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THURSDA THURSDAYY, NOVEMBER 10 - WEDNESDA WEDNESDAYY, NOVEMBER 16, 2016

The headlines will either read Her-story IsMadeAgainorHis-stor-rhetoricBegins

Hillary Diane Rodham Clinton first woman presumptive President of the United States.

Days before the election, Clinton talks about criminal justice, jobs and education with the Black press

Donald John Trump, Republican nominee.

Here’s the Election Day nightmare scenario that should terrify you Editor’s note: The opinions in this article are the author’s, as published by our content partner, and do not necessarily represent the views of MSN or Microsoft.

THE MORNING PLUM: The new Washington Post/ ABC News national tracking poll finds Donald Trump leading Clinton by one point in the four-way match-up, 46-45, while Clinton leads in the headto-head by 48-47. You shouldn’t overreact to individual polls — instead, keep focused on the national and state polling averages.

But plainly, the race is tightening, and it’s increasingly possible we’ll see a very close finish. Which means that it’s

time to start pondering an Election Day nightmare scenario that is made up of two parts. First, the tight finish produces an outcome that is contested well beyond Election Day, with Trump (should he lose) claiming the results are rigged. Second, Trump supplements his claim about the rigged outcome by continuing to point to the FBI’s latest discovery of emails as proof of an ongoing cover-up of Hillary Clinton’s criminality.

This morning, election rules expert Michael McDonald argues that if the outcome is close, the election could very well “go into overtime,” adding that “in this environment,” this could “rip this country apart.”

(Cont'd on Page 5)

Hillary Clinton, Democratic presidential nominee, discusses the issues in an exclusive with veteran journalist, Cash Michaels, editor of The Carolinian in Raleigh and a Peacemaker contributor.

(The Carolinian)

By Cash Michaels (The Carolinian, NNPA Member) {RALEIGH, N.C.} In an exclusive interview with North Carolina’s African-American press, Hillary Clinton said that even though she is running to benefit all Americans, the first woman expected to be elected president of the United States on Nov. 8th does have a special focus on working with the African-American community and its leaders — both local and national — to improve employment, business, education, and other important quality of life issues.

“I want to pay particular attention to Americans who feel left out and left behind by the economy or the situation in their communities,” the

former First Lady, senator and United States Secretary of State said Oct. 23rd at St. Augustine’s University in Raleigh, a historically Black college, during perhaps one of her last sit-down interviews of the campaign.

“I’ve laid out a really extensive agenda for AfricanAmericans, starting with improving the economy so that its producing more jobs for more people; raising the national minimum wage – [we’ve] got mostly women earning minimum wage, often times being the sole support of their children, and they deserve a better economic opportunity,” she said.

Clinton also cited more affordable housing as a need.

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Pleading Our Own Cause

Congratulations to all our newly elected officials and to those who retained their seats “who has saved us and called us with a holy calling, not according to our works, but according to His own purpose and grace which was granted us in Christ Jesus from all eternity.”

2 Timothy 1:9 (NASB)

By Bobby R. Henry, Sr.

#WoC4Hillary show their support for Clinton in Washington, D.C. Women of Color for Hillary supporters hold a sign backing the Democratic candidate at a recent rally in Washington, D.C. (Reta Jo Lewis/WoC4Hillary (Read full story on Page 9)

WWW.

By the time you read this article, we would have elected a new president.

Is it over or is this the beginning of a long drawn out process that is sure to drag this country father apart if we are led by leaders who are nasty personified.

This election could pull us further apart than any other time in history.

I can think of a whole lot of analogies and allegories, the majority of which exceed the PG13 rating, to entertain myself with trying to describe the messiness of this election.

One would even dare to compare this election to choosing the lesser of two evils. And I do believe that the only way to give a better understanding to that is to exhibit of one of those traits yourself.

I know personally that I have been lied to and lied on during this election for no other reason than to discredit their opponent in hopes that I would not research their half-truths, which honestly turn out to be a boldface lie.

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(Cont'd on Page 5)

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Urgent Inc. Town Hall Meeting elevates youth voices and civic choices MIAMI, FL — “We wish it would have lasted a little longer”, a common sentiment declared by young people who attended Urgent, Inc.’s third Youth Town Hall Meeting entitled, “Bridging Policy, Youth Voice and Community Change.”

It was held on Oct. 29, 2016 at the Overtown Performing Arts

Center in Miami, Fla. There were approximately 66 young people, ages 14-24, adults and dignitaries in attendance as well as representatives from the sponsors: The Children Trust, Southeast Overtown Park West Community Redevelopment Agency and Miami Dade County.

HASTINGS’ STATEMENT ON THE PASSING OF JANET RENO — (FORT LAUDERDALE, FL) Congressman Alcee L. Hastings (D-FL) made the following statement on the passing of former U.S. Attorney General Janet Reno: “I was deeply saddened to learn of Janet Reno’s passing. She was truly a trailblazer, and as our nation’s first woman Attorney General, she served with honor, integrity and respect.” Janet Reno was recognized as one of a kind by her associates because of her ‘do the right thing’ way of thinking.

She once said, ‘I hope I do the women of America proud,’ and advocated strongly for the advancement of women’s rights.

As Attorney General, Janet Reno implemented historic legislation such as the Violence Against Women Act and the Brady background check bill, policies that have positively impacted millions of Americans and will continue to benefit generations to come. “I join with so many around the nation in mourning the loss of my friend and fellow Floridian, Janet Reno. My thoughts and prayers are with her family and friends during this time of great sadness.”

Congressman Alcee L. Hastings serves as Senior Member of the House Rules Committee, Ranking Democratic Member of the U.S. Helsinki Commission, and Co-Chairman of the Florida Delegation.

There were approximately attendance.

In a community like Overtown, where resident voices often go unheard, it is easy to see how the youth of the community feel they don’t have a voice to impact the needs of the neighborhood. However, on October 29th, their voices were not only heard, but “their voices mattered,” said moderator and media innovator Peter Bailey, creator of the critically-acclaimed NiteCap with Peter Bailey series. “I may be telling my age now, but when I was growing up, we didn’t have the Internet or social media or even activities like today. You hold the power of expression in your hand. Use it! The time is now and this is a safe place to use that power.”

Prompted by the hashtag ‘YourVoteCounts2016’, young people had the chance to vote using a sticky note on the issue that provokes the most concern.

On each wall, there were large pieces of paper with one of four titles above them: Housing

“...two so very important words...thank you.”

Celebrate 25 years of community achievements by nominating an inspiring individual for the 2017 African-American Achiever Awards. An independent panel of judges from Miami-Dade, Broward and Palm Beach counties selects honorees in the following categories:

Arts & Culture + Business & Entrepreneurism Community Service + Education

66 young people, ages 14-24, adults and dignitaries in

100 Black Men of South Florida and Miami Dade Public School presents Sixth Annual 2016 College & Career Expo

On Thursday, Nov. 3, 2016 I attended the 100 Black Men of South Florida and Miami Dade Public Schools College and Career Expo. Now at this stage in my life I sure don’t need or want to go back to college. However, I figure since I seem to be a career job seeker why not attend and maybe land a job. This event was held at the Miami-Dade County Fair and Exposition Center.

I was introduced to “THE” man, who was the organizer of the even, Jonathan L. Dotson and the VP of Operations for the South Florida Chapter. I enjoyed the time I spent with Mr. Dodson, he was warm and friendly. He took time out of the business of the day to show me around and answer my ques-tions. Although I had heard the name somewhere I wondered what is 100 Black men? Dotson explains their commitment as “100 men serving the community and doing positive things in the community, not bad, speaking life in the lives of males and females.”

Per their website, “The 100 began in 1963 in New York City when a group of concerned African American men began to meet to explore ways of improving conditions in their community. These visionaries included businessmen and industry leaders such as David Dinkins, Robert Mangum, Dr. William Hayling, Nathaniel

Goldston III, Livingston Wingate Andrew Hatcher, and Jackie Robinson. Since inception, the vision has materialized to be shared by more than 10,000 members reaching over 125,000 under-served, underepresented minority youth annually.”

Mentoring is a big part of their program. Per their website, it is the “cornerstone of 100 Black Men of America, Inc.” The group is certain that mentoring helps youths, predominantly African American males, with emotional, cultural and social aspects of a youth’s life. The group has found the mentoring program to be “an effective, evidencedbased and strategic intervention that helps youth reach their full potential and become contributing members of society.” The mentoring program encompasses four areas: Education, Economic Empowerment, Health & Wellness, and Leadership Development.

This event seemed to be a success. There appeared to be several hundred students there and they appear to be from every culture and nationality. Not only were there guys but there were plenty of gals also wondering the college and job tables. Aaah, the future leaders and professionals of tomorrow.

Thank someone today and nominate a future achiever.

AfricanAmericanAchievers.com Deadline is December 2, 2016 Sponsored by

Save the Date

African-American Achievers Awards

April 26, 2017 Broward County Convention Center For more information, visit AfricanAmericanAchievers.com, call 866-516-2497 or join us on Facebook.com/AfricanAmericanAchievers.

Conrad F. Strong Jr., of Plantation, Fla. is a graduate of South Plantation High - Class of 2014; he attends Florida Agricultural Mechanical University (FAMU) in Tallahassee, Fla. His major is Criminal Justice and his college achievements include 2015 National Honor Society and 2016 National Society of Collegiate Scholars. Graduation Year is 2018. Strong aspires to work in Law Enforcement, preferably with the DEA or FBI. His parents are Conrad & Edna Strong.

Safety/Youth Homelessness, Community Safety, Education and Employment. Housing Security/Homlessness garnered the most votes, but not by a landslide. The other issues were a close second, third and fourth.

Immediately following the vote, Peter Bailey guided a discussion with Youth Moderators LaVontay Thompson, Erica Del Villar and Elijah Calderon. LaVontay asked “Why can’t we have more jobs for the youth?” while Elijah wanted to know “ways to help students with financial issues trying to afford college.” After the thought-provoking question and answer exchange, spoken word artists Deondre Marshall and Angene Bin Aime recited poetry entitled “Senses” and “Bullets” respectively. The youth moderators and artists are members of Urgent, Inc. Rites of Passage Youth Media Project and Film, Arts, Culture and Entrepreneurship (F.AC.E.) Programs.

Immediately following the group discussion, there were breakout sessions co-facilitated by local adult leaders, University of Miami Master’s students in the Community and Social Change Program and MiamiDade County Youth Commissioners, one of whom was Shaunteria Guerriera, the current Chair of the Youth Commission.

City of Miami Commissioner Francis Suarez was able to choose the subject matter he was most passionate about, and he jumped at the chance to engage the youth on Community Safety. “Youth violence is a very big concern for me. It’s a big issue and we have to address it. I want to hear the young people’s views and opinions.”

He took a seat among seven young people that included Aaron Willis, a 19-year old who was shot in the back while riding a bicycle and is currently paralyzed. Miami Dade County Deputy Mayor Russell Benford and County Commissioner Xavier Suarez were also active participants in the sessions, lending an ear and words of wisdom when needed.

This is the first of a threepart Community Expo series intended to inspire students to conceptualize policy solutions that address their pressing issues. This was the first day of a movement allowing young people to use their voice to make a difference. Eventually, the solutions developed will go to policy makers to educate them about the issues and effect change. The next Expo event is scheduled for March 2017 during the annual This Woman’s Work Event where there will be further discussion and continued momentum around crafting policy for change.

F.A.C.E. program interns will film each event.

Annually, the Youth Town Hall Meeting has been part of Urgent Inc.’s Youth Economic Development Conference where local youth engage in critical conversations with community leaders, elected officials and institutions whose activities shape their lives and future.

Saliha Nelson, Vice President of Urgent, Inc. remarks, “We felt it important to provide a platform for youth to understand how government and institutional policy shape the experiences of youth and families. Often we hear that young people don’t care about voting or getting involved in their communities, I can tell you that our youth do care but need more opportunities to engage meaningfully in the process and that’s what our series of town hall meetings are designed to do.”

