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PERMIT NO. 1179 

Old dillard 

museum 

plans 

centennial 

celebration 

PAGE 12 

PARENTS ARE 

STRUGGLING 

WITH HIGH 

PRICES THIS 

YEAR. IT MAY 

SHAPE HOW 

THEY VOTE 

CHECK OUT PAGE 16 

THURSDAY, APRIL 11 - APRIL 17, 2024 

VOL. 53 NO. 10 $1.00 

LAWSUIT ACCUSES GEORGE FLOYD 

SCHOLARSHIP OF VIOLATING 

FEDERAL CIVIL RIGHTS LAW 

Biden plans to cancel 

student loan debt, 

23 million Americans 

may be impacted 

Anything to stop Black students from having an opportunity.... 

Submitted by Sharelle Burt 

(BlackEnterprises) 

Anything to stop Black students from 

having an opportunity.... 

The George Floyd Memorial Scholarship 

offered at a college in Minnesota is facing a 

lawsuit after being accused of violating the 

Civil Rights Act. 

According to a complaint filed by the 

conservative nonprofit Equal Protection 

Project of the Legal Insurrection 

Foundation, the George Floyd Memorial 

Scholarship at North Central University 

in Minneapolis violates Title VI of the 

Civil Rights Act of 1964, which prohibits 

“discrimination on the basis of race, 

color and national origin in programs 

and activities receiving federal financial 

assistance.” 

According to the school’s website, 

applicants must “be a student who is Black 

or African American, that is, a person 

having origins in any of the Black racial 

groups of Africa” in order to be eligible. 

Applicants who don’t fall into that racial 

category are automatically disqualified 

from ineligibility for the scholarship. 

At the time of the scholarship’s 

implementation in 2020, North Central 

President Scott Hagan said it was created 

(Cont’d on page 3) 

Supporters of U.S. President Joe Biden’s s plans for student debt relief march near the White House after a U.S. 

Supreme Court decision blocking the president’s plan to cancel $430 billion in student loan debt, in Washington, 

U.S. June 30, 2023. (Photo credit: REUTERS/Leah Millis) 

By Steve Holland 

and Stephanie Kelly 

(Reuters) 

MADISON, WI -- President 

Joe Biden announced on 

Monday plans to ease student 

debt that would benefit at 

least 23 million Americans, 

addressing a key issue for 

young voters whose support he 

needs as he seeks re-election 

in November. 

The plans, which the 

Democratic president detailed 

in Madison, Wisconsin, include 

cancelling up to $20,000 

of accrued and capitalized 

interest for borrowers, 

regardless of income, which 

Biden’s administration 

estimates would eliminate the 

entirety of that interest for 23 

million borrowers. 

Progressive voters, whom 

Biden hopes will support him 

against Republican challenger 

Donald Trump, have long 

urged the White House to 

address student loan debt. 

Biden’s administration has 

taken a string of actions 

despite the U.S. Supreme 

Court blocking his initial plan 

last year. 

The issue remains high on 

the agenda of younger voters, 

many of whom have concerns 

about Biden’s foreign policy 

on the war in Gaza and fault 

him for not achieving greater 

debt forgiveness. Republicans 

have called Biden’s student 

loan forgiveness approach an 

overreach of his authority and 

an unfair benefit to collegeeducated 

borrowers while 

other borrowers received no 

such relief. 

Biden’s new plans include 

automatically cancelling 

debt for borrowers who are 

eligible for certain forgiveness 

programs, who entered 

repayment decades ago, who 

enrolled in low financial 

value programs, or who are 

experiencing hardship. 

“This relief can be life 


DeSantis predicts voters 

will reject ‘radical’ 

ballot measures on 

pot and abortion 

Broward Health and Miami Jewish Health celebrate the opening of the PACE Center at Broward Health with a 

ribbon cutting. (Photo courtesy of Broward Health) 

Broward Health And Miami Jewish Health 

Celebrate The Opening Of Broward PACE Program 

FORT LAUDERDALE, FL. -- Broward Health and Miami Jewish Health plan 

to launch the Broward PACE Program, a new Program of All-Inclusive Care for the 

Elderly (PACE). A ribbon cutting was held for the new, 16,000-square-foot center in 

Fort Lauderdale on March 14. Broward Health and Miami Jewish Health leadership, 

community leaders and governmental officials attended the event. 

“Florida is home to the second-largest elderly population in the United States, and we 

understand that this specific population often requires specialized care and assistance 

to maintain their health and independence,” Broward Health President and CEO Shane 

Strum said. “Broward Health remains committed to ensuring that our seniors have 

access to high-quality healthcare as they age.” 

“We are thankful and proud of our relationship with 

Broward Health and look forward to working together,” 

Miami Jewish Health President and CEO Jeff Freimark 


The governor 

contended that many 

voters had “developed 

a skepticism” about 

proposed amendments 

in recent years and that 

the “default” position 

for many voters was no. 

By Gary Fineout 

(Politico) 

TALLAHASSEE, FL. -- 

Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis 

predicted Thursday that 

two initiatives dealing 

with abortion rights and 

recreational marijuana 

will fail at the ballot box 

this November once voters 

become aware of the 

“radical” elements included 

in the two measures. 

The remarks made 

by DeSantis are his first 

public comments on the 

initiatives since the state 

Supreme Court allowed 

the proposed constitutional 

amendments to go forward. 

The court, which includes 

five justices handpicked by 

the governor, rejected calls 

by Republicans, including 

DeSantis and Attorney 

General Ashley Moody, to 

block the initiatives. 

“Once voters figure out 

how radical both of those 

are they’re going to fail,” 

DeSantis said following a 

bill signing ceremony held in 

Davie. “They are very, very 

extreme.” 

DeSantis also contended 

that many voters had 

“developed a skepticism” 

about proposed amendments 

in recent years and that the 

“default” position for many 

voters was no. While it’s true 

that voters have rejected 

various amendments in the 

last three elections, several 

measures were put on the ballot by 

the GOP-controlled Legislature — 

not outside groups. Additionally, 

voters have elected Republican 

candidates while voting in favor of 

measures pushed by progressive 

groups. A supermajority of voters 

backed a hike in the state’s 

minimum wage the same year that 

Donald Trump won the state. 

More broadly, abortion rights 

advocates in recent years have 

won in state elections, including in 

Continue reading @ 

thewestsidegazette.com 

Thursday 

April 11 th 

Partly Cloudy 

Sunrise: 7:08am 

Fri 

82° 

60° 

81° 

64° 

79° 

68° 

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61° 

Sunset: 7:39pm 

Sat Sun Mon Tues 

81° 

73° 

The Westside Gazette Newspaper 

@TheWestsideGazetteNewspaper 

WESTSIDE GAZETTE IS A MEMBER: 

National Newspaper Publishers Association (NNPA) 

Southeastern African-American Publishers Association (SAAPA) 

Florida Association of Black Owned Media (FABOM)

B-CU 

PAGE 2 • APRIL 11 - APRIL 17, 2024 

The Westside Gazette Newspaper is honored to feature these editorial contributions made by local students. 

The legal team representing 

former President Donald Trump 

has filed an appeal regarding a gag 

order and venue change just one 

week before his hush money trial 

is scheduled to commence. This 

move signals a strategic maneuver 

aimed at potentially influencing the 

proceedings and ensuring a more 

favorable environment for Trump’s 

defense. The gag order, if upheld, 

could restrict both the prosecution 

and defense from making public 

statements about the 

case, while the venue 

change could impact 

Celebrates Day of Service with 

the composition of the jury pool and the dynamics of the trial itself. With the trial 

e Depot’s “Retool Your School” #1 

of these appeals could significantly shape the trajectory and outcome of the impending 

okman University 

gnificant day of unity 

Thursday, Jan. 18, 

l and Libby Johnson 

Civic Engagement 

momentous occasion 

er students, faculty, 

i, and friends to 

the University’s 

lishment – securing 

position in Home 

igious “Retool Your 

tition and receiving a 

0,000 grant dedicated 

ancement. 

ler temperatures and 

, the collective spirit 

most 135 participants, 

epot Daytona Beach 

er Therese Watsonforces 

in yesterday’s 

fort. Their mission 

s, involving projects 

assembling bookcases 

tow – it’s a special night. 

tdoor dining sets to 

rcade games, foosball 

tball hoops, hockey 

e tennis tables. Even 

er conditions couldn’t 

ication, with the only 

Submitted by Rod Carter 

iveness 

direct. 

after 

cated he service. goes on. 

se to 30,000 

have been 

for at least 

ut receiving 

ncome-driven 

will now see 

en. 

looming, Trump’s legal team is working diligently to secure advantageous conditions 

for their client, highlighting the high stakes involved in this legal battle. The outcome 

trial, which centers around allegations related to hush money payments made during 

Trump’s presidency. 

concession being the postponement of painting and 

stripping the basketball court – a minor hiccup until 

more favorable weather prevails. 

Dr. William Berry, Provost and Acting President, 

expressed excitement and gratitude, stating, “We are 

excited about this project and grateful to all those who 

By Layla Davidson * photo credit: cnn.com 

Tavis Myrick (center) poses with members of Gentlemen’s Quest. He started the mentoring program 10 years ago while an 

assistant principal at Chamberlain High School in Tampa. 

Gentlemen’s Quest changing 

lives of young Black men 

In downtown Tampa at Amalie Arena, Tampa Bay 

Lightning hockey players glide across the ice gearing 

up for the night’s game. It’s Nov. 1, 2021. 

They are taking on the Washington Capitals, a 

team they just defeated 16 days before. 

The 7 o’clock Monday night matchup is in front of a 

sold-out crowd: 19,092 people. For one person watching 

from high above the ice – with his own young team in 

Before the puck drops on the massive monitor above 

center ice billed as the “largest of its kind in North 

America,” a video begins to play. 

“All kids need a little help,” the voice said. 

It’s Lightning player Anthony Cirelli, number 

71. His speech, layered with inspirational music, is 

competing with a chorus of background voices providing 

an additional, yet unintended soundtrack. Cirelli’s 

words, a far cry from the language we are accustomed 

to hearing from hockey players, are calm, measured, 

Cirelli tells the crowd on that November 

night, “That person is Tavis Myrick.” 

Myrick helps young men through the Tampabased 

male mentoring group he founded called 

“Gentleman’s Quest,” or GQ. 

A video that night showed various photos 

of Myrick with GQ students and how he gives 

them a different outlook on life. 

It boasts of the 100% high school graduation 

rate for young men in the program. It’s all a 

very Reader’s Digest version of the last decade 

of Myrick’s professional life – a decade dedicated 

to changing the lives of hundreds of young men 

in the Tampa area. 

How GQ started: 

But to fully understand why Myrick does 

what he does, you would need more time than 

a short video. He is a man who has no biological 

children but embraces hundreds of 

“sons.” 

Tavis started GQ 10 years ago while 

an assistant principal at Chamberlain 

High School in Tampa. But it wasn’t 

his idea. It wasn’t even on his radar. 

His principal told him he had to do 

“something.” 

“She said to me on my first day 

in a meeting with her, ‘It’s a lot of 

Black boys at our school that’s being 

suspended and expelled for things that 

aren’t really happening on our campus, 

but it’s trickling onto our campus and 

Continue reading online at: 


participated in the vote for B-CU. These enhancements 

will help create more vibrant and engaging spaces for 

our students to retreat on campus for a brain break or 

find inspiration through the downtime.” 

Home Depot’s “Retool Your School” program, 

established in 2009, has been a beacon for positive change, 

providing over $9.25 million in campus improvement 

grants to Historically Black Colleges and Universities 

(HBCUs). Beyond the competition, the Office of Alumni 

Continue reading online at: thewestsidegazette.com 

Biden credited the success 

of these relief efforts to the 

corrective measures taken 

to address broken student 

loan programs. He asserted 

that these fixes have removed 

barriers preventing borrowers 

from accessing the relief they 

were entitled to under the law. 

“...A little hope and someone who believes in them,” 

Cirelli is announcing that night’s Tampa Bay 

Lightning Community Hero. The Community Heroes 

program is a philanthropic venture of the Lighting 

Foundation. Team owner Jeff Vinik and his wife, 

Penny, honor community leaders at their home games. 

The program started in 2011 to “celebrate deserving 

heroes and distribute funding to non-profits throughout 

the Tampa Bay community.” According to the Viniks, 

they have more than 550 citizens, and awarded $29 

million to over 650 non-profits. 

The president outlined the 

broader achievements of his 

administration in supporting 

students and borrowers, 

including achieving the most 

significant increases in Pell 

Grants in over a decade, aimed 



8th 

grade 

student 

wins 

literacy 

fair 

Congratulations 

to 8th grade student, 

Triniti Maxwell, for 

winning the Broward 

County Literary Fair 

award! She created and 

submitted an original 

scene writing script 

entitled “Year 3000”. 

What an amazing 

accomplishment! 

Submitted by 

Camille Knox 

(Source Next Step) 

Around the state: 

Schools could be 

consolidated in Broward, 

Osceola commissioners 

unanimously voted to 

approve funding to 

continue a free college 

tuition program for high 

school graduates, the 

Escambia school board 

is asking the county 

commissioners to put the 

renewal of the half-cent 

sales tax on the ballot and 

the University of South 

Florida announced plans to 

launch the first college of 

artificial intelligence and 

cybersecurity in the state. 

Here are details about 

those stories and other 

developments from the 

state’s districts, private 

schools, and colleges and 

universities: 

Broward: The school 

system here is preparing 

to close some schools after 

data shows that about 

28% of public schools 

in the district have an 

enrollment that is under 

70%. Superintendent Peter 

www.thewestsidegazette.com 

Metal detectors headed to 

some Broward schools, USF 

launching first college for AI, 

free tuition initiatives and 

more 

Licata said the trend is statewide and attributed it to a 

combination of factors, including the growing number 

of charter schools and parents’ use of vouchers. Licata 

said he plans to bring forward ideas at an April 16 

workshop proposals that could include specific schools 

that could be combined, merged or dramatically 

changed. 

Meanwhile, a plan to install walk-through metal 

detectors at some Broward public schools was approved 

by school board members at a meeting earlier this week. 

Board members formally approved the plan, which calls 

for installing the metal detectors at a total of 10 high 

schools and other school centers. Flanagan High and 

Taravella High will receive the detectors for summer 

sessions, and eight more will receive them before school 

starts in August. WPTV. NBC Miami. The school district 

here “knowingly and willfully” refused to comply with 

the Florida law related to sharing 2018 referendum 

dollars with charter schools, and must pay millions by 

Dec. 31 or face sanctions according to a memo issued 

by Education Commissioner Manny Diaz. The district 

should document how it plans to comply prior to an 

April 17 meeting of the state Board of Education, Diaz 

wrote. He plans to make the formal recommendation 

to the state board on March 27. 

Palm Beach: Five Palm Beach Central High 

educators who were arrested in July but cleared of 

all charges regarding their failure to report a sexual 

assault of a student are not going to return to campus 

according to the school district. The district is continuing 

to investigate former Palm Beach Central Principal 

Darren Edgecomb, then- Assistant Principals Dan 

Snider and Nereyda Cayado de Garcia, former chorus 

teacher Scott Houchins and former guidance counselor 

Priscilla Carter. All five employees were re-assigned to 


College 

Prep 

Word of 

the Week 

noun - excessive pride 

adjective 

HOW TO USE QUIESCENT IN A 

HOW TO USE IN A SENTENCE: SENTENCE 

being at rest; inactive or 

motionless; quiet; still: a 

quiescent mind. 

Hubris leads to the downfall of many politicians and celebrities. 

My uncle’s hubris caused him to be an egotistical and cruel man. 

quiescent 

hubris 

[(h(yoo)-bres) 

kwee-es-uhnt, kwahy- ] 

It’s possible that other volcanoes with 

long quiescentperiods may also have 

subtle but protracted warning periods 

as well. 

List 

compiled 

by Kamar 

Jackson, 

Dillard High 

Freshman


Deeply Rooted 

APRIL 11 - APRIL 17, 2024 • PAGE 3 

Broward Estates Elementary School 

Students Go Sole-Searching 

Rita Case and Rick Case Cares Partner with Soles4Souls 4EveryKid 

Initiative to Distribute Free Athletic Shoes to Entire School 

FORT LAUDERDALE, FL 

-- Students in underserved 

Broward County public schools 

continue to receive brand 

new athletic shoes, thanks 

to Rita Case, President and 

CEO of Rick Case Automotive 

Group, who is the founding 

sponsor and chief fundraiser 

of the Soles4Souls 4EveryKid 

program in Broward County. 

Most recently, Case led 

her Rick Case Cares team 

in volunteering to help 

every student at Broward 

Estates Elementary in 

Fort Lauderdale go “sole”- 

searching for that perfect pair 

of sneakers. Students walked 

away with an extra special 

spring in their step, choosing 

from an array of athletic 

shoes that fit their feet and 

personality. They also left 

with a pair of socks and a 

book. 

Senator Osgood Responds to Florida’s 

Choice to Opt Out of the Summer Electronic 

Benefit Transfer (EBT) Program 

Submitted by Senator 

Rosalind Osgood 

TAMARAC, FL –This 

summer, Florida has opted 

out of receiving additional 

funding for the Summer 

“It’s been proven that 

well fitted, branded athletic 

shoes encourage children 

and improve every child’s 

willingness to participate 

in and join in athletic 

activities,” Case said. “It 

builds self-esteem, confidence 

and a sense of belonging 

with their peers, and it 

keeps them moving. If we 

can keep kids confident and 

positive and wanting to be in 

school because their feet are 

comfortable, they’ll get to the 

next grade on time. If they 

get to the next grade on time, 

they’ll get through school. 

