The Westside Gazette

Page 1

PRSRT STD U.S. POSTAGE PAID

FT. LAUDERDALE, FL 33310

PERMIT NO. 1179

FIND OUT ON PAGE 9

PAGE 9 VOL. 46 NO. 40 50¢

THURSDAY, NOVEMBER 9 - WEDNESDAY, NOVEMBER 15, 2017

LOCAL NEWS

Broward Health’s ‘independent’ probe led by law firms with undisclosed ties to Gov. Scott

Congresswoman Maxine Waters and Congresswoman Bonnie Watson-Coleman at Women’s Power Luncheon in New Jersey.

Congressional Sistas Unite At Women’s Power Luncheon and Slay Donald Trump By Eurpublisher Congresswoman Bonnie Watson-Coleman of the 12th District of New Jersey hosted her third Women’s Power Luncheon in Princeton, New Jersey at the Westin Hotel on October 31, 2017. The sold out venue was filled with women executives,

many of whom were integral in propelling Watson-Coleman from her New Jersey Assembly seat to the United States House of Representatives. “This event represents who I am, and why I ran for Congress. This room is packed with women that look like America, Read full story at www.thewestsidegazette.com

Garth Reeves keeps his fighting spirit; 98 isn’t a bad number By Byler Henry

70 years ago was a time when Black people in Dade County were banned from playing golf or going to certain beaches. Garth Reeves still remembers those times. He led the movement to get rid of these obstacles; however, he still feels the community still has much to do. Reeves is a long time editor of the Miami Times, South Florida’s premier Black newspaper. “The world is so interesting today. That’s why I wish I could live another 10 years,” “I think it’s going to be quite different from what you see now.” (Cont’d on page 3)

(Left) Broward Health General Counsel Lynn Barrett (center) Former Broward Health CEO Pauline Grant (right) Former Broward Health Commissioner Maureen Canada By Dan Christensen, FloridaBulldog.org When Broward Health General Counsel Lynn Barrett started an “independent” investigation that led to last December’s ouster of popular hospital district President/CEO Pauline Grant, the two law firms she retained to investigate and advise about Grant had deep, undisclosed ties to Gov. Rick Scott.

Officials ID shooter after he killed at least 26 in South Texas Church One of 26-year-old Devin Kelley’s victims was the 14-year-old daughter of First Baptist Church’s pastor. The man responsible for the deadly shooting at First Baptist Church in Sutherland Springs, Texas, has been identified as Devin Kelley. It’s being reported that he has killed at least 26 people — ranging in age from 5 to 72-years-old — and wounded 20, authorities say. According to the Daily Beast, here’s what we know about Kelley: Kelley, 26, was a resident of New Braunfels, a suburb of San Antonio, according to public records. Kelley was married and his motherin-law listed a P.O. Box in Sutherland Springs as a mailing address. A LinkedIn account appearing to belong to Kelley describes him as serving in the U.S. Air Force from his 2009 high-school graduation until 2013, As we previously reported, Kelley was found dead at the scene, but the circumstances around his death have yet to be revealed to the media. (Cont’d on page 3)

Black Owned Businesses Matter A M E S S A GE F ROM OU R PU BL IS H E R says Social Media guru Sunday, Monday, Tuesday,

Rochelle Davis-Cox WSG GenerationNext

Broward County, FL November 1, 2017 - Increased competition with media outlets requires new ideas, creative strategies, and an extended reach into the community according to the operator of the Westside Gazette newspaper, publisher,

Bobby R. Henry, Sr. 36-year-old Rochelle DavisCox, MAEd, has come aboard to serve as the Strategic Marketing Coordinator for the newspaper in hopes to regain the business between community and Black owned businesses. Born and raised in Broward County, Rochelle has always dreamed of bringing change to her community. She attended the University of Texas- Arlington where she earned her Bachelor of Arts in Interdisciplinary Studies; with a concentration in Urban Affairs. Not only is she the first in her family to attend and graduate college, she pressed forward and went on to obtain her Master of Arts degree in Education, specializing in Family & Community Service. (Cont’d on page 9)

LOCAL HAPPENINGS

An American Musical Celebration”

its performances of “A Civil War Christmas: An American Musical Celebration” written by Pulitzer Prize winner Paula Vogel this December 2017 at the Pompano Beach Cultural Center!

I appeal to you therefore, brethren, and beg of you in view of [all] the mercies of God, to make a decisive dedication of your bodies [presenting all your members and faculties] as a living sacrifice, holy (devoted, consecrated) and well pleasing to God, which is your reasonable (rational, intelligent) service and spiritual worship. Do not be conformed to this world (this age), [fashioned after and adapted to its external, superficial customs], but be transformed (changed) by the [entire] renewal of your mind [by its new ideals and its new attitude], so that you may prove [for yourselves] what is the good and acceptable and perfect will of God, even the thing which is good and acceptable and perfect [in His sight for you]. Romans 12:1-2 (AMP)

84°

(Cont’d on page 9)

The Westside Gazette Newspaper

Wednesday, Thursday, Friday, Saturday love

By Bobby R. Henry, Sr. To all of our veterans who live and those who die and those who never took a day off defending our freedoms, we are forever grateful for your willingness to have sleepless nights so that we may close our Thursday eyes and rest peacefully. Nov. 9TH Mostly Sunny Thank you and may God richly bless you and may Sunrise: 6:35am Sunset: 5:33pm our government take care of you better than Fri Sat Sun Mon Tues they should.

“A Civil War Christmas: Herman LeVern Jones’ TheatreSouth, recently selected as a resident theatre company at the newly built Pompano Beach Cultural Center, is excited to announce

As governor, Scott oversees Broward Health and chooses the taxing district’s governing board of commissioners. The hiring of two out-of-state law firms used by Scott suggests the inquiry was not independent and that the lawyers who investigated Grant were conflicted. “Was I aware of that? No. It wasn’t disclosed, but it should have been, of (Cont’d on page 5)

UPDATE:

@_WestsideGazett

(Cont’d on page 5)

TheWestsideGazetteNewspaper

82° 74°

82° 74°

81° 73°

80° 70°

79° 69°

WESTSIDE GAZETTE IS A MEMBER: National Newspaper Publishers Association (NNPA) Southeastern African-American Publishers Association (SAAPA) Florida Association of Black Owned Media (FABOM)


PAGE 2 • NOVEMBER 9 - NOVEMBER 15, 2017

www.thewestsidegazette.com

A Proud Paper For A Proud People

How the CHIP stalemate NNPA President Meets with Civil Rights Leaders and U.S. Mayors NNPA President joins Civil Rights leaders and U.S. Mayors for historic meeting hurts Black children A program that provides a safety net for more than 8 million children, and more than half of all Black children, has become the latest casualty in the war to repeal and replace the Affordable Care Act (ACT). The Child Health Insurance Program (CHIP) plays a critically important role in coverage for children of color, whose families are more likely than White families be low-income, according to the Kaiser Family Foundation (KFF). In September 2017, the Republican-controlled Congress missed the deadline for reauthorizing CHIP. In October, Senate Minority Leader Chuck Schumer (D-N.Y.) called on Senate Majority Leader Mitch McConnell (R-Ky.) to put the bill that would reauthorize CHIP to a vote in the U.S. Senate. “No family in New York or elsewhere should ever have to make the agonizing decision between taking their child to the doctor and footing the cost of exorbitant medical bills they cannot afford,” Schumer said in the statement. Sen. Kamala Harris (DCalif.) took to Twitter to detail the number of children who would be at risk without CHIP. KFF reported that CHIP and Medicaid cover more than half of Hispanic children (52 percent) and Black children (56 percent), compared with about one-quarter of White children (26 percent). Black children suffer from chronic diseases, including asthma, diabetes, obesity, dental disease and sickle cell anemia, at higher rates than White children, which makes the loss of CHIP coverage even more devastating for them. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention reports that Black children are twice as likely as White children to have asthma and are 10 times more likely than White children to die from complications from asthma. The impact of CHIP and expanded health-care coverage through the ACA on the lives of Black children is undeniable. According to Global Policy

By Stacy M. Brown NNPA Newswire Contributor

During a recent meeting in New York City, the National

Newspaper Publishers Association (NNPA) joined the National Urban League, the National Action Network and a group of mayors from around the coun-

try for a results-driven, inclusive economic and civil rights policy planning session. “The NNPA is finally being recognized as both a national

Broward Education Foundation inducts seven Broward County legends into 2017 Hall of Fame

The U.S. Senate, under Mitch McConnell's leadership, hasn’t seen fit to fund the Children’s Health Insurance Program – among other things. Solutions (pdf), the ACA virtually eliminated the disparity in uninsured rates between Black and White children. “Additionally, many uninsured children who were eligible for Medicaid or CHIP before the ACA gained coverage after ACA implementation because of increased awareness, outreach, and enrollment efforts,” GPS reported. Bruce Lesley, the president of First Focus, a nonprofit group that advocates for federal policies that benefit children and families, told Vox that the feud between Republicans and Democrats in Congress over the ACA has created the perfect storm for kids to lose health insurance coverage: “This is a huge mess,” he said. The children most at risk of losing CHIP coverage soon are likely those who reside in states with separate CHIP programs, which are quickly running out of funds. At least five states and the District of Columbia—Arizona, California, Minnesota, Ohio and Oregon—are predicting that they will run out of money by the end of the year or in early January 2018, according to the Georgetown University Health Policy Institute Center for Children and Families. (Cont'd on Page 9)

Ruth Lynch, Lisa Scott Founds, Shane Strum, Max Osceola, Jr., Elaine Saef, James F. Griffin II, Patrick McQuaid, Keith Koenig, Christina Fischer and Robert Runcie. FORT LAUDERDALE, FL – Broward Education Foundation inducted seven community luminaries and champions in education to its Hall of Fame at the Publix Super Markets Charities “2017 Hall of Fame Breakfast” presented by Memorial Healthcare System. The Hall of Fame honors and recognizes distinguished alumni of Broward County Public Schools. Keith Koenig, president and CEO of City Furniture, received the JM Family Enterprises Inc. Lifetime Achievement Award, honoring an alumnus who has made an indelible mark in the community. (Cont'd on Page 9)

Clover Lawrence, Christina Fischer and Shirley Baker. (Photo credit: Downtown Photo)

Dr. Benjamin F. Chavis Jr., recently met with civil rights leaders and U.S. mayors to discuss unifying around national issues. trade association of African American-owned newspapers and a national civil rights organization,” said NNPA President and CEO Dr. Benjamin F. Chavis Jr. “The First Amendment is a civil right and the NNPA is leading this dual charge across the nation.” Chavis received an invitation to the meeting from New York City Mayor Bill de Blasio to participate in the conference held at the historic Gracie Mansion. The theme of the conference was “Finding Unity Through Local Leadership: A Convening of Mayors and Civil Rights Leaders.” New Orleans Mayor Mitch Landrieu, who serves as president of the United States Conference of Mayors, joined de Blasio, Baltimore’s Mayor Catherine Pugh, Louisville’s Mayor Greg Fischer and other mayors at the daylong conference in the Big Apple. National Action Network founder Rev. Al Sharpton, National Urban League President Marc Morial, and U.S. Black Chambers, Inc., President Ronald Busby also attended the meeting. (Read full story at: www.thewestsidegazette.com)


www.thewestsidegazette.com

A Proud Paper For A Proud People

NOVEMBER 9 - NOVEMBER 15, 2017 • PAGE 3

Texans Owner Bob McNair “Inmates” Three NFL Owners asked to turn over cell phone records Comment Sparks Outrage in Kaepernick collusion case Texans Owner Bob McNair Meant Everything He Said about NFL Players

Jeffrey Boney wonders if Bob McNair, the owner of the Texans, really wants to help solve the problems that led to so many protests across the country and in the NFL. By Jeffrey Boney (Houston Forward Times/NNPA Member) Black players in the National Football League have been described as ungrateful, thugs, sons of b***hes and inmates by talking heads on sports radio, the commander-in-chief and most recently at least one NFL owner. Some current and former NFL players, including the exiled Colin Kaepernick, have decided to use their high-profile platforms to protest racism, systematic oppression and police brutality in this country and some people, including the President of the United States, just can’t handle it. Following Houston Texans owner Bob McNair’s controversial analogy, describing NFL players as ‘inmates,’ a number of Houston Texans football players completely rejected, both his written and face-toface apologies. McNair, who is now being described by many in the community as ‘Warden McNair,’ created a major controversy within the league, as well as across the country, after it was revealed in a story released by ESPN the Magazine’s Seth Wickersham and Don Van

