By Rob Okun

Come senators, congressmen
Please heed the call
Don’t stand in the doorway
Don’t block up the hall… 

―Bob Dylan

A two-week truce. We’ve temporarily slipped from the hangman’s noose. Still, there’s a madman president on the loose.

We are living in an Upside Down moment, and the danger is no longer metaphorical. You don’t need to have watched Stranger Things to recognize that the threat is real, not lurking in another dimension. It’s prowling in the White House, and no blinking lights are spelling out SOS.

This is what an Upside Down world looks like: Donald Trump, an accidental president, openly threatening catastrophic violence against another nation’s civilian infrastructure, while those with the constitutional authority to stop him hesitate, equivocate, or remain silent.

No matter what happens next, history will remember: On Easter Sunday 2026, Donald Trump posted a message so reckless, so unhinged, that it would be disqualifying in any functioning democracy. Threatening the destruction of Iran’s power plants and bridges, invoking apocalyptic language, and wrapping it all in bravado, he revealed not just poor judgment but a fundamental disregard for human life and the rule of law. Two days later, he added this warning: “A whole civilization will die tonight, never to be brought back again. I don’t want that ‌to ⁠happen, but it probably will.”

The response was immediate—but not where it matters most.

Sen. Chris Murphy of Connecticut spoke out about the Easter threat: if he were in Trump’s Cabinet, he said, he would be calling constitutional lawyers to discuss invoking the 25th Amendment. Others echoed the alarm. Even some of Trump’s most reliable allies on the far right voiced scathing criticism.

For a brief moment, it seemed possible that outrage might translate into action. It has not…yet.

Unfortunately, there is little credible evidence that the vice president and a majority of the Cabinet are engaged in serious discussions to removing Trump under the 25th Amendment. Vice President JD Vance, a critic of the war, nevertheless has shown no sign of breaking ranks. How is it possible that loyalty—political, ideological, or personal—continues to outweigh constitutional responsibility?

And Congress? Missing in action. Despite clear authority under the War Powers Resolution, a Republican-controlled Congress has done nothing to rein in Trump—and is showing no signs of changing direction.

So it is falling to the American people to do what elected officials are failing to do: unseat a president unfit to serve.

Activists in organizations like CODEPINK mobilized emergency protests in Washington and across the country, integrating opposition to the Iran war into the broader pro-democracy resistance.

Protests against the war need to be as ubiquitous as daffodils in spring—visible, sustained, impossible to ignore. The anti-Vietnam War movement did not stop the war overnight, but it changed the political calculus until continuing it became untenable.

What about the military? Senior officers and military lawyers understand what’s at stake. Orders to deliberately target civilian infrastructure—power grids, bridges, population centers are war crimes (an absurd notion since war itself is a crime.)

There are laws limiting actions in armed conflict, and they are not optional. It applies to those who carry out orders, not just those who give them, creating a tension within the chain of command. Last fall, six members of Congress posted a video reminding service members, “you can refuse to carry out illegal orders.”

Meanwhile, the judiciary, often imagined as a final safeguard, has—for now—remained largely silent. Courts do not move at the speed of crisis. They require time. And time is an enemy of this moment.

So where does that leave us? With a reality both sobering and clarifying. The formal mechanisms of restraint—Congress, the Cabinet, the courts—are stalled, reactive, or unwilling. The most immediate pressure is coming from two places: people in the streets, and professionals inside the system trying to hold the line. Neither is sufficient on its own.,

The millions at No Kings rallies have been doing their part. Now, perhaps, they’ll take a new tack. Imagine citizens moving from street protests into the halls of Congress, confronting their representatives in their Washington offices and home districts. Asking, insisting, refusing to leave without an answer to a simple question: What are you doing—right now—to stop him? To stop the madness?

We know this Congress can’t be counted on to act on its own. Apparently, it will only act when the cost of inaction becomes too high—politically, publicly, unmistakably.

