Daytona Times, May 30, 2019

EE FR

RELL BLACK: BETHUNE-COOKMAN, BEYONCÉ AND SAVING HBCUS PAGE 4 DAYTONATIMES.COM

NOW UPDATED DAILY!

B-CU TRACK STAR HEADING TO NATIONALS SEE PAGE 7

@DAYTONATIMES

MAY 30 - JUNE 5, 2019

YEAR 44 NO. 22

www.daytonatimes.com

READY FOR JUNETEENTH Retired singer will be honored as Hometown Hero

BY ANDREAS BUTLER DAYTONA TIMES

One of Daytona Beach’s centenarians will be among the locals honored as a Hometown Hero at this year’s Juneteenth banquet.

Mrs. Narcissus Brown, 100, is a retired professional singer who continues to make her mark in this community.

“I feel honored. I am blessed and I am thankful,” she told the Daytona Times.

The Juneteenth Festival Committee believes that honoring locals is the right thing to do during its Hometown Heroes salute at its annual banquet.

“It is important for us to hon-

or our hometown heroes. They make this a better place to live.

They have given so much to us.

It’s easier to honor those who have a lot of money and donate but why not those who don’t and just give their time, heart and energy,” said Linda McGhee, chair of Daytona Beach’s Juneteenth events.

Banquet, then festival Daytona Beach’s Juneteenth Festival is one of the largest in the state and attracts vendors from around Florida.

This year’s Juneteenth banquet is set for 7 p.m. Wednesday, June 12, in the Mori Hosseini Student Union Building at EmbryRiddle Aeronautical University, 600 Clyde Morris Blvd., Daytona Beach. The event is $35 per person.

The festival will take place on Saturday, June 15, in Daytona’s Cypress Park, at 925 George W. Engram Blvd., from 11 a.m. until 7 p.m.

Worthy of honor Juneteenth commemorates the day when slaves in Texas and Oklahoma found out that they were free in 1867, which was two years following the American Civil War. The official day celebrated is June 19, 1865.

The event started in Texas but has spread across the country.

McGhee says Brown is more than worthy to be honored this year.

“With her legacy and contributions to everyone, she is an example of how we should be. She is religious, kind and she is a givSee HERO, Page 2

DAYTONA TIMES / 40TH ANNIVERSARY

Jabberwock queens crowned, Cherry returns

Mrs. Narcissus Brown, 100, who once sang at the White House, will be honored at the Juneteenth banquet in Daytona Beach.

‘Scary and very exciting’ time for high school grad

BY ANDREAS BUTLER DAYTONA TIMES

For the thousands of local high school seniors in the Volusia County School system, this week is a joyous time as graduations are upon us.

Daytona Beach resident and Seabreeze High School senior K’Moya Brown is among the graduates. Seabreeze’s graduation is at 4 p.m. May 31 at the Daytona Beach Ocean Center.

“It is both very scary and very exciting at the same time,” Brown told the Daytona Times.

Brown is graduating with a 3.6 grade point average and magna cum laude honors. She was part of the Advancement Via Indi-

vidual Achievement (AVID) program, which is a college readiness program designed to help students develop skills needed to be successful in college. She’s also a member of the National Honors Society.

Earned associates too In addition, Brown earned her associates degree while in high school by doing dual enrollment at Daytona State College.

“It’s a lot of work….it’s actually doing two schools at once,” said Brown.

On top of that, Brown works part time at a local McDonald’s.

“It is hard at times having a job See GRAD, Page 2

Left to right: Dr. Masood Poorandi, Dr. Allen Pelley, Ms. Lawana Walden and Dr. Hector N. Torres

B-CU receives $1,199,901 grant for STEM project SPECIAL TO THE DAYTONA TIMES

Fifteen years ago in 2004, the Daytona Times reported on the Daytona Beach Alumnae Chapter of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority’s annual Jabberwock spectacular, and on the return of Daytona Times Founder Charles W. Cherry, Sr.’s return to his Daytona Beach City Commission Zone 6 seat after successful open heart surgery.

ALSO INSIDE

The National Science Foundation has awarded a grant of $1,199,901 to Bethune-Cookman University for support of a project entitled “Developing Effective Mathematical Sciences School Teachers for High-Need Middle Schools.”

With support from the Robert Noyce Teacher Scholarship Program, this Track 1 Scholarships & Stipends project at BethuneCookman University (B-CU),

aims to serve the national need of increasing the number of highquality mathematics teachers.

Goal and strategy The overall goal of the five-year Robert Noyce Scholarship project at B-CU, which runs from July 1, 2019–June 30, 2024, is to encourage talented science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) undergraduate students to pursue mathematical sciences teaching careers in elementary and secondary schools, especially in high-needs educational agencies.

The overall strategy for developing highly effective mathematical sciences teachers is to support scholars in the attainment of dual degrees in a STEM discipline and mathematics education.

See GRANT, Page 2

COMMENTARY: E. FAYE WILLIAMS: LIKE MOREHOUSE DONOR, PAY IT FORWARD HOWEVER YOU CAN | PAGE 4 NATION: IOTA PHI LAMBDA SORORITY CELEBRATES 90 YEARS WITH CALL TO ACTION | PAGE 5

7 FOCUS

R 2

MAY 30 – JUNE 5, 2019

GRANT from Page 1 Collaboration of colleges

Campbell celebrates eighth-graders on May 24

Above: May 24 was the graduation day for eighth-graders at Campbell Middle School.

