House Minority Leader Hakeem Jeffries, D-N.Y., met with Maryland Governor Wes Moore at the U.S. Capitol to discuss efforts to rebuild the Francis Scott Key Bridge in Baltimore despite opposition from House Republicans.

“This is not political,” Moore told theGrio. “This is not partisan. This is a patriotic responsibility.”

He added, “We have six individuals who we lost in Maryland, but how do we make sure we’re going to honor that?”

The Maryland governor met with the Jeffries on Thursday shortly following the House minority leader’s weekly press conference.

During the conference, Jeffries told theGrio that House Democrats have been leading efforts to make sure “we are able to provide the city of Baltimore, the people of Baltimore, and certainly the immigrant families who have experienced the loss of a loved one with the support that they need in this moment of great crisis.”

Moore told theGrio that he is “grateful” for the opportunity to speak with Jeffries and other members of Congress.

“We’re just continuing to share the importance of what the bridge means, not just in Maryland but what the bridge means to this country economically,” said Moore. “I’m grateful that the leader [Jeffries] has already been incredibly supportive of this work.”

Thursday’s meeting came after the Democratic Maryland congressional delegation, U.S. Reps. Kweisi Mfume, Jamie Raskin, Glenn Ivey, Steny Hoyer, John Sarbanes, and Dutch Ruppersberger took to the House floor to urge their Republican colleagues to back efforts to rebuild the bridge on Wednesday.

Former House Speaker Nancy Pelosi, D-Calif., who also took to the House floor with her Democratic colleagues, told theGrio on Thursday that it was vital for her to make a stand because she is a Baltimore native.

“I’m concerned about what happened to the bridge and what it means to our country and economy, to jobs and to the lives of the people there who lost their lives,” said Pelosi.

On March 26, around 1:30 a.m., Francis Scott Key Bridge collapsed when a massive cargo ship ran into one of the bridge’s support beams, causing the bridge to collapse into the Patapsco River. The tragedy claimed the lives of six migrant construction workers.

“There are tens of thousands of people whose work relied on the port … we have a port that is responsible for about $70 billion of economic activity not just in the state but to this country,” said Governor Moore.

Baltimore, he added, has the “largest port in the country for new cars and heavy trucks and agricultural supplies.”

Following the bridge collapse, President Joe Biden announced that his administration would spend $60 million in emergency relief funds on the bridge’s reconstruction.

However, some House Republicans have refused to support a bill providing additional funding. Some have gone as far as blaming the tragedy on diversity, equity, and inclusion.

U.S. Rep. Phil Lyman, R-Utah, tweeted a message with a headshot of Karenthia A. Barber, commissioner for the Port of Baltimore – and who happens to be a Black woman. The congressman wrote, “This is what happens when you have Governors who prioritize diversity over the wellbeing and security of citizens.”

Others joined Lyman in taking to social media to call Moore and Baltimore City Mayor Brandon Scott “DEI hires.”

Moore told theGrio that he has spent “no time” on addressing the attacks from the far-right but instead has made it a priority to “honor the families and bring them closure … and making sure we’re supporting the people that have been impacted.”

Despite some House Republicans’ refusal to back the Biden-Harris administration’s plan to rebuild Baltimore’s bridge, U.S. Rep. Jamaal Bowman, D-N.Y., told theGrio that he “has complete faith that Biden is going to get the money to Wes Moore somehow quickly.”

“Baltimore is going to get what it needs,” said Bowman. “The administration is going to make sure of that.”

Recommended Stories

Never miss a beat: Get our daily stories straight to your inbox with theGrio’s newsletter.

OWN: Oprah Winfrey Network has announced the highly anticipated return of its hit series, “Love & Marriage: Huntsville,” set to premiere on Saturday, May 4 at 8/7c. The fifth season promises to deliver drama, secrets, and unexpected twists as viewers delve into the lives of a group of longtime friends and frenemies in Huntsville, Alabama.

The series offers an intimate look at the lives of Melody Rodgers, Martell Holt, Maurice and Kimmi Scott, Marsau and LaTisha “Tisha” Scott, Stormi Steele and Courtney Beasley, Chris and Nell Fletcher, and introduces two new couples with surprising connections to the group. Additionally, Destiny Payton makes her highly anticipated return to the series, adding fuel to the already fiery dynamics.

