NJG | Vol. 123, No. 42 - Oct 19, 2023

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October 19, 2023 - October 25, 2023

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PRES. BIDEN’S TRIP TO ISRAEL HOPES TO AVERT WAR

By Stacy M. Brown

Israel’s

perceived

occupation

The conflict in Israel has triggered a cascade of far-reaching of Palestine continues to be a point of discussion, with consequences, resonating globally. The strife has spurred widespread focal proponents and critics engaging in fervent exchange of perspectives.

NNPA NEWSWIRE protests in major cities worldwide, with demonstrators advocating aThe multifaceted developments White House Press Secretary underscore the intricate interplay of Karine Jean-Pierre confirmed for peace and justice in the region. political, social, and international Senior National Correspondent @StacyBrownMedia

this week that President Biden would embark on a diplomatic mission to Israel and Jordan on Wednesday, October 18. The visit aims to reaffirm the United States’ “unwavering support for Israel” in the wake of a recent terrorist attack

by Hamas and to strategize on future actions.

Before his departure, the White House reported that Biden talked with Middle Eastern leaders,

including President Abdel Fattah El-Sisi of Egypt. The discussions focused on collaborative efforts to alleviate the escalating humanitarian crisis in Gaza with the UN, Jordan, the Palestinian Authority, Israel, and other regional partners.

The conflict in Israel has triggered a cascade of far-reaching

consequences, resonating globally.

The strife has spurred widespread protests in major cities worldwide, with demonstrators advocating for peace and justice in the region.

At home, protests have intensified as well as hate crimes.

In a horrifying incident in Illinois, a 6-year-old boy was tragically stabbed to death, and his mother –

both Lebanese – critically wounded in an alleged anti-Muslim hate crime. Joseph Czuba, 71, the landlord, is accused of the brutal attack, which authorities attribute to the ongoing Middle Eastern conflict. President Biden swiftly condemned the attack, categorizing it as a hate crime.

The enduring debate surrounding

Barbara’s Refocusing!

NORFOLK One of Hampton Roads’ most familiar and beloved faces on TV Broadcasting announced this week she is beginning a new phase of her life as she ends a 50-year journalism career.

Barbara Ciara, currently WTKR News 3 Managing Editor, Evening Anchor and Hampton Roads news icon, plans to end her 50-year career in print and broadcast news in December. She said she is marking the milestone occasion by refocusing her life goals. Newly engaged, Barbara and her fiancé have plans for world travel.

Ciara completes a fulfilling career at WTKR News 3 where she started in 2000.

She spent the last 43 years in the Hampton Roads spotlight, spending time at WVEC and WAVY before landing at WTKR. “Not many people in this industry have the opportunity to work at three network

Book Banning Continues To Target Prominent Popular Black Authors

By Rosaland Tyler Associate Editor New Journal and Guide

I consider myself blessed to have had a challenging career without sacrificing my connection to community.”

– Barbara Ciara

affiliates without changing zip codes,” Ciara noted.

“I consider myself blessed to have had a challenging career without sacrificing my connection to community.”

Ciara published her first news article in a college newspaper, which began her 50-year career in print and broadcast. ...see Ciara, page 2A

Barbara Ciara

This past July, Ta-Nehisi Coates traveled to a South Carolina school board meeting to support a Chapin High School teacher who was told to stop using his 2015 book, “Between the World and Me.” According to a school board member, Coates’ coming of age book was banned after a local school board member in February told the teacher that the book made students feel “uncomfortable” and “ashamed to be Caucasian.”

The books were collected and the assignment ended.

Tess Pratt, the chairwoman of Chapin High School’s English department, said in recent news reports, “On the day that I took TaNehisi Coates’ books out of the hands of Ms. Wood’s students, I silenced his story.

Photo: Courtesy Even though this was a decision that was not mine, I will regret that moment in

BLACK-OWNED HOTEL IN GREEN BOOK IS HONORED WITH HISTORIC MARKER

By Leonard E. Colvin

The historic marker was placed at a gone.

Thanks to the book, the movie, personal Chief Reporter stretch of Buckroe Beach where the recollections of those New Journal and Guide living and two state Bay Shore Hotel and beach were once still lawmakers, the first of 60 The 2018 movie “Green of the 300 sites in Virginia Book” is a bio-comedy- located. drama telling the true story of a 1962 tour of the Deep South by Black pianist Don Shirley and his white-Italian driver.

The movie was inspired by the “The Negro Motorist Green Book,” used by Blacks travelers from the 1930s to the 60s, to locate 4,032 hotels and other public sites in 21

mostly southern states which they could safely patronize during the height of Jim Crow segregation.

New York Mailman Hugo Green compiled the “The Negro Traveler’s Green Book,” the first publication of its kind after hearing about the harrowing experiences

forces in the ongoing conflict.

As the conflict continues to escalate, up to 600 Americans find themselves stranded in Gaza, grappling with dwindling essential supplies and a dire humanitarian situation. The State Department has reported that access to clean water, food, fuel, and medical provisions has become increasingly scarce. ...see Israel, page 2A

Black travelers experienced.

There are over 300 such sites in Virginia, according to the website “The Architecture of The Negro Traveler: The Greenbook,” including hotels, restaurants, barber and beauty shops, and service stations, most all

Ta-Nehisi Coates …at NSU this week

front of those students for the rest of my life, because it was wrong.”

Coates, who is author of the #1 New York Times best-seller “Between the World and Me,” and winner of the 2015 National Book Award for Nonfiction, was booked recently at the L. Douglas Wilder Performing Arts Center on the campus of Norfolk State University. ...see Banning, page 5A

NSU Tennis Center Renamed

was honored recently with a historic marker placed at a stretch of Buckroe Beach where the Bay Shore Hotel and beach were once located.

Virginia Governor Glenn Youngkin, Hampton Mayor Donnie Tuck, dignitaries, and people with personal ties attended the event. ...see Green Book, page 6A

DEMS: VOTER PURGE VIOLATED VRA

By Leonard E. Colvin Chief Reporter New Journal and Guide

Virginia Democrats are awaiting a response from Attorney General Merrick Garland on whether he will probe the recent “purge” of the voter roll by the Youngkin administration.

They believe the Governor violated the Voting Rights Act when it wiped off at least 270 fully qualified Virginia voters from the state’s rolls.

In a letter to the media dated October 6, two Democratic Senators and six Democrats in the House of

Representatives pressed Garland to undertake an investigation.

The letter was signed by U.S. Senators Tim Kaine and Mark Warner, and along with U.S. Representatives Bobby Scott, Gerald Connolly, Donald S. Beyer Jr., Abigail D. Spanberger, Jennifer Wexton, and Jennifer McClellan.

The letter reinforced a call by Congressman Scott for the DOJ inquiry he made during a press conference shortly before the letter was sent.

“This widespread error creates an enormous barrier to the democratic

process for these affected Virginians while early voting has already begun for this November’s election,” the letter says.

Elections officials under Virginia’s Republican Governor Glenn Youngkin acknowledged the removals on October 5 but said they stemmed from honest mistakes that they will correct before the November 7 General Assembly elections, which will decide the fate of the governor’s legislative legacy and his viability as a potential 11thhour 2024 presidential candidate. ...see Purge, page 6A

Grandmother Turns Her Pain Into Purpose When JoAnne Cramatie lost her beloved grandson to senseless violence, she began healing her pain by establishing a youth organization dedicated to helping youth. ...see ... see page 7A

Photo: Randy Singleton

NORFOLK Coach Nat Warren retired from NSU in 2009 where he served as the head Tennis Coach. He has continued to be active as a major fundraiser for the NSU tennis center. Last Saturday, NSU honored him during a Black-tie gala at the Norfolk Yacht Club by renaming the center after him. Shown are Coach Warren with his wife, Liz, being congratulated by President Javaune Adams-Gaston. ...see page 1B

New Journal and Guide

2A | October 19, 2023 - October 25, 2023

Barbara’s SOCIAL SECURITY BENEFITS TO INCREASE Ciara DESPITE REPUBLICAN CALLS FOR REFORM Continued from page 1A leadership, presence and

By Stacy M. Brown

Senior National Correspondent @StacyBrownMedia NNPA NEWSWIRE In the face of increasing pressure from elected Republican officials to reform safety net programs, the Social Security Administration has announced a 3.2 percent increase in benefits for 2024. Starting December 29, recipients of Social Security will see an average boost of $50 per month in their retirement benefits, a change attributed to the annual Cost of Living Adjustment (COLA) calculated based on inflation readings from July, August, and September.

“Social Security and SSI benefits will increase in 2024, and this will help

Israel Continued from page 1A In retaliation for Hamas attacks on Israel, the Israeli government has enforced a blockade, leaving Gaza without electricity for several days. The toll of the conflict is stark: over 2,450 casualties and 9,200 injuries have been reported in Gaza, while in Israel, 1,400 individuals have lost their lives and 3,500 have been wounded.

Among the casualties are 30 Americans, victims of Hamas’ attack on Israel and the ensuing warfare, according to a State Department spokesperson.

Automated emails and ambiguous phone calls from the State Department have hampered efforts to ensure the safety of Palestinian Americans, leaving families uncertain about evacuation prospects.

The Rafah crossing, a vital gateway, remains closed, further complicating exit strategies. Additionally, the hub has suffered physical damage from Israeli airstrikes in Gaza.

In the United States, reactions to the conflict vary, with Black Americans expressing various emotions.

Many drew parallels between the struggles of Palestinians and African-Americans in their fight against systemic racism, as highlighted through social media campaigns.

In a 2006 PBS-TV interview, Carter discussed his book, “Palestine, Peace Not Apartheid,” regarding the

NEW JOURNAL AND GUIDE P.O. Box 209, Norfolk,VA 23501 Phone: (757) 543-6531 Fax: (757) 543-7620 PUBLISHER AND EDITOR-IN-CHIEF: Brenda H. Andrews CHIEF REPORTER: Leonard E. Colvin ASSISTANT TO THE PUBLISHER: Desmond Perkins ASSOCIATE EDITOR: Rosaland Tyler PRODUCTION: Tony Holobyte

New Journal and Guide (USPS 0277560/ISSN 8096) is published weekly on Thursday for $50 per year, $30 per year for six months by New Journal and Guide Publishing, Incorporated,5127 East Va. Beach Blvd., Suite 100, Norfolk, VA 23510.

Periodicals Postage Paid at Norfolk, VA 23501.

Postmaster: Send address changes to New Journal and Guide, P.O. Box 209, Norfolk, VA 23501. The New Journal and Guide is not responsible for any unsolicited manuscripts, photographs or related materials.

Republicans continue to advocate for cuts and significant changes in the Social Security system that accounts for most older Americans’ monthly income. millions of people keep up with expenses,” stated Kilolo Kijakazi, acting commissioner of Social Security.

The Bureau of Labor Statistics’ Consumer Price Index for Urban Wage Earners and Clerical Workers (CPI-W), which showed increases of 2.6 percent in July, 3.4 percent in August, and 3.6 percent in September, is where the adjustment comes from.

Despite this positive news for Social Security beneficiaries, a political battle looms over the long-term fate of these crucial programs.

Israeli-Palestine conflict.

“This apartheid, which is prevalent throughout the occupied territories, the subjection of the Palestinians to horrible abuse, is caused by a minority of Israelis – we’re not talking about racism, but talking about their desire to acquire, to occupy, to confiscate, and then to colonize Palestinian land,” Carter said. “So, the whole system is designed to separate through a ferocious system Israelis who live on Palestine territory and Palestinians who want to live on their own territory.”

During the 2022 campaign season, several Republican incumbents, and candidates, including Florida Sen. Rick Scott and Wisconsin Sen. Ron Johnson, advocated for significant changes, including cuts and the need for annual funding reauthorization.

