Tag: Lifestyle

  • Danielle Brooks Stars in New Apple TV+ Soul Food Comedy

    Get ready for a delicious new comedy coming to Apple TV+! Beloved actress Danielle Brooks is set to star in and executive produce a brand-new series called “American Comfort.” This exciting project is inspired by the legendary Melba’s, a soul food staple in Harlem that has been serving up community and comfort for over two decades.

    A Star-Studded Collaboration

    This isn’t just any new show; it’s backed by some serious Hollywood heavyweights. Kenya Barris, known for his work on “Black-ish,” is writing and executive producing, bringing his signature blend of humor and heart. And if that wasn’t enough star power, Oprah Winfrey is also on board as an executive producer through her Harpo Entertainment banner. It’s a dream team coming together to tell a story rooted in a beloved community institution.

    The series landed at Apple TV+ after a competitive bidding situation, which just goes to show how much buzz this project is already generating. Brooks will step into the shoes of Melba, the vibrant owner of the fictional restaurant that serves as the heart of the show.

    More Than Just a Restaurant

    Melba’s is more than just a place to grab a fantastic soul food meal. For over 20 years, it’s been a cornerstone of the Harlem community. What started as a neighborhood hangout has blossomed into a renowned destination, with additional locations popping up in iconic spots like Central Park, Grand Central Terminal, and even Newark’s Prudential Center.

    Chef Melba Wilson, the real-life inspiration behind the show, is a James Beard Award-nominated culinary force. She’s built her reputation not just on incredible cooking, but also on her incredible warmth, hospitality, and dedication to community. It’s a spirit that perfectly aligns with Danielle Brooks’ own grounded and big-hearted presence.

    Danielle Brooks: The Perfect Fit

    Fans know Danielle Brooks for her powerful performances, including her Oscar-nominated role in “The Color Purple” and her scene-stealing turn in “Peacemaker” Season 2. Her ability to bring depth, authenticity, and a whole lot of heart to her characters makes her the ideal choice to embody Melba. This casting promises to capture the same vibrant energy that makes Melba’s restaurant so special.

    This collaboration also marks a reunion for Brooks and Winfrey, who previously worked together on the critically acclaimed “The Color Purple.” It’s clear these two have a fantastic creative chemistry!

    Behind the Scenes Powerhouses

    The impressive list of executive producers also includes Carla Gardini for Harpo Entertainment, Aaron Kaplan for Kapital Entertainment, the visionary Melba Wilson herself, director Neema Barnette, and Aisha Summers-Burke for BET Studios. This collective talent ensures that “American Comfort” is in excellent hands, promising a series that is both entertaining and deeply resonant.

    What are your favorite soul food dishes? Are you excited to see Danielle Brooks in this new role? Let us know in the comments below!

  • WHO Sounds Alarm on Escalating Ebola Outbreak

    The World Health Organization (WHO) is sounding the alarm as an Ebola outbreak intensifies in the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) and its neighbor, Uganda. The Director-General, Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus, has expressed grave concern over the rapid spread and alarming scale of the epidemic.

    This outbreak, linked to the Bundibugyo strain of the Ebola virus, is primarily concentrated in the northeastern Ituri province of the DRC. The situation has health officials worried about its potential to spread further.

    Grim Numbers and International Concern

    The numbers are stark: Congolese Health Minister Dr. Samuel Roger Kamba reports at least 131 deaths and over 500 suspected cases under investigation. WHO has confirmed 30 laboratory-confirmed cases in Ituri province alone. Adding to the concern, two confirmed cases have also been identified in Uganda’s capital, Kampala, indicating cross-border transmission.

    The outbreak was officially confirmed on May 15, following earlier reports of a mysterious, highly fatal illness in eastern Congo. Experts believe the virus may have been circulating undetected for weeks, contributing to its rapid expansion. The high positivity rate suggests the true number of infections could be significantly higher than currently reported.

    Highest Alert Level Declared

    In response to the escalating crisis, the WHO has declared the epidemic a “public health emergency of international concern” – the highest level of global health alert. This designation underscores the severity and potential international impact of the outbreak.

    Medical experts are questioning how the outbreak expanded so quickly, especially given the DRC’s extensive experience with Ebola. Dr. Craig Spencer, a physician who survived Ebola in 2014, suggests the actual number of infections is likely much higher than official figures indicate. In response to the growing threat, the United States has implemented temporary travel restrictions for the affected region after a U.S. citizen tested positive.

