Daytona Times - December 29, 2016

Take action now to save for retirement SEE PAGE 5

East Central Florida’s Black Voice

EE FR

REV. JESSE JACKSON: THIS IS A SEASON OF JUSTICE AND RIGHTEOUSNESS PAGE 4

IT’S A REBUILDING YEAR FOR MAINLAND BASKETBALL TEAM SEE PAGE 7

DECEMBER 29, 2016 - JANUARY 4, 2017

YEAR 41 NO. 52

OUR TOP 10 STORIES The Daytona Times staff chose the top 10 of the many stories our newspaper staff reviewed, covered or wrote this year. Factors considered include newsworthiness, local relevance, uniqueness, and emotional impact.

1

Hurricane Matthew – The storm ripped through the state and didn’t spare East Central Florida.

Matthew was a wind machine, causing lots of damage. It damaged homes and businesses in Flagler and Volusia Counties.

Snapped trees and downed power lines were everywhere, and some residents were left without power for more than a week.

Daytona Beach was thrust in the national spotlight for days as news agencies covered the storm extensively.

Along with extensive damage to cars and homes, the hurricane did damage to Municipal Stadium in Daytona Beach, Spec Martin Stadium in DeLand, Jackie Robinson Ballpark, Daytona International Speedway, New Smyrna Speedway, city buildings and local churches. Repairs and clean up from the storm continue. Dec. 16 was the deadline to apply for FEMA assistance.

2

Orange Avenue construction – Work still lingers on the Orange Avenue infrastructure project although though most of the pavement has been laid. The $13.4 million project replaced

power lines, sewage, storm drainage, water lines, improved lighting, signage, widen sidewalks, among other improvements.

Construction was delayed mainly by issues with underground power lines and pipes. Hurricane Matthew also caused delays. Businesses and residents have been frustrated with the pace of the project.

Some merchants filed a lawsuit against the city due to a loss of business during the project, which started in 2014.

www.daytonatimes.com

2016

3

Huger sues the city – Thomas Huger, son of former Daytona Beach City Commissioner Dr. James Huger, filed an age discrimination suit against the city in August. Thomas Huger, in his 60s, was turned down for a position last year as deputy Public Works director. The position went to David Waller, a younger White male. The lawsuit states that Waller was less qualified, had less work experience than Huger, and has less education.

Huger filed a claim against the city last year with the Equal Employment OpportuSTEPHEN M. DOWELL/ORLANDO SENTINEL/TNS nity Commission (EEOC) citing racial and age bias.

Uprooted palm trees are stacked on the beach in front of homes in Flagler Beach See 2016, Page A2

on Oct. 8 after Hurricane Matthew devastated the area.

New Campbell principal has ‘plan of action’ to boost scores

BY ANDREAS BUTLER DAYTONA TIMES

When school reopens after the holiday break, there will be a new principal at Campbell Middle in Daytona Beach.

Dr. Jerry L. Picott takes over the school located at 625 South Keech St., which is in the heart of the Black community.

“For me it’s like being in the military and coming back home.

It is family here for me. I have my roots in education here at Campbell. This is the place that made me the educator that I am today,” Picott told the Daytona Times.

Goal: Academic success PHOTOS BY DUANE C. FERNANDEZ SR./HARDNOTTSPHOTOGRAPHY.COM

Holiday celebrations for everyone Area residents celebrate Chanukah and Kwanzaa Chanukah (Hanukkah) is an eight-day Jewish festival also known as the Festival of Lights. Jews observe the festival by lighting one candle on a nine-branched menorah each day.

The holiday begins on the 25th day of Kislev – the ninth month of the ecclesiastical year on the Hebrew calendar – and is celebrated for eight days.

This year, Hanukkah began on the evening of Dec. 24 and will end the evening of Jan. 1.

Locally, a Chanukah Festival was held on Dec. 18 at the Schnebly Recreation Center in Daytona Beach.

The event included music, food, activities for kids, and a character appearance of Princess Elsa from the movie “Frozen.’’

Kwanzaa celebrated too This also is the week for celebrating Kwanzaa. Created 50 years ago by Dr. Maulana Karenga, a professor, activist and author, Kwanzaa is a time when families share stories and presents – often relating to African-American history.

Kwanzaa — which began Monday and runs through Jan. 1 — is centered on seven principals, known as the Nguzo Saba: unity (in Swahili, umoja), self-determination (kujichagulia), collective work and responsibility (ujima), purpose (nia), creativ-

Picott comes to Campbell after serving as principal of Alternative Education for Volusia County Schools, where he oversaw eight different sites.

“For me my tenure in alternative education was uplifting.

My primary goal was to inspire the students and show them that how to get back on track and that they could recover and achieve.

They must learn how to be accountable to become successful in school,’’ he explained.

Leading Campbell to academic success is the goal.

See PICOTT, Page 2

ity (kuumba), faith (imani) and collective economics (ujamaa).

Also during Kwanzaa, there’s the lighting of the kinara, which holds seven candles. Nightly celebrations include music, food and storytelling.

The Mary S. Harrell Black Heritage Museum held its annual Kwanzaa celebration on Dec. 28 at the Alonzo “Babe” James Community Center in New Smyrna Beach.

The African American Cultural Society is hosting a Kwanzaa celebration on Friday, Dec. 30 from 2 p.m. to 4 p.m. at its Cultural Center, 4422 N. US Highway 1. The annual free event is partly supported by a cultural arts grant from the City of Palm Coast.

Dr. Jerry Picott

ALSO INSIDE

COMMUNITY NEWS: PALM COAST RESIDENTS REFLECT ON THE REASON FOR THE SEASON | PAGE 3 COMMENTARY: BILL FLETCHER: TRUMP STAFFERS TARGET EPA, STATE FOR PURSE | PAGE 4

7 FOCUS

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DECEMBER 29, 2016 – JANUARY 4, 2017

From the Bandshell to church: Free activities on New Year’s Eve

BY ANDREAS BUTLER DAYTONA TIMES

There are plenty of options for those looking for free New Year’s Eve activities.

At the Bandshell The City of Daytona Beach is sponsoring a free concert and painting event on New Year’s Eve at the Bandshell.