For more information on the Youth Town Hall Meeting, please email Stephanie van Vark at stephanie@stephaniecreates.com.

To learn more about Urgent, Inc. visit www.urgentinc.org.

Remember Thursday, Nov. 17, 2016 is Give Miami Day.

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NOVEMBER 10 - NOVEMBER 16, 2016 • PAGE 3

Fighting HIV in Miami, one dirty needle at a time (Last of a 3 Part Series) ‘People Are Still Dying’ No one knows exactly why Miami-Dade’s HIV infection rate remains higher than other metropolitan areas, even as medicines are better than ever, statewide rates have declined and mother-to-child transmissions — AIDS babies — are rare.

Public health officials rattle off a variety of contributing factors: Thirty-five years into this epidemic, younger people think of HIV as a treatable, chronic disease. Drugs like Truvada, which can prevent HIV infection if taken as a precaution, have added to that perception.

HIV is largely an urban disease.

Immigration brings people to Florida from places without much access to healthcare or

health education. Miami is an international party town, and the highest risk for HIV is unprotected sex, especially for men having sex with men. Testing and medication in South Florida can be difficult to find.

Also, HIV has fallen out of the headlines for the most part, added AIDS Healthcare Foundation’s advocacy and legislative affairs manager Jason King.

“People are still dying. But you don’t get the press coverage. ... So it’s not at the forefront of people’s minds.”

Stigma is part of the problem, too. If you can’t admit you have HIV, your sexual partners are probably at higher risk.

“It’s not a death sentence like before, but the stigma still exists,” said King, who is HIV

positive. “And then they have to be conscientious about disclosing it to their next partner and they fear rejection.”

That’s definitely true in Miami-Dade, said Dr. Cheryl Holder, a general internist who works at Jessie Trice Community Health Center and is an associate professor at Florida International University.

Holder says stigma, especially in the African-American community, is one of the toughest issues she combats when she sees patients with HIV. “We’re seeing changes in communities, but it’s still labeled as wrong and there’s something wrong with you. ... I still have patients who hide their medicine.”

Walking out of the health center at the end of a day not long ago, she saw one of her pa-

tients, a young man in a hoodie, waiting for a ride from a family member. “If it weren’t for his diagnosis, I would have waited with him for his family. But as I walked by, he didn’t look at me and I didn’t look at him.

And that’s when I know it’s stigma. He couldn’t just pull me over and say, this is my doctor.

We need to normalize health care so I don’t have to walk past my patient and not meet his mom.”

Raising Money In some ways, Tookes’ work starts again now. Though Congress lifted a ban on federal funding for needle exchanges late last year, no federal money can be used on needles themselves. And Florida’s bill speci-

We need less division and more unity in our politics and our country

By Armstrong Williams (NNPA Newswire Columnist) This presidential cycle has arguably brought out the very worst in our nation. Insults are hurled and people’s character is assassinated as we witness a cascade of name-calling, personal threats, intimidation, bullying, outright lying and sneering false sanctimony — and that was just during the latest presidential debate. It’s a sad commentary on the state of our union to observe the behavior of the two people who aspire to lead our country. How has it come to pass that these are the two options from which we must choose?

The nominees for president are two of the most unpopular candidates in history. Many people who are voting are not inspired to support one candidate, but are casting ballots simply to prevent the other from winning. The question of who should hold the highest office in our nation – and instantly become the most powerful person in the world – has transformed from one of who deserves this honor and can handle this responsibility to deciding who would be most likely to do the least damage. Choosing from the lesser of two evils is not an ideal situation, to say the least. Distrust toward our government is at an all-time high, and the American people are badly polarized.

As the election campaign wears on, the language is becoming more and more crass.

The attacks the candidates are leveling upon one another are becoming more and more personal. Lines have been crossed time and again, as we are no longer surprised by anything

that happens. Disgusted, perhaps, but not surprised.

The mainstream media must bear responsibility for the role it continues to play in fomenting this political blood sport. The continuous pre-debate coverage and the speculation of how the candidates might attack each other proved to be a self-fulfilling prophecy and does our country no favors. The buildup and the outrage fomented by the press serves to further polarize our country. It is reminiscent of pre-fight hype before a boxing match. On the debate stage, as in the ring, the candidates circled each other.

They swung hard and fought tooth and nail to achieve “victory.” But at what cost? The truth is that we all come out bruised and bloodied, and ultimately we all have lost.

With just weeks before the election, I pray that the presidential candidates and the American people raise ourselves from this muck and focus instead on what is truly important—the policies that will drive our nation forward, or mire us in stagnation. Instead of discussing who is more hateful and who can be nastier, let’s discuss how to boost the economy. Let’s hear serious discussions about healthcare, trade and foreign policy. Instead of beating each other down, let’s discuss how we can all play a role in keeping America at the top. The future of our country, and of the entire world, depends upon it.

Ironically, the second presidential debate fell squarely in the middle of the High Holidays, the holiest time of the year for our Jewish brothers and sisters.

During this period, between Rosh Hashanah (the Jewish new year) and Yom Kippur (the

Armstrong Williams says that instead of concentrating on our differences, let’s focus instead on our commonalities. Even Trump and Clinton agree on some issues.

Day of Atonement), the Jewish people embark on a process called teshuva, where they recognize their past mistakes and make amends for anything they have done wrong during the past year. Most importantly, they promise to try to be better in the future.

We should all try to be better in the year ahead.

Let’s elevate our rhetoric.

Instead of concentrating on our differences, let’s focus instead on our commonalities. Believe it or not, we have some. Even Trump and Clinton agree on some issues.

America is the greatest country in the world. We should not be rolling around in the gutter.

We should not allow our rhetoric to devolve into foul language and rampant disrespect for fel low citizens. I continue to believe that the majority of the American people are honest, respectful and hardworking. They do not deserve to see the very people vying for the highest office in our land to be brawling and swearing and adopting a

scorched earth approach to this election. A more dignified approach is in order and long overdue: one where the candidates share their thoughts and plans and philosophies. As Americans, we need to recognize the humanity in people who may share different thoughts about how to secure our future and ensure the best possible outcome for the generation to come.

Our electoral decisions should not hinge upon name-calling or the leaking of scandals, but by whose policies we believe have the most merit.

On November 8, we will elect a new president. That person will lead our country for the next four years. And regardless of the outcome of the election, we will have a peaceful transfer of power. That’s what this democracy does; and America is a shining example for the world. Regardless of what happens at the polls, we will need to come together, find some common ground and restore some level of decorum to our politics.

Racists burned and vandalized this Black church with ‘Vote Trump’

By Jen Nicole FB & IG @bloggerjennicole

Jose De Lemos, 53, and Hansel Tookes, M.D., a University of Miami medical resident, outside of Jackson Memorial Hospital after a recent visit. De Lemos, who has HIV, is being treated by Tookes. fies that no public money can be used for the program.

That leaves Tookes, working with UM, raising it all — about $500,000 a year. And the pressure is on: Other counties in Florida are watching to see how well the program works.

“This pilot program is going to make a big dent in the infection rate in Miami. All eyes are on us. We have to make this a success.”

He has raised $100,000 from private donors locally — including Joy Fishman, the widow of the inventor of Narcan, the “save shot” for people who are overdosing — and another $100,000 from the MAC AIDS Fund.

Nancy Mahon, global executive director of the fund, said that syringe exchanges are key to fighting HIV/AIDS. “Needle exchange programs like this halt new infections, period.

There is still work to do, but providing sterile syringes and supportive services to IV drug users is a solid step in order to begin saving lives.”

Miami-Dade’s health department is joining the effort.

“Definitely, we will be helping in any way we can,” administrator Lillian Rivera said.

“We can’t buy the syringes, but we definitely will be providing wrap-around services. As the patients come in, we will be ensuring that they will be tested for HIV and hepatitis. ... All of the services that we have will be available to the patients that come through the door.”

The IDEA Exchange, which will be run through UM, comes too late to prevent De Lemos’ infections. But it’ll help others as the 35-year war on the epidemic continues — as many as 2,000 in the first year, Tookes said. A project manager will

street cameras, even if we have to raise money as communities and pay for them ourselves. We need neighborhood watch! We need all of that, because the government doesn’t care. They don’t give a damn about Black people, facts! They aren’t sending the national guard or no one to save us, they will only send the national guard to destroy us and fight against us. Facts, from history alone. The only time they ever sent the national guard to protect Black people is when they desegregated the schools and we are long past that. So wake up Black people, what do you think these white hate groups are going to do if Trump doesn’t get elected and he probably won’t? They are coming for YOUR neighborhoods, so you better be prepared! This is the time when we cannot afford to not be on the same page. We need each other more than ever right now. I hope everyone understands that.

There’s currently a GoFundMe page to raise funds towards repairing the church.

By Amy Driscoll, Miami Herald This copyrighted story comes from the Miami Herald, produced in partnership with KHN. All rights reserved.

This article was reprinted from Kaiser Health News with permission from the Henry J. Kaiser Family Foundation.

Kaiser Health News, an editorially independent news service, is a program of the Kaiser Family Foundation, a nonpartisan health care policy research organization unaffiliated with Kaiser Permanente.

American Tennis & Education Foundation (ATEF) gets memorandum of understanding affirmed for Tennis Hall of Fame Museum at Miramar Regional Park

By Natasha S. Hampton

Donald Trumps hateful rhetoric has come to roost. White hate groups are bolder than ever now that they feel like they have a candidate on their side that might become President of The United States. This is a SERIOUS issue for the Black community, because that hateful rhetoric is spilling over to action from white hate groups, like what happened on Tuesday.

Things got REAL late Tuesday when a Black Mississippi church was burned and then vandalized with the words “Vote Trump.”

“The majority of the damage done to the Hopewell Missionary Baptist Church in Greenville, Mississippi, was done to the main sanctuary and, thankfully, there were no injuries. However, the words “Vote Trump” were spray-painted on the outside of the church, and a woman at the nearby Rose Hill Missionary Baptist Church said that the community is shocked over the arson and vandalism. The FBI told The Clarion-Ledger that they are aware of the situation and are investigating to “determine if any civil rights crimes were committed.”- thegrio.com UMMMMM HELL YEAH there were some damn civil rights crimes committed. Black people all I got to say to you is are you going to let white hate groups terrorize you and your community again??? This is 2016, we need to make sure are communities and neighborhoods, whatever the heck you think you live in, are protected. We need

start work in August, and other staff members are next. The AIDS Healthcare Foundation is donating the HIV and hepatitis C test kits with the agreement that those identified with one of the diseases will be linked with medical care. Tookes is hoping that other groups will follow.

And De Lemos — at 53, homeless no longer — will do his part, inspired by the fight of his doctor to pass the law. His viral load is so low it’s considered undetectable, and he is looking at life with new eyes. Service is part of his personal plan now.

“I really want to be a part of this needle exchange program. If he can do that, I can do anything.”

Tookes says he will measure success with each HIV test, each syringe handed out.

“This has been a long journey ... It’s a very exciting time for Miami. We’re going to save a lot of lives. We’re going to save a lot of money. We’re going to give people a lot of clean needles.

We’re going to provide HIV tests. We’re going to get people into treatment ... We’re going to change the world.”

Recently, City of Miramar Elected Officials passed a vote of confidence in support of a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) between the City of Miramar and the American Tennis & Education Foundation, Inc. (ATEF), a Florida Notfor-Profit Corporation and Member Club of the American Tennis Association.

The non-binding MOU lays the foundation of the ATEF’s unsolicited proposal that includes locating the ATEF National Tennis Center, Tennis Hall of Fame Museum, and a Hotel at Miramar Regional Park (16801 Miramar Parkway).

This project would be inclusive of an American Tennis Association (ATA)/ATEF Administrative Office and a National Training and Competition Facility subject to City zoning and other applicable rules and regulations.

The MOU was requested as a progressive step to memorializ-

ing an outline on the project’s scope, anticipated construction, funding schedules, and estimated costs during a Commission workshop on July 6, 2016.

