MORGAN CITY, La. — The ongoing discussion surrounding the Avoca property on Avoca Island has intensified as the Singleton family continues to raise concerns about historical land ownership, inheritance rights, and mineral interests tied to long-standing family property in St. Mary Parish. Family representatives maintain that portions of their ancestral land were once held within the family and later became part of a series of complex transactions involving outside entities over multiple decades. They argue that questions remain about documentation, communication with heirs, and whether all legal processes were fully transparent. “We are seeking clarity, truth, and accountability regarding what happened to our family land,” a family spokesperson said. “This is about legacy and ensuring future generations understand their rightful history.” Avoca Island, located near Morgan City, has long reflected broader patterns seen across coastal Louisiana, where family-owned land, agricultural use, and oil and mineral development often overlap within complex legal and environmental histories.
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BISCOE, N.C. — Meet one of Biscoe’s youngest entrepreneurs: Madison Kay, the creative and determined owner of Madison Love Bows, a growing small business built on faith, creativity, and entrepreneurship.
Madison recently showcased her products at the Biscoe Flea Market, where she proudly displayed and sold her signature handmade bows and boutique clothing while gaining valuable hands-on business experience. Setting a personal goal of earning $100 during the event, Madison successfully reached her target, demonstrating that dedication and preparation can lead to success.
Now entering the fourth year of owning and operating Madison Love Bows, Madison continues to prove that age is no barrier to achievement. As a rising fifth-grade student, she is learning practical lessons that extend far beyond the classroom, including customer service, marketing, budgeting, financial responsibility, and the value of entrepreneurship.
As part of her business plan, Madison is also learning the importance of giving back through tithing and responsibly paying taxes. These principles are helping her understand that owning a successful business involves not only making sales but also managing finances with integrity, honoring her faith, and contributing responsibly to her community. She is discovering that entrepreneurship is about building character as much as it is about building a business.
Madison Love Bows specializes in beautifully handcrafted bows designed for everyone. Girls and women can wear the bows as stylish hair accessories, while boys and men can wear them as fashionable bow ties. In addition to her handcrafted creations, Madison offers a selection of chic boutique clothing, creating a unique shopping experience for customers of all ages.
Madison dreams of one day opening her own storefront where customers can browse her complete collection of boutique clothing and handmade accessories. With continued encouragement and support from the Biscoe community, that dream is well within reach.
Community members are encouraged to support Madison Love Bows by shopping locally, sharing her business with friends and family, and celebrating the accomplishments of one of Biscoe’s brightest young entrepreneurs. Her journey serves as an inspiration to other young people, proving
Making a sell to the general public is easy for the owner of Madison Love Bows
Madison Love Bows giving one gift at a time.
The art of beauty is in the bow!!!
It about Business and Support, Pastor Peagues is thhere to encourage this young lady.
HIGH POINT, N.C. — What began as a simple call for help has, according to one High Point family, evolved into a painful and life-altering battle for justice, accountability, and transparency.
High Point native and military veteran Ms. C Edwards says she dialed 911 after an unidentified white male appeared on her property. Fearing for her safety, she requested assistance, expecting protection. Instead, she and her family say the events that followed forever changed their lives.
According to the family, after officers from the High Point Police Department arrived, accusations surfaced alleging that Nelson had attempted to strike the unidentified man with her vehicle. The family strongly denies those allegations and says witness statements, photographs, and video evidence tell a different story.
Family members report that more than a dozen High Point police officers descended upon the property. They describe a chaotic and terrifying scene filled with confusion, fear, and physical force. According to the victims, officers allegedly used metal objects or bars during the encounter, causing painful injuries and emotional trauma.
The family further alleges that one officer declared, “We run the place,” words that they say continue to echo in their minds long after the incident.
At the time, Ms. Edward’s father, also a military veteran, had been receiving treatment at the Veterans Affairs Medical Center in Kernersville. Upon learning what had happened to his daughter, he rushed to be by her side. However, he alleges that he, too, became the victim of excessive force while at the emergency room attempting to check on his daughter.
