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Jordan Hollywood – The Ugly Song

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Florida rapper, singer, producer, and hitmaking CEO Jordan Hollywood returns with “The Ugly Song,” the speaker-rattling, Timbaland-featuring lead single from his upcoming album, Only the Paranoid Survive. Listen HERE. Out today on Quality Control Music/Motown Records, the song is accompanied by a captivating, cinematic, and often hilarious music video that finds the artist progressing from the country to the country club. Watch HERE.

“It’s crazy how 20 years ago I enjoyed this song as a kid and now it’s part of my legacy. It’s one thing to get a Timbaland beat or to get him to clear a sample but it’s special when the legend himself steps in the booth with you and adds his touches to your vision,” says Jordan Hollywood. “I never in a million years thought I’d get to work with the hitmaker. With the video I told the director I want this shit to feel like an open world video game where I have freedom to randomly do things my way.’ “The Ugly Song” is just the start.”

An homage to Bubba Sparxxx’s Timbaland-produced single “Ugly,” “The Ugly Song” is a banging reinterpretation that flips the early 2000s classic for a new generation. The instrumental deftly chops Timbaland’s Bollywood-influenced melodies and pairs them with quaking drums and trap percussion. Offering both his blessing and his vocals, Timbaland delivers his signature ad-libs (“ficky ficky”), while Hollywood effortlessly glides over the beat. As ever, Hollywood stuffs his melodic and athletic bars full of witty metaphors: “Snitches they get stitches, they gon’ pick ’em up and sew ’em/Snakes all in my grass, I gotta go outside and mow ’em.” This is Hollywood flexing on his enemies, making it rain in the club to celebrate wins past and present. “The Ugly Song” follows Timbaland’s galvanic VERZUZ battle with Swizz Beatz filled with throwbacks.

The video, directed by Austin McCracken and filmed in Los Angeles, makes liberal use of visual effects (and openly nods to that at the end), dropping Hollywood into a wheat field accompanied by a horse who eventually kicks him in the head. The rapper continues to get knocked into or out of various colorful scenarios. Both the video and the song break from expectation, showing that Hollywood is willing to challenge himself and share a laugh. “The Ugly Song” is Hollywood’s first release since 2019’s “Testament,” wherein he recounted the hurdles he’s endured on his rise.

About Jordan Hollywood

Jordan Hollywood believes paranoia is integral to his success. “I think being paranoid is healthy,” says the Florida native. “Overthinking certain situations can reduce the losses you take in life.” It’s difficult to argue with the versatile artist, producer, CEO, and hustler. His singular ability to blend witty punchlines, vulnerable verses, and melodic croons into captivating rap/R&B/pop hybrids has resonated with his growing fanbase for years. After a stint in his youth writing for fellow Broward County artist Jason Derulo, Hollywood released a successful independent debut Sorry for This in 2016 and then signed with Quality Control Music for 2018’s FINALLY! The whole way, he’s held to his ever-skeptical mentality, which has now afforded him the space and close-knit creative circle to create his most honest and mature album to date: the forthcoming Only the Paranoid Survive. The album is a document of Hollywood’s growth as he perfects the art of balancing family, loyalty, and financial gains. Only the Paranoid Survive is a product of the countless hours Hollywood spent holed up in his home studio speaking to the microphone about everything from the pressures and anxieties of the unknown, new fatherhood, and avoiding people who he doesn’t trust. The emotions he spills don’t feel born of negativity, but of self-preservation through his worries. He’s learning how to thrive.

How to Drive a Class A Motorhome

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With so many Americans embracing the RV lifestyle, there’s bound to be a learning curve on how to drive and manage a large motorhome.

Holiday Rambler® has partnered with Spencer and Kristi Blu from the Adventurtunity Family to share their experiences as they travel the United States in a 2017 Vacationer® 36H from Holiday Rambler with their four-year-old son Kade and puppy Ruko Blu. The family purchased their 37-foot RV in July 2020 and started living on the road full time that September.

Since then, they’ve chronicled their adventures on Instagram and the Holiday Rambler blog.

Holiday Rambler is an award-winning brand within REV Recreation Group, Inc., which is a subsidiary of REV Group, Inc. The Holiday Rambler 2022 line includes four diesel and three gas motorhomes, including the Vacationer model that the Adventurtunity family owns.

Dad Spencer does the majority of the driving of the family’s Holiday Rambler and recently shared his tips and advice for handling a Class A motorhome in a blog post.

Learning to Drive a Class A Motorhome by Spencer Blu from Adventurtunity Family

There is something about learning to drive a Class A motorhome that gives some people pause when they are trying to decide what type of RV to buy for their family. It was one of the most frequent questions I got when we brought home our Vacationer. Friends and family alike would look at it and say, “That’s a beautiful motorhome…no way I could drive that!” Or something like, “That’s gotta be so scary to drive. How did you learn?” If I’m honest, Class A’s were not at the top of my list when we started looking for an RV because I had never driven anything nearly that big! But, the reality is that it’s not all that daunting. And, like anything else, the more you do it, the better you get!

So, to help put nerves at ease for those considering a motorhome purchase, I’m going to be talking about the aspects of driving a Class A motorhome to give you a better idea of what it’s like, how it differs from driving a passenger vehicle, and ideally give you the confidence to go take that test drive!

To be clear, I am not an expert or an instructor. The ideas and thoughts are based on my experience driving our Holiday Rambler Vacationer with a gas engine. I have not driven a diesel pusher, and, while I understand there are some fundamental mechanical and operational differences, the concepts below should by and large apply to either platform.

