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ARE WILLIAMS■ /AZ PHOTO REACHING 100,000 WEEKLY READERS WE RECORD BLACK HISTORY

High School Hoops Playoffs To Tip Off

Shani Davis Tastes Gold!

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WEDNESDAY, FEBRUARY 24, 2010

Buffalo Soldiers Re-enactors Founder Released From Prison

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In Sports

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VOLUME 42, ISSUE 43

Thrills & Spills At Bill Pickett Rodeo

By Floyd Alvin Galloway This Black History Month has a special meaning for Charles F. Long II, and his family. Last Thursday, February 18, the Arizona State Department of Corrections released a man many called Colonel Long.

Founder and president of America’s Buffalo Soldiers ReEnactors Association (ABSRA), Long was convicted of reckless manslaughter and aggravated assault in January of 2005 by an all white jury, for the death of 14 year old Anthony Haynes, at a tough love boot camp near Buckeye Arizona run by Long.

The controversial trial, in which the accident victim’s mother was found not to have disclosed her child’s suicidal tendencies to camp officials, and also revealed that she was still receiving welfare checks on behalf of her deceased son, ended with a conviction – a surprise to many.

Maricopa County Superior Judge Ronald Reinstein sentenced Long to six years in prison. His release was three months short of the full term.

He now has to complete 10 months of probation.

Long said he is not bitter about the time he spent in prison and actually saw it as a “dark gift.”

Rated one of the top 10 news stories of the decade by The Arizona Republic newspaper, in a two hour exclusive interview with the Arizona Informant, Long said he never forgot Haynes and prayed for him.

“I didn’t do all the work I did to go out of business,” said Long. “If we would have been given his medical history like we should have he never would have been in the camp.”

Long said he thought he knew God before going into

A. GALLOWAY/AZI PHOTO

Charles F. Long II

prison, but came to know him even closer during his stay.

Showing a well-used Bible with his notes in every available space in the margins and highlighted text throughout, he noted, “This is what got me through when the phone calls and the letters stopped.” It was new when his wife Carmelina gave it to him when he first went to prison.

He said what he missed most was his son’s football games, his son and daughter’s prom and graduation and the opportunity to vote for the first Black president of the United States.

Long was transferred six times to different facilities during his term, but at each place he says God put special people in his life to uplift him. He began to use his time in prison as a teaching time and became known as a soldier for the Lord and became a Chaplin’s assistant.

Long plans to appeal his conviction on a number of grounds including ineffective assistance, prosecutorial misconduct, jury misconduct, reckless endangerment of a child and adult, corruption, conspiracy, and others.

But he is also looking to build his dream – Fort Powell America’s Buffalo Soldiers Military Academy – a vocational college for lost veterans, ex-offenders and at-risk adults ages 21-61.

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Rain Can’t Dampen Cowboys, Fans Rodeo Spirit

By Floyd Alvin Galloway Though it wasn’t the postcard weather most Arizonans are familiar with, warm sunshine and blue skies, the rain on February 20 couldn’t dampen the enjoyment fans had at the Bill Pickett Invitational Rodeo at Rawhide in Chandler.

The rain stopped long enough for the first show to start and end under sunny weather, but the second show in the evening did get a little wet start, but as the show must go on and it did and the rain ceased again under heavenly orders.

The 26th year of the nation’s only touring Black rodeo, the

Bill Pickett Rodeo has some of the best cowboys and cowgirls around, riding, roping, and wrestling horses and bulls. The skillful participants kicked off their 2010 schedule in Arizona.

The family oriented event is an educational experience and gives an exciting perspective to See Rodeo, Page 2

Attorney Gen. Goddard Seminar Helps Seniors Beware

By Floyd Alvin Galloway Every fourth Thursday of each month Tanner Community Development Corporation (TCDC) holds its Seasoned Generation Forums to provide valuable information and resources focused on senior issues, ranging from care giving, to wills and trust to chronic diseases and much more. They are to introduce, educate and update seniors and those families and friends of seniors on issues that may affect them A. GALLOWAY/AZI PHOTO directly or indirectly.

Arizona Attorney General Terry Goddard greets the audience, includOn February 18, in conjunc- ing Georgie and Calvin Goode who had welcomed the attendees. tion with Arizona Attorney and scams, personal safety, iden- office is a company claiming to Terry Goddard, the Senior Anti- tity theft, mortgage scams and lower your property tax. “They send you documents that are Crime University was held at reverse mortgages and others.

“Keeping Arizona seniors very official looking.”

Tanner Square in downtown Goddard noted that thouPhoenix. The four-hour presen- well-informed provides the best tation had three-50 minute defense against frauds and sands of people had been affectbreakout sessions with three scams,” said Goddard. The ed by the scam, even some attentopics each covering areas on attorney general noted that the dees in the audience had been.

See Seniors, Page 2 Medicare fraud, avoiding frauds number one scam coming to his

2

WEDNESDAY, FEBRUARY 24, 2010

IN THE NEWS

ARIZONA INFORMANT

Bill Pickett Rodeo Features Hard Riding Action, Community Involvement Cont’d. from Page 1 the history of Blacks in America and the contributions they have made to make this one of the best countries in the world.

Honoring the contributions of the legendary cowboy, showman and rodeo champion, Bill Pickett, who invented the technique of bulldogging, the rodeo is also a place to gather important information from the vendors that participate on health issues, social and economic issues as well.

Erica Alexander, a principal in the Chandler School District, says her and her husband make this one of their annual family events. “We love coming to the rodeo. Our children love watching the bull riding.”

Lanette Campbell, owner of Diachia Tre’ a local marketing company that is responsible for bringing the event to the

Valley for the last few years, was happy everybody enjoyed themselves and came out in spite of the weather conditions.

“I want to thank all the contestants, sponsors, volunteers, and spectators who attended the Bill Pickett Rodeo to compete, volunteer, or just to show a round of applause. This Rodeo would not be a success without each and every one of them,” said Campbell. “Again, we appreciate the support you were able to contribute to this year's event,” she added.

The theme of this years tour “A Taste of Passion” is reflective of the passion the participants have for the event and the love they have making the fans happy-giving there best in good weather and bad.

The tour ends in November with the championship rodeo in Los Angeles.

The Arizona Informant (USPS 051-770) is published weekly, every Wednesday, by Arizona Informant Publishing Company.

KICKIN’ H I G H N O W

— IN MEMORY OF FOUNDERS — CLOVES C. CAMPBELL SR. & DR. CHARLES CAMPBELL Roland W. Campbell, Jr. Co-Publisher, CEO Cloves Campbell, Jr. Co-Publisher, Board Chairman Chief Operating Officer

In addition to rootin’ tootin’ rodeo action, many health and service organizations got involved including the 2010 Census (above) and the Tanner Community Development Corporation (below).

ALVIN GALLOWAY/AZI PHOTOS

Community Relations Lanette Campbell Graphic Design & Production ADP/RCBradley Robert Daniels Leah Staten Staff Reporters G. Napier Barnes III Bobby Burns Michael A. Dean Ima Denmon Karen Flemister Mike Flemister Floyd Galloway Wardell Holder Shereka Jackson Wayne Parham Deborah René Sandra D. Scott Jessie Vanderson Danny L. White Arne Williams

AG Hold Senior Anti-Crime University At Seasoned Generation Forum Cont’d. from Page 1 Goddard stated that there are legitimate companies that can do this, but it has to be done before April 15, people were receiving the bogus mailer in May and June. He noted they got lucky on this one though because for some reason their mail was not being forwarded to the Texas address it was supposed to and mail piled up at the Arizona post office.

Linda Lucente, coordinator of TCDC Seasoned Generations forums noted that it is important to that this information gets to seniors so they can avoid a lot of heart ache and drama in their lives.

“There are people out there that have no problem taking advantage of seniors so we have to make sure the seniors are well informed about such people and scams,” said Lucente, who was also the presenter on reverse mortgages.

Goddard’s office has several pamphlets and information on several areas of concerns for seniors. One such informational booklet entitled “Top Ten Scams” has information on red flags to watch out for in auto purchases and repairs, workat-home businesses, certified check fraud, charity fraud and scams, internet auctions and fraud, identity theft, mortgage foreclo-

Sports Editor Vincent R. Crawford Religion Editor Florence Darby Entertainment Editor Deborah René

sure rescue schemes, payday and quick cash loans, prize notification scams and telemarketing rip-offs.

The attorney general’s office also is looking for volunteers to assist as senior sleuths. Because of budget cuts and reductions in his office, these individuals serve as eyes and ears to report unscrupulous companies and individuals that are preying on the public, especially the communities most vulnerable, the seniors.

For more information regarding TCDC programs call 602-253-6904.

For more information regarding Arizona Attorney General programs call 602-542-5763 or the elder help line 602-542-2124.

Editorial & Business Office 1746 East Madison, Suite 2 Phoenix, AZ 85034-2438 Phone 602-257-9300 Fax 602-257-0547 ainewspaper@qwest.net Office Manager Nancy Thomas-Jones Subscriptions $30 per year in-state $35 out-of-state All subscriptions payable in advance. Periodical postage paid at Phoenix, AZ. Postmaster: Send address changes to Arizona Informant, 1746 East Madison, Suite 2, Phoenix, AZ 85034-2438.

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Credo of the Black Press The Black Press believes that America can best lead the world away from racial and national antagonisms when it accords to every person, regardless of race, color or creed, full human and legal rights.

Career law officer Gerald Richard (right), now a special liaison with the state attorney general’s office, talks with Gerald Cooper.

Hating no person, fearing no person, the Black Press strives to help every person in the firm belief that all are hurt as long as anyone is held back.

COMMUNITY CALENDAR COMMUNITY CALENDAR COMMUNITY CALENDAR COMMUNITY CALENDAR - FEBRUARY WED 24 Chandler-Gilbert

Community College will host Chief Justice of the Arizona Supreme Court Rebecca Berch at 7 p.m. in room C110 on the college's Pecos Campus. Chief Justice Berch will speak to CGCC students and community members on a variety of important judicial items, including the merit selection system, followed by a question and answer session.

This event is free and open to the public. CGCC is located at 2626 E. Pecos Rd. in Chandler. For information call 480-732-7030.

THU 25 South Mountain

Community 30th Anniversary College Alumni Gathering from 5:30 to 7:30 p.m. in the SMCC Student Union, 7050 S. 24th Street in Phoenix (just north of Baseline Road.) All former students invited. RSVP by phone to 602-243-8301 or via e-mail to smcc@southmountaincc.edu.

THU-SUN 25-28 Black History Celebration and Multi-cultural Music Festival. 2/25 Community Appreciation Night at Skatezone 13550 W. Van Buren, 6-11 p.m., free skating, free food.

2/26 Kick Off Concert at Castles

N' Coasters 6-11 p.m., featuring R&B recording artist Fel Davis, special discounted all day ride past. 2/27 and 2/28 Annual Black History Celebration at the Peoria Municipal Complex Amphitheater 83rd Ave between Olive and Grand. Event include: live music gospel, blues, jazz,R&B vendors, 3on3 basketball, car show, free arcade tent, free parking.

Donation asked, ages 6 and under free. More information: 623-2040959 or www.aznbhc.org

FRI 26 Circle of Sisters Book Club will meet at the Paradise Bakery at the I-10 and Ray Road (940 N. 54th St., Chandler) at 7

p.m. The book that we'll discuss is "Vernon Can Read: A Memoir by Vernon Jordan". If you are an avid reader, and interested in meeting other women of color who share your love of books, please join us.

To RSVP or for information, email circleofsistersaz@yahoo.com.

SAT 27 Prof. Gershom Williams will deliver a lecture presentation entitled "Making Black History Sacred: African Spiritual Science Before America." 7:00 until 9 p.m. at Karim's Cobbler Shop and Deli located at 333 East Jefferson St. (just east of US Airways Center). For information call 480-570-7613.

St. John Baptist Church Black & White Ball at The Audubon, 3131 S. Central Ave. in Phoenix.

6:00 to 10 p.m. For details or tickets please contact Sis. Deborah Johnson, 602-304-1905.

Sisterlocks Workshop presented by Melanie's Locs 10 a.m. to noon at First Institutional Baptist Church, 1141 E. Jefferson, Room 203 in Phoenix. Email: sistermelanieloc@cox.net

Email Community Calendar Information to ainewspaper@qwestoffice.net

ARIZONA INFORMANT

EDITORIAL & OPINION

Black History Within Plain View

Stimulus Plan Averted 2nd Great Depression

BY GEORGE E. CURRY NNPA COLUMNIST Although President Obama’s $787 billion economic stimulus plan created or saved enough jobs over the past year to prevent the United States from plunging into the second Great Depression, most Americans grossly underestimate what the package has accomplished.

"One year later, it is largely thanks to the Recovery Act that a second depression is no longer a possibility," Obama said at an event marking the bill’s anniversary. He said the stimulus package has saved or helped create 2 million jobs.

Not surprisingly, Republicans disagree.

“In the year since the Democrats’ stimulus program was enacted, over 3 million jobs have been lost, billions of dollars have been wasted and an unprecedented debt has been passed on to our children…” said House Minority Whip Eric Cantor (R-Va.) So, who’s telling the truth?

An analysis by nonpartisan Congressional Budget Office supports the president, saying the stimulus package helped to end the recession and created or saved at least 2 million jobs. That would put Obama on track to reach his goal of 3.5 million jobs over two years.

But try explaining that to your fellow citizens. According to a New York Times/CBS News poll conducted earlier this month, only 6 percent of those questioned believe the stimulus package has created any jobs.

Why such a large disconnect?

Only about 30 percent of the

funds have been spent so far, with that figure expected to rise to 70 percent before the end of the year.

Another factor is that much of the money has gone directly to the states to preserve jobs that would have otherwise been eliminated or used to extend unemployment and insurance coverage.

According to the White House, 95 percent of American families received a tax cut of approximately $800 for both 2009 and 2010 as a result of the stimulus package. However, because the money was left in the employee’s paycheck in the form of reduced taxes rather than mailed as a separate check, most Americans did not notice the cut. In fact, only 12 percent of those polled by the New York Times/CBS said they had received a tax cut.

Until recent weeks, the White House did a poor job of touting the success of the program, failing to put a face on those directly benefiting from what is formally known as the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act. As the 1year anniversary approached, however, various federal departments and agencies were rushing to paint a different picture.

Obama has not been helped by high unemployment rates. When the bill was signed into law, the unemployment rate stood at 7.7 percent. Since then, it jumped to 10 percent before falling last month to 9.7 percent.

