The Westside Gazette

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100 Black Men of Greater Fort Lauderdale Mentee Elijah Manley has begun his path toward greatness

Manley has some big plans for his future in the political arena. The 15-year-old sophomore attends Fort Lauderdale High where he is active in the school’s Naval ROTC program and Magnet Criminal Justice Program.

By Charles Moseley The late Reverend Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. once said,” “Everybody can be great...because anybody can serve. You don’t have to have a

college degree to serve. You don’t have to make your subject and verb agree to serve. You only need a heart full of grace.

A soul generated by love.”

Take Elijah Manley, a 15year-old sophomore at Fort Lauderdale High School, where he is enrolled in their Navy ROTC Program as well as the Criminal Justice Magnet Program. He has already set his goals in life at a very high level.

By all outward appearances Manley looks like your typical unassuming teenager. However, upon closer examination, this young man is anything but typical. He displays a very calm demeanor which belies the intensity in his eyes when asked about his views on things going on in the complex world we live in.

Manley is among a chosen few who refuse to stand on the outside looking in, who don’t just want to go through life going along with the crowd but rather would rather become a leader and make a difference in the world.

While a lot of teenagers are aspiring to become the next superstar pro athlete ala LeBron “King” James or multi platinum rapper extraordinaire, ala Jay Z, Manley has chosen a different path in life. He has set a much loftier goal, one similar to that of a gentleman by the name of Barack Hussein Obama. Manley has set his sights on one day residing on a piece of property, which just happens to be located along Pennsylvania Avenue in our nation’s capital.

For now he resides in Fort Lauderdale with his mother Marchette Davis and has seven brothers and three sisters. As for now, Manley’s goals include attending college and pursuing a graduate degree in Political Science and PHD in Criminology. He also plans to serve in the military as an officer in either the U.S. Navy or Army.

“After that, I am going straight into politics and may well be your next President. I would love to have a family, and one day meet President Obama.”

I first became aware of Elijah Manley through Delores Bul-

lard. Bullard, who was the former President of the North Broward Branch of the NAACP was befriended by the young man.

They met after she delivered a speech during Black History Month, at the Universal Christian Church of Christ in Oakland Park, Fla. Shortly thereafter; Bullard, who was the first Black female police officer on the Pompano Beach Police Department, suggested that he take some suggestions on developing his leadership skills, one of which was that he contact the 100 Black Men of Greater Fort Lauderdale regarding its Leadership Academy.

“I think he’s a very bright and intelligent young man. And I believe whatever he sets his sights on in life he will achieve,” said Bullard.

Manley began participating in the 100’s Leadership Academy last year and presently attends the Saturday morning sessions at Nova Southeastern University’s Huizenga School of Business.

A misinformed voting people equals a lost voting people!

Choose wise and discerning and experienced men from your tribes, and I will appoint them as your heads.’

Deuteronomy 1:13 (NASB)

By Bobby R. Henry, Sr. Let me congratulate those candidates who won their respective races during the primary elections, their opponents and those citizens who thought it important, respectful and a requirement to fulfill their obligations to other citizens in trying to get the best representation for the needs of their communities.

It is a very sad and disappointing day when Black people fail at an opportunity to make a difference in the political make-up of any given arena, especially when afforded the privilege to change it by voting and having your votes counted.

(Cont'd on Page 4)

Problematic

Police strategies

By Lauren Victoria Burke NNPA Columnist It’s been two months since Daniel Pantaleo strangled Eric Garner, 48, to death on a

(Cont'd on Page 12)

Florida man who shot unarmed Black teen New Nielsen study underscores after loud music dispute convicted of murder need for diversity Dunn asked the car of teens, including Davis, to turn their music down. His fiancée, Rhonda Rouer, says the last thing she heard him say was, “I hate that thug music.” Rouer was in the convenience store when she heard gunshots, and when she ran outside, he told her to get in the car and they drove away.

Dunn claimed he saw a gun and believed the boys were armed and dangerous. But police found no gun in the car. He said he heard Davis threaten to kill him, and responded by rolling down the window of his car and asking, “Are you talking to me?” Dunn and Rouer left the scene without calling 911 and spent the night in a hotel, as planned, and their testimony differed about what happened that night and in the days that followed.

(Cont'd on page 4)

Nielsen’s McNeil says Blacks are trendsetters.

By Jazelle Hunt NNPA Washington Correspondent WASHINGTON, D.C. (NNPA) – The most effective way for companies to connect with African Americans is by reflecting diversity in their advertisements and utilizing Black media, according to a new study by Nielsen.

This year’s edition titled, “Powerful Growing Influential: The African-American Consumer 2014 Report,” marks the start of a partnership between Nielsen and Essence magazine.

It was released last week during the Congressional Black Caucus Foundation Annual Leadership Conference.

“What’s also important is when you take a look at other groups as well, you’ll find that they are also more likely to buy a product [when shown diversity],” said Cheryl PearsonMcNeil, senior vice president of U.S. Strategic Community Alliances and Consumer Engagement for Nielsen. “PearsonMcNeil says. “…Campaigns that have ads in it featuring Blacks also resonate with Caucasian and Hispanic audiences, as they find diversity in casting equally, or as likeable than advertisements featuring only their own ethnicity.”

(Read full story on www.the westsidegazette.com)

CDC: Newly diagnosed Black HIV-Positive MSM fall out of care, have lowest viral suppression Am I at risk?

A new report from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) in Atlanta shows that only half (49.5 percent) of gay and bisexual men diagnosed with HIV in the U.S. are getting treatment for their infection. And of that number, only 42 percent have achieved viral suppression—a validation that their virus is under control at a level that helps keep them healthy while also significantly reducing their chances of transmitting HIV to others.

And although these low numbers raise concerns across the entire MSM community, statistics for Black MSM (Men Sleep-

Michael Dunn enters the courtroom for a hearing at the Duval County Courthouse on March 10, 2014, in Jacksonville, Fla.

By Nicole Flatow On the second try, prosecutors secured a first degree murder conviction of Michael Dunn, the man who shot and killed 17-year-old Jordan Davis after a dispute over loud music at a Jacksonville convenience store.

Jurors found Dunn guilty of first-degree murder late Wednesday (10-1-14) afternoon, more than seven months after another jury deadlocked on whether to convict Dunn of that charge. The racially tinged Stand Your Ground case sparked national outrage and evoked

memories of Trayvon Martin and other shootings of young, Black men in purported selfdefense.

Jordan’s father Ron Davis said after the verdict Thursday that he “wanted Jacksonville to be an example” that you can have a jury made up of mostly white individuals, and still see justice. “Let’s make sure the decisions we make … are based on witness’ testimony and the importance of the case and not a bias against one another,” he said.

The shooting occurred in the parking lot outside a Jacksonville convenience store, after

Pleading Our Own Cause

ing with Men)—particularly young Black men—prove to be even more alarming.

While white and Latino MSM diagnosed with HIV achieved viral suppression at 43.9 and 43.5 percent respectively, only 37 percent of Black MSM achieved it.

In comparisons of the overall statistics for young gay and bisexual men (ages 18-24) diagnosed with HIV, a disappointing 25.9 percent had achieved viral suppression—suggesting even lower numbers for young Black men in this demographic.

(Read full story on www.thewestsidegazette.com)

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PANTALEO

WILSON sidewalk in Staten Island, N.Y. Darren Wilson shot 18-yearold Michael Brown to death on Aug. 9. Since then, there has been nothing but silence from Officers Pantaleo and Wilson.

The police killings have also been met with silence from socalled law and order types who are more interested in order than law.

Tougher police tactics, including the unjustified killing of unarmed African Americans, seem to be escalating at a time crime rates are declining. New York City, which has a population of more than eight million people, including at least two million African Americans, is a case in point.

The crime rate there has been falling for more than a decade.

In 2012, there were 419 murders. By 2013, that figure had fallen to 332.

(Read full story on www.thewestsidegazette.com) MEMBER: National Newspaper Publishers Association ( NNPA), and Southeastern African-American Publishers Association (SAAPA) Florida Association of Black Owned Media (FABOM)

Page 2 • www.thewestsidegazette.com • October 9 - October 15, 2014

Obama: Let’s finish the unfinished work

Obama: At CBC dinner, Obama said much work ahead.

(Photo by Roy Lewis/NNPA)

By George E. Curry gone down by about 10 percent.

NNPA Editor-in-Chief That’s the first time they’ve deWASHINGTON, D.C. clined at the same time in more (NNPA) – Though the U.S. has than 40 years. Fewer folks in made tremendous progress jail. Crime still going down.

“But our work is not done since the passage of the landmark Civil Rights Act of 1964, when too many children live in there is plenty of unfinished crumbling neighborhoods, work to be done in order to cycling through substandard make the nation a more perfect schools, traumatized by daily union, President Barack Oba- violence. Our work is not done when working Americans of all ma says.

“Our high school graduation races have seen their wages rate is at a record high, the and incomes stagnate, even as dropout rate is falling, more corporate profits soar; when young people are earning col- African American unemploylege degrees than ever before,” ment is still twice as high as Obama told those attending white unemployment; when inSaturday night’s Congressional come inequality, on the rise for Black Caucus awards dinner. decades, continues to hold back “Last year, the number of chil- hardworking communities, dren living in poverty fell by especially communities of color.

1.4 million – the largest decline We’ve got unfinished work.” since 1966. Since I took office, (Read full story on the overall crime rate and the overall incarceration rate has www.thewestsidegazette.com)

Broward County's Oldest and Largest African American Owned and Operated Newspaper

Friends of the Broward County African American Research Library and Cultural Center honor distinguished achievers

GIBBONS

JOHNSON

MCKINLEY

DR. MERRITT

The Friends of the Broward County African American Research Library and Cultural Center’s (Friends of AARLCC’s) 2014 Annual Luncheon will be held at noon on Saturday, Oct. 18, at the Westin Fort Lauderdale Hotel, located at 400 Corporate Dr., Fort Lauderdale.