Scott’s 11-point legislative agenda included a provision proposing the expiration of all federal laws every five years, which he argued would best serve to “preserve those programs.” Johnson, who narrowly won reelection, called for transforming all mandatory spending into discretionary funds, asserting this would enable better evaluation and problemsolving for programs facing financial strain.

Unsuccessful GOP Senate candidates in various states also floated proposals to end at least one of the programs through privatization or significant cuts, highlighting a growing divide on the issue within the Republican Party.

Medicare, Medicaid, and Social Security each constitute critical pillars of support for a significant portion of the American population, particularly seniors and those with limited means.

According to the Center on Budget and Policy Priorities,

Social Security alone accounts for most older Americans’ monthly income, with nearly a quarter relying on it for 90 percent of their income.

According to the Social Security Administration, over 67 million people received benefits in 2023, with nearly 90 percent of those over 65 relying on the program.

Stanford University’s white paper on Social Security outlines its historical development, emphasizing its role in safeguarding retirees against financial insecurity.

While the program remains crucial for many, the same Stanford paper highlights that demographic and economic shifts pose challenges to its long-term financial stability.

The authors contend that policymakers must confront the issue and explore potential reforms to ensure the program’s continued viability.

“Social Security is an essential program that provides critical support to millions of retirees, survivors, and disabled individuals,” the authors asserted. “While reforming Social Security is challenging, policymakers must act to address the program’s long-term funding shortfall and ensure that the program can continue to meet its important mission.”

Her journalism spans the globe. She reported from Afghanistan in the aftermath of the September 11th attacks on the World Trade Center.

Nearly a decade earlier, Ciara covered Operations Desert Shield/Storm and Operation Enduring Freedom from active military locations in Saudi Arabia and Bahrain.

Ciara also provided coverage from GITMO after Cuban refugees escaped communist rule.

On the home front, Ciara’s reporting includes investigative journalism and interviews with prominent figures like Presidents Bill Clinton, George W. Bush, and Barack Obama, not to mention, an interview with Oprah Winfrey.

“Barbara’s leadership, presence and legacy will impact our community commitment for years to come,” said Adam Chase, WTKR Vice President and General Manager. “Her panache, sharp wit and contagious laugh will be missed in our newsroom.”

Barbara Ciara served as President for the National Association of Black Journalists from 2007-2009 and she served a term as President of Unity Journalists of Color, representing Asian, Hispanic, Native American, and Black Journalists.

Ciara currently serves on the board of trustees

legacy will impact our community commitment for years to come.

Her panache, sharp wit and contagious laugh will be missed.”

– Adam Chase, WTKR Vice President and General Manager

for the National Capital Chesapeake Bay Chapter of the NationalnAcademy of Television Arts & Sciences.

Ciara said she is most proud of her journalism that gives a voice to the voiceless, and has been awarded several Capital Regional Emmys, and nominations. Her most recent Emmy win in 2020 was for the long form documentary “The New Canaan Experiment – Teaching Tolerance.”

Ciara’s last day with WTKR News 3 will be December 1, 2023. Starting December 4, News 3’s Jessica Larche will join Kurt Williams and Patrick Rockey in the afternoon. Blaine Stewart, Erin Miller, Jennifer Lewis, and Myles Henderson will continue to inform and inspire viewers on News 3 This Morning.

WTKR is a member of the The Scripps Networks.

From The Guide’s Archives

Archives taken from the pages of the (New) Journal and Guide October 19, 1935 Edition of the Guide Rental Agent Takes Doors Off Sick Woman’s Home TIDEWATER A growing practice among rental agents reached a new low recently when a local rental agency ordered the outer doors taken from the Green Street resident’s home recently, it has been reported this week.

The tenant is Dennie Pitt, who lives at 1424 Green Street, and the rental agency is the T. B. Lee Real Estate Company. When the company was asked by telephone for a statement on the case Thursday morning, the interview was abruptly terminated after the attaché or official answering said “They are not paying anything – we want them out.”

Several weeks ago, the front and rear doors of the poverty-stricken woman’s home were removed.

Protection from the chilly weather was not possible as two doors were removed from the second floor and rear of the dwelling. The rental agent is alleged to have the doors removed and now the woman lies at a point of death in a house with no doors.

A special committee from the local branch of the National Association for the Advancement of Colored People (NAACP) has been assigned to investigate the matter, it was reported.

Distinguished Attorney Appears Here For The NAACP PORTSMOUTH At its first major public attraction, the Portsmouth Branch of the National Association for the Advancement of Colored People will present Dr. Charles H. Houston, Dean of the Howard Law School, now on leave of absence as special counsel for the national office of the NAACP, as the main speaker on a star-studded program at Emanuel AME Church Friday evening.

In bringing Dr. Houston here it is the hope of the

local branch to gain greater prestige among citizens of both races. While the speaker’s subject was not announced it has been indicated that his address will follow along with the general theme of inequality in educational facilities.

In a recent letter to Dr. W. B. Anderson, president of the local branch of the NAACP, Dr. Houston stated that “so many people do not understand the educational programs of the NAACP. The speaker will be introduced by Moses F. Gibson, Hayes and William Richardson are scheduled to deliver solos on the program.

Allotment of $7,000 For Negro Schools In Norfolk County TIDEWATER Allocations for the expenditures of the $1,000,000 in Norfolk County on the Works Progress Administration (WPA) projects approved by officials in Washington, include $7,546.12 for the erection of new Negro school building.

This figure is tentative as the exact figures and projects have not been decided upon yet.

When the plans were made public early in September, Superintendent James Hurst told the Journal and Guide that part of the money would probably be spent on constructing a four-room brick school at Oakwood adjacent to the present school building. He stated that other improvements included the construction of a two-room framed building at Eureka (for Quillen), a one-room framed school at Willow Grove, and a one-room framed building at Diggs.

The original tentative plans called for the expenditure of about $20,000 on the proposed improvements instead of the $7,546.12 now announced.

Major among the projects is the plan to spend about $20,000 for clerical assistance in public offices of the county.

Another of the large projects calls for the

ADVISORY BOARD FOR COLLEGE

These are the members of the biracial board of The Norfolk Unit of the Virginia Union University which opened this Fall. (Left to right) Seated: President W. J. Clark of Union, Franz Naylor, O. A. Calcott and A. H. Foreman: Standing, W. E. Riddick, G.W.C Brown, Business Manager; J. W. Barco, of the Union Faculty; J.E. Diggs, Louis I. J. Jaffe, (of the Virginian Pilot); the Rev. Harvey N. Johnson, W. T. Hodges, Judge H. G. Cochran, P.B. Young, Sr., Samuel F. Scott (first) Director of the Norfolk Unit; Winston Douglas and R. P. Daniel, dean of extension at Union. beautification and teachers have again refused landscaping of a certain to go along with Virginia Governor Stanley’s plan section of the county. which would integrate the state’s student body.

Celebrate Girls Week The teachers showed For The First Time their disdain for the plan In Portsmouth by rejecting a resolution to accept it during their PORTSMOUTH The annual Girl’s Week annual meeting here last programs were carried weekend.

Despite pressure from out for the first time in Portsmouth under the supporters of the Stanley direction of the State Plan, the group stood by Federation of Colored its statement of policy adopted last year. Some Women’s Clubs.

The special speakers 2,000 teachers of the were secured for all District of the Virginia Association schools each day and the Education pastors of churches were reaffirmed their positions requested to speak to girls as follows: on the opening day of “We once again affirm our belief in public education Girls’ Week.

The singer at Ebenezer and urge teachers and Baptist Church on October authorities to exert the utmost influence toward the 13 closed the programs.

The addresses to the preservation of our system girls were given by Mary F. of public education.”

There was a heated Jennings who gave a short history of the work of the debate before the voice Virginia State Federation vote was taken. During and of the origin of the the discussion, debaters Girls’ Week Program. She referred often to leaders also urged the girls to work of the Old South, the U.S. to become ideal women and the Supreme Court’s decision, to be courageous honest, desegregation efficient, and dependable. and racial tension in some sections of the South.

The heated debate October 19, 1957 over the wording of the Edition of the Guide resolutions was reminiscent of the controversy and rage White Teachers Snub over chattel slavery in the Pupil Scheme South prior to the Civil War. PORTSMOUTH A Portsmouth teacher, Tidewater area white

Patrick Riley of Woodrow Wilson High School, stirred up more debate when he declared “What we’re being actually asked to vote for is the StanleyAlmond Plan to cut off the funds and close the schools.” He said the only sensible plan is Ted Dalton’s proposal for local pupil assignment.

The resolution for segregated schools was written and agreed upon and several local association representatives on the committee.

The Dalton plan was part of the 1957 Republican nominee’s campaign pledge for governor. It called for a multi-point plan which included his view on Governor Stanley’s plans to close public schools that are targeted for integration which calls for closing them.

Dalton’s platform statement said “That the public free school system as we know it today must be preserved. Our youths are already handicapped by an inadequate school system, and deliberately imposing further handicaps by the closure of the school system placing our children in an even more disadvantaged position in their competition with youth from other states is an unthinkable solution to the integration problem.

New Journal and Guide

October 19, 2023 - October 25, 2023 | 3A

New Journal and Guide

4A | October 19, 2023 - October 25, 2023

GUN SAFETY: OPERATION RAC IT UP

By Dr. E. Faye Williams, Esq. (Ret.)

PROFESSOR EMERITUS OF SOCIOLOGY VIRGINIA TECH

THE NEGRO PROBLEM

By Wornie Reed, Ph.D.

At first, they (Blacks in America) were not a significant problem as Let us consider the socalled “Negro problem.” they were primarily enslaved. But This issue has many aspects, and few can addressed in a at the founding of the country, the short essay. Let’s deal with one aspect in general terms. Negro became a problem.

I will address a part of one strand of the Negro problem: Black people as a problematic issue for American society. Blacks are a problem for America and have been so since before the beginning of the country.

At first, they were not a significant problem as they were primarily enslaved.

But at the founding of the country, the Negro became a problem. In apportioning the federal legislature, Southerners wanted to count all the enslaved people in their states, and Northerners, who were shedding their slave systems, did not want to count any.

So, the compromise was to count each enslaved person as three-fifths of a person. The compromise gave the South extra representation in the House and extra votes in the Electoral College.

Thus, these states were continually overrepresented in national politics.

The Negro Problem of slavery, of course, led to the Civil War. After the Civil War, the country moved toward a multi-racial democracy.

Reconstruction – between 1865 and 1877 – was a time of significant Black political participation. Across the South, about 2,000 AfricanAmericans served as elected officials, including state legislators and members of Congress. Fourteen African-Americans won election to the U.S. House of Representatives.

Mississippi had two U.S. Senators.

Black participation in government was enabled by three Amendments to the Constitution – the 13th, 14th, and 15th – and the

Civil Rights Bill of 1875.

But all this turned Southern society and customs upsidedown, presenting a new Negro Problem.

This Negro Problem was first attacked by terrorism, led by the Ku Klux Klan. The Hayes-Tilden Compromise aided this terrorism in 1877 when the South ceded the presidency to the Republicans in exchange for the Republican national government removing the federal troops from the South.

Relying on the constitutional foundation supplied by U.S. Supreme Court decisions, including the 1883 repeal of the 1975 Civil Rights law and the 1896 Plessy v. Ferguson decision legalizing segregation, these ex-Confederate states instituted Jim Crow.

In addition to passing and enforcing segregation laws, these states attacked voting rights to disenfranchise AfricanAmericans.

African-Americans fought against Jim Crow for decades and finally broke through with the Supreme Court decision in the 1954 Brown v.

Board of Education case, declaring segregation unconstitutional.

They continued with the Civil Rights Act of 1964 and the Voting Rights Act of 1965, establishing at least a legal basis for a multiracial democracy. But this festering Negro Problem burst open with the election of Barack Obama as president.

Much of White America objected to this apparent multi-racial democracy as it meant losing their place

in the country’s racial hierarchy. Starting with the Tea Party in 2009 – immediately after Obama’s inauguration – White Nationalism came to the rescue.

