The Westside Gazette

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THURSDA THURSDAYY, FEBRUAR FEBRUARYY 9 - WEDNESDA WEDNESDAYY, FEBRUAR FEBRUARYY 15, 2017

The National Newspaper PublishersAssociation The pain and pleasure of honors Robert W. Bogle a champion of the Black helping others Press during their 2017 National Convention and enlightenment.

As host publisher of the NNPA Conference, Bobby R. Henry, Sr. of the Westside Gazette, was wondrously amazed by the success of the entire conference. “This event was certainly the seal of approval as we honored a giant of a man. To see and feel the respect of the participants in the conference as well as all of the supporters that made this conference a huge accomplishment was truly heart felt. I dare not begin to mention by names of those who contributed for fear of overlooking to so many. However to all thank you so very much for showing real Southern hospitably to all our guest and to those who afforded our students the opportunity to embrace history.”

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“A woman, when she is in labor, has sorrow because her hour has come; but as soon as she has given birth to the child, she no longer remembers the anguish, for joy that a human being has been born into the world.”

John 16:21 (KJV) Bobby R. Henry, Sr.,

Sometime ago I had the pleasure of working alongside some of the Black teenage males from the Boys and Girls Club of Broward County as well as some of the hard working Black men of this community.

The work that we were doing didn’t have a monetary payoff nor was it in the comfort of air conditioned buildings.

The work was extremely physical and laborious. At times there was no escape from the simmering sun as it seemed to melt our clothes into our bodies.

For those of us who didn’t wear gloves the tools blistered the palms of our hands, while the sand filled our shoes and the sweat burned our eyes, making it difficult to see; we continued to forge on until the task was completed for that day.

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Ali Cultural Arts celebrates The Life and Legacy of Karl K. Weaver Sr. Denise Rolark Barnes Chairperson of the NNPA and publisher of the Washington Informer, presents Bob Bogle president and CEO of the Philadelphia Tribune with NNPA's 2017 Lifetime Achievement Award as Dr. Benjamin F. Chavis, Jr., president and CEO of the NNPA, looks on.

By Charles Moseley The National Newspaper Publishers Association (NNPA) the nation’s oldest Black owned media organization, held its Mid-Winter Conference Jan. 25-28, 2017 in Fort Lauderdale. The Black

Tie Gala held on Saturday, Feb. 27 at the Hyatt Regency Pier 66 Hotel attracted Black publishers from across America, who gathered to honor a long time champion of the Black Press, Robert W. Bogle, president and CEO of the Philadelphia Tribune news-

No Love, No Charity

Hunter receiving diploma.

Paul Lamar Hunter was born on October 16, 1970. He was born in Racine, Wis. He is

the child of James Senior and Louise Hunter. He is the 19 child out of 21 natural children.

Pleading Our Own Cause

paper with NNPA's 2017 Lifetime Achievement Award.

In addition to the NNPA Black Tie Gala, Black publishers joined with the Urban League of Broward County for a cruise down the Intercostal waterways for an evening of fun, entertainment, He is the father of 4 children.

He graduated from Washington Park High School in 1990.

In 2005, he earned an Associate Degree in Supervisory Management from Gateway Technical College. In 2012, he became the first in his family to earn a Bachelor of Science in Business Administration from Upper Iowa University.

He has been profiled in many national newspapers and magazines including Ebony magazine, AMPS magazine, Austin Fit magazine, The Chicago Defender, the National Examiner, Rolling Out magazine, The New Tri State Defender-Memphis, San Antonio Express, La Prensa, and Black Doctor.com.

National Publicity: “The Tavis Smiley Show”, “Tom Joyner Show”, “The Maggie Linton Show”, “The Armstrong Williams Show”, and “Johnnie O Gospel Show”. Television appearance includes numerous appearances on local television news and national television, FOX and Friends, the Morning Blend show-Wisconsin, Daytime@Nine, Local 24 ABCMemphis, FOX 13 Memphis, and The Morning Blend showArizona.

(Cont'd on Page 10)

WWW.

Pompano Beach’s first African American commissioner left lasting impact Ali Cultural Arts is proud to present The Life and Legacy of Karl K. Weaver, Sr. This exhibit is part of their Black History Month celebration. The monthlong showcase will examine the impact Weaver had on his community as the first African American commissioner of Pompano Beach. The exhibit will feature photos from both his personal and professional life, along with newspaper articles, artifacts and personal belongings. Exhibit will be held Saturday, Feb. 4 to Saturday, March 4, 2017. The event is free. A reception will be held Saturday, Feb. 4 from 12 to 2 p.m. For more information visit www.aliarts.org.

“We are thrilled to be collaborating with Karl Weaver’s family for this special Black History Month event,” said Cherolyn Davis, director - Ali Cultural Arts. “Not only did Commissioner Weaver break down barriers, he worked diligently to unite the community through his many outreach activities. His development of Playtown Day Care Center is still impacting our city today by providing a multi-functioning facility that is a hub for so many activities.”

Playtown Day Care Center, Inc. was established in 1969 to continue the education of young minds while serving the community. The multi-functioning facility was designed to meet the needs of young minds by educating in a small “town” environment. Hence, the name “Playtown” was originated. As further proof of Weaver’s dedication and love for the com-

munity and children, the Class “A” Day Care facility hosted wedding receptions, voter registrations drives, political debates, political marches, blood drives, teen dances, junior fash-

Florida Memorial University President Dr. Roslyn Clark Artis (standing) waiting to received her signed copy of "Rest In Power" from Sybrina Fulton and Tracy Martin.

(Photo by Schnyder Lops)

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ion shows, in-house piano and tap lessons, church services, health fairs, and many other Events.

(Cont'd on Page 6)

Thewestsidegazettenewspaper

MEMBER: National Newspaper Publishers Association ( NNPA), and Southeastern African-American Publishers Association (SAAPA) Florida Association of Black Owned Media (FABOM)

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Westside Gazette

FEBRUARY 9 - FEBRUARY 15, 2017 • PAGE 3

What parents and students should know about charter schools

By Anitra Brown (Managing Editor, The New Orleans Tribune) Late last year, “The New York Times” and “The Washington Post” criticized the National Association for the Advancement of Colored People (NAACP) for its call for a moratorium on charter schools.

Editorial writers at The Post even got all clever with their Oct. 11 headline, “The NAACP opposes charter schools. Maybe it should do its homework.”

Of course, the pun was intended. And it was cute, off beam, but cute.

To be sure, it is both media outlets that need to do a little extra studying when it comes to the question of putting the brakes on charter schools.

First, let’s be abundantly clear. When the board of NAACP called for a temporary stop on the opening of additional charter schools nationwide, they suggested only that the impact of the publicly-funded, privately-operated institutions on both equity and excellence in education deserved further scrutiny before another dollar was spent or a-

nother public school student was sacrificed in the name of so-called education reform.

They have not asked for a permanent end to charters.

They have not asked that all existing charters be shutdown.

They have asked, as best as we can surmise, only that we stop, take a collective breath, and actually determine what has been accomplished or damaged in public education as a result of the proliferation of charter schools across the nation before another charter is granted by a state or local education agency until the following demands are met: 1. Charter schools are subject to the same transparency and accountability standards as public schools.

2. Public funds are not diverted to charter schools at the expense of the public school system.

3. Charter schools cease expelling students that public schools have a duty to educate.

4. Charter schools cease to perpetuate de facto segregation of the highest performing children from those whose aspirations may be high, but

whose talents are not yet as obvious.

That seems fair enough. In fact, it is more than fair, especially when we consider the impact of this corporate-driven education reform model and the proliferation of charter schools here in New Orleans. And we are especially angry as the architects of the fake reform movement put their money and power behind convincing Black people that the NAACP is wrong and trying to hurt them. Scratch that. We are mad as hell at all the Black folk falling for that narrative.

Indeed, it’s the editorial writers at both The Post and The Times that need to go straight to the principal’s office for attempting to thump the NAACP without having a deep understanding of how the littering of the public education landscape with charter schools has adversely impacted disenfranchised and marginalized communities.

Make no mistake, New Orleans—home to the nation’s first and only all-charter school district and the epicenter of a corporate-driven reform effort— serves as the example of why a

Gr een Do chases Simmons ushCar d Green Dott pur purc Simmons’’ R RushCar ushCard mogul Russell Simmons, in megadeal iness who together with Green Dot

By Stacy M. Brown (NNPA Newswire Contributor) Every American needs a RushCard — or Green Dot. That’s the mantra of RushCard founder and bus-

Corporation President Steven Streit, explained the intricacies of their new partnership in an interview with the NNPA Newswire.

Simmons and Streit said Green Dot Corporation has agreed to purchase UniRush,

The pain and pleasure of helping others this one (Cont'd from FP) Even though this was some back breaking activity, the strenuous work produced some meaningful lifelong lessons for all of us who labored under the intense heat.

For three days I rubbed my sore palms while thinking back over the weekend and how I watched young boys who would have probably rather been home playing video games or anywhere else but out in the blistering sun digging trenches.

It didn’t start out so cohesive. We had to talk to each other and not talk about one another.

We, all of us - boys and men included - had to teach by demonstrating and we all had to learn by being open and nonjudgmental.

You know, it’s kind of difficult to take a person from where they are to where you want them to be without some frustrations and moments of conflicts. But if it’s done with the intent to reach the same goal without destroying each other, the painful bumps are soothed with the healing balm of working together to help someone other than those that are doing the work.

The service that we gave this weekend was not for any of us; it was done to help someone outside of the workers. Even though it was the family property of a young man that was working with us, he worked harder and he inspired me to work harder because of a comment he made. As sweat was pouring from his body and he continued to dig, I asked him why he was working so hard. He said, “I want to show ya’ll that I appreciate what ya’ll are doing for my grandmother.”

He is 17 years old with dreads and gold teeth and full of respect.

As we worked throughout the day there were pearls of wisdom being dropped by the old heads while eager young ears scooped them up quickly to digest and regurgitate them back to us in their own youthful vernacular.

Surprised by one dialogue we were engaged in, the question was asked, “Who knows the Preamble to the Constitution of the United States of America?” A young brother quickly began to recite it word for word. We all were impressed.

As swiftly as he ended, another question was asked. “Who was James Weldon Johnson and what did he do?” “Does anybody know the Negro National Anthem or the words to “Lift Every Voice and Sing?” The sound of silence stilled the air under the tent.

This is where the pain comes in before the pleasure of helping others.

It was at this moment that all the men began to do some soul searching. We immediately addressed the issue of building the foundation to why OUR history is so important and extremely necessary to teach to OUR youth.

As each man told of a significant event of our History, the young males enthusiastically asked for more. Now comes the pleasure.

The project was completed for the day. We dug up an entire yard, installed a sprinkler system and laid the sod all without arguing, belittling or disrespecting one another.

So now when I rub the calluses in my hand, I smile as I see the faces of those young Black males sweating profusely as they helped someone else.

Yes, it does require some pain when you extend yourself for others, but the rewards are so much more pleasurable.

[He Took on the Status of a Slave] If you’ve gotten anything at all out of following Christ, if his love has made any difference in your life, if being in a community of the Spirit means anything to you, if you have a heart, if you care— then do me a favor: Agree with each other, love each other, be deepspirited friends. Don’t push your way to the front; don’t sweettalk your way to the top. Put yourself aside, and help others get ahead. Don’t be obsessed with getting your own advantage.

Forget yourselves long enough to lend a helping hand.”

