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

       Sheila Cherfilus-McCormick, a South Florida congresswoman, has entered a not guilty plea in a federal case involving an alleged $5 million overpayment of COVID-19 disaster funds to a healthcare company operated by members of her family.

       Broward County Public Schools (BCPS) honored its most outstanding educators and employees during the 2026 Caliber Awards on Friday, February 6, at the Broward County Convention Center. The red-carpet event recognized over 500 nominees for their leadership, innovation, and dedication, with 16 finalists receiving top honors. More than 1,100 community leaders, business partners, educators, and supporters attended the celebration.

   There’s a saying I heard not long ago that settled deep into my spirit: “You will never be used greatly until you have been wounded deeply.” At first, it sounded poetic. Yet, the more I replayed it against my own life, the unexpected losses, the disappointments, the moments of confusion, and the seasons I didn’t think I would survive, the more I realized there was truth in those words.

       The City of Fort Lauderdale has officially declared that National Black History Month is, and will remain, an annual observance within the city. This landmark proclamation, issued by District 3 Commissioner Pamela Beasley-Pittman on February 3, 2026, solidifies the city’s permanent commitment to celebrating the culture, heritage, and resilience of the African American community.

     Heart conditions seldom make their presence known with loud warnings or obvious signals. Often, it starts in a hushed manner–subtle changes in breathing, energy, or pace that can easily go unnoticed in the hustle and bustle of everyday life. These first warning signs, though easy to miss, might be the body’s first subtle indicators that something isn’t quite right. Let’s explore how heart conditions can develop unnoticed, why early detection is critical, how recognizing even the slightest signs can mean the difference between preventing a crisis and experiencing one, and lifestyle adjustments that can reduce risk.

       On January 29, 2026, Donald Trump reaffirmed this legacy in yet another executive order, released under the title Fact Sheet: Threats to the United States by the Government of Cuba. In this latest assault on Cu-ban sovereignty, Trump announced his intention to “put America first” by declaring a national emergency and imposing punitive tariffs on countries that sell or other-wise provide oil to Cuba. The order authorizes additional tariffs on imports from any country that directly or indirectly supplies oil to Cuba—an act of collective punishment dressed up as national security policy.