by Jeroslyn JoVonn

April 10, 2025

Kenan Thompson Sends A Message To The GERD Community: ‘You Don’t Have To Suffer Like That’

Kenan Thompson gets personal to raise awareness about GERD.

Kenan Thompson is opening up about his “personal journey” with GERD for the first time to help spotlight a condition impacting over 65 million Americans.

The longest-running cast member in SNL history appeared on BLACK ENTERPRISE’s The Culture Shift, where he opened up about his experience with gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD), as part of the GERD IS NO JOKE campaign. The initiative aims to raise awareness about GERD and encourage those experiencing frequent heartburn to speak with their healthcare providers.

Thompson knows the struggle firsthand, as his GERD symptoms began affecting his vocals during rehearsals and his sleeping pattern, ultimately pushing him to seek treatment. His journey to better health led him to Voquezna — an FDA-approved medication specifically designed to help manage both kinds of GERD.

“It’s a personal journey. I have GERD and I was able to like find a medicine that worked for me finally,” Thompson said. “I’ve been kind of like suffering to myself for years.”

“I understand what that might be like for others. So, I just wanted to get that word out to go see a doctor,” he added. “Don’t keep these things to yourselves. You don’t have to suffer like that.”

After finding heartburn relief with Voquezna for his Non-Erosive GERD, Thompson teamed up with Phathom Pharmaceuticals, Inc. (Nasdaq: PHAT)—a biopharmaceutical company dedicated to advancing treatments for gastrointestinal (GI) diseases — to spotlight the GERD IS NO JOKE campaign. Now that he’s found an effective solution, the Nickelodeon alum is urging others living with GERD to stop ignoring their symptoms or relying on ineffective over-the-counter remedies, and instead consult a healthcare provider to explore more effective treatment options.

“Once I actually talked to a professional and was able to get the proper medicine, I was able to achieve the healing that I needed,” Thompson said.

Thompson dives deeper into his personal journey with GERD at GERDIsNoJoke.com, where visitors can download a guide written from his unique perspective. The resource includes helpful tips and conversation starters to empower others to talk to their doctor about managing the condition.

by Jeroslyn JoVonn

April 10, 2025

NBC Washington Anchor Leon Harris Leaving To ‘Prioritize My Health’ After Concerning Broadcast

Leon Harris is leaving NBC Washington four months after he concerned viewers during a live broadcast.

NBC Washington anchor Leon Harris is leaving his post to prioritize his health four months after a live broadcast that raised concerns among viewers.

The longtime anchor for NBC affiliate WRC-TV in Washington, D.C., announced his departure in a statement the network released on April 8, following a four-month leave he says was used to focus on his health and family.

“Many of you have kindly asked about me over the past few months,” Harris said in a statement shared on Instagram. “As you know, I took time off to focus on my health and family.”

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A post shared by NBC4 Washington (@nbcwashington)

As he did during his leave of absence, Harris expressed that he plans to use his time away to focus on his health journey and family. His departure marks the end of a four-decade career in journalism, including eight years with NBC4.

”After 40+ years of nonstop work and the dramatic changes in the news and television industry, I’ve made the difficult decision to step away from my role at NBC4,” Harris shared in the statement. “I’m grateful to NBC4 for having me as part of their team for the last eight years.”

“This is the right time to prioritize my health and family,” he added. “A special thanks to my amazing colleagues, friends, and especially to our viewers who welcomed me into their homes. It’s been an honor. Thank you.”

The departure comes after a Nov. 28 broadcast in which Harris appeared to slur his words and stumble while reading from a teleprompter. A clip shared on X raised concern, with one user urging the station to check on him. Four days later, WRC addressed the incident, stating Harris had shown signs of illness during the newscast and would be “stepping away from the anchor desk to focus on health issues.”

The network added to Harris’ departure announcement with a personal statement thanking the media veteran for his work over the years and sending him warm wishes on his journey.