In the upcoming season, viewers can expect a rollercoaster ride of emotions as secrets are uncovered and relationships are tested. Martell faces legal troubles, while Stormi and Courtney are entangled in an unexpected love triangle. Destiny’s return sparks confrontation as she faces her ex-boyfriend, now married to a former producer of the show. Meanwhile, LaTisha and Marsau grapple with the challenges of working with the family on Maurice and Kimmi’s new investment property.

As tensions rise, Melody takes the ladies on a tropical getaway in an attempt to mend their friendships, but the retreat brings buried conflicts to the surface, forcing everyone to confront their pasts.

Before the premiere of “Love & Marriage: Huntsville,” viewers can catch the season finale of “Love & Marriage: D.C.” airing on Saturday nights throughout April.

Hosted by executive producer Carlos King, the Reunion episodes promise to wrap up the season’s drama with Part One airing on April 13 at 9/8c, followed by Part Two on April 20 and Part Three on April 27 at 8/7c.”Love & Marriage: Huntsville” and “Love & Marriage: D.C.” are produced by Kingdom Reign Entertainment, with ITV America also serving as a producer for the Huntsville installment.

Executive producer Carlos King oversees both series, offering viewers a captivating glimpse into the complex world of modern relationships and their challenges.

About The Author

Related

Singer K. Michelle wants people to know that while she considers herself a Christian, she’s not going along with people who use the Bible as an argument against homosexuality.

In a Instagram clip posted by The Neighborhood Talk on April 10, the singer, who appears to be out at a restaurant with friends, is discussing the issue of homosexuality and sin in the Bible. And while it isn’t clear why that is the topic of conversation, the singer’s position on the subject is straightforward.

“I don’t believe that you’re not supposed to be gay,” she says in the clip. “People are supposed to be what they feel on the inside.”

K. Michelle left a comment on the post, writing that she doesn’t understand why God would forgive someone who murdered someone and not a person who chooses to love someone of the same sex.

“It’s ok for you to kill a person, but it ain’t ok for you to be gay?” she wrote. “You’re free to believe what you want that’s the beauty of life. I love the Lord and that’s who I worship. I don’t have a heaven or hell to put anyone in it’s not for me to judge.”

And as expected, her opinion started a heated debate in the comments. People came down on all sides, writing, “God loves everyone .. end of story,” “The Bible Is Right … Man and Woman is how God intended it to be. But I will say that no sin is bigger than the other …. God loves us all it’s sin that he hates, and “Girl stoppppp like rn. Just because you feel that way doesn’t mean that’s not the Lord’s message! Take it up with him,” reflect the way users came down on both sides of the issue.

But others thought we’ll never really know the right answer, like this commenter who wrote:

“Honestly this is one of those topics where everybody should just do what feels right in their heart.. we will never know the true answer just speculation & opinions. All I know is that it does say to love everyone & to not cast judgement so I try my best to apply that to life. Blessings to you 💜💜.”

And, of course, there were those who didn’t think we needed to hear what K. Michelle had to say at all.

“Some conversations should happen without cameras 🤷🏽‍♀️,” wrote another social media commentator.

What do you think? 

In an effort to highlight the people who are leading colleges and universities across the nation, we at Watch The Yard reached out to Elizabeth City State University and did an interview with Jay’Quahn Blackledge the 2023-2024 Student Government Association president.

The position of SGA president is a highly respected role and there is a special pride that one takes in being elected by their peers to lead. Blackledge, who is majoring in Psychology, is from Washington, NC. He is a proud Spring 2023 initiate of Phi Beta Sigma Fraternity, Inc.

We interviewed Blackledge, and talked to him about his position, goals, future and what it means to hold this type of leadership position in 2023-2024.

Read the full interview below.

What is the biggest thing you’ve learned as an SGA president so far?

As the SGA President at Elizabeth City State University, I have learned that building meaningful connections with faculty, staff, and students is essential for effective leadership. By building relationships on campus, with professors and administrators, I have been able to better understand the needs and concerns of the student body. Networking with other student government leaders from different institutions has taught me the importance of collaboration and learning from peers in similar positions. By exchanging ideas and best practices, my cabinet and I have been working to implement new initiatives and programs that benefit our university community. My biggest takeaway as SGA President is realizing that we all share a common goal of making ECSU a better place to live and learn for students. By navigating who we are as individuals in this ever changing world, we can work together towards creating a positive impact on campus and beyond, but it takes everyone using their voice to be the change that we seek.

What made you decide to attend Elizabeth City State University for undergrad?

