The Westside Gazette

THE WESTSIDE GAZETTE POST OFFICE 5304 FORT LAUDERDALE, FL 33310

PRSRT STD U.S. POSTAGE PAID FT. LAUDERDALE, FL 33310

PERMIT NO. 1179

VOL. 45 NO. 3

50¢

A Pr oud PPaper aper ffor or a Pr oud PPeople...Sinc eople...Sinc Proud Proud eople...Sincee 1971

THURSDA THURSDAYY, FEBRUAR FEBRUARYY 25 - WEDNESDA WEDNESDAYY, MARCH 22,, 2016

The end of an era: ASA Computers closing Feb. 29

Rocky and Marilyn Davis

By Audrey Peterman After 25 years as the most solid resource for computers and as rare Black leaders in the technology sector, Rocky and Marilyn Davis will close their beloved ASA Computers store and migrate their business online. The youthful couple,

happily married for 50 years (at least 25 of which they’ve also worked together), plan to spend more time relaxing and pursuing their personal interests.

The Davises’ legacy will live on into infinity based upon the caliber of work they’ve done and generations

of young people they’ve trained.

I still remember Rocky quoted in the Westside Gazette in the early 1990s: “Computers are just an ap-pliance, like a washing machine. You don’t have to be intimidated by them.”

I asked Rocky and Marilyn how they’re feeling

a week away from closing.

“I have mixed feelings,” said Rocky. “You’ve spent all these years to build something you’re proud of. You’re serving the community. Through the years we’ve trained numerous young Black folk in technology. You worry about who’s going to do that in an unbiased way.”

“It’s almost like your baby,” said Marilyn. “You nurture it from the beginning, so it’s bittersweet.”

What has the experience been like?

“There wasn’t anybody to teach us,” Rocky laughs. “We learned it from the ground up. We took a different route. Many Black people that start businesses look for state, federal and local grants program to support them. There’s nothing wrong with that. But when the programs run out, so does the business. We put up our shingle and said this one thing is what we do – computers. We accumulated over 8,000 customers over 25 years.”

What have you learned that you’d like to share?

“When we were growing up, our parents told us to get a good education so we could get a good job. Part of that was right.

It’s important to get a good education, but find something you love to do. Because if you have to work for the rest of your

FABOM connects with legislative leaders and visit FAMU cancer research lab

Group tour laboratories.

TALLAHASSEE, FL — Members of the Florida Association of Black Owned Media (FABOM) dialogued with members of Florida’s power elite during its two-day visit to the state Capitol. Florida House Speaker Steve Crisafulli and

Senate President Andy Gardiner met with members and discussed a new communications path to the African American Community. The leaders will be providing legislative overviews to the papers at the session’s con-

Pleading Our Own Cause

clusion, which is a first and a welcome addition.

FABOM members traveled a few miles from the capitol to Florida A&M University for an update on the critical science discoveries at the nation’s number one HBCU research institu-

WWW.

tion. Vice President for Research, Timothy Moore. Ph.D., reviewed the doubling of research dollars and the upgrade of the research status to a Carnegie Level II. The tour of laboratories brought a discussion of the progress of breast cancer research which is a major killer of African American women. Ravi Doddapaneni, a post-doctoral research associate, gave members a firsthand look at cancer cells and discussed their deadly destruction of human tissue.

The Alpha Kappa Alpha Town Hall Meeting, Black Lives Matter, was moderated by FABOM Secretary Gayle Andrews. A vigorous panel discussion was led by civil rights attorney and super advocate Daryl Parks, FABOM President Bobby Henry, Sr., Leon County Commission Chairman Bill Proctor, Leon County Schools Superintendent Jackie Pons, Sharon Ofuami, Leon Crime Stoppers executive director and several others.

FABOM will return to Tallahassee prior to the end of February for a final discussion of issues before the end of the legislative session.

life it better be something you enjoy. Fortunately, my wife loves bookkeeping, loves numbers. Me? I’m a gadget freak, so I get to come in and play with all the toys. We haven’t ‘worked’ a day in 25 years.”

What would you say is your legacy?

“The best legacy is to see one of our original trainees and

(Cont'd on Page 2)

BTAN Broward County, Fla.: Forging forward through strong partnerships

Patricia Fleurinord and Krystle Knight-Mobley of BTAN Broward.

In 2014, Broward County, Fla., reported 993 new cases of HIV, an infection rate surpassed only by Miami-Dade County in the Sunshine State, and underscoring the importance of the county’s BTAN chapter. We ask Black Treatment Advocates Network (BTAN) Broward co-chairs Krystle Knight-Mobley and Patricia Fleurinord about the four-year-old organization.

BTAN Broward is known for having great partnerships. What are some of the groups that you partner with?

Patricia Fleurinord (PF): Our main partner is the Department of Health in Broward County. Our community organizations include the YMCA, the Pride Center, AHF [AIDS Healthcare Foundation], Latinos Salud, Care Resource and our host site, Broward House, where I am an intervention case manager. There’s also the local Broward Health, Janssen, Merck, as well as some of the Black churches, sororities and fraternities.

What are some of the chapter’s main activities?

PF: We collaborate with the YMCA and other agencies to hold a barbecue where we educate and sign new people on to BTAN. We also attend the Black Elected Officials luncheon to inform the local leaders about emerging AIDS prevention and care and treatment issues so they can make policy changes and help reduce racial disparities. We participate in

The Westside Gazette Newspaper

@_Westsidegazett

thewestsidegazette.com

(954) 525-1489

employees now running for the state legislature; another has a degree and works for a company that does war simulation. At one time, many of the techni-cians hired by CompUSA had interned with us so they could validate their credentials. We came, we saw and we did all we could do.”

Thewestsidegazettenewspaper

the annual Martin Luther King Jr. parade and other local pa-rades and events that celebrate and honor our historical Black leaders.

Krystle Knight-Mobley (KKM): At the Martin Luther King parade, we disseminate condom packets that contain HIV education information; information on available resources; BTAN co-chair contact information; a calendar listing our meeting dates, times and locations; and that lunch or dinner is included [in the meeting agenda]. Our monthly meetings have been consistent since 2013.

What factors contribute to your success?

KKM: Dedication, perseverance and support from the Department of Health in Broward County, especially the HIV and viral hepatitis program. The department’s level of dedication is demonstrated by the fact that in my position as the Department of Health Minority AIDS Coordinator, I also serve as BTAN co-chair, which allows me to work to make sure BTAN is successful.

We stay focused on accomplishing all of our work-plan goals and making sure that Black people of Broward County are knowledgeable on the HIV scientific literacy.

PF: We’re also always reminded that Black lives matter. We’re really supportive of that movement.

What recent and upcoming events is the chapter involved with?

(Cont'd on Page 2) MEMBER: National Newspaper Publishers Association ( NNPA), and Southeastern African-American Publishers Association (SAAPA) Florida Association of Black Owned Media (FABOM)

Page 2 • February 25 - March 2, 2016

www.thewestsidegazette.com

Westside Gazette

Should Fort Lauderdale police officer get job back amidst racist allegations?

By Lawrence Knight, Intern Student Writer Now that all the facts and testimonies have been heard and the legal dust has begun to clear. Should former police officer, James Wells, be given a

second chance to once again protect and serve our community? It was clear through first hand testimony and witness depositions that Wells and three other officers at the time of employment with the City of Fort Lauderdale Police Department

shared racially sensitive text messages that depicted African Americans, Latino Americans and President Obama in a derogatory manner. It was proven that on multiple occasions the four officers partook in sharing degrading text mes-

sages that contained racist and prejudice language I dare not repeat in spoken or written form.

If it had not been for two courageous woman, Pricilla Perez and her mother Milda Perez, who copied the racially sensitive text messages and videos from Pricilla’s than boyfriend and former Fort Lauderdale police officer Alex Alvarez’s phone and turned them over to the Internal Affairs division of the police department we would’ve probably never found out exactly how he and his former colleagues really felt about the very citizens they were sworn to protect and serve.

Alvarez and his three former colleagues repeated actions prove that they made errors in judgment in regards to racial sensitivity on multiple occasions without remorse. Wells however is the only one of the three who believes that he alone should be given a second chance to once again protect the citizens of the City of Fort Lauderdale.

In response to his request I ask isn’t justice supposed to be blind, unbiased and fully ob-

Hillary Clinton meets with civil rights groups, Black millennials

By Freddie Allen, NNPA News Wire Senior Washington Correspondent

Former Secretary of State Hillary Clinton (c) met with Marc Morial, the president and CEO of the National Urban League (l), Rev. Al Sharpton of the National Action Network and other leaders from civil rights groups to discuss the needs of the Black community.

