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Broward County's Oldest and Largest African American Owned and Operated Newspaper oud PPaper aper ffor or a Pr oud PPeople...Sinc eople...Sinc Proud Proud eople...Sincee 1971 VOL. 44 NO. 45 50¢ A Pr THURSDA THURSDAYY, DECEMBER 17 - WEDNESDA WEDNESDAYY, DECEMBER 23 23,, 2015

100 Black Men of Greater Fort Lauderdale sponsors 10th Annual Bike Drive

By Charles Moseley

There was no shortage of smiles among the kids who got a head start in the gift department this holiday season, thanks to the efforts of the 100 Black Men of Greater Fort Lauderdale (100BMOGFL). For the 10th year in a row the mentoring program awarded brand new bikes to deserving students who have excelled in the classroom academically.

The 100 Black Men of Greater Fort Lauderdale 10th Annual Bike-Drive took place on Dec. 12, 2015 at Joseph Carter Park in Fort Lauderdale as part of a Family Fun Day. Anthony Robinson, membership chairman of the 100BMOGFL set the tone for the day as he addressed some 300 family and friends on hand during the luncheon ceremony which kicked off a day of family fun and entertainment.

(Cont'd on Page 5)

The 100 Black Men of Greater Fort Lauderdale mentors joined with local elected officials including Broward County School Board Chairperson Dr. Rosalind Osgood (far left) standing next to Fort Lauderdale Vice-Mayor Robert McKenzie (far right) to honor students for their academic achievement during the 10th Annual 100 Black Men of Greater Fort Lauderdale Bike Drive. Standing next to vice-mayor is 100 Black Men President Dennis Wright.

FABOM celebrates decade of service; gears up 2016 agenda

Just give me my marching orders …Aaron and his sons shall go in and assign to each of them his task and what he must carry; Numbers 14:19 (NABRE)

By Bobby R. Henry, Sr. All this month I have been encumbered with decisions about how I would arrange my time with helping others.

We can find ourselves caught up and lost in the moments of doing what we think is a great thing, when in reality we have just made a quagmire out of a rose garden.

How many times have we, men in particular, had to redo a job after completing it only to realize that we either put something together backwards or left out a major piece?

That’s easy to remedy when you are working with tangible objects. However addressing life changing incidents can be as delicate as separating the egg yolk from the whites-if you don’t know what you are doing.

It may look easy and things often do, but when you get a piece of eggshell where you don’t want it could present a difficult task to remove without knowing the proper techniques.

Again those are eggshells, non-living things; yet life altering moments and how to respond correctly can be as elusive as snow snakes.

Even though we mean well and may have the best intensions, without proper guidance we are setting up an opportunity for lives and relationships to be ruined.

(Cont'd on Page 10)

President Obama & 94-year-old Black park ranger light up our nation, Christmas tree

Ninety-four -year old Betty Reid Soskin, the oldest working park ranger in our country, introduced President Obama at the lighting of the National Christmas Tree.

By Audrey Peterman

FABOM members at the Anniversary Meeting on Dec. 9, 2015 at the Citrus Club in Orlando. L-r: Vice President Johnny Hunter, Tempo News; President Bobby R. Henry, Sr., Westside Gazette; Debra Thompson, Metro News; Irene Johnson Prigden, Weekly Challenger; Jim Madison, Florida Sun; Secretary Gayle Andrews and Treasurer Kevin Collins, Orlando Times and Vern Dooling, Special Event Coordinator.

ORLANDO, FL — The Florida Association of Black Owned Media, Inc. (FABOM) outlined an aggressive agenda for 2016. FABOM celebrates its 10 year anniversary on Dec. 22, 2015.

The state’s oldest and largest African American media

organization consists of the state’s most influential African American media reaching over four million Floridians each week. While “majority” newspapers are struggling with dwindling subscriptions and readership, Black newspapers have a steady stream of readers

Pleading Our Own Cause

who rely almost totally on their publications for information important to them.

It’s common knowledge that Black newspapers are read by four to six individuals before thrown away.

(Cont'd on Page 11)

WWW.

When I saw a woman who grew up in the bosom of her former slave great-grandmother embrace the President of the United States Dec. 3, the Biblical prophecy ran through my mind, “The stone that the builder refused shall become the cornerstone.”

Ninety-four year old Betty Reid Soskin, the oldest working park ranger in our country, introduced President Obama at the lighting of the National Christmas Tree in President’s Park at the White House. She brought strong memories of her enslaved great-grandmother Leontine and clutched her photograph. When the President held her hand he pressed something into her palm, and gently closed her fingers over it. She looked down in wonder to find his Seal of the President of the United States.

If you don’t find that moment awesome, check your pulse. When someone with direct roots in slavery can ascend to be embraced and admired by the President of the United States on the most joyous stage in the land, it’s evidence that our democratic ideals, “with liberty and justice for all” are alive and well. We have a long way to go to perfect our democracy, and I am proud of the efforts we are making to confront inequality and oppression. We must realize that democracy does not come wrapped up in a tidy little box to be set aside and observed. It has and will always require the commitment and vigilance of informed citizens who continually shape and refine it to more fully reflect our shared values.

Could the story of the President and Ranger Betty unfold in the America that some of today’s presidential candi-

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dates and their supporters espouse? I think not! So those who would take us back to the dark pit of tribalism and religious bigotry must be confronted with the evidence of how our baser nature served us ill in the past.

The National Park System is ground zero for this exploration as it protects our history at the place where it happened.

Appropriately the President and the park ranger made history in one of our most prestigious units, President’s Park on the White House Ellipse.

For example, we’ve tried interning people before, with disastrous results. You can literally see that in the Japanese Internment at Manzanar and Minidoka National Historic Sites.

(Cont'd on Page 5) MEMBER: National Newspaper Publishers Association ( NNPA), and Southeastern African-American Publishers Association (SAAPA) Florida Association of Black Owned Media (FABOM)

Page 2 • December 17 - December 23, 2015

Westside Gazette

New Mount Olive Baptist Church and The Mount Olive Development Corporation’s (MODCO) Fifth Annual Homeless Give Back Day was a huge success! Special thanks to the following venders for your support in making this a great event: U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs (V.A.), Miami VA Homeless Program; Life Fellowship; The Office of Congressman Alcee Hastings; Wayne Barton Foundation; Papa John’s Pizza;100 Black Men of Fort Lauderdale; Shady Ice; Glass House Custom Creations; Dedrick Henry, Sr.; Eta Nu Chapter of Omega Psi Phi Fraternity, Inc.; Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Inc.; Tommy Hilfiger; Walmart; Sickle Cell Foundation; Bernard P. Alicki Health Center; Best Health Pharmacy; Mission United; Children’s Services Council; Operation Sacred Trust; Broward County Housing Options; Broward Sheriff’s Office; Fort Lauderdale Police Department; and the City of Fort (Photos by Ron Lyons) Lauderdale; and Westside Gazette.

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Jussie and Jur nee Smollett on W orld AIDS Day: Jurnee World ‘Y ou can’t pick and choose when Black Lives Matter’ ‘You

Journee and Jussie Smollett talk HIV and why Black lives matter.

By Kenrya Rankin, From Colorlines: News for Action On Worlds AIDS Day, the actors and activists discuss the importance of advocating for the lives of Black people in all arenas.

December 1 marked World AIDS Day, and with it came the opportunity to not only support and advocate for the 34 million people who are currently living with HIV and AIDS

worldwide, but also worked to erase the factors that lead to new infections. In the United States, 38 percent of the 1.2 million people living with HIV and AIDS are people of color, and they represent a disproportionate 72 percent of new infections (per 2013 data, the latest year available).

Empire actor Jussie Smollett and sister Jurnee Smollett-Bell (the upcoming Underground) have long advocated in this field through their work with the

Black AIDS Institute. In an interview with NBCBLK, they talk about the importance of getting involved today and every day. The full video is worth a watch, but a key point is when Jussie discusses why health activism needs to be a part of the discussion when we talk about the value of Black lives: “If Black lives really matter, and all of us, and all of y’all really believe that Black lives matter, what does that mean to you? You can’t pick and choose when Black lives matter and when they don’t matter when it’s convenient for your own beliefs. So what does it really mean?

Does it mean that Black lives matter, but not gay Black lives?

Does it mean that Black lives matter, but not Black women?

Does it mean that Black lives matter, but not Black people that are suffering from HIV and AIDS, not Black people that feel misunderstood? No. No, no, no, no, no. You don’t get to pick and choose.

“Don’t spew that from your mouth if it is tinged with lies.

Don’t do that. Because your point is not well taken if you do not firmly have your feet planted in the ground of truly, Black lives matter.”

December 17 - December 23, 2015 • Page 3

Bigotry, hatred are ‘The Donald’s’ Trump card

By Dr. Wilmer J. Leon, III NEWS ANALYSIS “… like a lot of small towns in the Midwest, the jobs have been gone now for 25 years and nothing’s replaced them… each successive administration has said that somehow these communities are gonna regenerate and they have not. And it’s not surprising then they get bitter, they cling to guns or religion or antipathy to people who aren’t like them or anti-immigrant sentiment or anti-trade sentiment as a way to explain their frustrations.” -- Sen. Barack Obama, April 6, 2008 “A certain segment has basically been feeding a kind of xenophobia. There’s a reason why hate crimes against Hispanic people doubled last year.

If you have people like Lou Dobbs and Rush Limbaugh ginning things up, it’s not surprising that would happen.” -Sen. Barack Obama, May 22, 2008 When former Sen. Obama made these statements in 2008 he was castigated. Hilary Clinton said, “I was taken aback by the demeaning remarks Senator Obama made about people in small-town America… His re-

In spite of these racist, bigoted, xenophobic statements, Donald Trump not only remains the Republican frontrunner, his numbers are on the rise. marks are elitist and out of touch.”