“The potential of Miramar to be the home of the American Tennis Association and Black Tennis Museum is amazing.

This development is consistent with the expansion of cultural tourism in Broward County and the vision of making Miramar a destination city, while offering access to the highest level of tennis training to our Miramar community. Our Commission is committed to the thorough vetting of this opportunity and looks forward to the formal proposal,” stated City of Miramar Mayor Wayne Messam.

For the best in Sports and Cultural Entertainment……. It’s Right Here in Miramar.®

THE WESTSIDE GAZETTE SALUTE OUR VETERANS

PAGE 4 • NOVEMBER 10 - NOVEMBER 16, 2016

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Donation

Drive

International Benevolent and Protective Order of Elks, request for a donation for our Veterans Day event, Friday, Nov. 11, 2016 at Elks Lodge, 712 N.W. Second St., Fort Lauderdale, Fla. For additional info call Marjester Thomas at (954) 735-5717.

Ceremony

Elks Lodge Thanksgiving Food Drive, requesting donations of non-perishable food items, canned goods including turkey and ham to give to families in need during the holiday season, you can bring items to Elks Lodge now or by Friday, Nov. 18 to be distributed to families Saturday, Nov. 19, 2016 at 712 N.W. Second St., Fort Lauderdale, Fla. For more info contact Harry Hippie at (786) 597-6865.

Workshop Pride of Fort Lauderdale Elks Annual Veteran’s Day Ceremony, Friday, Nov. 11, 2016 at 11 a.m., at 712 N.W. Second St., Fort Lauderdale, Fla. Chief Floyd Jordan, Former Fire Chief of Miami Beach and Former Fire Chief of Boynton Beach, Fla. Free of charge. For more info call (954) 463-7474.

Shows

Miami Gardens Beautiful presents Trashion/Fashion Show, Tuesday, Nov. 15, 2016 at 5:30 p.m., at Betty T. Ferguson Recreational Complex 3000 N.W. 199 St., Miami Gardens, Fla.

The School Board of Broward County, Florida, Office of the Superintendent, School Board Workshop on Monday, Nov. 14, 2016 at 10 a.m., at Kathleen C. Wright Administration Center, 600 S.E. Third Ave., Board Room, Fort Lauderdale, Fla. Preliminary Information: These are working documents in draft form and subject to change topics are for discussion purpose only and will not be voted on at the workshop.

Bible Study

Exhibit

“Invisual: The works of Goldstein and Nicola” Art Exhibit, thru Monday, Dec. 12, 2016. November at the Bailey Contemporary Arts showcases powerful work from two very different artists tackling the same phenomenon: invisibility. Dates and hours of admission available online. For additional info call (954) 2840141.

Event

In honor of the men and women who have served the United States through military services, American Legion Post and Auxiliary Unit 29 will join fellow Legionaries and ALA members across the country in celebrating dedication and sacrifice by honoring Community Veterans, Friday on Nov. 11, 2016 at 11 a.m., at 806 N.W. First St., Dania Beach, Fla.

Class Activities Attention the Classes of 1971 and 1973 · Next Class Meeting, Saturday on Nov. 12, 2016 at 9 a.m., at Golden Corral, 7401 W. Comm. Blvd., Tamarac, Fla., a breakfast meeting. · Beginning, Wednesday on Nov. 16, 17 and 18 Food Drive for Thanksgiving Baskets, from 6 to 7 p.m., at Black Firefighters Hall, 309 S.W. 26 St., Fort Lauderdale, Fla. We will began collecting nonperishable foods and gifts certificates for our annual Baskets for needy families. For additional info call Betty at (954) 629-7907. Basket will be distributed on Monday on Nov. 21, 2016. · Game Night, Friday, Nov. 18 from 7 p.m. – until, at the Black Firefighters Hall, 309 S.W. 26 St., Fort Lauderdale, Fla. · Annual Toy Drive on Wednesday, Dec. 14, 15, and 16, from 6 to 7 p.m., at the Black Firefighters Hall, 309 S.W. 26 St., Fort Lauderdale, Fla. We will began our Annual Toy Drive. Accepted donation of wrapped and labeled toys for girl and boys, preschool to second grade. · Class Christmas Holiday Party on Saturday, Dec. 17, 2016. Further info TBA.

Happy Veterans Day From the Staff and Management of the Westside Gazette Newspaper

Touch Weekly Event

Series

· Join the kick-off event of Neighborhood Nights! This free family-friendly block party, Friday on Nov, 11, 2016 from 5 to 9 p.m., at The Dania Beach PATCH, 1201 W. Dania Beach Blvd., Dania Beach, Fla. · Open Enrollment has begun on Nov. 1, 2016 through Jan. 31, 2017. Learn about 2017 Health Insurance Marketplace plans, Saturday, Nov. 12, 2016 from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m., at Lauderhill Mall, 1229 N.W. 40 Ave., Lauderhill, Fla. Visit www.healthcare.gov to preview 2017 plans and prices. · Join Congresswoman Debbie Wasserman Schultz, Saturday on Nov. 12, 2016 at 10 a.m., at Nova Southeastern University, 3301 College Ave., Fort Lauderdale, Fla. · Harvest Festival, Saturday on Nov. 19, 2016 from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m., at The Dania Beach PATCH, 1201 W. Dania Beach Blvd., Dania Beach, Fla. · Eight Annual Pre-Thanksgiving Weekend Healthy Family Health Fair, Saturday on Nov. 19, 2016 from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m., at African-American Research Library and Cultural Center, 2650 Sistrunk Blvd., Fort Lauderdale, Fla. For additional info call (954) 767-8803.

School Board Members, Superintendent Robert W. Runcie, students, District staff, parents and community members, The Next Gen Engage town hall series, Thursday, Nov. 10, 2016 at 5 p.m., at Coral Glades High School, 2700 Sportsplex Dr., Coral Springs, Fla. For additinal info call (754) 321-2608.

Fest

Givingaway

On Monday, Nov. 14,2016 at 6 p.m., at the African-American Research Library and Cultural Center (7 HBCU Alumni will be giving away Thanksgiving Basket. Each Chapter has a list of people that will receive basket.

The HBCUS include the following: Bethune Cookman; Tennessee State; Florida Memorial; Hampton University; Howard University; Allen University; Florida A&M University

For the Love of Torah – Bible Study a new Torah/Bible study is forming in the Fort Lauderdale area. Starting Monday, Nov. 21, 2016 at 7:30 p.m. For more info call (954) 401-5750 or email fortheloveoftorah@gmail.com.

Correction There was an error in the November 3, 2016 Edition the article entitled "Dear Broward County Community Leaders" the Initials should have been BCDI (The Black Child Development) instead of BDCI.

Pleading Our Own Cause STAYCONNECTED--www.thewestsidegazette.com

Support People Helping People Outreach Center, Inc., need your help to bless needy families with Thanksgiving Dinner.

P.H.P. are asking you to please buy a store gift card and or a turkey from the store of your choice. P.H.P. would like to thank you in advance for sharing and being a blessing. P.H.P. also invites you to join us in feeding the Homeless on Saturday the day after Thanksgiving, dinner from 12-2 p.m. Volunteers and donations are needed. For more info call (954) 527-0414.

The community is invited free of charge to the Fourth Annual Community Health & Wellness Fest on Saturday on Nov. 19, 2016 from 10 a.m. to 1:30 p.m., at E. Pat Larkins Community Center, 520 MLK Blvd., Pompano Beach, Fla.

Distribution

Wayne Barton Study Center’s Good News of Christ Ministries, Free Grocery Giveaway Food Distribution, on Saturday, Nov. 19, 2016 from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m., at Sanctuary Church, 1400 N. Federal Hwy., Fort Lauderdale, Fla. (Everyone is welcome, Bring bags or carts to carry your food). For additional info call (561) 620-6203.

Celebration

Celebrate Thanksgiving Monday on Nov. 21, 2016 from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m., at Bernard Alicki Health Center (Little House), 1101 W. Broward Blvd.

Thursday, Thanksgiving Day on Nov. 24, at 11 a.m., at The Salvation Army Church, 100 S.W. Ninth Ave., Broward & Ninth Ave., Fort Lauderdale, Fla. (No to-go meals), this is a sit-down dinner).

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. · Wednesday, Nov. 9 – Storybook Marking from 3:30 to 6 p.m. Open to parents/caregiver and their children in Second to six grades. Pre-registration is advised call (954) 357-6209 · Monday, Nov. 14 - Ashley Bryan Art Collection, from 6:30 to 7:30 p.m. · Tuesday, Nov. 15, 22, 29 – “Dollars Sense” from 4 to 5 p.m., sessions are free of charge and open to children agers 7 -10, pre-registration is preferred, call (954) 357-6209 to register . Changing America - New Traveling Exhibit at AARLCC tells a story of Liberty and the American Experience on Wednesday, Nov. 16, 2016. · Thursday, Nov. 17 – Make a Family Holiday Craft, open to all ages, from 10:30 a.m. to 12 noon. · Mondays in November – Adult Literacy Classes from 5:30 to 7:30 p.m. · Saturday, Nov. 12 & 26 – Knight with the Queen: Free chess lessons for ages 7 & up, from 1 to 3:30 p.m. · Monday, Nov. 14 – Marketing 101, from 6 to 7:30 p.m. · Wednesday, Nov. 16 – Business Seminar, Reference USA for small businesses, from 6 to 7:30 p.m. · Thursday, Nov. 17 – Exhibit Opening Reception at 6 p.m.

Remarks by Prof. Jean-Bart. · Friday, Nov. 18 – Destination Fridays: Madrid Spain ages 21 and over from 6:30 to 9:30 p.m., payable at the door on online through Eventbrite. · Saturday, Nov. 19 – The National Aid Foundation with the AARLCC is holding a Healthy Family Health Fair and First Time Homebuyer Housing Fair, both beginning at 10 a.m. · Saturday, Nov. 19 – International Game Day, from 2:30 to 5:30 p.m., with a variety of classic board games. You’re welcome to B.Y.O. games to share. · Tuesday, Nov. 22 – “Holiday Story Time” children of all ages, from 5 to 5:45 p.m. Call (954) 357-6209 to pre-register · Monday, Nov. 28 – Business Se-minar: Grant Writing 101, from 6 to 7:30 p.m. · Wednesday, Nov. 30 – Movie night for adults, featu-ring longer films, presented by the Miami Sci-Fi International Film Festival from 5 to 7:30 p.m.

Free Adult Computer Classes Schedule · Monday, Nov. 14 – Microsoft Word II, from 6 to 7:30 p.m. . Monday, Nov. 21 – Mavis Beacon Typing from 6 to 7:30 p.m. · Monday, Nov. 28 – Computer Literacy I, from 6 to 7:30 p.m.

For additional info on children and teen programs and free classes call (954) 357-6209 or (954) 357-6236. Need free help with resume writing? Inquire at the Computer of Reference Info Desk.

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Westside Gazette

NOVEMBER 10 - NOVEMBER 16, 2016 • PAGE 5

New YYork ork AG AG,, CFPB join forces to fight illegal national debt collection scheme

By Charlene Crowell (NNPA Newswire Columnist) A new federal lawsuit alleges that since at least 2009, two major players in the debt collection industry have illegally operated, harassed, threatened and deceived millions of consumers across the country – often for debts that were either inflated or not even owed. The scheme based in Buffalo, New York, also netted tens of millions of dollars in revenue each year.

The case seeks to shut down the illegal scheme, secure compensation for victims and assess civil penalties against the companies and its partners.

On November 2, New York’s Attorney General Eric Schneiderman and Richard Cordray, Director of the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau, filed charges against the scheme’s two principals, Douglas MacKinnon and Mark Gray. “[W]e are taking action against the ringleaders of this

operation,” noted Director Cordray, “so they can no longer prey upon vulnerable consumers.”

“Living with debt is difficult enough, without the added stress of being harassed and threatened by debt collectors,” Attorney General Schneiderman said. “These collection shops inflated debts, threatened victims and deceived them out of millions. This suit sends the message that debt collectors that employ abusive tactics will be held accountable.”

