The Westside Gazette

PRSRT STD

U.S. POSTAGE

PAID

FT. LAUDERDALE, FL 33310

PERMIT NO. 1179

The City of Fort

Lauderdale is

making history

during BHM by

appointing its

first Black female

City Manager,

Rickelle Williams

MORE ON THE WEB

THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 6 - FEBRUARY 12, 2025

VOL. 54 NO. 1 $1.00

Trump’s Trade War Hits

Black America Hardest

as Tariffs Drive up Costs

A MESSAGE FROM

THE PUBLISHER

By Ramon Robinson

FORT LAUDERDALE, FL

-- Authorities are investigating

a late-night shooting outside the

NAACP Fort Lauderdale/Broward

Branch headquarters, an incident

that has sparked outrage in the

community and raised concerns

about safety and equity in law

enforcement response.

The shooting occurred around

11 p.m. on Monday, January

27, at the NAACP office located

at 1100 Northwest 6th Street.

According to the Fort Lauderdale

Police Department (FLPD), officers

responded to a report of gunfire

and discovered two windows

damaged by bullets. No one was

inside at the time, and no injuries

were reported.

FLPD has since partnered

with Crime Stoppers to offer

a reward of up to $5,000 for

Trump’s EEOC

Firings Mark

Dangerous Turn

for Civil Rights

and Workplace

Protections

President Donald Trump fired two of

the three Democratic commissioners

of the Equal Employment Opportunity

Commission (EEOC), a move that civil

rights advocates warn is aimed at

dismantling workplace protections for

racial minorities, women, and LGBTQ+

individuals.

By Stacy M. Brown

NNPA Newswire Senior National

Correspondent

@StacyBrownMedia

As if Black America and other

minorities needed a reminder that the

United States is under a dictatorship,

the country is barreling toward one

of the darkest periods in its 248-year

history.

Continue reading online at:

thewestsidegazette.com

information leading to an arrest.

The department is working

alongside the FBI and the

Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco,

Firearms and Explosives (ATF)

to canvass the area and gather

evidence. Officials have released

an image of a person of interest,

described as a Black male with

a stocky build, wearing a gray

hoodie, blue pants, a black hat,

and black slides.

Marsha Ellison Raises

Concerns About Police

Response

Marsha A. Ellison, President

of the NAACP Fort Lauderdale/

Broward Branch, was notified

about the shooting late Monday

night. She immediately visited

the office and saw firsthand the

damage caused by the bullets.

“When I initially learned about



The Westside Gazette Newspaper

For many in Black

communities, the

cost of that “pain”

is far from abstract.

By Stacy M. Brown

NNPA Newswire

Senior National

Correspondent

@StacyBrownMedia

President Donald

Trump’s latest round of

tariffs—25% on imports

from Canada and Mexico

and 10% on imports

from China—has sent

shockwaves through

global markets, sparking

retaliatory measures

from trade partners

and raising concerns

about the economic

strain on American

consumers. But for Black

Americans, already

facing disproportionate

financial burdens,

the fallout could be

devastating.

“Will there be some

pain? Yes, maybe (and

maybe not!),” Trump said

in a statement. “But we

will Make America Great

Again, and it will all be

worth the price that must

be paid.”

For many in Black

communities, the cost of

that “pain” is far from

abstract. Chaniqua

Jones, a schoolteacher

in New York, is already

hours as the 47th President, he issued executive orders aimed at dismantling

crucial climate, health, and economic protections, which could have dire

consequences for the country and the environment. His actions of disservice

to our communities on the first day of his presidency coincided with Martin

Continue reading online at: thewestsidegazette.com

@TheWestsideGazetteNewspaper

struggling with budget

cuts in her district. “First,

consider that most of our

students struggle with

basic necessities like food

and shelter, and many

tell us that if they can’t

work, they can’t eat,” she

said. “That and reduced

school budgets that we’re

already dealing with

will hurt more because,

something to remember,

we can only use one vendor

that the Department of

Education approves for

supplies, and that vendor

can charge anything they

want, including, if they

Continue reading

online at:


Black Reaction

to Trump DEI

Blame on the

Plane Crash

By April Ryan

“We are dealing with a vicious adversary,”

according to Rev. Al Sharpton, the head of the

National Action Network speaking of President

Donald Trump and his hate diatribe Thursday

American Airlines A319 taking off at Charlotte Douglas International Airport

morning. President Trump blamed DEI, the

NNPA NEWSWIRE — Before the completed investigation Obama and Biden administrations along with

officially began, President Trump laid the blame for the former Transportation Sec. Pete Buttigieg for

accident on the Army helicopter. He felt it should have the deadly midair crash over the Potomac last

been flying at a different altitude, higher or lower, than night. 67 people died after an accident between

the jet

an American Airline Plane and an Army


Top Climate Organizations React to Trump’s Executive Orders

Attacking Health, Environment,

Climate and Clean Energy Jobs

NNPA NEWSWIRE — Climate Action Campaign (CAC), along

with partners and allies, voiced strong concerns about the

executive orders and the confirmation of Lee Zeldin as the 17th

Environmental Protection Agency administrator.

By Jason Roberts

WASHINGTON—President Donald

Trump wasted no time implementing the

Project 2025 playbook. Within his first

The Power of

Diversity, Equity,

and Inclusion

“Then Peter began to speak: ‘I

now realize how true it is that

God does not show favoritism

but accepts from every nation

the one who fears him and

does what is right.” Acts

10:34-35

By Bobby R. Henry, Sr.

The basis of a speech I

delivered at the Tiger Trail

Gala on Saturday February

1,2025

I want to speak to you

not just as a leader, but as

a Black man a human being

who believes in the power

of unity, justice, and shared

purpose. We live in a world

where our actions—good,

bad, or indifferent—ripple

far beyond ourselves. We are

all connected, and the choices

we make, individually and

collectively, shape the reality

we experience.

If we aspire to be

the best—whether as

individuals, organizations,

or communities, we must

embrace the best in everyone.

That means celebrating

diversity, practicing equity,

and committing to inclusion.

These are not just buzzwords;

they are the foundations of

progress and the catalysts for

meaningful change.

The Power of Our

Differences

Diversity is not about

checking a box and filling a

quota. It is about recognizing

that every person brings

a unique perspective, a

different story, and a wealth

of experiences to make



Continue reading online

at: thewestsidegazette.com

Thursday

Feb 6 th

Partly Cloudy

Sunrise: 6:48am

Fri

80°

70°

80°

70°

81°

72°

81°

72°

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)

81°

71°

PAGE 2 • FEBRUARY 6 - FEBRUARY 12, 2025

Leia’s Mathematics

Corner

LENA BOUGHT 3 PACKS OF

MARKERS. EACH PACK CONTAINS 8

MARKERS. SHE GAVE 5 MARKERS

TO HER FRIEND. HOW MANY

MARKERS DOES LENA HAVE LEFT?

129

x 4

99

- 65

Created by Leia Palmer 3rd grader!

Melvin Wright is already making history, establishing

the first and only HIV awareness club in Broward County

at Deerfield Beach High School called “Speak Out,” to

inform students about HIV prevention!

After losing four loved ones to HIV, death was all

too familiar for Melvin Wright. Experiencing such tragic

loss in his family, Melvin used to ask, “Why me?” Now,

determined to make a difference in his community, he

asks, “Why not me?”

This new mindset ignited a passion for HIV advocacy

and through that pain, he found his purpose. Moving

forward, he made it his mission to educate his community

about HIV.

BLACK

HISTORY

Moment

Geraldine Whittington

(1931-1993), known to most as Gerri, is a notable

woman of the Civil Rights Era. She left her mark on

history as the first African American secretary to a

U.S. President in the White House.

How Young Children Learn

by Going Outside

NNPA NEWSWIRE — When children have daily

opportunities to care for plants, trees, animals, and insects,

they practice nurturing behaviors that help them interact

in kind and gentle ways with people as well.

By Jason Roberts

Children learning outside with Teacher

Spending time outdoors every day is a rich and

important part of Head Start’s chosen research-based

curriculum for infants and

toddlers. From the very

beginning, young children

satisfy their curiosity by

exploring with their senses.

Being outside “presents

a new world of sights,

sounds, smells, and tactile

experiences.” Regardless

of whether children live

in urban, suburban, or

rural communities, the

outdoor world provides

opportunities to observe,

discover, and learn that are

not available indoors. The

following are examples of

Head Start Early Learning

Outcomes Framework

knowledge and skills that

young children develop

through the curriculum’s

outdoor experiences.

Social and Emotional

Development

Infants and toddlers

www.thewestsidegazette.com

Kaaliyah 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.

Terrified.

By Kaaliyah Lollar

Black face, Oppressed race, “Cursed” womb to an expected tomb.

Apparently I had ghetto natures, violent tendencies.

I was Physically and mentally different so technically the white man’s enemy.

as a woman I was known as very tumultuous but now I’m on Saint Peter’s list

she told the world I had Razor sharp claws, eyes so deep BLACK obviously

filled with flaws.

As a bright and proudly white woman, she walks down the street armed

And whoever even looks her way will be harmed

I, the victim was none the less BLACK

So her instinct response to a calm civilian was an ATTACK

Look at me…. I said look at what I’ve become!!

Monster! Monster! you scream in horror and you taunt

You created the “beast” so now you are who I’ll haunt

You made a bullet fly through my face maybe you’re insecure of your own

race

You’re just cold killers who can’t leave a trace

And liars, manipulators who want me and my people to be erased

I kiss my kids goodbye everyday with fear it’d be my last

Who on earth knew I’d have to leave the world this fast

Couldn’t be there to tuck my kids in at night

Because of this unfair fight we call life

Couldn’t be there to see them graduate

Because the gun she held was filled with hate

Couldn’t be there to see my 9 year old make honor roll

Because now my name’s on heaven’s scroll

I’ll soon be in peace but my pain will disappointingly repeat

But my time isn’t quite done until I pull the receipts

Every night representing the antiquity I never reached you took my life so

you’ll never sleep

but just jump out of bed to see

My bloody face the gunshot leaving half my face scarred

a crooked smile in your nightmares it’s nothing but a star

Slowly losing your sanity and trust me you’ve come far from lying to the

police to leaving quite a scar

As for me and my kids you left us rending

Their mother’s life is declined not pending

In a crisis like this time will never fly

I’m nothing but a black monster

learn to play together when they

take turns using pails and shovels,

share a ride in a wagon, and chase

each other. Through direct, handson

experiences, young children

learn to be gentle with living

things and with each other. “Deep

bonds can form between children or

children and adults when they share

experiences with nature. When

children have daily opportunities

to care for plants, trees, animals,

and insects, they practice nurturing

behaviors that help them interact in

kind and gentle ways with people as

well.”



