A Moral Evaluation....Page 4 50 Cents

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Vol. 37, No. 49: Section 01

Tallahassee, Florida

Dec. 8 - Dec. 14, 2011

A champion is eulogized By Paul Douglas

Robert Champion (pictured above) was a Marching “100” drum major who died Nov. 19 due to hazing-related causes. The Rattler was laid to rest Nov. 30 in Decatur, Ga. by family and friends. The 26-year-old Champion was found unresponsive Nov. 19 on a bus parked outside the Rosen Plaza Hotel in Orlando, after the school’s football team lost to longtime rival Bethune-Cookman University. Deputies say Champion complained of not being able

to breathe and had been vomiting shortly before he collapsed. He was immediately transported to a hospital where he was pronounced dead. Police confirmed hazing-related activities may have contributed to his death, but have not released any details. FAMU’s former band direc-

See FUNERAL, Page 7

A spiritual and community leader is honored Person of the Week

The Rev. Ernest Ferrell, pictured with wife Mary, was honored Dec. 2 at the Leon County Civic Center for more than a century’s worth of community service By Ashley Hogans not to the point that I feel like I Outlook Staff Writer am honored so much, but I am glad that I was able to be of serA legendary native of Tal- vice to this community over these lahassee is recognized for his past years.” outstanding accomplishments in Elder Lee Harris, who has the community for a combined known Ferrell for more than 35 113 years. Elder Dr. Ernest Fer- years, was the chair of the comrell, who is married to the former mittee to make sure the event was Mary E. Richardson, was hon- a success. Harris said the purored at an appreciation reception pose of the appreciation recepon Friday, Dec. 2 at the Tallahas- tion was to recognize Ferrell for see Leon County Civic Center. his hard work and to say “thank “I am humbled and I really you.” appreciate that someone thought “We wanted to come to a enough of me to think that I was point where we can say we appreworthy,” said Ferrell. “But, I am ciate you, and the work you have

Mr. Chairman Outlook Staff Writer

See POW, Page 2

County Commissioner At-Large Akin Akinyemi was elected chair of the Board of County Commissioners and promotes sustainability, government accountability and civic engagement. control, yet we have to make the best fiscal and policy decisions to help improve the employment and quality of life for our residents while still protecting our pristine natural features. I predict that we will continue to do more with less.” In fact, of 67 Florida counties, Leon is the fifth lowest in dollars spent per resident. Akinyemi said among like-sized counties, LCBC has the lowest operating budget and the lowest in dollars spent per resident. See LEADER, Page 7

Seeking Solutions included the Rev. Joseph Wright who pastors Jerusalem Baptist Church, Calvary Baptist Church Pastor Emerita Bernyce Clausell and the Rev. Earnest Ferrell. “Theres nothing like the faith community coming together,” Clausell said.

By Terrika Mitchell Outlook Staff Writer

Public conversations surrounding the Nov. 19 death of Marching “100” drum major Robert Champion have a common thread: to gain insight into the culture of hazing in the band. Few, however, are exploring steps to completely extract hazing from the culture of all Historically Black Colleges and Universities. A group of local pastors, though, have set out to address this issue they say many in their congregations have faced. On Dec. 2, more than 11 pastors congregated for a press conference announcing the formation of a another task force to eradicate hazing as well. “We need to encourage our young people to look at how they treat one another. And that’s more moral than anything else,” said New Life United Methodist Church pastor the Rev. Barbara Awoniyi. The Rev. Dr. R.B. Holmes Jr., pastor of Bethel Mission-

THERE’S MORE

Rep. Alan Williams

Ava Parker

ary Baptist Church, appointed a National Historically Black College and University task force “to develop a National Anti-Hazing conference.” Initial members include Fort Valley State University President Larry Rivers, South Carolina State University President George Cooper HBCU presidents Nathaniel Glover Jr., of Edward Waters College and Henry Lewis of Florida Memorial University. “It means power for education for our young people as well as our community,” said Pas-

tor Terry Price of Philadelphia Primitive Baptist Church. “This is something we owe to the parents who are entrusting their child into our care into our city to get their education. We also owe this to the students to make sure that they’re comfortable in our community while they’re here. And we also owe this to ourselves to make sure that we are not just standing by and allowing things to take place and there not be a voice being heard.” Religious leaders in attendance for the press conference

