Today, Grammy-nominated artist Fat Joe, along with American workers, union members, employers, and patient advocates, launched a Public Service Announcement (PSA) with “Power to the Patients,” calling on political leaders to prioritize healthcare price transparency. The PSA, aimed at “every elected official and politician in America,” urges immediate action to create a more affordable and equitable healthcare system.
The message is urgent: over 100 million Americans are currently burdened with medical debt, the leading cause of personal bankruptcy in the U.S. The lack of transparency in hospital and insurer pricing allows for massive variations in healthcare costs, often without patient knowledge. For example, recent reports revealed that the cost of the same medical service can differ drastically, with an MRI costing between $300 and $3,000, or a knee replacement ranging from $19,000 to $168,000, depending on the hospital or insurance plan.
“To every elected official and politician in America… the people stand united, desperate for you to listen,” said Fat Joe. “If you’re not advocating for prices and transparency in healthcare… you are compromising every single American across this country. Because when we can’t see prices, hospitals, insurers, and their middlemen charge us whatever they want. Our very own healthcare system is robbing all of us. We just need the prices. That’s how our economy works! If you wanna do right by workers, and employers, and unions… then you’ve gotta to do right by the people they represent and the families who depend upon them. And we gotta hear it. Prices now!”
The call for price transparency isn’t just about cost—it’s about improving quality and accountability. When patients know the prices in advance, they can choose better care at lower costs, and hospitals and insurers are forced to be more competitive and accountable. More than 90% of Americans support healthcare price transparency, but only 34.5% of hospitals comply with current rules requiring upfront price disclosures.
The PSA is part of an ongoing advocacy campaign by “Power to the Patients” to drive legislative action. A bipartisan group of senators recently introduced legislation (S.3548) to strengthen and expand price transparency requirements.
Founded in 2021, “Power to the Patients” is a nonprofit organization dedicated to making healthcare more affordable and equitable by advocating for price transparency and accountability in the healthcare system.
Fat Joe’s PSA aims to give a voice to millions of Americans demanding change, urging lawmakers to enforce these vital transparency measures.
KRS-One wants more love shown to our Hip-Hop legends while they are still alive. Speaking on Fatman Scoop, KRS feels the tributes should have poured in before now.
“It’s a shame we’re talking about him in this way,” KRS said. “Hip hop gotta stop doing that. Only when dudes pass, that’s when they get honored. We should’ve been looking at Fatman Scoop when his career was blowing up. He never got played on no stations or nothing, only DJs that knew would throw his music on.”
KRS-One speaks on the passing of Fatman Scoop and calls out Hip Hop for only honoring rap icons after they die.
Isaac Freeman III, aka Fatman Scoop, legendary DJ and figure within the Hip Hop community, tragically died last week.
The heartbreaking revelation came from Freeman’s tour manager @itspurecold who posted on Insragram:
“I am honestly lost for words… You took me all over the world and had me performing alongside you on some of the biggest and greatest stages on this planet, the things you taught me have truely made me the man I am today. Thank you so much, I love you x.”
In another post from the Reminisce Festival, an event that had Mr. Freeman III scheduled to perform just next week on Sept. 7 added:
“It is with the deepest sorrow that we at Reminisce have received the devastating news of the tragic passing of the legendary Isaac Freeman III, known to us all as Fatman Scoop. This loss has left us all heartbroken.”
In an update to an earlier story, TMZ was first to break the news that Isaac Freeman III aka Fatman Scoop, legendary DJ and figure within the Hip Hop community, has tragically died.
The heartbreaking revelation came from Freeman’s tour manager @itspurecold who posted on Insragram:
“I am honestly lost for words… You took me all over the world and had me performing alongside you on some of the biggest and greatest stages on this planet, the things you taught me have truely made me the man I am today. Thank you so much, I love you x.”
In another post from the Reminisce Festival, an event that had Mr. Freeman III scheduled to perform just next week on Sept. 7 added:
“It is with the deepest sorrow that we at Reminisce have received the devastating news of the tragic passing of the legendary Isaac Freeman III, known to us all as Fatman Scoop. This loss has left us all heartbroken.”
