About McKinley Franklin

Berre – Say My Name

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Berre is a 21-year-old singer and songwriter who lives near Brussels. At a rapid pace, he’s amassing a huge following with his covers of well-known and lesser-known songs. He’s sharing intense and gripping interpretations via Instagram and TikTok, with a soulful voice and a raw timbre unique for his age. Audiences around the world are appreciating his efforts, and that’s just scratching the surface. Today, Berre is releasing his debut single “Say My Name”—listen HERE.

Berre says about “Say My Name,” “After a breakup, you have lots of questions left and you long for honest answers to each one. Despite all those difficulties, the only thing you want to hear from that one person is they love you, even if that’s a lie.”

The original TikTok teser of “Say My Name” that Berre posted earlier this spring has received over 3.8 million views and 608 thousand likes.

Berre’s cover of Freya Ridings’ “Lost Without You,” recorded in a DIY manner with some friends, racked up more than 1 million streams (and still counting). A phenomenal result, especially since his TikTok upload of the same song had already collected a massive number of likes and views. Berre got noticed by a national radio station and performed his cover “Lost Without You” live on Belgian radio for the first time. A great warmup for what’s to come with his new single “Say My Name,” out now.

Stay tuned for more to come from Berre this year.

Berre artist press photos via Republic Records Media for use by 360 Magazine

SAFE – PARADISE

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Today, rapper, singer, songwriter and producer SAFE shares his new single “Paradise” (Bando Recordings/RCA Records). Over a minimal beat, SAFE’s angelic falsetto delicately sings “nothing I would ever trade for you, your love is paradise.” Produced by Jahnei Clarke, listen to the new single HERE.

SAFE stated the following about the new track, “This song is about deserving a love that is true and from the soul – a love that embraces our spirit and makes us feel like we’re in paradise.”

Earlier this year, SAFE released the first installment of his new EP Get Home SAFE (Part 1) which features Kaash Paige on “By My Side” and Kiana Ledé on “Contagious.” The 8-track EP unlocks a unique sonic space, creating a delicate balance of contemporary R&B and hip hop. He received praise from NPR, Billboard, Teen Vogue and Uproxx , receiving comparisons to Drake and Brent Faiyaz. Listen to Get Home SAFE (Part 1) HERE.

About SAFE:

In 2016, the then 18-year-old SAFE became Toronto’s secret weapon, working closely with Drake and Oliver El-Khatib. SAFE came up through the Halal Gang collective, consisting of Mustafa The Poet, Puffy L’z and Smoke Dawg. On June 30, 2018 Smoke Dawg was killed, sending the city into a state of shocked mourning. “He was the voice of the streets,” mentioned SAFE in an interview with Vice. After the tragic loss, SAFE took some time to himself and relocated to New York. Since then, the city of Toronto has been waiting to hear what’s next. In 2019, he released “Paid In Full” featuring Playboi Carti. Pitchfork reviewed the single, stating “his light and buttery melody shines over the gloomy instrumental.” Additionally, SAFE was a writer, producer and vocalist in Polo G’s platinum selling album Hall Of Fame and Hall Of Fame 2.0. Now in 2022, SAFE is looking to elevate. The impact he made in Toronto back in 2016 still remains and he is looking to spread that impact to the rest of the world.

Ballet Hispánico Summer Program

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Ballet Hispánico School of Dance announces that registration is now open for a week-long summer professional development program for dance teachers, July 11-15, 2022. The program is $525 for in-person attendees and $435 for virtual attendees, with discounts available for School of Dance partner organizations, including NDEO and NASD members. The registration deadline is Friday, June 10, 2022. For more information and to register, visit HERE.

The Ballet Hispánico professional development program is an opportunity for dance teachers to immerse themselves amongst fellow educators, share teaching practices, and further their teaching artistry. With daily class and student observation, theory is seen in practice and discussed. All educators are welcome, from seasoned faculty to new teachers, community dance practitioners, dance education undergraduates/graduates, dance studio owners, and K-12 teachers.

Course Highlights:

Observe in-person and/or virtual class offerings at Ballet Hispánico headquarters, led by seasoned School of Dance faculty addressing varied age groups and dance genres.
Discuss and reflect on class observations and presentations with an emphasis on application for each teacher’s individual practice.
Examine Early Childhood curricular bridging points and other developmental benchmarks for instruction.
Engage with Ballet Hispánico pedagogy and curricular design through the lens of culture and repertory.
Interact with tools for social-emotional learning and addressing the diverse student-learner.
Challenge narratives of collective dance histories and dance archives
Identify cultura and other teaching identities, and their implications for pedagogical practices.
Receive a Certificate of Completion.

2022 Guest Faculty and Sessions:

Yebel Gallegos – Visiting Assistant Professor of Dance at Bard College, multi-faceted dance artist from El Paso, Texas, played an important role in the founding of Cressida Danza Contemporanea also helped in the creation and implementation of the Festival Yucatan Escenica, an international contemporary dance festival, former dancer, company teacher, rehearsal director, and academic coordinator for the Conservatorio de Danza de Yucate, recently concluded a six-year tenure working full time with the Ririe-Woodbury Dance Company, BFA in dance, both from the University of Texas at Austin and from the Escuela Profesional de Danza de Mazatlen, directed by Delfos Dance Company, MFA from the University of Washington in Seattle.

Elisa de la Rosa – daughter of migrant farmworkers, and granddaughter to Mexican immigrant grandparents; a first generation college graduate is originally from a small border town in Texas, Assistant Professor of Dance at Texas Woman’s University (TWU), choreographer, performer, dance educator, and the founding artistic director of De La Rosa Dance Company, Artistic Director of the TWU Dance International Dance Company, was a dance educator for 14 years in middle and high school Texas dance programs, has designed professional development for dance educators in various school districts and presented to Aldine, Denton, Edinburg, and La Joya Independent School Districts, integrated the Dance and Digital Media Communications Curriculum into her instruction and was awarded a $3,500 grant for technology by The Texas Cultural Trust, BA in Dance with Secondary Teacher Certification from Texas Woman’s University, and an MFA in Dance from Montclair State University.