Campbell Middle School held its annual Earl C. McCrary II Eighth Grade End-of-the-Year Celebration on May 24. The graduation ceremony for eighth graders was held in the school gymnasium.

The speaker was Dr. Donovan V. Wells, director of bands at Bethune-Cookman University. Also on the program was Susan Freeman, area superintendent of Volusia County Schools.

Dr. Jerry L. Picott is the principal of Campbell Middle.

McCrary was a former principal of the school and former Volusia County school board member.

Campbell is located at 625 South Keech St., Daytona Beach.

Right: Dr. Donovan Wells addresses the Campbell students.

PHOTOS BY DUANE C. FERNANDEZ / HARDNOTTSPHOTOGRAPHY. COM

GRAD

with each separately.

“It was pretty challenging at times, but my family did all they could for me.

I was raised by both my mother and grandmother although I often lived with Grandma. I appreciate their help and sacrifices for me,” Brown remarked.

from Page 1 and going to school. We can spend too much time working than actually going to school. You have to balance but you have to do your school work as well,” responded Brown.

Graduation week is a busy time for all seniors.

There are award ceremonies, banquets, rehearsal, getting clothing, hairstyles, invitations and more.

“There are still a lot of things to do leading up to graduation. It’s quite busy,” she noted.

Wants to be doctor Brown is headed to Florida A&M University (FAMU), where she has earned a full ride and will pursue a degree in premedicine.

Brown told the Times, “I want to be a pediatric cardiologist. I have always been inspired by Dr. Ben Carson’s story “Gifted Hands.’’ I don’t follow his politics, but I’ve always been motivated and inspired by his story.”

Four years of high school was no cakewalk for

HERO from Page 1 er,” McGhee noted.

“She does it without asking for anything back. She is good to everyone and will help with everything.

Her longevity shows that God has blessed her and she is healthy, in her right mind.’’

Sings, volunteers

A proud grandma

K’Moya Brown will graduate from Seabreeze on May 31. Through dual enrollment, she also has earned an associates from Daytona State College.

Brown.

Brown admitted, “The biggest thing that I had was procrastinating with deadlines, assignments, etc. I did get stuff done late sometimes, but I did get it done.”

Excelling despite odds Brown grew up in a single-mother household.

She is the oldest of three siblings. Her twin sis-

White House for President George H.W. Bush in 1988 at the age of 88.

“It was marvelous and surreal. I was surrounded by so many people and I was being asked so many questions that I couldn’t answer them all. I was amped up,” recalls Brown.

She has sung a lot in choirs and on gospel circuits, which her family often did. She comes from a religious family and is the godmother of gospel artist Kurt Carr.

Even at her age, Brown stays active, is highly motivated and having fun.

“It’s only the Lord God! He allows me to do all things. I put all my trust and desires in his hands.

He keeps my eyes open; I can still get around. I take care of myself. I am in right body and mind,” she said.

She still volunteers her time and helps out when she can. Brown still sings – when asked – at church and community events.

“Oh, yes, I’ll still sing if asked. I just can’t stand…

I’m on a walker. I’m 100, but I’m just living and enjoying life. I was brought up in a religious family, which always helped out when needed,” she related.

Global performances

Sang for president

Pittsburgh native

Brown

sang

at

the

Brown also has performed on the “Bobby Jones Gospel Hour’ ‘and the “Bing Cosby Show’’ as well as for various elected officials around the country.

While singing, Brown mostly did gospel but did dabble in other genres. Her singing helped her see the world.

“I sang with (jazz musician) Erroll Garner. He wanted me to sing in a club, but I was skeptical.

My family was religious, but they allowed me to. I ended up singing in Germany and France,” Brown recalled.

Born on Feb. 18, 1919

ter, K’Maya, is a junior at Seabreeze, and her brother, Markello, is 11.

“I was always motivated and inspired by my surroundings. I live in an area with high poverty, drugs and crime. I want better for myself and family,” said Brown.

Brown was raised by both her mother, Lakeisha Green, and grandmother, Victoria Green-Marion.

She has spent time living

in South Boston, Virginia, she relocated with her parents to Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, when she was 9.

She graduated from high school there.

She moved to Daytona Beach in 1990 to be cared for by her daughter, Nadine Spencer.

Brown has worked at Children and Families in Volusia County and the Center for the Blind in Daytona Beach. She at-

Brown will be the first of her grandmother’s grandchildren to graduate high school and attend college.

Her grandmother has always seen her granddaughters’ drive.

“K’Moya has always been very determined.

One thing we did was instill in her at an early age to have determination and be goal-driven. She is very smart, intelligent, outgoing, outspoken and hard working. She loves people, life and family,” emphasized Green-Marion.

‘Determined and focused’ Brown’s mother is also proud of her.

Green said, “She has always been determined and focused. Her dream of being a pediatric cardiologist has been there for the longest. She always was focused when it came to aca-

tends Greater Friendship Missionary Baptist Church.

A widower, she is the mother of three, and has three grandchildren and four great-grandchildren.

Brown does have some advice for young people.

“My talent didn’t take me too far, but any youngster with a talent should try to develop that talent and use it mainly to serve God,” she said.

demics. It wasn’t easy raising her and her siblings, but we did put God first and education second.”

Credits computer center In addition, Brown credits a small computer center at the Pine Haven Apartments with assisting her with academic success.

She spent plenty of days in the Pine Haven Neighborhood Networks Center, which is part of Neighborhood Networks, a nonprofit learning and technology center aimed at helping low and moderate income families with selfsufficiency through technology. The program is under the Daytona Beach Housing Authority.

