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VOL. 45 NO. 8
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Mission For Freedom
Hastings and Johnson Lead Effort To Prioritize Family Homelessness
For Young Men Like Justin Wright, Life Is More Than Just A Game
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THURSDA THURSDAYY, MARCH 31 - WEDNESDA WEDNESDAYY, APRIL 66,, 2016
Pentagon orders military families out of Turkey due to ISIS threat
INCIRLIK AIR BASE, Turkey: Readiness is the main mission for airmen stationed at this sprawling air base in southern Turkey. By Barbara Starr and Ryan Browne, CNN WASHINGTON (CNN) — The U.S. military has ordered military family members to evacuate southern Turkey, primarily from Incirlik Air Base, due to security concerns, the Pentagon said Tuesday.
Family members will also be evacuated from facilities in Izmir and Mugla, accord-ing to a Pentagon statement. “The decision to move our families and civilians was made in consultation with the Government of Turkey, our State Department, and our Secretary of Defense,” Gen.
Philip M. Breedlove, commander of U.S. European Command, said in the statement. A U.S. defense official told CNN that the base had been placed under Force Protection Condition Delta for weeks, the highest level of force protection for U.S. military bases. Delta level means that either a ter-
rorist attack has just taken place in the immediate vicinity or “intelligence has been received that terrorist action against a specific location or person is imminent,” according to military guidelines. A U.S. official said the evacuation decision was made because of the ongoing threats concerning possible ISIS attacks. The State Department is also ordering the departure of family members of staff at the U.S. consulate in Adana, except for family members who also work at the diplomatic post. “The safety and security of U.S. citizens living abroad are top priorities, and we take very seriously the responsibility for ensuring the security of members of the entire official American community,” a State Department spokesman said. “In close coordination with the Department of Defense, we will continue to evaluate our security posture in Turkey and worldwide.” In addition, the State Department re-issued its travel warning for Turkey, stating that, “The U.S. Department of State warns U.S. citizens of increased threats from terrorist groups throughout Turkey and to avoid travel to southeastern Turkey.” The State Department has also now restricted official travel by staff in Turkey to “missioncritical” movement only.
Come together or die apart “All flesh shall perish together and man shall turn again unto dust.” Job 34:15 KJV By Bobby R. Henry, Sr “Why can’t we all just get along?” These are the immortal words of Rodney King, a victim of society. I label him a victim of society because of the ills to which he had fallen to and due to the ills that almost beat him to death. Mr. King had become a mirror of the image that reflected to America its pereption of what a Black man is. He was unemployed, uneducated, a criminal, a drug dealer and a user of illegal drugs. But most of all he was a victim of judgment. “JUDGE NOT, that ye be not judged.” Matthew 7:1 KJV (Cont'd on Page 10) ********
Vote for Democracy’s sake By Lee A. Daniels George Curry Media Columnist This year’s presidential election has cast the importance of voting and of American citizens’ right to vote in the sharpest relief - and no more so than this month. One reason is our contemporary drama: Donald Trump’s success in wrecking much of the “old” Republican Party; the popularity among GOP voters of the “platform” of bigotry both Trump and Ted Cruz are running on; the continuing efforts of GOP-controlled state legislatures to block Black and Hispanic voters from voting; and the Republican effort to prevent President Obama’s nominee to the Supreme Court from even being considered by the Senate. (Cont'd on Page 10)
Student journalists get jobs, Black newspapers get reporters Criminal justice reform snagged in campaign politics (Read full story on www.thewestsidegazette.com)
Benjamin Chavis, NNPA’s president and CEO with journalists. By Howard University News Service WASHINGTON – The nation’s Black newspapers will get a new infusion of talent from Howard University and young journalists will get hands-on training from seasoned professionals this summer under a program by the National Newspaper Publishers Association (NNPA) and Chevrolet. The program, entitled “Discover the Unexpected,” was announced last week and will provide eight students from Howard’s journalism program to work at the Atlanta Voice, the Chicago Defender, the Washington Informer and the Michigan Chronicle in Detroit. The students will be paid for the summer and also receive a scholarship. In addition to the students, the newspapers will also
receive temporary use of a new Chevrolet Malibu so the young journalists can get to their assignments. Hip Hop pioneer MC Lyte is helping Chevrolet and NNPA get the word out. NNPA officials said the program could be expanded to other Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs) if it proves successful in its first year. Gracie Lawson-Borders, dean of the Howard University School of Communications, welcomed the opportunity for her students. “This will give them an experience of going out into communities and covering stories and gathering content through print, social media and through photos and video,” LawsonBorders said. “It’s a chance for them to grow and hone their craft, but also hear their stories
Pleading Our Own Cause
and give these stories context.” She also applauded Chevrolet for its support. “This is really a commitment of supporting the community on behalf of General Motors and Chevrolet,” she said. Paul Edwards, U.S. vice president for Chevrolet Marketing, said the students from the program “will highlight and celebrate positive stories of men and women making a tremendous impact in their communities.” “Chevrolet is fully committed to this important initiative,” Edwards said. “We believe our . . . fellows are leaders in the next generation of African American journalists and storytellers, and we are proud to support them in their mission to create meaningful narratives that foster a collective sense of pride.” Benjamin Chavis, NNPA’s president and CEO, said his organization is looking forward to the infusion of young talent and new ideas. “These students get a lot of their news from social media 24 hours a day,” Chavis said. “Videos are posted as events are happening and they go viral, with most of them focusing on the violent aspects of what’s happening in their neighborhoods and to their generation. “Our fellows are going to discover and report those unexpected stories, the ones that say their generation is making a difference, the ones that say we’re greater than what you see on the nightly news or read in the papers.” The students will be selected by a panel of NNPA publishers and editors and Howard University faculty. (Cont'd on Page 10)
WWW.
The U.S. Senate’s two Black members, Tim Scott, a South Carolina Republican (r), and Cory Booker, a New Jersey Democrat, helped carve the bipartisan criminal justice reform bill awaiting action from the body. Photo by Jacquelyn Martin By Dee Hunter, Urban News Service Planned reforms to federal drug and sentencing laws that imprisoned many AfricanAmericans have become locked up by election-year politics. “The cost of incarceration and a growing awareness of the problems with mandatory minimum sentences have created a diverse coalition calling for reforms,” said Kevin
Ring, of Families Against Mandatory Minimums (FAMM). Reform supporters span civil rights advocates, law enforcement organizations, numerous federal judges, conservative groups and even Republican stalwarts, the Koch Brothers. Eighty percent of American voters support ending mandatory minimum sentences for drug offenses, according to a February Pew Charitable Trusts poll.
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President Obama has made this issue a priority. He issued an executive order in January to prohibit solitary confinement of juveniles. He discussed criminal justice reform in his latest State of the Union address, and pardoned 95 federal inmates at Christmas. He also became the first president to visit a federal prison. (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)
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End of near century old naval mystery brings family together By Leanna Commins, Howard University News Service WASHINGTON, FL – Edward Wilson, a mere 19, was one of several African-American crewmembers aboard the USS Conestoga when it mysteriously disappeared at sea after it departed March 25, 1921, from San Francisco for Hawaii.
For nearly a century, what happened to the 56-member crew has been a puzzling footnote in U.S. Navy history. Williams’ relatives, Annika Cropper and Cynthia Thomas, barely knew he existed, much less his fate. Now, the 95-year-old mystery has been solved. The National Oceanic and Atmospheric
Administration (NOAA) announced during a special memorial for its crew in Washington last week (March 23) it has found the shipwreck off the coast of San Francisco. Ironically, the USS Conestoga was one of the first times African Americans were ever allowed on a Navy vessel, a retired general at the event said.
Increasingly Affluent, Educated and Diverse: African-American Consumers – the Untold Story Nielsen recently published its award-winning report, Increasingly Affluent, Educated and Diverse: AfricanAmerican Consumers – the Untold Story which explores the economic evolution of upper-income Black Americans. The influence and growth of this community can be attributed to the surge in Black immigration from the Caribbean, Africa and some European countries. In fact, the number of foreign-born Blacks in the U.S. has quadrupled since 1980, accounting for 3.8 million of the nation’s current population. Even more intriguing is the fact that foreignborn Blacks report substantially higher incomes - about 30 percent higher - than U.S.-born Blacks. Other interesting statistics about this group include: · One-third of Black immigrants from Africa have a college degree, a higher share than among the U.S. population · 74 percent of Black immigrants five years and older are proficient in English, compared with 50 percent of all immigrants · In 2013, 8.7 percent of Blacks were foreign-born Cheryl Pearson-McNeil, senior vice president, U.S. Strategic Community Alliances and Consumer Engagement for Nielsen, notes that in order for companies to tap into the $1.3 trillion buying power of African
PEARSON-MCNEIL Americans, they need to learn about what the Black community, both native-born and immigrant, is looking for in the products they buy and the services they consume. By 2060, one of out of every six U.S. Blacks will be immigrants, and according to Pearson-McNeil, savvy marketers will be taking notice and focusing their marketing and advertising efforts on this dynamic and prosperous community. For an interview with Pearson-McNeil, please contact Irene Ferradaz at (305) 4573033 or Irene@JerryThomasPR.com or contact Jerry Thomas at (312) 2 8 5 - 5 1 6 6 o r jerry@jerrythomaspr.com
Visit www.nielsen.com/ africanamericans to learn more about how Black immigrants are gaining economic wealth and power. Cheryl Pearson-McNeil is senior vice president of U.S. Strategic Community Alliances and Consumer Engagement for Nielsen, the global company that measures what consumers watch and what consumers buy. In this role she oversees the company’s multicultural advertising strategy and works extensively with news media, elected officials, community and corporate leaders to expand the company’s philanthropic engagement and to shed light on the significant purchasing power of multicultural consumers. She is a highly accomplished thought leader and the visionary behind Nielsen’s African-American Consumer Report. This award-winning report led to the company’s historic creation of Nielsen’s Diversity Insights Series. Each report focuses on the rapidly growing Hispanic, AfricanAmerican or Asian consumer base. Known for her engaging and refreshing perspective about why we buy what we buy Cheryl is a much sought after speaker.
