Daytona Times, March 1, 2018

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40 YEARS

CELEBRATING

DR. JULIANNE MALVEAUX: MOVING TOWARD A MULTIRACIAL YOUTH COALITION PAGE 4

HISTORIC SEASON FOR HALIFAX HOOPS SEE PAGE 7

OF CONTINUOUS WEEKLY PUBLISHING

YEAR 43 NO. 9

%AST #ENTRAL &LORIDA S "LACK 6OICE MARCH 2 - MARCH 7, 2018

www.daytonatimes.com

TAKING THEM SERIOUSLY School shootings and threats have communities on edge and at odds

BY ANDREAS BUTLER DAYTONA TIMES

Residents, parents, retired educators, retired law enforcement and more flocked the Volusia County School Board meeting on Tuesday night to discuss school safety.

More than 30 people from across the county came to speak, primarily about the county not

arming teachers with firearms.

The school board only discussed current safety measures in place.

Volusia and Flagler County schools have had a total of 30 incidents relating to guns and gun threats since the Feb. 14 shooting at Marjory Stoneman Douglas Stoneman Douglas High School in Parkland that left 17 people dead.

More threats On Wednesday, two more Volusia County school students were charged with criminal threats to a school as two See THREATS, Page 2

DUANE C. FERNANDEZ SR./HARDNOTTSPHOTOGRAPHY.COM

Volusia County residents protest outside of Tuesday night’s school board meeting in DeLand.

DAYTONA TIMES / 40TH ANNIVERSARY

Black College Reunion, J. Griffen Greene honored

Employee sues county for discrimination

BY ANDREAS BUTLER DAYTONA TIMES

Willie Norman, a heavy equipment operator, has worked for the Volusia County Public Works Department in the Solid Waste Division for the past 11 years.

Norman, 42, a Black male, is now suing the county for discrimination and retaliation based on race. He says he has been passed over for promotion, faced racism and discrimination.

The lawsuit suit states that he faced retaliation and backlash after complaining about the lack of diversity, equal Willie opportunity, lack

of hiring for minorities and unfair treatment.

Norman is seeking lost wages and benefits, front pay, compensatory damages for mental and emotional distress and reasonable attorney fees, according to the lawsuit.

‘Pattern of discrimination’ Attorney Al Truesdale of Truesdale Law in DeLand is representing Norman. The suit was filed on Feb. 8.

“There is definitely a pattern of discrimination against my client in the Public Works division, which is clearly spelled out in my client’s claim. The complaint sets out how he has been subject to acts of discrimination based

Norman

See NORMAN, Page 2

New documentary by Times photojournalist focuses on Dozier school

BY ANDREAS BUTLER DAYTONA TIMES

The Arthur G. Dozier School for Boys in Mariana operated from 1900 to 2011. Called a reform school for wayward boys, it turned out to be a house of horror.

Boys sent to the school were beaten, abused, raped, tortured and murdered. One of those victims who died at the school was Billy Jackson of Daytona Beach.

Daytona Times photojournalist Duane C. Fernandez Sr. became fascinated with the story after seeing a news account about it. His curiosity has led to a documentary written, directed and produced by Fernandez that includes heart-wrenching stories from several who lived at the school.

“Lies Uncovered: The Truth about The Author G. Dozier Reform School for Boys’’ was shown for the first time on Sunday during a private screening at the Cinematique of Daytona.

Nineteen years ago in 1999, the Daytona Times reported on controversy surrounding the Volusia County Sheriff’s Office patrolling Daytona Beach during Black College Reunion, and the naming of a building at Daytona Beach Community College after J. Griffen Greene, the former president of all-Black Volusia County Community College.

ALSO INSIDE

‘Still occurring’ Over the past two years, Fernandez has worked on the project, which includes Jackson’s story.

“I like history. There is a lot of history in Florida and the South.

CHARLES W. CHERRY II/DAYTONA TIMES

Duane C. Fernandez Sr. discusses the making of his documentary during a screening on Sunday night.

Being a photojournalist and learning about the Billy Jackson story and him being from Daytona sparked my interest. I heard about the school. I saw it on TV. I wanted to go there. I thought the school would be a great story to tell in a documentary,” Fernandez told the Daytona Times.

“My hope is that people will see that things didn’t change.

The film shows things that were occurring in the 40s and 50s, then things were still going in See DOZIER, Page 2

COMMENTARY: MARK LEWIS: HOW CAN VALENTINE’S DAY HOPES AND PRAYERS HELP? | PAGE 4 COMMUNITY NEWS: WHAT YOU SHOULD KNOW ABOUT BEACH SEASON IN VOLUSIA COUNTY | PAGE 8

7 FOCUS

R2 Gospel clinicians to lead workshop, concert The Freedom 2018 Gospel Music & Kingdom Fellowship will host its gospel music workshop on March 3 at Apostolic Faith Temple, 300 Milford Place, New Smyrna Beach.

The workshop is from 8:30 a.m. to 1 p.m. A concert by the workshop choir will be at 7 p.m.

The workshop will include a youth division (ages 6-16) and an adult division (17 and up).

Training provided will include voice, choral technique, ear training and instrument preparedness.

Clinicians include Calvin Tillman, music director at Macedonia Baptist Church, Eaton-

MARCH 1 – MARCH 7, 2018

ville; Davon Jamison, music educator, engineer and producer, Houston, Texas; and James Hines of Hope Fellowship Church.

For more information, email kendjay@aol.com.

Mardi Gras party Saturday at Houligan’s The Daughters of Ancient City Court #216 will host a Mardi Gras Soiree on March 3 from 9 p.m. to midnight at Houligan’s Private Upstairs Room, 1725 W. International Speedway Blvd., Daytona Beach, FL 32114 Tickets are $10.00 and a portion of the proceeds will benefit the American Heart Association.

Attire is casual, but Mardi Gras masks are encouraged.

For more information, call 251-458-9978 or 904-729-2264.

Health and wellness fair set at Hope Fellowship A health and wellness fair is scheduled Saturday, March 20 from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. at Hope Fellowship Church, 869 Derbyshire Road, Daytona Beach.