Gregory Youdan – has performed with the NY Baroque Dance Company, Sokolow Theatre/Dance and Heidi Latsky Dance, where he now serves as a board member, Currently, visiting research scholar at Brown University and adjunct lecturer at Lehman College, Westheimer Fellow through Mark Morris Dance Group’s Dance for PD program and is a teaching artist in their Dance for PD en Espanola, a 2021 National Association for Latino Arts and Cultures Advocacy Fellow and 2021 Latin Impact Honoree, serves on the development committee for the International Association for Dance Medicine and Science (IADMS), the research committee for the National Organization for Arts in Health (NOAH), and the advisory council for Dance Data Project, a member of the Latinx Dance Educators Alliance.

Dr. Afdaniels Mabingo – a Ugandan dance researcher, scholar, performer, educator, Afro-optimist and co-founder of AFRIKA SPEAKS, holds Ph.D. in Dance Studies from the University of Auckland, recipient of the prestigious Fulbright scholarship, Mabingo also holds an MA in Dance Education from New York University, and an MA in Performing Arts and a BA in Dance degree, both from Makerere University in Uganda, has taught at Makerere University in Uganda, New York University, the University of Auckland in New Zealand, and Edna Manley College of the Visual and Performing Arts in Jamaica, has also guest lectured at Columbia University and Princeton University, his research sits at the intersection of decolonization, interculturalism, postcolonialism, dance pedagogy and African philosophy, latest book titled Ubuntu as Dance Pedagogy: Individuality, Community, and Inclusion in Teaching and Learning of Indigenous Dances in Uganda, received scholarships and awards that included: Fulbright Junior Staff Development Scholarship, Fulbright Scholar in Residence (deferred), the University of Auckland Doctoral Scholarship, Makerere University Staff Development Scholarship, George Payne award for outstanding academic leadership and excellence at NYU, and the best overall Humanities student award at the 48thst-49th graduation at Makerere University, has taught dance schools and community settings in the U.S., Australia, South Sudan, Germany, Uganda, and New Zealand, has presented keynotes, delivered paper presentation, and facilitated dance workshops for conference gatherings such as daCi-WDA, NDEO, CORD, WAAE, and WDA,&#a0;has also staged choreographies and performed in New York City, Adelaide in Australia, Rwanda, Auckland in New Zealand, and Uganda;

Testimonials

“This is my first Professional Development experience, and I have been blown away!” – Margaret
“This week has been a work for the mind.” – Lynette
“I can now provide my students with tools that I didn’t have in my own dancing.” – Dandara

About Ballet Hispánico

Ballet Hispánico has been the leading voice intersecting artistic excellence and advocacy and is now the largest Latinx cultural organization in the United States and one of America’s Cultural Treasures. Ballet Hispánico brings communities together to celebrate and explore Latino cultures through innovative dance productions, transformative dance training, and enduring community engagement experiences.

National Medal of Arts recipient Tina Ramirez founded Ballet Hispánico in 1970, at the height of the post-war civil rights movements. From its inception Ballet Hispánico focused on providing a haven for Black and Brown Latinx youth and families seeking artistic place and cultural sanctuary. By providing the space for Latinx dance and dancers to flourish, Ballet Hispánico uplifted marginalized emerging and working artists, which combined with the training, authenticity of voice, and power of representation, fueled the organization’s roots and trajectory. In 2009, Ballet Hispánico welcomed Eduardo Vilaro as its Artistic Director, ushering in a new era by inserting fresh energy to the company’s founding values and leading Ballet Hispánico into an artistically vibrant future. Today, Ballet Hispánico’s New York City headquarters house a School of Dance and state-of-the-art dance studios for its programs and the arts community. From its grassroots origins as a dance school and community-based performing arts troupe, for fifty years Ballet Hispánico has stood as a catalyst for social change.

Ballet Hispánico provides the physical home and cultural heart for Latinx dance in the United States. Ballet Hispánico has developed a robust public presence across its three main programs: its Company, School of Dance, and Community Arts Partnerships.

Through its exemplary artistry, distinguished training program, and deep-rooted community engagement efforts Ballet Hispánico champions and amplifies underrepresented voices in the field. For fifty years Ballet Hispánico has provided a place of honor for the omitted, overlooked, and oppressed. As it looks to the next fifty years and beyond, Ballet Hispánico seeks to empower, and give agency to, the Latinx experience and those individuals within it.

Polestar Electric Fastback Upgrades

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Polestar cars recently announced design updates, range estimates and pricing for the 2023 Polestar 2 all-electric fastback. Pricing for the updated Polestar 2 Long range Single motor will start at $53,950, or $48,950.

Thanks to software improvements, Polestar anticipates a vehicle range increase for the dual-motor Polestar 2 of approximately 11 miles compared to the current model, expected to reach a preliminary estimated 260-mile US EPA range.

Additionally, the updated model adds a number of new features in a nod to the Polestar design ethos of continual improvement.

Equipment upgrades to the award-winning Polestar 2 include an upgraded heat pump designed for better cold-weather performance, new design options across the interior and exterior of the car, and a more advanced air quality sensor.

The most notable tech improvement is a software update to the mechanical heat pump, which is available as part of the Plus Pack. Thanks to the software changes, the heat pump is designed to now deliver range improvements in a wider range of temperatures, from 20 degrees Fahrenheit (-7degrees Celsius) to 77 degrees Fahrenheit (25 degrees Celsius). Within that temperature range, the heat pump helps increase real-world driving range by approximately 10% beyond that of the standard model. A future Over-the-Air (OTA) update will upgrade existing Polestar 2 cars equipped with the heat pump, free of charge.

New design touches for 2023 are two exterior colors and one new interior option, inspired by the Polestar 1 electric performance hybrid. Outside, Polestar 2 adopts the same “Space” metallic black color previously offered on the Polestar 1, and a new “Jupiter” metallic shade. “Magnesium” is now the standard, cost-free exterior color. Both the standard 19-inch and optional 20-inch wheels have striking new designs.