“We are grateful for Leon’s eight years of service to our newsroom,” the statement said. “We thank him for his commitment to our community, dedication to journalism, hard work, and friendship. He will be missed, and we wish him nothing but the best.”

Indiana Fever guard Caitlin Clark, Chicago Sky guard Chennedy Carter

by Jeroslyn JoVonn

April 10, 2025

Caitlin Clark Says Black Women Of The WNBA ‘Deserve All The Credit’

Caitlin Clark is celebrating the Black women who served as trailblazers within the WNBA.

Caitlin Clark is acknowledging her white “privilege” within the WNBA while also honoring the Black women who have helped shape the league into what it is today.

The Indiana Fever star spoke candidly during a deep dive with veteran late-night host David Letterman on his Netflix series My Next Guest Needs No Introduction. Clark highlighted the Black pioneers of the WNBA who inspired her as she grew up watching them.

“I definitely have privilege,” Clark said. “I’m obviously white, but I think I’m somebody who grew up a huge fan of this league. I grew up watching this league, going to games, supporting this league. So I know where this league comes from—a lot of Black women that grew up making this league what it is.”

From WNBA fan to player, Clark is now a leader in the league, championing the Black women who paved the way as trailblazers in the still-growing sport. It’s a “responsibility” she doesn’t take lightly.

“That’s kind of the shoulders that we stand on. So I think that was something I’m very aware of and something I’m very thankful for,” she said. “And they deserve all the credit, and the more we can give credit to them, the better. I’m very aware of that, and I know that, and I think there is responsibility in acknowledging that.”

Debates have surrounded Clark during her first year in the WNBA, with right-wing extremists fiercely defending her while criticizing her Black counterparts. At the same time, Black fans and critics argue that the fanfare surrounding Clark is a result of her white privilege.

In 2024, Clark was named Time‘s Athlete of the Year, sparking further discussions about whether she deserved the title and if her recognition overshadowed the achievements of Black women in the league. In her Time profile, Clark acknowledged her white privilege, just as she did in her recent interview with Letterman.

“I want to say I’ve earned every single thing, but as a white person, there is privilege,” Clark said. “A lot of those players in the league that have been really good have been Black players. This league has kind of been built on them.”

TED Talks, Brooklyn, comedy show, Black-Owned Comedy Venue, black music

by Kandiss Edwards

April 10, 2025

New PBS Documentary Traces The Roots Of Funk Music

'We Want The Funk!' is part of the PBS 'Independent Lens' series

At a time when Black contributions to American history and culture face keep getting erased, independent art stands as a vital act of resistance and remembrance. We Want the Funk! is a vibrant documentary that celebrates the revolutionary sound and cultural legacy of 1970s funk music.

Directed by Stanley Nelson and Nicole London, the film premiered on PBS’s series Independent Lens on April 8. It offers a dynamic exploration of funk’s evolution, tracing its roots from African, soul, and early jazz influences to its explosion in 1970s urban funk and beyond.

We Want The Funk! takes viewers deep into the groove with a star-studded lineup of musicians, producers, and cultural critics who help contextualize the genre’s lasting influence.

George Clinton, Questlove and more guide viewers through a pulsating exploration of funk’s golden age, honoring the brilliance of icons like James Brown, Sly and the Family Stone, and Parliament-Funkadelic.

https://twitter.com/VegasPBS/status/1909658296895639798

Through rare archival footage and poetic reflections from both fans and founders of the movement, the film doesn’t just document a sound—it celebrates a cultural awakening. Funk was, and remains, one of the highest expressions of Black artistry.

Funk was raw, unfiltered, and unapologetically Black. Where jazz was refined, funk was defiant. Its bold instrumentation—otherworldly synthesizers, thumping basslines, and call-and-response chants—channeled a post–civil rights generation ready to own its power. We Want the Funk! shows how the genre became more than music; it became the sound of individuality, protest, and liberation—and the precursor to hip-hop’s rhythmic backbone.