The First Drive

“So, you want to take it for a drive?” Those words hit me in the face like a right hook from Mike Tyson. My family and I were standing in the living area of a beautiful Holiday Rambler motorhome. It was the very first RV we went to look at when we started our search. We had been given the tour and were honestly a little giddy with the thought that it could possibly be our new home for an incredible journey to come! And then the seller asked that question and I was snatched right out of my daydream. “You mean right now?” I said, as if his question was poorly timed. I mean I knew it was coming, we were there as potential buyers. I certainly wouldn’t buy a car without driving it, this shouldn’t be any different, right? So, after about a 15 second internal pep talk, and the realization that, if I was going to drive this thing across the country, I had to start somewhere, I said, “Let’s go!” And you know what? It wasn’t nearly as big a deal as I had made it out to be in my head! So now I can say with confidence that if you’re hesitant about getting a Class A because you lack the experience to drive it, don’t be. You can do it, and you’ll be glad you did!

The Basics of Driving a Class A Motorhome

Let’s get the obvious out of the way off the bat. Regardless of what length the coach you decide to get is, it will be bigger and heavier than what you’re used to driving. By a lot. I had driven a few rental box trucks before. But none of them even came close to the size of our 37-foot-long Vacationer. Time and space will be your biggest allies as you pilot your coach! So, as long as you keep these fundamental things in mind every time you turn the key, you’ll be in good shape.

Know your height and weight (fully loaded). Write them down on a sticky note and place it on the dash where you can see it. Better to know you won’t fit under an overpass before you get to it than to find out while you’re stuck under it.
Take left turns wider than you think you need to, and right turns even wider. As nicely as these machines can handle being on the road, they will not turn on a dime.
Allow yourself additional space to get up to speed with traffic. More importantly, leave plenty of space between yourself and the vehicle in front of you to slow down. Acceleration and braking distances are greatly increased in a vehicle this size.

Road Signage

Another thing that you will realize is that there are a lot of road signs that now apply directly to you as the driver of a large vehicle. You will start to pay attention to all those signs you ignore when driving a passenger vehicle. Those suggested speed signs for off-ramps and sharp curves you always thought were comically slow will all of a sudden make perfect sense when cruising in your rig. You’ll also want to be aware of height and weight restriction signs that may now apply to you when approaching bridges and overpasses. A quick glance at that aforementioned sticky note will be quite helpful!

When travelling in mountainous or hilly regions you will want to keep an eye out for signs that tell you the grade percentage of an upcoming steep climb or descent. You’ll definitely want to slow down when approaching a steep descent. Manage your speed by gearing down and braking intermittently to save your brakes. The “Runaway Truck Ramp” signs you see on steep downhills are there for a reason and you do not want to have to use one of them!

What it boils down to is that you’ll now need to take note of all the signs that are there for truck drivers. While you may not be driving an 80,000 lb. tractor trailer, you are closer to their level than you are to the Honda Civics buzzing around you on the road. So being aware of those signs will go a long way in helping you arrive safely to your destination!

Conclusion

And there it is my friends! I knew nothing and had zero experience the first time I drove our coach. But I took my time and made sure to be very aware of my surroundings. It really is enjoyable once you get comfortable and familiar with your coach. Hopefully this information helps give you some confidence to go find that Class A you and your family have been dreaming about! You’ll be rolling down the road to adventure in no time! By the way, we ended up buying that Holiday Rambler Vacationer. The very first one I drove is the one we own, and I couldn’t be happier!

CELEBRATE LABOR DAY VISITING MANUFACTURING SITES THROUGHOUT THE U.S.

Curated by the Holiday Rambler® Brand

The long Labor Day weekend is an ideal time to sneak in a warm weather road trip before temps begin to cool off. For RVers and travel lovers looking for something different, try visiting a few manufacturing sites suggested by Holiday Rambler.

While many traditional manufacturers haven’t reopened their factory tours, there are still plenty of interesting (and tasty) companies to visit for a behind-the-scenes look. Think potato chips, baseball bats, whisky, cars, hot sauce, and more. The ten sites on the Holiday Rambler travelogue start on the East Coast, dip into the South, wind through the Midwest, head into the Mountain states, and finish on the West Coast. Each stop is paired with a recommendation for a local establishment that’s a bit different from the norm, along with an RV park.

While Holiday Rambler has temporarily suspended its factory tours, the brand has released a series of four videos showcasing how its motorhomes are made at its manufacturing headquarters in Decatur, IN. The exclusive tours deliver a peek into a few of the steps involved in manufacturing a 16,000 to 30,000 lb. Class A motorhome. To watch the factory tour videos, visit Holiday Rambler’s website, select the About tab, click on Factory Tours, and provide an email address.

Holiday Rambler RVs are known for their superior functionality and luxury design amenities that allow travelers to explore far and wide with confidence and in comfort. The 2021 Nautica model from Holiday Rambler earned Best New Model from RV Pro and Top RV Debut from RVBusiness. Nautica is a Class A Diesel motorhome that is less than 40′ and built on a Freightliner Custom Chassis^®. While the Nautica is shorter in length, it still boasts a roomy interior with lots of storage. Amenities include an electric fireplace, stainless steel appliances, pantry storage, master bedroom suite with a skylight shower, and an exterior entertainment center with a 50″ LED TV.

Holiday Rambler is a Class A RV brand within REV Recreation Group, Inc., which is a subsidiary of REV Group^®, Inc. For more information, visit HERE.

Please note: each manufacturing stop has been researched but be sure to call ahead to confirm hours of operation, advance ticketing requirements, and other relevant details. Be sure to travel safely by following the CDC guidelines related to COIVD-19.

