Latest news with #Celestine
Malaysian Reserve
01-06-2025
- Business
- Malaysian Reserve
Celestine Achi Launches Free AI Readiness Assessment Tool and Maturity Framework to Accelerate Africa's AI Adoption in PR, Media, and Communications
LAGOS, Nigeria, June 1, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — As the AI revolution sweeps across industries worldwide, one African innovator is ensuring the continent doesn't just keep up — but leads. Dr. Celestine Achi, renowned AI educator, PR technology pioneer, and author of AI-Powered PR: The Essential Guide for Communications Leaders to Master Artificial Intelligence, has unveiled a groundbreaking AI Maturity Assessment Framework and AI Readiness Assessment Tool tailored for African organizations and professionals. This dual innovation is designed to democratize access to strategic AI evaluation for businesses, agencies, nonprofits, and public sector entities — with a special focus on public relations, media, and communications professionals. 'AI shouldn't be a privilege for the West. It must be a catalyst for transformation in Africa — starting with those who shape public narratives,' said Celestine Achi, Founder of Cihan Digital Academy and architect of the TABS-D AI Implementation Framework. Empowering Africa's Future-Ready Workforce The AI Readiness Assessment Tool, now freely available at enables individuals and teams to instantly evaluate their current AI capabilities across key pillars such as strategy, skills, systems, and culture. Upon completion, users receive a customized AI readiness report with practical steps for growth — no technical background required. The companion AI Maturity Assessment Framework provides a structured pathway for organizations to transition from AI experimentation to enterprise-level integration. Rooted in real-world case studies and tested across PR agencies, newsrooms, and regulatory bodies, the framework allows African leaders to map their journey across five maturity stages: Nascent, Aware, Engaged, Strategic, and Transformational. Built for Communicators. Designed for Africa. What sets this initiative apart is its deep contextual relevance. Drawing from Celestine's extensive work with media agencies, government communicators, and enterprise brands across Nigeria and beyond, the tools are optimized for African realities — where connectivity, capacity gaps, and talent development remain major hurdles. 'PR and media professionals are the architects of trust. They deserve the right tools to thrive in this intelligent era,' Achi emphasized. 'With this framework, they can now measure, learn, and lead AI transformation — regardless of their current digital maturity.' A Movement, Not Just a Tool Already embraced by industry leaders and professional bodies, the AI Maturity Framework and Readiness Tool are part of the broader AI-Powered PR Ecosystem, a multi-dimensional platform offering: The AI-Powered PR playbook An immersive PR simulation game built on the TABS-D framework Community engagement tools and certification programs To access the free assessment and start your AI journey, visit: About Celestine Achi Celestine Achi (FIIM, MNIPR, ANIMC, Dr. FAIMFIN) is Africa's foremost authority on AI in PR and digital media transformation. He is the author of AI-Powered PR, developer of the TABS-D Framework, and founder of Cihan Digital Academy – a pioneer in AI education for communicators. Photo – View original content:
Business Insider
20-05-2025
- Business
- Business Insider
Memorial Day furniture deals: The best sales include Wayfair, Joybird, and more
Shopping for furniture can be a hassle, but getting a good deal always makes it worth it. Luckily, the best 2025 Memorial Day furniture sales happening now can help you revamp your indoor or outdoor space more Day brings the best furniture deals we see all year, rivaled only by Black Friday, so now's the time to shop if you've been on the fence. Whether you need a new desk, couch, bed frame, or rug, these sales from our favorite brands have you of course, with so many deals to browse through, it can get overwhelming. Luckily, we're here to help. Ahead, find the best Memorial Day furniture deals on pieces we recommend. In some cases, you can save over $1,000, so you won't want to miss out. Some of these deals are likely to sell out, though, so don't wait too long to a deals reporter and editor of many years, this Memorial Day isn't my first rodeo. I've covered my fair share of couches, rugs, desks, and decor, so I'm pretty picky when it comes to my furniture deals. Check out some of my favorites from this year's early Memorial Day furniture discounts below. So far, the sales are solid, meeting some of the best prices we've seen in 2025, though not necessarily all-time lows. This modular outdoor sofa set can be arranged in numerous ways to fit in your backyard space. It's incredibly comfortable and has a strong, durable frame. One of our editor's recently