It will include free health screenings, vendors, food, and activities for children.

Vendors will include the Daytona Beach Black Nurses Association, Alzheimer’s Association, Progressive Medical Research, Angels Senior Living, All at Home Health Care,

Health Market, Blossom’s Work Force Academy, BethuneCookman University’s Odessa Chambliss Center for Health Equity,Daytona Beach Fire Station, BPHIT Fitness and Quanita’s Ballroom and Fitness.

For more information, call 386-527-5918.

County seeking agencies for summer food program Volusia County’s Human Services Office is seeking agencies to participate in the Summer Food Service Program, which will run from June 4 through Aug. 10.

The federally funded program provides meals and snacks to all children ages 18 and younger

in geographical areas where at least 50 percent of the children are eligible for free or reducedprice school meals. It was created to ensure that children in low-income areas can receive nutritious meals during summer vacation.

Approved sites will receive meals to serve to participating children.

Schools, public agencies and private nonprofit organizations must apply by March 23. Applications are available at www. volusia.org/community_assistance/applications or by calling 386-254-4648, ext. 12984, in Daytona Beach; 386-4233375, ext. 12984, in New Smyrna Beach; or 386-736-5956, ext.

12984, in DeLand.

DOZIER from Page 1 2006. They were still finding ways to shuffle these boys into the school. They found other ways to continue. Mistreatment of young Black males are still occurring – just look at the school to prison pipeline,” he noted.

Couldn’t escape

DUANE C. FERNANDEZ SR./HARDNOTTSPHOTOGRAPHY.COM

Students were among the large crowd gathered in DeLand to hear the school board members’ thoughts on school safety.

THREAT from Page 1 13-year olds were arrested at Deltona Middle school after reports of suspicious activity. Many of the threats came via social media.

Erica Gardener didn’t attend the meeting. However, as a parent with a son at Spruce Creek High in Port Orange and two others at Turie T. Small Elementary in Daytona, she is concerned.

“I’m concerned. I don’t think that they should arm teachers. I do think that those with licensed firearms should secure their weapons from their kids. They should also know their children’s mental state to see if they are close to going off the edge and would resort to using a gun for violence,” she said.

Concerned mom Tenesha Swanson told the Daytona Times she is watching developments. She has a daughter at Mainland High and son at Hinson Middle.

“I’m always concerned about my children’s safety, and I feel if we entrust teachers with educating our children and they are trained to teach, how can they not competent enough to be trained to carry a firearm?”

She added, “Yes, they should

NORMAN from Page 1 on his race going back several years,” Truesdale stated.

Seeking jury trial The lawsuit states that Norman has complaints going back to 2008 in regards to racism, discrimination, unfair treatment and retaliation. It also states that Norman is requesting a trial by jury.

“I think if a jury looks at this objectively, they would see that my client hasn’t been treated the way that he should have based on his

have the ability to be armed or a least some administrative staff.

They should only be able to use their firearm during a shooting.’’

Possible solutions During Tuesday night’s meeting, the public brought up possible solutions such as whether to arm teachers or not, secret tunnels, making security like airports and courthouses, better funding of resource officers, giving police radio frequency access to teachers, installing more law enforcement, better student evaluations of mental health, programs for troubled kids, and documenting troubled kids to law enforcement.

Law enforcement ensures the public that they are doing all that they can.

The Daytona Beach Police Department participates in the Safety Resource Officer program, which puts a law enforcement officer in schools. Originally, the sheriff’s office presented it, but now more police departments are involved.

The police department has an officer in all 10 schools inside its city limits – from elementary to high school.

No joke Law enforcement takes all threats seriously.

“I think there are kids being immature who don’t understand the gravity or magnitude of the situa-

experience, background and credentials,” Truesdale told the Daytona Times.

Volusia County spokesperson Joanne Magley said that the county cannot respond to ongoing litigation.

NAACP responds Local civil rights organizations expressed concern about equal employment practices in county government.

“The NAACP believes that there are many problems in the county government as it relates to the treatment of minority employees as well as the lack of minority employees working in county government,” commented Cynthia Slater, president of the

tion. They are just playing around.

Now, they are seeing that we aren’t playing and they are being arrested,’’ said Daytona Beach Police Chief Craig Capri. “We’re taking every threat seriously. Whoever makes any pranks will be held accountable. This isn’t nothing to joke about.’’

Always training Law enforcement has measures in place and always train.

Capri stated, “We haven’t changed much. We have always been preparing, planning and training for the worst and preparing for the worst. You think of strategies to combat this stuff,” Capri continued.

“We’ve had a cop in every school for the past three years.

You get police engaging students and building relationships, which is a preventive measure. The idea is that kids tell cops what’s going on and you have a way to handle such situations. We train our entire staff. We even put more cars in the area after shooting.”

Capri said he does support arming teachers.

“Yes, I do, only if it’s on a volunteer basis, only properly extensively trained. You have to do background checking. We should also look at retired military and police who just want to volunteer even those with grandkids in the schools. Don’t mind walking the halls armed. It’s just another option.”

Volusia County/Daytona Beach NAACP. West Volusia NAACP President Mike Williams added, “We get our fair share of complaints. We definitely are concerned about the minority contractors being hired by the county. We are concerned about minority hiring and equal opportunity everywhere in the area. We want to make sure people get fair opportunity.”

More complaints According to the suit, Norman was sent home without pay instead of being given light duty after and injury.

It also states how he was given broken and unsafe equipment to operate.

Jackson’s story is a familiar one about those who were sent to the school located in Florida’s Panhandle. He was sent there for repeatedly skipping school.

The Daytona native was born in 1939; he died at Dozier at the age of 13 in 1952 after just a few months there.

His remains were discovered in an unmarked grave site at the school and returned home in 2016.

While the cause of his death was listed decades ago as a urinary tract infection, it’s believe he died from a severe beating after trying to escape.

Funeral services for Jackson were held Aug. 13, 2016. at R.J. Gainous Funeral Home in Daytona Beach.