Likewise, Sen. John McCain said, “Barack Obama’s elitism allows him to believe that the American traditions that have contributed to the identity and greatness of this country are actually just frustrations and bitterness…”

Based upon the most recent remarks made by Donald Trump and the support he continues to receive, Sen. Obama was absolutely right if not prophetic. In the wake of the San Bernardino, Calif. shootings

Trump’s campaign released the following statement, “Donald J. Trump is calling for a total and complete shutdown of Muslims entering the United States until our country’s representatives can figure out what is going on…Until we are able to determine and understand this problem and the dangerous threat it poses, our country cannot be the victims of horrendous attacks by people that believe only in Jihad, and have no sense of reason or respect for human life.”

Earlier in the campaign Trump made the following comments about Mexican immigrants who have entered the country illegally, “When Mexico sends its people, they’re not sending the best. They’re not sending you, they’re sending people that have lots of problems and they’re bringing those problems. They’re bringing drugs, they’re bringing crime. They’re rapists and some, I assume, are good people, but I speak to border guards and they’re telling us what we’re getting.”

(Read full story on www.thewestsidegazette.com)

Presidential candidate tours site of Freddie Gray’ Gray’ss death

By Cheriss May, Howard University News Service BALTIMORE, MD – On a cool, but sunny Tuesday morning, as residents waited at the bus stop and workers were busy on the reconstruction of the CVS at 2509 Pennsylvania Ave. that was burned down during Freddie Gray protests, the Rev. Jamal Bryant and a handful of community members lead presidential candidate and U.S.

Sen. Bernie Sanders on a tour of the neighborhood that erupted following Gray’s death.

The group, dwarfed by the nearly 40 media members covering the event, walked through the Sandtown-Winchester neighborhood where 25-year-old Gray had lived and protests took place even as a trial was taking place downtown for the first of six Baltimore police officers charged with Gray’s death.

Sanders, Bryant and the three others started at the corner of the burned down CVS, which was seen by millions of Americans on television as it was being looted, and made their way through about four blocks of the neighborhood.

Some residents called out their support to Sanders and also called for better public housing conditions.

Sanders remarked on the dearth of restaurants and groce

-ries in the neighborhood.

“It probably costs more to eat here,” he said. “What are you supposed to feed your kids, potato chips? The point being it is very expensive to be poor.”

After the tour, the group returned to the Freddie Gray Empowerment Center, located blocks from the courtroom where a trial is underway, for a roundtable discussion with Sanders to be followed by a press conference.

Wishing everyone a Happy, Healthy and Safe Holiday Season

Sen. Bernie Sanders with Rev. Jamal Bryant (r) on a walking tour of the Sandtown-Winchester neighborhood in Baltimore.

(Photos by Cheriss May, Howard University News Service)

Page 4 • December 17 - December 23, 2015

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Community Digest

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

Toy Drive

Tyga’ Bryant presents “October in December” Holiday Social/Toy Drive, Friday, Dec. 18, 2015 at 2161 N.W. 19 St., Fort Lauderdale, Fla. We are fundraising and collecting items needed for various organization for kids that’s been affected by cancer such as the Chris Evert Broward Health Children’s Hospital. If you would like to make arrangements to have your donations picked up please call (954) 661-9100 or (305) 215-7199 or go to TYGAB.COM and click on donation

Ball

The Greater Caribbean American Cultural Coalition & Premier Group continues its tradition of excellence and elegance with its 25th Annual Black and White Ball, Dec. 19, 2015 at 8 p.m., at the Woodlands Country Club in Tamarac.

Since its inception, the Black and White Ball has contributed tens of thousands of dollars to various South Florida charities, including the United Negro College Fund and Florida Memorial University. The 2015 Unsung Community Honorees are: Mr. John Ruffin – Local Businessman and Philanthropist, Dr. Celia Earle – First Woman Governor for Kiwanis International, John T. Hodgson – Radio Personality, Carlton Golding –Cleve Osborne – Radio Personality/Educator, Michael Aitcheson – Radio Personality, Mr. & Mrs. Dalton Lindo –Mr. Peter Webley – Caribbean Today Newspaper and Saints Netball Club.

For additional info call (954) 494-7596 or (954) 486-0818.

Musical

New Seventy Ninth Street Word Church Int’l presents A Christmas Musical “Thanks You”, Friday, Dec. 18, 2015 at 7 p.m., at 2275 N.W. 79 St., Miami, Fla. Dr. Robert L. Young, Sr., pastor. For cost and additional info call pastor Patrice Elmore at (786) 7185399.

Workshop

Jessie Trice Community Health Center and the Jessie Trice Community Health Foundation will host their 12th Annual Santa’s Workshop, Friday, Dec. 18, 2015 at 3 p.m., the JTCHC Main Center, 5361 N.W. 54 St., Miami, Fla. Free and open to the public. For more info call (305) 637-6400.

Happenings at African-American Research Library and Cultural Center

· Community Healing is Kwanzaa theme at AARLCC; vendors needed Saturday, Dec. 26, 2015 from 10 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. Local artist, Nzingah – Sankofa’s Child. Activities being planned for Kwanzaa 2015: Yoga; Gift Making; Healthy Eating; Tra-ditional Dance; Mental Health Panel; Vision Board Workshop; DIY Healing Salve with Jaqs Organics. For more info call (954) 357-6210. · AARLCC Small Business Resource Center presents The Art of Marketing, Monday, Dec. 21, 2015 from 6 to 7 p.m. For additional info call (954) 357-6170.

TO HAVE YOUR COMMUNITYEVENTS POSTED PLEASE CALL -- (954) 525-1489 FOR MORE INFO FAX -(954) 525-1861 OR EMAIL: wgproof@thewestsidegazette.com

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

Call for more info call (954) 525-1489

Multicultural Holiday Celebrations at Broward County Library

-Wednesday, December 16 Create Holiday Decorations, 6:30 to 7:30 p.m., Carver Ranches Library, 4735 S.W. 18 St., West Park, Fla. For more info call (954) 357-6245 -December 16 - Celebrate the Season: Multicultural Holiday Story Time & Crafts, all ages, 6 to 7 p.m., Pembroke Pines Library, 955 N.W. 129 Ave., Pembroke Pines, Fla. For more info call (954) 357-6750 -Wednesday, Dec. 16 Family Night Storytime: The Polar Express Pajama Night.

All aboard for this classic story, hot chocolate and a surprise gift. Also, special tours of the Florida Citrus Model Train Exhibit. All ages, wear pajamas!

6:30 to 7:30 p.m., Southwest Regional Library, 16835 Sheridan St., Pembroke Pines, Fla. For more info call (954) 3576580 -Saturday, Dec. 19 - Annual Holiday Ornament Workshop: Create unique holiday ornaments out of recycled materials, ages 5 and up, 11 a.m., preregister at (954) 357-8585, Young At Art Museum/Broward County Library, 751 S.W. 121 Ave., Davie, Fla. For more info call (954) 357-5437 -Monday, Dec. 21 - Winter Holiday Story Time for Children, 2 to 3 p.m., Carver Ranches Library, 4735 S.W. 18 St., West Park, Fla. For more info call (954) 357-6245 -Wednesday, Dec. 23 Winter Holiday Crafts for Teens, 2 to 3 p.m., Carver Ranches Library, 4735 S.W. 18 St., West Park, Fla. For more info call (954) 357-6245 -Saturday, Dec. 26 - Family Kwanzaa Celebration: A Focus on Self-determination (Kujichagulia) - to define ourselves, name ourselves, create for ourselves and speak for ourselves, 10 a.m. to 6 p.m., AfricanAmerican Research Library and Cultural Center, 2650 Sistrunk Blvd., Fort Lauderdale, Fla. For more info (954) 357-6282

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Happening at the Fort Lauderdale Historical Society

Fort Lauderdale Historical Society Bringing History to Life, 2015-2016 Calendar. All exhibits, events and lectures take place at the New River Inn Museum of History, 231 S.W. Second Ave., Fort Lauderdale, Fla. For time and additional info call (954) 463-4431 or www.flhc.org info@flhc.org Events * Sunday, Jan. 24 - (Native American History Month) Lecture Series * Monday, Jan. 11 - Governor Broward & His Legacy

Happy Holidays To Your Family From Our Family Westside Gazette Have A Safe & Wonderful Holiday Season

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Sunrise, FL Garage Sale! Designer clothing for women, men, and children, antique home accessories, designers shoes and handbags and so much more!

This is a garage sale you don’t want to miss.

Everything must go! Don’t miss it!

Saturday, Dec. 19, 2015 from 8 a.m.to 1 p.m.

We will also have hot dogs, chips, and soda for $2 along with delicious red candy apples for $1, flavored popcorn for $2 and Bahamian style conch salad starting at $5.

2611 N.W. 87 Lane, Sunrise, FL 33322

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December 17 - December 23, 2015 • Page 5 Westside Gazette Departmen estiga ting r acial pr actices b y Chicago police Departmentt o off Justice inv investiga estigating racial practices by

By Hazel Trice Edney (TriceEdneyWire.com) Attorney General Loretta Lynch announced this week that she will launch a “pattern or practice” investigation into whether the Chicago Police Department has engaged in racially discriminatory conduct in arrests, use of force, and other police procedures.

“Today, I am here to announce that the Department of Justice has opened an investigation into whether the Chicago Police Department has engaged in a pattern or practice of violations of the constitution or federal law,” Lynch announced at a press conference Monday.

