money, Shedeur Sanders
Photo by Matthew Stockman/Getty Images
by Cedric 'BIG CED' Thornton

April 30, 2025

NFL Fines Atlanta Falcons, Defensive Coordinator For Prank Call To Shedeur Sanders

The NFL team was fined $250,000, and their defensive coordinator, Jeff Ulbrich, was fined $100,000

The National Football League has fined the Atlanta Falcons and its defensive coordinator after the coach’s son made a prank call to Cleveland Browns quarterback Shedeur Sanders during the recent NFL Draft.

The Falcons were fined $250,000. Defensive coordinator Jeff Ulbrich was fined $100,000 for “failing to prevent the disclosure of confidential information distributed to the club in advance of the 2025 NFL Draft.”

“We appreciate the NFL’s swift and thorough review of last week’s data exposure and the event that transpired due to it,” the Falcons said in a written statement.

The team said it cooperated with the league and accepted the penalty. 

“We are confident in our security policies and practices and will continue to emphasize adherence to them with our staff, whether on or off premises,” the Falcons added. “Additionally, the Ulbrich family is working with the organization to participate in community service initiatives in relation to last week’s matter.”

Ulbrich’s son, Jax, called Sanders after stealing the phone number from his father’s iPad during a visit to his parents’ home. Jax Ulbrich then called Sanders and told him he was Mickey Loomis, the New Orleans Saints general manager. 

“We’re going to take you with our next pick, man, but you’re going to have to wait a little bit longer, man,” Jax Ulbrich said. “Sorry about that.”

After word got out about the prank, the younger Ulbrich admitted to his father what he had done. Jeff Ulbrich informed the team, and the Falcons released a statement taking responsibility for Jax Ulbrich’s actions.

The defensive coordinator spoke to the media after learning about the fine. He apologized to Shedeur Sanders and his family and the Falcons organization before turning the focus to himself. 

“My actions—my actions—of not protecting confidential data were inexcusable,” Jeff Ulbrich said. “My son’s actions were absolutely inexcusable, and for that, we are both deeply sorry. The NFL has taken action, and I fully respect the punishment. We take full responsibility, both my son and myself, and we will not be appearing the fine in any way. Going forward, I promise my son and I will work hard to demonstrate that we are better than this. Again, I am deeply sorry for our actions.”

Shedeur Sanders accepted Jax Ulbrich’s apology, which he had offered privately before making it public.

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Federal Literacy Grant Program, Reading Scores, D.C.
(Photo: pixdeluxe/Getty Images)
by Kandiss Edwards

April 30, 2025

Metro Atlanta Schools Meet To Reinstate DEI Policies

Decatur Schools Board of Education votes to reinstate DEI policies after debating the school districts compliance.

The City Schools of Decatur Board of Education has unanimously voted to reinstate several diversity, equity and inclusion policies. 

Decatur’s board previously amended or rescinded former DEI policies. The decision, made during a special-called meeting, addressed equal employment opportunities, educational access, and gender equity in sports. 

Earlier this month, the board had modified or removed these policies in response to directives issued by the White House and concerns about potential loss of federal funding. However, recent federal court rulings prompted officials to reconsider and ultimately restore the DEI policies.

The meeting was held on April 29 at the Wilson Center and was live-streamed for constituents who were unable to attend in person.

Eliminating DEI policies earlier in 2025 was in response to the Department of Education’s attack on DEI initiatives in schools. Fear over loss of funding stems from the Department of Education’s recent memo, called the “Dear Colleague” letter, naming the policies “race-based” preferences. 

“American educational institutions have discriminated against students based on race, including white and Asian students, many of whom come from disadvantaged backgrounds and low-income families. These institutions’ embrace of pervasive and repugnant race-based preferences and other forms of racial discrimination has emanated throughout every facet of academia.”

The reinstated policies aim to ensure that all students and staff have equitable access to educational resources and opportunities. DEI policies in the district seek to address the large gap in academic success for the most underserved demographics. This approach by schools reflects the district’s commitment to fostering an inclusive environment. 

City Schools of Decatur has a history of prioritizing equity. In 2019, the district revamped its equity department, led by Executive Director Lillie Huddleston. This department oversees various support services, including school nurses, psychologists, academic support, counseling and social work, while addressing the needs of homeless students. 

The board’s recent action underscores its dedication to upholding DEI principles even amid evolving federal guidelines and potential funding implications. 

