by Nahlah Abdur-Rahman

April 28, 2025

Son Of Atlanta Falcons Defensive Coordinator Admits And Apologizes For Prank-Calling Shadeur Sanders During NFL Draft

The son, Jax Ulbrich, publicly admitted to prank calling Sanders while he waited to be selected in the NFL draft.

The son of the Atlanta Falcons Defense Coordinator Jeff Ulbrich has admitted to and apologized for a prank calling made to Shedeur Sanders during the NFL draft.

Jax Ulbrich admitted to gaining access to Sanders’ number, a line exclusively made to contact NFL teams, by way of his father’s iPad. He then used the information to prank call Sanders as he awaited to be picked during the draft. Ulbrich, identified as a 21-year-old student-athlete at Berry College by the Times of India, shared his public apology to Instagram.

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A post shared by Jax Ulbrich (@jax_ulbrich)

“On Friday night I made a tremendous mistake. Sheduer (sic), what I did was completely inexcusable, embarrassing, and shameful,” Ulbrich wrote. “I’m so sorry I took away from your moment, it was selfish and childish. I could never imagine getting ready to celebrate one of the greatest moments of your life and I made a terrible mistake and messed with that moment.”

He then confirmed that he called Sanders again, this time in a non-pranking way, to apologize for his actions.

He added, “Thank you for accepting my call earlier today, I hope you can find it in your heart to forgive me.”

In a clip of the prank call released by Well Off Media, owned by Sanders’ brother, Deion Jr., Ulbrich posed as the New Orleans Saints’ general manager. CNN reported the conversation that went viral.

Ulbrich, then anonymous, told Sanders, “We’re going to take you with our next pick right here.”

Sanders proceeded to celebrate with friends and family until Ulbrich revealed the false nature of the call.

“But you’re going to have to wait a little longer, man. Sorry about that,” Ulbrich said and hung up.

The news made headlines as it added to the media frenzy surrounding Sanders’ prolonged selection in the draft. Once originally considered to be a first-round pick, the quarterback went unselected until the later rounds. The Cleveland Browns eventually selected him in the fifth round as the 144th overall pick.

However, the 23-year-old revealed that the prank call didn’t “have an impact” on his feelings. Instead, he called the matter “childish” while choosing to remain positive during the multi-day draft.

His father, NFL Hall of Famer and current University of Colorado Football head coach Deion Sanders, has yet to make a statement. Sanders played under his father at Jackson State for two years before completing another two seasons at Colorado.

The outgoing father-and-son duo have sparked an intense debate in the sports community for how their unabashed personalities may have played a role in Sanders’ emerging NFL career. The issue, given their status as successful Black men, also forged some conspiracies on the NFL’s alleged methods of humbling Black players.

The Falcons, however, apologized to the Sanders over the prank call, while also stating that the elder Ulbrich did not know of the “data exposure.”

“Jeff Ulbrich was unaware of the data exposure or any facets of the prank and was made aware of the above only after the fact,” wrote the franchise in a statement. “The Atlanta Falcons do not condone this behavior and send our sincere apologies to Shedeur Sanders and his family, who we have been in contact with to apologize to, as well as facilitate an apology directly from Jax to the Sanders family.”

The Falcons also stated that they will work with the NFL as they continue to investigate the situation. The league also told CNN that they will investigate other prank calls made to draftees.

by Sharelle B. McNair

April 28, 2025

Today Is Confederate Memorial Day And These States Are Still Proud Losers

Former Gov. Nathan Deal eliminated Confederate Memorial Day in Georgia after the Charleston 9 Massacre

Did you know April 26 is Confederate Memorial Day? If not, pay attention to some of the states that still celebrate the holiday honoring Confederate soldiers, Savannah Morning News reported.

Confederate Memorial Day was established in Georgia in 1866, commemorating the deaths of Confederate soldiers on the first anniversary of the day that Confederate Gen. Joseph Johnston surrendered the Army of Tennessee to Union Gen. William Sherman at Bennett Place, North Carolina. History says some of the Confederacy saw the negotiation as the end of the Civil War since Gen. Robert E. Lee surrendered the Army of Northern Virginia to the former president Gen. Ulysses S. Grant just two weeks prior.

