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JUDGE GREG MATHIS: Justice refused for another African-American teenager? See page 4
Civil rights film festival starts March 8 at local theater
Butts Miracle Temple to honor co-pastor
SEE PAGE 3
East Central Florida’s Black Voice
SEE PAGE 3
FEBRUARY 27 - MARCH 5, 2014
YEAR 39 NO. 9
www.daytonatimes.com
No word on Midtown proposals Two firms vying for project to revitalize area BY ASHLEY D. THOMAS DAYTONA TIMES aysheldarcel@gmail.com
Midtown residents will have to wait a little longer to find out which firm is being pursued to complete the Midtown Master Plan. Joanne Flick, purchasing agent for the City of Daytona Beach, declined to go on the record to report the final scores of the two firms
vying to conduct the revitalization. The Midtown Redevelopment Services Board, the committee that chose the highest-ranking firm scored and ranked the two proposals at their Feb. 20, meeting.
‘Be transparent’ “Exciting things are on the verge of happening in Midtown and the residents of the community need to be kept informed of any developments, no matter how large or small,” said Mario
Henderson, a concerned Daytona Beach resident. “The residents of Midtown already have a distrust of local government because of a perception of being largely undervalued. The City of Daytona Beach should make every effort to operate in the Sunshine and be transparent with members of the community.”
Up to city manager Flick, the facilitator of the process, declined to give comment this week on
which firm scored the highest, saying that she’d rather not say anything at this time until City Manager Jim Chisholm makes his selection. It is just a recommendation and she didn’t want to “mislead anybody.” “He’s the only one who can legally make the selection,” she said, adding that, “Normally he (the city manager) goes with the committee’s recommendation.” Concerning the next step in the process, Flick explained that following his review of the commit-
tee’s suggestion, Chisholm will make a selection as to which firm to pursue and then a contract would be negotiated.
‘New era for Midtown’ The two firms that submitted proposals are Real Estate Research Consultants (RERC) of Orlando and Jones Lang LaSalle of Miami. As previously reported in the Daytona Times, the plan the two firms are vying to implement was designed
back in 2010 by Florida A&M University (FAMU) students and staff with input from the Midtown Redevelopment Area board, residents and businesses. Midtown residents have kept a watchful eye on the process. The vision of the plan is to “preserve the unique historic and cultural qualities of the African-American Midtown district while creating a new era for Midtown that is the model of an environmentally, economically, and socially sustainable community.”
BLACK HISTORY
Tubman-King shares how church got its name BY ASHLEY D. THOMAS DAYTONA TIMES aysheldarcel@gmail.com
PHOTOS BY DUANE FERNANDEZ SR./HARDNOTTS PHOTOGRAPHY
Daytona Beach Mayor Derrick Henry addresses the crowd at the start of the Daytona 500.
THE DAYTONA 500
“Pick me up.” This pair took in the sights and sounds of the race before the rain settled in.
Rained out, but not washed out Some fans would like to see big race happen on different weekend BY ASHLEY D. THOMAS DAYTONA TIMES aysheldarcel@gmail.com
“I feel like a wet dog,” Judy Einclart groaned as she and hundreds of others clad in ponchos were ushered through the JC Penny corridors of Volusia Mall Sunday around 3 p.m. Tornado watches loomed over Central Florida delaying “The Great American Race” for six hours and 22 minutes. The Daytona 500 is a 500-mile-long NASCAR Sprint Cup Series motor race held annually at
the Daytona International Speedway. “Every year it seems like something is happening at the Speedway. We were rained out in 2009 and had to wait until the evening in 2012 because of rain. Back in 2010 they had to stop the race because of a pothole.”
Always something Einclart knows her NASCAR. The race was postponed due to weather in both years and a pothole erupted on the track in 2010 delaying the
race for two hours. In 2012 rain caused the usual Sunday afternoon race to run on a Monday night for the first time. It ran in the evening hours again this year following the onslaught of rain. “We tried to save money on parking by parking at the mall, but I would have given another 40 bucks not to have to walk through all of this,” Einclart remarked, adding that she and her husband were heading back to the hotel but would venture out again when the race restarted. Please see 500, Page 7
Tubman-King Community Church celebrated Black History Month by sharing its own slice of history to congregants at last Sunday’s service. The church, like many in the area, holds a rich historic background but initially was not a predominantly Black congregation. Originally named First Congregational Church, the church was founded in 1877 and had been a congregation of Americans of European descent. In June 1985, members of the First Congregational Church voted to change their church name to Tubman-King Community Church. It gradually became an African-American church as the racial composition of the neighborhood surrounding the church changed. “I think that there is a deep, long, rich historical legacy at Tubman-King that goes all the way back to First Congregational,” said Rev. John T. Long III, senior pastor of the church. “It is fitting that the church be named for Harriet Tubman and the Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. to make that historical connection and to make that historical bridge.”
Two prominent figures As explained during the service by youth leader Sarah Jackson: “In the 1980s, Rev. (G. Wesley) Raney made the calculated decision to change the name of what was then known as the First Congregational Church of Daytona Beach. By then the church had been experiencing a shift in the racial makeup of the congregation that mirrored the changes in the surrounding community. As more Blacks from the community joined the church, more White members began to flee. “Sensing the need to change the perception of this church as a “White” elitist church, members of the First Congregational Church of Daytona Beach elected to rename the church Tubman-King Community Church in honor of two prominent figures in African-American history who exhibited excellent leadership and courage during times of extreme duress – Harriett Tubman and Rev. Martin Luther King Jr.”
Making history fun Jackson read the above excerpt during a proPlease see CHURCH, Page 2
No more checks: Electronic system to improve access to healthy food for Volusia’s children BY ASHLEY D. THOMAS DAYTONA TIMES aysheldarcel@gmail.com
Over the next year, the Florida Women, Infant, and Children’s (WIC) program will be changing the way WIC foods are issued to clients from paper checks to an electronic benefit transfer (EBT) system. The rollout of the new system is scheduled for Monday, March 3 in Volusia County.
