by Jonathan P-Wright | Sep 15, 2023 | Latest, Music News, New Music Alert |
Renowned musician, Joyner Lucas, has made a triumphant return to his Massachusetts roots with the official release of his brand new single, “Seventeen“. The music video accompanying the single showcases Lucas’ deep connections to his home turf and serves as a heartfelt tribute to the late Mac Miller.
Lucas’ Return to Massachusetts
In the video, which was released on a Friday, Lucas can be seen immersing himself in the local culture of Northborough, Massachusetts. His interactions with the locals and the familiar environment highlight his deep-rooted connection to his hometown.
Filming at Oh Wow Frozen Yogurt and Smoothies
An interesting aspect of the video is that several scenes were shot at Lucas’ new venture, a frozen yogurt shop named Oh Wow Frozen Yogurt and Smoothies. The shop, filled with enthusiastic customers indulging in various treats, adds a personal touch to the video, reflecting Lucas’ entrepreneurial spirit.
Homage to Mac Miller
The essence of the track is encapsulated in its sampling of Mac Miller’s hit from 2011, “Donald Trump”. This serves as Lucas’ unique way of paying homage to his contemporary.
Lucas’ Connection with Miller’s Music
“The first time I ever heard Mac Miller was the Donald Trump record,” Joyner revealed in a statement. “Soon as I heard the sample and what he did to it, I immediately became a fan. That beat was one of my favorite samples ever. Me being able to use that sample and flip it my own way and pay homage to Mac Miller at the same time is dope.”
This statement highlights Lucas’ admiration for Miller’s work and how it influenced him as an artist.
Reflecting on His Journey
Lucas further added, “Reflecting back to when I was seventeen, it’s crazy to see that I’m making my childhood dreams come true. I’m just trying to inspire others through my music the same way Mac did.”
The Reception of “Seventeen”
“Seventeen” is the latest addition to Lucas’ much-awaited new album. The single follows the releases of “Broski,” “Cut U Off (feat. YoungBoy Never Broke Again),” “What’s That?,” and “Devil’s Work Part 2.”
by Diontae Bussey | Sep 12, 2023 | Business News, Latest, Tech News |
The opioid crisis has been a perplexing issue, baffling scientists for nearly two decades as they have strived to comprehend the ever-changing societal and systemic reasons that induce people to misuse opioids and to pinpoint prospective overdose danger zones.
These painstaking and frequently imperfect endeavors unfold as healthcare providers endeavor to deliver secure, efficient therapy, and other resources to those grappling with addiction.
As both scientists and healthcare providers scrutinize the expansive and enduring influence of the opioid crisis, they are now inquisitively investigating AI (Artificial Intelligence) and pondering, Could AI be the key to ending the opioid crisis?
Tech Adoption in Healthcare: A Slow Process
Healthcare is not a sector known for swiftly adopting new trends; it’s notoriously slow in testing and incorporating novel technology. This hesitance has its repercussions. One study implies that the industry forfeits over $8.3 billion annually because of its reluctance or failure to adopt technology such as sophisticated electronic health records.
Public health scientists and biomedical engineers have been discreetly fostering an AI-driven revolution in medicine, with addiction prevention and treatment being the latest beneficiaries.
However, the costs of the opioid crisis extend beyond financial losses. Since 1999, over 1 million people have perished due to drug-related overdoses. In 2021, 106,699 drug overdose deaths were recorded in America, marking one of the highest per capita volumes in the nation’s history. Approximately 75% of all these overdoses were linked to opioid use, which includes prescribed analgesics such as Vicodin and Percocet, along with illicit drugs like heroin.
Despite the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention and the National Institutes of Health investing billions of dollars into outreach, education, and prescription monitoring programs, the crisis has stubbornly persisted.
The Opioid Crisis: The Human Cost
For the past decade, I have been conducting research on the opioid crisis in rural and urban communities across America, including New York City and rural southern Illinois.
Most of my peers concur, albeit reluctantly, that there’s a considerable amount of speculation involved in pinpointing the complex risks faced by drug users. Which drugs will they acquire? Will they inject, snort, or smoke them? Who, if anyone, will they use around, in case they overdose and require assistance?
