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Fans Pay Tribute to US Rapper “Takeoff” Shot Dead at 28

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Fans Pay Tribute to US Rapper "Takeoff" Shot Dead at 28

Hip-hop artists and fans have paid tribute to Takeoff, a chart-topping group Migos member who was shot dead in Huston, Texas, at age 28.  Ja Rule, Kid Cudi, Khalid, and Dave all paid tribute on social media, while Rick Ross referred to him as a “young legend.”

Migos is one of the most important acts of their time, pioneering the “Migos flow,” a style of rapping in choppy, staccato triplets.

The band, who announced their breakup earlier this year, had multiple international singles, including Bad and Boujee, Versace, and Walk It Talk It.

The shooting occurred about 02:30 p.m. local time (07:30 p.m. GMT) on a balcony outside the 810 Billiards and Bowling Alley, where Takeoff, whose real name is Kirshnik Khari Ball, was playing dice with his uncle and bandmate, Quavo.

According to police, 40 to 50 people were at a privately held party when someone opened fire. Officers reported finding a huge crowd and a man with gunshot wounds to the head or neck when they arrived. He was declared dead at the site.

According to police, two other persons were hurt and rushed to the hospital in private vehicles.

takeoff shot dead

There have been no arrests.

Houston Mayor Sylvester Turner asked witnesses at the scene to come forward during a press conference on Tuesday afternoon.

“Please step up and send the information to us so we can bring some closure to this family that is currently in pain,” he urged.

Drew Findling, Akeoff’s lawyer, told the New York Times that the rapper’s death was a “devastating loss, particularly for Atlanta,” his birthplace.

There was one “Mr. Findling described Takeoff as having a “calm air,” adding that “the world was beginning to learn about Takeoff.” It was finally his turn to shine.”

On social media, tributes poured in. “Forever a legend, I can’t believe this,” Lil Pump commented on Instagram, while Ja Rule tweeted “love to friends and family” with a dove emoji.

Dave, a Brit Award-winning rapper, posted a sequence of images of himself and Takeoff on Instagram with the caption, “My brother… days we spent together were precious.”

On Twitter, fellow British rapper AJ Tracey stated: “Rest In Peace, Not Takeoff!” commented Atlanta singer Keri Hilson. Love and healing to your brothers, family, and friends. #gonetoosoon.”

Khloe Kardashian, a real personality, stated on Twitter: “This is heartbreaking. Wow! over what exactly? God bless everyone who is suffering. These senseless acts must stop. It’s sad.”

Cole Bennett, a music executive, tweeted, “nothing makes any sense any longer. Nothing at all,”; and Juice Wayne tweeted a Takeoff verse with the caption, “it will never make sense.” “.

“Takeoff was probably the least problematic artist,” actress Masika Kalysha noted. “He doesn’t annoy anyone and stays out of the way.”

rapper takeoff

Takeoff Escaped from Poverty through Music

Migos, comprised of Takeoff, Offset, and Quavo, grew up in Lawrenceville, Georgia, and came to symbolize the state’s capital, Atlanta, which is undoubtedly the spiritual home of trap music.

Takeoff stated that music provided an escape from poverty for the band, who were all connected.

“I used to attempt to make it in music when I was younger. I was grinding, which was exactly what I wanted to accomplish. I didn’t have anything else planned, “He revealed this to The Fader.

“I used to record myself in my spare time. Find a beat… make something for me. I’d wait for Quavo to return from football practice and play him one of my songs.”

Originally known as Polo Club, the band debuted as Migos in 2010 and earned their first hit with Versace, which was remixed by Drake, in 2013.

Their rise was halted in 2015 when Offset was arrested following a police raid on the group’s tour bus following a gig at Georgia State University.

Eventually that year, the group released the mixtape Back to the Bando, which featured the smash song Look at My Dab, which popularized the dabbing dance style, which was later picked up by sports and politicians alike.

They broke over in 2016 with Bad and Boujee, a viral song with quotable lines (“rain drop, drop top”) that created numerous memes.

It was a slow-burning hit, peaking out at number one in the United States two months after its release, partly to an enthusiastic endorsement from actor-rapper Donald Glover, aka Childish Gambino.

“I think they [Migos] are the Beatles of our generation,” he declared at the 2017 Golden Globe Awards. “Bad and Boujee’s music is fly.”

migos takeoff

Takeoff’s absence from that track sparked some debate among fans, but he dismissed it, claiming he was merely unavailable for the recording session.

Culture, the band’s second album, debuted at number one on the Billboard charts in the United States, propelled by its success. The duo partnered with Calvin Harris on Slide, their sole UK top 10 single, the same year.

