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The Drama Surrounding Michael Jackson’s Estate Explained

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Roughly 15 years after the death of pop icon Michael Jackson, his estate remains a contentious issue for his surviving family members. And Jackson’s 93-year-old mother, Katherine Jackson, is at the center of it all.

Things came to a head over the reported $600 million sale of half of Jackson’s music assets to Sony Music Group. According to Billboard, which broke the news of the sale, his music assets are valued at over $1.2 billion — meaning the stakes are incredibly high for everyone involved.

All of the Legal Drama

While there’s plenty we could wade into, the current drama mostly centers around the sale of Jackson’s music assets and who’s responsible for the mountain of legal fees that piled up during Katherine’s legal fight.

Earlier this month, Rolling Stone Magazine reported that Katherine Jackson was asking a Los Angeles court to hold Michael Jackson’s estate executors in contempt of court for closing the music deal without her consent while waiting on a separate appeal about the transaction. Mrs. Jackson has an officer role in the Jackson estate and a reported 10 percent stake.

“On March 1st, I sent a letter to the estate asking for an explanation as to the authority they used as the basis in order to proceed with the transaction, and – crickets. No response at all. We don’t understand why this is not contempt of this court,” said her lawyer, Robert E. Allen.

A Judge reportedly sided with the estate executors, arguing that they did not need permission to move ahead with the transaction. However, the appeal remains pending, meaning future legal action against the estate over the sale is still on the table.

As we mentioned, her legal fees are also a source of tension.

In court, her attorneys reiterated her request to have the estate pay her hefty fees — arguing that the estate was punishing her for opposing the sale. “We wouldn’t be here if the estate wasn’t trying to punish Katherine Jackson for having the temerity to challenge their actions. If this was attorney fees incurred to handle some other piece of litigation, they would have paid,” her lawyer Adam Pines with Glaser Weil argued in court, according to Rolling Stone. “What the executors appear to be doing is waiting for Mrs. Jackson to pass away.”

Family Feud

Enter the family drama.

According to court documents obtained by TMZ, Michael Jackson’s son, Blanket Jackson, took legal action against his grandmother to block her from obtaining money from the estate to pay her legal fees.

The Root reached out to the Jackson estate but has not independently confirmed TMZ’s reporting.

According to TMZ, Blanket doesn’t want the estate to pay for Katherine Jackson’s continued legal actions against the estate — namely her appeal of the sale of Jackson’s music assets.

So far, it doesn’t appear as if a ruling has been made on Katherine Jackson’s legal fees — but the drama in this case doesn’t appear to be dying down anytime soon.

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AOC and Bernie Sanders Unveil Green New Deal for Public Housing Act –

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Rep. Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez (NY-14), Sen. Bernie Sanders (I-VT), and Rep. Delia Ramirez (IL-03) reintroduced the Green New Deal for Public Housing Act today, taking a significant step toward addressing the intertwined crises of climate change and affordable housing.

The law was created in partnership with public housing inhabitants, affordable housing advocates, climate change campaigners, and unions, and seeks to modernize the nation’s public housing stock, ensuring that it is both environmentally sustainable and safe for its people. The bill is expected to cost between $162 and $234 billion over the next decade and promises a greener, fairer future for millions of Americans.

Years of neglect and disinvestment have left much of the country’s public housing in disrepair, with problems such as mold development, lead-based paint risks, insufficient heating and cooling systems, and deteriorating water infrastructure. This legislation attempts to solve these long-standing challenges while also addressing the critical need to tackle climate change.

Congresswoman Ocasio-Cortez emphasized the urgent need for comprehensive, public solutions, stating, “Every American deserves to live in a safe, vibrant, and environmentally conscious community — including public housing residents. I am confident this legislation is how we make that a reality.”

Senator Sanders echoed these sentiments, highlighting the unacceptable reality of homelessness and housing insecurity in the wealthiest nation on earth. “It is unacceptable that our nation’s public housing is in a state of chronic disrepair and energy inefficiency after generations of government neglect,” he remarked. “This legislation is a major step in the right direction.”

Congresswoman Ramirez emphasized the human rights aspect of the legislation, asserting, “Safe, sustainable, resilient, affordable housing is a HUMAN RIGHT, plain and simple.”

