Daytona Times, February 21, 2019

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OF CONTINUOUS WEEKLY PUBLISHING

East Central Florida’s Black Voice

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40 YEARS

CELEBRATING

RELL BLACK: WHY ‘DOO DAY’ IS AN IMPORTANT COMMUNITY EVENT PAGE 4

BROWN MAKES HISTORY AS SEABREEZE FOOTBALL COACH SEE PAGE 6

FEBRUARY 21 - FEBRUARY 27, 2019

YEAR 44 NO. 8

www.daytonatimes.com

B-CU to memorialize fourth president Services will take place on March 1 and 2 on campus for Dr. Oswald P. Bronson BY ANDREAS BUTLER DAYTONA TIMES

The Bethune-Cookman University family is mourning the passing this week of Dr. Oswald P. Bronson, the institution’s fourth president. Dr. Bronson died on Sunday, Feb. 17, at age 91. A 1950 alum, Dr. Bronson served as Bethune-Cookman’s president for 29 years – from 1975 until 2004. He then was named president emeritus. A memorial service is sched-

uled for Friday, March 1 at 6:30 p.m. at Heyn Memorial Chapel, 640 Dr. Mary McLeod Bethune Blvd., Daytona Beach. A Celebration of Life will be held at 11 a.m. Saturday, March 2, at the Mary McLeod Bethune Performing Arts Center, 698 West International Speedway Blvd., Daytona Beach.

B-CU achievements Under his leadership, major fields of study increased from 12 to 37. In addition, seven continuing education centers for students began operating throughout the state, the website states, according to the university. Student enrollment increased during Dr. Bronson’s tenure from

1,520 students in 1975 to 2,794 in 2003. He also presided over tremendous growth of the institution’s physical plant, budget and endowment. Fifteen new buildings were constructed under his administration, most notably the 2,500 seat Mary McLeod Bethune Performing Arts Center. The institution’s annual budget grew from $6.2 million in 1975 to $51.4 million in 2003, and the endowment surged from $1.2 million to $26.5 million in the same time period, B-CU notes. “Dr. Bronson’s legacy is that of a revered educator, spiritual leader and humanitarian whose reach extended throughout the See BRONSON, Page 2

DAYTONA TIMES / 40TH ANNIVERSARY

Cherry honored, mayor’s ‘quiet ride’

Dr. Oswald P. Bronson, waves to “his friends’’ as his wife, Helen, looks on. The former president was known for his standard opening line, “My friends.’’

Seabreeze dealing with fights, online threat BY ANDREAS BUTLER DAYTONA TIMES

The girl allegedly was wielding a knife.

For more than a month, fights have reportedly been breaking out at Seabreeze High School. On Tuesday, 731 students missed school after an online threat was made about someone possibly taking a gun to the school. There are more than 1,700 students enrolled at the Daytona Beach school. On Wednesday, there was an off-campus fight near the school involving students and two construction workers. Police were looking for a 15-year girl who is a freshman at the school. The workers and the girl reportedly were exchanging racial slurs.

District responds According to social media posts from Volusia County Schools, police were in the area because of a fight last week near the same area. Authorities say the fights aren’t racially motivated but some students have a different take. Parents are concerned and one told the Daytona Times that she is taking her kid out of the school.

No lockdown On Wednesday, Volusia County School District spokesperson See SEABREEZE, Page 2

DUANE C. FERNANDEZ/HARDNOTTSPHOTOGRAPHY.COM

Daytona Beach Mayor Derrick Henry reads the lifetime achievements of Mrs. Narcissus Brown and Beatrice Johnson.

Deaconess group throws party for 100-year-old members BY ANDREAS BUTLER DAYTONA TIMES

Fourteen years ago in 2005, the Daytona Times reported on the Daytona Beach City Commission unanimously honoring former Zone 6 Commissioner Charles W. Cherry Sr., and Mayor Yvonne Scarlett-Golden’s initiative to “Ride Quietly, Please” during the city’s annual Bike Week.

ALSO INSIDE

One had the honor of singing at the White House at age 88. The other had careers in New York and Miami, was a basketball player and a ballroom dancer. The women of the Deaconess Board at Greater Friendship Baptist Church got together and honored two of their special members on Monday. They threw a birthday celebration for Mrs. Narcissus Brown who turned 100 years old on that day – Feb. 17. Mrs. Beatrice Johnson, who will turn 101 on May 29, also was in attendance. The party was held at the Daytona Beach home of Essie Smith, chair of Greater Friendship’s Deaconess Board. Although Mrs. Johnson’s birthday is in the spring, the group

wanted to go ahead and honor her as well. They both are members of the church and its Deaconess Board.

‘Feeling wonderful’ Both centenarians felt blessed and expressed their thanks. “I’m feeling wonderful. The only thing hurting is my little toe. I just have been able to wake up every day. I thank God,” Mrs. Brown said. Her career included working at agencies that helped children and adults. She also has made great strides as a singer. Mrs. Brown performed at the White House for President George H.W. Bush in 1988 at the age of 88. “It was marvelous and surreal,” she said about signing at the White House. “I was surrounded See PARTY, Page 2

COMMUNITY: FORMER TV ANCHOR TALKS ABOUT HER HISTORY, BLACK HISTORY AT ORMOND EVENT | PAGE 3 BLACK HISTORY MONTH: SPRINGFIELD RACE RIOT IN 1908 LED TO THE FOUNDING OF THE NAACP | PAGE 5


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FEBRUARY 21 – FEBRUARY 27, 2019

Justices reject appeal in prison guard murder case NEWS SERVICE OF FLORIDA

The U.S. Supreme Court on Tuesday refused to take up an appeal by a Florida Death Row inmate convicted in the 2008 murder of a prison guard at Tomoka

Correctional Institution in Volusia County. Justices, as is common, did not explain their reasons for declining to hear the appeal by inmate Enoch Hall. Justice Sonia Sotomayor dissented.

Volusia seeks advisory board applicants

Hall, now 50, was convicted of killing corrections officer Donna Fitzgerald. At the time of the murder, Hall worked as a welder in a Prison RehabiliEnoch tative Industries Hall and Diversified Enterprises, or PRIDE, program at Tomoka Correctional Institution.

What they do

The Volusia County Council is seeking applicants for positions on advisory boards that research and make recommendations on topics affecting the community. There are vacancies on the Affordable Housing Advisory Committee, Agri-business Inter-relationship Committee, Animal Control Board, Children and Families Advisory Board, Code Enforcement Board, Contractor Licensing and Construction Appeals Board, Cultural Council, ECHO Advisory Board, Educational Facilities Authority, Historic Preservation Board, Human Services Advisory Board, Library Advisory Board, Planning and Land Development Regulation Commission, Spring Hill Community Redevelopment Area, Tourist Development Council, Value Adjustment Board, and Volunteer Firefighter Retirement Advisory Board.