John Carroll and Cowboys band will present a “Rock with Kid Rock’’ concert. The band plays rock funk, soul and country. The show is from 8 p.m. to 10 p.m.

From 11 p.m. until midnight, rising Italian painter

Marco Perego will be showcasing his talent. He is being sponsored by Vasilaros & Wagner law firm.

“We are trying to put cultural events in our city. We also want to celebrate the holidays and invite families and tourists to come and celebrate with us. We also want to bring families together and build up our community,” said John Cameron, the city’s Cultural Services coordinator.

‘Bigger every year’ Both events are part of the city’s “December to Remember’’ event, which lasts for three weeks around the Christmas and New Year’s holidays.

During the event’s fouryear span, it has grown over the years.

“The crowd has gotten bigger every year. Last year, we estimated 50,000 people participated in our holiday events. This year we have scaled back due to economic reasons, but we still are expecting about 25,000 people to partake,” stated Cameron.

The event includes a concert on Dec. 30 from 7 p.m. until 10:30 p.m. at the Bandshell. The band Pocket Change from Miami is scheduled to perform.

Earlier that day, beginning at 11 a.m., the area will be filled with trains, inflations and food vendors.

‘All White Watch Night’ Most local churches are holding their regular Watch Night services and masses.

However Master’s Domain Church of God in Christ at 511 Fremont Ave. will do something different with its “All White Watch Night Celebration’’ on New Year’s Eve beginning at 10 p.m.

The event is free and open to the public. It will include free food, spoken word, music, dance, a balloon drop, and sparkling cider.

“We’re doing something totally innovative this year.

It’s not an official Black Clergy Alliance event. It’s an individual church thing, but we have reached out to

the Alliance and other entities in the community,” said Pastor Derrick Harris.

The goal is to reach out to the community and welcome outsiders into the church.

“We are really trying to attract those individuals feeling left out. We want to reach out to those who have no church affiliation. We will still glorify God, but this won’t be your traditional service. We want people to know that Christ is a transcending savior,” explained Harris.

The idea of this combination of a service and celebration came from trends across the nation.

“Similar things have been done in some of the major cities with pastors trying to

OUR TOP 10 STORIES

2016 from Page 1

After EEOC complaints were filed against the city and questions were raised by Daytona Beach-Volusia County branch of the NAACP about Daytona Beach’s hiring and promotions practices, the city released a diversity report.

In a series of stories last year, the Daytona Times reported on EEOC claims filed against the city that charge racial discrimination.

Bethune-Cookman students and area residents march to the polls.

Mike Chitwood is elected Volusia County sheriff.

4

Still homeless – Daytona’s homeless situation didn’t get any better in 2016. The city is nowhere near building a permanent shelter, which could cost around $1.2 million to construct.

Scenes of homeless people sleeping outside city and county offices made headlines when the Salvation Army closed its Bridge Bed program after funding had run out. The city helped put people in hotels for a few weeks.

Some residents also disapprove of a plan by Halifax Urban Ministries to turn vacant Hurst Elementary in Holly Hill into Hope Place, a sanctuary for homeless families. The cost is about $3.5 million and the facility could assist anywhere between 200 and 300 people. The city of DeLand revealed plans to build a homeless shelter at a construction cost of $4 million.

5

Local election activities – The 2016 election drew presidential candidates Donald Trump and Hillary Clinton to Daytona Beach.

Trump spoke in front of 8,000 at the Ocean Center, while Clinton visited the Dickerson Center and Municipal Stadium for BethuneCookman University’s football homecoming game. Vice presidential candidate Tim Kaine also spoke at Daytona State College.

Locally, Daytona Beach Police Chief Michael Chitwood defeated four other challengers for Volusia County sheriff. It also was a major win for the Henry family. Derrick was re-elected mayor. His brother Patrick, a city commissioner, was elected to the Florida House of Representatives District 26. Their sister Dannette won the Zone 5 city commission seat vacated by Patrick.

PICOTT from Page 1

“My ultimate goal is to ensure student achievement. These are all of our kids. They are in our community. They all are our responsibility. I don’t believe in classifying kids. I take full responsibility to make sure that the kids have what they need to be successful in the classroom,’’ he expressed.

Picott is up for the challenges ahead.

“I must make sure we can ensure that students have the help, support and guidance that they need to be successful. This calls for the support of our community, business partners, churches, organizations and most importantly the parents. This is a community project,” commented Picott.

Need help, support Picott is aware of ob-

Above: Dr. James Huger is flanked by his Alpha brothers.

Left: Derrick, Dannette and Patrick Henry win their races.

FILE PHOTOS

6

Black Lives Matter and activism – Police shootings and killings of unarmed Blacks around the country led to large-scale protests against racial injustice and police brutality. The Black Lives Matter movement hit home.

Deltona High teacher, physical fitness trainer and longtime Daytona resident Carlos Harris organized a march and rally that drew 200 people on early July following fatal shootings of Black males in Baton Rouge and Minneapolis.

Daytona resident Sean Hamilton organized two other events.

After a shooting in July at a local grocery store, Hamilton organized an event on Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. Boulevard at James Huger Park near the Dickerson Center.

He also helped organize a vigil and prayer in October at Derbyshire Park along with the Rev. Joyce Phelum in honor of Bashawn Johnson, who was shot in killed in front of his family home on Lewis Drive. No arrests have been made.

stacles that many Black children face in schools.

Campbell is a predominantly African-American school.

“I am very humbled that Volusia County has trusted me with the responsibility to restore the academic standards at Campbell Middle School. We must ensure our kids learn,’’ Picott stated.

“We just need help and support from our community with the challenges that we face. It’s twofold with our kids. One is academic concerns and the other is social concerns. I plan on using what we already have in place and expanding on that to help make a difference.”

Test scores Campbell received a failing overall grade from state testing last year. The school also had more than 200 students transfer to other schools before the academic year.

“We must bring up test

7

Local Islamic backlash – In the age of terrorism, backlash against the Islamic community is being seen all across America. Daytona Beach was no exception.

Shortly after the Pulse nightclub shooting in Orlando where 49 people where killed, a police car stationed outside the Islamic Center of Daytona Beach to protect it amid threats got bombed.

