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PERMIT NO. 1179 

The Unstoppable 

Rise of Black 

Women Voters 

Page 6 

THURSDAY, OCTOBER 10 - OCTOBER 16, 2024 

VOL. 53 NO. 36 $1.00 

Milton could bring storm surge 

so dangerous that NHC used a 

rare color on hurricane map 

A MESSAGE FROM 

THE PUBLISHER 

Global Vigils and Protests 

Mark One Year Since 

Hamas Attack on Israel 

By Stacy M. Brown 

NNPA Newswire Senior National Correspondent 

@StacyBrownMedia 

Monday marked the first anniversary of the Hamas-led attack 

on Israel, which resulted in the deaths of approximately 1,200 

people and the abduction of over 200 hostages, according to Israeli 

authorities. According to the Gaza Health Ministry, the surprise 

attack started a protracted conflict in which Israel’s military 

response resulted in at least 41,900 Palestinian deaths and more 

than 97,300 injuries. Over the past year, the war has escalated By Hannah Levitan 

Beach. And during Hurricane Katrina, 

across the region, with Hezbollah launching rockets from Lebanon 

water levels reached between 25 to 28 feet 

and Israeli airstrikes continuing into Lebanon, killing more than As Hurricane Milton quickly along the Mississippi Coast. 

2,000 people. 

approaches Florida, the National Milton ‘going to be a bad event’ 

The conflict has displaced millions, with the United Nations 

Hurricane Center in Miami has forecasted Using the color purple to indicate lifethreatening 

water levels, meteorologists 

storm surge to reach up to 15 feet across 

estimating that over 1 million people in Lebanon alone have been 

parts of Florida’s west-central coast, a predict the storm could reach up to 20 feet 

forced from their homes, including tens of thousands who fled rare peak level in the U.S. 

for Milton. And according Robbie Berg, 

across the border into Syria. As the conflict persists, global vigils The NHC, which forecasts projected a hurricane forecaster for NHC, “Milton 

and protests took place Monday to remember the victims of the peak storm surge levels across swaths has the potential to be one of the most 

October 7 attack and to call for an end to the ongoing violence. of areas expected to be impacted by a destructive hurricanes on record for westcentral 

Florida.” 

Global Commemorations and Protests 

hurricane, has only used graphics calling 

Candlelight vigils spanned the globe, from Tel Aviv to Paris to 

for such a high storm surge, above 12 feet, The last time on record that Tampa had 

in two other instances. 

15 feet of storm surge was in 1848, said 

New York, as communities gathered to honor the lives lost. In the 

Storm surge, often the most dangerous Phil Klotzbach, a hurricane researcher at 

U.S., the Jewish Federation of Greater Nashville hosted an event part of a hurricane, is defined as an Colorado State University. That storm hit 

featuring audio-visual presentations of the destruction and stories unusually high water level caused by a the area in a similar track as the Milton 

of hope and heroism. The program included musical performances tropical cyclone. 

forecast. 

and speeches from community leaders. The Jewish Federation One of the worst surges in history, “Any way you slice it, this is going to be 

of Los Angeles, StandWithUs, and the Israeli American Council caused by Hurricane Opal in 1995, made a bad event,” Klotzbach said. 

organized a similar commemoration in Los Angeles called L.A. 

landfall near Pensacola Beach, where Milton peak surge 10/8 

(Cont’d on page 13) 

tides reached over 24 feet in Fort Walton 


Twin babies who died alongside their 

mother in Georgia are youngestknown 

Hurricane Helene victims 

The streets are flooded near Peachtree Creek after hurricane Helene brought in heavy rains over night 

on September 27, 2024 in Atlanta, Georgia. (Photo by Megan Varner/Getty Images) 

Kobe Williams, 27, and 

her infant sons, Khyzier 

and Khazmir, died while 

sheltering in their trailer 

home in Thomson, Georgia, 

during Hurricane Helene. 

(Source The Grio) 

Obie Williams could hear babies crying and 

branches battering the windows when he answered 

his daughter’s daily phone call last week as 

Hurricane Helene tore through her rural Georgia 

town. 

Kobe Williams, 27, and her newborn twin 

boys were hunkering down at their trailer home in 

Thomson, Georgia, and starting to fear for their safety. 

She promised her (Cont’d on page 14) 

Why More Families Are Choosing Online 

Learning: The Rise of Virtual Pre-K 

By Niyoka McCoy 

NNPA NEWSWIRE — Virtual 

pre-k programs offer a lifeline to 

families who want their children 

to experience the benefits of 

a structured pre-k program 

but face barriers to traditional 

programs. 

If you catch a glimpse of 4- 

and 5-year-olds in attendance 

of a virtual pre-k classroom, 

you may witness a chorus of 

enthusiastic voices singing “The 

User Notes: Water levels along the 

immediate coast could reach the 

following heights above ground 

level within the indicated areas. 

Elevated water levels will likely 

accompanied by large and destructive 

waves. Colors are determined 

the highest values in the associated 

forecast peak surge range. Values 

shown on the graphic are inclusive 

of tide. 

Wheels on the Bus,” with hands 

energetically following the 

motions of their teacher. These 

young learners represent a 

rapidly growing trend of parents 

opting out of the traditional 

classroom setting in favor of 

online learning environments, 

where engaging teachers, family 

involvement, and interactive 

resources create a captivating 

learning experience. 

Continue reading online at: 

thewestsidegazette.com 

By Bobby R. Henry, Sr. 

In just 27 days, we face 

an election that stands as 

one of the most critical in 

our nation’s history. This 

election is not just about 

selecting a candidate—it 

is a vote for the future of 

democracy, civil rights, and 

equality. At stake is the 

rejection of Project 2025, 

an agenda that threatens 

to dismantle decades of 

progress in protecting human 

rights and civil liberties. 

We must understand the 

urgency of what lies ahead: 

the preservation of our 

democratic values, or their 

erosion under the weight of 

extremism. 

The choice before us 

couldn’t be clearer. We see 

one side advocating for 

justice, inclusivity, and the 

continued progress toward 

an America that embraces 

diversity and democracy. On 

the other side, we confront a 

rise in division, regression, 

and the dangerous ideologies 

that align with the “MAGA” 

movement. Figures like 

Donald Trump and J.D. 

Vance promote policies rooted 

in racism, homophobia, and 

a rejection of equal rights. 

This movement threatens 

the very fabric of American 

democracy, representing a 

vision not of greatness, but 

of exclusion and wickedness 

In this context, it’s 

essential to recognize that 

the power of voting is more 

than a symbolic gesture—it is 

in defense of the values that 

make America convincing: 

unified, legitimate, and the 


Thursday 

Oct. 10 th 

Partly Cloudy 

Sunrise: 6:55am 

Fri 

75° 

85° 

Voting for 

Democracy: 

Why This 

Election 

Matters More 

Than Ever 

Christ holds all things 

together amidst chaos -- 

Colossians 1:17 

75° 

85 

74° 

85° 

76 

84° 

78 

87° 

Sunset: 7:51pm 

Sat Sun Mon Tues 

72° 

83° 

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)

PAGE 2 • OCTOBER 10 - OCTOBER 16, 2024 

www.thewestsidegazette.com 

15 Florida Schools Named 2024 

National Blue Ribbon Schools 

Submitted by U.S. Department of Education 

U Celebrates Day of Service with 

e Depot’s “Retool Your School” #1 

The U.S. Department of Education today recognized 356 schools as the 2024 cohort of the 

National Blue Ribbon Schools, including 15 schools in Florida. This prestigious recognition 

highlights schools that excel in academic performance or make significant strides in closing 

y B-CU achievement gaps among concession different student being groups. the postponement of painting and 

stripping the basketball court – a minor hiccup until 

ookman The Florida University schools named more favorable as National weather Blue Ribbon prevails. Schools were: 

significant day of unity Dr. William Berry, Provost and Acting President, 

Boca Raton – A.D. Henderson and Florida Atlantic University High School, FAU Lab School District. 

on Thursday, Jan. 18, expressed excitement and gratitude, stating, “We are 

Bryceville – Bryceville Elementary School, Nassau County School District. 

el and Coral Libby Gables Johnson – George excited Washington about Carver this Middle project School, and grateful Miami Dade to all County those Public who Schools. 

Civic Davie Engagement 

– Somerset Academy Davie Charter School, Broward School District. 

momentous Fernandina occasion Beach – St Michael’s Academy, Diocese of St. Augustine. 

ther students, Florahome faculty, – Q.I. Roberts Jr. - Sr. High School, Putnam School District. 

ni, and Hialeah friends – Jose Marti to Mast 6-12 Academy, Miami-Dade School District. 

e the Jacksonville University’s – Stanton College Preparatory, Duval School District. 

Kissimmee – NeoCity Academy, Osceola School District. 

plishment – securing 

Melbourne – West Shore Junior/Senior High School, Brevard School District. 

position 

Miami – 

in 

HIVE 

Home 

Preparatory School, Miami-Dade School District. 

stigious Miami “Retool – True Your North Classical Academy, Miami-Dade. 

etition Miami and receiving Gardens – a North Dade Center For Modern Languages, Miami-Dade School District. 

60,000 New grant Smyrna dedicated Beach – Coronado Beach Elementary School, Volusia County Schools. 

hancement. Tallahassee – St. John Paul II Catholic High School, Catholic Diocese of Pensacola-Tallahassee. 

ooler temperatures and 

“The National Blue Ribbon Schools Award is a testament to the exceptional achievements 

s, the of collective students and spirit educators at each of these schools,” said U.S. Secretary of Education Miguel 

lmost Cardona. 135 participants, “The 2024 National Blue Ribbon Schools are raising the bar for our nation’s students, 

Depot serving Daytona as models Beach for effective teaching and intentional collaboration in their schools and 

ger Therese communities. Watsoned 

forces we champion in yesterday’s education participated as the foundation in the of vote a brighter for B-CU. future for These every enhancements 

child.” 

As we celebrate their achievements, let us look to these schools for inspiration as 

ffort. Their 2024 mission National will Blue help Ribbon create Schools more reflect vibrant the full and diversity engaging of American spaces education for and 

us, involving 

serve students 

projects 

from all our backgrounds. students to While retreat awardees on campus represent for a a wide brain array break of schools, or they 

share common traits. National Blue Ribbon Schools are led by leaders who articulate a clear 

assembling bookcases find inspiration through the downtime.” 

vision of instructional excellence and uphold high standards. They showcase effective teaching 

utdoor dining sets to Home Depot’s “Retool Your School” program, 

methods and offer robust professional development for their staff. Data-driven instruction is 

arcade a games, hallmark, foosball and there established a concerted in 2009, effort has to ensure been a every beacon student for positive succeeds. change, Collaboration 

etball among hoops, families, hockey communities, providing and over educators $9.25 is a million key component in campus of their improvement 

success. 

le tennis A tables. National Even Blue Ribbon grants School to Historically award flag displayed Black Colleges in a school’s and entryway Universities or on a flagpole 

her conditions is a widely couldn’t recognized (HBCUs). emblem of Beyond exceptional the teaching competition, and learning. the Office These of Alumni schools serve as 

edication, models with of effective the only and innovative practices for educators across nation. 

Continue reading online at: thewestsidegazette.com 

The Department recognizes all schools based on student performance data including 

assessment results, student subgroup performance and graduation rates. Schools are recognized 

rgiveness in both after or either Biden of two performance credited the categories: success The president outlined the 

icated service. Exemplary of High these Performing relief efforts Schools: to These the schools broader are among achievements the top performers of his in their 

lose to state 30,000 as measured corrective by state measures assessments or taken nationally administration normed tests. in supporting 

o have Exemplary been to Achievement address Gap broken Closing student Schools: These students schools excel and in narrowing borrowers, achievement 

for at 

gaps 

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student groups 

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and the overall 

including 

student body. 

achieving the most 

Each nominated school submits a comprehensive application detailing its school culture, 

out receiving that these fixes have removed significant increases in Pell 

programs, assessments, instructional practices, professional development, leadership, family, 

income-driven and community barriers involvement. preventing borrowers Grants in over a decade, aimed 

s will now Up see to 420 from schools accessing may be the nominated relief they each year. Continue The Department reading online invites nominations 

at: 

iven. for the National were Blue entitled Ribbon to Schools under award the law. from the thewestsidegazette.com 

top education official in all states, the 

District of Columbia, 

U.S. territories, 

College 

the Department of 

Defense Education 

quiescent 

Activity, and the 

aggregate Bureau of Indian 

Word of 

Education. Private 

[ kwee-es-uhnt, (noun) kwahy- schools ] are nominated 

the Week 

by the Council for 

1 

a mass or body of units of parts somewhat loosely associated American Private 

with one another. adjective 

2 the whole sum or amountl HOW sum TO total USE QUIESCENT Continue IN A reading 

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thewestsidegazette. 

being at rest; 

HOW 

inactive 

TO USE IN 

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motionless; - Use aggregate quiet; for the still: first layer a when long filling quiescentperiods the trench. may also have 

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subtle but protracted warning periods 

as well. 

Prep 

Word Search 

List Compiled 

by Kamar 

Jackson, 

Freshmen 

at Dillard 

High School 

Word List 

compiled by 

Kamar Jackson 

Kinship Family 

Conference 2024 

By Staff Writer 

On Saturday, September 28, the 

Kinship Family Conference and the 

Children’s Services Council held a 

community event at the Mt. Hermon 

AME Church Life Center in Fort 

Lauderdale. You knew it was a 

community-driven event because it was 

structured to accommodate the clients 

and targeted community with benefits 

and information available from 9:00am 

to 3:00pm 

As we (WG staff) entered the edifice 

and having no preconceived notions 

or expectations, we were immediately 

captivated by the ambiance of the 

setting, easily characterized as 

warm, inviting, compassionate and 

loving. The table decor and aroma of 

a much anticipated lunch were perfect; 

however, the delightful overwhelming, 

tranquil atmosphere we soon realized 

emanated from the awesome employees 

and caregivers associated with these 

benevolent organizations. We felt it and 

saw it in the eyes and facial expressions 

of each that we observed or came in 

contact with as they went about their 

individual responsibilities. 

You understand immediately or in a 

very short period of time the love, dedication 

and commitment for their clients, children 

victimized by unfortunate circumstances not 

of their own doing, innocent and vulnerable. 

We observed personally a young girl who broke 

away from her caregiver, ran on stage where 

agency representatives were discussing legal 

aid services they provide, then proceeded to 

run unrestrained throughout the assembly, 

oblivious to surroundings. The caregivers, 

aware of the young girl’s challenges, resolved 

the issue with patience and sensitivity, 

confirming our initial impression. 

Cindy Arenberg Seltzer, President and 

CEO of Children Services Council, graciously 

answered some important questions posed 

by Westside Gazette staffer, Sonia Henry- 

Robinson. 

WG: As the President/CEO, what personal 

connection do you have to the kinship family 

community? 