The Green New Deal for Public Housing Act proposes a comprehensive approach to transforming the nation’s public housing stock. Key provisions of the bill include.

1. Retrofitting and decarbonizing all public housing units to make them zero-carbon, highly energy-efficient developments.

2. Expanding federal programs to provide residents with meaningful work opportunities, financial independence, and a voice in the management of public housing.

3. Replenishing the public housing capital backlog and repealing the Faircloth Amendment, which limits the construction of new public housing developments.

4. Creating grant programs to modernize public housing through deep energy retrofits, workforce development initiatives, renewable energy generation, and community resiliency projects.

The revival of the Green New Deal for Public Housing Act has received considerable support from a variety of groups and parties. Diane Yentel, president and CEO of the National Low Income Housing Coalition, praised the bill for taking an innovative approach to conserving and renovating public housing while generating opportunities for low-income people.

Paul Wallace, Maintenance Technician and President of AFSCME Local 647 emphasized the importance of the legislation in addressing the needs of working families and low-income renters, stating, “We support it creating new high road jobs and strengthening jobs programs, helping with tenant initiatives, job training, and apprenticeships.”Analilia Mejia and DaMareo Cooper, Co-Executive Directors of the Center for Popular Democracy Action, praised the bill for its potential to create quality jobs and build green social housing for the future.

Jasmin Sanchez, a climate organizer and resident of the New York City Housing Authority, underscored the importance of addressing the capital backlog in public housing, stating, “The Green New Deal for Public Housing creates a necessary pathway to allocate money to address the capital backlog in public housing.”

The endorsements of organizations like the American Federation of Teachers (AFT), Sunrise Movement, National Wildlife Federation, and many others reflect the broad support for the legislation among advocates for housing justice, climate action, and social equity.

In addition to congressional backing, the Green New Deal for Public Housing Act has received endorsements from a variety of organizations, including labor unions, environmental groups, housing activists, and grassroots organizations. These endorsements highlight the critical need for strong, revolutionary action to solve the interlinked challenges of climate change, housing insecurity, and economic injustice.

The reintroduction of the Green New Deal for Public Housing Act allows politicians to emphasize the needs of the most vulnerable communities while pursuing solutions that benefit society. This measure takes a big step toward a more just and equitable future for all Americans by investing in long-term, affordable housing and establishing decent job opportunities.

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Dems share personal gun violence horror stories to reflect anxiety in Black communities

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Gun violence is the leading cause of death for children in the United States and is particularly harming Black and brown communities. Democrats in Congress say they are working to combat that.

U.S. Rep. Steven Horsford, D-Nev., told theGrio that gun violence is a “true epidemic” in the U.S. that “disproportionately impacts Black people.” He declared, “It is the single largest factor in death for young Black men and the second highest for Black women.”

The Congressional Black Caucus (CBC) said that finding a solution to curbing gun violence should be taken seriously.

On Thursday, U.S. Rep. Robin Kelly, D-Ill., held a gun prevention press conference with fellow House Democrats U.S. Reps. Maxwell Frost, D-Fla., Mike Thompson, D-Calif., and Horsford. Also in attendance were Gregory Jackson Jr., deputy director for the White House Office of Gun Violence Prevention, members of Moms Demand Action for Gun Sense in America, and members of Brady: United Against Gun Violence.

During the conference, Rep. Kelly shared details about the newly-released “Kelly Report: A Vision for a Safer America,” which illustrates the social impact gun violence has on Americans, especially young children. The congresswoman found that children who witness gun violence often underperform in school and suffer from psychological issues that prevent their development.

The report also found communities that endure a high volume of gun violence experience trauma and post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), resulting in feeling hopeless, fear, numbness, and hypervigilance.

U.S. Rep. Robin Kelly (D-IL)
U.S. Rep. Robin Kelly (D-IL) listens during a news conference September 25, 2017 on Capitol Hill in Washington, DC. Reps Lewis was joined by Demetrius Nash, who took a walk from Chicago to Washington, to discuss gun violence. (Photo by Alex Wong/Getty Images)

Congressman Frost, the youngest member of Congress, told theGrio that the “Kelly Report” is a useful tool “to show members of Congress how Black and brown people are disproportionately impacted by gun violence.”