Words compiled by KamarJackson,

Sophomore at Dillard High School

Tickets On Sale Now

AMERANT BANK ARENA

MAR 13 – 16

DisneyOnIce.com


Deadly Midair Collision Near Reagan

National Sparks Questions and Blame

Further, on his second day in office, Trump fired the head of the

Transportation Security Administration, terminated the entire Aviation

Security Advisory Committee, froze hiring of all Air Traffic Controllers, a

let go 100 top FAA security officers.

While congressional Republicans

have remained largely silent, GOP

officials privately admit that the



FEBRUARY 6 - FEBRUARY 12, 2024 • PAGE 3

GOP Officials Privately Admit Trump’s Federal

Buyout Plan Violates Federal Law

NNPA NEWSWIRE — While

congressional Republicans have

remained largely silent, GOP

officials privately admit that the

Trump administration’s offer to

pay federal employees beyond the

government’s mid-March funding

deadline violates federal law

By Stacy M. Brown

NNPA Newswire Senior National

Correspondent

@StacyBrownMedia

Federal employees across the

country received an unsettling email

Monday morning—a directive from

the Trump administration’s Office

of Personnel Management (OPM)

outlining a so-called “deferred

resignation program” that offers

workers guaranteed pay and benefits

until September 30, 2025—months

beyond the government’s current

funding deadline. Legal experts,

state attorneys general, and labor

organizations are warning that the

administration’s move is not only

legally dubious but outright illegal.

It violates the Anti-Deficiency Act,

which bars the government from

spending money that Congress has

not authorized.

GOP Officials Acknowledge

Buyout Program Is Illegal

Trump administration’s offer to

pay federal employees beyond

the government’s mid-March

funding deadline violates

federal law. “This is an outright

violation of federal law,” one

Republican official told CBS

News. “Anybody else would be

walked out of an agency for

going $1 beyond appropriated

dollars. The back-of-the-napkin

math on this offer—paying all

federal employees for 6.5 months

beyond current appropriations—

comes out to about $50 billion.

Even if only a fraction accepts,

the obligation is still incurred.”

Despite these warnings,

few expect congressional

Republicans to challenge the

administration’s move, leaving

the program’s legality in limbo.

State Attorneys General

Warn Federal Employees to

Avoid the Scheme

By Stacy M. Brown

NNPA Newswire Senior

National Correspondent

@StacyBrownMedia

A midair collision between an American

Airlines jet and a U.S. Army Black Hawk

helicopter near Reagan National Airport on

Wednesday night has left no apparent survivors.

Officials have recovered 28 bodies so far, 27

from the plane and one from the helicopter—as

search efforts transition from rescue to recovery.

The tragic crash involved American Eagle

Flight 5342, operated by PSA Airlines, which

was enroute from Wichita to Washington, D.C.,

carrying 60 passengers and four crew members.

The Black Hawk helicopter was on a training

flight with three service members aboard.

At a Thursday morning briefing, D.C. Fire

and EMS Chief John Donnelly confirmed that

all passengers and crew members on both

aircraft were presumed dead. Debris from the collision

was found as far south as the Woodrow Wilson Bridge,

about a mile from the crash site.

President Donald Trump issued a brief statement

on White House letterhead about two hours after the

crash, saying, “God Bless their souls,” and thanking

first responders. Later, on his Truth Social platform,

he speculated about the cause of the crash, pointing to

potential failures by the helicopter pilot or air traffic

controllers.

“The airplane was on a perfect and routine line

of approach to the airport. The helicopter was going

straight at the airplane for an extended period of time.

It is a CLEAR NIGHT, the lights on the plane were

blazing, why didn’t the helicopter go up or down, or

turn. Why didn’t the control tower tell the helicopter

what to do instead of asking if they saw the plane. This

is a bad situation that looks like it should have been

prevented. NOT GOOD!!!” Trump wrote.

The statement has drawn scrutiny, as

some have pointed to past policy decisions

affecting air traffic control. Democratic senators

from Virginia have long opposed increased flights

at Reagan National, citing safety concerns. Others

have noted that Trump previously paused funding

for air traffic controllers and has pushed to reduce

their ranks. Further, on his second day in office,

Trump fired the head of the Transportation

Security Administration, terminated the entire

Aviation Security Advisory Committee, froze

hiring of all Air Traffic Controllers, a let go 100 top

FAA security officers.

Transportation Secretary Sean P. Duffy

addressed the crash at Thursday’s briefing, stating

that while “everything was standard in the leadup

to the crash,” investigators were working to

determine what went wrong.



Maryland Attorney General

Anthony Brown joined 11 other

states in cautioning federal

employees against the Trump

administration’s proposal,

calling it an attack on the

government’s ability to serve the

public. “The terms of this vague,

so-called ‘deferred resignation’

put federal employees in an

ambiguous position and risk

straining essential government

resources that people across the

state and country rely on to live

full, healthy lives,” Brown said

in a statement Monday. Unions

representing federal workers

have also condemned the move,

warning that it is nothing more

than an attempt to dismantle

the civil service under the guise

of cost-cutting.

“The number of civil servants



Financial Expert: Trump’s Tariffs Could Bring

Economic Pain to Black and Brown Communities

NNPA NEWSWIRE — Mexico and Canada

each send more than 80 percent of their exports

to the United States, and retaliatory tariffs from

these countries could have severe consequences

By Stacy M. Brown

NNPA Newswire Senior National Corres.

@StacyBrownMedia

President Donald Trump’s sweeping tariffs

on Canada, China, and Mexico—America’s largest trading partners—have already begun to

rattle markets and consumers. The policy, which imposes a 25 percent tax on all imports from

Canada and Mexico and a 10 percent tariff on Chinese goods, is being framed as an aggressive

move to curb migration, drug trafficking, and China’s role in fentanyl production. However, the

economic consequences are already being felt, with financial markets in turmoil and everyday

Americans bracing for price hikes in critical sectors such as fuel, food, and automobiles.

Financial expert Allan Boomer, a seasoned Wall Street veteran with more than two decades

of experience, discussed the economic fallout in an interview with the Black Press. Boomer,

who spent years advising institutional clients and managing multi-million-dollar investment

portfolios at Goldman Sachs before founding his firm Momentum Advisors, assessed the current

financial landscape. “The markets are constantly moving,” Boomer said. “The Dow was down

a bunch earlier today, but it’s already rebounding somewhat. Still, what the market is really

bracing for is an all-out trade war.” Continue reading online at: thewestsidegazette.com

Breaking Barriers

and Making History!

“It is a great honor to build and lead such a diverse

workforce. Every day, the men and women of the

Broward Sheriff ’s Office strive to provide the best

public safety services in Florida to every resident we

serve. This is how history will continue to be made.”

CH MPIONS

WANTED!

The Broward Sheriff ’s Office offers

competitive salaries, excellent benefits,

generous time off and so much more.

Visit jobs.sheriff.org and apply today!


Westside Gazette

Calendar of Events

Deeply Rooted

LOCAL HAPPENINGS IN

BROWARD MIAMI-DADE

AND PALM BEACH

COUNTIES

HAVE YOUR COMMUNITY EVENTS

PLACED ON THIS PAGE

email:wgproof@thewestsidegazette.com

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

Celebrate Announcements:

Call -- (954) 525-1489

Happy Birthday * Weddings * Anniversaries

Retirements * Congratulations


Art Expo & Black History Showcase, Thursday, Feb. 13, 2025.

Celebrate the richness of Black History, arts, and culture

at the Black History Art Gallery and Wax Musum, proudly

presented by the Urban League. Experience an inspiring

and educational showcase curated by Urban League students,

featuring a dynamic presentation that brings history

CITY OF LAUDERHILL

MLK R&B CELEBRATION

Care 4 U Block Party, 901 NW 3rd Avenue,Miami, FL. 33136

Friday, Feb. 7, at 5:30 p.m.

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!

Fiber Artist Kianga Jinaki guides a creative exploration in

fabric arts for Black History Month. Make a collage portrait

or mini quilt with African prints & fabrics. Tuesday, Feb 11

from 3:30 to 5 p.m.,at Main Library

Preregister here: https://ow.ly/7leU50UExaK

#pbclibrary#westpalm#palmbeach#WestPalmBeac

h#thingstodo#BlackHistory#BHM

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

Name:

Address:

City:

State/Zip:

STAY

CONNECTED --


Follow @TheWestsideGazette Newspaper on Social Media

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



100 Black Men of South Florida, Pfizer

Partner to Raise Health Awareness

By Leslie Elus

The 100 Black Men of

South Florida, Inc. (The 100)

and Pfizer Pharmaceuticals

partner to host health

awareness programming

across Miami-Dade and

Broward Counties.

The health promotion

campaign launched with a

cancer awareness workshop

on Multiple Myeloma. The

health workshop was held

at Greater Mt. Pleasant

A.M.E. Church located at

2341 Freedom St, Hollywood,

FL 33020. Over a hundred

parishioners participated in

the program which consisted of

a Sunday service, educational

workshop, and healthy

brunch. Attendees primarily

consisted of residents from

the City of Hollywood and

adjacent municipalities.

John Wright, Associate

Young women are almost twice as

likely to be diagnosed with cancer as

young men: ‘We’re seeing a change’

Women under 50 have an 82% higher cancer incidence rate

than their male counterparts, a new American Cancer Society

report says.

(Credit: PeopleImages/iStockphoto)

By Jacqueline Howard and

CNN

(Source Atlanta Voice)

(CNN) — Charmella

Roark remembers the shock

that stopped her in her tracks

when she learned about

her younger sister’s cancer

diagnosis.

In 2018, Kiki Roark wrote

in their family’s group text

that she had been diagnosed

with stage I breast cancer –

the same disease that had

taken their aunt’s life just a

few years prior.

“I was in disbelief,”

Charmella said of her sister’s

diagnosis. “That’s my first

best friend.”

The New Jersey sisters

never would have guessed

that four years later,

Charmella would receive the

same diagnosis.

The Roark sisters

represent an ongoing trend

emerging in the United

States: More younger women

are being diagnosed with

cancer.

Cancer rates have

generally declined among men

in the US early this century

before leveling out, yet they

appear to be climbing among

women – especially young

women. Cancer diagnoses are

shifting from older to younger

adults and from men to

women, according to a report

released Thursday by the

American Cancer Society.