ALSO INSIDE
“The WIC program is going high-tech, which means Volusia families will have the opportunity to purchase their nutritious groceries with an electronic card rather than the paper vouchers,” said Dr. Bonnie J. Sorensen, director of the Florida Department of Health in Volusia County. “The electronic WIC benefits will help families make good food choices that connect to better health.” The federally funded program provides healthy foods, nutri-
tion education and counseling, breastfeeding support, and referrals for health care and community services at no cost.
‘Not as embarrasing’ “The EBT card has to be better, at least for the people behind the ones using WIC checks in line,” Tiffany Jones, a customer shopping in an area grocery store said. “A lot of times I have to wait for the cashiers who act like they
can’t read to check off the list and then they are just extremely slow when WIC is involved. Hopefully it will speed things up at the checkout.” Priscilla Seaborn, who receives WIC benefits in another state, says she likes the card better. “It’s just a swipe, but the cashier doesn’t have to check anything off. If it’s on your list, it scans and if it’s not it doesn’t. And if it’s not on your list, you can still get it, you’ll just have to pay for it.”
“It’s not as embarrassing to use the card either,” Seaborn added, saying that many times people huff and puff behind those using the benefits because it is a timeconsuming process. “The checks were outdated. The card brings the program to the 21st century.”
Who is eligible The WIC offices in Volusia County will be closed through Please see EBT, Page 2
COMMENTARY: DR. JULIANNE MALVEAUX: BLACKS HAVE MORE REASONS TO BE FEARFUL | 4 COMMENTARY: JAMES CLINGMAN: THE VALUE OF HBCUS – PART II | 4
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Bill calling for pilot program on rural doctor aid includes Flagler NEWS SERVICE OF FLORIDA
A House Republican on Tuesday filed a proposal (HB 1119) that would create a pilot project to determine the effectiveness of financial aid in attracting and retaining primary-care doctors in 12 largely rural North Florida counties.
Health Department opens vital statistics office in DeLand The Florida Department of Health in Volusia County is opening an additional Vital Statistics office at 121 W. Rich Ave in DeLand on March 3. The hours will be 8:30 a.m. to 4:45 p.m. “We are excited about this opportunity to serve clients on the west side of the county,” said Dr. Bonnie J. Sorensen, director of the Florida Department of Health in Volusia County. “This additional location will make it easier for residents to obtain the records they need.” Vital Statistics issues birth and death certificates for all counties in Florida. Prices for birth certificates start at $15 for the first copy and $8 for additional copies ordered at the same time for the same person. Death certificates cost $8 per copy. The health department has a Vital Statistics office at 1845 Holsonback
FEBRUARY 27 – MARCH 5, 2014
The bill, filed by Rep. Travis Hutson, RElkton, would require a report to be submitted in 2021 about the effects of a program known as the “Medical Education Reimbursement and Loan Travis Repayment Program,” Hutson which was created to help offset loan and educational expenses for primarycare medical professionals in underserved areas. Hutson’s bill would direct the De-
partment of Health to measure the effectiveness of the program in Calhoun, DeSoto, Glades, Gulf, Flagler, Franklin, Gadsden, Hamilton, Jefferson, Madison, Putnam and Taylor counties. The proposal comes as House leaders push to address a shortage of primary-care physicians in the state. That effort has touched off a lobbying fight about whether nurse practitioners should be allowed to provide care without physician supervision – an idea that supporters contend could help with primary-care shortages in areas such as rural communities.
Drive in Daytona Beach. That office issued 10,689 birth certificates and 44,516 death records last year. Birth and deaths for Volusia County are registered and the information is used to compile yearly reports by the Florida Office of Vital Statistics and the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. For more information, visit www. volusiahealth.com.
agnosed with diabetes. Refreshments will be served. RSVP for this free event by March 3 by calling 877-8HALIFAX.
Steelers’ Simmons to discuss diabetes at local hospital On March 5, two-time Super Bowl winner Kendall Simmons will be at Halifax Health to discuss diabetes. The event will be at Halifax Health Medical Center, France Tower, Meeting Room E. Simmons, a Pittsburgh Steelers right guard, Kendall Simmons, will discuss living his dream of playing in the NFL as a professional athlete di-
Michael Pyle will discuss elder law during a free program at 3 p.m. Wednesday, March 12, at the Daytona Beach Regional Library at City Island. Pyle, a Daytona Beach attorney and elder law specialist, will explain the effects of age and the need for nursing home care, wills, trusts, powers of attorney and health care designation documents in case of incapacity. The free program is sponsored by the Friends of the Daytona Beach Library. Reservations are not required. For more information, call Adult Program Coordinator Deborah Shafer at 257-6036, ext. 16264.
Kendall Simmons
Community Partnership seeking mentors Community Partnership for Children is recruiting mentors for teenage children in foster care. To learn about this program, register for the next orientation class. The class will be Tuesday, March 25, from 5 p.m. to 6:30 p.m. Community Partnership for Children is located at 135 Executive Circle, Daytona Beach. To register, contact Susan Hiltz at 386-547-2293 or via email at Susan. Hiltz@cbcvf.org.
FLORIDA DEPARTMENT OF HEALTH
The new WIC EBT card will be available to WIC recipients beginning March 3.
EBT
CHURCH
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from Page 1
duction by the Praise Diamonds, a group of 12 young ladies who gave an interpretive/praise dance to such songs as “Swing Low, Sweet Chariot” and “Break Every Chain.” She said the girls that participate in the dance group enjoy dancing and understand that it is a ministry. “I don’t just teach them dance though. We talk about our Black history, scriptures in the Bible, and current events that affect them,” she said. “And I make it fun.” “I think it was a great idea to change the name so that the Black community could identify with the church and feel connected. It does seems sad to me though that even today some Black people in our community don’t know who Harriet Tubman and Martin Luther King Jr. were and their contributions to America. They don’t understand our
Attorney to address elder law at library
ASHLEY D. THOMAS/DAYTONA TIMES
Tubman-King members and visitors took a trip down history lane Sunday. The church is named for Harriet Tubman and the Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. church name. We have to know our history.”
