Governor Ron DeSantis has signed into law House Bill 3, which aims to restrict minors’ access to social media platforms. The bill, passed with overwhelming support in the House and Senate, prohibits children under the age of 16 from opening social media accounts without parental consent. The governor signed the bill in Jacksonville on Monday, emphasizing its role in safeguarding minors from online predators.

The legislation, supported by a vote of 109 to 4 in the House, is designed to strike a balance between restricting children’s access to social media while allowing parental discretion for older teens. Speaking on the importance of the new law, Governor DeSantis highlighted the potential dangers posed by online predators and the need for proactive measures to protect children.

Initially, Governor DeSantis vetoed an earlier version of the bill, citing concerns over its strict age restrictions and limited parental freedoms. The revised bill now allows parents to grant consent for 14- and 15-year-olds to have social media accounts, while prohibiting children under 14 from opening accounts altogether.

Under the new law, social media companies are required to utilize third-party age verification systems to confirm the age of users creating new accounts. Additionally, accounts reasonably believed to belong to individuals under 16 must be terminated by these platforms.

Despite its passage, Democratic Orlando State Representative Anna Eskamani has expressed skepticism regarding the effectiveness and constitutionality of the law. Eskamani believes that similar laws in other states have faced legal challenges and suggests that Florida may incur significant expenses defending the legislation in court. She argues that the bill’s enforcement may not effectively prevent minors from accessing social media platforms, potentially leading to continued risks.

Critics like Eskamani question whether the bill’s aggressive approach adequately addresses the complexities of regulating minors’ online activities while respecting their First Amendment rights. Despite these concerns, the law is set to take effect in January, barring any successful legal challenges.

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The latest chapter does not look good For Rap Mogul Sean “Diddy” Combs. On Monday, Combs’ homes in Los Angeles and Miami were raided by Homeland Security agents . Though the specifics for the raids remain unclear, they are both connected to a federal sex trafficking investigation.

The Department of Homeland Security released a statement: “Earlier today, Homeland Security Investigations (HSI) New York executed law enforcement actions as part of an ongoing investigation, with assistance from HSI Los Angeles, HSI Miami, and our local law enforcement partners. We will provide further information as it becomes available.’’

One raid happened in Combs’ extravagant Holmby Hills neighborhood in Los Angeles. The location is linked with Combs’ Bad Boy Films production company. Federal agents were also dispatched at a house in Miami associated with Combs.

Of course, it didn’t take long for social media users to respond with a few in particular imaginings of  what the raid may have been like:

Another online personality, @lmakemyownsh*t, couldn’t wait to use a Denzel Washington clip to crack a joke about Combs allegedly not being home during the raid.

Evidence that agents could be looking for include computers, flash drives and other proof connecting Combs to his alleged crimes. The artist is facing four lawsuits accusing him of sexual abuse in the last few months—though he has denied every single one. One X user, @yamscasino, thinks the accused will surrender on his own terms:

Last year, Combs’ was sued by ex-girlfriend Casandra Ventura—also known as Cassie—whom he dated from 2005 to 2018. She alleged years of violent beatings and sexual abuse, with the lawsuit being settled the next day. Another X user, @jrxdcruz, hopes this is the the end for Diddy:

Attorney Douglas Wigdor, who represents Cassie Ventura and an anonymous plaintiff referred to as Jane Doe, said Monday: “We will always support law enforcement when it seeks to prosecute those that have violated the law.

“Hopefully, this is the beginning of a process that will hold Mr. Combs responsible for his depraved conduct.”

Another social user insisted that Katt Williams’ prediction of the truth in 2024 may be coming to light by asking: “Did Katt Williams Predict the Raid on Diddy Back in January? Are More Raids Coming?”

As the winter chill begins to thaw, anime enthusiasts brace themselves for the thrilling conclusions of some of Crunchyroll’s most beloved titles. With anticipation running high, fans are gearing up to bid farewell to captivating storylines and beloved characters as the season draws to a close.

