The Westside Gazette

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PERMIT NO. 1179

Federal Grants Freeze Exposes

Disproportionate Impact

on Red States, Showing

Trump’s Willingness to

Sacrifice His Own Supporters

PAGE 11

THURSDAY, JANUARY 30 - FEBRUARY 5, 2025

VOL. 53 NO. 52 $1.00

Outrage Builds Over Trump’s Order Ending DEI

in Federal Agencies and Contracts

A MESSAGE FROM

THE PUBLISHER

National Action Network (NAN) will continue to fight for Black and Brown

communities and speak out against supporters of this race-based

American tradition. (Photo: AFGE [CC BY 2.0 (https://creativecommons.org/

licenses/by/2.0)] / Wikimedia Commons)

The Musings of a Baptist

Preacher

While many of you

were giving witness to the

national championship

game last week, my

thoughts took me back to

a different place in time

as I watched Ohio State

make rightful claim to

their victory over Notre

Dame.

I was proud of Notre

Dame, coached by a man

who was a former Ohio

State player but who

carries himself with great ROI JOHNSON

poise and dignity. My thoughts were of how far we’ve come

across the chasm of the years.

I looked at the players on both sides of the ball and

watched in wonderment the number of African American

players making a great name for themselves in this

memorable experience as they were now the standard

bearers for schools known as PWIs.

I even recalled my first understanding of OSU football,

going all the way back to 1961 when the Buckeyes’ fullback

was the husky Bob Ferguson, the one who people in my part

of the country were rooting for to win the Heisman Trophy

over “the Express” from another PWI, Syracuse University,

where the ultimate winner, Ernie Davis appeared on the

New York stage as the first AA to win the award.

Ferguson shared the Ohio State backfield in 1961

with halfbacks Paul Warfield and Matt Snell. Ferguson was

a power runner and Warfield supplied speed. The common

description of the time said, “Warfield is the lightning,

Ferguson is the thunder.”

The Buckeyes won the Big Ten Conference that year

and were voted national champions by the Football Writers

Association of America (FWAA).

Continue reading online at: thewestsidegazette.com

CRISPPI’S CHICKEN:

The Westside Gazette Newspaper

Advocates emphasized that DEI

policies benefit everyone by

promoting fairness and innovation.

By Stacy M. Brown, NNPA Newswire

Senior National Correspondent, @

StacyBrownMedia

President Donald J. Trump’s first-day

executive order to eliminate diversity,

equity, and inclusion (DEI) policies across

federal agencies and contractors has drawn

widespread condemnation. Critics say

the move systematically undermines civil

rights, economic equity, and decades of

progress toward inclusion for marginalized

communities.

The order terminates DEI considerations

in federal hiring, promotions, and

contracting. It revokes affirmative action

criteria in federal contracting and directs

agencies to investigate private-sector DEI

practices, claiming these measures violate

civil rights. Trump’s administration heralded

the order as a return to “colorblind equality,”

but civil rights leaders, labor advocates, and

lawmakers strongly disagreed.

CBC: “A Step Backward for America”

The Congressional Black Caucus (CBC)

lambasted the order, calling it “an attack on

economic opportunity for Black and minority

communities.” CBC Chair Yvette Clarke

said the action “does nothing to help our

communities grow economically or address

the costs of living for hardworking American

families.”

Clarke connected the move to the

Supreme Court’s recent decision to end raceconscious

college admissions, stating, “This

administration is dismantling tools that have

opened doors to education and opportunity.”

Broad Condemnation from Advocates

Labor unions, civil rights organizations,

and other groups responded with outrage.

Everett Kelley, president of the American

Federation of Government Employees,

warned that eliminating DEI policies would

harm both federal employees and the public

they serve. “These programs promote fairness

and build a federal government that reflects

the diverse population it serves,” Kelley

(Cont’d on page 14)

Harvard Under Fire for Slashing

Slavery Initiative Staff as Black

History Faces Nationwide Attacks

By Stacy M. Brown

NNPA Newswire Senior

National Correspondent

@StacyBrownMedia

Harvard University

abruptly terminated staff

contributing to the research

component of its Slavery

Remembrance Program

on January 23, leaving

employees without notice

and sparking outrage

about the institution’s

commitment to its $100

million Harvard and the

Legacy of Slavery Initiative.

The decision comes during

a national wave of setbacks

to diversity, equity, and

inclusion (DE&I) efforts,

widespread layoffs of

minority employees, and

actions by states and schools

to diminish the teaching of

Black history.


A Fresh, Flavorful, and Community-Focused

Addition to Miami’s Culinary Scene

Pro Football Hall of Famer

Randy Moss and Restaurateur

Brittany Tolliferreo Team Up

to Redefine Fast-Food Chicken

Submitted by Ramon Robinson

When you think of fast-food chicken,

the usual suspects come to mind—until you

experience the elevated culinary approach

of Crisppi’s Chicken. Nestled at 2917

Biscayne Boulevard in Miami, this new

hotspot is redefining what it means to serve

fast food. Legendary Pro Football Hall of

Famer Randy Moss has teamed up with restaurateur Brittany Tolliferreo

to bring this exceptional dining experience to South Florida, combining

quality, hospitality, and community-focused values.

A Feast Fit for Royalty

On Saturday, I had the privilege of

attending the launch of Crisppi’s Chicken,

where I met the visionary behind it all,

Brittany Tolliferreo. From the moment I

stepped into the restaurant, it was clear

this wasn’t just another fast-food joint. The

hospitality of the staff and the pristine

cleanliness of the space set the tone for a

memorable experience. Brittany’s welcoming

nature and attention to detail shone as

she presented an incredible spread that

showcased the best of Crisppi’s menu.

We indulged in the signature Chicken

Friesand Sweet Thai Wings, as well as a

trio of standout sandwiches: Honey Buffalo

Bacon Ranch, Sweet Thai, and Honey Garlic


@TheWestsideGazetteNewspaper

Westside Gazette

Highlights

Responses from

City Manager

Finalists Rickelle

Williams and

Jason Davis

By Bobby R. Henry, Sr.

As Fort Lauderdale prepares

to appoint its next City

Manager, the Westside Gazette

sought detailed responses from

the finalists to address some of

the city’s most pressing issues,

including climate change,

infrastructure, economic

equity, and sustainable

growth. As the publisher, I

emphasized the importance of

this opportunity to hear from

candidates on how they plan to

lead the city into a prosperous

and equitable future.

The finalists were asked

four critical questions. Below

are the thoughtful responses

provided by two of the

candidates, Rickelle Williams

and Jason Davis.

I reached out to Matthew

von der Hayden who was the

third candidate but dropped

out. When asked what

prompted him to drop out, he

said, “I don’t have a comment.”

1. Addressing Flooding,

Climate Change, and

Infrastructure Challenges

Rickelle Williams

emphasized an equitable

approach, proposing a

comprehensive assessment of

all neighborhoods to prioritize

critical areas based on health,

safety, and property impacts.

She advocated for investments

in green infrastructure, such

as rain gardens and permeable

pavements, alongside

upgrades to aging stormwater,

utility, and seawall systems

to mitigate climate impacts.

Community engagement and


Thursday

Jan 30 th

Partly Cloudy

Sunrise: 6:48am

Fri

71°

49°

77°

61°

70°

54°

70°

54°

66°

47°

Sunset: 5:28pm

Sat Sun Mon Tues

WESTSIDE GAZETTE IS A MEMBER:

National Newspaper Publishers Association (NNPA)

Southeastern African-American Publishers Association (SAAPA)

Florida Association of Black Owned Media (FABOM)

73°

53°

gnificant day of unity

Thursday, Jan. 18,

l and Libby Johnson

Civic Engagement

momentous occasion

er students, faculty,

, and friends to

the University’s

lishment – securing

position in Home

igious “Retool Your

ition and receiving a

,000 grant dedicated

ancement.

ler temperatures and

, the collective spirit

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in yesterday’s

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tdoor They dining try to praise sets us to

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PAGE 2 • JANUARY 30 - FEBRUARY 5, 2025

We’re not the answer

You keep saying we’re the answer

That’s not something you should believe in

If we’re the answer then why in the world do we still kill then

Bc this generation’s still “woke”

We just say the truth and mean it since we have no master

ication, with the only

iveness after

ated service.

e to 30,000

have been

or at least

ut receiving

ncome-driven

will now see

n.

Dr. William Berry, Provost and Acting President,

expressed excitement and gratitude, stating, “We are

excited about this project and grateful to all those who

Kaalijah Lollar, a 16 year

old sophomore student at

Miami Central high has

a wealth of talents. Her

gift of writing, singing,

dancing, and acting is

beyond measure. Now she

has unleashed her gift of

poetry.

participated in the vote for B-CU. These enhancements

will help create more vibrant and engaging spaces for

our students to retreat on campus for a brain break or

find inspiration through the downtime.”

Home Depot’s “Retool Your School” program,

newly elected Tax Collector

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

providing over $9.25 million in campus improvement

grants to Historically Black Colleges and Universities

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


Unapologetic, if they’re silent we spoke

speaking the truth, spit it until we choke

And Don’t ever forget we don’t really care who’s offended

because what we say isn’t a joke

Tell me if this generation’s the best y’all had

Then why shame us for truly being who we are cause it’s rather sad

The LGBTQ and black excellence are quick to be ridiculed but we’re the

Biden credited the success

of these relief efforts to the

corrective measures taken

to address broken student

loan programs. He asserted

that these fixes have removed

barriers preventing borrowers

from accessing the relief they

were entitled to under the law.

proof of a living gem

Simply pawns in your sick game of life

So we get overwhelmed

The cycle of ignorance and a lack of knowledge repeats

If we never learn our lesson we’ll all get set to delete

I’d rather not live for the world but just live to die because I won’t take

the world with me

I’ll only have GOD on my side

As I take in this toxic world one bit at a time like a worsening cancer

Please remember the youth can only do so much unlike the adults of

the world so alas,

We’re not the answer.

This past weekend, we proudly

welcomed a new group of young men into

the 5000 Role Models of Excellence Project.

Their induction marks the beginning of

The president outlined the

Former broader Black achievements of his

administration in supporting

students and borrowers,

including

Turns 108

achieving the most

significant increases in Pell

Years Old

Grants in over a decade, aimed

Submitted by

Continue Julia Ann Tamer reading online at:

thewestsidegazette.com

an inspiring journey toward leadership,

mentorship, and success.

A heartfelt thank you to Principal

Francois, Mr. Baker, and Site Director

www.thewestsidegazette.com

Celebrating Our Newest 5000 Role Models of Excellence Inductees

The 17th Judicial Circuit’s Judge

Elijah H. Williams took the stage at the

Broward Center for the Performing

Arts on 1/7/25 and swore Broward’s

Abbey Ajayi into office amid

pomp and circumstance.

Ms. Ajayi is the first ever elected

Tax Collector in Broward

County! Congratulations!

Teacher From

North Carolina

(Source BlackNews.Com)

Hay for their outstanding leadership and

dedication to empowering our youth.

We are 5000!

Words compiled by KamarJackson,

Sophomore at Dillard High School

College

Prep

entrenched

adjective

(adjective)

Word of

the Week

being (of an attitude, rest; habit, inactive or belief) firmly or

motionless;

established and difficult

quiet;

or

still:

unlikely

a

to change; ingrained,

quiescent mind.

HOW TO USE IN A SENTENCE:

Their forces are entrenched, very deep farther to the East.

NATIONWIDE — Julia Ann

Teamer, a former teacher from

Charlotte, North Carolina, recently

celebrated turning 108 years old. She

is known

quiescent

for her decades of service to

Charlotte Mecklenburg Schools and

her active role in the community.

Teamer dedicated over three

decades to teaching at Charlotte

Mecklenburg Schools, leaving a lasting

impact on countless students. Outside

the classroom, she served as the first

lady of Cosmopolitan Community

Church in the Dalebrook area and led

[ kwee-es-uhnt, kwahy- ]

HOW TO USE QUIESCENT IN A

SENTENCE

a local Girl Scout troop.

Her family credits her longevity to

a healthy lifestyle, avoiding smoking

and alcohol, and her unwavering faith,

It’s

Continue

possible

reading

that

online

other

at:

volcanoes with

long thewestsidegazette.com

quiescentperiods may also have

subtle but protracted warning periods

as well.

Leia’s Mathematics

Corner

KASAI HAD 29 GAMES. HE GAVE 19 OF THE

GAMES TO HIS FRIENDS. HOW MANY

GAMES DOES KASAI HAVE LEFT?

543

x 2

238

- 45

Created by Leia Palmer 3rd grader!

Word Search

List Compiled

by Kamar

Jackson,

Freshmen

at Dillard

High School


By Stacy M. Brown



@StacyBrownMedia

Under President Donald

Trump’s Project 2025, the

administration has launched an

unprecedented effort to dismantle

diversity, equity, and inclusion

(DE&I) programs. Federal

agencies are now prohibited from

observing Black History Month,

and employees involved in DE&I

initiatives have been terminated.

Critics argue these measures

represent a full-on attack on

marginalized communities

and signal a clear directive

for corporations to follow suit.

Trump’s administration, which

has no diversity in its ranks,

has been accused of setting a

dangerous precedent.

Some companies, however,

remain committed to their

DE&I efforts. Organizations like

Costco, JPMorgan Chase, Delta

Airlines, American Airlines,

Southwest Airlines, and Apple

continue to view diversity as a

cornerstone of their workforce

strategies, refusing to back down

despite mounting pressure from

conservatives and the White

House.

Corporations Holding the Line

Costco’s board of directors

recently rejected the National

Center for Public Policy Research

(NCPPR) proposal that sought

to force the company to publish

risks associated with its DE&I

programs or eliminate them

entirely. The board reaffirmed

the company’s commitment to

inclusion ahead of a January 23

shareholder vote.

“Our success at Costco

Wholesale has been built

on service to our critical

stakeholders: employees,

Continue reading online at:


characterized the pardon as a “fun” start

to his second term.

Law Enforcement and Victims’ Families

Condemn Pardons

Former U.S. Capitol Police Sgt.

Aquilino Gonell, who sustained injuries

during the attack, called the pardons

“a desecration of justice.” Gonell added,

“Releasing those who assaulted us



JANUARY 30 - FEBRUARY 5, 2025 • PAGE 3

As Attacks Against DE&I Heighten, Costco and Apple Prove

Inclusion Remains Good Business

Republican Women’s Group Uses Hitler

To Promote Children’s Reading List

By Jovonne Ledet

The Tennessee Federation

(Photo: Getty Images) of Republican Women is

facing backlash for using

Adolf Hitler to promote a reading list for children.

The reading list, obtained by Chattanooga Times Free Press, cites

Hitler as an example of leadership while encouraging parents to train

youth through literacy. Dated March 2024, the “Growing American

Patriots Through Literacy” list can be found on the Tennessee

Federation of Republican Women’s website.

“How do we make the changes necessary? Proverbs 22:6 teaches us

that if ‘we train up a child in the way he should go; even when he is old,

he will not depart from it,’” the group wrote on its reading list before

citing the Nazi leader.

“Hitler and all intelligent leaders throughout history have

understood that the way to change a country was through the training

of its youth, to get them while they are young.”

The books suggested on the list include “Camilla

Can Vote” by Tennessee Sen. Marsha Blackburn

(R) and “A is for Abigail: An Almanac of Amazing

Americans” by Lynne Cheney.

“We are providing reading lists and suggestions

for materials that can be shared through local Clubs

with children and grandchildren and recommended

for local libraries,” the reading list says.

Social media users questioned why the group

decided to cite Hitler as a source for educating the

youth.

“I don’t know why they would use Hitler, I have

no idea,” Patsy Henry, a Chattanooga-area member

of the Tennessee Federation of Republican Women,

told the Times Free Press.

Trump Pardons January 6 Rioters in First Executive Action, Sparks

Outrage from Law Enforcement and Families

NNPA NEWSWIRE — Trump has

long referred to January 6 rioters as

“hostages,” framing their convictions as

politically motivated. Speaking to NBC

News, Trump characterized the pardon

as a “fun” start to his second term.

By Stacy M Brown

NNPA Senior National

Correspondent

@StacyBrownMedia

Four years after the deadly

January 6 Capitol insurrection, Donald

Trump, now back in the Oval Office,

has signed a sweeping pardon for

approximately 1,500 convicted rioters.

This unprecedented move, which

includes high-profile figures like former

Proud Boys chairman Enrique Tarrio,

KKK Posting

Flyers In Kentucky

Telling Immigrants

To ‘Leave Now’

By BIN

Kentucky authorities have launched

an investigation after racist Ku Klux Klan

(KKK) flyers telling immigrants to “leave

now” surfaced in multiple cities.

According to photos obtained by WKRC,

the racist flyers, found in Ludlow, Fort Wright,

and Fort Mitchell, depict a cartoon Uncle

Sam kicking a family of five and holding a

proclamation referring to “Mass Deportation”

on January 20, which marked President

Donald Trump’s Inauguration Day. The flyer

also urged citizens to “Monitor & Track all

Immigrants REPORT THEM ALL.”

“We are aware and have already taken one

report for this disturbing and disgusting KKK

propaganda that is being passed around our

community. This hateful garbage has been

turning up in other cities as well,” the Ludlow

Police Department said in a statement on

Tuesday (January 21). “We do not support or

condone this type of behavior and if you feel

that you are being harassed or threatened DO

NOT HESITATE in calling and filing a police

report.”

The flyers were produced by the KKK based

in Maysville, Ky. At the bottom of the flyer,

the white supremacist group invited people to

join and offered to send informational packets

and applications for $1.

“On behalf of myself, Council, and Staff, I

want to condemn this flyer and state in the

strongest possible terms that this type of

hateful garbage is loathsome and deplorable,

has ignited fierce backlash from law

enforcement, victims’ families, and

political leaders.

Nayib Hassan, Tarrio’s lawyer,

confirmed his client is being processed

for release from federal prison. Tarrio

was serving a 22-year sentence for

seditious conspiracy, one of the most

severe charges brought against January

6 defendants. Despite not being

present at the Capitol during the riot,

prosecutors argued Tarrio played a key

role in organizing the attack that left

five law enforcement officers dead, over

140 injured, and the nation’s democracy

shaken.

Trump has long referred to January

6 rioters as “hostages,” framing their

convictions as politically motivated.

Speaking to NBC News, Trump

Photo: Getty Images

does not represent the Fort Wright Community

or the values of our businesses and residents,

will not be tolerated in the City of Fort Wright

and should not be tolerated by our society as a

whole,” Mayor Dave Hatter said in a statement,

adding that he encourages residents to “stay

alert and report anything suspicious.”

Bellevue Police Chief Jon McClain said he

has contacted the FBI about the racist flyers.

“I sent an email to the agent in charge of

the Covington office to let them know this

propaganda is making its rounds,” McClain

said in a statement.

Signature of President Donald J. Trump.

Photo illustration for NNPA Newswire.

Federal agencies are now prohibited from observing Black History Month, and employees involved in

DE&I initiatives have been terminated.