Education is the greatest gift 

that we can support because 

once it’s given no one can ever 

take it away.” 

Case has raised nearly 

$500,000 for the 4EveryKid 

program with many fiveyear 

commitments to secure 

Electronic Benefit Transfer 

(EBT) Program, a decision 

that could leave millions of 

children in the state, without 

proper nutrition. The Summer 

EBT Program aims to bridge 

the nutritional gap for lowincome 

families during the 

summer months when school 

is out. Participating families 

receive $120 per eligible 

child, distributed as $40 per 

month for three months, to 

purchase food from different 

stores. By leaving the 

$250 million on the table, 

the state risks worsening 

Florida’s hunger population. 

In response, Florida State 

Getting ready for the students at the Broward Estates Elementary School Soles4Souls shoe giveaway 

funding for years to come. 

With her husband Rick, 

she’s been involved with 

Soles4Souls since 2013 when 

they began providing coats 

Senator Rosalind Osgood 

(D-Broward County) released 

this statement: 

“I just cannot understand 

Florida’s continued efforts to 

hurt people and diminish the 

quality of life for those who 

are already struggling. 

When children are out 

of school for the summer, it 

increases household budgets. 

Many poor families, especially 

those already struggling with 

food insecurity, need their 

EBT assistance to maintain 

their already disadvantaged 

living situation. Government 

entities must help people, not 

hurt them more.” 

LAWSUIT ACCUSES GEORGE FLOYD SCHOLARSHIP 

OF VIOLATING FEDERAL CIVIL RIGHTS LAW 

to “invest like never before in a new generation 

of young Black Americans, who are poised and 

ready to take leadership in our nation.” 

However, foundation leadership is looking 

at it from a different viewpoint. “The George 

Floyd Scholarship eligibility requirements 

are openly racially discriminatory,” founder 

William Jacobson said, according to Fox 

News. “Regardless of the purpose of the racial 

discrimination, it is wrong and unlawful.” 

He proposed a plan that would “compensate 

students shut out of the George Floyd 

Scholarship due to discrimination.” 

The Legal Insurrection Foundation 

from Front Page 

says its mission is to be an advocate for the 

advancement of free expression and academic 

freedom on college campuses, and its suit 

claims the scholarship may even have criminal 

consequences, since it “defies the civil rights 

protections of Minnesota’s Human Rights 

Act, which makes it a criminal offense for an 

educational institution to limit access to any 

educational program on the basis of race.” 

Jacobson touched on the Supreme Court’s 

controversial overturn of affirmative action in 

2023. On June 29, the Supreme Court decided 



Biden plans to cancel student loan debt 


changing,” Biden said in Madison, just as 

the total solar eclipse in North America was 

gracing the region. “Folks, I will never stop 

delivering student loan relief for hard-working 

Americans... It’s for the good of our economy.” 

He added that if he is re-elected in 

November’s presidential election, he would 

push hard to make community college free. 

If the latest plans are finalized following a 

public comment period, they will take effect as 

early as this fall, White House spokesperson 

Karine Jean-Pierre told reporters in a call 

detailing the plans. Combined with the 

administration’s previous actions, they would 

benefit more than 30 million Americans, Jean- 

Pierre added. 

U.S. Senator Bill Cassidy, the top 

Republican on the Senate education panel, 

said such “loan schemes” simply transfer the 

cost of the debt onto others. 

“This is an unfair ploy to buy votes before 

an election and does absolutely nothing to 

address the high cost of education that puts 

young people right back into debt,” Cassidy 

wrote in a statement. 

To date, the administration has said it has 

approved $146 billion in student debt relief for 

4 million Americans. 

As of June 2023, approximately 43.4 million 

student loan recipients had $1.63 trillion in 

outstanding loans, according to the Federal 

Student Aid website. 

“We’re delivering as much relief as possible 

for as many borrowers as possible, as quickly 

as possible,” U.S. Education Secretary Miguel 

Cardona said. 

Biden has vowed to continue pushing 

student debt relief to as many borrowers as 

possible following the Supreme Court’s decision 

blocking his earlier plan to cancel hundreds of 

billions of dollars in debt, and administration 

officials said they studied the 6-3 ruling in 

crafting the new plans. 

Other administration officials were set to 

tout the new plans in events across the United 

States on Monday, including Vice President 

Kamala Harris in Philadelphia. 

and shoes to children at Boys 

& Girls Clubs in Broward 

County. 

Soles4Souls is committed 

to partnering with schools 

and organizations across the 

country to donate new athletic 

shoes to children experiencing 

homelessness and in 

underserved populations. 

“We make sure that 

thousands of shoes come into 

Broward County each school 

year to serve our students 

experiencing homelessness. 

It takes a village to raise our 

children,” said Tiffany Turner, 

Vice President of Outreach for 

Soles4Souls. “We appreciate 

all the support we have 

received here, most notably 

from Rita and her team. There 

are smiles all the way around 

when these students put on 

their new shoes.” 

To date, more than 5,700 

kids have received new athletic 

shoes in Broward County 

through the 4EveryKid 

program in partnership with 

the Homeless Education 

Assistance Resource Team 

(HEART). A pair of new 

high-quality athletic shoes 

typically costs between $40 

and $80, with many priced 

well over $100. Add to that, 

as children grow, they need 

multiple pairs, which is costly 

for families. With the athletic 

shoes received through 

the 4EveryKid program, 

students participate more 

fully in school, and it frees up 

resources their parents can 

then use for other necessities. 

Case 

introduced 

Soles4Souls’ 4EveryKid 

program to partners Children’s 

Services Council of 

Broward County, United Way 

of Broward County, Cathy and 

James Donnelly Charitable 

Fund at the Community 

Foundation of Broward 

County, UKG, UNCS Cares, 

Rotary Club of Weston and 

the Channel 7 Foundation 

who generously help fund the 

program in Broward County.


Westside Gazette Calendar 

of Events 

Deeply Rooted 

LOCAL HAPPENINGS IN 

BROWARD MIAMI-DADE 

AND PALM BEACH 

COUNTIES 

HAVE YOUR COMMUNITY EVENTS 

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The Westside Gazette Recognizes April is 

National Autism and Stress Awareness Month 


JUNE 17- AUGUST 1, 2024 

8:30AM - 4:00 PM 

MONDAY-THURSDAY 

Location: 

Mt. Hermon 

A.M.E. 

4 0 1 N W 7 t h T e r r a c e , 

F o r t L a u d e r d a l e , F L 

3 3 3 1 1 

DOWNTOWN HOLLYWOOD ARTWALK 

3rd Saturday, of Every Month from 6 to 

11 p.m., at at 2000 

Harrison Street, #Bay 3 

Hollywood, FL 33020. 

LITERACY 

SPORTS 

FITNESS 

Arts & Music 

STEM 

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Money 

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COMMUNITY SERVICE 

Water 

Safety 

How to Vote-by-Mail in 

the State of Florida 

As you know, voters who intend to vote 

by mail in upcoming municipal elections 

or the 2024 elections must now renew 

their request for a vote-by-mail ballot 

due to a change in Florida law. Below is a 

handy resource to facilitate any voter in 

any county to make a request for a vote 

by mail ballot. 

The NAACP Florida State Conference is 

Follow @TheWestsideGazette 

Newspaper on Social Media 

+ WATCH episodes of the 2-Minute Warning via YT or FB 

STAY 

CONNECTED -- 


FREE BREAKFAST, LUNCH & SNACK! 

Open to rising 3rd-5th Graders 

(24-25 School Year) 

$75 registration fee/$100 per wk 

SPACE IS LIMITED! 

More Info/Registration Link: 

https://tinyurl.com/2024-CEA- 

Summer-Kids-Camp 

one of many voting and civil rights organizations 

supporting the use of this 

document. 

Please circulate widely and encourage 

family, friends, and colleagues to timely 

request their vote by mail ballot. 

https://allvotingislocal.org/how-tovote-by-mail-in-florida/ 

Name: 

Address: 

City: 

State/Zip:


By Stacy M. Brown 

NNPA Newswire Senior 

National Correspondent 

@StacyBrownMedia 

Five years ago, Arlette 

Ebanks experienced severe 

kidney pain that she believed 

suggested a criminal need 

for a transplant. Her doctors 

disagreed, but the 52-yearold 

Northeast, D.C., resident, 

and mother of two who 

worked for the Department 

of Transportation for more 

than half of her life until her 

deteriorating health landed 

her on permanent disability, 

had grown ever more anxious 

Ayanna Davis 

(Source BlackNews.Com) 

NATIONWIDE — 

Ayanna Davis, an African 

American woman known as 

“Phenomenally Autistic,” 

has recently illustrated her 

30th children’s book. She is 

an award-winning artist and 

Autism Advocate. Via her 

books and other initiatives, 

Ayanna champions for Black 

Autistics to gain recognition, 

Deeply Rooted 

FAST FACTS ABOUT 

CHOLESTEROL 

(Source Daytona Times) 

Heart disease is the 

nation’s leading cause of 

death for men and women, 

according to the Centers 

Yours in good health. 


Racial Bias Uncovered in Kidney Transplantation System: 

Thousands of Black Patients Prioritized After Years of Waiting 

At issue is a once widely used test that overestimated how well Black people’s kidneys 

were functioning, making them look healthier than they really were. An automated formula 

calculated results for Black and non-Black patients that were far different from those of others, 

delaying organ failure diagnosis and, ultimately, proper evaluation for a kidney transplant. 

as health care providers 

attempted various measures 

of maintenance. 

Recently, physicians 

at George Washington 

University Hospital told 

Ebanks that she should have 

been on the transplant list, 

and understandably, Ebanks 

wondered why previous 

doctors hadn’t done so. Now, 

Ebanks knows why. “All this 

time, all this stress and worry, 

was all because I’m Black,” 

Ebanks stated with intense 

incredulity in an interview 

with the Washington 

Informer. 

At issue is a once widely 

used test that overestimated 

how well Black people’s 

kidneys were functioning, 

making them look healthier 

than they really were. An 

automated formula calculated 

results for Black and non- 

Black patients that were 

far different from those of 

others, delaying organ failure 

diagnosis and, ultimately, 

proper evaluation for a kidney 

transplant. 

The disparity only 

exacerbated existing 

inequities, with Black patients 

being more susceptible to 

needing a new kidney but less 

likely to receive one. “On the 

Black Woman With Autism Makes History, 

Releases Her 30th Children’s Book 

information, and access to 

resources to improve their 

well-being with being Autistic. 

At just seven years old, 

Ayanna produced her first 

art show, where she also sold 

her first piece. Through art, 

Davis has found a medium 

to express herself when the 

challenges of Autism seem 

insurmountable. 

While she lives with five 

autoimmune disorders and 

has endured over 300 seizures, 

Ayanna remains steadfast in 

promoting messages of selflove, 

diversity, and inclusion 

through her advocacy, books, 

and art. 

Her latest book, I’m 

Autistic and I’m Phenomenal, 

is a story that addresses 

the complexities and joys of 

living as an Autistic. From 

the vantage point of a Black 

girl, a navigation through the 

process of understanding and 

acceptance of the condition 

takes place. 

Ayanna’s art, advocacy, 

and illustrations reflect 

that representation is 

important with respect to all 

young people. Her reverent 

depictions and storytelling of 

Black, Autistic girlhood are 

designed to instill acceptance 

of the image of themselves, 

and confidence to accomplish 

their dreams. Their skin tone 

and hair are beautiful, and 

they can do anything! 

In addition to her Autistic 

characters, Ayanna has 

created characters with 

vitiligo, albinism, limb 

differences, and more. 

Her extraordinary 

work was recognized in 

Westchester County, NY, 

where she was presented 



one hand,” Ebanks remarked, 

“I have not only been put on 

the waiting list, but moved 

up to where I am now more 

confident that I will get a 

new kidney. On the other 

hand, it’s infuriating that we 

keep seeing how racism in 

medicine, bias in healthcare, 

is causing unnecessary pain 

and suffering among African 

Americans.” 

The U.S. organ transplant 

network has now ordered 

hospitals and care facilities 

to use race-neutral test 

results only when adding 



4 tips to get high cholesterol under control 

for Disease Control and 

Prevention, but many people 

aren’t aware they may be at 

elevated risk. More than 71 

million adults in the United 

States have high low-density 

lipoprotein (LDL) cholesterol 

and nearly 50 million don’t 

have it under control, which 

puts them at higher risk for 

cardiovascular events, such 

as heart attack and stroke. 

What’s more, nearly onethird 

(31%) of U.S. adults 

are not aware that having 

high cholesterol puts them 

at greater risk for heart 

attack and stroke, according 

to the findings of a recent 

study conducted by The 

Harris Poll commissioned by 

Esperion Therapeutics, Inc. 

The poll also revealed some 

inconsistent understanding 

about treatment options 

available for those with 

uncontrolled cholesterol. 

Fully 3 in 10 (30%) of those 

taking statins believe statins 

are the only LDL lowering 



April 8, 2024 

This Week in Health: Leprosy in Florida 

Westside Health Brief 

Marsha Mullings, MPH 

There have been recent reports in the news 

about a rise in the number of cases of Hansen’s 

disease (leprosy) in Florida. 81% of the cases 

have been identified in central Florida, primarily 

in Brevard County. 

Leprosy is a disease caused by a bacteria called 

Mycobacterium leprae, a slow-growing bacteria 

that may take up to 20 years before causing 

symptoms in an infected person. Leprosy can 

affect the eyes, skin, nerves, and nasal lining. In 

advanced cases, paralysis of the hands and feet 

may occur. 

TRANSMISSION OF LEPROSY 

Scientists are not 

sure of the exact 

mechanism of 

transmission of 

leprosy between 

individuals. What is 

known is that leprosy 

is not very 

contagious, and 

prolonged exposure 

to a person with 

untreated leprosy, 

over many months, is necessary for transmission 

to occur. It is often difficult to locate the source 

of transmission. In the southern US, some 

armadillos are naturally infected with the 

bacteria that causes leprosy, however, the risk of 

infection from exposure to armadillos is low. For 

general health reasons, it is best to avoid contact 

with armadillos. 

SYMPTOMS OF LEPROSY 

Symptoms of leprosy may include: 

• Discolored patches of skin 

• Growths (nodules) on the skin 

• Thick, stiff, or dry skin 

• Painless ulcers on the soles of feet 

• Painless swelling or lumps on the face or 

earlobes 

• Loss of eyebrows or eyelashes 

Symptoms caused by nerve damage include – 

numbness of affected skin area, weakness or 

paralysis, eye problems that may lead to 

blindness. 

Leprosy is treated with a combination of two or 

three antibiotics, usually for a period of one to 

two years. Leprosy can be cured with a wellmanaged 

course of treatment. 

Please see a health care provider if you think 

you may have had prolonged exposure to a 

person with leprosy. 

Source: CDC; www.cdc.gov 

Situated across from Provident Park, Holy Cross Health Center is a beacon of health 

and hope for Sistrunk and surrounding Ft. Lauderdale communities Today, we 

provide an array of medical services designed to foster well-being, 

from family medicine and pediatric care to annual wellness visits, 

immunizations and disease prevention – empowering the 

communities we serve to grow and thrive. For an appointment, 

please call or visit us online. holy-cross.com • 954-542-4000 

1409 Sistrunk Blvd, Suite 103 

Ft. Lauderdale, FL 33311


WESTSIDE 

GAZETTE 

NEWSPAPER STAFF 

Bobby R. Henry, Sr. 

PUBLISHER 

Sonia Henry-Robinson 

COMPTROLLER 

Tawanna C. Taylor 

ADMINISTRATIVE 

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Arri D. Henry 

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Carma L. Henry 

COMMUNITY NEWS 

EDITOR 

Sylvester “Nunnie’ Robinson 

SPORTS WRITER 

Elizabeth D. Henry 

CIRCULATION 

MANAGER 

NoRegret Media 

WEBMASTER 

Carma T. Taylor 

DIGITAL SPECIALIST 

Eric Sears 

IT SPECIALIST 

Ron Lyons 

PHOTOGRAPHER 

Levi Henry, Jr.: 

PUBLISHER 

(Emeritus) 

Yvonne Henry: 

EDITOR 

(Emeritus) 

WEBSITE: 


Broward County’s 

Largest African 

American Owned and 

Operated Newspaper 

Serving 

Broward - Miami-Dade 

and 

Palm Beach Counties 

545 N.W. 7th Terrace 

Fort Lauderdale, FL 

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Mailing Address: 

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OFFICE (954) 525-1489 

FAX: (954) 525-1861 

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CREDO -The Black Press 

believes that America 

can best lead the world 

away from racial and national 

antagonisms 

when it accords to 

every person, regardless 

of race, color or creed, 

full human and legal 

rights. Hating no person, 

fearing no person, the 

Black Press strives to 

help every person in the 

firm belief that all are 

hurt as long as anyone is 

held back. 