tested this human-sized dog bed, calling it a "dream come true" and "like laying in a supportive cloud." The Magnus Pro has incredibly thoughtful cable management and supportive add-ons that make it a great choice for gamers, streamers, and anyone who uses multiple monitors and accessories. Ruggable's Celestine rug is vintage-inspired but made with a machine-washable material, so it's easy to clean. Its thin, so it's easy to ripple with foot traffic or vacuuming, but it's a good option for pet owners. The Tyler Chair is a classic design that can be customized to fit your space and style, with more than 100 different upholstery options to choose from. Amazon might not be the first place you think of when shopping for furniture. But the online retailer is a treasure trove of affordable, high-quality pieces, including some of our favorite standing desks and area rugs we've tested. Amazon also stocks two of its own furniture brands, Rivet and Stone & Beam, which boast similar quality to luxury brands like West Elm and CB2 despite much more affordable prices, per our review. Right now, you can shop Amazon furniture deals up to 40% off. Modular sofas are beloved for their versatility and ability to shift, shrink, and grow according to your space or desired shape. This roomy U-shape sectional includes four seats and two ottomans. Bonus, there is hidden storage space under each seat and all the covers are machine-washable. You can't beat the simplicity and ease of ordering a dining set. This Signature Design by Ashley has a rustic, farmhouse feel to it and is amply sized with seating for six. This Allewie storage bed has four sliding drawers for ample storage, easy assembly, and a stylish, timeless design. It has over 8,000 5-star ratings, so we have a good feeling about this bed. It's available in full, queen, and king. Joybird puts a modern spin on classic pieces. The brand's sofas and chairs offer some of the widest color and fabric selections we've seen, making them unique and easily customizable to your own aesthetic. Save 35% off sitewide and up to 40% on best-selling pieces now. Available in dozens of colors and fabrics, the Eliot Sleeper Sectional is a modern classic. In addition to a pull-out bed, it also has plenty of storage for bedding or anything else you might need to stow away. The Joybird Hughes Leather Sofa features a mid-century-inspired design and is covered with rich and supple leather. Only lightly curved, Joybird's Amelia sofa is 80 inches long and comes in dozens of colors and several fabric types (some of which cost extra). The frame is a mix of engineered wood and kiln-dried solid wood. Wayfair offers a wide selection of decor, furniture, and accessories that are both high-quality and affordable. Its pieces are easy to assemble on your own, making it a great choice for college students are anyone who moves around a lot. The retailer is offering markdowns up to 70% off on some of our favorite area rugs, home office furniture, sofas, and more. This upholstered wingback platform bed frame oozes sophistication but at a very accessible price point. It's available in five colors and full, queen, and king bed sizes. With several colors similarly discounted from Wayfair, this is a rare chance to pick up a stylish armchair for your living room to match your current decor. The Hoboken Tufted Arm Chair is made with solid wood and a shallow seat, so it's sturdy and not too soft. The texture on this handmade rug can help elevate your space. It's also stain-resistant and fair trade. Article has mastered the midcentury modern aesthetic. Plus, most of its stylish furniture pieces require no assembly or can be assembled in under 15 minutes, making it all the more convenient. The brand is currently offering deals up to 40% off. Among the markdowns are editor-favorite bed frames, desks, and our full Article media console review for more products we love. The curved fabric headboard of Article's Uden gives a cozy, enveloping feeling to the bed. It's available in an earthy green color and off-white. A durable plastic chair is an essential for anyone in a busy household, and these dining chairs by Article are the perfect addition to your space. These chairs are rarely on sale, so you'll want to pick them up fast. Choose from dusty pink, daisy yellow, or one of nine other available colors. The ultimate statement piece, Article's Sven series comes in fabric, leather, or colorful velvet. The anti-crush velvet is easy to clean and will look beautiful for years to come. Many retailers like Anthropologie, Ballard Designs, and more are offering Memorial Day deals both online and in-store. But keep in mind that the in-store selection may be limited or sell out faster, so you may have better luck online. Some brands are also offering online exclusive deals that may be more enticing than what you'll find in our WhatsApp channel on mobile to stay up to date on deals and buying guides from the Reviews team.