Haiti – Leaders Declare Trump’s

Plan a Catastrophe for the Country

By nycaribnews

Leslie Voltaire, the head of Haiti’s interim presidential

council, declared that the Trump administration’s actions to halt

aid, deport migrants, and bar refugees would be “catastrophic”

for Haiti. The remark was made by Voltaire in an interview

with The Associated Press in Rome during a Vatican meeting

with Pope Francis. To request assistance for Haiti, he went to

the pope and said, “I’m knocking on the doors of people who

love Haiti. The pope loves Haiti, and he is eager to help.”

Voltaire talked about the awful situation of affairs in Haiti,

where gangs have killed citizens and are allowed to operate

without consequence. Losing humanitarian aid will make the

situation worse for Haiti’s 11.4 million people, half of whom

are already hungry. He pointed out that gangs are harassing

the population and that thousands of individuals are deported

from the Dominican Republic every week. “The situation will

be catastrophic” with the new US policy.

President Donald Trump questioned why the United States

would admit immigration from Haiti and “shithole countries”

in Africa during his first term in office, using foul language.

Although the White House did not refute his remarks, it did

add that Trump is in favor of immigration laws that accept

“those who can contribute to our society.”

According to Voltaire, around 150,000 Haitians are

accepted under the “Temporary Protection System,” out of the

approximately 1.5 million Haitians living in the United States.

Haiti cannot manage the surge, Voltaire added, adding that

Trump has stated that he will evict everyone.

According to a report by the United Nations migration

agency, gang violence has been a major factor in the threefold

increase in internal displacement in Haiti over the past year,

which has already surpassed one million individuals. Food

insecurity has gotten worse due to “relentless gang violence” in

Port-au-Prince, which has caused a near-doubling of relocation

and the collapse of healthcare and other services, according to

the International Organization for Migration. Approximately

200,000 individuals, primarily from the Dominican Republic,

have been forcefully repatriated to Haiti in the past year.

Even though strong gangs control 85% of the metropolis,

Voltaire and his transitional administration want to take the

nation to general elections by November of next year. He thinks

that Haiti may have elections this year provided they increase

the number of personnel in their international police force by

several thousand. With more than 600 policemen, Kenya leads

the international police force, falling short of the 1,000 officers

promised. The force is still below its expected number of 2,500

officers, despite the arrival of an extra 150 Guatemalans and eight Salvadorean soldiers. Benin

has promised an extra 2,000 troops, according to Voltaire.

“We have to do a referendum on a new constitution and also the election at the end of

November. I say that we can do the elections because we have like eight departments, like 80

percent of the country. We can do the election.”

Since President Jovenel Moïse was assassinated in 2021, gangs have become more powerful

in Haiti. Although some gangs have expressed a desire to participate in politics, Voltaire ruled

down the idea, stating, “I don’t think they should be around the table.” They seem like crooks to

me.


BlueYear

Resolution

$125 Toilet

Rebate

Check eligibility and apply at

Call 8002709794 for additional details.


Westside Gazette

Calendar of Events

Dillard Center For The Arts presents Dillard Bands Live

Friday, Jan. 31 at 7 p.m.,

at DCA Mainstage Theatre,

2501 NW 11th Street,

Fort Lauderdale, 33311

Join us on Friday, January

31st for Dillard Bands

Live, a spectacular evening of musical excellence that

showcases the incredible talent and dedication of our

students. Featuring performances by DCA.

Jazz Band, Wind Orchestra, Symphonic Band and the

dynamic showmanship of the DCA Marching Band!

From soulful ballads to high-energy grooves, Dillard

Bands Live will have something for everyone. Come

and celebrate the hard work, talent, and passion of our

incredible students as they put their hearts into every

performance.

Let’s fill the room with support and appreciation for the

outstanding musicians of Dillard High. Don’t miss this

evening of music that will leave you inspired and uplifted!

For more info call (754) 322-0838

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


From February 14-23, 2025, IGNITE Broward returns for its

fourth year, transforming Broward County with spectacular

light and technology art installations across Fort Lauderdale,

Hollywood, and Dania Beach.

This free, family-friendly festival showcases immersive experiences

that blend cutting-edge creativity with interactive

technology. Prepare to be amazed as artists reimagine

urban landscapes through light, sound, and innovation.

Exhibit Celebrating the Harlem Renaissance Opens

February 3 at AARLCC

- "Reveal the Beauty" honors the era's art, culture and literature -

BROWARD COUNTY, FL - Broward

County's African American Research

Library and Cultural Center (AARL-

CC), 2650 Sistrunk Blvd., Fort Lauderdale,

FL 33311, presents Reveal

the Beauty: The Literature and Art of

the Harlem Renaissance. This new

exhibit of rare books and art of the

Harlem Renaissance from AARLCC's

Dorothy Porter Wesley Collection will be

on display from February 3 through June 28 during

library hours, and is free and open to the public. The exhibit's

opening reception will be held at AARLCC on Saturday,

February 1 from 6-8:30PM. The reception is also free and

open to the public, but registration is requested.

Reveal the Beauty: The Literature and Art of the Harlem

Renaissance celebrates the centennial of the Harlem Renaissance

and its role in shaping African American artistic

expression from the 1920s to the 1940s. These dynamic

years redefined Black identity and challenged stereotypes

through a probing array of literature and visual arts. While

closely associated with Harlem, its influence reached Black

communities across the U.S., South Florida, and worldwide.

Reveal the Beauty emphasizes not only renowned artists

and writers like Langston Hughes, Zora Neale Hurston and

James Weldon Johnson, whose works captured themes of

resilience and cultural pride, but also the lesser-known artists

and activists who collectively shaped this vibrant cultural

landscape.

Dorothy Porter Wesley was an influential librarian and

scholar, and her collection of manuscripts and rare books

is a vital repository of 19th- and 20th-century Black authors

that enriches our understanding of the Harlem Renaissance.

Reveal the Beauty: The Literature and Art of the Harlem

Renaissance is organized by the African American

Research Library and Research Center and is curated by

Christopher Norwood, founder of Hampton Art Lovers, in

consultation with Shawn Christian, professor of English at

Florida International University and AARLCC staff.

For more information, please contact the African American

Research Library and Cultural Center at (954) 357-

6282.

1) General Body Meeting - Saturday, February

1, 2025 at 10 a.m. EST. This meeting will be held

in-person at Norwood Park and virtually via

zoom platform. Meeting Materials will be available

later this week.

Name:

Address:

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JANAURY 30 - FEBRUARY 5, 2024 • PAGE 5

New Research Shows African Americans

Face Sharply Higher Dementia Risks

The significant increase in estimated risk means that roughly 514,000 Americans could develop dementia

this year alone, with projections rising to approximately 1 million new cases annually by 2060.

By Stacy M. Brown NNPA Newswire Senior National

Correspondent @StacyBrownMedia

A new study reveals that Americans over the age of 55

have a 42 percent chance of developing dementia, a figure

more than double that reported in previous research. The

significant increase in estimated risk means that roughly

514,000 Americans could develop dementia this year alone,

with projections rising to approximately 1 million new cases

annually by 2060.

Dementia, characterized by progressive declines in memory,

concentration, and judgment, is becoming more prevalent due

to the aging U.S. population, the study concluded. Factors such

as genetics, high blood pressure, diabetes, obesity, poor diet,

lack of exercise, and mental health challenges also contribute

to the rising dementia rates.

According to the study, earlier underestimations of dementia

risk were likely due to unreliable recording in health records

and death certificates, insufficient monitoring of early-stage

cases, and underreporting of cases among racial minorities,

who are especially vulnerable.

Broward Health

Foundation Announces

Mark Kent As New Chair

of its Board Of Directors

MARK KENT

By Lineth Fernandez

FORT LAUDERDALE,

FL – The Broward Health

Foundation is pleased to

announce the appointment of

Mark Kent as the new Chair

of its Board of Directors.

“We are delighted to

welcome Mark as our new

board chairman,” said Don

Eachus, president of the

Broward Health Foundation.

“His exceptional leadership,

unwavering commitment

to healthcare and lifelong

dedication to philanthropy

will undoubtedly elevate

the Foundation’s mission

and support its continued

success.”

As chair, Kent will guide

the Board in enhancing

philanthropic support for the

Broward Health Foundation’s

critical programs and services.

A long-time supporter

and board member of the

Foundation, Kent has made a

lasting impact with significant

contributions, including a

generous $500,000 donation

to cover housing expenses for

Broward Health’s Graduate

Medical Education residents

from Meharry Medical College

in the 2023 academic year.

“Broward Health is

a tremendous asset to

our community. Both

professionally and personally,

I’ve witnessed the progress

the system has made and

the undeniable growth and

success they are enjoying

under Shane Strum’s

leadership,” said Kent. “As a

resident of Broward County,

I consider it an honor to be

part of that team through my

work with the board and am

thrilled to assume the role of

chair for the Broward Health

Foundation.”

Kent’s commitment to

philanthropy began as a

teen, inspired by his church,

St. James Lutheran, which

helped Cuban families relocate

to the U.S. He furthered his

efforts by volunteering on

mission trips to Guatemala,

Haiti, Honduras and other

locations. Over the years,

he has contributed over

$10,000,000 to various



The study investigated variation in 60-day post-discharge

clinical, financial, and mental health outcomes of diverse

patients with COVID-19. (Photo: iStockphoto /

aAAA

This Week in Health: Glaucoma

Conducted by a team from NYU Langone Health with

contributions from Johns Hopkins University and other

institutions, the research utilized data from the Atherosclerosis

Risk in Communities Neurocognitive Study (ARIC-NCS).

Since 1987, this study has monitored the vascular health

and cognitive function of nearly 16,000 participants, making

it the longest-followed cohort of African Americans studying

cognition and heart health.

The study, published in Nature Medicine, indicates that

women and Black adults, along with individuals carrying the

APOE4 gene variant, face higher risks of developing dementia,

with lifetime risks ranging from 45 percent to 60 percent in

these groups.

Dr. Josef Coresh, the study’s senior investigator from NYU

Langone, noted the expected increase in dementia cases due to

longer life expectancies and the high number of Americans now

over age 65. He underlined the importance of early intervention

strategies that target heart health to potentially slow cognitive

decline and reduce the onset of dementia.

The study also links hearing loss among older adults to

increased dementia risk, recommending enhanced testing

and government support for hearing aids to promote healthy

hearing.

“The pending population boom in dementia cases poses

significant challenges for health policymakers, who must

refocus their efforts on strategies to minimize the severity of

dementia cases, as well as plans to provide more healthcare

services for those with dementia,” Dr. Coresh stated.

Child Hunger Should Not Become the Norm in Florida

By Sky Beard, Florida

director of No Kid Hungry

January is often a time for

new beginnings, resolutions,

and aspirations. For many

families, it means another

month of tough decisions

when it comes to affording

nutritious food. Reality check:

families often experience food

insecurity year-round.

A statewide poll from No

Kid Hungry Florida shows

this challenge is not only felt

by families hovering near the

poverty line. Middle-income

households have reported

buying less healthy foods to

stretch their grocery budgets,

while lower-income families

are making difficult decisions

between paying the rent and

purchasing groceries.

No one should have

to choose between two

necessities. Unfortunately,

this is becoming a regular

predicament for many

families across the state,

including those in South

Florida. A parent in Miami-

Dade shared: “It has been

difficult. I stopped paying the

rent to be able to afford food.”

Nearly eighty percent of

households earning between

$50,000-99,000 said food

costs are rising faster than

their income. That often

results in parents having to

completely forgo protein and

fresh produce to afford their

grocery bill. With the rising

cost of everyday essentials,

utility bills and housing,

families are struggling - and

that means their kids are too.

A local teacher told us: “I

see children eat as much as

they can at school because it

will be their only meal.”

Child hunger should not

become our norm. Yet, each

year, we are seeing this

number grow. In Broward,

Miami-Dade, and Monroe

County, more than 180,000

children are experiencing

hunger. Statewide, it’s one in

five kids.

Ending child hunger

requires a multifaceted

approach, but there is one

solution that can make a

significant difference in

IT PAYS TO

ADVERTISE

IN THE

WESTSIDE GAZETTE

CALL

(954) 525-1489 FOR

MORE INFORMATION

Florida’s ability to tackle food

insecurity: Summer EBT, or

SUN Bucks. This program

helps eligible families

stretch their budget in the

summertime when their kids

are not in school by providing

$120 per child in grocery

benefits.

Florida remains one of

just 12 states that are not

participating - leaving roughly

$259 million in federal dollars

on the table that would help

keep 2.1 million kids from

facing summer hunger. This

year, we have an opportunity

to change that.

By saying “yes” to SUN

Bucks, Florida would help

nourish millions of children,

while funneling as much

as $466 million back into

local economies and rural

communities across our state.

When children receive the

healthy meals they need each

day, they have the nutrients

to grow and develop. They

can focus in class which often

results in higher performance.

Prioritizing our children’s

nutrition positively impacts

our state’s future. Our future

workforce, economy, and

community depend on this

Westside Health Brief

Marsha Mullings, MPH

January 27, 2025

•

•

•

•

foundation.

It is time for change.

Florida must choose to

participate in SUN Bucks and

help end the hungriest time of

year – summer.


WESTSIDE

GAZETTE

Bobby R. Henry, Sr.

PUBLISHER

NEWSPAPER STAFF

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ADMINISTRATIVE

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Arri D. Henry

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Carma L. Henry

COMMUNITY NEWS

EDITOR

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Robinson SPORTS

Editor

Elizabeth D. Henry

CIRCULATION

MANAGER

NoRegret Media

WEBMASTER

Carma T. Taylor

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IT SPECIALIST

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Yvonne Henry: EDITOR

(Emeritus)

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that all are hurt as long as anyone

is held back.

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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.

The Westside Gazette reserves

the right to edit letters. Letters

should be 500 words or less.

Federal Budget:

Golden Eggs (Part II)

“Billionaires of integrity are as essential to society as

tributaries are to Oceans. Yet a simple fable has the power

to save a nation!” John Johnson II.. 01/29/25

By John Johnson II

As you recall, the fable “ The

Goose That Laid The Golden Eggs”

was used as a metaphor to highlight

the urgent and potentially catastrophic

fate of America’s Federal Budget. If

government officials don’t intervene

to stop the budget from being gutted,

we could be hurtling toward a severe

economic crisis. It’s not the greedy and

senseless farmer robbing the budget.

It remains a platoon of clandestine

thieves operating as accounts payable

personnel, lobbyists, fraudsters, and complicit, wasteful

executives/managers.

Despite the thievery assault on the Federal Budget to steal its

money (Golden Eggs), essential facts must be highlighted. For

example, for decades, the government has continually spent

more money than it has received as tax revenue. Consequently,

this has resulted in a significant increase in the national debt.

Simply put, our government is spending money it doesn’t

have in its budget, and there’s no Goose to lay golden eggs.

Unfortunately, this blind spending has led to uneventful

battles between Republicans and Democrats about how high to

raise the threatening national debt.

The national debt is not just a number on a balance sheet. It

threatens the U.S. government’s ability to respond to security

threats, provide funds for defense, allocate disaster aid to

states, and stimulate economic growth. These threats should

serve as a wake-up call to Congress that the current tax code is

inadequate for generating enough revenue, “Golden Eggs,” for

the government to meet its financial obligations.

In other words, how can the government extract more taxes

from workers who are already struggling to pay rent and buy

groceries and extend tax breaks to billionaires? If taxpayers

were forced to pay higher taxes, this would be tantamount to

treating them as though their pockets were filled with “Golden

Eggs.”

Unfortunately, the federal budget’s “Golden Eggs” can also

be drained by Officials who enact laws that prevent various

corporate entities from paying their fair share of taxes. Based

on the ‘trickle-down philosophy,’ these laws have not worked

to ensure money reaches those at the bottom of the economic

ladder. They haven’t

provided fairness nor reduced the number of impoverished

people.

Currently, approximately 22 million and 6.8 million white

and Black people live in poverty, respectively. Laws should

focus on ensuring that everyone, from the smallest taxpayer

to the largest corporation, contributes to the well-being of our

society.

Hopefully, this information linked again to the fable will

shed light on the destructiveness of selfish greed, racism,

lust /misuse of power, and the sheer ignorance of the reasons

past and recent 20 th -century empires collapsed. Also, why do

governmental Officials act as though their priority is to protect

and ensure that billionaires become even more wealthy?

Rightfully, billionaires earned their wealth through hard

work, ingenuity, and the delivery of excellent services and

products. Nevertheless, the government has the responsibility

to protect the poor, homeless, poorly paid workers, and

marginalized individuals and to avoid entanglement or the

furtherance of any religious doctrine.

Amazingly, there’s a true story and not a fable. A CEO, Dan

Price in Seattle, in 2015 took a pay cut and shared his “Golden

Eggs. He did this to raise each employees’ salary to $70,000. He

said, “I hope others will follow his lead in tackling inequality.”

Regrettably, naysayers have labeled him as a ‘lunatic.’

YOU HAVE THE POWER TO MAKE A DIFFERENCE! As a

member of the public, your voice, your vote, and your Senators

can shape the future of our Federal Budget. Your engagement

is crucial. It’s time to stand tall and demand fair taxation and

payment of a living wage to workers.

YOU BE THE JUDGE!

Trump’s America Last Agenda is

a Knife in the Back of Working

By Ben Jealous

D o n a l d

Trump’s playbook

has always

been to

campaign like

a populist and

govern like an

oligarch. But it

is still shocking

just how brutally he went

after our country’s working

people in the first few days

– even the first few hours

– after he was sworn in last

week.

Donald Trump’s actions

on Day One of his presidency,

and each day since then, have

laid bare his willingness to

undermine the health and

wealth of working families.

He is determined to pollute

our air and water. And for all

his tough talk about China,

he is rapidly ceding vital

economic ground to China as

Deeply Rooted

he attempts to shutter the new

factories powering our nation

with clean energy. A true

“America First” agenda would

focus on American leadership

on the global stage. And it

would put the American

people first. Instead, he is

putting Americans’ last by

sacrificing our health and

our jobs in favor of corporate

greed.

In the first minutes of his

presidency, President Trump

promised to “drill, baby, drill”

in his inaugural address.

In the first hours, in a

flurry of Day One executive

orders, he declared an ‘energy

emergency’ and moved to:

claw back unspent Inflation

Reduction Act (IRA) and

Bipartisan Infrastructure

Law (BIL) funds; withdraw

the US from the Paris

Climate Agreement; overturn

protections against offshore

drilling for more than 625


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

the right to publish Views and Opinions by Contributing Writers that

may not necessarily reflect those of the Staff and Management of

The Westside Gazette Newspaper and are solely the product of the

responsible individual(s) who submit comments published in this

newspaper.

The Southern Truth: Hold Up Vance,

This Philosophy Can’t Advance!

Screenshot Photo by Gloria Zuurveen

The Southern Truth

By Gloria Zuurveen, Editor-in-Chief

An article in The Federalist, written by Brianna Lyman,

quoted J.D. Vance, saying, “Britain began establishing the 13

original colonies in the early 1600s. Over the next century or

so, hundreds of thousands of Brits moved to the British colonies

that were established by settlers—not immigrants. There was

no ‘nation’ being immigrated to by the first settlers. The Brits

didn’t come to America to join a pre-existing country. It was just

land. There were no laws, borders, maps, or written language.