LETTERS TO THE EDITOR 

GUIDELINES 

We welcome letters from 

the 

public. Letters must be 

signed with a clearly 

Trump’s Perceived 

Political Psychosis 

Evokes Voters’ Epiphany 

“Those who surrender their power, soul, and vote 

to suffers of political psychosis inherently faces a 

perilous epiphany!” John Johnson II, 04/10/24 

By John Johnson II 

America is the embodiment of its 

people’s values, beliefs, mores, customs, 

culture, politics, normative reality, 

laws, and religions. These cornerstones 

serve as the pillars of our three 

branches of government entrusted into 

the hands of elected political officials. 

Foremost, beginning with a president 

lacking leadership qualities, prudence, 

and law-abiding character, our society 

existences, civility, and prosperity 

faces a tragic fate. Former president 

Trump’s perceived political psychosis 

should evoke voters’ epiphany. 

The National Alliance on Mental Health characterizes 

psychosis as “disruptive to a person’s thoughts and perceptions 

that make it difficult for them to recognize what is real and 

what isn’t.” This basic definition of psychosis familiarizes 

voters with one of the most common mental disorder; delusions 

and disorganized thinking. 

Delusions describe an individual having false beliefs not 

shared by a sizable percentage of the population. Disorganized/ 

confused thinking becomes apparent when an individual’s 

words and ideas don’t make logical sense. Hopefully, once 

voters conduct their own introspection embrace this powerful 

information, they’ll experience something often called an 

“epiphany.” 

Well, for the undecided or reluctant voter, an epiphany as 

defined by Merriam Webster’s Dictionary constitutes a sudden 

perception of the essential nature or meaning of something. 

Consequently, the following information regarding evidence of 

Trump’s political psychosis should elicit a voter’s epiphany. 

Shortly after losing the 2020 presidential election, Trump, 

even to this very day, claimed that he won, and that democrats 

stole his election. Despite approximately 60 court cases deciding 

there wasn’t sufficient instances of widespread fraud, Trump 

remains delusional. He continuously alleges having lost 

because of fraudulent voting. 

Trump’s delusional sequels include proclaiming he’s the 

chosen one and compared his situation to that of Jesus Christ 

and Nelson Mandela. Unbelievably, he’s seeking approval from 

SCOTUS to grant him complete immunity from any crimes he 

might chose to commit, including assassinating political 

opponent’s or disobedient Supreme Court Judges. 

Further, Trump’s disorganized thinking and belligerent 

behavior revealed during interviews and MAGA rallies could 

result with the average person being Bakerized” or even 

arrested. Somehow, as a former president he’s shrouded in 

an impregnable shield. Florida’s Baker Act allows people to 

be involuntarily civilly committed if they’re thought to be a 

danger to themselves or others due to exhibited mental health 

issues. 

Yes, Abraham Lincoln and Winston Churchill both suffered 

with depression. However, neither of them attempted to 

overthrow their own government, suggested that bleach was 

a cure for COVID 19, labeled Confederate/Nazis solders as 

patriots or raped a woman. What makes Trump so special? 

Is he the Republicans’ and white supremacists’ last hope for 

dismantling democracy? 

Bandy Lee, an assistant professor of clinical psychiatry at 

Yale noted that Trump’s oral predatory manipulation behavior 

had resembled tactics used by imprisoned gang leaders and 

violent offenders. Remember, Trump once encouraged police 

officers to rough-up individuals arrested because he’d hire 

lawyers to defend them. 


US Complicity in Israel’s War 

Crimes Takes Another Step 

By Mel Gurtov 

The Biden administration 

continues to act contrary to 

logic and humane values in 

response to Israel’s war policies. 

Despite overwhelming evidence 

of Israel’s war crimes and acts 

that constitute genocide, the 

administration plies the rightwing 

Israeli government with more weapons. The latest arms 

package being prepared by the administration will reportedly 

be the largest since the Oct. 7 Hamas attack. Valued at around 

$18 billion, it will include 50 F-15 fighter jets and precisionguided 

munitions kits as well as more 2000- and 500-pound 

bombs. 

Many critics, including some within the administration 

itself, have pointed with alarm to the obvious contradiction 

in US policy between supporting negotiations on a cease-fire 

and hostage release on one hand, and continuing to ship nondefensive 

weapons to Israel on the other. The contradiction 

applies not just to the immediate situation in Israel but also to 

overall US policy on the abuse of military aid—NSM 20—which 

specifies that arms recipients must adhere to international 

and American law. Israel, while giving assurances about 

its use of US weapons, has violated US policy guidelines in 

numerous ways—for instance, bombing hospitals and other 

civilian targets with US bombs, and using US-supplied white 

phosphorus munitions in densely populated areas of Gaza. 

Such violations make the US complicit in Israel’s war 

crimes and genocide, which Oxfam and Human Rights Watch 

documented in a joint letter submitted to the administration 

March 13. Just recently, the UN Special Rapporteur on 

Palestinian rights condemned Israel’s “genocide” in Gaza and 

proposed an arms embargo on Israel. If the Biden administration 


Deeply Rooted 


The Westside Gazette, under the Management of BI-ADs, Inc., reserves 

the right to publish Views and Opinions by Contributing Writers that 

may not necessarily reflect those of the Staff and Management of 

The Westside Gazette Newspaper and are solely the product of the 

responsible individual(s) who submit comments published in this 

newspaper. 

The Gantt Report 

Political Pavlov’s Dogs 

By Lucius Gantt 

The last two dogs I owned were African 

Mastiffs. Tambo and Zulu were trained 

guard dogs. They were “work dogs”, not pets 

that I would kiss in the mouth every day or 

allow the dogs to sleep with me in my bed. 

They both weighed about 200 pounds, and 

they had a large kennel and a large doghouse 

where they could stand up and walk 

around in. 

Whenever; I went to feed them, I called 

their names, and they ran to me. Soon, they came when I called 

them whether it was mealtime or not. 

They were just like Pavlov’s dogs, who came to Pavlov every 

time he rang a bell. 

White Democratic political advisors think African American 

voters are political Pavlov dogs, so to speak. They believe all 

that needs to be done is to tell Blacks there is an election in 

November, and Black voters will run to the polls and vote Democratic 

like dogs that run to a bowl of dog food. 

It’s sad to say but history has proven that they are somewhat 

correct. 

The problem is Blacks turned out to vote for Barack Obama 

in extraordinary numbers. But Black voter turnout in post- 

Obama elections has been steadily declining. 

Don’t take my word for it. Voting records are public information 

and in most federal, state, and local elections after Obama, 

if 35% of registered Black voters turn out to vote Democrats 

consider it a “landslide” amount and that is ridiculous! 

When Stacey Abrams ran for Georgia governor, SCLC and 

NAACP people were paid to register voters. They went to several 

predominately Black colleges and predominately Black 

cities in the Peach State and registered around a million new 

qualified voters but at least 400,000 new registered voters 

didn’t even vote in the gubernatorial election! 

The Chairman of the Georgia Democratic Party was told political 

professionals lived in Georgia. When Chairman Nikema 

Williams, now sitting in the late Civil Rights Champion John 

Lewis’ Congressional seat told me, “All of the Party money is 

going to white people”, we need Blacks to volunteer”! 

Of course, I never spoke to her again. 

White Democratic political consultants target substantial dollars 

to try and influence white men without a college degree to 

vote for Joe Biden and against Donald Trump. 

Good luck with that. Gantt Report readers know that MAGA 

Democrats have no problems voting for wannabe dictators and 

authoritarians. Political wolves wear sheep clothing and have 

no problem voting for candidates who call for Blacks to reside 

in a political doghouse! 

Democrats are quick to say I love Martin Luther King and I 

ride in the HBCU homecoming parade, but Democratic candidates, 

Democratic National Committees, and local Democratic 

bodies want your votes but don’t want to even spend money 

contributed by Blacks to Democrats to Black vendors and professionals. 


Dread Or Despair In The 2024 

Elections – Or Something Different? 

By Rivera Sun 

It’s four in the morning and my heart is 

in my throat again. 

The presidential election in November 

fills me with nothing but dread and despair. 

On the one hand, we’re facing a candidate 

who spews hatred, advocates violence, and 

peddles sneakers and bibles while facing 

astronomical legal costs for his fraud, lies, 

sexual assaults and lawbreaking. One the 

other hand, we’re told that to stop him, we have to vote for a 

president who keeps sending weapons and billions of dollars 

to a genocidal nation that has killed more than 33,000 people 

(including more than 12,000 children) since October. 

This is not an election to sit out, either. 

The next four years are pivotal, not only for the United 

States, but for the fate of the entire world. The person in the 

Oval Office will have to deal with the climate crisis, rising 

inflation and economic instability, tensions with Russia and 

China, ongoing militarism and conflicts worldwide, the critical 

need to overhaul the healthcare system, the immigration 

conflict, the AI apocalypse, mass shootings and gun violence, 

the erosion of democracy, and the hate-based violence of certain 

sectors of our populace. (To name just a few of the urgent crises 

we face.) 

One thing is certain: business as usual will not save us. 

Neither reactionary fascism nor neoliberal authoritarianism 

offer any real solutions to these times. In my view, neither 

candidate truly represents the urgent needs of our people. Nor 

do they share the same longings, hopes, and visions that we 

hold for our future. 

We need a bold, visionary, undaunted candidate for 

president. One who rejects the politics of hate. One who 

renounces the politics of greed. 

Most of us will never get to vote for such a person. I will. 

I live in Maine, one of the few states with ranked choice 

voting. While most of the nation’s voters are being told to ‘hold 

your nose and vote for the lesser evil’, I will be able to go to the 

polls in November and vote according to my conscience. Then 

I can check a second box for my second choice. If my preferred 

candidate does not win, then my vote goes to the back-up. (And 

sometimes even a third or fourth person after that.) 

I am not naïve. I hold no delusions that my preferred 

candidate is going to win this time around. But the voters of 

Maine will be able to send a loud ‘shot over the bow’ to the 

two-party system. Our first choices are an audible protest 

vote against being forced between two candidates who are not 

measuring up to the demands of the times. 

In November, many of us will be choosing between dread and 

despair. But in December, make a choice for your conscience: 

push your state to adopt ranked choice voting. 

It is a path out of the endless spiral of dread and despair 

that the two-party system has forced us into. It holds promise 

for we, the People, in terms of breaking free of the ‘race to the 

bottom’ of endlessly voting for the lesser evil. No matter how 

you vote this time around, make sure your next choice is to 


The NAREB 

Building Black 

Wealth Blog 

NAREB’S ABCs for 

Buying a Home: The 

Important Steps to 

Owning a Home and 

Building Wealth 

By Sheryl Merritt, MBA, 

CEO/Broker New Legacy 

Realty 

The most effective way 

for African Americans to 

build wealth is through 

homeownership. But so many 

families ask, where do you 

start when you want to buy a 

home? 

The National Association 

of Real Estate Brokers 

(NAREB) broadly provides 

this information so more 

Black families can enjoy the 

benefits of homeownership 

and create intergenerational 

wealth. The journey of 

becoming a homeowner, 

especially for the first time, 

can be both exhilarating 

and daunting. It’s crucial to 

approach this process with 

a well-structured plan. Here 

are a few essential steps every 

first-time homebuyer should 

consider: 

*Prepare for Buying 

Home: Before looking 

at potential homes, it’s 

essential to have a clear 

picture of your financial 

health. This includes 

reviewing your credit 

score, understanding your 

income, and identifying 

your budget for buying a 

home. Here are some tips: 

- A good credit score for 

purchasing a home typically 

falls within the range of 620 

to 850. This range represents 

the FICO credit score system, 

which lenders commonly 

use to assess an individual’s 



Biological 

Fairness? 

By Wim Laven 

I have 

suffered 

from persistent 

fatigue 

in recent 

months. 

Fatigue… 

the Centers 

for Disease 

Control and Prevention 

(CDC) estimate 3.3 million 

Americans suffer from chronic 

fatigue syndrome. It is just 

one example of hundreds of 

unseen disabilities people 

deal with. In my case I’m tired 

all the time; I fear people will 

think I am lazy. 

I have suspected that my 

fatigue has been related to 

long-covid. The CDC says 

about one in five people 

who’ve had COVID (or about 

7.5 percent of the total 

adult population in the US) 

experience symptoms such 

as constant exhaustion for 

more than three months after 

contracting the illness. 

In diagnostic evaluations 

my doctor ordered labs 

to check my testosterone 

levels, and they are low— 

comparable to what a man 

25 years older than me would 

have. Now, forgetting the 

challenges with healthcare 

and insurance coverage in the 


thewestsidegazette.com


BUSINESS 


Gallup finds Black generational divide on affirmative action 

By Charlene Crowell 

UNITY IN THE 

COMMUNITY DIRECTORY 

Cell: 754-234-4485 

Office: 954-733-7700 ext. 111 

Fax: 954-731-0333 

Kenneth R. Thurston 

REALTOR, CPM, CAM 

4360 W. Oakland Park Blvd Email: ken@acclaimcares.com 

Lauderdale Lakes, FL 33313 

Web: www.acclaimcares.com 

Each spring, many aspiring students and their families 

begin receiving college acceptance letters and offers of financial 

aid packages. This year’s college decisions will add yet another 

consideration: the effects of a 2023 Supreme Court, 6-3 ruling 

that ended the use of affirmative action. No longer can race 

be considered as one of many other factors to reach college 

admissions decisions. 

Writing for the majority, Chief Justice John Roberts said 

in part, “In these cases we consider whether the admissions 

systems used by Harvard College and the University of North 

Carolina, two of the oldest institutions of higher learning in the 

United States, are lawful under the Equal Protection Clause 

of the Fourteenth Amendment. These cases involve whether 

a university may make admissions decisions that turn on an 

applicant’s race.” 

“[T]he Harvard and UNC admissions programs cannot be 

reconciled with the guarantees of the Equal Protection Clause,” 

continued the Chief Justice. “Both programs lack sufficiently 

focused and measurable objectives warranting the use of race, 

unavoidably employ race in a negative manner, involve racial 

stereotyping, and lack meaningful end points. We have never 

permitted admissions programs to work in that way, and we 

will not do so today.” 

A strongly-worded dissenting opinion by Justice Sonia 

Sotomayor, challenged the majority, asserting that affirmative 

action remains both viable and necessary. 

“This limited use of race has helped equalize educational 

opportunities for all students of every race and background 

and has improved racial diversity on college campuses,” wrote 

Justice Sotomayor. “Although progress has been slow and 

imperfect, race-conscious college admissions policies have 

advanced the Constitution’s guarantee of equality and have 

promoted Brown’s vision of a Nation with more inclusive 

schools.” 

“The Court subverts the constitutional guarantee of 

equal protection by further entrenching racial inequality in 

education, the very foundation of our democratic government 

and pluralistic society. Because the Court’s opinion is not 

grounded in law or fact and contravenes the vision of equality 

embodied in the Fourteenth Amendment, I dissent,” concluded 

Sotomayor. 

In the aftermath of this consequential decision, as many as 

30 states have now either filed or enacted new laws against 

teaching Black history or ‘other divisive concepts’, as well as 

defunding or outright ending diversity, equity and inclusion 

initiative. Counted among these states are Alabama, Florida, 

and Texas where multi-million Black residents are directly 

affected. 

While many might presume widespread unity in Black 

America over the Supreme Court ruling, a survey analysis 

by Gallup’s Center on Black Voices published earlier this 

year shows a distinct and disturbing generational divide on 

affirmative action. Survey respondents were asked about the 

effect the affirmative decision may have in four specific areas: 

1. Higher education in general; 

2. Educational opportunities for Blacks; 

3. The ability of people of one’s own race/ethnicity to attend 

college; and 

4. Diversity of college campuses. 

Numerically, 56 percent of Black adults aged 40 and older 

mostly view the decision negatively. But among younger Black 

adults, aged 18 to 39, the affirmative action reversal is viewed 

positively by 62 percent. Moreover, many younger Blacks 

anticipated the decision will have no impact at all on their 

educations and futures. 

Another new and related survey reflects a growing political 

divide. 

Jointly released by the Associated Press and the University 

of Chicago’s National Opinion Research Center (NORC), the 

survey asked the question, “Do you think each of the following 

is doing a good job or a bad job or Continue reading online at: 


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CHURCH DIRECTORY 

First Baptist Church Piney Grove, Inc. 

4699 West Oakland Park Blvd., Lauderdale Lakes, FL 33313 

(954) 735-1500 - Fax (954) 735-1999 

CHURCH OFFICE HOURS 

Monday - Friday 9:00 AM - 4:00 PM 

Church Website: www.fbcpineygrove.org 

Dr. Ezra Tillman, Jr. Senior Pastor 

WORSHIP SERVICES 

Sunday ..... 8:00 AM & 11:00 AM In Person Virtual 

Sunday School.......9:30 AM In Person 

Bible Study on Wednesday.......11:30 AM & 7:00 PM In Person & Virtual 

"Winning the World for Jesus" 

Harris Chapel Church, Inc. 