10 Manufacturing Stops from Holiday Rambler

Cranberry Bog Tour – Harwich, MA

The U.S. is the world’s leading cranberry producer and MA is one of the leading cranberry growing states. Take a scenic drive to the largest organic cranberry bog on Cape Cod. During a 90-minute tour, learn about the 12-month operation of a bog. Before or after the tour, visit the farm stand for all things cranberry – fresh and dried cranberries, cranberry sauces, cranberry bog honey, and cranberry cookbooks.

Daily tours are offered throughout the spring, summer, and fall, reservations are required, and tickets are $15 each.

To experience the local culture, grab a bite to eat at Mooncusser’s Tavern or Brax Landing, which offers waterfront dining on the Saquatucket Harbor. RVers can stay overnight at Adventure Bound Camping Resorts.

UTZ Potato Chips – Hanover, PA

For snack lovers, the Utz Potato Chip Trip is a must. In 1921, William and Salie Utz began making potato chips in their summer kitchen. 100 years later, the company continues to be family managed and has expanded to make a number of other brands, including Bachman, Zapp’s, Dirty, TGI Fridays Snacks, and Good Health.

This free, 30-45-minute self-guided tour lets visitors see (and smell) the process that starts with farm-fresh potatoes and ends with crispy Utz chips. An observation gallery, closed-circuit monitors, and audio program deliver interesting details about the production process. And, of course, the tour ends with a bag of Utz potato chips and a coupon to the factory outlet store – the perfect place to stock up on road-trip snacks.

The tour is open Monday – Thursday but call ahead to confirm the hours since the daily production schedule is subject to change.

Staub’s Landing Restaurant and Pub is nearby and offers lunch and dinner options, including the area’s best burgers and a selection of more than 60 craft beers. RVers can stay overnight at Gettysburg Farm RV Campground.

Maker’s Mark Distillery – Loretto, KY

Visit one of the most picturesque production sites in the country to learn about the history of Maker’s Mark bourbon whisky. Watch the fermentation process, see the charred oak barrels used to age whisky for five to seven years, and don’t miss the bottling area where workers hand-dip the top of each bottle in Maker’s Mark’s signature red wax.

The origin story of Marker’s Mark is relatively new, dating back to 1953. It began when Bill Samuels, Sr. purchased an existing distillery in Loretto, KY, and began making whisky based on his family’s 170-year-old recipe. Maker’s Mark is unusual because it uses red winter wheat in its mash bill instead of rye. And, instead of the American spelling of “whiskey,” Samuels chose “whisky” to pay homage to his Scottish-Irish heritage.

All tours must be booked online in advance and all guests must be 21 years of age or older.

Visit LaGwen Drive In that’s known for its home-made chili sauce, hamburgers, and hand-dipped cones. RVers can stay overnight at Elizabethtown Crossroads Camp.

Louisville Slugger Museum & Factory – Louisville, KY

Louisville Slugger got its start in 1844 when 17-year-old Bud Hillerich played hooky from work to take in a Louisville Eclipse baseball game. When the team’s superstar hitter broke his bat, Hillerich offered to make him a new one. 177 years later and Louisville Slugger remains family owned and proudly produces 1.8 million wood and aluminum bats a year.

The fun begins outside with the world’s largest baseball bat that stands 120 feet tall and is a replica of Babe Ruth’s 34-inch Louisville Slugger. During the factory tour, walk through the production line to see a few of the 22 steps that turn raw wood into a sleek bat. Each visitor walks off with a better understanding of this iconic brand, along with their very own souvenir mini-bat. After the tour, check out the baseball museum that’s dedicated to the game and some of its legends.

Tickets for the museum and factory tour range from $16 to free and reservations are required.

Afterwards, get a Southern fix of ribs, beef brisket or shrimp and grits at Hammerheads. RVers can stay overnight at Elizabethtown Crossroads Camp.

Ford Rouge Factory Tour – Dearborn, MI

The Ford Rouge Factory dates back to 1917 when Henry Ford first began developing the site. His vision was to achieve “a continuous, nonstop process from raw material to finished product.” At its peak in the 1930s, more than 100,000 people worked at the expansive industrial complex, and one new car rolled off the line every 49 seconds. Today, the Rouge Factory is an example of engineering and modern manufacturing coming together to create one of the country’s most popular trucks – the Ford F-150.

The self-guided tour includes two high-tech theater experiences. The Manufacturing Innovation Theater combines “floating” 3D laser projection mapping and exciting behind-the-wheel footage to take visitors from concept to highway. Top off the tour with a visit to the observation deck to see a remarkable display of industry in motion as Ford F-150s are assembled on the plant floor below.

Tickets to the Henry Ford Museum include the Rouge Factory Tour and are currently limited due to a reduced daily capacity. Tickets should be purchased in advance online.

To continue the “Ford experience,” grab lunch at Ford’s Garage that’s designed to look like a 1920s service station with vintage Ford vehicles, gas pumps, and fixtures. RVers can stay overnight at Haas Lake Park RV Campground.

Wisconsin Foamation Cheesehead Factory – Milwaukee, WI

For a “cheesy” factory tour, look no further than Wisconsin. The tour begins with everyone taking a “Wedge of Allegiance” and continues from there with plenty of groan-inducing jokes. From start to finish, see how cheeseheads are made in a small production facility in Milwaukee. On the deluxe tour, everyone can make their own cheesehead or other style of cheese-inspired hat. FYI – cheesehead was originally coined by Chicagoans as a derogatory term to describe Wisconsinites.

Ralph Bruno started the cheesehead craze in 1987. While reupholstering his mother’s couch, he took an extra piece of foam, cut it into a wedge, added holes, and made it the color of American cheese. He then wore it to a Milwaukee Brewers’ baseball game and, based on the attention and interest from fans around him, began making and selling cheeseheads. Today, cheeseheads are known around the world and can be found in various styles – top hats, visors, sombreros, and more!