Philippians 2:1 (The Message) “Dear God as we grow in you we find that the pain of serving others . is no pain at all. It is the joy of being like You. In Jesus name , Amen.”

WHEN WE DO SERVICE FOR OTHERS WE FIND OURSELVES SERVING YOU.

Simmons, long a champion for the underbanked and unbanked, will remain with the company and continue to play a significant role in guiding the union in its mission to create more banking opportunities for all Americans.

(UniRush) LLC, the parent company of the RushCard prepaid debit card.

The deal is worth about $167 million and will merge Green Dot’s 4.5 million cardholders with RushCard’s 750,000 account holders.

Simmons, long a champion for the underbanked and unbanked, will remain with the company and continue to play a significant role in guiding the union in its mission to create more banking opportunities for all Americans.

“There are some things that we can do with our card that will be happening soon that will make us unique,” Simmons said. “I don’t care how many cards you have in your wallet, you will need us with all of the tools and resources we’ll have.

Every American needs a RushCard.”

Among those resources are the formation of the nation’s largest mobile, online and direct mail “direct-to-consumer” providers of bank accounts, debit cards and other financial services.

Of course, Green Dot’s acquisition of the RushCard enhances the company’s prospects among the tech-savvy, urban and millennial consumer segments of the financial services market where RushCard has traditionally excelled.

“The reason Steve was so attractive, as a partner, is that he does care and he has the innovative products that go with caring,” Simmons said. “We have early direct deposit, where people get their pay two days early, fraud protection and features that my customers need.”

Viewed by many as both a pioneer in the financial services industry and as a passionate advocate for the unbanked and underserved communities, Streit said his mission continues to be to financially educate lowincome families and to serve their needs.

(Cont'd on Page 8)

stop, temporary or otherwise, to charters is needed.

Despite grand claims to the opposite, the results of charter schools are hardly remarkable.

According to recent school performance measures, the 50 schools currently under control of the all-charter Recovery School District for which school performance data is available have earned letter grades as follows: A’s – 0; B’s – 7; C’s – 19; D’s – 16; F’s – 6 and T’s – 2.

Let’s analyze this. Two of the 50 are graded “T”, meaning they are in transition from one charter operator to another and have been given additional time before SPS scores and grades are applied to the campus.

Nineteen (19) of the schools have earned a “C”; and last we checked, a “C” meant that a performance level was not perfect, not great, just average.

So, “average” traditionally-operated public schools have been replaced by “average,” privately-managed, publicly funded charter operations with nonelected boards that do not have to answer to voters or taxpayers. For the record, that’s like going to your phone service provider to upgrade your gold colored iPhone 6s Plus and getting stuck with a silver colored iPhone 6s Plus…with a Siri app that doesn’t respond to your voice commands. To be sure, there are charter school boards operating in New Orleans for years that have only in recent months begun to follow state law as it relates to the public posting of their meetings and minutes.

Now, if that wasn’t enough to make folk want to pump the brakes on charter schools, consider this: A full 22 of the 50 charter schools operated by the all-charter RSD in New Orleans are either D or F schools, meaning they are close to failing or have failed.

Of course, it’s not all bleak.

There are seven charter schools overseen by the RSD that earned school performance scores that gave them a “B” letter grade. Wait, before you blow up the balloons, hang streamers and cut the cake, let’s get a few more facts straight as to how the school closures, takeovers, so-called reform and the charter explosion happened in New Orleans in the wake of Hurricane Katrina.

With a city decimated and its residents scattered across the country, the state education leaders and state legislature—

Anitra Brown says that "New Orleans is ground zero for all things charter school and the evidence tells us that most of these schools are performing as bad or worse than the traditional public schools they replaced." pushed, no doubt, by the masterminds of the corporatedriven reform movement—met in Baton Rouge to authorize the takeover of Orleans Parish Public Schools, a plan that had been designed and put in place long before Katrina. In order to

facilitate the wholesale takeover of public education in New Orleans, the legislature had to amend state law to raise the minimum school performance score from 60.0 to 87.4. Before this, only five schools in Orleans Parish had scores that designated them as failing. After amending the law, more than 100 schools were deemed failing.

In short, the takeover was manufactured by slight of pen.

Of course, there is inherently nothing wrong with raising the bar—if the plan is to keep it high. But it wasn’t. When it became evident that charter schools weren’t performing miracles, keeping the higher standard did not work for the architects of the reform. So they went back to their buddies in the state legislature, who were happy to amend the law again to lower the minimum SPS a school needed to have in order to hide the failure of the very reform it ushered in. Today, elementary and middle schools only need to have a 66.2 SPS to earn a “C.” The SPS for a high school can be as low as 70 to earn a “C” letter grade. This sort of legislative maneuvering makes measuring real progress or any regression impossible.

(Read full story on www.thewestsidegazette.com)

Recognizing Our Glorious

By Nisha Thomas -- Dorothy Counts, as we all may remember, was one of the first African American students to be admitted into Harry Harding High School during the Civil Rights movement in Charlotte, North Carolina. After several days of unnecessary harassment, which threatened her safety, Counts’ parents made the decision to have her removed from the school.

PAGE 4 • FEBRUARY 9 - FEBRUARY 15, 2017

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Community Digest

Publix is Proud to Support Community News WHERE SHOPPING IS A PLEASURE

Celebration

Residents of South Florida will enjoy a celebration of the African Diaspora, Friday, Feb. 17, 2017 from 6 to 11 p.m., at Hollywood Rotary Club, 2349 Taylor St., Hollywood, Fla. The event titled: African Diaspora Banquet and Cultural Night.

Tickets are available online go to https:// diasporabanquet.eventbrite.com.

For more info (305) 469-1882.

Health Fair

Jack & Jill Health Fair on Saturday, February 11, 2017 from 8 a.m. to 2 p.m., at Jack & Jill Children’s Center, 1315 W. Broward Blvd., Fort Lauderdale, Fla. There will be absolutely FREE services and referrals to local health providers.

Event

Festival

The City of Fort Pierce, Florida, Second Annual Highwaymen Heritage Trail Art Show & Festival, Saturday, Feb. 18, 2017 from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m., at Moore's Creek Linear Park, N. 10 St., Park, Fort Pierce, Fla.

Come out and support 2-1-1 on Saturday, Feb. 11, 2017 from 11:30 a.m. to 2:30 p.m., at Blaze Pizza, 2135 S. University Dr., Davie Fla. For every purchase you make 20% of your check will be donated back to 21-1 Broward. For more info contact Tracy Schuldiner at (954) 390-0493 x 244.

Celebration

Exhibit

Les Bonnes Amies Club, Inc. (The Good Friends) is seeking former princes and princesses, contestants, program participants, and scholarship recipients to join us in celebrating seven (7) decades of service to the Broward County community. Contact Mrs. Deloris Sumlin at (954) 548-7981 or Deloris-sumlin@yahoo.com

Miramar Cultural Center Celebrates Black History Month with Free Art Gallery Exhibit and Race Dialogues on Saturday, Feb. 11, 2017 at 9 a.m. and Saturday, Feb. 25, at 9 a.m., at Miramar Cultural Center, 2400 Civic Center Pl., Miramar, Fla. For more info call (954) 602-4524.

Bowl

Program

Mayor Oliver Gilbert presents Fourth Annual Heritage Bowl. Thursday, Feb. 9, 2017 from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m., at Florida Memorial University, Lou Rawls Center for the Performing Arts,15800 N.W. 42 Ave., Miami Gardens, Fla. For more information, call (305) 914-9170.

Florida Breast and Cervial Cancer Early Detection Program and Holy Cross Hospital invite you to register for free Mammograms on Saturday, Feb. 11, 2017 from 8 a.m. to 2 p.m., at Dorothy Mangurian Comprehensive Women's Center, 1000 N.E 56 St., Fort Lauderdale, Fla. For more info call (954) 762-3649.

TODAY'S BLACK NEWS IS TOMORROW'S BLACK HISTORY

Events

Pompano Beach Downtown Innovation District Upcoming Events. The address to Ali Cultural Arts, 353 Hammondville, Rd. Pompano Beach, Fla. Bailey Contemporary Arts, 41 N.E. First St., Pompano Beach, Fla. For ticket info log onto pompanobeacharts. org and click on Ali/BaCa or Event at the Ali Cultural Arts. * Friday, Feb. 10 at 12 p.m.

- Rock Road Historical Restoration Group presents "The Historical Dedication and Installantion of the Historical Ali Culutral Arts Center. Free event at the Ali Cultural Arts. * Saturdat, Feb. 11 from 12 to 2 p.m. - Book Signing - Author Zhenya McDonald "Walking Thru Hell In High Heel".

Free event at the Ali Cultural Arts * Saturday, Feb. 11, from 12 to 4 p.m. - Recipes of Love A youth baking competition at Ali Cultural Arts at the Ali Cultural Arts. * Sunday, Feb. 12, from 6 to 8 p.m. - Soulful Sunday Ft. "The William Kooly Band" (second Sunday of each month).

Free event. These events are held at the Ali Cultural Arts, 353 Hammondville Rd., Pompano Beach, Fla. Free event at the Ali Cultural Arts . * Wednesday, Feb. 15, from 7 to 8 p.m. - Fresh Air with Byrd, (first and third Wednesday of each month), at the Bailey Contemporary Arts, Bailey Contemporary Arts. * Wednesday, Feb. 15, from 8 to 11 p.m. - Lyrics Lab (first and third Wednesday of each month) at the Bailey Contemporary Arts. * Wednesday, Feb. 15 thur Friday, March 31, 2017 from 6 to 9 p.m., BaCa Bailey Contemporary Arts presents BlackFlorida Pompano Beach by Johanne Rahaman For tickets info call (954) 284-0141.

Friday, Feb. 17, from 7 to 10 p.m. - Conversation Piece: A modern salon (third Friday of each month) at the Bailey Contemporary Arts * Saturday, Feb. 18, at from 6 to 10 p.m. - Ali Cultural Arts & Ashanti Cultural Arts presents Hidden Treasures Fashion Show at the Bailey Contemporary Arts. For tickets info call (954) 786-7876. * Thursday, Feb. 23, from 8 to 11 p.m. - Ali Jam Session featuring "Ulysees Pinkney" (fourth Thursday of each month) at the Bailey Contemporary Arts * Saturday, Feb. 25, from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. - Printmaking Workshop at the Bailey Contemporary Arts. * Saturday, Feb. 25, from 9:30 to 11:30 p.m. - Ali After Hours featuring "The Larry Dogg Band" at Ali Cultural Arts.

Workshops

The Urban League is excited to host our Living Well Program's Daibetes Self-Management Workshoo, Tuesday, Feb. 28 thru Tuesday, April 4, 2017 from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m., at the Osswalk Park, 2220 N.W. 21 Ave., Fort Lauderdale, Fla. All classes will be held inside the Recreation Center. Sign up now.

For more info contact Kareisha Davis, at (954) 625-2566.

Celebration

Annual Black History Month Celebration, "It Takes A Village", Sunday, Feb. 26, 2017 at 8 a.m., at New Hope Baptist Church, 1321 Sistrunk Blvd., Fort Lauderdale, Fla. For more info contact Valecia Cespedes, at (754) 422-4505, Valceia2327@gmail.com

Free Dental

Free Dental Care- sign up now for FREE dental care on Aspen Dental’s MouthMobile on Tuesday, Feb. 21, 2017 from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m., at War Memorial Auditorium 800 N.E. Eight St., Fort Lauderdale, Fla. Dentists and teams from Aspen Dental will treat your most urgent dental needs and provide you with educational materials following your appointment. To make an appointment contact Julie Macias - 411 Veterans 954-703-4536 x 822.