“Music, especially funk, fosters social connection, provides a mental break from worries, and helps build resilience, which allows us to cope with challenging situations,” said Lois Vossen, executive producer of Independent Lens. “We need the funk.”

The documentary is available for streaming on PBS until July 7, 2025. This film serves as a testament to the enduring impact of funk music, highlighting its role as a powerful expression of Black artistry and cultural identity.

by Sharelle B. McNair

April 10, 2025

Sneakerheads, Designers, And Collectors Brace Themselves For The Impact Of Trump’s Tariffs

The move is causing backlash from members of the sneaker community since the tariffs have raised the cost of importing goods from China and other countries.

NBC News reports that the $70 billion sneaker industry is being hit with heavy price changes due to President Donald Trump’s increase in tariffs on imports from China.

After China refused to bow down to Trump’s demands, the President increased the tariffs to 125%. “Based on the lack of respect that China has shown to the World’s Markets, I am hereby raising the Tariff charged to China by the United States of America to 125%, effective immediately,” Trump wrote on his Truth Social app. “At some point, hopefully in the near future, China will realize that the days of ripping off the U.S.A., and other Countries, is no longer sustainable or acceptable.”

The move is causing backlash from members of the sneaker community since the tariffs have raised the cost of importing goods from China and other countries. Devlin Carter, founder of luxury sneaker company SIA Collective, is upset about how tariffs, which he calls “unnecessary,” will force him to raise prices. Carter launched his business into a multimillion-dollar brand due to some of the fashionable, high-quality footwear manufactured mostly in the Asian country. “These are ridiculous tariffs that make no sense. Small businesses like mine have to pay these tariffs, and it’s not a small thing,” Carter said.

“It’s a lot. So there’s no way to see this as something that’s good — for anybody.”

Independent business owners aren’t the only ones feeling the pain of the increased tax. Retail giants like Nike, which produces products in Vietnam and Taiwan, will have to raise prices as the countries were hit with 32% and 46% tariffs. In a post on X, economist Peter Schiff explained how the popular brand will be forced to build more U.S.-based production plants as a result, which won’t go over well with customers. “Nike won’t build factories in the U.S. to make sneakers. That would add more cost than the 40% tariffs. Plus, they need to stay competitive selling to customers in other countries that don’t impose tariffs,” Schiff said.

“The result will be fewer sneakers sold in the U.S. at much higher prices.”

Nike won't build factories in the U.S. to make sneakers. That would add more cost than the 40% tariffs. Plus, they need to stay competitive selling to customers in other countries that don't impose tariffs. The result will be fewer sneakers sold in the U.S. at much higher prices.
— Peter Schiff (@PeterSchiff) April 3, 2025

Some sneaker executives are prepared to deal with price increases despite their customers’ opposition. According to the Boston Globe, the chief executive of running-shoe company Topo Tony Post says he relies on Chinese manufacturing to produce almost 90% of his products.

He worries about how the tariff threats will affect the cost of popular items like the Specters and Phantoms, possibly adding an additional $100 to the price tag. We haven’t said anything to our sales reps, even to our internal team, about raising prices, but of course, I know if these tariffs continue to go forward, I’m going to have to raise prices,” Post said.

Sneaker fans, known as sneakerheads, can collect impressive collections thanks to savings and the decent cost of sneakers. However, since Trump told a reporter he doesn’t “want anything to go down” when asked about Americans’ concerns, that may change. “That pair of $180 sneakers is going to cost me $250 now,” Atlanta-based fan Earl West said.

“So I have to be very selective on what I’m going to buy and when because I can’t afford to spend $250 on a pair of sneakers every other week — as a collector, that’s what we do. We’re not, we’re not buying to sell.”

Reselling is another element of the tariff threat, as West claims it will be a problem for customers. “Think about it: As a reseller, you have to buy a $150 shoe at a higher rate than it’s worth. And then you have to sell it even higher to make money,” the collector said.

