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  • Remembering Malcolm‑Jamal Warner: A Gentle Soul Gone Too Soon

    It’s with heavy hearts that we remember Malcolm‑Jamal Warner, the beloved actor who touched so many souls. He passed away on July 20, 2025, at the age of 54, after drowning during a family vacation in Costa Rica. A rip current near Playa Cocles swept him out to sea; brave bystanders and the Red Cross tried tirelessly to save him, but tragically, he could not be revived.

    A Star from Childhood

    Born August 18, 1970, in Jersey City, New Jersey, Malcolm-Jamal starred as Theo Huxtable on The Cosby Show from 1984 to 1992. He earned an Emmy nomination in 1986 for his warm and authentic portrayal of the Huxtable family’s son. To many, Theo was like the little brother we all admired—funny, smart, and kind.

    A Versatile Talent

    Malcolm‑Jamal didn’t stop at sitcom stardom. Over a four-decade career, he played memorable roles in shows like Malcolm & Eddie, Reed Between the Lines, The Fresh Prince of Bel‑Air, Sons of Anarchy, American Crime Story, Suits, and The Resident. He also hosted the Not All Hood podcast, tackling important conversations about mental health in Black communities.

    Music, Poetry & Grammy Glory

    But Warner was more than an actor. He was a skilled poet and musician. In 2015, he won a Grammy for Best Traditional R&B Performance with “Jesus Children of America”—a testament to his soulful artistry. He later received a Grammy nomination in 2023 for spoken-word poetry, and his album Hiding In Plain View showcased his thoughtful voice.

    Malcolm Jamal Warner’s tribute video to pioneers in Black History

    Loved by Colleagues & Fans

    The outpouring of love since his passing has been immense. His Resident and Cosby Show co-stars, along with stars like Tracee Ellis Ross, Jennifer Hudson, Morris Chestnut, and Kevin Hart, have honored him as talented, warm, generous, and deeply caring.

    In the words of Morris Chestnut:

    “He brought so much depth, warmth, and wisdom to every scene … One of the nicest in the business.” People.com

    A Human Beyond the Spotlight

    Though he cherished privacy, Malcolm‑Jamal was a devoted husband and father, leaving behind his beloved wife and daughter. He carried himself with humility—former friend Kevin Powell noted how “You would have never known he was a major child star… he was never someone who was into the celebrity of it” (CBS News).

    His Legacy Lives On

    Malcolm‑Jamal Warner’s legacy is rich and varied: a child star who grew into a well-rounded artist, a confident voice in difficult conversations, and a soul who radiated kindness everywhere he went. From being the archetype of “America’s son” to exploring his own creative paths in music, poetry, and advocacy, he will forever be remembered—and deeply missed.

    Malcolm-Jamal Warner reflected on his legacy in final interview on Melyssa Ford’s ‘Hot & Bothered’ podcast before his untimely death.

    May we honor him by celebrating joy, creativity, empathy—and loving fiercely.
    Rest in peace, Malcolm‑Jamal. Your journey inspired us all.

  • Khadijah’s Journey: Betrayal, Awareness, and Resilience

    A story of betrayal, resilience, and advocacy emerges in a recent video featuring Khadijah, also known as KD. She bravely shares her journey of being diagnosed with HIV, not for sympathy, but to foster healing, awareness, and to champion the cause of others.

    A Devastating Betrayal and a Life-Changing Diagnosis

    Khadijah’s story is one of profound betrayal. She recounts how a friend introduced her to a man without disclosing his HIV-positive status. An act of trust turned into a life-altering event, as she engaged in unprotected sex, oblivious to the risk. The following months were filled with anxiety and confusing symptoms; swollen lymph nodes, fever, and night sweats led her to research her symptoms, which pointed towards HIV. While an initial test in January was non-reactive, a confirmatory test in May revealed a staggering viral load of 726,000.

    The Emotional Aftermath and the Power of Support

    The diagnosis was a heavy blow, leaving Khadijah feeling like a failure and fearing judgment. However, her family’s unwavering support became her anchor in this turbulent time. She candidly shares the emotional rollercoaster of anger, denial, and the trauma of betrayal that accompanied her diagnosis. Her story is a poignant reminder of the mental and emotional toll that HIV can take on an individual.

    From Personal Struggle to Public Advocacy

    Khadijah is determined to turn her personal struggle into a platform for advocacy. Her mission is to dismantle the stigma surrounding HIV, shed light on how betrayal and silence can have devastating consequences, and empower others to know their rights and protect their health. She is on a path to healing, not just for herself, but for her community. Currently on medication, her viral load has seen a significant decrease, a testament to her resilience and commitment to her health. Despite the challenges, she remains steadfast in her dream of becoming a nurse and living a life full of purpose.

