After months of pain and uncertainty, justice has finally been served in the case of MarQuis Jackson, a transgender man from Philadelphia. The suspect arrested in this crime has now become a symbol of the city's commitment to protecting the rights and safety of its LGBTQ+ community. This arrest reinforces that no one is above the law, regardless of their identity or background. It also serves as an important reminder that we must continue to stand together and demand justice for all those whose lives have been taken away by violence. Sources have reported that Jackson, a vivacious South Carolina native, was heavily involved in transgender activism prior to his untimely death. Living in Germantown at the time, Jackson's passions included lending support to organizations such as the William Way LGBT Community Center and the Transgender Legal Defense Fund. According to a family member, Jackson was a true life of the party who was "full of life and love." Though he may be gone, Jackson's spirit lives on through the causes he championed and the memories of the people he touched. The murder of transgender individuals is a tragedy that should be given the attention and coverage it deserves. However, a recent episode of Icon City News Commentary raised the issue of how little attention and coverage the murders of trans men receive compared to transwomen. Host Anye Elite brought up an important point, prompting the need for a reflection on why the killings of trans men are often overlooked. It is important to bring awareness to this issue and to give voices and justice to those who have been silenced. Transgender men matter just as much as transgender women, and their murders should not be diminished or ignored. By shedding light on this issue, we can pave the way for more equality and create a safer and more just society for all. For anyone who is looking to stay up to date with the latest and greatest in urban LGBT news and music, then look no further than FunnyMoneyRock. This content platform, powered by Icon City Entertainment, offers a wide range of content for fans of Hip-Hop and R&B. Music lovers can also check out the unique FunnyMoneyRockPlaylist, which is the only professionally curated playlist featuring exclusively LGBT Hip-Hop and R&B artists synced across streaming sites like Tidal, Apple Music & Spotify. The platform also hosts exclusive live shows through their series, FunnyMoneyLive. Through this concert series, queer artists and their fans can come together to enjoy great music in a safe space - all while having a great time! For any questions, comments or concerns, please contact the team at FunnyMoneyRock via email at team@FunnyMoneyRock.com. So what are you waiting for? Get yourself connected with FunnyMoneyRock today - stay informed and entertained in the urban LGBT entertainment world! Content pieces like this article are produced by Icon City producers around the world. Our motto is inclusive urban entertainment. Our mission is to provide visibility to thought leaders of marginalized communities as well as to provide commentary from the point of view of those same audiences on the trending topics of the day. Click here to be featured.

Fear and suspicion have spread across Manhattan’s LGBTQ community after three men were charged with murder in connection with a series of fatal drug overdoses at gay bars. Two people have been killed and the incidents have spurred broader conversations about the use of illegal drugs for incapacitating, robbing, and even killing their victims. Justin Barroso, 30, and Robert DeMaio, 34, stand accused of murdering Julio Ramirez, 25-year-old social worker and John Umberger, 33-year-old political consultant; both men were drugged at Hell's Kitchen bars before being robbed using facial recognition methods. On a recent episode of the Icon City News Commentary, Anye Elite brought up some intriguing concerns regarding the police investigation into the crime. Specifically, he questioned why law enforcement was so quick to dismiss this crime as not being motivated by hate, stating that it seemed entirely possible that both money and sexuality could have played a role in the incident. Elite's skepticism about this determination raises some interesting questions about how law enforcement makes these kinds of judgments, and whether or not they always get it right. Moreover, Elite's admonition to "be careful out there" speaks to the very real concern that incidents like this one could inspire copycats, which is certainly an issue that law enforcement will want to be vigilant about going forward. Content pieces like this article are produced by Icon City producers around the world. Our motto is inclusive urban entertainment. Our mission is to provide visibility to thought leaders of marginalized communities as well as to provide commentary from the point of view of those same audiences on the trending topics of the day. Click here to be featured.

