Daytona Times - March 16, 2017

Evangelist’s gospel shows set for April SEE PAGE 3

East Central Florida’s Black Voice

EE FR

E. FAYE WILLIAMS: TRUMP PLAYING ‘DODGEBALL’ WITH FEDERAL AGENCIES PAGE 4

GIDDENS TO COACH AT MAINLAND AFTER YEARS AT SPRUCE CREEK SEE PAGE 7

MARCH 16 - MARCH 22, 2017

YEAR 42 NO. 11

www.daytonatimes.com

Durham to lead Volusia’s Black Democrats “We must identify those candidates whose position is aligned with the policies that we as AfricanAmericans want to see put forward.’’ –Dr. L. Ronald Durham

BY ANDREAS BUTLER DAYTONA TIMES

Dr. L. Ronald Durham, the City of Daytona Beach’s community relations manager, was elected president of the Volusia County Democratic Black Caucus this month, replacing retired educator Jessie Harris.

“As the new president, I am committed along with our executive committee and growing membership to ensure that our collective voices are being heard.

The Democratic Black Caucus stands in solidarity in addressing issues that are addressing our people’s daily lives so that we can create solutions and strategies to

address those issues,” Durham told the Daytona Times.

Durham also is known throughout the county for his role as senior pastor of Great-

er Friendship Baptist Church in Daytona Beach for 12 years and his stint as community relations coordinator for Halifax Health Hospice in Volusia and Flagler counties.

“The Volusia Democratic Black Caucus tends to be a very physical advocate for the issues that effect African-Americans in this county. We’ll be the group that holds accountable those who are working against those interests in ways that will be detrimental to our community.”

Key focus: Education The Volusia County Democratic Black Caucus’ mission is to organize the African-American community to elect Democrats to office in Volusia County and to ensure that those Democrats understand the concerns of Black people in Volusia County.

Durham wants to use voter education to address some of the main issues facing the caucus and the party.

See DURHAM, Page 2

Local task force to address legal issues of homeless

BY ANDREAS BUTLER DAYTONA TIMES

PHOTOS BY DUANE C. FERNANDEZ SR./HARDNOTTSPHOTOGRAPHY.COM

Bikers from around the country hang out this week on Mary McLeod Bethune Boulevard. Events along the boulevard will continue through the weekend. Activities are planned by the Second Avenue Merchants Association.

Fatalities, new report put blemish on Bike Week FROM STAFF AND WIRE REPORTS

Bike Week 2017 continues through this weekend with hundreds of thousands of bikers participating in events just for them throughout Volusia County.

During the start of the two-week event, however, there was some disturbing news revealing that Florida had a 30 percent increase in motorcycle deaths in 2015.

According to AAA, In 2015, 606 people died and 9,045 were injured in motorcycle crashes on roads in the state.

And during the first weekend of Bike Week, which started on March 10, there were at least three major motorcycle crashes in Volusia. Two people died and six were injured within 24 hours.

“We normally do see an increase in the number of traffic fatalities, but we’ve all been saying how this year seems to be busier than the last eight years,” Daytona Beach Police Sgt. Kelsey Harris said in an See BIKES, Page 2

Motorcycle enthusiasts were doing a little shopping with vendors on Mary McLeod Bethune Boulevard this week.

A new task force has been created to provide legal and law enforcement input regarding the operations of the First Step Shelter, a proposed emergency homeless shelter in Daytona Beach.

The Volusia Criminal Justice Task Force on Homelessness, which is made up of members of law enforcement, the legal justice system and local politicians, met at Daytona Beach City Hall on March 8.

“We want to address the issues of chronic adult homelessness. Instead of addressing it as a social justice issue, we thought we would do it as a criminal justice issue. When you look at it that way, you are able to zero in on something and focus on some real costs,” said Daytona Beach City Commissioner Aaron Delgado.

He also is an attorney.

Money for shelter The task force also decided cooperating together could help save money, free up the criminal justice system and free up law enforcement to address other crime.

“Our court system is clogged with cases for homelessness, which includes arrests for trespassing, open container and other minor offenses. We spend a tremendous amount of money prosecuting these people,” Delgado related.

“Law enforcement isn’t using that time to protect our citizens.

We have identified at least 50 people arrested over 20 times in three years, which costs millions of dollars to persecute. That money could operate a shelter.”

The First Step Shelter is slated to be located near the Volusia County Branch jail.

“Just look at first appearances. Everyone has a legal right to see a judge within 24 hours of being arrested. A judge is available 365 days a year. You have beSee HOMELESS, Page 2

Scientists fear hurricane forecasts will suffer under Trump administration

BY JENNY STALETOVICH MIAMI HERALD/TNS

MIAMI – A growing chorus of scientists is raising the alarm over reports of Trump administration budgets cuts that would affect climate change research and hurricane forecasting.

On Monday, 32 Florida scientists sent a letter to the president voicing worry over reports that

ALSO INSIDE

the Department of Commerce, which overseas the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA), has proposed cutting 17 percent from its budget, with the nation’s network of satellites taking the biggest hit.

Critical data The satellites include a system of polar orbiters that provide crit-

ical data from the top and bottom of the planet and help scientists understand two of the biggest threats facing the peninsula.

“It would be like looking at the world with a half-blind eye and not two good eyes,” said Frank Muller-Karger, a University of South Florida oceanographer who was appointed to the U.S. Commission on Ocean Policy by President George W. Bush.

Deep cuts Last week, The Washington Post obtained a four-page budget memo outlining the cuts. The cuts were so steep and in such critical areas that scientists immediately sounded the alarm.

Cuts also included the popular and bipartisan Sea Grants program, which matches local money for coastal research.

A Department of Commerce spokesman said Monday that agency would not comment.

A spokesman for Sen. Bill Nelson, D-Fla., said his office had not been provided any details.

But in a statement, Nelson said, “We’re not going to allow that to happen. NOAA’s mission is too important.”

See WEATHER, Page 2

COMMUNITY NEWS: SECTION 8 APPLICATIONS AVAILABLE APRIL 6-8 IN VOLUSIA COUNTY | PAGE 3 COMMUNITY NEWS: HALIFAX HEALTH TO HOST COLON HEALTH AWARENESS EVENT | PAGE 5

7 FOCUS

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MARCH 16 – MARCH 22, 2017

HOMELESS tween 50 to 100 people depending upon special events seeing a judge for first appearance,”said Volusia County Court Judge Belle Schumann.

“Ten percent of these people being arrested for homelessness are arrested for trespass and petty offenses that would be diverted to a shelter. Most serve a few days without any services then go back out to streets to be arrested again,’’ she added.

start worth making.