The report also lays out solutions to prevent further “bloodshed” in the U.S. due to gun violence, which includes passing laws that enforce comprehensive background checks if someone wants to obtain a firearm license, safe storage legislation, stronger domestic violence statutes, and the creation of community violence prevention programs.

Kelly told reporters that she hopes this is the last report that she has to publish on gun violence and that House Republicans will join Democrats in passing comprehensive gun reform. She told reporters, “Americans shouldn’t have to live in constant fear.”

Horsford told reporters he became an advocate for gun reform legislation as a freshman attending the University of Nevada, Reno. A young Horsford encountered a “life-changing moment that helped him turn pain into ending senseless gun violence.”

“At 19, I got a call that my father was shot and killed on the way to the hospital,” said Horsford. “He was shot while working in a local convenience store a block away from where I was raised and the community that I now serve.”

U.S. Rep. Maxwell Frost, theGrio.com
U.S. Maxwell Frost (D-FL) participates in a meeting of the House Oversight and Reform Committee in the Rayburn House Office Building on January 31, 2023 in Washington, DC. (Photo by Kevin Dietsch/Getty Images)

The CBC chairman told theGrio, “Every community deserves to be safe from gun violence in America.” He added, “We should approach gun violence with all of the solutions that are available to us” and “we should get Republicans in Congress to act.”

Frost, who has been an avid gun violence advocate, told reporters that the Sandy Hook Elementary School shooting in 2012 that killed 26 people, including students and staff, inspired him to get involved in politics at 15. At the time of the shooting, Frost was in a band. He and his bandmates saw the news of the deadly school shooting just before they were set to perform at a concert. 

“I played one of the worst shows of my life,” Frost told reporters about that night. “I kept looking over my shoulder at the exit sign with anxiety that someone would walk into that theatre and kill my friends, my family, and me.”

Frost added that it is the same anxiety he experienced that Black and brown people in communities across the nation face daily.

Rep. Steven Horsford, theGrio.com
Nevada Rep. Steven Horsford (above) confirmed with theGrio that he met with Republican Sen. Tim Scott on Monday to discuss police reform and plans to reach out to other Republican colleagues. (Photo: Rod Lamkey-Pool/Getty Images)

Congresswoman Kelly told theGrio that she invited Horsford and Frost to the press conference to share their personal stories about gun violence because “the public forgets that we’re human too.”

“We go through the same life experiences as everybody else,” said Kelly. “We hurt, we cry, and bad things happen to us … sometimes I think that gets lost.”

She said Americans must understand that lawmakers care about the same issues that they do. She explained, “They want background checks and gun safety, and so do we.”

Horsford told reporters that House Democrats “know the solutions; we just need Republicans in Congress to have the courage to bring up the bills that we’ve drafted.” Those bills, he said, have “overwhelming support from the people of America.”

“From all walks of life. From every political party,” he said. “Because gun violence doesn’t have a political party.”

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Leadership Highlight: Lane College’s SGA President Malek Lockhart

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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 Lane College and did an interview with Malek Lockhart 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. Lockhart, who is majoring in Business Administration, is from Nassau, The Bahamas. He is a proud Spring 2023 initiate of Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Inc.

We interviewed Malek Lockhart, 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, my term has taught me the profound value of perseverance. It’s not merely about enduring challenges but embodying resilience, authenticity, and purposeful action. Each day, showing up with unwavering commitment, remaining true to oneself, and pushing forward despite obstacles has become a testament to the power of perseverance. Furthermore, it’s about fostering inspiration in others through consistent dedication and meaningful progress. This journey has unveiled the transformative potential inherent in steadfast determination, reaffirming the significance of perseverance as a guiding principle in leadership and life.

What made you decide to attend Lane College for undergrad?

In 2021, amidst my final year at Jordan Prince Williams Baptist High School in Nassau, The Bahamas, a significant milestone illuminated my educational journey. I was nationally acknowledged for my academic prowess, and was bestowed with the “Emerging Leader Award” by the Iota Epsilon Lambda Chapter of Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity Inc. This accolade not only honored my achievements but also heralded a new chapter in my academic pursuit. With immense gratitude, I embraced the accompanying Presidential Scholarship to Lane College, an opportunity that transcended mere education; it transformed me into a first-generation college student, paving the way for boundless possibilities and a legacy of black excellence.