Middle‐age women

now have a slightly higher

cancer risk than their male

counterparts, and young

women are nearly twice as

likely to be diagnosed with

the disease as young men,

according to the report,

published in CA: A Cancer

Journal for Clinicians. It

appears that breast and

thyroid cancers in women are

driving this increasing trend.

“Breast and thyroid



100 Black Men of America, Inc. members pose for

pictures before church altar.

By Jared Alexander

(Source: The Root)

Dwyane Wade is getting

personal on his podcast, “The

Why with Dwyane.” On the

latest episode, the former NBA

star revealed a recent health

scare he experienced, sharing

information to hopefully help

listeners who could have a

similar experience.

On the episode obtained

by People, Wade spoke to

his co-host Bob Metelus about

the “shocking” diagnosis,

revealing that he had put off

going to the doctor for his

physical appointment for “a

year.”

Wade recalls having

stomach and cramping

issues, as well as issues with

urination. “’Why is my piss

coming out slow, why is my

Director of Community

Clinical Liaisons for Inside

Edge Consulting Group,

shared that community

health workshops “enhance

and enrich communities

of color, especially Black

and Hispanic communities

who are traditionally

underrepresented or under

diagnosed with potentially

life altering diseases such as

Multiple Myeloma.”

Multiple Myeloma is a

rare blood cancer that affects

plasma cells. Plasma cells



Dwyane Wade Opens Up About

Scary Health Diagnosis and More

The retired NBA star revealed he had 40% of his

kidney removed on the latest episode of his podcast.

Dwyane Wade attends the Out100 Event 2024 at

NeueHouse Hollywood on December 11, 2024 in

Hollywood, California. Photo by Presley Ann/Getty Images

Out.com / equalpride (Getty Images)

stream ain’t powerful? Why

is it a little weak?’” he said he

remembers asking. He then

explained that a full body scan

revealed the tumor on one of

his kidneys. “The doctor was

like, ‘You need to have kidney

surgery,’ he explained.

Wade, after other doctors

agreed with the diagnosis,



In her heartbeat, we hear

a mother’s love.

She puts her whole heart into being a mother. We put ours

into caring for you. At Broward Health, our cardiovascular

experts are by your side for every beat, providing customized

care to keep you living the life you love. Learn more at

BrowardHealth.org/CardiacCare.

CUSTOMIZED CARDIOVASCULAR MINIMALLY INVASIVE

TREATMENT PLANS EXPERTISE PROCEDURES

C2645-11_BH_Cardiac24_Patty_WestSideGaz_13.25x10.75.indd 1

1/24/25 1:45 PM


WESTSIDE

GAZETTE

Bobby R. Henry, Sr.

PUBLISHER

NEWSPAPER STAFF

Sonia Henry-Robinson

COMPTROLLER

Tawanna C. Taylor

ADMINISTRATIVE

ASST.

Pamela D. Henry

SENIOR EDITOR

Arri D. Henry

CREATIVE DIRECTOR

Carma L. Henry

COMMUNITY NEWS

EDITOR

Sylvester “Nunnie’

Robinson SPORTS

Editor

Elizabeth D. Henry

CIRCULATION

MANAGER

NoRegret Media

WEBMASTER

Carma T. Taylor

DIGITAL SPECIALIST

Eric Sears

IT SPECIALIST

Ron Lyons

PHOTOGRAPHER

Levi Henry, Jr.: PUB-

LISHER

(Emeritus)

Yvonne Henry: EDITOR

(Emeritus)

WEBSITE:


Broward County’s

Largest African

American Owned and

Operated

Newspaper Serving

Broward - Miami-Dade

and Palm Beach Counties

545 N.W. 7th Terrace

Fort Lauderdale, FL 33311

Mailing Address:

P.O. Box 5304

Fort Lauderdale,FL 33310

OFFICE (954) 525-1489

FAX: (954) 525-1861

E-MAIL ADDRESS:

MAIN

wgazette@thewestsidegazette.com

EDITOR

pamlewis@thewestsidegazette.com

COMMUNITY DIGEST

wgproof@thewestsidegazette.com

PUBLISHER

brhsr@thewestsidegazette.com

PROUD MEMBERS OF

THE: NATIONAL

NEWSPAPER

PUBLISHERS

ASSOCIATION (NNPA)

AND FLORIDA

ASSOCIATION

OF BLACK OWNED

MEDIA

The Westside Gazette

Newspaper is Published Weekly

by Bi-Ads. Inc. DBA Subscription

Rates: $50 Annual

$1.00 per copy

CREDO -The BlacPress

beieves that American best

lead the world away from racial

and national

antagonisms when it accords

to every person, regarless of

race, color or creed, full human

and legal rights. Hating no

person, feaing no person, the

Black Press strives to help

every person in the firm belief

that all are hurt as long as anyone

is held back.

LETTERS TO THE EDTOR

GUIDELINES

We welcome letters from the

public.Letters must be signed

with a clearly legible name

along with a compete address

and phone number. No

unsigned letters will be

considered for publication.

The Westside Gazette reserves

the right to edit letters. Letters

should be 500 words or less.

In Fire’s Wake, a

Community Comes

Together to Prevent

Future Disasters

By Ben Jealous

“As we address the aftermath of

the wildfires, let us resolve not just to

build back better but also smarter,

with a commitment to the environment

and future generations. As a pastor, I

am guided by the principle that caring

for creation is an integral part of our

faith. Let us take inspiration from the

teachings of love and stewardship,

embracing the role of being good

caretakers of God’s earth. Without a

shadow of a doubt, community solidarity

is crucial in the fight against climate

change.

Those are the words of Rev. Dr.

Larry E. Campbell, Senior Pastor of Pasadena, California’s

historic First African Methodist Episcopal Church. Forty-nine

members of his congregation lost their homes to the Eaton Fire

last month.

The Eaton Fire raged through the Pasadena area hitting the

neighborhoods of Altadena especially hard. Altadena, where

many of Pastor Campell’s congregants live, is an unincorporated

part of Los Angeles County just north of Pasadena, nestled in

the foothills up against Angeles National Forest. I grew up in a

California community similarly on the edge of the wilderness.

We were used to fires happening in the forests, but not in our

neighborhoods. Thanks to extreme drought, climate whiplash,

and the other effects of the climate crisis, the people in these

communities now need to grapple increased firestorm threats

in their towns and cities.

Altadena lost at least 17 lives and thousands of homes to

the flames – many more than the City of Pasadena which,

while also devastated, lost just under 200 homes. And the city

leaders and community activists of Pasadena have stepped up

in a big way to help their neighbors.

“In this community we don’t make very large distinctions

between Altadena and Pasadena. We all grew up together, we

all went to school together, and when families who lost their

homes in Altadena reached out to family members for shelter

it was their family and friends in Pasadena who opened their

doors and welcomed them in. We really are one big community,”

Pasadena Councilmember Tyron Hampton told the Los Angeles

Sentinel.

In the face of tragedy, community leaders are also stepping

up not only to rebuild, but to strengthen their communities –

and all of ours – against future disasters by working to combat

the cause of the fires: warming due to the continued burning

of fossil fuels. In 2023, the Pasadena City Council passed a

Climate Emergency Resolution, setting a goal for Pasadena to

run on 100% carbon-free electricity by 2030. Now, in the wake

of the fires, a broad coalition of local activists and advocates are

pushing for Pasadena to hit that target.

Those of us who grew up in the Black Church understand

Adam’s commandment was to defend the Garden, protect the

Garden, nurture the Garden. And the Garden right now is out

of balance in a profound way. We should all take inspiration

from how communities like Pasadena and Altadena are coming

together to care for the Garden and take a stand for their future

and ours.

This sort of resilience is a familiar part of Altadena’s rich

history – and its Black history, in particular.

Altadena was one of the first places in Southern California

where a thriving Black middle class took root in the last century.

It was home to such luminaries as: Octavia Estelle Butler, the

celebrated African American author and first science fiction

writer to receive a MacArthur Fellowship (also known as the

“Genius Grant”); the writer, activist, and early Black Panther

leader Eldridge Cleaver; Sidney Poitier, the Hollywood and

civil rights pathbreaker who was the first Black actor to win

the Academy Award for Best Actor; and Charles W. White, a

local artist famous for his depictions of Black history.

Even Altadena’s earlier history dating back to the 19th

century held stories of both Black achievement and racial unity.

Robert Owens was born into slavery in 1806 and later became

the wealthiest Black man in Los Angeles County. He made

his home just above Altadena at El Prieto Canyon, which was

named for him (“El Prieto” being Spanish for “the dark-skinned

one”). Altadena is the final resting place of Ellen Garrison

Jackson Clark, the abolitionist and civil rights pioneer. And

it was the final home to Owen Brown, son of the abolitionist

John Brown and the last surviving participant in his father’s

raid on Harper’s Ferry. The younger Brown was celebrated

locally among the area’s mixed Black and white post-Civil War

community.

But a UCLA study found Altadena’s Black residents

suffered disproportionately in the recent fires, due to past

policies like redlining. Sixty-one percent of Black households

were inside the Eaton Fire perimeter versus 50 percent of non-

Black households. Nearly half of Altadena’s Black residents

had their homes destroyed or severely damaged. And 57% of

Altadena’s Black homeowners are over the age of 65, making

them particularly vulnerable in the disaster’s aftermath.

This, the first week of Black History Month, let us resolve

not to let the climate crisis take away our history. And let us

remember that what is really at the heart of Black History

Month is our people’s commitment to making us truly one

nation. It should be a priority to prevent future disasters that

would be a waste not only to homes and buildings but to rich

local histories and precious generational wealth. The people of

Altadena and Pasadena are showing us what that path forward

looks like.

Ben Jealous is the Executive Director of the Sierra Club

and a Professor of Practice at the University of Pennsylvania.

Election Theft in the

Context of Racism

By Robert C. Koehler

As the Trump presidency digs its claws into the country –

winner take all! – I look on in terrified amazement as he begins

Deeply Rooted

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

the right to publish Views and Opinions by Contributing Writers that

may not necessarily reflect those of the Staff and Management of

The Westside Gazette Newspaper and are solely the product of the

responsible individual(s) who submit comments published in this

newspaper.

ElonGate: The Scandals

Stretch Out

By Tom H. Hastings

It is on. Elon is burrowing into a

hostile takeover of the US government,

regulations, and economy.

He is clearly quite used to getting

everything he wants by any devious means

or blatant powerplay. Donald Trump is

turning out to be just a minor buffoon at

Elon’s service, a pliable, if blustering,

Muskateer.

