Under the Glittering Lights

Date posted: June 16, 2026

White Night

When a queen of Las Vegas’ entertainment scene requests that guests wear all-white to her annual ball, partiers and performers alike arrive in their evening finest — and come ready for an unforgettable night. Anthona McNeil’s celebration was hosted at Viva Tequila restaurant and doubled as a birthday bash for Sherry Gordy, daughter of the legendary founder of Motown Records.

YOU! HAVE THE POWER  | Black America Must Share the Voting Vibe

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BY DR. ELLEN W. BROWN

As we move through life, our actions — and inactions — create results. Those results shape our everyday experiences, whether we realize it, acknowledge it, or choose to ignore it. Think about the many vibes you share with others and how they can inspire laughter, spark memories, encourage reflection, motivate action, and even bring tears of joy or regret. 

A vibe is energy. It is the influence we create and share with those around us. 

If you have been around long enough to see generations come and go, you understand how a vibe can grow into something much greater — a source of power, strength, and collective awareness that helps guide a community forward. 

Within our culture, it is the collective vibe that motivates us to strengthen ourselves while encouraging others to do the same. It is the power of awareness, the sharing of ideas and dreams, and the willingness to participate rather than sit on the sidelines. Collective strength energizes communities of like-minded people and reminds us to simply show up. 

Each of us has our own beliefs and perspectives on how to use our voice and power. So, what is your vibe telling you? If it has you thinking about the future of America, your community, or the world, then you already understand the importance of engagement. 

Here are a few ways to share the vibe and encourage civic participation: 

Be an Example. Show up ready to listen, learn, and engage in meaningful conversations. Lead by example and make your voice count. 

Know Your Position. Many people keep their political beliefs private, and that is their choice. However, understanding your own views and being able to discuss them respectfully can help foster healthy dialogue and greater awareness. 

Encourage Participation. Everyone brings a unique perspective to the table. Be willing to share your views while respecting the opinions of others. Democracy works best when people participate. 

Pass It On. Sharing the vibe is not about telling others how to vote. It is about encouraging everyone to exercise their right to vote and engage in the democratic process. Empower people to make informed decisions and use their voices. 

Put People First. Civic engagement is ultimately about people—their hopes, concerns, and futures. It is about protecting our communities, supporting future generations, and honoring the sacrifices and legacies of those who came before us. 

The vibe is real. When people come together, share knowledge, and participate in shaping their future, communities become stronger. 

We welcome your ideas, questions, and stories to enhance the Voice. Send to me at ebrown.nci@gmail.com

KNIGHT MOVES | As summer starts, we swoon over June

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By Craig Knight

It’s June, and summer is officially here! The year 2026 is moving at a fast pace, and this month is packed with history, celebration, and great sports. 

PUT A SONG IN YOUR HEART 

June is Black Music Month — officially known as African-American Music Appreciation Month — and its origin is a great story. Legendary music producer Kenneth Gamble, media strategist Dyana Williams, and radio deejay Ed Wright successfully lobbied President Jimmy Carter, who formally declared the national observance on June 7, 1979. 

Black Music Month celebrates the roots of Black music across an extraordinary range of genres: spirituals, gospel, folk, blues, jazz, country, R&B, rock and roll, hip-hop, and rap. African-American composers have also made transformative contributions to opera, classical symphony, musical theater, and choral music. In every form, these musical influences represent an essential and treasured part of our nation’s cultural heritage.

GETTING READY FOR JUNETEENTH 

Friday, June 19 is Juneteenth! The name blends two words — “June” and “nineteenth” — and since 2021 it has been a federal holiday in the United States. 

To understand why it matters, a little history: slavery in America traces back to the 16th century, when Spanish explorers brought enslaved Africans to the New World. It persisted until the Emancipation Proclamation took effect on January 1, 1863 — but even then, Texas remained largely under Confederate control and continued to resist abolition. It wasn’t until June 19, 1865, that Union soldiers arrived in Galveston, Texas, to enforce emancipation in the state. The newly freed people took to the streets in joyful public celebration, laying the foundation for every Juneteenth commemoration that followed. 

Today, Juneteenth is marked with cookouts and barbecues, block parties, flag-raising ceremonies, community service awards, art and essay competitions for young people, and Juneteenth displays in city halls, libraries, schools, and post offices. 

This year, the celebration comes to Craig Ranch Park on Friday, June 19 with the F.A.I.T.H. Freedom Festival — the brainchild of the Chaney Family and F.A.I.T.H. Wellness Services Incorporated. The festival is free and open to the whole family, featuring cultural vendors, food trucks, and music by KCEP Power 88.1’s own NotAboiDJ. It will be hosted by DJ Ambeezy from The Wake Up Squad Morning Show, with local performances and national recording and rap artist Twista headlining! Gates open at 6 p.m. with a fireworks finale at 9:15 p.m. 

JUNE SPORTS! 

The WNBA season is in full effect, with the Las Vegas Aces gunning for another championship — LET’S GO A-C-E-S! The Vegas Golden Knights made the Western Conference Finals again — GO KNIGHTS GO!!!

