The Westside Gazette

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PERMIT NO. 1179

Meeting President The Unending Paradox: Obama In The ‘Glades Why Are HIV Rates Reaffirms Faith In God Higher In Black MSM?

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Freddie Gray, Baltimore And More PAGE 8

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Friends remember Freddie Carlos Gray, My God who never 25, as ‘the life of the neighborhood’ sleeps nor slumbers at the time of his death, not 27 as initially reported, according to friends), died on April 19, a week after an arrest by Baltimore Police near his home in West Baltimore left Gray with a broken neck and in critical condition. Gray is remembered by friends who grew up with him in the Gilmore Homes housing project as someone who was always laughing, brightening the day of those around him.

“He was a good child, a loving child,” said Stewart, who says he has known Gray for over 20 years. “He was the type of person, say you were coming out of your house and you’d had a bad day. You’d see him, he would light your day up because he was always laughing, smiling, playing, trying to make everybody feel up.”

“If you knew Freddie, there was never no downside,” said David Reid, who says he has known Gray for almost 26 years (according to Stewart, Gray would have been 26 in August).

“He was a laugh, joke type of person. I mean if he’s not rapping a song, he’s dancing to it.

If he’s not telling a joke, he’s taking a joke. If he’s not throwing a play punch, he’s catching a play punch. It was all love.”

Davon Johnson also grew up with Gray, and says the two played Pop Warner Football together as kids.

“Every time you saw him, the man always had a smile on his face,” said Johnson. “He wouldn’t hurt a fly. And that just kills me to see how the police just did that man like that. He didn’t deserve that, because there’s some cruddy guys in the world, but Freddie wasn’t one of them. He was loved by everybody.”

At a moment when #BlackLivesMatter has become something of a national refrain, Gray’s friends expressed pain at the callous fact that the media had not even managed to learn and report basic facts about Gray (like his age) accurately, ostensibly relying on official accounts from the same police force that reportedly presided over Gray’s death and apparently did not care enough to get his age right either.

Police violence coverage takes mental toll

Harris but allowed to vacation in the Bahamas after the court hearing, to Officer Dante Servin in Chicago, found not guilty for Rekia Boyd’s murder because the prosecutor deliberately filed lesser, inappropriate charges.

“The repetitive nature of this, the fact that this is chronic…. Chronic experiences of racial discrimination, and I’d include vicarious discrimination, can influence mental and physical health outcomes,” says Amani Nuru-Jeter, associate professor of public health at University of California-Berkeley and researcher on racial health disparities. “I’m not saying it’s the same as post-traumatic stress disorder, but we do see some similarities in how people cognitively respond.”

From Left, Troy Kernes, Davon Johnson, William Stewart, Adrian Muldrow (vice president, Baltimore City NAACP), and David Reid. Johnson, Stewart, and Reid grew up with Freddie Gray in West Baltimore’s Gilmore Homes and remember Gray as “the life of the neighborhood.”

(AFRO/photo by Roberto Alejandro)

By Roberto Alejandro From the Afro-American Newspaper “He was the life of the neighborhood,” said William Stewart outside the Baltimore Police headquarters at a protest over

the in-custody death of his lifelong friend Freddie Carlos Gray that was drawing to a close on April 20.

Freddie Carlos Gray, whose age has been misreported in media accounts (Gray was 25

By Jazelle Hunt, NNPA Washington Correspondent WASHINGTON, D.C. (NNPA) – Police have killed at least 369 people in the first four months of 2015, with 103 Black Americans – 28 percent – making up a disproportionate number of the victims, according to Ferguson protester project, Mapping the Police.

But a growing number of medical experts say the damage inflicted extends far beyond the number of actual victims.

Unarmed Black male victims are currently en vogue in the media, with images of the victims’ last moments on loop hour after hour. And each incident adds a fresh layer of offense – from Deputy Robert Bates in Tulsa, Okla., who was charged with the manslaughter of Eric

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And He got up and rebuked the wind and said to the sea, “Hush, be still.” And the wind died down and it became perfectly calm.

Mark 4:39 (NASB)

By Bobby R. Henry, Sr. What has been the most difficult time in your life? Was it the death of a loved one? Was it the possibility of losing your home?

Was it being stranded on the side of the road in a blizzard or is it just facing everyday concerns that have decimated your will to want to live?

Whatever it was or is, God did not leave and will not leave you unattended by His will...

It’s amazing how God takes us through everything that we come to. God is a forgiving and loving God; He would never leave nor forsake us. No matter the different challenges that we are confronted with, no matter what situation, no matter the circumstances; it does not matter, God is still God. The bucket list that President Obama spoke about or the ones that we create-God does not have one; everything is His and His concern.

What is it that has confronted and confounded you and no matter how hard you tried to figure it out you couldn’t come through it?

What about the times you were faced with some serious decisions and there was no way that you yourself could’ve figured a way out?

When you have a chance, watch the face of a child who gets a new toy and without instructions from their parents the child does all they can to understand how to operate the toy.

(Cont'd on Page 3)

Supporting our own and circulating the Black dollar

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Teachers with subconscious bias punish Blacks more severely

Walter Umrani patronizing Ray Brown, Jr. Cleaners in New Orleans.

(Courtesy of The Final Call)

By Jazelle Hunt, NNPA Washington Correspondent

By Rhodesia Muhammad From The Final Call

WASHINGTON, D.C. (NNPA) – When teachers harbor subconscious racial bias, they are far more likely to discipline white students less severely than African Americans, according to a new study As early as kindergarten, Black girls are being suspended at six times the rate of white girls, and more than all boys except fellow African Americans. Black boys are being suspended at three times the rate of white boys. According to 2010 figures from the Department’s Civil Rights Data Collection, 44 percent of those suspended more than once that year, and 36 percent of those expelled, were Black – despite being less than 20 percent of the student population.

“Stereotypes serve as sort of a glue that sticks separate en-

counters together in our mind and lead us to then respond more negatively,” says Jason Okonofua, doctoral student at Stanford University and co-author of the study, “Two Strikes: Race and the Disciplining of Young Students.”

“In the study we have…the stereotype that the student is a ‘troublemaker’ leads the teacher to see two separate instances of misbehavior as constituting a pattern. Therefore following the second misbehavior there’s a sharp escalation in how severely the teacher wants to discipline a Black child.”

This is known as the “Black escalation effect.” As the number of behavioral issues increases, it is perceived as more of a threat to the classroom if the doer is Black. Black escalation leads teachers to discipline Black students faster and more harshly than their white

Pleading Our Own Cause

OKONOFUA counterparts, even when the students have the same number

and types of offenses.

In the study, which appears in the April issue of Psychological Science, 53 teachers, all women, mostly white, were given a school record for a hypothetical student. Each record detailed two minor misbehaviors (classroom disruption and insubordination) – some for a hypothetical child named Darnell or Deshawn, others for a hypothetical child named Jake or Greg.

On average, teachers responded the same way to Darnell, Deshawn, Greg, and Jake on their first misbehaviors. But on the second offense, they were more likely to punish the boys they perceived as Black, more likely to issue harsher punishments to them, and more likely to label them “troublemakers.”

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NEW ORLEANS, LA – On a recent Saturday, organizers and over a dozen participants met at the Black-owned Half Shell Restaurant at 9 a.m. for a bus tour to explore Black businesses in the city.

The inspiration for the Black Business Bus Tour originated with Brother Asad El-Malik and Brother Reuben De Tiege.

In an effort to continue the spirit of the Kwanzaa principle of Ujamaa (cooperative economics), those men in conjunction with the Man Up March committee and Brothers for Better Business wanted to figure out a way to increase circulation of the Black dollar.

“The idea behind the tour came from the Montgomery Bus Boycott,” said Asad El-Malik. “I was thinking about how much

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effort it took for our people to pull off the boycott. Then I began to think how would a boycott look and work today?

What we came up with was the opposite of a boycott. Instead of avoiding a business, we decided to support Black businesses.

What we hoped to accomplish was to raise awareness of different Black-owned businesses, support those businesses, and show the importance of investing into self. I think the tour was great. We introduced a bunch of people to Blackowned businesses in this city; Black businesses made a few more dollars, and gained potential customers.”

The bus traveled to several Black business corridors, stopping at each to allow riders to sample and purchase goods and services.

(Read full story on www.thewestsidegazette.com) MEMBER: National Newspaper Publishers Association ( NNPA), and Southeastern African-American Publishers Association (SAAPA) Florida Association of Black Owned Media (FABOM)

Page 2 • www.thewestsidegazette.com • April 30 - May 6, 2015 Derrell Bradford, Executive Director, The New York Campaign for Achievement Now (NYCAN) When I graduated from the University of Pennsylvania in the mid 90’s, I moved to New York City. And I did what most young folks did them: found the cheapest apartment I could afford in the nicest neighborhood possible. That place was a first-floor front studio near Central Park. The block was lovely, but I lived in the worst building on it. Sanitation workers used to wake me up when they threw the cans against my outside windows. In the winter, I heated the place with my open stove.

And if anything broke, it took forever to get it fixed.

I paid about three-fourths of what I made to live in that apartment, and my landlord knew that. And because of this, our relationship was uneasy. I only pushed so hard to get things fixed because I couldn’t afford to move. She only did enough to make it barely livable. And we both knew there were hundreds of kids, just like me, ready to take my spot if I decided to head back home. It was all win for her and, because

BRADFORD I could not move, all lose me.

My relationship with my old landlord is the same relationship most parents and children of color, particularly in cities, have with their neighborhood schools and school districts. The quality of instruction is poor and, according to the Office of Civil Rights, students are far more likely to be taught by a teacher who is out of subject specialization than elsewhere. There are 90 schools in New York City, for instance, where not one minority child passed the recent round of state tests. These kids and families are stuck with their schools just like my old landlord

Broward County's Oldest and Largest African American Owned and Operated Newspaper and I were; the school only giving what it must, and the family desperate to get more for their child’s education.

Eventually I got lucky, got a new job, and moved to a better apartment. For most folks, however, moving to a better “building,” or a school or school district in this case, just isn’t an option.

If you have money or influence in America, you don’t even blink when your local school doesn’t deliver. You know you can “move” to a private school or another school district, and the local school does too. So if that power is good enough for the wealthiest and most influential, why shouldn’t we give low income families in southwest Baltimore where I’m from, or Newark, or New York the same options?

As a child I got a scholarship to an excellent school and that changed my life, forever, and there is no day I don’t wake up and know how blessed I am because of it. “Parent Choice” in education is the one thing that can help families, just like mine, and help them today. Take a lesson from my old landlord.

Your zip code and your income might dictate where you live… but they shouldn’t determine your child’s future.

Mitch Ceasar and the Broward Democratic Party hosted forum on race and law enforcement

SATZ CEASAR

By Maria Camila Montañes FMU Intern A forum designed to address racial and law enforcement issues were offered to the community of Broward by Mitch Ceasar as the leader of the Democratic Party and Sheriff Scott Israel to bring up current racial issues the nation has been facing.