Elon bought him and he’s now using him

in many ways:

• Musk demanded access to more than $6 trillion in US

government payouts--everything from Grandma’s Social

Security check and all her personal information to Medicare/

Medicaid payments, government contracts, and literally tens

of thousands of financial functions affecting every single

American. Trump’s indentured squad had to fire a few key

folks to clear the way, but now, in the name of efficiency, it’s all

there for Musk.

• Musk’s team have denied officials at the United States

Office of Personnel Management access to the workings of OPM

and have instead installed themselves in those offices, moving

luxury sofa beds into the DC offices on upper floors, offices with

panoramic views accessible only with security escorts. Some

2.2 million workers are now subject to any treatment, job loss,

and even pension loss.

• Remember that federal government building where you

went to get much-needed unemployment insurance when the

company you worked for laid off skilled workers? Yeah, chances

are that building will close and be listed for sale as Musk begins


Title: Bridging the

Political Divide: A Black

Conservativeâ€s Journey

Through Republican and

Democratic America

By Lt. Ken Roland

In the 1980 presidential election, fresh

out of Purdue University with a degree in

political science and minors in community

development, industrial management, and

history, I found myself stepping into an

unexpected role as a consultant for the Republican

Party. At the time, 95% of Black

Americans were registered Democrats, a

legacy of the civil rights movement and its

alignment with liberal policies. Yet, I saw

something different. I knew Ronald Reagan

was going to win, and I predicted that his presidency would

pave the way for 12 years of Republican rule, with George H.W.

Bush following in his footsteps.

It was a bold move for a young Black professional, given

the political landscape. The Democratic Party had long been

seen as the natural home for Black voters, promising social

programs and civil rights protections. However, my academic

background and my understanding of economic and industrial

trends led me to a different conclusion: putting all our hopes in

one political party was not a sustainable strategy for long-term

influence and progress.

Why the Republican Party?

Working as a consultant, I saw firsthand the appeal of Reagan’s

economic policies, tax cuts, deregulation, and a focus on

industrial growth. Many of these policies benefited businesses,

and I believed they could also be leveraged to uplift Black communities

if properly applied. The narrative that all Republicans

were anti-Black or indifferent to minority concerns was

overly simplistic. There were conservative policies that, if tailored

correctly, could foster entrepreneurship, homeownership,

and economic independence within the Black community.

Yet, I also understood why so many Black Americans remained

loyal to the Democratic Party. Programs such as affirmative

action, social welfare, and civil rights legislation had

clear and immediate benefits. However, I questioned whether

sole reliance on these policies was the best long-term strategy.

The assumption that the Democratic Party would always be

the champion of Black progress was, in my view, a risk one that

could lead to political complacency.

Predicting the Future: A 12-Year Republican Rule

My political instincts told me that Reagan’s charisma and

conservative vision would dominate the 1980s. His emphasis

on economic growth, military strength, and a return to traditional

American values resonated with a broad segment of the

country. I foresaw his re-election in 1984 and correctly anticipated

that his vice president, George H.W. Bush, would follow

in 1988.


arrogantly instituting what can only be

called his plan to devolve America back

to the good old days: back to the era of

Jim Crow certainty and whatever that

might mean.

We’re white, we’re Christian, and

we’re the best! Just ask Pete Hegseth.

This is the “Gulf of America”! It’s

not Trump’s smugly renamed Gulf of

Mexico; it’s the hole in the country’s

collective consciousness, which Mr.

President is hellbent on expanding.

His plan is to make America safe for what it used to be and

allow our old beloved prejudices to return. Deport the illegals!

Kill wokeness! Stamp out understanding and awareness!

All of which leaves a few glaring questions hovering over

the daily news: How the hell did this guy win a majority of

votes? Is he really aligned with the nation’s primary beliefs?

And if he isn’t . . . uh, what happened last November? Was the



Federal Budget:

Dead Goose

(Part III)

“No government not of, for,

and by the people can long

survive that abandons its

Constitutional obligations

to serve all the people, dismantles

its core institutions

of democracy, and fails

to defend its people from

domestic and foreign terrorists.”

John Johnson II..

02/06/25

By John Johnson II

The fable “The Goose

That Laid The Golden Eggs"

again, only slightly raised

taxpayers' concerns about the

dreaded fact that the Federal

Budget is a looming crisis.

Simply put, for the third time,

the Goose is dead! America's

Federal Budget isn’t just

struggling for revenue; it’s on

life support. It's barely being

kept alive by a transfusion of

perpetual budget increases.

This is not a situation we can

afford to ignore. Though it is

painful, the time to act is now.

Sad but true, the U.S. has

not ended the fiscal year with

a balanced budget since 2001.

In other words, the budget

is considered balanced when

spending and revenue are

equal. This balance is not

just a financial concept; it's a

moral imperative that we, as

responsible citizens, must uphold.

Unfortunately, past Presidents

and Congresses have

failed to convince Americans

that attempting to bankroll

the world is unsustainable.

The plain truth is that their

children and grandchildren

face drowning in an ocean of

debt.

Let's face reality: America’s

government can no longer

maintain its moral compass

without a fairer and updated

taxation system. This change

is not just necessary; it's a

beacon of hope for a more equitable

future. It also cannot

continue to allow fraudsters,

wasteful spending, inefficient

accounting practices, and outdated

technology to inhibit

tax revenue flowing into the

U.S. Treasury and the Federal

Budget.

Maintaining an image of humility

and grace at home and

abroad costs hundreds of billions.

Remember, the Goose

is dead! The federal government

borrows money to

pay bills and pay down debt.

Is this any way to run the

world's largest debtor nation?

Eliminating wasteful spending

and balancing the budget

is impossible without a

well-conceived plan to reduce

spending. Using a scalpel

rather than an ax to trim the

budget is far more palatable.

It's not just about cutting

costs; it's about doing so in a

way that preserves the integrity

of our social fabric. Additionally,

would it not make a

mockery of the MAGA slogan

to increase taxes on underpaid

workers while extending

tax cuts to billionaires?

One segment of the population

or programs, such as

low-income residents, Diversity

Equity Inclusion




BUSINESS


Methodology for changing our neighborhood

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

By Ken Roland

A methodology for financial success for a Black man in the

United States must address systemic and historical challenges

while emphasizing empowerment, education, and resilience.

Below is a structured plan that incorporates these elements:

1. Mindset and Vision Development

Define Success: Clearly outline your financial goals, wealth

accumulation, generational wealth, financial independence, or

entrepreneurship.

Educate Yourself: Study Black leaders, entrepreneurs, and

movements to understand how they navigated systemic

barriers.

Build Resilience: Focus on mental and emotional well-being

through practices like therapy, meditation, or mentorship to

combat societal challenges and internalized biases.

2. Financial Education

Learn Personal Finance: Master budgeting, saving, credit

management, and investing through books, online courses, or

community programs.

Understand Systems: Learn about systemic barriers like

redlining and predatory lending and how to navigate them.

Stay Updated: Regularly educate yourself about financial tools,

tax laws, and investment opportunities.

3. Income Generation

Invest in Skills: Pursue skills or certifications in high-demand

fields (e.g., technology, healthcare, finance) that lead to higher

earning potential.

Side Hustles: Start small businesses or gig work to diversify

income streams.

Leverage Technology: Explore opportunities in e-commerce,

content creation, or freelancing.

4. Strategic Networking

Build Relationships: Connect with mentors, peers, and

organizations that align with your goals.

Join Black Networks: Engage with groups such as the National

Urban League, Black Chamber of Commerce, or AfroTech to

access resources and opportunities.

Collaborate: Partner with other Black entrepreneurs or

professionals to share resources and knowledge.

5. Wealth Building

Start Investing Early: Build a portfolio with diversified

investments like stocks, bonds, and real estate.

Homeownership: Work toward owning

property to build generational wealth.

Entrepreneurship: Start and scale

businesses to create wealth for yourself

and your community.

6. Community Focus

Give Back: Support Black-owned

businesses and invest in community

projects.

Educate Others: Share your financial

knowledge to uplift others in your

community.

Advocate: Use your platform to address

systemic issues and push for policy

changes.

7. Overcoming Systemic Barriers

Legal and Policy Awareness: Stay informed about laws and

policies that affect your financial opportunities (e.g., affirmative

action, housing laws).

Seek Allies: Work with diverse allies who support racial equity

and economic justice.

Adapt Strategies: Tailor your approach based on systemic

realities, such as using credit unions that focus on underserved

communities.

8. Long-Term Planning

Create a Legacy: Use tools like trusts, wills, and life insurance

to ensure generational wealth.

Teach Financial Literacy: Empower the next generation within

your family and community.

Sustainability: Build passive income streams to maintain

financial independence over time.

9. Leverage Technology and Resources

Use Financial Tools: Automate savings, track expenses, and

invest using platforms like Acorns, Robinhood, or Betterment.

Access Grants and Scholarships: Seek out programs specifically

designed for Black entrepreneurs and professionals.

Stay Connected: Follow financial influencers and educators

who provide free or affordable financial advice.

This methodology combines practical steps with the

recognition of systemic barriers, providing a framework for

building financial success and uplifting others along the way.

Family Matters Planning

& Consulting LLC

“Family Protect Before

You Need It”

Home-Auto-Commerical-

Disability-Health-Life-Annuity

Gina Hankerson

Burial Trust - Final Expense

Consultant

Funeral Pre-Arrangements

Angelic Monument Headstones-Quality,

Fair Pricing & Fast Production time

Document Preperation-Wills-PoA-Living

Wills

Remote Online Notary

Contact Us before you end up @ need or in need!

Info@FamilyMattersInsuranceagency.com

Office: (954) 330-0220 Cell: (954) 861-9858

Insurance, Bonding, Notary

Cynthia Alexander

President, CEO

Medicare Specialist

Cell: 954-464-7253

cynthia@cynagroup.com

www.cynagroup.com

I can help - whether you are Turning 65, New to

Medicare, or just need a free Medicare review.

Local support to help you navigate your Medicare

options.

Make an appointment today for Monday – thru –

Saturday.

CYNA Group: 7061 W Commercial Blvd, Ste 5

Tamarac Fl. 33319

STS TAX STS TAX

SERVICES INC. in in association with with

Johnnie Smith, Jr.

Jr.