The advisory boards were established to give citizens input into what happens in their community and to advise the County Council on matters that affect residents and their county government. Applicants should have the expertise necessary to accomplish the board’s objectives, a reputation for integrity and community service, and an interest or experience in the area of board service desired. In addition, openings are available on the Halifax Area Advertising Authority, Southeast Volusia Advertising Authority and West Volusia Tourism Advertising Authority. Members will be selected by the Volusia County Council. Applications and more information are available at www.volusia.org/advisory. For information about the duties and responsibilities of advisory boards, contact Deputy Clerk Marcy Zimmerman at mzimmerman@volusia.org or 386736-5920, ext. 12398.

2016 ruling cited Fitzgerald was found stabbed to death in a PRIDE facility, and Hall admitted that he killed her, according to court documents. Hall appealed to the U.S. Supreme Court last year after the Florida Supreme Court rejected his arguments. The appeal was rooted in a 2016 U.S. Supreme Court ruling that found Florida’s death-penalty sentencing system was unconstitutional because it gave

Summer lifeguard tryouts begin Feb. 23 Are you interested in a job that involves sun, sand and saving lives? Volusia County’s Beach Safety Division is hiring lifeguards to help keep beachgoers safe this summer. Upcoming tryouts are mandatory for those interested in a position. Swim tryout dates and locations are: Saturday, Feb. 23 8 to 11 a.m.: Ormond Beach YMCA, 500 Sterthaus Drive Noon to 3 p.m.: Cypress Aquatic Center, 981 George W. Engram Blvd., Daytona Beach Saturday, March 2 8 to 11 a.m.: Port Orange YMCA, 4701 City Center Parkway Noon to 3 p.m.: Cypress Aquatic Center Saturday, March 9 8 to 11 a.m.: Ormond Beach YMCA Noon to 3 p.m.: Cypress Aquatic Center Saturday, March 16 8 to 11 a.m. and noon to 3 p.m.: Cypress Aquatic Center

too much authority to judges, instead of juries. A subsequent Florida Supreme Court ruling said juries must unanimously agree on critical findings before judges can impose death sentences and must unanimously recommend the death penalty. Hall’s attorneys pointed to an alleged error in how the 2016 U.S. Supreme Court ruling, in a case known as Hurst v. Florida, was carried out.

Applicants must be at least 16 on or before June 1 and be able to swim 500 meters freestyle in under 10 minutes, swim 50 yards freestyle in under 30 seconds, and run a half-mile in under 3 minutes, 15 seconds.

$500 incentive Candidates considered for hiring will undergo a background check, physical and drug screening. Starting pay is $11.90 per hour. There is a $500 incentive for lifeguards if they meet criteria specifying number of weekend work days over their first summer. This is explained during the recruit class. Those who wish to participate in the selection process must attend one of the 2019 tryouts, as well as Volusia County Beach Safety’s lifeguard recruit class (mandatory 48-hour ocean rescue training). Additionally, participants must attend a 40-hour first responder class and CPR course or provide proof of equivalence. For more information, visit volusia.org/ beach or call 386-239-6414.

PARTY from Page 1

by so many people and I was being asked so many questions that I couldn’t answer them all. I was amped up,” she recalled.

Looking forward to 101 At their party on Monday, Mrs. Johnson was having fun and expressed her gratitude as well. She said, “This is a great party. I had a great party too at Stonewood Grill back in May (2018). I’m looking forward to another in May. I just pray to God every day. He gives me strength and confidence. I thank him every day.” As a young woman, she moved to New York and worked at the Hattie Carnegie hat shop where she shopped for materials for hats that were made for the Duchess of Windsor. She also worked at General Electric in New York. Mrs. Johnson worked for 30 years in the Dade County School System as a secretary and later retired from the school board. In her youth, she was an exceptional basketball player and ballroom dancer who danced at the famous Savoy Club in New York.

The Greater Friendship Baptist Church Deaconess Board and friends honor Mrs. Narcissus Brown and Mrs. Beatrice Johnson. am thankful and blessed. Things have gotten better, but still aren’t like it should be. It was worst when I was a kid. We have many in our race who have reached great heights. We must keep going,” Mrs. Johnson remarked. Mrs. Brown added, “I lived through it all. We’ve come a long way in this country, but we have a long way to go. I would like to see our people recognized as human beings on this earth. God created us all. We should be recognized like everyone else.”

‘Come a long way’

On Obama’s presidency

They both lived through wars, the Great Depression, Jim Crow, the Civil Rights Movement and 18 U.S. presidents. They have lived through the struggles, progress and setbacks of Black people in America. “I’ve been through all of it. I

They also weighed in on seeing the nation election its first Black president, Barack Obama. “I was elated to see Obama as president. I was proud to see a Black man lead this country. I never got to meet him but would like too,” responded Mrs. Brown.

Mrs. Johnson echoed, “I’ve seen many presidents. It was a great moment when Obama became president. Obama sent me a birthday card. Everyone is nice to me. Not everyone believes that I am 100. I thank God.”

Longtime residents Mrs. Brown moved to Daytona Beach in 1990 to live with her daughter Nadine Spencer. She was born Feb. 18, 1919 in South Boston, Virginia. Her parents, Bessie and Winston Owens, relocated to Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania when she was 9. She graduated from Schenley High in Pittsburgh. She later worked for the Department of Children and Family Services in Volusia County and the Center for the Blind in Daytona Beach. Along with the White House, she has performed on the shows

of Bobby Jones and Bing Cosby, as well as for government officials around the country. She is the godmother of gospel artist Kurt Carr and has sang with him. Mrs. Johnson was born on May 29, 1918 in Madison, Georgia, and attended school at Howard Academy in Ocala, Florida. She moved to Daytona in 1995 where her sister Geneva Loper resides. She now lives at the Pines retirement home in Ormond Beach. She has one daughter, Charlene Riettie, two grandchildren, five great-grandchildren and three great-great grandkids. Her son, Gilbert Michael, is deceased.

Henrys attend Guests at Monday’s party included Daytona Beach Mayor Derrick Henry and Zone 5 City Commissioner Danette Henry.

SEABREEZE from Page 1

Dr. Oswald P. Bronson shares a light moment in his office.