In recent years, debt collection abuses have emerged as a growing consumer finance issue for communities of color.

Both research and investigative news have found that consumers of color, along with low and middle-income communities are frequently targets of collection lawsuits that today represent a still-growing $13 billion industry.

According to the lawsuit, MacKinnon and Gray operate

a network of at least 60 fly-bynight collection shops to collect on large debt portfolios purchased by three interrelated firms: Northern Resolution Group, Enhanced Acquisitions and Delray Capital, all based in Buffalo, New York. Mac-Kinnon and Gray created, operated and oversaw the illegal operation.

Among the actions cited as illegal violations included: • Falsely threatening legal action; • Impersonating law enforcement officials, government agencies and court officers; and • Inflating consumer debts and misrepresentations of amounts consumers owed.

These kinds of actions violate both the Fair Debt Collection Practices Act and the DoddFrank Wall Street Reform and Consumer Protection Act. Enacted in 1978, the Fair Debt Collection Practices Act protects consumers from abusive

Charlene Crowell says that in recent years, debt collection abuses have emerged as a growing consumer finance issue for communities of color. or deceptive fraud in debt collection practices. It applies

only to the collection of debt incurred by a consumer primarily for personal, family, or household purposes. Two of its most important provisions are that a debt collector cannot phone a consumer’s residence before 8 a.m. or after 9 p.m.; nor attempt to contact a consumer at their place of employment.

Similarly, the Dodd-Frank Wall Street Reform and Consumer Protection Act specifically bans unfair and deceptive acts or practices in the consumer financial marketplace in a variety of lending areas that include mortgages, student loans, debt collection and others.

Last year, CFPB returned $360 million to consumers wronged by unlawful debt collection practices and collected over $79 million in fines. In addition, the Federal Trade Commission separately received approximately 900,000 consumer complaints on debt collection.

In recent comments to the CFPB, the Center for Responsible Lending advised, “CRL strongly supports the concept that a debt collector must possess a reasonable basis for making a claim that an individual owes a debt . . . . The burden rightfully should be on debt collectors to establish that they have the legal right to collect the debts and are collecting from the right people, for the right amount of money.”

For Lisa Stifler, CRL’s deputy director of state policy, the joint action taken by New York’s Attorney General and CFPB is representative of what should happen more often to better protect all consumers.

“Consumers need the protection of both state officials and CFPB to rid the marketplace of bad actors and illegal debt collection practices. It’s an encouraging sign that one of our most populous states is working in concert with CFPB to end financial abuse. It’s an example worth emulating by other states.”

The 2016 Pr esidential Election exposed America’ chy for the world to see Presidential America’ss racist and sexist patriar patriarchy

By Julianne Malveaux (NNPA Newswire Columnist) Just a few days before the corrosive 2016 election, it occurs to me that no matter what the outcome, our social fabric has been shredded by the ugliness of this campaign.

Sure, there have been ugly campaigns before, but this one has revealed the extent to which racism and sexism are acceptable features of life in these United States.

Women, including Hillary Clinton, have been routinely disparaged, not only in politics, but also in their roles as television talking heads and anchors. While I’m not weeping for Megyn Kelly (she’s a big girl, and she can take care of herself), her on-air collision with Newt Gingrich was classic, with a jowly male bully loudly talking over a television host and accusing her of being “obsessed” with sex. And the disparagement of women flowed down the ticket – in Illinois, Senator Mark Kirk (R-Ill.) had the nerve to disparage challenger Rep. Tammy Duck-worth (D-Ill.) because of her Thai heritage.

Her dad traces his family’s

military service back to the eighteenth century, while her Mom is from Thailand. When she cited her military background, Kirk nastily said he was unaware that her family had come all the way from Thailand to fight for the United States. Shame on Kirk for demonstrating his ignorance by criticizing the military service of a woman who lost both her legs in the Iraq war.

All’s fair, they say, in love and war, and many see politics as a special kind of war. And certainly, those women who play the politics game have to have thick skin and broad shoulders, because men are not likely to treat women with kid gloves because of their gender.

However, gendered criticism (“she lacks stamina,” “look at that face”) is woven into the fabric of our nation’s racist patriarchy, and the “other” (women, people of color) is often put down using gendered or racialized code words. In some cases, as with Tammy Duckworth, people don’t even bother to use code words.

The backlash from eight years of the Obama presidency means that plenty of racists

MALVEAUX have come out to play. I thought we’d seen the last of David Duke, the reported KKK member who is again running for the U.S. Senate from Louisiana. Instead, he seems to have slithered from under some rock, just in time to endorse Donald Trump, throw shade on Evan McMullin (the Utah native and former CIA opera-tive who is running a long-shot campaign for President), and attack Jewish people. Most listeners recoiled from Duke’s hateful

words, and the Trump campaign quickly distanced itself from the Duke endorsement.

Shocking, though, that this level of racist hate is so openly articulated. And Mr. Trump’s racial rhetoric suggests that the Duke endorsement, if unwelcome, was at least somewhat consistent with that which Mr. Trump has been preaching.

The use of terms like “law and order” or “stop and frisk” ignores the issues the Black Lives Matter Movement has raised, not the least of which are the police killings of young Black people. And the Black Lives Matter Movement has been routinely been disparaged during this 2016 campaign. The disparagement of the Black Lives Matter Movement really disparages all Black people and reminds us that, despite progress, race still matters.

If racism and sexism are woven into the fabric of our nation, how do we pull those threads out without ruining the fabric? Or has the fabric already been so fully shredded that we have the opportunity to “start over.” Actually, there will be no starting over. Our economic structure and the credo of

Here’s the Election Day nightmare scenario that should terrify you (Cont'd from FP) McDonald posits that in a very close finish, Trump could be favored on election night, but over subsequent days, as the vote counting continues afterwards, Clinton might then edge into the lead: “A Democratic shift from election night to the final tally of votes is predictable. All states count some ballots late, and those tend to break towards Democrats. Nothing nefarious occurs: the casting and counting follow procedures laid out in state law. Some of the states that count more late ballots are key battlegrounds, magnifying the suspense on Election Night.

“Mail ballots are one of two types that can shift election results. Many states require mail ballots to be received by election officials on Election Day. Others continue to accept ballots postmarked on Election Day, up to two weeks following the election. Among these states are Iowa, North Carolina, Ohio, and Wisconsin.

“These late ballots may break towards the Democrats. My analysis shows more Democrats than Republicans in Iowa and North Carolina have yet to return their mail ballots. Why? These voters tend to be younger people who tend to return their ballots later. If Trump is slightly ahead in a late mail-ballot

return state, he could fall behind after all the mail ballots are counted.

“Then there are provisional ballots. States are required under federal law to provide them to anyone with a problem at the polls — a voter who doesn’t have the required form of ID, for instance, or whose name is missing from the voter registration rolls. Election officials review provisional ballots and allow voters to clarify their eligibility after Election Day. In the four states that report separate results for provisional ballots, the voters who cast them broke strongly for the Democrats. So if the presidential race is particularly close, provisional ballots could tilt it.”

There’s still more in the link, but you get the idea. Meanwhile, Bloomberg Politics reports that both sides are now gearing up in a serious way for the possibility of a legally contested outcome.

All of that is worrying enough, because as you’ll recall, Trump has refused to say that he’ll accept the outcome if he loses. Even when he clarified this, he explicitly left open the possibility that he would legally contest the outcome if the result is “questionable,” reserving, of course, the right to define what counts as “questionable” for himself. It’s Trump’s right to contest a close, legally murky

loss. But, given his continuing insistence that the election is “rigged,” it’s plausible he may go a lot further, and launch a sustained campaign well outside of conventional channels to cast Clinton as an illegitimate president, no matter what our political norms and the electoral and legal realities actually dictate.

What’s more, you cannot mull this possibility without also connecting it to the ongoing battle over the new emails discovered by the FBI. As I’ve noted, Trump is now explicitly arguing to his followers that FBI director James Comey has two choices — either he discovers new evidence of Clinton’s criminality in the discovered emails, or Trump will revert to casting Comey as a participant in a cover-up of that criminality that is designed to deliver the election to Clinton.

And there is no obvious way for Comey to resolve this problem. Or, at least, there is no obvious way to resolve it — short of turning up something new and incriminating in the emails, which can’t be ruled out — that would avert an outcome that Trump casts as corrupt and illegitimate. If Comey announces before the election that he has found no new grounds to revisit his July decision not to recommend charges against Clinton — and if Trump loses — Trump will claim that

Comey’s finding was rigged to help elect her president. If Comey does not announce any new finding from the emails — and if Trump loses — Trump will claim that Comey’s failure to produce anything in time was rigged to help elect her president. And then, if and when Comey does eventually clear her, that, too, will constitute still more evidence that the system is rigged, and thus more grounds for grievance.

Many Republican voters will accept whichever of these explanations is relevant. See how this works?

Add to all of this the fact that Trump and his campaign CEO Stephen Bannon are reportedly looking to convert the campaign into a vehicle for sustaining a post-election following. All of these narratives could then converge and become the fuel to drive that vehicle forward. And so, it’s not hard to see a close finish producing an aftermath that gets very ugly and destructive. Which is exactly what Trump would relish.

THE WESTSIDE GAZETTE SALUTES OUR VETERANS

predatory capitalism depend on the ability of capitalists to extract surplus value from the work of those that are “other.”

Capitalists maximize profits by minimizing expenses. Thus enslavement, though an inhumane institution, was also an efficient one for those who were able to use free labor. We’ve come a long way from enslavement, but the exploitation of workers continues, which is why the “Fight for $15,” which will disproportionately benefit women and people of color, is so important.

This 2016 election has put

many of our national wounds, and much of our fractured history, on display. Is there healing after all of this divisiveness?

Washington gridlock isn’t likely to stop just, because the election is over. Still, there must be leaders who are willing to talk solutions. When does our nation finally confront race and talk about reparatory justice? When do we, culturally, talk about sexism and the pay gap that remains, despite women’s progress? Or will we continue to limp along, wounds exposed, the fabric so frayed that it can’t be stitched back together?

Congratulations to all our newly elected officials and to those who retained their seats (Cont'd from FP) The opportunity will present itself for this lie to resurface; that’s just the way politricks are.

I don’t know which is worse: to be taken for granted or to be taken for a fool.

This election has left a nasty taste in the mouth of many people. This bad taste has drowned out and almost washed away the sensational flavors of this country. It’s a taste of distrust. When I was a Teen we used to sing this limerick in the tune of Please Don’t Leave Girl. “I know your breath is stink and I refuse to lend you my Scope. If you have to beg please for my Listerine I don’t mind cause you need it more than me. Not a sip not a swallow but the hold darn bottle.”

America can use a good ol fashion mouthwash.

I know in reference to the saying, “that it always gets the darkest just before the dawn” and I truly do understand and believe that “this too shall pass”. I just believe there are enough of us who can hold on and believe that God is still in control no matter what.

I’m sure when the shoe was on the other foot and there were people of a different hue and a dissimilar attitude who believed that there would never be a Black man elected to the president of this country, and I’m sure they voted as such. And now here we are and I’m sure there are lots of people who believe that a woman would never be the president of this country. However, I certainly believe that God has the final say so. So it is in that vein that I am willing to except the leadership that has been put in place to lead us, no matter how many lies may have been told.

I know I have to do my part in holding those accountable in leadership. WHAT ARE YOU GOING TO DO?.

It is better to take refuge in the Lord Than to trust in man.

Psalm 118:8 (NASB) Dear God as you give us our daily bread, we pray that Your will allows us to grow into Your worthiness, teaching us to “Trust in the Lord with all our heart And do not lean on our own understanding.” Amend.

WHERE GOD LEADS I WILL FOLLOW

In Observance of Veterans Day The Westside Gazette will be closed Friday, Nov. 11, 2016

PAGE 6• NOVEMBER 10 - NOVEMBER 16, 2016

Opinion

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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.