Republicans gleefully circulated earlier administration projections that the unemployment rate was expected to rise no higher than 8 percent as a result of the stimulus plan.

In an effort to be more transparent, the administration posted stimulus-created jobs on a special Web site. However, some of the jobs were posted in Congressional districts and zip codes that do not exist.

Administration officials weren’t the only ones embarrassed.

The Wall Street Journal reported that more than a dozen Republicans in Congress voted against President Obama’s stimulus plan yet wrote to federal agen-

WEDNESDAY, FEBRUARY 24, 2010 3

cies on behalf of businesses in their districts seeking stimulus funds.

Senator Richard Shelby (RAla.) called the stimulus plan “the socialist way.” Yet, he was part of an Alabama delegation contacting the U.S. Forest Service with a $15 million request for a state program that ended up receiving a $6.3 million grant.

Another Republican, Rep. Paul Ryan of Wisconsin, said the stimulus program amounted to “a wasteful spending spree.” Later, he worked to be part of that spending spree, supporting a grant application to the Department of Labor.

There is no doubt that stimulus package improved the American economy.

The American Chronicle rounded up and posted the following quotes on its Web site: "Cut through all the numbers, though, and this is what you find: The American Recovery and Reinvestment Act saved us from plunging into a second Great Depression."

- Stephen Herzenberg, Economist and Executive Director of the Keystone Research Center "We were looking over the precipice, possibly into a Great Depression…I think it was appropriate to enact a very aggressive stimulus bill. I think it is fair to say that, without the stimulus bill, state and local government budgets would be in even worse shape than they are now."

- Robert Dye, senior economist for PNC Financial Services Group A year after it began flowing, the stimulus money still has not reached many small Black businesses. Still, it is far from being the failure that Republicans claim. Given the relative success of the program, perhaps the Obama administration will be stimulated to do more for African-American businesses.

George Curry, can be reached through his Web site, www.georgecurry.com

By Ruth B. Love NNPA Guest Commentary (NNPA) - Black History Month is a specific time in the calendar year designated to pause and pay homage to the vast contributions of AfricanAmericans in and for this country.

It’s when we stop to celebrate the struggles and achievements of Black people, we are reminded of the imperative of teaching and weaving these achievements into the fabric of school curriculum throughout the year.

If the instructional information and program in all schools do not include more than a few smidgens about the contributions that are part of AfricanAmerican history and culture, we are denying all children of valuable information necessary to become educated citizens.

For Black children, we are denying them of their birthright.

Black history has been characterized by many AfricanAmericans as “sacred narrative” because of its evolution, its vitality and significance.

My position is that Black history is within our midst in plain view as Americans, young and old, go about their daily lives.

But who know it when they see it?

A few examples in plain view: the 3-way stop signal, first invented by Garrett Morgan in 1923. As you stop to drop letters into a mailbox, think of P.B. Downing, who invented and patented the street letterbox in 1891. When you buy a pair of shoes, a Black American, Jan Matzeliger, first developed shoe lasts for the right and left foot.

As you watch a golf game, recall that George Grant, a Black American, invented the “golf tee.”

Incredabllly, at a time when many African-Americans were not permitted to read, write or hold a book, an AfricanAmerican invented the “pencil

sharpener (J.L. Love, 1897) and the fountain pen (W.B. Purvis, 17890).

The vast contributions of African-Americans can be found in the field of music, science, technology, art, education, sports, poetry, fashion, literature, etc.

Students may hear about Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr., but do they know about Dr. George Washington Carver, whose discoveries of products made from the yam and peanut are patented and in wide use today; or Carter G. Woodson, whose brilliant idea conceived of Black History Week?

Historically, African-Americans worked disproportionately in homes and in agricultural fields where they invented and devised devices to help in the arduous, hard work.

Inventions such as the ironing board, curtain rod, hair brush, kitchen table, lemon squeezer, ice cream mold, law and water sprinkler, lawn mower, folding bed, window lock, are just a few of the practical outcomes of the creative and inventive minds of AfricanAmericans.

Why study Black history?

African history goes back to 400 B.C. Given the fact that Africa is the ancestral birthplace of African-Americans, education is incomplete without teaching and learning the history and culture of both the Continent of Africa and African Americans in the Diaspora.

The critical question is not “Why study Black history”?

Rather, the question should be “Why not study Black history?”

Dr. Ruth B. Love is former superintendent of schools in Oakland, Calif. and Chicago.

Currently, she is professor of educational ieadership in equity doctorate program, University of California Berkeley and president of RBL Enterprises.

COMMUNITY CALENDAR COMMUNITY CALENDAR COMMUNITY CALENDAR COMMUNITY CALENDAR IHOOPS Skills Challenge. Boys and girls from 9 to 14 years of age are eligible to participant in this free basketball skills event 10:30 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. at Longview Recreation Center, 4040 North 14th Street, Phoenix. Participants may register the day of the event and must bring a copy of their birth certificate with a completed registration/waiver form. The form is online at www.iHoops.com/ skillschallenge. For information: Tony Salinas at 602-534-6570 email tony.slinas@phoenix.gov

SUN 28 Deadline to apply to

the “Access to Capital Academy” a six-month program pro-

viding education to minority, women and small-business entrepreneurs that will develop and strengthen their loan package.

Courses set to begin in March.

For information, cost or to register contact Fatimah Halim at 602495-0375.

- MARCH MON 1 Deadline for entries for awards to student journalists presented by Arizona Press Women. Open to students in grades 9 through 12 for work completed during the school year from March 1, 2009 through Feb. 14, 2010. Information: www.azpw.org

WED 3 Arizona African American Republican Committee meeting 6-8 p.m. at 3501 N. 24th St. (Rep. Hdqtrs.) Phoenix.

Contact Clyde Bowen 602-2745439.

South Mountain Community College Storytelling Institute continues its popular annual “Folktales for Grownups” series with tales of “Noodleheads, Fools and Tricksters,” presented by storytellers Kelly Davis, Kindra Hall, Ricardo Provencio, Marilyn Omifunke Torres, and Liz Warren.

In the SMCC Studio Theatre at 7050 S. 24th Street in Phoenix, just north of Baseline Road.

Admission is free. For information visit www.smcstorytelling.com or call Liz Warren at 602-243-8026.

The Phoenix Chapter of Mocha Moms, Inc., invites moms across the Valley learn about them at Whitton Avenue Bible Church; 2601 E. Whitton Avenue in Phoenix from 10 a.m. to noon.

Children welcome. For information visit www.mochamoms.org.

South Mountain Community College Career Expo from 10 a.m. to noon in the central plaza area of the college, 7050 S. 24th Street in Phoenix. Admission to the general public is free. Vendor

booths are still available for employers. For information contact Suzanne Hipps at 602-2438153, or e-mail suzanne.hipps @smcmail.maricopa.edu.

FRI 5 Deadline for entries to Arizona Young Artists’ Competition for performers between the ages of 16-20 to be held at the Herberger Theater Center on March 27. Performers will compete in the categories of acting, modern dance and voice, March 23-25, for a panel of industry professionals. Information about entry fee with forms and audition information is at www.azyoungartistscompetition.org.

IN BUSINESS Curves Of Phoenix Joins Nationwide Food Drive

4 WEDNESDAY, FEBRUARY 24, 2010

ARIZONA INFORMANT

Story and photo

By Floyd Alvin Galloway Curves of Phoenix at 3220 E. Baseline Road #116 is encouraging women in the area to show their philanthropic strength by participating in the annual Curves Food Drive during March. The food drive has a two-fold benefit. First, it’s rewarding to be charitable and help your neighbors in need. Secondly the South Mountain area health and fitness center is offering compelling incentives for both existing and potential members who participate.

From March 1 to 31, Curves of Phoenix will collect non-perishable items and monetary donations for food banks in the local area. The goal, according to Annette Yates, owner of the fitness center is for the community to come together to help families in need.

“At the core of our business is the message that women are stronger when they really together, and that is the point we hope to bring home with our food drive,” said Yates. “We want to show our community just how powerful the generosity of our members can be.”

According to Yates, members who donate a bag of groceries or make a minimum donation of $30 during the month of March will receive a reusable Curves grocery freezer bag for free. Non-members who donate between March 8 and the 20, Curves will waive the cost to join so

Annette Yates, owner of Curves of Phoenix is participating in Curves food drive to help local food banks.

they are able to join Curves for free.

Curves of Phoenix will be participating in a company-wide contest for the most food drive donations collected by Curves locations across the country. Winners will receive on of several cash prizes to be donated to their local food bank. Curves is the largest fitness franchise in the world with nearly 10,000 locations worldwide. Curves Clubs can be found in more than 70 countries.

Each year, Curves locations collectively donate millions of pounds of food to feed the hungry.

“We hope women in the Phoenix area will come together and participate in this initiative,” added Yates.

“Even if you’re not thinking about joining a gym, you can still drop-off your donations. There are so many

families, right here in our own community who need our help.”

The fitness franchise provides an exercise and weight control program designed specifically for women. It works every major muscle group with a complete 30-minute workout that combines strength training and sustained cardiovascular activity through safe and effective hydraulic resistance.

Whether you’re interested in getting more exercise for health and general condition, or want to lose weight or tone your muscles, Curves can help you establish a regimen to help you meet your goal. For more information about Curves of Phoenix, located at 3220 E. Baseline Road #116, contact Annette Yates at 602 470-4500 or mseay@cavtel.net.

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ARIZONA INFORMANT

IN BUSINESS

Phoenix City Manager Speaks At Black Board Of Directors Project Breakfast Story and photo

By Wardell Holder Marvin Perry, founder of The Black Board of Directors Project (BBODP) opened this morning breakfast session of networking with a hearty welcome to guest speaker Phoenix City Manager David Cavazos, and the sponsor of this event at the downtown Hyatt, Renaud, Cook, Drury, Mesaros, PA Law Offices.

The BBODP was formed in 1984 to fill the void of Blacks on corporate, charitable, public-making boards and commissions. In its 25 years BBODP has placed over 1,800 Blacks and others on various boards and commissions.

Marvin Perry, founder said, “It’s so important for Blacks to have a voice and be involved in decisions making”.

Cavazos was appointed Phoenix city manager on November 6, 2009.

He is the first Hispanic to hold this office. Cavazos came to Arizona in 1987 as a management intern and also was an economic development

Breakfast attendees included (L to R) Mr. and Mrs. Chris Crockett, Phoenix City Manager David Cavazos and Clarence McAllister of Fortis Networks.

manager. Cavazos noted that he is most proud of working his way up through the ranks, and watching and learning from co-workers.

Cavazos said that he likes to focus on results at the end of the day. An advocate for change, Cavazos believes in public safety, transportation, culture and recreation, and small businesses.

He notred that Phoenix has been

named All-American City for an unprecedented fifth time.

Closing remarks were made by attorney Tophas Anderson, IV, and Marvin Perry who thanked David Cavazos for taking the time out from his busy schedule to address the room of 30 entrepreneurs.

For more information on The Black Board of Directors Projects, go to www.bbodproject.com.

Financial Aid Available For Those Who Qualify

WEDNESDAY, FEBRUARY 24, 2010

5

Census To Hire 8,000 Employees In Maricopa County Over the Next Month In less than one month U.S. Census forms will start arriving in mailboxes across Phoenix and Maricopa County. More than 8,000 employees are needed to complete the massive task to assure a complete and accurate count of county residents.

The central Phoenix office alone will hire more than 2,000 census employees in the upcoming weeks. These jobs offer paid training, flexible hours, great pay and an opportunity to participate in this important effort.

Crew leaders, census-takers and clerical positions are available with pay ranging from $11.25 to $16.50 an hour.

“We are excited to offer 2,000 jobs in our central Phoenix office. In this economy, it not only helps those looking for tempo-

rary work, it also involves them in a project that is critical to our community,” said Al Nieto, Phoenix local census office manager. “We look forward to hearing from candidates who want to join our team and are ready to get to work.”

Those interested in employment with the 2010 Census are invited to call 1-866-861-2010 to schedule a local and convenient appointment for employment eligibility.

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WEDNESDAY, FEBRUARY 24, 2010

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Black Woman’s Task Force Of Tucson Honors Three College Students With Scholarships home where her mother was a resident.

“This scholarship means that I can finish what I started at the UA,” she said to the small crowd on hand as she held her $750 check.

Shahayala Byrd’s community service work is also impressive. She’s the founder of the Umoja newsletter, cheer coach at the local Tucson Boys and Girls Club, a recruiter in the UA Office of

Admissions, and a Tucson Urban League dance instructor. Her goal is to work in business. Her scholarship check netted her $750.

Beatrice Abiero won $1,000 and she is a graduate of Barry Goldwater High School and is a prehealth education major.

She’s an active member with the UA African Students Association and authored an informational book on African American

Life Sciences.

“We like people in the community to know that our community is filled with talented young ladies and we hope to see them fill our shoes one day,” stated Annie Sykes, president of BWTF. The BWTF has been a leader in the Tucson community empowering black women for over 30 years.

For more information, visit www.BlackWomens TaskForce.org.

At Lolo's We Celebrate African American History 365/24/7 Thank You and Peace to the Ancestors!

UA students (l to r) Christiana Rigaud, Beatrice Abiero, and Shahayala Byrd accepting their scholarships from BWTF.

Story and photo

By Bobby Burns TUCSON - The Black Women’s Task Force of Tucson have been helping young African American ladies fulfill their dreams of going to college for years. But recently it was their first time holding a special reception for scholarship recipients. A small reception was held at the Tucson Southern Arizona

Black Chamber of Commerce on a rainy afternoon.

Inside family and members of the BWTF celebrated the young accomplishments of Christina Rigaud, Shahayla Byrd, and Beatrice Abiero of Phoenix. All three currently attend the University of Arizona.

All of them show exceptional leadership skills as well as having a strong

sense of community.

Christina Rigaud is a Hurricane Katrina survivor and is finishing her senior year majoring in English.

She is a gifted artist and plays the piano. Her artwork is on display in the New Orleans Louis Armstrong International Airport. Her goal is to write novels and screenplays. She once volunteered at the very nursing

Support Black Business It Builds Your Community

8

WEDNESDAY, FEBRUARY 24, 2010

CELEBRATE BLACK HISTORY

ARIZONA INFORMANT

Making Black History Sacred: African Spirituality Before Slavery

BY PROFESSOR GERSHOM WILLIAMS MESA COMMUNITY COLLEGE

T

he monumental spiritual legacy of African descended people in the Western hemisphere Diaspora predates their forced migration to these alien shores by several millennia.

