Nashville PRIDE October 6, 2023

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volume XXXvII, Number 40

People Are Talking 27 years later – suspect arrested in murder of Tupac Shakur

Duane Keith Davis

by Lauren Victoria Burke, NNPA Newswire contributor Twenty-seven years after the death of one of the most noted rappers in history of the genre, a man has been arrested for the murder of rapper Tupac Shakur.

As the years have gone by some suspects have come into the news while others have passed away. But on September 29, a man named Duane Keith Davis was arrested in Las Vegas and charged in connection with the murder of Shakur.

The rapper and actor was killed on September 13, 1996 in Las Vegas, at the age of 25, after being shot four times. He died less than a week later at the University Medical Center of Southern Nevada. Since then, Shakur’s death has lingered on as a mystery that has never been brought to a conclusion.

Davis is a member of the California-based gang known as The South Side Compton Crips and was a childhood friend of N.W.A. member Eazy-E. During the early '90s, Davis built a friendly relationship with Sean ‘Diddy’ Combs. Rumors that someone would be charged in Shakur’s death have swirled for years with no arrests made.

Tupac's life was short but marked by artistic achievement in music and acting. His family moved to Baltimore and he attended the Baltimore School for the Arts, where he studied acting, poetry, jazz, and ballet.

In the late 1980s, Tupac moved to California, where he joined the hip-hop group Digital Underground as a backup dancer and rapper. He gained recognition for his skills and charisma on stage.

In addition to his storied music career, Shakur pursued acting and appeared in films such as Juice (1992), Poetic Justice (1993), Above the Rim (1994), and Gridlock'd (1997).

He received praise for his acting talent.

Tupac Shakur was born in East Harlem to Afeni Shakur, a former Black Panther, and Billy Garland. He was given the name Lesane Parish Crooks at birth but later changed it to Tupac Amaru Shakur after he was inspired by the 18th-century Peruvian revolutionary Túpac Amaru II. (Lauren Victoria Burke is an independent investigative journalist and the publisher of Black Virginia News. She is a political analyst who appears regularly on #RolandMartinUnfiltered.

She can be contacted at <LBurke007@gmail.com> and on twitter at @LVBurke.)

The Nashville PRIDE Newspaper is on Facebook and follow us on Twitter: @pridenews

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“It’s never too late to do what’s right” -TSU President Glenda Glover wants state to pay $2.1B owed to the university

TSU is owed over $2.1 billion by the State of Tennessee.

by Kelli Sharpe The HBCU community is still reacting to the letters the U.S. Department of Agriculture and the Department of Education sent to 16 of the nation’s governors, stating that they collectively owed their respective land-grant HBCUs $13 billion. U.S. Secretary of Education Miguel Cardona and U.S. Secretary of Agriculture Thomas J. Vilsack cited research conducted by the National Center for Education Statistics (NCES) and Integrated Postsecondary Education Survey (IPEDS). Tennessee State University was listed as having the largest underfunding owed amount by a state at $2,147,784,704.

“This enormous figure of over $2.1 billion can’t be overlooked,” said TSU President Glenda Glover.

“We have been on our own journey to recoup $544 million from the state that TSU should have received, as required by law, and were not aware of an additional underfunding review by the U.S. Departments of Education and Agriculture prior to the release of those letters.”

In 2022, Gov. Bill Lee allocated $250 million to TSU, which was approved by the legislature—making it the largest one-time state invest-

TSU student leaders visit D.C. to address $2.1 billion owed

by Alexis Clark Tennessee State University student leaders traveled to the nation’s capital after the U.S. Departments of Agriculture and Education revealed that the university is owed over $2.1 billion by the state of Tennessee.

The group met with members of the Congressional Black Caucus and others to seek answers and support.

TSU SGA President Derrell and Vice President Taylor Chrishonda O’Quinn spoke briefly at one meeting to voice their concerns to congressional leaders about the revelation of the $2 billion-plus underfunding of the university.

“It is unfortunate that we have to fight this battle,” Taylor said. “But I am proud to stand before these legislators, activists, and key community figures to express how disheartening it is for students to realize how much ment to any HBCU. President Glover added this was the result of working closely with Tenn. lawmakers, who conducted their own research and cal-

President Biden announces $127B in student debt relief for 3.6 million Americans

President Joe Biden

by Stacy M. Brown, NNPA Newswire senior national correspondent President Joe Biden’s longstanding push that college “should be a pathway to the middle class rather than a financial burden on families” took a significant step forward this week. The Biden Administration approved an additional 125,000 Americans for $9 billion in debt relief. These measures, achieved through enhancements to income-driven repayment (IDR) and Public Service Loan Forgiveness, along with debt cancellations for those with permanent disabilities, bring the total approved debt relief during the Biden-Harris Administration to $127 billion for nearly 3.6 million Americans.

The approved relief includes: • $5.2 billion in additional debt relief for 53,000 borrowers under Public Service Loan Forgiveness programs.

• Nearly $2.8 billion in new debt relief for nearly 51,000 borrowers through fixes to income-driven repayment. These borrowers made 20 years or more of payments but have yet to receive the relief they were entitled to.

• $1.2 billion for nearly 22,000 borrowers with a total or permanent disability, identified and approved for discharge through a data match with the Social Security Administration.

According to a White House Fact Sheet, the Department of Education is also releasing state-by-state totals of debt relief approved under the BidenHarris Administration through fixes to IDR and Public Service Loan Forgiveness.

In the Fact Sheet, the White House said these actions are part of a broader strategy by the Biden-Harris Administration to ease the burden of student loans and ensure that higher education is accessible to all. Earlier this year, the administration introduced the Student Aid Verification for Education (SAVE) initiative, offering an affordable student loan repayment plan that often reduces monthly payments to as low as $0, preventing accrued interest from increasing balances.

The administration said it had secured the most significant increase in Pell Grants in a decade. It implemented new regulations to protect graduates from career programs that result in insurmountable debts or inadequate earnings. Following the Supreme Court’s decision on the original student debt relief plan, Biden announced an alternative approach through negotiated rule making under the Higher Education Act. Further, the Education Department Continued on page 5

TSU students with Congressman Jim Clyburn. more of an experience we could have had if we had been allocated the necessary funding.”

Continued on page 5 culations to pay TSU nearly half of the underfunded amount.

Continued on page 5

Zoleka Mandela, advocate for cancer awareness and road safety, dies at 43

Zoleda Mandela in 2015. (photo courtesy of <Wikimedia Commons>)

by Stacy M. Brown, NNPA Newswire senior national correspondent According to a family spokesperson, Zoleka Mandela, the granddaughter of South Africa’s inaugural democratically elected President and global icon Nelson Mandela, has succumbed to cancer at the age of 43.

Recently, the younger Mandela had garnered recognition for her candid accounts of her battle with cancer, offering a poignant insight into her treatment journey. She was equally forthright about her history of drug addiction, shedding light on issues many face in silence.

The Nelson Mandela Foundation expressed deep reverence for her work, stating that she inspired cancer awareness and played a pivotal role in dismantling the stigma associated with the disease.

Continued on page 5

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California Gov. Gavin Newsom names laphonza Butler to replace the late Dianne Feinstein in U.S. Senate

by Lauren Victoria Burke, NNPA Newswire contributor Laphonza Butler will fill the U.S. Senate seat of the late Dianne Feinstein. The groundbreaking senator died on September 29.

Newsom's decision was not on the political radar screen of most prognosticators.

With the selection of Butler, the decision of California’s governor will not include any of the currently announced candidates for U.S. Senate in 2024 in California.

Those current candidates include veteran members of Congress Barbara Lee and Adam Schiff.

“As we mourn the enormous loss of Sen. Feinstein, the very freedoms she fought for: reproductive freedom, equal protection, and safety from gun violence have never been under greater assault. Laphonza will carry the baton left by Sen. Feinstein, continue to break glass ceilings, and fight for all Californians in Washington, D.C.,” wrote Gov. Newsom in a statement released on the evening of October 1 announcing Butler’s appointment.

Butler will be swornin to the U.S. Senate this week.

Butler has been serving as the president of EMILY’s List. The fundraising platform supports and funds women candidates and amplifies issues that disproportionately impact women. EMILY's List was founded in 1985 by Ellen Malcolm and founding members Bar-

Sen. Laphonza Butler (photo courtesy of <Wikimedia Commons>) Boxer, Ann is 58, one more Black bara Richards, Anne Wexler, member is all but certain and Donna Shalala. to enter Congress in From 1985 through Rhode Island after the 2008, EMILY's List resignation in May of raised over $240 million Congressman David for political candidates.

