The Westside Gazette

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THURSDAY,JUNE 11 - JUNE 17, 2026

VOL. 55 NO.19 $1.00

Jolly’s Latest

Move Signals a

New Phase in

FLORIDA

Governor’s Race

A MESSAGE FROM

THE PUBLISHER

Projected Revenue Loss

for Florida School Districts

and Counties Under

Governor’s Property Tax

Reform Proposal

Update (June 2, 2026): Lawmakers have amended the

property tax reform proposal, SJR 2-F, to preserve

school funding.

By Florida Policy Institute

Ahead of Gov. Ron DeSantis’ special

session on property taxes, the Senate

announced and filed SJR 2-F (2026),

reflective of the governor’s proposal, to

create a $250,000 homestead exemption

for primary residences and a pathway to

full elimination of homestead property

taxes. Under the proposed joint resolution,

homeowners who are permanent residents

by the end of 2026 would be eligible to

receive a $150,000 homestead exemption in

2027, a $250,000 exemption in 2028, and full

elimination thereafter based on a “uniform

procedure for counties, municipalities, and

school districts … to increase the amount …

exempt from taxation … up to all remaining

assessed valuation.”

Joint resolutions are the only authorized

method by which the Legislature may propose

amendments to the state constitution. To pass,

both chambers must approve the resolution

by a three-fifths vote. If the Legislature

passes SJR 2-F, the resolution would appear

as a proposed amendment on the November

2026 ballot, where it would need 60 percent

approval to become law. If the resolution

passes, it would adversely impact counties,

school districts, municipalities, and special

districts like Children’s Services Councils

and Hospital Districts. To offset the revenue

loss, localities would have to increase taxes

and fees and/or make budget cuts, effectively

leading to a cost shift as Floridians either

pay more for or lose vital public services.

Whereas lawmakers considered several

Continue reading online at:

thewestsidegazette.com

By Bobby R. Henry, Sr.

Florida’s 2026 gubernatorial race

is beginning to take shape, and recent

developments suggest that Democrat David

Jolly is positioning his campaign to compete

in every corner of the state.

Reports indicate that Jolly is preparing to

announce former Congresswoman Gwen Graham

as his choice for lieutenant governor. If confirmed,

the move would bring together two well-known

names in Florida politics and signal an effort to

build a coalition that reaches beyond traditional

party lines.

Graham, the daughter of former Florida

Governor and U.S. Senator Bob Graham, carries

a political legacy recognized by Democrats,

independents, and many moderate Republicans.

Her selection would likely appeal to voters seeking

experience, stability, and a less divisive approach

to governing.

At the same time, Jolly has strengthened

his campaign team by bringing in influential

Jerry Demings suspends

Democratic gubernatorial bid

following cancer diagnosis

The Orange County mayor said staying in the race would

have ‘likely led to injurious effects’ on his prognosis.

By Mitch Perry

The Westside Gazette Newspaper

(Photo by Mitch Perry/Florida Phoenix)

Orange County Mayor and Democratic

gubernatorial candidate Jerry Demings announced

Friday he is suspending his 2026 campaign after

being diagnosed with a treatable form of prostate

cancer.



Democratic

Gubernatorial Candidate

David Jolly

Attorney

Sean Pittman

Democratic strategist and attorney Sean Pittman

as a campaign co-chair. Pittman is widely

respected throughout Florida’s political circles and

has long been viewed as one of the state’s most

effective political organizers and fundraisers. His

involvement signals that key Democratic leaders

are beginning to rally around Jolly’s candidacy.

These moves come at a critical moment. With

Orange County Mayor Jerry Demings no longer

pursuing the governor’s race, many Democratic

leaders are consolidating behind Jolly as the party’s

most viable challenger to the Republican nominee.

The Republican field continues to be led by

Congressman Byron Donalds, who enjoys the



Pompano Beach has

a new Postmaster,

Nicole Lovett, who

will be sworn into

office on Wednesday,

June 17, at 10 a.m. at

the Pompano Beach

Cultural Center, 50 W. Atlantic Blvd., Pompano

Beach, FL 33060.

The installation ceremony is open to the public.

No RSVP required. Refreshments will be served.

As Pompano Beach Postmaster, Nicole Lovett

oversees delivery operations at the Pompano

Beach Processing and Delivery Center (3150

NW 33 Street, Pompano Beach, FL 33069) and

eight retail units serving 453,000 residential

and business addresses in Coconut Creek, Coral

Springs, Lighthouse Point, Margate, North

Lauderdale, and Pompano Beach. The Pompano

Beach team is made up of 619 dedicated employees

who provide outstanding mail and package service



politics reaching a fever pitch, it’s

time to renew this partnership.”

Jones added, “When you combine



@TheWestsideGazetteNewspaper

Former Congresswoman

Gwen Graham

Pompano Beach has a new

Postmaster, Nicole Lovett

By Debra Jean

Fetterly

NATIONAL LEADERS IN MIAMI FOR FIRST BLACK-JEWISH ALLIANCE IN MORE THAN 25 YEARS

BLACKPRESSUSA NEWSWIRE — Throughout the convening,

attendees reflected on the historic partnership between Black and Jewish

communities during the Civil Rights Movement. At the same time, they

emphasized that the goal is not to recreate the past, but to build a broader,

more durable future-facing alliance.

By BlackPressUSA

National Convening on the Black-Jewish

Alliance. It is the first national gathering

Historic gathering launched

emerging national alliance to

of its kind in more than 25 years, aimed at

renewing one of the most consequential

combat antisemitism, racism, partnerships in American history.

and division through renewed

Black-Jewish solidarity

Hosted by the Exodus Leadership

Forum and Redstone Family Foundation

TV personality Van Jones at EAST Hotel Miami, the convening

and media executive and brought together clergy, organizers,

philanthropist Shari Redstone artists, philanthropists, educators,

joined more than 100 leaders

from across the United States

in Miami this weekend for the

civic leaders and cultural figures. The

goals were to strengthen relationships;

confront rising antisemitism and racism;

and help shape a shared national strategy

for Black-Jewish partnership in the years

ahead.

“It has been almost a quarter century

Van Jones and media executive and philanthropist Shari Redstone

since Black leaders, Jewish leaders

and leaders who are both Black and

Jewish pulled ourselves together

like this,” said Van Jones. “With

anti-Black and anti-Jewish backlash

Sometimes When

You Win, You

Actually Lose

Blessed are the

peacemakers, for they

will be called children

of God. ---Mathew 5:9


The other evening, while

having dinner with several

Jewish couples, our conversation

naturally turned to politics,

the state of America, and the

direction of our nation under the

current administration. As often

happens in such discussions,

opinions varied, but one thought

remained constant in my mind:

regardless of who occupies

positions of power, those at the

bottom of society often continue

to bear the heaviest burdens.

My thoughts were

immediately directed back to

an article I read pertaining to a

meeting recently held in Miami

concerning the relationship

between Blacks and Jews. More

than 100 national leaders,

including Van Jones and

philanthropist Shari Redstone,

gathered in Miami for the first

National Convening on the

Black-Jewish Alliance in over

25 years, aimed at renewing

a historic partnership. Hosted

by the Exodus Leadership

Forum and Redstone Family

Foundation, the event focused

on combating antisemitism and

racism while building a stronger,

future-focused alliance between

Black and Jewish communities.

During our dinner

conversation, I remarked that

while the higher echelons of

our communities may find

ways to adapt and thrive, those

struggling on the margins often

continue to catch hell regardless

of who claims victory.

