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NAACP President Cornell Brooks voted out Rescue me PLEASE! NAACP national board makes dramatic move to regain relevance

By Lauren Victoria Burke (NNPA Newswire Contributor) Why did the NAACP’s national board vote to part ways with their president, Cornell William Brooks? Several longtime members contacted by the NNPA Newswire were shocked to hear the news.

Brooks, 56, has served in the position since May 2014. Some NAACP insiders said that there was a lack of communication between the NAACP’s large board of directors and Brooks.

Others say that a lack of fundraising prowess was the reason.

On the day the board voted to end Brooks’ tenure as president (his current contract expires on June 30), NAACP Board Chairman Leon Russell announced that the 108 yearold organization is “re-tooling” and embarking on “an organization-wide refresh” in response to the “audacious challenges” in “today’s volatile political, media and social climates.”

During an interview with American Urban Radio Net-

works, Brooks was asked why he was being let go. He responded: “I can’t point to any substantive reason. What I can point to is this: the NAACP over the course of less than three years, is more visible, more vocal, growing in members, donors, presence in the courts and in communities across the country.”

Brooks continued: “We’ve had nine court victories against voter suppression in ten months. We not only demonstrated in Flint, we filed suit in Flint…online membership is up 87 percent and online paper membership is up seven percent.

Online donations are up 800 percent,” Brooks added. On May 21, Brooks was bombarded on Twitter with positive praise from well-wishers for his three years as NAACP President.

Brooks was also instrumental in spotlighting the damage President Donald Trump’s Attorney General Jeff Sessions will likely do to voting rights with a demonstration in Alabama that resulted in Brooks’ (Cont'd on Page 3)

Lord, how long wilt thou look on? Rescue my soul from their destructions, my darling from the lions. Psalm 35:17

By Bobby R. Henry, Sr. How difficult it must be to tread water weight down in an armored suit made of iron.

Struggling sometimes just to survive from our own selfimprisonments, let alone; the woes of this economy and under the current president can feel just as suffocating and the fight just as futile.

Being a minority business owner in general and a Black newspaper business owner in particular, we know firsthand the severity of wondering “which way to go.”

I feel for those who would succumb and throw in the towel after reading many of the newspaper articles and news programs following the antics of 45, seeing our world unravel on television reporting adversity after adversity.

How devastating it must be to lose your job, then your home and stumble into the emergency room to find out what you thought was a stomach ache in actually is a cancerous tumor the size of a baseball, coupled with ‘no insurance’.

(Cont'd on Page 3)

Lawson introduces first bill aimed to help small business leaders The Entrepreneurial Education Act would help emerging leaders get the training they need to expand operations and create jobs in underserved communities

Brooks served as president of the NAACP for three years.

This photo was taken during a 2016 meeting between civil right leaders and former Secretary of State Hillary Clinton.

(Freddie Allen/AMG/NNPA)

Fifth Annual South Florida Youth Summit kicks off with guests Roland Martin & Angela Rye

Dolphins Rookies score extra points in teaching Special Olympic Florida athletes. Rookie Vincent Taylor, #53, DT from Oklahoma State, assist special player with adjusting his equipment.

(Read full story on Page 9)

WASHINGTON, D.C. – Recently U.S. Rep. Al Lawson (FL-5) introduced his first bill in the 115th Congress. The Entrepreneurial Education Act aims to help train emerging leaders who are running businesses in economically disadvantaged communities. The bill would authorize the Entrepreneurial Education Initiative through the Small Business Administration which would provide resources and assistance to entrepreneurs.

The Emerging Leaders Initiative is a federal training program that specifically focuses on executives of businesses ready to expand operations in historically challenged communities. Executives receive inten-

Angela Rye, CNN Political Correspondent and Roland Martin, host of TV One's Daily Morning Show, discuss freely with audience the need for Black leadership.

(Photos credit: Adrian Freeman)

By Nichole Richards The 5th Annual South Florida Youth Summit, held May 18-20, kicked off with the adult only Cocktails & Conversations event with special guests Roland Martin, host of TV One’s Daily

Morning Show, and CNN Political Commentator and CEO of IMPACT strategies, Angela Rye. The event encouraged interactive discussion between community leaders, educators, civic leaders, and parents on tactics to empower youth to (Cont'd on Page 5)

Pleading Our Own Cause

Congratulations to the Westside Gazette Newspaper Salutes “The Greatest Mom in the World 2017” contest winners: Mrs. Judy Ellie, First Place Winner (l) and Mrs. Pearlie Nichols, Second Place Winner. Thank you to our sponsors: Betty’s Soul Food Restaurant, Broward Meats, Cal’s For Hair, Children’s Services Council, McWhites’ Funeral Home, Nicole’s Beauty Salon, Royal Bloom Florist, Tom Jenkins Bar-B-Q and Norman's Photoland.

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House votes to limit powers of first Black Librarian of Congress

By Lauren Victoria Burke (NNPA Newswire Contributor) In a vote of 378 to 48, the House passed legislation to take power away from the current Librarian of Congress, Dr. Carla Hayden.

The legislation, H.R. 1695, was authored by House Judiciary Chairman Bob Goodlatte (R-Va.) and ranking member John Conyers (D-Mich.), would limit the powers of the librarian. It is expected to pass the Senate and be signed into law by President Trump.

The bill makes the head of the Copyright Office, the Register of Copyrights, a presidential appointment that would have to be confirmed by the Senate, rather than an appointment by the Librarian of Congress, as it has been since 1870.

The bill also limits the position of Register of Copy-rights to a 10-year term.

The bill text reads, “This bill

amends federal copyright law to require the President, with the advice and consent of the Senate, to appoint a Register of Copyrights from a list of at least three individuals…” and, “The bill limits the term of office for the Register of Copyrights to 10 years, but the individual may be reappointed subject to the same requirements established in this bill.

The President may remove the Register of Copyrights from office and must notify both chambers of Congress of any such removal.”

According to the Library Journal, as President Obama considered his choice to fill the Librarian of Congress position in 2015, the Republicancontrolled U.S. Senate passed a bill to limit the term of that position to 10 years. “After [the bill] was approved in the House of Representa-tives,” President Obama signed it into law on Nov. 5,

2015.

The previous Librarian of Congress, James Billington, served in the position for 28 years.

President Barack Obama appointed Hayden the 14th Librarian of Congress on Feb. 24, 2016. She is the first African American to hold the position, as well as the first woman to be the Librarian of Congress, in the agency’s history. On March 23, legislation was introduced to block Hayden from appointing the next Register of Copy-

rights. That legislation passed the House on April 26.

Supporters of the bill argued that the legislation would help to modernize the Copyright Office and make it more accountable to Congress. Attempts to contact the office of Rep. John Conyers (D-Mich.) for details on why he authored H.R. 1695, were not answered. “This bill serves no purpose other than to take power away from the Librarian of Congress and give it to powerful lobbyists, who will have a major say in who runs

the Copyright Office,” wrote Michael Masnick on TechDirt.com on April 26. “It’s a bad bill, and it’s a gift to Hollywood.”

The entertainment industry pushed hard for the passage of H.R. 1695. It’s likely that the selection of the Librarian of Congress will be the focus of attention of the power of the entertainment lobby moving forward now that senators will play a role in confirmation.

(Read full story on www.thewestsidegazette.com)

Florida Supreme Court Justice - Peggy Quince keynote speaker for 'A Fathers’Affair' luncheon Carla Hayden was appointed the 14th Librarian of Congress by President Barack Obama on Feb. 24, 2016.

(Wikimedia Commons)

The 5th Annual South Florida Youth Summit closes out with call to action Florida Supreme Court Justice, Peggy Quince.

Florida Supreme Court Justice, Peggy Ann Quince, is the keynote speaker for the annual “A Fathers’ Affair” luncheon Saturday, June 3, 2017, 12 noon, at the Hyatt Regency Pier Sixty-Six. Justice Quince is an associate justice of the seven-

member Florida Supreme Court. She was first appointed to the court in the state’s assisted appointment method of judicial selection on Dec. 8, 1998, by the late Governor Lawton Chiles and then Governor-elect Jeb Bush.

Justice Quince was retained in 2006 and 2012. Quince served as chief justice of the court from 2008 until 2010. Her current term expires in January, 2019.

Quince was the first African American woman to serve as chief justice of the Supreme Court. She is also only the second African American and third female to serve on the court.

The PEARLS Foundation in Collaboration with Upsilon Xi Omega Chapter of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Incorporated will honor men who are making an impact daily in the lives of others at the luncheon. They are Broward County Sheriff Scott Israel, Albert Tucker, and Sam Morrison.

Tickets may be purchased from Eventbrite or by calling TaShimba Andrews at (786) 768-8876.

