EE FR
RELL BLACK: BE AN ADVOCATE FOR THE CHILDREN PAGE 4
WEST VOLUSIA NAACP HONORS TRAILBLAZERS AT 29TH BANQUET SEE PAGE 5
HAPPY FOURTH OF JULY! JULY 4 - JULY 10, 2019
YEAR 44 NO. 27
www.daytonatimes.com
ROOTED IN COMMUNITY Derbyshire community garden a hit for residents who want to eat healthier. BY ANDREAS BUTLER DAYTONA TIMES
Andre James has been practicing a vegetarian and vegan diet for five years now. Lately, he has been picking up his fresh vegetables from a community garden owned and operated by Der-
byshire Place, a faith-based nonprofit on Derbyshire Road. “I think this garden is making a positive impact on the community. It teaches agriculture. It’s good to grow your own food. It’s healthy,” he told the Daytona Times. Plots at the garden, just north of Derbyshire Place, are rented to residents who live in the area. “This is something that we should pass on to the next generation. It’s difficult eating healthy. It’s quite expensive. Most pro-
ANDREAS BUTLER / DAYTONA TIMES
A community garden helps people with self-sufficiency and self-sustainability, said Julannda Zachary. duce in the stores aren’t fresh at all. Even the trucks on the side of the road don’t have fresh and organic stuff,’’ James said.
DAYTONA TIMES / 40TH ANNIVERSARY
Lucille O’Neal graduates; activist Hayling honored
Greens, peas and more The community garden has been hailed a success with all of its available plots filled on the day
of its grand opening last month. The garden has 36 plots growing a variety of items such as tomatoes, squash, sweet potatoes, black-eyed peas, eggplants, greens, lettuce and herbs. The garden is located in what’s designated as a food desert by the Florida Department of Health, where families don’t have quick access to fresh fruits and vegetables. It’s also located in an area where 90 percent of children are on free or reduced lunch. However, the area is not deemed as “poverty-stricken’’ or an area for all low-income residents.
Underserved area Although the area has its challenges, there are other areas with more poverty and where a food dessert exists. “We’re grateful for any kind See GARDEN, Page 2
Donations still being accepted for Bethune statue at Capitol COMPILED BY DAYTONA TIMES STAFF
Dr. Mary McLeod Bethune, founder of Bethune-Cookman University was chosen in early 2018 to represent Florida in the National Statuary Hall Collection in Washington, D.C. Area residents rallied together to create a non-profit organization to raise funds for the creation and placement of a commemorative statue of Bethune in the U.S. Capitol’s National Statuary Hall. Bethune will become one of 10 women honored in the collection and the first African American woman.
How to donate The Mary McLeod Bethune Statuary Fund, Inc., a not-forprofit corporation, has been set up through the collective efforts of the Daytona Beach Community Foundation, Inc. and B-CU as an independent organization to serve as the steward for all funding raised for statue. Individual donors and businesses within the Daytona Beach community have collectively raised approximately $380,000 of the $400,000 required to support the commissioning and installation of the statue. Donations are still being re-
From coding to swim classes, camps keeping local kids busy BY ANDREAS BUTLER DAYTONA TIMES
Eighteen years ago in 2001, the Daytona Times reported on Lucille O’Neal, the mother of NBA superstar Shaquille O’Neal, graduating from Bethune-Cookman College with 85 other summer graduates, and civil rights activist Dr. Robert Hayling finally being honored by his hometown of St. Augustine.
ALSO INSIDE
While some students are home this summer playing video games or are attending summer school, many local students are engaged in structured activities at area centers that are keeping them entertained and busy. Parents looking to sign up their kids for summer programs and camps until school resumes on Aug. 13 are too late. Most of them are full and aren’t accepting any new participants. Tier One Two Aspire Leap, Inc. (T.O.T.A.L.) Inc. is one organization that’s offering a STEM program in a fun way. It’s hosting a computer science clinic for grade
The statue of Dr. Mary McLeod Bethune is projected to be unveiled in 2020. quested for the statue. To donate, send checks payable to the “Daytona Beach Community Foundation” with a notation indicating “MMB Statuary Fund” on the memo line. Send the checks in care of the Daytona Regional Chamber of Commerce, 126 East Orange Ave., Daytona Beach, FL 32114.
‘A proud moment’ “This is an exciting project and a proud moment for locals in Daytona Beach. Dr. Mary McLeod Bethune was a shining star internationally, nationally and in Florida. Despite all her See STATUE, Page 2
school kids at 206 N. Beach St., Daytona Beach.
T.O.T.A.L. technology The students at the camp, which is full, are learning computer coding, computer science, Microsoft Office suites, team building, and communication skills. “It is very important to get young people involved in technology. Right now employers in the technology sector are having a hard time finding people to employ because people don’t have the right skills,” said Cicily Thomas, program director of the T.O.T.A.L summer clinic. T.O.T.A.L. is a non-profit organization that specializes in computer science training, entry level employment certifications and preparation and exams at little or no cost. “We help folks with workforce training. We also have college kids who are paid interns working with doing project management which will help them get jobs. Those inSee SUMMER, Page 2
COMMENTARY: REV. JESSE JACKSON: HERE’S WHAT DONALD TRUMP DID RIGHT OVER THE PAST WEEK | PAGE 4 SPORTS: THERE’S STILL TIME FOR YOUNGSTERS TO PLAY FOOTBALL AND CHEER THIS SUMMER | PAGE 6
7 FOCUS
R 2
JULY 4 – JULY 10, 2019
Executives, residents celebrate opening of The Daytona
Attending a June 27 reception at the gallery are Weldon and Richlyn Ryan, Joy Hayes, Martin T. Reese, and Erin Kendrick.