The U.S. Supreme Court gutted the Voting Rights Act, which many believed brought about the election of Barack Obama, a travesty in the eyes of many White Americans.

Then Republican-led state legislatures began to ramp up their gerrymandering, increasing the minority rule in Congress.

In 2016 Donald Trump ran a racist campaign and tapped into this overwhelming concern for the modern Negro Problem – this status threat from African-Americans and other nonwhites. The title of the report of a study of potential white voters published just before the November 2016 election says it all: “The threat of increasing diversity: Why Many White Americans support Trump in 2016.”

When people in this study were told that nonwhite groups would outnumber White people in 2042, they became more likely to support Trump.

Thus, the MAGA movement and related efforts are against democracy in general and a multi-racial democracy in particular.

On the ballots next year, there will be two choices: democracy and the potential for a multiracial democracy versus authoritarianism and more movements toward the subjugation of AfricanAmericans and other nonwhite people.

Can Alabama Finally Be Forced To Conduct A Fair Election With A Legal Congressional Map The expert herself testified that when (TRICEEDNEYWIRE.COM) “We are not aware of any using the correct other case in which a state legislature – faced with a census data, the federal court order declaring “randomized thorat its electoral plan unlawfully dilutes minority algorithms” she votes and requiring a plan employed “found that provides an additional opportunity district – plans with two responded with a plan that Marc H. Morial the state concedes does not majority Black provide that district.”

– U.S. District Court, State Conference of the districts in literally Northern District of NAACP and the attorneys thousands of Alabama, Southern Division representing them: Legal Defense Fund, American Civil different ways.”

By Marc H. Morial

◆◆◆

After giving Alabama legislators nearly two years to comply with its order and fix the state’s illegal racially gerrymandered Congressional map, a federal court has selected a nondiscriminatory map for them.

Despite rebuke after rebuke Alabama Attorney General Steve Marshall has vowed to keep fighting to restore the racist map. But for the 2024 election, at least, Black voters in Alabama voters will have the opportunity to elect a candidate of their choice in two of the state’s seven districts.

This is thanks to the unflagging efforts of plaintiffs Evan Milligan, Khadidah Stone, Letetia Jackson, Shalela Dowdy, Greater Birmingham Ministries, and the Alabama

Liberties Union, ACLU of Alabama, Hogan Lovells LLP, and Wiggins, Childs, Pantazis, Fisher & Goldfarb. They are to be commended, and the National Urban League will continue to stand with them should A.C. Marshall follow through on his threat.

The U.S. Supreme Court surprised most legal observers in June when it struck down Alabama’s map after allowing the state to use it for last year’s Congressional elections.

Despite being ordered to create a map with “two districts in which Black voters either comprise a votingage majority or something quite close to it,” Alabama legislators in July passed a new map that maintained a single majority-Black district.

In response, the District Court judges wrote, “We are deeply troubled that the

State enacted a map that the State readily admits does not provide the remedy we said federal law requires.” The Court ordered a special master to draft new maps, and after the Supreme Court rejected Alabama’s emergency appeal last month, the District Court selected a new map last week.

Throughout Alabama’s nearly two-year crusade to adopt a map that blatantly violates Section 2 of the Voting Rights Act, the state has insisted that the gerrymandered map could not be in violation because none of the two million its expert witness randomly generated using a “race-neutral” algorithm contained more than one majority-minority district. ...see Alabama, page 6A

Once the firearms are (TRICEEDNEYWIRE.COM) With so many innocent locked up using children being killed during “The RAC” the the past couple of years, I have begun paying greater attention goal is to try and to guns in homes where children find access to them prevent people and some even take them to from unlocking school.

At a meeting of the World their RAC and Conference of Mayors, I met Dr. E. Faye Williams, Esq. (Ret.) a gentleman who talked about using their a way to prevent these useless tragedies, and he has been and community organizations, firearms in anger. introducing The RAC to many people. The overall objective of Operation RAC IT UP is to reduce gun violence through investments in education and prevention measures. That is what this invention does.

The person who introduced the RAC to me was William McMurray from Detroit, Michigan. I am pleased to say he is a Black American, but the RAC was created for everyone in need of gun security. While he is the inventor of this gun security system people of all races are seeing the value of it and the urgent need for the American RAC. At the same time, I met him, I met his family – many of whom work in the company. His invention of The RAC is a family affair – but recently it has grown beyond his family.

Through the program, Team RAC and its community partners provide an instant and practical take-home solution which includes “The RAC” for a safe storage device. The RAC comes with free installation and free educational resources.

If you have children, you need to learn more about The RAC. The company provides information that informs both firearm owners and community leaders of the impact of firearms and the responsibility each one of us has in keeping our communities safe. In partnership with non-profits

the company teaches firearm owners how to properly store their firearms in their vehicles, homes, and businesses safely.

One key feature of the program gives firearm owners the tools they need to secure their firearms when not in use and stresses the importance of storing firearms responsibly.

Another key feature of the program focuses on teaching children how to avoid firearms and alert an adult immediately of their curiosity. The program is comprehensive and factdriven and its design is based on the needs of the community.

Additionally, the company plans to provide referrals to alternative outlets that can prevent senseless violence.

These outlets include Moms Demand Action, Be Smart, recreational facilities, community service programs, community centers, etc. The commitment and involvement of local organizations is critical to the program’s success.

Once the firearms are locked up using “The RAC” the goal is to try and prevent people from unlocking their RAC and using their firearms in anger.

The company lobbies for safe storage laws such as the CAP Law and California Compliance. This should interest legislators and elected officials.

Many mayors, among the membership of the World

Conference of Mayors, have already adopted The RAC. In partnership with elected officials and others, the company wants to lobby for safe storage laws such as the CAP Law and California Compliance. Child Access Prevention Laws hold people accountable for storing a gun unsafely in a manner that makes it likely that a minor could access it, regardless of whether the minor gained access or used the firearm to harm themselves or others. Mr. McMurray says “We believe the most effective safe storage law will require gun locks and a pamphlet on gun safety to be included with every point of sale for gun purchases. This would apply to sales through gun dealers and private gun sales.

The American RAC and its community partners want to follow up on the new safe storage laws and ensure firearms are being securely stored. Through Operation RAC It Up, the company provides free installation of The RAC for those wanting to ensure they’re doing everything properly.

Gun safety is urgently important, and the RAC is worth looking into.

For more information see www.theAMERICANRAC. com

Republicans For Biden?

By David W. Marshall (TRICEEDNEYWIRE.COM) For years, historians have wondered what would have happened had Sen. Robert F. Kennedy not been assassinated. Kennedy, at the time of his death, was able to forge an unlikely political alliance between workingclass whites and Blacks.

As historian Jeff Shesol wrote, “RFK recognized – and shared, by the time of Martin Luther King’s death – Black rage, resentment, and desperation.”

By understanding and becoming sympathetic to the movement of Black power and cultural pride, Kennedy’s presidential campaign centered on using government to empower Black Americans in the quest for social justice. In the wake of King’s assassination, the late Rep. John Lewis stated, “I felt I had lost a friend, a big brother, a colleague.

Somehow, I said to myself, well, we still have Bobby Kennedy.”

As a presidential candidate, Kennedy had the moral conviction and charisma to maintain his deep commitment to civil rights while attracting many working-class white voters, some of whom had voted for segregationist George Wallace in previous elections.

He could cut across race and class lines with a patriotic populism built on respect, compassion, and humanity.

He understood the plight of the poor and disadvantaged.

As a senator, Kennedy worked on poverty issues in New York. He toured through sections of Harlem to call attention to the ineffectiveness of welfare programs at the time and worked to spur the redevelopment of the impoverished BedfordStuyvesant neighborhood in Brooklyn. He visited povertystricken Native American reservations and toured poor areas of Chicago, Los

David W. Marshall Angeles, and other cities.

He vowed to improve life in what activist Michael Harrington called “the other America” – where Americans live with inadequate housing, poor schools, and no hope.

Traveling abroad, the senator saw poverty and hunger firsthand in Southeast Asia and elsewhere.

In March 1967, Marion Wright, a civil rights attorney for the NAACP, testified before Congress about the starving farm workers and their families in the Mississippi Delta – a state where the all-white congressional delegation of conservative pro-segregation Democrats resisted federal funding for food and education programs.

She urged lawmakers to see the crisis for themselves. A month later, Kennedy and other Senate subcommittee members traveled to Mississippi for a day of hearings on poverty programs in the region. The following morning, Kennedy and Sen. Robert Clark flew to Greenville, Mississippi, where they toured some of the most impoverished communities in the state. Throughout the trip, Kennedy often ordered the entourage to pull over for unscheduled stops so that he could talk to families at random.

During the Mississippi Delta visit, one longtime aide recalled how Kennedy seemed more shaken and disturbed by seeing so many children suffering in a way

During the next election, more conservative voters like Dr. Zepponi need to put the welfare of people first, even if it means voting for the “hated Democrat.” that far exceeded other poverty-stricken places throughout the nation and world. In an era filled with deep racial tensions, he sought to address the plight of people experiencing poverty by promoting racial and class unity rather than division. Kennedy once said, “We have to convince the Negroes and the poor whites that they have common interests.” Kennedy’s words were true then, and they remain true today. Many white working-class voters in Mississippi and elsewhere are entrenched in poverty just as much as their Black and brown counterparts. Yet, they will consistently follow their white supremacy views and political ideology when voting against their self-interests. Sadly, if something will ultimately help people of color, many white working-class voters will reject it even if their families and communities would benefit. Case in point: earlier this year, Gov. Tate Reeves of Mississippi refused to expand Medicaid access to the working poor.

In one of the poorest states in the nation, hospitals across Mississippi have recently slashed their staff, discontinued medical services, or closed their doors permanently because of financial pressures within their organizations. ...see Biden, page 6A

New Journal and Guide

October 19, 2023 - October 25, 2023 | 5A

LOCAL VOICES

Trump & His MAGAs vs. US Struggle For Its Soul

By John L. Horton What is it going to take when it comes to former President Donald J. Trump being denied running for reelection in 2024? Presently, almost every other week or thereabouts, Trump is being accused of doing “something” illegal, unethical, and/ or immoral. For instance, October 5, 2023, Trump was accused of sharing sensitive nuclear secrets (U.S. submarine technology) with an Australian billionaire, Anthony Pratt, after leaving office.

As an octogenarian (83), African-American, 30-yearretired (1958-1988), Marine sergeant major, Vietnam combat veteran, with a 100 percent disability rating, I feel that I have “earned” my right to say my “two-cents” on this very important topic. Being a veteran and patriot, I am reminded of General Douglas MacArthur’s language about the importance, uniqueness and value of the U.S. military: “Yours is the profession of arms, the will to win, the sure knowledge that in war there is no substitute for victory, that if you lose, the Nation will be destroyed, that the very obsession of your public service must be duty, honor, country.”

Meantime, many wonder what is going on with some (MAGA) Republicans vs. the military? The Republican-led House voted on September 27 to reduce the salary of the Defense Secretary Lloyd J. Austin to $1, as they were against funding measures of President Biden, his agenda and his top officials. Then there is Senator Tuberville’s (R-Alabama) hold on military promotions in protest of the Pentagon’s abortion travel policy. Tuberville’s hold on promotions delayed

John L. Horton the important military positions of Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff and Commandant of the Marine Corps from being initially fulfilled. And, we must never forget that Marine (four star) general John Kelly and Trump’s former Chief of Staff said that Trump referred to “military members are suckers and losers,” and that deceased Senator John McCain was “not a hero, because McCain was captured.”

Yes, I know ... Trump continues to be in the “news” ... However, what is going on with Trump and the current “political environment” is of historical significance, for America’s stability and future. I would say that this “historical significant event” equates to certain milestones in our nation’s past such as: the Civil War, Civil Rights Bills, LGBTQ Rights, and the like. Because of these circumstances and current dilemmas, many feel that Trump and some of his MAGA acolytes are a “clear and present danger to the nation’s current governance and future stability.” Many would say that we are “fighting for the soul of our nation ...”