State Attorney of Broward County, Mike Satz and Chief Assistant Public Defender Gordon H. Weekes were among the panelists. These two powerful folks created tension on the to-

pic. However, they both agreed on the “outrageous actions” that some police officers have taken towards Black young men as Mr. Satz said.

Issues were addressed by panelists who specialized in the topic and the tension between the two was oblivious.

Sheriff Israel, as the middle point for these two subjects, assured the necessity to be “accountable for those bad apples”, referring to any person within the police department who acts with racism and breaks the law.

Bringing this issue up, Gordon Weekes showed concern about the lack of attention states are having when police officers act on racial profile towards young Black men. Presenting a case in Fort Lauderdale in which Police officers accepted making racist comments, Gordon concluded that these police officers were charged but the state dropped those chargers.

Speaking of this particular concern, Gordon spoke to the Westside Gazette and assured that: “we need to have a state attorney that is progressive, that recognizes that there are some bad apples that need to be addressed and that need to be addressed firmly so it restores confidence in the community.

That we purge the criminal justice system of any racism from police officers” As for Mr. Satz, he suggested communication as the key and starting point to restore these situations. “It’s so important for young people to learn what’s going on in their community.

Communication is the key. Because he [Mr. Weekes] can say something and I can say something. What he was saying was being divisive. It wasn’t bringing the community together.”

Satz’s response came after he considered it not a crime if police officers make racial comments. Based on this statement, the tension began in the room, changing the climate of the debate.

According to some assistants from the Sheriff’s office, about 200 people attended the event, with the majority of them being

WEEKS seniors who are members of the Broward Democratic Party.

Some of the young people who attended the forum were part of the Dreamer Defenders organization. Dreamer Defenders are accordingly a self-described “organization directed

by Black and Brown youth, who confront systematic inequality.”

Jasmene Rodgers, a young lady from Miami Gardens, stated, “I believe this forum was a good first start, but I also feel like it was a very superficial conversation about police relations in the community.” Her comments referred to the distrust the community has developed towards police and law enforcement and the lack of action from the law to punish those bad apples.

“Trust comes over time.

Trust starts with community forums like this. So people get to learn more,” Ceasar expressed in his willingness to work hard. He encouraged everyone to start communicating and having these conversations among everyone whether you are Republican or Democrat.

“To make this process work we have to invite and be inclusive not exclusive and to do that, we have to take the step and perhaps including people that we may not like or want but we must do that.”

Reactions among the public were positive as they engaged in the conversation. Some asked the panelists about the idea of imposing body cameras. Most of the panelists agreed on that it would protect the community as well as police officers.

As 2016 presidential elections come closer and closer, Americans have been debating and talking about these current issues that are affecting minorities. It is then so crucial to start communicating and start taking actions to make big changes. It is 2015, and America cannot afford more racism and discrimination. It is time for small changes that will lead to big transformations in our diverse society.

William J. Wilson, Jr., educator, community leader, succumbs

WILSON William J. (Red) Wilson, Jr., 86, of Fort Lauderdale, Fla., departed this life on Thursday, April 23, 2015. A distinguished noted educator, community leader and retiree of the Broward Public School District, where he served as Principal, Assistant Principal, and Guidance Counselor, and was elected as one of eight special assistants to the principals appointed to implement the racial integration of predominately white schools in Broward County.

He was born in Jacksonville, Fla. on March 15, 1919 and is a native of St. Augustine, Fla. He is the eldest of four children born to Mr. Williams J. Wilson, Sr., and Mrs. Alice S. Wilson.

He was preceded in death by his parents, brothers, James and Charles Wilson, grandmother, Mrs. Anna Wilson, son; William J. Wilson, III and

grandson, Michael Joseph Wilson. He is survived by his wife of 57 years, Dr. Barbara Houston Wilson; daughter; Dr. Stefanie D. Wilson; sister; Mrs. LottieAnn Moss and a host of nieces, nephews and friends. A graduate of Excelsior High School in 1946 as Salutatorian, he matriculated to Florida A&M College, presently Florida A&M University, where he earned a Bachelor’s of Science Degree (1950) in Mathematics and Physics. He earned a Master’s of Education Degree in Guidance and Counseling from Florida A&M University in 1961.

He served as a member of the City of Fort Lauderdale Lauderdale’s Elks Lodge #652, a member of Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Inc., (Beta Nu Chapter), The Red Cross and Marine Board, Men of Destiny Community Outreach, Inc., and was an active member of Saint Anthony Catholic Church, Fort Lauderdale, Fla. A viewing will be held on Friday, May 1, 2015 from 5 to 8 p.m., at the T.M. Ralph Chapel, 7001 N.S. Fourth St., Plantation, Fla. The Funeral Mass will be celebrated Saturday, May 3 at 12:30 p.m., at Saint Anthony Catholic Church, 901 N.E. Second St., Fort Lauderdale, Fla. 33301.

The repast will follow. In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to the March of Dimes of Broward County in memory of Michael Joseph Wilson.

Arrangements by T.M. Ralph Plantation Funeral Home, 7001 N.W. Fourth St., Plantation, Fla.

April 30 - May 6, 2015 • www.thewestsidegazette.com • Page 3

Broward County's Oldest and Largest African American Owned and Operated Newspaper

Meeting President Obama in the ‘Glades reaffirms faith in God

By Audrey Peterman When the call came from my friend at Everglades National Park informing me that Frank and I were invited to be part of a small group in the park for President Obama’s visit the following day, I felt immediately ashamed. Because I had been wondering, “How is it possible that with all the vital information we have to share, we don’t have a speaking engagement for Earth Day? Do people not even care to know how we can avoid the environmental disasters that are right around the corner?”

I felt ashamed that I had not trusted God enough, because

now I could see clearly that if we had a speaking engagement we’d most likely be out of town, or at the very least we would not have been able to break our commitment and would have missed meeting the President.

The park was closed for the President’s visit, and only about 100 people were invited. The President spent a good deal of time on the Anhinga Trail, my favorite of all the trails in more than 170 units of the National Park System that we have visited from Alaska to Florida.

While we waited for him near the administration buildings at the entrance to the park, I imagined how much fun he was having on the trail. I imagined

Tired of Black men getting shot down, killed in cold blood

Top left, Walter Scott; An unidentified man straightens memorials at the scene where Walter Scott was killed by a North Charleston police officer after a traffic stop in North Charleston, S.C., April 10. The officer, Michael Thomas Slager, has been fired and charged with murder.

(Photo: AP/Wide World photos)

By Brian E. Muhammad Special to the NNPA from The Final Call COLUMBIA, S.C. (FinalCall.com) – What began as a minor traffic stop apparently for a malfunctioning tail light ended with a homicide.

Another Black man, another white cop and another video of a police officer killing an unarmed person.

The amateur recording showed Michael Slager, 33, a North Charleston, S.C., police officer calmly squeezing the trigger of his gun eight times— firing at the back of 50-yearold Walter Scott, a Black la-borer, forklift operator and father of four.

“We’re tired of Black men getting shot down and killed in cold blood,” said DeAndre Muhammad, the Charleston representative of the Nation of Islam.

With the killing of Walter Scott, Trayvon Martin, Tanisha Anderson, Michael Brown, Tamir Rice, Eric Garner and others—men and women—shot down by police, we must recognize we are not in a post racial America, said Student Minister Muhammad. “This is an outright war and attack on Black people in general and Black males in particular.”

The Charleston County Coroner’s Office declared Mr. Scott died from multiple gunshot wounds to the back, and ruled his death a homicide. Coroner Rae Wooten said an autopsy was performed one day

him walking on the concrete trail beside the flowing waters, watching the Anhingas drying their wings on the pond apple trees, seeing the alligators swimming languidly or laying in the saw grass among the exotic wading birds. I pictured how his blood pressure would plunge several points just by being in that setting looking out at the vast expanse of un-disturbed nature.

When the Presidential music started up and the President came from around the building, his long stride taking him across the grass and his youthful step bounding up to the podium, it was clear that he felt totally relaxed. What a great getaway from the incredible pressures of the most demanding job on earth. The crowd erupted in cheers as the President began to speak.

He spoke about his pleasure at being in the ‘Glades, being on the trail and meeting a group of fourth graders on the trail.

“They were very excited,” he said. “Not to see me, to see the alligators!” he quipped.

He talked about the threats of climate change and said that climate change is real, it is here and now. He mentioned the health impacts that doctors are already seeing, and the threat to our national security form increasing disruption sue to weather. He said it is urgent for us to address climate change and make preparations.

‘When there’s a storm coming you don’t stick your head in the sand, you prepare.”

He said that a far larger proportion of our energy comes from clean sources than in 2008, and that we must continue to increase renewable energy.

“When you put on the brakes in your car it doesn’t come to an immediate stop,” he said, illustrating that the process takes time.

The President announced the creation of the Marjory Stoneman Douglas National Landmark which will add the home of the Mother of the Everglades to the National Park System.

He said that national parks are an incredible boost for our economy as every dollar invested by the federal government in the parks provides a $10 return.

“I am not a big investor, but I think those are very good returns,” the President said.

When he stepped down off the podium to greet the people eagerly waiting to meet him, I was beside myself. Miraculously I was in the front row, and I said to the Secret Service agent beside the President, “I’ve got to get a picture with the President and shake his hand.”

“OK, why don’t you give your camera to the young lady behind you and ask her to take your picture?” Duh. When the President approached me, eyes gleaming, teeth sparkling, the most beautiful

President Obama and Peterman. strong gentle presence, I was his dad would have given anything to meet a Black President. agape.

“Hello,” he said, “How are When the meeting broke up we you?” resolved that we’d never wash “Wonderful, Mr. President,” our hands again that had “Thank you for creating all the touched the President. Bur of new monuments and Pullman course that couldn’t last very in particular.” long….

His smile widened and he The lesson I’ve taken to heart continued to Frank who was is, continue to do your best and standing next to me. “Hello, whatever happens, know that sir,” the President said respectGod has so much better in store fully.

Frank says he can’t remem- for you that you can dream of. ber what he said because he All I can say is, “Thank you, was so emotional, thinking how God!”

after the shooting, according to media reports.

Footage from Mr. Slager’s vehicle dashcam released by the South Carolina Law Enforcement Division (SLED)—the state agency that investigates police involved shootings— showed Mr. Scott exiting his car and running.

Mr. Scott was possibly concerned about an outstanding warrant related to back child support payments.

However, an outraged community says being shot in the back as seen on the video is never justified.

The video from the camera phone recorded by Feidin Santana placed a spotlight on continued concern about police officers brutalizing, terrorizing and killing Black, Brown and poor people.

Using cell phone videos and swift online distribution has birthed a new tool for accountability independent of the criminal justice system, said social justice advocates.