    Challenges in Containment

    Ebola is known to spread through direct contact with bodily fluids or contaminated materials. Currently, there are no approved vaccines or specific treatments available for the Bundibugyo strain, making containment efforts particularly challenging. While broad travel bans have been criticized by organizations like the Africa Centres for Disease Control and Prevention for potentially hindering economic and humanitarian efforts, the situation demands urgent global attention.

    What are your thoughts on the global response to this escalating Ebola outbreak? Share your concerns and suggestions in the comments below.

  • Black Church’s Leadership Lessons Explored

    Have you ever wondered where some of the most impactful leadership skills originate? For many high-achieving Black professionals, the answer might surprise you: the Black church. Award-winning author and coach L. Michelle Smith explores this fascinating connection in her new book, “Call and Response: 10 Leadership Lessons from the Black Church.”

    Discovering the Source of Strength

    Smith, a seasoned corporate media trainer, had a profound realization late in her career. After a talk she gave went viral, someone asked her where she learned to speak so effectively. Despite her professional background, the answer wasn’t immediate. It wasn’t until she reflected on her childhood that the source became clear: teaching Sunday school at age 14 in her church.

    This personal revelation sparked a larger inquiry: How many other Black professionals developed their leadership instincts within the church? Smith’s informal research soon became a formal study, surveying 155 high-performing Black executives. The results were striking: approximately 82% grew up in the Black church, and a significant majority of those reported learning valuable lessons there that still benefit them today.

    The Black Church as a Leadership Incubator

    Published by JVL, an imprint led by Viola Davis, Julius Tennon, and Lavaille Lavette, “Call and Response” uses cultural analysis, personal stories, and profiles of influential figures – from Martin Luther King Jr. to contemporary entrepreneurs – to illustrate how the Black church has historically served as a powerful incubator for leadership.

    Smith argues that opportunities within the church, such as reading scriptures, leading youth services, and serving on boards like the junior usher board, provided invaluable training in communication, resilience, collaboration, and more. These experiences laid the groundwork for success in boardrooms and industries across the country.

    A Framework for Heart-Centered Leadership

    The lessons derived from the Black church have inspired Smith’s “framework for heart-centered leadership.” She believes this approach is more crucial than ever in today’s complex, stressful, and highly technological world, especially given current leadership trends.

    The book arrives at an interesting cultural moment, as Black church membership declines while communities express concern about the loss of “the village” and third spaces. Smith explores factors like changing post-pandemic habits and younger generations feeling disconnected from organized religion.

    Smith draws a distinction between “The Black Church” with its deep historical roots in slavery and community organizing, and churches that simply have Black pastors and congregants. She traces the evolution of the Black Church from its clandestine origins during slavery through emancipation and the Civil Rights Movement, emphasizing its role as a safe haven and organizing hub.

    Ultimately, “Call and Response” aims to preserve and translate these foundational tenets for a broad audience, regardless of faith. Smith emphasizes that the book offers a way to build leadership muscles – faith, purpose, community, speaking, resilience, collaboration, accountability, social justice, creativity, and economic empowerment – even for those who don’t attend church.

    What leadership lessons from your own upbringing have shaped you? Share your experiences in the comments below!

  • Chris Rock & Ex-Wife Reunite for Daughter’s Graduation

    It was a heartwarming display of co-parenting as comedian Chris Rock and his ex-wife Malaak Compton-Rock came together to celebrate a significant milestone for their daughter, Zahra Rock. The proud parents were beaming as Zahra officially graduated from the University of Southern California (USC).

    A Magna Cum Laude Achievement

    Zahra, who is 21 years old, didn’t just graduate; she did so with high honors, earning her degree magna cum laude. She completed her studies at USC’s prestigious School of Dramatic Arts and the Dana and David Dornsife College of Letters, Arts and Sciences. Her focus was an English degree in Narrative Studies, a path inspired by her lifelong passion for literature.

    Malaak Compton-Rock took to Instagram to share photos from the commencement ceremony, capturing precious family moments. She expressed immense pride in Zahra’s academic journey, writing in the caption, “Congratulations, Zahra! Your mom and dad, and your entire family, are so proud of your extraordinary academic achievements.”