BRONSON from Page 1

nation,” said B-CU’s Interim President Hubert Grimes. “He was a largerthan-life-figure who transitioned during a month in which we celebrate giants in Black History. I considered him a mentor and friend.”

President and pastor He graduated from Bethune-Cookman in 1950 and earned a bachelor of divinity degree from Gam-

mon Theological Seminary. He received a Ph.D. degree from Northwestern University in 1965. Dr. Bronson went on to serve as president of Interdenominational Theological Center in Atlanta from 1968-1975, Bethune-Cookman from 1975-2004 and Edward Waters College in Jacksonville from from 2005-2007. An ordained United Methodist minister, Dr. Bronson also pastored a number of churches over 16 years. Dr. Bronson is survived by his wife, Helen Williams Bronson, former curator of the Mary McLeod

Bethune Foundation at Bethune-Cookman; three children: Josephine “Bunny” Bronson, Flora Stitt, Oswald “Chip” Bronson Jr.; five grandsons; three great grandchildren; a sister, Dr. Audrey F. Bronson, and other relatives. Herbert Thompson Funeral Home in Daytona Beach is in charge of arrangements. A detailed story on the life and legacy of Dr. Oswald P. Bronson, which includes family reflections, will appear in the Feb. 22 issue of the Florida Courier. It also can be read online at flcourier.com.

Kelly Schulz issued a statement updating the situation at the school on both Facebook and Twitter. “As many of you know, there have been fights recently involving some Seabreeze High School students both on and off campus. Police have been investigating and the school has taken action against some of the students involved,” the statement read. “Today during the off-campus lunch, several students were seen getting into a fight with two construction workers. Police were in the area because of the fight on Friday near the same spot and stopped the fight quickly.’’ “There have been a lot of rumors circulating today on social media. We want you to know that Seabreeze was not on lockdown today and no weapons were found on campus. Everyone on campus remains safe. Once again, the incident that happened today was off campus. If you have any questions, please call the school before spreading unsubstantiated information,” the statement included.

‘It was crazy’ Students are also concerned about their safety at the school after some nerve-racking weeks. “I went to school yesterday, but I was afraid that someone was going to come to school and shoot us. I normally do feel safe since we do have officers

The mayor presented the seal of the city and commemorative pens to the honorees. He also presented them with letters from the city detailing their life achievements. “I am thankful for both ladies. Being 100 years is a great blessing. These ladies set the example of how to live and exercise our faith. I believe a city that appreciates and honors its seniors will be great. We honor and appreciate them,” the mayor noted. Commissioner Henry remarked, “This is one of the best parts of being a commissioner – being able to honor people who have been through all genres of life like these ladies have. They have experienced so much, including the nation’s first Black president. I’m delighted to be able to celebrate 100 years with these young ladies.”

on campus,” K’maya Brown, a junior at Seabreeze, told the Times on Wednesday. Shane Culver, a freshman, at the school, said he doesn’t feel safe. “I went to school that day, but it was crazy. Nobody was really there and classes were really small. We were afraid just about every time someone came in a door. Normally, I feel a little safe but yesterday was crazy,” he related. Brown doesn’t think the incidents were racially motivated. “No, I don’t think it was a racial incident at all. Black and White kids were on both sides,” stated Brown. Culver differed. “They say it’s not racial now, but that is not what I originally heard. There are some White kids that do use the “n” word a lot.”

Parents react One parent who didn’t want to be identified due to fear of retaliation to the student told the Times that she’s taking her child out of the school. “I think it is an unsafe environment and I am taking my child out of the school to be home-schooled. I think that it is racial and been going on for some time,” she stated. Another parent said her child was involved in some of the fights. She also didn’t want to be identified. “Parents feel for their children’s safety. Also, we know that punishments are being dished out unfairly with Black students being expelled and White students getting in-school suspension, which is truly unfair. We hear parents are moving their kids out of the school,” she told the Times on Wednesday.


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M A YNEWS OR

FEBRUARY 21 – FEBRUARY 27, 2019 COMMUNITY DECEMBER 14 - 20, 2006

Brockington shares her history and Black history during library event Jackie Brockington – a woman who’s holding it down - launched the Fourth Annual Black History Month feature produced by Linda Epps and Lawrence Green. They are promoters keeping Black history alive. The monthlong presentation at the Ormond Beach Regional Library allowed participants to present history, culture, and art. Green’s artwork also was part of a window display. “When we (her husband) saw Jackie Brockington, we were elated because she was (and is) an African-American woman, who was elegant on TV, who was graceful, who was right on point,” said Gerri WrightGibson, former president of the Daytona Beach Symphony Guild, while introducing Brockington for her talk, “Doing Our Part.’’ Brockington is a journalist, a 30-year broadcasting specialist, beginning in Brooklyn, and on the air in a career in Washington, D.C.; Baltimore, San Diego, and Orlando. She has been a local, strong force anchoring News 13 from 2001 until retiring in 2017, and for Central Florida’s NBC affiliate, WESH Channel 2, during the 1980s. Brockington, owner/CEO of LegalShield Associates, is a mother, grandmother, cancer survivor, volunteer with the American Cancer Society and board member of the Art History Museum of Maitland. She’s also a recipient of President Barack Obama’s prestigious Lifetime Achievement Award.

Bullied in Brooklyn Brockington presented guidance, navigating the legacy that will be left behind folks doing their part contributing to African-American history. Growing up in Brooklyn’s Brownsville projects, Brockington’s stepdad was a presser at a dry cleaner. Her mom, a maid, had a thing about speaking well, and accepting no less, her daughter was bullied by the other kids. “They thought I was trying to be better than they were - Miss Goody Two-Shoes,’’ she said. “And yet, we often notice when you have somebody that’s maybe not doing what you do, they want to bring you down to their level... to feel good about themselves,” she added. “And so, what did Mi-

PALM COAST COMMUNITY NEWS JEROLINE D. MCCARTHY PHOTOS COURTESY OF LINDA EPPS

chelle Obama say? ‘When they go low, we go high!’” She recalled a Mother Gaston helping the neighborhood kids, offering AfricanAmerican studies at her apartment in the projects, and where Brockington’s taste was cultivated for Black studies. Her mother taught her to think outside 345 Livonia Avenue, in a big world, in which her mother provided her to see her first Broadway play, to go to a sleep-away camp, and to have the social graces afforded the well-to-do families that her mother worked for. “I don’t want to hear about your circumstances. I don’t want to hear that you lived in the ghetto, or that your family was on welfare...and the streets were easier,” she says to the students she speaks before in the schools.