    A Journey to Inspire Action, Especially in Texas

    Khadijah plans to document her journey through vlogs, sharing her workouts, meal preps, and daily life to showcase her progress and continue her advocacy. The words of encouragement from the host of the platform, and other panelists commend her courage, highlighting that her story is a testament to the power of the human spirit to overcome adversity.

    Her story is more than just a personal account; it is a vital public health message, especially right here in Texas. According to the Texas Department of State Health Services, our state consistently ranks among the highest in the nation for new HIV diagnoses, with thousands of new cases each year. Metropolitan areas like Houston are at the epicenter of this ongoing crisis. Along with the TXDHS, the CDC (Centers for Disease Control & Prevention) says HIV (human immunodeficiency virus) attacks the immune system and, if untreated, can progress to AIDS (acquired immunodeficiency syndrome). This reality makes Khadijah’s mission to promote awareness and dismantle stigma not just important, but urgent for our communities.

    She was very brave telling her story on her friend’s platform; turning her message into meaningful action. I encourage everyone to commit to regular testing, engage in open and honest conversations about sexual health, and support the local organizations on the front lines of HIV education and care. By embracing her call to action, we can help build a future rooted in health, compassion, and hope.

  • Student Loan Forgiveness Program ‘Quietly Paused’

    If you’ve been counting on student loan forgiveness through the Income-Based Repayment (IBR) plan, there’s something big you need to know:

    As a federal student loan borrower for college and graduate school, this affects me too! And no, I or we don’t want to hear the whole “you borrowed, you should pay them back” a** line.

    Let’s break it down in simple terms:

    What Is the IBR Student Loan Forgiveness Program?

    The IBR program is a type of repayment plan that allows you to make smaller monthly payments based on how much money you make.
    If you make those payments for 20 or 25 years, the rest of your loan is supposed to be forgiven—meaning you don’t have to pay it back.

    It was one of the few ways people with high loan balances and modest incomes could get relief over time.

    So What Happened?

    The Department of Education quietly paused or shut down the forgiveness part of this program for many borrowers.

    • Borrowers who were expecting full forgiveness after 20-25 years may now be told their time doesn’t count the way they thought it did.
    • The timeline has become unclear, and some payments may no longer count toward forgiveness.
    • There’s been no big announcement—just subtle updates in the fine print, policy changes, or new loan servicer guidelines.

    This means many people who’ve been paying for decades might not get their loans forgiven at all.

    Why Is This a Big Deal?

    Because millions of borrowers are affected and most don’t even realize it yet.

    Here’s why it matters:

    • You could end up paying more, for longer.
    • Forgiveness may be pushed back or denied altogether.
    • If you’re planning your finances around your loan being gone in a few years, this could throw everything off—retirement, buying a house, starting a business, or just getting out of debt.

    Who Does This Hurt the Most?

    • Low- to middle-income borrowers who’ve been in repayment for years
    • People in public service jobs who aren’t part of PSLF
    • Borrowers who have been faithfully making payments under IBR thinking they were building toward freedom

    Many of these borrowers are older—some near retirement—still carrying student loan debt they hoped would be gone.

    What Can You Do Now?

    1. Log into your loan servicer account.
      See what repayment plan you’re in and how many qualifying payments they’ve counted.
    2. Call and ask questions.
      Don’t assume anything. Ask them if you’re still on track for forgiveness and how they’re counting your payments.
    3. Look into other programs.
      There are new repayment plans like SAVE (Saving on a Valuable Education) that may offer faster forgiveness for some borrowers.
    4. Document everything.
      Keep records of your payment history and what your servicer tells you.
    5. Speak up.
      Contact your local lawmakers or the Department of Education and vent to them about how this hurts borrowers.

    Final Thoughts

    The quiet pause of the IBR forgiveness program is a big deal that deserves loud attention.
    If you’ve been relying on this path, now’s the time to double-check your plan and look for other options.

    The student loan system is confusing on purpose—but staying informed helps you stay in control.
    Don’t wait until it’s too late to find out you’ve been left behind.

  • Man Caught Trying to Dig Up Body at Kansas City Cemetery

    In Kansas City, Missouri, a chilling and unsettling incident unfolded on July 1, 2025. Someone tried to dig up the grave of Delshon L. Dupriest, a father of nine who was buried nearly 27 years ago. What was meant to be a final resting place has become an active crime scene.

    🕵️ The Scene at Forest Hill Cemetery

    Police were called to Forest Hill Cemetery, located at Gregory and Troost Avenue, after reports of a disturbed grave. Upon arrival, they discovered a broken gate—possibly caused by a vehicle used to ram into the cemetery. By mid-afternoon, investigators were inspecting the scene, collecting evidence, and speaking with witnesses.