BY DAYTONA TIMES STAFF
The grand opening of The Daytona, a Marriott property, was held on June 27. The newly built hotel located at One Daytona recently opened its doors directly across from the Daytona International Speedway with a design and features that pay homage to the area’s racing history. The June 27 event included a ribbon cutting with remarks from
DUANE C. FERNANDEZ SR./ HARDNOTTSPHOTOGRAPHY.COM
‘Enroute’ continues at Daytona gallery The “Enroute” exhibition is on display through June 10 at the Mary McLeod Bethune Performing Arts Center/Visual Arts Gallery. The gallery is open from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. The exhibition features contemporary artists from various stages of their journey. The artists are Christopher Clark, Joy Hayes, Erin Kendrick, Jamerika Ramsey and Martin T. Reese. The gallery held an exhibit’s reception on June 27. It is located at 698 W. Internation-
GARDEN from Page 1 of press that can shine the light on the needs in the community. Many terms used such as ‘poverty-stricken’ and ‘low-income, ‘I wouldn’t use,” said the Rev. Miquel Rodriquez, executive director of Derbyshire Place. “We do live in a community that is underserved where many people don’t have access to fresh fruits and vegetables. There are no Publix, Winn-Dixie and farmers’ markets nearby,” noted Rodriguez.
Community support The church’s endeavor has been well received. “There is a huge need to get fresh fruits and vegetables in our community. It’s definitely community-led. We asked the community about a garden. They wanted it and they are supporting it,’’ Rodiquez noted. “They helped build it and they’re working it. They have come out on work days,’’ he noted.
$25 per year Lots are $25 for an entire year, which covers two growing seasons. People can purchase lots as
al Speedway Blvd., Daytona Beach.
Embry-Riddle professor to discuss lost Tuskegee airman Lt. James Polkinghorne Jr., a 22-year-old member of the famed Tuskegee Airmen, was last seen flying into thick clouds during a combat mission over Italy in May 1944. Decades later, his disappearance grabbed the attention of Dr. Leo Murphy, an Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University pro-
fessor and retired naval aviator, who spent years piecing together the details of the young man’s life. The result was the book, “Lost in Heaven: The Story of 1st Lt. James R. Polkinghorne Jr., Usaaf, Early Black Aviation History and the Tuskegee Airmen.” Murphy will discuss his findings during a free presentation at 2:30 p.m. Tuesday, July 9, at the John H. Dickerson Heritage Library, 411 S. Keech St., Daytona Beach. Registration is not required. For more information, call 386-239-6478.
Marriott executives and local officials. The theme was “Past, Present, and Future.’’ Attendees included Plato Ghinos, president of Shaner Hotel Group; Lance Shaner, CEO of Shaner Hotel Group; Brian Hockenbury, senior vice president of Hotel Operations, Shaner Hotel Group; Nancy Guran, director of sales at The Daytona; Michael Melendez, general manager of The Daytona; Fred Abbo, president of Prime Group; Larry Abbo, CEO of Prime Group; Lesa France Kennedy, CEO of International Speedway Corporation; and Daytona Beach Commissioner Ruth Trager.
CHARLES W. CHERRY II/DAYTONA TIMES
Daytona Beach Commissioner Ruth Trager (front, right) assists hotel executives in the ribbon cutting at the grand opening of The Daytona.
low as $10 for one growing season. Rodriguez expressed, “We thought of making it free. We do give some plots to families who can’t afford it. Still, we’d rather give people the pride in paying for what they build and create instead of giving it away. It’s still quite affordable.”
There are other community gardens in neighboring cities, including New Smyrna Beach and there are two in Ormond Beach. Rodriguez said, “We plan to expand ours in the near future. We hope this becomes a model for others. I’ll be meeting with other community leaders to bring more such gardens.”
All races, backgrounds
‘A great benefit’
The community garden is a multicultural effort. “We hope to make a positive impact on the community. We want people here. There are people here of all races, cultures, ethnicities and backgrounds using the garden and teaching others. This is something everyone can do and benefit from,” commented Russ Royce with the Master Gardeners Extension Services. Royce is the master gardener who oversees and teaches at the site. There is a hydro-garden section that has no soil and no insects. Some produce such as lettuce in this section has grown as quickly as 10 days. The garden is also self-irrigated with its own water system underground. “We grow everything naturally. We use no chemicals or insecticides in the entire garden. Community gardens are great but many fall by the wayside,” Royce noted. “It takes work to upkeep
Joni Joiner is a foster mom who is also using the garden. “It’s very nice. It’s accessible. It’s a great benefit to the community. I try to eat healthy, but I can do better. Hopefully the garden helps. Healthy food can be costly. This garden gives us more control of what we eat and we know where our food comes from,’’ she related. Julannda Zachary is using the garden and even helping to care for it. She said, “I do a lot of community work in Midtown and other areas of the city. When this opportunity came up, I got involved. “We need to address the health in the community and people’s well-being. A community garden helps people with self-sufficiency and self-sustainability,’’ she added. For more information about Derbyshire Place, call 386-9477708 or visit www.derbyshireplace.org.