I chose to attend Elizabeth City State University because it wasn’t too far from home and it’s a smaller campus so it would be easier to connect with the professors. With Elizabeth City State University being a smaller campus I knew they would actually care about me being successful and achieving my goals because they would see me more often and I would have the opportunity to build personal relationships with faculty and staff that I might not have been able to do if I went to a bigger University.

How has Elizabeth City State University molded you into the person you are today?

Since the very first day I walked on campus my freshman year the people have been loving and they accepted me with open arms. I was a very shy person and never liked to come out of my room, but the friends that I made brought me out of my shell and pushed me to get involved and enjoy my college experience. That’s when I met my mentor Jimmy Chambers who was the SGA President at the time and he said I should consider joining student government. I said why not and ever since my sophomore year I have been in SGA moving up the ladder to get where I am now as SGA President. Elizabeth City State University helped me learn who I was as a person and challenged me to do more and be better. If my freshman self saw where I am now, he would be amazed because I didn’t see this for myself when I first got to college. I can’t thank Elizabeth City State University enough for helping shape me into the man I am today and the leader I aspire to be in the future.

What specific initiatives have you headed up this year (or are planning) and how do you think they will improve the school and surrounding community?

My administration and I have been working to bring the student body together and get involved on campus. We wanted to bring something new to the students. That’s why we’ve planned SGA Week where students get to see us outside of our positions and build connections on a personal level. We’re also planning to do a Walk Through Town Hall where administrators gather and students can walk around and express their concerns personally without having to sit through a meeting. I have planned a meeting with Josh Stein who is running for NC Governor where he came and spoke to students about his campaign and the importance of voting. I’ve planned a meeting with the CIAA commissioner (which is the conference that houses our athletics teams) to introduce a more inclusive program to the conference that promotes work, advocacy and community involvement. My administration and I are trying our best to set a solid foundation for future administrations to follow and build upon for the advancement of Elizabeth City State University.

How is your SGA administration/school currently working on attending to the mental health of students?

Elizabeth City State University has incorporated Wellness Days throughout the school year where students get a break from classes and they can have the day to themselves to focus on their mental health and practice self care. Elizabeth City State University has also extended the hours of counseling services and student health services to be there for the needs of the student body.

What does leadership mean to you?

Leadership means embodying humility and being an active listener to the needs and concerns of both the student body and my cabinet members. You have to be able to take criticism and have thick skin when becoming a leader. I wouldn’t be half the leader I am if not for the support of my cabinet, Dayana Garza, Joshua Chavous, Briana Singletary, Tonea Williams, Lauren Twine, Noel Herron, Kayla Dixon and Devon Riddick all push me to do better and they keep me grounded so I don’t get overwhelmed. Leadership isn’t easy and it isn’t always fun, so you have to care about helping others and have a passion for people. My goal is to empower students to become leaders themselves and make a positive impact not only within our university but also in their communities beyond graduation.

We now live in a digital world, what do you think schools need to do to represent themselves online in 2023/2024?

Schools should utilize social media platforms like Instagram, Twitter and TikTok to showcase student achievements and events, as well as communicate with the school community in real-time. By investing in their online presence, schools can better connect with students and parents, and keep them informed about all the great things happening at the school. It is important to meet people where they are and prospective students are always on their phone so if you can promote yourself on the platforms that they are using then they are introduced to all that your institution has to offer because they can see all the good things you are doing without having to look too hard.

Why do you think Watch The Yard is important to Black students and college culture?

Watch The Yard is important to Black students and college culture because it provides a platform for showcasing the achievements, experiences, and perspectives of black students on campus. For many people like myself, Watch The Yard could be their first glimpse into what life is like at an HBCU or college in general. Watch The Yard gave me an idea of things I could look forward to once I got to college because it showed different aspects of college life. Watch The Yard fosters a sense of community and solidarity among black students by sharing stories that resonate with their own lived experiences and struggles and serves as a valuable resource for promoting visibility, representation, and empowerment within college communities.

What do you plan on doing after graduation?

My goal after graduation is to attend law school to obtain my degree and become a defense attorney.

We at Watch The Yard would like to commend Jay’Quahn Blackledge for his work as the SGA President of Elizabeth City State University.

Share this on Facebook and help us highlight Jay’Quahn Blackledge and Elizabeth City State University.