The incident made national news headlines.

A note was left behind saying “Black Lives Matter.” It still isn’t clear who left the note but it still raised concerns, especially in the Islamic and Black communities.

Following the Pulse shooting, Regan Creamer, an Atlantic High School senior and daughter of a police sergeant, organized a multi-faith prayer for the victims and their families at the Daytona Beach police station. More than 200 people attended the event.

8

Harlem Park – Joe Harris Park, also known as Harlem Park, remained in the

scores. It will be intense, but we have a plan of action in place,” Picott remarked.

“We can do this by ensuring that the instruction is geared around the standards that are directly aligned to the state testing requirements, align programs to provide additional remediation interventions and accommodations for struggling students mostly through technology and ensure that we have a consistently safe and orderly campus,” Picott added.

He believes in the staff that he has in place.

“We have quality professionals here that absolutely have the ability, knowledge and experience to get the job done,” stated Picott.

Signature programs Picott follows in a great tradition of principals like Earl McCrary, Stan Whitted and Vicky Pressley that came before him.

Campbell has two pro-

headlines this year.

Some residents were upset and criticized what they saw as backroom dealings when they learned that Bethune-Cookman University has taken over stewardship of the park. The school and city both say that the city has ownership, but residents are skeptical.

The park has been fenced up and B-CU security officers patrol it.

The city and institution cite public safety concerns. The park has been the site of several shootings in the past. At a few meetings, residents voiced their anger at both B-CU and city officials. As of now things continue as they are. A possible fight for the park may loom.

9

Billy Jackson laid to rest – After 64 years, the mortal remains of Billy Jackson were returned home to Daytona Beach. His funeral was held in August.

Jackson died at age 13 at the Arthur G. Dozier School for Boys in Marianna, outside of Tallahassee.

He was at the school from August to October 1952.

grams in place in its Night Alive and Principal Pearls programs, which Picot plans to enhance to better assist children.

Night Alive helps with support, activities, food, programs and mentoring while Principal Pearls helps with support and entering of young women.

Picott said, “I plan on providing more assistance with tutoring and mentoring and well as adding our remediation to that program with these two programs.”

reach out to those outside of the church to bring them in and make them feel welcome,” Harris remarked.

Main Street party The annual Main Street New Year’s Eve Party is Dec. 31 at 8 p.m. and will run until 2 a.m. New Year’s Day. Main Street is blocked off between A1A and Peninsula. It includes music, food vendors and a midnight ball drop.

Votran bus service Votran bus service will run its regular operations on New Year’s Eve, including its night services. There will be no bus service on New Year’s Day.

The Dozier School operated from 1900 to 2011 as a reform school. It was notorious for beatings, rape, torture and more. His remains were found with along with the bodies of 80 others at a gravesite near the school.

About 300 former Dozier students formed an organization called the “White House Boys.”

They work to keep the legacy and stories of the victims alive. A few spoke at Jackson’s funeral. The family finally has some closure, but the pain remains.

10

Dr. James Huger dies – Dr. James “Jimmy’’ Huger died on Oct. 14 at the age of 101. Huger was the first Black to serve on both the Daytona Beach City Commission and Volusia County Council. He received the Congressional Medal of Honor for his service as a Montford Point Marine who desegregated the U.S. Marine Corps.

Huger was a lifetime member of the NAACP, a civil rights activist and longtime member of Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity Inc. He also worked for Dr. Mary McLeod Bethune at Bethune-Cookman. Hundreds paid tribute to him during a service held on Oct. 22 at Bethune-Cookman University.

Other stories of note McClairen retires from B-CU Jack “Cy’’ McClairen retired from Bethune-Cookman after 55 years with the institution as a student athlete, coach and administrator. At 85 years old, he last served as senior associate athletics director.

McClairen was a dominant athlete in football, basketball and track. He coached both the football and basketball programs.

His 300 wins as basketball coach is still a school record. He also helped build the school’s golf program. He is in the MEAC, SIAC and Florida Sports Hall of Fame.

Mattie Howard and Jacques Hodge die Legendary gospel deejay and promoter Mattie Howard died at the age of 73 back in April. Howard ran a longtime gospel radio program on WPUL AM 1590. She had a career spanning 30 years in radio. Retired educator James “Jacques” Hodge died in September. After moving to Holly Hill from South Orange Village, N.J., Hodge became and remained active in the Daytona Beach-Volusia County NAACP branch until he suffered a stroke.

Holly Hill Middle.

He has worked as assistant director of dormitory facilities at Bethune-Cookman University and an adjunct instructor in Education Leadership and Beginning Teaching at Daytona State College.

Music major Picott came to Daytona via Smithville, Virginia after receiving an academic and band scholarship to Bethune-Cookman. He re-

ceived his bachelor’s degree in music.

Picott received his master’s and doctorate in educational leadership from Nova Southeastern University.

At Bethune-Cookman, he was a member of the Marching Wildcats band.

He also played the trumpet and was section leader his last two years at the school.

He’s also a member of Omega Psi Phi Fraternity, Inc.

Education background Picott has an extensive resume in education.

He served as an assistant principal at both Campbell and Mainland High; principal intern at Ormond Middle, Ormond Elementary and Champion Elementary as well as assistant principal at Creekside Middle in Port Orange.

Picott also was a band director at Mainland and

Happy New Year!

From Herbert Thompson Funeral Home Family and Staff 901 Dr. Mary McLeod Bethune Blvd.

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3 7

M A YNEWS OR

DECEMBER 29, 2016 – JANUARY 4, 2017 COMMUNITY DECEMBER 14 - 20, 2006

Residents reflect on the reason for the season Prior to Christmas, a question was posed of Palm Coast and Ormond Beach residents about what they might expect to happen as a result of celebrating Jesus’ birthday. It is my hope that the peace of Christmas will quell the concerns of this nation for a wonderful New Year!

Living in anticipation of a joyous Christmas, the residents responded: “I am just happy that at least half my family is coming down for Christmas our younger daughter - and actually a lot of friends, who weren’t supposed to be coming down, are coming down,” said Clifton Daniels, “And so, we are having a Christmas dinner, and there will be a large group of family and friends.”