The Gantt Report

Why Blacks and Native Americans feel the American Flag is offensive

By Tony Barrs, Guest Columnist B.S., Political Science, 1986 Florida A & M University Blacks and Native Americans have a perfect right to be offended by the American National Anthem and Flag, respectively. Humor me and take a minute to truly consider the legitimate history regarding the National Anthem also known as “The StarSpangled Banner”.

Originally, this poem was written

by Francis Scott Key titled, “The Defence of Fort McHenry” on September 13, 1814. Key was trapped aboard a British ship negotiating the release of a prisoner (not a slave), while British warships were bombing the Baltimore, Maryland harbor at Fort McHenry for over 24 hours. Key realized that if the slaves made it to the British ships, they would gain their freedom.

Unfortunately for the enslaved, the next day Key saw the “dawn’s early light” and the large US garrison flag

was still standing. The Americans managed to survive the battle and defeat the British.

This poem celebrated the American victory and forewarned the slaves that they would be duly punished for conspiring with the British to escape bondage. His original words read, “No refuge could save the hireling and slave from the terror of flight, or the gloom of the grave. And the star-spangled banner in triumph doth wave O’er the land of the free and the home of the brave.” What is even more bizarre is discovery that the tune is a sample of a drinking song called “Anacreon in Heaven” composed in the 1770’s by John Stafford Smith, which was swiped from 6th Century Greek poet Anacreon.

Francis Scott Key was a slaveowner, racist lawyer from an old Maryland plantation family whose riches derived from the bounty of the slave industry. Key once stated that Africans in America were “a distinct and inferior race of people, which all expe-

rience proves to be the greatest evil that afflicts a community.” It should be noted that Key died defending his belief that the institution of slavery should remain legal forever. Therefore, the National Anthem should not be acknowledged in any public American setting.

Now, I ask you to consider the actual meaning of the colors of the flag.

As you are about to read, this could be regarded racist as well.

On June 20, 1782, when the flag was approved by the Continental Congress, Charles Thomson, who served as secretary, articulated the significance of the colors as follows: white represented purity and innocence as well as lack of guilt or sin; red was for hardiness and valor; while blue stood for vigilance, perseverance and justice. The 13 red and white stripes represent the 13 colonies which all thrived from the institution of slavery slated to have begun in 1619, over a century before the flag was ratified. Since this is a fact, how could the flag represent

purity, innocence and justice? There exists no federal law, resolution or executive order providing an official reason for the colors or their real meaning.

Before you judge people as unpatriotic and disrespectful to our military, ponder the thought that before America can truly unite, it must have national symbols reflecting the same.

The time has come where we must seek legislation to design a new flag and compose a National Anthem that truly embodies freedom, liberty, justice and equality for all American citizens.

(Buy Lucius Gantt’s latest book, “Beast Too: Dead Man Writing” onAmazon.com and from bookstores everywhere. Contact Lucius at www.allworldconsultants.net .

And, if you want to,”Like” The Gantt Report page on Facebook.)

Gloucester County School Board v. G.G.

Will Blacks surrender the power of their vote?

By: Duvalier Malone We are in the middle of a historic election, where every vote literally matters. Democrats and Republicans both feel that the more voters come out, the better their opportunities are to take the White House as well as the ‘downriver’ political positions in Congress.

This election has had so many unsettling and uncomfortable aspects: A touch of racism, a pinch of bigotry and xenophobia, a smidgen of alleged criminal activities, and a dash of FBI probing. When all is said and done, this election cycle will go down in history as one of the most divisive campaigns to date.

But even though there’s so much on the line, record voter turnout is certainly not a given. There are some in the Black community that are choosing to sit out this election, stating that their vote does not count.

This is extremely disconcerting. For Blacks in Mississippi to say that our vote doesn’t count is the epitome of insult to all those civil rights luminaries who paved the way for us to become equal citizens in this country. It’s a slap in the face to them. For those that lost their lives, it’s the same as if your finger was on the trigger of the fatal weapon. It’s the same as if you fired the shot that killed Medgar Evers and stunted his brilliant legacy before his time.

If we seek change, then that change starts with each of us. If you feel that your needs are not being addressed, then you can’t refuse to take advantage of your rights. You have to grab your power at the ballot box, and vote for who you feel will make a realistic change for you and your community.

It starts at the presidency, but it doesn’t stop there. While the president sets the national agenda of the country, your representative, senator, governor, mayor and other local politicians affect you and your community directly.

The collective power in our community through our vote is amazing.

We have the power to create change for ourselves, if we so choose. Many of us look at issues such as the Con-

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.

federate battle flag emblem on the Mississippi state flag, and we don’t realize that the only reason that emblem is still on our flag is because we didn’t come out and vote during the flag referendum of 2001. When courageous lawmakers did their part and got the issue on the ballot, many Blacks in Mississippi didn’t fulfill our part of the bargain. We didn’t come out and show the support for those leaders, and therefore this symbol of bigotry and hate is still displayed on our state flag.

There are those that are seeking to suppress the African American vote.

They wouldn’t be doing this if they didn’t realize something that we take for granted: The fact that our vote is powerful. If we just take our power from those who want to take advantage of us, then we can voice our opinion to the world through our vote.

This election has been steered in a way to depress our morale. The goal is to make us feel that we shouldn’t vote.

Are we willing to surrender to those who wish to deprive us of our rights as American citizens?

If we do, then when our children ask us the hard questions such as: Who shot Martin Luther King Jr.?

Who shot Medgar Evers?

Our only reply should be, “We did.”

Because for us to soil their memory and the cause that they gave their lives for, is the same as killing them all over again.

By Don Valentine The U.S. Supreme Court agreed to hear Gloucester County School Board v. G.G., a case concerning a school district’s obligation to accommodate a transgender student under Title IX and the U.S. Education Department’s implementing regulations on bathrooms transgender people can use.

This is an extremely controversial topic. Concisely put, it is a simple binary decision support access or not.

What do you think?

The first argument is a compassionate position that transgender people should have access to whichever facility they choose. A strong argument is made here that it is just a lavatory. Then no fuss is necessary about who uses what. Europe and more cosmopolitan cities in the U.S. have unisex bathrooms.

That is a reasonable position. When have you ever been concerned about the person in the stall next to you?

Which leads to the question of why all this consternation and palaver.

Shouldn’t the Supreme Court be concerned with more pressing issues?

The divergent view is logically concluded by a fact of nature. No matter how much vanity surgery you want to do to yourself, you can’t change your D.N.A. If you don’t have a “Y” chromosome, then you’re female. Women, as you may recall, are born with the “X-X” chromosome pattern. Men have the “X-Y” pattern.

We as a society are evolving to be more tolerant of people’s freedom.

You’re free to live your life in almost any way you want as long as you don’t impinge on someone else’s freedoms. However, it is a fallacious argument to say that your decision in this topic is biological. It is a selective decision.

Moreover, to equate this struggle with the tribulations African Americans are continuing on 400 years to be treated as equal humans is laughable. Black people can’t change their dress and cross back into the mainstream populace. Melanin does not wash off like make up. We are born Black people and deal with the perils until we die Black. Given your finances you can change your mind at any point on reversing the vanity surgery. To close, what do you think the Supreme Court should decide?

Me, just approve the law and keep it moving!

Can Americans feel proud about the 2016 Presidential Election?

By Roger Caldwell “To publishers- This Article was written Before the Final Vote Count.”

The 2016 election is over, and Hillary Clinton is the 45th President of the United States. She will be the first woman president in the history of America, and she has broken the glass ceiling.

Many question what has transpired in the last 5 days of the election, but dirty politics and a misrepresentation of facts has dominated speeches and the tone of this election. But the most favorable choice has won, and America is moving forward.

If you are a believer, right overcomes wrong. Together we will make a more perfect union, and Hillary Clinton is the right woman for the job of President of the United States.

Americans are too smart and the country refused to be bamboozled and fooled into thinking that a man with no political experience should be commander-in-chief. Even though it appeared dirty and corrupt politics was going to change truth into a lie, Americans have come too far to turn back now.

Republican nominee, Donald Trump, has operated with no principles and built the final weeks of his campaign on dirty hacked leaks and negative allegations that Hillary Clinton is a criminal. This is unprecedented in a presidential election, and Trump has no knowledge or experience in any political arena. Sixty-three (63) percent of Americans have a negative view of Trump based on his actions and his history, according an associated press poll.

Instead of the Presidential campaign being a discussion about policies and ideas for the future, Trump and his team turned the election into a criminal witch hunt. There was little discussion on his part about his platform and policies, and according to the associated press poll, fifty-six (56) percent of Americans have a negative view of Clinton based on scandals.

Trump made a concerted effort to make this election about scandals and the Clinton political machine, but his company had no history of supporting Republicans and supporting crisis such as 9-11. Hillary was busy securing $20 billion to rebuild New York, and Trump was busy securing $150,000 from government funding for his properties.

As the race got closer, the last four days President Obama, and Clinton’s surrogates and ground game made the difference in the election.”Souls to the Polls” and the Hispanic voters helped put Clinton in office. When the Vice Presidential candidate Tim Kaine delivered full speeches in Spanish, there was no question who they were voting for.

“Make America Great Again” is only a code slogan to “Make America White Again” which is why the KKK’s official newspaper endorsed Trump.

Trump was an accident waiting to happen, and many who voted for him appear to have had no idea what he would do to destroy America had he won.

It is so easy to talk about repealing the Affordable Care Act, instead of talking about improving something that is working. There are over 20 million Americans receiving healthcare insurance…. Why not try to make it better?

The 2016 presidential campaign will go down in history as a reality television show star, Donald Trump, fooling White America that he could bring back the good old days. The good old days were when White people controlled everything through the power of the gun, their religion and violence.

People of color in America and around the globe are no longer afraid of white people because whites are the minority around the world, and soon they will be in America.

The 2016 election proved and confirmed that there are leaders in both parties working to misrepresent taxpayers. Hillary has good policies and ideas for America, and we have a responsibility to hold her feet to the fire. Every leader has made mistakes, and Hillary is the best candidate in 2016 for the position of President of the United Sates.

Hillary must prove that she can be trusted, and show Americans that she is keeping “hope alive.”

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

Church Directory

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

Dr. Marcus D. Davidson, Senior Pastor

Worship 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

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!

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"

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

Rev. Dr. Jimmie L. Brown Senior Pastor

SERVICES

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

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

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

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

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.

James C. Boyd Funeral Home BELLIE Funeral services for the late Joe Lee Bellie – 74.

CARTER Funeral services for the late Willie B. Carter – 79 were held Nov. 5 at New Covenant Deliverance Cathedral Church with Corey Thomas officiating. Interment: Sunset Memorial Gardens.

HUGHES Funeral services for the late Eartha Mae Hughes were held Nov. 5 at First Baptist Church Piney Grove with Rev. Dr. Ralph Douglass West officiating. Interment: Interment: Sunset Memorial Gardens.

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.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”

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

Williams Memorial CME “PRAYER IS THE ANSWER”

Reverend Jimmy L. English PASTOR

NOVEMBER 10 - NOVEMBER 16, 2016 • PAGE 7

JONES Funeral services for the late James Edward Jones - 65 were held Nov. 5 at James C. Boyd’s Memorial Chapel with Pastor Stacie Flounory officiating. Interment: Sunset Memorial Gardens.

LACUE Funeral services for the late Roger Del LaCue – 56 were held Nov. 4 at James C. Boyd Funeral Home.

LEVINE Funeral services for the late Christopher Lee Levine – 49 were held Nov. 5 at James C. Boyd’s Memorial Chapel with Brother Bon M. Boyd officiating. Interment: Westview Cemetery.

SMITH Funeral services for the late Lesia Monick Smith – 43 were held Nov. 5 at James C. Boyd’s Memorial Chapel with Evangelist Essie L. Baker officiating. Interment: Westview Cemetery.

liams – 61 were held Nov. 4 at Piney Grove First Baptist Church with Bishop Jimmie L. Williams officiating. Interment: Forest Lawn Memorial Gardens South.