The British settlers came to uncharted land to establish

colonies under British rule. They were entrepreneurs building

this nation from scratch, not immigrants joining a pre-existing

nation.”

WOW! What a statement from a Yale man. And with this,

they have a plan. If this is it, then we are all in trouble because

this rhetoric is no bubble—it’s reality. This is what he truly

believes, conditioned by his own narrow world view. Hillbilly

Elegy may be in his bones, but that philosophy is kicking me

and all others like me from the very land we’ve called home—

land that has been ours for centuries, long before 1619 or

even 1492. Millions had already roamed, lived, and made this

land their birthright and their God-given right to exist, free of

atrocity and injustice. And now, here we are, confronting a vile,

diabolical idea that threatens our existence once again.

But let me make this clear: As Black people, we will not be

complicit in this way of thinking. It is tantamount to genocide

to uphold such a vicious lie. We will not stand silent while

history is rewritten to erase our presence, our contributions,

and our rightful claim to this land.

This philosophy must not advance. Not now, not ever. If

Vance’s story is true—if, as he says, the land was “just land”

with no laws, no borders, no maps—then it follows that he is

erasing the very existence of those who came before him. He

claims that the settlers came to “uncharted land,” as if the

millions of Indigenous peoples and Africans who lived here

before were invisible. He ignores the truth: the land was not

uninhabited. The people who lived here were not waiting for

European settlers to claim ownership through violence and

bloodshed.

These settlers, who Vance seems to champion, were not

just “entrepreneurs” as he suggests. They were colonizers who

imposed themselves on peaceful Indigenous nations and

enslaved African people to build their “new” world. They came

with guns and violence, not with a mutual understanding or

hospitality, but with force and bloodshed.

Now, Vance is claiming these settlers were the “originals,”

the rightful heirs to the land, and that the rest of us, especially,

Black people, somehow don’t belong. But what Vance and

his radical allies fail to see is that the true history cannot be

hidden, no matter how they try to spin it. The late Ray Charles

and the living Stevie Wonder can see it, too—this is a new day,

and a new way. Black people ain’t here to play.

We’ve seen this rhetoric before. We know this playbook. But

in this new day, we are rejecting it with all our might. We will

not let history be erased. We will not let these false narratives

advance. And we will continue to stand strong, proud, and

unyielding in our rightful place on this land.

This is the truth we will live by. It is time for a new way, a

new philosophy, and a new future. We won’t back down, and we

won’t let this vile rhetoric take hold.

Let’s make sure we speak up and stand firm.

The Southern Truth

million acres of ocean; roll

back federal vehicle emission

standards for cars and trucks;

halt the development of

all offshore wind projects;

remove vital protections for

public lands across Alaska …

and, sadly, that was just the

beginning.

Making our communities

more susceptible to climatefueled

disasters, driving up

respiratory and heart disease,

increasing our energy bills,

and shipping our jobs overseas

is the opposite of “America

First.” And it shows Trump

breaking his promises – ON

DAY ONE! – to stand up for

working-class families.

As you read this, the Trump

administration is actively

working to boost Americans’

household energy costs by

promoting the expansion of

LNG (liquified natural gas)

exports. Those exports go to

nations that will pay far more

than the domestic market

rate for methane gas, driving

up prices here at home. And,

of course, more methane gas

means more fracking, more

pollution, and more disasterprone

transportation and

refinement of yet another

dirty fossil fuel. (Not to

mention the national

security implications of LNG

producers and exporters

selling this energy resource

to adversaries like China that

then can re-sell it to client

states and leverage their

status as an LNG supplier.)

The administration is

driving up energy costs and

threatening grid reliability

– in an age of increasing

extreme weather from climate

change – with its hostility

to the clean energy sources

that are cheaper and more

resilient than fossil fuels.

It is killing thousands

upon thousands of good

American jobs with actions

like his executive order

banning more development

of offshore wind energy. So

much for the GOP’s “all of the

above” energy approach. Wind



‘All They Will

Call You Will

Be Deportees’

By Robert C. Koehler

And now Trump consciousness

purports to claim – or reclaim

– control over America:

the land of white Christian

nationalists and no one else,

damnit!

But of course that level of

selfishness – mine, mine,

mine! – is only possible to

maintain with a huge helping

of fear alongside it: fear of the

enemy. Fear of “them.”

Thus Alexandra Villarreal,

writing in the Guardian about

Trump 2.0’s first day in office

(on Dr. Martin Luther King

Day), noted: “He immediately

involved the military, ordering

the armed forces to ‘seal’

the US’s borders ‘by repelling

forms of invasion including

unlawful mass migration.’

Be afraid. Be very afraid.

She goes on:

“This new system at the border

– replete with intense militarization

and explicit violations

of human rights – comes

straight from the imagination

of the ‘great replacement’ conspiracy

theory, which pushes

the racist idea that non-white

immigrants are ‘invading’

predominantly white nations

and ‘replacing’ white culture.’”

Governance is so much simpler

when you can conjure up

a wicked enemy for your followers

to fear, but the cost of

doing so can be monstrous –

and not simply for those dehumanized

as the enemy, who

are usually not in positions of

power and therefore easily

exploited. Those pulled into

us-vs.-them consciousness

have also seriously minimized

their own lives. For instance,

Andrea Mazzarino, writing

about Trump’s “divisive rhetoric

around immigrants, calling

them ‘vermin’ who are

‘poisoning the blood of this

country,’” stirred up an old

childhood truth in me: Takes

one to know one!

You can’t dehumanize others

without belittling your

own soul.

And this begins to get at

what makes the Trump 2.0

phenomenon so painful, at

least to that part of the nation

that sees beyond him. It’s

not just because “they” (i.e.,

MAGA) won. Hate rhetoric –

hate consciousness – is once

again expanding its claim on

who we are as a nation. But

it’s not like this is new. Most

of our history is inextricably

linked with the exploitation,

dehumanization and, often

enough, the murder – of . . .

uh, non-white people of one

sort of another.

When the MAGA-hat wearers

cry “Make America great

again,” they mean make

America deaf again, Make

America unaccountable

again. Turn Uncle Sam into

Jim Crow again.

The belief that love is for

white people only belittles

love as a transformative concept:

as the means to push

beyond what, or who, we

know, and continue evolving.

Consider this quote of Martin

Luther King (which I don’t believe

wound up being quoted

during the Trump inauguration):

“Faith is taking the first

step even when you don't see

the whole staircase.”

This is the faith we need to

honor right now, as the second

Trump era begins. We

find ourselves reaching for a

handhold as we step into the




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

Congratulations to

Dr. Germaine Smith Baugh!

We are proud to celebrate

Dr. Germaine Smith Baugh,

President and CEO of the

Urban League of Broward

County, on being recognized

as a 2025 Leadership Broward

Fun Lunch Honoree. This

prestigious event honors

Leadership Broward alumni

and members for their

outstanding contributions

to the community and the Dr. Germaine Smith Baugh

Leadership Broward Foundation.

Join us in recognizing Dr. Baugh and the other distinguished

honorees:

Kareen Boutros

LB Class XXIV, The Broward Workshop

Gail Bulfin LB Class XIII, The Greater Fort Lauderdale

Alliance

Gregg Goldstein LB Class XXXIV, EM Consulting Group

Paul Minoff LB Class XXXVIII, CATIC Commercial

Mary Lou Ruderman LB Class XXVIII, Ruderman &

Company CPA

Dr. Germaine Smith-Baugh â€“ SEO Class 2008, The Urban

League of Broward County

Jennifer Whittington LB Class XXXIII, Franklin Templeton

Investments

Congratulations to all the honorees for their dedication and

impact!


Impact of 2025 Changes to Retirement

Plans: A Look at 401(k), 403(b), IRAs,

and Other Retirement Plans

Submitted by Anthony Brunson, PA Certified Public

Accountants & Business Advisors

As we embark on a new

year, here’s a reminder of

the significant changes to

retirement plan contribution

limits and related

adjustments for the tax

year 2025 announced by the

Internal Revenue Service

(IRS). These updates affect

a wide array of retirement

accounts, including 401(k)

plans, 403(b) plans,

governmental 457 plans, the

federal government’s Thrift Savings Plan (TSP), Individual

Retirement Accounts (IRAs), and SIMPLE plans. The changes


Black-owned Small Businesses

More Optimistic About 2025

Economic Outlook

By Atlanta Tribune

(Source: Atlanta Tribune)

Portrait of a smiling businesswoman.

As we enter 2025, small business owners are finding a silver

lining amidst challenges. The latest JPMorgan Chase’s 2025

Business Leaders Outlook Survey reveals a wave of optimism

sweeping through the sector. More than 70% of small business

owners express confidence, feeling “optimistic” or “very

optimistic” about both their industry’s and their company’s


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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

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Dr. Ezra Tillman, Jr. Senior Pastor

WORSHIP SERVICES

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

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

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

"Winning the World for Jesus"

Harris Chapel Church, Inc.

Rev. Stanley Melek, M.Div

e-mail: harrischapelinc@gmail.com

2351 N.W. 26th Street

Oakland Park, Florida 33311

Church Telephone: (954) 731-0520

SERVICES

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

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

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

Living Waters Christian Fellowship

Meeting at Central Charter School Building #5

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

(954) 295-6894

SUNDAY SERVICE: 10 AM

Iwcf2019@gmail.com (Church)

lerrub13@gamil.com (Pastor)

Rev. Anthony & Virgina Burrell

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

Mount Hermon A.M.E. Church

Reverend Henry E. Green, III, Pastor

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

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

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

Email info@mthermonftl.com

SUNDAY CHURCH SERVICES

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

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

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

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

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

Meeting ID: 826 2716 8390 access code 55568988#

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

(716) 427-1407 Access Code 296233#

(712) 432-1500 Access Code 296233#

New Mount Olive Baptist Church

Dr. Marcus D. Davidson, Senior Pastor

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

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

CHURCH OFFICE HOURS

Monday- 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

2251 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 School ..........................8:30 A.M.

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

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

Celebrating 100 Years of Service!

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

CHURCH OFFICE HOURS

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

WORSHIP SERVICES

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

Have Your Church Announcement Placed

In Our Church Directory

New Creation Baptist Church In Christ

r.curry7me@gmail.com

Drive-Up Sunday Worship - 10 AM

4001 North Dixie Hwy.

Deerfield Beach, FL 33064

(954) 943-9116

newcreationbcic@gmail.com

Williams Memorial CME Church

644-646 N.W. 13th Terrace

Fort Lauderdale, Florida 33311

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

Reverend Errol Darville, Pastor

E-mail: erroldarville@gmail.com

WORSHIP SERVICES and BIBLE STUDY

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

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

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

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

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

"Celebrating over 100 years of SERVICES"

St. Ruth Missionsary Baptist Church

145 NW 5th Avenue

Dania Beach, FL 33004

(954) 922-2529

WORSHIP SERVICES

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

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

Website: www.struthmbc.org

"Celebrating 115 Years of Service"

Victory Baptist Church Independent

Pastor Keith Cunningham

2241 Davie Blvd., Fort Lauderdale, FL 33312

Church: (954) 284-9413

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

“Celebrating over 85 Years of FAITH and FAVOR!

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

Shaw Temple A.M.E. Zion Church

Rev. Dr. William Calvin Haralson, Pastor

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

Church: (954) 647-8254

Email: AMEZ522@Yahoo.com

SERVICES

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

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

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

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

Jesus Christ Ministry Of Faith, Inc.

Jesus Loves You

Join Us Sundays

at 9 AM

477 NW 27 Avenue


JCMOFINC@gmail.com

Mrs. Avis Boyd-Gaines,

Owner, Funeral Director

& Embalmer

Mr. Bon M. Boyd,

Chief Executive Officer

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!

Mrs. Alexis Gaines-Sullivan,

Funeral Director,

Insurance Agent

& Preneed Counselor

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) The time period between Malachi and Matthew is called the

intertestamental period or the silent years. How long was the

intertestamental period?

2) Can you name a Bible figure who struggled with depression?

3)What Bible figure was sold in slavery?

4) In the Bible when was the first surgery performed?

5) Which King in the Bible consulted a witch?

6) Give some examples of why the number 40 is so important

in the Bible?

7) According to the Bible how long is our life’s time span?

*** Biblical Fact*** When David spared King Saul’s life Saul

was in the process of “relieving” himself in a cave.

Answers – 1) 400 years; 2) Elijah-1st Kings 19:4, Jeremiah-20:18;

3) Joseph- Genesis 37:26-28; 4) God-Genesis 2:21;

5) Saul- 1st Samuel 28:7; 6) Several kings ruled for 40 years,

the flood lasted for 40 days, Jesus fasted for 40 days in the desert;

7) 70-80 years, Psalm 90:10

T&T – A Sea of

Corruption Asserts

Pastor Dottin

(Source: cynarines)

Seventh-Day Adventist preacher, Clive Dottin, asserts that

the nation’s officials are shielding corrupt multimillion-dollar

businesspeople, gang leaders, and killers.

Dottin, age 75, stated that even in the event of a State of

Emergency (SoE), crime will only be affected if white-collar

criminals are also pursued during the T&T Scrap Iron Dealers’

Association (TTSIDA) Crime Talks and Hamper Drive held on

January 22, 2025, at the Marabella Basketball Court adjacent

to the former train line.

Dottin urges the attention of major political leaders to

root out corrupt officials within the system’s upper hierarchy,

stating, “We cannot have parliamentarians fraternizing with

gang leaders, crooks, and demons. That has to stop. I call upon

the political leaders of the two major political parties in the

country. You cannot have people in your ranks who engage in

activity that affirms gangs and drug dealing. That is wrong.”

He remarked, “You cannot fight crime and protect assassins.

You cannot fight crime and take money at election time for

campaign promotions … And that is what is hurting us.”

According to the pastor, when the topic of crime comes up,

people often exclusively talk about “poor fellas,” or blue-collar

criminals.

But to reduce crime, he stated, “We must have a vision one

day to be able to arrest the white-collar criminals. Those who

bringing in the cocaine are not the poor boys on the train line

bringing in the cocaine and those who bringing in the guns.”

He claimed to have interviewed two state security experts

about white-collar criminals, those who smuggle in cocaine and

AK-15s—and they informed him they were untouchable.

Dottin said the army and coast guard were infected with the

corruption virus. “So we are surrounded by a sea of corruption,

and I tell people anytime you see a corrupt police or soldier or

coastguard man, you will discover that behind him is a lawyer,

behind him is a businessman, and sometimes a politician.”

In response to state prosecutor Randall Hector’s murder

on December 31, 2024, he stated, “I am saying this without

any fear of contradiction, the Government did not provide any

security for that guy and he is a guy prosecuting gang leaders.”

Due to their membership in the Caribbean Religious Liberty

Association, Dottin claimed to have known Hector for ten years.


Get Ready: Greek Unity Day is here! Join us at Mount Hermon

AME Church, 401 N.W. 7th Terr., Fort Lauderdale, FL 33311

on Sunday, Feb. 16 at 9 a.m., a.m. for our Annual Greek Unity

Day Celebration.

This event honors the unity and contributions of Greek-Letter

Organizations within our community. All are welcome to

participate in this special service. We look forward to seeing

you there!


Nancy Leftenant-Colon, Trailblazing Army

Nurse and Air Force Veteran, Dies at 104

Known for quietly breaking barriers during her remarkable military career,

Leftenant-Colon enjoyed a legacy of resilience, excellence, and service.

By Stacy M. Brown,NNPA Newswire Senior National Correspondent@StacyBrownMedia

Nancy Leftenant-Colon, the first

Black woman to join the U.S. Army

Nurse Corps after the military was

desegregated in the 1940s, has died at

the age of 104. She passed away earlier

this month at a nursing home in New

York. Known for quietly breaking

barriers during her remarkable military

career, Leftenant-Colon enjoyed a legacy

of resilience, excellence, and service.

Born on September 29, 1920, in

Goose Creek, South Carolina, to James

and Eunice Leftenant, she graduated

from Amityville High School in New

York in 1939. Despite facing racial

discrimination, Leftenant-Colon

pursued her passion for nursing,

graduating from Lincoln School of

Nursing in 1941. According to her

biography posted on Tuskegeeairmen.

org, when she initially sought to join

the Armed Forces, she was denied due

to her race. Undeterred, she persisted

and was accepted as a reservist into the

Army Nurse Corps in January 1945,

becoming a Second Lieutenant and

serving at Fort Devens, Massachusetts,

treating wounded soldiers from World

War II.

In 1948, after President Harry

Truman issued Executive Order 9981

abolishing segregation in the military,

Leftenant-Colon became the first Black woman integrated into the Regular Army Nurse

Corps. Her career continued to flourish as she transitioned to the newly established U.S. Air

Force, where she supported missions during the Korean and Vietnam Wars, serving in various

locations, including Germany, Japan, Alaska, and Vietnam. As a Flight Nurse with the 6481st

Medical Air Evacuation Group, she evacuated wounded soldiers from active war zones and was

credited with saving countless lives.

Her groundbreaking service extended beyond the battlefield. In 1989, she became the first

woman elected as National President of the Tuskegee Airmen, Inc., where she held multiple

leadership roles. Honored with numerous accolades, Leftenant-Colon received honorary

doctorates from Tuskegee University and Mount Saint Vincent College and was inducted into

the Long Island Air and Space Hall of Fame.

After retiring as Chief Nurse at McGuire Air Force Base in 1965, Leftenant-Colon continued

to serve her community as a school nurse at her alma mater, Amityville High School, until 1984.

In 2018, the school honored her with a new media center named in her memory.

“She was just an awesome person,” her nephew Chris Leftenant told The Associated Press.

“She never created waves when she was doing all this first this, first that. She never made a big

thing of it. It was just happening.”

Michigan Chronicle Sales Leader

Leonard Corbin Dies at Age 64

By Atlanta Tribune

(Source: Atlanta Tribune)

Leonard Corbin was a man of a thousand stories, but few

words. It didn’t matter whether it was about iconic Detroit high

school athletes from half a century ago, civil rights protests

in the 1980s, or obscure music facts from one-hit wonders, he

knew at least a little bit about a lot of things and could always

add to a conversation with the wisdom and insights he had

gained throughout his life.

His life experiences had taken him on countless journeys.

Growing up in Detroit in the 1960s and 1970s, attending the

University of Michigan and Michigan State University in

the 1970s and 1980s, his leisurely travels across the globe,

and working as a sales and marketing professional, Corbin –

affectionately known as “LC” – saw so much in his 64 years of

life.

Unfortunately, he also saw firsthand what it was like

to fight cancer, too. LC took his final breath last week after

succumbing to complications after a months-long battle with

cancer. He was 64 years old.

Despite the debilitating nature of his medical condition,

LC remained optimistic through it all. He would show up

to the Michigan Chronicle’s office after blood transfusions,

chemotherapy, and doctor’s appointments, where he would

lead the Real Times Media sales team in Detroit. For years,

LC’s job with the Michigan Chronicle was helping businesses

in Southeast Michigan connect with our readers in unique,

authentic ways. He helped them tell stories in ways that he

knew would resonate with Black people, because for years he

had been doing the same personally and professionally, and

he knew how to add value – whether it was to a conversation

amongst friends or to a company looking to market a product

or service.