The commemoration was an official holiday in the Peach State until 2015 when former Gov. Nathan Deal eliminated it — and Robert E. Lee’s birthday — from the state calendar after the tragic shooting at Emanuel AME Church in Charleston, South Carolina, taking the lives of nine Black people who were praying with the shooter. The holiday spread to a number of other Confederate states, with some changing the dates to identify with something more locally significant.

In Alabama, Confederate Memorial Day is recognized on April 28. States like South Carolina celebrate on May 9 and in Texas, the celebration is known as Confederate Heroes’ Day on January 19.

Mississippi recognizes April 28 to commemorate the holiday. However, lawmakers have since pushed back on why the celebration should be scrapped all together. Sen. Derrick Simmons, representing the state’s 12th District, labeled the commemoration as racist and “awful for Mississippians,” as public offices close and flags are lowered. “Celebrating Confederate Memorial Day is not only racist but is bad policy, bad governance and a deep stain on the values we claim to uphold today,” the senator wrote in an Mississippi Today op-ed.

After highlighting Confederate Vice President Alexander Stephens declaring the Confederacy was founded upon “the great truth that the negro is not equal to the white man” during his “Cornerstone Speech,” Simmons says honoring such a cause is “indefensible.” “It is an insult to every citizen who believes in equality and freedom, and it is a cruel slap in the face to Black Americans, whose ancestors endured the horrors of slavery and generations of systemic discrimination that followed,” he continued.

Before and after the 2020 death of George Floyd, sparking the Black Lives Matter movement, similar sentiments were acted on by removing several Confederate statues across the country. In Georgia, one outside Decatur was removed and replaced with a statue honoring the late Rep. John Lewis. Simmons says he will continue to replace Confederate Memorial Day with Juneteenth on June 19, as the confederate state does not recognize it as a state holiday despite former President Joe Biden mandating it as a federal holiday in 2021.

by Nahlah Abdur-Rahman

April 28, 2025

Sarah Jakes Roberts Steps Up As Bishop T.D. Jakes Steps Down As Pastor Of Potter’s House Church In Dallas

Jakes daughter and son-in-law, Sarah Jakes and Touré Roberts, will take over The Potter's House as senior pastors.

Bishop T.D. Jakes announced unexpected news during his Sunday service at The Potter’s House Church April 27. Going forward, his daughter Sarah Jakes and her husband, Touré Robert,s will continue in the senior pastoral role as he is stepping away from the pulpit.

Jakes will step down from duties as pastor over his Dallas church in light of the “massive heart attack” he endured while preaching months before.

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A post shared by T.D. Jakes (@bishopjakes)

Fox 4 reported that a tearful Jakes made the declaration to his congregation. The world-renowned preacher expressed his gratitude to his base church. He has served as its lead pastor pastor since he founded it in 1996.

“You have been faithful to God, and you have been faithful to me,” asserted Jakes, according to NBC DFW. “And I’m so grateful.”

Leading up to his departure from the position, Jakes suffered a medical scare while preaching during a Sunday Service in November 2024. He later confirmed that doctors called it a “massive heart attack,” during a March interview on the Today show. The ordeal left many wondering about the health and future of Jakes. Fans now hope that his stepping down will allow him to focus on his recovery.

In a press release, Jakes revealed his evolving plans to better serve his local and extended community. As a global faith leader, he hopes to address economic and social challenges while still providing ministry.

“For nearly 50 years, I’ve had the honor of connecting with and serving the local and global community as a pastor, global faith leader and unwavering truth teller,” Jakes said. “As I enter my 50th year in the public spotlight, I recognize the urgent need to address more challenges of our time, particularly the looming threat of a disappearing middle class, social unrest and closing opportunity gaps. This pivotal moment calls me to focus on a legacy of economic empowerment, serving as a bridge between community, culture, and corporate alliances to help position our nation for a stronger future.”

However, the Bishop hopes to continue the tradition he established with The Potter’s House through his daughter. Calling it a “rebirth,” he hopes the married duo will provide spiritual guidance for the next generations.