Rev. Stanley Melek, M.Div 

e-mail: harrischapelinc@gmail.com 

2351 N.W. 26th Street 

Oakland Park, Florida 33311 

Church Telephone: (954) 731-0520 

SERVICES 

Sunday Worship........................10:30 AM 

Church School................................................9:00 AM 

Wednesday (Bible Study).........11:00 AM to 7:00 PM 

Living Waters Christian Fellowship 

Meeting at Central Charter School Building #5 

4515 N. St. Rd. 7 (US 441) 

(954) 295-6894 

SUNDAY SERVICE: 10 AM 

Iwcf2019@gmail.com (Church) 

lerrub13@gamil.com (Pastor) 

Rev. Anthony & Virgina Burrell 

Jesus said, ‘‘let anyone who is thristy come to Me and drink.” (John 7:37) 

Mount Hermon A.M.E. Church 

Reverend Henry E. Green, III, Pastor 

401 N.W. 7th Terrace, Fort Lauderdale, FL 33311 

Phone: (954) 463-6309 Fax: (954) 522-4113 

Office Hours: Monday - Thursday 10:00 AM to 5:00 PM 

Email info@mthermonftl.com 

SUNDAY CHURCH SERVICES 

Worship Service....................................9:00 AM 

In person/www.mounthermonftl.or/YouTube Live/FaceBook 

Church School.............................9:30 AM 

BIBLE STUDY: Wednesday........................10:00 AM 

Bible Study Wednesday ...............7:00 PM via Zoom 

Meeting ID: 826 2716 8390 access code 55568988# 

Daily Prayer Line.............................6:00 AM 

(716) 427-1407 Access Code 296233# 

(712) 432-1500 Access Code 296233# 

New Mount Olive Baptist Church 

Dr. Marcus D. Davidson, Senior Pastor 

400 N.W. 9th Avenue Fort Lauderdale, FL 33311 

Office (954) 463-5126 - Fax: (954) 525-9454 

CHURCH OFFICE HOURS 

Monday- Friday 8:00 AM - 4:00 PM 

WORSHIP SERVICES & BIBLE STUDY 

Sunday In Person ..............8:00 AM 

Sunday Virtual..................9:00 AM 

Sunday School....................9:30 AM 

Wednesday Encountering Truth 

Noonday Bible Study..............12:00 PM to 12:30 PM 

Where the Kingdom of God is Increased through: 

Fellowship, Leaership, Owenership and Worship 

Fellowship, Ledership, Ownership and Worship 

As we F.L.O.W. To Greatness! 

Mount Nebo Missionary Baptist Church 

2551 N.W. 22nd St., Fort Lauderdale, FL 33311 

P.O. Box 122256, Fort Lauderdale, FL 33312 

(954) 733-3285 - Fax: (954) 733-9231 

Email: mountnebobaptist@bellsouth.net 

Website: www.mountnebobaptist.org 

WORSHIP SERVICES & BIBLE STUDY 

(In Person) 

Sunday..........................10:00 A.M. 

Sunday School ....................8:30 A.M. 

Tuesday Night Bible Study..............7:00 P.M. 

“Reaching Our Wrold One Persons At A Time” 

Mt. Zion Missionary Baptist Church 

Dr. James B. Darling, Jr., Pastor/Teacher 

1161 NW 29th Terrace; Fort Lauderdale, FL 33311 

P.O. Box 5545; Fort Lauderdale, FL 33310 

(954) 581-0455 - (FAX) 581-4350 

mzbc2011@gmail.com - www.mtzionmbc1161.com 

Sunday School...................................................9:00 A.M. 

Sunday Worship Service..................................10:15 A.M. 

Communion Service (1st Sunday)................10:15 A.M. 

Wednesday Night Prayer Service....................6:30 P.M. 

Wednesday Night Bible Study.............................7:00 P.M. 

New Birth Baptist Church 

Catheral of Faith International 

Bishop Victor T. Curry, M. Min., D. Div. Senior Pastor/Teacher 

ORDER OF SERVICES 

Sunday Worship.............................9:30 AM 

Sunday School ..............................8:30 AM 

Tuesday Bible Study...................7:00 PM 

Wednsday Bible Study..................10:30 AM 

(305) 685-3700 (0) * (305) 685-0705 (f) 

www.nbbcmiami.org 

Deeply Rooted 

New Creation Baptist Church In Christ 

r.curry7me@gmail.com 

Drive-Up Sunday Worship - 10 AM 

4001 North Dixie Hwy. 

Deerfield Beach, FL 33064 

(954) 943-9116 

newcreationbcic@gmail.com 

Williams Memorial CME Church 

644-646 N.W. 13th Terrace 

Fort Lauderdale, Florida 33311 

Office: (954) 462-8222. Email: inf@wmsfl.org 

Reverend Errol Darville, Pastor 

E-mail: erroldarville@gmail.com 

WORSHIP SERVICES and BIBLE STUDY 

In person, Zoom; 646-558-8636 ID: 954-462-8222, Stream: Facebook Live @ WMCMECHURCH 

Sunday Church School..................... 9:00 AM 

Sunday Worship Service ................10:00 AM 

Tuesday Prayer Meeting...............7:00 PM 

Tuesday Bibke Study................7:30 PM 

"Celebrating over 100 years of SERVICES" 

St. Ruth Missionsary Baptist Church 

145 NW 5th Avenue 

Dania Beach, FL 33004 

(954) 922-2529 

WORSHIP SERVICES 

Wednesday (NOON DAY PRAYER.......................12- 1 PM 

Sunday Worship Service ...................................10:00 AM 

Website: www.struthmbc.org 

"Celebrating 115 Years of Service" 

Victory Baptist Church Independent 

Pastor Keith Cunningham 

2241 Davie Blvd., Fort Lauderdale, FL 33312 

Church: (954) 284-9413 

Sunday School .................................................9:45 AM 

Worship Service Sunday Morning..................................11:00 AM 

Sunday Evening Service.........................................6:00 PM 

Bible Study...................................................7:30 PM 

Wednesday Evening Bible Study & Prayer ........................7:00 PM 

Saturday Morning Soul Winning/Visitation..............10:00 AM 

Men’s Fellowship (Every 2nd & last Tuesdays)................6:00 PM 

Ladies Fellowship (the last Saturday of each month)..........................5:00 PM 

Youth Fellowship (Every Friday)...............6:30 PM 

Discover GOD Let Us Help You Find The Way To Jesus Christ 

We STRIVE to PROVIDER Ministries that matter Today to Whole Body of Christ, 

not only the Believers, but also for those stranded on the “Jericho Road”! 

“Celebrating over 85 Years of FAITH and FAVOR! 

Come to the WILL.....We’ll show You the WAY: Jesus the Christ” 

Shaw Temple A.M.E. Zion Church 

Rev. Dr. William Calvin Haralson, Pastor 

522 N.W. 9th Avenue, Fort Lauderdale, FL 33311 

Church: (954) 647-8254 

Email: AMEZ522@Yahoo.com 

SERVICES 

Sunday School.................................................10:15 AM 

Sunday Morning Worship.................................11:00 AM 

Bible Study.....................................................7:30 PM 

“Reaching beyond the four walls touching lives, touching communities”. 

Jesus Christ Ministry Of Faith, Inc. 

Jesus Loves You 

Join Us Sundays 

9 AM 

477 NW 27 Avenue 


JCMOFINC@gmail.com 

The New Beginning Embassy of Praise 

The Most Reverend John H. Taylor, Bishop, Sr. Pastor 

Dr. ML Taylor, Executive Pastor 

4035 SW 18th Street, West Park, FL 33023 

Sunday Worship Service - 11:00 a.m. 

Conference Line - 848-220-3300 ID: 33023 

Bible Study - Tuesdays - 7:30 p.m. 

Noonday Prayer - Wednesdays- 12:00 noon 

Come Worship With Us For Your New Begnning! 

Romans 10:13 

Bible Trivia 

‘Test Your Bible Knowledge' 

James A. Washington, 73, a 

champion of Black press and 

journalism, passes away 

James Washington, 

the president and general 

manager of The Atlanta 

Voice, a longtime advocate 

of the Black press, and the 

2019 National Association 

of Black Journalist Legacy 

Award winner passed away 

surrounded by family and 

loved ones on Tuesday, April 

2, 2024. 

He was 73. 

For over four decades 

Washington had been 

involved in nearly every 

level of the communications 

field. From his time as the 

publisher of The Dallas 

Weekly, a Black-owned and 

operated publication, to his 

work as the public relations 

manager for the Dallas Ballet, 

Washington had always 

been a strong representation 

of Black excellence and 

intelligence. 

Washington has twice 

Cont'd on Page 9 


1. During Jesus crucifixion why was He administered vinegar mingled 

with gall to drink? 

2. Embalming was an African custom. Who did Joseph have embalm? 

3. True or false: King Uzziah invented machines for his army for 

war. 

4. In the Christian Faith Lent is a 40 day period commemorating 

Jesus fasting in the desert. Each year Lent starts on kAsh Wednesday. 

What is Ash Wednesday? 

5. Complete the following verse: ‘And again I say unto you, It is 

easier for a camel to go through…………… 

6. Complete the following verse: ‘Thou wilt keep him in perfect 

peace, whose mind……………. 

7. What is the shortest verse in the Bible? 

8. What is the longest chapter in the Bible? 

** Bible history*** The fourth plague, the swarming flies were the 

‘dog-fly’. They were blood sucking flies that were known to inflict 

painful bites. 

Answers – 1) Matthew 27:34 painkiller; 2) Genesis 50: 1-3; 3) 

2nd Chronicles 26:15; 4) When a priest places ashes on the believer’s 

forehead in the shape of a cross; 5) Matthew 19:24; 6) 

Isaiah 26:3; 7) John 11:35; 8) Psalm 119 

By Donnell Suggs 

James Washington, the 

president and general 

manager of The Atlanta 

Voice, a longtime advocate 

of the Black press, and the 

2019 National Association 

of Black Journalist Legacy 

Award winner passed away 

surrounded by family and 

loved ones on Tuesday, 

April 2 2024. Photo Provided 

by The Atlanta Voice 

Bethlehem Missionary Baptist Church 

869 N.W. 27th Ave 

Fort Lauderdale, Fl 33311 

954-581-9065 

Dr. James Ray, Pastor Emeritus (Deceased) Lady Betty Ray 

Pastor Search Announcement & Qualifications 

Bethlehem Missionary Baptist Church has been in existence for 46 

years Currently. the active membership is approximately 101 and 

there are 7 ministries. The church is prayfully seeking a full-time 

Baptist pastor who is called by God and equipped to effectively 

preach and teach the Word of God. The candidate must be able to 

fulfill the spiritual needs of the congregation through visitations, 

prayer, conducting weddings, funerals, and administering ordinances 

of the church. The candidate must also possess the biblical 

and spiritual qualities as outlined in Timothy 3:1-7 and Titus 1:S- 

9. 

Pastor Qualifications: 

• Be a licensed and ordained minister in the Baptist faith. 

• Be a visionary with sound judgment and discernment. 

• Have a minimum of five years (preferred) of pastoral experience. 

• Have at least a bachelor's degree from an accredited College/ 

University and Theological Seminary training (preferred). 

• Possess effective communication skills (written and oral). 

• Growth oriented and pastoral care capability. 

• Demonstrate financial awareness and responsibility. 

• Committed to continuing education and development, 

• Demonstrate ability to work effectively with a congregation 

across all ages and gender. 

• Possess effective administration skills and able to organlze 

and lead staff. 

• Three letters of recommendation (clergy, layperson, and personal). 

• Copies of license, ordination, transcripts of educational accomplishments. 

Application Submission Instructions: 

The following must be submitted by: 05/15/2024. 

> Current Resume 

> Copy of license, ordination certificate, degrees, and any other 

certificates. 

> CD or DVD of recent sermons and Bible teachings, i.e. Bible 

study 

> Current background check 

How to Submit the Application: 

* Mailing address and/or Email address Mailing address: 

* Bethlehem Missionary Baptist Church 

869 N.W. 27th Ave 

Fort Lauderdetee Fl 33311 

C/O Deacon Willie Thomas, Chairman of Deacons 

Email address: bethlehempastorialcommittee@gmail.com 

***INCOMPLETE AND/OR LATE APPLICATIONS WILL NOT BE 

CONSIDERED***


James A. Washington, 73, passed away: A champion cont’d from Page 8 

served on the Dallas Black 

Chamber of Commerce board, 

the Dallas Arboretum, the 

United Way of Metropolitan 

Dallas, and the National 

Newspaper Publishers 

Association. He is a former trichair 

of Dallas’ Commission 

on Race Relations and the 

Dallas Together Forum. He is 

also a former member of the 

Federal Reserve Bank’s Small 

Business and Agriculture 

Advisory Committee in Dallas. 

Jim was named “Man of the 

Year” in 1986 by the Dallas 

Metropolitan Club of Negro 

Business and Professional 

Women. Since then, he has 

been honored for outstanding 

community service by 

Henry Louis Gates Jr. New PBS Series 

Explores The Gospel Of The Black Church 

By Shaun White and 

Quintessa Williams 

(Source HBCU News): 

From the Blues to Hip- 

Hop, African Americans have 

been the driving force of sonic 

innovation for over a century. 

However, while musical 

styles come and go, —there 

is one sound that has been a 

constant source of strength, 

courage, and wisdom. It is a 

message that resounds from 

the pulpit to the choir lofts on 

any given Sunday — one of 

good news in bad times. 

And that is the Gospel. 

Henry Louis Gates Jr’s., 

new four-part documentary 

series, GOSPEL digs deep 

into the origin story of Black 

gospel music that blended 

the sacred spirituals with the 

blues tradition and soared to 

new heights during the Great 

Migration. 

For generations, gospel 

and preaching have been 

the foundation of the Black 

religious experience. From 

Jarena Lee to Shirley Caesar 

and C.L. Franklin to T.D 

Jakes, African American 

preachers have harnessed 

the language and lessons 

of the Hebrew Bible 

with astounding creativity 

to convey the complexity 

and beauty of the African 

American odyssey in the 

United States. 

In the past century, 

gospel music has provided 

a soundtrack of healing 

and inspiration to those at 

the front lines of protest 

and change. The Sunday 

service at a Black church is 

a powerful synergy of the 

word and music — you cannot 

have one without the other. 

By giving equal focus to the 

history of Black religious 

music and preaching, the 

GOSPEL documentary series 

shows how deeply these 

dynamic oral traditions have 

shaped American popular 

culture and have reflected the 

abiding faith of a people. 

Since the time of the sorrow 

songs, Black sacred music was 

a cathartic and confidential 

way to communicate the 

anger and frustration of living 

as a Black person in America. 

From history to the 21st 

century, gospel continues to 

evolve and remains a source 

of cultural affirmation and 

sustenance, bringing an 

enduring tradition into the 

future. 

The series will examine 

preaching styles evolvement 

organizations such as Alpha 

Kappa Alpha Sorority, The 

Links, Inc., United Way, 

Dallas Independent School 

District, Martin Luther King 

Jr. Community Center, Daniel 

“Chappie” James Learning 

Center, the NAACP, KKDA, 

and KRLD radio stations, 

Dallas Black Dance Theatre, 

Dallas Museum of Arts, and 

the State Fair of Texas. 

Washington earned his 

bachelor’s degree in English 

and Instructional Media from 

Historically Black College 

and University, Southern 

University. He also earned a 

master’s degree in journalism 

from the University of 

Wisconsin-Madison. 

from the musical “whoopers,” 

to the slick TV-ready lectures 

of megachurch pastors. In 

addition, the documentary 

explores how class, gender, 

cultural innovations and 

consumer technologies 

— such as records, radio, 

television and the internet 

— shaped the development of 

Black preaching and gospel 

over the centuries. 

The story is informed by 

a host of leading artists and 

performers, including 

Jekalyn Carr, Twinkie 

Clark, Donald Lawrence and 

James C. Boyd Funeral Home, Inc. 

2324 Sistrunk Boulevard 

Fort Lauderdale, Florida 33311 

(954) 584-3940 

Contact – Mrs. Avis Boyd-Gaines, Owner 

President, Licensed Funeral Director & Embalmer 

James C. Boyd Funeral 

Home, Inc. 

2324 Sistrunk Boulevard 

Fort Lauderdale, Florida 

33311 

(954) 584-3940 

Mrs. Avis Boyd-Gaines, 

Owner 

Funeral Director and 

Embalmer 

Mrs. Alexis Gainer-Sullivan, 

Funeral Director 

and Embalmer - Intern 

Position 

Full-Time Operations Administrative Assistant – Apply within 

Salary 

$12.00 - $15.00/hour (salary can be increased base upon performance) 

– one week paid vacation 

Schedule 

Hours per week (40) - 10:00 am – 5:00 pm 

An author, Washington 

published his book, Spiritually 

Speaking, Reflections For and 

From a New Christian, in 

2019. 

Washington is survived 

by his wife, The Atlanta 

Voice publisher Janis Ware, 

his children, daughter 

Elena Bonifay (husband 

David Bonifay) and son 

Patrick Washington (wife 

Jessica Washington), his 

grandchildren James Spencer 

Emanuel Washington, 

Penelope Elena Jimenez 

Washington, and William 

Emmanuel Edward Austin 

Bonifay, and his nieces and 

nephews. 

Job Description 

This full-time position will provide administrative and operational 

support to the Funeral Service Team. Primary responsibilities 

include, preparation of funeral service administration documents, 

production of funeral service printed materials and additional administrative, 

clerical and customer service duties. 