Culture II, their follow-up album, features production by Kanye West and Pharrell Williams and guest appearances from Nicki Minaj, 21 Savage, Cardi B, and Drake. Another number one in the United States yielded the platinum songs MotorSport, Stir Fry, Walk It Talk It, and Narcos.

Offset began dating Cardi B around the same time, with whom he now has two children, Kulture and Wave.

takeoff

Takeoff was the band’s youngest member and was frequently the quietest in public.

“He analyzes a lot, and I think that’s why his raps are so strong,” Offset told Rolling Stone in 2018. “He’s simply powerful.”

Before reuniting with Migos to record Culture III in 2021, the musician released a solo album, The Last Rocket, in 2018.

However, the band disbanded earlier this year following a disagreement with Offset.

“We stand on real deal loyalty, and sometimes it… ain’t displayed,” Quavo said on the Big Facts podcast earlier this year. “This has nothing to do with a label, documentation, QC, or anything else. This is connected to the three brothers.”

Takeoff and Quavo stayed together and released an album, Only Built For Infinity Links, which charted at number seven in the United States last month.

The pair had released a Halloween-themed video for their tune Messy shortly before Takeoff’s murder.

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Geoff Thomas is a seasoned staff writer at VORNews, a reputable online publication. With his sharp writing skills and deep understanding of SEO, he consistently delivers high-quality, engaging content that resonates with readers. Thomas' articles are well-researched, informative, and written in a clear, concise style that keeps audiences hooked. His ability to craft compelling narratives while seamlessly incorporating relevant keywords has made him a valuable asset to the VORNews team.

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UN Calls For Investigation Into Mass Graves Uncovered At Two Gaza Hospitals Raided By Israel

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AP - VOR News Image

The United Nations (U.N.) Gaza The United Nations has urged for a thorough and reliable investigation into the mass graves discovered at two prominent hospitals in war-ravaged Gaza, which were seized by Israeli troops.

According to U.N. spokesman Stephane Dujarric, credible investigators must be granted access to the locations. Additionally, Dujarric emphasized the importance of ensuring the safety of journalists in Gaza so that they may accurately report on the facts.

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UN Calls For Investigation Into Mass Graves Uncovered At Two Gaza Hospitals Raided By Israel

Volker Türk, the U.N. human rights chief, expressed his deep shock at the destruction of the Shifa medical complex in Gaza City and Nasser Hospital in Khan Younis. He also mentioned the disturbing finding of mass graves in and around these facilities after the departure of the Israeli forces.

The individual demanded impartial and open inquiries into the fatalities, emphasizing that “considering the current atmosphere of exemption from punishment, this should involve investigators from the international community.”

“Hospitals are afforded significant protection under international humanitarian law,” Türk stated. “The deliberate act of killing civilians, detainees, and individuals who are unable to participate in combat is considered a war crime.”

Vedant Patel, the spokesperson for the U.S. State Department, expressed deep concern over the accusations of mass graves at the hospitals and confirmed that U.S. officials have formally requested information from the Israeli government.

The Israeli military has excavated the bodies that Palestinians had previously buried as part of their efforts to locate the remains of hostages taken by Hamas during their attack on October 7th, which initiated the war. The soldiers conducted a thorough examination of the bodies in a dignified manner and promptly returned those that did not belong to Israeli hostages to their original location.

The Israeli military asserts that it eliminated or apprehended numerous militants who had sought refuge within the two hospital complexes, although these assertions could not be independently confirmed.

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CNN – VOR News Image

UN Calls For Investigation Into Mass Graves Uncovered At Two Gaza Hospitals Raided By Israel

On Monday, the Palestinian civil defense in the Gaza Strip said that they had discovered 283 corpses in a makeshift cemetery located within the primary hospital in Khan Younis. This cemetery was established during the recent period of Israeli forces surrounding the hospital. According to the group, during that period, individuals could not inter the deceased in a designated burial ground and instead excavated graves within the hospital premises.

According to the civil defense, certain corpses were identified as individuals who were slain during the hospital siege. Additional casualties occurred as a result of the Israeli military’s incursion into the hospital.

The hospital strikes have decimated Gaza’s health sector, which is already struggling to handle the increasing casualties resulting from more than six months of warfare, according to Palestinian health officials.

The matter of who is eligible or responsible for an investigation remains uncertain.

Dujarric stated that for the United Nations to carry out an investigation, authorization from one of its main bodies is required.

