Daytona Times, July 26, 2012, #30

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Daytona Volusia launches website that showcases local art SEE PAGE 3

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EDITORIAL: Bamboozled by financial systems, Blacks struggle to recover PAGE 4

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JULY 26 - AUGUST 1, 2012

YEAR 37 NO. 30

A chance to meet the local candidates

PEOPLE SPEAK

NAACP, Panhellenic Association hosting forum on Tuesday BY JAMES HARPER DAYTONA TIMES harperjames59@yahoo.com

Local candidates running for political office have been invited to participate in an open forum sponsored by the Volusia County-Daytona Beach NAACP to dis-

cuss their platforms as well as issues of importance to the community. Cynthia Slater, NAACP president, said the organization is co-sponsoring a “Meet the Candidates Night’’ with the Daytona Beach Area Alumnae Panhellenic Association. The forum is Tuesday, July 31, beginning at 6 p.m. at the John H. Dickerson Community Center in Daytona Beach. The forum is free and open to the public.

“The forum will give voters the opportunity to meet the candidates and learn about where they stand on issues pertinent to the growth and well-being of their community,” Slater said. Voters go to the polls on Aug. 14 for the primary election.

Hundreds registered Slater said sample ballots as well as a summary and explanation of all amendments will be available for the general public.

The local branch was one of the first organizations in Volusia County to register as a third-party agent and has done ongoing voter registration since last year, according to Slater. “In partnership with the Bethune-Cookman University NAACP Chapter, Allen Chapel AME Church, the Concerned Citizens Organization and local sororities, we have worked tirelessly to register voters and collectively to date have registered almost 1,000 vot-

ers,” Slater continued. “We will be contacting churches to encourage them to get their congregation out to the polls or vote absentee ballot.”

Early voting sites Early voting takes place in Volusia County Saturday, Aug. 4, through Saturday, Aug. 11. Hours for early voting will be 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. There will Please see MEET, Page 2

Daytonans join international conversation about HIV/AIDS BY JAMES HARPER DAYTONA TIMES harperjames59@yahoo.com

WASHINGTON – Daytona Beach residents are among the 20,000 people from around the world gathered at the International AIDS Conference in Washington, D.C. Jeff Allen is one of the founders of the Positive Champions Speakers Bureau, which is made up of people from all walks of life. The bureau’s purpose is to heighten community awareness and increase compassion for people with HIV/AIDS. Half the people living with HIV in America are Black. That was revealed by the Black AIDS Institute this week during the conference. “We in the Positive Champions Speakers Bureau are definitely aware that there is a disproportionate amount of African- Americans that are being diagnosed with HIV,” Allen said. “That is one of the main reasons that we decided to create the speakers bureau. We recognize that stigma is keeping people from being tested. People don’t want people to know they have HIV,” Allen explained.

Joined march Joining Allen in Washington were bureau members and Daytona Beach residents Mary Bennefield, Omar Mayes and Cindy Maldanado. Members make presentations to schools, health care professionals, businesses, civic organizations, detention facilities or wherever they’re asked to bring more understanding to HIV/AIDS and to put an end to the fear and stigma that surround the disease, according to their website. Allen and company were with thousands who marched out-

PHOTOS COURTESY OF POSITIVE CHAMPIONS SPEAKERS BUREAU

Daytona Beach residents Mary Bennefield, Cindy Maldanado and Omar Mayes attended this week’s International AIDS Conference in D.C. side the Walter E. Washington Convention Center on Monday, the second day of the conference. The conference was being held in the United States for the first time in 22 years because the U.S. lifted its travel ban of people infected with HIV. Allen, who has been HIV pos-

itive for 27 years, was glad the ban was lifted. “By not allowing those with HIV to enter the country, it would have not been a true international conference,” he said. “I know that some people were against it, just like they

were against the “don’t ask don’t tell,” just like they were against African-Americans having equal rights, just like they were against women’s right to vote,” Allen remarked. “If we just stood by and continued the way we always do business, we would probably

Jeff Allen of Daytona said it was important for him and other members of the Positive Champions Speakers Bureau to be at the conference “to show our officials in Washington that we are a force to be reckoned with, that we have determination, and that our voices are powerful and our vote is strong.” still have slavery within this country,” he elaborated.

Tired of injustice Had the ban not been lifted, the message would have been sent worldwide “that the U.S. Please see HIV/AIDS, Page 2

Community says farewell to longtime nurse Marguerite Laws Jordan BY ANDREAS BUTLER DAYTONAT TIMES butleramj@yahoo.com

Earlier this month, the Daytona Beach community said goodbye to Marguerite C’Linda Laws Jordan. She died June 21 at Halifax Health Medical Center in Daytona Beach at age 53. She was called “Rita’’ by some and “Ree Ree’’ by many. Her funeral service was held July 3 at Allen Chapel AME Church in Daytona Beach and she was laid to rest at Greenwood Cemetery. “Marguerite was a very resilient, smart and gifted person. She faced life’s challenges with a smile and laughter,” said her

brother, the Rev. Lorenzo Laws, who presided over her funeral service. She was a nurse who spent time working at Halifax Hospital and Evergreen Sales and Marketing in Daytona. “Marguerite had a nurMarguerite turing mentality, which Laws Jordan came from her passion as a career nurse,” her brother stated. She enjoyed crocheting and word puzzles but had a heart for cooking. She also was known as the “Crab Cake Lady of Soul City’ for cooking her crab cakes, which the Garden Apartments residents in Daytona came to love.

“Her recipe for life was to smile,” added Rev. Laws.

Former Marine attended Daytona schools She also served her country for three years in the United States Marine Corps. Shortly after being honorably discharged from the Marine Corps, she met and later married Anthony Jordan Sr. The Daytona native is a Spruce Creek High graduate and was crowned the first Black “Miss Spruce Creek’’ in 1976. In addition, she attended Turie T. Small and Longstreet elementary schools along with Seabreeze Junior High. After high school, she earned a degree

in nursing from Bethune-Cookman College in just three years. She was among some of the first students to be pinned after the school started its nursing program. While at Bethune-Cookman, she also was a cheerleader. In addition, she earned an associates degree in Medical Coding from Sandersville Technical College in Georgia. She was a member of Shady Grove Baptist Church in Daytona Beach. Marguerite Laws Jordan is survived by two sons, Lorenzo Laws and Adrian Jordan, both of Daytona Beach; daughter Tiffany White of Sandersville, Ga.; and 12 grandchildren.