‘Every room is named’ Following the service, parishioners had the opportunity to view books, photos and artifacts in the church’s dining hall. “Last week people
brought in memorabilia of their families relating to African history or AfricanAmerican history,” Long explained. “We had some folks that had pictures that their families had going back generations, some that were African, some from the islands.” Long also noted that the history of the church
doesn’t stop with the building’s name. Each room is also named for a person of significance in African-American history. “Our social hall is the Dr. Mary McLeod Bethune Social Hall, the library is the Langston Hughes Library. Every room is named.”
Feb. 28 to allow the system upgrades. The five WIC sites throughout Volusia County will reopen on March 3 and start issuing the new EBT cards. The EBT cards will replace the current WIC paper checks. There were 19,026 WIC participants in 2013 and 437,342 WIC coupons (known as checks) were used. More than $8.5 million was generated to the local economy though the redemption of WIC coupons at 54 local WIC groceries. WIC serves eligible pregnant, postpartum and breastfeeding women, infants and children up to age 5. Additionally, participants have to meet residential, income and nutritional risk guidelines. Applicants’ gross income (i.e. before taxes are withheld) must fall at or below 185 percent of the U.S. Poverty Income
If you’re facIng foreclosure, TalK To your grandMa second. call The hope hoTlIne fIrsT aT 888-995-hope. Make sure you’re talking to the right people. speak with hud-approved housing counselors, free of charge, at the homeowner’s hope hotline.
Guidelines. That number is $28,694 for a family of two and $43,568 for a family of four.
No change in benefits Certain applicants also can be determined income-eligible for WIC based on their participation in certain programs. These programs include SNAP, Medicaid, Temporary Assistance for Needy Families (TANF) or at State agency option. Those receiving food benefits from WIC will not see a change in the amount of monthly SNAP benefits. Recipients will get a shopping list from their WIC office of listing monthly food benefits. Florida is one of the largest states ready for completion of the EBT system. The Healthy, Hunger Free Kids Act of 2010 mandated each state agency to implement an EBT system by Oct. 1, 2020. For more information, visit www.volusiahealth. com.
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M A YNEWS OR
FEBRUARY 27 – MARCH 5, 2014 COMMUNITY DECEMBER 14 - 20, 2006
Jazz and eggs: Society hosts breakfast to fund cultural programs It was undeniably a cool collection of hits by Rob’s JazzExpress for the recent 12th Annual Jazz Breakfast in support of the African American Cultural Society and its cultural programs. The breakfast was presented by the Omni Committee at the African American Cultural Society. Cultural programs funded by the revenues pulled in, and combined with intense love of jazz, enhanced the late Bill Dabney’s brainchild of a jazz breakfast. Dabney was the founding chairman of the Omni Committee. From Jacksonville and Orlando, friends gathered with members of the African American Cultural Society for the classic hits of Rob’s JazzExpress, a trio of Robert Whiting on guitar, Jack LaForte on bass guitar, and Robert Banks on drums. The audience got caught up in the trio’s rendition of Jimmy Smith’s “The Sermon,” “People Make the World Go Round,” a Stylistics’ knockout, and Al Green’s legendary “ Let’s Stay Together.” Omni Chair John Reid made sure everyone got enough to eat, like back in the day – with sausage, eggs, grits and pancakes.
PALM COAST COMMUNITY NEWS JEROLINE D. MCCARTHY
ACT-SO Olympics take place March 8 The Flagler County NAACP invites the community for the Third Annual ACT-SO Olympics of the Mind Competition taking place March 8, 1 p.m., at the Pirates Theatre at Matanzas High School, 3535 Old Kings Road North, Palm Coast. The competition distinguishes itself as the Afro-Academic, Cultural, Technological and Scientific Olympics (ACT-SO), a youth initiative of the national NAACP showcasing students with talents in music, poetry, dance, art, design, and culinary arts - and science and technology. The winners will represent Flagler County, advancing to the national competition in Las Vegas, July 17 to 20, to compete against other students for scholarships, awards, and prizes. Noted ACT-SO alumni are di-
The audience listens to hits by Rob’s JazzExpress. rector/producer/screenwriter John Singleton, music artist Kanye West and actor Jada Pinkett Smith. So come and support our young scientists, poets and filmmakers. For information on a combination ticket purchase, call the NAACP at 386-446-7822.
AKAs to present STEM program in St. Augustine The Chi Delta Omega Chapter of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Inc. and its affiliate, the Ivy Community Foundation, Inc., continue its legacy of mentoring youth through an interactive Youth
Summit. The scheduled date is March 29, 10 a.m. to 1 p.m., at the Solomon Calhoun Community Center, 1300 Duval St., St. Augustine. Guest speakers will discuss careers in science, technology, engineering and math (STEM), plus nonThe summit is being introduced in St. Augustine, but will serve youth in the surrounding counties. Participants will receive information relative to self-development, maintaining healthy relationships, and other topics pertinent to youth. For more information, call Ivy Leaf Reporter Kowanna John-
son at 904-910-9237, or email IvyLeaf@akachideltaomega, org. ••• As always, remember our prayers for the sick, afflicted and bereaved.
Celebrations Birthday wishes to: Douglas Brown, Jasmyne Hendrix, Feb. 27; Jennie Timmons, Feb. 28; Kristara Peddlar, Shirley Davis, March 1; Jazmine Major Arnold, Sybil Dodson Lucas, March 2; Carmel Hooke, March 3. Happy anniversary to Dr. and Mrs. Irving W. Robinson, Feb.28; Frank and Almedia Quarterman, March 3.
Church to honor Mother Butts The members of Butts Miracle Temple Church of God in Christ, Daytona Beach, will celebrate Mother Willie Mae Butts and her 53 years of ministry March 1 at 6 p.m. The celebration will be at Butts Miracle Temple Church of God in Christ of East Central Florida, 636 Hawk St. The guest speaker will be Pastor Freddie P. Oats of Faith Temple Worldwide Ministry in Dunnellon. The event is free and open to the public. Mother Butts, a native of Pine Level, Ala., was the church’s former first lady for 45 years with her late husband, Dr. Henry L Butts. She currently serves as the co-pastor of Butts Miracle Temple. Her son, Bishop Samuel L. Butts, is the senior pastor. The 75-year-old mother of 14, grandmother of 24, Mother Willie great grandmother of nine is an author, poet, artist, Mae Butts songwriter, gardener, 30-year radio personality and entrepreneur. The overseer of the church’s women’s ministry, she continues to find time to do street ministry and preach the gospel. She has received letters of accommodations from every sitting president from President Jimmy Carter to President Barack Obama.
