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YEAR 44 NO. 20
MAY 16 - MAY 22, 2019
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B-CU degree a long time coming Jenetta Lowery and son Jocori gradated from BethuneCookman on May 11. COURTESY OF LOWERY FAMILY
Hundreds of graduates include a determined mom and her youngest son. BY ANDREAS BUTLER DATYONA TIMES
It took Jenetta Lowery 33 years to earn her bachelor’s degree after several attempts. Something always stopped her, but at age 55 she got it done. Lowery was determined not to quit and even urged her two sons – Justin, 26, and Jocori, 22, to do the same. On May 11, she and Jocori were two of the 330 students bestowed degrees at Bethune-Cookman University’s spring commence-
DAYTONA TIMES / 40TH ANNIVERSARY
Ex-felons purged; ‘Respect’ year-round
ment. Justin will graduate within a year. “I went back after many years. I tried many times but something always came up. I decided in 2014 when my boys started, I wanted to do it. Words cannot explain how I feel,’’ she told the Daytona Times. “It’s awesome to also walk with one of my children. I’ve always raised my kids to finish what they started. I couldn’t tell them without doing it myself.’’
‘A lifetime goal’ She earned her bachelor’s degree in liberal studies while Jocori’s bachelor’s is in criminal justice. Jocori said receiving his degree was “a great accomplishment for
me and a lifetime goal.’’ He added, “It gives me better opportunities in life, especially as an African-American. It’s more special and motivating doing it with mom. We pushed and supported each other.”
Took online courses Lowery lives in Jacksonville, where she works full time as referral coordinator at the Jacksonville Orthopaedic Institute at Baptist Health, a health care provider in Northeast Florida. She and her husband, Keith Lowery, have been married for 33 years. She took classes online and had to adjust to technology. Her sons live in Daytona and went the traditional route of taking See DEGREE, Page 2
Section 8 applicants must update forms by June 7 SPECIAL TO THE DAYTONA TIMES
Volusia County residents who have applied for the Housing Choice Voucher (Section 8) Program through the county are asked to contact the Community Assistance Division to update their information. Pre-application status verification forms will be mailed to the 1,377 residents on the waiting list on May 17. Applicants must complete the form and return it to Community Assistance by Friday, June 7. If they do not respond by the deadline, they will be removed from the waiting list.
Federally funded The Housing Choice Voucher Program is a federally funded rental assistance program de-
signed to help very-low-income families, the elderly and disabled to obtain decent, safe and sanitary housing at an affordable price in the private market. Participants are free to choose any housing that meets the requirements of the program.
No new applications Volusia County is not accepting new Section 8 applications at this time. The last time the waiting list was opened was in November 2018. According to the county’s website information about the waiting list, it is maintained by the date and time applications were received. Verified local preferences will be given priority. The county’s Community Assistance staff members will conSee FORM, Page 2
Jakyra McCloud (wearing crown) is the new Miss Jabberwock. The runners-up are Kaliyah Lockhart, Asia Hubbert and Ja’Niya Hawkins.
Daytona Deltas crown Miss Jabberwock
Fifteen years ago in 2004, the Daytona Times reported on then-Gov. Jeb Bush’s mistake-ridden efforts to develop a list to purge ex-felons from the state’s voting rolls, and Mayor Yvonne Scarlett-Golden’s “It’s All About Respect” campaign becoming a permanent city theme for Daytona Beach’s special events.
ALSO INSIDE
The Daytona Beach Alumnae Chapter of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority presented “Miss Jabberwock 2019: A Queen Like Me’’ on May 11. Jakyra McCloud, an 11thgrade student at Mainland High School, was crowned Miss Jabberwock. The first runner-up was Asia Hubbert, the second runner-up was Kaliyah Lockhart and Ja’Niya Hawkins was the third runner-up. The sold-out event was held at
COMMENTARY: SUPPORT OUR TEACHERS TO COMMEMORATE BROWN | PAGE 4 SPORTS: WILDCATS WIN MEAC TOURNAMENT; WILL FACE FSU IN NCAA GAME | PAGE 5
the News-Journal Center at Daytona State College. The sorority also featured its first Volusia County Got Talent Competition consisting of performances in music, song and dance from talented community residents. Amariya Lopez, a dancer, walked away with the trophy in that competition. Proceeds from this event are earmarked for scholarships and other Delta community service projects.