(Freddie Allen/AMG/NNPA)

A few days before presidential hopeful Hillary Clinton racked up a huge win in Nevada’s Democratic primary, largely thanks to the overwhelming support that she received from Black voters, the former Secretary of State met with civil rights leaders for a frank discussion about the 21st Century Agenda for Jobs and Freedom.

According to exit polls from the Democratic primary in Nevada conducted by CBS News, Senator Bernie Sanders (D-Vt.) won 53 percent of the Hispanic vote while Clinton garnered 45 percent of the Hispanic vote.

(Read full story on www.thewestsidegazette.com)

jective? Are these not the principles our legal system is supposed to be built upon? After hearing all the facts and testimonies during Well’s arbitration it seems that we still have a long way to go. We live in a day and age were accountability for police brutality and misconduct toward minorities is at the fore front of public debate and angst, so how do we move forward?

We should all forgive Wells for his actions, because we all have made mistakes in our own lives at one point or another.

However when we make those mistakes we should be held accountable for them, so that the healing process can began.

The City of Fort Lauderdale made the right decision to fire Well’s and his former colleagues for their misbehavior. If his fir-

BTAN Broward County, Fla. (Cont'd from FP) KKM: The PrEP tour was Feb. 7 in observance of National Black HIV/AIDS Awareness Day. We invited both national and local figures from the Black community. [Black AIDS Institute President and CEO] Phill Wilson presented on two topics. Breakout sessions focused on the influence of intersectionality on Black women, MSM, youth, transgender and heterosexual men. Our chapter developed some action steps to communicate with each of those groups about PrEP. And we have hosted several HIV-workforce trainings to provide continuous HIV education to ensure that HIV-positive clients receive the best support and accurate knowledge that will improve their treatment.

PF: And we’re looking forward to the Sistrunk Festival.

Sistrunk has one of the highest rates of HIV in the 33311 zip code. They have a festival every year, and we’re definitely gonna be out there doing HIV testing and getting the message out about BTAN Broward.

April Eugene is a Philadelphia-based writer.

ing is upheld it will send a clear message to all, that in the City of Fort Lauderdale our public servants will be held to highest standards in regards to professionalism and personal conduct on or off the clock.

The end of an era (Cont'd from FP) “They’ve been so wonderful, “offered Jeremy Lai-Fang, approaching the end of a threemonth internship with ASA through Career Source. “I’m disappointed that they won’t be here for other young people, but I’ll never forget the lessons they taught me about computers and about life. They deserve it.”

So really, what are you going to do next, Rocky?

“Sleep late. Go to the beach a lot more. Read. Get up and exercise. Remember I’ve been working since I was 15, right out of high school, in a grocery store.

Then into the military, then you have a family so I’ve been working more than 50 years straight. I think I’ll go back to playing piano.”

“I’m looking forward to more relaxation, not being so much in the rat race,” says Marilyn. “I plan to keep serving on the City of Lauderdale Lakes’ Economic Development Advisory Board.

I’m secretary of our homeowners’ association and treasurer of my church, Harris Chapel United Methodist, so I’m not really retiring.”

While serving quietly and consistently as leaders in the Broward County community, the Davises have raised two sons and now have seven grandchildren and four greatgrandchildren.

I hope you take the opportunity to go by and see Rocky and Marilyn one last time at 4031 N.W. 34 St. in Lauderdale Lakes, Fla. before Tuesday.

Then the office closes and the Davises migrate to asaonsite.com.

www.thewestsidegazette.com

February 25 - March 2, 2016 • Page 3

Westside Gazette

FAMU SBI students inspired by Microsoft chairman learned to play golf. He quickly transitioned into the other realities of a changing business climate. The consummate salesman, Thompson said, “Nothing

happens until someone sells something.” The passion for sales, the ability to communicate and to have a strong technology background is key according

Thompson.

Strength in science, technology, mathematics and engineering are also critical strengths in necessary to di-

Dowridge, as American Hero Frederick Douglass

Dean Shawnta Friday-Stroud, Ph.D., and Microsoft Chairman John W. Thompson at the ribbon cutting for the School of Business the Interdisciplinary Center for Creativity and Innovation, an incubator for designed to promote business startups.

TALLAHASSEE, FL — It was the third time John W. Thompson returned to the campus of Florida A & M University in 18 months. This reunion with business majors was at the university where he began his successful journey to corporate prominence, as chairman of Microsoft, most recently.

In two different sessions, hundreds of business majors listened closely to Thompson map the road to success. And while he began his FAMU jour-

ney in the ‘60s and ‘70s, he reminded the millennials that times have changed but the essential business principles and practices have not.

Thompson vividly recounted his college days with the “gigantic afro” and trying to find a suitable major. The students smiled and laughed because the story was all too familiar. He went further by saying it was important to adapt and assimilate. Thompson said some degree of compromise was necessary to be successful. So he

Donald L. Dowridge Jr. (motivational speaker/author/ actor) for the last 24 years has written 13 books, and appeared in the HBO Series The Wire, the NBC show Seaquest, and various other hit television shows. In the last seven years, he has brought back to life one of Black America’s greatest orators, author, journalist, and government official, Frederick Douglass. Douglass was truly a remarkable American in the 19th century, and Dowridge’s one man show will leave his audience entertained, educated, and excited.

He is a Tampa resident; born and raised into a difficult childhood in Baltimore, and he has overcome tremendous hardships to share his special gifts to the world. As America celebrates Black History Month, Dowridge would be honored to appear at your event this month or anytime during the year! Thousands have been motivated and inspired by Dowridge’s performances, which has left an indelible mark of courage and pride as a Black American hero.

His show is an opportunity to learn about one of the most eminent human and civil rights leaders of his time, and any good actor will tell you that the

as Frederick Douglass on You Tube (dld282002), Facebook (Donald L Dowridge Jr. as Frederick Douglass), Google www.dldenterprises.org.

Directly contact us at (813) 3945874 or email us at dld282002@yahoo.com, and we welcome all inquiries.

versify the technology industry.

A student asked, “What sales lesson did you learn?” Thompson replied, “Don’t take no for an answer, but know when to back off.” This was an important lesson for African American business students. The discussion spanned the gambit. For example; when developing a model and business plan, be sure to emphasize how the product is going to materialize.

Have a passion for what you are doing and invest in people.

Invest in people, because their success breeds success. And finally, listen to your mentors.

John W. Thompson praised his FAMU mentors for helping to guide him along the way.

perfect role finds the actor. This one man show was divinely given to him and it will keep you on the edge of your seat.

His portrayal of Douglass is authentic, and will have you clapping for more, because Black history is truly a lesson in American history. Once Dowridge is in character, you feel as if you are reliving Frederick Douglass’s life.

Now is the time to call for more information and discuss pricing and the particulars about your event. Based on your budget, Dowridge can expand the show to include other components and more Black History characterizations, and even include a Black Museum (DLD Traveling Black History Museum). DLD Enterprises is a one stop Black History Company, which is comprehensive and complete, and is a family show for all ages. Dowridge is available to appear at Organizations, Schools, Universities, Churches, Youth Groups, Major Events and Theaters.

We invite you to see more about Donald L. Dowridge, Jr.

Your 50X The Cash helped Richard multiply his opportunities.

FOR MORE INFORMATION PLEASE CONTACT: Rev. Darryl Baxter 305-978-7100 or Pastor Nettie B. Davis 305-409-4655

E V E RY

P L AY

I S

F O R

Since 1997, the Florida da Lottery L has been creating a brighter future ure for Florida through the Bright Futures Scholarship rship Program. Through e than tha an 725,000 students this scholarship, more ortunity to attend a Florida have earned the opportunity college. The education n they th hey have received is bac ck to the community allowing them to give back conomy, while helping to and boost Florida’s economy, fund the next generation ion of Florida’s students. re you y play, the more So remember, the more Florida wins.

flalottery.com Must be 18 or older er to p play..

Play responsibly. © 2016 Florida Lottery ry

E D U C A T I O N.

Page 4 • February 25 - March 2, 2016

www.thewestsidegazette.com

Westside Gazette

Community Digest

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

Concert

Dillard Center for the Arts presents its Fourth Annual Shades of Blue, Gospel Celebration featuring the Dillard High King’s Kids Choir with special guest, Kathy McClary, Sunday, Feb. 28, 2016 at 4 p.m., at Dillard Center for the Arts, 2501 N.W. 11 St., Fort Lauderdale, Fla. Tickets can be obtained at www.dillardhigh.com/ showtime or at the door on the day of the concert, for more info call (754) 322-0838.