Inside, a newly ventilated Nappa leather option is available in a light grey “Zinc” color, which is paired with new Light Ash wood trim. The leather is sourced from a new supplier, Bridge of Weir, known for their sustainability and animal welfare credentials, and a quality grade only found elsewhere in bespoke luxury and supercar cabins. Thanks to strong customer demand, Polestar has also developed a removable mesh sunshade for vehicles with the panoramic glass roof. Cars fitted with the Plus Pack now include an advanced cabin air filter helping improve cabin air, and new air quality sensor and app will allow drivers to see a breakdown of the air circulating outside of the vehicle, including pollen types. This includes a list-type visualization on the vehicle center screen.

Additional to the Performance Pack for 2023 is a performance software upgrade. The upgrade adds 68 horsepower and 15 lb-ft of torque to the car. The Performance Pack is only available for dual-motor variant. The software will also be available to purchase as a separate software upgrade–for both existing and future dual-motorcars, with and without the Performance Pack. More information regarding timing and pricing will be announced later this year.

With deliveries beginning in September, the single-motor 2023 Polestar 2 Long range Single motor is priced at $53,950 before any federal, provincial, territorial, or utility rebates. The 2023 Polestar 2 Long range Dual motor is priced from $58,950. Both variants qualify for the $5,000 federal electric rebate, as well as numerous provincial and territorial incentives, such as $8,000 in Quebec and $3,000 in British Columbia.

The latest changes build on the regular enhancements that are sent via Over-the-Air (OTA) updates to all Polestar 2 owners. Many major updates have already been sent OTA to vehicles, delivering around 100 upgrades such as increased range, satellite radio, an eco climate setting and charging improvements.

Customers can learn more about the 2023 Polestar 2 at polestar.com and configure and order their own HERE.

2023 Polestar 2 images of electric car via Matt Rhodes (Extension PR) for use by 360 Magazine

USC Annenberg Inclusion Initiative

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As Mental Health Awareness Month kicks off, news and stories about mental health may seem to saturate media outlets. Yet a new report reveals that in top movies, mental health is rarely in the spotlight.

The study, entitled “Mental Health Conditions Across 200 Popular Films” is the second report on mental health in popular media from Professor Stacy L. Smith and the USC Annenberg Inclusion Initiative. The report is supported by the American Foundation for Suicide Prevention and NYT best-selling author, purpose coach, host of the top health and wellness podcast “On Purpose,” and former monk, Jay Shetty. The study provides an update on the prevalence and portrayal of mental health conditions in popular films by examining the 100 top-grossing films of 2019 and comparing the findings to those from the initiative’s report on popular movies from 2016.

Of the 4,502 speaking or named characters across the top films of 2019, 1.5% were depicted with a mental health condition. There has been little change over time, as 1.7% of characters in the most popular films of 2016 had a mental health condition. As a point of contrast, 21% of U.S. adults experience mental illness, according to national population research studies, such as the U.S. National Comorbidity Survey.

“Stories can provide a window into different worlds and experiences, but the results of this study demonstrate that mental health is rarely a focal point in popular film,” said Smith. “With the growing need for mental health care in the U.S., and the ongoing concern about well-being, storytellers and creatives are missing critical opportunities to educate audiences.”

More than half of the films included in the study from 2019 didn’t feature even one character with a mental health condition, and thirty percent had only one character with a mental health condition. A total of seven different mental health conditions appeared across the sample. Those included: addiction, anxiety/PTSD, depression/mood disorders, suicide, significant disturbances in thinking, cognitive impairment, and obsessive-compulsive disorder. There were more depictions of anxiety/PTSD in 2019 than in 2016, while portrayals of cognitive impairment and spectrum disorders declined. The remaining mental health conditions remained consistent with 2016.

More than half (59.2%) of characters with a mental health condition in the most popular films of 2019 were male while 40.8% were female. Three-quarters of the characters with a mental health condition across the films of 2019 were White, while only 16 characters were from underrepresented racial/ethnic groups. Only two characters with a mental health condition were LGBTQ, and 42.3% had a disability. The picture of mental health conditions in popular film remains one of predominantly white, male, straight, and able-bodied characters.

“The portrayal of mental health in film has a powerful role to play especially during this period of global mental health crisis,” said Christine Yu Moutier, chief medical officer at the American Foundation for Suicide Prevention. “Entertainment educates the public, whether it’s with intention or not. And because humans are deeply wired for social connection and imitation, contagion can occur with detrimental effects or with positive impact. Portrayals can not only destigmatize and stop perpetuating dangerous tropes about people who live with mental health conditions, but they can also have the potential to deepen mental health literacy and inspire hope. All people have mental health, and now more than ever, Americans are hungry for information and resources to allow us to not only cope, but to flourish, and to support others’ mental health.”

The study also explored the portrayal and context in which mental health conditions are depicted. Nearly three-quarters of characters with mental health conditions experienced some form of disparagement in the film — either verbally or nonverbally expressed by the character themselves or another character. While disparagement could be general and not connected to a diagnosis, 45.1% of characters with mental health conditions faced derisions specifically about their mental health. More than 40% of characters with a mental health condition were the object of jokes or humor related to their mental health, an increase from 2016 (22%).

“The confluence of these contextual factors means that when mental health is presented in film, it is often stigmatized or demeaned,” said Smith. “For audiences, the nature of mental health portrayals may heighten the possibility of negative effects when it comes to real-world outcomes.”

Characters with mental health conditions were also linked with violence in several ways. More than half of characters with a mental health condition were perpetrators of violence (63.4%), a significant increase from 2016 (46%). Additionally, nearly two-thirds (66.2%) of characters with mental health conditions were victims of violence. Finally, more than one-third (38%) of the characters with mental health conditions died at some point in the film, including by homicide or suicide. Over half (59.3%) of the characters with a mental health condition who perished did so by violent means. Nearly one-quarter (22.2%) of the characters with mental health conditions who died did so by suicide.

Less than one-third (29.6%) of characters with a mental health condition were shown in therapy, including individual appointments, group therapy, addiction, support, and inpatient care. Only 12.7% of characters with mental health conditions utilized medication or other treatments. Films in 2019 showed more characters receiving both therapy and medication or other treatment compared to 2016.