Brown expressed, “What really helped me academically was having that computer center there. I didn’t have the internet or a computer at home. Fortunate-

The Robert Noyce Teacher Scholarship Project is a collaboration between the College of Science, Engineering and Mathematics (Department of Mathematics) and the College of Education (Mathematics Education Program).

The Department of Mathematics is lead by Dr. Masood Poorandi, principal investigator, while the mathematics component of the project is directed by Dr. Allen Pelley, co-principal investigator and associate professor of mathematics.

The mathematics education is directed by Dr. Hector N. Torres, co-principal investigator and associate professor of mathematics and science education.

Lawana Walden, instructor and co-principal investigator and coordinator of teacher education will coordinate efforts with the local school districts.

ly, I was able to the center and do my homework, write papers, take online classes and do projects. It really helped me a lot with school.”

Advice for others Due to restructuring, that center has closed.

“I dislike the fact that it’s closed. Summer is coming up and a lot of kids don’t have anything to do. Places like that help keep kids out of trouble. It’s another avenue for them. They could at least go there for an hour,” said Brown.

With life’s challenges ahead, Brown is ready to give it a go.

“Life won’t be easy, but I am up for the challenge,” she noted.

Her advice to other youth is quite simple.

“Stay focused and stay determined. Prioritize education,’’ she added.

3 7

M A YNEWS OR

MAY 30 – JUNE 5, 2019 COMMUNITY DECEMBER 14 - 20, 2006

Daphne Cooper returns to AACS for June 7 show Chauncey Dunham of A Dante Production, LLC, has worked the last year making certain his production company climbs the heights of attaining “the premier concert company status of North Central Florida.”

Chauncey, a visionary of the concert arena, released a news brief that he’s always used multiple strategies to ensure that his entertainers are the best of the best. However, he’s gotten the surprise of his career when recently a young lady insisted she could sing.

Accustomed to hearing this from people who claim they can sing, Chauncey challenged the young lady, saying, “If you can sing, I have a job for you.”

She was invited to showcase her talent at the African American Cultural Society (AACS) of Palm Coast for a “First Friday” event on May 3.

But, after providing such a bold invitation, fear then set in.

May 3 arrived, and fear mounted.

The young lady, Daphne Cooper, was presented onstage, and Chauncey and the audience were spellbound.

Daphne blew the roof off the building.

Audience members subsequently asked Chauncey to bring Daphne back.

And, on June 7, the AACS will host Daphne’s return, beginning 4:30 p.m.

Jones High, military Her musical journey began in Orlando at the age of 8 while singing in the children’s choir at church. Being drawn to become a member of the Jones High School Choir, it was there that she cultivated a musical taste and interest.

She later served in the U.S. Army as a military police officer. And, she shared her gift as a member of the Army Entertainment USA Express’ Top 40 Band.

PALM COAST COMMUNITY NEWS

PHOTO BY JEROLINE D. MCCARTHY/DAYTONA TIMES

Featured are vocalist Lois Williams, Chauncey Dunham, Dante Production CEO, and committee chair Alton Dempsey.

JEROLINE D. MCCARTHY

She embarked upon a one-year international tour, entertaining armed-forces personnel, civilians and distinguished guests from around the world.

Daphne is a multi-talented vocalist who, not only sings, but dances, reads music, and teaches.

She’s college educated in music performance.

She uses the skills to perform for various venues, including a multitude of bands and musicians from across the globe.

Daphne brings her sultry, witty, crowd-pleasing lines and comedic persona of 10-plus years to the many stages in Orlando and the surrounding areas.

Award-winning talent Performing, as a featured artist for four-plus years at Maitland’s Jazz Tastings, her graceful yet funky talent has allowed her to be the opening act for Grammy-award artists Ivan Neville’s Dumpstaphunk, Buckwheat Zydeco, Trombone Shorty, and Robert Cray.

Daphne has won awards and scholarships for her talent, but continues to pay forward teaching young children the art of music.

There’s no doubt that once you’ve seen this electrifying performer, you’ll have an irresistible urge to stand on your feet and groove to the music.

Her versatility is unmatched, and her captivating, high-energy performance transforms her audience to a place where there are no limits and all things are possible.

Daphne is as intriguing offstage, and you’ll never be the same after you’ve simply caught a glance.

President Vivian Richardson is shown with Wanyea Barbel, Gabrielle Wong, Nia Felton, Leah Simpson and Janiah Civil, along with vice president Wes Powell.

COURTESY OF A DANTE PRODUCTION

Daphne Cooper brings her sultry, witty, crowd-pleasing lines and comedic persona.

Music and more at First Spring Tee “Are you enjoying the music?” asked vocalist Lois Williams.

“I am a lover of the classics.

How about you?” she inquired of the audience while aligning her beautiful Etta James’ sensation, “At Last.”

Williams again rocked the venue of the African American Cultural Society with disco queen Donna Summer’s “Last Dance.”

She was a guest artist for the First Spring Tee, which went into swing, backed by A Dante Production with its CC&D Band. Williams is also an integral part of A Dante Production.

The Men of AACS (African American Cultural Society) sponsored the fundraiser, chaired by Alton Dempsey and with Berkeley Chandler Men of AACS Chairman.

Complementing the show were hors d’oeuvres, a cash bar, door prizes, and the fantastic band, ushering in such favorites as “Let’s Stay Together” and “What’s Going On.” The function of the Men of AACS is to serve and provide manual and financial assistance in connection with the upkeep and maintenance of the AACS cultural center. The members are men ages 18 and older, who volunteer to serve the purpose of the center.