The father also claims that officers turned the heat up inside a patrol vehicle, causing him to become physically ill. Additionally, he alleges that authorities relied upon a fictitious warrant during the incident.
According to the family, neither victim received immediate and appropriate medical care following the alleged assault. It was only after concerned relatives intervened and demanded treatment that medical attention was finally provided.
Seeking answers, the family says they contacted High Point Police Chief Jarrell D. Cheeks and sent certified letters to High Point Mayor Cyril Jefferson. Despite those efforts, they say they have yet to receive the level of accountability and transparency they believe the seriousness of the allegations warrants.
In their pursuit of justice, the family enlisted the assistance of civil rights activist John C. Barnett and THUG (True Healing Under God). Together, they are advocating for what they describe as truth, healing, and accountability.
On June 18, 2026, the matter was heard in court. The family maintains that their ultimate goal is to have the case dismissed and to ensure that any wrongdoing is thoroughly investigated and that those responsible are held accountable.
Supporters say this case is about far more than one family. They believe it raises larger questions concerning civil rights, police accountability, and equal treatment under the law.
In the coming weeks, supporters plan to organize a Justice Rally for Ms. Edward and her father, where community members, veterans, clergy, activists, and concerned citizens are expected to gather in solidarity.
The message from the family remains clear:
They are seeking justice. They are demanding transparency. They are calling for accountability. And they refuse to allow their voices to be silenced.
As the legal proceedings continue, Ms. Edward’s and her father say they remain steadfast in their pursuit of answers, believing that no citizen should fear suffering injury after calling for help.
“We just want the truth,” supporters say. “And we want justice.”
Standing with Ms. C. Edwards’ family in High Point, NC, as they seek answers, transparency, and accountability. Every family deserves the truth, and every community deserves justice. #HighPointNC #Transparency #Accountability #THUG
United in support of Ms. C. Edwards and her family, John C. Barnett and T.H.U.G. (True Healing Under God) are calling for transparency and accountability from the High Point Police Department
ohn C. Barnett, Founder of T.H.U.G. (True Healing Under God), joined Ms. C. Edwards’ family as they publicly call for transparency, accountability, and a thorough review of the events that led to her injuries following an altercation. The family continues to seek answers and urges the community to stand with them in their pursuit of truth and justice. Transparency builds trust, and accountability strengthens our communities.
Today, we stand with Ms. C. Edwards and her family in High Point, NC. Together, we are calling for transparency, accountability, and clear answers regarding the injuries she sustained following an altercation. We encourage community members, leaders, and advocates to join us in supporting fairness, truth, and justice for all. A united community has the power to create positive change.
Today marked a historic and deeply personal milestone for Larry L. Archie as he successfully defended his dissertation titled “Applying a Black Feminist Theory to Challenge the Paradigm of Power and Patriarchy in the Juvenile Justice Court System.” With this achievement, Dr. Archie has officially earned his Doctor of Philosophy in Educational Studies with a concentration in Cultural Foundations from the The University of North Carolina at Greensboro School of Education. The dissertation defense represented not only the culmination of years of academic scholarship, but also a reflection of his lifelong commitment to justice, advocacy, and the protection of marginalized communities—particularly Black mothers and families impacted by the juvenile justice system.
Dr. Archie’s dissertation committee was led by Committee Chair Dr. Tiffanie Lewis-Durham, Ph.D., alongside committee members Dr. Steven Cureton and Dr. Leila Villaverde, Ph.D. Their guidance and scholarly leadership helped shape a dissertation that challenged traditional assumptions surrounding power, patriarchy, and race within the juvenile court system.
Now carrying the distinguished title of Dr. Larry L. Archie, he presented research that was rooted in both professional experience and personal conviction. Throughout his dissertation defense, Dr. Archie emphasized the foundational influence of Black women in shaping his understanding of love, resilience, and justice. Central to his presentation were the words of iconic Black women scholars and thinkers whose wisdom framed the spirit of his research.