AARLCC President Janice Henry reports, “The Friends of AARLCC will pay tribute to six distinguished honorees that embody the theme, ‘Ordinary People doing Extraordinary Things.’”

Esteemed honorees include Dr. Gordon Merritt, who is a Lifetime Achievement Award recipient. Other honorees of distinction include Delores McKinley, CPA; Dr. Dorsey Miller and Representative Joseph A. Gibbons, who are Community Service and Distinguished Achievement Award recipients.

In addition, Minister and author Vikki Kennedy Johnson and Frank Scruggs, Esq., are Heritage and Community Service Award recipients.

Dr. Gordon Merritt, a dedicated dentist, whose office is located on Sistrunk Boulevard,

has faithfully served inner-city clients for almost half a century.

His wife, Rose Merritt, and daughter, Dr. Pamela Merritt, are ardent supporters of the Friends of AARLCC. Delores Y. McKinley, a certified public accountant, is a recent retiree of the Broward County School Board. She is a graduate of St. Thomas Aquinas High and Clark University.

In July 2014, she completed a second term as International Treasurer of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority. She was recently honored as one of Broward County’s “Most Influential and Prominent Black Women in Business and Leadership” for 2014 by Legacy Magazine.

Dr. Dorsey Miller served as an educator and district administrator in the Broward County school system for more than 35 years and is a prominent business man. He served as national president of the Omega Psi Phi Fraternity and continues to be active locally and at the national level. Dr. Miller is a graduate of Morehouse University and therefore is a “Morehouse Man.” Rep. Joseph Gibbons serves

in the Florida State Legislature and works diligently to assure South Florida receives its fair share of state funds. He was instrumental in securing increased funding for our county libraries.

Vikki Kennedy Johnson, daughter of Art and Joyce Kennedy, is an executive with BET, an author and a minister.

Vikki grew up in Fort Lauderdale and played on two national basketball championship teams at Dillard High School.

Frank Scruggs, Esq., son of Frank and Frances Scruggs, is a partner in the Florida business law firm of Berger Singerman, PA. He is listed in The Best Lawyers in America, Trend’s Florida Legal Elite and Florida Super Lawyers. Frank is a graduate of St. Thomas Aquinas High, where he served as co-captain of the football team.

Friends of AARLCC proudly continue this tradition of honoring Ordinary People Doing Extraordinary Things. Since 2003, 78 distinguished achievers have been a part of this legacy.

DR. MILLER

SCRUGGS

Broward County's Oldest and Largest African American Owned and Operated Newspaper

Paula Pearson-Tucker invited to play in members. Legends 'The Legends Tour' ofTourFame players have over 675

Through a special sponsor’s exemption from the wonderful folks at Walgreens, Paula Pearson-Tucker, Fore Life, Inc. executive director, has been invited to play in the upcoming LPGA Legends Tour event Nov. 8-9, 2014.

The Legends Tour is the official senior tour of the LPGA. The tour began in 2000 by LPGA professionals to showcase the talents of some of the greatest women’s golfers of all time.

The Legends Tour has more than 120 members, including 12 LPGA and World Golf Hall

combined LPGA Tour victories, including 70 major championships.

In its 13 seasons, The Legends Tour has awarded more than $11 million in prize money and helped raise more than $14 million for charity. The Legends Tour has hosted events in Arizona, Connecticut, Florida, Hawaii, Indiana, Iowa, Maine, Massachusetts, Michigan, New Hampshire, New Jersey, Wisconsin, Japan, and Australia.

The Legends Tour will feature 48 LPGA Tour Legends competing in a two-day event on the official senior tour of the LPGA. The championship will be hosted by The Seagate Country Club in Delray Beach, Fla. Paula is asking for your support and encouragement. “This is a dream come true for me and it would mean the world to have you come out and watch me play.”

For additional information on The Legends Tour, log on to www.thelegendstour.com h t t p : / / www.theseagatehotel.com/ blog/tickets-go-on-sale-forwalgreens-legends-event-indelray-beach

Crist connects with FAMU students

Democratic Gubernatorial candidate Charlie Crist with students of FAMU. FAMU, TALLAHASSEE, FL —Democratic Gubernatorial candidate Charlie Crist laid out his plans to rebuild Florida’s education system to an enthusiastic group of student leaders.

Crist entered the FAMU student senate chamber to applause from about 80 students and student government leaders. Crist was on campus for a

Tracy Mourning visits Hallandale Adult Community Center On Oct. 2, 2014 Tracy Wilson Mourning, founder of Honey Shine Mentoring Organization and wife of NBA great, Alonzo Mourning, visited Hallandale Adult Community Center to speak with students participating in one of the school’s four mentoring programs.

Mrs. Mourning shared her inspiring story of resilience and perseverance. She told the audience of young adults, “We all have a story; we all have the power to influence how it evolves and how it ends.”

Mrs. Mourning was amazed by the many programs housed at Hallandale Adult Community Center: the alternative high school for students in grades seventh -12, the eighth grade academy program, the GED ® and ESOL programs.

She had special words for each of the special populations,

October 9 - October 15, 2014 • www.thewestsidegazette.com • Page 3

Mrs. Mourning speaks with one of our students after the event words that empowered students rector, business partners and to “know their worth.” mentors. The event was sponThe audience members in- sored, in part by Ramona cluded Broward Schools Police Chief Anthony C. Williams, Dr. Hall, school partner and CEO Valerie Wanza, Cadre 11 Di- of Phillips Consulting Group.

roundtable discussion on a variety of issues.

The former governor discussed the need to rebuild and properly fund Florida’s public education infrastructure. He says the effort will shore up the

foundation for the future of Florida.

Deep cuts to university budgets have hampered progress according to Crist who, like other critics, say Governor Rick Scott is no friend to education.

Scott cut an unprecedented $1.3 billion from Florida classrooms and has hampered pay raises and other incentives for public school teachers and public employees.

Governor Rick Scott’s only visit to Florida A&M University was for a prayer breakfast and a gala for his then Lt. Governor Jennifer Carroll in January of 2011.

Scott forced Carroll, the first African American Lt. Govern in Florida, to resign two years later because of her connection to an internet café embroiled in scandal. Carroll was never charged with wrongdoing.

Scott also prompted the only FAMU student march on the governor’s mansion in 2012.

Over 2,000 students converged on the mansion to protest Scott’s attempt to oust then President James Ammons.

School choice equals parental choice While every parent wants to provide the best education for their children, not every parent has access to a quality school.

In a perfect world every family would live in a neighborhood with an excellent public school or be able to afford to send their children to the private school of their choosing that meets their needs. Unfortunately, we don’t live in a perfect world and many parents, based on their zip code alone, must send their children to failing and underperforming schools.

In 2004, while serving as member of the Louisiana State Senate in New Orleans, my constituents were calling and visiting my Senate office begging me to do something to help their children. The public school system was in turmoil. Many of the schools were failing academically and parents considered them unsafe.

During this time I would go home and see my beautiful daughters, who attended private schools and didn’t have the same worries. At that moment I realized how blessed we were.

If I wanted to continue to have the blessings that God gave me, I needed to bless other folks and use my position and influence to help these families.

As a community, it’s critical that we acknowledge that not every school can meet the needs of each and every student. A school that is a perfect fit for one student could be a very poor match for another. Each student learns differently, has

different needs, thrives best in different environments, and each family has different values for their children’s education.

In our communities we have many excellent schools of all types. We also have many programs and options in place that parents of all backgrounds can access. I am proud to have authored and supported school choice legislation, including Student Scholarships for Educational Excellence program in New Orleans in 2008, the precursor of the Louisiana Scholarship Program.

While charter schools and traditional, direct-run schools are the ones most often discussed, the Louisiana Scholarship Program provides parents an even greater landscape of options. Such a program provides an educational choice for a parent that they might not otherwise be able to make, providing the opportunity for a brighter future for their children. The Louisiana scholarship program, which makes available vouchers for students to attend a private school of their family’s choice, coupled with the other school choice options puts families in the driver’s seat of their children’s education.

While there are many reasons and factors that go into a parent’s educational decision – safety, academics, religious or moral teachings, etc., the important thing is that parents not be limited in the choices which they are able to make so as not to

DUPLESSIS limit the level of success their children can meet.

Ann Duplessis, President, Louisiana Federation for Children Ann Duplessis is a former state legislator where she served on the Senate Education Committee and fought successfully to expand educational options for Louisiana’s children by authoring and supporting numerous pieces of school choice legislation. She currently serves as chairman of the Louisiana State University Board of Supervisors. Duplessis resides in New Orleans and remains active in numerous civic activities.

The Louisiana Federation for Children, a project of the American Federation for Children and the Alliance for School Choice, is dedicated to promoting educational choice by protecting, growing and expanding scholarship programs for low and middle-income children.

CONGRESSWOMAN FREDERICA S. WILSON BRINGS MOTHERS AND FAMILIES OF MURDERED CHILDREN TO THE NATION’S CAPITAL FOR THE CONGRESSIONAL BLACK CAUCUS “MY BROTHER’S KEEPER” TOWN HALL MEETING — Congresswoman Frederica S. Wilson (FL-24), chairwoman of the Congressional Black Caucus “My Brother’s Keeper” Task Force, recently brought together, for the first time in the nation’s capital, mothers and family members of murdered children for the Congressional Black Caucus Foundation My Brother’s Keeper town hall meeting on Friday, Sept. 26, 2014. Rev. Al Sharpton, host of MSNBC’s Politics Nation, served as moderator. Broderick Johnson and Jim Shelton, co-chairs of the White House “My Brother’s Keeper” initiative, served as panelists. The families of Michael Brown, Eric Garner, Trayvon Martin, Sean Bell and Eviton Brown participated in a series of panel discussions along with law enforcement officials, educators, community leaders, clergy and other stakeholders.