After dinner concluded and

everyone was about to leave, I

approached one of the Jewish

gentlemen from the table of

(Cont’d on page 5)

Thursday

June 11 th

Fri

76°

88°

Sunny

Sunrise: 7:03am

76°

89°

76°

89°

77°

88°

Sunset: 7:41pm

Sat Sun Mon Tues

77°

86°

75°

85°

WESTSIDE GAZETTE IS A MEMBER:

National Newspaper Publishers Association (NNPA)

Southeastern African-American Publishers Association (SAAPA)

Florida Association of Black Owned Media (FABOM)

position in Home

igious “Retool Your

ition and receiving a

,000 grant dedicated

ancement.

ler temperatures and

, the collective spirit

ost 135 participants,

epot Daytona Beach

r Therese Watsonforces

in yesterday’s

ort. Their Take mission Civic

, involving projects

ssembling bookcases

tdoor dining sets to

rcade games, foosball

and community impact.

ball hoops, hockey

tennis tables. Even

er conditions couldn’t

ication, with the only

PAGE 2 • JUNE 11 - JUNE 17, 2026

Urban League

Youth Leaders

Leadership to the

Nation’s Capital

Urban League of Broward County

youth leaders participate in a

transformative civic engagement journey

designed to inspire leadership, public service,

Submitted by Alica Brown

BROWARD COUNTY, FL – June

5, 2026 – Nine youth leaders from the

Urban League of Broward County’s

Leadership and Civic Engagement

Program have embarked on a lifechanging

journey to Washington,

iveness after

ated service.

e to 30,000

have been

or at least

ut receiving

ncome-driven

will now see

n.

participated in the vote for B-CU. These enhancements

will help create more vibrant and engaging spaces for

our students to retreat on campus for a brain break or

find inspiration through the downtime.”

Home Depot’s “Retool Your School” program,

together in an unforgettable experience.

established For in many 2009, of these has students, been a the beacon trip for positive change,

marks more than a visit to the nation’s

providing over $9.25 million in campus improvement

capital. It represents their first time

grants to traveling Historically Washington, Black D.C. and, Colleges for and Universities

some, one of their first major travel

(HBCUs). experiences Beyond altogether. competition, Through this the Office of Alumni

immersive opportunity, students will

Continue reading online at: thewestsidegazette.com

Biden credited the success

of these relief efforts to the

corrective measures taken

to address broken student

loan programs. He asserted

that these fixes have removed

barriers preventing borrowers

from accessing the relief they

were entitled to under the law.

D.C., from June 4–6, 2026, where civic

learning, leadership development,

and firsthand exposure to the nation’s

democratic institutions will come

step beyond textbooks and classrooms to

experience leadership, history, and civic

responsibility in real time.

The students are members of Broward

By Jabari Bovell

As teenagers, we often find ourselves in

situations where we want to say something

but choose to stay silent. Whether it’s standing

up for ourselves, defending a friend, sharing

an opinion, or addressing a problem, speaking

up can feel intimidating. We may worry about

being judged, ignored, or misunderstood.

However, finding our voice is one of the most

important skills we can develop.

Speaking up is not about being loud or

demanding attention. It is about having the

courage to express what matters to you. When

students speak up about issues in their schools

or communities, change can happen. When

young people share their ideas, they bring

fresh perspectives that adults may not have

considered. Every voice has value, regardless

of age.

There are also times when speaking up

The president outlined the

broader achievements of his

administration in supporting

students and borrowers,

including achieving the most

significant increases in Pell

Grants in over a decade, aimed



County’s first-ever Youth Against Hate

Task Force and also serve on the inaugural

Youth Leadership and Civic Engagement

means standing against something that is

wrong. Bullying, discrimination, and unfair

treatment often continue because people are

Advisory Board, both established through

the Urban League of Broward workshops, leadership training, and

County’s Youth Leadership and Civic community dialogue, participants

Engagement Program, formerly known learn how to recognize and respond

as the Youth Hate Crime Education to bias while promoting safer, more

and Prevention Program.

connected communities.

The program is designed to educate The students’ leadership roles extend

and empower youth to prevent biasrelated

beyond participation. The Youth

incidents, bullying, and violence Leadership and Civic Engagement

within schools and communities while Advisory Board serves as the

helping them understand how harmful program’s strategy and sustainability

attitudes and unchecked behaviors body, helping identify issues affecting

can escalate into hate crimes. Through youth, discussing community

www.thewestsidegazette.com

afraid to say something. A simple statement

of support for someone who is struggling

can make a huge difference. Speaking up

can help create a safer and more welcoming

environment for everyone.

Of course, speaking up is not always easy. It

takes confidence and practice. Sometimes your

opinion may not be popular, and sometimes

people may disagree with you. That is okay.

True growth comes from learning how to

express yourself respectfully while remaining

true to your values.

As teens, we are the future leaders, voters,

teachers, business owners, and community

members of tomorrow. The habits we build

today will shape the world we create in the

future. By speaking up, we show that our

thoughts matter and that we are willing to be

part of the solution.

Your voice is powerful. Do not be afraid to

use it. The change you want to see may begin

with one person having the courage to speak

up.

concerns, advising on solutions,

and assisting with the planning of

initiatives and events.

The Youth Against Hate Task Force

serves as the program’s action and

advocacy arm, carrying these efforts

forward through peer leadership,

awareness campaigns, community

engagement, and advocacy within

schools and neighborhoods.



College

Prep

sagacious

adjective

Word of

the Week

(adjective)

-having or showing good judgement,

keen insight, and practical wisdom

being at rest; inactive or

HOW TO USE IN A SENTENCE:

motionless; By listening to his team’s quiet; feedback still: and a

quiescent mind.

carefully analyzing the market trends, the

CEO made a sagacious business decision.

quiescent

[ kwee-es-uhnt, kwahy- ]

HOW TO USE QUIESCENT IN A

SENTENCE

It’s possible that other volcanoes with

long quiescentperiods may also have

subtle but protracted warning periods

as well.


Ain’t That A VHIT

More Jars

Needed

By Von C. Howard

There is a story in 2 Kings

4:1–7 that feels especially close

to home in this season. I was

reminded of it through a sermon

by Rev. Dr. Libya BaaQar titled

“Just Keep Pouring.” It tells of a

widow who had reached the edge

of what she could manage. Her

husband had died. Bills were due. Creditors were coming.

Her sons were at risk because she could not pay what she

owed.

When the prophet Elisha asked what she had left, her

answer was painfully honest: “Nothing… except a small jar

of oil.”

That response echoes across generations and it resonates

deeply in the lived experience of many in the Black

community. There have been times when resources were

limited, doors were closed, opportunities were delayed,

and yet life still demanded strength, provision, and

perseverance. We all know seasons of “nothing… except.”

Except a little faith passed down from elders.

Except resilience learned through hardship.

Except community that shows up when systems fall short.

Except talent and determination that refuses to die.

In the story, Elisha tells her to borrow empty jars from

neighbors, not just a few, and begin pouring her small

amount of oil into them. The oil keeps flowing until every

jar is full. It only stops when there are no more containers.

The supply did not run out. The space did.

That truth carries weight today. Historically and

presently, the Black community has often been told there

is not enough, not enough funding, access, representation,

or opportunity. Yet time and again, we have witnessed

multiplication from what seemed minimal: businesses

started at kitchen tables, movements born in living rooms

and churches, education pursued against odds, families

sustained through collective effort.

It reminds me of the familiar encouragement in the song:

“I won’t complain.” Those words reflect a quiet resolve, not

ignoring struggle, but refusing to surrender to it.