President/CEO Arenberg-Seltzer: I was 

very close to my grandparents and my extended 

family. When the late Carole Andrews (School 

Board Member and Founding CSC Council 

Member) brought this issue to my attention 

early in CSC’s existence, I was amazed at 

how prevalent Kinship care was. Hearing the 

stories of the families was very moving and 

we knew we needed to do something to help 

these overlooked families. It has been very 

gratifying to see the impact these programs 

have had. 

WG: What do you believe is the most critical 

issue facing kinship families today? 

President/CEO Arenberg-Seltzer: One of 

Legal Aid Service of Broward County, panel of 

presenters -- L to R: Luz Maria-Montero, Attorney, 

Legal Aid Service of Broward County; Elisaveta 

Alexieva, Lead Attorney, Kinship Project, Legal 

Aid Service of Broward County; Walter Honaman, 

Program Director, Legal Aid Service of Broward 

County; Sarah Baker, Attorney, Legal Aid Service 

of Broward County; Ivan Parra, Attorney, Legal Aid 

Service of Broward County; and Elizabeth Adorno, 

Legal Aid Service of Broward County. 

Phyllis Harris from Kinship Cares Initiatives standing 

in front of Broward Health Mobile Van. 

the most pressing issues for Broward’s kinship 

families is the rapidly rising cost of living in 

South Florida, with housing as the largest 

expense. 

WG: How do you envision the conference 

impacting the broader community? 

President/CEO Arenberg-Seltzer: If a 

child cannot live with their parents, they 

benefit from remaining with family who 

keep them connected to their culture and 

community. Kinship caregivers are those 

family members or close family friends who 

are part of that child’s village. The conference 

is an opportunity for Broward’s Kinship 

Village to gather and build social connections 

while Kinship Support agencies pour into 

their cups with information, resources, and 

appreciation. When the Kinship Village is 

supported, Broward’s children thrive. We also 

hope to inform all Broward’s families about the 

wonderful Kinship Support Programs available 

through KID Inc., Harmony Development 

Center, Memorial Health Systems, Legal Aid 

of Broward County, and Broward Health’s 

Kinship Cares Initiative, so they know where 

to get help if they ever need it. 

WG: How can attendees stay connected with 

the kinship family community after the 

conference? 

Presiden/CEO Arenberg-Seltzer: For more 

information about Kinship Support and 

Services, contact any of the CSC funded 



Broward County Public Schools Celebrates 

National School Lunch Week October 14–18, 2024 

BROWARD COUNTY, FL – Broward County Public Schools 

(BCPS) is celebrating National School Lunch Week (NSLW) from 

Oct. 14–18, 2024, in recognition of the National School Lunch 

Program (NSLP), which serves nearly 30 million children across 

the country each day. The 2024 theme, “School Lunch Pirates: 

Find Your Treasure,” highlights 

the importance of a healthy school 

lunch to a student’s success in and 

out of the classroom. The week will 

feature fun-filled student activities 

and Districtwide events promoting 

healthy eating while highlighting why 

students love school lunches. 

BCPS NSLW includes the following 

events. 

An official proclamation by the 

Broward County School Board, 

declaring Oct. 14–18, 2024, as NSLW. 

A poster contest for BCPS students 

in all grade levels. The artwork must 

be completed by October 14 and 

should reflect what the NSLW theme 

means to them. 

An award ceremony will be held to 

name and award prizes to the contest 

winners for each grade level. 

Contest winners will have their 

artwork displayed in the School Board 

Room of the Kathleen C. Wright 

Administration Center. They will also 

receive a rosette ribbon and attend 

a special reception. The Grand Prize 

winner will receive an iPad. 

“We are thrilled to celebrate 

National School Lunch Week and 

highlight the work our Food & 

Nutrition Services professionals do 


thewestsidegazette.com

Deeply Rooted 

Haitian immigrants find new footholds, and 

familiar backlash, in the Midwest, South 


OCTOBER 10 - OCTOBER 16, 2024 • PAGE 3 

Residents of Springfield, Ohio, voice their concerns during a town hall about 

the presidential election’s focus on the town’s influx of Haitian immigrants 

on Sept. 24. (Photo credit: DOMINIC GWINN/MIDDLE EAST IMAGES/AFP/ 

GETTY IMAGES/TNS) 

By Tim Henderson/Stateline.org/TNS 

(Source: Daytona Times) 

Fortified with work authorizations and a new freedom, Haitian 

immigrants are moving out of their longtime strong-holds in 

Florida and New York, often finding good jobs while remaining 

wary of how they will be received in new places in the Midwest 

and South. 

This movement helps explain why Haitian immigrants in 

Springfield, Ohio, have become embroiled in the presidential 

election. For several weeks, Republican presidential and vice 

presidential nominees Donald Trump and J.D. Vance have 

spread untrue rumors about Haitian immigrants in the city 

eating their neighbors’ cats and dogs. 

Until recently, “we were counting Haitians in the dozens,” 

said Leonce Jean-Baptiste, who helped launch the Haitian 

Association of Indiana in 2008. The association’s aim: “Just 

making sure that our children would know there is such a 

Attorney FritzGerald Tondreau, who 

helps with immigration issues at 

Konbit Neg Lakay in Spring Valley, 

N.Y., shows intimidating videos of 

gang hostages and enemies being 

killed or beaten in Haiti. As a new 

wave of immigrants fleeing chaos 

arrives, many are moving beyond 

New York and Florida to find jobs 

and housing. (Photo credit: TIM HENDERSON/ 

STATELINE/TNS) 

thing as Haitian culture, that their parents come from a very strong, very rich culture and ethnic background,” 

he said. 

Now, the association has its hands full helping new arrivals with housing and learning the ways of the Midwest, 

Jean-Baptiste said. Immigrants are coming to fill factory jobs in Indiana, a trend that started in the pandemic. 

“Here in Indiana, in Ohio, in the Midwest in general, the manufacturing industry was desperate for labor and 

so it was a perfect kind of marriage,” Jean-Baptiste said. “Haitians were looking for jobs, they might have lost 

a low-paying job in a hotel in Florida, they can’t access government benefits because they’re not citizens, and 

here they can do better.” 

Moving for jobs, housing 

With more Haitian immigrants free to work legally anywhere because of work permissions granted under the 

Biden administration, many moved from off-the-books jobs in Florida or New York to factory work in states 

such as Indiana, North Carolina, Ohio, Texas and Virginia. 

Those states had some of the most significant increases in Haitian immigrant population between 2019 and 

2023, the most recent estimates available from the American Community Survey, according to a Stateline 

analysis. 

In that time, the Haitian immigrant population in Indiana increased eight-fold, to 12,465; almost fourfold in 

North Carolina, to 7,752; more than doubled in Texas, to 7,010; more than tripled in Ohio, to 5,264; more than 

doubled in Virginia, to 6,342; and nearly fivefold in South Carolina, to 2,569. 

Meanwhile, more established strongholds where the most Haitian immigrants live are seeing less growth: New 

York (up 5%), Florida (up 1%) and Massachusetts (down 1%). 

“The situation in New York is that the cost of living and the cost of housing is shutting out the new Haitians. 

They are moving where there are jobs and there is housing — I know people who have gone to North Carolina, 

South Carolina,” said Francois Pierre-Louis, a Haitian-born professor of international migration studies at the 

Queens College campus of the City University of New York. 

Those staking out new territory in the Midwest tend to be more established immigrants who already know 

enough English to get by, Pierre-Louis said. 

“To be able to move to the hinterlands, you have to have a level of cultural understanding of the U.S. to be 

comfortable,” he added. 

‘It’s always been a struggle’ 

In Florida and New York, where about two-thirds of the country’s Haitian immigrants still live, more established 

immigrants with their own memories of discrimination are helping new immigrants get established. 

Mayor Alix Desulme of North Miami, Florida — the city with the highest concentration of Haitian Americans, 

about 38% in recent years — recalls being taunted as a boy when he arrived in Brooklyn, New York, by people 

who falsely believed Haitians were spreading AIDS. 


Prisons offer free high school 

diplomas for inmates via 

new tablet program 

Submitted by Kate Payne 

(Source: Miami Times) 

Many prisons throughout the U.S. 

charge their inmates a fee to use a tablet 

or phone, though some corporations 

are beginning to make such access free 

to incarcerated persons for educational 

purposes. 

A top supplier of digital devices 

in U.S. prisons is launching a 

new program to help incarcerated 

individuals earn a high school diploma 

by using the company’s tablets. 

Advocates say the expansion 

in virtual education is promising, 

especially since many inmates lack 

basic literacy skills. But some advocates 

have said there are limits to what that 

prison technology can accomplish. 

The company ViaPath, which sells 

secure devices and telecommunications 

services for use in the criminal justice 

system, has announced that inmates 

across the country will soon be able 

to enroll in virtual classes through a 

partnership with Promising People, 

an education technology company, and 

American High School, a private online 

school based in South Florida that will 

grant the diplomas. 

The asynchronous classes will be 

available for free on ViaPath’s tablets, 

700,000 of which the company says are 

already in use in nearly 2,000 prisons 

and jails. 

“If you get a high school diploma, 

you get a secondary education along 

with some trades and skills. The 

likelihood of you recidivating back into 

our prisons are very small,” said Tony 

Lowden, Chief Social Impact Officer 

for ViaPath. “We believe there’s an 

opportunity to help men and women 

come home differently.” 

A meta-analysis by the RAND 

Corporation found that education 

significantly reduces recidivism, 

suggesting that every $1 invested in 

education in prisons could save $4-5 on 

reincarceration costs. 



Delicate 

AS AN ORCHID, YET 

BRAVE AS A 

By Blessed 

LION 

She is my orchid an orchid is a person 

in your life whose personality and 

presents reminds you of the beauty in the 

world and the beauty inside humanity. 

Orchids are of supreme importance to 

the fluidity and progression of human 

existence, because through their work in our lives we are reminded that we 

have obligations to fulfill in the lives of those whom God has assigned us to. 

Hopelessness has a heartbeat; in the pitch black of my nights, I can hear 

that heartbeat hovering over my head. Faithlessness is a snake, constantly 

slithering through the gardens of our minds, waiting to sink its teeth into 

the Divine thoughts which empower us to give CPR to our souls. 

That is the Dark World in which I live, where the Sonya Massey and 

George Floyd’s don’t have cameras to record the last moments of their lives 

for the footage to continue to cry out for justice denied. My environment is 

dark, many mornings I wake up with my soul dehydrated from a night of 

stumbling through the desert of misdirection, as my situation systemically 

tries to confuse me about where my life should be and how to get there.. can 

you relate? I live in a mental, spiritual, and literal Matrix where regrets 

work daily to cannibalize your resolve to rise beyond your circumstances. 

I’m in a living graveyard a Bermuda Triangle where the dead bodies of 

yesterday’s public schools to prison pipeline can be found. The autopsies 

would reveal that most of these souls died inside the womb of a malignant 

society the umbilical cords of social economic imbalance wrapped around their necks choking 

them in the womb of inner-city war zones. But this article isn’t a trumpet being blown as a 

reminder of the multifaceted realms of decay embedded in our social systems. This article is 

a celebration of the orchids God plants in our social gardens, people who have tapped into a 

beautiful resplendent light within themselves and live their lives intentionally signing the 

light in the darkest crevices of the social gardens of our fallen Edens. 

I’ll try my best to be an orchid but many mornings I wake up punch drunk from the fight 

dazed and confused from the body blows delivered by a social system designed to destroy me. 

I wake up many mornings gasping for air desperately calling for the thin strands of light 

streaming into the darkness. Yesterday I spent my entire day working to diffuse a situation 

moving at warp speed designed to leave a 23-year-old young Black man stabbed to death by 

28-year-old Black man. 

I woke up this morning like many other mornings spiritually drained and struggling to 

see the beauty in humanity and desperately trying to hold on to the beauty within myself. I’ve 

lost count of the Sonia Massey and George Floyd scenarios. I have witnessed crew murders 

and during a season in my life when I was losing the battle to stay true to my commitment 

to get up and pour my light into people and their struggles she walked through the door. 

I can’t afford to allow you to treat your lies or sexualize my fascination with this woman. 

While she does have the most beautiful skin, eyes like sapphires, hair like silk and the facial 

beauty of a goddess more hypnotic than the power of her femininity is her inner beauty. To 

understand the powerful woman she is and the power she lives in I first must educate you 

to these facts. After just a few weeks of working as an officer in a prison most people spiral 

into the worst version of themselves. Go watch the movie the Stanford Prison project a true 

story about an experiment carried out by the Stanford Psychology Department, where within 

hours of an experiment where students play the role of prison inmates and others as prison 

guards in a section of the school used as a makeshift prison, those students, and professors 

playing the role of guards were verbally, emotionally, and sexually abusing the students 

playing the role of inmates. Abuse got so intense that the experiment which was intended to 

be a two-week experiment had to be shut down within three days. 

To detail the psychological and emotional abuse we have to navigate daily at the hands of 

staff would require 10 articles. To give mentally unstable and immature people unchecked 

Continue reading online at: thewestsidegazette.com


Westside Gazette 

Calendar of Events 

Deeply Rooted 

LOCAL HAPPENINGS IN 

BROWARD MIAMI-DADE 

AND PALM BEACH 

COUNTIES 

HAVE YOUR COMMUNITY EVENTS 

PLACED ON THIS PAGE 

email:wgproof@thewestsidegazette.com 

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

Celebrate Announcements: 

Call -- (954) 525-1489 

Happy Birthday * Weddings 

* Anniversaries 

Retirements * Congratulations 

Dear CEA Volunteers and Community Partners, 

We are thrilled to announce the launch of Tutoring 

Tuesdays next month! This initiative will offer one-onone 

and group sessions, homework assistance, and test 

prep to support our students in achieving academic 

success throughout the school year. We’re looking for 

dedicated volunteers to help in all areas—your support 

will make a real difference! 

Please consider volunteering and sharing this opportunity 

with your network of potential students and volunteers. 

More information, including the official kickoff 

date, will be sent in a separate email. 

Students can register here: https://forms.gle/FDkHzikht- 

3vfavXg9, and volunteers can reach out to me directly 

via email. 

Location & Time: New Mount Olive Baptist Church (4th 

Floor), 400 NW 9th Ave, Fort Lauderdale, FL 33311 4:30 

p.m.to 6:30 p.m. 

FULL 

COURSE 

LUNCH 


CBTU SOUTH FL PRESENTS 

$ 20 

ENTRY FEE 

JUMBO 

BINGO 

CARD 

OCTOBER 12, 2024 

11-2PM 

TEAMSTERS 769 

12365 W. DIXIE HWY 

NORTH MIAMI, FL 33161 

Church Announcement 

Mark your calendars and make plans to attend Holy 

Convocation 2024 at Judah Worship Word Ministries International, 

4441 W. Sunrise Blvd., Plantation, FL 33313. Holy 

Convocation 2024 will be held Thursday, October 10th 

– Saturday, October 12th, 2024. The Convocation will include 

informative clinics Thursday and Friday mornings at 

11 AM and power packed evening services at 7:30 PM. 

The convocation will end Saturday morning, October 12th 

at 10:00 AM with a special ceremony for those receiving 

ministerial licenses. 