The people have begun doing their part. Congress must now do theirs.

~~~~~

Rob Okun (robokun50@gmail.com), syndicated by PeaceVoice, is editor emeritus of Voice Male, which has long chronicled the profeminist men’s movement. 

Michigan Wolverines reign supreme as the 2026 NCAA National Basketball Champions.

Consisting of transfer players, Michigan’s five starters were proud to enter the final 4 and then the final 2 in March Madness 2026.

On Easter Monday University of Michigan faced off against the three-time NCAA Champion University of Connecticut. By the end of the evening the nation’s premier team was announced. The final score UCON 63, Michigan 69.

Michigan repeated its last national victory in 1989, when by the end of the evening the team assumed the elevated position on the podium and received the National Champions Trophy. Coach Dusty May and the Michigan Wolverines Basketball team dominated the 2026 season and last night’s victory was the payoff.  GO BLUE!!!

 

World Premiere Documentary at the Miami Film Festival!!! The Marshall L. Davis Sr. African Heritage Cultural Arts Center will take center stage onFriday, April 10 at 8:00 p.m. with the world premiere of An Instrumental Start: A Model for the Nation, a new documentary by filmmakers Brian Bayerl and Michael Huter, presented at the acclaimed Miami Film Festival. The documentary explores the transformative impact of the Center’s music education initiatives and demonstrates how access to arts education can empower young people, strengthen communities, and serve as a model for cultural institutions nationwide. Through compelling storytelling, the film captures the legacy and enduring mission of the Center, which has served generations of Miami families through music, theater, dance, and visual arts education and programming. The documentary offers an inspiring look at how arts education rooted in community engagement can nurture creativity, discipline, and opportunity for young people. “This documentary reflects the heart of what the Marshall L. Davis Sr. African Heritage Cultural Arts Center has represented for decades,” said Daniella Levine Cava, Mayor of Miami-Dade County. “It is about access, opportunity, and the arts as a transformative power to enrich lives and uplift communities.” Co-director Michael Huter noted that the Center’s work represents a national model for arts education. “What we found at the Marshall L. Davis Sr. African Heritage Cultural Arts Center was extraordinary. The dedication to cultivating young talent and preserving cultural heritage demonstrates how community-based arts programs can inspire the next generation across the country.” Filmmaker Brian Bayerl added, “The story we wanted to tell goes beyond music education. It’s about mentorship, cultural legacy, and the power of the arts to give young people a sense of purpose and belonging.” Presented by Miami Dade College, the Miami Film Festival is one of the nation’s leading film festivals, showcasing new work from emerging and established filmmakers from around the world while celebrating Miami’s vibrant cultural landscape. The film’s world premiere places the Marshall L. Davis Sr. African Heritage Cultural Arts Center on an international stage, highlighting its role as a cornerstone of cultural education and artistic development. “This recognition underscores the importance of preserving cultural spaces that nurture creativity and community,” said Marshall L. Davis Sr., the Center’s longtime director. “We are honored that this story—shared by our alumni, including Robert Battle, former artistic director of Alvin Ailey American Dance Theater, and Tarell Alvin McCraney, Academy Award–winning co-writer of Moonlight—will be presented to audiences from Miami and beyond.” Also featured in the documentary are acclaimed actress Phylicia Rashad and renowned tap dancer Savion Glover. The 2026 Miami Film Festival runs April 9–19, bringing filmmakers, artists, and audiences together to celebrate the power of storytelling through film. Tickets are available at: An Instrumental Start – A Model for the Nation – Miami Film Festival   Join us!!!! The code for complimentary tickets to the film is: INSTRUMENTAL   You can offer use of the code for free tickets to your DAHCAC families. Here are the steps to order tickets: 1. Access the film’s page:  https://miamifilmfestival.com/program/event/an-instrumental-start-a-model-for-the-nation/ 2. Click on “Book Tickets” 3. Put in the number of tickets desired 4. Press “Check Out” 5. Write INSTRUMENTAL in the Promo Code space and tap Apply 6. Fill in your information to receive the tickets to your phone’s wallet or by text. It will also come by email. 7. Each ticket has it’s own QR code so they need to either be printed or saved to the phone    Please take advantage of this offer and let’s fill the theater!   ​

 

Address Marshall L. Davis African Heritage Cultural Arts Center 6161 Northwest 22nd Avenue Miami, FL 33142 Phone +305-638-6771 Follow us

 