Jusdge Archie Bench Photos
He quoted Mary McLeod Bethune, stating, “The true character of a race must be measured by the character of its motherhood.” He also referenced Angela Davis, who said, “The most radical thing a mother can do is raise her children with love in a world that tries to deny them humanity.” Finally, he shared the words of Toni Morrison: “A mother’s love is like no other. It is fierce, unyielding, and unconditional.”
These powerful quotations underscored the heart of Dr. Archie’s dissertation. During his presentation, he repeatedly acknowledged the influence of his own upbringing, noting that he was “raised and loved by a strong Black mother.” That personal truth became a guiding force behind his research and his professional mission. Reflecting on his career in juvenile justice, Dr. Archie stated, “Presently I am a juvenile court judge, but most importantly, what I am passionate about in this research was simple. I’m passionate about this research because for the last 20 years as a criminal defense attorney and juvenile court judge, I had the opportunity to recognize how Black mothers have been traumatized by the juvenile court justice system.”
He continued by explaining how his years on the bench and in the courtroom revealed troubling systemic inequities. “I recognized that Black mothers’ values and experiences have been overlooked,” he said. “I recognized how they have disregarded and ignored their voices.” His dissertation challenged longstanding structures of patriarchy and power within the juvenile court system while elevating the experiences and perspectives of Black mothers whose voices are too often silenced in legal spaces.
Dr. Archie’s journey to this academic accomplishment reflects decades of service, leadership, and excellence. A respected attorney and jurist, he has practiced criminal law extensively in Guilford County and has built a reputation grounded in fairness, compassion, and advocacy. He earned his Juris Doctor from Cleveland-Marshall College of Law and graduated from North Carolina Agricultural and Technical State University, where he also earned a master’s degree in English literature. In addition, he obtained bachelor’s and master’s degrees in health administration from Ohio University, graduating cum laude in both programs.
Beyond the courtroom and classroom, Dr. Archie has demonstrated distinguished military service. He served in the United States Army Reserve and National Guard, achieving the rank of Lieutenant Colonel as a Medical Operations Officer. His military career spans more than 30 years of operational readiness, leadership development, assessment, and training for soldiers. His experiences in the military, law, and higher education have collectively shaped his philosophy of leadership—one rooted in discipline, respect, service, and integrity.
As a North Carolina Board Certified Criminal Law Specialist, Dr. Archie has practiced in state and federal courts as well as the U.S. Court of Appeals for Veterans Claims. His legal experience includes criminal law, civil law, family law, juvenile delinquency matters, child support, and arbitration. Alongside his legal work, he has served as an adjunct professor dedicated to developing students into critical thinkers and community leaders.
His civic and community involvement further reflects his commitment to public service. Dr. Archie is actively involved with organizations including the Democratic African American Caucus, Greensboro Bar Association, Greensboro Criminal Defense Bar, Habitat for Humanity, Urban Ministry, and the Adopt-a-Highway program. He is also a proud member of Omega Psi Phi Fraternity, Inc..
The successful defense of his dissertation symbolizes more than an academic achievement; it represents a continuation of Dr. Archie’s lifelong pursuit of equity and justice. Through his scholarship, legal practice, military leadership, and judicial service, Dr. Larry L. Archie has consistently advocated for communities whose voices are often unheard. His research now contributes an important scholarly framework for examining how Black feminist theory can reshape and humanize the juvenile justice system.
As colleagues, students, family members, and community supporters celebrate this milestone, one thing remains clear: Dr. Larry L. Archie’s work is not only about the law—it is about humanity, dignity, and ensuring that the experiences of Black mothers are seen, respected, and valued within systems that too often fail them
MORGAN CITY, La. — The ongoing discussion surrounding the Avoca property on Avoca Island has intensified as the Singleton family continues to raise concerns about historical land ownership, inheritance rights, and mineral interests tied to long-standing family property in St. Mary Parish.
Family representatives maintain that portions of their ancestral land were once held within the family and later became part of a series of complex transactions involving outside entities over multiple decades. They argue that questions remain about documentation, communication with heirs, and whether all legal processes were fully transparent.
Mr. Wilson B. Singleton, Duck Hunting on Singleton Island.Now called “Avoca Island in Morgan City .LA
“We are seeking clarity, truth, and accountability regarding what happened to our family land,” a family spokesperson said. “This is about legacy and ensuring future generations understand their rightful history.”