ANDREAS BUTLER / DAYTONA TIMES
Master Gardener Russ Royce (center) gives instruction on how to grow fruits and vegetables to Julannda Zachary (left) and Joni Joiner at the community garden. them. We want the community to continue to care for and work this garden.”
Fruit or meat? Fresh fruits and vegetables can be quite expensive in health food stores and supermarkets. The garden is designed to help resi-
dents with this problem. Rodriquez explained that residents often have to make a choice of buying strawberries for $5 or buying a pack of drumsticks and ramen noodles, which may not be healthy. Other community gardens could be on the way in Daytona.
SUMMER
STATUE
from Page 1
from Page 1
terns are assisting teaching our youth as project managers too, which will help them earn jobs,” Thomas added. For more information on T.O.T.A.L., visit www.tierone2al.org.
City-run programs The City of Daytona Beach’s Leisure Services Division is running multiple summer programs. “We are focused on our summer programs right now. It’s too late as the programs are full,” said Keith Willis, Leisure Services director. These programs are held at the Midtown Cultural & Educational Center 130 kids, Yvonne Scarlett Golden Cultural and Educational Center with 100 participants, Ortona Elementary (85 students) and Sunnyland Park with 54 kids. “The summer programs are good for the kids. It’s always good to have kids doing something constructive and positive. It’s good to keep them off the streets,” said Andrew Powell, site supervisor of the Golden center.
Just for kids Another summer program is going on at the John H. Dickerson Center run by the Boys & Girls Club. All summer programs are MondayFriday from 7:30 to 5:30 p.m., which closes the community centers to the public for activities. “Our centers are closed until after the summer program. It’s a safety matter with the kids. The centers are open once the programs are over to adults and kids,” added Willis.
DUANE C. FERNANDEZ SR./HARDNOTTSPHOTOGRAPHY.COM
Students participate in the summer camp at the Yvonne Scarlett Golden Cultural and Educational Center.
Free meals, swimming Most summer camp locations are also free summer meal locations where all school-aged children up to 18 years old can get free meals. The program, funded by the U.S. Department of Agriculture, runs though Aug. 9 and is being sponsored by the Volusia County Human Services Office. The Cypress Aquatic Center at 981 George W. Engram Boulevard and Campbell Aquatic Center (Campbell Pool) located at 313 School Street are also open. There is a $2.00 fee for Cypress while Campbell is free with open swim from 1 p.m. until 4 p.m. Swim lessons are available for children ages 6 months to 17 years old at both pools by request only. Scholarships are available. “We want people to enjoy our pools. Summer camp kids get in the pools for free while other kids have to pay unless they go to Campbell during open swim. We have scholarships for swim lessons for those who need assis-
tance,” noted Willis. The Islamic Center of Daytona Beach also has a free youth summer camp at 347 S. Keech St. The camp is Monday through Friday from 7:30 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. for youth 4-15.
Other free activities CMX Cinemas (formerly Cobb Theaters) is offering a free Kids Summer Movie Escape. Located at 1850 Legends Lane near the Daytona Beach International Speedway, it offers free movie nights for kids of all ages. Shows start at 10 a.m. every Tuesday, Wednesday and Thursday. Doors open at 9:30 a.m. For more information and schedule, call 386-944-3922 or go to www.Cobbtheaters.com. The Museum of Arts & Sciences, located at 325 S. Nova Road in Daytona Beach, is free every first Tuesday of the month. The planetarium is the only non-free portion of the museum during the time. You must show proof of Volusia County residency. For more details, visit www.moas.org.
fame, she called Daytona Beach her home,’’ said Bob Lloyd, president of the fundraising committee. Founding chair and committee advocate Nancy Lohman added, “Dr. Bethune will stand among the greatest Americans in our nation’s capital and will continue to serve as an inspiration for women and especially women of color.”
Educator, activist, advocate The daughter of former slaves, Mary Jane McLeod Bethune became one of the most influential Black educators, civil and women’s rights activists and government officials of the 20th century. Along with founding B-CU, her role as an advisor to President Roosevelt gave African Americans a voice in government. “Dr. Bethune was a pioneer who not only championed education but was an advocate for human rights for all sectors of our society,’’ noted Dr. Clifford Porter, Jr.,
Vice President for Institutional Advancement for B-CU. “She left a rich legacy for Bethune-Cookman University, Daytona Beach, and the state of Florida. She is an example of the best of America,’’ he added.
Two per state The United States Congress created the National Statuary Hall Collection in 1864, allowing each state to display two statues within the Capitol to honor prominent citizens from individual state history that are deemed worthy of national commemoration. Sculptor and international artist Nilda Comas has been selected to create the statue, which is expected to be unveiled next year. The fund will cease after the unveiling. This Bethune statue will join that of John Gorrie, a physician, scientist, inventor, and humanitarian, whose statue was given to the National Statuary Hall Collection by Florida in 1914. Gorrie, who lived in Apalachicola, is considered the father of refrigeration and air-conditioning.