We anticipate a mighty move of God’s power as his presence 

fills the sanctuary in worship and praise at this great 

gathering of God’s people from near and far. Everyone is 

cordially invited to attend these exciting and uplifting services. 

For more information, please contact Apostle W. L. Mitchell, 

Host and Senior Pastor at (954) 415-0521 or email her at 

judah4441@gmail.com. 

Blessing of the Pets Saturday, Oct. 12, 

2024 from 10 a.m .to 2 p.m., at United 

Church of Christ, 2501 NE 30 St., Fort 

Lauderdale, FL 33306. Parents allowed 

too! 

* Pet Services 

*Pet-Sitting info, Dog 

Walkers, etc. 

* Pet Supply Retailer 

* Adoption Agencies 

To Have Westside Gazette Newspaper Delivery to your home 

call-- (954) 525-1489 

Follow @TheWestsideGazette Newspaper on Social Media 

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

STAY 

CONNECTED -- 

www.thewestsidegazette.com


Black Student to Attend the 

Same HBCU That Her Great 

Grandfather Founded in 1912 

Source: BlackNews.com) 

NATIONWIDE — 

Jade DeMelody Jackson, 

a journalist with The 

Indianapolis Star, recently 

revealed on an Instagram 

post to announce her return 

to higher education as an 

official MBA candidate at 

Deeply Rooted 

Jarvis Christian University. 

This milestone is particularly 

significant for Jackson because 

her great-grandfather, 

Thomas Buchanan Frost, was 

one of the people who founded 

the university over a century 

ago. 

“I’m officially an MBA 

candidate at Jarvis Christian 

University this fall. It’s back 

to school for me at the same 

HBCU my great-grandfather 

founded in 1912,” Jackson 

shared with her followers. 

According to Because of Them 

We Can, Jarvis Christian 



BLACK VOTERS MATTER COMMITS $300,000 TO DIVINE 9 

ORGANIZATIONS FOR GOTV EFFORTS IN KEY STATES 

National voting rights 

organization is committed to 

having boots on the ground 

to increase Black voter 

turnout in upcoming election 

Submitted by Nomsa 

Hampton 


FAMU Celebrates its137th Anniversary 

with Wreath Laying Ceremony 

FAMU Interim President Timothy L. Beard, Ph.D., was joined by three former 

university presidents to lay a wreath in honor of FAMU’s 137th Anniversary. Pictured 

L-R: Fred Gainous, Ph. D. (2002-2004), Beard (current), Larry Robinson, Ph.D. (2017- 

2024), and Henry Lewis, Ph.D. (2002). 

Submitted by FAMU Public Relations 

GEORGIA – Recently, Black 

Voters Matter (BVM) is proud 

to announce a commitment of 

$300,000 to support get-outthe-vote 

(GOTV) initiatives 

led by Divine 9 organizations 

in eleven critical states. 

This investment is part of 

a previously announced 

$15 million spend aimed at 

building power and increasing 

Black voter turnout in the 

2024 election cycle. 

The Divine 9, which includes 

Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity 

Inc., Alpha Kappa Alpha 

Sorority Inc., Kappa Alpha Psi 

Fraternity Inc., Delta Sigma 

Theta Sorority Inc., Omega 



TALLAHASSEE, FL -- The Florida A&M University (FAMU) community gathered together 

to celebrate Founders Day and 137 years of “Excellence with Caring” during a wreath laying 

ceremony at the eternal flame. 

Student Government Association President Loryn May served as mistress of ceremonies, 

and SGA Vice President Dakarai Williams welcomed the audience of students, alumni, faculty 

and staff. He described what it means to be a part of the FAMU legacy. 

“I stand before you today as someone whose life has been shaped and inspired by this 

incredible institution. It was here amidst history and tradition that I found a second home,” 

said Williams. “Today is not just about reflecting on our rich history, it is about acknowledging 

how far we’ve come and recognizing the commitment to push forward and to be greater.” 

FAMU Interim President Timothy L. Beard, Ph.D. was joined by three former university 

presidents to lay a wreath of orange and green flowers in front of the eternal flame: Larry 

Robinson, Ph.D. (2017-2024), Fred Gainous, Ph. D. (2002-2004), and Henry Lewis, Ph.D. (2002). 

Next, the audience was serenaded by students from the FAMU Essential Theatre, who 

presented a stirring rendition of the Black National Anthem interspersed with reflections from 

FAMU’s storied history. 

In closing, President Beard thanked the faculty and staff while acknowledging the institution’s 

position as a top 4 percent academic leader among all public universities. FAMU rose 10 spots to 

No. 81 on the US News and World Report list of Top Public Schools, which Beard described as a 

testament to the blood, sweat and tears of those who paved the way before us. 


KAMALA HARRIS 

OFFERS A NEW 

GENERATION OF 

LEADERSHIP 

She plans to give: 

$50K tax deduction for 

new business owners 

$6K to young families 

in the first year of their 

child’s life 

$25K in down payment 

assistance for first time 

home buyers 

Trump has no plan. 

During his presidency, the 

Black unemployment rate 

was at an all time high 

His Project 2025 agenda 

would roll back civil 

rights policies that offer 

opportunity for Black 

Americans 

He uses race to divide us, 

scapegoating Black & Brown 

communities 

She believes in what is possible. He’s more 

interested in defending himself than looking out 

for you. Let’s turn the page and move forward. 

Visit KamalaHarris.com


WESTSIDE 

GAZETTE 

Bobby R. Henry, Sr. 

NEWSPAPER STAFF 

PUBLISHER 

Sonia Henry-Robinson 

COMPTROLLER 

Tawanna C. Taylor 

ADMINISTRATIVE 

ASST. 

Pamela D. Henry 

SENIOR EDITOR 

Arri D. Henry 

CREATIVE DIRECTOR 

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: 


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Largest African 

American Owned and 

Operated 

Newspaper Serving 

Broward - Miami-Dade 

and Palm Beach Counties 

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Fort Lauderdale, FL 

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Mailing Address: 

P.O. Box 5304 

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OFFICE (954) 525-1489 

FAX: (954) 525-1861 

E-MAIL ADDRESS: 

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COMMUNITY DIGEST 

wgproof@thewestsidegazette.com 

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brhsr@thewestsidegazette.com 

PROUD MEMBERS OF THE: 

NATIONAL NEWSPAPER 

PUBLISHERS 

ASSOCIATION (NNPA) 

AND FLORIDA 

ASSOCIATION 

OF BLACK OWNED MEDIA 

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Newspaper is Published 

Weekly by Bi-Ads. Inc. DBA 

Subscription Rates: $50 

Annual $1.00 per copy 

CREDO -The BlackPress 

beieves that American 

best lead the world away 

from racial and national 

antagonisms when it accords 

to every person, regarless of 

race, color or creed, full human 

and legal rights. Hating 

no person, feaing 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 

legible name along with 

a compete address and 

phone number. No unsigned 

letters will be 

considered for 

publication. 


reserves the right to edit 

letters. Letters should be 

500 words or less. 

The Unstoppable Rise 

of Black Women Voters 

By Glynda C. Carr 

As we approach this critical 

election season, a remarkable 

story unfolds across America. 

Young Black women are not 

just registering to vote at 

unprecedented rates - they’re 

poised to make their voices 

heard at the ballot box like 

never before. With a staggering 

175% increase in voter 

registration according to recent 

data from TargetSmart, this 

surge is not just a statistic; it’s 

a powerful statement about the 

future of our democracy and a 

continuation of Black women’s 

longstanding commitment to 

civic engagement. 

For nearly fifteen years, Higher Heights has been at the 

forefront of empowering Black women politically. We’ve 

witnessed firsthand the transformative power of Black 

women’s leadership and civic participation. Now, as we face 

one of the most consequential elections in recent history, the 

importance of our mission - and the critical need to Get Out 

The Vote (GOTV) - has never been clearer. 

The road from Mayor to the White House is powered 

by Black women. With 16 million of us eligible to vote, and 

consistently higher turnout rates than most other groups, we 

have been the determining factor in many races. Our voices 

and our votes have shaped the political landscape, leading to 

historic firsts: 

● The first Black woman Vice President 

● 

● 

The first Black woman on the Supreme Court 

30 Black women in Congress 

Yet, our work is far from done. We still have only one 

appointed Black woman in the U.S. Senate, zero Black 

women Governors, and we’ve yet to see a Black woman in 

the Oval Office. We are winning, but we have not yet won. 

The surge in voter registration among young Black 

women is a testament to the power of our collective voice 

and the urgency of this moment. But registration is just 

the first step. Now, our focus must shift to ensuring every 

registered voter casts their ballot. 

But why do Black women consistently show up at the polls 

in such high numbers? Recent polling with HIT Strategies 

provides insight: 

We know our power. 80% of Black women surveyed 

believe we have the power to make change on issues that 

matter most to our communities. 

We demand greater representation. 82% of Black women 

said it’s important to them that Black women be elected and 

nominated to more positions of power in our government. 

We are motivated by pressing issues. From the rising cost 

of housing to restrictions on abortion access to threats on 

honest education for our children, Black women are far from 

single-issue voters. 

We honor our history. We vote to honor the blood, sweat, 

and tears of those who fought for our right to vote. 

We’re more motivated than ever. Nearly two-thirds of 

Black women said they are more motivated to vote now than 

ever before. 

But perhaps most importantly, we understand the ripple 

effect of our engagement. As I often say, “When you fire up a 

Black woman, she does not go to the polls alone, she brings 

her house, her block, her church, her sorority, and union.” This 

multiplier effect is the secret weapon of Black women’s political 

power and the key to successful GOTV efforts. 

At Higher Heights, we see this surge as both a challenge 

and an opportunity. It’s a challenge to ensure that every 

registered voter actually casts their ballot. It’s an opportunity 

to harness this energy and enthusiasm to drive meaningful 

change in our communities and our country. 

As we look ahead to Election Day, we’re focused on key 

races that can protect, defend, and expand Black women’s 

representation. Our GOTV efforts are in full swing, 

including: 

● Phone banking and text banking campaigns 

● Ride-to-the-polls programs 

● Community outreach events 

● Social media campaigns to raise awareness about voting 

deadlines and locations 

● Partnerships with local organizations to provide childcare 

and other support services on Election Day 

But our work goes beyond election day. Through our Sunday 

Brunches, convenings, and debate watch efforts, we’re building 

a community of educated, engaged Black women who are 

ready to lead. We’re tapping into networks of historically Black 

sororities and professional organizations, creating a powerful 

coalition of change-makers. 

The surge in voter registration we’re seeing today results 

from years of grassroots organizing, community building, and 

relentless advocacy. It’s a reminder that when Black women 

lead, democracy wins. Now, our task is to translate this 

registration surge into record-breaking turnout. 

As we ramp up our GOTV efforts, let’s recognize this 

moment for what it is: a turning point. The rising tide of Black 

women voters is not just changing elections—it’s changing the 

face of American democracy. We at Higher Heights are proud 

to be at the forefront of this transformative movement. 

To every Black woman who has registered to vote, who is 

planning to vote, who is encouraging others to vote, who is 

considering running for office, or who is simply engaging in 

political discourse: your voice matters. Your vote matters. You 

are the change we’ve been waiting for. 

The path to a more representative, more equitable democracy 

runs through the ballot box. This election season, let’s commit 

to turning this surge into a tidal wave of civic engagement. We 

may be tired, but we continue to soldier on, often shouldering 

the responsibility of safeguarding our democracy and keeping 

our country on the right path. 

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. 

Melania’s Destiny with Democracy 

“How does someone unfit and unstable rise to lead a nation? Its when 

voters choose to turn a blind eye.” John Johnson II .. 10/09/24 

By John Johnson II 

The Book of 

Esther tells a 

divine story of 

how Queen 

Esther, the 

beautiful wife of 

King Ahasuerus 

of Persia, and 

her cousin Mordecai saved 

the Jewish people. King 

Ahasuerus’ Chief Minister, 

Haman, plotted and schemed 

to convince the King to 

murder Jews throughout the 

empire. However, will former 

First Lady Melania’s destiny 

with Democracy involve 

saving Democracy? 

Esther’s scriptures remain 

highly read, discussed, and 

a central topic for religious 

sermons. Its lessons 

demonstrate that one living 

under a foreign power can 

form a community bond. Such 

a bond led to Esther’s and 

Mordecai’s heroic actions to 

save the Jewish people. 



Black Voters are 

A Cornerstone 

of America’s 

Rights and 

Democracy 

By Roger Caldwell 

W i t h 

only four 

w e e k s 

left before 

voters head 

to the polls, 

the public 

at-large 

and Black 

voters in 

particular 

are targeted with an 

unprecedented volume of lies 

and disinformation. Since 

Black voters must receive 

accurate knowledge and 

information to safeguard our 

rights, our communities must 

be equipped with truth and 

facts. 

In 2024, the presidential 

election must be built on the 

foundation of fair and truthful 

elections, but Donald Trump 

and JD Vance appear to be 

trying to out lie each other. As 

Vice President Kamala Harris 

and Governor Walz fight to 

protect American children 



The Fragments of the 

World Seek Each Other 

By Robert C. Koehler 

“Driven 

by the 

forces of 

love, the 

fragments 

of the 

world seek 

each other 

so that the 

world may 

come into being.” 

These words of Pierre 

Teilhard de Chardin, from his 

book The Phenomenon of Man, 

may well be worth meditating 

on every day. The forces of . . . 

love? That is to say, the forces 

of connection, the need to be 

part of an evolving whole. 

Perhaps this is my mission 

in life: to help free these 

words from the academic cage 

that contains them. My God, 

this isn’t just “philosophy.” 

These words are geopolitical 

— even though the core 

concept here . . . love . . . has 

been linguistically belittled 

the moment it steps beyond 

the personal. At best, it’s an 

abstraction: “love of country,” 



Cracking Open Gender’s 

Role in Electing Presidents 

By Rob Okun 

Vice President Kamala Harris’s dramatic entry 

into the presidential race in July—including 

selecting Minnesota Gov. Tim Walz as her 

running mate—put a new twist on the already 

gendered nature of the election. A woman was 

now at the top of the ticket. 

Instead of Donald Trump’s and JD Vance’s 

misogynous manhood solely driving the media narrative, there 

was now a new story line: not only was a Black, south Asian 

woman the nominee, there also was a counternarrative: the 

egalitarian expression of manhood embodied by Walz and 

Doug Emhoff. 