FOCUS

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JULY 26 - AUGUST 1, 2012

Aug. 4 health clinic to focus on breast, colorectal cancers BY JAMES HARPER DAYTONATIMES harperjames59@yahoo.com

A free clinic for residents to learn about breast and colorectal cancers will take place Saturday, Aug. 4, in South Daytona at 2089 South Ridgewood Ave. The clinic is open to men and women who are 40 years of age and older. Persons who qualify to receive free help are those who lack insurance or have insurance that only covers hospital care and meet certain income guidelines. Services available include clin-

HIV/AIDS from Page 1 does not care about international issues, and conflict between our nation and others would continue.� Allen said it was important for him and other members of his group to be at the conference “to show our officials in Washington that we are a force to be reckoned with, that we have determination and that our voices are powerful and our vote is strong.� “We are tired of the poor, disenfranchised and disabled persons being taken advantage of, being unfairly treated as a citizen, and furthering the disparities from within our communities even more. White, African-American, Hispanic, Pan-Asian/Asian, Caribbean, Native Americans, all communities banded together with one common theme: We can end AIDS,� Allen added.

Fear still exists Allen says there still is a lot of fear and stigma associated with HIV, making it really difficult for people to get tested. He explained that many don’t want to talk about HIV/AIDS for fear of being perceived as being gay or gay tolerant.

ical exams; nutrition assessment and weight control; referrals for screenings and diagnostic testing, as needed; follow up results and consultation; and vouchers for transportation assistance and other reasonable barriers.

Two sessions The clinic is being sponsored by Circle of Health Family Practice, VITAS Innovative Hospice Care, Greater Friendship Baptist Church and the Rev. John T. Long III. There will be two sessions on Aug. 4 – at 9 a.m. to noon and 1 p.m. to 5 p.m.

The clinic will include a physical exam and nutrition counseling. Transportation for those in need is available. There are limited seats and those interested in participating should call Telma Marques at 386-676-7655 to apply or e-mail her at tmarques@coccp.org There are disparities when it comes to Blacks and Whites being diagnosed and living with these cancers. “Many factors, from poor nutrition to vitamin deficiencies, have contributed to the present state of Black’s health,� says Marques, a spokesman for Circles of Care

Community Projects. “Fighting cancer is always a challenge especially for low-income, underserved populations,� she added.

Impact on Blacks Research shows that education, prevention, and early detection of breast and colorectal cancer saves lives, according to a press release issued by Circles of Care Community Projects, which is based out of Palm Coast. “Blacks are disproportionately impacted by breast and colorectal cancer and are more likely to be diagnosed at a later stage

of cancer than Whites, Marques said. She noted breast cancer is the second most common cancer for Black women and they are less likely to be diagnosed with early-stage breast cancer. Colorectal cancer is the second and third most common cancer among Hispanics and Blacks. Circles of Care Community Projects is a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization providing comprehensive services to adults, children, and families; development of community projects; and training and technical support to professionals and providers.

“The African-American community is not different in that respect. Men don’t want to be perceived as being homosexual. We have long been making the statements that this is no longer a gay disease. But the stigma of how it all started is still there. The associations of being gay are still very much present,� Allen continued.

Education needed Allen revealed that almost half of the people that participate in a support group he is a member of are heterosexual. “If this group represents the population of our area, then obviously the stigma created by the homosexual aspect is unfounded,� he noted. Allen says one of his biggest concerns is young people growing up now who are not taking HIV/AIDS seriously. “We need to teach HIV education within our public school systems, beyond abstinence. The younger generation is seeing people living longer with HIV and therefore don’t see it as big a threat as it was in 1981 and shortly there after,’’ he explained. “I have been talking to my nephews about HIV since they were 9 years old or so.’’ For more information about the Positive Champions Speakers Bureau, visit www.daytonaspeakersbureau.com.

PHOTO COURTESY OF POSITIVE CHAMPIONS SPEAKERS BUREAU

Area residents were part of Sunday’s AIDS Healthcare Foundation “Keep the Promise on HIV/ AIDS� rally and march, which was prior to the opening ceremonies of the XIX International AIDS Conference.

FILE PHOTO

Residents participate in a voter registration workshop organized by the local NAACP.

MEET from Page 1 be no early voting on the Sunday before the primary date. Early voting locations are: Department of Elections, Historic Courthouse, 125 W. New York Ave., DeLand; Deltona Regional Library, 2150 Eustace Ave., Deltona; Volusia County Library Center at City Island, 105 E. Magnolia Ave., Daytona Beach: Ormond Beach Regional Library, 30 S. Beach St., Ormond Beach; and the New Smyrna Beach Regional Library, 1001 S. Dixie Freeway, New

Smyrna Beach. Early voting has been cut down by Florida legislators from 10 days to eight.

Voter lawsuits Slater said there are lawsuits still pending regarding the laws passed by the Legislature last year (on early voting) and the organization is awaiting rulings. She added that the NAACP, including civil rights and voting rights organizations Project Vote and the Lawyers Committee for Civil Rights Under Law, have filed a brief against the state arguing that Florida is out of compliance under Section 7 of

the National Voter Registration Act of 1993 (NVRA). Section 7 of the NVRA requires state public assistance agencies providing services such as the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP), Temporary Assistance to Needy Families (TANF) and Medicaid to provide voter registration services to their clients. “The data that Florida has submitted to the U.S. Election Assistance Commission indicate an overall lack of compliance with Section 7 of the NVRA,� explained Slater. For more information, contact the NAACP office at 386-255-3736.

A message from the NBA and its players

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JULY 26 - AUGUST 1, 2012

COMMUNITY NEWS

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Ormond student recognized by prestigious honor society Kathleen T. Owens’ outstanding achievement in academics has earned her membership in the National Society of Collegiate Scholars (NSCS), a prestigious honor society headquartered in the District of Columbia. The Ormond Beach resident, on the Dean’s List, is a student at Kaplan University located in Des Moines, Iowa. Owens is the daughter of former Palm Coast resident Catherine “Cathy� Darby, once active at the First Church, the African American Cultural Society and with the Flagler County Democrats.