Paying their respects were former Dozier school students, known as the “White House Boys.’’ The men said they endured vicious beatings in a small building at the school called the White House.

Fernandez was there to document it for the Times.

Satisfied with result The photojournalist said he battled some challenges while making the documentary but it finally came together. He plans to make some tweaks to the film based on suggestions from those who attended the screening.

He admitted, “I guess just finding the right people to work with. That was the toughest aspect of making it.”

Those involved in the making of the documentary are proud of the outcome.

“I think it turned out really well and the story was told very well and gave insight into something that the community really didn’t know was happening,” commented Denise Thames, who narrated “Lies Uncovered.’’

‘This was heavy’ Dr. Daniel Hollar, chair of the psychology department at Bethune-Cookman University, interned at the Dozier school. He makes an appearance in “Lies Uncovered.’’ Hollar said he interned at Dozier while pursuing his

And, according to the lawsuit, Norman complained about the unfair treatment of Black and other minority employees compared to White employees as well as the lack of Black employees working on the job, in positions of management and their ability to be promoted.

Norman also alleges that he was retaliated against for his complaints. During one meeting, a supervisor asked “if this was a Black thing.”

The lawsuit also cites the following: In 2009, Norman filed a charge of discrimination with EEOC. In 2010, he complained of discrimination in Public Works department to the county’s Personnel Board after being suspended

master’s degree at Florida State University.

“This was heavy. This was some deep stuff to see,” he said about the documentary.

“This needs to be publicized.

We need this in the Florida State University System in the criminal justice and psychology programs. The documentary was excellent. I am glad I was asked to be a part of it. I will be supportive of it whenever I can.’’

“I had a situation there that gave me an eerie feeling and they tried to kick me out of the program for it. People must understand that a lot of things occurred there because the people in Mariana are complacent about these things,” he explained.

“Many Blacks worked at the school, including many of the guards. People felt the economic ramifications when the school closed. Now many people work at the Florida State Hospital (in Chattahoochee) and they don’t want to talk about it. We have to listen to our boys when they say they are being abused.’’

Educational experience Others who saw the documentary were pleased.

“I think it was excellent. I feel that the youngsters need to see this and learn about what happened. I think that this should be entered into some of the film festivals, including the American Black Film Festival,” said Kim Moten.

Lorenzo Bizzio had praise for Fernandez’s project. “I thought it was excellent. There was a lot of information that never gets out in the media or regular news,” Bizzio said.

“It opened my eyes of many of the atrocities that took place right here in Florida.

That was some Nazi-level stuff that happened to those young boys. You don’t think it happens so close to home and close to your time. It’s really shocking and eye-opening.

It shows the need for change that still needs to take place today.”

Savannah Ryan, 13, attended the screening with her parents.

“I knew nothing about this story. I learned something. It was a good documentary. The story itself makes me sad and angry,” she said.

Fernandez plans to submit the documentary to film festivals. He also wants to produce more documentaries.

“I have a few more in the works,” he said.

for insubordination to a supervisor who rarely mingled with Black employees.

In 2011, Norman complained to a supervisor that White employees were getting favorable treatment in overtime work. Norman was disciplined for using a racial slur. *In 2016, he complained to human resources officials that his supervisor was hindering his promotion. *He noted that a position he applied for was given to a White man with less experiences who had never worked at a landfill. *In 2017, Norman was forced to use a street sweeper that was severely damaged, which resulted in him being suspended two days for damaging it.

MARCH 1 – MARCH 7, 2018

3 7

COMMUNITY NEWS

Artist donates unique flag painting to Cultural Society The African American Cultural Society (AACS) is pleased to announce that it has received a gift from artist Bettie Eubanks per curator Meshella Woods, who spoke out in a press release from the society: The gifted painting titled, “Covered by the Flag,” is a much-appreciated addition to the Cultural Center’s collection of art and artifacts and the first of its kind.

Eubanks formally presented the painting to the AACS at its Feb. 24 general membership meeting.

Receiving a major gift of this kind during Black History Month is significant.

With this generous donation, Eubanks has insured that the AACS is positioned to be a strong steward of paintings in the society’s permanent art collection.

The artist’s motivation for creating the painting and subsequent gift to the African American Cultural Society, as Eubanks put it, is:

One Nation Under God We, as a people, are all Covered by the Flag.

We have slaved, we have farmed, we have served, and we have died for our country.

By our commitment to our country as Americans...Black Lives Matter.

Protect our children. We are all “Covered by the Flag.”

Passionate expressions Eubanks has been a part of the art world since the 1970s.

She is best known for her passionate color expressions that reflect her love of life and nature in her work.

Inspired by the ever-changing life cycle of people and nature, her paintings express vitality, natural beauty and joy through vibrant color and texture.

Bringing together her fine arts training and love of life, she creates an emotional awakening and joy for everyone that has the pleasure of viewing her paintings.

“Our days are a constant infusion of information and expression...Art is the unique opportunity to decidedly infuse our souls with joy and possibility,” says Eubanks, who received a Bachelor of Arts degree from Jersey City State University. She is a graduate of the Newark School of Fine Arts.

PALM COAST COMMUNITY NEWS JEROLINE D. MCCARTHY

Exhibitions galore Throughout her life, she has received numerous awards and recognition as an artist.

Eubanks has received the Art Wellness Award for creating the signature piece for Sisters Network, Inc., a Houston-based national breast cancer survivors’ organization.

She has created signature pieces for M.D. Anderson Hospital and Sun magazine.

Her art is part of private and corporate collections. Most recently, her work was included in the permanent collection of the Martha’s Vineyard Hospital.

Eubanks has exhibited her paintings for the past 20 years at the Atlanta Todd Gallery, Martha’s Vineyard Dragonfly Gallery, Firehouse Gallery, El Elegance Gallery, Florida Pine Lakes Gallery, and the Featherstone Gallery.

She is a founding member of the Vineyard African American Artists Group.

Eubanks spends her creative time between Palm Coast and Martha’s Vineyard, and exhibits her work throughout the East Coast and in her Florida studio by appointment.

