Tag Archives: conversation

general

Young Thug Says He Doesn’t Know Who The Alchemist Is

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Young Thug Has Shut Down Hopes for a Collaboration Album with The Alchemist

A recent viral meme sparked excitement among fans about a potential collaboration album between Atlanta rapper Young Thug and legendary producer The Alchemist. The imagined project was described as an “introspective jazz” album, a pairing that quickly gained traction across rap Twitter. However, Young Thug has since put those hopes to rest by revealing that he doesn’t even know who The Alchemist is.

The confusion began when stylist Ian Connor shared a text exchange with Thugger on Twitter. In the conversation, Connor asked Young Thug if he had seen the meme or knew who The Alchemist was. Thug’s simple response was, “No who’s this?” To which Connor replied, “The Alchemist, one of the greatest producers of all time. I’ll kall you when my brain comes up with a plan, but this is sumn that needs to be done.”

It’s unclear whether the conversation continued beyond that point or if Young Thug ever took the time to look up the prolific beatmaker. The Alchemist is well-known for his classic projects with artists such as Freddie Gibbs, Earl Sweatshirt, and Boldy James.

The meme that sparked all the speculation originated from a tweet by Debating Hip-Hop, which imagined the duo crafting an “introspective jazz” collaboration. Fans eagerly embraced the idea, turning it into a widespread joke across rap circles on Twitter.

At ComplexCon, a reporter even took the opportunity to ask The Alchemist about the rumor. Playing it cool, he responded, “I can’t confirm or deny anything, bro. I need that, too. You can hook it up? Talk to him [points to fan]. If he makes it happen, then it’s gon’ happen. It’s on you now, bro.”

For now, while fans continue to hope, it seems a collaboration album between Young Thug and The Alchemist remains unlikely—at least until Young Thug gets to know who Uncle Al really is.
https://www.complex.com/music/a/markelibert/young-thug-doesnt-know-who-the-alchemist-is

general

Voices of Passengers: Why New York Needs a Bus Mayor

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I’ve been taking the bus and subway in New York City for more than fifty years. I live in Jackson Heights with my partner of 24 years, and I spend a lot of time in the Rockaways, where my mom and siblings live. For me, the bus isn’t just a way to get around — it’s how I stay connected to my family, my community, and my city.

Over the decades, I’ve seen how much this city depends on buses. They connect neighborhoods that the subway never reaches, help seniors get to the doctor, students get to school, and workers get to their jobs. But too often, bus riders like myself are left out of the conversation. Our buses have gotten slower, more crowded, and our voices are often ignored by people who don’t understand what it’s like to rely on them every day.

That’s why I became an activist for better transit. During the first Queens Bus Redesign, the MTA proposed cutting or rerouting several lines that my neighbors depend on. The plan was based on the false idea that “no one wants to take the bus.” But in Jackson Heights, that couldn’t be further from the truth.

We have one of the largest Naturally Occurring Retirement Communities in the city. Thousands of older New Yorkers depend on the bus because most of our subway stations aren’t accessible. When those routes were threatened, I helped organize hundreds of riders to show up and demand that our voices be heard.

That fight taught me something I’ll never forget: riders have power! When we organize and speak out, we can make real change.

And now, we have the chance to do it again by electing a mayor who actually rides the bus and understands our daily struggles. That’s why I joined Riders Alliance’s endorsement committee for its first ever political endorsement. As a member of that group, I voted yes to endorse Zohran Mamdani for mayor.

I did it because Zohran represents everything bus riders need in a leader. He’s not just talking about transit — he lives it. I’ve seen Zohran actively advocating for riders in Albany, and on street corners in Queens fighting for better, faster buses and safer streets, long before he ever ran for mayor.

He’s the kind of leader who listens, who shows up, and who isn’t afraid to challenge the powerful interests that slow down progress. He’s bold, honest, and unafraid to say that our buses should be free and fast, that our city should work for everyone, not just drivers.

We need a Real Bus Mayor. Someone who rides with us, who understands that every minute a bus sits in traffic is a minute stolen from a worker, a parent, a student. Zohran is that leader.

Bus and subway riders are the heart of this city, and it’s time we have a mayor who moves with us, and for us, every single day.

*Jim Burke, Riders Alliance Endorsement Committee Member*
https://eldiariony.com/2025/10/27/voices-of-passengers-why-new-york-needs-a-bus-mayor/

entertainment, media

Allen Iverson gives advice to Mavs’ rookie Cooper Flagg

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From one No. 1 NBA Draft pick to another, Allen Iverson has some valuable advice for Dallas Mavericks rookie Cooper Flagg, as well as others just starting their careers in the league.

