Florida Courier - October 11, 2013

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VOLUME 21 NO. 41

Page B1

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OCTOBER 11 - OCTOBER 16, 2013

STANDOFF As gridlock continues in Washington, the debt limit deadline approaches and veterans may take a hit.

COMPILED FROM STAFF REPORTS

run out of borrowing authority and be dependent on cash on hand and incoming revenues to pay the government’s bills.

The Obama administration has warned that the nation will be at risk of default at that point.

An analysis Tuesday by the Bipartisan Policy Center think tank projected that the U.S. would be unable to pay all its bills between Oct. 22 and Nov. 1, when a series of large payments are due.

WASHINGTON – The political standoff that has gummed up the government for nine days as of the Florida Courier’s press time late Wednesday night showed no sign of ending as Democratic leaders dug deeper into their position that they would not negotiate with Republicans leaders in the House until the government is reopened.

Even as the government is shut down, the nation gets clos- No change er to the Oct. 17 deadline set by House Minority Leader Nancy the Treasury Department for Pelosi, D-Calif., met with Speakraising the $16.7 trillion debt er John A. Boehner, R-Ohio, but limit.

See STANDOFF, Page A2 After that date, the U.S. will

OLIVIER DOULIERY/ABACA PRESS/MCT

President Obama spoke at a news conference on Tuesday following a talk with House Speaker John Boehner at the White House.

MIAMI BROWARD CARNIVAL 2013

Carnival ‘wines’ up in South Florida

‘Stand Your Ground’ law evaluated Change in state remains a long shot COMPILED FROM WIRE REPORTS

Prompted by a national outcry over George Zimmerman’s acquittal this summer in the shooting death of Trayvon Martin, a Florida Senate committee gave approval Tuesday to minor changes in the state’s “stand your ground” law.

But whether a Florida Legislature dominated by gun-loving lawmakers will ultimately sign off on a bipartisan compromise remains a long shot, despite a seemingly indifferent National Rifle Association.

Deal cut The law’s 2005 sponsor, Sen. David Simmons, defended the current law while conceding it could be better.

“It is an excellent commonsense law, but it is not perfect.

That’s coming from a person who was the main drafter of the ‘stand your ground’ law back in 2005,” Simmons, RAltamonte Springs, told the

Senate Judiciary Committee.

Simmons struck a deal with Senate Minority Leader Chris Smith, D-Fort Lauderdale, whose attempts to modify the law earlier this year went nowhere.

Florida’s current NRAbacked law, which became a model for the rest of the country, allows individuals to use deadly force when they feel their lives are in danger and provides immunity from prosecution or civil lawsuits.

The law, an expansion of the centuries-old “Castle Doctrine” that gives people the right to defend themselves with deadly force in their own homes, also removed the duty to retreat.

Full investigation Tuesday’s compromise (SB 130) would require law enforcement agencies to establish standards for Neighborhood Watch teams and require that police and sheriffs fully investigate cases in See LAW, Page A2

International shea butter convention set SPECIAL TO THE FLORIDA COURIER

CHARLES W. CHERRY II / FLORIDA COURIER

‘Sherrie’ shows off her finery at last year’s Miami Broward Carnival. This year’s event climaxes with steel pan band competitions, concerts, pageants and parades from Friday through Sunday night in both Miami-Dade and Broward counties.

SNAPSHOTS FLORIDA | A3

DJJ looking for help with deficit and civil citations

ALSO INSIDE

NATION | A6

Nairobi attack exposes flawed U.S. terror policies

Fans stand by Jacksons after verdict

FINEST | B5

Meet Sara

ATLANTA – The American Shea Butter Institute will kick off its 11th annual International Shea Butter Convention at the Atlanta Airport Westin Hotel from Oct. 24 - 26.

This three-day long event is the largest conference and exposition of its kind in the country and is solely dedicated to shea butter and its related products.

The theme of the event is “Creating International Business and Educational Opportunities for Grassroots Women in the SubSahara African Shea Belt.”

The ISBC provides opportunities for participants to network directly with shea consumers, product manufacturers, formulators, distributors, and processors; shea butter buyers, wholesalers, retailers and sellers; shea butter research sci-

entists, educators, and students; importers, exporters, and U.S. Custom brokers, as well as other leaders of the shea butter industry.

Shea producers from Senegal, Mali, Burkina Faso, Ivory Coast, Ghana, Togo, Nigeria, Cameroon and Chad will appear.

Neem oil, a sister commodity of the shea sector, will also be covered by international experts.

Attendees can train under seasoned experts to acquire a number of shea professional credentials in shea production, grade analysis, quality management, postextraction issues, custom product formulation, market penetration and business development. A section devoted exclusively to discussing African shea business opportunities will also be available. The convention will also include the 2013 ISBC Shea Product See SHEA, Page A2

COMMENTARY: CHARLES W. CHERRY II: RANDOM THOUGHTS OF A FREE BLACK MIND | A4 GUEST COMMENTARY: GWENDOLYN DUNCAN: HELP NEEDeD TO OPEN CIVIL RIGHTS MUSEUM | A5

FOCUS

A2

OCTOBER 11 – OCTOBER 17, 2013

Is FDOT the enemy of Florida’s Black businesses?

When Jennifer Carroll was Florida’s lieutenant governor, she arranged for me to meet with Florida Department of Transportation (FDOT) engineers to talk about lighting.

I had just gotten into the lightemitting diode (LED) business and wanted to sell FDOT LED streetlights to improve lighting on the Florida Turnpike and on other state roads.

My lights meet every FDOT LED standard including luminosity, color temperature, price and warranty. I even told FDOT engineers to compare my product with Sylvania, Cree, Westinghouse, General Electric and other lighting biggies.

After that meeting, you know what happened to Carroll. She quit – and the FDOT split! I never heard a single word from FDOT since.

Up in arms Today, many of Florida’s MBE (Minority Business Enterprise) and DBE (Disadvantaged Business Enterprise) owners are up in arms about the way FDOT is using “government magic” to keep qualified Black and other minority businesses from participating in purchasing contracts at the huge state agency with a budget of more than $9 billion.

What is FDOT doing about this entrepreneurial unrest?

press will be in some cities to report on what you said.

Lucius Gantt

Blacks disappointed Over 150 professionals attended a recent “listening session” in the Tampa FDOT District 7. African-American business owners at the meeting provided comments on their FDOT interaction, including disappointment with both the processes and the opportunities.

Two prominent African-American organizations provided detailed comments of the experiences of African-Americans dealing with FDOT. Paul Curtis, past public relations chair for Southeast Region 3 of the National Society of Black Engineers and current Transportation Research Board appointee on its DBE Committee, and Joe Robinson of the Tampa NAACP, provided extensive and captivating comments.

Paul Curtis said, “The agency’s failure to conduct an ethnic, race and gender disparity study for more than a decade, has injured African-American businesses and unjustly enriched other (Editor’s note: A disparity study involves a statistical analysis to determine if an agency has discriminated against minority and women-owned businesses. A study can be used to legally justify minority set-aside and affirmative action

THE GANTT REPORT

Well, FDOT doesn’t have much money to spend with Blacks, but they have a ton of dollars to spend setting up a series of “listening sessions” across the state so business people can tell FDOT what DOT already knows: that it is difficult or impossible to get a business contract from FDOT. In the two-month statewide series of listening sessions, every other week for two months, FDOT will hold public meetings to “gauge the success and concerns from small business owners” throughout Florida in five different locations across the State.

FDOT buys all kinds of stuff, just like other agencies. But they want you to think they only contract with road builders and bridge builders. Whatever they buy, there are some Black businesses that can sell it to them.

If you have something you can sell to FDOT, I encourage you to go to a session. You won’t get any business because FDOT will probably never send someone there that can immediately write a check or sign a purchase order.

However, you will be able to voice your opinion. The Black

programs and prevent the state from being sued for alleged reverse discrimination.)

Curtis also warned that a preliminary review demonstrates that FDOT may arbitrarily alter contractor selection criteria from project to project and from district to district.

“This affects the outcome of the vendor selections. This allows some firms to get repeat nobid contracts back-to-back. This is the exact opposite of what the federal law dealing with disadvantaged and minority businesses intended. I view this as the same thing as steering a certain contract to a certain firm. What FDOT is doing is the cousin of bid-rigging,” Curtis said.

White women win “The agency has long known American (White) women are being overutilized, perhaps at the expense of African-Americans, and a proper remedy is long past due,” according to NAACP representative and attorney Joe Robinson. “NAACP legal teams are working on this matter and an appropriate legal action is forthcoming.”

Robinson produced documentation in support of his complaints, including a recent Georgia disparity study and procurement reports from the FDOT. Robinson’s documents report-

edly demonstrated the dearth of African-American utilization and the federal rules from the Federal Highway Administration that demonstrate that Florida has the ability to solve specific underutilization problems without federal approval.

Certification a joke Even if you say you can compete with any company, FDOT will tell you since you’re Black, you have to register as a DBE and become certified. They will guarantee you have to register. But if you register, they’ll give you no guarantee that you’ll get a contract.

I could go on and on about FDOT, MBEs and DBEs and the highly paid directors of state MBE offices. But I won’t.

I encourage you to contact the FDOT and ask when the “listening session” is coming to a city near you. I know sessions will be coming up in Orlando, Jacksonville, Miami and in Tallassee.

Is the FDOT the MBEs’ economic enemy? Time will tell!

Buy Gantt’s latest book, “Beast Too: Dead Man Writing” is on Amazon.com and from bookstores everywhere.

Contact Lucius at www.allworldconsultants.net. “Like” The Gantt Report page on Facebook. Click on this story at www.flcourier.com to write your own response.

LAW from A1

CHARLES W. CHERRY II / FLORIDA COURIER

‘I’m staying with God because that’s all I’ve got’ Thousands mourned the death of Rev. Dr. Mack King Carter, beginning with a memorial service Wednesday in Miami-Dade.

Thursday’s homegoing service was changed to First Baptist Church of Fort Lauderdale to accommodate the large crowd expected to attend. A final service in Carter’s Ocala hometown is scheduled for Saturday, with a private burial following next week.

STANDOFF from A1 the 40-minute confab in Boehner’s office showed no signs of untangling the logjam.

Pelosi, in a statement, said Democrats had agreed to lower the budget figure to $986 billion, the Republicans’ baseline spending level, and begin a conference to delve into exactly where government spending would be cut. She said she had 200 House Democrats who would accept the cuts.

However, in exchange, Democrats want the Republicans to drop efforts to derail the Affordable Care Act. “We were disappointed the speaker did not take ‘yes’ for an answer,” Pelosi said. The No. 2 ranking House members from both parties, Eric Cantor, R-Va., and Steny H. Hoyer, D-Md., also were at the meeting.

Meetings scheduled President Obama and Vice President Joe Biden were scheduled to meet with House Democrats at the White House on Wednesday evening to talk about the shutdown debate.

Some Democrats hope the president will allay concerns that the White House may open up negotiations with Republicans that could include modifying the Affordable Care Act or giving in to Republican demands for Medicare and other entitlement cuts.

Republican House leaders were scheduled to meet with

which “stand your ground” is a factor, something Okaloosa County Sheriff Larry Ashley insists they already do.

The proposal also strengthens current language in the law barring individuals who are aggressors from using “stand your ground” as a defense.

And the bill would also do away with civil immunity in “stand your ground” cases in which innocent bystanders are injured or killed, a contentious point that prompted one “no” vote from Sen. John Thrasher, RSt. Augustine, chairman of the powerful Rules Committee. Simmons said later that he would be willing to remove that portion to ensure passage.

NRA Florida lobbyist Marion Hammer said the bill would do little to clear up concerns or confusion about the law. She said the NRA is neutral right now on the measure.