About the society Owens has yielded a lifetime ambition of studying for a Bachelor of Arts degree to become a paralegal. She’s had the support team of family and has excelled to meet her goals.

Palm Coast

Community news

By Jeroline D. Mccarthy | Daytona Times The NSCS membership comprises the top 10 percent of students at their colleges and having a 3.4 grade point-average or better on a 4.0 scale. The National Society of Collegiate Scholars dispatched a media release, pinpointing what’s in store for Owens: “NSCS is more than just a symbol of academic achievement. Membership gives students access to a number of amazing benefits including career and networking resources, scholarships, travel, and service projects - both on campus and in the com-

Food summits to be held Aug. 1 Any person, group, ministry or agency interested in helping to fight hunger is invited to attend a local food summit on Aug. 1. The Community Foundation of East Central Florida and a coalition of local agencies are working together to bring groups and resources together to maximize the ability to provide food for families in need. One in six people, which includes one in five children in Volusia Couhnty, are facing hunger. Food is a key ingredient in preventing homelessness among those living on very limited resources. The foundation hopes to bring together groups who distribute food with others concerned about this issue in an effort to expand everyone’s capacity for food assistance. There will be two summits. One will be held at 10 a.m. on Aug. 1 at the Volusia County Health Department, 845 Holsonback Drive, Daytona Beach. The other is scheduled for 2 p.m. at the DeLand Conference Center, 1301 W. International Drive. A Flagler County summit is planned for early in 2013. For more information and registration, send an email to info@cfecf.org or peoplematter2god@cfl. rr.com.

munity,� says Stephen E. Loflin, NSCS Founder and Chief Executive Officer. NSCS is a member of the Association of College Honor Societies and the nation’s only interdisciplinary honors organization for first- and second-year college students. Membership is by invitation only, based on grade-point average and class standing. NSCS has more than 850,000 lifetime members and 300 chapters in all 50 states, the District of Columbia and Puerto Rico. For more information about the National Society

Catherine Darby

Kathleen T. Owens

of Collegiate Scholars, call 202-265-9000, or visit the NSCS website at: nscs.org.

‘The Melting Pots’ brewing for August Chairman Barbara Solomon has announced that the African American Cultural Society is gearing up for the biennial event of Ashe’ VII. Solomon’s planning a gig orchestrating the presentations of two fantastic days. They’ll link up with the Flagler County NAACP on Aug. 19, 4 p.m., for “The Melting Pots.� The show

Web portal empowers students to make informed decisions SPECIAL TO THE DAYTONA TIMES

Making smart decisions about postsecondary options just got easier with a new tool developed by the Florida Department of Education. The new Smart College Choices web portal allows prospective and current students to view graduation rates, employment statistics and earnings data for graduates of the 28 Florida College System institutions and Florida Public School District Career Centers. “Florida’s future depends on a well-trained workforce

and this tool will allow Floridians to spend their time and money wisely when deciding on a career path,� said Florida College System Chancellor Randy Hanna. “We are proud of the robust data we have on learning outcomes and this portal shares that data with students so that they can use it to secure their future.� The Smart College Choices web portal lets students view data on how much they can expect to earn from a degree or certificate program, the percentage of graduates who secured jobs in Florida, and how many

will star the young people enrolled in the Summer Internship Program (SIP). Tickets for this event are $15 and $5 for children and students. Part 2 will be a visual arts exhibition that will take place 10 a.m. to 6 p.m., on Sept. 15. Both audiences will gather at the African American Cultural Society, 4422 U. S. 1 North in Palm Coast. The art show is free. Additionally, your support is needed now for ads in the Ashe’ journal. A full-page ad (7x8 1/2) is $100; a half page (7x4 1/2), $50; quarter page (3 1/2 x 4 1/2), $25; business card, $15; and a patron’s “name only� ad, $10. Please include an extra $5 for printing your ad in color. Also include your name on the back of each picture that’s submitted. Both the ad and check must be sent to the Africompleted the program.

Valuable tool This information is vital to making smart decisions about college and will help reduce the number of students who default on loans or are saddled by student loan debt. “The new web portal is a valuable tool that will help students make the best decisions about their future postsecondary and career plans,� said Commissioner of Education Gerard Robinson. “Florida is a national leader in developing a longitudinal data system and this is an excellent way for students to utilize the information so they can prepare for success in the workplace.� The web portal is the first step in implementing legislation sponsored by incoming Senate President Don

can American Cultural Society’s mailing address at P. O. Box 350607, Palm Coast, FL 32135, Attention: Ashe’ VII. If you have questions, call the African American Cultural Society at 386447-7030. rrr As always, remember our prayers for the sick, afflicted and bereaved.

Happy Birthday to You! Birthday wishes to: Birthday wishes to Diana McKie Robinson, July 26; Little Miss McKenzie Robinson, Rosa McKie, June Bethel, July 27; John Lucas and my brother Ronald Coaxum in the Bronx, July 29; the Rev. Cheryl Daniels, July 30; Mary Hinds, Annette Preston, July 31. Gaetz. During the 2012 legislative session, Gaetz said his highest priority was to “lash education to economic development in Florida.� This web portal is designed for students to see the direct connection between higher education and job placement. Florida has a long history of collecting a multitude of data on its public education system and is one of the nation’s pioneers in collecting student-level data. The portal uses extensive data from the Florida Education and Training Placement Information Program and makes it more user friendly. Florida’s data on outcomes is a model for the country and can help match job market demands with the supply of skilled workers. To use the new web tool, visit Smart College Choices at fldoe.org.

EDITORIAL

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JULY 26 - AUGUST 1, 2012

Bamboozled by financial systems, Blacks struggle to recover Suddenly, it dawns on you that you lost your home, your life savings and your credit rating tanked not by accident, but by design of predatory lenders, vultures that circled Black communities looking for prey and you – a highly-educated, middle-class Black woman – fit the profile. I am among those in that profile of Black women who played by the rules that were passed down for generations through our families. We graduated from college with advanced degrees; we sidestepped instant spending gratification for prudent savings and invested in real estate. We paid our bills early to keep our credit scores above 700. But now at advanced ages, because of the subprime housing implosion instead of enjoying the fruit of our labor, our finances are in shambles and we are forced to find ways to start all over again.