In a conversation with TMZ, Iverson told Flagg to take things “one day at a time.” He emphasized the importance of giving everything on the court. “The most important thing, and I think this will take care of everything, is playing every game like it’s your last, you know?” Iverson added. “You do that and everything else takes care of itself.”

At just 18 years old, Flagg is the youngest NBA Draft pick since LeBron James in 2003. Following the 2025 NBA Draft, Flagg shared how being drafted by the Dallas Mavericks felt “amazing” and described it as a “dream come true.”

So far, the Mavs have yet to secure a win this season, but Flagg has been making a strong impression. In his NBA debut on October 22, Flagg recorded a double-double with 10 points and 10 rebounds against the San Antonio Spurs. Just two days later, in his second game against the Washington Wizards, he scored 18 points, added six assists, and grabbed five rebounds.

“It was a lot of energy in the building. I thought we were competing at a high level in that fourth quarter and playing the play we want to play,” Flagg said after the Wizards game. “I think we took somewhat of a step in the right direction, but it has to be a lot better. I know I’m kicking myself, I’m not happy and I’m a little upset.”

Flagg continued, “I’m competitive. I love to win. It’s not a great start. We’ve got a lot of film to look at, a lot of stuff to look at, and a lot to improve.”

While the Mavericks have had a rough start this year, LeBron James shared his confidence in Flagg’s future. He pointed out that Flagg is in good hands, being coached by NBA champion and Hall of Famer Jason Kidd and playing alongside several NBA legends.

“He has the benefit, unlike myself, he gets to join a team that’s established with Hall of Fame guys Klay Thompson, Anthony Davis, Kyrie Irving right off the bat. Hall of Fame coach, Jason Kidd. You know, these guys are like, they can give him the whole blueprint while he continues to learn what his blueprint will be,” LeBron said on his *Mind the Game* podcast.

“I think that will be an incredible thing to have that type of presence, that type of leadership, that type of just basketball IQ and knowledge around him every single day from those pieces,” LeBron added. “So, I think he’s going to be amazing.”

The next Mavericks game is tonight at 7:30 p.m. ET against the Toronto Raptors.
https://clutchpoints.com/nba/allen-iverson-advice-dallas-mavericks-rookie-cooper-flagg

education, media, safety

Maine educators standing up to regulate firearms | Letter

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At my school, we train 12-year-olds to throw their laptops at active shooters in order to buy themselves time to run away. There is widespread awareness of school shootings, and schools take measures to address this.

My school’s budget includes $99,213 on safety, including purchasing Crisis Alert, a “wearable mobile panic button for rapid incident response.” Decisions about where we allocate resources are political, and it’s time for educators to join this conversation.

Limiting high-capacity magazines and expanding background checks would keep our children safer. My school’s mission states: “We believe in promoting a safe, caring and ethical learning environment.” This means going to bat for our children by regulating guns.

We take proactive approaches to curriculum, behavior, and academic support. Physical safety shouldn’t be any different. Violence has no place in our schools or in our democracy.

Rebecca Pruente
Portland
https://www.sunjournal.com/2025/10/25/maine-educators-standing-up-to-regulate-firearms-letter/

general

Banks Praises Kai Cenat, Speed After Twitch CEO Leaves Them Off Streaming Mt. Rushmore

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TMZSports.com recently caught up with the co-founder of FaZe, Banks, to get his take on a recent controversy involving Twitch CEO Dan Clancy. Clancy sparked debate after stating that popular streamers Kai Cenat and IShowSpeed were not part of his “Mt. Rushmore of streamers.” However, Banks firmly believes there is no one more deserving than these two.

Banks, who left FaZe in September, shared his thoughts while out in Los Angeles this week. He emphasized the importance of having full context before responding to Clancy’s comments, saying, “We live in, like, a clipping culture. Very narrative-driven, like, I don’t know, like, I need to see the whole conversation.”

In defense of Clancy, Banks explained that Clancy’s idea of the Mt. Rushmore is meant to be more historical. Clancy suggested that although Kai and Speed are hugely popular at the moment, it’s too early to carve their names into his “granite” just yet.

Regardless, Banks made it clear that in his eyes, Kai Cenat and IShowSpeed are currently the best in the streaming world. He confidently named them as his top two picks for the hypothetical Mt. Rushmore recognition: “Kai and Speed are top two dead or alive, for sure.”