Inside OPINION / 4 EDUCATION / 5 RELIGION / 6 COMMUNITY NEWS / 10

Briefs

By Terrika Mitchell

November 15 marked a new era for the Leon County Board of Commissioners (LCBC) in more ways than one. As Commissioner At-Large Akin Akinyemi formally accepted the appointment as board chairman, which is a year-long term that parallels the final year in Akinyemi’s four-year term, he encouraged fellow board members to “seize the moment and do something great with this opportunity.” “My primary goal as chair is to create an environment that will afford each of you equal opportunity to accomplish your goals,” the commissioner told his colleagues. Akinyemi has experience managing a moderate budget as the board’s immediate past vice president, next to then-Chair Commissioner John Dailey (District 3). According to the elected official, the LCBC has cut its budget by about $70 million in the last five years without reducing levels of service. “Our biggest challenge is delivering quality basic services with decreasing revenue,” he said. “We also face a persistently depressed economy with global variables that are beyond our

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Throngs of family, friends and fellow members of Florida A&M’s Marching “100” gathered at Beulah Missionary Baptist Church in Decatur, Ga. Wednesday, Nov. 30 to bid a final farewell to drum major Robert Champion, who died of a suspected hazingrelated incident. Champion was dressed in his Marching “100” uniform, gripping a shining baton. Before the service commenced, drum majors covered his casket with the university’s flag. Pastor John Tatum urged mourners to help eliminate hazing practices. “If there’s anything about this man’s legacy we need to put a stop to, it’s hazing,” Tatum said to the hundreds in attendance.“I call on every mother, every father, every niece, every uncle, do what is necessary now to stop this tragedy so that it will never happen again.”

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tor Julian E. White said Champion’s compelling charisma influenced so many around him. “Whenever Robert heard the sound of the drum, his knees raised, his toes pointed and he was on a mission to make the FAMU community proud,” White said. “I loved that young man. The world is a better place because of Robert Champion.” White, who was fired amid Champion’s death, said that he did everything in his power to exterminate hazing in the 375-member band. Since his dismissal from the university, he has hired an attorney and will seek immediate legal action if not reinstated. Attorney Christopher Chestnut, who is representing Robert Champion’s family, said to reporters during a press conference that the family also plans to sue the university and expose a culture of hazing. During the service university President James H. Ammons pledged that he will eradicate the hazing culture that’s plagued

Last week, FAMU officials announced that four Marching “100” members were suspended in relation to Champion’s death; However, their involvement is still unclear. Additionally, the Tallahassee Police Department has initiated its own investigation regarding hazing in the band after another student, Bria Hunter, spoke out about her pre-Florida Classic encounter with hazing which left her with a fractured thigh bone and damaged knee. In the wake of the Champion’s death after the Florida Football Classic in Orlando three weeks ago, investigations have been launched by the Orange See SOLUTIONS, Page 2

Florida lost 1,134 jobs in November Florida companies cut 1,134 jobs in November, according to a survey by employment firm Challenger, Gray & Christmas Inc. That makes it second in the south for job losses, behind Alabama, and No. 10 in the nation. Cost-cutting is the primary reason for job cuts in November nationwide, followed by restructuring and closing. After the government, the main industries with job losses are the financial and retail sectors. Payroll tax break for 9 million Floridians at stake The White House, as part of its campaign to pressure Congress, predicted on Nov. 30 that 9.1 million Floridians would save $9.3 billion if the House and Senate approve President Obama’s proposed 3.1 percentage point cut in the payroll tax. The current 2-percentage point cut provided for this year will help 9 million Floridians save $5.6 billion, according to figures put out by the White House. Florida Small Business Toolbox: Forms, Permits & Licenses One of the most popular articles on FloridaSmallBusiness. com is a how-to piece that helps entrepreneurs navigate the state’s complex array of forms and licenses. Registering a business involves filing paperwork with the government to obtain certificates, licenses and permits in order to legally operate. Here’s a guide to the basics visit http://www.floridatrend. com/small_biz_article. asp?aID=54684