Stalked, singled out Data show that people of color and their communities were stalked, singled out by those who are now profiting over their loss by buying up properties cheap and renting them out at inflated prices. Hit hard by high unemployment, foreclosures, lack of cash and credit, African-Americans are suffering from more than an economic crisis. It is also a betrayal – a psychological meltdown and a cultural implosion resulting from being bamboozled by financial systems they thought were trustworthy. Some like Carolyn Holbrook, 67, of Minneapolis admits she is in therapy to cope with her grieving over the townhouse she lost two years ago. “It is more than just losing a house; it is like losing a part of yourself, like a part of you died. My home was where my children and grandchildren came.” Dr. Avis Jones-DeWeever, execu-

REV. BARBARA REYNOLDS TRICEEDNEYWIRE.COM

at her job at Howard University. She asked her lending institution to tack on a couple of months’ payment to the back of the loan. They did so – but then raised the mortgage $300. “That was when I learned I had a sub-prime mortgage.” Kaufman said when she lived in Fairfax, she asked her bank if she could be 15 days late. “They cordially gave me three months of payments to tack on the end without my asking for it. So in a White, highly educated county, where I only put 10 percent down on a house, I received in excess of what I needed. But in a predominately Black county where I put 50 percent down, my mortgage payment was not only raised, but I was reported late each month to the credit bureau, which damaged my credit. Then the bank suspended the ‘tack-on,’ refused to work with me and I was pushed out of the home.”

tive director of the National Council of Negro Women, says, “We are looking at intentional draining of Black wealth that has set us back generations. Driven by the housing crisis, Black wealth has dropped 52 percent in four years during the recession. That is the largest loss of Black wealth since Reconstruction following the Civil War – a huge tragedy.” Looking at the status of Black women, Dr. DeWeever analyzed federal data in the Home Mortgage Disclosure Act. “It showed that middle-to upper-income African-American women in 80 percent of the 100 cities surveyed were most likely to receive a high cost subprime loan than other groups. Our own survey found that often Black women were giv- ‘Personal failure’ With savings drained from tryen subprime loans when they could have qualified for regular, ing to meet unreasonable housing payments, credit shot, the family’s fixed rate loans,” she said. income cut, the Kaufmans now live with friends. For the first time No more ownership Statistics, however, can’t begin in decades, she is now a tenant, into show the emotional burdens stead of a homeowner. “I have to admit I went through of those, such as Sylvia McDonald-Kaufman, an attorney with a a period of grief, feelings of permaster’s degree in divinity, who sonal failure, because my family saw her dream of home owner- has always been landowners. But ship crudely snatched away. In I came to myself and said, ‘Enough 2004, Kaufman moved from Fair- of that.’ I have a value system based fax, Va. to Prince George’s Coun- on faith in God. My outlook for the ty, Md. She put down 50 percent future will always be positive.” on a $405,000 home in Fort WashDr. Barbara Reynolds is a lecington in order to pay off the mortgage quickly and put some money turer at universities and seminaries, an author of six books, away from retirement. Shortly after the move, she re- and a book coach. Click on this ceived a reduction in pay after a story at www.daytonatimes. transfer between departments com to write your own response.

Big Republican lies about small businesses Two things always happen when there is a debate about whether to extend George W. Bush’s tax cuts. First, Republicans drag out the tired and misleading argument that any effort to return the tax rate to the pre-2001 levels amounts to “a job-killing tax hike.” Second, the corporate media fails to cite evidence that the popular GOP talking point is a lie. President Obama has reignited the debate by proposing yet again that we return to the pre-Bush tax rates. Individuals earning up to $200,000 and couples making $250,000 would be exempt from returning to the higher rate. If implemented, only the top 2 percent of taxpayers would see a tax increase.

Protecting the wealthy

GEORGE E. CURRY NNPA COLUMNIST

stated, “The corporate media’s bias toward giving credence to official claims from both political parties means you have to treat that question of facts as a matter of opinion – which, of course, is a problem, if you think that separating fact from misinformation is a key part of a journalist’s job.” FAIR added, “And the failure to challenge Republican distortions gives them no reason to stop making them…This is especially true when media don’t tell the public that the claim is almost entirely bogus.” FAIR cited examples in USA Today, the Washington Post and the Los Angeles Times daily newspapers. Media Matters, another media watchdog group, pointed out that Fox News makes a habit of letting hosts and guests impart inaccurate information about the plan to let the Bush tax cuts expire on the richest 2 percent of Americans.

Republicans are opposing Obama’s proposal because they are doing what they always do best – protect the wealthy. But instead of acknowledging the truth, they prefer to use the disguise that they are acting on behalf of small business owners, although we know their main interest is protecting big business. There’s a reason the GOP takes this approach. As the Los Angeles Times reported, “Polls also show that Republicans do better when they frame upper-income tax in- Not all own businesses creases as a threat to small busiAccording to the Congressional nesses, a group that voters tend to Budget Office, the two large tax like.” cuts under George W. Bush resulted in a loss of $1.5 trillion in fedMedia is silent eral revenue. Obama agreed to a Fairness & Accuracy in Report- deal with Republicans to extend ing, the media watchdog group, them until the end of this year,

which will bring the total to $2.8 trillion. Now he’s proposing another, more limited extension. If the Bush tax rates are allowed to expire, the top two income brackets will rise from the current levels of 33 percent and 35 percent to 36 and 39.6 percent. Approximately 36 million taxpayers report business income on their 1040s, the Tax Policy Center found. And not all of them own small businesses – some receive income from side jobs or from rental property. “Only about 900,000, or 2.5 percent, would pay higher rates if the Bush tax cuts were allowed to expire for those in the top brackets,” the center found. In addition to citing that study, Media Matters said, “And according to PolitiFact, the Joint Committee on Taxation (JCT) has projected that in 2011, ‘Only 3 percent of all taxpayers who reported having positive business income will see their taxes go up under the proposed Democratic initiative’ of letting the Bush tax cuts for the wealthy expire.” In its report on the small business smokescreen, FAIR summed it up correctly in its headline: “Small Business Baloney.”

George E. Curry, former editor-in-chief of Emerge magazine, is editor-in-chief of the National Newspaper Publishers Association News Service. Click on this story at www.daytonatimes.com to write your own response.