BRIEFS Halifax Health offering free support to caregivers Halifax Health is now offering a free Caregiver Support Line. Sponsored by the Halifax Health – Center for Transplant Services, the hotline offers information and uplifting support to residents who are currently providing long-term care for loved ones. “Families are the major provider of long-term care. Research shows that caregiving places a heavy emotional, physical and financial toll on caregivers, so many issues arise. They are compounded when caregivers, many of whom also work, experience conflicts between their work and caregiving schedules,” explained Christi Gorgans, MSW, psychosocial program coordinator for Halifax Health. “Hopefully caregivers in Volusia and Flagler counties will find this support line informative as well as a comfort.” Facilitators for the support line include Gorgans and Jenn Watley, LCSW, psychosocial program coordinator for Halifax Health. The support line is open Monday-Thursday, 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. Calls received Friday, Saturday and Sunday or after hours will be returned within 48 hours. Caregivers are encouraged to call 386-947-4652 to reach the Caregiver Support Line.
Workshop for prospective vendors starts March 4 Volusia County’s Purchasing and Contracts Division will hold two workshops for vendors who want to learn how to do business with the county. The workshops will be in the first-floor training rooms of the Thomas C. Kelly Administration Center, 123 W. Indiana Ave., DeLand, from 5:30 to 7:30 p.m. on Tuesday, March 4, and 9 to 11 a.m. on Wednesday, March 5. County representatives will demonstrate how to register as a vendor; submit bids, pro-
posals and quotes; and discuss state and local ordinances relevant when working with the county. Staff will explain the information channels available to vendors and answer questions. For more information, call the Volusia County Purchasing and Contracts Division at 386-7365935, ext. 12490.
Daytona State to provide financial aid application help on Saturday Daytona State College will host a College Goal event from noon to 4 p.m. on March 1 at the Daytona Beach and DeLand campuses. Financial aid specialists will help collegebound students and their families complete the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA). For assistance, visit the Daytona Beach Campus, Baker Academic Support Center/computer lab, at 1200 W. International Speedway Blvd., or the DeLand Campus, Business Hall, room 115, at 1155 County Road 4139. For more information, visit www.DaytonaState.edu/FinAid or call 386-506-3015.
Harvest Time seeking volunteers Harvest Time International’s Volunteer Services Department has many volunteer positions available. Individual volunteers and group volunteers are essential in helping with the local community assistance program. Volunteer opportunities consist of sorting or stocking of relief products such as household goods, and food for distribution in the Community Hope Center. The center in Port Orange provides immediate assistance upon qualification. Families in need are able to receive same day assistance after qualifying through the client services office. If interested, email Maria Delgado at maria@harvesttime. org.
“Fruitvale Station’’ starring Michael B. Jordan as Oscar Grant will be shown on March 9.
Cinematique to host civil rights film festival March 8 and 9 The Friends of the Daytona Beach Library and Cinematique will present a two-day film festival featuring three films that dramatize events from America’s civil rights and post civil rights eras. The films will be shown at the Cinematique Theater, 242 S. Beach St., Daytona Beach. They include: • Lee Daniels’ “The Butler”:
Allen Chapel A.M.E. to celebrate 104th year Allen Chapel A.M.E. Church, 580 George W. Engram Blvd. will celebrate its 104th anniversary March 9 at 10 a.m. The church is under the leadership of Pastor Nathan M. Mugala. Co-chairs for the anniversary are Bettye Ivey and Jackie Mole. The theme is “Standing on Faith – 104 Years.” The community is invited to attend. The men of Allen Chapel A.M.E. Church will host its annual “A Taste of Allen” Food Feast from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. March 1 on the church parking lot, 580 George W. Engram Blvd. For more information, call the church office Monday through Thursday from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. at 255-1195.
Discover your roots in historical newspapers Learn how to explore America’s past and your personal roots using a historical newspaper database from 10 to 11 a.m.
7:30 p.m. March 8. The 2013 film is based on the true story of Cecil Gaines, a White House butler who served eight American presidents over three decades. • “Selma, Lord, Selma”: 2:30 p.m. March 9. Based on true events, this film tells the story of “Bloody Sunday” through the eyes of an 11-year-old AfricanAmerican girl named Sheyann Webb. • “Fruitvale Station”: 5:30 p.m. March 9. This film logs a day in the life of Oscar Grant III, a
22-year-old San Francisco Bay area resident who crosses paths with friends, enemies, family and strangers on the last day of 2008. Following each film, Ben Trotter will lead a discussion of the film and its background. Trotter, a library assistant at the Daytona Beach Regional Library at City Island. There is no charge for the movies, but tickets are required. To obtain tickets, contact Deborah Shafer at dshafer@volusia.org or 386-257-6036, ext. 16264.
Wednesday, March 12, at the Daytona Beach Regional Library at City Island. Genealogy librarian Kim Dolce will offer an introduction to America’s Historical Newspapers, a collection of digital books, pamphlets, broadsides, newspapers, government documents and ephemera printed in America from 1690 to 1922. Reservations are not required. For more information, call Kim Dolce at 386-257-6036, ext. 16315. Learn about other upcoming library events at www.volusialibrary.org.
Swim tryouts for 16-year-olds will be on these dates: • Saturday, March 8: 8 a.m. to 10 a.m. at the DeLand YMCA, 761 International Speedway Blvd.; and 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. and 2 to 4 p.m. at the Ormond Beach YMCA • Saturday, March 15: 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. and 2 to 4 p.m. at the Ormond Beach YMCA Applicants must be at least 16 by March 24 and be able to swim 500 meters in under 10 minutes, swim 50 yards in under 30 seconds, and run a half-mile in under 3 minutes, 15 seconds. Candidates considered for hiring will undergo a background check, physical and drug screening. Those who meet the swim requirements must pass a stringent selection process, attend an orientation and training class, and complete a 40-hour first responder/CPR. Starting pay is $8.51 an hour. A $500 bonus will be given to new hires who work specified hours and days. For more information, visit www.volusia.org/beach or call Beach Safety Ocean Rescue at 386-239-6414.