Primary Responsibilities: 

- Prepare, monitor and maintain family case files 

- Type funeral service documents to include obituaries, 

death certificates, veterans cemetery requests and social security 

notification 

- Design printed memorial tribute materials for funeral services 

and ceremonies 

- Scan and process photographs 

- Prepare letters, certificates and other written correspondence 

- Answer telephones and greet guests Requirements: 

- The ideal candidate must possess; excellent verbal and 

written communications skills; strong time management skills and 

multi-tasking abilities; exceptional computer literacy: Microsoft 

Office and data-entry, (additional Microsoft Publisher, Adobe Photoshop 

and graphic design experience preferred) and typing skills 

of 50 Words Per Minute. 

- In addition, the ideal candidate need to encompass and 

value the following personal and professional attributes: Confidentiality, 

Accuracy, Adaptability, Flexibility, Teamwork, Professionalism, 

Initiative, Dependability, and Honesty. 

Deeply Rooted 

Dionne Warwick and Notable 

preachers and theologians 

such as Bishop Yvette A. 

Flunder, Rev. Frederick D. 

Haynes III, Rev. Otis Moss 

III and U.S. Senator Rev. 

Raphael G. Warnock. 

Through interviews, 

personal reflections and 

dynamic live performances, 

viewers will be immersed 

in the evolution of these 

uniquely African American 

art forms, learning the story 

of how African Americans 

found their voice and learned 

to sing in a strange land. 

A Good Sheperd 

Funeral Home Services 

McWhite’s Funeral 

Home Services 

Roy Mizell & Kurtz 



VIEW OBITUARIES ONLINE AT 


****************************** 

Acknowledgments/ Announcements: 

In Memoriam * Death Notices * Happy Birthdays 

Card of Thanks* Remembrances 

******************************************************************* 

HAVE YOUR CHURCH ANNOUNCEMENTS PLACED ON THIS PAGE (954) 525-1489 

Rosetta 

Frazier 

Funeral 

Services will 

be held April 

12th at Event 

Center. 

DeAndre “YG 

Andre” Major 

Funeral 

Services 

were held April 

6 at 

Grissett 

Church. 

Ezra 

Mobley 

Funeral 

Services 

will be held 

April 13 at 

Annie Laura 

Sheppard Smith 

Chapel. 

Obituaries 

Death and Funeral Notices 

James C. Boyd 


Alphonsa 

Coley – 79 

Funeral 

Services 

were held 

April 6 

at Mt. 

Zion AME 

Church with Rev. Shedric 

McGauley, Jr. officiating. 

Mary Francis 

Gibbs 

– 75 

Funeral 

Services 

were held 

April 6 at 

Community 

Church of God with Pastor 

Jeffrey Compere officiating. 

Queen Esther 

Roberts – 70 

Funeral 

Services were 

held April 6 at 

James C. Boyd’s 

Memorial 

Chapel with 

Pastor Patricia 

Flournoy 

officiating. 

Jennings Coleman 

III - 84 

Funeral 

Services 


4th at McWhite’s 

Funeral 

Home. 

Overill L. 

Fletcher - 78 

Funeral Services 


6 at McWhite’s 

Funeral Home 

Chapel. 

Lisa C. 

Nathaniel - 

53 

Funeral 

Services were 

held April 6 

at Church of 

God Pembroke 

Pines. 

Preston 

Plummer, Jr. 

- 70 

Funeral 

Services were 

held 

April 6 at New 

Hope 

Baptist Church. 

Prince Joseph 

Pinkey, Jr. - 

85 

Funeral 

Services were 

held April 

8th at Roy 

Mizell & Kurtz 

Sarah L. 

McGauley- 

Lockett - 91 

Funeral 

Services 

were held 

April 7th 

at Mt. Zion 

AME Church 

with Rev. 

Stanley Edward officiating. 

Grace 

Swaby- 

Smith 

Funeral 

Services 

were held 

April 6 at 

New Mount 

Olive Baptist 

Church. 

De Idra L. 

“Dee Dee” 

Watson – 42 

Funeral were held April 9th 

at St Paul A.M.E. Church with 

Rev. Dr. Robert Jackson, III 

officiating. 

The Lord Is My Shepherd 

A Psalm Of David. 

The LORD is my 

shepherd; 

I shall not want. 

He makes me lie down 

in green pastures. 

He leads me 

beside still waters. 

He restores my soul. 

He leads me in paths of 

righteousness 

for his name’s sake. 

Even though I kwalk 

through the valley of 

lthe shadow of death, 

I will fear no evil, 

for nyou are with me; 

your rod and your staff, 

they comfort me. 

You prepare a table 

before me 

in the presence 

of my enemies; 

you anoint my 

head with oil my cup 

overflows. 

Surely goodness and 

mercy shall follow me 

all the days of my life, 

and I shall well in 

the house of 

the LORD forever.


Deeply Rooted 


Broward County’s Democratic Party Vows to Turn Florida Blue 

By Kaysia Earley 

Broward County’s 

Democratic party sought to 

reignite the fire to ensure the 

message to ‘Turn Florida Blue’ 

spreads like wildfire. This 

was the common theme at the 

7 th Annual Obama Roosevelt 

Gala held on March 23, 2024. 

The annual fundraiser gala 

was held at the Broward 

Convention Center and hosted 

by Richard “Rick” Hoye, 

Broward County’s Democratic 

Party chair. Over 400 people 

attended and raised over 

$200,000, Hoye proclaimed. 

Hoye urged attendees to 

make it a priority to mobilize 

voters and spread the word 

about Democratic nominees. 

He noted a dire concern with 

low re-enrollment for mailin-ballots 

and urged the 

party to help spread the word 

because there is strength in 

numbers. Recent changes 

to the voters’ mail-in ballot 

requests cancelled previous 

registrations due to Florida’s 

new voting restrictions. This 

new law championed by 

Governor Ron DeSantis also 

included ID requirements and 

ballot box limits, making it 

harder to vote by mail. The 

previous law allowed Florida 

voters to automatically 

receive a mail-in ballot for 

every election for up to four 

years. The new measure 

cancelled nearly all the 

standing requests on file at 

the end of 2022. Additionally, 

voters can only request to 

automatically receive a mailin 

ballot for up to two years. 

To request a vote-by-mail 

ballot, a voter may make a 

request by signed writing, in 

person, or by phone to their 

local Supervisor of Elections’ 

office. The written request 

must include the voter’s 

name, date of birth, address 

(A signed written request 

is required if the address is 

different that the address on 

file. An exception exists for 

absent uniformed service voter 

or an overseas voter seeking a 

vote-by-mail ballot.), Florida 

driver license or identification 

card, or last four digits of the 

voter’s social security number, 

and signature (if the request 

is written). Additional 

information to re-enroll may 

be found at BrowardVotes. 

gov. 

Notable Democratic 

candidates in attendance 

included Stanley Campbell 

and Rod Joseph, who are 

running against Rick Scott 

for U.S. Senate. Campbell 

is a rocket scientist, navy 

pilot, and golf course owner. 

His campaign is gaining 

visibility, although it has been 

reported Debbie Mucarsel- 

Powell, a former one-term 

congresswoman from Miami 

is favored as the Democratic 

nominee. “Mr. Campbell’s 

Miramar Commissioner Maxwell B. Chamber and Kaysia 

M. Earley. Esq. 

personal story alone makes him one of the most compelling, 

formidable potential U.S. Senate candidates in the country,” 

said Kevin Cate, a top Florida Democratic strategist. “If he’s able 

to compliment that with good fundraising 

and organizing, all of the sudden Democrats 

might actually have a chance to take down 

Rick Scott.” Other Democrats vying for 

the U.S. Senate nomination include, Matt 

Boswell, progressive activist , Rod Joseph, 

consultant and Purple Heart recipient , 

Bernard Korn, realtor and perennial 

candidate , Brian Rush, former state 

representative, and Matthew Sanscrainte, 

hospitality management consultant. 

Former Broward County state Sen. Perry 

Thurston Jr. and Dwight Forrest, both 

vying for the Broward County’s first elected 

Tax Collector, were also in attendance. 

Abbey Ajayi, who is also running for the 

position credits her 30 years of experience 

running the Tax Collector’s Office as the 

reason she is the most qualified candidate 

for the position. Other attendees included 

Kaysia M. Earley, Esq., attorney and 

Florida Black Caucus Conference 

former Broward judicial candidate, Dr. Barbara Sharief, 

former Mayor of Broward, Harold F. Pryor running for reelection 

for Broward State Attorney, Joshua Simmons, running 

for re-election as Coral Springs City Commissioner, Maxwell 

B. Chambers, Vice Mayor of Miramar, Krystal Patterson, 

candidate for Tamarac Commissioner who’s running against 

District One Commissioner Elvin Villalobos, Marlon Bolton, 

District One Commissioner who has also drawn a challenger, 

business owner, and President of the Kiwanis Club of Tamarac, 

Horatio Bryan. “Although we are vying for the same seat, 

I am sure I am going to win because residents know I have 

their best interest at heart.” Nikki Fried former agriculture 

commissioner and gubernatorial candidate advised, “the only 

way democracy works is when you have two strong parties 

that can bring people together to make sure we’re working on 

policies that impact the entire state of Florida.” 

U.S. Rep. Debbie Wasserman Schultz of Weston sought to 

energize the party to increase voter turnout and support the 

women’s right to choose. She later announced Senator John 

Fetterman from Pennsylvania, the scheduled keynote speaker, 

unfortunately could not attend due to unforeseen travel issues. 


Broward Health/Miami Jewish Health 


said. “This collaboration demonstrates how two non-profit organizations with 

a shared vision can come together to better our community by serving the 

underserved, frail, elderly population.” 

The Broward PACE Program will be a comprehensive healthcare program and 

provider of coordinated, personalized care and social engagement for older adults 

who qualify for nursing home care but prefer to live independently in their own 

community. The Broward PACE Program offers older adults access to doctors, 

specialists, preventative care, therapy, mental health services, social activities, 

meals and nutrition services, free transportation and more. 

With the PACE model of care, an interdisciplinary team, including a medical 

director, nurse, social worker, therapist, nutritionist and others, meet daily 

to review each participant’s care plan. They know each participant and their 

families, details of their living situations and unique health needs. This allows 

for customized and coordinated care, resulting in improved outcomes, reduced 

hospitalization and increased quality of life. 

Florida PACE Centers at Miami Jewish Health is the oldest and most 

experienced PACE program in Florida with a background exclusively specialized 

in geriatric health and elder care. 

Unity, Strength and Courage at the 2024 Annual Conference of the Florida Black Caucus/LEO 

The City of Hallandale Beach Unveils the “Cloud” – 

A Zero-Emission Electric Bus Fleet to Serve the City 

including two additional stops 

to Walmart and Aventura 

Mall, and larger vehicles to 

better serve the needs of the 

community. The number of 

vehicles in this acquisition 

evokes “Cloud Nine” vibes. 

Four different routes will 



“I was honored to participate and keynote”, said Gordon 

Weeks. 

Staff from City of Hallandale Beach, CRA, Parsons, FDOT and BYD USA 

Submitted by 

Aimee Adler Cooke 

HALLANDALE BEACH, 

FL. --- Recently the City of 

Hallandale Beach launched 

the Cloud, an all-electric bus 

fleet, with a complimentary 

service to the community 

beginning on April 5, 2024. 

This fleet of nine electric 

vehicles is one of the largest 

electric bus fleets owned by 

any municipality in Florida 

and is a testament to the 

City’s commitment to keeping 

progress at the forefront 

and forging a path toward a 

greener tomorrow. 

“The City of Hallandale 

Beach is committed to 

becoming carbon neutral by 

2055, and the Cloud bus fleet 

is just one of many initiatives 

we’re implementing to achieve 

this,” said City Manager, Dr. 

Jeremy Earle. “By embracing 

clean, electric power, we’re 

paving the way for a healthier 

environment and higher 

quality of life standards that 

our residents and visitors can 

be proud of.” 

The Cloud is one piece of 

the City’s planned electric 

transportation system that 

includes e-bikes, electric 

vehicles, and more. The City’s 

police department already 

has 13 all-electric vehicles 

as part of its fleet of service 

vehicles, along with 49 hybrid 

Police Interceptor vehicles, 

the largest in the nation. 

Totaling $5.9 million, 

the Cloud fleet and charging 

infrastructure was made 

possible thanks to a Florida 

Department of Transportation 

(FDOT) grant worth $3.4 

million and a contribution of 

$2.5 million from the City. 

The free Cloud service 

features expanded bus routes,



By Don Valentine 

Retribution for the 

heinous treatment of the 

slaves in the British colony 

of South Carolina arrived 

Sunday morning September 

9th, 1739. South Carolina 

Stono Rebellion 1739 Largest Slave Revolt In The U.S. 

became a state in 1776 after 

the Revolutionary War. 

The online encyclopedia 

Black Past.org chronicled 

the rebellion, “Led by an 

Angolan named Jemmy, a 

band of 20 slaves organized a 

rebellion on the banks of the 

Stono River. After breaking 

into Hutchinson’s store the 

band, now armed with guns, 

called for their liberty. As 

they marched, overseers 

were killed and reluctant 

slaves were forced to join the 

company.” 

The Library of Congress 

recorded, “... historian 

Peter H. Wood writes in the 

Encyclopedia of African- 

American Culture and 

History, ‘the rebels raised 

a standard and headed 

south toward Spanish St. 

Augustine…Along the road 

they gathered Black recruits, 

Tennessee State University Board Disbanded by 

MAGA Loyalists as Assault on DE&I Continues 

Critics argue that TSU’s purported financial mismanagement is a manufactured crisis 

rooted in decades of underinvestment by the state government. They’ve noted that 

it continues a trend by conservatives and the racist MAGA movement to eliminate 

opportunities for Blacks in education, corporate America, and the public sector. 

By Stacy M. Brown, 

NNPA Newswire Senior 

National Correspondent 

@StacyBrownMedia 

Tennessee State 

University (TSU), the state’s 

only public historically college 

and university (HBCU), 

faces a tumultuous future 

as Gov. Bill Lee dissolved 

its board, a move supported 

by racist conservatives and 

MAGA Republicans in the 

Tennessee General Assembly, 

who follow the lead of the 

twice-impeached, four-times 

indicted, alleged sexual 

predator former President 

Donald Trump. Educators 

and others have denounced 

the move as an attack 

on diversity, equity, and 

inclusion (DE&I) and a grave 

setback for higher education. 

Critics argue that 

TSU’s purported financial 

mismanagement is a 

manufactured crisis rooted in 

decades of underinvestment 

by the state government. 

They’ve noted that it continues 

a trend by conservatives and 

the racist MAGA movement 

to eliminate opportunities 

for Blacks in education, 

corporate America, and the 

public sector. 

Gevin Reynolds, a 

former speechwriter for Vice 

President Kamala Harris, 

emphasizes in an op-ed that 

TSU’s financial difficulties 

ICYMI: Congresswomam Wilson Inducted 

into the Miami-Dade Women’s Hall of Fame 

burned houses, and killed 

White opponents, sparing one 

innkeeper who was ‘kind to 

his slaves.’” 

Two events were fortuitous 

for the Stono rebellion. Weeks 

before the event there was a 

catastrophic Malaria outbreak 

in the Carolina colony causing 

general confusion throughout 

are not the result of university 

leadership because a recent 

audit found no evidence of 

fraud or malfeasance. 

Reynolds noted that the 

disbanding of TSU’s board is 

not an isolated incident but 

part of a broader assault on 

DE&I initiatives nationwide. 

Ten states, including 

Tennessee, have enacted 

laws banning DE&I policies 

on college campuses, while 

governors appointing MAGA 

loyalists to university trustee 

positions further undermines 

efforts to promote inclusivity 

and equality. 

Moreover, recent 

legislative actions in 

Tennessee, such as repealing 

police reform measures 

enacted after the killing of 

the colony. A report by George 

Washington University noted, 

“South Carolina residents 

were subjected to fevers every 

summer and fall. Planters 

learned to absent themselves 

from their plantations during 

the seasons of high risk 

and leave their slaves in the 

sickly rice fields…” 

Tyre Nichols, underscore 

a troubling trend of 

undermining local control and 

perpetuating racist agendas. 

The new law preventing local 

governments from restricting 

police officers’ authority 

disregards community efforts 

to address systemic issues 

of police violence and racial 

profiling. 

The actions echo historical 

efforts to suppress Black 

progress, reminiscent of the 

violent backlash against 

gains made during the 

Reconstruction era. President 

Joe Biden warned during an 

appearance in New York last 

month that Trump desires 



The second factor was 

an ill-advised public policy 

that mandated all men in 

the colony attend church 

on Sunday. The specious 

passage of the Security Act by 

the South Carolina Colonial 

Assembly “required all White 

men to carry firearms to 

church on Sunday.” The flaw 

was that plantations all over 

the colony had every available 

gun to prevent an uprising, 

conveniently ensconced at 

a church service. Jemmy 

and the other renegade took 

advantage of that weakness 

to spring into action. 

Sanctuary for the slaves 

was in Florida, then owned by 

Spain, where in exchange for 

joining the Catholic Church 

they would become freedmen. 

The slaves walked about 

10 miles from town, then 

midafternoon they stopped 

to rest, and celebrate their 

freedom. Church had ended 

and groups of mounted White 

planters converged to restore 

order. The slaves either died 

in the gun volley or were later 

hanged for the rebellion. Part 

YOU AND A GUEST ARE INVITED 

TO A SPECIAL ADVANCE SCREENING OF 

President Joe Biden visits Baltimore to assess 

Key Bridge collapse and recovery efforts 

President Joe Biden speaks after taking an aerial tour of damage done during the 

collapse of the Francis Scott Key Bridge in Baltimore. Shown here, from left to right: 

U.S. Rep. Kweisi Mfume (left), Senator Chris Van Hollen (back), Maryland Lt. Gov. 