7 FOCUS
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MAY 16 – MAY 22, 2019
Health department selects employees of the year
80 youngsters honored for good grades
Adalgisa Adjodha, a native of the Dominican Republic, has been named Employee of the Year by Volusia County Health Department (Volusia CHD) employees. Employees also have selected Sarika Gajera as Non-Career Service Employee of the Year and Diane Byerly as Supervisor of the Year. “Through this annual process, our employees recognize staff members who go above and beyond in their duties,” said Patricia Boswell, Volusia CHD administrator. “It’s a great honor for someone to be nominated by their peers because they understand the demands of the job better than anyone within the agency.”
Boys & Girls Clubs of Volusia/Flagler Counties celebrated its annual Honor Roll Banquet at the Daytona 500 Club on May 8. Eighty members, grades 3 through 12, received awards for their achievements in school. The event was sponsored by Jeep Beach and Daytona International Speedway. Lisa Kollar, Dean of Students at Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University, was the speaker.
Customer service expert A health support specialist in the Women, Infants and Children’s program, Adjodha joined the agency in January 2013. In her nomination, her co-workers cited Adjodha’s consistent initiative to ensure clients receive good customer service. She has requested additional training, assumed additional duties and found solutions to meet the needs of her clients, including providing information on services available from other agencies, as needed.
Team player Gajera, an information technology systems project analyst, always portrays a positive attitude and is a team player, according to her nomination. As part of her duties, she handles SharePoint sites for four county health departments. From the city of Amreli in the state of Gujarat, India, Gajera moved to the United States in 2011. She joined the Volusia CHD in June 2016.
Top supervisor Information technology/data center di-
Daytona Deliverance to honor pastor, wife
Volusia County Health Department director Patricia Boswell, second from left, congratulates the agency’s employees of the year. They are, from left: Adalgisa Adjodha, Sarika Gajera and Diane Byerly. The trio were nominated and selected by their peers. rector Diane Byerly was nominated as the supervisor of the year by her employees. Byerly’s staff expressed appreciation for her willingness to allow them to use their collective and creative talents to find solutions, according to the nomination. She encourages thinking out of the box, sharing her enthusiasm for her work, and not giving in to defeat. Byerly has worked
for the agency for more than 19 years and supervises 23 team members. All Volusia CDH staff members may be involved in the nomination of their peers. An employee committee reviews and then ranks the formal nominations based on how well they demonstrate the agency’s values: Innovation, collaboration, accountability, responsiveness and excellence.
A first pastoral appreciation titled “A New Beginning…Greater Works Shall Ye Do’’ is scheduled for Sunday, May 19 at the 10:45 a.m. .and 4 p.m. services at Daytona Deliverance Church of God. The church is located at 601 George W. Engram Blvd., Daytona Beach. At the services, the church will honor its new leaders, Bishop Zannie L McNeil Jr., and his wife Lisa.
Daytona Beach native makes writing debut in book series SPECIAL TO THE DAYTONA TIMES
Financial expert and business auditor Latiera Streeter is unveiling the truth behind a portion of her success in the newest volume of “Dear Fear: 10 Powerful Lessons on Living Your Best Life on the Other Side of Fear.’’ The Daytona Beach native and Mainland High School alum is one of 10 new authors contributing to the third volume of the groundbreaking series and movement led by author and entrepreneur Tiana Patrice. “Dear Fear” encourages each author to dive deep into their story and share it in order to reach back and pull someone else forward.
‘Power in forward motion’ In her writing debut, Streeter proclaims: “Fear, I will not let you try to rationalize and barter with me to lower [my expectations] and then ultimately give up. For there is power in forward motion… I’ve learned to embrace the beauty of imperfection.’’ With more than a decade of professional experience in the financial sector, Streeter has seen her fair share of challenges – from clients too comfortable with outdated accounting tools to a lack of internal controls that leave a business’ financial records in disarray.