This Week’s Word “Ye are of God, little children, and have overcome them: because greater is he that is in you, than he that is in the world.” I John 4:4 (KJV)

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POW from Page 1 done, and the hundreds and thousands of people lives you have touched through the Urban League,” Harris said. “Including the many lives you have helped and the work you have done through the churches−Elder Ferrell has been a servant leader.” The 68-year-old President/CEO of the Tallahassee Urban League and pastor of Saint Mary Primitive Baptist Church has had an effect on many individuals nationwide through ministry, business and outreach programs. John Marks, the Mayor of Tallahassee, said Ferrell has been an active leader in the community for several years. “Rev. Ferrell has been a leader in our community for many years especially in the faith based community,” said Mayor John Marks. “And the faith based community is very important to the City of Tallahassee and we need that kind of leadership that the Rev. Ferrell provides for us. So, I am very very proud to be

here this evening to honor Rev. Ferrell, and all of the things he has done for the City of Tallahassee, and his leadership both in the community in general and the faith based community.” Ferrell began his spiritual journey as a pastor in 1969 at Galilee Primitive Baptist Church, where he pastored for 23 years. Later Ferrell left and pastored at Saint Mary Primitive Baptist Church in 1992 where he currently serves as the pastor. James Ferrell, Elder Dr. Ferrell’s brother said he has always been a visionary person even as a child. “He is a deserving person, he will give his last for someone,” James Ferrell said. “He was always an outgoing visionary person that always saw things before anybody else saw it and wanted to work to achieve it.” Throughout the years Ferrell, a graduate of Florida A&M University has been instrumental in the community. He has served

41 years as the president and chief executive officer of the Tallahassee Urban League. Miss Barrie Ashcroft, a family friend has known Ferrell since 1960 and says his positive personality never changes. “Ernest is always the same he’s not pretentious,” said Ashcroft. “He has broken through some barricades. I like the way he speaks his mind because he knows that God is going to take care of it, and he just says what he thinks is right and he follows through with it.” Ferrell has held many positions in the Primitive Baptist Church including serving as the former president of the Florida State Primitive Baptist Church Convention. He is also the former president of the National Primitive Baptist Convention where he has lead more than 600,000 members. “As a result of the experience I gained at Galilee Primitive Baptist Church

and Saint Mary Primitive Baptist Church has prepared me, so that I would be able to provide leadership to thousands of people throughout this country,” Ferrell said. “I am so proud, and so thankful, and so blessed to be in that position.” Ferrell has been awarded the FAMU Honorary Doctorate of Humane Letters Degree; FAMU’s Martin Luther King Jr., Leadership Award; the City

asking Chancellor (Frank) Brogan to initiate an investigation to determine whether university administration took appropriate action to address the hazing activities referenced by Dr. (Julian) White and any hazing activities in the student population at large.” After an abrupt termination, White, former FAMU Director of Bands, has demanded reinstatement through the legal representation of Attorney Chuck Hobbs and with more than 150 pages of documentation supporting

his anti-hazing efforts. These efforts, said White, who suspended 26 students involved in hazing days just before the Classic, were not supported by university administrators. White, who spoke at Champion’s funeral at the request of his parents, also expressed concern for the mourning family as he opened a Nov. 28 press conference at the Hobbs Group office. “I have not said anything publicly because of my respect and sorrow in the loss of Mr. and Mrs.

Champion’s son Robert, who was my drum major,” White said. “I wanted to wait until after the funeral. Additionally, I want to say that this is a very difficult time for myself, for Florida A&M University band, its faculty, staff, administration and all students because we are family and this kind of thing has a negative effect on all.”

of Tallahassee’s Rev. Ernest Ferrell Day Proclamation Award; and the Florida House of Representatives Leadership Award.

Ashley Hogans can be contacted at ahogans@ capitaloutlook.com.

Photo by ASHLEY HOGANS

Ferrell greeted those who came to honor him.