Cooper and Thomas were the only African Americans among the crowd of crewmembers’ families sitting in the memorial’s Naval Heritage Center. Cropper, who works in Los Angeles, happened to be in Washington when NOAA reached out to inform her that the ship on which her great uncle disappeared so long ago had been found. She said she knew very little about Wilson, other than the fact he and her grandmother were close. “My grandmother actually named one of her children Edward and called him Eddie,” she said. “I’m sure she always wondered what happened to him.” Like Cropper, Thomas knew very little about her greatuncle. Her grandmother was only around 12-years-old when Wilson left for the Navy, she said. Still, Thomas said she was very happy to find what she called closure because of NOAA’s discovery. “The first thing I told NOAA when they notified me is that they gave me and my family the closure that was needed,” she said. “I just hate that [my grandmother] wasn’t here to hear it herself.” Officials said they did not know the exact reason why the boat sank, but they speculated it could have been a storm. The boat was bound for Tutuila, American Samoa, by way of Hawaii, officials said. The Navy didn’t know it was missing until it failed to arrive in Hawaii. The Navy carried out an expansive air and sea search, but only a battered lifeboat with the letter “C” on its bow was ever found, hundreds of miles off the expected course. While NOAA could not provide much information on the personal lives of the crew-
SHIPWRECK — Bottom photo Edward Wilson, a mere 19, was one of several African-American crew members aboard the USS Conestoga when it mysteriously disappeared at sea after it departed March 25, 1921, from San Francisco for Hawaii. Ironically, the Conestoga was one of the first times African Americans were ever allowed on a Navy vessel. For nearly a century, what happened to the 56-member crew has been a puzzling footnote in U.S. Navy history. Williams’ relatives; top photo: Annika Cropper and Cynthia Thomembers, NOAA Deputy Administrator and Vice Admiral Manson Brown spoke kindly of the crew and their legacy. “To the officers and crew of Conestoga who slumber beneath the ocean waves, your names are now etched in our
mas, barely knew he existed, much less his fate. Now, the 95-year-old mystery has been solved. Photos of Edward Wilson courtesy of his family. hearts,” Brown said. “Your legacy of service and sacrifice are forever recorded in the annals of American history. You will not be forgotten. Rest in peace, shipmates.” (Read full story on www.thewestsidegazette.com)
DR. MARTIN LUTHER KING CELEBRATION COMMITTEE AND THE CITY OF FORT LAUDERDALE PARKS AND RECREATION DEPARTMENT Cordially invites you to our
TOWN HALL MEETING AND VOLUNTEER APPRECIATION RECEPTION TUESDAY, APRIL 5, 2016 | 6 – 8 P.M. Lauderhill Mall | 1267 North State Road 7 | Lauderhill, Florida 33311
Your voice matters. Please join us in an open forum discussion on the Legacy of Dr. King and how we Celebrate this great man. Don’t be left out of the movement. For more information or to RSVP please email: waynealexander@gmail.com or bbrooks@fortlauderdale.gov. You may also call 954-828-5323.
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March 31 - April 6, 2016 • Page 3
Missions for Freedom By Claudia Quintana FORT LAUDERDALE, FL — Applause, cheers and words of thanks filled the air at the Jet Runway Cafe at Fort Lauderdale Executive Airport. On their feet, diners reached out to shake Lt. Col. Leo Gray’s
hand. Voices of respect thanked the 91-year-old Tuskegee Airmen for his World War II service to our country and the world. Clearly enjoying himself immensely, the retired U.S. Air Force pilot has earned every word of praise. He and his Ala-
bama-based group made up the first African-American combat pilots in our nation’s history. Lt. Col. Gray also known as a Red Tail, and flew 15 combat missions in the European arena. He logged 750 flight hours. Wednesday, March 23, 2016, VITAS Healthcare, the
Words matter: Communicating to end HIV-related stigma By Richard Wolitski, Ph.D `Words matter. They can motivate, empower, and lift people up. They can also do a great deal of damage and tear people down. I was reminded of this in many different ways at the meeting on HIV stigma that the Office of National AIDS Policy (ONAP) and the National Institute of Mental Health (NIMH) recently held at the White House. We heard about how stigma is experienced by people living with HIV in the United States and around the world, what is being done to reduce it, and how we are measuring progress in addressing it. What really stayed with me afterwards is the power that words have to create stigma in the daily lives of people with HIV. This is a reality that everyone living with HIV has experienced. What is less recognized, however, is the negative impact that words have on the lives of people who are HIVnegative and trying to stay that way. Gay men, transgender women, sex workers, people who inject drugs, and others at risk for HIV infection are sometimes treated poorly when they take actions to protect their health, such as being tested for HIV or asking for pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP). Stigma can also be a byproduct of how we talk about HIV data. David Matthews from Bridging Access to Care in Brooklyn, New York, spoke at the stigma meeting about how the recently released data on lifetime risk of HIV diagnosis can stigmatize Black gay, bisexual, and other men who have sex with men (MSM) and potentially undermine the
Malvin Gray Johnson: Symbolic abstractionist during the Harlem Renaissance
Richard Wolitski, Ph.D., Acting Director, Office of HIV/AIDS and Infectious Disease Policy, U.S. Department of Health and Human Services efforts of uninfected Black gay men and others to stay HIVnegative. His words resonated with me. On the one hand, those of us who work for public health have a responsibility to provide people with accurate information about their risk of HIV infection and other threats to their health. Information about how risk accumulates over a lifetime may help some people make a more realistic assessment of their own risk and motivate some to take action. People have a right to know, and we have an obligation to make the data available. This is true even if it is as alarming as the data about lifetime HIV risk that were released at the 2016 Conference on Retroviruses and Opportunistic Infections (CROI). At the same time, however, our ultimate goals are to prevent illness and disease and to improve people’s health and wellbeing. This means we need to be mindful of how data are communicated and their unintended effects, so that we don’t undercut public health efforts. David Matthews noted that the framing of the data about the lifetime risk of black gay, bisexual, and other MSM undermined his own efforts to stay negative by making HIV infection seem almost inevitable.
This is clearly not the reaction we want to encourage. It’s remarkable that one in two Black MSM, three in four Latino MSM, and, overall, five in six MSM will remain HIVnegative, even though the odds are stacked against them. Many men are doing what they need to do in order to protect themselves and others from getting HIV. These data remind us that despite the risks, the majority of gay, bisexual and other MSM can, and will, remain HIV negative for a lifetime. We need to recognize and celebrate those who are getting tested regularly, using condoms, taking PrEP, or using other effective risk-reduction strategies that are keeping them free from HIV infection. And we need to recognize and celebrate the efforts of people living with HIV who are doing their part to make sure they do not pass HIV to anyone. Highlighting these efforts is an important step toward reducing HIV-related stigma. The National HIV/AIDS Strategy (NHAS) explicitly recognizes the impact stigma has on the domestic HIV epidemic: “Stigma and discrimination must be eliminated in order to diminish barriers to HIV prevention, testing, and care.” The NHAS offers a set of recommendations on tackling stigma and discrimination, and ONAP is developing an NHAS indicator to monitor our national progress on reducing stigma. Together, we can make real progress to reduce stigma and ensure that fewer people get HIV. We need to learn from those who are successfully addressing stigma, replicate their approaches in other places and communities, and accelerate efforts to achieve the Strategy’s vision of a nation that is free from stigma and discrimination. Let’s start by recognizing and applauding the efforts of millions of Americans to stay HIV-negative and continue to support them in winning their personal battles against this virus and the stigma that helps it to spread. Unless we speak out against that stigma, we cannot hope to achieve our national goals. From AIDS.gov
Knowledge Is Power By Jae Jones, Black Art, Latest Posts Malvin Gray Johnson only lived for 38 years, but during that time, he ranked high among the most influential African-American men in Black Arts. His work is considered the best among the most significant commentaries on the African-American scene. It was also labeled as Symbolic Abstractionist, being he was one of the first African-American artists to paint in the Cubist style. Johnson’s work captured the mystical pathos and the sardonic humor in the moods of African-Americans. Born in 1896, Johnson was a native of Greensboro, N.C. He grew up in poverty, similar to most young African-Americans during that era. He later moved to New York where he studied at the New York Academy of Design. Along with many other artists, he worked on the Federal Arts Project during the depression. (Read full story on www.thewestsidegazette.com)
Do you know you have a right to free care near the end of life? Do you know hospice services are a benefit of Medicare, Medicaid and most private insurance companies? Minority Health Month is a perfect time to learn more about the decisions your family will face as you all grow older. Start by downloading the free Family Discussion Guide at HospiceCanHelp.com, or scan the QR code. Then read it, share it, email it to someone you love.
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HospiceCanHelp.com For more information on VITAS services in Broward County, please contact Deborah Mizell, community liaison, at 954.777.1824.
On Wednesday, March 23, 2016, VITAS Healthcare paid tribute to the Tuskegee Airmen. Standing from left to right in front of the B-17 Bomber Aircraft are Co-Chair of Honor Flight South Florida Ryan Paton, VITAS Veteran Liaison Karin Edelstein, VITAS General Manager Donna Borland, VITAS Director of Market Development Peter Viebrock, Retired USAF Tuskegee Airman Lt. Col. Leo R. Gray, VITAS Community Liaison and Member of the Tuskegee Airmen Miami Chapter Deborah Mizell and VITAS General Manager Susan Acocella. (Inset) Tuskegee Airman Lt. Col. Leo R. Gray in uniform, circa 1945. nation’s leading provider of endof-life care paid tribute to Gray and other members of the Tuskegee Airmen Miami chapter (MIATAI). The Broward VITAS program hosted lunch and a patriotic tour of a B-17 bomber visiting the executive airport. Many Tuskegee Airmen flew the authentic Red Tail plane. Lt. Col. Gray flew a P-51 Mustang over the skies of Europe. Gray, a Documented Original Tuskegee Airmen (DOTA), flew with the 332nd Fighter Group and dedicated more than 41 years of his life serving the military. This week marked the 75th Anniversary of the Tuskegee Airmen. The Tuskegee Airmen played a large role in American history Born in 1924 in Boston, Massachusetts, Gray joined the U.S. Army Air Corps soon after graduating high school. He began training in 1943, and while stationed in Italy as a fighter pilot, he flew 15 combat missions and logged 750 hours of flying time. Gray left active duty in 1946, but remained in the USAF Reserves until 1984. He holds a bachelor’s degree from the University of Massachusetts
and a master’s degree from the University of Nebraska. In 1953, he began work with the USDA where he served for 30 years. An accomplished soldier, Gray earned a Coveted Air Medal with one Oak Leaf cluster and a Presidential Unit Citation for his extraordinary heroism in action against an armed enemy. MIATAI chapter member and VITAS Community Liaison, Deborah Mizell and VITAS Veteran Liaison, Karin Edelstein, organized the event. Ryan Paton, Co-chair of Honor Flight South Florida lent support to setting up the celebration. Edelstein says, “Every day is Veterans Day at VITAS. At VITAS, we understand that prior military service can have a profound impact on veterans as they approach the end of life, that’s why we’ve developed award-winning programs to provide them with the care and support they need.” Lt. Col. Leo Gray expressed his thoughts on the event, “The VITAS luncheon in honor of the 75th anniversary of the Tuskegee Airmen was a touching and very special event. I truly appreciate the caring recognition and support
of the many VITAS members who attended. Thank you all so much!” Bruce Woodrell and the staff at Banyan Air Services at Fort Lauderdale Executive Airport facilitated the visit and the arrival of the B-17 Red Tail bomber. According to Tuskegee Airmen, Inc., there are approximately 1400 documented members in their local chapters who are still living. There are ap-proximately 20 Red Tail Pilots who served overseas still living. In the United States, veteran deaths account for 25 percent of deaths every year and with more than 1,000 veterans dying every day, it is critical for hospice providers to offer specialized care to veterans and show appreciation for the sacrifices they made for our country. VITAS’ highly trained staff members and volunteers work daily to honor veterans’ preferences for care at the end of life and ensure they receive the respect, comfort and compassion and tributes they deserve. For more information about VITAS’ veteran services, call 800-93-VITAS or visit www.VITAS.com.
