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THURSDA THURSDAYY, FEBRUAR FEBRUARYY 2 - WEDNESDA WEDNESDAYY, FEBRUAR FEBRUARYY 8, 2017

Roosevelt McClary III motivates students during ESSA/NNPA Workshop

ESSAWORKSHOP Roosevelt McClary, the secretary of the Broward Teachers Union (l), speaks as NNPA President and CEO Benjamin F. Chavis, Jr. (c) and Westside Gazette publisher Bobby Henry look on during the ESSA/NNPA student workshop at the 2017 NNPA Mid-Winter Conference in Fort Lauderdale, Fla. (Freddie Allen/AMG/NNPA)

By Nicole Narae (NNPA Newswire Contributor) FORT LAUDERDALE — On Thursday, January 26, almost 200 students from Broward County-area high schools participated in an education workshop hosted by the National Newspaper Publishers Association (NNPA).

The special, student-focused program was coordinated in conjunction with the NNPA’s new national education campaign that is supported by a grant from the Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation. The grant supports work designed to raise public awareness about the Every Student Succeeds Act (ESSA); the law, signed by

President Obama in December 2015, reauthorizes the Elementary and Secondary Education Act, and also works to address achievement gaps in K-12 education.

“I would like to publicly thank the Broward County School system, the Broward Teachers Union and their president, Anna Fusco and her

cabinet for co-facilitating this opportunity for the students to have a most productive lunch experience with the NNPA,” stated Bobby R. Henry, Sr., host publisher.

The Broward Teachers Union (BTU), the fifth largest teachers union in the United States, cosponsored the event.

“The Broward Teachers Union gets it,” said Roosevelt McClary III, the secretary of the teachers union in Broward County, Fla. “They understand, because most of the members of the Broward Teachers Union are teachers, who are also parents.

So, it helped in making an unusual, but quick, decision to support the National Newspapers Publishers Association Mid-Winter Conference.”

At 29, McClary is not only the first African American to be elected as Secretary of the Broward Teachers Union, he’s also the youngest.

McClary opened up about his personal life to help motivate the students in attendance during the workshop. When a routine health screening returned with negative results, a physician recommended that his mother terminate the pregnancy, a decision that would have ended his life before he was even born. Fortunately, McClary said, his mother ignored the advice and he was born without any physical or mental limitations. He went on to college and graduated from Full Sail University.

(Cont'd on Page 9)

We can always overcome, but never forget My people were lost sheep. Their shepherds led them astray. They abandoned them in the mountains where they wandered aimless through the hills. They lost track of home, couldn’t remember where they came from. Everyone who met them took advantage of them.

Their enemies had no qualms: ‘Fair game,’ they said.

‘They walked out on God. They abandoned the True Pasture, the hope of their parents.’” —Jeremiah 50:6 The Message (MSG) by Eugene H. Peterson Bobby R. Henry, Sr. I am constantly reminded of how important it is for us to teach our history to our children each time I’m afforded the opportunity to speak at different schools. This is compounded during Black History Month. It doesn’t matter the grade level or the audience, the need to educate and reeducate our children and ourselves to the legacy of our tempered and emotional past is one of necessity for our survival.

I am pushed, battered and terrified each time I leave the presence of students whose faces appear to be those of individuals who have just smelled the putrid stench of a rotting corpse when they learn for the first time of the horrors of the Middle Passage.

(Cont'd on Page 12) **********

Dare we dream!

By Ginette Curry, Ph.D. Hold fast to dreams For if dreams die Life is a broken winged bird That cannot fly (Langston Hughes’ “Dreams”)

During the beginning of my teaching career at Cheikh Anta Diop University in Dakar, Senegal (West Africa), I published an article about W.E. DuBois’ acclaimed book The Souls of Black Folk and the African American dream in Bridges, Senegalese Journal of English Studies. My analysis of his book was based on his historical and literary explanation of Black people’s hopes at the beginning of the 20th century.

(Cont'd on Page 12)

Rev. William Barber tells Black Press: 'Bowing down is not an option'

By Freddie Allen (Managing Editor, NNPA Newswire) Reverend William Barber, the president of the North Carolina state chapter of the NAACP and leader of the Moral Mondays movement, delivered a rousing keynote address to open the 2017 Mid-

Winter Conference of the National Newspaper Publishers Association (NNPA).

The theme of the conference was “Strengthening Blackowned Newspapers through Training, Innovation and Technology.” The NNPA partnered with General Motors, Chevrolet, Ford Motor Com-

Lawyers’ committee goes on red alert as Trump rolls back civil rights

Mount Hermon AME Church Greek Unity Day 2017

By J.D. Scruggs On behalf of our dynamic Pastor, Rev. Henry E. Green, Jr., we cordially invite the entire community to our 23rd Annual Greek Unity Day Observance. Through this program we acknowledge and recognize Black Greek lettered organizations for their numerous contributions and accomplishments.

This year’s observance will begin at 10:15 a.m. on Sunday Feb. 19, 2017 at Mount Hermon A.M.E. Church, 401 N.W. Seventh Terr., Fort Lauderdale, Fla. The Mount Hermon Church Family and the Greek Unity Day Committee solicit your attendance, participation and support at Greek Unity Day 2017.

(Cont'd on Page 5)

Reverend William Barber II, president of the North Carolina state chapter of the NAACP, delivered an electrifying speech during the 2017 NNPA Mid-Winter Conference in Fort Lauderdale, Fla. (Freddie Allen/AMG/NNPA)

Bishop Teresa Snorton, Presiding Bishop of The Fifth Episcopal District of The Christian Methodist Episcopal Church.

Pleading Our Own Cause

pany, Reynolds American Inc. (RAI), and the Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation to host the conference; Volkswagen, Ascension, Coca-Cola, and the American Association for Cancer Research supported the event as sponsors.

During his speech titled, “Where Do We Go from Here: Chaos or Community?” Barber tackled voter suppression in the aftermath of Shelby v. Holder, white evangelicalism and the current political environment in the age of “alternative facts.”

Noting that President Woodrow Wilson played the white supremacist propaganda

WWW.

film “Birth of a Nation” in the Oval office in 1911, Barber said that Trump’s ascension and election is not an anomaly in American history.

“This is not the first time that white supremacy has occupied The White House. This is not the first time that America has elected a racist egomaniac,” said Barber, reminding the audience that President Wilson, a former college president, played “Birth” to signal that Reconstruction was over. “Education doesn’t necessarily get racism out of you.”

(Cont'd on Page 9)

Civil rights groups are calling for more hearings for President Trump’s pick for Attorney General Senator Jeff Sessions (R-Ala.) in the wake of the Trump Administration’s travel ban on seven majority Muslim countries.

(Gage Skidmore/Wikimedia Commons)

By Lauren Victoria Burke (NNPA Newswire Contributor) President Donald Trump began his first term by attempting to roll back the civil rights gains that occurred under his predecessor, President Barack Obama.

Hours after Trump was sworn in as president, the Civil Rights Division of the U.S. Department of Justice undertook actions that signaled a major shift in civil rights en-

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forcement; particularly work on voting rights and policing reform.

“The actions taken so quickly are unprecedented,” said Joe Rich, the co-director of the Fair Housing and Community Development Project at the Lawyers’ Committee for Civil Rights Under Law. Rich is also a former attorney working in the Civil Rights Division at the U.S. Department of Justice.

(Cont'd on Page 9) MEMBER: National Newspaper Publishers Association ( NNPA), and Southeastern African-American Publishers Association (SAAPA) Florida Association of Black Owned Media (FABOM)

PAGE 2 • FEBRUARY 2 - FEBRUARY 8, 2017

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Dania Beach honors first Interfaith leaders join in rousing celebration of Black Mayor President Barack H. Obama’s Legacy in Washington, D.C. Submitted by Joe David

DANIA BEACH, FL—The Dania Beach Community Redevelopment Agency (CRA) in partnership with the City of Dania Beach Parks and Recreation department will be hosting a rededication ceremony and community event at Chester Byrd Park on February 4th, 2017 from 11 a.m. – 3 p.m.

This family-friendly event is being held to celebrate the park’s recent fitness upgrades in support of the Dania Beach Healthy Community Zone and to honor former Mayor Chester Byrd, who served as the first black Mayor of Dania Beach as part of the City’s celebration of Black History Month.

As part of the festivities, there will be an unveiling of permanent art installations at the park including a portrait of Mayor Byrd as well as interactive art activities and paintings that the community can take part in. The art installations are funded by the Broward Regional Health Planning Council’s (BRHPC) TOUCH initiative which has been a driving force in the Dania Beach Healthy Community Zone initiative. Other activities include a free food giveaway sponsored by Feeding South Florida, lawn games, fitness demos, healthy living exhibitors, music and food.

While reminiscing on the namesake for Chester Byrd Park, Commissioner Bobbi Grace said, “I can reflect on this great man, our Mayor of Dania Beach, Mr. Chester Byrd. Under his leadership I had the privilege of beginning my community service as a member of the Dania Activity Committee, the Dania Economic Development Corporation and working side by side on many community projects in the City of Dania Beach. He was my mentor, job well done!” Chester Byrd was first elected to the City Commission in 1981 and appointed Mayor in 1983. He was re-elected to the City Commission in 1985 and reappointed as Mayor in 1987 of which he served until his death in April 1988. He is remembered as an educator, champion of affordable housing, community organizer and leader. He was not only the first black mayor in Dania Beach but also in all of Broward County.

Chester Byrd Park is located at 1021 SW 12th Avenue, Dania Beach, FL. For more information about the Dania Beach CRA visit daniabeachcra.org, information about the Dania Beach Healthy Community Zone and BHRPC’s TOUCH Partnership can be found at touchbroward.org/hcz.

WASHINGTON, DC — Interfaith religious leaders from across the country assembled recently at the National Press Club in Washington, DC to celebrate the historic achievements of America’s first black President, Barack Hussein Obama.

Thomas Burr, the outgoing National Press Club president, welcomed the guests and expressed “how proud he was to welcome to the club such a distinguished gathering of interfaith leaders to honor the President’s legacy.”

Eight interfaith leaders who contributed to the book, Mr. President, compiled by Reverend Darryl D. Sims and Dr. Barbara Williams-Skinner in honor of the Obama years, presented their views of the President’s legacy before a packed audience. The four-hour afternoon conference, sponsored by Sims Media Group, was an enthusiastic mix of up lifting ideas viewed from different religious perspectives on what needs to be done to preserve the President’s legacy.

Each perspective was viewed by what Dr. Wendell Anthony, Pastor of Fellowship Chapel, Detroit, wrote in Mr. President.

“The President’s greatest legacy lies rooted in the perception of how black and brown youth can now see themselves.”

Reverend Darryl D. Sims, a nationally known spiritual coach who along with Dr. Barbara Williams-Skinner, President of Skinner Leadership Institute, compiled the collection of perspectives in Mr. President, said: “There is no doubt that becoming the first Black President of the United States of America has been Barack Obama’s greatest legacy. His remarkable years in office have successfully delivered a significant blow to the negative stereotypes of the African American male.”