Cicilline. Former Biden The move by New- White House Office of som could assist him if Intergovernmental he should run for higher Affairs Deputy Director office in 2024 or 2028. Gabe Amo won the Newsom has been Democratic nomination rumored to be on a short for Cicilline’s seat. list of Democratic candiThe election is on dates who could run for November 7. president if for some Butler will be the reason Biden or Harris only Black woman in the are not options. But Senate. But Delaware Newsom was recently Congresswoman Lisa asked about running for Blunt Rochester is president and switched expected to win the Sentopics to the policies that ate seat vacated by Senahe believed the party tor Tom Carper. Carper should be focused on. announced he would not Laphonza Butler will run for re-election in be yet another addition 2024 and Rochester to the Congressional announced shortly afterBlack Caucus which is wards that she would run now on the brink of hav- for Carper’s seat. ing 60 members for the “Throughout her first time in history. career, Laphonza Butler Though the current has been a strong voice membership of the Con- for working families, gressional Black Caucus Continued on page 5

October 6, 2023

Medicaid Managed Care Organizations face scrutiny over prior authorization denials

by Stacy M. Brown, NNPA Newswire senior national correspondent A recent review of Medicaid Managed Care Organizations (MCOs) has revealed concerning trends in approving prior authorization requests for services. In 2019, MCOs denied one out of every eight requests for prior authorization of services, according to a report by the Office of the Inspector General (OIG).

Among the 115 MCOs examined in the review, 12 exhibited denial rates for prior authorization requests that exceeded 25%— twice the overall rate.

This discrepancy in approval rates highlights potential disparities in access to essential healthcare services for Medicaid enrollees.

Despite the high number of denials, many state Medicaid agencies reported that they did not routinely review the appropriateness of MCO denials.

Additionally, many still needed to have mechanisms in place to collect and monitor data on these decisions. More robust oversight is required, potentially allowing inappropriate denials to go undetected within the Medicaidmanaged care system.

The OIG has recommended measures to improve enrollee protections and state oversight of prior authoriza-

Despite the high number of denials, many state Medicaid agencies reported that they did not routinely review the appropriateness of MCO denials. tion denials in MediIn their official caid-managed care in response, the Centers response to these find- for Medicare & Mediings. These include the caid Services (CMS) following: did not indicate concur• States must regu- rence with the first four larly review the appro- recommendations. priateness of a sample However, they agreed of MCO prior authori- with the recommendazation denials. tion to collaborate with • Mandating states states to identify and to collect data on MCO address MCOs that may authorization be issuing inappropriate prior decisions. authorization prior • Issuing guidance denials. to states on utilizing Sen. Robert Casey MCO prior authoriza- (D-Pa.), who chairs the tion data for oversight.

Senate Special Com• States must imple- mittee on Aging and ment automatic external U.S. Rep. Frank Palmedical reviews of lone, Jr. (D-N.J.), Enerupheld MCO prior gy and Commerce authorization denials.

Continued on page 5

McCarthy’s downfall—rogue Republicans remove house Speaker in unprecedented vote

by Stacy M. Brown, NNPA Newswire senior national correspondent A group of rogue Republicans supporting former President Donald Trump has ousted House Speaker Kevin McCarthy from his position. The unprecedented action comes after McCarthy’s controversial deal-making with Democrats to avert a government shutdown.

McCarthy, who had steadfastly resisted reaching out to Democrats, was on the losing end of a high-stakes political battle. The California representative’s efforts to broker the deal to keep the government working led to his downfall, as members of his party turned against him.

McCarthy’s ouster marks the first successful vote to remove a speaker from the U.S. House of Representatives. The last and only time Congress voted on such a measure was over a century ago, in 1910.

Before the vote, McCarthy, who faced a protracted 15-round battle in January to secure

Kevin McCarthy, Former Speaker of the United States House of Representatives the speakership, made it Republican leadership, clear that he would not including McCarthy. seek assistance from “We dealt with a Democrats. Such a move variety of different could have potentially things, including coming saved his position. into the session last House Minority Leader month, and the first offiHakeem Jeffries (D- cial act was to launch N.Y.) expressed the con- this illegitimate impcerns of many in his cau- eachment inquiry, precus, citing significant sumably at the direction trust issues with the Continued on page 5

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Table of Contents Front Page .......................... 1 National/State..................... 2 Local.................................... 3 Editorials ............................ 4 Continuations ..................... 5 Pastor, Pew, & Pulpit ........ 6 Leisure ................................ 7 Health/Education ............... 8

Contributing Writers: Alvin Campbell; T.A. Spence; Reeju Davis General Columnists: William T. Robinson, Jr. Church Columnists: Rev. Barbara WoodsWashington, Dr. Monterey D. Lee, Sr. B. Bethel Writers/Photojournalists (fl): Cass F.L.Teague, Jr., Wanda Clay, Justin Darden,

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Cancer… My Journey in time Finding joy in new beginnings

by Wanda Clay Rev. Enoch Fuzz, pastor of Corinthian Missionary Baptist Church, baptized a 20year-old Vanderbilt student on September 24, only a week before his great celebration. With all that happens around us each day, it is a joy to know that there are still new births.

These are new beginnings just as the clock turns in a 24 hour span. A new day dawns to offer new mercies, with a new outlook, and another chance to make good on things in life. New beginnings come after 12 months on a calendar to mark a ‘new’ year and all that can be expected of that year.

To be baptized, submerged into the water and coming up prayerfully as ‘a new creature’ is the ultimate new birthing. To celebrate one’s date of birth as each year passes is a great celebration and opportunity for a new beginning. To be recognized for 50 years preaching in ministry and 42 years as a pastor is a joy as it marks a time of what can be considered a new beginning.

As we go through the different seasons, we are offered new opportunities for a

Rev. Fuzz baptizes Vanderbilt student at Corinthian Missionary Baptist Church. rebirth of our choosing love and appreciation as there are so many for a person who confacets of life. Rev. tinues to be renewed, Enoch Fuzz is offered a restored and revived by new beginning each giving the same opporday as he continues on tunities through baphis journey with stage tism to young, impresfour lung cancer. Rev. sionable souls and Fuzz has been steadfast members of his in prayers and in min- church—as well as istry as his battle some- extraordinary support times leads to main- to his community. taining his life in new Keep praying and and different ways. supporting. And thank It was indeed an God for another birthhonor to celebrate Rev. day. Rev. Fuzz offers Fuzz’s life in ministry prayers to each reader and his birthday on as well for their healOctober 1 (the first day ing, celebrations and a new life. beginning month). Readers are Continue to watch encouraged to look for for Rev. Fuzz’s posts the next upcoming on Meta and be issue as we share some informed and encourphotos of that eventful aged by reading the day as a special tribute weekly column ‘Canin his honor. It is a cer: My Journey in great joy to express Time.’

providing valuable content to PR professionals worldwide. over 130 With episodes, it has consistently delivered expert insights, real-world case studies, and engaging discussions to empower

Peter Woolfolk, host of the Public Relations Review Podcast. these guests bring a wealth of perspectives and experiences to the podcast's discussions.

The Public Relations Review Podcast’s global audience, located in 137 countries covering 2,510 cities, benefits from this rich tapestry of voices, gaining insights into regional and industryspecific PR practices from around the country.

“Public Relations Review Podcast was born out of a desire to provide PR professionals with valuable insights and strategies they can implement in their daily work,” said Peter Woolfolk, the podcast's passionate host, producer and PR expert.

"We are immensely proud of our other accomplishments. Spotify notified us of a 90% increase in audience; Multiple FIVE star reviews from Apple listeners; speaking invitations from college PRSSA students; multiple PRSA chapters around the country; and invitations to be a guest on other PR podcasts.”

With its global recognition and unwavering commitment to delivering top-notch PR content, Public Relations Review Podcast continues to set new standards in the podcasting world. As it celebrates this remarkable achievement, Woolfolk looks forward to welcoming even more listeners, guests and applicable content into its growing community.

Public Relations Review Podcast is a pioneer in the field of public relations, dedicated to

Page 3

Serious housing crisis in Middle Tennessee addressed

by Justin Darden A group of Middle Tennessee residents and community leaders gathered in the rural Middle Tennessee town of Shelbyville to address a serious housing issue that has been plaguing residents and city officials. Findings of a report detailing the housing problems residents were experiencing were addressed at a hearing on August 26.

The hearing, organized by Bedford County Listening Project, was held on the Public Square in Shelbyville during the Walking Horse Celebration where local government officials, local housing advocates, and community leaders were invited with the public for the presentation of the report entitled ‘Defending Our Homes: Addressing the Housing Human Rights in Middle Crisis Tennessee.’ The report examined the housing crisis in Shelbyville, where the cost of renting apartment had an increased 31% in 2022.

The BCLP surveyed more than 1,000 renter in households Shelbyville, held conversations with residents and conducted over 170 interviews with residents. It was discovered that 84% of renters said they were having a difficult time finding safe

Nashville podcast ranked worldwide among top one percent of podcasts The Public Relations Review Podcast launched January 2019 has the remarkable achievement of being ranked by Apple Podcasts as being among the top one percent of podcasts worldwide. This accolade solidifies its position as an invaluable resource for public relations professionals seeking inscontent to ightful enhance their daily practice.

Founded by Peter Woolfolk, Communications Strategies is a public relations firm with 25+ years of experience at senior levels and a mission to empower PR practitioners with practical knowledge and expertise. Public Relations Review Podcast has produced an impressive 130 episodes to date. Each episode offers a deep dive into the dynamic world of public relations, featuring engaging discussions, expert insights, and real-world case studies that resonate with both newcomers and seasoned professionals.

Public Relations Review Podcast has consistently proven its excellence, garnering rankings as one of the ‘Best PR Podcasts’ nationally.

The podcast's unwavering commitment to quality content has made it a go-to source for PR professionals seeking to stay ahead in an everevolving industry.