STAY AWARE! 

June is also a month of awareness, including: Alzheimer’s and Brain Awareness Month, Men’s Health Month, National Migraine & Headache Awareness Month, ● LGBTQ Pride Month, Caribbean American Heritage Month, and Immigrant Heritage Month. 

As we celebrate Black Music Month, Juneteenth, professional sports, and all that June has to offer — let’s remember to do it responsibly. 

Until the next edition of Knight Moves: educate yourself, and share the knowledge with others. God bless you!

LIVING: A HOUSE IS A HOME

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TV can bring home tranquility, adventure

Television can do more than deliver news and entertainment — it can also help create a peaceful atmosphere in your home. With so much happening in the world, many people are looking for ways to bring positive energy into their living spaces. 

Nature programs, scenic travel videos, and relaxing 4K footage of destinations such as Norway, Paris, Ireland, and Greece can transform a room into a tranquil retreat. Turn down the volume and play smooth jazz or instrumental music, or select YouTube videos that combine beautiful landscapes with calming sounds. 

With our country going through so much, starting your day with inspiring images and soothing music can be a refreshing alternative to nonstop news — and may help set a more positive tone for the day ahead. 

LIVING: PLANTING YOUR SEEDS

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Tree of Life

The bright Las Vegas sun can be beautiful, but its intense summer heat also calls for caution. 

Planting trees around your home’s outdoor spaces is a smart way to create natural shade and help keep your property cooler during the hottest months of the year. 

Shaded areas also provide a comfortable retreat for children and families who enjoy spending time outdoors. Beyond their beauty, trees can enhance your landscape while offering relief from the desert sun.

LIVING: FOOD FOR THE SOUL

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Cajun Catfish Sandwich

Sometimes the best meal is also the simplest. When you’re craving something flavorful, satisfying, and easy to prepare, a Cajun Catfish Sandwich is hard to beat. Crispy on the outside, tender on the inside, and packed with bold Southern flavors, this sandwich is a delicious way to bring a little Louisiana-inspired spice to your table.

INGREDIENTS

• Vegetable oil (or your preferred cooking oil), for frying
• 1½cups yellow cornmeal or your favorite fish-fry coating mix
• 2 large eggs
• 4 catfish fillets
• 1 teaspoon cayenne pepper
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon Himalayan salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 1 teaspoon lemon pepper seasoning
• Juice of 1 lemon
• 1 red onion, sliced
• Romaine lettuce leaves
• 1 large beefsteak tomato, sliced
• Sandwich rolls or bread of choice
• Remoulade sauce, or mayonnaise and hot sauce
• Sliced pickles (optional)

DIRECTIONS

1. Pour oil into a large frying pan or deep skillet to a depth of about 4 inches. Heat over medium-high heat until the oil reaches 350°F.

2. In a medium bowl, combine the cornmeal (or fish-fry mix) with the cayenne pepper, smoked paprika, onion powder, garlic powder, salt, black pepper, and lemon pepper seasoning.

3. In a separate bowl, whisk together the eggs and 1 tablespoon of water.

4. Season the catfish fillets lightly with additional Cajun spices if desired, then squeeze fresh lemon juice over each fillet.

5. Dip each fillet into the egg mixture, then coat thoroughly in the seasoned cornmeal mixture.

6. Carefully place the coated catfish into the hot oil and fry until golden brown and cooked through, about 2 to 4 minutes per side, depending on thickness.

7. Remove the catfish and drain on paper towels.

8. Spread remoulade sauce — or a mixture of mayonnaise and hot sauce — on your bread or rolls. Layer with the fried catfish, sliced tomato, red onion, lettuce, and pickles if desired. 

Serve immediately and enjoy a crispy, spicy treat full of Southern flavor.

How Juneteenth Came to Be

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The story of Juneteenth began on “Freedom’s Eve,” January 1, 1863 — when enslaved and free African-Americans gathered in churches and homes across the country, waiting for news that the Emancipation Proclamation had taken effect. At midnight, their prayers were answered as enslaved people in the Confederate states were declared legally free. 

However, freedom did not arrive immediately for everyone. Although the Emancipation Proclamation became effective in 1863, it could not be enforced in areas that remained under Confederate control. In Texas, the westernmost Confederate state, more than 250,000 enslaved African Americans remained in bondage for over two additional years. 

Freedom finally arrived on June 19, 1865, when approximately 2,000 Union troops landed in Galveston Bay, Texas, and announced that all enslaved people in the state were free by executive decree. The historic day became known as “Juneteenth” and has since been celebrated as a symbol of freedom, resilience, and the ongoing pursuit of equality. 

On June 17, 2021, Juneteenth was officially recognized as a U.S. federal holiday when President Joe Biden signed the Juneteenth National Independence Day Act into law.

SNMA Legacy of Excellence Soiree

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Celebrating Las Vegas’ Black medical community — medical students, residents, physicians, pre-med students, and allies all in one room, lifting each other up and investing in the future of medicine. Nights like this are a powerful reminder of what’s possible when community comes first.

