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  • What Happened to Darius McCrary? Court Appearance Details

    Darius McCrary, the actor who played Eddie Winslow on the hit TV show Family Matters, is back in the news because of recent trouble with the law. Fans are searching for answers after his strange court appearance made headlines. Here is what we know about the actor’s legal situation, including his bail status and what happens next.

    Why Was Darius McCrary Arrested?

    The actor was arrested on October 5, 2025, while trying to cross the border into the United States in San Diego, California. The arrest was made because of an arrest warrant from the state of Michigan. This warrant was issued because McCrary missed a court date connected to a child support dispute case. The charges are related to failing to appear in court over the ongoing money issue.

    His representative has said that McCrary missed the court date because he had the COVID virus and could not check his mail. They also said he was at the border because he was doing good work, helping to build homes for people without shelter in Tijuana, Mexico.

    A Confusing Day in Court

    When Darius McCrary appeared in a San Diego courtroom, things became complicated. He told the judge he wanted to speak for himself instead of hiring a lawyer.

    During the hearing, McCrary kept telling the judge that he was there on a “special appearance.” This confused the judge, who had to ask him several times what he meant. The judge eventually had to step in and named a public defender, which is a free lawyer, to help the actor. The judge said this was needed because McCrary seemed “unable to understand” the legal rules of the court.

    Denied Bail and Extradition

    The court hearing ended with two important decisions for the Family Matters star.

    First, the judge denied bail for McCrary. This means he will stay in jail while waiting for the next steps in his case.

    Second, he agreed to be sent back to Michigan to face the child support charges. This process is called extradition. Authorities from Michigan now have about 30 days to come to San Diego to pick him up and take him to Michigan.

    This is not the first time the star has faced issues with these charges. Records show that this is the third time McCrary has been arrested for charges related to this case. As the case moves forward, the actor’s team says they are ready to fight the charges in Michigan.

  • SNAP Benefit Delays and New Rules Affecting Texas Families

    Let’s be real: grocery shopping feels like a luxury these days. Whether you’re working a full-time job or hustling two part-time gigs, watching the price of a dozen eggs climb higher is enough to stress anyone out. If you’re one of the many hardworking Texans who rely on the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) to help keep food on the table, you need to pay attention to two major updates happening right now in October and leading up to November 1st.

    The Immediate Crisis: SNAP Benefits Delay Due to Government Shutdown

    First, let’s talk about the immediate, frustrating news: The federal government has ordered Texas to delay November SNAP benefits due to the possibility of a government shutdown and a gap in funding.

    This delay leaves many families in limbo, especially those in the “ALICE” category—people who are Asset Limited, Income Constrained, and Employed. These are people who are working but still don’t earn enough to handle high costs without help. Right now, there is no clear timeline on when the funds will be released, meaning families are sitting in a tough spot while they wait. If the shutdown continues into November, your food assistance is absolutely at risk.

    The Big November 1st Rule Change

    Even if the shutdown resolves, major, permanent changes to SNAP eligibility rules are kicking in on November 1st across Texas. This is all thanks to new federal law tightening work requirements for able-bodied adults without dependents (also known as ABAWDs).

    Here are the two key changes you need to know about starting November 1st:

    1. Older Adults Need to Work: The age requirement for work rules is expanding. Able-bodied adults up to 64 years old must now show they are working at least 20 hours a week to receive SNAP benefits for more than three months in a three-year period. Previously, the age cutoff was lower.
    2. Parents of Teens: The age for the child-care exemption is changing. If you are caring for a child, you are generally exempt from the work rules. However, the age limit for this exemption is being lowered from 18 to 14. This means that if you are a parent of a teen who is 15, 16, or 17 years old, you may now be required to meet the 20-hour-a-week work requirement to keep your benefits.

    What You Should Do Next

    These changes are serious, and it means thousands of Texans will need to adjust their schedules or find a second job just to keep their families fed.

    Your best move right now is to reach out:

    • Call your case worker immediately to understand how the new November 1st rules affect your household specifically.
    • Dial 211 to get connected to Health and Human Services and other community resources in your area.

    For working families, SNAP is a lifeline, not a handout. Stay informed and don’t hesitate to contact the appropriate resources to make sure you and your family are ready for these big changes.