Reverend Sims believes for America to grow as a united country it must grapple with the protracted and insidious race issue, which the President

L to r: Reverend Darryl D. Sims presents a signed copy of Mr. President to Ms. Melissa Rogers, Special Assistant to President Obama and Executive Director of the White House Office of Faith-Based and Neighborhood Partnerships with co-collaborator, Dr. Barbara Williams-Skinner, president of Skinner Leadership Institute.

(Photo credit: Patricia McDougall, photographer) began to address in his diplomatic fashion. In addition, it must work together with the President-Elect to protect the gains that President Obama made during his two terms in office.

“Electing a black man to the most powerful position in the world has been an important decision for Americans, and an important achievement for President Obama,” Reverend Sims continued, “We must never allow anything to tarnish it.”

Among the speakers were:

Bishop Donald Hilliard, Sr. Pastor, Cathedral International in New Jersey, Rabbi Julie Shonfield, Executive Vice President of the Rabbinical Assembly; Rev. Gabby Cudjoe Wilkes, Yale Student, Master’s of Divinity program; Dr. Wayne “Coach” Gordon, Pastor of Lawndale Community Church in Chicago; Dr. Angelique Walker-Smith, Senior Associate for Pan African and Orthodox Church Relations; Rev. Dr. George Holmes, who served three White House Presidents; and

Rev. Dr. Amos C. Brown, Senior Pastor of the Third Baptist Church, San Francisco.

Ms. Melissa Rogers, Special Assistant to President Obama and Executive Director of the White House Office of FaithBased and Neighborhood Partnerships, accepted a signed copy of Mr. President for President Obama. Dr. Renee Allen served as Mistress of Ceremonies; Pastor and presidential Advisor Suzan Denise Johnson Cook, offered a prayer of thanksgiving.

A new merging community leader

By Nicole Richards I met Mikelange Olbel two days after Christmas in his office on Sistrunk Boulevard.

As a Broward native, it is always fascinating to see Sistrunk’s transformation. New light posts. Construction. Jimmy John’s. Evidence of the creeping reality of downtown Fort Lauderdale’s extension. However, the exceptionality of Sistrunk’s community revitalization remains embedded in its committed residents, community leaders, and businesses that are devoted to keeping the interests and concerns of the Black community injected into the neighborhood’s renewal. I would be pleased to discover Mr. Olbel a member of this admirable group.

Despite the relaxed mood of the holiday season, I found Mr. Olbel diligently working during a short transition between meetings. Founder & CEO of Team Saving Our Youth, a family and youth empowerment organization, he has proven to be a tireless community educator highly devoted to his work.

This was evident by an office decorated with personal triumphs and awards from some of South Florida’s most prestigious organizations.

Heartfelt gifts and family pictures were set on enthusiastic display and his inbox and outbox were in an organized overflow. He motions to a bag of toys stored neatly in the corner.

“Leftovers from the Christmas toy drive.” he tells me.

Immediately I was struck by his joy. It was a joy nestled in deep satisfaction and happiness at the discovery of a life’s purpose. Throughout our conversation it became increasingly obvious Olbel was fully operating in this purpose. His passion for youth and family empowerment was infectious and palpable. “My life has adequately prepared me for this work,” he expressed to me. “I love what I do because it has made a difference in hundreds of lives.”

Hailing from Pompano Beach, Olbel personally understands the struggles of living in poverty. Despite his parents moving to South Florida from Haiti in search of better opportunities, they, like many Haitian immigrants, were met with racial and xenophobic barriers that seem to characterize the Haitian experience here. This resulted in a lifelong economic struggle equipped with a cir-

“The system isn’t always fair,” he tells me, “ In America, Black and Brown boys are considered criminals from the womb", stated Olbel. culating carousel of low-paying jobs, multiple stints of homelessness, and the unfortunate exposure of the Olbel children to the lure of the streets. Despite economic instability, Olbel’s parents were a God-fearing and loving couple, assisting family members when they could, sharing their home and meals with those in need. Above else, his parents emphasized personal responsibility and the necessity of an education.

Unfortunately, by the age of 13, Olbel had fallen prey to severe disinterest in school, enticed by the seemingly fun days of truancy and allowing his grades to plummet. Then came a life-changing statement from his father.

“He told me, if I don’t stop playing around and change my ways that I would end up in prison,” Olbel recounts, “At first, I was shocked my father would say that to me. It shook me. But those words changed my life and redirected the path I was on.”

Those words would be proven prophetic. Throughout his teenage years Olbel would witness all four of his older brothers fall into the clutches of the prison system at early ages, spending multiple years behind bars. Although he recognizes an element of personal responsibility in each of their stories, he is also quick to point out the roles economic hardship and systematic racism played in their incarceration.

“The system isn’t always fair,” he tells me, “ In America, Black and Brown boys are considered criminals from the womb. They aren’t even given the chance to reach their full potential and with the lack of adequate role models and op-

portunities, they sometimes make poor choices and get caught up.”

Olbel was determined not to relive the stories of drugs and violence that seem to characterize “that side” of Pompano Beach. He became the first in his family to graduate college, leaving with a dual degree in Criminal Justice and Sociology with a minor in Psychology from the University of Dubuque in Dubuque, Iowa. He would later go on to receive a Masters of Science degree in Public Policy & Business Management from Iowa State University. This was strategic and purposeful. At an age when most college graduates are feeling out life’s possibilities, Olbel was already certain of his desire to help change policies deterimental to young lives.

Upon his return to South Florida, he worked as a youth educator, but, being unable to shake the desire to affect lives on a broader scale, boldly walked away from this stable position to explore the uncertainty of entrepreneurship.

This was the birth of Team Saving Our Youth.

Launched in 2012, Team SOY has made excellent strides towards its mission to empower youth and families in Broward county. Inspired by the stories of his brothers and other peers who found themselves in the justice system at a young age, Olbel envisioned an organization that would foster positive decision-making, leadership skills, self-respect, and confidence in youth ages 5-22, steering them away from juvenile delinquency.

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Community Digest

FEBRUARY 2 - FEBRUARY 8, 2017 • PAGE 3

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

Exhibit

Ali Cultural Arts Celebrates The Life and Legacy of Karl K. Weaver, Sr., Saturday, Feb. 4 thru Friday, March 4, 2017, Reception on Saturday, Feb. 4, 2017 from 12 to 2 p.m., at Ali Cultural Arts, 353 Hammondville Rd., Pompano Beach, Fla. This is a free event. For more info contact Kay Renz at (561) 654-8151.

Events

Workshop

Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Incorporated, Zeta Rho Omega chapter is hosting its annual and exciting “So You Want to go to College” free 2017 College Workshop, on Saturday, Feb. 4, 2017 at the Lauderdale Lakes Educational and Cultural Center, 3580 W. Okld. Pk Blvd., Lauderdale Lakes, Fla. Registration begins at 9:30 a.m. and the workshop is from 10 a.m. - 12 p.m. Information will be provided on college admission requirements, application process, scholarships, financial aid, college life and the College Tour, April 10 –13 (open to high school students grades 9-12). For more infomation contact RG Foderingham at (954) 714-0677 or email at collegetour@zetarhoomega.org.

Urban League of Broward County History Celebrations · The “Harlem Renaissance” on view, Wednesday, Feb. 1, 2017 from 7 to 10 p.m., at the Urban League of Broward County, 560 N.W. 27 Ave., Fort Lauderdale, Gla. Features the work of three celebrated local artists: Yvette Michele, George Moss and Philip Curtis. · Harlem Black Party hosted

by Jill Tracey of HOT 105, conclude the four-day celebration with the Black History Family Day: Harlem Block Party, Saturday, Feb. 4, 2017 from 12 to 4 p.m., at Samuel L. Delevoe Park, 2520 N.W. Sixth St., Fort Lauderdale, Fla.

Jack & Jill Health Fair on Saturday, February 11, 2017 from 8 a.m. to 2 p.m., at Jack & Jill Children’s Center, 1315 W. Broward Blvd., Fort Lauderdale, Fla. There will be absolutely FREE services and referrals to local health providers.

Presentation

Celebration

Novaw powered by myEcon, hosts a Personal and Financial Empowerment on Tuesday, Feb. 7, 2017 at 7:30 p.m., at the Fort Lauderdale Marriott North 6650 N. Andrews Ave., Fort Lauderdale, Fla. To reserve a seat space limited call (954) 8040319.

Health Fair

Annual Black History Month Celebration, "It Takes A Village", Sunday, Feb. 26, 2017 at 8 a.m., at New Hope Baptist Church, 1321 Sistrunk Blvd., Fort Lauderdale, Fla. For more info contact Valecia Cespedes, at (754) 422-4505, Valceia2327@gmail.com

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.

Literary Events and Presentations · Friday, Feb. 3, 2017 from 6:30 to 9:30 p.m. - An Evening of Elegance & Glamour at Destination NYC – Harlem Renaissance. This age 21 and over event costs (payable at the door or through Eventbrite). For more info call (954) 357-6210.

Volunteers Needed for Event, if you would like to volunteer your assistance at this event for free admission, contact Steve Vinik, at (954) 357-6190 or svinik@broward.org Art and Film Events · Saturday, Feb. 4, from 12 to 2 p.m. – Black History Month: Art of the Harlem Renaissance, all ages. For more info call (954) 357-6282.

Music and Dance · Saturday, Feb. 4 - at 2 p.m.

- the community is invited to a free jazz performance led by Shenole Latimer. For more info call (954) 357-6210. · Saturday, Feb. 11, from 2 to 3:30 p.m. – Literature of the Harlem Renaissance” Rebirth of the Arts and Letters. For more info (954) 357-6282. · Saturday, Feb. 11, from 4 to 5:30 p.m. – Caribbean Influence on the Harlem Renaissance. For more info call (954) 357-6282. · Sunday, Feb. 11, at 1 p.m. – What’s All That Jazz About?

By Shinole Latimer, for all ages. For more info call (954) 357-6282.

Children, Teens and Families · Saturday, Feb. 25, from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. – Black History Month Essay Contest Awards Ceremony, teen program. For more info call (954) 357-6282. · Saturday, Feb. 25, from 2 to 4 p.m. – Elegance of the Harlem Renaissance Fashion Design Contest, teen program. For more info call (954) 357-6282.

Free Dental

Free Dental Care sign up now for FREE dental care on Aspen Dental’s MouthMobile on Tuesday, Feb. 21, 2017 from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m., at War Memorial Auditorium 800 N.E. Eight St., Fort Lauderdale, Fla. Dentists and teams from Aspen Dental will treat your most urgent dental needs and provide you with educational materials following your appointment. To make an appointment contact Julie Macias - 411 Veterans 954-703-4536 x 822.

Celebration

Residents of South Florida will enjoy a celebration of the African Diaspora, Friday, Feb. 17, 2017 from 6 to 11 p.m., at Hollywood Rotary Club, 2349 Taylor St., Hollywood, Fla. The event titled: African Diaspora Banquet and Cultural Night.