Photo by ASHLEY HOGANS

James Ferrell, the Rev. Ernest Fernest Ferrell’s brother, attended the appreciation reception.

Photo by ASHLEY HOGANS

A liturgical presentation was given by the praise dancers of St. Mary Primitive Baptist Church.

Solutions from Page 1 County Sheriff’s Office, a separate and independent task force structured under FAMU who’s investigations have been postponed, the Florida Department of Law Enforcement (FDLE) at Gov. Rick Scott’s request and the Florida Board of Governors. “While we are aware that the university has a regulation and a rule in place to prohibit hazing activities and to penalize students for engaging in such activities,” wrote State University Systems of Florida Chair Ava Parker, “we are

THE SURVIVORS Since Champion’s funeral on Nov. 30 in Decatur, Ga., Robert Champion

Sr. and his wife, Pam, have honed their efforts into seeking answers as well, according to their Atty. Christopher Chestnut. Florida State Rep. Alan Williams, who is also a FAMU Alumnus, said the top priority should be to console the Champion family and those who were close to Robert. “Obviously a lot of the news and speculation about how he may have died is something that concerns a lot of people, and it should,” Williams said. “But right now, our main

focus, and my main focus, is really how do we support the champion family? We need to be focused on our students and those students who are impacted by Mr. Champion’s death. We lost a member of our FAMU community and as an alumnus, that’s something we take very seriously.” Terrika Mitchell can be contacted at tmitchell@ capitaloutlook.com.

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“A Moral Call to Take the High Road” Rev. Dr. R.B. Holmes Jr. T h e religious community has come together to call for a Community – Wide Prayer Service on Wednesday, December 7, 2011, at noon at the Jacob Chapel Free Will Baptist Church, Rev. O. Jermaine Simmons, pastor. The aims and purpose of this community – wide prayer service are to pray for the strength of the Robert Champion Family. We all grieve and are saddened by the untimely death of this drum major. Also, we will pray to God to strengthen and help the Florida A&M University (FAMU) administration and this community, to seek God’s guidance and wisdom in developing policies and programs to truly and totally eradicate hazing from the culture. Hazing is never acceptable; hazing is illegal, immoral, and irresponsible. This prayer service and our participation is not to finger point, nor investigate, nor legislate, nor to litigate; but to meditate, educate, and activate the power of God to heal this community and bring help and peace and unity in “such a time as this.” We have come together because hazing is a moral issue

Rev. Dr. R.B. Holmes, Jr.

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and therefore, we must provide spiritual solutions and lend our moral voices to educate students that hazing must cease and be eliminated now and forever. We are the pastors of many students, faculty, and staff at FAMU. We love the rich history and heritage of the university. However, we will not sit idlely by and allow anyone within or without the university to use this unfortunate incident to weaken the school. Thusly, we pray, pray, and pray again for the power and peace of God to prevail in “such a time as this.” On Monday, January 16, 2012, when we celebrate the legacy and works of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr, we will host a workshop and worship service on strategies and spiritual solutions to eliminate and eradicate hazing from FAMU and other Historically Black Colleges and University campuses. This workshop and service will be held at the Philadelphia Primitive Baptist Church, Rev. Terry Price, Pastor. I have appointed a national Historically Black Colleges and University task force to develop a National AntiHazing Conference. The HBCU presidents who will serve as cochairs on this historic committee are: Dr. Larry Rivers, President, Fort Valley State University, Fort Valley, GA

Dr. George Cooper, President, South Carolina State University, Orangeburg, SC, and President of the Council of 1890 Universities. These are land grant universities comprised of (eighteen) 18 Historically Black Colleges and Universities. Mr. Nathaniel Glover, President of Edward Waters College, Jacksonville, FL, who was the first Black sheriff in Jacksonville, FL, and the southeastern part of the country Dr. Henry Lewis, President, Florida Memorial University, Miami, FL. There will be other presidents, pastors, and members of the National Newspaper Publishers Association (NNPA) on this committee. The purpose of this national task force is to eradicate and eliminate hazing on the campuses of all historically black colleges and universities. Ministers Committee: Rev. R. B. Holmes, Jr., pastor, Bethel Missionary Baptist Church Rev. O. Jermaine Simmons, pastor, Jacob Chapel Free Will Baptist Church Rev. Stanley Walker, pastor, Tabernacle Baptist Church; President, Tallahassee Interdenominational Ministerial Alliance Rev. Joseph Wright, pastor, Jerusalem Baptist Church Rev. Bernyce Clausell, pastor