Natta Jr., that McNair had made the shocking ‘inmate’ reference several weeks ago in a meeting with 10 other NFL owners and 13 current players. It was during that same meeting, where other NFL owners had expressed their view and thoughts about the business concerns surrounding the anthem protests, that McNair boldly said: “We can’t have the inmates running the prison.” It was only after the owners finished sharing their thoughts on the issue that former NFL player and current NFL executive Troy Vincent stood up and adamantly expressed how offended he was by McNair’s character assassination of and reference to NFL players as ‘inmates.’ According to Wickersham and Van Natta, Vincent told McNair and the other owners that in all his years of playing football in the NFL, he had “been called every name in the book, including the n-word, but never felt like an ‘inmate.’” It was also reported that McNair later pulled Vincent aside to apologize and tried to explain to him that he didn’t mean what he said in a literal sense, but the damage had already been done. The Texans, who were only a few days away from playing a road game against the Seattle Seahawks at the time the ‘inmate’ reference was reported, found themselves in crisis mode as an organization, as many Texans players planned to walk out of practice that Friday. Texans head Coach Bill O’Brien and general manager Rick Smith quickly convened a team meeting to talk the players out of leaving practice. The meeting was somewhat effective, as nearly everyone chose to stay, with the exception of a few Texans players, such as franchise wide receiver DeAndre Hopkins and rookie running back D’Onta Freeman, who still refused to practice and chose to leave in protest. (Read full story at: www.thewestsidegazette.com)

Garth Reeves keeps his fighting spirit, 98 (Cont'd from FP) Said Reeves, he was honored Friday afternoon when Miami leaders named a portion of an Overtown street after him. Reeves, publisher emeritus of the weekly newspaper that was started September 1, 1923 by his father said today’s political divisiveness reminds him of the work that was done in the 1940s and 50’s by him and others. Back then Blacks could only play on the golf course on Mondays when the sprinklers were turned on. Blacks were forced to go to Virginia Key Beach, which was known as “colored beach” because they were banned from the county’s White beaches. There was a staged protest at Crandon Park in Key Biscayne that Reeves was a part of. He and five others put on bathing suits under their business suits and swam for about 15 minutes in the water. Many Blacks started to make their way to beaches across Miami Dade after this statement. Through this action he met U.S. Supreme Court Justice Thurgood Marshall, who helped Reeves and others with their seven-year legal battle to expand golf course access. After spending four years in the army during World War II he returned home to Miami which sparked a drive to fight for change after realizing that there was much work that needs to be done. Northwest Sixth Street which houses the Historic Lyric Theatre and the Black Archives History and Research Foundation is the street that has Reeve’s name. His father Henry E.S. Reeves was a master printer from the Bahamas; he moved his family to Miami when Reeves was four months old. He initially started printing one page at a time on a small hand

press in his Miami home, because he wanted to provide information to the Black community. Garth graduated from Booker T. Washington High School in Miami and Florida A&M University, he also served in the army from 1942-1946. He started his career with the newspaper when he came back to Miami, becoming the chief executive and publisher in 1970. He held that position until 1994, his daughter Rachel Reeves was named publisher and CEO of the paper, a position she still holds. “ I used to say, I love life so much that when they call my name I’m going kicking and screaming, but now I don’t feel that way anymore,” Reeves said. “I don’t think I’ll have too many more [years] left, but 98 isn’t a bad number.” He has been fighting since he came from World War II, and that fight still remains in him. He will be 99 in February.

By Eurpublisher Dallas Cowboys owner Jerry Jones, New England Patriots owner Robert Kraft and Houston Texans owner Bob McNair, among others, will be deposed and asked to turn over all cellphone records and emails in relation to the Colin Kaepernick collusion case against the NFL, a league source told ESPN. ABC News reports that other owners to be deposed include the Seattle Seahawks’ Paul Allen and the San Francisco 49ers’ Jed York, and that all of these particular owners were selected for depositions based on their public statements about

either Kaepernick or sideline protests during the national anthem. The free-agent quarterback filed a grievance under the collective bargaining agreement alleging collusion against signing him to an NFL, his attorney, Mark Geragos, revealed in October. The filing, which demands an arbitration hearing on the matter, says the NFL and its owners “have colluded to deprive Kaepernick of employment rights in retaliation for Kaepernick’s leadership and advocacy for equality and social justice and his bringing awareness to peculiar institutions still undermining racial

NFL owners: Bob McNair (l) and Jerry Jones equality in the United States.” After filing the grievance, Kaepernick tweeted that he did so “only after pursuing every possible avenue with all NFL\

teams and their executives.” The NFLPA has offered Kaepernick its support and reiterated its readiness to assist him, “as we do all players.”

Florida Media Group meets with Orlando Mayor

opportunities for both schools”, said Mayor Dyer. The Florida Classic is estimated to produce thirty-five million dollars in economic valuation for the city of Orlando. Jim Madison, Publisher of the Florida Sun, inquired into the construction alternatives that were available for residents. Mayor Dyer answered that residents will still be able to vend and construction crews will work out of the path of the game attendees for the Classic Weekend’s duration. “It’s our hope that Orlando will continue to host this game”, said Reggie McGill, Community Relations Liaison for Mayor Dyer. The Florida Blue Florida Classic begins on the third Thursday of each November and follows with a Battle of the Bands, the game on Saturday and the concluding car show on Sunday afternoon. Founded in 1887, Florida A&M University was established as a school by Black business magnates for Black students to attend in Tallahassee. Bethune-Cookman was founded by Mary McLeod Bethune in 1901 as the Normal Negro Institute for Girls. The name was later changed to Bethune-Cookman College and later, Bethune-Cookman University. “These historic schools have a rich legacy, and combined with this city, we enrich education and commerce”, said McGill.

Members of FABOM and Orlando Mayor Buddy Dyer (third from left) By Devin Heflin ORLANDO, FL -- Historic newspapers met with Orlando Mayor Buddy Dyer to discuss the upcoming historic rivalry game of Florida A&M University and Bethune-Cookman University (B-CU) in Novem-

Officials ID shooter (Cont'd from FP) The Daily Beast also noted that a week before he committed the worst massacre at a place of worship in American history, Kelley posted a photo of an assault rifle to Facebook with the caption: “She’s a bad bitch.” The Daily Beast also reported that one of the fatalities was the pastor’s 14-year-old daughter Annabelle Pomeroy. Her father Frank Pomeroy was not at the First Baptist Church during the time of the shooting because he was out of town in Oklahoma. Pomeroy told ABC News that Annabelle “was one very beautiful special child.” At least 27 people have died after a gunman opened fire at a church in Texas during Sunday morning services. According to NBC News, a single shooter walked into the First Baptist Church in Sutherland Springs and opened fire. Sutherland Springs is in Wilson County, about 30 miles east of San Antonio. The lone shooter is believed to be dead, Wilson County Commissioner Albert Gamez Jr. told NBC. However it’s unclear if the shooter killed himself or if they were killed by police, CNN noted. The shooter’s identity has yet to be released to the media. “My heart is broken,” Gamez said. “We never think where it can happen, and it does happen. It doesn’t matter where you’re at. In a small community, real quiet and everything, and look at this, what can happen.” Several other law enforcement sources familiar with the investigation also said “as many as 15 have been injured, but that number has yet to be confirmed. According to CNN, a witness, a cashier at a gas station across the street from the church, said she heard about 20 shots being fired in quick succession while a church service was underway around 11:30 a.m. local time. Politicians have flocked to Twitter to send their condolences. “Our prayers are with all who were harmed by this evil act,” Texas Gov. Greg Abbott said in a post on Twitter. “Our thanks to law enforcement for their response

ber. The City of Orlando has hosted the Florida Classic Game since 1991. Tampa previously facilitated the game. In a meeting at Mayor Dyer’s city Hall office on Wednesday, Oct.25, Florida Association of Black Owned Media (FABOM) members discussed with city officials the importance and relevance of the game and its economic impact on the city. “The game continues to give a boost to our beautiful city”, said Mayor Dyer. Dyer also laid out transportation and safety strategies that will be implemented for this year’s Classic venue, in the aftermath of the tragedy of the Las Vegas concert shootings from early October and locally

the Pulse Nightclub shootings from June 2016. “Transportation is one of our priorities. We are going to make sure vehicles and passengers are safe and that there are no pileups of cars, which has been an issue in time past”, said Dyer. Black owned media representatives that attended Wednesday’s meeting were Devin Heflin, The Orlando Times, Jim Madison, The Florida Sun and Irene Pridgen. “The projected economic value that this game will bring, along with the specific partnerships with Florida Blue, are always necessary towards the continued development of our city. Everyone will be safe and these are positive recruitment


PAGE 4 • NOVEMBER 9 - NOVEMBER 15, 2017

www.thewestsidegazette.com

A Proud Paper For A Proud People

Local Events In The Community Publix is Proud to Support Community News WHERE SHOPPING IS A PLEASURE

Ceremony

Concert

Street Renaming Ceremony, for Runette Lamone Hill Williams on Thursday, Nov. 9, at 4 p.m., at 1595 N.W. Seventh Ave., Pompano Beach, Fla.

Event Obamacare: Learn & Enroll. Protest Cuts, sign-up for healthcare at your local event on Monday, Nov. 13 from 1:30 to 7 p.m., at Mt. Hermon AME Church, 401 N.W. Seventh Terr., Fort Lauderdale, Fla. Demand Access via National Black Healthcare Access Tour. To register:www.demandaccess.eventbrite.com

Talent Show Parkway Middle School of the Arts is having a Thanksgiving Feast and Talent Show on Wednesday, Nov. 15, from 5 to 8 p.m., at Parkway Middle School, 3600 N.W. Fifth Ct., Fort Lauderdale, Fla. For additional info contact Veronne McMain at (754) 321-1816.

The Westside Gazette Newspaper Salutes All Veterans Who Served. Happy Veterans Day

The Florida A&M University Society Chorale will present a concert at St. Anthony Catholic Church on Saturday, Nov. 11, at 7 p.m., at 901 N.E. Second St., Fort Lauderdale, Fla. These talented students from “The Hill” in Tallahassee, under the direction of composer/arranger Dr. Mark Butler, are well known for presenting choral performances that include classical, jazz, contemporary, spiritual, gospel, and multicultural styles. All are welcome to attend this free concert. Donations will be accepted to support the group.

Camps All camps are on Wednesday at 5:30 p.m. Admission is free and a light dinner is provided. There will also be raffles at each event. All parks are in the 33311 zip code of the Broward Municipal Services District in unincorporated Fort Lauderdale. Fall Semester · Wednesday, Nov.15 – Food Safety for a Healthy Holiday UF Extension Education, at Roosevelt Gardens Park, 2841 N.W. 11 St. For more info call (954) 357-8700

Book Fair

Ceremony

The City of Miramar proudly hosts its Veterans Day Ceremony on Saturday, Nov. 11 at 11 a.m., at Veterans Memorial Park, Intersection of SW 64 Ave., and SW 33 St., Miramar, Fla. For additional info call (954) 602-3011.

Touch Weekly Events

Events that TOUCH lives: · Sustainability Action Plan Public Workshop on Saturday, Nov. 18 from 9:30 to 11:30 a.m., at Foster Park, Multi-purpose Room 609 N.W. Sixth Ave., Fort Lauderdale, Fla. Interested in helping to create the next five (5) years of sustainability policies and program in the City? Residents that attend will receive free Led lightbulbs and reusable bags. · Get Up & Go – Train for a 5K starts now thru Wednesday, Feb. 15, 2018 Tuesday & Thursday, from 5:30 to 6:30 p.m., at Willie Webb Park, 3601 N.W. 21 St., Lauderdale Lakes, Fla.

Fair The Friends of Southwest Regional Library will host a book fair on Saturday, Nov. 18 from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m., at 16835 Sheridan St., Pembroke Pines, Fla. Used hardcover and paperback books for adults and children, magazine, books on CD and more. For further info call (954) 436-2176.

Seniors Prom

The 9th Annual Seniors Prom is scheduled for Saturday, Nov. 18, from 5 to 10 p.m., at the Bahia Mar Hotel and Resort, 801 Seabreeze Blvd., Fort Lauderdale Beach, Fla. Tickets are now available at MODCO, 1530 Sistrunk Blvd., Fort Lauderedale, Fla., Monday through Friday from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Must be 55 or older to attend. The Broward Citizens for Seniors, Inc., members also have tickets. For additional info sponsorship, call (954) 2888702 or (954) 303-4900. The Seniors' Prom is sponsored by the Broward Citizens for Seniors, Inc., a non-profit community organization.

Cook-Out

Carrie Meek International Business Park, Construction Vendor & Labor Opportunity * Fair on Thursday, Nov. 16, from 2 -5 p.m., at Sherbondy Village Community Center, 215 N. Perviz Ave., Opa-Locka, Fla. The event is essential for business with the following expertise: • Asphalt • Building Maintenance • Hand Rails • Concrete Landscaping • Curb & Gutter • Electrical • Fencing • Irrigation • Painting • Plumbing • Sidewalks • Signage • Underground Utilities • and much more Individuals desired on the project include: • Skilled Laorers • Local Business and Vendors • Local Subcontracting • Plus, opportunities for unskilled laborers (shoveling, clean-up etc.) Applicants must bring resumes, business cards, certificates, licenses (drivers, any construction trade licenses); admission is free. Sign up and register today. http://bit2zovycp or call Sunshine Communication at (305) 948-8063 and we’ll sign you up.

Program Piper High School class of 1977 is sponsoring a class get together cookout on Saturday, Nov. 18 from 11 a.m. to 6 p.m., at Samuel Delevoe Park, 2520 N.W. Sixth St., Fort Lauderdale, Fla. It’s been 40 years! For additional info contact Kent Marion at (954) 696-9866 or Barbara Bain at (954) 7931090.