Fundraiser

Happenings at African-American Research Library and Cultural Center

African-American Research Library and Cultural Center, 2650 Sistrunk Blvd., Fort Lauderale, Fla. For more info call (954) 357-6210.

Music and Dance · Saturday, Feb. 11, from 2 to 3:30 p.m. – Literature of the Harlem Renaissance” Rebirth of the Arts and Letters. For more info (954) 357-6282. · Saturday, Feb. 11, from 4 to 5:30 p.m. – Caribbean Influence on the Harlem Renaissance. For more info call (954) 357-6282. · Sunday, Feb. 11, at 1 p.m. – What’s All That Jazz About?

By Shinole Latimer, for all ages. For more info call (954) 357-6282. · Saturday Feb. 11 and 18 from 2 to 4 p.m., there will be a program on "Culinary Jazz: The Foods that Shaped te Harlem Renaissance" For more info call (954) 3576210.

Children, Teens and Families · Saturday, Feb. 25, from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. – Black History Month Essay Contest Awards Ceremony, teen program. For more info call (954) 357-6282. · Saturday, Feb. 25, from 2 to 4 p.m. – Elegance of the Harlem Renaissance Fashion Design Contest, teen program. For more info call (954) 357-6282.

Program Calling all Churches to Church Row!!! Relay for Life is the grassroot fundraiser for American Cancer Society, on Friday, May 19 -20, 2017 from 6 p.m. to 6 a.m., Joseph C. Carter Park in Fort Lauderdale at 1450 W. Sunrise Blvd., Fort Lauderdale, Fla. Carter Park – Relay for Life community bonds together and host an overnight event, full of music, food, and entertainment. For more info contact Rosalind Hankerson (954) 667-9025 Rosalind.CarterRelay@gmail.com

Broward County Public Schools host Supplier Diversity & Outreach Program Meet the Prime Lunch-n-Learn Workshop Series, Friday, Feb. 24, 2017 from 12 noon to 2 p.m., at TSSC Annex Bank Lobby, 7770 W. Oakland Park Blvd., Sunrise, FLa. To RSVP contact Vincent Jones vai email at Vincet.jones@browardschools.com RSVP by Feb. 21, 2017 space is limited to (2) individuals per company.

Events

Miami Dade College Celebrate Black Heritage Month with Free community Events · REWIND: Miami’s Color Line: Activists a-gainst Segregation every Tuesday and Thurs-day in February, from noon to 1:30 p.m., at Wolfson Campus, 300 N.E. Second Ave., Room 8401. For more info (305) 237-3536. · Gospel Explosion and Soul Food Tasting on Saturday, Feb. 11, from 3 to 7 p.m., at the N. Campus, 11380 N.W. 27 Ave., Science Complex Plaza. For more info call (305) 237-1250. · What It’s Like to Be a Professional African American Male in America on Wednesday, Feb. 15, from noon to 1:30 p.m., at Medical Campus, 950 N.W. 20 St., Room 1175. For more info call (305) 237-4213. · Closing Event: Gospel Music at West on Tuesday, Feb. 21, from 7 to 8:30 p.m., at West Campus, 3800 N.W. 115 Ave., Room 1102. For more info call (305) 237-8904. · Obama’s Presidency on Wednesday, Feb. 22, from 11 a.m. to noon, at Homestead Campus, 500 College Terr., Room F222. For more info call (305) 237-5065. · Building Resilience in African American Students on Wednesday, Feb. 22, from noon to 1 p.m., at Medical Campus, 950 N.W. 20 St., Student Life Lounge. For more info call (305) 237-4213. · The National Crisis in Black Education on Thursday, Feb. 23, from 9:50 to 11:05 a.m., at Carrie P. Meek Entrepreneurial Edu-cation Center, 6300 N.W. Seventh Ave., Room 1109. For more info call (305) 237-1900. · Jump Into History: Double Dutch on Thursday, Feb. 23, from 6 to 7:30 p.m., at Hialeah Campus, 1776 W. 49 St., Room 5101. For more info call (305) 237-8736. · The Sixth Annual South Florida Championship Step Show on Saturday, Feb. 25, at 6 p.m., at Kendall Campus, 11011 S.W. 104 St., Building 6, 6120. For more info call (305) 237-2321. · Mass Incarceration as an Extension if Slavery on Tuesday, Feb. 28, from 11:40 a.m. to 1:20 p.m., at Carrie Entrepreneurial Education Center, 6300 N.W. Seventh Ave., Atrium and Room 1103.

For more info call (305) 2371900.

EDUCATION MATTERS Every Child Derserves a Chance

www.thewestsidegazette.com

Opinion Letter to Editor What We Blacks Need To Do— Cesar Augustus sent out a “decree”, Pharaoh said “so let it be written, so let it be done”, Hitler orders were called “dictates” and Trump has given us over “21” and counting commandments

The Westside Gazette, under the Management of BI-ADs, Inc., reserves the right to publish Views and Opinions by Contributing Writers may not necessarily reflect those of the Staff and Management of The Westside Gazette Newspaper and are solely the product of the responsible individual(s) who submit comments published in this newspaper.

called “executives orders. We must continue our non-violent protest, education and registration drives as we prepare for local, state and the midterm elections in 2018!!!

James J. Hankins—Wilmington, NC 4209 DeWitt Rd. Wilmington, NC 28405

Barbara Reynold’s Coretta Scott King Memoir is a must read Julianne Malveaux said that Reynold’s memoir shows Coretta Scott King as a leader in her own right, as a dedicated pacifist, as a persistent adherent to principles of nonviolence, as a gritty fighter for her husband’s legacy

The lost generation of young Black men out of control

By Roger Caldwell There is a crisis in America in the Black community, because it seems no one cares that Black boys and young Black men are failing in school. They expect to fail, and they are only concerned with being professional basketball/football players, rap stars, or gangsters. Seventy percent of Black families are run by single women, and young brothers have no idea of how to be a man.

As Blacks in February celebrate Black History month, it is time to tell

the truth about street-life and Black on Black violence that is claiming hundreds of thousands of young Black men’s lives in the community.

“Since 1980 to 2013, more than 260,000 Black men have been killed in America” says Mich Landrieu, Mayor of New Orleans. America has given up on Black boys and young men and the majority of them see no way out of their circumstances.

In 2017, Black boys and young men cannot read. This impacts them in everything they do, and their mothers are too busy working and paying bills to educate them.

A good friend of mine, who has a college degree and a good job in Maryland, mentors a group of 20 Black young men every Tuesday from the community. After talking to them for five weeks about the importance of education, no one in the group had a report card with a GPA higher than 2.0. The young men thought it was funny, and it appeared that they were satisfied with their results.

In many major cities across the country such as Newark, Baltimore, Chicago, Detroit, New Orleans and Washington D.C., the schools are not working and there aren’t enough decent-paying jobs in the community.

The unemployment rate is over 50% in most cities, and young Black men are killing each other because they can’t envision anything better for themselves.

“What you’re going to see is a huge governing failure on the part of our society. This country has the highest incarceration rate in the world, and Louisiana has the highest incarceration rate in the country. That’s failure” says Mayor Landrieu.

Within the Black community in every major city across the country, you will find the same pattern. 1 out of 3 Black men will go to prison, and 80% of murder victims are believed to have known their killer. Buying a gun is cheaper than buying a pair of sneak-

ers, and too many young Black men have one.

In Chicago in 2016, the city leads the country with over 500 deaths, and this is directly related to drugs and gang street warfare. Black boys as young as 8 to 10 years old are running and selling guns and drugs.

They have already decided how they plan to make their money, and no parent (mostly the woman) is going to stop them.

Black boys and young men are dying for lack of respect from others on the street, and they are out of control, but where are the solutions during Black History Month?

It is easy to blame institutional racism, poor neighborhoods, police brutality, the hip-hop culture, drugs, and guns, but systemic genocide is the fundamental reason so many Black boys and men are dying in America.

The criminal justice system is the civil rights issue in 2017 in the Black community.

“Right now, Blacks make up 12% of the population but almost 60% of those doing time are drug related – and according to the Sentencing Project, these Black prisoners are serving almost as much time for their drug offenses as Whites are for actual violent crimes” says reporter Wilbert Cooper.

1.5 million prime-aged Black men are missing in America; they’re either behind bars or pushing up daisies.

There is a lost generation of young Black boys and young men in America, and Black History Month is a time to start the conversation. February is the only time America talks about Black people, so it is time to talk about “The Lost Generation.”

Young Black men are dying in the streets and/or jails/prisons, and there appears to be no hope. “The day you were born, there was a pine box and a prison cell built with your name on it” says reporter Wilbert Cooper.

The Republican Party and the Hidden Figures on Capitol Hill Raynard Jackson says that Republicans tend to want to hire and showcase Blacks that make them feel “comfortable” instead of hiring Blacks, who have credibility within the Black community.

By Raynard Jackson (NNPA Newswire Columnist)

LETTERS TO THE EDITOR GUIDELINES The Westside Gazette welcomes your letters. Letters must be signed with name clearly legible along with a phone number and complete address. No unsigned or anonymous letters will be considered for publication. The Westside Gazette reserves the right to edit letters. The letters should be 500 words or less.

FEBRUARY 9 - FEBRUARY 15, 2017 • PAGE 5

Westside Gazette

As we prepare to celebrate the beginning of Black History Month this week, the Republican Party continues to show its ineptness in cultivating “real” relationships with the Black community. They continue to hire and highlight Black Democrats at the expense of Black Republicans.

There is not one Black Republican working for the Trump administration in the White House; you have one Black Democrat working for Trump who seems to never miss an opportunity to speak ill of Black Republicans in private meetings, based on phone calls I have received.

To commemorate Black History Month, Republicans on Capitol Hill and in The White House will probably issue a perfunctory press statement written by a White aide that communicates absolutely nothing.

It wasn’t until I created the “Black Republican Trailblazer Awards” five years ago that anything meaningful was ever done under the Republican label to acknowledge Black History Month. Now the party is even trying to steal that from Black folks by way of a lawsuit; which most of you are aware of.

February 11-12, we will continue our tradition of honoring those who have made a significant contribution to America, the Black community and the Republican Party. You can visit our website to see who our honorees are and other plans we have to honor them (www.bafbf.org).

The Republican Party and the Trump administration both have com-

pelling stories to tell relative to the Black community; but neither have any Blacks around them who have the institutional knowledge or the communication skills to effectively tell that story.

It’s not enough to have Blacks on your staff; but just as important, you must have the “right” Blacks on your staff. This is where the party has been found woefully inadequate.

Republicans tend to want to hire and showcase Blacks that make them feel “comfortable” versus Blacks who have credibility within the Black community and who also know what the hell they are doing.

Republicans constantly allow liberals to brand them as a party of racists and yet they refuse to put a strategy in place to refute these same old tired liberal diatribes. A lie that is oft repeated becomes the truth. If they spent the same amount of vigor and money fighting liberal lies as they are in their attempts to sue me over initiatives that I have created to benefit the party, we would be getting north of 25 percent of the Black vote in presidential elections.

We all know the Democratic play book; but the party is not serious enough about the Black vote to devote the time or money to challenge these liberal lies.

As I always say, when all is said and done; there is more said than done.

Republicans need only talk about what they have done lately with the hiring of very talented Black staffers; and then to effectively communicate that message directly to the public.

