NJG | Vol. 124, No. 18 - May 2, 2024

NEWJOURNAL & GUIDE NEW JOURNAL & GUIDE

Special to the New Journal and Guide

More than 50 million adults endure mental illness every year in the United States, that’s according to the latest report from the National Alliance on Mental Illness.

One in six children experience a mental health disorder, with suicide being the second-leading cause of death in children ages 10 to 14. Perhaps surprising statistics to some, but not to Dr. Sheehan David Fisher, a leading expert on mental and behavioral health at Chicago’s prestigious Northwestern University.

Forum notes a 38 percent increase in people seeking mental health care today than before the onset of the pandemic, a staggering leap.

PETERSBURG, VA

Bruce Smith

Voters in Petersburg will decide in a November referendum whether to approve a new joint venture that will bring a casino to the city. The Petersburg City Council recently approved a proposal from Bruce Smith Enterprise and The Cordish Companies to codevelop a $1.4 billion Live! Gaming & Entertainment District, anchored by Live! Casino & Hotel Virginia. The project is expected to generate billions of dollars in economic benefits and spinoff development, as well as create thousands of new jobs and benefits to the local community. Petersburg also considered Bally’s, Penn Entertainment, Rush Street Gaming and Warrenton Group as developers before selecting

The Petersburg City Council recently approved a casino proposal from Bruce Smith Enterprise and The Cordish Companies.

Bruce Smith and Cordish. Authorization of a casino in Petersburg is subject to legislative approval by the Virginia General Assembly, Governor, licensing by applicable Commonwealth agencies including the Virginia Lottery, and approval of City of Petersburg residents in a local voter referendum in conjunction with the November 2024 General Election. Other Virginia cities already approved by the state legislature are Richmond, Danville, Bristol, Norfolk and Portsmouth whose casino currently is in operation. Caesars Entertainment is developing in Danville that’s expected to open later this year.

see Casino, page 8A PETERSBURG CASINO PROPOSAL WOULD BE FIRST-OF-ITS-KIND PARTNERSHIP

Dance Theatre of Harlem Returns To Hampton Roads

Special to the New Journal and Guide

NORFOLK The Dance Theatre of Harlem (DTH) ranks today among the top companies in the world. Long a favorite of Hampton Roads audiences, DTH will perform May 3, 4 and 5th at Norfolk’s Chrysler Hall as part of the Virginia Arts Festival season. Born in a church basement, Dance Theatre of Harlem was a seemingly impossible dream brought to life. Founded by the great dancer Arthur Mitchell at the height of the 60s Civil Rights Movement, DTH

Courtesy

Performances are scheduled for this weekend at Chrysler Hall.

was created as a truly democratic ballet company that would welcome gifted artists who had been rejected because of race. Mitchell had his own calling to ballet as a child in Harlem. His mother enrolled him in tap classes, and then a guidance counselor encouraged him to audition for the High School of Performing Arts. He excelled there and earned a scholarship to the prestigious School of American Ballet –which brought him to the attention of the great choreographer George Balanchine.

see Dance, page 8A

“America is in a mental health crisis, one that has only increased since the pandemic. Everyone assumed things would resume per status quo when COVID-19 was controlled, however, that has not been the case. The pandemic tossed us in the fire, and many are still trying to escape,” says Dr. Fisher.

In fact, the JAMA Health

“If you turn on the news today, you could point to numerous reasons Americans are stressed, inflation, war, climate crisis, the heightened political arena, and its effect on decadesold policies. There is undoubtedly a lot to be worried about, and it seems America is so divided there are days where we are at each other’s throats, but we cannot sustain this level of tensity, it will boil over and we can already see that in many aspects of society,” notes Dr. Fisher. see Health, page 7A

Dr. Roy Hudson, 93, Hampton University’s 10th President, Dies

By Rosaland Tyler Associate Editor New Journal

and Guide

Much has changed since the late Dr. Roy Hudson entered the presidential suite at Hampton University in 1970, rolled up his sleeves, and began to manage the bustling and thriving university from 1970-1979.

The Afros, dashikis and student protests slowly disappeared at HBCUs nationwide and at Hampton. But Hudson also launched initiatives “that expanded educational opportunities and enhanced the quality of education at Hampton University, “ HU President Darrell K. Williams wrote in a recent statement.

Hudson died on April 17 at age 93, decades after he and 13 Black college presidents met with President Richard Nixon in 1973, in an effort to secure more federal funds for HBCUs, according to news reports.

His obituary shows he grew up in Chattanooga, joined the Air Force, and became the first Black to receive a doctorate in pharmacology at the University of Michigan in 1962. He spent years in the pharmaceutical industry, including as vice president for The Upjohn Company, which later merged and was bought by Pfizer. During his vice presidency, he and his wife relocated to several cities including Overijse, Belgium. see Hudson, page 7A

MOREHOUSE’S INVITATION TO BIDEN IGNITES CRITICISM

By Stacy M. Brown

NNPA NEWSWIRE

President Joe Biden’s upcoming commencement address at Morehouse College has ignited controversy among students and alums who have protested the college’s decision to invite Biden. In a recent letter, concerned

President Biden’s foreign policy on the Gaza War has led to criticism among those who oppose his Commencement appearance.

alums criticized Biden’s role in a recent foreign aid package, which included funding for Israel’s conflict with Hamas.

The letter highlighted the humanitarian crisis in Gaza, condemning Biden’s leadership as contributing to the deaths of

over 34,000 Palestinians. The alumni called on Morehouse to stand against injustice and not allow its platform to be used to “launder consent for genocide.”

Faculty members from the three Atlanta HBCU institutions— Morehouse, Spelman, and Clark

Atlanta University – expressed similar concerns, questioning the decision to invite Biden to a historically Black college, especially given Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.’s legacy as an advocate for social justice. “Like any group of alumni of

any college or university, political and ethical commitments among us are not unanimous,” the alum wrote. “There are many among us, however, who stand on the prophetic vision of our most famous alumnus, who said in 1967 that war is a hell that diminishes us all as human beings, and that our moral conscience compels us to speak out against it.” see Morehouse, page 8A

Dr. Roy Hudson

Photo:

The $1.4 billion project would be a catalyst for change and significant urban development.

Photo: Courtesy

La. Supreme Court Oks New All-White City of

St. George

By Stacy M. Brown Senior National Correspondent

@StacyBrownMedia

NNPA NEWSWIRE

Deep-seated racial and economic tensions will be present in the new chapter of Baton Rouge’s history because of the Louisiana Supreme Court’s historic decision approving the creation of the City of St. George. The decision follows a protracted legal battle initiated by affluent white residents seeking to carve out their own municipality from the broader cityscape, citing concerns over governance, public safety, and educational quality.

Encompassing a sprawling 60-square-mile expanse in the southeast of East Baton Rouge Parish, St. George is poised to emerge as an autonomous entity with its own mayor and city council, catering to an estimated population of 86,000 residents. Advocates tout the move as necessary to address high crime rates and underperforming schools.

However, critics argue that the decision heralds the creation of a de facto segregated enclave, further entrenching racial and economic disparities within the Baton Rouge community. It also has all the earmarks of America’s dark history of racial segregation, which preserves the economic advantages and social dominance of whites and the politically powerful, who have utilized legal and societal barriers to maintain their elite status over other communities.

Racial segregation has been pervasive worldwide among mixed-race communities, excluding regions like Hawaii and Brazil with significant racial integration. According to Brittanica, while social discrimination exists in these areas, formal segregation does not.

Conversely, in the Southern United States, the segregation of Black and white individuals in public spaces was legally sanctioned from the late 1800s to the 1950s under the Jim Crow laws. In response, African-Americans initiated the civil rights movement in the 1950s and 1960s to dismantle racial segregation. The movement culminated in the passage of the Civil Rights Act of 1964, which provided robust protections against discrimination and segregation in voting, education, and public facilities.

Meanwhile, the genesis of St. George dates back nearly 15 years, when

residents initially sought to establish an independent school district. Over time, the ambition evolved into a broader push for municipal independence, culminating in a decisive 2019 ballot initiative in which 54 percent of residents voted in favor of incorporation.

Legal wrangling ensued, with Baton Rouge city officials contesting the move, warning of dire fiscal consequences and service disruptions. While lower courts initially sided with Baton Rouge, the state’s Supreme Court ultimately overturned their rulings, endorsing the viability of St. George’s internal budget to sustain essential public services.

Nevertheless, lingering concerns persist regarding the economic fallout. A 2014 study by the Baton Rouge Area Chamber projected a substantial budget deficit for the remaining portions of Baton Rouge, raising apprehensions about the city’s capacity to uphold public services postseparation.

“My goal from the very beginning – and it will always be my goal – is to advocate for a united Baton Rouge,” Mayor-President Sharon Weston Broome told reporters. “I am committed to serving the residents of St. George.”

May 1, 1965 Edition of the Guide

Integration By Fall Or No U.S. Aid

WASHINGTON (UPI)

Public schools that expect to get federal funds must have at least four of their 12 grades desegregated by this Fall and must have completely desegregated by the Fall of 1967, the government announced Thursday.

Detailed of the new “guidelines” for complying with the 1964 Civil Rights Act were announced today by U.S. Education Commissioner, Francis Keppel. Under the guidelines, schools must not only open all classrooms on an integrated basis but school buses and facilities also must be desegregated.

The announcement was made against the background of a situation arising from a confusing provision in the civil rights law that no federal money may go to a state or locality that practices discrimination in using it.

The Office of Education has set up a program or review but many southern school districts and states are in some doubt whether they will qualify for their share of the newly enacted $1.3 billion education program.

Portsmouth YMCA Board Takes 3 Negro Members

PORTSMOUTH

The board of directors of Central YMCA recently under fire for operating a segregated facility has elected three colored citizens to its membership, the GUIDE was informed this week by Guy P. Morris, board chairman.

Elected in the recent regular monthly meeting the new membership of the Central YMCA board is David Muckle, retired Naval yard employee, and civic leader; Williams E. Waters, Principal of the I.C. Norcom High School; and Winston Pearson, a real estate man who is president of the Chestnut Street Branch YMCA.

They are the first Negroes ever to serve on the board of Central Y. The disclosure of the

PETITION URGES BIDEN TO PARDON FORMER BALTIMORE STATE’S ATTORNEY

By Stacy M. Brown Senior National Correspondent @StacyBrownMedia

NEWSWIRE

NNPA

A petition gathering momentum has already netted more than 2,700 of the 3,000 signatures its organizers aimed for, with backing from notable figures like the National Congress of Black Women’s E. Faye Williams. The petition calls on President Joe Biden to grant a full pardon to former Baltimore State’s Attorney Marilyn Mosby, who is facing 40 years in federal prison when she’s sentenced next month on fraud charges.

Petitioners claim the Department of Justice (DOJ) has sought to make an example of Mosby; a progressive prosecutor known for championing change in communities of color. According to the petition, rather than focusing on pressing issues like the Tulsa Race Massacre, DEI attacks, or hate crimes, the DOJ’s pursuit of Mosby and other elected officials has been criticized as a distraction from more significant concerns.

A federal jury in February convicted Mosby, 44, on the federal charge of making a false mortgage application when she was Baltimore City State’s Attorney, relating to the purchase of a condominium in Long Boat Key, Florida. The jury acquitted her of making a false mortgage application to purchase a home in Kissimmee, Florida.

Prosecutors allege that Mosby made a false statement on an application for a $428,400 mortgage to purchase a condominium in Long Boat Key, and, as part of the application, she falsely stated that she had received a $5,000 gift from her husband for the property. The DOJ said Mosby made the false claim to secure a lower interest rate. They said her husband did not

give her the $5,000; instead, she transferred $5,000 to him, and he then moved the $5,000 back to her. Mosby’s record as a prosecutor is lauded in the petition, which highlights her groundbreaking achievements. As the youngest chief prosecutor of any major U.S. city in 2014, Mosby introduced innovative programs offering alternatives to incarceration for nonviolent drug offenders and initiated one of the nation’s few Youth and Prevention departments.