Emeritus, Calvary Baptist Church Rev. Barbara Awoniyi, pastor, New Life United Methodist Church Rev. Terry Price, pastor, Philadelphia Primitive Baptist Church Rev. Ernest Ferrell, pastor, St. Mary Primitive Baptist Church President, Tallahassee Urban League Rev. J. D. Duval, moderator, 1st Bethlehem Baptist Association Rev. Julius McAlister, pastor, Bethel AME Church Rev. Frank McDonald, pastor, Mt. Pleasant Missionary Baptist, Wakulla, Fla. Rev. Craig Riley, Sr., pastor, Greater Mount Pleasant Baptist Church Rev. Robert Butler, pastor, St. John Baptist Church, Perry, Fla. Rev. Leroy Simmons, pastor, St. John Baptist, Tallahassee, Fla. Father Laughton Thomas, Rector, St Michael and All Angels Episcopal Church Superintendent Gerald Mandrell, pastor, Life Changers Church of God in Christ Elder Donald Sheppard, pastor, Watson Temple Church of God in Christ Rev. Matthew Carter, Associate Minister, Bethel Missionary Baptist Church Rev. Randy Barr, Sr., Pastor, Faith Chapel Pentecostal Church

A moral evaluation By Ashley Hogans

Publisher/President

Dec. 8 - Dec. 14, 2011

Outlook Staff Writer

In life, things don’t always work out as we planned and sometimes we don’t understand the purpose behind a tragedy. And, recently Florida A&M University suffered the loss of a fallen rattler Robert Champion, who was an outstanding drum major for the Marching “100” Band. Champion died after the Florida Classic in Orlando on Nov. 19 after what authorities reported as a band ritual hazing incident before he collapsed. My prayers and condolences go out to

the Champion family. Since this incident I started to think to myself it’s time for our generation to make a change in the way we treat each other. I am not sure what happened to Champion that evening, but our generation needs to evaluate our morals, values and ethics. I believe it’s time to take a look at ourselves physically, mentally and spiritually. It’s time for us to stand up and speak out for ourselves especially when it comes to fitting in various organizations on campus. During a casual conversation my friends and I were discussing if our generation has lost its morals and values that we were raised on in the African-American

community? For example the golden rule, treating others the way we want to be treated and loving your neighbor as yourself. I’m not stating that we have lost those values, but I do believe our generation can definitely evaluate our morals and values when it comes to calling someone our brother, sister, friend or loved one. Often times we believe adolescents suffer from low selfesteem or peer pressure, but I have come to realize wanting to be a part of something is human nature and has no age barrier. Low selfesteem is found commonly within all age groups. However, when do we as individuals learn to accept ourselves and be comfortable

with whom we are despite our flaws and not let others physically or mentally abuse us? Every day I am learning how to love myself for who I am, and if fitting into the popular crowd or organization will require me to ignore my morals and values, then I need to conduct an evaluation on that particular organization. So, if you have morals and values and you are not afraid to stand by them, then I challenge you to have your own mind and be the person God created you to be even if it means to stand up alone for what you believe is ethically and morally right. Ashley Hogans can be contacted at ahogans@ capitaloutlook.com.

What’s happening to poor is warning to us all By Reverend Jesse L. Jackson, Sr. The canary does not soar like an eagle. It doesn’t mark the change of seasons like a swallow. But the delicate canary captures the attention of the hardest miners, for it warns of impeding danger. When the canary keels over, miners run, realizing that the atmosphere is becoming a threat to life. For societies, it is the poor who are the canary, warning of conditions dangerous to the economy and to life. Sadly, we pay less attention to our social canary than miners do theirs. The ads celebrate the lifestyles of the wealthy. We should listen to the canary in the mine of America for it is now warning us that our economy is dangerously fouled, and our society is suffering lethal conditions. The poor in America are growing in number. More children are being raised in misery.

