Vol. 27 #10 October 2021
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Dear Girlfriend, Is the Power Couples Ball still scheduled for New Years Eve? Are you still taking nominations? I am about to lose my mind up in here! We need to get out and do something before we find ourselves in divorce court, lol. I am proud to say we have hosted a table for 9 of the 10 years the ball was held and it was always just what the therapist ordered. I am anxiously looking forward to the Ball. I already have my dress and table guest. I told them it was for VFOs (vaccinated Friends Only). They all confirmed they’ve had their shots. Being cautious, we haven’t been too many fun places since COVID hit. However, we did attend your last Fresh Fridays, but then it was over. Will you please print the Power Couples Creed. I would like to share it with my new guest. Dear Anxious Table Host, We are still taking nominations but we have decided against hosting the Ball this year again. A few of our past Power Couples have lost their better halves to COVID even though they had their shots, so we decided to give it one more year, because we are not comfortable doing a large indoor event just yet! However, we will be officially announcing the Power Couple of the Year for 2020 and 2021 on the front cover of the paper and releasing it digitally. However, I am contemplating having something for our past table host only outside. That’s 50 couples but no additional table guest. So if you have hosted a table in the past, you will be getting a call. However all these plans are still being tossed around. Until we gather again, stay sweet and play some love songs.
Power Couples Creed
Power Couples are upbeat couples who are visible in the community doing positive things. Power Couples implement positive change and their community is a better place because of them. Power Couples play different roles in their communities, some work with children and others with adults. Power Couples are some times entrepreneurs, stepping out on Faith making it happen, creating jobs and opportunities for other. Power Couples Couple are often times the lenders, and not the borrowers, it has nothing to do with how much money they make but everything to do with being a good shepherd with what God has given them. Power Couples may be decision makers who hold exceutive positions and are responsible for the livelihood of others. Power Couples are helpful and people have a tendency to come to them in times of trouble for advice and encouragement. Power Couples make a personal decision to walk a positive walk. Power Couples are not perfect. They are not immune to trials and tribulations and some temptations. They may have made some mistakes and bad decisions in their past but that does not define them. Power Couples press forward and learn from their mistakes, because they know they are stronger together than they are apart.
The Last “Inclusivity Dialogues” October 27th at 2pm Speaker: Reverend Dr. Gay Byron A conversation concerning: Biblical hermeneutics, the Black woman and the Bible, race, memory, history, education and more For more info contact Dr. Keith Berry, Dean of Academic Affairs, Ybor City Campus - 813 253-7714.
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N-Touch News
Gentlemen’s Quest of Tampa Inc.,
Published Poetry Book Chronicling Black Adolescence On Saturday October 2, 2021, Gentlemen’s Quest of Tampa Inc., a 501c3 nonprofit based in Tampa, Florida committed to helping youth become productive members of society, announced the launch of a new book, “I Am a Young Black Man” a poetry collection authored by local-area students within the program that aims to detail the experiences of Black adolescence. Hillsborough County Public School Board members Henry “Shake” Washington and Nadia Combs came to support the venture as the young
Tavis Myric Washington
Combs
men read and shared their poetry. “I am so proud of our students for channeling their creativity to create art that serves as a window into the nuances of black adolescence and celebrates the coming-of-age journey that so many can relate to,” said Tavis Myrick, executive director of Gentlemen’s Quest. “Our program is committed to championing student success and ensuring the young men in our community have every opportunity to excel in school and in life.” “I am a Young Black Man” is a collection of poetry and prose that explores the joy, triumphs, and nuances of black adolescence. This compilation includes original poems written by students from Gentlemen’s Quest of Tampa Inc. This collection of poetry is a reflection of Gentlemen’s Quest’s mission to provide teenage boys the opportunity to share their individual hopes and fears in a safe
Co-Author Kellen Wiley Jr. (Hillsborough- Freshmen) Co - Author Joshua Nina (Sunlake - Junior)
Dr. Mark Jones Pastor of the Center for Manifestation Co-Author Jaron Williams (Armwood - Sophomore)
environment. These poems provide an intimate perspective into the lives of several young black men as they reflect on their aspirations, self-identities, and the beautiful complexity of their blackness. “I Am a Young Black Man” is now available on Amazon and their
with GQ Executive Director Tavis Myric
Members of the Gentlemen’s Quest of Tampa Inc. Left to right: (Row 1) Sharod Ford, Caileb Harris, Ronnie Plummer Jr., Thomas Miller, Joshua Nina, Antonio Taylor, Dayvin Fisher, Donovan Terry, Keith Canady Jr., Jamari Mercy, Jaron Williams, (Row 2) Marcus Jones, Robert Stone, Ethan Eugene, Anthony Ezeanya, Nicolas Nina, Damani Fisher, Clyde St. Vall, Miles Jones, Jayalan Moreau, Kellen Wiley Jr., Chas Walker
website. All proceeds from book sales will help to fund a student trip to Washington D.C. for the Gentlemen’s Quest program that includes visits to Howard University, the National Museum for African American History and Culture, and the American Poetry Museum. About Gentlemen’s Quest Gentlemen’s Quest of Tampa Inc. is dedicated to helping our program participants realize their full potential as students, make positive choices regarding their academics and behavior, and equip them with the skills necessary to become productive citizens after they graduate. To accomplish this mission, we host workshops and activities that will provide students with strategies to be successful in difficult situations. Students attend meetings that are structured and targeted. The academic and behavioral progress of the students are monitored regularly. Throughout this process, their intellectual, emotional, and relational capacity expands by providing key experiences that contribute to their developmental growth. For more information on Gentlemen’s Quest, please visit https:// gqtampa.com/. Media Contact Tavis Myrick 813-443-6076 tmyrick@GQtampa.com
N-Touch News, The Good News Resource Since 1996. Page 4
Tampa, Florida
372 370 369 Y
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Alternative 1 Moving Precincts 249 and 250
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365
SUNCOAST PKW
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179 203 135 137 119 117 115 116 113 103
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Tampa, Florida
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365
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366 362
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363 363
Alternative 4 Moving Precincts: 117, 133, and 137 From Council Districts 4 and 6 To Council Districts 6 and 4, respectively.
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245 338 345
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317 217 309 213 218 205 209 303 305 207 307 304 179 203 LEE ROY S ELMON E 169 163 160 175 X 165 161 141 145 139 135 157 159 131 153 301 129 137 133 127 301 301 119 121 117 125 123 115 112 113 116 111 103
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the intelligence and integrity of our Black representatives are questioned because they choose to put the needs of the people above the selfish desires of a political party. African Americans cannot afford to worry about whether our governments are controlled by one party or another. The blue vs. red games politicians play have never benefited us. Instead, years of purposeful neglect and finger pointing at the other side, have allowed the needs of our community to grow greater. Our concerns need to lie with whether we are able to have seats at the table, no matter the level of government; especially locally. We must demand equity and transparency in these processes and ensure that our representatives are not being marginalized as they fight for us. Take part in the redistricting meetings. Listen to what our Black elected officials are saying and watch who stands with (and against) them. You may be surprised by what you see. (https://planhillsborough.org/redistricting/) Maps illustrate the alternatives for redistricting:
RSON ANDERD
sentation in the US congress. Our first African American State legislators were elected in 1968 (Joe Lang Kershaw). It took legal action to establish these minority access seats and without a fair redistricting process at all levels, we could see legislative bodies that lack the presence of at least one African American. Oftentimes, the political party in power will use their influence to create a map of districts that helps them hold on to their power by claiming to know what’s best for us. Unfortunately for African Americans, both parties, Republican and Democrats, take advantage of the laws that require the establishment of African American access seats to secure control for their party. This practice of gerrymandering is unfair and while some maps comply with the letter of the law; they usually flies against the spirit of it. Too often, when the Black representative on that body points out the need to keep an African American district whole, those in power belittle that individual and accuse them of unsavory motives and even worse - of playing the race card. It’s in these discussions that
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Every ten years, our elected officials undergo a process of redrawing the political boundaries of their districts using data from the US Census. This means that new seats are often created at the federal, state and local levels. The current members of our school boards, city council, county commission and state legislature are all up for election once this process is complete. Next summer, elections will begin again with new districts and some familiar faces. For decades after reconstruction, due to Jim Crow and legalized discrimination, African Americans were locked out of the political process. It wasn’t until lawsuits were filed challenging the lack of representation in government and that the Federal Civil Rights and Voting Acts were enforced, that seats were created that allowed Black people to elect a “candidate of their choosing”. Believe it or not, it’s only been since 1992 that Florida has had Black repre-