Avoca Island, located near Morgan City, has long reflected broader patterns seen across coastal Louisiana, where family-owned land, agricultural use, and oil and mineral development often overlap within complex legal and environmental histories.
Civil Rights Advocacy Joins the Conversation
The discussion has now expanded with the involvement of civil rights organization True Healing Under God, which has expressed support for the Singleton family’s call for transparency and historical review of land records.
Civil rights activist John C. Barnett has also joined the effort, citing the need for community awareness and fair examination of land ownership histories affecting families across the region.
Community Rally Scheduled
A public gathering titled “Is Our Land Justice Rally” is scheduled for April 11, 2026 at 12:00 noon. The event is hosted by True Healing Under God and organized by community leaders Lester Wheeler and Michelle Sparrow, alongside supporting advocates.
The rally will take place at Mt. Era Baptist Church.
Organizers say the event will focus on land justice, inheritance rights, and increasing public awareness about historical property disputes affecting local families.
“This is about giving people a platform to speak and be heard,” organizers said. “We want transparency, education, and unity in addressing long-standing land concerns.”
Broader Legal and Historical Context
Experts note that land and mineral disputes in coastal Louisiana often involve decades of layered ownership changes, inheritance divisions, and evolving property records influenced by erosion and resource development. These factors can make resolution complex and heavily dependent on detailed legal documentation.
While no formal resolution has been announced in the Singleton family’s case, renewed public attention has sparked broader community discussion about land preservation, historical accountability, and property rights across South Louisiana.
As the April 11 rally approaches, Avoca Island remains at the center of an ongoing regional conversation about land, legacy, and justice.
The 2019 triple homicide in Glendale began as a shocking act of violence and has since evolved into a complex, years-long legal battle that continues to unfold as of April 2026. What authorities described as a targeted home-invasion robbery on April 18, 2019, left three men—Leon Gough II, Deandre Tyronne Sims, and Christian Marty Moukam—dead inside a Columbia Drive residence.
Within weeks, a multi-agency investigation involving local police and federal authorities led to four arrests across two states. Franklin Sadler and Jacob Jamora were taken into custody in Canoga Park, California, while John Poh and Jordon Byrd were arrested in Murfreesboro, Tennessee. All four were charged with multiple counts of murder, and prosecutors pursued the case under a felony-murder theory tied to robbery.
From the outset, the case was serious—but few could have predicted how long and procedurally complex it would become.
The Court Process Under Judge Carter
Now presided over by Judge Carter, the case has remained in pretrial litigation for nearly seven years. Franklin Sadler entered a not guilty plea early on, and the proceedings have since been shaped by extensive discovery disputes, procedural motions, and systemic delays.
Like many multi-defendant homicide cases, this one involves large volumes of evidence—ranging from witness statements and forensic reports to digital communications and video recordings. The process of reviewing and exchanging this material has proven slow and contentious.
Compounding this was the COVID-19 pandemic, which significantly disrupted court operations across California and contributed to a backlog of cases, especially serious felony trials.
Discovery Battles and Legal Tensions
As of early April 2026, the focus in court has shifted heavily toward discovery issues. Sadler’s defense has filed motions seeking full access to evidence, including:
Complete video interviews
Full, unedited transcripts
Broader disclosure beyond redacted summaries
Central to this dispute is the concept of a proffer—a summary of the prosecution’s evidence. While prosecutors can redact sensitive information, the defense argues that excessive redactions or incomplete disclosures limit their ability to prepare an adequate defense.
These concerns raise potential issues under the legal principle of Brady disclosure, which requires prosecutors to provide any evidence that may be favorable to the defendant. If violations are found, Judge Carter has the authority to order remedies ranging from compelled disclosure to evidentiary sanctions.
There are also indications that procedural challenges have been raised regarding how certain filings were submitted by the prosecution, adding another layer of legal scrutiny before the case can proceed to trial.