Before Columbus, before Christ, before Moses, Abraham, and Muhammad, long before the Hebrew bible; the old testament and the Judeo-Christian and Islamic faiths, Africans in the Nile Valley classical civilizations of Nubia and Egypt laid the foundations of early spiritual thought and ideology.

Some of Africa’s early milestone achievements in the spiritual realm

of knowledge have also occurred in the kingdoms and empires of West Africa where the religion of Islam held sway prior to the trans-Atlantic enslavement era. But the ancient records of splendor in the East African Nile River Valley region reaches back before the dawn of recorded history itself, dating back even before the art of writing appears in Egypt and Mesopotamia, circa 5000 years ago.

To the early Greeks, the first Europeans to encounter the Ethiopians of African antiquity, Ethiopia (land of the burnt faces) was the home of a divine people and from Ethiopia came the great Greek God Zeus. Singing his venerable praises to the Ethiopian (Nubian) people, the Greek poet Homer of the ninth century B.C. wrote: “They are the remotest nation, the most just of men; the favorites of the Gods. The lofty inhabitants of Olympus journey to them, and take part in their feasts; their sacrifices are the most agreeable of all that mortals can offer them.”

African American Christians would do well to read and ponder the illuminating words written by C.F. Volney, the French savant who

visited Egypt during the peak period of the slave trade and penned the following regarding the glorious spiritual legacy of Black folks. “There (in Egypt) is a people now forgotten, discovered while others were yet barbarians, the elements of the arts and sciences. A race of men now rejected from society for their Black skin and wooly hair, founded on the study of the laws of nature, those civil and religious systems which still govern the universe.” –Ruins of Empires, 1789. Mr. Volney in another scholarly treatise published in 1787 also states: “…This race of Blacks today our slaves and the objects of our extreme contempt, is the very one to which we owe our arts, our sciences, and even the use of the spoken word.”

A very sad and tragic event occurred when Mr. Volney’s book was translated to the English language and published in America.

The biased and bigoted publishers found it necessary and convenient to omit three entire pages from the text that specifically spoke to the grand spiritual and cultural legacy that Mother Africa has bequeathed to our world.

Continued on Page 17

THU-SUN 25-28 Black History Celebration and Multi-

cultural Music Festival. 2/25 Community Appreciation Night at Skatezone 13550 W. Van Buren, 6-11 p.m., free skating, free food. 2/26 Kick Off Concert at Castles N' Coasters 6-11 p.m., featuring R&B recording artist Fel Davis, special discounted all day ride past. 2/27 and 2/28 Annual Black History Celebration at the Peoria Municipal Complex Amphitheater 83rd Ave between Olive and Grand.

Event include: live music gospel, blues, jazz,R&B vendors, 3on3 basketball, car show, free arcade tent, free parking.

Donation asked, ages 6 and under free. More information: 623-204-0959 or www.aznbhc.org

THU 25 Chandler-Gilbert Community College Open Mic Night will be held from 6 to 8:30 p.m. in the CGCC's Student Center Pavilion. All performers are welcome – comedians, artists, writers, storytellers, steppers, poets, singers, acoustic musicians, and freestyle rap emcees. No profanity- this is an all ages family venue. This event will feature the Hamilton High School Step-Vibe Team. For more information about this event, call 480-732-7322.

CGCC is at 2626 E. Pecos Rd. (between Gilbert and Cooper Roads) in Chandler. For more information, call 480-732-7030.

SAT 27 Prof. Gershom Williams will deliver a lecture presentation entitled "Making Black History Sacred: African Spiritual Science Before America." 7:00 until 9 p.m. at Karim's Cobbler Shop and Deli located at 333 East Jefferson St. (just east of US Airways Center). For information call 480-570-7613.

Cox Cable Digital On-Demand Premiers Black Cinema Category Offers Black History Month On-Demand Specials In celebration of Black History Month, Cox Communications is offering a special category in the On DEMAND menu that profiles the contributions of African Americans in American History, film, music and television.

The special collection of programming is available to Digital Cable [Advanced TV] customers On DEMAND through February 28.

From music, to documentaries, movies, comedies and more – Cox Advanced TV [Digital cable] customers can access this special category of programs by tuning to channel one. From there, choose Movies, then the Black Cinema category for a lineup of hit movies, or choose FreeZone and then Black Experience for programming from some of the most popular networks including E!, BET, Big Ten Network, CNN, Food Network, Fuel TV, HBO, HGTV, History Channel, Investigation Discovery, Lifetime, Logo, MTV, National Geographic Channel, Nick, Showtime, Spike, Starz, Sundance Channel, TCM, Travel Channel and VH1.

In addition, The Black Cinema category is premiering during Black History Month and will remain a category on a monthly basis. The category features some of the most acclaimed, award-winning and influential films created by or featuring the most celebrated black directors, actors and themes. Examples of movies available are: • Spike Lee’s brutally honest “Do the Right Thing,” (1989) and the powerful Malcolm X (1992) • Steven Spielberg’s heart wrenching “The Color Purple” (1985) and historical “Amistad” (1997) • Ed Zwick’s harrowing “Blood Diamond” (2006) • Denzel Washington’s multi-award-winning “Antwone Fisher” (2002) • Taylor Hackford’s musical homage to Ray Charles, “Ray” (2004) • Tyler Perry’s comical “I Can Do Bad All By Myself” (2007) Additional information and programming details can be found at www.cox.com.

SPORTS ARTS&ENTERTAINMENT LIVING 9

Compiled by Ima Denmon

WEDNESDAY, FEBRUARY 24, 2010

The Coalition will fellowship at AMVETS Post 15 on February 6

Soul Train Couple To Hold Hip Hop Dance Auditions In Valley

By Deborah Rene Valley residents Darryl Khalid and Luciana Khalid (formerly Luciana Bell) hold the title “Mr. and Miss Soul Train.” Soul Train, hosted

by Don Cornelius was popular during the 70’s and 80’s for its hot dance routines, music and fashion and continues to run on various stations. Both Darryl and Luciana along with champion dancer Kasiem have combined their years of hip hop, martial arts, fitness training, and choreography of multicultural dance talents to present a well rounded program, garnering national success.

They are currently holding auditions for their junior dance team open to elementary school aged youth and teens on Saturday, February 27 and Sunday, February 28 from 5 to 6 p.m. Khalid’s Hip Hop Center studio location is 5270 N. 59th Avenue (in the Oregon Plaza) in Glendale. Call 623-6945218 for reservation and additional information. Visit www.footklan. com or email footklanone@ yahoo.com.

Those visiting Khalid’s Hip Hop Center will be amazed with the history of martial arts experience which begins with Grandmaster Darryl D. Khalid, 8th Dan, who began his martial arts training in Korea in 1970 under the instruction of Master Chun Sik Kim. Darryl Jr. along with brothers, Umar and

American Legion Post #65 – 602-268-6059 – 1624 E. Broadway – SUNDAY: Karaoke with cash prizes and dancing 8 p.m. until closing. Gino on the Wheels of Steele. TUESDAY join us for Chicago Style Stepping on Broadway from 7 to 10 p.m. Backyard grilling.

WEDNESDAY is pool tournament night hosted by Paulette.

Ms. Phyllis in the kitchen. Line dancing classes (free) 6 to 8 p.m. Also Ole School Wednesday with your hosts Darlene and Jewell giving away prizes with ole school sounds from DJ Mike, 7 p.m. Ms. Phyllis in the kitchen.

THURSDAY is ladies night and games night – cards, dominoes, pool, D J. Gino playing and Phyllis in the kitchen, 8 p.m. Friday and Saturdays are regular D J and party nights. D J - 8 p.m. until. 1 a.m. Kitchen open.

Join us for First Fridays. Games, raffles, music, food available and lots of fun. Join us Super Sunday!

AMVETS Post #15 – 602-268-3331 – 4219 S. 7th Street – Monday and Tuesday. drink specials, open pool. Kitchen open with Michele. TUESDAY is bikers night. WEDNESDAY Karaoke from 8 p.m. until closing. DJ Mo reece Cutler is your host. Kitchen open with Alto.

Cards and pool are played nightly. DJ Moreece on Thirsty Thursdays with drink specials, open mike, poetry, rap, comedy and fun. Friday night, DJ Correct, kitchen open. Saturday night, DJ Micko, kitchen open.

Foot Klan Jr. All Stars from season five. Auditions for the junior dance team are set for Saturday and Sunday, February 27 and 28.

TERESA POMROY PHOTO

Kasiem have followed in their father’s footsteps and applied that discipline and structure to the heart and message of peace with their hip hop delivery. The valley streets of Phoenix are filled with dance competitors who present various messages of hip hop and folks are invited to learn about the peaceful elements in the Khalid studio.

Fitness is a primary focus. As a choreographer, Luciana has over 10 years as a fitness trainer and was Miss Fitness Arizona from 19982000. Both Darryl and Luciana have acted and modeled. Brother Kasiem joins Darryl as a stunt expert and performer. Many of the Valley’s top dancers have listed their experience as a Footklan dancer and continue to

make their marks in the industry.

Khalid’s Hip Hop Center is excited about recent and upcoming shows as the economy has been tough for artists. Recognized as the Krump King, artist Tight Eyez was featured a few weeks ago by Khalid’s Hip Hop Center and brought many different faiths, cultures and ages together for a filmed hip hop session.

Television, movies, commercials, trade shows, college tours, corporate events, holiday affairs, product branding, local and national shows are just a few of the listed items in the group’s portfolio. If you think you have the talent, check them out for yourself.

Local Musicians To Hold Benefit For Rochell “Jr” Whitehead

By Ima Denmon “We take care of our own.” This is the remark given by all of the best musicians in Phoenix when contacted about a benefit for singer/writer Rochell “Jr.” Whitehead who has been ill for a while. The benefit will take place on February 25 at American Legion Post #65, 1624 East Broadway, 602-268-6059 beginning at 7 p.m. A donation is being asked.

Rochell is a native Phoenician who started singing in church at the age of six. He started with a group name Memphis Soul in 1966 before they changed their name to Memphis. Memphis has opened for Buddy Miles, Jethro Tull, Taj Mahal,

FEBRUARY C0ALITION CALENDAR

Rochell “Jr.” Whitehead

Leon Russell, Stevie Wonder and many more.

Rochell later played with his brothers Ronnie and Gary Whitehead as “The Whitehead Brothers.” He then formed his own band “Fire In The Sky” which played at several area casinos. They performed at the Monterrey Blues Festival in 2005 as well as playing a host of local clubs

including American Legion, VFW, Char’s, Chez Nous, Rhythm Room, and many more.

Rochelle and his band have also played numerous benefits, including at St. Joseph hospital every year for their Christmas party.

Jr. has had the honor to play with the best musician in Phoenix, his brothers Ronnie and Gary, Jimmie McElroy, Jessie McGuire, Patti Williams, Bobby Soul, Dr. Fish, Stan Devereaux, Ana Blendu, Lady J, Maxine Johnson, Georgie Charles, George Bowman, “Soul Power” Delmar Stewart, Rodney Brown, Bam Bam, Kenny Brown, Donnie Dean, and many more.

Some of the many musicians that will take turns performing at the

February 25 benefit will include Blues Ratio with Hollywood on Congos, Robert Neely Band, Stan Deveraux, the Loose Cannon Blues Band featuring Luther Jackson, Roscoe Taylor, the Honey Brown Band, the Papa John De Francisco Jazz Group, Big Pete Pearson, George Bowman, Randy Hall, Patti Williams, Nay Nay Hagler, Bobby Paris, Soul Power, Tommy Washington and Jimmy McElroy just to name a few.

The American Legion is proud to host this special function to benefit one of Phoenix’s own. Attendees will not only enjoy good music and socializing as they contribute to a good cause. Food will also be available.

AMVETS Post #65 – 602-257-9016 – 1303 W. Grant – Happy Hour 12 – 6 p.m. Mon-Fri. MONDAYS members night; Drink specials 6 p.m. until close. TUESDAY steak and game night; 7 p.m. until. Red Carpet Wednesdays.

Ole School, R&B. Music by DJ Silk. THURSDAY let your voice be heard in Karaoke from 7 p.m. until closing with DJ Ray $. Drink specials, 7 p.m. until. Friday and Saturday are party and jamming nights with DJ Louie, Louie 8 p.m. to 2 a.m. Join us Super Sunday.

Appetizers, drink specials, 50/50 raffle and free give aways. Come join Knoye and Roseanna cooking your food and pouring what ever you’re drinking.

Elks Lodge #477- 602-254-1772, 1007 S. 7th Avenue – Temporarily closed. Look for our grand reopening.

SPORTSMAN SOCIAL CLUB - 943 W. Watkins Road- 602252-7153 – Birthday parties every Saturday during the month; Back Yard Boogie cookout every Sunday starting at 4 p.m. Ladies night every Thursday with drink specials and the sounds of DJ Mo Reec. Friday, February 27, annual President’s Ball.

VFW Post 1710 - 602-253-6409- 1629 E. Jackson –TUESDAY games night – cards and dominoes. Chicago style stepping lessons from 5:30 to 7:30 p.m.

WEDNESDAY: Pinochle games starting at 1 p.m 30 & Up from 7 p.m. Ladies free, DJ Black; cover for men. Old School Thursday nights 5 to 7 p.m., three of the hottest DJs in town spinning the latest sounds, pool tournament with cash prizes, Old School CDs given away during the night. Fridays, Happy Hour from 5 to 7 p.m. Food available Thursdays and Friday night. D J Silk is also featuring Open Mike Night on Fridays. Come down and enjoy singing, rapping and comedians. Pool tournament, Jazz music with DJ Scorpio, snacks every Sunday.

All organizations invite the public to book birthday, anniversary or other special event at their posts.

AMERICAN LEGION PLANS FEB. 27 COMMUNITY APPRECIATION DAY “We Support Our Troops, Our Veterans and Our Community.” This is the moto of R. H. Hamilton American Legion Post #65, 1624 E. Broadway. As such the Post, Auxiliary and Sons of the American Legion are hosting a community appreciation day on the grounds of the post on February 27 from noon to 4 p.m. Mothers, fathers, grandparents are all invited to bring their children out for an afternoon of free food, games and rides, fun music, Head Start information, craft activity and face painting.

Commander Bridgeman, Commander Prince and President Scott state that this is just a small way of showing the people of the community that we are proud to be a part of the community and appreciate serving them.