With solution in mind, the initiative brought Purpose Coach, NYT best-selling author, and “On Purpose” podcast host Jay Shetty into the fold as Chief Well-Being Advisor. In this role, he will serve as a resource to the program and entertainment industry at large on issues of mental health and wellbeing, strategizing new ways to approach the subject matter on-screen and on sets, to work towards positive change.

“I am thrilled to be joining Dr. Smith and the USC Annenberg Inclusion Initiative as the Chief Well-Being Advisor,” said Jay Shetty. “It has always been my passion to bridge the gap between mental health and entertainment. The access that the initiative has to further explore these important matters on-screen and on sets and make real systemic change within the industry is what excites me the most.”

The study also provides a core solution for depicting mental health in popular entertainment. Building on the Mental Health Media Guide, the study offers a blueprint for a mental health policy that can be adopted by production companies, studios, and other groups. This policy outlines ways that creative talent, executives, and those overseeing production can tell authentic stories, provide opportunities to nurture mental health for those working in production, and provide audiences with more information on mental health.

The report is the latest from the Annenberg Inclusion Initiative and can be found online here.

May Top Stories

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Inching further towards the mid-way point of the year, 2022 has been full of a surplus of notable events. From the continuing Russian invasion of Ukraine to Judge Ketanji Brown Jackson’s confirmation upon the Supreme Court, let’s evaluate the top stories of May 2022.

New Mexico Endures Wildfires

Two Hermits Peak/Calf Canyon fires reportedly united, impacting Northern New Mexico. Firefighters worked to contain the blaze, but the force of the combined fire swiftly surpassed professionals forecasting. No one has been hurt or killed by the fires, but two deaths did occur from a previous wildfire during the month of April.

Mississippi Mudbug Festival Shooting

Several gunmen opened fire at the Mudbug Festival in Jackson, Mississippi leaving one person killed and five injured. The individual that was killed is presumed to be one of the shooters, shot in response to the shooting by law enforcement.

Regarding the tragedy, Hinds County Sheriff Tyree Jones stated the following, “It’s very devastating and very tragic, […] This is what’s to be considered a very family-oriented event, where families come to enjoy entertainment and food. You have individuals with no regards for the lives and safety of those attending the event. I think that is a very cowardly and selfish act to involve so many innocent people that are here to have fun and enjoy themselves.”

Nancy Pelosi Visits Kyiv, Ukraine

Speaker of the House Nancy Pelosi paid Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy a visit, which was entirely unannounced. Pelosi is the highest ranked US official to have visited the country since the Russia’s invasion in February.

Leading an official congressional delegation at the country’s capital in Kyiv, Pelosi aimed to carry the message that the US stands with Ukraine. Pelosi pronounced, ““We are visiting you to say thank you for your fight for freedom, that we’re on a frontier for freedom and that your fight is a fight for everyone. And so our commitment is to be there for you until the fight is done.”

Tennessee Halts Executions

Following a missed protocol procedure leading to the lethal injection of Oscar Smith, Tennessee Governor Bill Lee has stopped all executions through the end of the year. Reportedly, the state had tested their lethal injection drugs for potency and sterility, but not endotoxins, which breaches procedure.

The Met Gala

The Met Gala returned to its conventional pattern of being held on the first Monday of May at the Metropolitan Museum of Art in New York City. Renowned as the most prestigious night in fashion, the extravaganza followed the theme of “In America: An Anthology of Fashion,” which came after 2021’s “In America: A Lexicon Of Fashion.”

Built as a charity event to raise funds for the Met’s Costume Institute, the gala is a staple for fashion lovers around the world. The event is renowned for its esteemed guestlist of fashion moguls, celebrities and artists. Attendees for the night included the likes of Blake Lively, Normani and Billie Eilish wearing designers such as Gucci, Versace and Chanel.

CNBC Sustainable Future w/ Matt Damon and Gary White

Tania Bryer chats with Matt Damon and Gary White about their nonprofit organization, Water.org, in a special CNBC interview. Water.org aims to provide access to water and sanitation to those who need it. Tania chats with both Matt and Gary about their brand-new book The Worth of Water: Our Story of Chasing Solutions to the World’s Greatest Challenge, and the influences behind the piece.

Supreme Court Leaked Decision Chooses to Overturn Abortion Rights

May 2, POLITICO published the first draft majority opinion of the Supreme Court that reveals a reversal of the monumental Roe v. Wade 1973 decision. Overturning the landmark ruling would place verdicts about abortion into the hands of state representatives. A decision involving the court has never been exposed while a case in still unresolved, especially one of such magnitude.

Regarding the judgment to override the original Roe v. Wade decision, Justice Samuel Alito stated the following in the leaked draft, “Roe was egregiously wrong from the start. Its reasoning was exceptionally weak, and the decision has had damaging consequences. And far from bringing about a national settlement of the abortion issue, Roe and Casey have enflamed debate and deepened division.”

European Union Plans Russian Oil Ban

European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen announced a potential ban on oil from Russia to increase pressure on the country amidst their invasion of Ukraine. European Union (EU) countries have arranged preparations to veto Russian coal imports, as the United States, Canada, United Kingdom and Australia have already expelled Russian imports.

Dave Chappelle Harassed During Hollywood Bowl

A man ran up on stage towards Dave Chappelle while he was performing a comedy routine at the Hollywood Bowl in Los Angeles. The man, named Isaiah Lee, was charged with a felony assault with a deadly weapon. Lee had a fake gun that would expel a knife blade but did not harm Chappelle.

Lionsgate Announces Hunger Games Prequel Movie

The Ballad of Songbirds and Snakes, a Hunger Games prequel novel, is set to obtain its own brand-new film debuting on the big screen on November 17, 2023. The story follows the story of President Coriolanus Snow in his younger years prior to becoming such a staple in the modern narrative.