Yahoo
21-04-2025
- Sport
- Yahoo
Jalen Celestine comes to Cincinnati Bearcats basketball from Baylor
After a visit that began Saturday, April 12 during the University of Cincinnati Spring Showcase football scrimmage and Big 12 baseball game, the UC Bearcats basketball team has added another player from the transfer portal. Jalen Celestine, a 6-foot-7, 215-pound guard from Baylor has joined the 2025-26 Wes Miller Bearcats after briefly taking a visit to Santa Clara. Celestine madeit official April 21 on social media. In essence, the Bearcats swapped wings with Baylor as Dan Skillings Jr. signed with Scott Drew's Bears after committing April 15. Baylor's entire 2024-25 roster either left for the NBA draft, eligibility reasons or the transfer portal. Baylor Bears guard Jalen Celestine (32) attempts a three-point shot against Cincinnati Bearcats forward Dillon Mitchell (23) in the first half at Fifth Third Arena Feb. 25. Celestine played in 31 games for Baylor last season and started 11, averaging 7.1 points and 3.5 rebounds. He shot 38% from the floor and 35% from the perimeter. In his one game against UC Feb. 25, he had eight points and seven rebounds, while making 2-of-4 treys. His high game of the season was early in the year when he had 20 points against Tarleton State. He had six points and eight boards in Baylor's NCAA tournament win over Mississippi State. Advertisement Celestine played for the California Golden Bears before Baylor averaging 8.7 points and 3.2 rebounds with 23 starts in 27 games in 2023-24. He shot 45% from the field there and 44% from deep. March 21: Baylor guard Jalen Celestine goes up for a shot against Mississippi State guard Riley Kugel (2) and forward RJ Melendez (22) during the first half of the first round of the men's NCAA Tournament at Lenovo Center in Raleigh, N.C. He missed 2022-23 with a knee injury, but averaged 7.5 points and 3.1 rebounds his sophomore year at Cal with 16 starts in 31 games. In 22 games and five starts as a freshman, he averaged 2.8 points and 1.7 rebounds. Celestine is a career 38% shooter from the 3-point line. He is a native Canadian from Ajax, Ontario but played high school ball at Long Island Lutheran in New York. This article originally appeared on Cincinnati Enquirer: Cincinnati Bearcats hoops adds Baylor wing Jalen Celestine in portal
Yahoo
28-03-2025
- Politics
- Yahoo
Thousands of Student Civil Rights Cases Left Adrift After Trump Guts Ed Dept
After a campus police officer grabbed student Ja'Liyah Celestine by the hair and kneed her in the face, she filed a federal civil rights complaint that alleged persistent racial discrimination against Black teens at her Texas high school. But the complaint, brought by the 18-year-old in late October with the Education Department's Office for Civil Rights, may never get investigated. Get stories like this delivered straight to your inbox. Sign up for The 74 Newsletter Get stories like this delivered straight to your inbox. Sign up for The 74 Newsletter That's because it's one of thousands of federal civil rights complaints and investigations against school districts nationally — particularly those alleging sexual misconduct or racism — that advocates say have been left to languish by the Trump administration with little hope for resolution. As the president and Secretary Linda McMahon seek to dismantle the Education Department — with its civil rights office among the hardest hit by layoffs — attorneys say students like Celestine have lost one of their few avenues for relief. 'When we filed the complaint on Oct. 29, we knew the election was a few days out and we knew this could very well be the outcome,' said Andrew Hairston, the director of the Education Justice Project at the nonprofit Texas Appleseed, who is representing Celestine in her complaint against the Beaumont Independent School District and its police department. 'It's very difficult for Black children, in particular, who face the harms of school police, to seek any vindication of their rights.' Related Since President Donald Trump took office in January, civil rights attorneys at the Education Department have faced a whirlwind of directives and layoffs, throwing into uncertainty more than 12,000 civil rights investigations that stemmed from complaints by students, parents and their advocates. The Education Department and the Beaumont school district didn't respond to requests for comment. After investigations nationwide were paused following Trump's Jan. 20 inauguration, the Education Department's staff was cut roughly in half through layoffs of more than 1,300 employees, buyouts and early retirements. When the department announced mass firings earlier this month, at least 243 civil rights office staffers were cut. Meanwhile, seven of the 12 Office for Civil Rights regional offices were shuttered, including those in Philadelphia and Dallas, Texas, where Celestine's complaint was filed. It's a situation that