  • Government Shutdown Layoffs: How Special Education Was Affected

    When the government shutdown happened, it left many Americans confused and worried. One major story to come out of it is the Trump layoffs at the Department of Education, which deeply affected the Office of Special Education Programs (OSEP) — the federal office that protects the rights of students with disabilities.

    What Happened at the Department of Education

    Under President Donald Trump’s administration, and with involvement from officials like Linda McMahon, the government carried out major federal job cuts during the shutdown. Reports from NPR and Inside Higher Ed said that the Department of Education layoffs were part of a larger “reduction in force” that impacted hundreds of workers.

    The Office of Special Education Programs was one of the hardest hit. According to ABC News, the office was “decimated,” meaning most of its employees were laid off. Once a strong team of experts helping schools nationwide, OSEP is now working with only a fraction of its original staff.

    These deep special education cuts have raised serious concerns about how well students with disabilities will be supported moving forward.

    Why This Office Is So Important

    You may wonder how an office in Washington, D.C. connects to students in your local school district. The Office of Special Education Programs (OSEP) has a huge role in keeping special education fair and effective across the country.

    Here’s what the office does:

    • Sends federal special education funding to states.
    • Makes sure states follow the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA) — a law that protects every student’s right to a free and appropriate education.
    • Provides help, training, and answers to schools and educators.

    Think of OSEP as both a watchdog and a helper — the people who make sure schools follow the law and students with disabilities get the support they deserve. these layoffs under Trump’s administration will affect real students in classrooms nationwide.

    How the Layoffs Affect Students and Families

    The special education layoffs don’t stop services overnight, but they make it harder for the government to enforce the laws that protect students. Here’s how:

    1. Less Oversight
    With fewer workers, the Department of Education can’t monitor states as closely. If a school fails to meet a child’s IEP or special education needs, it may take longer for anyone to notice or fix it.

    2. Slower Help and Delays
    Schools rely on federal experts for guidance in tricky special education situations. With most of the team gone, it will take longer to get help or answers, delaying support for students.

    3. Uncertain Future
    OSEP also plans ahead for long-term needs — something that’s now much harder to do with so many staff gone. Teachers and parents are left wondering what this means for the future of special education in America.

    What This Means Going Forward

    Even though your child’s Individualized Education Program (IEP) is still legally protected under IDEA, the system that makes sure schools follow those rules is now much weaker. The Trump administration layoffs have left a big hole in the support system meant to protect children with disabilities.

    Parents, teachers, and disability advocates across the country are watching closely to see how these changes in Washington will affect classrooms, especially those serving special needs students.

    For now, the message is clear: the government shutdown impact on schools is being felt most by the families who rely on special education — the ones who can least afford to lose support.

  • Join the Path to Pro: Your Trade Career Awaits🛠️

    Are you considering a rewarding career in the skilled trades? The demand for qualified professionals like plumbers, electricians, carpenters, and HVAC technicians is skyrocketing! The Path to Pro Network, powered by The Home Depot, is your essential starting point for launching or advancing your career in construction and the trades.

    IG @workout_landlord

    Key Reasons to Join the Path to Pro Network:

    • Find High-Demand Jobs: The construction industry is booming, with the web page noting 3.9 million jobs available in the next 10 years and opportunities in 50 states (including USVI & PR).
    • High Earning Potential: Careers in the trades can be financially lucrative. For example, the web page highlights that Plumbers & Electricians can earn $100,000+ per year.
    • Entrepreneurial Opportunities: The trades offer a path to business ownership, with 23% of construction workers owning their own business.
    • Free Training Resources: The Path to Pro program offers access to free training to help you build the skills necessary to succeed.
    • Urgent Industry Need: With 40% of current construction workers set to retire by 2031, there’s a strong and immediate need for new talent.

    Explore In-Demand Trade Careers

    The trades offer a diverse range of specializations. Through the Path to Pro site, you can discover various in-demand careers and learn about their salary ranges, requirements, and responsibilities. Some of the careers you can explore include:

    • Construction & Remodeling
    • Carpentry
    • Electrical
    • Plumbing
    • HVAC

    Ready to Build Your Future?