Celebrating Grandchildren

By James Hill Part II of III Part Story Students line up to enter the Miramar Cultural Arts Center to attend the L.I.T. Youth Rally.

(Photo credit: Gregory F. Reed, MFA) From Jessica Modkins MIAMI, FL -- Hundreds of Broward and Dade county students lined up to attend the invitation-only Leaders In Training (L.I.T.) Youth Rally at the Miramar Cultural Arts Center on Friday, May 19, 2017. “Out of the five years that we have provided opportunities for youth enrichment, this year surpasses them all,” said LEAD Nation Executive Director Adrian Freeman on the success of the rally. LEAD Nation Annually provides the South Florida Youth Summit to South Floridian students for free.

“The L.I.T. Rally has reached far above our expectations on all levels - attendance, learnings, and excitement.” The L.I.T. Rally was just one component for the 5th Annual South Florida Youth Summit.

The Summit kicked off on

Thursday, May 18, 2017 at the Urban League of Broward County with a candid discussion on the Black community.

Moderated by NBC 6 News Anchor Jawan Strader, panelists Angela Rye and Roland Martin didn’t hold back. “Both were just as real and raw, especially Roland Martin,” said Rebecca Vaughn. Martin explained the importance of how a Black person’s fight for equality went beyond their race. “The explosion of women in the workforce is as a result of professional schools because of what Black folks did to get the civil rights act in 1964. If you are Vietnamese, Chinese, Korean and you love voting in you native language - thank Black people. That is possible because of the 1964

voting rights act... Blacks were fighting to change a system.”

The marching orders and attitude of 2017 for Blacks are to be fully prepared for 30 years from now. To leverage the existing power despite present leadership to drive change. Bank Black, buy Black, and give Black is the principal for future success. Dr. Martin Luther King’s 1967 book “Where Do We Go From Here: Chaos in Our Community” is still relevant and lays the foundation for our tomorrow.

State Representative Shevrin Jones, LEAD Nation co-founder, closed out the Summit with sincere thanks to all of the sponsors and volunteers. “The team worked tirelessly for one year to plan an experience of a lifetime for South Floridians. Over 2,000 lives have been inspired and encouraged to change the narrative of our next generation.”

Broward elders elected to Hall Of Fame

The new electees posed for a commemorative photo. Seated (from l): Barbara Gordon, Roberta Nazimovitz, Edith Lederberg, ADRC Executive Director Antoinette Galleta, Vera Chuck, Gwen Major and Dorothy Ruffin. Standing (from l): Barbara Beasley Williamson, Broward County Mayor Barbara Sharief, Sharon Saphier Grad, Norman Grad, Karen Caputo, Patricia Crowley, Addie Sanders-Owens and John Ruffin, Jr.

By Denise Jones On Friday morning, May 19, thirteen outstanding men and women were honored by induction into the Broward Senior Hall of Fame.

Over 325 community advocates, elected and appointed officials joined the Aging and Disability Resource Center in celebrating the achievements of the group whose exceptional local volunteer efforts

merited their selection for the unique recognition.

Broward Mayor Barbara Sharief joined Master of Ceremonies, Manuel Synalovski, AIA, and Aging and Disability Resource Center Executive Director,

Bianca discovered the dinning voice she has, which seemed to improve and get stronger each year.

Mr. Sheppard, her music teacher at Our Savior Lutheran School, took notice of her voice and created a special arrangement of the Psalm “America the Beautiful” for her to perform at the annual school talent show.

Bianca drew a standing ovation from the audience. It was at this stage of her development that she no longer feared speaking or singing before an audience.

Two major events occurred when Bianca entered the fifth grade. First, her family moved from Plantation to accommodate her sister Kayla’s growing interest in the game of golf. Second, Bianca was transferred to the NSU University School at Nova Southeastern University to start fifth grade. At this juncture of her education, she had begun Edith Lederberg, in welcoming the new Hall of Famers whose names are inscribed on a commemorative plaque, which hangs in the Broward County Government Building.

The new electees include: Karen Caputo, Hollywood; Vera Chuck, Miramar; Patricia Crowley, Oakland Park; Antoinette Galleta, Pompano Beach; Barbara Gordon, Pompano Beach; Norman & Sharon Saphier Grad, Margate; Gwen Major, Deerfield Beach; Roberta Nazimovitz, Pembroke Pines; Dorothy & John W. Ruffin, Jr., Coral Springs; Addie SandersOwens, Lauderhill; and Barbara Beasley Williamson, Fort Lauderdale.

to take note of Kayla’s developing talent in golf. Kayla had won the Broward County Jr. Golf Championship in 2008. It had a positive effect on Bianca’s life.

Matured by both of those occurrences, Bianca began to search deeper and broader to determine where her talent might lie and what she had to do in order to reach the top of her talent. Realizing at that point what I had taught her, “Different strokes for different folks,” Bianca spent grades five through eight engaging her in every activity possible to become the best she could be in life.

As an eighth grader at NSU University School, Bianca took a little time out of her busy schedule oh — day to ask herself the following questions: “What have I done so far toward accomplishing my goal toward achieving my mission” and “What do I need to be doing now and in the future to continue my quest to be successful in school?”

The answers to her questions could only be found in review of the activities in which she had participated over the past several years.

NSU University School presented Bianca with a number of new challenges. However, at the same time, the school provided her with more opportunities to improve upon the things she had learned to do previously. She joined the Drama Club and the Debate Team in addition to taking lessons in voice and music. Bianca has always had a passion for music and theater. She performed in two stage plays, Beauty and the Beast and Charlie and the Chocolate Factory, as well as others. Her interests in music include genres such as R&B and Hip-Hop. Additionally, Bianca played soccer and volleyball at NSU University School. For the last six years, Bianca has dedicated herself to the sport of volleyball.

She has played both indoor and beach volleyball for two consecutive years. Bianca was granted the opportunity to play on the St. Thomas Aquinas High School Junior Varsity Volleyball Team as an incoming freshman. She made the South Florida Volleyball All-Star

BIANCA Team and went on to the International World Volleyball Tournament in Orlando in summer 2016. As for her upcoming sophomore year, she plans to try out for the volleyball team again.

As a student athlete, Bianca has excelled in all of her Honors Courses. She has been given multiple opportunities to explore career choices, including going to spend a week and a half at the prestigious John Hopkins University in Baltimore, Maryland, to be a part of the university’s Advanced PreMed Program.

Bianca is intensely involved in her community. Along with attending monthly beach cleanups, she helps with the infants in the local Church by the Sea. She is involved in organization drives and fundraisers that support diabetes and child obesity, Bianca is currently involved in three not-for-profit organizations, including the McCormick Foundation and Habitat for Humanity.

On May 6 of this year, she celebrated her Sweet 16 with her family and 53 of her closest friends in attendance.

According to Bianca, her family group has always been the most important part of her life. Because she and her cousin Faith are very close in age, they enjoy seeing each other and hanging out whenever they get the chance. Randall likes to hang with them too whenever they let him.

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MAY 25 - MAY 31, 2017 • PAGE 3

Lydia Hudson elected president of Democratic Black Caucus

By Louis C. Ward Lydia Hudson was elected president of the Democratic Black Caucus, Florida (DBCF) at its 35th Annual Conference May 20 at the Rosen Centre in Orlando, Fla. Expressing his support for the DBCF, United States Senator Bill Nelson showed up at the President’s Kickoff Reception Friday evening, May 19, and the Honorable Congress-

woman Val Demings led a host of prominent speakers at the “Excellence in our Economic and Political Progress” Gala Saturday evening, May 20.

Newly elected President Hudson, the former administration’s fist vice, under the leadership of outgoing President Henry Crespo, Sr., was practically given a mandate to lead the organization and its more than 20 county chapters, as she carried more than 70

percent of the vote.

“We must expect to win as a party and a people,” emphasized President Hudson, a resident of Tampa, Fla. President Hudson believes with her leadership the DBCF will create a youth division and reach out to colleges and HBCUs, build partnerships with faith leaders to commit to civic engagement and voter mobilization; provide education and training for all officers and members statewide;

Rep. Scott urges parents to stay vigilant on ESSA Rep. Scott warns about GOP attacks on Obama’s Education Law

By Stacy M. Brown (NNPA Newswire Contributor) There’s no doubt that No Child Left Behind Act (NCLB) had its share of problems, according to Rep. Bobby Scott, a Virginia Democrat who’s the ranking member of the House Committee on Education and the Workforce.

Among those problems, many school districts grouped all disadvantaged students together in a way that could mask underperformance, especially the underperformance of minority students. That was a major concern for Scott, one of the architects of the new Every Student Succeeds Act (ESSA), signed into law by President Barack Obama in 2015.