    Family’s Pain and Questions

    Dupriest’s family was alerted and rushed to the cemetery. His mother, Jamesetta Blandhood, described the sight as though “somebody had just dug it up … looked like they had put dynamite and just blew it open”. Dupriest, killed back in 1998, left behind nine children and a community of friends. His mother’s grief quickly shifted to confusion and anger: “After 27 years, who would do this? Who hates him so badly that they would just tear up his grave like that?”. The damage appears severe—his body was buried in a cement vault, which has been shattered into pieces. The victim’s mom added: “What did he have in there that you wanted so bad? … I thought this would be a safe place. So, mothers and fathers, watch out for your kids, the dead ones too.”

    Investigation Underway

    The Kansas City Police Department has launched a property-crime investigation and remains at the cemetery pursuing leads. Cemetery owners have cooperated with the investigation and confirmed no intentional collusion .

    Authorities are focusing on several key elements, even though it’s early in the process. They are investigating the damaged gate, possibly made by a vehicle. They are also examining the shattered cement vault. Additionally, they are considering any potential motives, like whether someone sought valuables or acted out of malice.

    No suspects have yet been named or taken into custody.

    What Comes Next

    The grieving family is waiting for clarity as investigators continue to sift through evidence. Once the scene is processed, and the suspect or suspects are identified, they will likely refer the case to prosecutors. This will happen before criminal charges are filed.

    Kansas City man’s alleged enemies blew his grave up with dynamite 27 years after he passed away to steal his jewelry.

  • ICE Arrests MS-13 Leader in Nebraska, Disrupts Gang Operations

    In a surprising operation that underscores the sprawling reach of transnational gangs, U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) captured an alleged high-ranking MS-13 leader. This occurred right in the middle of Nebraska.

    The man arrested is José Alejandro Melgar-Rivas. Federal authorities identified him as a significant figure within the notoriously violent MS-13 gang. His reported nickname, “Peligroso” (Spanish for “The Dangerous One”), hints at his alleged reputation. Authorities paint a grim picture. Melgar-Rivas isn’t just suspected of local crimes. ICE alleges he was a key coordinator, directing gang activities and criminal operations across multiple states. This potentially includes orchestrating violence, drug trafficking, and other serious offenses fundamental to MS-13’s brutal business model. Adding another layer, ICE revealed Melgar-Rivas is a repeat immigration violator. He had previously been deported from the United States. His presence back in the country, allegedly leading criminal activities, underscores persistent challenges with illegal re-entry and border security.

    MS-13 kingpin captured by ICE in Nebraska.

    This wasn’t a solo effort. The arrest was the result of a major collaborative operation. This involved ICE, Homeland Security Investigations, the Nebraska Department of Correctional Services, and the Nebraska State Patrol.

    This arrest matters for many reason. Targeting the leadership of these gangs’ alleged leaders disrupts the gang’s command structure. It weakens their ability to operate effectively. It also affects their efficiency. This arrest shows that MS-13 isn’t confined to border states or major cities. They operate nationwide and impact heartland communities. This arrest also underlines ongoing issues with illegal re-entry. Agencies like ICE work hard to track down dangerous individuals who have circumvented immigration laws. The successful operation showcases the importance of federal, state, and local agencies working together to combat complex criminal networks.

    Melgar-Rivas is now in ICE custody. He may face federal criminal prosecution for his alleged gang activities. He will almost certainly face immigration removal proceedings once again. His arrest is a huge win for law enforcement. It serves as a big warning that international criminal organizations like MS-13 pose a threat, even in America’s heartland.

    MS-13 is often linked to coastal urban centers and Central America. However, Melgar-Rivas was tracked down and apprehended in Grand Island, Nebraska. This arrest highlights how these criminal networks can embed themselves far beyond traditional hotspots, operating in communities across the U.S.

  • July 2025 Funding Opportunities and Business Resources

    Check out these business funding opportunities and resources for small business owners and entrepreneurs like yourself!