The tour that includes a cheesehead hat is 45-60 minutes and starts at $25.

Visit Sobelman’s for a true Milwaukee bar/restaurant experience and be sure to take a look at their Bloody Mary offerings. RVers can stay overnight at Wisconsin State Fair RV Park or River Bend RV Resort.

Budweiser Brewery Tour – St. Louis, MO

Adolphus Busch was a German immigrant and U.S. Civil War veteran who joined his father-in-law, Eberhard Anheuser, in the brewery business after serving in the Union Army. In 1876, thanks to Busch and a friend, the brewery introduced a light-colored beer called Budweiser that Americans loved. Before Budweiser, many were drinking heavy, dark ales so a palatable, crisp lager was appreciated. In 1879, the company’s name was changed to Anheuser-Busch Brewing Association, and in 1880 Busch took over as president after Anheuser’s passing. Busch pioneered the use of refrigerated railcars and pasteurization in the brewing industry as part of his efforts to create the first nationally selling beer in the U.S.

Visitors can choose from a number of different tours. The Beermaster Tour lasts approximately 120 minutes and visits exclusive locations on the Anheuser-Busch campus. The Clydesdale VIP Experience lasts approximately 45 minutes and includes a visit to the stables and time with a Clydesdale handler who will share in-depth information about their lifestyle, training regimens, and mannerisms.

Tour tickets range in price, depending on the experience selected. When booking online, note that some tours are for guests 12 years and older while others are open to all ages.

After the tour, combine Blue’s music with a po boy or red beans and rice at Blue’s City Deli. RVers can stay overnight at Pin Oak Creek RV Park.

Hammond’s Candies – Denver, CO

10 million – that’s how many candy canes Hammond’s Candies in Denver hand makes each year. In addition to that signature cane-shaped candy, the company also produces chocolate bars, rainbow lollipops, and lemon drops. Take a free, 30-minute tour to see how this company that’s one of the oldest candy manufacturers in the U.S. makes its sweet treats.

Hammond’s Candies was founded by Carl T. Hammond, Sr. who quit high school in 1913 and got a job as a candy maker apprentice. After serving in World War I, Hammond returned to Denver and picked up where he left off in a candy factory. With several years of experience under his belt, he ventured out on his own. Early on, Hammond did everything. He developed the recipes, made the candy, sold it, and handled all the tasks required of a fledging business. Today, the company sells its handmade candies worldwide. In the U.S., its treats can be found in Whole Foods, Nordstrom’s, Dean & Deluca, Cracker Barrel and specialty shops.

Tours run every 30 minutes and online reservations are required to ensure availability.

For a self-described “square meal, stiff drink and a fair price,” visit Work & Class. RVers can spend the night at Dakota Ridge RV Park.

TABASCO Factory Tour & Museum – Avery Island, LA

Avery Island, the location where world-famous TABASCO is made, is unique just like the sauce. The island actually rises above the marshes found along coastal Louisiana and sits atop a deposit of solid rock salt that is believed to be deeper than Mount Everest is high.

The TABASCO tour is self-guided and features nine stops including the TABASCO Museum, Pepper Greenhouse, Barrel Warehouse, and TABASCO Country Store(the bottling line stop is currently closed). The Country Store shouldn’t be missed since visitors can taste a variety of TABASCO products, including Tabasco-flavored ice cream and “Original Red” that’s sold in more than 195 countries and territories. The original recipe was created by Edmund McIlhenny in 1868 and has been used by the McIlhenny family for more than 150 years. Most visitors are surprised to learn that only three ingredients are used in the sauce – aged red peppers, salt, and distilled vinegar. Once the three ingredients are combined, the pepper mash is placed into oak barrels, topped with a layer of salt, stored in the Barrel Warehouse, and aged for three years.

Tickets range from $12.50 to free and the tour is open daily.

Check out the Tabasco Restaurant on Avery Island or venture to Landry’s Cajun Seafood & Steakhouse 15 minutes away. RVers can spend the night at Frog City RV Park.

Tillamook Creamery – Tillamook, OR

Tillamook Creamery is the largest tourist attraction on the coast of Oregon and one of the most popular in the state. The creamery offers a free, self-guided tour that shares details about life on a dairy farm, allows visitors to watch milk being made into cheese, and, most importantly, provides complimentary samples. For those who would like to learn the secrets behind Tillamook’s extra creamy ice cream, make a reservation for the small group Exclusive Ice Cream Experience. Get a hands-on look, and taste, of how extra creamy Tillamook Ice Cream goes from milk to market.

Tillamook County Creamery Association (TCCA) was founded in 1909 when several small creameries each contributed $10 to start the cooperative to ensure all cheeses made in the Tillamook Valley would be produced with the same high level of quality. Today, the TCCA is owned by almost 80 farming families, and is proud to make award-winning cheese, yogurt, sour cream, ice cream, and butter.

The creamery recommends visiting during the week to see employees working in the facility. Tickets to the Ice Cream Experience range from $15 – 20 for children and adults.

Just a few minutes away, visit Dutch Mill Café, a ’50s diner with checkerboard flooring, old time booths, and the front clip of a 1957 Chevy. RVers can spend the night at Pleasant Valley RV Park.

About REV Group, Inc.