County launches beach safety mentoring program for 16-year-olds Volusia County’s Beach Safety Division is launching a Lifeguard Trainee Mentoring Program for 16-year-olds who want to prepare for jobs as tower guards. Trainees will shadow and assist seasoned tower guards, but will not assist in water rescues, according to Beach Safety Director Mark Swanson.
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FEBRUARY 27 – MARCH 5, 2014
Justice refused for another African-American teenager? My thoughts and prayers are with Ron Davis and Lucia McBath, the parents whose teenage son was murdered on November 23, 2012. Jordan Davis was killed following an argument with an older White male who became upset that Davis and his friends were playing loud music in their car. Michael Dunn’s defense team argued that he feared for his life and believed he saw a shotgun in the car with Davis. None of the teens in the car were armed. Among the disturbing facts in this case is that Michael Dunn had returned to his vehicle and could have easily driven away if he legitimately feared for his life. Instead, the 47 year old grabbed his pistol and fired ten bullets into the teenager’s vehicle as it drove away. On the heels of Trayvon Martin’s killing this eerily similar case seems to be a harbinger of what could be in store for Black males seeking justice in our nation’s courts. In Trayvon Martin’s case George Zimmerman stalked and confronted Trayvon Martin, because he looked suspicious. In this case, Michael Dunn started an unprovoked confrontation with Davis and his friends because he was upset about their loud music. Both situations ended with the slayings of unarmed Black teenagers and non-murder convictions for their killers. How can Zimmerman and Dunn’s arguments of “self defense” stand, when neither Martin nor Davis instigated the confrontations that ended their lives?
JUDGE GREG MATHIS SPECIAL TO THE NNPA FROM THE MICHIGAN CHRONICLE
Jordan Davis was in the car with three friends the night he was attacked. The jury did find Michael Dunn guilty on three counts of second-degree attempted murder – one for each of the three boys in the car with Davis. However, they failed to reach a verdict on an actual murder charge for Davis.
What’s in a degree? Presented with the facts in this case, I can understand how some on the jury may have been somewhat reluctant to convict Davis of murder in the first degree. Murder in the first degree requires that an act be from a “premeditated” design in order to intentionally cause death. A second-degree murder charge does not require “premeditation.” In order to be convicted of second-degree murder, an individual must engage in the “unlawful killing of a human being” during an act that is “imminently dangerous to another” and in a “depraved mind.” The obvious in this case is that Dunn’s actions were imminently dangerous and resulted in the death of Davis and so the remaining question is whether or not his actions were committed out of a “depraved mind” or in oth-
er words an “ill-will” for Davis. The fact that the jury did not convict Dunn of second-degree murder is troubling. It shows that the jury did not believe Dunn actions were committed out of illwill toward the defendant. Davis and his friends were unarmed; Dunn initiated the initial confrontation over Davis’ music, and had ample time to get in his car and leave if he thought Davis had a gun. But, Dunn was still able to successfully argue his actions were committed out of self-defense and fear for his own life.
Resulting actions This result of this case is a condemnation to Black men across America. In both cases, jurists ruled these unarmed Black teenagers posed a threat to their assailants that deserved to be punished by death. My thoughts are with Mr. Davis and Ms. McBath for the loss of their son and I am worried that this verdict may usher in a renewed reality for Black men. Coupled with the verdict in Trayvon Martin’s case we may be seeing a reality where Black men have been demonized for so long that the fact of our race can now be used as a legitimate defense to murder.
Greg Mathis is a retired Michigan 36th District Court judge and syndicated television show arbiter on the reality court show Judge Mathis. Write your own response at www.daytonatimes. com.
The value of HBCUs – Part II With specific emphasis on Howard University, let’s consider a few solutions to the challenges HBCUs face. There are some who say HBCUs are irrelevant and no longer necessary because we are living in a “post-racial” society, mainly because a Black man was elected president of the U.S. You’ve heard it: He who defines you also controls you; he can set the height of the bar and raise it anytime he wants. The relevancy and necessity of HBCUs, often promoted by those who have no stake in their existence, is a question that constituents of HBCUs should answer. Do we value HBCUs? Have they served us well? Have they played an important role in American history? Should we allow them to fade away because a few critics say they should? Will we define ourselves, or let someone else to do it? One look at the list of Howard University graduates made me think about the tremendous void in our society that would exist without their contributions and achievements. There are similar alumni lists for other HBCU’s of Blacks who have contributed to this nation in virtually every category of service, business, media, research, entertainment, politics, education, science, engineering, medical, and legal, just to name a few. Irrelevant? Anachronism?
JAMES CLINGMAN NNPA COLUMNIST
Outlived their usefulness? Not by a long shot.
Time to reach back Roger Madison, Izania.com, says, “We simply don’t have a history of reaching back to lift up our own and build our own institutions of thought leadership. Our brightest have anchored themselves in mainstream institutions and have felt very little obligation to help raise the level of quality at our HBCUs.” Since the critics invariably compare the top HBCUs to Harvard, here’s something to think about: Hedge Fund Manager, Ken Griffin, recently gave $150 million to Harvard, a school that already has a $32 billion endowment. I doubt we will see one or two Black super-wealthy individuals do that, but I know that through our collective action, we can meet a similar goal, that is, if we value our schools. Yes, our HBCUs need money, just as every school does, but they also need other resources, many
of which those of us who care can offer. We can volunteer to teach a class as a guest lecturer, do an online presentation to a class, hold more of our meetings and conferences on HBCU campuses, and pay for their space rather than some other venue. Current HBCU students could mount continuous PR and marketing campaigns that tell the fantastic stories of their HBCU. Some do that already, but we need more. We must also work to keep our schools on solid financial ground, the responsibility of which starts with the president and his cabinet. Good stewardship of HBCU funds is essential. Just like any business, Howard and all HBCUs must diversify income streams, invest in new information technology, and continue to provide high quality education in the face of rising costs. We often talk about the “State of HBCUs,” but this is about the “Fate of HBCUs.” Will we determine that fate or leave it up to others?