Tickets are available online go to https:// diasporabanquet.eventbrite.com.

For more info (305) 469-1882.

Festival

The City of Fort Piercem Florida, Second Annual Highwaymen Heritage Trail Art Show & Festival, Saturday, Feb. 18, 2017 from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m., at Moore's Creek Linear Park, N. 10 St., Park, Fort Pierce, Fla.

Event Join Judan Worship Word Ministries International, Sunday, Feb. 12 thru Wednesday, Feb. 15, 2017 for “Spiritual Renewal and Refreshing Revival, at 4441 W. Sunrise Blvd., Fort Lauderdale, Fla. For time and additional info call (954) 791-2999, Apostle W. L. Mitchell, senior pastor and Overseer.

Pleading Our Own Cause STAY CONNECTIONTED www.thewestsidegazette.com (954) 525-1489

Miami Dade College Celebrate Black Heritage Month with Free community Events · REWIND: Miami’s Color Line: Activists against Segregation every Tuesday and Thursday in February, from noon to 1:30 p.m., at Wolfson Campus, 300 N.E. Second Ave., Room 8401. For more info (305) 237-3536. · Storytelling throughout the African Diaspora on Wednesday, Feb. 1, 2017 from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m., at Hialeah Campus, 1776 W. 49 St., Room 5101B. For more info call (305) 237-8736. · Soul Food Demo, Wednesday, Feb. 1, at 11 a.m., at InterAmericam Campus, 627 S.W. 27 Ave. Room 3101. For more info call (305) 237-6163. · Finding Our Roots with Genetic Testing on Thursday, Feb. 2, from 11:15 a.m. to 12:20 p.m., at Homestead Campus, 500 College Terr., Room F222. For more info call (305) 237-5065. · A Timeline of the Abolition of Slavery in North, South America and the Caribbean on Thursday, Feb. 2, from 9:50 to 11:10 a.m., at InterAmerican Campus, 627 S.W. 27 Ave., Room 3103.

For more info call (305) 237-6163. · The Life and Poetry of Maya Angelou on Thursday, Feb. 2, from 10 to 11 a.m., at the West Campus, 3800 N.E. Second Ave., Room 1102. For more info call (305) 237-8904. · Celebrating the Culture of Contemporary Gospel and Dance on Friday, Feb. 3, from 7 to 10:30 p.m., at Wolfson Campus, 300 N.E. Second Ave., Room 1261. For more info call (305) 237-3536. · African American Read-In on Monday, Feb. 6, at 10 a.m., at the North Campus, 1138 N.W. 27 Ave., Room 3249. · Black Enterprise on Thursday, Feb. 7, from 10 to 11 a.m., at Kendall Campus, 11011 S.W. 104 St., Building R, Room 402/403.

For more info call (305) 237-2321. · Gospel Explosion and Soul Food Tasting on Saturday, Feb. 11, from 3 to 7 p.m., at the North Campus, 11380 N.W. 27 Ave., Science Complex Plaza. For more info call (305) 237-1250. · What It’s Like to Be a Professional African American Male in America on Wednesday, Feb. 15, from noon to 1:30 p.m., at Medical Campus, 950 N.W. 20 St., Room 1175. For more info call (305) 237-4213. · Closing Event: Gospel Music at West on Tuesday, Feb. 21, from 7 to 8:30 p.m., at West Campus, 3800 N.W. 115 Ave., Room 1102. For more info call (305) 237-8904. · Obama’s Presidency on Wednesday, Feb. 22, from 11 a.m. to noon, at Homestead Campus, 500 College Terr., Room F222. For more info call (305) 237-5065. · Building Resilience in African American Students on Wednesday, Feb. 22, from noon to 1 p.m., at Medical Campus, 950 N.W. 20 St., Student Life Lounge. For more info call (305) 2374213. · The National Crisis in Black Education on Thursday, Feb. 23, from 9:50 to 11:05 a.m., at Carrie P. Meek Entrepreneurial Education Center, 6300 N.W. Seventh Ave., Room 1109. For more info call (305) 237-1900. · Jump Into History: Double Dutch on Thursday, Feb. 23, from 6 to 7:30 p.m., at Hialeah Campus, 1776 W. 49 St., Room 5101.

For more info call (305) 237-8736. · The Sixth Annual South Florida Championship Step Show on Saturday, Feb. 25, at 6 p.m., at Kendall Campus, 11011 S.W. 104 St., Building 6, 6120. For more info call (305) 237-2321. · Mass Incarceration as an Extension if Slavery on Tuesday, Feb. 28, from 11:40 a.m. to 1:20 p.m., at Carrie Entrepreneurial Education Center, 6300 N.W. Seventh Ave., Atrium and Room 1103. For more info call (305) 237-1900.

Celebration

Les Bonnes Amies Club, Inc. (The Good Friends) is seeking former princes, and princesses, contestants, program participants, and scholarship recipients to join us in celebrating seven (7) decades of service to the Broward County community. Contact Mrs. Deloris Sumlin at (954) 548-7981 or Deloris-sumlin@yahoo.com

Fundraiser

Calling all Churches to Church Row!!! Relay for Life is the grassroot fundraiser for American Cancer Society, on Friday, May 19 -20, 2017 from 6 p.m. to 6 a.m., Joseph C. Carter Park in Fort Lauderdale at 1450 W. Sunrise Blvd., Fort Lauderdale, Fla. Carter Park – Relay for Life community bonds together and host an overnight event, full of music, food, and entertainment. For more info contact Rosalind Hankerson (954) 667-9025 Rosalind.CarterRelay@gmail.com

PAGE 4 • FEBRUARY 2 - FEBRUARY 8, 2017

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.

Luck - preparation meets opportunity:NNPA experience

By Byler Henry The NNPA (National Newspaper Publishers Association) celebrated190 years of the Black Press, hosting their annual conference in the beautiful city of Fort Lauderdale. I was blessed with an opportunity to volunteer at their conference and learn a thing or two along the way.

One of the few things was the importance of the Black Press and the community. As the word of the people we want to continue to flourish. for that to happen we need the commu-

nity to continue to support us. As the press, we can continue to gain the support of the community by printing the truth. The community needs a newspaper that will speak for them because they don’t have much of a voice on their own. However, with the press backing them up, many voices rang louder than one. In my time there, I was also fortunate to meet many members of the NNPA, all of which was an exciting opportunity. It is here that I began to learn the importance of networking which can be an important tool to get my foot in the door. In life it’s

not always what you know, but who you know. “Lean not on your own understanding.” – Proverbs 3:5 I also learned the importance of being prepared and how powerful prayer can be. On our last night, there was an awards dinner honoring Mr. Robert Bogle, President and CEO of the Philadelphia Tribune Newspaper, someone was needed to do the blessing of the food. I was asked about an hour before the event started, and I got butterflies in my stomach the size of eagles. Although I was nervous, a voice was reassuring me that I could

Lies, alternative facts, and falsehoods from theTrump camp

By Roger Caldwell There was a crane last week with a hanging sign that overlooked the White House that read “Resist.” All over the country there are demonstrations and protests, and these actions

are being directed at both parties as well as the federal government.

Democrats are voting in favor of President Trump’s nominees even if the candidate has no experience in the position, and they don’t appear to have a strategy. The Republicans have concerns about some of President Trump’s picks, and they have voiced their concerns publicly.

Senator Marco Rubio of Florida grilled Rex Tillerson, Exxon CEO (nominee for Secretary of State) on his cozy relationship with Vladimir Putin where he received the country’s Order of Friendship award, which just does not smell right. But when it was time for the committee vote, Republicans voted unanimously in favor of Trump’s nominee, although many knew it was a bad choice.

President Trump is a pathological liar, and it appears the work that he is doing will eventually divide and hurt America. As a bankrupted billionaire who is struggling to pay his bills, he will put America in the same position.

When Republicans agree to build a wall along the Mexican border, which Americans don’t need nor want, it is a terrible way to spend taxpayers’ dollars and run the country.

Republicans and many Democrats have been fooled into thinking that President Trump is smart, and he is making decisions based on facts. But our president is a comfortable liar, and in his world, there is no such thing as facts.

President Trump is a gangster and a bully, and is putting America on

notice. The next four years will be based on lies, alternative facts, and falsehoods and anyone working for the president will be expected to operate from the same platform and agenda.

Sean Spicer, the president’s new press secretary, on his first day in office claimed President Trump’s inauguration was the most watched in the history of the country. He refused to take questions, and the next day, Kellyanne Conway, one of Trump’s top advisers, went on NBC’s “Meet the Press” and defended Mr. Spicer’s statements and introduced the term “alternative facts.”

Matt Bai, reporter of the Political World, had this to say about “alternative facts: “But maybe someone should remind Conway and Spicer – well Ok, I’ll do it - that they don’t actually work for the Trump campaign or the Trump Organization anymore. They work for us. Their jobs exist to serve the public that pays them, and creating ‘alternative facts’ for the sole purpose of validating the president’s insecurities is not in their job description.”

The first week of the Trump administration was a symbolic show of a big deal of doing nothing.

The majority of his signed executive orders were large pieces of paper with President Trump’s signature on them of what he wants to do.

(Read full story on www.thewestsidegazette.com)

It’s time for the Democratic Party to wake up

By Lauren Victoria Burke (NNPA Newswire Contributor) Everyone appears to have figured out that a dangerous, stupid fascist with no knowledge of how the federal government works is now the President of the United States. Everyone, that is, accept members of the Democratic Party, now serving in the 115th Congress.

You have to wonder how many dangerously incompetent, racist and blindly ideological decisions the executive branch has to make before Democrats in the United States Congress, who are supposedly in the opposition party, wake up. What is the strategy? What is the plan? Trump’s careless staff couldn’t even spell the name of the Prime Minister of the United Kingdom correctly on a press release. What makes anyone think they’ll be more detailed on other initiatives they plan such as an “investigation of voting fraud” and selected members of the U.S. Supreme Court?

Be certain to take note of the Democrats who vote in favor of Trump’s cabinet nominees for Treasury, Education, Labor and Health and Human Services. If Democrats support Steve Mnuchin, Betsy DeVos, Andrew Puzder and Rep. Tom Price, there is no resistance movement in the Democratic Party in Congress.

Senate Democrats have unified against exactly zero of Trump’s cabinet nominees. Senator Elizabeth War-

ren (D-Mass.) who is allegedly a progressive leader, voted in favor of Dr. Ben Carson to lead a department he has no qualifications to run. Senator Cory Booker (DN.J.), who has great Sen. Chuck ScInstagram posts of humer (D-N.Y.), food, voted with Republicans to raise prescription drug prices.

Senators who have no re-election fears whatsoever in 2018 are lying down and showing no signs of resisting Trump when the easiest show of resistance is a simple “thumbs down” on the Senate floor.

Sen. Chuck Schumer (D-N.Y.), who took over as Democratic Leader from retired Sen. Harry Reid (D-Nev.), so far has decided to vote in favor of almost all of Trump’s nominees. What makes this even more confusing is that the messaging of Democratic leaders is the opposite of the action. The Democratic Party is at its lowest point in four decades in terms of seats held in the U.S. House of Representatives, governors’ houses and seats in state legislatures. With Trump’s arrival and no strategy to be seen, there has never been a better argument for younger and newer leadership.