Notably, Public Relations Review Podcast has earned several prestigious awards, including: Nashville PRSA’s Parthenon Award locally, and the GOLD Stevie Award from American Business Awards nationally—further cementing its status as a trailblazing podcast in the PR field.

Its commitment to excellence and dedication to advancing the PR profession has earned it the respect and admiration of listeners and industry peers alike.

One of the standout features of Public Relations Review Podcast is its diverse range of guests. Hailing from 48 of the 50 U.S. states and seven foreign countries,

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PR practitioners. Recognized as one of the ‘Best PR Podcasts’ nationally and the recipient of multiple podcast awards, Public Relations Review Podcast remains at the forefront of the PR industry.

and affordable housing.

The report also said that 57% of renters said they were experiencing health problems due to unsafe health conditions.

According to the report, apartment rents in Shelbyville were increasing. Increasing rent prices were caused by the housing market bubble in Nashville and other cities in Middle Tennessee. The average rent in 2022 was $715, but the rent in 2023 had increased to $935, a 31% increase. It’s expected to increase over time unless state and federal government officials take action. The report also said Shelbyville landlords were not making necessary repairs.

Landlords of apartment complexes had a tendency to make their own rules for tenants, which was highlighted by a 2020 report that

Photo: Adobe Stock detailed how the culture of non-enforcement enabled landlords in Shelbyville to make their own rules for tenants while city officials did not take action. The report also said that renters made claims of being harassed, threatened, and disrespected by their landlords. The report had discovered that 27% of renters said they were treated unfairly in eviction court. The report showed there was a need for legal resources to help renters with eviction issues.

The report also addressed the issue of renters who had a hard time renting an apartment because of race, gender, sexuality, family and disability. The initial survey indicated there were violations of the Fair Housing Act. Renters who experienced Continued on page 5

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Editorials Celebrating 50 years in Kappa Alpha Psi with The Coldblooded 22 Page 4

by William T. Robinson, Jr. I am fortunate to be blessed to celebrate 50 years as a member of the illustrious noble bond of Kappa Alpha Psi Fraternity, Inc. I would never debate any African American male on their choice or love for their chosen fraternity, but I personally thank God daily in helping me choose Kappa Alpha Psi, which has played a positive and instrumental role in my life. This column is based on my own personal experience and observation as a member of Kappa Alpha Psi Fraternity.

I cannot begin to express in words the significant role my fraternity has played in my life, in exposing me to a unique caliber of extraordinary brothers and exceptional mentors leading by example. I only wish other young Black men could be blessed with the exposure and guidance by other men, especially Black men sincerely committed to helping uplift the best qualities one has to offer. When one Black man is uplifted, we all benefit and are uplifted.

When I look back, I was a naïve excited 18 year old male student at

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William T. Robinson, Jr. Tennessee State University, away from home for the first time, experiencing new friendships and looking for guidance in fulfilling my academic goals. It was bittersweet because of the unknown.

I found I was not alone because other young men were feeling the same as myself, looking for guidance and a brotherly bond offering them support and assurance going forward.

The fraternal bond my line brothers and I found in Kappa was a blessing, because being a Black man in America you are confronted with perplexities that other men will never know.

Black men need each other’s support in navigating through life. I feel the brotherhood found in Kappa Alpha Psi as well as other fraternities is

needed and immeasurable.

I found this lifelong bond in Kappa Alpha Psi Fraternity to be heaven sent. In 1973, my line brothers consisting of young Black men throughout Tennessee and other states were fortunate to become members of this prestigious bond in the Alpha Theta chapter of Kappa Alpha Psi at Tennessee State University. Our line was named The Cold Blooded 22, sometimes The Coldblooded 22 or even lately known as The Koldblooded 22.

We forged a lifetime bond that has thus far endured for half of a century. Unfortunately, out of our line consisting of 22 brothers, along the way we have lost 4 brothers to our Chapter Invisible.

As Kappas, we have enjoyed a bond of exceptional camaraderie and love extending our families to bonus brothers and loved ones. In some cases, we have found our fraternity brothers to be closer to us than our biological siblings. We have been involved in the most intimate events in each other lives whether it be graduations, marriages, anniversaries, births, vacations, and deaths. It

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The Cold Blooded 22 line of Kappa Alpha Psi Fraternity in 1973. has been during life’s serving their communi- The Cold Blooded 22, most challenging and ties. will be able to come trying times, the brothers Kappa has enhanced together and celebrate have been there for each me spiritually, reinforc- 50 years of being in what other. ing my ethics, morals we consider the best fraI am extremely proud and love for God, help- ternity in the world, when I see my Kappa ing me be a better family Kappa Alpha Psi. Our brothers achieving in man, and instilling in me continuing thanks to every field of human the desire to work dili- God for his mercy and endeavor. They are gently in community grace in keeping us prevalent in sports as service. under his wings. athletes and coaches, in I truly hope my Kudos to the 1973 education, the media and Kappa brothers and I line, The Cold Blooded health care fields, enter- have served as com- 22: Curtis W, Bradley, tainment as actors and mendable and honorable Bernard A McCray, singers, as writers and conduits for other young Everett Rucker, Everard commentators men to follow. Knowing Thompson, media Stanford specialists, as the service that our fra- Wilson, Jerry Pugh, and movers in corporate ternities and sororities as Guy Spells, Stanley America, as prolific a whole offer to the Reese, Reginald Young, ministers, and profes- world, I could never be Clar-ence Goldthree, entrepreneurs. gullible to rhetoric but Ronald Chapman, Wasional They are at the center of those seeking to oppress yne Fleming, Anthony the world stage, mani- us by portraying African W. Mc-Adoo Sr., Juan festing and profiling the Americans as inferior Gipson, David Taylor, best professional Black and incompetent. I can Cass F. L. Teague Jr., men have offer. They do honestly say my fraterni- Henry D, Moore, Deus all proud, as well as ty and other fraternities wayne Armstrong, Regiall the other Black fra- and sororities debunk nald W. Reser, Micheal ternities. The same can that myth.

Elion, Frederick U. be said about our Black During TSU’s 2023 Brazzle, and William T. sororities, uplifting and Homecoming, my line, Robinson Jr.

Dianne Feinstein—grit and grace lawmakers should reverse course

by Julianne Malveaux to have that role. She on misguided SNAP restrictions TriceEdneyWire.com worked on several - The late Sen. Dianne things, including immiConsumers deserve to have choices Feinstein was my gration, civil rights, mayor. I'm a native San national security, and in the grocery store Franciscan who cut her the courts. Her Senate

political chops in my home city. I often spent time with our mayor and appreciate her grace and kindness. We didn't see the world the same way and occasionally crossed swords around race matters. Still, I always respected her and how she managed policy and politics. And I also appreciated the hurdles she had to clear as the first woman mayor of San Francisco.

Her life is a litany of firsts.

She rose to the mayoralty amid the crisis sparked by the assassination of her predecessor, George Moscone, and a colleague, Harvey Milk. She led a city that mourned our only openly gay member of the Board of Supervisors and a beloved mayor.

She comported herself with a restrained brilliance, saying the right thing every time and flashing her somber smile as she spoke. I will never forget a meeting in her office where my cold had me hacking through it. I don't remember the issue we disagreed on, but I remember having one of her aides bring me a cup of tea with honey to help my throat.

As mayor, she revived our touristattracting cable cars and (with Nancy Pelosi) brought the 1984 Democratic convention to San Francisco. That was quite a convention where Rev. Jesse Jackson threw down with a policy speech that included lines like, "I'd rather have Roosevelt in a wheelchair than Reagan on a horse," and the critical self-revealing, "God ain't finished with me yet." Jackson wasn't nominated, but he launched hundreds of political careers. Feinstein and Pelosi were responsible for providing a backdrop to his message.

Dianne Feinstein was part of the 1992

Julianne Malveaux ‘Year of the Woman,’ the year after Anita Hill endured grueling treatment by the Senate Judiciary Committee.

Many knew that there was not a single woman on that committee, and indeed, Sen. Patty Murray (D-Wash.) said she was inspired to run for the Senate as a "mom in tennis shoes" after that hearing. In November 1992, four new women were elected to the United States Senate, a record number that included Sen. Feinstein, Carol Mosley Braun (Ill.), Barbara Boxer (Calif.), and Patty Murray. Because this critical mass of women was elected, the Senate had to create a women's restroom, and it took some struggle for women to wear pants on the Senate floor.

Feinstein's contributions to this Senate were innumerable, with one of the most important being her 1994 legislation to ban assault weapons. That legislation expired in 2014, and the results of its expiration scream from daily headlines. Dianne Feinstein saved lives.

With her Senate career forged out of tragedy, she was profoundly aware of the impact that assault (and other) weapons could have on people’s lives, especially the lives of children.

Feinstein's Senate career partly happened because many women chafed at how the Senate Judiciary Committee treated Anita Hill.

Thus, it was poetic justice that Feinstein became the ranking Democrat in the Senate Judiciary Committee.

She was the first woman

career is a pastiche of first, with roles in intelligence and appropriations, among others.

She was chair of the Appropriations Subcommittee on Energy and Water Development. A staff memo on her transition reminds us that she "secured billions of dollars for Calicommunities, fornia including critical transportation, water supply, and federal building projects." She ensured that federal wild land firefighters earned higher salaries and worked to improve California's water infrastructure.