We all know things like Republican President Abraham Lincoln freed the slaves, yada, yada, yada, but in the immortal words of Janet Jackson, “What Have You Done For Me Lately?”

(Read full story on www.thewestsidegazette.com)

By Julianne Malveaux (NNPA Newswire Columnist)

CBC, State AGs and consumer advocates stand up to CFPB foes Lawmakers, Lobbyists Attack Consumer Protection Agency While CFPB opponents and supporters continue to air their differences, Charlene Crowell says that Director Cordray and his staff are continuing to serve the public according to the law.

By Charlene Crowell (NNPA Newswire Columnist)

Every day that he holds the presidency, Donald Trump does something outrageous. He blusters, he just plain lies, and he bullies. He pushes his decisions, his executive orders, down the throats of a Congress that he dominates. Why not let the democratic process work and let them vote to build a wall and pay for it, instead of insisting, by executive order, that the wall will be built. In just one short week as President, he has demeaned our democracy and our voters, caused international turmoil, and more. But he is doing exactly what he said he would do.

We’ve been here before. Remember Ronald Reagan, the President who cut school lunches and declared ketchup a vegetable? Remember warmonger George W. Bush? Remember Richard Nixon and his coldness toward Coretta Scott King? Remember history!

Journalist Rev. Dr. Barbara Reynolds offers us the opportunity to remember history in the Coretta Scott King memoir, “My Life, My Love, My Legacy.” Reynolds took copious notes and made extensive recordings in the decades that she worked and travelled with Coretta Scott King, and she has turned them into a memoir. Completed in 2007, it has taken a decade for the book to be published, largely because of complications with the King estate. But Reynolds chooses not to talk about the complications, instead choosing to talk about the many ways her life was enriched and enhanced by her association with Mrs. King.

She also chooses to illuminate the leadership roles that Mrs. King embraced, both while her husband, Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. was living, and after his death.

The book is a great and inspirational read, especially now, when so many have despaired at the irrational-seeming leadership of Donald Trump. It is a reminder that it took 15 years of persistence to establish the King holiday that we now all take for granted. It is easy to forget that Congressman John Conyers (D-Mich.) introduced the King Holiday legislation in 1968, just days after Dr. King’s assassination. He introduced it again and again, year after year. According to Coretta Scott King, the bill was rejected more than 70 times. But she, and Conyers, persisted in their efforts to create a national holiday. Coretta Scott King met with the reformed segregationist Senator Robert Byrd. She says she would have been “anxious” to meet with a man who filibustered the 1964 Civil Rights Bill, but was assured that his views had changed.

Indeed, Byrd supported the effort to establish the King holiday, but through a rules change, a two-thirds vote was needed to establish a holiday instead of a simple majority. In 1979, the bill lost by a mere five votes.

Agitation continued after this loss.

A petition drive yielded six million signatures. Stevie Wonder released his “Happy Birthday” song that advocated for a King holiday. Senator Jesse Helms opposed the holiday, introducing a 300-page document that detailed King’s “Communist activities.”

Senator Daniel Patrick Moynihan was so outraged by the document that he threw it to the ground, describing it as a “packet of filth.” On October 19, 1983, the Senate passed King holiday legislation 78-22, following a House vote of 338-90. President Ronald Reagan signed the bill into law on November 3, 1983, establishing the King holiday on the third Monday of January, beginning in 1986. Of course, some states dragged their feet. Arizona did not acknowledge the holiday until the NFL moved a Super Bowl in protest in 1992. South Carolina waited until 2000 to acknowledge the holiday.

We often see Coretta Scott King as a stoic, dignified lady, and a graceful partner to civil rights leader Dr. Martin Luther King. This memoir shows her from another perspective, as a leader in her own right, as a dedicated pacifist, as a persistent adherent to principles of nonviolence, as a gritty fighter for her husband’s legacy through the holiday and the establishment of the King Center.

As a new Congress and White House begin their respective governmental roles, a still-growing cadre of supporters and opponents are focusing on the future of the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau (CFPB).

Ironically, Capitol Hill’s ongoing regulatory tug-of-war is really not a partisan issue for much of the nation.

Early consumer polls documented that the strongest supporters for financial regulation were consumers of color.

Considering that Black and Latino consumers are often targeted for financial abuse, strong support is understandable.

Even a December 2016 online poll conducted by Glover Park Group/ Morning Consult revealed strong support for CFPB among Trump voters as well: § By a margin of 55 to 28 percent, Trump voters oppose efforts to weaken or eliminate the CFPB; § 47 percent say the Dodd Frank financial reforms should be kept or expanded, as against 27 percent who want to see that law scaled back or repealed; and § 41 percent want the bureau to be left alone, and 14 percent say its power should be increased.

So why are some Capitol Hill lawmakers and lobbyists still determined to attack the CFPB and Richard Cordray, it’s the director of the agency? A number of recent actions appear out of sync with even President Trump’s base.

As early as January 11, a bill was filed to change CFPB’s governance from a single director to a five-member commission. Nearly six years ago, CFPB opponents tried unsuccessfully to create a less efficient commission rather than an accountable, single director structure. Sponsored by Nebraska’s Senator Deb Fisher, the measure was assigned to the Senate’s Committee on Banking, Housing and Urban Affairs and awaits further consideration.

On January 20, Reince Priebus announced to federal agency heads and executive departments that a regulatory freeze would take effect at noon that same day. As an independent law enforcement agency, many consumer advocates would argue that CFPB should be exempted from executive actions.

Even though the Priebus memo made no specific mention of CFPB, the specter of its still pending regulation hangs in the balance. After public hearings and comments, many consumer advocates anxiously await rules that would govern small dollar loans such as payday and car-title, and others affecting debt collection and auto finance.

In the meantime, a growing number of lawmakers, state officials and consumer advocates are raising their respective voices to alert consumers of all that is at stake and their commitment to financial fairness.

A total of 16 state attorneys general agree. On January 23, Connecticut AG George Jepsen and his colleagues filed a motion to intervene in a federal appeals case, defending the constitutionality of the CFPB. Writing for the group, AG Jepsen said, “The CFPB is the cop on the beat, protecting Main Street from Wall Street misconduct. It was structured

by Congress to be a powerful and independent agency that would protect consumers from the abuses of Wall Street, banks, and other large financial institutions…. That mission is still critical to consumers today.”

The following day, January 24, a letter to President Trump from 38 members of the Congressional Black Caucus called for Director Cordray to remain in his position through his confirmed 2018 term. According to the CBC members, with Director Cordray’s leadership nearly $30 million in civil monetary penalties and over $400 million in restitution went to 1.4 million minority consumers.

“Communities of color and, indeed, all consumers in America will benefit from having Director Cordray remain in his position and continue to independently implement the mandates imposed upon him by Congress as the Director of the CFPB”, wrote the CBC. The letter to President Trump also followed a January 18 guest column jointly authored by California Congresswoman Maxine Waters and Congressman Cedric Richmond of Louisiana, the newly-elected chair of the Congressional Black Caucus.

(Read full story on www.thewestsidegazette.com)

(Read full story on www.thewestsidegazette.com)

PAGE 6 • FEBRUARY 9 - FEBRUARY 15, 2017

www.thewestsidegazette.com

Westside Gazette

Baldwin documentary 'I Am Not Your Negro' receives Oscar nod ences in a poignant, sometimes provocative way. His books include The Fire Next Time (1963), Giovanni’s Room (1965), No Name in the Street”(1972), and The Devil Finds Work (1976).

There hasn’t been anyone who has been able to duplicate the power of Baldwin since his death at 63 in France in 1987.

Baldwin confronted the “moral monsters” of racism in the

United States and dealt with the complex social and psychological pressures confronting Black people in America. Baldwin often challenged White Americans on the questions of

racism.

“It does matter any longer what you do to me,” Baldwin said in an interview in 1965.

“The problem now is how are you going to save yourselves?”

The National Newspaper Publishers Association (NNPA) honors Robert W. Bogle (Cont'd from FP)

By Lauren Victoria Burke (NNPA Newswire Contributor) On February 1, the first day of Black History Month, the National Museum of African American History and Cultural premiered the Oscar-nominated documentary “I Am Not Your Negro,” which features commentary by James Baldwin.

The film is a tribute to the staggering contribution of one of America’s greatest men of letters.

Director Raoul Peck spent 10 years completing the film. The documentary was inspired by one of Baldwin’s unfinished manuscripts regarding his friendships and views on three of his friends: Medgar Evers, Martin Luther King Jr. and Malcolm X. None of the three would live to see their 40th birthday. Medgar Evers was assassinated in 1963 in Jackson, Miss.; Malcolm X was assassinated in 1965 in New York City; King was assassinated in 1968 in Memphis, Tenn.

At the heart of the film, the jarring documentary provides Baldwin’s sociopolitical observations and showcases the writer’s

eloquence and directness as a communicator.

Peck credits Baldwin with changing his life after he read “The Fire Next Time” when he was a teenager.

“The starting point of the movie are the words of a person, a great author, James Baldwin,” Peck said at the The Hollywood Reporter’s Documentary Oscar Roundtable. “My job was to put myself in the background. I knew those words since I was 15 -years-old.

“If I can summarize the essential part of Baldwin, it is the ability and obligation to always question whatever truth is put in front of you. Beginning with images, beginning with stories, beginning with cinema. This is something that I learned very early on,” Peck told a reporter last week. “And Baldwin gave me the words and the instruments to do that, to be able to deconstruct whatever was put in front of me—ideology, stories, narrative—very concretely.”

Baldwin was an American social critic, novelist, essayist, playwright and poet. His essays, as collected in “Notes of a Native Son” (1955), explore issues of race and class differ-

Dr. Benjamin F. Chavis, Jr., president and CEO of the NNPA, capsulized the significance of the conference by noting the longevity of the organization.

“We begin 2017 by celebrating 190th anniversary of the Black Press in America. So we’ve come through a lot of trials and tribulations. One of the things that Brother Bob Bogle reminded us on the first night of this gathering was that when we have trials and tribulations we get stronger.

We don’t give up.”

“Tonight we honor one of the stalwarts of the Black PressBob Bogle, president and CEO of the Philadelphia Tribune,” Chavis added.

Bob Bogle shared a few observations regarding the NNPA convention as well as taking an opportunity to put things in perspective in the wake of the recent presidential election.

“My observations of this event are the same as they’ve always been in the past. I’ve never come to an NNPA Convention where I didn’t learn something and been the beneficiary of having come.”

When asked if he could speak to the newly elected president of the United States Donald Trump regarding his brief stint in office, he provided the following retort.

“Everyone has the right to be at the table. The issue of equal access and opportunity should be shared and enjoyed by all of us, not just some of us.”

“In spite of the fact that Mr. Trump, our president has made some derogatory remarks about everybody but my dog Gooch, I wish him well, only

because I wish America well,” Bogle added.

Dr. Benjamin F. Chavis, Jr. also expressed a feeling of resurgence among more recent supporters of the Black Press and the impact of having a new administration in the White House.

“I’m optimistic because I see millennials, Black leaders, young people reading our newspapers again, They're not just depending on what’s on twitter or Face-book. They want the in depth investigative reporting that’s in the Black press. So I think you’re going to see a sense of call and response.

The truth of the matter is what just happened in Washington was a response of President Obama being in the White House for eight years. So now we have to have a response to Trump being in the White House. This is no time for us to throw our hands up. We must stay engaged. By God’s grace I believe the Black Press is going to be that one national organization that is going to raise the consciousness of 47 million Black Americans in 2017.”