A ‘perfection’ problem Latiera Streeter is a Mainland High School alum and one of 10 authors contributing to a new book series.
DEGREE from Page 1 classes on campus. “Working full time and being married to a minister is challenging. The hardest thing was adapting to the technology. When I was last in school, we didn’t have the internet, iPads, laptops, etc.,” she noted. “Also, it’s more work online than in a classroom, which I didn’t have time to do. I had to discipline and stay on top of each assignment.”
A proud son Jocori is proud of his mom’s accomplishment. “She took off so many years from pursuing her degree. She sacrificed her college to take care of her fam-
ily, especially raising me and my brother. I admire her and I’m proud. It’s great that she could go back and finish,” he said. He also faced his own challenges finishing school, working several jobs like his older brother Justin, who will graduate within the year. “I had plenty of challenges. I was distracted. I had peer pressure but was able to get back focused. I did at times lose sight of what I was doing in school, but I was able to make it through,” Jocori related.
Advice from Crump During the May 11 morning commencement service that consisted of students from the School of Liberal Arts and School of Nursing, renowned civil rights attorney Benjamin Crump encouraged the students to
However, the challenges presented by clients have never compared to the expectations of her family and her natural tendency to strive for perfection.
stand up and contribute to the nation and world. “My mother always told me that life isn’t fair. Life is hard. If you don’t bring anything to the table, don’t expect anyone to let you sit at the table,” he told the graduates.
‘Best and brightest’ Crump assured graduates that they do bring something to the table. “All of you represent the legacy of Dr. (Mary McLeod) Bethune who turned the city dump to a diamond mine which has produced those who have contributed to the world,” he remarked. “You are our best and brightest that we have to offer as a people to this nation and world.’’ He stressed, “Do what is right. If we don’t stand up for our people, no one else will. You must be the ones
“For as long as I can remember, my mother worked to provide a great life for me. My grandfather showered me with love. My grandmother showed me the importance of having pride in myself. Collectively, my family instilled in me what was both an honor and a burden,’’ explained Streeter, who now lives in Upper Marlboro, Maryland. “In me, they saw the person who would do better, go farther and achieve greater than anything they could imagine. At 5, that’s not a problem. At 15, the weight of those expectations bred fear and, to beat fear, I consistently aimed for perfection.”
On dealing with loss Now 35, Streeter has experienced both sides of fear: falling prey to it and using it as motivation to propel her life forward.
who do this.”
‘A unique role’ During the afternoon graduation service, Johanna LeBlanc, a B-CU alum and U.S. State Department
In “Dear Fear,’’ she unpacks the pitfalls of trying the meet others’ expectations and perfectionism. She also shares the impact and self doubt that comes with failing on a public stage. Before becoming the queen of North Carolina Agricultural & Technical State University, an historically Black university, she campaigned for and lost other titles in her Daytona Beach community and the college campus. Each loss was in front of an audience of people she knew and respected, causing her to question her worth and the validity of the expectations her family placed on her. “I was devastated each time I lost,” said Streeter. “But, I put on a smile and pretended like I was fine. The image everyone else had of me demanded I wear a mask that held a perpetual smile. The truth was that I was breaking under the weight of these expectations. I had to break out of that mold but I had no idea where to begin.”
Released last month Patrice noted, “The response we are receiving from ‘Dear Fear’ is amazingly overwhelming. My vision was to give women a voice and visibility, and to liberate us all from the things fear has convinced us we could not do. “This book is where women from all walks of life can come and be one, with one mission: To live their best life on the other side of fear.” “Dear Fear” was released across the country in April and is available online at www.LatieraStreeter.com.
adviser, stressed the important role graduates must play in shaping the world. “My travels around the world have shown me that the struggle to maintain democracy is a worldwide
FORM from Page 1 tact applicants in writing during their placement on the waiting list to ask applicants to verify their continued waiting list status at least once a year and offer an opportunity to interview.