“Critics say it doesn’t solve the homeless problem, which is true but perfect for so long has been the enemy of good. We can’t solve every facet at once but it doesn’t mean that we can’t get started by having a shelter,” expressed Dan Schaffer of the Public Defenders Office.

Others attending the meeting were Ormond Beach Mayor Bill Parrington, a practicing defense attorney; South Daytona Police Chief Ronald Wright; Daytona Beach Mayor Derrick Henry and Volusia County Council member Heather Post.

Countywide concern

Some agreements

“Homelessness is a countywide problem. I have been in DeLand, DeBary and across the entire county. There are folks living out in the woods. I’ve seen it from a county perspective as sheriff and during my 10-year tenure as Daytona police chief,” commented Sheriff Mike Chitwood.

Daytona Beach Deputy Chief Jakari Young echoed, “This is a countywide problem, but it especially hits home here in Daytona Beach. Anyone that has attended any commission meeting in recent years can see that this is a hot topic. Just look what was in front of the tag office over a year ago.

“You can see the mass homeless population in this city. I am elated that we are at the table moving forward. I think this will help out tremendously. I think law enforcement bears the brunt of dealing with the homeless. It’s never our goal to violate the rights of the homeless. We deal with what is in front of us but we have to protect rights of business owners too,” he continued.

Here are some agreements hammered out by the task force at the meeting.

The proposed First Step Shelter will be a 24-hour, come-as-youare shelter, which is necessary to comply with federal law. It would be unlike any other permanent homeless shelter that has ever been proposed in Volusia County. By following case law, it gives police the legal tools needed to motivate homeless campers into a shelter.

Model ordinances and police protocols would need to be uniform across municipalities.

The shelter should be centrally located in the county. It is also important that the shelter be located away from residential or commercial areas.

Sheltering homeless people while providing them with case management and resources to address their individual circumstances is less costly and more effective than continuing to arrest, transport, processing and jailing non-violent homeless people accused of minor offenses. It costs about $86 a day to jail a person vs. $20 per day to put a person in a shelter.

from Page 1

Safety, assistance The task force is hoping to use a program in Pinellas County as an example.

PHOTOS BY DUANE C. FERNANDEZ SR./HARDNOTTSPHOTOGRAPHY.COM

On March 8, the newly formed Volusia Criminal Justice Task Force on Homelessness met at Daytona Beach City Hall. ing go to jail don’t get help and come right back out. We want this to enhance safety of neighborhood and business community.

The state attorney’s office is open to helping these folks get on their feet, but we are also committed to persecuting the habitual offenders that always break the law.’’

Civil rights Volusia County Sheriff Mike Chitwood addresses the group.

“There, the sheriff and state attorney can give homeless individuals options of the shelter or jail for minor and non-violent offenses. It is ‘take them as they are.’

Even intoxicated but non-violents can go to a shelter. They are also provided help services,’’ stated State Attorney R.J. Larizza.

“Right now, we have people go-

Also such a homeless shelter will help law enforcement ensure the civil rights of individuals.

“We also looked at federal civil rights when dealing with the homeless. People are being prosecuting but everyone has civil rights. Without the right laws in place, you can’t protect everyone’s civil rights. We are dealing with two issues, which are police making arrest that are illegal and can’t be upheld in the court of law and the city or county facing a lawsuit,” explained Delgado.

Noted Ormond Beach Mayor Bill Parrington, who is also an attorney, “From Ormond’s municipal perspective, we realize it’s a communitywide issue. Our commission recognizes this and wants to be a good community partner.

Also, this puts us in compliance with the law. It’s important that the leaders set the example. Right now we aren’t in compliance with the law.

“This committee will bring us in compliance with the law. From our city perspective for funding we don’t want funding to be an issue forever. As the county jail starts to realize the savings, hopefully they will buy into this,” said Ormond Beach Mayor and local attorney Bill Parrington.

Other attendees Still, there are critics to the proposed First Step Shelter but those on the task force thinks this is the

WEATHER

BIKES

from Page 1

from Page 1

Republican Sen. Marco Rubio’s staff declined to comment on the record about the reports.

Orlando Sentinel article. “It’s been bad out there for crashes, and between everything else going on, it’s keeping us very busy.”

Universities included In their letter sent Monday, scientists from the state’s major universities including Florida State, Florida A&M University, the University of Florida and University of Miami, warned that the NOAA cuts threatened to undo significant advances in understanding changes on the earth that affect both society and industry.

“There is increasing concern among the scientific community that politics could interfere, stymie, or even silence crucial scientific observations,” the letter said.

Scaling back observations would essentially limit scientists’ ability to measure the planet’s vital signs and detect early signs of sickness.

Advanced sensors The scientists are particularly worried about advances in the nation’s satellite network, which measures everything from sea surface temperatures to the color of the ocean.

Advanced sensors have dramatically improved not just the quality of the information but the amount. That means better forecasts for hurricanes and other extreme events, including wildfires.

“With reductions in research, hurricane forecasts will never improve, and without satellite data those same forecasts won’t even exist,” NOAA’s former chief

DURHAM from Page 1

“We must educate voters on putting our concerns in the forefront, which I believe will impact the ballot and public policy to build a Florida that represents the rights of women, access to quality health care, reassures voting rights, addresses poverty, ensures civil rights, jobs and affordable housing,” Durham explained.

The local Democratic Party is facing the same challenges that the party is facing statewide and nationally.

“I believe our challenges do all align. We need to look at demanding busi-

How counties ranked

KRISTOFFER TRIPPLAAR/SIPA USA/TNS

Above is the exterior view of the headquarters of the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration is located in Silver Spring, Md. scientist, Richard Spinrad, said in an email Monday.

The network has also helped tracked pollution, including the BP Deepwater Horizon spill, as well as the spread of red tide and dangerous algae outbreaks that can imperil fish. Other data can let fishery managers know what areas of the ocean are available for harvest, Muller-Karger said.

“They make maps of the entire planet every three days or so,” he said. “All of those things would be hampered if the government decides they’re not going to do it.”

Cheaper alternative?

The satellites have also helped

nesses have fair hiring practices, building political alliances with other groups such as indivisible.org and the top item on everyone’s radar is adequate health care across the board for all Americans.”

Balance of power The Democratic Party also is battling the redrawing of congressional districts.

Over the last decade, Republican-controlled legislatures have redrawn districts which Democrats argues has shifted the balance of power from their party to Republicans in local, state and national legislatures.