How has Lane College molded you into the person you are today?

Lane College has been instrumental in shaping the essence of who I am today, unveiling the depths of my potential in a profoundly personal way. The faculty and staff, unwavering in their support, continuously breathed life into my aspirations, instilling in me a belief in my capabilities. Surrounded by a close-knit community that fosters encouragement, I am reminded daily to stride confidently with my head held high. Beyond imparting a quality education, Lane College has broadened my worldview, cultivating within me a profound sense of responsibility towards the Black community. It’s more than an institution; it’s a beacon of empowerment and enlightenment.

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, one of the significant initiatives I spearheaded was the restoration of our sandpit, transforming it into a vibrant outdoor campus volleyball venue. This initiative not only revitalized a neglected space but also fostered a sense of community and wellness among students. By providing a recreational area for outdoor sports, we encourage physical activity and healthy lifestyles. Moreover, hosting events like volleyball tournaments in this revitalized space promotes social interaction and camaraderie among students, enhancing campus culture.

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

This year, The UNCONQUERED administration has taken a proactive approach to address the mental health needs of our student body by establishing a chapter of Active Minds, an esteemed intercollegiate mental health nonprofit organization. Through this initiative, we are providing a platform for students to openly discuss mental health challenges, access resources, and participate in awareness-raising activities. Additionally, our school has expanded counseling services, implemented peer support programs, and organized mental health workshops to equip students with coping mechanisms and support networks. By prioritizing mental health initiatives, we are fostering a campus culture that values well-being and supports the holistic development of our students.

What does leadership mean to you?

I believe that leadership embodies the art of igniting inspiration and fostering growth in others. It’s about imparting wisdom, and challenging individuals to surpass their perceived limitations. Rather than simply achieving personal success, it’s about cultivating a culture of collective achievement and empowerment. Leadership entails demonstrating through actions and words the boundless possibilities available to everyone. It’s about creating an environment where individuals feel encouraged to strive for greatness and are supported in their endeavors. Ultimately, leadership at the collegiate level requires inspiring and uplifting others to reach their fullest potential.

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

I think that schools must leverage digital platforms to showcase their unique strengths, academic excellence, and vibrant campus life to a global audience. A comprehensive website that highlights the institution’s historical significance, academic programs, esteemed faculty, and student achievements is essential. Active engagement on social media platforms allows schools to connect with prospective students, alumni, and supporters, fostering a sense of community and pride. Moreover, investing in digital learning platforms ensures equitable access to quality education, particularly in light of the increasing prevalence of online learning. Virtual events, webinars, and alumni networking sessions provide opportunities for engagement and collaboration, transcending geographical barriers.

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

Watch The Yard is vital to Black students and college culture as it serves as a dynamic platform for celebrating achievements, promoting unity, and amplifying voices within the Black community. Through captivating content, it highlights the diverse experiences, accomplishments, and traditions of Black students at historically Black colleges and universities (HBCUs) and beyond. By sharing stories, showcasing excellence, and fostering connections, Watch The Yard empowers Black students to embrace their identity, inspires pride in their heritage, and cultivates a sense of belonging in a broader cultural landscape. It’s a beacon of representation, affirmation, and community for Black students navigating higher education.

What do you plan on doing after graduation?

After graduation, my aspirations include securing a stable job, embarking on a journey as a serial entrepreneur, and pursuing a master’s degree in finance. With each venture, I envision myself pushing boundaries, innovating, and making a lasting impact. I aim to create ventures that not only thrive financially but also contribute positively to society.

We at Watch The Yard would like to commend Malek Lockhart for his work as the SGA president of Lane College.

Share this on Facebook and help us highlight Malek Lockhart and Lane College.

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Ana Ortiz Joins Season Two Cast of Disney+ Anthology Series “Goosebumps” –

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Ana Ortiz, known for her role in “Love, Victor,” is set to star in the second season of the Disney+ anthology series “Goosebumps.” She will portray Jen, a dedicated police detective with deep ties to her Brooklyn neighborhood, haunted by a tragic event involving her friends during adolescence.