He graduated from the University of Michigan in 1985

with a degree in Marketing Communications before attending

Michigan State University’s College of Law. But he really laid

down roots as a kid in Detroit. Small in stature, but big in

heart, LC ran track in high school at the University of Detroit

Jesuit High School and Academy.

LC shared a memory of his high school days when

Deeply Rooted

Minnesota Attorney General

Keith Ellison, LC’s childhood

neighbor, stopped by

Michigan Chronicle’s office

for an interview in 2024.

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

James C. Boyd

Funeral Home Services

Emmitt Futcher – 61

Bernetta

James - 81

Funeral

Service

was held

January 25th

at James C.

Boyd’s

Memorial

Chapel with Pastor Amos

Benefield officiating.

James Leonard

Walker - 65

Funeral

Service

was held

January 25th at

Community

Church of God

with Rev.

Desmond Cook

officiating.

“This cat was running in

tennis shoes on a dirt track

and would dust anybody who

lined up next to him,” Ellison

said of Corbin, as the two

shared a laugh and a hug.

Shortly after his track

and field days ended in high

school, LC was a student at

the University of Michigan,

where he turned his passion

to fighting for Black people’s

rights. He quickly became

engulfed in student life

as a member of the Black

Student Union at U-M. He

helped organize seminars

at the university about the

liberation of South Africa,

the state of Black students

and Black people around the

country, and celebrations of

triumph for things like the

Black Action Movement’s

1970 protest on campus.

Later in life, LC was twice

married, and he had one

daughter, Camryn, whom he

affectionately called his “Baby

Girl.” Every chance he got, he

would proudly talk about her

and her accomplishments with

an ear-to-ear smile. He talked



JANUARY 30 - FEBRURAY 5, 2025 • PAGE 9

McWhite’s Funeral

Home Services

Ishmael W.

Butler

Funeral

Service

was held

January 25th

at McWhite’s

Funeral Home

Chapel.

Janet Maude

Campbell

Funeral

Service

was held

January 25th

at McWhite’s

Funeral Home

Chapel.

Daniel and John Daley Funeral

service was held January

25th at McWhite’s Funeral

Home Chapel.

Tavaris Leon

Johnson

Funeral

Service

was held

January 25th

at McWhite’s

Funeral Home

Chapel.

Janie Nettie

Thompson

Funeral

Service

was held

January

25th at

McWhite’s

Funeral

Home.

Sarah

Walltower

Funeral

Service

was held

January 25th

at New Hope

Missionary

Church.

Roy Mizell & Kurtz

Funeral Home Services

Leroy Knight

III – 70

Funeral

Service

was held

January 25th

at Roy Mizell

& Kurtz Funeral

Home with LeArtis Kelly

officiating.

I

Will

give

thanks

to the

Lord

because

of his

righteousness

and will

sing praise

to the

name

of the

Lord

Most

High.

Psalm 7:17


Deeply Rooted


Trump’s DEI Ban Removes Black

History About Tuskegee Airmen

from Air Force Training

Atlanta Voice publisher Janis L. Ware Honored

with 2025 Lifetime Achievement Award

By Staff Report

(Source: BlackNews.com)

NATIONWIDE -- The U.S. Air Force has removed lessons on the Tuskegee Airmen

and Women Airforce Service Pilots (WASPs) from its training programs following

President Donald Trump’s order to end diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) initiatives

within the U.S. government.

The decision, confirmed by the Air Force, eliminates references to the Tuskegee

Airmen — Black pilots, mechanics, and support staff who served during World War

II — from basic training. The WASPs, female pilots who contributed to the war effort,

have also been removed from the lessons.

The Tuskegee Airmen, who trained at Moton Field in Alabama, flew more than 15,000

combat sorties and played a key role in desegregating the armed forces after President

Harry Truman’s 1948 Executive Order. Their accomplishments included destroying

over 100 German aircraft, which were significant to U.S. military history.

Tuskegee Airmen, Inc. expressed strong opposition to the removal, emphasizing that

the soldiers are “an essential part of American history and carried significant weight.”

The group urged President Trump and the Secretary of Defense to reverse the decision.

“We believe the content of these courses does not promote one category of service

member or citizen over another,” the group said in a statement, according to USA Today.

“They are simply a part of American military history that all service members should be

made aware of.”

“As a nonprofit organization, we are required to remain apolitical. The opinions we

express today reflect our values as a military heritage organization, committed to telling

a full and accurate history of all service members of World War II, regardless of race,

gender or national origin.”

CITY OF LAUDERHILL

MLK R&B CELEBRATION

SAT. FEBRUARY 8, 2025

VIP RECEPTION 6:30 PM | SHOW STARTS 7:30 PM

Performances by

JEFFREY OSBORNE

LENNY WILLIAMS

SURFACE

Featuring

THE OLD SKOOL GANG

PRESALE TICKETS ON SALE NOW!

For more information, please contact 954-730-3000 or visit lauderhill-fl.gov.

Janis L. Ware, the visionary Publisher of The Atlanta Voice, has been named the recipient

of the prestigious 2025 Lifetime Achievement Award from the National Newspaper Publishers

Association (NNPA). This distinguished honor recognizes her extraordinary leadership in

journalism and her steadfast commitment to uplifting the voices of the African American

community.

A native of Atlanta, Janis has dedicated over four decades of her life to community development,

with a special focus on affordable housing. Her work has transformed neighborhoods, particularly

in the Mechanicsville area of Atlanta, where she has led the development of over 1,800 affordable

housing units. As one of the first African American women to graduate from the University of

Georgia’s Terry College of Business, Janis broke barriers. She became a powerful role model for

future generations of leaders in both business and civic engagement.

In 1991, following her father’s passing, Janis took over as Publisher of The Atlanta Voice,

a newspaper that has served the Atlanta community since 1966. Under her guidance, the

publication underwent a successful digital transformation, expanding its reach and establishing

itself as a multimedia platform that continues to provide critical news, culture, and community

stories to a diverse audience. Her leadership has made The Atlanta Voice an indispensable

resource for the African American community.

Beyond her work at The Atlanta Voice, Janis serves as the Executive Director of SUMMECH

Development Corporation, a position she’s held since 1991. Through SUMMECH, she has been

instrumental in urban revitalization and affordable housing efforts, which have improved the

lives of countless families. She is regarded as one of Atlanta’s foremost pioneers in the affordable

housing sector, dedicated to making homeownership a reality for many.

Through her involvement with organizations such as House ATL, the National Newspaper

Publishers Association, and the Atlanta Housing Authority, she has shaped policies that promote

growth and opportunity for underserved communities.

Keisha Lance Bottoms Considers Entering

Race To Become Georgia’s Next Governor

By A.R. Shaw, Executive

Editor

(Source: Atlanta Daily World)

Former Atlanta Mayor

Keisha Lance Bottoms

is considering a possible

bid to become Georgia’s

next Governor. Bottoms, a

graduate of Douglas High

School, FAMU, and Georgia

State University, became a

national figure in 2017 after

she won the mayoral race in

Atlanta.

When recently asked if

she would consider a return

to politics, Bottoms told WSB-

TV, “Well, there will be a

governor’s race on the ballot.”

Gov. Brian Kemp will step

down in 2026 and a frontrunner

has yet to emerge in

what could be a wide-open

race. Stacey Abrams could

also enter the race after two

attempts at defeating Kemp

came up short.

Bottoms recently served in

the Biden Administration as

the principal national advisory

committee on international

trade. The council advised

the president on government

policies and programs

that impact the U.S. trade

performance. Additionally,

The Slavery Remem-brance Program, a

cornerstone of the Legacy of Slavery Initiative,

was implemented to address Harvard’s

extensive entan-glements with slavery.

Harvard says the latest developments would

not affect ongoing research and activities. The

2022 report by the university’s Presidential

Initiative on Harvard & the Legacy of

Slavery detailed how Harvard enslaved

over 70 individuals, benefited financially

from slavery-related industries, and upheld

racial hierarchies through “race science” and

eugenics.

Richard J. Cellini, the program’s director,

was also dismissed after he reportedly

challenged the university’s administration for

allegedly interfering with the research’s scope.

Cellini had accused Sara Bleich, the initiative’s

overseer, of attempting to suppress findings

that uncovered descendants tied to Harvard’s

slavery legacy. According to reports, Cellini

gave the administration an ultimatum: either

allow the program to conduct its research

without obstruction or fire him. Days later, his

termination followed.

The decision has drawn sharp criticism

from within and beyond the university. Staff

told The Harvard Crimson they had no prior

indication that their roles were at risk. One

the council promoted export

expansion and was part of a

forum to discuss trade-related

issues within the business,

industrial, agricultural, labor,

and government sectors.

Prior to her role at the

White House, Bottoms

decided against running for

a second term as Atlanta’s

mayor. During her first and

only term, Bottoms faced

critical issues such as the

Covid-19 pandemic and

uprisings following George

Floyd’s murder.

Bottoms and Kemp clashed

over how to lead during

the pandemic and several

incidents of police brutality

and violence occurred during

protests.

Instead of seeking a

second term, Bottoms threw

her support behind Andre

Dickens who won the election.

Earlier this week,

Bottoms made national news

after Donald Trump issued

a slew of executive orders on

his first day and announced

White House positions that

have been eliminated. Trump

used his social media platform

to share that Bottoms had

been fired, using his catch

phrase from “The Apprentice”

Keisha Lance Bottoms

stating, “You’re fired!”

However, Bottoms

revealed that Trump was

using his social media platform

to spread misinformation.

Bottoms shared that she had

resigned from her position

weeks before Trump took

office.

“A day late and a dollar

short,” Bottoms wrote on

social media. “My resignation

from the President’s Export

Council was submitted

January 4, effective

yesterday.”

Harvard Under Fire from Front Page

former employee described the layoffs as

devastating. “We were conducting vital work,

uncovering Harvard’s ties to slavery and its

legacies. Cutting this program sends a clear

and troubling signal about where priorities

lie,” the employee told the newspaper.

Harvard & the Legacy of Slavery Advisory

Council member Henry Louis Gates Jr.

publicly praised Cellini’s contributions,

stating in a university press release, “Richard

Cellini’s superb efforts launched us on our way

on this historically important mission. We are

indebted to Richard for his early guidance and

his ambitious leadership.”

Harvard announced the program’s next

phase will proceed under the leadership

of American Ancestors, a genealogical

organization. However, critics argue the abrupt

staff dismissals undermine the credibility

of the university’s stated commitment to

reckoning with its history. “Institutions like

Harvard have the resources to set an example

for accountability,” said one academic familiar

with the initiative. “But actions like these

raise serious doubts.”

The controversy follows Harvard’s 2022




JANAURY 30 - FEBRUARY 5, 2025 • PAGE 11

BCPS Honors Outstanding Educators and Employees at 2025 Caliber Awards

Jerrelle Robinson-Owens

From Broward Schools

Broward County Public

Schools (BCPS) will honor

outstanding educators and

employees at the 2025 Caliber

Awards Ceremony. The event

recognizes the nominees,

Lillie deCastro

semi-finalists and finalists for

Teacher of the Year, Principal

of the Year, Assistant

Principal of the Year and

School-Related Employee of

the Year for their exemplary

service and dedication to

students and schools. The

ceremony takes place on

Friday, February 7, 2025,

at 6 p.m., at the Lauderhill

Performing Arts Center.

North Fort Lauderdale native named

Warfighter of the Week serving aboard

USS John C. Stennis

(U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist Second

Class Mikayla Alley)

Submitted by Mr. Rick Burke,

Navy Office of Community Outreach

NEWPORT NEWS, Va. -- Quartermaster 2nd Class Deshaud

Porter, right, a native of North Lauderdale, Florida, assigned

to the Nmitz-class aircraft carrier USS John C. Stennis (CVN

74), is awarded warfighter of the week by Capt. J. Patrick

Thompson, the commanding officer of Stennis, aboard the ship,

Jan. 16, 2025. John C. Stennis is in Newport News Shipbuilding

conducting Refueling and Complex Overhaul to prepare the

ship for the second half of its 50-year service life.

Richard D. Larmarre

“The Caliber Awards

celebrate the visionary

leaders, dedicated teachers

and innovative support staff

who consistently go above

and beyond,” said BCPS

Superintendent Dr. Howard

Hepburn. “These individuals

inspire students, foster a love

of learning and make a lasting

impact on our community.”

Sheneka Blue

Matthew Feiler, West

Broward High School

Matthew Feiler is a

computer science teacher at


thewestsidegazette.com1

Tuskegee Airmen National Historic Site:

They Cannot Be Erased

By Audrey Peterman

It felt like a dagger to

my heart when I read the

headline stating that the

US Air Force was removing

the Tuskegee Airmen from

training videos, to comply

with the new President’s

orders. The idea that anyone

could be so unpatriotic and so

petty boggled my mind. The

directive against DEI also

prohibited showing videos

of the women aviators that

helped win WWII.

I didn’t remain stumped for

long. My mind immediately

flew to the Tuskegee Airmen

National Historic Site where

the aviators trained, which

includes the airfield, original

artifacts such as the logbook

in which my husband Frank

found the name he was

looking for – a Major in the

Federal Grants Freeze Exposes

Disproportionate Impact on Red

States, Showing Trump’s Willingness to

Sacrifice His Own Supporters

NNPA NEWSWIRE — Experts say the freeze will likely hit red states the hardest, as they

are more dependent on federal funding. “Higher-income states produce the majority of

the tax dollars that go into the federal government’s pocket,” Kathy Fallon, a human

services practice area director at Public Consulting Group

By Stacy M. Brown, NNPA Newswire Senior National Correspondent@StacyBrownMedia

The White House’s decision to pause federal grants and loans has sent shockwaves across

Washington, D.C., and beyond, exposing vulnerabilities in Republican-leaning states that

heavily depend on federal funding. In a memo issued Monday, acting Office of Management

and Budget director Matthew J. Vaeth instructed federal agencies to halt all activities related

to federal financial assistance, leaving questions about the legality and long-term impact of the

directive. Federal funding plays a significant role in Washington, D.C., where $6.3 billion was

allocated in fiscal year 2021 to support Medicaid, Temporary Assistance for Needy Families

(TANF), public schools, and infrastructure. These funds accounted for 32.2% of the district’s

revenue. The freeze now threatens programs critical to D.C. residents, especially the city’s most

vulnerable populations.

However, the impact of this freeze could hit Republican states hardest. According to data

from MoneyGeek, seven of the 10 states most dependent on federal funding are Republicanleaning,

with these states receiving an average of $1.24 for every dollar contributed. In contrast,

Democratic-leaning blue states received $1.14 per dollar paid in federal taxes. New Mexico, a

state that leans blue, saw the highest return on federal spending at $3.42 per dollar contributed,

while Delaware, another blue state, had the lowest return at $0.46. Despite these outliers,

higher-income, blue states generally contribute more to federal coffers than they receive, due to

higher tax revenues and lower reliance on federal assistance.

Experts say the freeze will likely hit red states the hardest, as they are more dependent on

federal funding. “Higher-income states produce the majority of the tax dollars that go into the

federal government’s pocket,” Kathy Fallon, a human services practice area director at Public

Consulting Group, told MoneyGeek in October. “Because of the higher income, states and their

residents need less support and use fewer federal dollars.” Tax code changes in recent years

have further increased the financial burden on wealthier blue states. “Before, people who paid

large state income taxes would deduct those from their federal Continue reading online at:

tax payments,” Fallon explained. “Now, state tax deductions are thewestsidegazette.com

Matthew Feiler

Congratulations to the

following 2025 Caliber

Awards finalists:

Teacher of the Year Finalists

These talented Teacher of

the Year finalists, with more

than 100 years of combined

experience in BCPS, exemplify

the highest standards of

teaching excellence.

Lillie deCastro, William T.

McFatter Technical College

Air Force who became his first

employer, and a reconstructed

flight simulator they used to

train. We can almost relive

their experiences, hear from

them in their own words, and

be inspired by the courage

they showed as we address

today’s challenges.

The National Park

System which protects this

National Historic Site,

similarly protects the places

that were instrumental in

the development of women

aviators who helped win

World War 11, including the

Curtiss-Wright Aeronautical

Building in Chicago from

which aviator Willa Brown

graduated as the first

and High School

Lillie deCastro is the magnet

coordinator at William T.

McFatter Technical College

and High School, where she

has dedicated the past 16 of

her 30 years in education.

She finds inspiration in the

limitless potential she sees in

her students, watching them

discover the possibilities

within themselves.

African American woman to

earn her pilot’s license; the

birthplace of Amelia Earhart

and Pearson Field at Fort

Vancouver National Historic

Site, where Lea Hing became

the first Chinese-American

woman to earn her pilot’s

license.

This is the value of the

National Park System.

Administrations come

and go, but once a place of

unique “natural, cultural

or historical” significance

goes through the intense

vetting process required for

inclusion in the System, it

can be considered relatively

safe. (The current President

removed land from the

Vera Perkovic

“Their curiosity, resilience

and ambition inspire me daily.

It is this sense of purpose

that makes teaching not just

a career but a calling,” said

deCastro.

System in his first term, the

only leader we’ve known to do

so.)

Imagine looking out

at Moton Field where the

Tuskegee Airmen learned

to fly. The information you

absorb at the park allows you

to go back in time and put

yourself in their shoes.

The irony of the US

Air Force playing enforcer

AGAINST the Tuskegee

Airmen in the year 2025 can

be gleaned from knowing that

it was the Army Air Corps

that conducted the tests in

1941 that led to the first

African American Aviators



YOU AND A GUEST ARE INVITED

TO A SPECIAL ADVANCE SCREENING OF

WEDNESDAY, FEBRUARY 5 • 7:00 PM • AMC AVENTURA

For your chance to win a complimentary admit-two pass

to the advance screening, email us at

ttaylor@thewestsidegazette.com or wgaccts@thewestsidegazette.com

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

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

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

IN THEATERS FEBRUARY 7

www.LoveHurtsMovie.com

LoveHurtsMovie

@LoveHurtsMovie

@LoveHurtsMovie

#LoveHurtsMovie

87213_LoveHurts_WestsideGazette_6.5x10.75.indd 1

1/15/25 11:05 AM


Deeply Rooted


Carver Ranches: Historic, Beloved and Honored

By Nunnie Robinson

Part III

“The history of Carver Ranches is a silent

voice that speaks of the hardship, hope,

challenge and unity from a people of courage

and faith. They dared to settle a new and

unknown land, thereby earning the title of “

Pioneers.” Cynthia Strachan-Saunders from

her book, Promises from the Palmetto Bush

After the Carver Ranches divas, featuring

Stephanie Bevel, Gussie Clark, Audrey

Warren and Cynthia Strachan-Saunders

answered my question about their passion for

Carver Ranches, the area’s inception became

the focal point. Three white men - H.E. Foster,

Donald F. Anderson and Carl Hoffman -

businessmen, one of whom was an attorney,

formed a corporation, purchased, developed,

and sold the land specifically to Blacks, many

of Bahamian descent who settled first in this

300 acre, undeveloped section of western

Broward replete with Palmetto bushes and

unimaginable critters like snakes, raccoons,

possums, gophers, rabbits and polecats among

others. It is believed that many unscrupulous

white men through pillory or price gouging,

or as Mr. Foster explained to Mr. and Mrs.