But that’s not all. Practitioners also regularly grapple with inconsistent federal and state guidelines on effective treatments for opioid use disorder, like suboxone. They also find themselves playing catch-up with increasingly unpredictable drug supplies contaminated with affordable, synthetic opioids like fentanyl, which is largely responsible for recent surges in opioid-related overdose deaths.
While AI advancements like ChatGPT have captured most of the public’s imagination, public health researchers and biomedical engineers have been quietly brewing an AI-infused revolution in medicine, with addiction prevention and treatment being the newest recipients.
AI Innovations in Opioid Crisis Management
Innovations in this space primarily utilize machine learning to identify individuals who may be at risk of developing opioid use disorder, disengaging from treatment, and relapse. For instance, researchers from the Georgia Institute of Technology recently developed machine-learning techniques to effectively identify individuals on Reddit who were at risk of fentanyl misuse, while other researchers developed a tool for locating misinformation about treatments for opioid use disorder, both of which could allow peers and advocates to intervene with education.
Other AI-powered programs, such as Sobergrid, are developing the capacity to detect when individuals are at risk of relapsing — for example, based on their proximity to bars — then connecting them to a recovery counselor.
The most impactful advancements relate to the reduction of overdoses, often triggered by drug mixing. At Purdue University, researchers have developed and piloted a wearable device that can detect signs of overdose and automatically inject an individual with naloxone, an overdose-reversing agent. Another significant development has been the creation of tools to detect hazardous contaminants in drug supplies, which could drastically reduce fentanyl-driven overdoses.
The Potential Pitfalls of AI in Opioid Crisis Management
Despite the immense potential, there are concerns — could facial recognition technology be used to locate people who appear intoxicated, leading to discrimination and abuse? Uber has already taken a step in developing this kind of capacity in 2008, attempting to patent a technology that would detect a drunk passenger.
And what about dis/misinformation, a problem already plaguing chatbots? Might malicious parties embed incorrect information into chatbots to mislead drug users about risks?
The Fine Balance
Since Fritz Lang’s seminal silent film “Metropolis” in 1927, the public has been fascinated by the idea of new, humanlike technology making lives easier and richer. From Stanley Kubrick’s “2001: A Space Odyssey” in 1968 to films like “I, Robot” and “Minority Report” in the early 2000s, though, these hopeful visions have slowly morphed into a kind of existential dread.
It will be up to not just researchers and clinicians, but also patients and the broader public to keep AI honest and prevent humanity’s biggest challenges, like the opioid crisis, from becoming insurmountable ones.
by Jesse Swindell | Sep 11, 2023 | Latest, Music News, New Music Alert |
Emerging from the vibrant landscapes of South Memphis, Key Glock has established himself as a force to be reckoned with in the world of hip-hop. On September 5, Glock introduced his fans to a new visual masterpiece for his track, “Penny.” The music video, a product of the combined efforts of producers Mannie iL and Swaeze, showcases Glock’s unflinching focus on wealth and the lifestyle it brings.
“Penny:” A Symphony of Swagger and Success
In “Penny,” Glock flaunts his financial prowess through his lyrics. He raps about his high-end lifestyle, including a shoutout to his dentist for the “20 pointers” in his mouth and his recent extravagant purchase that equates the cost of a Bentley. Glock’s lyrics echo his insatiable hunger for success, as he expresses his intention to turn down a 10 million dollar deal, aiming for a billion instead.
Through his lyrics, Glock underlines his unique style, turning heads with his Prada overalls that give him a “hillbilly” appearance. The song stands as a testament to Glock’s ability to juxtapose the commonplace and the extraordinary, getting the listeners hooked to his unique narrative.
The Visual Feast: Living the High Life
The music video for “Penny” complements the overall theme of the song. In the clip, Glock can be seen enjoying the high life, surrounded by his crew on a private jet. The video captures Glock’s carefree and extravagant lifestyle, with scenes of him being in the company of gorgeous women at an indoor basketball court.
Key Glock on Private Jet
The visual narrative of the music video aligns perfectly with Glock’s lyrics, creating a comprehensive portrayal of the rapper’s life and aspirations.