He added, “Elevating Pastor Touré and Pastor Sarah as the new senior pastors of The Potter’s House, we will honor our rich history while embracing a future that demands innovative, ministry for the coming age. This elevation is not a departure but a rebirth. I will never stop preaching and will continue to minister. This moment isn’t an ending, it’s an expansion. We are not only passing a mantle we are multiplying impact. Leadership is not static, it is dynamic. It demands the courage to evolve.”

RELATED CONTENT: Bishop TD Jakes Proves Religion is Good Business

by BLACK ENTERPRISE Editors

April 28, 2025

Can Cadillac Win Back Black Consumers As It Expands Into The Electric Vehicle Era?

Cadillac was once the preferred vehicle for the Black elite

Written by Kimatni D. Rawlins

As the mobility sector continues its multifaceted transition into electric vehicles (EV), we can look back to the origin story of Black car consumer’s love affair with Cadillac. It began during The Great Depression in the 1930s with an unwritten guideline for Cadillac dealers to refrain from selling to Black consumers who had become enamored with the brand. At the time, Cadillac sales were dismal.

However, German immigrant and Cadillac mechanic Nicholas Dreystadt noticed that a copious amount of well-off Black owners, including lawyers, athletes, singers, and doctors, were waiting in the service areas of the dealers he visited around the country. Dreystadt learned that they had paid white men to purchase their vehicles. Thus, he pitched a plan for Cadillac to discard the discriminatory policy and sell directly to these affluent Black individuals, which the company obliged. The goal was to cater directly to minorities to help increase sales. Yes, his 18-month plan worked in unison with other tactics, such as reducing production costs and increasing volume.

As you can imagine, Dreystadt’s career ascended to the head of Cadillac Division, while Black reverence for Cadillac persisted. The distinguished vehicles were written into popular culture by Black musicians and honored by celebrities like Redd Foxx, Jackie “Moms” Mabley, and famed boxer Sugar Ray Robinson, who took pride in his pink Cadillac convertible; and let’s not forget about Aretha Franklin, who also favored the vehicle, “going riding on the freeway of love in a pink Cadillac.”

Then there was Jimmy Liggins’ “Cadillac Boogie,” “Maybellene” by Chuck Berry, and Curtis Mayfield’s “Diamond in the Back” which was reimagined by Ludacris’ 2003 track. From the exquisite Coupe DeVille to the game-changing Escalade that took over the 2000s, Cadillac has always grasped the attention of Black culture. GM’s luxury department will attempt the same with its extended line of EVs including the Escalade IQ and Optiq.

With two distinct Optiq trims to choose from, Luxury and Sport, MSRP starts at $54,000. Cadillac owners of the new EV crossover can expect 20 standard safety systems, a 33” diagonal 9K resolution display, Google built-in infotainment, and standard Dolby Atmos software powering the custom-tuned 19-speaker AKG audio system. Sadly, Cadillac no longer works with Apple CarPlay, so there will be a learning curve using Google built-in. Atmos is a meticulously composed technique between the artist and the mixer that creates a 3D listening experience. The engineer determines where specific sounds are actualized, like where to position the guitar. 93% of Billboard’s top artists boast songs in Atmos, including Bob Marley’s “Legend.” You need Amazon Music, Apple Music, or Tidal to stream Dolby Atmos, as they unfortunately have no partnership with Spotify.

Visibly, the Optiq’s illuminating “Cadillac crest grille” is lower and more youthful. Vertical LED headlamps and a 4-taillamp strategy accentuate the design flow, and a fixed-glass roof with a power shade brings natural energy into the cabin. Specific design elements, including 20” aerodynamic alloy rims, low rolling resistance all-season tires, and a vented rear spoiler are simultaneously functional for increased wind resistance.

Behind the wheel, the Optiq moves with vigor in a straight line like most performance EVs, whether it’s Mercedes’ EQE SUV or Audi’s Q6 e-tron, yet hits corners like sprinters blazing around the arch of a 200-meter race thanks to its compliant suspension and AWD torque vectoring. You can also compare Optiq’s driving mannerisms to that of BMW’s highly respected IX.

An 85 kWh battery sends current to the two motors, which produce 300 horsepower. Cadillac states that 79 miles of rangec an be restored in roughly 10 minutesusing a public DC fast charger. However, most EV owners will install a Level 2 charger in their homes, as I did, for convenience and efficiency.