Giving back to the community is very important, and she shares her love of art through volunteer service projects. She recently has made a financial donation to the AACS youth program.

‘In Unity’ painting donated too A second painting also has been presented to the African American Cultural Society.

It is a fine art reproduction of “In Unity,” the original painting created by Synthia Saint James.

The presentation, made by the Vulcans’

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PHOTO BY LEROY HAMILTON

The original painting of “In Unity’ was created by renowned artist Synthia Saint James.

PHOTOS COURTESY OF LOUIS P. MCCARTHY

Above left: The painting, “In Unity,” was presented to the AACS by Robert Lanier, Frederick Fowler, G. Wesley Powell, the Rev. Reggie Bynum, James T. Lee, and the Rev. Sims Jones. Above right: Shown with the gifted painting, “Covered by the Flag,” are AACS President Joseph Matthews; artist Bettie Eubanks; curator Meshella Woods; and Chairman of the Board Edmund G. Pinto Jr. Retired Firefighters Men’s Club of Florida, was represented by the Rev. Reggie Bynum, president; Robert Lanier, Frederick Fowler, G. Wesley Powell, James T. Lee, and the Rev. Sims Jones.

The painting raised awareness of the 12 firefighters, who were lost in the terrorist attack on 9/11.

It was mindful of retired Captain Robert Brooks and retired firefighter Robert Ottley of the New York City Fire Department, who passed away last year. Both firefighters were members of the Vulcans’ Retired Firefighters Men’s Club of Florida.

Legacy of artwork In 2001, artist Synthia Saint James was commissioned by the International Association of Black Firefighters to create a painting honoring Black firefighters who lost their lives in the 9/11 attack. This began her deep connection with Black firefighters and their legacy.

She unveiled the painting on Nov. 11, 2001, at a memorial held for the victims and their families in Brooklyn.

The painting, “In Unity,” now hangs on the walls of the Vulcan Station in Brooklyn. A limited edition is proudly displayed at the African American Firefighters Museum (AAFFM), where, in 2013, a fine arts fundraiser for the museum was begun by Saint James.

And now, a reproduction of “In Unity” now hangs at the African American Cultural Society.

The AAFFM, a non-profit organization, is located at 1401 S. Central Ave., Los Angeles.

City, Volusia to meet March 6 A joint public meeting between the Volusia County Council and the Daytona Beach Shores City Council will be held at 2 p.m. Tuesday, March 6, in the media room of the Emergency Operations Center, 3825 Tiger Bay Road, Daytona Beach.

The meeting is being held pursuant to Section 164.1055, Florida Statutes, part of the Florida Governmental Conflict Resolution Act. The purpose of this meeting is to consider the following issues: The jurisdiction of the county in relation to the city relative to property adjacent to the beach located within the city that has been acquired by the county for beach access.

Whether the county can agree to purchase future parking areas only on the west side of Highway A1A. The payment or payments in lieu of taxation by the county to the city and whether there is another means whereby the city can be paid in a manner that will offset the city’s loss of ad valorem tax revenues resulting from the county’s acquisition of properties.

The effect of the city’s recently enacted parking ordinance upon future county parking projects on the west side of Highway A1A. Whether the county will agree to no beach parking along areas where onbeach parking has been replaced by off-beach parking lots (beach driving would not cease).

Whether the County Council will

Tribute to firefighters It is believed to be the first historical building, the only free-standing AfricanAmerican Firefighter Museum containing vintage photos and stories of pioneering memorabilia of African-American firefighters, captains, chief officers and historical women, fire-service professionals from around the country.

There stands the memorial tribute to the firefighters who perished during the 9/11 attack on the World Trade Center in New York City.

Since 1997, Saint James is most celebrated for designing the first Kwanzaa stamp for the United States Postal Service. She received a History-Maker Award and designed the international cover art for Terri McMillan’s book, “Waiting to Exhale.”

Her incredible art has been cherished and collected by Johnnie L. Cochran Jr., Alice Walker, Glynn Turman, Brenda Russell, Jennifer Lewis and many others.

••• As always, remember our prayers for the sick, afflicted, the prodigal son, or daughter, and the bereaved.

Celebrations Birthday wishes to Kristara Peddlar, Shirley Davis, Olivia R. Price, March 1; Jazmine Major Arnold, March 2; my editor, Jenise Morgan, March 3; Delcena Samuels, Diedre Robinson, March 7.

Happy anniversary to Frank and Almedia Quarterman, March 3; and Robert and Lynne Williams, March 7.

agree with the first filed county plans for off-beach parking, which provide for some recreational amenities.

The public is invited to attend the meeting.

Volusia to offer spring break camps Children can participate in group activities and field trips with Volusia County’s spring break camps, which are being offered from 7:30 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. March 12 through 16 at Robert Strickland Park, 1670 Strickland Range Road, Daytona Beach; and Gemini Springs Park, 37 Dirksen Drive, DeBary Advance registration and payment are required. The $65 fee at each site includes playground activities, arts and crafts, and field trips.

The camp at Robert Strickland Park is open to children ages 5 to 11. Parents can register their children from noon to 5:30 p.m. March 5, 7 and 8 at the park’s recreation center. For more information, contact David Hinson at dhinson@volusia.org or 386-527-5213.

Children ages 5 to 12 can take part in the camp at Gemini Springs Park. Parents can register their children from 4 to 6 p.m. March 1 and 2 and from 9 a.m. to noon March 3 at pavilion one, near the park’s playground. For more information, contact Daniel Marsh at dmarsh@volusia.org or 386-736-5953, ext. 16767.

The camps are coordinated by Volusia County’s Parks, Recreation and Culture Division. Daily schedules are posted at www.volusia.org/recreation.

R4

7 EDITORIAL

MARCH 1 – MARCH 7, 2018

Valentine’s Day ‘hopes and prayers’ On most Valentine’s Day, schools are draped in red streamers. Red and pink hearts dot the campus and cards are exchanged by students. It’s a day of good cheer and fun, a day when students want to be there.