A Case Still Waiting for Trial
Perhaps the most striking aspect of this case is the timeline. As of April 2026, nearly seven years have passed since the arrests, and the case has yet to reach a jury trial. This delay raises ongoing constitutional questions about the right to a speedy trial, though courts often weigh such concerns against the complexity of the case and the causes of delay.
In this instance, multiple defendants, extensive evidence, and prolonged legal disputes have all contributed to the slow pace.
Public Attention and Advocacy
Beyond the courtroom, the case has gained increased public attention in part due to the involvement of John C. Barnett, a civil rights activist who has been working with the Sadler family. Barnett has helped bring visibility to the case, raising concerns about due process, prolonged pretrial detention, and transparency in the handling of evidence.
Barnett’s broader advocacy work is also notable—he has reportedly assisted in the release of 33 inmates, all of whom are Black, highlighting his ongoing focus on criminal justice reform and wrongful incarceration. His involvement in the Sadler case has contributed to its growing notoriety and public scrutiny.
Where Things Stand Now
As it stands, the Glendale triple homicide case remains unresolved, with key pretrial issues still being litigated under Judge Carter’s supervision. The most recent activity in April 2026 centers on motions to compel discovery and clarify what evidence the defense is entitled to review.
Before a jury can be seated, the court must resolve these foundational disputes. Only then can the case move forward into the trial phase, where the full weight of the evidence will be tested.
What’s Next: April 2026 Court Dates
The case is continuing to move forward incrementally. Franklin Sadler’s next scheduled court appearance is set for April 24, 2026, where ongoing discovery issues and pretrial motions are expected to remain central topics.
In addition, Barnett and his team are expected to return to Pasadena later this month, signaling continued advocacy and attention surrounding the proceedings at the courthouse handling the case.
Final Thoughts
What began as a tragic and violent crime has become a prolonged legal process shaped by complexity, delay, and growing public scrutiny. With advocacy efforts increasing and legal tensions continuing to surface, the path to trial remains uncertain—but closely watched.
As the case progresses, its outcome may not only determine the fate of the accused but also raise broader questions about how justice is administered in long-running, high-stakes criminal prosecutions.
A group of devoted Buddhist monks is walking from Fort Worth, Texas, all the way to Washington, D.C. — a 2,300-mile spiritual pilgrimage called the Walk for Peace to share peace, compassion, loving-kindness, and healing with communities across the nation. Their journey began on October 26, 2025, and is expected to conclude in mid-February 2026 at the U.S. capital. Along the way they have walked through 10 states, sharing flowers, loving presence, meditation teachings, and blessings with thousands of people they meet along the path.
What made today in Spencer, NC so wonderful wasn’t just the smiles and gifts — it was the heart-felt message these peaceful wanderers shared. They gave out flowers, offered vegetarian food, and spoke about peace that flows from within and spreads outward to transform the world.
This walk isn’t a protest — it’s a moving meditation, a prayer in action, and a reminder that peace begins with each step we take toward love, compassion, and unity.
📍 Follow their route & see where they’ll be next: Their live tracking, updates, and map are regularly shared on the Walk for Peace Facebook page: 🔗 https://www.facebook.com/walkforpeaceusa — and there you can find the official map and tracker showing current location and future stops. 📖 Inspirational Bible Verses About Peace & Love 💛 “Blessed are the peacemakers, for they shall be called sons of God.” — Matthew 5:9
Community Rallies for Justice and Unity Following Shooting Assault of Amazon Driver and Her Son in Rockingham, NC
Call for justice, Amazon Driver Rally in Ellerbe NC
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Rockingham, N.C. — Community leaders, activists, and residents of Richmond County are calling for justice, accountability, and unity following a troubling incident in which an Amazon delivery driver and her teenage son were shot at while she was performing her job duties in Rockingham, North Carolina.
The victim, Tashika Trimble, was delivering Amazon packages with her 16-year-old son when GPS directions allegedly led them to the wrong address. As they attempted to leave and locate the correct delivery location, shots were fired at their vehicle. The vehicle, a 2023 Dodge Charger, was struck, though neither Ms. Trimble nor her son was physically injured.