    Name of Grant/OpportunityAbout the Grant/OpportunityAward Amount of Grant/OpportunityMore Information/
    Where to Apply
    American Express Leadership AcademyThe Academy is for people in the non-profit sector who are intentionally striving to be better equipped to respond adaptively to challenges, and to keep going in the face of adversity.N/Ahttps://commonpurpose.org/american-express-leadership-academy
    Awesome FoundationFoundation distributes $1,000 grants, no strings attached, to projects and their creators. At each fully autonomous chapter, the money is pooled together from the coffers of ten or so self-organizing “micro-trustees”. Awarded monthly$1,000https://www.awesomefoundation.org/en
    AWS Generative AI Accelerator ProgramA global 8-week hybrid program supporting generative and agentic AI startups to prove what’s possible.  Funding up to $1MM in AWS credits.N/Ahttps://aws.amazon.com/startups/programs/generative-ai
    Etsy Disaster Relief FundSellers will be eligible for a grant if they experienced a federally declared natural disaster within the past year, have been an active seller on Etsy for at least one year, and their Etsy account is in good standing. Grants for $2,500$2,500https://advocacy.etsy.com/etsy-emergency-relief-fund-at-cerf/
    Savvy FellowshipSavvy is a 12-week virtual Fellowship program for young professionals seeking to be part of the new generation of impact entrepreneurs. Applicants should be 40 or youngerN/Ahttps://savvyfellows.com/team/
    Streets Global AwardAre you a mission-driven business, non-profit, or NGO that is making a difference in the world through hospitality or tourism? The STREETS Global Awards offers you a platform to be recognized for your social impact, innovation, and dedication to sustainability.
    If your organization is in the first 1–5 years of operation and is focused on creating positive change, this award is for you. Funding of $10,000    		$10,000https://www.streetsinternational.org/global-awards
    Techstars AcceleratorsTechstars accelerators have one goal: to help entrepreneurs succeed. During each three-month program, they surround companies (companies should be based in North American time zones) with the best mentors and an unrivaled network of corporate partners, investors, and alumni. Companies can receive $20K for 6% of company. Various locations and due datesN/Ahttps://www.techstars.com/accelerators/
    Amazon’s Black Business AcceleratorDedicated to helping build sustainable equity and growth for Black entrepreneurs by enabling their success as sellers. Grow your business with access to financial support, strategic business guidance and mentorship, and marketing and promotional support.N/Ahttps://sell.amazon.com/programs/black-business-accelerator
    Bank of America’s Business Education Center for EntrepreneursVisit Bank of America’s Small Business Education site for access to free webinars on Accessing Capital, Building Business Credit and moreN/Ahttps://go.bofa.com/BusinessEducationCenter
    Clever Girl FinanceClever Girl Finance is one of the largest personal finance media/education platforms for women in the U.S. and has consistently been voted one of the best finance websites for women by the Plutus Awards celebrating excellence in financial media.
    The site offers free resources including personal finance courses, one-on-one mentor calls, articles, audio, and video content, an incredibly supportive community, and more.    		N/Ahttps://www.clevergirlfinance.com/#
    digitalundivided Do You FellowshipThe Do You Fellowship is a specialized, comprehensive, and interactive seven-week program designed to empower a cohort of 10 entrepreneurs with the essential skills, knowledge, and mentorship needed to grow and scale their businesses.
    The program offers a flexible yet robust educational environment tailored to address the unique challenges faced by founders in entrepreneurship. Business should be tech-based or innovatively incorporate technology in the business model, products, or services. Should be post-revenue stage with a minimum annual revenue of $250,000 or have raised at least $150,000 in funding. Apply by 7/20/2025    		N/Ahttps://digitalundivided.com/fellowship
    EmpowerHer Grant – Boundless Futures FoundationThe Boundless Futures Foundation awards grants to U.S.-based female entrepreneurs and nonprofits that support female entrepreneurship. The EmpowHer Grant offers entrepreneurs up to $25,000, with funds provided as reimbursements for business expenses upon proof of payment. EmpowHer Grant applications are accepted on a rolling basisup to $25,000https://boundlessfutures.org/our-impact
    Enthuse Foundation Catalyst Grant for Women-Owned Food & Beverage BrandsEnthuse Foundation Catalyst Grant for Women-Owned Food & Beverage Brands – Must be a Women-founded food or beverage business. In addition to receiving $40,000, the winner will gain direct access to expert mentorship from Spearhead Global’s award-winning team.
    The Capital + Catalyst Grant reflects a shared mission between Spearhead Global and the Enthuse Foundation to fuel innovation and elevate women entrepreneurs in an industry where capital, packaging expertise, and access to mentorship are critical to success. Funding up to $40,000. Apply by 7/28/2025    		up to $40,000https://www.enthusefoundation.org/capitalandcatalyst
    FedEx E-Commerce Learning LabMust own at least 51% of a U.S.-based small business – Business must have been operating for at least 6 months – You must sell a packaged, shelf-stable product that is legal and not part of prohibited industries.  Funding up to $5,000. Apply by 7/3/2025up to $5,000https://aofund.org/program/fedex
    First Interstate BancSystem Foundation grantsFirst Interstate Bank and the First Interstate BancSystem Foundation provide support in communities served by First Interstate Bank in Arizona, Colorado, Idaho, Iowa, Kansas, Minnesota, Missouri, Montana, North Dakota, Nebraska, Oregon, South Dakota, Washington, and Wyoming.
    Must be a nonprofit to apply. The majority of the Foundation’s grants are focused on alleviating poverty by assisting low- and moderate-income individuals and communities. Funding minimum of $2500    		 min. of $2500https://www.firstinterstatebank.com/company/commitment/grants.php
    Foot Locker Foundation Community Empowerment ProgramThe Foot Locker Foundation Community Empowerment Program offers two types of grants. The first type includes grants to support current youth programming. These can also create new programming or extend existing programming.
    These grants will range from $25,000 to $75,000 over one year – and Grants to support capital improvement projects that enhance the impact of youth programming. These grants will range from $25,000 to $100,000 over one year.
    This funding opportunity is open to 501c3 nonprofit organizations that operate in low-to-moderate income communities within the following 14 cities: Atlanta, GA; Baltimore, MD; Chicago, IL; Dallas, TX; Detroit, MI; Houston, TX; Los Angeles, CA; New York City, NY; Newark, NJ; Oakland, CA; Philadelphia, PA; San Francisco, CA; Tampa, FL; and Washington, DC.    		$25,000 to $100,000 over one yearhttps://www.lisc.org/our-initiatives/sports-recreation/foot-locker-foundation-community-empowerment-program/
    Home Depot Foundation’s Veteran Housing Grants programThe Home Depot Foundation’s Veteran Housing Grants program awards grants to nonprofit organizations for the new construction or rehabilitation of multifamily, permanent supportive housing for veterans throughout the United States, including Puerto Rico. The grants fund physical construction costs, and must comprise less than 50% of the total development cost of the project. While rural areas will be considered, priority will be given to large cities with populations of over 300,000 people. Specifically, there is a focus on projects in the following cities: Los Angeles and San Diego, CA; Denver, CO; Atlanta, GA; Tampa, FL; Chicago, IL; Detroit, MI; New York, NY; Houston, TX; and Seattle, WAup to $500,000 https://corporate.homedepot.com/page/veteran-housing-grants
    KFC Foundation’s Kentucky Wishes GrantThe KFC Foundation’s Kentucky Wishes program provides grants to support capacity-building projects that expand access to food and shelter in local communities. Examples of eligible projects include remodeling food pantries, creating community gardens, upgrading animal shelters, and repairing or renovating buildings. Eligible applicants must be local nonprofit organizations, or local chapters/affiliates of larger nonprofits, that directly serve their communities.up to $10,000https://kfcfoundation.org/wishes/
    Military Entrepreneur ChallengeThe Military Entrepreneur Challenge is a nationwide grant program that gives veteran, military spouse, and Gold Star Family entrepreneurs the opportunity to network, learn, and compete for capital to grow their small businessN/Ahttps://secondservicefoundation.org/mec/
    Service2CEO programService2CEO Is an entrepreneurship program for military-connected entrepreneurs.
    The program provides resources, networks of people committed to your success, and an actionable curriculum that accelerates your business to the next stage of development.    		N/Ahttps://www.therosienetwork.org/service2ceo-program
    Small Certified Supplier Innovative Finance ProgramTargeted to small certified suppliers in California, Georgia, Kansas, Illinois, Michigan, Minnesota, New York, North Carolina, Ohio, Tennessee, Texas and Washington, the Small Certified Supplier Innovative Finance Program is designed to engage diverse suppliers in educational funding readiness training and funder matching to support capacity building. Funding for $5,000 $5,000https://foundersfirstcapitalpartners.com/small-certified-supplier-innovative-finance-program/
    Warrior Rising GrantWarrior Rising strives to accept and assist veterans at any point in the process of starting their own business, whether it is only a concept or if they have actual operations$20,000https://www.warriorrising.org/apply/

