Jan 18, 2025

US Bans TicTok!!! - Text4Help News

Today the United States took its first step towards regulation of TikTok by outright banning the site for U.S. citizens. This unprecedented move has left many Americans grappling with its implications, raising questions about digital freedom, privacy, and the future of social media in their daily lives.

The Context Behind the Ban

TikTok, owned by the Chinese company ByteDance, has been under scrutiny by U.S. lawmakers and regulators for years. Concerns have largely centered around data privacy and national security. Critics argue that the platform collects vast amounts of user data, which could potentially be accessed by the Chinese government. While TikTok has repeatedly denied these allegations and emphasized its efforts to protect user data, these reassurances have not alleviated the fears of many government officials.

The Government’s Justification

The U.S. government’s decision to ban TikTok is rooted in the belief that the platform poses a risk to national security. Officials have pointed to TikTok’s data collection practices and its potential to influence public opinion through content algorithms. Proponents of the ban argue that it’s a necessary step to protect American citizens from foreign surveillance and manipulation. However, for many Americans, this decision feels like a sudden and significant disruption to their digital lives.

The Immediate Impact

The ban has sent shockwaves through the tech world and American society. TikTok has become a beloved cultural phenomenon in the U.S., especially among younger generations. The platform boasts over 150 million active users in the country, many of whom use it for entertainment, self-expression, education, and even livelihood. Content creators and influencers are now facing an uncertain future as they scramble to find alternative platforms to sustain their communities and income streams. For millions of everyday users, the ban feels like losing a space where they could connect, laugh, and share moments of joy.

The Broader Implications

This decision sets a precedent for how governments might regulate or restrict foreign-owned tech companies. While it raises important questions about digital sovereignty and national security, it also forces Americans to confront the loss of access to a platform that has become integral to their social and cultural fabric. Critics of the ban argue that it stifles innovation and limits Americans’ access to diverse platforms and voices, leaving many feeling disempowered. Supporters, on the other hand, see it as a necessary sacrifice to safeguard national interests.

Global Reactions

The ban has not only drawn attention within the U.S. but also internationally. Governments around the world are watching closely to see how this decision unfolds. Some countries might follow suit, while others may view it as an opportunity to deepen their ties with TikTok. Meanwhile, China has condemned the move, calling it an example of unfair competition and political interference. For many Americans, these geopolitical battles feel distant, while the immediate loss of a beloved app is deeply personal.

What’s Next?

For U.S. citizens, the ban raises immediate and pressing questions: How will the government enforce it? Will this set a precedent for banning other platforms? And most importantly, what does this mean for the future of digital expression in America? For businesses and content creators, the focus will now shift to finding new ways to connect with audiences and maintain resilience in the face of sudden platform changes.

As this story continues to develop, one thing is clear: the TikTok ban has disrupted more than just an app; it has upended a vital part of how Americans interact, create, and share in the digital age. The hope is that future decisions will consider not only security but also the emotional and cultural impact on the people who rely on these platforms every day.

If you’re feeling overwhelmed by the changes and challenges in today’s digital world, Text4Help.org is here to support you. Whether you’re navigating the loss of a platform, looking for mental health resources, or seeking community, text 988 to connect with free, confidential help anytime. Or connect with Text4Help to get the support you need for your next project or idea. Information Technology Access for all Americans.

Feb 14, 2022

Text4Help Media - Eminem takes a knee during Super Bowl halftime show!!!

Eminem performs during the Pepsi Super Bowl LVI Halftime Show at SoFi Stadium on February 13, 2022 in Inglewood, California. / Credit: / Getty Images

Eminem took a knee during the star-studded Super Bowl halftime show on Sunday night, becoming one of the most talked about moments of the year's biggest sporting event.

While performing "Lose Yourself" on Sunday night, the 15-time Grammy winner got on his knee and held his head. It appeared to be a gesture to free agent quarterback and activist Colin Kaepernick, who led kneeling protests in 2016 during the national anthem to bring attention to police brutality and racial injustice. Kaepernick has maintained he's been kept off of the field because of the protests.

Since the former San Francisco 49ers quarterback became a free agent, other players have also taken a knee during the national anthem. In 2017, former President Trump spoke out against the players, saying they were "ruining the game."

But after the murder of George Floyd by a police officer and racial justice protests throughout the country, NBA players and coaches from four teams took a knee during the national anthem in the first set of games in the 2020-21 season.

NFL spokesperson Brian McCarthy said in statement to CBS News that they knew rapper was going to kneel during Sunday's game, disputing a report that the league had told him not to.