However, prosecutors also won a perjury conviction against Mosby for withdrawing funds from her retirement account, an action her supporters argued that several other Baltimore City employees also took during the pandemic without facing prosecution. Further, Mosby’s supporters say the charges against her are unjust, particularly compared to the DOJ’s typical pursuit of cases involving much more significant sums.

The petition also highlights the role of federal prosecutor Leo Wise in targeting Mosby. The petitioners’ said Wise is known for his history of profiling and pursuing Black elected officials, and his involvement in Mosby’s case is suspect. The petitions also argue that Mosby’s confrontation with the twiceimpeached and four-times indicted former President Trump over potential federal agent deployments to Baltimore following George Floyd’s murder is a catalyst for the subsequent federal investigation against her.

The petition invokes Article II, Section 2 of the United States Constitution, which empowers the president to grant pardons. Advocates argue that it’s time for Biden to rectify perceived injustices, particularly those stemming from the previous administration’s DOJ. White House officials did not return messages this week about the matter.

From The Guide’s Archives

Archives taken from the pages of the (New) Journal and Guide

selection of colored citizens to the Central board was made by Dr. James W. Holley III, president of the Central Civic Forum in the League’s regular monthly meeting.

The report was confirmed by Board Chairman Morris who told the GUIDE that the Chestnut Street Branch Board has asked that two of their number be elected to the Central’s Board.

“But we elected three,” Morris stated.

The election of colored citizens to the Board of Central YMCA came after many months of effort.

Poll Tax Must Be Paid On May 1 For 65 Vote

NORFOLK

A teenage task force is racing against time late this week in an effort to contact 3,800 Norfolkians and urge them to pay their poll tax and qualify to vote in the July primary and November General Elections.

The Tidewater Registration Project Teen Corps, functioning as a telephone brigade, was busy reminding citizens that May 1 is the deadline for paying the poll tax.

Patricia Lynch, Corps president, said that 2,569 reminder calls has been made by Tuesday and expressed hope that 3,800 more could be completed before Friday.

She stated that some individuals were under the belief that if they paid their taxes now, they could not qualify for the July primary. Lynch noted that every person who pays the taxes on or before May 1 and registers by June 12 will qualify for the primary.

Persons who have never paid poll taxes and have lived in Virginia since Jan. 1, 1963 will pay $3,25; and since Jan. 1, 1964, $1.58. Those who paid poll taxes last year will pay the minimum.

Hampton (Institute) Has $5 Million Budget; 5 Buildings Set

HAMPTON

A record operating budget of over $5 million for 196566 was approved at the annual meeting of the Hampton Institute Board of Trustees on

April 25. Over the past five years the annual operating budget has increased from $3 million to $5 million. This increase reflects the growth of the institution and the Increase in faculty and staff salaries.

The View From Tidewater By

Harvey Johnson, Jr.

TIDEWATER, VA

It seems like yesterday, but really years and years ago as I remember. There were four or five of us pacing together back and forth at an outlet of a national grocery chain with signs on our backs advising, “Don’t Buy Where You Can’t Work” and vocally admonishing patrons to “Pass Them By.”

The local police had already “detained” a member of our group. They said it was for loitering not for picketing. So, the rest of us made sure to keep walking back and forth and not block the entrance to the store. Besides it was chilly that afternoon and pacing kept us warm. We were not afraid of the police.

We were not a part of some national movement either.

Just students from a nearby college doing what we thought to be right and hoping that through our efforts the townspeople would get a chance to work where they spent.

So, the people came to be onlookers and not participants. And good onlookers they were, come to think of it.

Many wanting better amusement, stationed themselves across the street from the store and speculated on which of us would be next to get a ride “downtown.”

Suddenly the onlookers began coming across the street and moving toward us and then on past us and into the store pushing us aside as they went by.

Then we noticed the large sign which a store clerk had posted in the window “Come in for free soup.”

Dejectedly journeying back to the campus cold and hungry and bitter, we had choice words for the townspeople who seemed so willing to settle such a big issue for a bowl of hot soup.

But make no mistake, the

Staff Chief Korea Relaxes At Home

boycott will continue to be used here in America as an agent to step up the pace of social change. It has in the past and will continue in the future to be a good thing or a bad thing, depending on the importance of the planning, the extent of involvement, and the justness of the cause.

Seatack Clean-up Contest Will Continue In May

VIRGINIA BEACH

Despite the damp cool weather, the Seatack area cleanup program contest has made encouraging progress, Robert O. Clapp chairman of the Virginia Beach Chapter of the Virginia Council Human Relations, said.

Aaron Parsons and Mrs. Charles Robbins, co-chairman of the cleanup contest, will offer information to residents of the area interested in the program, Clapp said. Local clubs are cooperating with the council

on the campaign. The council is making a survey of the Seatack area on May 1 in cooperation with the Council of Churchwomen to obtain information designed to aid in obtaining an economic improvement project for the community.

“What the War on Poverty Means in Virginia Beach” was the topic at a meeting of the council last week. Present were Keith Williams, associate of the Health Welfare and Recreation Planning Council, and four of the six Virginia Beach representatives of STOP, Inc. Williams described the proposal which the Planning Council sent to Washington in order to qualify the Norfolk area for federal funds. Copies (were on hand) from the East Ghent plan (Norfolk) where the regional proposal likewise centered on using local schools as local points for activities as neighborhood centers.

Marilyn Mosby

Photo: Courtesy

SEN. WARNOCK MEETS POPE FRANCIS DURING NATO VISIT TO ROME

By Rosaland Tyler Associate Editor New Journal and Guide

The Rev. Dr. Raphael Warnock, who represents the state of Georgia in the U.S. Senate, recently met with Pope Francis in Vatican City.

“It was a quick trip, but an impactful trip,” Warnock said of his recent two-day visit to Rome, which he cut short to return to Congress, while federal legislators were approving foreign aid, including $61 billion for Ukraine and replenishing U.S. weapons stockpiles in their fight against the Russian invasion.

“I live every day in this intersection of faith and public life, faith and public policy,” Warnock told the Atlanta JournalConstitution, on his website, describing

SCHOLARSHIP

his recent visit with Pope Francis. “He does it in a very different context. So, as I consider the work that I’m doing in Georgia around centering the needs of poor people, addressing the issue of global poverty and starvation, his is such an important voice.”

Warnock’s visit included a briefing and tour of the NATO Defense College, as well as a roundtable discussion with officials from the U.S. Mission to the UN Agencies in Rome, the U.S. Embassy in Italy, and the U.S. Embassy to the Holy See on the role of faithbased organizations in humanitarian and development assistance.

Warnock was accompanied by Joe Donnelly, the U.S. ambassador to the Holy See and a former congressman from Indiana.

PROGRAM TEAMS FINANCIAL

GROUP & UNCF FOR GRADUATING HS SENIORS

PROVIDENCE, R.I.

Citizens Financial Group and the United Negro College Fund (UNCF) announced recently the establishment of the firstever “Citizens Helping Citizens” Scholarship for high school students. The awards are designed to build accessible pathways, while providing opportunities of cultural awareness, understanding, and leadership nationally for high school students who are pursing postsecondary education.

The program provides $50,000 in scholarship to 10 high school students entering a two or a fouryear accredited college, university, or trade school in the fall of 2024, ensuring students have the proper resources and

knowledge to help them thrive and reach their full potential.

“Coming together with UNCF to launch the Citizens Helping Citizens Scholarship allows us to accelerate our commitment in building a more inclusive future to meet the ever-changing needs of our young people,” said Yvette Vargas, Executive Vice President, Head of Development at Citizens.

“We are delighted to invest into the next generation of students by providing access to education, which fuels continuous learning, skills development, and professional aspirations.”

The ongoing partnership between Citizens and UNCF has provided value beyond the scholarship, with key investments,

mentorship, and workforce development initiatives for students from Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs).

“As UNCF embarks on its next 80 years of impact, partnerships like Citizens and UNCF to establish the Citizens Helping Citizens Scholarship are so vital to ensuring more deserving high school seniors have access to the necessary tools and resources needed to get to and through college,” said Arleaya Martin, Area Director, UNCF New England.

The scholarship application is now open, and all students are encouraged to apply by midnight ET on May 13, 2024. Visit opportunities. uncf.org for more information.

NEW BOOK EXAMINES BLACKNESS AND COMEDY

BLOOMINGTON, IND.

Since slavery, African and AfricanAmerican humor has baffled, intrigued, angered and entertained the masses.

In the recently completed book of essays “Rolling: Blackness and Mediated Comedy” released on April 2, 2024, Alfred L. Martin, Jr. examines the inner workings of Blackness and comedy in media discourse and how Blackness resonates for Black viewers in ways often different from white viewers.

Essays engage with the complex industrial interplay of Blackness, white audiences, and comedy; satire and humor on media platforms; and the production of Blackness within comedy through personal stories and interviews of Black production crew and writers for television comedy.

“Rolling’ offers a rigorous and absorbing exploration of the spaces where Blackness, comedy and media converge,” writes Racquel Gates, author of “Double Negative: The Black Image of Popular Culture.” “Meticulously researched and wide-ranging in scope,

the essays assembled by Dr. Alfred Martin present an in-depth look at the myriad ways that Black humor has operated as a site of catharsis, social commentary, and resistance within popular media. ‘Rolling’ is more than a study of Black humor and media: It is a celebration of one of the most enduring forms of Black culture.”

“Alfred L. Martin, Jr. has constructed the most comprehensive collection of Blackness and humor to date,” writes Adrien Sebro, author of “Scratchin’ and Survivin’: Hustle Economics and the Black Sitcoms of Tandem Productions.”

“Black humor evokes deep feeling, bodily movement, and a cackling laughter from the Black interiority.

Through its series of cultural, industrial and political examinations, ‘Rolling’ requires its readers to confront these emotions and to revisit and reframe theories of comedy that have historically privileged whiteness and heteropatriarchy. Readers of this text are prompted to ask themselves, what does it mean to laugh Black?”

Pope Francis and Sen. Raphael Warnock greet one another in Vatican City

Photo: Courtesy

PROFESSOR EMERITUS OF SOCIOLOGY

VIRGINIA TECH

ME

AND THE NATIONAL INQUIRER

By Wornie Reed, Ph.D.

The prominence of the National Inquirer in the Trump “Hush-Money” trial reminds me of my interaction with the tabloid years ago.

My situation was not as important or sensational as the stories revealed in Donald Trump’s trial; however, at the time, I feared it could negatively affect my academic career depending on the Inquirer’s objective. In 1977, two years after I started my academic career at Washington University, the National Enquirer called for an interview about the television miniseries Roots, which was beginning to air.

The miniseries was based on Alex Haley’s book Roots: The Saga of an American Family, published in 1976. The book tells the story of Haley’s family, from the capture and enslavement of an African ancestor in West Africa through slavery in North America to the end of the Civil War.

Haley had traced his family through many generations. Of course, he described their lives and experiences based on historical events, as there were few historical records of his enslaved ancestors except for the oral storytelling about family members over the years.

The book was usually listed as fiction, but it was often displayed in nonfiction sections of bookstores.

The miniseries was televised on eight consecutive nights. During the first night, scenes of Africans being captured

On the other hand, hadn’t I become an academic to be involved in these race and social policy issues? So, I crossed my fingers and proceeded with the interview.

and treated cruelly on the long voyage across the sea were shown. Since few, if any, such scenes had been shown in publicly available formats about specific Blacks, some African-Americans, especially youth, had predictable horrified reactions. Thus, sporadic minor demonstrations occurred here and there across the country. During the interview, the focus became apparent. They were pursuing the sensational angle. Might not the scenes of the long years of brutal slavery provoke even more demonstrations, like when Martin Luther King was assassinated? A red flag went up. Should I participate with this sleazy tabloid? Would my comments be reported accurately? On the other hand, hadn’t I become an academic to be involved in these race and social policy issues? So, I crossed my fingers and proceeded with the interview.