REV Group^® companies are leading designers and manufacturers of specialty vehicles and related aftermarket parts and services. Our companies serve a diversified customer base, primarily in the United States, through three segments: Fire & Emergency, Commercial, and Recreation. They provide customized vehicle solutions for applications, including essential needs for public services (ambulances, fire apparatus, school buses, and transit buses), commercial infrastructure (terminal trucks and industrial sweepers) and consumer leisure (recreational vehicles). REV’s diverse portfolio is made up of well-established principal vehicle brands, including many of the most recognizable names within their industry. Several of our brands pioneered their specialty vehicle product categories and date back more than 50 years. REV Group trades on the NYSE under the symbol REVG. Investors-REVG

FTC Votes to Reinstate Fabric Care Labels

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The Federal Trade Commission voted in an open Commission meeting to retain the FTC Care Labeling Rule to ensure American consumers continue to get accurate information on how to take care of their fabrics and extend the life of their clothes. In a statement, the Commission also indicated that it will continue to consider ways to improve the Rule to the benefit of families and businesses.

The Care Labeling Rule has been in effect since 1971 and requires manufacturers and importers to attach labels with care instructions for garments and certain piece goods, providing instructions for dry cleaning or washing, bleaching, drying and ironing clothing. Public comments solicited by the FTC over the past decade show the Care Labeling Rule continues to provide valuable guidance and serve as an important tool for consumers, manufacturers, retailers, designers and dry cleaners alike.

In July 2020, in the middle of the pandemic, the Commission voted 3-2 to propose repealing this consumer protection altogether. Following that action, the FTC received more than 200 comments, with an overwhelming majority opposed to the repeal of the rule.

“The Federal Trade Commission first promulgated the Care Labeling Rule in 1971, with the goal of ensuring buyers were provided clear and accurate information on how to take care of their fabrics. Since then, the agency periodically has reviewed the rule, seeking public comments to ensure the rule is keeping pace with new developments and still providing buyers with relevant information,” said FTC Chair Lina Khan in the open Commission meeting. “After careful consideration, I believe the record supports retaining the Care Labeling Rule and that it should not be rescinded.”

Submissions to the most recent public comment period led the Commission to conclude that repealing the rule would not be in the public interest. Many individuals and small businesses opposed the repeal, emphasizing that buyers rely on labels to help extend the life of their clothes.

Other comments the FTC received from the apparel manufacturing and cleaning industries indicated that removing the labels would increase the likelihood that their customers’ items might be damaged in the wash and, as a result, expose their businesses to unnecessary liability, the Commission noted.

The Commission voted 5-0 to issue a statement to notify the public that it will not repeal the Care Labeling Rule, as previously proposed.

The Federal Trade Commission works to promote competition and to protect and educate consumers. You can learn more about consumer topics and report scams, fraud, and bad business practices online HERE.

Tennessee Deathrow Inmate Pervis Payne Should be Freed

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Dr. Charles Steele, Jr., the president and the CEO of the Southern Christian Leadership Conference (SCLC), the organization co-founded and first led by Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr., said today that the legendary civil rights organization will launch a global movement for the freedom of Pervis Payne, a Tennessee man with intellectual disabilities who was sentenced to the death penalty for the 1987 murders of a 28-year-old Tennessee mother and her two-year-old daughter. With the announcement, the SCLC joins a growing number of organizations seeking Payne’s freedom. The campaign has led to a massive movement with nearly one million people signing a petition for Payne’s release.

“We feel that Mr. Pervis Payne has been caught in a system where a miscarriage of justice is taking place in terms of him being sentenced for over 33 years and all of that time, he has been on death row,” Dr. Steele said. “It is a miscarriage of justice in terms of his situation. We have researched it. We have talked to the experts. We have talked to the people involved who have worked with this case for many years. We know beyond a reasonable doubt, Mr. Payne is innocent and should be exonerated.”

For the first time in about a decade, Mr. Payne appeared on Friday in a Memphis court for a hearing on his case that could be decided in December. Dr. Steele was in Memphis on Thursday and Friday to support Mr. Payne. The focus of the SCLC’s effort, he said, is to raise global awareness and drive public pressure to free Payne, other innocent death row inmates and to force the U.S. to end the practice of the death penalty.

According to a 2020 report by the Death Penalty Information Center, there are 2,553 people on death row in the U.S, and, of that number, 1,076 (42.15 percent) are White, and 1,062 or 41.60 percent are black when Black people make up less than 14 percent of the U.S. population. Texas leads the nation with 572 inmates on death row. There are 13 in Tennessee. Zane Floyd of Nevada is due to be executed on July 26th.

“First of all, I do not believe in the death penalty,” Dr. Steele said. “Who are we as human beings to take a life when God gave a life? I believe people who have been involved in crimes and those who perpetually commit crimes, should be punished, but not at the hand of the death penalty. Give them life without parole. This gives an opportunity for those who really know the facts and have researched the facts to bring about the exoneration of people, preventing them from being executed. What if Mr. Payne had been executed prior to his 33 years on death row, then that would have been an innocent man killed just because of the discrimination from people who said he wanted to have a sexual encounter with a white woman after he looked at an issue of Playboy Magazine. Many people of color have been lynched because of the stigma surrounding… white woman.”

Dr. Steele said Americans and those of influence internationally cannot sit idly by and allow this miscarriage of justice to continue. Of the people on death row, five percent are innocent, and no innocent person should be executed.

“We have a right to protect and a right to educate in the court of public opinion that what took place over 200 years ago as far as lynching and unjustifiable executions of people of color is still happening today,” Dr. Steele said. “It is just another form of slavery and modern-day lynching. Memphis, the state of Tennessee and human beings around the world must be accountable. The Jim Crow mentality is why Mr. Pervis Payne is up for execution.”

Dr. Steele added, “If you believe in fairness, you need to get behind this movement on Pervis Payne. You need to march right now. You need to understand what Dr. King said when he said, ‘Silence in the face of evil is evil itself.’ You are just as bad as the prosecutor and people who want to execute him if you do not open your mouth and support this movement. Free Pervis Payne.”