The oil has never been an issue. Capacity and access

have. The widow had to ask neighbors for jars while she

was already struggling. That took humility and connection.

Our story reflects the same principle. Progress has often

come through shared support, extended family, church

networks, mentors, historically Black institutions, and


aAAA

This Week in Health: Alzheimer’s Disease

A Short, Thoughtful Reflection on

Alzheimer’s Disease

Alzheimer’s begins quietly, often with small

lapses in short-term memory — misplaced

items, repeated questions, or difficulty

recalling recent conversations. Over time,

these changes deepen, affecting language,

judgment, orientation, and behavior. What

makes the disease especially poignant is that it

slowly alters the very abilities that help us

connect with the world and with one another.

mayoclinic.org

Biologically, Alzheimer’s is marked by the

buildup of amyloid plaques and tau tangles,

proteins that disrupt communication between

brain cells. As these changes spread, neurons

lose their connections and eventually die,

leading to the shrinking of brain regions

responsible for memory and reasoning.

mayoclinic.org

While age is the strongest known risk factor,

Alzheimer’s is not a normal part of aging.

Genetics, lifestyle, and environmental

influences also play a role. More than 6

JUNE 11 - JUNE 17, 2026• PAGE 3

Missing Black Girl, 16, Found Hanging from Tree in N.C.

By Aisha Winfrey

(Source: Los Angeles WAVE)

CHARLOTTE, N.C — A 16-year-old

Black girl who had been missing since

late April has been found dead hanging

from a tree, according to police and media

reports.

Juliana Nzita, who recently moved

to North Carolina from the Democratic

Republic of the Congo, was found earlier

this month hanging from a tree near the

United House of Prayer for All People

Church in Charlotte, police said. Her

death has been classified as a suicide.

Charlotte area resident Kenneth Tolbert said he was near the United House of

Prayer for All People Church on May 8 when he spotted what appeared to be the

body of a teenage girl hanging from a tree, Juliana Nzita who recently moved to

North Carolina from the Democratic Republic of the Congo, Nation / State, was

found earlier this month hanging from a tree near the United House of Prayer for

All People Church in Charlotte, NC.

Authorities said Nzita was reported

missing on April 28, according to the

North Carolina Beat, an independent

local news outlet. Her family searched

for her while online posts and tips spread

across social media.

Area resident Kenneth Tolbert said

he was near the church on May 8 when

he spotted what appeared to be the body

of a teenage girl hanging from a tree, the

outlet reported. Tolbert said he alerted

church members and police.

Tolbert reportedly provided video

footage showing a small blue chair under

a tree and a rope above, with the girl’s

feet still close to the ground. A church

member reportedly said the area had

been checked the day before and saw

nothing unusual.

Charlotte-Mecklenburg Police

Department records confirmed Nzita was

pronounced dead at 12:40 p.m. on May 8.

The report documented the location and

initial findings.

Investigators said they received

no response from Nzita’s family when

contacted. The church reportedly released

no public statement.

Westside Health Brief

Marsha Mullings, MPH

June 8, 2026

million Americans aged 65 and older are

currently living with the disease, a number

expected to rise as the population grows older.

mayoclinic.org

Living With Alzheimer’s

Even as abilities change, many people retain

meaningful skills — storytelling, singing,

listening to music, or enjoying art. These

preserved abilities remind us that identity and

humanity endure, even as memory shifts.

mayoclinic.org

Families and caregivers often become the

steady ground beneath a loved one’s changing

world. Support, patience, and community

resources can make an enormous difference in

maintaining dignity and connection.

Hope and Progress

Although there is no cure yet, treatments can

ease symptoms or slow decline for some

individuals. Research is advancing rapidly,

with new therapies targeting the underlying

biology of the disease and offering hope for

earlier detection and more effective care.

Healio

A Gentle Closing Thought

Alzheimer’s is a medical condition, but it is

also a human story — one of resilience,

adaptation, and the enduring power of

compassion. Understanding the disease helps

us support those who live with it, honor their

experiences, and walk beside them with

empathy and grace.

If you’d like, Marsha, I can also create a

shorter newsletter-style version or a visual to

accompany this piece.

AN INSTITUTION

Built on

Achievement.

Broward College is nationally ranked as one of the

top colleges for 2027 by the Aspen Institute.

Broward College delivers a

high-quality education that opens

doors for students and prepares

them to join the workforce.

With award-winning programs,

dedicated faculty, and a

commitment to student outcomes,

we continue to set the standard for

accessible, impactful education.

Discover what sets

Broward College apart.

broward.edu/buildyourfuture

© 2026 | Broward College does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, sex, gender, national origin, religion, age, disability, marital status, sexual orientation, gender identity, genetic information, or other legally protected classification in its programs and activities.

PAGE 4 • JUNE 11 - JUNE 17, 2026

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

Call -- (954) 525-1489


Special Invite:

A Juneteenth Celebration of Joy & Legacy

5th Annual Imagination Unchained Concert

The diva songstress Cande Rivers

Farm Share Free Drive-Thur Food Distribution, Saturday,

June 13, 2026 from 9 a.m to 12 p.m., at Torre

Fuerte Church, 7800 NW 39th St., Sunrise, FL 33351.

First-come, First-Served; while supplies last.

For more info call (954) 746-3430.

JUNE IS

BLACK

MUSIC

MONTH

STAY CONNECTED --


Follow @TheWestsideGazette Newspaper on Social Media + WATCH

episodes of the 2-Minute Warning via YT or FB

The Westside Gazette:

Strengthening Community Bonds

Through the Power of Local Journalism.


WESTSIDE

GAZETTE

NEWSPAPER STAFF

Bobby R. Henry, Sr.

PUBLISHER

Sonia Henry-Robinson

COMPTROLLER

Tawanna C. Taylor

ADMINISTRATIVE

ASST.

Pamela D. Henry

SENIOR EDITOR

Arri D. Henry

CREATIVE DIRECTOR

Carma L. Henry

COMMUNITY NEWS

EDITOR

Sylvester “Nunnie’

Robinson SPORTS

Editor

Elizabeth D. Henry

CIRCULATION

MANAGER

NoRegret Media

WEBMASTER

Carma T. Taylor

DIGITAL SPECIALIST

Eric Sears

IT SPECIALIST

Ron Lyons

PHOTOGRAPHER

Levi Henry, Jr.:

PUBLISHER (Emeritus)

Yvonne Henry: (Emetus)

WEBSITE:


Broward County’s

Largest African

American Owned and

Operated Newspaper Serving

Broward -

Mami-Dade and Palm Beach

Counties Mailing Address:

545 N.W. 7th Terrace

Fort Lauderdale, FL 33311

OFFICE (954) 525-1489

FAX: (954) 525-1861

E-MAIL ADDRESS:

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PUBLISHER

brhsr@thewestsidegazette.com

PROUD MEMBERS

OF THE:

NATIONAL

NEWSPAPER

PUBLISHERS

ASSOCIATION (NNPA)

AND FLORIDA

ASSOCIATION OF

BLACK OWNEDMEDIA

The Westside Gazette

Newspaper is Published Weekly

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Subscription Rates:

$100.00 Annual

$1.00 per copy

CREDO -The Black Press

beieves that American

best leads 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 a anyone is held back.

LETTERS TO THE

EDITOR GUIDELINES

We welcome letters from

the public. Letters must be

signed with a clearly

legible name along witha

complete address and

phone number. No

unsigned letters will be

considered for

publiction. The Westside

Gazettere serves the right

to edit letters. Letters should

be 500 words or less.