Rest in Power Isaac Freeman III aka Fatman Scoop.
Scary moment when Fatman Scoop, whose real name is Isaac Freeman III, collapsed on stage during a performance at Hamden Town Centre Park.
The incident was confirmed by Hamden mayor Lauren Garrett, who stated that Freeman was “transported by ambulance to the hospital.” Garrett added,
“We will provide updates when they are available. Please keep him in your thoughts and prayers.”
This is concerning and many of Scoop’s fans not to mention the industry are collectively holding their breathe.
There also seems to be footage circulating on social media capturing the distressing moment Freeman struggled to climb onto a platform before collapsing behind a DJ booth.
The music was quickly stopped, and fellow performers on stage addressed the crowd.
The audience fell eerily silent.
What’s more is some screams could be heard as CPR was administered in an attempt to revive Freeman on the scene.
Authorities arrived at 8:33 p.m. and transported the rapper out of the venue on a stretcher.
His current condition remains unknown, though concerned concertgoers were overheard asking if he was okay after witnessing the collapse.
As expected, fans have started flooding social media with messages of concern and support for the hip-hop hype man, who gained prominence in the early 2000s with his 2003 re-release of “Be Faithful” alongside Crooklyn Clan.
In a 2014 interview, Freeman III shared that his nickname, Fatman Scoop, was given to him by his Uncle Jack due to his love of ice cream as a child. Iconic.
If unfamiliar, throughout his career, Freeman has collaborated with numerous artists, including Mariah Carey, Janet Jackson, Whitney Houston, and Missy Elliott, earning critical acclaim. His feature in Missy Elliott’s 2005 hit “Lose Control” won a Grammy for Best Short Form Music Video and earned a nomination for Best Rap Song. That same year, he appeared on Mariah Carey’s hit single “It’s Like That” alongside Jermaine Dupri, which earned her a Grammy nomination for Best Female Pop Vocal Performance.
Just hours before his Connecticut concert, the music video for his latest song with Dyce Payso, “Let It Go,” was released. Prayers up for Mr. Freeman II
Scary moment when Fatman Scoop, whose real name is Isaac Freeman, collapsed on stage during a performance at Hamden Town Centre Park.
The incident was confirmed by Hamden mayor Lauren Garrett, who stated that Freeman was “transported by ambulance to the hospital.” Garrett added, “We will provide updates when they are available. Please keep him in your thoughts and prayers.”
This is concerning and many of Scoop’s fans not to mention the industry are collectively holding their breathe.
There also seems to be footage circulating on social media capturing the distressing moment Freeman struggled to climb onto a platform before collapsing behind a DJ booth. The music was quickly stopped, and fellow performers on stage addressed the crowd.
The audience fell eerily silent.
What’s more is some screams could be heard as CPR was administered in an attempt to revive Freeman on the scene.
Authorities arrived at 8:33 p.m. and transported the rapper out of the venue on a stretcher.
His current condition remains unknown, though concerned concertgoers were overheard asking if he was okay after witnessing the collapse.
As expected, fans have started flooding social media with messages of concern and support for the hip-hop hype man, who gained prominence in the early 2000s with his 2003 re-release of “Be Faithful” alongside Crooklyn Clan.
In a 2014 interview, Freeman shared that his nickname, Fatman Scoop, was given to him by his Uncle Jack due to his love of ice cream as a child. Iconic.
If unfamiliar, throughout his career, Freeman has collaborated with numerous artists, including Mariah Carey, Janet Jackson, Whitney Houston, and Missy Elliott, earning critical acclaim. His feature in Missy Elliott’s 2005 hit “Lose Control” won a Grammy for Best Short Form Music Video and earned a nomination for Best Rap Song. That same year, he appeared on Mariah Carey’s hit single “It’s Like That” alongside Jermaine Dupri, which earned her a Grammy nomination for Best Female Pop Vocal Performance.
Just hours before his Connecticut concert, the music video for his latest song with Dyce Payso, “Let It Go,” was released. Prayers up for Mr. Freeman.