Some prime examples of this: Trump has declared that Army General Mark

Milley, Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff, should be charged with treason and executed; mainstream media (newspapers and television networks) should be shuttered; certain governmental agencies and departments should be eliminated; specific judicial officials should be charged and forced from office; certain Democrats and other political opponents should be charged with crimes and replaced or jailed; the administrative state should be deconstructed; the U.S. Constitution should be suspended; any election that he loses should be declared as unfair and/or “stolen”; and the threats, intimidations and condemnations continue on ... Many have accused Trump of injecting venom into the nation’s bloodstream.

Scholars have a term for it, “stochastic terrorism,” the use of mass media to provoke random acts of ideologically motivated violence ...

By his words and actions,

Trump is accused of “putting his interests over those of the country ...” As of August 15th, Trump is facing 91 counts in four different cases.

At this time of racial unrest, economic anxiety and pandemic aftermath, we need positive leadership and national unity more than ever.

And, unfortunately, Trump, as a POTUS, is ill equipped for this challenging task, which leads us to a doorway of derision and down a staircase to (eventual) failure. It does not have to be like this, for we can – and should – do better for the sake and success of “our” country and democracy as a whole.

With all that is going on among our diverse populations and divided communities, I believe Trump is fully engaged in causing and bringing about anguish, anger and antagonism in an attempt to get reelected.

Over the past several years, it amazes me how most Republican politicians

and many influential others interact and react to Trump.

At times, it seems that many of them are treating Trump “differently,” not out of respect, but out of “indifference.” It is as if they are dealing with an egotistical, arrogant, bullying, immature, irresponsible, incompetent “man-child.” Most of them appear to go along with Trump, because they want to avoid the “Trump tantrums” that usually attack those who disagree with and/or confront him.

It is felt and believed by many that Trump is basically uncontrollable and impulsively challenged when it comes to the office of POTUS. That Trump is not a devotee of party, principle, participation, and/or patriotism. Trump has said on many occasions, “If reelected President, I will go after those who have gone after me.”

In contrast to Trump’s rhetoric and threats, I believe as President Abraham Lincoln did: “We are not

enemies, but friends. We must not be enemies. Though passion may have strained, it must not break our bonds of affection. The mystic chords of memory will swell when again touched, as surely they will be, by the better angels of our nature.”

However, I firmly believe, in the final analysis, that “truth, justice, democracy, the Constitution, and the rule of law” will be held steadfast and perpetuate and sustain our nation until its eventual victory for our future and existence.

This, we can do! This, we must do! We must always remember and uphold the eloquent and sage words of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr.: “The ultimate measure of a man is not where he stands in moments of comfort and convenience, but where he stands at times of challenge and controversy.”

John L. Horton is a resident of Norfolk and a frequent contributor to this newspaper.

White racial experiences are more likely to appear on the book-ban list that traction in March Continued from page 1A gained 2022, when Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis walked onstage and hoisted up the His book “The Beautiful book “Call Me Max.” Struggle,” has been selected Minutes later, he signed as the NSU Common Florida’s “Parental Rights Reader for all first-year and in Education” bill, better Transfer students for the known by its critics as the fall semester.

“Don’t Say Gay” bill.

Banning of books by Although Isabel prominent and insightful Wilkerson’s second bestBlack authors is being seller, “Caste: The Origins driven across the nation of Our Discontents,” spent by local school boards, 55 weeks on U.S. best-seller administrators, teachers lists and has sold more than and politicians, according 1.5 million copies, it is to a 2021-2022 report by currently on a book-ban list.

PEN America. Authors Wilkerson’s second who write books about best-seller, “Caste,” is one homosexuality and non- of more than 1600 books

that have been banned in school districts across the nation, according to PEN. Wilkerson’s second bestseller, “Caste,” examined the caste system in India, Nazi-era Germany and the USA. It was released in 2020, a decade after her first best-seller, “The Warmth of Other Suns,” was released in 2010. Her first award-winning bestseller is about the nation’s Great Migration that ran from 1915-1970. Her first book became an immediate New York Times best-seller when it was released in 2010.

Addressing the ban on her second book, the former New York Times reporter and Pulitzer Prize

winning author told Oprah in a recent interview in O Magazine, “We cannot escape our history; it is with us whether we recognize it or not,” Wilkerson said.

“Our inheritance is like a preexisting condition,” Wilkerson told O Magazine.

“You can pretend diabetes or alcoholism doesn’t run in the family, but at some point, you will have to deal with it. You must deal with the consequences of history whether you acknowledge them or not. It’s like covering your ears, not wanting to hear what makes you uncomfortable, what threatens you or your place in society – that’s how I look at it.” ...see Banning, page 7A

Banning

UNLOCK FINANCIAL ASSISTANCE FOR FARMERS, RANCHERS, AND FOREST LANDOWNERS USDA EXTENDS DEADLINE FOR DFAP TO JANUARY 13, 2024 Are you a farmer, rancher, or forest landowner who has faced discrimination in USDA farm lending prior to January 2021? You may be eligible for financial assistance through the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s (USDA) Discrimination Financial Assistance Program (DFAP).

WHAT IS DFAP?

assumed USDA farm loan debt that was the subject of USDA discrimination that occurred prior to $2.2 Billion in Financial Assistance: Thanks January 1, 2021, are eligible for this program. to Section 22007 of the Inflation Reduction Act, USDA is allocating $2.2 billion in financial HOW DOES IT WORK? assistance to eligible farmers, ranchers, and forest landowners who experienced discrimination in Multiple Ways to Apply: Producers have the option to apply via the e-filing portal at 22007apply.

USDA farm lending programs.

Eligibility: Farmers, ranchers, and forest gov or by submitting paper-based forms via mail or landowners who experienced discrimination by in-person delivery to the program’s local offices.

USDA in its farm loan programs prior to January 1, Free Technical Assistance: Technical assistance 2021, and/or are currently debtors with assigned or is available for potential applicants through four regional hubs working closely with communitybased organizations.

Local Resources: Local brick-and-mortar offices are being opened across the country to ensure easy access and personalized assistance. In-person and virtual events are also being held weekly, with state-by-state information on the website.

Important Deadline: Don’t miss out! The deadline for eligible farmers, ranchers, or forest landowners to complete their application is January 13, 2024.

LEARN MORE: Website: For detailed information about DFAP, please visit our official website at 22007apply.gov.

Our website provides comprehensive information on obtaining in-person or virtual technical assistance, supplementary program resources, and detailed program guidelines.

Call Center: Our call center, available at 1-800721-0970, operates from 8 a.m. ET to 8 p.m. PT, seven days a week, except for Federal holidays.

English and Spanish-speaking agents are available, ensuring you get the assistance you need, when you need it.

Newsletter: Information about the program, resources, recent office openings, and local events across the country is also available through a weekly e-newsletter, which you can sign up for on the program site.

DFAP is all about giving you the support you deserve. Don’t let this opportunity pass you by!

Apply now to secure this financial assistance.

6A | October 19, 2023 - October 25, 2023

New Journal and Guide

Green Book

Purge

Continued from page 1A

Continued from page 1A

The state now has a law on the book directing the Virginia Department of Historic Resources to help locales to identify others.

The Bay Shore Hotel was listed in Virginia’s Green Book from 1947-1958, and again from 1962-1964 and 1966-1967. The property began as a four-room cottage in 1898 and by 1925, expanded into a fourstory beachfront hotel with 70 rooms, long porches facing the water, and a dance hall that brought in conventions, tourists, famous entertainers like Cab Calloway, Duke Ellington, Ella Fitzgerald, Louis Armstrong and Redd Foxx.

The hotel attracted thousands of Black travelers from the midAtlantic region before it closed and was torn down in 1973.

“The Bay Shore Hotel was such a popular tourist destination and has an extensive history that many travelers do not know about,” said Secretary of Natural and Historic Resources Travis A. Voyles. “This is just one of many locations throughout the Commonwealth that tells the history of important places to Black Americans. We encourage residents and travelers to visit these plaques to learn more about these times in Virginia’s history.”

State Delegates Jeion Ward (92 district) and Michael Mullin (93 district) introduced House Bill 1968 to designate or approve supplementary plaques for historic site markers identifying Green Book locations and businesses in Virginia.

The bill also calls for additional funding to document surviving buildings listed in the Green Book. The study will help make the historic properties eligible for potential sources of funding, and highway markers, and increase public education about the Green Book and Black History in Virginia.

“I’m grateful for Delegate Jeion Ward, who inspired this bill and whose hard work helped in its passage,” Mullin said.

“Thanks to the efforts of the agencies involved, visitors can now enjoy these historic sites and learn more about our state’s important past.

We hope to see more of the Green Book sites in Virginia honored as the project continues.”

“Faced with the terrible institution of segregation, some very smart Black businessmen, in the late 19th century, turned this spot into the vacation paradise of the South for African-Americans,” said Hampton Mayor, Donnie Tuck. “They had an amusement park; a

“When the governor’s office became aware of the inconsistencies regarding the misclassification of probation violations as felonies, as had been the process in previous administrations, he asked for ... [State Police] to correct the process and ordered a review,” Youngkin spokeswoman Macaulay Porter said in an email to the media.

The Justice Department has not responded to a request for comment as of the GUIDE’s deadline.

The issue arose weeks after early voting in the state began on Sept. 22.

Youngkin’s elections officials conceded that they had removed an unknown number of voters who had been convicted of felonies, had their voting rights restored, and then went on to violate the terms of their probation.

The state’s computer software counted the probation violations as new felonies that disqualified them from voting, administration officials have said.

The administration announced in December that it scrubbed 10,588 voters from the rolls as it sought to root out anyone not entitled to cast a ballot. Elections officials acknowledged that some of them should not have been removed, but they were unable to determine how many immediately.

As it turned out, 270 of the removals were made in error, officials said.

The lawmakers’ letter calls news reports about the problem “alarming” given the “consequential

election already underway in Virginia” and previous issues with the state’s voter registration systems under Youngkin – including backlogs that delayed the processing of about 256,000 “motor voter” registration applications in the run-up to last year’s midterm congressional elections.

Youngkin ran for Governor in 2021 vowing to bring “election integrity” and businessworld efficiency to state government.

In their letter to Garland, the Democrats said “potentially thousands of eligible Virginia voters” were removed.

Virginia is one of a few states that limit voting access after a felony conviction.

The Commonwealth p e r m a n e n t l y disenfranchises those guilty of violent or nonviolent felonies unless the governor restores their civil rights.

Last July State NAACP leaders noted “Against the backdrop of the Commonwealth’s deplorable history of state officials using the power of their offices to prevent Black Virginians from voting, the Virginia NAACP is concerned that the Governor’s new process restores voting rights to some and not others without justification or explanation,” said Virginia NAACP President Robert N. Barnette, Jr. In the 1980s, then Democratic Governor Charles Robb initiated a procedure to simplify the process for restoring voting rights, and all subsequent governors, both Democratic and Republican, expanded on that initiative, until the Youngkin Administration.

Photo: Laura Philion

Colita Fairfax, Helen Phillips Pitts, Reginald Robinson and Judy Leonard stand in front of the new historical marker commemorating Hampton’s Bay Shore Hotel and its place in the Green Book.

In the September 6, 1930, edition of the GUIDE, a story announced the funeral of Drank D. Banks, “Who began the famous resort with four room cottages, 40 years ago, developed a 70-room Sea shore hotel,” on one and a half acre of land on the Buckroe Beach. boardwalk and a legendary dance hall. They say the music was so good that the White vacationers over at Buckroe would jump over the fence to come listen.”

It was a home away from home for people not welcome in other places, a place featured in Green Books used by Black families, including Delegate Ward, who shared her story on the floor of the Virginia House of Delegates.