JULY 4 – JULY 10, 2019
3 7
COMMUNITY NEWS
Giscombe forms committee to explore commission seat A recent media release announced that entrepreneur Leslie Giscombe has formed an exploratory committee to evaluate opportunities to serve on the Flagler County Board of Commissioners as District 1 representative. The district, encompassing the core sections of Palm Coast surrounding the city’s innovation district, will have an open seat upon the retirement of Flagler County Commissioner Charlie Ericksen in 2020. Giscombe, a 28-year Palm Coast resident, has been a registered Republican for over two decades. In making his announcement, Giscombe said, “I am not new to the Republican party. I have been an active, registered Republican for over 20 years with deep roots in Flagler County. “My wife and I have lived here for nearly 30 years, raising our family in this community, and watching our children grow up in the Flagler County school system,” Giscombe added. He also advised that during the exploratory committee process, he will meet with voters, community organizations, community and business leaders, church leaders, and elected officials to gain a better understanding of what is important, their priorities and expectations of the next District 1 County Commissioner.
AAEA founder A small business owner, Giscombe is the founder and CEO of the African American Entrepreneurs Association (AAEA) with branches in Palm Coast, Daytona Beach and Gainesville. Giscombe and his organization speak of being active in the community and dedicated to making a positive impact for residents and businesses. He holds a Bachelor of Science degree in business admin-
PALM COAST COMMUNITY NEWS JEROLINE D. MCCARTHY
COURTESY OF AFRICAN AMERICAN ENTREPRENEURS ASSOCIATION
Daytona State College and the University of Central Florida donated the space of their auditorium and the conference room to the AAEA.
COURTESY OF AFRICAN AMERICAN ENTREPRENEURS ASSOCIATION
Leslie Giscombe has formed a committee to evaluate the opportunities of serving on the Flagler County Board of Commissioners. istration, marketing and entrepreneurship from the University of Florida and an MBA in International Business from Florida Tech.
AAEA hosting monthly workshops Another AAEA release announces that Daytona State College (DSC) and the University of Central Florida (UCF) have partnered with the AAEA, donating the space of their auditorium for monthly workshops and a conference room for weekly consultations with local AAEA members. Present were over 85 individuals, including Daytona Beach
PHOTO BY JEROLINE D. MCCARTHY/DAYTONA TIMES
Here’s a shot of Motown & Mo’s 2016 finale. City Commissioners Quanita May and Paula R. Reed; Brad Harris, director, Division of Economic Development; Joanne Flick, officer, Volusia County Minority Compliance; Parker Van Hart, director, University of Florida, Master of Science in Entrepreneurship Program; Laqutta McGill, vice president, VyStar Credit Union; Thaddeus Hammond, specialist, SBA Business Development; Michael Zachario, director, Florida Virtual Campus; Dr. Sheryl Weems, DSC; and Dr. Linda Bradley, UCF; as well as other officials. The AAEA looks forward to working together and helping the underserved community in the area of entrepreneurship. For further details, call 386931-4637.
ACADEMIC EXCELLENCE FOR BLACK STUDENTS. NO EXCUSES. PRAISE FOR ‘EXCELLENCE WITHOUT EXCUSE’: “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
www.excellencewithoutexcuse.com
Show to feature R&B and Motown According to Meshella Woods, Rhythm and Blues and the sounds of Motown will return to the main stage of Flagler Auditorium on Friday, Oct. 18, 7 p.m., and Saturday, Oct. 19, 5 p.m. “Journey Through Time,” directed by Jimmy Sims, president of City Lites LLC, will be featured in its 22nd year. The music has inspired generations of youth to fall in love with the sounds of the Detroit artists. Sims says that this year, the show will be more vibrant than ever. “It’s gonna be very hot. “We’re going to provide you with a “Journey Through Time,” to bring back memories with upbeat music. We have a variety of
Veterans Services offices expand outreach with VetraSpec With the addition of new claims management software, Volusia County’s Veterans Services Division has improved its ability to submit claims electronically and expedite decisions from the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs. VetraSpec allows veterans service counselors to access data from any computer with internet access because it stores data in one centralized, secure location. “We’re excited that we will be able to assist more veterans through community outreach,” said Volusia County Veterans Services Director Bob Watson. “VetraSpec will improve our mobility and allow us to visit veterans who are unable to come to one of our offices. We’ll be able to see three to four more clients outside the office each day.”
Offices in Volusia The county’s veterans services counselors assist all former and current members of the U.S. Armed Forces and their dependents in preparing claims for compensation, hospitalization, vocational training, and other benefits and privileges. The county has Veterans Services offices at: • 123 W. Indiana Ave., Room 100, DeLand • 717 W. Canal St., New Smyrna Beach • 1845 Holsonback Drive, Daytona Beach • 775 Harley Strickland Blvd., Orange City The offices are open from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. Monday through Friday. Appointments or requests for visitation can be made by calling 386-7405102.
Children and Families board to meet July 9 The Children and Families Advisory Board will meet at 1:30 p.m. Tuesday, July 9, in the auditorium of the Volusia County Agricultural Center, 3100 E. New York Ave., DeLand. Members will review, score and make funding recommendations for fiscal year 2019-20 contingency grant funding. Additionally, the board will discuss service categories for the county’s requests for statement of qualifications and develop a board meeting schedule for the current and upcoming fiscal year.
music,” he added. “This year’s show is going to be the best $25 you have ever spent,” said Sims. Groups of 10 persons will be admitted for $20 each. The ticket sales will go toward scholarships for local graduating high school students to pursue the arts in college. For ticket information, call 386437-7547. ••• As always, remember our prayers for the sick, afflicted, the prodigal son, or daughter, and the bereaved.
Celebrations Birthday wishes to Vinnie Carr, July 4; William Jones, July 8; and Yolaine Goodridge July 9.