“I believe one of our main agenda items has to be holding educational forums to facilitate building voter understanding of the

document polar ice sheets, which help provide information on the pace of climate change and which the Trump administration has openly questioned.

Some have suggested relying on private satellites or other countries’ satellites to provide the information as a cheaper alternative. But Muller-Karger called that idea “ridiculous for many reasons.”

Not all countries share information, he said, including China and Russia, which operate the most number of satellites after the U.S. Relying on outside sources could also pose a significant security threat, he said.

Satellites often take years to develop, build and launch. The

issues. We need effective voter registration drives.

‘Get Out to Vote’ is mandatory if we are going to see any kind of change locally, county or statewide. We also must support qualified candidates approved by the Black caucus,’’ he noted.

The right candidate Finding qualified candidates to support is another challenge for the party and another way to address gerrymandering.

“We must identify those candidates whose position is aligned with the policies that we as African-Americans want to see put forward,’’ he related.

“Once we have the right candidates in place that Black voters have confidence in and want to see

satellites now in orbit are based on 1990s technology, MullerKarger said.

Derailing that work now could put the U.S. decades behind the technology of other countries.

“Right now we have measurements we’ve never had before.

We can look at things that affect fishing and pollution in coastal waters. We can track temperatures in the ocean on a daily basis over a long period of time in a way we never did. So we would (be) going backward if we cut these programs,” he said. “We can’t just pretend things are going to be OK if we don’t look out the window.”

elected, then I believe we will find folk coming out to vote because they see in the individual someone who advocates on their behalf. That has been in my opinion why people haven’t come out to vote.

The candidate has to be the right person to instill confidence in the voters that they will make their lives better.”

Voter apathy When it comes to voter apathy among AfricanAmericans, Durham says all voters have to do is look at President Donald Trump.

Durham explained, “We have a tremendous ally helping us with that in President Donald Trump.

He has singlehandedly energized the Democratic

Party in ways that I haven’t seen as long as I’ve been voting.

“The missteps that he has taken in a very short time and the decisions that he is making have even given his own supporters buyers remorse,’’ Durham continued.

Reaching millennials Durham also wants to see the party reach out to more young voters.

“One of the things I will be focusing on is getting out to our colleges in the area. We want a presence on campus with voter registration forums. We will recruit those politically minded to become a part of our caucus perhaps in the role of a sub committee

According to the new report, Miami-Dade County ranked first with 67 deaths and Hillsborough County was second with 48 deaths.

There were 26 motorcycle crash deaths in Orange County in 2015; the county tied with Lee County in sixth place.

Volusia and Polk counties tied for 11th place with 21 motorcycle crash deaths reported.

No helmets The study also found the majority of bikers claim to wear a helmet, but only 47 percent were seen wearing one while driving.

About 40 percent of motorcyclists killed in crashes between 2013 and 2015 were not wearing helmets, according to data from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration.

“Time and time again, the effectiveness of motorcycle helmets has been proven through scientific study,” AAA public policy manager Karen Morgan said. “AAA strongly supports a universal helmet law in Florida.”

It is legal in Florida to ride without a helmet.

that really goes out themselves and help us recruit that age group, which is difficult,” Durham added.

“We want to be proactive recruiting millennials and make them a part of our caucus. I think that will help attract others.”

Next meeting The Volusia County Democratic Black Caucus currently holds its meetings at 219 West Howry Ave., DeLand. The next meeting will be April 3 at 6 p.m.

It is one of 19 branches of the Democratic Black Caucus of Florida , according to its website, www.dbcflorida.org. The Florida caucus was established in 1983.

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M A YNEWS OR

MARCH 16 – MARCH 22, 2017 COMMUNITY DECEMBER 14 - 20, 2006

Palm Coast students enjoy evening of dance theater Guardine “Gerri” Wright-Gibson left student tickets and tickets for chaperones at Palm Harbor Academy, setting the stage for the performance of “Russian Seasons.” Wright-Gibson initiated the kids to go on a journey, the projectory of exposing them to opera and the dance theater.

The Daytona Beach Symphony Society recently launched the magnificent performance at the Peabody Auditorium.

Wright-Gibson, the first African-American president of the Daytona Beach Symphony Guild, ushers in funds to support the society, and provide for 2,500 school kids to see an annual performance at the Peabody without cost.

Russian exposure Palm Harbor Academy was a springboard for the school kids, who are choir members, to enjoy “the simplest, ancient Russian folk dances to neo-classical and modern styles of the Russian Seasons Dance Company.”

It was the cultural style of dance emerging from Ireland, Rumania, France, Argentina, and the world-famous Broadway stage among other renditions.

Nikolai Androsov is chief choreographer and the artistic director of 16 glorious dancers. He is one of the initiators, who, in 1991, founded the Russian Seasons Dance Company. And, despite what’s happening today with Russia in the political arena of the world stage, the Russian Seasons Dance Company was phenomenal!

PALM COAST COMMUNITY NEWS JEROLINE D. MCCARTHY

“Children are very impressionable and learn best by exposure and doing,” said chaperone Dr. Betty Despenza Green. “Therefore, they need to be exposed to symphony, opera, and all genres of dance and music.”

“It was a cultural experience, giving them exposure to different cultures,” said chaperone Adrienne Ellison, “and a start to developing an appreciation of music.”

The investment of funds for support to the symphony society enabled the kids to experience the mainstream dance theater for the first time.

Fish fry at First Church Let a “fish fry” be your next destination for dining on March 17, 6 p.m., at the First Church of Palm Coast.

Enjoy two sides, a roll, tilapia or whiting - with or without the bone - and dessert for only $10.

Fish sandwiches are available at $5.

First Church, at 91 Old Kings Road North in Palm Coast, can be reached at 386-446-5759.

Different cultures

‘Funraisers’ scheduled by AACHO

The Rev. Dr. Gillard S. Glover, founder of Palm Harbor Academy, is also pastor of the First Church of Palm Coast. The charter school, an outgrowth of the pastor’s vision, was founded as a center of educational excellence and an alternative educational opportunity.

Students from the academy and Buddy Taylor Middle School geared up for the theater. All of the students are members of the First Church Youth Choir.

Members of the Afro-American Caribbean Heritage Organization (AACHO) are planning scholarship “funraisers,” updating community news, and offering informative speakers at the Meeting Room.

AACHO President Vivian Richardson announced that it’s a regular meeting on March 21, 5 p.m., at the Meeting Room - next door to Realty Exchange in the Island Walk Shopping Center of Palm Coast.