RELATED CONTENT: Decatur City Schools Will Now Charge Tuition For Out of District K-5 Students

Jemele Hill, ESPN, Larry Bird, Magic Johnson, basketball, rivalry
Journalist Jemele Hill in 2022. (Photo: Robin L Marshall/Getty Images)
by Jeroslyn JoVonn

April 30, 2025

Jemele Hill Says Deion Sanders ‘May Have Overplayed His Hand’ In Shedeur Sanders NFL Draft Slide

Jemele Hill is ruling out racism as the cause for Shedeur Sanders NFL draft slide, and instead cites his father.

Jemele Hill is weighing in on the debate over Shedeur Sanders’ slide in the NFL Draft, saying she doesn’t believe race is the issue. Instead, she suggests his Super Bowl-winning father, Deion Sanders, may be the real reason.

The sports columnist made an April 28 appearance on The Dan Le Batard Show with Stugotz, where she dismissed the narrative that Shedeur fell to the fifth round because he’s a confident Black athlete. Hill, who doesn’t think it was because of Shedeur’s race “at all,” explained why she believes Deion is the real person to blame.

“The bottom line is maybe we should accept the fact — and this is not to say that Shedeur Sanders cannot go on to have a great NFL career, can’t do great things — but maybe we, as Black people need to accept the fact that Deion Sanders may have overplayed his hand a little bit,” Hill said, as captured by Fox Sports.

“And there’s no crime in him infusing all the confidence in Shedeur. I was not bothered by the wrist flexing, none of that. NFL teams, if you’re talented enough, they don’t care. And we have seen this countless times.”

Hill pointed out that several players with controversies attached to their names were drafted well before Shedeur, who the Cleveland Browns ultimately selected as the 144th pick in the fifth round. In her view, teams tend to overlook fixable scandals when the talent is undeniable.

“In the NFL, they make these talent decisions all the time, but if the talent is worth it, they don’t give a damn if he showed up in gold-plated everything, flashing whatever, as long as you can play,” Hill said. “That’s all they care about.”

She also shared her sympathy for No. 1 pick Cam Ward, whose big moment was outshone by the widespread attention over Shedeur’s draft fall.

“But the person I really feel sorry for is Cam Ward. Cam Ward went No. 1. Cam Ward was a zero-star recruit from a two-parent home — because you know how we like to throw that around on some respectability type of stuff,” Hill said. “He is a fantastic player, confident, did all the things, drafted No. 1, and with the way people have so embraced this narrative that Shedeur was done so wrong, it’s like they’re basically making Cam Ward sound like he’s Steven from ‘Django.’”

Hill continued. “And I’m like, you don’t even know this kid! Suddenly, he’s painted in this light because, ‘Oh, the NFL will accept that type of Black but not this type of Black.’ It’s like, do you know how many players, how many Black players, went ahead of Shedeur Sanders? It’s a lot of them.”

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John Hope Bryant
(Photo: Jay Godwin/LBJ Library)
by Kandiss Edwards

April 30, 2025

John Hope Bryant Shares Rent To Own Strategies

John Hope Bryant shares tips that help renters gain financial stability and help landlords profit with compassion.

John Hope Bryant, founder and CEO of Operation HOPE, recently shared his rent-to-own strategies, which he believes provide tenants “dignity, opportunity, and grace.”

 Bryant continues to lead efforts to bridge the racial wealth gap by promoting financial literacy and increasing Black home ownership. The financial guru outlined a compassionate and uplifting plan to help renters not only build their credit scores but also prepare for potential financial hardship. The entrepreneur was, at one time, the “largest minority owner of single-family rental homes in the country.” 

  • Tenants’ rent will be reduced by 10% if they raise their credit score from 600 to 700 
  • If the renter maintains residency for 18 months, they receive 1 month of “life event credit” per 18-month tenure. This equates to three months of “free rent” in case of financial hardship. 
  • Tenants are also able to borrow from their security deposit, paying back the money in small increments over time.

Operation Hope has become a leading nonprofit organization dedicated to financial empowerment. Under Bryant’s leadership, the organization has facilitated over $2 billion in private capital to support homeownership, small business and community development in underserved areas. 

Despite these efforts, Black homeownership rates remain significantly lower than those of white Americans. As of 2024, Black homeownership accounted for 46.4% of the population. In contrast, overall homeownership stands at 65.7%, Axios reported.

Bryant emphasized the importance of homeownership in building generational wealth. 

“The entire experience around homeownership is embedded in aspirational economic growth and wealth creation,” he stated in a recent Instagram post.

Bryant’s work with Operation HOPE continues to uplift the Black community. The organization equips individuals with the knowledge and tools necessary to achieve financial stability and homeownership. He also shares financial strategies on his weekly podcast, Money and Wealth.