“This technology in the hands of regular people is what alerts the citizenry of what’s going on,” said Thandisizwe Chimurenga, the Los Angeles-based author of No Doubt: The Murder(s) of Oscar Grant.

“It is a great tool in the hands of regular people to put a check on police officers’ actions and hold them accountable, but more is needed from a policy level,” she said.

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My God who never sleeps nor slumbers (Cont'd from FP) No matter what challenges or the manner of which the toy is to function, the encounters that came with trying to understand this object of affection was what garnered all of the child’s attention.

To the child it was not their plan to understand how the toy functions, instead it was the experience of enjoying the toy; the other stuff was left up to something that the child had no control of nor did it matter.

That the child did not become despondent with not having any control over the state of affairs, in its place the child was totally elated by means of the fact that the toy was something which in its space brought joy into the life of the child.

So it is with difficult times; when they have passed us we can look back and see the joy that was in it once we realize the reasons for it.

God has kept us here, we could’ve gone the other way but we’re still here. We still can face another day no matter how grievous it may be, no matter how dark our displacement is, no matter what, God never sleeps nor slumbers.

“Dear Lord whatever incapacitations that befell us and no matter how forceful the trying bellows may be, our hope, comfort and assurance is in You and You alone. We accept that You are still God and our hope rests in You. Amen.”

God is already awake and He is listening right now through our prayers and supplications as He reminds us not to forget that He is the God who can control ALL THINGS! GOD IS THE EVERREADY POWER THAT NEVER LOSES CONNECTION WHEN WE’RE GOING THROUGH

“Everyone is welcomed to Join Us, Fort Lauderdale Police Department, in our Community Police Forum.

We encourage you to sign up and be our partner as we Build Our Community.

Members of our community do not need to be affiliated with Calvary Chapel to attend the forum.”

Page 4 • www.thewestsidegazette.com • April 30 - May 6, 2015

Broward County's Oldest and Largest African American Owned and Operated Newspaper

The unending paradox: Why are HIV rates higher in Black MSM? that they were less adherent to HIV treatment. But the question remained: why?

Here are the primary areas studied as likely contributing to the high rates of HIV infection in this community.

Social Networks Researchers have concluded that the high prevalence of HIV in Black communities, coupled with high rates of undiagnosed HIV and STDs, might contriHomophobia remains high in many African-American communities, which prevents social networks from increasing in size and thereby reducing their community viral load.

By Stephen Karpiak, Ph.D. From AIDS Community Research Initiative of America In 2006, Greg Millett and colleagues studied HIV in African American men who have sex with men (MSM) to try to understand why they have the highest rates of infection in the U.S. His study reported that, compared with white MSM, African American MSM had fewer sexual partners, and found no differences in the rates of reported unprotected sex. They found no evidence to support theories ranging from genetic risk factors to increased substance use to higher incarceration rates. The men had similar histories regarding their use of sex workers, and similar HIV testing frequency.

In 2014, Maulsby and Millett published a follow-up review article which included data from new studies done after the initial 2006 study. The report found that African American MSM had higher rates of sexually transmitted diseases (STDs) and higher rates of undiagnosed HIV than their white counterparts. There was also evidence that they were less likely to be connected to care after testing HIV positive, and

bute to increased HIV transmission. This is supported by data showing that Black MSM are more likely to have Black partners, resulting in increased HIV risk (Tieu, 2010).

But some studies have found that choosing sexual partners based on race does not increase HIV risk in young Black MSM. This conflict might be explained by the findings of other studies showing that younger Black MSM engaging in unprotected

sex with older MSM are at higher risk for HIV (Oster, 2011). The greater risk associated with these age choices has often been reported. But a lack of consistent definitions of “older” and “younger” makes the results inconclusive, and more research is needed.

Acceptance of same-sex behavior, by social consensus or by law (marriage, anti-discrimination ordinances, etc.), is correlated with decreases in STD

and HIV rates (Francis, 2010).

As acceptance increases, more men become part of sexual social networks. This decreases the chance of partnering being limited to small networks, where the risk of HIV is higher.

Put simply, the community viral load of a sexual network is decreased as it grows larger, and societal acceptance of homosexuality enables a sexual network’s size to increase. But homophobia remains high in

Communities searching for solutions to gun violence

By Nayaba Arinde From New York Amsterdam News Bloody sidewalks and yellow crime scene tape must not be the most prominent images of summer 2015. Police and ambulance sirens cannot be the soundtrack. Bullet markers and wailing residents are already the go-to scene for primetime news.

Earlier this month, with the last strains of a harsh winter replaced by rising temperatures, gunshots rang out in three New York boroughs: Brooklyn, the Bronx and Manhattan.

The Police Department classifies the weekend as Thursday midnight to Sunday midnight, and in that 72-hour span from Thursday, April 16 to Sunday, April 19, 21 shootings left three people dead and 23 people wounded.

Friday morning, Dawan Turner, 24, was shot in the head as he sat in a car, in Brooklyn’s hard 75th Precinct. On the same day, in what is described as a “revenge killing,” Dontea Bascom, 16, was shot dead, and his 13-year-old cousin injured, in Bed-Stuy’s Marcy Houses.

With shots to the stomach and head, Steven McKoy, 30, was murdered in East New York Sunday. Saturday saw 10 shootings, with a 16-year-old boy shot in the leg in East New York and three people hit as

bullets flew at the Castle Hill Houses in the Bronx. Sunday, six shootings in the Bronx, Harlem and Brooklyn left several males aged 19 to 40 wounded.

A trauma nurse at a Brooklyn hospital told the AmNews, “I am seeing these shootings every week. It is getting worse.” Saying that she had worked in the operating room on some of the recently publicized cases, she added, “One young man died in my arms. It is bad. These are all children. It is crazy, and it is tragic. It is awful. Kids. It is crazy, and it is every weekend.

If it is not gunshot wounds, it is multiple stab wounds. If you saw the O.R. when we were done, you wouldn’t believe it.

There is just so much blood. It is bad.”

Brooklyn DA Ken Thompson, while noting that violent crime in Brooklyn is down, pulled no punches when he told the AmNews, “As Brooklyn DA, I’m not only determined to go after the violent criminals who are committing these shootings but also those who are flooding our streets with all of these guns.”

Dozens of Brooklynites heeded the call and turned out Tuesday night, April 21, when groups such as the Brooklyn Anti-Violence Coalition, Rediscovering Lost Values and Stand and Deliver held a “Call to Duty”

Chris Foye is surrounded by friends and supporters paying respects to his slain son, Chris Shakim Owens, who was 13. He was struck by a stray bullet in the summer of 2009.

Owens was honored at the corner of 121st Street and Adam Clayton Powell Boulevard in Harlem.

(Courtesy of New York Amsterdam News) rally at the corner of Marcy and Myrtle Avenues at the Marcy Houses development.

Speaking from the Tuesday night rally, activist Umar Johnson said to the AmNews, “This is all about who we are and first being accountable for and to ourselves, then holding responsible those whom we trust to protect and defend our village.

This is not about the haves and the have-nots. Sad to say, soon and very soon I see myself

preaching the obituary of Bedford-Stuyvesant as we knew it—once the most progressive Black village on the East Coast.

Why are the issues that are plaguing this side of Bed-Stuy less important to the Community Board 3 than the Brownstoners south of Gates Avenue?

Major construction, home owners being harassed, children being deprived of a wholesome safe haven—a place to be when all around them is death and destruction.”

many African American communities, which prevents social networks from increasing in size and thereby reducing their community viral load. Such homophobia also prevents MSM from establishing the long-term relationships that can reduce HIV risk.

African American MSM confront a powerful array of discrimination, including race, gender identity, sexual orientation, and HIV status. An assessment of U.S. attitudes toward homosexuality found that African American MSM were twice as likely to state that homosexuality was wrong as were white MSM. But researchers have not found a direct relationship between risk behavior and discrimination (Rhodes, 2011).

Health Care Studies show that Black and white MSM are equally likely to have visited a health care provider in the past year. The CDC reports that MSM were offered HIV tests at the same rate: 61 percent of Blacks, 60 percent of Latinos, and 62 percent of whites.

But Black MSM had lower CD4 counts. Other studies report that African Americans are less likely than whites to adhere to HIV treatment or to stay in care. This is confirmed by CDC data showing that disease progression, infectiousness, and mor=tality are greater in Black MSM with HIV compared with other MSM. These differences in health outcomes are exacerbated by the fact that Black MSM have a greater chance of living in poverty, are less likely to have health insurance, and make fewer clinic visits when they do have health care. These differences may lessen due to the Affordable Care Act. But many states in the South, where HIV infection rates are high, have not expanded Medicaid as the ACA allows and so many continue to show these inequalities.

(Read full story on www.thewestsidegazette.com)

Broward County's Oldest and Largest African American Owned and Operated Newspaper

April 30 - May 6, 2015 • www.thewestsidegazette.com • Page 5

Community Digest

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

Yard Sale

Sell your goods and keep your profits, Saturday, May 2, 2015 from 7 a.m. to 1 p.m., at the Northwest Federated Woman’s Club 2161 N.W. 19th S., Fort Lauderdale, Fla. To reserve your space contact (954) 730-3442 or Email nwwomansclub@bellsouth.net

Event

Mothers and Daughters of B.I.B invite the community to Join us for our annual Mother/ Daughter Tea on Saturday, May, 9, 2015 from 10 a.m. – 12 p.m., at Foster Park, 609 N.W. Sixth Ave., Hallandale, Fla. Refreshments will be served. Wear your sundress for a mid-morning, early afternoon session with Mom.

Luncheon

Woman 2 Woman Ministries is having their “Living The Dream” Spring Luncheon, Saturday, May 2, 2015 at 11 a.m., at the Inverrary Hotel & Resort, 3501 Inverrary Blvd., Lauderhill, Fla. Dr. Diane Lazare of Spirit Led Ministries, special guest speaker. Tickets available on Eventbrite.com

Event

Mount Olivet Seventh-day Adventist Church present "Moms Are Amazing" with special features "2015 Mother of the Year and Spotligh on Moms on Saturday, May 9, 2015 at 4 p.m. at 649 N.W. 15 Way, Fort Lauderdale, Fla. Contact Mira Massey at (954) 629-1150, Leticia Murray at (954) 4962993 or Sarah Shaw at (954) 789-9658 for more information.

Conference

Refreshing Springs Ministries invites the community to attend the “Fresh Winds New Fire” Conference, from Thursday, May 5 to Saturday, May 9, 2015 from 6:45 to 7:30 p.m., at Refreshing Springs Ministries Church of the Living God, 44 S. West 11 Ave., Delray Beach, Fla., this event is opened to the public, registration is available. For cost and additional info contact Minister Kennedy Edwards, Jr., at (561) 7671255.