As part of a monthlong presentation, African Fashions by Paco featured Virene Garrett, Imani Kinshasa, Russell Whyte, the Rev. Cheryl Daniels, Jacqualine Whyte and promoter Linda Epps.

JEROLINE D. MCCARTHY/DAYTONA TIMES

JEROLINE D. MCCARTHY/DAYTONA TIMES

Foray into TV

From 2001 to 2017, Jackie Brockington was an anchor at News 13.

Promoter and artist Lawrence Green showcased his artwork during the event.

‘The fight is real’

you think if I take my wig off people won’t realize that I’m still Black. She (her boss) acted like it was going to be an uproar and something horrible was going to happen. “I was going to quit because it was the principle - not that I’m rich. This is my hair!’’ she exclaimed. But, lo and behold, no uprising ensued when Brockington finally wore her own hair. Moreover, she mentioned that during a broadcast in years past at the Zora Neale Hurston Festival, rather than show the various artisans, a group of Black people eating fried chicken was put on the air. “I was mortified,” she said. “I was screaming and saying, “What the hell!’’ “And, I said, there are artisans that come from all over the United States with their wares, who are very accomplished. And, I said, they have all sorts of food, from Greek to barbecue – everything - and you chose to show people eating chicken!” The response was: “Sometimes, Jackie, that’s the only people around.” “Then you paraphrase it,” Brockington answered, “and write what they said.” As Brockington’s approval ratings have been good, so was she in launching the Fourth Annual Black History Month event. ••• As always, remember our prayers for the sick, afflicted, the prodigal son, or daughter, and the bereaved.

Brockington went to Brooklyn College, and had no intention of going into journalism. She wanted to write a book and become an author. During the time in Green Bay, Wisconsin, when she was married to an NFL football player, it became life-changing when she was elected to air a TV show, following the previous year’s shows spotlighting the players. “I was like ‘what?’” she recalled. The show was taped with her doing it differently by zeroing in on the wives, and presenting her foray into television. A professor of meteorology and climatology was hired to train her on her job delivering the weather in the Midwest. And then, the “Take a Break with Jackie” show broadcasted, and subsequently, her entertainment show followed, interviewing vocalists The Ink Spots, among the other guests. Brockington was summoned to broadcast news in Washington, D. C., and, thereafter, for her other assignments.

ACADEMIC EXCELLENCE FOR BLACK STUDENTS. NO EXCUSES. The classic guide from Florida Courier publisher, lawyer and broadcaster CHARLES W. CHERRY II PRAISE FOR ‘EXCELLENCE WITHOUT EXCUSE’:

She provides vigilance elucidating topics, unlike her former broadcast days when her emotions could not be expressed. It’s 2019, and we’re still having Black face issues. “That’s why it is very important to know who represents you in your area,” she said. “They all have local offices. Pay them a visit. “Invite them to come and speak at your various organizations,” she continued. “Let them know you are concerned. “Hold them accountable. They work for us,” she added. “If they want your vote, they are going to come. “If they come and there’s only two or three persons in the audience,” she said, “then, they don’t care, and can do what they want...Reach out, volunteer, become a mentor.” It’s amazing to this television personality how we have to fight for things that are ours. “Keep our history true, and passed on,” she ascribes. “We’ve come so far in many areas: Movies, music, politics, education. But, you know, our fight is far from over,” she said. “But the fight is real. So let’s not faint, falter, or fall down,” Brockington further stated. “But, if we do, please get up and show up!”

She’s not her hair In her years in television, women of color are finally wearing their own hair. “Do you know what a fight that was,” she said. “It was a fight!” During the years of talking with her boss on the hair issue, Brockington said, “Do

Celebrations Birthday wishes to Berkeley Chandler, Feb. 21; Shauntice Shepherd, Feb. 25; Renata McCarthy, Feb. 26; and Douglas Brown, Feb. 27. Happy anniversary to Dr. and Mrs. Irving Robinson, Feb. 28.

“This guide for African-American college-bound students is packed with practical and insightful information for achieving academic success...The primary focus here is to equip students with the savvy and networking skills to maneuver themselves through the academic maze of higher education.” – Book review, School Library Journal • How low expectations of Black students’ achievements can get them higher grades; • Want a great grade? Prepare to cheat! • How Black students can program their minds for success; • Setting goals – When to tell everybody, and when to keep your mouth shut; • Black English, and why Black students must be ‘bilingual.’ …AND MUCH MORE!

www.excellencewithoutexcuse.com Download immediately as an eBook or a pdf Order softcover online, from Amazon, or your local bookstore ISBN#978-1-56385-500-9 Published by International Scholastic Press, LLC Contact Charles at ccherry2@gmail.com

Facebook ccherry2 excellencewithoutexcuse

for info on speeches, workshops, seminars, book signings, panel discussions.

Twitter @ccherry2

Students and their chaperones are shown at the S. James Foxman Justice Center.

Tomorrow’s Leaders visit Seventh Judicial Circuit Court FUTURES Foundation’s Tomorrow’s Leaders recently visited the S. James Foxman Justice Center and the Volusia Branch Jail for Criminal Justice Day. Thirty-nine Volusia County students representing all 10 area public high schools – along with their chaperones – spent a morning with Seventh Judicial Circuit Chief Judge Raul Zambrano, Circuit Judge Leah Case, Circuit Judge Matt Foxman, various public defenders and assistant state attorneys. Students observed Circuit Judge Case’s morning docket including arraignments and a sentencing, which taught them valuable lessons about the criminal justice system. Deputy Chief State Attorney John Reid and Public Defender Jim Purdy along with members of their teams joined the Tomorrow’s Leaders for lunch and shared information about their roles, duties and responsibilities across the Seventh Judicial Circuit. On Feb. 28, the final seminar for this six-

month leadership development program will focus on health care and social services and include tours of Halifax Health Medical Center and Halifax Urban Ministries’ Hope Place.

About the organization FUTURES Foundation is a nonprofit, direct support organization founded in 1985 to support Volusia County Schools. Its mission is to engage business and civic leaders to promote and achieve educational excellence for Volusia County Public Schools. The foundation’s 33-member board of directors consists of area business and civic leaders who direct and raise funds to facilitate a variety of programs in the school district. FUTURES facilitates programs such as Tomorrow’s Leaders and the Volusia Take Stock in Children program, which offers scholarships, mentors and hope to at-risk, low-income high school students. For more information about FUTURES Foundation, contact Executive Director Cynthia Ramirez at 386-255-6475, ext. 50730, caperric@volusia.K12.FL.US or visit its website at www.FuturesVolusia.org.