The Children and Families Advisory Board assesses and evaluates strategies to meet needs, monitors program compliance, advertises funding availability, recommends appropriations for programs serving children and families, and provides recommendations to the Volusia County Council on children and family issues. For more information, visit www. volusia.org/cfab or call Special Projects Coordinator Corry Brown at 386-7365955, ext. 12970.
Library to offer free computer classes Boost your computer skills with free programs at the Daytona Beach Regional Library, 105 E. Magnolia Ave. Registration is requested. Library staff will conduct the following programs in July: • Find good reads: 10 a.m. Wednesday, July 10. Learn how to use the Surfcat, Books & Authors, and Novelist Plus databases to search for your favorite genres, topics and authors. • Microsoft Word 2016: 10 a.m. Friday, July 19. Learn how to correct errors and make changes to documents. • Androids for beginners: 10 a.m. Thursday, July 25. Pick up some tips on keeping your android phone or tablet updated, getting new apps, and accessing the library’s e-books and movies. • Basic computers: 10 a.m. Wednesday, July 31. This beginners class will cover such topics as desktop vs. laptop and hardware vs. software. Visit volusialibrary.org or call 386257-6036, option 4, to reserve a seat.
Clinic scheduling backto-school physicals, vaccinations Back-to-school physicals will be offered this month by appointment at the Halifax Health-Keech Pediatric Neighborhood Care clinic in Daytona Beach. The clinic days are: • Wednesdays, July 24 and July 31 from 4 to 6 p.m. • Saturday, Aug. 3 from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. • Wednesday, Aug. 7 from 4 to 6 p.m. The clinic is located at 431 S. Keech St., Daytona Beach. It provides a full range of pediatric care for patients, up to the age of 18, by appointment only. To schedule an appointment or for more information, call 386-425-3553 or visit www.halifaxhealth.org/keech.
R4
7 EDITORIAL
JULY 4 – JULY 10, 2019
Be an advocate for the kids “I believe that children are the future. Teach them well and let them lead the way.” Those iconic Whitney Houston lyrics have not only proven to be true, but also continue to inspire the youth of each generation. Those days where you didn’t have a care in the world, would be up early Saturday mornings watching cartoons and would cry when it was time to come in the house. Some of our proudest moments were those award ceremonies, field trips and end of the year “fun days” that made being a kid the greatest joy on Earth.
Important voice The voice of a child is just as important as the elder of a village. We’ve seen too many times where children have become victims, both physical and mental, to the power of silence. Some of our greatest talents have been in the form of child stars such as 10-year-old Michael Jackson, 5-year-old Tiger Woods, and 14-year-old film producer and mogul Marsai Martin. Children are the future, the backbone of the village. It’s time to respect that! As adults, we tend to block out our childhood memories to cope with the reality and depression of the real world including our terrible jobs, our dysfunctional relationships and our messy neighbors. No matter how stressful our days get, we must remember those childhood days and never forget how important it is for children to have a voice.
Get involved Fighting for your child’s voice to be heard, especially in the ed-
greatness, no matter the circumstances.
RELL BLACK GUEST COLUMNIST
The voice of a child is just as important as the elder of a village. We’ve seen too many times where children have become victims, both physical and mental, to the power of silence. ucation system, is so important considering “ADHD”(Attention Deficient / Hyperactivity Disorder) and “IEP” (Individualized Education Program) are the most common phrases spoken in Black schools. This is why it is essential to get involved in the lives of the youth. It could be mentoring, coaching, tutoring or even starting a children’s dance team, but it is your absolute duty to help positively influence the children in your community. Local groups like the BethuneCookman University Black Male Explorers founded by Brittany Presley, and Mr. and Mrs. Mentoring founded by Derek Collins, specifically work on inspiring and motivating young Black children to succeed and strive for
Donald Trump did something right In the last week, President Donald Trump suddenly reversed two major decisions. He announced he would not begin mass deportations of those who are living in the country illegally, which he previously threatened to do, and he pulled the plug on a bombing attack on Iran, even as the military jets were on the runway. The reversals stunned aides and allies alike. In both cases, Trump disappointed hawkish advisers and zealous supporters who had urged him to act. In both cases, Trump did the right thing.
Not much credit It’s easy to be skeptical or dismissive about Trump’s flip-flops. In both cases, he defused crises of his own making. In both, he avoided what would have been a humanitarian horror. In both, the impulsiveness of the threatened
REV. JESSE L. JACKSON, SR. TRICE EDNEY NEWS WIRE
Our dumping grounds I though, again about this mat-
There is hope Because of organizations like these, there is hope for a generation that many believe have the potential to be greater than our ancestors ever were. With the power of digital technology and social media, today’s kids have unlimited power and reach. As a community, we must continue to support our youth athletic programs such as Daytona Beach Cowboys, Daytona Beach Bucs and Daytona Express Track Club whose team members DJ and Sidney Noelin will be competing at the AAU Junior Olympics next month in North Carolina. Each summer before school starts, local organizations host their annual “back to school” bashes, including free backpacks filled with school supplies, free food, haircuts, music, games and fun for all. For some families, these events are a crucial part of a child’s upbringing. As a kid, I looked forward every year to getting my bookbag from the Calvary Christian Center with all the neighborhood kids. These organizations and leaders go out of their way to make sure every child has the proper items and materials to have a successful school year. It takes a village to raise the next generation of positive community leaders. They’re already bombarded with crazy images on TV, in music and the internet. When we become a voice for the voiceless, not only are you advocating for truth, but you’re changing his-
James “Mad Dog” Mattis, was an advocate of taking on Iran. The so-called “adults in the room” – the folks said to be reining in an impulsive and uninformed president – would have pushed us into another war. Attacking Iran would have violated Trump’s campaign promise to get us out of “stupid wars.” As president, he repeatedly says that “great powers don’t fight wars without end,” and boasts he’s getting the troops out.