I had been in too many demonstrations and attempted demonstrations not to have something to say. So, I went out on a limb and declared that there would be no significant demonstrations.

And then I told them why I was so confident. Yes, the more militant Black youth would be angry and

produce minor outbreaks, but no major demonstration would happen because the series was being shown in the wintertime, and big race-based demonstrations were less likely to happen then.

About one hour after the interview, the Inquirer’s Office called, asking me to tell them my location in the next hour so they could send a photographer to take my picture. And then I balked. Despite their entreaties, I refused to have my picture taken. I did not want my picture in that tainted tabloid, and I did not trust what would be published. When I saw the copy of the National Inquirer with my interview, I was relieved in at least two ways. First, I was quoted correctly, which sometimes does not happen with the most reputable publications.

Second, I was pleased to see the names of the other scholars interviewed for this article – two wellknown sociologists, both better known than me. They were from the East and West Coasts, respectively, and I was from St. Louis, the middle of the country. The National Inquirer was seeking scholars from across the country, and they published a straightforward article without any sensationalism. So, I had worried needlessly.

Forcing Polluters To Clean Up Means Hope For Communities

By Ben Jealous (TRICEEDNEYWIRE.COM)

In Waukegan, Illinois, about 40 miles north of Chicago, Dulce Ortiz is celebrating with her children.

Ortiz is a cofounder of the local environmental justice organization Clean Power Lake County. She has been organizing for years to get coal ash waste cleaned up from the site of the retired coal power plant in her town.

The historic suite of power plant pollution standards announced last week by the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) includes a rule that will finally force power plant owners to clean up their coal ash pollution. This is good news for Dulce Ortiz’s family and countless others, including the 30 million people who get their drinking water from the Great Lakes. Coal ash contains toxic pollutants like mercury, arsenic, and cancercausing polychlorinated biphenyls (PCBs) that leach into groundwater. And there are more than 100 coal ash waste sites along the shores of the Great Lakes. That includes legacy sites from retired plants like the one in Waukegan, which left two coal ash ponds and another coal ash deposit.

Ortiz says, “My vision for my family and my community is a lakefront where I can take my children swimming in the

CARRTOON By Walt Carr

OUR SUPREME COURT: HARD TO BELIEVE

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

I listened to every word of the United States Supreme Court Hearing in the past few days. My mind went back to years ago when people seeking justice would say the words “We will take this to the Supreme Court” because we truly believed we would receive some measure of justice there. The last place we want to go today to think we’re going to get justice for women, for Black people, poor people, for Liberals!

I couldn’t believe what I was hearing from the male justices – not even the Chief Justice. As much as I hate to say it, there was no doubt they did not deserve to be called Justices. There was not a word about preserving our Constitution. If it were not for the four women on the Court – Justice Ketanji Brown Jackson (who was brilliant); Justice Sonia Sotomayor (who was awesome), Justice Elena Kagan (also brilliant) and I will give Justice Amy Coney Barrett her props (who gave a little bit of hope with her questions).

As for the men, they didn’t assure us they were sitting on that bench to protect the American people. They made it clear they were there to be more interested in protecting the orange man by almost surely supporting his wellknown habit of figuring out every possible means to delay,

waters of Lake Michigan without worrying about toxic pollution; where we can go fishing without worrying about mercury and PCB contamination of the fish we catch; where I can go running along the shores of Lake Michigan without worrying about air pollution triggering my asthma. I want to see a clean energy future for Waukegan and all communities that have borne the burden of coal and industrial plant pollution for decades.” Waukegan has borne a particularly heavy burden. The predominantly Black and brown residents share their town with five of Illinois’ 11 Superfund hazardous waste sites. That does not include the coal ash deposits. Toxic waste from coal and industrial plants has been a plague for many American communities like Waukegan. One of my mentors, a legendary community organizer in Pittsburgh, once showed me an uncovered coal

And, of course, these pollution standards mark a tremendous stride for public health that will save lives and prevent chronic illnesses.

ash pit there. I asked him where all that waste went when there was a heavy rain. I still remember his response: “nowhere good.”

In addition to addressing coal ash, the new EPA rules also include vital new standards for carbon and other toxic pollutants pumped into our air and water by coal- and gasburning power plants. The impact of these rules in cutting carbon dioxide (CO2) from power plants –one of the top greenhouse gas contributors – will be to accelerate the decline of carbon emissions and our transition to clean energy.

And, of course, these pollution standards mark a tremendous stride for public health that will save lives and prevent chronic illnesses.

The rules will remove economic barriers for some America’s communities that need it the most – in particular, the coal ash rule, as Ortiz points out: see Polluters, page 5A

delay and delay proceedings designed to keep him out of jail by pretending not to know his actions could not possibly be immune from punishment.

Orange man’s attorney didn’t even try to go back before the Court once the People’s Attorney, Michael Dreeben, completed his appearance.

At the same time, Attorney Dreeben was representing the People brilliantly, the orange man was sitting in a New York courtroom where David Pecker was testifying to reasons why the orange man should be convicted for breaking laws the rest of us are required to obey.

The orange man bragged at a rally in Iowa that he could stand in the middle of 5th Avenue and shoot someone and not lose voters. What a pity for him to even say that, but worse to hear the discussion that seemed to be the attitude of the male Justices as they tried to figure out every way possible to agree with him. It was shocking! I

I couldn’t believe what I was hearing from the male justices – not even the Chief Justice.

couldn’t help but wonder what young people who heard that were thinking – especially the ones across the country protesting the killing of thousands of innocent people in Gaza! Many of them are being punished for peaceful protests whether you agree with the reason for which they are protesting or not. It’s not illegal!

While the orange man was sitting in the courtroom, Rachel Maddow says “He sat there looking miserable – like a man who’s old and tired and mad.” That would be okay if he were at all sorry about the damage he’s done to our country and people whose lives he’s ruined. I would pray that wherever he winds up, he would see the error of his ways and see there’s a limit to what he’s allowed to do – how many bad acts he can perform without understanding the meaning of “No one is above the law.” I pray the men on the U.S. Supreme Court would recognize that, too. Dr. E. Faye Williams, President of the Dick Gregory Society.

AIPAC IS AN ENEMY OF HUMANITY

By Julianne Malveaux (TRICEEDNEYWIRE.COM)

Let me begin with the obligatory statements. What happened on October 7, 2023, was horrible. Hamas launched an attack on Israel that some describe as “unprovoked.” But at an AIPAC (American Israel Political Action Committee) conference during the 2020 Presidential campaign, Israel’s Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu bragged about annexing Palestinian land. While decrying the loss of life from October 7, one might also look at the provocation that prompted extreme action by Hamas.

There is another obligatory statement. Israel has a right to exist. But under what terms and on what land? When the Prime Minister encourages Jewish settlers to occupy Palestinian land, that’s an act of aggression. No wonder there are so many angry Palestinians, victims of Israel, who demand self-determination but deny self-determination to others. And if anyone dares question these tactics, they become a target for AIPAC. This rabidly proIsrael organization refuses to recognize that Palestinians are human beings who also have rights.

The organization has

gone after those calling for a cease-fire and peace in the Middle East. They are raising $100 million to defeat progressive members of Congress who do not toe the narrow Israel line. And they are indifferent to the fact that as many as 13,000 children have been murdered by Israel’s aggression. AIPAC and its coconspirators spent nearly $7 million to defeat progressive Donna Edwards because she was not sufficiently pro-Israel. Instead, in a safe Democratic district, AIPAC supported the more moderate Glen Ivey, who was the State Attorney for Prince George’s County. Except for his blind support of Israel, Ivey and Edwards are politically similar, though Edwards’ positions are often to the left of Ivey’s. AIPAC’s political interference meant that Maryland’s Congressional

Voters are concerned about the carnage in Gaza, some so concerned that they may withhold support from President Biden, potentially costing him the 2024 election.

delegation is now entirely male.

AIPAC is up to its old tricks in this election cycle. They’ve targeted New York Congressman Jamal Bowman, Pennsylvania Congresswoman Summer Lee, and Missouri Congresswoman Cori Bush because they aren’t proIsrael enough for them. These are all AfricanAmerican members of Congress who have the best interest of the Black community at heart. AIPAC has placed itself in direct opposition to the AfricanAmerican community, but why should it care about the African-American community?

see AIPAC, page 5A

Ben Jealous

Julianna Malveaux

Dr. E. Faye Williams, Esq. (Ret.)

TO

JANUARY 6TH AND BLM CASES REVEAL SUPREME COURT HYPOCRISY & RACIAL HOSTILITY

By Marc H. Morial National Urban League

(TRICEEDNEYWIRE.COM)

“… it’s notable that the Court felt no urgency to [correct the Fifth Circuit’s error in Mckesson] while it spent the Fischer argument thinking about how to shut down some hypothetical future case where the government may not show adequate respect for First Amendment rights. The Mckesson case, moreover, involved a Black Lives Matter protest, while the Fischer case involved a pro-Trump insurrection. If nothing else, this is a terrible look for the Supreme Court. And it suggests that many of the justices’ concerns about free speech depend on whether they agree with the political views of the speaker.”

– Ian Millhiser

Should protestors be held responsible for criminal acts committed during a protest?

According to the reactions of U.S. Supreme Court justices, it may depend upon the protesters’ race or political views.

This week, the Court allowed to stand a lower court ruling that DeRay Mckesson, a Black Lives Matter activist, could be sued by a police officer who was injured during a protest, even though Mckesson did not commit the assault.

A day later, the justices “appeared skeptical” that members of the mob who attacked the U.S. Capitol on January 6th for the express purpose

Polluters

Continued from page 4A

The new suite of EPA rules is a critical moment in the fight for a clean energy future and the result of years of advocacy. These common-sense safeguards mark the beginning of our next chapter in the fight to

AIPAC

Continued from page 4A

Lee, Bowman, and Bush aren’t the only targets of AIPAC’s ire. They’ve gone after “The Squad,” especially Congresswomen Ilhan Omar (Minnesota) and Rashida Talib (Michigan). And they attempt to define anti-Semitism broadly so that even the slightest criticism of Israel is considered objectionable. But members of Congress abdicate their responsibility to raise budget issues if they don’t question why, even before the April 20 Congressional action sending more weapons to Israel, our country allocated $3.3 billion to Israel’s so-called “self-defense.” I object to my tax dollars being used to murder Gazan children. Those members of Congress who are raising questions are doing the right thing. Those calling for a ceasefire are responding to a moral imperative about the value of human life.

Morial

Marc H.

of stopping the electoral vote count could be charged with obstructing, influencing, or impeding an official proceeding.

In other words, if you organize a protest for racial justice – or any other issue toward which the reigning majority on the Supreme Court is hostile – you can be held responsible personally if a single attendee commits an illegal act.

But if you join in storming the U.S. Capital with the explicit and obvious intent of disrupting an official proceeding, the outcome of which the reigning majority of the Supreme Court personally opposes, you can’t be charged with disrupting an official proceeding.

At least, legal observers believe the Court is leaning that way. A ruling is expected in late June. But the very fact that the Court agreed to hear arguments in the case has led federal judges to some convicted insurrectionists early.

The justices concern that charging violent criminals with violent crimes could stifle the free speech rights of non-violent protestors is especially hypocritical

transition to a 100 percent clean energy economy. And, remarkably, they are the latest in a string of groundbreaking actions by the Biden-Harris administration announced throughout April, which is Earth Month.