From the GOP convention theme song, “It’s a Man’s World,” 

to Hulk Hogan’s ridiculous tribute to old school manhood, 

the Trump campaign gambled that their brand of “tough” 

masculinity would be a winning strategy against President 

Biden’s perceived “weak” portrayal of manhood. But Trump 

was caught up short when—just three days after his convention 

ended—he was facing a woman. 

Into this fraught political moment comes a thought-provoking 

film exploring presidential masculinity. The Man Card: 50 

Years of Gender, Power & the American Presidency, is rich 

with content and context for voters to make sense of the gender 

politics playing out in the election. 

Created by educator-author, Jackson Katz, The Man Card was 

originally released in 2020. The updated and expanded 2024 

version crackles with urgency now that Kamala Harris is 

Trump’s opponent. 


TRUMP WANTS BLACK 

MALES TO VOTE FOR HIM 

WHAT DO THEY HAVE TO LOSE? A HELL OF A LOT 

By Michael A. Grant 

(TriceEdneyWire.com)-- Looking 

historically at demographics, Black 

men in America have for centuries 

been singled out for the most vicious 

and dehumanizing attacks on their 

personhood and their manhood. 

Without delving too deeply into 

America’s dark past, one need only to 

read the Autobiography of Frederick 

Douglas to capture a glimpse of the 

atrocious acts perpetrated against 

Black men that began during slavery 

and continued unabated with the murders of George Floyd, 

Michael Brown, Eric Garner and others to understand that the 

institutional animosity, the stereotyping and the marginalizing 

is an everyday phenomenon that still defines the day-to-day 

existence of many Black men struggling to survive in America. 

Donald Trump continues to perpetuate a “Guilty until 

proven innocent” mentality that too many in authority still 

perpetuate. His record of racist and derogatory behavior 

toward Black men is well-documented. To begin, he and his 

father discriminated against African Americans who wanted to 

rent Trump apartments in New York. 


Prevention is Better Than Cure: 

Addressing Black Men’s Health 

By Keith Dobbins, Atlanta 

Coordinator for The 

African American Male 

Wellness Agency 

Through the hustle of daily 

life comes the story of Brian R. 

serves as a poignant reminder 

of the importance of proactive 

health awareness, especially 

within the Black community. 

A close friend from Ohio, 

Brian has always been a 

picture of health, maintaining 

a slim physique well into 

his late 40s and early 50s. 

However, a gradual weight 

gain went unnoticed until 

he participated in the Black 

Men’s Wellness Day and 5K 

Race in Atlanta. 

Encouraged to undergo a 

series of health screenings, 

Brian discovered alarming 

spikes in his wellness 

numbers, revealing the 

hidden fragility of his heart. 

The onsite doctors’ urgent 

advice led him to seek 

further medical evaluation, 

ultimately resulting in lifesaving 

heart bypass surgery. 

Brian’s journey underscores 

not only the critical 

need for regular health 

check-ups but also the vital 

role community events play 

in fostering awareness and 

preventive care among Black 

men. His transformation is 

a testament to the power of 

Keith Dobbins 

knowledge and the impact of 

prioritizing health, a message 

that resonates deeply in 

discussions about Black men’s 

health. 

In the realm of health 

and wellness, the mantra 

“prevention is better than 

cure” resonates profoundly, 

especially when we examine 

the alarming health 

disparities faced by Black 

men in the United States. 

The statistics are stark: 

approximately 70% of the 

diseases that lead to premature 

death among Black 

men are preventable. This 

reality not only underscores 

the urgent need for proactive 

health measures but also 

highlights the critical 




BUSINESS 

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 


Is Now The Time To Buy? What The Interest 

Rate Cut Means For Black Homebuyers 

The latest rate cut sounds great, but what’s the real impact for 

Black homebuyers? Here’s what you need to consider. 

By Kimberly Wilson 

(Source: Essence) 

Buying a home is one of 

the biggest financial decisions 

you’ll ever make, and for 

Black homebuyers, it often 

comes with additional layers 

of complexity. 

As a first-time homebuyer, 

I jumped at the chance to buy 

my home back in 2021 when 

interest rates were at historic 

lows. It felt like everything 

was lining up: a house I loved, 

Happy woman showing house keys standing in front of door. 

a price that worked for my 

budget, and finally—interest 

rates that were manageable. 

But here we are in 2024, and 

things look very different. 

Rates have been climbing, 

housing prices are still skyhigh, 

and it’s a tougher call to 

make. So, if you’re considering 

buying, what exactly does the 

recent rate cut mean for Black 

homebuyers? 

So, with the Federal 

Reserve’s recent interest rate 

cuts, the question is: is now 

the right time to buy? Let’s 

dig into what this means for 

Black homebuyers who are 

weighing the pros and cons of 

making a move. 

Historically, homeownership 

has been one of the 

main pathways to building 

generational wealth, but for 

Black Americans, accessing 

that pathway has been a 

struggle. As of Q2 2024, the 

homeownership rate for Black 

households is just 45.3%— 

significantly lower than the 

74.4% for White Americans. 

This homeownership gap has 

narrowed only slightly since 

the pandemic, despite various 

policy efforts aimed at closing 

it. 

The reality is that many 

factors, from redlining to 

higher mortgage rejection 

rates, have contributed 

to keeping Black 

homeownership stubbornly 

low. Even today, Black buyers 

face higher interest rates and 

less favorable terms than 

their white counterparts. Add 

in the rising cost of homes, 

and it’s no wonder that 

purchasing property can feel 

like a mountain to climb. 

Let’s break it down: lower 

interest rates generally mean 

lower monthly payments, 

right? True. But it’s not quite 

that simple. While the recent 

rate cut does make borrowing 

a bit cheaper, the high cost of 

homes and limited inventory 

are still significant barriers. 

For many Black first-time 

buyers, this means navigating 

a market where homes are 

priced higher than ever, and 

there’s stiff competition for 

affordable properties. 

For context, consider 

this: the median home price 

in the U.S. has climbed to 

nearly $417,000 as of mid- 

2024, making it harder for 

new buyers to find properties 

within their budget. Even 

with the rate cut, Black 

buyers, who often have 



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Cell: 954-464-7253 

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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 


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

WORSHIP SERVICES & BIBLE STUDY 

Sunday Services: In Person 

8:00 AM and 10:45 AM 

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, 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 


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

mzbc2011@gmail.com - www.mtzionmbc1161.com 


Tuesday - Friday 11:00 A.M. - 4:00 P.M. 


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

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

2nd & 4th Tuesday Night Prayer Workshop/Bible Study................7:00 P.M 

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

Wednesday Night Church School ............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 


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 

at 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! 

Pastor David Deal, Jr. 


Every Christian's Church 

SUNDAY @11:00 am 

Phone (313) 209-8800 Conference ID 1948-1949 

Bible Trivia 

‘Test Your Bible Knowledge' 

1. Why are the names Rahab , Tamar, Bathsheba and Ruth prevalent 

in the Bible? 

2. What did Moses do to prevent him and Aaron from entering 

the promise land? 

3. The New Testament speaks about the ‘Pool of Siloam’. Who 

built the tunnel that allowed the water to flow into the pool? 

4. What is the distance between Bethlehem and Jerusalem? 

5. Complete the following verse: For I know that in me (that is, in 

my flesh), dwelleth no good thing: For……………….. 

6. Complete the following verse: If we confess our sins, he is faithful 

and just…………………. 

7. Initials CE, BCE, AD and BC stands for what? 

8. What happened in the year 70 AD? 

9. In Matthew 11:30 Jesus said “For my yoke is easy, and my burden 

is light”. What is a yoke? 

Answers – 1) They are in the lineage of Jesus; 2) Numbers 20:10- 

12; 3) King Hezekiah (New Bible Dictionary); 4) 5-6 miles; 5) 

Romans 7:18; 6) 1 John 1:9; 7) CE – Common Era, BCE – Before 

Common Era, AD – anno Domini, BC – before Christ; 8) The Jewish 

revolt. Jerusalem and the great Temple were destroyed by the 

Romans; 9) a yoke is a wooden crosspiece that is fasten over the 

necks of two animals. 

How Are Black Churches Preparing 

for Election 2024? 

From exploring ways to promote civic engagement 

all year round to ensuring voter registration, Black 

churches are doing plenty to prepare their members 

to participate in the election. 

By Houston Defender and 

by Aswad Walker 

With Election 2024 

being billed as the most 

consequential one in our 

lifetime, what are Black faith 

communities doing to prepare 

members to participate? 

Plenty. 

Credit: Debby Hudson/Unsplash 

Voter Registration 

“Like many of our churches, 

Blueridge Methodist put the 

message out to make sure 

that everybody knows they’re 

registered to vote, and make 

sure that their registration 

is actually current by going 

to TexasVoters.org just to 

double check,” said Pamela 

Walker. “Because there is 

some messaging out there that 

many voters’ registrations 

have been purged from 

inactivity and all these other 

things.” 

Stay up-to-date on reporting 

that amplifies the stories, 

voices, and perspectives of 

Walker visited the website 

to ensure that the voter 

registrations for herself, her 

partner, and her 21-year-old 

son were current. 

She also mentioned hearing 

of churches partnering with 

Divine Nine organizations 

and their voter empowerment 

efforts. 

“I think churches collaborating 

with efforts of 

fraternities and sororities 

canvassing and walking the 

streets and making sure 

people are registered and 

informed, especially if the 

pastor is in a frat, it’s lovely 

to see that,” she added. 




John Amos: A Trailblazer and Icon Passes Away at 84 

John Amos, legendary actor known for Good 

Times and Roots, has passed away at 84. His 

legacy of breaking barriers in Hollywood will 

continue to inspire for generations to come. 

Ramon Robinson 

Positivity Pays 

The entertainment world is mourning 

the loss of John Amos, the beloved actor best 

known for his powerful roles in Good Times 

and Roots, who passed away today at the age of 

84. Amos was more than just an actor—he was 

a cultural force whose roles broke barriers and 

reshaped how Black families and history were 

portrayed on television. His passing marks the 

end of an era, but his influence will continue to 

resonate for generations. 

A Pioneering Presence on Screen 

Amos became a household name for his 

portrayal of James Evans Sr. on the hit 1970s 

sitcom Good Times. As the no-nonsense father 

trying to hold his family together in a Chicago 

housing project, he delivered a performance 

that helped redefine the portrayal of Black 

men on television. His character, tough but 

loving, stood in stark contrast to the negative 

stereotypes often portrayed in the media. Amos 

insisted on authenticity, once stating that he 

fought to make sure his role reflected the true 

struggles of Black families in America. 

Amos’s contributions to television weren’t just 

limited to Good Times. In 1977, he starred 

as the older Kunta Kinte in the landmark 

miniseries Roots. His powerful portrayal of 

the enslaved African who refused to let his 

spirit be broken was groundbreaking. “I knew 

that it was a life-changing role for me, as an 

actor and just from a humanistic standpoint,” 

Amos told Time magazine in 2021. “It was 

the culmination of all the misconceptions and 

By Don Valentine 

stereotypical roles that I had lived and seen 

being offered to me. It was like a reward for 

having suffered those indignities.” 

A Legacy That Transcends Film and 

Television 

Beyond his iconic roles, John Amos was 

an advocate for better representation of 

Black actors in Hollywood. He refused roles 

that degraded Black characters and pushed 

for opportunities that highlighted the depth, 

complexity, and humanity of Black life. His 

work paved the way for many actors who 

followed in his footsteps, and his commitment 

to representing Black dignity and strength has 

left an enduring mark on the entertainment 

industry. 

Amos’s versatility was evident in his work 

in films like Coming to America, where he 

played Cleo McDowell, and his earlier role 

as weatherman Gordy Howard on The Mary 

Tyler Moore Show. He moved easily between 

comedy and drama, demonstrating his range 

as an actor and his willingness to take on roles 

that mattered. 

Remembering a Giant in Entertainment 

John Amos’s passing is a profound loss, 

but his legacy is far from over. His work 

on Good Times and Roots will continue to 

inspire generations, and his commitment to 

authentic Black representation in Hollywood 

will be remembered as one of his greatest 

achievements. As fans and colleagues reflect 

on his remarkable life and career, they’ll 

remember a man who wasn’t afraid to challenge 

the status quo—and who helped change it for 

the better. 

The Godmother of 

Civil Rights 

Deeply Rooted 

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 

Obituaries 

Death and Funeral Notices 

A Good Sheperd 

Funeral Home Services 

Quentin Blue 

- 53 

Funeral 

Services 

will be held 

October 12 th 

at Annie Laura 

Sheppard Smith 

Chapel. 

Edith Mae 

Brooks – 87 

Funeral 

Service 

will be held 

October 19 

at Mount 

Nebo 

Missionary 

Baptist Church. 

Wilbert 

Callow - 79 

Funeral 

Service 

will be held 

October 12 th at 

Mount Nebo 

Missionary 

Baptist Church. 

Earnest 

McGowan – 80 

Funeral 

Service 

was held 


Bible Teachers 

International. 

Jessie Mae 

Richardson 

- 89 

Funeral 

Service 

was held 

October 5 th 

The Beautiful 

Zion Temple of 

God. 

Petey Toussaint 

– 28 

Funeral Service 

will be held 


Annie Laura 

Sheppard Smith 

Chapel. 


James C. Boyd 


Eliamise D. 

Alexis – 64 

Funeral 

Service 

was held 

October 

5 th at Faith 

Church of 

the Nazarene 

with Pastor 

Arnold Simon officiating. 

Leona St Jean 

– 69 

Funeral 

Service 

was held at 

Sinai Seventh- 

Day Adventist 

Church with 

Dr. Nicholas 

Louis 

officiating. 

Priscilla Mary- 

Ann Thomas 

– 53 

Funeral 

Services was 

held October 

4 th at James 

C. Boyd’s 

Memorial 

Chapel. 

McWhite’s Funeral 

Home Services 

Lynford 

L Depass 

Funeral 

Service 

was held 

October 5 th 

at McWhite’s 

Funeral Home 

Chapel. 

Evelyn Jones 

Gregory 

Funeral 

Service 

was held 

October 5 th 

at Mt. Nebo 

Missionary 

Baptist 

Church. 

Juanita 

Jackson 

Funeral 

Service 

was held 


Lighthouse 

Worship 

Center 

Adelyn 

Rodriguez 

Funeral 

Service 

was held 

October 5 th 


Funeral 

Home 

Chapel. 

Brian M. 

Tiggett 

Funeral 

Service 

was held 

October 5 th 


Funeral 

Home 

Chapel. 

Roy Mizell & Kurtz 


Gregory 

Thaddeus 

Sutton – 73 

Funeral 

Service 

was held 


Roy Mizell & 

Kurtz Worship 

Center. 

The Obama White House 

(obamawhitehouse.archives. 

gov) chronicled President 

Obama eulogizing the death 

of the ‘Godmother of Civil 

Rights.” President Obama 

said, “Michelle and I were 

deeply saddened to hear 

about the passing of Dorothy 

Height - the godmother of the 

Civil Rights Movement and a 

hero to so many Americans. 