COURTESY OF KEISHA VANLIEROP, FIRST CHURCH MEDIA SUPPORT TEAM

Given the experience of attending the mainstream dance theater, the kids were chaperoned by Daytona Times columnist Jeroline D. McCarthy, Dr. Betty Despenza Green, Adrienne Ellison, and Kay Norman (not shown). Choir Director Nathaniel Shropshire III stayed behind to prepare for other events.

All are invited.

For further details, call 386446-6935.

‘Motown Madness’ showcases March 25 An “Evening of Motown Madness” will showcase the tenacity of benefitting the George Washington Carver Community Center and sensationalize the Traces of Gold Band on March 25, 6 to 10 p.m., at the George Washington Carver Community Center, 201 Drain Street East, Bunnell.

It will be a mix of music, dancing, and dinner at $50 per person and will benefit the accomplishments of the George Washington Carver Foundation, a 501(c) (3) organization, designated to fundraise for the George Washington Carver Community Center.

“We’ve been quite successful in upgrading and expanding the facility, as well as providing academic, sports and other opportunities for the residents of Bunnell, Palm Coast, and the other surrounding communities,” said educator/mentor Dr. Betty Despenza Green, who’s known to fundraise for educational institutions.

“Last year was a blast. Friends

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must come prepared to dance and have fun,” she explained.

“The foundation is comprised of professionals from the Flagler County School Board, Flagler County Board of Commissioners, the Flagler County Sheriff’s Department, Housing Authority, and community members and business representatives.”

For ticket purchase or other details, contact Cheryl Massaro of the George Washington Carver Community Governance Board.

Her phone number is 386-4377540 ext. 5101 or email massaroc@flaglerschools.com.

Shows will feature gospel favorites Evangelist Mary King will take it to the top of her reign and showcase gospel talent.

“Mary’s Love for Gospel” will emanate from Frieda Zamba Recreational Complex, 339 Parkview Drive, located behind the Wadsworth Elementary School in Palm Coast.

Again, you will stand to your feet, swaying to the amazing gospel favorites on April 21 and 22, 5:30 p.m.

In 2007, Evangelist King began garnering my interest in the

Mary McLeod Bethune Women’s Conference set for March 27-28 The eighth annual Mary McLeod Bethune Women’s Conference is slated for March 27 and 28 on the campus of Bethune-Cookman University.

The theme this year is “Her Legacy…Our Calling,” said Dr. Claudette McFadden, chairperson for the 2017 conference.

The conference will kick off at 6 p.m. Monday, March 27 with a free showing of the film Dr. Lucille “Hidden Figures” in the Mary O’Neal McLeod Bethune Performing Arts Center, 698 W. International Speedway Boulevard.

Besides the film, there will be a panel discussion. Among the panelists will be members of the University’s Board of Trustees, including Dr. Lucille O’Neal, Dr. La-Doris McClaney, Dr. Michelle CartDr. Michelle er-Scott, and trustee Joyce Carter-Scott Odongo.

McFadden said organizers hope to attract upward of 1,000 women for the night.

She said guests are asked to wear white.

Jones to speak The conference continues Tuesday, March 28 from 8:30 Davina a.m. to 5 p.m. in the Michael Jones and Libby Johnson Center for Civic Engagement with a series of sessions.

Topics will include “Social Justice: Fired Up. Ready to Go,” and “It’s All About Us: Research by Women. Research About Women.”

Attendees are asked to dress in black.

One of the highlights of the Tuesday program will be a special luncheon. Educator and author Davina Jones is the invited keynote speaker for “Women & the Power of Now Luncheon.”

Jones, who holds a doctoral degree in communication studies from Bowling Green State University, is director of Adler University’s Media and Communications master’s degree program and pastor of Mountain Top International (MTI) Empowerment in Tampa.

She also is a 1994 graduate of BethuneCookman University.

gospel shows, and the excitement has not let up!

The evangelist’s love for gospel music began as a child and continues to regenerate spectacular showEvangelist stoppers.

Mary King The ticket price is $25 per person. Tickets can be reserved in advance by emailing whisper2u38@gmail.com, texting 386237-516, or calling 386-445-9717.

Tickets are also available to purchase at the door.

••• As always, remember our prayers for the sick, afflicted and bereaved.

Celebrations Birthday wishes to Ronald Ambrose, March 16; Devin Price, Patrice Henderson, and Maxine Hicks on her 90th birthday, March 17; Myles Baker, March 18; Reggie Pincham, March 19; Christopher Robinson, March 21; and Mason Sword, Arthur Pete, and Rory Ragoonan, March 22.

The Monday conference kick-off program and Tuesday sessions are free to the public, McFadden said.

For more information, contact McFadden at 386-481-2753 or by email at mcfaddec@ cookman.edu

Section 8 applications available April 6 to 8 Volusia County’s Community Assistance Division will accept pre-applications for the Housing Choice Voucher Program (Section 8) waiting list from 12:01 a.m. April 6 to 11:59 p.m. April 8.

Applications must be submitted online at www.volusia.org/section8.

Interested persons can apply from a personal computer, mobile phone or tablet.

Public-use computers are available at all public libraries and human services offices during regular business hours.

Preferences are available for Volusia County residents, homeless individuals and families, families that were terminated from the county’s Section 8 program due to insufficient funding, persons who are 62 or older or have disabilities, persons who are employed at least 30 hours a week for the six months before submitting a pre-application, and those working an average of 20 hours a week and attending school or job training for 10 or more hours a week.

About the program To qualify for the available preferences, individuals and families must provide supportive documentation.

Persons with a disability or limited English proficiency who need assistance to complete a pre-application must contact the Section 8 office by March 27 to schedule an appointment.

The Housing Choice Voucher Program (Section 8) is the federal government’s major program that assists very-low and low-income families, including the elderly and the disabled, to afford decent, safe and sanitary housing in the private market.

As Volusia County’s public housing agency, the Community Assistance Division administers approximately 322 housing choice vouchers. This is the first time the county has opened its Section 8 waiting list since 2009.

For more information, contact the Community Assistance Division at 386-736-5955 or section8wl@volusia.org.

R4

7 EDITORIAL

MARCH 16 – MARCH 22, 2017

VISUAL VIEWPOINT: THE GOP AND OBAMACARE

Trump playing ‘dodgeball’ with federal agencies There are few Americans over the age of 10 who have not seen or participated in a game of “dodgeball.”

For those of my era, it was the quintessential hand-eye-body coordination game in which the “dodger,” if skillful and athletic, could avoid being struck and disqualified by a ball hurled by adversarial throwers.

