NJG | Vol. 124, No. 16 - April 18, 2024

NEWJOURNAL & GUIDE NEW JOURNAL & GUIDE

VIRGINIA HOUSE SPEAKER TO KEYNOTE NSU’S 112TH COMMENCEMENT

NSU NEWSROOM

Del. Don Scott (D-88th District), who became the first Black House speaker in the Virginia Legislature’s 400-year history, will deliver the keynote address to nearly 600 graduating students at Norfolk State University’s Commencement Ceremony.

The 112th Commencement is scheduled for 9 a.m., Saturday, May 4, 2024, at William “Dick” Price Stadium.

Del. Don Scott

Speaker Scott, first elected as a delegate representing the people of Portsmouth in 2019, became Speaker earlier this year. In the legislature, his priorities include strengthening Virginia’s public schools, improving healthcare quality and affordability, and criminal justice reform. Don Scott was born and raised in Houston, Texas. He was one of six children, raised by a single mother. Even with few resources, he performed well in school and eventually enrolled in an aerodynamics magnet program at a Houstonarea high school. Speaker Scott was accepted to and graduated from Texas A&M University. From there, he enrolled in the Navy’s Officer Candidate School in Rhode Island. He proudly served his country as an officer in the United States Navy before earning his law degree from Louisiana State University. In 2005, he landed his big break in Portsmouth, Virginia with KRA Corporation, a workforce development company. Speaker Scott quickly climbed the ladder to the number three post in the company, attributing his meteoric rise to a love of helping others maximize their potential.

OJ’S

RECENT

The NSU Spring Commencement is scheduled for 9 a.m., Saturday, May 4, 2024, at William “Dick” Price Stadium

In 2015, Speaker Scott started his own law practice before becoming a partner at Breit Biniazan P.C. He now serves his clients as a personal injury attorney and serves his community as an active member of several boards and commissions.

see NSU, page 3A

DEATH

HIGHLIGHTS PROSTATE CANCER AND BLACK MEN

By Stacy M. Brown Senior National Correspondent @StacyBrownMedia

NNPA NEWSWIRE

O.J. Simpson, a towering figure in both the sports world and the annals of American legal history, lost his battle with cancer at the age of 76. His family confirmed his death in a statement issued early on Thursday, April 11.

“On April 10, our father, Orenthal James Simpson, succumbed to his battle with cancer,” read the statement shared by Simpson’s family. “He was surrounded by his children and grandchildren.”

(New Journal and Guide’s Update To This

NNPA Newswire Story: Subsequent news reports have disclosed that Simpson was diagnosed with prostate cancer, which is the second-leading cause of cancer deaths, according to the American Cancer

Simpson’s life story was a blend of unparalleled athletic achievement and enduring controversy.

Association.)

against rival UCLA, solidified his status as one of the most electrifying athletes of his era. Simpson’s professional career initially experienced difficulties after the Buffalo Bills selected him with the first overall pick in the 1969 NFL draft. However, under the guidance of coach Lou Saban, he flourished, achieving feats that would etch his name in football history. see Simpson, page 2A O.J. Simpson

Simpson’s life story, a blend of unparalleled athletic achievement and enduring controversy, began in San Francisco, California, on July 9, 1947. His rise to prominence began at the University of Southern California (USC), where his prowess as a college football star catapulted him into the national spotlight. His remarkable talent on the field, including a legendary game-winning touchdown

U.S. HOUSE’S DEI OFFICE DISBANDED BY GOP LAWMAKERS

WASHINGTON, D.C.

The U.S. House Office of Diversity and Inclusion has been disbanded and replaced by the newly formed “Office of Talent Management” under the Office of the Chief Administrative Officer.

The action was included in the government’s recent spending bill, Sesha Joi Moon, Director, told CNN in late March, and is another effort by critics and Republican lawmakers to eliminate DEI programs and initiatives across the country.

workforce that reflected the country’s vast tapestry,” Moon, a native of Richmond, Va., said.

By Stacy M. Brown Senior

The office was first formed in March 2020 to create a congressional workforce that reflected the makeup of the nation. Its former website reported the key duties of the department included financial management, candidate services, member services, research and data analytics and professional development.

“On behalf of ODI, it has been an honor to help ensure that the United States Congress embodied a qualified and representative

In a joint statement members of various legislative staff organizations said they were “disheartened” by the loss of the Office of Diversity and Inclusion which “played a pivotal role in increasing diversity in Congress.”

“Unfortunately, the politicization of Diversity,

Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) initiatives has led to those resources being stripped away from Capitol Hill staff despite their impact,” the statement said. “Eradicating efforts that promote diversity and inclusion could reduce opportunities for staffers of color, creating further barriers to representation in a body that already does not adequately reflect the diversity of the country it represents.”

The

led to the collapse of Baltimore’s Francis Scott Key Bridge. The FBI and the US Coast Guard are spearheading the inquiry to determine if the crew neglected to report a prior issue with the vessel, which could have contributed to the tragic incident. The bridge collapsed around

1:30 a.m. on

Correspondent @StacyBrownMedia NNPA NEWSWIRE Fifty years ago, the sports world watched in awe as Hank Aaron shattered baseball’s most hallowed record, cementing his place as one of the game’s greatest legends. To celebrate the anniversary of that historic moment, the National Baseball Hall of Fame and Museum plans to immortalize Aaron’s legacy with a monumental tribute. In conjunction with the opening events for the new exhibit, “More Than Brave: The Life of Henry Aaron,” at the Atlanta History Center, Hall of Fame Chairman of the Board Jane Forbes Clark announced plans to unveil a bronze statue of Aaron at the National Baseball Hall of Fame in Cooperstown (New York) on May 23. The statue honors Aaron’s remarkable contributions both on and off the field. “Hank Aaron’s impact transcended the game of baseball,” Clark stated. “His philanthropy, advocacy for youth empowerment, and trailblazing achievements as an executive have left an indelible mark on society. see Aaron, page 3A

collision resulted in the deaths of six construction workers who were repairing potholes on the bridge and fell into the Patapsco River below.

National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) said it has been actively investigating the cause of the disaster. Recent updates from the NTSB indicate that the probe’s focus is on the ship’s engine room equipment.

Meanwhile, Maryland’s top officials and the Biden-Harris administration have promised to address the economic impact of the Key Bridge collapse. Senate President Bill Ferguson of Baltimore City announced a collaboration with Del. Luke Clippinger and other lawmakers to expedite emergency legislation. The legislation aims to provide financial relief to the port employees affected by the disaster. see Bridge, page 3A

Sesha Joi Moon

Photo: Courtesy

Port of Baltimore is the leading American seaport for automotive exports.

Study: Black & Hispanic Faculty Underrepresented In Higher Ed

Simpson

Continued from page 1A

concerning trends regarding the representation of

and Hispanic

members in higher education institutions. Despite modest increases in their numbers over the past two decades, Black and Hispanic individuals remain significantly underrepresented among college faculty.

The study, which examined data spanning from fiscal years 2003 to 2021, found that while the proportions of Black and Hispanic faculty members have seen slight upticks, they continue to lag behind their representation in the broader workforce, particularly among workers with advanced degrees and professionals.

Further, the study highlighted a stark disparity between the racial and ethnic composition of faculty and that of the student body, indicating a systemic issue within higher education.

“Addressing the underrepresentation of Black and Hispanic faculty is not only a matter of diversity but also impacts the overall quality of education and student outcomes,” study authors wrote.

“It’s imperative that we hold institutions accountable for fostering inclusive environments that reflect the diversity of our society.”

The study identified the processing of employment discrimination complaints as one significant barrier. Both current and prospective faculty members have the option to file complaints with either the Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC) or the Department of Education. However, the study revealed persistent delays in the referral of complaints from the Department of Education to the EEOC.

In fiscal year 2022 alone, the Department of Education processed and referred 99 complaints alleging employment discrimination at colleges, with an average referral time of 71 days – well beyond the mandated 30day period. Such delays not only prolong the resolution process but also perpetuate instances of discrimination and inequity within academia.

Rep. Bobby Scott

Additionally, the study uncovered deficiencies in the EEOC’s tracking and processing of complaint referrals. Despite receiving complaints referred to by the Department of Education, the study concluded that the EEOC needs a consistent protocol to ensure the timely receipt and processing of these referrals. The lack of accountability poses risks of oversight and further delays in addressing discrimination complaints, the authors stated.

In response to the findings, the GAO has issued recommendations aimed at enhancing accountability and efficiency in the processing of discrimination complaints. Scott has urged swift action from both the Department of Education and the EEOC to address the systemic disparities and processing delays highlighted in the study.

“The good news is that faculty diversity has improved over the last twenty years. The bad news

April 17, 1965

Edition of the Guide

Doctors Forced From Charlotte By Jim Crow

CHARLOTTE (UPI)

Two Negro doctors were quoted this week saying they were forced to leave Charlotte because of discrimination and severe economic pressure.

Drs. Drayton P. Graham, an Obstetrician and Gynecologist and F. R. Jackson, a surgeon, told the Charlotte Observer in a telephone interview from their Atlanta, Georgia homes they were doing “much better.” “Things are really integrated down here, “said Graham, who noted he had been granted full privileges on the staff of our hospitals. “In Charlotte, there is a lot of talking but no action. Integration of Charlotte hospitals is a lot of bunk.” The doctors told the newspaper their troubles began immediately after Charlotte Community Hospital (Negro) was closed to acutely ill patients on December 20. With only “courtesy” membership on the staff of the city’s other hospitals, Negro doctors lost many of their patients to white physicians. Graham said they would have to wait “seven days to get patients into the white hospitals.

Dr. King Is “Troublemaker,”

Says Harry S. Truman

NEW YORK

Former President Harry S. Truman called Civil Rights leader Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. a “Troublemaker.”

Truman, who arrived during the week to receive an award, made the comment to newsmen while taking his customary walk from his hotel suite.

One of the newsmen

noted that King, head of the Southern Christians

The good news is that faculty diversity has improved over the last twenty years. The bad news is that faculty diversity is still not representative of the students they teach.”

– Congressman Bobby Scott (D-VA), who commissioned the GAO study

is that faculty diversity is still not representative of the students they teach,” Scott stated.