“I believe that free, public education is a cornerstone of our democracy,” Scott said. “The No Child Left Behind Act recognized that we needed more than just money. We also had to look at results and, more importantly, act to close achievement gaps.”

But the prescription for NCLB missed the mark. It was wrong, said Scott.

“That’s why I worked across the aisle to pass ESSA in 2015,” said Scott. “ESSA keeps NCLB’s focus on achievement and action to close gaps, but recognizes

that [communities]—not Congress—know what works in your schools and communities.”

Scott has repeatedly expressed concerns about Republicans “attacking” the law.

Scott also said that he opposes funding public education with property taxes.

“The United States Supreme Court said, when it issued its historic decision in Brown v.

Board of Education, that ‘it is doubtful that any child may reasonably be expected to succeed in life if denied the opportunity of an education; such an opportunity is a right, which must be made available to all on equal terms,’” Scott said.

Scott continued: “The United States has historically funded public education with the real estate tax, virtually guaranteeing more resources in wealthy areas and less in low income areas. So, when Congress passed the original Elementary and Secondary Education Act in 1965, the law’s primary goal was to target federal dollars to underserved areas to make up for use of the property tax as a main funding mechanism for public education.”

With the new law, it’s imperative that parents and teachers know and understand the plans that are under ESSA, Scott urged, adding that pa-

Rep. Bobby Scott said that ESSA presents an opportunity to focus on equity in education by working to replace strategies that didn’t work with researchbased interventions that do work. (Freddie Allen/AMG/NNPA) rents also need to demand access to state plans and have input, especially in communities of color, because, historically, those students have been marginalized.

(Read full story on www.thewestsidegazette.com)

Lawyers’ Committee for Civil Rights Under Law releases report on Attorney General Jeff Sessions’ first 100 days Report sets forth evidence of rollbacks on Civil Rights enforcement WASHINGTON, D.C. — Recently, the Lawyers’ Committee for Civil Rights Under Law released a report on Friday evaluating Attorney General Jeff Sessions’ first 100 days at the helm of the Justice Department. The report is the first in a series by the Lawyers’ Committee entitled “Where Is Justice” evaluating the Depart-

ment’s work—or lack thereof— on key civil rights matters.

Lawyers’ Committee for Civil Rights Under Law’s President and Executive Director Kristen Clarke issued the following statement: “The rapid downward trajectory of civil rights enforcement under United States Attorney General Jeff Sessions in

NAACP President Cornell Brooks voted out (Cont'd from FP) highly publicized arrest.

During a May 19 media call on the end of Brooks’ presidency, NAACP National Board Chairman Leon Russell and Vice Chair Derrick Johnson told reporters that the search for a new leader will start immediately and focus on, “renewed nimbleness and vigilance so that we can aggressively respond to the current climate of political unrest as well as the assault on human rights.”

Russell also added that, “we don’t have a job description in front of us.”

Russell said that there would be a, “system-wide and strategic revisiting of processes…that will ensure the NAACP can address these 21st century challenges.”

Russell also said that he and Johnson would manage the day-today NAACP operations on an interim basis until a replacement for Brooks is found.

They also announced a NAACP “listening tour” in an effort to be informed “by the people we serve” and to “harness grassroots energy” while at the same time listening also to current staff, past leaders in the Civil Rights Movement and “philanthropic” groups.

The NAACP makes this startling leadership change at an

incredibly crucial time. President Donald Trump is reeling amidst accusations of collusion with the Russian government, during the 2016 election season and obstruction of justice involving former FBI Director Jim Comey’s investigation of it. Attorney General Sessions easily represents one of the biggest threats to policy issues disproportionately impacting African Americans.

But the NAACP has clearly taken a back seat in terms of national attention. Younger, tighter and more focused movements such as Black Lives Matter, Color of Change and now The Indivisible Movement have leveraged social media and narrowed priorities to push there agendas as the NAACP has remained in a traditionalist managerial model that would appear ill-suited for the times.

The vote by the 64-member NAACP national board to part ways with Brooks took place during a quarterly board meeting in Florida and on the same day that Dr. Rev. William Barber stepped down as NAACP North Carolina State President. Barber has led the Moral Mondays movement in North Carolina and won political and public relations attention as a result. He is now focused on a diverse “poor people’s campaign” modeled after Dr. Martin Luther King’s own work.

ATTY. GENERAL SESSIONS his first 100 days in office cannot be ignored. Attorney General Sessions has shown a disregard for minority communities that rely on the Justice Department to protect their rights and enforce key civil rights laws on issues ranging from voting rights, policing reform and criminal justice. The Lawyers’ Committee will continue to press the Attorney General to do his job and enforce our nation’s federal civil rights laws and urge Congress and the public to remain vigilant in providing oversight of this important federal agency.”

Congressman Cedric Richmond (D-La.), Chairman of the Congressional Black Caucus, appeared before the Senate Judiciary Committee in January to speak against the nomination of Attorney General Sessions. Reflecting on the first 100 days, Congressman Richmond said: “In his first 100 days, the Attorney General has demonstrated an indifference to the unique plight of the Black community vis-a-vis our criminal justice system and hostility to taking action to curb unconstitutional policing where it exists. This report is an important contribution to holding this Department of Justice accountable.”

(Con't on Page 5)

Newly elected DBCF officers: Cornell Maxfield, Hazel Gillis, Lydia Hudson, Russell Drake and Glenda and Alford Atkins. use and strengthen technological innovations and social media, and finally she will stay true to her catchphrase: “Expect Results” President Hudson sees a DBCF that “celebrates all generations and balances traditional strategies with innovative methods and technology, including social media, member on-line training and electronic newsletters.”

The members of the new administration have the talent and ability to work collectively for the growth of our organization, and be a beacon for Black political progress in Florida, said Henry Crespo, Sr., who served as DBCF President from 2013 to 2017.

Other elected officers can stand on their own regarding the mandate . Orange County’s Russell Drake, elected 1st Vice President, has an impressive six point “R 6 Initiative”: Reenergize, Re-educate, Reengage, Re-invest,, Re-build,

and Re-late. Hopefully, his community involvement will provide the opportunity for him to increase DBCF membership with the younger 17 to 35 yearsold age group.

Others elected for the twoyear term were Glenda AlfordAtkins, 2nd Vice President, an incumbent, who has increased county chapters from 16 to 21.

Secretary Hazel Gillis, a former president of the Duval County chapter, has a strong work presence and is known for mobilizing her people and getting things done in the Jacksonville area and Manatee County’s Cornell Maxfield, the treasurer and president of Manatee County Chapter, is well known for working to get County Commissioner Charles Smith elected and getting things done in her “red” community.

“I’ve seen and heard the innovative ideas shared by the newly elected officers, and they are motivational to our members, so I am looking forward to

working with the new administration, as I feel the newly elected leaders really have the interest of our caucus at heart, said Lake County Democratic Black Caucus President Lillian Lockette.

Prior to the election, U.S. Senator Bill Nelson, who has decided to run for re-election, described the negative policies of the Republicans on health care, and encouraged everyone to get motivated and make our voices count.”

Val Demimgs, Congresswoman of the 10th Congressional District in the U.S. House of Representatives, discussed the importance of making Florida Blue in 2018. All speakers were impressive in their discourse.

Speakers included Manatee County Commissioner Charles Smith, Broward County Commissioner Dale Holness, and Michael Blake, Democratic National Committee.

Kevin McNeir was the Master of Ceremony.

Public opinion still mixed on rape allegations against Cosby Bill Cosby ’s supporters, detractors argue his case in the Court of Public Opinion Cosby’s

By Stacy M. Brown (The Washington Informer/NNPA Member) The arguments go back and forth.

Detractors of comedian Bill Cosby say he made his bed and should suffer the consequences.

Supporters argue that greed, extortion and a campaign to distort his legacy, by alleged racists, have destroyed Cosby’s career.

At the center of the controversy are the dozens of accusers; some of the women, who sued Cosby and his legal team for defamation, as the comedian defended himself publicly, lost those lawsuits.

The extortion, his supporters say, comes courtesy of Gloria Allred, a celebrity attorney who, in 2014, called on Cosby to put $100 million in a fund for the alleged victims and to let a panel of retired judges determine the truth about their claims, many of which allegedly happened in the 1960s and 1970s.

And claims of racism have mostly been directed at Hollywood and its tolerance for individuals like Roman Polanski and Woody Allen and Judd Apatow, who has been vocal in his condemnation of Cosby, even calling the “I-Spy” star “one of the most awful people you’ve ever heard of.”

Terri Fletcher, a retired nurse who lives in Pennsylvania where Cosby will stand trial in June, said that Apatow has shown himself to be a misogynistic racist.”

As the co-executive producer of HBO’s hit show “Girls,” Apatow, for years, ducked questions about the white-washing of the New York City portrayed in the comedy.