Uphill battle The measure faces an even fiercer battle in the House, where Criminal Justice Subcommittee Chairman Matt Gaetz plans to hold a hearing next month on “stand your ground” at the behest of House Speaker Will Weatherford, R-Wesley Chapel.

But Simmons and Smith said they hoped Tuesday’s actions would “send a message” to the House that Democrats and Republicans can work together.

Obama at the White House on Thursday. Obama invited the entire House Republican caucus, but the Republicans decided that their leaders would represent them.

Vets may suffer Meanwhile, the Veterans Administration chief says millions of the country’s veterans could see their compensation payments halt if the political stalemate over the federal budget keeps parts of the government shuttered into late October.

Testifying at a House Veterans’ Affairs Committee hearing, Veterans Affairs Secretary Eric Shinseki, the head of the Department of Veterans Affairs, told Congress that the department’s backup funds will be depleted by the end of the month, leaving about 5.18 million veterans and their families without checks come November.

“Unless I can provide mandatory funding, to make the account solvent again, (on) Nov. 1 I will not send checks out,” Shinseki told the panel, adding that the checks total more than $6 billion in disability, compensation and pension payments.

Articulating the effects on VA services for the first time since the shutdown, Shinseki said that the department’s supply of backup funds was dwindling with halts in government funding.

Staff furloughs have reversed recent progress in processing backlogged disability claims, funds to back G.I. Bill education checks are fast depleting, and the department, Shinseki said, didn’t have time to prepare.

FLORIDA COURIER FILES

Tracy Martin and Sybrina Fulton, Trayvon Martin’s parents, attended the George Zimmerman trial.

Several members of the “Dream Defenders,” a group that held a 30-day sit-in outside Scott’s Capitol office after the Zimmerman verdict, spoke against the measure, citing studies that showed minorities are more likely to be charged with a crime when the victim is White.

“Rather than make our communities safer, this law forced us to meet force with force,” Elijah Armstrong, a member of the organization and a Florida A&M University graduate student, said. “ ‘Stand your ground’ laws make it more dangerous for a Black person to walk down the street.”

‘First step’ In a statement, Benjamin Crump, the attorney representing Trayvon

“We looked at all the options,” he said, referring to the shutdown. “This is not one I believed would happen.”

Med centers open Despite questions over payments, VA hospitals, clinics and centers will remain fully functioning because of appropriations approved in March, save for one joint health services venture with the U.S. Navy in North Chicago. Statements from President Obama in the days leading up to the shutdown had suggested otherwise, when he said a budget standoff in Congress would leave veterans support centers unstaffed.

A resolution continues to be stymied by Capitol Hill’s partisan politics, with several committee members blaming their Senate counterparts for holding onto a House of Representatives bill that would fully fund veterans’ services despite the shutdown.

But Shinseki testified that the bill would be only a temporary solution, as several of the VA’s federal partners would remain hostage to the budget stalemate.

The Department of Labor, he said, helps with veteran employment, and the Internal Revenue Service is integral to processing compensation checks.

“I don’t do that independently,” he said.

GOP ‘gimmicks’ At the White House, Carney decried the House-passed veterans benefits measure as part of a “piecemeal approach” that he labeled “gimmickry” and “irresponsible.”

“The way to fix all these problems is not to notice one in the press and then fix it, a day, a week, two weeks or a month after people have been suffering the consequences of shutdown,” Carney said. “The way to do it is to open the government.”

“What is best for veterans, and for all of us right now, is a budget for the entire federal government,” Shinseki said. “Let us get back to work. The sooner we do it, the faster we get back to full speed.”

‘Raise debt limit’ The U.S. needs to get “its act together” and raise the debt limit before a default derails the nation’s recovery and damages the world economy, a top International Monetary Fund official said Wednesday.

Short-term interest rates have risen in recent days, reflecting concerns that the fiscal standoff in Washington has not been resolved, said Jose Vinals, the director of the IMF’s monetary and capital markets department.

“This is something that would have very serious consequences through financial markets and the rest of the world,” Vinals told reporters during the annual meeting of the IMF and World Bank.

“So it is completely of the essence that the U.S. political machinery gets its act together and ends this impasse,” he said.

Ali Watkins of the McClatchy Washington Bureau and Jim Puzzanghera of the Los Angeles Times (MCT) contributed to this report.

Martin’s family, said the bill was “an important first step.

Sybrina Fulton, Trayvon’s mother, said, “Tracy (Martin, Trayvon’s father) and I have said from the beginning that our hope is that the tragedy of Trayvon’s death can be turned into real change so that other parents don’t have to experience the grief we have endured.

“The work here is not done and we fear an uphill battle going forward to achieve real change in our son’s name. We encourage everyone to visit changefortrayvon.com and help us ensure that real change for Trayvon occurs in Florida and other states across the country.”

Dara Kam of the News Service of Florida contributed to this report.

SHEA from A1 Competition and Awards, exhibitors offering a variety of shea products, and entertainment.

Participants can witness the authentic and advanced African technology of the shea butter-making process, demonstrated by representatives of a women-owned shea butter co-op located in the heart of Africa’s shea growing belt. Traditionally, the process occurs exclusively in Africa.

The American Shea Butter Institute (ASBI) provides consumer and industry education on shea butter; establishes voluntary standards on the quality of shea butter entering the U.S.; and promotes the benefits of shea butter in U.S. industries. ASBI’s goal is to stimulate the international shea butter value chain, drive discoveries that raise the awareness of shea butter as a commodity, and enrich multilateral trading opportunities.

Partial scholarships and blogger passes are available.

For more info on the convention, log onto www.isbc2013. com. For info on shea products, go to www.sheainstitute. com; www.facebook.com/ sheainstitute; call (706) 6824982; e-mail info@sheainstitute.com.

OCTOBER 11 – OCTOBER 17, 2013

A3

FLORIDA

Ruling on juvenile detention impacts budget DJJ looking to Legislature for help with deficit and civil citations

BY MARGIE MENZEL THE NEWS SERVICE OF FLORIDA

TALLAHASSEE – Two recent decisions blew a $54.5-million hole in the budget of the Florida Department of Juvenile Justice, Secretary Wansley Walters told a Senate committee on Monday.

The first was a June 2013 ruling by the First District Court of Appeal in Tallahassee, agreeing with Florida’s 67 counties that DJJ should pay for juveniles’ “pre-dispositional” detention – that is, the costs associated with juveniles waiting for their cases to be resolved in court and those charged with probation violations.

Walters told the Senate Criminal Justice Committee that due to the ruling, DJJ’s share of pre-dispositional detention costs had soared from 27 percent to 68 percent – an additional $35.5 million for this fiscal year, with a rise to $39.3 milWansley lion expectWalters ed next year.

The counties’ share has dropped accordingly, from 73 percent to 32 percent.

Numerous lawsuits Three counties are running their own juvenile detention centers, and before the ruling, more had been considering it. One with its own juvenile facility, Polk County, is fighting a lawsuit by the Southern Poverty Law Center for using

BETHANY MOLLENKOF/LOS ANGELES TIMES/MCT

Shown above is an arrival at a girls detention center in Santa Clarita, Calif. Florida’s Wansley Walters is pushing to expand civil citations, a method of sanctioning juveniles for a non-violent first offense rather than putting them behind bars. pepper spray on teens, and Polk County Sheriff Grady Judd, now president of the Florida Sheriffs Association, has strongly defended the practice.

Sen. Chris Smith, D-Fort Lauderdale, asked Walters if DJJ was planning to appeal the ruling on detention costs.

“With that particular case, the next step would be the Supreme Court,” Walters said, adding that Gov. Rick Scott’s office had encouraged her to work things out with the counties instead – “because there are numerous other lawsuits pending behind this, and I think that we need to get out of the litigation and really start to craft a plan to support the detention centers.”

Medicaid shortfall Smith asked how negotiations with the counties were going.

“At this point, I believe everyone has come to the recognition that we have to work this out,” Walters replied.

DJJ’s budget took a second hit, also in June, when the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services discontinued Medicaid funding for youth in non-secure residential facilities. The Agency for Health Care Administration estimates the fiscal impact to DJJ to be $19 million for 2013-2014.

Walters proposed a plan to make up much of the shortfall, but asked lawmakers for help with the $19 million hole from the Medicaid decision. She emphasized that DJJ’s deficit plan

is “done in concert with the Legislature’s juvenile justice policies and intent.”

Cost-effective program Yet to be determined is whether civil citations, which have expanded during Walters’ tenure at DJJ, are part of the Legislature’s intent.

Walters said Monday that her agency’s push to expand civil citations – a method of sanctioning juveniles for a non-violent first offense rather than putting them behind bars – had spread from 17 to 51 counties.

Before Walters was tapped as DJJ secretary in 2011, she pioneered civil citations in Miami-Dade County and has said they produced a 60 percent re-

duction in arrests at public schools.

She told lawmakers that the deeper a juvenile goes into the justice system, the likelier that he or she will break the law and be detained again. In 2010-2011, for instance, juveniles who received civil citations had a 7 percent recidivism rate, compared to 41 percent of those in residential detention.

Walters pointed to civil citations as a cost-effective way to achieve better outcomes for teens.

High incarceration rate But Senate Criminal Justice Chairman Greg Evers, a Crestview Republican, said that while he had once favored mandatory civil citations in every county,

he’d been advised that the only way they could succeed was in collaboration with prosecutors and law enforcement agencies.

“Shoving it down their throat was not going to enhance the program and make it work better,” he said.

Last session a bill (SB 660/HB 603) that would have required law enforcement officers to issue civil citations to first-time misdemeanants instead of arresting them never got a hearing in either chamber.

It was opposed by the Florida Sheriffs Association.

Florida incarcerates more youth per capita than any of the 10 most populous states. Last year more than 58,000 were arrested – a rate 40 percent higher than the national average.

Justices consider cell phone tracking by cops

BY JIM SAUNDERS THE NEWS SERVICE OF FLORIDA

TALLAHASSEE – Grappling with privacy rights amid fast-changing technology, the Florida Supreme Court on Monday heard arguments in a challenge to police using “real-time” cell-phone information to track a suspect in a drug case.

Justices pointed to courts across the country trying to sort out how far police can go in using technology that adds to old-school techniques such as wiretaps.

“Everyone’s struggling – including us,’’ Justice Barbara Pariente said during an exchange with one of the attorneys in Monday’s case. “Everyone’s struggling.”

MARJIE LAMBERT/MIAMI HERALD/MCT

Livia Ribeiro gives a tour of the Launch Control Center at NASA’s Kennedy Space Center. Visit Florida has estimated that the state had 91.4 million visitors last year, of which 77.6 million were domestic visitors. The overall total was a 4.1 million increase from 2011.

Visit Florida: Maintaining state funding key to reaching goal of 100 million tourists

BY JIM TURNER THE NEWS SERVICE OF FLORIDA

TALLAHASSEE – Backed by record state funding and spending on marketing, Florida might top 100 million visitors this year.

The growth in visitors would mean a boost to jobs and Florida’s economy, the state’s top tourism official said.

Now it’s up to the governor and state lawmakers to decide if the higher numbers are worthwhile as a new budget process gets under way.

Paying off Will Seccombe, president and CEO of Visit Florida, said Monday after addressing the Senate Commerce and Tourism Committee that it’s too early to toss around funding figures for next year.

But at the same time, Seccombe said the current level of funding is starting to pay off.

“There is a point of diminishing returns in marketing, but we’re not there yet,” Seccombe said. “The worst thing that could happen is to get this momentum and then go back. We’ve

got to make sure we maintain what we’ve got.”

The Legislature approved a $9.5 million increase in Visit Florida funding during the 2013 session, upping the annual allocation to $63.5 million.