IT PAYS TO ADVERTISE IN THE WESTSIDE GAZETTE CALL (954) 525-1489

Invitation

Invitation to a service of Remembrance, Thursday, May 7, 2015 from 3 to 4:30 p.m., at Long Key Nature Center in Davie. We are less than two weeks away from our 2015 Memorial Gathering, titles this year “A Service of Memories…” it’s an invitation for a time of remembering our loved ones, sharing about them, and finding healing together. We sent an invitation to all VITAS Families who had losses in Broward for the last six months, or so, and the event is open to community members, those friends, neighbor of ours, who might have lost a loved one, recently.

Please email back or call (954) 777-5284, to RSVP.

Event

“Victory Through Awareness” Relay for Life of Carter Park, Lauderhill, Lauderdale Lakes, North Lauderdale Events, Friday, May 15-16, 2015 at 1450 W. Sunrise Blvd., Fort Lauderdale, Fla. For more info on how you can get involved and/or start a team, contact Pam Beasley-Pittman, event chair at (954) 445-0244 or Alexandra Rousseau, Community Manager for the American Cancer Society, Broward Unit at (954) 564-0880 ext.

7522 or alexandra.rousseau@cancer.com

EDUCATION MATTERS Every Child Deserves a Chance to Succeed.

Luncheon

Women of Purpose First Annual Mother’s Day Luncheon, Sunday, May 10, 2015 from 3 to 6 p.m., at Sistrunk Art Gallery, 1033 N.W. Sixth St., Fort Lauderdale, Fla. For cost and additional info call (954) 2266344 or 1-888-391-9903.

CITY WIDE CLASS OF 1973 60TH BIRTHDAY CELEBRATION

“MADE IN 1955” “AGED TO PERFECTION” FRIDAY, JUNE 26 TO SUNDAY, JUNE 28, 2015

DEERFIELD BEACH EMBASSY SUITES 950 S. OCEAN WAY DEERFIELD BEACH, FL 33441 HOTEL RESERVATIONS LINK: embassysuites.hilton.com/en/ es/groups/personalized/D/ DEEFLES-CCB-20150626/ index.jhtml or call (954) 426-0478

FRIDAY, JUNE 26

MEET & GREET - 7 PM TICKETS - $40

SATURDAY, JUNE 27

“GAYLA” 7 to 11 PM TICKETS - $60 COLORS: PURPLE & SILVER OR GRAY (ATTIRE: SEMI-FORMAL) **PLEASE NOT THAT EVENT TICKETS NOT PURCHASED

BY MAY 30, 2015 WILL BE ACCESSED A $20 INCREASE DUE TO HOTEL FEE DEADLINE ON JUNE 6, 2015** T-SHIRTS S-XL: $10, 2X: $12, 3X-4X: $14, 5X: $18, 6X: $20 SIZES ARE NEEDED ASAP!!!!!

PLEASE CONTACT

NETTIE WILLIAMS (954) 881-3412 OR ALEX BONNER (954) 235-4339

TO ORDER T-SHIRTS & TO PURCHASE TICKETS HOPE TO SEE YOU THERE!!!

Happenings at African-American Research Library and Cultural Center

African-American Research Library and Cultural Center, 2650 Sistrunk Blvd., Fort Lauderale, Fla. Destination Fridays will head south of the border, Friday, May 8, 2015 from 6:30 to 9:30 p.m., at the African American Research Library and Cultural Center, 2650 Sistrunk Blvd., Fort Lauderdale, Fla. You can order your tickets through Eventbrite or pay in cash or by card at the door. This is an after-hours event for ages 21-plus. Upcoming Destination Friday events: Sept. 4 – Hawaii and Nov. 6 the Bahamas. For more info call (954) 357-6210.

Events relating to Haiti Art in AARLCC Gallery, Empire and Kingdom of the Island of Haiti W.I. May 6 thru May 31, 2015 · Wednesday, May 6, 2015 – Opening of Alexandra Barbot’s Art Exhibit and her book signing “Tell me about Haiti” from 5 to 7 p.m. · Wednesday, May 13 and 27 – Ballroom Haitian Compa Dance Workshop by Francois Michel Jacques and Fung, from 5 to 7 p.m. · Wednesday, May 20 – Honoring Dr. Margaret Mitchell Armand, Ph.D. Author “Healing in the Homeland – Haitian vaudou tradition, from 5 to 7 p.m. · Monday, May 25 – “Toussaint Louverture et le combat des aigles” a Movie presentation, from 5 to 7 p.m.

STAYCONNECTED-www.thewestsidegazette.com LIKE US ON FACEBOOK

Westside Gazette Newspaper FOLLOW US ON Instagram @thewestsidegazettenewspaper

Alicia Rooks and I am a new author

Alicia Rooks is a new home-grown author, the name of her book is “MARRIAGE, It’s Not Physical...IT’s SPIRITUAL!!!

(HOLY). Alicia is a member of Hope Outreach Love Center, Inc. where her pastors are Frank A. II & Elect Lady Jacqueline D. Lloyd. She has a book Reveal/Rekindle, Part I seminar (signing) on May 30, 2015 at 5 p.m., at Hope Outreach Love Center, Inc. 3271 W. Broward Blvd. Fort Lauderdale, Fla 33312.

There will be a panel discussion with pastors Frank Elect Lady Jacqueline Lloyd, Keith and Lady Chiquita Butler from Logos Baptist church of Miami, FL, Bro. Lawrence and Evangelist Tiffany Baker (HOLC), and much more.

We ask everyone to bring an open heart/mind, willing spirit, and tissues for this will be a “God” orchestrated occasion. The event is Free!!!

TO HAVE YOUR COMMUNITY EVENTS POSTED CALL (954) 525-1489 OR FAX (954) 525-1861 FOR MORE INFO

The Urban League of Broward County is proud to introduce a new Summer Internship Program. In areas ranging from human resources to strategic planning, and from program development to marketing strategy, this internship provides undergraduate and graduate students with mentored learning opportunities. Join us as active and trusted members of our team as we address the educational, job, housing and health needs of the community. Application: March 15 - April 30, 2015 Selection: Week of May 4, 2015 Program Dates: Monday, June 1 - August 7, 2015 (10 Weeks)

Page 6 • www.thewestsidegazette.com • April 30 - May 6, 2015

Broward County's Oldest and Largest African American Owned and Operated Newspaper

Caught on camera: San Bernardino sheriff’s deputies controversial use of force

By Corey Arvin From the Black Voice News From a deserted field in rural Apple Valley to television and computer screens across the country, a video depicting sev-

eral San Bernardino County Sheriff’s deputies apparently beating a man after he surrendered has fueled more discussion in the growing national debate about officerworn cameras. The incident,

which took place April 9, is now followed by mounting concerns by the Southern California American Civil Liberties Union (ACLU) about practices by the sheriff’s department.

March2Justice Concludes in DC

Study says hiring more minority teachers could be amazing for minority students

Adriana Wong, an attorney and spokeswoman for ACLU’s Inland Empire chapter, said the incident involving San Bernardino County Sheriff’s deputies caught the attention of the ACLU after it was released by media outlets.

Wong said the footage of the deputies hitting the handcuffed man, Francis Pusok, 30, was “disturbing.” The ACLU sub-sequently issued a statement calling for a thorough investigation into the incident. The ACLU has historically pursued cases involving excessive use of force by law enforcement officers, she added.

By Krystle Crossman It is no secret that minority students have a harder time in public school than non-minority

students. This is due to a multitude of factors such as the students having to deal with racism and stereotyping by teachers.

Over 80 percent of public school

By Cyril Josh Barker From the New York Amsterdam News March2Justice arrived at the Capitol building in Washington, D.C. recently. Members of Justice League NYC stood alongside Rep. John Conyers as he reintroduced the End Racial Profiling Act. The act will enforce the constitutional rights to equal protection under the law by changing the policies and procedures

underlying the practice of profiling.

Carmen Perez, director of March2Justice and co-founder of Justice League NYC, said, “We were moved to tears as three people lost their lives to police violence during March2Justice. The End Racial Profiling Act will address the underlying problem of racial bias and the disproportionate impact it has that traumatizes communities of color.”

March2Justice departed Staten Island, N.Y., Monday, April 13, and approximately 100 people traveled 250 miles on foot through five states to arrive at our nation’s capital Tuesday, April 21.

Led by Justice League NYC, the march brought attention to the ongoing national crisis of police brutality, calling on Congress to pass legislation to end racial profiling, stop militarization of law enforcement and invest in our youth and commu-

nities.

Wednesday, marchers brought their message directly to members of Congress and to support Conyers’ efforts to pass the ERPA. Marchers and supporters were joined by the family of Rekia Boyd, who was killed in 2012 in Chicago.

Police officer Dante Servin was found not guilty of involuntary manslaughter in the killing of the 22-year-old.

(Read full story on www.thewestsidegazette.com)

teachers are white and many of them bring stereotypes to the classroom that affects the mi-nority students greatly.

They are pegged as bad kids

Florida Department of Health reminds all residents to enjoy pools safety this summer Learn how to keep your family safe in the water ‘Disturbing’ footage showing use-of-force by deputies also spurs ACLU request for more oversight of San Bernardino County Sheriff’s Department.

(Photo courtesy of Riverside County Sheriff’s Department)

(Photos Courtesy of New York Amsterdam News)

April 30 - May 6, 2015 • www.thewestsidegazette.com • Page 7

Broward County's Oldest and Largest African American Owned and Operated Newspaper

Wong estimates she has watched the video involving San Bernardino deputies arresting Pusok five to ten times since its release.

“What stood out to me is that from the video, it appears the man had surrendered or was being compliant at the time the force started. That’s troubling.

The sheer number of officers involved is troubling. It’s hard to say there are just a few bad apples when you have 10 officers engaging in this sort of force,” said Wong.

Ten deputies were placed on leave, although nine were seen in the apparent beating. On Friday, the FBI said it would launch a civil rights investigation into the incident.

San Bernardino County Sheriff’s Department did not return a call seeking comment by press time. But during a press conference held after the televised use of force incident,

Sheriff John McMahon stated, “…it was disturbing…I assure you that we will conduct a fair and thorough investigation into the incidents that occurred.” He mentioned that it appeared to be excessive to him.

The video has prompted officials such as James Ramos, chairman of the San Bernardino County Board of Supervisors and representative of the third district to advocate for body worn cameras on local law enforcement. A large portion of Apple Valley, where the suspect was apprehended by deputies, is part of Ramos’ district.

Ramos released a statement Tuesday that in part said, “The incident in our High Desert last week has provoked concern among members of the Board of Supervisors.

(Read full story on www.thewestsidegazette.com)

TALLAHASSEE, FL — The weather is heating up and for many Floridians this means it’s time to cool off in the pool. While a day of playing in the pool can be fun, injuries and illnesses due to water-related activities increase during this time of year.

“Simple precautions can keep friends and family safe in and around pools, beaches, and lakes,” said State Surgeon General and Secretary of Health Dr. John Armstrong. “By being watchful together, we can keep

the fun in water activities for everyone.”