“That’s going to be a problem.”

Amber Ruffin, Trump, White House Correspondents' Dinner

by Stacy Jackson

April 10, 2025

PEN America Taps Amber Ruffin As 2025 Gala Fundraiser Host

Ruffin's new gig with PEN America comes after the White House Correspondents Association excluded her from its annual dinner.

After the White House Correspondents Association axed Amber Ruffin from appearing at its annual dinner as a featured speaker, the comic was tapped to host PEN America’s gala fundraiser this May.

The association claimed that excluding Ruffin from the dinner was due to its decision to focus on journalistic achievements. However, according to The Associated Press, PEN America praised the writer for her talent. PEN co-interim CEO Clarisse Rosaz Shariyf said, “She is truly emblematic of the talented creators who we need on stages and in writers’ rooms during a time of unprecedented censorship in this country. We’re both delighted and honored to have her with us.”

Ruffin believes she was cut from the speaking engagement after she was told by event organizers of the White House Correspondents Association, “You need to be equal and be sure that you give it to both sides.” In response to the suggestion, the comic told Daily Beast in March, “I was like, ‘There’s no way that’s going to happen.’”

Ruffin, who has written for NBC’s Late Night with Seth Meyers, has been hit with criticism from White House staff members like deputy chief of staff Taylor Budowich, who called her a “second-rate comedian.” However, PEN America thinks otherwise. The organization called the CNN host’s satire and social commentary “brilliant” and described her talent as “exceptional.” According to PEN, its organization intersects literature and human rights. Its mission is to protect free expression in the U.S. and worldwide by supporting the freedom to write and celebrating the power of words to transform the world.

The fundraiser event expands on its mission as it will recognize trailblazers like Wesleyan University President Michael Roth. Roth, who has addressed the Trump administration’s attempts to cut research funding for Columbia University, Harvard University, and other schools, will be presented with the PEN/Benenson Courage Award. PEN America celebrates Roth for “his unwavering commitment to defending academic freedom, protecting protest rights, and resisting attempts to silence dissent in higher education.”

Ruffin will host PEN America’s gala fundraiser May 15.

by Kandiss Edwards

April 10, 2025

Nation’s First ‘Zoo School’ Breaks Ground On $26M Golden Campus

The Golden Charter Academy is investing millions into environmental education.

Golden Charter Academy broke ground on April 8 on a $26 million sustainable campus, marking a major step forward in its mission to merge environmental education with community empowerment.

The school, founded by former NFL safety and Fresno native Robert Golden, is the first transitional kindergarten through eighth grade Environmental Stewardship Zoo School in the United States, according to the academy. It partners closely with Fresno Chaffee Zoo and the city’s parks department to offer hands-on, conservation-focused learning experiences.

“Our goal is to grow conscious, sustainable scholars who lead with purpose,” Golden said. “This facility represents transformation — not just for education, but for a community, for a city. It will provide hope and serve as a hub for education, healing, and positive change for people and for the planet.”

The new campus will feature solar-powered classrooms, water-efficient landscaping, and interactive outdoor learning spaces, aligning with the school’s eco-conscious mission. Construction is expected to be completed in fall 2026.

https://twitter.com/BlueHubCapital/status/1909637714686652467

Robert Golden, who played for the Pittsburgh Steelers and Arizona Cardinals before retiring from the NFL in 2019, attributes his passion for environmental justice and education to his upbringing in South Fresno — a region significantly affected by poor air quality and limited access to green spaces.

Fresno consistently ranks among the most polluted cities in the United States. According to the American Lung Association’s “State of the Air” 2024 report, nearly 44 million people live in counties that received failing grades for ozone and particle pollution.

Additionally, residents in neighborhoods of color in Fresno have access to 43% less nearby park space compared to those in white neighborhoods, highlighting disparities in green space availability. These environmental challenges have fueled Golden’s commitment to fostering change through education and advocacy.

