Author: Carma Henry

       As we close out 2024, I reflect on a year filled with challenges, growth, and monumental achievements. Our community has faced immense struggles but also celebrated historic milestones, reminding us of the resilience and brilliance that defines us.

       President Joe Biden announced that he would honor 20 Americans with the Presidential Citizens Medal during a ceremony at the White House. Among the recipients were Mississippi Congressman Bennie Thompson and former Wyoming Congresswoman Liz Cheney, who co-led Congress’ investigation into the January 6, 2021, attack on the U.S. Capitol.

       Nestled in the heart of the rolling hills, where snowflakes dance in the winter breeze and twinkling lights illuminate every corner lies the enchanting town of Fabville. This quaint Christmas village isn’t like any other holiday destination; it’s a place born from a dream, a dream that began when its creator, Sharonshesofabulous, was just a child. “I can remember being a little girl who was in awe of a tiny village that sat on the coffee table of one of the older ladies in my neighborhood. I remember promising myself that one day I would have a Christmas village just like it one day.”, Sharon said.

The Mississippi Valley State University marching band faces backlash after accepting an invitation to perform at Donald Trump’s inauguration.

       In two landmark cases that hope to reshape the future for Black student-athletes at Historically Black Colleges and Universities, a group of former athletes has challenged the National Collegiate Athletic Association’s Academic Performance Program (APP) in court. The plaintiffs argue that the APP not only impacts their athletic opportunities but is rooted in a system of racial discrimination that has persisted for far too long. With the groundwork laid and momentum building, there is an urgent call for HBCU student-athletes to support this pivotal fight.

The 16th Annual Boating & Beach Bash for People with Disabilities – the nation’s largest, free, one-day event for people with disabilities, both seen and unseen – will again welcome back families who love the beach, boat rides and fun! Presented by the American Disabilities Foundation (ADF), the Bash returns to Boca Raton’s Spanish River Park, which is conveniently located between the Atlantic Ocean and the Intracoastal Waterway to give guests easy access to the beach and free boat rides.

       Mufasa (Braelyn Rankins), a small lion cub, is separated from his parents during a natural disaster. He washes up on a riverbank and is saved by another cub, Taka (Theo Somolu). His rescuer, a prince, brings him back to his pride. Esche (Thandie Newton), Taka’s mom, wants to nurture the orphan. Obasi (Lennie James), his dad the king, thinks the interloper should be eaten or banished. Of course, mom wins out.

Despite a strong effort and leading early, Florida A&M fell to Bethune-Cookman 62-55 in their SWAC opener at the Al Lawson Center. The Rattlers (3-9, 0-1 SWAC) started hot, building a 10-point lead at 12-2 in the first half behind strong play from Milton Matthews, who finished with a team-high 20 points, including 4-11 from three-point range.

The 17th Judicial Circuit is pleased to announce that Trial Court Administrator Joseph D’Amico has been named co-editor of Court Manager, a national publication that focuses on ethics and the courts, technology and the judiciary and court management issues.

     Trade assistance for Haiti, negotiated by Florida lawmakers, failed to survive a three-day dash before Christmas to keep the federal government running.