Author: Carma Henry

Carma Lynn Henry Westside Gazette Newspaper 545 N.W. 7th Terrace, Fort Lauderdale, Florida 33311 Office: (954) 525-1489 Fax: (954) 525-1861

       I remember the song by OutKast BoB— bombs over Baghdad, tensions with Iran, instability in the Middle East as if the danger is always somewhere else. Yet right here at home, while we’re holding primary elections, voter suppression and disenfranchisement are moving with precision. The strategy no longer feels like winning votes it feels like stopping them.

       From a teen perspective, learning about Wendell Scott feels like discovering a hero who refused to let history box him in. When most people picture early stock car racing, they don’t imagine a Black driver fighting for space on the track, but Scott did exactly that. He raced during a time when opportunities weren’t just limited; they were actively blocked. Still, he showed up with skill, confidence, and a determination that said, I belong here too.

        Some journeys don’t begin with a plan. They begin with a nudge. A conversation. Someone saying, “You’re ready,” even when you’re not completely sure you are. That’s how my path into the National Forum for Black Public Administrators (NFBPA) began, unexpectedly, without a roadmap, but fueled by encouragement. I said yes without knowing exactly where the road would lead. What I’ve learned since is that the road doesn’t always make sense at first, but it stretches you in the ways you need most.

     Cannabis is poised to be a major issue in 2026, as a federal effort to lower its classification moves forward and some states face initiatives to roll back adult-use laws. In Florida, lawmakers are weighing changes to medical marijuana policy, while a proposed constitutional amendment to legalize recreational marijuana failed to qualify for the November ballot.

       We recently received a meaningful donation in support of our School Safety Project from Lori Alhadeff, CEO and founder of Make Our Schools Safe, a nationally recognized school safety organization. Ms. Alhadeff’s advocacy work and continued commitment to protecting students nationwide made this contribution especially impactful for our school community.

  Carolyn Homer made her exit from the world peacefully on February 24, 2026 early morning, exact time unknown. Mother to 4 children (Rachel Johnson, Mitchell Johnson (deceased), Vincent Johnson, and Theophilus Powell aka Theo). Grandmother to 5 (Jasmine Johnson, Latoya Johnson (deceased), Jalyssia Williams, Jakia Williams and Vanicka Johnson); she was the eldest of 12 Siblings.

  Empowered To Thrive Inc., founded by Deetra Sands Durham, is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization committed to building meaningful partnerships and sharing knowledge, awareness, and essential services to support all women affected by cancer particularly minority women who often face disparities in care and re-sources.