“Specifically, we will examine a number of issues related to the Chicago Police Department’s use of force, including its use of deadly force, racial/ethnic disparities in its use of force, and its accountability mechanisms such as its disciplinary actions and its allegations of misconduct. This investigation has been requested by a number of state and local officials and community leaders, but has been opened only after preliminary review and careful consideration of how the Justice Department can best use our tools and our resources to meet Chic-

Announcement wins applause from Congressional Black Caucus ago’s needs.”

The announcement received widespread applause in the national civil rights community, seeing the move as a signal for justice in long suffering Black communities across the country.

“The Congressional Black Caucus has asserted for years that African Americans are treated unfairly and disproportionally in the criminal justice system,” Congressional Black Caucus Chairman G. K. Butterfield, in a statement. “The multiple shooting incidents involving police in Chicago and across the country serve as further proof that bias and excessive use of force by law enforcement are real in the African American community.”

Butterfield said Chicago Rep. Bobby L. Rush, just last week, sent a letter to Attorney General Lynch, requesting the investigation. “These incidents are not isolated and reflect a pervasive pattern of racial bias in policing,” Butterfield said.

The announcement from Lynch comes amidst the latest national outrage and protests pertaining to a police shooting.

Chicago teen, 17-year-old Laquan McDonald was shot 16 times by Chicago police officer

President Obama & 94-year-old (Cont'd from FP) In 1988 the US Government sought to compensate for this taint by paying $20,000 and apologizing to each of the hundreds of thousands of American citizens who were removed from their homes and interned during WWII, solely because of their Japanese ancestry. Subsequently the camps were designated by Congress to be protected as parks and a cautionary tale.

The words “fascism” and “Hitler” are becoming a drumbeat in our national conversation, with one candidate drawing direct comparison.

Ranger Soskin is among the few Americans today who have direct experience with the hellishness represented by Rosie the Riveter WWII Home Front National Historical Park to see and hear her.

President Obama left the climate talks in Paris where arguably the future of mankind was being determined, to be part of the 93-year-old tradition of lighting the Christmas tree. I imagine him filled with the anticipation of a schoolboy at the thought of meeting the real life park ranger who is older than the tradition by a year; who in-

tegrated the shipbuilding workforce in Richmond, California when women built the ships that helped win WWII; who helped develop the park that contains the artifacts of her work and today gives tours from memory to visitors from all over the world.

After their embrace the President expressed his appreciation for Betty and her great-grandmother’s service. Then he quipped, “I want tips on how I can look that good at 94.”

“What sets us Americans apart is that we do not merely declare for liberty. We staunchly stand for it. To be an American is not only to know that you are born free, it is to have the courage to defend your freedom,” says one interpretation of the Declaration of Independence.

All Americans need to defend our freedoms. Too many people are telling me, “I just want to get away from the hate,” instead of organizing to confront it. It’s our responsibility to keep the light shining and a democracy in which we continue to progress to greater equality and justice.

We cannot let the investment of Ranger Soskin’s great-great grandmother and all our ancestors go down in infamy.

Gloria Hayes Richardson: Leader of the Cambridge Nonviolent Action Committee (CNAC) G loria Hayes Richardson was born on May 6, 1922 in Baltimore, Md. She moved with her parents John and Mabel Hayes during the Great Depression to Cambridge, Md. Her grandfather, Herbert M. St. Clair, was one of the town’s wealthiest men in town. Her grandfather owned numerous properties in the city’s Second Ward which included: a funeral parlor, grocery store and butcher shop. Richardson grew up very privileged.

Richardson attended Howard University in Washington at the age of 16, and graduated in 1942 with In 1867, the citizens of Trappe, Talbot County, Md. a degree in sociology. After created an annual celebration of “The Howard, she worked as a civil servant for the federal Emancipation of the Procl... government in World War II-era Washington, D.C., but she returned to Cambridge after the war. Even though Richardson’s family was well-known throughout the community, the Maryland Department of Social Services refused to hire Gloria, or any other #Black social workers.

During the Civil Rights Movement, the Freedom Riders arrived in Cambridge in 1961. By this time the town was deeply segregated, and almost half of the African-American population was unemployed.

Richardson was married and had been raising her children for 13 years. Her teenage daughter became involved with the Student Nonviolent Coordinating Committee (SNCC) in an effort to desegregate public accommodations and facilities.

The SNCC-led protests failed in 1962, and when this happened, the parents banned together and created the Cambridge Nonviolent Action Committee (CNAC). The organization became the only adult-led SNCC affiliate in the Civil Rights Movement history. Richardson was selected to lead the CNAC, and they soon added to their grievances: housing, inadequate health care, and employment discrimination.

Richardson and her group refused to commit to non-violence as a philosophy. For this reason their protests were far more violent and very confrontational. In 1963, protests from the CNAC were so bad that Maryland Governor J. Millard Tawes sent in the Maryland National Guard. The Guard had to remain in the city for almost a year. Richardson resigned from the CNAC in 1964 because she had grown weary and exhausted. She later moved to New York City, and maintained ties with Cambridge, but never moved back.

Jason Van Dyke more than a year ago. Yet, Van Dyke was just arrested and charged with murder last month – after a video tape of the killing was released to the public by court order.

Chicago Mayor Rahm Emanuel announced last week that Chicago Police Superintendent Garry McCarthy had been fired after calls from protestors and civil rights leaders, including the Rev. Jesse Jackson Sr. But citizens say that others, including Cook County State’s Attorney Anita Alvarez and the mayor, should also go.

Protestors insist that a coverall took place in the killing. It has also been revealed that police reports of the incident,

claiming that McDonald tried to kill Van Dyke, were simply not true, based on the tape. McDonald was clearly walking away from the officers when he was shot 16 times.

Lynch says the Department of Justice’s investigation will look into years of practices in Chicago. She also signaled that investigations in other cities could ensue with a goal of improved police-community relations.

“The Department of Justice is committed to upholding the highest standards of law enforcement throughout the United States. Every American expects and deserves the protection of law enforcement that is affective, that is responsive,

that is respectful and most importantly – constitutional. And each day, thanks to the tireless dedication of men and women who wear the badge, citizens from coast to coast receive just that,” Lynch said. “But when community members feel that they are not receiving that kind of policing. When they feel ignored, let down or mistreated by public safety officials, there are profound consequences for the well-being of their communities. There are profound consequences for the rule of law, and for the countless law enforcement officers who strive to fulfill their duties with professionalism and integrity.”

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100 Black Men of Greater Fort Lauderdale sponsors 10th Annual Bike Drive (Cont'd from FP) “We’re extremely excited about this event because these are our kids, kids who have done well in school. Despite what others may say about them they have succeeded.”

Dennis Wright, president of 100BMOGF, outlined the purpose of the mentoring organization highlighting the efforts to help uplift the overall community by supporting students.

“The 100 Black Men of Greater Fort Lauderdale (100BMOGFL) partners with the Broward County School System because it’s important as a community to extend our resources in order to enhance the educational experiences for our youth. The 100 Bike Drive is our way of demonstrating that scholastic achievement is very important and very much appreciated. Inspiration is a key component to the success of our children and we look to be a part of that inspirat.

Robert McKenzie, vicemayor City of Fort Lauderdale and Broward County School Board Chairperson Dr. Rosalind Osgood provided their support at the event and extended well wishes to the community they serve.

“I think what the 100 Black Men does is never publicized enough. Even though they’re not looking for publicity they’ve been doing this in the community for years. Without organizations like this one there would be no events like this, so we appreciate the work that they’re doing,” said Vice-Mayor McKenzie.

“Today the 100 Black Men are doing a magnificent thing as they giveaway free bicycles to help encourage and motivate our students to continue a-

chieve academically. As we continue to do things like this to recognize our children and motivate them, they will continue to respond in a magnificent way. As the School Board Chair of Broward County, District School Board Member for District 5, I’m just honored and pleased with the 100 Black Men who work all throughout the year to make education a priority and the many things that they do from mentoring, from being guest speakers, to providing bicycles to doing things from a personal level with meeting the needs of family. So I’m just glad to have the 100 Black Men and their commitment to education where they serve our community by celebrating our

children and making things available that help our children achieve academically,” added Dr. Osgood.

The Jenkins family representing several generations came out to support eight-yearold Isaac Jenkins a third grader at Oriole Elementary in Lauderdale Lakes. The Jenkins clan included grandparents Stanley and Marcia, and his father Chris and five-year-old sister Ilana.

“My son Isaac Jenkins from Oriole Elementary was awarded a bike because of his significant achievements. He’s one of the leading students at the school in the third grade. My son wants to be a scientists and he’s always looking to improve.

Attorney General Loretta Lynch He always strives to be the best at what he does. As a dad and parent I couldn’t ask for anything else.”

The bike drive along with their annual golf tournament and scholarship luncheon are the two signature events that the 100BMOGFL holds each year as their way of giving back to the community in which it serves. These events would not be possible without the support of area businesses and other organizations from the community.

This year’s bike drive sponsors included; Avenue Executive, B & D Tile, City of Fort Lauderdale Parks & Recreation, Nova Southeastern University, Sunny.Org, Teamster Union769, and the Westside Gazette Newspaper.

Tyronne Brewster is both a sponsor and mentor of the 100BMOGF. The retired Teamster from Local 769 got involved with the golf tourna-ment several years ago and has supported the organization ever since.

“We’re one of the sponsors of the 100 Black Men of Greater Fort Lauderdale. Participating with the sponsorship of their annual golf tournament and bike drive is one of the most rewarding things I’ve ever been involved with.”

