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

Today, the American Federation of State, County and Municipal Employees (AFSCME) released the first episode of I AM Story, a new podcast detailing the history and legacy of the 1968 Memphis sanitation workers’ strike. The comprehensive series examines the origins of the strike and events leading up to the death of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr., who was assassinated on this day 55 years ago while in Memphis supporting the strikers.  

As a first-generation American of immigrant parents from Jamaica, Rachelle Alexander’s story is a testament to the power of hard work and determination. Despite facing adversity and doubters, she never lost sight of her goal of becoming a doctor and has become a trailblazer for other minority women pursuing medicine.

     Our Big Sister Lurine Waugh gave us the title of our book, “The Battle Is Not Yours…Give It To The Lord.” As she battled cancer, Lurine still held strong to her faith in God until her last breath. We thank God for her profound prayers and display of courage and trust during her battle.

A House panel Monday unanimously approved a proposal that would allow Medicaid beneficiaries with “serious” mental illness to avoid a drug practice known as step therapy. The House Health Regulation Subcommittee voted 17-0 to approve the bill (HB 183), sponsored by Rep. Karen Gonzalez Pittman, R-Tampa.

Pointing to COVID-19 restrictions imposed in other states, Florida lawmakers Monday began moving forward with a proposal that would require legislative approval of extended public-health emergencies.

“HBCUs create economic opportunity both for their students and throughout the communities they serve,” said HUD Secretary Marcia Fudge. “At HUD, we are proud to partner with HBCUs to expand the voices in the housing research space to support strong communities, build affordable housing, create job opportunities, revitalize neighborhoods, and promote homeownership.”

      The Florida Office of Insurance Regulation last week posted data about property-insurance policies as of Dec. 31. Here were the insurers with the most residential policies at the end of 2022: