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CELEBRATING OUR 10TH YEAR STATEWIDE!
Remembering ‘our hero’ George E. Curry See Page B1 www.flcourier.com
SEPTEMBER 2 – SEPTEMBER 8, 2016
VOLUME 24 NO. 36
WINNERS, LOSERS Here’s a quick summary of Tuesday’s election results involving Black candidates from around the state.
COMPILED FROM WIRE AND STAFF REPORTS
Pam Keith
Corrine Brown
Al Lawson
Federal offices Attorney Pam Keith, a firsttime statewide candidate who was ignored by the state and national Democratic Party establishment, exceeded all expectations by drawing 15.4 percent of the vote in the U.S. Senate primary. Current Democratic Congressman Patrick Murphy won the primary with almost 60 percent of the vote, with fellow Congressman Alan Grayson getting 17.7 percent.
Chris Smith
As part of President Obama’s commitment to commute – reduce the severity of punishment – of people sentenced to long prison terms for non-violent drugrelated crimes, on Tuesday the White House released a list of 111 people whose prison sentences were commuted. Fifteen were Floridians, as follows: • Alfonso Allen, Miami, convicted of conspiracy to distribute cocaine and other crimes; sentence of life plus 10 years commuted to 360 months’ imprisonment. • Ronald Owen Bilbrey, Jr., Winter Haven, convicted of conspiracy to traffic in controlled substances and other crimes; sentence of 360 months’ imprisonment commuted to expire on Dec. 28, 2016. • Brad Bradley Bradford, Tampa, convicted of possession with intent to distribute cocaine; sentence of 180 months’ imprisonment commuted to expire on Aug. 30, 2018, conditioned upon enrollment in residential drug treatment. • Roosevelt Brockington, Fort Lauderdale, convicted of distribution of cocaine, sentence of 262 months’ imprisonment commuted to188 months. • Bobby Richard Cotton, Jr., Tampa, convicted of conspiracy to distribute cocaine, sentence of 262 months’ imprisonment commuted to expire on Dec. 28, 2016. • Aubrey Jermaine Cummings, Miami, convicted of conspiracy to distribute cocaine, sentence of life imprisonment commuted to expire on Dec. 28, 2016. • William R. Downs, Daytona Beach, convicted of conspir-
MJ’s birthday and election results
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The Final Call shares images from protests, service in Ferguson See Page B1
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VOLUME 22 NO. 35
AUGUST 29 – SEPTEMBER 4, 2014
IT’S ON
Republican Rick Scott and Democrat Charlie Crist easily knocked off their respective competitors Tuesday night and now the gloves really come off in the battle of the governors. The race between Scott and his predecessor Crist is already one of the nation’s most-watched, and expensive, campaign throw-downs. Crist was elected in 2006 as a Republican governor and served a single term before
losing a 2010 bid for the U.S. Senate as an independent to Marco Rubio. Crist, who defeated former lawmaker Nan Rich on Tuesday, registered as a Democrat less than two years ago. “On to November. It’s us against Rick Scott – and for the people of Florida, we’re going to win. Are you in?” Crist posted on Twitter shortly before addressing supporters in Fort Lauderdale Tuesday night. After taking the See ELECTION, Page A2
CHARLES TRAINOR JR./MIAMI HERALD/MCT; HECTOR GABINO/EL NUEVO HERALD/MCT
Gov. Rick Scott and First Lady Ann Scott stopped by his campaign headquarters in Miami on Tuesday, while Charlie Crist hugged his running mate Annette Taddeo-Goldstein in Fort Lauderdale.
Laid to rest
MICHAEL JOSEPH JACKSON / 1958-2009
Police stand down in funeral aftermath
Happy birthday, MJ!
FROM WIRE AND STAFF REPORTS
After more than two weeks of protests over the killing of 18-year Michael Brown Jr., peace is being restored in Ferguson, Mo. Police made that announcement on Wednesday and said they were scaling back their presence. Missouri State Highway Patrol Capt. Ron Johnson said that troopers and St. Louis County police have dismantled their command center on West Florissant Avenue, which was the site of numerous nighttime protests in the suburb of St. Louis. The announcement came two days after Lesley McSpadden and Michael Brown, Sr. buried their 18-year-old son Michael Jr., who was shot and killed on Aug. 9 by Darren Wilson, 28, a White Ferguson police officer. A grand jury is considering whether to indict Wilson in connection with the shooting. “Peace could not have been achieved without this community coming together,” Johnson said in a televised news conference on Wednesday.
Police defend methods Johnson noted that protests in recent days have been peaceful with few arrests. Police made scores of arrests during the last two weeks along West Florissant, investigating five shootings, Johnson said, noting that the shootings did not involve protesters. Many of those arrested came from outside the area, but Johnson said “it would be unfair to say all the people who visited our state were a problem.” Some outsiders, he said, turned out to be peacemakers. Johnson emphasized, “not a single bullet was fired by police.” See FERGUSON, Page A2
Florida justice opines on Ferguson BY ASHLEY THOMAS FLORIDA COURIER
See OBAMA, Page A2
SNAPSHOTS FLORIDA | A3
Voters give OK to solar amendment
Michael Jackson, shown here doing promotional activities for his last tour, “This Is It,” would have turned 56 years old on Friday Aug. 29, had he lived.
SNAPSHOTS FLORIDA | A3
1 in 5 Central Florida homes need help with groceries
Judge gets reprimand for being too mean
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The fight for the governor’s mansion is expected to be the nastiest and most expensive political race in recent Florida history. It officially began on Tuesday. COMPILED FROM WIRE REPORTS
ALSO INSIDE
NATION | A6
Law makes it easier for vets to receive financal help for college
ENTERTAINMENT | B5
Essence Festival to continue in New Orleans through 2019
DAYTONA BEACH – Florida Supreme Court Justice James E. C. Perry spoke to a group of students and faculty at the Civic Engagement Center on the campus of Bethune-Cookman University on Monday and addressed the events in Ferguson, Mo. “Don’t be afraid to pursue the truth,” he told BCU students. “Have the will to never compromise what you know to be true.” Perry spoke on a number of topics, concluding that it’s important to be represented by people who make a difference and support “your issues” while in offices. “Voting effects everything,” Perry told the young people. “Politics are local; all politics are local. In Ferguson, only 12 percent of the registered Blacks vote. Twelve percent,” he said, clarifying that he was not referring to 12 percent of all Blacks, but 12 percent of those who are registered voters. “Voting determines who is the mayor, who makes the decisions, who makes the rules. It is a sacred responsibility. You can’t wait for your ship to come in at the airport. See JUSTICE, Page A2
COMMENTARY: CHARLES W. CHERRY II: RANDOM THOUGHTS OF A FREE BLACK MIND | A4 COMMENTARY: DR. JULIANNE MALVEAUX: NOT JUST POLICE BRUTALITY, POLICE MENTALITY | A5
CULTURE | B2
Group introducing sisters to cigars
ALSO INSIDE
State Senate, House Despite being under federal indictment, state Rep. Reggie Fullwood was one of nine state House incumbents who successfully turned back primary challengers Tuesday. See ELECTION, Page A2
Sharpton eulogizes Black journalist George E. Curry EE
BY THE FLORIDA COURIER STAFF
will go back to Congress. Val Demings, a former Orlando police chief viewed as a rising star by Democrats, easily won a primary in a revamped District 10. Demings captured more than 57 percent of the vote. She will face Republican Thuy Lowe in November.
‘Keep telling the story’
FLORIDA COURIER / 10TH STATEWIDE ANNIVERSARY
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Obama commutes the prison sentences of 15 Floridians
U.S. Rep. Corrine Brown won’t return to Washington after being defeated by Democratic challenger Al Lawson, ending the Jacksonville lawmaker’s more than two decades in Congress. Brown, who is under federal indictment, was Florida’s only incumbent member of Congress – from either party – to lose Tuesday evening, based on preliminary election results. U.S. Rep. Frederica Wilson is headed back to Washington after easily winning a Democratic match-up Tuesday night in South Florida’s Congressional District 24. No other candidates sought the seat, meaning Wilson
Two years ago, the Florida Courier recognized Michael Jackson’s birthday (Aug. 29) and previewed the 2014 gubernatorial race between Rick Scott and Charlie Crist.
BY HAZEL TRICE EDNEY TRICE EDNEY NEWS WIRE
TUSCALOOSA, ALA. – One minute the congregation was somber and in tears; the next minute they were rocking to choir music; the next minute they were laughing in fond memory; and then they were shouting and applauding on their feet. That was the range of emotions that marked the packed house during the “Celebration George E. of Life” for legendary Curry journalist George E. Curry at Weeping Mary Baptist Church in Tuscaloosa, Ala., on Aug. 27. The Rev. Al Sharpton gave a eulogy of the Black press journalist, columnist, commentator and editor that soared from a touching and sometimes humorous tribute to a fiery sermon that shook the sanctuary. Sharpton’s message pointed largely to how Black journalists and media owners must now escalate their voices as they continue “telling the story.” “There were many Black writers that have gone mainstream. But George Curry made mainstream go Black,” said Sharpton to applause. “He was smart enough to play the game and stay in certain newsrooms. But he chose not to do that because he chose the path of why the Black Press started in the first place.” Sharpton was alluding to the first Black Press editorial, published in the 1827 inaugural edition of Freedom’s Journal newspaper. That editorial stated, “We wish to plead our own cause. For too long have others spoken for us.”
Outstanding career Curry, who died of heart failure Aug. 20, started his career at Sports Illustrated, the St. Louis Post-Dispatch and the Chicago Tribune. But he found his calling in the Black Press. He was editor-in-chief of his beloved Emerge Magazine for seven years until it went defunct. Then he became editor-in-chief of the National Newspaper Publishers Association (NNPA) News Service of “the Black Press of America.” When he died, he had founded Emergenewsonline.com, a digital version of the hard copy magazine, which he never gave up hope to revive. Curry’s fiancée, Elizabeth “Ann” Ragland, looked on from the audience. Earlier, she spoke about how much Curry loved his family, especially his mother Mrs. Martha Brownlee, and reflected on his contagious sense of humor. Recalling Curry’s final moments, See CURRY, Page A2
COMMENTARY: MARC MORIAL: HILLARY CLINTON STANDS ON SHIRLEY CHISHOLM’S SHOULDERS | A4 COMMENTARY: CLARENCE V. MCKEE: WHY AFRICAN-AMERICANS SHOULD VOTE FOR TRUMP | A5
FOCUS
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SEPTEMBER 2 – SEPTEMBER 8, 2016
Homie the Black political clown African-Americans can’t wait to get to the polls to cast their ballots in the 2016 United States elections. One presidential candidate is “Heckle.” The other one is “Jeckle.” One candidate is Tweedlee Dee.” The other one is “Tweedlee Dum.” It doesn’t matter who is running for the nation’s highest office; most Black voters will do as they are told. They will be given a list, or slate, and instructed to vote for candidates that political exploiters want them to vote for!
It’s the truth Call me a hater if you want. But if you hate the truth, I don’t give a damn! First of all, you have a constitutional right to vote for whomever you want. Yes, you should exercise that right. But I pray that you will vote smart. I pray that you will put your voter support behind candidates that support you, stand up
LUCIUS GANTT THE GANTT REPORT
for you, speak out for you, be accessible to you, listen to you, be responsive to you and care about you! And don’t give me any crap about voting for the “Black” candidates! Who are the candidates that look like you that will fight for the governmental policies and programs that you want?
You tell me When Congresspersons, legislators, commissioners and councilmen vote to appropriate, or divide up, tax dollars to special interest groups, corporate cronies, favored ethnic groups, desired sex and gender groups, who are the Black elected officials that will say, “There are more Black
people that are suffering, and more Black communities struggling, than anybody else. Why does government give Black people, Black businesses, Black schools and other Black institutions the least government money?” I know you don’t like for me to write like this, but it is true!
Dummies and puppets You think you are going to the polls to vote for strong Black men and women. But in many cases, you are stepping into the voting booth to cast ballots for dummies and puppets! You’re not voting for the best representation that we can get. You are voting for Negroes who are willing to be controlled by the Democratic or Republican parties! The Democratic Party, for instance, is Willie Tyler, and you are voting for Lester. The Republican Party is Buffalo Bob, and you’re voting for Howdy Doody! You think The Gantt Report is crazy? Prove it! Who is running for office in 2016 that will represent you today like Black people were represented in the past by Adam Clayton Powell, or Maynard Jackson, or Shirley Chisholm, or Harold
Washington, or even Florida’s Carrie Meek or Betty Holzendorf? I knew Meek and Holzendorf. The candidates of today are not them.
Saying it again I’ve written it a thousand times. But if you forgot it, let me repeat it. If Black political candidates believe that Black businesses are inferior, Black people are unimportant, Black issues are OK to ignore during the political campaign, they will feel the same way after you elect them! A Black guy running for a seat in the Florida Legislature called me and asked me to give him some money for his campaign. I asked him to name the Black vendors, political professionals and Black-owned media outlets he would spend money with. He told me ALL Black people working on his campaign would be volunteers so he could save his money for White media, White consultants and White vendors. I hung up the phone on his pitiful ass!
Control our own Any Black voter or Black citi-
No ‘cheap way out’
CHARLES W. CHERRY II / FLORIDA COURIER
Mrs. Martha Brownlee, George Curry’s mother, is escorted away from his gravesite.
CURRY from A1
she said, “On last Saturday, my voice was the last person that George heard as I tried to keep him here with us. But there was a voice much stronger than mine, a voice…that even George Curry could not say no to…That voice is going to speak to us all.”
‘We need it now’ Dozens of Black publishers,
writers, photographers, former interns and mentees, mostly from NNPA, took up the first two pews of the church. The sanctuary was also packed with hundreds of people, including his family and Tuscaloosa residents who came to say farewell to their hometown hero. “George Curry left us in a critical time in history,” Sharpton said. “In five months will be the first time in American history that we will see a White succeed a Black president. We’ve never been here before…which means those of us who write the
story are going to have to follow a script that’s never been written before. If we ever needed a strong independent, but ethical Black Press, we’re going to need it now,” he said. Reflecting on his friendship with Curry, who appeared on the last hour of his daily radio show every Friday – including the day before he died – Sharpton said, “George never knew that he was much more of a minister to me than I was to him.” Still, Curry held even his political and civil rights friends accountable.
ELECTION from A1
Fullwood, a Jacksonville Democrat who is facing an October trial on wirefraud and tax-related charges stemming from the alleged misuse of campaign funds, had about 45.3 percent of the vote. In the November general election, he will face Republican Mark Griffin, who won the GOP primary for the seat. In the Orlando area, Rep. Bruce Antone beat Sheena Meade in House District 46, winning more than 60 percent of the vote. In South Florida, Barbara Watson of Miami Gardens easily won and faces a Republican challenger in November. A contentious Tampa Bay Senate race appears headed for a recount after state Rep. Darryl Rouson held a 76-vote edge over Rep. Ed Narain. Rouson and Narain battled in Tuesday’s Democratic primary against Augie Ribeiro, a trial lawyer who spent more than $500,000 of his own money in the race, and former state Rep. Betty Reed, as they sought to replace termlimited Senate Minority Leader Arthenia Joyner. The winner of the primary will be a heavy favorite in the November election in the Democratic-leaning district. Sean Shaw, a former state insurance consumer advocate and son of the late Supreme Court Justice Leander Shaw, had a narrow win in a three-way race in House District 61 in Tampa. Sen. Dwight Bullard, D-Miami, won a fierce Democratic primary and will face Rep. Frank Artiles, R-Miami, in November. Miami Democrat Roy Hardemon is
CAROLINA HIDALGO/TAMPA BAY TIMES/MCT
In this 2012 file photo, a poll worker gets “I Voted” stickers ready to hand to voters at ballot booths in South Tampa. headed to the Florida House after winning a splintered seven-candidate primary Tuesday to replace outgoing Rep. Daphne Campbell, D-Miami. Only Democrats ran for the seat, meaning that the primary determined the winner. Campbell won the Democratic primary for a Miami-Dade Senate seat, defeating five opponents in the Democratic-leaning District 38, including attorney Jason Pizzo who spent $770,000 of his own money on the contest. Democrats Patricia Hawkins-Williams and Barrington Russell won Broward County state House seats. Only Democrats ran in House Districts 92 and 95, so the primaries determined the winners of the seats. Ocoee Democrat Kamia Brown easily won an Orange County state House seat, collecting about 35 percent of the vote in a five-way Democratic primary in House District 45. The primary win gave Brown the seat because no other candidates ran to replace Rep. Randolph Bracy, an Orlando Democrat
“He never let his friendship interfere with his journalism. He would write against us and praise us the next week if we earned it,” Sharpton said. “…(T) he ones that really respect you are the ones that respect you enough to correct you because they don’t give you a cheap way out. And that’s what George would do.” Sharpton said it was Curry’s courage that marked his unique style of reporting and column writing. “Progress has never been as a result of people who didn’t take risks. George knew he wasn’t going to benefit by telling Kemba’s story. He knew he’d lose advertisers. He knew he wouldn’t be on “Face the Nation” if he put a handkerchief on Clarence Thomas’ head.” The audience applauded vigorously at the recognition of both the Kemba Smith and Clarence Thomas stories, which appeared on the cover of Emerge. Smith, who called Curry her “hero”, was among the speakers, which also included journalists Ed Gordon and Roland Martin. NNPA President/CEO Dr. Benjamin Chavis and SCLC President/CEO Dr. Charles Steele also spoke. A childhood friend and Tuscaloosa native, Steele also presided at the funeral and the memorial service the night before, where the keynote speaker was the Rev. Jesse Jackson.
‘Finished my course’ Sharpton preached from II Timothy 4:6-7, 11-13 when Paul, knowing his death was near, said, “I have fought a good fight,
who won a Senate race Tuesday. Bracy bettered Chuck O’Neal of Apopka, Bob Sindler of Apopka and former Rep. Gary Siplin of Orlando in Senate District 11. Democratic Reps. Bobby Powell of West Palm Beach easily defeated Michael Steinger, a trial lawyer from Palm Beach Gardens who sank $665,000 of his own money into the campaign. Powell now faces Republican Ron Berman, a co-founder of the company that became Quicken Loans, in Senate District 30. Other former House members didn’t fare as well on Tuesday. Former Reps. Don Gaffney and Terry Fields, both Jacksonville Democrats, lost primary bids.
Local elections Term-limited state Rep. Alan Williams, a Tallahassee Democrat, came up short Tuesday in his bid for Leon County supervisor of elections. But since it is a nonpartisan post, Williams qualified for a general-election runoff in November by getting 39 percent of the vote. He will face Mark Earley, who had 49.2 percent of the vote, just short of the 50 percent threshold to avoid a runoff. In Miami-Dade County, former Rep. Yolly Roberson, a Miami Democrat who was the first Haitian-American woman elected to the Legislature, came up short in her bid for a circuit judgeship. Roberson, a lawyer, left the Legislature in 2010. Term-limited state Sen. Chris Smith, a Fort Lauderdale Democrat who was once being considered for a gubernatorial run, lost by less than 400 votes in his Broward commission bid.
News Service reporter Brandon Larrabee contributed to this report.
zen that would give their support to any candidate, Black or White, that thinks all Blacks are worthless is not only a political fool. They are a traitor to their race! Black people have to control the politics in Black communities, Black districts and in Black precincts. When political parties control Black candidates and tell them what to do, what to say, what to vote for and who they should hire, the Black voters and the Black people will continue to be exploited and oppressed. If you are interested in politics, start grooming our young people. Teach Black youth how to campaign and generate votes. Teach Black boys and girls how to be strong, proud and politically intelligent Black men and women. The only Black political clown I’ll support is Homie the Clown because if Homie ran for office, Homie wouldn’t play that “I want to be controlled” stuff!
Buy Gantt’s latest book, “Beast Too: Dead Man Writing,” on Amazon.com and from bookstores everywhere. “Like” The Gantt Report page on Facebook. Contact Lucius at www. allworldconsultants.net.
I have finished my course, I have kept the faith!” But then, Sharpton preached, Paul told Timothy to bring certain things to the jail. “Bring my books and bring my papers because I did what the rest of the Apostles didn’t do. I wrote the story. And the story would be distorted unless we that lived the story, wrote the story!” Sharpton preached. He admonished Black journalists and publishers, “Keep telling the story…George never stopped. Until the very end, he never backed up and he never compromised. And he never negotiated his dignity for a contract or for a favor. That’s why when we say ‘so long’, we’ve lost something that we’ll never see that way again. George Curry was part of a long tradition. But he was one of a kind.’”
‘We Shall Overcome’ Mrs. Martha Brownlee, Curry’s beloved mother, who had wept in mourning for her only son as she visited the casket, ended the service dancing in his honor as Sharpton preached and the organ punctuated his message. “I come to Tuscaloosa to tell you that George won’t be laying in the cemetery. George has got to go through the cemetery. But George is on his way home now. He fought a good fight! He kept the faith! He finished his course!” As a final reflection and recognition of the continued struggle at hand, the congregation locked arms and sang the civil rights anthem, “We Shall Overcome.”
OBAMA from A1
acy to possess cocaine with intent to distribute, sentence of 260 months’ imprisonment commuted to expire on Dec. 28, 2016. • Darryl Ellis, Fort Pierce, convicted of conspiracy to possess cocaine with intent to distribute, sentence of life imprisonment commuted to expire on Dec. 28, 2016. • Ronnie Lorenzo Hardy, Chipley, convicted of conspiracy to possess cocaine and other crimes, sentence of life plus 60 months’ imprisonment commuted to a term of 270 months. • Isaac Simmons Johnson, Macclenny, convicted of possession of cocaine with intent to distribute, sentence of 360 months’ imprisonment commuted to expire on Dec. 28, 2016. • Walter Johnson, Tampa, convicted of conspiracy to possess cocaine with intent to distribute, sentence of 360 months’ imprisonment commuted to expire on Dec. 28, 2016. • Gregory Augusta Ransom, II, Panama
City, convicted of conspiracy to distribute cocaine, sentence of 240 months’ imprisonment commuted to expire on Aug. 30, 2018, conditioned upon enrollment in residential drug treatment. • Uriah Alfred Rose, Miami, convicted of possession of crack cocaine; sentence of 188 months’ imprisonment commuted to expire on Aug. 30, 2018, conditioned upon enrollment in residential drug treatment. • George E. Smith, Riviera Beach, convicted of distributing cocaine within 1,000 feet of a school, sentence of 235 months’ imprisonment commuted to expire on Dec. 28, 2016. • Timothy L. Tyler, St. Petersburg, convicted of possession of LSD, sentence of life imprisonment commuted to expire on Aug. 30, 2018, conditioned upon enrollment in residential drug treatment. To date, President Obama has granted 673 commutations, with 325 people in the month of August 2016 alone. More than onethird of the president’s commutation recipients were serving life sentences.
SEPTEMBER 2 – SEPTEMBER 8, 2016
FLORIDA
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Voters approve solar tax break for businesses BY JIM TURNER THE NEWS SERVICE OF FLORIDA
TALLAHASSEE – Primary-election voters Tuesday approved the expansion of a renewable-energy tax break that backers say will help businesses and spark the expanded use of solar energy in Florida. But while the measure had support from an array of groups, they are divided on an unrelated solar amendment on the November general-election ballot that could lead to a major political fight. The proposed constitutional amendment approved Tuesday was known as Amendment 4 and was placed on the ballot by the Legislature. It is designed to extend a residential renewable-energy tax break to commercial and industrial properties.
Strong support Shortly after the polls closed, the measure was more than 10 percentage points above the required 60 percent threshold needed for approval of constitutional amendments. The preliminary results indicated that the measure, which backers say will spur growth in solar and renewable energy, was supported in almost every county. “The strong showing of support for Amendment 4 sends a clear message to elected officials at all levels of government that Florida voters want more diversity in our energy market,” said Sen. Jeff Brandes, a St. Petersburg Republican who sponsored the proposal during the 2016 legislative session.
‘A new era’ Though approved by voters, the measure still needs the Legislature to enact the changes. The measure – sponsored in the House by Rep. Ray Rodrigues, R-Estero, and Rep. Lori Berman, DLantana – will exempt for 20 years the assessed val-
BUSINESSWIRE.COM
A solar energy system is shown at an IKEA in the city of Sunrise. They also are atop IKEA stores in Orlando and Tampa. ue of solar and renewableenergy devices installed on businesses and industrial properties. “Eliminating high tax barriers will unleash the potential of the ‘Sunshine State’ to become a leader in solar energy production,” Rodrigues said in a prepared statement. Berman said the election results allow Florida to “enter a new era where renewable energy can be accessible for all, and clean energy jobs can be at the forefront of Florida’s economy.”
Residential element Voters approved a similar exemption for residential property owners
in 2008, with the measure taking effect in 2014. The new proposal also has an element to help residential property owners, as it would exempt all renewable-energy equipment from state tangible personal property taxes. Support for the measure came from a wide range of organizations such as the Florida Retail Federation, the Florida Restaurant & Lodging Association, the Florida Petroleum Marketers and Convenience Store Association, the Florida AFL-CIO, the Nature Conservancy, the Sierra Club of Florida and Surfrider Foundation. A poll released last week by the Florida Chamber of Commerce showed 70 per-
cent of Floridians supported the proposal, with 14 percent opposed. Yet on Aug. 26, MasonDixon Polling & Research released findings that indicated the measure was having serious trouble with Republicans and independent voters.
Some confusion Some late opposition to the measure came from groups such as the Orlando-based political action committees Stop Playing Favorites and the Advocacy, Action & Accountability Alliance, which claimed the amendment would provide “millions in tax breaks to big corporations” at the expense of money that would
JetBlue makes historic flight to Cuba BY CHABELI HERRARA MIAMI HERALD/TNS
FORT LAUDERDALE – To a fanfare of Cuban music and a water canon salute, the first commercial flight to cross the Florida Straits to Cuba in decades took off Wednesday morning, ushering in a new era in the everwarming relations between the U.S. and the island nation. The sold-out trip to the central Cuban area of Santa Clara took off from Fort Lauderdale-Hollywood International Airport just after 10 a.m. on JetBlue, the first airline to secure a commercial flight to Cuba. Flights on Silver Airways and American Airlines
will follow in the coming weeks. “Today is one of those days when the smile on your face can break your face — because we are finally going to Cuba,” said Stacy Ritter, president of the Greater Fort Lauderdale Convention & Visitors bureau, to hundreds of assembled media and JetBlue personnel.
Warm welcome Pastelitos, Cuban sandwiches, croquettes and even a cake in the shape of a cigar box were on hand to send off the 160-seat flight, a moment defined historic by Cuba’s Ambassador to the U.S., Jose Cabañas. Two firetrucks sprayed ceremonial water canons as the
jet rolled onto the runway. JetBlue was wheels down in Santa Clara’s Abel Santamaria Airport, located three hours east of Havana, just after 11 a.m. Wednesday and welcomed by a group of dignitaries. JetBlue will begin to operate Monday, Wednesday and Friday flights from Fort LauderdaleHollywood International Airport before daily service begins on Oct 1. JetBlue will also fly daily to Camagüey starting Nov. 3 and Holguín beginning Nov. 10 from Fort Lauderdale.
Others to follow American Airlines is offering flights to Cuba from Miami Inter-
otherwise flow into minority communities. Backers of the measure also had to overcome some confusion that the proposal was linked to a separate utility-backed solar proposal on the November ballot. With Tuesday’s victory, supporters of Amendment 4 are now expected to divide up on what is known as Amendment 1 in November.
Another amendment Stephen Smith, executive director of the Southern Alliance for Clean Energy, said his group is ready to immediately “pivot” from having supported
national Airport to Cienfuegos, Holguín, Camagüey, Santa Clara and Varadero, with its inaugural flights to Cienfuegos and Holguín kicking off on Sept. 7. Its inaugural flight, the first commercial one from Miami to Cuba, will take 160 passengers. Frontier, Southwest Airlines and Sun Country Airlines also have won DOT approval for routes outside Havana but have not yet announced when they will begin service. Regional airline Silver Airways was to fly to Cuba for the first time on Sept. 1, with about 30 travelers, to Santa Clara from Fort Lauderdale. Frontier, Southwest Airlines and Sun Country Airlines also have earned approval from the Department of Transportation for routes outside Havana but have not yet announced when
Amendment 4 to vocally opposing Amendment 1. “What Amendment 1 does not have is the support of a broad, very diverse, grassroots coalition,” Smith said. “It is exactly what it is, a utility-backed, utility-funded, self-promoting approach to try to keep a monopoly control on their terms.” The November “Consumers for Smart Solar” initiative would generally maintain the status quo in allowing Floridians with solar equipment on their property to sell energy to power companies. More than $15 million has already been spent promoting the November amendment.
they will begin service.
Visas needed Americans can travel to Cuba under 12 categories of travel, which excludes travel for strictly tourism. Travelers will still need to obtain an entrance visa, the most common form of which is referred to as a tourist card or visa. JetBlue said it will also sell visas upon check-in for about $50. Visas for business or media won’t be available at check-in. JetBlue has also tentatively been awarded four daily flights between Havana and Fort Lauderdale, New York City and Orlando. Neither JetBlue nor American, which was awarded five daily flights to Havana, have announced what dates they will fly to the Cuban capital.
Judge who sent domestic violence victim to jail reprimanded BY RENE STUTZMAN ORLANDO SENTINEL/TNS
Seminole County Judge Jerri Collins was publicly reprimanded in Tallahassee on Tuesday by Florida’s chief justice for publicly belittling a domestic violence victim. Last year, Collins ordered the woman to jail for three days for failing to come to court and testify against the man she accused of abusing her. Judge Jerri The woman tried to exCollins plain, saying, “I’ve been dealing with depression and a lot of personal anxiety since this happened. … ” The judge snapped, “You think you’re going to have anxiety now? You haven’t even seen anxiety.”
Rules violated The state agency that polices judges, the Judicial Qualifications Commission (JQC), charged Collins with violating several rules that spell out how Florida judges
are to behave. They are to be patient, dignified and courteous, and Collins was not, according to the JQC. The 54-year-old judge agreed that she had been in the wrong. She also agreed to the public reprimand, and to take an anger management course and one on domestic violence. She had the legal right to jail the woman, the Florida Supreme Court found, but she should not have been so mean.
Discourteous, impatient “You berated and belittled a victim of domestic violence,” said Chief Justice Jorge Labarga. “You were discourteous and impatient … You raised your voice, used sarcasm, spoke harshly and interrupted the victim.” Labarga also admonished Collins, a former prosecutor, for appearing to favor the state. Collins also failed the woman that day, Labarga pointed out, because no one told her she was entitled to defend herself. Collins stood in the Tallahassee courtroom and said nothing during the fiveminute lecture.
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SEPTEMBER 2 – SEPTEMBER 8, 2016
Republicans should stop hating on Trump Many in the Republican Party have criticized Donald Trump’s campaign, not because they want Trump to win, but because “they” don’t want to lose. They don’t want to lose their “power.” They want to be reelected to their various congressional and gubernatorial offices strictly for the sake of having power, not because they want to pursue a specific agenda.
GOP sold out We, the voters, have put Republicans in office, but it seems as though before their hand is removed from the Bible, they are giving President Obama everything he wants including funding for Syrian refugees, the Trans-Pacific Partnership, amnesty for illegals, entitlements for homosexuals, increased budget deficits, etc. So when people like me criticize our party, we are told that we are “not being good Republicans.” I have no idea what that means. If we didn’t give a damn about our party, then we would most assuredly remain silent out of a sheer sense of apathy. But, like a concerned parent, because we do care we are compelled to speak out when we see our party losing its way. So it’s frustrating when Republicans constantly criticize Trump’s candidacy. The people who are most vocal in their opposition to Trump have never used this same type of energy to
RAYNARD JACKSON NNPA COLUMNIST
criticize Hillary Clinton or Barack Obama. To have so many Republicans actively embrace Hillary Clinton is mind-blowing. Those who have accused me of being too critical of the party all of a sudden have laryngitis when it comes to those who have endorsed Clinton. I challenge my readers to compare me with those who have endorsed Clinton and been held up as moral heroes of the party. All of us have impeccable party credentials. We all have proven track records of being “good Republicans.” I will allow you, the reader, to figure out the only difference between them and me.
Here’s the test I challenge Trump, and especially his transition team, to put a simple litmus test on anyone who wants to serve on the transition committee and a future Trump administration. Every person who wants to be on the Trump transition team should be required to publically endorse and support the Trump campaign. If they are not willing to do so, they should be barred from serving in any capacity.
Hillary Clinton stands on Shirley Chisholm’s shoulders “Women in this country must become revolutionaries. We must refuse to accept the old, the traditional roles and stereotypes… We must replace the old, negative thoughts about our femininity with positive thoughts and positive action affirming it, and more. But we must also remember that we will be breaking with tradition, and so we must prepare ourselves educationally, economically, and psychologically in order that we will be able to accept and bear with the sanctions that society will immediately impose upon us.” – Shirley Chisholm The nation has marked the historic occasion of the first woman in American history to win the presidential nomination for a major political party. While Hillary Clinton has come further than any woman presidential candidate, she is not the first. Victoria Woodhull ran as the candidate for the Equal Rights Party in 1872. Margaret Chase Smith challenged Barry Goldwater for the Republican nomination in 1964. More recently,
MARC H. MORIAL TRICE EDNEY NEWS WIRE
Chisholm retired from Congress in 1982 and remained an outspoken activist for civil rights until her death in 2005. Pat Schroeder in 1988 and Carol Moseley Braun in 2004 vied for the Democratic nomination.
Most significant But the most historically significant forerunner to Hillary Clinton was Shirley Chisholm, the Brooklyn-born trailblazer
We must support George E. Curry’s freedom-fighting legacy The freedom struggle and civil rights movement of Black people in America and throughout the world have lost another courageous freedom fighter, journalist and leader. The National Newspaper Publishers Association (NNPA) salutes, respects, and supports the freedom-fighting legacy of George Edward Curry. George Curry was our beloved editor-in-chief of the NNPA News Wire service and after decades of outstanding contributions and service to the Black Press in America, George evolved to be admired by fellow journalists as the dean of Black Press colum-
DR. BENJAMIN F. CHAVIS, JR. NNPA COLUMNIST
nists. As a foot soldier in the civil rights movement in the 1960s, I have been blessed to have known and worked with George Curry as a fearlessly effective freedom fighter.
Challenged injustice If I could find one word in the English language to describe the
VISUAL VIEWPOINT: ELECTIONS IN AMERICA
The liberal media is practically throwing money at anyone who is Republican and will to talk badly about Trump. All of a sudden Black Republicans are in great demand on CNN and MSNBC – but only for those who will savagely criticize Trump and all things Republican. The ironic thing about all these Black Republicans, who have suddenly been filled with righteous indignation over Trump, is that they have not lifted their voice one iota about the lack of Black staffers in congressional offices and throughout the Republican Party.
ARCADIO ESQUIVEL, COSTA RICA, CAGLECARTOONS.COM
Kept silent These Black Republicans who are bashing Trump rarely help Black college students get an internship on Capitol Hill. They have little to no relationship with the Black community. In other words, they had laryngitis during the past decades of the party simply ignoring Blacks. But they want to get rid of Trump, who has utilized more Blacks in key positions than the sum of the 16 candidates he beat during the primary. One criticism I will lay on Trump is that he has hired more Black Democrats than Black Republicans. I have a major problem with. But, again, where are these Black Republican puppets on CNN and MSNBC on issues like this? They are getting their thirwho was also the nation’s first African-American congresswoman. The daughter of working-class immigrants from the Caribbean, Chisholm became interested in politics while serving as the director of a child day care center and an educational consultant for the New York City Division of Day Care. She served three years as a New York State assemblywoman before running for Congress in 1968 with the slogan, “Unbought and Unbossed.” “My greatest political asset, which professional politicians fear, is my mouth, out of which come all kinds of things one shouldn’t always discuss for reasons of political expediency,” Chisholm said.
‘Two handicaps’ Chisholm hired only women for her staff, half of whom were African-Americans. “Of my two handicaps, being female put many more obstacles in my path than being Black,” she said. She announced her candidacy for president at a Baptist church in Brooklyn. In an article about her candidacy, the Associated Press wrote, “Ironically, her major headache seems to come from Black politicians.” “They think that I am trying to professional and brotherly tenacity of George Curry, it would be “courageous.” He used his pen and his wit to openly challenge injustice in the face and presence of oppression. George had the courage to both write and speak truth to power without compromise of principle or ethics. Reverend Jesse Jackson and Reverend Al Sharpton both travelled to Tuscaloosa to pay tribute and to eulogize the memory and legacy of George Curry. Rev. Jackson affirmed, “George was a freedom fighter.” Dr. Charles Steele Jr, President of the Southern Christian Leadership Conference (SCLC), also a native of Tuscaloosa and lifelong friend of George paid tribute to Curry’s leadership and activism as a “freedom movement” journalist. Before George died, he had established EmergeNewsOnline.com. The NNPA supports George’s legacy and we encour-
ty pieces of silver and are neither concerned with the greater good of the party nor our community.
A key hire Very few of these Black Republicans even acknowledged the RNC’s move to hire Shannon Reeves as a consultant. In the words of “Pookie an’ dem,” Shannon is a real OG (original gangsta). For the uninitiated, he is an experienced pro who knows what the hell he is doing and has “street cred.” Most of these jokers on TV have no idea who he is. Reeves was the former national director of State and Local Development for the Republican National Committee. He is a lifelong member of the Church of God In Christ. He is the only pertake power away from them,” she said. “The Black man must step forward. But that doesn’t mean the Black woman must step back. While they’re rapping and snapping, I’m mapping.” She competed in 14 states, winning 28 delegates to the convention. As a symbolic gesture, candidate Hubert Humphrey released his 83 Black delegates to cast their votes for Chisholm. With the votes of several other delegates at that contentious convention, Chisholm finished fourth in a field of 13, with 152 delegates.
Gesture of concern It is hard to imagine, in this era of sharp division in politics, the remarkable moment during that campaign when she visited her segregationist rival, Alabama Governor George Wallace, in his hospital room after he was shot and wounded. “What are your people going to say?” he asked her. “I know what they are going to say,” she said. “But I wouldn’t want what happened to you to happen to anyone.” She recalled that her words moved him to tears. Chisholm retired from Congress in 1982 and remained an outspoken activist for civil rights until her death in 2005. age everyone to support Emerge News Online to ensure that what George envisioned and worked hard to establish will continue to grow and be successful in the marketplace. In my remarks on behalf of the NNPA at the “Celebration of the Life of George Curry,” I shared that, “I have been in the presence of Malcolm X. I have been in the presence of The Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. I have been in the presence of the Honorable Minister Louis Farrakhan. I’ve been in the presence of some of our giants, male and female, but I want to say on this public record, in my life, I’ve never met a brother that’s had more courage than George Curry.”
Supporting his mission As we face the immediate future, let us all first be thankful that we had the opportunity and blessing to work with George
Charles W. Cherry II, Esq., Publisher
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son ever to serve simultaneously as an elected NAACP president and an elected officer of the California Republican Party. Reeves is one of the smartest political operators in the country, bar none. He will be creating a national database of Blacks that will be used for future elections. Reeves is the gold standard by which all future hires must measure up to.
Raynard Jackson is founder and chairman of Black Americans for a Better Future (BAFBF), a federally registered Super PAC established to get more Blacks, especially entrepreneurs, involved in the Republican Party. For more information, visit www.bafbf.org.
Major impact It would be difficult to overestimate the impact and influence of Chisholm’s congressional service and presidential candidacy. While Congress remains disproportionately White and male, one in five members of the current House and Senate are a racial or ethnic minority, making the 114th Congress the most diverse in history. The nation’s first AfricanAmerican president is winding up his second term, and a woman – a former senator and secretary of state – has just won the Democratic nomination for president. In her acclaimed speech on the Equal Rights Amendment in 1970, Chisholm said, “The Constitution they wrote was designed to protect the rights of White male citizens. As there were no Black founding fathers, there were no founding mothers – a great pity on both counts. It is not too late to complete the work they left undone. Today, here, we should start to do so.”
Marc Morial is president and CEO of the National Urban League. Curry. But we must show our gratitude by making sure that his courageous example of journalism continues. There is an African proverb that says “Freedom fighters do not in spirit pass away, their spirit lives to inspire the next generation of freedom fighters.” We all know that George Curry supported mentoring and guiding the development of young journalists who are committed to the Black Press. That’s why the NNPA’s Discover the Unexpected (DTU) Journalism Fellowship program is so important. May these young journalists and others be guided by the great example of George Curry.
Benjamin F. Chavis, Jr. is the president and CEO of the National Newspaper Publishers Association.
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SEPTEMBER 2 – SEPTEMBER 8, 2016
EDITORIAL
Why Black America should vote for Trump I have written often about Blacks’ blind loyalty to a Democratic Party plantation system that has given them little leverage in presidential politics and has been harmful to Black America – especially the poor. That’s why I was so glad to see Donald Trump venture where no Republican presidential candidate has dared to venture to “tell it like it is” regarding the condition of urban Black America; expose the “dirty little secrets” that no Black or White Democrat will talk about; and that most Black journalists and civil rights groups refuse to hold elected officials accountable for!
What did Trump say? He just told the truth: • Black parents have a right to walk outside without being shot and to a good education for their children. • Almost 4,000 have been killed in President Obama’s hometown area since his presidency began. • Our job is not to make life more comfortable for the rioter and looter. • Our job is to make life more comfortable for the Black parents who want their kids to be able to walk home safely from school and the senior citizen who wants to be safe waiting for a bus. • There is no compassion in allowing drug dealers, gang members, and felons to prey on inno-
CLARENCE V. MCKEE, ESQ. GUEST COMMENTARY
The late great P.T. Barnum, creator of “The Greatest Show On Earth,” was famous for finding the weirdest and the most distinct individuals and creatures, and placing them in his circus to attract thousands of spectators the world over. He once said “there is a sucker born every minute.” Donald Trump, like P.T. Barnum, is still in the business of looking for suckers to entertain. His most recent bellicose outreach is to attract African-American voters, comes at a time when he is losing 50-90 percent of the Black and Brown vote.
yarmulkes every day. Those are the kind of people I want counting my money. Nobody else. “Besides that, I’ve got to tell you something. I think that the guy is lazy and it’s probably not his fault because laziness is a trait in Blacks. It really is. I believe that. It’s not anything they can control.”
Go back
The same guy
An old African proverb says, “To understand the ending, you must first go back to the beginning.” In the beginning, this same Donald Trump and his father were sued for racial bias in housing in 1973. The case was settled out of court. Years later, John O’Donnell, president of Trump Plaza Hotel & Casino in Atlantic City, wrote a memoir about his experience with Mr. Trump. He said “Mr. Trump blamed his financial difficulties on AfricanAmerican accountants.” The book quoted Trump as saying, “I’ve got Black accountants at Trump Castle and at Trump Plaza – Black guys counting my money! I hate it. The only kind of people I want counting my money are short guys wearing
Trump led the way for the “birther” movement against Barack Obama, questioning his legitimacy as a US citizen. Trump tweeted that Blacks killed 81 percent of White homicide victims, which is false. The actual number was closer to 15 percent, and 82 percent of Whites were reportedly killed by Whites. Trump has supported “punching them in the face,” “carrying them out on a stretcher,” and encouraging physical violence at rallies in which Blacks have been hit in the face by onlookers and supporters of Trump. Trump refused to the come to the NAACP national convention, held down the street practically from the Republican National Convention, citing scheduling
REV. DR. WENDELL ANTHONY GUEST COMMENTARY
Does Black entrepreneurship matter? The most recent data on minority-owned firms in the United States was collected in 2012 (and released at the end of 2015). It showed that the number of minority-owned firms rose from 5.8 million in 2007 to 8 million in 2012. African-American-owned firms grew by 34.5 percent to 2.6 million. Women-owned firms grew by 26.8 percent compared to firms owned by men, growing by just 6.8 percent. But the ugly underside of the growth data is the fact that only 11 percent of minority-owned firms have employees. In other words, most of these firms are one-person businesses, providing consulting and other services from just one individual. Only 4 percent of African-American owned firms – just 109,137 of the total
DR. JULIANNE MALVEAUX TRICEEDNEYWIRE.COM
2.6 million businesses – have employees. The growth in new businesses, then, may be the result of people forming businesses when they lost or left jobs, as opposed to people entering business with an entrepreneurial vision that includes hiring and expansion. The biggest challenge that Black entrepreneurs face is access to capital, or the difficulties experienced in attempting to get a bank loan. Some of the reasons have to do with lack of collateral, or with the fact that African-
VISUAL VIEWPOINT: BACK TO SCHOOL
When was the last time we heard members of the Congressional Black Caucus who represent most of these urban terror zones, the NAACP, the National Association of Black Journalists or any Black elected official in these cities raise important issues. How many Black and White Democratic officials (until there are riots) have we heard calling for an end to the violence and slaughter of so many, including innocent children, in gang-infested neighborhoods in Chicago, Milwaukee, Baltimore, Miami and other urban areas?
cent people. The Democratic Party has betrayed the African-American community and its crime, education, and economic policies have produced only more crime, more broken homes, and more poverty. And they really got upset when Trump said: “You’re living in poverty, your schools are no good, you have no jobs, 58 percent of Dems embarrassed your youth is unemployed. What When it takes a White Republithe hell do you have to lose?” can to step up to the plate and tell the truth about the problems facAll true ing Blacks in our cities, they are Every one of these statements and should be embarrassed – all is true! Trump’s comments mirror of them – Black and White alike! what many Black conservatives It’s a no-win issue for Trump. have been saying for decades. Since they can’t attack him for Those criticizing Trump most telling the truth, they criticize him likely don’t live in neighborhoods because he spoke to White audiwithin earshot of gunshots day ences. If he had gone to a Black and night and don’t send their audience, they would have critichildren to the inferior schools cized him for not daring to say it that many inner city children are in front of a White audience beforced to attend. cause of fear of losing their votes. So, when White Republican It’s about time a White poliDonald Trump exposes the sub- tician went before a White autle classism and racism of the lib- dience and spoke about the iseral Democrat establishment, they sues of inner city America! White can huff, puff, and call him and his Democrats and Republicans have supporters racists all they want, historically not done that. Trump but they can’t deny the truth! did and for that he should be
Why Black America should dump Trump
A5
conflicts. He has a private plane, private helicopters, private vehicles, Secret Service, and police surveillance so that he is never caught up in any traffic jam. Trump that did not attend the National Association of Black Journalists’ convention to speak about issues affecting Black and Brown communities. Trump recently fired another campaign manager, Paul Manafort, and hired Stephen K. Bannon, head of Breitbart News, one of America’s well-known White nationalist extremist media outlets. Bannon proudly proclaimed through his news outlet, after the murder of nine churchgoers at Mother Emanuel AME Church in South Carolina about the Confederate flag, saying “Hoist it high and proud; the Confederate flag proclaims a glorious heritage.” If Mr. Trump is concerned about reaching out to AfricanAmerican voters, why then would he hire such an individual?
Talk about policies Speaking to a 93 percent White audience in Dimondale, Mich., or an all-White suburb in Milwaukee, Wis., does not reflect a sincerity in reaching out to the African-American community. Mr. Trump, why don’t you select the specific location in the heart of the city, and lay out your urban agenda? African-Americans do not want to be talked about, around, or over. African-Americans want to be talked to and have discussions with their communities on policy issues. You may start with how many African-Americans you have working at the senior manage-
Americans experience a wealth gap so large that few can jump through the fiscal hoops that many banks require. Some estimates say that Whites have between 13 and 18 times more wealth than African-Americans. African-American entrepreneurs won’t get a loan unless they have assets or collateral to back the loan up. Yet it is in the national interest to promote minority entrepreneurship and particularly Black entrepreneurship. Even Republican President Richard Nixon “got it” when he authorized the establishment of the Minority Business Development Agency (MBDA) and used the term “economic justice” to talk about the barriers to entrepreneurship that AfricanAmericans had experienced. Though the agency, established in 1968, has been in existence for nearly 50 years, many AfricanAmericans find entry barriers as daunting as they were when the agency was established. Why? Many businesspeople have reverted to old patterns of giving opportunities and contracts to their friends, instead of tapping a diverse pool of businesses that can deliver. Others say they can’t
DAVE GRANLUND, POLITICALCARTOONS.COM
commended!
Last chance? This election may be Black America’s last chance for relevance in presidential elections for decades. They are the only voter group that does not ask their elected officials: “What have you done for me lately?” And for that, they have paid dearly! If after Donald Trump’s unprecedented direct appeal for support by a Republican Presidential candidate, 90 to 98 percent of Blacks vote for Hillary Clinton, they will get what they deserve – total, yet quiet, disrespect from both parties. They could go down in history
ment level for Trump Industries. How many African-American businesses do you joint venture with? What African-American construction managers or firms have you used to build your huge towers? What Black banking institutions have you invested any of your finances? Let us see a record of the African-American companies listed on your procurement rolls as active business partners. What the hell do AfricanAmericans have to lose, Mr. Trump has asked.
Here’s a list
as being perfect political examples of the “will you respect me in the morning” syndrome and be irrelevant in presidential politics for the next 20 years. But, if on the other hand, 15-20 percent of a Black silent majority say, “We have had enough” and vote for Trump, history will be made and the Democrats’ chains on Black America could be cut.
Clarence V. McKee is a government, political and media relations consultant and president of McKee Communications, Inc., as well as a Newsmax.com contributor. This article originally appeared on Newsmax.com.
the gains made by a U.S. auto industry that was saved by a president who understood the need for a hand-up, not a handout to prevent the collapse of this industry.
Women lose Our mothers, wives, daughters, and sisters have the potential to lose their right to choose what they do with their own bodies, and not be punished because a President believes he should determine their health destiny. We have the potential to lose the basic freedoms that we have enjoyed as one man uses a “law and order” and “states’ rights” dog whistle which takes African-Americans back to a time in which America claimed law and order for some, and no law and much disorder for others. We stand to lose the attention that has been paid to young people who understand BLACK LIVES DO MATTER. This is not because other lives don’t matter, yet due to the disparate deaths of Black and Brown men in cities across our nation, they have not always mattered equally. Mr. Trump, in addition to all that has been mentioned, we stand to lose our fundamental dignity and self-respect. Therefore, most members of the African-American community will not be sucked into a political circus, with you starring as the ringmaster.
We have the potential to lose the gains we have made in voting rights, civil rights, and human rights, if we go back to the time (whenever that was) when, according to Mr. Trump, “America Was Great Again.” We have the possibility of losing the opportunity to gain new seats on the U.S. Supreme Court, which can finally come to a balanced and more equitable system of justice for all Americans. We have the potential to lose our international standing among the world of nations, when it comes to cooperating with and standing next to an American president that can speak with one voice on crises in the world. We have the potential to lose healthcare that has been provided for millions of Whites and Blacks who, before Obamacare, had no access to health care. We have the potential to lose higher wages and income equality based on Mr. Trump’s own acknowledgement that he does not Rev. Dr. Wendell Anthony is support a livable wage for people president of the Detroit Branch in our nation. We have the potential to lose of the NAACP.
deal with those tiny companies that have no employees and just one principal scrambling to do all the work For all the barriers and challenges of scale, minority businesses are important because they are more likely to hire minority workers, those affected by the persistent unemployment rate gap. Entrepreneurship matters because it expands the realm of possibility for people of color, allows people to participate fully in the economic realm, and provides people with the opportunity to earn profits and to share those profits with family and community.
Some solutions
While many minority businesses crave independence, the acceptance of outside investors can facilitate growth. Finally, banks must “do the right thing” by providing more capital than they currently do. Minority businesses must also understand that economic development can happen with economic justice. They must provide jobs that pay living wages to the workers they hire. It makes no sense for the Black community to advocate for Black business if Black business will not pay a living wage with reasonable benefits. Minority entrepreneurship matters most when it is both profitable and community-transforming. Candidates need to be challenged to talk about minority business participation. Do they subscribe to the principle of “economic justice?” How does that manifest in their campaign spending?
Fortune 500 companies must commit to supplier diversity and set numerical procurement goals. Federal, state and local governments, too, must ensure that there is full minority participation in the contracts they award. Those who work with minority firms must provide incentives for Julianne Malveaux is a Washfirms to do joint venture activities or to merge so that they can deal ington, D.C.-based economist with issues of scale. and writer.
TOJ A6
NATION
SEPTEMBER 2 – SEPTEMBER 8, 2016 early Sunday morning. Three more people were killed and at least 18 others were wounded in shootings from 10 a.m. Sunday until early Monday morning.
Illegal guns, gangs
NUCCIO DINUZZO/CHICAGO TRIBUNE/TNS
Chicago police officials have cited the constant flow of illegal firearms through dangerous neighborhoods and an intractable gang problem – with some disputes beginning on social media platforms like Facebook and Twitter – as strong contributors to the city’s violence. In recent months, police Superintendent Eddie Johnson has been pushing lawmakers in Springfield to pass legislation requiring harsher sentences for criminals arrested repeatedly for carrying illegal guns. Last month, Johnson met with several police chiefs from across the country to discuss the nation’s gun violence problem, noting that Chicago was among about 40 U.S. cities that had experienced spikes in violence.
Members of the Chicago Police department investigate a shooting scene in the 5600 block of South Campbell Ave. on Aug. 28.
Violence surge
August the most violent month in Chicago in 20 years
In Washington, D.C., homicides rose in 2015 for the first time in a decade, according to that city’s police chief, Cathy Lanier. The surge in violence comes at a tumultuous time for the Chicago Police Department. It is still dealing with the aftermath of the court-ordered release of video showing Chicago police Officer Jason Van Dyke shooting Laquan McDonald 16 times, killing the teen as he walked away from police with a knife in his hand. The public furor from the video’s release last November led Mayor Rahm Emanuel to fire Garry McCarthy as the superintendent. Murder charges were filed against Van Dyke and the head of the police oversight agency resigned as the U.S. Department of Justice began a wideranging civil rights investigation into the department.
84 people died in one month; 487 this year BY JEREMY GORNER AND PETER NICKEAS CHICAGO TRIBUNE/TNS
CHICAGO – August was the most violent month in Chicago in 20 years, as weekend shootings raised the number of homicides this year to just a few shy of all of last year. A total of 67 people were shot over the Aug. 26-28 weekend and
11 of them died. It was one of the deadliest weekends this year and pushed the number of homicides for the month to 84 (as of Aug. 29), according to data collected by the Tribune. The city hadn’t seen a month with 80 or more homicides since October of 1996, which logged 85. August of that year also saw 85 homicides and June of that year saw 90.
More than L.A., New York City Chicago has a lower homicide rate than many other U.S. cities
that are smaller in population. But this year, the city has recorded more homicides and shooting victims than New York City and Los Angeles combined. Chicago has recorded 487 homicides and more than 2,800 people shot so far this year, compared to 491 homicides all of last year and 2,988 people shot, according to Tribune and CPD data. New York, with more than three times the population of Chicago, has recorded 222 homicides and 760 shooting victims, according to NYPD crime statistics through Aug. 21. In Los Angeles, a city of about 4 million, 176 people have been slain and 729 people shot, according to LAPD crime data through Aug. 20.
Wade’s cousin dies The gun violence in Chicago has been concentrated on the South and West sides that have lost population over the years as
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other areas have grown. The Harrison District on the West Side, for example, has had almost 400 people shot this year after logging 350 all of last year. Englewood saw 330 people shot all of last year and has tallied close to 300 this year. The deadliest night of last weekend was Friday into early Saturday, when four people were killed, including Nykea Aldridge, 32, the Nykea cousin of ChicaAldridge go Bull Dwyane Wade. She was pushing her baby in a stroller in the 6300 block of South Calumet Avenue when two men approached and began shooting at a man walking near her. At least 26 more people were shot, three of them fatally, between Saturday afternoon and
Alexandra Chachkevitch contributed to this report.
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‘Southside’ recreates first date of Obamas See page B3
SOUTH FLORIDA / TREASURE COAST AREA
SEPTEMBER 2 – SEPTEMBER 8, 2016
SHARING BLACK LIFE, STATEWIDE
Plenty of celebs at Tom Joyner reunion in Florida See page B2
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Crusading Black journalist George E. Curry was celebrated during a rousing homegoing service in his hometown of Tuscaloosa, Alabama before being interred in a ‘sacred place of resting.’
PHOTOS BY CHARLES W. CHERRY II / FLORIDA COURIER
Mourners stood and sang “We Shall Overcome” as George E. Curry’s homegoing service ended at Weeping Mary Baptist Church.
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Editor’s note: Read a full report on Curry’s homegoing service on Page A1. BY THE FLORIDA COURIER STAFF
USCALOOSA, ALA. – Renowned civil rights and political journalist George E. Curry, the dean of Black press columnists because of his riveting weekly commentary in Black newspapers across the country, was remembered as a legend during a Friday night viewing and memorial service and a Saturday morning homegoing service last week. Curry died suddenly of heart failure on Saturday, Aug. 20. He was 69. “He stood tall. He helped pave the way for other journalists of color to do their jobs without the questions and doubts,” said the Rev. Jesse Jackson Sr. with whom Curry traveled extensively, including to the funeral of President Nelson Mandela. “He was a proud and tireless advocate of the Black press, serving two tours as editor-in-chief of the National Newspaper Publishers Association’s news service.”
1. George Curry’s fiancée, Elizabeth “Ann” Ragland, looks on as Curry’s remains are placed into the waiting hearse. 2. Kemba Smith Pradia called Curry “our hero” for publishing Emerge magazine stories that led to President Bill Clinton commuting her 24-year prison sentence. 3. Eulogist Rev. Al Sharpton, right, is urged on by Curry’s best friend, Dr. Charles Steele.
Returned home Having grown up in Tuscaloosa during the height of racial segregation, Curry often said he “fled Alabama” and vowed never to return when he went away to college. However, Curry’s fiancée, Elizabeth “Ann” Ragland, said he always told her to return him home to Tuscaloosa upon his death.
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4. Two Curry fans traveled from Atlanta to attend the homegoing service. 5. Florida Courier Publisher Charles W. Cherry II and Van Hoose & Steele Funeral Home assistant Tony Jones witnessed Curry’s burial as required under Alabama law. 6. Southern Christian Leadership Conference members pay their respects at Curry’s resting place.
SCLC connection
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Curry was connected to the Southern Christian Leadership Conference (SCLC) through his longtime childhood friend, confidant and ally in civil rights, Dr. Charles Steele, the SCLC’s current president. Steele and Curry grew up together in Tuscaloosa where they played football at Druid High School. Curry bloomed as a civil rights and sports writer as Steele grew into a politician and civil rights leader. Steele’s family-owned funeral home, Van Hoose and Steele, was in charge of arrangements. Steele also presided over Curry’s memorial service and homegoing service.
Information from the Trice Edney News Wire was used for this report.
CALENDAR
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FLORIDA COMMUNITY CALENDAR Daytona Beach: BethuneCookman University will face Alcorn State University on Sept. 4 in the 12th annual MEAC/ SWAC Challenge. The football game kicks off at 1 p.m. at Municipal Stadium. It will air live on ESPN. Miami Gardens: The Voting Rights Teach-In 2016 is 1 to 4 p.m. Sept. 10 at Florida Memorial University’s Lou Rawls Center for the Performing Arts. Guest speaker: Harvard Law Professor Charles J. Ogletree. Hollywood: George Lopez’s comedy tour stops at Hard Rock Live on Sept. 3. Miami: The Bad Boy Family Reunion will be at the AmericanAirlines Arena on Sept. 10 and Tampa’s Amalie Arena on Sept. 11. Performers will include Puff Daddy (Sean Combs), Faith Evans, Lil Kim and French Montana. St. Augustine: The 451st
anniversary of the founding of the city is Sept. 10, hosted by volunteers of Florida Living History Inc. and Mission Nombre de Dios. Details: www. floridalivinghistory.org www. missionandshrine.org. Fort Lauderdale: The Keb’ Mo’ Band will perform Sept. 22 at the Parker Playhouse. Miami Beach: Leon Bridges will perform Sept. 13 at the Fillmore Miami Beach at the Jackie Gleason Theater. Clearwater: Leon Bridges performs Sept. 14 at Ruth Eckerd Hall.
SEPTEMBER 2 – SEPTEMBER 8, 2016
STOJ
CHARLES JENKINS TOMMY FORD JILL SCOTT
The Allstate Tom Joyner Family Reunion is underway at the Gaylord Palms Resort and Convention Center in Kissimmee through Sept. 5 with concerts, seminars and other events. Participating celebs include Jill Scott, Tisha Campbell, Tommy Ford; a “Masters of Funk’’ show with Brick, The Bar-Kays, ConFunkShun; and a Gospel Explosion with Erica Campbell, Hezekiah Walker and Charles Jenkins. Complete lineup: FamilyReunion. BlackAmericaWeb.com.
Jacksonville: Tickets are on sale for the “Puttin’ on the Ritz’’ show on Oct. 7 at the Ritz Theatre. Tampa: Kanye West’s The Saint Pablo Tour stops at Amalie Arena on Sept. 14 and Miami’s AmericanAirlines Arena on Sept. 16. Daytona Beach: Tickets are on sale for an Oct. 22 show with Jeffrey Osborne and Gerald Albright and Oct. 23 at The Mahaffey in St. Petersburg.
to do so in an inviting environment.”
Intriguing pasttime
URBAN NEWS SERVICE
Monica Cooper created Stixx & Stilettos as “a place where women can talk and discuss issues that are important to them, all while indulging in great cigars.’’
Networking group acquaints women to world of cigars BY CURTIS BUNN URBAN NEWS SERVICE
When Monica Cooper walked into a smoke-filled room, it changed her life. She was a New York promotional model in 1998, when she worked an obscure event that she hardly remembers — except that men there smoked cigars. That occasion welcomed her into a culture in which few Black women had ventured. It also inspired Cooper to launch a niche organization last year that meshes Black women with cigars. Stixx & Stilettos is Cooper’s brainchild. It acquaints Black women with the world of cigars while also helping professional ladies gather to network and socialize, much as golf courses help cultivate business connections.
Free Supplier Diversity Exchange set for Nov. 3 The Supplier Diversity Exchange is scheduled for Nov. 3 from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. at the University of Central Florida Live Oak Event Center, 4115 Pyxis Lane, Orlando. Participants can meet representatives from state, federal and local government at the Supplier Diver-
Place to smoke, talk “The name symbolizes successful women who not only like rolling up their sleeves and working hard,” Cooper said, “but also relaxing and playing hard by enjoying great cigars while loving everything about being feminine, including rocking sexy stilettos. “But Stixx & Stilettos was created to be an environment that women can smoke in that is tailored to them,” Cooper added, “a place where women can talk and discuss issues that are important to them, all while indulging in great cigars.” The culture has been overwhelmingly maledominated — a sort of giant, public man cave. Many women found such spaces inhospitable.
sity Exchange, a new event for Florida-based woman-, veteran- and minorityowned small businesses. The Supplier Diversity Exchange will allow small business owners to: • Learn how to get involved in procurement opportunities and what buyers are seeking. • Network with state, county and federal government representatives in scheduled one-on-one interviews. • Grow their contact base and ultimately their business.
How to register During the event, there
‘Not promoting smoking’
Atlanta’s Sherry Johnson, who has smoked cigars for a decade, has detected a shift. “There seems to be a dramatic increase in the cigar-smoking culture, including Black women,” Johnson said. “Part of the increase is the perception of cigars being a lifestyle product for young and financially successful people. Some think it’s the cool and upscale thing to do. Some are intrigued and enjoy the aroma, taste and ritual. It relaxes them, gives them time to reflect, a way to meet new people.” That’s the hook, said Vanessa Olivier, a Stixx & Stilettos co-founder and New York attorney. She saw cigars hand-rolled at a wedding reception five years ago and became intrigued. “The networking that takes place at some cigar events is far more beneficial than standard networking functions,” Olivier said. “The cigar culture tends to encourage more authentic, in depth and honest exchanges of information, contacts and resources.
“When I started my law practice, many of my first clients were people I had met at cigar events.” Such events help “people to get to know one another in a setting that is intimate and professional.”
Levels playing field Since NBA legend Michael Jordan gave Ron Williams a Cuban cigar 15 years ago, he has been an enthusiast. He is launching Harlem Cigar Company, an e-commerce store with selected brick-and-mortar locations that will produce cigars in Harlem and target women. “Women clearly add to the ambiance of the cigar lounge, but don’t necessarily change the culture,” Williams said. “While it will continue to be a man’s sanctuary, I’ve always felt that a cigar levels the playing field no matter what your walk of life, including gender.” Cooper and Olivier recently concluded Stixx & Stilettos’ Women Run the World Tour, in which they hosted cigar events in New York, D.C. and Atlanta. Cooper called traveling and meeting women cigar smokers “empowering.” While Stixx & Stilettos does not sell the idea of
meeting gentlemen at its events, “You can’t help but notice all of the handsome and distinguished men who frequent cigar lounges,” Cooper said. “The same goes for men. Seeing a beautiful woman who enjoys cigars in a lounge, while possibly an anomaly to them, can be quite refreshing.”
Business opportunity At its core, Stixx & Stilettos is about bringing together women and the cigar experience. It offers summer classes on cigar smoking, regions where leaves are grown and other aspects of this industry. Its website, stixxandstilettos. com, has become a popular destination for female smokers. “When you infuse professional, forward-thinking Black women with a business concept that was virtually untapped, you have the opportunity to carve out your destiny,” Cooper said. “And so we are excited about the future and expanding our reach to African-American women.”
Cigar venues increasingly have become “female friendly” simply through the presence of other ladies of the leaf. The Surgeon General and numerous health organizations warn about the risks of smoking, which discourages many women. This contrasts with the early 1990s, when female celebrities such as Whoopi Goldberg were photographed smoking cigars. Such images made it vogue for women to try “stixx” alongside their male companions. “We are not promoting smoking,” said Cooper, a New York novelist and realtor. “We are offering an opportunity for women who want to smoke or try cigars
will be one-on-one interview sessions and small business owners can market their goods and services directly with state and local buyers. Register for the Supplier Diversity Exchange at www.OrlandoExchange. eventbrite.com. The free event is being sponsored by the Florida Department of Management Services, Office of Supplier Diversity along with the University of Central Florida Diversity in Contracts program. For more information, visit http://www.dms.myflorida.com/OSD or call 850-487-0915.
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STOJ
SEPTEMBER 2 – SEPTEMBER 8, 2016
FINEST & ENTERTAINMENT
Meet some of
FLORIDA’S
finest
submitted for your approval
San Francisco 49ers quarterback Colin Kaepernick says he will continue to take a stand on U.S. race relations. He sparked a national controversy on Aug. 26 when he stayed seated during a performance of the national anthem before a game against Green Bay. Above, he is shown at a previous game. Kaepernick told NFL Media: “I am not going to stand up to show pride in a flag for a country that oppresses Black people and people of color.’’
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Think you’re one of Florida’s Finest? E-mail your high-resolution (200 dpi) digital photo in casual wear or bathing suit taken in front of a plain background with few distractions, to news@flcourier. com with a short biography of yourself and your contact information. (No nude/ glamour/ fashion photography, please!) In order to be considered, you must be at least 18 years of age. Acceptance of the photographs submitted is in the sole and absolute discretion of Florida Courier editors. We reserve the right to retain your photograph even if it is not published. If you are selected, you will be contacted by e-mail and further instructions will be given.
At the Aug. 28 MTV VMA Awards, Beyoncé won eight awards, including video of the year. Prior to the awards ceremony at Madison Square Gardens in New York City, she walked the carpet with Mothers of the Movement who appeared in Beyoncé’s “Lemonade’’ video. The mothers included the moms of Trayvon Martin, Michael Brown and Eric Garner. MTV.COM
NHAT V. MEYER/BAY AREA NEWS GROUP/TNS
Meeting, movie When he explains that the community center meeting he invited her to attend won’t happen for a few hours, she’s ticked. It is not, she announces repeatedly, “a date” that could be considered “inappropriate” back in the office. Their time together “is not a date, until I call it a date.” But he’s a good people person and, as some ladies call him, a “smooth-talking brother.” They visit a museum exhibit of African-American art and discuss painter Ernie Barnes’ lithe, jumping characters. They have sandwiches on a park bench. They eventually attend his promised gathering, where Barack impressively holds court on how to win over White Chicago politicians toward building a community center. They stop for beers, talk some more, then buy tickets and popcorn for a screening of Spike Lee’s “Do the Right Thing.”
Ice cream and kiss
MATT DINERSTEIN/MIRAMAX/ROADSIDE ATTRACTIONS/USA
Tika Sumpter and Parker Sawyers star in “Southside with You, a story about President Barack Obama and wife, Michelle’s charming and challenging amble around Chicago on a summer’s day in 1989.
‘Southside With You’ is a nearperfect love story, date movie BY COLIN COVERT STAR TRIBUNE/TMS
Movies about presidential history tend to be academic affairs, treating the great men with dramatic gravitas and decorum. What a special delight it is to follow one through a moment in his life when he is a sympathetic, relatable young civilian whose top diplomatic mission is winning over the great girl he just met. That’s the treat handed to us by Richard Tanne’s “Southside With You,” a hugely entertaining introduction to Barack Hussein
MOVIE REVIEW Obama and Michelle Robinson long before they became legendary. While it contains some minor political elements — as does real life — this is at heart a near-perfect date movie, a nonpartisan walking and talking love story.
Charming start He is 27 and she is 25 as they set off on a charming and chal-
lenging amble around the city on a summer’s day in 1989. Barack (Parker Sawyers) is noticeably clever and composed. After having grown up in Indonesia and Hawaii, he has become a well-behaved Ivy Leaguer now part way through Harvard Law School. Michelle (Tika Sumpter, who produced with John Legend), raised in South Side Chicago, is a Princeton and Harvard Law alum herself. Tightly focused and razor sharp, she’s already a rising star at the Chicago corporate law firm that Barack has just joined as a
summer associate. His supervisor, in fact. You feel that she was always the smart girl who raised her hand first at school. Here, in their first few hours together in private, she is clearly in charge. And none too impressed when he picks her up in a clunker of a car with rustedout floorboards that resembles Fred Flintstone’s footmobile. He does not seem like the sort of fellow who would someday make her a regular passenger on Air Force One. And she silently disapproves of his smoking.
As hours of getting-to-knowyou conversations relax her, Michelle begins to crumble a bit. For a late dessert, they visit an ice cream shop, share a chocolate cone and a kiss. The rest is history. The film is sharply focused, delivering biographical facts about the pair as casually as new acquaintances would tell their details to each other. She talks about her father’s ironclad work ethic and his ongoing multiple sclerosis, her family’s addiction to “The Brady Bunch” and “The Dick Van Dyke Show.”
Nice finish He explains some of the differences between his parents (“My father looked like Nat King Cole and my mother looked like Patsy Cline”) and his late father’s “incomplete” life. You can understand why each wanted to dig deeper into the other. The dialogue sounds and feels real. Neither star is doing a “Saturday Night Live” impersonation. At a perfectly paced 80 minutes, it’s charming start to finish, and at the conclusion I felt I had a delicious chocolate cone myself.
The Star Tribune is based in Minneapolis.
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WORLD
SEPTEMBER 2 – SEPTEMBER 8, 2016
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A welcoming home for HIV moms, kids Nkosi’s Haven is one of South Africa’s bestknown centers for mothers living with HIV and orphans. BY ERIKA SCHULTZ SEATTLE TIMES/TNS
JOHANNESBURG – Gail Johnson shudders when she thinks of all the tiny white coffins in South Africa 15 years ago. The children playing outside her office windows won’t face the same fate as that of her foster son Nkosi Johnson. He was HIV-positive, a diagnosis that no longer means widespread, hostile discrimination or a death sentence. “The transformation is phenomenal from a life point-ofview,” she said. “People are living. … There are no traffic jams in cemeteries as there were.” Nkosi’s Haven — one of South Africa’s best-known centers for mothers living with HIV and for orphans — marked the 15th anniversary of Nkosi Johnson’s death on June 1.
Named after deceased The organization, with an annual budget of under $300,000, was named for Nkosi, who spoke at the International AIDS Conference in Durban in 2000. He died the next year at age 12. Gail Johnson created the residential center at Nkosi’s request, she said, to allow mothers with HIV to live with their children without fear of separation. On a recent day, the small, colorful set of cottages bustles with 25 HIV-positive mothers and 96 children (of those, 71 are orphans and 35 have HIV). Teenage girls braid hair and listen to music after school, while older women knit in the winter sun. Middle-school-age boys work in the computer lab, while some young girls dash off to practice their dance moves. Inside the kitchen, Gail Johnson, the executive director, takes a break from her computer to taste tomorrow’s meal. After dinner, mothers and children file into the nursing station to take antiretroviral drugs to control the virus.
Living longer Today, South Africa has the largest ARV treatment program in the world, allowing people with HIV to lead rather normal, productive lives.
PHOTOS BY ERIKA SCHULTZ/THE SEATTE TIMES/TNS
Nkosi’s Haven residents crowd around nurse Ntomby Maseko as she gives out antiretroviral drugs after dinner.
Housing, counseling
Teenagers braid hair at Nkosi’s Haven. All of the children attend private schools and have access to counseling, a library, computer lab and playground. Although South Africa continues to have one of the highest HIV-infection rates in the world, the treatment program has helped increase national life ex-
pectancy in the past decade from 53 to over 60. “Now mums are living and lasting indefinitely, which is great,” Johnson said. “We now have to
look at building the capacity of the mothers, so that they can be employable. … Our profile might have to change. But our women still need to be protected.”
Understanding life in rural South Sudan from cattle owner BY ROBYN DIXON LOS ANGELES TIMES/TNS
TEREKEKA, South Sudan – The possessions in Luko Loku’s thatched home convey his simple life. A bedside stool with a sliver of mirror. An old door hinge. A machete lying on the bed frame, as if sleeping. His clothes dangle from a wire, his motorcycle leans against one wall. There’s a hammer, a scattering of plastic cups, a water barrel and little else. But he does have riches, and his wealth is outside, wandering on 2,000 legs — his 500 cattle, making him one of the big men in his neighborhood. This herder from the Mundari tribe lives in the quiet South Sudan town of Terekeka on the Nile River, and his lifestyle has endured for centuries. To understand the ebb and flow of life here — the ancient traditions and the modern threats — talk to Loku and he will tell you of his cattle.
Rich in cattle He has no idea of his age. He has no education, no radio and no television and never reads. He does not own a gun or a mobile phone. His fortunes revolve around his graceful long-horn cattle, and his two favorite bulls, Selimbe (meaning “welcome”) and Mamoro (meaning “united”). The bravest of his herd is a pale grey cow, Lewa. “She is the one in charge of the cattle,” Loku says. “She is the brave one who always goes in front.” His big herd has brought him
fame in his town. To Loku, every good thing that ever happened came from his herd, including his three wives and 21 children. His life’s mission is to increase his herd, with the obsessive hunger of a Wall Street trader chasing the next deal. “I know all my cows, every one. I love them all, because they are all my cows. I have favorites, but I love them all,” Loku says. He demonstrates the kissing noise he makes to call his cows to follow him home in the evening. Sometimes the bulls Selimbe and Mamoro fight. When that happens, he laughs like a fond father, and separates them.
Ceremonial slaughters His cattle, lumbering beasts with grey hides and towering horns, are the center of his life, not only because they bring a family food and wealth, but because they are at the heart of every important ceremony. To marry, men in South Sudan’s herding communities pay the girl’s father a bride price in dozens of cows. “I use these cattle to feed my family and take care of them,” says Loku. “We use the cows for marriage,” he adds. “That’s why they’re important. We slaughter a bull when a visitor comes. We drink the blood or cook with the blood. For weddings, we slaughter four bulls. We slaughter bulls when someone dies. If a man has many cattle, the family slaughters five or six or seven bulls when he dies.” When Loku was a boy, his father didn’t allow him to go to school,
In South Africa, young women engaging in heterosexual sex are most at risk for HIV. The 2012 National Antenatal Survey reported that nearly 30 percent of pregnant girls and women were HIV positive; mother-to-child transmission has declined significantly. Lindiwe, 23, believes she was infected with HIV when she was sexually assaulted as a child. After growing up with her grandmother, and then in an orphanage, she found stable housing and counseling at Nkosi’s Haven more than a year ago. “I’ve accepted that I am positive and there’s nothing I can do to change that,” she said. “The only way I can change it is by making people’s lives better, making them understand that you can actually live with this, as long as you accept it and drink your medication.”
for a week. I felt terrible. You just sit there and feel sorrowful. I was afraid I would never get married because they took all my cattle. As a man, if you don’t get married you really feel ashamed. You’re supposed to get married and have children. For a time, Loku went into farming. Then he got 20 cows from the marriage of his fourth sister, and started again. He married his first wife who is “hard-working and obedient” for 40 cows, his second for 40 cows and his third for 30 cows. “Now I have 500 cattle,” he smiles proudly.
Fear of disease
ROBYN DIXON/LOS ANGELES TIMES/TNS
Luko Loku, a South Sudanese cattle herder from the Mundari tribe, sits outside his one-room thatched home. but sent him to the cattle camp. As a boy, he and other herders speared a lion to death that was threatening their livestock. “I’m glad there are no lions left now,” he says, approvingly.
Harsh life The life of a cattle boy, even today, is extremely harsh. They spend their days walking naked with the cattle, often in broiling heat. They live at night in the cattle camp. They get no schooling. A small boy on the road to Terekeka conveys the hardship in his face: nursing a sickly lamb in his arms, he squints into the sun, as he walks along the road barefoot. In return for Loku’s years of sacrifice, he was given 35 cattle from his father when his younger sisters were married off. He gradually built up his herd to 180 beasts. He was ready to marry a girl called
Achan, after his father and her father agreed on a price after a long negotiation. “I loved her. When you love a girl you tell her. She was very funny, always laughing. She was tall and very beautiful.”
A setback Four days before Loku was due to send the cows to Achan’s father, gunfire rang out as he slept in the cattle camp with three other herders, guarding a 5,000-strong herd. “They had guns and we only had spears,” he recalls. “We had to hide, just to survive. I never saw my enemy. I didn’t even know who they were. But they took all the cattle.” With no cows to pay, the marriage fell through. “That was the worst thing that happened in my life,” he says. “I went into my house and I cried
South Sudan has as many cattle as people, more than 11 million, but the country’s civil war from 2013-15 forced herders to move their cattle far south into areas normally avoided because of the risk of disease. Several virulent cattle diseases, including hemorrhagic septicemia and East Coast fever, once rarely seen in South Sudan, have spread, according to Abdal Osman, cattle expert with the U.N.’s Food and Agriculture Organization. The threats Loku faces are terrifying but they only make him determined to gather more cattle to join Selimbe, Mamoro and the ever-bold Lewa. “I’ll take care of my 21 children,” he says. “I’m thinking to get richer. My only thought is to get more cattle, so that whatever I need, I can get very easily. “I need as many cows as possible. There’s no limit. When I come to see them, I just want there to be more and more and more. I want as many cattle as I can get.”
This story was reported with the support of a fellowship from the International Women’s Media Foundation.
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SEPTEMBER 2 – SEPTEMBER 8, 2016
HEALTH
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CAMILLE WEBER/MCCLATCHY NEWSPAPERS
BY SHARON THOMPSON MCCLATCHY NEWSPAPERS
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s a population, Americans are becoming more allergic, and scientists don’t know why. The incidence of food allergies has skyrocketed, doubling in the last 10 years. One in 25 Americans has a food allergy, and for children younger than 3, the ratio is 1 in 17. “All types of allergies are increasing,” said Anne Munoz-Furlong, the founder and CEO of the Food Allergy & Anaphylaxis Network. “We’re better at diagnosing food allergies.” A food allergy occurs when the body’s immune system mistakenly attacks the proteins in a particular food, releasing chemicals (histamines) that cause symptoms that can include hives or gastrointestinal or respiratory distress. Symptoms, whether mild or severe, occur quickly, within a few minutes to two hours of eating. In the most severe cases, they progress to anaphylaxis, a potentially fatal condition in which the allergic reaction overtakes the entire body, according to the Food Allergy & Anaphylaxis Network. “We’ve done such a good job eliminating childhood diseases that we grew up with that our immune systems are looking for something to do. We don’t understand why our immune system selects one food over another,” MunozFurlong said. Allergists say any food can cause an allergic reaction, but 90 percent of the time it’s one of the “big eight” foods — milk, eggs, wheat, soy, peanuts, tree nuts (almonds, cashews, pecans, pistachios, walnuts), shellfish (shrimp, crab, lobster) and fish (tuna, salmon, catfish). Years ago, doctors didn’t recognize food allergies as such and simply labeled children as “sickly” or said they had a weak stomach. Some health professionals think that food allergies
are increasing because we’re all exposed to more of the “big eight” allergens through processed foods. “As soon as you stray into the aisles of prepared and processed foods, life becomes much more complicated,” said Alice Sherwood, whose son is allergic to eggs and nuts. Sherwood wrote “Allergy-Free Cookbook” (DK Publishing, $25) because allergy-free food was something she couldn’t find when she needed it. Although there are 12 million Americans affected by food allergies, there aren’t many allergy-friendly products on the market, she said. For the cook, four of these food groups (gluten, eggs, nuts, dairy) are particularly difficult to avoid because they are used in so many dishes. Research shows that most people are allergic to only one or two foods. In her book, Sherwood chose to develop alternative versions of each recipe to cater to each of those four food allergens. Each recipe has versions that are free of gluten, dairy (milk), eggs or nuts. Children with food allergies, and their parents, always have to be on guard to prevent a reaction. “The best defense is education,” MunozFurlong said. “Learn what the symptoms are, and talk to your doctor and get a diagnosis. Make sure you read the ingredient label, and talk to anyone who is giving you food. Ask about the ingredients that are in that food. Accidents are never planned. Be ready when one occurs.” The Food Allergen Labeling and Consumer Protection Act, which went into effect in January 2006, requires food manufacturers to declare food allergens in plain language on their ingredient lists. For example, before the law was passed, milk could be listed on a label as “ammonium caseinate.” The only way to prevent an allergic reaction, Munoz-Furlong said, is by strictly avoiding the food.
Three great recipes for allergy sufferers CINNAMON, RAISIN AND APPLE MUFFINS (Egg- and nut-free) 2 cups all-purpose flour Pinch salt 1 tablespoon baking powder 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon 3 tablespoons soft brown sugar 3 tablespoons butter or margarine, melted 2 apples, unpeeled and grated 1/3 cup raisins 3/4 cup milk Raw sugar to sprinkle, optional Line 12 sections of a muffin pan with average-size paper muffin cups, or butter the pan well. Preheat the oven to 400 degrees. Sift flour, salt, baking powder and cinnamon into a bowl. Add the remaining ingredients, and mix well. You will have a thick, wet dough. Spoon into the muffin pan, filling each cup. Bake until risen, pale golden and firm, about 20 minutes. Transfer to a wire rack to cool. Makes 12 muffins. Dairy-free: Follow the recipe but substitute dairy-free spread for the
butter or ordinary margarine, and substitute soy, rice or oat milk for the cow’s milk. Gluten-free: Follow the recipe, but substitute gluten-free all-purpose flour for the ordinary flour, and make sure the baking powder is gluten-free too. Add an extra 4 tablespoons of milk. From “Allergy-Free Cookbook,” by Alice Sherwood ROASTED VEGETABLE ENCHILADAS 1 poblano pepper or green bell pepper 2 teaspoons extra-virgin olive oil 1 cup chopped yellow onion 3 cloves garlic, minced 1 teaspoon salt 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin 1/2 teaspoon chili powder 1/4 teaspoon paprika 1/8 teaspoon ground chipotle pepper 8 ounces tomatoes, roughly chopped, plus diced tomato for garnish 1 cup vegetable broth
1/2 cup packed fresh cilantro, coarsely chopped, plus leaves for garnish Filling: 3 bell peppers (1 each red, yellow and orange), diced 8 ounces cremini (baby portobello) mushrooms, diced 3/4 cup diced red onion 41/2 teaspoons extra-virgin olive oil 1/4 teaspoon salt Freshly ground pepper to taste 1 can (15 ounces) pinto beans, rinsed 12 (6-inch) corn tortillas Preheat oven to 425 degrees. To prepare sauce: Roast poblano (or bell) pepper directly over the flame of a gas burner, turning frequently with tongs, until evenly charred. (Alternatively, char under the broiler, turning once or twice, for 5 to 7 minutes total.) Transfer to a deep bowl, cover with plastic wrap, and set aside to steam for 10 minutes. Meanwhile, heat oil in a medium saucepan over medium heat. Add onion, garlic, salt, cumin, chili p owder, paprika and ground c hipotle (if using) and cook, stirring, until the vegetables have softened, about 5 minutes. Remove from the heat. Peel the pepper, discard the stem and seeds, and chop. Add to the saucepan along with chopped tomatoes, broth and cilantro. Return to medium heat and cook, uncovered, at a steady simmer,
What is a food allergy?
Who is at risk?
It is a condition in which the immune system incorrectly identifies a food protein as a threat and tries to protect the body by releasing chemicals into the blood. The release of these chemicals results in the symptoms of an allergic reaction.
Research suggests that having asthma in addition to a food allergy increases the risk of a severe reaction, and teens and young adults who have peanut or tree-nut a llergies in addition to asthma are at the highest risk. Facts • Approximately 6.9 million Americans are allergic to seafood, and 3.3 million are allergic to peanuts or tree nuts (reliable figures aren’t available for the other common food allergens). • About 3.1 million children in the U.S. have food allergies. Many of these children will outgrow their food allergies. • According to studies conducted by the Food Allergy & Anaphylaxis Network (FAAN), peanut allergies doubled in children between 1997 and 2002. • In the U.S., food is the leading cause of anaphylaxis outside the hospital setting. • There is presently no known cure for food allergies. • Even trace amounts of a food allergen can cause a reaction. And allergens don’t have to be ingested to cause a reaction; skin contact or inhalation also can trigger it. According to research conducted at Mt. Sinai hospital in New York, people should wait at least four hours after consuming a food allergen before kissing someone who is allergic to that food. • A FAAN review of food allergy fatalities found that most of the people had never had a severe allergic reaction until the one that caused their death. • Scientists don’t know why allergies are increasing. One theory holds that because children in our culture are exposed to fewer germs, the immune system, deprived of its customary full-time germfighting job, misidentifies certain foods as harmful. — Sally Dadisman, TNS
What are the symptoms? A reaction might begin with a tingling sensation, itching or a metallic taste in the mouth. Other symptoms can include hives, a sensation of warmth, wheezing or other difficulty breathing, coughing, swelling of the mouth and/or throat, vomiting, diarrhea, cramping, a drop in blood pressure and loss of consciousness. These symptoms might begin several minutes to two hours after exposure to the allergen, but life- threatening reactions can get worse over several hours.
What is anaphylaxis? Anaphylaxis is a serious a llergic reaction that occurs rapidly and can cause death. It can be caused by food but also by bee stings, drugs and latex. In the United States, food allergy is the leading cause of anaphylaxis outside the hospital setting and is responsible for an estimated 150 to 200 deaths and 30,000 emergency room visits a year. The symptoms of anaphylaxis can include any of those associated with an allergic reaction to food. Studies have shown that early administration of epinephrine (adrenaline) is crucial to successfully treating anaphylactic reactions. Epinephrine is available by prescription in a self-injectable device (EpiPen or Twinject). Source: The Food Allergy & Anaphylaxis Network
until the liquid has reduced slightly and the tomatoes have broken down, 10 to 15 minutes. Transfer to a blender and puree. (Use caution when pureeing hot liquids.) To prepare filling: While the sauce simmers, place bell peppers, mushrooms and onion in a single layer on a rimmed baking sheet. Drizzle with olive oil and sprinkle with salt and pepper. Roast, stirring halfway through, until the v egetables are tender and browned in spots, about 15 minutes total. Transfer to a large bowl, and stir in beans. Reduce oven temperature to 375 degrees. To prepare enchiladas: Spread 1/2 cup of the sauce in a 9-by-13-inch baking dish. Place a skillet over medium heat. Coat both sides of a tortilla with cooking spray. Heat in skillet for 5 to 10 seconds each side, adjusting the heat if the pan gets too hot. Spread 1/3 cup of the filling and 1 tablespoon of the sauce down the middle of the tortilla, and roll it up to enclose the filling. Place seamside down in the baking dish. Repeat with the remaining tortillas, filling and sauce. Spread the remaining sauce and filling over the enchiladas. Bake, uncovered, until hot, about 15 minutes. Serve garnished with diced fresh tomato and cilantro leaves, if desired. Makes 6 servings, 2 enchiladas each. Allergy note: Check labels of vegetable broth, spices and beans. Some brands might contain unexpected
allergens or gluten, which people with celiac disease can’t tolerate. From Eating Well magazine DAIRY FREE WHITE CHOCOLATE CHEESECAKE 16 ounces dairy free cream cheese (like Tofutti Better Than Cream Cheese) 3/4 cup melted mock white chocolate, or 1 cup dairy free white chocolate chips, melted 3/4 cup sugar 2 eggs, beaten Prepared graham cracker crust Preheat oven to 350 degrees. In a medium mixing bowl, beat cream cheese with hand-held mixer until smooth and creamy. Melt chocolate in microwaveable container. Watch closely so that water or other liquid is not introduced into the chocolate mixture, or it will ruin the recipe. Stir warmed chocolate until smooth and evenly melted. Be careful not to burn or overheat. Add sugar and eggs to the beaten cream cheese mixture, and mix well. Blend in melted chocolate until smooth and creamy. Transfer mixture into prepared graham cracker shell, and bake in 350-degree oven for 20 minutes, or until top appears set. Refrigerate for several hours b efore serving. From Food Allergy Kitchen, www. foodallergykitchen.com
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SEPTEMBER 2 – SEPTEMBER 8, 2016
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Hosting & toasting Quick and refreshing recipes to entertain without missing the party FROM FAMILY FEATURES
Whether you’re hosting a small weekend get-together, a large holiday gathering or anything in between, entertaining friends and family will always provide an opportunity to create memories that last a lifetime. However, no host wants to miss out on the highlights because of an endless to-do list in the kitchen. With the right recipes and refreshments, it’s easy to throw a successful, enjoyable dinner party for both you and your guests. One way to take the guesswork out of meal planning is by starting with the wine you’re planning to serve and working backwards. Chardonnay is a favorite varietal of many wine lovers, and Edna Valley Vineyard has crafted award-winning, food-friendly Chardonnay from California’s CHICKEN THIGHS AND TOMATOES Serves: 4 1 pint cherry tomatoes pepper kosher salt olive oil 4 chicken thighs (skin-on, bone-in) 1 cup white wine 1 clove garlic 1 lemon, juice only Heat oven to 400 F. In cast iron skillet, toss tomatoes with pinch of pepper, kosher salt and light drizzle of olive oil
central coast for more than 35 years. Featuring bright layers of white peach and apricot alongside notes of pineapple and brown spice, this white wine is a sure bet to complement a range of dishes and elevate any meal. One savory example that pairs perfectly with Chardonnay is Grilled Panzanella Salad – a quick and delicious dish that can serve a small group using a few basic ingredients and leftover bread. For a bright, decadent option that holds up well at room temperature, try a side of Orzo with Lemon, Brie and Toasted Pine Nuts. Last but not least, whip up this simple Chicken Thighs and Tomatoes recipe for a hearty entree to round out the meal and complement your wine selection. For more easy entertaining recipes and ideas, visit EdnaValleyVineyard.com.
and place in oven. Roast tomatoes for 20 minutes. Set aside. Heat skillet on stovetop. Once hot, sear chicken thighs. Flip chicken and sear bottom side for about 1 minute. Remove chicken from pan and set aside. With pan still hot, pour in white wine. Once wine has settled, add minced garlic. Add juice of one lemon. Return chicken thighs and tomatoes to skillet. Bake for 35-40 minutes.
ORZO WITH LEMON, BRIE AND TOASTED PINE NUTS Serves: 8 1 pound orzo pasta 1/4 cup extra-virgin olive oil, plus 1 tablespoon, divided 1 tablespoon lemon zest 3 tablespoons lemon juice 1/2 teaspoon minced garlic 1 wheel (10 ounces) Brie cheese, cut into 1/2-inch cubes 3/4 cup golden raisins 1/2 cup toasted pine nuts
1/4 cup fresh basil, chiffonade salt, to taste freshly ground black pepper, to taste Prepare pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Toss with 1 tablespoon olive oil to prevent sticking and allow to cool. In large bowl, toss pasta with remaining olive oil, lemon zest, lemon juice, garlic, Brie cubes, raisins, pine nuts and basil. Season with salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste. Garnish with additional basil, if desired.
GRILLED PANZANELLA SALAD Serves: 4-6 Salad 8 ounces day-old sourdough bread 2 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil kosher salt 1 clove garlic 1 cup roasted red bell peppers, sliced into 1/2-inch pieces 1 1/2 cups yellow grape tomatoes, halved 1/2 cup Nicoise or Kalamata olives, halved if large 1/4 cup chopped fresh basil
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1/4 cup grated Asiago cheese Balsamic Vinaigrette 1 1/2 tablespoons golden balsamic vinegar 1/4 teaspoon minced garlic 1/4 cup extra-virgin olive oil salt, to taste pepper, to taste Heat grill or grill pan to medium heat. For salad: Cut bread into 1-inch thick slices. Brush both sides with olive oil and season with salt. Grill bread on both sides until toasted and grill marks are present. When bread is cool enough
to handle, rub garlic clove on both sides. Cut into 1-inch cubes. In large bowl, combine bread, peppers, tomatoes, olives, basil and cheese. For balsamic vinaigrette: In small bowl, combine balsamic vinegar and garlic. Whisk in olive oil in slow stream until combined. Season with salt and pepper, to taste. Toss vinaigrette with salad and serve immediately. Garnish with additional fresh basil and grated cheese, if desired.