More seniors are forced to choose between food and medicine. As the poor spread, the middle class declines and inequality worsens. The economy doesn’t work when 1 percent of the population captures as much income as the bottom 40 percent. Evidence assembled by the Poverty, Promise and Possibility Initiative at the University of Chicago demonstrates that poverty is becoming ever more threatening. The percentage of Americans living in “extreme poverty” is growing, reaching the highest level ever recorded. In 2010, more than 20 million Americans, one out of every 15, were living in extreme poverty, defined as those with incomes of 50 percent or less of the poverty level. And now, new poverty measures adopted by the Census Bureau indicate the numbers may be worse than previously noted. In Washington, D.C., the “food insecurity” rate for children — meaning that they aren’t certain of their next meal — is over 32 percent. In Chicago, demand

at the Greater Chicago Food Depository is approaching record levels. In areas of Cook County, 45 percent of children are “running on empty,” having missed a main meal during the day. Yet, even as the poor grow in number, they become ever more isolated. America has outlawed segregation by race — but economic segregation grows ever more entrenched. The “very poor” are increasingly being pushed into “bad neighborhoods.” At least 2.2 million more Americans, a 33 percent jump since 2000, live in neighborhoods where the poverty rate is 40 percent or higher, according to a recent study by the Washington-based Brookings Institution. If Gandhi was right about poverty being the worst form of violence, then America is becoming a far more violent society. Republicans argue that the way to deal with this is by cutting taxes on the wealthy, with the money “trickling down” to the many. But you can’t deal with a leak in the hull by rearranging the

chairs on the luxury deck. Lyndon Johnson understood this. He went directly to the source of the leak. As part of his War on Poverty, he created the food stamp program, child nutrition measures, Job Corps, an Appalachian regional council and more. Johnson’s war was winning — reducing poverty and childhood poverty to its lowest levels. That war was lost not in our cities, but in the jungles of Vietnam. Today, the poor don’t get much attention. But they are the true measure of the health of our society — and we are getting sicker. As winter comes, we should all reach deep to help the poor, support the food kitchens, and the shelters. But charity is not enough. We need action on jobs. We need to extend unemployment insurance. We need to make certain that children do not go hungry or homeless in this wealthy nation. We have work to do.

Sentencing Conrad Murray By Judge Greg Mathis Dr. Conrad Murray was found guilty of involuntary manslaughter in the death of super star entertainer Michael Jackson. With the verdict, the jury brought some level of closure to an event that stunned the world. But the saga is not over yet. Murray’s sentencing hearing begins November 29. He could re-

ceive anything from probation to up to four years in prison for his actions. Many factors will go into Murray’s sentencing. The prosecution will point out his refusal to take responsibility for his role in Jackson’s death and the emotional impact the crime has had on Michael’s family in an attempt to secure a longer sentence. Murray’s defense team will point to the absence of a criminal history and may argue that the doctor was pressured by Jackson to provide the deadly

treatments. Though it may be unthinkable, it is possible that Murray may not see any prison time. California District Attorney Steve Cooley said that it would be difficult to appropriately sentence because of overcrowding in California’s prisons. Even if Murray does get jail time, a new California sentencing law that seeks to reduce overcrowding in prisons will ultimately affect if he serves that time. If sentenced to prison, Murray would most likely serve

his time in county jail. That same overcrowding could also result in Murray being sentenced to house arrest. As a doctor, Murray knew that what he was doing was unethical and was not in the best interest of the patient. By handing down the stiffest sentence possible, the judge would be demonstrating that it recognizes the long term effect Murray’s behavior will have on Jackson’s parents, siblings and, most importantly, his children.