Three players In my earliest memories, the game was played with a minimum of three players – one dodger and two throwers. In a push, with a rubber ball and hard wall from which the ball could bounce, it could even be played with one dodger and one thrower. This is Dodgeball1.0.

In high school, when organized fitness activities involved larger numbers of participants, the numbers of dodgers and throwers were increased. The object of the game changed somewhat.

While the number of throwers never decreased, the dodgers would eventually be eliminated as they were struck by the balls of the throwers. Ultimately, the last dodger standing was declared the winner. This was Dodgeball 2.0.

Knocked out The common thread in both versions of dodgeball was that the projectiles that would ultimately disqualify and knock you out of the game came fast and fu-

DR. E. FAYE WILLIAMS, ESQ. TRICE EDNEY WIRE

Trump and his cronies are simultaneously taking aim at so many essential government programs that only the most aware observers can keep up with the action or mount a defense for these programs. rious. Only the strong and nimble survived.

Although less than two months old, the Trump administration reminds me greatly of both dodgeball versions, especially Dodgeball 2.0. In its inimitable fashion, the Trump administration has placed certain “targets” under fire for disqualification and elimination.

Trump and his cronies are si-

Viola Davis earns a historic distinction “In my mind I see a line, and over that line, I see green fields and lovely flowers and beautiful White women with their arms stretched out to me over that line, but I can’t seem to get there no how. I can’t seem to get over that line.” – Harriet Tubman, quoted

by Viola Davis in her 2015 Emmy acceptance speech Acting’s “triple crown” – Oscar, Emmy and Tony – has been won by only 23 people in history. Now, the first African-American has achieved that feat: Viola Davis.

Fitting honor It seems fitting that Davis’ history-making honor occurred directly at the crossroads of Black History Month and Women’s History Month, for she made history as a Black woman in more than one way: she also is the

MARC H. MORIAL TRICE EDNEY NEWS WIRE

most-nominated Black actress in Oscar history, with three nominations.

In addition to her role in “Fences,” for which she won, she earned nominations for “The Help” in 2012 and “Doubt” in 2009. She was nominated twice for an Emmy, winning in 2015 for her role in “How to Get Away with Murder.” She earned three Tony nominations, winning for “King Hedley II” in 2001 and “Fences” in 2010.

She’s the first Black actress to win five Screen Actors Guild

Speak out and protect your health For six years, Republicans have repeated the same phrase in every conversation about healthcare: “repeal and replace” the Affordable Care Act (ACA).

Now that Republicans control all levers of government, they are preparing legislation to strip 30 million Americans of the everyday security of health insurance.

The impact of any repeal would be massive and disastrous. Experts estimate that repealing the ACA will kill 43,000 Americans every year. A disproportionate number of these deaths will be from the African-American community.

Significant law The ACA is the most significant piece of health equity legislation we’ve had in a generation. It reduced the number of African-

U.S. REP. ROBIN KELLY GUEST COMMENTARY

Americans living without health insurance by more than half.

We know that increased coverage has decreased the number of Americans dying from cancer.

A recent report by the American Cancer Society showed that cancer deaths have declined by 25 percent since peaking in 1991.

Reduces cancer risk In their report, the American Cancer Society specifically notes that the ACA is driving “these shifts [that] should help to expedite progress in reducing socio-

multaneously taking aim at so many essential government programs that only the most aware observers can keep up with the action or mount a defense for these programs. Each of these targets has been forced into a struggle for survival, but, unlike Dodgeball 2.0, disqualification or elimination is a life-or-death matter for innumerable Americans.

‘Deconstructing’ government At the recent CPAC gathering, Trump advisor Steve Bannon identified a primary goal of the Trump administration as the “deconstruction of the administrative state.”

Thus comes the nomination of the education secretary without public education experience or affinity; the Environmental Protection Agency director who sued the EPA; the secretary of health and human services who demonstrates little or no concern for common Americans; and the attorney general with a questionable history in the application of “blind justice.”

Bannon praised Trump’s Cabinet picks and confirmed that “they were selected for a reason, and that is deconstruction.” Common to Dodgeball 2.0, the onslaught against the targets of deconstruction is coming at breakneck speed, providing almost no opportunity for defense.

Deconstruction is the act of tearing down. It is the undoing

awards. She had also won three Drama Desk Awards, a BAFTA Award, a Golden Globe, and three Critics’ Choice Awards, among others.

A Hollywood story When she was honored with a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame earlier this year, Davis marveled, “I can’t believe my life.” Indeed, her own story is worthy of the Hollywood treatment.

She was raised in poverty by a mother who was a maid and factory worker. She told the New York Times she stole food from the grocery store and garbage cans and wore the plastic clips from bread bags in her braids.

Davis credits a federal anti-poverty program, Upward Bound, with saving her life. She told Essence magazine, “They kind of picked up where public school left off because I had such enormous needs as a child of abject poverty. Coming from a background where I was first generation going to school, I had enormous challenges that needed to be met that were much

economic disparities in cancer, as well as other health conditions.” The report also lauded the ACA for helping to decrease the “excess risk of cancer death” facing African-Americans.

The ACA has also significantly expanded mental and behavioral treatment access, especially to community hospitals and schools. The Office of Minority Health notes that African-Americans are 20 percent more likely to experience “serious mental health problems.” Yet, only a quarter of African-Americans seek mental healthcare, compared to 40 percent of White Americans.

Why repeal it?

Thanks to the ACA, we are starting to see that gap close and more people are receiving the care they need to live healthy, productive lives. We know that the ACA saving lives, so why are President Trump and Congressional Republicans so determined to repeal it?

This question is truly vexing when you consider the fact that,

RJ MATSON, ROLL CALL

of established norms, principles and guidelines. For those of us who care, it is a reversal of progress. It is an about-face on providing a tangible safety net to the most vulnerable among us.

The most obvious objective of this deconstruction is evisceration of the Affordable Care Act, also known as “Obamacare.”

For eight years, the nation has watched and/or participated in the Obamacare debate.

Just correct the flaws President Obama and other key Democratic leaders have stipulated the need to correct some of the flaws of this program. But what goes unquestioned is that 20 million-plus citizens who were previously ineligible for medical insurance now have coverage.

That is 20 million Americans who by current estimates will have in-

deeper than academia.”

Upward Bound, a summer program where high school students take college prep classes and earn work experience at a college campus for six weeks, opened doors that eventually led to the Juilliard School, one of the nation’s leading performing arts programs.