When asked who else would make the cut if Banks were to sculpt his own version of a streamers’ Mt. Rushmore, he responded with: “Adin Ross, TFue, RiceGum, and FaZe Adapt.”

Banks’ insight highlights the ongoing debate about who truly shapes the landscape of streaming today — blending current impact with lasting influence.
https://www.tmz.com/2025/10/19/banks-kai-cenat-ishowspeed-mount-rushmore-streaming/

general

Cowboys X-factor for huge NFC East clash with Commanders in Week 7

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The Dallas Cowboys and the Washington Commanders meet Sunday in a critical NFC East showdown at AT&T Stadium. Dallas is currently 2-3-1, sitting third in the division, and desperately needs a win to stay in the playoff conversation.

**Dallas Defense and Running Game Struggles**

The Cowboys’ defense has struggled this season, allowing the second-most points in the league (30.7 PPG). While their running game has been solid overall, it sputtered in Week 6, managing just 31 rushing yards in a loss to the Carolina Panthers. With the team searching for answers, one key solution is finally ready to return.

### CeeDee Lamb: The Cowboys’ Ultimate X-Factor

Wide receiver CeeDee Lamb makes his return after missing three games due to a high ankle sprain sustained in Week 3 against the Chicago Bears. Lamb practiced in limited fashion on Wednesday and Thursday, and by all accounts, he appears ready to suit up Sunday.

Lamb spoke confidently about his return when addressing the media Thursday, confirming he’s prepared to face Washington. Head coach Brian Schottenheimer also expressed enthusiasm about getting his top receiver back on the field.

The numbers illustrate why Schottenheimer is excited: before his injury, Lamb caught 16 passes for 222 yards across three games, surpassing 100 yards in both contests where he played all four quarters.

But Lamb’s value extends beyond statistics. He can beat defenses anywhere on the field — whether with short routes, deep routes, or contested catches in traffic. Defenses must dedicate extra attention to him on every snap, which opens up opportunities for others. This is the true X-factor: Lamb’s presence changes the entire defensive game plan before the ball is even snapped.

### How Lamb’s Return Transforms the Offense

In Lamb’s absence, George Pickens has stepped up brilliantly. Pickens caught nine passes for 168 yards and a touchdown against the Panthers in Week 6, has scored touchdowns in five straight games, and ranks fourth in the league with 525 receiving yards.

However, Pickens’s emerging success actually makes Lamb’s return even more dangerous. Defenses will face a tough dilemma: double-cover Lamb underneath, and Pickens beats them deep; focus on Pickens over the top, and Lamb exploits intermediate routes. Try zone coverage, and both receivers find soft spots while quarterback Dak Prescott picks defenses apart.

This dynamic is what makes Lamb the true X-factor. He doesn’t just accumulate yards and catches—he forces defenses into losing decisions. Everyone on the offense benefits, including tight end Jake Ferguson, who gets cleaner looks when Lamb draws safety help. Even running lanes open up as defenses cannot stack the box.

Lamb’s impact on the offense explains why Dallas struggled so much without him these past three weeks.

### CeeDee Lamb Faces Ankle Injury Test Against the Commanders

For all the optimism, Lamb must prove he’s fully healthy against a solid Washington secondary. The Commanders have been effective in coverage this season and will tailor a specific game plan to contain the Cowboys’ star receiver.

Lamb will need to shake off any rust quickly—Washington won’t make things easy. His ankle injury remains the biggest question mark. High ankle sprains are notoriously tricky for receivers who rely on quick cuts and sharp plants.

While Lamb insists he’s ready and the medical staff has cleared him, Sunday’s game will reveal if he fully trusts that ankle. Any hesitation or reduced mobility could disrupt the precise timing he’s built with Prescott over the years.

Washington’s own injury situation may play in Lamb’s favor. Terry McLaurin, the Commanders’ top receiver, has missed the last three games with a quad injury and will not play Sunday. Without McLaurin, Washington’s secondary has less depth to defend both Lamb and Pickens—a matchup advantage that could prove decisive in this close divisional game.

### The Stakes and Playoff Implications

The stakes in this game extend far beyond a single win. Dallas trails division leader Philadelphia by 1.5 games, and the Eagles haven’t been playing their best football lately. A loss would drop the Cowboys to 2-4-1, putting them three games behind with 11 games left—an uphill climb.

A win, however, keeps Dallas within striking distance and provides momentum heading into the second half of the season.

### Why CeeDee Lamb Determines the Cowboys’ Playoff Hopes

Lamb’s return won’t magically fix Dallas’ defensive woes or suddenly make their running game effective—those problems still require real solutions. But a high-powered offense can mask many weaknesses, at least in the short term.