Strachan: Whites would buy up a lot of property

and charge astronomical prices for rent, thus

taking full advantage of vulnerable tenants

because they could. Mr. Foster and the other

gentlemen wanted to change that pervasive

practice.

Grenada – To Launch Citizenship

by Invitation Program

By nycaribnews

As several European

nations start to tighten their

so-called golden visa policies,

one Caribbean nation is

adopting a different strategy

and launching the first official

“citizenship by invitation”

program in history.

Grenada intends to recruit

“hand-picked investors” to

introduce entrepreneurial

innovation to the nation

when the program begins.

Because most citizenship

by investment schemes are

exclusive by nature, interested

parties must usually pay

hundreds of thousands of

dollars, if not more, to get

citizenship or accelerated

residency. Grenada’s latest

offering, however, is even

more impressive.

The press release

introducing the program

states that “the concept of

‘citizenship by invitation’ is

sure to revolutionize the way

that investment is channeled

into communities.” Adding,

“It will empower governments

such as Grenada to tailor

their citizenship programs

and attract hand-picked

investors with the talent,

experience, and capital to

make an impact.”

It coincides with the end

of well-liked golden visa

schemes in nations like

Portugal and Spain. Grenada

is intensifying its efforts

as those nations take steps

to restrict the number of

affluent investors who may

get residence and eventually

citizenship.

Forbes Global Talent

and Arton Capital, a global

citizenship financial advisory

services company that created

the initiative in collaboration

with the Grenada

government, are nominating

and screening investors “who

will bring the most value to

the Caribbean Island.” There

are several ways for investors

to become citizens after being

formally invited: They may

use the pre-existing company

or real estate investment

schemes, or they could donate

something non-refundable to

the sovereign.

According to Armand



The Strachans were one of the first families

to purchase a home in Carver Ranches at a cost

of $750, $75 down and & $50 a month. It might

seem reasonable but in the early 40s that was

a daunting proposition. Then other families

followed such as Walter and Easter Robinson,

and Ethelyn Bowles, Cynthia’s grandmother.

In just my initial reading of Promises from

the Palmetto Bush, certain principles became

crystal clear: Carver Ranches epitomized the

village concept/community where people and

families assisted each other with projects

such as childcare, installing inside toilets,

encouraging educational pursuits, and wives/

mothers using their God-given gifts to help

each other. The story was told of a lady who

needed a roof for her house. Once she secured

the supplies, the men joined forces and put

a new roof on in short order. And while they

were working together, you best believe she

and friends were preparing food for them to

simply express their gratitude. I’m certain

that scenario repeated itself many times over.

Forced or not, it was that spirit of community

that propelled Carver Ranches’ growth and

maturation as a thriving entity.

Cynthia explained that the original office

building on Pembroke Road used to transact

business such as selecting a lot or making

payments is still there, though it has been

renovated. In determining the area’s rapid

growth and development, all agreed that it was


A MESSAGE FROM THE PUBLISHER from the Front Page

education were central to her strategy, ensuring residents are informed and included in

planning efforts.

Jason Davis drew on his direct experience with Fort Lauderdale’s recent infrastructure

challenges, stressing the importance of addressing storm surge and water movement during

extreme weather events. He called for a detailed review of stormwater, water, and wastewater

programs, prioritizing infrastructure projects despite their cost and potential disruptions.

Davis advocated for proactive planning, execution, and evaluation to ensure long-term

resiliency, while also highlighting the importance of creative budgeting to address climate

and infrastructure needs.

2. Ensuring Fairness, Transparency, and Inclusivity in Decision-Making

Williams proposed participatory decision-making processes, including surveys, town halls,

and focus groups, to give residents and employees a voice in city policies. She recommended

equity audits to evaluate the impact of decisions on different demographic groups and

committed to maintaining transparency by publishing clear, accessible data reports and

dashboards.

Davis emphasized trust-building through transparency and accountability. Drawing on

his past experiences working with unethical leadership, Davis committed to being an “open

book” and encouraged third-party audits to uphold fairness. He highlighted the value of

diverse opinions and collaboration, stating that leadership should focus on serving citizens

and fostering a team-oriented culture.

3. Increasing Opportunities for Black- and Minority-Owned Businesses

Williams shared her extensive background in promoting economic opportunities for

underserved communities, outlining a range of strategies. She proposed simplifying the

procurement process, offering technical assistance and workshops, and partnering with

financial institutions to provide low-interest loans and grants. Williams also suggested

creating networking events and promoting the successes of Black- and minority-owned

businesses through city platforms to inspire growth and encourage local support.

Davis acknowledged the need for new approaches, emphasizing the importance of

listening to Black- and minority-owned businesses to understand the specific roadblocks they

face. He proposed exploring programs to connect these businesses with civic leaders and

creating mentorship opportunities. Davis also expressed interest in collaborating with the

Sheriff’s Office to develop pathways for formerly incarcerated individuals to reintegrate into

the workforce, contributing to economic equity and growth.

4. Balancing Growth with Preserving Quality of Life

Williams advocated for smart growth strategies, emphasizing sustainable development,

mixed-use zoning, and walkable neighborhoods. She proposed partnering with developers to

create affordable housing options, protect green spaces, and enhance recreational areas. Community involvement was a key aspect of her plan, ensuring residents’ voices are heard in planning

efforts while monitoring the impact of growth to adjust policies as needed.

Davis stressed the importance of managing density through a proactive, balanced approach. He described using Comprehensive Plans (COMP) to dictate growth while negotiating with

developers for community improvements like parks, green spaces, and infrastructure upgrades. By working with developers to lower density and improve local amenities, Davis believes

growth can benefit residents without sacrificing quality of life.

Publisher’s Perspective

The Westside Gazette remains committed to amplifying the voices of Fort Lauderdale’s Black community and holding public officials accountable. The responses from Rickelle Williams

and Jason Davis highlight their unique perspectives and strategies for tackling Fort Lauderdale’s challenges while fostering inclusivity and equity.

Rickelle Williams has emerged as front-runner for Fort Lauderdale City Manager Position

As the selection process for Fort Lauderdale’s next City Manager nears its conclusion, Rickelle Williams has emerged as the leading candidate, impressing decision-makers throughout the

rigorous interview process. Williams, who has demonstrated exceptional expertise and vision, secured unanimous approval from all seven panelists.

Jason Davis, another highly qualified finalist, performed strongly with four out of seven approvals, showcasing his deep understanding of Fort Lauderdale’s challenges and opportunities.

However, Williams’ consistent performance and comprehensive approach have positioned her at the forefront of the race.

If the process continues its current trajectory, Fort Lauderdale is poised to make history by appointing Rickelle Williams as its first Black female City Manager. Her leadership promises

to bring a fresh perspective and a strong commitment to equity, inclusivity, and sustainable growth for all communities in the city.

The process has not come without objections but, with a 3-2 vote the process prevailed to allow the three candidates to come forward and out of the three-one dropped out (Matthew von der

Hayden) now the two candidates are waiting for the outcome.

We thanked all candidates for their thoughtful participation and remember that there is so much more to this city than meets the eye. The next City Manager must understand and address

the diverse needs of our community while building a stronger and more inclusive Fort Lauderdale.

The Westside Gazette will continue to monitor this historic

development and provide updates as they unfold.

FEB 7 | 7PM

SCAN

FOR

TICKETS



Trump Administration Targets Black Pilots, Weaponizing Lies About Diversity

In a stunning display of bigotry disguised

as governance, Trump signed a Presidential

Memorandum ordering the Federal Aviation

Administration (FAA) to eliminate hiring

policies designed to promote diversity, equity,

and inclusion (DEI).

By Stacy M. Brown



@StacyBrownMedia

Donald Trump and his

hate-filled administration

have launched another racist

attack, this time taking aim

at Black pilots and diversity

efforts in the aviation

industry. In a stunning

display of bigotry disguised

as governance, Trump signed

a Presidential Memorandum

ordering the Federal

Aviation Administration

(FAA) to eliminate hiring

policies designed to promote

diversity, equity, and

inclusion (DEI). The memo

outrageously claims that DEI

programs jeopardize safety

and efficiency—despite zero

evidence to back such a claim.

Trump’s memorandum,

dripping with thinly veiled

racism, demands the FAA

“return to merit-based

hiring” and review the past

performance of all employees

in critical safety positions.

The administration accuses

Parmesan. Each bite confirmed

what sets Crisppi’s apart. The wings

were seasoned to perfection, crispy

on the outside yet juicy within, with

sauces that complemented rather

than overpowered the seasoning.

The waffles, served soft, fluffy,

and flavorful, added a playful yet

refined touch to the meal.

What impressed me most

was the thoughtful presentation.

Brittany showed us Crisppi’s

premium packaging, which not

only preserved the food’s freshness

but also made a bold statement.

The foil-lined, beautifully branded

boxes felt like unwrapping a luxury

item, reflecting her commitment

to delivering excellence in every

aspect of the customer experience.

A Community-Centered Vision

As someone deeply connected

to this community, I am incredibly

excited about Crisppi’s Chicken.

In a neighborhood brimming with

restaurants, Crisppi’s stands out

as the first that truly prioritizes

the community. Brittany

Tolliferreo has brought something

extraordinary to the table—a fastfood

concept that goes beyond

profits to genuinely care about the

people it serves.

In many communities, food is

more than sustenance; it’s a way

of showing love. Yet so many restaurants

neglect this by providing less-than-quality

food, cutting corners with cheap ingredients,

and showing little regard for the people who

keep their doors open. Crisppi’s changes that

narrative. With every bite, you can taste the

love and effort that Brittany puts into her

food. She is treating our community with

the care and respect we deserve, reminding

us of the value of shared meals and genuine

hospitality.

the Biden-era DEI policies of

“violating the public trust”

by allegedly prioritizing

individuals with disabilities

and other marginalized

groups overqualified

candidates. Industry experts

have blasted the memo as

baseless and incendiary,

calling it an attack on years

of progress in promoting

fairness and representation

in aviation.

“This is nothing more

than weaponized hate,” said

Tennessee Garvey, a pilot

with 22 years of experience.

“There’s never been any proof

that diversity jeopardizes

safety. This is about stoking

fear and division, not

protecting passengers.”

False Narratives, Real

Damage

The

Trump

administration’s baseless

claims are not only insulting

but dangerous. Pilots, air

traffic controllers, and aviation

experts have universally

condemned the idea that

DEI initiatives threaten

safety. The aviation industry

operates under some of the strictest

standards in the world, with all personnel

required to meet rigorous qualifications

regardless of their background.

“Why don’t we go back in history and

research every airplane crash and tell

me how many times a Black pilot was

the cause?” asked Eric Hendrick, Delta

Airlines’ director of pilot outreach and a

former pilot. “Everyone has to meet the

same high standards. To weaponize DEI

like this is just ridiculous.”

Hendrick’s frustration is echoed by

Garvey, who heads the Organization of

Black Aerospace Professionals (OBAP), a

group that has championed the inclusion

and advancement of Black professionals

in aviation for over 50 years. “DEI doesn’t

lower standards—it raises opportunities,”

Garvey said. “Representation is critical

to fostering a stronger, more innovative

industry.”

A Manufactured Crisis

Despite the Trump administration’s

rhetoric, the numbers tell a different

story. Black pilots represent just 4% of all

pilots in the United States, while Latinos

CRISPPI’S CHICKEN from Front Page

From Humble Beginnings to a Bold Vision

Brittany’s journey to create Crisppi’s is

rooted in her upbringing. She credits her love for

cooking to her father, who taught her valuable

lessons in the kitchen that extended beyond

food preparation. Those lessons are now at the

heart of Crisppi’s mission—to create meals with

love, intention, and quality that bring people

together. This dedication caught the attention

of Randy Moss, who saw Crisppi’s as more than

just a restaurant—it’s a platform for change and

community upliftment.

Together, Brittany and Randy have created

account for only 10% of FAA employees.

These figures highlight a systemic lack of

representation, not overreach. Programs

like DEI aim to address these gaps,

ensuring that talent from all communities

has a chance to thrive in an industry that

shapes millions of lives daily.

Oscar Torres, president of the

National Hispanic Coalition of Federal

Aviation Employees, said efforts to

dismantle DEI programs could have

long-term consequences for recruitment

and retention. “Latinos are the largest

minority in the country, but our numbers

in the FAA don’t reflect that,” Torres

said. “DEI isn’t about favoring one group

over another—it’s about making sure

opportunities are available to everyone.”

The FAA has struggled with staffing

shortages for years, particularly among

air traffic controllers. The Bureau of Labor

Statistics projects that 18,000 pilot jobs

will open annually through 2033, yet the

administration’s order could exacerbate

existing recruitment challenges by

discouraging underrepresented groups

from pursuing aviation careers.

something truly special, blending

tradition, creativity, and a focus

on giving back. Their plans

for expansion are rooted in

intentional growth, aiming to

bring high-quality meals to

neighborhoods often underserved

by the restaurant industry.

Innovation Backed by Champions

Crisppi’s is not just a oneman

or one-woman show. South

Florida-based BYB Extreme,

co-founded by Dhafir “Dada

5000” Harris and NASCAR’s

Mike Vazquez, is also on board

as a partner and sponsor. Their

involvement amplifies Crisppi’s

mission, bringing attention to

the importance of community

partnerships. BYB Extreme will

also collaborate with Crisppi’s

on future events, further

strengthening ties to South

Florida neighborhoods.

A Bright Future for Crisppi’s Chicken

Crisppi’s Chicken is more than

a restaurant—it’s a movement.

With its mouth-watering

menu, top-notch hospitality,



BROWARD COUNTY HOUSING AUTHORITY

Industry Outrage

Trump’s executive order has

drawn sharp criticism from major

figures within the aviation industry,

who argue that dismantling DEI

programs undermines safety and

progress. Garvey said the directive

threatens to reverse decades of

mentorship, training, and career

development for Black pilots and other

underrepresented workers.

“This is about dismantling

opportunities and erasing the progress

we’ve made,” Garvey said. “Diversity

makes us stronger. It’s morally right,

and it’s essential for the long-term

success of aviation.”

Hendrick pointed out that diversity

programs have been a cornerstone of

major airlines for decades, independent

of federal mandates. “Trump’s order

is symbolic of what they want to do

politically, but it doesn’t reflect the

aviation industry,” he said. “Airlines

will continue to promote fairness in

hiring and advancement, regardless of

political pressure.”

The Fight for Representation

For advocates like Garvey and

Torres, Trump’s memo only reinforces

the need to double down on efforts

to ensure equal opportunities in

aviation. Organizations like OBAP

and the National Hispanic Coalition

of Federal Aviation Employees are

more determined than ever to support

aspiring pilots, air traffic controllers,

and aerospace professionals from

underrepresented communities.

“We’re not going anywhere,” Garvey

said. “We’re going to keep mentoring,

training, and advocating because

diversity isn’t just important—it’s

necessary. Representation matters,

and we’re going to fight to ensure this

industry reflects the world it serves.”

Garvey stressed that diversity

initiatives are not about lowering

standards but about breaking down

barriers. “There’s nothing wrong

with creating opportunities. There’s

nothing wrong with making people

feel valued. And there’s nothing wrong

with diversity,” he said. “This executive

order might be an obstacle, but it won’t

stop us.”

A Dangerous Precedent

Aviation professionals warn of

the broader implications for other

industries as the Trump administration

continues to weaponize lies about

diversity.

“If this is what they’re willing to do

in aviation, where safety is paramount,

what’s next?” Garvey asked. “This isn’t

just about pilots—it’s about who gets

to participate in America’s economy

and future.”

For now, organizations like OBAP

remain steadfast in their mission.

“We’ve been here for over 50 years, and

we’re not stopping now,” Garvey said.

“This fight is far from over.”

NOTICE OF OPENING - TWO BEDROOM WAITING LIST FOR

EVERGLADES HEIGHTS APARTMENTS

BROWARD COUNTY HOUSING AUTHORITY (BCHA) will accept pre-applications for 2-BEDROOM UNITS

ONLY at Everglades Heights Apartments located at 2400 NW 22 nd Street, Fort Lauderdale, FL 33311.

Online pre-applications will be accepted beginning Thursday, February 6, 2025, at 8:00 AM and will close on Monday,

February 10, 2025, at 4:00 PM.

A computer lottery will randomly select 300 pre-applications for placement on the wait list.

Be prepared to provide identity, legal residency and income information for yourself and each person that you intend to

live with you at the property. Applicants must meet program eligibility requirements as determined by the U.S.

Department of Housing and Urban Development and must also meet the property’s requirements for residency.

PRE-APPLICATION INFORMATION (Please read carefully):

Pre-applications will ONLY be available for completion online at the following website:

(https://bchafl.myhousing.com/). If you do not have access to a computer, you may go to a public library or any other

place where computers are available to access the website to complete the pre-application.

IMPORTANT NOTICE: If you need help filling out the pre-application because of a disability that limits your ability

to access the computer application process, please send an e-mail to accommodations@bchafl.org no later than 4:00 PM

on February 5, 2025.

Families selected must be willing to move to Fort Lauderdale, FL and must meet the following guidelines:

1- The family must qualify for a 2-bedroom unit:

Bedroom size Minimum persons per household Maximum persons per household

2-bedrooms 2 persons 4 persons

2- Total annual income may not exceed the maximum ELIGIBLE INCOME LIMIT per Household:

Number of Persons in 2 3 4

Household

Annual Income $67,550 $76,050 $84,450

BCHA does not discriminate on the basis of Federal or local protected classes in the access to admissions procedures

or employment of its housing programs and activities and provides Equal Housing Opportunity to all.


Deeply Rooted


Celebrating 20 Years of West Park: A Milestone of Growth and Community

By Mayor Felicia M. Brunson

For 20 years, West Park

has not only grown in size

but flourished in spirit. Over

the past two decades, we

have built more than roads,

parks, and businesses—

we have built a resilient

and connected community.

Together, we’ve navigated

challenges with courage

and celebrated countless

accomplishments with pride.

Every shared moment, from

grand milestones to quiet acts

King Family Seeks Review of Files

on MLK Assassination, Bernice

King Addresses Public Disrespect

King’s family’s statement came after President

Donald Trump signed an executive order to

declassify records surrounding the assassinations

of the civil rights icon, President John F. Kennedy,

and Senator Robert F. Kennedy.

By Stacy M. Brown



@StacyBrownMedia

The family of Dr. Martin

Luther King Jr. has expressed

its hope to review records

related to his assassination

before they are made public.

King’s family’s statement

came after President

Donald Trump signed an

executive order to declassify

records surrounding the

assassinations of the civil

rights icon, President John F.

Kennedy, and Senator Robert

F. Kennedy.

“For us, the assassination

of our father is a deeply

personal family loss that we

have endured over the last 56

years,” the family stated in

a message shared by King’s

daughter, Bernice King.

“We hope to be provided the

opportunity to review the

files as a family prior to its

public release.” The family

also noted not granting

interviews as they await

further information.

The release of the

documents hasn’t been the

only moment in the news this

week for King’s family.

The nation observed

Martin Luther King Jr.

Day, which fell on the

same Monday as Trump’s

inauguration this year.