Marian Tolan, mother of Robbie Tolan who was shot outside his home by a Bellaire, Texas police officer after he and his family feels he was racially profiled. Just recently, a U.S. Supreme Court Justices—in a unanimous decision—ordered the 5th U.S. Circuit Court of Appeals to reconsider a lawsuit filed by Robbie Tolan.

Texas. Tolan says the ruling means he will have a chance to argue before a jury that Sgt. Jeffrey Cotton, a white officer, racially profiled him and mistreated Tolan’s family because of their races. It’s a claim that Tolan, the son of former major league baseball player, Bobby Tolan, and his family fiercely support. Queen Brown, lives in Miami. Her son Eviton Brown was shot and killed by someone targeting her nephew. Eviton was with his cousin when he was shot and killed a few years ago. His mother started a support group and travels around the country speaking about violence and the murders of Black boys and men. Sabrina Fulton, mother of Trayvon Martin. Congresswoman Frederica S. Wilson Congresswoman; Shelia Jackosn-Lee (Texas); Gwen Carr, mother of Eric Garner, who was choked to death by a NYC police officer; Valerie Bell, mother of Sean Bell, shot and killed by New York police officers a day before his wedding and Lesley McSpadden, mother of 18 year old Michael Brown who was recently shot and killed by white police officer in Ferguson, MO.

Page 4 • www.thewestsidegazette.com • October 9 - October 15, 2014

Broward County's Oldest and Largest African American Owned and Operated Newspaper

Drake Sworn named Fire Captain by City of Pompano Beach Fire Rescue

By Charles Moseley As part of a reorganization effort by the City of Pompano Beach Fire Department, long time fire fighter Drake Sworn was recently named Fire Captain of Fire & Rescue.

“In the latest Collective Bargaining Agreement (CBA) sign-

ed between the City of Pompano Beach and the Local 1549 Pompano Beach Firefighters, it was agreed that the reclassification of fire engine Lieutenants to Fire Captains would occur. All 29 engine officers are being reclassified,” said Pompano Beach Fire Chief John Jurgle.

Sworn has been with the City of Pompano Beach Fire & Rescue Department since 1985.

Sworn is a graduate of Nova High School’s Class of 1973 and a former member of the Florida A & M University Marching 100, where he played baritone trumpet.

Sworn’s parents Samuel J. Sworn Jr., and Millicent Sworn were educators in the Broward County Public School’s System for over 30 years, which is probably where he developed a knack for helping people.

“I still like the idea of helping others in different situations.

People don’t dial 911 usually unless it’s an emergency or something that they feel they can’t handle. Now a days because of the resources that our department receives from both the City of Pompano Beach and Broward County we are equipped to handle many different situations,” said Captain Sworn.

The 29 year veteran offered the following advice to a young man or woman considering a career as a firefighter.

“Part of becoming a firefighter requires a desire to want to be able to do a lot of different jobs. For a young person who wants to gain knowledge in a

CORRECTION In Last week edition of the Westside Gazette (Oct. 2, 1014) and error was made in the article entitled Chi Psi Omega Chapter partners with members of the Divine Nine; it should have read: Nearly 100 community participants braved inclement weather to attend this forum with many of the candidates or representatives in attendance. We apologize for the error.

Sworn has been with the City of Pompano Beach Fire Department since 1985. variety of areas and likes helping others-the payoff comes at the end. It takes a person with patience; the training can be grueling so you have to have a heart, a love for what you’re doing. It’s just like a fast break play in basketball-high speed and hard to do properly, but it’s great when you finally score a basket at the end of the play.”

Pompano Beach City Commissioner Woodrow “Woody” Poitier was with the City’s Fire Rescue for 23½ years. The former Paramedic Lieutenant Supervisor shared some of his experiences with Sworn when they both worked together at the fire station.

“Drake was my paramedic; he was thorough and did an excellent job. He’s been in the system long enough to know the ends and outs. Drake is a people’s person. He was Pittsburg Steelers fan and I liked the Miami Dolphins so we had our differences but, I feel he is a fine man.”

Sworn and his wife Yolanda reside in Pompano Beach. They are the proud parents of two sons and three daughters.

Dr. Rosalind Osgood is an AARLCC Culture Keeper!

By Steve Vinik On Monday, Nov. 10, 2014, Dr. Rosalind Osgood will be the third “African-American Culture Keeper” to be honored by the African-American Research Library and Cultural Center (AARLCC) at 4 p.m. The library’s first Culture Keeper honoree was W. George Allen, Esq., a pioneer in Florida civil rights, and the second was Broward County’s Mayor Barbara Sharief.

According to AARLCC’s Pearl Woolridge, a Culture Keeper is “someone who has made significant contributions to the community in such areas as education, religion or politics.” Ms. Woolridge is coordinating the Culture Keeper programs and arranging for the programs to be video-recorded, a copy to be kept in the archives of the library to be shared with future generations.

Dr. Rosalind Osgood is a former adjunct professor at Nova Southeastern University in the Masters of Public Administration Program. She is the author of two academic articles, “Moral Development and Municipal Elected Officials” and “Ethics in Municipal Government in Florida”. Dr. Osgood is also the author of The Story Behind the Story, a literary repose that discusses the value that mentoring has added to her life.

On Nov. 6, 2012, Dr. Osgood was elected to the School Board of Broward County to represent District 5 by 70 percent of the voters. In 2013, Dr. Osgood became the first female Chaplain for the City of Fort Lauderdale Police Department.

Dr. Osgood is a Broward County native. She is a graduate of Fort Lauderdale High School and single mother of three adult children who are college graduates. She has earned both a Master’s and Doc-

DR. OSGOOD toral Degree in Public Administration from Nova Southeastern University. In 2001, she had the unique honor of being the first woman in the history of the New Mount Olive Baptist Church to be licensed, ordained, and positioned in the pulpit, by the late preacher extraordinaire, Rev. Dr. Mack King Carter.

In December 2007, she earned a Master’s of Divinity Degree from New Orleans Southern Baptist Theological Seminary.

She is the Founder of Dr. Rosalind Osgood Ministries International and the Women Reaching Women Word Network International Prayer Ministry. She is the president/ CEO of Mount Olive Development Corporation (MODCO).

Dr. Osgood’s life is a prime example of how education, faith in God, and community support can provide opportunities that might otherwise have been unimaginable.

The AARLCCs located at 2650 Sistrunk Blvd., Fort Lauderdale, FL 33311. Call the Welcome Desk at (954) 357-6210.

For more information about Broward County Libraries, visit broward.org/library.

A misinformed voting people equals a lost voting people!

Florida man who shot unarmed Black teen

(Cont'd from FP)

(Cont'd from FP)

We have 27 days before we cast our final votes for new leadership of our state government, new Amendments and Bonds that will affect our taxes for needed services to our children.

Never mind that we fail at creating a healthier opportunity for us to be successful by doing our preliminary homework.

We need to “meet before the meeting” to strategize to put the BEST person in the position to win and to make sure that all Bonds and Amendments are explained and understood.

Is it pride or is it stupidity or just stupid pride? How soon we forget or did we ever learn that, “Pride goes before destruction, a haughty spirit before a fall?” Proverbs 16:18 When it comes to understanding what is best for a certain people, those people must be involved and must be heard, even if it means “taking a horse to the water, even if the horse doesn’t drink” at least you would have made it available.

Voting is a privilege that has individual benefits and when those benefits become personal to the extent that they jeopardize the well being of a community, we need to check ourselves and do a reality check to find out where we really stand, lest we forget the lives that were taken for our right to vote, not just to vote but to vote with the knowledge and confidence of knowing what you were voting for.

With less than 15 percent of the voting population turned out to vote, the question is, do we truly want our voices heard?

If you don’t vote, “don’t say nothing ‘bout nothing!” We need to encourage voter education to do away with voter stagnation because of information complication.

A significant part of our judicial system will have undergone a dramatic change if our current state government stays the same and a lot of us won’t have any idea what happens until we find more of our family members going before judges who do not look like them and our children can only compete in their neighborhoods and not on a global level because of a deficiency in our educational system.

The lost of minority judges will increase, which will lead to an over abundance of minority representation in our penal system due to the lack of a cultural understanding. A judgeship and all that surrounds it is suppose to be non-partisan and unbiased. It will be difficult to tell if things remains the same.

I remember a commercial that said, “If this is progress I don’t want to go.” We have a lot of work to do. Just when it appeared that we were moving ahead in the right direction, we have taken an about face to be headed towards a new slavery, one that shackles mentally instead of physically.

What happens if we carry a misinformed, mentally enslaved, shackled mind into the Nov. 4th Mid-Term Election?

We will have blown an opportunity that… who knows?, may be gone forever.

Yes, it is important to vote but also it is extremely important to know who to vote for and what to vote for, so don’t just vote!

Vote with authority so we all can be helped! Don’t let it go up in smoke even if it’s suppose to be healthy medical smoke.

Every Bond is not a good connection if it doesn’t bring communities together.