WhyHunger, a non-profit working to end world hunger and the injustices that cause it, announces Amplified Presented by EY – the 2nd annual concert kick-off to its Hungerthon fund-raising campaign, now in its 39th year. The electrifying event coming to New York’s Irving Plaza on Tuesday, October 15 features a range of talent across funk, blues, hip hop, and soul, including iconic Grammy Award winners and Tonight Show house band The Roots, acclaimed guitar prodigy Grace Bowers and her band The Hodge Podge and exciting special guests to be announced.
Committed to addressing hunger’s myriad social and economic causes, WhyHunger – founded by the late singer/songwriting Harry Chapin and radio DJ Bill Ayers in 1975 – has music in its DNA. WhyHunger has partnered with iHeartRadio as the Premier Audio Partner for Amplified to harness the power of music to fuel the food justice movement. Relixmagazine called last year’s inaugural Amplified “a dynamic showcase of sound,” and “a lively and soulful dance party.”
Funds raised will directly support WhyHunger’s work to end hunger and protect the human right to nutritious food. For more information visit WhyHunger.org/Amplified.
The Roots shared, “It’s hard to think of a more worthy goal than helping people worldwide to access food. We’re honored to join WhyHunger for a great night of music and proud to support the work they do – making the world a better place.”
Grace Bowers remarked, “It’s a privilege to support the legendary band The Roots for such an incredible cause like WhyHunger. We’re excited about the opportunity to raise money and awareness for community-led solutions that help feed those in need.”
WhyHunger’s Executive Director Jenique Jones said, “We’re thrilled to hold our second annual Amplified – a joyous celebration of music that raises awareness of our important mission. Nutritious food is a human right, but one often denied. We’re proud of our work worldwide to address the social, environmental, racial, and economic injustice at the root of hunger, and we hope you’ll join us in this ongoing journey toward justice.”
Veteran New York rapper Styles P of the legendary Rap trio The LOX has dedicated over a decade of his career to helping build healthy communities through his health and wellness ventures Juices For Life and, more recently, Farmacy For Life and, more recently, Juice 2 Heal. On Saturday, August 31 2024, the rapper’s nonprofit organization Farma Cares is set to host the inaugural Plant-Based BBQ at the Nepperhan Community Center in Yonkers, New York.
Free and open to the public, the Weill Cornell Medicine-sponsored event will feature music provided by the legendary Large Professor, and a lineup of interactive cooking and juicing demonstrations, kids’ activities, and delicious plant-based meals. As the first event of its kind in Westchester County, the BBQ aims to introduce the community to the numerous benefits of plant-based eating, cancer prevention, and overall wellness in a fun, engaging environment.
This family-friendly event offers more than just great food. Attendees will also gain valuable insights into health and nutrition through expert-led workshops on cancer prevention and the benefits of plant-based diets. The event will play a crucial role in Farma Cares’ mission to provide underrepresented communities with access to health education and healthier lifestyle options. With the passionate leadership of organization co-founders Styles P, Daniel Dapaah, and Justin Leigh Tolbert, Esq., Farma Cares is determined to create lasting positive impacts in the community.
Event Highlights:
12:30 PM – 1:00 PM
• Workshop: Prostate Cancer Prevention and Screening – Speaker: Hassan “Dr. Pooch” Diop (Meyer Cancer Center | OCOE)
1:15 PM – 1:45 PM
• Workshop: Colorectal Cancer Prevention and Screening – Speaker: Tyrone Nero (Real Dads Network)
2:00 PM – 2:30 PM
• Expert Talk: Nutrition and the Importance of a Plant-Based Diet – Speaker: Aiya Aboubakr (Weill Cornell Medicine)
Talk show icon Wendy Williams was recently seen out and about in New Jersey. This marks a rare public appearance but thankfully has sparked positive reactions.
Obviously Williams is known for her long-running talk show, was spotted shopping at the Bolingo Balance shop, owned by Victor Bowman, the son of the late herbalist Dr. Sebi.
According to our friends at PageSix, Williams appeared “sharp, upbeat, and aware” during her visit, a significant update given her recent health struggles.