“Penny” is a part of Glock’s album, “Glockoma 2 (Deluxe),” which was released in February. The album, an extension of the original “Glockoma 2,” features eight additional tracks with zero features, staying true to Glock’s independent approach to his music.
The album boasts beats from some of the industry’s most renowned producers, including BandPlay, Tay Keith, Bankroll Got It, Hitkidd, Sledgren, Teddy Walton, DY Krazy, and more. These contributions have significantly enhanced the sonic landscape of the album, making it a well-received LP.
In an interview with “Big Facts,” Glock highlighted his determination to maintain his individuality in a competitive industry. He emphasized the importance of being oneself, irrespective of the environment or the people around.
“I try my best to not be like the next person. Whatever you do, no matter what room you in, no matter who in the room, just be yourself. Don’t try to adapt to the n**gas. Be you,” Glock commented.
This philosophy is evident in Glock’s work. His music videos, including “Penny,” showcase his unique style and approach to music, making him a stand-out artist in the world of hip-hop.
Final Thoughts
Key Glock’s latest music video for “Penny” is a testament to his unique aesthetic and his unwavering focus on success. The video, coupled with Glock’s infectious energy and catchy lyrics, offers viewers a sneak peek into the extravagant lifestyle he leads. It’s a reminder of Glock’s individuality in the music industry and his relentless pursuit of excellence.
To get a taste of Glock’s unique style and swagger, watch the music video for “Penny” below.
by Jonathan P-Wright | Sep 8, 2023 | Latest, Social Justice |
In a shocking incident that gripped the nation, Jermelle English Jr, a Black man from Wisconsin, faced a wrongful arrest at a local Applebee’s. An unfortunate case of mistaken identity led to this brutal episode, sparking widespread outrage across social media platforms.
The Incident Unfolds
The incident unfolded in July, when law enforcement officers from Kenosha, Wisconsin, barged into an Applebee’s, targeting English Jr. They mistook him for a suspect involved in a hit-and-run accident. A video capturing the scene went viral, showcasing English Jr. pinned to the ground, with his 1-year-old baby nearby, as the officers began hitting him repeatedly1.
Misidentification and Charges
English Jr. and the woman accompanying him, Shanya Boyd, were taken into custody and charged with disorderly conduct and resisting police. Boyd faced an additional charge for marijuana possession. The actual culprits, whom the police were pursuing, were later discovered hiding in the Applebee’s restroom2.
Aftermath and Social Media Uproar
The aftermath of this incident was equally tumultuous. Jennifer Harris, the on-duty manager at Applebee’s at the time, recounted the chaotic scene to CBS 58. She expressed her concern for the baby and English Jr., while also noting that pepper spray was used during the scuffle3.
“It was a lot, I was worried for the baby first off, the baby and the gentleman, that was my first concern,” she said.
Harris also mentioned an employee who tried to intervene, urging the police to stop their assault. However, the cops responded by threatening to arrest him too4.
“One employee was trying to get the cops to stop punching him, he was like, ‘Hey, hey, stop, he’s on the ground, stop,’ and they pushed him, pushed my employee, and said, ‘One more word out of you and you’re arrested.'”
Manager’s Dismissal
In a shocking turn of events, Harris was fired by the restaurant chain after videos of the incident surfaced on social media. The management accused her of tarnishing the Applebee’s brand name.
“They told me they can’t trust me and that I didn’t just ruin this Applebee’s name, I ruined all the Applebee’s in Wisconsin’s name by letting these videos get out,” she stated. “I’m not the one who recorded the videos nor let them out on the internet, so I don’t understand. My employees are trying to get the right story out, so how did we ruin the name of Applebee’s?”
The Power of Social Media and Celebrity Influence
The incident, fueled by social media traction, caught the attention of influential figures, including music mogul JAY-Z. Known for his contributions towards social justice, JAY-Z reportedly helped English Jr. secure a strong legal defense5.