VISUAL VIEWPOINT: THE PENN STATE SCANDAL

BOB ENGLEHART, THE HARTFORD COURANT

Thousands file consumer complaints with CFPB As we move toward the second anniversary of President Obama signing the Dodd-Frank financial reform law, more than 45,000 people have filed complaints with the newly created Consumer Financial Protection Bureau. In one case, a 77-year old Army veteran and retired businessman living in Georgia was certain he had paid off his mortgage, but his mortgage servicer insisted he still owed money. The man was blind and had trouble finding paperwork that proved he owned his home was free and clear. After CFPB interceded, the bank agreed that the mortgage was fully repaid in 2007, then sent the borrower a $30,000 check. In another complaint, CFPB helped a 31-year old Florida waiter reduce his monthly student loan repayments. The young man’s dream of becoming an artist led to a decision to enroll in a for-profit college, where he sunk $110,000 into debt while earning an associate’s degree. He was unable to find work in his chosen field and began paying $700 a month to a private student loan lender. By the time his federal student loan payments were added, he could barely manage to make ends meet after paying $1,100 in total loan costs. When the private loan company refused to adjust payments, the young man contacted CFPB. They determined that he was eligible for a reduced payment program that cut his monthly payment to only $407 monthly for 12 months. He is still working out a plan to reduce federal loan payments. There are even more successful stories of how consumers working with the CFPB were better able to manage financial debt. From July 21, 2011 through June 1, 2012, 45,630 consumers contacted the CFPB. Mortgage issues ranked highest (19,250 complaints); followed by credit cards (16,840); bank products and services (6,490); and private student loans (1,270). Companies contacted by CFPB are also responding – responses have been received on approximately 33,000 complaints. CFPB accepts complaints via its website, by telephone, mail, e-mail and fax. Consumers opting to phone use a toll-free, U.S.-based call center that offers assistance in 187 languages, accommodating hearing and speech-impaired callers. With information in hand, CF-

CHARLENE CROWELL NNPA FINANCIAL WRITER

PB then determines if the complaint falls within the bureau’s enforcement authority. Once that basic threshold is met, affected companies are contacted for review and reply. While the complaint is in progress, consumers can log onto a secure portal or call the toll-free number to receive status updates, provide additional information and review responses submitted by companies. CFPB has also gained further consumer insights through written comments on a range of topics. For example, in response to a larger than expected attendance at a January 2012 payday lending public hearing in Birmingham, Ala., CFPB offered a comment period for persons and organizations either unable to attend or speak. By the time the comment period closed, 620 comments were filed. The majority of the comments received spoke directly to consumer needs and concerns, some citing CRL research. Speaking on behalf of the Leadership Conference on Civil and Human Rights, Wade Henderson and Nancy Zirkin wrote in part, “Regardless of the precise source of payday loans, their effects are the same. They come with triple digit interest rates. Communities and consumers are targeted, rather than served. And according to the Center for Responsible Lending, each year more than $4.2 billion of otherwise valued and disposable income are lost to the accompanying predatory fees.” If you or someone you know will comment or make an online complaint, visit http://www. consumerfinance.gov/. Calls are accepted from 8:00am – 8:00pm Monday through Friday at (855) 411-2372.

Charlene Crowell is the Communications Manager for State Policy & Outreach with the Center for Responsible Lending. Click on this story at www.daytonatimes.com to write your own response.

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JULY 26 - AUGUST 1, 2012

COMMUNITY NEWS

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Volusia County launches Art in Public Places website Volusia County has launched a new website that showcases more than 200 pieces of art purchased through the Art in Public Places program in the last 22 years. The art, which ranges from monumental murals and bronze sculptures to classical oil paintings, is on display in 16 public buildings and outdoor areas. It can now be viewed online at www.volusia.org/art, which includes detailed images and information about the artists. To see the art, visit the Ocean Center, where the collection incorporates the theme of sun, surf, sand and speed. Artwork includes oil and acrylic paintings, wood and bronze sculptures, clay vessels, and suspended diachronic glass and aluminum sculptures.

Largest collection With 56 pieces, the Volusia County Courthouse in downtown DeLand has the largest Art in Public Places collection in Volusia Coun-

This cold cast bronze relief entitled Music of the Spheres, 1998, was created by Brian Owens of Deltona. ty. A block away, the Historic Courthouse has 27 pieces of public art and the new Chess Park features a large outdoor mural. The Deltona Regional Library has the newest collection, which is incorporated into bookcase ends, murals and the children’s desk. Other Volusia County public libraries displaying

Community Calendar To list your event FREE, e-mail us at news@daytonatimes.com. No phone calls or faxes, please. Events are listed on a space-available basis, and in the sole discretion of the Daytona Times staff. For guaranteed placement, contact Lynnette Garcia, lgarcia@flcourier.org, phone 954-882-2946, for ad rates.

Compiled by the Daytona Times Ice cream event to help sick kids Daytona Lagoon will be serving ice cream and toppings for donations on Aug. 11 from noon to two during an “Ice Cream Breakfast,” annual campaign raising funds and awareness for Give Kids the World. The cost of the event is $2 and $5 donations for a scoop. Location: 601 Earl St. More information: Contact Trish Mucciolo at trish@daytonafunparks.com. Register for dance, mentoring program Angels of Praise Creative Arts will be starting its back-to-school 2012-2013

Creative Arts and More Christian Dance Arts Program and Mentoring of Arts. A program showcasing the previous year’s talents will be held July 20 at 5 p.m. at the Calvary Christian Center Fellowship Hall with an opportunity to register for the upcoming session. Late registration will also be held on July 26-27. More information: 386-898-3366 or email i.watson@yahoo.com. Free workshop on Alzheimer’s Learn 10 strategies that may surprise you and five strategies that may protect your children and grandchildren at a free informational

pieces purchased through the Art in Public Places program include the DeBary Public Library, 200 N. Charles Blvd., DeBary; John H. Dickerson Heritage Library, 411 S. Keech St., Daytona Beach; New Smyrna Beach Regional Library, 1001 S. Dixie Freeway, New Smyrna Beach; and the Port Orange Regional Library, 1005 City

Center Circle, Port Orange. Public art also can be viewed at the Agricultural Center, 3100 E. New York Ave., DeLand; Daytona Beach International Airport, 700 Catalina Drive, Daytona Beach; Lifeguard Headquarters and Administration Center, 515 S. Atlantic Ave., Daytona Beach; Marine Science Center, 100 Lighthouse Drive, Ponce

workshop on Alzheimer’s disease with guest speaker Dr. Diane B. Tellier, The event will be held Aug. 21 at 5:30 p.m. at the Port Orange Regional Library auditorium, 1005 City Center Circle. Reserve your space and request more information at 386-267-1204.

office by July 25. More information: 386-740-5160.