The money is in addition to $110.9 million in private contributions to Visit Florida.

Of the money, $156.4 million goes into marketing. Staffing and general costs come to about $5.1 million.

The rest goes to meetings, events, Welcome Center operations and industry relations.

91.4 million last year Seccombe didn’t directly address funding levels for next year as he gave an overview of the state’s tourismarm to the committee.

The increase in state funding came before Gov. Rick Scott set a goal this summer for the state to attract 100 million visitors.

Scott had actually proposed a larger funding increase, pitching a $75 million number before the 2013 session.

Visit Florida has estimated that the state had 91.4 million visitors last year, of which 77.6 million were domestic visitors. The overall total was a 4.1 million increase from 2011.

Increase in ad markets At the halfway mark this year, the pace was a little under 100 million, with Florida attracting an estimated 49.6 million in the first six months of 2013, according to Visit Florida.

The 2012 visitors spent about $67.2 billion, generating 23 percent of the state’s sales-tax revenue, according to a Florida TaxWatch study that suggested the additional money would be needed to reach the 100 million benchmark.

To try to reach Scott’s visitor goal, the state has been marketing itself as a year-round destination rather than just a warm-weather winter playground.

Also, while focusing on attracting more people from traditional locales – New York, Boston, Atlanta and Chicago – ads are being increased in markets west of the Mississippi and overseas.

‘Historical cell site’ The case stems from the 2007 arrest in Broward County of Shawn Tracey, who was later found guilty on cocaine-possession and other charges, including fleeing and eluding police.

In lower courts, Tracey’s attorneys argued unsuccessfully that evidence should be suppressed because of law officers using cell-phone technology to track his movements across the state.

Broward County detectives received a warrant to obtain information about Tracey’s cell-phone usage, including “historical cell site” information that would help show the locations of his calls. But a key question in the case is whether that allowed police to conduct what is described as “real time” tracking of Tracey in a red GMC Envoy – eventually leading to a search that discovered a kilogram brick of cocaine underneath a spare tire, according to a brief filed in the case.

Expectation of privacy?

Tracey, 30, is imprisoned at the Wakulla Correctional Institution Annex, south of Tallahassee.

Tatjana Ostapoff, an assistant public defender who represented Tracey, said he had a reasonable expectation of privacy and that the warrant didn’t contemplate tracking his movements as they occurred. She contended that the tracking violates the Fourth Amendment to the U.S. Constitution, which bars unreasonable searches and seizures.

“There is no court order that justifies what was done in this case,’’ Ostapoff said.

But Melynda Melear, an assistant attorney general, said Tracey had voluntarily conveyed information to the cell-phone company, MetroPCS, and that he did not have an expectation of privacy. Also, she said the information met the definition of “historical” because the cell-phone company received the information first before relaying it.

EDITORIAL

A4

OCTOBER 11 – OCTOBER 17, 2013

Let’s eradicate discrepancy between Black, White entrepreneurship “Your time is limited, so don’t waste it living someone else’s life.

Don’t be trapped by dogma – WILLIAM which is living with the results of REED other people’s thinking. Don’t let the noise of other’s opinions drown BUSINESS EXCHANGE out your own inner voice. And most important, have the courage to folcommunities. low your heart and intuition.”

American Blacks must cultivate – Steve Jobs an entrepreneurial spirit indepenWhen you were growing up, dent of politics and who occupies were the conversations at your the White House. The low historhouse centered on concepts about ical rate of African-American enbusiness, or more along the line of trepreneurship is a well-known “go get a job?” fact. The 100-year-old, discrepEntrepreneurship is not a sub- ancy between Black and White ject that is discussed regularly entrepreneurship levels could be around the dinner table in Afri- eradicated within a few generacan-American homes. There’s a tions if more African-Americans lack of business traditions among embraced and practiced entreAfrican-Americans and a paltry re- preneurship. cord of entrepreneurial successes.

Smaller probabilities of having self-employed parents, demo- Make a profit Capitalism is the social system graphic trends and discrimination are primary reasons for the lim- under which the American econited level of entrepreneurship in omy operates. Under this struccontemporary African-American ture, the means for producing and

distributing goods (the land, factories, technology, transport system etc.) are owned by a small minority of people with a motive to make a profit.

Ninety-nine times out of 100, Blacks patronize merchants that are from outside of our race. Entrepreneurs drive America’s economy and account for the majority of our nation’s new job creation and innovations.

America’s 25.8 million small businesses employ more than 50 percent of the private workforce, generate more than half of the nation’s gross domestic product, and are the principal source of new jobs in the U.S. economy.

Assume risk An entrepreneur is a person who organizes, operates, and assumes the risk for a business venture. Although forms of business ownership vary by jurisdiction, several common forms exist: A sole proprietorship is a business

VISUAL VIEWPOINT: CONGRESSIONAL APPROVAL

RICK MCKEE, THE AUGUSTA CHRONICLE

Random thoughts of a free Black mind, v. 189 Dr. Mack King Carter (2) – I am a James Brown fan who drove almost nonstop from Fort Lauderdale to Augusta, Ga. for the Godfather’s rocking homegoing service in 2006. (I wrote about the experience for the Florida Courier.)

The similarities between James Brown and Dr. Mack King Carter are numerous, if one looks close enough. Both grew up as young boys in the segregated South. Both had serious work ethics.

JB played “chitlin circuit” concerts up and down the East Coast; listen to “Night Train” or “Mind Power” and you’ll get an itinerary of JB concert venues. Mack Carter would preach or speak at Sunday services, Bible study, banquets, reunions, or conferences. For sermons, he’d generally write them down, memorize them, then deliver them without notes, and usually holding his small Bible in hand.

Both were authentic men who were proud to be Black, and who blazed their own individual paths. Rev. Al Sharpton once told me that French music fans love James Brown because “he was real. He wasn’t a crossover.” The same could be said for Mack Carter, who prided him-

quick takes from #2: straight, no chaser

Charles W. Cherry II, Esq. PUBLISHER

self as being part of the Black radical prophetic tradition, “crazy Negroes” (Mack’s words) in the pulpit like Bro. Prez’s former pastor, the Rev. Jeremiah Wright.

Folks here are expressing their love for “Doc” much as they did for JB: same gold casket, similar musical performances, same laughter, love and appreciation – and the same ambitious “funeralizing” travel schedule. Just like I travelled for JB, I’ll travel for Mack King Carter to Miami, Fort Lauderdale, Ocala and back for the last mile of the way. If there’s a heaven – and I hope there is – no doubt he's singing, “Thank ya, thank ya…”

Contact me at ccherry2@gmail.com; holler at me at www.facebook.com/ ccherry2; follow me on Twitter @ccherry2.

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

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owned by one person for-profit.

A partnership is a business owned by two or more people.

The three typical classifications of for-profit partnerships are general partnerships, limited partnerships, and limited liability partnerships. A corporation is a limited liability business that has a separate legal personality from its members.

New challenges Starting a business is a lot of work. The hours are long, sacrifices are great and you are confronted with new problems and challenges every day. The nature of being an entrepreneur means that you fully embrace uncertainty and are comfortable following your heart and intuition. Those who succeed do so because of their unwavering belief in the endeavor they have initiated.

What are you leaving your children? More Black parents need to be in a position that they can

“leave the business” to their children. If we concentrated and worked hard, the 100-year-old discrepancy between Black and White entrepreneurship levels that many call “racist” could be eradicated. More of us must embrace “Black Capitalism” to build wealth through the ownership and development of businesses.

Prominent Black Capitalists include: Booker T. Washington, who was an early leader at the Tuskegee Institute, Marcus Garvey and the Universal Negro Improvement Association, Elijah Muhammad and the Nation of Islam.

Robert Reed Church, a wealthy African-American, founded the nation’s first Black-owned bank in 1906, Solvent Savings.

William Reed is publisher of “Who’s Who in Black Corporate America” and available for projects via the BaileyGroup. org. Click on this story at www. flcourier.com to write your own response.

Real lesson of ‘Green Eggs and Ham’ America just celebrated the 50th anniversary of Dr. King’s great “I Have a Dream” speech. Everyone says that they “love” Dr. King (now), but the media did notice that no top Republican Party leaders attended any of the main anniversary events.

Maybe it was this line of Dr. King’s that they don’t like: “I have a dream that one day, down in Alabama, with its vicious racists, with its governor having his lips dripping with the words of interposition and nullification…”

What is nullification? It’s one of the last-ditch philosophical stands of the slaveholders, the historically disreputable — and thoroughly discredited — concept that a state could “nullify” a federal law by declaring it null and void.

The idea of the Slave Power was that the Southern states would “interpose” themselves between the national government and the slaveholders, and prevent our laws from being enforced.

The concept was most famously expounded by South Carolina Sen. John C. Calhoun almost two centuries ago. It has been struck down repeatedly by the courts and was never accepted outside the Confederacy.

Since it was used mainly to protect slavery in the South, it eventually helped lead to a horrible Civil War, and eventually the idea was totally discredited. But we forgot to drive a stake through its heart. The idea has never completely died away and keeps creeping into our politics in dangerous forms.

Now we see it raising its

omy, the same one they

Rev. drove into the ditch with Jesse L. their deregulated free marJackson, ket fantasies five years ago.

Sr. TRICEEDNEYWIRE.COM

ugly head in the battle to block Obamacare, risking the economy of the whole country, as Republicans in Washington act at the beck and call of the one-quarter of America that calls itself the Tea Party. We’re not talking the Boston Tea Party here. We’re talking the Fort Sumter Tea Party.

Lack of leadership Unfortunately, due to John Boehner’s lack of leadership in the House, the tea party minority faction now dictates policy and rhetoric to the entire GOP. This means that the GOP continues to try to delegitimize, defund and delay Obamacare.

They have spent the last five years trying to keep poor and working Americans from getting health care. This is wrong, it’s immoral, and it’s very undemocratic, since Barack Obama was re-elected by a large margin.

But as I write this, the GOP has taken our nation to the brink of disaster, holding our economy hostage to extort the Senate and the president to defund or delay Obamacare. The GOP is holding our hospitals hostage.

They’re holding our universities hostage. They’re holding the Smithsonian Museum, Grand Canyon National Park, the baby panda cam at the National Zoo hostage — along with our slowly recovering econ-

Stop nullification

Don’t let them get away with it, President Obama, Sen. Reid. Don’t let them nullify Obamacare. Don’t let them shut down our fragile economy. I can’t end this column without making one more point.

During his filibuster, Tea Party favorite Sen. Ted Cruz (R-Texas) read from the Dr. Seuss classic “Green Eggs and Ham.” Now, I know a bit about “Green Eggs and Ham.” Some readers are no doubt old enough to remember the night I read this great story on the air, during a “Saturday Night Live” skit.

(Look it up; it’s a funny bit!)

I know the story of “Green Eggs and Ham.” But Sen. Cruz must not.

Apparently, he doesn’t understand that the story is about a loud, stubborn character who rejects something based entirely on looks, without even trying it. When he’s finally convinced to taste it, he discovers, much to his surprise, that he likes it.

In the book, the dish on the table is “Green Eggs and Ham.” In America today, the issue on the table is Obamacare. Maybe the Republicans should let people try the new health care law before they hold the economy hostage in an attempt to nullify it.

Rev. Jesse Jackson Sr. is president/CEO of the Rainbow/PUSH Coalition. Click on this story at www.flcourier.com to write your own response.

The shutdown game The government shutdown battle is more like a Civil War reenactment than the real thing. A face-saving bargain will soon be struck, returning furloughed federal employees to their jobs at wages that have been frozen for the past two years – not by the Republicans, but on President Obama’s orders.