Job Fair

Event

Festival

"The State of Black Philanthropy in Miami", Thursday, Feb. 25, 2016 at 6 p.m., at the Little Haiti Cultural Center, 212 N.E. 59 Terr. Call (305) 371-2711 or visit www.miamifoundation.org

"One Heritage" Black History Month Festival, Saturday, Feb. 27, 2016 at 4 p.m., at Arcola Lakes Park, 1301 N.W. 83rd St. Free admission. Call (305) 694-2779 or visit www.miamidade.gov/baab.

Workshop

Event

Annual Melton Mustafa Jazz Festival & Workshop, Thursday, Feb. 25- 28, 2016 at various venues and times. Visit www.meltonmustafa.com or www.fmuniv.edu.

Celebration featuring the COGASOC Sunshine Acapella Choir, Saturday, Feb. 27, 2016 at 6 p.m, at 2299 N.W. 62nd St., Call (786) 222-4760.

Musical

Forum

Theater South presents "I Have A Dream" A Broadway Musical, Friday, Feb. 26. 2016 from 9:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m., at the AmericanAirlines Arena, 601 Biscayne Blvd., Miami. visit www.theatresouthatlanta.org

2016 Americas Forum, Sunday, Feb. 28 thru Tuesday, March 1, 2016 in Miami Fla. Register Now: https://[protectus.mimecast.com/s/ LL2NBXix2JNuY

Luncheon Event Northwest Gardens V Job Fair, Monday, Feb. 29, 2016, 704 N.W. 12 Ave., Fort Lauderdale, Fla. This new construction site will offer many positions. Section 3 & Section 8 residents encouraged to attend.

Spoken Word with Marlon "POW Ferdinand and Simply Seth, Friday, Feb. 26. 2016 at 7 p.m., at Precision Barber Club, 9703 N.E. Second Ave. Call (786) 507-1827.

" So we must straighthen our backs and work for our freedom. A man can't ride you unless your back is bent."

--Dr.Martin Luther King,Jr. ALL UP IN MY BUSINESS VENDOR SHEET The Pride Center at Equality Park’s Kiki Project Schubert Building-Main Hall Saturday, Feb. 27, 2016 from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.

Name:___________ E-Mail Address:_______________ Telephone:____________ Cell:_________ Name of Business: Business Type: _______________ For more information contact (954) 463-9005, 308 or 309 Please Email completed form to kikiproject@pridecenterflorida.org Please contact us with any special requests.

The Broward County Chapter of the National Alumni Chapter of Bethune-Cookman University cordially invites you to attend the Enter to Learn….

Depart to Serve Annual Awards Luncheon, Saturday, March 5, 2016 at 12 noon, at Urban League of Broward, 560 N.W. 21 Ave., Fort Lauderdale, Fla. Honoring BCU Alumnus who have exemplified service and ideals of Dr. Mary McLeod Bethune.

For additional info call G. Dudley at (954) 309-1496.

EDUCATION MATTERS Every Child Deserves a Chance to Succeed.

Forum

The T.J. Reddick Bar Association, Incorporated will host a know your rights forum, Saturday, March 5, 2016 at 10 a.m., at New Mount Olive Baptist Church, 400 N.W. Ninth Ave., Fort Lauderdale, Fla. Panelists will engage in a discussion panel to address numerous criminal justice issues that affect and are important to the community. For additional info contact Ruby Green at (954) 701-9782 or Dione Trawick at (954) 253-6646.

Luncheon

Zeta D.O.V.E. Foundation of Zeta Phi Beta Sorority, Incorporated Fort Lauderdale Chapter Luncheon Celebrating Finer Womanhood, theme: “Honoring High Achieving Women” in education, politics, community action, women’s health and the world of Zeta on Saturday, March 5, 2016, from 12 noon to 3 p.m. at Sheraton Hotel (Griffin Road/1-95) . For more info or tickets call (954) 258-3903.

Conference Calling all pastors, church leaders, prospective leaders, and entrepreneurs, you are invited to attend the 2016 Pastors and Leaders Conference, “The Power of a Thought”, Wednesday, March 16 – Friday, March 18, 2016 at 7:30 p.m., at Judah Worship Word Ministries, International, 4441 W. Sunrise Blvd., Fort Lauderdale, Fla. Bishop W.L. Mitchell, senior pastor and overseer. For more call info (954) 791-2999.

Free Tax Preparation

Create It at Broward County Library" During Teen Tech Week 2016

You could qualify for FREE tax preparation and save up to $150!

What to bring: * Original Social Security Cards for you, your spouse, and/ or dependants or social security number verification letter issued by SSA * Government issued photo identification for you and your spouse * From W-2, W-2G, 1099-R from all employers * Interest and dividend statements from banks (Form 1099) * Day care expenses with the providers' EIN and amount paid (If applicable) * Bank routing numbers and account numbers for direct deposit, blank check * A copy of last year's tax return * Any other relevant information about income and expenses * Health insurance documents: 1095A, 1095B or 1095C. If you qualified for an exemption through the Health Insurance Marketplace, bring the Exemption Certificate Number (ECN).

Services at the Urban League of Broward County are as follows: Tuesday, from 3:30 to 7 p.m.

Wendesday, from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. Friday, from 3 p.m. to 7 p.m.

Also, the second Saturday of the month (March 12 and April 9) from 9 a.m to 12 p.m., at the Urban League of Broward County, Community Empowerment Center, 560 N.W. 27 Ave., Fort Lauderdale, Fla.

BROWARD COUNTY, FL Teens are invited to get creative at Broward County Library during Teen Tech Week, celebrated this year from March 612, 2016.

-Tuesday, March 1, 2016 – Teen Tech Tuesday: Learn the specifics of apps on both Android and iOS devices, 6 to 7 p.m. at Lauderdale Lakes Library, 3580 W. Oakland Park Blvd., Lauderdale Lakes. Call for more info (954) 357-8650 -Saturday, March 5 – Wii Gaming Tournament, 130 at 3:30 p.m., at Northwest Branch Library, 1580 N.W. Third Ave., Pompano Beach, FL. Call for info (954) 357-6599 -Monday, March 7 – Hour of Code Open Lab, ages 13-18, 4:30 to 6 p.m., Alvin Sherman Library at Nova Southeastern University, 3100 Ray Ferrero, Jr. Blvd., Fort Lauderdale, FL. Call more info (954) 262-5477 -Monday, March 7 - Snap Circuits and Robots, 6 to 7:30 p.m., at Carver Ranches Library, 4735 SW 18 Street, West Park, FL. Call for more info (954) 357-6245 -Monday, March 7 and Friday, March 11 - Teen Event, 4 to 5 p.m., Main Library, 100 S Andrews Ave., Fort Lauderdale, FL. Call for more info (954) 357-7444 -Tuesday, March 8 - Texting Competition, 4 to 6 p.m., at North Lauderdale Saraniero Library, 6901 Kimberly Blvd., North Lauderdale, FL. Call for more info (954) 357-6660

www.thewestsidegazette.com

Opinion

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

“Murdering our babies”

By Pastor Rasheed Z Baaith “For death is come up into our windows, and is entered into our palaces, to cut off the children from without, and the young men from the streets.”

There is much I would like to write about that’s happening around us: the support of Donald Trump by evangelical Christians, Hilary Clinton believing that Black people are in thrall to her for the rest of her political life, or the fight between the FBI and Apple over what’s more important, our liberties or our lives or the sudden alarm over teenage heroin use now that the drug is sweeping suburbs all over America. All are news worthy and need notice but none of these things are as important or critical to me as the ongoing murder of our children. Even worse is the community’s complicity in these killings by saying nothing.

In South Florida over the past 12 months, over 100 children have been shot and at least 24 have died. The latest victim is first grader, six-yearold King Carter, who was caught in a

February 25 - March 2, 2016 • Page 5

Westside Gazette

cross fire last week as he played in front of his home. They have not yet caught those who shot and killed him.

There are tremendous difficulties in apprehending those responsible for crimes like the murder of a child like King Carter. But what compounds the situation even more is the refusal of our communities to cooperate with the police and help find those accountable. We want to believe that it is better to assist those who kill us than those who protect us. We believe it is better to betray those killed than give information on those who did the killing.

It is not just our young people who hold to this “code of the streets” or repeat the mantra that “snitches get stitches” but older people in our community as well. When will we understand that we have to help ourselves stop the crime in our communities?

Are we saying no crime is too horrendous, no transgression too great, no

Does any presidential candidate“deserve” the Black vote?

Julianne Malveaux says that Black people must vote for politicians based on their track record and also on their promises and hold them accountable to those promises.