According to the study authors, historically Black colleges and universities, among other minorityserving establishments, have had success in nurturing and advancing academic members of color into tenure-track jobs, which offer greater security than adjunct or part-time employment. The authors noted that these schools frequently prioritize the education of students of color in the recruiting and professional development of their professors. The GAO research suggests that enhancing mentorship, conducting retention studies, and providing leadership opportunities are effective strategies to enhance the retention of faculty members who are of color. The survey also discovered that a positive campus environment affected

teachers’ decision to remain at their schools. The Equal Employment Opportunity Commission and the Department of Education both handle allegations of discrimination at colleges and universities inefficiently, according to the GAO study. The Education Department’s regulation mandates that complaints be sent to the EEOC within 30 days; however, the average time it took to get a referral was more like 71 days.

“As we strive to create more equitable educational environments, it is incumbent upon federal agencies to prioritize the timely and thorough investigation of discrimination complaints,” the authors concluded.

“Our nation’s colleges and universities must be bastions of diversity and inclusion, and addressing the underrepresentation of minority faculty is a critical step towards achieving that goal.”

Notably, Simpson’s record-breaking 1973 season, during which he became the first player to rush for 2,000 yards in a single NFL campaign, remains an indelible mark of his athletic prowess. Off the field, Simpson’s magnetic personality and commercial appeal transcended sports, propelling him to a cultural icon. His groundbreaking endorsement deals, such as the memorable Hertz rental car campaign, revolutionized celebrity advertising and broadened his appeal to a diverse audience.

However, Simpson’s legacy became irrevocably entangled with controversy following the brutal murders of his ex-wife, Nicole Brown Simpson, and her friend, Ron Goldman, in 1994. The ensuing “Trial of the Century,” characterized by its intense media scrutiny and stark racial divisions, captivated the nation, and resulted in Simpson’s dramatic acquittal.

Despite winning the criminal case, Simpson’s life continued to be filled with upheaval, including his subsequent civil liability for the murders and his 2008 conviction on robbery and kidnapping charges.

In the following years, Simpson’s story remained a subject of fascination, inspiring numerous television adaptations and documentaries that sought to unravel the complexities of his life and legacy.

O.J. Simpson died of cancer at age 76, according to a statement from his family. Simpson played 11 seasons in the NFL and was known as “The Juice” to his fans.

Prostate Cancer And Black Men

Although all men are at a risk for prostate cancer, Black men are at higher risk. They are about twice as likely to get and die from prostate cancer than white men. The reasons for this, however, are not definitively known.

“It could be a combination of factors, from genetics to access to care,” says Firas Abdollah, M.D., a urologist with Henry Ford Health, who has published extensive research on the impact of race in prostate cancer.

Black men should consider prostate cancer screening at 45 years, rather than the recommended 55 years of age, according to a recent study led by researchers from UW Medicine and Fred Hutch Cancer Research Center. The study was published recently in the Journal of the National Cancer Institute. Other studies suggest those with family history may be advised to consider age 40.

Leadership Conference (SCLC), had received a Nobel Prize.

“I did not give it to him,” Truman said. Truman said the civil rights movement has its share of “Publicity Seekers” as well as “Good Leaders” But he gave no names.

Officials Are Accused of Confusing Voters

NORFOLK

The Norfolk First Committee is disturbed because some citizens have been misled about the deadline for paying the poll tax to vote in the July 13 primary and the general election Nov. 2. The group, during a press conference Friday, expressed concern over the disappointment of several persons who were told it was too late to pay their poll tax to vote in the “June 1965 elections.”

There is no June election in Norfolk this year. When this Norfolk treasurer’s office was contacted by a reporter of the Journal and Guide Friday, he was told that the deadline for paying the poll tax to vote in the primary and general elections was May 1. The deadline for registering to vote in the primary and general elections is June 12. This Norfolk registrar’s office will be open June 12 from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.

County and city treasurers’ offices are not usually open on Saturday. All persons who wish to vote should see that their poll taxes are paid before May 1.

A statement by the Norfolk First Committee said: “Eligible voters have been lured into a false belief that payment of the poll taxes between now and May 1, will not enable them to participate in the primary elections.

“Certain poll tax receipts are stamped in bold red with the meaningless inscription “too late for the June 12, 1965 election.”

The primary elections of the Democratic party candidates for the General Assembly will be held July 13, 1965.

“Under Virginia’s voting laws, in order to qualify to vote in a primary election, a voter must be qualified to vote in the next general election. Poll Tax for the general elections must be paid six months prior to the time of the general elections.

“All poll taxes paid between now and May 1 will permit the tax payers’ participations on the primary, provided registration is accomplished by June 12, 1965.

Merger of 25 Negro Church-Related Colleges Urged PHILADELPHIA

In an historic session here, the first national consultation on churchrelated colleges founded by Negroes has reviewed a wide range of problems facing these institutions and agree that swift universal actions must be undertaken on a national scale to alleviate them. Presidents, administrators, faculty members, trustees and denominational leaders reached a unanimous consensus that immediate steps to strengthen 25 church-related Negro colleges and fully integrate all such institutions must receive top priority. Called the National Council of Churches, the consultation gave its steering committee a mandate to formulate specific actions for recommendations to denominations and trustees. The committee will meet May 4 in New York City. Speakers called for a variety of measures ranging from a merger of 25 colleges to a national “Monster Plan” with a general staff to coordinate policy experimentation

and financing. Dr. Stephen J. Wright of Nashville, president of Fisk University, said churches which founded the Negro colleges “have no alternative but to merge as many of them as soon as possible. If not, the weaker colleges will perish for lack of resources.”

April 17, 1995

Edition of the Guide

School Board Members

Continue Resolve To Force Commonwealth’s Attorney’s Hand

By Leonard E. Colvin

When Tim Jackson took his oath of office to sit on the Virginia Beach School board for the 1994-96 school year, the budget had already been developed, signed and given a seal of approval by the previous Board.

That was the notorious budget which was riddled with $12.1 million in debt passed on from the 1993-94 budget’s overestimations of student enrollment and underestimation of funding from federal and state sources. A special grand jury supervised by the city’s Commonwealth’s Attorney looked into the discrepancies and handed down a scathing assessment of the Beach school board officials’ handling of its finances.

Jackson is one of seven of the eleven board members who were asked to resign from their post or be prosecuted for malfeasance as being responsible for the massive debt.

Five of the board members have stepped aside. But Jackson and Ferdinand Ferrentino say they will not. Jackson specifically says that he has done nothing wrong since he had nothing to do with the approval of the 1994-95 budget.

In fact, Jackson claims he should be applauded for questioning the fiscal practices of Beach school officials before the revelations of the deficit came to light in the fall of 1995.

“Show me where I have done wrong,” Jackson said. “The Grand jury nor the Commonwealth’s Attorney have anything specific which could tie me or other seven board members to the mess.”

Atlanta Expects 300,000 Students

By Leonard E. Colvin

Atlanta is preparing for thousands of Black college students who are converging on the city for the annual “freaknik” or Freedom Fest” Celebration April 19-21.

And unlike last year, the media and city officials are rolling out the red carpet of welcome

Billed as the Black College Spring Break celebration, the city expects over 300,000 students from colleges across the nation to invade the city this weekend.

Over the past two years, the number of students who attend the event has grown. However, Atlanta residents have been very vocal about the rowdy behavior of the students and the massive traffic jams created by the endless cruising of cars and jeeps along the city’s streets.

All the controversy surrounding the students’ partying and behavior overshadows the $15 million dollars they inject into the city’s economy each spring.

Last year there were minor incidents of students fighting with police, being arrested for public drunkenness or various

Aaron

Continued from page 1A

We are privileged to safeguard his legacy and are honored to unveil this statue as a lasting tribute to an American hero.”

Elected to the Hall of Fame in 1982 after a 23-year career with the Braves and Brewers, Aaron’s legacy extends far beyond his monumental 715th career home run, which surpassed Babe Ruth’s record on April 8, 1974. A 25-time All-Star, Aaron still holds records for the most career RBIs and total bases.

Just how good was Aaron? Even if all his 755 career home runs were removed from the record books, he would still boast over 3,000 hits. The slugger, who died in 2021, made the All-Star team 25 times, established a record with 2,297 RBIs, 1,477 extra-base hits, and 6,856 total bases.

Officials displayed Aaron’s Hall of Fame plaque during a Truist Park ceremony before the recent Atlanta Braves game against the New York Mets. The statue’s creation was made possible through a generous gift from supporters Jane and Bob Crotty, with the guidance and approval of Aaron’s widow, Billye.

The statue will debut during the Hall of Fame Classic celebration over Memorial Day Weekend, coinciding with the May 25 Legends game featuring numerous former big leaguers at Cooperstown’s Doubleday Field.

“Henry would be as thrilled as I am to see his statue at the National Baseball Hall of Fame,” expressed Billye Aaron. “His life embodied hope and perseverance, inspiring generations to pursue their dreams despite obstacles. This tribute is a testament to his love for the game and his desire to inspire young boys and girls everywhere.” The National Baseball

Hank Aaron, who died in 2021, made the All-Star team 25 times, established a record with 2,297 RBIs, 1,477 extra-base hits, and 6,856 total bases. His legacy extends far beyond his monumental 715th career home run, which surpassed Babe Ruth’s record on April 8, 1974.

Hall of Fame and Museum has remained dedicated to preserving Aaron’s legacy, including the exhibit “Hank Aaron: Chasing the Dream,” unveiled in 2009. Additionally, Aaron pledged his entire personal collection to the Museum in 2010, with many artifacts now on loan to various exhibitions, including the one at the Atlanta History Center. The U.S. Postal Service announced that it will issue a commemorative Forever stamp to celebrate Aaron’s life and career further. The stamp art will feature a digital painting of Aaron as a member of the Braves, with the selvage showcasing him watching the ball he had just hit for his record-breaking 715th home run on April 8, 1974. USPS said in a statement, “The selvage showcases a digital painting of Aaron watching the ball he had just hit for his record-breaking 715th home run on April 8, 1974.”