Congress Restores Confederates’ Rights with the Amnesty Act of 1872 On May 22, 1872, President Ulysses S. Grant signed the Amnesty Act of 1872. The Act ended voting restrictions and office-holding disqualifications against more than 150,000 former Confederate troops and secessionists. Some 500 military leaders of the Confederacy were excluded from the Act.
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Community Digest
Publix is Proud to Support Community News WHERE SHOPPING IS A PLEASURE
Event
Wayne Barton Study Center’s Good News of Christ Ministries, FREE Grocery Giveaway Food Distribution. Everyone is welcome, bring bags or carts to carry your food, Saturday, April 2, 2016 from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m., at Ebenezer Baptist Church, 816 N.W. First Ave., Hallandale, Fla. For more info call (954) 454-0245.
Seminar
Set Up to Fail: A Day in the Life of a College Student, Sunday, April 3, 2016 from 2 to 4 p.m., at Avant Garde Academy, 2025 McKinley St., Hollywood, Fla. For more info email drwilliams@gottadocollege.com or call (954) 588-2818.
Pleading Our Own Cause STAYCONNECTED-www.thewestsidegazette.com (954) 525-1489
Discussion
Partnerships Transforming Our Community’s Health (TOUCH) invites the community to the PhotoVoice Presentations to hear local students discuss their initial findings and recommendations for Good Neighbor Stores. Good Neighbor Store Initiative’s purpose is to bring awareness of healthier food options, affordable choices and tobacco-free living in neighborhood stores throughout Broward County. Wednesday, April 6, 3-4 p.m. – Dillard High School; Thursday, April 7, 3:154:15 p.m. – Boyd Anderson. For more info visit touchbroward.org
Grand Opening
Jessie Trice Community Health Center, Inc. Hialeah Women’s Center Grand Opening, Thursday, March 31, 2016 at 10 a.m., at Hialeah Medical Plaza, 777 E. 25th St., Suite 316, Hialeah, Fla. For more info call (305) 691-0470.
Health Fair
Community Health & Wellness Fair, free to the community, Saturday, April 9, 2016 from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m., at St. Paul’s United Methodist Church, 244 S.E. Second Ave., Deerfield Beach, Fla. For more info call (954) 427-9407.
Fish Fry
Dillard Class of 1968 Scholarship Committee Fish Fry, Saturday, April 9, 2016 from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m., at Roosevelt Gardens Park, 2841 N.W. 11 St., Fort Lauderdale, Fla. For additional info call Diana Russell-Johnson at (954) 522-4272.
Celebration
Event Broward County Library’s EMU College Club is hosting a special event to educate parents on how to best support their students as they prepare for college, Saturday, April 9, 2016 from 3 to 5 p.m., at the Main Library, Sixth Floor, 100 S. Andrews Ave., Fort Lauderdale, Fla. For additional info (954) 357-7336.
Presentation The South Florida Hunger Coalition presents The Hidden Hungry, Monday, April 11, 2016 at 9 a.m., at Cinema Paradiso Fort Lauderdale, 503 S.E. Sixth St., Fort Lauderdale, Fla.
Festival WOLBM International Festival of Praise, Saturday, April 16, 2016 from 4 to 11 p.m., at Betty Ferguson Community, 3000 N.W. 199 St., Miami Gardens, Fla. Free admission but registration is required, free parking. Registration link: http://wolmifp.eventbrite.com
Fair
The Virgil Hawkins Historical Society, Inc. invites the community to join a Celebration of Three Decades of Preserving the Legacy of Virgil Hawkins honoring Attorney Harley Herman, Saturday, April 9, 2016 at 6 p.m., at Leesburg Community Center, 109 E. Dixie Ave., Leesburg, Fla. Florida Bar Director of Diversity Arnell Willis Bryant guest speaker. For more info call Pastor David Connelly at (352) 408-4257 or Mrs. Betty Stephens Coney at (352) 978-7739 or Dr. Beverly Robinson at (478) 279-9375.
Broward AWARE! Protecting OUR Children to host a FREE Family Fun and Resource Fair, Saturday, April 16, 2016 from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m., at Rev. Samuel Delevoe Memorial Park, 2520 N.W. Sixth St., Fort Lauderdale, Fla. For more info call (954) 377-1119 or (954) 357-5775.
Event Dania Beach PATCH, People Access To Community Horticulture, Dania Beach’s Urban Farm & Market, Saturday, April 16, 2016 from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m., at Dania Beach PATCH, 1200 N.W. First St., Dania Beach, Fla.
Happenings at African-American Research Library and Cultural Center
African-American Research Library and Cultural Center, 2650 Sistrunk Blvd., Fort Lauderale, Fla. For more info call (954) 357-6210. * Network 2 Network Meet Up, Monday, April4, 2016 from 6 to 7:30 p.m. Improve your business & life... NETWORK! For more info www.ItsMeRTP.com / LetsTalks@itsMeRTP.com * Destination Cuba is Muy Caliente,Friday, April 8, 2016 from 6:30 to 9:30 p.m. Here is the schedule of Destination Fridays events in 2016: * May 6 - Haiti * September 9 - Madrid, Spain * October 7 - New York City (Harlem Renaissance) * Saturday, April 2, 2016 Health consultant Verna Roberts will talk about good foods and bad foods at a presentation. * Kite Making workshop, Monday, April 11, 2016 from 3 to 7 p.m. and on Saturday, April 16, from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. To join us in this exciting program, contact Desmond Hannibal at (954) 357-6224 or e-mail dhannibal@browardlibrary.org
Programs
Fundraiser
On Saturday, April 2, GirlTrek Broward County will meet at 9 a.m. at Joseph Carter Park, 1450 W. Sunrise Blvd. to celebrate Supersize Superohero Saturday, a tradition to go out into neighborhoods and walk on Saturday mornings. GirlTrek, a national nonprofit and health movement that activates thousands of Black women to be change makers in their lives and communities through walking, is investing in the Black community. GirlTrek will award $1,000 in seed money to 10 women with the best ideas for making their communities healthier and stronger during what it has dubbed #ActivismApril.
Meeting
Mount Bethel Change Ministries , NAAA Meeting, Every Friday, at 6:30 p.m., at 901 N.W. 11 Ave., Fort Lauderdale, Fla. For more info call (954) 763-5644 or (954) 400-8222.
Meeting
Monthly meeting for Top Ladies of Distinction, Inc. is the second Saturday of the month at 10 a.m., at African Heritage Cultural Art Center, 6161 N.W. 22 Ave., Miami, Fla. For further info call (786) 320 2891.
Classes/Auditions
The YMCA is now offering Diabetes Prevention and Diabetes Self-Management programs to members and nonmembers for free at three different locations: Greater Hollywood, 3161 Taft Street, 954-989-9622; Weston, 20201 Saddle Club Rd., 954-424-9622; Pembroke Pines, 501 SW 172 Ave., 954-727-9622. For more information on dates and times, call your local Y.
EDUCATION MATTERS Every Child Deserves a Chance to Succeed.
Ashanti Cultural Arts registering now, ballet and modern dance classes, Wednesdays, from 5:50 to 6:50 p.m., for ages 6-8-years-old and Wednesday, from 6:50 to 7:50 p.m., for ages 9-12-year-old at Ali Cultural Arts Center, 353 Hammondville Rd., Pompano Beach, Fla. Register online at www.ashanticulturalarts.com or call (954) 482-1553 there is registration fee. Ashanti will have auditions for our performing group, the Ashanti Dancers. Auditions are open to ages 10-18. Students must have some experience in ballet and modern. For more info on the program go to www.ashanticulturalarts.com or call (945) 482-1553.
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March 31 - April 6, 2016 • Page 5
Publix Super Markets to kick off their annual Kappa Leaguers making a difference March of Dimes fundraising campaign Three-week register donation drive runs from April 9-30
By JD Scruggs
March of Dimes President Dr. Jennifer Howse, National Board of Trustees Chair Gary Dixon, and National Ambassador Ismael Torres-Castrodad recently visited Publix and presented President Todd Jones and CEO Ed Crenshaw with the March of Dimes Crystal Award in recognition as the 2015 #2 March for Babies National Corporate Partner and to celebrate their partnership. More than 21 years ago, a small group of Publix associates in Gainesville, Fla. signed up to walk and raise funds for the March of Dimes to help make a difference and improve the health of babies. Today, that team has grown into a companywide campaign, with more than 179,000 associates in 1,111 stores, and with the support of their customers, Publix has raised more than $57 million to help give every baby a fighting chance. “We are very proud of our
21-year history with the March of Dimes, and supporting healthier moms and stronger babies is an extension of who we are,” said Maria Brous, Publix director of media and community relations. “Our customers and associates trust us to support organizations and programs that make a difference in the communities in which we live and work.” The grocery giant will ask customers to join them in their annual fundraising drive starting on April 9th and running
Tulsa race riot leaves hundreds dead, Black community destroyed
Elaine Race Riot: Estimated 856 Blac Sharecroppers murdered who just wanted better pay.Cicero Race Riot: Mob of 4,000 Destroys Apartment Building with one Black family tenants.
through April 30th. At checkout, associates will sell cutouts on which customers can write their name or the name of a baby they love. The register campaign coincides with March for Babies, the March of Dimes signature event, which occurs on April 30 in most areas. “Out of 20,000 teams in the country, Publix ranks as our #2 March for Babies team in the nation. They are one of our most valued partners and their support to the community is matched by their associates’ enthusiasm for this campaign. We are grateful for their leadership and commitment to joining with us for stronger, healthier babies.” said Dr. Jennifer Howse, March of Dimes president. Everyone is encouraged to join in the celebration. To find a March for Babies event near you, visit marchforbabies.org, where you can sign up and raise additional funds to support the March of Dimes. Founded in 1930, Publix Super Markets is the largest and fastest-growing employeeowned supermarket chain in the United States. Publix and its associates excel in community involvement, volunteerism and a commitment to our market areas and beyond. Publix’s commitment to diversity has contributed to our success in being a great place to work and shop.