By Julianne Malveaux, NNPA News Wire Columnist Michelle Alexander, the brilliant author of The New Jim Crow, writes in The Nation – that Hillary Clinton does not “deserve” the Black vote. She makes a strong case. She reminds us that the Bill Clinton administration yielded a draconian crime bill and welfare “deform” (I call it “deform” instead of reform because the Clinton changes made a bad system worse) that demonized poor women. While Bill and Hillary Clinton are two different people, Alexander uses Hillary quotes to illustrate the ways she supported her husband’s policies.

Alexander is right to say that Hillary does not deserve the Black vote. She declines to endorse Bernie Sanders, though, describing him as “the lesser of two evils.” To his credit, says Alexander, Sanders opposed welfare deform and has been a far more vocal and aggressive critic of banks than Hillary. But Alexander says he still doesn’t get “it” around issues of racial justice, and notes that both he and Hillary supported the Iraq war.

I’m intrigued by the concept of “deserving” a vote. From my perspective, Bernie doesn’t deserve it, Hillary doesn’t deserve it, and none of the motley crew of Republican candidates deserves it. No Democrat or Republican has ever deserved the Black vote.

The dictionary defines deserve as, “to do something or have or show qualities worthy of (reward or punishment).”

(Read full story on www.thewestsidegazette.com)

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

spilling of blood is too much? Is there any offense we find unbearable?

At a rally organized by Community Activist Tangela Sears last Sunday evening, little King Carter’s community turned out in large numbers. In addition, Miami Dade School Superintendent Alberto Carvalho, State Attorney Katherine Fernandez Rundle, Miami Dade Police Director Juan Perez, and Miami Dade Commission Chairperson Jean Monestine all were present to support the parents. From reports, everyone felt the same way.

Their sadness was mixed with anger and frustration.

Carvalho as usual had a plan. First, he believes the code of silence has to be broken, next witness protection legislation, then community policing, more funding for after school programs and there is an obvious need for more severe penalties for those using guns

near schools. His recommendation is 100 percent on point.

Here is the real tragedy: The little boy was shot in broad daylight but just like in the movies and television, no one saw anything, no one heard anything, at least not anything that would help solve this senseless homicide and no one knows anything. No one seems to care this baby had his life snatched away before he had even begun to live it.

And no doubt those who did the snatching are little more than children themselves; caught up in this vortex of violence, bloodshed, retaliation and more violence. They are likely to become victims themselves. Then it will be their turn to have the community’s help in letting their killers wander the streets, slowly driving by and looking to kill once more and once more...

Expanding voter rights not discussed at the never talks about how Presidential debates he is going to help fix

By Roger Caldwell Voting is the cornerstone of our Democracy in the United States, but there has been very little discussion in the presidential debates. It is very easy to blame the moderators in each debate, and the candidates seem to be concerned with other problems in the country. But the process of voting rights is being suppressed in many states across the country, and it appears that the Republican red states are winning.

“The North Carolina State House passed a bill requiring identification to vote, but prohibiting the use of private college IDs as an acceptable form of identification. It’s the first of several new laws the state legislature is trying to enact to restrict voting rights for people of color, as well as young, disabled, and elderly votes. The forces behind these voter suppression bills aren’t taking any time off. They are busy in North Carolina—and in other states – trying to make it harder for people in our communities to exercise their constitutional right to vote,” says Rev. Dr. William J. Barber II, president of the North Carolina NAACP. In 2016, the Republicans know they have a better chance to win the office of president of the United States when less people in the country vote. With 31 states having Republican governors, they are making it more difficult for voters to cast a ballot. These governors are enacting voter ID laws, shortening early voting, and requiring citizens to show a birth certificate or passport in order to register to vote.

As the presidential candidates (Democrat and Republican) speak about how they have a plan to fix every problem, it would be important and significant for them to discuss how they will expand voting rights. Senator Sanders is always talking about the terrible low percentage of Americans that vote in the elections, but he

this problem. It is a fact that the Republicans in this election want to suppress the vote, and they will make it harder for people of color, the young, and the senior citizens to vote.

President Obama won the election because there were more people of color, young people, senior citizens, and new voters who took pride, and showed up and voted. Now in 2016, it is important that the Republicans and Democrats candidates are challenged on how they plan to strengthen our Democracy by expanding voting rights. The news stations that hold the debates should have a component during each debate on just how they plan to expand voting rights.

In every state in America, the legislatures should be making it easier to vote, by making registering to vote more accessible, including online voter registration, and Election Day registration. Our voting laws should reflect this fundamental belief, that the ballot box should be accessible for all, and technology should improve the process. Public schools should be used to register voters, and expanding early voting by allowing citizens to vote at any polling location.

It is time for the presidential candidates to tell the truth about voting rights across the country. The presidential candidates should make voting a major issue in the campaign, and explain why the Republicans make it more difficult to vote. Our voting laws should profoundly expand voting rights and strengthen our Democracy.

Black Americans have protested and some died for the right to vote.

The country should be moving forward, but at times it appears that we are in reverse and moving backward.

Voting should not be a partisan issue, and both parties should be working together to expand voting rights to all Americans.

Don’t get too excited whenTrump attacks George W. Bush over Iraq Bill Fletcher says that listening to the rhetoric of candidates, such as Trump, “their U.S.A.” is a white, non-immigrant U.S.A., that is, the “white republic” of old.

By Bill Fletcher, Jr., NNPA News Wire Columnist Something weird happened on February 13th at the Republican debate in South Carolina. Donald Trump went after Jeb Bush over the record of his brother, former President George W. Bush. Trump attacked George W. Bush for the invasion of Iraq and for providing insufficient security for the U.S.A., as represented by the 9/11 terrorist attacks.

There are many liberals and progressives who were dumbfounded by his words, apparently never expecting commentary such as that to be mouthed by a Republican candidate for president. Many people at the debate were also surprised, because Trump was booed.

There are a few things to consider about this incident. The first is that, despite all of the evidence to the effect that the administration of George W. Bush lied us into a war with Iraq, there are still people, particularly in the Republican Party, who insist on believing that there was sufficient justification for an invasion that violated international law and precedent.

In other words, they will not let the facts get in the way of their opinions.

Such delusional thinking is always unsettling.

Second, within the Republican camp, and frequently out of the view of many liberals and progressives, there are those who are what might be described as “neo-isolationists.”

These neo-isolationists tend to believe that the USA should wall itself off from the rest of the world, in some cases literally—such as Trump’s call for a wall on the border with Mexico— but in most cases figuratively. This element believes that the USA should not engage the international community, but instead should leave everyone to their own devices.

Right-wing isolationists want “their U.S.A.” to be protected, and one must be clear as to what that means. When one listens to the rhetoric of candidates, such as Trump, “their U.S.A.” is a white, non-immigrant U.S.A., that is, the “white republic” of old. They see this white republic under threat by demographic changes, economic changes, and a changing world. For them, the U.S.A. —defined as a whitedominated U.S.A. —must withdraw from world affairs.

We were hearing elements of this in Trump’s rhetoric at the debate. It can be misleading because it sometimes sounds like what we, progressives, have said. But the reality is that Trump wants to retreat into a mythical past.

(Read full story on www.thewestsidegazette.com)

The Gantt Report Black political money

By Lucius Gantt Billions of dollars will be spent in 2016 by candidates seeking election to public offices.

Believe it or not, large sums of campaign contributions will come from wealthy Black individuals, predominately Black labor organizations, Black businesses, Black students and Black voters!

In more cases than not, Black contributions to political candidates don’t do a damn thing to help America’s Black residents, Black communities and Black voters!

Now, don’t twist it up. Contributing to political campaigns is every American’s prerogative. If you want to contribute your hard earned dollars to an elected office seeker, by all means write a politician a check.

When non-Blacks contribute money, they get something in return.

When Wall Street bankers contribute to campaigns they get reduced regulations, tax considerations, access to desired politicians, they get to stay out of jail for financial crimes they committed and, in some cases, they even get to write federal and state laws that benefit their industry.

Women campaign contributors get political attention to women’s issues.

Hispanic contributors get consideration regarding issues important to them like immigration. Gays that put money in political campaigns get changes in laws like same sex marriage laws.

What do Black people get? They get tricked, they get fooled, they get misled, they get bamboozled, they get jacked and, worst of all, they get politically punked!

There are some wealthy Black lawyers that contribute to every political candidate they can contribute to. The contributions are vast but the returns on those contributions are so small they could be described as minimal.

They get invitations to receptions, they get their names on campaign literature and if they are lucky they might get a wink and a smile from a political klansman, skin head or red neck!