A star-studded ensemble cast is set to join Sofia Carson in the upcoming romantic comedy film “The Life List,” directed by Adam Brooks (“Definitely, Maybe,” “Imposters”) and based on the novel of the same name by Lori Nelson Spielman. The movie, produced by Liza Chasin for 3dot Productions, promises to captivate audiences with its heartwarming story of self-discovery, family secrets, and unexpected romance.

Joining Carson in the cast are José Zúñiga (“Griselda,” “Physical”), Jordi Mollà (“Aggro Dr1ft,” “Jack Ryan”), Dario Ladani Sanchez (“Dear Edward”), Federico Rodriquez (“American Rust,” “The Path”), Marianne Rendon (“In the Dark,” “Imposters”), Michael Rowland (“Animal Control”), Chelsea Frei (“Poker Face,” “Doll Face”), Luca Padovan (“You,” “The Boy and the Heron”), Rachel Zeiger-Haag (“Ex-Husbands,” “Monsterland”), Maria Jung (“Elsbeth,” “Paterno”), and Donnetta Lavinia Grays (“The Book of Henry,” “The Wrestler”).

The film follows the journey of Alex Rose, portrayed by Sofia Carson, whose life takes an unexpected turn when her mother tasks her with completing her childhood bucket list. As Alex embarks on this quest, she finds herself on a transformative journey filled with laughter, tears, and the unraveling of family secrets. Along the way, she also discovers the power of love and the importance of self-discovery.

“The Life List” is part of Liza Chasin’s creative partnership with Netflix, under her production banner, 3dot Productions. This collaboration has already seen the production of “Lonely Planet,” starring Laura Dern, Liam Hemsworth, and Diana Silvers, showcasing Chasin’s commitment to delivering compelling and diverse storytelling to audiences worldwide.

About The Author

Related

In an effort to highlight the people who are leading colleges and universities across the nation, we at Watch The Yard reached out to Middle Tennessee State University and did an interview with Michai Mosby the 2023-2024 Student Government Association president.

The position of SGA president is a highly respected role and there is a special pride that one takes in being elected by their peers to lead. Mosby, who is majoring in Public Relations, is from Memphis, TN. He is a proud Spring 2023 initiate of Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Inc.

We interviewed Michai Mosby, and talked to him about his position, goals, future and what it means to hold this type of leadership position in 2023-2024.

Read the full interview below.

What is the biggest thing you’ve learned as an SGA president so far?

As SGA president, the biggest lesson has been the responsibility of representing the student body with unwavering dedication and integrity. Every action and decision I make carries the weight of student voices, reinforcing the need to always prioritize their interests and concerns. Through this role, I’ve sharpened my ability to advocate effectively and ensure that every aspect of my leadership reflects the values and aspirations of the student community.

What made you decide to attend Middle Tennessee State University for undergrad?

I chose to attend MTSU for my undergraduate studies due to its reputation for offering endless opportunities for academic and personal growth. The supportive environment fostered by both students and faculty created a welcoming, family-like atmosphere that I knew would enhance my college experience.

How has Middle Tennessee State University molded you into the person you are today?

MTSU has played a pivotal role in shaping me into the person I am today by providing ample opportunities to develop my leadership skills and foster meaningful relationships. Through various initiatives and experiences, the school has equipped me with the tools and confidence needed to lead effectively and cultivate strong connections within diverse communities. These lessons extend far beyond the classroom, empowering me to navigate the complexities of the world with resilience.

What specific initiatives have you headed up this year (or are planning) and how do you think they will improve the school and surrounding community?

This year, I’ve spearheaded several initiatives aimed at enhancing both the school and surrounding community. First, I’ve championed the creation of additional committees to amplify student voices in decision-making processes, ensuring that diverse perspectives are considered. Secondly, the establishment of the President’s Roundtable fosters increased communication among organization leaders, increasing collaboration and partnerships across campus groups. Lastly, the introduction of a new channel for student input has empowered individuals to share innovative event ideas, enriching the campus experience and fostering a sense of ownership and pride within the community. Together, these initiatives aim to create a more inclusive, vibrant, and engaged environment for all students.

How is your SGA administration/school currently working on attending to the mental health of students?

Our SGA administration and school are prioritizing student mental health by amplifying existing resources, such as free counseling services available to all students. We’re actively promoting these resources through various channels to ensure students are aware of the support available and encouraging utilization without stigma. Additionally, we’re collaborating with mental health professionals to implement innovative programs and initiatives aimed at addressing mental health issues and fostering a culture of wellness and support on campus.

