VP Kamala Harris statement on the death of Quincy Jones

VP Kamala Harris released the following statement on the death of Quincy Jones:

Quincy Jones was a trailblazer.

As a composer, arranger, record and movie producer, he created art that brought joy to millions of people. As an activist, Quincy championed civil and human rights. As a role model, he offered inspiration and mentorship, in particular for young people of color in the music industry.

I was honored to call Quincy a friend, and I will always remember his generosity of spirit, his selfless support, and his deep kindness.

Doug and I are praying for the Jones family and all those who loved him.

Dancer Misty Copeland Named 2024 Heisman Humanitarian

The Heisman Trophy Trust proudly announces Misty Copeland, celebrated ballet dancer and advocate, as the recipient of the 2024 Heisman Humanitarian Award.

Copeland, a groundbreaking figure in the world of ballet, became the first African American woman promoted to principal dancer at American Ballet Theatre (ABT) in 2015. Beyond her illustrious career, Copeland’s work as an advocate for children of color through her Misty Copeland Foundation, founded in 2021 to bring diversity, equity and inclusion through dance, especially in under-resourced communities.

The foundation’s signature program, BE BOLD, stands for Ballet Explorations Ballet Offers Leadership Development. The program strives to address the gap in afterschool programs and limited access to formal dance instruction, particularly in communities of color. By offering a holistic dance education, the program aims to bring more people of color into the world of ballet and other dance forms. This free program features five linked components: Introductory Ballet, Health & Wellness, Music for Ballet, Mentoring, and Tutoring. BE BOLD serves girls and boys ages 5-12.

“Misty Copeland’s leadership and advocacy for youth empowerment align perfectly with the Heisman’s mission of perseverance, excellence, leadership, and community,” said Mike Comerford, President of the Heisman Trophy Trust.

“Through BE BOLD and future initiatives of the Foundation, I’m excited to bring the beauty of the arts to those who need it most,” said Misty Copeland.

Copeland will be honored at the Heisman Legends Brunch in New York City, where the Trust will present her with a $75,000 donation to support the BE BOLD program, which transforms conventional dance education and strives to make ballet accessible, affordable and fun.

The Heisman Humanitarian Award recognizes athletes making a difference off the field. Copeland joins past recipients including soccer icon Mia Hamm, NASCAR’s Jeff Gordon, Olympic skater Kristi Yamaguchi and Hall of Fame basketball coach, Mike Krzyzewski.

WATCH: Kamala Harris Final Campaign Ad Before Election

Watch Kamala Harris' Final Campaign Ad Before Election in which she promises a brighter future:

I’m asking for your vote because as president, I will get up every day and fight for the American people. pic.twitter.com/lp4bj90zvn

— Kamala Harris (@KamalaHarris) November 2, 2024

WATCH: Michelle Obama Speaks at Montgomery County Pennsylvania Rally in support of VP Kamala Harris

Watch Michelle Obama's full speech at a Montgomery County Pennsylvania Rally in support of VP Kamala Harris on November 2, 2024.

Mr. Olympia Samson Dauda Signs Multi-Year Deal with Hosstile

Hosstile Inc. proudly announces that IFBB Pro Samson Dauda, one of the sport's elite bodybuilders, has been crowned the 2024 Mr. Olympia, marking his place in bodybuilding history. Along with the prestigious title, Dauda earned a record-breaking prize of $600,000—the largest sum ever awarded in a bodybuilding competition. Dauda, originally from Nigeria and now residing in the United Kingdom, has become the 19th Mr. Olympia in the 60-year history of the prestigious competition. This victory is particularly significant as Dauda is the first athlete in over two decades to bring the title back to the UK since six-time Mr. Olympia Dorian Yates last won in 1997.

In addition to his Mr. Olympia win, Dauda was also named the 2024 People's Champion, a title awarded by fans for his impact both on and off the stage. Earlier in his career, Dauda captured the 2023 Arnold Classic title, further solidifying his standing as one of the top bodybuilders in the world. Following his Mr. Olympia victory, Dauda announced that he will be competing in the 2025 Arnold Classic, aiming to reclaim his Arnold title.

Dauda has recently signed a multi-year deal with his longtime sponsor, Hosstile Inc., continuing a partnership that began in 2020. As a proud sponsor, Hosstile has been honored to support Dauda on his journey. Before joining the Hosstile team, Samson balanced his construction job with his passion for bodybuilding. Recognizing Dauda's immense potential, Hosstile co-founder and former IFBB Pro Fouad Abiad offered him the opportunity to focus solely on bodybuilding, helping pave the way for his meteoric rise to the Olympia stage.

"Samson's work ethic, dedication, and the sacrifices he made before joining Hosstile showed us that he had the potential to be a champion. Watching him rise to the top and win the 2024 Mr. Olympia is an incredibly proud moment for Hosstile and for me personally. We are honored to continue supporting him as he cements his legacy in bodybuilding," said Fouad Abiad, COO and co-founder of Hosstile.

"Hosstile has been one of the biggest driving forces in my rise to success. From the early days of believing in my potential to now being Mr. Olympia, they've stood by me. Few can say they've helped guide an athlete from a first Olympia qualification to Arnold Classic champion and Mr. Olympia in just four years. Hosstile truly embodies integrity, hard work, and values," said Samson Dauda.

Dauda's inspiring journey from his days working in construction to becoming the most prestigious titleholder in bodybuilding is a testament to his resilience, hard work, and the unwavering support and guidance of his coach and wife, Marlena Dauda, who made history as the first female coach to lead an IFBB Pro Open Bodybuilder to the Mr. Olympia crown.

Hosstile is also celebrating the remarkable performance of its rising star, IFBB Pro Martin Fitzwater, who placed 4th in his Olympia debut. This impressive finish puts Fitzwater among the elite few who have achieved such a ranking in their first Mr. Olympia competition, solidifying his status as one of the sport's most promising up-and-coming talents.

"While I'm incredibly proud of what we accomplished this weekend, the work doesn't stop here. It's time to get back to work and continue striving for even bigger goals," said Fitzwater.

For more information, please visit www.hosstile.com.