Enrolled Agent

Agent

Franchise Tax Professional

Franchise Tax Professional

*Tax * ax Tax Preparation Preparation * *Accounting Accounting * Payroll

*Payroll

3007 W. Commerical Blvd., Suite 204

3007 W. Fort . Commercial Lauderdale, FL Blvd., 33309

Suite 204

Tel. Fort (954) Lauderdale, 730-2226 - Fax: FL 730-2036

33309

Tel. el. (954) 730-2226 Cell (954) - 303-5779

Fax: (954) 730-2036

johnnie.smith@hrblock.com

Cell (954) 303-5779

johnnie.smith@hrblock.com

www.hrblock.com

www.hrblock.com

133 N. State Road 7

Plantation, Fla. 33317

(Corner of Broward Blvd. & State Rd. 7

(954) 587-7075

* $29.50 - Single Vision

*$44.50 - Bifocal * $89.50 - Progressive

* (-+400 sph+200 cyl/add + 3.00)

FRED LOVELL, Lic. Opt.

(Over 30 Years in Optics)

Do you know a Black-Owned Business that

deserves a spotlight?

Recommend them by sending an e-mail

with their business info to

wgazette@thewestsidegazette.com

ATTORNEY ACCIDENT SETTLEMENTS

($10,000) LOANS $1,000-$5,000

FORECLOSURE $10,000

for your move to another residence

Bankruptcies... Criminal... Immigration...

JOBS... $800 Weekly. Locate car accidents

Joanna Power, P.A.

Divorces... Civil Rights.... Wrongful Death

(754) 210-0093

Advertise Here

Have Your Business Card Placed On

This Page


CHURCH DIRECTORY

First Baptist Church Piney Grove, Inc.

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

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

CHURCH OFFICE HOURS

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

Church Website: www.fbcpineygrove.org

Dr. Ezra Tillman, Jr. Senior Pastor

WORSHIP SERVICES

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

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

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

"Winning the World for Jesus"

Harris Chapel Church, Inc.

Rev. Stanley Melek, M.Div

e-mail: harrischapelinc@gmail.com

2351 N.W. 26th Street

Oakland Park, Florida 33311

Church Telephone: (954) 731-0520

SERVICES

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

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

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

Living Waters Christian Fellowship

Meeting at Central Charter School Building #5

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

(954) 295-6894

SUNDAY SERVICE: 10 AM

Iwcf2019@gmail.com (Church)

lerrub13@gamil.com (Pastor)

Rev. Anthony & Virgina Burrell

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

Mount Hermon A.M.E. Church

Reverend Henry E. Green, III, Pastor

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

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

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

Email info@mthermonftl.com

SUNDAY CHURCH SERVICES

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

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

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

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

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

Meeting ID: 826 2716 8390 access code 55568988#

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

(716) 427-1407 Access Code 296233#

(712) 432-1500 Access Code 296233#

New Mount Olive Baptist Church

Dr. Marcus D. Davidson, Senior Pastor

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

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

CHURCH OFFICE HOURS

Monday- 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

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!


Mt. Hermon Celebrates

Greek Unity Day

By Dr. Sylvia Sloane Jones

On Sunday, February 16, 2025, Mt. Hermon AME Church

and its dynamic spiritual leader - Rev. Henry E. Green, III -

will celebrate Greek Unity Day. The first Greek Unity Day

observance occurred under the leadership of Rev. Michael

Cousin in 1983 and remains one of the pillars of the month

long Black History celebration. Initially, the sororities and

fraternities composing the Devine Nine highlighted the

social and community programs that greatly impacted their

constituents and stakeholders. Later, a greater emphasis

was placed on numbers and attendance with winners

recognized accordingly. In recent years a greater and more

appropriate theme has emphasized unity and comradeship

among the various Greek letter organizations which include

Alpha Kappa Alpha, Delta Sigma Theta, Eta Phi Beta, and

Zeta Phi Beta Sororities respectively; Alpha Phi Alpha, Kappa

Alpha Psi, Iota Phi Theta, Phi Beta Sigma and Omega Psi Phi

fraternities.

Through this program we annually acknowledge and

recognize Black Greek lettered organizations for their

numerous contributions and accomplishments. This year,

Rev. Dr. Santarvis Brown, proud member of Alpha Phi

Alpha Fraternity, Inc., will be the proclaimer of the word

as we recognize and spotlight the members of Alpha Phi

Alpha Fraternity, Inc. This year we have chosen the theme,

“Greeks United by a Common Purpose: Strengthening Our

Community Through Service, Achievement, Friendship,

Tradition, Action, Culture and Advocacy."

Please join Rev. Henry E. Green, III aka Pastor Trae, Chairlady

Dr. Sylvia Sloane Jones and the Greek Unity Day Committee,

and the Divine Nine as we celebrate the 31st Anniversary

of Greek Unity Day at Mt. Hermon AME, Ft. Lauderdale on

Sunday, February 16, 2025 at the 9 a.m. service.

Submitted by Hip Rock Star

RICHMOND HEIGHTS, FL -- The Richmond Heights community

came together on Saturday, February 1, 2025, for a

momentous celebration marking 75 years of history, resilience,

and cultural impact. The 75th Anniversary Brunch & Awards,

hosted at Zoo Miami's Florida Room, honored the community’s

rich legacy and the leaders who have shaped its past, present,

and future.

The event, presented by The Historic Society and the Greater

Miami Convention & Visitors Bureau, drew city officials, community

leaders, and residents for an afternoon filled with reflection,

recognition, and renewed commitment to preserving

the history of Richmond Heights.

Honoring the Changemakers of Richmond Heights

During the celebration, eight distinguished individuals were

recognized for their outstanding contributions to the community:

• Posthumously: Dr. George Battle

• Former Senator Dwight Bullard

• Randall Floyd aka DJ Nasty

• Posthumously: Dr. Donald Hollis

• Dr. Clarence Jones

• Vice Chairman Kionne L. McGhee

• Former Commissioner Dennis C. Moss

• Avery Washington

These honorees, spanning generations, have left a profound

mark on Richmond Heights through their leadership in public

service, healthcare, education, media, and community development.

A Community Rooted in History and Resilience



Renowned Jamaican poet

Velma Pollard has died

By Sheri-kae McLeod

(Source: Caribbean

National Weekly)

Velma Pollard, the

distinguished Jamaican poet,

fiction writer, and linguist,

passed away on February 1,

2025, at the age of 87.

Her literary legacy,

marked by her melodic style

and deep engagement with

Caribbean culture, has left

an indelible imprint on the

region’s literary landscape.

Born in 1937 in Woodside,

Saint Mary Parish, Jamaica, to

a farmer and a schoolteacher,

Pollard developed an early

appreciation for literature and

storytelling. Alongside her

sister, the renowned writer

Erna Brodber, she nurtured

a passion for the arts that

would later define her career.

Pollard attended Excelsior

High School in Kingston

before pursuing higher

education at the University

College of the West Indies,

where she studied languages.

She later earned a Master’s

degree in English from

Columbia University and a

Master’s in Education from

McGill University.

A career of literary and

academic excellence

Pollard’s literary journey

began in childhood when she

won her first poetry prize at

the age of seven. However,

it wasn’t until 1975 that

she pursued publication,

submitting her work to

journals such as the Jamaica

Journal. Her writing, which

includes the acclaimed short

story collection Shame Trees

Don’t Grow Here (1991)

and the novel Karl (1992)—

winner of the prestigious

Casa de las Américas

Literary Prize—garnered

recognition both regionally

and internationally.

Pollard’s

poetry

collections, including Leaving

Traces (2007) and And Caret

Bay Again: New and Selected

Poems (2013), showcase her

ability to blend nostalgia for

rural life with reflections

on modernity. Her work is

celebrated for its philosophical

depth and the richness of its

Deeply Rooted

oral delivery, capturing the

rhythms and complexities of

Caribbean identity.

Beyond her literary

accomplishments, Pollard

was a respected academic

who contributed significantly

to the study of Creole

languages in the Englishspeaking

Caribbean. Her

research shaped the discourse

on linguistic identity and

cultural expression. Her

dedication to this field earned

her an honorary membership

in the Society for Caribbean

Linguistics (SCL) in 2022,

recognizing her service as

both an SCL Executive Officer

and Financial Officer.

Pollard’s presence at the



VIEW OBITUARIES ONLINE AT


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

Acknowledgments/ Announcements:

In Memoriam * Death Notices * Happy Birthdays

Card of Thanks* Remembrances

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

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

Obituaries

Death and Funeral Notices

A Good Sheperd's

Funeral Home

& Cremation Services

Central

Vinnette

Beckford

Funeral

Service

was held

February 1st

at Event Center.

Wyne

Gross

Funeral

Service

was held

February

5th at

Chapel.

Rolshell

Johnson

Funeral

Service will

be held February

15th

Shiloh Baptist

Church.

Catherine Grayton Lane Funeral

services will be held February

8th at Calvary Outreach

Fellowship Center.

FEBRUARY 6 - FEBRURAY 12, 2025 • PAGE 9

James C. Boyd

Funeral Home Services

Joyce Dowells

- 83

Funeral

Service

was held

February 1st

at Brown’s

Temple

Ministries with

Bishop Ronny Thompson

officiating.

LsSonja Manly - 82

Willie James

Walden, Sr.

– 92

Funeral

Service

was held

February 1st

at New Birth

House of Prayer

for All People

Incorporated

with Chief Apostle Dr. Jimmie L.

McWhite’s Funeral

Home Services

Ozane Cayo

Funeral Service

was held

February 1st

at McWhite’s

Funeral

Home

Chapel.

Alfrence L.

Glaser

Funeral Service

was held

January 31st

at McWhite’s

Funeral Home

Chapel.

Sherry Ann

Kearse

Funeral Service

was held

February 1st

at McWhite’s

Funeral

Home.

Damian

Maitland

Funeral

Service

was held

January 31st at

Dania

Cresent

Garbo Powell

Funeral

Service

was held

January 28 at

Revivaltime Tabernacle Worship

Center.

Legendary “New Jack City” and

“Above The Rim” screenwriter Barry

Michael Cooper passes away at 66

By Yuriy Andriyashchuk

(Source: Hip-Hop Vibe)

Barry Michael Cooper,

‘New Jack City’ Screenwriter,

Dies at 66

Barry Michael Cooper,

a pioneer of Black cinema

in the 1990s, passed away

on Tuesday in Baltimore,

Maryland. He was 66.

Cooper’s death was confirmed

by a representative for Spike

Lee, who worked with the

acclaimed writer and producer

on Netflix’s adaptation of

She’s Gotta Have It. Cooper’s

legacy includes iconic films

that shaped the cultural and

social narratives of the Black

experience.