Ortiz joins a stellar ensemble cast, including Emmy® Award-nominated actor and director David Schwimmer, who leads the series. The new regulars for season two include Sam McCarthy, Jayden Bartels, Elijah Cooper, Galilea La Salvia, and Francesca Noel.

Created by Nicholas Stoller and Rob Letterman, and produced by Sony Pictures Television in collaboration with Disney Branded Television, “Goosebumps” is inspired by R.L. Stine’s iconic book series, which has captivated readers worldwide.

In its second season, the show introduces a fresh narrative, setting, and cast, revolving around the mystery of four teenagers who vanished in 1994. Devin and Cece, played by McCarthy and Bartels, find themselves at the center of this chilling tale as they uncover dark secrets and unravel a profound mystery.

The first season of “Goosebumps” garnered critical acclaim, earning Certified Fresh status on Rotten Tomatoes and receiving nominations for prestigious awards such as the PGA Award and the DGA Award. Its premiere episode was a massive success, attracting 4.2 million total views globally in its initial three days of release on Disney+ and Hulu.

The series boasts an impressive lineup of executive producers, including Hilary Winston, Neal H. Moritz, Iole Lucchese, Pavun Shetty, Conor Welch, Caitlin Friedman, and Erin O’Malley, ensuring that fans can expect another thrilling and unforgettable season.

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Carlee Russell Enters Guilty Plea in Fake Kidnapping Hoax

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Well, well, well. Looky here… Ol’ Miss Carlee Russell, the Black woman who went viral for faking her kidnapping, has entered a guilty plea on charges in connection to the incident.

Russell had everybody and they mama and grandmamas searching the area of Hoover, Ala. over the summer after she mysteriously vanished. Police said she called 911 to report seeing a toddler in a diaper walking on the side of the interstate. Police arrived to her location to find her vehicle vacant with her belongings inside. The internet went into a frenzy trying to locate her yet some internet sleuths drew suspicions on whether she was actually missing.

When she reappeared home days later, she told the police she was kidnapped by a man with orange hair and a girl who used the toddler to bait her into a trailer where they abducted her. However, the public crew skeptical.

The following week, the Hoover Police Department held a press conference confirming through a statement by Russell’s attorney that the whole thing was a hoax. The motive? Girl, who even cares at this point?! Anyways, Russell was slapped with charges. Thursday, she waived her right to a trial.

Read more from AL.com:

Russell, 26, entered a blind plea to false reporting to law enforcement authorities and falsely reporting an incident. That meant Russell had no agreement in place stating what sentence the judge would hand down. A Hoover municipal judge in October had sentenced her to a year in the Jefferson County jail.

Jefferson County Bessemer Cutoff Judge David Carpenter pointed out that although Russell alarmed the country, he believed it would be a waste of government resources to put her in jail because she is not a threat to the community.

Russell was sentenced to six months in county jail. However, those sentences were suspended. Russell was ordered to pay restitution of nearly $18,000. She must provide proof of mental health counseling.

In the courtroom, Russell gave her first public address after being dragged for absolute filth by the internet for her lies.

“I want to specifically acknowledge and take accountability for the pain and embarrassment that I inflicted upon my family, my church family, friends, neighbors, community, and all of those who were directly involved in search efforts for me,” Russell said.

She’s due back in court in October to review how much more restitution she owes by that point and whether she finished her community service, per NBC’s report.

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Leadership Highlight: Wichita State University’s SGA President Iris Okere

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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 Wichita State University and did an interview with Iris Okere 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. Okere, who is majoring in marketing, is from Dallas. She is a proud Fall 2021 initiate of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Inc.

We interviewed Iris Okere, 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?

You won’t be able to please everyone. Someone is always going to be mad. You just got to do what is best for the students, and for the future Shockers down the line. They will thank you, later.

What made you decide to attend Wichita State University for undergrad?

When it came time to choose a university for my undergraduate degree, I wanted an experience that would both challenge and enrich me. Coming from Dallas, Texas, I sought opportunities beyond the state borders to foster personal growth and exploration of living in another state. Wichita State University stood out as an ideal choice, offering a combination of affordability and quality education. The generous financial aid package, along with the innovative I35 pipeline program extending in-state tuition to cities along the I35 corridor, made attending Wichita State a practical and appealing option. This commitment to accessibility and affordability, coupled with the university’s academic reputation and diversity, solidified my decision. Choosing Wichita State means I can pursue my academic goals while embarking on a journey of personal intellectual growth.