Pool safety is everyone’s responsibility. Waterproof Florida encourages layers of protection that include supervision, barriers and emergency preparedness. You can learn about the layers on the WaterproofFL website.

Here are a few tips to ensure the safety of you and your loved ones this pool season: · Do not swim when you have diarrhea and make sure

you take bathroom breaks every 60 minutes. · Shower with soap before you start swimming and take rinse showers every time you get back into the water. · Wash your hands after visiting the bathroom or changing diapers. · Don’t swallow the water you swim in. Parents should take children on bathroom breaks every 60 minutes and check diapers every 30–60 minutes.

Particularly for children with disabilities, adult supervision is imperative. According to the National Autism Association, from 2009–2011 accidental drowning accounted for 91 percent of the total U.S. deaths reported in children with an Autism Spectrum Disorder ages 14 and younger.

Safe Kids Worldwide, a global organization dedicated to preventing injuries in children, offers a video that addresses water safety for children with special needs.

before they even sit at a desk or are thought to be bad students before they even start to do work.

One way to combat this issue according to a study conducted by researchers in Florida is to hire more minority teachers so that the students will have someone that they can relate to.

The researchers combed through data from the Florida State school districts and came up with some interesting results.

They looked through tests that were taken by the students in different schools and looked at their scores. They then looked at the race of the teacher that the students had and looked at the correlation between the scores

and whether they were the same or different race as their teacher.

It was found that Black and white students did better with reading when they had a teacher that was the same race as them. It was also found that Black, white and Asian students did better in math when taught by a teacher of the same race.

The need for more minority teachers is bigger now than ever before. The 2014-2015 school year was the first year in history that there were more minority students that were enrolled than non-minority students. But the diversity, or lack thereof, of the teachers remains the same. In high school it is more imperative

that students are taught by teachers that are of the same race as them. The study also showed that non-minority students were not negatively affected by having a teacher that is a different race. This is a call for a more diverse teaching staff all across the country. The students are in need and it seems that the schools are having a hard time compensating for that need.

A MIND IS A TERRIBLE THING TO WASTE, EACH ONE, TEACH ONE

Broward County's Oldest and Largest African American Owned and Operated Newspaper

Page 8 www.thewestsidegazette.com • April 30 - May 6, 2015

Opinion

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

Freddie Gray, Baltimore and more

By Pastor Rasheed Z. Baaith “My soul is weary with sorrow; strengthen me according to Your Word.” Psalms 119:28 (capitalization mine) The murder of Freddie Gray abounds with profound, generational, horrific tragedies. Even before the moment of his spine being snapped and death coming as a consequence, tragedy was enveloping Baltimore like some doom-filled cloud. It was certainly there before parts of the city burst into flames.

Like a lot of tragedy it may have been averted. When Stephanie Rawlings-Blake became mayor of Baltimore and Anthony W. Blatts was named commissioner of that city, they both had to be aware of the reputation of the Baltimore Police Department. Especially Mayor Rawlings-Blake; she was born and raised in the city, as were her parents.

Since 2011 Baltimore has paid out more than $5.7 million from lawsuits claiming police officers have beaten or killed alleged suspects in confrontations on the street. The individuals range in age from a 15-year-old riding a bike to an 87-year-old grandmother.

There have also been a number of deaths from police/citizen encounters.

Edward Lamont Hunt, Anthony Anderson and Tyrone Brown were all killed by Baltimore police officers. In each case there was an award of money to the families implying wrong doing on the part of the Baltimore police.

This then is a many generational predicament that has been festering for years and has now blown up with the violence that engendered it in the first place. 1968 was the last time Baltimore had this level of community street violence and that was caused by the assassination of Dr. King. But this is home grown in nature.

That means a number of things.

One is this is a systemic problem re-

How does the Iran nuclear accord affect my community?

By Don Valentine Let’s assume you did not like paying $3.50 a gallon for gas last summer.

Then you have a Pocketbook reason to be concerned about the strife in the

Middle East. If there is any hint of possible trouble distributing oil from the VALENTINE Middle East the price of oil goes vertical. The other Arab countries and Israel do not want to see a nuclear armed Iran.

It’s certain that if Iran gains Oppenheimer’s toy then there will be an arms race in the Arab countries. This conundrum has the entire U.N. Security Council perplexed on how to prevent this disaster. Keep in mind this five-member group includes countries like China, and Russia that are not the biggest fans of the U.S. The pundits of President Obama mendaciously color the topic as a U.S. exclusive issue.

So far, the U.N. has used the “stick” method of massive financial sanctions to motivate Iran not to create a nuclear bomb. While this has been a burden on their economy, it has still led to an increase from 100 centrifuges to 20,000. Clearly that path is not slowing their progress toward producing a bomb. The current glut in world oil has hit Iran particularly hard when combined with the sanctions.

President Obama’s Administration has taken the lead to encourage the U.N. to use the “carrot” method to negotiate with Iran to behave responsible. This stance has been criticized by conservative pundits. These critics have yet to offer an alternative plan to put out this fire. Dr. Henry Kissinger recently commented in the Wall Street Journal that President Obama and Secretary Kerry should be praised for the progress they have achieved on this front.

Primarily, if Iran gets the bomb they will be a major threat to Israel.

As Israel’s big brother the U.S. will be directly involved in protecting them.

That has major domestic consequences in our community if we have to defend Israel. Guess which minority group has the largest presence in the military!

Don Valentine, free lance writer, U.C. Berkeley ’89 B.S. Psychology, McGeorge Law School J.D. ‘92

quiring wholesale systemic change; two, the refusal to understand the long smoldering resentment and anger of BAAITH the community against the Baltimore Police Department is either grounded in stupidity or willfully done. In either case, if it continues so will the potential for more violence. How can it not?

Police Commissioner Blatts has been in that position since 2012 and has implemented new policies and procedures in hopes of bringing a new professionalism to the police department and when it comes to disciplining bad cops.

The changes have not done what he hoped. He obviously has to do more.

So do others.

Why the President didn’t take to the air waves when Baltimore exploded or helicopter over the burning city to get a closer look at the situation is way past my understanding. While it all would have been symbolic, it is a symbolism that city needed and its people would have appreciated.

What more has to happen for him to speak up, what will cause him to leave that pedestal of detachment he’s on when it comes to the deterioration of the relationship between the Black community and the police? How many more Black boys or men or girls have to get shot?

Next, the President has to recognize and acknowledge the problems of the Baltimore Police Department are the same problems the police departments all over this country have. It is a national dilemma and it will take a national effort to impact it. Influence flows from the top down not the bottom up.

Only flames do that. Think about it.

As President Obama celebrates the confirmation of Loretta Lynch’s nomination, on one hand he is ecstatic, and on the other hand, upset. It should not take CALDWELL Sen. Mitch McConnell, president of the Senate, five and a half months before he can find time to have a vote on the President’s nomination. President Obama has been mistreated at every turn, with obstruction and disrespect; the fundamental goal of Senator Mitch McConnell’s treatment.

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.

By George E. Curry, NNPA Columnist It’s the academic version of the world heavyweight championship CURRY boxing matches between Muhammad Ali and Joe Frazier in Zaire labeled “The Rumble in the Jungle” and the Philippine’s “Thriller in Manila.” Whatever label you attach to it, the public feud between Professors Cornel West and Michael Eric Dyson, two of our most gifted intellectuals, cannot be ignored.

Dyson’s original opus weighed in at nearly 10,000 words – four to five times the length of a typical magazine feature story – and landed plenty of punches to West’s body of work. Dyson charged that President Obama’s inauguration marked “a pronounced and decades-long scholarly decline” for West.

He explained, “It is not only that West’s preoccupations with Obama’s perceived failures distracted him, though that is true; more accurate would be to say that the last several years revealed West’s paucity of serious and fresh intellectual work, a trend far longer in the making. West is still a Man of Ideas, but those ideas today are a vain and unimaginative repackaging of his earlier hits. He hasn’t published without aid of a co-writer a single scholarly book since Keeping Faith, which appeared in 1993, the same year as Race Matters.”

Despite other issues addressed by Dyson in his tome, at its core, this heavyweight fight is personal. In the interest of full disclosure, I know both Cornel and Michael and count each of them as a friend.

(Read full story on www.thewestsidegazette.com)

Black women killed by police are ignored Blacks split over Obama

By Julianne Malveaux, NNPA Columnist

By Bill Fletcher, Jr., NNPA Columnist

You know their names – Eric Garner, Michael Brown, Tamir Rice – be- MALVEAUX cause these African American men were unarmed and killed by “law enforcement” officers.

Their names have been part of a litany invoked when police shootings are discussed. Their deaths have been part of the impetus for the Black Lives Matter movement, especially because the police officers that killed these men (and a little boy) have paid no price for their murders.

You are far less likely to know about Rekia Boyd, shot by an off-duty police officer in Chicago. While the officer who killed Boyd was acquitted, her killing sparked few protests, and little national attention.

Kate Abbey-Lambertz of Huffington Post identified 15 women who were killed during police encounters when they were unarmed, including Tanisha Anderson (Cleveland), seven-year-old Aiyana Stanley-Jones (Detroit), and Yvette Smith (Bastrop, Tex.). The killing of another woman, Miriam Carey, was especially egregious.

Carey, a dental hygienist, drove her car into a security checkpoint near the White House.

Since the moment that he announced his candidacy in 2007, through to this day, there have been two debates over how to understand President Ba- FLETCHER rack Obama. There is the larger social debate, which includes the hysterical and racist assaults on the First Family. There is also a separate debate, one that only occasionally appears in the mainstream media, one that is rooted in Black America.

The first Black debate, during his run for the presidency, revolved largely around whether President Obama was truly Black, in large part as a result of his mixed blood. As his candidacy proved substantial, voices in Black America began to shift. There remained, however, many of us on the left end of the spectrum who had varying degrees of concern about what President Obama truly represented, and specifically, who he represented.

There was no consensus in these criticisms from the left, we should note.

Some critics were most concerned about whether he would truly represent Black America; others were concerned that he would be a continuation of the Bill Clinton administration.

In either case, the voices of the critics were drowned out by the rising levels of excitement in connection with the campaign.

(Read full story on www.thewestsidegazette.com)

Is President Obama taking Republican treatment Personal?

By Roger Caldwell

Michael Eric Dyson vs.

Cornel West

The Democrats understand that their agenda is at a standstill because the Republicans are in positions of power in both Houses. With this new sense of power, the Democrats can expect things to get nastier and uglier with the Republicans. Ted Cruz, Marco Rubio, and Rand Paul, the three early officially announced Republicans running for 2016 presidential campaign, have decided to spend their time attacking the president and his policies.

From this point on, the President and the Democrats are the enemy, and this makes for a very contentious legislative session. During the last session, the Congress was labeled as the do-nothing Congress, and this session it will be considered the broken and dysfunctional Congress. Many political experts argue that not much will get accomplished this session, and the blame will be put on the president.