Clifton’s wife, the Rev. Cheryl Daniels responded, “I think that this year’s Christmas is making me think about my prayer life and praying for my enemies, praying for people that think differently from me - praying for people that

I know don’t like me, and that’s what we are called to do - And, Christmastime is bringing that to focus...”

“I’ve already had such a blessing,” said Betty White.

“When Kilus (her husband) went to the doctor on Thursday, the oncologist turned him loose. He’s six years’ cancer-free. So that was such a blessing.

(And) so, I’ve already been blessed,” White added.

“I am hopeful for God to lead and guide my children - and especially my grandchildren - to be closer to Him,” said Barbara Greene.

“That is one of the things that I’ve been continuously prayerful for. And, I am prayerful that my husband becomes more involved in church activities and in reading the Bible.”

“I want to be used more

by Jesus, to be stronger, to be a better servant,” said Jimmie Calhoun. And while quizzing Calhoun regarding his present status of being used by God, he replied, “I am, but (to be used) even more.”

Clifton and the Rev. Cheryl Daniels

PALM COAST COMMUNITY NEWS JEROLINE D. MCCARTHY

‘God is in control’ Questioning whether by celebrating Jesus’ birth will have an effect on the political arena, Calhoun an-

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E D U C A T I O N.

swered, “Well, one thing about that is no matter what the situation is, God is in control of everything.

For whatever reason God allows what He allows, and whatever it is, we have to go with it until He decides to change it.”

“That’s true,” said Evangelism Counselor Murna Hanson. “It might have some (effect) because some people just ignore (things), but it should have some effect.

“I just want to be a servant of Christ,” added Hanson, “for people to repent, for people who are unsaved. That’s my focus right now - and to be obedient to His Word!”

AACS to host New Year event

Ringing in New Year’s Day at the sensational African American Cultural Society (AACS) will provide exclusive access to a fellowship luncheon in a festive southern cuisine.

It starts Jan. 1, 2 p.m., at the cultural center, 4422 North U.S. Highway 1, Palm Coast. The $30 ticket price.

Get your tickets now from Sondra Henderson, 386-445-5009; Shirley Jacob, 386-597-5973, or Seconia Reid, 386-447-6098.

Recap of society’s accomplishments

Since this is the last leg of celebrating the African American Cultural Society’s 25th anniversary, I wanted to share some of the organization’s accomplishments since I was appointed the Historical Perspective chair for the anniversary.

The pomp and circumstance surrounding the anniversary were presented in October. Moreover, the years have brought several committees that today the AACS members have grown accustomed to seeing.

However, it’s noteworthy to recap that the organization’s 10th anniversary was celebrated Nov. 17, 2001, with keynote speaker Susan L. Taylor, then editorial director of Essence Magazine and special guest, the late Congresswoman Shirley Chisholm (D-NY).

The 15th anniversary brought keynote speaker Howard Dodson, then director of the Schomburg

PHOTOS BY JEROLINE D. MCCARTHY/DAYTONA TIMES

Jimmie Calhoun and Murna Hanson Center for Research in Black Culture.

Former U.N. Ambassador Andrew Young was the keynote speaker for the 20th anniversary.

Val Demings, former Orlando Police Chief and now the newly elected congresswoman for Florida’s 10th congressional district, was the keynote speaker for the 25th anniversary.

The African American Cultural Society’s Standing Committees are: African Studies, Amenities, Budget and Finance, Cultural, Membership, Nominating, Public Affairs, and Ways and Means.

The Ad Hoc Committees are: Adopt-a-Road, Education, Heritage Brick Walk, Omni, the former Paper Plane Committee; The Scribe Committee, 200 Club, and the Youth Black History Reality Committee.

The Special Projects Committees comprise: the Annual Cookout Committee, Awards Committee, Bylaws, Caller Committee, Holiday Gift-Giving, Elections, Travel, and the Corporate Sponsorship Committee.

The organization has had committees and activities involving: interior decorating, food handling, a chaplain’s corner, Cub and Boy Scouts, little league baseball, golf, cultural dinner presentations/symposiums, stage plays, a gospel show, Juneteenth, Kwanzaa, Kuumba, the Ashe’ Art Show, and the Jazz Breakfast.

Other committees and activities have provided for: the high school Ebony Societies, a historian, read-ins, internships, tutoring, scholarships, student computer/ book donations, AfricanAmerican history contests, a hip-hop show, research library and artifacts, a newsletter, website and Facebook page; interstate Welcoming Center pamphlets, tee shirts/souvenirs, trips/ tours/cruises, quilters, steel drum entertainment, parades, new members’ receptions, Leo birthday parties, golden years’ birthday parties, New Year’s Eve parties, New Year’s Day luncheons, and the black and

white balls.

The organization has enjoyed a mortgage-burning party, meritorious awards luncheons, lifetime memberships, charitable bequests, a maintenance reserve, candidate forums, its use as a polling place, accommodations for conferences/banquets/other rentals - and making way for a creative cookbook, genealogy awareness, game nights, sweepstakes, and 50/50 drawings.

The organization has engaged in relays for life, other community drives, Christmas tree lighting, exhibitions, the Home Show, inter-ethnic groups, and the Historical Society and its tours. AACS has benefitted from grants from the City of Palm Coast and funding from the Department of Justice, the State of Florida, and the Flagler County Tourism Council.

The organization enjoyed having a Chief Executive Officer, assistant office manager, Men of the AACS, a Cultural Center Curator, Cultural Center Administrators, a Kitchen Committee, and a Facility Events Booking Committee.

The chairs of the boards of directors have assembled around Lorenzo Jones, Robert Brooks, Jacqueline Browne, Elva Lee, James Sharpe Jr., James T. Lee, Evelyn Corbin, William Seeney, Richard Barnes, Vivian Richardson, and currently Edmund G. Pinto Jr. The AACS presidents have included Lorenzo Jones prior to incorporation, Clarence Mauge’, Lionel Holder, Walter Boone, Vivian Richardson, Vikki Taylor, Robert L. Gary Sr., Edmund G. Pinto Jr., Stephanie Ecklin, James Sharpe Jr., and currently Joseph Matthews.