The alleged shooter, Sydney Pittman, a Rockingham resident, was charged with discharging a weapon into occupied property, a Class D felony, along with a misdemeanor charge of injury to personal property. Pittman was released from custody several days later. Community advocates have expressed serious concern following an alleged racially charged social media post made shortly after the incident. Pittman is also reported to have a prior history with law enforcement, including a previous assault charge that was later dismissed.
Community Rally and Call to Action
On Saturday, January 3 at 12:00 noon, a community rally was held at Macedonia Church in Ellerbe, North Carolina. The rally was organized by John Barnett, founder of T.H.U.G. (True Healing Under God).The rally brought together faith leaders, community organizations, activists, and residents in solidarity with the Trimble family and in demand of justice.
Tanya Ingram the mother of Tashika Trimble, addressed attendees, speaking on the emotional impact the incident has had on her daughter and grandson and thanking the community for its overwhelming support.
Leadership Voices Emphasize Unity and Civic Engagement
Krista Morrison, President of the Richmond County NAACP,
delivered a message of unity, encouragement, and a call to action for the community. She stressed the importance of collective support, advocacy, and civic participation, including voting. Morrison also discussed the distinction between power and force, drawing from David R. Hawkins’ book, Power vs. Force, emphasizing that lasting change is rooted in moral power and unified action.
A representative from the Richmond County Coalition for Justice and Black Empowerment
delivered a powerful address highlighting long-standing injustices faced by underserved African American communities in Richmond County and the urgent need for systemic accountability.
Organizer John Barnett called on all community organizations to stand together in unity, urging a collective front to become a force for change—not only for African American communities, but for Indigenous people and all residents of Richmond County.
Ongoing Advocacy and Media Attention
ShankRoc, a media league leader, was present at the rally and followed up on questions raised during a prior rally held in December on the steps of the Richmond County Courthouse, demonstrating continued community and media engagement.
Community leaders and activists are calling on the Richmond County District Attorney to upgrade the charges against Pittman to attempted murder and to pursue state and federal hate crime charges. John Barnett has also stated his intent to request a federal investigation.
The incident has drawn significant attention across local media, social media, and community networks. At this time, Amazon has not released a public statement regarding the incident.
The Trimble family has established a GoFundMe campaign to help offset financial and recovery-related expenses, as the incident occurred while Ms. Trimble was actively working.
The Richmond County community remains united in its demand for justice, accountability, and a safer future for all.
Candor’s Historic Train Depot Fundraiser: A Journey Through Time and Community Spirit
Candor, North Carolina, recently hosted a remarkable event celebrating history, community, and the enduring charm of its old train depot. On Thursday, November 14th, and Friday, November 16th, the town partnered with the Aberdeen Train Company for a historical fundraiser aimed at restoring the depot—a beloved local landmark that has not welcomed passengers since 1957. For decades, the depot stood as a silent witness to the town’s growth and history. While trains once regularly carried passengers through Candor, the depot had long remained quiet after train services ceased in the mid-20th century. Over the years, the town hosted occasional events, such as the dinner trains around 15 years ago and train rides during the Candor Peach Festival, but this recent fundraiser marked a renewed effort to bring the community together around this historic site. The fundraiser offered attendees a unique opportunity: a ride aboard the Aberdeen train, recreating the nostalgic experience of train travel while raising awareness and support for the depot’s restoration. Residents and visitors alike flocked to the event, traveling from nearby towns and even as far as Greensboro and Hamilton, North Carolina, to enjoy the ride. Inside the train, laughter, conversation, and a sense of camaraderie filled the air, as community members old and new shared stories, memories, and excitement. The event also served as a reminder of the importance of preserving local history. By supporting the train depot’s restoration, residents are investing not just in a building, but in the stories, memories, and experiences that define Candor’s identity. The fundraiser is hoped to be the first of many, allowing residents and visitors to enjoy the train rides, celebrate the town’s history, and contribute to a project that benefits the entire community. Attendees described the experience as “memorable” and “heartwarming,” highlighting the joy of sharing the ride with friends, neighbors, and even strangers who became friends along the way. The event beautifully showcased the spirit of Candor: a town that values its heritage, embraces its residents, and knows how to come together for a common purpose. In the end, the historic train fundraiser was more than just a ride—it was a journey through time, a celebration of community, and a hopeful first step toward restoring a cherished landmark for future generations. For Candor, the tracks of history are not just a reminder of the past—they are a path toward bringing people together, one train ride at a time.