The clock has been stuck with both hands on “austerity” since Obama came fully out of the closet as a GOP fellow-traveler following the 2010 midterm elections.

From that moment on, Republican-imposed gridlock has been the only barrier to Obama’s long-sought “Grand Bargain” to eviscerate entitlement programs.

When the current theatrics are over, Obamacare will remain intact and the president will be back on his ever-rightward stride.

The GOP will take Obama up on his offer, earlier this year, to cut Social Security and will probably be offered other bits and pieces of the social safety net in the interest of “shared sacrifice” and domestic peace.

In the interim, while the reenactors haul their cannons around the cow pas-

GLEN FORD BLACK AGENDA REPORT

ture, waiting for the rich people who call themselves “markets” to signal an end to the charade, rest assured that national security is sacrosanct.

Primary directive Protection of property being the prime directive of both wings of the Corporate Party, democracy will remain in shutdown mode in Detroit and all of Michigan’s largely Black cities, whatever happens on Capitol Hill.

The markets are hungry to devour the nation’s pension funds, and have chosen Black locales to perfect the model, secure in the knowledge that nobody of consequence will raise a finger to stop them from filching the nest-eggs of the undeserving classes.

The disenfranchisement of Detroit under the iron rule of a corporate lawyer is simply another form of “shared sacrifice” necessi-

tated by austerity – which is why the Obama administration challenges voter ID cards in North Carolina but does not deploy the Justice Department to re-enfranchise the majority of Blacks in the state of Michigan, whose votes have been rendered worthless.

Detroit’s ability to borrow money – or, in this case, to be stripped of every asset of value for the benefit of Wall Street bankers – trumps citizenship rights, every time.

For the sake of the almighty dollar (blessed be its name) – and because the shutdown has already achieved its purposes – the GOP will call a halt to its action before any moneychangers get hurt.

The Republicans will have shown their willingness to fight Obama. Obama will appear to be defending the people from The Republicans. And then they will both slash away at social spending, as was the intention, all along.

Glen Ford is executive editor of the Black Agenda Report. Click on this story at www.flcourier.com to write your own response.

OCTOBER 11 – OCTOBER 17, 2013

EDITORIAL

Why is U.S. killing people in Somalia “Does al Shabab Pose a Threat on American Soil?” So read a headline in the New York Times’ blog, Room for Debate.

Despite its name, Room for Debate rarely shows any true differences of opinion on whatever issue of the day is considered significant to the Times’ editors.

None of the supposed debaters on this topic actually addressed the central issue of al-Shabaab’s existence and what it says about the United States behavior around the world. A better question would be why the United States turned Somalia into a ruin and why does it keep killing people there.

MARGARET KIMBERLEY BLACK AGENDA REPORT

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VISUAL VIEWPOINT: AD BLOCK

the victims of American violence.

They remain unseen and therefore unknown.

Various forms of media are now accessible to every person at any time of day or night, but we must hunt to see images of Iraqi, Afghan, Somali, Yemeni, Libyan, Palestinian, Haitian, and Syrian victims of American and American sponsored violence. Because they have been disappeared the American public are kept in a bubble of ignorance without knowing the role that their government plays in creating bloodshed.

from turmoil and humanitarian disaster.

They don’t know that Kenya was enlisted in this occupation in 2011 and also gained the enmity of the al-Shabaab resistance.

They don’t know that the United States government prevented food from reaching starving people. They don’t know that the socalled pirates in Somalia are fight- Bloody victims When we do see the victims lying in vain to keep European naViolence up close tions from stealing even the fish ing bloody in a Nairobi shopping Sometimes we get the oppor- they need to survive. mall we obviously feel sadness tunity to see violence up close as about their fates and perhaps anin the recent al-Shabaab attack ger at the perpetrators. Seeing Resisting aggression on the Westgate shopping mall in people killed who were merely enAl-Shabaab is dedicated to reNairobi, Kenya. But in the absence gaged in the mundane activities of of good reporting, scenes of car- sisting American aggression and life is terribly tragic. to punishing anyone who assists nage tell us nothing. Thanks to liIt would be enlightening and no ar presidents and their partners in in that process. There is nothing less tragic to see the images and mysterious about this group’s mothe corporate media, Americans hear the stories of people who know nothing about Kenya or its tives. They are fighting their opwere going about their daily busipressors be they in the United role as American partner in keepness when suddenly death struck ing Somalia in a constant state of States or Kenya. them because of the American Of course we are shown pictures war.

Americans don’t know that of murder victims at the Westgate empire. their government instigated an mall in Kenya and hear the word Ethiopian invasion of Somalia in al-Shabaab linked to their deaths. Propaganda promoted When we need hard facts we get 2006 which destroyed that nation It is justifiable to show that sufand prevented it from emerging fering but the media never show propaganda instead. Hollywood

Bill Schorr, Cagle Cartoons

is using Somalia again as its backdrop for grotesque stories of exceptionalism and supremacy. A new film, “Captain Phillips,’’ tells the story of one brave American who with the help of overwhelming fire power and Navy SEALS overcame three Somalians in a life boat.

It is doubtful that the Somalian side of the story will be told. One unlucky Somalian young man, Abduwali Abdukhadir Muse, received a 33-year-prison sentence when he chose to surrender instead of fighting the world’s only super power.

The truth is that our government bears responsibility for the loss of life at the Kenyan mall and for attacks on American vessels. Americans may live in ignorance but the rest of the world knows better. The United States first brought death to Somalia and is responsible for creating even more of it.

Margaret Kimberley can be reached via e-mail at Margaret.

Kimberley@BlackAgendaReport.com. Click on this story at www.daytonatimes.com to write your own response.

Help needed to open Civil Rights Museum in St. Augustine The Anniversary to Commemorate the Civil Rights Demonstrations, Inc. (ACCORD) is joining forces with the Civil Rights Museum of St. Augustine, Inc. to bring to fruition a Civil Rights Museum at the Rudcarlie Building located at 79 Bridge Street in St. Augustine.

Until the building is brought up to standards for the museum, the building will be the headquarters for both organizations in their fundraising efforts with displays set up to share some of the stories of the Unsung heroes and sheroes of the 1960s Civil Rights Movement.

ACCORD’s mission is remembering, recognizing and honoring all those who risked their lives to attain civil rights for all and celebrate St. Augustine’s pivotal role in the passage of the landmark Civil Rights Act of 1964.

Samuel White and Willie Carl Singleton were two of the “St. Au-

GWENDOLYN DUNCAN GUEST COLUMNIST

gustine Four” – teens who were arrested for peaceful protests in St. Augustine during the 1963 Civil Rights Movement led by Dr. Robert B. Haying. Dr. Martin Luther King hailed the “St. Augustine Four” as heroes. This story should be shared with the world.

Rena Ayers will turn 109 years old on Oct. 10. She is a resident at Bayview Health Care Center in St. Augustine. We have a Freedom Trail Marker at her house at 120 DeHaven St. She is known as the “Housemother to the Civil Rights Movement” because she housed many civil rights activists and attorneys who defended them in the courts

in her home.

The Rudcarlie Building, the future location of the museum, was built in the 1950s by Dr. Rudolph N. Gordon (1901-1959) and named for the members of his family – Rudolph, Carlotta and Rosalie. It was the first medical/dental office constructed in St. Augustine without racially segregated waiting rooms.

After Dr. Gordon’s death, the office was rented to Dr. Robert B. Hayling, a dentist who became a prominent leader of the civil rights movement in St. Augustine. Many of the planning sessions for the movement were held there, with Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. and others.

Lawyers who came to support the civil rights efforts made this building their headquarters as well.

Dr. Gordon’s widow, Mrs. Rosalie Gordon-Mills (1907-2004) made history in 1965 when she became the first Black woman in 400

Marcus, Medgar, Malcolm, Martin and Maynard My 20 years as a columnist for the Black Press would not be complete without an article about five persons whom I hold in high esteem, five persons from whom I have learned about sacrifice, commitment, dedication, honor, and character; and five persons who hold a special place in most if not all of our hearts and minds. They are Marcus, Medgar, Malcolm, Martin and Maynard. No last names necessary, right?

Although I have many lesser known brothers and sisters that I deeply admire and respect, I chose these five for two reasons: Virtually all of my readers know about them and their accomplishments; and these particular men, collectively, represent the basic characteristics and ideals I have written about for years. Not to slight the sisters, I could have also chosen Mary McLeod Bethune, Harriet Tubman, or Barbara Jordan.

JAMES CLINGMAN NNPA COLUMNIST

tractors. Garvey died at 53.

Medgar Evers

Medgar Evers, an unrelenting fighter for civil rights in Mississippi, exuded bravery.

Despite the daily threats to his life, he continued to stand up for his people until that fateful night in 1963 when he was shot down in front of his home with his precious children and loving wife, Myrlie, nearby. What strength! What resolve! What love! Knowing his life and that of his family were always in jeopardy, he did what was right in the face of constant danger.

Evers displayed grace under fire like no other. Assassinated at the young age of 38, he will always hold a place in our history for his work, his Marcus Garvey example, and his love for his Marcus Garvey, whose ac- people. complishments of rallying over 6 million people, rais- Malcolm X ing some $10 million, and Malcolm, a pit bull, was starting business enterpris- bold and tenacious. His name es along the way, was a Black connotes strong will and purman who strongly believed pose. Unafraid, open-mindin and practiced economic ed, highly intelligent, resoempowerment for Africans lute, and much more, Malin America. colm dedicated precious Garvey personified years of his life, of course to strength, commitment, fear- his family, but also to edulessness, and most of all, love cating and demonstrating to for Black people Listen to his the world, and Black people passionate words on Black- in particular, that we should onomics.com – Videos). He move beyond mere rhetowas highly intelligent and al- ric, that Black folks should ways undeterred by his de- “get real” and do what must

be done to secure an economic future. He was right, of course. Also assassinated, he was 39.

Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. Martin. The Energizer Bunny. My words pale in comparison to what has been said about his life, his oratorical wizardry, his willingness to call out politicians – even Presidents, and the spiritual motivation that drove him to go into the lion’s den, to face hate-filled adversaries, to respond to fellow ministers who felt he was getting out of his place, to defy the odds of racist and prejudiced southern towns. At 39 years of age, he too was felled by an assassin’s bullet.

Maynard Jackson Maynard Jackson, consummate politician. He was a Black Mayor who had the courage to stand up to the status quo, and win. I came up with my own saying to describe him: “If we don’t get ours, you don’t get yours!”

His stance on the construction of the Hartsfield Airport set the tone for economic inclusion in this country.

Maynard was also a friend of mine. He was in law school at North Carolina College and I was a freshman.

Jim Clingman is an adjunct professor at the University of Cincinnati and can be reached through his website, blackonomics. com. Click on this story at www.daytonatimes.com to write your own response.

years to seek public office in St. Augustine, as a candidate for the City Commission.

The Civil Rights Museum Committee was first formed by ACCORD a few years ago under my leadership. The project was thought to be too big for ACCORD to handle considering all the other community projects ACCORD was involved with. Thus, the Civil Rights Museum of St. Augustine, Inc. was formed with Richard P. Burton, a National Board Member for the NAACP and J.T. Johnson, an SCLC activist as chairmen.

With the struggling economy and other opposing forces, the project’s fundraising efforts were hindered.

With the committed support of volunteers from the Northrop Grumman Corporation and the owners of the building, Attorney and Dr. Theodore and Carlotta Miles of Washington, D.C., the project is again in full swing.

“Spruce Up” of the building will begin shortly. Fundraising efforts to renovate the building for the museum will be ongoing. Individuals, businesses, or organizations may adopt a room for $3,000, which will display the name(s) of each donor(s) on a plaque in their respective room.