"We watched all elements of the show during multiple rehearsals this week and were aware that Eminem was going to do that," McCarthy said. "This was not an area of concern. A player or coach could have taken a knee today and there would not have been an issue."

The halftime show was a star-filled show, with 90s legends like Snoop Dogg, Eminem, Dr. Dre and Mary J Blige taking the stage. According to the Los Angeles Times, the show was a product of the NFL's high profile deal with mogul and rapper Jay-Z.

Following the show, the Los Angeles Rams defeated the Cincinnati Bengals 23-20 after a late-game touchdown.

Read original..

Eminem takes a knee during Super Bowl halftime show

Christopher Brito

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Jan 5, 2022

Text4Help News - Dad killed as he carried daughter’s birthday cake to Texas Chuck E. Cheese

A doting father of two was fatally shot Friday in a Texas parking lot confrontation, holding a birthday cake meant to celebrate his 6-year-old daughter who was waiting for him at a nearby Chuck E. Cheese, heartbroken relatives said.

Antonio Planas -

Calogero Duenes was fatally wounded following a verbal exchange caught on surveillance video with a driver who fled, authorities said.

Duenes, 24, then stumbled into the restaurant in Humble, Texas, where he collapsed, his sister in-law Rosemarie Uresti said Wednesday.

"I feel so sorry for my nieces," Uresti, 18, said. "They have to grow up without a father now. He was a good father. He did everything for them."

Uresti was unable to attend what was supposed to be a family party Friday night, she said.

Amber Uresti, Duenes’ wife and mother of the couple’s children, told NBC affiliate KPRC in Houston that she can't fathom what would cause someone to react with senseless gun violence when Duenes was practically defenseless.

“It’s a tragedy. I really can’t wrap my head around it. Like, I’m hurt. I can’t understand how someone can do that to someone that’s holding a cake,” Uresti said.

“My husband passed without me, without anybody to hold his hand, to comfort him. I want justice. I want justice for my children, for Calogero,” she told the station.

The 25-year-old widow declined to comment Wednesday, saying she was making funeral arrangements with other relatives.

Humble police did not immediately respond to requests for comment Wednesday afternoon.

Police said the suspected shooter fled before they arrived. He was reportedly driving a burgundy Ford, KPRC reported.

Police obtained surveillance video they said showed Duenes’ encounter with the shooter, KTRK reported.

Police said the suspect drove the wrong way down a row of parking spaces and almost hit the victim. The video then shows the two exchange words. Moments later, a witness told police they heard three gunshots, according to the news outlet.

On a GoFundMe page for Duenes, Rosemarie Uresti wrote that her "entire family is devastated in this tragedy. He left behind 2 baby girls, Serina Divine Duenes 6 yrs old & Mallory Elizabeth Duenes 3 yrs old, This is not how we expected to start the new year."

She said Wednesday that Duenes and her sister have been a couple for a decade. Duenes was always a protector — and a consummate jokester, Uresti said.

He worked as a landscaper and helped neighbors with their lawns and household needs, she said. They insisted on paying him, although Duenes often didn't want to accept their money, Uresti said.

The compassion he showed family and friends was also how he treated his daughters, who, Uresti said, were spoiled by him.

"He said, 'I don't care. I didn't have this as a kid. My kids are going to have it,'" she said.

Uresti said his 3-year-old is too young to understand, but 6-year-old Serina knows what happened to her dad.

"Serina cried herself to sleep the other night holding her daddy's shirt and saying, 'I miss my dad so much.'"

Find the original article on NBC Digital

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Sep 11, 2021

TEXT4HELP - YOUTH GIVEN INTRODUCTORY AVIATION EXPERIENCE WITH ORIGINAL TUSKEGEE AIRMEN

Cheryl Walker, founder of YEES WE CAN, surrounded by the youth in the program preparing for their discovery flights. Photos: Paris Brown

Situated on the campus of the University of Maryland Eastern Shore (UMES) an HBCU with one of the four year Aviation Science programs in the nation, YEES WE CAN elite youth are educated in areas of aviation, space exploration, computer technology, and various STEM related fields. This collaboration with UMES provides an exposure to quality education within a nurturing environment designed for young minds to see themselves beyond their here and now but as national, international and even global influencers. - Cheryl Walker YEES WE CAN Founder