“We then that are strong ought to bear the infirmities of the weak, and not to please ourselves.” Romans 15:1 27 DAYS AND COUNTING BEFORE A CHANGE COMES

In February, Dunn was found guilty on three counts of second-degree attempted murder — one for each of three of Dunn’s friends who were also in the line of fire as Dunn fired ten rounds into their sport utility vehicle. The jury deadlocked on the first-degree murder charge, the judge declared a mistrial on the first degree murder count, allowing prosecutors to reach a new trial. D u n n faces a mandatory sentence of 25 years to life in prison without parole.

Just prior to that first trial, the State Attorney’s Office released a set of letters Dunn sent from prison revealing significant animus toward Blacks.

“The more time I am exposed to these people, the more prejudiced against them I become,” he said in one. “This jail is full of Blacks and they all act like thugs,” he said in another.

The letters did not come into play during trial. But they reveal the sort of racial undertones that have been prominent in many Stand Your Ground cases. One study found that white defendants with black victims are far more likely to have their killings deem “justified” under the Stand Your Ground law, which was cited during the first trial. After that trial, one juror told ABC News that the reason for the deadlock was because several jurors believed Dunn was “justified” in shooting Davis under Florida’s self-defense laws. She pointed to a section of the jury instructions that includes the state’s notorious Stand Your Ground law as being central to their deliberations.

Broward County's Oldest and Largest African American Owned and Operated Newspaper

October 9 - October 15, 2014 • www.thewestsidegazette.com • Page 5

Community Digest

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

Walk

American Cancer Society Making Strides Against Breast Cancer 5K walk, Saturday, Oct. 11, 2014 registration begins at 7:30 a.m., walk begins at 9 a.m., rain or shine, at Huizenga Plaza Downtown Fort Lauderdale, One E. Las Olas Blvd., Fort Lauderdale, Fla. For additional info contact Jen Appel at (305) 582-2367.

Drive

Shoe Drive, Saturday, Oct. 11, 2014 from 3 to 5 p.m., at Reigns and Pours Creations Company, 4600 N.W. Ninth Ct., #3 Plantation, Fla. Proceeds will benefit Reigns and Pours Creations Company; Adult Lifelong Learning Service. Visit our website: reignsandpours.com For more info call (954) 4844168.

Fashion Show

Happenings at African-American Research Library and Cultural Center

The African-American Research Library and Cultural Center is located at 2650 Sistrunk Blvd., Fort Lauderdale, Fla. Call the Welcome Desk at (954) 357-6210.

AARLCC, hosting a Breast Cancer Awareness Session on two different Saturdays, Oct. 11 and 18, 2014 from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. The session will be led by two experienced nurses, Sandra P. Boyne and Roshanda Littlejohn. For more info call (954) 357-6224.

Moving4Words Productions presents Daddy’s Girl “When pain turns to un-forgivenes,” Saturday, Oct. 18, 2014 from 2 to 6 p.m. Written by Stacy Goldsmith-Ison. For ticket and additional info call (954) 2285536.

Luncheon African Fashion Boutique Fashion Show on Saturday, Oct. 18, 2014 from 10 to 11 a.m. at 2000 N.W. 55 Ave., Lauderhill, Fla. For cost and additional info call (954) 484-4168.

Forum

Sistah to Sistah Connection cordially invites all ladies to attend our life-changing 9th Annual Women’s Outreach Luncheon, Saturday, Oct. 11, 2014 at 10:30 a.m., at the Signature Grand, 6900 W. State Rd., Davie, Fla. Wear your favorite hat. Tickets can be purchased online at www.sistahosistahconnection.com

Event

City of Fort Lauderdale Police Department, Community Police Forum, Wednesday, Oct. 15 and Wednesday, Nov. 19, 2014, (formerly known as The Civilians Police Academy, Lauderdale Manors Recreation Center, 1340 Chateau Park, Dr., Fort Lauderdale, Fla.

Meet the Candidates Night, Monday, Oct. 13, 2014 from 6 to 9 p.m., at E. Pat Larkins Center, 520 MLK Blvd., Pompano Beach, Fla.

EDUCATION MATTERS Every Child Deserves a Chance to Succeed.

Workshop

Fish Fry

Broward Cultural Division will offer a grant application workshop for the Cultural Investment Program, Thursday, Oct. 16, 2014 at 2 p.m., in the Main Library, Seventh Floor, Cybrary, 100 S. Andrews Ave., Fort Lauderdale, Fla. For additional info contact Adriane Clarke at (954) 357-7530.

Dillard Comprehensive High School Class of 1970 presents Annual Fish Fry Scholarship Fundraiser, Saturday, Oct. 18, 2014 from 11:30 a.m. to 5 p.m., at the Black Firefighter’s Hall, 1612 N.W. Sistrunk Blvd., (SE corner of NW 17th Avenue and NW Sixth St.), Fort Lauderdale, Fla.

Event

Event

Minority Enterprise Development Week, Medweek2014 32nd Annual Business Matchmaker Conference & Award Gala, Thursday, Oct. 16 -17, 2014 at 3000 N.E. 151 St., North Miami, Fla. For time and additional info call (305) 5767888 or 1-800-730-5581.

Open House

Proposed Ordinance Revisions Florida-Friendly Landscaping, Tuesday, Oct. 14, 2014 from 5 to 6:30 p.m., at City Hall, First Floor Commission Chamber, 100 N. Andrews Ave., Fort Lauderdale, Fla. For additional info contact Adrienne Ehle at aehle@fortlauderdale.gov or (954) 828-5798.

Celebration Pat Casterlow and Friends present A Celebration of Life ‘5’ with a fashion show celebrating life of cancer survivors on Oct. 18, 2014 from 5 to 9 p.m. at the Northwest Federated Women’s Club (NFWC), 2161 N. W. 19 St., Fort Lauderdale, Fla. Proceeds to benefit the NFWC, The ministry of Missionary Janice Lewis and Lakeisha Daniels Hamilton Scholarship Fund.

For more info call (954) 7607519 or (954) 730-3442.

An invitation , you are cordially invited to attend "A Supper Club Event, featuring Fine Dinning, Newest Fashion and entertainment", Saturday, Oct. 18, 2014 at 6 p.m., at Mt. Hermon AME Church, 404 N.W. Seventh Terr., Fort Lauderdale, Fla. Rev. Henry E. Green, pastor. Presented by The Francis Ferguson Board of Mt. Hermon AME Church, Celebrating its 70th Year of Serivce.

This is an adult event. For cost and additional info call (954) 463-6309.

Conference

Special Ministry to Women Conference, Wednesday, Oct. 15 thru Sunday, Oct. 19, 2014 at 8:15 a.m., at Judah Worship Ministries International, 4441 W. Sunrise Blvd., Plantation, Fla. Dr. W.L. Mitchell, senior pastor. Prophetess and recording artist Jekalyn Carr of West Memphis, AR. Conference speakers will include Dr. Ane Mercer and Pastor Erika Toney of Jacksonville, Fla. For more info call the church at (954) 791-2999.

Forum Education Not Incarceration Community Forum, Monday, Oct. 20, 2014 at 6:30 p.m., at Mount Bethel Baptist Church, 901 N.W. 11 Ave, Fort Lauderdale, Fla. Dr. Rosalind Osgood- District 5 Broward School Board Representative and Marsha EllisonPresident, NAACP of Broward County will host an impressive panel of activists and professionals dedicated to keeping our kids from being arrested and discussing the essence of education over incarceration. Why: It has been reported that the Broward Public School District had 1,062 school-related arrests during the 2011-2012 school year, in which 71% were for misdemeanor offenses. In addition, across the country, students of color, students with disabilities and LGBTQ students were disproportionately impacted by school-based arrests for the same behavior as their peers.

Candidates’ Forum The Boynton Beach Community High School will host a Candidates’ Forum in the school’s state-of-the-art, 800seat auditorium on Thursday, Oct. 16, 2014 from 4:30 to 6:30 p.m., the school is located 4975 Park Ridge Blvd., Boynton Beach, Fla. The forum will be monitored by the League of Women Voters of Palm Beach County. The following candidates have been invited and are expected to attend: * Lois Frankel (D) and Paul Spain (R) U.S. House of Representatives District 22 * Alcee L. Hastings (D) and Jay Bonner (R) U.S. House of Representatives District 20 * Maria Sachs (D) and Ellyn Bogdanoff (Rep) Florida State Senator District 34 * David Ryan Silvers (Dem) and Bill Hager (R) Florida State House of Representatives District 89 For more information on the call (561) 306 5868; Email: forum2014@aol.com.

Forum Skanska/Broward Health Local, Small and Diverse Vendor Breakfast Forum, Monday, Oct. 20. 2014, from 8 to 10 a.m., at Broward Health North Conference Center, 201 E. Sample Rd., Deerfield Beach, Fla. (Off I-95 & Sample). To register and for more info www.skanskabrowardhealth.eventbrite.com or call (588) 639-6424

Event Student Video Challenge Launches, as part of their continuing effort to teach students about fair and impartial courts, the Florida Coordinating Committee of the Informed Voters Project of the National Association of Women Judges is pleased to invite all Florida residents, especially high school, college and law students, to participate in its “2014 Florida Video Challenge.” Submission will be accepted through October 17, 2014. Visit www.facebook.com/ informedvotersprogect.

Meeting

Dear Members Notice of September, October Meetings and November, please note the following General Membership meetings of the NAACP Fort Lauderdale/ Broward Branch, for the purpose of election of officers and at-large members of the executive committee.

2. On Oct. 23, 2014, at the Mizell Cultural Center at7 p.m., there will be a reporting of the Nominating Committee, receipt of Nominations by Petition, and Election of the Supervisory Committee All members whose memberships are current as of April 1st may be nominated for office or as an at-large member of the Executive Committee. In order to sign a nominating petition, or be elected to the Election Supervisory Committee, a member must be current as of 30 days prior to the October meeting.