For a donation of $10,000 or more, donors will receive a life membership plaque at the entranceway. Anyone wishing to volunteer or donate to this project is asked to call Lorraine McLaughlin at 904-217-7999.

Gwendolyn Duncan is president emeritus of the Anniversary to Commemorate the Civil Rights Demonstrations, Inc., a non-profit group of volunteers envisioned in December 2002, organized in February 2003, and incorporated in 2004 out of St. Augustine. Click on this story at www.daytonatimes.com to write your own response.

Women of the Civil Rights Movement Last week, I attended yet another funeral of an important civil rights figure.

Generally, when we say that, we’re talking about a man. This time, I am talking about a woman who was the spouse of a very important civil rights figure, but this figure is a woman who was referred to in the celebration as “General” — which means she, too, was in charge of something important.

Hundreds of people turned out at the Martin Luther King, Jr. International Chapel at Morehouse College for the Celebration of Life of Evelyn Gibson Lowery. While she was the spouse of Dr. Joseph E. Lowery, she was a woman worthy of honor not only for what she endured as the spouse of a civil rights icon, but also for what she did to make ours a better world.

The Cascade United Methodist Church Mass Choir, Jennifer Holliday and Cassandra Davis provided great music, but I was especially moved by the tribute in song paid Mrs. Lowery by her three daughters — Yvonne Lowery Kennedy, Karen Gale Lowery and Cheryl Jo Lowery as their voices rang out with “Total Praise,” which was followed by Bishop Woodie White’s masterful sermon.

Worthy of honor Mrs. Lowery worked in the Civil Rights Movement by her husband’s side, but she did more. She highlighted the contributions of women in the Movement who often went unnoticed. When her husband was elected to head the Southern Christian Leadership Conference (SCLC), she began concentrating on the often-unnoticed contributions of women in the Movement.

Being passionate about the issues greatly impacting women and children, in 1979, Mrs. Lowery brought together a group of women and gave birth to SCLC/W.O.M.E.N. (Women’s Organizational Movement for Equality Now). She remained its National Con-

Dr. E. Faye Williams, Esq. TRICE EDNEY WIRE

vener from its inception until the time of her death. She started the first national conference on “The Survival of the Black Family.”

In 1980, she added a national conference for youth. In 1981, she added a golf tournament and both events served as fundraisers for the programs of SCLC/W.O.M.E.N, Inc. Mrs. Lowery believed in the recognition of others and thus created the Drum Major for Justice Awards Banquet.

She was so concerned about recognition of others that she led in erecting at least 13 monuments along the civil rights trail – and was in the process of developing the 14th monument in Montgomery, Ala., to honor Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr.

Great mentor She addressed issues of AIDS/HIV education, GED and computer training, mentoring girls, and Christmas parties for children and seniors. Because she personally invited me to work with her on some of her programs, I’m very much aware of the work she did on voter education, registration and get-outthe- vote efforts.

Just as she arranged for young people to learn their history on civil rights tours, so we must continue to preserve our history by highlighting women like Evelyn G. Lowery.

Dr. E. Faye Williams is National Chair of the National Congress of Black Women, Inc. She can be reached at www.nationalcongressbw.org.

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OCTOBER 11 – OCTOBER 17, 2013

Fans stand by Jacksons after verdict Decision in AEG Live trial sparks anger, more questions LOS ANGELES TIMES (MCT)

For the dedicated Michael Jackson fans who came to the trial day after day, the singer still could do little wrong.

They wore T-shirts expressing their love for the singer and their support for his aged mother.

One fan even brought a bouquet of red roses to give Katherine Jackson and her attorneys.

So when the judge announced on Oct. 2 that jurors had decided AEG Live was not responsible for Jackson’s death, they weren’t just stunned, they were angry. They didn’t understand how a five-month trial that seemed to expose the concert promoter as caring little about the singer’s well-being could end this way.

“My heart is broken,” said Barbara de L’Orme, 42. “This was the greatest artist that we ever had, and they treated him like this. The evidence was right there.”

Emotional case When Marvin Putnam, AEG Live’s lead attorney, stood in front of the scrum of TV cameras, microphones and notebooks, fans could be heard shouting, “Michael Jackson! Michael Jackson!”

Putnam told reporters AEG never considered settling the case, which could have cost it hundreds of millions — ALLEN J. SCHABEN/LOS ANGELES TIMES/MCT if not billions — of dolMichael Jackson fan Vincent Woods holds up a photo of Jackson and a glove behind lars in damages if a jury jurors as they answered reporters’ questions about their verdict in the Michael Jackson had voted the other way. wrongful-death case in Los Angeles on Oct. 2.

“They wouldn’t allow

themselves to be shaken down,” he said.

The attorney said that he didn’t think the case should have gone to trial and that the judge should have dismissed it early on. He admitted the verdict was an emotional one for him, and some people in the courtroom said they saw a tear slide down his cheek.

Shawn Trell, AEG Live’s general counsel, was asked if the concert promoter and producer would negotiate a deal with a doctor again if an entertainer made such a request. “I think that answer is self-evident,” he said.

Jurors speak Several jurors explained how they answered “no” to the question on the verdict form that asked whether Conrad Murray, the doctor who gave Jackson the fatal dose of the anesthetic propofol, was “unfit or incompetent to perform the work for which he was hired.”

Once they came to that conclusion, there was no need to answer the remaining 14 questions.

Their work was done.

Gregg Barden, the jury foreman, said the verdict was not a vindication of Murray, who will soon be released from jail, where he is serving a sentence for involuntary manslaughter.

“Conrad Murray had a license; he graduated from an accredited college,” Barden said.

Then he added, “It doesn’t mean we thought he was ethical.”

Juror Kevin Smith, 61, said he loved Jackson’s music and his dancing.

Still, he voted against the pop star’s mother and three children.

“Murray,” he said, “was fit and competent for the job he was hired for ... Michael Jackson thought he was competent enough.”

‘Minds were changed’ He said AEG executives had tried to persuade Jackson not to bring Murray, who was supposed to be paid $150,000 a month, on tour with him. “Michael Jackson was very used to getting his own way. ... If anybody said no, he would find somebody else,” Smith said.

Barden said that when jurors were handed the case after closing arguments, the first time they could talk about the case after spending five months listening to testimony, they spent several hours “letting off steam and talking about things.”

They took three or four votes to answer the first question, “Did AEG Live hire Dr. Conrad Murray?” before agreeing unanimously that it had.

“Minds were changed,” Barden said. Some people felt that Murray was hired by both Jackson and AEG, he said.

On the second question, about whether Murray was incompetent, there was confusion when the court clerk polled jurors on their votes. However, after a couple of tries, they appeared to have taken a unanimous stand.

But outside the courthouse, Barden told a different story. He said jurors had started out 12-0 but finally came up with a 10-2 tally. Jurors in a civil case only need to vote 9-3, as opposed to the unanimous count needed in a criminal case.

Nairobi attack exposes flawed U.S. terror policies

BY RAMY SROUR TRICE EDNEY NEWS WIRE

In the aftermath of the worst terror attack in East Africa in three years, foreign policy scholars here are urging the U.S. government to rethink its counter-terror policy in the region.

Many are suggesting that the Somali Al Shabab militant organization, reportedly linked to Al-Qaeda, may be stronger and better organized than previously thought.

James Jennings, president of the humanitarian aid group Conscience International, commented: “The terrorist attack at Nairobi’s Westgate shopping centre was evidently a retaliation by Al Shabab for the Kenyan military presence in Somalia since October 2011, and a deliberate signal that they are still a force to be reckoned with.”

“It represents a continuation of the violence that has swirled throughout East Africa in the wake of the disintegration of Somalia, a war now increasingly being exported across the region’s borders.”

Reasons for attacks Vanda Felbab-Brown, an expert on non-traditional security threats at the Brookings Institution, observed: “Current U.S. counter-terror strategy in the region has focused primarily on targeted attacks against Al Shabab, while it should have addressed the structural causes of their radicalization,” High unemployment, a weak Somali economy and widespread corruption as the main reasons behind the radicalization of youths that have joined Al Shabab, she said. U.S. counter-terror efforts have devoted little or no attention to these issues.

The U.S. government delivered a total of $445 million in security aid to Somalia between 2008 and 2011, almost 50 percent of total U.S. aid to the country during that period. What seems to be missing from the U.S. strategy, FelbabBrown says, is “a real effort to improve the Somali economy and urge the government to foster a broader political inclusion of these youth.’’

ZHANG CHEN/XINHUA VIA ZUMA PRESS/MCT

This story is special People that were inside the Westgate Mall at the time of the attack are escorted out on Sept. 21, in Nairobi, to the Trice Edney News Kenya. A gun battle inside the shopping center left several people dead after gunmen attacked one of the city’s most exclusive malls.

Wire from GIN.

President of Howard University resigns Ribeau to retire from position he’s held for five years TRICE EDNEY NEWS WIRE

Howard University President Sidney Ribeau announced Oct. 1 he will retire from his post in December after five years on the job.

He is stepping down abruptly, after a three-day meeting of the board of trustees that included

intense discussions, campus insiders said, about management and finances at one of the dominant institutions among historically Black colleges and universities.

In a letter sent to students, faculty, administrators and supporters Ribeau, a communications scholar, said that the time had come for him to move on, noting construction of a new academic building and several residence halls.

“Serving as the president of Howard University was the op-

portunity of a lifetime. In nearly 150 years, only 16 people have had this privilege. It is one I will always treasure. Again, I would like to thank the entire community for supporting me, for extending a collegial spirit and for helping us to expand and renew the Capstone.”

Drop in funding Ribeau came to Howard from Bowling Green State University in 2008 following the resignation of H. Patrick Swygert who had been the Howard president

since 1995. Ribeau had served as the Bowling Green State University president for 13 years. Once at Howard he emphasized fields such as science, technology, engineering and math over majors such as fashion merchandizing.

The university’s Board of TrustDr. Sidney ees has appointed Ribeau Wayne A.I. Frederick, 42, Howard’s interim president. Frederick had previously been Howard’s provost since June 2012.

Ribeau is a Detroit native and

holds master’s and doctoral degrees in interpersonal communication from the University of Illinois, Urbana-Champaign.

During his presidency student enrollment declined, but rose this year as reflected by the registration of the second largest freshman class in Howard history. The school also experienced a drop in federal funding as a result of sequestration, and a slide in the U.S. News’ annual ranking of the nation’s colleges.

This story is special to the Trice Edney News Wire from the Afro American Newspaper.

HEALTH FOOD || HEALTH TRAVEL | |MONEY SCIENCE | BOOKS | MOVIES | TV | AUTOS LIFE | FAITH | EVENTS | CLASSIFIEDS | ENTERTAINMENT | SPORTS | FOOD COURIER

IFE/FAITH

Florida Classic returns Nov. 23 See page B2

October 11 - October 17, 2013

SHARING BLACK LIFE, STATEWIDE

SHARING BLACK LIFE, STATEWIDE

Cancer Society leader discusses progress made See page B3

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www.flcourier.com

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TOJ

PHOTOS BY JOHN REEVES/B-CU

Dr. Edison Jackson and his wife, Florence, will be celebrating 50 years of marriage on Oct. 19, a few days after his inauguration as Bethune-Cookman University’s sixth president.

Meet Bethune-Cookman’s

new first family Dr. Edison Jackson and his wife, Mrs. Florence Jackson, discuss their lives and roles just days before B-CU’s presidential inauguration.

BY JAMES HARPER FLORIDA COURIER

F

lorence Jackson has no problem with being known as the woman who stands by her man.

The new first lady of BethuneCookman University even admits that her husband, Dr. Edison Jackson, who will be installed as the school’s sixth president on Oct. 16, is the head of their family.