The Optiq’s interior commingles textile door trim from recycled materials like polyester yawn with upgradable PaperWood veneer, consisting of equal parts of recycled newspaper and Tulipwood. No starter button is required since the EV ignites when it syncs with the key upon cabin entry. A floating center console allows for more storage and 126-color ambient lighting sets your driving temperament, which should be energizing and engaged when pushing an EV.

Monarch Orange, Black Raven, and Radiant Red Tintcoatare a few color options to express your distinct EV personality. When you walk up to your new electric ride, a choreographed sequence of illumination begins from the headlamps and grille and continues around the Optiq’s sleek physique.

Today, 90% of all Escalade mentions in music originate from rap songs. Consequently, Cadillac’s momentum in hip-hop culture is further acknowledged through several mediums, including the Escalade IQ ft. Big Boi campaign, Lucky Daye, and rising R&B star KIRBY. Moreover, engaging conversations with cultural icons like world traveler Jessica Nabongo at ride-and-drive experiences and Black cultural festivals allow Cadillac to bring electrification education and awareness to diverse markets.

With its deep roster and historic foundation, the Cadillac brand caters to every type of auto consumer. As such, this is not your father’s or mother’s Cadillac. “Though you may not drive a great big Cadillac, diamond in the back, sunroof top, diggin’ the scene with a gangsta lean!”

While luxury automakers continue introducing new EVs with stately designs, advanced innovation, and increased battery range, Cadillac is spearheading its EV movement with an extensive roster of athletic performers. The latest recruit, dubbed Optiq, hits the field with 302 miles of range, dual motors, all-wheel drive, Super Cruise technology, and a Dolby Atmos audio system.

Cadillac offers seven EVs for its diverse clientele: Optiq, Lyriq, Lyriq-V, Vistiq, Escalade IQ, Escalade IQL, and Celestiq. The IQ label represents the American automaker’s strategic move to name-based products for its EV range. This pivot is in unison with nature, people, and machines. For instance, Optiq was manifested by the optical relationship between color, form, and light. Yet, Cadillac is not renouncing gas engines altogether; leadership is just preparing for the future as global warming, renewable energy, and climate change remain important topics of discussion.

by Cedric 'BIG CED' Thornton

April 28, 2025

New Tampa Bay Buccaneers Player Shilo Sanders ‘Fires’ Coach Prime To Hire NFL Agent

'Dad was our agent, but that hasn't been working out too good. So today I had to sign with an agent'

Although NFL Hall of Famer Deion Sanders represented both his NFL-bound sons before the NFL Draft, Shilo “fired” his father to sign with famed NFL agent Drew Rosenhaus.

According to USA Today, Shilo, who played with his brother, Shedeur, on the Colorado Buffaloes football team, coached by Deion, was signed by the Tampa Bay Buccaneers after no team selected him in the NFL Draft. Rosenhaus’ agency announced that Shilo signed with them on social media.

pic.twitter.com/Vr2rtBX53V

— Drew Rosenhaus (@DrewJRosenhaus) April 27, 2025

During a recent livestream, the defensive player announced that he was “firing” his father. While sitting with his brother, Shedeur, he jokingly stated that, seemingly, due to his brother’s predicted first-round selection dropping to the fifth round, his father’s representation “hasn’t been working” that well for them.

“Dad was our agent, but that hasn’t been working out too good. So today I had to sign with an agent.”

🔥 Shilo Announcement. He Has a New Agent 😂

“Dad was our agent, but that hasn’t been working out too good. So today I had to sign with an agent”

📽️ @ShiloSanders pic.twitter.com/4uZxJ0dCXT

— JaKi 🇺🇸 (@JaKiTruth) April 26, 2025

Shilo played the safety position at both schools his father coached, Jackson State and Colorado Boulder, as well as South Carolina. While at Colorado, he started 19 games during the 2023 and 2024 seasons, accumulating 134 tackles, forcing five fumbles, and recording one sack and an interception that he returned for a touchdown.

The New York Post reported that Deion showed pride and called both of his sons “resilient” after the two latched on to NFL teams.