“And I do hope that Virginians, and Americans and friends from around the world who are traveling, will stop and read each one to learn about the places,” Youngkin said.

Helen Phillips Pitts, the granddaughter of John Mallory Phillips, one of the original investors in the hotel, said she had been emotional all week understanding the role her grandfather had.

Pitts is in her 70s now, and though the hotel is long gone, she says the new marker means history won’t go unnoticed here.

“I had no idea until I was grown that my grandfather was part of this group of men that started Bayshore Beach.”

“You think about your community – what you want for your grandchildren when they grow up – that to me is the most important thing,” Phillips Pitts said. It’s why we have kids to do better than we did in the past.

“It’s about doggone time somebody realized that Bay Shore was important – and who it was important to,” she said.

The hotel and the “Bay Shore Beach” were separated by a white fence across Buckroe Beach, which was reserved for “whites only.”

In the September 6, 1930, edition of the GUIDE, a story announcing the funeral of Drank D. Banks, “Who began the famous resort with four room cottages, 40 years ago, developed a 70-room Sea shore hotel” on one and

a half acre of land on the Buckroe Beach.

The former president of St. Paul’s College, the “principal” of Tuskegee Institute, Robert Moton, and other luminaries spoke highly of Banks at his funeral in the Hampton Institute Chapel.

Banks, a native of Danville, a bookkeeper, and other colleagues at Hampton Institute pooled their resources to buy the land to open the small resort.

The year he died, the 270 feet of waterfront next to the hotel was “the only beach area for Negroes in 1930 in Virginia,” according to a GUIDE article.

Until 1962, the hotel had several names and owners.

The initial ones were The Knights Templars Club and the Bayshore Beach Club.

In 1945, it was bought from a group of whites by 21 Black businessmen who formed the Seaview Beach and Hotel Corporation which included Norfolk’s Real Estate Businessman W. T. Mason, president and lawyer and businessman,

Alabama Continued from page 4A As the Supreme Court noted in its June decision, one problem with Alabama’s argument is that the expert witness used outdated census data – from 2010 instead of 2020 – and ignored certain traditional districting criteria, such as keeping together communities of interest, political subdivisions, or municipalities.

The expert herself testified that when using the correct census data, the “randomized algorithms” she employed “found plans with two majority Black districts in literally thousands of different ways.”

Wilbur O. Watts of Portsmouth, (Safeway Cab), Rev. J.A. Handy and others.

The group invested some $85,000 into expanding the resort complex into the largest one for AfricanAmericans on the East Coast.

(According to the CPI Index) $85,000 in 1945 is equal to $1,453,448.06 today) The company bought 50 acres of undeveloped land to build resort homes for $35,000.

Its last owner’s group was led by Charles H. Wilson, who among others formed the New Bay Shore Corporation.

Williams was constantly fending off accusations that the operations were owned by whites.

The hotel was damaged by harsh hurricanes, but restored; two fires destroyed the dancing pavilion and other parts in the late 1940s; and occasional crosses were burned there by the K.K.K. Content from WHRO News and the GUIDE Archives were used for this article.

The other problem is that the number of possible districting maps in Alabama that can be randomly generated is at least in the “trillion trillions.”

“Two million maps, in other words, is not many maps at all,” Chief Justice John Roberts wrote.

“And Alabama’s insistent reliance on that number, however powerful it may sound in the abstract, is thus close to irrelevant in practice. What would the next million maps show?

The next billion? The first trillion of the trillion trillions?

Answerless questions all.”

It’s appalling that Alabama had any expectation that such a bad-faith argument would succeed before the highest court in the nation, and a victory for both democracy and logic that it did not.

Biden Continued from page 4A White working-class voters are easily exploited by conservative politicians who stand for the wealthy but show little interest in their “small government” rhetoric to help the poor. Gov. Reeves has repeatedly objected to the program’s expansion, sarcastically calling it “welfare” or labeling it “Obamacare.” Medical leaders have pleaded with Mississippi state leaders to expand the program. Economic experts say that Mississippi and nine other states that failed to pass any form of Medicaid expansion would experience an economic boon if state officials expanded the program. The question remains: why do voters continue to keep officials like Reeves in office? It has been 56 years since Kennedy visited the Greenville, Mississippi, region.

Dr. Brett Zepponi, a Delta Health physician, told Mississippi Today that he

considers himself a fiscal conservative but plans to vote for Reeves’ Democratic opponent, Brandon Presley.

Zepponi doesn’t think the Greenville hospital, which has no neonatal center, can last much longer without expanding Medicaid coverage. “For me, it doesn’t come down to a political thing,” Zepponi said. “But it’s more of a people thing. I think Republicans and Democrats both want their family to be taken care of and want their neighbors taken care of.”

During the next election, more conservative voters like Dr. Zepponi need to put the welfare of people first, even if it means voting for the “hated Democrat.” Joe Biden is not Bobby Kennedy. While George Wallace supporters can put aside certain differences in supporting Kennedy, Trump voters must do the same with Joe Biden in 2024.

David W. Marshall is the founder of the faithbased organization TRB: The Reconciled Body and author of the book “God Bless Our Divided America.”

He can be reached at www. davidwmarshallauthor.com

New Journal and Guide

October 19, 2023 - October 25, 2023 | 7A

Malon’s Project: A Grandmother Turns Pain Into Purpose

By Melissa Spellman

We teach eight positive attributes to help move kids from criminality to creativity.”

Fall Intern 2023 New Journal and Guide

JoAnne Cramatie, of Hampton, is a Renaissance woman using all her knowledge and abilities to make a difference in the lives of marginalized and disenfranchised children in the Hampton Roads area. Malon’s Project Inc., her youth organization, is dedicated to her grandson who was senselessly murdered in the summer of 2020. She serves as the Director of Operations of Malon’s Project.

Cramatie is a retired RN Supervisor from the Department of Defense with 44 years of continued service.

She is the founding member of the 54-40 African-American quilting guild in existence since March 1993. She raised her grandson from three months of age into

– JoAnne Cramatie

Photo: Diana Chappell

JoAnne Cramatie

his teenage years taking him to countless doctor appointments, practices, and sporting activities.

Their relationship was special, and her world orbited his. Her world would soon come to a halt.

On August 24, 2020, Malon Aikee Pearson was violently murdered in Hampton and the lives

of his family, friends, and his grandmother JoAnne Cramatie were forever changed.

Malon was 17-years-old, 6’4, and an avid swimmer. He was an all-around athlete playing basketball, baseball, and soccer. His grandmother describes him as having a caring and giving heart.

Malon would sneak his friends in through his bedroom window at night.

“It sounded like deer on the rooftop. I thought he was having a party while I was sleeping,” said Cramatie.

However, she would later learn that his friends were homeless, and he was giving them a place to rest

at night. Groceries would disappear from the home because Marlon was giving food away to his friends.

Cramatie recalls buying groceries on Sundays – a gallon of white milk, a gallon of chocolate milk, and a gallon of orange juice – and by mid-week it was all gone. Then she would get a call from Malon to buy more drinks.

“Wednesday he would call me at work and say ‘You got to bring something to drink. We don’t have nothing to drink in here.’

I’m thinking he drank up 3 gallons of milk. Turns out he was feeding his friends,” said Cramatie. She didn’t realize this until he passed away and his friends came around. Malon was 6’4 and 185 pounds; his grandmother figured he had been drinking and eating all the groceries.

Malon had a diagnosis of ADHD/Autism. He held an affection for teens like himself and those who were homeless and in need of food or shelter. He chose to help them. So, when Malon was murdered, the loss was felt by the community of friends he had built.

Amidst the tragedy Malon’s grandmother and legal guardian decided that she had to do something to remember her grandson. “I decided to start a non-profit organization where I could at least reach some of these kids that are marginalized.

Some of the kids that wanted to feel like they were a part of society,” said Cramatie.

She was cleaning out Malon’s room and found a journal he had written when he was nine or 10-yearsold. In the journal he had a dream of wanting a 14-story building where he could have people like him, who were ADHD diagnosed, come and be themselves.

Malon’s journal read, “I wish for one free house for homeless people and the house will have 14 stories. The 1st floor will be a cafeteria. The 2nd floor will be a game room.”

This journal would become a catalyst for the work of Malon’s Project.

Cramatie shared a condition of many children who are ADHD, Autistic, or have some other learning differences which may cause them to become disruptive in the classroom, leading to their expulsion.

Malon’s Project seeks to aid these children, so they are not left criminalized but instead learn life skills and are treated for their ADHD/ Autism, the underlying cause of their behavior.

Malon’s Project targets teens 13 to 19. The organization offers services such as mental health counseling, after-school services, job training, job preparedness training, life skills coaching, anger management coaching

Banning Continued from page 5A The ban list also includes at least four of Toni Morrison’s books. “The Bluest Eye” has appeared several times, in 2006, 2013, 2014, and 2020. “Beloved,” Morrison’s Pulitzer Prizewinning 1987 novel, is also on the 2006 and 2012 lists. And in the mid-1990s, “Song of Solomon” was repeatedly challenged in school districts in Colorado, Florida, and Georgia for “inappropriate” and “explicit” material.

In Oct. 2021, a Virginia mom who tried to get “Beloved” banned from her son’s high school in 2013 was featured in an ad for then-gubernatorial

Photo: Diana Chappell

Cramatie and on of her many handmade quilts sessions, and many other personalized services.

Cramatie discussed more about the work Malon’s Project is doing. “We have gone into the Hampton juvenile center and taught a 17-week creative writing class. We have four adults that we train on Monday evenings so that they can help us as volunteers and go into the different community centers to teach,” she said.

Malon’s Project seeks to instill eight positive attitudes which are honesty, humility, gratitude, objectivity, caring, responsibility, open-mindedness, and willingness. “We teach eight positive attributes to help move kids from criminality to creativity,” Cramatie added.

Malon’s Project is a non-profit and faith-based organization.

Cramatie plans to meet with a delegate from Newport News as well as Virginia Beach Probation to discuss growing Malon’s Project. The goal is to have three to four creative writing classes going on in each of the seven cities. The organization wants to partner with schools, churches, and juvenile services.

There is a creative writing class starting soon at West Hampton Community Center on Mondays and Wednesdays from 5-7

p.m. The class will teach creative writing on Monday and music appreciation on Wednesday. It’s a 6-to-8week class. Teens will learn to write their own songs and make their own beats.

Parents who want to get their children involved in Malon’s Project can visit the website to sign up at malonsproject.com. This organization wants to help teens create a professional plan to show them the tools and skills they need to get them to their desired career destination.

Malon’s Project keeps Cramatie moving forward with her commitment to the youth, but it is her quilting that brings her peace.

JoAnne Cramatie exhibits the strength, resolve, and reverence of a queen serving her community through her work with Malon’s Project Inc. and serving as founder and original member of the only African American Quilters Guild in Virginia. She is a master quilter, a skill she learned at the feet of her grandmother who was born in 1875, ten years after slavery ended. Each year Cramatie creates a quilt to raffle off as a fundraiser for Malon’s Project.

To learn more about Malon’s Project and how you can help, volunteer, or donate visit malonsproject. com.

Photo: Diana Chappell

Malon’s journal candidate Glenn Youngkin, who made education a core part of his platform. He won the governorship the next month. (In 2016 and 2017, then-Gov. Terry McAuliffe – Youngkin’s opponent in the 2021 election—had vetoed so-called “Beloved bills,” efforts to enable parents to opt their children out from reading sexuallyexplicit novels at schools.)

Other books are on the ban list: “The Catcher in the Rye,” “To Kill a Mockingbird,” “The Bluest Eye” – and new releases such as “The Hate U Give” and “Thirteen Reasons Why.” PEN estimates that more than 3,300 books were banned in the 2022-2023 school year, a 33 percent increase from the previous school year. Since libraries and schools buy a massive number of books, the ban

is impactful if some of the largest school districts refuse to buy a book. This means the book ban is putting some books out of print.