YOUTH GIVEN INTRODUCTORY AVIATION EXPERIENCE IN ‘FLIGHT DAY PICNIC’ AT BWI AIRPORT

By Demetrius Dillard | Sep 10, 2021 | Local, News |

In a special ceremony hosted by Avdyne Aeroservices and the East Coast Chapter of the Tuskegee Airmen, Inc. (EECTAI) dozens of youth were given their first glimpse of aviation with lively introductory flights in the second annual “Flight Day Picnic” at BWI Thurgood Marshall Airport on August 28, 2021. The program also featured a number of special guests and presentations, including a few legendary icons who once served in the military as Tuskegee Airmen— namely, George Smith, William T. Fauntroy and Gen. Charles McGee. The event was open to the community, attracted residents from all over Maryland and served as somewhat of a celebratory send-off before children returned to the classrooms for the 2021-22 school year. Aside from listening to remarks from Tuskegee Airmen, enjoying refreshments and additional activities, and having aviation and aerospace science career resources at their disposal, the program’s participants— consisting primarily of youth from the YEES WE CAN (Young Elites of the Eastern Shore West to East Coast Aviation Network) program— had the opportunity to take part in discovery flights.

In simple terms, a discovery flight is one’s introduction to flying. The process typically involves taking short flights alongside a certified pilot or flight instructor, which gives passengers a chance to acquaint themselves with how it is to control smaller aircraft. Unique experiences after this manner are particularly valuable for Black youth— many of whom never imagine flying in a plane or jet due to a number of reasons, from fear of heights to lack of opportunity and resources. The Flight Day Picnic was the first time that the 45 youth in attendance from YEES WE CAN experienced discovery flights. Prior to the ceremony, they have had academics for the last three years but they have not had the chance to fly yet, said Cheryl Walker, founder and executive director of YEES WE CAN. “Today presents that opportunity, and I’m so honored that Mr. Jerome Hodges has made this opportunity available for us, that our youth can now come out and finally get their discovery flight time,” Walker said. “It’s always an inspiration when our youth get to have an opportunity to not only see, but sit, at the feet of our elders, and the elders who have paved such an incredible way for the field of aviation and flight, and opening it up to minorities. “This is a minority group of youth, and they now get to see there was someone 100 years old— or older— who has already done this, the same thing they are now getting an opportunity to do only because they paved the way for that.”

“YEES WE CAN” students range in age from the fourth grade to the 12th grade, added Walker, who grew up as a military child. Some are aspiring pilots and others plan to go into a field of aviation science, be it engineering, computer technology mechanics and a broad spectrum of other related interests.

The Tuskegee Airmen in attendance were recognized during a notable portion of the ceremony. Smith, 94, traced his interests in aviation to the days when he was enrolled in the ROTC program at Howard University. “I think it’s good to give a lot of people the exposure that they need,” said Smith, a native of Washington, D.C., who served in the Air Force during World War II.

Original Documented Tuskegee Airmen in attendance at the event included (l-r), George Smith, Colonel Charles McGee and William T. Fauntroy, Jr. Photo: Paris Brown

S. Williams and Col. McGee

Brigadier General Charles McGee, one of the oldest living and highest ranking members of the Tuskegee Airmen, is among the most decorated and distinguished military officers in modern history. McGee was encouraged to see so many youngsters interested in aviation. At one point, he was in their position and hoped to use his wisdom and insight to influence them to achieve at the highest level, regardless of whether or not they choose to fly as a career. “Looking at all these young folks out here, I’m indeed pleased because as a retired Tuskegee Airman, my goal is to help motivate youth in aviation,” said McGee, a resident of Bethesda. “The young folks are our future and we need to be sure that they are mentored and on the right track.”

William Hollis (center) and Abraham Ali (Right) with Text4Help Advocate Sam Williams II

Gabriel Christian speaks with William Hollis with ECCTAI Members in observance.

William “King” Hollis, a motivational speaker and author based in Atlanta, shared words of encouragement with the youth and handed out free, signed copies of his latest book “The Best Gifts Come from the Bottom.” As an alumnus of Tuskegee University, he was humbled to meet and interact with some of the original Airmen. Abraham Ali of The Frontline State of Mind Youth Network from Virginia was also in attendance. Both men gave motivational speeches to youth one on one pouring into the youth in attendance.

Joining in on the festivities as well was Dr. Roussan Etienne Jr. Director or ZOE Group Foundation a new volunteer supporter to YEES WE CAN who has pledged his support and services to assist Cheryl Walker and team with expanding the YEES WE CAN program. Much more is needed in this effort to give youth exposure to aviation.

Dr. Etienne with William Fauntroy and Friends

The ZOE Group Foundation is a 3-in-1 bridge building foundation that assist charitable, faith-based, education entities and community initiative organizations in economic, community, and personal development endeavors.