“Both of y’all, you’re resilient,” he stated during the family’s live Twitch stream from their home in Texas.

Although initially predicted to go No. 1 and then top 10, Shedeur fell out of the first four rounds before being selected by the Cleveland Browns in the fifth round with the No. 144 overall pick.

by Ahsan Washington

April 28, 2025

7 Black Orgs To Link Up With For Volunteer Month

April is Volunteer Month

April is recognized as Volunteer Month, but it’s always a good time to remind people about the powerful impact of community service. Volunteering for organizations that advocate for vulnerable demographics and give back to those in need empowers communities and contributes to personal development. It can also be rewarding. BLACK ENTERPRISE has identified seven organizations to volunteer with and support.

NAACP

The National Association for the Advancement of Colored People isn’t just any civil rights group. When it comes to organizations with a track record of standing up against systemic racism, the NAACP has been in the trenches longer than most of us have been alive. Their history and impact are pretty remarkable when you think about it. Since 1909, the NAACP has been a powerhouse organization that’s been fighting the good fight for equality on all fronts: political, educational, social, and economic. NAACP encourages members to become helping hands to enrich Black communities and amplify the “voice of Black America,” particularly around voting, policy, and racial justice. Getting involved is easy. Visit the NAACP and connect with chapters in your area.

The Loveland Foundation

mental health, Black youth, suicide, Denver, documentary — (Photo: Getty Images)

The Loveland Foundation is all about empowering Black women and girls by helping them access therapy when they need it. The Loveland Foundation understands that mental wellness is vital and often under-resourced in Black communities. The Foundation steps in with financial support, so mental health services don’t remain out of reach. To make a difference, volunteers can lend a hand with fundraising, pitch in at events, or boost the organization’s digital presence. Head over to the Loveland Foundation website to get started.

Black Voters Matter

Mississippi voters, vite — JACKSON, MS – June 19: People attend a Black Voters Matter event as they buy tee shirts at Tougaloo College on June19, 2021 in Jackson, Mississippi. LaTosha Brown and Cliff Albright, co-founders of Black Voters Matter and other members of the organization are taking part in a Freedom Ride during a bus tour through Black Belt states to Washington DC for voting rights as Republican political leaders in several states propose new voting laws to limit voter access. The U.S. Senate is scheduled to vote on a voting rights bill on Tuesday, June 22 at the U.S. Capitol in Washington DC. (Photo by Joshua Lott/The Washington Post via Getty Images)

Look, voting rights remain under attack for Black and brown communities. Getting involved isn’t solely about politics, it’s about standing up for democracy itself. And that matters for all of us.

Black Voters Matter is fighting to boost political clout in Black communities across the country. The organization actively organizes voter outreach programs, runs educational initiatives, and advocates for change where it matters. Black Voters Matter initiatives ramp up around election season but its work never stops. The organization is in the trenches year-round because democracy is a full-time job. Join the movement by heading over to the Black Voters Matter website and sign up. It’s that simple.

SisterReach

Abortion rights advocates protest, Black Women, State Abortion Bans — (Photo by Shuran Huang for The Washington Post via Getty Images)

SisterReach is an organization that centers on reproductive and sexual justice, and champions the rights of Black women, women of color, and LGBTQIA+ individuals. This Tennessee-based and Black-woman-led organization leans into health education, vigilant rights advocacy, and is dedicated to extensive community outreach throughout the year. By contributing to a vital cause, volunteers ensure that bodily autonomy and justice for underserved populations continues to be a human right. Individuals who are interested, who find themselves aligned with maintaining the rights of women, and who want to play an active role in the SisterReach mission, can do so by volunteering for various community events or advocacy campaigns with the organization.

Dream Defenders

South Carolina ACLU Joins Fight To Free BLM Protestor In Prison — Photo by Olivier Douliery/AFP/Bloomberg via Getty Images

Dream Defenders is a dynamic collective of young, passionate individuals who are fighting for social justice within Black communities. Dream Defenders’ mission is deeply rooted in the legacy of Trayvon Martin, reminding us all that the voices of youth are not just important, they are crucial. The organization tirelessly advocates for transformative police reform, equitable housing policies, and enhanced educational opportunities. Dream Defenders’ commitment to activism knows no bounds. The organization rallies year-round for change. You can join the movement by volunteering boots on the ground in your neighborhood or in a remote capacity.