Two neighborhood parks located in the Broward Municipal Services District (BMSD), Franklin Park and Roosevelt Gardens Park, have joined the Little Free Library program on Mondays-Fridays, from 9 a.m. to 9 p.m.; Saturdays, from 8 a.m. to 6 p.m.; Sundays, from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m., at Franklin Park, 2501 Franklin Dr., Fort Lauderdale call (954) 357-7080 - Roosevelt Gardens Park, 2841 N.W. 11 St., Fort Lauderdale, Fla. call (954) 357-8700.

Event

The City of Miramar presents In The Kitchen with Our Experts on Saturday, Nov. 18, from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m., at Miramar Community Garden, 3700 Largo Dr., Miramar, Fla. Featuring Hugh Sinclair aka Chef Irie (owner of Irie Sprice Catering Services). Space is limited and registration is required. For additional info call (786) 5963812 to register or email Program@BaptistHealth.net

Celebration Gulfstream Park, South Florida’s premier entertainment destination, will kick-off the holiday celebration on Friday, Nov. 24 from 5-10 p.m.; at 901 S. Federal Hwy. Hallandale, Fla. Symphony of Lights will continue brining holiday to the community every night from Nov. 24 through Dec. 31. From 6-11 p.m. For more info call (954) 454-7000.

AT&T Hiring for 65 Call Center Jobs in Sunrise

SUNRISE, FL — If you have a knack for great customer service and like working in a high-energy environment, AT&T wants to hear from you. We are hiring for 65 call center jobs in Sunrise. AT&T call center sales representatives learn the latest tech and share it with customers. They work with them to provide entertainment and communications products that best meets their needs. The pay range for the jobs is $10.51 to $15.86 an hour. Reps also get paid training and tuition reimbursement, so they can stay on top of their game. “There’s never been a more exciting time to work for AT&T than now,” said Joe York, AT&T Florida president. “We’re mobilizing video, securing business communications from the smartphone to the cloud, and making cars, homes, machines, even cities, smarter.” AT&T is one of the largest employers in America. We actively recruit military veterans. To apply for one of the call center jobs, go to http:// work.att.jobs/CallFlorida.

Anniversary

EDUCATION MATTERS -Every Child Deserves A Chance

Theatre South Atlanta, Inc. presents “A Civil War Christmas An American Musical Celebration” written by Paula Vogel and directed by Herman LeVern Jones on Friday, Dec. 15 thru Saturday, Dec. 23, at the Pompano Beach Cultural Center 50 W. Atlantic Blvd, Pompano Beach, Fla. For tickets and other info contact TheatreSouthO (305) 924-3003 info@theatresouth.net; www.theatresouth.net

Classical Music , Jazz, Theater & Ballet 10th Anniversary Jazz Roots at Adrienne Arsht Center for the Performing Arts, at 1300 Biscayne Blvd., Miami, Fla. · Friday, Dec. 15 – An Evening with Jon Batiste & Stay Human · Friday, Jan. 12 – Generations: Joey Alexander & Ramsey Lewis · Friday, Feb. 16 – George Benson: A Night of Breezin’ & Greatest Hits · Friday, March 2 – Gregory Porter: The Voice Of Our Time · Friday, April 20 – Cubismo! Chucho Valdes: Irakere 45 For ticket info call (305) 9496722.

Happening at African-American Research Library and Cultural Center

African-American Research Library and Cultural Center, 2650 Sis!trunk Blvd., Fort Lauderale, Fla. For more info call (954) 357-6210. On Display: Carlton B. Moore: Life and Legacy of a Public Servant Prearranged group tours available during library hours: Youth tours call (945) 357-6209 Adult tours, (954) 357-6224 * Saturday, Nov. 11 – Veteran’s Day Breakfast and Celebration, at 10 a.m. First 50 Veterans will receive a free hot breakfast and special gift that honor their courageous service to our Country. Learn about free Wi-Fi exclusively for Veterans. Limited seating, must pre-registration call (954) 3576153. * Saturday, Nov. 11 - “Library Databases” from 1 to 2:30 p.m., in the CTC using Digital Divide tablets available to residents and co-sponsored by T-Mobile & Broward Municipal Services District (BMSD). For more info call (954) 357-6228. * Monday, Nov. 13 – Business Seminar from 6 to 7:30 p.m. Social Media 101 * Saturday, Nov. 18 – First Time Homebuyer Fair, from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m., presented by National Aid Foundation. Credit Counselors will be on hand to answer questions. Limited seating, pre-register call (954) 767-8803. * Saturday, Nov. 25 – Job Searching, from 1 to 2:30 p.m., use Digital Divide tables available to residents and cosponsored by T-Mobile & Broward Municipal Services District. Learn the realities of online communication, social media networking. Must pre-register, call (954) 357-6228. Computer Classes Pre-register for free computer classes at (954) 357-6228. Due to limited seating, registration begins 6 days prior to each scheduled class. * Saturday, Nov. 11 from 10 a.m. to noon – Microsoft Excel II Youth Services Call Youth Services Department (YS) at (954) 357-6209 if you have any questions about the following programs and to pre-register in needed. Additional details provided on November YS Flyers. Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday Free Homework Help: After school help with homework for grades K-12, from 3 to 5 p.m. For more info call (954) 3576209. * Saturday, Nov. 11 – “Wags & Tales” from 2 to 3 p.m. Come and read to Augy in YS Dept. Augy is a furry four-legged friend. Call YS is your have question. *Monday, Nov. 13, 20, & 27 – “Free SAT & ACT Prep” Class sessions, which include practice tests and intensive test-taking strategies, focus on four components per subject: fundamentals, technique, recognition/reaction, and taking manipulation. Must pre-registration, if you have question call YS Dept.

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


www.thewestsidegazette.com

A Proud Paper For A Proud People

NOVEMBER 9 - NOVEMBER 15, 2017 • PAGE 5

Strangers who banded together to stop the Texas church Google fights for shooter reunite as heroes Black men to be in Tech and out of prison

By Doug Criss, CNN

On that awful Sunday morning, they were just strangers, trying to stop an act of unspeakable evil. On Monday night, they reunited as heroes, hailed for the actions they took that helped end the deadliest mass shooting in Texas history. Stephen Willeford and Johnnie Langendorff hugged each other at a vigil held for the 26 killed and more than 20 wounded in the shooting at First Baptist Church in Sutherland Springs.

When Devin Patrick Kelley opened fire inside the church on Sunday, Stephen Willeford, who lives near the church, grabbed his own gun and ran out of the house barefoot to confront the gunman. “I kept hearing the shots, one after another, very rapid shots - just ‘pop pop pop pop’ and I knew every one of those shots represented some- Stephen Willeford, right, hugs Johnnie Langendorff during a one, that it was aimed at vigil for the victims of the First Baptist Church shooting. someone, that they shots,” Willeford told CNN Willeford exchanged gunfire weren’t just random with Kelley as he started his affiliate KHBS. escape in his Ford Explorer. He spotted Johnnie Langendorff’s truck across the street and hailed him down. “I said, ‘that guy just shot up the Baptist church. We need to stop him,” Willeford told the sure that 90 percent of all HIV affiliate. patients gain access to ART by Langendorff didn’t hesitate. 2020. “I had to make sure he was That will be “enormously difcaught,” Langendorff told CNN. ficult,” said Beyrer. For one, WHO and experts “It was, ‘Do everything from the U.S. Centers for Dis- necessary to make sure that ease Control and Prevention this guy is stopped.’” acknowledged that ART effecThe men pursued the guntiveness is increasingly at risk, man for 11 miles, in a chase with HIV drug resistance havthat reached speeds of 95 mph. ing shot up from just 11 percent Kelley eventually lost control in 2001 to 29 percent today. Why? The review team noted of his truck and crashed it in a that the “Achilles’ heel” is shoddy ditch. Police found him dead, adherence to ART regimens, with gunshot wounds, one of mostly because of insufficient them self-inflicted. education and insufficient Langendorff said he had no access to the medications. Poor regrets about throwing himself adherence allows the HIV virus into such a dangerous situation. Chris Beyrer, M.D., Profes- to mutate and develop drug re- “Because that’s what you do, you chase a bad guy,” he said. sor of Public Health and Hu- sistance. To tackle the issue, the Willeford wished he could man Rights, Johns Hopkins research team advocates placing Bloomberg School of Public more focus on prevention by have gotten to the church faster to stop Kelley. Health, Baltimore, Md hastening the development of He doesn’t consider himself (HealthDay News) — The an effective vaccine and by a hero, but the county’s sheriff ratcheting up the use of TruHIV patients — are now being vada, the HIV prevention regi- disagrees. treated with ART. “What do you say to the man The United Nations and the men also known as PrEP. PrEP who stepped up when he heard combines two ART drugs World Health Organization aim to eliminate AIDS as a public (tenofovir and emtricitabine), the gunshots? I’d say he’s a health threat by the year 2030. and the CDC says it can curtail hero,” Wilson County Sheriff On the way to that goal, both HIV infection risk by as much Joe Tackitt Jr. said. “I don’t organizations want to make as 90 percent. think there’s any question about that. Had he not done (Read full story at: what he did, we could have lost www.thewestsidegazette.com) more people.”

Are HIV and AIDS poised for a comeback? Growing resistance to powerful medications cause for concern, review authors say. The advent of powerful drugs in the mid-1990s brought remarkable gains in survival for HIV patients who had access to the medications. But a team of experts now warns that the global HIV pandemic continues and is at risk of expanding, given the worrisome global rise of HIV resistance to antiretroviral (ART) medications. “Current trends in HIV drug resistance are very concerning,” said Dr. Chris Beyrer, lead author of an overview on the state of global HIV drug resistance. “Resistance levels have been found to be highest in ART-exposed infants and children,” he added. “Which is a real concern, since children are already among the least-treated age group in many developing countries.” Beyrer is professor of epidemiology with the Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health in Baltimore. He and his colleagues noted that roughly 19.5 million HIV patients — or approximately half the global population of

Sunday, Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday, Friday, Saturday love (Cont'd from FP) As I talk with friends who, like myself, are struggling with an endurance and tenacity to become more knowledgeable and receptive to God’s Word, temptations and weaknesses grow much greater and are reinforced as the weekend approaches. If I could rearrange some of the lyrics from a song written by songwriters Terry Lewis, Lii Harris and Samuel James and sung by Alexander Oneal titled - Saturday Love and apply it to my Christian walk, I would in all probability connect to my enter strength more voluntarily to overcome influences that pull me away from my walk. The verse that resonates with me says: “Never on Sunday, Mondays too soon Tuesday and Wednesday just won’t do Thursday and Friday we can begin but our Saturday love will never end.” Now my remake would be this: “Always on Sunday, Mondays too soon Tuesday and Wednesday He’s still helping me through Thursday and Friday He never says when but our Saturday love will never end.” Then I would apply a scripture verse to each day of the week beginning with Sunday to direct, strengthen and keep me. My choice of scriptures would be the following: On Sunday I would establish my foundation. But seek (aim at and strive after) first of all His kingdom and His righteousness (His way of doing and being right), and then all these things taken together will be given you besides. Matthew 6:33 (AMP) Waking up on Monday I would pray for the understanding to know that No one can serve two masters; for either he will hate the one and love the other, or he will stand by and be devoted to the one and despise and be against the other. You cannot serve God and mammon (deceitful riches, money, possessions, or whatever is trusted in). Matthew 6:24(AMP) Tuesday would find me in a holding position getting

ready to do battle. Roll your works upon the Lord [commit and trust them wholly to Him; He will cause your thoughts to become agreeable to His will, and] so shall your plans be established and succeed. Proverbs 16:3 (AMP) As Wednesday approaches and I feel the need to overcome the hump day, I would focus on fighting temptation. For no temptation (no trial regarded as enticing to sin), [no matter how it comes or where it leads] has overtaken you and laid hold on you that is not common to man [that is, no temptation or trial has come to you that is beyond human resistance and that is not adjusted and adapted and belonging to human experience, and such as man can bear]. But God is faithful [to His Word and to His compassionate nature], and He [can be trusted] not to let you be tempted and tried and assayed beyond your ability and strength of resistance and power to endure, but with the temptation He will [always] also provide the way out (the means of escape to a landing place), that you may be capable and strong and powerful to bear up under it patiently. 1 Corinthians 10:13 (AMP) With Thursday upon me, I will close all the doors to my vices. Leave no [such] room or foothold for the devil [give no opportunity to him]. Ephesians 4:27 (AMP) Should Friday find me anxious, apprehensive and too weak to fight, I will focus on: The Lord does not delay and is not tardy or slow about what He promises, according to some people’s conception of slowness, but He is long-suffering (extraordinarily patient) toward you, not desiring that any should perish, but that all should turn to repentance. 2 Peter 3:9 (AMP) My Saturday’s love will never end because He first loved me. But God shows and clearly proves His [own] love for us by the fact that while we were still sinners, Christ (the Messiah, the Anointed One) died for us. Romans 5:8 (AMP) God’s love for us never takes a day off, so why should our love for Him.