About The SCLC

Established in 1957, the SCLC, whose first president was Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr., is an international organization made up of chapters and affiliates with programs that affect the lives of all Americans: North, South, East, and West. Its sphere of influence and interests have become international in scope because the human rights movement transcends national boundaries.

A Letter to Vice President Harris

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Below is a letter sent to VP Harris and congressional leaders, calling for the inclusion of a permanent broadband benefit for home broadband service in any final infrastructure package passed by Congress and signed into law by President Biden. The letter is signed by more than 294 Black Church leaders.

This coalition, Black Churches 4 Broadband, includes many notable black civil rights church leaders who are activating their congregations to speak up and engage policymakers. You can find them on Instagram and Twitter as well.

The Letter

Dear Vice President Kamala Harris,

As Black Religious Leaders across a range of denominations and religions, we continue to pray at this critical time for the Biden Administration team as a whole, and especially for you as Vice President of this country. We are happy you are leading the White House’s push to expand broadband access in this country.

We write to let you know we believe now more than ever in the need for a permanent broadband subsidy to help more low-income households connect to home internet service.

Getting everyone in the country connected to high-speed broadband (internet) at home is a civil rights imperative. Internet access opens the door to so many pathways critical to our advancement: educational and economic opportunities, family and church connection, health care services, greater civic engagement and activism. Unfortunately, only 71% of Black families and 65% of Hispanic families have broadband service at home compared to 81% of white households (Pew studies).

We are pleased that earlier this year Congress authorized the Emergency Broadband Benefit (EBB) that provides a $50 dollar subsidy and up to a $100 dollar device during the pandemic emergency period. This groundbreaking effort builds on the proven success of private sector adoption programs and public-private partnerships that have connected millions of families through free or discounted service. But the EBB is not a permanent solution.

The Federal Communications Commission reported 2.5 million households have signed up for the EBB since it was launched in May. As a nation, we cannot leave these neighbors hung out to dry when the EBB expires. School-age children, the elderly, and job seeking adults in these households will still need home connectivity even after the pandemic ends. We need a more permanent solution to the issue of making broadband accessible to all.

Black Religious Leaders have played a pivotal role in helping this country live up to its constitutional creed as it relates to civil rights, human rights, voting rights and economic justice. Our churches and houses of worship have been ground zero during this pandemic teaching Black families not only how to access prayer and worship online but also how to access voter information and how to navigate remote learning, telehealth services, job searches, e-commerce, and family hook-ups. This is the work of the Black church in the digital era which does not get the attention of the media.

We can end the digital divide once and for all with a permanent subsidy. We have subsidies to feed those who are food insecure. We have subsidies for those who need help with childcare, home energy and other essential needs. We need a similar program for the internet. We now stand ready to help the Biden team mobilize our communities around digital and information literacy. The future of our families and community depends upon it.

To build a more just, equitable, and hopeful future, every member of our community should share in the opportunities of home internet access.

We are hoping you will help lead this effort.

Rev. Dr. Renita J. Weems

Coalition Leader for Black Churches 4 Broadband

Co-Pastor of Ray of Community Church

Lake Mead Mojave Adventures

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Lake Mead Mohave Adventures (LMMA) proudly announces the receipt of prestigious certifications for its properties at Lake Mead National Recreation Area: the Certificate of Conformance with International Standard ISO 14001:2015 from the National Registrar Team and the Clean Marina designation from the Clean Marine Program.

LMMA’s properties include Hoover Dam Rafting Adventures/Willow Beach Marina & Campground, Callville Bay Marina, Cottonwood Cove Resort & Marina, Echo Bay RV Park, Lake Mead RV Park and Temple Bar Resort & Marina.

To be designated a Clean Marina, marina and yacht club owners and operators meet the challenge of maintaining environmentally sensitive facilities with the goal of preventing and reducing pollution in our nation’s waters. It is one of two such programs not governmentally administered in the United States and has earned the endorsement of numerous industry associations and environmental groups. The Clean Marinas Program’s growing list of members includes 128 facilities around the United States. LMMA’s facilities at Callville Bay Marina, Cottonwood Cove Resort & Marina, Temple Bar Resort & Marina and Willow Beach Marina & Campground have maintained this certification for more than 20 continuous years.

“We are passionate about the quality of our staff as well as about caring for the lakes and rivers in which we operate,” explained Chad Taylor, director of sales and marketing, Lake Mead Mohave Adventures. “It’s a pleasure to be able to ensure all our customers have the best in the business attending to their marina needs, as well as the cleanest and most environmentally sound operations anywhere. It’s our part to play in perpetuating the vitality of this industry and the health of our planet.”

For more information on Lake Mead Mohave Adventures, click HERE.

About Guest Services

Since 1917, Guest Services, Inc. has earned the reputation as a premier hospitality management company and national and state park concessionaire that has taken great care and pride in delivering best-in-class food, lodging, retail and recreation services. The Fairfax, Virginia-based company and its subsidiaries employ more than 3,500 staff at more than 250 facilities, which welcome approximately 30 million guests annually across the United States. Guest Services, Inc. is proud to welcome visitors at Mount Rainier National Park, North Cascades National Park and Lake Roosevelt National Recreation Area in Washington, several parks in the Washington, D.C. area, and state parks such as Bear Mountain in New York, in addition to Missouri’s newest state park in the Ozarks–the much anticipated Echo Bluff State Park. To learn more click HERE.

MARVEL VOICES: COMMUNIDADES

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This October, Marvel Comics is proud to present MARVEL’S VOICES: COMUNIDADES! This latest one-shot in the groundbreaking Marvel’s Voices series will continue the tradition of highlighting the cultural richness of Marvel Comics and uplifting new voices in the comic book industry. Following the success of MARVEL’S VOICES: LEGACY and MARVEL’S VOICES: PRIDE, MARVEL’S VOICES: COMUNIDADES will turn the spotlight to Latinx heroes and creators from the Marvel Universe.