CONSPIRING

CONSTITUTIONAL

BETRAYERS

“Democracy has survived the Civil War, both world

Wars I and II, and Jan. 6, 2021, insurrectionists. Yet

again it is under attack by a lethal enemy that

the Founding Fathers feared even more; corrupt,

immoral, and conspiring constitutional betrayers.

John Johnson II 06/10/26

By John Johnson II

America’s constitutional system

design attempted to prevent the

concentration of power in any single

branch of government. Yet critics

argue that the nation is witnessing a

troubling erosion of those safeguards.

Elected officials and institutions

are increasingly placing partisan

objectives above their constitutional

responsibilities. The central question

is, “why are elected officials betraying

their constitutional oath?

According to critics, the executive branch has steadily

expanded its authority by bypassing Congress through

executive orders and emergency declarations; thus,

establishing public policy without legislative approval.

Critics point to actions involving immigration policy, federal

spending priorities, and the redirection of congressional

approved funds as examples of executive overreach. In their

view, such actions contribute to the concentration of power

in the presidency.

These concerns no longer reside only with political activists

or constitutional scholars. Polls conducted by Gallup, PBS/

NPR/Marist, The Economist/YouGov, and Fox News have

revealed growing public concern about the condition of

American democracy, declining confidence in Congress, and

falling trust in the Supreme Court. Whether one agrees

with the causes or not, the warning signs are becoming

increasingly difficult to ignore.

Observers contend that the Supreme Court’s six-member

conservative majority has increasingly functioned as a

super activist judiciary rather than as an impartial arbiter.

Critics point to the overturning of Roe v. Wade and other

longstanding precedents as evidence of a Court willing to

reshape public policy through judicial authority. They

further argue that lifetime appointments have insulated

sitting justices from meaningful accountability.

Recently, criticisms focused on Chief Justice John Roberts’

and the Court’s voting-rights decisions. Opponents argue


Broward College

Provides Education and

Opportunities for Families

By Torey Alston, President and CEO, Broward College

For generations, education

has been the single most

powerful tool for community

advancement and economic

impact. Right here in Fort

Lauderdale and across South

Florida, our African American

community understands that

a high-quality education is

the key that unlocks doors. At

Broward College, we are committed to being an institution built

on achievement, ensuring that every resident has an equitable

pathway to success.

The return on investment for a college degree remains

undeniable. Higher education expands an individual’s critical

thinking, boosts lifetime earning potential, and provides a

buffer against economic uncertainty. Furthermore, our focus on

workforce development directly strengthens the local economy.

A recent study shows Broward College generated $2.4 billion in

added income for the local economy and supported 25,621 jobs—

meaning one out of every 59 jobs in the county is connected to

Broward College, its students, and its alumni.

We are proud that the Aspen Institute has again recognized

Broward College as one of America’s leading community

colleges, naming us to the 2027 Aspen Prize Top 200. This

coveted distinction belongs to our entire community. It is

a direct result of our award-winning academic programs,

exceptional faculty, and commitment to student outcomes.

We refuse to accept the status quo; instead, we continue to set

the standard for accessible, impactful education that meets

students exactly where they are.

Whether your goal is to launch a corporate career, enter an

essential trade, or become an entrepreneur, Broward College

delivers the resources and support to make your aspirations

a reality. We are ready to help you write your next chapter of

achievement and discover what sets our institution apart.

The doors of opportunity are open for you and your family.

Visit broward.edu/excellence to learn more about our upcoming

enrollment steps and the latest about our Strategic Planning

process.

Historically Black Colleges And Universities

Have Gained Unprecedented Popularity In

Today’s Higher Education Marketplace

By James B. Ewers Jr. Ed.D.

Education was always a staple in my

neighborhood. Adults were encouraging us to

do our best each day in school. They wanted

us to achieve more than they did. Early on and

consistently, they made sure they passed that

message on to us.

My parents played the most significant role


Deeply Rooted

JUNE 11 - JUNE 17, 2026 • PAGE 5

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.

Is Anna Fusco Serving

Members or Serving Power?


For years, Anna Fusco has positioned

herself as a champion for Broward County

Public Schools employees. To many

educators and support staff, however,

there is a growing question: Is the public

image matching the reality?

Critics argue that a troubling pattern

has emerged, one in which influence,

relationships, and personal preferences

appear to matter more than fairness,

transparency, and accountability. Whether

these concerns are perception or reality, they deserve serious

examination.

Among the issues repeatedly raised by employees are

allegations of inconsistent representation, unequal treatment,

and an investigative process that some believe lacks

independence. Questions continue to surface about the role of

the district’s Special Investigative Unit (SIU), the handling of

employee disciplinary matters, and whether certain individuals

receive protection while others face disproportionate scrutiny.

Some employees have expressed concern that those who

challenge authority or speak out against leadership often find

themselves isolated, investigated, or targeted. Others point to

what they view as racial disparities in disciplinary outcomes

and decision-making. These concerns, whether proven or not,

cannot simply be dismissed if the goal is to maintain trust

among the workforces.

Equally troubling are allegations involving access to

confidential information, potential conflicts of interest, and

decisions affecting employee benefits. Critics question whether

union leadership has always acted in the best interests of the

membership as a whole or whether certain decisions have

favored a select few.

The issue is not whether one agrees or disagrees with Anna

Fusco. The issue is accountability.

Union leaders wield significant influence over the careers,

protections, benefits, and working conditions of thousands

of employees. With that influence comes a responsibility to

operate transparently, fairly, and without favoritism. When

questions arise, they should be answered openly rather than

ignored.

Many educators have dedicated their lives to serving

students. They deserve confidence that the systems designed

to protect them are operating with integrity. They deserve

to know that investigations are impartial, representation is

equitable, and leadership decisions are made for the benefit of

all members not a favored few.

This is not a call for personal attacks. It is a call for

transparency. It is a call for accountability. And it is a call for

employees, union members, and district leadership alike to

ensure that power is exercised responsibly and fairly.

The strongest organizations are not those that avoid

scrutiny. They are those willing to welcome it.

If employees have concerns, they should document them,

report them through appropriate channels, and insist on

transparency. Accountability is not an act of disloyalty it is an

act of stewardship.

Frankly Speaking

While they draw, let us erase,

If ands and buts were candy and nuts every

day would be Christmas.

If the SIAC, SWAC, MEAC, and CIAA

had the Alumni Association support that

SEC,ACC, Gulf South, Big 12 and the

Southern Conference had, they would only

see Black Athletes on ESPN highlights.

If only we could draw our best, brightest

,fastest, or strongest student athletes like

they draw voting districts, we would be the

better for it.

In this space called NIL and transfer portals, it’s a hard sell

talking to our some of our young people about social conscientiousness,

civic responsibility and pride.

Family dynamics are changed tremendously because of the millions

that can be realized by putting their skills to work for PWIs

and other predominantly white institutions and here’s a teachable

moment for us HBCU graduates.

Can you imagine how our already elite programs would flourish

with the same amount of support?

Every HBCU football game would be a Classic, a Bowl and a

Ball!

They want to take back our voice and our vote, why don’t we

delay their victories?

Roll up the Tide, Shut up the Bulldog , Take the Yellow Jackets

sting, Tame the Gator, and extinguish the flames on the Seminoles

arrows and Cage the Auburn Tiger.

If we don’t show our value, they will never appreciate our worth.

Athletic victories coupled with social injustices are shallow at

best.

You can run on a field in a district where you can’t vote?

You can shoot in an arena that’s a voting precinct that does not

represent you?

Make this make sense!