“The things that these GOP candidates stand for run counter to the Democratic message. They are against the minimum wage. They are against helping ensure equal pay for women.

They are against health care reform.

They are against immigration reform.

(Read full story on www.thewestsidegazette.com)

(Read full story on www.thewestsidegazette.com)

Death row’s other killers

By Lee A. Daniels, NNPA Columnist Glenn Ford, 64, convicted of murder in 1984, spent a quartercentury on the death row of Louisiana’s notorious Angola prison DANIELS before his conviction was overturned and he was freed last year. Anthony Ray Hinton, 58, convicted of murder in 1983, spent 30 years on Alabama’s death row before his murder conviction was overturned earlier this month and he was freed.

That means that Glenn Ford and Anthony Ray Hinton join the growing number of individuals convicted of capital murder and other serious crimes who’ve been proven innocent only after years in prison – and whose exonerations underscore how widespread are the terrible flaws of American’s criminal justice system, and especially its ultimate evil: the death penalty.

(Read full story on www.thewestsidegazette.com)

The Gantt Report Championship racism

By Lucius Gantt On May 2, 2015 Floyd Mayweather, Jr. and Manny Pacquiao will face each other in the most lucrative professional boxing match in history.

The prize fight is GANTT scheduled for 12 rounds but Mayweather and other African Americans are in a fight that seems like a lifetime!

No matter what we do, how much money we make or how successful we are, we can never knock out racism!

I’ll bet you the white folk attending the boxing match will not be cheering “USA, USA” because most whites in America want Pacquiao to beat Mayweather to a bloody pulp!

They don’t want Pacquiao to win because they love Manny. They want Pacquiao to win because they hate Mayweather! The white folk won’t buy the expensive pay-per-view to see the fight to cheer Mayweather. They will spend nearly $100 hoping to see Mayweather lose!

You see, any Black person the devil can’t control, the devil will try to destroy.

The first thing the devil does to destroy Black men and women is to get them fired. Well, Blacks like Mayweather that can generate revenue on their own can’t be fired.

(Read full story on www.thewestsidegazette.com)

To Be Equal

Eradicating childhood poverty one nose at a time

By Marc H. Morial, NNPA Columnist “The test of our progress is not whether we add more to the abundance of those who have much; it is whether we provide MORIAL enough for those who have too little.” – Franklin D. Roosevelt, Inaugural Address, Jan. 20, 1937 Broadcasting from a refugee camp in Sudan on Christmas day in 1985, Comic Relief U.K., the British charity behind Red Nose Day, spearheaded fundraising phenomena that, decades later, continues to chip away at the global childhood poverty rate and has made its symbol, a clown-style red nose, a popular, poverty-fighting fashion accessory.

The telethon was started by comedians who believed they could raise awareness and money, with the help of mass media and celebrities, to change and save the lives of children living in poverty in the United Kingdom and abroad. Since its first televised broadcast, Red Nose Day has raised more than one billion dollars in donations for organizations dedicated to eradicating poverty—and for the first time in the event’s long and successful history—Americans have been invited to put on red noses and assist in the widespread effort to transform the lives of children living in poverty globally, and across our nation.

(Read full story on www.thewestsidegazette.com)

Mr. President, please help us get home!

By Rufus Rochell Mr. President, sir, there are a great many men and women presently held in federal prisons sentenced in the 1980’s, such as myself. Many of us received draconian sentences mostly involving so-called “Ghost Drugs.”

Most of these sentences have been given to Black people, long sentences, without a chance for parole. This has had a great destructive force on Black families and Black communities.

Mr. President, looking at my situation, Rufus Rochelle, #08628-017, this coming May will mark my 27th year in federal prison, day for day. My indictment charged me with conspiracy and possession with the intent to distribute 50 (fifty) grams of crack cocaine, and a charge of obstruction of justice.

The United States District Court of the Northern District (Gainesville Division), sentenced me to two 35 year terms of imprisonment, to run concurrently, and one five-year sentence to run consecutively, for a total of 40 years imprisonment.

I was indicted and arrested on the charges above, those involving 50 grams of crack cocaine. Yet the court, meaning the judge, the prosecutor and probation office, changed the relatively small amount of 50 grams of crack cocaine to 24 kilos of crack cocaine, or approximately 24,000 grams!

(Read full story on www.thewestsidegazette.com)

Broward County's Oldest and Largest African American Owned and Operated Newspaper

Page 10 • www.thewestsidegazette.com • April 30 - May 6, 2015

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Recent columns have focused on questions for employers to ask prospective fundraising employees, and questions for interviewees to ask their interviewers. Our goal: to help all parties understand the critical role of fundraising professionals and what it takes for them to be successful. As a nonprofit executive – or as the person in charge of fundraising for an organization – you need to know what to look for in a candidate when hiring. And, as a fundraising professional you have to know how to ask questions that will reveal whether or not you are joining a fundraising team or if you will be expected to be a miracle worker.

A number of readers reached out to us in past weeks, sharing reactions to these columns along with true confessions. We heard from a development director looking for work because the

Pearl and Mel Shaw new executive director doesn’t know fundraising and doesn’t know strategic planning. Another confessed he really hadn’t given his all in his prior position: he never felt a part of the team. Through our work we have heard a common plea from executive directors and board members who talk with us about their staff, asking in exasperation “why don’t they just raise the money?”

Given that it’s NBA playoff season we offer the analogy of basketball. Consider these comparisons.

(Read full story on www.thewestsidegazette.com)

Green Tree must pay $63 million for mistreating borrowers

By Charlene Crowell, NNPA Columnist Consumers harmed by Green Tree Servicing, LLC, a major mortgage servicer, won an important victory. Joint enforcement actions by the Federal Trade Commission (FTC) and the Consumer FiCrowell nancial Protection Bureau (CFPB) resulted in a return of $48 million to affected borrowers and a $15 million civil penalty fine, together totaling $63 million.

According to financial regulators from 2010-2014, Green Tree Servicing, LLC, mistreated mortgage borrowers who were trying to save their homes from foreclosures. The litany of charges reads like a financial nightmare for troubled homeowners: • Misrepresentation of monies consumer owed or the terms of their loans; • Failure to honor mortgage modifications made by earlier servicers; • Sharing borrowers’ debts with employers and/or other third parties; • Failure to investigate disputes before continuing collections; • Threats of arrest, imprisonment, property seizure, and wage garnishments; and • Calling borrowers and leaving voice mails at their homes and workplaces as early as 5 a.m. and as late as 11 p.m.

“Green Tree failed consumers who were struggling by prioritizing collecting payments over helping homeowners,” said Richard Cordray, CFPB director. “When homeowners in distress had their mortgages transferred to Green Tree, their previous foreclosure relief plans were not maintained.

(Read full story on www.thewestsidegazette.com)

April 30 - May 6, 2015 • www.thewestsidegazette.com • Page 11

Broward County's Oldest and Largest African American Owned and Operated Newspaper

Blacks, Latinos make health care gains

By Stacy M. Brown From The Washington Informer Recent health care reports show declines in the uninsured rates for both African-Americans and other minorities nationally, while highlighting that Washington continues to be among cities where Blacks and Latinos have benefited greatly

from the Affordable Care Act (ACA).

Among ethnic groups, Latinos and African Americans saw the biggest declines in uninsured rates, with drops of 8.3 percent and 7.3 percent respectively since late 2013, according to a report released on April 14 by the GallupHealthways Well-Being Index.

In an earlier, separate study released by DC Health Link, researchers concluded that the number of uninsured individuals in the District dropped as much as 43 percent as a result of those previously uninsured signing up for coverage through DC Health Link.

“This new report continues to highlight the success of the Affordable Care Act – showing

that more than 16 million uninsured Americans have been able to obtain quality, affordable coverage since the Affordable Care Act became law nearly five years ago on March 23, 2010,” said Texas Democratic Congresswoman Eddie Bernice Johnson, a ranking member of the House Committee on Science, Space, and Technology, regarding the national report.

The Gallup-Healthways Well-Being Index study shows that the percentage of

More and more senior citizens maintaining an active sex life practice over 40 years ago, says that initially he saw on average one patient a month who was 100 years of age or older. Now, he says he averages two to three such patients in a week.

However, an increase in older Americans is not the only reason for the spike. In years past, men who lived long lives often had physical obstacles to engaging in intercourse. But with the advent of medications like Viagra, Cialis, Levitra, etc., a

By Fritz Esker From the Louisiana Weekly The month of May is designated “Older Americans” Month.

This little-known designation is not new. Initially established by President John F. Kennedy in 1963, the month exists to highlight a variety of important issues for the United States’ older population.

One such topic is sex. And for older Americans, more and more are enjoying an active love life well into their golden years.

According to Dr. Dudley Danoff, an author and expert in the field of urology, the increase in sexual intercourse in older Americans can be attributed to a number of factors.

Top on the list is that more Americans are living longer.

Danoff, who began his

Congresswoman Wilson presented the Congressional Badge of Bravery

Congresswoman Wilson (r) presented the Congressional Badge of Bravery to Officer Mario Gutierrez (c) for his selfless and heroic actions.

MIAMI, FL – Recently, Congresswoman Frederica S. Wilson (FL-24) presented the Congressional Badge of Bravery to Miami-Dade Police Officer Mario Gutierrez for his selfless and heroic actions that saved thousands of lives. Gutierrez resides in district 24. Congresswoman Wilson issued the following statement: “As police departments around the country battle perception and image problems, and heightened tensions within our communities, there are still many incidents that remind us of the goodness of the thousands of police officers dedicated to service. Miami-Dade Police Officer Mario Gutierrez is one such officer. Today I was honored to present him with the Congressional Badge of Bravery for going above and beyond the call of duty for his community.

While gravely injured, Officer Gutierrez saved countless lives by stopping a knife-wielding suspect from igniting a fuel tank at a gas station in October of

2013,” said Congresswoman Wilson.

The Congressional Badge of Bravery was established by Congress to honor exceptional acts of bravery in the line of duty by federal, state and local law enforcement officers. The medals are awarded annually by the U.S. Attorney General and are presented by the recipients’ Congressional representatives.

Congresswoman Wilson added that, “Officer Gutierrez is a shining example of the thousands of truly dedicated and committed police officers patrolling our streets and neighborhoods. With recent events and the controversy surrounding police officers, I have been asked on several occasions what are my thoughts on the police. My response is that we have to respect our men and women in law enforcement – we would not have an orderly society without their dedication and commitment.”

(Read full story on www.thewestsidegazette.com)

greater number of male senior citizens are able to enjoy an active sex life.

Dr. Danoff believes this is a positive trend. Many Americans still believe that sex is something for the young (or at least middleaged). But Dr. Danoff said that if a person is healthy enough to get out of bed, do some simple exercises, and take a few steps, then he or she can have sex.