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7 EDITORIAL

FEBRUARY 21 – FEBRUARY 27, 2019

‘Doo Day,’ and why positive Black events are important February 17 was supposed to be a day of fun in the sun, community unity and nonviolence. A day of laughter among friends, music, dancing and a time for closure, grieving and remembrance for not just one family, but several broken families in our community. Families who have lost sons, daughters, brothers and sisters to nonsensical violence and in return, turned their pain into progress. The second annual “Doo Day” celebration, which honors the life of murdered community citizen and father Jerrod Swinton, has become almost legendary. All over the city, adults and children alike were planning on celebrating the day by riding dirt bikes in honor of the slain young king, which was his favorite pastime. Coined “ Bikes Up, Guns Down,” the all-day event ‒ which was to include a community prayer session and a demonstration on anti-gun violence ‒ was all but banned. The increase of “cancelled” or “unapproved” urban events in the community has led many to believe that Daytona just doesn’t support positive Black events.

Streets blocked off Unlike last year, there were no young men riding dirt bikes down “The Ave.” Instead, there was a police blockade which prevented cars from either entering or leaving the entire MMB-MLK area for eight entire hours ‒ an entire workday. Not only did this severely affect the planned antiviolence bike ride; it severely affected our valuable and appreci-

RELL BLACK GUEST COLUMNIST

“Doo Day,” and similar events such as “Dre Day” – in memory of another slain citizen, Quordre Wiley – have become Daytona staples. Children and families Nothing new depend on cultural Sadly, we shouldn’t be surevents for representation prised. Who remembers Black Reunion ‒ the one weekand positive motivation. College end of the year where Black colated Black business owners who depend on local customers to provide for their families. Our community prides itself on “The Ave” and the illustrious businesses that are all lined up around this area. From Bethune Grill to Zion Gates, each of these corporations – mostly Blackowned ‒ suffered an economic hit to the gut as well as had to shut their doors as a result of the lack of activity happening that day. If you love this community, you should be outraged! The most ironic part is that “Doo Day” happened to fall on “Daytona Day,” on which

Here’s the deal on politicians and ‘Benjamins’ Politicians and ‘Benjamins” is not exactly one of the best-kept secrets. Everybody knows no lobbyist, no interest group, no individual gives campaign donations to a candidate or incumbent they believe will not work in their best interest. Why should they? I certainly would not. Why is it that Congresswoman Ilhan Omar simply saying what is so well-known somehow winds up being classified as anti-Semitic? Racism never gets this kind of reaction. There’s got to be more to it.

What happened to me I have run for office and was called on the carpet by pro-Israel groups simply for having my best friend from law school as my campaign manager. He hap-

DR. E. FAYE WILLIAMS, ESQ. TRICE EDNEY NEWS WIRE

pened to be Palestinian, with no particular views on the Middle East. He was apolitical. It didn’t matter to those complaining that my policy director was Jewish and did have views about the treatment of Palestinians. I have been to Israel and to the areas where Palestinians live. I’ve seen the devastation of homes. I’ve seen the olive trees bulldozed. I’ve seen Palestinians punched with the barrel of guns and more. I’ve also been to Holocaust

Vaping epidemic among teens must end We must take aggressive steps to protect our children from these highly potent products that risk exposing a new generation of young people to nicotine. The bad news is that e-cigarette use has become an epidemic among our nation’s young people. However, the good news is that we know what works to effectively protect our kids from all forms of tobacco product use, including e-cigarettes. We must now apply these strategies to e-cigarettes, including USB flash drive shaped products such as JUUL. To achieve success, we must work together, aligning and coordinating efforts across both old and new partners at the national, state, and local levels. Everyone can play an important role in protecting our nation’s young

the Daytona 500 commences. On the busiest day of Daytona Beach tourism, police officers were ordered to cut off access to stores and businesses that are located on the historic Mary McLeod Bethune Blvd. Even before 8 a.m., there were 9 patrol cars perched on Garden Street, while video evidence shows officers riding up and down the street almost like a warden checking on his prisoners. An event based on positivity, anti-gun violence and unity had more police presence than that of a bomb threat being called in. Is the city sending us a message? Is it finally time to accept that Daytona Beach, Florida has no plans to promote or approve any urban focused events?

MARC H. MORIAL TRICE EDNEY NEWS WIRE

people from the risks of e-cigarettes. U.S. Surgeon General Jerome Adams A decade after the introduction of vaping – the inhalation of nicotine vapor rather than smoke produced by a cigarette – a growing body of evidence shows the practice is far more dangerous than assumed, and is a major gateway for teens to become addicted to nicotine. The U.S. surgeon general calls vaping among teens an epidemic. A recent study suggested that

lege students and non-students alike came to Daytona Beach and turned it into the world’s biggest house party? Cancelled. What about the annual MLK parade? Non-existent these days. Award-winning chef and Restaurateur Jessica Foreman of “Sauté Kingz” has personally dealt with the disrespect and confusion between events held in our city. “Stop showing favoritism to certain businesses and events and making decisions based on personal opinion of a culture and embrace the diversity this country was built with,” she says. There is a severe disconnect between those in power museums in different parts of the world. I’ve read stories and heard the testimonies of families impacted by such cruelty. I’ve heard the unbelievable tragedy of many families, and my heart bleeds for the pain of all involved.

Rights and wrongs I can’t allow my heart to ache for my Jewish friends while ignoring my Palestinian friends. So in my campaign, I couldn’t swear my loyalty to anyone while seeing a wrong against another. During my campaign for Congress, a man by the name of Shelly Beychok ‒ who at the time was an activist with the American Israel Public Affairs Committee (AIPAC) ‒ tried to force me to sign a “loyalty to Israel” document before supporting me. Just days before the election, polls had me leading my opponent, a wellknown racist Republican who’d called for burning down schools before allowing Black and White children to attend school together.

teens who vape are more likely to smoke cigarettes, and more likely to start smoking at a younger age.