By Sidney Plotkin & Bill Scheuerman

A MESSAGE FROM

THE PUBLISHER (FP)

The American Plan and the 2026 Elections

Woody Guthrie proudly sang “This land is your land, this land is my land

/ From California to the New York island,” but, in fact, the conversion of

vast public resources and wealth to private property is one of the defining

dynamics of American history. The political economist Thorstein Veblen

called this process “The American Plan:” the conversion of public resources

into private hands as fast as possible.

It started with the “legal seizure” of native lands and resources. Then in the last century the

federal government began giving away our information highways. New technology, same result.

Far from promoting the growth of democracy, the American Plan has consolidated wealth and

power in the hands of a few. Not surprisingly, the rich regularly convert their private wealth

into political power by buying (or renting) politicians and manipulating public opinion, a process

the SCOTUS has the gall to call “free speech.” Thanks to Roberts

court gutting of the last vestiges of limits on campaign spending

and the concentration of media in the hands of a few billionaires,

whom I have the utmost

respect for. He is a leader

and well-known political

figure in our community for

his fairness. I quietly said,

“Now that dinner is over,

let me ask you about the

real elephant in the room.”

He looked surprised and

asked, “What elephant?”

I replied, “Congressional

District 20.”

Immediately, he

acknowledged the issue

and shared that he had

already pledged his support

to a particular candidate.

Then he mentioned another

candidate whom he seemed

to believe represented

the choice of the Black

community.

His comment caught me

by surprise.

To my knowledge, there

had been no official poll

of the Black community.

No broad consensus had

been reached. No collective

decision had been made. Yet

somehow, an assumption

had emerged that a

particular candidate had

already been designated as

the community’s preferred

choice.

I responded with a

simple analogy.

“I would never tell the

opposing team not to put its

best player in the game,” I

said. “But I also would not

assume that my team has

already selected its captain

simply because someone

outside the locker room

says so.”

That brief exchange

reminded me of a larger

truth.

Too often, decisions

affecting communities are

made without the difficult

conversations that should

precede them. Assumptions

replace dialogue. Narratives

replace listening. Labels

replace understanding.

What made this

conversation meaningful

was not the subject itself,

but the setting. I waited

until dinner was over.

There were no microphones,

no social media posts, no

audience to impress. Just

two people willing to briefly

engage honestly about an

issue that carries deep

emotions and significant

consequences.

That is what we are

missing in America today.

Whether

the

conversation is between

Blacks and Jews, Haitians

and Jamaicans, Cubans and

Mexicans, conservatives

and liberals, members of

the LGBTQ+ community

and those who disagree

with them, or any other

group, we cannot move

forward if we refuse to talk

openly and honestly with

one another.

Not everyone needs

to be in every room.

But every room where

decisions are being shaped

should include voices that

genuinely represent those

who will be affected.

The reality is that

progress is rarely achieved

through silence. It is

built through courageous





PAGE 6 • JUNE 11 - JUNE 17, 2026

BUSINESS

UNITY IN THE

COMMUNITY DIRECTORY

Deeply Rooted

40 Years of Service: Honoring Two

Broward County Leaders Who

Help Keep the County Moving


David M.

Wright

Independent Health

Insurance Agent

Broward Count Vice Mayor Robert McKinzie, Mary

Hall and her mother, La’Rika Hall (daughter) and

Commissioner Lamar Fisher.

Licensed to sell:

LIFE, HEALTH

& WEALTH

(954) 257-1783

rightnowresources@gmail.com

www.wrightnowresources.com

Cell Phones For Soldiers

Program Provides Free

Smartphones to Veterans

133 N. State Road 7

Plantation, Fla. 33317

(Corner of Broward Blvd. & State Rd. 7

(954) 587-7075

FRED LOVELL, Lic. Opt.

(Over 30 Years in Optics)

SOE Joe Scott and Chief

Deputy Mary Hall.

Assistant Director of

Operations Conrad Strong.

* $29.50 - Single Vision

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arenamedicalgroup.com

Joseph J. Arena, M.D.

Internal Medicine

drarena@arenamedialgroup.com

FRANCINE

Your Tailor

Alterations For

Men & Women & Kids

Cell: (754) 274-8537

A: 784 NW 91st Terrace,

Plantation, FL 33324

P: (954) 715-3334

F: (954) 715-3003

:(407) 413-1328

Broward County Administrator Monica Cepero,

Broward Mayor Commissioner Mark Bogen, Ricardo

Charlton-Director of Operations, Conrad Strong-

Assistant Director of Operations, Natalie Strong-Davis-

Daughter, Sonia Allen-Administrator Coordinator, Peg

Buchan-Administrative Manager.

By Staff Writer

Four decades of service is a remarkable achievement in any

profession. It represents commitment, perseverance, leadership,

and a dedication to serving others that spans generations.

Broward County is fortunate to have two outstanding public

servants whose careers exemplify those qualities: Chief Deputy

Mary Hall of the Broward County Supervisor of Elections Office

and Conrad Strong, Assistant Director of Operations at Port

Everglades.

Though their careers have taken different paths, both

individuals share a common thread, a commitment to excellence

and a willingness to grow, lead, and serve their community

with distinction.

Mary Hall: A Lifetime Dedicated to Protecting Democracy

While Strong was helping move commerce through Broward

County’s seaport, Mary Hall was building a distinguished career

dedicated to protecting one of our nation’s most important

institutions—the right to vote.

Chief Deputy Mary Hall began her career with the Broward

County Supervisor of Elections Office in 1986. During nearly

40 years of service, she has gained extensive knowledge and

experience in every aspect of election administration and

operations.

Her commitment to excellence has helped foster strong

professional relationships throughout Broward County and

beyond. As elections have evolved through technological

advancements, changing laws, and growing voter populations,

Hall has remained a steady and trusted leader helping guide

the agency through each transition.

Known for her dedication to community engagement,

diversity, inclusion, and public trust, Hall has consistently

worked to ensure that Broward County’s electoral process

remains accessible, fair, transparent, and secure. Her leadership

reflects an unwavering commitment to safeguarding democracy

while serving voters with professionalism and integrity.

For nearly four decades, she has witnessed the evolution of

election administration firsthand and has played an important

role in shaping the success of the agency and the confidence

voters place in it today.

Conrad Strong: From Line Handler; Harbor Master to

Port Leadership

Conrad Strong’s career at Port Everglades is a true example

of hard work and determination. Beginning his career as

a line handler, Strong learned the maritime industry from

the ground up. A line handler plays a critical role in port

operations, responsible for safely mooring and unmooring

vessels, managing heavy mooring lines, coordinating with ship

crews and port personnel, inspecting equipment, and helping

ensure the safe and efficient movement of ships entering and

leaving port.

The position requires technical skill, constant attention to

safety, and teamwork. Every successful docking and departure

depends on professionals like Strong who understand the

importance of precision and reliability.

Over the years, Strong steadily climbed the ladder of


Army Veteran Sharmaynne L. Thomas waits patiently as

Rosalie Kolesar registers the AT&T smart phone she’s

about to receive at the Miami VA.

By Jimmie Davis

Members of the U.S. Armed Forces help safeguard the

freedoms Americans enjoy every day. In return, programs

such as Cell Phones For Soldiers provide meaningful support

to veterans in need by ensuring they have access to reliable

communication.

Cell Phones For Soldiers is a national nonprofit organization

that has partnered with AT&T to provide free communication

services and emergency funding to deployed troops and

veterans.

Army veteran Sharmaynne L. Thomas, who sustained

injuries that left her disabled and dependent on a service

dog, was among the recipients of a free smartphone during a

recent distribution event at the Bruce W. Carter Department

of Veterans Affairs Medical Center in Miami.