Amber Heard Testifies in Defamation Trial

The defamation suit between Johnny Depp and Amber Heard began on April 11 and continued prominently into the month of May. Approaching the fourth week of the trial, the jury heard from Depp regarding his recollection of their marriage, and on May 4 Heard began her own testimony. The case is set to be concluded on May 19.

Animal-to-Human Heart Transplant Revelation

In January of 2022, David Bennett, 57, underwent a final resort surgery to save his life through use of a pig’s organ. Bennett underwent a heart transplant and was doing well for about two months following the procedure, until he suddenly passed away. Now, University of Maryland doctors have found that within the pig heart there was viral DNA carrying porcine cytomegalovirus. It is uncertain if the virus contributed to the death of Bennett, but this finding raises ongoing questions about animal-to-human transplants.

Kevin Samuels Passes Away

57-year-old YouTuber Kevin Samuels has passed away due to unknown reasons. He was reportedly found unresponsive in his Atlanta apartment on May 5. Samuels was known more his conservative relationship advice approach.

Rihanna and A$AP Rocky Tease Potential Engagement

A$AP Rocky released the music video for his track “D.M.B.,” which portrays the love story between himself and superstar Rihanna. At the end of the video, Rocky sports a grill that says, “Marry me?” with Rihanna, too, wearing a matching grill that states out, “I do.”

The video broke the internet, with everyone and their mother speculating a possible engagement between the two. It has not been confirmed, nor denied, that Rihanna and Rocky are engaged, but the duo is expecting their first child together.

Menstrual Pain May Prevent Many Women From Working, Spain

Half of women experience painful periods at least once every six months. Some of the symptoms they may have are nausea, fainting, and vomiting. The country’s policymakers will implement a three-day sick leave for severe menstrual pain, which affects most women who experience their period. According to a scientific study, 84.1% of women report have very considerable menstrual pain, which can prevent them from carrying out their activities and therefore they could be absent from work.

Mercedes-Benz India has Launched the New Generation Mercedes-Benz C-Class

On May 10, 2022, one of the most anticipated releases of Mercedes-Benz was launched. The German car manufacturer
has launched the new C-Class in three different versions: The C 200 with petrol engine is priced at $71,089.26 (Rs 55 lakh – Indian Currency) meanwhile, the C 220d and 330d with diesel engine are priced at 72,390 $.64 (Rs 56 lakh) and $78,854.09 (Rs 61 lakh), respectively. Mercedes-Benz claimed that it received more than 1,000 pre-launch reservations for the fifth-generation C-Class.

Lacrosse Team Files Racial Discrimination Claim by Sheriff’s Deputies

There is huge outrage over a traffic stop in Georgia. Last month, US authorities searched and detained a bus carrying the Lacrosse team belonging to Delaware State University, a historically black institution. The team specifically complains about racial profiling by sheriff’s deputies. On the contrary, the agents maintain the version that they stopped the driver for driving in the wrong lane. But after the bus stopped, officers searched the students’ belongings for any type of drug-like chemical. Instead, the team maintains that those searches were conducted on racial grounds.

Student Saniya Craft recorded parts of the trip on her device, thinking it would be part of her blog about her lacrosse team. However, she did not expect that she would end up storing evidence of what she believes to be racial profiling by sheriff’s deputies. Authorities consider it appropriate to open a federal investigation into the incident that occurred to the Delaware State University lacrosse team in Georgia.

Obama vs Monkey

According to Fox News affiliate in Detroit, Michigan school assignment uses picture of former President Barack Obama, comparing him to monkeys.

Rupaul’s Dragcon

May 13, 14 and 15 were jam-packed with Rupaul’s Drag Race fun at the Los Angeles Convention Center. Rupaul’s Dragcon is a convention-like event held annually to celebrate the queens of the franchise, as well as time to indulge in the rich queer culture created by the phenomenon.

Arriving amongst the Pretty Little Thing pink carpet, fans cheered on beloved queens from the franchise as they sashayed away. Amongst attendees included OG Drag Race royalty Latrice Royale and Manila Luzon, to crowned queens from recent seasons like Symone and Willow Pill.

At the event, guests were invited to meet queens at their booths for a purchase of merch. Surrounded amongst the booths, too, included vendors from other renowned LGBTQ+ businesses and allies. Exclusively filmed at the event was TS Madison’s all-new show coming to WOW Presents Plus, Bring Back My Girls. Recent season queens met up to discuss their time on the show in a reunion-style format.

Other experiences at Dragcon included panels where fans got to hear from some of their most beloved fans, like the All-Stars 7 all-winners panel to honor the latest season. Performances were given amongst the House of Love main stage, including DJ sets by Rupaul themselves, Alaska singing tracks from her latest album and two thirds of the beloved UK Frock Destroyers.

Rihanna Gives Birth to Baby Boy

Rihanna reportedly gave birth first to her first child with A$AP Rocky on May 13. The arrival of the baby boy has not been confirmed by both parents yet.

MÅNESKIN Performs on The Tonight Show

Celebrating the release of their latest song “SUPERMODEL,” produced by Max Martin, MÅNESKIN took to The Tonight Show starring Jimmy Fallon to perform the hit. Watch HERE. Their LOUD KIDS WORLD TOUR is set to commence this fall, with a range of performances across North America.

Pete Davidson Leaves Saturday Night Live

After an eight-year run with the popular late-night comedy show Saturday Night Live (SNL), Pete Davidson departures from the phenomenon. A staple amongst the cast, during Davidson’s final goodbye, he recalled how SNL founder Lorne Michaels didn’t think he was the best fir for the show, but decided to take a risk on him.

About his time with SNL, Davidson stated the following, “I never imagined this would be my life, […] I was just a skinny kid that no one knew which race I was. And now everyone knows I’m White because I became hugely successful while barely showing up to work. Look at me now, I’m aging like an old banana.”

Robb Elementary School Shooting

Tuesday May 24 Salvador Ramos, 18, opened fire at Robb Elementary School in Uvalde, Texas, killing 21. Of the killed, 19 were children and two teachers. Ramos, too, shot his grandmother before attacking the elementary school.