    A Rare Family Reunion

    The photos showed Zahra in her graduation regalia, celebrating with friends, and sharing smiles with both her parents. This public appearance together marks a rare family reunion for Chris Rock and Malaak, who finalized their divorce in 2016 after being married since 1996. Their ability to come together for their daughter’s special day highlights their continued support for her.

    Compton-Rock reflected on the joy of the celebration, calling it “a memory I will cherish forever.” She spoke about Zahra’s deep love for literature and her impressive ability to analyze complex texts, expressing excitement for her daughter’s future endeavors. “The world is so much brighter because of the gifts you carry, and I cannot wait to see all that you will do next,” she added.

    Continued Support and Love

    While Chris Rock typically keeps his family life private, this graduation served as a beautiful reminder of the strong bonds within their family. Malaak emphasized the endless love and support they have for Zahra, cheering her on every step of the way. The family is eagerly anticipating Zahra’s next chapter.

    What do you think about Chris Rock and Malaak Compton-Rock celebrating Zahra’s graduation together? Share your thoughts in the comments below!

  • Plan Unforgettable Gatherings: Event Tips

    Ever wonder what makes some parties legendary while others fade into memory? It’s all in the planning! Moving beyond just having people show up, truly unforgettable social gatherings are about creating an experience. Think active engagement, sensory delights, and making every guest feel like a VIP from the moment they arrive.

    Secrets to an Engaging Event

    In today’s world, where in-person events are back in full swing (80% of attendees prefer them, according to Nunify!), the key is to make them interactive. Forget passive mingling; incorporate elements that stimulate the senses. This could mean hands-on workshops, fun gamification, mood-setting lighting, or even personalized welcomes that instantly make guests feel special.

    Technology also plays a crucial role. While the focus is on live interaction, AI is increasingly used in event production for things like automated networking and predicting attendance. It’s about blending the best of both worlds to create a seamless and engaging experience.

    Essential Event Planning Rules

    • Clearly define your event’s objective.
    • Establish a realistic budget from the start.
    • Leverage technology to enhance the guest experience.
    • Carefully consider and select the perfect venue.
    • Personalize elements wherever possible.
    • Ensure easy access and clear navigation for guests.

    Think about turning a simple house party into a DIY station where guests can craft their own appetizers or desserts. Or, transform a cookout into a friendly ‘cook-off’ competition. These touches add fun and encourage interaction.

    The Power of Personalization

    Personalization is key, whether it’s for a small gathering or a large corporate function. Consider custom name tags upon arrival, personalized table place mats, or even custom swag bags. For bigger events, a booth where guests can create their own custom shirts or apparel can be a huge hit!

    Don’t underestimate the impact of lighting and sound! They significantly influence the mood. Consider dynamic lighting that changes with the atmosphere or time of day. Professional AV teams can create stunning visual displays that truly transform a space.

    Giving Your Event a Purpose

    Events become more memorable when they have a purpose beyond just socializing. Think about the iconic LIVE AID concert, which raised funds for the African famine. You can incorporate a similar spirit by asking for donations for a charity or a loved one, or by hosting a raffle. Turning a birthday or holiday party into a fundraising event adds a meaningful layer.

    Viral Party Ideas from Black Creators

    Inspiration is everywhere, especially from talented Black creators on platforms like TikTok. From elaborate first birthday parties with unique themes (like a ‘Bee Day’ with honeycomb treats and bee-shaped drinks) to Black teens transforming prom into a high-fashion event with themes like #BridgertonProm, these celebrations often go viral for their creativity and execution.

    Even celebrations of life, like Aretha Franklin’s funeral, can become powerful cultural moments, drawing people together with shared memories and tributes. These examples show how thoughtful details and a strong theme can create lasting impressions.

    Corporate Events with a Twist

    Corporate events don’t have to be dull! Balance professional goals with engaging activities. Opt for venues that allow for interaction, especially outdoor spaces like golf courses, which are popular for both corporate functions and weddings. Inject fun with roaming magicians, flash mobs, live music, or stand-up comedians.

    Specialized workshops focusing on wellness, culinary arts, or crafting custom products can also make a corporate event stand out. Gathering employee interests through surveys beforehand can help tailor activities. Consider structuring multi-day events with work sessions in the morning and team-building activities in the afternoon.