  • Free Data Analyst Training: Launch Your Career with IBM SkillsBuild

    Ever feel like the tech world is zooming past you? What if you could grab onto a high-growth career—no degree, no debt, and no experience needed? That’s exactly what IBM SkillsBuild offers with its free Data Analyst training program. Let’s break down how this works and why it might be your ticket to a brighter future.

    Why Data Analysis?

    Data isn’t just numbers—it’s the secret sauce businesses use to make decisions. From predicting trends to improving products, companies rely on data experts to guide them. Jobs like Data Analyst, Business Intelligence Specialist, or Data Scientist are booming:

    • 💥 35% growth expected in the U.S. from 2021–2031 
    • 🌎 137,630+ openings in India by 2025 
      And guess what? You don’t need a college degree to jump in.

    What is IBM SkillsBuild?

    IBM SkillsBuild is a 100% free online platform that trains adults for tech careers. Backed by IBM—a global tech leader—it focuses on skills over degrees. In fact, 20% of IBM’s new hires don’t have a four-year degree. The Data Analyst path includes courses, hands-on projects, and industry-recognized credentials to make you job-ready.

    Your Step-by-Step Learning Journey

    1. Awareness: Start with the basics of data science—no prior knowledge needed.
    2. Comprehension: Use tools like Python to clean, analyze, and visualize data.
    3. Application: Solve real problems (e.g., analyzing open datasets)
    4. Certificate: Earn the IBM Data Analytics Certificate (60+ hours of training) 

    Key skills you’ll learn:

    • Cleaning messy data sets.
    • Building machine learning models.
    • Creating dashboards and reports.