COURTESY OF THE AFRO-AMERICAN CARIBBEAN HERITAGE ORGANIZATION

AACHO to present $1,000 scholarships President Vivian Richardson writes that the Afro-American Caribbean Heritage Organization (AACHO) is proud to award $1,000 each to its 2019 scholarship recipients.

The awardees and their families have also landed invitations to AACHO’s annual June 15 cookout, 11:30 a.m. to 4 p.m., in Pavilion 1 of James F. Holland Memorial Park, 18 Florida Park Drive North, Palm Coast.

Take advantage of the Caribbean cuisine, barbecue, music, games and more!

AACHO members and friends from the New York City Retired Vulcan Men’s Club will also be in attendance.

The cookout is free for AACHO members. All are welcome.

Moreover, AACHO’s June 18 meeting will take place in the Realty Exchange meeting room, 5 p.m., in the Island Walk Shopping Center, 300 Palm Coast Parkway, Palm Coast.

AACHO members will take July and August as their summer hiatus.

They will resume meeting on

Sept. 17, 5 p.m.

Daytona AAEA launches June 18 President Leslie Giscombe is proud to launch the AfricanAmerican Entrepreneurs Association’s (AAEA) Daytona Beach chapter.

That’s June 18, 6 to 8 p.m., at Daytona State College, UCF Building, 1200 West International Speedway Blvd., Room 209, Daytona Beach.

They’ve set in motion a “Meet and Greet” as well as information sessions on start-ups, networking, workshops and consultations.

Refreshments will be served.

For further information, call 386-234-2014, or log on at www. aaeassociation. org.

••• As always, remember our prayers for the sick, afflicted, the prodigal son, or daughter, and the bereaved.

Celebrations Birthday wishes to Melanee Gaddis, Emma Kendrick and Emma Wilson, June 3.

Grab. Go. Enjoy.

When you’re starved for time, make lunch the everyday easy way with quick and delicious bites that are ready when you are. Just stop by the Publix Grab & Go Deli Case for sandwiches, salads, sides, and more.

R4

7 EDITORIAL

MAY 30 – JUNE 5, 2019

Bethune-Cookman, Beyoncé and saving HBCUs America is a beautiful country with a mysterious past. From general textbook ideologies and what most would call "common sense" standards, we have chosen to accept whatever is flashed in front of our eyes, despite what is written in stone.

In this country, the supposed land of the free, there was a time when a young scholar such as me would not be admitted to a state college or university. In fact, during our time in bondage, if one of us were to be caught reading, we'd be severely beaten.

We kept trying Blacks being educated truly became a threat. Therefore, we did what we always do as a people, always do: we overcame and we persevered! With the powers that be consistently and constantly attempting to erase and smudge our cultural history, this is one piece of our puzzle that cannot be disrespected: Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs).

For an entire generation of Black students, it was the only choice they had, simply because they were Black – not because of their academic prowess, or lack thereof. We were not allowed to expand our minds and elevate our level of consciousness, be-

RELL BLACK GUEST COLUMNIST

cause knowledge is the greatest weapon of all.

Instead, HBCUs were first established to provide higher education to emancipated Blacks, specifically because they were unwelcome at majority institutions as part of Jim Crow laws.

(The U.S currently has 106 HBCUs, with one in the U.S. Virgin Islands.)

On April 27, global superstar Beyoncé released "Homecoming", a stunning two-hour musical documentary which critics hailed as her magnum-opus.

The concert documentary captured her preparing for her historic headlining set at last year's Coachella concert (nicknamed “Beychella”) and was a true ode and homage to the culture, music and luscious history of HBCUs everywhere.

Serious lineup Featuring an array of 65 dancers, a 30-piece marching band, a Black orchestra, and several dance tributes including a pep

School vouchers are a failed experiment School privatization has been a dismal failure, leaving students stranded in low-performing schools while transferring millions of taxpayer dollars into private, for-profit institutions.

The latest proof that private school vouchers don’t work for students emerged from an investigation in Louisiana conducted by several news outlets. “The Cost of Choice” revealed that the state’s $40 million-a-year voucher program has pulled thousands of students out of public schools into failing private schools that receive almost no oversight.

Poor performance A full two-thirds of all students in the voucher system attended schools rated “D” or “F” under the state’s assessment system.

There are 86 private schools that have accepted voucher students, but most don’t have enough students enrolled to be assigned a

MARC H. MORIAL TRICE EDNEY NEWS WIRE

grade. But of the 37 that do, not a single school scored “A” or “B” and only three received a “C.” The investigation found that students have left “C-rated” public schools to attend “D-” and “Frated” private schools.

The Louisiana investigation is hardly the first to demonstrate the failure of voucher programs.

When the Trump administration unveiled a budget that sought to divert public funds from bipartisan education programs into privatization efforts, Senator Patty Murray, ranking member of the Health, Education, Labor & Pensions Committee, compiled

Pay it forward however you can Among the worst behavior of the man in the White House that one could ever imagine, there is still so much good in the world.

As we remember Memorial Day, when we thank military men and women, remember to thank Dr. Robert F. Smith. He set an awesome example of how those who’re so blessed can help others who’ve not been.

Sunday May 19 was already a special day because it was the birthday of Malcolm X. Then came the Morehouse graduation and the wonderful announcement of the graduation speaker who talked about his blessings and announced that he’d be donating enough funds to wipe out the student loan debt of Morehouse’s nearly 400 members of the 2019 graduating class!

DR. E. FAYE WILLIAMS, ESQ. TRICE EDNEY NEWS WIRE

What did we hear?