NOTICE OF FUNDING AVAILABILITY (NOFA)

BROWARD COUNTY HOUSING FINANCE DIVISION

GAP FINANCING FOR NEW CONSTRUCTION OR ACQUISITION AND/OR

REHABILITATION OF MULTI-FAMILY AFFORDABLE HOUSING RENTAL OR

HOMEOWNERSHIP UNITS FOR SALE

REQUEST FOR APPLICATIONS (RFA)

of kindness, has defined who

we are as a city.

This year, we are proud

to celebrate West Park’s

20th anniversary—a

remarkable milestone

that reflects two decades

of growth, collaboration,

The Broward County Housing Finance Division (HFD) announces the availability of funds

and is requesting applications for proposals to be funded with Broward County GAP

financing.

ELIGIBLE APPLICANTS FOR NEW CONSTRUCTION OR ACQUISITION AND

REHABILITATION OF MULTI-FAMILY AFFORDABLE HOUSING RENTAL UNITS

Governmental entities, For-Profit organizations and Non-profit organizations authorized

to transact business in the State of Florida with 501(c)(3) status with a successful history

of addressing unique housing needs of the affordable housing market by producing multifamily

rental or homeownership affordable housing units. Eligible applicants shall provide

evidence of site control, land use and zoning approval for the project.

ELIGIBLE PROJECTS FOR NEW CONSTRUCTION OR ACQUISITION AND/OR

REHABILITATION OF MULTI-FAMILY AFFORDABLE HOUSING RENTAL UNITS

Multi-family affordable housing rental units to eligible tenants with incomes at or below 80%

or homeownership units sold to purchasers earning up to 120% of Broward County Area

Median Income (AMI) as established annually by Florida Housing Finance Corporation

(FHFC). Projects may include units above the required AMIs, but these units may not

be financed with GAP funding. Broward County Median Income is $89,100 as of April 1,

2024.

FUNDING AVAILABILITY

Approximately $25 million is available for GAP Financing under this RFA. Applicants may

apply for only one of the following two funding allocations:

a) For a project that includes a minimum of 70 multi-family affordable housing

rental units up to $20 million is available for the new construction or acquisition and/

or rehabilitation of those units that will be affordable for households whose income is

80% or below the area median income (“AMI”). A maximum of $7.5 Million per project is

available, and each must include a minimum of 70 multi-family affordable housing rental

units; or

b) For a project that includes less than 70 multi-family affordable housing rental

units or less than 70 affordable homeownership housing units for sale, up to $5 million is

available for the new construction of those units. Units to be rented must be affordable

for households whose income is 80% or below the AMI and units to be sold must be

affordable for households whose income is 120% or below the AMI. A maximum of $2.5

Million per project is available, and each must include less than 70 affordable housing

units.

These funds require the use of non-County revenue sources. Projects that have received

Broward County GAP Financing in the last three (3) years or are utilizing Florida Housing

Finance Corporation (“FHFC”) 9% tax credits are not eligible to apply for funding under

this RFA.

SUBMITTAL DATE

All Applications must be forwarded to the attention of: Lisa Wight, Project Manager,

Broward County Housing Finance Division, 110 NE 3 rd Street, Suite 300, Fort Lauderdale,

FL 33301 between 8:30 a.m. and 5:00 p.m. Monday through Friday; but no later than

the deadline of 12:00 P.M. on March 28, 2025. Applications received after 12:00 p.m.

will not be accepted and will be returned to the applicant.

REQUEST FOR APPLICATIONS (RFA)

The RFA will be available Friday, January 31, 2025, from 8:30 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. at the

Broward County Housing Finance Division, 110 NE 3 rd Street, Suite 300, Fort Lauderdale,

Florida 33301 or can be downloaded from HFD website at:

http://www.broward.org/Housing/Pages/RFAs.aspx.

Questions concerning this RFA should be directed to Lisa Wight, Project Manager at

lwight@broward.org.

and shared achievements.

This celebration is not just

about recognizing the city’s

progress but also honoring

the residents, businesses,

and organizations that have

shaped West Park into the

vibrant and welcoming place

Bernice A. King joined the children of late civil rights champions the

Rev. C.T. Vivian, and U.S. Rep. John Lewis, in blasting voter suppression

laws that have cropped up since the 2020 election. (Photo: Bernice A.

King, daughter of Martin Luther King Jr. and the CEO of the King Center

introduces civil rights leaders Julian Bond, John Lewis, and Andrew Young

at the Civil Rights Summit at the LBJ Presidential Library.

(Photo by Lauren Gerson /Wikimedia Commons)

Bernice King, the youngest

of King’s four children, told

MSNBC that the overlap

provided an opportunity to

recall her father’s legacy

while the country transitions

to a new administration.

“It’s wonderful that this

occurs on the King holiday,

the inauguration, because it

reminds us of King,” said King,

who was five years old when

her father was assassinated

in 1968. “It points us back to

King. It says, ‘When we move

forward, we’ve got to do it in

the spirit of King.’”

She called on Americans

to remain steadfast in the

values her father championed,

particularly nonviolence. “We

have to strategize. We’ve been

missing the strategy. We’ve

been missing the spirit of Dr.

King,” she said. “The spirit

of Dr. King is nonviolence.

And nonviolence is not just

a posture; it’s a mindset.

It’s a love-centered way of

thinking, speaking, acting,

and engaging that leads

to personal, cultural, and

societal transformation.”

This year marked just the

third time that Martin Luther

King Jr. Day coincided with

a presidential inauguration,

the first during President

Bill Clinton’s second term in

1997 and the second during

President Barack Obama’s

second term in 2013. Obama

took his oath of office using

a Bible that once belonged to

King.

In yet another incident this

week that stirred controversy

surrounding the King family,

rapper Sexyy Red posted an

AI-generated image of herself

and Dr. King at a nightclub

on social media on Martin

Luther King Jr. Day. The

image showed the rapper

holding hands with King in

a crowded setting. The post,

which lacked a caption, was

widely criticized and later

deleted following a request

from Bernice King.

“This is intentionally

distasteful, dishonoring,

deplorable, and disrespectful

to my family and my father,

who is not here to respond

himself because he was

assassinated for working

for your civil and human

rights,” Bernice King wrote in

response.

Despite calling out the

post, King also addressed

negative comments directed

at the rapper, writing, “I

don’t believe Sexyy Red to

be a ‘degenerate,’ ‘ghetto,’ or

‘trash,’” King stated. “I have

spoken out in the past about

the use of and comparison

to either of my parents to

denigrate other people.”

Sexyy Red immediately

apologized, saying, “You

ain’t wrong; I never meant

to disrespect your family.

My apologies. Just reposted

something I saw that I

thought was innocent.”

King accepted the apology.

“I value you as a human

being,” King responded. “I

know that my father has

become a bit of a caricature to

the world and that his image

is often used with no regard

to his family, his sacrificial

work, or the tragic, unjust



it is today.

To commemorate this

special occasion, we are

organizing a variety of events

and activities that will bring

our community together.

These festivities will offer

something for everyone and

create lasting memories for

all who participate. But this

celebration isn’t complete

without you. We invite all

residents to join us, take part,

and make this anniversary

truly unforgettable.

Why Your Participation

Matters

Celebrating West Park’s

20th anniversary is about

more than looking back—

it’s about coming together

as a community to reflect

on our shared journey and

envision an even brighter

future. Your involvement in

these events plays a key role

in strengthening our bonds,

honoring our history, and

shaping what’s to come.

Strengthening Our

Community

West Park is more than

a location; it’s a network

of relationships, shared

experiences, and collective

efforts. By participating in

anniversary activities, you

contribute to strengthening

the connections that unite us.

Each person’s involvement

deepens the sense of belonging

that makes West Park unique.

Honoring Our Shared

History

Brunson

Every resident has

played a role in shaping

West Park into the thriving

city it is today. From our

humble beginnings to the

vibrant community we’ve

become, our journey is one of

perseverance, collaboration,

and success. By engaging in

this milestone celebration,

you help us honor our shared

past, commemorate our

challenges and achievements,

and preserve West Park’s rich

history for future generations.

Shaping Our Future

This anniversary isn’t just

about celebrating our past—

it’s an opportunity to look

ahead. Your participation

represents a step forward,

helping us envision the next

20 years of growth, inclusivity,

and progress. Together, we

can lay the foundation for an

even stronger community for

future generations.

Creating Lasting Memories

Celebrations like this only

come around once, offering

the chance to create cherished

memories with family, friends,

and neighbors. Whether

attending a concert, sharing

stories, or volunteering,

these shared experiences will

become part of West Park’s

story and legacy.

Inspiring Others

Your involvement has

the power to inspire. When



Outrage Builds Over Trump’s

Order Ending DEI in Federal

Agencies and Contracts

from the Front Page

He also noted that DEI initiatives have contributed to

narrowing gender and racial pay gaps.

Dr. Andrea Abrams, executive director of the Defending

American Values Coalition, called the executive order “an

alarming assault on the core values of diversity and inclusion.”

Abrams emphasized that DEI has been instrumental in driving

innovation and economic growth by fostering workplaces

that attract top talent. “By dismantling these efforts, the

administration risks weakening our economy and setting our

nation back for generations,” Abrams said.

SEIU International President April Verrett tied Trump’s

actions to broader policies prioritizing the wealthy over working

families. “This administration has made it clear that its priority

is protecting the privileged few, not creating opportunities for

everyday Americans,” Verrett said.

“We Will Not Back Down”

Rev. Al Sharpton addressed the order at a Martin Luther

King Jr. Day rally in Washington, D.C., warning corporations

that abandoning DEI policies would lead to boycotts. “DEI

was a remedy to the racial bigotry practiced in academia and

corporations. If you want to put us back in the back of the bus,

we’re going to do the Dr. King-Rosa Parks on you,” Sharpton

declared to a packed audience.

Sharpton reminded listeners of the historical struggles for

civil rights and warned that dismantling DEI programs would

provoke a sustained fight. “You must have forgotten who we

are. We are the ones that you took everything from, and we are

still here,” he said.

Economic and Social Impact

Advocates emphasized that DEI policies benefit everyone

by promoting fairness and innovation. “Diversity is not a

partisan issue,” Abrams said. “It strengthens democracy,

ensures economic resilience, and gives everyone a fair chance

to succeed.”

Critics warn that the executive order could reverse decades

of progress. “Programs that promote an inclusive workforce

ensure rules are applied fairly and help build a government

that reflects the people it serves,” Kelley noted.

Labor groups, civil rights leaders, and advocates have

vowed to resist. “Our fight continues,” Verrett said. “We won’t

back down.”


Keke Palmer and SZA serve up the

laughs in “‘One of Them Days”

By Dwight Brown, NNPA

News Wire Film Critic

Keke Palmer and SZA in

‘One of Them Days’ (Tristar

Pictures)

They’re girlz in the hood.

Two young women trying to

make it from “Friday” and

“Next Friday” to “Friday After

Next.” And as they do, they

take viewers on a journey

through working class Los

Angeles that feels like it

was ripped from the past

and updated with a modern

feminist twist.

The film’s comedy roots

CLASSIFIED

ADVERTISE:

*LEGAL NOTICES

*FOR RENT

*FOR SALE

*HELP WANTED


LEGAL NOTICES

IN THE CIRCUIT

COURT OF THE

SEVENTEENTH

JUDICIAL

CIRCUIT IN AND FOR

BROWARD COUNTY,

FLORIDA

FAMILY DIVISION

CASE NO.: FMCE

24-013558

JUDGE: KANNER

IN RE: THE MARRIAGE OF

ROSALIA VINICIO SANTANA,

Petitioner/Former Wife

and

MUSTAPHA BOUHOUCH,

Respondent/Former Husband

NOTICE OF ACTION

FOR DISSOLUTION

OF MARRIAGE

(NO CHILD OR

FINANCIAL SUPPORT)

TO: MUSTAPHA BOUHOUCH,

CURRENT ADDRESS UNKNOWN

YOU ARE NOTIFIED that an action for

DISSOLUTION OF MARRIAGE has

been filed against you and that you are required

to serve a copy of your written defenses,

if any, to the Attotnry of the Petitioner,

Edward A. Lopez, Esq., whose address is

3440 Hollywood Blvd., Suite 415, Hollywood,

FL 33021 on or before FEBRUARY

27, 2025 and file the original with the clerk

of this Court at Broward County Courthouse,

201 Southeast Sixth Street, Fort

Lauderdale, Florida 33301. If you fail to

do so, a default may be entered against you

for the relief demanded in the petition.

Copies of all court documents in the case,

including orders, are available at the Clerk of

the Circuit Court’s office. You may review

these documents upon request.

You must keep the Clerk of the Circuit

Court’s office notified of your current address.

(You may file Notice of Current Address,

Florida Supreme Court Approved

Family Law Form 12.915.) Future papers in

this lawsuit will be mailed to the address on

record at the clerk’s office.

WARNING: Rule 12.285, Florida Family

Law Rules of Procedure, requires certain

automatic disclosure of documents and information.

Failure to comply can result in

sanctions, including dismissal or striking of

pleadings.

Dated January 13, 2025

Clerk of the Circuit Court

Marilyn D. Robinson, Deputy Clerk

January 16, 23, 30, February 6, 2025

Keke Palmer and SZA in ‘One of Them Days’ (Tristar

Pictures)

are showing, employing an

old tradition of two friends

trying to get through life in

a paycheck-to-paycheck part

of town, this time in Baldwin

Hills. Producer Issa Rae

(“Insecure”), screenwriter

Syreeta Singleton (“Insecure”)

and music video director

turned filmmaker Lawrence

Lamont don’t venture far

off the block. Keep it simple.

Give the two lead characters,

Dreux (Keke Palmer) and

Alyssa (SZA), the same kind

of bonding experience as the

“Friday” franchise’s Craig

(Ice Cube) and Smokey (Chris

Tucker) or Craig and Day-

Day (Mike Epps) — then roll

the dice.

Dreux and Alyssa are

roommates. Similar in some

ways, different in others.

They’re so close they can finish

each other’s sentences and

mirror each other’s thoughts.

They chat incessantly. Or

just roll their eyes, toss their

hair in the air and fan their

long fingernails like they’re

talking in a code language.

They chatter continuously

about men, love, life, and the

bills.

The difference is Dreux,

who has a job at a restaurant

named Norm’s, wants to

become a manager and climb

the corporate ladder. She’s

the breadwinner. Alyssa is a

budding artist/painter with

lots of canvasses and no sales

(yet). She’s also distracted

by her live-in and forevermooching

lover Keshawn

(Joshua David Neal), her Ray

J.

Rent is due on their

apartment and the irascible

landlord Uche (Rizi Timane)

ain’t playing. Pay up or get

out. Unbeknownst to Dreux,

Alyssa has given their rent

money to her irresponsible

boyfriend — and it’s gone.

Crisis!!!! Uche confronts them

and his ultimatum is clear:

pay him $1,500 by 6 p.m. or

their stuff will be put out on

the streets. Door locked, end

of story.

The “there ain’t nothing

going on but the rent” plot

device gives the proceedings

momentum for 97 minutes,

cut by editor Tia Nolan. Even

when the pacing goes up

and down with its dialogueclogged

scenes, there is a



Deeply Rooted

goal, and everyone is onboard.

Time ticks away. You can see

it intermittently on the screen

in big bright orange numbers

and letters. A timer notches

the countdown. It’s a fun way

to end the longer sequences

and up the panic factor.

Singleton’s specialty is

episodic TV. She can write

a funny line, like when a

bundle of hair blows by on

the street and someone yells

“tumble weave!” Yet, there’s

a sense, with this segmented

narrative rhythm, that what

you’re watching feels more

like a series of sketches pulled

together than a smooth feature

comedy film, like “Girls Trip.”

Also, the incessant chatting

between the two leads seems

like strained improv at times

and might be better placed on

a TV show, where words carry

the plotline. Would have been

nice if more scenes were

purely visual and the script

NNPA

HOROSCOPE

JANUARY 30, 2025

ARIES-Things speed up again this week

and you are in a highly creative mood.

An outspoken female in your circle may

illuminate a thorny question for you. You’ll be

surprised and pleased by what you hear. 3,

40, 51

TAURUS-Hello home life. After a busy, next

few weeks all you want to do is savor the

feelings of domesticity at home. Or perhaps

go shopping to spruce up your living space.

11, 14, 17

GEMINI-One of your most unique gifts is the

power to change your mind. You know how

to change the way you think, and it gives you

great versatility. This week you may be called

upon to change the way you think about

someone you love. Be kind! 56, 36, 45

CANCER-Focus intently on the personal

this week. Others may seem scattered or

impersonal, but that’s not for you. 20, 30, 50

LEO-A personal decision is made, and you

are happy for the person who makes it. This

person may be younger than you, but you’ve

got a karmic bond between you. 9, 44, 52

VIRGO-A relationship may be heating up this

week. Make sure you know what you want,

then go ahead. Minor challenges on the

home front are easily dealt with if you keep

your sense of humor. 3, 30, 31

NUMBERS

(2-DAY

RESULTS)

Send Self

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JANUARY 30 - FEBUARY 5, 2025 • PAGE 15

Showcasing Excellence BCT Bus Safety Roadeo

Celebrating Skill, Safety, and Community at Amerant Bank Arena

Submitted by Jose Paz

BROWARD COUNTY, FL - Broward County Transit (BCT)

is excited to announce that the annual Bus Safety Roadeo is

taking place this year at the Amerant Bank Arena, 1 Panther

Parkway, Gate 7, Sunrise, FL 33323 on, Sunday, Feb. 2, 2025,

from 8:30 a.m. to 1 p.m. The highly anticipated and dynamic

competition will highlight the outstanding skills of BCT’s bus

operators celebrating their unwavering commitment to safety,

efficiency, and public service excellence.

Bus Operators will be challenged as they put their expertise

to the test. This year, 11 BCT Bus Operators will navigate a

rigorous obstacle course designed to duplicate real-world driving

scenarios that will test their driving precision, problem-solving,

and technical expertise, highlighting the professionalism and dedication required to navigate

Broward County’s bustling roads safely and efficiently.

The Bus Roadeo is open to the public and FREE to attend. This is a family-friendly, employeefocused

event where attendees can enjoy the bus operator competition. There will also be a

variety of engaging family activities like games, crafts, children’s activities, Food Trucks to

buy a range of delicious treats, live entertainment featuring a DJ, and a radio broadcast. The

Broward County Human Resources Team will also be on hand to discuss job opportunities in the

agency.

“The Bus Safety Roadeo underscores BCT’s commitment to safety, innovation, and community

engagement,” said Coree Cuff Lonergan, CEO/General Manager of Broward County Transit.