Community Assistance help Once funding is available and an applicant’s name reaches the top of the list, the Community Assistance staff will offer the applicant an opportunity
phenomenon. In a world with so much injustice, you have a unique role to play to ensuring the world is a better place for the next generation,” she told the graduates.
to interview to determine eligibility for assistance. If Community Assistance tries to contact a person and the notification is returned due to a failure to submit a change of address in writing, the name will be removed from the waiting list. Community Assistance staffers cannot provide an estimate of when a person will be selected. Applicants can check their waiting list placement by visiting https://section8.vcgov.org and clicking “Get My Position.’’ For more information, contact staff at 386-736-5955 or send email to Section8wl@volusia.org.
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M A YNEWS OR
MAY 16 – MAY 22, 2019 COMMUNITY DECEMBER 14 - 20, 2006
Dancers from Mexico showcase talent, culture at local event Members of the Instituto Campechano’s Ballet Folklorico – with frequent changes in costumes – presented their traditional dances, captivating the audience May 10 at the African American Cultural Society (AACS). The nine-member team of the institute – made up of juniors and seniors from the Campeche, Mexico college – got their day, as well as changing up their costumes for the May 4 to May 12 presentations in Volusia County. It was an attention-grabber from the students of Campeche in the Yucatan Peninsula on the Gulf of Mexico. A news brief from the AACS read that the secular folk dances developed out of a diverse, cultural amalgamation of Spanish, Indian, PALM COAST French and AfroCOMMUNITY Cuban dance and NEWS music. “They are a beauJEROLINE D. MCCARTHY tiful group of young people, and they’ve been very respectful of their visit. For most of them, it’s their first visit to the United States,” said Dixie Blake, president of the Sister Cities Association of Volusia County.
Members of the Instituto Campechano’s Ballet Folklorico developed a diverse, cultural amalgamation of Spanish, Indian, French, and Afro-Cuban dance and music.
Barbara Greene and Nellie Davis stepped out in style on Mother’s Day.
Exuding Mother’s Day splendor were Charlotte Prince, Audrey Thorpe, Evangelist Essie Wilson and Carolyn Able.
Making a fashion statement on Mother’s Day were Sonia White, Rose Williams, Leona Fowlkes and Esther Hamilton.
A bill passed, proclaiming the second Sunday of May as Mother’s Day. Jarvis officially commemorated Mother’s Day in 1908 at St. Andrew’s Methodist Church in Grafton, West Virginia. She regretted requesting the holiday because it has become too commercial, and so, she called for its recall. But, among the sentiments and the loving acts of kindness destined for mothers on Mother’s Day, the mothers also enjoy stepping out in style, like the mothers featured on this page. •••
As always, remember our prayers for the sick, afflicted, the prodigal son, or daughter, and the bereaved.
PHOTOS BY JEROLINE D. MCCARTHY
A warm welcome The association provides student exchange and scholarships, and promotes cultural understanding, appreciation, and awareness through outreach with Stetson University, Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University, and Daytona State College. For the other mutually beneficial projects, the organization pairs with students from Bayonne, France; and Diamantina, Brazil. Students are put up by host families, and for the presentation at the African American Cultural Society, Palm Coasters John and Sybil Lucas welcomed the performers. Setting the tone and tenor of welcoming them at the AACS were president Joseph Matthews and the treasurer/ project manager, Reinhold Schlieper. Impressed by the joy and beauty radiating from the performers’ eyes, former Florida State Poets Association President Joseph Cavanaugh wrapped up the show with a signature tribute in English and Spanish, and titling his poem, “The Eyes of the Dancers.”
Art gallery event to feature Ryan The Art of Carnival will engage artist Weldon Ryan in a Meet and Greet at the Bronze Kingdom African Gallery, May 23, 6 to 9 p.m., at 3201 East Colonial Drive, Orlando. Complementing the exhibit is an art tour, a questionand-answer session, wine and cheese made available, and an exclusive 15% discount on the works by the artist.
Tribute to moms Activist Anna Maria Jarvis, determined to hone in on her mother’s request to celebrate Mother’s Day, wrote Congress following her mother’s death in 1905.
Celebrations Birthday wishes to Gillard S. “Tre’s’’ Glover III, May 18; Joy Eurie, May 19; Donna M. Gray-Banks, Ernest “Toney the Barber” Robinson, May 21; and Betty White, May 22. Happy anniversary to David and Joy Eurie, May 16; Arthur and Loretta Pete, Stanley and Phyllis Henderson, May 19; and Sidney and Violet Honeyghan, May 20.