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

My education at WSU has been pivotal, equipping me with not only academic knowledge but also invaluable life skills and experiences. From fostering critical thinking and problem-solving abilities to cultivating lifelong friendships and connections, WSU has provided me with a solid foundation for personal and professional growth. Wichita State, the State of Kansas, and the division of Student Affairs have broadened my perspectives and shaped my values, preparing me to navigate the complexities of the world with confidence, but most importantly compassion. This has been a time in my life that I will cherish forever. I am pursuing my passions of advocacy and making a positive impact in the world.

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?

Our administration has taken proactive steps to enhance student engagement by implementing monthly raffles, aimed at fostering a vibrant social media presence. Recognizing the gaps left by previous administrations, we’ve initiated this strategy to invigorate our online platforms and cultivate stronger connections with our student body. Moreover, we’ve spearheaded the establishment of the ICT Cross Campus Coalition, a pioneering initiative that fosters collaboration among neighboring post-secondary institutions in Wichita. This coalition serves as a platform for comprehensive discussions on local issues impacting higher education. By bringing together all these institutions we aim to address these challenges collectively and drive positive change within our educational community.

Photo Credit: @kynnkaptures

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

Our Student Government Association (SGA) are deeply committed to prioritizing the mental health and well-being of our student body. Recognizing the increasing challenges students face, particularly regarding basic needs insecurity and financial stress, we have taken proactive steps to continue these efforts from our predecessors through the Shocker Support Locker Program. The Shocker Support Locker serves as a vital resource hub, providing students with access to essential supplies such as food, toiletries, school supplies, and other basic necessities. By alleviating the burdens associated with basic needs insecurity, we aim to create a more supportive environment where students can focus on their academic success and overall well-being. This initiative is especially crucial in light of the growing prevalence of mental health challenges among college students statewide. Looking ahead, we are committed to expanding and enhancing the Shocker Support Locker Program to better serve the needs of our students. With the anticipated arrival of new facilities in Summer of 2024, we are optimistic about the opportunity to further strengthen our support services and reach even more students in need.

What does leadership mean to you?

To me, leadership means embodying values that inspire and empower others. Its about being a team player, delegating tasks wisely and fostering open communication. A good leader is efficient, prioritizing tasks and resources effectively. They also advocate for others, championing causes and initiatives that align with their organization’s values. Overall, leadership is about inspiring action, fostering collaboration, and making a positive impact on those around you.

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

As someone who has experienced the transition to a digital world firsthand, I believe that schools need to prioritize several key areas to effectively represent themselves online in 2023/2024. First and foremost, schools must focus on enhancing their online presence and accessibility. This means creating user-friendly websites and digital platforms that provide easy access to information about programs, admission, events, and resources. Social media presence is huge as well because we live in a society where that is where people are receiving their news. Engaging with followers, creating compelling content, and utilizing targeted advertising to attract and retain students. Digital communication is also very important in the classroom as it is a tool to facilitate seamless interaction between students, faculty, staff, and administration

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 serves as a platform for celebrating the achievements and contributions of Black Students. It provides a space for Black students to connect, share experiences, and build community across campuses nationwide. Additionally Watch The Yard highlights the cultural heritage and traditions of historically Black colleges and Universities and other institutions like predominantly White Institutions with significant black student populations. Overall, it promotes solidarity, fosters a sense of belonging, and amplifies Black voices and experiences within higher education.

What do you plan on doing after graduation?

After graduation, I plan to pursue my aspirations of obtaining a law degree. However, before diving into further studies, I have decided to take some time off to gain practical experience in my field of study, marketing. I believe that hands-on experience in the marketing industry will not only enhance my skills and knowledge but also provide valuable insights that will benefit me in my future legal career. As of now, I am actively searching for job opportunities in marketing and remain optimistic about securing a position before May 11th. I am eager to apply the skills and knowledge I have acquired throughout my academic journey to real-world scenarios. Can’t wait to be in my Corporate Baddie Era!

We at Watch The Yard would like to commend Iris Okere for her work as the SGA president of Wichita State University.

Share this on Facebook and help us highlight Iris Okere and Wichita State University.