Icon City News and Anye Elite recently took a trip to El Paseo to get an exclusive look inside local Coachella Valley designer Aneka Brown's pop-up store collection at Hotel Paseo. Discover the incredible artistry of the rising star, Aneka Brown, as we dive into her unique fashion pieces available at her pop-up store. Last year, Aneka made her fashion week debut at El Paseo and the event was nothing short of spectacular. The excitement was palpable, as local vocalists like Tony Dodson took the stage and wowed the audience with his talent. This year, Aneka was back to celebrate the one year anniversary of her debut. Nikki G added to the festivities with her 360 Photo Booth, allowing guests to capture fun and unforgettable moments. It was an evening of fashion, music, and celebration - a true testament to the creativity and passion of the fashion industry. Aneka Brown is more than just a talented designer - she is also a passionate community advocate. Her work in the Coachella Valley, which encompasses popular cities like Palm Springs, Palm Desert, and Indio, is focused on promoting equality and civil rights for all. With her unwavering commitment to social justice, Aneka is making a tangible difference in her community. Not content to simply sit on the sidelines, she actively engages with local residents, policymakers, and leaders to push for lasting change. It is clear that Aneka's work is not just about style, but substance as well, and her impact on the Coachella Valley is sure to be felt for years to come. Are you curious about the movers and shakers in Palm Springs? Look no further than Icon City News' "Elite 15" list. Aneka Brown is among this impressive group of thought leaders, influencers, and change makers. The curated list is organized into "blocks" that capture the essence of each region. Whether you're a local or visiting Palm Springs, these individuals are sure to inspire and impress. Click the link to discover who else made the cut and keep up with the latest news and happenings in the city. Content pieces like this article are produced by Icon City producers around the world. Our motto is inclusive urban entertainment. Our mission is to provide visibility to thought leaders of marginalized communities as well as to provide commentary from the point of view of those same audiences on the trending topics of the day. Click here to be featured.

But Has The Damage Already Been Done? What happened to two legislators in the state of Tennessee have left even the most ardent supporters of democracy concerned and uneasy. In a completely unprecedented situation, two lawmakers were removed from office for protesting gun violence - shaking the very foundations of our democratic system. But finally, after a week of silence and upheaval, both ousted legislators have been reinstated to their original positions - with full voting rights restored. Now, we should take time to analyze this near-catastrophe for lessons on how such an atrocity can be avoided in the future – as well as celebrate the championing democracy at work today. The recent precedent of removing state legislators for illegitimate reasons has raised concerns about the potential misuse of power by the Republican-controlled House. This tactic could be used to silence dissent and ultimately deprive large portions of the population of democratic representation. It's important to understand the potential consequences of such actions, as they could have lasting effects on our society and political system. As citizens, we must remain vigilant, holding our elected officials accountable and demanding transparency and fairness in all aspects of government. Only through active participation and an unwavering commitment to the principles of democracy can we ensure that our voices are heard and our rights are protected. Content pieces like this article are produced by Icon City producers around the world. Our motto is inclusive urban entertainment. Our mission is to provide visibility to thought leaders of marginalized communities as well as to provide commentary from the point of view of those same audiences on the trending topics of the day. Click here to be featured.

Earlier this week, a tragedy shook the city of Louisville, Kentucky. Connor Sturgeon, a 25-year-old bank employee, took the lives of five people and injured eight others in a shooting rampage. What is even more chilling is that he had written a note to his loved ones just before heading to work, where he had recently learned that he was going to be laid off. As news consumers, we cannot help but wonder what could drive a seemingly normal person to commit such a horrific act. While details of the case continue to emerge, it is worth exploring the connection between mental health and violence. It is crucial to note that not all individuals with mental health issues are violent. According to the National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI), the vast majority of people with mental illness are not violent. However, studies do show that there is a correlation between certain mental health conditions and violent behavior. For instance, individuals who suffer from severe depression, bipolar disorder, or schizophrenia may experience psychotic symptoms that could lead them to act out aggressively. This is why diagnosing and treating mental health conditions is so important. Unfortunately, the stigma attached to mental illness often prevents people from seeking help. Many are afraid that they will be judged or discriminated against if they come forward about their struggles. This is a dangerous cycle, as untreated mental health conditions can lead to more significant issues over time. Moreover, when individuals feel isolated and ashamed, they may turn to more violent means to express their pain and suffering. To combat this, we must engage in open and honest conversations about mental health. This includes challenging the harmful stereotypes and misconceptions that surround this topic. It means creating safe spaces for people to share their experiences without fear of judgment. We must encourage everyone, regardless of their background or circumstances, to seek help when they need it. At the same time, we need to acknowledge that mental health is only one factor that contributes to violent behavior. Other factors, such as access to firearms, traumatic life experiences, and socioeconomic factors, also play a role. Addressing these issues requires a multifaceted approach that involves collaboration between mental health professionals, law enforcement officials, policymakers, and community leaders. The tragic events that took place in Louisville are a sobering reminder of the need to prioritize mental health and violence prevention. We owe it to ourselves and our communities to become more informed about the issues that surround this topic, and to take action where possible. This means advocating for better access to mental health services, challenging the stigma and stereotypes associated with mental illness, and promoting policies that prevent gun violence. While we may never fully understand what led Connor Sturgeon to commit such a heinous crime, we can work together to ensure that similar tragedies do not occur in the future.