The Bureau of Land Management issued a new federal rule making conservation a priority on our majestic public

Israel is using food as a weapon, blocking supplies to Palestine and killing innocent relief workers and people who are simply trying to provide food for the hungry in Palestine.

Senator Bernie Sanders, Jewish himself, described AIPAC as a “platform for those who express bigotry and oppose basic Palestinian rights.” He has described Netanyahu as a “reactionary racist,”

Many in Israel oppose Netanyahu’s strong-arm tactics and would love to topple his government. He has cynically used the war with Hamas to maintain his political position. And Gazan children are dying. While many embrace the notion of an eye for an eye, Netanyahu wants twenty Palestinian eyes for every lost Israeli eye. He has vowed to eliminate Hamas. In practice, he is attempting to eliminate Palestine with his aggressive policies toward settlements and his ruthless land grabbing. Negotiations about a cease-fire and hostage exchange continue, but children are dying, and AIPAC is blatantly indifferent. Conscientious members of Congress –

By Stacy M. Brown Senior National Correspondent @StacyBrownMedia

NNPA NEWSWIRE

The justices concern that charging violent criminals with violent crimes could stifle the free speech rights of nonviolent protestors is especially hypocritical ...

in light of the fact that it’s illegal even to stand in a protest in the Supreme Court Building or grounds.

The sad fact is, Donald Trump wants the January 6 insurrectionists released, so the Supreme Court will do what it can to release them. Trump wants racial justice protestors to suffer, so the Court will do what it can to compound their suffering.

Will the justices be concerned for First Amendment rights of peaceful protestors when they are shot in the legs or expelled from the country, as Trump has advocated? Will they defend the due process rights of the accused when Trump fulfills his vow to criminally prosecute political adversaries?

The question isn’t whether the Court will find a legal justification for doing Trump’s bidding, or whether it even will try. The question is how far will the Court go to appease his vengeful, authoritarian whims.

lands. The Department of the Interior announced new protections for 13 million acres of land in the Western Arctica from oil drilling. That is just to name a couple. What a way to celebrate Earth Month!

Ben Jealous is the Executive Director of the Sierra Club and a Professor of Practice at the University of Pennsylvania.

Bowman, Lee, Bush, Talib, Omar, and others- are targeted because they dare ask questions. AIPAC’s bullying may help, not hurt, these progressive legislators as their supporters are rallying around them. Summer Lee raised more than a million dollars in response to AIPAC’s attacks, and they’ve decided to stop targeting her.

Voters are concerned about the carnage in Gaza, some so concerned that they may withhold support from President Biden, potentially costing him the 2024 election. I consider AIPAC and its affiliated groups enemies of humanity and decency. Their take-no-prisoners support for Israel ignores the humanity of the Palestinian people. Their fatwa against those who criticize Israel amounts to censorship. As the conflict continues to rage and more children die, Israel has much to be ashamed of. They are aided and abetted by the powerful AIPAC lobby that believes that Israel can do no wrong.

Dr. Julianne Malveaux is an economist, author and educator.

U.S. Coast Guard Capt. Zeita Merchant has made history as the first Black female admiral in the service’s 233-year history. Admiral Merchant, previously the commander of Sector New York, will now lead the Coast Guard Personnel Service Center in Washington, D.C., where she will oversee recruitment and scholarships.

Merchant said she initially joined the Coast Guard with the intention of financing her medical school education. “I always had this passion for service, but I never thought it would be in the form of military service. I really feel like this is God’s plan and not my plan,” she told the Clarion Ledger newspaper in Jackson, Mississippi.

Officials said the promotion highlights the Coast Guard’s ongoing commitment to diversity and inclusion. Historian William H. Thiesen notes that African-Americans have played a pivotal role in the Coast Guard’s history since its inception in 1790. “From the earliest days of the U.S. Revenue Cutter Service, Black sailors served alongside their white counterparts, with many making significant contributions during conflicts such as the Quasi-War with France and the War of 1812,” Thiesen wrote in a column for the Coast Guard’s newsletter.

He wrote that the Coast Guard’s rich and illustrious history of AfricanAmerican service is filled with bravery and accomplishment

U.S. Coast Guard Promotes First Black Female Admiral IN MEMORIAM: NATION MOURNS DEATH OF N.J. REP. DONALD PAYNE JR., AGE 65

By Stacy M. Brown Senior National Correspondent @StacyBrownMedia

NNPA NEWSWIRE

Rep. Donald Payne Jr., a Democrat from New Jersey, has died at the age of 65.

Payne had been hospitalized since early April after suffering “a cardiac episode based on complications from his diabetes,” according to a statement released by his office. The statement further noted that Payne was receiving treatment at a local hospital. According to the New Jersey Globe, Payne was unconscious and on a ventilator after suffering a heart attack on April 6.

“With his signature bowtie, big heart, and tenacious spirit, Donald embodied the very best of public service,” Gov. Phil Murphy wrote in a statement on Wednesday. House Speaker Mike Johnson, a Louisiana Republican, and Minority Leader Hakeem Jeffries, a New York Democrat, expressed their condolences and offered prayers to Payne’s family and friends. Jef fries described him as a “highly effective public servant and compassionate leader.” Payne was running for reelection in New Jersey’s 10th Congressional District. He was first elected to the House in 2012, following his late father, Rep. Donald Payne Sr., who died of colon cancer. Payne ran unopposed in the Democratic primary.

milestones. From Aaron Carter, the first AfricanAmerican to die in combat defending the Cape Florida Lighthouse in 1836, to “Hell Roaring” Mike Healy, the first African-American commissioned officer and ship’s captain, Black Coast Guard members have consistently broken barriers and paved the way for future generations.

During World War II, the Coast Guard led the federal government’s first official experiments in desegregation, commissioning its first African-American officers and assigning Black officers and enlisted men to the USS Sea Cloud. By the war’s end, 5,000 Black members had served in the Coast Guard, with one in every five reaching petty officer or warrant officer levels.

In the following decades, AfricanAmericans continued to achieve notable milestones within the service. Thiesen asserted that Lovine Freamon and Bobby Wilks became the first Black graduates from Officer Candidate School in 1954 and 1956. Merle Smith, the first African-American graduate of the Coast Guard Academy in 1966, later received the Bronze Star Medal for his service in Vietnam.

Modern times have seen African-Americans reach even greater heights within the Coast Guard. Vince Patton became the first Black Master Chief Petty Officer of the Coast Guard in 1998, followed by Erroll Brown, the first Black flag officer, in 2002. Jeanine McIntosh earned her wings as the first African-American female aviator in 2005, and in 2009, Felicia Thomas became the first Black female to command a cutter.

Merchant’s distinguished career features key roles such as Special Assistant to the 27th and 28th Vice Commandants of the Coast Guard, Congressional Fellow for the Committees on Oversight and Reform and Transportation and Infrastructure, and Executive Strategic Planner for the Coast Guard Flag and Senior Executive Service Corps. Her educational background is equally impressive, holding a Doctor of Business Administration and a Master of Quality Systems Management from the National Graduate School at New England Institute of Business. She also earned a Master of Public Administration from George Washington University and a Bachelor of Science in Biology from Tougaloo College. When a reporter asked what she would tell her teenage self, Merchant replied, “We get in our own way because we think we don’t deserve the best based on where we’re from. “I would tell my younger self that you got to get out of your head, get out of your own way and the world is truly yours to conquer.”

Congressional Black Caucus (CBC) Chairman Steven Horsford (D-Nevada) and members of the CBC issued the following statement regarding Payne’s death.

“Today, the Congressional Black Caucus mourns the loss of our dear colleague and friend, Representative Donald M. Payne, Jr., and we are holding his family and loved ones in our hearts during this difficult time,” the statement read.

“Representative Payne served the people of New Jersey and our country honorably for six terms in the U.S. Congress. He was an advocate for racial justice, equal rights for all, reproductive freedom, free college tuition, and public transportation. He was also a fierce proponent of improving the lives of working families, expanding voting rights, lowering the costs of prescription drugs, and combating the climate crisis.

With his signature bowtie, big heart, and tenacious spirit, Donald embodied the very best of public service.”

– Gov. Phil Murphy

“Prior to joining the Congress in 2012, Representative Payne, in the footsteps of his father Rep. Donald Payne Sr., dedicated his life to serving his community as a member of the New Jersey City Council, as a president of the South Ward Young Democrats, as a Garden State Parkway toll collector and for the Essex County Educational Services Commission.

“Representative Payne will be remembered by all those who knew him for his kindness and generosity. He leaves behind a legacy and commitment to service that New Jerseyans and our country will not soon forget.” He is survived by his wife and three children.

“Representative Payne was an effective leader in Congress having served as the ranking member and chairman of the House Transportation and Infrastructure Subcommittee on Railroads, Pipelines, and Hazardous Materials, as well as the House Homeland Security Subcommittee on Emergency Preparedness, Response, and Recovery.

U.S. Coast Guard Captain Zeita Merchant

Rep. Donald Payne Jr.

LOCAL KNIGHTS OF PETER CLAVER UNITS

HOST NORTHERN DISTRICT CONFERENCE

By E. Martin Labat Special to

the New Journal and Guide

HAMPTON ROADS

The Knights of Peter Claver is an international Catholic organization that includes the entire family, composed of Knights, Ladies, Junior Knights and Junior Daughters.

The order was founded November 7, 1909, by four Josephite priests and three laymen as a Catholic fraternal and benevolent organization. At the time, African-American men were not permitted to join the Knights of Columbus.

The order is comprised of the following districts: Central States, Gulf Coast, Northern States, Texas, Louisiana and Western States, with the headquarters located in New Orleans, Louisiana.

The Knights of Peter Claver, Inc. Northern States District held their 85th Annual Conference in the Mermaid City of Norfolk, Virginia, April 18 -21, 2024, to conduct the business of their Noble Order in addition to enjoying what Norfolk

and the local area had to offer.

The Sheraton Norfolk Waterside was the host hotel. The Barrett~Newell Council & Court #279 (Basilica of St. Mary of the Immaculate Conception) and Fr. Lloyd F. Stephenson~St. Vincent de Paul Council #362 (St. Vincent de Paul Catholic Church, Newport News) served as the local host units. The last time the conference was held in Hampton Roads was April 2009 and the local council was thrilled for the conference presence in Norfolk. Locally, the Barrett~Newell Council & Court #279 was established in 1986 at the then, St. Mary Catholic Church. All councils, courts and junior divisions are attached to a Catholic church. Council & Court #279 are involved in all aspects of the parish and community life such as the Basilica of St. Mary Food Pantry and Soup Kitchen, Annual Walk for Sickle Cell Hampton Roads, Norfolk State University Homecoming

Parade and Keep Norfolk Beautiful, to name a few.

The conference had 275 registered Knights and Ladies who traveled from 15 states (Minnesota, Wisconsin, Illinois, Michigan, Indiana, Ohio, West Virginia, Pennsylvania, New York, Massachusetts, New Jersey, Connecticut, Rhode Island, Maryland

and Virginia) and the District of Columbia.

National officers attending the conference included Dr. Christopher Pichon, Supreme Knight; Micaela LeBlanc, Supreme Lady; Stephanie Inis, National Ladies Secretary; Marie Johnson, Vice Supreme Lady; Alexander Taylor, National Knights Secretary, and Esohe Asemota, National Ladies Lay Board Member. Northern States District officers attending Marvin Bardo, District Deputy; Kim Proctor, Ladies District Deputy; Daryl Anderson, Knights

District President and Shaniqua Wilson, Ladies District President. The Honorable Kenneth C. Alexander, Ph.D., mayor of Norfolk, addressed the Friday morning Joint Session to extend a warm welcome to the conference attendees to Norfolk. see Knights, page 7A

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.