Dozens of published bios and obituaries will highlight Feinstein's many legislative accomplishments.

Many will describe her as an ‘icon’ or ‘role model’ and an inspirational woman who shattered the glass ceiling with grit and grace. She was persistent, resilient, visionary, collaborative, brilliant, and aweinspiring.

In her later years, she was physically diminished, but that did not lessen her impact. I will miss Dianne Feinstein, the gentle warrior whose passionate love for her home state of California was a blessing to us all.

Many of us who stand with Barbara Lee chafe at Gov. Gavin Newsome's failure to appoint Congresswoman Lee. Still, we all have high hopes and wish much success for Laphonza Butler as his selection. Gov. Newsome's appointment checks his box to appoint a Black woman to the next open seat in the Senate.

His refusal to hear the many who asked him to appoint Congresswoman Lee will have ramifications in the long run. What might Dianne Feinstein have done had she been governor? Food for thought.

by John Burnett TriceEdneyWire.com -Amidst Congress' best efforts to keep the government open, it’s also hard at work to reauthorize affordable food. They’re also trying to make sure farmers are able to insure their crops, and ranchers can export their products to foreign markets. It’s not an understatement to say it’s one of the most important bills Congress can send to the president’s desk, which is why it is so important to get it right.

Yet, some in Congress think getting it ‘right’ means restricting certain consumers' food items as ‘wrong’ to buy.

According to a recently introduced proposal, Americans enrolled in the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program would be prohibited from purchasing snacks, fruit juice, and soda (including beverages that are low calorie or zero sugar) with their benefits. It’s the equivalent of putting the federal government in between consumers and the products they enjoy.

Bottom line: consumers deserve to have choices in the grocery store. SNAP recipients are Americans in need and are fully capable of making their own food choices, and limiting their options also stigmatizes them as incapable of responsible decision-making. This approach undermines the dignity and selfrespect of SNAP participants, and it puts the government in the position of choosing what

people can serve their families. This is a slippery slope that would open the door to a government good-food or bad-food list that could apply to other everyday items on the grocery list.

Nevertheless, lawmakers like Marco Rubio and others may be seeking to jam this misguided idea into the farm bill. The legislative process is hard enough as it is, but it becomes significantly more difficult as individual members of Congress and D.C. special interest groups seek to attach pet projects or priorities to what should be bipartisan legislation. And in Congress, it’s easy for a few lawmakers to derail the progress on mustpass legislation.

The basis of the idea is about removing choice, but the authors of the so-called ‘Healthy SNAP Act’ claim it’ll help reduce spending, but the data doesn’t support it. SNAP recipients will still have the same amount of benefits.

On the SNAP side, lawmakers could look at generating savings by capping benefits, implementing work requirements, or reducing the overall size of the program.

We all want Americans to make good choices that promote healthier eating habits, but restricting the treats parents buy their kids is not the solution. It's a shortsighted and ineffective approach that infringes on individual freedom, further stigmatizing lower-income communities, and won’t

Terry Allen yield the savings Sen. Rubio is promising.

Instead, we should focus on real policies that improve access to nutritious foods and empower all individuals, regardless of their income, to make healthier choices.

As Republicans, we are proud to be the party of individual choice and freedom. These foundational principles are essential to the promise of liberty for all—that we trust our fellow Americans to make their own life choices, even if we don’t agree with them. I’m proud to subscribe to these values, which is why it is important we push back on ideas from within our party that restrict the ability for us to make our own decisions.

These values should apply at the grocery store, so lawmakers should reverse course on their misguided SNAP restriction proposal. The last thing Americans need is more ‘nanny state decrees’ from politicians who think they know best for them.

(John Burnett is a business and political analyst and an adjunct assistant professor at New York University.)

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Nashville PRIDE

TSU President... from page 1 Student debt relief... from page 1 “TSU has a track record of working with the state, and we look forward to a similar relationship to get the $2.1 billion in funding USDA and the Dept. of Education have also researched. TSU deserves it, our students deserve it.”

The USDA and Dept. of Education review covered a period of 33 years, from 1987 to 2020. The letter to Gov. Lee acknowledges that Tennessee has made strides in providing more equitable funding for TSU but reiterates more is still needed to overcome the historic underfunding of the university. TSU alumni and students say this latest $2.1 billion speaks to the long-standing under funding of the university but also to TSU’s resilience in being successful despite having been slighted for so long.

“I am impressed by the global impact Tennessee State University alumni have made considering how significantly and historically underfunded the university has been,” said Charles Galbreath, president of the Tennessee State University National Alumni Association.

“I often ponder how much greater the impact might have been with greater resources. Equitable funding can only attempt to reconcile a blemished past. However, equitable funding can absolutely enhance the global contributions of future Tennessee State University students and alumni.”

President Glover was highly scrutinized by Tennessee law makers last year for not having enough housing for a historic freshman class of over 3,300 students.

TSU housed over 4,900 students, with the use of off-campus housing that included hotels.

The University of Tennessee at Knoxville, the state’s other landgrant institution, used hotels for its housing overflow as well but did not face the same backlash of improper planning and inadequate

TSU student leaders... from page 1 Taylor mentioned that despite the tremendous under funding, students from across the country still choose TSU because of its culture and the quality of education it offers.

“But if we had the resources that these surrounding institutions have, who knows what our capabilities could have been. It means a lot to be in our nation’s capital fighting for our rights.”

O’Quinn echoed his sentiments, emphasizing that this matter isn’t just impacting TSU but all underfunded HBCUs as well.

“It has also shown me the importance of being well-informed on this topic, so we can relay the information back to the students and have a stronger force when advocating in the Tennessee legislature,” O’Quinn said.

“Being here and experiencing this shows how impactful it is to advance and be informed.”

Joining them on the trip were Mr. Davin Latiker, Miss TSU Victoria McCrae, Ali-yah Holmes, and Dwight DeBerry. The TSU group had discussions with Congress-ional members including Jim Clyburn, Terri Sewell, Frederica Wilson, and Steny Hoyer. leadership. “The state of Tennessee has two landgrant institutions. One has been allocated a tremendous amount of funding for decades, while another has had to operate with minimal apportions. However, this is not the time to issue blame or fault. It is time to come to the table with a strategic plan of action that specifically involves payment. The 33 years cited predates almost everyone at the capitol, but it’s never too late to do what’s right.

Imagine how much greater TSU could be with equitable funding. greater TSU The becomes so will the state of Tennessee.”

SGA President Derrell Taylor, a business major from Memphis, believes the housing challenge and so many infrastructure more issues could have been avoided if TSU had received its fair share of funding all those years.

“I’ve been here four years and can only imagine what our campus would look like and how different the college experience would have been for me, and all the students before me,” said Taylor.

“I would select TSU all over again without hesitation because it has been an amazing experi-

ence. The university has done so much with so little, but TSU should have never been put in this position in the first place. I should have the same advantages to be successful as my counterparts at the state’s other public institutions.”

Taylor said. Things needed include: more residence halls without community bathrooms, a new football stadium on campus, a true student center, an upgraded heating and cooling system, more computer labs throughout the campus, better technology, and most importantly scholarships.

So many students had to borrow money to attend TSU as the school of their choice when they could have had scholarships.

“TSU students should have what everyone else has, and we can with our right share of state funding.”

In the letter, both USDA and the Dept. of Education offered to hold a workshop for the state’s Budget Office to review their calculations in detail.

Glover President says she is hopeful that the state will schedule this workshop soon and invite TSU to participate.

Zoleka Mandela... from page 1 Mandela was a champion for cancer awareness, bravely shared her struggles with depression, and disclosed that she had endured childhood sexual abuse. Additionally, she proved at the forefront of the cause of improved road safety after a tragic car accident claimed the life of her 13-year-old daughter in 2010. Tragically, she also lost a prematurely born son. Mandela leaves behind four children.

Hailing from the lineage of Nelson Mandela’s second wife, Winnie, Mandela penned her remarkable journey in her autobiography, When Hope Whispers. Diagnosed with

breast cancer at 32, she initially went into remission, only to face a recurrence of the illness.

Last year, she revealed the disheartening news of cancer’s presence in her liver and lungs, subsequently spreading to other vital organs. Though she received outpatient care, Mandela checked into a hospital over a week ago.

In a poignant Instagram post from August 2022, she wrote: “What do I tell my children?

How do I tell them that this time around I may not get to live my life as a survivor? How do I tell them everything will be okay when it’s not? I’m dying. I don’t want to die.” During an inter-

view with Kaya FM in April, Mandela said: “I’m learning to be okay with my eventuality.”

Her unvarnished revelations garnered her a substantial following on social media platforms, where heartfelt tributes continue to pour in.

“Utterly tragic loss of a human being in her grandfather’s footsteps.

A decent, honest human being in a dishonest, hypocritical world,” said one individual on social media.

Another wrote on Instagram beneath the Mandela family’s announcement: “You were one of the bravest people I know, and you inspired many people on your life’s journey of hope.”

recently disclosed the individuals selected to serve on the negotiating committee and provided an issue paper to guide the initial negotiating session. The department urged the committee to consider ways the administration can assist borrowers, including those with balances exceeding their initial loans, applicants eligible for relief under existing repayment plans who have yet to apply, and borrowers facing finanhardship not cial addressed by the current system.