By Blackthen, Civil Rights, Video On June 1, 1921, the Black community in Tulsa, Oklahoma, was destroyed by a race riot. Prior to June 1st, the community enjoyed significant economic prosperity and political independence. Located in the city’s Greenwood District and known as “Black Wall Street,” it was considered one of the wealthiest Black communities in the nation. On May 30th, a 17-year-old white girl was startled when a 19year-old Black man boarded the elevator for which she was the operator. She screamed, but explained to police that she was simply startled and did not want to press charges. The rumors resulting from that scream morphed into a rape allegation, which set off a race riot that would destroy the community. Almost 300 Black residents were killed and 40 city blocks burned to the ground Related articles : The Race Riot of 1906 that Threatened Atlanta’s Image as a Thriving New South City Hosted by D’Army Bailey, Moments in Civil Rights History, a collaboration with the Equal Justice Initiative, is part of Comcast’s “His Dream, Our Stories’ project. Visit His Dream, Our Stories to share your civil rights story, or that
General Lloyd James Austin, III, the first African American to lead the U.S. General Command. He is responsible for our troops and transitions in 20 countries in the Middle East and southwest Asia. Austin is now the 12th Commander of the US central Command. General Lloyd J. Austin III is a native of Thomasville, Ga. He attended the U.S. Military Academy and obtained a master’s Degree from Auburn University. General Austin was the first African American to serve as the Vice Chief of Staff of the Army. He holds a silver star for his service in Iraq through Operation New Dawn and his tenure in Afghanistan. General Austin is also a 2007 inductee into the Thomasville-Thomas County Sports Hall of Fame. Army Gen. Lloyd J. Austin and his wife, Charlene. (Photo Courtesy of Jack Hadley Black History Museum)
Members of the Kappa League Program of the Pompano Beach Alumni Chapter of Kappa Alpha Psi Fraternity, Inc. have been busy making a difference in the community by identifying and completing various projects for community enhancement. The Kappa League Program provides assistance to young men, especially Black males, of high school age to cultivate and develop their leadership skills with respect to their preparation for collegiate and societal ventures. The Program emphasizes the importance of respect for self, respect for others, and the rewards of community service. The most recent project, “Painting for a Purpose”, involved identifying five homes of senior citizens in the Pompano community which were drastically in need of painting and refurbishing. The event, in partnership with the City of Pompano Beach, occurred over a two weekend period in February—the first weekend consisted of pressure cleaning
Pictured are members of the Kappa League, along with brothers of the Pompano Beach Alumni Chapter of Kappa Alpha Psi and Pompano City employees showing the before and after status of the project. and preparation; the second weekend consisted of a thorough painting and clean-up. By observing the big smiles on the faces of the homeowners, it was obvious that the project was an overwhelming success and met its objectives of teaching life skills; providing service to those in need; taking pride in the community and beautification of the city.
Project leaders were Mr. Kwame Stokes, Polemarch (president), Mr. Willie Brown, Foundation Chair, and Mr. Frank Pinkney, Director of the League. For more information regarding the Kappa League Program, you may contact Pinkney at fjpinkney@gmail.com
Page 6 • March 31 - April 6, 2016
Opinion
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“No longer believed to be sacred” By Pastor Rasheed Z Baaith “You shall be holy, for the LORD your GOD am Holy.” (Leviticus 19:1) Resurrection Sunday, which many of us call Easter, was last week end. It is the most sacred and holy day of the year for the Christian Church. It celebrates the foundation of our belief, which is that Jesus Christ was crucified, died and rose from the grave. And in that dying and resurrection His sacrifice paid for the sins of all those who would believe He was indeed whom He said He was: the Son of God. In the Christian Church of the past, the Church so many of us grew up in, Resurrection Sunday was observed with songs, services, children reciting speeches (many of us could not remember), passionate sermons, dinners
and more. The observances, no matter what form they took, were all held with an aura of sacredness. That cannot be said of how the Church observes the Resurrection today or even Jesus Christ. In its haste and determination to attract as many people to the pews as possible, the Church has become afraid to preach Christ as the center of its being and the only real attraction. Recently I heard a pastor say, “We have decided to make our transformed selves the reason people should come in church doors because we are afraid to preach Jesus.” I agree. Many of our pastors and church leaders don’t believe that Jesus is modern enough, contemporary enough, and attractive enough to draw nonChristians to our services. So there is an exaggerated identity of too many pastors; there are traditional services
and contemporary services; there is the Gospel choir and there is the choir that sings other stuff; there are services where there are people but not families because the children are in a service of their own. Yet, how will they learn how to behave in church during a service or experience worship that is full and anointed? As children, we may not have been able to explain what was going on but we sure knew it was something special. Later we learned what we had experienced was something called sacred. If the center of what any church is doing is not teaching people of the sacredness and unimpeachable Divine Character of Jesus Christ, then that church is just a social gathering. It is not a church earnestly “contending for the faith.” And if we now believe that Christ alone cannot hold the congregations and exert a pull on the
World peace is advanced with the President’s trip to Cuba By Roger Caldwell As the world gets smaller with the advancement of technology, the nations must learn to live together in
peace. President Dwight D. Eisenhower imposed the first trade embargo in 1960, and broke diplomatic relations with Cuba in January 1961. President Kennedy attempted to overthrow Fidel Castro in 1961 during the failed Bay of Pigs operation, and Cuba has been our enemy ever since. For 88 years no American president has visited Cuba, and no American legislator has tried to establish diplomatic relations with the country. Cuba is 90 miles from the United States, and over 54 years, thousands of Cubans have left the country to be American citizens, but our elected officials act as if it does not exist. Cuba has existed as a communist country, and everything is controlled by the government. Many times America’s diplomatic strategy toward countries that are not Democratic, does not make sense, and at times was extremely violent. Even though the United States built relationships with Communist nations like China and Vietnam, Cuba remained one of just a few nations, along with Iran and North Korea, which had no formal ties with Washington. After President Obama won re-election, he resolved to normalize certain diplomatic relations with Cuba. Everyone knew this would be a very difficult negotiation, because many Americans and Cuban citizens believed that the Cuban people lived under a dictator. The negotiations were initiated by Cardinal Ortega and Pope Francis starting in June 2013. President Obama authorized secret negotiations led by two American aides, Benjamin J. Rhodes and Ricardo Zuniga, who conducted nine meetings with Cuban counterparts in Canada. Pope Francis wrote letters to both presidents, and hosted a meeting in the Vatican to finalize the terms of the deal. At the welcoming of President Obama to Cuba, President Castro said, “We have observed in the 15 months that have passed since the decision was made to establish our diplomatic relations, we have obtained concrete results. We were able to resume direct
postal exchanges and we signed an agreement to resume commercial flights. We have signed two memorandums of understanding on the protection of the environment and maritime areas, and another one to secure the safety of sea navigation. Today another one will be signed on cooperation of the areas of agriculture.” Even though certain segments of the American population think this is a bad deal for the United States, President Obama is fostering hemisphere co-operation. Living next to a country that is 90 miles away from the United States, America should at least be talking and have some sort of diplomatic relations. President Obama does not have the power to repeal the trade embargo and blockade, and now the ball is in Congress’s court. The president can only do what he is already doing, and Congress must finish the job. Since the blockade remains in force, many international countries qualify the action, as an act of genocide by virtue of the Convention on the Prevention and Punishment of the Crime of Genocide of 1948. Cuba also considers the blockade as an act of economic warfare, and they believe that the two countries are not at war. In order to move forward toward normalization, it will be necessary to return the territory illegally occupied by Guantanamo Naval Base. There are major issues and problems between the two countries, and either country is all wrong or all right. President Obama has taken a bold step by coming to Cuba, even though there are serious differences on democracy and human rights. This trip to Cuba is just the beginning of building a new relationship with the Cuban people and the two governments. President Obama and his delegation have come to Cuba with an olive branch of peace and friendship. With all the wars around the globe, it is refreshing to see two countries talking about peace.
Does President Obama even care about Black people? Raynard Jackson says that some Black women, for once, are publically criticizing Obama’s choice of Garland to the Supreme Court, unlike their male counterpoints in the Congressional Black Caucus who have decided to accept the President’s continued disdain. By Raynard Jackson, NNPA News Wire Columnist During the past seven plus years, I have been extremely critical of President Obama’s willful neglect and callous disregard for the Black community. Blacks have been the single, largest voting block for President Obama; giving him 96 percent and 94 percent of their vote in 2008 and 2012 respectively. Unfortunately, President Obama has refused to reward this nearly un-
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iversal support from the Black community by way of any specific policies that addresses the Black unemployment rate, the high crime rate, drug sentencing disparities, etc.; nor has he adequately rewarded Blacks to key political appointments. This continued disdain reared its ugly head yet again when President Obama nominated Merrick Garland to the U.S. Supreme Court. Garland, by all accounts, is a much respected jurist and a very decent person. But does the Court really need another white, Anglo-Saxton, Protestant (WASP)? President Obama seems incapable of surrounding himself with anyone who is not from a Harvard/ Yale pedigree. The President has had three picks to the court (including Garland) during his two terms and thinks so little of Blacks, especially Black women, that he has never as so much interviewed a Black female jurist to be put on his short list of potential nominees. Typically a president will put people on his short list to satisfy specific constituent groups, even if he has no intention of nominating the person; it’s done for the optics. (Read full story on www.thewestsidegazette.com)
spirits of those we invite, then we have lost the very essence of our Faith. There is nothing wrong with churches being on the internet or live streaming, or being on the radio or on television. Nothing wrong with pastors writing books or holding conferences, being on panels or participating in interviews. Yet, whatever is being done has to be done with Jesus Christ being the focal point of all that is said or done. And that Jesus has to be theologically stable and historically correct. It cannot be a Jesus that fits into the image of what people want Him to be because His true Self is not present-day enough. He has to be seen as Holy, Sacred, immovable in His moral expectations and while compassionate in His understanding of our faults, be expectant that our belief in Him will bring a transformation of who we are into what He expects us to be. That expectation is that we be holy as He is Holy. Really think about it.