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Reflections of a Teacher Retiring After a 44 year Career Great is thy faithfulness...Lord, all I have needed, your hands have provided. After 44 years, 8,360 school days, 9 schools (East Bay and Jefferson twice), 12 principals, and a lot of students, today is my last day as a HCPS teacher. Bittersweet, but so necessary. Education and school have changed so much since I started my career at East Bay High School, my Alma Mater. I wish I could say all changes benefited children, but I digress for another time. I have experienced so much through principals; Lyle Flagg (East Bay); Jack Menendez, Ed Ballas, Bobby Quinn (Jefferson High); Charlie Harris (East Bay & Bloomingdale); Juanita Underwood (Sligh); Lynn Lavallee (MacFarlane Park Teen Parent Program); Dave Best, Lewis Brinson, Jacqueline Kennedy Haynes (Blake); Veronica Morgan (DW Waters); Kim Moore (MHS). During my career, there were offers and opportunities that I passed up to remain a classroom teacher. I remained in the classroom because I felt that’s where my greatest impact was. Anything else where I felt my voice was limited or suppressed, I might not have made it to 44 years. **it might have been prison** or removal for speaking out. There are too many people to name who have loved and supported me....or talked about me and criticized me (but inspired me in a different way). If I start naming, I fear I would leave someone out. However, if you’re special, I hope I’ve communicated that. To the Tampa Alumnae Chapter of Delta Sig-
maTheta Sorority, Inc. who invested in my education with your scholarship as a 16-year old East Bay graduate, I hope the return on your investment was worth the risk. Thank you again and again. As a 44 year Delta, the Scholarship Committee is near and dear to my heart. To Mrs. Jacqueline Kennedy Haynes, Blake APC and Principal, where I spent most of my career, thank you for allowing me to be me and supporting me, even if we didn’t agree. I really appreciated that. To Lynn Lavallee and Nadine Johnson at the Teen Parent Program at MacFarlane Park, thank you for supporting me and a program that was, and still is, needed. Finally, Jefferson, where I started my second year teaching, and where I’ve spent the last years of my career--this was heaven-sent. Gwendolyn Henderson was MY student back then; for the past five years she’s been my Department Head. She is absolutely amazing, not because she’s the President and CEO of my fan club (don’t mess with me), but because she’s SERIOUS about all things education (HBCUs top the list). She’s an inspiration. Once you realize that her bark is far worse than her bite, there isn’t another person that you’d rather have in your corner. I love her. When my students become great teachers, it’s a testimony that I’ve done some things well. Every school where I’ve taught I’ve made some amazing friends. Many of my students have gone on to become teachers, my daughter Alexis Cooke included. She’s an amazing, passionate teacher that I regularly have to talk off a ledge. Her ef-
forts were recognized this year with her earning Ida S. Baker Educator of the Year; I earned that same award in 2005 and was nominated many times. I was also voted Dragon Teacher of the Month for August. Recognition is not a goal or the reason teachers teach; it is, once again, that something we’re doing in the classroom is making an impact on students--and in many cases, other teachers. To deepen my knowledge of students and teaching, in 2001 I earned National Board Certification. This process documents that teachers have met the profession’s highest standards. I renewed my Certification in 2011. Throughout the past twenty years, and prior to becoming certified, I mentored teachers who were new or who sought to become better teachers. Teaching is an art that I didn’t always get right; my sincere “pressing towards the mark” kept me always looking for ways to improve and to help others do the same. I hope that these 44 years have left an impression of love, hope, and academic success for those I’ve encountered. Thanks to my family because you are behind the scenes but know it all. Sorors, sisters, friends--thank you for the love throughout the years. Don’t go finding stuff for me to do because I’ll be traveling with Yolanda Jones Cole . I am so grateful that God has blessed me, and after 44 years I don’t look like what I’ve been through. And, if I helped somebody as I passed along the way, then my living would not have been in vain. I look forward to the next chapter of my life and the blessings God has in store for me. Sandra’s daughter, Alexis Cooke, was recently awarded the Ida S. Baker Diversity Educator of the Year Award. Sandra is the better half to the dark, tall and handsome Reggie Dixon and this Power Couple and can be seen annually on the dance floor at the Power Couples’ Ball
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Power Couple Ken & Celeste Roberts Host a few at Outdoor Venue
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Consortium of Concerned Citizens A group of concerned men met with the Tampa Mayor’s Chief of Staff, John Bennett, to discuss the city budget in regards to affordable housing, the nonprofit sector, and a host of other concerns affecting the African American community. Mr. Bennett promised to answer the concerns of the group.
Need A Professional Graphic Artist? Call Floyd!
Pictured left to right: John Harrell, Simeon Hill, Ray Campbell, Jerome Ryan director of Tampa Housing Authority, Michael Reeves of Reeves Building & Plumbing, John Bennett (Tampa’s Chief of Staff), Stanley Gray-Urban League, Daryl Johnson of N-Touch News, Rodney Nichols, Ralph Smith of Computer Mentors.