Among the eagerly awaited finales are some of Crunchyroll’s biggest hits, including “Solo Leveling,” “MASHLE: MAGIC AND MUSCLES The Divine Visionary Candidate Exam Arc,” “Shangri-La Frontier,” and “Metallic Rouge,” among others.

Here’s a reminder to mark your calendars and catch up on the following finales:

Wednesday, March 27:
– “Classroom of the Elite Season 3”
– “Cherry Magic! Thirty Years of Virginity Can Make You a Wizard?!”

Thursday, March 28:
– “Brave Bang Bravern!”

Friday, March 29:
– “The Wrong Way to Use Healing Magic”

Saturday, March 30:
– “Solo Leveling”
– “MASHLE: MAGIC AND MUSCLES The Divine Visionary Candidate Exam Arc”

Sunday, March 31:
– “Shangri-La Frontier”

Wednesday, April 3:
– “Metallic Rouge”

With these pivotal dates fast approaching, now is the perfect time to catch up on any missed episodes and immerse yourself in the thrilling conclusions of these captivating narratives.

For those eager to explore more of Crunchyroll’s Winter 2024 lineup, a plethora of anime adventures await. Be sure to check out the full lineup on Crunchyroll’s platform and consult the release calendar to stay up to date with the latest releases and announcements.

As the curtain falls on another remarkable anime season, fans can look forward to the promise of new adventures and unforgettable moments in the seasons to come. Until then, let the countdown to the epic finales begin!

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In an effort to highlight the people who are leading colleges and universities across the nation, we at Watch The Yard reached out to University of West Georgia and did an interview with Tyler McCoy 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. McCoy, who is working on his Masters of Education in College Student Affairs, is from Hartsville, SC.

We interviewed Tyler McCoy, 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?

Being the SGA president has taught me a ton, especially about how crucial it is to build solid relationships and stay flexible. The real game-changer came from my first sit-down with the University of West Georgia President, Dr. Brendan Kelly, and Vice President of Student Affairs, Dr. André Fortune. They dropped this wisdom on me: don’t get too hung up on your way of fixing things. Instead, focus on getting the problem solved, period. It hit me that clinging too tightly to my ideas could actually push me away from the help and insights others could offer. Learning to roll with the punches and keep my eyes on the prize, not just my solution has made all the difference in how I lead and tackle challenges.

Lastly, Dr. Kelly also taught me that if you’re unsure about the process, then you’ll most likely end up unsatisfied with the results. As SGA president, it’s easy to want to accomplish so much in such a short period of time that we forget to hammer out the specifics of how to actually get there. One of the best things you can do to set your team up for success is to establish clear processes. From there, it’s all about training and staying consistent. This approach not only ensures smoother operations but also fosters a sense of reliability and trust within the team.

What made you decide to attend University of West Georgia?

Choosing UWG was a no-brainer for me, especially when I found out about their Master’s in Education: College Student Affairs program. The deal was sweet – a guaranteed graduate assistantship that not only took care of my tuition but also threw in a competitive monthly stipend for my extra expenses. Finding a program like that isn’t easy at other schools but what really clinched it for me was the chance to keep learning while getting some real job experience under my belt. So, in the end, it all came down to getting a great deal with affordability and snagging that priceless hands-on learning experience.

How has University of West Georgia molded you into the person you are today?

UWG has been way more than just a place to study. It’s given me this awesome chance to put everything I’ve learned in class into real action, testing theories and ideas in the real world. But it’s not just about the academics; UWG has pushed me to dive deep into who I am and what really keeps me ticking. I’ve discovered my passions, what drives me, and how I can make a difference every single day. It’s like UWG handed me the keys to understanding myself better while giving me the tools to shape my 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?

This year, our administration set out to tackle some significant challenges and revitalize the Student Government Association (SGA) at our university. We recognized early on that to make a real difference, we needed to focus on boosting student representation and enhancing the relevance of the SGA within the student body and the wider community.