Bridge

Continued from page 1A

According to Ferguson, more than 15,000 individuals in the Baltimore region rely on port operations for their livelihoods. “The human cost of lives lost is overwhelming and tragic,” Ferguson stated. “The economic and stability loss to the thousands impacted cannot be understated.”

Gov. Wes Moore and Baltimore Mayor Brandon Scott have been leading efforts to mitigate the aftermath of the collapse, which has resulted in the indefinite suspension of vessel traffic in and out of the Port of Baltimore. The suspension has exacerbated the economic consequences of the disaster, creating logistical challenges for businesses that rely on the port.

The Francis Scott Key Bridge collapsed on March 26 when the Dali ship collided with it.

The Port of Baltimore plays a crucial role in the East Coast’s shipping infrastructure, annually handling millions of tons of cargo worth billions of dollars. Last year alone, the port facilitated the shipment of more than 840,000 new

cars and trucks, making it the leading American seaport for automotive exports. Officials estimate the Port of Baltimore annually contributes approximately $400 million in tax revenue to Maryland.

As investigations continue and efforts to restore operations at the Port of Baltimore intensify, state and federal officials reiterate their commitment to supporting and relieving those affected by this devastating incident.

Book On Blacks In Major League Baseball Launched In Richmond

RICHMOND

The publication of a new World Series book about the history of Blacks in Major League Baseball was launched recently at the Black History Museum in Richmond.

The book, Black World Series is written by William Forrester Jr. and is described as a “feel-good story” that will inspire sports enthusiasts and anyone interested in AfricanAmerican history. Forrester was inspired by the annual celebration on April 15 since 2004 of the Major League Baseball’s observance of Jackie Robinson Day which commemorates Major League Baseball’s being the first professional sport to break the color barrier and

NSU

Continued from page 1A

He is a member of the Portsmouth Bar Association,

integrate their industries. An April 9, 2007 article from ESPN.com entitled “Robinson would have a mixed view of today’s game” included an intriguing question: “What would Jackie think?” William Forrester Jr. was asked to answer this question and his candid response introduced him and his organization, the Metropolitan Junior Baseball League (MJBL), to the sports world. In 1966, Forrester, Jr.’s father Dr. William M.T. Forrester started the youth baseball league, MJBL, when his son and other Black youths were denied the opportunity to participate in white little leagues. Four decades after the launch of MJBL, Forrester Jr. led a national initiative through the organization his father started to help improve the quality of life for Black and underserved youths by providing educational and athletic programs. The focal point of this initiative was Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs), and some of the figureheads from this movement included a top executive from the sports industry, the leading sports media network, and the Jackie Robinson family. The author says Black World Series is a story intended to motivate and inspire readers while gathering support for the MJBL program, which is still in operation today.

the Old Dominion Bar Association, and the Virginia State Bar Association. Also, he is member of the Virginia Association of Criminal Defense Attorneys, and the Virginia Trial Lawyers Association. He is the former Chair of the Portsmouth

Economic Development Authority and former President of the Southeastern Employment and Training Association. His community involvement includes memberships in the Eureka Club and lifetime memberships in the NAACP, V.F.W., Post #993 and American Legion Post #190. Speaker Scott is married to Dr. Mellanda Colson-Scott, who practices dentistry in Norfolk. They are the proud parents of a 14-year-old daughter.

Photo: Courtesy

By Wornie Reed, Ph.D.

By offering a third plan for student loan debt forgiveness, President Joe Biden seems determined to reduce the amount of debt that many Americans have from their student loans, that is, their borrowing for college expenses.

Why? Student debt has more than doubled over the last two decades.

As of March 2023, 44 million borrowers owed more than $1.6 trillion in federal student loans. When including private loans, this figure exceeds $1.7 trillion. Only home mortgage debt, at about $12 trillion, is larger.

Student loan debt is growing as more students attend college, and the average student takes on more debt. According to U.S. News and World Report, the average amount that a student owed increased by 25 percent between 2009 and 2021.

Students generally have to borrow more because college tuition and fees in the United States have grown faster than income. The cost of college is higher in the United States than in most other wealthy countries, where higher education is often free or heavily subsidized. Meanwhile, across the country, states spent less on public colleges and universities in 2020 than in 2008. As a result, students needed to pay (and borrow) more.

Thus, higher education costs are being transferred to students and parents, driving the student loan crisis. Previously, “state university” meant the state primarily funded a

Clean Energy As The Path to Prosperity For All STUDENT LOAN CRISIS

By Ben Jealous (TRICEEDNEYWIRE.COM)

On Earth Day 1993, I delivered the first major speech of my life. It was in New York City’s Bryant Park, kicking off a nationwide tour to rally opposition to the passage of the North American Free Trade Agreement (NAFTA).

The crowd was about 10,000 people. I was there representing the Student Environmental Action Coalition (SEAC) and joining national leaders from the environmental and labor movements. I was 20 years old and it was nerveracking. It was my first time speaking to a crowd that was not principally students. And it helped me find my public voice, not just on the environment but on the rights of working people.

Now, 31 years later, Earth Day 2024 again marks a moment when the fate of our planet and the fate of working people in our country are tied together.

The climate crisis can only be solved with our transition to an economy based on clean energy. And that next economy is here.

Unlike 31 years ago, the landmark policies now shifting the economic landscape are providing powerful incentives for investments in the country and the planet. They are bills like the Inflation Reduction Act (IRA) and the Biden-Harris administration’s infrastructure law.

NAFTA’s incentives all pointed in the wrong direction for the environment (as well as jobs). It gave polluters

The cost of college is higher in the United States than in most other wealthy countries, where higher education is often free or heavily subsidized.

university for the benefit of the state. There is an old joke that university administrators tell that goes like the following. “A state university used to mean that the university is funded by the state. Then a state university came to mean that it is supported by the state. But in recent years it has come to mean that the university is located in the state.”

Some examples illustrate this situation.

In 2008, college revenues were about 40 percent of the cost in Alabama. Today, nearly $7 out of $10 going into the public college system comes from students, much of which is borrowed. State funding comprises only 4.3 percent of the budget at the University of Colorado Boulder and 8.6 percent of the University of Virginia’s academic budget. This withdrawal of public support for universities is a matter of national priority. Four years ago, in supporting the advocacy of Senator Sanders for large-scale investment in favor of education and public universities, the internationally prominent economist Thomas Piketty tried to remind America about some of the details of its national history. He noted that historically, the prosperity of the United States relied in the twentieth century on

the educational advance of the United States over Europe, producing a degree of equality in this field. Piketty noted that President Reagan’s policies halted this growth and ushered in an unprecedented rise in inequality.

Senator Sanders was simply proposing a return to the source of the country’s development model: a wide diffusion of education.

Recognizing that relieving these heavy student loan debt obligations would help advance racial and socioeconomic equality and boost the economy, advocates have long pushed for student loan cancellation. They argue that without the burden of student loans, more people can buy homes, take entrepreneurial risks, or save for retirement.

Consequentially, President Biden is trying again to carry out a student loan cancellation plan after being blocked by Republicans and, ultimately, the U.S. Supreme Court, which ruled that Biden had overstepped his authority. His new plan would cancel up to $20,000 in interest for some 23 million Americans who now owe more than they originally borrowed.

The heavy burden of student debt severely hampers future prosperity in America.

CARR

By Dr. E. Faye Williams, Esq. (Ret.) (TRICEEDNEYWIRE.COM)

What a week this has been! The Orange Man has met a Mack Truck. Every time he looks at a woman of African descent, I suspect he must say to himself, “Here comes trouble!” Obviously, he thought Marjorie Taylor Greene, Jeff Hawley, Matt Gaetz, J.D. Vance, Kari Lake, Tommy Tuberville and a few more of the Black people he sends out for show would be able to save him, but he arrived at a point where that wasn’t enough – so he commanded the presence of what looks to be the last hope for a Republican Speaker of the House!

That wasn’t working out too well, so he had to send for him to stop what he was doing and make it down to get his charge from the Orange Man by kissing his ring as so many have been required to do. To his credit, Speaker Mike Johnson appeared to be nervous – but he was still reckless to even go to Mar-A-Largo to prove his support for “election integrity.” Obviously, he missed the class that taught definitions!

Vice-President Kamala Harris has been on the road lately to make sure we women understand what’s at stake not just for women of color, but also for white women, and we

legal backdoors to challenge environmental protections outside our courts. It made it harder for Canada to regulate fossil fuels. And it created pressure to increase environmentally harmful farming and mining practices in Mexico.

Now the incentives are pointing the right way. The IRA has $40 billion in tax credits to expand clean technology manufacturing. That includes a manufacturing production tax credit to support the expansion of solar, wind, and battery manufacturing and critical minerals processing. These four sectors are part of the foundation of the next economy. And this tax credit – only a fraction of the power of the IRA – will create more than 560,000 good jobs over the next decade. It also represents the path to keeping the US competitive globally by helping to bring supply chains to America.

E2 is an organization of business leaders pushing policies that are both good for the economy and good for the environment. As of last week, they report at least 301 major clean energy projects have been announced in 41

states and Puerto Rico since passage of the IRA. The eight projects announced just last month alone will create at least 1,700 jobs and pump more than $3 billion into the economy.

E2’s federal advocacy director Sandra Purohit said, “the clean energy economy is once again showing no signs of slowing down. Federal clean energy investments in the IRA are working; they are spurring private investment, thousands more jobs in America’s resurgent manufacturing sector, and they will spark thousands more jobs in those communities to support the new workers and clean energy supply chains being built across the US.”

Critically, sectors other than manufacturing have an important part to play as well.

Financial institutions must divest from fossil fuels to make way for clean energy.

Aside from tax incentives, the clean energy transition itself offers a powerful incentive for this. As the transition picks up steam, fossil fuel companies are a riskier and riskier bet for long-term growth. see Clean, page 5A

By David W. Marshall (TRICEEDNEYWIRE.COM)

The Black community as a whole can never afford to lose empathy for one another. One of the core challenges in maintaining social justice is communicating the need for empathy. It is most critical to be willing to put yourself in another person’s shoes to understand their feelings, plight, and perspectives while using that understanding to guide your actions.