3. On Nov. 13, 2014 at the Mizell Cultural Center at7 p.m., the election of officers and atlarge members of the Executive Committee will take place Polls will open from 5 to 8 p.m. In order to vote in a Branch election, one must be a member in good standing of the Branch 30 days prior to the election. A form of identification is required.

Should a run-off election be necessary then election shall occur on the following date at time certain (at least 1 hour) at this location, Run-off elections shall be conducted not less than ten days after the original election.

Brunch

The LampLighter’s Aglow Inc., North Dade Chapter cordially invites the community annual Prayer Brunch, Honoring Mrs. Patricia Carter, Saturday, Oct. 25, 2014 at 9 a.m., J.C. Sams Multi-Purpose Room, Florida Memorial University 15800 N.W. 42 Ave., Miami Gardens, Fla. Speaker Dr. Rev. Carl Johnson. There is a donation fee.

ATTENTION RADIO LISTENERS We have free gifts for everybody who calls into the show and shares their opinion. Listen every Saturday at 4 p.m. to Spiritual Downloads with Anna Stephenson on WWNN Radio AM 1470. It’s a live Call in talk show that discusses everything from Spiritual Matters to what matters to you.

The show can also be heard on the Internet at wwnnradio.com; just click on the listen live button. Your voice is the most important part of the show. So call in and let us hear what you have to say. The toll free call in number is 1-888-565-1470. Also e-mail Anna Stephenson at annasmiami@aol.com with a subject you want to hear discussed on the show. The show also interviews special guests Like Jessica Reedy from Sunday Best. Shelia Raye Charles, Melba Moore and different preachers and gospel musical artists and politicians.

Broward County's Oldest and Largest African American Owned and Operated Newspaper

Page 6 • www.thewestsidegazette.com • October 9 - October 15, 2014

Opinion

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.

What Blacks and Floridians don’t know about Florida under Scott

By Roger Caldwell Leadership matters in Florida, and Rick Scott and his administration for four years has not been honest with the residents of the state. The governor has tricked the residents into thinking that he cares about the quality of life in the state, but he is only concerned about creating more investments and wealth for his network of companies. From the very beginning he was only interested in the top 1 percent in the state, and with his money, he can buy off the support he needs to win an election.

Florida is controlled by the Republican Party in both Houses, but there are more Democrats registered to vote in the state. If Governor Rick Scott and The Republican Party cared about the people in the state, they would

have approved the expansion of Medicaid, because it can help over 1 million residents.

“The Legislature’s politically driven refusal to accept federal money to expand Medicaid leaves $50 billion on the table and puts thousands of lives at risk. It’s an object failure of responsibility by Florida lawmakers for which there is no justification,” says the Miami Herald. Our leaders are morally bankrupt, and they operate in the past and refuse to look ahead to the future.

Our governor continues to tell the residents that his initiatives and plans are working, but we find time and time again that our state is at the top of bad lists. Florida is ranked first in fraud, first in identity theft, first in home foreclosures, and first in public corruption convictions. It is obvious that to be first on a bad list is an em-

Jordan Davis’ killer to be jailed for life

By Benjamin F. Chavis, Jr. NNPA Columnist Justice for 17-year-old Jordan Davis, who was murdered by Michael Dunn in Jacksonville, Fla. on Nov. 23, 2012 in a dispute over loud music has not come without a struggle. A jury in the Duval County Court recently found Michael Dunn guilty of firstdegree murder in the tragic, fatal shooting of Davis.

Westside Gazette Florida Association of Black Owned Media (FABOM) Bobby R. Henry, Sr. - PUBLISHER Pamela D. Henry - SENIOR EDITOR Sonia M. Henry Robinson COMPTROLLER Elizabeth D. Henry CIRCULATION MANAGER Carma L. Henry - DATA ENTRY Charles Moseley MARKETING DIRECTOR Tarrence Crawford & Ron Lyons PHOTOGRAPHER Levi Henry Jr. - CHAIRMAN Yvonne F. Henry EDITOR (Emeritus)

Broward County's Oldest and Largest African American Owned and Operated Newspaper

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Of course, millions of people welcomed the news of Dunn’s conviction in what was a retrial on the first-degree murder charge. Yet, we join with Lucia McBath CHAVIS and Ron Davis, the parents of Jordan Davis, in the call for continue vigilance and activism to ensure the living memory of Jordan Davis. Advancing the ongoing movement for freedom, justice and equality for Black Americans and all people is a necessary step to solidify the legacy of Jordan Davis and all those who have been unjustly killed by the soiled brutal hands of racial injustice.

Dunn, 47, now faces a life sentence in prison without possibility of parole.

But an enduring justice in this case means more than the perpetrator being sent to prison for life. Racial profiling and racially-motivated violence are on a steady rise across America. We need to continue to demand an end to so-called “Stand Your Ground” permissive gun use laws as well as and end to all forms of racial profiling.

Jordan’s mother, Lucia McBath, stated, “We’re very grateful that justice has been served, not only for Jordan, but justice for Trayvon and justice for all the nameless faces and children and people who will never have a voice.”

(Read full story on www.thewestsidegazette.com)

Countering voter suppression moves

By Julianne Malveaux NNPA Columnist The Supreme Court recently blocked an appeals court ruling that would have restored seven days of voting in MALVEAUX Ohio. In just three sentences, the court reduced voting access for tens of thousands of Ohioans, in yet another effort to suppress the vote. In North Carolina, the appeals court granted an injunction to restore same day registration and out of precinct voting. It didn’t strike down early voting restrictions because of time constraints, but did acknowledge that reducing early voting is a way to suppress the vote. If the North Carolina case goes before the Supreme Court, the Supreme Court is likely to lift the injunction against North Carolina, again making voting more difficult.

When the Voting Rights Act was attacked, too many tuned out and turned off from the details, though leaders such as Barbara Arnwine of the Lawyers’ Committee for Civil Rights Under Law warned that we would begin to feel the effects of this legal setback with various forms of voter suppression. The Lawyers’ Committee developed a “map of shame” to show the many states that had curtailed ballot access.

(Read full story on www.thewestsidegazette.com)

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.

barrassment, and we have to question if our legislators are doing their job, and if the governor cares.

Florida is the second worst in the country on per-capital spending on higher education, access to emergency care, and the most regressive taxation system. We are also the third worst in per-capital spending on public education, the widest income disparity between the top 1 percent and the bottom 99 percent, the most long-term jobless, and among the three worst states for future retirement security.

Our state is also eighth in violent crime rates, and the 42nd in per-capital spending on public welfare programs.

Most of this information comes from a research paper from the Florida Alliance for Retired Americans, and they are now not recommending retirees to come to Florida to retire. In 2011, the

Scott administration cut money for spring protection, and gutted the state’s water management districts. All around the state, there are toxic dumping grounds in minority communities, which are making the CALDWELL residents sick. There is excessive runoff from urban areas, septic tanks, landfills, and agriculture areas, which can cause vomiting, rashes, lung and liver diseases.

It is time for Governor Scott to tell the truth about the environment, and end this appalling cover-up in the state. When Florida is ranked first in public corruption convictions, the wrong group of leaders is running the state. We must remember the ones who are caught and convicted are a small percentage, because the system is broken and rotten to the core.

Hastings hails Supreme Court decision denying appeal of marriage equality cases

By Congressman Alcee L. Hastings FORT LAUDERDLAE, FL — Today, Congressman Alcee L. Hastings made the following statement on the U.S. Supreme Court decision to deny review of rulings in support of marriage equality for states within the Fourth, Seventh, and Tenth Circuit Courts:”With today’s decision, the U.S. Supreme Court has effectively upheld the ruling by circuit courts all across the country that banning same-sex marriage is unconstitutional. As a result, gay and lesbian Americans in Indiana, Oklahoma, Utah, Virginia, and Wisconsin will soon be able to legally marry.

The decision will also likely apply to same-sex couples in Colorado, Kansas, North Carolina, South Carolina, West Virginia, and Wyoming, which would increase the number of marriage equality states to 30, plus the District of Columbia. “Never before in our nation’s history have LGBT indi-

viduals experienced this level of recognition and protection under the law, and we should take great pride in that. It is because of the tireless efforts, personal sacrifices, and loving spirit of countless individuals past and present that we have come this far, and together we will advance the cause of equality even further.

Now is the time for Congress to take action and pass the Respect for Marriage Act and Employment NonDiscrimination Act (ENDA). Regardless of the state that they live in, LGBT Americans and their families deserve just and fair treatment under the law.”Congressman Alcee L. Hastings is Vice Chairman of the House Permanent Select Committee on Intelligence, a senior member of the House Rules Committee, and CoChairman of the U.S. Helsinki Commission.

The politics of morality has no political equal

By Derek Joy Sure thing. . .

The political realm of life has its quirks on the campaign trail.

Think about it?

Republican Governor Rick Scott and JOY Democratic challenger Charlie Crist, the former Republican Governor, turned Independent, turned Democrat.

Scott’s campaign advertisements are having a ball with that, repeatedly slamming Crist, who holds a slight edge in the polls. Crist counters with how many times Scott invoked his 5th Amendment rights (75) while his ACA Health Care Group was being investigated for medicare fraud.

Turns out that ACA was fined more than $1-billion for its transgressions.

Scott walked away with a golden parachute with an estimated payoff of $200million. It ends with “Scott is too shady for the Sunshine State.”

But that isn’t all.

Scott invaded Crist’s stronghold last weekend. Hit him where it hurts.

That’s right. Scott had the unmitigated gall to visit Bethel Community Full Gospel Baptist Church in St. Petersburg.