To date, the White House noted that the

Biden-Harris Administration had approved $127 billion in debt cancellation for nearly 3.6 million borrowers, with categories including: • Close to $42 billion for nearly 855,000 borrowers qualified for forgiveness through income-driven repayment by correcting historical discrepancies in qualifying payments.

• Nearly $51 billion for 715,000 public servants under the Public Service Loan Forgiveness programs.

• $11.7 billion is designated for almost borrowers 513,000 experiencing total and

permanent disability.

• A sum of $22.5 billion was assigned to over 1.3 million borrowers who suffered due to school-related fraud, abrupt institutional closures, or were covered by pertinent court settlements.

“For years, millions of eligible borrowers were unable to access the student debt relief they qualified for, but that’s all changed thanks to President Biden and administration’s this relentless efforts to fix the broken student loan system,” Secretary of Education Miguel Cardona said in a statement.

housing crisis... from page 1 racial discrimination said the race of the apartment manager or maintenance crews often determine which tenants received fair treatment.

Also, media discourses about race and complex policies in neighborhoods caused division

and distrust of racial groups making it more difficult for renters to find common understanding.

Racial favoritism also reflected the imbalance of power between tenants and landlords.

During a meeting of

the Shelbyville City Council on September 14, a resolution passed calling on the Federal Housing Finance Agency to adopt rules that would protect tenants living in properties with federally backed mortgages.

Medicaid... from page 2 ranking Committee member, has voiced concerns about the potential prioritization of MCOs’ financial interests over the needs of patients seeking care. “I’m deeply troubled by reports that Medicaid managed care plans denied an average of one out of every eight requests for treatment, more than double the rate of service denials in Medicare Advantage,” Pallone said in an earlier statement.

“Medicaid is a lifeline for over 80 million people, including children, people with disabilities, seniors, and hardworking families,” he said. “This report strongly suggests that some private insurance plans, which states have contracted with to provide health care coverage to their residents, may be improperly denying access to critical services to maximize their profits.”

In a letter to the OIG, Casey emphasized the role of insurance companies in administering Medicaid benefits through MCOs, which receive fixed fees known

as ‘capitated payments.’

Casey noted that independent watchdogs have consistently raised concerns about the MCO model, which may incentivize insurers to limit payments and deny coverage. He highlighted that MCOs have expanded significantly, becoming the “dominant delivery system” for providing Medicaid, coverage to over 67 million Americans, or 84% of Medicaid enrollees.

The senator noted that the OIG’s national evaluation of Medicaid MCOs, published in July, examined 115 plans with a minimum of 10,000 enrollees operating across 37 states and managed by seven companies. For example, the report found that, on average, MCOs denied 12.5% of requests for prior authorization in 2019, with notable variations from state to state and among different companies and plans.

Casey said one insurer in 13 states exhibited denial rates ranging from five percent to 29%.

In California, denial rates for various MCOs

ranged from seven percent to 29%. The OIG report also identified 2.7 individuals million enrolled in MCOs with 25% or higher denial rates.

Notably, one Illinois plan had a denial rate of 41%, while two other plans in Georgia and Texas denied one-third of claims.

Casey has called for a thorough examination of the MCO system to ensure that patients enrolled in Medicaid have unfettered access to the services they are entitled to.

Additionally, he has urged the CMS to provide robust oversight to safeguard the interests of enrollees in receiving the care they need.

“When patients are denied coverage of medically necessary services, they often face tight timelines to file actionable appeals,” Casey said. “Assuming such appeals are filed in a timely manner, the process can be complicated and time-consuming, creating barriers that can make it difficult for Medicaid enrollees to seek recourse.

McCarthy’s downfall... from page 2 of the former twiceimpeached insurrectionist-in-chief, Donald Trump,” Jeffries said.

“These are all the challenges that I think we confront.”

Rep. Matt Gaetz of the Florida Republican Party, a well-known representative of the Republican caucus’ adamantly pro-Trump faction, proposed the motion to remove McCarthy. Gaetz, currently under investigation for alleged sexual abuse, criticized McCarthy for what he

deemed a lackluster performance in negotiations with President Joe Biden, asserting that Biden had “handed McCarthy his lunch” in recent talks to prevent a federal shutdown.

A recent report has suggested that many Republicans were considering a vote to oust Gaetz from the chamber, further highlighting the internal divisions within the party.

Despite losing his position, McCarthy remained resolute, emphasizing his com-

mitment to keeping the government operational.

“I made a decision to take a risk to keep the government open,” McCarthy told reporters.

“If, at the end of the day, I am removed from speaker because I moved to ensure that the troops and Border Patrol agents continued to receive pay, that’s a fight worth fighting for. I’ve always said I would fight for the American public, and that’s exactly what I did, and I’ll continue to do that and let the chips fall where they may.”

laphonza Butler... from page 2 LGBTQ rights, and a champion for increasing women’s representation in politics. I’m honored to welcome her to the United States Senate.

Gov. Newsom’s swift action ensures that Californians maintain full representation in the

Senate as we navigate a narrow Democratic majority. I look forward to working together to deliver for the people of California,” wrote California U.S. Sen. Alex Padilla in a statement.

(Lauren Victoria Burke is an independent

investigative journalist and the publisher of Black Virginia News.

She is a political analyst who appears regularly on #RolandMartinUnfiltered. She can be contacted at <LBurke007 @gmail.com> and on twitter at @LVBurke.)

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Pastor, Pew, & Pulpit

Faith of A Mustard Seed

by Barbara A. Woods Washington, M. Div. When Howard Thurman delivered the commencement address to the Interdenominational Theological Center’s Class of 1980, he raised his hand in a continuous thumping motion saying, “If you are not about putting everything that has breath back on it’s God given beat, then get out of God's way and find you something else to do".

Howard Thurman said to us as Seminarians chosen for his Educational Trust, "When you wake in the night with a vision in your mind get up and write it down because in the morning it will be gone."

I am now in my sixteenth year as a weekly columnist for the oldest black living newspaper in Nashville, the Pride”.

“Nashville Positioned with it’s is it’s Masthead Mission: “The Voice of a Proud Community”.

I have come to realize after 40+ years of preaching, even as an Isaac R. Clark Homiletics Scholar, that… ‘preaching is faulty’. Many times I have listened to my own sermonic recordings and found error in my spoken homiletic. My theological training gives me pause, more often than not, in wanting, no ‘needing’ to be in dialogue with ‘the preacher’ concerning his sermonic discourse. charge my I Grandmother for this in hearing her one Sunday morning at the door greeting our Pastor, identifying something he had said which I was too young to even know, but, I understood her saying to him, to Sunday “come School and say that.”

Can’t even recall whose classroom at The I.T.C. that I found the knowledge that “Preaching is Monologue. Teaching is Dialogue.”

But the “Written

Barbara A. Woods Washington, M. Div. Word”… a deeply different beast when it comes to the transmission of The Word of God. Just when “I think I am DONE” trying to get “my people” to move from the MUNDANE to TRUTH …that matters when it comes to ‘Kingdom of God Building’, I wake up, in the night, with renewed… Vision. And so I get up, write it down…

The FACT that The Interdenominational Theological Center has just dodged a bullet… and God has granted another new life, my finds contemplation truth in the mind of Claud Anderson: “The social systems that locked Blacks, and only Blacks, onto the bottom social and ecorung were nomic Slavery and Jim Crow segregation. For a brief period after each system was abolished, lawmakers made a weak effort to correct the damage those systems had imposed on Blacks. The efforts were short lived and each time, focus quickly shifted from Blacks to amorphous and broad groups such as minorities, people of color, language groupings, diversity, multicultural and poor people. Not only did Black civil rights leaders allow the hijackings and conceptual shifts, they themselves began to aggregate Blacks with broader groups, forever confusing the issues, social policy and Black people. Once the shift occurred, Blacks could

no longer see their own group self interest clearly.”

“The 400 percent immigrant increase has produced rippling negative effects in Black America that neither civil rights leaders nor elected officials have acknowledged or addressed. The income of Black Americans is reduced by three-tenths of one percent for every 10 percent increase in the immigrant popula(Center for tion.

Immigration Studies) That 400 percent increase entirely wiped out the 12 percent income gain that Blacks achieved between 1956 and 1966, as a result of the Black Civil Rights Movement.”

“Affirmative Action programs were originally intended to be corrective action for Black Americans, but immigrants, to whom this country does not have a debt, have been defined as new minorities, therefore eligible for inclusion in Affirmative Action. Knowledgeable of the law, immigrants set foot on American soil and demand preferential treatment. The result: Asians receive approximately 80% of the federal government’s 8(a) set-a-sides.

According to recent statistics, in Southwestern states like Texas, White women receive 78% of the state contracts, Hispanics 21% and Black businessmen only 9/10ths of one percent.” from (Excerpts Claud Anderson’s pen: The Harvest Institute Report - Summer 2006 THE PRESIDENT’S MESSAGE: Running Against the Clock).