Tanisha Jones, a New York fashion designer who works in the entertainment industry, called the allegations against Cosby, “an absolute intentional murder of his legacy.”

Jones, 28, added that she feels for any woman who has been raped, assaulted or demeaned in any way.

“But, realistically, we have not seen evidence that any of this is true, yet we can’t watch his shows, which all have been groundbreaking and a boost and an encouragement to Black people,” said Jones. “Yet, what we do see are other comedians going against Cosby with venom and attorneys like Ms. Allred asking Mr. Cosby for $100 million in what I think is nothing more than a shakedown.”

Allred has denied those claims. She told NBC that she thinks Cosby’s NNPA Newswire

Cosby’s fans question the motives of his accusers, while others just want him to have his day in court.

(The World Affairs Council of Philadelphia/Wikimedia Commons) interview was an attempt to influence the jury pool.

“I expect Mr. Cosby and members of his family to con-

tinue to speak out in an attempt to portray him as a victim rather than as an alleged sexual predator,” Allred said.

Dr. Carolyn M. Byerly, a professor and chair of the Department of Communications, Culture and Media Studies at Howard University’s School of Communications, offered her perspective.

Cosby’s early work clearly broke ground and should, of course, continue to be recognized, she said.

However, the “deeply significant events of what appears to be his later life behavior, cannot be dismissed or trivialized,” Byerly said.

(Read full story on www.thewestsidegazette.com)

Rescue me PLEASE! (Cont'd from FP) It is believed and stated that desperate times bring about desperate measures. I need help to understand what kind of desperation leads to the immoral conduct of suppose to be young teenagers, allegedly, inflicting so much pain on a young child, then killing him and leaving his body in the back seat of the car they stole?

This child victim just happened to be sitting in the backseat of his mother’s car as she stepped inside the store. Crimes involving young people of this magnitude use to be rare and unbelievable. Now to be caught up in a crime as horrific as this seems to be common place.

Unemployment, foreclosures, no health insurance, HIV/ AIDS, cancer, diabetes; one seems to be systemic of the other.

What do you do?

Maybe I don’t really understand being broke, busted and destitute, but I have known what it meant to be lost, confused and afraid.

I have realized that after the devastation of forest fires, the vegetation that returns is healthier, and no matter how awesome the picture, you can’t hit a homerun unless you get in the batter's box.

How much worst can it get? Ask the man who has seen the splendor and majesty of a sunset and now, in the genesis of blindness, he can’t.

When you feel like you have gotten to the point where things are the most horrendous for you, go off and find someone who is just a little bit deeper in the pits. Wait on them, serve them, encourage them and while doing so you will forget about your condition.

When we are caught up in rescuing, our plight is no longer our concern. The focus is not on our storm but on bringing somebody else through theirs.

To know the might of your anchor, you must endure the power of the storm.

“And he saith unto them, Why are ye fearful, O ye of little faith? Then he arose, and rebuked the winds and the sea; and there was a great calm.”

Matthew 8:26 (KJV) “Dear God, help me to know how strong You are and not to give in to the weakness that is in me without You. In Jesus' name, Amen.

“Though the winds may blow and the waters may rise, my hope for security lies far beyond the skies.”

— Bobby R. Henry, Sr. THERE IS NO PERIL THAT GOD CAN’T SAVE YOU FROM

PAGE 4 • MAY 25 - MAY 31, 2017

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Reception

ICABA Men Who Lead presents Meet & Greet Reception for Dr. Williams Pickard on Thursday, May 25, 2017 from 6 to 8 p.m., at Urban League of Broward County, 560 N.W. 27 Ave., Fort Lauderdale, Fla. Hors D’oeuvres and open bar.

For tickets and addition call (954) 584-0777.

Workshop

Broward County Public Schools Supplier Diversity & Outreach Program upcoming Outreach Events at TSSC Annex Bank Lobby, 7770 W. Oakland Park Blvd., Sunrise, Fla. · Friday, May 26, 2017 from 12 to 2 p.m. – F.H. Paschen, S.N. Nielson Associates d/b/a FHP Tectonics Corp. · Thursday, June 15 from 12 to 2 p.m. – Current Builders, Inc.

Event Somerset Academy Village Annual Career Day on Tuesday, May 30, 2017 from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m., at 225 NW 29th St., Wilton Manors, Fla. For additional info call (954) 3900971.

Celebration

Camperdown High School Past Students’ Association, Florida Chapter, will host its 16th Annual Fundraising Event on Memorial Weekend on Friday, May 26-28, 2017 at the Renaissance Fort Lauderdale Port Hotel, 1617 S.E. 17th St., Causeway, Fort Lauderdale, Fla. Theme is “Stronger, Together”. For further info and tickets contact the following people: Michelle ChueSang-Cooper at (95) 802-6590; Dawn Stimpson at (954) 9074801; Aston McKenzie at (954) 292-4400; Trevor Chamber at (305) 741-8762 or visit or website at www.camperdownfl.org or email us at executive@camperdownfl.org

Events

* Saturday, May 27, at Thomas Park, 800 N.W. Second St.,.

Dania Beach, Fla * Saturday, June 3, at Foster Park, 609 NW Sixth Ave., Hallandale Beach Fla. For more info call (954) 5244659. * Youth Leadership Institute on Thursday, June 15 Saturday, June 17, 2017 at Nova Southeastern University, 3301 College Ave., Fort Lauderdale, Fla.

Events

Party

Eta Nu Chapter of Omega Psi Phi Fraternity presents Memorial Holiday Weekend "Sundresses and Linen" Day Party on Sunday, May 28, 2017 from 3 to 10 p.m., at The Robinson Estate, 12340 S.W. First St., Plantation, Fla. Ticket info: call Harry at (954) 445-1515.

Pompano Beach Cultural Center announces Summer Season Alyona Ushe to showcase Cultural Alliance Members and Community Spirit. All events will be held at the Pompano Beach Cultural Center, 50 S.W. First Ave., Pompano Beach, Fla. · Saturday, June 3 and 4, from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. – Spring Gala 2017 presented by Florida Classical Ballet Company Spring Gala 2017 · Saturday, June 10 from 2 to 5 p.m. – Issun Boshi and the music of Japan presented by South Florida Chamber Ensemble · Saturday, June 10 from 10 a.m. to 10 p.m. – FREE but RSVP required, Curtain Call Playhouse 20th Anniversary Celebration · Wednesday, June 24 and 25 from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. – Waking Sleeping Beauty presented by Curtain Call Playhouse.

For cost and additional info call Kay Renz at (561) 6548151.

Run/Walk

Workshop

The A PLUS Foundation, Incorporated, the 501©3 nonprofit philanthropic arm of Chi Psi Omega Chapter of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Incorporated (AKA) will host the Inaugural Running for the Innovative Visionary Youth (I.V.Y.) 5k Run/Walk on Saturday, June 3, 2017 from 7 a.m. to 10 a.m., at Tradewinds Park, 3600 W. Sample Rd., Coconut Creek, Fla. For additional info contact Cheryl Waide at (786) 245-3549.

Business Development Workshop Series doing Business with Parks and Recreation and other County Agencies on Saturday, June 10, 2017 from 11:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m., at Oak Hammond Hall at Long Key Nature Center, 3501 S.W. 130 Ave., Davie, Fla. Register to secure your exhibit space by Wednesday, May 24, 2017 as space is limited. Vendors that are accepted to be Exhibitors at this Event will be notified.

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.

Computer Classes Pre-register for free computer classes at (954) 357-6236.

Due to limited seating, registration begins 6 days prior to each scheduled class. * Friday, May 26 - Computer Literacy I for Senior, from 12 noon to 3 p.m.

For additional info and for FREE classes being offered at other library locations call (954) 357-6236 or inquire at the computer or reference info desk.

Youth Services Programs call your services at (945) 3576209 if you have any questions about the following programs. · Monday, Tuesday and Wednesdays from 3 to 5 p.m. FREE Homework Help for grades K-12. · Saturday, May 27 from 2 to 3 p.m. - "Wags & Tales" come and read to Augy a furry fourlegged friends. ·Friday, June 2, from 6:30 to 9:30 p.m.- Destination Caribbean-American Heritage Celebration. For ages 21 and over event.

Upcoming Destinatiion Fridays Events: * Sept. 8 - Antigua/Barbuda * Oct. 6 - Motown `* Nov. 3 - Bahamas For more info call (954) 3576210.

ELDER ABUSE

DILLARD HIGH CLASS OF 1967 50 YEAR CLASS REUNION JUNE 1-4, 2017 FORT LAUDERDALE, FLORIDA

1st Annual Men's Conference 2015

Did you know that elders in our communities are being abused?

Did you know that elders in our communities are selfnegelcted?