YELDELL Funeral services for the late Donald Albert Yeldell – 57.

McWhite's Funeral Home CASE Funeral services for the late Courtney A. Case - 23 were held Nov. 5 at McWhite’s Funeral Home Chapel. Interment: Lauderdale Memorial Park.

DANIELS Funeral services for the late Patricia Daniels - 51 were held Nov. 5 at McWhite’s Funeral Home Chapel with Angela LeSane Mathis officiating.

MOSS Funeral services for the late Fredericka D. Moss - 46 were held Nov. 5 at National Church Of God with Elder Calvin B. Lamar officiating.

SEWEL Funeral services for the late Alfred Earl Sewel - 50 were held Nov. 5 at McWhite’s Funeral Home Chapel with Rev. Norman V. Jenkins officiating.

SMART Funeral services for the late Maxine Smart 74 were held Nov. 5 at McWhite’s Funeral Home Chapel.

Roy Mizell & Kurtz Funeral Home

TURNER Funeral services for the late Annie Ruth Turner – 77 were held Nov. 5 at Greater Providence Missionary with Dr. W.M. Ramsey officiating. Interment: Sunset Memorial Gardens.

STEWART Funeral services for the late Patricia Davis Stewart - 71 were held Nov. 5 at New Mount Olive Baptist Church with Dr. Marcus D. Davidson officiating.

Interment: Sunset Memorial Gardens.

WILLIAMS Funeral services for the late Lady Iris Elaine Littlejohn Wil-

A Family That Prays, Together Stays Together

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!”

Q&A: What Does Reverend Deal Say This Week?

“Alpha and the Omega: The first and the Last” Question: What does it mean’ I am the Alpha and the Omega? Also, what is the original language the Bible was written?

Answer: In the Book of Revelation 1:8; Jesus said that He is the “Alpha and the Omega, the beginning and the ending, saith the Lord, which is, and which was, and which is to come, the Almighty”. Can I get a ‘hallelujah? In other words, the Alpha and the Omega is the ‘First and the Last’.

The world started with God (the beginning) and it will end with God. The word ‘Alpha – Rev. David Deal á, Omega - &!’ are the first and last letters of the Greek alphabet.

Under the Doctrine of the Scriptures (Bibliology) teaches that the Bible was originally written in three languages: Hebrew, Aramaic, and Greek. As a matter of fact these three languages are still spoken throughout the world today. If you study the scriptures, allowing the Holy Ghost to lead, you can see all three original languages used. (1) Hebrew. All most all of the 39 books of the Old Testament were written in Hebrew.

Block like letters were written in capital letters without added vowels, such as YHWH – which is YAHWEH. (2) Aramaic.

When Jesus was dying on the cross He spoke Aramaic: Matthew 27:46;” Eli, Eli, lama sabachthani? My God, my God, why hast thou forsaken me?” (3) Greek. Although Jesus spoke in Aramaic the New Testament was written in Greek. Koine Greek was the main language at that time. One writer said that” the hand of God can be seen because Greek was the universal language (Roman Empire) and this made possible the spread of the Gospel throughout the world”.

Reverend Deal is the senior pastor of Every Christian Church of Fort Lauderdale, Fla. Rev Deal can be reached in care of the Westside Gazette, 545 NW 7th Terrace, Ft Laud. Fl. 33311 or emailed at David.Deal55@gmail.com

Happy Elder Willie Mae Gipson Appreciation Day! tor of the HOGC Fort Lauderdale #2 for over 30 years.

I’m so proud of my mom and her many contributions. I’m also grateful to the Board of County Commissioners for standing with me to honor this GREAT Woman of God. May her soul continue to Rest In Peace! November 11, 2014 Forever in my heart, Sandra Gipson Jones November 11th not only recognizes veterans that served our country. It also recognizes Elder Willie Mae Gipson, a soldier in the army of the Lord.

My mother worked tirelessly in the House of God Church (HOGC) and community. She was an ordained Elder, Missionary, Evangelist, and Pas-

PAGE 8 • NOVEMBER 10 - NOVEMBER 16, 2016

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The newest Dutch Pot Restaurant, located at 7301 Pines Blvd. Pembroke Pines, Fla. across from Broward College South, had its grand opening on Saturday, Nov. 5, 2016 and offered a stew chicken, rice and peas, vegetables meal with a drink for only $2. As you can imagine the line was long and out the door.

As I entered the restaurant on Saturday, I was welcomed by some nice Jamaican reggae music played by WAVS, 1170 AM radio station with the Love Doctor and GIRL (God’s Intelligent Righteous Leaders) Power Radio Show, including producer Jeremiah Campbell , Stacy Rose, Tanya A. and the Love Doctor, (Dr. Dennis D. Grant).

The ambience of the place was nice with pictures on the wall, a rock water fall by the door and on the other wall several pictures with the caption “A piece of Paradise enjoyed at Dutch Pot below the pictures. The other wall included a map of Jamaica with a caption of Manchester, Jamaica where Dutch Pot was birthed with a brief history written on it. I interviewed with Candy Henry who is the HR manager of the Dutch Pot and PR person.

She stated that she has been with the company only one year; however, she stated that the Dutch Pot was opened by two sisters, Cherry Marshall and Meloney Gregory, 17 years ago in Plantation. They now have a chain of six restaurants in Florida.

Henry was asked what does she believe is the success of the Dutch Pot and she stated “Two praying sisters.” She stated that they are women of great faith, they give back to their community by building homes and sending students to school. She also stated that their food is “fresh” they cut up every-thing in the kitchen and don’t use frozen items or from a can. I also got a chance to speak with Marshall, one of the owners,

who stated that the “Dutch Pot cooks fresh food every day. We are a restaurant that people can trust, we are faith based, and committed to serving the community.”

The menu offers a wide variety of Jamaican dishes such as Ackee and Salt fish, cornmeal porridge, soup, brown stew chicken, jerk chicken, curry goat, and cow foot just to name a few. I had the brown stew chicken and it was mouthwatering. I also had homemade carrot juice which was delicious.

All the products were fresh and the dishes had the warmth of homemade food. It appears that the chefs do take great care in selecting the best quality ingredients. As far as the price, it’s reasonable from $4.95 lunch meal for a week day lunch special t. I had a pleasant dining experience with food that tasted authentically Jamaican. For this reason I highly recommend going to the Dutch Pot, “Out of many, one pot.” For your next dining experience, you wouldn’t regret it.

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Westside Gazette

NOVEMBER 10 - NOVEMBER 16, 2016 • PAGE 9

President Obama: 'It’s in your hands'

By William Richardson Jr. With the presidential election coming up, one of the last things that President Obama wants to remind voters while early voting and before Election Day is that the choice is in their hands.

While campaigning for former Secretary of State Hillary Clinton, Pres. Obama spoke to voters at Florida International University on Thursday about how vital this election, a reminder he’s had to make on every stop of his endorsement tour for Clinton.

“There’s a reason I have gray hair, I’ve been busy,” Pres. Obama said. “We have to work like our future depends on it because the future actually does depend on it.”

And in a time where the future is looking blurry, Pres.

Obama is on the offensive front and is hoping that Republican nominee Donald Trump’s actions and mannerisms are enough for people to not vote for him.

Obama said “ Once you get past all the noise, all the distractions, all the okie-doke, the choice could not be clearer…

Donald Trump is not qualified to be president.” And when laughs rose from the crowd, the President wasn’t one of those laughing.

“You laugh. I’m not joking.

He is temperamentally unfit to be commander in chief,” Obama said.

“He said he’s gonna be his own foreign policy advisor. He’s says he’s got a good brain. I won’t comment on his brain,” Obama said. “But I will say this. Anyone who suggests we should torture, wants to ban entire religions, or insults POW’s (prisoners of war) or attacks a Gold Star medalist or talks down on our troops, that’s not who you want as president.”

He even referred to Trump taking offense over ‘Saturday Night Live’ and their portrayal of him during the election season.

Obama said “Anybody that is upset about a ‘Saturday Night Live’ skit is not somebody you want in charge of the White House. No, seriously. This guy tweets during ‘Saturday Night Live’ and says ‘I didn’t like how Alec Baldwin’s imitating me?

Really? I mean, that’s the thing that bothers you, and you

wanna be president? Come on, man.”

“Come on, man” has become the President’s new catchphrase and often uses it to describe the absurd, the unexplainable, the irrational...and often seems to be aimed at Donald Trump and his supporters.

Coincidence? Not for President Obama.

This election has become more spectacle than politics, more smoke and mirrors than issues and facts, more reality TV than should even be allowed. Obama said, “This isn’t ‘Survivor’ or ‘The Bachelorette’, this matters.”

And what really matters to President Obama as he approaches the final few months of his tenure at 1600 Pennsylvania Avenue is that people remove their cynicism and uncertainty about politics.

He took time towards the end of his speech to address the young people in the audience and make a plea to them to vote and to make the right choice.

“I know a lot of you are cynical about politics, there’s a lot that gives you reason to.

You have a chance to reject divisive politics and mean-

#WoC4Hillary show their support for Clinton in Washington, D.C. By Brittany Bullard (Women of Color for Hillary) The election of the nation’s first woman president is no small feat, particularly in an election year fraught with reality TV antics and unexpected twists and turns. Despite the presence of some unfamiliar characters in this year’s politics scene, a tried as tested voting bloc – women of color – are once again making themselves known in a big way in the days leading up to November 8.

Since the primaries, Women of Color for Hillary, a digitally savvy, grassroots organization run by former diplomat Reta Jo Lewis, has engaged in a bottoms up campaign across the country helping to give voice to the issues that matter most to women of color and their candidate of choice this election season.

Though the campaign has focused significant efforts on creating an impact in battleground states, the movement also found a home in the District.

At a recent rally in Washington, D.C., WoC4Hillary as supporters affectionately call it, assembled dozens of women excited to show their support for Secretary Hillary Rodham Clinton as the country’s 45th Commander in Chief.

“As a woman and a woman of color, and a mother of a daughter, it has been a tremendous opportunity for me to help elect our first woman President,” said Shawna Whatley, a Senior Public Policy Advisor with Holland and Knight. “I have watched her for a number of years be a strong and unflinching advocate for children, woman and people of color. She is smart, she listens to new ideas, engages folks to take part in the national conversation of developing sound public policy and she follows through on her commitments.”

In the District, as around the country, women of color are coordinating a campaign to tackle the massive assault against intellect being orchestrated by Donald Trump and his surrogates. By leveraging the strength of local ties and national connectivity, WoC4Hillary has organized a powerful tool against Trump’s candidacy. By highlighting Secretary Clinton’s strengths on healthcare, education, jobs, and her innovative strategies to support small businesses, WoC4Hillary positions well Clinton’s policy message with a personal touch.

“I’ve been very impressed with the organization that Reta

has put together and have attended a couple of #WoC4Hillary events,” said Chantale Wong, who’s worked on both Clinton presidential campaigns. “They are always well organized and the right people are there. It’s critical to have people of color, and particularly women of color, being more involved in political matters. #WoC4Hillary provides that venue.” Wong, who’s also campaigning for Katie McGinty as Pennsylvania’s newest U.S. Senator, thinks that both women have the right focus and electing them “is critical for all the issues that affect women – pay equity, wo-men’s right to choose, breaking the glass ceiling. Besides,” she said, Secretary Clinton “is a passionate advocate for children, families and those that are less fortunate.”

Asked about the Democratic candidate for president, Watley summed up well what seems to be a mutual sentiment held among WoC4Hillary supporters, “being with Hillary this past year has allowed me to work with other dynamic women and hear their stories, and we all agree that there is no better person in America to serve as our next President of our great country.”

Days before the election, Clinton talks about criminal justice, jobs and education with the Black press business or the importance of (Cont'd from FP) She maintained that getting equal pay for women as a “particularly big issue for African American women,” adding that black female small business owners are “the fastest growing segment of the small business world in our country.” “[But] they’re running into credit… [and] regulatory problems. We’ve got to look at those, not just from a 30,000foot view, but right down on the ground. What is it that stands in the way of men or women getting their businesses going?”