Conclusion
The incident at the Wisconsin Applebee’s serves as a stark reminder of the persistent racial disparities in our society. It underscores the power of social media to highlight social injustices and mobilize support. The episode has spurred a renewed call for police reform and accountability, and the fight for justice continues.
by Jonathan P-Wright | Sep 8, 2023 | Business News, Latest |
The United States, a global economic titan, seems to be treading water in the vast ocean of cryptocurrency regulations. Despite the tumultuous year for the crypto industry, marked by scam incidents, company collapses, and layoffs, it’s far from its end. However, the narrative that the US government could potentially obliterate the crypto industry persists, fueled by the media and public opinion. This narrative is not only misleading but also detrimental to the progress of blockchain technology in the country.
The Misconception: Crypto’s Apocalypse
The crypto industry’s recent turmoil has been largely attributed to its own failures. Major industry players had initially pledged self-regulation, but the actions of a handful of bad actors over the past year have extinguished any possibility of such a system. The remaining legitimate crypto companies, despite their resilience and continued operation, are often viewed with skepticism and doubt, likened to the living dead of the digital asset sector.
The Reality: Crypto’s Potential
Contrary to these bleak portrayals, the crypto industry is not dead nor dying. It’s merely undergoing a metamorphosis, navigating through the growing pains associated with any revolutionary technology. The potential of blockchain technology is vast, and it’s beginning to permeate various aspects of the global financial system.
Crypto is more than just a new form of currency; it’s a foundational layer for future global commerce, banking, communication, and individual ownership. This is reflected in its widespread adoption, with hundreds of millions of people worldwide using crypto for various purposes and believing in its potential.
The Regulatory Challenge: SEC’s Approach
The Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) has been heavily criticized for its aggressive approach to crypto regulations. The SEC’s actions, heavily influenced by public opinion rather than a comprehensive understanding of blockchain technology, have been seen as overreaching and heavy-handed, stifling innovation rather than fostering it.
Despite the high stakes, with crypto becoming increasingly integrated into the global financial system, the SEC’s approach remains largely unchanged. This regulatory approach not only undermines the potential of blockchain technology but also puts the US at a disadvantage globally.
The Global Perspective: Crypto Regulations Elsewhere
Other economic powerhouses, such as the EU, UK, Japan, Singapore, UAE, and even China, have introduced or are in the process of introducing comprehensive regulatory frameworks for crypto. The absence of the US from this list is conspicuous, highlighting the country’s lag in addressing this frontier technology at a federal level.
As a result, the crypto industry is rapidly shifting offshore. According to a recent report by Electric Capital, the US’s share of the world’s open source blockchain developers dropped from 42% in 2018 to 29% in 2022.
The Implications: Economic and Technological Consequences
The lack of a fully regulated financial market for crypto in the US contradicts the global economic interdependence observed in other major economies. The risk of losing crypto to other world powers is severe. Imagine if tech giants like Google or Twitter had been founded in a country like China. The internet, as we know it today, would look drastically different.
The Solution: A Path Forward
Despite the slow progress at the federal level, there are promising signs that a clear regulatory framework is on the horizon. A recent draft bill provides a pathway for digital assets that start as securities to eventually be regulated as commodities.
The proposed framework would allow tokens offered as part of an investment contract to remain under the SEC’s purview, while those qualifying as commodities would fall under the jurisdiction of the Commodity Futures Trading Commission (CFTC). There are also ongoing discussions about the classification of an asset as a commodity if it belongs to a decentralized blockchain network.
The Recommendations: Shaping the Future of Crypto
As the US navigates its way towards a comprehensive regulatory framework for crypto, several key considerations come to the fore.
The US government should actively invest in blockchain R&D. The country has a track record of incubating world-changing technology, and this should be no different.
Policymakers should familiarize themselves with the technology. Understanding the fundamentals of the technology they’re regulating is crucial. Other governments, including the European Commission, are already doing this.
The US government should establish a sandbox to experiment with compliant and mutually beneficial ways to engage with the private sector and the technology itself.
Conclusion: The Inevitability of Crypto’s Survival
Predicting the demise of crypto is a misguided narrative. The US, with its history of embracing and regulating frontier technologies, will undoubtedly adapt to the rise of crypto. The industry will only strengthen as meaningful regulations replace the current strong-arm enforcements. The future of crypto in the US is not a question of ‘if’ but ‘when.’
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