Sunday will answer the most critical questions: Can Lamb move as before? Does he trust his ankle on sharp cuts? Will his timing with Prescott be spot on, or will it take a few series to click?

His practice reports and comments suggest he’s ready, but game speed tells the real story.

If Lamb looks like himself, the Cowboys have a genuine shot to turn their season around starting Sunday. If the ankle limits him or rust shows up at the wrong moments, Dallas’s margin for error vanishes.

The path forward runs directly through their All-Pro receiver—making CeeDee Lamb the ultimate X-factor in this vital NFC East showdown.
https://clutchpoints.com/nfl/dallas-cowboys/cowboys-x-factor-nfc-east-clash-commanders-week-7

general

Bhagwat Chapter One Raakshas: Jitendra Kumar on learnings from Arshad Warsi, BTS moments and more [Exclusive]

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**Bhagwat Chapter One: Raakshas** stars Jitendra Kumar alongside Arshad Warsi in a gripping crime thriller that’s anything but ordinary.

This isn’t your run-of-the-mill crime drama — it’s got some serious bite. Arshad Warsi plays Inspector Vishwas Bhagwat, a cop who finds himself neck-deep in a string of gruesome murders set against the backdrop of Robertsganj, Uttar Pradesh.

Jitendra Kumar takes on the role of Sameer, a character who definitely doesn’t fit the “normal guy” mold. There’s a lot more brewing beneath the surface with him, adding intriguing layers to the story.

In an exclusive interview, Jitendra Kumar opens up about his experience working with Arshad Warsi and shares insights about the making of the film.

Don’t miss the exclusive conversation to get a behind-the-scenes look at **Bhagwat Chapter One: Raakshas**.

The film is set to premiere on ZEE5 on **October 17, 2025**. Mark your calendars!
https://www.bollywoodlife.com/videos/bhagwat-chapter-one-raakshas-jitendra-kumar-on-learnings-from-arshad-warsi-bts-moments-and-more-exclusive-3266918/

general

Micah Parsons sounds off on officiating when asked about lack of holding calls

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Packers coach Matt LaFleur said he plans to talk to game officials before the team’s game against the Cardinals on Sunday. The Packers are “frustrated” over the missed “egregious” and “blatant” holding penalties against Micah Parsons. The Bengals were called for no holding penalties on 46 dropbacks by Joe Flacco, including on a play when left tackle Orlando Brown Jr. tackled Parsons as he attempted to turn the corner. The Packers’ opponents have been called for holding five times this season. It’s nothing new. Parsons had an 11-game stretch last season with Dallas when he didn’t get a single holding call. He sounded off on the officiating Thursday in a rant that he conceded “might get a fine” from the league office. com. “I think I just got to keep going. That’s part of the challenges. Like, you’ve just got to keep going. That’s bothersome. That worries me. That’s part of being one of the best. That comes with some territory. “There are parts that you hate, and the parts that the league lets go. You can tell how they call the games. They don’t call offsides for offense, but they call it on defense. They won’t call offensive pass interference, but they’ll call defensive pass interference. We know what they’re trying to do. They want to load the points up so fans can be happy. They’ll call defensive holding, but they won’t call offensive holding. Let’s just wake up. It’s just one of those things that we know what the higher-ups is trying to do. The ref will say, ‘I know that’s a hold.’ What? Like, you’re not going to call it? Like, come on. It’s one of those things that I’m over, and I’m just going to have to keep going and just push through it.” Parsons went on to argue that the league’s concern about player safety is one-sided. “We put so much emphasis on protecting the offense. “A guy could be trying to catch the ball and you make a defensive player so he doesn’t catch it, and it’s targeting. It’s a flag now. But a defensive end could be rushing and engaged with another player, and a guy could come blow his ribs out. We’re not considered defenseless. But like we said, it’s an offensive league. I think a lot of the rules are bullshit. A guy damn near hurt [defensive lineman Lukas] Van Ness last week. Like, what are we doing? If you’re going to say it’s about protecting the players, then protect all players. Don’t just protect one side of the ball. I don’t mind guys chipping from the outside, but like running backs want to come and sneak players while we’re engaged with offensive linemen. That’s complete bullshit. That’s not good football. That’s not safe football if that’s what they want to preach.”.
https://www.nbcsports.com/nfl/profootballtalk/rumor-mill/news/micah-parsons-sounds-off-on-officiating-when-asked-about-lack-of-holding-calls