Inside the unveiling of "Sinatra's Curtain" The air was electric at the glamorous star-studded event in picturesque Palm Springs, as patrons got ready to celebrate the work of Carlos Betancourt a talented artist from Miami. Every corner of this luxurious venue sparkled with glittery decorations and VIPs from across the art world were in town for a night that promised to be both entertaining and inspirational. As guests enjoyed cocktails, music and appetizers, conversations about contemporary art filled the air; murmurs of admiration for what is being hailed as an important cultural moment thanks to this Miami artist's masterful creations echoed on through the evening. It’s no wonder why this special event was deemed an absolute must by anyone interested in experiencing or learning more about artistic excellence at its finest! At the event, guests were treated to a tour of the gallery and dispensary before Carlos Betancourt took center stage. He shared his creative process behind Sinatra's Curtain, captivating the audience with stories about how he found inspiration in Frank Sinatra's 1960s era Palm Springs home for his installation. In addition to being visually stunning and thought-provoking, the installation was a comment on how far Palm Springs has come since that era. Icon City News parent company provided media support of the event for those unable to attend in person, allowing viewers from across the globe to take part in the festivities. The night was a total success and left attendees feeling inspired and enlightened about the city's vibrant art scene. The venue Emerald and Sage is the newest dispensary to open in Palm Springs! Our dispensary has something for everyone with a selection of top-quality cannabis products as well as an art gallery featuring works from local artists. Located across the street from Toucan's Tiki Bar and next door to the Palm Springs Hotel, the dispensary is in the heart of all the action. The event concluded with remarks from Mr. Betancourt while mingling and discussing the artwork in front of Sinatra's Curtain. Throughout the night, there were light bites, cocktails and music playing as guests explored the space and marveled at the artwork.

The I Am Legend sequel is finally greenlit and Michael B Jordan will be joining Will Smith in the lead role! Fans of the original movie are excited to see how the story will continue, with Will Smith's character trying to find a way to save humanity from a virus that has turned them into monsters. With Michael B Jordan onboard, it is sure to be an action-packed ride! As Will Smith continues to experience the natural aging process, his filmography is still admired by fans and critics alike. Unfortunately, an altercation between him and Chris Rock at last year's Oscars added an unfortunate blemish on his longstanding legacy in Hollywood. Thankfully, Smith will be given the chance to make a major resurgence with the help of Michael B Jordan. The two actors have been paired together for the upcoming sequel which has generated much enthusiasm among moviegoers due to their undeniable chemistry. As this latest project strives to gain traction, it is obvious that Smith's collaboration with Jordan will certainly put him back into the good graces of both fans and industry professionals. Michael B. Jordan has a lot to celebrate. Not only is his star power rising with the news of him joining Will Smith in an upcoming sequel, but he's also making his directorial debut with the newest installment in the popular Creed series. To further excite fans, they get to witness the pairing of him breakout method actor Jonathan Majors. It’s a great time for black leads in Hollywood, and these stars are at the forefront of that movement. We can only imagine what greatness transpires from this dynamic duo. Ultimately, Will Smith and Michael B Jordan is a powerhouse combination that fans are already starting to get behind. With a roaring backlash over the negative press coverage of Smith's Grammy night debacle, having an Oscar-winning actor come on board is sure to modernize and refresh the series. While details of the plot still remain a mystery, one thing is certain - fans can rest assured that what we will be seeing on screen later this year will be an action-packed adventure starring two of the biggest A-listers in Hollywood. Time will tell if Smith and Jordan can make sparks fly as co-stars, but looking at the trajectory of their careers so far - something tells us they just might! Content pieces like this article are produced by Icon City producers around the world. Our motto is inclusive urban entertainment. Our mission is to provide visibility to thought leaders of marginalized communities as well as to provide commentary from the point of view of those same audiences on the trending topics of the day. Click here to be featured.

Inside the "day after pill" for STDS. Over the past few years, medical researchers have been looking into the effectiveness of using a popular acne treatment to lower the risk of contracting numerous sexually transmitted diseases. Doxycycline is a broad-spectrum antibiotic of the tetracycline class used in the treatment of infections caused by bacteria and certain parasites. It is used to treat bacterial pneumonia, acne, chlamydia infections, Lyme disease, cholera, typhus, and syphilis. Similar to anti-viral medications used to prevent people from contracting the Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV) which is often called Prep short for Pre Exposure Prophylaxis, Doxy Pep is a form of post-exposure prophylaxis (PEP). Although initial studies show a 60% efficacy rate, there's no telling when this treatment will be widely available. Men who have sex with men and transgendered women have been the focus of studies in Seattle and San Francisco. Even users of dating apps like Grindr and Jack'd have reported seeing profiles featuring the #doxyprep hashtag. This research has the potential to be a game changer in the world of public health but more studies are still needed to ensure its safety and efficacy. Apart from the four diseases mentioned above, Doxy Pep is being tested in hopes to prevent HIV transmission as well. In the event of an exposure, it can be taken within 48 hours of the incident. It's a two-week course that includes taking medication every day for seven days, followed by a one-week break, then another seven-day treatment. However, the cost of Doxy Pep can be quite expensive despite the generally low cost of production. The medication must be prescribed and its availability varies from state to state. Moreover, there are still questions that need to be explored in terms of long-term safety and efficacy. Content pieces like this article are produced by Icon City producers around the world. Our motto is inclusive urban entertainment. Our mission is to provide visibility to thought leaders of marginalized communities as well as to provide commentary from the point of view of those same audiences on the trending topics of the day. Click here to be featured.