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7 EDITORIAL
MAY 16 – MAY 22, 2019
Support our teachers to commemorate Brown Sixty-five years ago, the Supreme Court ruled, in the Brown v. Board of Education case, that the Plessy v. Ferguson (1896) doctrine of "separate but equal" was unconstitutional. That ruling ended legal segregation in public facilities, but it did not necessarily accomplish its goals in terms of school desegregation. Indeed, Richard Rothstein, the historian who is a distinguished fellow at the Economic Policy Institute and at the University of California, Berkeley School of Law, wrote that in 2014, Black students are "more racially and socioeconomically isolated" than at any time since 1970, when this data was first available.
Taking their time After Brown passed, there were some integration gains through busing and magnet schools, but the South resisted Brown because a second case ordered desegregation "with all deliberate speed” – a euphemism for taking your sweet time. I attended a segregated school in Moss Point, Miss., in 1969, 15 years after the passage of Brown. In 2016, Cleveland, Miss., finally closed its segregated Black high school and renamed Cleveland High School, the White school, Cleveland Central High School. Now the district is in court because a young Black woman was denied the salutatorian honors she earned so that a young White man, with a lower GPA, could have the honor.
JULIANNE MALVEAUX TRICE EDNEY NEWS WIRE
Brown made history, but it was an imperfect tool to tackle racial inequities in the public school system because these inequities are anchored in residential patterns and funding sources. The Brown case made history, but it was an imperfect tool to tackle racial inequities in the public school system because these inequities are anchored in residential patterns and funding sources. When schools are funded with property taxes, those who live in wealthier districts will simply have better education, perpetuating inequalities.
Why blame teachers? It has been trendy to blame teachers for unequal education outcomes, even as these teacher's responsibilities expand with increased regulation, testtaking, and unrealistic requirements around engagement with
A day of celebration ‘by any means necessary’ Grab your African flags, your sage and your freshest outfit! Sunday is Malcolm X Day all across the globe and the party has officially begun. In Sydney, Australia; Tokyo, Japan; Amsterdam, and even Brazil are throwing official parades, educational seminars and community events. More than 16 states are participating here in the U.S.
Second event For the second year in a row, my incredible team will be hosting our Malcolm X Day Community Bash. Kicking off at 12 noon and lasting until evening, it is the unofficial kickoff for summer here in Daytona Beach. Hosted by the iconic and multitalented Kaynah Lassiter, with assistance from DJ Jimbo Bush and ALL-N-Records on sounds, the
RELL BLACK GUEST COLUMNIST
all-day celebration will consist of live entertainment, free food and drinks as well as fun and games for the whole family. Like each one of our programs, we like to have a mix of party and education to truly leave an impact. Blessing the stage is an eclectic mix of some of the most talented individuals throughout the state of Florida. Vocalists Antoinette Brown, Nfrwi Hall, Cynthia Wynn, J’avion Mcvadian and Mark Refour. Poets including Laqwonna “Lady Q” Glaster
Let’s pass the Equal Rights Amendment We get so consumed with the train wreck in the White House that we forget or miss important things going on in the nation and the world. Something good and historic happened in the U.S. Congress a few days ago. Chairman Jerry Nadler held a hearing on the Equal Rights Amendment (ERA)! That should be so ordinary that it shouldn’t even make the news. Yet, it had been 36 years since such a hearing had taken place.