The pursuit of happiness is a fundamental God-given right that the Founding Fathers deemed worthy enough to recognize, uphold, and protect. In his sworn duty as president, Franklin Roosevelt understood and accepted the need to protect this fundamental right.

In his 11th State of the Union address, Roosevelt said, “This Republic had its beginning, and grew to its present strength, under the protection of certain inalienable political rights… our rights to life and liberty. As our nation has grown in size and stature, and as our industrial economy expanded, these political rights proved inadequate to assure us equality in the pursuit of happiness.”

He explained, “We have come to a clear realization of the fact that true individual freedom cannot exist without

need to hold some classes for them like the ones

Vice-President Harris has been teaching lately. If they don’t understand what the Orange Man’s Party has in mind for them, as well as for us, then God forbid, they are allowed to return to the White House to govern everything, including women’s bodies. We will do everything in our power to be sure we don’t return to a time when women didn’t even have the right to vote. No, we won’t go back! The position on women’s right to chose what happens to our bodies, it’s just a matter of time before we are taken back to a time when not even our white sisters had no rights. As a matter of fact, they were the property of their husbands.

To come up with what Arizona recently chose to do, has taken away a woman’s right to choose. That court went back to a time when Arizona was not even a state! Every person must

We’ve been told over and over again who many Republican lawmakers are. We’d better start believing them or we’ll be back in 1894 when leaders like Vice-President Harris would be

in slavery ...

“prove to be an American citizen before being allowed to register to vote.”

Orange man is a threat to our democracy. He cares only about revenge and retribution. These days, so many people are reminding us of Maya Angelou’s statement when she said, “When people tell you who they are, believe them the first time.”

We’ve been told over and over again who many Republican lawmakers are. We’d better start believing them or we’ll be back in 1894 when leaders like Vice-President Harris would be in slavery, as would other minority women, and white women would be owned by their husbands who would be in total control of what all women are allowed.

see What Else?, page 5A

economic security and independence.”

To assure equality in the pursuit of happiness, Roosevelt spoke of having a second Bill of Rights. During his address, Roosevelt added, “We have accepted, so to speak, a second Bill of Rights under which a new basis of security and prosperity can be established for all – regardless of station, race or creed.”

From empathy and concern for others, the second Bill of Rights included: the right to a useful and remunerative job in the industries or shops or farms or mines of the nation; the right to earn enough to provide adequate food and clothing and recreation; the right of every farmer to raise and sell his products at a return which will give him and his family a decent living; the right of every businessman, large or small, to trade in an atmosphere of freedom from unfair

competition and domination by monopolies at home or abroad; the right of every family to a decent home; the right to adequate medical care and the opportunity to achieve and enjoy good health; the right to adequate protection from the economic fears of old age, sickness, accident, and unemployment; the right to a good education. Each of these rights becomes a personal milestone that a person strives to achieve regardless of their background and station in life. These rights, when fulfilled

Ben

What Else?

Continued from page 4A

Listen to the case VicePresident Harris is so eloquently making these days when she says, “They want to take us back to the 1800’s, but we are not going to let that happen.”

For those who’re mumbling about supporting the Orange Man, please listen as Aretha Franklin so eloquently said, “You Better Think.” If you’re being led by those who

Clean

Continued from page 4A

are even thinking about sending the Orange Man back to the White House.

Take the time to listen to your grandparents and others who survived. They had no rights as a white man, Judge Roger Taney said, “Blacks had no rights which the white man was bound to respect.” Never forget there are many such people still among us! Many among us believe the same about women and our rights. Your vote stops them from keeping it that way.

Dr. E. Faye Williams, President of The Dick Gregory Society.

– create even more goodpaying manufacturing jobs.

HOW NUL WILL BRING BLACK VOTERS BACK TO THE POLLS

By Marc H. Morial President and CEO National Urban League

One example is the deal announced in January, between Microsoft and the solar panel manufacturer Qcells. Microsoft agreed to purchase 12 gigawatts of solar modules and Engineering, Procurement and Construction services over eight years. That is enough energy to power more than 1.8 million homes annually. It will help Microsoft hit its own sustainability goals and it will help Qcells – which has the Western Hemisphere’s largest solar manufacturing facility in Dalton, Georgia

Battle

Continued from page 4A

Social Security, as we know it today, is a byproduct of Roosevelt’s second Bill of Rights. The establishment of the Social Security program came from the understanding and compassion that the elderly should be able to retire and spend their later years of life with dignity and financial security. In seven months, the American voters will choose who controls the White House, the U.S. Senate, and the House of Representatives. In making those critical choices, we also decide the long-term future of Social Security and Medicare. For years, Social Security and Medicare, as safety net programs, have remained the target of Republican budget attacks despite how the programs help their constituents. In keeping with the spirit of Franklin’s second Bill of Rights, defenders of Social Security and Medicare have again sounded the alarm. House Republicans have proposed a budget for fiscal year 2025 that Democratic lawmakers have described as being an attack on seniors, veterans, and the middle class.

Every year, companies commemorate Earth Day by changing their logo for a day or putting out empty public relations messages. In some cases, they attempt to “greenwash” their own poor environmental records. This year, companies have the opportunity to take a more genuine approach and commit to being part of the clean energy transition.

The IRA and infrastructure bill offer immediate financial incentives. Clean energy’s increasing resilience and affordability make it good for business in the long term. And it will create a windfall of good jobs, so it is an investment in the American worker. Ben Jealous is the Executive Director of the Sierra Club and a Professor of Practice at the University of Pennsylvania.

“If the United States wants to make good on its foundational claims of a democratic system of governance open to all citizens, it must find ways to close the racial turnout gap. Wider now than at any point in at least the past 16 years, the gap costs millions of votes from Americans of color all around the country. Perhaps most worrisome of all, the gap is growing most quickly in parts of the country that were previously covered under the preclearance regime of the 1965 Voting Rights Act until the disastrous Shelby County ruling.”

– Brennan Center For Justice

◆◆◆

Driven in part by restrictive laws enacted since the Supreme Court gutted the Voting Rights Act, the racial voting gap has exploded and grows wider by the year. The National Urban League is fighting back.

our communities to make their voices heard to drive change where they live and across America.

But until the Voting Rights Act is restored, we’re fighting an uphill battle.

While the racial voting gap has grown across the country, an analysis by the Brennan Center for Justice found, it has grown twice as quickly in jurisdictions that had been covered by Section 5 of the Voting Rights Act until the Supreme Court struck it down with its decision in Shelby v. Holder in 2013.

Urban League staffers and volunteers will be taking to the streets, knocking on doors and visiting college campuses helping eligible citizens ... exercise their right to vote.

have passed nearly 100 laws making it harder for eligible citizens to exercise their constitutional right to vote.

As the Brennan Center notes, “Many of these new laws are racially discriminatory. There is ample evidence that these kinds of laws fall hardest on communities of color, and a number have been struck down by courts as racially discriminatory.”

Driven by this relentless campaign of voter suppression, the racial voting gap in 2022 was the largest midterm gap since at least 2006, robbing the nation of a staggering 14 million votes.

bills in 47 states, with at least 17 of them in 14 states passed into law.

In the coming weeks, Urban League staffers and volunteers will be taking to the streets, knocking on doors and visiting college campuses helping eligible citizens navigate these changes to state laws and register to exercise their right to vote. We’ll be text-banking and phonebanking, engaging face to face and on social media, making sure our communities are armed with accurate information and prepared to cast their ballots.

In the presidential election of 2020, the racial gap represented about nine million votes, far more than President Biden’s 7 million vote margin of victory in the popular vote.

Can those same frustrated voters have empathy and respect for others when making critical election decisions in November?

David W. Marshall is the founder of the faithbased organization TRB: The Reconciled Body and author of the book God Bless Our Divided America.

Pennsylvania Congressman Brendan Boyle, the ranking member of the House Budget Committee, released a statement after the Republican Study Committee announced its 2025 budget. He wrote, “The House GOP has now gone further than ever with their attacks on Social Security and Medicare as we know it, and making trillions in devastating cuts that would raise the cost of living for working families.” In contrast, Congressman Boyle and Senate Budget Committee chairman Sheldon Whitehouse have introduced the Medicare and Social Security Fair Share Act. The legislation will indefinitely extend the solvency of Social Security and Medicare by making the nation’s highest earners contribute their fair share, as verified by the Chief Actuaries of the Social Security Administration and the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services. Social Security is especially important to people of color because they are less likely than white Americans to have pensions or retirement savings. As a result, Social Security is the sole source of retirement income for 33 percent of Blacks compared to 18 percent of whites based on a National Academy of Social Insurance study. A growing number of Black voters are becoming frustrated with President Biden and are more open to voting against him. Many voters who are undecided between Trump and Biden may not depend on Social Security and Medicare as do others. Can those same frustrated voters accept that all people don’t have the same privileges when it comes to the elderly and retirement?

Reclaim Your Vote is a national effort to promote voter registration, voter education, and voter activation with the power of the Urban League Affiliate and Volunteer movement and our strategic partners. Each year, we engage millions of voters across the country to increase voter turnout and empower

Just the year before the decision, with President Obama’s reelection at stake, overall Black voter participation reached nearparity with whites. In the 2008 presidential election, the participation among young Black voters and Black women exceeded every other racial, gender and ethnic group. The Shelby decision took a sledgehammer to that progress. Since 2013, at least 29 states

While many states rushed to pass restrictive laws immediately after the Shelby decision – Texas announced the very same day it would implement a strict voter ID law that had been denied preclearance – the onslaught hasn’t relented. Last year, lawmakers introduced more than 350 restrictive

At the same time, we continue to fight on the state level for fair voting laws and on the national level for the passage of the Freedom to Vote Act, the John Lewis Voting Rights Advancement Act, and the Protecting Our Democracy Act. “We need our democracy to work, we need poverty to end, we need disenfranchisement to be a thing of the past, because when people are suppressed or oppressed it rages,” Stacy Abrams said. “It may be silent for some time but eventually it will come out.”

A CASE FOR PUBLIC AID FOR HARD-HIT MEDIA INDUSTRY

By Chris Mills Rodrigo

America’s media institutions have had a terrible, horrible, no good, very bad start to 2024.