Naaman Johnson Jr. 19820 US 19 Clearwater, FL 33764
813-244-9127
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Notary Pubic Toastmasters Breast Cancer Survivor Servant Leader
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Scholarship for Law School: Full-Tuition to Graduates of 35 HBCUs Suffolk University Law School is excited to announce the Thaddeus Alexander Kitchener Scholarship. Originally from Kingston, Jamaica, Kitchener was the first student of color to graduate with a law degree from Suffolk Law in1913. Recognizing that standardized testing and traditional merit-based scholarship models can be barriers to enter law school and the legal profession for students from nontraditional backgrounds, this scholarship is designed to address those barriers. This award will guarantee fulltuition scholarships at Suffolk Law for all students who are admitted to and enroll in a JD program at Suffolk Law in 2022, agree to commit to Suffolk Law via the Binding Early Decision HBCU Program, and have received their undergraduate degree by the time of enrollment at Suffolk Law from one of the 35 historically Black colleges and universities (“HBCUs) listed below. The fulltuition award will be renewed each year so long as the student remains in good academic standing.
Benedict College Bowie State University Cheyney University of Pennsylvania Claflin University Clark Atlanta University Coppin State University Delaware State University Dillard University Florida A&M University Grambling State University Hampton University Harris-Stowe State University Howard University Johnson C. Smith University The Lincoln University (PA) Livingstone College Morehouse College Morgan State University Norfolk State University North Carolina A&T University North Carolina Central University Prairie View A&M University Spelman College South Carolina State University Southern University and A&M College Tennessee State University Texas Southern University Tuskegee University University of the District of Columbia
1409 W. Thonotosassa Rd. Plant City, Fl. 33566
(813) 719-6605
Moore
University of Maryland – Eastern ShorePrincess Anne Virginia State University Virginia Union University Virginia University of Lynchburg Winston-Salem State University Xavier University of Louisiana In order to qualify, students must meet the following requirements: Completed applications must be received by April 1 to be considered for full-tuition scholarships. Completed applications will be reviewed for admission by the Admission Committee. Eligible students must have received their undergraduate degree from one of the identified HBCUs at the time of their enrollment at Suffolk Law. Eligible students must agree to commit to Suffolk Law if admitted and submit the Binding Early Decision HBCU Agreement with their completed application. Students granted full-tuition scholarship will be required to submit a $500 nonrefundable deposit on January 15, 2022, or 21 days after admission, whichever is later, and withdraw applications to
all other law schools. The Binding Early Decision HBCU Agreement can be submitted any time before the day of the admission decision. All eligible students who are admitted to start a JD program at Suffolk Law in 2022 and have submitted the Binding Early Decision HBCU Agreement will be awarded full-tuition scholarships each year of their enrollment to apply towards tuition at Suffolk Law. Eligible students who applied after April 1 or who did not submit the Binding Early Decision HBCU Agreement and who are admitted to start and enroll in a JD program at Suffolk Law in 2022 will be awarded $35,000 per year in the full-time program or $25,000 per year in the parttime evening program. Students will be automatically awarded the scholarship when they are admitted to Suffolk Law. The award will be renewed each year that students are at Suffolk Law so long as they remain in good academic standing. Additional terms and conditions apply.
Williams
One on One Consultation From Start to Successful Conclusion
www.williamsandmoorelaw.com
Accidental Death Auto/Motorcycle Accidents Permanent Disabilities Nursing Home Negligence Slip & Falls The hiring of a lawyer is an important decision that should not be based solely upon advertisement. Before you decide, ask for FREE written information about our qualifications and experience.
The Law Office of Patricia Dawson, P.A. Former Hillsborough County Prosecutor-Deputy Chief
• Criminal Defense (813) • Family Law • Personal Injury
386-5730
1211 N. WestshoreBlvd. Suite 307 Tampa, Florida 33607 The hiring of a lawyer is an important decision that should not be based solely upon advertisement. Before you decide, ask for FREE written information about our qualifications and experience.
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Barbara J. Pittman
Law Offices of Barbara J. Pittman, P.A.
(813)269-9706 Fax (813)960-0601
Cypress Point Office Park 10012 N. Dale Mabry Suite 211 Tampa, Florida 33618 • Criminal Defense • Family Law • Personal N-Touch News Injury The hiring of a lawyer is an important decision that should not be based solely upon advertisement. Before you decide, ask for FREE written information about our qualifications and experience.
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Adult Humor
Go Ahead and Get your Laugh On
Enunciate One day a man walks into a bar and to his amazement, he finds a tiny person playing a tiny piano. Stunned the man asked the bartender where he got this amazing person. The bartender replied that inside the closet there is a genie that will grant him a single wish. The man dashed into the the closet and as the bartender said, there was a genie inside. Without hesitation the man wished for a million bucks, but instead 1 million ducks instantly appeared. Infuriated the man stormed to the bartender and screamed “I think your genie is hard of hearing, I asked for a million bucks but instead I got a million ducks.” The bartender shook his head and replied, “You’re telling me, do you really think I asked for a 12 inch pianist?”