(Read full story on www.thewestsidegazette.com)

do it. I was a little hesitant at first, but I accepted the opportunity. I said a little prayer a few minutes after my acceptance.

Once I got on the podium the words came out of me, in one fluid motion.

In life you may be thrown a curveball, but there is always a reason you are put in situations. You will not understand it right away, but you will see when you look back. I learned that in my three days there that your heavenly father will paint a picture that you will not understand because you can’t see it when you are in the midst of it. But when he feels you are ready he will pull you out to see the beautiful painting that he created.

Being American: The first seven days of DonaldTrump’s presidency

By Duvalier Malone In America, we the people truly do choose our leaders. Through our democratic process, Donald Trump was chosen by the people to be our President. It was a moment of pride to watch former President Obama exude grace and dignity as he participated in the peaceful transfer of power, which is the hallmark of our democracy.

But something else exists as a democratic hallmark in our society: The ability of Americans to peacefully gather to make our voices heard through protest and demonstration.

Millions of people – women, men, whites, Blacks, Latinos, gay and straight – came together for the Women’s March. The march has been recognized as the largest protest to ever take place on American soil.

Right after President Trump was inaugurated, the new White House website went live, and we were presented with the President’s digital platform. I was appalled to see that the civil rights, LGBTQ, climate change and even disability sections of the website had been pulled down and replaced with fringe issues that do not represent the majority of Americans.

This is what prompted me to join the Women’s March; and I was proud to join these powerful women as we presented the diversity of America to the world, and protested the dangerous policies of President Trump. We all took a stand - not only for women, but for all Americans.

Our American society is so very different and diverse, and it’s important that this diversity is represented in President Trump’s administration.

Even though the Women’s March is over, we still must continue our stand of solidarity with one another.

It’s important that Americans continue to make our voices heard.

When he won the presidency, Donald Trump was endowed with the power to lead our country in the direction that he sees fit. But every single American is endowed from birth with the power to raise our voices high, and engage our leaders, and even educate them where it’s needed. This is how we hold our leaders accountable to us, the people.

During his first seven days, President Trump has issued many controversial executive orders that may greatly impact the state of Mississippi, as well as the rest of the country.

One of the president’s moves was to pull the U.S out of the Trans-Pacific Partnership (also known as TPP).

(Read full story on www.thewestsidegazette.com)

A message from the Badlands National Park to President Trump 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.

Audrey Peterman: author, speaker, advocate reconnecting people to nature, promoting enjoyment and stewardship of our public lands Dear President Trump, You may not know me, but I certainly know you.

I was here long before you and your ancestors arrived in North America.

For more than 75 million years I’ve been evolving here, pressed by the same continental plates that pushed up the Rocky Mountains, sculpted by wind and water until I became a place of phantasmagoric shapes

that leave today’s visitors awestruck.

Some say I remind them of the Valley of the Kings in Egypt or the Temples of Angkor Wat in Cambodia, though no human hand had any role in creating me.

The softness of the Earth that makes me and the rainbow colors striating my huge walls show off the treasure trove of history I have experienced. In 2010, for example, a seven year old Junior Ranger found the fossil of a saber tooth cat right outside my Visitor Center. I’m part of a ground-breaking collaboration between the National Park Service and Native Nations, as my Pine Ridge area is managed by

the Oglala Sioux Tribe, descendants of the age-old Native inhabitants.

Mr. President, my sublime environs were the setting of the Badlands Astronomical Festival in 2012 where my surrogate writer met the astronaut

The Gantt Report Immigration ignorance

By Lucius Gantt Where would President Donald Trump, his ancestors, his wife, his business partners and other United States citizens of European descent be if Native Americans stood at the shores 400 years ago with bows and arrows and banned immigrants who wanted to come to America?

Terrorism is defined as the use of terror and violence to intimidate and subjugate, especially as a political policy.

The President’s recent Executive Order was allegedly a political policy aimed at making Americans safe by banning entry into the United States by people from seven predominately Muslim countries that seek to enter U.S. cities.

Well, terrorism comes in all races, creeds, skin colors and faiths. Why the President suggested in his Order that the arbitrary selection of certain countries will make America safer, I don’t know.

Religious groups have terrorized and fought each other for thousands of years. If people who are Christians feel threatened by Muslims who talk about Jihad against non-believers, you should go and check out how Muslims felt during the Christian Crusades!

The Crusades were a series of devastating, bloody and murderous religious wars sanctioned by the Latin Church in the medieval period, especially the campaigns in the Eastern Mediterranean, with the aim of capturing Jerusalem and the Holy Land from Islamic rule, to recapture Christian territory and defend Christian pilgrims.

The executive order Trump signed Friday bars all entry for the next 90 days by travelers from Syria, Iran, Iraq, Yemen, Sudan, Somalia and Libya. Excluded from the lists are several majority-Muslim nations where the Trump Organization is active and which in some cases have also faced troublesome issues with terrorism.

(Read full story on www.thewestsidegazette.com)

In this issue Welcome to the final issue of the Black AIDS Weekly that we will publish in 2016.

From holding PrEP Summits around the nation, to covering the International AIDS Conference in Durban, South Africa, to honoring Lee Daniels and a host of other notables at the Heroes in the Struggle Award Ceremony, it has truly been an amazing year. For the next six weeks we will not publish the Black AIDS Weekly, but will instead turn the attention of our entire organization to grant-writing and other strategic activities. We will resume publication in time to mark National Black HIV/AIDS Awareness Day on February 7, 2017.

In this issue we close out the year by telling you about the AIDS 2016 community update that took place in Melbourne, Florida. Our friends at Kaiser Health News report on the State of California’s new “Getting to Zero” plan to increase surveillance and access to care and eliminate treatment disparities. We also important new research about the increase in multidrug resistance.

The Centers for Disease Control reports that only about one-quarter of those who inject drugs are always using sterile syringes, with one-third reporting that they shared a needed during the past year, dramatically increasing the odds they will acquire HIV or hepatitis. CDC has also published its 27th HIV Surveillance Report on the nation’s HIV epidemic.

Though there is some good news overall for Black America, a tremendous amount of work remains to be done.

And the Black AIDS Institute will be here to do it.

Enjoy the holidays and your blessings as you gear up for the new year.

Yours in the struggle, Phill Story Musgrave, who fixed the lens of the Hubble Telescope in outer space.

Mr. President, I am reaching out to you because I am disturbed by the approach your administration is taking to the Park Service and the Department of Interior. I am particularly struck by your response to social media posts emanating from the Service, and from me.

As I understand it, one of the people working here tweeted: Today, the amount of carbon dioxide in the atmosphere is higher than at any time in the last 650,000 years” #climate.

Mr. President that is a fact. It is not conjecture, nor is it intended to embarrass you.

(Read full story on www.thewestsidegazette.com)

www.thewestsidegazette.com

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

Church Directory

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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 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!

Obituaries James C. Boyd Funeral Home BRYANT Funeral services for the late Jessie Bryant, Jr. – 58.

Harris Chapel United Methodist Church Rev. Stanley Melek, M.Div

CHARLTON Funeral services for the late Dywaina Charlton - 50 were held Jan. 28 at Jehovah’s Witnesses Kingdom Hall of North Lauderdale with Brother Cliff Nelson officiating. Interment: Forest Lawn Memorial Gardens (Central).

DANIEL Funeral services for the Melvin Daniel – 59.

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.

KNOWLES Funeral services for the late Christifa Alexander Knowles, Sr. – 60 were held Jan. 28 at New Hope Baptist Church with Apostle Mishel Clair officiating. Interment: Forest Lawn Memorial Gardens (Central).

LINDO Funeral services for the late Garth Anthony Lindo - 53 were held Jan. 28 at James C. Boyd’s Memorial Chapel with Pastor L.L. Ward officiating.

Mount Calvary Baptist Church

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

Reverend Anthony Burrell, Pastor SCHEDULE OF SERVICES SUNDAY

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

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

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

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

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

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

Mount Hermon A.M.E. Church Reverend Henry E. Green, Jr., Pastor 401 N.W. 7th Terrace, Fort Lauderdale, FL 33311 Phone: (954) 463-6309 FAX 954 522-4113 Office Hours: Tuesday - Friday 8:30 a.m. to 6:30 p.m.

Email infor@mthermonftl.com

SUNDAY CHURCH SERVICES Worship Service ..................................................................... 7:30 & 10:30 a.m.

Fifth Sunday ONLY .................................................................................... 10 a.m.

Church School ........................................................................................ 9:15 a.m.

BIBLE STUDY: Wednesday ....................................................................... 10 a.m.

Gems & Jewels Ministry Senior Wednesday Wednesday (Bible Study) .................................................... 12 Noon & 7 - 8 p.m.

Daily Prayer Line ...................................................................................... 6 a.m.

(712)432-1500 Access Code296233#

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Attend A Church Of Your Choice

FEBRUARY 2 - FEBRUARY 8, 2017 • PAGE 5

PATRICK Funeral services for the late Cheryl Kim Patrick – 58 were held Jan. 28 at James C. Boyd’s Memorial Chapel with Elder Joe Roger Patrick officiating. Interment: Sunset Memorial Gardens.

McWhite's Funeral Home BAILEY Funeral services for the late Dorothy J. Bailey were held Jan. 28 at New Mount Olive Baptist Church.

HARRIS Funeral services for the late Jimmie Lee Harris were held Jan. 28 at McWhite’s Funeral Home Chapel with Rev. Jonathan R. Howard, Sr., officiating.

PHILLIPS Funeral services for the late Leon L. Phillips - 48 were held Jan. 28 at McWhite’s Funeral Home Chapel.

Interment: Sunset Memorial Gardens.

WALLACE Funeral services for the late Khoran Charles Wallace - 29 were held Jan. 28 at Gateway Church with Rev. Renford Williams officiating. Interment: Sunset Memorial Gardens.

WATSON Funeral services for the late Kendrick Leon – 28 were held

Jan. 28 at Greater Providence Missionary Baptist Church with Dr. W.M. Ramsey officiating. Interment: Sunset Memorial Gardens.

Williams Memorial CME “PRAYER IS THE ANSWER” 644-646 NW 13th Terrace Fort Lauderdale, Florida 33311 (954) 462-5711(Ministry Office Line) (954) 462-8222(Pastor’s Direct Line) Email: wm_cme@bellsouth.net (Church} pastorCal50@yahoo.com (Pastor)

Rev. Cal Hopkins.

M.Div) Senior Pastor/Teacher

The WITNESS of “The WILL” Sunday Worship Experiences ................................................................ 7:45 and 11:00 a.m.

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

Tuesday Night Triumph {Prayer, Praise and Power} Prayer Meeting ................................................................................................................ 7:00 p.m.

Bible Study ........................................................................................................................ 7:30 p.m.