Candor’s Historic Train Depot Fundraiser: A Journey Through Time and Community Spirit
Local leaders played a pivotal role in ensuring the event’s success. Mayor Philip Hearn, town clerk Tammy Kellis, and (Former School Teacher ) Ann Long and her husband coordinated much of the planning and logistics, demonstrating their dedication to preserving Candor’s history. Former Mayor Becky Williams greeted and welcomed patrons as they arrived, offering warm hospitality and a friendly face to both longtime residents and first-time visitors. Their efforts helped create an atmosphere of celebration and community pride that left a lasting impression on all who attended.
Mount Zion Missionary Baptist Church held its Health and Wellness Day on Saturday, November 1st, at 11:00 AM, offering a wealth of valuable information to the community. The event was thoughtfully organized by the Women of Mount Zion and facilitated by Sheryl Conrad and Minister Arletha Wall.
The program covered a range of important topics, including cardiovascular health, diabetes, men’s health, mental health, and natural medicines. Attendees were treated to an engaging and heartfelt keynote presentation by Staff Sergeant (SSGT) Alonzo Lunsford, a Purple Heart recipient and survivor of the 2009 Fort Hood Massacre in Killeen, Texas. Sergeant Lunsford shared his powerful story and offered profound insights on managing mental health and building resilience after trauma.
Additional presenters included:
Dr. Patrice Cagle, Ph.D. – Spoke on mental health awareness and introduced her new coloring book designed to assist with stress relief.
Dr. Jeannisa Bowden, Ph.D., owner of Bowden Natural Medicine in Seven Lakes, North Carolina – Discussed the benefits of natural medicine and holistic health practices.
Dr. Pandora Smith Dumas, DNP – Presented on Cardiovascular Disease, Diabetes, and Men’s Health, sharing striking statistics about how these conditions affect communities across the “Bible Belt” and “Stroke Belt” regions of the United States.
SSGT. Alonzo Lunsford – Delivered a moving presentation on overcoming trauma and the importance of prioritizing mental wellness.
Sheryl Conrad – Conducted an informative and easy-to-follow CPR demonstration, emphasizing the importance of being prepared to save lives.
The audience was encouraged to engage, ask questions, and share their experiences throughout the event. The day concluded with a healthy light lunch, providing attendees an opportunity to fellowship and reflect on the valuable lessons shared.Mount Zion Missionary Baptist Church celebrates the success of this year’s event and is considering making the Health and Wellness Day an annual tradition. The congregation looks forward to continuing its mission of
Eagle-Aggie Classic 2025: A Celebration of Rivalry, Pride & HBCU Greatness
On Saturday, September 20th, the energy at Truist Stadium on the campus of North Carolina A&T State Universitywas nothing short of electric. Fans poured in from all directions, ready to witness one of the most anticipated HBCU rivalries in the country—the legendary Eagle-Aggie Classic.
From the booming sounds of the bands to the chants echoing across the stands, it was clear: this wasn’t just a football game. It was a cultural event fueled by legacy, school pride, and pure adrenaline. Whether you were repping Aggie Blue or Eagle Maroon, there was no denying the powerful sense of unity and tradition in the air.
The game itself? One for the history books. North Carolina Central University delivered a commanding performance, defeating North Carolina A&T with a final score of 62–20. The Eagles came out strong and never let up, dominating on both sides of the ball.
But despite the scoreboard, the spirit of the Classic remained unshaken. From the players to the cheerleaders, from the alumni to the fans, everyone showed up and showed out. It was a celebration of resilience, excellence, and everything that makes HBCU culture so vibrant.
At the Eagle-Aggie Classic, even in defeat, the tradition wins. Legacy was loud, and pride was louder.