Page 6 • December 17 - December 23, 2015

Opinion

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

Today the Muslims’ rights suspended and tomorrow the Blacks

By Roger Caldwell There is a thin line between what constitutes Freedom of speech, and when speech incites actions that would bring harm to a certain group. As Donald Trump continues to create a hysterical environment with incendiary statements about religious and racial groups, the question is when is he breaking the law?

White privilege is an invisible phenomenon where you are allowed to speak from a position of power, even though you are discriminatory and divisive. Facts and laws appear to not be important, when certain Republican candidates for president take a position. In the last week Trump has used hateful and extreme rhetoric to alienate the Muslim community.

“Donald Trump is calling for a total

Decline of Black enrollment at FSU, UF troubling Dr. Edward Holifield In a Nov. 1 “My View,” Alan Levine of Florida’s Board of Governors stated the following about the selection of FAMU’s Board of Trustees: “No matter who is selected, the Board of Governors will still hold FAMU’s Board of Trustees and president accountable for the results we are seeking for the

students. The president and the board must work together to recognize this, act on it, and perform. Or the Board of Governors may have to.”

This is false. The Board of Governors could care less about the students at FAMU. The Board of Governors has saddled FAMU with unrealistic performance measures that are impossible for FAMU to fulfill. Following the Jim Crow-motivated underfunding of FAMU for decades, there can be no doubt that the objective of Rick Scott, the Florida Legislature and the Board of Governors is to force FAMU to fail.

Meanwhile, there is the steep decline of Blacks at the so-called “preeminent” University of Florida and Florida State University. The only place where Blacks are wanted at these institutions is on the athletic fields, where they risk life and limbs to generate tens of millions of dollars for the benefit of administrators, faculty, graduate facilities, libraries, professional schools, coaches and students.

At FSU, Black freshman undergraduate enrollment plummeted from 12 percent to 7 percent between the years 1995 and 2011. This represents a 42 percent decrease, as reported in the New York Times.

Blacks are 16.8 percent of the population in Florida, yet they are only 3.9 percent of the FSU tenured faculty.

Hispanics are 24.1 percent of the population in Florida, yet they are only 4 percent of the tenured faculty at FSU. At the University of Florida, Black freshman undergraduate enrollment dropped from 14 percent, or 910 students, in 2007 to 6.2 percent, or 395 students, in 2013. This represents a decrease of 56 percent.

Black undergraduate enrollment at UF fell from 10.1 percent in 2009 to 7.4 percent in 2013. This represents a 27 percent decrease, as reported in the Gainesville Sun. The precipitous fall in Black enrollment at FSU and UF can largely be attributed to former Gov. Jeb Bush, who in 2000 abolished affirmative action by executive order with a stroke of his pen. Black enrollment has never fully recovered.

(Read full story on www.thewestsidegazette.com)

Symbolism and substance

By Julianne Malveaux (TriceEdneyWire.com) - The University of Kentucky at Lexington (the flagship college), has shrouded an indoor mural that features paintings of enslaved African Americans bending to pick tobacco (maybe, or cotton) while a train full of white folks seems to appear on their backs. There are other offensive images in the painting, but in many ways the painting reflects a Kentucky reality. Yes, there was oppression. The artist captured a reality that others might not find popular.

University President Eli Capilouto agreed to cover the mural so that the campus has an opportunity to discuss it.

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.

and complete shutdown of Muslims entering the United States until our country’s representatives can figure out what is going on,” a campaign press release said. Trump’s campaign added in the release that such a ban should remain in effect for a short time, and the ban would apply not just too Muslim foreigners looking to immigrate to the U.S., but also to Muslims looking to visit the U.S. as tourist.

At this time in the world’s population, there are over two billion Muslims, and it is foolish to think America is going to refuse their entrance into the country. In the United States, it is very difficult to determine the exact number of Muslims living here, but a good estimate is between four to five million. By using hateful rhetoric and spreading fear, Trump has some Americans thinking that banning Muslims from coming here is a good idea.

Trump is not just stopping with banning Muslims from coming to America, but he is also talking about developing a database for all Muslims living in the United States. Obama’s deputy national security advisor Ben Rhodes reacted to Trump’s position on Muslims as “totally contrary to our values as Americans” and pointed to

the Bill of Rights’ protection of freedom of religion, and the extraordinary contributions Muslim Americans have made to the country.

But Trump’s destructive rhetoric is energizing hate groups, and this atmosphere will lead to more violence against American Muslims, Blacks and Hispanics even if he does not win. In his announcement speech, Trump said undocumented Mexicans immigrants were bringing drugs and crime to America. There was no basis of facts in this speech, but it mobilized the Republican base, and it made all Mexicans appear to be criminals, rapist, and thugs.

At this time, Trump is focusing on the Muslims, but his destructive rhetoric can be used to attack the Black community. There are many Black organizations that are protesting the treatment of young Black men and women by the police. Trump believes that organizations such as Black Lives Matter, are un-American and they must be stopped or controlled.

It would come as no surprise, if Trump decides that groups like Black Lives Matter should be categorized as “a hate group.’’

(Read full story on www.thewestsidegazette.com)

Every time an election comes around Black voters are told how important it is to vote. They are told that the ancestors of African Americans shed blood and died so that future generations of Blacks would be able to vote.

People want us to exercise our right to vote but those same people don’t want to uphold and/or enforce the laws that protect and maintain voting rights!

Its 2015 and it seems like every state in the Union has some prohibition, some clause, some law or some organized effort to deny and decrease the number of votes cast by Blacks and other minorities.

Some people can’t vote if they have been to jail even though they have served their sentences and paid their so-called debt to society. Some people can’t vote because they don’t have a government issued identification card.

Some people can’t vote because their voting place was suddenly and probably secretly changed. Some people can’t vote even if they are registered voters because of a devilish trick called “partisanship” that, for instance, won’t let independents and Democrats vote in a Primary Election if all of the candidates are Republican.

(Read full story on www.thewestsidegazette.com)

Has our system failed our youth?

By Charles Cole III

(Read full story on www.thewestsidegazette.com)

(Read full story on www.thewestsidegazette.com)

By Marc H. Morial

While students object to the mural, Ann Rice O’Hanlon (A Kentucky University Alumni), reflected reality through her lens.

Some might argue that it was a relatively liberal lens, since it captured an enslavement that many would prefer not to talk about. I’m concerned that African American students are “offended” by our depiction in history. That which O’Hanlon has depicted is real.

Should the mural be removed? Or, should its depiction be balanced. Enslavement was real. It is history.

There is no purpose served by attempting to eliminate history. The mural might be a learning experience if a work by an African American artist, offering a different depiction of the period, would be observed in the same building, ideally perhaps in the same space. Then, the space might evolve into a space where history classes or discussion groups could grapple with the history of a state-funded university (which means Black people’s taxes) that did not admit African Americans until 1949.

I am excited that student activists are stepping up and speaking out about the racist and Confederate symbols that are woven into the very existence of our nation.

(Read full story on www.thewestsidegazette.com)

By Lucius Gantt

In other words, the police lied.

This long sought-after probe will investigate the CPD’s use of force (including deadly force), racial and other disparities in its use of force, and scrutinize the department’s ability to handle allegations of misconduct and effectively discipline rogue officers. The video of Laquan being shot repeatedly as he walked away from the police officer, and the conspiracy to conceal the truth of what happened that night with a concocted account that painted the teenage victim as an aggressor, speaks to a long-standing grievance, particularly among the city’s AfricanAmerican communities, that too many police officers believe they are above the communities and laws they are sworn to protect and serve.

Officer Jason Van Dyke, who shot 16 bullets into Laquan—many of them while he was already lying on the ground—had 18 citizen complaints filed against him, but he had never been disciplined. According to the New York Times, from 2011 to 2015, in 97 percent of citizen complaints filed, not one officer was punished.

Laquan’s unnecessary and tragic death has pushed aside the dark veil of police department unaccountability.

The investigation must usher in an era where the beams of transparency bring sweeping changes and reforms to the CPD. Enough is enough.

Lies and cover-ups in Chicago

A day after the city of Chicago released the dash-cam video showing the cold-blooded murder of 17-yearold Laquan McDonald at the hands of a Chicago Police Department officer, the Chicago Urban League, supported by the National Urban League, formally requested that the Department of Justice initiate a “pattern and practice” investigation into the CPD. Based upon the disturbingly stark difference between official police accounts of the October 2014 shooting of the Black teen and what is seen on the video, our nation’s second largest police department is now under a wideranging federal investigation that will examine whether the department engages in a pattern or practice of violations of the Constitution or federal law while policing.

Police claimed McDonald moved toward the officers just before the shooting. The video shows McDonald jogging away from the police. Police claimed McDonald continued moving toward the officers even after he fell. The video shows Van Dyke firing shots into McDonald’s motionless body. Police claimed the knife McDonald held was in the open position. State’s Attorney

The voting wrong acts

Each time I am confronted with the news of another police officer killing a Black child, I find myself bracing to digest a bevy of emotions. There is a profound sadness that is immediately followed by anger and frustration which comes from losing another brilliant life too soon. As a Black educator, there is an added layer of complexity to these emotions because I am always questioning whether the death of that child is somehow connected to some failure of a teacher or a school system that might have somehow kept that young person from being in a particular situation.

While a teacher cannot stop a bullet and will never be able to spend every moment at the side of all of their students, there is an unquestionable impact that those who teach have on the lives of the children they see in school everyday. Beyond basic elements of common sense, it has been proven that, from a psychological perspective, having Black teachers involved in the lives and instruction of Black students has a positive effect on those students and their own selfperception.