Mass Procession – Fr. Bozeman, Deacon Finnochio, Bishop Knestout, Deacon Brown National Officers

Photo: ErnestLowery

Court 279 members with Supreme Lady Micaela LeBlanc

Photo: E.MartinLabat

Knights

Continued from page 6A

One of the highlights of the weekend was the conference mass held at the Basilica of St. Mary of the Immaculate Conception on Saturday, April 20, 2024, 5 p.m. Most

Reverend Barry C. Knestout, Bishop, Diocese of Richmond, was the main celebrant for the mass and Reverend Anthony M. Bozeman, SSJ was the homilist. Our theme for this year’s conference is “Fellowship Ultimately Creates Community,” centered on 1 John 1:3, “What we have seen and heard we proclaim to you also, so that you too may have fellowship with us; and

indeed our fellowship is with the Father, and with His Son Jesus Christ.”

Additional clergy present to celebrate the mass included Monsignor Walter Barrett, retired; Fr. Tochi Iwuji, Pastor, Holy Rosary Catholic Church, Richmond; Fr. Peter Creed, retired; Deacon Calvin Bailey, Deacon Mike Brown, Deacon Al Anderson; St. Joseph Catholic Church,

This year’s

conference theme

was “Fellowship Ultimately Creates Community” centered on 1 John 1:3.

Alexandria, VA; Deacon Chris Finnochio, Bishop Knestout Assistant. The conference mass can be viewed at www. basilicaofsaintmary.org “Knights of Peter Claver Northern States District Conference Mass.”

In June 2024, the Northern States District Junior Knights and Daughters will assemble in the Mermaid City for their conference, hosted by Barrett~Newell Council, Court & Junior Divisions.

For more information about the Knights of Peter Claver, Inc. visit www.kofpc.org

For more information about the Barrett~Newell Council #279, contact kpcbn279@ gmail.com

Health

Continued from page 1A

So, what can we do?

First, it’s important to note if you are experiencing a mental health crisis to seek professional help immediately. But it’s also important to note, that you do not have to be in a crisis to seek mental health support. Talk to your doctor or care provider to find the best resource for you.

Sometimes something as simple as utilizing selfcare tips can be effective: make sure you are getting the right amount of sleep, exercise, choose healthy food and drinks, and stay away from alcohol, drugs, and tobacco products.

Another heightened source of stress and anxiety today, particularly prevalent in the adolescent community is social media. Increasing evidence over the last decade has identified the negative effects of social media on pre-teens and teenagers.

“It’s important parents and guardians are aware of the potential harm it can cause and note that many experts agree that limits should be placed on children’s use of social media. Still, just as each child is different, parents and guardians should take

Hudson

Continued from page 1A

Hudson later served as the interim president of Livingstone College in Salisbury, N.C. He also worked at the University of Michigan and Brown University, where he also served as associate dean. According to a 2016 University of Michigan “Alumni Spotlight” piece about Hudson, he never imagined a career in higher education, believing instead he’d become a high school teacher or technician. However, he was awarded one of 50 highly competitive spots from the Danforth

It’s important to note if you are experiencing a mental health crisis to seek professional help immediately.

heed and use the same guidelines when it comes to granting access to social media, just because you feel one child is ready at a certain age, does not mean the same for another child,” adds Dr. Fisher. Dr. Fisher is an internationally recognized research and clinical expert at Northwestern University whose expertise is on mental health, behavioral health, and psychology as it relates to medical health, world events, and cultural topics.

Foundation Fellowship, which allowed him to pursue a doctorate and discover pharmacology. His survivors include his wife, Constance; two children, Hollye Goler and David Hudson; six grandchildren and one great-grandson. According to his online obituary, his funeral was held in Roswell, Ga., the city that he and his wife moved to in 2009. Roswell is located about 30 minutes from Atlanta. There, he and his wife joined Zion Missionary Baptist Church. He also taught Sunday School, and participated in the Men’s Sunday School Class; Men’s Chorus; Scholarship Committee and Drama Production.

Supreme Knight Dr. Christopher Pichon and Supreme Lady Micaela LeBlanc sharing comments from the national organization.

Photo: ErnestLowery

Grand Knight E. Martin Labat, Grand Lady Janice Davis, Mayor Kenneth C. Alexander and Fr. Anthony Bozeman

Photo: ErnestLowery

Photo: Courtesy Dr. Sheehan David Fisher

ODU Humanities Students To Benefit From $5M Grant

NORFOLK

Old Dominion University has been awarded $5 million by the Mellon Foundation to support the creation of the Monarch Humanities Internship Academy. The academy, part of the Monarch Internship and Co-Op Office, will provide the resources necessary for humanities majors to gain onthe-job training.

Humanities majors often face barriers to complete internships, including low or no pay, the need to work to stay in college and the absence of a robust internship infrastructure. In addition, employers may lack an understanding of the benefits of studying the humanities.

The Monarch Humanities Internship Academy will address these challenges to ensure humanities students are included and financially rewarded for internships. The initiative will offer payment for students in fields where employers may not have funding in place to support interns.

“Old Dominion University has boldly stepped forward and made a firm commitment to current and future students that when they earn their degrees and embark on their careers, they will have the necessary work experiences, skills and professional networks to thrive,” said President Brian O. Hemphill, Ph.D.

As part of the award, students in select majors will be asked to seek opportunities with companies and organizations with social missions. The academy will also work with students to create electronic portfolios documenting their experience.

“The positive impact of this will be extraordinary,” said Laura Delbrugge, dean of the University’s College of Arts and Letters. “This means more of our students will hit the ground running when they graduate and join the workforce. We’re talking about career-building, life-changing experiences.”

Also, the award’s focus on social justice dovetails with numerous pillars of scholarship within the College of Arts and Letters, she said.

Morehouse

Continued from page 1A

The letter continued,

“In inviting President Biden to campus, the college affirms a cruel standard that complicity in genocide merits no sanction from the institution that produced one of the towering advocates for non-violence of the twentieth century in Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. If the college cannot affirm this noble tradition of justice by rescinding its invitation to President Biden, then the college should reconsider its attachment to Dr. King.

“Nobody wins in this. Not our precious brothers on campus, who are most certainly being used as a step stool for President Biden’s political

Casino

Continued from page 1A

Petersburg’s Mayor Sam Parham said, “An important part of our evaluation was to identify a development team with a proven track record in developing and operating mixed-use and casino properties, a long history of revitalizing cities across the country, and strong community engagement practices.”

Parham said the Petersburg Council wants to move the project forward “as expeditiously as possible so that we can meet the deadline to get this in front of our citizens for a referendum vote this November.”

The project site is situated at the intersection of Wagner Road and Interstate I-95 with easy access on and off the East Coast’s major northsouth interstate.

The world-class Live! Casino & Hotel Virginia resort destination features more than 400,000 square feet of firstclass gaming, hotel and dining space, to include a 3,000-seat state-of-the-art entertainment venue for concerts, meetings, conventions and social gatherings.

Upon final approval, developers plan opening an initial first phase casino to immediately begin creating jobs, vendor opportunities

The Mellon Foundation grant will insure humanities students are included and financially rewarded for internships.

“The Monarch Humanities Internship Academy embraces ODU’s commitment to work-based learning,” said Brian Payne, vice provost for academic affairs and dean of interdisciplinary studies. “Incoming students will be exposed to internship opportunities at the soonest possible point; we don’t want students waiting until their senior year to start thinking about internships.”

“The real promise of the Mellon investment into ODU students is the support of the value of a humanities education. Some of those key tenets of the humanities are so ideal for employers – skills in critical thinking, communication, cultural competency, creativity and innovation, adaptability and flexibility,” Blake said. “There are multiple industries and multiple positions that need well-rounded candidates, and humanities students have a wide, diverse skill set.”

The investment will benefit regional employers, including non-profits and small businesses, seeking to build talent pipelines, Payne said.

ODU was one of five public colleges and universities selected by the Mellon Foundation for a total award of $25 million to establish paid internships for humanities students. The Andrew W. Mellon Foundation is the nation’s largest supporter of the arts and humanities.

Phillip Brian Harper, program director for Higher Learning at Mellon, said in a release, “The internships funded through these grants will make it clear that humanities study leads not just to jobs, but to exciting career paths in a wide range of sectors.”

ambitions. Not faculty, who are already up against institutional pressures to remain silent. And certainly not Palestinians, who, lest we forget, are the reason students and many faculty are protesting in the first place. We, a group of concerned alumni, believe the college ought to do its part in stopping this genocide by refusing to give President Biden a platform and by divesting from all companies that do business with Israel.

“Should the college continue down this course, we urge our fellow brothers across the Morehouse community to make your dissent known. We urge our community to recall the lesson we all heard over the course of our time at the college, which is that the bells toll for our moral leadership. Justice compels us to work to bring this genocide and brutal occupation to an

end.”

Biden’s foreign policy decisions, particularly concerning the IsraelHamas conflict, have sparked protests on university campuses nationwide. Biden recently signed a $95 billion war aid measure, allocating approximately $26 billion for Israel and $1 billion in humanitarian relief for Palestinians in Gaza. Despite calls for a ceasefire, Biden emphasized the need for Israel to ensure the swift delivery of humanitarian aid to Gaza.

UPDATE TO THIS STORY: As of NJG press time on May 3, Morehouse University officials maintained the university’s position and President Biden’s office reported he was looking forward to honoring the University’s invitation to deliver the Commencement Speech.

Bruce Smith Enterprise, led by legendary NFL Hall of Fame member and Virginia native Bruce Smith, is a commercial real estate firm that specializes in the development of premier mixed-use projects.

and economic benefits for the city.

Bruce Smith Enterprise, led by legendary NFL Hall of Fame member and Virginia native Bruce Smith, is a commercial real estate firm that specializes in the development of premier mixed-use projects. Headquartered in Virginia Beach, VA, the company has developed notable properties throughout the state and the Mid-Atlantic region since its inception in 2004, partnering with Armada Hoffler in the development of the Mandarin Oriental Hotel, The Swedish Embassy, Harbourside Office Building in Washington, D.C., and Blocks 7 and 10 in The Town Center of Virginia Beach, VA.

For over a century, The Cordish Companies has built a portfolio of world-class destinations and projects that span across several platforms including casino resorts, restaurants, hotels, sportsanchored entertainment districts, mixed-use developments, concert venues, and more. The team includes

Dance

Continued from page 1A

Tickets to this weekend’s Dance Theatre of Harlem performances are available at vafest.org or by phone at (757) 281-2822

It was Balanchine, who invited Mitchell to join his legendary New York City Ballet.

It was practically unheard of a Black male dancer on the classical ballet stage. Mitchell gained acclaim, taking on roles that would forever become associated with his grace and strength. After dancing with New York City Ballet in the 1950s, Mitchell performed on Broadway, and went on to create a new dance company in Brazil. But with the tragic death of the Reverend Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr., Mitchell returned to Harlem with the dream of giving back to his community. Partnering with choreographer and teacher Karel Shook, Mitchell cobbled together a company, holding rehearsals in a garage with the doors open so people could see the unusual sight inside: Black people dancing classical ballet. The company made its official debut on January 8, 1971, at New York’s Guggenheim Museum. It was an act of defiance against centuries of bias, and an act of hope for the future. And it was the beginning of an institution that would forever change the art of ballet.

Among the gifted young dancers who found fame with Dance Theatre of Harlem was an astonishing Norfolk-born ballerina named Lorraine Graves. Graves, who passed on March 21, 2024, danced with the company for nearly 20 years, creating indelible performances in such classics as Creole Giselle, Firebird and more, and mentoring many young dancers here and across the nation.

Mini Campaigns: Campaign Within A campaign

substantial investment from prominent minority businesses and individuals with a long history of residing, working, and investing in the Commonwealth, including former Cox Communications GM and philanthropist

Gary McCollum and former Philadelphia Eagle and University of Virginia AllAmerican receiver Billy McMullen.