Cooper was more than

a screenwriter. He was

a storyteller whose pen

immortalized Harlem’s

struggles and triumphs.

With New Jack City, Sugar

Hill, and Above the Rim,

Cooper created a “Harlem

trilogy” that defined an era of

urban cinema. His career path

from investigative journalism

to Hollywood screenwriting

reflects a deep understanding

of the communities he

represented.

A Harlem Visionary Who

Shaped Black Cinema

Born and raised in Harlem,

Cooper’s upbringing heavily

influenced his storytelling.

Harlem, often considered the

epicenter of Black culture,

was more than a backdrop in

his work—it was a character

in itself.

Before Hollywood,

Cooper was an investigative

journalist at The Village

Voice, where he exposed the

realities of urban America.

His 1989 article, “Kids Killing



Billie Lewis Funeral service was

held January 12th at Ephesus

Adventist Church.

Kayla Rose

Funeral

Service

will

be held

February 7th

at Chapel.

Pamela

Jackson -

Tracey

Funeral Service

was held

February 1st

at Agape

Worship

Center.

Carrie

Williams

Funeral

Service

will be held

February

8th

Redeeming

Word.

GIVE

THANKS

TO

THE LORD,

FOR HE

IS GOOD.

HIS LOVE

ENDURED

FOREVER.

Psalm 136:1

Marie Aluc

Funeral

Service

was held

February 1st

at McWhite’s

Funeral

Home Chapel.

Annie Ruth

Ayden

Funeral Service

was held

February 1st

at McWhite’s

Funeral Home

Chapel.

Mary

Singletary

Funeral

Service was

held February

1st at First

Baptist Church

Piney Grove.

Tania Tanis

Funeral

Service

was held

February 1st

at

St. Helen

Catholic

Church.

A Family That Prays

Together, Stays Together



Black America, The Time Is Now: No More Warnings, No More Illusions

The war against Black America is no longer theoretical. It is real. It is happening now.

The war against Black America is no longer theoretical. It is real. It is

happening now.

By Stacy M. Brown

NNPA Newswire Senior

National Correspondent

@StacyBrownMedia

America has reached a

precipice. There is no more

waiting, no more wondering,

no more giving the benefit of

the doubt. The war against

Black America is no longer

theoretical. It is real. It is

happening now. And those

who still don’t see it—or

worse, refuse to act—are

signing their own death

warrants.

Donald Trump, the

Heritage Foundation, and

their Project 2025 blueprint

for tyranny have made it

clear: this is a full-scale attack

on African Americans. Yes,

other marginalized groups—

Latinos, the LGBTQ+

community, women—are in

the crosshairs, but if history

is our guide, Black America

has the fewest allies when

the bullets start flying. How

many times have we watched

those who should stand with

us scatter at the first sign of

trouble?

When the MAGA mob

chants about “DEI” and

“wokeness,” they are not

talking about policies. They

are saying the N-word in

polite company.

When they slash funding

for Black institutions, ban

Mother of Home Security System

By Don Valentine

Every owner of a home

security system will extoll

the peace of mind it provides.

Strada services annotated the

security systems merits, “A

well-designed security system

provides a comprehensive

shield against various threats,

safeguarding your property

and peace of mind.” We can

thank the genius intellect of

a Black inventor Marie Van

Brittan Brown. Astonishingly,

Marie’s brilliance was

masked as a hard working

nurse in New York city.

Crime in the early ‘60s was

rampant in Queens. That

Black area had notoriously

slow police response times.

Her husband Albert worked

as an electronics technician

and their shifts were spaced

erratically throughout the

day. This would often leave

her alone at night and they

were both feared for her

safety. Plato wrote “Necessity

is the mother of invention.”

and it sparked the home

security foundation we use

today.

Marie’s biggest fear

was answering the door at

night. Black Past succinctly

described her solution, “At

the opposite side of the door a

camera was attached with the

ability to slide up and down

Marie Van Brittan Brown

to allow the person to see

through each peephole. The

camera picked up images that

would reflect on the monitor

via a wireless system. The

monitor could be placed in any

part of the house to allow you

to see who was at the door.

There was also a voice

component to enable Brown to

speak to the person outside. If

Continue reading online

at: thewestsidegazette.

Black books, and rewrite

Black history, they are

sharpening the knife for what

comes next. The Smithsonian

Institution has already closed

its diversity office. Black

History Month, Juneteenth,

and MLK Day are banned

from federal recognition.

The National Museum of

African American History

and Culture? Next. HBCUs?

Next. The Black Press? In

their sights.

Trump and his regime

of bigotry are gutting every

Black institution and

opportunity they can. They

want to strip our culture, our

legacy, our very existence

from America’s history books,

then from its present, and

finally, from its future.

And let’s talk about

pettiness—because being

petty helped put us here.

Petty revenge. Petty feuds.

Petty ignorance.

DNC Chair Jaime

Harrison and the Democratic

Party ignored the power of the

Black Press. They dismissed

Black media, possibly because

of a short-sighted grudge

over someone’s association

with a group that had zero

impact on the election. But

the consequences of their

pettiness were very real.

That same ignorance

was among several things

that cost Kamala Harris the

election.

Before ceding power to

a dictator, the Democratic

establishment did nothing

to fortify Black media, Black

organizations, or Black

institutions, the very entities

whose purpose is to uplift and

inform Black America.

We do not have the luxury

of pettiness anymore. We do

not have time for grudges.

The enemy is no longer at the

gates. The enemy has crashed

through the walls.

No More Talk—Only

Action

It is time for Black

America to mobilize. Not

with hashtags. Not with

statements. With action. With

money. With power.

Black institutions must

unite like never before.

The NAACP, the National

Urban League, the National

Action Network, the National

Newspaper Publishers

Association, Rainbow PUSH,

the Congressional Black

Caucus—now is the time. No

more operating in silos. No

more petty differences. This

is an emergency. It is the type

of emergency that may have



NATIONAL BLACK HISTORY MONTH, 2025

By the President of the

United States of America a

Proclamation

Recently, I am very honored

to recognize February 2025

as National Black History

Month.

Every year, National Black

History Month is an occasion

to celebrate the contributions

of so many Black American

patriots who have indelibly

shaped our Nation’s history.

Throughout our history,

Black Americans have

been among our country’s

most consequential leaders,

shaping the cultural and

political destiny of our Nation

in profound ways. American

heroes such as Frederick

Douglass, Harriet Tubman,

Thomas Sowell, Justice

Clarence Thomas, and

countless others represent

what is best in America

and her citizens. Their

achievements, which have

monumentally advanced the

tradition of equality under

the law in our great country,

continue to serve as an

inspiration for all Americans.

We will also never forget the

achievements of American

greats like Tiger Woods, who

have pushed the boundaries of

excellence in their respective

fields, paving the way for

others to follow.

This National Black

History Month, as America

prepares to enter a historic

Golden Age, I want to extend

my tremendous gratitude to

Black Americans for all they

have done to bring us to this

moment, and for the many

future contributions they will

make as we advance into a

future of limitless possibility

under my Administration.

NOW, THEREFORE,

I, DONALD J. TRUMP,

President of the United

States of America, by virtue

of the authority vested in me

by the Constitution and the

laws of the United States,

do hereby proclaim February

2025 as National Black

History Month. I call upon

public officials, educators,

librarians, and all the people

of the United States to observe

this month with appropriate

programs, ceremonies, and

activities.

IN WITNESS WHEREOF,

I have hereunto set my hand

this

thirty-first day of January,

in the year of our Lord two

thousand twenty-five, and

of the Independence of the

United States of America the

two hundred and forty-ninth.

CITY OF FORT LAUDERDALE

The City of Fort Lauderdale

invites you to celebrate

February as Black History

Month with these exciting

community events!

REMEMBERING

OUR ROOTS

SATURDAY, FEBRUARY 1 | 3-5 PM

Riverland Park | 950 SW 27th Avenue

KIJIJI MOJA

SATURDAY, FEBRUARY 15 | 2-4 PM

Lincoln Park | 600 NW 19th Avenue

SISTRUNK

PARADE & FESTIVAL

SATURDAY, FEBRUARY 22

SISTRUNK 5K RUN

Registration 6 AM | Start 7 AM

Delevoe Park, 2520 Sistrunk Boulevard

PARADE | 8:30 AM

Along Sistrunk Boulevard from

NW 19th Avenue to NW 9th Avenue

STREET FESTIVAL

Festival Following Parade

Along Sistrunk Boulevard from

NW 9th Avenue to NW 15th Avenue

@playlauderdale

parks.fortlauderdale.gov/bhm


Community Concerns Rise Over

Treatment at The Blue Store

in Our Royal Palm

By Ken Roland

Residents of Our Royal

Palm neighborhood are

raising concerns about the

treatment of customers

at The Blue Store, a local

convenience shop that many

rely on for daily essentials.

Complaints have surfaced

about the way customers

primarily African American

residents are spoken to by

store employees and the

business practices that some

feel are exploitative.

During a recent visit, I experienced firsthand the dismissive and rude

treatment that has become a common complaint among patrons. While

attempting to purchase lottery tickets, I observed a pattern of disrespect toward

customers, with staff speaking harshly and dismissively to the very people who

keep their business running.

Beyond the customer service issues, another major concern is the additional

fees charged to customers who use debit cards instead of cash. These extra

charges create an economic burden on a community that already faces financial

challenges. Many residents believe that such policies disproportionately impact

the local Black population, funneling money out of the neighborhood rather than

reinvesting it back into community businesses and services.

Call to Action: Supporting Black-Owned Businesses

The presence of non-Black-owned businesses in predominantly African

American neighborhoods is not a new phenomenon. Historically, many outside

business owners have set up shop in Black communities, profiting from local

dollars without reinvesting in the people or the infrastructure of the neighborhood.

This ongoing economic extraction prevents wealth circulation and limits the

potential for Black entrepreneurship and economic empowerment.

It is time for the residents of Our Royal Palm neighborhood to take action.

©2019 Aetna Inc.

2017279


Aetna is proud to support the

Broward County Public

Schools.

Aetna.com

Senior Pastor of New Birth,

Civil Rights Advocate, and

Community Organizer

Dr. Jamal Bryant Announces

40-Day FAST Against Target,

urging 100,000 Black

Consumers to

Withdraw Support


Stonecrest, GA -- This past Sunday, Pastor, Social Justice Activist, and Author Dr. Jamal Harrison Bryant,

Senior Pastor of New Birth Missionary Baptist Church and Founder of the Jamal Harrison Bryant (JHB)

Movement, announced the launch of a 40-day economic FAST against Target, calling on African Americans

to stop shopping at the retailer and divest from its stock holdings. This initiative, which begins on March

3 and will conclude on April 19, 2025, is a direct response to Target’s decision to eliminate its Diversity,

Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) commitments, a move that threatens economic opportunities, mentorships, and

hiring initiatives for Black professionals and businesses. Continue reading online at: thewestsidegazette.com

Honoring the Legacy: 49th Annual Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.