The killer took to Instagram two days prior to the massacre posting images of his two AR-15-style rifles. He communicated with a 15-year-old girl from Germany during the course of the attack. He told the girl how he had “just shot my grandma in her head,” and was planning to “go shoot up a(n) elementary school rn (right now).”

May 24 will be remembered as the deadliest mass shooting since Sandy Hook, the 30th so far this year. The shooting makes number 213 for the country in 2022, which surpasses the number of days so far in the year. The travesty has sparked up continuing debates about gun violence in the United States.

Kate Moss testifies in aid of Johnny Depp, Virginia

The trial of the actor and his ex, Amber Head, has become a social phenomenon and the most watched on American television. Lies, abuse and millionaire agreements, the key points of the trial of Johnny Depp and Amber Heard. Heard tearfully recounts alleged domestic abuse in her relationship with Johnny Depp.

Johnny Depp and Kate Moss had a strong romance during the 1990s that ended when he met Vanessa Paradis, who would later become his wife and mother of his children. Despite the breakup, the friendship remains and the British model has decided to testify in favor of the actor in the defamation trial that Depp maintains against his second wife, Amber Heard. The trial began last Monday, April 11, and is expected to last around six weeks. Depp demands 50 million dollars as compensation for damages, while Heard has filed a counterclaim, asking for double: 100 million dollars.

Volodymyr Zelensky Made a Special Appearance at Cannes Film Festival 2022, France

The 75th edition of the Cannes International Film Festival kicked off on the night of the 17th on the French Riviera, thus recovering its usual dates after the pandemic. The Cannes Festival is the most famous film, mediatic and cultural event in the world, being an essential meeting for film producing countries since its creation in 1946.

In its inaugural gala, the Grand Theater Lumière stood up after the irruption of the president of Ukraine, Volodymyr Zelensky, who, quoting Chaplin, asked that the cinema not be silent: “We need a new Chaplin who shows that, in our time, the cinema is not silent” in the face of Russia’s attack on Ukraine.With an emotional appearance, he returned to vindicate the feeling of the public by referring to the film “The Great Dictator“. The dictators are free, only they, but they enslave the people. Let’s fight now to make what was promised come true. Let us all fight to liberate the world. Tear down national barriers, eliminate ambition, hatred and intolerance”, declared the president, drawing applause from all those present.

Actor Ray Liotta Passes Away

At the age of 67, Ray Liotta suddenly passed away. While filming the upcoming film Dangerous Waters, Liotta died in his hotel room in the Dominican Republic beside his fiancé Jacy Nittolo.

Camila Cabello shines in her performance during the opening ceremony of the 2022 Champions Final, France

The Cuban sang the greatest hits of her musical career live in Paris. Camila Cabello will always remember her performance at the opening ceremony of the 2022 Champions League final at Saint-Denis stadium. Not only because she managed to shine live with a staging full of Latin sounds and bright colors, but also because it was one of the most disorganized matches that be remembered.

The Cuban singer made a great presentation in which she highlighted her colorful dance team and her commitment to the great successes that have marked her musical career. With her own stamp, she was singing the notes of Señorita, Havana, Bam bam to close with Don’t go yet.

Mona Lisa painting attacked in the Louvre Museum, France

The attack on Leonardo Da Vinci‘s most famous work has had no regrettable consequences, since the painting is luckily protected by glass. The author was a man dressed as an old woman who threw a cake at the Mona Lisa painting. Museum Police have acted quickly, immediately expelling the attacker of the museum.

The visitor who tried to damage the painting was in a wheelchair, with his face painted and covered with a hat and a blanket so as not to be identified. His goal was to take a photo of the work between the cord and the painting, a space reserved for disabled people. Click HERE to watch the video.

Milagro Tequila: Marga-Refunds

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This year tax refunds are expected to take record time to reach Americans, leaving many taxpayers distressed by the long wait. In response, Milagro Tequila is launching “Marga-Refunds” – its first-ever campaign delivering real time $10 CashApp payments to consumers who purchase Milagro Tequila this Cinco de Mayo. Available nationwide, these refunds are supplied by a newly minted division of Milagro Tequila – the Internal Reposado Service – whose singular mission is to make the wait for that refund a bit less taxing.

“Tax season is never easy and finding out that there could be a longer wait to receive your refund is not the kind of news you want to celebrate,” said Jill Palais, Senior Brand Manager of Milagro Tequila. “But – we don’t want delayed refunds to drag down Cinco de Mayo celebrations, so we’re stepping in with a small gesture to help people celebrate with the freshest, brightest 100% agave tequila – without worrying about their wallets.”

As tax season comes to a close, far more than 10 million returns have been submitted, with over 7 million of them currently backlogged, creating potential delays*. Even prompt tax filing can result in delayed refunds, many of which will not arrive in time for Cinco de Mayo. Whether you filed early, right on time or needed an extension, Milagro Tequila believes everyone deserves to celebrate on Cinco. That’s why they will deliver real-time payments to those who apply for the “Marga-Refund” program this year – quickly putting money into the pockets of tequila-lovers on this celebratory day.

On May 5, 2022, 21+ fans can get their $10 refund by visiting HERE, filling out the brief online form, and uploading a photo of the receipt for a Milagro bottle purchase. Milagro Tequila comes in six expressions – Milagro Silver, Milagro Reposado and Milagro Añejo, in addition to Milagro Select Silver, Milagro Select Reposado and Milagro Select Añejo. This offer is valid for one day only and expires at 12:01am May 6th, 2022. Before submitting for a refund, carefully review the Official Rules including all eligibility requirements which can be found HERE. For more on Milagro Tequila, their website and Instagram.

Milagro Tequila is a 100% blue agave tequila renowned for its bright, fresh agave flavor and exceptional smoothness. Milagro offers a six-variant range of tequilas to mix into your favorite cocktails or to be enjoyed straight. Milagro Tequila was founded on the premise that where the sun shines, love reigns, and tequila pours, and this year, the brand is giving fans just that through a refund program you can count on.

Spread the word of your Cinco de Mayo “Marga-Refund” from Milagro on social using #MilagroTequila #MilagroMargaRefunds.