Many students in our communities come to school daily facing challenges of unspeakable magnitudes that Black educators are uniquely equipped to deal with. Black educators can often address these challenges either through relating their own similar experiences or simply by way of cultural intangibles that stretch beyond the notion of human empathy. We may not always be successful, but the one child we are able to reach may be the life we keep from becoming the next hashtag on social media.

To Be Equal

(TriceEdneyWire.com) - “Because a body of men, holding themselves accountable to nobody, ought not to be trusted by anybody.” – Thomas Paine, Rights of Man (Part One), 1791.

The Gantt Report

Anita Alvarez said the blade was closed.

Trump is not the only one

By Dr. E. Faye Williams, Esq. (TriceEdneyWire.com) - The last name I wanted to mention in my column this week or during this “Season of Peace” was Donald Trump! I consider it a travesty, especially at this time of the year, to give platform to a xenophobic, misogynistic racist! The time taken to refute the bile of hatred and intolerance he regularly spews forth only lengthens his time in the public limelight and engenders unnecessary debate and discussion of his positions. Unfortunately, I could not allow Trump’s “Ban the Muslim” comment to go unanswered and felt compelled to add my thoughts to the sentiment of the many who, rightly, condemn him.

Lest anyone forget, since his campaign began, as well as Muslims, Trump has disparaged Hispanics, women, African Americans, the physically disabled, Fox News commentators, and anyone else he assumed critiqued him harshly or asked him a question that displeased him. Unlike those who have excused him and his ardent fans, I cannot overlook his “Muslim” comments or minimize their negative impact.

From personal experiences in that

cultural/religious environment, I can assure you that few who share or understand the Muslim world-view will forget his comments. His comments have jeopardized all who represent US interests in the Muslim world.

Our diplomats, soldiers and citizens will now embody the hostile ravings of Trump and, in a region torn with violent acts, become targets of retribution. It is understandable that so many have identified the Republican position on Muslims as a “War on Islam.”

Sadly, although condemned from many circles, Trump’s comments are indicative of a larger problem facing this nation. As reprehensible as his comments were, they are only made more objectionable by the 68 percent of Republican sympathizers/selfidentified voters who continue to support Trump and the policies of exclusion he proposes.

The lukewarm criticism he has received from his fellow pre-sidential candidates is reflective of many of the veiled anti-Muslim comments they have already made during this campaign season.

(Read full story on www.thewestsidegazette.com)

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

Church Directory

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

WORSHIP SERVICES & BIBLE STUDY Sunday .................................................... 7:15 a.m. 9:00 a.m. & 11:00 a.m.

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

Wednesday Noonday Service .................................. 12:00-12:30 p.m.

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

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

Where the kingdom of God is increased through Fellowship.

Leadership, Ownership and Worship F.L.O.W. To Greatness!

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

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

Rev. Dr. Jimmie L. Brown Senior Pastor

SERVICES

SUNDAY Worship Service (Communion 1st & 3rd Sunday) ........................................................... 10 a.m.

F.A.I.T.H. Academy for Children (Spiritual Formation) K-12 ................................ 10 a.m.

TUESDAY F.A.I.T.H. Academy for Adults (Spiritual Formation) - Office Complex ...... 10:30 a.m.

WEDNESDAY Worship & Arts Ministry Rehearsals (Open Auditions) - Sanctuary .............................. 7 p.m.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Mount Calvary Baptist Church

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

Reverend Anthony Burrell, Pastor SCHEDULE OF SERVICES SUNDAY

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Email infor@mthermonftl.com

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

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

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

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

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

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

(712)432-1500 Access Code296233#

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Obituaries James C. Boyd Funeral Home FLETCHER Funeral services for the late Tommie Joyce Fletcher - 79 were held Dec. 12 at Mount Nebo Missionary Baptist Church with Pastor J.W. Key, Jr., officiating. Interment: Sunset Memorial Gardens.

HALL Funeral services for the late Baby Boy Ricko Allen Ja’Quan Hall – 16 months.

JOSEPH Funeral services for the late Loucie Joseph – 72 were held Dec. 12 at St. Clement Catholic Church with Father Robes Charles officiating.

WARREN Funeral services for the late Roderick Miguel Warren 48 were held Dec. 8 at Mount Hermon A.M.E. Church with Rev. Henry E. Green, Jr. officiating.

McWhite's Funeral Home BOONE Funeral services for the late Sarah Hillsman Boone 63 were held Dec. 12 at The Lord’s House with Bishop Joseph B. Lee, Sr. Interment: Sunset Memorial Gardens.

BROWN Funeral services for the late Loretta Brown – 70 were held Dec. 12 at Bethlehem Missionary Baptist Church with Bishop Johnson officiating. Interment: Sunset Memorial Gardens.

BURNS Funeral services for the late Brother William Burns, Jr. -72 were held Dec. 12 at Greater Faith Temple CCHUTL with Pastor Elder Randy Robertson officiating. Interment: Sunset Memorial Gardens.

CINE Funeral services for the late Master Marlon Elliot Cine were held Dec. 11 at McWhite’s Funeral Home Chapel. Interment: Sunset Memorial Gardens.

WORSHIP SERVICES Wednesday (NOON DAY PRAYER) ............................................. 12 -1 p.m.

Wednesday (PRAYER MEETING & BIBLE STUDY) .................... 645 p.m.

Sunday Worship Service ................................................................. 10 a.m.

Fifth Sunday Worhip Service ............................................................ 8 a.m.

Williams Memorial CME

St Paul United Methodist Church

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

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

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

WEEKLY SERVICES & EVENTS

145 NW 5th Ave., Dania Beach, FL 33004 (954) 922-2529

Senior Pastor

6201 NW 57 Street Tamarac, FL 33319 954-721-1232 uccfaith@bellsouth.net faithbroward.org

Rev. Dr. Ileana Bosenbark, Senior Pastor

St. Ruth Missionary Baptist Church

Dr. Marcus D. Davidson,

Faith United Church of Christ

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

December 17 - December 23, 2015 • Page 7

DAVIS Funeral services for the late Maureen Veronica Davis 58 were held Dec.12 at Lighthouse Church of God with Pastor James Ladon Alldredge officiating.

Interment: Sunset Memorial Gardens.

FLETCHER Funeral services for the late Michael Anthony Fletcher - 56 were held Dec. 13 at McWhite’s Funeral Home Chapel with Pastor Laton Smith officiating. Interment: Sunset Memorial Gardens.

SUMLIN Funeral services for the late Lula Mae Scott Sumlin –69 were held Dec. 12 at McWhite’s Funeral Home Chapel with Pastor Erma Warner officiating. Interment: Sunset Memorial Gardens.

WILKERSON Funeral services for the late Nathaniel Hawthorne Wilkerson III65 were held Dec. 12 at Hopewell Missionary Baptist Church with Rev. Robert C. Stanley officiating. Interment: Sunset Memorial Gardens.

WILLIAMS Funeral services for the late Leon Williams –62 were held Dec. 12 at McWhite’s Funeral

Rev. Cal Hopkins.

M.Div) Senior Pastor/Teacher

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

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

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

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

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

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

Legendary Black attorney succumbs to pancreatic cancer From The Dallas Examiner The Dallas Examiner and the Law Office of James C. Belt Jr. mourns the loss of Attorney James C. Belt Jr. For close to 40 years, he has served the community as a civil and criminal lawyer. He received his Bachelor of Business Administration Degree from Pan American University, Edinburg, in 1968 and went on to earn a Juris Doctorate from Thurgood Marshall School of Law at Texas Southern University in Houston in 1977. He opened his private practice in the heart of South Dallas, where he served those who needed him most.

Belt, who was also a Dallas Examiner co-publisher, sat on the board of the National Newspaper Publisher Association, the official Black Press of America and the NNPA Foundation Board. He served as more of a silent partner and advisor, but it was his support that has helped The Dallas Examiner continue to serve the community for almost 30 years.

He was the founder of the Dallas Black Criminal Bar Association – an organization of Black lawyers in the private practice of law in Dallas County.

He was a member of the National Bar Association, Texas Bar Association, J.L. Turner Legal Association and the Inns of Court.

Home Chapel with Sharon Jahoda officiating.

Roy Mizell & Kurtz Funeral Home RANDALL Funeral services for the late Eugene Randall II - 45 were held Dec.12 at Roy Mizell & Kurtz Worship Center with Pastor Apostle Jimmie L. Butler officiating.

In September, he received the Living Legends award from J.L. Turner Legal Association.

As a well-respected leader in the community and activist, he also served the community by offering his words of wisdom and years of knowledge and experience. During the early 2000s, he co-hosted Dallas Examiner Live on KNON Radio.

(Read full story on www.thewestsidegazette.com)

Page 8 • December 17 - December 23, 2015

BUSINESS

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If you care about our dollars, you should care about our businesses. Call and have your Ad placed on this page (954) 525-1489 or E-mail wgazette@thewestsidegazette.com

As the year comes to an end there will be family celebrations, travels, and delicious meals. In between the many activities we hope you will also have time to reflect. We hope you can let your thoughts wander over the year that is ending, and extend into the year that is to come. Open your heart and mind to questions only you can answer. “Where did you find joy?” “What about disappointment?” “Were there dreams that came true?”

“Dreams that were deferred?”

These are personal reflections.

They are also nonprofit reflections. Here are some additional touchstones to guide your reflections.

Conversations. In the bustle of daily activity we sometimes overlook the impact of a conversation. Was there someone you talked with this year who “opened the door” for you?