The historical perspective is only a snippet, and again, we repeat a snippet of the AACS leadership and endeavors.

Respectfully submitted, The Historical Perspective Committee Jeroline D. McCarthy, Chair Lynda Baten, Anniversary Liaison Lionel Holder James Sharpe, Jr. Vikki Taylor Walter Boone Robert Brooks Donald Bryant Robert Whiting ••• As always, remember our prayers for the sick, afflicted and bereaved.

Celebrations Birthday wishes to Mary Lee, Dec. 29; John Foti, Dec. 30; Charlotte Prince, Vivian Rowe, Dec. 31; and the Rev. Annette Weaver, Jan. 1.

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7 EDITORIAL

DECEMBER 29, 2016 – JANUARY 4, 2017

This is a season of justice and righteousness Last week, the Electoral College met to cast their ballots for the new president after a bitterly contested election in a deeply polarized nation. Soon thereafter, the vast majority of Americans celebrated Christmas – literally the mass of Christ – marking the birth of Jesus.

Christmas is not simply a day for exchanging presents and cards. It is not simply a holiday; it is a holy day. Each year, I use this column to remind us of the real meaning of Christmas.

Jesus was born under occupation to a couple ordered to go far from home to register with authorities. The innkeeper told Joseph that there was no room at the inn. Jesus was born in a stable, lying in a manger, an “at-risk baby.”

‘King of kings’ He came at a time of great expectation among the poor and the oppressed. Prophets had predicted that a mighty Messiah would be born – a king of kings – to defeat the occupiers and free the people. They expected a powerful warrior, one who would lead them against Rome’s legions.

But Jesus rallied no army. Jesus was a liberator, but He was a Prince of Peace. He gathered disciples, not soldiers. He converted rather than conquered.

He accumulated no worldly wealth. He threw the moneylenders from the temple.

Present, not past We cannot speak of Jesus in

TRICEEDNEYWIRE.COM

the past tense. He is the Prince of Peace today. Peace, He showed us, is not the absence of noise; it is the presence of justice and righteousness.

We will be judged, He told us, by how we treat “the least of these,” by how we treat the stranger on the Jericho Road. He called on us to serve the poor, to care for the sick, to reach out to the refugee.

Secular observance Now, of course, Christmas has become a holiday, more secular than sacred. Too many of us stretch our budgets not to lift those in need, but to buy baubles for families and friends.

Christmas often means more debt until Easter. It has become a marketing scheme, a time of malls and sales, of come-ons and discounts. But we should not allow Jesus the Christ, the redeemer, the emancipator, to be displaced by Santa the Claus, and more debt and unaffordable things.

Let us use this season to reassess where we are. We are spending trillions in wars without end. Inequality has reached extremes not witnessed since the eve of the Great Depression.

We continue to lock up more

Let us move forward with faith I believe that it’s the inclination of humankind to cling to the surety of the “here and now,” despite any accompanying discomfort possibly experienced.

There’s little debate that the uncertainty of future outcomes holds many in the grip of inaction. That’s why so many are forced, “kicking and screaming,” into the future – both physically and emotionally.

Unfortunately for them, progress and the march of time require forward movement. As 2016 closes, this fact has never been more accurate for some!

Year-end thoughts Each year’s end, I’m compelled by habit to reflect on my blessings, achievements and disappointments. I remain blessed in good health. I have an amazing, loving mother. Her energy and stamina at 94 are still inspiring.

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

My siblings and I share love that’s been nurtured throughout our lives and continues to grow.

The generations who follow have been indoctrinated in that spirit by our words and deeds.

We enjoy a family bound in the spirit of love and mutuality that supersede possession or material gain.

I think fondly of friends who, on January 1, joined me on this journey we call LIFE. I grieve, but not too much, for those who left the journey during the year.

All of my friends – living or dead – have weaved their place in the tapestry of my life and leave me

Trump staffers target EPA, State for purge There have been several disturbing developments over the last several weeks that give us a clue to the approach of the incoming administration.

Donald Trump’s transition team asked the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) for the names of staffers involved in global climate negotiations.

(It did not appear that they were getting ready to offer them awards.)

On December 21, The Washington Post reported that the transition team was asking the State Department about grants it provides to global environmental groups.

With former Texas Governor

You don’t need to be a Christian to understand the relevance of the real Christmas story today. Jesus taught us the overwhelming power of faith, hope and charity, and the importance of love. He taught us that people of conscience can make a difference, even against the most powerful oppressor.

He showed leaders the power of summoning our better angels, rather than rousing our fears or our divisions.

REV. JESSE L. JACKSON, SR.

BILL FLETCHER, JR. NNPA COLUMNIST

Rick Perry as the nominee for Secretary of Energy and with Scott Pruitt the nominee to head up EPA, it is as clear as day that the incoming Trump administration seeks to take the country – if not the world – back about 50 years when it comes to addressing climate change and other environmental catastrophes currently unfolding.

The disingenuousness of

people than any nation in the world. On an average day, 27 people die from gun violence in the United States; in Canada and other Western nations, the aver-

a better person for it.

Inspiration counts Often without speaking, we have agreed to take the best from each other and incorporate it into our own lives for our collective benefit. Thus, we achieve our immortality by the good that we do and the inspiration we give to others to do more.

I’ve been blessed to be called to leadership in the National Congress of Black Women – one of our nation’s most progressive women’s organizations. I take great pride in our membership and their unyielding endeavors of growth and achievement.

With the objective to improve the quality of life for women and our families, our organization plays an increasingly significant role in communities of color.

Not all positive All of 2016 hasn’t been positive. Most noteworthy in the negative is the “election” of Donald Trump. Pragmatically and especially if measured from announced Cabinet nominations, the future seems grim.

If the best prediction of future

Key elements of the Republican Party have made it clear that they wish to overturn the 20th Century.

Trump and his allies when it comes to climate change is outstanding. Trump would like to play agnostic on whether climate change is unfolding and suggests that there is actually a debate in scientific circles regarding this matter. I hate to break it to the President-elect, but there is no more debate in scientific circles about the validity of climate change (and the human role in it) than there was about the connection between smoking and lung cancer.