Ever since she was denied 

entrance to college because 

the incoming class had 

already met its quota of two 

African American women, 

Dr. Height devoted her life to 

those struggling for equality. 

She led the National Council 

of Negro Women for 40 years, 

and served as the only woman 

at the highest level of the Civil 

Rights Movement - witnessing 

every march and milestone 

along the way. And even in the 

final weeks of her life – a time 

when anyone else would have 

enjoyed their well-earned 

rest – Dr. Height continued 

her fight to make our nation 

a more open and inclusive 

place for people of every race, 

gender, background and 

faith. Michelle and I offer our 

condolences to all those who 

knew and loved Dr. Height – 

and all those whose lives she 

touched.” 

Miss Dorothy was born 

Dorothy Height. 

March 24, 1912 in Richmond, 

Virginia. She was horrified 

by the country’s vicious 

lynchings and this disgust 

led her to become active in 

anti-lynching campaigns. 

Her charismatic speaking 



Anthony Deon Bailey - 53 

Pastor David Washington, 

officiating. 

Entrusted: Love and Grace. 

A 

Family That 

Prays Together 

Stays Together


Deeply Rooted 


Stephen L. Demers Appointed To Broward Regional Health Planning 

Council Board Of Directors By Broward County Commission 

Submitted by Nicole 

Cohen Tindol, 

HOLLYWOOD, FL 

–– Stephen L. Demers was 

appointed to the Broward 

Regional Health Planning 

Council (BRHPC) Board of 

Directors by Broward County 

Commissioner Beam Furr. 

His term on the Council runs 

from August 22, 2024 through 

Submitted by Rebecca 

Santana | Associated 

Press 

(Source: Florida Courier) 

WASHINGTON — 

Waverly B. Woodson Jr., 

who was part of the only 

African American combat 

unit involved in the D-Day 

invasion during World War 

II, spent more than a day 

treating wounded troops 

under heavy German fire — 

August 22, 2026. 

Stephen L. Demers is Chief 

Executive Officer of Memorial 

Hospital Miramar, one of 

six acute-care facilities of 

Memorial Healthcare System, 

a public, nonprofit hospital 

system nationally recognized 

for providing outstanding 

patient- and family centered 

care. Mr. Demers is also the 

Interim Chief Executive 

Officer of Memorial Regional 

Hospital. 

Prior to this role, Mr. 

Demers served as the 

chief executive officer of 

the Memorial Hospital 

Pembroke from 2022-2023. 

Prior to joining Memorial, 

Mr. Demers served as chief 

operating officer and vice 

president, operations and 

chief of ambulatory networks 

Black WWII combat medic honored 80 years after D-Day 

Joann Woodson stands near a portrait of her husband, 

U.S. Army Staff Sgt. Waverly Woodson Jr., prior to a 

ceremony to posthumously award the Distinguished 

Service Cross to him on Capitol Hill in Washington on 

Sept. 24. 

(AP PHOTO/ROD LAMKEY JR.) 

all while injured himself. 

Decades later, and nearly 

20 years after his death, his 

family finally received the 

recognition that was denied 

many Black service members. 

Woodson’s 95-year-old 

widow, Joann, was presented 

Tuesday, Sept. 24 with the 

Distinguished Service Cross 

he was awarded posthumously 

for his extraordinary heroism. 

Generations of Woodson’s 

family packed the audience, 

many of them wearing 

T-shirts with his photo and 

the words “1944 D-Day US 

Army Medic” on the front. 

“It’s been a long, long 

road … to get to this day,” 

Woodson’s son, Steve, told the 

crowd. “My father, if he could 

have been here today, would 

have been humbled.” 

The award, the secondhighest 

honor that can be 

bestowed on a member of the 

Army, marked an important 

milestone in a years long 

campaign by his widow, 

supporters in the military 

and Maryland Sen. Chris Van 

Hollen for greater recognition 

of Woodson’s efforts that day. 

His ‘valor stood out’ 

Ultimately, they would 

like to see him honored with 

the Medal of Honor, the 

highest military decoration 

that can be awarded by the 

U.S. government and one long 

denied to Black troops who 

served in World War II. 

Van Hollen, who first 

heard Wood- son’s story when 

Joann Woodson reached out to 

his office nearly a decade ago, 

told the crowd that Woodson’s 

“valor stood out.” 



at the University of Miami 

Health System from 2019 to 

2021. From 2009 to 2019, he 

served in a number of senior 

executive positions at Lahey 

Hospital & Medical Center in 

Burlington, Massachusetts. 

His experience also includes 

tenures at the University of 

Pennsylvania Health Care 

System in Philadelphia, the 

Surgical Safety Institute 

and the University of South 

Florida College of Medicine 

in Tampa, and Brigham & 

Women’s Hospital and the 

Dana-Farber Cancer Institute 

in Boston. 

Mr. Demers earned a 

bachelor’s of science degree 

from the University of New 

Hampshire in Durham, New 

Hampshire, and a master’s 

of business administration 

degree from Northeastern 

University in Boston. He is 

a veteran of the US Navy 

Medical Service Corps, 

stationed at the Long Beach 

California and Newport 



(BPRW) Broward County Classroom 

Transformed into Innovative STEM Lab 

FPL’s STEM Classroom Makeover Grants program 

provides funding up to $50,000 each for five schools 

in Florida to provide transformational learning 

opportunities in economically disadvantaged K-12 

classrooms. 

Submitted by Bernadette 

A. Morris 

(BPRW) 

(Black PR Wire) FORT 

LAUDERDALE, FL -– 

Excitement filled the air 

as the doors swung open 

to reveal a remarkable 

classroom transformation, 

made possible through a 

collaborative partnership 

between Florida Power & 

Light Company (FPL) and the 

Broward Education 

Foundation. Together 

with Broward County Public 

Schools, the organizations 

celebrated the completion 

of the STEM Classroom 

Makeover at Dillard High 

School in Fort Lauderdale. 

The $50,000 grant from 

FPL, facilitated through 

the Broward Education 

Foundation, enabled Dillard 

High School to incorporate 

cutting-edge technology 

including robotics kits, 

interactive whiteboards and 

STEM equipment, creating 

an immersive learning 

experience. The redesigned 

classroom now boasts new 

STEM technology which 

will help enhance student 

engagement and foster 

creativity. 

“The Broward Education 

Foundation is proud to 

collaborate with FPL in 

creating a space where 

innovation and inspiration 

thrive,” said James A. Knapp, 

President & CEO of Broward 

Education Foundation. “This 

STEM lab represents more 



Florida 

Your vote. Your power. 

Our future. 

Know when, where, and 

how to vote. 

Your vote matters. It can make a difference in the fight for things you 

care about. Like protecting Social Security and getting support for 

millions of family caregivers. 

In the upcoming election, voters 50 and over can put these issues front 

and center. We’re the largest—and most influential—voting bloc in 

the country. We have the power to make candidates focus on what is 

important to us and on the challenges we are facing. 

AARP Florida is standing with you by providing the reliable election 

information you need to make your voice heard in November. Find out 

how to register, details on mail-in voting and polling places, plus all the 

key voting deadlines for Florida at aarp.org/FLvotes 

Paid for by AARP 

facebook.com/AARPFL | @AARPFL 

aarp.org/FL


Fort Lauderdale Native serves 

Aboard USS George Washington 

Boatswain’s Mate Seaman Jahmaurrie Walker, (U.S. Navy 

photo by Mass Communication Specialist Seaman Apprentice Kyree Rogers) 

Submitted by Ms. Megan 

S. Brown (Navy Office of 

Community ) 

Boatswain’s Mate Seaman 

Jahmaurrie Walker, from Fort 

Submitted by IRS 

Updated 10/3/2024: This 

news release has been updated 

for clarification purposes. 

Tax deadlines remain Feb. 

3, 2025, for areas of the 

state that received Debbyrelated 

relief, but not Helenerelated 

relief. Currently, 

this includes the following 

20 counties: Baker, Brevard, 

Clay, DeSoto, Duval, Flagler, 

Glades, Hardee, Hendry, 

Highlands, Lake, Nassau, 

Okeechobee, Orange, Osceola, 

Polk, Putnam, Seminole, 

St. Johns and Volusia. For 

further details, see below. 

FL-2024-08, Oct. 1, 2024 

WASHINGTON — The 

Internal Revenue Service 

announced recently tax relief 

for individuals and businesses 

Lauderdale, Florida, assigned 

to deck department’s forward 

division, applies a stopper to a 

mooring line in the forecastle 

during sea and anchor aboard 

Nimitz-class aircraft carrier 

Deeply Rooted 

USS George Washington 

(CVN 73) as the ship prepares 

to moor pierside at Naval Air 

Station North Island, Sept. 

28, 2024. As an integral part 

of U.S. Pacific Fleet, U.S. 3rd 

Fleet operates naval forces in 

the Indo-Pacific in addition 

to providing realistic and 

relevant training necessary 

to flawlessly execute our 

Navy’s timeless roles of sea 

control and power projection. 

U.S. 3rd Fleet works in close 

coordination with other 

numbered fleets to provide 

commanders with capable, 

ready forces to deploy forward 

and win in day-to-day 

competition, in crisis, and in 

conflict. 

IRS announces tax relief for victims 

of Hurricane Helene; various 

deadlines postponed to May 1, 2025 

in parts of Florida that were 

affected by Hurricane Helene 

that began on Sept. 23, 2024. 

These taxpayers now have 

until May 1, 2025, to file 

various federal individual 

and business tax returns and 

make tax payments. 

Following the disaster 

declaration issued by 

the Federal Emergency 

Management Agency (FEMA), 

individuals and households 

that reside or have a business 

in Alachua, Bay, Bradford, 

Calhoun, Charlotte, Citrus, 

Collier, Columbia, Dixie, 

Escambia, Franklin, Gadsden, 

Gilchrist, Gulf, Hamilton, 

Hernando, Hillsborough, 

Holmes, Jackson, Jefferson, 

Lafayette, Lee, Leon, Levy, 

Liberty, Madison, Manatee, 

Marion, Monroe, Okaloosa, 

Pasco, Pinellas, Santa Rosa, 

Sarasota, Sumter, Suwannee, 

Taylor, Union, Wakulla, 

Walton, and Washington 

counties qualify for tax relief. 

Affected Taxpayers with 

returns and payments with 

due dates postponed until 

Feb. 3, 2025, due to Tropical 

Storm Debby in Florida (FL- 

2024-07) will also now have 

until May 1, 2025, to file and/ 

or pay. 

Together, the Helenerelated 

and Debby-related 

declarations permit the IRS 

to postpone certain tax-filing 

and tax-payment deadlines 

for taxpayers who reside or 

have a business in the disaster 




Miami native serves at 

Naval Station Great Lakes 

GREAT LAKES, Il. 

-- Damage Controlman 

Fireman Daniyah Williams, 

from Miami, Florida, uses a 

computer to complete online 

training at the Relocation 

Assistance program (RAP) 

office, Fleet and Family 

Support Center at Naval 

Station Great Lakes, October 

1, 2024. Not only does the 

RAP office help with the 

moving process for service 

member and helps them 

connect with their next 

command, it also is a great 

recourse for both professional 

and personal development, 

career transition, pay and 

has a vast array of learning 

resources and online content 

for them to use. 

Broward County Transit gears up 

for an active Carnival season 

Just try it and enjoy the Stress-Free Festivities 

Submitted by Jose Paz 

It’s Carnival season, and 

Broward County Transit 

(BCT) is ready to take 

eventgoers straight to the 

heart of the action! Whether 

they’re gearing up for the 

vibrant Junior Carnival on 

October 5th, the energetic 

beats of Panorama Carnival 

on October 11th, or the 

festive celebration of Jouvert 

Carnival on October 12th, 

BCT offers a stress-free, 

affordable, and eco-friendly 

way to get there. All Carnival 

events are happening at 

Central Broward Park (3700 

N.W. 11th Place, Lauderhill, 

FL 33311), and with BCT, 

they can ditch the parking 

hassle and focus on the fun! 

This Carnival season 

promises to be bigger and 

better, with colorful costumes, 

lively parades, and pulsating 

music that will get everyone 

in the mood to celebrate. 

But let’s face it—driving 

to these events can be a 

hassle, especially with traffic, 

parking fees, and high gas 

prices. That’s where Broward 

County Transit steps in. With 

the Just Try It campaign, BCT 

invites riders to leave their 

car behind and ride our buses 

straight to the excitement. 

Not only does taking 

public transit save people 

money and time, but it’s also 

an eco-friendly choice. Riders 

will be doing their part to 

reduce traffic congestion and 

lower their carbon footprint 

while enjoying a smooth, easy 

ride to their favorite events. 



WE’RE READY 

With Expert Neurological Care 

At Broward Health, we are committed to providing 

comprehensive neurological care to help patients regain 

their lives. Learn more at BrowardHealth.org/Neuro. 

ADVANCED CUTTING-EDGE RIGHT CARE, 

SURGICAL TECHNIQUES NEUROLOGICAL TREATMENT WITHIN REACH 

BH_Neuro24_AfricanAmerican_Westside Gazette_13.25x10.75.indd 1 

9/13/24 4:08 PM


Deeply Rooted 


How to prevent toxic chemical sickness and mold after storm flooding 

By Jessica Meszaros | 

WUSF (Source: Florida 

Courier) 

If you still have moisture 

from Hurricane Helene 

in your home or business, 

an expert shares some 

important tips on how to 

prevent health impacts from 

flooding and the cleanup 

afterward. 

There’s one critical thing 

people can do to prevent 

Lauderhill Signs 

Historic 

Three-Year Police 

Union Contract 

L to R: President Sgt. Joseph Nistor and City Manager 

Desorae Giles-Smith, Vice President Det. Sam Smith 

and FOP Representative Sean Kelly. 

City Manager Desorae Giles-Smith and 

FOP President Sgt. Joseph Nistor sealed 

the deal on September 30th, alongside 

key negotiators Vice President Det. 

Sam Smith and FOP Representative 

Sean Kelly. This mutually beneficial 

agreement outlines employment terms 

and conditions, fostering a stronger citylaw 

enforcement partnership.” 

mold build-up after flooding: 

“Anywhere you have 

drywall on the floor, and if 

water touched that area, 

all of that area must be 

removed with drywalls right 

away, at least going couple 

of feet higher than wherever 

you have the water,” said 

Naresh Kumar, a researcher 

at the University of Miami 

studying the health effects 

of flooding from hurricanes. 

After you remove all 

the wet dry-wall, wood and 

fibers, use floor fans so the 

area can dry out as soon as 

possible. 

“And if you don’t do that, 

within three to seven days, 

when moisture will begin 

to build up, you will begin 

to see mold spores will be 

CARTLTON B. MOORE 

FRIENDS AND FAMILY DAY 

The community came 

out on this past Saturday 

to join Carlton B. Moore 

Freedom Foundation, along 

with the HOT105 family, 

and legendary #chicothevirgo 

at Osswald Park in Fort 

Lauderdale as we celebrated 

the Fifth Annual Friends and 

Family Day in honor of the 

late Fort Lauderdale City 

Commissioner Carlton B. 