Marrying a Golfer The bride came down the aisle and when she reached the altar, the groom was standing there with his golf bag and clubs at his side. She said, “What are your golf clubs doing here?” He looked her right in the eye and said, “This isn’t going to take all day, is it?” And that’s when the fight started.
Baby Conversations
Three babies in the womb discuss what they would like to be when they grow up. The first one says, “I wanna be a plumber, so I can fix the pipes in here.” The second one says, “I wanna be an electrician, so I can get some lights in here.” The third one says, “I wanna be a boxer.” The others look confused and asked, “Why do you want to be a boxer?” He proudly replies, “So I can beat that rude bald guy who keeps plunging in and out of here and then spitting on us.” Page 14
The Judges
Two small county judges both got arrested for speeding on the same day. Rather than call the state Supreme Court for a visiting judge, each agreed to hear the other’s case. The first judge took the bench while the second stood at the defendant’s table and admitted his guilt. The sentencing judge immediately suspended both the fine and costs. They switched places. The second judge admitted that he was speeding, too. Thereupon the first judge immediately fined him $250 and ordered him to pay court costs. The second judge was furious. “I suspended your fine and costs, but you threw the book at me!” he fumed. The first judge looked at him and replied, “This is the second such case we’ve had in here today. Someone has to get tough about all this speeding!”
Going Crazy
Patient: Oh, Dr. Wilson, I have terrible troubles. I do hope that you can help me. Psychiatrist: Now calm down. Just lie down on the couch and tell me all about your troubles. Patient: Well, Doctor, I have a duplex penthouse apartment in New York and a summer house on the beach at the Hamptons. I drive a Rolls-Royce, and my wife drives a Jaguar. My two boys go to the best private school in the city. We belong to three very swanky clubs, and every year I manage to spend a month in Europe. Psychiatrist: These things are very wonderful, but let’s get down to your basic problem. Patient: I was just getting to it, Doctor. You see, I only make $1,000 a week!
Laughter Heals
An old friend sent me a text. It said “Life is too Short to be serious all the time. If you can’t laugh at yourself, Call me, I will laugh at you.” Give an old friend a call.
Pets and Their Owners
Four College grads were discussing how smart their dogs were. The first was an engineer who said his dog could draw. His dogs name was “TSquare” and he told him to get some paper and draw a square, a circle and a triangle, which he did with no sweat. The accountant said he thought his dog, “Balance” could do better. He told him to fetch a dozen cookies and divide them into piles of three, which he did with no problem. The chemist said that was a very good stunt, but that his dog, “Apothecary”, could do better yet. He told his dog to get a quart of milk and pour seven ounces into a ten ounce glass. Apothecary did this without a hitch. All three men agreed their dogs were equally smart. They turned to the Civil Servant and asked him what his dog could do. The Civil Servant called his dog, whose name was “Coffee break” and said, “Show the fellows what you can do, old buddy.” Coffee Break then strolled over and ate the cookies, drank the milk, crapped on the paper, screwed the other three dogs and claimed he injured his back while doing so. He then filed a grievance for unsafe conditions, applied for Workers Compensation, and left on sick leave.
Adult Humor
Dentist Visit
A husband and wife entered the dentist’s office. The husband said, “I want a tooth pulled. I don’t want gas or Novocain because I’m in a terrible hurry. Just pull the tooth as quickly as possible so we can keep it moving.” “You’re a brave man,” said the dentist. Now show me where that tooth is.” The husband turns to his wife and says, “Open your mouth and show the dentist which tooth you need pulled, dear.” And that’s when the fight started!
The Separation
My wife packed my bags and told me to get out and that she never wanted to see me again. So I slowly went the bathroom to get my tooth brush. As I walked out the front door of my house, she screamed, “I wish you a slow and painful death, you bastard!” “Oh,” I replied, “so now you want me to stay!”
Buying Horses
Little Johnny attended a horse auction with his father. He watched as his father moved from horse to horse, running his hands up and down the horses legs and rump, and chest.. After a few minutes, Johnny asked, Dad, why are you doing that? His father replied, Because when I’m buying horses, I have to make sure that they are healthy and in good shape before I buy. Johnny, looking worried, said, Dad, I think the UPS guy wants to buy Mom .
Keep On Laughing...Laughter Heals! N-Touch News
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