By Olivia Butler Google wants more Black men in tech and not in prison. What do we say to that? In fact, Google gave a $1 million grant to the Hidden Genius Project in Oakland. For those of you who don’t know, the Hidden Genius Project is an organization dedicated to increasing the representation of Black male youths in technology. Google.org principal, Justin Steele, wrote about the event and the grant in a blog post: Coding is evolving and influencing how we think about all industries, including fashion, music, and art. But even as CS becomes more important across a wide variety of fields, millions of Black, Hispanic and female youth aren’t unlocking its benefits. One reason behind a lack of representation is perception; according to our research with Gallup, students are five times more likely to take an interest in computer science if they often see people who look like them in that field. As we often say, “you have to see it to be it.” I first met The Hidden Genius Project when they were finalists and then winners in our 2015 Google Impact Challenge. Since our initial

Broward Health’s ‘independent’ probe led by law firms (Cont'd from FP) course,” said former Commissioner Maureen Canada, the only Broward Health board member to vote against firing Grant. Canada testified Sept. 27 before a Broward grand jury that’s investigating possible Sunshine Law violations relating to Grant’s termination and other matters at Broward Health. The American Bar Association has said there are more than 45,000 law firms in the U.S. Hundreds of those firms specialize in healthcare law. Yet the two firms Barrett chose were Nashville, TN.-based Waller, Lansden, Dortch & Davis and Birmingham, AL.-based Bradley Arant Boult Cummings. Waller Lansden has represented healthcare giant HCA for decades, including in the mid-1990s when Scott was the chief executive of what was then called Columbia/HCA. Scott departed in July 1997 amid a federal Medicare and Medicaid fraud investigation that ultimately cost the company a record-breaking $1.7 billion in criminal fines and civil settlements. Scott, however, took with him a separation agreement from HCA worth upwards of $16 million. Bradley, the brand name of Bradley Arant Boult and Cummings, was the law firm for Richard L. Scott Investments, the governor’s Naples-based firm before his election in 2010. Bradley partner Stephen T. Braun was Columbia/HCA’s general counsel under Scott and he and his firm have represented Rick and Ann Scott in various stock transactions. Broward Health lawyers represent Scott family’s investment firm Bradley also represents G. Scott Capital Partners, the Connecticut-based “family” investment firm run by Gov. Scott’s former employees where the First Lady is a part owner and has invested tens of millions of

dollars, some of which apparently came from the $62 million sale of walk-in clinic operator Solantic, which the governor transferred to her shortly after taking office amid allegations of conflict of interest. “We only invest the capital of one family,” Scott Capital, as it is known online, told InvestmentBank.com in an interview last year. “We tend to focus on deals in the $20 (million) to $50 (million) range.’’ In 2016, Scott Capital reported to the

Securities and Exchange Commission that it had $291 million in family assets under management. Broward Health General Counsel Barrett did not respond to emailed questions inquiring whether the governor’s office provided any input when she chose the Waller Lansden and Bradley firms. Grant is suing Broward Health in circuit court for breach of contract. In a separate lawsuit, she is asking the

$500,000 grant, they’ve reached more than 1,700 Bay Area students through their 15-month intensive CS and entrepreneurship boot camp program, as well as events and workshops exposing young Black men to mentors, basic computer programming, and various careers in tech, like sports analytics and video game design. Not only is Google focused on increasing the number of Black men in tech, but they are also working to reduce the incarceration rate and they’re not afraid to put their money where their mouth is. Google has invested $11.5 million in new grants to organizations across the country working to reform the criminal justice system! That’s great work. In a blog post from February 23rd 2017 Steele writes, “Mass incarceration is a huge issue in the United States, and a major area of focus for our grants. The U.S. penal population has exploded, growing by 400 percent since 1984 to more than 2 million today, with Black men sentenced at over five times the rate of white men. We have the highest rate of incarceration in the world, dwarfing the rates of every developed country and even surpassing those in highly repressive regimes.” court to declare that Barrett and Broward Health’s board violated the Sunshine Law to void her termination and order the board to hold a hearing “in the sunshine” to address both the investigation and her employment. Her attorney, Fort Lauderdale’s Eugene Pettis, called Waller Lansden’s report about Grant “the most biased, onesided piece of work I’ve ever seen,” adding that it omitted information from “essential wit(Read full story at: www.thewestsidegazette.com)


PAGE 6 • NOVEMBER 9 - NOVEMBER 15, 2017

Opinion

A Proud Paper For A Proud People

White America has been like an abusive and hypocritical parent to Black people. Whites have practiced, eye for eye, but have preached, turn the other cheek, to Blacks. The bible says in Deuteronomy19, verses 19 thru 21, “You must purge the evil from among you. The rest of the people will hear of this and be afraid, and never again will such an evil thing be done among you. Show no pity: life for life, eye for eye, tooth for tooth, hand for hand, foot for foot.” This is why whites receive justice, while Blacks receive injustice. Throughout American history, whites have murdered Blacks with

impunity. Between 1877 and 1950, about 4,000 Blacks were lynched, according to a 2015 New York Times article, History of Lynchings in the South Documents Nearly 4,000 Names. Racist whites had no incentive to stop murdering Black people. There was no eye for eye. Even in the 21st century, unarmed Blacks are being shot to death by civilian thugs and police officers who repeatedly escape justice. This happens because Blacks have not learned to speak the language perpetrators will understand. In 1965, African-American Muslim minister, Malcolm X, said, “Brothers and sisters, if you and I would just realize, that once we learn to talk the language that they understand, they

will then get the point. You can’t reach a man if you don’t speak his language. If a man speaks the language of brute force, you can’t come to him with peace.” Indeed, in 2012, Trayvon Martin was shot to death by George Zimmerman who was later acquitted. Then, in 2016, Philando Castile was shot to death by a police officer who was later acquitted. Moreover, in 2017, seven more unarmed Black males were shot to death by police officers. It is time for black people to grow a spine, stand up, not turn the other cheek, ignore the sellouts, and speak the language of Deuteronomy 19, verses 19 thru 21.

Has perjury replaced truth in the Trump Administration? By Roger Caldwell As Americans, we would like to believe that truth reigns supreme, and our leaders operate with integrity and honesty. But in 2017, under the lead-

ership of President Donald Trump, things are different, and truth has been replaced with perjury and lies. Lawyers, politicians, and sales people are a unique group of individuals because they are known to talk from both sides of their mouths. They are comfortable massaging the truth to influence clients to spend money, and hope their candidate gets the vote. Many times the individual will not tell the truth in legal matters, thereby committing perjury. According to Wikipedia, “perjury is considered a serious offense as it can be used to usurp the power of the courts resulting in miscarriages of justice. It is the intentional act of swearing a false oath or falsifying an affirmation to tell the truth, whether spoken or in writing, concerning matters material to an official proceeding. Federal law classifies perjury as a felony and provides for a prison sentence of up to five years.” It is time in America to tell the story straight and truthful, but it seems easier to lie and protect the president. The Trump administration is endangering our Democratic system, and when the president and his entire administration can’t be trusted who can you trust? The White House Chief of Staff, John Kelly, called Rep. Frederica Wilson “an empty barrel,” and attacked her about a FBI ceremony, but he had the story all wrong. There is something fundamentally flawed within our leadership. When the president spoke to the mother of gold star Sgt. La David T. Johnson, who recently died in Africa, and said to her “the fallen solider must have known what he signed up for” is cold and callous. The mother felt disrespected and hurt, but instead of offering her an apology, his administration started a war of words and accused the mother of lying. When the White House press secretary, Sarah Huckabee-Sanders tells 65 lies in 20 minutes at a press briefing, you must ask the question, “does

she have a soul?” Robert Mueller’s investigation resulted in George Papadopoulos, a Trump campaign advisor, to plead guilty to lying to FBI. Americans are now wondering what other members in the Trump administration are also committing perjury. It appears Trump’s press secretary Huckabee-Sanders finds it easy to massage the truth, but reporters know that her fabrications are not truthful. She is rude, disrespectful, and at some point, her lies will be exposed for what they really are. Since Trump has not had any major legislative victories; he and his administrative will try to push through his tax reform bill. This tax reform bill is essentially a two trillion dollar tax cut to the large international conglomerates starting with Wells Fargo. Wells Fargo has been fined billions of dollars for cheating its customers, and now they are being rewarded with a tax gift. United States Senator, Elizabeth Warren (D-Mass), released the following statement: “The new Republican tax plan is the same warmed-over, trickle-down plan they’ve been pushing for decades. It delivers massive tax cuts to millionaires and giant corporations and kicks working families to the curb. While the plan slashes the income tax rate for the highest earners, it actually increases the income tax rate that applies to many working families.” The major reason Trump and the Republicans have had no major legislative victories is because their ideas and policies are wrong and dangerous for America. Taking money out of hard working families’ incomes, and then lying about it is deranged and sick. At this point in America, Trump and his team cannot be trusted, and change must start with the impeachment of Trump because he should not be entrusted with life and death powers given to the president.

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.

He Said: Pigs will fly before another Black person gets elected to be President in this generation. Let alone a woman! Senator Harris has a better chance of winning a beauty pageant than becoming President. Granted she has the requisite political resume to legitimately put her hat in the ring. She matriculated from San Francisco District Attorney to become the A.G. for California. Her academic pedigree, to be kind, is meager at best. There is absolutely No Way a Howard graduate could compete for the highest office in the land. Recent history reflects our Presidents being alumnus from all the top schools. There were 6 that graduated from Harvard [including that Black guy], and 3 from Yale. Plus Georgetown, Columbia and Duke to round out the list. She Said: Kamala Harris had the guts to grill the US Attorney General in a Congressional hearings, which gained her national attention. She

Written by Phillip L. Wright Ph.d. In reviewing the recent growing Protests expressing of Unequa Justice, Unequal civil and human rights by the sports players and other participants in different sports is creating , a firestorm dialog emerged. They are attempting to address the true reason for their ongoing visual Protest. President Trump and some others are refusing to address or speak the true reason. They are not disrespecting the Star Spangle Banner or the American Flag. The sports players are attempting to express the facts that Black Americans are reflecting on the past attempts to protest on the inequities in the Black communities. These unfair and unequal Justice laws have been happening for centuries in many other ways. Disrespectfully, our American judicial system of Justice is still not en forcing the laws, and are still ignoring the fact that Black Americans are still lacking respect from the American governmental system of laws, and being treated as second hand citizens or property and not humans or Americans. Blacks are not being recognized as other Americans who are treated fairly and being respected. (Read full story at: www.thewestsidegazette.com)

Segregating public schools won’t make America great again

By George D. Taylor CBCF Presents President Obama’s Legacy on Fatherhood, Black Men & Boys (Standing up for Justice: Protecting Our Women, Children and Communities) WASHINGTON, DC – Following opening remarks by Congressman James E. Clyburn, (D-SC), Thabiti Boone, Fatherhood Representative and Liaison to Former President Barack Obama’s White House, opened the Congressional Black Caucus/Omega Psi Phi Fraternity, Inc., Issues Forum by introducing Host Congressman Clyburn and Grand Basileus Antonio F. Knox, Sr., 40th Grand Basileus of the Omega Psi Phi Fraternity, Inc. Grand Basileus Knox presented Congressman Clyburn with an award for his exceptional work on behalf of the people of South Carolina. Knox reminded the audience: “We can never think that our vote doesn’t count. Every vote counts. People died so that we could vote; local elections are important; state elections are important. The Omega Psi Phi Fraternity voter education and registration drive continues,” he said. S. Earl Wilson, Co-Chairman of the International Fatherhood and Mentoring Committee of Omega Psi Phi Fraternity, Inc., made a PowerPoint presentation highlighting the fraternity’s commitment to keeping President Obama’s Fatherhood & Mentoring legacy alive. He cited several Obama era initiatives: Brother You’re on My Mind, Affordable Health Care, Criminal Reform-Reentry, and Mentoring activities that remain active fraternity initiatives. Boone summarized the charge to the panel. He said we must be, “intentional about our Fatherhood Initiatives. Can we have our men to step up and be fathers? How do we as men protect our women and families.” (Read full story at: www.thewestsidegazette.com)

Suffering in America Our country is seriously in need of change By Duvalier Malone

has the brains, the experience, and the fire. The precedent has already been set for a person of color to hold the job. She just needs to shatter the “glass ceiling” which all professional women face. He Said: Let’s be realistic- behind closed doors women want a Man to be

On November 4, 1952, Dr. Helen Kenyon addressed the Women’s Society of Riverside Church in New York City and opined that, “Eleven o’clock Sunday morning is the most segregated hour in America.” Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. often paraphrased the quote. Today, sadly, our public schools best reflect Dr. Kenyon’s and Dr. King’s sentiment as the most segregated place in America. The rampant re-segregation of American public schools poses a greater threat to the trajectory of America’s progress than terrorism, nuclear proliferation, and Russian meddling in our elections. Sixty-two years after Brown v. Board, the GAO (Government Accountability Office) reported that from the years 2000-2014, both the percentage of K-12 public schools in high-poverty and the percentage of African American and Hispanic

(Read full story at: www.thewestsidegazette.com)

(Read full story at: www.thewestsidegazette.com)

(Read full story at: www.thewestsidegazette.com)

Kamala Harris for President

By Don Valentine - Nicole Nutting

Banner and the American Flag Stand for Freedom and Equality for all Americans?