Once he made the statement, there were a lot of questions such as, “Did I understand correctly what he just said?” Suddenly the students stood in unity realizing they really weren’t going to be saddled with the heavy student debt they’d incurred while getting an education.

It’s possible many of them didn’t know that graduates of Historically Black Colleges and

rally, drill calls and even a bit of “swag surfing,” the 23-time Grammy winner proved that she still has the ability to represent and expose our culture to the biggest platforms in the world.

While many in the initial audience were visibly confused and puzzled by all the unapologetic Blackness, folks like me who grew up hearing Bethune Cookman's marching band practicing outside my window felt right at home.

In Daytona Beach, we have one of the world's most prestigious and elite HBCUs. It's time we truly do what we can to preserve its legacy. With countless attacks from media sources and upset former board members, the university's business matters became public topics. With millions owed to investors and a public smear campaign fueled by the questionable antics board members, this hit comes at a time when HBCUs generally are under attack.

U.S. Department of Education Secretary Betsy DeVos made a public comment calling HBCUs "pioneers of free choice" and has pushed lobbying to defund such universities. Free choice? More like the only choice. Once again attempting to rewrite history, despite what is already set in stone. Ironically, the same De-

a devastating memo detailing the damaging impact of school privatization programs across the country.

Private schools that siphon taxpayer dollars from public schools are able to skirt the accountability and reporting requirements to which public schools are subject.

In many cases, there’s simply no way for parents to compare student performance in private schools with public school, or to make sure that the private school meets even the most basic standards required of public schools.

Furthermore, the cost of attending private schools, including those that accept vouchers, usually exceeds the amount of the voucher, putting the voucher program out of reach for lowincome families. In many cases, voucher programs merely publicly subsidize tuition for students who already were attending the private schools – often violating the principle of separation of church and state, since many of the schools are religiously affiliated.

Immune from laws Of particular concern to the

Universities have higher debt after graduating than students at other schools. With a price tag of $50,000 per year at Morehouse, these students were about to be included in that number.

With Dr. Smith’s announcement, lives were suddenly changed. It was such a blessing to see young men making commitments to pay it forward. Especially gratifying was the announcement of a couple of young graduates who’d already made a commitment to give back at least $100,000 to Morehouse by the time they are 32 years old.

Now they were looking at doing it sooner because they would no longer be saddled with massive student debt.

Imagine how many thoughts went through the minds of these young men about how they could pay it forward! May they never forget how blessed they are, but also may they never forget there’s still a student debt crisis. Those who’ve been blessed as they have should add to their lists ways

VISUAL VIEWPOINT: ‘FACEBOOK’ NEWS

DAVID FITZSIMMONS

Vos had spoken at B-CU’s commencement speech months earlier.

Comments like hers prove that while we have fought, conquered and truly transcended as a people, we will always face the most hate when we attempt to break the greatest barrier of all: education.

Time to get involved With an enormous amount of attention being paid on the fight for HBCUs, we must utilize every resource in the arsenal. So far, an incredible amount of donations, support and enthusiasm has come from alumni as well as public figures. Saving our Black

Time to drop vouchers

they can rise to the challenge of helping others.

house, has made a big leap for humankind. We may never be able to match the gift of Dr. Smith that is more than about the money he gave. It’s about that spirit of “lifting as we climb” that many of us learned in grade school.

Let us get back to that and our communities will be better for our effort. Keep in mind that he just founded his business in 2000 and look what he’s done! He’s donated to other worthy causes.

Other pledges coming?

I pray that others who’ve been blessed as Dr. Smith has, will join him in making similar pledges to young women and other young men throughout the nation who struggle daily to get an education.

I remember the day I gave my first donation to my alma mater, Grambling University. It didn’t even come close to what Dr. Smith did, but I did my best with what I had. His doing so much at one time should not discourage each HBCU graduate to do a little bit on a regular basis.

Predominantly and historically Black colleges and universities have never been given their fair share when compared with other colleges and universities, but we should be that bridge over troubled waters until HBCUs are treated with fairness.

Dr. Smith, who received an honorary doctorate from More-

CREDO OF THE BLACK PRESS The Black Press believes that Americans can best lead the world away from racism and national antagonism when it accords to every person, regardless of race, color or creed, full human and legal rights. Hating no person, fearing no person. The Black Press strives to help every person in the firm belief...that all are hurt as long as anyone is held back.

Dr. Glenn W. Cherry, Sales Manager

W W W. DAY T O N AT I M E S .C O M

Dr. Valerie Rawls-Cherry, Human Resources

Charles W. Cherry, Sr. (1928-2004), Founder Julia T. Cherry, Senior Managing Member, Central Florida Communicators Group, LLC Dr. Glenn W. Cherry, Cassandra CherryKittles, Charles W. Cherry II, Managing Members

Rell Black is an award-winning activist, blogger and the founder of Community Healing Project Inc.

Urban League Movement is the way in which voucher programs undermine civil rights protection. In response to the nation’s long history of discrimination in schools, Congress passed civil rights laws to give every child in the United States access to a quality education. Most voucher programs fail ensure that private schools receiving taxpayer dollars be held to these civil rights standards.

“Under privatization programs, schools receive an evergrowing share of taxpayer funding but are free to choose the students they want, the rules they follow, and the practices they believe in, ignoring accountability and transparency for public dollars,” Murray and her staff wrote in the 2017 memo.

“In addition, voucher programs across the country have shown evidence of fraud, such as embezzlement of funds and submitting applications and receiving funding for nonexistent students. This occurs while simultaneously depleting needed resources for public schools and shortchanging students.”