Her success has not shielded her from challenges that she has said result from being “a woman of color, of a certain age, and a certain hue.” Her 2015 Emmy win established her as a role model when she used her acceptance speech to make a welcome statement about diversity in the entertainment industry:

‘Simply not there’ “The only thing that separates women of color from anyone else is opportunity,” she said. “You cannot win an Emmy for roles that are simply not there.”

She was the first Black woman to win the award for Best Lead Actress in a Drama. Only one other Black actress has won an acting Emmy: Isabel Sanford,

in addition to the tens of thousands of Americans who will die every year, we will also add trillions to the national debt and increase taxes.

According to the GOP’s budget resolution, repealing the ACA would add $29.1 trillion to the national debt over the next 10 years. That’s more than $90,000 for every American citizen.

But the fiscal pain doesn’t end there. A GOP Senate bill and recently leaked audio from the Republican retreat confirms that Congressional Republicans are plotting a tax hike. If you, like the majority of Americans, get health insurance through work, Republicans plan to give you a bigger tax bill.

Even Republicans are skeptical of this proposal. Senator Bill Cassidy (R-La.), said, “It sounds like we are going to be raising taxes on the middle class in order to pay for these new credits.”

Our choice Now that we know the fact, we have a choice. Do we allow President Trump and Congressional

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adequate or no health insurance under the current Republican offering.

Yet in the sound and fury of the Trump administration’s efforts to reshape our government from the ground up, there is little forward motion in investigating the impact of a hostile foreign government on the integrity of our election process and security of our democracy. It hardly seems fair or reasonable.

It is, however, what we can expect from those who value life by the size of one’s bank account or one’s political preference.

Dr. E. Faye Williams is national chair of the National Congress of Black Women, Inc. Contact her via www.nationalcongressbw.org. Click on this commentary at www.daytonatimes.com to write your own response.

who won for Best Lead Actress in a Comedy in 1981.

Davis’ exemplarity extends beyond her stellar talent and bold outspokenness. She’s a benefactor for the Rhode Island city where she was raised, Central Falls. Her philanthropic projects include the city’s Adams Memorial Library, the Central Falls High School chess team and drama club, and the Segue Institute for Learning, a charter school. She’s also the spokeswoman for the Hunger Is campaign, to eradicate childhood hunger.

We at the National Urban League consider Viola Davis a true woman of power. We congratulate her on her historic achievements and her epic journey and are grateful for her generous spirit and sense of community.

Marc Morial is president and CEO of the National Urban League. Click on this commentary at www.daytonatimes. com to write your own response.

Republicans to undo President Obama’s legacy, imperiling and killing thousands of Americans by ripping away their health insurance or fight back?

To me, there is only one option. We fight back for ourselves, our families and our community. Here’s how to fight back: Add your Senators’ and Congressperson’s phone numbers to your speed dial or call the Congressional switchboard at (202) 2243121.

Remember, we work for you and Congress needs to hear from you! Together, we can stop the repeal of the Affordable Care Act and stand up for our fellow Americans’ right to live a long, healthy life.

Congresswoman Robin Kelly represents Illinois’s 2nd Congressional district and chairs the Congressional Black Caucus’s Health Braintrust. Follow her on Twitter at @RepRobinKelly. Click on this commentary at www.daytonatimes. com to write your own response.

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5 7

M AHEALTH YOR

MARCH 16 – MARCH 22, 2017 DECEMBER 14 - 20, 2006

come swath of California — has seen an unprecedented spike in congenital syphilis over the last few years. It’s part of an overall rise in syphilis and other sexually transmitted diseases across California and the nation.

Health professionals fear rates could rise even further if President Donald Trump and the Republican Congress repeal the Affordable Care Act and people lose access to reproductive health care.

“STD rates aren’t going to just stop,” said Natasha Felkins, a health educator for Planned Parenthood in Bakersfield, the main city in Kern County. “When health coverage goes away or when things are cut, we are going to see numbers increase and that’s going to affect all of us.”

Worrisome rise

HEIDI DE MARCO/KAISER HEALTH NEWS/TNS

Eleece Wilbon, 20, from Bakersfield, Calif., said she knew about STDs but it wasn’t until she started hearing about the crisis in Kern County that she truly realized the dangers.

Syphilis spike among newborns driven by broader epidemic

BY ANNA GORMAN AND HEIDI DE MARCO KAISER HEALTH NEWS/TNS

BAKERSFIELD, Calif. – Neonatologist Gurvir Khurana had only read about it in textbooks.

Seeing it in real life has been a

shock: Baby after baby born severely anemic, lungs filled with fluid, bodies covered with rashes.

Some only lived minutes; others died within days or weeks.

The cause: congenital syphilis.

They are all born to mothers with syphilis. Many of the mothers arrive at the hospital to give

birth never having had prenatal care, unaware they have the disease — let alone that they could pass it along to their unborn babies. The infants who survive carry an elevated risk of long-term health problems.

“It’s been an absolute explosion,” said Khurana, who works

at four hospitals in California’s Central Valley. “It’s just spreading very, very quickly. Kern County has a huge public health problem on its hands.”

Nationwide increase The Central Valley — a vast agricultural and mostly low-in-

Across the U.S., sexually transmitted diseases are at an all-time high, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.

The rate of syphilis among women increased 27 percent from 2014 to 2015, and congenital syphilis increased by 6 percent. Preliminary data show the trend continued into 2016, with syphilis among women rising another 21 percent and congenital syphilis 4 percent.

The rise is worrisome, especially given that syphilis had almost disappeared by about 2000, said Gail Bolan, director of the CDC’s division of sexually transmitted disease prevention.

“There was great hope for syphilis elimination in the United States,” Bolan said. “Unfortunately, our national data now show that syphilis is thriving.”

Impact on women Bolan said CDC officials are closely monitoring the epidemic of syphilis around the nation, urging states to explore the roles of poverty, limited health care access, drugs and incarceration and to address those factors.

They are watching with particular concern the spike in cases among women, and encouraging more testing, treatment and education.

“Rises in women, especially women of reproductive age … are a bellwether for when we are going to start seeing more congenital syphilis,” Bolan said.

Tips to help maintain a healthier lifestyle FAMILY FEATURES

When it comes to creating and maintaining healthy habits, all the admonishments to “stop this” and “don’t do that” can be overwhelming. While there are some things you do need to cut back on, finding better balance is the true key to better heart health. You may be surprised by the things you should actually do more of in your pursuit of a healthier lifestyle.

With these tips from DSM Nutritional Products, you can put a priority on your health.