Higher doses Furthermore, the new generation of devices are capable of delivering higher doses of nicotine, leading to greater incidence of addiction as well as nicotine toxicity and psychiatric symptoms among teenagers that haven’t been observed in adult smokers. “We let this Frankenstein loose without knowing what was going to happen,” Dr. Sharon Levy, director of the Adolescent Substance Use and Addiction Program at Boston Children’s Hospital, ominously observed in a report by CNN. Research has also shown another possible danger in vaping among African-Americans. Black smokers were more likely than Whites to turn to vaping as a means of quitting smoking, but former smokers who began using e-cigarettes were more than 16

VISUAL VIEWPOINT: DONALD TRUMP’S MEXICAN WALL

BAGLEY / SALT LAKE CITY TRIBUNE

and those who live, survive and make this city what it is. “Doo Day,” and similar events such as “Dre Day” ‒ in memory of another slain citizen, Quordre Wiley ‒ have become Daytona staples. Children and families depend on cultural events for representation and positive motivation. It’s a day where the lower-class locals get to come together and take dirt bikes and ATVs to the streets in remembrance of those killed in gun violence, promoting positivity and unity in our poverty-stricken community. “City officials do not care about the wants and needs of the lower class in Daytona Beach; only the tourist, middle and upper classes,” says Jared Thompson, entrepreneur and community leader. Many respected community citizens engaged in online debates about the situation all day Sunday, Feb. 17. Though many disagreed, it is time to truly step up

and get involved!

When I refused to sign such a document, a headline suddenly appeared in a major newspaper that I was a Palestinian Liberation Organization sympathizer. That meant that no Benjamins should be given to me as a campaign donation, and it meant many of my supporters should back off from supporting me. Mr. Beychok preferred to have my opponent win because I would not pledge my loyalty to anyone. I was a politician who refused to take Benjamins to vote against my conscience. There are others who do the same, but there are also many who will pretend the issue doesn’t matter so long as AIPAC gives them campaign donations. I am absolutely sure of that. Some have even told me so and of their fear of AIPAC. It’s no different from some of our community leaders who take money from groups that are not working in the best interest of our community. I see that frequently, and it’s painful.

Don’t understand it

times as likely to resume tobacco smoking.

pies in helping teens quit e-cigarettes. Meanwhile, on the state level, legislators in Maine are considering a bill that would ban the use of e-cigarettes or vaping on school grounds. In Florida, a House committee has just approved a measure that would ban electronic smoking devices in workplaces.

‘Negative impact’ Monica Webb Hooper and Stephanie K. Kolar, who studied racial differences in e-cigarette use, concluded: “If e-cigarette use truly lowers the chances of cessation, this could have a negative impact on the health of African-American/Black smokers and widen disparities in quitting.” For these reasons, we were glad to see recent efforts at the state and federal level to curb the use of e-cigarettes and battle nicotine addiction. The U.S. Food and Drug Administration has said it will limit sales of many flavored e-cigarettes to bricks-andmortar outlets that require proof of age for purchase or do not admit people under 19. Stricter verification will be required for online sales And the agency held a hearing last month to consider the potential role of drug thera-

Charles W. Cherry II, Esq., Publisher

Opinions expressed on this editorial page are those of the writers, and do not necessarily reflect the editorial stance of the newspaper or the publisher.

CREDO OF THE BLACK PRESS The Black Press believes that Americans can best lead the world away from racism and national antagonism when it accords to every person, regardless of race, color or creed, full human and legal rights. 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.

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What we can do The city offers a free Citizens Academy course Tuesday mornings to educate us on policies, laws, and elected officials. There are also privately-owned properties that are willing to collaborate as well. Use these resources and let’s make sure each and every positive Black event in our community, whether “Doo Day” or my organization’s upcoming second annual Malcolm X Day Community Bash, gets the support, respect and attention they truly deserve. Black events, like Black music and Black lives, still matter!

Rell Black is an award-winning activist, blogger and the founder of Community Healing Project Inc.

With my background in politics, I cannot understand the furor surrounding Congresswoman Ilhan Omar saying it’s about the Benjamins. Maybe some would vote the way they do without a campaign donation, but donors certainly don’t give their money to those perceived to be against their position on issues. Truth is always a defense. I had to stop watching CNN because of what they did to Dr. Marc Lamont Hill who called for justice for Palestinians, and in no way called for harm to Israel. Why should his remarks be called controversial or anti-Semitic? I am convinced that many politicians support issues because of the Benjamins ‒ not because of what they believe is just.

Dr. E. Faye Williams is national chair of the National Congress of Black Women, Inc. Contact her via www.nationalcongressbw.org.

Collaborative help As the surgeon general noted in his advisory: parents, teachers, health professionals, elected officials and community leaders must work together to address the vaping epidemic. Talk to the young people in your life about the risks of vaping. Support community efforts to restrict the use of e-cigarettes, and tell your representatives to enact tough laws aimed at restricting access to nicotine.

Marc Morial is president and CEO of the National Urban League.

Central Florida Communicators Group, LLC, P.O. Box 48857 Tampa, FL 33646, publishes the Daytona Times on Thursdays. Phone: 877-352-4455, toll-free. For all sales inquiries, call 877-352-4455; e-mail sales@flcourier.com. Subscriptions to the print version are $69 per year. Mail check to P.O. Box 48857 Tampa, Fl 33646, or log on to www.daytonatimes.com; click on ‘Subscribe.’

SUBMISSIONS POLICY SEND ALL SUBMISSIONS TO NEWS@DAYTONATIMES.COM Deadline for submitting news and pictures is 5 p.m. the Monday before the Thursday publication date. You may submit articles at any time. However, current events received prior to deadline will be considered before any information that is submitted, without the Publisher’s prior approval, after the deadline. Press releases, letters to the editor, and guest commentaries must be e-mailed to be considered for publication. The Daytona Times reserves the right to edit any submission, and crop any photograph, for style and clarity. Materials will not be returned.


FEBRUARY 21 – FEBRUARY 27, 2019

5 7

BLACK HISTORY DECEMBER 14 - 20, 2006 M AMONTH YOR

“Today, the organization continues to fight for the freedom, justice, equality, educational, social, economic and political quality of all.” Elijah Cummings, Maryland Democratic Congressman

This is one of the properties destroyed during the 1908 race riot in Springfield, Illinois. The NAACP was founded the next year.

Race riot led to founding of NAACP Civil rights organization observes 110th year of freedom fighting BY STACY M. BROWN NNPA NEWSWIRE

The National Association for the Advancement of Colored People (NAACP) was founded 110 years ago after a deadly race riot rocked the city of Springfield, Illinois. “Because of the riots in Springfield, that brought about serious conversations and meetings about starting an organization, a national organization, that would try to address racial issues,” said Nell Clay, Springfield and central Illinois African American History Museum president. The Springfield race riots took place in August 1908.

Lives, property lost Today, the NAACP remains the foremost civil rights organization in the world with an overriding mission: Equality for all. “There were two African Americans in jail, one accused of rape and one accused of murder,” Clay said. “A mob came to the jail to do their own justice by lynching the individuals.” Several lives were lost and property was destroyed during the race riot. But at the time, there had been race riots throughout the nation, according to the local Fox affiliate near Chicago. So why did the Springfield race riots lead to the formation of the NAACP? “Because Springfield was the land of Lincoln – the individual that freed the slaves,” Clay said. “Maybe there was a thought that this was a great place for African Americans to live.”