After attacks on Brussels, more personal attacks on Obama By George E. Curry, George Curry Media Columnist Not even President Obama would argue it was the best of timing. While he was on the first leg of a two-stop trip to mend a 50-year nonrelationship with Cuba and a 20-isolation from Argentina, terrorists attacked Brussels. Instead of rushing home, which would serve as propaganda for terrorists, President Obama continued his scheduled journey. But instead of being applauded for his resolve, the President was attacked for everything from attending a baseball game in Cuba to dancing the tango at a state dinner in Argentina. Andrew Napolitano said on Fox News Channel’s Fox & Friends, “At a time when we have a crisis, is that the impression that he wants to convey? He’s a great dancer and maybe he didn’t want to change his plans. But I’m not so sure he should be doing that when everybody else is worried about where ISIS is, who they’re going to kill next, and are they going to come over here. Perhaps he should be giving a different impression of strength and preservation of freedom and safety.” Aside from the reality of President Obama having access to the same tools he would have had if he had returned to Washington, he is being held to a different standard. Bernard Goldberg, a former CBS broadcaster, acknowledged, “...too often conservatives on radio and television wouldn’t give Barack Obama credit if he found a cure for cancer. Look, we need honest analysis, and too often what we’re getting is not honest opinion journalism.” That’s the understatement of the year. As was pointed out by this website, “A particularly intolerable meme continues to play out in the news media and online: apparently U.S. history began on Jan. 20, 2009 when Barack Obama was inaugurated. In case you were unaware, President Obama is evidently the first President to take vacations; he’s the first President to play golf; he’s the first President to be photographed without a suit or tie; and he’s the first President to routinely use a teleprompter. If you believe any of that, then you’re a moron who needs to refresh your memory about all things pre-2009. There you’ll find that not only are President Obama’s vacations and so forth in line with most previous presidents, but in terms of overall time off, he’s taken the fewest vacation days of any modern president other than Bill Clinton. “The latest round of outrage directed at the President has to do with his so-called ‘bad optics’ - allegedly inappropriate non-presidential behavior. In this latest case, President Obama’s crazy decision to remain in Cuba for his historic reopening of U.S./Cuban relations following the dual terrorist attacks in Brussels on Tuesday. A cursory check of AM talk radio, Fox News Channel and conservative Twitter reveals the usual double-standard and historical amnesia we’ve seen over and over again.” To refresh their memories: (Read full story on www.thewestsidegazette.com)
The Gantt Report Political poverty pimps By Lucius Gantt Ladies and gentlemen, start your engines! The races for the 2016 elections began years ago as soon as Barack Obama was elected to his second term as President of the United States. Fakes, charlatans and political goofballs raced to every candidate seeking a political office and proclaimed themselves as political experts! No matter where you live in this nation of opportunity and opportunists, one or more dark skinned citizens are racing to convince political devils of all political persuasions that they can deliver enough Black votes to propel any candidate into the office that the candidate wants. The chosen political campaign pretenders are not graduates of Black college Journalism schools, they are not statisticians, they are not the best and brightest graphic artists, opponent researchers, printers or strategists. They are merely the very best political beggars! They have little or no political or media experience. They have no extensive and successful political track records and they have no serious following in America’s African American communities. But they do have a gift of gab! They can articulate in the best King’s English as to why they should be hired by candidates and how easily they can be controlled by the politician that will pay them. Sometimes, that charlatan talk is not enough. The Black bootleg political consultants can convince every candidate that will listen that they love the major political parties, they admire and cherish white candidates and they, and only they, can beat back Black community activists who tell candidates that Black Lives Matter, equal rights and justice is paramount and that issues of importance to Black people and Black communities should be focused on and not just placed on the political back burner! You see, candidates don’t hire any white political vendors or consultants that pop up in a campaign office and say, “hire me, I’m the best”. They interview multiple political firms that provide the services they desire, they make contact with a variety of political companies that have worked on many local, statewide and national political efforts and they put the greatest value on hiring campaign staffers that have a history of winning elections for political candidates. The white political professionals hired by candidates can put their whole team on the payroll. However, the Toms, Sambos and Jezebels selected to work for candidates can’t hire anybody because they aren’t given any political power and they can’t make political purchasing decisions. The can give a Black voter a ride to the polls, they can pass out an absentee ballot, they can paste a flyer on the hood of a Black person’s car and, if they are lucky, they might be allowed to do a voice over on a symbolic radio ad played on the urban radio station! These modern day political poverty pimps don’t make millions of dollars during the campaigns they work on. They are happy to get a political photo they can post on Facebook or Instagram, a piece of chicken at the political reception or a handshake from a political loser every now and then! I would think the media consultant for Jeb Bush’s failed campaign for President got paid more money than all of the Black political pretenders hired by all of the 2016 Presidential candidates combined! Now, I’m not hating, I admire the brothers and sisters trying to hustle in the world of political campaigns. If they ask me for help or advice I give it to them. But when they ask me to volunteer to help any candidate of any political party, I tell them, “Hell naw!” I will never volunteer to help any candidate, Black or white, that wants Black professionals to work for free when every white political professional gets paid, and if you don’t know, mostly over paid! I wish all of the candidates that hired Chicken George or Aunt Jemima well but I’ll tell you now, months before the general election, that Black voter turnout will be dismal and far, far lower than what President Obama turned out and less than what candidates would get if they spent the money to hire the best educated and trained and the most experienced Black political professionals that were available to generate votes for serious candidates! In politics and in life, you get what you pay for at election time in capitalist countries like the USA. (Buy Gantt’s latest book, Beast Too: Dead Man Writing on Amazon.com and from bookstores everywhere. Contact Lucius at www.allworldconsultants.net. And, if you want to,”Like” The Gantt Report page on Facebook.)
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Church Directory
Worship T his and Every Sunday at the Church of Your Choice This
Bethel Missionary Baptist Church 2211 N.W. 7th Street, Fort Lauderdale, Florida 33061 Church: (954) 583-9368 Email: bethelmbchurchfl@att.net
New Birth Baptist Church The Cathedral of Faith International Bishop Victor T. Curry, M.Min., D.Div.
ORDER OF SERVICES
WORSHIP 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.
Wednesday (NOON DAY PRAYER) ............................................. 12 -1 p.m. Wednesday (PRAYER MEETING & BIBLE STUDY) .................... 645 p.m. Sunday Worship Service ................................................................. 10 a.m. Fifth Sunday Worhip Service ............................................................ 8 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.
WORSHIP SERVICES
911 N.W. 209 Ave., Suite 122 PEMBROKE PINES, FL 33029 (954) 297-9530 ewc@elevatingwordchurch.org www.elevatingwordchurch.org Sunday Prayer -- 10:30 a.m. Sunday Worship -- 10:45 a.m. Wednesday Adult & Youth Bible Study -- 7:30 p.m. MONTHLY EVENTS *Men’s and Women’s Ministry, *Villa Maria Nursing Home *Food Distribution
Pastor McQuaise & Antoinette Hepburn
“Renewing minds, transforming lives, and impacting the world for Christ.”
Faith United Church of Christ 6201 NW 57 Street Tamarac, FL 33319 954-721-1232 uccfaith@bellsouth.net faithbroward.org "Historically the First Church in the City of Tamarac!”
Rev. Dr. Ileana Bosenbark, Senior Pastor WEEKLY SERVICES & EVENTS
Dr. Marcus D. Davidson, Senior Pastor WORSHIP SERVICES & BIBLE STUDY Sunday .................................................... 7:15 a.m. 9:00 a.m. & 11:00 a.m. Sunday School ............................................................................ 10:00 a.m. Wednesday Noonday Service .................................. 12:00-12:30 p.m. Wednesday Night Prayer Meeting ............................................ 6:30 p.m. Wednesday Night Bible Study ................................................... 7:00 p.m. Where the kingdom of God is increased through Fellowship. Leadership, Ownership and Worship F.L.O.W. To Greatness!
St Paul United Methodist Church 244 S.E. Second Avenue Deerfield Beach, Florida 33341 (954) 427-9407 EMAIL EMAIL:: Stpaulmeth@bellsouth.net WEBSITE WEBSITE:: saintpauldeerfield.com
Rev. Dr. Jimmie L. Brown Senior Pastor
SERVICES
Sunday School .................................................................................... 10 a.m. Sunday Worship ................................................................................ 11 a.m. Bible Study (Tuesday) ....................................................... 11 a.m. & 7.p.m.
Obituaries
SUNDAY st
rd
Worship Service (Communion 1 & 3 Sunday) ........................................................... 10 a.m. F.A.I.T.H. Academy for Children (Spiritual Formation) K-12 ................................ 10 a.m.
TUESDAY F.A.I.T.H. Academy for Adults (Spiritual Formation) - Office Complex ...... 10:30 a.m.
WEDNESDAY Worship & Arts Ministry Rehearsals (Open Auditions) - Sanctuary .............................. 7 p.m.
McWhite's Funeral Home BOURNE Funeral services for the late Neville C. Bourne were held March 22 at McWhite’s Funeral Home Chapel.
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 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.
CRIPPS Funeral services for the late Mildred Letitia Cripps - 93 were held March 26 at Bethel Gospel Chapel with Elder Leon Robinson officiating. Interment Lauderdale Memorial Park. HELLOWELL Funeral services for the late Robert Hellowell. HEYWOOD Funeral services for the late Winston George Heywood – 45 were held March 26 at McWhite’s Funeral Home Chapel with Burchell Milton officiating. Interment: Bailey Memorial Gardens.
SUNDAY
"Doing God's Business God's Way, With a Spirit of Excellence"
145 NW 5th Ave., Dania Beach, FL 33004 (954) 922-2529
2300 N.W. 135th Street Miami, Florida 33167
PASTOR
Elevating Word Church
St. Ruth Missionary Baptist Church
Senior Pastor/Teacher
Reverend Jimmy L. English
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"
March 31 - April 6, 2016 • Page 7
Westside Gazette
JACKSON Funeral services for the late Elaine R. Jackson – 69 were held March 26 at New Mount Olive
Baptist Church with Minister A. Mincey officiating. Interment: Sunset Memorial Gardens.
PRICE Funeral services for the late Willie Roger Price - 57 were held March 26 at McWhite’s Funeral Home Chapel with Pastor Emmanuel Jenkins officiating. RHUE Funeral services for the late Donald Rhue – 71 were held March 26 at McWhite’s Funeral Home Chapel with Rev. Robert Daniels officiating. Interment: Sunset Memorial Gardens.
Roy Mizell & Kurtz Funeral Home STYLES Funeral services for the late Agnes Styles – 87 were held March 26 at Bethel Missionary Baptist Church with Rev. Jimmy English officiating. Interment: Forest Lawn Memorial Gardens – Central.
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!”