He was well received by the Rev. Dr. Emmanuel Sykes and his congregation. He went to church with people of color in Crist’s home town.

Some nerve. Actions that all but said he’s out to win by any means necessary.

“I was shocked,” said Ted Pinckney, an usher at Bethel Community, explaining his reaction when Scott and his security force arrived at the church.

“He didn’t make any political speeches. Just the generic. And he thanked the church for having him, complimented the choir for their singing and complemented the pastor for the sermon.”

There is, of course, a flip side to that all. Remember Jennifer Carroll, the ousted Lt. Governor? Well, she got Scott his first entrée to a Black American church when she ran as his Lt. Gov. in 2010.

As time went by Carroll was implicated as being affiliated with a suspect veterans charity organization.

Carroll was never charged or indicted.

No matter. Scott unceremoniously dumped her.

It took him 10 months to find a replacement. Scott was rebuffed by several potential replacements, which some perceived to be nothing more than delay tactics. He finally settled on then Miami Dade County Tax Assessor Jorge Lopez Cantera, a former Florida State Legislator.

Now the battle is on. Crist is certain to unfold some of his slickerisms aimed at Scott. But going to church among people of color has never been a problem for Crist.

What needs to be looked at along with the pressing political issues is a balance of how politicians exploit the church community for their selfish political gain.

Attorney General Eric H. Holder, Jr. hasn’t left the Robert F. Kennedy Department of Justice Building yet, but civil rights activists are worried about whether a strong advocate in Holder’s mold will succeed him.

Holder recently submitted his resignation after nearly six years on the job, making him the fourth-longest serving U.S. Attorney General in history.

The news of Holder’s resignation was so significant that civil rights leaders Al Sharpton of the National Action Network, National Urban League CEO Marc H. Morial, NAACP President Cornell William Brooks and others, upon reading about Holder’s impending departure on an iPad that was being circulated, interrupted a press conference with the parents of slain Ferguson, Mo. youth Michael Brown and

Corralling the crack vote

By Lucius Gantt Conservatives hire political consultants that can generate votes from their “base” of Tea Party members, military personnel, small GANTT business owners, corporate big wigs and others.

The “truck vote” is a Republican vote today and everyday because the GOP knows how to influence and turn out their voter base.

In past years, the Republican Party has hired anybody and everybody that could help Republican Party candidates win.

In the late 1980s and early 1990s it was not unusual to see whites, Blacks, Democrats, independents and people with no party affiliations all working together to get Republicans elected in predominately Democratic states like Florida.

When Dale Padgett and Jim Rathbun coordinated Republican legislative campaigns in the Sunshine State years ago they hired a Black political consultant to handle all of their statewide media production and placement.

Yes, it was a Black political consultant that wrote Republican ads calling for the death penalty, lower taxes and other conservative-type issues.

(Read full story on www.thewestsidegazette.com)

The Ebola case in Dallas

By Lee A. Daniels NNPA Columnist Amid heightened concern in the U.S. about the ferocious Ebola disease, two prominent Republican officeholders last week seized upon DANIELS the proper concern over a Liberian national in Dallas testing positive for the virulent disease as a chance to show they think the GOP’s political cesspool has no bottom.

Both Senator Rand Paul of Kentucky and Rep. Louie Gohmert of Texas, asserted that the President’s sending 3,000 troops to West Africa to aid those nations’ efforts to contain the spread of the virus there, was endangering America itself by exposing these troops to the virus, which they, in turn, would spread to other Americans once they got back to the states.

Paul voiced his concern “about 3,000 soldiers getting back on a ship. Where is the disease most transmittable?

When you’re in the close confines on a ship – we all know about cruises and how they get these diarrhea viruses that are transmitted very easily. Can you imagine if a whole ship of our soldiers catch Ebola? I think because of political correctness, we’re not really making sound, rational, scientific decisions on this,” Paul told conservative talk show host Laura Ingraham.

(Read full story on www.thewestsidegazette.com)

Our own worst enemy

By Raynard Jackson NNPA Columnist

the mother of New York chokehold victim Eric Gardner, to praise Holder.

Sharpton said, “The CURRY civil rights community has lost, in effect, the most effective civil rights attorney general in the history of this country.”

In a statement issued later, former NAACP Board Chair Myrlie EversWilliams, widow of slain civil rights leader Medgar Evers, said: “There has been no greater ally in the fight for justice, civil rights, equal rights, and voting rights than Attorney General Holder.”

Several high-profile decisions will greet Holder’s successor, including whether to file federal civil rights suits in the cases of:

Black Democrats are the most despised people on the face of this earth and they have worked hard to deserve this designation.

They vote upwards of 90 percent for Democratic candidates for President and get very little in exchange for their loyalty. They constantly deliver victory to Democrats, only to see the spoils of victory go to JACKSON other groups: homosexuals, illegals, and white women.

Jimmy Carter had very few Blacks in his administration. Bill Clinton had more, but threw Lani Guinier, one of his closest personal friends and a top campaign supporter, under the bus because of threats by Republicans not to confirm her as Assistant Attorney General. President Obama has even refused to interview a Black female jurist for consideration to the U.S. Supreme Court.

So, I was thoroughly stunned by the comments of the Democratic chairman of the Congressional Black Caucus (CBC), Marcia Fudge (D-Ohio) during their annual conference two weeks ago here in DC. Here is a direct quote from her: “I hope you will spend this much time with your local elected officials. I guarantee you most people in this room have not done that. With your school board, with your city council, and so then you won’t be calling me talking about somebody didn’t come and pick up your trash. You need to call your city council person for that.

(Read full story on www.thewestsidegazette.com)

(Read full story on www.thewestsidegazette.com)

The Justice Department after Holder

By George E. Curry NNPA Columnist

The Gantt Report

Broward County's Oldest and Largest African American Owned and Operated Newspaper

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

Church Directory

October 9 - October 15, 2014 • www.thewestsidegazette.com • Page 7

St. Ruth Missionary Baptist Church 145 NW 5th Avenue Dania Beach, FL 33004 Office: (954) 922-2529

Bishop Victor T. Curry Senior Pastor/Teacher

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"

First Baptist Church Piney Grove, Inc. 4699 West Oakland Park Blvd.

Lauderdale Lakes, FL 33313 Office: (954) 735-1500 Fax: (954) 735-1939 fbcpg@bellsouth.net

Rev. Dr. Derrick J. Hughes, Pastor SUNDAY SERVICES Worship Services .......................................................... 7:30 & 10:45 a.m.

Children's Church ........................................................ 7:30 & 10:45 a.m.

Communion (First Sunday) ......................................... 7:30 & 10:45 a.m.

New Members' Class .................................................................... 9:30 a.m.

Church School .............................................................................. 9:30 a.m.

Baptist Training Union (BTU) .................................................... 1:00 p.m.

Wednesday (Bible Study) ...................................... 11:15 a.m.. & 7:00 p.m.

Harris Chapel United Methodist Church Rev. Juana Jordan, M.Div E-MAIL:juana.jordan@flumc.org 2351 N.W. 26th Street Oakland Park, Florida 33311 Church Telephone: (954) 731-0520 Church Fax: (954) 731-6290

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.

Mount Calvary Baptist Church

800 N.W. 8th Avenue Pompano Beach, Florida 33060 Church Telephone: (954) 943-2422 Church Fax: (954) 943-2186 E-mail Address: Mtcalvarypompano@bellsouth.net

Reverend Anthony Burrell, Pastor SCHEDULE OF SERVICES 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"

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

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!

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

Rev. Dr. James B. Darling, Senior Pastor WORSHIP SERVICES Sunday Worship Service .............................................................................. 8:00 & 11:00 a.m.

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

Communion Service (1st Sunday) ......................................................................... 11:00 a.m.

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

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

Saturday (2nd & 4th) Growth & Orientation ........................................................... 9 a.m.

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

A FAMIL Y THA T AMILY THAT PRA YS TOGETHER PRAY ST AYS TOGETHER STA

WORSHIP SERVICES Bible Study (Wednesday Night) ...................................................... 6:45 p.m.

Sunday School .............................................................................. 8:45 a.m.

Sunday Morning Service ............................................................. 10:00 a.m.

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.

We STRIVE to PROVIDE Ministries that matter TODAY to Whole Body of Christ, not only the Believers, but also for those stranded on the “Jericho Road”!

“Celebrating over 85 Years of FAITH and FAVOR! Come to the WILL ... We’ll show You the WAY: Jesus the Christ!”

Obituaries James C. Boyd Funeral Home ARRINGTON Funeral services for the late Willie George Arrington, Sr – 67 were held Oct. 4 at James C. Boyd’s Memorial Chapel with Apostle Janice L. Dillard officiating. Interment: Forest Lawn Memorial Gardens (Central).

DEVEAU Funeral services for the late Linsley Taylor DeVeau – 64 were held Sept.

30 at James C. Boyd Funeral Home.

MCCRAY Funeral services for the late Deaconess Dotha Mae McCray – 95 were held Oct. 4 at New Hope Baptist Church with Pastor Ricky Scott officiating. Interment: Sunset Memorial Gardens.

REED Funeral services for the late Richard Todd Reed – 49.

McWhite's Funeral Home BEASLEY Funeral services for the late Freddie Rufus Beasley, Sr. – 76 were held Oct. 4 at New Birth House of Prayer For All People with Kwaune Keno Felton officiating. Interment: Sunset Memorial Gardens.

DANIEL Funeral services for the late Timothy Jerome Daniels, Jr. – 27 were held Oct. 4 at McWhite’s Funeral Home Chapel with Woodrow Daniels officiating.