    Why This Program Stands Out

    ✅ Free Digital Credentials: Earn badges like Data Fundamentals or Analyze Open Data Sets with Python to prove your skills to employers. Share them on LinkedIn or resumes.
    ✅ Project-Based Learning: Practice with real datasets—no theory-only fluff.
    ✅ Job-Ready Focus: Courses align with entry-level roles (e.g., Operations Analyst, Data Analytics Consultant) 

    💡 Fun Fact: You’ll even use IBM Watson Studio (a professional data tool) during training!

    Who Is This For?

    • Career changers with no tech background.
    • Job seekers needing in-demand skills fast.
    • Anyone intimidated by complex tech jargon (they explain everything simply!).

    Overcoming Common Fears

    • ❌ “I can’t afford it”: $0 cost—including credentials 
    • ❌ “I’m not tech-savvy”: Start with Data Fundamentals (7 hours) 
    • ❌ “Will employers care?”: IBM credentials are trusted worldwide 

    How to Get Started

    1. Sign Up: Visit skillsbuild.org.
    2. Pick Your Path: Select “Data Analyst” under Explore Learning.
    3. Learn & Earn: Finish courses, collect badges, and apply for jobs!

    ⏰ Time Commitment: Self-paced! Spend 5–10 hours/week, and finish in 3–6 months.

    Final Thoughts

    The data revolution isn’t coming—it’s here. With IBM SkillsBuild, you’re not just watching from the sidelines. You’re building skills that open doors to 35% faster-growing careers, financial stability, and work you’ll love. No risk, all reward.

    Ready to transform your future?
    👉 Click here to start your free Data Analyst training.

    FAQs

    • Cost? Free forever 
    • Degree needed? None 
    • Support? Mentors and community forums available 

  • Explore Top Free Courses on Coursera Today

    Y’all know I am all about self-improvement and development. I wanted to give my readers some information about Coursera and the FREE courses they offer that could help you advance in your current field or gain foundational knowledge towards a new skill.

    Free courses help you learn new skills and explore interesting topics without any financial commitment. They provide access to many resources, allowing you to study at your own pace and encouraging self-improvement. Whether you want to advance your career, change jobs, or just learn something new, free courses give you valuable knowledge and experience. Their flexibility makes it easier to manage your current responsibilities while you learn, enhancing both your personal and professional life.

    Coursera offers the following free courses:

    • Data Science – using powerful tools and methods to find meaningful patterns and make sense of information from data
      • Amazon Web Services: Fundamentals of Machine Learning and Artificial Intelligence
      • Amazon Web Services: Fundamentals of Analytics on AWS
      • Amazon Web Services: Exploring Artificial Intelligence Use Cases and Applications
      • Amazon Web Services: Developing Generative AI Solutions
      • Amazon Web Services: Responsible AI Practices
      • Amazon Web Services: Essentials of Prompt Engineering
    • Business – an organization or activity that provides goods or services to make a profit.
      • Goldman Sachs: Fundamentals of Business Finance, with Goldman Sachs 10,000 Women
      • Goldman Sachs: Fundamentals of Sales and Marketing, with Goldman Sachs 10,000 Women
      • Goldman Sachs: Digital Marketing Strategy with Goldman Sachs 10,000 Women
      • Goldman Sachs: Grow Your Business with Goldman Sachs 10,000 Women
      • Goldman Sachs: Fundamentals of Negotiation, with Goldman Sachs 10,000 Women
      • Amazon Web Services: Introduction to Generative AI – Art of the Possible
    • Computer Science – study of how computers work, how to design and build them, and how to create instructions (software) for them to solve problems
      • Princeton University: Computer Science – Programming with a Purpose
      • Princeton University: Algorithms, Part I
      • Princeton University: Bitcoin and Cryptocurrency Technologies
      • Princeton University: Computer Science – Algorithms, Theory, and Machines
      • Princeton University: Analysis of Algorithms
      • Infosec: Certified Cloud Security Professional (CCSP)

    How to Sign Up on Coursera

    To sign up for a free class on Coursera, first, go to their website. Then, search for a course you’re interested in. When you find one, look for an “Enroll for Free” button. You might need to choose the “Audit the Course” option, which lets you view most of the course materials without getting a certificate or graded assignments. If you don’t see “Audit,” sometimes you can choose “Full Course, no Certificate” for similar access.

    Good luck and don’t be afraid to advance! #LifelongLearning

  • Kendrick Lamar & SZA’s Grand National Tour: A Cultural Reset

    Y’all. Let me just say this upfront: Kendrick Lamar and SZA’s Grand National Tour isn’t just a concert series—it’s a cultural reset. As a musical fan who’s been tracking every setlist, surprise guest, and viral moment from TikTok and Twitter (X.com), I’m here to break down why this tour is everything.