Signup continues for Citizens Academy Applications are being accepted for Volusia County’s Citizens Academy, a handson awareness program designed to educate citizens about county government operations. Classes will be held from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. Aug. 21 through Oct. 30. The final class is scheduled Nov. 12. There is no charge for the program, but applicants are asked to commit to attending all 12 classes. Applications are available at www.volusia.org/citizensacademy and must be turned in to the county manager’s

Shiloh to host ‘Morning Glory’ The “Morning Glory” 1,000 women in white in prayer will be held at Shiloh Missionary Baptist Church on July 28 from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. at 540 Dr. Martin Luther King Blvd. More information: www.droministries.com. Tutoring help available Partnering with St. James Academy, Elect Ladies Mentoring is offering tutoring services, school supplies, study spaces and encouragement for students 17 and up seeking a high school diploma. More information: 386-258-7199 or Electladiesmin@aol.com. Workshop on overcoming limitations A discussion on how to

Inlet; Ocean Walk Village, North Atlantic Avenue, Daytona Beach; Thomas C. Kelly Administration Center, 123 W. Indiana Ave., DeLand; and the Votran Transfer Plaza, 207 Dr. Mary McLeod Bethune Blvd., Daytona Beach. The Art in Public Places program, approved by the Volusia County Council in 1990, sets aside 0.5 to

1 percent of the construction of all new, expanded or renovated publically accessible county buildings for acquisition of artwork for permanent display. For more information, contact Volusia County Cultural Coordinator Mike Fincher at 386-736-5963, ext. 15872, or mfincher@ co.volusia.fl.us.

United Way launches ReadingPals program Through the Barnett Early Literacy Grant, The Children’s Movement of Florida and 10 United Way sites throughout the state are in the process of launching a three-year initiative focused on engaging, training, and deploying volunteer “ReadingPals” in 10 Florida regions to increase the number of students who are reading at grade level by the end of the third grade. Volunteers will be trained in the SkillsBased Educational Experiences Delivery Sys-

overcome limitations in order to achieve the impossible will be hosted by Elect Ladies Ministry, Inc. titled “From ESE to PHD,” on Aug. 4. Registration and a continental breakfast begins at

tems (SEEDS) curriculum. Each volunteer will be required to spend at least two 30-minute sessions per week (for a minimum of 25 weeks) with one to three children. Volunteers will be reading a book out loud, guiding the children through literacy activities, and general conversations about the book. More information: Diane Olsen: dolsen@ unitedwayvfc.org, 386366-9053 or http://bit. ly/readingpals .

10:30 a.m. followed by the workshop from 11 a.m. 12:30 p.m. at Halifax Medical Center; France Tower Classroom E. Cost: $5. More information: 386-258-7199.

4 Blues acts to perform Sept. 2 on the beach A free Blues on the Beach event is scheduled Sept. 2 in Daytona Beach. Daytona Blues Festival founder Dominic Benecasa is calling the one-day show “a kind of mini-Blues Festival, an opportunity for local music fans to be treated to four outstanding blues acts just a month before the big show comes to town. Four acts from previous Daytona Blues Festivals are scheduled to perform on the Daytona Bandshell stage on Sept. 2 beginning at 3 p.m. This year’s annual Blues Festival takes place Oct. 5-7. Performers will include the Nouveaux Honkies, a violin, guitar, bass and drum Blues quartet; Ben Prestage, who went from a street performer on Memphis’ historic Beale Street to a favorite on the nation-

Ben Prestage mixes Mississippi country blues with his own Florida Swamp Blues. He went from a street performer on Memphis’ historic Beale Street to a favorite on the national Blues circuit. al Blues circuit; and the Pit Bull of Blues band, which won an International Blues Competition in Orlando. David Shelley and Bluestone is a South Floridabased Blues band that also will be part of Blues on the Beach. The event is free, but donations will assist the Halifax Health Neonatal Intensive Care Unit, which supports women’s and children’s health issues, providing services for newborns who require inten-

sive care due to prematurity or illnesses diagnosed around the time of delivery. Donations also will go to Camp Boggy Creek, one of 12 camps that help children with life-threatening or chronic illnesses experience a real camp experience with medical support on site. Tickets to the October blues festival go on sale Aug. 2. For more information, visit annualdaytonabluesfestival.com.

Port Orange to host budget workshop Saturday The Port Orange City Council will hold a budget workshop on Saturday, July 28, to finalize the city’s fiscal year 2012-2013 budget. The community is invited to attend this workshop that begins at 8:30 a.m. and is scheduled at the Lakeside Community Center, 1999 City Center Circle. At this workshop, the city council will review the current budget proposal and discuss the millage

rate. The council also will review the general fund, golf course fund, water and sewer funds, solid waste fund, drainage utility and internal service funds. The first public hearing is scheduled for Sept. 4, where the budget ordinance and the millage rate resolution will be tentatively adopted. At the second and final public hearing set for Sept 18, the city council will adopt the final budget

ordinance and millage rate resolution. Both of the September public hearings are subject to change and will be held in the council chambers at City Hall, 1000 City Center Circle. Questions about the workshop, public hearings or the budget process? Call Port Orange’s finance department at 386-506-5700.

Who would have thought? Alfred L. Cralle did in 1897. The Ice Cream Scoop, developed by Alfred Cralle, is just one of the many life-changing innovations that came from the mind of an African American. We must do all we can to support minority education today, so we don’t miss out on the next big idea tomorrow. To find out more about African American innovators and to support the United Negro College Fund, visit us at uncf.org or call 1-800-332-UNCF. A mind is a terrible thing to waste.