Charles W. Cherry II, Esq., Publisher

Opinions expressed on this editorial page are those of the writers, and do not necessarily reflect the editorial stance of the newspaper or the publisher.

universities is not only a chance to educate the minds of the next generation, there's also here to liberate and empower.

So no matter if you're a Bethune-Cookman Wildcat, or a FAMU Rattler, or if you attended any of the iconic HBCUs. Carry your head high and understand you are truly apart of the elevation of our race as a whole. An HBCU is more than just a Black school. It's Black memories, Black moments and, ultimately Black history.

Jenise Morgan, Senior Editor Angela van Emmerik, Creative Director Cassandra Cherry Kittles, Willie R. Kittles, Circulation Andreas Butler, Staff Writer Duane Fernandez Sr., Kim Gibson, Photojournalists

MEMBER

Florida Press Association

National Newspaper Publishers Association

Society of Professional Journalists

National Newspaper Association

Associated Press

It’s clear that we, as a nation – and as communities invested in providing all children with a quality education that prepares them for college, work and life – must turn away from the failed voucher experiment and toward strengthening and improving our public schools.

As the National Urban League made clear in its recent analysis of state plans to comply with the Every Student Succeeds Act, we believe students, parents and community stakeholders should adopt a vision of education reform and innovation that expands and deepens opportunity, upends inequity, accelerates progress and delivers more fully on the promise of education.

Learn more about how the National Urban League’s Equity and Excellence Project is supporting local, state and national advocacy, engagement and education reform efforts, and join the conversation by following @NatUrbanLeague on social media.

Marc Morial is president and CEO of the National Urban League.

Be proud Twenty years from now, try to be proud when you look back and count the difference you’ve made in the lives of others. We don’t have to match Dr. Smith.

Let’s just give all we can give and serve all the great causes we can serve. That’s still paying it forward.

Dr. E. Faye Williams is national chair of the National Congress of Black Women, Inc. Contact her via www.nationalcongressbw.org.

Central Florida Communicators Group, LLC, P.O. Box 48857 Tampa, FL 33646, publishes the Daytona Times on Thursdays. Phone: 877-352-4455, toll-free. For all sales inquiries, call 877-352-4455; e-mail sales@flcourier.com.

Subscriptions to the print version are $69 per year. Mail check to P.O. Box 48857 Tampa, Fl 33646, or log on to www.daytonatimes.com; click on ‘Subscribe.’

SUBMISSIONS POLICY SEND ALL SUBMISSIONS TO NEWS@DAYTONATIMES.COM Deadline for submitting news and pictures is 5 p.m. the Monday before the Thursday publication date. You may submit articles at any time. However, current events received prior to deadline will be considered before any information that is submitted, without the Publisher’s prior approval, after the deadline. Press releases, letters to the editor, and guest commentaries must be e-mailed to be considered for publication.

The Daytona Times reserves the right to edit any submission, and crop any photograph, for style and clarity. Materials will not be returned.

5 7

NATION MA YOR

MAY 30 –14JUNE 5, 2019 DECEMBER - 20, 2006

and the Malawi police have done a really good job securing ballots,” Kamwangala said. “Most polling stations didn’t open at 6 a.m. as it was supposed to, but at 6:30. However, those that opened late stayed open late,” she said.

With isolated incidents of individuals attempting to bribe voters and some other complaints, Kamwangala said she and her team were able to direct election monitors to areas that could have been compromised.

“We were able to go to places and we observed that everyone could clearly see which vote went to which candidate and that no one was denied the right to vote,” Kamwangala said.

“Everyone had to sign off on the election sheets that went to the Tally Center,” she said.

Not worried

NNPA President and CEO, Dr Benjamin F. Chavis, Jr., (far right) invited Kettie Kamwangala (far left) and other Malawian women leaders for an open discussion while the ballots were being counted after a historic voter turnout across Malawi.

Women play key role in ensuring African democracy

BY STACY M. BROWN NNPA NEWSWIRE

LILONGWE MALAWI, AFRICA – Throughout this southeastern African nation of nearly 20 million residents, the strength and resiliency of women is on display 24 hours each day. The sustainability of democracy in any nation can be evaluated by the inclusive leadership roles performed by women in its social, political and economic life.

According to statistics from the World Population Review, nearly half (49.1 percent) of Malawi’s population is comprised of women – several of whom work as many as three jobs while providing needed care for their husbands and families.

When the nation’s one-party era ended in the early 1990s, giving way to a democratic system, the nation’s fairer gender was at

“These are the issues every woman should stand behind and not let anyone try to reduce their importance. Women are able to do great things given the opportunity.”

Thenjiwe Mthintso

The Republic of South Africa High Commissioner to Malawi the forefront of social transformation.

Having elected a woman twice in its relatively short Democracy – H.E. Joyce Banda, as president — the country now awaits the results from the 2019 Tripartite election.

Monitored elections While the top three candidates this year are all men, women have again taken a leadership

role in ensuring free and fair elections and they’ve been largely responsible for what’s believed to have been an electoral race free of determinative manipulation.

“The last election in 2014, we were just being informed and had a lot of trust in government but there were so many rumors of [corruption] and the president was sworn in during the night, it wasn’t a day event, and we felt there was no one here to fight for our rights,” said Kettie Kamwan-

gala, the country director of Medobal Health, a company that provides health care solution in partnership with Malawian businesses and the nation’s Society of Medical Doctors to offer direct access to expert surgeons in India.