    Grand National Tour SOLD OUT show in Chicago 6/6/2025

    🚀 Tour Stats: Breaking Records & Selling Out Cities

    • Sold-Out Domination: 20 out of 23 North American shows SOLD OUT, averaging 49,000 fans per night. From Minneapolis to Toronto, cities are buckling under the demand.
    • Global Reign: shows across the U.S., Canada, and Europe (ending August 9 in Stockholm).
    • The Vibe: Named after Kendrick’s iconic Buick GNX (which literally rises onstage during his opener—chills!).

    🎤 The Magic: Why Their Duo Works

    Kendrick and SZA aren’t just sharing a stage; they’re merging two universes:

    • Kendrick’s World: Moody grays, military-precision choreography, and raw intensity. He raps under a lone streetlamp for “Reincarnated” like a hip-hop noir hero.
    • SZA’s World: A living garden with giant ants (“Anthony”), praying mantis dancers, and butterfly wings. She sang “Saturn” while floating in a cocoon gown—yes, REALLY.
    • Together: Their chemistry explodes during collabs like “All the Stars,” where they rise on separate platforms, singing to the skies. Poetry in motion.

    SZA transforms into a butterfly…or a fairy. We nicknamed her “Thickerbelle”🧚🏾‍♀️

    Doja hits the stage to join SZA in their hit “Kiss Me More”

    SZA soothes Justin Beiber to their duet hit “Snooze”

    Lizzo and her new body performs her hit with SZA, “Special”

    🌟 Special Guests: The A-List Parade

    The surprises have been UNREAL:

    • Playboi Carti jumped out in Atlanta for “Good Credit” squawking like a bird. The moshpit people loved it.
    • Baby Keem (Kendrick’s cousin) crushed “Family Ties” in New Jersey.
    • Lizzo brought viral energy to “Special” in L.A., while Justin Bieber swooned with SZA on “Snooze”. I don’t care what yall say, whatever Justin is going through, it didn’t matter on that stage with SZA. She made sure he felt safe.
    • Doja Cat emerged from literal bushes to perform “Kiss Me More” in Vegas (and I screamed).
    • Celebs in Crowds: Pusha T, Roddy Rich, Lebron James, Queen Latifah, Erykah Badu, Ronald Isley & Kandy Johnson, Jermaine Dupri, Anderson Paak are a few to name who attended shows with their loved ones.

    💄 SZA’s NOT BEAUTY Pop-Ups: Gloss & Glam On Tour

    Between sets, SZA’s been hustling her vegan lip gloss line, NOT BEAUTY, with pop-ups in every city:

    • Shades: “Strawberry Jelly,” “In the Flesh,” and “Quartz” ($23 each).
    • Vibes: Free entry, fan meet-ups, and Kendrick even showed face at the New Jersey event looking all cute and healed. Boss moves.
    Kendrick Lamar surprised fans at SZA’s “Not Beauty” pop-up event in New Jersey at the American Dream Mall.

    🔥 Iconic Moments We’ll Never Forget

    • Super Bowl Tease: Their Halftime Show collab was a sneak peek of this tour’s power
    • Kendrick performing “Good Credit” live. I told yall Good Credit was going to be a hit, but yall were so upset he did a collab with Playboi Carti. Good business is good business and if you got good credit, you’ll get more good business.
    • Kendrick’s “Not Like Us” turned from diss track to Black excellence anthem, backed by vibrant visuals of African art and Funkadelic.
    • SZA’s “Kill Bill” with a female mantis EATING HER MATE on screen. Dark? Yes. Genius? Absolutely.
    • Their fake deposition skit trolling Drake’s lawsuit: SZA smoking a joint while Kendrick orders takeout. PETTY.
    Kendrick performing “Good Credit”

    💡 Why This Tour is Changing the Game

    As a fan, here’s my take:

    1. Business Brilliance: By co-headlining, they’ve doubled their reach. Kendrick’s rap stans + SZA’s R&B hive = UNSTOPPABLE.
    2. Artistic Trust: These are two TDE OGs (labelmates since 2013!) who respect each other’s craft. Their collabs (“Luther,” “30 for 30”) feel organic, not forced .
    3. Innovation: Who else blends insect ballets with Pulitzer-level rap? They’re pushing live shows into new dimensions.
    Even got the security guards dancing…

    🎯 Final Thoughts

    The Grand National Tour isn’t just about music—it’s about community. From SZA’s beauty pop-ups (shoutout to the gloss girlies!) to Kendrick’s L.A. hometown love, they’re proving that hip-hop and R&B can share space, shine together, and sell out STADIUMS.