10 WEDNESDAY, FEBRUARY 24, 2010

ALL ABOUT FAITH: R&B artist Faith Evans has partnered with E1 Entertainment to star in a reality show chronicling her life. "It's All About Faith" would follow Evans – the widow of hip-hop icon Notorious B.I.G. – as she attempts to revive her career after five years out of the limelight. The show will also depict Evans' attempts at juggling her career with her home life with husband-manager Todd Russaw and their four kids.

"Faith" is currently being shopped to networks. As part of the multiplatform arrangement, E1 Music is also onboard to distribute Evans' upcoming sixth studio album.

GIVING BACK: Students from four high schools gathered at Walt Disney Concert Hall, where Jamie Foxx helped present new violins, flutes, French horns, trumpets and drums valued at $500,000 to students from 16 schools nationwide. The instruments are part of the Fidelity FutureStage program, an effort by the investment firm to enrich arts education in public schools. Founded in 2006, the program provides instruments, specialized training by professional musicians, and a chance for aspiring artists to perform with renowned orchestras such as the Los Angeles Philharmonic and Boston Pops. Foxx told students he began as a classical pianist and eventually won a scholarship to study the instrument in college. "That allowed me to come to L.A. and work on my craft," he said. "Then I went into acting and comedy, and then it was Ray Charles ..."

Foxx, 42, who won an Oscar for his portrayal of Charles in "Ray," got the crowd fired up and had them chanting "music, mu-sic" before students came on stage to accept shiny

ZONEI N-A&E new saxophones, clarinets BEHIND THE SCENES and other instruments. "This is way better than our old stuff," one student said.

Dominic Monaghan hosted the program, which was simulcast in Boston, Houston, Chicago and Los Angeles. Students in all four cities performed and received donated instruments. After the program, Foxx praised Fidelity for BY ANTRACIA MOORINGS stepping in where public funding had failed. He also encouraged other companies to participate. "Even if a kid is not going to be the greatest musician in the world, just the fact that you gave him something, the fact that you said, 'hey, I care about you,' that's what it's about," Foxx said.

BATTLING CANCER: Louis Gossett Jr., best known for his Oscar-winning role as the tough drill instructor in "An Officer and a Gentleman," said on Tuesday he was fighting prostate cancer. Gossett, 73, said his cancer was in its early stages and that he was going public to encourage AfricanAmericans to seek early examinations and treatment for the disease. The award-winning actor said he had begun an intensive treatment program so that he can resume his acting schedule, and work with his Eracism Foundation, as soon as possible. "I count this diagnosis among the many challenges I have faced in my life and overcome. I expect this to be no different," Gossett said in a statement. The actor's Eracism Foundation works to raise awareness of issues such as racism, ignorance and social apathy. He said he wanted to go public "to set an example for the large number of African-American men who are victims of this disease because of the comparatively low emphasis in our community on preventive examinations and early treatment."

ARIZONA INFORMANT

CONCERTS ETC. — FEBRUARY— THU-SUN 25-28 Black History Celebration and Multi-cultural Music Festival. 2/25 Community Appreciation Night at Skatezone 13550 W. Van Buren, 611 p.m., free skating, free food. 2/26 Kick Off Concert at Castles N' Coasters 6-11 p.m., featuring R&B recording artist Fel Davis, special discounted all day ride past. 2/27 and 2/28 Annual Black History Celebration at the Peoria Municipal Complex Amphitheater 83rd Ave between Olive and Grand. Event include: live music gospel, blues, jazz, R&B vendors, 3on3 basketball, car show, free arcade tent, free parking. Donation asked, ages 6 and under free.

More information: 623-204-0959 or www.aznbhc.org FRI-SAT 26-27 South Mountain Community College Jazz Festival. A jazz concert featuring Blaise Lantana and SMCC faculty member and concert pianist Henry Rose is scheduled for Friday at 7 p.m. in SMCC’s Performance Hall, 7050 S. 24th Street in Phoenix. Tickets can be purchased at www.showup.com. On Saturday jazz enthusiasts of all ages and abilities are invited to attend free clinics from 10 a.m. to noon, followed by a free concert in the Performance Hall that evening at 7:30 p.m. For additional information about the festival call the SMCC Performing Arts Hotline at 602-243-8353.

— MARCH— FRI 26 The Arizona Black Film Showcase is set to take

place in Tempe. This premier event is dedicated to celebrating and promoting the dynamic works of AfricanAmerican filmmakers and filmmakers whose works embrace the Black cultural experience on a national and international level. For more information, please visit azblackfilm.com or email films@azblackfilm.com or media@azblackfilm.com Through March 28

ZONEIN-LIVING

ARIZONA INFORMANT

WEDNESDAY, FEBRUARY 24, 2010 11

Eunice Scott Celebrates 100 With Family, Friends, Recognitions, Roses And A Century Of Life’s Experience 71 great, great grandchildren. There is a span of five generations.

Momo, as she is known as, is an avid fan of the Phoenix Suns and now sits in front of the T.V. and yells out the Suns score.

Many of her childhood memories revolve around church activities, especially singing.

When asked, "How are you doing?" She replies, "Kicking, but not high.

Flapping, but I can't fly."

Her recipe for reaching

On January 30, an open house was held for Eunice Scott in celebration of her 100th birthday. Over 250 family and friends stopped by to wish her a happy birthday at her home in PebbleCreek, an adult resort community in Goodyear. There were light refreshments, music, fun memories, and sharing in a family's history that has now spanned 100 years.

Included in the activities were mime dancing, a choir singing and a presentation of 100 roses for 100

years, special words from family and friends and special recognitions from President Barack Obama and Michelle, Governor Janet Brewer, Senator John McCain and a special appearance by Mayor Jackie Meck of Buckeye who proclaiming February 1, 2010 Eunice D. Scott Day in the Town of Buckeye.

Eunice was born February 1, 1910 in Weeches, Texas, the second of eight children to Willis and Margaret Land. She is the only survivor. Her grand-

parents were born into slavery.

Eunice completed high school and one semester at an all girls’ school of higher learning. Moving to Arizona in 1951, she settled in Buckeye in 1955.

She moved to Pebblecreek in 2005 with her daughter, Anola Hubbert.

Scott’s husband, Ben, died in 1952 leaving her with seven children, two girls and five boys. Two of her boys were pastors and are now deceased. Eunice has 41 grandchildren, 116 great grandchildren and

a century is attending church, having faith in God and paying the preacher (tithing).

She has seen and experienced many things in her life. To her delight, she never dreamed or imagined in her lifetime that she would experience the historical event of the first African American elected as president of the United States.

She has lived through 18 presidents beginning with President Taft who

Eunice Scott listens as Buckeye Mayor Jackie Meck proclaims February 1, 2010 Eunice D. Scott Day. Recognitions were also received from President and Michelle Obama, Senator McCain and Governor Brewer.

was elected in 1909.

She was around when the world's first successful heart operation was performed by a black man, Daniel Hale Williams and the first black woman, Madame C.J. Walker, became a millionaire.

She has seen and experienced many significant occurrences in her life; women and Blacks right to vote, the Civil Rights Movement, Negro History Week now Black History Month, Jessie Owens the first athlete to win four gold medals in one Olympiad, Rosa Parks refusing to give up her seat on the bus, the legacy and death of Martin Luther King, Jr., and the rare opportunity of seeing Martin Luther King, Jr. at A.S.U. and so much more in the past 100 years of history.

Momo has lived through the best of times, the worst of times more than once, and what a life it has been and continues to be.

Story and photos courtesy Anola Hubbert

Thelma Pattillo C e l e b r a t e s 8 0

By Floyd Alvin Galloway Thelma Pattillo celebrated her 80th birthday this month in Gilbert.

Family and friends in Arizona and California came to to help her celebrate and wish her well.

Born Feb 6, 1930 in Lubbock Texas, she moved to Los Angeles in 1955 and raised five children with her late husband Ulric.

Now living in the Grand Canyon State since 2007 with her daughter Carol, Pattillo and Ulrich used to dance up a storm according to son Ulric Jr. So it was only fitting that family put on a regular ole western hoedown theme party. Complete with cowboy hats, some of Pattillo’s favorite country western songs, some great food and of course a

demonstration by a local square dance group that got everybody out on the floor dosadoing, allemande left and everything else.

Pattillo’s children, Ulric Jr., Reynold, Carol, Darrell and Patrick, their spouses and the seven grandchildren, Ulric III, Aaron, Jennifer, Jordan, Taylor, Eric and Garrett, wished her well.

A slide show took everybody down memory lane and a heart-felt poem by her grandson Jordan were some of the touching moments of the celebration.

A retired educator, Pattillo loved her work, her children, grandchildren and friends. All this was evident by the love they put in celebrating her birthday.

Thelma Pattillo talks with members of the square dancing group that entertained and gave lessons. GALLOWAY/AZI PHOTOS

Family and friends from California and Arizona gather for Nana’s (seated center with red hat) 80th birthday.

12 WEDNESDAY, FEBRUARY 24, 2010

ZONEI N-FOOD

ARIZONA INFORMANT

FAMILY FEATURES

I

t’s not as hard as you might think to make heart healthy food choices that are still irresistibly good.

Dr. Richard Collins, The Cooking Cardiologist and director of wellness at South Denver Cardiology Associates, says that supporting one’s heart may be as simple as learning which foods promote heart health and how to incorporate them into regular meals.

“A lot of people think being heart healthy requires a whole lifestyle overhaul, which may be a key deterrent, particularly for adults who are set in their ways,” Collins said. “There are many easy steps you can take to help support heart health — from substituting ingredients in recipes to choosing the right beverages and making the most of the activities you already enjoy. Many heart healthy steps can be relatively quick and easy to incorporate and don’t have to break your budget.”

For example, 100 percent orange juice is a refrigerator staple that may help support heart health. It can even go beyond the breakfast table — one cup added to your favorite salad dressing, smoothie or marinade is an easy and delicious way to incorporate the beverage’s nutrients into your meals.

“The orange juice that starts many Americans’ mornings provides nutrients such as potassium, which may help maintain healthy blood pressure and promote heart health,” Collins said.

The Cooking Cardiologist has easy ways to make deliciously good-for-you choices: Use nut oils such as sesame seed, walnut or almond in your salad dressing to enhance flavor and add heart healthy ingredients to a salad.

When reading nutrition labels, look for foods that are rich in vitamin C. Vitamin C can support hearth health by helping to neutralize free radicals that may contribute to cell and tissue damage — damage that may contribute to the development of chronic health issues like heart disease and cancer. Many fruits and vegetables and their juices, such as 100 percent orange juice, are excellent sources of vitamin C. Not all fats are bad. While you should avoid saturated fats and trans fats, omega-3 fats may help reduce the risk of heart disease and stroke.

Omega-3 fats are found in foods such as walnuts, flaxseed and fatty fish, such as salmon or tuna.

Try these savory recipes for Orange Tarragon Ginger Shrimp with Rice Noodles and Orange-Apricot Chicken Tagine — two easy ways to serve up heart healthy meals that you’re sure to enjoy.

Visit www.FloridaJuice.com for more heart healthy recipes and information on heart health.

Orange-Apricot Chicken Tagine

Orange Tarragon Ginger Shrimp with Rice Noodles

Orange-Apricot Chicken Tagine

Makes 4 servings 1 cup 100% Florida orange juice 12 jumbo raw shrimp, peeled, deveined, tails attached 2 tablespoons fresh tarragon, finely chopped 1 tablespoon olive oil 1 tablespoon fresh ginger, finely chopped 1 shallot, finely chopped 1 (8-ounce) package rice noodles, prepared according to package directions 1 tablespoon sesame seed oil Nonstick cooking spray 2 cups fresh snow peas 1 tablespoon toasted sesame seeds 1 tablespoon Asian hot chili sauce, optional Combine orange juice, shrimp, tarragon, olive oil, ginger and shallot in a zipperseal plastic bag. Seal bag securely; toss gently to combine ingredients. Marinate for 1 hour in the refrigerator.

Prepare rice noodles according to package directions. Drain and combine with sesame seed oil; toss to coat evenly; reserve.

Spray wok with nonstick cooking spray and heat over medium heat.

Drain shrimp mixture; reserve 1/2 cup marinade and discard remaining marinade. Add shrimp and reserved 1/2 cup of marinade to wok; bring to a boil and stir fry shrimp for 1 to 2 minutes.

Add snow peas; stir fry for 3 more minutes, just until snow peas are tender crisp and shrimp is cooked through. Add sesame seeds and chili sauce, if desired.

Remove from heat and add reserved rice noodles; toss to combine and serve immediately.

A tagine is a cooking pot commonly used in North African countries, such as Morocco and Algeria. It consists of two pieces — a plate-like bottom and a conical-shaped lid. Tagines can be purchased online or in most stores where kitchenware is sold.

Makes 4 servings 1 tablespoon canola oil 4 small skinless chicken breasts, approximately 4 ounces each 1 yellow onion, sliced 1 tablespoon minced fresh garlic 1 tablespoon minced fresh ginger 1 cup 100% Florida orange juice 1 tablespoon turmeric 1 teaspoon ground nutmeg 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon 1 saffron thread, optional 1 (15-ounce) can garbanzo beans, drained 1 cup dried apricots 1 cup diced fresh tomatoes 1/2 cup cashews, chopped and toasted 2 tablespoons fresh cilantro, chopped Heat oil in tagine and brown chicken breasts for 3 to 5 minutes; remove chicken breasts and reserve. Add onion, garlic and ginger to tagine; sauté for 3 minutes. Add orange juice, turmeric, nutmeg, cinnamon and saffron, if desired.

Simmer for 3 minutes; do not boil. Add garbanzo beans, apricots and tomatoes.

Bring to simmer; add reserved chicken breasts. Cover tagine and cook for 20 to 30 minutes over low heat until chicken is thoroughly cooked. Garnish with cashews and cilantro; serve immediately.

Serving suggestion: Serve OrangeApricot Chicken Tagine with cooked couscous.

Orange Tarragon Ginger Shrimp with Rice Noodles

ARIZONA INFORMANT

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WEDNESDAY, FEBRUARY 24, 2010 13

14 WEDNESDAY, FEBRUARY 24, 2010

IN OUR COMMUNITY

ARIZONA INFORMANT

WEDNESDAY, FEBRUARY 24, 2010 15 ZONE I N - S P O R T S TIGER’S OUT OF THE WOODS, Gash Colts In LET’S MOVE ON

ARIZONA INFORMANT

TUCSON 68 - BUENA 50

Badgers 5A South Region Tournament Final Shakir Smith and Sama Taku combine for 50 points To Spark Rout

By Jessie Vanderson TUCSON - Tucson High School's thunder and lightning scoring duo of Shakir Smith and Sama Taku could not be stopped.