Improving higher education not only through the proposal she and Sen. Bernie Sanders have developed to make public universities “tuition-free” for students from families making $125,000 or less, but also creating a “dedicated $25 billion fund” to help private historically Black colleges and universities like St. Augustine’s and Shaw universities to continue to grow.

After reading that one in five North Carolina homes have no access to the Internet, noting that they are disproportionately African American or Latino, Clinton said emphatically, “I want to fix that,” continuing that those families are left out of so many economic and educational opportunities as a result.

“Taking on systemic racism,” something she has “talked very openly and specifically about,” is something Clinton added to

her pronounced agenda for African Americans. She points towards reforming the criminal justice system “from end to end” to help stem the tide of questionable fatal police shootings of Black people, improving police training, and building greater respect between law enforcement and the African American community.

“I particularly want to provide more diversion from the criminal justice system and more second chance programs for people who have paid their debt to society so that we begin to reverse what has been an over incarceration that has really disrupted communities.”

“But I also have to do more to heal the divides that we face in our country, and I’m taking all of this on because I want to build on the progress that Pres.

Obama has made. I don’t want to see it reversed or ripped away.” And yet, a “President” Hillary Clinton’s approach would be from “a different perspective that will hopefully get even more people listening,” she says.

Clinton certainly disagrees with Donald Trump’s assessment that African-Americans “live in hell,” instantly exclaiming, “Oh that’s so wrong,” and then adding “One of many insulting, divisive comments that Trump made was his characterization of African-American communities. It just shows he’s never been in any, he doesn’t know any people, he has no idea of the dynamism of small

historically Black colleges and universities, or the role that Black churches play, or Black professionals, and every walk of life.”

“He has characterized in such a negative way what I see as a part of America that has a lot going for it, but [also] has some challenges that we must honestly address. “ Clinton expressed support for South Carolina Congressman James Clyburn’s “10-2030” plan – ten percent of federal funds should go to the twenty percent of communities that have been living with generational poverty and lack of development for thirty years. Clinton says she’s developed a plan that not only implements 10-20-30 into the federal budget, but also the empowerment and enterprise zones that helped build Black businesses under President Bill Clinton’s “New Markets” tax credits to be able to further invest, and hire people within their communities.

Mrs. Clinton said she’d like to see “a much bigger effort” when it comes to upgrading skills training so that more people can actually qualify for the 1.2 million available jobs in the marketplace. She says she wants to accomplish this challenge literally on a “neighborhood by neighborhood” basis, working with local officials, businesses and faith leaders who know the most about their own communities, and bring different perspectives to the table.

(Read full story on www.thewestsidegazette.com)

spirited politics,” Obama said. “You have a chance to elect a leader who has spent her entire life trying to move this country forward, the first female President, who can be an example for our sons and our daughters. You have the chance to shape history, and I want young people to understand, those moments don’t come that often.”

And President Obama is hoping that with the help of young people, Florida, and voters around the country, history can be made again and Hillary Clinton will be able to continue the legacy being left behind.

A Virginia ex-felon joins others to vote for first time

By Jazmin Goodwin, Howard University News Service ALEXANDRIA, Va. – Every Election Day for nearly 30 years, people have told Terry Garrett, that she couldn’t vote.

Garrett was convicted of a felony for shoplifting at 18 and was stripped of her right to decide which people governed her community, her state, her nation.

On the cold crisp morning of Nov. 8, 2016, Garrett, the mother of four, made her own personal history. She walked from her house three minutes to the Charles Houston Recreation Center down the street with two of her daughters, Iterria Garrett and Candace Garrett, and voted the first time in her life.

She said she hoped to make American history by helping elect the first woman president.

“I am so happy that I could vote along with my two daughters,” she said. “They always vote, and now I can vote with them and get my ‘I Voted’ sticker.”

Garett is one of 60,000 Virginians who hav served their time for felony convictions who will be able to vote today following efforts by democratic Gov. Terry McAuliffe. The Virginia Legislature and the State Supreme Court struck down McAuliffe’s earlier effort to restore voting rights to 200,000 former Virginia residents convicted of felony crimes.

Garrett said she wishes the nation would get behind the efforts to allow exfelons the right to vote.

“Just let us vote,” she said.

‘We are people, we make mistakes, and we acknowledge that.”

According to Garrett, the road to the revocation of her voting rights began early with years of incarceration and brushes with the law. She said she started drinking at age 7.

2

Ex-Felon Terry Garrett, center, poses with her daughters, Iterria Garrett, 32, left, and Candace Garrett, 31.

She began rebelling, smoking weed and running away to escape problems at home at age 12. She had her first child at 16 and by age 20 had developed an addiction to crack cocaine.

Her road to redemption and gaining her restoration to vote after a long battle of drug addiction and crime was not an easy one, she said.

“The last time I was arrested, I knew I had to do something different or I was going to die in addiction,” she said.

Following her last incarceration, she said, she applied to Friends of Guest House, a women’s reentry program in Alexandria that led her to the support she needed to get her rights back.

With seven felony convictions, the roadblocks to Garrett’s right restoration were significant, due in part to fines and she was still under probation for her offenses.

“In the beginning, I didn’t know committing these crimes and getting these felonies were going to affect me in this way,” Garrett said. “It was never explained to me by anyone until I was 38 years old that this is what felonies can do to your life.”

According to the Brennan Center for Justice at New York University School of Law, more than six million American citizens are unable to vote because of a past criminal conviction.

It took Garrett five years just to qualify to apply, and then her request was rejected twice.

“I believe everyone should have the right to vote. You have a voice. The only way your voice can be heard is through those numbers in that booth when you vote,” said Garrett.

Rights restoration practices vary widely.

Public opinion surveys report that eight in 10 Americans support voting rights for citizens who have completed their sentence and nearly two-thirds support voting rights for those on probation or parole, according to The Sentencing Project.

Garrett said she hopes others like her will be able to someday exercise a right that was taken away from them.

“Even though we’ve made mistakes, we have a voice,” she said. “We’ve been told for so long that we don’t count and a lot of us still feel that way. Let your voice be heard and get your rights back.”

Long voting lines in Pivotal Pennsylvania

Long voting lines in Pivotal Pennsylvania.

By Courtney Davis Howard University News Service PHILADELPHIA – The lines to vote in this battleground state are so long that Henry Nicholas, president of the National Union of Hospital and Health Care Employees, was late to lead his own town hall voter rally.

It took him an hour to vote, he said.

In Philadelphia, long lines formed outside many polling places, this morning. A local news station reported 100 people were waiting in line

before the local voting precinct in the Philadelphia suburb Montgomery County opened.

Everett Staten, a registered Democrat, said he was shocked by the unusual length of lines at his polling place in the West Oak Lane section of Philadelphia. Staten arrived early, he said, just 10 minutes after the polls opened. It usually takes just 10 minutes to cast his ballot, he said. Today, it took three times that long.

“I exited the voting booth at 7:42 am, as the 29th voter of the day in my division,” he said.

“Two other divisions use the same location to vote, and all

three respective lines were longer than usual.”

Philadelphia Mayor Jim Kenney, members of the American Federation of State, County and Municipal Employees joined Nicholas and his union members for their rally to get out the vote.

Kenney and Nicholas urged the crowd that gathered at the union hall in downtown to not be deterred by long lines and long wait times and to help others who are trying to vote today.

“We’re fired up and ready to vote,” the crowd chanted.

Nicholas said Philadelphia’s Democratic voters are playing “catch-up” in what he expects to be the largest voting turnout in history. He said his group must go out and counter white male sexism.

“In the primary election, 113,000 white men changed their voter registration to give Trump the largest vote in the history of Pennsylvania,” he said. “Why? Because they didn’t want a woman to be the boss.” ” People are trying to get to polls before they go to work today.”

(Read full story on www.thewestsidegazette.com)

PAGE 10 • NOVEMBER 10 - NOVEMBER 16, 2016

www.thewestsidegazette.com

Westside Gazette

Miami Dolphins ar e rrolling olling s of thr ee str aight g ames! are olling,, winner winners three straight games!

Jay Ajayi continues to be an absolute stud in the Miami Dolphins backfield. Here is the latest touchdown from the Miami tailback against the New York Jets. (Internet Photo)

By D’Joumbarey A. Moreau They say that rivalry games bring out the best in you.

LEGAL NOTICES NOTICE TO CONTRACTORS Florida Department of Transportation Project Bids will be received by the Tallahassee Office until 10:30 A.M. on Wednesday, December 7, 2016, for Proposal ID T6387. The improvement consists of intersection improvement along SR 90 in Miami-Dade County.

This is a Business Development Initiative (BDI) project, and Certification of Qualification is not required. Budget Estimate $427,434.00. 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.

Nov. 10, 2016

PUBLICATION OF BID SOLICITATIONS

HELP WANTED

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.

November 3, 10, 17, 24, 2016

When the Miami Dolphins took on the New York Jets on Sunday, the game was a shootout. The only problem was each team kept shooting themselves in the foot.

In this error-filled game of, “Here, no you win the game” the home team Dolphins came victorious. With the 27-23 win on Sunday, the Dolphins have now won three consecutive games for the first time since October 19, 2014 - November 2, 2014.

However, in spite of the errors in the game, this was one of the few games where every single facet of the team was clicking on all cylinders. The offense was led by Ryan Tannehill, who played well.

In the game Tannehill looked accurate, he looked confident and he wasn’t forcing anything unnecessary. Tannehill looked poised and he looked like

Josh King President Of Broadcast 65 Is looking for an Executive Producer for the making of a original Gospel Comedy Movie that will be film in West Palm Beach Florida. Broadcast 65 is a new Cable & Movie Production Company.

Please call if interested (412) 420-4360 Nov. 3, 10, 17, 24, 2016

INVITATION TO BID Notice is hereby given that bids will be received on Friday, November 11, 2016 at 2:00pm by Skanska USA Building Inc. for the City of Ft. Lauderdale Las Olas Corridor Improvements and Parking Garage.

Bid requirements and bid forms, specifications, drawings and other construction documents will be available on www.isqft.com. Bid packages include demolition, site concrete, landscape, structural concrete, landscaping, irrigation, sitework and utilities, millwork, doors, windows, finishes, specialties, fire protection, plumbing, HVAC, and electrical.

Skanska is committed to supporting the economic development of Broward County and Miami-Dade County small businesses through the SBE –C program. Broward and Miami-Dade County certified “small” business entities are encouraged to submit bid proposals. All subs interested in bidding this project will need to have gone through Skanska’s prequalification process. It can be initiated at https://apps.skanska.com/ prequalinquiry/.

All questions can be vincent.collins@skanska.com.

directed

to

Vincent

Collins

at

Skanska USA Building Inc. reserves the right to accept or reject any and all proposals in whole or part and to waive informalities and irregularities.

the five-year veteran that the Dolphins expected him to play like. In the first half alone Tannehill went 11-of-13, 98 yards and a touchdown finishing with a quarterback rating of 123.7.

Speaking of converting in the red zone, running back Jay Ajayi continued his torrent play. One of the biggest questions going into the game was would Ajayi become the first person in NFL history to rush for 200 yards in three consecutive games. Ayaji failed to create more history. Instead, he had his third straight game with 100 yards or more.

Also, on Sunday Ajayi became one of three NFL players to rush for a touchdown in four

consecutive games. During Miami’s first red zone conversion, Ajayi once again helped Miami put seven points on the board rushing into the corner of the end zone and taking three Jets defenders with him.

Defensively, Miami’s defensive line couldn’t have shined brighter.

On his way to a borderline Hall of Fame career, defensive end Cameron Wake had a monster game. Wake made it a nightmare for Ryan Fitzpatrick as he kept bringing pressure the entire game. Fitzpatrick was sacked three times, hit six times, and he fumbled twice.