Black Men Heal

Unfortunately, the shadow of mental health stigma is one that looms over many communities, and the obstacles that make access difficult are profound. Both emphasize the critical need for support and understanding in our communities, particularly around Black men. Black Men Heal is a mental health organization that is dedicated to addressing the need for these services for Black men. The organization provides invaluable resources, such as complimentary therapy sessions and engaging community discussions. At the heart of Black Men Heal’s mission, lies an ongoing demand for outreach volunteers. Those eager to help can sign up through the Black Men Heal website.

National Black Food & Justice Alliance

Volunteer, organization — (Photo: Anderson Coelho/Getty Images)

Food and land signify more than mere resources; they embody power and serve as vital instruments in the pursuit of liberation. National Black Food & Justice Alliance is a coalition of Black-led organizations relentlessly striving for food sovereignty and justice in land usage. The organization approaches agriculture, activism, and policy-making in its effort to create a change. For those wishing to empower farming initiatives or contribute to advocacy efforts, explore the possibilities at blackfoodjustice.org.

by Nahlah Abdur-Rahman

April 28, 2025

Historic Black Church In Virginia Pays Off Debt Of 11 Graduating Seniors At Saint Augustine’s University

The donation covers the debts of the last 11 students with outstanding payments ahead of graduation.

A historic Black church in Virginia has paid off the debts of 11 graduating seniors at Saint Augustine’s University.

The Alfred Street Baptist Church of Alexandria, Virginia, donated a lofty sum of $132,469 to cover the final payments of 11 seniors at the North Carolina HBCU. According to Diverse Education, the news comes ahead of SAU’s commencement ceremony on May 3.

The monumental gift will allow these students to receive their diplomas with this financial stress relieved. The university’s interim president, Dr. Marcus H. Burgess, expressed their gratitude toward the congregation for blessing these soon-to-be graduates.

“This act of grace by Alfred Street Baptist Church is nothing short of transformative for our students and our institution,” said SAU Interim President Dr. Marcus H. Burgess. “We are immensely grateful for this demonstration of faith and partnership.”

The church is known for its position as one of the oldest and biggest predominately Black congregations. In its 222-year history, it has been a long-time supporter of HBCUs. Church officials also stated that around 60% of its 13,000 members are HBCU alum.

“This is what ministry looks like,” proclaimed Rev. Dr. Howard-John Wesley, Senior Pastor of Alfred Street Baptist Church. “We believe in investing in students, in HBCUs, and in a future where financial hardship should never be a barrier to graduation.”

However, the Virginia-based church’s efforts to help SAU seniors comes from two its of members. Gilbert and Carolyn Knowles advocated for their alma mater to help students receive the crucial financial support.

“When my wife and I discovered that our church, Alfred Street, approved the donation and the amount they would give to SAU, we cried tears of joy out of love for our church and our alma mater,” shared Gilbert, who graduated from SAU in 1976.

The news also comes as SAU fights a battle to keep its accreditation. Like other HBCUs, the school has also faced hurdles in its financial upkeep and sustainability, leaving its future as a learning center for Black scholars in jeopardy. Especially as the Trump Administration proposes budget cuts to education funding, many of these institutions remain at an extreme risk of going under.

However, institutions like Alfred Street continue to rally behind these schools, ensuring future Black leaders obtain an HBCU education. Representatives for the church will also attend SAU’s commencement ceremony, celebrating the very graduates whose dreams were fulfilled due to the extended communal support.

by Nahlah Abdur-Rahman

April 28, 2025

Tina Knowles Put Daughters Beyoncé And Solange In Therapy As Children; Here’s Why

The attentive mother wanted to ensure her girls would grow up close.

Tina Knowles is the matriarch for a reason. The mother of Beyoncé and Solange dived into why she decided to put her daughters into therapy at a young age.

Knowles revealed that she put the young girls into therapy to work on their sibling relationship. She recalled what led up to the decision in a recent interview with CBS This Morning‘s Gayle King for the rollout of her memoir, Matriarch.