As efforts continue to close the racial homeownership gap, Bryant’s initiatives remain a central force in promoting financial literacy and economic opportunity in Black communities.

RELATED CONTENT: Dr. Lorie A. L. Nicholas Speaks On Financial Recovery And Literacy

college,, decision day, tuition
Photo by Godisable Jacob: https://www.pexels.com/photo/woman-wearing-black-graduation-coat-sits-on-stairs-901962/
by Nahlah Abdur-Rahman

April 30, 2025

Keeping Your Pockets In Mind As National College Decision Day Approaches

Financial experts weigh in on what cost factors students and families should consider.

With National College Decision Day approaching, making a choice that prioritizes finances can make the most impact on one’s future.

While May 1 is the official deadline for most to pick a college, many students have multiple factors weighing in on the decision. Considering student loan forgiveness remains a constant battle in Congress, incoming freshman must grasp the costs of their future education.

Student loan officers are encouraging students to truly understand the monetary commitment of these institutions. One’s dream school may leave a heavy burden if they cannot afford the tuition and fees.

“It’s not just about the dream school and the academics and setting you up for the right career trajectory, it’s also about the cost — that is a real issue,” said Chris Ebeling, head of student lending at Citizens Financial Group to CNBC.

Money experts have shared their own advice to cautious students ahead of their four-year decision. They urge students and parents to get the net price, also known as total cost of attendance, one must pay.

The net price is specific to each student, considering the grants and scholarships they may receive to offset this cost.

The College Board offers a net price calculator to help families visualize the actual amount they can anticipate spending. This number can vary, with some schools coming with shockingly low net prices, such as Harvard due to its substantive financial aid awards.

Families should also read the fine print when it comes to their FAFSA awards. Once students fill out the Free Application for Federal Student Aid, knowing the difference between each option is crucial.

Experts say families should try to maximize gifts like grants and scholarships, while taking in as little in loans as possible. Understanding the eligibility requirements for each of these options can help build a financial plan for the next four years.

Merit-based scholarships are still within reach as well, with the College Board or Scholarships.com having more information on these opportunities.

“There are many different scholarships that can be based on talents and interests, membership in professional or social organizations, or even luck of the draw,” says Matt Lattman, a senior vice president at Discover. “Some scholarships are annual, others per semester, and some even provide a monthly opportunity to earn money towards your education.”

If one must take out loans, Ebeling says to start with federal direct subsidized and unsubsidized loans. For a more traditional route to preparing for college costs, a 529 college savings plan can also help.

With tuition typically rising by 5% every year, developing a financial plan to last through graduation can help lessen the potential stress of paying for college throughout and beyond one’s journey. While many should celebrate National College Decision Day, making an informed choice can lead to long-term benefits.

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Out with the old, in with the new, healthy, fitness, resolutions, milestones, 2024,
Photo by Wand_Prapan/Getty Images
by Nahlah Abdur-Rahman

April 30, 2025

‘The Power Of Food’ Panel In Atlanta To Amplify Health Benefits Of Plant-Based Diet And Entrepreneurship

The event will explore the economic and health benefits of growing the plant-based community in Atlanta.

The Atlanta culinary scene will host “The Power of Food” Panel to amplify plant-based eating and health-focused “foodpreneurs.”

The discussion will bring together Leslie Zinn, founder of Arden’s Garden; Kevin “Chef Kev” McGee, executive director of the Urban Oak Initiative; and Kemi Bennings, CEO of Carrot Dog. In their groundbreaking conversation, the food industry leaders will dissect the benefits of a plant-based eating lifestyle.

Taking place in Atlanta’s Pittsburgh Yards on May 7, the event aims to encourage and inform plant-based eaters about the numerous business opportunities available. Additionally, in line with its food-focused mission, audience members can also indulge in tastings from other plant-based eateries that are expected to attend.

The main sponsor for the event is the Urban Oak Initiative through its “Foodpreneur” program. The panel will also offer a sneak peek into the Urban Oak’s Food Studio. Upon its opening, the studio will serve as one of the country’s first plant-based shared kitchen incubators.

McGee, a family founder of the Initiative, believes the event will promote the economic empowerment of plant-based eating that can better serve marginalized communities. In a press release shared with BLACK ENTERPRISE, the executive director also expressed that the panel’s goal is to become a “catalyst for change.”

“The Power of Food’ is more than an event—it’s a movement. This gathering of entrepreneurs,
industry leaders and changemakers will explore how plant-based businesses drive economic
empowerment, improve health, and revitalize underserved communities,” said McGee. “With
food insecurity and sustainability at the forefront, this event will highlight how plant-based
Entrepreneurship can be accessible, profitable, and a catalyst for change.”