It is the policy of Miami-Dade County to comply with all of the requirements of the Americans with Disabilities Act. To request materials in accessible format, sign language interpreters, CART, and/or any accommodation to participate in Marshall L. Davis,Sr. African Heritage Cultural Arts Center sponsored programs or meetings, please contact Gloria Diaz at 305-638-6771 or ahcac@miamidade.gov, at least (5) five days in advance to initiate your request. TTY users may also call 711 (Florida Relay Service.)

 

CORAL SPRINGS, Fla. – Tonight, a Candlelight Vigil Honoring Coral Springs Vice Mayor, and former Tamarac Employee, Hon. Nancy Metayer.

It is with profound sadness that we share the tragic passing of Vice Mayor Nancy Metayer of Coral Springs, whose life was taken far too soon on April 1, 2026. This heartbreaking loss has deeply impacted communities across Broward County and beyond.

Nancy was a trailblazer, known for her passion for public service, her advocacy for equity and opportunity, and her unwavering commitment to uplifting others. As the first Black and Haitian-American woman elected to the Coral Springs City Commission, she inspired many through her leadership, strength, and vision for a better future.

She was also a former employee of the City of Tamarac, where she served with distinction and left a lasting impression on our staff and residents. Nancy was not just a colleague—she was family. Her warmth, dedication, and genuine spirit touched everyone who had the privilege of working alongside her.

During this time of grief, it is important that we come together as a community to honor her life and legacy.

Candlelight Vigil Honoring Coral Springs Vice Mayor, and former Tamarac Employee, Hon. Nancy Metayer.

Tuesday, April 7, 2026

7:00 PM until 7:45 pm

Tamarac City Hall

7525 NW 88th Avenue

Tamarac, FL 33321

We encourage all residents to attend and bring a candle as we gather in reflection, unity, and remembrance. This vigil will serve as a moment to celebrate Nancy’s life of service, offer our collective prayers, and stand in support of her family and loved ones.

Though her life was cut short, Nancy Metayer’s legacy will live on through the countless lives she impacted and the example she set for all of us. Let us honor her by continuing to build stronger, more compassionate communities.

]]> https://www.sfltimes.com/news/honorable-nancy-metayer-a-candlelight-vigil/feed 0 https://www.sfltimes.com/news/south-carolina-womens-basketball-season-ends-with-a-game-loss-and-season-victory https://www.sfltimes.com/news/south-carolina-womens-basketball-season-ends-with-a-game-loss-and-season-victory#respond Mon, 06 Apr 2026 18:35:37 +0000 https://www.sfltimes.com/?p=80531

University of South Carolina Women’s Basketball Coach Dawn Staley

By Staff Report

CHARLESTON, SC. – University of South Carolina completes the 2025-26 NCAA season as the national title runner-up the second-best team in the US. This is their second year of achieving the number two position. But sadness has not defined the team’s performance for the 25-26 basketball season. The season was a powerful success and Coach Dawn Stanly remains on the right track.

The Easter Sunday showdown between the two best teams in the nation, South Carolina Gamecocks and the UCLA Bruins proved difficult for early diners.

As the battle unfolded, Gamecocks’ fans likely suffered indigestion while every minute of the game solidified the ultimate loss to the Bruins. The Gamecocks fell behind in the first minutes and remained behind throughout. Ultimately, UCLA clinched the top spot with a 79 -51 victory.

                                                          Dawn Staley at University of Virginia

Despite this, Carolina had a season to be proud of.  Carolina had a fifth consecutive Season SEC title. This is their sixth title in the last seven years.

Coach Dawn Staley shared, “We just didn’t have it today. We tried, but we just didn’t have it today. They were the better team today. Congratulations to them.” “Sometimes you’re part of women’s basketball history, and it’s not favorable to you. … If you’re going to lose to a team, you want to lose to a team that just really outworked you, out-executed you, made it very difficult for you to perform at a high level. It was a direct reflection of what they (UCLA) did to us.”  I enjoy every challenge that basketball creates. I enjoy facing them. I enjoy playing the hand that I’m dealt.”

Boca Raton Hospital in Boca Raton, Fl.

By Staff Report

BOCA RATON, Fla. – Alzheimer’s Foundation of America Awards Boca Raton Regional Hospital $250,000 Grant to Support Innovative Memory Disorder Research

April 6, 2026- The Alzheimer’s Foundation of America (AFA) has awarded a $250,000 research grant to Boca Raton Regional Hospital to support cutting-edge research at the hospital’s Marcus Neurosciences Institute (MNI) Memory Disorder Center. The grant will be used to help advance the understanding, diagnosis, and treatment of cognitive disorders, improving care for millions of individuals and families affected by memory-related conditions.

Funding will support two research initiatives over the next three years.

1. Studying Early Memory Concerns (Subjective Cognitive Impairment, SCI)