“This event not only highlights the incredible skills of our dedicated bus operators but also

offers a unique opportunity to see firsthand the hard work

and commitment that goes into their role. It’s a chance to

celebrate the vital contributions of these professionals to

our community and encourage others to consider a fulfilling

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LIBRA-You may feel an extra burst of energy

this week. This is a good time for you to wrap

up any miscellaneous details on a project that

you’ve been working on. 5, 7, 10

SCORPIO-Start setting goals. Do a periodic

cleaning of your home and get rid of the junk

that has been cluttering your life! 2, 39, 45

SAGITTARIUS-Flexibility is needed to deal

with a work issue. You’re sure you’re right but

compromise will be necessary to overcome

someone’s objections. Don’t think they

are being spiteful. They simply see things

differently than you do. 7, 8, 10

CAPRICORN-If you need a good week to

put away the memorabilia of a past love;

this week’s that week. Tuck away his or her

photograph. If it’s over and now it’s time to

move on, don’t stall your love life dwelling on

what was. 1, 26, 33

AQUARIUS-Your harmony with you business

or domestic partner should improve as you

take steps to strengthen communication.

Slow down and give everyone a chance to get

on the same page. 2, 39, 40

PISCES-A little child will lead them is certainly

something you should keep in mind this

week. Wisdom from a little person, a son,

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very helpful to you. Lighten up on yourself.

24, 25, 26

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Deeply Rooted


For the Week oF January 28 - February 3, 2025

MOVEMENT

AT THE

TOP

Albany State Sports Photo

PATRICK GAYLE: Albany State

head coach leads Golden Rams

to close wins over Clark Atlanta

and Morehouse to surge to top

of the SIAC men's race.

HOOPS RACES, TOURNEY DATES & STAT LEADERS;

NEW COACH AT MVSU; ALL-STAR GAME PARTICIPANTS

THE STAT CORNER

WHO ARE THE BEST PERFORMERS IN BLACK COLLEGE SPORTS

BLACK COLLEGE SCORING AND

REBOUNDING LEADERS BY CONFERENCE

thru games of Jan. 27, 2025

SCORING - MEN

CIAA GP MIN FG 3FG FT PTS AVG

Jordan Hinds, BLST 18 569 134 25 66 359 19.9

Jamal Cannady, LIV 18 504 112 17 84 325 18.1

Caleb Simmons, FSU 18 631 104 20 96 324 18.0

Tairell Fletcher, FSU 18 647 119 15 58 311 17.3

SIAC

Walter Peggs Jr., SHU 17 603 140 65 91 436 25.6

Shakur Poteat, ALBST 22 725 140 56 88 424 19.3

Lavar Miller Jr., KSU 19 681 115 83 42 355 18.7

Steven Lyles, SHU 17 607 112 28 62 314 18.5

MEAC

Brian Moore, Jr., NSU 22 684 156 21 84 417 19.0

Blake Harper,, HOW 20 686 111 26 124 372 18.6

Kenton Shaw, MDES 20 691 120 9 123 372 18.6

Marcus Dockery, HOW 20 693 131 56 31 349 17.5

SWAC

Tanahj Pettway, PVAM 21 625 125 36 79 365 17.4

Brayon Freeman,B-CU 16 495 95 23 47 260 16.3

Sterling Young, FLAM 17 399 83 40 50 256 15.1

C.J. Hines, ALST 19 539 98 36 47 279 14.7

A. C. Bryant, ALA&M 19 449 90 33 66 279 14.7

CAA

Ryan Forrest, NCAT 21 684 143 23 93 402 19.1

Landon Glasper, NCAT 21 752 127 70 64 388 18.5

OVC

Brandon Weston, TNST 21 686 103 19 127 352 16.8

SUN

Latavious Mitchell, FMU 18 479 121 4 57 303 16.8

MEC

Jae Slack, WVSU 11 340 60 14 57 191 17.4

GLVC

Franck Yetna, LINCM 18 630 105 22 58 290 16.1

SCORING - WOMEN

CIAA

Nya Morris, CLAF 18 548 138 42 32 350 19.4

Anyssa Fields, LINCP 19 689 130 38 45 343 18.1

Destiny Ryles, BSU 20 563 106 24 120 356 17.8

Ciani Montgomery, LINCP 19 673 134 32 38 338 17.8

SIAC

Taliah Wesley, ALL 17 504 96 28 78 298 17.5

Atreonia Garner, CLATL 20 593 119 1 66 305 15.3

Amari Hamilton, SAVST 16 449 85 1 68 239 14.9

MEAC

Diamond Johnson, NSU 22 751 161 44 46 412 18.7

Laila Lawrence, CSU 21 670 131 17 75 354 16.9

Angel Jones, CSU 21 747 131 21 53 336 16.0

SWAC

Taleah Dilworth, JSU 18 537 92 10 93 287 15.9

Kaila Walker, ALAM 15 420 51 26 84 212 14.1

Cheyenne McEvans, FLAM 17 561 85 25 37 232 13.6

CAA

Jordyn Dorsey, NCAT 19 677 97 14 95 303 15.9

OVC

Somah Kamara, TNST 19 503 100 24 46 270 14.2

REBOUNDING - MEN

CIAA GP OFF AVG/G DEF AVG/G TOT AVG

Dericko Williams, ECSU 17 66 3.9 114 6.7 180 10.6

Abou Camara, WSSU 16 70 4.4 83 5.2 153 9.6

Caleb Simmons, FSU 18 46 2.6 124 6.9 170 9.4

Kingsley Ijeoma, LIV 18 48 2.7 80 4.4 128 7.1

SIAC

Blaise Wallace, ALBST 22 64 2.9 147 6.7 211 9.6

Corey Trotter, MILES 18 38 2.1 129 7.2 167 9.3

Sayerr Senghore, FVSU 18 33 1.8 118 6.6 151 8.4

Shemani Fuller, CLATL 19 45 2.4 110 5.8 155 8.2

MEAC

Blake Harper, HOW 20 24 1.2 111 5.6 135 6.8

Daniel Akitoby, MSU 21 59 2.8 79 3.8 138 6.6

Martaz Robinson, DSU 18 26 1.4 86 4.8 112 6.2

Ketron Shaw, MDES 20 23 1.2 99 5.0 122 6.1

SWAC

Reggie Ward Jr., B-CU 19 31 1.6 125 6.6 156 8.2

Djahi Binet, ALC 19 64 3.4 72 3.8 136 7.2

Romelle Mansel, JSU 17 29 1.7 89 5.2 118 6.9

Antonio Madlock, ALST 18 22 1.2 95 5.3 117 6.5

CAA

Nikolaos Chitikoudis, NCAT 18 64 3.6 101 5.6 165 9.2

SAC

Jamison Epps, LANG 20 39 2.0 110 5.5 149 7.5

SUN

Latavious Mitchell, FMU 17 56 3.3 105 6.2 161 9.5

GLVC

Franck Yetna, LINCM 18 53 2.9 77 4.3 130 7.2

REBOUNDING - WOMEN

CIAA

Carmen Kweti, VSU 19 73 3.8 158 8.3 231 12.2

Morgan Kelson, LIV 17 69 4.1 122 7.2 191 11.2

Alyssa Fields, LINCP 19 60 3.2 125 6.6 185 9.7

SIAC

Keyra Peterson, ALBST 17 54 3.2 103 6.1 157 9.2

Marta Duda, SHU 19 37 1.9 126 6.6 163 8.6

Cantoryia Rivers, LANE 18 52 2.9 93 5.2 145 8.1

MEACW

Laila Lawrence, CSU 21 62 3.0 136 6.5 198 9.4

Kierra Wheeler, NSU 22 73 3.3 127 5.8 200 9.1

McKenzie Stewart, DSU 16 47 2.9 87 5.4 134 8.4

SWACW

Asianae Nicholson, B-CU 19 87 4.6 114 6.0 201 10.6

Alisha Wilson, ALAM 19 84 4.4 105 5.5 189 9.9

Cordasia Harris, ALST 19 55 2.9 110 5.8 165 8.7

SACM

Mikayla Woods, LANG 19 56 2.9 126 6.6 182 9.6

OVCW

Lyric Cole, TNST 18 58 3.2 85 4.7 143 7.9

SUNW

Farres, garcia Agar, FMU 16 67 4.2 106 6.6 173 10.8

MECW

Emyah Fortenberry, WVSU 16 101 6.3 88 5.5 189 11.8

BOLD: Overall leader

CIAA

2 0 2 4 - 2 5 B L A C K C O L L E G E B A S K E T B A L L (Men's Standings and Weekly Honors)

CENTRAL INTERCOLLEGIATE

ATHLETIC ASSOCIATION

DIV CONF ALL

NORTH DIVISION W L W L W L

Lincoln (PA) 3 0 8 0 14 5

Virginia Union 3 1 4 3 10 9

Virginia State 1 2 7 2 12 6

Bluefield State 1 2 4 4 11 7

Elizabeth City State 1 2 3 6 10 8

Bowie State 1 2 2 6 10 10

SOUTH DIVISION W L W L W L

Fayetteville State 4 0 6 3 13 6

Claflin 2 1 5 4 11 8

Shaw 2 1 5 3 10 8

Livingstone 1 2 2 7 10 10

Johnson C. Smith 0 1 3 5 8 8

Winston-Salem State 0 4 0 6 2 14

PLAYERS OF THE WEEK

Reggie Hudson, Sr., G, LINCP - Averaged 18.7

points and 4.5 rebounds in two wins with 21 pts.,

6 rebs., 7 assists vs. ECSU, 16 pt., 3 rebs., 3

assists vs. VSU.

DEFENSIVE PLAYER

Peter Sorber, Sr., F, LINCP - In two wins had 17

rebounds, 3 blocks and a steal.

ROOKIE

Bobby Gardner, Fr., G, VUU - 11 points in win

over BSU, 14 in win over Bluefield State, 6 in win

over WSSU.

MEAC

MID EASTERN

ATHLETIC CONFERENCE SIAC

CONF

ALL

W L W L

Norfolk State 4 1 14 8

Howard 3 1 8 12

N. C. Central 3 2 10 12

S. C. State 3 2 9 11

Morgan State 3 2 9 12

Delaware State 2 3 10 10

Coppin State 1 4 3 17

Md. E-Shore 0 4 4 16

OFFENSIVE PLAYERS

Brian Moore Jr., 6-2, Gr., G, NSU - Led Spartans

with 30 points, 3 recounds and assists vs. Howard,

20 pts., 8 rebs., 2 steals, 1 block vs. WAU.

ROOKIE

Blake Harper, 6-5, Fr., G, HOW - Averaged

14.0 points, 7.5 assists, 1.0 steals in two

losses with 13 pts., vs. Morehouse, 15 pts

vs. NSU.

DEFENSIVE

Kuluel Mading, 6-11, Sr., F, NSU - Totalled 27

points, 11 rebounds, 5 blocks in 2-0 week with

16 pts., 11 rebounds, 3 blocks vs. WAU and 11

pts., 2 rebounds, 2 blocks vs. Howard.

BCSP Notes

Terrell Buckley latest accomplished NFL vet

to get black college head coaching gig

ITTA BENA, MISSISSIPPI — Mississippi Valley State (MVSU)

announced last week the appointment of prolific 14-

year NFL veteran Terrell Buckley as the new head

football coach for the Delta Devils.

A College Football Hall of Famer, Super Bowl

champion, and accomplished coach, Buckley brings

a wealth of experience, passion, and a proven record

of excellence to the program.

Buckley, a native of Pascagoula, Mississippi,

and a standout at Florida State, has spent years

excelling both on the field and the sidelines. He was a two-year starter and

three-year letterman at Florida State (1989–91), and left as the school's

all-time leader in interceptions (21) and interception return yards (501).

His career interception yardage total of 501 is an NCAA record. Buckley

also tied school records for touchdowns off interception returns (four)

and punt return TDs (three). He was named first-team All-American and

won the Jim Thorpe Award, given annually to nation's top cornerback as a

junior when he led the nation with 12 interceptions for 238 yards and two

touchdowns. He was named second-team All-American by Associated

Press, The Sporting News and The Football News as a junior.

Selected by the Green Bay Packers as the fifth overall pick in the

1992 NFL Draft, he went on to enjoy a 14-year career in the league. In his

pro career, he notched 50 interceptions and is one of only two players (the

other being Florida A&M product Ken Riley) with 50+ interceptions to

never make a Pro Bowl. He played for seven NFL teams and won a Super

Bowl XXXVI title with the New England Patriots in 2002.

As a coach, Buckley has been an assistant at Florida State, Akron,

Louisville, Mississippi State and Ole Miss and most recently served as

head coach of the Orlando Guardians in the XFL.

"We're going to build a culture of accountability, hard work, and

belief – because winning starts with the standards we set and the mindset

we bring every single day," Buckley said.

Two black college stars and more in

postseason all-star workouts and games

South Carolina State stud linebacker Aaron Smith and Alabama

A&M standout offensive lineman Carson Vinson are the two black

college stars in postseason all-star workouts and games this week but there

are others from the black college ranks involved.

Smith, a 6-2, 230-pounder out of Manning, S.C., was a first-team all-

MEAC selection after leading the league in tackles with 92 this season

(9.2 per game) for the league-champion Bulldogs. He led SCSU with

17 tackles in the Bulldogs' loss to Jackson State in the season-ending

Celebration Bowl.

He has been working out from Saturday (Jan. 25) thru Tuesday (Jan.

28) at the Dallas Cowboys' AT&T Stadium in Arlington, TX and will

play in the 100th East-West Shrine Game on Thursday. The game will be

played at 7:00 p.m. CT and will carried live on the NFL Network (8 p.m.,

ET).

Smith is wearing jersey #51 and will be playing on the West squad

along with former Jackson State players, QB Shedeur Sanders (#2), DB

Shilo Sanders (#21) and DB Cam'Ron Silmon-Craig, who all finished

their careers at Colorado. Oronde Gadsden Jr., a tight end out of Syracuse

and the son of former Winston-Salem State and NFL standout receiver

Oronde Gadsden, is on the East squad and will wear No. 19. Sanders met

with NFL coaches but did not workout and is not playing in the game.

Additionally, Virginia Union head coach Alvin Parker Jr. with the

East squad and South Carolina State head coach Chennis Berry with the

West squad are serving as HBCU Fellowship coaches with NFL coaches

on the respective squads. Also, former Heisman Trophy winner and

current Tennessee State head coach Eddie George was to be inducted

into the East-West Shrine Game Hall of Fame on Wednesday.

The 6-6, 305-pound Vinson from Mooresville, NC, a first team all-

SWAC selection, is the HBCU product working out this week and playing

in Saturday's prestigious Senior Bowl in Mobile, AL. Vinson will be joined

in the game by former outstanding North Carolina A&T running back

Bhayshul Tuten, who finished his career at Virginia Tech. Vinson will

wear No. 76 and play for the American squad. Tuten is wearing No. 33 and

CIAA

SOUTHERN INTERCOLLEGIATE

ATHLETIC CONFERENCE

CONF ALL

EAST W L W L

Albany State 10 3 13 7

Edward Waters 9 3 14 6

Clark Atlanta 9 3 12 7

Morehouse 6 5 9 10

Fort Valley State 6 6 7 12

Savannah State 5 7 7 9

Benedict 4 9 4 15

Allen 1 8 4 11

WEST

Miles 12 1 15 3

Tuskegee 6 5 8 9

Central State 6 7 9 10

Kentucky State 6 7 9 9

Spring Hill 5 8 7 11

Lane 3 9 3 14

LeMoyne-Owen 3 10 3 16

PLAYER

Shakur Poteat, 6-1, Jr., G, ALB - In big wins

over CAU and Morehouse, averaged 20.5 points,

tallying 25 points, 8 rebounds vs.M'house, 16

points vs. CAU.

DEFENSE

Corey Trotter, 6-8, R-Jr., F, MILES - 15 points,

7 rebounds in close win over SHU Monday, 3

points, 14 rebounds in takedown of Tuskegee

Saturday.

SWAC

SOUTHWESTERN

ATHLETIC CONFERENCE

CONF

ALL

W L W L

Southern 7 0 12 8

Texas Southern 6 1 9 11

Jackson State 5 2 5 15

Alabama State 4 3 8 12

Florida A&M 4 3 7 11

Bethune-Cookman 4 3 7 13

Alcorn State 4 3 4 16

Alabama A&M 3 4 7 13

Grambling State 3 4 6 14

Prairie View A&M 3 5 4 17

Arkansas-Pine Bluff 0 7 3 17

Miss. Valley State 0 8 2 19

PLAYER & NEWCOMER OF THE WEEK

Kavion McClain, 5-10, Sr., G, TSU -

Abilene Christian transfer averaged 22.0

points, 5.5 rebounds, 5.5 assists in two wins

with 24 pts., 6 rebs., 7 assists vs. ALA&M,

20 pts., 5 rebs., 4 assists vs. ALST.

2 0 2 4 - 2 5 B L A C K C O L L E G E B A S K E T B A L L (Women's Standings and Weekly Honors)

CENTRAL INTERCOLLEGIATE

ATHLETIC ASSOCIATION

DIV CONF ALL

NORTH DIVISION W L W L W L

Virginia State 1 0 8 1 15 4

Virginia Union 0 1 6 1 12 4

Bowie State 1 0 7 2 13 8

Lincoln (PA) 0 1 5 4 9 10

Elizabeth City State 0 1 3 5 6 10

Bluefield State 1 0 1 7 8 11

SOUTH DIVISION W L W L W L

Fayetteville State 4 0 7 2 12 6

Claflin 1 1 4 4 8 7

Livingstone 2 0 4 5 6 13

Shaw 0 3 2 5 6 11

Winston-Salem State 1 3 1 7 4 13

Johnson C. Smith 0 2 1 7 5 11

PLAYERS OF THE WEEK

Ciani Montgomery, Sr., G, LINCP - In 1-1 week,

had 25 points in back-to-back games with 7 rebounds,

5 steals.

DEFENSIVE PLAYER

Rashauna Grant, Sr., C, ECSU - Averaged 12.5

points, 12.0 rebounds in two losses.

ROOKIE

Kanyah O'Neal, 5-8, So., G, FSU - 22 points, 4

rebounds, 5 assists and 2 steals vs. Claflin.

MEAC

MID EASTERN

ATHLETIC CONFERENCE SIAC

CONF

ALL

W L W L

Norfolk State 5 0 18 4

Howard 3 1 10 9

Coppin State 3 2 12 9

N. C. Central 3 2 6 14

Md. E-Shore 2 2 7 12

Morgan State 2 3 9 11

S. C. State 1 4 2 19

Delaware State 0 5 3 15

OFFENSIVE PLAYER OF THE WEEK

Diamond Johnson, 5-5, Gr, G, NSU - In win

vs. Howard, had 24 points, 8 rebounds, 7 assists,

3 steals and a block while shooting 10

of 19.

ROOKIE

Shakiria Foster, 5-8, Fr., G, NCCU - Averaged

11.0 points, 4.0 rebounds, 3.5 assists

and 2.5 steals in 2-0 week. Had 17 pts., 5

rebs., 4 steals, career-high six assists vs.

SCSU.

DEFENSIVE

Jada Tiggett, 6-2, So., F, NCCU - Careerhighs

13 rebounds with 18 pts., 3 assists and

3 blocks vs. Pfeiffer. Avg. double-double of

11.5 pts., 10.0 rebs. in 2-0 week.