Did you know that elders in our communities are being exploited?

Do you know what to do when you hecome aware of an elder with one or more of these problems?

For information on Elder Abuse, Neglect and Exploitation, please call: 1-800-96ELDER or 1-800-963-5337 to report elder abuse: 1-80096-ABUSE or 1-800-9622873

ON PREMISES

June 17, 2017 8 a.m. to 5 p.m.

$20 Donation New Hope Baptist Church Per Man 1321 N.W Sixth St. Breakfast & T-Shirt Included Ft. Lauderdale, FL 33311

545 N.W. 7th Terrace Fort Lauderdale, Fla. Monday -- Friday 9 a.m. to 6 p.m.

For more info call (954) 525-1489

www.thewestsidegazette.com

MAY 25 - MAY 31, 2017 • PAGE 5

Westside Gazette

The Gover nor must V eto HB 7069 on behalf of our public schools Governor Veto From State Representative Bobby DuBose One of the great joys of serving as an elected state Representative is the opportunity it provides me to interact with the people of our community and act as a voice on their behalf in Tallahassee. That’s why I’m excited to have been afforded the chance to write an occasional column to fill you in on my view

on pending legislation, changes in state law that may affect you or your family, and to share my opinion on issues that may be making waves in the media.

There’s been a lot of talk about a bill, HB 7069, that was passed this session that will be greatly detrimental to the future of public education in the state. I voted against this bill on the floor and I am urging Governor Scott to veto it.

There are many problems with HB 7069, both from a policy and a process standpoint.

Most importantly, I disagree with the idea of creating a $140 million slush fund to give to private, for-profit charter management companies at the expense of our public schools. In a year when per-pupil funding only increased by $24, it is clear that money could be better directed to the 90-plus percent of stu-

Senator Bill Nelson joins DBCF President Henry Crespo at president’s kickoff reception

Crespo and Senator Nelson Florida United States Senator Bill Nelson showed up at the Democratic Black Caucus Florida President’s Kickoff Reception for Henry Crespo, Jr., the soon to be outgoing president of the organization, Friday evening, May 19 at the 35th Annual Democratic Black Caucus of Florida State Conference at the Rosen Centre, and he was the talk of the event.

Very cordial and willing to take selfies with almost every-

one, Senator Nelson was warmly greeted with respect, love and honor for his involvement in improving the quality of life for all individuals in the sunshine state he has represented since 1972 Commenting on the prayer delivered by Rev. Leon Belton, President of Bay County chapter of the Black Caucus, the three term U.S. Senator said, “That prayer got me wanting to preach.”

Senator Nelson plans to run for re-election. My wife and I have made the decision to run for re-election, said Nelson to a thundering and receptive applause. “I need to stay in the playing field.”

“The Republicans’ health care bill has wracked Medicaid.

They want to reverse the Affordable Care Act only because it was under Obama,” Nelson remarked. “They want to undue the 24 million people who are covered. And they will not cover those with pre-existing conditions, like asthma.”

Nelson encouraged everyone “to get motivated and make our voice count.”

President Crespo, alluding to the very successful evening’s event of food, fun and fellowship, acknowledged Senator Nelson with open arms, and said The DBCF is an organization that is empowering African Americans to engage on all levels. We feel a sense of pride when we keep moving forward.”

Regarding the 2017 DBCF general elections, Crespo said when the elections are over and whoever wins, we are still a family and we still have a mission.

Presentations were made by Pam Keith, a candidate for Congress, Thaddeus Hamilton and Michael Christine; both are candidates for commissioner of agriculture.

dents who attend traditional public schools.

It is also a fact that Florida ranks in the bottom ten nationally when it comes to teacher pay, with our valuable teachers making about $9,000 less than the national average. Rather than addressing this directly, instead they are being offered bonuses based on test scores from when they were in high school.

The bill also includes a policy that will undoubtedly hurt our school districts’ ability to retain their highest performing teachers at a time when Florida is experiencing a growing teacher

shortage. To make matters worse, that policy was voted down as a standalone bill in a Senate committee.

That’s where we get to the process. The final legislation, a budget conforming bill comprised of at least 55 different bills, was drafted in secret with no public input or oversight.

That does a disservice to Floridians who expect their government to function in the sunshine and would set a terrible precedent going forward.

While there may be worthwhile policies within the bill, the good does not outweigh the bad. On your behalf, Governor Scott must veto HB 7069.

State Rep. DuBose

First 100 jur or candidates inter viewed for juror interviewed Cosby case

By Stacy M. Brown (NNPA Newswire Contributor) PITTSB U RG H --Montgomery County Judge Steven O’Neill spent most of the morning questioning the first 100 juror candidates in the criminal trial of comedian Bill Cosby.

Ten of the prospective jurors were Black; eight women and two men.

In all 53 women and 37 The first 100 prospective jurors were questioned in the men were among the Alleg- criminal trial of comedian Bill Cosby. heny County residents ques(Pool Photo/Pittsburgh Post-Gazette) tioned as prospective jurors. law enforcement officers, vision and use other devices A preliminary witness list doctors and Andrea Constand, that they normally would. the judge read didn’t include He also said that they’d still whose 2003 accusations that the big Hollywood names that have to abide by their sworn Cosby drugged her and raped many anticipated. her in his home near oath not to form any opinions, The judge read the name Philadelphia led to the star talk to anyone about the case Diahann Carroll, the actress being charged with three counts and reach a decision based on who won a Golden Globe in evidence presented in court of sexual assault.

1968 for Best Actress in a Teleonly.

The trial is set to begin on vision Series and who became Thirty-four prospective juJune 5 in Montgomery County, the first African American to rors said Monday that they had 300 miles away from Pittsburgh earn an Emmy nomination in where the jury selection is tak- already formed an opinion as to 1969. the guilt or innocence of Cosby ing place.

Women’s rights attorney and 25 said the nature of the When jurors were asked if and perpetual Cosby nemesis charges against him would they or a close relative or close Gloria Allred also made the prevent them from being fair friend have ever been a victim witness list, as well as several of sexual assault, 35 of the 100 and impartial.

Cosby arrived in the courtjurors said, “Yes.” room flanked by his attorneys Fourteen of the jurors said and being helped to his seat by the nature or references to his assistant and spokesman General Jeff Sessions’ te- sexual assault would prevent Andrew Wyatt. nure, the Lawyers’ Committee them from being fair and imDuring the morning proceedwill continue to ask through its partial; sixty-seven of them said ings, Cosby occasionally brushwork and news reports: Where that being sequestered and the ed his eyebrows with his hands and smiled at times at some of Is Justice.

The Lawyers’ Committee for expected two to three week the judge’s quips to jurors.

Civil Rights Under Law’s report duration of the trial would on Attorney General Jeff Ses- create an undue hardship. sions’ first 100 days is availHowever, O’Neill said that able online. And the organi- while the jury will be sequesterzation’s statement on the Ses- ed, they will be allowed to use sions nomination from January their cell phones, watch tele2017 is also available online.

Lawyers’ Committee for Civil Rights Under Law releases report on Attorney General Jeff Sessions’ first 100 days · Taken actions that mar(Cont'd from Page 3) In its report, the Lawyers’ Committee notes that Attorney General Sessions “has sought to reverse important progress made in recent years to bring fairness to the criminal justice system and protect the most vulnerable among us.”

In his first 100 days, Attorney General Sessions has: · Revoked a 2016 directive aimed at phasing out the use of

Lawson introduces (Cont'd from FP) “This bill will help generate new jobs, attract investment, and provide necessary training to our emerging leaders in Florida’s fifth district and around the country so that we can grow our economy where we need it most,” said Rep. Lawson. “This program has already helped more than 4,000 small business owners in sustaining and growing their businesses and I know we can make that number even bigger by helping more people across the country.”

“Entrepreneurial Development programs, including the Emerging Leader’s initiative, can provide powerful tools for fostering small business growth and opportunity in economically challenged areas,” said Rep. Nydia M. Velázquez (D-NY), Ranking Member of the House Small Business Committee. “I applaud Mr. Lawson for his leadership in introducing this measure. I look forward to working with him in the Small Business Committee toward the bill’s passage.”

“Congressman Lawson’s introduction of the Entrepreneurial Education Initiative is great news for entrepreneurs,” said John Arensmeyer, Founder & CEO of Small Business Majority. “This legislation will help ensure that small business

private prisons; · Called for the review of all existing and pending consent decrees concerning policing reform; · Issued a directive to prosecutors that threatens to reignite a “War on Drugs”; · Abandoned a long-held position in a voting rights case concerning a discriminatory and restrictive photo ID law in Texas; owners in underserved communities have the support they need to launch and grow their businesses. This is a step in the right direction for businesses and local economies. ” Over the course of seven months, participants are given the opportunity to work with experienced mentors, attend specialized workshops and develop connections with their peers, city leaders, and the financial community. Recruitment for the Emerging Leaders Initiative occurs on an annual basis, beginning in February and classes typically begin in April. The Initiative incorporates a curriculum that is research-based and nationally scalable, enabling participating businesses to engage in focused development and expansion strategies, including options for accessing new capital and securing government contracts.