Founded in 1909 Once the riots were over, discussions began for a necessary organization. “People got together around the country, especially throughout Illinois, and said again enough is enough. You need to meet and form an organization that will deal with race in America because race riots were unacceptable,” said Teresa Haley, president of the Illinois NAACP chapter. Several scholars officially founded the NAACP in New York on Feb. 12, 1909.

Goals, principles Throughout its history, the NAACP has fought to meet the objectives of people of color and have kept to their main goals and principles including: • To ensure the political, educational, social, and economic equality of all citizens • To achieve equality of rights and eliminate race prejudice among the citizens of the United States • To remove all barriers of racial discrimination through democratic processes • To seek enactment and enforcement of federal, state, and local laws securing civil rights

WIKIPEDIA

The National Negro Committee, later known as the National Association for the Advancement of Colored People, held its first conference in New York City.

• To inform the public of the adverse effects of racial discrimination and to seek its elimination • To educate persons as to their constitutional rights and to take all lawful action to secure the exercise thereof, and to take any other lawful action in furtherance of these objectives, consistent with the NAACP’s Articles of Incorporation and this Constitution. During its 110th anniversary observance, the NAACP has recognized its founders. Founding member William Walling authored “The Race War in the North,” an article detailing the Springfield race riot. Founding member W.E.B. Du Bois served as the NAACP director of publicity and research from 1910-1934, and was a member of the board of directors, and founder and editor of the Crisis Magazine, which continues to serve as a source of news and information from an African American perspective. In her years at the NAACP, Rosa Parks worked specifically as a criminal justice and sexual assault investigator. In 1944, she led the investigation into the rape of Recy Taylor. Founding member Ida B. Wells was an investigative journalist and educator. A pioneer in the anti-lynching movement, Wells dedicated much of her life’s work to the cause and published extensive research on the psychological implications of lynching.

Founding member W.E.B. Du Bois served as the NAACP director of publicity and research from 1910-1934. He also founded the Crisis Magazine.

NATIONAL ARCHIVES/TNS

Thurgood Marshall, the NAACP’s iconic legal champion, was named to the Supreme Court by President Lyndon Johnson in June 1967.

Major focus areas Throughout the 1920s and 1930s, the NAACP led the Black civil rights struggle in fighting injustices such as the denial of voting rights, racial violence, discrimination in employment, and segregated public facilities. From 1920 to 1950, the NAACP focused on five major areas: anti-lynching legislation, voter participation, employment, due process under the law, and education, according to the National Museum of African American History and Culture in Washington, D.C. At yearly conventions in different cities around the country, it drew attention to regional needs and interests and encouraged nationwide participation.

Marshall and NAACP Thurgood Marshall grew up in a nurturing African American community in segregated Baltimore. After graduating from all-Black Lincoln University in Pennsylvania, he enrolled in Howard University’s law school. In 1934, he began practicing law in his

The NAACP has marched, protested and worked hard to achieve equality of rights and eliminate race prejudice among the citizens of the United States. hometown and immediately was drawn into the local civil rights movement. In 1938, Marshall took over the leadership of the NAACP legal team from his mentor Charles Hamilton Houston. A year later, he established the NAACP Legal Defense and Education Fund to carry out the organization’s legal campaign. Marshall’s legal skills, his earthy wit, and easy manner made him an effective leader. Soon after graduating from law school, Marshall took the case of Donald Gaines Murray, an African American student seeking admission to the University of Maryland School of Law. This case went to the state Supreme Court and successfully

challenged segregated education in Maryland.

‘Must never forget it’ Speaking at a ceremony to commemorate the recent anniversary of the Brown v. Board of Education, which Marshall and the NAACP argued, legendary U.S. Rep. John Lewis said: “Had there been no May 17, 1954 (the day the Supreme Court ruled in Brown V. Board of Education), I’m not sure there would have been a Little Rock. I’m not sure there would have been a Martin Luther King Jr., or Rosa Parks, had it not been for May 17, 1954. It created an environment for us to push, for us to pull,” Lewis said. “We live in a different country,

a better country, because of what happened here in 1954. And we must never forget it. We must tell the story again, over and over and over,” he said. The NAACP’s role in the Civil Rights Movement was vital, said Maryland Democratic Congressman Elijah Cummings. “Today, the organization continues to fight for the freedom, justice, equality, educational, social, economic and political quality of all,” Cummings said. “This vital work has created justice and opportunity for all of us today and for generations yet unborn.”

Stacy M. Brown is an NNPA Newswire correspondent. She can be followed on Twitter at @ StacyBrownMedia.


R6

7 SPORTS

FEBRUARY 21 – FEBRUARY 27, 2019

Brown looks to turn around Seabreeze High BY ANDREAS BUTLER DAYTONA TIMES

Patrick Brown is the new head football coach at Seabreeze High School. He makes history as the first Black head football coach in the school’s history. Brown takes over a program with a 12-38 record over the past five years, including 1-9 last season. The Sandcrabs last made the playoffs in 2014. Brown was defensive coordinator and assistant head coach at Father Lopez in 2017 and 2018. The Green Wave went 14-6 over that span and made it to the second round of the playoffs in 2018 and a bowl game in 2017. Under Brown, the Lopez defense did the following: In 2017, the team ranked tops defensively in area statistics with four shutouts, had 25 forced turnovers, and seven defensive TDs while holding opponents to 11.5 points per game. In 2018, the Lopez team recorded two shutouts, 29 forced turnovers and four defensive TDs while holding opponents to 10.3 points per game.

‘Trust factor’ The job at Seabreeze is an excellent opportunity. “I’ve been in the area for nine years. Being here and coach-

ing Pop Warner and mentoring kids I see it as a good balance and diversity. I have an underdog mentality. I see us as underdogs. I want to work with the kids and build the program back up,” Brown commented. There is a lot of work to do turn the Sandcrabs back into a winning program, but Brown is up for the challenge. “I believe it’s just the trust factor with the community. We got to get the community to trust in the program again. I have to get the community and kids to trust in a new coach and a new system. I got to get them on board with what me and my coaching staff has in store,” responded Brown.