@cbsmornings Tina Knowles made the decision early on in Beyoncé and Solange's lives to put the sisters into therapy, despite what her family thought: "I just started seeing this separation and I said, oh no, y'all are going to grow up close." #tinaknowles #beyonce #solange ♬ original sound – CBS Mornings

The attentive mother wanted to ensure her daughters had the strong bond they currently share together. While the iconic sibling duo have shown up for each other’s projects over the years, their mother’s will fostered this close relationship.

As Beyoncé became a “little star” in the making within Houston, her mother began to notice the separation between her and younger sister, Solange. Not wanting the two girls to let fame divide them, Knowles took the then-unusual approach of speaking with a therapist.

At first, relatives expressed concern over the introduction of a therapist into their world. Knowles even shared that the girls’ father, Matthew, also opposed the idea.

“My family was upset, and even Matthew [her ex-husband and children’s father] was not happy. He was like ‘I don’t want any parts of that,’” she recalled during the interview.

When Beyoncé was 12 and joined a singing group, the soon-to-be “Alien Superstar” became annoyed with the younger sibling’s intrusion in her practices. Sensing the potential trouble, their mother began to intervene.

“And I started noticing that she wasn’t protecting her sister, and you know I got a thing about that. I just started seeing this separation, and I said ‘Oh no. Y’all are gonna grow up close,’” Knowles said to King. “Whatever I have to do to make that happen.”

With her determination, the girls began to speak with a therapist to work out their feelings. Now, the entire Knowles family remains close as they support their Matriarch on her own journey. Knowles’ memoir on her personal upbringing to rise as a mother of legendary entertainers is available now.

by Jeroslyn JoVonn

April 28, 2025

Debbie Allen Dance Academy Hosts Free Skating Classes For Families Affected By The LA Wildfires

The Debbie Allen Dance Academy is working to keep smiles on the faces of LA wildfire victims through a free skating event series.

Debbie Allen and the Debbie Allen Dance Academy have been helping to lift the spirits of the children and families impacted by the Los Angeles wildfires by inviting them to free skating sessions.

On April 27, Allen will team up with Sunshine Skate Foundation for another edition of the free “Dancing in the Light: Healing with the Arts” series. Held bi-monthly, the free skating series kicked off in late January, weeks after a series of fires ravaged through communities in L.A., including the Eaton Fire in Altadena and the Palisades Fire.

The traveling event has been hosted at locations throughout L.A., including the Rhimes Performing Arts Center, Pasadena City College, Glendale High School, and The Wallis in Beverly Hills. Allen has leveraged her star power to attract top master choreographers to offer free dance lessons, including JaQuel Knight, Laurieann Gibson, Lyrik Cruz, Phil Wright, and DADA master faculty member Karen McDonald, among others.

“Dancing In The Light will kick ball change into a day of dancing on skates on Sunday, April 27 at the Rhimes Performing Arts Center,” Allen said in a press release. “I’m so excited to announce this new edition. Come and bounce with me, Y’ALL!! Free skates and classes provided by Sunshine Skate Foundation. Meet me at the rink!!!”

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A post shared by Debbie Allen Dance Academy (@officialdadance)

The famed choreographer and actress designed the event series to uplift residents of Altadena, Pasadena, Pacific Palisades, Santa Monica, Encino, and surrounding communities impacted by the devastating fires. Open to ages four and up — no experience needed — the skating sessions will include four instructional classes: Intro to Roller Skating, Line Dance Roller Skating, Ballroom Roller Skating, and Middle Game (Artistic Dance) Roller Skating.

Attendees can also enjoy open skate areas set to lively music. Rental skates and protective gear will be provided for youth.

“Roller skating is a great way to stay physically active and have fun. We are excited to spread joy to LA County at large, and provide a safe space for the community to gather and express themselves through movement,” said Cory Joseph, Founder & Executive Director of Sunshine Skate Foundation. “Roller skating teaches you resilience. Every new skater can tell you it’s not if you’ll fall, but when. How you get back up is the most important part. And this is the lesson we teach through our roller skating events.”

retirement, social security, Hockenmaier, 401(K), retirement, social security, tax break, georgia, Georgia,, bills, utility

by Jeffrey McKinney

April 28, 2025

8 Ways Black Americans Can Shrink Their Utility Bills As Those Costs Climb

Less income and energy-efficiency issues can make paying utility bills more difficult for Black Americans,

Fresh data shows nearly 60% of Black Americans are overpowered by the rising cost of utility bills. And with summer coming soon, 47% of them fear what their electric bills will be during that season.