About Milagro

Milagro Tequila was founded in 1998 by two wide-eyed college friends who decided to take a chance and create a tequila that better reflected the bright, vibrant, artistic world of Mexico City. Milagro Tequila is truly defined by its ultimate balance of fresh agave taste and exquisite smoothness and is made from 100% blue agave from the Jalisco Highlands, where the finest, sweetest blue agave in the world is cultivated. The Milagro Tequila range consists of six expressions, with Silver, Reposado and Añejo expressions of the core and Select ranges respectively. A bright, fresh agave-forward liquid by design, all Milagro Tequila expressions undergo a 36-hour slow roasting process in traditional brick ovens to extract all the nuances of the precious agave flavor before being double-distilled. Milagro Tequila’s unique double-distillation process uses both pot and column stills to retain the vibrant, mouth-watering flavors of agave and impart an exquisite smoothness that compares to the finest white spirits in the world.

Milagro Select is an ultra-premium tequila devoted to the essential elements of the liquid, and confidently lets them shine. With the individual barrel numbers printed on each label, you know you’re getting award-winning liquid; Milagro Select Silver was awarded a Gold Medal in the 2020 San Francisco World Spirits Competition. The premium bottle is inspired by the clean lines and work of renowned Mexican architect and engineer, Luis Barragán and the sophistication of modern-day Mexico. All Milagro Select expressions have an ABV of 40%alc./vol. and range from SRP $39.99 to SRP $54.99.

About William Grant & Sons

William Grant & Sons Holdings Ltd. is an independent family-owned distiller headquartered in the United Kingdom and founded by William Grant in 1887. Today, the global premium spirits company is run by the fifth generation of his family and distills some of the world’s leading brands of Scotch whisky, including Glenfiddich®, The Balvenie® range of handcrafted single malts and the world’s third largest blended Scotch, Grant’s®, as well as other iconic spirits brands such as Hendrick’s® Gin, Sailor Jerry® Spiced Rum, Tullamore D.E.W.® Irish Whiskey, Monkey Shoulder® Blended Malt Scotch Whisky and Drambuie® Scotch Liqueur.

William Grant & Sons has been honored as “Distiller of the Year” by the prestigious International Wine & Spirit Competition and International Spirits Challenge 13 times over the past 14 years, including the most recent award in 2020.

Founded in 1964, William Grant & Sons USA is a wholly-owned subsidiary of William Grant & Sons, Ltd. And features one of the fastest growing spirits portfolios in the US with brands including Glenfiddich, The Balvenie, Hendrick’s Gin, Sailor Jerry Spiced Rum, Tullamore D.E.W. Irish Whiskey, Drambuie, Milagro Tequila, Fistful of Bourbon, Grant’s, Hudson Whiskey, Gibson’s Finest, Monkey Shoulder, Clan MacGregor, Reyka Vodka, Solerno Blood Orange Liqueur, Flor de Caña Rum, The Knot and Raynal French Brandy. For more information on the company and its brands, please visit HERE.

Hot Wheels Film

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Mattel, Inc. and Warner Bros. Pictures announced today that J.J. Abrams’ Bad Robot will produce Hot Wheels, a live-action motion picture featuring the iconic and timeless toy racing car. The high-throttle action film will bring to life this beloved, multi-generational franchise and showcase some of the world’s hottest and sleekest cars, monster trucks and motorcycles.

“As the global leader in car culture, Hot Wheels has been igniting the challenger spirit in auto enthusiasts for generations,” said Robbie Brenner, Executive Producer, Mattel Films. “Fans of all ages are now in for the ride of their lives with the incredible talent of J.J. Abrams’ Bad Robot joining us alongside Warner Bros. Pictures to transform Hot Wheels’ legendary IP into a thrilling story for the big screen.”

A 54-year-old brand more relevant today than ever before, Hot Wheels is the world’s leading vehicle franchise, and represents and unites all segments of car culture. Hot Wheels has proven its influence in automotive and pop culture with legendary design and epic performance through unparalleled collaborations with global leaders in automotive, streetwear, fashion, luxury, entertainment, gaming, action sports and motorsports. Hot Wheels is the #1 selling toy in the world with over 8 billion vehicles sold.

“Growing up, Hot Wheels were more than just cars, they were vehicles for our imaginations,” said Peter Dodd, Vice President of Production, Warner Bros. Pictures. “Today, we at Warner Bros. are thrilled to bring that imagination to the big screen with Robbie Brenner and the creative team at Mattel along with the ingenious minds of J.J. Abrams, Hannah Minghella and the team at Bad Robot.”

Hannah Minghella, Bad Robot’s President of Motion Pictures said, “Before Hot Wheels became the global household name it is today, it was the dream of Elliot Handler, who was inventing and building toy cars at home in his Southern California garage. It’s that imagination, passion, and risk-taking spirit that we want to capture in this film.”

Kevin McKeon, Vice President and Andrew Scannell, Creative Executive will lead the project for Mattel Films. Peter Dodd will lead the project for Warner Bros. Pictures. Hannah Minghella and Jon Cohen will oversee for Bad Robot.

Mattel Films and Warner Bros. Pictures are also partners on the upcoming motion picture, Barbie. Now in principal photography, the film is targeted for theatrical release in 2023. The film stars and is produced by Margot Robbie under her Lucky Chap Entertainment banner and directed by Greta Gerwig who also wrote the screenplay alongside her husband Noah Baumbach.

In addition to Hot Wheels, the Mattel Films development slate features movies based on American Girl, Barbie, Barney, Magic 8 Ball, Major Matt Mason, Masters of the Universe, Polly Pocket, Rock ‘Em Sock ‘Em Robots, Thomas & Friends, UNO, View Master, and Wishbone. Mattel Films is also developing Christmas Balloon, based on all-new IP.

Bad Robot has a wide slate of film projects in development under its Warner Bros. Discovery deal, including SUPERMAN written by Ta-Nehisi Coates, ZATANNA written by Emerald Fennell and the animated adaptation of Dr. Seuss’ iconic children’s book OH, THE PLACES YOU’LL GO with Jon Chu attached to direct. Bad Robot is currently in post-production on the female driven thriller LOU starring Allison Janney and Jurnee Smollett for Netflix as well as working with director Matt Shakman on a new STAR TREK movie for Paramount.