“Bruce Smith Enterprise and The Cordish Companies are thrilled and extremely honored to be selected by the City of Petersburg to codevelop a $1.4 billion, transformational mixed-use development,” said Smith.

“We extend our thanks to the entire Petersburg City Council for its thoughtful decision to select Bruce Smith Enterprise and The Cordish Companies as development partners for this transformative, world-class destination in Petersburg,” said Zed Smith, Chief Operating Officer for The Cordish Companies.

For more information, please visit https://valive. casino/.

What do you do when you have multiple priorities that you are raising money for? We suggest a campaign within a campaign, otherwise known as a “mini-campaign.” Here’s the real-life story of Valerie R. Harris, Director of Choirs at Miles College, with how she raised over $100,000 for the choir to perform at Carnegie Hall in NYC while the college itself is busy raising $25 million to complete its $125 million campaign.

“I sent out letters to churches – we asked churches to sponsor a student at $2,500. It went okay. It was surprising to see the response. Other contributions came from individuals, sororities, and fraternities – I was pleasantly surprised.” But that confidence wasn’t there at the beginning. “I was overwhelmed and anxious. I asked the Lord to help me. Once I saw how much money it was going to take, I had to be very determined that we were going to get there. I had never done this before. I stepped out on faith, and we did it. Jefferson County gave money, senators and politicians gave great money.”

And she didn’t do it alone.

“Everyone was a part of it –the advancement office was instrumental in helping us, the president, the provost. They were rooting for us and asking people for us.” And she used the most powerful fundraising tool available to her: the Miles College Choir. Harris shared, “We would go out and perform and ask for money ... We did a lot of performances

“This was my first fundraiser. In all my years of being in music, I have never had to raise this kind of money. It wasn’t easy. I learned a lot about people and how they will contribute if they think there is a good cause. They were excited about our going to Carnegie Hall and wanted to be a part of it.” That’s Harris in her own words. While she hadn’t had such a large fundraising goal before, she had no problem asking for money, especially from those who heard the choir perform. They were sold. But she also had to reach out to those who wouldn’t have an opportunity to experience the choir. To reach those people she used a “minicase.” She created a fourcolor deck that she would send by email or U.S. mail, allowing people to “see the choir.”

– almost every week, sometimes two-to-three times a week. People would ask us to come and sing. We would say ‘yes’ and ask them to sponsor a student for $2,500.”

Valerie R. Harris embarked on her first fundraising campaign and met her goal. And it wasn’t a small goal either. She used the tools: prayer, the choir, and the professionals on campus. She wasn’t afraid to ask, and people weren’t timid in giving. As the Miles College Choir heads to Carnegie Hall, Harris offers guidance and support to others, “Before you start, get a plan and then work your plan. Get with someone who knows fundraising –present your plan to them, make sure you have covered all your bases, and then go forth from there.” Harris and her choir did it, and you can too!

Comprehensive Fund Development Services. Video and phone conferencing services are always available. Let us help you grow your fundraising. Call us at (901) 522-8727 or visit www.saadandshaw. com.

Photo: Courtesy

ODU TO AWARD GRADUATES AT S.B. BALLARD STADIUM

NORFOLK

Captain Janet H. Days, Commanding Officer for Naval Station Norfolk, and Lawrence Weinstein, Ph.D., ODU Professor, will be featured speakers for the 140th ODU Commencement exercises on May 3 and 4.

Nearly 3,000 students will receive degrees during two ceremonies.

Days, a 1999 ODU alumna, will speak at the Undergraduate Ceremony on May 4 for approximately 2,000 graduates. She assumed the post as the 51st Commanding Officer of Naval Station Norfolk in February 2023, becoming the first Black woman to hold that position.

Dr. Weinstein will speak at the Advanced Degree Ceremony for graduate students on May 3 at Chartway Arena. More than 600 education specialists, Master’s and Doctoral degrees will be awarded to participate graduates.

Days graduated summa cum laude from ODU with a Bachelor’s

Degree in Business and received her commission through the Naval ROTC.

Her previous positions have included Executive Officer of both Naval Station Norfolk and Surface Warfare Schools Command in Newport, Rhode Island.

“Old Dominion University is excited to welcome Captain Days, a passionate and proud Monarch, as well as an impactful

and trailblazing alumna, as our featured speaker this May,” said ODU President Brian O. Hemphill, Ph.D. “I know that her inspiring message of service will especially resonate with Monarchs as many of our graduates and their family members have military affiliations.”

The Undergraduate Ceremony is scheduled for 8:30 a.m. on May 4 at Kornblau Field in S.B. Ballard Stadium.

In the event of inclement weather, undergraduates will receive their degrees at Chartway Arena with ceremony times to be announced 24 to 48 hours beforehand.

Weinstein in the College of Sciences’ Physics Department will continue the longstanding tradition of having a faculty member serve as speaker at the Advanced Degree Ceremony.

He has taught at ODU for more than three decades and focused his scholarly efforts on studying nuclear physics.

JUNE PRIMARY EARLY VOTING BEGINS MAY 3

RICHMOND

In-person voting for the June 18, 2024, primary election begins Friday, May 3 and will continue through Saturday, June 15.

To vote early in-person, registered voters should go to the general registrar’s of fi ce for the jurisdiction in which they are registered, present their ID and cast a ballot. The location of the general registrar’s of fi ce for all jurisdictions can be found on the Virginia Department of Elections’ website (Local Contact Information). Additionally, absentee ballots requested by voters will be mailed beginning May 3. Any registered voter can request an absentee ballot

either in person, by mail, online (Citizen Portal) or by contacting their general registrar’s of fi ce. The deadline to request a mailed absentee ballot is June 7. Registered voters do not need a reason to request an absentee ballot.

Absentee ballots can be dropped off at the general registrar’s of fi ce or polling location on Election Day. Absentee ballots returned by mail must be postmarked no later than June 18.

The deadline to register to vote and cast a regular ballot is May 28.

Afterward, voters can register and vote through same-day registration and cast a provisional ballot. Same-

day registration must take place in person at an early voting location for the jurisdiction in which the voter intends to register. Some jurisdictions offer early in-person voting at satellite locations in addition to the general registrar’s office. Contact your general registrar’s office for more information regarding voting hours, additional locations and ballot drop boxes.

Voters with questions about absentee or early in-person voting can call their general registrar’s office or the Department of Elections at (800) 552-9745, or email at info@ elections.virginia.gov.

SMALL BUSINESS DIRECTORY

Captain Janet Days

AREA II NAACP ACT-SO VIRTUAL AWARDS CEREMONY

Special to the New Journal and Guide

HAMPTON ROADS

Young talents took center stage, showcasing their exceptional abilities at the Area II NAACP ACT-SO Local Awards Ceremony held virtually on Sunday, April 21, 2024.

The Afro-Academic, Cultural, Technological, and Scientific Olympics (ACT-SO) competition featured 14 area high school students. Hosted by Area II NAACP Adult branches of Chesapeake, Norfolk, Portsmouth, and Virginia Beach, this local program provides mentoring and scholastic enrichment to youth in the Hampton Roads area. It also fosters community bonds and promotes excellence within Black communities.

Since its national inception in 1978 by Founder, Vernon Jarrett, ACT-SO has witnessed the participation of over 300,000 high school students across the U.S. These talented individuals engage across a diverse range of 33 competition categories, spanning from STEM, Humanities, and Business to the Performing, Culinary and Visual Arts. Throughout the year, participants collaborate with community-based volunteers to refine their projects and deliver outstanding performances

This year’s local ACT-

SO Awards included a total of one bronze, two silver, and 13 gold medals.

Jamie Ashby emerged as a shining star, clinching the gold medal in STEM: Computer Science. His groundbreaking innovation and technical prowess set the stage on fire. Meanwhile, in the Humanities category, Richelle Nsubuga’s mastery of storytelling earned her the gold medal for her captivating Short Story. Not to be outdone, Makiah Goodman’s poignant and evocative Poetry earned her a gold medal for her exceptional literary talent. During the Performing Arts category, the stage was ablaze with a dazzling array of performances. Aniya Henderson’s performance in Dramatics earned her a bronze medal, while Jayla Day and Kennedy Savage secured silver medals in Dramatics.

Richelle Nsubuga, Kassan Wellington, Makiah Goodman, and Tremayia Dotson commanded the stage with their performances, each claiming a gold medal. Makiah Goodman, whose talent transcended genres, earning her yet another gold medal in Poetry Performance.

Hannah Paige’s graceful ballet performance captivated audiences,

earning her a gold medal in the realm of Dance. Additionally, in the contemporary dance category, Brianna Creque and Hannah Paige each secured a gold medal.

In the realm of Instrumental Music, Summer Littles and McQuay Morton both secured gold medals in Instrumental Classical. McQuay further dazzled with a gold medal in Instrumental Contemporary. Meanwhile, Tramaine Spruill claimed gold medals in both the Vocal Classical and Vocal Contemporary categories.

In the Visual Arts category, Jazzalin Cassanova secured gold medals for her exceptional work in both Painting and Drawing. Additionally, Olivia Tarrer’s cinematic vision and Emma Woodley’s photographic mastery earned them gold medals in Filmmaking and Photography, respectively.

The ACT-SO Talent Showcase will be held on Friday, June 28, 2024, at WHRO located at 5200 Hampton Blvd., Norfolk, VA. This event is a celebration of the remarkable talents of the medalists, who are gearing up to shine at the National NAACP ACT-SO Competition in Las Vegas, Nevada this July. For more information, contact area2actsonetwork@ gmail.com.

Area TWP Youth Poets Conclude Poetry Festival With ImmortALL Celebration

VIRGINIA BEACH

Teens With A Purpose (TWP) climaxed their annual poetry performance festival season celebrated throughout the months of March and April, National Poetry Month, with an ImmorttALL Celebration on April 27th at Virginia Wesleyan University.

The celebration was the culmination of Teens With a Purpose 15th Annual Hampton Roads Youth Poetry Festival: an event series that is a staple in Hampton Roads’s cultural landscape. During the poetry season, various events were held at different locations in Hampton Roads to offer opportunities that empower young poets to amplify their voices, foster social change, and showcase their boundless creativity.

The Hampton Roads Youth Poetry Festival is more than a local event; it’s part of a national network of youth literary arts and creative youth development organizations, including Urban Word, New York;

Words Beats and Life, Washington D.C.; DewMore, Baltimore; Southern Word, Tennessee; and Youth Speaks San Francisco with alumni including Amanda Gorman, the Poet for President Joe Biden’s inauguration in 2020.

The annual festival also provides young poets who are civically engaged with the opportunity to vie for the prestigious Youth Poet Laureate (YPL) title. This title honors their poetic prowess and propels them to compete in the Eastern Regionals and potentially the National YPL Competition. Prestigious judges include leaders in education, the arts, activism, and government.

Beyond competitions, the festival season is enriched with many school and community-based workshops, and five premier events where young writers grace stages throughout the region with their electrifying performances.

Yet, the essence of the festival transcends mere words; it’s about fostering

connections among young people from diverse communities, backgrounds, and perspectives. It’s about creating a supportive environment where poetry becomes a tool for social change and collective empowerment.

These young poets, or activists, as called by their adult advisors unite around their shared love for words, forming a bond that extends far beyond the confines of language.

Teens With a Purpose was formed in 1996 by Deirdre Love. In 2007, Teens With a Purpose became TWP-The Youth Movement, a 501(c)(3) non-profit youth development organization. The organization is celebrating more than 26 years of experience in providing peer leadership training and has been recognized both regionally & nationally.