©2008 UNCF

CLASSIFIEDS

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JULY 26 - AUGUST 1, 2012

In Loving Memory, Glenn Barnes Athletic Scholarship Fund In lieu of flowers, the family has established an athletic scholarship fund for students. Please make checks payable to Mainland High School and write Glenn Barnes Athletic Scholarship Fund in the memo line. Mail all donations to Francene Barnes, P. O. Box 730491, Ormond Beach, FL 32173-0491.

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JULY 26 - AUGUST 1, 2012

SPORTS

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MARK ZIBERT/COURTESY OF PUMA/MCT

Sprinter Usain Bolt models one of the Jamaican Olympic team’s opening ceremony uniforms, designed by Cedella Marley for Puma. The Cedella Marley for Puma collection will send the men on Jamaica’s Olympic team into the 2102 London Olympics opening ceremony clad in a lightweight, short-sleeve button-front shirts in army green with black accents at the shoulders, a black skinny tie and an embroidered Jamaican flag patch on the right breast.

Apps, social media to transform Olympic viewing BY MICHELLE MALTAIS LOS ANGELES TIMES (MCT)

LOS ANGELES - Rewind four years to the Summer Olympics in Beijing, and you’ll understand how this year’s marquee sporting event will be unlike anything ever before. Back then, there was no such thing as an iPad, smartphones were just starting to roll out and Twitter had less than a million users. Fast-forward to the Olympics in London, where for the first time every event will be streamed live, athletes will be able to tweet every little thing they do, and Facebook users will be able to instantly debate a botched call. It will be the most connected sporting event of all time. So how do fans keep up with it all? Here’s a guide to the parade of mobile applications to stay on top of the Olympics 24/7 no matter where you are.

Mobile apps available for download To start, the two official apps of the London 2012 Games are available free on several devices at http://www.london2012.com/ mobileapps/. The Join In app for iPhone, Android and BlackBerry phones lets you connect with everything that’s going on in and around the Olympics with maps, schedules and guides, plus information on cash machine locations, ticketing issues, wheelchair access and

more. You can also follow the torch as it wends its way to the Olympic Stadium. It requires either a Wi-Fi or cellular connection to download content from the Internet. The Results app for iPhone, Android, Windows and BlackBerry offers news, schedules, medal tables and athlete profiles across all Olympic and Paralympic sports. Users can also follow specific countries for customized updates. NBC, the exclusive broadcaster of the Games in the U.S., recently released a couple of free apps for Apple and some Android phones. One app will stream every second of sweat and skill, and you can access it if you are a payTV subscriber with a package that includes CNBC and MSNBC. The other will offer highlights _ no pay TV subscription required. Another NBC app for iPhones, Universal Sports Network, offers coverage of Olympic sports beyond the few weeks of spotlighted competition, with sortable video highlights from “the world of Olympic sports.� They are available for download at http:// www.nbcolympics.com/on-thego/. If you plan to watch a lot of streaming video, keep an eye on your data usage _ particularly if there’s a cap. The overage fee can get hefty for some wireless carriers.

NHAT V. MEYER/SAN JOSE MERCURY NEWS/MCT

Gabrielle Douglas, left, and Alexandra Raisman cry after being announced for the U.S. Women’s gymnastics team after the final round of the 2012 U.S. Olympic gymnastics team trials at HP Pavilion in San Jose, Calif., on July 1.

Social media integrated into experience We can probably expect NBC’s coverage to be tinged with red, white and blue. For a potentially more worldly perspective, the free BBC Olympics app for iOS and Android devices will give you headlines about your national team based on your location. It also has video features, schedules and details about every sport, country and competitor. Some national teams have in-

dividual apps, such as Team USA, Team Ireland, Team Slovenia and Team Korea, and many others have a Facebook or Twitter presence. You can get the American team’s app in Apple’s App Store and in the Google Play app store. This year more than before, social media will be well woven into the experience of the Games, from the coverage and the people covering it to the viewers and the athletes – something Twitter Chief Executive Dick Costolo called an “inside-out view.�

Although Twitter won’t go into detail on how it plans to highlight Olympics-related tweets, it is expecting huge traffic. In fact, there were more tweets about the Olympics on a single day in July than during the entire 2008 Beijing Summer Games, according to a Twitter spokesperson. Facebook also will be lighting up with activity. In addition to millions of users posting and cheering on their teams, NBC Olympics.com can connect to users’ Facebook timelines.

Locals headed to AAU Track and Field Junior Olympics BY ANDREAS BUTLER DAYTONA TIMES butleramj@yahoo.com

Going to the Amateur Athletic Union (AAU) Track and Field Junior Olympics is common for kids on the Florida East Coast Supersonics Track and Field Club. This year is no exception as the team has a total of 35 kids ages six through 18 heading to this year’s event in Houston, Texas from July 30 to Aug. 4 “This is the most kids that we have ever had qualify in our programs history. Despite having a lot of newcomers we still have a good number of kids that have medaled in previous years,� said Wonzel Morris, program director.

Changes this year The Supersonics is a 501c3 nonprofit program comprised of kids from cities such as Daytona, Ormond, Holly Hill and New Smyrna Beach.

The club was previously the Daytona Beach Supersonics, which has existed since 1998. This year the city of Daytona Beach didn’t sponsor the program because of budget issues but others stepped in to keep it going. “With them dropping it and Fred Morrell being a city employee, he couldn’t run the team. I basically just stepped in for him. It wasn’t as challenging as a changeover for us because the most of the parents have been with the program. With the economy and budget cuts we tried to prepare for it. We just tried to survive without the face of our program who was Fred. The program was too big and popular to let fall,� Morris explained. The Supersonics have been backed mainly by one donor who wished not to be identified.