    The 5 Key Elements of Event Planning

    • **Arrival:** Ensure a smooth check-in and welcoming process.
    • **Atmosphere:** Set the right mood with lighting, sound, and decor.
    • **Anticipation:** Build excitement before and during the event.
    • **Appetite:** Offer delicious food and drinks that cater to guests.
    • **Activity:** Encourage engagement through interactive elements.

    For arrival, simple gestures like greeting guests at the door, providing clear signage, or handing out custom name tags can make a huge difference. It sets a positive tone right from the start.

    2026 Party Trends to Watch

    The trend for 2026 leans towards authentic, intimate gatherings that blend ‘quiet luxury’ with visually appealing elements perfect for social media. Expect to see: Bold color palettes, a mix of nostalgia and futurism, comfortable luxury aesthetics, and animal themes. Even unique celebrations like pet adoptions or divorce parties are gaining traction.

    By incorporating these event planning tips, you can craft a memorable family reunion, a successful corporate event, or a milestone birthday that guests will be talking about for years. Let your event tell a story and engage all the senses – you’ll have everyone looking forward to next year’s gathering!

    What are your go-to event planning tips for creating an unforgettable gathering? Share your secrets in the comments below!

  • Alabama Senior Earns $2M in Scholarships

    Talk about starting your future off right! Zyreuna Cousette, a high school senior from Aliceville, Alabama, is not only graduating with top honors but has also amassed an astonishing amount of scholarship offers. We’re talking over $2 million! This incredible young woman has been meticulously planning her academic journey since middle school, and it’s truly paid off.

    A Future Charted Since Middle School

    Zyreuna, who graduated as the valedictorian of Aliceville High School’s Class of 2026, boasts an impressive 4.23 GPA. But her success didn’t happen overnight. She shared that her academic path was something she started charting as early as seventh grade, driven by a commitment to excellence that began in elementary school where she never settled for a ‘B’ grade.

    This dedication has culminated in a staggering $2,000,047 in scholarship offers from various colleges and programs. It’s a testament to her hard work, focus, and foresight. Imagine the possibilities that open up with such incredible financial support for higher education!

    Heading to Howard University

    So, what’s next for this academic superstar? Zyreuna plans to attend the prestigious Howard University this fall. Her ambitious goal is to become an obstetrician-gynecologist, a career path that will allow her to make a significant impact on people’s lives.

    Zyreuna’s achievement shines a light on the incredible potential within Black students. Her success story echoes that of other remarkable young individuals, like Lamont Newell, a California teen who overcame housing instability to earn a full scholarship to Columbia University for engineering after being accepted to over 65 colleges.

    Inspiring Future Generations

    Lamont, who credited after-school programs for providing stability, now aims to establish an institution to help other Black students enter STEM fields. These stories highlight the importance of support systems and the power of dedication in achieving seemingly insurmountable goals.

    Zyreuna Cousette’s journey is incredibly inspiring. It shows what can be accomplished with early planning, consistent effort, and a clear vision for the future. We can’t wait to see all the amazing things she’ll do at Howard and beyond!

    What are your thoughts on Zyreuna Cousette’s incredible scholarship achievement? Share your inspiring stories of academic success in the comments below!

  • Michelle Obama’s First Impression of Barack

    We all know and love the Obamas, but their journey wasn’t always a straight path to happily ever after. Michelle Obama recently sat down with Sam Fragoso on the “Talk Easy” podcast and opened up about her very first impressions of Barack Obama, revealing that her initial thoughts weren’t exactly what you might expect.

    Lowering Expectations: The First Photo

    It all started when Michelle, then a lawyer at Sidley Austin, heard about a promising first-year Harvard Law student applying for a summer position. Everyone who met him was raving, calling him “cute” and “amazing.” But when Michelle saw his picture, her expectations took a nosedive. “It looks like he’s gone into a 7-Eleven to take his picture, right?” she recalled, describing the bad lighting. “I was like, I don’t think he’s that cute.”

    She also admitted to having some preconceived notions, thinking, “these are white people that are flipping over an articulate Black man.” Plus, learning he was from Hawaii sparked further curiosity and a mental image of a “nerdy ultraconservative” individual. She was essentially preparing herself for someone she thought she’d understand, but not necessarily be swept off her feet by.