Williams’ son, Kevin Hunter Jr., accompanied her on the outing and assisted her throughout the visit. While Williams was reportedly “engaging,” it was noted that she was not entirely familiar with the products at the store, prompting her son to explain more about them. Items gifted to Williams included natural remedies like sarsaparilla, contribo, bottano oil, and capsules from Dr. Sebi’s collection.
This sighting comes amid ongoing concerns about Williams’ health.
ICYMI, in February 2022, she was placed under court-ordered guardianship after her bank, Wells Fargo, raised concerns about her well-being. The bank requested an inquiry, leading to a court decision to appoint a guardian to manage her finances, citing fears of “undue influence and financial exploitation.”
Get this, Williams publicly opposed the guardianship, asserting her independence in an interview. “They say that I need somebody to handle my account. And I don’t want that,” she stated. “I want all my money. I want to see all my money that I’ve worked hard for my entire life.”
But earlier this year, Williams revealed that she had been diagnosed with primary progressive aphasia and frontotemporal dementia.
That diagnosis is a big deal and almost identical to what famed actor Bruce Willis is suffering from.
Her diagnosis follows her previous battles with Graves’ Disease, Lymphedema, and other health issues. In response to her health challenges, her team released a statement, expressing that the decision to share her diagnosis was difficult but necessary to raise awareness.
Williams’ struggles have also been the subject of a recent Lifetime documentary, “Where Is Wendy Williams?” However, the film has been criticized as exploitative by her publicist, Shawn Zanotti, and her guardian, Sabrina Morrissey, who described the project as a “blatant exploitation of a vulnerable woman with a serious medical condition.”
We’re wishing Williams the best and this sighting was certainly hopeful.
In a bustling corner of New York City’s vibrant food scene, a unique culinary gem has emerged, captivating the taste buds and hearts of many. Healthy As a Motha (H.A.A.M.), a plant-based Dominican and Trinidadian restaurant, is not just another spot to grab a meal—it’s a movement. With its mission to offer a sustainable and ethical food experience, H.A.A.M. caters to a diverse range of customers, including vegans, vegetarians, and flexitarians. The restaurant’s rich fusion of island flavors has made it a must-visit destination for food lovers and health enthusiasts alike.
We had the pleasure of sitting down with Yesenia Ramdass, the visionary behind Healthy As a Motha, to delve deeper into her journey, the inspiration behind her restaurant, and her passion for holistic health.
The Source: Yesenia, Health As a Motha is truly a one-of-a-kind restaurant. What inspired you to create a plant-based restaurant that fuses Dominican and Trinidadian flavors?
Yesenia Ramdass: The inspiration came from my own cultural heritage and health journey. Growing up, I was surrounded by the vibrant flavors of Dominican and Trinidadian cuisine, but I also saw firsthand how our traditional diets could be healthier. After losing my mother to stage IV kidney cancer, I became even more passionate about holistic nutrition and the importance of what we put into our bodies. I wanted to create a space where people could enjoy the rich flavors of our culture without compromising their health.
The Source: It’s clear that H.A.A.M. is more than just a restaurant—it’s a lifestyle brand. Can you tell us more about the philosophy behind Healthy As a Motha?
Yesenia Ramdass: Absolutely. Healthy As a Motha is all about overcoming the challenges of transitioning to a healthier lifestyle. It’s about making conscious choices that benefit not just our bodies, but our minds and souls as well. The brand represents a holistic approach to health—understanding that what we eat is just one part of the equation. It’s about nourishing the mind with positive thoughts and the soul with good energy. Our restaurant embodies this philosophy by offering dishes that are not only delicious but also align with the values of sustainability, ethics, and wellness.
The Source: You’ve mentioned that you became a vegetarian at the age of 17 after reading “Skinny Bitch.” How did that book influence your journey toward plant-based living?
Yesenia Ramdass: That book was a game-changer for me. It opened my eyes to the harsh realities of the food industry, especially when it comes to animal products. The information was so powerful that I couldn’t unlearn it. It wasn’t just about becoming a vegetarian; it was about making informed choices that align with my values. From there, my journey into holistic health deepened, and I eventually transitioned to a fully plant-based lifestyle.