Government statistics have shown that underserved small businesses are the engines of sustained economic growth and job creation. Small businesses in underserved cities added close to three times as many jobs to their local economies as large companies over the last decade. SBA launched the Initiative to capitalize on this proven capacity for stimulating jobs and growth in America’s cities.

ginalize immigrant communities; and · Stood silent in the wake of the spike in hate crimes across the country.

Since its creation in 1963 at theurging of President John F. Kennedy, the Lawyers’ Committee has been devoted to the recognition and enforcement of civil rights in the United States. Throughout Attorney

MEMORIAL DAY, REMEMBERING OUR VETERANS THE SCHOOL BOARD OF BROWARD COUNTY, FLORIDA NOTICE OF MEETINGS MEETINGS SUBJECT TO CHANGE OR CANCELLATION Date Meeting Place 05/22/17 Bond Oversight Committee KCW Bldg., Board Room Meeting and Public Hearing 5:30p 600 SE 3rd Ave., Ft. Laud.

06/19/17 &KDUWHU $SSOLFDQW¶V KCW Bldg., Board Room Informational Meeting 1p 600 SE 3RD Ave., Ft. Laud.

06/01/17 Diversity Committee ± Site Visit KCW Bldg., Board Room Sub Committee 5:30p 600 SE 3rd Ave., Fort Laud.

06/01/17 Diversity Committee Meeting KCW Bldg., Board Room 6:30p 600 SE 3rd Ave., Fort Laud.

06/05/17 Diversity Committee ± Various Lauderdale Manors Learning Ctr Sub-Committee Meetings 2p 1400 NW 14th Court, Fort Laud..

06/07/17 Diversity Committee ± Various Lauderdale Manors Learning Ctr Sub Committee Meetings 2p 1400 NW 14th Court, Fort Laud.

Plantation High School ± Media Ctr 06/01/17 Facilities Task Force General 6901 NW 16th St., Plantation Meeting 7p 06/05/17 Head Start/Early Head Start KCW Bldg., Board Room Policy Council Meeting 5:30p 600 SE 3rd Ave., Ft. Laud.

05/25/17 North Area Advisory Council Atlantic Technical High School Steering/General 6p/7p 4700 Ccnt Crk., Blvd., Ccnt Crk. 06/12/17 Parent/Community Involvement McFatter Tech College (Bistro) Task Force Regular Meeting 6p 6500 Nova Dr., Davie 06/19/17 Parent/Community Involvement McFatter Tech College (Bistro) Task Force Regular Meeting 6p 6500 Nova Dr., Davie 06/07/017 QSEC Review of Contractors TSSC ± Suite 323 Pre-Qualification/ReCert.

8:30a 7720 W. Oklnd Pk. Blvd., Sunrise 06/28/17 QSEC Review of Contractors TSSC ± Suite 323 Pre-Qualification/ReCert.

8:30a 7720 W. Oklnd Pk. Blvd., Sunrise 06/14/17 Superintendent's Ins. & Wellness TSSC Annex Advisory Committee (SIWAC) 9a 7770 W. Oklnd Pk Blvd., Sunrise (Purpose: To discuss various items FRQFHUQLQJ WKH (PSOR\HH %HQHILWV¶ Program as, well as any other matter the Committee deems important.)

06/28/17 9a

Superintendent's Ins. & Wellness Advisory Committee (SIWAC)

TSSC Annex 7770 W. Oklnd Pk Blvd., Sunrise

(Purpose: To discuss various items FRQFHUQLQJ WKH (PSOR\HH %HQHILWV¶ Program as, well as any other matter the Committee deems important.)

06/28/17 Supplier Diversity & Outreach TSSC ± Suite 323 4p 7220 W. Oklnd Pk Blvd., Sunrise Program Adv. Committee Mtg The School Board of Broward County, Florida, prohibits any policy or procedure which results in discrimination on the basis of age, color, disability, gender identity, gender expression, national origin, marital status, race, religion, sex or sexual orientation.

Individuals who wish to file a discrimination and/or harassment complaint may call the Director, Equal Educational Opportunities/ADA Compliance Department at 754-3212150 or Teletype Machine (TTY) 754-321-2158. Individuals with disabilities requesting accommodations under the Americans with Disabilities Act Amendments Act of 2008, (ADAAA) may call Equal Educational Opportunities/ADA Compliance Department at 754-321-2150 or Teletype Machine (TTY) 754-321-2158.

Notice is hereby given that two or more Board Members of The School Board of Broward County, Florida, may be participating.

THE SCHOOL BOARD OF BROWARD COUNTY, FLORIDA NOTICE OF MEETINGS 05/23/17 KCW Bldg., 600 SE 3rd Ave., Ft. Laud. Board Rm Special School Board Meeting 8:30 a.m. ± Collective Bargaining Agreements and Salary Schedules for select meet and confer groups.

9:00 a.m. or 6FKRRO %RDUG :RUNVKRS immediately following the Special School Board Meeting

06/13/17 10:00 a.m.

10:05 a.m.

KCW Bldg., 600 SE 3rd Ave., Ft. Laud. Board Rm 6SHFLDO School Board Meeting (Expulsions) 6FKRRO %RDUG Operational Meeting

or immediately following the Special School Board Meeting

6/20/17 10:00 a.m.

KCW Bldg., 600 SE 3rd Ave., Ft. Laud. Board Rm 6FKRRO %RDUG :RUNVKRS

6/27/17 10:00 a.m.

10:05 a.m.

KCW Bldg., 600 SE 3rd Ave., Ft. Laud. Board Rm 6SHFLDO School Board Meeting (Expulsions) 5HJXODU 6FKRRO %RDUG 0HHWLQJ

or immediately following the Special School Board Meeting

School Board Meetings ± Public speakers listed on the School Board Operational Meeting agenda will be heard at 12 p.m. on June 13, 2017 and immediately following the Regular School Board meeting or at 5 p.m., whichever is earliest on June 27, 2017 or as close to those times as possible. Workshops ± Public speakers will be permitted three minutes each to address a topic at the conclusion of Board Members' discussion on the topic. The times for items on the agenda are only estimates. The actual start times for these topics may vary up to an hour or more depending on the nature of the items and the length of the Board discussions and public comments.

The School Board of Broward County, Florida, prohibits any policy or procedure which results in discrimination on the basis of age, color, disability, gender identity, gender expression, national origin, marital status, race, religion, sex or sexual orientation. Individuals who wish to file a discrimination and/or harassment complaint may call the Director, Equal Educational Opportunities/ADA Compliance Department at 754-321-2150 or Teletype Machine (TTY) 754-321-2158. Individuals with disabilities requesting accommodations under the Americans with Disabilities Act Amendments Act of 2008, (ADAAA) may call Equal Educational Opportunities/ADA Compliance Department at 754-321-2150 or Teletype Machine (TTY) 754-321-2158.

Telephone conferencing or other telecommunications technology may be used in conducting this public meeting to permit absent Board Members to participate in discussions, to be heard by other School Board Members and the public, and to hear discussions taking place during the meeting.

PAGE 6 • MAY 25 - MAY 31, 2017

Opinion

www.thewestsidegazette.com

Westside Gazette 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.

Democracy on fire with President Trump striking the match

By Roger Caldwell Democracy is being challenged in America, and it appears the rule of law does not apply to President Trump and his administration.

Every day brings a new attack on American Democracy and its institutions, and it centers around the president’s policies, his tweets, and his cronies. The Republican leadership refuses to admit there is smoke swirling around Trump’s latest revelations.

According to the media, the president obstructed justice by asking James Comey, former head of the FBI, to end an ongoing investigation into former National Security Adviser Michael Flynn’s ties to Russia.

Everyone in the media or in politics has an opinion, but there are leaks that Comey wrote memos after every encounter or meeting with President Trump, and different members within the FBI have a record of these memos.

This information is not just smoke but the beginning of a real fire.

Trump was under the impression that both Republicans and Democrats would applaud his decision to fire Comey, but his assessment was wrong.

Instead of approving his decision, the president’s Deputy Attorney General, Rod Rosenstein, appointed an independent special prosecutor to determine if there was collusion between the president, his associates and Russians.

As the fire heats up, former FBI Director, Robert Mueller, has been given the authority to continue the investigation started by James Comey, which Trump is calling a “witch hunt.”