SOUTHERN INTERCOLLEGIATE

ATHLETIC CONFERENCE

CONF ALL

EAST W L W L

Clark Atlanta 9 3 15 5

Allen 6 4 11 6

Edward Waters 7 5 11 6

Savannah State 5 6 9 8

Benedict 5 7 7 10

Albany State 4 8 7 11

Fort Valley State 3 9 6 12

WEST

Miles 9 3 12 4

Tuskegee 8 4 11 8

Lane 8 4 12 6

Central State 7 5 8 9

Kentucky State 5 7 6 12

Spring Hill 5 7 6 13

LeMoyne-Owen 2 11 5 16

PLAYER OF THE WEEK

Trinity Jones, Gr., G, CLATL - Came off

the bench and scored 21 points vs. EWU

Monday, followed by a 16-points in win over

Albany State on Saturday.

NEWCOMER

Mia Morel, Jr., PG, EWU - Tied for gamehigh

21 points vs. CAU, 4 points, 6 rebounds

vs. Benedict.

SWAC

SOUTHWESTERN

ATHLETIC CONFERENCE

CONF

ALL

W L W L

Texas Southern 7 0 8 10

Jackson State 6 1 8 10

Southern 6 1 8 12

Alabama A&M 5 2 12 7

Grambling State 4 3 7 11

Florida A&M 3 4 6 12

Bethune-Cookman 3 4 6 13

Alcorn State 3 4 5 13

Alabama State 3 4 5 14

Prairie View A&M 2 6 5 12

Miss. Valley State 1 7 2 17

Arkansas-Pine Bliuff 0 7 2 15

PLAYER & DEFENSIVE PLAYER

OF THE WEEK

Aylasia Fantroy, 5-11, So., G, TSU - Averaged

19.5 points, 9.5 rebounds, 2.0 blocks

and 4.5 steals in two wins with 26 points, 12

rebounds, 4 blocks and 4 steals vs. ALST,

13 points, 7 rebounds, 5 assists and 5 steals

vs. ALA&M.

INDEPENDENTS

CONF

ALL

W L W L

SAC

Langston - 4th 11 5 15 5

SUN

Florida Memorial - 1st 7 2 16 4

GLVC

Lincoln (Mo.) - T6th 5 5 13 5

MEC

W. Virginia State - 5th 6 5 9 8

CAA

Hampton - 12th 3 6 10 11

NC A&T - 14th 0 9 4 18

OVC

Tennessee State - T5th 5 5 9 12

PLAYER OF THE WEEK

Latavious Mitchell, 6-8, Sr., F, FMU - In

three wins, averaged double-double of 17.0

points, 14.0 rebounds, 3.3 assists with 20

points, 15 rebounds, 4 assists vs. Southeastern,

13 points,16 rebounds, 2 assists

and 3 steals vs. Fort Lauderdale, 18 points,

11 rebounds, 4 assists vs. Florida College.

will play for the National team

Practices run from Tuesday,

Jan. 28 thru Thursday, Jan. 30

before Saturday's Feb. 1 game at

Smith

Vinson

2:30 p.m. ET at Mobile's Hancock Whitney Stadium on the campus of

South Alabama. The game will be carried live on the NFL Network and

NFL+.

League hoops play hits February

with Tournaments on the horizon

Regular season basketball races in the CIAA and SIAC enter February,

their final month, this weekend.

The CIAA regular season ends on Saturday, Feb. 22 before the

Tuesday, Feb. 25 thru Saturday, March 1 men's and women's Tournaments at

Baltimore's CFG Bank Arena. The league is celebrating the 50th Anniversary

of the Women's Championship Basketball Tournament this year.

The SIAC regular season runs thru Wednesday, February 26 before the

Wednesday, March 5 thru Saturday, March 8 Men's and Women's Tournaments

at Forbes Arena on the campus of Morehouse College.

MEAC regular season play goes on until Thursday, March 6 in advance

of the Wednesday, March 12 thru Saturday, March 15 Men's and Women's

Tournaments at the Scope Arena in Norfolk, Va.

SWAC regular season play ends on Saturday, March 8 with the men's

and women's Tournaments running from Tuesday, March 11 thru Saturday,

March 15 at the Gateway Center Arena in Atlanta, GA.

CIAA

The big news in the CIAA men's race this week was that N. Div. leader

Virginia State is now 7-2 in league play after dropping its first two games,

82-67 to Bluefield State on Wed. (Jan 22) and 70-65 to Lincoln (Pa.) on

Sat., (Jan. 25). It leaves Lincoln (14-5) at 8-0 in conference play as the only

undefeated team. CIAA records in conference play (not divisional play) will

determine seeding in the tournament.

VSU's women (8-1) got two wins to stay atop the women's race.

SIAC

Albany State (10-3) and head coach Patrick Gayle got big, close wins

over contenders Clark Atlanta (68-64) and Morehouse (76-73) to surge to

the top of the men's East Division race. Miles (12-1) walloped Tuskegee (67-

44) and nipped Spring Hill (83-80 in OT) to maintain its West Div. lead.

Clark Atlanta (9-3, East) won two games to stay on top of the women's

E. Div. while Miles (9-3, West) lost to 8-4 Tuskegee (61-42) but beat Spring

Hill and is still the West Div. leader. Miles leads TU by one game.

MEAC

The Norfolk State men (4-1) pulled away to a 92-75 win over Howard

Saturday and the Lady Spartans (5-0) won in a similar way over Howard's

women 69-55 Saturday in a sweep at Echols Arena in Norfolk.

It was the first loss in league play for both the Howard men and women,

both now in second to NSU at 3-1.

SWAC

The Southern men (7-0) and Texas Southern women (7-0) continue

to lead their respective SWAC races. Southern won at Arkansas-Pine Bluff

(83-67, Sat.) and at Miss. Valley State (63-42, Mon.) and has a one-game

lead over Texas Southern (6-1) in the men's race.

The TSU women won at Alabama A&M (75-65, Sat.) and squeaked by at

Alabama State (69-67, Mon.) and has one game leads over JSU and SU, both 6-1.

BCSP NFL PLAYERS OF THE WEEK

For Conference Championship Games of January 26, 2025

OFFENSE

#73 TRENT SCOTT, OT, Washington (7th season, GRAMBLING STATE) -

Started at right guard in Washington’s 55-23 loss to Philadelphia in the NFC

Championship game Sunday. Scott logged 51 offensive snaps (65%) and three

on special teams (10%). The Commanders rushed for 99 yards and and one TD

and passed for 278 yards and one TD while giving up three sacks (-27 yards).

DEFENSE

#6 BRYAN COOK, S, Kansas City (3rd season, HOWARD / Cincinnati) - In

Kansas City’s 32-29 win over Buffalo in the AFC Championship Game, Cook

started at safety and had three solo tackles while playing 43 defensive snaps

(59%) and eight on special teams (33%).

SPECIAL TEAMS

#2 JOSHUA WILLIAMS, DB, Kansas City (3rd season, FAYETTEVILLE

STATE) - In the Rams’ 32-29 win over Buffalo Sunday in the AFC

Championship Game, Williams had one solo special teams' tackle while

playing 20 special teams' snaps (83%).

INDEPENDENTS

CONF

ALL

W L W L

SUN

Florida Memorial - 1st 8 1 15 2

CAA

NC A&T - 1st 7 1 11 8

Hampton - 13th 1 7 5 14

SAC

Langston - 1st 15 1 19 1

MEC

W. Virginia State - 8th 4 7 8 9

OVC

Tennessee State - 11th 1 9 5 15

GLVC

Lincoln (Mo.) - 15th 0 10 1 15

PLAYERS OF THE WEEK

Agar Farres-Garcia, 5-11, Sr., G, FMU

- Had 17 points, 13 rebounds, 2 assists,

a block and 2 steals to lead Sun Conference

leader in 59-52 win over second-place

Southeastern.

© AZEEZ Communications, Inc. Vol. XXXI, No. 26


SPORTS

Deeply Rooted


Jamaica’s Thompson and Clayton

strike gold at Astana Indoor Meet

Nunnie on the Sideline

By Nunnie Robinson, Westside Sports Editor

Well, one out of two ain’t bad. The

Australian Open, held in Melbourne,

presented opportunities for African

Americans to win both male and female

titles in the persons of Ben Shelton

and Madison Keys. Keys, a 10 year

tour veteran, finally won her first major,

defeating Aryna Sabalenka 6-3, 2-6,

7-5. Entering the tournament as

The No. 19 seed, Madison prevailed

over the No. 1 seed in a fast-paced

match, using her powerful serve and a

solid return game to defeat Sabalenka.

On the men’s side Ben Shelton’s failure to take advantage of

a first set 6-5 game lead and a 2 point serve window, eventually

losing 7-6 enroute to a lopsided 3 set defeat to No. 1 ranked

Jannik Sinner.

Dallas Cowboys owner Jerry Jones hired offensive

coordinator Brian Shottenheimer to replace recently fired Mike

McCarthy. Did you ever stop to think why he bypassed on

Deion Sanders? Just pure speculation on my part. Much of the

attention that he commands as owner/general manager and

spokesperson for the Cowboys would have been diminished

because of Deion’s outspoken personality, charisma, and

penchant and willingness to deal with the media. Two strong

type A personalities simply couldn’t coexist in Cowboys country.

I selfishly never wanted him to leave Colorado because of

his impact on young men and unfinished business with the

Buffaloes.

Fellow Mt. Hermonite and my former student at South

Plantation, Jona Brown, is the proud grandmother of Dominique

Wilson, a sophomore sensation at St. Thomas University who

competes in multiple sprint events. Keep your eyes on this

rising superstar.

The Super Bowl finalists are the Kansas City Chiefs and

the Philadelphia Eagles, arguably the two best teams in the

NFL. My choosing Washington to defeat the Eagles just

proved that going with your heart and emotions is not always

sound strategy. The Chiefs’ game against the Bills was highly

entertaining, compelling and hard fought, the final 32-29 score

indicative of such. My heart wants Jalen Hurts and the Eagles

to win, but my professional judgment says Kansas City will find

a way to defeat Philly on its way to an unprecedented threepeat.

Suppose I’m just a sucker at heart. Go Eagles! Besides,

Jalen Hurts is an Omega Man.

HBCU national champions to

play FBS opponent in 2025. Here

is the payout

Photo: Mandela Jones/HBCU Sports

By HBCU Sports

(Source: HBCU)

Jackson State is scheduled to play an in-state FBS

opponent during the 2025 regular season.

According to FBSchedules.com, Southern Miss. added Jackson

State to its fall football schedule.


Submitted by Floirda Memorial University Alumni

MIAMI GARDENS, FL -- Florida Memorial University

(RV) took sole possession of first place in the SUN Conference

with a 59-52 victory over Southeastern (RV), who was tied

with the Lions for top spot in the conference. The win lifts

FMU to 15-2 overall and remain a perfect 6-0 at home in the

FMU Wellness Center.

“It was a tough game, Southeastern are defending champs

of the SUN, they are well coached with Coach Epperson,

and they have a great program, but we were prepared,” said

FMU Lions head coach Kevin Herod. “Our team came in and

watched film multiple times this week, and they knew it

was a must win, like every game, its a playoff game. I think

we did a really good job at keeping the composure, which is

a thing we really focused on, and when things break down,

how to adjust. We did an excellent job doing that today.”

The Lions jumped out to a 16-9 lead in the first quarter and

never looked back, leading 28-19 at halftime. FMU was

led by Agar Farres Garcia, who produced a double-double,

scoring a game-high 17 points and grabbing 13 rebounds to

go along with two assists, two steals and one block.

Fellow Lion Kamesha Moore tied a game-high with

17 points and also generated six boards and six assists in

the win. Teammate Ebony Black-Smith nearly produced a

double-double of her own, scoring nine points while grabbing

a team-high 13 rebounds for FMU. As a team, FMU

dominated the post, scoring 44 points in the paint compared

to just 26 for their opponent. FMU also controlled the glass,

outrebounding the Fire 53-30.

The Lions return to the

court on Wednesday, January

29 as they face Warner on the

road. Tip-off is slated for 5:30

p.m. in Lake Wales, Fla.

Inside Conditions: No respect

for young, Black athletes

By Aubrey Bruce

(Source: Pittsburgh Courier)

Black players that reflect ‘urban’ images will never be

treated equally on and off the field

Last week my house was on fire. My wife told the kids, “be

quiet, you’ll wake up daddy.” (Rodney Dan gerfield)

There was a recent ar ticle posted online titled: “Fans Lose

Respect for CJ Stroud as Calls Mount Against Texans QB’s Dig

Against Chiefs Over Con troversial Refereeing.”

The article was hope lessly flawed from the be ginning stating

that: “The Texans were never good enough. Not to stop his tory in

the making. They lost 7 games in the regu lar season. However,

since they won the wild card game against the Char gers, some

thought they might be able to stand up to the Chiefs. But CJ

Stroud failed to produce the same magic at the Ar rowhead and

lost 23-14, Jan. 18. But his reaction to the game officials was

unexpected. During the post-game conference, the Texans QB

said, “I’m not gonna go back and forth on what I thought was

a call when it wasn’t a call. It’s one of those things you kind of

notice before you walk in that arena. I can’t argue with the ref,

and at the same time, play foot ball.”

The article continued: “No one could have ex pected that the

young QB would place the blame on referees instead of owning

up to his performance.”

Gimme a break. Why should the players or the fan base of

the NFL be forced to grant impunity to the in-game officials

who continually commit error after error during the games

with little or superficial responses from the NFL? Some said

that the Texans were never good enough to beat the Chiefs,

anyway. Well, if they weren’t, why were they good enough to

make the playoffs and why did the Chiefs need help from the

officials to win the game?

How was CJ Stroud supposed to respond? Did they expect him

to be in a great mood, gushing with humility and quoting the

company line saying: “I am sad dat we lost de game boss, but

I am just giddy cause yaw’ll gave us de chance to play in dis

here game.”

NFL teams that have athletes of color with su perior skill

sets that re flect urban and inner-city images will never be good

enough to be treat ed equally on and off the field. They always

have been and for the immedi ate future will continue to be

generationally mis treated, be it economically or socially. With


Houston Texans Quarterback C.J. Stroud

In the women’s 60 meters, Tia Clayton delivered a

performance for the ages, breaking the meet record

with a scintillating time of 7.18 seconds.

By Ian Burnett

(Source: CNW)

KAZAKHSTAN – Jamaican track stars Kishane

Thompson and Tia Clayton, representing the celebrated MVP

Track Club, electrified the Astana Indoor Meet for Amin

Tuyakov Prizes, claiming stunning gold medals in their

respective events on Saturday.

Their commanding performances added another glittering

chapter to Jamaica’s rich legacy in athletics.

Thompson triumphs in 60m dash despite injury scare

In the fiercely contested men’s 60 meters final, 23-yearold

Kishane Thompson, an Olympic silver medalist in the

100 meters, blazed through the track to secure victory in 6.56

seconds. The triumph marked a stellar start to his indoor

season, following his season-opening 6.48 seconds outdoors in

Jamaica just last weekend.

However, the jubilant moment came with a hint of concern

as Thompson appeared to limp moments after crossing the

finish line. While the severity of the issue remains unclear, his

dominance over the field was undeniable, finishing ahead of

Oman’s Ali Anwar Baluchi (6.60 seconds) and Japan’s Shuhei

Tada (6.62 seconds).

Tia Clayton dominates women’s sprint


Photo: gojsutigersfb/Twitter

Shedeur Sanders calls HBCU beginnings

his ‘foundation’ at Shrine Bowl

By Chris Stevens

(Source: HBCU Sports)

After a successful run at Colorado, quarterback Shedeur

Sanders is preparing for the NFL draft and will likely become

a first round pick.

While his name might be announced with CU, Sanders

recently acknowledged his start at Jackson State University

and how the HBCU experience shaped him as a football player.

“HBCUs are definitely a part of my foundation,” Sanders said

at the East-West Shrine Bowl media event this past weekend.

“I’m excited to be a part of that class and in that community.”

Shedeur Sanders talking about his #HBCU roots at Jackson

State and his journey to potential #1 #NFLDraft pick.

“I’m the most guaranteed risk you can take.”#ShrineBowl pic.

twitter.com/me21wNsWva


HBCU makes history

with first-ever

varsity rowing program

By Shaun White

(Source: HBCU News)

Courtesy of XULA Athletics

The Xavier University of Louisiana Rowing Club, which

launched in September 2023 in a partnership with New

Orleans Rowing Club (NORC), is thrilled to announce

that XULA rowing is being elevated to varsity status for the

2025-26 academic year. This milestone breaks barriers as the

first-ever varsity-level rowing program for men and women at

a Historically Black College and University (HBCU), bringing

equality and access to the sport at the collegiate level.

NORC members Elizabeth Manley, Ph.D., professor of

history and chair of Xavier’s history department, and Chloé

Jobin, the club’s head of community outreach and diversity

initiatives, lead the fast-growing sport at the HBCU.



Deeply Rooted


Infinite Scholars Event at the YMCA Awards

Over $27.5 Million in Scholarships

Recently, the Infinite Scholars event at the YMCA was a

tremendous success, with universities and colleges awarding an

impressive $27,542,000 in scholarships to deserving students.

Special thanks to Ms. Sharon Hughes and Fort Lauderdale

City Commissioner Pam Beasley-Pittman for their dedication

and efforts in making this opportunity possible for students in

our community. Different Colleges and Universities were in

attendance Tuskegee , Florida Memorial and FLPD

Congratulations to all the scholarship recipients and thank

you to the participating institutions for investing in the future

of our youth!

Spady Museum Honors Founder Vera Farrington

At Annual Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Brunch

Submitted by Michelle Brown

Photo credit: MasterWing Creative Agency

DELRAY BEACH, FL --The Spady Cultural

Heritage Museum welcomed more than 350 guests to

celebrate the legacies of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr.

and Vera Rolle Farrington at its signature Dr. King

Brunch.

Held January 20 at Indian Spring Country Club,

the event featured uplifting musical performances by

the St. John Primitive Baptist Church Praise Team and

a dramatic performance by actor Tiffany Terrell, who

portrayed voting rights activist Fannie Lou Hamer.

Guest speaker Don Mizell, Esq. regaled the

audience with the behind-the-scenes stories of how

famed musician Stevie Wonder spearhead the creation

of the Dr. King, Jr. national holiday. Mizell had a close

relationship with the international artist, recalling

with humor and sharpness how they pulled off one of

the greatest marketing campaigns in American history.

But at the heart of the event was a remembrance of

Spady Museum Founder, the late Vera Farrington, who

passed away on Sunday, January 12, 2025. She was 95

years old. Farrington’s daughter, Charlene Farrington,

serves as the museum’s Executive Director.

“In honor of my mother, we will continue to bring

people together around Black history,” Charlene said.

The Spady House will celebrate its 100th anniversary

in 2026; the museum staff has plans for a series of

private and public fundraisers in 2025 to ensure that

the “House Still Stands” in Delray Beach.

The Brunch was generously sponsored by The Palm

Beach County Board of Commissioners; the Tourist

Development Council; the Cultural Council of Palm

Beach County; the City of Delray Beach; Eric’s Wrench

of Delray Beach; and Kiwanis Club of Delray Beach.

Yvonne Odom

Charlene Farrington, &

Renee Jadusingh, Esq.

Don Mizell, Esq.

Lauren Zuchman, Andrea Bruton

St. John Primitive Baptist Church Praise Team

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February 2025

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