They don’t get many government risk management legal opportunities and they don’t get special considerations from elected or appointed judges.

Organizations of Black laborers may give more money to political candidates than any other Black groups.

Longshoremen, government workers, hospitality workers and other groups of Black workers donate millions of dollars to political candidates in Presidential election years.

And when the election is over many of the candidates they contribute to vote to privatize government agencies and bust up organized labor efforts, they pass Right to Work Laws and the campaign contribution recipients do all they can to prevent or hinder labor groups from organizing.

This is what I think.

If Black people, Black organizations, Black social or fraternal groups, Black community groups, Black business groups chose to contribute, by all means give your money to politicians that ask you for it.

But contribute like you have some sense!

When white folks make large contributions to politicians, they earmark the money. In other words, if AFLCIO gives money to politicians they oftentimes demand that the politicians use union printers for their printed materials, they request that politicians hire people on staff that the white unions recommend, they request a seat at the table when politicians discuss or consider labor legislation.

You tell me, why can’t Black lawyers, Black business people and Black labor groups like the ILA, AFSCME, SEIU and others demand that the money they contribute go to Black printers, Black media companies, Black pollsters, Black caterers and to other Black political professionals?

I know you don’t like for me to write like this but it’s true. Black campaign contributors, Black politicians and Black people must work together politically and every other way to progress and to survive!

If it doesn’t hurt you to ask if a politician’s literature has a “union bug” on it, it shouldn’t be hard to ask a politician if he has Black workers on his campaign staff or if he has contracts with Black political vendors!

Stop contributing to political devils that refuse to spend money with Black businesses and political professionals!

Pick up a Black newspaper sometimes and see which politicians are buying ads in your media outlets and you will see more ads from the elephant than there are from the donkey.

The political parties and candidates that you endorse first and contribute to first are the same ones that put you last, hire you last, contract you last and respect you less!

(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.)

Page 6 • February 25 - March 2, 2016

Westside Gazette

www.thewestsidegazette.com

www.thewestsidegazette.com

Westside Gazette

February 25 - March 2, 2016 • Page 7

Reclaiming our communities: Take action for Flint, a people’s project for self-sufficiency WASHINGTON, DC -- The slow poisoning of Flint residents through the contaminated municipal water system has people outraged. As the nation

watches, feelings range from mass powerlessness to longing to “do something” crisis of contaminated water in Flint Michigan has poisoned thousands of mainly African-American residents.

Around the world people are outraged. While the govern-

ment has been slow and ineffective in its response to the needs of Flint residents, the organization, Let’s Buy Black 365, has forged an empowering approach to lend support and to invite individuals and organizations to join this movement.

Let’s Buy Black 365, a national movement to empower

Black communities through Black individual civic action and business development has partnered with companies and organizations to usher in a sustained solution for Flint.

LetsBuyBlack365, Abibitumi Kasa, The National Association of Black Psychologists, Freedom Paper Company, Imperial Water, and Power In One

March of Dimes commemorates Black History Month Seeks to raise awareness about racial disparities in preterm birth in Florida community, but this truly is a concern of ours year-round,” said MAITLAND, FL — In honor of February as Black Dr. Karen Harris, Chair of the Program Services Committee for History Month, an annual celebration of the rich history, the Florida Chapter of the culture and contributions of the March of Dimes. “There are no African-American community, definitive explanations as to the March of Dimes – the leader why prematurity affects this in mom and baby health – is group more often than others. raising awareness about the However, factors such as poor alarming disparity in prematurity rates between Black 13.4 percent, followed by Native Americans, 10.1 percent; whites, prenatal care, malnutrition, soinfants and those of other races. 9.3 percent; Asians, 9.3 percent; and Hispanics, 9.1 percent. cioeconomic status, genetics, According to the 2015 March Racial and ethnic disparities also occur in other birth outcomes, stress, and unhealthy habits of Dimes Florida Premature such as low birthweight and infant mortality. In 2014, Black in- might all contribute to the stagBirth Report Card, released in fant deaths accounted for 40 percent of all infant deaths in gering data.”

According to the most recent November, the preterm birth Florida, as noted in the Florida Charts maintained by the Florida Health Disparities and Inrate (all live births less than 37 Department of Health. equalities Reports from the completed weeks gestation) was “Black History Month is a great opportunity to highlight the highest among Black infants at significant prematurity rates among the African-American Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), in the years 2006 to 2010 the preterm birth rate for black infants decreased by 8 percent; however, it still remained approximately 60 percent higher than that of white infants. The CDC also reports that Black infants have had the highest risk for preterm birth since at least 1981, the year when comparable data on gestational age became available.

In 2015, the March of Dimes unveiled a plan to focus more attention and resources on high population and/or high-burden areas with the goal of reducing the nation’s preterm birth rate to 5.5 percent by 2030. The “Prematurity Campaign RoadPink goes red. map”, presented by former US Surgeon General Regina M. Benjamin, outlines specific interventions health care providers and officials can take to prevent preterm birth.

March of Dimes Florida Chapter is involved with many organizations that target minority groups, such as the African-American fraternity Alpha Phi Alpha, Inc. and its sister sorority Zeta Phi Beta, Inc., whose Stork’s Next program seeks to increase the prevention of birth defects and infant mortality among Black women and to promote healthy behaviors during pregnancy.

About the March of Dimes Wrapped in red.

The March of Dimes works to improve the health of babies Submitted by Carolyn H. Event for a Cause”. The event Federated Women’s Club on by preventing birth defects, included line dancing for cardio, Monday, Feb. 15. It was an exWashington food to fuel the body and fel- citing day of activities, which premature birth and infant Ivy Leaf Reporter lowship with over 100 parti- included movement exercises, mortality. The March of Dimes In partnership with the A- cipants. The focus of the event crafts, games and prizes. Each is the leading nonprofit merican Heart Association was to promote heart health by of the Northwest Federated organization for pregnancy (AHA), Alpha Kappa Alpha So- maintaining an active lifestyle and baby health. For more than rority, Incorporated, Zeta Rho in order to combat heart disease. Women’s Club senior citizens 75 years, moms and babies Omega Chapter, exchanged The AHA representative, Jes- received a red shawl or red have benefited from March of their PINK for RED in the “Pink sica Lodispoto, provided a brief throw blanket as a part of our Dimes research, education, Goes Red” community impact overview of heart disease and seasonal wrap initiative.

Upcoming Zeta Rho Omega vaccines, and breakthroughs. day event for Heart Health its risk factors. Feb. 1st marked month on Feb. 5, 2016 at Mount the 13th year for the AHA “Go events include our annual For the latest resources and inHerman AME Church Multi- Red for Women” movement to “Strike for a Cure” bowling formation, visit help raise awareness of heart event that will be held on May marchofdimes.org purpose Center. or Annette Johnson-Hurry, disease being the number one 14, 2016, proceeds to support nacersano.org. Find us on President of the Zeta Rho O- killer of women.

Alzheimer’s disease and the Facebook at Our Family Strengthening mega Chapter and Gail Bouie, Senior Citizens of the North- @marchofdimesflorida, Twitter chairman of the Health Pro- committee, chaired by Barbara motions along with the com- Lumpkins also hosted a “Wrap- west Federated Women’s Club. at @marchofdimesfl, and visit us at Instagram at mittee and chapter members ped in Red” event for the senior Please www.zetarhoomega.org planned a “Pink Goes Red ~ citizens of the Northwest @marchofdimesflorida.

Clothing, have unified in the spirit of collective work and responsibility to bring water,

bathroom tissue, and other essential supplies to support Flint.

These Black-owned businesses and organizations each

have a core policy, to support Black communities, by Black people both domestically and globally. Now they are joining

the contaminated Flint River source, has left thousands sick, dying, and in distress.

Recent reports indicate that Governor Synder made his decision knowing that residents faced the endangerment of toxicity in the river water and ignored cries for help that followed immediately after. The environmental racism at play Rather than wait for Snyder and his constituents to “clean up their act”, Let’s Buy Black 365 is providing a self-sufficient and proactive solution to address

the concerns of Flint.

Let’s Buy Black 365’s mobilization of African Americans across the country is a call to be both individually and collectively responsive and accountable to all Black communities.

“We intend to show how empowered our communities can be when we join together to help one another,” said a Let’s Buy Black 365 organizer. Go to Let’s Buy Black 365.com, click

on Take Action For Flint and support Black-owned water suppliers and bathroom tissue manufacturers to get quality products to Flint. Read more about this initiative and the give campaign to measure sustained Black solutions for Flint at www.LetsBuyBlack365.com.