I’ve never spoken publicly about guns before. Even though there have been many mass shootings in America, I’ve always remained silent on this issue. Why? I guess I always believed that deep in the conscience of our lawmakers, something would click one day, and they would come to the realization that something needs to be done about guns. But now after watching what amounts to political pomp in recent days, I have to say something. Over five hundred people were shot. Let that sink in. Let it marinate. OVER FIVE HUNDRED PEOPLE were shot in less than 15 minutes. So many lives were lost and other lives were changed irreparably and forever. Why isn’t our Congress listening to the pleas of the people begging them to act on gun control? Regardless of whatever you choose to believe, the facts are plain and obvious: this kind of firepower should not be legal on the streets of America. We all know this. It’s common sense! The entire country is in a precarious situation right now. Both literal and proverbial shots have been fired, and these bullets are ripping through the fabric of our democracy. What does it mean when America is too weak to do what’s necessary to save the lives of its citizens? Other countries have taken massive leaps and bounds to do what they can to stamp out the blight of gun murder. The UK and Australia took drastic steps and measures to protect the lives of their citizens from increasing gun violence. Since 1996, the UK has only had one mass shooting.

He Said - She Said”

LETTERS TO THE EDITOR GUIDELINES

Standing for Justice, Mental Health and Protecting Women, Children and Do the Star Spangle Communities

The Westside Gazette, under the Management of BI-ADs, Inc., reserves the right to publish Views and Opinions by Contributing Writers that 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 submits comments published in this newspaper.

Speak Perpetrator’s Language Kevin Palmer

www.thewestsidegazette.com

Public Schools are more segregated than they were 40 years ago Rushern Baker, the county executive for Prince Georges County, Md., says that a HungerGames-like competition for vouchers and charter schools leaves parents and students fending for themselves. By Rushern Baker (County Executive, Prince Georges County, Md.)

Black Students in the Nation’s Capital Deserve Better Lynette Monroe says that it’s up to all of us to improve the educational outcomes for Black students. By Lynette Monroe (Program Assistant, NNPA ESSA Media Campaign) In my role as the program assistant for the National Newspaper Publishers Association’s (NNPA) Every Student Succeeds Act (ESSA) Public

Awareness Campaign, I closely followed the proposal process for the District of Columbia’s ESSA plan. I have to admit, I was disappointed by the final version of the plan submitted to the U.S. Department of Education. Overall, D.C.’s ESSA plan is, at best, an incomplete assignment. The ‘to be continued’ tone of the plan could be partly due to the discontent expressed by many community members during the final stakeholder meetings. Parents and educators alike expressed (Read full story at: www.thewestsidegazette.com)


www.thewestsidegazette.com

BUSINESS

A Proud Paper For A Proud People

NOVEMBER 9 - NOVEMBER 15, 2017 • PAGE 7

UNITY IN THE COMMUNITY DIRECTORY

OFFICE: (954) 733-7700 ext. 111 CELL: (754) 234-4485 4360 W. Oakland Park Boulevard Lauderdale Lakes, Florida 33313 ken@acclaimcares.com

24 Hour Good Neighbor Service Se habla espanol

DO YOU OR ANYONE YOU KNOW HAVE LESS THAN PERFECT CREDIT?

FINANCIAL FREEDOM JUST AHEAD CREDIT SPECIALISTS Lola W alker Walker Direct: (954) 588-3864 Marisa Andrews: (470) 535-4600 Email:quickactioncredit@gmail.com Web: QuickActionCredit.com

PROTECT YOUR: *IDENTITY *CREDIT *FAMILY *FINANCES *LIFESTYLE & FUTURE

Johnnie Smith, Jr Jr.. Enrolled Agent F ranchise T ax P rofessional Tax Professional *T ax P reparation *Accounting *P ayroll *Tax Preparation *Payroll 3007 W W.. Commercial Blvd., Suite 204 Fort Lauderdale, FL 33309 Tel. (954) 730-2226 - Fax: (954) 730-2036 Cell (954) 303-5779 johnnie.smith@hrblock.com www .hrblock.com www.hrblock.com

DO TO HURRICANE IRMA PEANUTS HAS GONE UP $3.00 Call FORD (954) 557-1203 The 60th Annual Conference Florida Shore and Beach Preservation Association Honors Thaddeus “Thad” Hamilton

STS TAX SERVICES INC. in association with

Freeman - R.L. Macon Funeral Home "AN INSTITUTION

WITH A

SOUL"

RICHARD L. MACON LICENSED FUNERAL DIRECTOR NOTARY OWNER 738 DR. MARTIN LUTHER KING, JR. BLVD. POMPANO BEACH, FL 33060 (954) 946-5525

Florida Shore and Beach Preservation Association is holding its 60th Annual Conference September 27-29, 2017 at the Westin Fort Lauderdale Beach Resort. This year Thaddeus “Thad” Hamilton has been selected as the 2017 recipient of the Florida Shore & Beach Preservation Association’s Prestigious Environmental Award. The Environmental Award is presented to Mr. Hamilton for his significant contribution to the environment with beach preservation, his decades long charge to revegetate coastal dunes throughout Broward County, the State of Florida, and to educate the public about the importance of vegetated dunes. Mr. Hamilton is one of the foremost experts in the state of Florida in the field of coastal revegetation. He worked for 36 years with the United States Department of Agriculture-Natural Resources Conservation Services (USDA-NRCS). Mr.

Hamilton has always felt that the beaches and surrounding coastal environments are of great economic and environmental importance. He understands that coastal erosion is a very serious problem. Beginning in 1980 under his leadership and direct action, an innovative coastal re-vegetation program was developed in Broward County Florida. This program led to the development of the Best Management Practices (BMPs) that are used throughout the State of Florida and the United States to stabilize coastal beaches and to reduce beach erosion. These BMPs have enabled the Broward Soil and Water Conservation District (BSWCD) and USDA-NRCS to grow coastal plants at an accelerated rate. Under this program coastal dune re-vegetation projects were created, and in 5 months the sea oats had grown (Read full story at: www.thewestsidegazette.com)


PAGE 8 • NOVEMBER 9 - NOVEMBER 15, 2017

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

Church Directory

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

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

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"

New Birth Baptist Church The Cathedral of Faith International

Rev. Stanley Melek, M.Div 2351 N.W. 26th Street Oakland Park, Florida 33311 Church Telephone: (954) 731-0520

SERVICES Sunday Worship ................................................. 7:30 a.m. & 10:30 a.m. Sunday School .............................................................................. 9:00 a.m. Wednesday (Bible Study) ........................................... 11a.m. to 7:00 p.m.

ORDER OF SERVICES Sunday Worship ........................................................ 7:00 a.m., 11:00 a.m. & 7:00 p.m. Sunday School ....................................................................................................... 9:30 a.m. Tuesday (Bible Study) ......................................................................................... 6:45 p.m. Wednesday (Bible Study) ............................................................................... 10:45 a.m.

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

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

Dr. Marcus D. Davidson, Senior Pastor WORSHIP SERVICES & BIBLE STUDY Sunday .................................................... 7:15 a.m. 9:00 a.m. & 11:00 a.m. Sunday School ............................................................................ 10:00 a.m. Wednesday Noonday Service .................................. 12:00-12:30 p.m. Wednesday Night Prayer Meeting ............................................ 6:30 p.m. Wednesday Night Bible Study ................................................... 7:00 p.m. Where the kingdom of God is increased through Fellowship. Leadership, Ownership and Worship F.L.O.W. To Greatness!

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

Rev. Cal Hopkins. M.Div) Senior Pastor/Teacher

The WITNESS of “The WILL” Sunday Worship Experiences ................................................................ 7:45 and 11:00 a.m. Sunday School ................................................................................................................. 9:30 a.m. Tuesday Night Triumph {Prayer, Praise and Power} Prayer Meeting ................................................................................................................ 7:00 p.m. Bible Study ........................................................................................................................ 7:30 p.m.

Pastor Keith & Sister Maria Cunningham 2241 Davie Blvd. Fort Lauderdale, FL 33312 Church Telephone: (754) 214-6753 Visit: www.victoryweb.org

SCHEDULE OF SERVICES SUNDAY

New Member Orientation ........................... 9:30 a.m. Sunday School ................................................ 9:30 a.m. Worship Service ........................................ 11:00 a.m. WEDNESDAY Prayer Meeting ............................................... 6:00 p.m. Bible Study ..................................................... 7:00 p.m.

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

Mount Hermon A.M.E. Church Rev Henry E. Green, Jr. PASTOR 401 N.W. 7th Terrace, Fort Lauderdale, FL 33311 Phone: (954) 463-6309 - FAX 954 522-4113 Office Hours: Tues. - Fri. 8:30 a.m. to 6:30 p.m. Email: infor@mthermonftl.com

SUNDAY CHURCH SERVICES Worship Service ................................................................................... 10 a.m. Church School ..................................................................................... 9:15 a.m. BIBLE STUDY: Wednesday ................................................................... 10 a.m. Gems & Jewels Ministry Senior Wednesday Wednesday (Bible Study) ............................................... 12 Noon & 7- 8 p.m. Daily Prayer Line ...................................................................................... 6 a.m. (712) 432-1500- Access Code296233#

Mt. Zion Missionary Baptist Church 1161 NW 29th Terr., Fort Lauderdale, Fla. 33311 (954) 581-0455 ● Fax: (954) 581-4350 www.mtzionmbc1161.com

Dr. James B. Darling, Jr., Pastor/Teacher WORSHIP SERVICES Worship Service ............................................................................................................ 10:15 a.m. Sunday School ................................................................................................................ 9:00 a.m. Communion Service (1st Sunday) ........................................................................... 10:15 a.m. Wednesday Night Prayer Meeting ........................................................................... 6:30 p.m. Wednesday Night Bible Study ................................................................................... 7:00 p.m. Saturday (2nd & 4th) Christian Growth & Orientation ................................... 8:30 a.m. But be doers of the Word - James 1:22 nkjv - “A Safe Haven, and you can get to Heaven from here”

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

Rev. George A. Hardy, Pastor SERVICES Sunday Church School ................................................................... 8:45 a.m. Sunday Morning Worship ........................................................... 10:00 a.m. Tuesday Night (Family Prayer & Bible Study) ........................... 7:00 p.m. Wednesday (Prayer Conference Line) ................................................ 8:00 p.m. (Dail (786) 233-6715 - Acess Code 703513) Oakland Park CDC (Senior Activity Center) Daily ............10 a.m. & 2:00 p.m.

Obituaries

2300 N.W. 135th Street Miami, Florida 33167

Victory Independent 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

* In Memoriam * Happy Birthday Remembrance * Death Notice * Obituaires * Cards Of Thanks

Senior Pastor/Teacher

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!”

Mount Calvary Baptist Church

Honor your loved ones in the Westside Gazette Newspaper Call -- (954) 525-1489

Bishop Victor T. Curry, M.Min., D.Div.

Harris Chapel United Methodist Church E-MAIL:stanley.melek@flumc.org

www.thewestsidegazette.com

A Proud Paper For A Proud People

SundaySchool………………………..........................................................................................................9:45a.m. WorshipServiceSundayMorning………………………..................................................................11:00a.m. SundayEveningService………………………………………..............................................................................6:00p.m. Wednesday Evening Bible Study & Prayer……………..........................................................7:00 p.m. Saturday Morning Soul Winning/Visitation……………….....................................................10:00 a.m. Men’s Fellowship (Every 2nd & last Tuesdays)………….....................................................6:00 p.m. Ladies Fellowship (the last Saturday of each month)……..........................................5:00 p.m. 5th Sunday – Family Fellowship (April 30, 2017)……………………..................................... .5:00 p.m. YouthFellowship(EveryFriday)………………………….....................................................................6:30p.m.

Discover GOD Let Us Help You End The Way To Jesus Christ

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

‘The spirit of the antichrist is alive and kicking’ Question: What is the Antichrist according to the scriptures? Answer: In the scriptures the “antichrist” is critical with the last events of this present age. The word “antichrist” comes from two Greek words- christos meaning ‘Christ’ and anti which means against. The name “antichrist” is found only in the epistles of John (1 John 2:18, 22; 4:3; 2 John 7). According to John the antichrist is one coming in the last days or the last times, and one whose spirit is already present in world. Although the antichrist will not be revealed until after the Rapture, the spirit of antichrist is “alive and kicking” and will continue to possess any human parallel to Satan. (Read full story at: www.thewestsidegazette.com)

Constitution Revision Commission Community Education Forum Saturday, November 18, 2017 First Baptist Church Piney Grove, Inc. will host a Community Education Forum. Lorna Brown-Burton, Karen Black Barron, Shaheewa JarrettGelin with assistance by Minister Josephus Eggelletion and Ruth Lynch will present a Constitution Revision Commission Community Education Forum on November 18, 2017 at 9 a.m., at First Baptist Church Piney Grove, Inc., at 4699 West Oakland Park Blvd. Fort Lauderdale, Fla. Once every 20 years, a 37member Constitution Revision Commission (CRC) convenes to conduct a thorough review and propose amendments to the Florida Constitution. The amendments that the commission approve go directly on the ballot for voters to decide. Currently, Florida is the only state where this happens, and it’s happening right now. Even though the constitution is the foundation for all Florida government and outlines our rights, only 1 in 10 residents can correctly identify this important revision process. The Florida Bar launched Protect Florida Democracy, a

James C. Boyd Funeral Home

Roy Mizell & Kurtz Funeral Home

MILLER Funeral services for the late Rita Annette Miller - 56 were held November 4 at James C. Boyd’s Memorial Chapel with Pastor Danielle officiating. Interment: Forest Lawn Memorial Gardens (Central).