Did he or she introduce you to a new partner? Facilitate new opportunities for the children you serve? Perhaps there was a conversation that led to a new way to engage advocates and policy makers? What about the conferences and meetings you

attended?

Were you exposed to a new idea that you brought back to your nonprofit and began to implement?

Challenges. When you experienced challenges this year, how did you grow? If there were budget cuts were you able to reorganize your staff or programs in a new way? Were you able to create new partnerships or to consider a merger? If you lost a key staff person or board member were you able to look at your work culture and board configuration, and regroup in a positive way?

Successes. Did you receive funding for a new program, and during the process of implementation uncover challenges you hadn’t anticipated? Did you find a better way to implement your program once you began the actual work? Were you embraced by new donors or sponsors?

Bigger Questions. We hope you will find time to reflect on the bigger questions as well. These include “what could we do differently?” “Are we truly meeting our goals?” “Have we

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Sometimes these get lost in the daily rush. We don’t have time to step back and think about “the big picture.”

We hope you will have a few days off, with unstructured time to allow your creativity and intuition to guide your reflections and help you prepare for 2016.

We will think of you – our readers – throughout the holi-

day season. We look forward to sharing 2016 with you, offering suggestions that may help guide your way.

Copyright 2015– Mel and Pearl Shaw Mel and Pearl Shaw wish you a joyous holiday season.

For more reflections and suggestions visit www.saadandshaw.com

December 17 - December 23, 2015 • Page 9 Westside Gazette The Miami Dolphins visit children at Baptist Hospital Miami Heat: Do the Miami Heat have a Hassan Whiteside problem? league. However for as tall as

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There are many ways to make someone’s day. For some it could be just a smile, to others a compliment, and to some even hugs. For the Miami Dolphins, they made an entire children’s hospital happy just because they took time out of their day to visit people who needed the most sunshine in the midst of the rain. They say that it takes a village to raise a child, and to the children inside of the hospital they too realized that it was more than just their family, the hospital staff, and the doctors that cared about their wellbeing.

Fins help brighten the day at Baptist Children’s Hospital

By D’Joumbarey A. Moreau “His name is Damon.”

With those four words, the entire hospital floor at Baptist Children’s Hospital in South Miami fell in love with the cutest 11-year-old baby boy sitting in a stroller with his abuelita standing right beside him. It was there baby Damon would chuckle and smile with his official Miami Dolphins bib on as he looked at all of the people who were in front of him. During a time where Miami Dolphins football players, cheerleaders, and even the mascot T.D. were in attendance, baby Damon left as the headliner of the show.

His abuelita was a nice woman herself as she spoke candidly about Damon’s medical condition. The moment lit up a room on a stormy after-noon in Kendall. So stormy if a sunroof

were open it would flood the inside of a car. It was there inside of that hospital floor during a dark time outside, there was sunlight indoors.

“I think it means a lot to them. Just to give them a little bit more hope, I think is really important,” said Dolphins Place Kicker Andrew Franks. “It’s a really huge factor in their way to get healthy again is to have hope in themselves. Just to have high spirits….They’ve been in the hospital for a couple days, maybe a couple weeks and just to sort of distract them is a huge factor….I think our platform, I think this is what this is sort of meant for is to really give back to help out to people that are having a hard time, not as fortunate as we are right now. So I think it’s a great opportunity for us to give back to the community,” said Franks.

Miami Heat: Thank you, Mario Chalmers

By D’Joumbarey A. Moreau 30.

That’s the number of days that have passed since the Miami Heat traded away one of their former players, point guard Mario Chalmers, away to the Memphis Grizzlies.

It’s only 30 days since but we would be short-changing ourselves if we didn’t say this, “Thank You, Mario Chalmers.”

A fan favorite in the magic city, Chalmers was one of the players that you loved to see perform because he normally made the most timely shots in games. Chalmers played in

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.

Dec. 3, 10, 17, 24, 31, 2015 IN THE CIRCUIT COURT OF THE SEVENTEENTH JUDICIAL CIRCUIT, IN AND FOR BROWARD COUNTY, FLORIDA CASE NO: FMCE 15-13154 DIVISION: 33 ORRETTE SHAWN FLOWERS, Petitioner and LORI-ANN DACOSTA, Respondent

NOTICE OF ACTION FOR DISSOLUTION OF MARRIAGE (NO CHILD OR FINANCIAL SUPPORT) TO: LORI-ANN DACOSTA Respondent's last known address 6613 Pebble Beach, North Lauderdale, FL 33068 YOU ARE NOTIFIED that an action for dissolution of marriage has been filed against you and you are required to serve a copy of your written defenses, if any, to it on Orrette Shaen Flowers whose address is 6613 Pebble Beach North Lauderdale, FL 33068 on or before January14, 2016 and file the original with the clerk of this Court at 201 Southeast Sixth St., Fort Lauderdale, Floirda 33301 before service on Petitioner or immediately thereafter. If you fail to do so, a default may be entered against you for the relief demanded in the petition.

Dated November 30, 2015 HOWARD C. FORMAN As Clerk of the Circuit Court Edna Edmond, Deputy Clerk Dec. 3, 10, 17, 24, 31, 2015

Miami with a heart of a champion long before he was crowned one. A true defensive pest, Chalmers would often bait his defenders into taking ill-advised shots because he would trash talk his opponent.

Better yet, Chalmers was the person who would take more gambles in the backcourt and come away with those steals that got fans out of their seats time and time again. Before this season, Chalmers was averaging 1.5 steals per game during his career with Miami.

Since trading Chalmers away, Miami has put together a decent 6-3 record. However, the question is did Miami really have to trade Chalmers?

Since Chalmers has left the roster it’s been tough for Heat fans to realize that he’s not coming back.

(Read full story on www.thewestsidegazette.com)

LEGAL WANTED PRODUCTION MANAGER For skin/hair products. 2 Yrs exp & High School/GED. RESIME ONLY: MCILPACK 7614 NW 6th Ave, Boca Raton, FL 33487. Palm Beach, FL. 33487

ADMINISTRATIVE ASSISTANT WANTED I am looking for a responsible administrative assistant, position is flexible,so students and other can apply, (400$ weekly) literacy is a plus, send resume to zialarrygen034@gmail.com Each candidate must submit the following: (1) a current CV; and (2) a completed Resume Employment Application and Addendum pdf format of Application for Employment with Addendum.

TRUCK DRIVER/ FORKLIFT DRIVER Looking to hire experienced fork lift and Truck driver to haul sod &, fertilizer . Must be very reliable and have valid driver’s license. Only interested person(s) need to apply.

Call 954 739-6817 Apply today.

(Read full story on www.thewestsidegazette.com)

By D’Joumbarey A. Moreau Every opening tip-off the Miami Heat boasts a lineup of five great players. Out of those

five, players like Dwyane Wade and Chris Bosh are the most accomplished and their merit as players are taller than most grizzled veterans around the

their accomplishments stack up as players, there’s one player in the starting lineup who’s tall stature can help add to their resume, Hassan Whiteside.

Before the opening tip-off of games, you can see a chiseled 7’0 265 pound of a gargantuan man stand at center court where the Heat logo is placed and intimidate the other five players opposing him. Whiteside is just getting started as an NBA player and in his first year as a fulltime starter, he’s putting up awesome numbers across the board.

(Read full story on www.thewestsidegazette.com)

Page 10 • December 17 - December 23, 2015

Westside Gazette

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marching orders Soulja Boy out of $175K in fake hoverboar d sales Just give me my hoverboard (Cont'd from FP) duct in May, 2015. They too had problems with fraud.

I guess what could be learned from all of this is if you want

to open an online store, stay away from selling hover-boards lest you go deep into debt. Just sayin’.

Playing the ‘Trump’ Card: Embattled Virginia pastor says he will endorse the Republican Candidate after clergy meeting Omarosa Manigault said apologies from Trump would not be “Trumpesque”

By Joey Matthews Special to the Trice Edney News Wire from the Richmond Free Press

By Evette Champion Soulja Boy wrote an email to Stripe, the online payment processing company, because he was alarmed by the huge negative balance on his account.

The account was used to process payments for his brand of twowheeled self-balancing boards aptly named “Souljaboards” which he sold on his online store for $1,500 apiece.

“I need help all the payments are fraud,” Soulja Boy wrote.

“And it sent my account to negative because they all say they weren’t authorized. Please help in any way you can thanks. I don’t want to have to pay all this money because of frauds.

Is there any way to reverse these payments and get my account to Good standing?”

Apparently, the email is the result of a three-month long struggle between the rapper and Stripe. According to BuzzFeed News, the online purchase of these hoverboards is pretty common and it isn’t just limited to Souljaboards. In fact, almost three-quarters of all hoverboards purchased online will result in a chargeback.

The problem has gotten so bad that Stripe is considering suing its users to recoup funds, as stated in postmortem (a sixpage document that’s unsigned and it outlines “Remediation” and “Next Steps”).

“We need to be willing to file a lawsuit,” the postmortem reads. “At what point are we actually willing to file a lawsuit?

There’s a reputation/PR issue here since we still would be suing a user.”

Right now, Soulja Boy is out at least $175,000 because of the fraudulent credit card purchases that have been made on his online store.

The rapper isn’t the only one who is out a boat load of money due to fraud. IO Hawk, a popular hoverboard brand in the US, is $900,000 in the hole with Stripe due to fraudulent hover-board purchases. In documentation provided by Stripe, John Soibatian, the president of IO Hawk, registered a GoDaddy page in November 2014 with the intent to sell hoverboards. Orders for the boards went through the roof after an episode of the Today Show featured the pro-

(TriceEdneyWire.com) Stephen A. Parson Sr., the embattled senior pastor at the Richmond Christian Center who is on leave as his South Side church tries to emerge from Chapter 11 bankruptcy, was among a contingent of 100 African-American ministers who met with Republican presidential front-runner Donald Trump at Trump Plaza in New York City.