San Francisco’s top HIV Doc aids Fulton County, Ga., in launching PrEP Clinic— provided training

Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority Sorority,, Incorporated Zeta Rho Omega Chapter ink Goes Red’ Heart Health Month Chapter,, ‘P ‘Pink

1-800-270-9794

forces through Let’s Buy Black 365’s “Take Action For Flint 365” campaign to bring Black solutions to Black communities

services to Flint, Mich.

“By tapping into the resources of our own communities nationally we can begin to move away from dependency on agencies and government offices that do not show accountability to our communities. Self-sufficiency in the Black community is the best solution,” said a Let’s Buy Black 365 spokesperson and activist Nataki Kambon. Flint is economically depressed and has a 57 percent African-American population. Governor Snyder’s deliberate decision to switch to

B.T.W, HIGH SCHOOL FOUNDATION RECEICES $3,000 SCHOLARSHIP DONATION FROM DADE COUNTY FEDERAL CREDIT UNION — George G. Joseph, president & CEO of the Dade County Federal Credit Union (DCFCU) has announced the donation of two $1,500 scholarships for graduating seniors of Booker T. Washington Senior High School in Overtown, Miami. The donation was made to the B.T.W. High School Foundation (the Foundation) and accepted by the Foundation’s President & CEO, John D. Glover, Ph.D. DCFCU has been an annual $1,500 scholarship donor to the Foundation since its founding in 2003. When asked why DCFCU was doubling its scholarship support this year Mr. Joseph responded. “The scholarship needs of B.T.W. graduates are considerable and the Foundation has in place an excellent program of selecting scholarship recipients and mentoring them over the four year college period.” Pictured in the photo (l to r): is George Joseph, president and CEO of DCFCU; Annie Wilkinson, executive vice president, DCFCU; Walter Perkins, treasurer, BTW High Foundation; and John Glover, president and CEO of the Foundation.

SISTRUNK PARADE & FESTIVAL Saturday, February 27, 2016 Parade | 9:00 a.m.

Sistrunk Boulevard from Lincoln Park east to Northwest Ninth Avenue

Festival | 10:30 a.m. - 7:00 p.m.

Sistrunk Boulevard from Northwest Ninth to N.W. 12 Avenues The Sistrunk Parade and Festival returns to historic Sistrunk Boulevard on Saturday, February 27. The free event kicks off with the inaugural All-Star Classic 5K run at 7:00 am. The parade departs from Lincoln Park at 9:00 am and travels east down historic Sistrunk Boulevard to NW 9 Avenue featuring marching bands, twirlers, step teams, classic cars, and decorative floats. Immediately following the parade, join us for the Sistrunk Festival featuring live bands and outstanding entertainment from Jimmie “Bo” Horne with N2Nation; Jon Saxx; Brandon Williams (aka Urban Mystic); Con Funk Shun; and T-Soul!

Flanked by veteran California warriors in the fight against HIV/AIDS, Fulton County Board of Commissioners Chairman John Eaves and the leadership of the County’s Health Services Department announced new elements in the battle against the disease. Dr. David Holland, chief clinical officer of the Communicable Disease Division, announced the expansion in the recently opened PrEP Clinic.

PrEP, the acronym for preexposure-prophylaxis, is a regimen or strategy that includes taking one pill a day to keep from getting HIV. It is highly effective when taken properly— people who use PrEP must commit to taking the drug every day and seeing their health care provider for follow-up every three months. PrEP is strongly recommended for people in high risk groups—men who have sex with men, women whose partners may have bisexual sex and persons with multiple sex partners. The really good news—manufacturer Gilead Sciences is making PrEP available at NO COST to those who need it but are unable to pay.

Georgia ranks second and Atlanta fifth in the rate of new HIV diagnoses, according to the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.

Particularly troublesome, noted Chairman Eaves is the fact that the highest rate of new infections is among the African-American males who have sex with males (MSM) in the 13-24 age group. Eaves told the audience of some 50 stakeholders to urge political leaders and school officials to get the word out about PrEP. San Francisco General Hospital HIV specialist Dr. Oliver Bacon

For details: 754-779-4376 | www.sistrunkfestival.org

Save Water.

Win $1000.

Register Today.

said he often sees patients who test positive, but who would not have contracted the virus had they known about and used PrEP. Next to trying to prevent HIV with PrEP comes treatment for persons who do test positive.

Rapid Entry is the strategy to get anyone who tests positive into treatment within 72 hours.

Opt-out is making sure everyone who comes to a Fulton Health Center for any service is offered an HIV test. The client doesn’t have to take one, but is made aware testing is available.

Persons interested in learning more about prevention regimens or HIV treatment can call or visit the PrEP Clinic, Aldredge

Leisha McKinley-Beach, David Holland and John Eaves at the opening of the new Fulton County PrEP Clinic.

Health Center, 99 Jesse Hill Jr. Drive SE, Atlanta, Ga. 30303 – (404) 613-4708 Fulton County is an equal

opportunity employer encouraging diversity. If you need reasonable modifications due to a disability, including commun-

ications in an alternate format, please contact (404) 613-1204.

For TDD/TYY or Georgia Relay Service Access, dial 711.

Nor owar d County (FL) Chap s, ortth Br Bro ard Chaptter of The Link Links, Incor por at ed celebr at es National Hear h Incorpor porat ated celebrat ates Heartt Mont Month

The Links Submitted by JoeAnn Fletcher North Broward County (FL) Chapter of The Links, Incorporated kicked off their celebration of Healthy Heart Month on Wednesday, Feb. 3, 2016, in partnership with Margate Middle School, the Crockett Foundation and Aspira afterschool program by bringing the Colgate Bright Smiles, Bright Futures mobile resource center to Margate Middle School. More than 50 students were provided free oral exams and educational materials on the importance of good oral hygiene. Research studies have shown that people with moderate or advanced gum disease are more likely to have heart disease than those with healthy gums.

In keeping with the impor-

through the leadership of 14,000 professional women in 281 chapters located in 41 states, the District of Columbia and the Commonwealth of the Bahamas providing programs that eliminate disparities by reducing barriers to service through advocacy and education and support for the maintenance of good health and the elimination of chronic health disparities. Everyone is encouraged to take care of their heart by getting an annual checkup, getting eight hours sleep, stop smoking, eating more fruit and less fruit juice and sugary foods and exercising even if only for 30 minutes a day of walking, running, yoga and bike riding.

tance of Heart Health Month, members of North Bro-ward County chapter also hosts a Red Dress Tea for senior citizens and provide healthy heart tips to more than 100 “Sassy Senior Saints” of New Mount Olive Baptist Church and the Broward County Federated Women’s Club in Fort Lauderdale.

Chapter president Earlene Striggles Horne stated, “We are so pleased to be a part of Margate Middle School and to partner with the Crockett Foundation and Aspira. We hope that our impact will reach beyond the students we are working with and positively affect the entire family with the information the students are able to pass on.”

The Links, Incorporated is committed to making a difference in the lives of others

A Collaboration of Local Governments.

Don’t forget: $100 rebates for WaterSense® toilets.

Homes. Businesses. Nonprofits.

Pre-approval required.

Page 8 • February 25 - March 2, 2016

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

Church Directory

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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.

"Historically the First Church in the City of Tamarac!”

Rev. Dr. Ileana Bosenbark, Senior Pastor WEEKLY SERVICES & EVENTS SUNDAY Worship Service (Communion 1st & 3rd 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.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Mount Calvary Baptist Church

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

Reverend Anthony Burrell, Pastor SCHEDULE OF SERVICES SUNDAY

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

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

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

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

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

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

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.mtzionmissionarybapt.com

Dr. James B. Darling, Jr., Pastor/Teacher WORSHIP SERVICES Sunday Worship Service .............................................................................. 8:00 & 11:00 a.m.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

To Have Y our Chur ch placed in our Your Church Church Directory call us TToday oday -- (954) 525-1489

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

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

Faith United Church of Christ 6201 NW 57 Street Tamarac, FL 33319 954-721-1232 uccfaith@bellsouth.net faithbroward.org

www.thewestsidegazette.com

Westside Gazette

SERVICES

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

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

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

Obituaries James C. Boyd Funeral Home JACKSON Funeral services for the late Dorcie Mae Boston-Jackson - 89 were held Feb. 20 at Mount Zion AME Church with Rev. George Hardy officiating. Interment: Forest Lawn Memorial Gardens (Central).

SCOTT Funeral services for the late Robertha Lee Scott - 85 were held Feb. 20 at James C. Boyd’s Memorial Chapel Apostle Jimmie L. Butler officiating.