Smith, a cat-quick junior point-guard, and Taku, a scoring-machine senior forward, combined for 50 points while leading Tucson High to a 68-50 defeat of Sierra Vista Buena in the Class 5A South Region Tournament boys championship game Friday afternoon at Salpointe Catholic High School's Lancers Gym. Smith, who was honored during post-game ceremonies as the 5A South Region's Player of the Year, torched the nets for six 3-point shots while scoring 22 points.

Taku, a valid Class 5A all-state candidate who may be under the radar outside of the Tucson area, dropped a game-high 28 as the Badgers defeated the Colts for the first-time this season in three games.

"We knew that we had it in us. We knew that we did not play well against them those other two times," said Tucson High coach Gary Lewis, who was selected the region's

ABOVE:Tucson High coach Gary Lewis was selected the boys' Coach of the Year for the Class

5A South Region. TOP RIGHT: Tucson High's junior point guard Shakir Smith connected on six 3-point shots against Sierra Vista Buena. AT RIGHT:Tucson High's senior forward J VANDERSON/AZI PHOTOS Sama Taku pumped in a game-high 28 points against Buena.

Coach of the Year. "We knew a win was bound to happen."

Tucson High, the No. 2 seed, took control of the game early, using 10 points from Taku and three 3-point shoots from Smith to grab a 23-13 lead after one quarter.

"We lost to them the first two-times. I could not let them sweep us, so I had to do something to chance the game around," said Smith, who this fall could become the first quarterback at Tucson High to be considered for all-state recognition in more than

25 years.

The Badgers kept the scoring pressure on the Colts, the No. 5 seed, in the second quarter-draining six 3-point shots while finishing the period leading 44-26. Smith scored nine in the quarter while Taku contributed seven.

"They (Smith and Taku) are a tough combination, and when they are playing well-and we add a couple of more people to the mix- we are pretty much unstoppable," said Lewis, a star guard at Tucson Sahuaro back in the 1980s who later played

at Texas A&M. Tucson High took a 54-28 at one-point in the third quarter before finishing the period leading 5837. Taku scored nine in the quarter.

"I can score inside and outside," said Taku, whose family hails from the West African nation of Cameroon. "Shakir can light it up, and go by his man any time."

Forward Devonte Malcolm and guard Kyani Dillard score 13 and 12 points-respectively, to led Buena's offensive effort in the game.

SANTA RITA 81 - AMPHI 72

Eagles Upend Amphi In Regional Final, Snap Panthers’ 26-Game Winning Streak

By Jessie Vanderson TUCSON - Santa Rita continues to administer revenge on its home court.

For the second time in less than a month the boys basketball team at the East Side high school has knocked off a Gila Region opponent that had beaten them earlier this season in region action.

This time the team was the biggest fish in the Class 4A Division II ranks-No.1 ranked Amphi High (26-2, 13-1). Santa Rita (21-5) used a big fourth-quarter surge to upset Amphi High 81-72 in a thrilling 4AII Gila Region contest Friday night at Eagles Gym that snapped the Panthers' 26-game winning streak, and denied them an unbeaten Gila

Santa Rita head coach Jim Ferguson.

"They get after you defensively as tough as any team the I have seen, but I think we did a good job of keeping out composure."

Santa Rita's sharper play at both ends of the court in the fourth-quarter turned the tide in its favor in what was a sensational match up that pitted the Panthers against an Eagles' squad that they had defeated by 12 points last month at Amphi High. The Eagles, who opened the J VANDERSON/AZI PHOTO quarter tied with the Panthers at 56, Santa Rita's senior forward Elija outscored the visitors 25-16 in the Hawkins registered a game-changing final eight minutes to cap their dunk against Amphi High. region campaign with a 12-2 mark.

"We knew they were going to Region championship.

"Everyone has been talking about come out and play us hard," said Amphi being the best team in the Ferguson. continued on page 23 state. They are darn good," said

Sorry Duffer, I know you SPORTS EDITOR DIGEST are the golf pro and probably will have your own take on Friday’s Tiger Woods press conference, but I have to chime in as well.

Did you catch Tiger on television?

“I recognize I have brought this on myself, and I know above all, I am the one who needs to change.”

“I need to regain my balBY VINCENT CRAWFORD ance, so I can save the things that are most important to me – my marriage and my children.”

“I ask you to find it in your heart to believe in me again.”

I don’t know what more he could have said. Tiger seemed to be speaking from the heart. He should have done it weeks ago, but that’s beside the point.

He offered a stark self-portrait. He made no excuses for his behavior. Zero. He apologized profusely to his wife, said he was working to save his marriage.

If this was a first step, it was a good one. He accepted all the blame for his behavior, admitted there’s still work to do and simply didn’t know when he would play golf again.

Somewhere along the way, he may have gotten closer to reality than he has been in a long time. He spoke of being raised a Buddhist and how his life had gotten so far away from its teaching.

“I convinced myself normal rules didn’t apply. I thought only about myself. ... I felt I was entitled.”

He spoke of the trust that had been broken with his fans, with the parents who believed he was a role model. He seemed to understand he’d done damage that could never be repaired.

“Parents used to point to me as a role model for their kids. I owe all those people a special apology.”

Other public people have offered apologies for their actions, but this one was different. He’s the most famous athlete on earth. If you wanted dates, times and places, you didn’t get them. That’s where he drew the line.

He’s a good reminder to be careful about building up people to be more than they are. His skill was hitting a golf ball. If we made him out to be more than that, some of that blame is on us.

If you gave Tiger credit for being anything more than a great golfer, you might be the one that needs help. He played golf, people. He didn’t slow global warming nor was he an elected official.

Picking role models is always tricky because everyone have skeletons in the closet. As for your parents, the Temptations sung about “Papa was a Rolling Stone”.

Mama, too.

Tiger’s mistake was freakishly controlling his image and allowing people to believe he was something he never was.

We bought into Tiger because we liked what we saw.

I have met him at the ESPY Awards and never found him warm, but I did find him amazing in his commitment to being great. He entered a group of mostly white, mostly wealthy, mostly boring people and suddenly made it interesting. He came to define his sport as no one ever.

Tiger did nothing to answer the real questions on Friday.

Those are between him and his family. In the end, those are the only people he owes anything to.

“It’s up to me to start living a life of integrity.”

Sex sells. If Tiger were announcing he was giving millions to open a school, would that be broadcast live?

Hardly.

I think Tiger should have taken a few questions and answered them with grace.

Are you familiar with the word nunya?

Personally, I felt Tiger didn’t have to do anything. It’s not like he is suspended from the PGA Tour and needs the commissioner to reinstate him. I think this stems from jealousy that a minority athlete is dominating a historically white man’s sport. I can’t think of any other athlete that has been vilified for adultery as much as Tiger.

Once again, “Nunya business.”

16 WEDNESDAY, FEBRUARY 24, 2010

ZONE I N - S P O R T S TUCSON 62 - RINCON/UNIVERSITY 43

The Whole World’s Watching Tiger Woods stood before the world on Friday morning and delivered a speech in hopes of regaining his foothold in the world of golf. He finally stepped forward in a public setting, although a limited audience, and owned up to his transgressions. He covered all of his bases by apologizing profusely to family, friends, fans, business partners and anybody else within earshot of a radio or television set.

“I am the only person to blame”, said Woods as he stared into the cameras transmitting his image world wide. People stopped in downtown New York City to watch and listen to him being broadcast from Times Square. Times Square!

Can you believe one individual could have such an impact?

I only wish it was for curing cancer or passing a health bill or turning around the economy and promoting world peace.

Tiger Woods proved one thing, he is and has always been human and humans have faults and make mistakes. His job now is to stay focused on doing the right things for his family first and everything else will take its proper place.

I love to watch Tiger play the game and make it look so easy. Golf is not any easy sport. The average golfer can’t break 100 but Woods did it when he was five. He makes timely putts and wins countless events even when things are going badly. Currently he is in a bad situation and for the sake of his family I pray that DEAN’S DUFFERS he can regain their trust and eventually get back to what he does best, teeing it up.

Enough said.

Other Teebits: The WGC-Match Play event concluded Sunday afternoon in Marana after Ian Poulter whipped fellow Englishman Paul Casey 4&2 for his first win in the states. Casey may have

BY MICHAEL A. DEAN been suffering from a golf hangover due to a long Saturday that saw him win one match 5&4 and needed an extra day to finish the second. He knocked off Camilo Villegas on the 24th hole played early Sunday morning. In the consolation match, Villegas easily disposed of Sergio Garcia 5&4 and took third place in the 64-man event.

And finally, the PGA Tour comes to the valley this week for the Waste Management Phoenix Open at TPC Scottsdale and thousands and thousands of spectators will flock to the event. It’s great for the economy but it’s also sad. As a Black man and an avid golfer, I would like to visit TPC and see someone playing who looks like me. That won’t happen this week, or anytime in the very near future because they can’t qualify. All I can continue to do is keep the dream alive by supporting organizations like the Bill Dickey Scholarship Association that provides minority golfers with opportunities to play the game and get an education.

UNTIL NEXT TIME... KEEP ON STROKIN’

ARIZONA INFORMANT

Badgers Run Past Rangers In 5A South Tournament Title Game Defending Champs Use 17-0 Run To Repeat

By Jessie Vanderson TUCSON - Tucson High just had too much firepower when it counted the most.

The Badgers of head coach Pat Reed overcame a 30-27 Rincon/University lead late in the second quarter by scoring the final six points to finish the period leading 33-30 in the championship game of Class 5A South Region girls basketball tournament Friday night at Salpointe Catholic High School's Lancer Gym. Tucson High, the No. 1 seed, then smothered the Rangers' upset bid by starting the third quarter with an 11-0 run to take a 44-30 advantage into the closing minutes of the period. That explosion of points proved to be the knockout punch for the Badgers (23-3) against the upstart Rangers (21-9) as they went on to turn back Rincon/University, the No. 3 seed, 62-43 to win the 5A South Region tournament for the second straight year.

"Rincon is a good team and they gave us their best shot," said Reed, who had guided the Badgers to the 5A South tournament title game for the last three

ABOVE:Tucson

High head coach Paul Reed (R) has produced his first major collegiate recruit in senior center Christine Clark (L). She will play for Harvard University.

TOP RIGHT: Junior guard Lexi Mort led Rincon/University in the Class 5A South Title game with 13 points.

AT RIGHT: Tucson High senior forward Nalani Barnes J VANDERSON/AZI PHOTOS scored eight points against Rincon.

years."

Tucson High led 16-10 after the end of the first quarter, and increased that advantage to 23-14 early in the second quarter, but the Rangers, who upset No. 2 seeded Sierra Vista Buena 56-46 in a semifinals game Thursday night, then got their offense rolling and outscored the Badgers 20-11 in the following minutes to hustle to a 30-27 lead.

"We have been working on a lot of stuff in practice-boxing out and diving for that extra loose balls and things," said Ranger Lexi Mort, a junior guard who led Rincon/ University in scoring in the game with 13 points.

"We did that against

Buena in the last game, and that's how we came back, and we did it in the first half of this game."

Tucson High had plenty of defense in the second half. They put the Rangers away by outscoring them 18-6 in the third quarter, and 11-7 in the fourth quarter to defeat them for the third time this season.

"I thought that we played well. We executed what we needed when we needed to," said Tucson High's Nalani Barnes, a senior forward who scored eight points.

Senior center/forward Christine Clark, who was selected the region's Players of the Year for the third straight season, led a potent Tucson High offen-

sive attack with 18 points.

"Christine is averaging 18 points a game. She has a motor and she plays hard," said Reed. "She does things that you cannot teach. She has an uncanny way of always being around the ball."

The Badgers also received 12 points from forward Tracy Valdez, 11 from junior forward Sharna Singleton and eight from junior guard Marissa Salazar.

Notable: Christine Clark, who has accepted a basketball scholarship to play at Harvard University next year, is also the defending Class 5A-I girls state champ in the 300-meter hurdles. The track season starts next week.

HBCU SCOREBOARD

SPECIAL TO THE INFORMANT FROM INFORMATION ARIZONA

Major U.S. media types dubbed last week “bracket buster” week as these so called experts tried to predict which division I college basketball program(s) will make the NCAA tournament next month. The networks focused on the plights of the second tier teams in the “power” conferences and some of the mid-majors that may have to win a conference championship to make the field of sixty-five. Unfortunately none of the division I HBCUs were discussed as potential party crashers at the big dance. This may be good news for the Morgan State Bears (20-8) who have been flying under the radar of the college basketball pontiffs. The Bears have a three game lead in the MEAC and will clinch the regular season title barring a monumental collapse next week. If Morgan can win the MEAC tournament next month they will receive the conference's automatic bid, but more importantly a 25-8 record should at least merit the team a 12th or 13th seed in the tournament. Morgans has defeated some out of conference competition this season.

The Jackson State Tigers (SWAC) are 13-1 in conference play but after a horrendous out of conference schedule has only mustered a 15-11 over all mark. Providing the Tigers can beat out second place Arkansas-Pine bluff (11-3) in the SWAC tournament and win the conference's automatic bid the best they can hope for is the traditional “pigtail” game between the 64th and 65th teams selected for the tournament. The winner of that game have the dubious tasks of playing the number one team in the nation. No #1 seed has ever lost in the first round.

Clark-Atlanta (21-4) went wire to wire claiming the SIAC regular season championship. Unlike division I there is the possibility that a team that doesn't win that season ending tournament could be invited to the NCAA tournament. The SIAC is very strong this season with 8 out of their 13 teams having double digit winning seasons. It won't be a cake walk for CAU as Tuskegee (16-9) Claflin (15-9)Benedict (15-8) and Lane (12-9) all have the potential of stealing the crown next week in Atlanta.