It is worth noting that the long

VISUAL VIEWPOINT: TRUMP’S 2017 RESOLUTIONS

DAVE GRANLUND, POLITICALCARTOONS.COM

age is fewer than five per day.

Lost ground The good news is that since last year, unemployment is down, poverty is down and incomes have begun to rise. But we’ve lost ground this century, with more people and more children in poverty than in 2000.

There are 45 million Americans living in poverty, a number that would be far worse without Social Security (which lifts 26.5 million out of poverty), refundable income tax credits and SNAP, or food stamps. Last year, the life expectancy of Americans began to decline.

The rich, on the other hand, have more money and pocket a greater percentage of the nation’s income than ever. So why would an incoming administration focus on more tax cuts for the wealthy and more cuts in

conduct is past performance, then our nation’s most vulnerable appear to be at serious risk.

Trump has demonstrated himself to be an unprincipled narcissist willing to exploit and take advantage of any circumstance that will benefit Trump.

In the weeks leading to his inauguration, there have already been multiple accusations of impropriety. Notably, at the moment he takes the oath of office, he stands in violation of his lease for the property housing his new D.C. hotel. Whether plutocracy or kleptocracy, Trump’s election is predicted to bring a monumental shift in the political structure of this nation.

Thus far, Trump has nominated a Labor secretary who’s openly hostile to Labor. He’s nominated a Health and Human Services secretary who’s vehemently opposed to Obamacare and is an ally of the goal to privatize Social Security and Medicare. He’s nominated an Education secretary who’s committed to dismantling public education. Egregiously, he’s nominated an attorney general whose record of racism previously dis-

delay in getting recognition of the connection of smoking to lung cancer was directly related to the obstruction emanating from the tobacco industry.

Much the same is the case when it comes to climate change. The fossil fuel industry fronts supposed scientists to confuse the debate, despite the fact that they KNOW of the human connection to climate change.

Facts don’t matter The Trump administration appears to be prepared to throw science to the wind and reject facts, as Trump the candidate did throughout his presidential campaign. But what is worse is that it appears that they want to take action against those who have rung the bell about the danger of human-induced climate change. This would be the equivalent of the tobacco indus-

Charles W. Cherry II, Esq., Publisher

Opinions expressed on this editorial page are those of the writers, and do not necessarily reflect the editorial stance of the newspaper or the publisher.

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basic services for the poor and working people?

You don’t need to be a Christian to understand the relevance of the real Christmas story today. Jesus taught us the overwhelming power of faith, hope and charity, and the importance of love. He taught us that people of conscience can make a difference, even against the most powerful oppressor. He showed leaders the power of summoning our better angels, rather than rousing our fears or our divisions.

This Christmas, this surely is a message to remember. Merry Christmas, everybody.

The Rev. Jesse L. Jackson, Sr. is president and CEO of the Rainbow/PUSH Coalition. Click on this commentary at www.daytonatimes.com to write your own response.

qualified him from appointment as a federal judge.

Eyes won’t open From where I view the future, 2017 holds no prospect for political enlightenment or improving the prosperity of the masses who suffered under congressional Republican obstruction. I am only encouraged by my faith in God and the fact that WE have survived threats greater than or equal to those which face us now.

“I don’t feel no ways tired – come too far from where I started from. Nobody told me the road would be easy, but I don’t believe He brought me this far to leave me!”

Let us move forward with that faith.

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. try taking over what is now the Department of Health and Human Services at the height of the debate on the connection between smoking and lung cancer.

Key elements of the Republican Party have made it clear that they wish to overturn the 20th Century. In other words, they seek to reverse the myriad gains won throughout the last century and return us to the reality of the late 19th Century, with all that that involved.

We simply cannot let that happen. The fights we are about to engage with the new administration will decide everything.

Bill Fletcher, Jr. is a racial justice, labor and global justice activist and writer. Follow him on Twitter, Facebook and at www.billfletcherjr.com.

Click on this commentary at www.daytonatimes.com to write your own response.

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DECEMBER 29, 2016 – JANUARY 4, 2017

PERSONAL MFINANCE AYOR

DECEMBER 14 - 20, 2006

5 7

PHOTO COURTESY OF GETTY IMAGES

Face your financial fears FROM FAMILY FEATURES

Retirement is supposed to be a reward for decades of hard work, but if you haven’t planned well, the milestone may be a dark cloud on your horizon. In fact, new data shows that nearly 50 percent of Americans are most afraid of outliving their income or the inability to maintain their current lifestyle, and nearly 20 percent are worried about having enough money to cover health care expenses.

The research, released by the Indexed Annuity Leader­ ship Council (IALC), also found that despite these very real fears, Americans are failing to take action to address them. For example, a quarter of Baby Boomers, the age group closest to retirement, have less than $5,000 saved for retirement and nearly one in five Americans have no idea how much they’ve saved.

The findings indicate that Americans are afraid of the unknown when it comes to managing their money and retirement. While you can budget for leisure and travel, health care expenses and life expectancy are unpredict­ able.

“Americans are living longer than ever, so it’s no sur­ prise that the No. 1 retirement fear is that they’ll run out of money in their final years,” said Jim Poolman, execu­ tive director of the IALC. “Thankfully, there are strategies and products out there that can help you create sufficient retirement income to last throughout your lifetime, which can help with this crippling fear.”

To take control of the uncertainty and create peace of mind when it comes to retire­ ment, here are some simple steps UNDERSTANDING you can follow:

FIXED INDEXED ANNUITIES

In today’s economy, experts recommend ensuring you have a diversified retirement plan and balanced financial portfolio that includes conservative, low-risk products that are less impacted by stock market volatility.

According to the Indexed Annuity Leadership Council’s research, 45 percent of Americans are inter­ested in retirement products, such as Fixed Indexed Annuities, that offer steady lifetime income and protect your principal even if the stock market goes down.

Make a budget.

Those who plan for retirement are estimated to save three times more than those who don’t. Take into account that your expenses may in­ crease during re­ tirement, specifi­ cally for items such as health care and travel. Also, be sure to revisit your bud­ get periodically to make adjust­ments for new circum­ stances that affect how much you need to support the retirement life­ style you desire.