The discoveries illustrate how Black people are often hit harder by paying for utilities than other racial groups. The data is tied to the American Home Shield (AHS) report recently provided to BLACK ENTERPRISE. The research was broken down to show how Blacks are often hit harder by paying for utilities than other racial groups.

More specifically, the analysis showed some 59% of Blacks are overwhelmed by utility bills versus 54% for those overall. Forty-seven percent of Black respondents are worried about affording summer electric bills, compared to 42% of those questioned. Just over 1,000 U.S. renters and homeowners were asked late last year how they are grappling with utility bills and how they are managing the payments. In total, 258 respondents, or approximately 26%, identified as Black Americans.

The survey revealed that the total average monthly utility bill for Black Americans, encompassing electricity, internet, oil, water, and gas, was $653 as of New Year’s Day 2025. That was $180 higher than the national average for all races, which is $473. All told, nearly 90 percent of those surveyed reported their utilities have risen in the last year.

The bottom line Is That Rising utility costs are cited as a significant challenge and a greater burden for many Black individuals, primarily due to lower incomes, energy efficiency issues, and the location of their homes, among other factors.

Simultaneously, President Donald Trump’s 25% tariffs on Canada and Mexico are reportedly likely to exacerbate the situation. For instance, Canadian electricity, valued at billions of dollars, might be impacted as the tax levies on imports in those countries could boost energy costs.

The tariffs are projected to markedly inflate energy bills in the nation’s Midwestern states, many of which have large Black populations.

According to a report, 52 million Americans struggle to pay their energy bills, stated Isaac Sevier, executive director of Public Grids.

He said, Trump’s move will make that deep affordability crisis even worse.”

The AHS survey divulged that 35% of Blacks are struggling to pay bills. And 68% of Blacks don’t comprehend why rate hikes occur versus 61% for the whole. Still, Blacks are taking steps to cut bills, as 33% of them are installing solar panels, almost double the rate of those overall. And 82% of Blacks back nationalizing the electric grid to stabilize prices.

Additionally, you can make strategic moves to help protect yourself from rising utility costs. Here are some tips from American Home Shield, one of the nation’s largest home warranty firms:

Above all, be sure to examine your bills rigorously: While some 63% of Americans now do that, barely over 25% have disputed an electric bill. Out of that, around ended up owing less than the original bill they received, resulting in a saving of $433 on average from mistaken charges. Be mindful that electricity typically accounts for the highest portion of utility bills.

Be more energy efficient: A smart way to reduce costs is to manage heating and cooling better. They account for nearly half of your power bill. One suggestion: Possibly save up to 10% on those costs by adjusting your thermostat by around 7-10°F for eight hours a day.

Switch to LED lighting: If you haven’t already, consider switching to LED bulbs from traditional incandescent ones. The reason: Those bulbs use around six times the power of LEDs. Those costs could increase significantly as most households depend on overhead lights and lamps at night.

Get rid of old appliances: It’s time to discard appliances that are more than a decade old. With technology ever changing, modern appliances and gadgets operate more efficiently. Be aware that older electronics may use up to 66% more power than newer models.

Pay attention to hidden costs: Unplug appliances and electronics, such as microwaves, TVs, and desktop computers, that use energy when left plugged into an outlet. Those fees can add up.

Adjust your bathing routines: Taking a long, hot bath can be soothing, but it can also be costly. The use of hot water accounts for a significant portion of a home’s energy consumption. If possible, replace your showerhead with a low-flow unit to help reduce water usage and pressure.

Wash clothes more correctly. Doing this in cold or warm water is recommended. Switching your loads from hot to warm water can shave your energy use by half.

Check out other ways to cut costs: This site includes tips on everything from making your home more energy efficient to how using that approach could help yield average yearly savings ranging from $105 to $627 with minimal effort.