    That Voice! The Game Changer

    Then came the phone call. Michelle decided to introduce herself, and when Barack answered, something shifted. “He had that Barack Obama voice,” she said, a smile playing on her lips. This was completely unexpected, as she had already pictured him as a “dweeb” who might appeal primarily to white colleagues.

    That deep, resonant voice over the phone was, in her words, “sexy.” It was the moment her initial assumptions began to crumble. “Wow, this is Barack Obama. Let me look at this photo again,” she thought, realizing that first impressions, especially based on a bad photo, could be deceiving. It just goes to show how a single conversation, and perhaps a uniquely captivating voice, can completely alter our perception.

    Beyond First Impressions

    The Obamas’ story, documented in their books and the film “Southside With You,” is a beautiful reminder that initial judgments aren’t always accurate. Barack’s journey from Hawaii to Harvard is a testament to his drive, but it was that initial phone call and Michelle’s willingness to look beyond a less-than-flattering photo that truly set their remarkable relationship in motion.

    What’s the most surprising first impression you’ve ever had that turned out to be wrong? Share your stories in the comments below!

  • PBS Doc Explores W.E.B. Du Bois’ Complex Legacy

    Even decades after his passing, the voice and influence of W.E.B. Du Bois resonate powerfully. A new documentary, ‘W.E.B. Du Bois: Rebel With A Cause,’ from Emmy and Peabody Award-winning director Rita Coburn, aims to bring the complexities and enduring legend of this towering figure to life.

    A Life of Passion and Complexity

    The two-hour film chronicles nearly a century of Du Bois’ life, utilizing dramatic retellings by a star-studded cast including Common, Courtney B. Vance, and Jeffrey Wright, with the iconic Viola Davis providing narration. Coburn, who began working on the film in 2022, sought contemporary voices to read Du Bois’ powerful writings, ultimately assembling a team that felt a cultural duty to participate.

    The documentary delves into Du Bois’ multifaceted life: his journey from a free man in the North to encountering deeply entrenched racism across the country, his academic achievements, his advocacy for civil rights and Pan-Africanism, and even his public feuds with contemporaries like Booker T. Washington and Marcus Garvey. It explores his evolution from the Reconstruction era through the 1960s, culminating in his death on the eve of the 1963 March on Washington – a moment often seen as a symbolic passing of the torch.

    The Truth and Its Transformative Power

    Coburn emphasizes that documentaries, unlike narrative films, strive to uncover truth, and the process of finding that truth can be transformative. She found inspiration in Du Bois’ expansive thinking, noting his willingness to challenge presidents and intellectual rivals alike, teaching her to continuously expand her own horizons. The film doesn’t shy away from the personal toll his activism took, including strains on his first marriage and relationship with his daughter, highlighting his humanity alongside his icon status.

    The documentary also examines Du Bois’ significant influence on modern journalism and media. His creation of newsletters and magazines aimed at informing Black Americans from a trusted voice demonstrates his understanding of media’s power. Coburn stresses the importance of good journalism and truth-telling in preventing an ‘insular society.’

    Challenging Perceptions and Sharing Power

    Coburn hopes the film pushes back against the common perception of Du Bois solely through the lens of the ‘Talented Tenth’ concept, which can sometimes be misconstrued as elitist. She argues that the underlying questions about sharing power fairly in America, particularly for Black, brown, and poor people, remain relevant today. The film aims to present Du Bois as a whole person – an intellectual, an icon, and a human being who used every tool at his disposal to fight for his people.

    ‘W.E.B. Du Bois: Rebel With A Cause’ premieres on PBS on May 19 at 9 p.m. ET. Check your local listings to learn more about this essential exploration of a pivotal American figure.

    What aspect of W.E.B. Du Bois’ life or work do you find most compelling? Share your thoughts in the comments below!

  • Abby Phillip Expecting Baby No. 2 Via IVF

    Exciting news from CNN anchor Abby Phillip! She’s officially expecting her second child with husband Marcus Richardson. This joyous announcement comes after a deeply personal journey, as Phillip shared that their baby boy, due in October 2026, was conceived through IVF.

    A New Addition and an IVF Journey

    The couple, already parents to four-year-old daughter Naomi Angelina, are overjoyed about expanding their family. Phillip, 37, shared in an exclusive interview with PEOPLE that their path to a second child was different from their first. “Like so many families, we were able to conceive with the help of IVF,” she revealed.