“He earned that. I didn’t just give it to him. We grew together.

He was not dictatorial,” she said in an interview with her husband during which it became obvious that she is a long way from being a traditional wife.

Mrs. Jackson adds that she will not be a traditional first lady of the historical Black university as well. And that suits her husband just fine.

Married 50 years The couple sat down with the Florida Courier this week to talk about their plans for B-CU. Dr. and Mrs. Jackson will be celebrating their 50th wedding anniversary on Oct. 19, three day after he officially takes over the reins of a college founded 109 years ago by Dr. Mary McLeod Bethune.

Mrs. Jackson first met her husband in their hometown of Heathsville, Va. They were in the first grade together and her mother was their teacher.

They would eventually become childhood sweethearts, attending the same church, singing in the choir together and playing in the high school band. Both would go on to different colleges and they ended up getting married two years before they graduated.

Mrs. Jackson was a business major and her first job would be as a high school teacher in New Jersey where they eventually settled. Soon, Dr. Jackson would get a job in Compton, Calif., and as most wives did in those days, she would pack their things and on they went with their two children.

INAUGURATION EVENTS Dr. Edison Jackson will officially become Bethune Cookman University’s sixth president Wednesday, Oct. 16, during a 1:30 p.m. inauguration ceremony at BCU’s Performing Arts Center.

It’s open to the public.

An Inaugural Symposium at B-CU’s Heyn Chapel is Tuesday, Oct. 15 from 2 to 4 p.m. It’s also open to the public. The moderator is Dr. Julianne Malveaux, also a former president of Bennett College.

Panelists will include other college presidents: Dr. Carlton E. Brown, Clark Atlanta University; Dr. Cheryl Davenport Dozier, Savannah State University; Dr. Wendy B. Libby, Stetson University; along with Dr. Michael L. Lomax, president and CEO, UNCF. For a complete list of inauguration activities, visit www.cookman.edu.

From Compton to New York In 1985, Dr. Jackson would become president of his first college while in California at Compton Community College.

By 1989 they would be packing their bags once again, headed back East where he had been offered the position of president of Medgar Evers College in New

York City. He would hold that position until he decided to retire in 2009.

While Dr. Jackson served as president at both these colleges, Mrs. Jackson continued to have her own life. In addition to raising their children, she also maintained a full-time job in academia for 34 years until she retired. Their daughter Eulaynea Jackson Brooks is a superintendent of schools while son Terrence Jackson is a computer engineer.

Dr. Jackson said the wife of the president at the colleges he headed weren’t expected to be involved in university business as is done at many Black colleges.

“Most of the spouses worked (at different jobs). We were not traditional,” he said.

‘Interim’ position opens up After retiring from Medgar Evers, the Jacksons moved back to Heathsville.

Though she was enjoying their retirement, Mrs. Jackson noticed that her husband was not adjusting as well and wasn’t surprised when he told her he had been offered an interim position as president of B-CU. “I learned early the need to be flexible. We had to move several times,” she said, adding she was fine with the move as long as it was an “interim” position.

“I was involved with Deltas (Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc.). I was very busy. He was getting restless. I was not shocked,” she continued.

Dr. Jackson officially became interim president of B-CU on May 13, 2012.

“Obviously, that didn’t work out,” Mrs. Jackson remarked.

Permanent offer Once again she was approached by her husband and told that he had been offered a permanent position.

“I was hesitant. People I have met here (in Daytona Beach) have been cordial,” Mrs. Jackson said noting she gave in to her husband especially after he told

Dr. Edison Jackson leads the Bethune-Cookman Wildcats football team with help of head football coach Brian Jenkins and security chief Melvin Williams. her he would only hold the position for four years.

“I see myself in a supportive role. I’m one of his strongest supporters. He knows I’m always there for him. He can always come home no matter what,” Mrs. Jackson continued.

As far as her role at B-CU, Mrs. Jackson said, “I’m flexible. When things open up. I’ll address them at that time.’’

Plenty of public service Along with Delta Sigma Theta, Mrs. Jackson has been active in the Links service organization.

She currently volunteers at B-CU’s library two days a week and told the librarians to put her to work wherever they needed her.

Mrs. Jackson said she enjoys going to different functions and volunteering, but doesn’t plan to be on the speaking circuit.

If asked, she’ll help to organize events and work for different causes. But as far as speaking in front of an audience, it just not her thing.

Jackson expressed how proud he was of his wife during the interview in which her sophistication and class were evident.

Concerned about young men Like his wife, Dr. Jackson was at ease as he shared his plans for the university for the remaining three years of his contract.

“The university has many assets. We will use the assets not only to transform the university, but the community,” he said.

“Mary McLeod Bethune saw a need. She went about business of solving the needs for the school and in the community.

We don’t need to be seen as a citadel, he said.

Jackson said a major issue that needs to be addressed in the community is helping young men go back to school, especially young fathers.

“There is a pocket of young men aged out of the school system. We need to help them get back in the mainstream society – say to these young brothers there is hope,” he said.

Adopted elementary school in Daytona Jackson also said he plans to address issues facing Black women as well in the community.

Please see JACKSON, Page B3

CALENDAR

B2

OCTOBER 11 – OCTOBER 17, 2013

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Florida Classic weekend kicks off Nov. 22 with career expo

Bethune-Cookman Wildcats and the Rattlers of Florida A&M will take to the field again on Nov. 23.

FLORIDA COMMUNITY CALENDAR

The Florida Blue Florida Classic football game, featuring the Florida A&M University Rattlers and the BethuneCookman University Wildcats, happens Saturday, Nov. 23, at 2 p.m. in Orlando’s Florida Citrus Bowl Stadium. Billed as the nation’s largest HBCU rivalry, the game will be televised live nationally on ESPN Classic.

This year’s Florida Blue Florida Classic features an exciting weekend of activities surrounding the game. In addition to the on-field showdown between the Rattler and Wildcat football teams, the weekend will once again feature the FAMU Marching 100 meeting the B-CU Marching Wildcats in the McDonalds Halftime Show.

“The Florida Blue Florida Classic is one of the most highly-anticipated games in HBCU football every year,” said Lynn Thompson, Director of Athletics, Bethune-Cookman. “We are excited to welcome back the Marching 100 alongside the Marching Wildcats.”

Classic schedule The weekend activities be-

gin Friday, Nov. 22. The schedule is as follows: • Florida Blue Florida Classic Career Expo and Diversity Job Fair, 11 a.m. to 3 p.m., Amway Center • Florida Classic Consortium Kickoff Luncheon presented

by Florida Blue. Doors open at noon for 12:30 p.m. program at the Rosen Centre • Florida Blue Battle of the Bands, 7 p.m., Amway Center “Our team is thrilled to be back in Orlando for another exciting Florida Classic,” said Michael Smith, Director of Athletics, Florida A&M. “This is something FAMU looks forward to year after year. It will be another thrilling Classic.”

On game day, the pregame FanFare begins at 9 a.m. on Tinker Field adjacent to the Florida Citrus Bowl Stadium.

Tickets to the game start at $15 and are available through Ticketmaster.com.

For more information on the game and tickets to all Florida Blue Florida Classic weekend events, visit www.floridaclassic.org.

TAMRON HALL AND TOURE

MSNBC hosts Tamron Hall, Touré and Joy Reid will be the guests on Oct. 18 at the Urban League of Palm County’s Youth Empowerment Luncheon from 11:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. at the Palm Beach County Convention Center. More information: 561-833-1461 ext. 3002 or email kalvarado@ulpbc.org.

Gainesville: The University of Florida Association of Black Alumni’s “Gator Nation Celebrating Dreams Fulfilled” this weekend. A Gator Pioneer Award event is scheduled Oct. 11. More information: http://aba. ufalumni.ufl.edu.

Orlando: The 10th annual Onyx Awards, hosted by Stephon Vann, takes place Oct. 26 at the Rosen Centre Hotel, 9840 International Drive.

Honorees include Congresswoman Corrine Brown. More information: www.onyxawards.com.

PHILLIP AGNEW

Dream Defenders Executive Director Phillip Agnew will be the featured speaker at the Tampa Bay Association of Black Journalists’ Griot Drum Awards & Scholarship Banquet at 7 p.m. on Oct. 12 at Nielsen, 501 Brooker Creek Blvd.

Renowned artist Gale Fulton Ross also will be a guest at the event.

More information: www. tbabj.com.

Fort Pierce: A free lecture on Oct. 12 by Minister Akbar Abdul Muhammad, International Representative of Minister Louis Farrakhan and the Nation of Islam is titled “Justice or Else: The Murder of James Anderson and the Attack on Black America.” The event is at 6:30 p.m. at the St. Marks Missionary Baptist Church, 921 Orange Ave. More details: Call Dr. Vibert White at 407-484-5673.

Apopka: Psychologist and author Dr. Robin Smith along with fitness expert Donna Richardson will be the guests at the “Take Back Your Life” Mind, Body and Soul Women’s Retreat Oct. 12 at Rejoice in the Lord Ministries. More information: www.tbyl.net.

Clearwater: John Legend and Tamar Braxton are scheduled at Ruth Eckerd

Hall on Nov. 4.

St. Petersburg: Tickets are on sale now for Rick Ross at The Mahaffey Theater on Nov. 22.

St. Petersburg: Stephen “Ragga’’ Marley will perform Oct. 17 at Jannus Live.

Orlando: Soulbird will present a SongVersation with India.

Arie on Oct. 11 at the House of Blues Orlando and Oct. 17 at the Florida Theatre Jacksonville.

ter, 6635 Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. St. N. First visit free; $6 each following visit. More information: 727-893-7756.

St. Petersburg: Youths ages 7 to 11 can enjoy a night of football, kickball, ping-pong, foosball, video games and dance parties during “Freestyle Fridays” at the Fossil Park and Willis S. Johns Cen-

St. Petersburg: First Fridays are held in downtown St. Petersburg at 250 Central Ave. between Second and Third Avenues from 5:30 p.m.10:30 p.m. More information: 727-393-3597.

Miami: Carol Jazzar, recognized as a rising star thanks to the notoriety of her home/ garage gallery, transports the work of six of her artists to ArtCenter/South Florida this month for their first-ever popup show with a gallery - On Location: Carol Jazzar Contemporary Art. More information is available at 305-6748278 and artcentersf.org.

Miami: A concert with Drake, Miguel and Future is set for Nov. 5 at the AmericanAirlines Arena.

Fort Lauderdale: Live jazz, blues, pop and everything in between along Hollywood’s signature 2.5 mile Boardwalk is every Friday of every month. More information: 954-924-2980.

McBride’s ‘Good Lord Bird’ a saucy, suspenseful, poignant and powerful novel DR GLENN C. ALTSCHULER SPECIAL TO THE FLORIDA COURIER

In the late 1850s, Henry Shackelford, the narrator of “The Good Lord Bird,’’ James McBride’s new novel, finds himself working in a brothel in “Bleeding Kansas,” the territory torn apart by the struggle over slavery.

The 12-year old slave overhears a conversation between the proprietor and three of her customers. “I’d trust my slave with my life,” one of them says. Within weeks, Henry James tells us, that slave McBride drew a knife on his master.

“Like most things in life,” Henry realizes, “you don’t know nothing till you want to know it, and you don’t see what you don’t want to see, but all that talk about slavery was drawing water for something, and not long after, I found out.”

A reluctant member of the abolitionist “army” of John Brown, who thinks “the Onion” is a girl and his good luck charm, Henry

participates in the raid on Harpers Ferry, a catalyst of the Civil War.

the formation of individual identity.

“Lying come natural to all Negroes during slave time, for no man or woman in bondage ever prospered stating their true thoughts to the boss,” the Onion emphasizes.