Moore. 

*Event Highlights:* 

*Live Music_ to get you 

grooving 

*Food Trucks_ serving up 

delicious eats 

*Games_ and activities for all 

ages 

*Marketplace_ featuring local 

vendors 

*Kids’ Zone_ for the little ones 

to enjoy 

The community Came out 

and show love while having a 

blast with the whole family! 

L to r: Carlton B. Moore Forrest Moore’s son of the late 

Carlton B. Moore; City of Fort Lauderdale Commissioner 

Pam Beasley-Pittman, holdingand presented the Plaque 

and City of Fort Lauderdale Mayor Dean Trantalis and 

Chico the Virgo Sylvester Wesley from HOT105 Radio. 

The floor of a hallway is stripped to treat the mold 

infestation. 

(GABRIELLA PAUL/WUSF) 

popping up,” Kumar said. 

Rather than run your air 

conditioner, open windows 

and doors while using the 

floor fans. 

Black mold can form in 

your home or business after 

extreme flooding events, like 

Helene. 

Allergic reactions include 

headache, runny nose, and 

coughing. 

“And if you have 

pulmonary disease, that’s 

going to further exacerbate 

the effect of this mold,” said 

Kumar. 

He said the architectural 

designs and building 

materials typically used in 

Florida are not appropriate 

for the amount of moisture 

we get here. 

“Instead of using a simple, 

cheap drywall, use Durock. 

They are made of cement. 

So even if water hits them, 

it will absorb and mold will 

not pop up,” Kumar said. 

Safe versus hazardous 

cleaning 

During the height of the 

COVID-19 pandemic, Kumar 

and his team in- stalled 

sensors in residents’ homes. 

He said people were using 

more strong disinfectants 

during that time, which led 

to ammonium concentration 

increasing dramatically in 

the air. 

And people were 

complaining about allergylike 

symptoms. 

“Any person I talk to, 

they complain about their 

allergy symptoms, and one 

of the reasons is without 

even paying close attention 

to these strong disinfectants 

which are very hazardous, 

somewhat. Most of them are 

chlorine-based ammonia,” 

Kumar said. 

Unless you ventilate the 

space while using chlorinebased 

ammonia products, 

Kumar said they are 

extremely dangerous. 

“They react very abruptly, 

onset allergy, asthma, all 

these symptoms will flare up 

… Do not enter in that space 

unless you can run a sensor 

that detects the chlorine, 

ammonium chloride and 

other free radicals,” Kumar 

said. 

Alternate non-toxic 

cleaning options include 

using vinegar and baking 

soda, or soapy water.


Challenges Facing 

America’s Middle Class 

L to r:Public Defender Gordon Weeks Broward County 

Administrator Monica Cepero and Broward County 

State Attorney Harold F. Pryor 

The OIC of South Florida 

, Newton Sanon and the 

OIC of South Florida team 

hosted its 2024 Middle Class 

Summit, a two-day event 

aimed at finding solutions 

to the challenges facing 

America’s middle class. The 

event was held on Oct. 2-3 at 

the Hardrock Hotel & Casino 

in Hollywood. OIC of South 

Florida is a community-based 

workforce development, 

education and training 

organization for adults and 

youth. 

The summit brought 

together experts in areas 

like workforce, housing, 

healthcare and economic 

development, along with 

policymakers, employers, 

educators and community 

leaders. 

Hamas Attack on Israel from FP 

Remembers at the Saban Theatre in Beverly 

Hills. Among the notable attendees were 

actress Mayim Bialik, Israeli performer Raviv 

Kaner, and U.S. Rep. Brad Sherman, D-Calif. 

In Houston, the Jewish Federation hosted a 

vigil at Congregation Beth Yeshurun, drawing 

together more than 40 Jewish organizations. 

New Orleans held a similar event at the 

Jefferson Performing Arts Center on Sunday 

night, where Robert French, CEO of the Jewish 

Federation of Greater New Orleans, spoke. “To 

those still living, we pray for their safe return. 

And to those murdered by terrorists, we pray 

that they will be returned for a dignified 

burial,” French said. 

NNPA President Headlines Memorial in New 

York 

Deeply Rooted 

The goal of the event is 

to discuss and address the 

problems that make it hard 

for people to enter or stay 

in the middle class. These 

include rising costs of living, 

access to affordable housing, 

and disparities in education 

and healthcare. The issues 

will be discussed specifically 

within the context of the 

COVID-19 pandemic, which 

increased financial struggles 

for families across Florida. 

It was focused on 

challenges faced by the middle 

class in our communities. The 

summit aimed to address 

criminal justice reform and 

reentry barriers, which can 

significantly impact the 

middle class. By helping 

individuals reintegrate 

into society and contribute 

economically, we can 

rebuild lives and strengthen 

communities. 

*Key Areas of Focus:* 

- _Criminal Justice 

Reform_: Addressing the 

challenges faced by those 

reentering society after 

incarceration. 

- _Reentry Support_: 

Providing essential services 

like job training, education, 

mental health support, 

substance abuse treatment, 

housing, and stigma 

elimination. 

The World Values Network organized 

a significant gathering in Times Square 

to mark the anniversary. Dr. Benjamin F. 

Chavis Jr., President and CEO of the National 

Newspaper Publishers Association (NNPA), 

headlined the event, which drew large crowds 

to commemorate the victims of the Hamas 

attack. Chavis, a prominent civil rights leader, 

spoke about the importance of solidarity and 

remembrance. 

“We gather today not only to remember the 

lives lost but to stand firm in our commitment 

to peace, justice, and the security of Israel,” 

Chavis said. Medal of Honor recipient Captain 

Florent Groberg also addressed the crowd, 

and performances by Kosha Dillz and Biana 

Pinchuk added to the emotional resonance 


The Unveiling of the Parker Playhouse 

The Parker, a beloved 

cultural landmark in Fort 

Lauderdale, celebrated a 

major milestone on September 

26 with the unveiling of a 

Florida Historical Marker. 

Since opening its doors on 

February 6, 1967, The Parker 

has been a cornerstone of 

community life, hosting 

countless live concerts and 

shows. Originally built by 

Dr. Louis Parker and now 

managed by the Broward 

Center, this iconic venue 

has been a staple of Fort 

Lauderdale’s cultural scene 

for over five decades. 

As The Parker honors its 

rich history, the community 

eagerly anticipates the many 

unforgettable performances 

to come at this treasured 

historical site. With its curtain 

rising for the first time on February 6, 1967, The Parker has 

solidified its place as one of Fort Lauderdale’s premier cultural 

institutions. 

A MESSAGE FROM THE PUBLISHER 

dangerous figures to rise to power. As citizens, 

we must not turn a blind eye, allowing the 

erosion of our core democratic values to take 

hold. Instead, we must vote with intention 

and responsibility, knowing that every ballot 

cast is a step toward either needed progress or 

unjustifiable defeat. 

There is a crucial difference between failure 

and defeat, a concept that holds particular 

relevance in this election. Failure is a temporary 

setback, an opportunity to learn and try again. It 

does not define the future, nor does it signal the 

end of hope. Defeat, however, is the acceptance 

of failure as final. It’s a surrender of the fight for 

what is just and right. 

As we approach this election, we must 

pull out all stops to reject defeat. We must 

vote to protect democracy, safeguard women’s 

independence, and uphold the rights of each 

and every citizen. The outcome of this election 

will shape the nation’s destiny for generations 

to come. Let’s ensure that we don’t just vote 

against a dangerous, divisive agenda—we 

vote for a future where America’s greatness is 

defined by inclusion in the progress for all. 

For young Black children, DREAMERS, and 

all those who still hold hope for a more balanced 

and peaceful world, this election carries much 

more weight. Voting in this election means 

standing up for a future where young Black 

children can grow up in a country where their 

potential is nurtured, not hindered by systemic 

racism. It means offering DREAMERS the hope 

of living in a nation that acknowledges their 

dreams and contributions, a country where 

they can belong without fear of deportation or 

rejection. And it means voting for peace, not 

(L to R -- Robert Lochrie, Commissioner City Commissioners 

Lamar Fisher, Commissioner Pamela Beasley-Pittman, 

Mayor Dean J. Trantalis, and Commissioner Steven 

Glassman (identify the last gentlemen) were in attendance 

to commemorate the occasion. 

just the absence of conflict, but the presence of 

justice—where every community can feel safe, 

valued, free from oppression and not defined by 

blatant lies of their meal choices and a disregard 

to their contributions here to this country. 

As civil rights leader Dr. Martin Luther King 

Jr. once reminded us, “Voting is the foundation 

stone for political action.” It is through the act 

of voting that we lay the groundwork for the 

changes we wish to see in our communities and 

our country. 

Famed civil rights activist and labor leader 

Fannie Lou Hamer declared, “Nobody’s free 

until everybody’s free.” This election is a call 

for us to protect not only our own rights but 

the freedoms of our neighbors, ensuring that no 

group is marginalized or left behind. 

Former President Barack Obama echoed this 

urgency when he said, “There’s no such thing 

as a vote that doesn’t matter. It all matters.” 

Each ballot is a powerful expression of hope and 

responsibility for the future. 

For young Black children, DREAMERS, and 

those yearning for peace, our votes are more 

than political statements—they are acts of hope. 

Hope for a country where race, immigration 

status, or zip code doesn’t determine your 

future. Hope for peace, grounded in justice, that 

allows every child to grow up in a country where 

they feel safe and valued. 

The stakes are high, but the path forward 

is clear. Voting is not only a right but a duty 

to defend the ideals of democracy, equality, and 

justice for all. 

Again, we must vote like or lives depend 

upon it-because it does! 

Fresh produce from a 

school bus? We’re on board. 

80% of your health is shaped by how and where you live, * including the food you 

eat. Florida Blue wants you to be your healthiest and that’s why we proudly support the 

Mobile School Pantry, a school bus that delivers fresh fruits and vegetables to local 

students and their families. 

Solving for 

Lauderdale Lakes, 

Lauderhill, 

and Sistrunk 

*Source: Institute for Clinical Systems Improvement, Going Beyond Clinical Walls: Solving Complex Problems (October 2014). Florida Blue is a trade name of Blue Cross and Blue Shield of Florida Inc. Florida Blue Foundation is a trade name of the Blue Cross and Blue Shield of Florida Foundation, Inc. Both companies are 

Independent Licensees of the Blue Cross and Blue Shield Association. 

118895 0824 

118895_0824_FBBrand_WestsideGazette_Food_F.indd 1 

8/15/24 8:51 AM


Deeply Rooted 


Black Women Are Paying the 

Price For Systemic Racism 

in Breast Cancer Care 

By Dr. Bayo Curry- 

Winchell 

As women, we often hear 

about the importance of breast 

cancer screening and early 

detection. However, for Black 

women, despite significant 

improvements in breast 

cancer care, a disturbing gap 

persists in outcomes between 

Kena Betancur | Corbis News 

By Annika Kim Constantino 

(Source: CNBC) 

(bongkarn - stock.adobe. 

Black and White women: 

systemic racism. 

The role of systemic 

racism and sexism cannot 

be ignored in understanding 

these disparities. Social 

and economic factors, often 

influenced by systemic 

racism, can create barriers 



Ambassador 

Nancy G. Brinker 

Spearheads 

Local Nonprofit’s 

Efforts to Provide 

No Cost Breast 

Cancer Diagnostic 

Screenings to 

Nearly 100,000 

Underserved 

Women in South 

Florida 

Submitted by Debbie 

Abrams 

WEST PALM BEACH, 

FL,-– As breast cancer 

awareness month begins, 

Promise Fund, a South 

Florida based non-profit 

founded by Ambassador 

Nancy G. Brinker, is 

reaching out to the tens of 

thousands of women in Palm 

Beach, Broward and Martin 

Counties who are uninsured, 

under insured or have limited 

or no access to healthcare. 

The organization, founded 

in 2018, is dedicated to 

increasing survivorship from 

breast and cervical cancer by 

providing guided support and 

access to screenings, as well 

as early detection, treatment, 

and beyond. 

A study out yesterday by 

the American Cancer Society 

shows the incidence of breast 

cancer has risen over the last 

decade, particularly among 

those under 50. According to 

the study, Black women are 

least likely to be diagnosed 



Healthy Returns: Pfizer pulls Sickle Cell Disease 

drug from markets – here’s why it matters 

A version of this article first appeared in CNBC’s Healthy Returns newsletter, 

which brings the latest health-care news straight to your inbox. Subscribe here to 

receive future editions. 

Hello and happy Tuesday! Today, we’re unpacking a shocking move from Pfizer. 

The pharmaceutical giant last week announced it would voluntarily withdraw its 

sickle cell disease therapy, Oxbryta, from worldwide markets — to the surprise of doctors, 

patients and investors. 

Getty Images 

Here’s why the drug is important: Oxbryta is one of at least six treatments for the inherited blood disorder. The drug first won 

accelerated approval from the U.S. Food and Drug Administration in 2019, which requires further trials to confirm its benefits to 

patients. 

Oxbryta was one of the centerpieces of Pfizer’s $5.4 billion acquisition of Global Blood Therapeutics in 2022. 

Sickle cell disease causes red blood cells to become misshapen half-moons that get stuck inside blood vessels, which can 

restrict blood flow and cause what are known as pain crises. It impacts roughly 100,000 people in the U.S., many of whom are 

Black, according to data from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. 

The company on Wednesday said the decision to withdraw Oxbryta was based on data showing a higher risk of deaths and 

complications in patients treated with the once-daily pill. In a release, Pfizer said the “totality of clinical data” on Oxbryta now 

indicates that its overall benefit “no longer outweighs the risk” in the patient population for which the drug is approved. 

Twin babies who died alongside 

their mother in Georgia are 

youngest-known Hurricane 

Helene victims 

from the Front Page 

father she would heed his advice to shelter in the bathroom 

with her month-old babies until the storm passed. 

Minutes later, she was no longer answering her family’s 

calls. 

One of her brothers dodged fallen trees and downed power 

lines to check on her later that day, and he could barely bear to 

tell his father what he saw. 

A large tree had crashed through the roof, crushing Kobe 

and causing her to fall on top of infant sons Khyzier and 

Khazmir. All three were found dead. 

“I’d seen pictures when they were born and pictures every 

day since, but I hadn’t made it out there yet to meet them,” 

Obie Williams told The Associated Press days after the storm 

ravaged eastern Georgia. “Now I’ll never get to meet my 

grandsons. It’s devastating.” 

The babies, born Aug. 20, are the youngest known victims 

of a storm that had claimed 200 lives across Florida, Georgia, 

Tennessee, Virginia and the Carolinas as of Thursday. Among 

the other young victims are a 7-year-old girl and a 4-year-old 

boy from about 50 miles (80 kilometers) south in Washington 

County, Georgia. 