Increase your stress-busting activity Whether you favor exercise, yoga or meditation, finding effective ways to channel your stress can help support the health of your heart. It’s no secret that stress makes your blood pressure rise, and that puts extra strain on your heart. Soothing your nerves keeps your stress in check and moderates your blood pressure.

Remember that managing your stress doesn’t even have to be a formal activity; you may find relief from simply relaxing with

Halifax Health to host colon health awareness event In recognition of March being National Colon Cancer Awareness Month, Halifax Health is hosting a free colon health awareness event on Wednesday, March 22 at Halifax Health Medical Center of Daytona Beach, 303 N. Clyde Morris Boulevard, from 4 to 6 p.m.

Presented by the Halifax Health – Center for Oncology,

a book or a cup of tea, or enjoying casual time with loved ones.

Whatever strategy works for you, try to make a stress-reducing effort part of your everyday routine.

Balance caloric intake Instead of viewing weight management in terms of what you can’t have or have to do, consider thinking of your diet as a teeter-totter that you need to keep in balance. Overeating and indulging in nutrient-poor foods makes one side drop, but physical activity and regular exercise brings the other side down.

Strive for a balance so you’re burning the calories you’re taking in; consume fewer calories and exercise more to help support a balanced weight. When it comes to the calories you consume, be sure they’re from nutrient-rich sources so your body reaps maximum benefits from its fuel.

Check omega-3 levels Omega-3 fatty acids are a family of polyunsaturated fats, including eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA) and docosahexaenoic ac-

the educational event will provide attendees with information on prevention, treatment and local resources.

The event’s guest speaker will be Stacey Scrabis, a registered dietitian for the Halifax Health – Center for Oncology. Scrabis’ presentation will focus on ways to maintain a healthy lifestyle for a healthy colon. Halifax Health physicians and patient navigators will also take part in the event.

50,000 deaths annually According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, among cancers that affect

COURTESY OF GETTY IMAGES

Overeating and indulging in nutrient-poor foods makes one side drop, but physical activity and regular exercise brings the other side down. id (DHA), that numerous studies have shown to have heart-health benefits.

More specifically, supportive but inconclusive research shows omega-3s EPA and DHA may help to reduce the risk of coronary artery disease – the leading cause of death among both men and women, according to the

Food and Drug Administration and the American Heart Association. Omega-3 fatty acids can be found in fatty fish, such as salmon, tuna, anchovies and sardines, as well as vegetarian sources like algae.

If you don’t eat fish on a regular basis, you can find high-quality supplements containing ome-

both men and women, colorectal cancer (cancer of the colon or rectum) is the second leading cause of cancer deaths in the United States. Each year, approximately 140,000 Americans are diagnosed with colorectal cancer and more than 50,000 people die from the disease.

Colorectal cancer is highly preventable through early detection. Medical professionals recommend screenings beginning at age 50. Screenings are recommended even earlier for those individuals with a family history of cancer.

Screening tests help prevent colorectal cancer by find-

ing precancerous polyps (abnormal growths) so they can be removed. Screenings also find this cancer early when treatment can be most effective.

Affecting the young Although risk for colorectal cancer increases with age, with more than 90 percent of colorectal cancers occurring in people aged 50 and older, a recently released study published by the National Cancer Institute has found that rates are rising sharply among young and middle-aged Americans.

The study did not identify a reason for the rise of this disease

ga-3 fatty acids, such as fish oil or algal oil.

Be sure to consult your health care provider before starting any supplement program, and ask your health care practitioner to check your omega-3 levels to make sure you are getting enough heart-healthy fats in your diet.

Learn more at knowyouro.com.

in younger adult groups known as Generation X and millenials, but researchers suggest one explanation might be a complex interaction involving the same factors that have contributed to the obesity epidemic, including a change in diet, a sedentary lifestyle, excess weight and low fiber consumption.

In light of this new research, the American Cancer Society is reviewing if screenings should begin at a younger age.

To RSVP for Halifax Health’s colon health awareness event, call 386-425-4545.

R6

7 CLASSIFIEDS

MARCH 16 – MARCH 22, 2017

Sorority to host Designer Bag Bingo event The members of the Gamma Lambda Zeta Chapter of Zeta Phi Beta Sorority will host its second annual Designer Bag Bingo on Saturday, March 18 at Allen Chapel AME Church, 580 George W. Engram Blvd., Daytona Beach. Doors open at 11:30 a.m.

Bingo is from noon to 3 p.m. The event will include prizes for designer handbags.

Lunch will be served and door prizes will be given.

Tickets are $45. For tickets, call Crystal at 904-616-8499 for tickets or purchase online at www.memberplanet.com/events/ gammalambdazeta/ designerbingo.

A portion of the proceeds will support cancer research/ treatment, promoting healthy babies, and other community initiatives.

Girls meet successful sisters during Women’s History Month tour During Women’s History Month each year, the Palm Coast/Flagler County Alumnae Chapter of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority’s Delta GEMS/Delta Academy Programs embark on a career tour.

The March tour is to the job sites of successful professional African-American women.

This year, the tour included the Fla-

gler County School’s African American Mentoring Program for girls, Imagine School Young Girls of Color program, Chi Delta T:7”Omega Chapter of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority’s Ascend Network Youth Leadership Program, as well as the Ebony Society & Emerald Legacy of Flagler Palm Coast High School.

The tour included a stop to see Sgt. Karen Pierce, the first Black woman sergeant with the Volusia County Sheriff’s Office, the office of real estate broker Lucy Stewart Desmore, along with the classroom of Dr. Latreace Flynt, a professor at Bethune-Cookman University.

WAYS FOR YOu TO STAY pOSiTivE

impROving hER mOOd

7

M ASPORTS YOR

MARCH 16 – MARCH 22, 2017 DECEMBER 14 - 20, 2006

in touch with those old teammates.

“I talk with many of them on the regular, including T.T., Vince and even those before me like Mike Polite and those after me like Tony Bobbit and Tim Pickett.

All those played pro ball at some level. I train with them. They give me good advice. They told me to get it back how it was and show the kids work ethic that we had both on and off the court,” Giddens noted.

More than football

PHOTOS COURTESY OF JOE GIDDENS

Joe Giddens was formerly the boys coach at Spruce Creek High School.

Giddens ready to return Mainland to basketball glory

‘A lot of fun’

HIGH SCHOOL SPORTS

BY ANDREAS BUTLER DAYTONA TIMES

Daytona Beach native and former Mainland High School basketball standout Joe Giddens is the new boys basketball coach at Mainland.

Giddens leaves the boys program at Spruce Creek in Port Orange.