Aruna Miller, Secretary of Transportation Pete Buttigieg (back), President Joe Biden 

and Maryland Gov. Wes Moore (front, right). (Photo Credit: AFRO Photo / James Fields) 

By Alexis Taylor 

(Source AFRO) 

President Joe Biden 

visited Baltimore on April 

5, reiterating a federal 

commitment to help Maryland 

fully recover from the March 

26 collapse of the Francis Scott 

Key Bridge, reopen the Port of 

Baltimore to full capacity and 

support those affected by the 

accident. 

Biden’s visit included an 

operational briefing where he 

received updates on response 

and recovery efforts and a 

meeting with officials on the 

local, state and federal level. 

The president also met with 

first responders to thank 

them and delivered remarks 

to the press before meeting 

with family members of the 

six victims who died in the 

collapse. 

“The damage is 

devastating, and our hearts 



TUESDAY, APRIL 30 • 7:00 PM • AMC AVENTURA 24 

For your chance to win a complimentary admit-two pass 

to the advance screening, email us at 

ttaylor@thewestsidegazette.com or wgaccts@thewestsidegazette.com 

NO PURCHASE NECESSARY. Passes will be emailed to winners. You must have a pass to attend. Passes are available on a first-come, first-served basis. 

Supplies limited. Employees of all promotional partners and their agencies are not eligible. Void where prohibited. SEATING IS LIMITED, SO ARRIVE EARLY. 

PASS DOES NOT GUARANTEE A SEAT AT THE SCREENING. 

IN THEATERS MAY 3 

www.thefallguymovie.com 

TheFallGuyMovie 

@TheFallGuyMovie 

@TheFallGuyMovie 

#TheFallGuyMovie 

84433_TheFallGuy_WestsideGazette_6.5x10.75.indd 1 

4/1/24 1:55 PM


Deeply Rooted 


Old Dillard Museum Plans 

Centennial Celebration 

My tribute to Jim Washington 

I never called James by his given name, and I felt his kindred 

spirit, so I called him Jim. Jim had a leadership style and quality 

that made him stand out far more than his height and well dress. 

I met James Washington almost 50 years ago. We were 

both young when we came into the association. I never called 

James by his given name, and I felt his kindred spirit, so I 

called him Jim. Jim had a leadership style and quality that 

made him stand out far more than his height and well dress. 

Jim’s ability to use common sense analogy to address and 

bring an understanding to complicated situations made him 

stand out. I remember distinctly when we were engaged in 

trying to understand this digital transformation and how to 

monetize it. Jim used the analogy of a cruise ship with vacant 

rooms to which he referred to as inventory, and we needed to 

sell our inventory. That opened my eyes to the possibilities of 

selling digitally. Not only was Jim a businessman, but he was 

also a very spiritual person, and believe it or not, we shared 

moments of spiritual deepness. I will always remember Jim 

for that. His politeness, mild manner, and seriousness for 

moving the NNPA forward will undoubtedly be missed. 

— Bobby R. Henry, Sr. Chairman 

Lillian E. Small 

(Tenth in a Series) 

We have come a long way to reach this centennial mark. 

Celebrating it is such a great feeling even though we all had 

only a few years to experience our education in the halls of our 

Alma Mater. The indelible marks of the joys we had with our 

teachers, classes, friends, social, and athletic adventure are 

never to be forgotten. These have been the best years of our life. 

FOUR DAYS OF CELEBRATION will be a grand time 

for us all as we begin with our revisit to where it all started – 

all for free. Families, Friends, and all your kins are invited 

to share the love and tighten our bonds for the future of the 

Old Dillard Museum. Mark your calendar - Come with us to 

celebrate. 

“Love Always, Pompano Beach” Returns with City-wide Deals and Discounts 

Signature Site Offers Restaurant, Retail, and Lodging Specials along with Exciting Experiences 

Submitted by Kay Renz 

Get ready to fall in love 

all over again! The City of 

Pompano Beach is excited 

to announce the return of 

the “Love Always, Pompano 

Beach” campaign, featuring 

a dynamic array of deals and 

discounts. The now bigger and 

better City-wide campaign 

offers residents and visitors 

alike a treasure trove of offers 

to experience all Pompano 

Beach has to offer, while 

helping our local businesses 

display their specials. The 

website will showcase enticing 

promotions, providing the 

perfect excuse to indulge in 

a delicious meal, shop for 

unique items, book a relaxing 

staycation, or embark on an 

exciting adventure – all at 

a fantastic value. To claim 

your discount/deal at any of 

the establishments simply 

say, “Love Always Pompano,” 

when ordering or booking. 

Current incentives will be 

valid April 1-August 31, 2024. 

Learn more and find deals at 

LoveAlwaysPompano.com 

“We’re excited to bring 

back ‘Love Always Pompano 

Beach’ as a way to celebrate 

our City’s incredible local 

businesses,” said Earl 

Bosworth, Assistant City 

Manager. “We initially 

launched this program during 

the pandemic, with a focus on 

our CRA District businesses. 

Thanks to the success of 

that initiative, we decided to 

expand the offerings of deals 

and discounts to encompass 

the entire City. This robust 

campaign offers something 

for everyone, whether you’re a 

longtime resident or a visitor 

exploring Pompano Beach for 

the first time.” 

Here’s a taste of what you 

can expect with “Love Always 

Pompano Beach”: 

Savor the Flavor: Tantalize 

your taste buds with special 

dining offers, happy hour 

deals, and exclusive prix-fixe 

menus at Pompano Beach’s 

renowned restaurants 

including Baresco, Beach 

House Pompano, Ceviche 

Time, R&K Country Soulfood, 

Rossitto’s Italian Gourmet 

Market & Eatery and many 

more. 

Unwind and Recharge: 

Relax and rejuvenate 

with special hotel and spa 

packages and staycation 

deals at Pompano Beach’s 

comfortable and luxurious 

accommodations including 

Hampton Inn, Cottages by 

the Sea, Massage Chairs 360, 

Skin Care by Rita and more 

Shops and Services: Explore 

new places to shop and 



Unregulated 

Cannabis Products 

Why They Are More Dangerous 

Than You Think 

YOU AND A GUEST ARE INVITED 

TO A SPECIAL ADVANCE SCREENING OF 

Watch a Conversations on Cannabis 

virtual forum to learn the consequences 

and dangers of using unregulated and 

illegal marijuana in Florida. 

Watch Now 

Follow ‘Conversations on Cannabis’ on 

@MMERIForumRadio 

WEDNESDAY, APRIL 17 • 7:00 PM • AMC AVENTURA 24 

For your chance to win a complimentary admit-two pass 

to the advance screening, email us at 

ttaylor@thewestsidegazette.com or wgaccts@thewestsidegazette.com 

NO PURCHASE NECESSARY. Passes will be emailed to winners. You must have a pass to attend. Passes are available on a first-come, first-served basis. 

Supplies limited. Employees of all promotional partners and their agencies are not eligible. Void where prohibited. SEATING IS LIMITED, SO ARRIVE EARLY. 

PASS DOES NOT GUARANTEE A SEAT AT THE SCREENING. This film is Rated R. Must be 17 years of age or older to receive pass. 

IN THEATERS APRIL 19 

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AbigailMovie 

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85271_Abigail_WestsideGazette_6.5x10.75.indd 1 

3/19/24 10:19 AM


Deeply Rooted 

LIFE LESSONS FROM THE FIRST BLACK CHESS GRANDMASTER 

In two new books, Maurice Ashley reflects on Brooklyn, resilience and inspiring the next generation of players 

By Lamar Salter 

(Source Arts & Leisure): 

CLASSIFIED 

ADVERTISE: 

*LEGAL NOTICES 

*FOR RENT 

*FOR SALE 

*HELP WANTED 


LEGAL NOTICES 

PUBLICATION 

OF BID 

SOLICITATIONS 

Broward County Board of 

County Commissioners is 

soliciting bids for a variety 

of goods and services, 

construction and architectural/ 

engineering services. Interested 

bidders are requested to view 

and download the notifications 

of bid documents via the 

Broward County Purchasing 

website at: www.broward.org/ 

purchasing. 

April 4, 11,18, 25, 2024 

IN THE CIRCUIT 

COURT OF THE 

SEVENTEENTH 

JUDICIAL 

CIRCUIT IN AND FOR 

BROWARD COUNTY, 

FLORIDA 

CASE NO.: FMCE 

23-014901 

JUDGE: AVALOS (38) 

IN RE: THE MARRIAGE OF 

XIMENA MUNOZ BOTINA, 

Petitioner/Former Wife 

and 

ELIBARDO ZAPATA SAA, 

Respondent/Former Husband 

NOTICE OF ACTION 

FOR PETITION 

TO DOMESTICATE 

FOREIGN 

JUDGMENT 

TO: ELIBARDO ZAPATA SAA 

ADDRESS UNKNOWN 

YOU ARE NOTIFIED that an action for 

PETITION TO DOMESTICATE FOR- 

EIGN JUDGEMENT has been filed against 

you and that you are required to serve a 

copy of your written defenses, if any, to the 

Petitioner, Edward A. Lopez, Esq., whose address 

is 3440 Hollywood Blvd., Suite 415, 

Hollywood, FL 33021 on or before March 13, 

2024 and file the original with the clerk of 

this Court at 201 Southeast Sixth Street, Fort 

Lauderdale, Florida 33301. If you fail to do so, 

a default may be entered against you for the 

relief demanded in the petition. 

Copies of all court documents in the case, 

including orders, are available at the Clerk of 

the Circuit Court’s office. You may review 

these documents upon request. 

You must keep the Clerk of the Circuit 

Court’s office notified of your current address. 

(You may file Notice of Current Address, 

Florida Supreme Court Approved 

Family Law Form 12.915.) Future papers in 

this lawsuit will be mailed to the address on 

record at the clerk’s office. 

WARNING: Rule 12.285, Florida Family 

Law Rules of Procedure, requires certain 

automatic disclosure of documents and information. 

Failure to comply can result in 

sanctions, including dismissal or striking of 

pleadings. 

Dated March 27, 2024 

Clerk of the Circuit Court 

Marilyn D. Robinson, Deputy Clerk 

April 4, 11, 18, 25, 2024 

Maurice Ashley became the 

first African American to earn 

an International Grandmaster 

chess title 25 years ago. 

As of today he is still only one 

of three Black grandmasters, 

of which he is the only American. 

Still, despite the amount of 

time, energy and brainpower 

it takes to even contend for 

such a title, Ashley will tell 

you that he’s really only an 

“advanced beginner.” 

“It is extremely important to 

understand that life is a process, 

and falling short at the 

time that you fell short is part 

of the growth that allows you 

to get better through self-reflection,” 

he says, sounding 

more Zen master than chess 

master. “There’s really no 

such thing as failure.” 

Born in Jamaica, Ashley 

moved to the U.S. in his early 

teens, settling in Brownsville 

in the 1980s, when it 

was plagued by an epidemic 

of drugs and violence. Life in 

Brooklyn could be hard and 

even dangerous at times, but 

Ashley would not realize until 

years later the invaluable life 

skill he acquired: resilience. 

A naturally gifted, curious 

and competitive person, Ashley 

found and started studying 

a chess book at Brooklyn 

Technical High School after 

a bitter loss to a childhood 

friend during a casual match. 

Since that day, Ashley has 

spent thousands upon thousands 

of hours analyzing the 

seemingly endless ways to 

move on a chessboard, mastering 

formations and strategies, 

and competing all 

around the world. 

In his new book out April 2, 

“Move by Move: Life Lessons 

On and Off the Chessboard,” 

Ashley shares the wisdom he’s 

gained from his love of the 

game: “Thinking like a chess 

player can change your life,” 

he writes. “It can help you to 

think before you leap while 

also trusting your intuition, 

to map out the future while 

staying firmly rooted in the 

present, and to master yourself 

while seeing the world 

through the eyes of others.“ 

Ashley is also releasing a children’s 

book, “The Life-Changing 

Magic of Chess,” on the 

same day. Brooklyn Magazine 

sat down with Ashley to 

discuss both books, what he 

hopes readers will take away 

and growing up in Brooklyn 

where, he says, “it was 

real. It was street and it was 

take-your-head-off, kill or be 

killed.” 

This interview has been edited 

for concision and clarity 

“Move by Move” seems to 

work as both a motivational 

guide from one of the world’s 

greatest chess players and 

also as a sort of self-reflection 

on some of the biggest moments 

of your life. 

Well, the funny thing is this 

book was not supposed to be 

this book because when Princeton 

Architectural Press first 

approached me, they wanted 

me to write a chess book on 

Ashley in action (Photo by 

Jennifer Huemmer, CC BY- 

SA 4.0) 

HOROSCOPENNPA 

APRIL11, 2024 

NUMBERS 

(2-DAY 

RESULTS) 

Send Self 

Addressed 

Envelope and 

$10.00 to: 

C.L.HENRY or 

S.H. ROBINSON 

P.O.BOX 5304 

FORT 

LAUDERDALE, 

FL 33310 

For Entertainment 

Purpose Only! 

ARIES-When you are guided by spirit, you’ll find 

that you are working, living, and breathing in tune 

with the universe. What a great feeling! You’ll be 

a source of peace and blessings for all that you 

encounter this week. 12, 17, 22 

TAURUS-Remember that you are an intensely 

physical sign, and you need to move your body 

in order to relax. Take a walk, go for a swim, play 

tennis, or scrub that kitchen floor. However you 

choose to move, you’ll liberate your spirit and 

relax at the same time. Get going! 2, 40, 45 

GEMINI-It’s a week tailor-made for your energies, 

so get out there and let every perfect moment 

flow toward you. You’ve got an abundance of 

pleasant feelings why not spread them around? 

1, 8, 14 

CANCER-Success is a series of small steps. The 

baby steps you take each week toward your 

dream will move you closer and closer to your 

vision. Keep taking those little steps and expect to 

hear some good news about a big project. 5, 7, 10 

LEO-Expect some surprises this week. You’ll 

be very happy about at least one of them. Stay 

flexible and you’ll be in the right place at the right 

moment, every moment. You’ll want to celebrate 

at home tonight. 20, 34, 45 

VIRGO-A burst of enthusiasm will carry you 

through the early part of the work week, and with 

a positive outlook, you’ll be very happy with what 

you’ve accomplished at the end of the week. 

Have a heap of fun! 4, 37, 53 

LIBRA-An older female may extend something 

valuable to you, and you’ll be very glad about 

what you receive. Possibilities seem endless this 

week, and you’ll want to refresh your outlook 

about a particular project that suddenly looks 

lucrative again. 65, 36, 52 

SCORPIO-The possibility exists that you’ve 

temporarily overlooked a powerful way of 

increasing your income. Still your mind and let 

your spirit guide you toward a perfect solution to 

a vexing situation. 20, 21, 24 

the wild and wacky world of 

chess, the interesting personalities 

and crazy stories. And 

I agreed to write that book because 

I thought it would be an 

interesting book to write. 

But that book refused to 

be written. I tried collecting 

stories and to get into the 

personal reasons and it just 

wouldn’t happen. Finally, a 

new editor came on and she 

said, “Listen, what book do 

you want to write?” I said, 

“You know, the book I want 

to write is a book about what 

I’ve learned from chess,” and 

this is what this book became, 

the life lessons of the game. 

This book includes personal 

anecdotes about your childhood, 

your development as a 

player and some of the critical 

matches you both won 

and lost. You also talk about 

the anger and hurt you had 

once felt toward your parents, 

stemming from a fractured 

childhood. 

Well, when I talk about 

chess transforming me and 

teaching me so many things 

about life, it’s because of 

its applicability in so many 

ways. And a huge part of that 

is how it impacts you personally. 

Some people just see it as 

a board game that you move 

some pieces around and have 

fun, checkmate your friends. 

And that’s all good. But I’ve 

always been able to integrate 

all my learnings in life with 

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SAGITTARIUS-Personal finance stays in focus 

this week, and you’ll be looking at new ways of 

creating and managing wealth. If you keep your 

mind open to the flow of abundance, you’re sure 

to be happily surprised this week. 28, 37, 44 

CAPRICORN-Lots of love and good vibrations are 

in the air this week. You’ll be whole-heartedly 

open to a proposal that involves something very 

important to you. Keep your energy constructive 

and positive.16, 48, 51 

AQUARIUS-This week’s vibration seems to have 

only a single point for you, and that is to get out 

and have some fun with friends. You could use 

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go have a good time! 9, 13, 30 

PISCES-Don’t underestimate the power of 

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adamant with your ideas and pursuit. The 

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Learn to positively distract yourself as you wait 

and continue to let your enthusiasm rise about all 

negative feelings.1, 15, 30 

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Deeply Rooted 


THE DR. 

IS IN THE 

HALL 

For the Week oF April 9 - 14, 2024 

 

Tennessee State Sports photo 

A TRUE PLAYER: Tennesse 

State and NBA great, Dr. Dick 

Barnett, 87, voted into Naismith 

Basketball Hall of Fame. 