What does leadership mean to you?

Leadership, to me, embodies the responsibility of guiding others towards a common goal while fostering an environment of mutual respect and collaboration. It’s about inspiring individuals to reach their full potential and empowering them to contribute meaningfully to the collective success. Moreover, leadership entails taking pride in one’s actions, leading by example, and always striving to uphold integrity, empathy, and inclusivity in every endeavor.

We now live in a digital world, what do you think schools need to do to represent themselves online in 2023/2024?

In 2023/2024, schools must prioritize a comprehensive online presence to effectively represent themselves in the digital landscape. This entails investing in user-friendly websites and engaging social media platforms to showcase the institution’s unique offerings and values. Additionally, schools should leverage emerging technologies such as virtual tours and interactive content to provide prospective students with immersive experiences that reflect the campus culture and academic excellence.

Why do you think Watch The Yard is important to Black students and college culture?

Watch The Yard is crucial to Black students and college culture as it provides a digital platform for celebrating Black excellence, achievements, and cultural heritage. It serves as an international safe space, offering a sense of community and belonging for Black students worldwide while amplifying their voices and accomplishments. Through its diverse content and supportive network, Watch The Yard fosters empowerment, inspiration, and solidarity among Black college students, affirming their identities and contributions to academia and society.

What do you plan on doing after graduation?

After graduation, I plan to continue amplifying voices, potentially pursuing a career in politics to advocate for marginalized communities and effect systemic change. Additionally, I’m considering a position in higher education to mentor and guide young people in identifying their purpose, empowering them to realize their full potential and contribute positively to society.

We at Watch The Yard would like to commend Michai Mosby for his work as the SGA president of Middle Tennessee State University.

Share this on Facebook and help us highlight Michai Mosby and Middle Tennessee State University.

LISA (Lalisa Manobal), a globally renowned rapper, singer, dancer, and fashion icon, has signed a new deal with RCA RECORDS and her company LLOUD CO. LISA will release new solo songs through RCA Records, giving her complete ownership of all of her works. This artist-centric method demonstrates LISA’s ability to push the frontiers of music.

LISA expressed her excitement about joining forces with RCA Records, “I’m super excited to be joining the RCA family and I am confident they are the best team to create a bigger movement in my solo career. Looking forward to showing the world everything we have been preparing.”

Peter Edge, Chairman & CEO of RCA Records, and John Fleckenstein, COO of RCA Records, expressed their delight in working with LISA and LLOUD CO., describing her as a multi-talented worldwide powerhouse. Their emotions were repeated as they welcomed her team to the RCA Records family.

“We are incredibly proud to partner with LISA and LLOUD CO.! LISA is a multidimensional talent and an irrefutable global force. We are thrilled to welcome her and her team to the RCA Records family. ”

LISA’s collaboration with RCA Records solidifies her status as a global influencer, as the label is home to a roster of distinguished artists from around the world, including A$AP ROCKY, BECKY G, DOJA CAT, FOO FIGHTERS, JUSTIN TIMBERLAKE, KAYTRANADA, LATTO, MARK RONSON, P!NK, STEVE LACY, SZA, TEMS, TATE MCRAE, VICTORIA MONET, WIZKID, among others.

LISA, best known as a member of BLACKPINK, a K-pop superstar, is embarking on a new artistic and economic venture with RCA Records and LLOUD CO. LISA founded LLOUD CO. earlier this year intending to express her own artistic and entertainment vision.

Beyond her BLACKPINK success, LISA has broken global records as a solo artist. With the release of “LALISA” in 2021, she became South Korea’s first female artist to sell approximately 750,000 copies in its first week. “LALISA” and “MONEY” both debuted in the top ten of the BILLBOARD GLOBAL 200 chart, with “Money” becoming the longest-charting single by a solo female K-pop singer on the BILLBOARD HOT 100 in the United States and the United Kingdom Singles Chart. In 2023, LISA set three Guinness World Records, including the most Instagram followers for a K-pop artist, which now stands at 102 million.

LISA will appear in the third season of the hit HBO Original series THE WHITE LOTUS, in addition to her musical career. Her on-screen debut is noteworthy, as the filming is taking place in her native Thailand.

In addition to her vocal abilities and dynamic stage presence, LISA is renowned for her distinct fashion sense and trendsetting style, cementing her place as a key figure in the worldwide fashion scene. She has collaborated extensively and is currently the face of BULGARI.

About The Author

Related