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Watch: Mike Bivins of New Edition talks importance of 2024 election | The Hill with April Ryan

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This week’s edition of theGrio’s “The Hill With April Ryan” looks at the efforts of the Congressional Black Caucus amid a litany of legal battles over diversity, equity, and inclusion in public schools from states like Alabama, Florida, Texas, and Utah. The CBC also champions The Crown Act after a high school in Texas suspended Darryl George, a Black teen, for wearing his natural hair. Additionally, “The Hill” takes a look at the police brutality case involving six Mississippi police officers known as the “Goon Squad,” convicted for the racist torturing of two Black men. For Women’s History Month, we also highlight a book focusing on the taboo subject of menopause and how it impacts Black women. Lastly, theGrio caught up with Mike Bivins of New Edition and BBD during the 55th annual NAACP Image Awards. The music superstar discussed the importance of being civically engaged in this election season. Watch more theGrio.com!

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The Battle for Westeros Intensifies –

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HBO’s highly anticipated original drama series, House of the Dragon, is set to make its return with an eight-episode second season, premiering on Sunday, June 16, from 9:00 to 10:00 p.m. ET/PT. The series will also be available for streaming on HBO Max.

Francesca Orsi, Executive Vice President of HBO Programming and Head of HBO Drama Series & Films unveiled HBO’s groundbreaking approach with the premiere of its first-ever “dueling” trailers at Series Mania in Lille, France, on Thursday, March 21. This announcement coincided with Warner Bros. Discovery’s revelation that Max would commence its launch in Europe on May 21st.

The second season delves deeper into the political turmoil engulfing Westeros, as the Green and Black Councils vie for supremacy, each backing their claim to the Iron Throne with King Aegon and Queen Rhaenyra respectively. Reflecting these divergent narratives, the “All Must Choose” trailers showcase the escalating tensions as the realm braces for a bloody civil war.

Based on George R.R. Martin’s “Fire & Blood,” the series unfolds 200 years before the events of “Game of Thrones,” chronicling the tumultuous history of House Targaryen.

Returning for the second season are acclaimed actors Matt Smith, Olivia Cooke, Emma D’Arcy, Eve Best, Steve Toussaint, Fabien Frankel, Ewan Mitchell, Tom Glynn-Carney, Sonoya Mizuno, and Rhys Ifans. Additionally, Harry Collett, Bethany Antonia, Phoebe Campbell, Phia Saban, Jefferson Hall, and Matthew Needham reprise their roles.

Joining the ensemble cast are new additions including Abubakar Salim as Alyn of Hull, Gayle Rankin as Alys Rivers, Freddie Fox as Ser Gwayne Hightower, Simon Russell Beale as Ser Simon Strong, Clinton Liberty as Addam of Hull, Jamie Kenna as Ser Alfred Broome, Kieran Bew as Hugh, Tom Bennett as Ulf, Tom Taylor as Lord Cregan Stark, and Vincent Regan as Ser Rickard Thorne.

The series credits boast a stellar lineup with Co-Creator and Executive Producer George R.R. Martin leading the helm alongside Co-Creator, Showrunner, and Executive Producer Ryan Condal. Other executive producers include Sara Hess, Alan Taylor, Melissa Bernstein, Kevin de la Noy, Loni Peristere, and Vince Gerardis.

Fans of epic fantasy and political intrigue are eagerly anticipating the return of House of the Dragon, promising another thrilling installment in the legendary saga of Westeros.

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The Dinner That Started the Harlem Renaissance

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L: Langston Hughes, R: Jessie Fauset

L: Langston Hughes, R: Jessie Fauset
Photo: Getty

On March 21, 1924, a group of Black and white artists and intellectuals got together at New York’s Civic Club for a dinner party to celebrate author Jessie R. Fauset’s debut novel, “There is Confusion.” Organizers Charles S. Johnson and Alain Locke thought bringing these brilliant minds together, while generally unheard of would provide up and coming Black talent with opportunities they had never imagined.

And they were right. After that event, a creative movement known as the Harlem Renaissance began, inspiring over 40 works of fiction, non-fiction and poetry by Black writers that continue to be an important part of Black culture today.

These are the people who were influential in launching the Harlem Renaissance.

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