Pastor Parson, a longtime Republican, is endorsing Trump. He also told the Free Press he is leading a group of African-American and Latino ministers who are supporting Trump’s candidacy. He said that his work with the Virginia Black and Latino Leaders Coalition is being done on a voluntary basis and that he is not being paid to lead the group.

The Free Press contacted the Trump campaign to confirm that, but received no reply by press time, Dec. 2.

“As a billionaire businessman, [Trump] knows how to create wealth, and he can help bring much-needed jobs to African-Americans who are struggling for economic security in the inner city,” Pastor Parson said of his backing of Trump during a phone interview Dec. 1 after the New York meeting concluded.

Parson appeared last week in an interview with Roland Martin, host of TV One’s NewsOne Now, where he

PARSON struggled to identify specific policies that Trump had provided at the meeting that would bring more jobs to AfricanAmericans, address educational inequities or improve relations with police in the light of the continued killings of AfricanAmericans by white police officers.

Pastor Parson and Richmond Christian Center, the church he founded in 1983, have undergone financial troubles tied to the church’s bankruptcy that began in 2013.

Earlier this year, Parson was forced off the board of trustees and required to cede control of the church’s checkbook as a court-appointed trustee sought to help the church survive. His pay as pastor was cut off, and the court-appointed trustee also sued him in trying to recover funds the trustee alleged that Parson misspent.

(Read full story on www.thewestsidegazette.com)

Just like the instructions labeled on clothes for proper cleaning – you wouldn’t wash your mink stole in your home washer would you? Or would you use a straightening comb on your weave? I didn’t think so.

I’ve learned a few things about interacting with people who are experiencing moments of separations that snatch them from reality into the reality of “it can happen to you.”

You learn a lot from what is real and what is make believe when you are trying to comfort someone who is bereaved, homeless, addicted to drugs/alcohol and trying to live with diseases that have stigmas attached to them other than death.

We KNOW that some of these life consuming battles are self-imposed; never-the-less because we feel and see the agony we want to help (for those who truly do). Therefore we dive right in head first, not realizing the depth of waters in which people are treading. We risk the chance of doing bodily harm to them and to ourselves.

I’ve heard several stories of people drowning, knowing fully well they cannot swim yet the overwhelming urge to save another consumes their total being so they jump right in.

Now when we make a decision to help, shouldn’t this thought process include guidance from a reliable source with a strategy?

Life is precious and when we make an honest effort to influence it, we need to be well assured that we have concerted more than one possible outcome and to insure that the outcome is the best one possible for the situation.

How then can we begin the process of identifying what steps should be taken place?

1. We address the situation ASAP (Always Say A Prayer) 2. We then consult the BIBLE (Basic Instructions Before Leaving Earth) 3. Then we PUSH (Pray Until Something Happens) We do understand that faith comes from hearing, and hearing by the word of Christ. No matter how we may wish that things change there has to be something done: For just as the body without the spirit is dead, so also faith without works is dead.

James 2:26 Lord teach us to obey Your Word that it will show in our assigned service commanded by You. WHEN GOD GIVES US OUR MARCHING ORDERS THE MISSION HAS BEEN ASSIGNED

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Westside Gazette

December 17 - December 23, 2015 • Page 11

Most Broward high schools changing class schedules Broward County high schools to revert to block scheduling

By Brittany Shammas, Sun Sentinel Instead of seven short course periods each day, students at most Broward County high schools will soon have longer classes that meet every other day.

Teachers at 21 of the district’s 30 traditional high schools chose the new schedule over currently required seven-period days. It means students will take four classes one day and four different classes the next, with one of the eight set aside as a study hall.

The change extends the length of each class – and teachers’ daily planning time – from 50 to 90 minutes. It goes into effect next school year and will continue in 2017-18.

The option is meant to relieve the heavy workload carried by teachers since 2012, when the district mandated seven-period schedules to help meet class size requirements.

That mandate has instructors teaching six classes each day; the new schedules have them teaching six classes over two days.

“From the teachers’ standpoint, they felt that they were just always going at a fast pace,” said Alan Strauss, a director in the district’s Office of School Performance & Accountability. “So we heard that, and just teachers saying they felt beat down, worn down at the end of each day.”

Faculty at each school voted on which schedule to adopt.

Changes required a two-thirds majority with 80 percent of faculty present.

Teachers at eight schools – Deerfield Beach, Dillard, Hallandale, Lauderhill 6-12, Miramar, South Plantation, Stoneman and Stranahan – decided to maintain the seven-period schedules. Those at a ninth, Boyd Anderson, picked an option in which there are three 100-minute block periods and one 50-minute period each day and block periods meet every other day.

Some teachers raised concerns about a loss of instructional time – about 700 minutes over the course of the year.

Strauss acknowledged that, but said the teacher, not the way the time is bundled, makes the ultimate difference in student learning.

In the past, committees comprised of teachers, parents, students and community members were involved in votes to change schedules, but teacher contracts no longer require that. Still, Strauss said school communities were part of the conversation.

Linda Gaynor, a mother of two daughters at Coral Glades High, said she saw the pros and cons on both sides.

“I know that some kids might find a longer class period harder to handle,” said Gaynor, secretary of the school’s Parent Teacher Student Organization.

“But at the same time, I absolutely understand the argument about how with a longer class period you can get more done. I know the teachers talk about how by the time they get set up and get into the lesson, it’s time to pack up again.”

Gregory Rhinehart, a Spanish teacher at Hollywood Hills High, said that was especially true for his classes.

“In language learning, the goal is to talk to your peers as much as you can and be exposed to the language as much as you can,” he said. “You just can’t get anything done in 50 minutes.”

The new schedules should also make it easier for students to manage their workloads, Strauss said. They’ll have to get through homework for four classes a day instead of seven, and they’ll have more time to get work done during the study hall, which the district is calling a “personalization period.”

Erica Kenick was on a block schedule years ago as a student at Cypress Bay High. Now an English teacher at the school, she said she’s looking forward to the change.

“I think overall it’s going to afford the students more time to complete assignments and it’ll be less overwhelming,” she said.

“The chief complaint I hear from my students is, ‘We don’t have enough time.’” bshammas@sunsentinel.com, (954) 356-4528 or Twitter @britsham

FABOM celebrates decade of service; gears up 2016 agenda

Attention Medicare Part D Members

(Cont'd from FP) The December anniversary meeting was held in the BB&T bank’s downtown office in Orlando compliments of Regional President Tony Coley and lunch was hosted by Ron Oates, executive director/CEO Boy Scouts of America Central Florida Council. Oates shared the need for a stronger presence of the Boy Scouts in the Black community and for a relationship with the Black Press. “We are doing some great things in the ‘Hood’, however we do not have a relationship with the press that covers these areas,” stated Oates. “We hope that today that will change,” he continued. Most of the publishers were Boy Scouts and understood the important value of the youth organization and committed to supporting an awareness program.

African Americans make up 16 percent of the Florida population. FABOM has been the eyes, ears and voice of African American Floridians in a variety of ways. It has held forums with Florida gubernatorial, legislative, US Senate and Cabinet officers to get answers on issues of major importance to the community. It plans to issue a Report Card on candidates and elected officials. It is planning its February meeting in Tallahassee where they will also meet with state lawmakers, the Governor, Attorney General, Treasurer/Insurance Commissioner and Secretary of State, who is Florida’s chief elections officer.

Bishop Victor T. Curry, senior pastor/teacher of New Birth Baptist Church Cathedral of Faith International in Miami, Fla. and the president/general manager of AM 1490 WMBM, a media pillar in the community in South Florida owned by New Birth Broadcasting Corp. Inc. is the newest member of FABOM. “To have a voice that covers the entire state of Florida from a Black perspective and owned

FABOM receives a resolution from the State of Florida in 2009; l to r: Attorney General Bill McCullom, Governor Charlie Crist, CFO Alex Sink, Agriculture Commissioner Charles Bronson, President Bobby R. Henry, Sr.,Westside Gazette, VP Johnny Hunter, Tempo News, Tammy Johnson Tampa Bay Times, Gayle Andrews and Kay Andrews, Florida Sentinel Bulletin.

Save even more on your prescription co-pays at the Publix Pharmacy, a preferred pharmacy in select Medicare Part D plans.

Switching is easy. Just bring us your prescription bottles.

Stop into a Publix Pharmacy for details,

Visiting the Florida A&M University Journalism School hosted by popular Dean Jim Hawkins, (center) Ph.D., Bobby R. Henry, Sr., Kay Andrews, Dorothy Bland and Division Director, Johnny Hunter.

by Black people is a great thing.

Not only does it give balance to reporting it also gives voice to a people overlooked by mainstream media,” said Bishop Curry.

In this critical election year, FABOM is committed to keeping African American news consumers informed and educated.

“Our job is to be ready for this election year. We want the elected officials and others to know that we will insist that our constituents are not ignored or discriminated against. We know

that Black Lives Matter, and we want to make sure our quality of life is the best it can be,” said FABOM President Bobby R. Henry, Sr., publisher of the Westside Gazette in Fort Lauderdale.

FABOM members: Pensacola Voice, Capitol Outlook, Jacksonville Free Press, Florida Star, Orlando Times, Florida Sun, Metro News, Weekly Challenger, Florida Sentinel Bulletin, aribbean Today, AM 1490 WMBM and Westside Gazette

or visit publix.com/partd.