The 65th Annual CIAA basketball tournament will start this week in Charlotte, NC. A coin flip had to be preformed to determine which team would receive the all important first round bye. Few teams have been lucky enough to string together four victories to claim this prestigious title. St. Augustine College (23-4) received the number 1 seed and a bye followed by Bowie State (16-9), and Virginia Union (19-8). St Augustine won the western division out right while a coin flip determined who won the eastern division crown. Both Bowie and Virginia Union had identical 6-2 division and 14-6 conference marks. They split the two games between themselves. Bowie won the coin flip and can avoid St Augustine until the finals The conference tournament will take a new format this season as both the men and women will play on the same days. Billed as the largest black event in the country, the CIAA expects over 20,000 fans for each of its five day run in the Queen City and the Arizona Informant will be there from the tip off. The quarter finals will be televised lived on TV One with the championship game being broadcast on ESPN U this Saturday

ALWAYS PLAY HARD AND STUDY HARDER.

WEDNESDAY, FEBRUARY 24, 2010 17 CELEBRATE BACK HISTORY Arizona Buffalo Soldiers Bringing Black History Throughout The State

ARIZONA INFORMANT

By Ima Denmon The Buffalo Soldiers MC Club of America and Arizona Chapter continue with presentations of the buffalo soldier legacy and Black History Month. On February13 they presented Black history at Camp Verde, Arizona with the Tenth Cavalry Horse Soldiers.

On February 17, they continued their education efforts about Black history at Rev. Dr. Bernard Black School 6550 South 27th Ave. Phoenix. The invitation was from the school's music director Dr Karl Huff; who is also one of the Buffalo Soldiers of America.

The Soldiers addressed over three hundred stu-

and March. Presentations include February 25 at Arizona Dept of Health Services, in Phoenix; February 26 at VA Health Hospital Care System; March 3 Blacks in Government presentation at Mesa Community College; March 6 at the Chandler Ostrich Parade.

The group was judged Best Civic Entry last year in the Chandler parade.

For information contact Chaz Jackson at 602-7509665 or www.buffalosoldiersaz.com.

ABOVE AND RIGHT: The Buffalo Soldiers Motorcycle Club of Arizona joined the Tenth Calvary C-Troop of Arizona at a Black History Month program and encampment in Camp Verde at Fort Verde Historic Park.

Buffalo Soldier President Chaz Jackson greets Eyerusalem, who was born in Somalia, South Africa. Eyerusalem was especially happy to learn about the part the buffalo soldiers played in American history.

IMA DENMON/AZI PHOTO

dents in the gymnasium.

The students were very enthused about Black history and the legacy of the buffalo soldiers and felt honored that the soldiers would take their time to bring this valuable information.

President Chaz Jackson was introduced to 7th

African Spirituality Before Slavery Continued on Page 17 Thus as Dr. Carter G. Woodson warned us in 1933, the mis-education of Negroes and Whites tragically continues to haunt us.

Three centuries of brutal trafficking involving the capture and enslaving of untold millions of African souls unleashed an era of horrific violence and instability in the African interior and many stable and cooperative societies fell into long periods of decline, economic ruin and depression from which some are still suffering today.

Luckily, the contemporary student of history and religion has been left a noteworthy account written by the 14th century Muslim theologian and world traveler, Ibn Battuta, who visited the West African empire of Mali shortly before the great enslavement got underway. He writes, “Of all peoples, the Negro’s are those who most abhor injustice. The Sultan pardons no one who is guilty of it.

There is complete and general safety throughout the land. The traveler here has no more reason than the man who stays at home to fear brigands, thieves or ravishers.”

Ibn Battuta had visited more than 40 countries in 29 years of travel where he crisscrossed two continents.

However, he reserved the latter commentary for the Blacks he observed in the Mali Empire whom he stated

were unsurpassed in their civility of which deeply impressed the medieval globetrotter. In producing the distorted and fabricated historical accounts written and propagated by racist scholarship over several centuries, I wonder how many have ever read the account left to us by Ibn Battuta.Indeed, the negative myths and stereotypes regarding Africans and their history still permeate the psyches of too many Christian and non Christian Blacks.

How many Blacks who embrace and practice Christianity or Islam know that the oldest sacred spiritual text in the world is titled “The Teachings of Ptahhotep?” It is the oldest complete book in the world as we know it. It was first published during the Fifth Dynasty of Ancient Egypt. This dynastic period follows the glorious Fourth Dynasty era in which the Great Pyramids of Giza were constructed. The teachings of the Egyptian priest/scribe Kagame, are even older than the books of Ptahhotep but its contents are mostly lost or were destroyed. Otherwise, Kagame’s teachings would comprise the oldest complete holy/sacred text.

In the early twentieth century, America’s pioneering Egyptologist James Henry Breasted was bold and honest enough to publicly admit the Egyptian/African origins of Judeo/Christian spiritual teachings when he wrote “The ripe

grader Eyerusalem, who was born in Somalia, Africa. She has two brothers at the school and they all speak fluent English and three other languages.

They are very proud to be Americans.

The Buffalo Soldiers Club calendar is quite full for the rest of February

social and moral development of mankind in the Nile Valley which is three thousand years older than that of the Hebrews, contributed essentially to the formation of the Hebrew literature which we call the Old Testament. Our moral heritage therefore derives from a wider human past enormously older than the Hebrews and has come to us through the Hebrews rather than from them.”

According to the late great Black historian J.A. Rogers in his small but powerful booklet ‘100 Amazing Facts About the Negro: With Complete Proof, Nubians, Ethiopians, Egyptians or Black Africans in Antiquity, gave the world it’s first idea of right and wrong and thus laid the foundational basis of all religion, spiritual culture and spiritual civilization. Furthermore, the Bible really originated in Ancient Egypt where according to Herodotus and Aristotle, the early population was Black and Africoid. All or nearly all the ancient Gods depicted in wood and stone imagery of the old and new world were Black and had wooly hair. The earliest statues of the Virgin Mary and the Christ child (The Black Madonnas) in Europe as far north as Russia, were Black and Negroid. In the Bible, the supreme creator God, the Ancient of Days, is described as having “hair like pure lambs wool.”

Moving toward our conclusion, I would like to mention the work of one more credible scholar of non-African descent who

also recorded the nobility of African spiritual consciousness in his massive two volume work Anacalypsis; An inquiry into the origins of Languages, Nations and Religions published in 1836. In his opening remarks, Higgins declares “”I shall in the course of this work, produce a number of extraordinary facts, which will be quite sufficient to prove that a Black race in very early times, had more influence over the affairs of the world than has been lately suspected. I think I shall show by some very striking circumstances yet existing, that the effects of this influence have not entirely passed away.”

In the covers of these remarkable books published during antebellum period, Higgins includes chapters on the Black Madonnas of Europe, the Black Christ, Black Gods and Messiahs, Black Egypt, Crucified Saviors, the Black Buddhas of India and the Black Jews of India. Two noted Black historians who have quoted extensively from Anacalypsis in their writings are, Joel A. Rogers and John G. Jackson. A copy of the text has been housed in the reading room of the British Museum since 1856.

Most Black folks in North America, South America and the Caribbean Islands have been Christianized either by force during the Chattel enslavement experience or by voluntary submission since emancipation in the nineteenth century. One must at least suspect that this Christianization process also involved their systematic deAfricanization or de-culturaliza-

tion (loss of languages, names, cultural memory and cultural heritage). Too many Blacks in the Diaspora have internalized negative feelings of their own inferiority. Some scholars have defined this as internalized racism and this reality has also resulted in the crisis of Black identity and the praxis of self hatred.

In order for African descendants in America and elsewhere to move from mental slavery to mental mastery and true selfconsciousness, they must read, study and know their African and African American history. In order for Blacks to make our history sacred, there must be a rebirth or renaissance of historical awareness of the spiritual legacy and spiritual achievements that our ancestors contributed to humanity. To all my born again Christian sisters and brothers, wouldn’t it also be spiritually progressive and empowering to become a born again African equipped with knowledge of the grand spiritual legacy of our African fore parents?

February has been Black History month since 1976. If we as a people are ever going to make our history sacred and deify our own ancestral culture, this month would be a great time to get started on the journey to rediscover and restore the African spiritual legacy to the missing pages of world history.

Gershom Williams teaches history at Mesa Commuity College. For a list of further readings on this topic email Africanman49@yahoo.com

18 WEDNESDAY, FEBRUARY 24, 2010

IN RELIGION

Gauff ’s Gospel Invasion Broadcast To Begin Airing Every Sunday

By Florence Darby Religion Editor Longtime residents of the Valley will remember turning their radio dials and television remotes to enjoy the Sunday evening gospel music of Allen Gauff, Jr. They also remember the void when he was no longer heard across the airwaves of the Valley or at personal appearances during gospel concerts.

As of this date, we are pleased to report that the sound of Allen Gauff, Jr.'s good gospel music can be heard again on KXXT Radio 1010 AM on Sunday afternoons from 2:00 to 3:00 p.m. and Sunday nights from 8:00 to 9:00 p.m. Mr. Gauff's latest CD is entitled Win 2010.

On Sunday, February 21, Arizona Gospel

Invasion Television Broadcast with Allen Gauff, Jr. was aired at 6:00 a.m. on Cox Cable Channel 7 in Phoenix and Tucson. Beginning on Sunday, February 28, Gospel Invasion Broadcast will air every Sunday night at 10:30 p.m. on Cox. For more information regarding CDs and appearances e-mail: bessie @bessieholmes.com

The legacy she leaves her family and friends was her huge heart and her capacity to love unconditionally. She was a person who was beautiful right to the very core.

Mere words cannot describe her loving and caring nature that she shared with those she knew. She was kind, had a gentle temperament and a sweet angelic smile.

All of her nieces and nephews considered her "the fun aunt." She created a kids club made up of all her nieces and nephews. If they had good grades and did their house chores, they could join the club. The

PRAISE CALENDAR

BY FLORENCE DARBY RELIGION EDITOR

— FEBRUARY — FRI 26 My Father’s House Christian Church and Pastor Paulette d. Paytee present “A Gospel Music Showcase – Be Blessed” at 7 pm. The church is located at 14414 N. Primrose Street in El Mirage. Tickets are available for a suggested donation. For more information and tickets call the church at 623-972-2997.

SAT 27 St. John Baptist Church Black & White Ball at The Audubon, 3131 S. Central Ave. in Phoenix. 6:00 to 10 p.m. For details or tickets please contact Sis. Deborah Johnson, 602-304-1905.

SUN 28 Mayor Vernon B. Parker of Paradise Valley will be guest speaker at the 9:30 a.m. service at Wesley United Methodist Church. In celebration of Black History Month various participants and musical renditions and emphasis the church’s theme “Celebrating Our Heritage, Sharing Our Faith, and Fulfilling Our Mission.” Wesley United Methodist Church is at 750 East Southern Avenue in Phoenix. Everyone is welcome.

Allen Gauff Jr., who’s latest cd release is entitled Win 2010, will have his show Gospel Invasion Broadcast air every Sunday night beginning this week at 10:30pm on Cox 7. At right, Sister Henrietta Hollins holds up a copy of Gauff ’s latest works.

O B I T UA R I E S Sekena Wynette Lockett was born the 5 Ih child to Freddie B. and Ernestine Lockett on March 25, 1963, in Chicago Illinois.

(Freddie B. Lockett preceded her in death.) She attended Daniel Hale Williams Elementary School and graduated from Richards High School. She worked as a welder on several projects in Chicago and also received a degree in paralegal studies. Sekena, affectionately called Wynette by her family, accepted Christ at the tender age of I I and attended Great True Vine Missionary Baptist Church of Chicago.

Wynette moved from Chicago to join her family in Phoenix Arizona in 1987. She worked for The Buttes Hotel in Tempe, Arizona for 12 years.

ARIZONA INFORMANT

activities included trips to numerous places, including the zoo, stays in fancy hotels, sleepovers and games she would make up.

Wynette believed in keeping her family together and often hosted "just because" parties. Her favorite statement was LIVE TO LOVE FOR LIFE. Wynette leaves to "live to love for life", her mother Ernestine Lockett; 2 sons Markell Lockett and Carlton White of Phoenix, Arizona; 3 brothers: Freddie B. Lockett, Jr., Michael Lockett of Phoenix, Arizona, and Melvin Lockett of Layton Utah; 2 sisters: Shirley LockettBlack (John), of Collierville, TN and Rhonda Bowman (Kenneth) of Phoenix, Arizona. Wynette also leaves 3 grandchildren, 14 nieces, 12 nephews, 8 grandnieces, 10 grandnephews, family friends Tonya, Treasure, Daneen, Sharon L., Sharon W., Susan and a host of other relatives and friends.

Pilgrim Rest Baptist In Tucson Hosting A Black History Celebration Saturday On Saturday, February 27, the Pilgrim Rest Baptist Church at 2403 S. Martin Ave in Tucson, Arizona will be having a Black History Celebration in recognition of Black History Month.

The theme of the celebration is "From Africa to the White House.".

Special guests will be the Buffalo Soldiers who will give a presentation on the Buffalo Soldiers in the west and will have an interactive campsite set up with tents, horses, and artifacts.

In addition to the Buffalo Soldiers, there

will be several displays depicting the transition of African Americans from Africa to the present.

The celebration will include speakers, singers, movies, books, artists, food, and dancers. The displays, movies, and books will be available for viewing from 9am to 5pm.

The program component featuring singers, speakers, and dancers will start at 1pm.

Contact James Page at (520)404-2721 or email at ppagesall@msn.com for additional information.

PUEBLO FELLOWSHIP MISSIONARY BAPTIST CHURCH Our pulpit is vacant. We are now interviewing applicants desiring a Pastoral position within this church. Sundays 9 a.m. to 1 p.m.

Please contact 602-276-5355 Address 2536 E. Pueblo Ave. Phoenix, AZ 85040

— MARCH — Fri 5 World Day of Prayer, theme “Let Everything That

Has Breath Praise God,” will be held at Phillips Memorial CME Church, 1401 E. Adams St. Phoenix at 5 pm. World Day of Prayer is a worldwide ecumenical movement of women of many faith traditionals who come together to observe a common day of prayer each year on the first Friday of March. Everyone is invited to attend.

SAT 6 Fountain of Life Workshop Series presents

"Facing Your Giants" with speaker and author Barbara Atkins. Scripture: The Battle is the Lord's. 1-3 p.m. at ASU Kerr Cultural Center - 6110 N. Scottsdale Rd. (at Rose Lane), Scottsdale. Donations are accepted at the door. Visit www.thefolchurch.org for further information.

Morning Star Sanctified Church Gospel Rap Extravaganza will be held at Independence High School, 6602 North 75th Avenue in Glendale. The program will feature “DMX,” Smooth Rapture, The God Chaser, Minister Elliott, Mime Dancers and many more excellent dance and rap artists. For information and ticket sales call 602-323-1440, 623-810-6524 or 602-773-8042.