DUNCAN Funeral services for the late George Lamar “Tunie” Duncan - 63 were held November 4 at Roy Mizell and Kurtz Worship Center with Pastor Quinton Phillips officiating.

RUSHIN Funeral services for the late Zoey Denise Rushin – 1 month old were held at James C. Boyd’s Memorial Chapel with Pastor Roger Moncrief officiating. Interment: Sunset Memorial Gardens. SPENCER Funeral services for the late James Frank Spencer, Sr. - 59 were held November 4 at National Church of God with Bishop Lipton McKenzie officiating. Interment: Sunset Memorial Gardens.

McWhite's Funeral Home JACKSON Funeral services for the late Annie W. Smith-Jackson 99 were held November 4 at New Hope Baptist Church with Pastor Ricky Scott officiating. Interment: Third Chapel Baptist Church Cemetery, Midville, GA. OATES Funeral services for the late Willie Mae Oates – 76 were held November 4 at McWhite’s Funeral Home Chapel with Rev. Kenneth Gosier officiating. Interment: Sunset Memorial Gardens.

HOLLINGSWORTH Funeral services for the late Berlinea Smiley “Nanny” Hollingsworth - 65 were held November 4 at Mount Hermon AME Church with Rev. Henry E. Green, Jr. officiating. MORRISON Funeral services for the late Gwendolyn Drucilla Bullard Morrison 70 were held November 4 at All Saints Episcopal Church with Fr. Leonel Charles officiating. Interment: Forest Lawn Memorial Gardens. RACHEL Funeral services for the late Annie Laura Rachel – 65 were held November 4 at St. Luke Baptist Church with Pastor W.J. Gaskins officiating. SHAW Funeral services for the late Vergeree Gaines Shaw - 95 were held November 4 at New Hope Baptist Church with Pastor Ricky Scott officiating. Interment: Forest Lawn Memorial Gardens Central.

Wait on the Lord: be of good courage, and he shall strenghten your hearts: wait, I say on the Lord.. Psalm 27:14

If the middle Black family hits zero wealth does it mean the end of the Black Church? By Eurpub Attorney Antonio Moore and Guest Pastor Kevin Cosby, who is also president of HBCU Simmons College, discuss the impact of racial wealth inequality on the Black church in America on Moore’s weekly show Tonetalks on Dash Radio. Dr. Cosby delivers a powerful call to action for the Black community, and Black families to rebuild African American Institutions. Cosby gave a powerful eulogy at Muhammad Ali’s funeral last year.

During the show they answer the questions: 1) Is the disappearance of Black wealth the end of the Black church? 2) What are the traditional institutions of Black America? 3) What is the functional role of the Black church? 4) Have (Read full story at: www.thewestsidegazette.com)

Greetings, public education program, intended to help you — the voters — understand the importance of this constitution revision process. You don’t have to be an expert in constitutional law to recognize the critical importance of protecting our constitution from amendments that may ultimately impact the balance of power among the three branches of government. The entire Florida Constitution is subject to change in this revision process, and our State’s future depends on how well its residents pay attention, get involved and understand the impact of amending the state’s charter document. There will be a meet and greet and a presentation regarding the Constitution Revision Commission. Everyone is invited to come out and get informed!

The First Baptist Church of Collier City, Pompano Beach Florida is prayerfully seeking and currently accepting resumes for a prospective Pastor. In this position, the Pastor is to oversee the life and direction of the church, along with and under the guidance of the Board of Deacons. A potential candidates should have a growth mindset, be responsible for preparing sermons, conducting services, attending meetings, leading and equipping members and other duties to be determined. The prospective Pastor should be a great leader, spirit filled, family and community focused, with a passion for the youth. The Pastor should lead the church in accordance with our church constitution and by-laws. Additionally, the candidate must have the ability to communicate, both written and oral, with members of all ages. Applicants should be an ordained minister with license and/or certification. Apply Now by submitting your Resume and Artifacts to: Attn: Pastor Search Committee By Email: Firstbaptistchurch@aol.com – yesgodIsable@gmail.com By Mail: First Baptist Church of Collier City P.O. Box 1721: Pompano Beach, Florida 33061 In His Service, FBC Pastor Search Committee


www.thewestsidegazette.com

A Proud Paper For A Proud People

NOVEMBER 9 - NOVEMBER 15, 2017 • PAGE 9

Partnership to expand HIV medical and Jenifer Lewis reveals sex addiction, living with support services to Broward County Broward House, Broward County’s 30 Year HIV/AIDS Service Organization, and the Community AIDS Network (CAN), serving the greater Sarasota area for more than 26 years, are pleased to announce a partnership to expand HIV medical care and wrap-around social services in Broward County. Broward House and CAN will now provide individuals the opportunity to receive medical care, mental health support, substance abuse treatment, case management and housing in addition to providing testing and prevention programs for HIV, STD’s and Hepatitis C in a collaborative care model. Broward House CEO, Stacy

Hyde states “An HIV diagnosis affects many facets of an individual’s life and the impact of this remains alarming. A partnership with CAN’s specialized HIV medical care and our extensive wrap around services can contribute positively to the overall health of our community.” Broward County continues to be one of the leading areas nationally for newly infected individuals. Through targeted prevention and education efforts, as well as testing, and working with HIV infected patients to control their viral load and reduce the risk of transmission, the agencies are confident their combined efforts will have a positive impact in access and retention to health care. “We are excited along with our partner, Broward House to now be serving Broward county

bipolar disorder

to continue our work to provide care and services for those living with HIV, hepatitis C, STDs and other diseases,” stated Richard E. Carlisle, CAN president and CEO. Broward House and CAN will be announcing services and the opening of locations soon. ABOUT BROWARD HOUSE Broward House is a private, non-profit organization whose mission is to improve the quality of life for individuals impacted with chronic health challenges, including HIV, by providing pathways to wellness. While Broward House began its mission by providing housing, and it remains a core component of services, it is realized that individuals require an array of support services for true healing to

By Krystal Franklin

occur. It is this philosophy that has led to the expansion of services in prevention, education, case management, mental health, substance abuse treatment, transportation, and collaborative medical care, which are provided regardless of the individual’s financial status. Contact Rob Bullock, Director of Development, Broward House, 1726 S.E. Third Ave., Fort Lauderdale, Fla. 33316 - (954) 522-4749 X 1221 rbullock@browardhouse.org www.browardhouse.org.

Rural Areas — Already Short on Health Resources — face enrollment hitches By Virginia Anderson Health resources Georgia’s big cities

outside

ATLANTA — Ms. Stella’s, a homecooking restaurant in Milledgeville, Ga., serves roast beef, grilled pork chops, chicken wings and oxtails with 24 sides from which to choose. Last spring, owners Jeri and Lucious Trawick, opened a second restaurant in Eatonton, about 20 miles away, and Jeri decided to leave her full-time job to help shepherd the expansion. But she needed to update the couple’s health insurance and went shopping on the Affordable Care Act’s online marketplace. Trawick, 43, who considers herself nearly as skilled with a computer as she is with a skillet, found the Obamacare website daunting. “It was not exactly userfriendly,” she said. Trawick needs specific medications to control her hypertension, and the section on drug coverage left her “confused.” She turned to Insure Georgia, a program funded in large part by federal money to help consumers enroll in Obamacare. A trained navigator showed her how to compare policies on the website, look at drug formularies and examine differences in prices and provider networks. “I could have done it without her, maybe, but it would have taken me forever,” Trawick said. This fall, it will be different. Open enrollment for ACA plans, which begins Nov. 1, has been shortened to 45 days. At the same time, funding for navigator programs and other support for consumers has been cut dramatically in Georgia — by 86 percent — and across the country.

The number of navigators for Insure Georgia, the nonprofit agency that has received the bulk of federal funding for enrollment efforts in past years, will drop to 21 from 42 last year, said Fred Ammons, chief executive officer of Community Health Works, the parent organization of Insure Georgia. There is no advertising budget to even inform consumers that open enrollment begins. Ammons said he is concerned that with all the past year’s rhetoric among Republicans in Washington about repealing and replacing Obamacare, some people may not even understand that the program is still available. That could be a problem in Georgia, which, after seeing increased enrollment in the first three years of the marketplaces, experienced a 16 percent drop in sign-ups for 2017 coverage. In some rural counties the decline was as much as 36 percent. Georgia ranks third in uninsured residents, behind only Texas and Florida. ‘Isn’t Obamacare Dead?’ ACA supporters are con-cerned that residents in the rural portions of Georgia — which make up about 17 percent of the population — could be most at risk. In recent decades, those rural areas have fallen behind other parts of the state in income, educational achievement and in access to health care. With enrollment assistance resources so strapped, it will be hard to reach out to rural consumers. “We had a booth at the PRIDE festival in Atlanta last Sunday, and someone said, ‘Why are y’all even here? Isn’t Obamacare dead?’” Ammons said. “And if they think that in

Broward Education Foundation inducts (Cont'd from Page 2) Koenig graduated from Northeast High School in 1969 and has been a philanthropist and advocate for education and children for more than 40 years. The three inductees who received the Bank of America Community Achievement Award for their contributions to the community were: Lisa Scott Founds, President and CEO of Winterfest, Stranahan High School, Class of 1981 Max Osceola, Jr., Native American Issues Consultant, McArthur High School, Class of 1968 Shane Strum, Senior Vice President of Memorial Healthcare System, Hollywood Hills High School, Class of 1988 Receiving The Seminole Hard Rock Hotel, Café & Casino Education Achievement Award for their dedication to a career in public education were: James F. Griffin II, Lauderdale Lakes Middle School Principal, Dillard High School, Class of 1989 Patrick McQuaid, Nova High School Athletic Director, Nova High School, Class of 1968 Elaine Saef, Panther Run

Elementary School Principal, Hollywood Hills High School, Class of 1982 The names of the inductees will forever be etched on granite stars lining the BrightStar Credit Union “Walk of Fame” outside of the Broward County Public Schools District Office. “We are deeply committed to community involvement and are proud to help shine the spotlight on the importance of education,” said Nicole Krauss, Media and Communications Manager for Publix Super Markets Charities and emcee of the event. “These Hall of Fame honorees have set the standard for supporting our community with their time and talents and their contributions will impact generations to come.” During the Hall of Fame breakfast, Broward Education Foundation paid special tribute to Brian W. Dassler, Ph.D., former Florida Department of Education Deputy Chancellor of Quality Education and Cooper City High School class of 1997 alumnus, who passed away earlier this year. Additional sponsors included D. Stephenson Construction, Inc., Comcast, Wells Fargo and Charter Schools of Excellence.

60-year-old Jenifer Lewis is telling it like it is in her new book, The Mother Of Black Hollywood (if ever there was a title that was true, this one is it). The Blackish actress writes in her memoir about living undiagnosed with bipolar disorder and a sex addiction she discovered while on Broadway. In an excerpt exclusively landed by the folks at People, Lewis writes, “Performing on Broadway was a rush. The applause coming over the footlights was like a tsunami in slow motion. The crash after the show, I assure you, is just as intense. Let’s just say that post show I had a sort of habit of sex serving as a night cap. I was Cleopatra, Pam Grier, Marilyn Monroe, and Jezebel rolled into one. For me, nothing could extend the thrill of a standing ovation like great sex with a gorgeous guy.” In 1989 she’d begin to selfmedicate with alcohol and sex to treat her bipolar disorder. She eventually sought help from a therapist. “Had she said, ‘you’re crazy,’ I would have agreed. I had been crazy all my life. When she said, ‘mental illness,’ I

LEWIS thought, ‘b—-, you crazy.’ I associated mental illness with people who couldn’t function, with straitjackets. I certainly knew what a depressive mood was, but this other ‘manic’ part was new. When Rachel explained the details, I gasped. You mean, there is a name for describing why I talk fast and walk fast and rage, create drama, and speed when I drive a car? Compulsive, you say? The doodling, the braiding and unbraiding my hair? The arguing with people and storming off ? Kicking s—, throwing s— ? Yeah, okay, I guess all of that describes me.” Lewis’ book is available for pre-order here. And just in case you need some convincing. Brandy and actress Roz Ryan are here to help.