Memorial Celebration at the New Mount Olive Baptist Church

Submitted By Jonathan Allen

FORT LAUDERDALE, FL -

The New Mount Olive Baptist

Church was filled with

reverence, inspiration, and a

call to action as the Zeta Alpha

Lambda Chapter of Alpha Phi

Alpha Fraternity, Inc. hosted

the 49th Annual Dr. Martin

Luther King Jr. Memorial

Celebration. With the theme

“Remembering! Celebrate!

Act! Move! A New Day and A

New Challenge!”, the event

honored the legacy of Dr. King

and inspired the community to

continue the fight for justice and

equality. The keynote speaker,

Rev. Dr. Ezra L. Tillman, Jr.

of First Baptist Church Piney

Grove, delivered a powerful

message that resonated with

the audience. He emphasized

that true progress requires not

just remembrance, but active

participation in the pursuit of

justice, declaring, “We must

not only honor Dr. King’s

dream with our words but with

our deeds to ensure that every

generation stands stronger on

the foundation he laid.”

Chapter President Brother

Tony Aranha reflected on the

impact of the event and stated

that “Dr. Brother Tillman’s

words reminded us that we are

the torchbearers of Dr. King’s

legacy. It is our responsibility

to keep moving forward, to

act with purpose, and to be

the change we seek in our

communities.” Dr. Tillman

encouraged those in attendance

to not only celebrate the

progress made but to continue

striving for justice in their

daily lives. The program was

a testament to the Alpha Phi

Alpha Fraternity’s ongoing

commitment to community

service, youth development,

and advocacy. The Alpha’s

Men of Tomorrow participants

are also recognized at the

community event. Alpha Phi

Alpha Fraternity Inc. was

instrumental in the creation

of the Dr. Martin Luther King

Jr. National Memorial in

Washington, D.C.

A special acknowledgment

was given to Brother Judge

Michel A. Robinson, who served

as chairman for the event.

His leadership and dedication

ensured that this year’s

celebration was impactful and

memorable. Brother Judge

Robinson’s guidance helped

make this a momentous event,

that truly honored the spirit of

Dr. King’s legacy. The evening




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

After Winning the Largest Civil Rights Settlement in

American History, $1.25 Billion for Black Farmers,

Attorney Greg Francis Continues The Fight

Orlando based Attorney Greg Francis won $1.25 Billion for Black

Farmers in the Largest Civil Rights Settlement in American History.

Orlando based attorney Greg Francis won of $1.25

By Rhetta Peoples

(Source: The Florida Sun)

ORLANDO, FL —-Attorney Greg Francis

continues to make history in the fight for agricultural

justice, building upon his landmark $1.25 billion

Black Farmers Settlement of 2011. Most recently,

Francis and his team at Osborne & Francis Law

Firm, represented clients in Car Accidents, Medical

Malpractice, and Civil Rights cases, secured over

$154 million in payments for more than 3,400 Black

and Hispanic farmers throughout the Southeast who

faced discrimination from the USDA.

This latest victory stems from the 2022 Inflation

Reduction Act, which allocated $2.2 billion for

compensating minority farmers. In 2024, Francis

led a legal initiative in Washington D.C. to protect

farmers’ rights regarding the USDA’s claims and

filing processes for distributing these funds.

“Those farmers just wanted the same opportunities

as everyone else,” Francis stated. “Financial payments

can’t erase the discrimination the farmers faced, but

they are relieved that their voices were finally heard.”

Francis shares his insights and experiences

through speaking engagements nationwide, inspiring

diverse audiences with messages of persistence,

justice, and growth.

Francis Speaking Topics:

Deeply Rooted

NUMBERS

(2-DAY

RESULTS)

Send Self

Addressed

Envelope and

$10.00 to:

C.L.HENRY or

S.H. ROBINSON

P.O.BOX 5304

FORT

LAUDERDALE,

FL 33310

For

Entertainment

Purpose Only!

* Standing on Giants’

Shoulders: The Power

of Collective Impact –

Recognizing how your work

contributes to a larger legacy

and inspires advocates,

attorneys, and leaders to build

upon previous generations’

achievements

* Seeds of Resilience:

From Hope to Harvest –

Transforming small seeds

of hope into realized dreams

through perseverance and

determination despite

obstacles

* Building Your Legacy: A

Guide for Men – Creating

lasting impact and meaningful



29

82

37

64

82

53

75

54

21

15

1

6 2

26

Amscot provides a wide variety of smart financial solutions for our customers

including check cashing, electronic bill payment, free money orders, and cash

advances. In addition, customers may also obtain and load an Azulos Prepaid

MasterCard ® , wire money, send a fax, make copies, buy stamps, and use a safe,

accessible ATM for often less than many banks or other establishments may

charge. And we do all this, from early in the morning to late at night, 365 days

a year with many branches open 24-hours!

59

PROFILES

64


FEBRUARY 6, 2025

48

17

13

54

42

56

76

41

89

21

15

Teen court

What Florida’s Justice

Systemis Doing to

Decrease Marijuana Use

Among 12 to 17-Year-Olds

Watch a Conversations on Cannabis

virtual forum to hear an expert discuss

his experiences with drug court and its

impact on youth substance use.

MIAMI RED

632

786

HOT

LEAD NUMBER

4

Pick 2

621/526

24616

JUNE

59

MAY

APRIL

38

66

26

39

67

MAR.

BLACK HISTORY & JUNETEENTH

T-SHIRTS

ON SALE NOW

To Order T-Shirts

Call Sonia at (954) 646-0330

16

26

44

68

FEB.

09

17

27

45

69

FEBRUARY

04

05

11

18

28

46

77

06

12

19

29

47

78

07

13

22

33

48

08

14

22

34

49

JULY

15

AUG

24 25

35 36 37

SEPT.

13

55 56 57 58

79 88 89 99 02 03

CAPRICORN AQUARIUS PISCES ARIES TAURUS GEMINI

48-07-37 02-64-61 36-45-24 29-48-25 12-58-22 47-45-38-

CANCER LEO VIRGO LIBRA SCORPIO SAGITTARIUS

32-85-04 15-54-52 38-19-39 28-75-46 09-14-37 19-29-65-

OCT.

WHAT’S HOT? 02-64-62-19-06

LATEST LOTTERY RESULT as of Tuesday, February 6 at 5 p.m.

POWERBALL

12-37-47-54-60 17 3x

DP 07-38-39-42-55 10

Pick 3

3011/9346

JACKPOT Triple Play

03-04-15-33-37-45

Pick 4 Pick 5

49501/47686

812921/043706

FANTASY 5

Mid Feb. 4) 05-21-25-29-33

Evening Feb. 3) 05-07-09-24-34

NOV.

DEC.

CASH4LIFE

08-09-15-25-46 1

19

22

32

44

FLORIDA MEGA MILLION

09-28-48-56-63 2 2x

61

Doublues

LOTTO

13-15-23-26-43-53

11-14-19-34-40-49

FRUITS, FRUITS & FRUITS

SOFT SHELL PECANS $7 a bag

AND THE BEST BOIL & ROASTED

PEANUTS ON THE PLANET, PERIOD!

QUART BAGS $10.00.

I am sorry it had to come this-

No more FREE:

Onions, Bell Peppers, Tomatoes

and Potatoes.

Prices will increase Jan. 1, 2025

CALL FORD -- (954) 557-1203.

Follow ‘Conversations on Cannabis’ on

Watch Now

@MMERIForumRadio

ALL T-SHIRTS FOR SALE

CALL (945) 525-1489 or (945) 646-0330

BLACK HISTORY *BLACK LIVES MATTER

* WHITNEY HOUSTON*BREAST CANCER

* DR. KING * POSITIVE WOMAN

* JUNETEENTH

CALL FOR FORD(954) 557-1203


SPORTS

Nunnie on the Sideline

By Nunnie Robinson, Westside Gazette Sports Editor

The shock waves are still reverberating

over the blockbuster NBA trade featuring

superstar players Luka Doncic, formerly of

the Dallas Mavericks and Anthony Davis,

a 2020 title winner with his former team,

the Los Angeles Lakers. Two questions

beg responses: why the trade and who

won, simply put. Dallas management is

of the opinion that they’re in position to

compete for a title now, because of Davis’

presence with his inside skills as a scorer,

rebounder and defender. The Lakers, I

reasonably surmise, are looking toward

the future with this 25 year old offensive

scoring machine. At 40 Lebron is still a phenomenal player, but

how many more years playing at an all star level are in the cards

for him.

The why is just as plausible, especially from Dallas’ perspective.

Two overt concerns were defensive deficiencies and physical

conditioning. Perhaps they believe that James can influence his

improvement in that area. Both players were out injured when

the trade occurred but will be available to compete after the allstar

weekend break. Both players have also accepted the trade

positively and professionally. Known as a player’s league, could

the NBA be experiencing a seismic shift with greater power and

control returning to owners. If these two can be traded without

prior knowledge or consent, then no one is untouchable. And by

the way, Jimmy Butler is still a Miami Heat, but if you’re like me, it’s

time to end this saga. The NBA trade deadline is Thursday.

Longtime FLorida State University basketball coach Leonard

Hamilton will retire at the conclusion of the season after 23 years.

FSU All-American and 14 year NFL great Terrell Buckley

joins a growing list of former pros to connect with HBCUS as the

head football coach. A Mississippi native, he was recently named

head football coach at Mississippi Valley State University in Itta

Bena, Jerry Rice’s alma mater. Although there were other hires

before Deion at JSU, his success opened doors for those who

followed such as Eddie George, Tennessee St.; Chris Goode,

Miles; Desean Jackson, Delaware St.; Michael Vick, Norfolk St.;

and Sam Shade, Alabama A&M. Perhaps and despite NIL, these

coaches will attract better athletes to HBCUS.

Something of Note: Over 35 former HBCU alums are in the Pro

Football Hall of Fame.

So much has happened since the 60s and the end of segregation;

however, I still have reservations about whether integration was

truly the best or most beneficial choice for African Americans.

Hindsight is 20-20, I know, but…………….