In the urgency of Jesus, transmitted by The Gospel’s, I identify the thing that Claud further Anderson write’s in speaking to “Our Losses”: “they have stolen our ability for SOCIAL COHESIVENESS”.

By email: myfa thersmansionpress@ gmail.com

Faithful utterances

We have so much more to offer

by Dr. Froswa’ Booker-Drew A friend told me recently that I am a “baby elder”. I am often asked to mentor young adults. I do not take this lightly and realize that the advice I provide can have far-reaching implications. I am clear that my experiences are different and despite the wisdom that I may offer, the truth is many of the situations young people deal with have many unique variables. I have learned that as much as I have to offer, I can still learn a lot. I’ve learned to listen a lot more and ask a lot of questions.

Sometimes, it’s knowing that you are in another season. It’s also knowing that if my words are not laced with God’s wisdom, I could cause confusion.

Recently, Tyler Perry appeared on Crystal Hayslett’s “Keep It Positive, Sweetie” show.

During the conversation, Perry and Hayslett discussed relationships.

Some of his comments set the internet ablaze.

Perry explained that Black women are making more money than Black men (data proves this is inaccurate).

“There are a lot of Black men who are successful, but for the most part, Black women are making the money.”

“Yep, she makes most of the money; all I can pay is the light bill,’ as long as she’s comfortable enough to say, ‘I’m going to cover the mortgage and all of the other stuff; you handle the light bill, baby. You can take me to dinner every now and then,’ that

is fine.”

A lot of women were livid at his comments for a number of reasons. In my typical way of seeing things differently, this, too, was a situation that was odd for me. I found it bizarre that despite his desire to help, Tyler Perry in that moment did not see his privilege or disconnection from the rest of the world. He failed to acknowledge how the variables in his life are so different than those of the audience he was addressing.

Tyler Perry’s relationship history has been mostly private (and it’s none of our business) which makes it challenging to understand his advice without more context. Tyler Perry has never been married. He and model/activist Gelila Bekele are the parents to his son. In December 2017, they welcomed their son. It was revealed in December 2020 that they were no longer together and the time he stated, “I’m 51, single and wondering what the next chapter in my life will look like.”

Tyler Perry is by no means a poor, struggling brother, either. Tyler Perry’s estimated net worth in 2023 is approximately $1.1 billion. I was disappointed that he was not encouraging Black men. Instead of believing that they were capable of building an empire as he’s done, it was as if there were no expectations for our brothers to excel and that they should settle to be taken care of. The Black men I know and have known wanted more for themselves and their

Dr. Froswa’ Booker-Drew families.

The issue isn’t about a man making less money, it’s a problem when anyone should be okay with a man who can only contribute in some households $200300/month—especially if he’s not in school or trying to do something to better his life. In all honesty, he’s not ready to be in a relationship because the focus should be on how he can take care of himself before even committing to a relationship that would require the responsibility of taking care of others.

As Believers, there is a different requirement that we have for our households.

“But if any provide not for his own, and specially for those of his own house, he hath denied the faith, and is worse than an infidel.” (1 Timothy 5:8 KJV) The Bible tells us that if you can’t take care of your family, you are in essence a hypocrite— you do not believe what you profess.

There is a big responsibility in giving guidance. The wisdom we share must be rooted in God’s word. There is nothing wrong with offering wisdom and instruction to others but it’s important to examine if our advice is building others up or has the possibility of becoming a stumbling block of harm.

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expressions of Faith God will do it

by Bishop-elect Dr. Monterey D. Lee, Sr. “Useless gods cannot save you from your troubles.

They cannot answer your questions.

Remember this, and do not forget it! Think about these things, you who have turned [transgressed] against God. Remember what happened long ago, the former things of old.

Remember that I am God, and besides Me there is no other. I am God, and there is none like Me. Declaring the end from the beginning, I told you what would happen in the end. A long time ago [in ancient times] I told you that things would happen, but it has not happen yet.

When I plan something, it happens. My counsel shall stand, What I want to do, I will do, for it is My pleasure for I am God,” Isaiah 46:7b-10.

Israel was tempted to waver between the Lord God and heathenism, i.e., should we worship God the Creator, or should we assume what we are already doing— idol worship?’ Isaiah affirms the power of the Lord God the Creator.

God is unique in His knowledge and in His control of the future. His

consistent purpose is to carry you and to give you His plans for your life.

If you are tempted to pursue anything other than God the Creator, think on this: there are no promises, no pleasures, no comforts, no peace, and no security from God. If you waver, you lose. Don’t lose out, but look to the Lord God for righteousness and salvation. Your senseless and helpless idols can’t save you. When you look to them, you men of Israel, you look to abomination for you are not faithful to the Lord God the Creator. Avoid heathenism, paganism, pagan religion, neopaganism, and idolatry.

They are pagan core beliefs that will remove you from the very presence of God. God said, ‘Look to Me and let Me move in your life. For what I have planned for you it will happen. What I have for you, it will come to pass. I will make it happen for you.

It will not happen unless I say it will happen. It will come to pass.

Remember, God said, ‘I will do it.’

“I am calling a man [Cyrus] from the east to carry out My plan; he

Bishop-Elect Dr. Monterey D. Lee, Sr. will come like a hawk from a far country. I will make what I have said come true; I will do what I have planned. Listen to Me, you stubborn people, who are far away from righteousness, far away from what is right.

I will soon do the things that are right. I will bring salvation soon. I will save Jerusalem and bring glory to Israel,” Isaiah 46:11-13. word was This placed in my spirit as I was praying and preparing myself to bring forth the Holy word of God. ‘I will do it.’

This is all I heard from the Lord: ‘I will do it,’ so I asked God the question, ‘What will You do?’ I needed some clarity on this word that He released into my spirit.

There are the three words in the three verses that were read this morning.

Nashville PRIDe Directory of Churches 40th Avenue Church of Christ 616 40th Avenue North Nashville TN, 37209 www.40thavecoc.com Sunday School 9:00 a.m.

Sunday Worship 10:00 a.m. & 6:00 p.m.

Bible Study:Wed. 7:00 p.m. and Thurs 11:00 a.m.

(615) 329-2325 Min. Dr. Charles A Beaman Church of Scientology & Celebrity Centre Nashville 1130 8th Ave S Nashville, TN 37203 615-687-4600 7 days a week with Service every Sunday at 11AM scientologyccnashville.org Senior Pastor: Rev. Brian Fesler Clark Memorial UMC Worship service: Sundays 10:00 am 1014 14th Ave. N. 615-329-4464 Senior Pastor: Rev. Toi King Cleveland Street MBC 608 Cleveland Street Nashville, TN 37207 615-227-1149 Sunday Worship: 10:45 a.m./9:15 Church School clevelandstreet baptist@comcast.net www.clevelandstreet baptistchurch.com Dr. Donald Snead, pastor Corinthian Missionary Baptist Church 819 33rd Avenue N. Nashville, TN 37209 (615) 977-6855 Sunday School 9:30 a.m.

Sunday Worship 11:00 a.m.

Wed. Worship: 7:30 PM Rev. Enoch Fuzz, pastor Ezra Emmanuel Ministries 2606 Union Hall Rd. Clarksville, TN 37040 ezraemmanuelmin.org 9 a.m. Sunday worship 6 p.m. Wednesday Hr of Empowerment 931-378-1092 Overseer Danelle M. Stephens Gospel United Missionary Baptist Church 3700 Fairview Dr. Nashville, TN 37218 615-876-7022 9:30 Sunday School Sunday Worship: 11:00 a.m.

Pastor Carlos A. Jones

Greater St. John Baptist Church 2200 26th Ave, No. Nashville, TN 37208 (615) 263-9450 Sunday Worship: 10:45 a.m.

Herbert T. Brown, pastor Gordon Memorial United Methodist Church 2334 Herman Street Nashville, TN 3728 615-329-2779 Sunday School @ 8:45am Sunday Worship @ 10:00am Bible Studies: Monday Thursday @ 6pm; Wednesdays @ 12 noon gordonmemorialumc.org Rev. Dr. Paula B. Smith, Pastor Jefferson Street MBC 2708 Jefferson Street Nashville TN 37208 615-329-2990 Morning Worship: 10 a.m.

Rev. Aaron X. Marble, pastor John Wesley UMC 901 Benton Avenue 615-298-2019 Sunday worship 8am/11am Daniel M. Hayes, Sr. pastor jwesleyumc@ bellsouth.net http://jwesleyumc.org/ Lake Providence MBC 5891 Nolensville Pike Nashville, TN 37211 (615) 833-5539 Sunday worship: 8am/11am Rev. H. Bruce Maxwell, pastor The Living Word International Church 5100 Wyoming Ave. Nashville, TN 37209 615-297-7437 Worship Times: 11:00 a.m. 7 p.m.

(1st & 2nd Sun.) Bishop Adebanjo thelivingwordcogic.com

Nehemiah Missionary Baptist Church Pastor Thomas E. Hunter, Sr. 916 16th Avenue North Nashville, TN 37208 615-942-5261 Sunday School:9:00am Sunday Service: 10:00am Tues. Bible Study:6:30pm nehemiahmissionary baptistchurch.com New Salem A.M.E. Church 1800 4th Ave. N. Nashville, TN 37208 615-964-7246 Sunday Worship 11 a.m.