The Messenger, a well-funded, high-profile news site, dissolved after less than a year. Big newspapers from the Los Angeles Times to the IndyStar saw major layoffs. And Sports Illustrated fell into licensing limbo while sites like BuzzFeed, Vice News, or Complex found themselves at best on life support.

The over 500 media jobs eliminated so far this year reflect a broader, worrying trend. By this year’s end, according to one recent estimate, America will have lost one third of all its newspapers – and two-thirds of all its newspaper staff –since 2005.

The losses have been particularly acute in poor and rural communities, leaving ever expanding news deserts all across the nation.

The collapse of news outlets, especially local papers, is robbing our communities of indispensable watch dogs. The disappearance of reporters from city council meetings and public safety hearings is creating oversight vacuums that leave citizens in the dark and enable shady dealings that let the wealthy exercise undue – and undetected – influence.

How did a country once chock-full of influential newspapers morph into a land of news deserts?

One major factor, says University of Pennsylvania media studies scholar Victor Pickard, has been the disintegration of the advertising model. In short, search engines and social media sites are eating up revenue that once went to local papers.

Hence the rise of paywalls everywhere as more outlets resort to subscriptions. That works well for some, but subscriptions haven’t been enough to

replace ad funding in most cases –especially for larger publications or those that serve less wealthy audiences. Other outlets have counted on the benevolence of billionaire buyers. But that creates real concerns about the influence of exorbitantly wealthy owners – who have been increasingly unwilling to foot the bill for quality journalism.

The Washington Post – owned by Jeff Bezos, who recently became the richest man alive again – offered buyouts to 240 employees this past fall. And Los Angeles Times owner Patrick Soon-Shiong’s net worth of nearly $6 billion didn’t save the jobs of the 115 workers the paper laid off this January.

Is there an alternative to for-profit journalism? To be sure, we’ve seen some exciting developments in nonprofit and worker-owned journalism. But these proposals remain limited in scope.

Given all this, some experts are calling for a fundamental rethinking of how we value journalism. “The information produced by journalism should always be – and should have always been – treated as a public good,” Victor Pickard told me. “And that, by its very nature, is not something that’s easily monetized.”

Good reporting simply takes more resources to produce than it can easily

The collapse of news outlets, especially local papers, is robbing our communities of indispensable watch dogs.

recoup in digital ad dollars or fundraising.

The answer? A real commitment to public media funding.

The United States does, of course, invest some money in public media.

Last year Congress allocated $535 million to the Corporation for Public Broadcasting, the private nonprofit corporation tasked with investing in public radio and television. And some promising experiments are taking place at the state level, with California, New Mexico, and Washington devoting public tax dollars for local news coverage.

But that funding is a drop in the bucket compared to what’s needed.

A 2022 study comparing funding globally found the U.S. spends just $3.16 per

a “Marshall Plan” for journalism – a robust new era of public funding. Our democracy deserves better than to rely on ad dollars that are rapidly drying up.

Chris Mills Rodrigo is the managing editor of Inequality.org at

Marc H. Morial

Chris Mills Rodrigo

THE REVERENDS JAMES & DEE EDWARDS: 60 YEARS OF BLACK LOVE

By Melissa Spellman Staff Reporter

Love is an enchantment that consumes us like a whirlwind, passes us suddenly like a night sky, or lingers with the longing of unrequited affections. However, although love is exciting, painful, far-reaching, and life-changing, not every relationship is built to withstand the test and trials of marriage. As we enter the Spring season, a time of new beginnings and blooming love, we look at 60 years of historical marriage and Black love between Reverends James and Delores Edwards.

James and Delores first met at a Friday Night dance held at Booker T. Washington High School in 1960 and on May 10, 1963, they married. Delores Winfield was born in Norfolk, raised in Crestwood Manor, a blooming area in Chesapeake at the time, and she attended Crestwood High School. She would go on to graduate from Booker T. Washington. James was born and raised in the Huntersville area of Norfolk and graduated from Booker T. class of 1960.

During this interview, the comfort, confidence, and care of knowing

each other well was ever present between the couple. They had a shared history that made them laugh and smile at the recollection of the courting, the adventures from their youth, and the journey that brought them to the present day.

The repartee between the pair was the witty banter of your favorite romantic comedy, except this was not scripted. In the living room of their beautiful home, rich in warmth, love, and spirit, were James and Delores, the same couple from 1963 – only now more in love, more in tune, and beaming with God’s grace.

HOW THEY FIRST MET

Rev. Dee described her first-time meeting Rev James in their youth in 1960. “He went to Booker T. at that time, and I was in Crestwood. Booker T. was a school that had a Friday night dance in the gym. People from other cities would come because it’s the only fun place you had to go,” she said. Rev. Dee said her mother would take her and her sister to the Friday night dance where she met James. “My mom would take us over to Booker T. I love to dance, and he was just out there loving to dance too, showing off. Oh, my goodness!” Rev. James shared his version of events, “We met

In the living room of their beautiful home, rich in warmth, love, and spirit, were James and Delores, the same couple from 1963 – only now more in love, more in tune, and beaming with God’s grace.

at the Friday night dance. I asked her to dance. To tell you the truth, I was on the other side of the room, and I am a very observant person, I saw this nice-looking young girl with this long hair bow legged on the other side of the wall. I said ‘where is she from?’ I had never seen her before. I thought I knew practically everyone in Norfolk. I just went over and asked her if she wanted to dance with a good dancer.” They both laughed. However, a young Delores had no interest in James at that time. There would be many unsuccessful attempts before she would give him a chance.

GETTING TOGETHER

Dee’s first impression of James with his loud personality would take her a while to come to the idea of dating him. Rev. James shared his first impression of Dee. “My first impression was that’s a pretty girl! We hadn’t talked or anything. I just

saw her across the floor. I thought that’s a pretty girl over there!” Like many love stories navigating a relationship is not always a straight line. There is often trouble getting off the ground and staying afloat.

Rev. James proceeded “I called her. I convinced a cousin of mine who had access to a car to come go with me to Chesapeake.” On the proposition of introducing him to Dee’s sister his cousin agreed. “I wanted him to meet Dee’s sister I thought he would like her, and she would like him. They hit it off, then me and Dee fell apart,” said Rev. James. They both chuckled at the antics of their formative years. “This is a long story Ms. Spellman,” he declared.

When you find something in a person that you feel like it’s worth taking a deeper look you will hang out a minute. A lot of people don’t do that.”

Rev. Dee took hold of the story reigns, “He had to convince me. It took some wooing. I found out that behind all the noise and cutting up there was actually some intelligence back there.” She went on to say, “When you find something in a person that you feel like it’s worth taking a deeper look you will hang out a minute. A lot of people don’t do that. I think that’s what happens with poor relationships that don’t make it because you don’t look a little deeper. My mother used to say make a checklist what’s worth it and what’s not. Although the struggle was there to initially get together it was worth it.”

– Rev. Dee Edwards

Rev. James was eager to tell his side of the story of how they got together. “That’s not the whole story,” he insisted. “For two years she kept brushing me off. I was loud and rambunctious and Dee didn’t care anything for that,” he admitted. see Edwards, page 7A

Revs. James and Dee Edwards are both NSU Spartan Loyalists seen frequently proudly Beholding The Green & Gold! Here they had just worshipped at Shiloh Baptist Church for a special College Day Service.

Photo: BrendaH.Andrews

Continued from page 6A

“We know now that the Lord had ordained us to get back together,” he added.

Rev. James took Dee to meet his maternal grandmother on two occasions. The first was to get her opinion. The second time his grandmother was in Norfolk Community Hospital.

WHAT MAKES THEIR MARRIAGE WORK AND MARRIAGE ADVICE

Rev. Dee said that you must learn about forgiveness. She suggested that compromise is key and you must decide, “What’s really important? How important is it that you get your way with this or that? It’s really a balance to make sure you are not inserting too much of yourself into any particular situation.”

Rev. James shared his thoughts on how they kept a lasting marriage, “I don’t have a check off list that I

Rev. James wasn’t aware of how sick his grandmother was, and she died the next morning. “But when I was leaving the room, she called me back after everyone else was gone. She said to me ‘that is the girl that you ought to marry’. My grandmother put the seal on it. So, I went to work. That’s how we wound up getting married,” he explained.

remember. I got saved in 77. If I had not gotten saved our marriage would not have succeeded. It would not have advanced. God desired us to be married.”

He went on to say that all they accomplished together could not have been done separately. They had to be together to accomplish it. “The Lord showed me in my spirit that we had to be together for those things to happen. God’s intervention in our lives made our marriage work,” said James.

Rev. Dee added, “But I think without God at the core having your own meditation with Him about whatever situations that we were going through, whatever decisions we needed to make, where

REQUEST FOR PROPOSALS

The Norfolk Redevelopment and Housing Authority (NRHA) will receive proposals for PR2153-153-24: Project Based Vouchers (PBV) for Projects within the Boundaries of the City of Norfolk from property owners and developers for new housing developments in Norfolk, Virginia and neighboring jurisdictions. The PBV program is a tool to promote the expansion of quality, affordable and accountable housing opportunities to low income families, homeless persons, elderly persons and person with disabilities, in order to meet mixed-income community objectives. The PBV shall be deployed in new construction, rehabilitated housing, or adaptive reuse of existing structures for residential housing developments or mixed income rental communities. Multiple, resultant contracts may be offered up to 20 year terms.

Proposals will be received at NRHA, 555 E. Main Street (17th Floor Drop Box) Norfolk, VA 23510 no later than 3:00 p.m. local prevailing time, on May 3, 2024. Solicitation documents are available for review at www.nrha.us and the E-Virginia Procurement website (www.eva.virginia.gov).

NRHA does not discriminate against individuals because of race, color, religion, sex, disability, familial status or national origin. Small businesses owned by women and minorities, and Section 3 certified businesses are encouraged to submit proposals.

“We are very different people from back in the day, but we still love the same stuff. We still like to dance,” said Rev. Dee. “The music just changed on me,” Rev. James added.

we needed to be, and what we needed to be about those things we consulted God about. When we felt confident that’s where He wanted us to go then we went.” Their trust in God was tested when James came home one day, and said he was leaving his job at the newspaper. When Dee asked him why he said the Lord told him to start a daycare. Although James had a background in education neither of them knew anything about running a daycare. Rev. Dee described her reaction, “My response was okay;

well, don’t wait until I’m 50 years old to get started with it, OK? I knew I needed energy. So, we did. We maintained the daycare God only knows how.”

The couple ran a successful Day Care from 1982 to 1992. Rev. Dee shared, “So much came out of that experience. Trust in God that was incomparable because it was nothing in the natural. There was nothing that said we were supposed to be successful.”

The couple shared their thoughts on growing together over the years and keeping

their spark for one another. “We are totally different from when we first got married. But the blessing in that is that you grew together, you got to see it, you got to know it, and understand it. We are very different people from back in the day, but we still love the same stuff. We still like to dance,” said Rev. Dee. “The music just changed on me,” Rev. James added. “We have to do those things–sit close, touch, and make sure you know that person is there for you. I tell him sometimes when I walk past him and touch him on his head, that’s a blessing for you. I’m just saying a little prayer and going on my way,” said Rev. Dee. Reverends James and Delores Edwards are an example of a strong marriage, growing together in Christ, in business, in ministry, in life, and in love.

NCMPEF To Honor 21 Graduating Male Students At Annual Breakfast

EACH AWARDEE WILL RECEIVE $1,000

CHESAPEAKE

The New Chesapeake Men for Progress Education Foundation, Inc., will hold its 16th Annual Black Male Achievement and Scholarship Awards Breakfast on April 27, 2024 at 9 a.m. at the Chesapeake Conference Center, 700 Conference Center Drive, Chesapeake.

The keynote speaker for this event is Kelvin Wright, retired Chief of Police for the City of Chesapeake. Wright, a Portsmouth native, joined the Chesapeake Police Department in 1982, and quickly rose through the ranks, and was appointed Police Chief in 2008. He was the City’s first Black Police Chief and served the city in that capacity for 14 years.

Under his leadership the Chesapeake Police Department was on the leading edge of testing and deploying body worn cameras. The Department was the first in the Commonwealth and a national leader, and these devices have become an industry standard in policing. The keynote speaker will be introduced by Captain Duane McNair, Chesapeake’s Deputy Sheriff, who is a recipient of the Marin Luther King, Jr. Leadership Award and the Sheriff Department’s Deputy of the Quarter Award. The program will feature music provided by Western Branch High School Quartet. David K. Hamilton, vice Chairman, The New Chesapeake Men for Progress Education Foundation will lead the Pledge of Allegiance and Reygan C. White, senior from Western branch High School will sing the national Anthem after the Chesapeake Sheriff Office Color Guard post the Flag. Quentin E. Hicks, principal, Western Branch High School will

moderate the program. James L. Rivers, member, BMASB Planning Committee will provide the Invocation, grace, and benediction.

Welcome will be provided by the Foundation’s Board Chairman Al Alexander; Honorable Dr. Richard “Rick West, mayor, City of Chesapeake; Honorable Angela B. Swygert, chair, Chesapeake School Board; and Dr. Jared A. Cotton, superintendent, Chesapeake Public Schools. Dr. George F. Reed, chairman BMASB Planning Committee will provide a description of the occasion.

Highlight of the program will be the recognition of the 21 students each being awarded a $1,000 scholarship, and the ten middle school academic scholars who each will be awarded a $100 gift certificate and Medallion. The Foundation also awards seven other scholarships annually in August at its Annual Sponsors and Membership Reception Program. This has been made possible by the generous donations from individuals and sponsorships from area corporations and foundations. The Foundation administers the George W. McCadden Vocational Trade and Technology Scholarship which is supported by his widow, Carolyn AbronMcCadden; InterColler Vocational Trades and Technology Scholarship which is funded by Ian Issac Thomas, owner of a minority Logistic Corporation; Chesapeake Redevelopment and Housing Authority Scholarship for students living in public housing and whose parents are using Housing Choice Vouchers; NCMPEF/Chesapeake Education Association

Teacher Scholarship; Fine Arts Scholarship, and the Dr. William E. Ward Family Scholarship for students enrolling in Historical Black College and Universities (HBCUs) which is supported by his widow, Dr. Rose M. Ward.

Over the years, the Foundation has provided $218,340, which has impacted the lives of Chesapeake’s students: $199,000 in scholarships to 300 high school graduates; $7,000 Chesapeake Unit Boys and Girl Club; $5,500 to three Title I Schools; and $6,840 in mini grants to support mentoring programs in the city of Chesapeake. As a designated Proud Partner of Chesapeake Public Schools, the Foundation Board and members welcome the partnership and work daily to support excellence in education.

The Foundation also administers the Micah C. Hall and S. Kandi Hall Endowment that provides various types of financial support to students residing in the South Norfolk and Camelot sections of the city. The Middle School

Award for Educational Excellence program is the brainchild of the late Dr. Darnell Johnson, a longtime educator and professor of mathematics at Elizabeth City State University. He was an endowed Distinguished Professor and Chair of the mathematics department at Elizabeth City State University prior to his death. He envision middle school as the appropriate for mentoring intervention to prevent students from dropping out of school, and the opportune time to motivate them to achieve academically and socially.

Major sponsors of this event include: Signature Sponsor, the Honorable VA Senator L. Louis Lucas; Gold Sponsors: Towne Bank and Chesapeake Regional Healthcare: Silver Sponsors: Amazon; Dominion Energy, Dragas Companies: Bronze Sponsors: Chesapeake Redevelopment and Housing Authority; Norfolk State University; Tidewater community College; First Baptist Church, Berkley; Children Today Leaders Tomorrow Foundation; and Dr. D.B. Stephanie Johnson.

April 21st

First Baptist, Lambert’s Point, To Install Rev. Primas O. Paige NORFOLK

On Sunday, April 21, 2024, the First Baptist Church of Lambert’s Point will install its new Pastor, the Rev. Primas Omar Paige at 3 p.m. at the church.

Rev. Paige and his Family served at First Baptist Church Lambert’s Point under former Pastor Anthony Paige, who retired from the pulpit several years ago. Pastor Primas Paige, son, is known throughout the Hampton Roads community for his ministerial preaching and musical talent.

The church is located at 1268 W. 38th Street, Norfolk, VA 23508.

NN STATE LAWMAKERS HELP DELIVER $40M FOR NAVY HOUSING

Price and Senator Mamie Locke were instrumental in securing a $40 million commitment from the Virginia General Assembly, in order to create affordable downtown Navy housing that will cut the commute time for sailors who work at Newport News Shipbuilding.

The funds are expected to advance the partnership between the city, Newport News Shipbuilding, and the Navy, as all three seek to provide sailors additional services including housing and transportation. The anticipated funds will also upgrade other amenities such as talent recruitment and retention efforts by the Shipyard, Navy, and other downtown

businesses, according to news reports. “Something of this size and of this magnitude … could really help invest funds in an area that has been historically neglected,” said Price, in a recent interview with WHRO, after she introduced the $40 million budget amendment that was recently adopted as part of the House of Delegates’ budget.

“We’re talking about truly transformative,” said Price, who not only lives in and represents downtown Newport News but recalls how the city’s once-thriving downtown area now consists largely of shipyard and government facilities.

In 2019, Newport News was the recipient of a $30 million federal Choice Neighborhood Initiative grant that has helped redevelop public housing near downtown.

According to WHRO, Price has also

sponsored legislation now headed to the governor’s desk. It aims to provide incentives for development in areas with a large military presence, including Newport News.

Specifically, Price’s bill, (HB 619), would establish military centered community zones. The term means these zones would “offer unique benefits to businesses looking to locate within a zone for the purpose of serving the needs of the military personnel, including reduction of certain fees and taxes. In addition, the bill provides that local governing bodies are authorized to enter into agreements for the payment of economic development incentive grants to such businesses.” Further, the bill provides that military centered community zones would not remove other enterprise designations or grants.

Norfolk Presents Resolution To Rev. Dr. Keith I. Jones

SMALL BUSINESS DIRECTORY

GET NOTICED AND PLACE A SMALL BUSINESS AD IN THE GUIDE. RATES STARTING AS LOW AS $155 PER MONTH

NORFOLK Mayor Dr. Kenneth Alexander read and presented a Resolution from the City of Norfolk saluting Rev. Dr. Keith Jones on the occasion of his retirement from Shiloh Baptist Church of Norfolk. In the text, the City commended Rev Jones for his pastoral and community leadership, and his trusted service as a community ambassador for the City.

Photo: Courtesy

SHARE YOUR POEM DURING NATIONAL POETRY MONTH

Help New Journal and Guide celebrate National Poetry Month in April by submitting your original poem to us. Poems will be printed in the Thursday print editions during April and online at www.thenewjournalandguide.com POETRY RULES

1. Poems can be in any poetic style and on any subject.

2. A poem must be written by the person submitting the poem.

3. Poems over 300 total words may not be printed.

4. Do not submit poem in all capital letters.

5. Poems containing language that is vulgar, offensive, or wholly inappropriate will not be accepted.

6. Include your name or any other information at the end of your poem.

Send to njguide@gmail.com with POEM on the subject line or mail to New Journal and Guide, P.O. Box 209, Norfolk, VA 23501.

Hello and welcome to The Bridge Corner. So far, we have been working with suit contracts: 4 Hearts, 3 Diamonds, 5 Clubs, 2 Spades, etc. Before we get into the more complicated No Trump contracts, let’s review some of the basic bridge information that will help guide us in making the best possible bid. First, two important concepts: 1) EVERY bid asks a question and 2) During the bidding, you ARE NOT playing your hand, you must discipline yourself to ANSWER your partner’s question(s). in order to “open” the auction for bidding, a player (the opener) must have at least 12 points. In order for the partner of the opening bidder to respond, this player (the responder) must have at least 5 points. The point system: Ace = 4 points; King = 3 points; Queen = 2 points; Jack = 1 point.

Next, the four (4) things EVERY one-level (1) OPENING bid says:

1) Point count.