New Birth House of Prayer for All People invites you to join us for a dual celebration From April 7-10, 2016, at 7:30 p.m., the New Birth House of Prayer for All People, Inc., is celebrating a dual celebration for 38 years in ministry and the 75th birthday of Dr. Queen Esther McCormick, their anointed founder, “Let God Arise” Psalms 68:1. McCormick has serviced the community and body of Christ for over 50 years. Normally a background singer with the nationally known Williams’ Sisters gospel singers, Dr. McCormick released her first of four singles, You Gotta Do What You Gotta Do, No Greater Love, Jesus on the Main Line, and What a Friend We Have in Jesus. Her lifelong singing ministry is now an integral part of her preaching and healing ministry. After having labored in the ministry for over 60 years, Dr. McCormick’s vision for the ministry remains to advance the kingdom of God through active ecumenical teaching and serving. She is committed to the cause. This mighty woman of God continues to win souls for the Body of Christ and to “advance the Kingdom of God through Kingdom Works.” She is a 1960 graduate of Dillard High School in Fort Lauderdale, Fla., Queen received a diploma from Brown Institute of Broadcasting in 1975; a Bachelor’s Theology from International Seminary, Plymouth, Fla., in June 1986; an Honorary Doctorate of Divinity from Undenominational Bible Institute of James City, North Carolina in 1992; a Master’s of Biblical Studies from Logos Graduate School in Jacksonville, Fla., 1993; and a Doctorate of Ministry from Logos Graduate School in Jacksonville, Fla., 1996; In addition to continuing her education, she was an active participant in political and civic organizations including but not limited to the PTA at her children’s school, the Urban League, Kiwanis, OIC, and Operation Big Vote,, WYID and Churches
Mount Hermon A.M.E. Church Reverend Henry E. Green, Jr., Pastor 401 N.W. 7th Terrace, Fort Lauderdale, FL 33311 Phone: (954) 463-6309 FAX 954 522-4113 Office Hours: Tuesday - Friday 8:30 a.m. to 6:30 p.m. Email infor@mthermonftl.com
SUNDAY CHURCH SERVICES Worship Service ..................................................................... 7:30 & 10:30 a.m. Fifth Sunday ONLY .................................................................................... 10 a.m. Church School ........................................................................................ 9:15 a.m. BIBLE STUDY: Wednesday ....................................................................... 10 a.m. Gems & Jewels Ministry Senior Wednesday Wednesday (Bible Study) .................................................... 12 Noon & 7 - 8 p.m. Daily Prayer Line ...................................................................................... 6 a.m. (712)432-1500 Access Code296233#
Mt. Zion Missionary Baptist Church 1161 NW 29th Terr., Fort Lauderdale, Fla. 33311 (954) 581-0455 ● Fax: (954) 581-4350 www.mtzionmbc1161.com
Dr. James B. Darling, Jr., Pastor/Teacher WORSHIP SERVICES Worship Service ............................................................................................................ 10:15 a.m. Sunday School ................................................................................................................ 9:00 a.m. Communion Service (1st Sunday) ........................................................................... 10:15 a.m. Wednesday Night Prayer Meeting ........................................................................... 6:30 p.m. Wednesday Night Bible Study ................................................................................... 7:00 p.m. Saturday (2nd & 4th) Christian Growth & Orientation ................................... 8:30 a.m. But be doers of the Word - James 1:22 nkjv - “A Safe Haven, and you can get to Heaven from here”
Join The Religious Elite In Our Church Directory call us TToday oday -- (954) 525-1489
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DR. McCORMICK In Actions. In 1971, she ran for school board member at large. She served as President of CUSH (Churches United to Stop HIV) for two years. In addition to being the current host of “Feed the Flock” radio ministry, she is founder and president of Compassionate Hearts and Serving Hands, a non-profit organization that offers intervention and prevention services for high risk families residing in Broward County. She has extended the outreach ministry to include Juveniles Achieving Goals and Women of Potency. Dr. Queen Esther McCormick, devoted wife of the late Bishop Samuel McCormick, is the proud mother of six children, grandmother of 12 and great grandmother of two. All of her daughters are actively engaged in ministry at New Birth House of Prayer for All People. The celebrations are: April 7, 7:30 p.m. - New Birth: Feed the Flock Ministry Began, Dr. Queen E.W. McCormick; April 8, 7:30 p.m. - West Coast Love Campaign, Sarasota, Fla., Bishop Henry Porter; April 9, 7 p.m. – Birthday Celebration, New Birth House of Prayer, Dr. Queen E. McCormick; and April 10, 10:30 p.m. – Praise and Worship Celebration Service. New Birth House of Prayer for All People, Inc., 2300 NW 22 Street, Fort Lauderdale, Fla. Contact the Esther McCormick at (954) 357-3405.
Page 8 • March 31 - April 6, 2016
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I remember a line from Gil Scott-Heron, whom I often quote in my articles. In his rendering called “The Bicentennial Blues,” he was discussing the Nixon administration and this nation’s penchant for getting in on the economic action of other nations. He called Henry Kissinger the “International Godfather of Peace, a ‘piece’ of Viet Nam, a ‘piece’ of Laos, a ‘piece’ of Angola, a ‘piece’ of Cuba.” That line is so fitting 40 years later as the POTUS returns from Cuba, accompanied by a dozen business executives. I certainly support entrepreneurship and business development, especially for Black people, and the opportunities for such abound in Cuba if the militaristic government allows it to flourish unfettered. After all, the monthly income for Cubans is around $20, so they could use the sales and marketing opportunities that will surely come with increased tourism and business. Additionally, forward-thinking entrepreneurs from the U.S. can take advantage of these opportunities as well; I trust that many Black business persons will act accordingly. The protracted embargo against Cuba can now be reversed to such a degree that all sides can win. But there are caveats. An article in the International Business Times by Elizabeth Whitman, stated, “Some American businesses are positively salivating at the prospect of finally tapping into Cuban markets, and now, U.S. President Barack Obama’s three-day trip to the island nation is offering a tantalizing taste of the possibilities — particularly for the select crew of business leaders who are tagging along.” That statement conjures up visions of lions going to visit a few sheep to show them how to take better care of themselves. Black Cubans have suffered discrimination and mistreatment for decades. They are at the bottom level of the Cuban economic strata. If our revised friendship fails to bring positive economic change to Black Cubans, baseball, boxing, and entertainment notwithstanding, then once again, as we saw in South Africa, Black folks will be relegated to a narrow and crowded path to Cuba’s new prosperity. Haiti and the Dominican Republic are examples of what happens to Black people, especially when it comes to economic discrimination, preference, and skin tone. The island, historically called Hispaniola, is now divided into two countries, separated by a mountain range and skin tone, those who are lighter skinned and those who use bleaching cream to get that way versus darker people. The Dominican Republic has flourishing tourism and accommodating infrastructure, far from what we see across the border in Haiti. But, you do remember who stepped in to “help” Haitians, don’t you? In January 2010, Time magazine featured an article by Alexandra Silver, Haiti and the Dominican Republic: A Tale of Two Countries, which stated, “Haiti had long been exploited, by foreign powers, neighbors, and its own rulers. France not only milked Haiti for coffee and sugar production but also extracted an indemnity from it: the young nation had to pay a burdensome sum [reparations] to its former colonizer in order to achieve France’s diplomatic recognition. The lighter-skinned Dominicans looked down on the darker-skinned Haitians :in 1965, even as the Dominican Republic was embroiled in civil war, Haitians were working in Dominican fields and not the other way around.” Jalisco Lancer wrote, “Today, to be a Dominican is above all else not to be a Haitian. Schools and newspapers spread propaganda with the goal of dismissing the African heritage of the Dominican Republic and to distinguish between Dominicans and Haitians. The Dominican people are described as a white people of Hispanic descent.” Cuba and Black Cubans especially, should be wary of what is being proposed as help for their island and be prepared to take advantage of the opportunities when they appear; so also should small Black business owners in this country. Charlie Rangel said, “As soon as our multi-national corporations start receiving the benefits of the profits that will be made with trade, I think in the next election we will move any impediments to bring peace, tranquility, and trade to our brothers and sisters in Cuba.” Really? (Read full story on www.thewestsidegazette.com)
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March 31 - April 6, 2016 • Page 9 Westside Gazette Miami Heat: Is Hassan Whiteside key for the playoffs? Miami Hurricanes: This is just the beginning
By D’Joumbarey A. Moreau Strong opinions. When it comes to Hassan Whiteside of the Miami Heat you’re going to find very strong
opinions about the seven-footer who virtually came from nowhere to dropping right into the Miami Heat’s lap. After becoming a borderline All-Star in his second year with the organi-
Miami Dolphins: Is Mario Williams read y to tak e of or Dolphins? eady take offf ffor By D’Joumbarey A. Moreau
LEGAL NOTICES NOTICE TO CONTRACTORS Florida Department of Transportation Project Bids will be received by the Tallahassee Office until 10:30 A.M. on Wednesday, April 27, 2016, for Proposal ID T6391. The improvements consist of intersection improvements on SR 953 in Miami-Dade County. This is a Business Development Initiative (BDI) project, and Certification of Qualification is not required. Budget Estimate $993,933.00. Complete letting advertisement information is available at http://www.dot.state.fl.us/ c c - a d m i n / L e t t i n g s / Letting_Project_Info.shtm or by calling (850) 414-4000.
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. March 3, 10, 17, 24, 31, 2016
All good things must eventually come to an end. Oh, how that saying couldn’t be truer for the Miami Dolphins. After the new deal that defensive end Olivier Vernon signed with the New York Giants, it signaled the end of a relationship with the city that went back as far as birth. South Florida will forever be known as home for Vernon, but it will no longer be the place where he gets paid to play professional football. That sentence in itself is a huge mistake by the Miami Dolphins. But bringing in another defensive end in Mario Williams from the Buffalo Bills to fill the void left by Vernon was not. “Every day I wake up I feel like I have something to prove. Like I was saying, you have bumpy roads. (Read full story on www.thewestsidegazette.com)
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zation, it’s clear more than ever that the Heat are going to have to rely on Whiteside even more than they did in the regular season because in less than a month he’ll be playing in his first taste of the NBA playoffs. The walking double-double who averages 13.9 points, 11.8 rebounds and 3.7 blocks per game is playing his best basketball of the season right before the postseason. In his last five games he’s averaged 19 points, 12 rebounds, and 2.6 blocks while Miami has won three out of their last five including defeating the Cleveland Cavaliers, the second-best team in the Eastern Conference. You can talk about the way that Whiteside might leave his defensive position to get blocks. You can talk about the way that he might mess up by getting into foul trouble. (Read full story on www.thewestsidegazette.com)
By D’Joumbarey A. Moreau They came, they saw, and they conquered. This year for the Miami Hurricanes was one word, redemption. After being left out of the 2015 NCAA Tournament and having to play in the National Invitational Tournament was a huge motivating chip for Miami. Following their loss in the championship game to Stanford inside of Madison Square Garden, Miami started their NCAA Tournament hopes once again and this year they fulfilled them. Not only was Miami one of the favorites coming into the NCAA Tournament, they also were one of the first 12 teams who got invited to the dance. Ranked as a No.3 seed, Miami got one of their highest rankings in school history and they even made it all the way to the sweet 16 round after defeating Wic-
hita State and Buffalo. Though they fell short of their goal and lost to Villanova it bit-ter because it would’ve marked the first time for Miami to ever reach the elite eight in program school history. That just means next year they’ve now got more aspirations to strive for.