Balance is key

Investing in a 401(k) is a great way to start a re­ tirement port­folio, but putting all your eggs in one basket is a com­mon mistake. One method to provide balance to your retirement portfolio is to add some more conserva­ tive, low-risk products, such as Fixed Indexed Annuities (FIAs), which protect your principal regardless of mar­ ket ups and downs. According to the survey, FIAs are an attrac­tive choice for consumers, with 45 percent of Amer­ icans surveyed interested in this type of retirement prod­ uct.

Plan to adjust A savings strategy that makes sense today might not fit your needs in five, 10 or 20 years. Factors like market vol­ atility, changes in your career or personal life, can impact

the amount you’re able to save and how much you antici­ pate needing when you reach retirement age.

Monitor the balance While it’s not as critical to track the ups and downs of your portfolio in your younger years, the closer you are to retirement, the more important it becomes to be aware of your account values. Your level of risk should reflect your age and your retirement goals. Generally, the younger you are, the greater risk you may be able to tolerate be­ cause market cycles generally rebound losses over time.

When the window of time before retirement is tighter, you may not be able to recover from a dip as easily.

Small changes count Even seemingly little adjustments can have a notice­

able impact on your finances over time. For example, packing your own lunch and giving up an evening out with friends once weekly or monthly will allow you to di­ rect that money to a retirement account instead. Also, be sure to pay your credit card bills on time to avoid fees that not only affect your credit rating but deplete funds that could be directed to retirement savings.

Make it automatic Set up scheduled transfers so you don’t forget or aren’t tempted to spend the money you planned to save. Treat your retirement account as a debt you owe and be sure to pay yourself every month. If neces­sary, meet with a finan­ cial advisor who can help you deter­mine a strategy to pay down debt without sacrificing your retirement planning.

Find more tips and tools to guide your retirement planning at FIAinsights.org.

R6

7 CLASSIFIEDS

DECEMBER 29, 2016 – JANUARY 4, 2017

This is the watch Stephen Hollingshead, Jr. was wearing when he encountered a drunk driver.

Time of death 6:55pm.

Friends Don’t Let Friends Drive Drunk.

3.5"

HOW TO LIVE UNITED:

JOIN HANDS. OPEN YOUR HEART. Photo by Michael Mazzeo

LEND YOUR MUSCLE. FIND YOUR VOICE.

GIVE 10%. GIVE 100%. GIVE 110%.

GIVE AN HOUR. GIVE A SATURDAY.

THINK OF WE BEFORE ME.

REACH OUT A HAND TO ONE AND INFLUENCE THE CONDITION OF ALL.

GIVE. ADVOCATE. VOLUNTEER.

LIVE UNITED

™

Want to make a difference? Help create opportunities for everyone in your community. United Way is creating real, lasting change where you live, by focusing on the building blocks of a better life– education, income and health. That’s what it means to Live United. For more, visit LIVEUNITED.ORG.

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YO U DON T H AV E T O BE SO STRONG BUT IF I’M NOT, WHO WILL?

Being a caregiver takes a special kind of commitment.

We know your strength is super, but you’re still human.

F I N D S U P P O R T F O R Y O U R S T R E N G T H.

A A R P. O R G / C A R E G I V I N G 1 - 8 7 7 - 3 3 3 - 5 8 8 5

7

M ASPORTS YOR

DECEMBER 29,DECEMBER 2016 – JANUARY 4, 2017 14 - 20, 2006

en said. “They’re good. I mean, they’re really, really good. And they’ve been good for a long time. Just impressive.”

A little history Let’s examine that resume.

The Crimson Tide has made the most bowl appearances in big-time college football with 64.

They’ve won 30 conference titles.

And they’ve had 11 undefeated seasons.

Alabama has won 16 national championships, including four (2009, ’11, ’12 and ’15) in the last seven years.

This year’s team features a half dozen All-Americans and six players (defensive end Jonathan Allen, linebacker Reuben Foster, offensive tackle Cam Robinson, cornerback Marion Humphrey, linebacker Tim Williams and tight end O.J. Howard) projected to be taken n the first round of next year’s NFL draft.

In 13 games, eight against ranked opponents, the Crimson Tide (13-0) scored at least 30 points 12 times and held opponents to 10 points or fewer on eight occasions. They didn’t allow an offensive TD in November during a four-game stretch.

The strength of Alabama is its vaunted front seven and a defense that’s scored 10 touchdowns.

HYOSUB SHIN/ATLANTA JOURNAL-CONSTITUTION/TNS

Alabama head coach Nick Saban and players celebrate a 54-16 win against Florida in the Southeastern Conference championship game at the Georgia Dome in Atlanta on Dec. 3.

Washington facing what could be greatest team ever Alabama has won 16 national championships, including four (2009, 2011, 2012 and 2015) in the last seven years.

Quarterback the key Mississippi was the last team to beat Alabama — 43-37 — on Sept. 19, 2015.

The key to beating the Tide is having a dynamic quarterback, Rebels coach Hugh Freeze said in an interview with Yahoo! Sports.

Alabama vs. Washington on Dec. 31 at 3 p.m. in the Georgia Dome in Atlanta. The game will air on ESPN.

“Alabama has a great defense,” said Browning, who completed 9 of 24 passes in his last outing, a 41-10 win over Colorado in the Pac-12 championship game.

“Obviously, very talented. Obviously, won a lot of awards all over the place for a lot of their players.

“They’ve got a lot of All-Americans, highly recruited guys too.

So for me, it’s an opportunity to go against what I think is some of the best players and one of the best teams that has kind of ran college football for a while. So, you know, it’s a great opportunity and looking forward to it.”

BY PERCY ALLEN SEATTLE TIMES/TNS

No. 1 Alabama hasn’t lost in so long — the Crimson Tide has won 25 in a row — that the thought of being upset by No. 4 Washington in the College Football Playoff semifinal at the Peach Bowl in Atlanta is inconceivable to those around the program.

“It would be like a natural disaster,” said Ryan Fowler, who hosts a sports-talk show for 102.9 ESPN in Tuscaloosa, Ala. “If Alabama loses Saturday, it would turn that state upside down. I’d be hosting a funeral for the next six to seven weeks.