    Whether you’re new to the industry, looking for your next job, or even a military community member transitioning to a civilian career, the Path to Pro Network is a valuable resource. Build your free profile today and take the first step toward a stable, profitable, and rewarding career in the skilled trades!

    Contractors can also Hire for Your Team by leveraging the network to find qualified candidates.

  • Tragic Explosion in Tennessee: 16 Dead at Explosives Plant

    Friday, October 10th brought a heartbreaking event in Tennessee. An explosion ripped through an explosives manufacturing facility. Local authorities have confirmed 16 people died in the blast.

    The explosion struck the Accurate Energetic Systems (AES) plant in McEwen, Tennessee. The sheriff and state officials say there are no survivors among those who were inside at the time. Rescue and recovery teams have been moving slowly and carefully. The nature of explosives means the wreckage is dangerous, and authorities are working “foot-by-foot” to search for remains and make the site safe.

    Investigation Underway

    The cause of the explosion is not yet known. Federal, state, and local agencies are all involved in investigating. The Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF) is leading the origin investigation. Officials say they will look at every possibility — whether it was an accident or something more intentional — and hold responsible parties accountable if wrongdoing is found.

    Effects on the Community

    In a Monday news conference, authorities revealed the names of all 16 victims of Friday’s tragedy. The victims are Jason Adams, Erick Anderson, Billy Baker, Adam Boatman, Christopher Clark, Mindy Clifton, James Cook, Reyna Gillahan, LeTeisha Mays, Jeremy Moore, Melinda Rainey, Melissa Stanford, Trenton Stewart, Rachel Woodall, Steven Wright, and Donald Yowell.

    Effects on the Community

    This small community has been deeply shaken. Many first responders and local leaders say they knew employees or their families personally. Local schools, such as McEwen High School, held moments of silence at games to honor the victims. Counseling and support services are being mobilized for residents, especially students and staff.

    Fundraising efforts are also starting. Local businesses and individuals are asking people to donate or show support for affected families.

  • Tragic SC Bar Shooting: 4 Killed, 20 Injured on St. Helena Island

    A tragic shooting event took place early Sunday morning in South Carolina, leaving several people dead and many more injured. This devastating incident happened at a local bar that was packed with people.

    Four Lives Lost in Beaufort County

    The shooting occurred at Willie’s Bar and Grill on St. Helena Island. This area, located in Beaufort County, is known for its strong community ties. Reports confirm that four people were killed during the violence. The victims’ identities were not released. Additionally, at least 20 other people were injured and needed medical help at area hospitals.

    The bar was hosting a busy high school alumni gathering when the gunfire began. Eyewitnesses described a scene of panic and fear as people rushed to find safety. This sudden act of violence has shocked the entire community.

    The Police Investigation is Ongoing

    The Beaufort County Sheriff’s Office quickly arrived at the scene after receiving multiple emergency calls. The sheriff’s office has confirmed the high number of casualties and is now fully focused on investigating the incident.

    Police officials have stated that this is a very difficult situation for everyone involved. They are working hard to figure out what caused the shooting and who was responsible. They have asked the public for patience as the investigation continues.

    Our thoughts are with the victims and their families following this heartbreaking South Carolina bar shooting. We hope that the Sheriff’s Office is able to provide answers and bring justice to all those affected by this senseless act of crime. We will continue to watch for updates on this important news story.

  • Homecoming Weekend of Horror in Mississippi

    This article discusses recent events involving gun violence, including details that some readers may find disturbing or upsetting. It includes descriptions of mass shootings and the tragic loss of life, including children. Reader discretion is advised.

    Last night, a time that should have been all about high school spirit, touchdowns, and homecoming celebrations, was instead marked by fear, chaos, and unbelievable loss. In at least two different states, events tied to high school football games were shattered by mass shootings.

    It’s a heartbreaking reality: our children, teenagers, and young people can no longer go out to have simple fun without the risk of violence. They went out to cheer, dance, and celebrate—and for too many, that simple night out became a fight for life, or the very end of it. Many young people went out expecting a great night, and sadly, some did not make it home.

    1. Leland, Mississippi: Homecoming Ends in Tragedy

    The most tragic event occurred in Leland, Mississippi, right after the high school’s homecoming game.