“I believe it is not appropriate for anyone to make premature judgments about the outcomes or the individuals responsible,” he stated. “I believe that the investigation should have both access and credibility.”

Karim Khan, the head prosecutor of the International Criminal Court, emphasized the importance of investigating any offenses committed by Hamas terrorists and Israeli forces during his visit to Israel and the West Bank in December.

According to Dujarric, the unearthing of the graves serves as an additional justification for implementing a cease-fire, resolving the conflict, ensuring increased humanitarian access and the delivery of essential products, providing enhanced protection for hospitals, and securing the release of Israeli prisoners.

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UN Calls For Investigation Into Mass Graves Uncovered At Two Gaza Hospitals Raided By Israel

The Hamas assault that initiated the conflict resulted in the deaths of over 1,200 individuals, predominantly non-combatants, and the abduction of roughly 250 captives. Israel reports that the terrorists currently have approximately 100 hostages and the remains of over 30 additional individuals in their possession.

Local health authorities report that over 34,000 Palestinians have died as a result of Israel’s military campaign in Gaza to eradicate Hamas. Approximately two-thirds of the casualties are comprised of children and women. The devastation of Gaza’s two major cities has resulted in a humanitarian crisis, causing almost 80% of the population in the area to seek refuge in other sections of the besieged coastal enclave.

SOURCE – (AP)

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April’s Pink Moon: When and Where to See It

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April's Pink Moon
A "pink moon" refers to the full moon in April: File Image

Keep a watch on the skies tonight and tomorrow; you don’t want to miss the full pink moon, not the blue moon! According to The Old Farmer’s Almanac, you’ll get the best view about 7:49 p.m. ET.

This is when “peak illumination” occurs. As the full moon rises above the horizon, it will appear brightest and most vibrant to our eyes.

Where should you go to have the finest experience under the pink full moon? The Old Farmer’s Almanac suggests going somewhere with a good view of the open sky. If possible, attempt to select a location where the horizon is not covered by towering buildings or trees.

Although the pink moon will be a stunning sight to behold, it is not as colorful as it appears. It should appear rich amber at first, but it will fade to white as it rises into the night sky.

You may be wondering why it’s called a pink moon when it doesn’t look pink. According to USA now, many of the names we use for full moons now originate in much older Native American traditions. These names were mainly associated with natural events that month.

Pink Moon: Full Moon in April 2024

In April, Phlox subulata, often known as creeping phlox or moss phlox, began to flower. These rosy-hued petals were also known as “moss pink,” which is how the pink full moon got its name.

In February, we watched the snow moon rise in the sky. Last month brought the worm moon, which slightly less appetizing moniker refers to the presence of worms in nature during early spring.

According to Space.com, next month will see the floral moon. This May full moon is named after the abundance of blooms that will appear throughout this spring season.

A “pink moon” is an April full moon named for the early springtime blooms that paint landscapes in brilliant pinks and reds. It’s a celestial sight that signals nature’s rebirth after winter.

The pink hue is caused by sunlight refraction through the atmosphere, albeit it rarely seems that rosy tone.

Still, the name recalls the splendor of spring’s emergence, reminding us of the earth’s natural cycles. For many, the pink moon represents rejuvenation and new beginnings.

FIFA Nears $1 Billion Deal with Apple TV Plus

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Trump Called This Visa ‘Very Bad’ For Americans. Truth Social Applied For One

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MIAMI (AP) – The social media corporation established by ex-President Donald Trump has submitted an application for a business visa program that he aimed to limit during his tenure and that numerous of his supporters desire him to reduce if he were to serve a second term.

Trump Media & Technology Group, the company responsible for Truth Social, submitted an application in June 2022 for an H-1B visa for an employee earning an annual salary of $65,000, which is the minimum wage level permitted by the program. According to federal immigration data, the corporation received approval for a visa a few months after. The corporation asserts that it did not employ the worker.

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AP – VOR News Image

Trump Called This Visa ‘Very Bad’ For Americans. Truth Social Applied For One

The act of applying for the visa highlights the contradiction between Trump the candidate, who has advocated for a protectionist approach that encourages corporations to prioritize American workers, and Trump the businessman, who has expressed his intention to utilize all available means for his companies. The investment firm established by Jared Kushner, who is both President Trump’s son-in-law and a White House adviser, submitted an application and received approval to employ a foreign individual as an associate through the visa program.

According to a statement from Trump Media & Technology Group, the application was submitted when the company was under previous management. However, it is worth noting that the current CEO, Devin Nunes, who was already leading the company, was involved in the application process when it was initially filed with the U.S. Department of Labor.