NEW UFL HAS 11 HBCU PLAYERS; 3rd HBCU ALL- 

STAR GAME WRAPS; NAIA HOOP STARS HONORED 

UNDER THE BANNER 

WHAT'S GOiNG ON iN AND ArOUND BlACK COllEGE SpOrTS 

UFL KICKS OFF WITH 11 HBCU PLAYERS: 

The new eight-team United Football League (UFL) 

kicked off on March 30 with just 11 

players on its rosters from the black 

college ranks. 

The league was created following the merger of the 

XFL and USFL. The UFL consists of eight teams – four 

in the USFL Conference and four in the XFL Conference 

– all of whom were members of the XFL or USFL prior 

to the UFL's creation. The teams are concentrated in 

the Midwest and Southern United States. The Houston 

franchise in the USFL Conference has changed its name 

from the Gamblers to the Roughnecks. 

There were a total of 33 HBCU players on rosters of 

the two leagues in 2023 – 19 in the USFL and 14 in the 

XFL. That means a lot of those players are not on UFL 

rosters. 

Returning as a head coach in the UFL is former 

Alabama State and NFL wide 

receiver Reggie Barlow who coached 

the XFL's D. C. Defenders to the 2023 

XFL title game. The Defenders fell to 

the Arlington Renegades, 35-26 in 

that championship contest. Before 

leading the Defenders, Barlow had 

Barlow 

© AZEEZ Communications, Inc. Vol. XXX, No. 37 

been the head coach in the HBCU 

ranks at his alma mater Alabama 

State and at Virginia State. 

His team has three former HBCU players, the 

most of any UFL team – former Hampton quarterback 

Deondre Francois, former Tennessee State wideout and 

kick returner Chris Rowland and former Virginia State 

running back Darius Hagans. The Defenders are 1-1 in 

the young season. Rowland and Hagans had short stints in 

the NFL. 

Two teams – Houston of the USFL Conference and 

the San Antonio Brahmas of the XFL Conference – have 

two HBCU players. Houston has former Tennessee State 

offensive lineman Brandon Haskin and former Kentucky 

State cornerback Jai Nunn-Liddell. The Brahmas have 

former Delaware State running back Brycen Alleyne and 

former Norfolk State wide receiver Justin Smith. 

Perhaps the most well known of the HBCU players 

is former Fort Valley State punter Marquette King 

who spent seven years in the NFL, six with the Oakland 

Raiders and one with the Denver Broncos. He kicked for 

the St. Louis Battlehawks in the 2020 version of the XFL 

and now punts for the Arlington Renegades in the XFL 

Conference of the UFL. 

The league, who has TV partnerships with ABC, 

ESPN, ESPN2, Fox and FS1, will have each team play 

five regular season games. Three postseason games will 

culminate with FOX, who is carrying 21 of the 43 games, 

televising the championship game on June 16. UFL coowner 

Dwayne "The Rock" Johnson has said that "the XFL 

is specifically designed its schedule to give its players the 

best chance of latching on with an NFL team in May." 

UFL players' minimum salaries are $5,500 per week 

($2,500 for inactive players) and $150 a week toward 

401K contributions, with $400 a week house stipend 

and $55-a-day per diem stipend during travel days. All 

contracts run from January 1 to August 24. 

THE STAT CORNER 

WHO ArE THE BEST pErFOrMErS iN BlACK COllEGE SpOrTS 

HBCU PLAYERS ON UFL ROSTERS 

USFL CONFERENCE 

BIRMINGHAM STALLIONS (1) 

73 Alex Taylor-Prioleau OT 6'9" 308 South Carolina State 

HOUSTON ROUGHNECKS (2) 

76 Brandon Haskin OL 6'3" 315 Tennessee State 

27 Jai Nunn-Liddell CB 6'2" 190 Kentucky State 

MEMPHIS SHOWBOATS (1) 

4 Dee Anderson WR 6'6" 225 Alabama A&M 

MICHIGAN PANTHERS (0) 

XFL CONFERENCE 

ARLINGTON RENEGADES (1) 

7 Marquette King P 6'0" 192 Fort Valley State 

D. C. DEFENDERS (3) 

8 Deondre Francois QB 6'1" 215 Hampton 

28 Darius Hagans RB 6'0" 207 Virginia State 

12 Chris Rowland WR 5'8" 179 Tennessee State 

SAN ANTONIO BRAHMAS (2) 

26 Brycen Alleyne RB 5'5" 160 Delaware State 

10 Justin Smith WR 6'2" 180 Norfolk State 

ST. LOUIS BATTLEHAWKS (1) 

80 Kemari Averett TE 6'6" 257 Bethune-Cookman 

BCSP Notes 

Team Wallace prevails over Team Mahorn 

at 3rd annual HBCU All-Star Game 

PHOENIX — The team named for former Virginia Union and NBA 

All-Star Ben Wallace overcame an 11-point deficit to pull out a 108-97 win 

over the team named for former Hampton and NBA star Rick Mahorn 

here at the 3rd Annual HBCU All-Star Game Sunday. 

According to Kyle T. Mosley of HBCU Legends, the thrilling allstar 

contest had 7,211 fans in attendance at Global Credit Union Arena on 

Grand Canyon University's campus. 

Team Wallace's Dhashon Dyson, a 6-1 guard out 

of Bethune-Cookman, scored a team-high 19 points 

including five 3-pointers and was named MVP of the 

game. Dyson averaged 14.0 points and canned 61 3s while 

shooting .345 from behind the arc for the Wildcats this 

season. 

Winston-Salem State 6-4 guard Jaylen Alston, the CIAA player of 

the year who averaged 18.1 points per game and a league best 8.5 rebounds 

per contest, scored 16 points. Alcorn State 6-7 forward Jeremiah Kendall, 

an all-SWAC first teamer, added 14 in the comeback win. In total, six 

players from Team Wallace finished in double figures. 

Team Wallace was coached by Texas Southern Head Coach Johnny 

Jones and Lincoln Head Coach Jason Armstrong. The team featured 

players from the Southwestern Athletic Conference (SWAC) and the 

Central Intercollegiate Athletic Association (CIAA). 

Team Mahorn's Christian Brown, a 6-6 guard from Tennessee 

State, scored 21 points and North Carolina Central 6-1 all-MEAC 

point guard Fred Cleveland Jr. added 20 for Team Mahorn, coached by 

NCCU's LeVelle Moton and Alfred Jordan of Clark Atlanta. The team 

was comprised of players from the Southern Intercollegiate Athletic 

Conference (SIAC), the Mid-Eastern Athletic Conference (MEAC) and 

Independent All-Stars from Tennessee State and Hampton. 

The two teams combined to shoot 30 of 88 from distance. Cleveland 

knocked down a game-high six 3-pointers. 

TEAM MAHORN 

Fred Cleveland Jr., PG, NCCU; Chris Martin, PG, CAU; Raquan Brown, SG, SCSU; 

Ja'Darius Harris, SG, NCCU; Allen Betrand, SG, NSU; Asanti Price, SG, BEN; 

Christian Wells, SF, LOC; Tedrick Wilcox Jr., SF, HAMP; Jordan Simpson, PF/C, ALB; 

Jason Jitoboh, C, TNST 

TEAM WALLACE 

PJ Henry, PG, TXSU; Dhashon Dyson, CG, B-CU; Brandon Davis, CG, SOU; Rashad 

Williams, SG, UAPB; Tra'Michael Moton, SG, GRAM; Jaylen Alston, SF, WSSU; Tre 

Richarson, SF, ECSU; Charles Smith, SG, PVA&M; Rayquan Brown, SG, MVSU; 

Jordan O'Neal, PF, JSU; Jeremiah Kendall, PF, ALC; Jourdan Smith, PF, GRAM 

Tennessee State's Dick Barnett receives 

long overdue Hall of Fame recognition 

Stephen J. Gaither of HBCU Gameday.com penned a report last 

week that former New York Knicks star and Tennessee State University 

basketball legend Dick Barnett was about to receive basketball's highest 

honor. 

Barnett was said to be set to be enshrined in the Naismith Basketball 

Hall of Fame, according to former Knicks great and Hall of Famer, Walt 

"Clyde" Frazier. No official announcement had been made at the time, but 

Frazier says he was told the news by none other than Winston-Salem State 

and NBA Hall of Famer, Earl “The Pearl” Monroe. 

All those reports were confirmed on Saturday when it was announced 

that Barnett is one of 13 new members in the 2024 Hall of Fame Class. 

Barnett, now known as Dr. Dick Barnett after earning a PhD in education 

from Fordham University, is now retired from teaching Sports Management 

at St. John's University in New York as of 2007. He was selected from 

the Hall's Men's Veteran Committee. The Class Announcement was made 

in Glendale, Ariz., the site of the 2024 NCAA Men's Final Four, and was 

televised live on ESPN2. 

Born Richard Barnett in Gary, Indiana, his rise to fame began at 

Theodore Roosevelt High where he battled with a Crispus Attucks High 

basketball team led by Oscar Robertson and helped lead Roosevelt to the 

state championship game in 1955. 

Barnett, a 

left-hander noted 

for his fold-up 

jump shot, played 

his college ball at 

Dyson 

Tennessee A&I 

(now Tennessee 

State University) 

where he was 

BARNETT: At Tennessee 

an outstanding 

State (l.) and the New York 

performer for 

Knicks (above) 

legendary Head 

Coach John McLendon. With Barnett as his star pupil, TSU won NAIA 

national titles in 1957, 1958, and 1959 with a combined record over that 

period of 93-10, 31-4 in '57, 31-5 in '58 and 31-1 in '59. The Tigers were 

the first team to three-peat as national champions, revolutionized college 

basketball with its fast break and full-court defense and set the course for 

HBCU teams to dismantle racist practices in the NAIA and the NCAA. 

Barnett became a three-time Associated Press Little College All- 

American at TSU helping the school to a 36-game winning streak and 

received back-to-back championship MVP honors, the Chuck Taylor 

Awards, in 1958 and 1959. He averaged 28.7 points per game in the 1958- 

59 season and 29.8 points in 1957-58 season. He graduated as the program's 

all-time leading career scorer with 3,209 points for a 23.6 average in 136 

games. He totaled 1,571 career rebounds for an 11.6 average, a career 

shooting percentage of 44.8, and 80.0 from the free throw line. 

He was selected fourth overall by the NBA's Syracuse Nationals in 

1959. He briefly played for McLendon again, helping the Cleveland Pipers 

win the American Basketball League championship in 1961. Barnett 

returned to the NBA in 1962, spending three seasons with the Los Angeles 

Lakers before being traded to the New York Knicks. Barnett had his best 

years with the Knicks, making the NBA All-Star game in 1968. 

He would go on to play a supporting role on the 1970 and 1973 teams 

that brought the New York Knicks their lone NBA titles so far. 

Barnett scored 15,358 regular season points in his career and the 

Knicks retired his No. 12 jersey in 1990. 

The Class of 2024 includes Chauncey Billups, Vince Carter, Michael 

Cooper, Walter Davis, college coach Bo Ryan, high school coach Charles 

Smith, women's player Seimone Augustus, women's coach Harley Redin 

international player Michelle Timms, former No. 1 NBA draft pick 

Doug Collins, former Indiana Pacers' owner Herb Simon and Jerry West, 

previously enshrined as a player and member of the 1960 U. S. Olympic 

team that will go in this time as an executive. 

Their enshrinement will be during festivities in Springfield, Mass., the 

Birthplace of Basketball, as well as the Mohegan Sun in Uncasville, Conn., 

on August 16-17. 

Vice President Kamala Harris meets with 

HBCU legends at White House 

Nearly 70 years after breaking barriers on the basketball court, six 

THE GENTLEMEN CHAMPS: Members of the 1957 Tennessee A&I 

(Tennessee State) NAIA national basketball championship team then (above). 

(Below) The surviving members of the 1950s TSU championship teams now 

honored and recognized at the White House by Vice President, Kamala Harris. 

members of the 1950s Tennessee State basketball program met with Vice 

President and HBCU graduate Kamala Harris, HBCU Gameday's Stephen 

J. Gaither reported last week. 

Henry Carlton, Robert Clark, Ron Hamilton, Ernie Jones, George 

Finley and Dick Barnett met with Harris in the Roosevelt Room at the 

White House on Friday. 

"I thought this would never take place," said Finley, who was part of 

the 1959 championship team."[Winning] the championship was big, but it 

wasn't as big as being here with [Vice President] Harris today." 

These six men - along with the rest of the team - played for the 

championship Tennessee A&I program that became the first from a black 

college to win a national basketball title. The program went on to win the 

same title in 1958 and 1959, becoming the first college basketball program 

to win three consecutive national titles. 

"I look at each of you and the path and the journey that you've been on 

and your willingness to tell the story in such an active way is so important," 

VP Harris, a graduate of Howard University, told the men. "There are 

forces right now that would try to overlook or deny our history. But I think 

the only way that we will continue to strengthen ourselves and see progress 

as a country is when we remember where we've been to help us guide where 

we want to be." 

The Tennessee State program was led by Basketball Hall of Famer 

John McLendon, who helped the program climb the NAIA mountain less 

than five years after black colleges were first allowed to participate in the 

tournament. 

Barnett was the team's star player who would go on to be drafted into the 

NBA in 1959 and go on to become an NBA All-Star and two-time champion 

with the New York Knicks. The 87-year-old was recently elected (see related 

story) to the Basketball Hall of Fame and will be enshrined into the hall this 

fall. 

Harris has been an outspoken ambassador during her stint as Vice 

President, appearing at the NCAA Tournament and Celebration Bowl during 

Howard's appearances and recently called Grambling State after its NCAA 

Basketball Tournament First Four win. 

Langston's Anthony Roy, Toru Dean 

top list of NAIA All-Americans 

Langston University lefthanded sharpshooter Anthony Roy and 

teammate and point guard Toru Dean were named NAIA basketball all- 

Americans this week. The duo was instrumental in the 35-2 Lions' run to the 

NAIA national championship game last week. 

Roy, who was named to the NAIA All-American first team, capped a 

banner year for the Lions after being named Sooner Athletic Conference 

(SAC) Player of the Year, Newcomer of the Year, first-team All-SAC and 

to the NAIA All-Tournament team. The 6-5 junior guard from Oakland, 

California led Langston in scoring at 18.4 points per game and with 4.8 

rebounds per game. 

Roy had a high of 30 points vs. John Brown in Deceember and had 

three other 29-point outings. He finished the season with 663 points, 171 

career rebounds, 54 assists and 34 steals. 

Dean, who was named to the NAIA All-American third team, is a 

6-foot, senior point guard for the Lions. He was also selected first-team All- 

SAC. He suited up every game for the Lions during the 2023-24 campaign 

and finished averaging 9.4 points per game, 4.4 rebounds per game and 4.1 

assists per game. 

Dean tallied a season-high 17 points in an 86-55 win over SAGU on 

Dec. 9, 2023, 11 assists versus Southwestern Christian on Jan. 6, 2024, and 

seven steals on Nov. 25, 2023. He concludes his Langston career with 646 

points, 251 assists, 283 rebounds and 132 steals in 66 games played. 

Southern New Orleans 6-8 freshman forward Jamal Gibson and 

junior guard Najee Jones of Texas College were also named to the NAIA 

third team. Gibson, 26, averaged 21.8 points and 15.8 rebounds per game for 

the Knights. SUNO finished 8-22 on the season. Jones led the 22-9 Steers in 

scoring at 14.7 points per game and pulling down 6.2 rebounds per game. 

BEST NAIA PLAYERS: Toru Dean (l.) and Anthony Roy (r.) of NAIA national 

runners-up Langston lead four HBCU players including SUNO's Jamal 

Gibson and Texas College's Najee Jones named NAIA All-Americans.


SPORTS 

Nunnie on the Sideline 

By “Nunnie” Robinson, Westside Gazette Sports Editor 

My immediate impression as I watched 

the women’s NCAA Championship game 

featuring Iowa and South Carolina was 

that the Gamecocks were going to have 

to win the game decisively! Don’t leave it 

in the hands of the officials because some 

of the calls were so inconsequential that 

they should have been allowed to play 

on. It seemed that just a touch or brush 

caused a whistle. I was proud of Coach 

Staley maintaining her composure in the 

face of the abject scrutiny. I know that the 

Gamecocks had an advantage inside with 

Kamilla Cardoso, but because of their depth, I thought they 

should have run the Hawks out of the gym. These comments 

are based on the first half. Let’s see how things unfold in the 

second half. After watching the conclusion of game, there 

are several takeaways: the players decided the game, not the 

officials. Dawn Staley stuck with the game plan of getting the 

ball inside to the game’s MOP, Kamilla Cardoso, allowed 

the veterans and young freshman alike to play and perform 

as they had all season and Dawn Staley again gave praise to 

the AlMighty God that we serve. As she put it, “ He closed 

one window last season but opened up another one this year- 

2024.”To go undefeated through out the regular season, 

tournament play, defeating some very talented, disciplined 

opponents along the way, and win a national championship by 

going 38-0 is nothing short of a miraculous achievement. Her 

teams play with class and poise, ( never get rattled) obviously 

products of Coach Staley’s tutelage and influence. Congrats on 

a season that can only be replicated. Doesn’t it feel in some way 

like the Gamecocks have become America’s team. I know I was 

rooting hard for them . 