Nothing’s changed action was matched by the suddenness of the reversal. In both, the reversals may only be a temporary attack of sanity. Critics argue that Trump’s reversals undermine his credibility and sap American authority. Cynics discount the decisions, saying even a broken clock gets the time right twice a day. All that may be true, but it is worth thanking Trump when he makes the right choice. On Iran, he is surrounded by advisers like National Security Adviser John Bolton, who eager to ratchet up the crisis. Even his former secretary of defense,
Plastics are strangling the planet On my morning walk I pass a tree every day that has a long plastic bag stuck in the branches. I keep wondering whether my neighbor realizes that the bag is strangling the tree. I am not exaggerating. The plastic is not simply sitting on the branches, but is cutting off air to the tree. Over time, that branch could die. Think about that the next time you are driving and see plastic bags flying around landing on bushes and trees. This is not a neutral issue.
VISUAL VIEWPOINT: CHRISTIANS ‘COMING OUT’
BILL FLETCHER, R. NNPA COLUMNIST
ter of plastics when I read a fascinating piece in the Guardian concerning the global glut of plastics and the role of the USA in the proliferation of plastic material. It is not just that we in the USA are producing an abundance of plastic material. It is that we are
In fact, however, the war in Afghanistan goes on, the troops are still in Syria and Iraq, Trump vetoed the congressional effort to end our role in the Saudi attack on Yemen, and he’s been ratcheting up pressure and sanctions on Iran from the beginning of his administration. When the Iranians shot down a U.S. drone, the hawks had exactly the provocation they wanted to begin bombing. Trump initially agreed, but then reversed himself, allegedly because he thought a bombing strike that might kill hundreds of Iranians was “disproportionate.” Hopefully, it was also because he remem-
shipping the waste overseas to the global South for alleged recycling or, in other cases, for simply dumping. A global version of “not in my backyard.” You have probably heard about islands of plastic (and other garbage) inhabiting our oceans. The impact of this is the dying off of entire segments of oceans. In addition, many countries in the global North, including but not limited to the USA, look at the countries of the global South as a massive garbage dump. What we use and use up, we then send to the global South to be disposed of. A recent global conference on plastics was stymied by the Trump administration which wished to take little to no responsibility for the proliferation of plastics, and blamed the current glut on Asian countries.
GARY MCCOY, SHILOH, IL
tory and rewriting statistics one child at a time.
A celebration Community Healing Project, Inc. is an organization I’m honored to serve as executive director. We are hosting a community-wide fundraiser to sponsor 50 children on a trip to the premiere of Disney’s “The Lion King” on July 19. This experience will be held for cultural awareness, educational advancement, and to celebrate local children and their parents who have strived for greatness and had a successful academic school year. We will also be discuss how we can protect African wildlife and ways we can continue to strengthen our communities. As a 501 (c)(3) nonprofit organization, we depend on commu-
bered his campaign promise, and his sensible instinct that beginning another war in the Middle East would be catastrophic. Trump has targeted immigrants from the beginning of his campaign, libeling those seeking asylum, implementing truly grotesque policies that rip children from their parents and cage them in unspeakable conditions. He vetoed the bipartisan immigration reform that Congress passed. Now he is ratcheting up the rhetoric for election purposes. When White House advisers like Stephen Miller reportedly pushed for mass deportations, the president suddenly announced they would begin, and then just as suddenly agreed to postpone them. He may have postponed them simply because the bureaucracy wasn’t ready to act. In any case, the decision was the right one.
Conflict not over The face-off with Iran continues. The White House announced it has launched a cyber-attack, will continue to punish Iranians with economic sanctions and is considering vari-
Blaming others What was so disingenuous about this is the historical role of the USA in promoting the use of plastics and paying no attention to disposal. Instead, the Trump administration acted as if there was no dirt (or perhaps no plastic) sticking to its shoes, and that the blame lay elsewhere. It is critical to highlight this issue to remind ourselves that the environmental challenges facing the planet are not solely about climate change, as critical as that happens to be. There is environmental catastrophe unfolding, much of which is playing out in our oceans.
We’re not alone In this context, the notion of “America First” – in addition to having been a slogan of pre-
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.
Dr. Glenn W. Cherry, Sales Manager
W W W. DAY T O N AT I M E S .C O M
Dr. Valerie Rawls-Cherry, Human Resources
Charles W. Cherry, Sr. (1928-2004), Founder Julia T. Cherry, Senior Managing Member, Central Florida Communicators Group, LLC Dr. Glenn W. Cherry, Cassandra CherryKittles, Charles W. Cherry II, Managing Members
Jenise Morgan, Senior Editor Angela van Emmerik, Creative Director Cassandra Cherry Kittles, Willie R. Kittles, Circulation Andreas Butler, Staff Writer Duane Fernandez Sr., Kim Gibson, Photojournalists
MEMBER
Florida Press Association
National Newspaper Publishers Association
Society of Professional Journalists
National Newspaper Association
Associated Press
nity partners like you to aid us in successfully completing our missions. We are requesting monetary donations, gift cards or an in-kind donation of services to maximize the impact of this essential community event. With your sizable donation, we will be able to raise enough funds to effectively and safely transport several students and properly feed and equip them and their families with educational materials for the upcoming school year. With your assistance, we can create a massive impact on all the children that are a part of this experience as we continue to change the world, one community at a time.