McWhite's Funeral Home GRIFFIN Funeral services for the late John Henry Griffin - 82 were held Feb. 20 at First Baptist Church Piney Grove with Rev. Dr. Derrick J. Hughes officiating. Interment: Sunset Memorial Gardens.

JONES Funeral services for the late Kenneth Nathaniel Jones - 83 were held Feb. 18 at McWhite’s Funeral Home Chapel with Rev. John Roker officiating. Interment: Sunset Memorial Gardens.

OROZCO Funeral services for the late Glen Paul Orozco were held at

McWhite’s Funeral Home Chapel.

SIMMONS Funeral services for the late Robert Simmons, Jr. - 77 were held Feb. 20 at Mount Nebo Missionary Baptist Church with Rev. Kito March, Sr officiating. Interment: Sunset Memorial Gardens.

STANLEY Funeral services for the late Cynthia Stanley -62 were held Feb.20 at McWhite’s Funeral Home Chapel with Rev. H. Calvin Haralson officiating.

Roy Mizell & Kurtz Funeral Home BROWN Funeral services for the late Pearline Hudson Brown -82 were held Feb. 20 at New Hope Baptist Church with Rev. Ricky Scott officiating. Interment: Sunset Memorial Gardens.

BRYANT Funeral services for the late Merline Bryant –78 were held Feb 20 at Roy Mizell & Kurtz Worship Center with Pastor James B. Darling, Jr. officiating. Interment: Sunset Memorial Gardens.

KENNEDY Funeral services for the late Arlander Kennedy - 92 were held Feb. 20 at New Mount Olive

WORSHIP SERVICES 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.

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!”

KIDS TALK ABOUT GOD What is the lesson of Daniel in the lions’ den?

By Carey Kinsolving and friends “I think it teaches me that God is going to fix all of my problems, even the ones that I think will ‘eat me up’!” says Hillary, age 10. “Still, I know that, like Daniel, I must remain faithful to the Lord.”

Problems do have a way of eating our lunch, especially when we try to handle them with our own strength. In this case, Daniel was supposed to be lunch for the lions, but God had other plans.

“The lesson is to keep your mouth shut and to trust in God in every way and every day,” says Elizabeth, 11.

Is this the lesson from the lions’ perspective?

Even though Daniel was one of three governors in the MedoPersian Empire, he didn’t protest against the law that prohibited him from praying to God for 30 days. He quietly went about his routine of praying three times a day on his knees with his windows open toward Jerusalem.

Andrew, 8, says we should “always pray to God, even if you will be punished.”

According to the book by his Baptist Church name, Daniel “prayed and with Dr. Marcus gave thanks before his God, as D. Davidson ofwas his custom since early ficiating. Interdays,” (Daniel 6:10). No wonment: Sunset der Daniel distinguished himMemorial Garself as a young man.

“Sometimes, God will not dens. answer your prayers, but that does not mean he does not love MOSLEY you,” says Adriane, 9. “He just Funeral serdoes not think it is time to do vices for the late what you ask sometimes.”

David Mosley God always answers the 51 were held prayers of a righteous person, Feb. 20 AT Roy but not always in the way we expect. Would God be any less Mizell & Kurtz powerful or compassionate if Worship Center with Pastor James B. Darling, Jr he had not shut the mouths of the lions? officiating. Interment: Sunset MeMany Christians were eaten morial Gardens. alive by lions in the Roman Colosseum. Their testimony in death chipped away at the reNESBITT sistance of those who watched.

Funeral serJenny, 7, says, “The king vices for the late learned that he needs to learn Benny J. Nesa big lesson and a good one.” bitt, Jr. - 52 King Darius signed a law were held Feb. that said he was the only god 20 at Roy Mizell anyone could petition for 30 days. After realizing it was a & Kurtz Funeral plot to get rid of Daniel, he Home. couldn’t change the law because this would violate a cusSMITH tom of the Medes and Persians.

Funeral serImmediately before casting vices for the late Daniel to the lions, he said, Ernestine “Your God, whom you serve Smith -59 were continually, he will deliver held Feb. 20 qt you.”

Judging from the king’s enLighthouse Worship Center Church of God suing decree after Daniel’s deIn Christ with Rev. Victor Ro- liverance, it appears he did learn a big lesson. bertson officiating. Interment: Sun(Read full story on set Memorial Gardens. www.thewestsidegazette.com)

www.thewestsidegazette.com

BUSINESS

Westside Gazette

February 25 - March 2, 2016 • Page 9

UNITY IN THE COMMUNITY DIRECTORY

OFFICE: (954) 733-7700 ext. 111 CELL: (754) 234-4485 4360 W. Oakland Park Boulevard Lauderdale Lakes, Florida 33313 ken@acclaimcares.com

24 Hour Good Neighbor Service Se habla espanol

Johnnie Smith, Jr Jr..

Enrolled Agent Tax Professional F ranchise T ax P rofessional *T ax P reparation *Accounting *P ayroll *Tax Preparation *Payroll 3007 W W.. Commercial Blvd., Suite 204 Fort Lauderdale, FL 33309 Tel. (954) 730-2226 - Fax: (954) 730-2036 Cell (954) 303-5779 johnnie.smith@hrblock.com www .hrblock.com www.hrblock.com

STS TAX SERVICES INC. in association with

954-786-0708 440 E. SAMPLE RD. #204 POMPANO FL, 33064

Payday lending supporters attack CFPB; top industry lenders face RICO charges Charlene Crowell says that during a recent House Financial Services committee hearing, House members and most panelists criticized the consumer pro-

Freeman - R.L. Macon Funeral Home "AN INSTITUTION

WITH A

SOUL"

RICHARD L. MACON LICENSED FUNERAL DIRECTOR NOTARY OWNER 738 DR. MARTIN LUTHER KING, JR. BLVD. POMPANO BEACH, FL 33060 (954) 946-5525

tection agency for proposing rules to rein in abusive practices in the payday loan market.

By Charlene Crowell, NNPA News Wire Columnist For years deceptive and predatory lenders have bilked millions of trusting consumers from their hard-earned monies, while consumer advocates have fought back for fair and transparent lending. On Feb. 11, 2016 another contentious round of exchanges on debttrap lending occurred on Capitol Hill. Unlike previous forums, however, this one came with an open bias.

A subcommittee of House Financial Services held a hearing named, “Short-term, Small Dollar Lending: the CFPB’s [Consumer Financial Protection Bureau] Assault on Access to Credit and Trampling of State and Tribal Sovereignty.”

With a title like that, the presumption of objectivity took a holiday. Committee members and most panelists criticized the consumer protection agency for proposing rules to rein in abusive practices in the payday loan market.

“I find it offensive that you would say that people aren’t smart enough to make decisions for themselves,” said Rep. Mia Love of Utah, believed to be the first Black representative in Congress from the state.

Subcommittee colleagues who spoke after Rep. Love ironically asked questions that suggested they did not understand how the payday loan industry works. For example, many talked about meeting the needs of the ‘unbanked’ when payday lenders do not make loans to these consumers.

(Read full story on www.thewestsidegazette.com)

Page 10 • February 25 - March 2, 2016

www.thewestsidegazette.com

Westside Gazette

Miami Heat: Don’t worry about hoops, get well soon Miami Dolphins: Is Ryan Tannehill going to become elite? right pieces around him in order is there left for Bosh to do in his By D’Joumbarey A. Moreau Chris Bosh to show it. career? Is it time that he leave

By D’Joumbarey A. Moreau

the game and work on his own health?

“Guy means so much to not only the Heat family but his personal family as well. Just a great guy, a professional, a great guy and for something like this to happen to him after he was cleared, it just sucks. It sucks big time. His health is the No. 1 care and obviously basketball comes secondary to what he’s going through right now.

When is enough, enough?

Two NBA championships, over 17,000 career points, being recognized as an All-Star every year since 2006 for a grand total of 11 times, an All-NBA selection, and being identified as the perfect prototypical championship stretch power forward. All of these accomplishments and accolades have fallen in Chris Bosh’s hands since he entered the league in 2003 as a freshman from Georgia Tech.

Bosh clearly has had a magnificent career up to this point in date. The awards he’s won would leave most of his peers jealous they didn’t get the opportunities he’s gotten. But it’s the passion that Bosh plays with. It’s the reason why he’s been able to have such a wonderful career. It’s also that same passion that drives Bosh today to continue to attempt to play basketball in spite of his ongoing medical condition with blood clots.

However, even though Bosh might be one of the most thoughtful, intelligent and passionate players in the game today, is it time for him to get more selfish? Should Bosh start thinking more about himself instead of his team and make sure that he’s healthy and able?