In the elder Williams’ home city of Augusta, 30 miles (48 

kilometers) east of his daughter’s home in Thomson, power 

lines stretched along the sidewalks, tree branches blocked 

the roads and utility poles lay cracked and broken. The debris 

left him trapped in his neighborhood near the South Carolina 

border for a little over a day after the storm barreled through. 

Kobe, a single mother nursing newborns, had told her 

family it wasn’t possible for her to evacuate with such young 

babies, her father said. 

Many of his 14 other children are still without power in their 

homes across Georgia. Some have sought refuge in Atlanta, 

and others have traveled to Augusta to see their father and 

mourn together. 

They are waiting for the bodies to be released by the county 

coroner and for roads to be cleared before arranging a funeral. 

Williams described his daughter as a lovable, social and 

strong young woman. She always had a smile on her face and 

loved to make people laugh, he said. 

She was studying to be a nursing assistant but had taken 

time off from school to give birth to her sons. 

“That was my baby,” her father said. “And everybody loved 

her.” 

As part of that move, 

Pfizer is also discontinuing all 

studies and access programs 

related to the treatment. 

The FDA on Saturday urged 

healthcare professionals to 

stop prescribing Oxbryta. 

The agency also said patients 

and caregivers should contact 

their healthcare professional 

about stopping the drug and 

starting another treatment 

option. 

European regulators on 

Thursday also said patients 

in trials had higher rates of 




Candidate Van Horn Hosts Meetup 

with Squid Game Contestants 

Deeply Rooted 

impression on many players 

in the game, strangers who 

have since become lifelong 

friends, especially his dear 

friend Brownie. 

“We’re here for Big Chad, 

Chad Van Horn,” Brownie 

said at the event. “He was 

truly my rock inside the game, 

he protected me, he made sure 

I had everything I needed. He 

is the most compassionate 

person I’ve ever met. This 

is why I know Chad will be 

perfect for Fort Lauderdale 

Commissioner, District 2. 

“He truly cares about 

people, all people, not just 

rich people, not only people 

who can benefit him, not only 

people who give him things,” 

she added. “He cares about 

people because of who they 

are at their core.” 

Van Horn, who finished 

in the top 10 out of 456 

contestants in Squid Game: 

The Challenge, stayed true to 

himself, never compromising 

his character during the 

grueling competition. He 


brings this same character to 

the Fort Lauderdale District 

2 race. 

“I am committed to 

making a difference in this 

community,” said Van Horn. 

“I’m dedicated to uniting 

diverse perspectives and 

fostering mutual respect to find 

solutions to our most pressing 

issues, from homelessness, to 

infrastructure, to responsible 

development. Fort Lauderdale 

is ready for a leader who will 

put the needs of our citizens 

first. I am that person.” 

Fort Lauderdale’s 

firefighters agree. The 

Professional Fire Fighters, 

Inc. I.A.F.F. Local 765 

recently endorsed Van Horn’s 

candidacy. 

Van Horn is the 

founding partner attorney of 

bankruptcy firm Van Horn 

Law Group, P.A., among the 

top five bankruptcy firms in 

Florida based on the number 

of cases filed in the last 12 

months (pacer.gov). The 

mission of Van Horn Law 

Group is to restore peace 

of mind to individuals in 

financial distress by providing 

first-rate, affordable legal 

services with compassion, 

understanding and respect. 


Recognize that 

October Is 

Breast Cancer 

Awareness Month 

42 

Squid Game: The Challenge players Louisa Warwick, 

Sam Lantz, Marian Palladino, and Amanda ‘Brownie’ 

Brown with Chad Van Horn, second from right. 

CLASSIFIED 

ADVERTISE: 

*LEGAL NOTICES 

*FOR RENT 

*FORSALE 

*HELP WANTED 


LEGAL NOTICES 

AUTHENTICATION OF 

PUBLICATION BIRTH 

ANNOUNCEMENT 

AFFIDAVIT 

I, General Foreman, hereby sired Offspring, 

Laila Foreman (Born 2017 and Jahlil Foreman 

(Born 2019) who both have my DNA genetics 

that is particular to me. I planted the 

Seeds and the nine-month gestation period 

occured, whereas the woman carrying my 

Offsprings/Seed was the Trustee, and upon 

full gestation the Securities was birthed, and 

given properly back to me upon maturity. 

Wherein this Property, Offsprings, Progeny, 

and Lineage Bloodline of my DNA (ab initio) 

is mine. 

IN WITNESS WHEREOF I hereunto set 

my hand and seal on this 20th day of September 

2024, by General Grant Foreman, 

Jr. proved to me on the basis of satisfactory 

evidence to be the Living Soul who 

appeared before me. And I hereby certify that 

all the statements made above are true, correct 

and complete. 

Dated: 09/20/2004 

September 26, October 3, 10, 17, 24, 2024 

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LEGAL NOTICES 

NOTICE OF 

CREDITORS 

IN THE CIRCUIT 

COURT FOR 

BROWARD COUNTY, 

FLORIDA 

PROBATE DIVISION 

FILE NO: 

PR-C 24002182 

PROBATE 

IN RE: ESTATE OF 

DARYL NICK BACKOS 

Deceased 

The administration of the estate of 

DARYL NICK BACKOS, deceased, File Number 

24-21-82 is pending in the Circuit Court for 

BROWARD County, Florida Probate Division, 

the address of which is 201 Southeast 

Sixth Street, Fort Lauderdale, Florida 33301. 

The name and addresses of the personal representative 

and the personal representative’s 

attorney are set forth below. 

All creditors of the decedent and other 

persons having claims or demands against 

decedent’s estate, including unmatured, contingent 

or unliquidated claims, on whom a 

copy of this notice is served must file their 

claims with this court WITHIN THE LATER 

OF 3 MONTHS AFTER THE DATE OF THE 

FIRST PUBLICATION OF THIS NOTICE OF 

30 DAYS AFTER THE DATE OF SERVICE OF 

A COPY OF THIS NOTICE ON THEM. 

All other creditors of the decedent and other 

persons having claims or demands against 

decedent’s including unmatured, contingent 

claims, must file their claims with this court 

WITHIN 3 MONTHS AFTER THE DATE OF 

THE FIRST PUBLICATION OF THIS NO- 

TICE. 

ALL CLAIMS NOT SO FILED WITHIN 

THE TIME PERIODS SET FORTH IN SEC- 

TION 733.702 OF THE FLORIDA PROBATE 

CODE WILL BE FOREVER BARRED. 

NOTWITHSTANDING THE TIME PE- 

RIODS SET FORTH ABOVE, ANY CLAIM 

FILED TWO (2) YEARS OR MORE AFTER 

THE DECEDENT’S DATE OF DEATH IS 

BARRED. 

The date of first publication of this notice is 

September 26, 2024. 

Attorney for Personal Representative: 

William D. Beamer 

Florida Bar. No. 172055 

Attorney for Personal Representative: 

Personal Representative: Susan Napoli 

22661 SW 64 Way Boca Raton, FL 33428 

September 26, October 3, 10, 17, 2024 

Submitted by Cindy Schutt 

Squid Game Player 286, 

also known as Chad Van Horn, 

hosted a gathering at the 

Sparrow in Fort Lauderdale 

with fellow contestants 

of Netflix’s Squid Game: 

The Challenge to celebrate 

Van Horn’s run for Fort 

Lauderdale City Commission, 

District 2. Squid competitors 

in attendance included Player 

016 Sam Lantz, Player 087 

Kyle Christiansen, Player 077 

Marina Palladino, Player 166 

Louisa Warwick and Player 

258 Amanda “Brownie” 

Brown. 

Van Horn left a lasting 

NNPA HOROSCOPE 


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-Beware of financial pitfalls that you’ve set 

for yourself. Strengthen all your relationships by 

understanding motivations of others. Spend time 

at home. Enjoy what you already have. Often it’s 

not what I say but the way I say it that gets the 

message across. 4, 6, 47 

TAURUS-Don’t expect to win every battle, 

especially with your lover. This week winning is 

losing. Backing down is winning. Shyness produces 

a bold result. It’s easy to collect that long-standing 

debt. I keep money on my mind this week. 18, 

25, 39 

GEMINI-Possibilities of hearing good news about 

home are greatly expanded. Savor the news rather 

than thinking about other annoyances. Travel is 

on the horizon. Plan the trip this week. Jewelry 

reflects the beauty of my feelings about myself. 

26, 44, 52 

CANCER-Feather the nest. Stock up on stuff for 

the-long haul. Cement relationships. A friend 

needs your support. Enjoy giving it. You will receive 

good news about a pal. Cheerfully handling what 

comes at me is the test of who I am. 13, 22, 31 

LEO-Be cautious and conservative with money. 

You are extremely witty this week. Allow others to 

enjoy your good humor. Your leadership skills are 

very high, and others will follow. Luck is my best 

friend this week. 14, 20, 44 

VIRGO-This is a good time for you to seek 

agreement on a plan that involves a relative. Take 

the time to remind your lover how much you care. 

Get a little sentimental if you have to. Don’t be too 

critical of that softer side of your personality. Self 

confidence is the key to my success this week. 2, 

9, 19 

LIBRA-You’ve made your point. Now wait. Wait 

for the feedback about the impact it had on the 

people around you. Be careful of those who don’t 

celebrate with you. They feel the impact and are 

resisting the positive effects. Before goodness can 

come I must expect goodness. 5, 16, 23 

SCORPIO-Be sharp! All of your needs will be met 

in indirect ways. Gifts will come from unexpected 

sources. They will be carefully packaged to go 

unnoticed. Unwrap everything and look inside. 

There will be empty boxes, but there will also be 

a prize in an unanticipated situation. I look for the 

good in all that comes to me this week. 3, 10, 41 

SAGITTARIUS 

Push. Now is a good time to push. Your energy is 

higher than ever. Someone might get offended, 

but you can’t please everyone. Hire a pro for 

something that you planned to do yourself, 

especially if a expertise is involved. Success is 

mine because I feel successful. 5, 7, 12 

CAPRICORN-Review your “to do” list again. You 

may need to slow down to discover something 

that you didn’t realize while you were in the flow 

of events. Your lover is going to be a little difficult 

to understand. To live is to love. 5, 16, 23 

AQUARIUS-Back off if an argument arises. You’re 

probably the one who is too busy. Forgiving 

yourself is often harder than getting someone else 

to forgive you. Go easy on yourself. Two hats fit 

well on my big head. 3, 20, 32 

PISCES-Make a special effort to spend all week 

with your lover, husband, or wife. Your sense of 

the importance of relationships is keen and this 

is a good time to strengthen your passionate 

partnership. Take your lover to a party. Devote 

attention. Change is my middle name. 12, 51, 52 

13 

24 

71 

25 54 

1 0 0 

MIAMI RED 

876 

Pick 2 

470/237 

78 

689 

39 

HOT 

LEAD NUMBER 

1 

89430 

POWERBALL 

18-30-31-52-63 22 2x 

DP 24-27-47-49-55 11 

JUNE 

34 

79 

PROFILES 

MAY 

APRIL 

49 

88 

35 

55 

89 

MAR. 

24 

36 

56 

99 

FEB. 

16 

25 

37 

57 

00 

12 

17 

26 

38 

58 

02 

53 

79 

OCTOBER 2024 

13 

18 

27 

39 

59 

03 

10 

14 

19 

28 

44 

66 

15 

22 

29 

45 

67 

JULY 

23 

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Consumers caught in 

illegal junk fee traps to 

receive $48 million 

FTC action ends nation’s largest singlefamily 

home renter’s widespread abuse 

By Charlene Crowell 

The nation’s largest corporate landlord for single-family 

home rentals (last month/recently?) was fined $48 million 

by the Federal Trade Commission (FTC) for years-long 

financial abuses of tenants. The firm, Invitation Homes, 

also will be required to change its practices, and agree to 

long-term monitoring of its rental activity. 

According to the September 24 settlement, renters who 

resided in one of Invitation Homes’ over 33,000 properties 

between 2018 and 2023 will be the beneficiaries. Its rental 

properties across the nation are located in both cities and 

suburbs including – but not limited to: Atlanta, Chicago, 

Dallas, Denver, Houston, Los Angeles, Miami, Minneapolis, 

and Seattle. 

“Invitation Homes, the nation’s largest single-family 

home landlord, preyed on tenants through a variety of unfair 

and deceptive tactics, from saddling people with hidden fees 

and unjustly withholding security deposits to misleading 

people about eviction policies during the pandemic and 

even pursuing eviction proceedings after people had moved 

out,” said FTC Chair Lina M. Khan in a September 24 

announcement. “No American should pay more for rent 

or be kicked out of their home because of illegal tactics by 

corporate landlords. The FTC will continue to use all our 

tools to protect renters from unlawful business practices.” 

Founded in 2012, Invitation Homes’ initial public offering 

(IPO) raised approximately $1.77 billion, making it and is 

the second- largest real estate investment trust (REIT) IPO 

in history, according to its website. 

Regulators said Invitation Homes was guilty of anticonsumer 

practices that included: 

· Deceiving renters about lease costs including $500 

‘reservation fees’ in addition to application fees. Since 2019, 

Invitation Homes has collected more than $18 million in 

application fees alone for deceptively priced houses; 

· Charging undisclosed junk fees – costing consumers up 

to $1,700 per year; 

· Failing to inspect homes before residents moved in; 

· Unfairly withholding tenants’ security deposits when 

they moved out; and 

· Other misrepresentations including total monthly 

leasing price, property condition, and availability of 

emergency maintenance, 

In a related consumer alert posted on FTC’s website, 

Larissa Bungo, a senior attorney, shared more details 

documenting why the enforcement action is warranted. 

“Landlords must truthfully advertise the prices and 

services they’re offering, said Bungo. “The FTC says 

Invitation Homes advertised an overall “worry-free leasing 

lifestyle” and promised pre-inspected homes before move-in 

and “24/7 emergency maintenance” for any issues, but failed 

to deliver.” 

Deeply Rooted 

“Instead, new residents faced major issues like 

sewage backup, broken appliances, and visible 

rodent feces,” continued Bungo. “The promises 

didn’t live up to the hype and, to add insult to injury, 

according to the FTC, Invitation Homes wrongly 

withheld some or all of renters’ security deposits for 

things like normal wear and tear or damage that 

was already there before renters moved in. Which is 

also illegal.” 

The fall settlement also marks a milestone 

victory for consumer advocates that in recent years 

have urged federal regulatory agencies to adopt and 

enforce rules to better protect consumers from an 

array of junk fees. 

For example, in 2022, four national consumer 

advocates – Americans for Financial Reform, the 

Consumer Federation of America, the National 

Consumer Law Center, and the Center for 

Responsible Lending (CRL), jointly urged the 

Consumer Financial Protection Bureau (CFPB), to 

enact junk fee rules. 