Page 12 • December 17 - December 23, 2015

www.thewestsidegazette.com

Westside Gazette

The City of Miami Gardens announces winners of 5th Annual Science & Engineering Fair ing 20 square miles. Its new city hall is the only Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design public facility in America. With over a decade of leadership under its belt, the City is filled with world-class universities, show-stopping entertainment, thriving businesses,

exceptional restaurants and shops, and best of all, caring neighborhoods that reflect unity in the community. With stellar events, like Jazz in the Gardens, the City of Miami Gardens offers fine cultural enrichment, planting seeds to meet resident needs and continuously culti-

vating possibilities.

A complete listing of all of the winners from the Science and Engineering Fair Awards Ceremony is attached.

For more information, contact Bernadette Morris at Sonshine Communications at (305) 948-8063.

Panel on Police Reform push for greater police accountability

Eager student ready to receive another ribbon.

This year marks the fifth year of the City of Miami Gardens’ Science and Engineering Fair and each year it gets bigger and better. Well over 300 community members, science enthusiasts and supporters came out to celebrate students and their hard work at the 5th Annual Science and Engineer-ng Fair’s awards ceremony. The event took place on Dec. 8, 2015 at the Betty T. Ferguson Recreational Complex in Miami Gardens, Fla.

By Brian Lane Florida Department of Health in Broward County The holidays bring lots of opportunities for family fun and great gatherings, with homecooked feasts, bright lights, decorations and evergreen trees in the living room. But be sure to take a few small precautions to keep your family safe during all the activity.

In the kitchen: 1. Stay in the kitchen when cooking on the stove.

2. Keep children away from the stove, hot food, hot liquids, steam and cooking splash.

3. Keep the floor clear so you don’t trip over kids, toys, pocketbooks or bags.

4. Keep knives, matches and utility lighters out of the reach of children.

5. Avoid dangling cords from an electric knife, coffee maker or other appliances over the counter within easy reach of a child.

6. Test smoke alarms.

Inside and outside the

The City of Miami Gardens’ Science and Engineering Fair is the brain trust of Councilman David Williams Jr., and has become one of the beacon projects in the community. The 2015 event was presented by the City of Miami Gardens, with generous support from St. Thomas University and the Patricia and Phillip Frost Museum of Science. Other noted sponsors include Jessie Trice Community Health Center, Inc., UAIC, Lehman Auto World, Amerigroup

house: 1. Find a freshly cut tree, as they are more resistant to catching fire. Keep it watered and away from flames.

2. Discard holiday light strings with frayed cords, cracked lamp holders or loose connections.

3. Make sure electrical items such as light strings, extension cords, spotlights, etc. are certified by UL. 4. Keep outdoor light electrical connections off the ground and away from metal objects.

Use insulated tape or plastic clips to fasten them.

5. Use an outdoor timer to switch lights on and off. Wait until 7 p.m. to avoid peak electricity hours. Turn them off when you leave home or go to bed.

6. Use only one extension cord for each need. Never string them together.

7. Don’t use your gas fireplace if the glass panel is removed, cracked or broken.

Sources: CSA International, National Fire Protection Agency

Real Solutions, FP&L, Audubon of Florida, Live Healthy Miami Gardens, North Dade Youth and Family Coalition, Early Learning Coalition, The Resource Room, The Oscar Thomas Foundation, and others.

“Each year I look forward to seeing how much creativity and passion students have placed into these projects,” says Councilman David Williams, Jr. “It is so enlightening to see such sparks of interest in science, engineering and technology, which I know will be beneficial for each of their futures.”

The top 10 winners from the Science and Engineering Fair were as follows: First Place – Leah Anderson, North Dade Center for Modern Language; Second Place – Carjae Duncombe, North Dade Center for Modern Language; Third Place – Jadel Guerrero, Carol City Elementary; Fourth Place – Vaden L. Rafael, North Dade Center for Modern Languages; Fifth Place – Madison Piner, North Dade Center for Modern Languages; Sixth Place – Derrick Larkins, Scott Lake School Elementary; Seventh Place – Peyton Joseph, Brentwood Elementary; Eighth Place – Omari Page, Hibiscus Elementary; Ninth Place – Mikavia Williams, Hibiscus Elementary; and 10th Place – Aden Sanchez, Brentwood Elementary.

Over 100 students competed for cash prizes ranging from $150-$700. Cash prizes were also awarded to parents of the top 15 finishers, courtesy of St. Thomas University. A key highlight of the event included a science presentation by the Patricia and Phillip Frost Museum of Science that wowed the audience.

With a population of over 107,000, the City of Miami Gardens is the third largest city in Miami-Dade County, cover-

Barbara Arnwine stresses the need to hold elected officials accountable.

(Courtesy/Lawyers Committee)

By Barrington M. Salmon (TriceEdneyWire.com) - It is not widely known that modern American police departments trace their origins to slave patrols and Night Watches created before the Civil War to catch enslaved Africans fleeing plantations, control the movement of Black people and protect the interests of plantation owners.

Therefore, it is no surprise that over the past 200 years, the relationship between Blacks and law enforcement in this country has often been fraught with tension, hostility and distrust.

Since the 2012 murder of unarmed 17-year-old Trayvon Martin by self-styled neighborhood watch captain George Zimmerman in Sanford, Fla. and Zimmerman’s acquittal, there has been intense national and international scrutiny, discussions and debates on policing, the unequal treatment afforded people of color by law and a criminal justice system that has often aided and abetted rogue cops who’ve been killing Black and brown people with impunity.

This was the background as a panel of experts from a range of professions and organizations spent half a day on Dec. 10 at what was billed as a town hall discussion delving into the question of police brutality and ways to bring substantive and far-reaching restructuring and transformation to a system that lurches from crisis to crisis.

“I’m a survivor of police brutality. I’ve had reconstructive surgery on my shoulders and relive that day every hour of every day,” said New York resident, poet and activist Luis Estrella. “The school-to-prison pipeline is alive and well. It’s scary to me that in six different schools where I teach, 15 or more children in each class raise their hands when I ask if they’ve been stopped by the police. The humanization of people of color needs to happen…I was assaulted and beaten by 15 cops in East New York. If we’re not seen as humans, where do our rights come in?”

Estrella, a realtor and success coach to high school and college students, said demilitarization police forces nationally is critical. He also advocated for greater monitoring by the public of police activity, the centralization of voting power and cited the need for more people of color to buy land, homes and property.

The town hall, monitored by Janaye Graham, executive director of the National Action Network, took place in the Moot Court Room of the David A. Clarke School of Law on the campus of the University of the District of Columbia. It was a response to a clear state of emergency in poor Black communi-

ties, where repeated up-risings have taken place over unjustified killings by police.

“Accountability isn’t coming from the government or external communities and community policing the way it’s practiced is a façade. We have to take action, do what it takes to make positive change,” Estrella said.

L. Dara Baldwin, a senior policy analyst with the National

Disabilities Rights Network, was adamant about the need to strategically elect people who will make fair policies.

“We have to vote for people who think like us,” Baldwin said. “I work on ‘The Hill’ with people who have no clue.”

Civil rights expert Barbara Arnwine, founder and president of the Transformative Justice Coalition, agreed.

(Read full story on www.thewestsidegazette.com)

Black businesses we’re supporting during the holidays

Mae B collection.

By Nneka Samuel, madamnoire.com Numerous online guides hip you to a host of Black-owned businesses you can support this holiday season and beyond.

Whether you’re in need of holiday cards, or you’re shopping for family, friends or co-workers, here are a few businesses you may not have heard of that deserve your business.

Jolie Bloom The brainchild of Jhéanell Adams, Jolie Bloom’s handmade goodies, made with nontoxic ingredients, are “soulful, fly and luxurious.” The coffee sugar scrub is to die for – the perfect gift for a woman in need of a little pampering.

Mehalina Jewels Unique, colorful, handmade jewelry is Michelle Kopacz’s (@mehalinajewels) specialty.

Made for every occasion –weddings, parties, etc. – they make perfect party favors or additions to your jewelry collection. And the pieces are available at affordable prices.

Kimble Hair You know celebrity hair stylist Kim Kimble from the hit show L.A. Hair, but did you know she has her own line of hair care products? K2 Beauty, Kimble Beauty, and HairDrobe products will leave your loved one feeling like one of the stars Kimble works with.

Whitaker’s Gourmet If fruit cake is your jam, Whitaker’s should be your choice. Their RUMFRU Delight cake is moist and has just the

right amount of sweetness. A great gift for coworkers.

Stella Jean This talented HaitianItalian designer makes ethical fashion using her “wax & stripes” philo-sophy. Stella Jean’s designs re-flect her parentage and the Ethical Fashion Initiative she joined pairs marginalized arti-sans with the fashion industry at large.

Mae B Tired of those boring, traditional Christmas cards? Spice them up with this spirited collection from Mae B. The company also sells notebooks, stationary, calendars and a host of other goods.

It’s A Black Thang Christmas cards, home décor, artwork, puzzles – there’s no shortage of gifts available on this website.

Yes Lioness This company has a line of natural hair shirts that are so cool, you’ll surely want one for yourself.

Hadiiya Barbel Collections You won’t be buying crowns from this extensive collection for your Secret Santa. With hairstyles that range from wavy to curly and sleek, there’re plen-ty of options to choose from.

Ujamaa Box Give the gift of a monthly subscription to Ujamaa Box, created to encourage “economic empowerment, self-determination and financial literacy in our community.” Each “box” is equipped with affordable products from Black-owned businesses.