A. If opening

1 Club©, 1 Diamond (D), 1 Heart (H), or 1 Spade (S), then opener is showing AT LEAST 12 points..

B. If opening

1 No Trump (N/T), opener is showing exactly 15 to 17 points.

2) The opening bid MUST show whether or not there is AT LEAST a five card Major suit (Spades or Hearts) in the hand.

3) The opener must ask his partner (the responder) for information about responder’s hand:

A. If opener bids 1 Club, 1 Diamond, or 1 No Trump, then opener is asking his partner if he has AT LEAST a four-card Spade or Heart suit (a fourcard Major suit).

B. If opener bids 1 Spade or 1 Heart, then opener is asking his partner if partner has at least 3 cards in the opening Major suit

4) If opener bids 1 Club, 1 Diamond, 1 Heart, or 1 Spade, then opener is asking partner if partner has AT LEAST 5 points in order to respond to opener’s bid. If opener bids 1 No Trump, then opener is asking partner if partner has AT LEAST 8 points in order to respond to opener’s bid. We then explained that the responder uses his hand to answer opener’s questions.

In today’s session, we will cover the RANKING of the suits, the bid that declares GAME, and the number of POINTS needed for game.

RANKING: No Trump > Spade > Heart > Diamond > Club

1 N/T can be bid OVER 1 Spade; 1 Spade can be bid OVER 1 Heart; 1 Heart can be bid OVER 1 Diamond; 1 Diamond can be bid OVER 1 Club. HOWEVER, a club is lower ranking than a Diamond, a Diamond is lower ranking than a Heart, a Heart is lower ranking than a Spade, and a Spade is lower ranking than No Trump. In order to bid Clubs over 1 Diamond, you MUST bid 2 Clubs; in order to bid Diamonds over 1 Heart, you MUST bid 2 Diamonds, etc.

GAME: 3 No Trump 4 Spades 4 Hearts 5 Diamonds 5 Clubs

In order to make GAME, there must be AT LEAST 100 points in the Strain (suit) being bid. In No Trump, the first trick is worth 40 points and all other tricks in No Trump are worth 30 points; so, 40 (1st trick) + 30 (second trick) + 30 (third trick) = 100. It takes three tricks in No Trump to make GAME. In Spades & Hearts, each trick is worth 30 points; 4 X

30 = 120. In Diamonds & Clubs, each trick is worth 20 points; 5 X 20 = 100. PLEASE NOTE: The partnership that gets the contract (the pair that makes the highest bid) must win six tricks BEFORE they get to count the number of tricks they declared they would make. Example: North and South bid 3 Spades (part score because they do not have enough High Card Points for GAME which is 4 Spades); North & South must make 6 tricks ( these 6 tricks are called BOOK) + the 3 tricks they declared in their bid = total of 9 tricks.

POINTS:

25 to 26 - 3 No Trump

25 to 26 - 4 Spades

25 to 26 - 4 Hearts

28 to 29 - 5 Diamonds

28 to 29 - 5 Clubs

TIDEWATER BRIDGE CLUB

The Banks at Berkley 701 South Main Street, Norfolk, VA 23523

WEDNESDAYS

10:45 a.m. to 3:30 p.m.

This is a locked building. You will have access from 10:30 until 11 a.m. Take the elevator up to the second floor. Game fee is $4. Bring your lunch.

Winning Pairs from the April 3, 2024 Bridge Game

Sandra Starkey – Gil Watson

Lawrence Owes –Shirley Nottingham

Wilma Horne – Rose Ward

Elva Taylor – Marshall Hutto

Jennifer Douglas –

Susie Ballard-Ware

Barbara Whitfield –Gloria Brown

Any question, concerns, or comments, please feel free to contact Lawrence Owes, President, Tidewater Bridge Club at l.a.owes1@ gmail.com.

AKAs SPONSORING 12TH ANNUAL COMMUNITY EMPOWERMENT FAIR

The 12th Annual Community Empowerment Fair presented by the 20 Pearls Foundation, Incorporated in partnership with Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority® Incorporated, Lambda Omega Chapter will take place on Saturday, April 27, 2024, from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. The event will be held at Heritage High School, located at 5800 Marshall Avenue, Newport News, VA 23605.

This community event is in partnership with Riverside Health System, Heritage High School, and Newport News Public School’s Family and Community Engagement

Specialists and is open to the public. It serves as a celebration of the community and its invaluable resources, and it has been one of the largest fairs in the area.

The fair promotes empowered lifestyles, including prenatal care, healthy living, financial management, safety, and much more. City departments and community organizations will be on hand to provide activities for adults and children. During previous Community Empowerment Fairs, hundreds of people were in attendance.

Door prizes to attendees and food trucks will be available for concessions.

By Sean C. Bowers

Our planet’s inhabitants face level threats of extinction on many fronts: shortages of food, clean water, air, and nuclear holocaust. Our entrenched attitudes of superiority regarding racism, sexism, classism and religiosity are “poisoning the waters,” of our souls. And into that toxic atmosphere comes the latest morphable most severe threat of all, “artificial intelligence.” “AI” proponents will tell you all the things AI could help us achieve, accomplish and access. Unlike the other threats, this insidious newcomer has self-learning awareness to get better, faster, smarter, deeper, attempting the “unattainable perfection” Thomas Jefferson spoke of in his writings. Somehow the very real danger of human downsizing replacement rarely comes up. We know that capitalism will always take the cheapest options for maximum profits and returns for shareholders, operating by market laws of #1. The creative side of humanity is at risk of becoming obsolete or completely replaced forever. The ability to copy, cut, paste, AI-generated material seemed like harmless computer world games when we were playing them in the beginning the 1980s and 1990s. The digital evolution revolution has impacted the internet kingdom of fantasies. Ironically, many early creators of digital worlds did so to escape our world as an application, game,

NEW JOURNAL & GUIDE YOUTH CITIZEN OF THE MONTH

APRIL 2024

By Melissa Spellman Staff Reporter New

Journal and Guide

The New Journal and Guide’s Youth Citizen of the Month is a new initiative to acknowledge young citizens in the areas of education, leadership, compassion, and empathy for other people. This award is offered to young citizens who are thriving in their education, have shown improvement in their educational pursuits, exhibit leadership ability, and have

mom and family are very proud of him now on his way to a college of his choice. Dreams do come true.

NAME: ELIJAH WASHINGTON

SCHOOL: LAKE TAYLOR HIGH SCHOOL

GRADE: 12 | AGE: 18

NJG: What are your goals and ambitions?

Elijah: My goals are to graduate high school, attend Syracuse University, graduate, and have a career that I genuinely love and to enjoy life.

NJG: What do you want to be when you grow up?

Elijah: I want to be a pro athlete in football or basketball. Something I worked hard for ever since I was a kid, so me and my family could have a worry-free life.

NJG: What makes you happy?

Elijah: What makes me happy is being a

straight “A” honor student, sports, money and living in the moment.

NJG: Who inspires you?

Elijah: My mother of course. She is the hardest working person I know. She has gotten us through some very hard times and is still there for me, my sisters, and brothers. Whatever we are into sports, honors in school, or whatever, she’s there.

NJG: What is your greatest accomplishment in life this far?

Elijah: Getting a scholarship to attend college for free through academics and athletics.

NJG: Who is your favorite Teacher?

Elijah: I don’t have one. They all were a part of my success.

toy, project, experiment, or plaything.

It’s not so funny now that such a simple little play thing has morphed into something that can and will take your job!, With no family to feed, raise and protect, AI will work for nothing, forever.

What’s worse is the surrendering of our minds to the laziness (convenience) of all the world’s connected knowledge at your “device’s” fingertips. Our minds used to be comprised of “Actual Intelligence,” a giant collection of what we experienced, learned, knew, and mastered. Today’s young people of today now struggle to meet, connect, converse, and mate, without “their precious” devices. Worse still is the “stop-the-learning” processes, the acts of interfacing for the earlier digital world’s lures of no homework. The device remembers, connects, and meets others, so you don’t have to. Look how fast we already swipe right on apps of people we have never actually met face-to-face. We are becoming “digitally dependent sorters” in this new amazon-primed world of “instant- now,” convenience. But at what cost? We are losing our humanity, our empathetic capacity to identify with others and the common life struggles we all face and share. The late television producer, Norman Lear, coined the concept, “the dumbing down of America’s ever-shortening attention span, due to the constant bombardment of commercials.” We went from breaks every hour and half hour in early TV days, to the nearly constant interruptions and distractions preventing us from our earlier focused task and work completion abilities. The “AI” pool seems warm, inviting, even exciting, yet there is no bottom to the depths of these dangers. We still don’t fully know or understand what outsourcing our inter-operability knowledge accumulation capacities will be, or what effect that transition would have on humanities: work output, productivity, innovation, creativity, accomplishments and future.

We do know that January 6th occurred because people were

Our minds used to be comprised of “Actual Intelligence,” a giant collection of what we experienced, learned, knew,

and mastered.

radicalized by 45, his minions, and the internet’s supposedly “Artificially Intelligent” algorithms, agitating the Right to a state of near complete meltdown. 45 regularly uses the worst of what he is, what we are, and what we are to bring about-the worst of what we could be. Look how badly that went. Do you now want to dive in head-first to that same over-amplified, overelectrified, over-glorified, over-hyped, over-promised, under-delivered, and Indiasupported, “AI” whose creators can’t guarantee control, safety, peace and security? Do we want to trade everything we have known, learned, and accomplished for this “Fools’ Gold” mentality of endless short cut(s) macros?

There is no short cut to actual proficient learning and displaying “Actual Intelligence.” You must learn, and practice, the old-fashioned way. The same way our Mom made us look up words in the dictionary, actually induced “cranium knowledge acquisition input” for lifelong storage. We had to pronounce words, spell them and then use them in a sentence. That way they become your very own words, your known and usable vocabulary.

By using our brains we learned the words, numbers, and complex concepts. They didn’t learn us and they weren’t used to replace us, undercut us, or drive us to mental intelligence extinction: or worse. Complete technological dependency is a form of “artificial intelligence.” Beware! We are the canary in the digital “Artificial Intelligence” coal mine.