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

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

Roy Mizell & Kurtz Q&A: WHAT DOES REVEREND DEAL SAY? Funeral Home ‘Healing of the body is not the most DORSETT Funeral services for the late Theresa Woods-Dorsett 57 were held Jan. 28 at Roy Mizell & Kurtz Worship Center with Rev. D’Mrtri Crafton Burke officiating.

Interment: Sunset Memorial Gardens.

KUMA Funeral services for the late Raymond Nelson Kuma, III 74 were held Jan. 27 at Roy Mizell & Kurtz Funeral Home with Pastor Wayne Lomax officiating. Interment: South Florida National VA Cemetery, Lake Worth, Fla. THORNTON Funeral services for the late Rosa Thornton – 85 were held Jan. 28 at Greater Faith Church of Christ with Elder Pernell Harden officiating. Interment: Sunset Memorial Gardens.

Give Thanks to the LORD For He is good: His Love Endures Forever Psalm 107:1

important thing’

Question: If God loves us so why are not all healed?

Answer: There is a study entitled” The Doctrine of Divine Healing. In the study of Divine Healing several topics are covered such as the origin of sickness, the spiritual nature of healing, and healing and atonement, and other topics concerning healing. One of the redemptive names of the great Jehovah is JEHOVAH – RAPHA meaning “The Lord thy Physician”. If God is omnipotent and God is full of love and compassion, it would appear that whenever we pray we should be healed of our diseases. It doesn’t work as such. The fault does not lie with God. Man has to be the blame. Either the one who is praying or the one receiving prayer.

One should realize that the healing of the body is not the most important thing that can happen to us. When your spiritual growth is enhanced, when you realize that nothing else matters except your daily walk with God, your salvation is greater than physical health. There is no doubt that God wants us to enjoy the benefits of living a life that includes physical, financial, emotional and spiritual blessings. But, why are we not healed immediately when we request from God? Maybe we’re seeking healing before salvation. It is possible to seek healing for the wrong purpose (James 4:3). Are you looking to the preacher or the prophet rather than to Christ (Acts 3:4)? Are you disobedient to the word of God (Exodus 3:6)? Do you really believe in the one who prays (James 5:15)? And do you believe in the one prayed for (Hebrews 11:6)?

Remember that disease comes from satan, and there will be times when he will seek to hinder the deliverance (Daniel 10:1214). Believe in your prayers in faith and wait for an answer to be manifested. “He might not come when you want Him; but he is always on time”.

Reverend David Deal is the senior pastor at Every Christian Church in Fort Lauderdale, Fla. Reverend Deal can be reached in care of the spiritual editor at the Westside Gazette, 545 N.W. Seventh Terrace, Fort Lauderdale, Fla 33311, or email at David.deal55@Gmail.com

Mount Hermon AME Church Greek Unity Day 2017 (Cont'd from FP) The Keynote Speaker for this year’s program is Bishop Teresa E. Snorton. Bishop Snorton is a member of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Inc. Bishop Teresa E. Snorton is the 59th Bishop and the first female Bishop in the Christian Methodist Episcopal Church since its founding in 1870. She is Presiding Bishop of the Fifth Episcopal District, which includes the states of Alabama and Florida. She is the Chair of the Board of Trustees of Miles College; Chair of the Board of Directors of the Miles Foundation Service Corporation; and Ecumenical Officer and Endorsing Agent for the CME Church.

Bishop Snorton also serves as a member of the Pan-Methodist Commission; Chair of the Family Life Committee of the World Methodist Council; Member of the Board of Directors of the World Methodist Evangelism, Inc.; Chair of the Board of Directors of the National Institute for Human Development; and a Member of the Advisory Board for Candler School of Theology at Emory University. Within the CME Church, she is a Member of the Board of Directors for the Connectional Headquarters; Chair of the Committee on Emergency Relief; and Vice-Chair of the Advisory Committee for Communications, Information and Technology. During 2013-2014,

she served as Chair of the College of Bishops of the CME Church.

Bishop Snorton is the founder of the empowerment conference “The Phenomenal Women’s Summit” and an advocate for healthy communities and healthy churches through initiatives such as: the Academy for Public Theology; the Church Garden Project; Faith and Fitness; Mental Health Education for Congregations; and the Rural Leadership Development Institute.

Bishop Snorton earned a Bachelor of Arts Degree from Vanderbilt University; a Master of Divinity Degree from Louisville Presbyterian Theological Seminary; a Master of Theology Degree from Southern Baptist Theological Seminary; a Post-Graduate Certificate in Patient Counseling from Virginia Commonwealth University; and the Doctor of Ministry Degree from United Theological Seminary in Dayton, Ohio.

Bishop Snorton is a Certified Clinical Pastoral Educator (CPE Supervisor) and a Board Certified Chaplain with the Association of Professional Chaplains. She is a member of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Inc. She previously served as Pastor in Kentucky, and served on ministerial staffs in Virginia and Georgia. Additionally, she served as the Executive Director for the National Association for Clinical Pastoral Education (2000-2012); and as Ex-

ecutive Director and an Education Director in the Emory Center for Pastoral Services (1990-2000).

Her publications include several chapters and edited books related to pastoral care, pastoral education and women’s issues. She has taught at the Candler School of Theology at Emory University (19912010); Virginia Commonwealth University (19871990); and the School of Theology at Virginia Union University (1988-90).

She is a native of Kentucky and the mother of two adult sons and has two grandchildren.

Happy Birthday Dr. Mack King Carter

Feb. 4, 2017

From your Extended Family the Westside Gazette We Love You.

PAGE 6 • FEBRUARY 2 - FEBRUARY 8, 2017

Westside Gazette

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Westside Gazette

FEBRUARY 2 - FEBRUARY 8, 2017 • PAGE 7

Roose velt McClar y III: Br owar d Teac her s oosev McClary Bro ard eacher hers Union ffir ir st Blac k Secr etar y irst Black Secretar etary

By Nichole Richards

Understanding why I am I Shirley Thimothee-Paul “People pay for what they do and still more for what they allowed themselves to become. And they pay for it very simply; by the lives they lead”. James Bladwin (1924-1987) We rarely question what makes us behave the way we behave.

We, as the African American community for the most part are simply living life day to day. If this was not so, the images of us would not so broadly lean toward the negative. We as a community would not be simply “getting by” but focused on our everyday impact on society. We would consciously live in the present to better shape the history of tomorrow. As we move toward Black History month, we must look at all that has happened in the resent years and what they will mean to us in the future and centuries to come. How legacies and the making of such should be a motivating factor to the youth and our guarantee of success in our communities.

As a young woman of Haitian decent, it is important for me to understand my similarities to those that I share a history with as well as strengths, desires and current obstacles.

Looking back at the civil rights era and what motivated people of that time to take part and move forth in a mission that has had lifelong impacts on our world today is as important as all the determining factors in the success of the future before us.

Asking the pressing questions like, what inner desire for freedom and equality led our forefathers to decide that the mistreatment of Blacks was not only morally improper but also unlawful? Was it the ever remaining forces of the souls of our ancestors that hover over us and connect with us in song and dream that guided us?

What happened to that force? When did mediocrity or less become something to be satisfied with or better yet the norm? Has this been the result of what has been done to us or what we have allowed to be done to us?

As a people we have the ability to use our history as a map as well as a reminder of just how much we are capable of overcoming.

Perhaps when the month of February is seen to us simply as another passing month to continue to focus on our heritage, then maybe we will regain the driving force to stay committed to be more and do more. It is only then that the stories of crime, disease, and poverty not be used synonymously with the description of us and no longer be a belief of those that do not look like us but to those who do as well. Then and only then we will begin to understand why we are who we are and more personally, why I am I. Shirley Thimothee-Paul MSN, RN is a member of the Greater Fort Lauderdale chapter of the National Black Nurses Association.

New Broward Teachers Union Secretary, Roosevelt McClary III, handles the historical weight of his August 2016 win with admirable humility. The youngest and first Black Secretary of BTU, McClary is entirely focused on the lives he could serve, a theme that dominated our conservation. He represents an emerging leadership in Broward County that refuses to disconnect from their roots and stories, consumed with the urgency of their work and what they represent to youth.

Prior to our meeting I envisioned McClary a stereotypical leader of the old guard, complete with business suit and tie, eager to expound upon his accomplishments, awards, and goals for the future. However, I was greeted with an individual blessed with a welcoming air of informality, dressed in jeans and at ease. McClary had just left Lauderdale Lakes Middle School where he continues to serve as a Behavioral Technician despite occupying BTU’s Secretary seat. It is just one of the many pieces of evidence demonstrating McClary’s unconventional leadership style; never before has a BTU Secretary maintained a part-time position with a school. His continued engagement with students and the classroom has the potential of reshaping the expectations and roles of future BTU executives.

“I love my job as a Behavioral Technician,” McClary tells me, “It keeps me connected to the kids. I don’t want to leave them.”

McClary’s commitment to the youth of Lauderdale Lakes Middle goes deeper than professional responsibility. He sees himself in them. A Broward native hailing from Fort Lauderdale’s Oriole Estates, McClary grew up in an environment rife with opportunities to make regrettable choices. He has his own story to tell.

“I didn’t make the right decisions,” McClary recounts, “My

life was very similar to the students I work with.”

It was not until the arrest and imprisonment of one of his closest friends that McClary realized his choices would guarantee incarceration. He then embarked upon a journey to radically transform his behavior and thinking. He calls this process “positive mind development”.

“It was important for me to surround myself with positive people and think positive thoughts,” McClary explained, “Then, I started to strengthen positive decision making skills that began to change my life.”

He soon took a job with the YMCA where his passion for youth development was first ignited, afterwards transitioning to work with Broward County Public Schools as a classroom assistant and, finally, a beloved Behavioral Technician. It was here McClary was able to make first-hand observations on the state of public education, becoming inspired by students and teachers to act and question an antiquated educational process. After the birth of his daughter, now five years old, McClary became determined to expand his reach and aspired higher.

“I am committed to fighting for what’s best for the next generation,” McClary explained, “When my daughter was born, my fight for education became personal. I ran for a BTU position before, but was denied.”

A shrug. A smile.

His casual treatment of a former defeat was striking. It demonstrated his perseverance in the face of adversity and an acceptance of a temporary setback, for his current seat ranks higher than the one he originally sought.

“You never know what God has in store for you.” He stated.

What took others 10-15 years, McClary accomplished in six, making his transformation from reckless youth to influential Secretary an extraordinary ascension story Broward youth must hear. McClary

(Freddie Allen/AMG/NNPA) seeks to emphasize to youth the dramatic effect of surrounding oneself with positive, forwardmoving, and ambitious people.

He desires to represent for youth the serious importance of changing one’s mindset from hopelessness to hopefulness. According to him, these are necessary and available ingredients for success.

But what about the role of education in success? What can our public education system do to ensure youth have the necessary skills to be great? Of course, McClary’s answer advocated for the essential role of the educator.