Denise Rolark Barnes ,chairperson of the NNPA and publisher of the Washington Informer, spoke regarding the future of Black newspapers in America. She also pointed to an enjoyable moment during the convention.

“I think we’ve had a successful convention. We’re trying to help our publishers make this transition, adding to their traditional print publications with the new technology to digital and social media and pushing the idea about how important events can be and so I think we’ve gotten that message across.

“The highlight for me was the 150 students that came from the Broward County Public Schools along with their teachers and the School Board and folks like that. So that’s what I was really excited about because we’re working to engage the next generation to teach them the history and legacy of the Black Press but also to encourage them to look at our newspapers as viable options for employment opportunities when they get out of school.”

Albert Tucker, Vice-President of the Greater Fort Lauderdale Convention &Visitors Bureau hosted the NNPA Kick off Reception and welcomed the opportunity to showcase the

Third generation of family business Byler E. Henry prepares to deliver prayer for the occassion. conference locally.

“Greater Fort Lauderdale was beaming with pride as we were able to host two prestigious organizations: the NNPA and the National Urban League (NUL). The opportunity to share our warm sunshine with the NNPA and NUL was important, but the most significant part of the experience was the message that was shared on the importance of our Black history and the value that we have when we work together.” said Tucker.

Nissan Corporation of America representative Jeffrey Webster is the Director of Diversity for the company. He said that his company and the NNPA shared a common bond and encouraged other major corporations to work together with the Black Press.

“This is an opportunity to meet with the movers and shakers that are in the media. I see that there is a definite opportunity on both sides. There’s opportunity for corporations to get more involved with Black media and Black media also establish better relationships with corporations.”

Robert W. Bogle is president and CEO of the Philadelphia Tribune newspaper where he has worked for 39 years. Bogle joined the Philadelphia Tribune in 1970 selling advertising. Bogle has been a community leader for many years and is especially active in the advancements of Black Philadelphians.

Bogle attended Cheyney

University in Cheyney, Pennsylvania, where he matriculated to study Sociology, earning a B.A. in Urban Studies. He attended the University of Pennsylvania’s Wharton School of Business and Finance to study marketing and economics.

In October 1997, Bogle was appointed as a governor to the Board of Governors of the United Way of America and board member to the Philadelphia Orchestra. In 1995, 1997 and 1999, the NNPA honored Bogle with the Russwurm Award, the highest honor to “Best Newspaper in America,” in the name of John B. Russwurm, co-founder of Freedom’s Journal, the first African-American newspaper in the U.S. (1827). In June 2000, at Drexel University, Philadelphia, an honorary doctorate of Humane Letters degree was bestowed upon Bogle.

The NNPA is a trade association of the more than 200 African American-owned community newspapers from around the United States. Since its founding 76 years ago, NNPA has consistently been the voice of the Black community and an incubator for news that makes history and impacts our country. As the largest and most influential Black-owned media resource in America, NNPA delivers news, information, and commentary to over 20 million people each week. Americans from all backgrounds seek news from the Black perspective from the NNPA member newspapers around the country.

Ali Cultural Arts celebrates The Life and Legacy of Karl K. Weaver, Sr. (Cont'd from FP) Today, the facility remains family-owned and leased to further serving the community as a Class “A” Day Care facility incorporating multicultural and multilingual programs.

About Karl Weaver A native of Inman, South Carolina, Karl Kendle Weaver, Sr. was born on Feb. 26, 1937 to Willie and Hessie Weaver.

Once Karl graduated from Mary McCloud Bethune High School, he served in the United States Army, stationed in Kitzening Germany.

After being honorably discharged, Karl joined his sisters in Pompano Beach one Easter Sunday where he met and later married the late Annie Lois Taylor on Thanksgiving Day. Inspired to teach others, Karl enrolled in Bethune Cookman College where he became a member of Phi Beta Sigma Fraternity, Inc., and starting member of the Men’s Basketball Team. In 1966, he received his Bachelors of Arts degree in Education. While Karl attended college, his love for children grew and also his family.

Karl taught fifth grade at Pompano Beach Projects School and North Andrew Gardens Elementary School for five years before becoming a pioneer, politician, activist, mentor, and friend in his new community.

In 1972, Karl was the first elected African American City Commissioner of Pompano

Beach. Karl remained very active in community affairs, often sought out by Civic and Political activists for his practical advice. He served as an active member of Pompano Jaycees, NAACP, Kiwanis, Advisory boards for City Commissioners, County Commissioners Broward County School Board, Chamber of Commerce (first

African American Director), and many other community affiliations. He remained a devoted and active member of Bethel AME Church.

After a courageous bout with cancer, Karl Weaver died May 25, 2006.

Ali Cultural Arts is located at 353 Hammondville Rd., Pompano Beach, Fla., (954) 786-7876.

www.thewestsidegazette.com

AF amily T hat Prays T ogether, Stays T ogether Family That Together, Together

Church Directory

Worship T his and Every Sunday at the Church of Your Choice This

Bethel Missionary Baptist Church 2211 N.W. 7th Street, Fort Lauderdale, Florida 33061 Church: (954) 583-9368 Email: bethelmbchurchfl@att.net

Reverend Jimmy L. English PASTOR WORSHIP SERVICES Sunday Worship ............................................................. 8 a.m. & 11 a.m.

Sunday School ........................................................................... 9:30 a.m.

Wednesday (Prayer Service & Bible Study) ............................... 7:30 a.m.

Saturday (Women Bible Study) ............................................................ 8 a.m.

"Baptized Believers working together to do the will of God"

Westside Gazette New Mount Olive Baptist Church 400 N.W. 9th Ave., Ft. Lauderdale 33311 (954) 463-5126 ● Fax: (954) 525-9454 CHURCH OFFICE HOURS Monday - Friday 8:00 - 4:00 p.m.

Dr. Marcus D. Davidson, Senior Pastor WORSHIP SERVICES & BIBLE STUDY Sunday .................................................... 7:15 a.m. 9:00 a.m. & 11:00 a.m.

Sunday School ............................................................................ 10:00 a.m.

Wednesday Noonday Service .................................. 12:00-12:30 p.m.

Wednesday Night Prayer Meeting ............................................ 6:30 p.m.

Wednesday Night Bible Study ................................................... 7:00 p.m.

Where the kingdom of God is increased through Fellowship.

Leadership, Ownership and Worship F.L.O.W. To Greatness!

St Paul United Methodist Church 244 S.E. Second Avenue Deerfield Beach, Florida 33341 (954) 427-9407 EMAIL EMAIL:: Stpaulmeth@bellsouth.net WEBSITE WEBSITE:: saintpauldeerfield.com

Rev. Dr. Jimmie L. Brown Senior Pastor

SERVICES

Sunday School .................................................................................... 10 a.m.

Sunday Worship ................................................................................ 11 a.m.

Bible Study (Tuesday) ....................................................... 11 a.m. & 7.p.m.

Obituaries James C. Boyd Funeral Home Harris Chapel United Methodist Church Rev. Stanley Melek, M.Div E-MAIL:stanley.melek@flumc.org 2351 N.W. 26th Street Oakland Park, Florida 33311 Church Telephone: (954) 731-0520

JONES Funeral services for the late Sister Lillie Mae Jones – 49 were held Feb. 4 at First Baptist Piney Grove Church with Rev. Johnny Williams officiating.

SERVICES Sunday Worship ................................................. 7:30 a.m. & 10:30 a.m.

Sunday School .............................................................................. 9:00 a.m.

Wednesday (Bible Study) ........................................... 11a.m. to 7:00 p.m.

SMITH Funeral services for the late Paulette Lynne Smith - were held Feb. 2 at New Mount Olive Baptist Church with Dr. Rosalind Osgood officiating. Interment: Forest Lawn Memorial Gardens.

McWhite's Funeral Home Mount Calvary Baptist Church

800 N.W. 8th Avenue Pompano Beach, Florida 33060 Church Telephone: (954) 943-2422 Church Fax: (954) 943-2186

BREWER Funeral services for the late Johnnifred E. Brewer - 70 were held Feb. 3 at McWhite’s Funeral Home Chapel.

SUNDAY

New Member Orientation ........................... 9:30 a.m.

Sunday School ................................................ 9:30 a.m.

Worship Service ........................................ 11:00 a.m.

WEDNESDAY Prayer Meeting ............................................... 6:00 p.m.

Bible Study ..................................................... 7:00 p.m.

"Doing God's Business God's Way, With a Spirit of Excellence"

Mount Hermon A.M.E. Church Reverend Henry E. Green, Jr., Pastor 401 N.W. 7th Terrace, Fort Lauderdale, FL 33311 Phone: (954) 463-6309 FAX 954 522-4113 Office Hours: Tuesday - Friday 8:30 a.m. to 6:30 p.m.

Email infor@mthermonftl.com

SUNDAY CHURCH SERVICES Worship Service ..................................................................... 7:30 & 10:30 a.m.

Fifth Sunday ONLY .................................................................................... 10 a.m.

Church School ........................................................................................ 9:15 a.m.

BIBLE STUDY: Wednesday ....................................................................... 10 a.m.

Gems & Jewels Ministry Senior Wednesday Wednesday (Bible Study) .................................................... 12 Noon & 7 - 8 p.m.

Daily Prayer Line ...................................................................................... 6 a.m.

(712)432-1500 Access Code296233#

Mt. Zion Missionary Baptist Church 1161 NW 29th Terr., Fort Lauderdale, Fla. 33311 (954) 581-0455 ● Fax: (954) 581-4350 www.mtzionmbc1161.com

Dr. James B. Darling, Jr., Pastor/Teacher

OLIVER Funeral services for the late Herman L. Oliver – 72 were held Feb. 3 at McWhite’s Funeral Home Chapel.

SMITH Funeral services for the late Michael D. Smith – 68 were held Feb. 4 at McWhite’s Funeral Home Chapel with Rev. Rudolph Willis officiating. Interment: South Florida National Cemetery.

WEAVER Funeral services for the late Pastor/Pvt Tony Q u i t m a n Weaver – 81 were held Feb. 3 at McWhite’s Funeral Home Chapel with Min. Charles Lowery officiating. Interment: Sunset Memorial Gardens.

Roy Mizell & Kurtz Funeral Home BRENNEN Funeral services for the late Ruth Ester Brennen – 57 were held Feb. 4 at Lighthouse Worship Center COGIC with Sup. Jack Buckner officiating.

E-mail Address: Mtcalvarypompano@bellsouth.net

Reverend Anthony Burrell, Pastor SCHEDULE OF SERVICES

CONCEPCION Funeral services for the late Ceofile Concepcion - 64 were held Feb. 1 at McWhite’s Funeral Home Chapel.

COOPER Funeral services for the late Bernard Cooper – 64 were held Feb. 4 at Roy Mizell & Kurtz worship Center with Dr. James B. Darling, Jr. officiating. Interment: Sunset Memorial Gardens.

JOHNSON Funeral services for the late Bobbie Lee Johnson - 62 were held Feb. 4 at McWhiter’s Funeral Home Chapel.

LOITEN Funeral services for the late Kathleen Loiten - 76 were held Feb. 4 at Ascension Peace Presbyterian Church Rev. Dr. Raymond Anglin officiating.

ELLIS Funeral services for the late Lorna Muffet Ellis - 71 were held Feb. 4 at Restoring Grace Baptist Church with Dr. Jerome Symonette officiating. Interment: Sunset Memorial Gardens.

WORSHIP SERVICES Worship Service ............................................................................................................ 10:15 a.m.

Sunday School ................................................................................................................ 9:00 a.m.