“A Civil War Christmas: Atlanta, you can only imagine what they think in south Georgia.” Health economist William Custer, who teaches at Georgia State University in Atlanta, echoed those fears about increases in the number of uninsured in rural Georgia. The effects of less insurance will be felt hard in those areas, he explained. Nearly half of the state’s counties, most of them in rural areas, do not have an OB-GYN. Seven hospitals in rural Georgia have closed within the past four years. Several have closed

their labor and delivery units. If people in rural Georgia lose insurance rather than gain it, efforts made in recent years by state leaders to stanch financial bleeding at rural hospitals could be jeopardized, Custer said. “This is really the big worry. The problem in Georgia is that we have very different geographics, very different demographics and very different health care. These changes this year really seem to be pushing us even more to two Georgias,” Custer said. (Read full story at: www.thewestsidegazette.com)

Black Owned Businesses Matter (Cont'd from FP) When asked why did she move back to her hometown, she stated “Because there is work for me to do here. I have answers and experiences for someone that wants the opportunity that I’ve had. And if I can make it easier for someone in my family, my community, or my friends I am here.” Rochelle is known in the community for her active engagement with Black owned businesses by supporting and promoting local Black owned businesses in the Tri County areas. Where does she see the Westside Gazette (WSG) now as she steps into the door? “WSG is prominent among seasoned readers. With the use of social media platforms and online access, the community has lost focus on valuable sources such as the community papers. Communities that are dependent on media outlets that do not represent them nor tell their stories, are often

How the CHIP (Cont'd from Page 2) Kaiser estimated that 32 states will exhaust their federal funds by March 2018. Health-care advocates have sounded the alarm and have called on Black parents and families to contact their congressional representatives and senators right away to demand that they reauthorize CHIP. Freddie Allen is the editorin-chief of the NNPA Newswire and Black PressUSA.com. You can follow him on Twitter.

misinformed and uninformed. My vision and commitment to WSG is to promote growth.” Where she want to take WSG? “I envisions growth through extended promotion of Black owned businesses whether its small or a large corporation. There are newfound companies emerging yearly and a lot of them are not publicized enough (such as the Black owned gas stations, raw honey bee farm, or wine bistro). She wants to connect the younger audience back to reading the newspaper versus social media being their only source of community education. “As an older publisher, it is refreshing to see younger people come forth and want to move Black owned media forward. I see Rochelle working hand and hand with our GenerationNext moving the business to the next level,” said Henry. How will she do it? “I have already built relationships with hundreds of businesses via social media. So I anticipate on creating an outlet via WSG to increase publicity as well as income for the businesses that she will promote in the paper. I’m will, able and ready to serve as a vehicle of transporting Black goods and Black services to a trillion dollar power house,” says a vibrant Rochelle. If you would like to contact her for advertisement or an interview with our paper, she can be reached at (954) 940-2135 or E: RochelleSMS@Outlook.com

(Cont'd from FP) Set on a chilly Christmas Eve in 1864 during the latter days of the Civil War. Washington, D.C. is settling down to the coldest Christmas Eve in years. In the White House, President and Mrs. Lincoln plot their gift-giving. On the banks of the Potomac, a young rebel challenges a Union blacksmith’s mercy. In the alleys downtown, an escaped slave loses her daughter just before finding freedom. “A Civil War Christmas” (known as the American version of Charles Dickens’s “A Christmas Carol”) weaves a tapestry of fictional and historical characters, such as President and Mrs. Lincoln – together with holiday music, marches, hymns, and spirituals of the period – to tell a story of companionship and communal hope arising from one of our nation’s darkest hours. “A Civil War Christmas” is a delight for people of all ages and contains many of the classic Christmas songs that we all know and love such as Silent Night, I Heard the Bells, What Child is This?, God Rest Ye Merry Gentleman, The Holly and the Ivy, and O Christmas Tree. The production will be directed by Herman LeVern Jones, a 45-year theatre veteran, who has started theatre companies all over the United States, toured internationally and received a Master of Fine Arts in Acting from the University of North Carolina-Chapel Hill. Bianca LaVerne Jones, who recently received her Master of Fine Arts in Directing from the

London Academy of Music and Dramatic Art (LAMDA) and starred in the world premiere of “A Civil War Christmas” at the Long Wharf Theatre in November 2008, will lend her talents to the production as Assistant Director. Other member and cast are: Porsha Estime, Jacovia Farrington, Samantha Davis, Elizabeth Phillips , Dwayne Stephenson, Marie Manuel – Music, Richard Beckford – Music and Derrick Estefan Tech Performance Dates and Times: Friday Dec. 15: 10 am (school students), 1 p.m., (senior citizens), at 7 p.m., Saturday Dec. 16 at 2 p.m., (seniors), 7 pm; Friday Dec. 22 at 10 am (school students), 1 p.m., (seniors), at 7 p.m., Saturday Dec. 23 at 2 p.m., (school students), at 7 p.m. Morning performances are designed as field trips for school students and afternoon performances are tailored to seniors. However, the general public is more than welcome to attend any performance of their choosing! Open Auditions TheatreSouth invites all interested actors, singers, dancers and musicians to be a part of this magical and historical play! Auditions are currently taking place at the Pompano Beach Cultural Center. For more information about the auditions or to schedule an appointment with the Artistic Director, please contact us at: Herman LeVern Jones’ TheatreSouth; 305.924.3003 Email: nfo@theatresouth.net and website: www.theatresouth.net

Florida residents with damage/losses from Hurricane Irma have until Friday, November 24, 2017 to register for FEMA/State Disaster Assistance • Register Online at DisasterAssistance.gov • Download the FEMA App for Apple or Android mobile devices • Call 800-621-3362 by phone, 711 or Video Relay Service or (TTY) 800-462-7585 • The toll-free numbers are open 7 a.m. to 11 p.m., seven days a week. Multilingual operators are available. What types of FEMA assistance are available? Disaster assistance for homeowners and renters may include grants to help pay for: • Temporary housing • Essential home repairs • Uninsured and underinsured personal property losses • Other serious disasterrelated needs not covered by insurance. What information do I need to have to apply? • Social Security number • Address of your damaged primary residence • Description of the damage • Information about insurance coverage • A current contact telephone number • An address where you can receive mail • Bank account and routing numbers for direct deposit of funds


PAGE 10 • NOVEMBER 9 - NOVEMBER 15, 2017

Dolphins fall to Raiders By Byler Henry After losing two straight games the Dolphins are currently in third place in the AFC East with a 44 record. With 8 games down, there are 8 more left in the season and the Dolphins are still in the hunt and still have a chance to grab the wild card spot. Currently the Bills are second in the AFC East with a 5-3 record, and they currently have the second wild card spot. Second place in the AFC East and the sixth seed in the playoffs are still within reach for the phins. Sunday night was a good close game that ended with Dolphins only losing by 3 points to the Raiders, 27 to 24. It was an overall better performance after they were blown out by the Ravens. Jay Cutler performed well under center going

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. November 2, 9, 16, 23, 30, 2017

HELP W ANTED WANTED RYDER HIRING EVENT - Miami, FL Truck - Heavy Equipment Techs - All Levels Available You’re invited to attend our Open House - Hiring Manager Interviews Onsite Ryder Shop - 10900 NW 25th St Miami, FL 33172 November 9th & 10th 7am to 6pm & November 11th 8am to 2pm 12 locations in Dade, Broward, Palm Beach Counties For more information please call 1-904-528-9120 Refer to Job # 2017-43523 or apply online today at www.Ryder.Jobs

Drug Testing is a Condition of Employment. Ryder is an EEO Employer/ Vet/Disabled

www.thewestsidegazette.com

A Proud Paper For A Proud People only allowed one sack. “I think we just have to look at the positives; offensively, we did some good things tonight. If we eliminate some of those penalties and that turnover when we’re driving, and we’re in good posi-

some drives, but the holding penalties pushed them back and stalled them. There were a lot of positives to take away from this week. Although there were too many costly penalties, the offensive line

tion. We’re 4-4 at the halfway point. (There is) a lot of football left to play. There’s a lot of opportunities for us to put it together.� Jay Cutler said about the offense. They have a whole week to look at tape and clean up any mistakes. There are still

8 more games to play, and that sixth playoff seed is not far out of reach. Obstacles don't have to stop you. If you run into a wall, don't turn around and give up. Figure out how to climb it, go through it, or work around it. --Michael Jordan

MIAMI RED 67

NOVEMBER 9, 2017

47

VOL. 45 NO. 06

1 7 4

NUMEROLOGY - DOGS

0 3 2

12

HORSES - JAI-LAI - LOTTERIES

/2772 3,&.6 Jay Cutler (Photo by Ron Lyons)

LATEST LOTTERY RESULTS FLA

3,&.

Lottery

34 of 42 with 311 passing yards and 3 touchdowns. Julius Thomas was the lead receiver with 84 receiving yards and a touchdown. Even though the Raiders were victorious ,the Dolphins put up a good fight. With Jay Ajayi being traded to the Eagles, the Dolphins have to find a way to get the running game going. Kenyan Drake was their leading rusher with 69 yards on 9 attempts. Damien Williams had 14 yards rushing and 47 yards receiving. Many of the Dolphins drives were halted because of costly penalties. “There might have been 21 penalties between both of us. It seemed like theirs almost came on one drive where there were back-to-back penalties. Ours were coming at really poor times where we had some good plays and (they) get called back. Hard to recover from it,� Head Coach Adam Gase stated about the penalties. Next week the Dolphins go on the road for a Monday night game against the Carolina Panthers. This will be a tough game, but if the Dolphins could cut down on the penalties they can come away with the win. They were estqablishing rhythm on

FL Cash 4Life

Powerball Florida MegaMillion LuckyMoney Fantasy 5 Pick 2 Pick 3 Pick 4 Pick5

3,&.

3,&.

12-14-26-48-51

)/ &$6+ /,)(

04-10-22-24-42

2

Lucky Money 02-23-30-35LM4

3RZHUEDOO

3,&.

PB13

/2772 03-09-20-30-34-37

Florida Mega Million

Fantasy 5 01-10-17-24-29

3

10-22-42-61-69

7KH 0LDPL 5HG +RWOLQH 3DJH FDQ QRZ EH UHDFKHG WKURXJKRXW 6RXWKHUQ )ORULGD IURP .H\ :HVW XS WKURXJK 2UODQGR &DOO 0LDPL 5HG IRU WKH TXLFNHVW *UH\KRXQG 5HVXOWV 'DGH

*********************************** NUMBERS (2 - Day Results) Send Self Addressed Envelope and $10 to: C. L. Henry or S. H. Robinson P.O. Box 5304 FT FT.. LAUDERDALE, FL 33310 For Enter tainment Purpose Only! Entertainment

MIAMI RED SEZ --- 257

43

36

28

PROFILES

LIBRA-The week may start off cloudy but will soon turn bright if you keep your outlook positive and your thoughts on higher, more optimistic ideas. Be thankful for your wise and generous heart. You have a shining spirit. Jewelry reflects the beauty of my feelings about myself. 8, 45, 51

TAURUS-You can build a bridge with your imagination to reach the person you want to meet. Build the very best bridge your imagination can afford. Your soulmate will then cross over to you. Your intentions are warm and sincere. This week I find joy in the gifts that life has already given me. 28, 37, 44

SCORPIO-Who is your spiritual family? Celebrate your life with these people this week. Offer praise and grace-filled vibrations, and share your blessings. Things on the mundane level are clearing up and working out perfectly. Soul Affirmation: I enjoy discovering new territory this week. 12, 14, 29 SAGITTARIUS-Lots

of creative energy available this week, and you can use this in many creative ways. Whatever your heart tells you to focus on, focus on that. Maintain emotional balance by taking periodic breaks from your work. True friendship is a mirror into which I look to see the beauty of my inner self. 9, 13, 30

CANCER-A happy week is in store for sociable you. Lots of friends and a party or two or three will keep your energy bright. Use caution while driving and watch for a pleasant surprise or two this week. Trust gives me a deep sense of peace and joy. 8, 21, 37

CAPRICORN-Your sense of self is feeling unusually welldefined. And it’s causing you to look confident. People will notice your regal bearing and noble outlook this week. My emotions provide me a pathway into the sunshine of my being. 17, 29, 45

LEO-Lots of creative energy available this week, and you can use this in many creative ways. Whatever your heart tells you to focus on, focus on that. Maintain emotional balance by taking periodic breaks from your work. True friendship is a mirror into which I look to see the beauty of my inner self. 9, 13, 30

AQUARIUS-The week may start off cloudy but will soon turn bright if you keep your outlook positive and your thoughts on higher, more optimistic ideas. Be thankful for your wise and generous heart. You have a shining spirit. Jewelry reflects the beauty of my feelings about myself. 8, 45, 51

LUCKY 7 PYRAMID

PISCES-Who is your spiritual family? Celebrate your life with these people this week. Offer praise and grace-filled vibrations, and share your blessings. Things on the mundane level are clearing up and working out perfectly. I enjoy discovering new territory this week. 12, 14, 29

LAST WEEK'S HITS

NOVEMBER 09 FEB. 11

MAR. 15

352),/(6

9

12 13 14 JULY

16 17 18 19 22 AUG.

21( $50 %$1',7

APRIL

75

12

67

021(< ,1 7+( %$*

, // :,1 72'$<

)/2$7,1* 21 $,5

MAY 34 35 36

37

38 39 44

56 57 57 58 59

49 55

JUNE 48

77 78 79 88 99 00 02 03 04

45 46 47 OCT. 66

67 68 69 NOV.