“This year, we had our eyes opened and we made sure that we were included from the beginning of the process in the printing of the ballots which was done in Dubai,” Kamwangala said.

Open discussion As she sat alongside her colleagues, each of whom joined her in monitoring this year’s election, Kamwangala spoke favorably of authorities who worked to ensure that there was no interference with the election process, particularly making certain that ballots were properly delivered and counted.

NNPA President and CEO, Dr. Benjamin F. Chavis, Jr., invited Kamwangala and other Malawian women leaders for an open discussion while the ballots were being counted after a historic voter turnout across Malawi.

“The Malawi Defense Force

Business sorority celebrates 90 years with call to action

It is also why, during a closing speech at a Women’s Conference, Thenjiwe Mthintso, the Republic of South Africa High Commissioner to Malawi, continued to encourage Malawian women to remain firm.

Mthintso called for a non-negotiable attitude toward gender equality.

“Gender equality should never be something we negotiate,” Mthintso said.

“These are the issues every woman should stand behind and not let anyone try to reduce their importance. Women are able to do great things given the opportunity,” she said.

Helping teens, moms

Iota Phi Lambda Sorority, the first Black Greek-lettered business sorority, was established in 1929 in Chicago. reasons for loss of Black business growth, including a tight labor market, challenges with recruiting and retaining employees and lack of capital and cash flow.

‘Buy Black’

Equipping others “There’s an issue with sustaining Black-owned businesses,” outgoing 22nd National Iota Phi Lambda President Stephanie Dilworth said. “On June 1, our organization will celebrate 90 years of nationwide service, so it is extra important that we continue to help support our communities and work to build economic opportunities, specifically geared toward other Black people.”

“Our organization is comprised of women committed to

On gender equality

strongly encourages youth entrepreneurship, pushing communities to lay the groundwork for youth business-minded endeavors early.

“For Iota Phi Lambda, it is important that we teach and build them young,” Dilworth said. “We take pride in our youth and truly do believe they are our future.”

“Most of our business workshops and programming are geared toward our millennials, from our Youth: Future Iota Leaders mentoring program, to our Lola M. Parker Foundation and scholarships, to our recent partnership with Microsoft for our previous IGNITE Youth Leadership and Innovation convention, we are committed to the youth.”

BY LAUREN POTEAT NNPA NEWSWIRE

According to a recent study done by Guidant Financial, Blackowned businesses have seen a dramatic increase since 2015, particularly among Black women.

However, in the same survey, it was also reported that while the number of Black-owned businesses are at an all-time high, Black-owned business sustainment and substantial economic growth remain stagnant.

Working to better close economic gaps and help nurture Black communities to achieve greater financial excellence, Iota Phi Lambda Sorority, the first Black Greek-lettered business sorority, established in 1929, sets off its 90th anniversary with a call to action for people of color to “rule in the art of business.”

Although some polling stations had overseers who would not allow Kamwangala and the rest of her monitors access to printed sheets where machines were failing, she said that also didn’t stop her team.

“We worked throughout the night until they allowed us to get the sheets. We were on the ground and we know how these polls come out and how the voting is done,” she said.

As the Malawi Election Commission certified more ballots and counting reached the 80 percent mark, Kamwangala said stories of election rigging began.

“We’re not worried,” she said.

“There was one officer in the village of Chichewa where, unfortunately, evidence showed he was involved in rigging, but he and another officer are now in police custody,” Kamwangala said.

And, that’s largely due to the diligence and hard work of Kamwangala and Malawian women, who have slowly become the nation’s pillars of democracy.

the growth of our communities that really need our support and we are working very hard to make sure that we equip our people to have wealth that they can pass on to the next generations,” Dilworth continued.

The same business survey also went on to list some of the main

In a previous ProjectDiane report, which provides information about Black women and startup funding, only 0.2 percent of all venture capital funding was allocated toward startups founded

by Black women in 2016, while just 34 Black women business owners received more than a million dollars of funding in the years previous.

Emphasizing community empowerment, Dilworth also noted how important it was for Black people to support Black-owned businesses.

“The creation of Black-owned

businesses is at an all-time high, but keeping them going is difficult, especially with limited access to capital,” Dilworth said.

“People will complain about smaller, Black-owned businesses having slightly higher prices than their competitors and then spend their money with those same competitors instead, not realizing that most of these mainstream companies, have more access to capital and revenue,” Dilworth continued.

“If we want to get smaller Blackowned businesses generating that same kind of revenue, then we have to ‘Buy Black.’ We have to spend with them and help support them in their growth.’’

Focus on youth Committed to all aspects of business, Iota Phi Lambda also

Iota Phi Lambda sorority supports other non-business-focused programs, including its Iota Mothers Assistance Program— which provides outreach services to teen and disadvantaged mothers, and their Toys “U” Can’t Return program—a teen pregnancy prevention project designed to help educate communities about teen pregnancy and develop effective action agendas for preventing children from having children.

“If everyone remembers to reach back, there’s no limit to what we can do,” Jennifer Porter, National Chairwoman of Toy’s “U” Can’t Return said. “I am so proud to be able to be a part of an organization that does so much for our community and want to help see it flourish so that we can continue to support so many people. We have been around for 90 years, which is a testament to our love and support from our community.”

This year, Iota Phi Lambda’s national convention is scheduled to take place in Shreveport, Louisiana, July 24–28, in preparation for the sorority’s opening of a permanent official headquarters in Washington, D.C.