“In writing Caste, I had to do a tremendous amount of research into India and Germany during the Nazi era,” Wilkerson told O Magazine. “The Nazis studied the United States’ Jim Crow laws in creating the Nuremberg laws. We are coming perilously close to the spirit of what they were doing in another century with the banning of books.

It’s revisiting a past that we should never want to experience again.”

Wilkerson added, “Closing ourselves off to information and history is not the solution. We need to overcome our divisions by opening up, not shutting down, discussion.”

New Journal and Guide

8A | October 19, 2023 - October 25, 2023

CELEBRATIONS Kurt Williams Honored For His Service HAMPTON ROADS WTKR News 3’s anchor Kurt Williams was honored recently for over 25 years in television by being inducted into the Silver Circle Group of the National Capital Chesapeake Chapter of the National Academy of Television Arts and Sciences.

To be eligible for the Silver Circle, you must have 25 years under your belt in television.

Williams began his journey at WTKR in 1987 and has spent the past 36 years with the CBS affiliate.

Photo: Ernest Lowery

(L-R) Clarence F. Nelson, Jr. and Dr. George F. Reed

Norfolk Chapter, Kappas, Honor Their Own

HAMPTON ROADS The Norfolk Alumni Chapter (NAC) of Kappa Alpha Psi Fraternity’s Save Our Youth Foundation, Inc. hosted its First Scholarship and Achievement Black Tie Gala on Saturday, October 14 at the Delta Hotel in Chesapeake.

The theme for the inaugural year gala was “Leaving a Legacy, Building into Generations to Come.”

Three recipients were honored during the event.

Kappa Alpha Psi will recognize the lifetime achievements of Clarence F. Nelson, Jr., a community servant leader, youth mentor, and philanthropist.

A community service award will be presented to Dr. George F. Reed, a

retired educator, mentor, nonprofit consultant, and community servant leader.

The corporate philanthropy award will be presented to the Sentara Foundation for its extraordinary support of Kappa Alpha Psi’s nonprofit endeavors.

The Norfolk Kappa chapter has been offering scholarships since 1982 to help remove the financial barriers for Black males who desire to go to college.

Over the years, their Save Our Youth Foundation, founded in 2005, has provided more than $120,000 in scholarships and grants to area youths and adults. Funds from this year’s event will allow the foundation to enlarge its ability to give more scholarships.

Before WTRK, Williams got his start at Georgia State University’s WRAS Radio, where he took on the role of News Director.

William’s ambition drove him to seek additional experiences, working at WREG, a nearby radio station, and Cable DeKalb, an Atlanta community affairs channel.

In Chattanooga, Tennessee, he filled multiple roles at WDEFTV, including producer, weekend anchor, reporter, editor and prompter operator.

Pictured above is WTKR News Managing Editor Barbara Ciara attaching the Golden Circle Pin on Kurt Williams.

BOOKER T. WASHINGTON HIGH CLASS OF 1968 CELEBRATES ITS 55TH CLASS REUNION

Special to the Guide

NORFOLK The Booker T. Washington High School Class of 1968 (BTW’68) celebrated their 55th Class Reunion with three fantastic days of events on September 22-24, 2023. The festivities began with classmates, family and friends gathering at the Springhill Suites Greenbrier for a “Meet & Greet” with dancing, an assortment of foods, drinks

and an opportunity to reignite that “Old BOOKER T. SPIRIT!” On September 23 the BTW’68 Class enjoyed an evening of fine dining and dancing in the hotel’s maroon and white elegantly decorated ballroom.

It was a grand time shared by everyone. A special congratulatory letter was shared from the office of Norfolk’s Mayor, Kenny Alexander and the BTW Class of 1972.

Guests

included former BTW’68 high school teachers: William Delk and Wivona Ward.

On Sunday, September 24, classmates and former BTW Teacher, Thaddeus Rhodes worshiped at the Historic First Baptist Church Bute Street, Norfolk, Va. where Reverend Jerry Holmes, Interim Pastor, blessed us with an inspirational message. Later that afternoon, BTW’68’s culminating reunion

celebration activity was an old fashion cookout at Elizabeth River Park where classmates and guest had a grand old-time dancing, feasting and continuing the awesome BTW Alumni bonding.

To be able to celebrate 55 years of anything is a blessing. To celebrate by being surrounded by classmates, family members and friends is a blessing that supersedes words: WE ARE THE MIGHTY BOOKERS!

New Journal and Guide

October 19, 2023 - October 25, 2023 | Section B

SECTION B

COMMUNITY & MORE ...

FRIENDSHIP BAPTIST CHURCH UNVEILS PLANS FOR COMMUNITY LIFE CENTER ...see page 3B

NSU Hosts Gala To Name Tennis Center After Legendary Coach Warren NORFOLK On Saturday, October 14, Norfolk State University honored Coach Nat Warren with a black tie gala that renamed its tennis center The Nat Warren Tennis Center. The capacity crowd gathered at the Norfolk Yacht Club to pay gratitude to the retired coach who has been instrumental in the growth of the university’s tennis program.

New Journal and Guide Winter 2022 Intern Jaylen Scott interviewed Coach Warren in October 2022 just before the Pro-Am Tennis tournament which raised $15,000 for the program. This money was earmarked to help make improvements for the program and provide

what was needed for the players, whether that was for scholarship, clothing, supplies, etc.

Scott sat down with Warren himself, who said that the Pro-Am Tennis tournament event was enjoyable, and that he was happy to be able to see how the Tennis Program is growing after his retirement in 2009. When asked about the event, he said that he was inspired by the current NSU

president, Dr. Javaune Adams-Gaston’s, speech at the Cavalier Yacht Club.

“I always had my heart in NSU, but her speeches helped me put not only my heart but my soul as well.”

He was also approached by the current head coach, Peter Banas.

Warren became the head coach of the Men’s and Women’s tennis program in 1992 when he was approached by Dr. Wilson, who was the President at that time. From that point on he has been funding money for the program.

“I started off raising the money for the program. I knew that I needed to raise money each year,” Warren said. Back when Warren was still the coach, he hosted similar Tennis and

Golf tournaments for the program, When asked about his time as a coach, he said that he had three goals when starting the program: To make sure that each student got a good education, that they reached the level of tennis that would reward them, and to win a conference championship and National championship.

Warren said he wishes for a strong bond to be created between the coach, the players, and the Tidewater community.

He would like to show support for his wife, Liz, his two daughters, Charrise and Chessie, and his five grandchildren who supported him during his 18 years of coaching.

New Journal and Guide

2B | October 19, 2023 - October 25, 2023

NEW MT. OLIVE BAPTIST CHURCH LOCAL VOICES WILL “PAINT THE CITY PINK” Why Is Coach Ron Jenkins NOT WITH COMMUNITY CANCER WALK

By Melissa Spellman Fall Intern 2023 New Journal and Guide

New Mt. Olive Baptist Church will host a Chesapeake Community Cancer walk on October 21, 2023, at 9 a.m. located at Chesapeake City Park. The theme of this event, “Paint The City Pink” is love, hope and strength.

Senior Pastor Rev. Jonathan Foster and the Executive Team of New Mt. Olive wanted to establish a community walk that would meet the needs of the citizens in the City of Chesapeake.

“We’ve had a lot of casualties. A lot of members in our church have passed away. Since I have been here, I buried four members due to cancer in my five years pastoring here,” said Foster.

He continued, “My mother passed away from cancer when I was 12 and both of my aunts passed away from

Rev. Jonathan Foster Senior Pastor cancer. And it’s very prevalent in the African-American community.”

New Mt. Olive reached out to Priority Toyota Cancer Center who agreed to partner with them in this Paint the City Pink event.

“We ultimately wanted to do something very small at the start.” After considering various locations around the city the idea grew, “to

a partnership with Toyota Priority Cancer Center and now it has just blown up,” said Pastor Foster.

This initiative differs from other national cancer walks because the proceeds will go to help the citizens of Chesapeake who are battling cancer. “We wanted to do a walk in Chesapeake and make sure the money that was raised in Chesapeake goes back to an organization fighting cancer in Chesapeake,” explained Pastor Foster.

To register for the cancer walk visit Eventbrite.com and search Chesapeake Community Cancer Walk up guests can register in person on Oct. 21 the day of the event.

Come Paint the City Pink with Mt. Olive Baptist Church in Chesapeake City Park. Enjoy music, games, food, and a family balloon releasing. Let’s come together to honor cancer survivors and raise awareness about reducing cancer risks.’

NORFOLK SISTER CITY ASSOCIATION HIGHLIGHTED IN CITY PROCLAMATION NORFOLK Norfolk Sister City Association was recognized in a proclamation on October 14 from the city’s Mayor Dr. Kenneth Alexander in honor of Sister Cities International Day. The local Norfolk association is part of a global network of partnerships with cities in Japan, Germany, the UK, France, India, Ghana, Philippines, Canada, and China. Executive Director Jennifer Priest accepted the proclamation.

Sister Cities International has nearly 500 member cities, counties, and states with over 2,000 partnership in more than 140

countries. It dates to 1956 when President Dwight Eisenhower founded the association with the goal

of promoting global-led community relationships that would lessen the chance of international conflicts.

Morgan State Alumni Assn. To Host Fall Scholarship Fundraiser HAMPTON ROADS The South Hampton Roads Alumni Chapter of Morgan State University will host its 2023 Fall Scholarship Fundraiser Concert on Sunday, Oct. 22, 2023, at 3:30 p.m., at Mt. Zion Baptist Church, 900 Middlesex Street, Norfolk. The concert will feature the NSU Vocal Jazz Ensemble and Eric

Taylor, Gospel Violinist.

Ticket/donations are $20.

The Mistress of Ceremonies is Mrs. Bonita Billingsley Harris, Regional Policy Director, Dominion Energy. Her father, Dr. Andrew Billingsley, now 97 years old, was the eighth president of Morgan State University. He and his wife will attend.

In The VHSL Hall of Fame?

They know full well they have When Coach Jenkins won the first ever back-toonly had ONE back state championships (1990-1991) in the BEACH two-time state district’s long existence in Virginia AAA basketball championshiphistory, the state, the Beach district’s other coaches and winning coach principals were not happy EVER walk the that BAYSIDE High School, a predominantly BLACK Sean C. Bowers Bayside halls and school, a BLACK team and especially, a BLACK coach accomplished the feat twice. can formally and publicly that is Coach RON In short, they ol’ school white- nominate Coach Ron Jenkins JENKINS. washed history. Let’s set the for the VHSL Hall of Fame.

By Sean C. Bowers

record straight!

Flatly put, Coach Jenkins has not been inducted because he has never been nominated.

The Nomination process rules dictate that a current Virginia High School League Coach or Principal must nominate potential honorees. Those who worked with Coach Jenkins at the time dropped the ball, didn’t care enough, or perhaps were too lazy or jealous to do the right thing.

Most of his contemporaries are retired now, as Jenkins himself retired from teaching in 2014.

The question remains: Why has Bayside NEVER nominated its BEST multiple state title winning championship coach? In a strange twist of fate the current Bayside H.S. principal, Troy Watson, was the basketball coach replacement for Coach Jenkins back when he retired from coaching. That (WHITE) principal knows just how hard it is to be a winning coach at Bayside from his one season’s dismal outcome.

He now has the power in his hands to make things right.

By doing these two things for the BAYSIDE community HE NOW SERVES: He

He could also name the Bayside H.S. basketball court after Coach Ron Jenkins, thereby justly honoring the two-time state championship banner-hanging program of sustained excellence he built.