“Hopefully, the guys we have coming can have an appreciation for what we’re doing and assimilate quickly. Hopefully, the returning guys will have learned from their experiences. (Read full story on www.thewestsidegazette.com)
Page 10 • March 31 - April 6, 2016
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Hastings and Johnson lead effort to prioritize family homelessness response and expand access to services Vote for Democracy’s sake (Cont'd from FP) All these are rooted in conservatives’ “long-game” strategy to preserve White conservative control of state governments and the Congress by denying as many Americans of color as possible their right to vote. But a second reason is because March itself has an extraordinary history in the post-World War II freedom struggle. That history underscores the point that not since the struggle for Black Americans’ voting rights in the South which reached its dramatic climax 51 years ago in Selma, Ala. - has the fundamental question Americans have always grappled with been so clear and so stark: Is America to be a democracy or not? Before 1965, it was a democracy for whites only. Negro Slavery; the decimation of First Nations’ peoples; rampant discrimination against Hispanic Americans and Asian Americans and Asian immigrants characterized the horrible flip-side reality of White Americans’ incessant boasting of their commitment to “liberty and justice for all.” The Selma Movement, building on decades of struggle across the South, set in motion a dramatic expansion of democracy that is still producing progress - and provoking fierce resistance - today. On March 15, 1965, eight days after the infamous ‘Bloody Sunday” assault of civil rights marchers at the Edmund Pettus Bridge in Selma, President Lyndon Baines Johnson stood before Congress to declare that within days he would submit the legislation that became the landmark Voting Rights Act of 1965 (VRA). LBJ opened his great speech, “The American Promise,” with these resounding words: “I speak tonight for the dignity of man and the destiny of democracy.” He was doing so, he proclaimed midway through the speech, “... because it is not just Negroes, but really it is all of us, who must overcome the crippling legacy of bigotry and injustice.” And then, for emphasis, he repeated words that were the signature declaration of the Civil Rights Movement: “And we shall overcome.” A decade earlier no one would likely have imagined an American president speaking those words. Instead, civil rights forces had to brace for the fundamental message of the Southern Manifesto of 1956. That document, signed by nearly all the Southern Senators and Representatives in Congress and made public on March 12, 1956, was the White South’s answer to the 1954 Supreme Court Brown decision outlawing racial segregation in public schools: That white Southerners’ “massive resistance” to equal rights for Blacks should include violence. (Among those who didn’t sign the statement was Lyndon Baines Johnson, then the Senate Majority Leader.) (Read full story on www.thewestsidegazette.com)
REP. JOHNSON
CONGRESSMAN HASTINGS FORT LAUDERDALE, FL — Representatives Alcee L. Hastings (D-FL) and Eddie Bernice Johnson (D-TX) called on congressional appropriators to prioritize family homelessness and services for homeless individuals in Fiscal Year 2017. In submitting a formal letter to the House Appropriations Subcommittee on Transportation, Housing and Urban Development, and Related Agencies, Hastings and Johnson urged the committee to make it easier for local communities to prioritize their own needs in responding to homeless populations, and expand access to effective services for homeless individuals “Six years ago our country launched a coordinated effort to bring an end to homelessness. Congresswoman Johnson and I have continuously advocated for fully funding the initiative, called Opening Doors, which has had great success in getting homeless veterans and the chronically homeless off the streets, and assisting those on the verge of losing their homes,” said Congressman Alcee L.
Hastings. “Despite these successes, far too many Americans remain on the streets, and today, nearly half of those in our country without permanent shelter are families. Local communities know their own needs and are best positioned to assist vulnerable populations of homeless individuals. That is why it is so important that the Subcommittee continue to support Opening Doors, but also include provisions that give local communities the ability to better address the needs of their homeless populations. I thank Congresswoman Johnson for co-leading this effort, as well as all of the Members of Congress who supported our letter.” “Since Opening Doors began, we have seen great success in reducing homelessness among certain populations of Americans,” said Congresswoman Eddie Bernice Johnson. “We must continue to focus on preventing and ending homelessness for American families, who remain the most vulnerable. We know that local communities are best poised to determine the needs of the local population and to provide services to those individuals. We also know that Trauma-Informed Care, treatment that respects understanding, recognizing, and responding to the effects of trauma, is a
Student journalists get jobs, Black Newspapers get reporters (Cont'd from FP) MC Lyte has signed on as the program’s national spokeswoman. “Young people have always been on the forefront of reporting what’s happening in the African American community,” MC Lyte said during the announcement. “I’m excited to be involved with emerging young writers who have the power to shape our voices the same way hip hop emcees broke ground telling our stories.” Taj Brayboy, Howard University News Service, contributed to this story
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valuable approach to providing services. Thanks to Congressman Alcee Hastings, we have brought these issues to the attention of the Appropriators.” Hastings and Johnson are the founders and Co-chairs of the Congressional Homelessness Caucus. The Caucus works to educate Members of Congress in the challenges and most
effective solutions for eliminating homelessness in the United States. Congressman Alcee L. Hastings serves as Senior Member of the House Rules Committee, Ranking Democratic Member of the U.S. Helsinki Commission, and Co-Chairman of the Florida Delegation.
Come together or die apart (Cont'd from FP) What ills you might ask, could beat a vicious Black male; violent criminal, drug user to death if his own behaviors haven’t killed him already? The virus called personal human judgment will kill you faster than any nuclear/chemical warfare known to man with devastation greater than the plague. The police officers that beat King could be classified as victims also but of a different kind. They were victims because they allowed themselves to be used by other people’s feelings and ideologies. They have been living their entire lives based upon premeditated lies, phobias and a disregard for those who do not look like them. This distorted illusion of grandeur permeates human existence as though it were more precious than the life sustaining essentials of blood, food, oxygen and water. This human killer is running neck-to-neck with its archenemy and formidable competitor, LOVE. Why can’t we just love one another? I am willing to bet you that the 16 police officers charged with murder or manslaughter this year in on-duty shootings - not to include the six officers charged in the death of Freddie Gray because he died from a spinal cord injury in a police vehicle - wish they had loved those who they killed instead of judging them based upon the lies to which they have lived. If we were to look at each situation that is causing this world to crumble, we would find that the absence or lack of love was at root cause. This comedic display of what is supposed to be our political process on display at its best is one that has lost its love appeal. We need to be able to face the truth and own up to our parts in the perpetual motion of circulating the visceral pollutant of judgment. Death by judgment is cruel, cold and callous due to the manner that it slices into you, akin to a piece of cold, razor sharp steal; then it eats away at your core like a festering sore. The cure for this malignant invader is just as disruptive and extremely successful with a much more penetrating and overwhelming outcome. Love. Its approach is more palatable than honey and endures from everlasting to everlasting. “Love is patient; Love is kind and envies no one. Love is never boastful, nor conceited, nor rude; never selfish, not quick to take offence. Love keeps no score of wrongs; does not gloat over other men’s sins, but delights in the truth. There is nothing love cannot face; there is no limits to its faith, its hope and its endurance. Love will never come to an end….” ——— ———————————1 Corinthians 13:4-8 NEB LORD, THANK YOU FOR TEACHING ME HOW TO LOVE. WHEN OTHERS SEE ME, MAY I BE AN EXAMPLE OF THAT LOVE. AMEN
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March 31 - April 6, 2016 • Page 11
Westside Gazette For young men like Justin Wright, life is more than just a game
by Artist Yvette Michele Booth
Perennial National high school football powerhouse St. Thomas Aquinas High School in Fort Lauderdale’s senior Wright excelled on the gridiron as well as in the classroom. By Charles Moseley Justin Wright’s story is just another reason why parents as well as teachers, coaches, preachers, and others in the community must pour into the lives of our young people. Wright is an example of what can be achieved by someone, with the proper guidance; when they put in the hard work and make good decisions in life. It’s not by accident that good things happen. When the opportunity came, Wright was prepared to meet the challenge and take advantage of getting a college education paid for in advance by the long hours he put in academically as well as athletically. Wright is a senior at St. Thomas Aquinas High School in Fort Lauderdale. The honor student excels in the classroom as well as on the field. He has a 4.0 grade point average, and the defensive back recently signed a scholarship to play football at Florida Institute of Technology in Melbourne, Fla. During the 2015 track and field season at St. Thomas Aquinas, he was awarded the Brad McKinney Memorial Award that “commemorates those who best carry on the tradition of unselfish devotion to the good of the team.” Wright is a member of the 100 Black Men of Greater Fort Lauderdale Leadership Academy where he learns about health and wellness, finance and education. He enjoys volunteering at the Dr. Reitman Unit Boys & Girls Club, where he serves as a role model for young aspiring student athletes. He’s a member of the New Mount Olive Baptist Church in Fort Lauderdale and credits his parents, Dennis and Veda Wright, for raising him to value good morals. Young Wright took a moment of his obviously busy schedule to shed some of his insights with the Westside Gazette newspaper. So the following are some of Wright’s thoughts which hopefully reach some readers out there, whether you’re young or young at heart, in need of inspiration. W G: How are you able to balance the challenges that come with being a student athlete? Wright: I am able to balance the challenges that come with being a student athlete mainly by time management and making sacrifices. When I get home after a day of school and practice, I prioritize by doing my homework before enjoying any leisure time. WG: Who do you consider are some of the positive role models that have influenced you in your life? Wright: The positive role model that has influenced my life the most is my father. He tells me his experiences and understands my experiences and gives me advice on how to handle each situation. Additionally, by observing how others behave in general, it further allows me to define who I am as a person.” WG: How has your experience been attending St. Thomas Aquinas High School? Wright: My experience at St. Thomas Aquinas High School has been productive as well as fun. I was able to obtain an outstanding education and compete with some of the best football players in Florida. The people I have met also opened my eyes to a world outside of what I’m use to in my own backyard.
Justin Wright epitomizes the meaning of student athlete as he is shown on National Signing Day recently, where he made it OFFICIAL! Wright will be attending the Florida Institute of Technology, in Melbourne, Fla. Pictured-Top row: All Coaches. Darryl Williams, Matt Helmerich, Ameer Riley, Alex Armenteros (track), and Roger Harriott. Bottom row: Myles Wright, brother, Mae Wright, grandmother, Justin Wright, signee, Veda Wright, mother, and Dennis Wright, father. WG: What has been your vative focus in technology. biggest challenge in life to Everything FIT does, no matter date and what do you con- what field of study you choose, sider your proudest mo- revolves around technology. I plan on majoring in Pre-Law. I ment? Wright: My biggest chal- feel that FIT will provide me lenge is being able to handle with an advantage in the field the fact that everything does of law since our world relies so not always go your way. Every- heavily on technology. They thing you do has a consequence. also have a progressive and comI learned that I just had to do petitive football program. what is best for me, and God WG: What advice would won’t let me fail. My proudest you give to young people moment was signing a National on what you’ve found it Letter of Intent to play football takes to be successful so far for Florida Institute of Techin life? nology during National SignWright: For the young people ing Day on Feb. 3. I believe all that want to be successful, you the athletes aspire to experience have to be resilient. You can’t this moment. WG: Why did you choose let obstacles that you face preto attend the school that vent you from achieving what you selected as you move you want to achieve. That obon to the next phase of your stacle is put in place to motivate you to work harder. It is life? Wright: I chose to attend also put in place to make you Florida Institute of Technology stronger and more appreciative (FIT) because of their inno- of your success.