Successful program The program has had a history of success winning numerous medals including many gold med-

als over the years. The program has won several gold medals in recent years as well. The group also won a total of 39 (14 gold, 16 silver, nine bronze) medals at the state meet this year. “Our kids come back each year and many have grown up in the program. Despite having a lot of turnover we mainly just reloaded each year. We have a lot of talent in Daytona as well, which has helped us be successful,� commented Morrell. Morris added, “I would say that our volunteer coaches have really helped our success along with the dedication and sacrifice of our kids.�

Medal contenders The Supersonics headed to Nationals are headlined by high school track and football stars such as Seabreeze’s Charles Nelson, 17 (long jump); Spruce Creek’s Xavier Atkins, 16 (100 and 200m dashes) and New Smyrna’s James Clark, 17

(4x100m relay). On the boys side, some medal contenders include Kamron Lee, 12 (high jump, long jump); Deeshari Keith, 11 (long jump); DeMarcus Hampton, 13 (high jump, 100, 200); Brian Jenkins, Jr, 12 (400, 800) and Trayvon Killins, 11 (4x400m). Some girl participants expected to compete for medals include Sanaii Gaines, 5 (4x100); Josie Gray, 15 (3,000); Alyssa Baylif, 15 (3,000, 5,000); Keniyah Smith, 11 (high jump); and Jasmyn Dorsey, 10 (100, 200, long jump). Keeping the youngster focused at the big race may be difficult. Morris commented, “Sanaii Gaines is the youngest we have ever had qualify for Nationals. The new kids may be intimidated by the crowd of 40,000, but I think the earlier the better because by the time they get in high school you will have experience at a high level rather than going out there fresh.�

B-CU ATHLETIC EXPANSION CORRECTION Because of an editing error, a story in last week’s Daytona Times on the expansion of BethuneCookman University’s athletic programs included incorrect information about its volleyball program. The story stated that B-CU was adding a women’s volleyball team. It should have stated that a women’s sand volleyball team is being added. The university already has a women’s volleyball team.

HEALTH

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JULY 26 - AUGUST 1, 2012

What it’s like to have Alzheimer’s Dementia simulation for caregivers gaining popularity around the country BY DONALD BRADLEY MCCLATCHY NEWSPAPERS (MCT)

KANSAS CITY, Mo. – Five little tasks in eight minutes. Seemed simple enough. Things like fold towels, put on a sweater, drink half a cup of water, clear the table, find a necktie. No big deal, right? But now add spiked inserts in your shoes, blurry goggles, clumsy gloves and headphones putting staticky radio and random noise into year ears. With all that going on, you might just put that cardigan on upside down. Nothing can re-create the horror that is Alzheimer’s, which now affects 5.6 million Americans. But at Villa Ventura, a senior-living community in Kansas City, Mo., employees are at least getting a sense of what victims of the disease can feel. A pretty good sense, too, apparently – because the experience can plop a perfectly stable person onto the edge of a bed, lost, mind racing and fretful about what to do next.

Hands-on trip “I couldn’t remember anything I was supposed to do,� Robert Minton, a van driver at the center, said after his turn at Virtual Dementia Tour, a handson trip into the dark world of Alzheimer’s and other forms of dementia. “I didn’t like it,� he added. “Eight minutes? Seemed like 30. I wanted it to end. I had to get out of there.� The system, developed by a geriatric specialist, is gaining popularity around the country. Villa Ventura’s plan is to open it up to fam-

ily members of its dementia patients. “Our employees see the pacing and frustration and exasperation every day,� said Sarah Miller, the center’s assistant assisted living director who helped lead a recent session. “If this helps them understand it a little better, then it’s a good thing.�

Unnerving experiment First off, Minton and others in his group “garbed� up. Plastic inserts with little sharp spikes into his shoes to create the “needles and pins� and neuropathy that affect many seniors. Rubber gloves with cloth gloves over them for the arthritis effect. Goggles to give everything a yellow tint, and a dot in the middle to simulate macular degeneration. Finally, headphones with loud clutter – static-edged radio, car horns, door slams. A worker then led Minton into a small apartment with ambient light only. “Robert,� she told him just inside the door as she read from a piece of paper, “I want you find the white sweater and put it on, write a three-sentence note to your family and put it in the envelope, set the table for four, fold all the towels and fill a cup halfway with water and drink it. “Your time starts now.�

Tough tasks With feet hurting, blurred vision and random noise in his ear, Minton made his way into the bedroom, where he found a jumble of clothes on the bed. He picked through the heap, holding up a dress

FRED BLOCHER/KANSAS CITY STAR/MCT

Assistant Assisted Living Director Sarah Miller, standing, started with a perception exercise during the Virtual Dementia Tour, a training tool to help new employees understand Alzheimer’s disease and other forms of dementia, at Villa Ventura in Kansas City, Mo. shirt, pants, a kid’s shirt, a sweatshirt, until he finally found the white sweater. He pulled it on. Upside down, at first. He went to the living room where he located paper and pencil, and scribbled a quick note. Others in the group followed. Similar tasks: “Put the belt through the loops on the pants, match six pairs of socks, clear the table, draw a picture of your family, find the necktie and put it on.� Minton had started to set the table, but stopped halfway through and put a hand to his forehead. He got the drink of water, then began to pace, sighed heavily and gestured that he had no idea what to do next. “Robert, you’re doing great,� the worker told him.

“You have four more things to do and they are written on the wall.� He found the instructions, but some letters were bigger than others. A few words were missing. Minton gave up.

Forgot everything But he did as well as others. One woman – without being told to – put on a shirt, took it off and then put in on again. She also found two stuffed bears and set them in a chair at the kitchen table. When asked later why she did that, Faye Chapman, another of the center’s drivers, shook her head: “I have no idea.� As fast as one person set the table, another took things away. They all talked to themselves.

During a debriefing afterward, Vickie Strawder, the center’s assisted-living activities director who served as a “tour� guide for half the group, said one of the men in her charge quit. “All of mine quit,� said Miller, who handled the other half. “I forgot everything I was supposed to do,� one in the group said. Diamond Acklin, a medication technician, nodded. “I did, too,� she said. “Too many things going on. I couldn’t think It’s hard. May not sound like it. It is.

In their shoes Virtual Dementia Tour was developed by P.K. Beville, a geriatric specialist who also founded Second Wind Dreams, a nonprof-

it group that works to help the elderly. Dementia is a problem that professionals say will only increase in coming years as baby boomers age. Currently, one in eight persons older than 65 lives with Alzheimer’s. More women than men, probably because women live longer. At Villa Ventura, employees see pacing, confusion, anxiousness, inability to perform simple tasks, answering the door naked, getting up at 3 a.m., and calling vulgar names. “You can look at these people every day,� said Jeremy Constance, the center’s food and beverage director, “but you can’t feel what they are feeling until you walk in their shoes.� For now, the closest to those are the shoes with the sharp spikes inside.

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