civil rights advocates say has left the Education Department unequipped to carry out its functions mandated by Congress. In a lawsuit filed March 14, advocates and families accused the Trump administration of eviscerating students' access to federal civil rights remedies, with particular harm to students of color, female students and LGBTQ+ youth. Meanwhile, the Trump administration has prioritized cases tied to antisemitism complaints and has cracked down on schools that afford rights and protections to transgender students. The lawsuit alleges the changes undermine the civil rights office's ability to process and investigate complaints and asked a judge to order that its staffing be restored to levels that allow complaints from the public to be investigated 'promptly and equitably.' Staffing changes were 'arbitrary and capricious' the lawsuit charges, because Trump administration officials 'did not articulate a reasoned basis for their decision to sabotage' the Office for Civil Rights. 'The fact that the federal government is kind of both eliminating these offices and then weaponizing what's left of them to advance a very narrow definition of discrimination is not just troubling and sad, it's also fundamentally antithetical to what democratic governance and law enforcement should look like,' said Johnathan Smith, the chief of staff and general counsel at the nonprofit National Center for Youth Law. Related Smith represents the plaintiffs in the lawsuit against the Education Department and McMahon. They include Nikki Carter, a Black mother of three, who alleges she was barred from her children's Alabama schools in retaliation for her work as an advocate for children with disabilities. A second parent, identified only as A.W., charges they had to remove their child from school for safety reasons after the student was sexually assaulted and harassed by a classmate and the school did not adequately respond. Both parents are members of the Council of Parent Attorneys and Advocates, a nonprofit focused on the civil rights of children with disabilities. Carter's complaint was filed in September 2022 and A.W.'s in October 2023. It was spring 2024 when Celestine got into a fight and campus police in Beaumont were called to the scene. Though the civil rights complaint submitted to the Education Department by the nonprofit Texas Appleseed doesn't seek to absolve Celestine for her role in the fight, it takes aim at what happened next: A police use-of-force incident captured on video. 'Responding after the fight occurred' when the teenager was sitting passively on the floor, the complaint states, the officer with the school district police department pepper-sprayed Celestine, grabbed her by the hair and kneed her in the face. 'Such excessive force caused great harm' and was just the first form of punishment Celestine received for the fight, the complaint alleges. She was also suspended from school, placed in an alternative education program and required to complete community service — 'consequences that exceeded the nature of the incident in question,' it argues. 'This complaint does not ignore the significance of an offense such as in-school fighting,' Texas Appleseed's Hairston wrote to federal investigators. But the altercation that Celestine was involved in 'did not warrant the abuse she was subjected to.' The issue at Beaumont is bigger than Celestine and a campus fight, Texas Appleseed contends. It 'represents a salient example of how the school-to-prison pipeline operates,' according to the complaint, and highlights how Black students at the district and nationally are disproportionately subjected to law enforcement referrals in schools. The 12,000 civil rights investigations that were pending as of Jan. 14 ahead of Trump's inauguration were listed in an online database that hasn't been updated since. Federal civil rights investigations routinely take years to resolve and the oldest pending complaint at the time, alleging sex-based discrimination in athletics against an Oklahoma school district was opened in 2007. After Trump's swearing-in, the Education Department paused all investigations in its civil rights office. In February, the agency ended the pause on investigations focused solely on disability-based discrimination, and then lifted the hold on sex- and race-based complaints on March 6 — just a week before the 243 OCR staffers were fired. At least 178 attorneys in the civil rights division and dozens of equal opportunity specialists were eliminated. The Dallas regional office was among those shut down altogether, possibly relegating Celestine's case and thousands more to oblivion. Smith with the National Center for Youth Law said he's heard from fired Education Department employees who've lost access to their email accounts and all ability to communicate with families and attorneys about pending complaints. 