Communion Service (1st Sunday) ........................................................................... 10:15 a.m.

Wednesday Night Prayer Meeting ........................................................................... 6:30 p.m.

Wednesday Night Bible Study ................................................................................... 7:00 p.m.

Saturday (2nd & 4th) Christian Growth & Orientation ................................... 8:30 a.m.

But be doers of the Word - James 1:22 nkjv - “A Safe Haven, and you can get to Heaven from here”

New Birth Baptist Church The Cathedral of Faith International Bishop Victor T. Curry, M.Min., D.Div. Senior Pastor/Teacher 2300 N.W. 135th Street Miami, Florida 33167

ORDER OF SERVICES Sunday Worship ........................................................ 7:00 a.m., 11:00 a.m. & 7:00 p.m.

Sunday School ....................................................................................................... 9:30 a.m.

Tuesday (Bible Study) ......................................................................................... 6:45 p.m.

Wednesday (Bible Study) ............................................................................... 10:45 a.m.

1-800-254-NBBC * (305) 685-3700 (o) *(305) 685-0705 (f) www.newbirthbaptistmiami.org

FEBRUARY 9 - FEBRUARY 15, 2017 • PAGE 7

""FOR GOD HAS NOT GIVEN US A SPIRIT OF FEAR AND TIMIDITY, BUT OF POWER. LOVE AND SELF-DISCIPLINE." -- 2 Timothy 1:7

Williams Memorial CME “PRAYER IS THE ANSWER” 644-646 NW 13th Terrace Fort Lauderdale, Florida 33311 (954) 462-5711(Ministry Office Line) (954) 462-8222(Pastor’s Direct Line) Email: wm_cme@bellsouth.net (Church} pastorCal50@yahoo.com (Pastor)

Rev. Cal Hopkins.

M.Div) Senior Pastor/Teacher

The WITNESS of “The WILL” Sunday Worship Experiences ................................................................ 7:45 and 11:00 a.m.

Sunday School ................................................................................................................. 9:30 a.m.

Tuesday Night Triumph {Prayer, Praise and Power} Prayer Meeting ................................................................................................................ 7:00 p.m.

Bible Study ........................................................................................................................ 7:30 p.m.

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Q & A: WHAT DOES REVEREND DEAL SAY?

‘Don’t believe the hype’

Question: Was the “Curse of Ham’ a justification for slavery?

Answer: Some scholars have made a motion that the Curse of Ham justified the bondage of a selected people (Black People). If you pray on this subject, research, and get involve with a Bible based study group you will understand the falsehood of this motion. I’m suggesting to you “Don’t believe the hype”.

The Bible never mentioned that Ham was cursed. Ham’s son Canaan was cursed (Genesis 9:25). This is an example of how myths are starting. There is a process known as sacralizing. To sacralize is to develop theological and religious beliefs for the benefit of a particular ethnic or racial group. One author says’ myths, how-ever, do not need facts; they simply need supporters.

So, twisting scripture to keep one in bondage for economic gains is a Christian myth. To justify that God has chosen a particular people to raise up a new realm in a New World is sacralizing.

A myth can be powerful and everlasting. As the Englishmen planned their pilgrimage for the New World, John Rolfe observed they were” a peculiar people, marked and chosen by the finger of God, to possess it, for undoubtedly He is with us’. This was their justification to enslave people (as one Englishmen says’ savages).

It is up to you to know the truth. There is no excuse. Pray, mediate, and study the word of God. The Gospel of John 8:32 says “and ye shall know the truth, and the truth shall make you free’.

Reverend Deal is the senior pastor at Every Christian Church in Fort Lauderdale, Fla. Reverend Deal can be reached in care of the spiritual editor at the Westside gazette, 545 NW Seventh Terrace, Fort Lauderdale, Fla 33311, or email at David.deal55@gmail.com

10 things I wish everyone knew about the Black Church There’s more to the story than soulful music and whooping preachers.Way more.

By Nicole Symmonds For most of my life, I have been in and out of the Black church, and it has been a spiritually formative and resonant space. The dynamism of the preaching, the soul of the music, the embodiment of worship, the scents of soft peppermints or smoking gold balls (yeah, they exist) — all these characteristics combine to create the Black church experience. Even when I have turned my back on it, the Black church beckons me with her call to justice and endurance in the Black community.

So here’s a list of what I wish everyone knew about the Black church, some of it born out of personal experience and some contributions from friends and colleagues.

1. Not all Black church pastors whoop.

When children play church, especially black children, one of the things they know how to do well is to be a whooping preacher. They scream, they shout, they sing, and they breathe heavy and hard into their faux microphones. Yet, as popular as the style is in some Black church pulpits, it isn’t style of all Black church pastors. As a CNN article noted, some in the Black church are divided on the efficacy of whooping, so just because you’re in a Black church, don’t expect to hear a whoop.

2. The Black church is not a bastion of prosperity gospel preaching.

Reality television and televangelists aside, the black church is not all about the prosperity gospel. At its roots, the Black church is an institution founded on social justice principles — it carried us through slavery, Reconstruction, the Civil Rights Era, and our socalled post-racial state. While aspects of prosperity teaching have been an underlying phi-

losophy that delivered/delivers us out of all of those stages, its current usage and parlance is misguided and not representative of the whole black church experience.

3. Some Black churches have white pastors.

Four days after 18-year-old Mike Brown was shot by a white police officer, Renita Lamkin took a rubber bullet as she attempted to mediate between the police and protesters in Ferguson, Missouri. Lamkin is the pastor of St. John African Methodist Episcopal Church, and she is a white woman. She is one of a few other white people who are in pastoral leadership over a Black congregation. One of the first documented instances of a white person over a Black church congregation was Dedra Ann Kimensky, who was the first white woman ordained as pastor to an African Methodist Episcopal Zion church.

4. Black women keep the Black church going.

Black women are often relegated to the periphery of the church, yet these same women have been integral to sustaining the church. In the early days of the Black church, women’s ingenuity in fundraising helped to build and sustain churches, schools, and social services.

(Read full story on www.thewestsidegazette.com)

PAGE 8 • FEBRUARY 9 - FEBRUARY 15, 2017

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“If I had my way, young people, especially from low-income families, would always talk about money and learn how to manage money,” Streit said.

The deal is one Simmons called “a no-brainer” and one that will greatly benefit his already large customer base.

“We made a move to make sure that we better service our customers and that’s why we did this deal,” Simmons said.

“We were set up to do a partnership and we will execute.”

The two CEOs said while they’ve long been competitors, they’ve also been admirers.

When Simmons didn’t shy away from a storm of bad publicity and personal criticism for a glitch in the RushCard two years ago, Streit said he was impressed with how the Def Jam founder responded.

Simmons helped to create a multi-million-dollar fund to help cover the costs that customers had while their cards were beset by technical problems.

In some instances, Simmons sent money to customers to help pay their rent, car loans and other payments.

“A big part of [buying RushCard] is Russell himself,” Streit said, noting that he met Simmons some time ago when Simmons gave a keynote speech at a conference about prepaid cards. “Russell understands the community and cares deeply. I thought he handled himself so well [during the glitch]. Everyone can be a great CEO or a great leader when things are going well.”

Streit continued: “Russell worked hard when things were going bad. The fact is that he quickly turned the health of that company around and he regained the confidence of his customers.”

Green Dot also encountered problems of its own last year when a glitch stopped many of its customers from accessing their accounts, making purchases and withdrawing cash.

With Streit’s guidance, the company was also able to overcome those issues.

Together, Green Dot and RushCard are two of the oldest prepaid debit cards in the marketplace. Simmons’ RushCard popularized prepaid cards,

while Green Dot pioneered the reloadable prepaid card and is the largest provider in the U.S., according to Forbes Magazine.

Recognized with numerous industry awards including a two-time winner of Ernst & Young Entrepreneur of the Year, Streit has heavily been involved in philanthropic efforts, founding Patti’s Way, a 501(c)(3) charitable foundation providing grants to single mothers and their children.

Streit also has mentored children in foster care in Los Angeles and has been a benefactor to the Los Angeles Police Department’s Hollenbeck Police Athletic League.

“Russell and I are both philanthropic and, yes, it’s always a danger when you align yourself with any human because you’re always worried about someone getting into trouble,” Streit said. “But, Russell has so many years of being an activist and, as far as his activism goes, I love it. Look, money is power, money is politics and money has its means and Russell gets it.”

Streit said Simmons’ voice and creative spirit and love for the community at-large were important factors in doing a deal of this magnitude.

“I don’t like when big companies buy companies and homogenize it. I wanted to make sure we kept the flavor and kept Russell’s energy, love and passion,” Streit said.

In the end, the pair each said the deal was easy.

“Year ago, the RushCard supported a financial service tour that we did with Dr. Ben Chavis,” Simmons said. “We taught financial literacy and a part of our mission, as this company grows, is to teach financial literacy.”

Simmons continued: “The potential to help the community grows with this deal. We speak their language and we speak to their needs.”

The deal, expected to close before the end of the first quarter, enhances Green Dot’s shareholder value and materially expands the company’s scale, Streit said.

(Read full story on www.thewestsidegazette.com)

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FEBRUARY 9- FEBRUARY 15, 2107 • PAGE 9

Westside Gazette

Serena Williams acquires record 23rd major in win against Venus Williams!

Chicago Bulls’ colors — and the other was a more Serena-esque pink.� “Thank you, Michael. I can’t believe I’m saying thank you

Michael Jordan. He’s the greatest,� Serena says during the interview.

Still, Serena praises Venus for their legacy (their first match

in Melbourne was 19 years ago, where Venus won), “She’s the only reason the Williams sisters exist, inspiring me to be the best player I can be.�

MIAMI RED 71

By Bryanda Serena Williams has again made history in her 7th Australian Open Title win against older sister Venus Williams! In the 6-4, 6-4 final win she obtained her 23rd grand slam title, surpassing Steffi Graf, who formerly shared her record in the Open Era lead.

Emotions flare in every match for Serena: on Saturday she was seen smashing her racket with frustration after both falling on the baseline and serving, “three tentative doublefaults in a span of four points.� — ESPN. Still, nothing came between her accomplishing her goal and obtaining the championship, making history. “My first Grand Slam started here, and getting to 23 here, but playing Venus, it’s stuff that legends are made of. I couldn’t have written a better story.� — Serena Williams.

Venus Williams is a seventime Grand Slam champion (five in Wimbledon and two in US Open) and was last seen in the final of the Australian Open in 2003. “Serena Williams‌ that’s my little sister guys. Congratulations, Serena, on No. 23.

I have been right there with you. Your win has always been my win. I think you know that

LEGAL NOTICES PUBLICATION OF BID SOLICITATIONS Broward County Board of County Commissioners is soliciting bids for a variety of goods and services, construction and architectural/engineering services. Interested bidders are requested to view and download the notifications of bid documents via the Broward County Purchasing website at: www.broward.org/purchasing.

February 2, 9, 16, 23, 2017

I’m enormously proud of you.

You mean the world to me.�

This victory catapults Serena to the world No. 1 Rank, securing the placement from Angelique Kerber (eliminated during the fourth round in Melbourne). She’s also the oldest Open Era Slam winner, at 35 years, 124 days and counting.

Serena has obtained three titles in the French Open, seven titles in Wimbledon, and six titles in the US Open! Now with 23 titles, she’s closer in ranks to the Grand Slam championship all-time leader, Margaret Court, who leads with 24 titles (Open and amateur eras). Margaret was also present at Rod Laver arena, gracing the sisters with her applause.