Wake, on the other hand, was responsible for two sacks and

two forced fumbles.

This marked the 15th time Wake had two-or-more sacks in a game. In Dolphins history that only ranks No. 2 to Jason Taylor who has 25 total.

It’s also the 18th time Wake had multiple sacks in a game and the fourth time he’s has two forced fumbles.

“He’s (Wake) going to make sure that he shows up, and if he has an opportunity to win a game, he’s going to try to do everything he can to be a part of the success of our defense,” said Dolphins head coach Adam Gase.

When Wake started getting rolling, it helped his teammates also to shine too. Defensive end Jordan Phillips also came up

big as he got an interception and a run back.

Additionally, the special teams played special.

The Dolphins drafted rookies Kenyan Drake and Jakeem Grant exclusively for their versatility and speed. On Sunday the New York Jets got a huge taste of it.

Drake had a 96-yard kickoff return for a touchdown which was the tied for the sixthlongest in team history.

“Everyone was running down the sideline.

I think I was trying to beat him to the end zone.

I was so excited for him.

(Read full story on www.thewestsidegazette.com)

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NOVEMBER 10 - NOVEMBER 16, 2016 • PAGE 11

Westside Gazette

The Black Archives Historic Lyric Theater kicks off 40th anniversary with The Visions of Our 44th President Barack Obama Exhibition MIAMI, FL — With a year of events planned, The Black Archives History & Research Foundation of South Florida

Inc. kicks off its 40 th Anniversary with the Visions of Our 44th President Barak Obama exhibition. The exhibit

Million Dollar Quartet, a musical

displays realistic, life-sized busts designed, painted, and/or embellished by 44 contemporary African American artists from across the country. Visions will open to a private media reception on Tuesday, Nov. 29, 2016, a cocktail opening reception on Wednesday, Nov. 30, 2016, and to the general public on Thursday, Dec. 1, 2016. Visions of Our 44th President will be on display at the Black Archives Historic Lyric Theater Cultural Arts Complex, 819 NW Second Ave., Miami, Fla. “Showcasing Visions in Miami not only highlights the historic term of our nation’s first African American president” said Timothy A. Barber, Black Archives Executive Director.

“Through artistic expression, Visions celebrates the accomplishments we have been able to achieve together, as a community, over the past eight years. Our goal is that this exhibit will extend beyond race, social status, or party affiliation, to highlight the common threads among us and inspire a continued togetherness as this country moves into

its next chapter.”

Each artist started with the identical blank bust and were charged to fearlessly commemorate the historical significance of President Barack Obama. For the 44th contemporary African American artists, this exhibition fosters self-expression. For the visitors, the goal is to spark dialogue and generate conversation to foster

humanities. The exhibit is organized by the Charles H. Wright Museum of African American History in Detroit, MI and was curated by Peter Kaplan of Our World, LLC. For more information about this event, and/or sponsorship packages please visit, www.BAHLT.org. To purchase tickets for the private reception, please visit VisionsOpening.eventbrite.com.

General Admission $20; seniors $15/62+ Students with ID $15; free admission for Black Archives members, Active U.S. Military with ID and children age six and under.

Opening Reception Admission: Black Archives members/ $150 and non-member/$250.

Tickets available at Visions Opening.eventbrite.com Social Media: Hashtag #BAHLT #Visionsof44; Twitter @LyricTheaterMIA; I n s t a g r a m @LyricTheaterMIA and Facebook Facebook.com/ black.archives.3

Pembroke Pines Fire Department 2016 Fire Prevention Week Poster Contest winners

Eddie Clendening as Elvis Presley in the Actors’ Playhouse production of Million Dollar Quartet.

On Sunday, Nov. 6, 2016, I attended the Million Dollar Quartet, a musical playing at the Actor’s Playhouse at the Miracle Theatre in Coral Gables, Fla. live!! The musical was directed by Barbara S. Stein, Executive Director, and David Arisco, the Artistic Director. This play began on Oct. 21 and will run until Jan. 2017.

The play took place in one day in time (Dec. 4, 1956) at Sun Records Studio, Memphis, Tenn. Sun Records, a music recording studio ran by Sam Phillip. Jim Ballard depicted how Elvis Presley, played by Eddie Clendening, Johnny Cash, played by Sky Seals, Carl Perkins, played by Jeremy Sevelovitz, and Jerry Lee Lewis, played by Dominique Scott, got their start in Rock and Roll. This day depicted the four guys stopping by Sun Records unexpectedly and began a jam session. This show included Dyanne, played by Lindsey Corey, who came to the studio with Elvis as his girlfriend. She appeared to sing some of the songs with them and she had some pipes on her.

I really enjoyed the show and wanted to get up and dance 50’s styles several times during the musical. These guys were rocking!!!

They appeared to have great stage presence, knew how to have fun together, and could play! I had not been to a play in a while and this one did not disappoint. My favorite was Jerry Lee Lewis’ character, an obnoxious, talented, and goal- directed young man you couldn’t help but fall in love with. However, the cast members held their own. You had Car Perkins’s character standing on a double bass playing his guitar with the double bass player standing on the bass playing as well. Jerry Lee Lewis, playing the piano while leaning back and standing on it, threw the mike down and caught it with his feet. I was in awestruck. I had never seen anything so cool.

After the show, I asked the lady sitting next to me, Jill Presto, how she felt about the performance and she stated, “I was energetic and infectious, having seen best finale ever.” I could not have said it better. At the end, they played a couple of songs and had the audience get up and dance and sing along with them. I had an awesome time.

(Read full story on www.thewestsidegazette.com)

Over 1,400 students from Pembroke Pines Elementary schools created posters following the theme: “Don’t wait, check the Date! Replace Smoke Alarms Every 10 Years” for the Annual Pembroke Pines Fire Department Poster Contest held during Fire Prevention Week. This year’s winners were recognized at the Pembroke Pines City Commission, awarded trophies, ribbons and a goodie bag filled with Fire Safety prizes (stickers, coloring books and crayons) and had their posters on display in Pembroke Pines City Hall.

This year Chapel Trail Elementary had the highest number of students (627) entering the contest, and those students will also receive prizes in recognition of their participation.

The winning posters were chosen based on three criteria: how well the safety message was incorporated into the poster, creativity and neatness. “This year’s record participation in the fire safety poster contest pleases us greatly; the more children involved who understand the need to take responsibility for fire safety the more lives that will be saved.

This contest teaches lessons that will last a lifetime,” stated John Picarello, Fire Chief of the Pembroke Pines Fire Rescue.

Learn more about the Fire Department Poster Contest: https://www.youtube.com/ watch?v=WZwqr2tzBjQ. For additional information contact Sandra Lluis, Fire Marshal, Pembroke Pines Fire Rescue Department at 954 (499) 9560.

The Fort Lauderdale (FL) Chapter of The Links, Incorporated 2016-2017 Chapter Program accomplishments

The winners of the 2016 Annual Pembroke Pines Fire Prevention Elementary School Poster Contest. KINDERGARTEN - First place: Valentina Paz/Somerset Academy; second place: Aaron Sabatini Somerset Academy, and third place: Sidharth Mudusu, kindergarten - Somerset Academy. FIRST GRADERS - First place: Jolie Belizaire/Somerset Academy; second place: Ellie Lopez/Somerset Academy third place: Valentina Dominguez/Somerset Academy. SECOND GRADERS - First place: Christian Ali/Pines Charter - Central; second place: Brianna Puig/Pines Charter – East and third place: Janel Lubin/Pine Charter - East. THIRD GRADERS - First place: Vaishnavi Kuppala/Pines Charter - East; second place: Allison Plicka/Greentree Prep School and third place: Kennedy Rustmann/Somerset Academy. FOURTH GRADERS - First place: Josiah Mahoney/Pines Charter - Central; second place:Camila Vac/Pines Charter - East and third place: Ariana Cotto/Montessori Academy. FIFTH GRADERS - First place: Navya Pant/Lakeside Elementary; second place: Pembroke Lakes Elementary and third place: Carolina Espinosa.

MAKE YOUR DREAMS OF HOMEOWNERSHIP INTO REALITY! GET ON PATH TO BUY THE HOME YOU’VE ALWAYS DREAMED ABOUT FOR YOU AND YOUR FAMILY. Homeownership is a dream that FCB can help you make happen, and it’s easier than you think! & ͛Ɛ īŽƌĚĂďůĞ ,ŽŵĞ >ŽĂŶ WƌŽŐƌĂŵ can help you overcome: • Limited assets for a down payment • Low credit • Income and budget challenges KƵƌ ůŽĐĂů ƵŶĚĞƌǁƌŝƟŶŐ ƚĞĂŵ ŽīĞƌƐ ƉĞƌƐŽŶĂůŝnjĞĚ ƐĞƌǀŝĐĞ ƚŚĂƚ ŚĞůƉƐ LJŽƵ ŐĞƚ ĂƉƉƌŽǀĞĚ͕ ĨĂƐƚ ĚĞĐŝƐŝŽŶ ŵĂŬŝŶŐ͕ ĂŶĚ ůŽǁ ĮdžĞĚ ƌĂƚĞƐ ǁŝƚŚ ŇĞdžŝďůĞ ƚĞƌŵƐ ƐŽ LJŽƵ ĐĂŶ ĞĂƐŝůLJ ŵĂŶĂŐĞ LJŽƵƌ ĮƌƐƚ ŵŽƌƚŐĂŐĞ͘ tĞ ĂůƐŽ ŽīĞƌ Ă ƌĂŶŐĞ ŽĨ ƌĞƐŽƵƌĐĞƐ ƚŚĂƚ ĐĂŶ ŚĞůƉ LJŽƵ ŐĞƚ ŵŽƌƚŐĂŐĞͲƌĞĂĚLJ͗ • &ŝƌƐƚͲƟŵĞ ŚŽŵĞďƵLJĞƌ ǁŽƌŬƐŚŽƉƐ ƚŚĂƚ ƋƵĂůŝĨLJ LJŽƵ ĨŽƌ ŬĞLJ ƉƌŽŐƌĂŵƐ ůŝŬĞ ŽǁŶ WĂLJŵĞŶƚ ĂŶĚ ůŽƐŝŶŐ ŽƐƚ ƐƐŝƐƚĂŶĐĞ͕ ǁŚĞƌĞ ĂǀĂŝůĂďůĞ͘

By Link Adria HarrisonWiley The Fort Lauderdale (FL) Chapter of The Links, Incorporated community fundraising efforts support numerous community service programs in the Fort Lauderdale/Broward County area. All proceeds from fundraising events are utilized to maintain the Chapter’s programs and scholarships.

For the 2016 – 2017 program year, the Chapter has already awarded more than $18,000 to local Broward County students. These Chapter achievements include: 1) The implementation of the Links 2 Leadership umbrella program which was created to encompass and include the requirements of the five National Facets of The Links, Incorpo-

rated. These five facets are Services to Youth, National Trends and Services, The Arts, International Trends and Services, and Health and Human Services.

2) An introduction to STEM careers to young ladies (Grades 5-8). This was accomplished through several workshops featuring the United Nations’ Girls Up initiative for participants who prepared over 200+ survivals kits containing basic necessities such as toothbrushes, soap, wash clothes, underwear and sanitary items. These items were shipped to villages in Haiti. In addition, the workshop participants assisted in preparing 100+ school supply kits for Women in Distress of Broward County, Inc. Other workshops included topics on anti-bulling/cyber-bulling; a sponsored HBCU college tour

to Florida Memorial University in Miami where participants visited The School of Aviation in an effort to expose and recruit more females to major in Science, Technology, Engineering and Math (STEM) fields; and workshops focused on presenting young girls to good nutritional health and dietary strategies necessary for one’s optimal health.

The Fort Lauderdale (FL) Chapter’s leadership journey has provided an out-of-classroom learning experience and rigorous curriculum that strive to equip young girls from all areas of Fort Lauderdale (Broward County) with the confidence, independence, skills and global competiveness required for the success and survival of the next generation of future leaders.

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