'Unless someone is actually going to go into their email accounts and pull up those emails, those communications are lost,' Smith said. As a result, parents and school officials who are communicating with Education Department officials about pending cases are 'literally communicating into a black hole because there's no way for that information to go anywhere.' Even if pending cases are transferred to other regional offices, Smith said, they should be considered dead on arrival. 'I just don't see how anyone can believe that there's going to be any real process or consideration of those complaints at this point,' Smith said. While certain cases appear to be jettisoned, fired Education Department staffers who spoke to The 74 and others allege the department's civil rights division has been weaponized to pursue politically motivated investigations. Among them is an investigation into the Denver school district for opening a gender-neutral bathroom at one of its high schools. Last week, the Office for Civil Rights found the state of Maine violated Title IX, the federal law prohibiting sex-based discrimination, for allowing transgender student athletes to participate on girls' sports teams. As the Trump administration targets diversity, equity and inclusion initiatives at schools and colleges, the Education Department opened an investigation against the Ithaca, New York, school district, charging a Students of Color United Summit designed to 'provide a safe space' and 'uplift students of color' was discriminatory against white students. Harold Jordan, the nationwide education equity coordinator at the American Civil Liberties Union of Pennsylvania, accused the Trump administration of launching 'directed investigations' to advance political agendas 'based on something they read in the newspaper' rather than from complaints filed by students attending those schools. 'This department is clearly fixated on race and reinterpreting what is racial discrimination,' Jordan said. Ideological beliefs around racial discrimination and transgender students' rights, he said 'seem to have spilled over into how they see civil rights enforcement.' Jordan said the ACLU represents students in about 20 pending federal civil rights complaints nationally, yet 'nobody is hearing anything' from the civil rights office about the status of those investigations. Among the complaints is an allegation by seven students that Pennsylvania's Central Bucks School District engaged in a widespread culture of discrimination against LGBTQ+ students, particularly those who are transgender and nonbinary. 'Given their diatribes about gender ideology and stuff, I suspect that they're not going to be terribly sympathetic,' Jordan said. 'But we ultimately don't know, and ultimately they're supposed to follow the law and enforce the law.' Meanwhile, at least one civil rights complainant bowed out before the Trump administration could even weigh in, said Katie McKay, an attorney at the Brooklyn law firm C.A. Goldberg where she works on cases involving sexual discrimination, harassment and assault at K-12 schools and colleges. McKay said a college student whose sexual assault case 'had been open since Obama was in office,' decided to voluntarily close the complaint after Trump was elected for a second term 'because of concerns that this administration would mishandle the case.' 'It's frustrating and sad to see that this person has been sitting with this unresolved issue for like a decade and then it's kind of this non-resolution,' McKay said. The decision to terminate the complaint was made in part on the long history of sexual assault allegations against the president himself. In 2023, a jury found Trump liable for sexual abuse against the writer E. Jean Carroll in 1996. 'There's this fear that those values were going to be applied to the case,' McKay said. 'Closing out the case at least created a sense of closure on their own terms rather than letting this administration speak for them.'
Yahoo
30-01-2025
- Yahoo
Wheeling man charged in Sunday shooting at Elgin McDonald's
A Wheeling man has been arrested in connection with the shooting that occurred Sunday at a McDonald's on Summit Street in Elgin. David Celestine, 20, was charged by the Kane County Sheriff's Office Tuesday with aggravated discharge of a firearm, a class X felony, and possession of a firearm while FOID card invalid or not eligible, a class 3 felony, according to a post on the Elgin Police Department Facebook page. The charges were filed two days after the shooting, which occurred about 1:15 p.m. at the 401 Summit St. restaurant and left a man seriously injured. Celestine was taken into custody later on the day the incident took place, the post said. Police have provided no additional information about the case other than the two men 'engaged in a conversation prior to the shooting.' A Kane County judge has ordered that Celestine be held in the Kane County jail while the case works its way through court.