Pro background About being the school’s first Black head coach, he told the Daytona Times: “I actually think it is good in some ways. Maybe it helps the African-American kids relate to a coach that looks like them. “In the NFL, 70 percent of the players are Black. Maybe it helps them relate in seeing how to get there.” Brown has a wealth of football knowledge having played three years in the Canadian Football League with the Saskatchewan Roughriders (2011, 2012). He al-

Discipline and structure Brown wants to bring discipline and structure. He believes he relates to the players. “I would say my discipline structure may be old school when it relates to that, but I can definitely relate to the players and the game. I want my players to perform. I don’t want them to be scared of me as a coach,” he explained. “I want them to play their best. I don’t think you can do that if you’re nervous and worrying about making mistakes. There is a saying that: Which one are you more afraid of a dog on a leash or one without one? I want my players to have the discipline and structure of playing on a leash but being capable to play the game off a leash.’’

On drawing athletes

Patrick Brown is Seabreeze’s first Black head football coach. so played in the German Football League (GFL) with the Hamburg Blue Devils (2013).

College experience In college, he played on the 2010 Bethune-Cookman Wildcats’ football team that went 10-2 and made it to the second round of the FCS playoffs. That year he had over 30 catches for 300 plus yards. Brown also played for two years at Rutgers (2008-2009). In college, he played both wide re-

ceiver and defensive back. He is hoping that his football experiences and connections to youth football programs help him. He spent two years coaching with the Daytona Beach Buccaneers and one with the Port Orange Hawks’ Pop Warner programs. He said, “I think it’s a start. Some of the kids that I have coached in high school have family members who played Pop Warner who will now be coming to high school. Some of them know my coaching style.”

One challenge is bringing students back to the program. Today there are more relaxed transfer rules that allow kids to go to school out of their zoned school. Even before those rules relaxed, players from neighborhoods in both Ormond Beach and Daytona Beach – which historically had athletes that attended Seabreeze – were lost. Brown noted, “I think it’s just a matter of getting kids to buy into what we are doing. Letting them know how things are different as far as work ethic, off season programing and so on. The biggest thing many of my assistant coaches are involved with the youth programs such as the Bucs, Cowboys and others. We have a good strength and conditioning coach as well. The kids can see that we are taking that next step,” Brown added.

Hamlin dedicates Daytona 500 win to J.D. Gibbs BY EDGAR THOMPSON ORLANDO SENTINEL/TNS

DAYTONA BEACH – Daytona 500 winner Denny Hamlin did it for J.D. After all, J.D. Gibbs had done so much for Hamlin leading up to Sunday evening’s dramatic win. This included giving a brash, promising young driver a shot, along with Gibbs’ car number, two decades ago. “J.D.’s favorite number was 11 when he raced,” said Joe Gibbs, J.D.’s father. “That’s what he had.” J.D. Gibbs, who died tragically last month at age 49, was not nearly the driver Hamlin would become. But few loved racing cars and hanging around the garage more than Gibbs. Gibbs eventually joined forces with his famous father, tapping into the competitive juices, organizational acumen and strategic genius Joe Gibbs used to coach the Washington Redskins to three Super Bowl titles.

Father, son success The elder Gibbs, now 78, found a second act on the asphalt as successful as his Hall of Fame career on the sidelines. J.D. found his calling after playing college football at William & Mary and a short career as a driver. Gibbs was known for his incredible focus as a football coach, often at the expense of all else, including his family and eventually his health. A year prior to his sudden retirement in 1993, Gibbs, a native of North Carolina, joined the world of NASCAR. Father and son shared the success of Joe Gibbs Racing together as adults. “J.D. built our race team, was the guy that ran day-to-day operations for 27 years,” Gibbs said. “He invested his occupational life in our race team.”

Hamlin investment J.D. Gibbs invested as much into Hamlin as any driver. With Gibbs as president, the company captured four Cup championships, with Bobby Labonte in 2000, Tony Stewart in 2002 and 2005 and Kyle Busch in 2015. Hamlin might be the company’s biggest success story because Gibbs Racing was with him from Day 1. “He went up to purchase some late model stuff from Denny and struck up a relationship with Denny, put him in a test, put him in a truck, put him in an Xfinity car at Darlington, and finally he said, ‘We need to sign this guy,’” Joe Gibbs recalled. “And so that started the relationship and everything.” Hamlin, a Tampa native who grew up near Richmond, Virginia, said he spent his first paycheck on

rims for car tires and a plasma TV. “I was in high … That was a hit in my town,” Hamlin exclaimed Sunday. Gibbs countered, “And three years later, he bought a house next to me that was twice as big as my house. So it tells you I get in the wrong end of everything.”

The big win Hamlin ultimately would display his gratitude to the Gibbs family by putting J.D’s signature above his car door and delivering the race team numerous trips to Victory Lane. Hamlin’s second Daytona 500 championship was his 32th win — most among active drivers without a season championship. Sunday’s win may have been the most unexpected, given the race’s many twists and turns and Hamlin’s recent struggles. Three wrecks and two red flag stoppages totaling nearly 40 minutes during the final 10 laps of regulation extended the 200-lap race seven additional laps before Hamlin outlasted Gibbs’ teammates Busch and Erik Jones.

‘Unbelievable night’ The victory was especially sweet following Hamlin’s first winless season since he became a full-time Cup series driver in 2006. Coming a little more than a month after J.D. Gibbs’ death due to a rare a neurological disorder, the win had a storybook feel. “I don’t believe that just happened,” Joe Gibbs said. “I honestly believe it was — I think the Lord looked down on us, and I know J.D. and everybody in my family was emotional. I called home to Pat (his wife since 1996), and I called sponsors that were emotional too. “It was just an unbelievable night, unbelievable crowd. The whole thing was just a special memory for me, and it’s one I’ll never forget. And it was the most important night of my occupational life.”

Hamlin humbled Quite a statement from a man with three Super Bowl rings, four Cup titles and now three Daytona 500 championships. But Gibbs had just two sons and one of them is gone. Hamlin, now 38, was humbled to share such a significant and memorable moment with the patriarch of a family that gave him his start. “It’s just special for me to be able to deliver that to him in a special way,” Hamlin said. “I know he would have been happy with any one of his cars going out there and getting a victory, but obviously one with his son’s name on the door and number is probably a little more special.”

Above: NASCAR driver Denny Hamlin takes the stage, with the Daytona 500 trophy in the background, as he is introduced before the race at the Daytona International Speedway on Feb. 17. JOE BURBANK/ORLANDO SENTINEL/TNS

J.D. Gibbs, left, talks about NASCAR Sprint Cup Series driver Bobby Labonte during a NASCAR Sprint Media Tour stop at Joe Gibbs Racing on Jan. 27, 2011. JEFF SINER/CHARLOTTE OBSERVER/TNS


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