04 06

06 08 DEC.

Today is WEDNESDAY, NOVEMBER 9, 2017

685( ),5(

7 3

23

The lines that correspond to your birthmonth are your best numbers for today.

78 4247

89

35 '28%/(6

00

5

,6 $ +27 /($' 180%(5

â—‹â—‹â—‹â—‹â—‹â—‹â—‹â—‹â—‹â—‹â—‹â—‹â—‹â—‹â—‹â—‹â—‹â—‹â—‹â—‹â—‹â—‹â—‹â—‹â—‹â—‹â—‹â—‹â—‹â—‹â—‹â—‹â—‹â—‹â—‹â—‹â—‹â—‹â—‹â—‹â—‹â—‹â—‹â—‹â—‹â—‹â—‹â—‹â—‹â—‹â—‹â—‹â—‹â—‹â—‹â—‹â—‹â—‹

Son-Syl Vending Company

SIGNS of the ZODIAC

:25.287

29

33

33 SEPT.

85 *22' 1(:6

ON PREMISES

23 24 25 26 27 28 29

0129 17

545 N.W. 7th Terrace Fort Lauderdale, Fla. Monday -- Friday 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. For more info call (954) 525-1489

ARIES-You feel centered this week and full of efficient energy. Use this week to accomplish tasks, make plans, and finalize arrangements that need to be made. Face into personal responsibilities with love and pleasure now. I am willing to make changes in my life. 20, 21, 24

VIRGO-Your sense of self is feeling unusually welldefined. And it’s causing you to look confident. People will notice your regal bearing and noble outlook this week. My emotions provide me a pathway into the sunshine of my being. 17, 29, 45

WHA T'S HOT? 63-59-65-95-99 WHAT'S

NOVEMBER 9 - NOVEMBER 15, 2017

GEMINI-While those around you may seem disagreeable, mind your own business and don’t take anything personally. Focus your mind on the project you most want to work on this week and put your beautiful energy into that with love. I give my busy brain a rest from worrying this week.16, 48, 51

0DWLQHH 1LWHKRXVH 5HVXOWV %URZDUG

3,&.

HOROSCOPE/NNPA

BREAST CANCER

&$35,&251 &$1&(5

$48$5,86 /(2

3,6&(6 9,5*2

POSITIVE WOMEN T-SHIRTS ON SALE NOW

$5,(6 /,%5$

7$8586 6&253,2

*(0,1, 6$*,77$5,86

Thank You Mr. President T-SHIRTS ON SALE NOW

T-SHIRTS ON SALE NOW

Interested in having a DRINK or SNACK MACHINE placed at your Business, Office, Church or Recreaction Center! CALL US at: (954) 444-7994 OR(954) 646-0330 Evenings (954) 689-8484

Med. Lg. $10 - XL - $12 2X- $13 - 3X - $15 4X & 5X - $20 ALL TT-SHIR -SHIR TS ARE SOLD AATT -SHIRTS THEWESTSIDE GAZETTE NEWSP APER NEWSPAPER

545 N.W er race, N.W.. 7 TTer errace, Fort Lauderdale, Fla.

Med. Lg. $10 - XL - $12 2X- $13 - 3X - $15 4X & 5X - $20

ALL TT-SHIR -SHIR TS ARE SOLD AATT THEWESTSIDE GAZETTE NEWSP APER -SHIRTS NEWSPAPER

545 N.W er race, For dale, Fla. N.W.. 7 TTer errace, Fortt Lauder Lauderdale, To O ts contact SSonia onia RRobinson obinson Orrder ALL T-shir -shirts P.O. BBoox 5304F or dale, FFla. la. 33310 5304For ortt Lauder Lauderdale, Additional Shipping Charges Call Sonia--(954) 646-0330 or call (954) 525-1489


www.thewestsidegazette.com

A Proud Paper For A Proud People

NOVEMBER 9 - NOVEMBER 15, 2017 • PAGE 11

Audrey Gibson wins close vote to lead Senate Democrats #Girlpower shines on the International Day of the Girl Child

A.G. GANCAR On Monday evening, state Sen. Audrey Gibson won a narrow 8-7 vote of Senate Democrats to become Senate Democratic Leader Designate for the 2018-2020 legislative term. Gibson will succeed current Senate Democratic Leader Oscar Braynon II when his term ends next November. The split was described by one observers as moderates versus progressives, a dynamic which some fear will split the caucus; our source tells us Braynon was the deciding vote. In a “you heard it here first” moment, Florida Politics called this in the Oct. 30 edition of

Sunburn. “I look forward to working with Caucus members on their priorities and ensuring their voices are heard on legislation impacting all Floridians. I am also excited about bringing in new Democrat Senators to the Florida Senate to create a legislative balance in the Chamber,” said Gibson Monday evening. Gibson thought she had the votes last week, but our understanding is that there was a late challenge from Orange County Democrat Randolph Bracy. The drama built toward the Monday night vote, yet Gibson — true to her original expecta-

tions and vote count — pulled off the win by the narrowest of margins. The role was to go to former Sen. Jeff Clemens, who resigned in October after admitting an extramarital affair with a lobbyist. For Northeast Florida, this is the second big piece of Senate news on Monday. Fleming Island Republican Rob Bradley took over the Appropriations Committee chair after former budget chief Jack Latvala relinquished that powerful position, as he defends himself against an onslaught of sexual harassment allegations. Senator Gibson, chair of the Senate Military and Veterans Affairs, Space, and Domestic Security Committee, serves on the Senate Appropriations Committee. Her other committee assignments: Appropriations Subcommittee on Transportation, Tourism, and Economic Development, Commerce and Tourism Committee, Judiciary Committee, Regulated Industries Committee, and Joint Legislative Auditing Committee.

First Female African American CWO-5 in the Information Warfare Community Story by Petty Officer 3rd Class Kyle Hafer, Navy Recruiting Command MILLINGTON, TENN. — Chief Warrant Officer (CWO) 5 Valencia Simmons-Fowler is the first African America woman to achieve the highest chief warrant officer rank in the information warfare community, Nov. 3, 2017. The Chicago, Illinois native started her Navy career at Recruit Training Command Orlando, Florida in March 1988. From there she attended Cryptologic Technician Collection (CTR) “A” School where she achieved the notable accomplishment of honor graduate. As her list of successes continued, Simmons-Fowler earned the title of chief petty officer in September 2001 while serving aboard USS Bataan (LHD 5). Later, during her tour at Naval Security Group Activity in Norfolk, Virginia she was selected for the CWO program in 2003, beginning her life as a chief warrant officer. “This was my goal since the beginning of my career,” said

Simmons-Fowler. “I have always strived for the next level, the pinnacle profession, and I earned it.” The historic promotion is the result of hard work and dedication that isn’t achieved alone, but with the help of mentors and shipmates along the way. “None of us ever gets here alone,” said Capt. Alonza Ross, the director of enlisted distribution at Navy Personal Command and mentor to SimmonsFowler. “It takes a lot of support from family, friends and shipmates. I certainly understand how significant this achievement is, and I knew she was capable of doing it.” Inspiration follows this woman who has achieved so much. The protégés that SimmonsFowler mentors see that they also have the opportunity to achieve just as much, if not more. “I am extremely proud of Chief Warrant Officer 5 Simmons-Fowler,” said Yeoman 2nd Class Olivia Likely, a protégé of Simmons-Fowler. (Read full story at: www.thewestsidegazette.com)

Chief Warrant Officer (CWO) 5 Valencia SimmonsFowler was promoted as the first African-American CWO 5. The CWO rank is a technical specialist who performs duties that are directly related to their previous rating. They are accessed from the chief petty officer pay grades E-7 to E-9, and must have a minimum of 14 years of service. (U.S. Navy photo by Petty Officer 3rd Class Kyle Hafer/ Released)

New book, inspired by the author’s 13-year old granddaughter, challenges one million Black men and fathers to make sure their children ‘Know Our Story’ Flint Mayor Karen Weaver ed in eaver,, usher ushered to Fix Water Crisis, now facing recall By Eurpublisher

Jordyn Alexis Ash, the granddaughter of author Tyrone Ash, holds a copy of his book. N A T I O N W I D E (BlackNews.com) — A teenager is challenging a million fathers and a million Black men to make sure their children “Know Our Story”. “What shall I tell my children who are Black?” is a question poised in a poem written by Margaret Burroughs. “Tell my generation the whole story. Tell us the story from the first human on earth, a colored man ... to the most despised people on earth, people of color ... to the most powerful man on earth, a man of color. This is the story my generation needs to be told. This is why, I am challenging a million fathers and a million Black men to make sure their children know our story,” says 13-year old, Jordyn Alexis Ash, grand-

daughter of Tyrone Ash who is the author of The Story GrandPa Told of American and World African Legends and Culture. This individual activity provides fathers and Black men opportunity to be involved in setting the foundation for their children’s future. “Know Our Story” has power to guarantee children increase their knowledge of the essentials of success. This fact is the conclusions of historians and university studies on successful people. Experts concluded, increasing knowledge of self-history and ancestry is essential for success. Do we tell our story to our children? Do our children have access to this knowledge base?

Flint, Michigan’s Mayor Karen Weaver, elected two years ago promising to clean the city’s lead-tainted water and to restore trust in government, after previous leaders brought poisoned water to the city and ignored residents’ complaints, is now facing a recall election that could cut her four-yearterm short.

Flint Mayor Weaver speaks at a press conference after hosting a congressional delegation at a community forum about the City of Flint’s water crises March 4, 2016 in Flint, Mich. (Read full story at: www.thewestsidegazette.com)

Girls and young women are the future of tomorrow. Despite the incalculable obstacles they often face in daily life, such as discrimination, abuse and discouragement from pursuing their dreams, many find the strength to persevere and succeed. To celebrate and empower girls and young women to embrace their aspirations and take charge of their health, AIDS Healthcare Foundation (AHF) hosted events in ten countries on Oct. 11 in commemoration of the International Day of the Girl Child (IDGC). In addition to offering free services and information on sexual health and HIV prevention, AHF also put the spotlight on lack of access to feminine hygiene products in Africa. AHF donated 1 million free sanitary pads to girls in Africa, so that they don’t have to miss school during their menstruation period – a frequent occurrence among girls who cannot afford sanitary pads. Below is a roundup of photos from these inspirational, heartwarming events: UgandaHundreds gathered in Uganda to receive messages on empowerment and self-confidence in recognition of IDGC. After health officials accepted AHF’s sanitary pad donation, participating girls gave testimonials of their experiences and listened to community leaders speak on the value of education and HIV prevention. Nigeria AHF Nigeria supported the IDGC by formally handing over its share of the 1 million sanitary pads and holding an event at a local school. The Nigeria Ministry of Women’s Affairs accepted the donation, then AHF hosted girls from rural Abuja the following day, which included information sessions on feminine hygiene and HIV/AIDS awareness, prevention, treatment and care. Zambia AHF Zambia held an official ceremony with government officials, who accepted the country’s share of its sanitary pads. Hundreds of women and girls were in attendance to receive free t-shirts and hygiene products, then heard empowering messages about the importance of gender equality. South Africa AHF South Africa’s Girls Act event in the Eastern Cape drew over 600 participants from four local schools. Girls received tshirts and sanitary pads, then attended workshops on menstrual hygiene, HIV and STIs, self-esteem and the importance of staying in school. Rwanda A successful IDGC campaign culminated on Oct. 18 in Kigali as students from two schools gathered for an event that was the highlight of a week-long initiative. Both girls and boys joined together and were encouraged to be actively involved in their own prevention programs that focused on avoiding illegal drugs and reinforcing healthy sex practices and lifestyles to avoid unwanted pregnancies and HIV/STIs. Lesotho A four-team netball and soccer tournament were the highlight of AHF Lesotho’s “Keep the Promise to #Girlpower” IDGC event. To help protect young women and girls, the primary messages for the effort were focused on keeping girls in school and stopping child marri-ages—an all too common prac-tice that leads to increased risks of contracting HIV, suffering abuse from domestic violence and complications during pregnancy. China An inventive campaign resulted in an atmosphere of tolerance and non-discrimination during AHF China’s “Keep the Promise to Girls” event. Its celebration paired HIV negative children with AHF-sponsored students from the Linfen Red

UGANDA

NIGERIA

ZAMBIA

SOUTH AFRICA

RWANDA

LESOTHO

CHINA

INDIA Ribbon School. Thanks to complimentary Disneyland tickets, the children visited the theme park in Shanghai while promoting equality and education about HIV/AIDS. India IDCG events in India icluded peaceful demonstrations a-

gainst gender-based violence, along with inform-ation sesions and discussions. AHF India organized a panel to promote awareness of violence against women and to emphasize ening misconceptions and the discrimination often tied to HIV/ AIDS.


PAGE 12 • NOVEMBER 9 - NOVEMBER 15, 2017

A Proud Paper For A Proud People

www.thewestsidegazette.com


Turn static files into dynamic content formats.

Create a flipbook
Issuu converts static files into: digital portfolios, online yearbooks, online catalogs, digital photo albums and more. Sign up and create your flipbook.