“Teaching is not evolving with the times, “McClary responded, “Because of over-testing, our public education system restricts teacher creativity and innovation. Now, our children lack critical-thinking skills and students are not thinking for themselves. And as a result, positive decision making skills suffer.” In re-sponse to this reality, McClary feels it is his responsibility to be accessible and open with his story and hopes to acquire opportunities to talk to youth struggling in their dayto-day lives. He feels compelled to stand in the gap and encourage them to strive for greatness.

Naturally, given the hot political climate, the historical im-

portance of being the first Black BTU Secretary, and the approaching Black History Month, our conversation turned to racial issues and how Blacks can assert themselves into the national dialogue. I asked him to share his perspective on the state of the Black community and what his win represents.

“Do you really want to know?” he asked. His response definitely piqued my interest.

“There is an African proverb that says ‘If there is no enemy within, the enemy outside can do you no harm’,” McClary explained, “I think the Black community has been indoc-trinated with self-hate. If we do not love each other, how can we expect others to respect us? Black people have an incredible amount of healing to do. We have to stop Black-on-Black crime and build self-love and self-respect.”

The critique came out like a flood. It was obvious he was passionate about his stance and fully open to serving as a vehicle for the much needed inner healing of the Black community.

With such a strong position, I asked if political aspirations were in his future.

“Absolutely,” he responded, “As the BTU Secretary I have had opportunities to meet Broward’s leadership and I am inspired by the possibility of changing lives on a broader scale.”

PAGE 8 • FEBRUARY 2 - FEBRUARY 8, 2017

Westside Gazette

Commissioner Holness recognizes volunteers for 'Paint the Town Blue' Day

Broward County Commissioner Dale Holness (front center) honored 13 staff members from Turner Construction Company.

By Lahoma Scarlette BROWARD COUNTY, FL – Broward County Commissioner Dale V.C. Holness honored 13 staff members from Turner Construction Company for their volunteer work during the company’s Paint the Town Blue community outreach program.

From April 30 to May 7 of

last year, Turner’s staff members assisted seven organizations within South Florida and three in Central Florida, with a variety of improvement projects, including painting, community clean ups, and small landscaping projects . Among the South Florida organizations to receive assistance was the Sistrunk Historical Festival, Inc., which requested a 3,000

Broward Days Teams with Broward Legislative Delegation and Broward County to promote Broward County in Tallahassee and the State

Mike Colodny, Chair Broward Days

Bobby DuBose, Chair Broward Days Broward Legislative Delegation To assist in presenting Broward County’s image and values to Florida’s state-level policymakers, Broward Days, a non-partisan legislative advocacy group, has initiated efforts to team up with the Broward Legislative Delegation Office to promote Broward County in Tallahassee and throughout the state.

Broward Delegation Chair Bobby DuBose and Broward Days Chairman Mike Colodny made the announcement at a meeting of the Broward Delegation on Jan. 19, 2017.

“Broward County has a great story to tell and a unified, cohesive message is critical to getting our County’s message heard in Tallahassee,” Mr. Colodny explained.

“The Delegation is excited to take a more active role in Broward Days 2017. Our Dele-

gation office staff will help assist in taking Broward Days back to the days of old. Let’s connect and showcase our great county,” Representative Bobby DuBose, House Democratic Leader Pro Tempore and Broward Legislative Delegation Chair said.

Broward Days’ Board of Directors, which includes representatives from major economic, civic and advocacy groups, will remain in place, is planning the annual Broward Days trip to Tallahassee, along with activities in Broward County seeking to have state legislators personally visit Broward County. The administrative aspect of the transition to this new effort are already underway.

Broward Days will hold its next annual Tallahassee Trip on Wednesday, March 15-16, 2017. An agenda is being formulated and will be announced shortly.

Registration for attendance at the event can be found at www.BrowardDays.com.

square foot public wall on Sistrunk Boulevard be painted and power washed. The public wall is located East of 31 Ave. /West of 28 Ave. in the Broward Municipal Services District (BMSD), Fort Lauderdale.

“Anytime public and private sector can come together for the good of the community, we all win. I’d like to thank Turner Construction Company for doing this work in the BMSD and helping to beautify Sis-trunk Boulevard. Projects like this are part of my effort, along with community partners, to revitalize the northwest area of Sistrunk Boulevard with the Destination Sistrunk initiative which will bring more economic development opportunities for the residents and businesses in this area,” said Commissioner Holness.

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Trell in the City

Westside Gazette

POWER THROUGH: T ruth & Consequences Truth “The ultimate measure of a man is not where he stands in moments of comfort and convenience, but where he stands in times of challenge and controversy”. ~Dr. Martin L. King Jr. In our disadvantaged communities, there may be a tipping point at which rigorous crime policies and practices can do more harm than good. But there is a growing body of evidence in the African American communities that suggest that this may not always be the case.

My continuing observation shows the effects of what time in prison has on individuals, their family, home and community. Depending on the preparation, children are negatively affected when parents go into prison, as well as when they return.

While reparatory justice is essential, it is also necessary to

equip those within our community with economic savoir-faire. It’s time to power through and rise up to the challenge in our communities.

Researchers are increasingly finding that both the collateral consequences of imprisonment, and living in communities from which many of the imprisoned come from and return to, do have detrimental effects. I believe this is shortly true; an initial account has to be given to the individual unless they are wrongly accused. None of us know what tomorrow may bring, but today we need to power through and create an agenda to build Black futures.

This would cause the demand for Black-owned establishments to rise, and would ultimately complete the cycle of encouraging others to open new businesses to do the same.

Minister Louis Farrakhan said, “Look at us. We all wear shoes, but we have no shoe factories. If the cattle give its hide

to the Caucasian people so that they can take that hide, tan it, and make shoes for themselves, would not the same cattle give their hides to you and me? Was it not a Black man who invented the machine which revolutionized the shoe industry? Yet we profit nothing from his genius”. It’s time to power through in our African American communities by supporting the misguided.

How do we start you ask?

Here are some things we can do before tragedy strikes to better the Black community and move us forward. Support and recommend Black businesses; it is imperative we support our businesses operating in our community to circulate the funds among one another and lift our economy. We spend over $1 trillion dollars a year and less than 3% is with Black owned businesses. This is unacceptable. I am not saying you should support a business purely because they are Black. They

Roosevelt McClary III motivates students during ESSA/NNPA unique challenges facing “I didn’t tell anyone in my Workshop paraprofessionals, inside and family yet,” said McClary. “I (Cont'd from FP) The Broward County native said that he also understands the needs of students in urban communities because he grew up attending public schools on the rough eastside of Fort Lauderdale.

When he was asked what advice he would give to kids growing up on the eastside of Fort Lauderdale, who are trying to stay out of trouble now, he said, “Remember your associations,” and you will only “go as far as your top 10 friends.”

McClary is on a mission to strengthen relationships between paraprofessionals and teachers. He served as an educational support professional for six years, an experience that helps him to identify with the

outside of the classroom.

The young secretary is very adamant in serving the members of the Broward Teachers Union. He said that, as he continues to address the needs of the union members, leading by example, he thinks that the teachers will genuinely give back their time to help find solutions so that BTU can have a stronger voice and better relationships with teachers, parents, and the school district.

McClary pointed out that he is very intentional about setting goals, adding that he approaches each one optimistically. The young union secretary made it clear that one of his long-term goals is to be elected the first and youngest African American U.S. senator to represent the state of Florida.

didn’t tell anyone.”

His advice to students striving to succeed is to find 1,000 ways to keep going and achieve your goals, instead of getting lost in the ways that you can fail.

“Anything can happen,” said McClary. “It all depends on your mindset.”

Dervina ‘Nicole Narae’ Knowles is a radio personality and motivational millennial.

She is a contributing writer for “The Westside Gazette.” Nicole is an entertainment and lifestyle journalist who specializes in brand marketing and social media management.She spends her free time lounging on the beach, visiting museums and mentoring young girls in her community. You can reach Nicole by email at nicolenarae@gmail.com.

need to be worthy of your support.

Despite the slow transformation, I will continue to pray, support, lead, encourage, market, and research for a better tomorrow for Black-owned businesses by educating ex-convicts and teaching our children more than just going to school ~ teach them to be their own boss.

We are here and we are not going anywhere…… Let’s Power Through!

FEBRUARY 2 - FEBRUARY 8, 2017 • PAGE 9

N ominations w ant ed ffor or want anted outstanding seniors The Aging and Disability Resource Center is seeking nominations for the 2017 Broward Senior Hall of Fame. Candidates must be Broward County residents, 60 years of age and older, who have performed in a highly commendable manner, in the Broward County Volunteer Sector for five years or more.

Nominations, in 200 words or less, should include: the senior’s name, age, address, telephone number, email address, and a description of why the individual is being nominated.

Electees will be honored at a special breakfast in May, which is Older American’s Month.

Brother Poem

By Dwight Jones

Black lives matter, yeah they do But what does it matter if we Killin off each otha?

Said we had anothera’s back Even though we stay killin ar brothas.

And brotha, just like the big bang; There’s a big bang!

And there goes another brotha building Anotha’s grave.

There’s a lot goin on in this world Rajon, Know the real from the fakes The friends from the snakes And brotha, think before every move you make Cuz this world is evil, The flesh is critical, And the people stereotypical, Not every Black man ends up shot Or a criminal So show em brotha Show em what you make of And when you finished, Thank the man above!

Rev. William Barber tell Black Press To a chorus of “Amens,” Barber said that the one thing that we have to first decide to do in this moment is that bowing down is not an option.

Recognizing that he was addressing a room full of journalists and publishers, Barber pitched ideas for a number of articles and commentaries.

“Somebody has to unpack ‘socalled’ white evangelicalism that is illogical malpractice and heresy,” said Barber. “We’ve got to have some papers that write and do some investigative work to connect the money to White evangelicalism to the policies of extremism and racism, because some of our own folk are sending money to some of these TV White evangelicals.”

Barber said that the loss of the full protections of the Voting Rights Act and voter suppression were two of the most underreported stories during the last election cycle.

“Long before any Russian hack, the American electoral process was hacked by systemic racism and fear,” said Barber.

“The Southern Strategy is alive and well.”

Barber acknowledged that civil rights leaders and Democrats could have voiced louder criticism about the lack of work done in the U.S. Congress to restore the Voting Rights Act. “Democrats talked more about David Dukes than they did about voter suppression and the Voting Rights Act being dismantled,” said Barber.

Barber said that they were 868 fewer voting places across the nation; those closures disproportionately affected Black voters.

“Voter suppression has been proven, voter fraud has been disproven. The lie about voter fraud is a distraction from the truth about voter suppression, because voter suppression is about thievery. You scratch a

Lawyers' committee goes on red alert (Cont'd from FP)

Brotha, can you hear the chains?

The chains of the very same thing, That very same thing we were talking about?

Black on Black crime.

(Cont'd from FP)

Their names also will be placed on a plaque that is displayed in the Broward County Government Building.

Nominations should be received by the ADRC on or before the end of business on Friday, March 3, 2017. Mail the data to: Broward Senior Hall of Fame, 5300 Hiatus Road, Sunrise, FL 33351; Email to: jonesd@adrcbroward.org; or send your data online at: http:/ /adrcbroward.org/ seniorhalloffame.php.