HEALTHIER YOU: What a headache! Dealing with migraines as a pregnant woman

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BY DR. MARGUERITE BRATHWAITE OB-GYN

Pregnancy brings remarkable changes to the body — and for many women, that includes headaches and migraines. Hormonal fluctuations, particularly shifts in estrogen levels, are a primary driver, and women who already lived with migraines before conceiving may find that their symptoms intensify during early pregnancy. 

Research consistently points to the first trimester as the most challenging period, when hormonal changes are most pronounced. The good news: many women report noticeable improvement in the second and third trimesters. In fact, multiple medical studies suggest that migraine symptoms ease by the end of the third trimester in 67–89% of pregnant women. 

Beyond hormones, other common triggers during pregnancy include stress, skipped meals due to nausea, and vomiting from morning sickness — all of which can set off or worsen headache episodes.

Signs of a Migraine or Headache Attack 

Pregnant women may experience any of the following: 

• Throbbing, pounding, or pulsating pain, often on one side of the head 

• Pain around the eyes or behind the cheeks 

• Sensitivity to light, noise, or smells 

• Visual disturbances such as flashing lights 

• Dizziness or trouble focusing 

• Nausea or vomiting 

• Fatigue

Practical Ways to Find Relief 

While medication options are limited during pregnancy, several lifestyle adjustments can help reduce the frequency and severity of headaches: 

• Eat regular meals — skipping meals can trigger episodes 

• Stay hydrated throughout the day 

• Prioritize sleep and maintain a consistent schedule 

• Stay gently active with pregnancy-safe movement 

Women’s Innovative Care is committed to supporting healthy pregnancies and identifying potential complications as early as possible. Through compassionate care and advanced screening services, the team works closely with mothers-to-be to promote the best possible outcomes. If you have questions or concerns about your pregnancy, you may schedule an appointment by calling (702) 413-7740 or visiting 851 South Rampart Blvd., Suite 160, Las Vegas, NV.

HISTORIC BLACK VEGAS: Revisiting Las Vegas History: Who Was the First Black Doctor?

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BY CLAYTEE D. WHITE

When I interviewed community entrepreneur Sarann Knight Preddy in the mid-1990s, she told me there had been a Black doctor in Las Vegas during the 1940s. She recalled that he was a chiropractor. Chiropractic care is often considered an alternative form of medicine compared to traditional healthcare, and many people associate chiropractors with treating musculoskeletal injuries, such as those resulting from automobile accidents. Becoming a chiropractor requires extensive medical education and completion of a Doctor of Chiropractic program; but while chiropractors are highly trained healthcare professionals, they are generally not classified as medical doctors. 

Recently, I received a text message from Minister Stretch Sanders regarding articles he discovered in The Las Vegas Age (October 19, 1947) and the Las Vegas Review-Journal (September 30, 1948). These articles indicate that Dr. Roy G. Hay, D.C., N.D., may have been the first Black doctor to practice in Las Vegas. Preddy had remembered the physician as “Dr. DeHay,” which was likely a mistaken recollection of Dr. Hay’s name. Upon reviewing Sanders’ findings, I immediately realized he had uncovered the doctor Preddy had referenced all those years ago. 

As I often use terms such as Black or African-American when discussing community history, I found Sanders’ additional observation noteworthy. In his message, he described Dr. Hay as a “physician of color” and noted that Dr. Hay was not descended from Africans enslaved in America. According to Sanders, Dr. Hay identified as Afro-Latino. 

So, has our history changed? 

Our knowledge of history evolves when new evidence comes to light. What makes Sanders’ discovery particularly significant is that Dr. Hay was more than a healthcare provider. He operated a free clinic for children at F and Jackson Streets, supported by churches and businesses throughout the Westside community. Like many early civic leaders, he was deeply involved in community development. 

The Review-Journal reported: 

Pointing to a program of self-help as one of the primary objectives of the Westside Chamber of Commerce, Dr. Roy G. Hay, president of the newly formed organization’s executive committee, speaking before a meeting of members and guests, said the chamber is to be an instrument of civic improvement and better living conditions with a non-sectarian, non-partisan policy. 

The question remains: Should Dr. Hay be recognized as the first Black physician in Las Vegas, the first African-American physician, or the first Latino physician? 

At this point, I will likely continue to identify Dr. Charles I. West as the first African American physician in Las Vegas while recognizing Dr. Roy G. Hay as the city’s first Afro-Latino physician and one of its earliest Black healthcare pioneers. 

What do you think? Does the distinction matter? 

To me, it does. My goal is to help chronicle the history of the Las Vegas Black community as accurately as possible. For too long, the contributions of Black Americans have not received the recognition they deserve within the broader story of our nation. At the same time, it is important to honor the unique contributions of all communities and cultures that helped build Las Vegas. 

Each group has its own story, and together those stories form a richer, more complete history. By recognizing those distinctions while celebrating our shared accomplishments, we can better understand how our collective efforts have contributed to creating a community — and a world — that works for everyone.