Florida A&M University

Rattlers to Face Howard

University Bison in the 2025

Orange Blossom Classic

Historic Rematch Set for Labor Day

Weekend at Hard Rock Stadium

Submitted by Jessica Garrett Modkins

MIAMI GARDENS,

FL -- The stage is set for an

exciting rematch this Labor

Day Weekend as the Florida

A&M University (FAMU)

Rattlers return to the Orange

Blossom Classic (OBC) to

face off against the Howard

University Bison at Hard Rock

Stadium in Miami Gardens,

Florida. This matchup not only

promises to be an electrifying

game but also brings the OBC

full circle, honoring its historic

beginnings.

In a special moment during

today’s press conference,

FAMU signed a multi-year deal

to participate in the Orange Blossom Classic, solidifying their

commitment to this iconic event. The OBC is proud to celebrate

FAMU’s ongoing partnership and its vital role in continuing

the tradition of HBCU excellence.

The 2025 Orange Blossom Classic rekindles a storied

rivalry between two legendary HBCU football programs. The

last time these teams met, FAMU defeated Howard in a nailbiting

2023 Cricket Celebration Bowl, with a final score of 30-

26. This year’s rematch gives Howard the opportunity to even

the score, while FAMU looks to maintain its dominance on the

field.

“This year’s matchup is not only a rematch of their 2023

Celebration Bowl showdown, but it also takes us back to the very

beginning,” said Kendra Bulluck-Major, Executive Director of

the Orange Blossom Classic. “The inaugural Orange Blossom

Classic in 1933 featured these two historic programs—Florida

A&M and Howard—facing off at the Black Only’s Ballpark in

Jacksonville, Florida, in front of 2,000 fans. To see this rivalry

come full circle, while celebrating the rich history and legacy of

HBCUs, is truly special. We are excited to bring this experience

to fans during Labor Day Weekend 2025.”

A Historic Legacy of HBCU Excellence

“The Orange Blossom Classic represents much more

than football—it’s a celebration of community, culture, and

the incredible legacy of HBCUs,” said Oliver Gilbert III,

Commissioner of Miami-Dade County’s District 1. “Bringing

FAMU and Howard together again continues the tradition of

excellence that this game has always embodied. Labor Day

Weekend 2025 will be one to remember, and Miami Gardens is

ready to welcome fans and alumni to this historic event.”

“Our city is proud to host the Orange Blossom Classic once

again in 2025,” said Rodney Harris, Mayor of the City of Miami

Gardens. “This event brings excitement, unity, and energy to

Miami Gardens, and we are thrilled to welcome back fans and

alumni for another unforgettable weekend.”


Deeply Rooted

Rattlers release 2025

football schedule

By Vaughn Wilson

The Florida A&M Athletic Department announced their

2025 schedule tonight during a home women’s basketball game

as the Lady Rattlers took on the Alabama State Hornets. The

Rattlers will play a full 12-game slate with a mixture of

Division-I FBS, Division-I FCS and Division-II.

The Rattlers, coming off a 7-5 season (5-3 SWAC) look

to rebound to championship form under second year head

coach James Colzie. Along with rebuilding the roster with

one of the top-rated FBS-to-FCS classes in the NCAA, he has

revamped his coaching staff. The Rattlers will definitely be a

representation of the Colzie era.

The Rattlers revive their participation in the Denny’s

Orange Blossom Classic with a season-opening rematch of the

2023 Celebration Bowl as they will face the Howard Bison. The

Aug. 30 game will take place in Hard Rock Stadium and is a

throw back to the very first Orange Blossom Classic in 1933

when the Rattlers and bison faced off in Miami.

The Rattlers will travel back down south on the second week

to Boca Raton to take on the first of two FBS team. FAMU will

take on the FAU Owls on Sept.6.

He home season opener will be on Sept. 13 against the

Albany State Golden Rams of the SIAC. The game will be a

return to Bragg Stadium for ASU head coach Quinn Gray who

is a FAMU Sports Hall of Famer for his career as a Rattler

signal caller under legendary coach William “Billy” Joe.

The Rattlers will enjoy their only open week on Sept. 20

before returning to Ken Riley Field to take on Eddie Robinson’s

Alabama State Hornets to open SWAC play.

October 4, the Rattlers will travel to Ita Bena, MS to take

on the Mississippi Valley State Delta Devils. The Rattlers will

look to square things up with MVSU after the Delta Devils

pulled the home upset of the Rattlers that was the longest in

FCS football.

October 11, the Rattlers face their second MEAC team

as Trae Oliver and the Eagles of North Carolina Central

University visit Tallahassee for the first time since the Rattlers

left the MEAC. This will constitute a showdown of two of the

last three Celebration Bowl Champions.

October 18., the Alcorn State Braves will make their way

to Bragg Stadium after an extended absence. This will be the

first time the Rattlers have faced the Braves since joining the

SWAC.

October 25., the Rattlers make the trek to Baton Rouge,

LA. The defending SWAC West champions will try to break the

Rattlers’ streak of victories in the series. The Rattlers pulled


Former Super Bowl champion Calvin Jones dead

at 54 in apparent carbon monoxide poisoning

Getty Images

By Will Zimmerman

(Source: New York Post)

Former Green Bay Packers Super Bowl champion and

Nebraska Cornhuskers legend Calvin Jones died Wednesday.

He was 54.

The running back’s death is indicative of carbon monoxide

poisoning, Omaha police told WOWT-TV.

Officers arrived at Jones’ home around 8:30 p.m., Wednesday

after a neighbor reported odors of gas. Inside, they found a

generator running and Jones unconscious in the basement.

While there were “signs of carbon monoxide poisoning,”

the official cause of death has not yet been confirmed and is

pending an autopsy report.

According to Husker Extra, Jones had been running a

generator in his basement because the furnace in his house

had stopped working.

An Omaha native, Jones grew to national acclaim playing

for his hometown Cornhuskers from 1991-93. He led the Big

8 Conference in scoring during his freshmen season and was

named an All-American during his sophomore campaign.



THE WG

SPORTS CORNER

By Nunnie Robinson, Westside Gazette Sports Editor

Despite all the turmoil surrounding Jimmy Butler and the

Miami Heat, the team is positioned to win the relatively weak

Southeast Division as they currently sit in first place with a

24-23 won/ loss record, followed by the faltering Orlando Majic,

Atlanta Hawks, Charlotte Hornets and Washington Wizards.

Bam Adebayo and Tyler Herro have assumed leadership

roles on and off the court. Other players contributing on the

court include Terry Rozier, Duncan Robinson, Haywood

Highsmith, Jamie Jaquez, Nikola Jovic and Kel’el Ware, a

7’ center with an enormous upside. Hopefully, the draft will

provide or gift the Heat with another D- Wade.

The Heat have feverishly attempted to trade Jimmy Butler,

even reducing their compensation demands, while Jimmy

Butler has made it crystal clear that he wants to play in

Phoenix with Devin Booker and Kevin Durant. A trade to the

Suns is problematic because of Bradley Beal’s large, no trade

contract. Golden State has shown sincere interest, but Jimmy

has nixed that option, stating that he wouldn’t sign a contract

extension if traded there.

Of course, much could happen between now and the trade

deadline, which is Thursday at 3:00pm.

Inserting 7-footer Kel’el Ware into the starting lineup has

freed Bam Adebayo to play at his more natural position, power

forward. Bam referred to the change as “liberating” prior to

Tuesday’s game against the Bulls in Chicago. Coach Eric

Spoelstra’s hand was coerced because of the ongoing suspension

of Jimmy Butler for repeated conduct detrimental to the team.

Miami is seeking to deal Butler ahead of Thursday’s NBA trade

deadline.

The Florida Panthers

After 54 games, our defending National Hockey League

champion Florida Panthers stand in first place in the tough,

competitive Atlantic Division with a 32-19-3 record and 67

points. Following closely in the division are Toronto, Ottawa,

Detroit, Boston, Tampa Bay and Montreal, all with winning

records. Buffalo sits last with a 21-26 record in the 8 team

division.

Top Panther players are Aleksander Barkov, center; Sergei

Bobrovsky, goalie; Aaron Ekblad, defenseman; Dmitry Kulikov,

defenseman; Carter Verhaeghe, center and Matthew Tkachuk.

The ‘24 Stanley Cup champions visited the White House this

week as is customary with professional sports champions. A

championship repeat is certainly a realistic possibility and

expectation.

The Panthers play the Washington Capitals, led by Alex

Ovechkin, who is chasing Wayne Gretzky’s all time scoring

record. The Capitals have a sterling 34-11-7 record. ESPN

will televise the Tuesday game with a 7:00pm starting time.

On Thursday they travel to St. Louis to play the Blues before

returning home on Saturday to play the Ottawa Senators at

Amerant Bank Arena in Sunrise.

Terrell Buckley sets ground

rules as HBCU football coach.

‘We’re not going to complain’

By Chris Stevens

(Source: HBCU Sports)

Terrell Buckley has seen just about everything in his 30-

plus years in the game of football.

In his introduction as Mississippi Valley State’s new head

coach, he laid down some ground rules that he believes will

help turn around a program that has not had a winning season

in nearly 20 years.

“We’re not going to complain; we’re going to take

action,” Buckley said Monday afternoon. “And if you do

complain…the transfer portal works two ways.”

Buckley, 53, a Mississippi native, was hired as MVSU’s

head coach last week, ending a search that began with the

departure of Kendrick Wade Jr.

Buckley played 14 seasons in the NFL, winning a Super Bowl

with the New England Patriots during the 2001 season.

Following his playing days, he spent many years as an

assistant coach at his alma mater, Florida State, Louisville,

Akron, Mississippi State, and Ole Miss before coaching the

Orlando Guardians of the then-XFL in 2023.

Buckley promised to bring talented players to Itta Bena,

first on its home turf, then expanding.

“I’ve recruited all over this country, but starts and ends with

Mississippi,” he said.

Buckley also said his door would be open to anyone and

everybody with a vested interest in the program’s success.

“I want to make sure that we as an administration are one,”

he said. “Doesn’t matter if it’s a tutor, professor – my door is

always open. Alumni, former players; come back. I want to see

you. I have no issue talking ball with you.”



Making

their

mark.

This Black History Month, we celebrate

those driven to write their own story,

supported by the leaders and mentors

who inspire them on their journey. Join

the first certified African American

master chef and his young protégé in

exploring how heritage and history

shape the path ahead.

Watch now at

publix.com/blackhistorymonth.

Assistant Sous Cameron Byron

The Westside Gazette

Create successful ePaper yourself

Delete template?

Save as template ?