Sean C. Bowers has written the last 27 years for The New Journal and Guide, CHAMPIONING overcoming racism, sexism, classism, and religious persecution. More of his work can found by searching “Sean C. Bowers” on the NJ&G website, on social media at Linkedin.com or by e-mail V1ZUAL1ZE@aol. com NNPA 2019 Publisher of the Year, Brenda H. Andrews (NJ&G 37 years) has always been his publisher.

Sean C. Bowers

Elijah Washington

Photo: Courtesy

By Rev. Dr. Archie L. Edwards, Sr.

GOD’S LAW AND GOD’S PROMISE MOMENTS of MEDITATION

Galatians 3:15-29

“The law ... does not set aside the covenant previously established by God and thus do away with the promise. For if the inheritance depends on the law, then it no longer depends on a promise; but God in His grace gave it to Abraham through a promise” (Galatians 3:1718).

Up to this point, Paul has presented the Galatians with a number of arguments to demonstrate the unique and all-sufficient nature of the Gospel of salvation by faith alone, apart from the deeds of the law.

1. It had been divinely revealed to Paul to prepay him for the special ministry among the Gentiles (1:1516). 2. This had been recognized by the other apostles as a God-given ministry (2:9). 3. If people could be saved by keeping the law, then Christ died in vain (2:21). 4. Abraham was justified by faith many years before the law was given; therefore, he is the spiritual father of all who believe, whether they are Jews or Gentiles (3:6-7). This, however, created a major problem for those who revered and

conscientiously tried to obey God’s law. If people have always been saved by faith alone, why was the law given? Didn’t this doctrine place God’s law and His promise in opposition to each other? Paul deals with these questions in the last half of chapter 3, The Priority Of The Promise. Paul begins this discussion of the priority of God’s promise over His law by taking an illustration from ordinary life. He refers to “a human covenant that has been duly established” (Galatians 3:15) and observes that it cannot be annulled or altered. If this true on the human level, how much more must it be true when God is the One who has established the covenant! The covenant promises were given “to Abraham and to his seed” (v. 16a). Paul makes a point of the fact that the singular is used – “seed” – and finds the fulfillment of the promise in one person, Christ (v. 16b). Paul establishes the priority of the promise over the law, and the spiritual inheritance of those who trust God in faith as Abraham did rather

than depending on the law for their redemption (vv. 17-18).

The Purpose Of The Law. Does the priority of God’s promise over the law mean that the law served no purpose in the divine plan?

By no means! God’s law was given, like every other aspect of divine revelation, for a redemptive purpose, even though it could not, in itself, redeem. The law was a temporary measure, intended to prepare the way for the coming of Christ, the Redeemer, by highlighting the inability of sinful human beings to save themselves. The law “was added” (v. 19). The promise was already in place, but God added the law so that people might understand the reality and awfulness of sin. This was done “because of transgressions.” The law was a means of pointing sinners to the promised seed, the Lord Jesus Christ. Through faith in Him not through law keeping – those condemned by the law of God could be justified. The law, important as it was, served a temporary, subordinate role in comparison with the continuing, preeminent role of the promise.

Paul points out that it was instituted “through angels” (v. 19). The law was communicated to Israel by a mediator, Moses. There was no mediator over the law involved in the giving of the promise. The presence of a mediator implies a two-party contract (v. 20), which is what the law was. Israel agreed to obey the law, and God agreed to bless them as long as they

did so. But the promise given to Abraham was initiated and communicated directly by God, without a mediator. This reflects the unilateral, unconditional nature of the promise and God’s sovereign grace in giving it. All this indicates the temporary, preparatory nature of the law and points to the fulfillment of the promise in Christ, the promised Seed.

Another aspect of the law is that it served as a prison warden prior to Christ’s coming. Through the law, sin has become evident as the master to which every human being is subject. “The Scripture declares that the whole world is a prisoner of sin” (v. 22). So the law, like a prison warden, kept sinners “locked up until faith should be revealed” (v. 23).

Again, though this was a necessary function, it was a temporary one, anticipating the fulfillment of God’s promise. Finally, the law served yet another temporary function – to train or disciple God’s people in ways that, when the promise was fulfilled, would lead them to faith in Christ (v. 24).

The Privilege Of Divine Sonship. The fulfillment of God’s promise through the coming of Christ means that believers are no longer prisoners of sin (vv. 2223) or minors under the custody of a child trainer (vv. 24-25). It is their glorious privilege to be sons of God.

Three changes come into the life of a believer through faith in Jesus Christ. First, he or she become a son

or daughter of God – no longer an infant or an immature child, but as far as his or her standing with God is concerned, a mature person (v. 26). Believers have been baptized into Christ and clothed with Christ (v. 27).

Second, there is a oneness among believers. Notice the emphasis on this in verses 26-27: “You are all sons of God through faith in Christ Jesus, for all of you … have clothed yourselves with Christ.” Paul makes this explicit

Third, all who belong to Christ are heirs with Him of the promise made to Abraham (v. 29). The “seed of Abraham,” as Paul said earlier, is first of all Christ (v. 16), but it also includes everyone who has become one with Him through faith. So believers are “heirs of God and co-heirs with Christ” (Romans 8:17).

Beyoncé’s “Cowboy Carter” Gallops To No. 1, Making History On Billboard 200 Music Chart

By Stacy M. Brown Senior National Correspondent @StacyBrownMedia NNPA NEWSWIRE

Beyoncé has once again proven her dominance in the music industry as her latest album, “Cowboy Carter,” rides triumphantly to the top of the Billboard 200 chart. Released on March 29, the album’s debut at No. 1 marks a stellar achievement for the superstar and stands as the highest-selling album of 2024 thus far.

With an impressive 407,000 equivalent album units, “Cowboy Carter” secures Beyoncé’s eighth chart-topping album, solidifying her status as a musical powerhouse. Fans and critics alike said the remarkable feat reflects her artistry’s enduring appeal and influence.

With her latest achievement, Beyoncé becomes the first Black woman to debut at No. 1 on the Top Country Albums chart, highlighting her groundbreaking impact across genres and the album’s wide-ranging appeal that resonates with audiences worldwide.

Streaming counted as pivotal in “Cowboy Carter’s” triumph, with 232,000 units attributed to streaming equivalent albums. This marks Beyoncé’s most significant streaming week ever,

demonstrating her ability to captivate audiences across digital platforms.

In addition to digital success, the impact of “Cowboy Carter” is felt in physical sales, with traditional album sales totaling 168,000 units. The album’s limited edition vinyl releases also made a significant mark, selling 62,000 copies and claiming the title of the best-selling vinyl album of 2024, a testament to the enduring appeal of physical music. Beyoncé’s chart-topping prowess extends beyond “Cowboy Carter.” She surpasses Janet Jackson to claim the fourth-most No. 1 albums among women on the Billboard 200, placing her alongside icons such as Madonna and Barbra Streisand. “Cowboy Carter” represents the second chapter of Beyoncé’s ambitious “Renaissance” trilogy project, a musical journey that intrigues with its diverse array of collaborators and musical influences. The album’s thematic depth and sonic innovation resonate with fans and critics alike, solidifying Beyoncé’s status as a visionary artist. Reflecting on the album’s inspiration, Beyoncé recently recounted her journey to embrace the country music genre. “Cowboy Carter was born out of an experience that

With an impressive 407,000 equivalent album units, “Cowboy Carter” secures Beyoncé’s eighth chart-topping album, solidifying her status as a musical powerhouse.

I had years ago where I did not feel welcomed,” Beyoncé wrote on Instagram regarding her 2016 performance at the Country Music Association Awards, where backlash on social media was immediate and drenched in racial overtones.

“But, because of that experience, I did a deeper dive into the history of country music and studied our rich musical archive. It feels good to see how music can unite so many people around the world, while also amplifying the voices of some of the people who have dedicated so much of their lives to educating on our musical history.”

FUN PUZZLE FOR YOUR LEISURE

BOOKWORM REVIEW

By Terri Schlichenmeyer

THE BLACK BOX: WRITING THE RACE

issue wasn’t quite as clear.

Nearly 10 years ago, when his granddaughter was born, Henry Louis Gates, Jr. asked his son-inlaw about “the box.” The child, Gates, Jr. says, is “87.5 percent European” and looks white, but her parents checked a box on her birth certificate to indicate that she is “Black.”

“Such is the absurdity of the history of race and racial designations in the United States of America,” he says.

And it’s been that way since the beginning.

Purchased by a Boston merchant upon her arrival in 1761, Phillis Wheatley was taught to read and later, she learned to write poetry. In 1772, her owners endeavored to publish a book of her words but most white people refused to believe that a Black person could write at all, let alone such moving poetry.

One of those white people was Thomas Jefferson, who believed that skin tone mattered in “character, intelligence, and culture.”

Says Gates, Jr., “Black people fought back ... by creating their own genre of literature,” and more than a hundred of them wrote “book-length slave narratives.” Some even went on to lecture about ending slavery. Later, “Black intellectuals” wrote about and discussed the ideas of colonization and emigration. Others wondered publicly what to “call the race” – Black, Afro-American, Negroes, “colored,” or something else?

By the early 1900s, Gates, Jr. says, “art forms were classed” and

Black culture had taken a turn toward “politics of disrespectability” that white people weren’t supposed to hear or see. This later led to hip-hop, and the works of Alice Walker, Toni Morrison, and “the pioneers of the Black women’s literary movement.”

Sit down with “The Black Box,” and you’re going to be there awhile. This isn’t, in other words, a meaningless novel that you’re going to forget in two weeks; no, it’s something that you’ll need time to digest, that’ll make you think, and that you’ll want to discuss.

With a quick reminder of how the struggle to read and write began with the denial of both, author Henry Louis Gates, Jr. takes readers on a journey to show how the written word was crucial in the resistance to slavery and the formation of culture. This leads to a fascinating discovery of how Black community historically diverged from white America, especially in the Victorian Age, and how identity fi gured into it. Readers will also delight in seeing how quietly-created (and quietly public) earlytwentieth-century language and writing created today’s various genres in literature and music.

“The Black Box” takes a deep dive into its subject, so be prepared to ponder. Casual truly doesn’t describe it; in fact, involved would be a more proper label.

Cowboy Carter