Infuriating references “The Good Lord Bird’’ is loosely based on history.

McBride’s portraits of John Brown (“his cheese had slid off his biscuit”), Harriet Tubman (the formidable “General” of the Underground Railroad), and, especially, of African-American abolitionist Frederick Douglass (he had become a “man of parlor talk, of silk shirts and fine hats, linen suits and ties,” who imbibed too many highballs and ogled too many women), are likely to infuriate readers in search of biographical exactitude.

His use of 20th-century idiomatic expressions – “ain’t worth squat,” “big time,” “mojo,” “everybody and his brother,” “don’t know you from Adam” – detracts at times from the narrative.

Nonetheless, the novel is a tour de force that is, by turns, rousing and rollicking, saucy and suspenseful, poignant and powerful.

An accomplished musician, the author of a memoir (“The Color of Water’’) and two previ-

Blacks and ‘trickeration’

Review The Good Lord Bird: A Novel. By James McBride. Riverhead Books.

417 pp. $27.95

ous works on fiction (“Miracle at St. Anna’’ and “Song Yet Sung’’), McBride illuminates the past in “The Good Lord Bird’’ and sheds light on the myriad ways in which slavery and racism undermined

Often, the lack of respect Whites had for Blacks subjected them to “trickeration.” Having thought through “every possibility without being seen,” slaves could make sure their lies matched what their masters wanted to hear. “When you in bondage and aiming on getting out,” he writes, “you make deals.

You do what you got to do. You turn on who you got to. And if the fish flips out the bucket and on you and jumps back in the lake, well, that’s too bad.”

Most importantly, “Henrietta” learns that living a lie takes its toll because nobody, yourself included, “knows who you are inside.”

Despite and because of Henry’s all-too-human character defects, conventional wisdom about the impact of slavery (and all forms of oppression) acquires an emotional as well as an in-

tellectual potency in “The Good Lord Bird.’’ Treated like a thing, “a dog or a shovel or a horse,” the needs and wants of a slave “got no track,” Henry points out, “whether you is a girl or a boy, a woman or a man, or shy or fat, or don’t eat biscuits or can’t suffer the change of weather easily.”

And the lesson he learns takes on a universal significance. “You can play one part in life,” Henry declares, “but you can’t be that thing.” He had been a Negro, playing a part: “Hiding. Smiling.

Pretending bondage is okay till they’re free.”

He now knew that “you is everything you are in this life at every moment.” That if you aren’t your own self, you cannot be free. That thought, he confesses, “pressed on my heart like a vice.

Just mashed me down.” And before he or anyone else knew it, Henry Shackelford “was up the road and gone.”

Dr. Glenn C. Altschuler is the Thomas and Dorothy Litwin Professor of American Studies at Cornell University. He wrote this review for the Florida Courier.

STOJ

OCTOBER 11 – OCTOBER 17, 2013

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HEALTH

Much progress in fight against cancer Doctors, researchers reflect prevention and treatment over past decades

BY JUSTINE MCDANIEL MCCLATCHY WASHINGTON BUREAU (MCT)

WASHINGTON — When U.S. Surgeon General Luther Terry released a groundbreaking report in 1964 linking smoking to cancer, the disease was a whispered word — and a likely death sentence.

In the decades since, researchers and doctors have worked to stamp out the many diseases known as cancer. And today, the fight against cancer stands at a place of unprecedented progress, with research yielding new drugs, more knowledge about cancercausing genes, better prevention and improved public awareness.

Dr. Otis W. Brawley, chief medical officer for the American Cancer Society, estimates that more than 1 million American cancer deaths have been averted over the last 20 years.

In “1991 ... a lot of things that we learned about canDr. Otis cer actuBrawley ally started kicking in,” Brawley said. “It takes a long time to apply them, and then once you start applying them, you finally, finally ... get to a point where things start getting better.”

This year, the society is celebrating its 100th anniversary. It was founded in 1913 by a team of New York businessmen and doctors and has since become the largest non-governmental source of cancer research funding. It also provides patient support and focuses on public awareness.

Lower risk Researchers and physicians such as Brawley have watched in recent years as care has become increasingly personalized and highly targeted. Today, the risk of death from cancer is 20 percent lower than it was 20 years ago, according to society figures.

Certain cancers have seen even greater declines in death rates: There has been a 39 percent decline in colorectal cancer death rates, a 34 percent decline for breast cancer and a 20 percent decline for lung cancer, Brawley said.

Progress has occurred on all fronts, including disease prevention, detection strategies, surgery, radiation therapy and systemic treatments, according to Dr. William Nelson, director of the Baltimore-based

MANDI WRIGHT/DETROIT FREE PRESS/MCT

Sue Burgamy, a 5-year breast cancer survivor, cries with joy at the end of the 2012 Susan G. Komen 3-Day at Ford World Headquarters in Dearborn, Mich., on Aug. 19, 2012. Burgamy was the final walker. Large-scale fundraising events like Relay for Life and the Susan G. Komen Race for the Cure bring cancer to the public eye.

Sidney Kimmel Comprehensive Cancer Center at Johns Hopkins.

More pinpointed treatments For progress to continue, innovation like this cannot be stifled by policy change, said Andy Hill, a Republican state senator in Washington’s 45th District, just east of Seattle, who was diagnosed with lung cancer in 2009 at age 46.

“My hope is that when my kids are 50, 60, 70, and they’re diagnosed with cancer, they do a test and take a pill to vanquish it,” he said.

Given recent advances, Hill’s vision seems increasingly possible.

According to researchers, new knowledge about what goes wrong in cells and the study of specific genes is creating more pinpointed treatments. Further, the development of anti-cancer drugs has taken off and become more cost effective, making it easier to get new drugs approved, Nelson said.

“As we have defined the processes that are involved in a cell becoming cancerous, we’ve actually started redefining cancer,” Brawley said. “We’ve gone from a 19th-century definition

of cancer to a 21st-century” one.

“That will help us finetune our treatments even further,” he added.

Understanding the genes Under this new definition, a patient’s specific type of cancer will be less important than which gene causes it. Doctors can identify the genes that are “acting up” and use targeted drugs to block their activity, Brawley said. Some such drugs are already being successfully used.

Chronic myeloid leukemia, breast cancer and prostate cancer are among the diseases that have responded well to these genetargeting treatments, said Dr. Ruben A. Mesa, deputy director of the Mayo Clinic Cancer Center and chair of the division of hematology and medical oncology at the Mayo Clinic Arizona in suburban Phoenix.

“Really, it is a tremendous era of trying to individualize cancer care,” Mesa said. “We’re at the beginning of the new wave.”

Hill, the Washington state senator, was among the first patients to ride that wave. After his cancer spread to both lungs and his lymph nodes, Hill found a trial drug called

JACKSON from B1 One project Jackson is proud of is the university’s adoption of Turie T. Small Elementary, a predominately Black school in Daytona Beach.

With a new K-16 initiative, Jackson said students from B-CU will serve as tutors at the school to help improve the success of the students.

Dual enrollment Jackson said the university also is offering dual enrollment for high school students who want to earn college credits at the same time.

“It’s all about using our assets to better the community – reaching out, blending town and gown,” he noted.

Jackson considers B-CU an economic engine in the city and believes it can help change the lives of those who live there.

PHOTO BY JOHN REEVES/B-CU

Dr. Edison Jackson greets freshmen earlier this year at a special program for them at the Mary McLeod Bethune Performing Arts Center in Daytona Beach.

Since arriving in Daytona, Jackson has joined the Daytona Beach Chamber of Commerce and the Hispanic Chamber on the west side of Volusia County.

Jackson said his top priority is addressing the needs of the students who will be matriculating through B-CU. “We have a moral obligation to offer them a quality education and a safe place to learn. If we can’t provide

them with a great education, all they will have is a worthless piece of paper (diploma),” he continued.

‘The B-CU Experience’ Jackson said the “B-CU Experience” for the students is a work in progress.

Its one reason he hired a new provost this year.

“I needed a person in place to help me fulfill my vision at a fast pace. I have

crizotinib that could target his specific gene mutation.

“It was really miraculous. Within a week most of my symptoms had disappeared and within three weeks I was jogging again,” he said.

prevention. As facts about cancer become common knowledge, people are becoming more proactive about health. For example, self-detection is now the second most common way breast cancer is found, Brawley said.

New breed of survivor

Still some stigma

Hill is an example of an increasingly common new breed of cancer survivor: one who may not be cured but can live with the disease.

“I’m not able to say that we’re going to have a cure,” Brawley said. “My vision of cancer in the future is that many of these diseases are going to become much more like diabetes: They will be chronic diseases.”

Other doctors are optimistic that some cancers can still be eradicated completely.

“We are curing cancers, even in a very advanced stage, ever more often than we were,” Nelson said.

“There’s a huge amount of hope that we finally understand enough about how the immune system works that we’re going to be able to use it to control and eradicate these cancers more effectively.”

The progress has been aided by increased public awareness and better

Public figures frequently speak out about their diagnoses, following a trend started by first lady Betty Ford, who made waves in 1974 when she openly discussed her breast cancer.

Advocacy groups provide everything from brochures to educational retreats.

Large-scale fundraising events like Relay for Life and the Susan G. Komen Race for the Cure loudly and proudly bring cancer to the public eye.

On the other side of awareness, however, is stigma.

Many taboos about cancer have fallen away as American society has advanced along with medicine. But misperceptions remain, particularly with diseases whose potential causes lend a stigma to the diagnosis. That includes cancers of the lung, cervix, and head and neck.

“There is definitely a stigma of lung cancer that makes it harder to get

in place my team – people who are passionate. We are going in right direction,” he explained.

Jackson said there are plans to have a new student union building constructed in the place of the former Cookman Hall.

“Most institutions have one-top shopping. Students should not have to walk all across campus,” he said. The new Student Union will include specialty shops.

“I couldn’t live with myself if I ignored conditions of student living,” he said sharing that he had two student dorms – Curtis Hall and the Bronson Annex – gutted and renovated, plus added new furniture.

behind the Larry Handfield Training Center.

Though many alumni and students want a new gym, Jackson said the funds for such an endeavor are not available.

So in the meantime the old gym will be enhanced and expanded to include new seating and locker rooms.

More improvements Jackson said two more residence halls will be constructed on the current football practice field before his presidency is concluded.

Construction soon will begin on a new practice field for football players

Record enrollment Jackson beamed as he noted that B-CU’s enrollment has hit a historic high.

B-CU surpassed projections enrolling a record 3,787 students for fall 2013.

The projected enrollment for fall 2013 was 3,471.

Jackson added that B-CU received nearly 10,000 applicants.

“Students from across the world see the value in a Bethune-Cookman education. We are focusing on academic excellence and that is drawing students who want a quality education,” he continued.

“I don’t want the uni-

funding,” said Hill, who never smoked. “Part of it is getting more survivors like myself so I can talk about it and advocate for it.”

Funding is arguably the most vital link in the chain of continuing progress.

“One of the problems of talking about this today is that the federal research program is being impacted right now by the government shutdown. It’s a juxtaposition of the most promising signs (of progress) ever and some very unfortunate political decisions leading to an unnecessary slowing of research,” said Dr. Clifford A. Hudis, chief of breast cancer medicine service at Memorial Sloan-Kettering Cancer Center in New York and president of the American Society of Clinical Oncology, referring to federal budget cuts and the current government shutdown.

In spite of such challenges, experts agree that the fight against cancer is at a better place than ever.

At the American Cancer Society’s anniversary celebration in May, CEO Dr. John R. Seffrin said he is ready to put the society out of business.

“We’re determined to make this cancer’s last century,” he said. versity perceived as a last resort. We can pick and choose,” Jackson added.