R6

7 SPORTS

MAY 30 – JUNE 5, 2019

B-CUATHLETICS.COM

Long jumper Monae Nichols is shown at a previous track meet.

‘It went by fast’ for B-CU track stars Nichols will represent university at NCAA Outdoors June 5-8 SPECIAL TO THE DAYTONA TIMES

JACKSONVILLE – There was the literal baton passing Saturday when the Bethune-Cookman Women’s 4x100 relay took the track at the NCAA East Preliminary.

Senior Quamecha Morrison, who is now in the history books as the first Lady Wildcat to score points at a national championship earlier this year, started things off.

Following her was redshirt senior Sade McCreath-Tardiel, part of the first women’s relay team to qualify for Nationals. Also in the quartet: sophomore Monae Nichols, who will be competing in the long jump at Nationals weeks from now at the University

Sade McCreath-Tardiel, Jonina Brinson, Monae Nichols and Quamecha Morrison are shown with their coaches. of Texas.

All on Nichols Along with Gabrielle Collins, the foursome clocked a 45.8 and finished 24th to conclude B-CU’s performance at the University of North Florida that featured

some swift performances such as North Carolina A&T’s Kayla White and LSU’s Sha’Carri Richardson, who only ran the fastest 100 by a freshman in NCAA history in Friday’s quarterfinal heat after McCreath-Tardiel’s attempt to qualify.

For now, it’s all on Nichols, who will make her second Nationals appearance in as many years. She’s also the B-CU women’s long jumper to compete at NCAAs. “Now I have to win multis and go to nationals,” Nichols said.

“I am going to miss [Sade and Quamecha] so much. My freshman year during conditioning, I thought my college career was over and Sade picked me up and said `You got this.’ I’m always competing against Quamecha in practice. That made me better.”

‘Legacy will continue’ McCreath-Tardiel said her career was a continuation of her mentors, Tristie Johnson and Summer Brown.

“They gave up the torch to me,” McCreath-Tardiel said.

“Bethune-Cookman might be a small school, but we have talented people. I think the legacy will

continue. We made some history and made a mark with our Nationals appearance.

“It’s been a privilege to run for Bethune-Cookman,” she added.

“It went by fast, but what a great journey. I’ll do it again.”

‘We did it’ Morrison’s litany includes seven Mid-Eastern Athletic Conference championships and a combined three NCAA National appearances, two of those in at Indoors.

“We have someone to continue everything,” Morrison said.

“Hopefully, she’ll pull someone else along to Nationals level, take the energy we have and build upon it. This season was kind of rocky for me, but I wouldn’t have it any other way. We came. We ran. We did it.”

This article was from B-CU Athletics.

Grambling’s Class of 2019 includes nationally recognized student-athletes NNPA NEWSWIRE

GRAMBLING, LA. – Grambling State University’s Class of 2019 includes three of the schools most historic athletes: Shakyla Hill, De’Arius Christmas, and Marc Orozco – who have broken school, conference and national records during their college sports careers.

“Our athletics programs attract some of the best and brightest students in the country,” said Dr. David Ponton, director of Athletics and Vice President of Student Affairs. “This year’s graduates are a great example of how the lessons they learn on the field can help drive academic success.”

On May 10, the university graduated a record 51 studentathletes in one ceremony and included Hill, Christmas Orozco.

Marc Orozco Orozco, a Criminal Justice major from Denton, Texas, has served as a kicker with Grambling State’s football team since 2014. His achievements on campus include: • Becoming the all-time SWAC and Grambling State record holder in points scored with 349.

• Leading the team in scoring with 102 points.

• Being named All-SWAC First Team.

• Being named an BOXTOROW All-American.

• Booting a career-long 48-yard field goal.

• Earning STATS FC All-American status.

De’Arius Christmas Christmas, a two-time Southwestern Athletic Conference (SWAC) Defensive Player of the Year, has earned more than 30 academic and athletic awards during his college career. The Vicksburg, Mississippi linebacker is best known for the following achievements: • Leading the team in tackles with 88 during the 2017-18 season.

• Named the SWAC Defensive Player of the Year.

• Multiple All-SWAC FirstTeam selections.

• STATS FCS All-American Third Team honoree.

• BOXTOROW All-American and SBN Black College All-American.

• National Football Foundation’s William V. Campbell Trophy finalist.

• Southwestern Athletic Conference (SWAC) All-Academic Team Honors.

• Grambling State StudentAthlete of the Year.

• FCS STATS Buck Buchanan Defensive Player of the Year nominee.

Shakyla Hill Hill, most well known for her two history-making quadrupledoubles, has earned praise from ESPN, Lebron James, and many others during her college career.

The 5-foot-7 women’s basketball guard from Little Rock, Arkansas’ record includes: • Five College Sports Madness SWAC Player of the Week Awards.

Marc Orozco • Three All-SWAC First-Team Selections 3 SWAC All-Tournament Team Honors.

• Three BOXTOROW AllAmerican Honors 2 BOXTOROW National Player of the Year Awards.

• Two SWAC Preseason Player of the Year Selections 2 Louisiana Sports Writer’s Association FirstTeam All-Louisiana.

• SWAC Player of the Year Award.

• SWAC Defensive Player of the Year Award.

• SWAC Preseason Defensive Player of the Year Selection.

• SWAC Tournament MVP. • United States Sports Academy Player of the Month.

• ESPN The Undefeated HBCU Player of the Year.

De’Arius Christmas is a two-time Southwestern Athletic Conference (SWAC) Defensive Player of the Year.

Basketball standout Shakyla Hill is most well known for her two history-making quadruple-doubles.