    She candidly spoke about the emotional and physical demands of the IVF process, expressing gratitude for the successful outcome. Phillip also extended her thoughts to other families navigating similar fertility challenges, acknowledging the difficulties many face.

    Gratitude and Sisterly Excitement

    Phillip shared the news on Instagram with a heartwarming family photo, captioning it, “Here he comes! We are so excited to announce that Baby boy Richardson will be joining our family soon.” She expressed her excitement about becoming a family of four and reflected on trusting ‘God’s timing,’ emphasizing that while wanting something on your own schedule is hard, everything happens for a reason.

    Naomi is reportedly already thrilled about becoming a big sister. Phillip’s colleagues and viewers flooded her post with congratulatory messages, celebrating this wonderful personal milestone.

    Balancing Motherhood and a Demanding Career

    This news adds another significant chapter to Phillip’s already accomplished career. Known for her high-profile political coverage and interviews at CNN, she has become a recognizable face on the network. She has previously spoken about the challenges of balancing motherhood with her demanding role, recalling covering the intense aftermath of the 2020 presidential election while experiencing severe morning sickness.

    Her journey through pregnancy and IVF highlights the strength and resilience she possesses, both personally and professionally. As she prepares to welcome her second child, Phillip continues to inspire many with her honesty and grace.

    Are you or someone you know navigating fertility challenges? Share your thoughts or experiences in the comments below.

  • Haitian Flag Day: More Than Just a Celebration

    Every year on May 18th, communities across the globe come alive with the vibrant colors of red and blue. Haitian Flag Day is more than just a date on the calendar; it’s a powerful reminder of a nation’s revolutionary spirit, its rich history, and the enduring joy of its people. For Haitians living far from the island, these celebrations offer a profound sense of ‘home,’ even thousands of miles away.

    A Symbol of Freedom and Resistance

    The origins of Haitian Flag Day trace back to May 18, 1803, when Jean-Jacques Dessalines famously tore the white from the French flag, symbolizing a definitive break from colonial rule. This act created the first version of the Haitian flag, representing the first free Black republic in the world. Today, the parades, parties, and concerts filled with the sounds of Konpa and Raboday are not just festivities; they are acts of cultural preservation and a testament to the resilience that defines Haiti.

    Activist and author Monique Clesca emphasizes that Haitian Flag Day is about more than just aesthetics. “It really was about the fact that we are humans, and we demand that our human rights are respected,” she told theGrio. Clesca highlights the importance of showcasing Haiti’s beauty and joy, countering the often negative narrative that dominates headlines. Her book, “Silence and Resistance: Memoir of a Girlhood in Haiti,” aims to share the Haiti she knew and loved – a place of vibrant culture and deep pride.

    The Evolving Symbolism of the Haitian Flag

    The Haitian flag has undergone several transformations throughout history, with each iteration carrying significant meaning. The initial blue and red bands represented the unity of African residents and those of mixed descent fighting for freedom. Later versions, including the black and red flag adopted during the Duvalier era, reflected different political and social moments.

    The current blue and red flag, reestablished after 1986, features the nation’s motto, “L’Union fait la Force” (Unity Makes Strength). Every stitch and color shift serves as a powerful reflection of Haiti’s history, its people, and the ongoing struggle for freedom and recognition.

    Beyond Misconceptions: Haiti’s Richness

    Clesca challenges the common misconception that Haiti is solely defined by poverty. “Haiti, in terms of its geography, is an absolutely mesmerizing country,” she states, highlighting its stunning landscapes, vibrant music, theater, and the pervasive humor found in everyday life. She believes that while economic challenges exist, often due to leadership issues, Haiti’s cultural and geographical richness is unparalleled.

    So, when you see Haitians celebrating their flag, remember it’s more than just a party. It’s a connection to ancestors who fought for freedom, a grandmother’s hope carried across oceans, and the vibrant cultural heritage passed down through generations. It’s a complex pride, holding both grief and glory, and an enduring love for an island that continues to produce people of extraordinary beauty, brilliance, and resilience.

    How do you celebrate your heritage? What does Haitian Flag Day mean to you or the Haitian community you know? Share your thoughts and experiences in the comments below!