(Read full story on www.thewestsidegazette.com)

adults who lack health coverage plunged to a record low in the first quarter. A total of 11.9 percent of adults didn’t have any kind of health insurance in the first quarter of 2015.

As first reported by CNBC, that rate – the lowest since the index began tracking health insurance statuses in 2008 – is one percentage point less than the prior quarter.

And it is 6.1 percentage points lower than the record high hit in the third quarter of 2013, which was right before the ACA exchanges began selling private health plans and directing eligible people to government-run Medicaid programs.

President Barack Obama’s requirement that nearly all Americans have some kind of health coverage or be subject to a tax penalty began in 2014.

In the District, the number of uninsured has steadily declined.

Former Mayor Vincent Gray cited the ACA as a priority during his tenure, and by the end of December 2014, 18,399 previously uninsured District residents gained health cover-age through DC Health Link’s in-

Congresswoman Eddie Bernice Johnson applauds gains in health care coverage by African-Americans and Latinos.

(Courtesy photo) dividual and family marketplace.

“This shows that our efforts to cover uninsured people are working well.” said Dr. Leighton Ku, chair of the Research Committee of the Executive Board of DC Health Benefit Exchange Authority and professor of health policy at the Milken Institute School of Public Health at George Washington University.

(Read full story on www.thewestsidegazette.com)

One Hundred Black Men awarded $75,000 Walmart Foundation

From l to r: Bill Howell, Member, One Hundred Black Men, Inc. of New York; Jason Klipa, Director of Public Affairs & Government Relations. of OHBM’s commu-nity NEW YORK, N.Y. — One outreach program. rk City.

Hundred Black Men (OHBM) (Read full story on received a grant of $75,000 from www.thewestsidegazette.com) the Walmart Foundation as part of both organizations’ commitments to fighting hunger and promoting nutrition among those in need.

Walmart representatives awarded the donation at a ceremony held at the One Hundred Black Men’s headquarters at 299 Park Ave in New York on Monday.

“It is through Walmart’s generous support for our Hunger Relief Initiative that this and other programs of the One Hundred Black Men, Inc. of New York have been so successful,” said Michael J. Garner, president of the founding chapter of the international organization. “On behalf of the board of directors and our members we are thrilled to be able to partner with Walmart on such a significant community service — providing meals for thousands of families throughout New York City,” Garner added.

OHBM works to improve the quality of life within their communities through their Holiday Hunger Relief program, which provides healthy meals to families during the holiday season.

With the assistance of Walmart’s donation, the organization’s hunger relief and nutrition education program will be able to expand its reach to feed over 6,000 families throughout the five boroughs of New York City.

The hunger relief and nutrition education program was launched in 2012 and quickly became an integral component

NOTICE CALL FOR BIDS THE SCHOOL BOARD OF BROWARD COUNTY, FLORIDA, is seeking bids for the following bids/RFPs. Please log onto www.demandstar.com to receive more information and to download the bid/RFP documents: Title/No.: Due Date:

High Capacity Air Conditioning Filters – ITB 16-015R 5/5/15 @ 2:00 p.m.

Title/No.: Due Date:

Consulting Services for Employee Benefits Program – RFP 16-017V 5/19/15 @ 2:00 p.m.

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

‘SPICE’ HAS SENT 1,000 TO THE ER SINCE THE BEGINNING OF APRIL -- More than 1,000 people from around the country have been poisoned by fake weed, called “Spice,” in the past month, the New York Times recently reported. The popular drug that mimics the effect of marijuana has killed at least one person and left two more in the ICU. However, health officials admit the death toll might be higher, but they don’t have definite numbers at this time.

(Photo: Susannah Bryan/Sun Sentinel/MCT)

Broward County's Oldest and Largest African American Owned and Operated Newspaper

Page 12 • www.thewestsidegazette.com • April 30 - May 6, 2015

Loretta Devine says her new NBC comedy will tackle tough topics criminal not to talk about these things.

"It’s criminal not to reflect the real conversations that America is having especially at this time when it’s all about conversations,” executive pro-

By Kristina Byas Speaking of the taboo on television doesn’t always go over well for some shows. Ratings can drop, viewers may not agree with the topics or people just want to enjoy a good show and not think about controversial events in today’s world.

Loretta Devine is set to star in a new NBC comedy that plans to turn the taboo and unmentionable into the acceptable.

The Carmichael Show centers around Jerrod Carmichael, his decision to move in with his longtime girlfriend and what his parents think about his decision.

“I play his mother Cynthia,” Devine said at NBCUniversal’s recent press day. “A lot of it is based on his family, but it’s also sort of his way of looking at things.”

Although the show is a comedy, its plans to break the ordinary and really dive in to those taboo subjects that most TV shows avoid will set it apart from the others. A young man planning to move in with his girlfriend is the focus of the show, but the conversations will also reflect real-life in America.

Topics like Ferguson and President Obama are two subjects that are expected to be discussed openly.

“Our intention is to talk about things, like to actually reflect the conversations that are being had in living rooms amongst families, amongst couples. The most important thing for us is to really be people that exist in the world.

"A lot of comedy seems so isolated and it seems removed from our daily realities, and it’s

‘Once-in-a-lifetime’ WNBA legend inducted into Hall of Fame

HELP WANTED NEW JERUSALEM MISSIONARY BAPTIST CHURCH, INC. Is now accepting resumes for the position of Pastor. Candidates interested must be called

by God and demonstrate the qualities of 1 Timothy 3:1-7 and meet the following criteria: Candidate must have at least five continuous years of Baptist Church pastoral/ ministerial experience and must be a licensed and Ordained Baptist Minister; Must have a clear understanding of Baptist Church doctrine; Minimum of two years of secular college and additional degrees or certificates of completion of biblical theological studies/ seminary school; the ability to preach and teach God’s word; strong evangelism; love for God and people; be innovative to move forward; strong knowledge of the Bible; skilled in biblical teaching; demonstrates community involvement; enforces confidentiality; conflict resolution; demonstrates spirit of unity. Must serve in a Baptist church that will give a letter of recommendation; must submit to a background check.

Resumes will be accepted as of April 15 – May 19, 2015.

Please send resumes to New Jerusalem Missionary Baptist Church, Inc. at 1107 N.W. 29th Ave., Ft. Lauderdale, FL 33311.

April 23, 30, May 7, 2015

LEGAL NOTICES 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.

April 2, 9, 16, 23, 30, 2015

NOTICE TO CONTRACTORS Florida Department of Transportation Project Bids will be received by the Tallahassee Office until 10:30 A.M. on Wednesday, May 20, 2015, for Proposal ID T4411. The improvements under this contract consist of resurfacing, roadway widening, drainage, constructing a bus bay, signing and pavement markings, signalization and lighting on SR 834 in Broward County.

This is a Business Development Initiative (BDI) project, and a Certification of Qualification is not required for this project. Budget Estimate $1,271,793.00. Complete letting advertisement information for this project is available on our website at http://www.dot.state.fl.us/cc-admin/ Lettings/Letting_Project_Info.shtm or by calling (850) 414-4000.

April 30, 2015

LESLIE

By Victor Ochieng Lisa Leslie has been inducted into the Naismith Hall of Fame.

A look at her basketball career supports that decision. Without a doubt, she gave her best to the sport, handled herself with dignity, and stood tall at all times.

Leslie began playing basketball before the WNBA became the center of the sport for women and was literally the face of the league before the likes of Maya Moore and Candace Parker came into play.

Leslie revealed that she was surprised to have been voted into the Hall of Fame. “I thought you had to be older to get into the Hall of Fame,” the 42-yearold cracked to the Associated Press.

Standing at 6’5" and undeniably attractive, Leslie proved that she could focus and achieve things that many girls wouldn’t dare. She gave her all to the sport, even when the future didn’t look bright, particularly for women.

“There never had been a woman built like her who could do the things that she did,” championship coach Geno Auriemma of Connecticut said.

“She has been the forerunner . . . The impact she had in the women’s game at the time didn’t get the attention it did now. I’m glad people remember, since sometimes people forget. I had a chance to be on the coaching staff with her in Sydney when she was on the [2000 Olympic] team. She was a once-in-a-lifetime kind of player.”

Leslie had a successful allAmerican basketball run at USC before joining the WNBA where she played for 13 years.

She excelled in the league, having played for the Los Angeles Sparks, one of the leading franchises. During that period, she earned two championships and became the first player to dunk in a WNBA game. Leslie is an eight-time all star and threetime MVP. “Playing in front of 35,000 fans cheering ‘USA’ really, really always warms my heart,” she said of the Atlanta Games.

“The first time they placed a gold medal around my neck.

The other three were great as well, but I can’t say how much that first time with that team meant to me. We’re going on our 20-year anniversary next year.”

After all the years playing for the Sparks, she now partly owns the team after a 2011 acquisition. And to wrap it all up, she’s the WNBA’s leading rebounder of all time and is a winner of four Olympic gold medals.

ducer Jerrod Carmichael told Hollywood Reporter.

Unlike most comedies on TV right now, people can actually relate to this. This cast not being afraid to go there and weigh in on the controversy in America isn’t a bad thing at all.

People sharing their thoughts on social media was a start, but now the thoughts and feelings are being expressed on a popular network during prime time television.

Starring alongside Divine, will be David Alan Grier, Amber West and Jerrod Carmichael.

The Carmichael Show will premiere date Wednesday, August 5.

April 30 - May 6, 2015 • www.thewestsidegazette.com • Page 13

Broward County's Oldest and Largest African American Owned and Operated Newspaper

Chi Psi Omega Chapter wins at the 62nd Regional Conference in Orlando Chi Psi Omega Chapter of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Inc., Coral Springs, members were winners at the 62nd South Atlantic Regional Conference in Orlando, Fla., held April 1519, 2015. The chapter received the First Place Sharon BrownHarriott AKA Connection Award, First Place Global Leadership Through Timeless Service Initiative II: Health and Wellness (for chapters with membership more than 75, but less than 150).

First Place Georgia Schank, “Innovative Program Award”, Third Place Marsha LewisBrown, “Service Impact Award”, First Place “Chapter Arts and Crafts” and Chapter President, Veronica E. Phillips, re-

ceived “Delores H. Oliver Service to Mankind”, First Place award. Moreover, the chapter received the STAR (Standing Tall Among the Regions) Award for its outstanding standard’s evaluation. Chapter members are committed to uplifting their respective communities through service and evidencing that service through competition at its conferences.