These all-new stories will feature thrilling adventures of some of Marvel’s most popular heroes while celebrating the range of their cultural heritage as told by fan-favorite writers and artists and those making their Marvel Comics debut.

Writer Terry Blas introduces a brand-new hero in an action-packed adventure spinning out of his acclaimed Reptil series.
New York Times best-selling author Daniel José Older revisits the legacy of Marvel’s first superhero of Latino descent, Hector Ayala aka White Tiger, in an inspiring story rooted in real history.
Catch up with the current White Tiger, Ava Ayala, when author Amparo Ortiz has the young hero confront the dark nature of her powers.
Travel to the past with writer Juan Ponce to witness Nina the Conjuror, the Brazilian Sorcerer Supreme of the 1950s, battle the raging nature spirit known as Anhangá.
Plus an introduction by renowned comics scholar Frederick Luis Aldama about the history of Latinx heroes and creators in the comic book industry.

Stay tuned for information on the other stories in this collection including works by Karla Pacheco, Alex Segura, Leo Romero, Edgar Delgado, Nico Leon, and more!

“Marvel Voices has been an amazing force in comics, letting creators from so many backgrounds bring our heritage and identities to Marvel stories,” Pacheco, who recently penned a Marvel’s Voices essay for Marvel.com, said. “I’m honored to bring this very personal story from my own childhood to the book through Robbie Reyes.”

“This is such an excellent project, and I’m very happy to get to be part of it,” Older said. “I’ve read all the Marvel’s Voices collections and loved them, so it’s great to be able to write for one! ¡Pa’lante!”

“Marvel Voices is such a unique project that I feel really drills down on the core Marvel tenet of reflecting the world outside your window, so when the opportunity came to help put together Marvel Voices: Comunidades and celebrate the Latinx community, I couldn’t have been more excited,” Co-Editor Lauren Amaro said. “And that excitement only continues to grow as story pitches continue to roll in, trust me, you’re not going to want to miss out on what this talented group of creators have got cooking up!”

Marvel’s first Latino superhero, White Tiger, was created by writer Bill Mantlo and artist George Pérez in 1974’s DEADLY HANDS OF KUNG FU #19. Since then, Marvel has introduced many heroes of Latino-descent from a multitude of different backgrounds including current stars such as Miles Morales, America Chavez, and Reptil. Join us in celebrating these heroes and many more when MARVEL’S VOICES: COMUNIDADES #1 hits stands on October 20th!

Emporium Arcade Bar San Francisco

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Since establishing a presence in the Bay Area in 2017, Emporium Arcade Bar has become known not only for its vintage arcade games and popular DJ nights, but also for its renowned cocktail program and cultivated, ever-evolving list of the area’s best local craft brews. From sophisticated, ingredient-driven draft cocktails to fun, boozy slushies available currently at the San Francisco location and soon in Oakland, Emporium offers guests an unparalleled beverage experience. In addition, Oakland offers an incredible happy hour Wednesday through Sunday including $1 off draft beers, plus $1 of complimentary game tokens with a drink purchase from 5 to 7 p.m. Emporium is open for guests 21 years or older and is located at 616 Divisadero St. in San Francisco and 1805 Telegraph Ave. in Oakland.

Featured on Emporium Arcade Bar’s innovative house-made draft cocktail menu at both locations is the Summer Mule, a fresh take on the classic Moscow Mule made with Ketel One Vodka, St. Germain, ginger beer, lime and fresh watermelon. For those searching for an eclectic whiskey-based cocktail option, Emporium offers the Sonic Boom Old Fashioned crafted with Bulleit Rye Bourbon, Solerno Blood Orange, Luxardo Maraschino and cherry bark vanilla bitters. Guests can also enjoy classic cocktails mixed by Emporium’s knowledgeable bar crew from a wide selection of both popular and hard-to-find liquor brands, with emphasis on bourbon/whiskey, tequila and mezcal.

To cool off during the warmer summer months, Emporium offers house-made craft boozy slushies providing a refreshing way to beat the heat. Slushies are currently served at the San Francisco location and will soon be available in Oakland. Options include Yoshi’s Island made with Ketel One Vodka, Clement Coconut Rum, pineapple and Tropical Red Bull; Campari Mango Spritz crafted with rosé, Campari, Cocchi Americano and mango; Watermelon Margarita prepared with Volcan Tequila, Triple Sec, lime and watermelon; and Kirby made with Ketel One Botanical Peach and Orange Vodka, Clément Coconut, Coconut Berry Red Bull, blackberry and lemon.

In addition, both locations boast an outstanding, curated selection of rotating local craft beers on tap, including the Laughing Monk Holy Ghost Pilsner by Laughing Monk Brewing featuring aromas of lemon and wheat bread. Also on the menu, the Berryessa Free Kittens Lager by Berryessa Brewing Co., New Glory Gummy Worms Pale Ale from New Glory Craft Brewery, Inhume American IPA by Ghost Town Brewing, True Kölsch from Almanac Beer Company, Passion Pool Sour by Mikkeller Brewing and more.

“We have featured local craft beer almost exclusively at our different locations since we first opened in Chicago in 2012,” said Danny Marks, co-founder, Emporium Arcade Bar. “We’ve continued the same approach in the Bay Area, dedicating almost all our taps to California’s awesome breweries. Special beer events and exclusive one-off brew collaborations have been an important part of our business that we look forward to continuing post-COVID. We want our guests not only to hang out and have a good time playing games and enjoying our amazing local art collection, but also take a deep dive into our expansive drink menu showcasing local flavors, fun cocktails, boozy slushies and many off-the-beaten-path spirits offerings.”