Most of us remember those February days; the memories are good enough to last a lifetime.

Long remembered But February 14, 2018 will long be remembered for something totally different at Marjory Stoneman Douglas High School, outside of Pompano Beach. Seventeen lives lost, even more wounded. Scarred for life.

That it happened in Florida is only incidental really. That it happened in the United States is almost expected. Let me amend that. It IS expected.

Parkland now gets to join the names of places like Columbine and Newtown and Virginia Tech.

The homes of American schools that became killing fields.

Born in 1998, Nikolas Cruz was a former student at Douglas. He was eventually expelled after multiple incidents of violent behavior. He was known as an avid gun lover. His visit back to his former school was on a day when he knew every student wanted to be at school.

His intent was to take human lives. His success allows us now just like we did just scant months ago after the massacre in Las Vegas, to experience the familiar song and dance from politicians that has become both disgusting and pitiful.

‘Hopes and prayers’ We in America are being held prisoner by politicians who forget that 19 years ago, 13 kids were slaughtered in Columbine, Colo. We are being ignored by politicians who told us to pray for Las Vegas after a gunman took almost 60 lives during an open-air concert.

They don’t want you to see the pictures of the dead. They’ll tell you on the day or few days after the shootings, that “Now is not the time to talk about gun control.” The aim – to let the issue die just as these kids just did. It’s crazy.

Florida is now becoming a haven for anybody who wants to live in a home with an unlim-

guns in their personal “collection.”

MARK LEWIS DAYTONA TIMES COLUMNIST

The children of gunhappy, gun-defending, brainwashed Americans are a greater threat to kill your child than any soldier from any foreign land. That’s ironic because of the billions of dollars we spend on defense, vs. the time, money and energy they refuse to spend to keep guns out of the hands of the mentally ill. ited number of guns and ammunition. This is the home of “Stand Your Ground,” the home of George Zimmerman and the former home of Trayvon Martin.

Places to point at Florida has dozens of gun shows per year and gun racks in every other pickup truck. Today, Florida is also home of two of the most heinous gun crimes in U.S. history. Orlando and Parkland now take their place as places to point at but do nothing about.

Since the public execution of John F. Kennedy in November 1963, over one million civilian Americans have lost their lives to gunfire. That is more lives than every American soldier, airman, Marine and sailor in every American war, combined.

There are more guns in the United States than there are American citizens. Most gun owners in America average ten

Toward a multiracial youth coalition One cannot help but be riveted by the outstanding response from the young survivors of the carnage at Marjory Stoneman Douglas High School in Parkland and their absolute audacity in confronting both Florida legislators and the president with their frustration at the absence of common sense gun control.

During a CNN town hall, student Cameron Kasky asked Senator Marco Rubio whether he would continue to take money from the National Rifle Association, the organization students have focused on as one of the reason there are no commonsense gun laws.

Rubio said he would continue to take money from the NRA (they own a $3 million slice of his hide), but that he would agree to change laws so no one under 21 could purchase an automatic weapon, and that he would agree to outlaw the “bump stocks” that transform semi-automatic weapons to automatic weapons.

‘Manipulated’ lie All of the students who have

VISUAL VIEWPOINT: THE NEW THREE ‘Rs’

JULIANNE MALVEAUX TRICE EDNEY NEWS WIRE

spoken up have been impressive, so much so that CNN commentator Jack Kingston, a former Georgia Republican congressman, and other of his ilk have asserted that these students are “crisis actors” who are being “manipulated” by “liberals” and “Democrats.”

All you have to do is listen to one of these young people, hear the tears trailing at the end of their voices, and hear their frustrated voices rising into yelling, to know they have not been coached. The emotion is too raw, the feelings are too real, and one young woman told a CNN reporter that she “resented” the notion of manipulation.

These young people are between 14 and 18, middle and upper-middle-class young people who have had the benefit of a civics education. They plan to

Can’t help How can our hopes and prayers help a situation that lends itself to the very inevitability of mass killings due to guns?

It can’t.

The gun industry is one of the powerful lobbies on Capitol Hill.

Millions per year being pumped into the re-election coffers of many of our senators and congressmen.

Why is this such a problem?

Why do they accept this money and why do they fight tooth and nail to keep your “right” to own a gun as sacred as breathing air?

Profit. Names like Remington, Colt, Ruger and Springfield Arms must sell a quota of guns and ammunition per year to keep up their profits. They are corporations and just like any successful corporation, must create demand. How do they continue to do it?

The National Rifle Association is the lynchpin of gun advertisement and gun awareness in the United States. On the surface, the NRA is a club with millions of rank-and-file members who enjoy hunting and recreational shooting. Under the surface, they are the propaganda arm for corporations who do not care how many people get killed in the U.S. per year.

How does it work?

Well, you might have noticed that after ever major shooting, gun sales rise. The NRA will trot out a line that they have used for decades now. They will tell us that the person who did the shooting could have been stopped IF teachers were also armed.

They will not mention how he came into those weapons at the age of 19. They will not comment on the type of weapon used. They will tell you that this is a liberal movement to “take away your Second Amendment rights.” This assault on that right will spur sales because the panic of us finally doing something spurs gun nuts to buy more guns.

The AR-15 was again the weapon of choice. Designed in the late 1950s, this gun was the successor of the M1 assault rifle.

It would later be re-designated

march on Washington on March 14th and have already attracted support from Oprah Winfrey, George and Amal Clooney, and others.

Rejecting Trump’s efforts The Parkland young people have been savvy enough to note that their school was not shot up by an immigrant, but by a homegrown terrorist. They have implicitly rejected the rhetoric that comes from 1600 Pennsylvania Avenue about dangerous immigrants.

Imagine that they actively reached out to some of the “Dreamers” and encouraged them to be part of the youth movement for common-sense gun laws. If these youths can combine their movements with their demands, they could develop a very powerful movement.