    If you snagged tickets: I envy you. If not? Track those resales. Watch from TikTok! History is being made, and y’all better witness it! 🔥

    Tour dates + merch at grandnationaltour.com 

  • Celebrating Prince: The Innovator of Music and Culture

    June 7th. For millions worldwide, this date sparks an instant refrain: the birth of Prince Rogers Nelson. Born in Minneapolis in 1958, he reshaped music, culture, and countless souls. Today, we remember not just the icon, but the innovator, the secret giver, and the revolutionary who painted the world purple.

    The Sound Revolution: Where Genius Defied Gravity

    Prince wasn’t just a musician—he was a one-man cosmos of creativity. Signed to Warner Bros. at 19 with unprecedented control, he fused funk, rock, pop, and soul into a sound that ignored racial and genre boundaries. His early band—a defiant mix of Black, white, male, and female members—embodied the “Uptown” ethos: “black, white, Puerto Rican / everybody just a freakin’.” 

    • The “Purple Rain” Eruption: The 1984 film and album weren’t just hits; they were cultural tsunamis. Tracks like “When Doves Cry” (with its absence of bass) rewrote production rules, while his electrifying stage presence—trench coat, bandana, and fearless sexuality—left audiences breathless.
    • The Collaborator’s Heart: Prince’s Paisley Park became a laboratory for proteges (Sheila E., Apollonia) and peers (Madonna, Chaka Khan). He penned hits like “Nothing Compares 2 U” (Sinead O’Connor) and “Manic Monday” (The Bangles), proving his genius flowed beyond his own voice.

    The Secret Garden: Philanthropy Without Fanfare

    While his music roared, Prince’s giving whispered. He donated millions anonymously through one of his charities, Love 4 One Another, believing “love needs no publicity.”

    • Education & Empowerment: He gifted $200,000 to transform a nursing home into Harvest Prep Academy, funded recording studios for youth programs, and backed tech initiatives like #YesWeCode to diversify Silicon Valley.
    • Crisis Compassion: After the I-35W bridge collapse in Minneapolis, he quietly sent $50,000 to victims’ families. When Trayvon Martin was killed, he supported the family.
    • Other philanthropic efforts include $80,000 to Urban Ventures to build a youth music studio and $50,000 to Green for All’s environmental jobs initiative.

    Birthdays: From Lavish Parties to Quiet Reflection

    Prince’s relationship with June 7th evolved dramatically:

    • 1980s Extravagance: In 1984, he celebrated at First Avenue with The Revolution, debuting new songs days before Purple Rain exploded. The next year, a masquerade ball featured “giant spiral staircases, brass beds, and international food stations.”
    • A Spiritual Shift: After embracing Jehovah’s Witness beliefs in the 2000s, he publicly rejected birthdays. Yet in 2015, he broke silence just once—tweeting a fan’s tribute article with the caption, “What U give U get back tenfold.”

    In Their Words: The Prince They Knew

    Prince himself was poetic, provocative, and profound:

    “Cool means being able to hang with yourself… If there’s nobody you’re afraid of? Then you’re cool.” 
    “Our consciousness is programmed…Try to create. Start by creating your day.” 

    Fellow artists revered him:

    • Van Jones: “He wasn’t red, and he wasn’t blue. He was purple.” 
    • Nelson George (music journalist): “Prince humped the bassist’s leg, kissed the keyboardist… Whatever was going on in frigid Minnesota was definitely freaky.” 

    The Eternal Rain: Why He Still Matters

    Prince’s 2016 departure left a silence only his music fills. Yet his legacy thrives:

    • Artistic Fearlessness: He fought Warner Bros. for creative freedom, infamously writing “slave” on his face and changing his name to a symbol
    • Inclusion as Gospel: His bands, audiences, and beliefs celebrated unity. As Jones noted, “Nobody went to a Prince concert and said, ‘I don’t belong here.’” 

    On this day, we don’t just say “Happy Birthday.” We say thank you. For the guitar solos that cracked the sky, the kindness hidden in plain sight, and the courage to be defiantly, beautifully you. As Prince himself might whisper: “Don’t cry. He’s coming. Don’t die.”

    “I wish U heaven. I wish U purple rain.”
    — Prince, “I Wish U Heaven”

    Prince of my favorite artists and musicians since I was a kid. I have every movie (except the Second Coming…still looking) and even got to see Prince live in concert on his Musicology tour as a high school graduation gift to myself. This man had style, the art of beautiful noise, and broke barriers in the music industry as he fought for his masters and royalties. Though he left us in 2016, his artistic presence lives on.

    Enjoy one of his best performances from his best one of his best movies and albums… “It’s Gonna Be a Beautiful Night” from the Sign o’ the Times album and movie. Real music, real energy, real band, REALLY REAL!!!

    It’s Gonna Be a Beautiful Night by Prince

    What’s your favorite Prince memory? Share how his purple threads still weave through your life below. 💜