This reporter has repeatedly approached the entire Bayside H.S. administration (from the Athletic Director, to the Sports Information Director, to the Student Activities Coordinator, to the past principals over the past ten years. Each person offered the exact (almost scripted and rehearsed sounding) excuse, “We can’t name everything after coaches who won championships.” They know full well they have only had ONE two-time state championship-winning coach EVER walk the Bayside halls and that is Coach RON JENKINS. First Colonial H.S. named their football field after their coach Frank Webster, and he never won two state titles. Stop making disingenuous excuses that make the entire Bayside H.S. community, the school, the Beach district, and the VHSL appear racist.

This could be a GIGANTIC oversight by the VHSL, the

Beach District, those former coaches who Coach Jenkins out-coached on the way to his 400 wins. It is an internal Bayside H.S. legacy that needs to be remedied and acknowledged so that Bayside High School might recognize its own best sports history.

REMEMBER Ron Jenkins was recruited, transferred and hired by the V.B. Schools Superintendent (Mr. Brickell) specifically to go to the Beach District’s door mat (Bayside) and develop the basketball program in 1985. He built that repeat championship-winning banner-hanging program within six seasons. Mission accomplished.

Two statistics tell us all we need to know about Coach Jenkins. 1. He never got a technical foul in all his 35 years of coaching (controlled composure.) 2. In the 1991 state championship game’s 4th quarter, with Jenkins’ Bayside team down ten points, they held their opponents scoreless for the entire quarter, coming back win that second state title in a row, a VHSL state tournament record which still stands to this day. ...see VHSL, page 3B

New Journal and Guide

October 19, 2023 - October 25, 2023 | 3B

Flatly put, Coach Jenkins has not been inducted because he Continued from page 2B has never been nominated. The Nomination process rules dictate Before working at Bayside H.S., that a current Virginia High School Coach Jenkins, built c h a m p i o n s h i p - c o l l e g e - League Coach or Principal must scholarship-receiving players for twelve years nominate potential honorees.

VHSL

at Virginia Beach Middle School (7th-9th grades then.) He did so for both the boys’ and girls’ basketball and track programs with epic All-American players Mr. Guy Morgan (Wake Forrest) and Ms. Gimi Galin (South Carolina).

Jenkins built responsible respectful men from boys, and accomplished young ladies from girls.

Countless players coached by Coach Jenkins’ (like me), went on to earn full scholarships and play championship winning college basketball after his uniquely impactful tutelage. Most importantly, Jenkins was the answered prayer of countless Virginia Beach single Moms (like mine) who needed a positive male role model to help focus their youngsters for positive results in the midst of adversity. Coach J. is still a revered father figure by generations of those he taught and coached (over his 40years’ service) in many Virginia Beach homes to this day.

Throughout his career, Coach Jenkins stressed team, education, family, and God. This straightforward approach worked because he

practiced what he preached.

A quiet, unassuming man, Ron Jenkins would never press for these honors, so those of who have benefited most from his commitment, are asking on his behalf.

Coach’s presence in my life has been that of guiding lighthouse, always leading and showing the best way forward. Nearly one hundred former players and coaches showed up at a retirement party from teaching and coaching at Bayville H.S. The party was arranged by his former players. That so many showed up all those years later is a testament to the lives he touched, empowered, and helped change for the better.

Ms. Brenda Andrews, publisher of the New Journal and Guide for the past 35 years, has formally recognized Coach Ron Jenkins at the party, as one of the 2014 “Impacting Lives Award” honorary recipients. It’s time NOW for the Bayside High School staff to fully honor YOUR SCHOOL’S BEST in history! It is time to do the right thing. Step up for one of the people

who helped turn around more lives for good from the Bayside/Lake Edwards community.

It’s time for HALL OF FAMER, Coach Ron Jenkins, to be NOMINATED, INDUCTED, honored and recognized across the state. Coach Jenkin’s records speak for themselves. It’s time for BAYSIDE to do the right thing, just like Coach Ron Jenkins always taught and coached us to do.

Sean C. Bowers has written the last 25 years, as a White Quaker Southern man, for the nation’s third oldest Black Newspaper, The New Journal and Guide, of Norfolk, Virginia, about overcoming racism, sexism, classism, and religious persecution.

Some of his latest NJ&G articles detailing the issues can found by searching “Sean C. Bowers” on the NJ&G website. Contact him directly on social media at Linkedin.com or by email V1ZUAL1ZE@ aol.com NNPA 2019 Publisher of the Year, Brenda H. Andrews (NJ&G 35 years) has always been his publisher.

OBITUARY

Social Justice Activist and Businessman, Anthony Gene Lewis, Passes Anthony Gene Lewis, a local social justice activist and printer passed away on Sunday, October 15, 2023 at Sentara Leigh Hospital in Norfolk.

Anthony, a graduate of Christiansburg Institute in southwest Virginia, was the eleventh child of the late Ray and Regina Casey Lewis, born in New River, VA, on April 23, 1948. After a 4 year tour in the U.S. Navy Anthony settled down in Norfolk, VA. He was a quiet warrior but a fierce advocate for the rights of oppressed people in the US and internationally.

While still in the military Anthony was a leading organizer of a Boycott against the offloading of “Rhodesian” Coal at the Ports of Virginia Upon leaving the military Anthony joined with other local activists, namely Diana Chappell and Carolyn Chesson Johnson, to form the Black Vanguard Resource Center.

The organization was a leading member of the

Anthony G. Lewis United Congress Against the Death Penalty, the ZANU Support Committee, the NATO out of Africa protest, the call for Norfolk to divest of its pension funds from apartheid South Africa, the prisoner support movement, and later the anti-gun violence movement.

For over a decade the organization sponsored the African Feast at Norfolk State University which raised funds, and medical supplies for refugees in southern Africa.

Anthony may be best known as the owner and operator of People’s Press/ Atlantic Lithography. He was a perfectionist who was known for his attention to layout and design details.

He gave the same love and attention to his customers whether it was a small community organization, a political campaign, mega church or social gatherings.

Anthony was a faithful member and printer for the 200 Plus Men. He was married to Diana Chappell of Norfolk; with one step daughter Ayanna Chappell Griffin, and two grandchildren whom he adored.

A funeral service will be held on October 28th, at First Missionary Baptist Church in New River, Virginia; funeral procedures are being handled

by Riddicks Funeral Service of Norfolk.

For additional information please contact Richard Lewis at (540) 250-7940 or Diana Chappell at (757) 343-3358.

Photo: Courtesy

Pastor Norris (2nd from right) with Councilwoman Johnson and members of his church team.

Friendship Baptist Church Unveils Plans For Community Life Center

By Melissa Spellman Fall Intern 2023 New Journal and Guide

Friendship Baptist Church hosted a Render and Reveal launch on September 30, 2023, to plan for the construction of a community center. Pastor Greg Norris is in his 28th year as Senior Pastor at Friendship Baptist located at 3834 E. Princess Anne Road in Norfolk. This launch event shared the vision for this new facility with the community.

Many people were in attendance including Norfolk Councilwoman Mamie Johnson and Delegate Angelia Williams Graves.

Councilwoman Johnson and Delegate Graves shared their desire to help through the process and protocol to bring this 5-million-dollar project into fruition.

The building will be called The Strong Tower Community Life Center. “It’s going to be a fully functional facility. It’s not just going to be pretty on the outside it’s going to be for multipurpose use,” said Pastor Norris.

The vision and planning for The Strong Tower Community Life Center was not without a comprehensive evaluation of the needs of the community it will serve.

Pastor Norris began his research by going out into the community, talking to the civic leagues, and talking to the people in the community in Coleman Place and Estabrook to find out what it is that they desire to have in a community center.

Engaging with senior citizens and the youth in the community provided perspective on what to include in this new facility. “There’s no place for them to go and just sit down and have a cup of coffee or a sandwich,” said Pastor Norris upon speaking with seniors. “I compiled all this information. I talked to young people and asked them what they would like” he added.

This ambitious project will meet the needs of the community in ways that will enhance the lives of the people in the community. It will serve

Photo: Courtesy

Future Site of Outreach Ministry of Friendship Baptist Church as a safe place for seniors and the youth. Pastor Norris shared details of the plans.

One feature of The Strong Tower will be a cafeteria for senior citizens called the Crown and Glory Café. Here seniors can come and be safe, sit down, fellowship with one another, have somewhere to eat, and enjoy a cup of coffee.

This community life center will indeed be full of life. It will be a two-story building that will house a half court gymnasium, a full commercial kitchen, a daycare, preschool, afterschool care, a recording studio, cinema theater, indoor track, indoor playground, a fitness weight room, and a rooftop with outdoor dining.

In addition to showers, a laundromat, and kitchen serving area. These amenities will offer the homeless a place to shower, wash their clothes, and receive a nutritional meal.

This community center is “also for other churches that may not have the facility and they need to have functions or venues. That is what Strong Tower is there for. If they need to have a wedding or reception, it’s going to be a one stop shop,” proclaimed Pastor Norris.

Filled with excitement and a sense of urgency he discussed other initiatives, “We’re going to have a daycare. A tremendous daycare center to help with our young ladies that may not be able to afford daycare.” Pastor Norris wants to create an initiative where a portion of money paid towards daycare will go to help families purchase a home.

The Strong Tower will also include a barber shop and salon.

Introductory training classes will be available where youth can learn a trade as a barber, or in plumbing, electrical, and carpentry.

“We want to take the guns out of these young boys’ hands and give them another tool, a trade. On top of all that we want to give them the gospel of Jesus Christ. That is the main thing. If we can give them the gospel in a way where they can actually see a change because if I can change your mind I can change your destiny,” said Pastor Norris.

The hope is to build this new facility in the next 5 years. This project is in the foundational stages. However, the plans have energized people. Pastor Norris commented, “Some people have already started to give. They are excited about it. It’s going to take us to make this thing happen. I hope I get to see it in my lifetime.”

The promise of what The Strong Tower will bring to the surrounding communities of Friendship Baptist Church gives an overwhelming feeling of hopefulness and joy, said Pastor Norris. He leaves the community with these words, “If anybody who is interested in making a change and to help see this thing come to past donations are more than welcomed. We are trying to make a difference in the community where we are. We can’t do it all but at least we can do something.

A seed that is not planted is a harvest that you will never see.”

New Journal and Guide

4B | October 19, 2023 - October 25, 2023

MOMENTS of MEDITATION

By Rev. Dr. Archie L. Edwards, Sr.

2 JOHN: A LETTER TO A LADY A Survey of 2 John. The two most difficult things to get straight in life, Eugene Peterson writes, “are love and God. More often than not, the mess people make of their lives can be traced to failure or stupidity or meanness in one or both of these areas.”

Is it any wonder, then, that john had to write about these topics not once, not twice, but three times? In this second epistle, John corrects a loving ‘lady” whose hospitality may have actually been harming the cause of the Gospel.

Lacking discernment, she had allowed her love to spill over the boundaries of truth – the truth about God revealed in Jesus Christ. And when the borders of the truth get washed away, people are set adrift in dangerous waters rather than moved from death to life.

The Writer. John identifies himself only as “the elder,” which can refer to his age or his religious office – or both. As the sole surviving Apostle, John was a highly esteemed and well-loved patriarch of the churches in Asia. His gentle language and pastoral style indelibly mark this letter, which is perhaps why he didn’t have to sign his name – the people knew he was the author. As a modern

clergyman might sign a letter to his congregation simply, “Your Pastor,” the omission of john’s name actually lends intimacy and warmth to his message.

The Recipients.

He addresses his brief words to “the chosen lady and her children.” Bible scholars debate whether the “lady” and “children” are actual people or metaphors for the church and its members. Elsewhere in the New Testament, the church is personified as a woman (see Ephesians 5:22-32; Revelation 19:7), and John often spoke to his readers as “children” (see 1 John 2:1, 12, 13, 18, 28:3:1, 2, 7, 10, 18; 4:4; 5:2, 21). However, personal references, such as “lady” (2 John 5), her “house” (v. 10), and her “sister” (v.

13) could indicate that John is writing to a literal woman.

This latter approach is the one we will take.