Pastor Eddie L. Sneed Payne Chapel AME Church 212 Neil Avenue (615) 262-3675 Sunday Worship: 10 am Rev. W. Antoni Sinkfield Schrader Lane Church of Christ 1234 Schrader Lane Nashville, TN 37208 (615) 329-0950 Sunday Worship: 7:45/10:15 a.m./5:00 p.m.

Robert Gardenhire, Pastor Spruce Street Baptist Church 504 Spruce Street Nashville, TN 37203 Worship at 11 a.m.

(615) 329-4105 Pastor Raymond Bowman St. John A.M.E. Church 1822 Formosa Street Nashville, TN. 37208 (615) 320-1026 sainjohname@aol.com Sunday Worship 10:00 a.m.

Rev. Lisa Hammonds St. Luke A.M.E. Church 355 Blythe Ave. Gallatin, Tenn. 37066 615-452-3137 Sunday School 9:15 am Sunday Worship 10:30 am Rev. Dr. Barbara J.Crawford St. Matthew MBC 2412 Osage Street (615) 329-0173 Sunday Worship 11:00 a.m.

Rev. W.B. Armstrong, pastor

Mt. Lebanon MBC 222 Franklin Lime Stone Rd. 11:00 a.m. worship service 615-596-0456 jamesgreen@yahoo.com Rev. James J. Green, pastor

St. Paul A.M.E. Church 3340 W. Hamilton Ave. Nashville, TN 37218 (615) 876-7219 Rev. Harold Moses Love, Jr. www.stpaul-amec.com

Mt. Vernon MBC 1022 New Providence Pass Madison, TN 37115 Sunday Worship 11 a.m.

615-860-0213 Bishop Willie Joy, pastor mtvernon1022@cocast.net

Word of Life Christian Center International 4100 Clarksville Pike Nashville, TN 37218 (615) 876-3086 Sunday Worship: 11:00 am Rev. Alexander Arthur

Page 7 Nashville PRIDE Leisure Community Curation Program Usher set to headline 2024 of Smithsonian National Museum Super Bowl halftime show October 6, 2023

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of African American history and Culture invites you to participate locally this month

by Cass Teague The Community Curation Program of the Smithsonian National Museum of African American History and Culture is an innovative, digital first initiative bridging the generational digital divide. By bringing the Museum's digitization services to communities diverse across the country and creating a unique online platform, the program supports the preservation and sharing of community history and culture.

The Robert F. Smith Center for the Digitization and Curation of African American History is bringing the Community Curation Program to Nashville for the entire month of October.

The Smith Center serves to make accessible hiscollections torical digitization, through public programming and interaction, and by supeducational porting development in the museum and archives fields.

Through the Community Curation, Project, Professional Curation Program, Interns and Fellowships opportunities and the Explore Your Family History Center, the Smith Center serves as a major public history component for the NMAAHC. Doretha K Dr. Williams, National Director of Black History and Culture at Trust for Public Land, serves as the Center Director of the Robert F. Smith Center for the Digitization and Curation of African American History at the National Museum of African American History and Culture.

Dr. Doretha K Williams Doretha is a graduate of Fisk University in Nashville and received her Ph.D. in American Studies from the University of Kansas.

They will be headquartered at Fisk University's John Hope and Aurelia E. Franklin Library, working with great community partners, developing engaging programming, and digitizing materials for local institutions, organizations, and community members.

“This collaboration will enhance our mission to empower our community in preserving its heritage,” says DeLisa Minor Harris, Director of Library Services at Fisk University John Hope and Aurelia E. Franklin Library.

“The collective memories that embody Nashville are archived in various forms, such as sacred texts, letters, recipes, home videos, and photo albums.”

You are invited to please peruse their schedule and join in the process: 1. Audiovisual Digitization, October 7-28, Franklin Library 3rd floor rooms.

2. Flat Item Digitization, Date: October 1728, Franklin Library 3rd floor rooms.

3. Genealogy Workshop with Afro-American Historical and Genealogical Society; Saturday, October 7, 10 am; John Seigenthaler Center, First Floor Lecture Hall, Vanderbilt University.

4. A Seat at the Table, Saturday, October 14, Appleton 12:00pm; Room, Jubilee Hall Registration Required (100): A Seat at the Conservation, Table: and Social Justice- Panelists: Doretha Williams, Washington Lorenzo (Jefferson Street Museum), Elizabeth Johnson (TSU), DeLisa Harris (Fisk) 5. Freedmen’s Bureau Search Portal Training—Tennessee Resources Public Version, October 21 (Public) Park Johnson Hall 122 (Capacity 140) 6. Space for New Media Student MeetUp; Tuesday, October 24, 12:00 pm—2:15 pm; Tennessee State University, Space for New Media 7. Community Curation Program Nashville Tuesday, Reception; October 24, 6:00— 10:00 pm. Tennessee State Museum Grand Hall and 2nd Floor Veranda; Registration:

By Invitation 8. Hometown Treasures; Saturday, October 28 and Sunday, October 29; Franklin Library 3rd floor.

For more information and to register for these events please go to this website: <https:// nmaahc.si.edu/events/ series/community-curation-2023-nashville>.

Killers of the Flower Moon

by Dwight Brown, Film critic for NNPA News Wire and DwightBrownInk.com Why in the 21st century is anyone making a film about the Native American experience from a White man’s perspective? What is there to gain? Just great artistry that overshadows indigenous people.

Author David Grann based his novel Killers of the Flower Moon on information he gathered from FBI reports and archival materials. His mix of fact and fiction centers around the Osage ‘Reign of Terror’ in early 1920s Oklahoma. A tragedy that happened around the time of the Tulsa race massacre of 1921, when White racists, envious of Black wealth, terrorized and burned down neighborhoods. Similarly, Osage tribe members have become rich from the oil on their lands. Thirty million dollars ($400M in today’s money) comes their way, making them the wealthiest people per capita in the world. The mineral rights to their reservation are put in a federally managed trust. They receive royalties doled out by guardians. White men pray on them, marrying their women for their wealth. Scoundrels to the left. Scoundrels to the right.

The gold digging is heinous, the charlatans devious. Even worse, some truly sociopathic types marry and murder tribal members for financial gain. This is that story. Not largely told from the standpoint of the Native American themselves, but from that of the perpetrators.

The novel highlighted the government’s investigation. Now this film

Robert DeNiro and Leonardo DiCaprio in Killers of the Flower Moon.

Local law enforceveers away from the Osage too, making them ment is inept, only carsupporting characters in rying the bodies away.

Mollie’s family memtheir own story.

A long-winded initial bers start to meet the scene sets up the film’s same fate, and she’s two main characters. nervous for the ones that Ernest Burkhart (Leon- are still alive. She ardo DiCaprio) is poor should be. The killers as a church mouse when lurk close. King acts he reconnects with this concerned and pretends uncle, William ‘King’ to be a friend of the Hale (Robert DeNiro). Osage people. He knows That rich cattle rancher more than he’s saying. is a local kingpin in the There’s no blood on his town of Fairfax, in the hands. Hard to trace county of Osage, Okla- anything back to him. homa. Ernest becomes a When will people get car service driver to wise?

Rarely in a good make money and one day he picks up a beauti- murder mystery does the ful and rich Native storyline peg the killers American woman, Mol- right from the jump. lie (Lily Gladstone, This adaptation, written Fancy Dance). The two by Eric Roth (Dune) and flirt. She’s cautious at director Martin Scorsfirst. Pity she wasn’t ese, does. Viewers watch more vigilant, because the scheming and slaywhen she opens the door ings from the eyes of the to the henhouse, the fox culprits. Yes, there are comes in for the kill. scenes with Mollie and Mollie: “Coyote likes other Osage members showing their concern, money.”

Members of the going to the authorities Osage tribe are being for help and even to murdered in mysterious Washington D.C. But and sometimes brutal too much of what’s on ways. Tribunals gather view does not involve and assess the problems. them, the protagonists, Paul Red Eagle (Everett solving their own probWalker) says: “When lem, which is a standard this money start comin,’ rule in good screenwritwe shoulda known it ing. This is a dubious came with something creative choice at best. A else.” gamble.

For the full review, go to pridepublishinggroup.com.

Usher will headline the 2024 Super Bowl halftime show.

by Stacy M. Brown, NNPA Newswire senior national correspondent Grammy-winning artist Usher plans to dazzle hundreds of millions of fans as he takes center stage for the highly anticipated 2024 Super Bowl halftime show. On February 11, 2024, the renowned performance will occur at the Allegiant Stadium in Paradise, Nevada, just outside the famed Las Vegas Strip.

Kim Kardashian surprised Usher with a phone call to announce that he would be headlining at X (previously known as Twitter).

The appearance will mark Usher’s second appearance at the Super Bowl, following his performance 2011

alongside the Black Eyed Peas. Rihanna headlined the event last year and revealed her pregnancy to A$AP Rocky during her unforgettable performance.

“It’s an honor of a lifetime to finally check a Super Bowl performance off my bucket list.

I can’t wait to bring the world a show unlike anything else they’ve seen from me before,” Usher said in a statement. “Thank you to the fans and everyone who made this opportunity happen. I’ll see you real soon.”