As for its location in Atlanta, fellow panelist Zinn also aims to continue her restaurant’s mission of making healthy food accessible and tasty for all. While the city grapples with food deserts, Zinn aims to promote a greater focus on access to fresh food.

“Atlanta is my hometown, and from the moment my mother opened the first Arden’s Garden store in Midtown, our mission has been clear: to make healthy, affordable, plant-based food accessible to communities all across the region,” she said. “There’s a common misconception that underserved communities aren’t interested in fresh food—but the success of our stores proves otherwise.”

The free panel aims to attract all those curious and excited about the growth of plant-based food options to come and learn more about the community. Registration remains available on Eventbrite.

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Kendrick Lamar
(Photo: Pierre Suu/Getty Images)
by Cedric 'BIG CED' Thornton

April 30, 2025

Kendrick Lamar Becomes First Rapper To Gross $9 Million For A Show

The $9,124,989 total surpassed Eminem's $8,708,390 he pulled in 2019.

That runaway train disguised as Kendrick Lamar doesn’t look like it will be stopping anytime soon after reportedly setting a new tour record by taking in over $9 million when his tour with recording artist SZA opened. He became the first rapper to obtain that amount.

The “Not Like Us” rapper has broken a record set by Detroit rapper Eminem when the total from his concert in Melbourne in 2019 grossed $8.7 million. Lamar’s total for the show, which took place in Minneapolis, was $9.1 million.

According to Hypebeast, the opening show for the Grand National Tour took place at Bank Stadium. The two acts are scheduled to be on the road until Aug. 9, when the tour is scheduled to end in Stockholm.

The Touring Data social media account shows the numbers associated with the Minneapolis concert. The show grossed $9,124,989, with a sold-out show with 47,354 people filling the stadium. The average ticket fans paid was $192.70.

Meanwhile, Billboard reported that the duo’s No. 1 single, “Luther,” keeps that status for the 10th straight week. The single is the sixth top-charting single for the Compton rapper, while it’s SZA’s third. In another round of good news for Lamar and SZA, “Luther” is the first song by a solo man and woman, and no accompanying acts to rule the top of the charts for 10 weeks. This surpasses Diana Ross and Lionel Richie’s “Endless Love,” which was No. 1 for nine weeks in 1981.

If they can keep the momentum another week, they will match Puff Daddy and Faith Evans’ “I’ll Be Missing You,” which featured 112. That single was No. 1 for 11 weeks in 1997. If they can keep going, they will tie and/or dethrone Mariah Carey and Boyz II Men’s “One Sweet Day.” That song topped the Billboard chart for 16 weeks in 1995-96.

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NEW YORK AMSTERDAM NEWS, NEWSPAPER, museum
(Photo: ajay_suresh, CC0, via Wikimedia Commons)
by Jeroslyn JoVonn

April 30, 2025

Historic New York Amsterdam News Turning Newsroom Into Museum

The museum is expected to open by the end of 2027

With more than a century of history, the New York Amsterdam News is set to showcase its legacy through a new museum dedicated to the renowned Black newspaper.

Located in Harlem on Frederick Douglass Boulevard, steps from the iconic Apollo Theater, the New York Amsterdam News has been a cornerstone of Black journalism since 1909, making it one of the nation’s oldest Black-owned newspapers.

The museum, which is in its early planning stages, will feature exhibits and galleries and offer visitors an educational journey through the history of Black-centric reporting.

“Whether it has been to keep hospitals open, or fighting to get people in or out of power, or just giving the information to our community, our editorial stance has been strong,” New York Amsterdam News Publisher and Editor in Chief Elinor Tatum told CBS New York.

“I think the impact is almost immeasurable because we have been a constant beating drum,” she added. “When Michael Jackson died in 2009, there were lines around the corner to pick up our newspaper. They knew that we were going to be doing something meaningful.”

A walk through the newsroom already reveals a rich history, with vintage furniture, original fixtures, and classic space dividers dating back to the early 1900s—elements that make it a fitting and authentic setting for a museum.

”I hope they get a feeling of what it was like being inside of a newsroom back then. And get to know a little bit more about what it meant to be a Black reporter in New York through the ages,” Tatum said.

With archival clippings dating back to the 1940s, the newsrooms’ transition to a museum is sure to offer visitors a chance to relive history.

“These are metal plates that were used to produce photographs, and that’s what they would come out as, and we have thousands of these that date back to the 1930s,” Tatum said.

The newspaper, which continues to publish a print edition weekly with a circulation of about 20,000, aims to begin construction in August and open the museum by the end of 2027.

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