Thomas, who is currently unemployed, learned about the

program and came to the Miami VA to receive her new AT&T

smartphone.

“I’m very delighted to get a new phone because I need it for

communication,” Thomas said during the giveaway held in the

auditorium on the second floor. “It’s a bill that I don’t have to

pay because I’m in school studying to be a teacher.”

Thomas also volunteers through the VA, helping train

service dogs for veterans suffering from Post-Traumatic Stress

Disorder (PTSD).

While AT&T is not the official network of the U.S.

Department of Defense, the company maintains a strong

presence on military installations nationwide. Its network

serves as the backbone for the Cell Phones For Soldiers Mobile

program, which provides free smartphones and service plans to

low-income and homeless veterans.

Army veteran Joy Allington, president of the Broward

Veterans Coalition, in partnership with the Florida Veterans


New CFPB rule turns its back

on fair housing

Housing advocates sue to preserve enforcement

By Charlene Crowell

For more than 50 years, the Equal Credit Opportunity

Act (ECOA) has been an effective federal safeguard to ensure

that Black, Latino, Native Americans and other economically

marginalized people have fair access to safe and affordable

credit. Enacted with bipartisan support in Congress and signed

into law by President Gerald Ford in 1974, ECOA has been a

legal backbone in the fight against financial discrimination for

literally millions of qualified borrowers.

But this April, the agency created to be the nation’s


Photo Credit: National Fair Housing Alliance


CHURCH DIRECTORY

Bethel A.M.E. Church

Dr. Micah C.T. Sims, Senior Pastor & Servant Leader

405 NW ESTHER ROLLE (3rd) AVENUE

POMPANO BEACH, FL 33060

email: bethelmepompano@gmail.com

Church Office Hours: Tuesday- Thursday 10 a.m. to 4 pm

SUNDAY WORSHIP ........10AM

TUESDAY BIBLE STUDY....... 7PM

CHRIST

Zoom ID 7066533918

bethelpompano.org

COMMUNITY

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

CULTURE

CHURCH ANNOUCEMENTS

NEW BETHEL A.M.E. CHURCH

959 DELLA TOBIAS AVE., CLEWISTON, FL

Reverend Clarence Honor and

First Lady Charlann

Jackson Honors, Esq.

SUNDAY WORSHIP

SERVICE..... 10:00 a.m.

MEETING ID 7871410293

PASS CODE bethel2

TUESDAY NIGHTS BIBLE STUDY ..............

6:00 p.m.

Zion Rest Church of God by Faith,

Inc. ~ Miami District

Elder Jimmy McDuffie, Pastor

2889 NW 6th Court

Fort Lauderdale, Florida 33311

Cornell Hampton Administrative Assistant (954) 687-5766

Service Times:

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

Sunday Morning Worship...........11:30 AM

Tuesday Night Prayer...............8:00 PM

Thursday Night Bible Study.......... via Zoom

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!

Deeply Rooted

Have Your Church Announcements Placed

In Our Church Directory

Mount Nebo Missionary Baptist Church

Rev. Danny L. McKenzie, Sr., Senior Pastor

2251 N.W. 22nd St., Fort Lauderdale, FL 33311

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

Church: (954) 733-3285 - Office: (954) 733-3606

Email: mountnebobaptist@bellsouth.net

Website: www.mountnebaptist.org

SCHEDULE OF SERVICES

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

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

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

"A Great Place To Worship"

Celebrating 100 Years of Blessing!! 1925-2025

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.

"I can do all things through Christ who gives me strength"

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

St. Ruth Missionsary Baptist Church

Pastor & First Lady Anthony R. Manuel

145 NW 5th Avenue

Dania Beach, FL 33004

(954) 922-2529

www.strmbc@att.net

WORSHIP SERVICES

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

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

Wednesday (Noon Day Prayer) ..................12 Noon

Wednesday Night Bible Study ...............7:00 PM

Website: www.struthmbc.org

"Celebrating 118 Years of Service"

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!

JUNE 11 - JUNE 17, 2026 • PAGE 7

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 PROVIDE Ministries that matter Today to Whole Body of Christ,

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

Pastor David E. Deal, Jr.

“Celebrating over 85 Years of FAITH and FAVOR!

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

Williams Memorial C.M.E. Church

646 NW 13th Terrace


Phone: (954) 488-0079 Email: wmcmecfl@gmail.com

Website: www.wmsfl.org

Reverend Gloria W. Dixon, Pastor

Email: gdixon5 @ bellsouth.net

WORSHIP SERVICES & BIBLE STUDY

In person, via Zoom; ID: 954-462-8222, 646-558-8636

Stream Facebook Live @ WMCMECHURCH

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

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

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

Tuesday Prayer Meeting......................7:30 PM

"Celebrating Over 100 years of Service"

Every Christian's Church

SUNDAY @11:00 am

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

Bible Trivia

‘Test Your Bible Knowledge'

1) What did the eleven remaining disciples decide to

do about the lost of the twelve one, Judas?

2) What was the second miracle Jesus performed in

Galilee?

3) How many books in the New Testament did Paul

write?

4) What is Theology?

5) Can you name four attributes of God?

6) What is Soteriology?

7) What Book in the Bible you would turn to if you

wanted to find “Two people struck dead from lying to the

church?

8) What Book in the Bible you would turn to if you

wanted to find ”Faith without works is dead?

***Bible fact – Did you know that while running from

Saul, David pretended to be crazy as he ran into the enemy’s

clutches (Philistines) This act saved him from the

wrath of Saul. (1st Sam. 21:12-15).

Answers – 1) Acts 1:24-26; 2) John 4:43-54; 3) 13 books,

although some feels that Paul authored 14 books; 4) The

study of God; 5) Immutability, omnipresence, omniscient,

omnipotent; 6) The study of Salvation; 7) Acts 5:1-10; 8)

James 2:20

Southern University Gospel Choir

in final 5 nominees for national

HBCU Choir of the Year award

By Shaun White

(Source: HBCU News)

The Southern University

Gospel Choir has made it to

the final five nominees for the

Stellar Gospel Music Awards’

first-ever HBCU Choir of the

Year.

The category is the first

Historically Black Colleges

and Universities gospel choir

award to be offered at the

Stellar Awards.

“What began as a dream,

a prayer, and countless

hours of dedication has

become a testimony of God’s

faithfulness. We are beyond

grateful for every vote, every

share, every prayer, and every

person who has supported

this journey,” the Southern

University Gospel Choir said

on social media.

The winner will be named

at the 41st Annual Stellar

Gospel Music Awards on

Aug. 15 in Charlotte, North

Carolina.

PAGE 8 • JUNE 11 - JUNE 17, 2026

A Century of Faith, Family, and

Resilience: Celebrating 100 Years of

Olivia Ballard

Deeply Rooted


Obituaries

Death and Funeral Notices

VIEW OBITUARIES ONLINE


Announcements:

*In Memoriam *Death Notices *Happy Birthdays

*Card of Thanks *Remembrances

(954) 525-1489

Floyd

Edward

Brimage, Sr.

Celebrating

the Life June

6 at Church

of the Lord

Jesus Christ

of the

Apostolic Faitgt, Bishop

Omega Shelton, Pastor &

General Overseer.

Tryone L.

Gladon

Celebration

Of Life was

held May 30 th

at McWhite’s

Funeral

Home

Chapel.

Jo Ann

Hunter -81

Celebration

Of Life was

held May 29 th

atMcWhite’s

Funeral

Home

Chapel.