JOHNSON Funeral services for the late Sister Albertha Johnson 85 were held Oct. 4 at New Mount Olive Baptist Church with Dr. Marcus D. Davidson officiating. Interment: Sunset Memorial Gardens.

JONES Funeral services for the late Inez Wells Johes – 70 were held at Faith Life Deliverance Ministries with Pastor Samuel L. Mobley officiating. Interment: Sunset Memorial Gardens.

LATIMER Funeral services for the late M i l d r e d Brown Latimer - 71 were held Oct. 3 at Mount Hermon A.M.E. Church.

LUBIN Funeral services for the late Patricia Ann Corker Lubin – 60 were held Oct. 4 at McWhite’s Funeral Home Chapel with Dr. John Mohorn officiating.

TAYLOR Funeral services for the late Arnold Eugene Taylor 99 were held Oct. 4 at Gateway Church with Rev. Eithel officiating. Interment: Lauderdale Memorial Gardens..

WRAY Funeral services for the late Baby Malakai King Wray – 4months-old were held Oct. 4 at McWhite’s Funeral Home Chapel. Interment: Sunset Memorial Gardens.

Roy Mizell & Kurtz Funeral Home PRATT Funeral services for the late Rubin Eugene Pratt – 67 were held Oct. 4 at Roy Mizell & Kurtz Worship Center with Elder Stephon Rhett officiating. Interment: Lauderdale Memorial Park.

SINGLETON Funeral services for the late Annie Ruth Singleton – 78 were held Oct. 4 at First Baptist Church Piney Grove with Rev. Dr. Derrick J. Hughes officiating. Interment: Sunset Memorial Gardens.

St. Mary’s College President honored as scientist, leader in education ST. MARY'S CITY, MD -The National Coalition of 100 Black Women, Baltimore Metropolitan Chapter, has presented Tuajuanda C. Jordan, president of St. Mary’s College of Maryland, with its Torchbearer Award. Jordan was honored during the coalition’s 25th annual Torchbearer Awards Breakfast held Sept. 27 at Morgan State University in Baltimore, Md. Each year the coalition honors women who have distinguished themselves in the areas of health, education, economic development, cultural arts, or social and political action. This year’s honorees, recommended by the coalition’s membership, are women in education with an emphasis on science, technology, engineering and mathematics (S.T.E.M.).

“We want to recognize your efforts and the seriousness with which you pursued your vision,” said Mary Demory, awards chair, in a letter announcing Jordan as an honoree. “You are indeed a ‘Torchbearer’ and a distinguished advocate.”

This year’s Torchbearer Award honorees also included Shirley Malcolm, head of the education and human resources programs at the American Association for Advancement of Science; Stephanie Cole-Hill, executive at Lockheed Martin; and Dr. Charlene Dukes, firs female president of Prince George’s Community College.

“I was humbled to be named an honoree, especially in light of the very distinguished women who were also honored,” said Jordan. “Shirley Malcom and I have been colleagues for many years, and I have always considered her a role model. Stephanie Hill should be recognized as a national, if not international, hero for the work she did in 2009 to neutralize a satellite hurling towards earth. And, the work Charlene Dukes has done at Prince George’s Community College, and will do as chairelect of the American Association of Community Colleges, has far-reaching educational impact as we prepare the next generation of scientists who will represent the changing demographics of this country.”

Jordan took office as St. Mary’s College’s seventh president on July 1, 2014. Prior to St. Mary’s College, Jordan served as dean of the College of Arts and Sciences and professor of chemistry at Lewis & Clark College in Portland, Ore., beginning 2011. From 2005 to 2011, Jordan was the director of the Science Education Alliance (SEA) of the Howard Hughes Medical Institute in Chevy Chase, Md. As director, Jordan led a collaborative effort designed to have scientists and educators work together

Jordan is St. Mary’s College of Maryland’s first African American president.

She is a Maryland native and science-focused liberal arts champion. Jordan’s inauguration ceremony will take place on Saturday, Oct. 18, on the college campus. to enhance science literacy while preparing the next generation of scientists. She also headlined the National Genomics Research Initiative in 2008, a program that exposes first-year college students to hands-on genomics research.

Jordan’s honors include being named a Purdue University Distinguished Alumni from the School of Agriculture in 2008, and, in 2009, being named a “revolutionary mind” by Seed magazine.

The National Coalition of 100 Black Women is an advocacy organization founded in 1981 with a focus on furthering equity and empowerment for women of color. The organization has approximately 5,700 members in chapters in 24 states.

St. Mary’s College of Maryland, designated the Maryland state honors college in 1992, is ranked one of the best public liberal arts schools in the nation by U.S. News & World Report. More than 1,800 students attend the college, nestled on the St. Mary’s River in Southern Maryland.

Broward County's Oldest and Largest African American Owned and Operated Newspaper

Page 8 • www.thewestsidegazette.com • October 9 - October 15, 2014

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Prior to the inception of Harvey, Covington and Thomas of South Florida, LLC, Roderick worked for one of the “Big 4” firms, specializing in the Governmental, Manufacturing, Retail, and Distribution sectors.

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The giving season is upon us.

For many nonprofits, hospitals, schools, and colleges the next three months are all about fundraising. You will no doubt see an increase in direct mail and e-mail solicitations, Facebook campaigns, billboards, print and TV commercials and personal asks made by of you by friends, family members and associates. Some of us have the ability to be most generous. For most, giving is more constrained, focused on a few organizations we believe in. Here’s something to think about: extend your gift by giving more than money.

Consider these five ideas: 1. Serve as an advocate.

Volunteer to write an editorial or a letter to your elected representative. Speak at a public event. Advocate through social media. Talk to people you know.

2. Become a fundraising solicitor. For those organizations you donate to, consider volunteering to host a fundraising event; solicit friends, family and associates; or accompany a staff person or board

member when he or she visits with donors and funders.

3. Recruit and/or train volunteers. Learn what types of volunteers are needed and then work with staff – or on your own – to recruit and train people who can make a difference.

4. Donate products, services and property. So many organizations depend on product donations. These include food banks, medical clinics, and schools to name a few. Find out what types of products are needed and offer to donate and encourage others to join you in doing so. This is an ideal way for businesses to give back. You can donate your airline miles, or your professional expertise.

Consider writing a grant, reviewing an organization’s finances, human resource policies or legal documents. You can donate property, lease an office for no charge or below market rent. You can design a social media campaign or redesign a website. You can donate event planning services, printing or postage. Consider serving on a committee, or being a mentor.

Mel and Pearl Shaw position nonprofits, colleges and universities for fundraising success.

For help with your campaign visit www.saadandshaw.com or call (901) 522-8727.

(Read full story on www.thewestsidegazette.com)

Broward County's Oldest and Largest African American Owned and Operated Newspaper

UNIVERSAL PICTURES MUSIC AND LEGENDARY PICTURES PRESENT A MICHAEL DE LUCA PRODUCTION “DRACULA UNTOLD” LUKE EVANS DOMINIC COOPER SARAH GADON EXECUTIVE PRODUCED ALISSA PHILLIPS JOE CARACCIOLO, JR. THOMAS TULL JON JASHNI AND CHARLES DANCE BY RAMIN DJAWADI PRODUCERS

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Blacks expect more from the Hip Hop artists

Hip Hop Corner

Ebola won’t block my return to the motherland

By Jineea Butler NNPA Columnist Is it me or does it seem like the powers that be are trying to have a Ebola virus scare in the United States? With all our technology, body scans at the airport, top-flight doctors etc. how did someone get in the country by lying on his questionnaire and then accidentally released from the hospital while still carrying this deadly virus?

The CDC is monitoring 100 people in Dallas who may have come in contact with the Liberian national Thomas Eric Duncan. I thought I lived in the greatest country in the world.

How could this happen? I hate to think that anyone would want to spread this virus, but living in America, I’ve learned to scratch the surface to see what is really underneath.

I’ve allowed myself to believe the age-old myth that doing business with Africa was not possible because the African leaders were constantly at war with one another and had no desire to do business with African Americans. But for the past few years, I have been seeing an effort from the African presidents and officials to visit America more frequently. Dripped in their infamous 18 karat yellow gold and fancy garbs with their entourages talking import and export business with African American leaders such as Jesse Jackson.

I haven’t quite been able to figure out how I can begin doing business with Africa, but I am definitely intrigued by the opportunity. It’s got me think-

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.

ing about visiting and figuring out what type of exchange the Hip Hop Union will be able to do with the continent. And just as I begin to think about possibilities in doing business with Africa and finally going to my home, the Ebola virus dominates the news.

What does the Ebola outbreak do to us mentally? It makes us naturally fear what can hurt us. The objective becomes not to come in contact with anyone who may have this virus. That should be easy the virus has only been found in Africa. What we must remember is there are many Africans that have populated and are beginning to do big business within the United States.

In New York, there are approximately 73,000 Africans, many of whom travel back and forth to West Africa. In Washington, there are at least 80,000 Africans and as of 2007 there are about 20,000 Africans in Dallas. Until this Ebola virus is contained, we will all live in fear and do everything possible not to come in contact with someone who is infected. But who is most likely to be infected?

Right.

Dr. David Nabaro, tells RT News Ebola poses a worse threat to humanity than HIV or SARS. “I can remember in Africa early on in HIV thinking, ‘This is an unspeakably awful situation, but it will not decimate the population’…though we still lost millions. I watch this and I think it is much nastier than HIV. I remember working on SARS and being scared, but this is much worse than SARS. It is just spreading faster and faster and faster,” he told the paper.

So now my African brother goes under scrutiny because he has come into America and cracked the code to the American Dream. They are driving cabs, they own nice restaurants, they do the tours in Times Square, they are building their own little Africas throughout the country. An outbreak in America will ruin trade relations and direct business.