    • What Happened: Late Friday night, huge crowds were gathered on a main street to keep the homecoming party going. Gunfire erupted in the crowd.
    • The Loss: This shooting was a disaster. Four people were killed, and another 16 people were injured. Many victims, including teenagers, were rushed to the hospital in critical condition.
    • The Pain: The entire community of Leland is now mourning. A cherished yearly tradition was completely ruined by an act of terrible violence that stole lives and left families with unimaginable pain.

    2. Heidelberg, Mississippi: Gunfire on School Grounds

    In another Mississippi town, Heidelberg, another homecoming celebration was hit by tragedy.

    Reports are saying this is Tylar Goodloe, who is now in custody.
    • What Happened: On Friday night, during the high school’s homecoming weekend, a shooting took place right on the school campus.
    • The Loss: Two people were shot and killed on the school grounds.
    • The Pain: For a second small Mississippi town in one night, the school—a place that should feel safe and supportive—became the scene of a fatal crime.
    • Update: The Heidelberg Police Department and the Jasper County Sheriff’s Office were actively searching for 18-year-old Tylar Jarod Goodloe in connection with the shooting. He has since been taken into custody.

    3. Rolling Fork, Mississippi: Another Celebration Shattered

    • What Happened: A shooting took place outside the homecoming game for South Delta High School.
    • The Loss: Reports are stating that 5-year-old Legaci Deshawn was fatally shot while reportedly being held in her father’s arms.
    • More details and updates are TBA.

    4. Portsmouth, Virginia: Gunshots Near the Game

    Hundreds of miles away, in Portsmouth, Virginia, another high school football game was interrupted by violence, showing how widespread this problem is.

    • The Incident: During the final minutes of the game between I.C. Norcom High School and Churchland High School, reports of gunshots fired in the streets near the school campus quickly spread.
    • The Result: While the good news is that no injuries were reported at the scene, the fear was immediate. Police and school officials had to quickly clear the stadium to keep everyone safe.
    • The Impact: Even without physical injuries, the feeling of safety was completely broken. A routine high school event was suddenly turned upside down by the sound of gun violence nearby.

    College Homecoming Celebrations Turn Violent

    The wave of violence also struck university campuses celebrating their homecoming weekends, forcing students and alumni into danger.

    5. Jackson State and Alcorn State Universities

    • Jackson State: During the university’s homecoming weekend, a shooting was reported at the tailgate section near Mississippi Veterans Memorial Stadium. One child was injured by the gunfire.
    • Alcorn State: A separate shooting was reported on the campus of Alcorn State University. This incident tragically resulted in one death and two injuries, one being a child, forcing the campus into a shelter-in-place lockdown as police investigated.

    When Will the Fun Be Safe Again?

    When children celebrating a football game or being held by their fathers are killed, it is a sign that something is terribly wrong in our society. These shootings are not isolated problems; they are part of a larger, ongoing crisis of gun violence that is taking away our right to safety.

    The question is not who is holding the gun, but how they are getting them and how we can stop this from happening again. We cannot keep losing our community events, our sense of safety, and our loved ones to bullets.

    To stop these tragedies, people across all communities must demand real solutions. This includes looking closely at gun reform—making it harder for dangerous people to get guns and making sure all weapons are handled responsibly. Our children deserve a world where they can celebrate, play, and go to school without the fear that they may never make it home. We must find the will to make that happen.

    It is a difficult thing to accept when a simple homecoming football game can turn into a battleground.

  • When Silence is the Loudest Sound: What the New “War Department” Means for All of Us

    If you’ve been scrolling through the news, you might have heard about the military shaking things up. They are talking about changing the name of the Department of Defense back to the Department of War.

    Let’s break down the three biggest things I took away from the recent speeches to the country’s top generals.

    Simple Mission: Warfighting, Period.

    The new leaders are making the mission clear: the only job is warfighting and getting ready to win. They believe the era of just “defense” is over.

    The whole idea is what they call “peace through strength”. Think about it like this: if you walk around looking strong and ready, nobody will start a fight with you. They want the military to be so powerful that enemies won’t even try to challenge us.

    This focus is blunt and direct, but it’s easy to understand. It means the military will stop spending time on things that don’t directly help them win a fight, and instead focus on getting more troops, more equipment, and more speed.

    High Standards for Every Warrior

    This part of the message is the most important to the regular people in the service. The leadership is pushing for a total return to merit and high standards.