Just a hearing This wasn’t even a vote to make the ERA law, but women were actually excited that a hearing was held. It was historic. I had the honor of being one of several
DR. E. FAYE WILLIAMS, ESQ. TRICE EDNEY NEWS WIRE
speakers for the press conference that followed. Women actually celebrated the fact that the issue got a hearing! As much as we talk about equality in this country, and as much as some of our leaders go around the world preaching to leaders in other nations about human rights, women in this nation still don’t have equal rights in the Constitution! But women
parents and others. A school district in South Carolina, for example, requires that teachers respond to parent emails within 24 hours. The burden of one teacher's 10-12 hour days became so onerous that she quit her teaching job in the middle of the school year. Many questioned her commitment to children, but she fought fiercely to maintain her sanity and some semblance of a quality of life. Teaching is not supposed to be trench warfare. It is supposed to be joyful for both students and teachers. There is nothing more gratifying than to watch children gleefully grasp a concept, read a page, solve a math problem, or give a speech. But that sense of gratification is diminished when bureaucracy chips the joy away, or when a teacher has to take on outside work to pay her bills. Teachers have made national headlines as they seek supplemental income, driving Uber or Lyft, moonlighting as food servers, taking on side jobs as tutors, and living two or three in an apartment meant for one to save money. Teachers really have to want to do it – they earn about a quarter less than their counterparts who have the same education, according to the Economic Policy Institute. We have been underpaying teachers for at least the last two decades! The nonsense we celebrated during the recent Teachers’ Appreciation Week is a charade. If you want to appreciate teachers, pay them! Don't offer folks two-for-one burritos at
as well as Sista Tria hailing all the way from Tampa. Jacksonville hip-hop duo Von/ Clutch will be blazing the stage as well as entertainers Ima Jackson and Harmoni Rose. Local hip-hop superstars Rufis, Shake Back, Mg Cue, Ko Coke, Yella Page Keebo, Marisohandsome, Amani, GII Code, Finesse Kurt, Banie Blue, Percy Hammercy, and 10-year-old rising star TPhresh will be in the building, truly bringing this celebration to life.
Motivational speakers Special guest speakers including local leaders as well as the family of fallen king Shykari Willis, who lost his life during an altercation with a Daytona Beach police officer, will be on hand to deliver powerful and motivational words to a community who needs strength now more than ever. If you’re a fan of the culture, good food, and positive community events, this is the one you truly don’t wanna miss. No matter the incredible talent, amazing volunteers and ac-
aren’t giving up. It’s time for women to stop asking to be a part of the Constitution. We must demand our rights. Women must demand of the current Congress to make us a part of the Constitution or elect people who are willing to do so. Supporter can be men or women, but we must not continue to accept second-class citizenship. Women brought millions of other women to the Women’s March on Washington in January 2017. We must bring millions more in 2020.
Fomenting ‘rebellion’ We need more of our sisters to heed the words of Abigail Adams when she wrote her husband a letter that said: “I long to hear that you have declared an independency and, by the way, in the new code of laws which I suppose it will be necessary for you to make, I desire you would remember the ladies and be more
VISUAL VIEWPOINT: THE TRUMP ‘OBSTRUCTION’
WOLVERTON, BATTLE GROUND, WA
Chipotle or other food fringes when what teachers need is fair pay. Don't give teachers apples and faux appreciation when the teachers who graciously accept your apples and recognition are hustling outside the classroom to make ends meet.
Taking action Teachers are striking all over the country, even in places like West Virginia where we would least expect it because they are desperate to be valued. Paying them less than they are worth is disrespectful. Sixty-five years ago, the Supreme Court tackled segregation in our nation's school systems. The Brown decision changed the law, but not the structure of racial gaps in education. And it did not foresee the many ways our nation's teachers have been disrespected and disadvantaged by the structural indifference to
tivities planned for the day, we must truly never forget the purpose of days like these: education, liberation and empowerment. Celebrating history and culture are one of the founding principles of being an American. Never forget that Black and African history is world history. This day is so important because it reinforces the idea that children can aspire to be excellent in their communities and become leaders in their own right. The most primary principle of Brother Malcolm’s vision was community first. Focusing on the struggles and cracks and let’s brainstorm, with our own resources, ways in which we can create solutions. Community Healing Project Inc, the nonprofit I founded three years ago, thrives on the ability to connect culture, families, education and unity in a way that has allowed us to travel the country doing outreach and changing communities.
generous and favorable to them than your ancestors. “Do not put such unlimited power into the hands of the husbands. Remember, all men would be tyrants if they could. If particular care and attention is not paid to the ladies, we are determined to foment a rebellion, and will not hold ourselves bound by any laws in which we have no voice or representation.” Where is that spirit among more women today? We’ve asked too gently. Most often we hear the gentler form of Abigail speaking to her husband to “remember the ladies,” but she said more and sounds like she had a lot in common with Michelle Obama, who was very influential in her husband’s life.