We were facing a situation where student engagement was at an all-time low. In the 2023-24 SGA Spring Election, 8 out of 9 races were uncontested, no one ran for the position of SGA Executive Vice President, and out of approximately 12,000 students, only 146 cast their votes. Furthermore, for about 28 Senate seats, which are supposed to represent 1 per 400 students, only 3 students were elected. It was clear we had our work cut out for us.

Moreover, the SGA was struggling with its visibility and relevance. Many students were unaware of what the SGA was, what it did, or who their representatives were. Our signature programs were few and far between, and we weren’t providing the value to students that we aimed to.

To address these issues, we embarked on a series of initiatives aimed at reviving the student body’s voice through their elected representatives. Our efforts have paid off, with a 200% increase in representation within SGA. We’ve also ramped up our relevance through various events and initiatives that have connected us with hundreds of UWG students. These efforts were designed not only to engage students in the electoral process but also to make them feel a part of the decision-making process at our institution.

Our administration views these achievements as just the beginning. We’re setting the stage for an era where student voices aren’t just heard but are at the forefront of driving our institution forward. By increasing both the representation and relevance of the SGA, we believe we’re making strides toward improving our school and the surrounding community, ensuring that the SGA becomes a cornerstone of student life and a catalyst for positive change.

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

Our SGA administration, in concert with the University of West Georgia (UWG), is deeply committed to the mental health and overall wellness of our students. Recognizing the critical importance of holistic health, UWG has taken a pioneering step in Georgia’s higher education landscape by appointing a Chief Wellness Officer (CWO), Bridgette Stewart. This innovative move is part of UWG’s strategic plan to integrate and prioritize comprehensive wellness across the campus community.

Adding to these efforts, UWG has recently launched a groundbreaking initiative—the UWG Mobile Unit. The UWG Mobile Unit provides students with hands-on experiential learning opportunities and prioritizes the well-being of the greater Carrollton and neighboring communities.

The introduction of the Chief Wellness Officer and the rollout of the UWG Mobile Unit are clear indicators of our school’s commitment to advancing mental health and wellness. These initiatives demonstrate our belief that a healthy mind is just as important as a healthy body and that taking care of our mental health is paramount for academic and personal success.

What does leadership mean to you?

To me, leadership, especially within the context of the Student Government Association, embodies several critical roles. First, it’s about being a visionary—someone who can look beyond the present challenges and see the potential for what our organization and our student body can become. It’s about setting a direction that not only inspires but also mobilizes others towards a shared future.

Second, leadership means being a human developer. This involves recognizing and nurturing the potential in others, empowering them to grow and succeed. It’s about creating opportunities for learning, development, and progress, not just for myself but for all members of our community. By fostering a supportive environment, I aim to help others realize their capabilities and achieve their personal and professional goals.

Lastly, leadership is about being a thought partner. This means engaging in meaningful dialogue, encouraging diverse perspectives, and collaboratively finding solutions to complex issues. It’s about being open to feedback and new ideas, fostering a culture of innovation and continuous improvement.

In essence, leadership within the SGA is a multifaceted role that requires vision, empowerment, and collaboration. It’s about guiding our student body towards a brighter future, developing the next generation of leaders, and working together to make a meaningful impact.

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

In today’s digital era, schools face the unique challenge of representing themselves online in ways that truly resonate with their audience. The key to success lies in schools first understanding their core identity—who they are as institutions and who they serve. This foundational knowledge enables them to strategically navigate the vast digital landscape.

Once a school has a firm grasp on its identity and target audience, it should actively seek out and engage in digital spaces and trends that align with the interests of its community. This could mean leveraging popular social media platforms, embracing emerging technologies like virtual and augmented reality for immersive learning experiences, or utilizing data analytics to tailor content and communications more effectively.

Moreover, schools should focus on storytelling, showcasing real-life success stories of their students and alumni to highlight the institution’s impact. Authenticity in these narratives will be key to capturing attention and building a strong online presence.