To support its mission, Golden Charter Academy will host its second annual Meet the Moment Gala, a fundraiser aimed at improving environmental conditions in Fresno’s underserved communities. The event will take place April 26, at the Regency Event Center.

Perfect, email, emailing, correspondence, write, IFA

by Nancy E Williams

April 10, 2025

The International Franchise Association’s Franchise Ascension Initiative Is Accepting 2025 Applications

For many African American business owners, the entrepreneurship journey is often a long, winding road with numerous challenges and obstacles. Access to education, mentorship, and business capital can be critical to their business’s success. To provide many of these tools, the International Franchise Association (IFA) created the Franchise Ascension Initiative (FAI). Now in its second year, the six-month accelerator program aims to prepare qualified individuals from underrepresented groups, U.S. veterans, and economically disadvantaged communities with the education, mentorship, resources, and support to successfully launch a career in franchise ownership. The FAI is an immersive hybrid learning program with live, virtual instructor-led classes and self-paced online learning. It also provides individual and group mentorship sessions, access to expert speakers, experiential assignments, case studies, and research opportunities. The program covers Franchising Fundamentals, Franchise Law, Selecting the Right Brand, Financing Your Business, Marketing & Sales, Building Successful Teams, and much more.

The FAI was spearheaded by Omar Simmons, president of Exaltare Capital Management, and his wife, Raynya, in partnership with the IFA. The Simmonses were inspired to launch the FAI as a springboard to help underrepresented entrepreneurs interested in franchising. Last year, the IFA received 70 completed applications from prospective franchisees nationwide. Seventeen finalists were chosen after an extensive IFA screening and interview committee review. Chandler Hayden, an inaugural cohort member, is the Franchise Development Coordinator at Taco John’s International. Hayden describes her experience in FAI as a dream come true. “This program opened the doors to world-class education and endless resources. FAI gave us not only the tools but also offered hope and the tangible opportunity to succeed as franchise owners.”

For minorities, who often lack the same access to networks and capital as others, this program is a game-changer,” said Calvin Parsons, Owner & CEO of Kidokinetics RVA, also part of the inaugural cohort, who was surprised to learn how tight-knit the franchise community is. “It’s like one big family, where collaboration is key. It’s refreshing to see competing brands working together to drive progress and make a positive impact on small businesses, their owners, employees, and the communities they serve,” shared Parsons.

“Franchising offers a remarkable path to entrepreneurship, with over 3,000 brands in the U.S. spanning virtually every industry. It’s not just about owner-operators in quick service restaurants; there are also opportunities for investors and small business owners to participate in the franchising space in diverse ways.” Finally, Michael Gatewood, who began his career on Wall Street and is now a managing principal at Westview Management Group and a multi-unit franchisee, said of the FAI program: “I would highly recommend the FAI program. You will be equipped with the tools needed to launch your endeavors, be surrounded by like-minded individuals who want to help you succeed and grow as a person and professional. This is an amazing opportunity.”

Applications are being accepted for the 2025 cohort, which begins in August 2025 and ends in February 2026. Participants will be reimbursed for expenses incurred to attend at least two signature IFA conferences. The application deadline is May 16, 2025, and includes a brief essay and video component along with the written application. Each participant is assigned an FAI mentor –- a franchise professional who will volunteer to coach them through the program. There is no cost associated with the application or the program; however, its heavy content workload should be considered before applying.

To learn more about the FAI and how to apply, visit FRANCHISE.ORG/ASCENSION.

by Jeroslyn JoVonn

April 9, 2025

Charles Barkley Gets Roasted While Playing Pop The Balloon In San Antonio

Charles Barkley was hilariously roasted by a line of women while playing "Pop The Balloon."

Charles Barkley became the target of a roasting session while playing a round of Pop The Balloon in San Antonio, Texas, where his comments about women’s appearances have been offending locals.