    They are ending what they call “politically correct” policies that they believe lowered the bar. They want standards to be gender-neutral and high—meaning if a job is in combat, everyone, man or woman, has to meet the exact same difficult test.

    • Fitness is Key: Expect to see much tougher physical fitness tests that resemble combat readiness, and everyone will take them often.
    • Merit Over Everything: Promotions and jobs should be given based only on ability, character, and strength, not on anything else.

    Why? Because a low standard isn’t a standard, it’s a dangerous suggestion. If a leader wouldn’t want their own child in a unit because the standards are too low, then they must change things.

    The Loudest Silence in the Room

    One detail stood out to people watching: the silence in the room after the speeches.

    In a political event, you expect a crowd to cheer and clap wildly at every point. But when the Secretary and the President spoke, the audience—made up of the nation’s highest-ranking generals and admirals—was incredibly quiet.

    This wasn’t a silence of disapproval, but a silence of deep processing. These officers were told about a massive change in mission, culture, and expectations. They were told to get rid of a “toxic” culture and start speaking up against problems. When the stakes are this high, a silent, serious focus is the professional response.

    They were told, in no uncertain terms: if you disagree with the mission, you should get out. This quiet moment showed that every person in the room understood the weight of the moment and the seriousness of the job they now have to do. The time for polite silence or “go along, get along” leadership is over.

    Watch full remarks below.

    President Trump and Defense Secretary Hegseth addressed a gathering of military brass generals in Quantico, Virginia earlier this week.

  • The Working Poor of 2025

    Across America in 2025, many working people are facing a crisis. Even with full-time jobs, rising costs of living, high rent, and expensive groceries are pushing families to the edge. Layoffs are happening in multiple industries, leaving people without steady paychecks. For some, this means falling behind on bills, skipping meals, and even facing homelessness.

    The Struggle of the Working Class

    Many hardworking men and women wake up every day, go to work, and still cannot make ends meet. Rent continues to climb, utility bills are higher, and groceries cost more than ever. A simple trip to the store can drain a paycheck. Even saving money has become almost impossible when most of your income goes toward survival.

    Parents are stressed about how to keep food on the table for their children, while single adults often juggle between paying rent or buying groceries. For too many people, “living paycheck to paycheck” has turned into “living bill to bill.”

    The Comparison: Food Stamps and Section 8

    At the same time, frustration grows among working people who see others receiving government assistance. Families on food stamps and Section 8 often get hundreds of dollars in groceries and pay reduced rent, sometimes as low as $400 for housing.

    For workers struggling without help, it feels unfair. They may work 40–60 hours a week but still cannot afford the basics, while others who qualify for benefits seem to live with less financial stress. This creates tension and raises questions about how the system is built.

    Why Saving Money Feels Impossible

    Financial experts always recommend saving money, but the reality for many working Americans is different. When rent, electricity, gas, childcare, insurance, and food take up most of a paycheck, there is little to nothing left to save. Let’s really break it down. A $60,000 yearly salary in 2025 is not the same as $60,000 in 2005. $60,000/year salary in 2025 with $1750/month rent, car payment, utilities, etc…and if you have kids…there may be times you’re managing a household with $100 to stretch until the next payday after you pay your bills.

    Emergencies such as car repairs, medical bills, or job loss can quickly push a working person into debt—or worse, homelessness. For those already on the edge, one layoff or one missed paycheck can mean sleeping in their car or asking relatives for help.

    What Can People Do to Prepare?

    While the system feels unbalanced, there are still steps working people can take to prepare for hard times (and yes I’ve tried a few of things…some are a personal choice, believe me):

    1. Cut Non-Essential Spending – Review subscriptions, eating out, or unnecessary purchases. Even small cuts can add up. I let go of about 5 subscriptions and have saved $100/month since then. Yes, Netflix was one of them. 😒I still have Peacock to watch Real Housewives.
    2. Side Hustles and Extra Income – Freelancing, gig work, or part-time jobs can bring in extra cash. While exhausting, it can provide a safety net. When I was laid off about a year ago, I took on side gigs in tutoring, college advising through a company outside of the US, and even played games on Freecash.com. (No, seriously I earned $200 for playing games through that app. Definitely helped with groceries.)
    3. Build Emergency Savings (Even Small) – Even if you can only save $20 a paycheck, it can grow over time and help with unexpected bills.
    4. Seek Local Support – Food banks, nonprofit rent assistance, and churches sometimes provide help to working families who don’t qualify for government programs.
    5. Stay Informed About Benefits – Some people assume they won’t qualify for help, but rules change. Even workers can sometimes get partial assistance.
    6. Community Support – Sharing housing, carpooling, or creating food co-ops with neighbors can help stretch resources.