Deputy Attorney General, Rod Rosenstein, gave the president and his staff an hour's notice before he gave an official press release to the media and legislators concerning his appointment of a special independent prosecutor.

Under current law, the special pros

The mission of the Democratic Faith Working Group

By Rep. James E. Clyburn (D-S.C.) Growing up in a church parsonage, the eldest son of a fundamentalist Christian minister grounded me securely in faith and family. My dad’s sermons, which were based in Old Testament scriptures as often as they were in the New Testament, offered

up pretty big doses of Judeo-Christian doctrines that still guide me today as Chair of the Democratic Faith Working Group (DFWG) in the United States House of Representatives.

The Old Testament lesson found in Micah 6:8 calls upon the reader to do justice, be merciful and walk humbly.

In Matthew 25:45 the reader is instructed that we are judged by the way we treat, “the least (among us).”

These are the principles that guide the members of the DFWG. We are composed of significant strains of the great diversity of faiths across our nation and in our Caucus. Our values reflect these faiths, and our faith perspectives are the lenses through which we see the great challenges of our times.

Whether the issues are combatting poverty, providing accessible, affordable health care; creating jobs that pay livable wages, rebuilding our infrastructure, tax fairness, environmental stewardship, comprehensive immigration reform, or any other matters important to the common good of our people, the members of the DFWG are utilizing our faith-based perspectives in our pursuit of “a more perfect Union.”

The members of the DFWG are actively opposing Republican efforts to “repeal and replace” the Affordable Care Act. Repealing the Affordable Care Act would have devastating effects on “the least of these.” It would violate the golden rule of “do(ing) unto others as you would have them do un-

Rep. James E. Clyburn says that repealing the Affordable Care Act would have devastating effects on “the least of these.” to you.” The Republican bill—that was passed by the House on Thursday, May 4—would exacerbate the widening income gap in our society by lavishing massive tax breaks on the wealthiest few at the expense of working people. There is not justice, mercy or humbleness in such action.

In my home district alone, more than 270,000 South Carolinians under Medicare age have pre-existing conditions. Repealing the Affordable Care Act would subject this population to higher costs and loss of care.

According to a recent Joint Economic Committee Report, the Republican Plan will cause 104,954 South Carolinians to lose private coverage in 2018, with their premiums increasing by $727 to $970. Additionally, we would see increased costs of over $94 million in uncompensated care to hospitals in South Carolina.

(Read full story on www.thewestsidegazette.com)

How the mainstream media is helping Russia Raynard Jackson says that President Trump was well within his rights to fire FBI Director James Comey with or without cause.

By Raynard Jackson (NNPA Newswire Columnist) Once again, the liberal, mainstream media has lost its collective mind over the mess swirling around President Trump in regard to the firing of former FBI director, Jim Comey.

It’s sad to see the lack of any attempt by the mainstream media to simply do its job, which is to merely report the facts, without any spin or bias.

The only ones, who are winning in this false debate are the Russians. As I wrote in my column two months ago, Russia has released a psychological operations campaign against our country and it is having its desired effect— to destabilize our country. Psy-ops are another form of warfare that causes a nation’s people to doubt the trustworthiness of its various institutions: political, corporate, religious, etc.

Once a nation begins to distrust its leadership, total collapse can’t be far off.

While we are debating Comey’s firing and Russia’s so-called meddling in our elections, does anyone realize that Russian president Vladimir Putin is

asserting extraterritorial authority in his attempt to make legal claims of ownership to vast portions of the North Atlantic (off the coast of Alaska) and the Arctic, even though this area has historically been considered international waters.

This part of the North Atlantic has untold oil and gas resources and would be an extremely profitable shipping route for global business. Russia’s Northern Fleet is attempting to secure the northern sea route between the Atlantic and the Pacific.

So, please allow me to deconstruct the phony arguments being promulgated by all the radical liberals from mainstream media, the talking heads and wayward politicians.

The President of the United States has the absolute power and authority to hire and fire the Director of the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI), according to an amendment to the Omnibus Crime Control and Safe Streets Act of 1968, Title VI, Section 1101. Prior to this amendment, the director was nominated by the U.S. Attorney General.

(Read full story on www.thewestsidegazette.com)

ecutor has the authority to hire an independent staff, which is not supervised by the Justice Department. It has subpoena powers, investigates criminal matters, and anyone can be called to testify. It is time for Trump and his top level staff members to hire outside legal counsel.

Senator John McCain says “The only thing I can say is I think we’ve seen this movie before. I think it’s reaching the point where it’s of Watergate size and scale.”

Many Democrats at this point in Trump’s early administration is calling for impeachment, but I think it is far too early. Obstruction and collusion hasve not been proven in any investigation, and Robert Mueller’s investigation is just getting started.

The Dunning-Kruger effect says “The incompetent person is too incompetent to understand his own incompetence’s.” Trump’s inability to focus makes it hard for him to learn and master facts. It is very hard for him to control what comes out of his mouth, because he forgets his own talking points.

(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.

constructed PrEP clinics. All are very committed and earnestly attempting to reach Black communities and are very interested in improving their efficacy in doing so.

Yet in the smaller cities of Gainesville and Melbourne as well as the major metropolitan areas of Broward, MiamiDade, and Orange counties, all are wrestling with how best to provide PrEP to their communities. None has found the key to delivering PrEP services to Black Americans; none is as successful in reaching Black communities as they would like. As a result, most of the PrEP uptake still occurs among White men.

In some cases, the health departments are acknowledging some of the cultural challenges and organizational gaps they face.

In the media, game recognizes game

By Lucius Gantt I moved to the State of Florida in 1975 and, God willing, I hope to move out of the Sunshine State in 2017.

I’m not trying to move because I’m mad with the state. I just think it is time for me to return to my hometown, Atlanta, Georgia.

I feel like during my stay in Florida I have contributed a lot to the state and I have accomplished a lot.

But there is one thing I haven’t done. I haven’t been able to mentor and nurture the next “great” columnist.

I’ve trained television, radio and print media reporters. I’ve trained advertising and public relations professionals.

I haven’t been able to work with young people that want to work in media to speak out on the issues that are important to Black people and young people that were willing to risk their careers or their lives to make sure that Black people knew the truth.

If you read The Gantt Report you know I’m not afraid to write about devils and beasts.

You know very well that there are some bad, evil and wicked people that are doing devilish things wherever you go and wherever you are.

“The Gantt Report style”, as some would call it has cost me some opportunities and perhaps a few dollars here and there but my column has given me worldwide recognition and global media respect.

Ensuring the promise (Read full story on of the every student www.thewestsidegazette.com) succeed act NAACP Chairmen: Elizabeth Primas ‘Today is the first day of says that the preservation of Thurgood Marshall’s our next 100 years’ legacy is dependent upon our dedication to our children.

(Freddie Allen/AMG/NNPA)

By Dr. Elizabeth Primas (Program Manager, NNPA/ESSA Media Campaign) During the month of May, many of us celebrated the 63rd anniversary of the Brown vs. Board of Education decision. The unanimous 1954 ruling by theUnited States Supreme Court declared that ”separate educational facilities are inherently unequal.” Last week, the National Newspaper Publishers Association partnered with the Thurgood Marshall Center for Service and Heritage for a special tribute to the first African American Supreme Court Justice. We also reflected on the significance of an improved national education law. The preservation of Thurgood Marshall’s legacy is dependent upon our dedication to our children.

In a column for The Washington Post, Richard Rothstein, a research associate at the Economic Policy Institute, noted that, “Today, nearly half of all black students attend majority black schools, with over 70 percent in highpoverty school districts.”

High poverty school districts are often overwhelmed by the external consequences of poverty that distract students from learning and prevent effective class room instruction. Chronic absenteeism, poor nutrition, and various forms of abuse, are a few of the challenges facing high poverty school districts. Although, inschool psychological and academic resources cannot eliminate these challenges completely, they do help to mitigate their effects. Yet, many of these programs are routinely underfunded.

(Read full story on www.thewestsidegazette.com)

7 PrEP Lessons Learned from Touring Four Florida Health Departments Recently, Leisha McKinley Beach and I embarked upon the first leg of our tour of Southern health departments. We kicked off our journey in Florida, visiting the Miami-Dade (Miami), Broward (Fort Lauderdale), Orange (Orlando) and Alachua (Gainesville) county health departments. We also met with members of BTAN Melbourne, which is also in Florida.

It is really fascinating to meet with local health-department officials and rediscover: 1) how dedicated people who work at health departments are; 2) how under-resourced they are; and 3) how much work they are actually engaged in.

We were excited to see that all four offer PrEP services. Some offer clinical services, while others provide PrEP education and awareness. Some have even

The Gantt Report

By Derrick Johnson and Leon W. Russell When the National Association for the Advancement of Colored People (NAACP) was founded in 1909, there were a number of undeniably stark realities facing Black Americans that the creation of the NAACP sought to overcome.