The company has never employed, and has no intentions of employing, a worker through the H-1B visa program. The company stated that upon discovering the application, which was submitted under a previous management period, the present management promptly halted the process in November 2022.

The cost for corporations to file an H-1B visa petition is approximately $5,000 per employee. Companies have the ability to retract applications even after they have been granted approval. The data maintained by the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services does not include information about visa revocations. However, a representative from the Labor Department, which also monitors H-1B applications, stated that they have no documented evidence of Truth Social submitting a request for withdrawal.

An ubiquitous instrument utilized by technology enterprises.
Technology companies frequently employ individuals through the H-1B program. Prior to assuming the presidency, Trump openly acknowledged his utilization of visas, mostly for the purpose of importing foreign models and a limited number of workers for his hotels and resorts. This information is based on an examination of the petitions filed since 2009.

However, apart from renewing current applications, his companies seemed to have ceased requesting H-1B visas until the creation of Truth Social.

According to the Labor Department, Trump Media & Technology Group submitted an application for an employee to receive a salary of $65,000. The employer is listed as Will Wilkerson, who is a co-founder of the company and a former senior vice president of operations. The employment is located in Atlanta, as indicated by the provided address.

In August 2022, Wilkerson submitted a whistleblower complaint to the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission, accusing the corporation of committing securities breaches. He lost his job, and The Washington Post reported that he is now actively working with federal investigators. His legal representatives stated that he would refrain from providing any comments.

‘I should be prohibited from using it.’
Trump often discusses the influx of migrants who unlawfully cross the U.S.-Mexico border, but his policy agenda throughout his presidency also involved restrictions on legal immigration, such as family-based visas and the visa lottery program.

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Trump Called This Visa ‘Very Bad’ For Americans. Truth Social Applied For One

During a primary debate in 2016, Trump expressed his disapproval of the H-1B visa program, describing it as both “very detrimental” and “inequitable” for American workers.

“To begin with, I possess extensive knowledge and understanding of the H-1B visa.” And it’s a tool that I frequently utilize, even though I should not have permission to do so. “We should not possess it,” he stated. “Furthermore, it is crucial to acknowledge that I am a businessman and I must prioritize my actions based on necessity.”

Three months into his presidency, Trump issued an executive order titled “Buy American and Hire American.” This order instructed Cabinet members to propose changes that would prioritize the allocation of H-1B visas to applicants who were either well paid or highly talented, with the aim of safeguarding American workers. He has previously asserted that the program was utilized by technology businesses to acquire overseas employees at a reduced salary.

Under his administration, a research conducted by the nonpartisan National Foundation for American Policy revealed that the government was intensifying its examination of cases by issuing additional information requests to companies seeking to employ foreign workers and rejecting a higher number of petitions.

The “Project 2025” handbook, created by supporters anticipating Trump’s potential assumption of power, suggests that the H-1B program should be restructured to function as an exclusive mechanism for attracting the most talented individuals at competitive wages, while also ensuring that American workers are not put at a disadvantage by the program.

Nicolas Morales, an economist specializing on labor and migration at the research department of the Federal Reserve Bank of Richmond, stated that over 60% of the total visas granted are attributed to companies in the professional, scientific, and technical services sectors. Morales stated that he has discovered that the visa program has proven advantageous for small enterprises in maintaining their operations.

Participating in and being selected in the H-1B lottery is advantageous for them. “It enhances their likelihood of survival,” he stated. “Over the next five years, small companies that heavily rely on skilled labor are expected to remain active.”

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AP – VOR News Image

Trump Called This Visa ‘Very Bad’ For Americans. Truth Social Applied For One

The applications necessitate employers to affirm that they will furnish foreign workers with equivalent benefits as those provided to U.S. workers, and remunerate them at a higher rate than individuals with comparable expertise and qualifications, or above the standard wage for that particular occupation. Companies are required to notify their workers of the filing by displaying a notice in two locations at the workplace.

A significant portion of the criticism surrounding the H-1B program is to corporations providing foreign workers with salaries that fall under the lower wage brackets. The application submitted by Kushner’s investment firm to employ a foreign worker seems to address the allegation adequately.

The Labor Department approved a document in which Kushner’s investment firm stated that it would provide a salary of $200,000 to this employee. This amount falls inside the highest compensation range for H-1B visas, which are usually granted to individuals who are highly skilled in their industry and hold senior positions. According to recent data from U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services, the company has been granted a visa approval.

Kushner has abstained from joining the Trump campaign and has been actively pursuing his own business ventures by submitting applications for tourism projects in the Balkans.

SOURCE – (AP)

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