*Source: The NPD Group/Retail Tracking Service, U.S. Dollar Sales, January-December 2021

About Mattel

Mattel is a leading global toy company and owner of one of the strongest catalogs of children’s and family entertainment franchises in the world. We create innovative products and experiences that inspire, entertain, and develop children through play. We engage consumers through our portfolio of iconic brands, including Barbie®, Hot Wheels®, Fisher-Price®, American Girl®, Thomas & Friends®, UNO®, Masters of the Universe®, Monster High® and MEGA®, as well as other popular intellectual properties that we own or license in partnership with global entertainment companies. Our offerings include film and television content, gaming and digital experiences, music, and live events. We operate in 35 locations and our products are available in more than 150 countries in collaboration with the world’s leading retail and ecommerce companies. Since its founding in 1945, Mattel is proud to be a trusted partner in empowering children to explore the wonder of childhood and reach their full potential. Visit online HERE.

About Bad Robot

Bad Robot was formed by filmmaker J.J. Abrams in 2001. The company has produced television series such as ALIAS, LOST, FRINGE, PERSON OF INTEREST, WESTWORLD, CASTLE ROCK, LOVECRAFT COUNTRY, and LISEY’S STORY, feature films such as SUPER 8, STAR WARS: THE FORCE AWAKENS and THE RISE OF SKYWALKER, the STAR TREK, MISSION: IMPOSSIBLE and CLOVERFIELD franchises. In addition to its live action film and television slate, Bad Robot is also producing animated projects including a reimagining of Dr. Seuss’s iconic, OH, THE PLACES YOU’LL GO, Charlie Mackesy’s beloved illustrated book, THE BOY, THE MOLE, THE FOX AND THE HORSE, and the upcoming animated series, BATMAN: CAPED CRUSADER. In 2018, the company launched Loud Robot, an artist-friendly independent music label, and Bad Robot Games, a new entity dedicated to developing large and indie-scale original games for mobile, PC and console. The company recently launched an audio division, Bad Robot Audio, in partnership with Spotify to develop and produce original scripted and non-scripted audio content. Bad Robot is based in Santa Monica and can be followed on Twitter and Instagram.

BLESSD Makes History

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BLESSD, the artist who is breaking all paradigms in Colombia and who is taking over the planet with his music, continues to share all his hits on his first world tour Tendencia Global Tour.

One more dream that comes true for the young artist will remain archived in his memory and in that of the more than twelve thousand attendees who sang together with him at the first edition of the Motherland Festival in Puerto Rico, where Blessd was the only international artist invited.

Blessd is the artist who never stops surprising the world, yesterday his music made history, all his hits sounded in an indelible presentation for the young superstar of the urban genre. Yesterday his musical project in reggaeton was validated again, 40 minutes of stage show became minutes of gratitude and respect from a young man who always dreamed of being there, with the greatest, 10 songs including “Global Trend” sounded like never before in the territory that originated the birth of a genre that evolved to stay.

From the beginning of him as a singer Blessd. He always highlighted the importance of Puerto Rico for the genre and now feeling that support and backing from the people and its artists represents something very important for his musical project. Without a doubt, receiving that affection becomes an important reference to continue with your project.

The tour will continue, Tendencia Global Tour unlocks new territories: Ecuador on April 29 in Quito, the United States with 21 dates and Europe.

Along with the announcement of the tour, the release of his new single entitled “TENDENCIA GLOBAL” was announced, a song that gives his name to his tour and that currently has more than 26 million views on the YouTube platform.

This new album features world-class artists such as Puerto Rican Myke Towers and Colombian producer Ovy On The Drums. In this way it is clear that Blessd does not stop and wants to conquer the whole world.

Finally, it should be added that this tour will continue to strengthen and evolve the project of the young artist Blessd , a new step that will continue to consolidate him as an artist and his team, hand in hand with his label JM World Music / Warner Music / Cigol and his management team, Just One CLiiCK headed by its CEO Dr. Velásquez.

About BLESSD

Talent and charisma make Antioquia reggaeton singer Stiven Mesa Londoño one of the future promises of this genre. With only 22 years and a career that began recently, this singer, better known in the field as BLESSD, not only improvises and sings, but also composes his songs.

His talent, simplicity, charisma, capacity for improvisation and love for music, have him as one of the paisa promises in the world of reggaeton, a genre that has given him the opportunity to perform in different cities and events in the country, where his followers they sing the songs and motivate him to continue fighting for his dreams and one day fill stadiums in different parts of the world.

Guaynaa – LIGHT Nightclub

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April 22, Puerto Rican artist Guaynaa brought the energy to LIGHT Nightclub, located at Mandalay Bay Resort and Casino in Las Vegas, with an electrifying performance for guests at the popular Las Vegas club.

Guaynaa arrived at LIGHT around 1:30 a.m. after spending time in the recording studio with DJ and record producer Steve Aoki as seen on their Instagram accounts earlier that evening. Taking the stage for an exhilarating show at 2 a.m., he interacted and took photos with fans in the crowd while performing his top hits like “ReBoTa,” “Diplomatico,” his viral TikTok song “Se Te Nota” and more.

During his performance, Guaynaa made two lucky bachelorettes’ night even better by bringing the ladies on stage to celebrate and dance together. After his energized performance, Guaynaa took pictures with fans before departing for the night.

About LIGHT Nightclub

LIGHT Nightclub at Mandalay Bay merges cutting-edge creativity with popular music to produce unrivaled nightlife entertainment. LIGHT’s DJs play a wide range of popular hits with performers and dancers immersing the crowd in a pulsating party vibe set to state-of-the-art sound and lighting. LIGHT’s massive LED screens captivate the senses and a world-class sound system keeps energy high. LIGHT is open Friday and Saturday nights from 10:30 p.m. to 4 a.m. More information is available on the website and on Facebook, Instagram and Twitter.