Jay-Z, whose Roc Nation company is returning to produce the halftime show for the fifth consecutive year, also commended Usher: “Usher is the ultimate artist and showman.

Ever since his debut at 15, he’s been charting his own unique course.

Beyond his flawless singing and exceptional choreography, Usher bares his soul. remarkable “His journey has propelled him to one of the grandest stages in the world. I can’t wait to see the magic.”

53, and Jay-Z, Usher, 44, have previously collaborated on tracks including ‘Hot Tottie,’ ‘Anything,’ and ‘Best Thing.’

Super Bowl LVIII will be broadcast live on CBS on February 11, 2024. The iconic halftime show generally draws hundreds of millions of viewers, making it one of the most sought-after platforms in music.

3. Hip bones 4. To-do enumerations 5. Bingo and keno 6. Imitator 7. *Chemistry classroom 8. Fly in ____, or a reminder of the past 9. Hat-tipper’s word 10. Highest point 11. Splints site 12. Assigned spot 15. Rids of obstuction 20. Period in history 22. Mouth piece 24. Designer’s studio 25. *____-Mariotte Law 26. Dined at home 27. Late Princess of Wales 29. Defect 31. Two halves of two 32. Discussion intended to produce agreement 33. Galactic path 34. Demanding attention 36. Like a barred door 38. *Aurum, in English 42. Type of grave

marker 45. It loves company?

49. PC "brain" 51. Limited in scope 54. Gelatin 56. Like one with high BMI 57. Artist’s model, sometimes 58. Application utilizer 59. Keep it up?

60. TV classic "____ Make a Deal" 61. Jealous biblical brother 62. Fairy-tale opening 63. Less than average tide 66. *Sn, or stannum, on periodic table 68. Like dry humor

THEME: CHEMISTRY 101 ACROSS 1. “Planted” customer 6. Pie and mode connection (2 words) 9. *Atomic ____ unit 13. Salk’s conquest 14. Beesly of “The Office” 15. Secret storage 16. Crëme de la crëme 17. Flow alternative 18. a.k.a. vampire 19. *Any substance in chemistry 21. *Periodic table entry 23. Douse or soak 24. Pavarotti’s song 25. Between Big and Wolf 28. Mattress description 30. *Positively charged particle 35. Elevator manufac turing giant 37. Horsefly 39. Rabbit trap 40. Sure or uh-huh 41. Saintly rings 43. North Sea feeder 44. Flax flower genus 46. Shrivel, as in plant 47. Like undesirable row 48. Related on mother’s side 50. Barbara of “I Dream of Jeannie” 52. Porky’s home 53. Practice in the ring 55. Burmese neighbor 57. *Core of an atom 61. *C 64. Theater guide 65. Org. that gets parents involved in school 67. Sign up again 69. Supernatural being 70. Three, to Caesar 71. Grouchy Muppet 72. European sea eagles 73. News channel acronym 74. Liable to cry DOWN 1. Health resort in Baden-Baden, e.g.

2. River islet

Solutions from last puzzle

Health/Education www.pridepublishinggroup.com October 6, 2023 Nashville PRIDE salutes columnists Cass Teague and William Robinson on their 50th Fraternity anniversary Page 8

Nashville PRIDE

William Robinson hosts several members of his Kappa Alpha Psi pledge line, The Coldblooded 22, and other guest Brothers at his home during a recent TSU Homecoming.

by Pride Newsdesk gather to celebrate and reminisce about long days and nights of 'orientation' --- nity, regionally and nationwide. In Nashville Pride is fortunate to have the half-century since they pledged intensive orientation --- we young men 1974, at the first Fraternity Konklave the services of two outstanding gentle- themselves to commit to the ideals and embarked on "Hell Week." Those of us after we crossed, in Las Vegas, three of men who regularly contribute to our purposes of their Noble Brotherhood. who survived the ordeal, particularly the Coldblooded 22, all native newspaper. We are proud to salute Please take the time to read the entire 'Turn Back Night,' finally crossed the Nashvillians, were distinguished by them on the occasion of their fraterni- full length version of William T. Burning Sands (literally for us, I might being elected National Officers. Likely ty reunion, during TSU Homecoming Robinson's column this week about his add) to join the ranks of our Noble for the first (and last) time since the 10 weekend. The two pledged the Kappa experience, elsewhere in this edition Brotherhood just before a very wel- Founders three members from one Alpha Psi Fraternity together, along and on the official Pride website. Here come Thanksgiving weekend. chapter from the same line and from with 20 other young men, in 1973 at are some observations by Cass Teague Along the way, the Scroller Club the same hometown held 60% of the the Alpha Theta chapter of Tennessee on his: entertained the campus with a formal undergraduate leadership of the fraterState University.

The spring of 1973 found several Presentation program and a dazzling nity! It was indeed a glorious time in William T. Robinson, Jr. has writ- dozen male TSU students -- mostly performance in the Fall Greek Show. the chapter's history as Cass Teague ten an informative, insightful and freshmen -- unite in a discontinued for- Each involved singing, choreographed (Grand Strategus), Dewayne thought-provoking column each week mat which was allowed back then dancing, stepping and Kappa Kanes. Armstrong (Grand Lieutenant for the Pride for over a decade. He pri- called an Interest Group or MIK (men Let's just say practices for these were Strategus), and William Robinson marily examines issues impacting interested in Kappa) Club as "The at least as 'intense' as for football or the (Grand Board of Directors) served African-Americans, with a particular Stars of the Yard." We got acquainted, Aristocrat of Bands, as some of our from 1974 through the subsequent focus on youth and Black men. fellowshipped, held parties and pic- line brothers were also members of the Konklave in New Orleans in 1976.

Cass F. L. Teague, Jr. has been a nics, studied together and came togeth- marching band while pledging, No wonder the saying "Alpha staff columnist and photojournalist for er as a tight-knit group. For the most notably Everard Thompson, Stanford Theta, None Greater" has become the Pride since 2005, covering art, part, we were the core of the men Wilson, and the late Everett Rucker. iconic throughout the Brotherhood. music, science, sports, entertainment, inducted into the Scroller Club of 1973 Following that, we Neophytes Happy Golden Anniversary to The education, health, politics, geek life, in October, the official pledge class of rejoined the ranks of our fellow stu- Coldblooded 22 of the Alpha Theta etc.. you name it he'll cover it! the chapter. dents, serving in leadership capacities Chapter of Kappa Alpha Psi Fraternity, This year the Coldblooded 22 will After four long weeks of grueling, there on campus, in the local commu- Incorporated.

‘Power to the Patients’ unite with hip-hop legends in PSA demanding healthcare price transparency country” and are leading a new movement to confront “a healthcare system that has been rigged against all of us.”

Hip-Hop legends (top row l to r) Chuck D, Fat Joe, Rick Ross; (bottom row l to r) French Montana, Method Man, and Busta Rhymes have teamed up with Power to the Patients to unveil a new public service announcement demanding price transparency in healthcare.

by Stacy M. Brown, NNPA Newswire senior national correspondent Hip-hop legends Fat Joe, Rick Ross, Busta Rhymes, Method Man, French Montana and Chuck D have teamed up with Power to the Patients, a national nonprofit organization dedicated to achieving systemwide price transparency in healthcare, to unveil a public service announcement (PSA) that demands elected officials commit to creating a healthcare system with transparency to allow for more honest, affordable, and equitable health care across the country.

“Today, we confront a healthcare system that’s been rigged against all of us. Hospitals force patients to sign contracts for services without ever showing us actual prices,” the artists said in a joint statement.

The new PSA comes as the House of Representatives prepared to vote on an historic healthcare price transparency bill. According to a news release, the iconic artists leveraged their collective voices “to advocate for stronger and more meaningful price transparency laws that would force hospitals and insurance companies to post actual prices for their services and procedures.”

In the PSA, they call out hospitals and insurance companies that continue to hide prices by posting ‘estimates’ or ‘average prices’ instead of dollars and cents. They asserted that the deception leads to the “stifling of competition, overcharges, fear, debt, and devastation all over the country.” The icons further noted that “hospitals force

patients to sign contracts for services without ever showing us actual prices” and that it’s “creating so much fear that millions and millions of Americans refuse to enter a hospital, putting our health and our lives at stake.” Public Enemy front man Chuck D also reminded viewers that this is “an American humanitarian crisis.”

Grammy-nominated artist and philanthropist Fat Joe, who visited the White House and met with lawmakers on Capitol Hill earlier this year to advocate for millions of patients, families, communities, employees, employers, and unions across the nation who have been taken advantage of by our healthcare system.

In June, Fat Joe and Power to the Patients’ joined healthcare transparency efforts led by New York City Council and various union groups, culminating in Mayor Eric Adams signing the Healthcare Accountability and Consumer Protection Act in June 2023, which established the nation’s first Office of Health Care Accountability to allow New Yorkers to compare costs charged by different hospitals for the same services.

Reportedly, more than 100 million Americans suffer from medical debt, which is the leading cause of personal bankruptcy. According to the most recent semi-annual report by Patient Rights Advocate, only 36% of hospitals in America are compliant with the current Federal Price Transparency Rule.

As Hip Hop turns 50 years old, Fat Joe and his peers reflected on the music movement that “changed our

The PSA will air on TV in Washington, D.C. and online in select markets across the country.