I really don’t expect tonight’s men’s final between U Conn and 

Purdue to be competitive. I could be wrong, but I don’t think so. 

I would love to be wrong. As I watched the intense, competitive 

first half with the score a fairly close 36-30 Husky lead, I totally 

underestimated Zach Edey’s talent as a scorer, rebounder, shot 

blocker, screen setter and inside force. 

The second half proved the complete opposite as U Conn’s 

superior talent and depth, especially Tristan Newton, the East 

Carolina transfer who was named the game’s Most Outstanding 

Player. The strategy was simple: deny three point opportunities 

and single Edey, who seemed confused when put in pick & roll 

situations. Fatigue was also a factor as Edey played the entire 

game, plus the Huskies dominated offensive rebounds and 

loose balls, converting numerous second shot opportunities. 

The final score- 75-60 - symbolized U Conn’s superiority. 

Congratulations to the U Conn Huskies, winners of consecutive 

NCAA championships, a feat that hadn’t been accomplished 

since Billy Donavan and the Florida Gators in 2006-2007. 

These HBCU basketball players 

have entered the WNBA Draft 

By Jarrett Hoffman 

(Source HBCU Sports): 

The WNBA Draft is set to take place on April 15, and three 

HBCU players have made themselves available for selection. 

Here are the players hoping to hear their names called on 

draft night. 

Amari Heard G, Savannah State 

Savannah State guard Amari Heard is one of two Division 

II entering their name in the hat for the 2024 WNBA Draft. 

She averaged 10.3 points, 6.7 rebounds, and 1.6 steals in 

her five seasons with the Tigers. 

She culminated her collegiate career with an All-SIAC First 

Team selection after notching 13.9 points, 7.7 rebounds, 

and 2.3 steals, leading the team to an SIAC East Division 

championship. 

Angel Jackson F, Jackson State 

Listed at 6 foot 6, Jackson State center Angel Jackson is the 

tallest prospect in the 2024 WNBA Draft field. 

In her two seasons at Jackson State, Jackson compiled 

9.6 points per game, 6.9 rebounds per game, and 2.7 blocks 

per game in 64 total games. She was named SWAC Defensive 

Player of the Year each season. 

This past season, Jackson was selected to the All-SWAC 

Second Team in a year in which she put up 10.0 points, 6.8 

rebounds, and 2.9 blocks. 

Jackson is looking to become the second Jackson State 

player selected in the WNBA Draft in the past three years, 

following Ameshya Williams-Holliday in 2022. 

Ny Langley F, Virginia Union 

Virginia Union forward Ny Langley, who transferred to the 

Panthers from Duquesne University, is rounding out the list. 

Langley played three seasons at Union, tallying 14.1 points 

per game, 7.5 rebounds per game, 2.4 assists, and 1.3 steals per 

game. 

She was named to the All-CIAA team in each of her last two 

seasons, including her second season, in which she averaged a 

career-high 15.3 points. 

OUR UNITY IS OUR STRENGTH, 

AND OUR 

DIVERSITY IS OUR POWER. 

-- Kamala Harris Madam Vice President 

Inspirtional Quote Wall..... 

Photo: Jackson State Athletics 

Deeply Rooted 

Staley sets public 

example of her faith 

By Vaughn Wilson 

University of South Carolina head 

women’s basketball coach Dawn Staley once 

again made history with her accomplishments 

on the court. Her USC Gamecocks completed 

a perfect season at 38-0 with a resounding 

victory over the Iowa Hawkeyes. 

Staley is no stranger to success. In 

college, as a player, she was a standout for the 

Virginia Cavaliers. She was drafted the ninth 

overall player in the 1999 WNBA Draft. She 

would garner six WNBA All-Star nomination. She was also a 

member of the world champion gold medalists of Team USA in 

1992. As a point guard she was dominant and fearless. 

As a coach, she has built the USC basketball program 

to tops in the country. Sunday, she won her third national 

championship. This time would be different, as she would 

be the o.1 team in the country wire-to-wire and capture the 

championship in a , 87-75 win over the Hawkeyes. 

As if the win wasn’t enough, it was quite a dramatic 

postgame. Staley, known to be stern and direct, was brought 

to tears with the excitement of the moment. Once she was able 

to stabilize her emotions, she would utter words heard around 

the world. 

“We serve an unbelievable God…uncommon favor… 

uncommon favor…uncommon favor,” Staley said. Barely able 

to contain her excitement coupled with the blessings of God. 

It is not uncommon for athletes and coaches to give a short 

honor to God, but this was different. As veteran ESPN reporter 

Holly Rowe allowed her to proceed at her own pace, Staley 

wanted to emphasize that the interview would not continue 

without her being allowed to give props to her savior. She again 

praised God at the podium before being handed the national 

championship trophy. 

So many times and in so many forums, folks have been 

prohibited from doing such a tribute. On this day, it was clear 

that Staley’s beliefs were center stage. She explained her 

emotions as she proceeded in the interview. 

Last season, USC would bow out of the tournament in 

the semifinal round to the same Iowa Hawkeyes. Staley took 

aim at the recruits that could help get the Gamecocks over 

the hump and earn her third national women’s basketball 

championship. Armed with freshman that she brought into put 

the Gamecocks back in championship caliber, the team would 

respond. It joined the elite and legendary few teams that had 

won the NCAA Women’s Division-I national championship 

while going undefeated. The last time it was accomplished was 

2016. 

The women’s basketball championship broke every 

viewership mark ever set. The game featuring LSU and Iowa 

drew 12.6 million viewers. The next week, superstar Caitlin 

Clark and the Hawkeyes drew over 13 million in their lastsecond 

win over the University of Connecticut Huskies. This 

year’s tournament was truly the crowning achievement of 

women’s sports. 

It is so refreshing that at the center of all this historic 

media coverage is a woman not afraid to reveal her faith to 

the world. Staley is known for building a village with her 

players. While she is prohibited from putting her beliefs on 

her team, nothing could keep her from telling the world about 

her God. “God is funny like that. He’s funny. He rips your 

heart out and he makes you believe. He makes you believe the 

unimaginable…Jesus,” she concluded. 

Florida Memorial hires 

women’s basketball 

coach away from 

Langston 

By Chris Stevens 

(Source HBCU): 

Florida Memorial University turned to a proven winner 

to guide their women’s basketball program, announcing the 

hire of new head coach Kevin Herod on Wednesday. 

“The appointment of Kevin Herod is a testament to our 

commitment to excellence. His proven track record and 

dedication to student-athlete success both on and off the 

court are what set him apart,” FMU athletic director Jason 

Horn said in a statement. “We are excited to see him bring 

his championship experience to our program.” 

Herod comes to FMU from Langston, where he guided 

the Lady Lions to a 24-8 record, 17-5 in the Sooner Athletic 

Conference, and an appearance in the National Association 

of Intercollegiate Athletics national tournament. Prior to 

Langston, he was head coach at his alma mater, Talladega 

College, compiling a 171-68 record in eight seasons as 

women’s basketball head coach. Herod released a statement 

on X, formerly known as Twitter, announcing his departure 

from Langston. 

“I am deeply grateful for this opportunity,” he said. “I 

want to extend my heartfelt thanks to AD Horn, Brentwood 

Partners (search firm), and the FMU athletic leaders for 

their confidence in me. Their support is instrumental in our 

shared vision for the future of FMU Women’s Basketball.” 

Photo: Florida Memorial Athletics 

Submitted by Crystal C. Pittman 


Gwen Thomas, the Personification 

of a Student-Athlete 

Ms. Gwendolyn G. Thomas is a graduating senior of Miami 

Northwestern Senior High School who has earned a 4.3 

grade point average as a penultimate student-athlete, a high 

achiever academically and athletically. Not only is Gwendolyn 

excelling as a Northwestern Bull, she will achieve dual honors 

graduate status, earning simultaneously her Associates of Arts 

Degree from Miami Dade College. In addition to her academic 

and athletic achievements, she is the Student Government 

Association (SGA) President, a National Honor Society Officer, 

a member of the National Math Honor Society, National Social 

Studies Honor Society, National English Honor Society, National 

PTSA, National Thespian Honor Society, Performing Arts 

Magnet Student, Varsity Cheerleader and Baseball Manager. 

Gwendolyn is also a member of numerous community service 

organizations where she holds positions on the national, regional 

and local levels. Her community service extends from feeding the 

homeless, clothing and toy drives, participating in cancer walks 

and fundraisers as well as other important disease awareness 

walkathons. An advocate for senior citizens and youth, she is 

also a youth member of the NAACP, NCNW and Top Teens of 

America where she is committed to educating the community 

on voter education and awareness and women’s rights. 

Gwendolyn is a Silver Knights Nominee for Miami-Dade 

County and a gymnast with the USA Junior Olympics 

women’s gymnastics team, having won the State of Florida’s 

1st Place Vault Championship and finishing 2nd in the All 

Around competition. She will continue competing in the 

field of gymnastics, Acrobatics and Tumbling in college. 

Gwendolyn will pursue her bachelor’s degree in Criminal 

Justice-Pre Law immediately after completing high school. 


Champion 

Charity Host Inaugural 

HBCU High 

School Football Showcase 

By William McCormick 

The inaugural HBCU Football Showcase, hosted by 

Champion Charity and presented by All Health Matters 

Foundation, took place Saturday, April 6, 2024, at the Lauderhill 

Sports Park. Although the showcase started at 7 p.m., many 

attendees arrived early, thus facilitating the illumination of 

the early morning sky prior to park lights being activated. 

By the end of the event, nearly 75 juniors and seniors were 

enrolled for this FREE one-day football showcase. The morning 

was packed with plenty of talent and anxious student-athletes 

eager to display their skills for Historically Black Colleges and 

Universities. The event brought together student-athletes, 

sponsors, physicians, former NFL players, coaches and 

volunteers to a perfect weather day and conditions suited for 

challenging agility drills and one-on-one competition. 

The event was a huge success as parents gave praise 

about how well organized the showcase was. Parent Arglenda 

Willis enthusiastically stated, “My grandson registered 

online, we showed up early to the park not sure what to 

really expect. The check in process/ registration procedures 

were seamless and the volunteer workers were very friendly. 

I really enjoyed seeing so many kids up so early, chasing 

their dream for college, and the organizer did a tremendous 

job getting ready for this morning, and believe me, I watched 

everything. Each field activity from the bench press to the 40- 

yard dash was completely coordinated.” 

All Health Matters Foundation was the title sponsor of the 

event of field activities that consisted of seven agility stations 

from the bench press to the 40-yard dash. Each participant was 

provided a swag bag filled with sports apparel and tech items. 

Participating athletes were also provided a box lunch after the 

showcase. 

Four years ago, Champion Charity, Inc., was founded 

by William “Bill” McCormick, who’s known and respected 

for his community leadership, advocacy and business acumen. 

He is the brainchild behind this showcase and the selfproclaimed 

national ambassador for increased exposure 

and enrollment for all HBCUs. His mission is to bring more 

awareness through education and outreach activities about the 

value and importance of HBCUs, especially those that present 

opportunities for South Florida student-athletes to 

consider attending and playing sports. “This inaugural 

Continue reading and see more photos online at: thewestsidegazette.com


Deeply Rooted 

Family Physician Dr. Catherine Toomer Challenges Shame To Change Weight Loss Models 

– Physician Has Lost More Than 100 Pounds Using Her Proprietary Self-Care and Weight Management Program – 

what we didn’t get in our 

medical training, but what 

our patients so desperately 

need,” says Catherine Tomer, 

founder, TOTAL Weight 

Care Institute️. 

Dr. Toomer’s TOTAL 

Weight Care Institute️ 

stands out from other weight 

loss entities by offering 

an array of resources and 

training that incorporates 

evidence-based methods that 

empower individuals to make 

positive changes in every 

aspect of their lives. 

“We have created a space 

that has taken the shame 

and judgment that so many 

of us have experienced in our 

health journey and replaced 

it with the care we need, the 

results we want, and with 

the power of self acceptance,” 

says Dr. Toomer. 

To learn more about Dr. 

Toomer and TOTAL Weight 

Care Institute️ and the 

innovative approach to the 

whole person weight care, 

visit the website https:// 

drtoomer.com 

About Dr Catherine 

Toomer 

Dr. Catherine Toomer is 

a family physician, certified 

hypnotherapist, Neuro- 

Linguistic Programming 

(NLP) practitioner, and 

founder of TOTAL Weight 

Care Institute️. She has 

successfully lost more than 

100 pounds and has kept the 

weight off for over 20 years. 

Overcoming obstacles such 

as Type 2 Diabetes, near fatal 

pregnancy induced congestive 

heart failure, shaming and 

weight care prejudice, her 

remarkable journey ignited 

her passion to successfully 

redefine weight health 

strategies. 

Her first hand experience 

with weight loss management 

has inspired her to found 

Health Wellness and Weight 

Loss Centers in 2016 – her 

first step in filling gaps in 

traditional medical delivery 

to create a safe haven in 

weight loss management. 

Building on the success of 

this center, Dr. Toomer has 

created the TOTAL Weight 

Care Institute️ to extend 

her innovative approach to 

educating fellow clinicians. 

COLUMBIA SOUTH 

CAROLINA -- Dr. Catherine 

Toomer, the visionary 

behind TOTAL Weight Care 

Institute️, is revolutionizing 

the weight loss industry 

by challenging the shame 

to change models. With a 

distinguished background as 

a family caregiver physician, 

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Parents are struggling with high prices this year. It may shape 

how they vote 

Submitted by Ashley Lopez 

Any parent will tell you it’s the 

hardest job, and many say it’s gotten 

more difficult because everyday 

expenses have increased in recent 

years. 

Joseph Yusuf of Washington, D.C., 

is one of them. He spends every 

afternoon with his 11-year-old 

daughter, Jakayla. She lives with her 

mom nearby, and after school, Yusuf 

and Jakayla do homework together, 

sometimes play video games or shoot 

hoops. 

He has a big support system — that 

includes his mom and grandmother, 

who help out as he manages his fulltime 

job and co-parenting Jakayla. 

But rising costs have left him feeling 

particularly challenged. 

Yusuf, who works at Howard 

University as an events and 

facilities coordinator, says he wants 

to eventually start saving for her 

college, but for months now, after 

bills are paid, there’s no money left 

over. 

“Food, gas, car insurance, rent, 

just any and everything. All the above 

have just risen. And I’m not going to 

lie to you, I stress,” he says. “There’s 

a part of me that just, you know, wants to break down.” 

Many Americans say economic pressures 

— particularly inflation — are key to how they are 

thinking about this year’s election. Consumer prices 

have remained high in the U.S., even though the 

job market has been quite stable. For groceries, for 

example, families are paying 25% more than they were 

before the pandemic. 

Raegen Selden has six children ranging from 11 

to 25 years old, and the Philadelphia mother says in 

those 25 years she has been raising children, inflation 

has made this one of the tougher financial times for 

her and her husband despite that they are bringing in 

more money. 

“I feel like it’s harder now because even though I 

am financially where I wasn’t 25 years ago, I feel like 

things have gotten more expensive,” she says. “And so 

if I had to, I guess, go back to that time, I would have 

said that I was doing better back then than I am now.” 

Selden says she wants to see lawmakers address these 

economic pressures on families. 

“Ultimately, this is our future,” she says. “And if we 

don’t make the right decisions now, we’re basically just 

wiping out an entire generation because where will 

they be if we can’t give them just the bare minimum? 

So I think that it absolutely does shape the way that I 

look at this upcoming election.” 

The child tax credit offered a solution during the pandemic 

During the pandemic many families were getting 

significant financial help from the government. 

From July to December 2021, a majority of American 

households with children were given the option of 

getting an advance on the child tax credit paid out in 

monthly installments. The expansion also increased 

the tax credit amount and made it refundable, which 

was a big help to low-income families. 

The expanded child tax credit alleviated some 

of the financial pressure millions of families were 

facing. According to a study from Boston University, 

the expanded tax credit lifted 3 million children out of 

poverty. And according to the Center on Poverty and 

Social Policy, it cut child poverty by 43%. 

Starsky Wilson, president and CEO of the Children’s 

Defense Fund, says the economic benefits for families 

were widespread. 

“Families used their [child tax credit] to pay down 

debt,” he says. “They spent it on their families more 

than saving it, but they used it for basic bills to 

purchase food. ... We know that it helped to stabilize 

more than anything else, food insecurity.” 

Wilson says the rate of food insecurity among eligible 

families dropped by almost 30% when they started 

receiving those monthly payments. “So, it meets basic 

needs,” he says. 

But Congress let that extra help expire, and it 

ended at a time that inflation kept climbing. While 

inflation has started to cool, Wilson says, families are 

still catching up. 

“The economic situation for children and families 

is getting better as inflation eases,” he says. “But you 

have to consider the fact that this significant support 

was taken away at a time when prices were still high. 

And parents have to recover from that.” 

Alicia Gordon, the founder and executive director 

of the Current Project, a nonprofit focused on Black 

single mothers, says what happened in 2021 is proof 

that the government has ways to provide meaningful 


No two hearts 

are the same 

That’s why we have a team of experts who treat a full range 

of cardiovascular conditions and provide customized 

care that fits your individual needs. 

Artwork by Ema Shin. 

Find a physician today, BrowardHealth.org/CardiacCare 

CUSTOM CARDIAC CARE 

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1/31/23 4:33 PM

The Westside Gazette

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