For further information, please call the Aging and Disability Resource Center at (954) 745-9567.

liar, you’ll find a thief,” said Barber. “Trump won because of the voter suppression that went on in the Black community.”

After delivering a brief history of fusion politics, a time when poor whites and Blacks worked together to achieve political power in the South following the Civil War, Barber questioned why so many poor, White people today cast votes for lawmakers that oppose establishing living wage standards, better healthcare and more educational opportunities for low-income families.

The North Carolina pastor noted that there are 18.9 poor white people in the United States, about eight million more than the number of poor Black people, though Black people experience poverty at higher rates than whites.

Barber said that exploring the real reasons why so many poor whites vote against their own self-interest, would make for a great investigative report.

Returning to the theme that today’s political environment in America is nothing new, Barber told the story of Shadrach, Meshach and Abednego, who he described as “three millennials from the Bible days,” that liked to write and Nebuchadnezzar, “a maniacal egomaniac who loved to tweet out his own news,” loved to build towers and invited people to come to his towers to bow down.

When Nebuchadnezzar commanded that everyone bow down to his image and Shadrach, Meshach and Abednego refused, the king threatened to throw them into the furnace.

“He didn’t know they already had a fire. They came from people who had been through the fire,” said Barber. “They remembered how the lord had dealt with pharaoh. They remembered how David dealt with Goliath.”

Barber said that the three

The Lawyers’ Committee held a conference call on January 24 with the press on the current state of play in civil rights policy as the Trump Administration begins.

“We are concerned about the statements of President Trump which are an invitation for voter suppression tactics to be put on the books,” said Kristen Clarke, the president of the Lawyers’ Committee for Civil Rights Under Law. Civil rights groups are reeling from the number of moves the new administration has made in less than a week in office. Despite the situation, some hope was renewed by the massive and historic turnout of the Women’s March on January 21, the day after Trump’s inauguration.

In addition, the Lawyers’ Committee says, “the names of new leadership at the Justice Department have been announced and include individuals with track records of fighting against civil rights in the areas of voting.”

(Read full story on www.thewestsidegazette.com) young leaders had a fire in them, because they sung the songs of their ancestors.

“Can we just make a decision, Black folks? Can we just make a decision, publishers?

Can we just make a decision, civil rights…that bowing down is not an option?” Barber implored. “I gotta suspicion that it’s going be some fiery times. I gotta suspicion that it’s gonna get hot. I gotta suspicion that Nebuchadnezzar is gonna do some rough stuff.”

Barber implored the publishers, journalists and activists in the room to go into the proverbial fire standing up, because help won’t come, if you go in the fire bowing down.

“If you go in the fire standing up, God can transform the fire and the same fire that was meant to destroy you, can become a fire of deliverance!”

Barber shouted.

The crowd roared, delivering Barber a standing ovation. The Moral Mondays leader continued: “Bowing down is not an option! Standing down is not an option! Looking down is not an option! Breaking down is not an option! We’ve been through worse before.” Barber exclaimed. “We’ve been through slavery. We’ve been through Jim Crow. We’ve been through the Trail of Tears and we’re gonna stand up in this moment!”

The next day at the conference, Barber committed to writing a regular guest column for the NNPA Newswire that will be distributed throughout the NNPA’s network of 211 Black-owned media properties and will reach an estimated 20 million readers in print and online.

“Somebody has to write from the perspective of crisis, even if the crisis doesn’t end immediately,” Barber explained.

“Somebody has to make sure that there is a witness that [the Black Press] didn’t go along with it. So we have to do that.”

PAGE 10 • FEBRUARY 2 - FEBRUARY 8, 2017

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By Stacy M. Brown (The Washington Informer/ NNPA Member) More than six decades after the horrific, racially-motivated murder of Emmett Till, the white woman who accused the Chicago teenager of verbally and physically accosting her in Money, Miss., in 1955, has admitted she lied, according to a new book.

Till had allegedly whistled at and groped Carolyn Bryant, a 21-year-old White woman, while at a country store in the small town.

After the encounter, Roy Bryant, Carolyn’s husband, and J.W. Milam tracked young Emmett down, kidnapped him, tortured him, shot him, and then tied his battered body to a cotton gin fan using barbed wire and dumped him in the muddy Tallahatchie River. Later, the two men were acquitted of the murder by an all-White, allmale jury after an hour’s deliberation. Till’s brutal killing and

photos of his open casket at his funeral helped spark the Civil Rights Movement.

During the trial, Carolyn Bryant testified that Emmett, who was 14, had made physical and verbal advances toward her, a sensational claim that increased tensions surrounding the case. She testified that Emmett had grabbed and threatened her inside the store – and that he had used an “unprintable” word when he told her he had been intimate “with White women before.”

But according to a 2007 interview, newly revealed in the book, “The Blood of Emmett Till,” Carolyn Bryant admits that it never happened.

“That part’s not true,” she told writer Timothy Tyson, according to “Vanity Fair,” though she claimed she could not recall what happened the rest of the evening at her husband’s country store, where Emmett stopped by briefly on Aug. 24, 1955, to buy two cents worth of gum.

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Super Bowl committee honors Gerald Irons

ties, one of which included the Educator Event. This event took place at the Houston Museum of Natural Science.

One of the people honored was 10 year NFL veteran and University of Maryland Eastern Shore Athletic Hall of Famer, Gerald Irons. Shell recognized him at the event for his dedication to Houston community education. He also has served on the CISD (Conroe Independent School District) board for 19 years, and also was a past President. He is cur-

By Byler Henry

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, February 22, 2017, for Proposal ID T4458. The improvement consists of replacing sidewalk on Commodore Dr. in Broward County. This is a Business Development Initiative (BDI) project, and Certification of Qualification is not required. Budget Estimate $275,512.00.

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.

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PUBLICATION OF BID SOLICITATIONS Broward County Board of County Commissioners is soliciting bids for a variety of goods and services, construction and architectural/engineering services. Interested bidders are requested to view and download the notifications of bid documents via the Broward County Purchasing website at: www.broward.org/purchasing.

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rently the Senior Vice President of Business Development with Conine & Associates, Commercial Real Estate Advisors.

On behalf of The Woodlands Development Company, he represents commercial real estate.

He has three sons all of whom have graduated from Conroe ISD high schools. All five members of the Irons family were honored by the Woodland residents as “Original Hometown Heroes” at the Woodlands 25th year celebration.

Irons has played for 10 seasons in the NFL as a linebacker, and all of his kids has followed in his footsteps playing foot-

FEBRUARY 2 - FEBRUARY 8, 2107 • PAGE 11 ball. His youngest son played defensive end/linebacker for the Oakland Raiders and attended Notre Dame, while his oldest son Gerald Jr. played for the Nebraska Cornhuskers and his middle son Jarrett played for the Michigan Wolverines.

Gerald Irons has been listed among the 100 greatest Cleveland Browns of all time. Irons was also inducted into the Maryland State Hall of Fame in 1984.

Irons earned his Bachelor of Science Degree in Business Administration from Maryland State College. HE then earned his master’s degree in Business

Administration from the University of Chicago. When he retired from football, he was selected by the Osaka Japan Jaycees to represent the U.S. at its worldwide “Ten Outstanding Young Persons Conference.” This is held for 10 days in Osaka. While he was there, he met with the Crown Prince, Crown Princess, the Prime Minister, and the Mayor of Osaka who presented him a gold key to the city.

Mr. Irons has done a lot for the Houston community and he was one of the few honored.

Congratulations to him and the other honorees.

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PAGE 12 • FEBRUARY 2 - FEBRUARY 8, 2017

Children of incarcerated parents need mentors

By Ana M. Cedeno President and CEO Big Brothers Big Sisters of Broward County During this National Mentoring Month I celebrate the 1,117 boys and girls in the Big Brothers Big Sisters of Broward County program who have been matched with mentors this past year.

These mentoring relationships result in powerful positive change that will define these children as they grow into successful adults.

In spite this success, however, my heart still breaks for those kids facing adversity who may never have the opportunity to experience a mentoring relationship. I’m particularly concerned for one group of kids – children of incarcerated parents – who are increasingly overlooked as state and federal funding shifts to other priorities or dries up altogether.

Close to 2.7 million children in the United States – including nearly 200,000 children in Florida – have parents who are in jail or prison. According to national statistics, half of these kids are under 10-years-old. Their lives are shattered when their parents are arrested, and they fall into a rabbit hole of worst case circumstances.

They first live through the circumstances surrounding the parent’s arrest – unhappy and miserable at best and horrific and frightening at worst – often fraught with substance abuse and violence. Then they experience the total disruption of their family when the parent is taken to jail, often living through financial difficulty, social stigma and shame. These innocents in many cases end up in foster care, separated from their siblings, further upending the only life they’ve ever known. And, because incarcerated parents often have their parental rights terminated, these kids typically spend their entire childhood in a foster care setting.

All these elements converge to create a plethora of negative results. These kids have behavior and academic problems. They often repeat their parents’ behavior by turning to drugs, alcohol and crime at an early age. They’re usually angry and sometimes violent.

And sadly, children of incarcerated parents have a 70 percent likelihood of ending up in jail themselves.

Mentoring offers the best chance of stopping this slide into repeating their parents’ behaviors. It reroutes the path of these children’s lives and sets them on a road to productive adulthood.

In fact, children who participate in mentoring through Big Brothers Big Sisters are positively impacted on multiple levels. In an independent, nationwide study, Little Brothers and Little Sisters were: · 46% less likely to begin using illegal drugs; · 27% less likely to begin using alcohol; · 52% less likely to skip school; · 37% less likely to skip a class; · More confident of their performance in schoolwork; · One-third less likely to hit someone; and · Getting along better with their families.

Because 31 percent of the children in the Broward’s Big Brothers Big Sisters program – about 100 kids – have parents who are incarcerated, we offer the Mentoring Children of Promise (MCOP) program specifically to address their issues.

Unfortunately, although the need is great and the impact impressive, funding for the program continues to decrease. To support one youth for one year in the MCOP program, the cost is an average of $1,500. Comparable care for one youth in the child welfare system ranges $14,000 to $35,000 per year.

We encourage the community to reach out to legislators to let them know we care about these children, and funds should be made available to support them. We have a responsibility to give these kids a second chance at a happy childhood.

Mattress Drive supports Haitian Refugees in Tijuana

By Edward Henderson (San Diego Voice and Viewpoint/ NNPA Member)

Group from San Diego supports Haitian refugees stranded in Tijuana.

On January 17, San Diego residents Terry Sivers and Prince Graham made a trip down to the Mexican border with a truck full of 20 mattresses to donate to a shelter housing between 300 and 500 Haitian refugees. The mattresses were collected in a drive that they promoted on Facebook. After being turned away at an initial border crossing, Sivers and Graham were starting to doubt if

they’d make it across with the much-needed mattresses. However, in a turn of events that Sivers described as “the ancestors working in their favor,” they were able to get through.