With all of the praise, love, attention from fans, and, more importantly, cementing his place in NBA history, what else

LEGAL NOTICES

FOR SALE

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.

Feb. 4, 11, 18, 25, 2016

NOTICE TO CONTRACTORS Florida Department of Transportation Project Bids will be received by the Tallahassee Office until 10:30 A.M. on Wednesday, March 30, 2016, for Proposal ID T4431.

The improvement consists of traffic signal update on SR 7 in Broward County.

This is a Business Development Initiative (BDI) project, and Certification of Qualification is not required. Budget Estimate $216,946.00. Complete letting advertisement information is available at http:/ /www.dot.state.fl.us/cc-admin/Lettings/ Letting_Project_Info.shtm or by calling (850) 414-4000.

Feb. 25, March 3, 2016

NOTICE TO CONTRACTORS Florida Department of Transportation Project Bids will be received by the Tallahassee Office until 10:30 A.M. on Wednesday, March 30, 2016, for Proposal ID T4432.

The improvement consists of traffic signal update on SR 834 in Broward County. This is a Business Development Initiative (BDI) project, and Certification of Qualification is not required.

Budget Estimate $417,562.00. 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.

Feb. 25, March 3, 2016

(Read full story on www.thewestsidegazette.com)

CONDO FOR SALE: By Owner 1 Bedroom, 1 Bath, Den, Kitchen, Living Room/Eat In Dine. Call (754) 423-8532 (Hawaiian Gardens) Apt. 109, First Floor. Asking $39,000.

Feb. 18, 25 and March 3, 2016

MISCELLANEOUS

There might not be another football player in South Florida that stirs up more of a reaction than the Miami Dolphins signalcaller Ryan Tannehill.

In the four years Tannehill has played in Miami, he’s never won a playoff game. He’s never had a winning season. He’s also never been mentioned with the 15 best quarterbacks in the league. In spite of all the lack of accomplishments he’s managed to have in his career, Tannehill draws the type of reaction from people around Miami that will leave you with a strong opinion.

A lot of people around the city don’t feel that Tannehill is an elite quarterback or he never will become one. However, on the opposite side of the spectrum, a lot of other people feel that Tannehill is on his way to becoming an elite quarterback but just needs the

Then you’ve got the people around the city who don’t know what to feel about Tannehill.

“I’ve made the statements about them [the coaches] babying him thus far through his career. It’s like he’s been handcuffed. I’ve played with Brett [Favre], I’ve played with Aaron [Rodgers], I’ve played with great quarterbacks. So, you can assess, and you can quickly tell if one has it or not.

(Read full story on www.thewestsidegazette.com)

www.thewestsidegazette.com

Westside Gazette

February 25 - March 2, 2016 • Page 11

FMU Lions take over Miami Gardens

FMU Ambassador Chorale floating down Northwest 42nd Avenue singing “We Shall Overcome”

By Tarvarious Haywood MIAMI GARDENS, FL-Marching bands, decorated

floats, student organizations and of course Mr. and Ms. Florida Memorial University took to the streets for the Florida

Memorial University 2016 Homecoming Parade. The parade started in front of Miami Carol City High on Northwest 183rd and ended on 42nd Avenue in front of Florida Memorial University.

Keith Roye, Mr. FMU, and member of Kappa Alpha Psi said “Being a student at Florida Memorial University for four years has been a journey. However, being a part of the Homecoming Parade this year was truly amazing. As Mr. Florida Memorial University, I was able to take part in the parade and see it in its entirety. This parade has set a trend for the university and has definite-ly built awareness for people who didn’t know about the school. The community was en-gaged and had a fantastic time, and it was indeed a wonderful time.”

The National Association of Black Journalists were also on hand to promote the newly released movie “The Race”.

Melvin White, director of the Ambassador Chorale, lead his ensemble in singing, “We Shall Overcome”. Christina Dixon, FMU Junior and a member of the Ambassador Chorale, stated that “It was good to see all of the organizations come together as well as the community to celebrate Florida Memorial’s Homecoming. As a part of the Ambassador chorale, it was a joy singing familiar songs as we paraded through the streets of Miami Gardens. This will be an event that will stand out in my collegiate experience.”

The University looks forward to doing more outreach with the community, and will continue to parade through the streets of Miami Gardens for years to come.

"We Are Not Makers of History.

We Are Made By History."

-- Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr.

www.thewestsidegazette.com Westside Gazette Healthy Mothers, Healthy Babies Coalition of Broward County, the City of Fort Lauderdale, and the Children’s Services Council announce Fourth annual 'Me and online at Healthy Mothers, Healthy My Dad Challenge Babies Coalition of Broward meandmydad4.eventbrite.com Page 12 • February 25 - March 2, 2016

FORT LAUDERDALE, FL --Saturday, March 5, 2016 from 10 a.m. - 2 p.m., Fourth Annual "Me and My Dad Challenge" at Joseph C. Carter Park in Fort Lauderdale.

To encourage fathers’ engagement in their children’s lives, Healthy Mothers, Healthy Babies partners with The City of Fort Lauderdale Parks and Recreation, Children’s Services Council of Broward County, Broward County Public Schools Early Education Program and Title I, Broward AWARE! Protecting OUR Children, City of Fort Lauderdale, the SWIMS Foundation, iHeart Media, 103.5 The Beat, OIC of South Florida and other organizations to make this a fun and informative event for the whole family.

Fathers with their children will

participate in an obstacle course, 50/50 father/child relay, basketball, baseball, hockey shootout, tricycle race and other exciting team building activities. Because drowning is the number one cause of death for children 0-5 years-old and to launch the Water Smart Broward Campaign, the event will offer information on drowning prevention and swimming in the aquatic park area.

Dads’ involvement in the lives of their children is one way to help them grow safe, healthy and nurtured; teaching ways to

be “Water Smart” will keep them from drowning.

Keynote speaker will be Luther Campbell “Uncle Luke” with entertainment from 103.5 The Beat host Papa Keith and Hip Hop Kidz. Other guest speakers like Emilio Benitez, President & CEO Childnet and Chair of Children’s Services Council, and other community leaders will be present to inspire the men to be great fathers and role models.

In addition, the event will feature a resource fair with a number of local organizations providing valuable information and giveaways to attendees.

To compete in the Challenge, participants must register

or call Healthy Mothers, Healthy Babies of Broward (954) 765-0550.

This event is free and open to the community. All male caregivers with children of all ages are welcome!

County is a tax exempt 501(c)(3) non-profit organization founded in 1987 dedicated to reducing infant deaths by strengthening families through a comprehensive approach to prenatal care, parenting, education and support services.

FAMU Supreme Court addresses voting role accountability for FAMU spring elections

By Ciera Campbell, FAMU Intern Writer The Florida Agricultural and Mechanical University 45th student senate held their first senate meeting post spring elections, in the Grand Ballroom on Monday, Feb. 22, 2016.

Students elected Justin Bruno and Devin Harrison to be their 2016-2017 Student Government Association President and Vice-Present. However, Chief Justice Tawn TybaTakeli announced to the gallery and student Senate that the Supreme Court will be investigating appeals submitted by their opponents Victor Crispin and Pernell Mitchell, II in regards to the College of Law precinct.

“There was a question of validity of the ballots based on the voter role, delivery and accountability methods from the College of Law,” Takeli said at the senate meeting.

“By the end of this week we will have a consensus on the validity of the ballots.”

The appeals accused Ashanti Jones, Student Bar Association president at the FAMU College of Law, of failing to abide by the election codes while acting in the capacity of precinct supervisor. Jones was accused of

not complying with chapter 602.2 which says “Each voting student must sign his/her name within the designated signature column for each specified Election Day.” Electoral Commissioner Anthony Cooper released a memorandum with supporting evidence of the appeal’s claims to the Supreme Court.

“All precincts under our supervision on the main-campus followed this procedure. We also sent them the Election code with the expectation that it would be read. Upon reading the Election Code those agreed to be responsible for the College of Law precinct should have ensured protocol was followed,” Cooper said.

With this infraction, if it is proven to be true, the statutes deem that voting must take

place again.

“If a precinct supervisor is in violation of the election code the supreme court has the authority to declare a special or new election or require that the Electoral Commission(er) receive no salary,” statutes said.

Chanelle Glover, former Deputy Electoral Commissioner urges that the Supreme Court abide by the election code and require for a new election to occur.

“It is only fair that a new election occurs. It is clear with the evidence that the College of Law did violate student body documents,” Glover stated.

The Student senate meets every Monday at 6 p.m. for more information regarding judicial branch, reports follow @famu_judicialbranch on Instagram