Founded by Roussan Etienne Jr. in 2004, the ZOE Group Foundation bridges the gap between government, corporate, and community-based organizations to address grass roots initiatives with corporate marketing savvy.

According to 2020 data from the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, only about 3.4 percent of aircraft pilots and flight engineers are Black. Fortunately, Avydyne Aeroservices and ECCTAI recognize how sorely underrepresented Black Americans are in aviation, and collaborated to provide an indelible opportunity to young people.

Youth from YEES WE CAN preparing to take flight with volunteer pilot Photo: Paris Brown

Sep 9, 2021

Camera Capture Drive-By Shooting Claims Life of 3 Year Old Sister Wounded

N.C. — A child is dead following a drive-by shooting against a northwest Charlotte home.

The shooting happened late Tuesday night at around 11:45pm.

Officers responded to Richard Rozzelle Drive near Brookshire Boulevard, following multiple reports of shots fired in the area, according to the Charlotte Mecklenburg Police Department.

When officers arrived at the scene, they found 3-year-old Asiah Figueroa with a gunshot wound.

Asiah was taken to the hospital where he later died of his injury. His 4-year-old sister was also grazed by a bullet and is expected to survive.

Asiah was sleeping in his bed when he was shot.

A Nest surveillance video from a neighboring home shows multiple gunmen get out of two vehicles and open fire on the northwest Charlotte home.

Police say more than 150 rounds were fired into the residence.

Investigators believe the incident is one of a string of several shootings related to two homicides.

CMPD said information also indicates the shootings have some relation to students at three different northwest Charlotte high schools.

Investigators believe arguments between students are spilling out of school and into neighborhoods — and are looking into high school aged students from the area as suspects in the case.

No further details have been released.

3-year old child killed in drive-by shooting on northwest Charlotte home (usacrime.com)

Put and end to gun violence. Save the live of our youth. Make a choice. Choose life.

Our prayers go out to this family during this time. Please surround this family with love as they begin their healing process.

Sam Williams II

Text4Help Founder

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Found on NBC

Toddler killed in North Carolina shooting, 150 shots fired (nbcnews.com)

Sep 7, 2021

BGR

A new stimulus check is coming next week – here’s when you’ll get it

The IRS distributed $15 billion in August to families with 61 million children, according to the tax agency. That money came in the form of child tax credit payments — the monthly series of checks that give parents a few hundred dollars per eligible child that they have. And another of those new child tax credit checks is just one week away.

This will be the third such payment as part of the six-check series that started on July 15. It will start showing up in bank accounts to direct deposit recipients on Wednesday, September 15. And as was the case with the previous two payments, recipients who get the check in paper form will need to wait a few extra days for it to arrive in their mailbox.

New child tax credit check coming next week

As a reminder, these payments combine to form one half of the overall child tax credit. A benefit that will be completed next year when families also get a companion tax credit.

In order to be eligible for this benefit, a family must have at least one eligible child. And the child or children must fall into one of two age brackets. Either under the age of six, or no older than age 17.

Next week’s stimulus payment will bring the same amount of money that recipients got last time. For every child between the ages of six through 17, each of the six monthly checks will include $250. The amount is $300/month for each child under age six.

There’s also one super-important change to be aware of for the September 15th checks.

Direct deposits turned into paper checks

Because of what the IRS blamed on a technical error, about 15% of families who got their first child tax credit check on July 15 as a direct deposit were sent a paper check, instead, for payment #2. That was on August 15. But the tax agency says this mistake is expected to be resolved with the payment that’s coming next week.

And after next week, there will be three child tax credit payments remaining. Those will come on October 15, November 15, and December 15.

After that, families are also scheduled to get the aforementioned child tax credit in 2022. The amount of that credit can be determined by adding up the six checks received between July and December of this year.

Visit the IRS Child Tax Credit Update Portal to check if you’re set up to receive a direct deposit or paper check next week.

Two other points to know

The IRS also recently shared a couple of other key points to know about the ongoing check distribution. One is that the tax agency will mail out a year-end summary (Letter 6419) that taxpayers should watch out for. If they received the child tax credit checks, that is.

Families will need to hang on to the letter. Because they’ll use it when filling out their 2021 federal income tax return next year. “This is important because, for most families, the advance payments they are receiving during 2021 cover only half of the total credit,” the IRS says. “They will claim the remaining portion on their 2021 tax return.”

The post A new stimulus check is coming next week – here’s when you’ll get it appeared first on BGR.

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A new stimulus check is coming next week - here's when you'll get it • BGR