Jim Clingman, founder of the Greater Cincinnati African American Chamber of Commerce, is the nation’s most prolific writer on economic empowerment for Black people. Write your response at www.daytonatimes.com.
Free Press distorts Black TV ownership Over the past few months there have been several news stories about no Blacks owning major broadcast TV stations anymore. The cries have bordered on mass hysteria. It turns out that the story is not true. Most of this hysteria in the media has been created by Free Press, a White, liberal advocacy group. According to their website, “Free Press advocates for universal and affordable Internet access, diverse media ownership, vibrant public media and quality journalism.” They released their first report on the state of TV ownership in 2006, and found that there were only 18 Black-owned and operated full-power commercial TV stations, representing just 1.3 percent of all such stations. By December 2012, those 18 had shrunk to just five. And now, according to Free Press, they’re all gone.
Misleading report This report is false in many ways. First, there is the issue of context. For example, what happens when Blacks decide to sell their stations like Bob Johnson did with BET or Mike and Steve Roberts from St. Louis (friends of mine) who were forced to sell their stations last year after they filed for bankruptcy? The problem is that Free Press,
Free Press not so freeing RAYNARD JACKSON NNPA COLUMNIST
while deploring the state of Black ownership, does not factor in situations where Black owners voluntarily or involuntarily sell their properties. Therefore, reduced Black representation in the industry is not solely attributable to slamming the door in the face of Black investors. As they say, figures can lie and liars can figure. Again, taking a look at Free Press, they claim there are no Black-owned TV stations and consequently favor some type of government action to swell the ranks of Black ownership. Well, it turns out that there is at least one Black, Armstrong Williams, who owns not one, but several TV stations. Last November 28, Williams won approval from the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) to buy WEYI-TV, an NBC affiliate in the Flint/Saginaw/Bay City/Midland, Mich., WWMBTV, a CW affiliate in the Myrtle Beach/Florence, S.C, and WMMP in Charleston, S.C. He obtained a $50 million loan from JP Morgan.
In this case, Williams has the knowledge to oversee these stations himself. What is amazing is that Free Press tried to get the FCC to block approval of Williams’ purchase. But wait a minute, they stated: “Free Press advocates for universal and affordable Internet access, diverse media ownership, vibrant public media and quality journalism.” Yet, they lined up to block one of the goals they profess to have – more diverse ownership. For the sake of argument, say they had some legitimate concerns about Williams’ management arrangements. Still, that wouldn’t warrant trying to prevent the sale of the television stations to an African American. Given these strange set of events, the only conclusion I can reach is that the liberal advocacy group that claims to seek “diverse media ownership” does not want politically diverse Black ownership. There is no other way to explain it. Free Press has proven itself to be anything but reasonable.
Raynard Jackson is president & CEO of Raynard Jackson & Associates, LLC., a Washington, D.C.-based public relations/government affairs firm. Write your own response at www.daytonatimes.com.
VISUAL VIEWPOINT: BALLOT BROTHER IN OHIO
NATE BEELER, THE COLUMBUS DISPATCH
Blacks have more reasons to be fearful than Whites In the years after enslavement, Southern Whites did all they could to return to a manner of slavery. No White “owned” a Black person, but many Whites behaved as if they did. Theoretically, Blacks were free to come and go as they pleased, but if they went to the wrong store, sat in the wrong part of the bus, or failed to yield narrow sidewalks to Whites, they could expect a physical confrontation. All a White woman had to do was cry “rape” for a Black man (and usually the wrong man) was beaten or lynched. Whites expected deference from Black people, and when they didn’t get it, they demanded it with physical threats or worse. In the months after World War II, 12 million soldiers returned home. Seven percent of them – nearly 800,000 Black soldiers – got something less than a hero’s welcome. Indeed, thousands of Black World II veterans were beaten, often because these men wanted the same rights at home that they fought for abroad. Their sense of dignity and equality seemed to embolden the Ku Klux Klan, which was responsible for soldiers in uniform being pulled off busses, beaten and shot. In some cases, these soldiers had their eyes gouged out; in some cases they were castrated, tortured and lynched.
And then he cried wolf When the myth of White superiority does not work, too many Whites hide behind their socalled fear as a way to force deference or provide penalties for those who will not engage in White people’s fantasies. If Michael Dunn were so afraid of Jordan Davis and his friends, why did he get out of his car and confront them about their loud music? None of us of a certain age loves loud music, but most of us know how to close a window and tolerate it for a moment or two. Dunn says he was afraid of teens playing “thug” music. Those teens might well have been afraid of him, just as the World War II veterans had been afraid of the KKK. Gary Pearl could be Michael Dunn’s evil twin, with a pecuni-
DR. JULIANNE MALVEAUX TRICEEDNEYWIRE.COM
ary twist. In 1983, Pearl left his job as a city sanitation supervisor in Louisville, Kentucky because he says he had a nervous breakdown, which he attributed to having to work with Black people. A psychiatrist testified that Pearl was suffered from paranoid schizophrenia; judge ordered that he be paid $231 per week. The state appealed the award, it was eventually overturned, and Gary Pearl returned to the obscurity he had before the “fear” defense.
File for fear What would happen if every Black person fearing White people got to file for unemployment compensation, or carry a gun around to assuage himself of his safety? Would a jury be as lenient toward that Black man as they were with Michael Dunn? Would they acquit just like the jury acquitted the men who killed Medgar Evers (it took decades for a jury to finally do the right thing). A hard read of history suggests that Blacks have more to fear from Whites than the other way around, but it is Whites, rationalizing their fear, who get to shoot without justification. A thorough read of history, however, would remind us of the Dred Scott case where the Supreme Court ruled that Black people have no rights that Whites are bound to respect. Clearly, Michael Dunn, George Zimmerman and the others who have Klan sensibilities and invisible hoods, believe a 19th century Supreme Court ruling instead of 21st century realities. For folks like Dunn and Zimmerman, however, the 19th century is not very different than the 21st.