Engagement is another crucial aspect. Schools need to foster a sense of community online, just as they do on campus. This means not only pushing out content but also inviting interaction through comments, forums, and live events. By doing so, schools can create a vibrant, interactive online ecosystem that mirrors the dynamic nature of their campuses.

Finally, schools must stay adaptable, continuously evaluating their digital strategies and being ready to pivot based on feedback and changing digital trends. The digital world evolves rapidly, and staying relevant means being agile, innovative, and always focused on the needs and interests of the school community.

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

Watch The Yard holds a crucial role for Black students and the broader college culture, primarily through its powerful impact on representation. The platform is the epitome of the principle that seeing is believing—”if you can see it, then you can be it.” By showcasing the richness and vibrancy of Black college culture, from Greek life to academic achievements and cultural events, Watch The Yard serves as a beacon of inspiration and empowerment.

It’s more than just a website or social media presence; it’s a celebration of Black excellence and a testament to the diversity of achievements within the community. This visibility is essential. It provides not only a sense of pride but also a tangible connection to role models and pathways to success that may otherwise seem out of reach. For many students, seeing others who look like them achieving greatness breaks down barriers and fuels their ambition.

Moreover, Watch The Yard plays a pivotal role in creating and nurturing a network of future leaders. By highlighting achievements and providing a space for stories from across the spectrum of Black college life, it plants seeds of possibility in the minds of its viewers. These seeds have the potential to grow into a vast, interconnected network of individuals who lead, innovate, and uplift their communities.

In essence, Watch The Yard is important because it mirrors the best of Black culture and academia, providing a platform for stories of success and resilience that resonate deeply with Black students and beyond. It encourages a sense of belonging and motivation, underlining the message that their dreams are valid and achievable.

What do you plan on doing after graduation?

After I toss my cap at graduation, my sights are set on climbing the ladder in higher education. I’ve got a pretty big dream: I want to be the head honcho at a university someday, a university president. It’s a hefty goal, but I’m all in. I see it as my chance to really make a difference, shape the future of education, and create a place where learning knows no bounds, innovation is the norm, and everyone feels like they belong. I plan to soak up every bit of experience I can get, learn from the best, and make connections that will help me along the way. I’m passionate about education and believe in its power to change lives, and I’m excited to start this journey.

We at Watch The Yard would like to commend Tyler McCoy for his work as the SGA president of University of West Georgia.

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Josephine Wright, a Black woman who spent her last days fighting developers to protect her family’s ancestral home in South Carolina has scored a posthumous victory against the company.

According to The Guardian, the family of Wright — who died in January at 94 — has reached a settlement preventing Bailey Point Investment from contacting them about purchasing the land.

The settlement acknowledges the Wright family — which includes her four children, 40 grandchildren and dozens of great- and great-great-grandchildren — as the legal owners of the Hilton Head Island property located in the middle of Bailey Point’s proposed 29-acre subdivision. A privacy fence is going up to separate the two.

Bailey Point was granted local authority in 2022 to construct a neighborhood of 147 residential units around Wright’s property. The construction firm approached Wright to purchase her land, but she refused.

The city would only give Bailey Point a certificate of conformity once the firm reached a deal with Wright, and in February 2023, the company filed a lawsuit alleging that her home encroached on its land.

Wright said the company used bullying, intimidation and harassing techniques against her after she declined to sell, including polluting her house and land and cutting her shrubs. She claimed they even attempted to bypass her by dealing with other relatives.

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Her story sparked a nationwide uproar and garnered support from celebrities, including Tyler Perry, who pledged to construct a new home for Wright on the land; Kyrie Irving, who donated $40,000; and Snoop Dogg, who gave $10,000. Other people contributed to a GoFundMe campaign that raised over $350,000.

Wright and her late husband, Samuel Wright Jr., moved from New York City to Hilton Head Island about 30 years ago in search of peace and tranquility, The Guardian reported. Wright Jr.’s family, who were Gullah Geechee, has long owned 1.8 acres of land on the island.