At the Congressional Black Caucus Foundation’s 44th Annual Legislative Conference, Rep. Shelia Jackson Lee (DTex.) hosted a session on “How

Oct. 2, 9, 16, 23, 30 2014

NOTICE TO CONTRACTORS Florida Department of Transportation Project Bids will be received by the Tallahassee Office until 10:30 A.M. on Wednesday, October 29, 2014, for Proposal ID T6377 The improvements under this contract consist of milling and resurfacing of SR 90 (US 41) (Tamiami Trail) in Miami-Dade County. This is a Business Development Initiative (BDI) project, and a Certification of Qualification is not required for this project. Budget Estimate $692,160.00. Complete letting advertisement information for this project is available on our website at http://www.dot.state.fl.us/cca d m i n / L e t t i n g s / Letting_Project_Info.shtm or by calling (850) 414-4000.

Oct. 2, 9, 2014

NOTICE TO CONTRACTORS Florida Department of Transportation Project Bids will be received by the Tallahassee Office until 10:30 A.M. on Wednesday, October 29, 2014, for Proposal ID T6333.

The improvements under this contract consist of intersection improvement on SR 969 in Miami-Dade County. This is a Business Development Initiative (BDI) project, and a Certification of Qualification is not required for this project. Budget Estimate $199,336.00. Complete letting advertisement information for this project is available on our website at http://www.dot.state.fl.us/cca d m i n / L e t t i n g s / Letting_Project_Info.shtm or by calling (850) 414-4000.

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Broward County's Oldest and Largest African American Owned and Operated Newspaper

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America and Africa can Create a Virtual Pipeline for Job Creation.”

This is what we want right?

The governor of Akwa Ibom State, BUTLER Nigeria Chief Godwill Akpabio presented a 17 x 22, 43-page full color magazine detailing all the opportunities in his country that have opened in the last seven years.

Jesse Jackson pointed out the planes that fly the same distance from America to Europe are doubled the price when traveling America to Africa.

Why these hurdles in the way of me going home? Why not just provide the aid and wipe out the Ebola virus like we are doing ISIS? It’s because Africa is the land that is filled with milk and honey. It’s time to reconnect. We finally can use what we are learned to advance the infrastructure in our homeland. One of Cheif Godwill’s entourage said, “It is time to come home.” “I agree.”

By Freddie Allen NNPA Washington Correspondent WASHINGTON (NNPA) – In the wake of the shooting death of Michael Brown, an unarmed Black teenager in Ferguson, Mo., members of the Black community and independent artists continue to call on mainstream rappers and entertainers to use their visibility to speak out against police brutality affecting young, Black males.

Nearly two months after Ferguson police officers left Brown’s lifeless body in the middle of the street for more than four hours, Ferguson residents continue to call for the arrest of Darren Wilson, the white police officer who shot Brown too death, following a brief altercation, where many eye witnesses said that Brown had his hands up, surrendering, as Wilson continued to fire on the teenager. In recent weeks, two Ferguson police officers have been shot at, one wounded, in separate incidents that law enforcement officials said were unrelated to

the ongoing protests over Brown’s death.

Jasiri X, an internationallyknown rapper, six-time Pittsburgh Hip-Hop Award winner, and community activist, said that the Black community should not only expect mainstream artists to get involved, but that Blacks should also put pressure on them to get involved.

“Most of these artists are young, Black men and they have probably experienced the same racism and police brutality themselves. So when we see something happen to somebody

that is basically their peer, we should expect them to say something and get involved,” said Jasiri X. Even though the primary consumers of mainstream rap music are white males, Jasiri X said that artists still have to maintain ties to the Black community to stay relevant.

Jasiri X continued: “It’s young brothers like Michael Brown, like Trayvon Martin, like Jordan Davis that make them hot. You gotta come to the ‘hood for swag.”

(Read full story on www.thewestsidegazette.com)

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Broward County's Oldest and Largest African American Owned and Operated Newspaper

FMU honors local jazz legend at jazz concert

FMU President Roslyn Clark Artis and Jazz legend Melton Mustafa.

“This is a very auspicious

By Derek Joy occasion,” said Raven. “We’re There was a musical cres- installing the 15th President in cendo that punctuated a bit of the 135th year history of Florida history amid a dynamic week of Memorial University.”

The jazz concert was the cresactivities. cendo in a weeklong series of The occasion was the Florida Memorial University(FMU) events that FMU Board of TrusPresident’s Inaugural Jazz tees Member Marc T. HenConcert that featured jazz re- derson cited in his introductory speech. cording artist Yolanda Rabun.

“Since yesterday we’ve had As the FMU Jazz Ensemble a very smooth experience,” Henentertained the gathering au- derson said. “It started with the dience, former LOVE 94 FM Special Olympics. I’m glad Radio Station Personality Billy because the students had been Raven prepared to kick off the asking for it for a long time. So evening’s entertaining pro- it’s here.

“There was the breast cancer gram.

walk today, the luncheon and more. That brings us to this evening. We’re installing the 15th President and the first female President in the 135 year history of Florida Memorial University, Dr. Roslyn Clark Artis.”

Clark Artis has cast a dynamic aurora of progressive energy since coming to FMU more than a year ago as Interim President. She has succeeded in building a cooperative attitude among staff, students, corporate sponsors and the community.

“Welcome to our home,” Clark Artis engagingly said.

“Florida Memorial has a long and distinguished music tradition. FMU is the home of the Negro National Anthem, “Lift Every Voice”. Our jazz tradition is historic, a body of work. And for that we’re honoring one of our own- Local jazz legend Melton Mustafa.”

Mustafa, a Miami native who graduated from Miami Northwestern High School in 1965, learned to play trumpet under Jonathan “Turk” Thurston at Dorsey Junior High School in Liberty City.

He flourished in high school under the tutelage of legendary high school Band Director David “Globe” Paschal. His musical career spanned the globe, including performances with some of the jazz greats.

Elijah Manley has begun his path (Cont'd from FP)

Jazz Singer Yolanda Rabun.

During Super Bowl XLI in Miami, Mustafa performed on an outreach program at the Dade County Auditorium, where entered down the aisle under dim lights, playing the landmark tune, Mack the Knife that was made famous by jazz legend Louis “Satchmo” Armstrong.

“I came to FMU in 1996. I’m glad I did. I hope I’m here another 100 years. This is the first time I’ve been introduced on a big stage and didn’t have to play trumpet,” said Mustafa, who received a $2,500 check from Clark Artis.

“The entire series of events has been great, especially the breast cancer walk. I’ll always support breast cancer because I’ve been dealing with prostate cancer.”

Thus the stage was set for Rabun, who recently released a Jazz CD, to wow the audience with her sultry rendition of popular tunes and some of her own. Rabun, a North Carolina native, opened with "All I Do Is Think About You".

“People ask me why I wave my arms like I do. They want to know if I’m being dramatic,” said Rabun. “I do it to give back a tribute to those women of jazz,” while noting the likes of Nina Simone and others.

And the show went on, much to the pleasure of a thrilled audience, among them Miami Gardens Mayor Oliver Gilbert, III. “It’s going well. President Artis has a wonderful, dynamic presence and exhibits extraordinary effort,” said Gilbert.

“The university is lucky to have her and she will help it expand its mission of delivering education to underrepresented populations.”

“From the first day I met Elijah, I knew he was a young man serious about his future and having a positive impact on society. The 100 Black Men of Greater Fort Lauderdale is excited about the opportunity to share in the lives of young men like Elijah. It’s all of our responsibility to nurture the ideas and possibilities of our youth and the 100 embraces that responsibility,” said Dennis Wright, President of the 100 Black Men of Greater Fort Lauderdale.

The soft spoken young man takes his time when called upon to voice his opinion. His responses tend to be thought provoking and analytical in nature.

"Time is the best thing you can give someone, because you are giving a portion of your life that you cannot get back.”

“I say thank you to all of the mentors of the 100 Black Men of Greater Fort Lauderdale for helping me discover who am I, for empowering me, and being an arsenal of fatherly figures.

They’ve really helped a lot of children become better and graduate high school. They are real leaders, added Manley.

During this past summer Manley interned at the Broward County Courthouse and also met several politicians, including gubernatorial candidate Charlie Christ, State Senator Christopher Smith, State Representative Perry Thurston, and Lauderhill Mayor Richard J. Kaplan. He made quite an impression on Representative Thurston.

“I think he is a great young man, said State Representative Thurston.

Manley is already delving in the political arena and plans on running for office in student government this year. He also is the Teen President of a civil rights youth organization he founded known as The Green House.

“I am starting my own organization called ‘The Green House’, which is a civil rights, and a leadership group for youth and teenagers in the United States to better this

Manley is Youth President of the Green House a student civil rights organization. He has plans to pursue a career in politics at the highest level in the land including one day becoming POTUS! nation, save our children from self-destruction, protect children/teen rights, and lead the Youth Government. The Green House is head over a larger body of organizations apart of my own created national body — The U.S Youth Government.

The U.S Youth Government is here to provide service to our youth, including mentorship, leadership, involvement in politics, helping minority males, helping children get through high school and into college, and working with federal lawmakers for children laws.”

It’s not every day that you get to meet a young man like Elijah Manley or as he would like to say the future POTUS, albeit a bit premature; it’s never too early or too late to pursue your dreams in life. Or as R. Kelly once sang, “I believe I can fly. I believe I can touch the sky. If I can see it, then I can be it. If I believe it, I can achieve it.

I believe I can fly. I believe I can touch the sky.”

No one knows what the future will bring, but if I had to bet on one young man being suc-cessful in life, I’d put my money on Elijah Manley. His star is rising and his future is bright.