SAN FRANCISCO, CA - – So what is in your children’s doodles? More than one could ever imagine when it wins a $30,000 dollar scholarship from Google. The California - based company runs a contest every year for students to have their doodle showcased on Google. The 2015 National Winner of this contest is Akilah Johnson, a 10th grader from Washington, D.C. The Internet giant showcased Johnson’s doodle prominently on their homepage on March 21, 2016. Her design showcases her views on her heritage and culture as Black American. Johnson named her doodle, “My Afrocentric Life”. She used color pencils, black crayons and Sharpie markers to bring her artistic creation to life. She shares her life experience from left to right , starting with her childhood experiences and shades of her personality with such current-day themes as the Black Lives Matter movement. Her inspiration for the doodle, she says, came from the quote: “Be the type of person that not only turns heads, but turns souls. She was recently quoted, “I grew up learning a
“Doodle 4 Google gave me an understanding of why art matters and why MY art matters — it’s because it speaks to people,” Johnson said. “No matter the differences we have, everyone is touched by all art in some way.”
What is the “Doodle 4 Google” contest? Doodle 4 Google is an annual contest open to students in grades K-12. Students are invited to create their own Google doodle for the chance to have it featured on the Google homepage. Google answers questions for visitors about the program. “Why did you choose the theme “What makes me...me.”? There are a million and one facts, interests, and quirks that make everyone unique. For centuries, artists have created paintings, sculptures, self-portraits, and more to offer insights into their personalities and values. Now, we’re asking kids to do the same by creating a doodle that shows the world what they’re passionate about, what gets them excited, or what they dream about. In other words, we’re asking that this year’s doodles explain “What makes me...me. We’ve been hosting the Doodle 4 Google contest every year in the U.S. since 2008, so this is our eighth year. This
lot about my history as an African American. As I grew older, I realized that the Black people that came before us has made us into what we are today, so of course I had to include them in my doodle. Her doodle features Nelson Mandela, Malcolm X, Rosa Parks, Ruby Bridges, Angela Davis, Colin Powell and Bill Cosby. She was selected from 100,000 submissions to the “Doodle 4 Google” competition for young artLVWV DQG LV WKH ¿UVW %ODFN $PHULFDQ WR ZLQ WKH FRPSHWLWLRQ &HOHEULW\ MXGJHV ZHLJK LQ RQ WKH ¿QDOLVW website shows details for the U.S. only contest, submissions. The 2015 celebrity judges include: but the Doodle 4 Google contest takes place in Golden State Warriors’ Stephen Curry, soccer many other countries throughout the year as well.” player and Olympic gold medalist Alex Morgan and actors Julie Bowen and B.J. Novak. The top Why is Google doing this contest? Doodles are ¿YH ¿QDOLVWV ZHUH LQYLWHG WR *RRJOH¶V 0RXQWDLQ meant to surprise and delight people when they View, CA campus for the announcement. They visit the Google homepage. Past Doodles have had a day of workshops with the doodle team and celebrated some of the most brilliant, talented, and passionate people throughout history. guest judges. The National Winner will have his or her doodle featured on the U.S. Google.com homepage for one day. He or she will receive: • A $30,000 college scholarship • A $50,000 Google for Education grant for his or her school • A trip to the Google Headquarters in California to meet the Google Doodlers, and the opportunity to nominate a teacher to come on the trip • A Chromebook • An Android tablet • A t-shirt printed with his or her doodle on it
WASHINGTON, D.C. — On Monday, March 28, on the South Lawn of the White House, Britney Flemming came all the way from Hawaii to participate in the 138th Annual White House Easter Egg Roll with her 2-year-old son Zavie roll Easter eggs. Photo by Cheriss May, Howard University News Service
If you would like to submit your student to the Doodle for Google visit https://www.google.com/doodle4google/
Artists of all ages have a message to share in helping eradicate this epidemic that is affecting our community.
Broward County has the highest AIDS Rates in the USA!
ART ON AIDS/HIV
From The Center for Disease Control “Blacks/African Americans have the most severe burden of HIV of all racial/ethnic groups in the United States. Compared with other races and ethnicities, African Americans account for a higher proportion of new HIV diagnoses, those living with HIV, and those ever diagnosed with AIDS. The Numbers - HIV and AIDS Diagnoses In 2014, 44% (19,540) of estimated new HIV diagnoses in the United States were among African Americans, who comprise 12% of the US population. Among all African Americans diagnosed with HIV in 2014, an estimated 73% (14,305) were men and 26% (5,128) were women. Among all women diagnosed with HIV in 2014, an estimated 62% (5,128) were African American, 18% (1,483) were white, and 16% (1,350) were Hispanic/Latina. Women accounted for 25% (5,168) of the estimated 20,792 AIDS diagnoses among adults and adolescents in 2014 and represent 20% (246,372) of the estimated 1,210,835 cumulative AIDS diagnoses in the United States from the beginning of the epidemic through the end of 2014.” Photography Credits: Westside Gazette Stock Photography, Akilah Johnson IURP WKH SXEOLF GRPDLQ RI¿FLDO *RRgle page. Press releases send to arts@thewestsidegazette.com. Advertising call (954)-525-1489
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Westside Gazette
Chi Psi Omega ChapterPartners withWaste Pro USA for '1908 Acts of Green'
Seated l to r: Kenneth Rivera, Waste Pro USA; NLA Commissioner Rich Moyle, Mayor Jack Brady, Commissioner Lorenzo Wood and Vice Mayor, David Hilton. Chi Psi Omega Chapter of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority,
Dr. Queen Esther McCormick
Incorporated left “no holds barred” for the community Saturday, March 19, 2016 at
the Tamarac Library, in showcasing “1908 Acts of
Pastor Angela C. McCormick
Bishop Henry L. Porter
New Birth House of Prayer For All People invites you to join us for a Dual Celebration of ‘38 years in Ministry and 75th Birth Year” of Dr. Queen McCormick
“Let God Arise” -- Psalms 68:1 April 7, 2016 - Dr. Queen E.W. McCormick -- New Birth: Feed the Flock Minstry Began April 8 -- Bishop Henry Porter -- West Coast Human Development Center/Love Campaign, Sarasota, FL April 9 - Birthday Celebration -- Dr. Queen E. McCormick, to held at New Birth House of Prayer for All People April 10 -- Praise and Worship Celebration Service
New Birth House of Prayer for All People, Inc. eet, For dale, FL 33311 NW.. 22 Str Street, Fortt Lauder Lauderdale, 2300 NW Esther McCormick - (954) 357-3405
7:30 p.m. 7:30 p.m. 7:00 p.m. 10:30 a.m.,
Green”, under the auspices of Target IV: Environmental Ownership. The day was set aside by Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Incorporated International Program Committee for chapters to show their communities the many “Acts of Green” by the sorority. Chi Psi Omega partnered with Waste Pro USA for this event. Waste Pro USA proudly sponsors the chapter’s “Acts of Green” initiatives. Kenneth Rivera, Government Affairs Manager for the company, rolled out to the community through several mini-presentations its acts of being clean and green now and its readiness for the future. The mini-presentations were engaging, thought-provoking, paradigm shifting, showed how our partnership worked well with this event and could work cohesively with our future acts of green. Audience showed their preparedness with questions and had a productive learning day. A highlight of the program was Ashley Greene 2nd Vice- President presenting the chapter’s plaque to partner Kenneth Rivera, Waste Pro USA. ASCEND students, the International President’s signature program and the chapter’s youth group, provided tickets for prizes and organized registration; including signing in the participants. More importantly, they conducted evaluations for feedback. Light, heart-healthy and nutritious refreshments were served. Special guests included Mayor Jack Brady, Vice Mayor David G. Hilton, Commissioners Rich Moyle and Lorenzo Wood of the city of North Lauderdale. Chapter members participating included Ashley Greene, 2nd Vice-President; Kassandra L. Burton, Target IV: Environmental Ownership Chairman; Miriam Cato, Co-chairman; Dr. Barbara J. Thomas, Coordinator; Crystal Brumfield, Sherri Cooper, Takesha McCray, Josetta Patterson, Joyce Toran, Cheryl Waide, Candace Wardlaw and Malikh Williams. ASCEND students included Kennedy Butter, Kieana Chance, Kamea Humes and Caroline St. Louis.
www.thewestsidegazette.com
How families can help end prison’s revolving door for inmates
They serve their time and are released, free men and women once again. But within a year, more than 40 percent of ex-prison inmates end up back behind bars. Within five years, three-fourths are arrested again, according to one study that tracked prisoners released in 2005. In the wake of arrest after arrest they leave behind sorrowful mothers, fathers, siblings and spouses who long to help, but are unsure how to end the cycle. “The problem is prison life doesn’t prepare the average inmate to succeed on the outside,” says Christopher Zoukis (www.ChristopherZoukis.com), a prison-education advocate who himself is incarcerated at the medium-security Federal Correctional Institution Petersburg in Virginia. “So when they can’t adjust or they fail to land a job, they get in trouble again.” Better education opportunities in prison would help, but spending tax money to educate inmates is a tough sell, says Zoukis, author of two books on the subject – College for Convicts: The Case for Higher Education in American Prisons” (McFarland & Co., 2014) and Prison Education Guide (Prison Legal News Publishing, 2016). So prisoners must take matters into their own hands, and that’s where family mem-
bers play a critical role, he says. Just as parents on the TV show “Beyond Scared Straight” strive to keep young people out of prison, families of those already behind bars can intervene to keep them from returning. The family should encourage inmates to take steps now that will help them succeed once they are on the outside, he says, such as: • Earn a GED or high school diploma. Many prisoners lack the education that is a critical element in a successful job search. Fortunately, most prison systems offer the opportunity to earn a GED. Unfortunately, a true high school diploma isn’t as easy to come by. • Research career opportunities. Prisoners need to determine what career best suits their personality, skills and interests, but remind them to be realistic. “They are more likely to succeed with a job that has few entry requirements,” Zoukis says. “Any occupation that requires a substantial amount of money to start, or an advanced education, is probably out of reach.” • Read and read some more. Once prisoners narrow their career ideas, encourage them to read up on each field. This enables them to understand how to find employment in the field and determine entry requirements. (Read full story on www.thewestsidegazette.com)