Known for his legendary smack talk, Barkley struggled to clap back at a line of women who all popped their balloons. Barkley’s NBA on TNT co-host Kenny Smith ushered him along for their play at the popular YouTube dating show turned Netflix series Pop the Balloon or Find Love.

Pop the Balloon: Chuck 🤝 The Women of San Antonio

The women were RUTHLESS 😭 pic.twitter.com/7Z3ZdFH2MO
— NBA on TNT (@NBAonTNT) April 8, 2025

The NBA alum was destroyed by ladies who cracked jokes about his weight (from inhaling too many churros), his lack of muscles, the zero NBA championships he has under his belt, and his golf swing. The last lady even accused him of stealing the spotlight, to which Smith agreed.

“Wow. That was rude!” Barkley shouted after many of the women popped their balloons upon his entry. The last two women followed suit, popping their balloons after the former Phoenix Suns star introduced himself.

“I just like my men with more muscle. Do you think Shaq is available,” one woman said of her reason for popping her balloon.

“Shaq ain’t got no muscles one,” Barkley shot back. “Shaq just big.”

He expressed gratitude for not being “sensitive” after one woman explained why she popped her balloon due to Barkley having no championship rings. “I can’t expect you to give me a ring if you don’t have one,” she quipped.

While he took the jab about his rings, Barkley suffered a “low blow” by the woman who joked about his golf swing. “I’m sensitive about my golf swing,” he said in response.

One younger woman complimented Barkley on his sense of humor but candidly admitted that she wasn’t attracted to him.

“When you get older, you’re going to be looking for a personality, a bank account, things like that,” he said in response.

The humorous segment was just a preview of what fans can look forward to as NBA on TNT transitions its four co-hosts — Barkley, Smith, Shaquille O’Neal, and Ernie Johnson — to ESPN this fall.

Meghan Markle, Archewell Foundation, Prince Harry

by Stacy Jackson

April 9, 2025

Haters Are No Match For Meghan Markle Fans: ‘As Ever’ Debut Collection Sells Out In 1 Hour

As Ever fans grabbed every product in the collection within one hour, including a $28 limited-edition honey, which sold out in five minutes.

Meghan Markle’s naysayers are eating their words after her first As Ever collection officially launched on April 9, and products were sold out within an hour.

The product line was hit with heavy criticism when the Duchess of Sussex previously released details of her business endeavor. According to Business Insider, critics doubted the brand’s vision, assumed products would be overpriced, and criticized a brand name swap from American Riviera Orchard to As Ever, which resulted from a trademark issue. The Hollywood Reporter noted that wandering eyes caught wind of an already trademarked clothing store named “As Ever,” which operates in New York and New Jersey. Critics also claimed the Duchess had a lack of attention to detail and cited a spelling error in an email link, “wonky” font choices, and capitalization, Daily Mail mentioned.

Despite the negative feedback, Markle’s fans showed up and showed out as the brand released its debut collection. Customers grabbed everything from the selection of items, which were priced between $12 to $15. The now-sold-out lineup of items included a raspberry spread, flower sprinkles, herbal teas, crepe, and cookie mix. A limited-edition honey, priced at $28, reportedly sold out within five minutes. “What began with a small pot of fresh fruit preserves, bubbling away in my home kitchen, has inspired this curated collection to bring surprise and delight to your every day,” reads Markle’s message to As Ever buyers.

The former actress has built her consumer base over the past ten years, which consists of “OG” fans before Prince Harry, supporters of her 2014 “The Tig” blog, and fans who have followed her throughout the ups and downs of her royal life. Ahead of the As Ever launch, Markle shared a special moment with her “OG Tig girls” on Instagram. She captioned the slideshow with a message of gratitude for the group of women as she counted down the hours before the big debut.

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Markle gave a heads-up to As Ever fans about future purchases, and they might want to keep the notifications turned on or sign up for the mailing list, as the brand will feature limited quantities for each seasonal drop.