On June 11, 2026, family, friends, and loved ones will

gather to celebrate an extraordinary milestone as Mrs. Olivia

Ballard turns 100 years old. Reaching a century of life is a

rare blessing, and for Mrs. Ballard, it is a testament to a life

defined by faith, perseverance, hard work, and unwavering

love for family.

Born on June 11, 1926, in Glen Allan, Mississippi, Olivia

Ballard came of age during a time of great challenges and

limited opportunities. With only an eighth-grade education,

she learned early the value of determination and sacrifice.

As a young woman, she worked as a sharecropper, spending

countless hours picking cotton to help support her family.

Those humble beginnings shaped a work ethic and strength

of character that would remain with her throughout her life.

After relocating to South Florida, Mrs. Ballard transformed

adversity into opportunity, becoming an entrepreneur whose

name became synonymous with hard work, persistence, and

resilience. Her journey serves as an inspiration to all who

know her, proving that success is not measured by formal

education but by determination, vision, and a willingness to

persevere.

At the center of her life has always been her faith. A devoted

member of Mount Olive Baptist Church, Mrs. Ballard has

faithfully served God and her community for many years.

Her deep spiritual foundation has guided her through life’s

triumphs and challenges, providing strength, wisdom, and

hope.

Mrs. Ballard shared a loving marriage with her husband,

Mr. John Harris, and together they built a family legacy

that continues to flourish today. As the proud mother of ten

children, she dedicated her life to nurturing, teaching, and

supporting her family. Her influence extends far beyond her

children, reaching 48 grandchildren and an astounding 120

great-grandchildren.

Through the generations, she has instilled values of

faith, respect, integrity, perseverance, and family unity.

Her lessons, often taught through example rather than

words, continue to shape the lives of those who follow in her

footsteps.

As she celebrates her 100th birthday, Mrs. Olivia Ballard

Harris stands as a living testament to God’s grace and favor.

Her century-long journey reflects the strength of a woman

who overcame obstacles, embraced opportunities, and

dedicated herself to faith and family.

Today, we honor and celebrate a beloved matriarch whose

life has touched countless hearts. Her story reminds us that

true wealth is measured not in possessions, but in the lives

we influence, the love we share, and the legacy we leave

behind.

Happy 100th Birthday, Mrs. Olivia Ballard Harris. May

your remarkable life continue to inspire generations to come,

and may God continue to bless you with His abundant love

and grace.

Alana

Deanne

Jones – 41

Forever In

Our Hearts

Celebration

was held

June 6 at

James C.

Boyd Funeral Home.

Solomon Job

McCogg – 49

Funeral

Service

was held

June 8 th

at James

C. Boyd’s

Funeral

Home Chapel.

Ms. Robbie

Nell Vinson –

84

Celebration

Of Life

was held June

6 at James

C. Boyd’s

Memorial

Chapel with Rev. Henry E.

Green, III officiating

McWhite’s Funeral Home

Beverly Ellis -

Forever In

Our Hearts

Joel D.

Lumpkins – 79

In Loving

Memory

was held

May 30 th at

New Mount

Olive Baptist

Church.

Eugene

Augustus

Patrick – 86

Thanksgiving

Service

was held

on May 28 th

McWhite’s

Funeral Home

Chapel with

Min. Jimmie Witherspoon

officiating.

Joan Mack

Sinvil – 81

Celebration

Of Life

was held

May 30 th at

McWhite’s

Funeral

Home

Chapel.

Donna Faye

Story

Forever In

Our Hearts

Roy Mizell & Kurtz

Funeral Home

Gospel music

rthyhms are not

African in

origin, although

I know that's

what the jazz

experts says.

- Mahalia Jackon-

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

JUNE

IS BLACK

MUSIC

MONTH

Deloris W.

Gallon – 75

Celebration

Of Life

was held

June 6 at

New Hope

Baptist

Church with

Pastor Ricky

Scott officiating.

For the

LORD

knows

the way

of the

righteous,

but the

way of

the wicked

will perish

Psalm 1:6

Modified:

Release: 03/18/26

Region: US

Language: English

Producer

Emma Manola

Studio Artist

Traci Filut


EVERY EFFORT HAS BEEN MADE TO ENSURE COMPLETE AND ACCURATE INFORMATION; BUT ERRORS MAY OCCUR. PLEASE CHECK THIS FILE CAREFULLY. NOT TO BE USED FOR COLOR APPROVAL.

Deeply Rooted

T:13.25"

JUNE 11 - JUNE 17, 2026 • PAGE 9

T:21.25"

PAGE 10 • JUNE 11 - JUNE 17, 2026

Deeply Rooted

Black unemployment slightly dips as

Trump vows to bring back ‘Black jobs.’ But

the numbers aren’t what they seem

“If the President wants to improve the Black jobless rate, he needs to stop firing federal workers,” Gbenga

Ajilore, chief economist at the Center on Budget and Policy Priorities, told TheGrio

By Gerren Keith Gaynor

(Source: thegrio)

After President Donald

Trump recently told theGrio

his policies are bringing

back “Black jobs,” the

new jobs report for May

shows that while the Black

unemployment rate has

slightly declined, it remains

disproportionately high

compared to the national rate

and rates of other racial or

ethnic groups.

According to the U.S.

Bureau of Labor Statistics, in

May, the Black unemployment

rate modestly dipped to 6.6%

after reaching 7.3% a month

prior. That is higher than

the national unemployment

rate (4.3%), the white

unemployment rate (3.8%),

the Asian unemployment

rate (3.8%), and the Hispanic

unemployment rate (5.0%).

The slight decline in

the jobless rate for Black

Americans comes after

President Trump told theGrio

a day before the job numbers

were to be released that, “We

HELP WANTED

saw some numbers that we’re

doing really well.”

“We’re doing very well

with the Black jobs, African-

American jobs,” the president

said inside the Oval Office,

where he announced a $700

million federal investment in

coal plants.

Despite the appearance of

a positive shift in the job

market for Black workers,

Gbenga Ajilore, chief

economist at the Center on

Budget and Policy Priorities,

told theGrio that the drop in

Black unemployment was

“driven by a drop in labor

force participation more

than a gain in employment.”

In other words, more Black

workers aren’t being hired;

they’re simply opting out of

the job search.

As theGrio previously

reported, Black Americans

have acutely suffered in

Trump’s economy as a result

of the confluence of his

policies, most notably attacks

on DEI and the slashing of

the federal workforce.

“If the President wants

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“President Donald Trump has pointed to employment gains among

Black workers as evidence of the effectiveness of his economic

policies. Economists and policymakers continue to debate the factors

influencing Black unemployment rates.”

to improve the Black jobless

rate, he needs to stop firing

federal workers,” Ajilore told

theGrio, adding, “The federal

government has been the best

place for Black workers for

over 80 years.”

Many Black Americans

have been able to thrive in

the middle class as a result

of high federal employment,

particularly in non-political

civil service jobs. However,

the Trump administration’s

efforts to shrink the federal

government in the name of socalled

“waste and fraud” have

specifically targeted these

once-protected and coveted

positions.

“Going to Schedule F is

definitely not going to help

either,” said Ajilore, referring

to an executive order Trump

signed on Tuesday that strips

protections for 8,000 federal

workers, making them “atwill”

employees, making it

easier for the government to

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SPORTS

Nunnie on the Sideline

By Nunnie Robinson, WG Sports Editor

Sports is wonderful outlet for fans, aspiring

amateur and professional athletes

and entrepreneurs alike. The calvacade of

sporting events from college baseball and

softball, track & field and spring football

to the MLB, horse racing, the WNBA, the

UFL, the World Cup, et. al, is a thing of

beauty, a sort of Sportsman Paradise.