In an interview with ESPN, the legendary tennis player was presented with a pair of customized sneakers from another legendary #23, NBA Hall of Famer Michael Jordan! “One shoe was red and black — the

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ARIES-Trials and tribulations are damaging this week only if you let them be. You are a master at living above day-to-day concerns. Enjoy looking at the big picture.

Watch bright skies gathering above a distant horizon.

Bring the future into the present and enjoy. I enjoy the fruits of past labor. 17, 19, 21

LIBRA-Energy is higher than it has been for a while. You might feel like the sunshine inside yourself provides blinding light. Walk into it. There are no dangers. Put dark glasses on your soul and be cool. Smile and keep stepping. My mental powers are my greatest assets this week. 17, 29, 35

TAURUS-This week is a good week for remembering that without the help of your colleagues it would be impossible for you to expedite the tasks that need to be done. Cultivate relationships with those who can help you get important stuff done. Thank them graciously and celebrate with them. I am everybody’s sweetheart. 12, 41, 55

SCORPIO-High physical energy means you may roar through the week. Others will have trouble keeping up so exercise your compassion muscles and be as patient as possible. Keep your best interests in mind because they serve the best for everyone around you right now. I savor the flavor of the happiness I find in others. 5, 51, 53

GEMINI-You can be very efficient this week if you set your will to the task. New ideas will occur to you as you are working steadily, so keep pencil and paper nearby to jot down your latest brilliance! I will ask joy to marry me.

1, 8, 14

SAGITTARIUS-Charm is an extremely effective tool for you this week. Charisma works better than at any recent time especially at home. Shine brightly and let your glow work for you. Your self-image is your most effective tool. Time is the greatest peacemaker of them all. 3, 24, 43

CANCER-The forces that disrupt your life this week are not as big as they seem while you are standing close to them. Move back. See what surrounds the problem area and you’ll notice how small it is on the landscape of your life. Enjoy looking at the goodness that is all around your problems. I keep my attention on the highest and the best. 22, 46, 52

CAPRICORN-This week make your special interest pay off in cash. Enough of goodness for goodness sake. You’ve got bills to pay. People expect generosity from a big hearted person like you. Ask them for something in return or they’ll drain you. Intelligent information does not have to come from intelligent sources.6, 8, 14

LEO-This is a week when you can be a singular beacon.

Shine for those around you. Go inside yourself and find those rays of sunshine that others need. Sure you’re a bit touchy yourself but that’s just the situation in which you can make yourself happy by creating happiness for others. I avoid negative feelings, especially this week. 7, 8, 21

AQUARIUS-During the next few weeks be ready for surprises that await you. Don’t make any solid plans with anyone except you lover. This week will bring forth a new dimension in a special relationship. You will come upon a sensational poem that illustrates the love the two you share. The search for fun occupies my time this week. 34, 46, 55

VIRGO-Business as usual is good business. Energy is high. Others give back to you what you gave to them the past few weeks. We hope you were generous because what you get this week will be a multiple of what you bestowed. I give happiness wherever I go. 6, 13, 48

PISCES-Stay steady in your pursuits. Temptations are all around you. Attractive pursuits abound but stay on course with what you planned to do with all the good energy that has arisen in your life. I do not allow demands to be placed on me this week. 17, 28, 31

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THANK YOU Mr. President Obama

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PAGE 10 • FEBRUARY 9 - FEBRUARY 15, 2017

Westside Gazette

Black History Message to President Donald Trump

By Kevin Palmer The story of slavery is how the moral Blackness of white Americans forever stained Black History. Not even a slick campaign slogan can whitewash the Black stain of slavery from the American consciousness. America’s new president, Donald Trump, campaigned on the slogan, “Make America Great Again.” The slogan attempts to dismiss the very existence of slavery. Trump’s campaign slogan insinuates America was great even when slavery was a legal institution.

Therefore, with a clear conscience, “Make America Great Again” gives white Americans hope and reason to celebrate.

Conversely, for African Americans, the slogan is an offense because it belittles a history

stained by slavery. In 2017, “Make America Great Again” means to African Americans what the 4th of July meant to Frederick Douglass in 1852.

Frederick Douglass was offended by the Fourth of July, Independence Day celebration.

Douglass was an African American who escaped slavery in Maryland. In addition, he was a social reformer, abolitionist, orator, writer and statesman. On July 5, 1852, Douglass gave a speech in Rochester, New York, to a predominately white audience, titled, “The meaning of July Fourth for the Negro.”

The thoughts and feelings he conveyed then about the Fourth of July celebration, are felt now by many African-Americans about the slogan, “Make America Great Again.” Douglass said, “We have to do with the

past only as we can make it useful to the present and to the future.” He continued with the question, “What have I, or those I represent, to do with your national independence? Are the great principles of political freedom and natural justice, embodied in that Declaration of Independence, extended to us?”

Similarly, does Donald Trump’s vision of a great America disperse privilege equally among whites, Blacks, minorities, and nonwhite immigrants?

Douglass goes on to say, “This Fourth of July is yours, not mine. You may rejoice, I must mourn. Your high independence only reveals the immeasurable distance between us.

The blessing in which you, this day, rejoice, are not enjoyed in common. The rich inheritance of justice, liberty, prosperity and

independence, bequeathed by your fathers, is shared by you, not by me. My subject is American slavery. Above your national, tumultuous joy, I hear the mournful wail of millions, whose chains are heavy and grievous. To forget them, to pass over their wrongs, would be treason most scandalous and shocking. I do not hesitate to declare, with all my soul, that the character and conduct of this nation never looked Blacker to me than on this 4th of July! Standing with God and the crushed bleeding slave, I will denounce slavery-the great sin and shame of America! America is false to the past, false to the present, and solemnly binds herself to be false to the future.” Douglass foresaw men like Donald Trump who pretends slavery and Black men like Frederick Douglass never existed by declaring to, “Make America Great Again.”

Furthermore, Douglass asks the question, what to the American slave, is your Fourth of July? He answers, “A day that reveals to him more than all other days in the year, the gross injustice and cruelty to which he is the constant victim. To him, your celebration is a sham; your boasted liberty, an unholy license; your national greatness, swelling vanity; your sounds of rejoicing are empty and heartless; your denunciation of tyrants, brass fronted impudence;

www.thewestsidegazette.com your shouts of liberty and equality, hollow mockery; your prayers and hymns, your sermons and thanksgivings, deception, impiety, and hypocrisya thin veil to cover up crimes which would disgrace a nation of savages. There is not a nation on earth guilty of practices more shocking and bloody than are the people of the United States, at this very hour.” Likewise, in 2017, what to the African American is your “Make America Great Again?” It is all that was previously mentioned.

In like manner, what to the nonwhite immigrant is your, “Make America Great Again?”

To the question, Douglass answers, “You profess to believe “that, of one blood, God made all nations to dwell on the face of all the earth,” and hath commanded all men, everywhere, to love one another; yet you notoriously hate (and glory in your hatred) all men whose skins are not colored like your own.

Moreover, in 2017, persecution of nonwhite immigrants mocks the welcoming inscription on the Statue of Liberty which says, “Give me your tired, your poor, your huddled masses yearning to breathe free.”

Douglass goes on to say, “You declare before the world, and are understood by the world to declare that you “hold these truths to be self-evident, that all men are created equal; and are endowed by their Creator with certain unalienable rights; and that among these are, life, liberty, and the pursuit of happiness; and yet, you hold

Film R evie w: 1 00 S tr ee ts Re view 100 Str tree eets The local AT&T Pioneers have been honored with a Black History Month proclamation from the City of Hollywood. The AT&T Pioneers have supported several organizations and initiatives within the city focused on African American education, including the Liberia Economic and Social Development (LES) Center and the city’s annual Poetry Slam competition. The AT&T Pioneers are a network of active and retired employees who donate their time and money to improve local communities. FRONT ROW, l to r: Vic Beninate, AT&T External Affairs, Dr. Mary Mites Campbell, Nova Southeastern University assistant professor; Dr. Glenn Bowen, executive director of the Center for Community Service Initiatives at Barry University; Daphne Dilbert, AT&T Pioneer and LES board member; and Anthony Grisby, African American Council liaison for the City of Hollywood. BACK ROW, l to r: Commissioner Sara Case, Vice Mayor Traci Callari, Mayor Josh Levy, Commissioner Kevin Biederman, and Commissioner Richard Blattner.

Idris Elba stars in the drama “100 Streets.”

(Samuel Goldwyn Films)

By Dwight Brown (NNPA Newswire Film Critic) The mark of a brilliant actor is that he or she can give a compelling performance even in a film that doesn’t shine. That’s the case with Idris Elba, as he nearly saves this light, interwoven contemporary London drama from mediocrity.

The concept for the film is simple: Three vignettes focus on three lives fraying at the edges.

Max (Elba) is a wealthy, over-the-hill rugby star. He’s living the glamorous celebrity life: fast women, drugs and

No Love, No Charity

(Cont'd from FP) National Publicity: “The Tavis Smiley Show”, “Tom Joyner Show”, “The Maggie Linton Show”, “The Armstrong Williams Show”, and “Johnnie O Gospel Show”. Television includes numerous appearances on local television news and national television, FOX and Friends, the Morning Blend show-Wisconsin, Daytime@Nine, Local 24 ABCMemphis, FOX 13 Memphis, and The Morning Blend showArizona.

drink. His bad habits have cost him his marriage to Emily (Gemma Arterton, “Clash of the Titans”), an actress/community theater director. Max’s unpredictable behavior means he is limited to supervised visitations with his two young kids. Emily, in the meantime, is being pursued by an old friend, an oversensitive transfixed shutterbug named Jake (Tom Cullen).

He is far more into her than she is to him.

In the second segment, Kingsley (Franz Drameh, “Attack the Block”) is a wayward adolescent from the poor side of town. He lives with his single Now he has a new book out - No Love, No Charity: The Success of the 19th Child is the riveting debut book by Paul Lamar Hunter. Though many would consider Hunter to be an unlikely candidate to become successful, this thrilling autobiographical account describes how he made it, despite overwhelming odds. As the 19 child of 21, his troubled life traversed the perils of poverty, neglect, dysfunction, and even deaths.

Hunter describes what it was like growing up in the shadows of a famous yet detached mother whose affections were focused on the homeless shelter that she founded.

Though the shelter was supposed to be a haven for the downtrodden, it was actually the breeding ground for dysfunction and despondency. Despite Hunter’s misfortunes and failures, his determined spirit and his unshakeable faith lifted him above the fray to become the first in his family to graduate from college.

Now moving full-speed ahead, Hunter is living proof that neither limits nor lineage determine the quality of one’s life—but faith, fortitude, and determination do.

DOUGLASS securely, in bondage a seventh part of the inhabitants of your country.” Douglass admonishes, “The existence of slavery in this country brands your republicanism as a sham, your humanity as a base pretense, and your Christianity as a lie.” Mr. Trump, America has never been great.

Mr. President, acknowledge and embrace the past. America is not great until it has been great for all. Lead, exhort, and inspire America to live up to the principles of the Constitution, Declaration of Independence, and salutation inscribed on the Statue of Liberty. Make America great for all.

Kevin Palmer, Martinez, Ga. -- (706) 231-1831 mom and younger sister in a tenement apartment. The streets have tempted him, and he has aligned himself with a violent, drug-dealing gang. His criminal life has gotten him into trouble. A subsequent stint doing community service at a cemetery, as punishment, introduces him to an elder actor named Terence (Ken Stott, “The Hobbit: The Battle of the Five Armies”). The two bond.