For additional information, please visit VAyouthlaureate.org; TWPTheMovement.org, Call (757) 747-2679, or email info@twpthemovement.org

FREE 10-WEEK BUSINESS COURSE OFFERED FOR ASPIRING OWNERS

HAMPTON ROADS

Educational Services of Hampton Roads, Inc. will host a free 10-week Business Plan 101 course beginning May 23 for aspiring business owners. It is being held in conjunction with Dollar Bank and Tidewater Community College’s Workforce Job Skills Training Program. The course is designed to teach an individual how to write an effective business plan and how to start a successful small business in the City of Norfolk and surrounding communities. The course will also include business mentoring, an opportunity to pitch their business to a group of local businesspeople and win $1,000. In addition, Dollar Bank will offer all graduates a Free Business Checking Account.

The course begins on Thursday, May 23, 2024, from 6 to 7:30 p.m. on the Norfolk campus of Tidewater Community College, 350 Granby Street. For additional information, please contact Dr. Tyrone Davis, (Project Coordinator) at (757) 409-9044.

Aniya Henderson

Jamie Ashby

Jayla Day

McQuay Morton

Makiah Goodman

“IAmtheGiftofAct-So”

Summer Littles

Tremayia Dotson

Richelle Nsubuga

Brianna Creque

Jazzalin Cassanova

Hannah Paige

AREA II ACT-SO WINNERS

Kennedy Savage

Olivia Tanner

Emma Woodley

By Bettie L. Thomas Retired Teacher

How true it seems to be

Tramaine Spruill

Kassan Wellington

Second Childhood

My dear mother often said to me “ Once a man, twice a child.”

Daughters and sons help us as our older years come nigh Yes , now the roles have shifted

The walker becomes a constant friend , Aged legs no longer take us from place to place

Gosh, when we eat , what spills we make

Our children now must clean the mess

Gently they wipe the food smeared from cheek to cheek

Oh how fast the hours roll by

Before we know it, it’s afternoon

Time for a much needed nap

Memories of this child’s nap time flash before me

Now she’s my mother, a kind one too

Taking care of me, doing all she can do

How sweet was my slumber during my nap

Now it’s time for my favorite show

Off to the family room I go

Daughter makes sure I have a healthy snack

Then she assures me she soon will be back

The quiz shows are great as they’ve been through the years Yes, I’m here with family without any fears I thank God for family here on earth

As I await the reunion in heaven above

Again I will be with others I dearly love Blessings and thanks to those who nurture me in my second childhood .

If I became a bad girl

If I became a bad girl, I’d change all my clothes. if someone is talking to me I might even doze. If I became a bad girl I’d have bad table manners. I’d even break into an office and break all their scanners.

If I became a bad girl, I’d even rob a bank. I’d also try to bully a kid named Hank.

If I was a bad girl, I’d tackle kids left and right. I’d even scare little children though every working sight. If I was a bad girl I’d ride a motorcycle with ease. But now I’m still a nice girl and I always say please.

SKYLAR WILLIAMS | AGE 9

SUBMITTED BY: Audrey Perry Williams, President Hampton Roads Branch ASALH and Skylar’s Proud Grandmother! by Skylar Williams

PROJECT INCLUSION PANEL TO OFFER BOARD GOVERNANCE TOOLS

NORFOLK

Portsmouth Mayor Shannon E. Glover will give the opening address for a panel discussion on May 7 sponsored by Project Inclusion from 6 to 8 p.m. at the Community Room, 901 Asbury Avenue, Norfolk, 23513. Titled “From Bystander

to Boardroom,” featured panelists will include Del. Jackie Hope Glass, 93rd House of Delegates district; Blair Durham, President/Cofounder of Black BRAND; Tage Counts, VP of Strategic Engagement at the Civic Leadership Institute; and Wayne Bell, CEO of Children’s Harbor

This event promises to empower, educate and equip attendees with the knowledge and tools to navigate the world of Board Governance and gain strategies to navigate appointments to State Boards and Commissions.

• From Bystander to Boardroom is free and open to adults 18+ whether you’re an experienced board member or simply looking to learn more. Light refreshments will be served. For additional information please email Sierrah Chavis at schavis@unitedwayshr. org Regiuster at https:// bystandertoboardroom. eventbrite.com/

LOCAL VOICES

From The Rivers To The Sea

By Sean C. Bowers

The phrase, “from the rivers to the sea” has two vastly different meanings depending on who you are, and who you aren’t and who you are speaking to and unintentionally offending.

No judgement please, both Jews and Palestinians are often wrong by being intolerant of the other’s concerns, perspectives, and right to live, peacefully. Now here in American cities and on University’s campuses like Columbia, Palestinian protesters and supporters are blocking roads and bridges such as San Francisco’s Golden Gate to draw attention to Israel’s brutal response to the October 7, 2023 surprise attack subsequent slaughter.

Their bringing their inability to get along to our streets must be dealt with swiftly and peacefully.

Our streets are NOT the place for their problems to be worked out and solved. They can’t be permitted to bring their inability to get along here to our soil. They have proven to be “the factor” that agitates violence over the past 2000 years. Their right to FREE Speech here is being used to promote “hate speech,” especially on the Palestinian side.

Let’s switch the color assignments attached with the phrase, “From the Rivers to the Sea.” Currently, some Palestinians have openly called for the end of the existence of every last Jew and the entire Jewish state of Israel. Their colors

are green, red, and Black. Some Jews feel the same way about Palestinians and their territory.

For sake of the mental exercise, let’s attach those (nearly identical) same colors to the “Black Lives Matter” movement. If “Black Lives Matter” ever called for Whitey to be driven “from the rivers to the sea” all White America would immediately become incensed.

The reason White America is not involved fully vested and involved in the Israeli/Palestine cause is because of the anti-Semitism that remains and an age-old hatred of Jews. Some of White (only) America is fine with the Arab world uniting against the Jewish State –those same ones who are OK with the phrase “drive them from the rivers to the sea,” (as long as they are the ones, doing the driving.)

Comparing the Vietnam anti-war protests to these Pro-Palestinian protests as anti-war are NOT the same. American youth were protesting BEING DRAFTED into a war persecuting the North Vietnamese people by our American government – all in the name of preventing

the spread of communism. Today’s young people are being fooled into an antiwar protest by the very people who committed the October 7th attack, kicking this whole thing off.

Using that phrase, from the rivers to the sea, in any context is the other side of the hate coin of racism and anti-Semitism which are the kissing hate cousins in the White inbred selfaggrandizing world they orbit earth from.

The same way the Palestinians are wrong to use it, is the same way the Jewish settlement dwellers are wrong to use it against the Palestinians in Gaza and the West Bank. The phrase cuts both, both ways. The two-state solution neither want, will tolerate, or accept, is the only fair resolution for both.

Benji-NOT-BenYAHOO has to be replaced by someone committed to peace. He long ago has demonstrated he is a hardliner and not at all committed to the two-state solution.

Right-wing hard liners in Israel have to see they also must find and support the peaceful two-state solution. That is the only way both sides win and there is no single loser.

Both sides have to want to live more in the future than they want to die trying to kill each other. At this point they both seem determined to try and take anything and everyone down with them. The world is a bigger place than those desert sand dunes. Time, we as a species, start promoting peace across

the board and world. Who can help these two sworn mortal enemies get a lasting peaceful restart? First, they have to want to help themselves, peacefully.

As brothers and sisters of humanity, we have to do our part to pull them back from the brink. We have to do so without allowing their war, to become our war. They are approaching selfdestruction hand-in-hand, mind’s-bitterly-frozen armed-to-the-teeth, in hand-to-hand combat.

“From the Rivers to the Sea” could and should have a much different meaning for all the world if it were used to describe the positive beautiful middle-eastern qualities both nations built and that still exist. From the rivers to the sea could become a peaceful home all could love and live in together. How many more generations have to be sacrificed on all sides before peace’s truth becomes clear? After all, those rivers feed and nourish all of us and the sea’s world-wide community.

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.

Hello and welcome to The Bridge Corner. On Saturday, May 4, 2024, Wilma Horne, along with Betty Warren and Aldis Raymond, will be honored at an Appreciation Luncheon sponsored and hosted by Tidewater Bridge Club. These members are/have gracefully served the bridge club wherever they are/were needed. In addition, Ms. Horn was recently honored by Portsmouth’s Mayor Shannon Glover for being an outstanding citizen (see YouTube: Portsmouth City Council Meeting, Dec. 12, 2023). Ms. Warren and Mr. Raymond were featured in the February 22 – February 28, 2024 issue of the New Journal & Guide.

Do you agree with the bidding sequence of this hand? If not, what do YOU suggest? North is dealer and passes. East opens the bidding with 1 Club. South overcalls with 1 N/T (15 to 18 points, a stopper in Clubs, and a balanced hand. West passes. North bids 2 Clubs = Stayman asking the N/T bidder if he has a four card major suit. East passes. South bids 2 Hearts = yes, I have 4 Hearts. West passes. North bids 3 N/T = I have 10 to 14 points and I do not have 4 Hearts. East passes. South bids 4 Spades = I have 4

Sean C. Bowers

Dealer: North

this week’s puzzle, see page 6B

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

BELIEVERS –Children of Sarah or Children of Hagar? MOMENTS of MEDITATION

Galatians 4:19-31

“Therefore, brothers, we are not children of the slave woman, but of the free woman.” Galatians 4:31

How can people be firmly grounded in the truth about spiritual matters? What can a teacher do when he discovers that, in his absence, those whom he has taught have been led into error by other teachers? Is there any way of bringing them back into the right way of thinking. This is the problem Paul faced with the Galatians. In what appears to be one last attempt to find some way of reaching their hearts and minds, Paul cites the case of Abraham to illustrate the spiritual truth he is trying to convey.

Paul’s Perplexity. Up to this point, the Galatians may have felt that Paul’s words were somewhat harsh. He did not begin his letter with any kind of commendation. He accused them of turning away from the Gospel of Christ to a Gospel at all (1:6-7). He called them “foolish” (3:1, 3). But how his love for them begins to be reflected in his words, as he recalls their first

association and the depth of their mutual love on that occasion (4:13-15). He calls them his “dear children” (v. 19a), a term that conveys the tenderness of his feeling for them. He had earlier as it were, “given birth” to them spiritually, but now his anguish at their wavering faith is so great that he feels as though he is again suffering the pains of childbirth (v. 19b).

Two Women, Two Sons. Using the law itself, Paul reminds the Galatians of two sons that Abraham had by two women. He calls attention to two things that contribute to the allegorical meaning, which he will shortly explain: (1) the differing status of the women (one slave and one free, v. 22), and (2) the differing means by which conception and birth were accomplished (one by natural means, the other supernaturally, v. 23). Do these facts have a significance beyond the historical record? Paul’s answer is yes, and he proceeds to explain it in the verses that follow.

Two Women, Two Covenants. Having referred

to the historical facts, Paul uses them to illustrate the principle that is at the heart of his letter: the superiority of grace over law. He says that the matter he has just mentioned “may be taken figuratively” (v. 24) or, as the Greek says and the King James Version accurately translates “which things are an allegory.”

An allegory, according to one dictionary, is “a representation of an abstract or spiritual meaning through concrete or material forms.” Paul uses the historical facts of Genesis account as an illustration of the spiritual principle that he is trying to teach the Galatians.

Hagar, a slave, represents the Old Covenant of law, which was given at Mount Sinai. Her son, Ishmael, was born by natural means as a slave and represents all those who continue to depend on the law for their salvation.

Sarah, a free woman, represents the New Covenant of grace. Sarah’s son, Isaac, was born by supernatural means as a free man; he represents all those who put their trust in Christ for salvation. Such people look to the “Jerusalem that is above” (v. 26) for their direction.