So why did I become so unnervingly despondent

after watching the Auburn football

team in spring practice on the SEC

Network, led by first year coach Alex Golesh.

An inordinate number of players are

Black Americans. Then hearing - since I

despise any communique coming from the Oval Office - about

47’s meltdown and despicable treatment of Kristan Welker on

Meet the Press, the unjust wars in Ukraine and the Middle

East, sports can no longer be treated in isolation as if the world

is perfectly normal.

And I haven’t even mentioned the most exciting and competitive

playoffs in recent memory - and NO, I’m not speaking

of the Knicks/Spurs! I am referring to the NHL Stanley Cup

Finals featuring the Carolina Hurricanes and the Las Vegas

Knights, compelling even for casual hockey fans. The Knights

hold a 2-1 series lead after scoring the first 4 points in game

three, only to have the Hurricanes comeback, tie the game 4-4,

then lose in overtime 5-4.

Meanwhile, game three in Madison Square Garden, a must

win for San Antonio, became a series again as the Spurs defeated

the Knicks 115- 111, continuing the run of road team

victories. Before Tuesday night’s defeat, the Knicks had won

13 consecutive games after sweeping Toronto and Cleveland.

Help me make sense of this. Virginia approved of new redistricting

maps only to have them nullified by SCOTUS, which

summarily ruled in favor of every confederate gerrymandered

power grab. I surmise this: SCOTUS, Congress, the Senate and

45-47 supporters are all racist conspirators and traitors to the

constitution and democracy.

And we’re - all people of good conscience who believe in this

250 year democratic experiment - are to just shut up and dribble

as a Fox newscaster infamously instructed LeBron James.

I DON’T THINK SO!!! I do, however, implore everyone to render

this monstrosity of an administration weak and powerless

by taking back both the House and the Senate by voting in

these midterm elections. It is our civic duty and responsibility

to right this corrupt government.

On Saturday Golden Tempo, after sitting out the Preakness,

won the Belmont Stakes, making trainer Cherie DeVeau the

first female trainer to accomplish that feat.

In Major League Baseball our Miami Marlins presently sit in

fourth place in the NL East division with a 31-34 record, continuing

its upward trajectory as a competitive team.

The WNBA’s popularity continues to rise as superstars like

A’ja Wilson, Angel Reese, Caitlin Clark and Breanna Stewart

demonstrate their superior skills as they lead their teams to a

potential title.

As the sports community prepares for the most popular event

internationally, the World Cup, our conniving Congress has

passed the SAVE Act, designed to deny millions of Americans

the right to vote, tactics used post Civil War Reconstruction.

They are evil personified, hiding under the guise of conservatism.

Polisports becomes increasingly tasteless and intolerable.

VLOIR : Vote Like Obama Is Running!!!!!!

Local Sports: where talent

meets opportunity and

community Pride.

Deeply Rooted

Venus Williams Calls a

Sabalenka Exit a Tragedy

ROLLING OUT — Crucially, Williams did not

read the comment as a real farewell. She said

she did not believe Sabalenka truly wanted to

leave, calling such an outcome a loss for both

the player and the sport.

Venus Williams at Taste pf Tennis New York 2015.

Ayssports / Wikimedia Commons.

The seven-time major champion read frustration, not a

real goodbye, in the world No. 1’s words

By David Kesiena

(Source: Rolling Out)

When the world’s top-ranked player said she wanted to

walk away from the sport, Venus Williams chose empathy over

alarm.

Aryna Sabalenka’s blunt remark after her French Open

quarterfinal collapse rattled plenty of fans, but Williams

heard something different in it. The seven-time Grand Slam

champion treated the comment as the raw reaction of a hurting

athlete rather than a serious signal about her future.

The collapse that triggered the comment

Sabalenka looked headed for a routine win over Diana

Shnaider. She took the opening set 6-3 and built a commanding

lead in the second, climbing to 4-1 and later serving for the

match at 5-4 while sitting just two points from victory.

Then everything unraveled. Shnaider stormed back to steal

the second set 7-5 and bageled the world No. 1 in the third,

with Sabalenka dropping 12 of the final 13 games in gusty

conditions that reached around 26 mph. The 3-6, 7-5, 6-0 result

sent Shnaider into her first Grand Slam semifinal and extended

Sabalenka’s long wait for a maiden Roland Garros title.


Photo: Minority Prospects

Minority Prospects HBCU

All-Star Game roster released

By HBCU Sports

(Source: HBCU Sports)

The spotlight will shine on some of the best baseball and

softball talent in HBCU athletics this weekend as the sixth

annual Minority Prospects HBCU All-Star Game returns to

Charlotte, North Carolina.


By HBCU Sports

(Source: HBCU Sports)

JUNE 11 - JUNE 17, 2026 • PAGE 11

Six HBCU icons take place in Black

College Football Hall of Fame

The Black College Football Hall of Fame celebrated its 17th

annual induction ceremony Friday night at the College Football

Hall of Fame in Atlanta, honoring a distinguished Class

of 2026 that reflects the legacy and impact of HBCU football.

Among those inducted were Alabama State head coach Eddie

Robinson Jr. and Fort Valley State great Tyrone Poole, joining

a class that also included former NFL standouts Nick Collins

of Bethune-Cookman and Jimmy Smith of Jackson State. Howard

University alumnus and longtime media contributor Steve

Wyche was recognized for his contributions to the game, while

legendary Florida A&M coach Rudy Hubbard was honored for

his coaching career.

The induction ceremony remains the signature event of the

Hall of Fame, bringing together former players, coaches, and

contributors in a celebration of HBCU football excellence.

Here is the event from their perspective.

2026 World Cup is Here

and Atlanta is Ready For It

ROLLING OUT — The tournament is the largest in World

Cup history, featuring 48 teams divided into 12 four-team

groups. Thirty-two teams will advance to the knockout stage,

with the top two finishers from each group joined by the eight

best third-place teams. The final will be played July 19 at

MetLife Stadium in East Rutherford, New Jersey.

The largest World Cup in history spreads across 16 cities

in the United States, Canada and Mexico.

By Gesi Lloyd

(Source: Rolling Out)

The 2026 FIFA World Cup begins June 11 and runs through

July 19 across host cities in the United States, Canada and

Mexico, with Atlanta serving as one of 11 American venues.

Mercedes-Benz Stadium will host eight matches, opening

with Spain against Cabo Verde on June 15 and closing with a

semifinal on July 15.

The tournament is the largest in World Cup history,

featuring 48 teams divided into 12 four-team groups. Thirtytwo

teams will advance to the knockout stage, with the top two

finishers from each group joined by the eight best third-place

teams. The final will be played July 19 at MetLife Stadium in

East Rutherford, New Jersey.


NPA.iStockphoto / NNPA.

PAGE 12 • JUNE 11 - JUNE 17, 2026

Deeply Rooted


Traditions

are best

shared.

We honor the many ways legacy is

passed down and preserved, from

cherished recipes and timeless

wisdom to the moments that

become unforgettable memories.

“These foods remind me of my mom’s

family traditions and growing up.

It’s a way to feel close to my heritage.”

– Christina S., Georgia

“Culture grounds us. It tells us where

we come from, shapes how we see

the world, and gives us a sense of

pride and belonging no matter

where we go. Without it, we lose the

thread that ties generations together.”

– S. Daley, Florida

“Traditions can live on for many

generations. It’s how we connect

back to those who had us in mind

when they established the traditions.”

– Erica, Georgia

The Westside Gazette

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