Like Lydia in the book of Acts (see 16:14-15, 40), this lady of 2 John was a gracious hostess, opening her home for the sake of the ministry.

Her love flowed freely to anyone who knocked on her door, including the traveling teachers and prophets who came to town.

The Situation. Before the New Testament was complete,

Christians depended on itinerant prophets and teachers to communicate the divine truth they needed to build their faith. They revered these traveling preachers often housing and feeding them in the finest style they could afford. Unfortunately, not all the roving reverends were worthy of such warm hospitality. It was not uncommon for fraudulent men to exploit the trusting Christians.

John had heard that some of these insidious “Christ mongers” were welcomed into this woman’s home.

Naively, she was taking them in, not realizing that by doing so she was helping spread heresy. While affirming her charitable spirit, John sends her an urgent message: Make sure your love supports the truth.

The Letter. John’s epistle can be divided into four sections: An introduction (2 John 1-3), exhortations to walk in truth and love (vv.

4-6), instruction to stand against error (vv. 7-11), and a conclusion (vv. 12 -13).

Introduction (vv. 1-3). At the outset, John expresses his deep feelings for his readers: (vv. 1-2). His love for this lady and her children is grounded “in truth.” It is proper. It is pure. It reflects the reality of Christ.

Exhortations (vv. 4-6).

John next commends the lady’s children (v. 4). Notice, only some are walking in truth. Apparently, others are straying from it – and that’s where the problems lie. In verses 5-6, John reminds this lady to love others – but in the way Christ prescribed, “according to His commandments” (v. 6). ...see 2 John, page 6B

REBECCA’S WELL BY REV. DR. REBECCA R. RIVKA

MAJOR BIBLE PRAYER TITLES FROM GENESIS TO REVELATION INTRODUCTION Dear Sisters and Brothers, While preparing a sermon titled “The Prayer Power Of A Holy Church,” I discovered in the subject reference of The Scofield Bible that the entire passage was called a “Bible Prayer.” That location led me to the next prayer and so forth, until I had traced and compiled all of the Major Bible Prayers in The Scofield Study Bible. I was beside myself with glee that the Holy Spirit had guided me to a new learning. So I have assigned a title to each Major Bible Prayer and listed only the titles in biblical chronological order. The recording of entire prayers is to global for this space. You may select specific prayers to read and study or you may use the entire listing as a purposeful guide for reading through the bible. I found 54 Major OT and 39 Major NT Bible Prayers. I saw the various words and language formations that the prophets, apostles, royalty and simply ordinary people used to give praise, adoration and thanksgiving or to petition our God for help

Rev. Dr. Rebecca R. Rivka in the time of great need or peril. We can use their ways of praying to help us in our prayer needs. We are praying no differently today. The same problems, situations, or perils exist today somewhere in the world. And we certainly need to continually acknowledge the God of Grace and God of Glory in our own lives.

Some OT Prayers are included in one or more books, e.g., Hezekiah’s prayers for protection and recovery are found in II Kings, II Chronicles, and the book of Isaiah.

Solomon’s dedication of the temple is located in I Kings and II Chronicles.

In the New Testament, the same prayer may be included in all the Synoptic Gospels in that they all give the same basic view of the Historic Jesus.

Bible Prayers teach us to pray about everything – how to marry well or who we should not marry – who should remain single – how to invest time, talents and resources in self and others and soforth. Referring again to the sermon text and Bible Prayer (ACTS 4:31) which lead to this writing – if the modern day church will model the prayer zeal and power of that early holy church, we will be revived with Holy Ghost power to turn this world upside down. And God’s presence and power will permeate this universe.

When threatened and commanded not to speak again or to teach in the Name of Jesus – Peter, John and The Assembly prayed: “And when they had prayed, the place was shaken where they were assembled together; and they were all filled with the Holy Ghost and they spoke the Word of God with boldness.”(Acts 4:31) This same anointing (presence and power of the Holy Spirit) is available to the church of Jesus Christ today for empowerment, e n l i g h t e n m e n t , evangelism and spiritual maturity.

Blessings and Shalom ... to be continued

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2 John Continued from page 4B Instruction (vv. 7-11).

And it is Christ, and the accuracy of His Gospel, that should be our primary concern (2 John 7-9).

Although these teachers (apparently Gnostics) spoke respectfully of Christ, they denied the truth about Him. And were thus really against Him and His teaching – “anti-Christ.” They went beyond Christ’s teaching, adding their own ideas and twisting His words.

By showing love to these false teachers, the lady was, in fact, aiding the enemy.

Conclusion (vv. 12-13).

With his characteristic warmth, John concludes his letter with hope and joy (vv. 12-13). In a day of relativism and tolerance, John’s briefest letter sounds the loudest wake up call. Be courageous!

Stand for what God says is right! Telling someone the truth may be difficult, but, in the long run, it is the most loving thing to do.

Rev. Dr. Archie L. Edwards, Sr., is an Associate Minister at Second Calvary Baptist Church in Norfolk.

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CONTRACT ID #: C00117011DB130 BRISTOL AND SALEM DISTRICTS BRIDGE BUNDLE

The Virginia Department of Transportation (VDOT) is seeking Statements of Qualifications for the Bristol and Salem Districts Bridge Bundle design-build project from qualified and experienced respondents with design and construction experience of bridges.

The project has four bridges located in the Bristol District with the proposed improvements including complete replacement of the following bridges: Route 669 over Big Moccasin Creek in Scott County, Route 624 over North Fork Clinch River in Scott County, Route 671 over Harris Branch Creek in Wythe County, and Route 806 over Coal Creek in Tazewell County. The project has three bridges located in the Salem District with the proposed improvements including complete replacement of the following bridges: Route 881 over Little Reed Island Creek in Carroll County, Route 692 over Craig Creek in Craig County, and Route 663 over Crab Creek in Montgomery County. The project does not increase the traffic capacity of current roads and bridges. The work includes but not limited to: roadway and bridge design, survey, environmental, geotechnical, hydraulics and stormwater management, traffic control devices, transportation management plan, utility relocation, public involvement/relations and stakeholder coordination, quality assurance and quality control, construction engineering and inspection, and overall project management.

Questions/clarifications regarding the Request for Qualifications (RFQ) should be submitted to Daniel McBride, P.E. (daniel.mcbride@ vdot.virginia.gov).

Copies of the RFQ and additional submittal requirements can be found on Bid Express (bidexpress.com) The Department assures compliance with Title VI requirements of non-discrimination in all activities pursuant to this advertisement.

FUN PUZZLE FOR YOUR LEISURE

PR2108-108-24

The Norfolk Redevelopment and Housing Authority will receive bids for the “NRHA Mid-Rise Apartments Common Area Flooring Replacement” The Scope of work includes all supervision, labor, materials, and equipment necessary to remove the existing flooring and cove base and replace with New Flooring at Bobbitt Mid-Rise 5920 Poplar Hall Dr., Norfolk, VA 23502, Hunter Square Mid-Rise 825 Goff St., Norfolk, VA 23504, Partrea Mid-Rise 701 Easy St. Norfolk, VA 23505 and Sykes Mid-Rise 555 E. Liberty St. Norfolk, VA. Furnish all labor, materials, and equipment as necessary to complete all work indicated, including, but not limited to: Related finish work and the full scope of work is described in the Contract Documents.

A pre-bid meeting will be conducted on October 26, 2023 at 1:00 PM outside of 5920 Poplar Hall Dr. Norfolk, VA and moved to 825 Goff St. Norfolk, VA 23504. All prospective bidders are strongly encouraged to attend.

Please contact Lorenzo Green, Construction Project Manager (lgreen@nrha.us) for any related questions.

All questions must be received on November 8, 2023 by 2:00 PM. Sealed Bids will be received, publicly opened and read aloud on November 16, 2023 at 11:00 AM local prevailing time at the office of the Norfolk Redevelopment and Housing Authority, 910 Ballentine Boulevard, Norfolk, Virginia.

Contract documents will be available for review by appointment only at the NRHA Office of Economic Opportunities, Calvert Square Envision Center, 975 Bagnall Road, Norfolk, VA (please call (757) 314-2026 to schedule); Builders and Contractors Exchange, Norfolk, VA; and on the Virginia Procurement Website (www.eva.virginia.gov). A thumb drive will be available from NRHA, 910 Ballentine Blvd., Norfolk, VA for the non-refundable price of twelve dollars (Company Check Only).

NRHA provides equal housing and employment opportunities for all persons.

NRHA does not discriminate against any applicant, resident or employee on the basis race, color, religion, national origin, sex, elderliness, familial status, disability, source of funds, sexual orientation, gender identity, veteran status, personal appearance, marital status, political affiliation, matriculation, place of residence or business in the admission or access to or operations of programs, services or activities.

NRHA complies with Title VI of the Civil Rights Act and the Americans with Disabilities Act. An internal grievance procedure is available to resolve complaints. If you feel you have been discriminated against, you have the right to file a complaint of discrimination with the Office of Fair Housing and Equal Opportunity by calling toll free (800) 669-9777.

Qualified individuals who need communication aids, services or other accommodations to participate in programs and activities are invited to make your needs known to 504/ADA Coordinator Corey Brooks at (757) 623-1111, TDD: (800) 545-1833. Please give NRHA seven business days advance notice to meet your needs.

INVITATION FOR BIDS PR2204-204-24

The Norfolk Redevelopment and Housing Authority will receive bids for the “NRHA Partrea Elevator Upgrades and Additions.”

The scope of work includes all supervision, labor, material, and equipment necessary to upgrade three existing elevators and addition of three new elevators at Partrea Mid-Rise located at 701 Easy Street Norfolk, VA 23505. The work for this project includes but is not limited to repairs and upgrades to the existing hydraulic elevators in apartment building, new HVAC systems for the elevator machine room, miscellaneous repairs in the hoist-ways, and other additional work as indicated in the contract documents. The full scope of work is described in the Contract Documents.

A pre-bid meeting will be conducted on October 25, 2023 at 11 A.M. at Partrea Mid-Rise 701 Easy Street, Norfolk VA 23505. All prospective bidders are strongly encouraged to attend.

Please contact Randy Hill, NRHA Senior Construction Project Manager (rhill@nrha.us) for any related questions. All questions must be received by 11:00 AM, November 2, 2023.

Sealed Bids will be received, publicly opened, and read aloud on November 20, 2023, at 11:00 AM local prevailing time at the office of the Norfolk Redevelopment and Housing Authority, 910 Ballentine Boulevard, Norfolk, Virginia.

Contract documents will be available for review by appointment only at the NRHA Office of Economic Opportunities, Calvert Square Envision Center, 975 Bagnall Road, Norfolk, VA (please call (757) 314-2026 to schedule); Builders and Contractors Exchange, Norfolk, VA; and on the Virginia Procurement Website (www.eva.virginia.gov). A thumb drive will be available from NRHA, 910 Ballentine Blvd., Norfolk, VA for the non-refundable price of twelve dollars (Company Check Only).

NRHA provides equal housing and employment opportunities for all persons.

NRHA does not discriminate against any applicant, resident or employee on the basis race, color, religion, national origin, sex, elderliness, familial status, disability, source of funds, sexual orientation, gender identity, veteran status, personal appearance, marital status, political affiliation, matriculation, place of residence or business in the admission or access to or operations of programs, services or activities.

NRHA complies with Title VI of the Civil Rights Act and the Americans with Disabilities Act. An internal grievance procedure is available to resolve complaints. If you feel you have been discriminated against, you have the right to file a complaint of discrimination with the Office of Fair Housing and Equal Opportunity by calling toll free (800) 669-9777.

Qualified individuals who need communication aids, services or other accommodations to participate in programs and activities are invited to make your needs known to 504/ADA Coordinator Corey Brooks at (757) 623-1111, TDD: (800) 545-1833. Please give NRHA seven business days advance notice to meet your needs.

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October 19, 2023 - October 25, 2023 | 7B

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