Submit listings to ainewspaper@qwestoffice.net

ARIZONA INFORMANT

First Person Report:

OUR CHURCH COMMUNITY

Pastor Warren Stewart’s Trip To The White House Black History Celebration

By Dr. Warren H. Stewart, Sr. Senior Pastor, First Institutional Baptist Church

M

y trip to The White House, Tuesday, February 9, 2010, was saturated with evidence of God’s prevenient grace.

The story of my trip is ample evidence.

On January 15, 2010, I was mailed two invitations from “The President and Mrs. Obama” to attend a concert and reception in celebration of “Music from the Civil Rights Movement” and a reception in celebration of Black History Month, both were to be held at the White House. That’s a long way from 511 W. 12th Street in Coffeyville, Kansas.

After two canceled flights due to two back-to-back blizzards back east, I was at home when a

WEDNESDAY, FEBRUARY 24, 2010 19

President Obama greets Dr. Warren Stewart, Sr. at the White House

call came, less than two hours before departure, that I could catch the last flight to Baltimore instead of Washington, D.C. Then another call came informing me that the presidential concert and reception had been moved up a day to Tuesday night. Taking a cab from

Baltimore to D.C. in a snowstorm and another cab to the White House, I arrived on time.

Once at the southeast entrance of the White House, there in freezing weather stood many civil rights dignitaries such as Roger Wilkins, Johnetta Cole, Julian Bond and Benjamin Todd

C H U R C H D I R E C T O RY

Jealous, waiting to pass security and head into the East Room of the White House, along with many other invitees - and me to be screened by security three times.

Once I made it into the White House, I saw well-known congressmen and women, presidential staff and many others.

There was a fancy reception for us guests. I then moved into the East Room, which is a small room that seats about 200 persons, and got a center seat which was totally unobstructed from the stage and the six to seven rows of reserved seats in the front.

In a few moments, we were all told to rise for the entrance of the president and first lady. And guess who got greeted with a handshake as they passed by going to their seats? President

Obama gave opening remarks and the celebration began.

Morgan Freeman was master of ceremonies and others present included the likes of Yolanda Adams, Jennifer Hudson, Smokey Robinson, Bob Dylan, Natalie Cole, John Mellencamp, the Freedom Singers, Blind Boys of Alabama and Howard University Choir singing songs of the Civil Rights Era, all of whom were great.

Then after the celebration, guess who came back my way? I whispered a prayer, then, it happened – President Obama came my way again.

I reached out to him, shook his hand and told him, “Mr. President, I pray for you daily.”

To which he smiled and replied, “Keep lifting me up. I need that.” Now, that’s prevenient grace!

20 WEDNESDAY, FEBRUARY 24, 2010

Greater Love Deliverance Church

Gideon Missionary Baptist Church

1523 E. Wood Street, Phoenix, AZ 85040

Church (602) 243-7119

A church on the move Come move with us!

Rev. John R. Powell, Pastor First Lady Sis. Anita Powell

GLDC_church@netzero.net

“Therefore go and make desciples of all nations...”

Services Held Sunday at

12763 NW Grand Ave. Surprise, AZ 85374

IN RELIGION C H U R C H D I R E C T O RY

Church School 9:30 a.m.

Morning Worship 11 a.m.

Bible Study Wednesday Night

First Institutional Baptist Church 1141 East Jefferson Street, Phoenix, AZ 85034 Dr. Warren H. Stewart Sr., Senior Pastor The Rev. Karen E. Stewart, Pastor’s Wife www.fibcaz.org (602) 258-1998 FAX: (602) 256-2957 LEADING A REVOLUTION OF LOVE THROUGH RIGHTEOUS, RELEVANT AND RADICAL RELATIONSHIPS IN JESUS CHRIST Scriptural Foundation: Mark 12:28-31; John 13:34-35; Romans 13:8-10; Hebrews 6:10-11 (NLT)

Praise & Worship Services Prayer Service Tuesdays at 7:30 p.m.

Putting on the Armor of God Wednesdays at 7:30 p.m.

1248 East Roeser Road Phoenix, Arizona 85040 Church Phone 602-268-5930 FAX 602-268-1501

ADENA DEAN INTERNATIONAL MINISTRIES INC. Evangelist Adena Dean, Th.B.

202 N. M L King Circle Phoenix AZ 85034 602-254-1576

Service Times Sunday School.........9:15 a.m.

Morning Service..........11 a.m.

Bible Class Wednesday...7 p.m.

I can do all things through Christ which strengtheneth me - Phil 4:13

Elder Dr. Julian E. Turner, Pastor

Mt. Calvary Baptist Church 1720 E. Broadway Road Mesa, AZ 85204 Mailing Address: P.O. Box 4242 Mesa, AZ 85211 Ph. (480) 964-5048 FAX (480) 964-5711

Sundays Sunday School at 9 a.m.

Morning Worship 10:45 a.m.

Dr. Lee E. Wells & First Lady Elder Deborah Wells

Purpose, Power, Praise, Prayer and Excellence

Sunday Morning Worship 7:30 a.m. & 11:00 a.m.

Church School 9:30 a.m.

Church of the Living God (C.W.F.F.)

School of the Bible Fridays at 7:30 p.m.

Building people of ...

WORSHIP SCHEDULE

ARIZONA INFORMANT

W O R L D H A RV E S T M I N I S T R I E S CHRISTIAN FELLOWSHIP COGIC 2950 W Fairmount Ave, Phoenix, AZ 85017 602-248-0636, 602-266-1227 fax

www.mcbcmesa.org Reverend David L. Wade Pastor

The Glory of the Lord is in This House Schedule of Services

Put Your

Church Directory

Wednesday Prayer, Worship and the Word on Wednesdays

Information in this Space

6:30 p.m.

Office Hours: Tuesday-Saturday, 8:00 a.m. - 5:00 p.m.

For Information call 602-257-9300

Sunday Monday Night Church School 8:30 a.m. Brotherhood 7:00 p.m.

Morning Service 10:00 a.m. 1st & 3rd Senior Mission 7p.m.

1st & 3rd Men’s Chorus 8:00 p.m.

Tuesday Wednesday 2nd - 4th Young Adult 7 p.m. Noon Day Bible Study 12 p.m.

3rd Tuesday Ushers 7 p.m. Family Prayer & Bible Study 7 p.m.

Thursday Senior Choir 7:30 p.m.

Saturday Youth & Children Choir 10:00 a.m.

2nd Pastoral Support 12:00 p.m.

3rd Saturday Food Care Distribution 8:00 a.m.

Pastor & First Lady Horne

SCHEDULE OF SERVICES Sunday Morning Prayer . . .9:00 am Sunday School . . . .9:30 am Morning worship .10:45 am Wednesday Bible Study . . . . . . .7:00 pm 1st Fridays - Prayer and Pastoral teaching 7:00 pm

Impacting and empowering lives with the Word of God Making Disciples, Maturing Christian, Multiplying Saints

Listen to the Harvest Time Radio broadcast Sunday 6pm 1280 AM KXEG Visit us on the web at: www.Whministries.com

AMOS METROPOLITAN CME CHURCH “Together We Can” 2804 E. MOBILE LANE PHOENIX, AZ 85040

602-243-3109

SUNDAY SCHOOL - 9:00 A.M. SUNDAY SERVICE - 10 A.M. WEDNESDAY BIBLE STUDY 7 P.M. TRANSPORTATION AVAILABLE 602-486-7861 REV. HURLEY

THEME FOR FEBRUARY: “FROM BONDAGE TO FREEDOM”

GRISSOM, PASTOR

Pilgrim Rest Baptist Church 1401 E. Jefferson, Phoenix, AZ 85034 (602) 258-0831

Bishop Alexis A. Thomas, Senior Pastor LINING UP SUNDAY Morning Worship . . . . . . . . . . . .7:45am & 10:45am Sunday School . . . . . . . . . . . . .9:30am Broadcast KXEG Radio 1280 AM........9:30-11:00pm WEDNESDAY Prayer & Praise . . . . . . . . . . . . .6:00pm Family Cluster Bible Study . . .6:30pm

IN RELIGION C H U R C H D I R E C T O RY

ARIZONA INFORMANT

THE FREE CHURCH OF GOD IN CHRIST IN JESUS NAME, INC. 2766 East Marguerite Ave., Phoenix, Arizona 85040

602-268-8076 or 276-5902 BISHOP CHARLES R. JOHNSON Saturday Sabbath School 10 a.m.

Saturday Worship 12 p.m.

Sunday Night Service 7: 30 Tuesday/Thursday Bible Study 7:30

Bethesda Community Baptist Church 906 E. Jones Ave. - P.O. Box 8442 Phoenix, Arizona 85066

WORSHIP SERVICES:

Wednesdays at 7 p.m.

Saturdays at 4 p.m.

Overseers Brian & Yolanda Ewing Pastors Joshua & Tamela Farr

Pastor James N. Preston, Pastor/Teacher Telephone - 602-276-1006 * Fax - 602-276-4526

Chur ch of Chr ist

1101 W. Tonto St., Phoenix, AZ 85007

1923 E Broadway Road, Phoenix, Arizona 85040 • P.O. Box 8764, Phoenix, Arizona 85066 Telephone (602) 276-2582 • Fax (602) 276-7160 • E-mail southminster@smpc.phxcoxmail.com

Weekly Community Worship every Sunday at 10am Weekly Prayer and Bible Study every Thursday at 6pm

U N I T E D F E L LOW S H I P C H U RC H 4210 E. Main St. (suite 10 & 11) Mesa, AZ 85205 480-779-6444 • www.unitedfellowshipchurch.com

Sunday School: 9:30am Sunday Morning Worship: 11:00am Tuesday Womens Ministry: 6:00pm-7:00pm Tuesday Mens Ministry: 7:00pm-8:00pm Tuesday Outreach Ministry: 7:00pm-8:00pm Wednesday Hour of Prayer: 6:00pm-7:00pm Wednesday Bible Study: 7:00pm-8:00pm Wednesday Youth Ministry: 7:00pm-8:30pm Thursday Music Ministry: 7:00pm-9:00pm

Southminster Presbyterian Church Elder Reginald Ragland Commissioned Lay Pastor

WEDNESDAY, FEBRUARY 24, 2010 21

Youth and Adult/Church School is each Sunday: Children 3-6 years of age meet at 9:00am Children 7-12 years of age meet at 9:00am Teens and adults meet at 11:30am The Chancel Choir meets every Thursday at 7:00pm Youth Choir meets every other Saturday at 2:00pm

Weekly Services Sunday Morning Bible Class ........................... 9:15 a.m.

Worship...............................10:30 a.m.

Sunday Evening Bible Class (All Ages) ............5:00 p.m.

Worship ................................6:00 p.m.

Wednesday Evening Bible Class (All Ages) ............6:30 p.m.

Church: 602-252-7852 Res: 602-268-6275

2701 E. Marguerite Ave., Phoenix, AZ 85040 Church: 602-268-0348 or 276-9075 David Eddings, Pastor

Merlon M. Thompson

“…faith, hope, love abide, …the greatest of these is love.”

1 Cor 13.13 RSV Sunday: Sunday Morning Prayer......... 8:30 a.m.

Sunday School ................... 9:15 a.m.

Morning Worship .................10:30 a.m.

Evening Worship ................ 5:00 p.m.

Tuesday: Bible Study ........................ 7:30 p.m.

Thursday: Worship ............................ 7:30 p.m.

All are welcome!

G R E AT E R S H I LO H

Missionary Baptist Church

Fisher Chapel

F a i t h Fa m i l y Community C h u rc h Sunday Services Conducted at Hope Community Church 7901 East Sweetwater (Sweetwater & Hayden) Scottsdale, AZ 85260 9:00 a.m. to 10:30 a.m.

African Methodist Episcopal Zion Church 1607 EAST SOUTH MOUNTAIN AVENUE PHOENIX, ARIZONA 85040

Dr. Gene James Pastor

Wesley United Methodist Church

Telephone (602) 253-0219 • Fax (602) 253-2772

750 E. Southern Ave. Phoenix, AZ 85040 P. O. Box 8508, Phoenix, AZ 85066 Phone: (602) 268-9461 Fax: (602) 305-9424 www.wesleychurchphoenix.org.

“Jesus Christ Is Lord To The Glory Of God The Father.” Phil. 2:11 (b)

Experience the fellowship of caring Christians.

901 W. Buckeye Road, Phoenix, AZ 85007

REV. ROY L. FITZPATRICK, PASTOR Sunday Morning Worship – 10:00 a.m.

Sunday School – 9:00 a.m.

Prayer Meeting and Bible Study: (Wednesdays) – 6:00 p.m. - 7:00 p.m.

Lord’s Supper – (1st Sunday only) For additional information, please call: (602) 253-0219

A Ministry of Excellence!

The House of Rhema Full Gospel Baptist Church

A warm welcome awaits you.

REV. KARL M. CLARK Worship Services PASTOR Early Morning Worship . . .8:00 a.m.

Sunday School . . . . . . . . .9:30 a.m.

Morning Worship . . . . . . . .11:00 a.m.

Wednesday Bible Study . .Noon & 6:30 p.m.

2802 EAST SOUTH MOUNTAIN AVENUE PHOENIX, ARIZONA 85042 (602) 305-7743 • (602) 243-7006 FAX rhemaknights@gmail.com thehouseofrhemafullgospelbaptistchurch.org Sunday School 9 a.m. • Sunday Morning Worship 10 a.m.

Wednesday Bible Study & Prayer 6:30 p.m.

Mid-week Worship 7:00 p.m.

Sunday School. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9:45 a.m.

Morning Worship. . . . . . . . . . . . . 11:00 a.m.

Tuesday Bible Study......10:00 a.m. and 7:00 p.m.