passage. If 94 percent of the people support equality for women in the Constitution, what is it that prevents passage? I fear that too many women don’t understand that we cannot successfully bring a case that is gender-based in federal court. The ERA would give us that right. The ERA gives us the real possibility of succeeding in federal court with cases of hate crimes against us evident in so much derogatory and misogynist rap music. In the case of Black women, we’d have a shot at winning on both race and gender. We have as much to gain with ERA as anyone else. Let’s get more involved in its passage soon!
Why not now?
Dr. E. Faye Williams is national chair of the National Congress of Black Women, Inc. Contact her via www.nationalcongressbw.org.
The ERA did pass in the 1970s, but didn’t get enough state votes to ratify the amendment when an arbitrary deadline was placed on
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. 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
rived in the states in 1619. That is 400 traumatizing and transformative years that removed us from our original culture, history, language and beliefs. We’ve been led to believe that we were savages, swinging on vines and practicing witchcraft. What they didn’t tell you is that we were alchemists, scientists, doctors, architects, and most importantly rulers of our own kingdoms. A lost and almost erased history which has been removed from our textbooks, and pop culture in general. But with programs and events such as Malcolm X Day, those images and memories will never leave the minds of the next generation of leaders right here in our community. Therefore we celebrate a day of Black unity, a day of Black love, a day of Black history, and a day of Black power, “BY ANY MEANS NECESSARY!”
According to historical texts, the first enslaved Africans ar-
Dr. Glenn W. Cherry, Sales Manager
W W W. DAY T O N AT I M E S .C O M
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.
Rell Black is an award-winning activist, blogger and the founder of Community Healing Project Inc.
400 years
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.
classrooms that serve poor and Black students. Sixty-five years after Brown, the achievement gap is persistent. Our nation's wealth gap is a function of that achievement gap, and the treatment of our nation's teachers is connected to the wealth and achievement gap. When we commemorate Brown, we must embrace the importance of adequately compensating teachers. In embracing our teachers, we support the children they are teaching and guiding. In ignoring issues of fair teacher compensation, we are abandoning our children!
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
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MAY 16 – MAY 22, 2019
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SPORTS
good place. We’re peaking at the right time,” noted Watten. Bermudez echoed, “We have momentum. We came together at the right time.
Back-to-back champs
Bethune-Cookman University’s women’s softball team are shown after winning the 2019 MEAC tournament title. The Wildcats won their second straight title, earning their second straight trip to the NCAA Tournament.
Wildcats win MEAC; will face FSU in NCAA tourney COMPILED BY ANDREAS BUTLER DAYTONA TIMES
A B-CU player lays down a bunt during a game in the MEAC Tournament. The Wildcats won the tournament and are headed to the NCAA Tournament.
Bethune-Cookman University won the Mid-Eastern Athletic Conference (MEAC) Softball Tournament Championship from May 8-11 and earned an automatic bid to the NCAA Tournament. B-CU (26-29) plays the defending national champion and national fourth-seeded squad Florida State University Seminoles (51-8) in the Tallahassee Regional on May 17. The game will air on ESPNU live at 2:30 p.m. “Florida State has always been strong. They hit well, have great speed and great pitching. They’ll be tough,” said B-CU Head Coach Laura Watten. Watten is headed to her eight NCAA Regional as coach of the
Wildcats and 11th overall as a coach. Also participating in the Tallahassee Regional will be South Carolina (36-17) and South Florida (40-17).