    A Growing National Problem

    The reality is that homelessness is no longer just an issue for the unemployed. More and more working Americans are finding themselves homeless or near homelessness. As bills rise and paychecks don’t keep up, the struggle will only continue.

    The question remains: How can a society reward hard work if working people cannot afford the basics? Until changes are made in wages, housing costs, and access to fair assistance, many will continue to feel left behind.

  • Final Fugitive Caught: Derrick Groves Captured in Atlanta

    The long search for convicted murderer Derrick Groves ended dramatically in Southwest Atlanta, Georgia, on Wednesday, October 8th. Groves, the very last inmate on the run from a major jailbreak in New Orleans, was caught after a stand-off with police. His arrest closes a long race for law enforcement.

    New mugshot of Derrick Groves

    Dramatic End to the Manhunt in Atlanta

    Authorities, including the U.S. Marshals and the Atlanta Police SWAT team, surrounded a home in southwest Atlanta after getting a tip. Groves had been hiding there for some time. After hours of trying to get him to come out, officers fired gas into the house. Groves was later found by a police dog hiding in a small crawl space in the basement. He was arrested without anyone getting hurt.

    When police led the prisoner away, Groves, who was barefoot and shirtless, smiled and blew a kiss at the camera, a shocking reaction that quickly spread online. He is now being held in the Fulton County Jail and will be sent back to New Orleans soon.

    Who is Derrick Groves and What Were His Charges?

    Derrick Groves, 28, was one of the most dangerous of the men who broke out. He has a long history of violent crime.

    • Main Crime: Groves was convicted of second-degree murder in October 2024. He was found guilty of using an assault rifle to shoot at a family party on Mardi Gras in 2018, killing two people (Jamar Robinson and Byron Jackson) and injuring several others. He was facing a possible life sentence without parole.
    • Past Charges: Court records show Groves, who goes by the street name “Woo,” sold heroin as a teenager and faced federal drug charges. He was involved in at least four killings over an 18-month period. He also later pleaded guilty to manslaughter charges in connection with a separate double killing in 2017.
    • Family Connection: Groves is the grandson of a New Orleans woman, Kim Groves, who was famously murdered in 1994 by a corrupt police officer after she filed a brutality complaint against him.

    The New Orleans Jailbreak and the Capture of All Ten Fugitives

    Groves was part of an unusual mass escape from the Orleans Parish Justice Center in New Orleans on May 16. Ten inmates escaped by breaking through a faulty cell door, taking a toilet off the wall, and crawling through a hole behind it. They then climbed a barbed-wire fence and escaped onto the highway. The escape went unnoticed for hours.

    The New Orleans Jail Escapees

    This major jailbreak led to a huge, multi-state search for all ten men.

    • Quick Captures: Many of the escapees were caught quickly, most of them within New Orleans or Louisiana. Three of the men were caught the same day as the escape.
    • Other Escapees: The other nine inmates who escaped were: Antoine Massey, Jermaine Donald, Leo Tate, Lenton Vanburen, Kendall Myles, Gary Price, Corey Boyd, Robert Moody, and Dkenan Dennis.
    • Manhunt: While nine were brought back into custody within about six weeks (one was caught as far away as Texas after a car chase), Derrick Groves stayed on the run for nearly five months, making him the target of a high-reward, nationwide search until his arrest in Atlanta.
    • Inside Help: Investigators believe the escape was an inside job. A jail maintenance worker was arrested for turning off the water to the toilet, and a former jail employee (who was Groves’ girlfriend) was also arrested and charged with helping to plan the escape.

    All ten inmates will now face extra charges for simple escape, which can add between two and five years to their original prison time. Groves’ capture means that every single person involved in the jailbreak is now back in custody.