“It’s all about timing. Spruce Creek has really been good to me. They helped me grow as a coached. I was there for about 16 years. When I first got the job there, I still knew that I always wanted to be at Mainland,” said.

“When the opportunity came, I just had to take it. If, I didn’t’ take the job someone else would have and I may have never gotten the chance again.’’

Replaces McCoy Giddens led the Spruce Creek Hawks to an 18-7 record this past season.

He will take over the Buccaneers program from Landis McCoy, who stepped down last month.

Giddens is ready for the challenges ahead.

“I don’t take anything away from Landis who did a great job.

I have to change the mindset of the kids. I’ve got to let them know what it’s like to work hard and what it’s like to win a championship at Mainland. They must buy into what I am teaching, which is often difficult for kids with a coaching change,” Giddens told the Daytona Times.

Getting the community behind the team is critical for Giddens.

He said, “I want to get the community involved to support the team in anyway. I want our team volunteering and helping in the community. If they call,

Returning the Buccaneers to basketball glory isn’t the only goal.

“We want the glory back. People always call Mainland a football school, but we are actually good at both. I am just going to come in and teach what I know and try to help the kids step their game up to the next level. We also want to make the boys into good men,” expressed Giddens.

Being a product of Daytona’s inner city helps Giddens relate to kids in a different way.

He explained, “I think that helps. Being a Mainland kid I know what it’s like. Also, being from the area I know what it’s like for these kids. I’ve worked with kids in this area at Spruce Creek, but not as many as I will at Mainland. Now I can be in the community more and more hands-on. I can go to the gyms where they play and let them see my face more. I’ll be in the same neighborhood as them.”

As Spruce Creek’s basketball coach, Joe Giddens had a 160-58 record with four playoff appearances in eight seasons. we will be there. I want the business community involved too. At Creek, there is a lot of community support and Mainland can be the same way.”

Championship player Giddens graduated from Mainland in 1996. He was a standout in both football and basketball.

He played on two basketball state championship teams (1995 and 1996) and four Final Four squads.

“I think that all helps me as a coach. I think the kids can see pictures of those teams and be inspired,” he remarked. “Also, the kids in the neighborhood have seen the success that I had at Spruce Creek. I’m coming in hungry and knowing what needs to be done. I will be demanding and tough from the beginning.”

In high school, Giddens won a one state title with NBA star Vince Carter (1995) and two with Arena Football star T.T. Toliver (1995 and 1996). Giddens keeps

Coaching his new team against his old team will be different.

“It will be different! It will be a lot of emotions. That’s where I started coaching. I coached the other team. I think at the end of the day it will be a lot of fun. I left Spruce Creek in good standing,” Giddens stated.

Giddens achievements include: • 96-38 record with four playoff appearances in five seasons as Spruce Creek girls’ basketball coach.

• 160-58 record with four playoff appearances in eight seasons as Spruce Creek boys’ basketball coach.

• Bethune-Cookman College (now University) graduate.

• Played football and basketball at Bethune-Cookman.

• Member of Omega Psi Phi Fraternity, Inc. • Played arena football with the Toronto Phantoms of the Arena Football League; Daytona Beach Hawgs of the NIFL and Daytona Thunder of the AIFL and WIFL.

Warriors’ Iguodala fined $10,000 for racial comments

BY ANTHONY SLATER MERCURY NEWS/TNS

OAKLAND, Calif. – For the first time since his racially charged, controversial postgame comments in Minneapolis late Friday night (March 10), Andre Iguodala spoke with gathered reporters at the team’s Monday afternoon practice in Oakland.

Iguodala didn’t backtrack, but expressed regret at the timing of the comments and who they were perceived to be directed toward. Iguodala said the n-word three times and then, when asked about Steve Kerr’s decision to rest him and others in San Antonio the next night, Iguodala said “I just do what master say.”

‘Wrong time’ There was an immediate backlash. He was fined $10,000 by the NBA on Monday.

“It probably was the wrong time to express myself,” Iguodala said minutes before the fine was announced. “We all have our own opinions. We all have our own feelings. I feel like we’re entitled to them. We just try to pick and choose the time to do it and who you share it with.

“Because some may not understand where you’re coming from, which is to be expected. I feel like it’s the wrong time because it puts my team in the situa-

tion and my coaching staff in that situation. I have a great relationship with Steve Kerr. And he knows that.

Iguodala continued, “He spoke to you guys about it.

But Steve in his words still may not be … someone still may not believe him.

But he and I are in a great place. We don’t even have to speak about it because in no way shape or form was I talking about him.”

Not offended Kerr has twice been questioned about it. He said he discussed the situation with Iguodala, wanted to keep that conversation private but didn’t take exception to what was said.

“He wasn’t talking about me,” Kerr said. “I wasn’t the slightest bit offended.

As I mentioned the other night, he has a very cryptic sense of humor,’’ Kerr said.

“The only thing I’d say, there’s certain humorous things you should say in the sanctity of the locker room and there’s certain humorous things you might want to keep from the media. That was one of them and he knows that.”

Playing ‘mind games’ Iguodala regularly engages in obscure discussions with reporters (and others), often off the record. This time it wasn’t.

“I like to have fun with you guys,” Iguodala said.

CURTIS COMPTON/ATLANTA JOURNAL CONSTITUTION/TNS

Golden State Warriors’ Andre Iguodala drives against Atlanta Hawks’ Dwight Howard during the second half on March 6 in Atlanta. The Warriors beat the Hawks, 119-111.

“I shouldn’t say fun. I like to play mind games with you guys. But it still doesn’t take away how someone may feel. A lot of guys may feel a certain way, but they don’t know how to express it. I may have chosen the wrong way to express it.

That’s my personal way at getting back at you guys a little bit.”

‘Master’ mystery Questions still remain about who exactly the “master” comment was directed toward. If it wasn’t Kerr, could it have been at the league for the grueling schedule that led to the Warriors resting Iguodala, among others? Iguodala was asked directly but, no surprise, answered a bit cryptically.

“You’re having conversations with a group every single day,” Iguodala said.

“They thrust themselves so much into your lives, it’s almost like you have a robotic type of mindset. You can have a mentality of past or present groups of people, generations. You can feel similar, not the same, but similar. You can speak up on the same routine and

kind of grind. Like I said, may not have been the right time or place to speak.

“He continued, “But that doesn’t change the way someone may feel. I feel like that’s what everyone has to respect. If someone feels a certain way, you can’t say they’re a bad person, as long as there’s no prejudice or ill intent toward you.”

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7MARCH 16 – MARCH 22, 2017

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