‘Nothing to lose’ The winner of the double elimination tournament advances to the NCAA Super Regionals, which will be held May 23-26. It’s also the first time B-CU will play in Tallahassee in a Regional since 2004. Last year, the team played in the NCAA Regionals in Gainesville. “It was either Florida State or Florida. It’s good to be in a different place. Last year I think our team was starstruck last season in Gainesville. This year feels a little bit different. I think we’ll be a different team,” noted Watten. Despite the challenge, the Wildcats believe in themselves. MEAC Pitcher of the Year Alexis Bermudez said, “It’s a challenge. We’re the underdog. We have nothing to lose.” B-CU has also won 14 of its last 18 games headed into the Regionals. “We’re playing well. We’re in a
The Wildcats won the MEAC tournament for the second consecutive season. During the four-day double elimination tournament from May 8 through May11, they won four of five games. On championship Saturday, they beat archrival Florida A&M University 11-5 to clinch the win after the Rattlers beat them 1-0 to force another game earlier that day. B-CU topped FAMU in the tournament finale for the second consecutive season. The rivals have played in six consecutive MEAC tournament championship games.
Key players B-CU outfielder converted catcher Sasha Killings was named the tournament’s Most Outstanding Player. She hit .313 for the tournament with five RBI’s. Teammates Alexis Bermudez and Cheyenne Smith also made the All-Tournament Team for BCU. Bermudez posted a 2.34 ERA with 19 strikeouts over the weekend while Smith hit .417 Brianna Sanders (.333BA) and Brianna Paysinger (.417BA) also played well for the Wildcats. The team also defeated Howard (9-1), Coppin State (8-0) and FAMU (5-4/9 innings) during the tournament. B-CU won consecutive MEAC titles for the first time since 20102012. It’s also the 11th MEAC title for the Wildcats and seventh for Watten. She is also 43-23 all-time against FAMU and 12-10 in the MEAC tournament. During the regular season, BCU went 13-2 in the MEAC, won the Southeastern Division title and picked up a win over then No. 17 Oregon in the Mary Nutter Classic earlier in the season.
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
BRONTE WITTPEN/TNS
Then-Florida Gators defensive lineman Jachai Polite (99) celebrates after tackling LSU Tigers quarterback Joe Burrow in a victory over LSU 27-19 on Oct. 6, 2018.
Locals sign with NFL teams
www.excellencewithoutexcuse.com
Ormond Beach native Jachai Polite has signed a $3.6-million-dollar contract with the New York Jets. Polite, a standout at the University of Florida and Mainland High, will get a $1.22 million signing bonus. The Jets took the defensive end/edge rusher in the second round of the NFL Draft last month. New Smyrna Beach native D’Cota Dixon signed a three-year $1.755 million deal with the Tampa Bay Buccaneers, including a $1,000 signing bonus according to reports. Dixon was a standout safety with Wisconsin. He also starred at New Smyrna Beach High School. Michael Colubiale, a Port Orange na-
D’Cota Dixon
Michael Colubiale
tive, former UCF tight end and Spruce Creek High standout, signed as an undrafted free agent with the Jacksonville Jaguars. His contract is valued at three years $1.755 million, according to www. spotrac.com
City offers pickleball The City of Daytona Beach’s Cultural & Leisure Services is offering pickleball free for adults. Play is offered at the Dickerson Community Center at 308 Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Blvd. on Wednesdays at 5:30. Instructors are available. Contact Hilary Rawley at 386-679-8821.
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7MAY 16 – MAY 22, 2019
YOUR BALLOT MUST BE RETURNED TO THE VOLUSIA COUNTY DEPARTMENT OF ELECTIONS OFFICE ON OR BEFORE MAY 21 BY 7 P.M. TO BE COUNTED.
FOR our roads FOR our waterways FOR our community
IT’S TIME TO VOTE! Insert the Secrecy Sleeve into the return envelope. Seal the return envelope, then sign it on the back with your name and address. Mail the return envelope. It doesn’t need a stamp. You or a friend can also drop the envelope off at Daytona Beach City Hall, the Volusia County Department of Elections office, or any municipal city hall in Volusia County.
All registered Volusia County voters will be mailed a ballot in an envelope. It will contain your ballot, a Secrecy Sleeve, and a return envelope. The ballot will only contain one question. Vote FOR or AGAINST the half-cent sales tax. After you vote, place the ballot in the Secrecy Sleeve.
QUESTIONS? CALL the Volusia County Department of Elections at 386-254-4690
Need more info on the sales tax? Call 386-671-8400 On the Web, go to HTTP://CODB.US/HALFCENT