Imagine further that the young people who have been exposed to gun violence on the streets of cities like Chicago and Washington, D.C., joined the Parkland movement, and that a group of diverse young people came together to push politicians to do better on legislation that affects their generation. This includes gun laws, but may also include health care, and access to edu-

GARY MCCOY, SHILOH, IL

as the M-16. Colt Arms modified the original design to fire fully automatically.

Here’s the truth The average gun enthusiast might tell you that the AR-15 is not a military assault weapon.

For your edification, allow me to arm you with a rebuttal.

The AR-15 fires the 5.56 x 45 NATO round. NATO is the North American Treaty Organization.

Its purpose is the defense of member nations.

NATO rounds are for universal use by all NATO member organizations. People who present the AR-15 as a hunting rifle are basically shooting Bambi with something designed to kill soldiers.

The variety of those rounds include steel jacket rounds that can penetrate multiple bodies and armor-piercing rounds designed to penetrate Kevlar vests worn by policemen.

The AR-15 riddled 20 kids, aged 10 to 12 years old, with those bullets at Sandy Hook Elementary School. That should have been enough. Surely, the thought of kids that young rendered obliterated should have shocked Congress to act! There are not enough deaths, it seems to get us to get those who are elected to defend us, to do what is right and enact the laws to keep our own children safe.

Even after Republican congressmen are shot and nearly killed at a baseball field outside Washington, nothing can get them to move on this. What are we, that we continue to allow those who don’t give a damn

The young people who have risen up are a positive development.

If they are able to join with young people of color to push politicians in the right direction, we will all be better off! cation.

Even though the Parkland young’uns come from middleclass backgrounds, they are surely aware of the narrowing of opportunities for the middle class. If these mostly White young people could join with youth of color, they could mirror the dream that Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr., had when he talked about multiracial coalitions.

Perhaps I’m being overly optimistic about the possibility of a multiracial youth coalition. We have seen several young White men pick up automatic weapons and kill multiple people.

Dylan Roof was just 21 when he killed nine African-Americans at Emanuel AME Church. Niko-

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.

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about us to continue to think for us?

The usual excuses The NRA will continue to speak for our gun rights. The puppets on The Hill will continue to come up with stupid excuses for not mentally screening those who wish to buy guns.

They will also come up with excuses why 40-round clips should be allowed to be sold. They will also find any reason needed to smokescreen the simple question, “Why don’t you do something?”

Columbine, Virginia Tech, Sandy Hook and now Stoneman Douglas High bear witness to the fact that your children are more likely to lose their lives at their own school than they are in the seat of your car. The children of gun-happy, gun-defending, brainwashed Americans are a greater threat to kill your child than any soldier from any foreign land. That’s ironic because of the billions of dollars we spend on defense, vs. the time, money and energy they refuse to spend to keep guns out of the hands of the mentally ill.

The true threat is from within. It is the American-made AR15, the NRA, and the ghouls who continue to be elected to do nothing after another American family loses their child to gun violence.

Hopes and prayers? God helps those who help themselves.

Mark E. Lewis is a worldclass artist and liberal activist. Follow him on Twitter at @ MLewis Creative.

las Cruz, the killer in Parkland, is 19.

Opposing forces Even as the Parkland students galvanize, there are forces that are also galvanizing young people. These are the neo-Nazis, the White supremacists, and the downright racists who appeal to young White men who somehow feel that others have more opportunity than they do. These are the folks who listen to the siren call of No. 45’s rhetoric and eagerly embrace his divisiveness.

Still, if we believe as Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. often quoted, “The arc of the moral universe is long, but it bends toward justice,” then we must be optimistic about positive developments in the political arena.

The young people who have risen up are a positive development. If they are able to join with young people of color to push politicians in the right direction, we will all be better off!

Julianne Malveaux is a Washington, D.C.-based economist and writer. Her latest book, “Are We Better Off? Race, Obama and Public Policy,” is available at www.juliannemalveaux.com.

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MARCH 1 – MARCH 7, 2018

5 7

HEALTH

Alcohol, obesity, stress taking toll on millennials’ heart MAYO CLINIC NEWS NETWORK/TNS

Many of the heart disease risk factors are the same for everyone.

Lifestyle choices, such as lack of exercise, obesity, smoking and drinking alcohol excessively, are risk factors that affect many adults.

But Dr. Regis Fernandes, a Mayo Clinic cardiologist, says such behaviors seem to be more prevalent in younger people now than in the past.

Ian Roth talks with Fernandes about the other big reason millennials, people born between 1982 and 1994, may be at higher risk for developing heart disease at a younger age than previous generations.

“Lack of exercise, drinking too much alcohol, smoking and things like that (are risk factors),” Fernandes said.

Savvy but stressed The risks of heart disease are the same for everyone, but Fernandes says these habits seem to be more prevalent in younger people now than in the past.

“They’re very savvy,” he says. “They’re very good with computers, but they’re lacking on the exercise. Obesity is increasing.”

Most closely associated with the computer generation are millennials. Fernandes says one of the biggest reasons is stress.

“That’s a problem that they’re going to carry through their lifetime,” he says. “And we’re seeing this nowadays. This will eventually translate into heart disease at a younger age. And we see that in our emergency rooms now every day.”

Getting healthier Fernandes says millennials have to stop thinking about heart disease as something older people like their parents suffer from and start addressing their own heart disease risks.

“Eating more fruits and vegetables, avoiding high-calorie foods that are high in sugar and flour, etc.,” he said.

“Those behaviors actually help to reduce your blood pressure, reduce your sodium intake and your sugar intake. And they actually help to reduce your stress level.”

RANDALL BENTON/SACRAMENTO BEE/TNS

In addition to carrying healthy doses of vital nutrients, Greek yogurt in particular can be a good source of protein for those attempting to lose weight.

Spoonfuls of yogurt could benefit adults with high blood pressure

BY MICHAEL MCGOUGH SACRAMENTO BEE/TNS

In the realm of snacks, yogurt has always been considered one of the healthier options. But is it so healthy, it can help lower risk of cardiovascular disease?

A study published earlier this month in American Journal of Hypertension (Oxford University Press) concluded that both men and women suffering from high blood pressure could potentially improve their heart health with regular

yogurt consumption.