The Gullah Geechee people who lived on Hilton Head possessed most of the land after the Civil War. About 98% of people in Hilton Head were Black by 1880, compared to the 77% white population today. As of 2021, relatives of Gullah Geechees on Hilton Head Island held only 8% of the total residential acreage, down 70% from 1995.

Black homeowners on Hilton Head Island have long fought against the land’s ongoing gentrification and acquisition, which started in 1957 with the construction of a gated community of 5,200 acres containing four golf courses.

According to The Guardian, Wright’s family plans to use the recently established Josephine Wright Foundation to help others in similar circumstances.

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The much-anticipated Chinese-language series “Forget You Not,” a touching story about the complexities of human relationships and the passage of time, is set to make its exclusive Netflix debut. Rene Liu, an accomplished Taiwanese singer-actress known for her work in “Us and Them,” directs the series, which stars a superb cast including award-winning actress Hsieh Ying-xuan from “Wave Makers” and veteran actor Chin Han, who returns to Taiwanese drama after a significant break. In addition, the accomplished Wallace Huo from “Light the Night” will make a special appearance in the series.

Filmagic Pictures Co.’s “Forget You Not” is a beautiful narrative journey that explores the fleeting essence of life, the weight of memories, and the relationships of friendship and family. Liu, both writer and director, muses on the series, remarking, “This drama mimics the tapestry of life, diving into the events we face on a daily basis yet frequently choose to ignore. My aim is that viewers will find peace and resonance in this story as they face their own personal crossroads.”

The show follows Cheng Le-le (Hsieh Ying-xuan), a versatile lady who works as a stand-up comedian and a part-time convenience store cashier. Despite her seemingly mundane existence, Le-le harbours ambitions and goals for her future, only to be met with a series of obstacles. Amidst marital strife with her husband Zhang Kai (Wallace Huo), Le-le has familial challenges, particularly with her father (Chin Han), causing her to embark on a daring journey that reshapes her relationships with family, lover, and friends.

Liu, in her directorial debut for a series, expresses her enthusiasm, remarking, “It is a privilege to collaborate with such a talented ensemble of cast and crew in narrating a tale that resonates with the essence of ‘home,’ set against evocative and nostalgic backdrops. Our aim is for audiences to find familiarity and connection within the narrative.”

Golden Bell and Golden Horse awardee Hsieh Ying-xuan extended her gratitude for the opportunity to work alongside director Liu, describing the experience as rare and invaluable. “Liu’s profound understanding and empathy for actors, stemming from her illustrious acting career, are truly commendable. Her gentle guidance fosters an environment where we, as actors, can authentically explore our roles.” Wallace Huo echoes the sentiment, stating, “I am deeply honored to be a part of this series and thoroughly enjoyed collaborating with director Liu. Her meticulous attention to detail, unwavering standards, and distinct perspective render her an exceptional director.”

“Forget You Not” promises to enthrall spectators with its fascinating narrative tapestry that explores the depths of human emotions as well as the subtle interaction between life’s impermanence and enduring memories. As viewers embark on this transforming journey, they are encouraged to reflect on their relationships, the ephemeral nature of time, and the tremendous beauty found in life’s passing moments.

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In an effort to highlight the people who are leading colleges and universities across the nation, we at Watch The Yard reached out to Johnson C. Smith University and did an interview with Sydlie Fleurimond 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. Fleurimond, who is majoring in Political Science with a minor in Pre-Law, is from Hamden, CT. She is a proud Spring 2023 initiate of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc.

We interviewed Sydlie Fleurimond, and talked to her about her 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?

One of the most significant lessons I’ve learned is the essence of effective leadership. As the SGA president, I gained valuable insights into advocacy and representation, understanding the importance of voicing diverse student interests, championing positive campus changes, and negotiating with various stakeholders. This experience deepened my understanding of leadership dynamics, equipping me with the ability to drive positive change within the student community.

Moreover, it provided valuable insights that enhanced my skills in strategic planning, event organization, and problem-solving. Collaborating with administrators, faculty, and fellow students not only strengthened my ability to work in diverse teams but also contributed to establishing a network with potential for future pursuits.