Many people notice memory lapses or difficulty concentrating even when standard tests show normal results. Researchers are studying these early signs, using advanced brain imaging and follow-up testing over time, to identify patterns that may indicate a higher risk of developing Alzheimer’s or other forms of dementia. This work could help detect cognitive changes earlier and design strategies to slow or prevent progression.

2. Understanding Treatment Resistance in Normal Pressure Hydrocephalus (NPH)
NPH is a condition that can cause walking difficulties, bladder problems, and memory loss. While a standard procedure to drain excess fluid helps many patients, some do not see improvement or experience further cognitive decline. Researchers at Marcus Neurosciences are studying why some patients respond better than others, including testing for potential overlaps with Alzheimer’s disease. The goal is to tailor treatments more effectively and develop new options for those who do not benefit from existing procedures.

“Finding new, more effective ways to detect, diagnose, treat, and ultimately cure Alzheimer’s disease is impossible without new scientific research,” said AFA President & CEO Charles J. Fuschillo, Jr. “We are pleased to support MNI’s innovative research and are hopeful that it will advance the science surrounding brain health and ultimately lead to the breakthrough that can’t come soon enough.”

“Continued scientific progress depends on research projects like this,” said AFA Founder & Board Chair Bert E. Brodsky. “This grant is both an investment in MNI’s promising scientific work and an investment in hope that it will result in meaningful new discoveries in the fight against Alzheimer’s disease and other memory disorders.”

“We are deeply grateful to the Alzheimer’s Foundation of America for their generous support of our research at the Marcus Neurosciences Institute. This funding allows us to expand important work focused on earlier detection and better understanding of Alzheimer’s disease and related memory disorders. Support like this directly strengthens our ability to improve care and bring hope to patients and families in our community,” said G. Peter Gliebus, MD FAAN, Chief of Neurology Lead, Cognitive and Behavioral Program at Marcus Neurosciences Institute, BHSF.

MNI is a leading, state-of-the-art neuroscience center dedicated to the diagnosis, treatment, and research of neurological disorders. The 57,000-square-foot facility includes a 20-bed Neuro Intensive Care and Step-Down Unit; four dedicated operating rooms with advanced imaging technology; and specialized monitoring in patient rooms to track neurological and cardiovascular function. MNI emphasizes both innovative medical care and patient-centered recovery environments, including private rooms with natural light and family-friendly spaces.

AFA is able to award research grants such as this through the generosity of individuals and organizations. To support AFA’s research efforts, visit alzfdn.org/donate or call 866-232-8484. 100 percent of all research-designated donations go towards funding scientific projects.

###

About Alzheimer’s Foundation of America (AFA)
The Alzheimer’s Foundation of America (AFA) is a non-profit organization whose mission is to provide support, services and education to individuals, families and caregivers affected by Alzheimer’s disease and related dementias nationwide and to fund research for better treatment and a cure. Its services include a National Toll-Free Helpline (866-232-8484) staffed entirely by licensed social workers, caregiver support groups, educational programs and publications for caregivers, dementia-care training for healthcare professionals, the National Memory Screening Program, and more. For more information about AFA, call 866-232-8484, visit www.alzfdn.org<http://www.alzfdn.org>, o

STATEWIDE, Fla. –  On Wednesday, April 8 at 10 a.m., the nonpartisan Florida Policy Institute (FPI) is publishing a report that estimates the potential costs and benefits of implementing a statewide paid family leave program for working Floridians in both the public and private sectors. FPI models four different program scenarios.

Specifically, the report includes:

• estimates of how many Floridians would benefit (and it breaks those figures down by age range and race/ethnicity)
• examples of how much Floridians would receive weekly
• estimated costs to pay for paid leave programs with payroll deductions

There is no scheduled press conference at this time.

WHO: Florida Policy Institute

WHAT: Release of new research on what a comprehensive paid leave program could look like in Florida

WHEN: The report will go live on FPI’s website on Wednesday, April 8 at 10 a.m.

ADDITIONAL INFORMATION

Under the Family and Medical Leave Act , working people in the United States are granted 12 weeks of leave without concern for losing their job under certain circumstances; however, the leave is unpaid.

While Florida provides paid family leave to some public workers, there is no statewide paid family leave policy covering workers in both the public and private sectors.

FPI is an independent, nonpartisan and nonprofit organization dedicated to advancing state policies and budgets that improve economic mobility and the quality of life for all Floridians.