We worked to create a future in which a Black American could walk down a street without the fear of being lynched.

We wanted Black Americans to be able to exercise their right to vote efficiently and effectively, without being beaten, jailed or persecuted for doing so.

We dreamt of a world in which Black children would be able to receive the same education as their white peers, one that would permit their parents the opportunity to fulfill the great American Dream of leaving the next generation better off than they.

After more than 100 years of pushing against the same challenges, what do we do now?

In 2017, a Black American still cannot walk down a street, drive a car, play on the playground or enter their own home at night without the fear of being shot, beaten or harassed by their neighbors or their very own police the individuals ironically pledged to protect him.

(Read full story on www.thewestsidegazette.com) 3) The sense of urgency needs to be balanced with long-term perseverance.

(Read full story on Even where they’ve invested in new www.thewestsidegazette.com) facilities, they are experiencing a case of “if you build it, they won’t necessarily come”. Indeed, while touring these four Florida health departments, we witnessed stunning reminders of seven basic concepts: 1) Medical mistrust in Black communities is real.

2) Separation based upon race exists in communities, even when people of different races live in close physical Briefing in Melbourne for members of the Florida Health Department. proximity.

PAGE 8 • MAY 25 - MAY 31, 2017

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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"

Dr. Marcus D. Davidson,

Rev. Stanley Melek, M.Div E-MAIL:stanley.melek@flumc.org 2351 N.W. 26th Street Oakland Park, Florida 33311 Church Telephone: (954) 731-0520

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.

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!

James C. Boyd Funeral Home

Roy Mizell & Kurtz Funeral Home

PRINCE Funeral services for the late Rita A. Prince - 62 were held May 20 at James C. Boyd’s Memorial Chapel with Rev. Christian Rawlins officiating. Interment: Forest Lawn Memorial Gardens (Central).

COVINGTON Funeral services for the late Willie James Covington – 84 were held May 20 at Roy Mizell & Kurtz Worship Center with Min. Jeffery Jackson officiating.

THOMPSON Funeral services for the late Oliver Live Thompson - 40 were held May 15 at James C. Boyd’s Funeral Home.

McWhite's Funeral Home

Mount Calvary Baptist Church

800 N.W. 8th Avenue Pompano Beach, Florida 33060 Church Telephone: (954) 943-2422 Church Fax: (954) 943-2186 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 Rev Henry E. Green, Jr. PASTOR 401 N.W. 7th Terrace, Fort Lauderdale, FL 33311 Phone: (954) 463-6309 - FAX 954 522-4113 Office Hours: Tues. - Fri. 8:30 a.m. to 6:30 p.m.

Email: infor@mthermonftl.com

SUNDAY CHURCH SERVICES Worship Service ................................................................................... 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”

Mount Zion African Methodist Episcopal Church, Oakland Park "The Miracle On 33rd Street" 420 N.E. 33rd Street Oakland Park, Florida 33334 Church: (954) 563-3060 Email: mtzion420@gmail.com

Rev. George A. Hardy, Pastor SERVICES Sunday Church School ................................................................... 8:45 a.m.

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

Tuesday Night (Family Prayer & Bible Study) ........................... 7:00 p.m.

Wednesday (Prayer Conference Line) ................................................ 8:00 p.m.

(Dail (786) 233-6715 - Acess Code 703513) Oakland Park CDC (Senior Activity Center) Daily ............10 a.m. & 2:00 p.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

Senior Pastor

Obituaries Harris Chapel United Methodist Church

www.thewestsidegazette.com

Westside Gazette

DIXON Funeral services for the late Kesha L. Dixon - 43 were held May 20 at Greater Faith Temple – Cchl with Pastor Steve Robertson officiating. Interment: Sunset Memorial Gardens.

NEWTON Funeral services for the late Darlene Newton - 76 were held May 20 at McWhite’s Funeral Home Chape1.

Interment: Sunset Memorial Gardens.

PATRICK Funeral services for the late Martha Patrick - 79 were held May 20 at Tabernacle Missionary Baptist Church with Rev. David Green, Sr officiating. Interment: Royal Palm Cemetery, West Palm Beach, Fla.

A Family That Prays Together Stays Together

DOWDY Funeral services for the late Arrie Lee Dowdy – 89 were held May 20 at New Hope Baptist Church with Pastor Ricky Scott officiating. Interment: Sunset Memorial Gardens.

HICKS Funeral services for the late Roberta Parker-Hicks - 84 were held May 20 at Roy Mizell & Kurtz Worship Center with Rev. Dr. William Ramsey officiating. Interment: Forest Lawn Memorial Gardens – Central.

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!”

Q & A: What does Reverend Deal say this week!

‘A sin is a sin in God’s eye’ Question: Is there a sin greater that the other?

Answer: Romans 3:23: For all have sinned, and come short of the glory of God’. God has given a mandate that ‘a sin is a sin’ in His eyes. No matter what the particular sin is, there is no one sin greater than the other.

Scripture mentions a host of sins that God detests. In Proverbs 6:16-19; Galatians 5:1921; 1 Corinthians 6:9-10 (just to name a few) a variety of human weaknesses is mentioned. From alcohol addiction, to sleeping around, and homosexuality, etc. are all the same sins according to the Lord.

Unfortunately, man has placed sins in a categorical structure. We have the propensity to look down on someone without acknowledging our own shortcomings. The deacon exclaims” down with homosexuality” while he is sleeping with Mary, Sue and Wanda. The reverend says” getting drunk is bad in God’s eye” while he’s skimming money off the top. And sister usher is quick to frown upon a potential new member who is homeless.

In scripture Jesus is telling us not to pull the mote out of your brother’s eye, without first, pulling that beam out of your own eye. James 4:17 sums it up:’ Therefore to him that knoweth to do good, and doeth it not, to him it is sin’.

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

Cortez Kennedy, N.F.L. Hall of Fame defensive tackle, dies at 48

THOMAS Funeral services for the late Sister Carlean Thomas – 65 were held May 20 at The House of God Which is the Church of the Living God, The Pillar and Ground of the Truth Without Controversy, Inc. with General Elder Emma Lowery officiating.

WARE Funeral services for the late Dorothy Jean McClure-Ware – 65 were held May 20 at Mt. Nebo Baptist Church with Rev. R.S. Moncrief officiating. Interment: Sunset Memorial Gardens.

Roger Moore dead: ‘James Bond’ actor was 89

By Sasha Savitsky Roger Moore, best known for playing James Bond in seven of the 007 films, has died.

He was 89.

His children shared the news on his verified Twitter account Tuesday that Moore had died in Switzerland after a “short but brave battle with cancer.”

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.

(Read full story on www.thewestsidegazette.com)

Cortez Kennedy at the 2012 Pro Football Hall of Fame enshrinement ceremony.

Credit Jason Miller/Getty Images Cortez Kennedy, a 300- chosen in the 1990 N.F.L. draft pound but nimble defensive out of the University of Miami, tackle for the Seattle Sea- played his entire 11-year cahawks in the 1990s who was reer with the Seahawks. He inducted into the Pro Football was named by The AssociHall of Fame in 2012, was ated Press as the league’s found dead on Tuesday at his defensive player of the year home in Orlando, Fla. He was for the 1992 season, despite 48.

Seattle’s 2-14 record that year.

A spokeswoman for the Or- Kennedy also played in eight lando Police Department said Pro Bowls. that there was nothing suspiIn an interview with The cious about Kennedy’s death New York Times in 2015, he but that it was being investisaid that when he became a gated. He had been experiencing headaches over the past multimillionaire with his first week, his stepfather, Joe Har- contract, Mr. Harris told him ris, said in a telephone inter- to buy what he liked in his rookie season, but save money view.

Kennedy was unexpectedly afterward. So he bought six quick for his size, which en- cars — one for his mother, one abled him to explode off the for his girlfriend and four for line of scrimmage when the himself — but he sold two of ball was snapped. He became his when he saw the bill for the prototype for the strong, 300-pound-plus defensive line- the auto insurance. He admen of the 1990s in the N.F.L. hered to a rigorous budget for “I like being big because it the rest of his career.

Kennedy had 58 sacks and gives me confidence,” he told three interceptions in his caSports Illustrated in 1992, the reer.

He also returned one year he had a career-record 14 sacks. “Nobody wants to mess fumble 39 yards for a touchwith me, and it helps me play down.

Cortez Kennedy was born my position.” on Aug. 23, 1968, in Osceola, He added: “I don’t want to Ark., and grew up in nearby be thin, I don’t want to be Wilson. pretty. I just want to be the Tez.” (Read full story on Kennedy, the third player www.thewestsidegazette.com)