By this, Paul means God’s eternal dwelling place in

heaven (see Revelation 21:2-3). To illustrate further his view of the matter, Paul quotes Isaiah 54:1. This is a prophetic picture of the glory of the earthly Jerusalem that would be restored following the Babylonian captivity, which Isaiah had also predicted (Isaiah 39:57). Paul, however, sees it as portraying an even greater glory, that of believers in Christ as they enjoy the freedoms of the New Covenant. Two Sons, One Inheritance. Paul has one final word to say about this allegory. Not only were Ishmael and Isaac representative of spiritual

slavery and, freedom respectively, but the relationship that developed between them pictured the relationship that would develop between the proponents of salvation by faith and the legalists. After reminding the Galatians that they were, spiritually, children of promise like Isaac (Galatians 4:28), Paul recalls one additional fact from the Genesis record (v. 29a). He alludes to Genesis 21:9, which reads, “But Sarah saw that the son whom Hagar the Egyptian had borne to Abraham was mocking.” see Believers, page 6B

QUINCY, MA

The Prostate Health Education Network (PHEN) is teaming up with policymakers, health advocates, survivors, and church leaders throughout Florida for its Prostate Cancer Disparity Rally, starting on May 1 through the end of the month.

This Rally is expanded to include church partnership outreach and free prostate cancer screening. PHEN is purchasing radio advertisements on stations in Tallahassee, Orlando, Jacksonville, and Tampa to air recorded messages by these leaders.

These messages aim to raise prostate cancer knowledge and awareness for Black men who are 70 percent more likely to be diagnosed with prostate cancer than all other men and more than twice as likely to die from it. PHEN will also promote these messages with an aggressive social media campaign.

“In my area of family medicine, we always talk about your blood pressure, your blood sugar, your

blood cholesterol, but there is another very important number for Black men and that is your PSA number,” said Dr. Floyd B. Willis. In his recorded video message, Willis encourages men diagnosed with prostate cancer to visit the PHENPath.com website to learn about their treatment options.

“Knowledge about your prostate cancer treatment options is key,” said Justice James E.C. Perry, 85th Justice of the Florida Supreme Court, in his recorded PSA. “I know. I’m a oneyear survivor.”

The expanded portion of this Rally includes a program in conjunction with the 30th Anniversary Retreat for the AME Sons of Allen, which will be held on May 17th at the New Bethel AME Church in Quincy, FL (Rev. Charles Morris, Pastor).

PHEN will provide free prostate cancer screenings in partnership with the Prostate Conditions Education Council (PCEC).

Also, a presentation and panel discussion will be hosted by PHEN

focusing on “New Church Strategies for Addressing the Prostate Cancer Crisis Among Black Men.”

“Over the last two decades, PHEN has partnered with more than a thousand churches to spread prostate cancer awareness and community education through early detection screening opportunities, symposiums, the Daddy’s Boys Play, Father’s Day rallies, health fairs, and more,” said PHEN President and Founder Thomas A. Farrington.

“The AME Church is partnering with us to provide ‘ever-present’ prostate cancer educational resources, through technology, to its churches. This expanded rally program with the Sons of Allen kicks this effort off.” Visit PHENAMEChurch.org for more information.

PHEN’s Disparity Rally first began in 2021. The Rally has since been conducted in 24 cities and 15 states, reaching more than 19 million people via radio, social media, and virtual Town Hall meetings.

CHURCH ADs & DIRECTORY

BOOKWORM REVIEW

By Terri Schlichenmeyer

THE SWANS OF HARLEM: FIVE BLACK BALLERINAS,

FIFTY YEARS OF SISTERHOOD, AND THE RECLAMATION OF A GROUNDBREAKING HISTORY

Not one movement is wasted. Every turn of wrist, every finger curl, every softly curved step is loaded with meaning. Though there are no words to accompany this dance, the story it tells comes through loudly. You can’t take your eyes off the ballerina on the stage, or her elegance or, in the new book “The Swans of Harlem” by Karen Valby, her history-making presence.

In the 1950s, long before the Civil Rights Movement, little Black girls could certainly be found in ballet classes in America but their dreams were always squashed. They were pointed toward jazz or modern dance in short order, or were bluntly told that they’d never be ballerinas.

Dancer Arthur Mitchell didn’t listen to that.

“The Swans of Harlem: Five Black Ballerinas, Fifty Years of Sisterhood, and the Reclamation of a Groundbreaking History” by Karen Valby ©2024, Pantheon $29, 304 pages

“His work ethic was his superpower,” says Valby, and when presented with an opportunity with The Harlem School of the Arts, he seized it. He would “build an internationally renowned school that would” show the world that ballet had nothing to do with skin color. He started looking for dancers. Lydia Abarca was still a teenager when she met Mitchell, and she ultimately became his go-to dancer at the Dance Theatre of Harlem (DTH). Llanchie Stevenson would dance for Mitchell until she converted

to Islam as an adult. GayleMcKinney-Griffith left Julliard to dance for him.

Twenty-seven-year-old Sheila Rohan was much older than most beginner ballerinas; she was also the mother of three kids but with the help of an older sister, she joined the DTH. Marcia Sells moved to New York City from Ohio to dance; Karlya Shelton came from Denver.

Says Valby, it would’ve been so easy for any of them to go home when things got hard, to return to their families, and re-start live anonymous lives. Instead, they stayed for the “next curtain rising” and to blaze a path ...

Not long ago, many sources insisted that Misty Copeland was “the first Black ballerina.” It was, says author Karen Valby, all “Misty Copeland, Misty Copeland, Misty Copeland ...” Yes, it’s true that Copeland was “the first African-American woman to be promoted to principal dancer at American Ballet Theatre.” She wasn’t the

FUN PUZZLE FOR YOUR LEISURE

first Black ballerina, though. Not by a long shot, and “The Swans of Harlem” sets the record straight.

Valby begins by reminding readers what was at stake when her five ballerina subjects launched their careers, despite racism – but how they endured racial bias from beyond the curtains is just half the story. Valby touches lightly upon their private lives, and heavier on the trouble they had with their mercurial teacher who is, not-so-surprisingly, celebrated. So are many beloved male “danseurs,” some of whom died during the AIDS epidemic.

For the record, Copeland, too, is lauded here. And that’s pretty appealing, because readers who expect rivalry, clawsout, and divahood in a tale like this will happily find less than they might predict. Instead, you’ll find a story that you’ll be glad you know now, one you’ll be satisfied to have read. So find “The Swans of Harlem.” You want it, so don’t waste a minute.

Believers

Continued from page 4B

Paul observes, “It is the same now” (Galatians 4: 29b – i.e., the Judaizers are ‘out to get” Christian believers, to entice them away from faith in Christ and back into legalism or if that fails, to persecute them. But there is more to the story. The Genesis account continues (Genesis 21:10) with a verse that Paul quotes verbatim (Galatians 4: 30). It records Sarah’s demand that Abraham exile Hagar and Ishmael. Because they are slaves, she argues, they will never share in the inheritance that belongs to Isaac, so why should they be allowed to stay around and be a source of continuing irritation to her and her son?

Despite Abraham’s reluctance, he did as Sarah requested (Genesis 21: 11 – 14). Paul understands this to mean that, in the final analysis, there can be no compromise between the gospel of grace and the teaching of legalism. Those who are “children of the free woman” (Christians) have to separate themselves from those who are “children of the slave woman” (Judaizers). It is through faith alone that we can enter into our spiritual inheritance. At last, Paul has completed his series of arguments to persuade the Galatians of their need to return to the Gospel that he had preached and which they had believed. In the rest of the letter, he builds on this foundation as he describes what a life of spiritual freedom should be like.

FILM REVIEW: SHIRLEY

By Dwight Brown Film Critic

(2 1/2 Stars)

She was a pioneer. A political warrior. A woman who’s earned an esteemed place in herstory.

After Frederick Douglas (1848), Edwin Taylor (1904) and Channing E Phillips (1968). Before Jesse Jackson (1984), Alan Keyes (1992) and Barack Obama (2008). There was Shirley Chisolm (1972). All vied to be president of the United States. She was the only Black woman who dared to enter the ring. First Black candidate vying for a major-party nomination. First woman to run for the Democratic Party’s presidential nomination. Distinctions that deserve more than just an honorable mention. Giving Shirley Chisolm her due has been a passion project for actress/producer Regina King (If Beale Street Could Talk) and her producing partner and sister Reina King. Their love and respect for Shirley is in every frame of their bio/dra/history film. Respectively the movie chronicles Chisolm’s first days in Congress as a U.S. representative from New York City’s 12th district, which includes Brooklyn’s Bedford Stuyvesant. Then recounts her decision to run for president and all the roadblocks that ensued. What it doesn’t do is give the audience her backstory. Early events that would help viewers understand how she got her drive, ambition and keen ability to stand up to bullies. Many biofilms just show a section of their subject’s life. A segment or period that’s usually the most profound. E.g., Bob Marley: One Love concentrated largely on the making of his classic album Exodus. But he’s a world-famous figure. Chisolm is not. Viewers will yearn to know more about her childhood, academic accomplishments (Columbia University graduate) and early career.

In the paint-by-numbers script, as written by writer/ director John Ridley, historical characters are assembled, and Chisolm’s journey is charted. The depth of the characters is never more than surface. The rivalries, jealousies, saviors, detractors, supporters and backstabbers too. Don’t fault the actors, they give solid-toexcellent performances. But none are better than the words on the page. Except King. When Shirley expresses her intentions to run, her campaign advisor, Wesley McDonald “Mac” Holder (Lance Reddick, The Wire), is blunt: “Shirley if you run you can’t win.” Shirley chides him: “Well not with that attitude!” And so, she builds her inner circle: Arthur Hardwick Jr., (Terrence Howard), who’d served with Shirley in the New York State Legislature helps with strategy. Stanley Townsend (Brian Stokes Mitchell) campaign manager. Robert Gottlieb (Lucas Hedges, Manchester by the Sea), a white Cornel law

student becomes her student organizer. While Barbara Lee (Christina Jackson, Devotion), Chisolm’s young protégée, acts as her liaison to the Black community and a link to the influential Black Panthers. The direction seems perfunctory. No great artistry exhibited. No huge mistakes made. Ramsey Nickell’s (American Crime) camerawork captures the athome and tense confrontations between Shirley and her overly understanding husband and head of security Conrad (Michael Cherrie). An awkward outdoor meeting between Shirley and Huey at the home of Diahann Carroll (Amirah Vann, Underground) is displayed, too. Shirley “I’m going to force all the politicians to earn our votes!” Huey: “You gonna to do all that? Schoolteacher from Brooklyn?” Shirley: “Yes I am just a schoolteacher from Brooklyn, and Harriet was just a slave.” In general, the dialogue is thoughtful. But it’s likely these conversations are not verbatim, and at times seem too manufactured. All production elements are adequate for a TV movie: production design Dina Goldman; costumes Megan Coates; set decoration Jon L. Bush and Imogen Lee and art direction Danny Brown. That’s minus some parts of the soundtrack that seem like place holder music, and not a score. A theatrical release would expose flaws. A Netflix release on the little screen is just right. Plot pieces, peaks and valleys are pulled together decently. Slowly it all starts to gel, build momentum and become educational and fascinating. But there isn’t a real climax. No satiating crescendo. Through it all, Regina King releases a fire that retrieves the spirit of Shirley Chisolm from the less-read pages of history books. The accent, courage and determination are all in King’s bravura performance. She was right to champion this production. For Chisolm’s sake, and as a showcase for her supreme talent. Another acting kudo goes to Terence Howard who shows great restraint as Arthur Hardwick, Jr., the voice of reason. His performance is nuanced. Magnetic in the most subtle way. This is a history lesson worth learning. A political shero worth knowing. Some viewers will wish Chisolm’s legacy was kept alive in a more unique and distinguished way. While some will be grateful for any introduction to her groundbreaking achievements.

Regina King as Shirley Chisolm