Forty-one chapter members attended this conference; which included Veronica E. Phillips; president, Christanie Abernathy, Andrea Bailey-Dowling, Tamara F. Battle, LaKeitha G. Baugh, Juline Blanfort, Mavis Brown, Kassandra Burton, Miriam Cato, Sabrina ColstonLeslie, Trivel Cooper McKire,

Quowando Ford-Brown, Alana DaSent, Ashante Davis, Bennie J. Edwards, Yulanda SmithEllis, Cassandra Evans, Malikh Franklin-Williams, Miriam U. Gayle, Revertha W. Grace, Michelle P. Green, Olivia B. Hilton, Brandi Joseph, Lotoya JosephBrown, Candace Kennedy, Ann B. Lee, Catrice Lee-Brown, Joel D. McCray, Venetta McCullough, Tscharner MillerStrapp, Carla Navarro, Manassa Petithomme, Tricia Richardson-Roberts, Nina Rickett-McWhorter, Tracy Roach, Ervean Shannon-Goff, Lisa Smith, Barbara J. Thomas, Dione Trawich, Kimberly M. Williams and Luwando WrightHines.

Regional Leadership Dr. Sylvia Sloane Jones, 2014-2016 Cluster I Coordinator for the Significant South Atlantic Region Conference & Zeta Rho Omega Chapter 20152016 Social Chair, has made a successful first term come to life, as she travels from state to state representing Cluster One throughout the region.

South Atlantic Regional Director is Sharon Brown Harriott, and it was such a pleasure for Dr. Jones to introduce the regional director to the South Florida Chapters in grand style.

South Atlantic Region is the

largest of 10 of the AKA Regions with graduate and undergraduate chapters across Florida, Georgia, and South Carolina.

Dr. Jones has served as past president of the Zeta Rho Omega Chapter, Fort Lauder-dale, Fla., served on the AKA National Response Team, the cochairman of the 58th South Atlantic Region General Conference, and the 2014 South Atlantic Boule Luncheon co-chairman.

Currently, Dr. Jones is a Nurse Manager Mother & Baby Unit/Nurse Practitioner at

Chi Psi Omega Chapter of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Inc., Coral Springs members were winners at the 62nd South Atlantic Regional Conference.

Dr. Sylvia Sloane Jones, 2014-2016 Cluster I Coordinator.

106thAnnual Grand Lodge Session

Cluster 1 Chapters with Sharon Brown Harriott, South Atlantic Regional Director.

Memorial Healthcare System, for Miami/Fort Lauderdale areas, who simply enjoys a challenge and is truly dedicated and a purpose-driven professional.

She is very active in church and civic affairs, which allows her to continue teaching, traveling, line dancing, organi-

zing, and event planning, as she has continued to serve on various boards, as both a Florida A & M University (FAMU), BSN, in nursing graduate, and a University of Miami graduate (UM), MSN Family Nurses Practitioner and also Doctor of Nursing Practice.

She is married to Vincent Jones, and they have one son.

Significantly, Dr. Jones credits her motivation also to her dear mother, Mrs. Elizabeth Sloane, as a true family affair. Her passion includes caring for others, education, and leading by example.

17th Grand Master, Stafford bids farewell to The MWUGL PHA Florida Jurisdiction

Newly elected Grand Master Mark S. Jordan.

Dr. Moore accepting the plaque of appreciation from Grand Master Scruggs.

Submitted by R. W. Emmett Kater, 33°, PublicRelationsMWUGLPHAFlorida Jurisdiction

Past Eminent Commander Puryol receives certificate of Honorary Past Grand Master from PGM Stafford.

DGM Walter Gulley, 33°, HPGM Eugene Johnson, 33°, and GM Anthony T. Stafford, 33°.

Anthony T. Stafford, 33° KYCH, 17th Grand Master of The MWUGL PHA Florida Jurisdiction bids farewell to the craft. He also presented Past Eminent Commander Puryol the certificate of Honorary Past Grand Master and thanked the craft for allowing him to serve as the 17th Grand Master.

The first African American to be considered to be inducted into the Florida Veterans Hall of Fame, HPGM Eugene Johnson was in attendance and received much due respect from the Brethren.

The 145th Annual Grand Session of the MWUGL PHA Florida Jurisdiction was a great success which included the total body of our Masonic family and a great send off for the 17th Past Grand Master, The Honorable Anthony T. Stafford, 33°and a great acceptance for the 18th Grand Master, The Honorable Walter Gulley Jr., 33° God Save The Craft.

L to r: MW C. Brian Hart, 33°, Past Grand Master; MW Alexander H. Smith, 33°, Past Grand Master; Rev. Dr. Michael R Moore, 33°, 15th Grand Master of MWUGL, F&AM, PHA; MW Joshua D. Scruggs, 33°, Grand Master; & MW Kenneth M. Yates, 33°. Past Grand Master: as the designation of Honorary Past Grand Master is bestowed and presented to Rev. Dr. Moore.

Submitted By R.W. Bobby R. Henry, Sr., Grand Publicist The MWPHGL AF&AM of FL Inc. The 106th Annual Grand Communication of The Most Worshipful Prince Hall

Grand Lodge, Ancient Free & Accepted Masons of FL, Inc. (MWPHGL AF&AM.), was held April 17-23, 2015 in Orlando, Fla. The Messenger for the Opening Religious Service was the distinguished Rev. Dr. Michael R. Moore, 33°. Dr. Moore is the cur-

Brethren and Sisters in attendance at The Annual Grand Memorial Service.

rent Pastor of Powerhouse COGIC, located in Tallahassee, Fla. Additionally, he is the 15th Grand Master (Past Grand Master) of The Most Worshipful Union Grand Lodge, Free & Accepted Masons, PHA, of Florida & Belize, Central America, Inc. During the Religious Service Dr. Moore was presented with a plaque of appreciation for serving as the Messenger by Illustrious Joshua D. Scruggs, 33°, Grand Master. Grand Master Scruggs, on behalf of The Most Worshipful Prince Hall Grand AF&AM of FL Inc., also conferred Dr. Moore with the designation of that of an Honorary Past Grand Master of The MWPHGL AF&AM Masonic Jurisdiction.

During this Grand Communication, Mark S. Jordan, Sr., 33° was elected and duly installed as the next Grand Master for The MWPHGL AF&AM of FL Inc.

Happy Birthday to Lil Levi Henry May 3, 2015

We love and miss you, your Family

Page 14 • www.thewestsidegazette.com • April 30 - May 6, 2015

Whatever happened to jazz?

filled. Today, I heard a fresh new talent that just might fill that void.

Barry Stephenson’s new Jazz CD, Basics Truths will pleasantly surprise you. After listening to all 13 tracks of the CD, I was literally blown away by how good this young man is.

Basic Truths apparently was inspired by legendary jazz greats like Miles Davis, Duke Ellington, John Coltrane and Charles Mingus. I could easily pigeon hole his talent and consider it “Modern Jazz”, but it’s got an old school flavor that I haven’t heard in years.

At age 28, Stephenson is one of the most promising acoustic and electric bassists on the music scene today.

Though he now lives in New Orleans, Stephenson grew up right here in Fort Lauderdale.

Broward County's Oldest and Largest African American Owned and Operated Newspaper He graduated from Florida State University (FSU) in 2010, and earned his B.A. in music, where he was a member of the FSU Philharmonic Orchestra.

Before attending FSU, he graduated from South Broward High School in 2005 and has obtained his Master’s in Music from the University of New Orleans.

Stephenson comes from a musical family. His younger cousin, Robert Nalan, is the Band Director at Stranahan High School. His grandfather, Dr. Ben Stephenson, played in the world famous F.A.M.U. Marching 100, where he graduated with Nate Adderley. Dr. Stephenson not only jammed with Cannonball Adderley, but he was close friends and collaborated on several musical arrangements with Otis Red-

ding, Brook Benton, Sarah Vaughn, and Sam & Dave.

His grandmother, Mrs. Gussie Stephenson would often do Vaughn’s hair before she performed. His Granduncle Oliver (Ben’s brother) sang background for Ray Charles. He studied with jazz bassist Rodney Jordan and the legendary Marcus Roberts and has held his own while on stage with Wynton, Branford Marsalis and their dad Ellis Marsalis; he is also a recipient of the Ellis Marsalis Jazz Scholarship Award.

In the summer of 2011 Stephenson travelled to Colombia as part of the UNO Jazz Ambassadors. While there, he taught master classes and performed various concerts. In the fall, he was invited back by the United States Embassy to per-

form at the first Mompox International Jazz Festival as guest of honor.

He was selected to be a part of the Betty Carter Jazz Ahead, where he performed at The Kennedy Center.

In 2011, he joined the Glen David Andrews Band and played on several albums. Stephenson has also performed at various jazz festivals including the Montreux, Newport, Montreal, North Sea, Umbria and Playboy Jazz festivals after joining Jon Baptiste and Stay Human in 2013.

He’d most love is to play at the Jazz in the Gardens festival.

Check out his debut Jazz CD Basic Truths, which is available on ITunes, Amazon, and CD Baby. You may also follow him on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, and YouTube.

Boney James, his journey as a musician through new CD, futuresoul

By Rich Randall STEPHENSON

By B. Fitzgerald Whatever happened to jazz?

Really? Where did it go? If I were to challenge you to name 10 nationally known jazz acts,

other than David Sanborn, the Marsalis Brothers, Kenny G, Najee, Bob James, or Earl Klugh, could you?

There is clearly a void in the world of jazz that needs to be

CARTER PARK YANKEES -- Standing (l-r): Joshua Robertson, Jasmine Stephen, Timothy Brown, Earl Walker and Freddie Smith. Kneeling left: Brandon Gordon, Ketavious Brown, Kamarii Davis and Joshua Gordon.

From the comfort of his home, Boney James spoke candidly about his journey as a musician, and the impending release of his new CD, futuresoul which is scheduled for May 4, 2015.

Citing Grover Washington Jr. and The Crusaders as being influential in his growth as a musician and composer, James exudes great excitement about his new project. He believes the evolution of the music is essential, and always looks to infuse elements of soul in his compositions; hence the title cut futuresoul. It’s a collaborative effort that has a funky groove with a catchy hook that will have you singing after just one listen. It was produced by Dwele, a Neo-soul artist who’s no stranger to the R&B/Soul charts. Another soulful collaboration, Either Way features R&B/Soul singer, Stokley Williams of the acclaimed band, Mint Condition. James sites

technology and social media as being key elements for enabling such rich collaborations. “I met Stokley on twitter. Then, I sent him an mp3, and he sent me back a pro tools session that was absolutely amazing. I didn’t have to do much to it, and it worked out perfectly”. When probed about future collaborations, his lists Stevie Wonder and Aretha Franklin among other artists he’d love to work with.

With over two decades of experience under his belt, he admits that, like many other things in life, it takes talent, hard work, and a reasonable amount of luck to be successful.

Additionally, James offers this advice to anyone pursuing a career in music, “Always be yourself no matter what. Don’t listen to what the critics say. Always create the music that’s inside of you.” He has found that strategy to be the catalyst for the majority of his success in the industry.

James is scheduled to begin touring in mid-May 2015 to promote his new project, futuresoul. “I’m super grateful that people are still supporting and listening to my music,” states

James. For tour dates, he encourages fans to visit his website for the most accurate information on performance updates and releases www.boneyjames.com.