“Hidden fees and costs strip wealth from the 

most vulnerable consumers who are struggling to 

make ends meet,” wrote the advocates. “The most 

impacted consumers often come from communities of 

color already burdened by other predatory practices, 

further exacerbating racial inequities… Disclosure 

is intended to give consumers an opportunity “know 

before they owe.” But that knowledge is worthless if 

charges are imposed under circumstances that most 

consumers would not expect even if, with hindsight, 

the fees were disclosed.” 

By early February 2023, junk fee advocacy grew 

to involve more than 40 national and state consumer 

advocates who together appealed to the FTC for its 

own agency rules and actions. 

Created in 1915, the FTC has two primary 

missions: protecting competition and protecting 

consumers. It is empowered to investigate as well as 

prevent unfair methods of competition, and unfair 

or deceptive acts or practices affecting commerce. 

Consumers who suspect a company may be 

engaging in fraud, scams or bad business practices 

can share their concerns at https://reportfraud.ftc. 

gov/. 


How to Apply for FEMA Assistance 

in Florida After Hurricane Helene 

WASHINGTON -- Florida homeowners and renters in 17 counties who had 

uninsured damage or losses caused by Hurricane Helene may be eligible 

for FEMA disaster assistance. 

FEMA may be able to help with serious needs, displacement, temporary 

lodging, basic home repair costs, personal property loss or other disastercaused 

needs. Homeowners and renters in Charlotte, Citrus, Dixie, 

Franklin, Hernando, Hillsborough, Jefferson, Lafayette, Lee, Levy, 

Madison, Manatee, Pasco, Pinellas, Sarasota, Taylor and Wakulla counties 

can apply. 

If you applied to FEMA after Hurricane Debby and have additional 

damage from Hurricane Helene, you will need to apply separately for 

Helene and provide the dates of your most recent damage. Apply for 

either storm online at DisasterAssistance.gov. You can also apply using 

the FEMA mobile app or by calling FEMA’s helpline toll-free at 800- 621- 

3362. Lines are open every day and help is available in most languages. 

If you use a relay service, such as Video Relay Service (VRS), captioned 

telephone or other service, give FEMA your number for that service. To 

view an accessible video on how to apply visit Three Ways to Apply for 

FEMA Disaster Assistance - YouTube. 

FEMA’s disaster assistance offers new benefits that provide flexible 

funding directly to survivors. In addition, a simplified process and expanded 

eligibility allows Floridians access to a wider range of assistance and funds 

for serious needs. 

WHAT YOU’LL NEED WHEN YOU APPLY 

• A current phone number where you can be contacted. 

• Your address at the time of the disaster and the address where you are 

now staying. 

• Your Social Security number. 

• A general list of damage and losses. 

• Banking information if you choose direct deposit. 

• If insured, the policy number or the agent and/or the company name. 

If you have homeowners, renters or flood insurance, file a claim as 

soon as possible. FEMA cannot duplicate benefits for losses covered by 

insurance. If your policy does not cover all your disaster expenses, you may 

be eligible for federal assistance. 

For the latest information about Florida’s Hurricane Helene recovery, 

visit fema.gov/disaster/4828. Follow FEMA on X at x.com/femaregion4 or 

on Facebook at facebook.com/fema. 

Hurricane Milton from FP 

Just two weeks ago, Hurricane Helene brought more than 

eight feet of water along the Gulf Coast and devastated the 

community. Before Helene made landfall, NHC projected 

a surge of 12 feet. Along with Hurricane Ian, Helene was 

one of the only other two hurricanes where the NHC 

forecast called for such drastic storm surge levels. 

Storm surge threats from Milton 

Though weather forecasters predict the storm to hit 

the west coast by Wednesday night, Florida residents 

should expect Milton to zig zag. Berg warns the NHC’s 

predictions could be off by 60 to 70 miles, making the 

landfall prediction difficult to pinpoint. 

By the time the hurricane makes landfall, Milton’s 

wind field is forecasted to double in size, intensifying its 

impact on Florida’s west coast. 

Since Florida’s west coast is more shallow, it’s likely 

the storm will have a greater impact on the Gulf Coast and 

create a more severe hazard. With little room to dissipate, 

a storm surge cannot spread out and, instead, is quickly 

pushed up onto the coastline, according to the National 

Weather Service. Though Milton will impact both coasts, 

the east coast’s surge is projected to reach around six feet. 

Residents are advised to follow local evacuation orders 

and take proper measures if they are in a surge area. 

Forecasters have emphasized that all preparations ahead 

of Milton should be complete by Tuesday night. 

Times-Picayune reporter Kasey Bubnash contributed 

to this report. 

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A government-insured FHA loan is a great option for first-time home 

buyers because the down payment can be as low as 3.5% of the purchase 

price, and most closing costs can be included in the loan amount. 

With less stringent credit requirements, an FHA loan may be easier to 

qualify for than a conventional loan. 

SouthState’s FHA loan requirements include: 

• At least 3.5% down payment 

• Credit score of at least 5801 

• Steady employment history 

• A valid social security number or proof of residency 

Give us a call today to find out if an FHA Loan is right for you! 

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SPORTS 

Nunnie on the Sideline 

Deeply Rooted 

SPORTS HISTORY IN BLACK: 23 years 

ago, Barry Bonds tied Major League 

Baseball’s home-run record 


By Nunnie Robinson, Westside Gazette Sports Editor 

The WNBA will crown a new 

champion in ‘24 as the New York 

Liberty, led by Sabrina lonesco and 

Breanna Stewart, eliminated the 

2 time defending WNBA champion 

Las Vegas Aces 76-62, closing out 

the series 3-1. In the other semifinal, 

the Connecticut Sun defeated 

the Minnesota Lynx, evening the 

series at 2 games each. The winner 

of tonight’s game in Minneapolis 

will earn the right to face the Liberty 

for the WNBA title. 

In Major League Baseball playoffs, 

American League Division 

Series, the Kansas City Royals defeated 

the New York Yankees to 

even the series at 1-1. Yankee superstar Aaron Judge ended an 

0-16 hitless streak, beating out a ground ball for a single. The 

series now switches to Kansas City. 

In the other ALDS, the hottest team in baseball, the Detroit 

Tigers, defeated the Cleveland Gaurdians to even the series at 

1-1. The series now moves to Kansas City. 

The NLDS has proven to be just as competitive with an element 

of drama. San Diego Padres’ Manny Machado allegedly 

threw a baseball in Dodgers manager Dave Roberts’ direction. 

The teams don’t like each other as it is so this series may be 

worth watching. The Series, tied at 1-1, moves to San Diego for 

the next 2 games. The pesky, surprising New York Mets aren’t 

making life easy for the favored Philadelphia Phillies. That series, 

also tied at 1-1, moves to New York. 

One of my favorite players is Deshaun Watson, the National 

Championship quarterback from Clemson and former #1 

draft pick of the Houston Texans. A philosophical disagreement 

with the Houston hierarchy and multiple allegations of 

sexual misconduct accelerated his departure and subsequent 

suspension from football. The Cleveland Browns signed him 

to massive $237 million contract. Beset by injury, this season 

was to finally be the year that he returned to form as a premier 

NFL qb, living up to contract and leading Cleveland out 

of the abyss. Sadly, his play has been subject to derision and 

harsh criticism, many calling for his benching. It appears that 

his poor performance on the field is attributable to a lack of 

confidence and mental anxiety. Here’s one who believes in his 

ability, greatness and character, and I pray that he returns to 

his Houston playing days form. 

As difficult as it is to give up or walk away from the game that 

you’ve loved and played from little league to the NFL, and that 

now is your livelihood, I believe that Dolphins quarterback Tua 

Tagovailoa should retire from the game- just a gut-wrenching, 

instinctive feeling. 

ESPN’s Stan Becton rates the HBCU teams (FCS) dubbed: 

The Road to Atlanta. Following are rankings after week 6. 

1. Florida A&M, 2. North Carolina Central, 3. Grambling State, 

4.Jackson State, and 5.South Carolina State. 

The New England Patriots provided 

the perfect elixir for the reeling Fins. 

(Photo credit: Pats Pulpit) 

Dolphins QB Tyler Huntley attempts a pass in the face 

of mounting pressure by the Patriots defensive line. 

By Nunnie Robinson, Westside Gazette Sports Editor 

The New England Patriots provided the perfect elixir for the 

reeling Fins. A four game losing streak heading into a bye week 

was circumvented by a 15-10 victory over the Patriots in Foxboro, 

usually a predictable, certain loss in normal times. But 

these are anything but normal times for the Patriots, rebuilding 

and dealing with a coaching change, and the Dolphins, still 

hemorrhaging from the loss of quarterback Tua Tagovailoa. Or 

better yet, a tale of 2 teams. New England drafted North Carolina 

qb Drake Maye, #3 overall, in the first round but opted to 

start journeyman Jacoby Brisette because of a weak, unstable 

offensive line, coupled with other deficiencies. The Patriots are 

clearly rebuilding. The Dolphins were expected to compete for 

the East Division title in ‘24 after failing miserably against the 

Titans and Bills at the HardRock in ‘23. This season a come 

from behind victory against Jacksonville had the Dolphins 

feeling confident. Three consecutive losses and Tua’s injury 

had the pundits, naysayers, doubters and critics questioning 

the team’s direction. Here’s my question Dolfans: Are we good 

enough to compete for the East Division title or should we consider 

rebuilding like the Patriots? 

The win over the Patriots served as a temporary salve, making 

the Dolphins the only East Division winner this week as 

they defeated the Patriots, the Bills lost to Houston and the 

Jets succumbed to the Vikings overseas. leading to head coach 

robert Saleh's dismissal. Tyler Huntley showed remarkable 

progress from his first start last week and should be even better 

after a bye week and more intense preparation. There are 

so many questions to answer despite the victory against New 

England, the most important one surrounding Tua and his concussion 

issues. If he decides to play again, does that guarantee 

a division championship or a playoff spot. Is the defense capable 

of similar performances moving forward, and how do we 

get more production out of Hill, Waddle, Achane and the other 

offensive playmakers? 

Now back to the game. Led by running backs Jaylen Wright 


By Mike Patton 

(Source: NABJ Black News & Views) 

Now-retired San Francisco Giant Barry Bonds laughs with 

his daughter, Aisha, during a ceremony after the game against 

the Los Angeles Dodgers at Pacific Bell Park in San Francisco 

on Oct. 5, 2001. Photo credit: Eric Risberg, The Associated 

PressOn Oct. 4, 2001, Major 

League Baseball outfielder Barry Bonds capped off a recordsetting 

season by hitting his 70 th home run. That long ball would 

tie him with former Cardinals first baseman Mark McGwire for 

the most home runs in a season. Bonds finished that season 

with 73 home runs, a record that stands to this day. 


Coco Gauff makes history after 

cruising to China Open title 

Coco Gauff celebrates with the trophy after winning the 

women’s singles final match against Czech Republic’s 

Karolina Muchova at the China Open. Greg Baker/AFP/ 

Getty Images 

By Ben Church, CNN 

(Source: CNN ) 

US tennis star Coco 

Gauff stormed to victory in the 

China Open final on Sunday, 

sweeping past Karolina 

Muchová 6-1 6-3. 

The straight-sets victory 

makes the 20-year-old the 

first American to win the 

tournament since Serena 

Williams back in 2013 – she 

now has eight WTA titles to 

her name. 

Gauff also made WTA history 

in the process, becoming the 

first woman to win her first 

seven hard-court finals in the 

Open era. 

“I want to say congratulations 

to you Karolina. It’s great to 

see you back on tour. I think 

you’re such an amazing player 

and you deserve everything,” 

Gauff said in her post-match 

interview, before thanking 

her own team for supporting 

her through the season. 

It was an impressive 

performance from Gauff who 

wasted no time in stamping 

her authority on the final as 

she wrapped up the first-set 

in 30 minutes, a remarkable 

feat given Muchová's recent 

run. 

The Czech star, who has 

battled injuries this season, 

would have been confident 

of her chances on Sunday 

given recent victories against 

US Open winner Aryna 

Sabalenka and Olympic 

champion Zheng Qinwen. 

But, in truth, she couldn't 

match Gauff's physicality 

as the American dominated 

throughout, making only 

eight unforced errors to 

Muchová's 24. 

Gauff’s previous issues with 

serving momentarily surfaced 

at the start of the second set 

which allowed Muchova to 

take a 2-0 lead, but Gauff 

broke back instantly to 

reassert her control on the 

match. 

The title was Gauff’s first for 

nine months and first after 



Educate. Learn. Talk. 

Follow ‘Conversations on Cannabis’ on 

FAMU football challenges 

preseason dialogue with 

SWAC-opening triumph over 

Alabama State 

Despite a new coaching regime, Florida A&M 

football is still the Southwestern Athletic 

Conference’s team to beat by defeating preseason 

SWAC East champions Alabama State in Week 6. 

By Gerald Thomas III 

(Source: Tallahassee Democrat) 

Florida A&M football left Montgomery, Alabama with 

everything it wanted. 

The Rattlers won in their Southwestern Athletic Conference 


The late Henry “Hank” Aaron — then of the Atlanta 

Braves — is shown at batting practice on April 7, 1974 in 

Cincinnati, Ohio. Photo credit: The Associated Press 

SPORTS HISTORY IN BLACK: Hank Aaron 

reaches baseball home-run milestone 

By Mike Patton 

(Source: NABJ Black News & Views) 

Major League Baseball outfielder Hank Aaron never hit 


About Cannabis in Florida. 

Learn and talk about cannabis in a safe space. 

Explore FAMU’s 

free online cannabis 

education modules 

Get relevant 

information about 

marijuana in Florida 

Join Conversations On 

Cannabis each month on 

YouTube and Facebook 

MMERI.FAMU.Edu/Educate 

MMERI.FAMU.Edu/Learn 

MMERI.FAMU.Edu/Talk 

@MMERIForumRadio


Deeply Rooted 


Vote Yes on 3 

“Voting Yes on Amendment 3 will keep our people out 

of jail for small amounts of weed. When Amendment 

3 passes, we can work to destroy criminal records 

for people convicted of past and personal use of 

marijuana.” 

Attorney Ben Crump 

“Vote Yes on Amendment 3 to create 

marijuana regulations that will protect our 

communities.” 

Senator Tracie Davis 

“In my community, too many people have died 

from illegal fentanyl-laced marijuana. Vote Yes 

on Amendment 3 to save lives and support law 

enforcement.” 

Sheriff Morris Young 

The illegal sale of marijuana has led 

to record gun violence 

Vote Yes on Amendment 3 to reduce 

gun violence in our communities 

Get the Facts 

Deadline to register to vote: October 7, 2024 

Early voting: October 26 – November 2, 2024 

Election Day: November 5, 2024 

PD. POL. AD. PAID BY SMART AND SAFE FLORIDA 

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