“That’s a good question, and of course anything is possible. How would folks here feel if Alabama loses? Shock. Disbelief. … I don’t think ‘Bama fans have really considered it because it hasn’t happened in so long.”

PEACH BOWL

‘Just impressive’

LINDSEY WASSON/SEATTLE TIMES/TNS

Washington State running back Jamal Morrow (25) runs in a 1-yard touchdown in the second quarter against Washington in the 109th Apple Cup at Martin Stadium in Pullman, Wash., on Nov. 25. Washington won, 45-17.

“Even to have a chance, you have to have a good quarterback,” said Freeze, who saw Ole Miss quarterback Chad Kelly torch Alabama for 341 yards, three touchdowns and no interceptions in the 2015 win. “I don’t believe you can beat them without that guy. If you don’t have that guy, you might oughta just not show up.”

The best players The Huskies have a good quarterback in sophomore Jake Browning, who has thrown for 3,280 yards and a school-record 42 touchdowns against just seven interceptions.

However, Browning struggled during a 26-13 loss to USC when he was intercepted twice and sacked three times.

Alabama has to deal with Washington on the field, but the Crimson Tide is also playing against history.

It’s not often when the computer geeks and football fanatics align in agreement. But the 2016 Alabama team is universally considered among the best to ever play college football.

The website FiveThirtyEight. com ranked the Crimson Tide the No. 1 team over the past 80 years using an adapted ELO power rating, a formula originally created to grade chess players.

To remain ahead of the 1995 Nebraska and 2015 Alabama teams, the Crimson Tide would need to finish the season with a second straight national title.

“Their resume speaks for itself,” UW coach Chris Peters-

A rebuilding year for Mainland’s Buccaneers

BY ANDREAS BUTLER DAYTONA TIMES

While local girls basketball teams like New Smyrna, Spruce Creek, Atlantic and Father Lopez receive all the hype, not many have been looking at Mainland.

The Buccaneers are off to a 6-5 start as of Dec. 28. Earlier that day, they rallied to beat Winter Park Lake Howell 48-45 in the Father Lopez Holiday Tournament at Father Lopez Catholic High School in Daytona Beach.

“We trailed the entire game and pulled it out in the end,” said Mainland High School Head Coach Arthur Westbrook.

Last season, the Buccaneers won 20 games, finished district runner-up and went to the playoffs.

Goals: Wins, college Entering this season Mainland lost five starters including star guard Michella Green from a year ago.

“We’re definitely rebuilding.

We lost the top five from a year ago that we really depended up-

Working hard This year’s leading scorer D’Zhariya Hawkins is a junior guard who transferred from Jones High in Orlando. Hawkins is averaging 14 points per game.

Westbrook likes what sees in her.

“She is very athletic and she gives her all every time. She has a quiet personality but I think

Meanwhile, freshman Jalen Hurts (2,592 passing yards, 841 rushing yards and 40 total touchdowns) is arguably the most talented quarterback Alabama has had during its recent title run.

Hurts is one of three Crimson Tide players who have rushed for more than 500 yards, along with running backs Damien Harris (986), Josh Jacobs (548) and Bo Scarbrough (539).

“Probably the best college team I’ve seen,” Petersen said.

“I mean, these are some — top to bottom, there’s no weaknesses out there. There’s no players, like, ‘Well, he’s a freshman …’ If he’s a freshman, he’s a freshman All-American (and) a whateverstar recruit.

“They’re good.

They’re coached well. And the thing that I’m as impressed with (as) anything in that program is how they recruit. They get great talent, and then he does a great job with the culture of their program — playing hard and all those things.

There’s no weaknesses, you know.”

Saban’s success At the center of it all is coach Nick Saban, who has compiled a 118-18 record in 10 seasons at Alabama.

He has won four national titles with the Crimson Tide and one at rival LSU. Another championship would put him on equal footing with legendary ‘Bama coach Paul “Bear” Bryant.

Some believe Saban — like the 2016 Crimson Tide — would go down as the best ever if he claims a CFP national-championship trophy Jan. 9 in Tampa.

“In my mind, Saban is the best there ever was because of the way he’s adapted over the years and the success he’s had even though college football has changed so much,” Fowler said.

“Last year’s team was district-runner up and went to the playoffs.

This year’s team is going to have to work harder to get there.’’

HIGH SCHOOL SPORTS ROUNDUP on. This year’s squad just continues to work hard. It’s not always about winning and losing.

I just ask the girls to give me 100 percent effort at all times,” Westbrook said.

Westbrook has been the school’s coach for the past four years and has one playoffs appearance, which came last year.

“It’s not just about winning basketball games. We want to win but the other goal is getting the girls to college. I’m trying to help all my players get to college,” said Westbrook.

How Hurts helps

Arthur Westbrook

Mainland High girls basketball coach

The coach of the Mainland High girls said a primary goal is to get the members of the team into college. that as she gets to know the team and myself that she will open up more to us,” said Westbrook.

Hawkins is still transitioning but she seems to be handling the load as team leader and go-toplayer.

She said, “At my old school I didn’t have to work as hard. Now I must work hard at all times on both ends of the floor rather scoring or defending. I think I perform well under pressure. I don’t panic I just try to play and keep my teammates involved.”

The Buccaneers also depend

upon junior guard Leeann Kent as well as three seniors in forwards Jasmine Hadley and Tahara Williams along with guard Elainna Jones.

‘We don’t quit’ Westbrook still likes what he sees in this year’s squad.

He said, “I like the effort. We are still trying to figure each other out. We’re still working on team chemistry. Last year’s team was more like family because those girls had all played together before. This year’s team is starting

to come along together.”

Added Hawkins, “We always work hard. No matter the score.

We don’t quit. We just keep going.’’

With the district tournament just over a month away, probably no one sees the Bucs as contenders except for themselves.

“We can come together and make a run and possibly shock some people. We talk about it every day. Each year, the team wants to be better than the year before. Last year’s team was district-runner up and went to the playoffs. This year’s team is going to have to work harder to get there,” commented Westbrook.

Hawkins agrees, “We just have to keep getting better on both ends of the floor and keep working hard.”

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7DECEMBER 29, 2016 – JANUARY 4, 2017