Then there’s George (Charlie Creed-Miles, “The Fifth Element”), a working class taxi driver. He and his wife Kathy (Kierston Wareing) are unable to have children. They are in the process of adopting. Proving that they are worthy parents is becoming a bit more difficult then they’d imagined. George has a past he is not proud of and snoopy adoption agency representatives are skeptical about his chances of ever getting a kid.

Once the divergent characters are set and their storylines are established, screenwriter Leon Butler takes the whole shebang on a journey of selfdiscovery that is mildly engaging, but never astonishing. As the tales collide and the characters influence each other’s lives, what’s on view seems contrived and not organically compelling.

This is the kind of drivel you can screen on Lifetime TV. It never rises to the level of the drama you’d view on Netflix, HBO, Amazon, FX or even NBC’s “Law & Order.”

Part of the problem is the shallow direction by Jim O’Hanlon, which fails to add any true grit to the script, enhance performances or use the production elements to their best advantage. Directors like Sidney Lumet (“Q&A”), John Cassavetes (“A Woman Under the Influence”), Ken Loach (“I, Daniel Blake”) and Kenneth Lonergan (“Manchester by the Sea”) find inventive ways to turn ordinary life into monumental struggles and suffering.

O’Hanlon cannot.

The aforementioned directors also have a knack for pulling the finest performances from their cast. They staged confrontational scenes in a way that made them feel as intense as a fight between Satan and God. They kept the production elements strikingly realistic.

O’Hanlon, who has an extensive background in British TV, does not have their mojo.

The musical score by Paul Saunderson neither helps nor hinders. Philipp Blaubach’s cinematography fails to evoke the usual magic of London streets. The costume design (Miss Molly), set decoration (Lee Gordon) and production design (Ricky Eyres) don’t make an indelible impression. If anything, they give the footage too glossy a feel, which makes it hard to imagine living inside the characters existence.

(Read full story on www.thewestsidegazette.com)

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Westside Gazette

FEBRUARY 9 - FEBRUARY 15, 2107 • PAGE 11

National Black Caucus of State Legislators call for debt collection reform

By Charlene Crowell When many consumers think of billion-dollar industries, banks and Wall Street often come to mind. Yet there is another industry in the same lucrative league that affects over 70 million consumers each year: debt collection.

In recent years, debt collection has consistently topped the list of consumer complaints received by the Federal Trade Commission, the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau (CFPB) and state Attorneys General. Further and according to the CFPB, more than 25 federal debt collection cases have been filed for deceiving and abusing consumers. Collectively, the cases have brought more than $300 million in restitution and another $100 million in civil penalties have resulted from these filings.

As state legislatures convene across the country for 2017 sessions, it appears that the National Black Caucus of State Legislators (NBCSL) has taken note of the harms that are caused by illegal debt collection practices. An NBCSL resolution calling for an end to abusive debt collection practices was ratified during the group’s annual December meeting.

Sponsored by North Carolina’s Senator Floyd B. McKissick, Jr., the resolution notes that “the overwhelming majority of people who are in debt and being pursued by debt

collectors are not in debt by choice; but due to circumstances such as unexpected job loss, divorce or other marital problems, and serious illness.”

Many Black neighborhoods are more likely to have residents with debts in collection.

The resolution further states that our neighborhoods also have double the number of debt judgments compared to White areas — –regardless of income levels.

“Unfair, abusive, and deceptive debt collection practices are hurting consumers and as a result, court judgments are entered against people for debts they do not legally owe”, said Senator McKissick.

“The NBCSL resolution affirms the need for strong consumer protections at the state and federal level. This is critically important as abusive debt collection practices frequently target not only African American communities, but seniors and military families as well.”

In calling for state legislatures to adopt initiatives requiring more detailed and accurate information and documentation in debt collection actions, the resolution also notes and supports CFPB’s efforts to promulgate a federal rule to address debt collection abuses.

Consumer advocates agree – a call for continued and coordinated support from both states and federal regulators is needed before consumers can find financial relief.

“States should continue to strengthen the rules and laws for debt collection to better protect consumers,” said Lisa Stifler, Deputy Director of State Policy with the Center for Responsible Lending. “Too often we’ve seen debt collectors file lawsuits in state courts against the wrong person or for a debt not owed. State legislatures and courts must stop this abusive financial practice by holding debt collectors accountable for initiating unwarranted legal actions.”

The need for reforms is supported by a recently-released CFPB report on consumer experiences with debt collection.

The report, based on a survey explored a range of issues such as frequency of contact, lawsuits, and the accuracy or inaccuracy of claims. Prominent among survey findings: · About 75 percent of consumers sued do not go to the court hearing, which generally makes them responsible for the debt; · 53 percent of consumers reported receiving collection attempts that were incorrect because the debt was not theirs, was the wrong amount, or was owed by a family member; · More than 40 percent of non-White consumers reported being contacted about a debt in collection, while only 29 percent of White consumers reported having the same experience.

“Some debt collectors care only about squeezing as much as they can from the names on their lists,” said CFPB Director Richard Cordray. “The typical collector is paid on commission and may have only a passing relationship with the debtor.

Some make the calculation that their chances of being called to

account later are remote. But the urgent impetus to secure immediate payment is ever present.”

“The Bureau’s survey demonstrates the urgent need for a strong federal rule on debt

collection,” said Melissa Stegman, a CRL Senior Policy Counsel. “We commend the CFPB for exploring this important topic in depth and look forward to the Bureau proposing a strong rule that frees consumers from

abusive debt collection practices,” concluded Stegman.

Charlene Crowell is the communications deputy director with the Center for Responsible Lending. She can be reached at charlene.crowell@responsiblelending.org.

CITY OF LAUDERHILL

PAGE 12 • FEBRUARY 9 - FEBRUARY 15, 2017

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Westside Gazette

Janet Uthman works to expand Comcast’s diversity efforts in the Black community

Uthman, the division vice president of Inclusion and Multicultural Marketing at Comcast, says that the cable giant continues to create content to appeal to African American and multicultural audiences. (Comcast)

By Stacy M. Brown (NNPA Newswire Contributor) In 2016, Janet Uthman was named to Ebony magazine’s Power 100, a distinction handed out to such notable African American achievers as the Obamas, Lonnie Bunch, Melissa Harris-Perry and John Legend.

Other publications have featured her as a “mover and shaker” and now Uthman, a former corporate marketing director at BET, has transitioned smoothly into a new role at Comcast, as the division vice president of Inclusion and Multicultural Marketing.

“As the head of Inclusion and Multicultural Marketing for Comcast’s Northeast Division, I am responsible for overseeing the planning and execution of diversity and inclusion efforts, as well as multicultural marketing strategies across the divi-

sion,” said Uthman, who joined Comcast in 2008, as region director of product management.

Uthman’s division is spread across 14 states including Maine, Vermont, New Hampshire, Pennsylvania, Maryland, Virginia, Delaware, Connecticut, Massachusetts and the District of Columbia.

She holds a master’s degree in business administration in marketing from the University of California, Los Angeles Anderson School of Management and a bachelor’s degree in accounting and finance from University of California, Berkeley and previously served as region sales director for the Disney Channel.

Prior to taking over her current role in October 2015, Uthman worked as vice president of Marketing and Sales at Comcast, where she gained a reputation for crafting competitive strategy and successfully building top performing sales teams, while delivering best in class results.

“This past year, I helped assemble a group of leaders across the Division who are committed to being champions of diversity and inclusion in all aspects of our business,” said Uthman.

“Together, we have continued to build on our initiatives to ensure all 22,000 of our employees across the division have an equal opportunity to succeed at Comcast and reflect the diverse communities in which we live and serve.”

The company’s Beltway Region Black Employee Network has also proven successful.

The Beltway Region, which includes the Washington, D.C. area, kicked off the Black Employee Network Employee Resource Group (ERG) last March to champion growth, development and opportunity for

individuals of color, Uthman said.

“Understanding the importance of employee resource groups, the region also recently launched the Veterans Network, Women’s Network and Young Professionals Network, and is looking to include others,” said Uthman. “In addition to networking, these groups provide peer-to-peer mentoring, help drive business initiatives, as well as improve community relations, as several members are involved in local organizations around the Greater Washington, D.C. area.”

Uthman has also been busy offering guidance on programming and product enhancements that appeal to multi-cultural audiences, and looking for opportunities to meet with customers at various local events, recognizing that not all customer segments can be addressed with one general marketing message.

“We continuously look to create culturally relevant marketing ads, as well as expand our programming content to appeal to African-American and multicultural audiences,” Uthman said. “We recently added the Impact Network, ASPiRE and REVOLT to our channel lineup, as well as distributed an RFP to add two additional African American majority owned networks by January 2019.”

Uthman continued: “We have also enhanced our products and services to make it easier for our viewers to find African American programming, including adding Black TV & Film, MLK Day and Black History Month folders to Xfinity On Demand.”

With respect to its engagement in local events, Comcast’s goal is to make authentic con-

nections by supporting causes important to the communities it serves, she said.

In 2016, Comcast’s Beltway Region supported the Lake Arbor Jazz Festival in Prince George’s County, the Washington Informer Spelling Bee, Howard University Charter Day, Radio One Prayer Breakfast; the company also held a special viewing party for the NAACP Image Awards in partnership with TV One. Comcast has also supported the African-American Festival in Baltimore and the Capital Jazz Festival in Columbia, Md. Further, “Comcast Cares Day,” a celebration of the company’s year-round commitment to service, has grown to become the nation’s largest, single-day corporate volunteer event.

In 2016, more than 100,000 volunteers improved more than 900 parks, schools, beaches, senior centers and other vital community sites in 21 countries during the 15th anniversary of Comcast Cares Day. In September 2016, the cable giant joined the YMCA of the USA in Philadelphia to announce a comprehensive $15.3 million partnership that combines the YMCA’s commitment to strengthening communities and improving the lives of children and families and the transformative potential of Comcast’s Internet Essentials, the nation’s largest and most comprehensive internet adoption program, to help prepare the next generation for the future.

“We value our partnership with Washington, D.C. leaders and organizations to close the digital divide,” said Uthman. “We offer the nation’s largest and most comprehensive broadband adoption program, Internet Essentials, which provides low-cost broadband

service for $9.95 a month, digital literacy training and discounted computers for low-income families.”

Uthman shared that Comcast announced last summer that the program’s eligibility standards would expand to households receiving HUD-housing assistance, including public housing, Housing Choice Voucher, and Multifamily programs.

“This announcement means even more individuals, including seniors, veterans and adults without children, are now eligible to apply for the program,” said Uthman.

In five years, the Internet Essentials program has connected more than 750,000 lowincome families – or more than three million Americans – to the Internet at home.

Uthman said her work remains cut out for her, but she’s up to the challenge. Her drive has already been acknowledged as she was named to Ebony

magazine’s Power 100.

“It was a tremendous honor to be named alongside such luminaries. I was literally speechless when I heard the news,” Uthman said. “Ebony magazine was a huge part of my life growing up, as it was one of the few places to see positive portrayals of African American people in the media at that time.”

While honors and accolades are welcome, Uthman said she’s most passionate about her job and what it entails.

“I love having the opportunity to build on and create new initiatives to ensure all our employees across the Northeast Division have an equal opportunity to succeed in the organization,” Uthman said. “I also enjoy partnering with our corporate team to create strategies to attract and retain multicultural consumers. This role is the perfect combination of my passion and my purpose.”