Will other tech companies follow? A new product update sees social media company Twitter revising its cannabis policy. According to an official release, Twitter's goal is to "enable more brands to participate in the cannabis conversation" The privately-owned social media company will allow advertisers to promote brand preference and informational cannabis-related content for CBD, THC, and cannabis-related products and services. The policy updates apply to certain states, presumably those who have already taken their own steps to decriminalize or legalize cannabis. Twitter's new policy went into effect immediately. Will this help the cannabis industry rebound? Falling marijuana prices, large debt overheads, and competition from illegal sellers are negatively impacting the cannabis industry according to Fortune, causing many businesses to fail in the last two quarters. Owners and corporations are hoping that Twitter's new policy will reverse recent trends. Content pieces like this article are produced by Icon City producers around the world. Our motto is inclusive urban entertainment. Our mission is to provide visibility to thought leaders of marginalized communities as well as to provide commentary from the point of view of those same audiences on the trending topics of the day. Click here to be featured.

See why some are calling for divestment in Florida. The administration of Florida governor and likely 2024 republican presidential nominee Ron Desantis has blocked an advanced placement or AP course focused on teaching African-American studies. The move is part of the right's latest attack on what it deems as "woke culture." The state's Department of Education wrote this month: "The course significantly lacks educational value," adding that they would consider a revised curriculum with lawful, historically accurate content. How The Resistance Is Forming Florida Education Association president Fedrick Ingram and civil rights attorney Ben Crump I'm appalled as a native Floridian, but I'm concerned as a parent, because we have Governor DeSantis, who believes that he was elected to be a king, and not the governor. This is politics 101 inside our classrooms. These are the best and brightest students who would take this class, would have an opportunity to explore advanced placement of African American history, in the same vein that we explore Italian history, or Japanese history, and or AP music theory. -Fedrick Ingram (Florida Education Association President) Attorney Ben Crump held a news conference in from of a U.S. District Courthouse in New York where he announced that he would lead a lawsuit if Desantis refuses to negotiate with the College Board. "You cannot exterminate us, you cannot exterminate our culture, and you can never exterminate the value our children [have] to this world,"

Apollo Bebop and Gucci Mar recently brought hip-hop vibes to the Coachella Valley with their performance at Flat Black Art Supplies in Palm Desert. Local hip-hop aficionado and event organizer Zelaya Divina hosted the Hip-Hop Union event at Flat Black Art Supplies in Palm Desert. Orange County's Santa Ana was well represented as a number of the supporting artists came from the area. Check out the video below for Anye's review. The five members of Apollo Bebop are all self-taught musicians who bring a unique musical energy to each performance. Despite sometimes making mistakes, they always learn from them and keep striving to improve. This growth mindset has enabled them to create a sound that is unparalleled in hip-hop today - blending the best of both genres into one powerful package. Drawing influence from John Coltrane and A Tribe Called Quest, the band's distinctive hip-hop and jazz fusion created an exciting atmosphere for hip-hop aficionados looking for something fresh in the area. Gucci Mar's pop hip-hop sound is sure to get all the hot girls and hot boys dancing and popping they ish. Similar to Apollo Bebop, Gucci Mar reps Santa Ana. Her latest single Yota is on the ICN Music Apple Music Playlist.

A partnership of local organizations spearheaded by Icon City Ent. is calling for more representation of the historic diversity found in Palm Springs beginning with a star for Rat Pack crew member Sammy Davis Jr. ! A part of the famous Rat Pack crew with Frank Sinatra, Sammy Davis Jr. has a history in Palm Springs that is not currently signified. Stars and streets adorned with the names of iconic entertainers from the 50's and 60's are common place in Palm Springs, however, Sammy Davis Jr. has not been bestowed this well deserved honor. Like many other celebrated legacies of the Coachella Valley, Sammy Davis Jr. in his heyday owned a residence in Palm Springs. Check out the video tour of Sammy's desert digs. The video also features a stop by the previous CV residence of another iconic musical figure of color engrained in the history of the area, Nat King Cole.