About Emporium Arcade Bar

Emporium Arcade Bar is the quintessential cool place to hang out and have a good time. Originally launched in Chicago in 2012, Emporium now has six locations: three in Chicago (Wicker Park, Fulton Market and Logan Square), two in the Bay Area (San Francisco and Oakland) and one in Las Vegas (AREA15). Emporium Arcade Bar offers unparalleled destinations for all types of games, including classic arcade favorites, pool tables, pinball, foosball and many more. Its passionately curated bar purveys the choicest craft beer selections, an innovative cocktail program and expansive liquor list. In addition, Emporium Arcade Bar showcases vibrant murals by local artists and an ongoing, robust calendar of live shows, DJs and game tournaments.

Anjulie – Big Bad World

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Canadian pop musician Anjulie released the official music video for “Big Bad World” with Canadian director Dan Lemoyne. Dan created a world of stunning projection-based tableau for me to emote against; a personal existential crisis within a planetary existential crisis. Heavy social commentary hidden inside the levity of a whimsical melody on a bed of cinematic sound design. Watch and share on YouTube.

“Big Bad World” is a dark nursery rhyme, nodding to the fairytale concept of the wolf. The chorus is sung as a condescending rationalization to the worst kind of person who justifies their bad deeds by burrowing in the womb of ignorance. Stream on your preferred platform now.

Anjulie said about the song, “Navel-gazing narcissism is rewarded in this constantly connected, depersonalized, and performative world. It’s about turning a blind eye to the horrors of humanity like ecological collapse, terrorism, school shootings, and crippling economic inequality while being distracted by shiny new tech, social media and the incessant gamification of social status.”

About Anjulie

Anjulue Persaud, known professionally as Anjulie, is the youngest of four children and was born and raised in Oakville, Ontario. She became obsessed with music after watching Janet Jackson’s Velvet Rope Tour. Her first big break came in 2009 when she opened for Jesse McCartney. While she’s had plenty of success with songs such as “Boom,” “Love Songs” and “Rain,” she’s also found some major success in TV, and her songs have been featured in shows such as Melrose Place and The Vampire Diaries. Thus far, she’s only released one self-titled album, which came in 2009.

Hunter Echo Makes Disgusting Comments About Millie Bobby Brown

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By: Skyler Johnson

On July 12, TikTok user Hunter Echo–AKA Hunter Ecimovic–made a now-deleted livestream where he jokingly claimed he abused and groomed Stranger Things star Millie Bobby Brown after a picture surfaced of the two kissing. He also went into great detail about their sex life during the course of their alleged eight month relationship when he was 20 and she was 16. While Ecimovic made serious accusations against himself, he still seemed to shrug it off and stated that he didn’t do anything wrong.

To be clear, everything that Ecimovic has said at this time is alleged. We have no clear knowledge of what this relationship might’ve been, and whether or not it even existed in the first place. All we know is what Ecimovic has said and all we’ve seen is one picture that’s surfaced of the two kissing.

There is the question of whether or not the information should have been made public in the first place, looking past who decided to make it that way. After all, the internet has no right to know about Brown’s abuse. Brown shouldn’t be forced to deal the public knowing about her trauma, yet she’s having to deal with people constantly asking if she’s okay. While this is well-intentioned, a lot of survivors don’t want to talk openly about their trauma. This is likely especially for the case for Millie Bobby Brown, who we’re not even sure had any form of relationship with Ecimovic. Yet, people online are treating her like she’s a survivor–which may not be a label she’s comfortable with.

The comments Ecimovic made were obviously gross, but not surprising when directed towards Brown, whose relationships and physicality have constantly been publicized and degraded by the public.

Millie Bobby Brown’s Sexualization

Despite Brown’s young age, because of her popularity and the popularity of Stranger Things, her life and public image have constantly been put into question. This questioning comes from both men who obsess over her physicality and women who have expressed desire for her to be in a relationship with Stranger Things co-star Finn Wolfhard, among others.

She’s gotten attention from people who believe that she’s presented herself, or has been presented, in a sexual way. Critics claim that certain outfit choices she made weren’t “acceptable” because they showed too much of her skin.

Brown’s dating life has long been under a large amount of scrutiny. Everyone knew when she was dating Musical.ly star Jacob Sartorius, and Brown recieved backlash. Some begged her to cheat on him with Wolfhard.

Ultimately, this is a problem for many child stars and celebrities–particularly internet celebrities. With cases like Danielle Cohn and Danielle Bregoli being clear examples, albeit they made more extreme choices. Ultimately, all Brown is doing is wearing dresses and dating people which, obviously, a lot of teenage girls do. But because of her fame, she gets criticized for it.

While bragging about alleged sexual abuse and grooming may seem sociopathic, the American public is so in-tune with celebrities and their dating lives. In this way, it’s not unrealistic that someone would talk about Brown in the way that Ecimovic has. To be clear, this is not me defending the actions of Ecimovic in any way. What he said is still horrendous, especially if his accusations hold any merit. Sexual assault is not something to laugh off with your friends. All I’m saying is that because of the way our society treats teenage girls, Ecimovic’s comments make sense.

The Aftermath (What We Know So Far)

While Brown hasn’t said anything about the situation personally (and she doesn’t have to), her team has made a statement suggesting they’re going to take action. What that exactly means, no one is entirely sure. Though the next step most likely won’t be legal action given everything at this point is hear-say. However, the de-platforming of Ecimovic is possible. Ecimovic’s Instagram and Twitter account have both been suspended, and Ecimovic has made an apology for the livestream. Ecimovic has now suggested that his comments about grooming Brown was a fabrication, but again, we don’t yet really know anything.