“Come Worship With Us” Rev. Gina R. Casey, Pastor fisherchapel@msn.com Church: 243-5913

Phillips Memorial C.M.E. Church 1401 E. Adams Street Phoenix, AZ 85034 602-253-7156

Rev. Felix Jones, Pastor Sunday School . . . . . . . . . . 9:15 AM Sunday Services . . . . . . . . 11:00 AM ............6:00 PM Bible Study Wednesday . . . . . . . . . . . 7:00 PM

620 NORTH 6TH STREET - CONFERENCE ROOM

PHOENIX, AZ 85004 CHURCH PHONE: 623-225-2212 FOR WE PREACH TO OURSELVES,

SERVICES SUNDAY MORNING WORSHIP SERVICE – 10 AM

CHURCH POTLUCK – 2ND SUNDAY FOLLOWING MORNING WORSHIP

“ALL ARE WELCOME TO THE LORD’S WORSHIP SERVICE”

56 S. Robson, Mesa, AZ 85210-1344

480 844 2687 OTTLEY W. HOLMES, JR. PASTOR

Touching Hearts and changing Lives by The Power of His Word Luke 4:18,19 SUNDAYS: 9am- Sunday School 11am- Morning Worship 4 pm - BTU/CBT Christian Bible Training MONDAY: 6pm - Intercessory Prayer Meeting WEDNESDAY: Prayer Meeting– 5:30pm Bible Study - 7pm www.smbcmesa.org E-mail: sbchurch1011@qwest.net

South Phoenix Missionary Baptist Church 2006 East Broadway Road • Phoenix, AZ 85040 Study: 268-2512 or 276-6237 Weekly Services Sunday School . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9:15 a.m.

Morning Worship . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 11:00 a.m.

1st Sunday Communion . . . . . 7:30 p.m.

Wednesday Teacher’s Meeting . . . . . . . . . 6:30 p.m.

Mid-Week Service . . . . . . . . . 7:30 p.m.

Bible Study . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8:00 p.m.

Dr. Bernard Black, Pastor “This is the Church Where Everybody is Somebody”

UNION INSTITUTIONAL BAPTIST CHURCH 2760 East Mobile Lane Phoenix, Arizona Phone: 602-276-6871 Fax: 602-314-6421

Rev. Lenten Jackson, Jr. Pastor Church Schedule Sunday School............ 9:30 a.m.

Worship Service ..........11:00 a.m.

Prayer Meeting .. Wed. 6:00 p.m.

Bible Study ..........Wed. 6:30 p.m.

SUNDAY WORSHIP AND BIBLE STUDY Early Worship - 7:50 a.m.

Morning Worship - 10:20 a.m.

Sunday School - 9:20 - 10:25 a.m.

BIBLE STUDY Tuesday Evening: 7 - 8 p.m.

Wednesday: noon - 1 p.m.

[ 2 CORINTHIANS 4:5 ]

PASTOR BRUCE D. HART FIRST LADY JANICE HART

SHILOH MISSIONARY BAPTIST CHURCH

Rev. C.R. McDuffy

931 S. Stapley Dr. Mesa AZ 85204 www.mycmbc.org 480-835-6320

HOLIDAY INN EXPRESS HOTEL

BUT CHRIST JESUS THE LORD.

Sunday Mornings .8 a.m. – 9 a.m.

Sunday Mornings . . . . . .9:15 a.m.

Sunday Mornings . . . . .10:45 a.m.

1st Sunday Mornings Wednesday Mornings . .9:30 a.m.

Wednesday Evenings . .6:30 p.m.

Canaan Missionary Baptist Church

NEW HOPE BIBLE CHURCH

PASTOR JAMES R. COCKERHERN

1428 So. 13th Avenue, Phoenix, AZ 85007 Phone: 602-252-5344 • Fax 602-252-1478 Breakfast Ministry Sunday School Morning Worship Communion Prayer & Bible Study Prayer & Bible Study

“Come Visit With Us Where You Are A Stranger But Once”

FIRST PENTECOSTAL CHURCH, INC.

St. John Institutional Baptist Church

Murph Community AME Church REV. DR. D. CHARLES WHARRY, PASTOR 6702 North 27th Ave. Phoenix, AZ 85017 Church: 602-246-3951 Email: wharry7272@msn.com SUNDAY MORNING WORSHIP 9:30 A.M. SUNDAY CHURCH SCHOOL 8:00 – 9:25 A.M. MONDAY-BIBLE STUDY 6:30 – 7:30 P.M. WEDNESDAY-CHURCH ACADEMY 6:00 7:00 P.M. SATURDAY BIBLE STUDIES MENS 8:30 – 9:30 A.M. WOMENS 9:30 – 10:30 A.M.

Put Your

Church Directory Information in this Space For Information call 602-257-9300

BEACON LIGHT SEVENTH DAY ADVENTIST CHURCH Dr. W. Don Edwards 2602 N. 51st Ave. Phoenix, Arizona 602-285-9391

Wednesday Prayer Meeting 7:00 - 8:00 p.m.

Saturday Sabbath School 9:30 a.m.

Morning Worship 11:00 a.m.

Everyone Welcome

22 WEDNESDAY, FEBRUARY 24, 2010

ARIZONA INFORMANT

CLASSIFIED EMPLOYMENT

EMPLOYMENT

NEW Exciting Career Opportunities www.valleymetro.org Accountant III - $59,818 - $89,726 Metro Admin Asst - $30,696 - $46,043 Metro Summer Intern - Planner - $0 AA/EOE/D Employer

Drivers: Trusted by the Best Werner Enterprises!

Regional Top Consistent Freight!

Top Pay, Benefits & Home-time for Solo's and Teams!

1-888-567-3105 thru 3/17

PUBLIC NOTICE

Classified Ads Call 602-257-9300 PUBLIC NOTICE

Aviation Department Commercial Brokerage Services Request for Qualifications (RFQ) The City of Phoenix is seeking submittals for commercial brokerage services to create a Qualified Vendors List. RFQ documents are expected to be released March 2010.

Visit www.phoenix.gov/avirfp or contact Gretchen Wolfe, City of Phoenix Aviation Department, 3400 E. Sky Harbor Blvd., Suite 3300, Phoenix, AZ 85034-4405, 602-273-4082 (phone), 602-273-8809 (fax) for more information.

Kronos Science Laboratory is seeking volunteers for a research study looking at breath markers for fat metabolism.

Participants will be provided with special bags to collect 10 breath samples over a 13-day testing period.

For additional information, call 602-667-5625, or e-mail screening@kronoslaboratory.com.

Compensation provided for time and travel. thru 2/24

Missed an Issue of the Arizona Informant?

Back Issues Are Available at our office at 1746 E. Madison, Suite 2 in Phoenix Issues for the previous four weeks are available for 50¢ Issues older than four weeks are in limited supply and available for $1 - please call ahead 602-257-9300 for availability of older issues.

North HS IB Grad Earns High Marks At Air Force Academy

By Danny L. White The United State Marines Corps are looking for a “few good men,” and the United States Army boast in its ad, that “we do more by six am than some do all day.”

While both ads are appealing and causes the competitive nature in those of age and desire to seek the challenge to become all of that, it was the call of the wild blue yonder that beaconed the daring spirit and competitive nature of one Mister Jonathan Eugene Jackson III. Mister Jackson (yes, his first name is Mister) graduated from North High Schools International Baccalaureate (IB) program in 2008 and after trips to Harvard, Princeton, Cal Berkley and after considering West Pointe, the honor student announced he would become a cadet at the United States Air Force Academy in Colorado.

Young Mr. Jackson’s future plans include attending flight school and learning how to fly jets and possibly space shuttles someday.

“Mister is having the time of his life,” shared his very proud father Ron Jackson recently.

Said Ron, “Mister informed us when he was home over the holidays that this summer he is going to Duke and San Diego to participate in fencing tournaments and then he is scheduled to go to Washington D. C., for a gospel concert and finally he will spend some time in Spain as Spanish is his minor.

“I am really enjoying myself.” Shared Mister with this writer on a recent phone call from Colorado.

“The opportunity to travel, see and experience different places and cultures is one of the reasons I chose the AFC,” said Mister who reported the IB program and all the hard work he put in during his HS years is paying off as he is doing well academically.

Doing well academically is an understatement, Mister ranks in the top five percent of his class

PHOTO COURTESY OF JACKSON FAMILY

Air Force Cadet Mister J. E. Jackson, III in his dress blues.

and was one of only 92 out of 648 members in the class of 2012 to rank in all four categories on the fall 2009 Honor’s listing (grade reports).

The four categories for the Honors list include:

Dean, Commandant, Athletic and Superintendent, Mister made all four lists.

“I have always been active, I love to swim, fence, sing and the thought of flying is grow-

ing on me. I am looking forward to flight simulation and getting in the cockpit of a jet,” said Mister, the excitement rising in his voice.

“When I looked into the ACA and researched the opportunities that are afforded one from attending and graduating from here, I liked what I saw and what the possibilities could be.

“It still all comes down to doing the work, preparing for the next step and taking advantages of opportunities,” said Mister, adding “I visualize each step before going forward and I am confident everything will work out,” We are too Mister!

Good luck and keep looking up. One day we will hear the roar of a jet overhead and it will be you.

ARIZONA INFORMANT

WEDNESDAY, FEBRUARY 24, 2010

23

Speedskater Shani Davis Wins Second Gold in 1000 Meters

By Danny L. White The greatest speedskater ever is not from Germany, Canada, Norway, Switzerland or Poland, but rather from the South side of Chicago.

Shani Davis was born on Friday, August 13, 1982 and began speed skating at age six.

Four years ago in Turin, Italy, Shani Davis became the first African American athlete to win an individual gold medal at a Winter Olympic games. This year in Vancouver, Canada, he became the first Olympian to repeat as the 1000 meter gold medalist.

"When you're a world champion or an Olympic champion you get this little thing on your back called a target," said Davis.

"To come here and win the 1000 meters twice is truly amazing."

What is also amazing is the American Olympic team as a whole. In 2006 in Italy, the team won 25 total medals, nine gold to place second behind

Germany. Four years later, the team has already won 24 medals and leads Germany (18 total) by six medals

women's downhill went to American Lindsey Vonn, who despite

Shani Davis shows off the form that has made him the two-time champion in the 1000 meter race.

overall.

Host country Canada is fourth overall with a total of nine medals, four gold, four silver and one bronze after the first week of competition.

The Canadians were dealt a shock over the past weekend as the US Hockey team defeated team Canada 5-3 in a very

competitive game that went to the wire.

Both teams will continue in hope of securing a place in the final medal round.

Davis the world and American record holder in the 1000, and 1500m barely missed the unique opportunity to return home with two gold medals as his time in the 1500 meters were a few tenths of a second off.

The gold medal in the

injuring her lower leg prior to the games still performed well enough to win.

Shaun White repeated as the gold medalist in the snowboard, performing his amazing triple flip in midair on the halfpipe.

American Evan Lysacek won the men's figure skating gold medal by performing flawlessly and without performing the tough quad/toe/triple toe jump that has become a standard for top skaters the world over.

Lysacek's ability to per- Shani Davis celebrates on the medal stand with his gold form flawlessly and com- medal. Davis also won a silver medal in the 1500 meter plete double jumps was race. even more sensational in pain led to his decision not medals than ever before. that he suffered a stress to train a quad for the Said one national correfracture in his left foot in Olympics until the last spondent that has covered 2008 and had to limit month leading into the the games for over 30 practicing and perfecting games," shared Lysacek's years, "There was a time this part of his routine. coach Frank Carroll.

American's would come to "The stress fracture With several days still the Winter games and severely limited Evan's remaining in this leave with five or maybe practice time in the 2009 olympiad America is sure six medals total. Now they World's and continuing to return with more are leading the world."

Santa Rita Upsets Amphi continued from page 15

A monster dunk by Elija Hawkins, a reserve senior forward, early in the final period set the tone in the fourth quarter for Santa Rita.

A streaking Hawkins took a pass on a fast break off a steal from across halfcourt from teammate Terrell Stoglin, Santa Rita's Parade All-American guard candidate. Hawkins attacked the basket with his dribble, and then with Panther defender Dakeer Fellah hanging all over him, elevated above the rim to slam down a thundering right-handed power dunk that left the gym electrified.

"I was just playing hard.

I did what I had to do to help us win the game," said Hawkins, who finished with seven.

Stoglin, who last month became the all-time career scoring leader for the Tucson area, scored 16 of his game-high 38 in the decisive fourth-quarter.

"We knew the game would be determined in the second-half," said Stoglin. "We came out harder in the second half."

The first quarter ended

Lester Medford and Malcolm Millner were on the losing end against Santa Rita but were key to Amphi’s 26 game J VANDERSON/AZI PHOTOS win streak leading to the game.

with the game tied at 21 as both teams had little trouble finding the basket.

Santa Rita's senior forward Andre Hatchett, who finished his evening with 24, scored eight points in the period. Star senior pointguard Lester Medford, who posted a team-high 20 for the game, led the Panthers in the quarter with five points.

"They stepped up and took their play to another level in the fourth-quarter, and we did not match it," said Medford, a 4A allstate candidate.

Amphi High, which dethroned Santa Rita as the three-time defending

Gila Region champs this season by defeating Palo Verde 80-52 in a region game earlier in the week to claim the region crown outright, used two threepoint shots from reserve guard Malcolm Millner and one from Medford while tallying 22 points to finish the second-quarter leading 43-41. Hatchett stayed hot in the quarter by again scoring eight for the Eagles.

"I don't know what happened tonight. I think the intensity of the crowd got to us, and changed the way that we played," said Millner, contributed 13 in the game.

24

WEDNESDAY, FEBRUARY 24, 2010

CELEBRATE BLACK HISTORY

ARIZONA INFORMANT

PRODUCTION UNDERWRITER

By

Romulus Linney Featuring:

With:

Directed by

Ed Smith

Anton Floyd and Aaron Petite

Bo Allen Rod Ambrose Joyce Gittoes Iris Huey and Tom Koelbel

By the end of this powerful adaptation of Ernest J. Gaines’ prize-winning novel, someone is going to die and at least some one is going to learn something. A young man is to be executed for a murder he probably didn’t commit. But in 1948 Louisiana, the question is not whether or not young Jefferson will be executed, but how he will face his fate. This is a story of inevitability, not surprise.

FEBRUARY 18-28 Thursday–Saturday at 8 p.m. ~ Sunday Matinees at 3 p.m.

Wednesday Matinee, February 24th at 2 p.m.

Playhouse on the Park (in the Viad Tower at Central & Palm Lane)

1850 N. Central Avenue, Phoenix P.O. Box 13349 Phoenix, AZ 85002 David J. Hemphill Executive Director

For Tickets & Reservations: 602-254-2151 ext. 4 www.BlackTheatreTroupe.org CONSOLIDATED AUTO SALES Photos by Laura Durant ~ www.durantcom.com

Gather the family and join us on Saturday, February 27th at 2 pm for a special matinee performance.

The 2009-2010 Family Matinee Series is generously sponsored by

The Roman Sarwark Foundation

Graphic Design by Jezac ~ www.jezac.com

© 2010 The Black Theatre Troupe, Inc.