The Source: Losing a loved one to cancer is incredibly difficult. How did your mother’s battle with cancer shape your approach to health and wellness?
Yesenia Ramdass: Losing my mother was one of the hardest experiences of my life. It made me realize how crucial our health is and how much it can be influenced by our lifestyle choices. Watching her struggle motivated me to dive deeper into holistic nutrition and explore alternative options that aren’t always readily available. It became my mission to share what I’ve learned with others, hoping to make a difference in their lives. Health is everything—without it, nothing else matters.
The Source: Your menu at H.A.A.M. offers a delightful fusion of island flavors. What are some of your favorite dishes, and how do they reflect your cultural heritage?
Yesenia Ramdass: Some of my favorite dishes include the Jerk Tamarind Oyster Mushroom Burger and the Empanadas Trio. These dishes are a perfect representation of the fusion we aim for—combining traditional island flavors with plant-based ingredients to create something both familiar and new. The Bake and Shark is another favorite, offering a plant-based twist on a Trinidadian classic. Each dish is crafted with love and respect for our cultural roots, while also embracing the health benefits of plant-based eating.
The Source: What message do you hope to convey to your customers and the broader community through your restaurant and lifestyle brand?
Yesenia Ramdass: I want people to understand that transitioning to a healthier lifestyle doesn’t have to be daunting. It’s about making small, conscious choices every day that add up to big changes over time. Through our food, I hope to show that healthy eating can be delicious and satisfying, and that it’s possible to honor our cultural traditions while also making choices that are good for our bodies and the planet. Ultimately, I want to empower people to take control of their health and live their best lives.
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The Source: Lastly, what’s next for H.A.A.M? Any exciting plans on the horizon?
Yesenia Ramdass: We’re always looking to expand our reach and impact. We’re exploring the possibility of opening more locations and even launching a line of plant-based products inspired by our menu. Our goal is to continue bridging cultures through clean, plant-based cuisine and to keep spreading the message of health and wellness far and wide.
Yesenia Ramdass’s journey from a young vegetarian inspired by a book to the creator of a thriving plant-based lifestyle brand is nothing short of inspiring. Health As a Motha is more than just a restaurant—it’s a testament to the power of food in healing, nourishing, and connecting us all.
Kodak Black recently shared a disturbing video of him swallowing pills on camera, even though he recently made a public pledge to kick his addiction.
Black took to IG Live over the weekend and spoke about being healthy before holding up two pills to the camera.
The troubled rapper looked as if he swallowed the pills, then declared he was “finna glitch right quick.”
Black spoke about getting sober earlier this year after being arrested several times related to his drug use and unacceptable behavior.
“I remember a point in my life when I was chewing a lot of Percs,” he said back in April. “Bro, I’m proud of myself. I’ve never been this happy in my life. I don’t know where this came from, what the fuck going on.”
He continued, “Before I just went to jail, bro, I was taking at least 100 Percs. My average was 40 Percocets [per day]. I’m telling y’all this man. [It got] to the point where I look at this shit and be like, ‘What the fuck was wrong with me, bruh?’”
ICYMI, Wiz Khalifa was in Romania this past weekend performing at the Beach, Please! Festival in Constanța County and while that’s not really earth shattering news, Wiz, got himself arrested. Apparently, he lit a joint “cannabis under the shape of a craft cigarette,” and supposedly was in possession of additional cannabis. Now out in Romania, recreational marijuana is illegal.
Get this, according to a press release, that was translated thanks to Hollywood Reporter, he was in possession of over 18 grams of weed. Hmm, okay, that’s something.
So Wiz was released from custody pretty fast after the detainment and seems like he got himself a Popeyes chicken sandwich but more importantly issued an apology to the people of Romania.
“Last nights show was amazing,” Wiz tweeted Sunday. “I didn’t mean any disrespect to the country of Romania by lighting up on stage. They were very respectful and let me go. I’ll be back soon. But without a big ass joint next time.”
Glad Wiz is not being treated like an arch criminal. He obviously learned a lesson. On that note, check out his mea culpa below.