What made you decide to attend Johnson C. Smith University for undergrad?

My decision to attend Johnson C. Smith for my undergraduate was rooted in the welcoming family-oriented atmosphere and the strong track and field program. Coming from Hamden, Connecticut, and being over eleven hours away, I sought a campus that would foster personal growth while providing a supportive environment, especially being far from home. The professors, staff, and faculty at JCSU genuinely care about students’ well-being and academic success, creating an environment that feels like a second home. Furthermore, as the only private HBCU in Charlotte, North Carolina, situated in a growing city, the expanding networking opportunities add another layer to the university’s appeal.

How has Johnson C. Smith University molded you into the person you are today?

Johnson C. Smith University has been instrumental in shaping the person I am today through its unwavering commitment to academic excellence, a supportive community, and diverse opportunities. The supportive community at JCSU has provided a nurturing space where I’ve built meaningful connections with peers, mentors, and faculty. These relationships have been invaluable in my personal and professional development, offering guidance, encouragement, and a sense of belonging. It has been a transformative force, shaping my character, instilling a sense of purpose, and preparing me to face the challenges of the world beyond academia.

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?

In my role as SGA president this year, I’ve spearheaded several impactful initiatives to enhance our school and the surrounding community. A notable project includes the launch of a mentorship program, forging meaningful connections between experienced students and incoming freshmen, facilitating a smoother transition into university life. Moreover, I’ve actively collaborated with establishments in the Biddleville area to create community service opportunities for students and my administration. Engaging in community service is a core belief, and I strongly advocate for the importance of giving back to our community. Through these initiatives, my goal is not only to improve our school environment but also to instill a sense of responsibility and community engagement among college students.

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

Under the Fleurimond-Mitchell Administration at Johnson C. Smith University, our commitment to addressing mental health is a comprehensive and multifaceted effort. We place a strong emphasis on recognizing the importance of mental well-being and have implemented various strategies to support our students. These initiatives encompass guiding them to counseling services, organizing awareness events to reduce stigma, offering peer support programs, and ensuring easy access to online resources. Our university hosts multiple organizations specifically focused on mental health, and we actively collaborate with health services to provide a holistic approach to student well-being. It is our priority to consistently provide insights into the specific programs and resources available, ensuring continuous support for the mental health of all students on campus.

What does leadership mean to you?

Leadership, to me, means having the ability to inspire and guide others toward a common goal. It involves setting a positive example through one’s actions, fostering a collaborative and inclusive environment, and empowering individuals to reach their full potential.

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

In the digital age, HBCU schools should continue positioning themselves with a focus on showcasing unique strengths and offerings in 2023/2024. This involves providing comprehensive information about academic programs, admission processes, and campus life. Active engagement on platforms like Instagram, Twitter, and LinkedIn is crucial to reach a broader audience, showcasing campus events, success stories, and community involvement. Utilizing video content, including virtual campus tours and live-streamed events, enhances the online experience. Additionally, investing in targeted digital marketing strategies can boost visibility and attract prospective students.

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

Watch The Yard significantly influences the experiences of Black students within college culture, nurturing a strong sense of community. This dedicated platform offers positive representation by spotlighting shared experiences, challenges, and successes, acting as a reflective mirror showcasing the diverse achievements, leadership, and cultural richness of Black students. The impact of Watch The Yard extends to encouraging young students to understand the significance of attending an HBCU. By emphasizing the empowerment and pride that Black colleges instill, the platform inspires individuals not only to excel academically but also to play active roles in their campus communities.

What do you plan on doing after graduation?

After completing my undergraduate studies at Johnson C. Smith University, my aspirations include further my academic journey by pursuing a law degree. I am committed to continuing my education and gaining the necessary skills to contribute meaningfully to the field of law.

We at Watch The Yard would like to commend Sydlie Fleurimond for her work as the SGA president of Johnson C. Smith University.

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