Higher-learning reality Though Jackson is not worried about the future of B-CU as long as he is at the helm, he is concerned about other higher learning institutions.

He noted that the federal government is more critical of universities demanding accountability, high graduation rates and other requirements if the schools want their institutions to continue qualifying to receive the grants and loans of students who want to go to their school.

“Those of us who don’t change and adapt may not be around,” he said.

About next week, Jackson said the inauguration of a president is one of the high days of an institution along with convocation, founder’s day and graduation.

“We will be celebrating a day in the life of our university,” he concluded.

TOj B4

FOOD

OCTOBER 11 – OCTOBER 17, 2013

Food & friends make downtime delicious FROM FAMILY FEATURES

A

s the temperature begins to drop, it’s the perfect opportunity to gather your circle of friends and bring the entertainment indoors. Whether it’s game day or the season finale of your favorite TV show, these dishes and delectable wine pairings will make any casual get-together that much more memorable ... and delicious.

From finger foods to satisfying meals, Mrs. T’s Pierogies has you covered. Flavorful whipped potatoes combined with tasty additions, like cheddar cheese and onion, are gently folded into a pasta shell to create the perfect canvas for your favorite ingredients and spices. Dishes like Buffalo Pierogies and Pierogies Pad Thai are perfect for a crowd, whether you’ve planned ahead or are having an impromptu gathering — just be sure to keep

Pierogy Kebabs Prep time: 15 minutes Cook time: 12 to 16 minutes Serves: 8 Wine pairing: The Naked Grape Cabernet Sauvignon 1 tablespoon olive oil 1/2 teaspoon chili powder 1 (12-ounce) box Mrs. T’s Potato & Cheddar Mini Pierogies, thawed 1/2 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into 1-inch pieces 1/2 pound beef sirloin or tenderloin, cut into 1-inch pieces Salt and freshly ground pepper 2 green bell peppers, peeled, cored, seeded and cut into 1-inch pieces 2 red bell peppers, peeled, cored, seeded and cut into 1-inch pieces 2 yellow and/or orange bell peppers, peeled, cored, seeded and cut into 1-inch pieces Preheat broiler. Combine olive oil and chili powder in small bowl. Brush pierogies with chili mixture. Toss chicken chunks and beef chunks separately with salt and pepper to taste. Using six (6) 12-inch-long metal skewers, thread meat chunks, pierogies and bell peppers.

Repeat with remaining ingredients.

Broil skewers three inches from the heat source until meat, pierogies and peppers are cooked through (about 6 to 8 minutes per side). Serve with your favorite dipping sauce.

a few boxes of pierogies in your freezer.

The Naked Grape’s new high-quality 3L box wine is the perfect choice to serve alongside these dishes. As the only box wine that is fully recyclable from bag to box, you get to experience the same great tasting wine found in their bottles in an eco-friendly and attractive package that can go where glass can’t. The box is perfect for large gatherings — each box holds four bottles of wine — and can be stored easily on the fridge shelf for up to four weeks. There’s a wine for everyone with four fresh and original varietals: Pinot Noir, Cabernet Sauvignon, Pinot Grigio and Chardonnay.

With pierogies and wine, no matter the occasion, you’re guaranteed a relaxing and tasty time.

For more recipes, visit www.Pierogies. com. And for more information on The Naked Grape, visit www.TheNakedGrapeWine.com.

TOJ

Buffalo Pierogies Prep time: 10 minutes Cook time: 18 minutes Serves: 4 Wine pairing: The Naked Grape Pinot Grigio 1 cup oil 1/2 cup hot pepper sauce 1/2 teaspoon chili powder 1 (12-ounce) box Mrs. T’s Potato & Cheddar Mini Pierogies Non-stick cooking spray Blue cheese dressing Carrot sticks Celery sticks Preheat oven to 400°F. Combine oil, hot sauce and chili powder; toss with frozen pierogies. Coat baking sheet with non-stick cooking spray and spread pierogies evenly on the baking sheet. Bake at 400°F for 16 to 18 minutes, or until pierogies are puffed and browned. For best results, turn over once halfway through bake time.

Serve with blue cheese dressing, carrot sticks and celery sticks.

Optional: Deep fry frozen pierogies in 350°F oil for 3 min utes or until golden brown, as directed on box.

Pierogies with Butter & Onions Prep time: 5 minutes Cook time: 10 to 15 minutes Serves: 4 Wine pairing: The Naked Grape Chardonnay 1 (16-ounce) box Mrs. T’s Potato & Cheddar Pierogies 1 cup sliced onions 1/4 cup melted butter, margarine or olive oil Place pierogies in boiling water; cook about 5 to 7 minutes.

Mean while, sauté onions and butter in medium saucepan over medium heat. Place sautéed onions into large bowl.

Add cooked pierogies and mix gently.

Serve and top with sour cream, if desired.

Pierogies Pad Thai Prep time: 10 minutes Cook time: 15 minutes Serves: 4 Wine pairing: The Naked Grape Chardonnay 1 (12-ounce) box Mrs. T’s Mini Potato & Cheddar Mini Pierogies 1 tablespoon butter or margarine 2 large eggs, beaten 1 tablespoon peanut oil 1 large garlic clove, minced 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into thin slices 1/2 teaspoon salt 1/4 teaspoon crushed red pepper 1/2 cup peanut sauce 1 cup bean sprouts 1/4 cup chopped peanuts 2 scallions, thinly sliced Boil pierogies according to package directions. Drain.

Meanwhile, in 12-inch skillet over medium-high heat, melt butter; cook eggs until just scrambled, stirring constantly.

Remove to bowl. In same skillet, heat peanut oil; over medium heat, cook garlic until lightly browned. With slotted spoon, remove garlic to bowl with eggs.

In drippings remaining in skillet over medium-high heat, cook chicken until well browned and cooked through, stirring constantly. Add salt and crushed red pepper. Stir in egg mixture, peanut sauce, bean sprouts and cooked pierogies. Toss to mix well. Garnish with chopped peanuts and scallions.

Pesto Pierogies Prep time: 5 minutes Cook time: 10 minutes Serves: 6 Wine pairing: The Naked Grape Pinot Noir 1 (8-ounce) package cream cheese, softened 1/4 cup prepared pesto 1/4 teaspoon salt 1 (12-ounce) box Mrs. T’s Potato & Onion Mini Pierogies 1/3 cup roasted red pepper strips, well drained 2 tablespoons pine nuts, toasted In medium bowl, stir softened cream cheese, pesto and salt until well blended and smooth. Sauté pierogies as package directs.

Arrange pierogies on large serving platter; top each pierogy with small dollop of pesto mixture. Top each with some roasted red pepper strips; sprinkle with pine nuts.

STOJ

OCTOBER 11 – OCTOBER 17, 2013

FINEST & ENTERTAINMENT

Meet some of

FLORIDA'S

finest

submitted for your approval

B5

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.

Born and raised in Florida, Sara Hollywood enjoys working out and spending time with her family. She has been modeling for about three years and striving toward being on the cover of Sports Illustrated.

Contact Sara at facebook. com/ sarahollywood or on twitter: @ MsSarahollywood.

Cristopher Gray is an aspiring model from Ormond Beach currently attending school in Los Angeles.

He can be contacted at mistirchris08@ aol.com.

sara

christopher

Tampa native impresses judges on ‘The Voice’ R. Anthony is a former radio host and member of the gospel group Ordained.

NBC’s “The Voice’’ aired its fifth season this fall with a musical flare from Tampa Bay. Tampa artist R. Anthony amazed judges during the airing of this nationally acclaimed television show.

Anthony’s performance aired Sept. 30. He was selected to compete with other vocalists representing “Team Cee-Lo Green.”

“I want to bring a pure and passionate experience to audiences around the country,” said Antho-

STEPHANE ALLAMAN/ ABACA PRESS/MCT

ny. “I never intended to try out for ‘The Voice’; I’m truly humbled by this experience.”

“The Voice’’ judge Christina Aguilera also admired the soul and passion in Anthony’s voice.

Semifinalist in internatlonal songwriting competition His dream of writing music and singing began 20 years ago. In 2012 he inched closer to this goal

when his songwriting ability gained the attention of Woodward Avenue Records.

In late 2012 he penned and submitted ‘He’s In My Corner’ to the International Songwriters Competition. Out of 20,000 submissions, his song was chosen as a semifinalist along with 1,800 other contestants.

Anthony, a former radio host and member of the gospel group Ordained, has an extensive history of involvement within the

music community.

He has shared the stage with recording artists Deitrick Haddon, Dorinda Clark-Cole, Canton Jones, Yolanda Adams, Hezekiah Walker, William Murphy, Tasha Cobbs, Melinda Watts, Doobie Powell, and other leaders in the gospel industry.

R. Anthony is supported by wife Tiffany and daughters Riana and Taylor.

For more information on R. Anthony, visit www.reverbnation.com/ranthony.

Fox breaks down ‘Today’ show on TV over breakup mourns death of longtime super fan with ‘Slim’ White FROM WIRE REPORTS

EURWEB.COM

You saw him outside of the “Today” show window – rain or shine, sleet or snow – just standing there quietly observing the segments, or pointing to the camera as it sweeps a shot of the crowd.

His name was Linny Boyette, a 71-year-old military veteran who was born in England but lived in the Bronx. He woke up every day at 3:30 a.m. to make sure he could secure his front row spot on the plaza by 5:30 a.m., according to NBC. “It makes my day,” he told “Today” in 2010.

However, health problems earlier this year prevented Boyette from attending the show regularly in his final months. Last week, a friend of Boyette’s told the Today crew that he was gravely ill.

Suffered heart attack Boyette died Oct. 5 after suffering a heart attack.

The show dedicated a segment to him on Monday.

“Our dear friend, Linny, passed away this weekend,”

Linny Boyette Al Roker tweeted Monday.

“He will be missed. Greatest Today fan ever. Our thoughts and prayers with Linny and family.”

Added Matt Lauer: “Peace Linny. And thank you for your gentle kindness.”

Also saddened to hear of Linny’s passing,” former “Today” host Meredith Vieira tweeted late Sunday. “I always loved seeing him every morning on the plaza. He had a wonderful smile and so sweet.”

It seems the actress who played a relationship expert in the 2001 film “Two Can Play That Game,” can’t quite figure out how the game works in real life.

If what we saw on the “Bethenny Frankel Show” is any indication, Fox hasn’t quite gotten over the split between her and ex-fiancé, Omar “Slim” White.

Monday, on Frankel’s show the 49-yearold Vivica A. Fox broke down and cried while telling how she wanted a baby with the much younger nightclub promoter.

“We broke up three months before the wedding. Kids wasn’t the issue at all. It just wasn’t right and I had to be honest with myself and I wasn’t happy anymore. He is a great guy, he just wasn’t for me. My brother lives in Atlanta, I was about to move my life to Atlanta, and they could see that I wasn’t happy. They said, ‘You’re just doing

this because you want to have a child and you want to move closer back east,’ and all my family lives back East.”

Moved on Interestingly, a recent interview, Fox vowed she would never date a man under 30 again.

But sources say Fox is still pining away for her ex-lover.

Gossip blogger Sandra Rose reports that according to a friend, the actress and Slim exchanged texts as recently as two months ago.

But Slim has moved on with another celebrity starlet who shares his morals, values and his vegan diet.

Slim keeps himself busy consulting with clients on health and nutrition, and he books celebrities for Krave Lounge on Saturdays, including Chris Brown and Christina Milian.

He often posts photos of his clients on his Instagram page Instagram. com/OmarSlimWhite.

Vivica A. Fox is shown with talk-show host Bethenny Frankel.

TOj B6

OCTOBER 11 – OCTOBER 17, 2013

STOJ