Julianne Malveaux is a Washington, D.C.-based economist and writer. She is President Emerita of Bennett College for Women in Greensboro, N.C.
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.
THE CREDO OF THE BLACK PRESS The Black Press believes that Americans can best lead the world away from racism and national antagonism when it accords to every person, regardless of race, color or creed, full human and legal rights. Hating no person, fearing no person. The Black Press strives to help every person in the firm belief...that all are hurt as long as anyone is held back.
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Charles W. Cherry II, Esq., Publisher Dr. Valerie Rawls-Cherry, Human Resources Jenise Morgan, Senior Editor Deborah Ford, Marketing Consultants/Sales Linda Fructuoso, Marketing Consultant/Sales, Circulation Angela van Emmerik, Creative Director Larry Steele, Circulation Andreas Butler, Ashley Thomas, Staff Writers Delroy Cole, Kim Gibson, Photojournalists MEMBER National Newspaper Publishers Association Society of Professional Journalists Florida Press Association Associated Press National Newspaper Association
FEBRUARY 27 – MARCH 5, 2014
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PERSONAL MFINANCE AYOR
DECEMBER 14 - 20, 2006
Small-business owners face hard lessons in leasing Former NFL player among entrepreneurs dealing with losses over lease agreement
KNOW THE TERMS OF LEASE AGREEMENT Understand costs beyond rent, including maintenance, repairs, utilities and how your use will be measured. Be sure to read your lease in detail and hire an attorney who specializes in commercial real estate to explain the clauses and fine print. Protect your long-term business interests by investigating and negotiating some potential add-on clauses to your lease, which might include sublease, exclusivity and co-tenancy. Know what happens if you default on lease payments and try to negotiate lease terms that allow you to take measures before you are locked out.
BY VIRGINIA BRIDGES NEWS & OBSERVER/MCT
RALEIGH, N.C. — When Zydeco Downtown closed here last month, Antwan Harris didn’t just lose his business, he lost a lot of money. For nine years, Harris, a Raleigh native and two-time Super Bowl winner who played in the NFL from 2000 to 2005, served Cajun- and southern-style food at lunch, as well as drinks at night. But Harris packed up much of Zydeco in January after the landlord’s property management company sent him a letter asking him to move out, he said. The lease had expired, and he was trying to renew it when he was asked to leave. That situation Antwan left Harris with Harris little leverage, despite the fact that he had invested more than $450,000 to upfit the space — not including the $15,000 he spent on a heating, ventilation and air conditioning system over the summer, he said.
Stay on top of lease Harris would like to recoup some of his costs, but that is unlikely, he acknowledged, as his initial lease agreement called for him to leave anything that is attached to the space. He is learning the hard way the importance of understanding and staying on top of a smallbusiness lease. Businesses need to make sure they understand all the details and provisions in the lease, and review and update the document annually, said Michelle Rich Goode, president of Raleighbased Rich Commercial Realty,
SOURCE: U.S. SMALL BUSINESS ADMINISTRATION
Goode said. In many cases, owners of new retail businesses have to sacrifice security and location until they prove their concept over time. “You have to understand that if ETHAN HYMAN/RALEIGH NEWS & OBSERVER/MCT you are a small tenant (in a larger Antwan Harris works on moving out of Zydeco Downtown in Raleigh, N.C., on Jan. 10 after the complex), you are not going to get landlord’s property management company sent him a letter asking him to move out, he said. flexibility rights — such as options to renew, options to expand and which provides buyer and tenant dresses for sororities. right of first refusal,” she said. Work with broker, representation in commercial The Frill owners signed a attorney Key terms to cover and underproperty transactions. short-term lease on a space so stand include the length of the Each lease varies and commer“Check with your Client:inFifth/Third Banklease just Bleed: Region: US they could meet with clients and lease, annual increases and renewcial real estate landlords often inCampaign: BHN Newspaper like you would check in with your package ordersTrim: 9.889” x 10”busy Language: English during their corporate extra expenses such al options. A longer lease could alAgency Job #: 610-FTFTBNP4001 Live: Notes: None financial statements, tax infor- season. The venture ended up AD #/AD ID: QFRC3705 as maintenance fees, upkeep for low for more favorable options, but mation,” she said. costing more Keyline than they Date Modified: 02/6/14 1:55 PM Scale: expect100% shared facilities and use of tools it also increases the risk. ed, Steadman Output said, at: as 100% fees were in common spaces, according to CR: Owners also need to consider Round: HaveADstrong tacked on for using Page: items in the the U.S. Small Business Adminis- subletting and default clauses that common area. business plan define options and consequences tration. Before small-business NOT ownTO BE USED FORwith COLOR If owners don’t ask the right Working a real APPROVAL estate bro- if they can’t pay the rent. If owners questions, they could end up ers lease a building, Goode said, ker and an attorney will help foresee a problem paying the rent, AM: R.they Bernadine E. Garber BM: J. Lewandowski need toP:have a strong busilosing money, Goode and some owners negotiate with the land- they should work with their landness plan. Owners need to un- lord and better understand the lord to mitigate the shortfall in the small-business owners said. That was a lesson learned by derstand their finances, their terms they are agreeing to, ac- short term and pay back the rest Kate Steadman, co-owner of growth projections and the com- cording to the SBA, Goode and over the long term. “Don’t wait until it’s a problem,” Frill, a Cary, N.C., clothing com- pany’s plan, along with their own small-business owners. “It’s better to be prepared and Goode said. “Have those upfront pany that makes bridesmaid tolerance for risk, she and others understand what could happen,” conversations.” outfits and custom recruitment said.
HISTORY IS MADE BY THOSE WHO ASK QUESTIONS. The curious bank and its 20,000 employees proudly support and celebrate Black History Month.
The curious bank.® Member FDIC.