The study involved over 55,000 female and over 18,000 male participants, all of whom had “prevalent” high blood pressure, according to the study, which found that “yogurt intake was inversely associated” with cardiovascular disease risk.

2 servings a week Its final conclusion: “Hypertensive men and women who consumed (at least) 2 servings/week of yogurt, especially in the context of a

healthy diet, were at lower risk for developing (cardiovascular disease).”

In 2016, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention estimated that about 75 million Americans had high blood pressure; in late 2017, updated guidelines by the American Heart Association upped that number to more than 100 million, according to CBS News — more than half of all U.S. adults. The World Health Organization says that 1.13 billion people are affected worldwide.

Dairy products have pre-

viously been found to show positive correlation with cardiovascular health, according to a write up by research news website Science Daily, but some scientists hypothesize that yogurt in particular may have its own, independent benefits.

In addition to carrying healthy doses of vital nutrients, Greek yogurt in particular can be a good source of protein for those attempting to lose weight. It can also help aid the immune system and fight the flu, according to The Mercury News.

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6

7 CLASSIFIEDS

MARCH 1 – MARCH 7, 2018

Everybody hates you.

You don’t see bullying like this every day.

Your kids do.

Teach your kids how to

be more than a bystander.

New research shows that witnessing traumatic events — like domestic violence, shootings, or even fighting — can impact the physical development of a child’s brain. Learn how your everyday gestures can help reverse the effects.

Learn how at

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WAYS FOR YOU TO STAY POSITIVE

IMPROVING HER MOOD

7

M SPORTS AYOR

MARCH 1 – MARCH 7, 2018 DECEMBER 14 - 20, 2006

guard before, which affected my scoring. Last year, we had a point guard. I accepted the role and did my part to make us better.”

Some other key contributors for the Knights include juniors in 6-foot, 1-inch forward Michael Highsmith (13 ppg, 9 rpg) in the post along with guards Chauncy Williams and Dominiq Northington, who helped with shooting and ball handling.

The team ball mentality made this year’s squad special from teams in the past. Halifax averaged 13 assists per game as a team.

“The last time that we were in the playoffs we had a few kids that were college bound. In recent years, we had a player who could score 20 points and we just put pieces around them. This year we played eight deep with two to four players who could score in double figures as well as two or three guys who could grab double digit rebounds for us,” noted Dougherty.

Little press

PHOTOS COURTESY OF HALIFAX ACADEMY

Halifax Academy players (in black) defend Calvary Christian Academy players during the district 2A-3 semifinal game earlier this month. Halifax won and advanced to the district championship propelling them to the postseason.

Halifax recaps historic season

BY ANDREAS BUTLER DAYTONA TIMES

The Halifax Academy Knights’ record-breaking season ended with a loss to Odessa’s Keystone Prep in the first round of the Class 2A playoffs on Feb. 22.

Halifax went 22-8, winning the most games in school history and made the playoffs for the first time in six years.

“We just had a good group of returners. The kids also worked hard and really bought into a team first mentality. We had players doing things to do what it took for us to get better,” said Shamus Dougherty, the boys’ head basketball coach and the school’s athletic director.

Dougherty has headed the program for the past 15 years.

‘We got a taste’ Winning games and making the playoffs was an awesome experience for the players.

The Knights’ success flew truly under the radar with little if any publicity.

Dougherty admits, “It frustrates the kids sometimes seeing everyone else recognized. The bigger schools get more press.

Father Lopez is the only small school that really got press with a good team. We only get box scores. I think it kind of helped our kids get to a higher standard.

We just kept winning and accepted the underdog role. They got a chip on their shoulder.”

Halifax fielded a team that could shoot but lacked both a goto player and size.

“We shot the ball well from the outside. We didn’t have a go-to guy, but we had a few capable scorers, which made it difficult for teams to defend us. On the flip side, with our lack of size and our post players being just 6’1” and 6’3”, respectively, we struggled against bigger teams especially in the post season,” Dougherty explained.

‘Got better’

Above left: The Knights won a school-record 22 games and made it to the playoffs for the first time in six years. Above right: Halifax defenders Michael Highsmith (34) and Terrell (10) play zone defense during a recent game against Calvary Christian Academy.

“I think they enjoyed it and it opened their eyes despite the traveling. We lost to bigger teams – not just better skill-wise. We now see what it takes to get better. We have a lot to work for. We can’t be complacent,” Dougherty remarked.

Junior guard Terrell Franklin echoed, “It was a wonderful experience breaking the school wins record and going to the playoffs.

We got to see how the tough teams were away from our area. We got a taste. I think we should be ready and fired up for next year.”

Key contributors Franklin (14 ppg, 4 apg) transitioned from shooting guard to point guard this season and led the team.

He said, “It was tough. I had to do a new role. I never played point

The season wasn’t all smooth sailing for Halifax.

Franklin said, “We actually started slow and didn’t really know each other that well. We did some things on and off the court, which bonded us and built our chemistry. Then we grew as a team and got better.”

Can the Knights build upon this year’s success for a bright future?

“I think we have a good corps of returning players next year with four juniors and an eightgrader who found his way into the rotation. We also have a few freshmen that could play bigger roles next season,” Dougherty added.

Wade ‘can’t put into words’ school victim being buried in his jersey

BY IRA WINDERMAN SUN SENTINEL/TNS

Dwyane Wade swallowed hard, just as South Florida has done for two weeks now, because this time the Feb. 14 Parkland shootings at Marjory Stoneman Douglas High School hit particularly close to home.

With sweat still dripping onto his workout jersey after the Miami Heat completed their Monday practice at AmericanAirlines Arena, Wade addressed a part of his basketball fame that left him emotionally drained, a tribute that he wished never was needed.

Earlier, Wade had learned that the parents of slain 17-year-old Joaquin Oliver revealed that their son was buried Feb. 17 in a Wade No. 3 Heat jersey, his parents discussing that decision on the Univision talk show “Al Punto.’’