Rell Black is an award-winning activist, blogger and the founder of Community Healing Project Inc.
ous covert ways to strike Iran. The conflict will escalate unless Trump follows the decision not to bomb with a clear plan of action that deescalates the tension and finds a way back to the negotiating table. On the border, Trump only postponed the threat of mass deportations. He clearly wants to make immigrants a target once more in his re-election campaign. What would make sense is to convene the governments of our neighbors to the south and create a multilateral plan for humanitarian relief and economic development that would alleviate the desperation that forces families to leave their villages and come north. Without comprehensive immigration reform, Trump’s sudden act of common sense will soon be forgotten. In both cases, Trump’s policies are likely to make things worse rather than better. But at least in this instance, he chose not to follow the ruinous advice of his aides and supporters. At least that is encouraging.
The Rev. Jesse L. Jackson, Sr. is president and CEO of the Rainbow/PUSH Coalition.
World War 2 U.S. fascists – is the slogan of idiots. The USA does not exist on Planet Earth by itself. The planetary crisis in plastics is one that no one nation-state can resolve alone. There must be a collective pact, and this necessitates a shift in the attitude of an arrogant U.S. administration. This, of course, will only happen through a combination of mass pressure and the electoral removal of those who think that one can “Make America Great Again” while watching Planet Earth die.
Bill Fletcher, Jr. is the former president of TransAfrica Forum. Follow him on Twitter, Facebook and www.billfletcherjr.com. He is the author of the mystery “The Man Who Fell From the Sky.”
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.
5 7
M A YNEWS OR
JULY 4 – JULY 10, 2019 COMMUNITY DECEMBER 14 - 20, 2006
West Volusia NAACP draws 500-plus to th 29 banquet The West Volusia NAACP held its 29th Annual Freedom Fund Banquet on June 29 in Deltona with hundreds of Volusia County residents in attendance. The banquet was held at The Center at Deltona, 1640 Dr. Martin Luther King Blvd. The guest speaker was Hubert Grimes, former Bethune-Cookman University’s interim president and retired judge. Volusia County Councilwoman Barbara Girtman served as the mistress of ceremony. During the event, the NAACP branch celebrated community trailblazers and presented scholarships to Volusia students. Music and entertainment was provided by the Vibe Band.
Walter “David” Dawson, Beverly FosterFaber and Jean A. Richardson accept their Trailblazer Awards for their long service to the U.S. Federal Aviation Administration. Attorney Theodore Small accepts the branch’s Difference Maker Award as the Mistress of Ceremony, Volusia County Council District 1 Representative Barbara Girtman, looks on.
PHOTOS BY CHARLES W. CHERRY II
Deltona District 3 City Commissioner Maritza Avila-Vazquez, banquet speaker Hubert Grimes, Deltona City Manager Jane Shang, Daisy Grimes. Timothy Thomas, Marcus Quarterman, Jr., and Jermirria Williams were recognized for winning scholarship awards.
Daytona Beach Zone 3 City Commissioner Quanita May, far right, enjoyed the banquet with other attendees sitting at one of the AdventHealth tables.
The Vibe Band rocked the house after the banquet.
Former West Volusia County Branch President David Staples accepts the branch’s Legacy Award from current Branch President Michael E. Williams.
Family and friends of Trailblazer Award winner Jean A. Richardson (second row, far right) traveled to Deltona from as far away as the Washington, D.C – Maryland - Virginia area to witness her accept her award.
R6
7 SPORTS
JULY 4 – JULY 10, 2019 Association/ Daytona Beach Bucs Football & Cheer Leadership: Commissioner Tommy Roland League/conference: Pop Warner/East Coast Conference Weight: The team has unlimited weight limits on all teams except for the oldest age group. Space available: Yes on Pewee, Junior Varsity and unlimited weight teams. Cost: $175 Ages: 5 to 14 Team breakdown: Tiny Mites (ages 5, 6, 7); Mitey Mites (ages 7, 8, 9); 10U; 12U); 14U Cheerleading: Yes Practice location/home field: Derbyshire Sports Complex Contact: 386-852-2552 or www. ballcharts.com/daytonabeachpopwarne; @DaytonaBeachBucs on Facebook
Daytona Cowboys
FILE PHOTOS
Youth line up for drills and exercises at a Daytona Beach Buccaneers’ football clinic.
There’s still time to play football, cheer this summer
Too many teams?
BY ANDREAS BUTLER DAYTONA TIMES
Football is still America’s top sport and Florida has a rich history of producing some of the best talent. Parents still looking for something their kids can do from now and even through the fall can sign their young ones up up for football and cheerleading. Several local programs still accepting players. Within Daytona’s city limits, there are four youth football programs – the Daytona Beach Buccaneers, Daytona Cowboys, Daytona Dolphins and Volusia County Sharks. The Sharks are the new kids on the block and will compete in the Indian River Youth Football & Cheer League. “I’ve coached at the high school and semi-pro levels. I just saw a need for another program,” said Coach Dahryll Brown, president of the Sharks. “There are some good programs in town. I just want to get back to the basics and fundamentals of the game. Just teaching it the right way and not just be all about winning.’’