“One of the customs agents said we couldn’t ever do this again, but ‘put the money on the seat and we’ll let you through,’” Sivers recalled.

The trip was one of many for a group of San Diegans, including Adisa Alkebulan and Amelia Del Pilar Prado Hurtado, have made to offer support and aid.

After the devastating earthquake that struck Haiti in 2010, many Haitians fled the country on work visas to go to Brazil.

Over the past few years, the Brazilian economy has recessed, leaving many people stranded. The Haitians started migrating north to try to get to the United States on refugee status, only to be met by closed boarders. An estimated 5,000 refugees have been living in Tijuana ever since.

Sivers said that the dynamic has changed in Tijuana with the influx of Black people in the region.

“The Mexican government has helped some during this time, converting churches into shelters,” said Sivers. “Other independent organizations have been doing their part as well.”

Despite the uncertainty and harsh living conditions that the Haitian refugees have endured, Sivers noted that their spirits remain strong.

“They’ve picked up three languages on the way to [Tijuana]; English, Portuguese and Spanish,” said Sivers. “It’s not like they’re defeated. It harkens to the spirit of Haitians being the first independent African nation in the west.”

Looking forward, Sivers plans to document the personal stories of some of the refugees in an effort to inspire more people to support them and also to educate people about what’s going on at the border. He’s also looking for someone who speaks Creole and has a passport to help translate.

“It’s important for us to embody Pan Africanism and link Black people here in the U.S. to people across the diaspora,” said Sivers. “Letting people know that there are Black people in the U.S. who support them and reconnecting us as a people is important.”

If you’re interested in donating clothing to the refugees or know someone who speaks Creole or French to help with translation, email Sivers at sivers1979@gmail.com.

We can always overcome, but never forget (Cont'd from FP) I do understand that our history is just not limited to the advent of slavery to these United States of America. I’m well aware of the exquisite regality of our noble prowess from the lineage of ancestral Kings and Queens to the fertile treasures of our distant Home Land. The intellectual knowledge of the scholars who taught at the University of Timbuktu rivaled and stood head and shoulders above Aristotle, Plato and Socrates and yes this DNA of brilliancy is found in our cerebral cortex.

Now you tell me that our students can’t pass standardize testing! Hell, we created testing.

I marvel at the way Jewish children attend their Jewish schools, wearing their Jewish uniforms and learning their Jewish History EVERYDAY that they attend school. I believe that their history is at the forefront of their education and the fact that they are reminded of their painful past has been the fuel that is propelling them to remain ahead of the rest of us.

“Never forget is their moto!”

While we squirm, bow and shuffle and turn our noses up at the mention of Slavery, our children are sliding head first into the pool of “mixed up identity”. They don’t know who the heck they are, let alone whose they are.

If we don’t know where we come from and what we have been through, we are more than likely to go there again, figuratively and literally.

Sure, there are those that say, “Slavery was in the past and teaching them about that is not going to make them rich; it’s only going to confuse them.” “That was then and this is now.”

“Why do we have to stay in the past? People are not like that now.” My response to that is, “Go into our schools and look into the faces of our children and ask them to tell you where we come from.” Stand on the corner and watch our children as they enter into the gates of our educational system. I don’t want to paint our children or educational system with a broad brush, but our children who do not know their history are LOST like ships without rudders, gliding aimlessly in the sea of no return.

Like that old proverbial tree, unable to stand without roots!

“Oh, how could we ever sing God’s song in this wasteland? If I ever forget you, Jerusalem, let my fingers wither and fall off like leaves. Let my tongue swell and turn black if I fail to remember you; if I fail, Oh dear Jerusalem, to honor you as my greatest.

Psalm 137:4-6 The Message (MSG) Your will to battle for achievement came from knowing where you did not want to be; the insurmountable oppressions and courage from which your heritage sprang; I would like to believe that because you were taught of this driving force in the kidnapped African you were bound to never ever be less.

Always strive to overcome but never forget where you come from and while achieving, educate others to our greatness because of it.

Dare we dream!

(Cont'd from FP) As a student of Black literature in Europe (France) and long before I came to America for the first time, W. E DuBois appealed to me. He lived and wrote at a time when Black people in America could not fully exercise their rights.

Consequently, African Americans were still suffering from the economic and social legacy of slavery. His analysis of their dream was deeply embedded in the concept of “Soul” that was the affirmation of Black people’s spiritual and racial identity. It was also the expression of their rich cultural heritage that had been the object of obliteration during their years of bondage.

The Souls of Black Folk was published in 1903 when many Black people had not acquired material wealth. What struck me is that DuBois was defining the African American dream as being spiritual more than material. He expressed his desire that they should have a loftier dream, not one mimicking the dream of the white majority. He warned them not to be lured by Mammon, the God of riches: “What if the Negro people be wooed from a strife for righteousness, from a love of knowing, to regard dollars as the be-all and end-all of life? What if to the Mammonism(the greedy pursuit of riches) of America be added the rising mammonism of its halfwakened Black millions?”

I was wondering whether in the 21st century, the African American dream he described has changed or if it has remained the same. I have admired W.E. DuBois’ legacy of scholarship and struggle and the depth of his scholarly works, but is his analysis still relevant today?

Decades later, I find myself living in South Florida wondering whether the African American dream has evolved.

My perception of Black people’s lives in America altered dramatically since I changed my residency. Indeed, DuBois is right to acknowledge the fact that most Black people in America have a long legacy of spirituality and that Black religious institutions are the conduit enabling their congregations to articulate their dream. But is this the only criteria by which their progress in America should be measured?

A segment of the Black population in America is still plagued with issues such as police brutality, Black-on-Black crime, low incomes, disenfranchisement and marginalization. Yet, others have experienced substantial progress and economic empowerment in the decades leading up to the 21st century.

A study from business historian Robert E. Weems from Wichita State University entitled Resilient, Receptive and Relevant: The African American Consumer (New York: The Nielson Company, 2013) has revealed that in 2013, the African American consumer market went beyond the trillion dollar figure for the first time in history. This economic reality is a far cry from one hundred years ago when social, economic and political reasons such as Jim Crow laws and racial segregation prevented Black people from achieving their economic success.

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FEBRUARY 2 - FEBRUARY 8, 2017 • PAGE 13

Remembering Coretta Scott King : Among those who moved us forward

By Barbara Reynolds (TriceEdneywire.com) Coretta Scott King died on January 30, 2006. Yet her legacy is very much alive as a coalition builder, a strategist and a moral voice that confronted detractors but insisted upon non-violent approaches, such as dialogue, protests and economic boycotts with the end goal of peaceful reconciliation.

In their own analysis 60-era civil rights leaders used to refer to a Zeitgeist, the spirit of the times, which divine dimension that summons leaders exactly when needed most. That certainly describes the timing of human rights activist Coretta Scott King who is experiencing a resurgence as people take a fresh look at those who successfully moved themselves and others forward through the heavy thicket of discrimination such as the leading ladies in the wonderful new film, "Hidden Figures".

of Dr. King are located near Ebenezer Baptist church where Dr. King preached and was funeralized.

Coretta King certainly should come to mind as millions gathered in Washington and in sister cities around the world last week to mount an overwhelming rebuke to President Donald Trump’s anti-human rights campaign and his de-

shifted from civil rights to a more global inclusive human rights agenda after the assassination of her husband, Dr. Martin Luther King Jr in 1968.

A favorite slogan was: “Women, if the soul of the nation is to be saved, I believe that you must become its soul.”

In 1977, President Jimmy Carter appointed her a nonvoting delegate to the 32nd General Assembly of the United Nations, where she advocated for more international focus on the human rights of women.

That same year in Houston, she served as Commissioner on the International Women’s Year Conference where she created quite a stir over her support for gay rights, an unpopular issue at the time.

In her memoir she tells how she opposed the various women’s groups at the Conference who were advocating a constitutional ban on same-sex marriage. “I feel that gay and lesbian people have families

A second look at King’s legacy should focus on but go beyond her well known decades ordeal of successfully lobbying to make King’s birthday a national holiday and building the Dr. Martin Luther King Center for Social Change in Atlanta. Tourists from around the role visit this site, where her crypt and that

nigration of women, minorities, immigrants and the physically challenged. Her name was scrawled on home-made signs scattered throughout.

It is appropriate that we remember her appeal to women and her global human rights efforts. That was the capstone of King’s 38 year mission as she

and their families should have legal protection, whether by marriage or civil union. I believe unequivocally that discrimination because of sexual orientation is wrong and unacceptable in a democracy that protects the human rights of all its citizens.”

In the historic 1963 March

REYNOLDS

on Washington-which catapulted Dr. King to fame—women, however, were not allowed to march with the leaders or give a major address. But without a doubt King, would have played a supportive role in the Women’s march as did her daughter, Bernice King.

King was a spokeswoman for social justice causes, both large and small, writing a syndicated news column on issues from gun violence, to environmental racism, to apartheid in South Africa. She was rarely missing in action. “Sometimes you win, just by showing up,” she said, often referring to her role as a ministry of presence.

King believed that it is citizen action that is crucial to the making of a president. She often said that Ronald Reagan did not warm to the idea of a Dr. King holiday until the movement created a groundswell for it with three million signatures, marches and years of lobbying Congress. He signed it on November 20, 1983.

In recent weeks several Black leaders have been publicly scourged for meeting with President Trump through his transition stage. King, however, would have been knocking on his door, as she did with all the other presidents in her heyday.

And she would not have been there for photo-ops or “selfies.”

As a seasoned coalition building she would have prepared a wellcrafted agenda, which called upon Trump to govern as president of all Americans.

In past years, King’s influence was mammoth in the shaping of the political landscape. She successfully campaigned to elect scores of liberals to political office, worked with Carter in the selection of federal

Coretta Scott King judges and threw her weight against those who stood in the way of voting rights.

Typical of her role is how she confronted and helped block Alabama U.S. Senator Jeff Sessions who in 1985 was vying for a federal judgeship. Sessions, who was called “brilliant,” by Trump is his choice for U.S. Attorney General.

In a recently surfaced 10page letter to the Senate Judiciary Committee, King had called him “lacking in judgement and emperament who would irreparably harm the work the movement had done to seize a slice of democracy for disenfranchised Blacks.”

King opposed Sessions for his 1985 attempt to prosecute three civil rights activists from Marion, Alabama for voter fraud - accusations that were later proved unmerited. Her

opposition to Sessions ran deep because she grew up right outside of Marion which before the movement launched its successful voter rights drive were unable to counter terrorizing attacks om their lives and property.

Civil rights activists fear that Sessions will not hold law enforcement officials accountable for the episodic incidents of unarmed black men being murdered, as was done under the Obama administration.

In the battle to stop Sessions and others who seemed primed to push back advances in human rights, Coretta would not have panicked. In her memoir, she said, “Struggle is a never-ending process and freedom is never really won.

You earn it and win it in every generation.”

And so it goes.

PAGE 14 • FEBRUARY 2 - FEBRUARY 8, 2017

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