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FEBRUARY 27 – MARCH 5, 2014
VOTRAN IS HIRING FIXED ROUTE BUS OPERATORS These are full-time positions with benefits. To qualify, you must have a Florida Class B Driver’s License with a Passenger Endorsement, or be able to obtain a permit for a class B CDL with a Passenger (P) endorsement. You must be able to work a flexible schedule including nights and weekends. Customer Service or other experience working with the public is preferred. Votran performs criminal background investigations, driver’s license investigations and drug screens. These jobs pay $11.49 per hour. Please fill out an application in person at our office located at: 950 Big Tree Road; South Daytona, FL 32119 between the hours of 9AM – 4PM. Votran is an equal opportunity employer and a drug free workplace.
Who would have thought? Dr. Charles Drew did in 1938. The Blood Bank, developed by Dr. Charles Drew,
Florida Health Care Plans www.fhcp.com
is just one of the many life-changing innovations that came from the mind of an African American. We must do all we can to support minority education today, so we don’t miss out on the next big idea tomorrow. To find out more about African American innovators and to support the United Negro College Fund, visit us at uncf.org or call 1-800-332-UNCF. A mind is a terrible thing to waste.
EOE/AA A Drug Free – Smoke Free Work Place
©2007 UNCF
Body language can tell you all sorts of things. Like someone is having a stroke.
SPEECH DIFFICULTY
FACE DROOPING
ARM WEAKNESS
strokeassociation.org
TIME TO CALL 911
Know the sudden signs.
Spot a stroke F.A.S.T.
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M ASPORTS YOR
FEBRUARY 27 – MARCH 5, 2014 DECEMBER 14 - 20, 2006
500
from Page 1 “It’s like we get to go to the 500 twice.”
Fans: Move the date Other race attendees think it may be a good idea to move the race to the weekend prior. “You can have the race on Sunday but if it does rain out, more people can stay through Monday and attend the race because of the President’s Day holiday,” Tyler Magee, an Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University (ERAU) student said. “We were miserable.” Added Elissa Headon, “There is no coverage at the Speedway when it rains.’’ Headon and Magee had to make the 1.5-mile trek back to ERAU after the race was postponed but said after they returned they enjoyed it overall.
PHOTOS BY DUANE FERNANDEZ SR./HARDNOTTS PHOTOGRAPHY
Fans watch as racers zip by during the Daytona 500 on Sunday at the Daytona International Speedway.
Twitter goes wild While waiting for the race to restart, a broadcast of the 2013 Daytona 500 was shown on the Fox network. Unfortunately, throngs of viewers didn’t realize that it wasn’t live and began tweeting updates to the race and giving last year’s winner virtual high fives. The snafu was so bad that one of the Fox affiliate stations even congratulated Jimmie Johnson and had to retract the greetings. Clint Bowyer tweeted “Congrats to @Jimmie Johnson,” shortly after the No. 48 crossed the finish line. Johnson responded, “I hear I won the @Daytona500? Haha!” The real winner of the race was Hendrick Motorsports driver Dale Earnhardt Jr. who celebrated his second win of the race. His first was a decade ago in 2004. “I can’t believe it! This is better than the first one!” Earnhardt exclaimed via Twitter.
Singer Aloe Blacc sang the national anthem at this years Daytona 500.
Two-time Paralympic medalist sprinter Blake Leeper served as Honorary Race Official for the 56th annual Daytona 500.
ASHLEY THOMAS/DAYTONA TIMES
Parked at a restaurant near the Speedway, not everyone welcomed the fans.
Victory lap continues for Dale Earnhardt Jr. BY GEORGE DIAZ ORLANDO SENTINEL/MCT
Dale Earnhardt Jr. is enjoying the ride. “Late Show with David Letterman?” Check. “Good Morning America?” Check. ESPN? Check. The media blitz has been a bit of a magical mystery tour for Earnhardt, who has had little time for anything else other than celebrating and answering questions since winning the Daytona 500 late Sunday night. “Been so busy, haven’t even had a chance to eat anything,” he said during a teleconference on Tuesday, yet another pit stop on his hectic schedule. Get the guy a cheeseburger, please. In any case, Junior is cool with all of that. He gets it. This is a big deal for NASCAR Nation. Kinda like the Miracle on Ice for stock-car racing. It wasn’t an upset of the same magnitude by any stretch — Junior always has been solid on super-speedway tracks — but it most certainly rises to the same level emotionally when you consider the fan base.
Drawing new fans
JEFF SINER/CHARLOTTE OBSERVER/MCT
Dale Earnhardt Jr. wins the Daytona 500 at Daytona International Speedway on Feb. 23.
Now Junior is definitely roping in some new bloods, too. “The new fans? I heard a couple people tell me they’re fans now,” Earnhardt said. “Never watched a race. Now they’re a NASCAR fan. The race was fun and crazy to watch; now they’re fans. I think we turned on a lot of people Sunday. I think that race was destined to do that for some reason. It had kind of that feel — that ’79 Daytona
that was the first live flagto-flag broadcast that really turned the world on to what we were doing through network television.” Junior has been all over your TV set since winning the race. He shared a good rapport with Letterman, who asked him about the selfie Junior took outside Daytona International Speedway. Junior was in front of a statue of his late father, celebrating his first and only Daytona 500 victory in 1998. “I’ve walked by that statue and I’ve seen it before — been by it before — and it hit me that I should take that picture; if not for myself, then to share with my fans,” he said.
‘Priorities in better shape’ Earnhardt also shared some laughs with Letterman, explaining how he turned his car on and off during the laps under caution to conserve fuel before the two-lap green-whitecheckered finish. “All you kids in drivers ed, there it is,” Letterman said. Now 39, Earnhardt has been through the NASCAR 101 educational grind. He’s gathered an inordinate amount of attention, both good and bad. “I’ve been pretty vindicated, but I’m in a good place now,” he said. “I got my priorities in better shape. I feel, like I said, we’re embarking on a season that could be something really special for me. Whether we win the championship or not remains to be seen, obviously. But I had one of my greatest years last year, and I think we can top that this season.”
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7FEBRUARY 27 – MARCH 5, 2014
Walmart® wants to match Publix ad prices. Think about it. They’ll do it, too—if you ask. Or you could save yourself some trouble and enjoy shopping more than 35 BOGOs every week at Publix.