The Cowboys’ 12 U Coach Will Bell addresses his team during a practice.
Coke Zero Sugar 400 activities underway at Speedway The 61st Annual Coke Zero Sugar 400 Powered By Coca-Cola is Saturday night at the Daytona International Speedway. Events already are underway, which include tours, activities for kids, and opportunities for fans to meet the drivers and get autographs. Friday night’s Circle K Firecracker 250 Powered by Coca-Cola takes place at 7:30 p.m. The Coke Zero Sugar 400 starts at 7:30 p.m. on July 6 with fireworks scheduled after the big race. For a full list of Speedway activities over the weekend, visit Daytonainternationalspeedway.com.
With four programs in Daytona, two in Ormond Beach (Sandcrabs/Pop Warner and Pride/unlimited weight), one in Port Orange (Hawks/Pop Warner) as well as one in New Smyrna Beach (Cudas), there could be an argument that there are too many teams. Another argument could be made that Daytona can’t form a championship caliber program due to talent being spread around. “I think it is too many programs in town. Some programs are not filling out teams in certain divisions. Also, some programs could field championship caliber teams if, the kids were all together in one age group with a lot of talented kids,” said Jones. Brown differed. “We got kids from all over the county. We wanted to focus on the west side. We practice at Palm Terrace Elementary. I think it is enough kids for everybody,’’ he said.
Offsetting the costs
Camaradie, discipline There are still a lot of benefits to playing football and being a cheerleader. “Organized youth sports – both the football for the boys and girls – should bring these kids camaraderie, teamwork, discipline, brotherhood, sisterhood and build self-esteem. In the long run, it should help the community by bringing people together as productive members of society. It also keeps kids off the streets and off trouble,” commented Coach Anthony Lee, president of the Daytona Dolphins. The Dolphins compete in the Mid-Florida Football & Cheer Conference.
Lee noted, “We’re still getting kids. There is a lot of training for coaches on how to look for concussions now. Coaches also must get qualifications on concussion training. Our program has new concussion protocol helmets too,” stated Lee.
The Daytona Beach Dolphins still has space available on all teams.
Concussions training With concussion concerns across the country some places are losing football programs at all levels, but locally and across the state football is still going strong. “Football is still strong, especially here locally in Daytona. Also, for the concussions there is a lot of training. All coaches have to
go through CDC (Centers for Disease Control) training,” expressed Lester “L.J.” Jones, head coach and commissioner of the Daytona Beach Cowboys. The Cowboys also compete in the Mid-Florida Football & Cheer Conference. There are also equipment improvements to deal with concussions.
Costs of programs can be tricky but price ranges differ per program. Programs are finding ways to offshoot costs for those who can’t afford it and those who have multiple kids. Lee stressed, “We have ways to offset costs. Our football fee is $100. We work with kids on the south side mainly. We find ways to help. Also, cheerleading is $225. We also help those who have multiple kids, especially moms with multiple daughters wanting to cheer.” In addition, all football programs are unlimited weight now, including Pop Warner who traditionally had weight limit requirements for age groups.
Daytona Beach Buccaneers Official name: Daytona Beach Pop Warner Football and Cheer
Official name: Daytona Beach Cowboys Youth Football & Cheer Creators/leadership: Commissioner/President Peggy Cortez; Commissioner Lester “L.J.” Jones; Athletic Director, Shaheem Rain ge League/conference: Mid-Florida Youth Football & Cheer Conference Weight: Unlimited weight Space available: Some teams Cost: $175 football, $175 cheerleading Ages: 4 to 15 Team Breakdown: 6U, 8U, 10U, 12U, 14U Cheerleading: Yes Practice location/home field: Old YMCA near Derbyshire Sports Complex Contact: Peggy Cortez 386-8438281 www.facebook.com/daytona.beachcowboys
Daytona Beach Dolphins Official name: Daytona Beach Youth Sports/Daytona Beach Youth Dolphins Football & Cheer Creators/leadership: Owner/ President Anthony Lee; President Paulette Smith League/conference: Mid-Florida Youth Football & Cheer Conference Weight: Unlimited Space available: Yes on all teams; cheerleading needed and volunteer coaches Cost: $100 football, $225 cheerleading $80 Ages: 4 to 15 Team breakdown: 6U (flag football), 8U, 10U, 12U, 15U Cheerleading: Yes Practice location/home field: Campbell Middle School Contact: 386-481-4085; www. daytonabeachyouthdolphins. com; www.facebook.com/daytonabeachyouthsports
Volusia County Sharks Official name: Volusia County Sharks Youth Football & Cheer Leadership: Dahryll Brown President & Commissioner Weight: Unlimited League/conference: Indian River Youth Football & Cheer Conference Space available: Yes Costs: $175 football, $200 cheerleading Ages: 4-14 Team breakdown: 6U, 8U, 10U, 12U, 14U Cheerleading: Yes Practice location/home field: Palm Terrace Elementary (practice) Atlantic High (games) Contact: Dahryll Brown at 386233-5724; www.facebook.com/ volusiacoutnysharks
Race fans watch the fireworks after the Coke Zero Sugar 400 at Daytona International Speedway on July 7, 2018. JIM TILLER/ TNS