Emotional response Oliver became a naturalized American citizen in January 2017, months after Wade had departed the Heat, following his first 13 NBA seasons, to sign with his hometown Chicago Bulls.

Then, after starting this season with the Cleveland Cavaliers, Wade returned to the Heat just six days before Oliver, who moved to the United States with his family at age 3, was gunned down.

“You really can’t put that in words,” Wade said in a measured tone while seated at the west end of the team’s practice court on the second level of AmericanAirlines Arena.

He added, “I don’t even know the word for it. Like I re-tweeted on Twitter, I said, ‘You’re going to make me cry.’ It’s emotional even thinking about that, that his parents felt that burying him in my

jersey is something that he wanted. I take a lot of pride in what I’ve done in this state and what I’ve meant for the youth, so I appreciate that.”

Close to home Among friends at Douglas High School, Oliver was known as “Guac,” a moniker that appeared on his Instagram account. His interests: football, basketball, the Venezuelan national soccer team, urban graffiti and hip-hop.

The tragedy hit particularly close to Wade, with his two sons attending school in Broward County, at American Heritage in Plantation.

It was the second time in two days that Wade emotionally discussed the shootings.

Tribute to victims Prior to Saturday’s victory over the visiting Memphis Grizzlies, the Heat offered a video tribute to each of the 17 lost in shootings, as well as a moment of silence.

Players from both teams held a Stoneman Douglas banner at midcourt, with Wade addressing the crowd.

“Tonight we honor the 17 lives that were tragically lost in Parkland,” Wade said to the crowd.

“We applaud the fearless students that are fighting for their lives. We also make sure that their voices are heard around gun safety. You are our nation’s inspiration. We salute you and we support you.”

It was the Heat’s first home game since the shootings at the Parkland high school. The team will play with a “MSD” patch on the left shoulder of their uniforms for the balance of the season.

Joaquin Oliver, 17, was a victim of the shooting at Marjory Stoneman Douglas High School.

The Miami Heat’s Dwyane Wade (3) reacts after blocking a shot in the fourth quarter against the Milwaukee Bucks at the AmericanAirlines Arena in Miami on Feb. 9.

DAVID SANTIAGO/EL NUEVO HERALD/TNS

R8

7COMMUNITY NEWS

MARCH 1 – MARCH 7, 2018

What to know about beach season in Volusia SPECIAL TO THE DAYTONA TIMES

While Volusia County beach officials want visitors to have an enjoyable experience, they also want visitors to have a safe experience and offer some important reminders: • Alcohol and disposable cups are prohibited on the beach.

• Always swim in front of a staffed lifeguard tower.

• Parents should accompany minor children in the water even if they know how to swim.

• Beach drivers must have one front window down and headlights on at all times.

• Texting while driving is prohibited, and cell phone use is discouraged.

• When driving on the beach, observe the 10 mph speed limit and watch for pedestrians and wildlife.

the waiting list. The beach wheelchairs are available at the following lifeguard stations: • Flagler Avenue, New Smyrna Beach • Dunlawton Avenue, Daytona Beach Shores • Beach Headquarters, Daytona Beach • Cardinal Avenue, Daytona Beach

lawton Avenue or Third Avenue, beachgoers are encouraged to travel north or south of these locations for alternative beach ramps, which may not be as congested.

Less busy ramps allow for easier access and parking.

• For beach maps, iPhone users can download the beach navigator app. Android users can visit www.volusia.org/beach.

• Beachgoers should anticipate intermittent or lengthy closures of vehicle access ramps at times (possibly one to two hours during high tide, although some may be able to remain open). To help offset this, beachgoers should plan to be at the beach early.

• They are encouraged to consider off-beach parking, which is available at designated locations from Ormond-by-the-Sea to Bethune Beach.

Parking and driving • Visitors should arrive early as parking fills early.

• All vehicles must drive and park on the east side of conservation poles.

• Due to soft sand, the area south of Granada Boulevard has an area limited to four-wheel drive only.

• Vehicles should only take one spot.

• No belongings, tents or other items should be between vehicles in the parking area.

• Beachgoers should never sit, lie or camp between vehicles in the parking areas.

• Parents should always hold children’s hands when crossing the traffic lane.

• Parents with small children may want to opt for one of the county’s offbeach parking lots in a traffic-free beach area.

Beach passes

Beach litter Beachgoers should leave only footprints and remove all items, especially trash, they bring to the beach.

Items left on the beach can create obstacles and hazards for emergency workers, pedestrians and wildlife.

Trash and recycle cans are placed at regular intervals along the beach, and roving carts will be canvassing the beach to assist with the collection of garbage.

Access to beach When using primary thoroughfares to access the beach such as Granada Boulevard, International Speedway Boulevard, Dun-

Vehicle access is $20 daily beach entry per vehicle (one free re-entry/day/ same vehicle).

Annual beach passes can be bought and renewed online at www. volusiabeachpass.com or at a staffed access ramp.

Passes are designed to last several years, can be mounted on the exterior of the windshield making it tint friendly, and are easier to renew annually.

Annual passes are available at the same rates for 2017. Annual beach passes are $25 for Volusia County residents and $100 for nonresidents.

County inlet parks passes are available for $20 for

Rip currents and water safety

residents and visitors. Annual beach and county inlet park combo passes are available for $45 for residents and $120 for visitors.

The renewable annual combo pass for the beach and county parks is available for free for people who have a permanent handi-

capped or disabled veteran’s plate. The passes are non-transferable between vehicles.

Wheelchairs on beach For persons needing assistance, beach wheel-

chairs are available for use from any of the four lifeguard stations. There is a limited supply, and they are available first come, first served at no charge.

People can check them out from a lifeguard station and use them for a couple of hours, depending on

• Rip current conditions in the open water are always a possibility.

• Check with the lifeguard and the back of the lifeguard tower for important information about rip current activity and the rip threat level.

• In case of a jellyfish sting, go to the nearest staffed lifeguard tower or flag down a Beach Safety vehicle for assistance.

For more information about beach safety, contact Beach Safety headquarters at 386-239-6414 or visit www.volusia.org/beach.

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