Dec. 8 - Dec. 14, 2011

Education

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What states are seeking relief from the No Child Left Behind Act? Ronald W. Holmes, Ph.D. Education Editor/Vice President In macroeconomics, the guns versus butter model illustrates the relationship between a nation’s investment in defense or production of goods. A nation has to determine whether investing or spending resources on one societal demand is more important than another demand. This is parallel to the challenges of America’s schools. Because of the alarming rate of schools failing to meet the federal testing targets, teachers, principals, state superintendents and governors have petitioned vigorously for relief from specific requirements of the No Child Left Behind (NCLB) Act. As a result, the U.S. Department of Education (USDOE) is offering flexibility from federal education mandates in exchange for higher standards and accountability to student achievement. So the questions to be asked are: What states are seeking relief from the No Child Left

Behind Act? What are the requirements of the states if their plans are approved? How do some states plan to use the waiver or flexibility from the NCLB Act to meet the requirements? According to Education Secretary Arne Duncan, 11 states filed requests seeking flexibility from NCLB. These states include Colorado, Florida, Georgia, Indiana, Kentucky, Massachusetts, Minnesota, New Jersey, New Mexico, Oklahoma and Tennessee. If their applications are approved by midJanuary or sooner, these states are expected to establish performance targets for graduating students from high school ready for college and careers in lieu of meeting NCLB 2014 deadlines. They must develop locally designed interventions for their schools instead of adopt a one-sizefits-all remedy of the current NCLB. They should use multiple measures to assess the effectiveness of schools instead of a single test score; and they should exercise more flexibility

Ronald W. Holmes, Ph.D. in how they spend Title 1 funding. In view of several states’ plans, USDOE reports that Florida will use the flexibility from the NCLB to implement four key initiatives. Florida plans to implement a single accountability system to increase standards for exemplary performance on the national and international levels. It will maintain the school grading system to identify low-performing schools that need additional assistance and reward highperforming schools and students. It will adopt strategically the Common Core State Standards (CCSS). It will also revise the evaluation systems for teachers

and administrators. Similar to Florida, Georgia will use the flexibility from the NCLB to implement a single statewide accountability system and eliminate duplicative reporting requirements for Local Education Agencies (LEAs). It will also focus on improving effective teaching and learning that prepares students for college and careers through the College and Career Ready Performance Index. Additionally, Minnesota is making its waiver request to ensure that schools meet accountability standards for students through growth metrics coupled with assessment data of overall school performance. Minnesota will implement best practices such as turnaround principles and, like Florida and Georgia, incorporate a new evaluation system for teachers and administrators and eliminate duplicative reporting requirements of LEAs. While the 2011 National Assessment of Educational Progress exam re-

flects that New Jersey (NJ) ranked 50 out of 51 states in the size of the achievement gap between low and high-income students in 8th grade reading, NJ is submitting its waiver from the NCLB to also implement the Common Core State Standards, abolish requirements or provisions that places unnecessary burden on educators and incorporate a statewide framework for teacher and principal evaluations. It is expected that other states will apply for relief from NCLB since a significant number of schools did not meet their NCLB testing targets. While 28 of them, along with the District of Columbia, and Puerto Rico have submitted their letters of intent, the submission deadline is Feb. 21, 2012. From a guns and butter perspective, America’s schools must gain first priority from USDOE and, therefore, provide the resources to prepare students to gain meaningful employment. Otherwise, our schools will continue

to be outperformed by industrialized nations such as South Korea and Finland. By affording state education agencies relief from specific requirements of NCLB, this should keep schools from being labeled and punished thus driving them toward a self- fulfilling prophesy of a downward spiral. Just as our country can invest to send a robot on an eight-and-one half-month, 354 millionmile journey to Mars, it can invest the necessary resources to bring America’s schools back into competitive performance with other industrialized nations. Dr. Ronald W. Holmes is the author of Education Questions to be Answered. He is the National Superintendent of Education for the National Save the Family Now Movement, Inc., a former teacher, school administrator, and district superintendent and can be reached at rwholmes@capitaloutlook.com.

Florida State cuts ribbon to open FAMU National Alumni Veterans House Association releases statement service through a World

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The Florida Agricultural & Mechanical University National Alumni Association (FAMU NAA) extends our heartfelt sympathy and prayers to the family of our beloved Drum Major Robert Champion. We stand ready to support Florida A&M University’s president and the appointed task force that is investigating the marching band’s practices and circumstances surrounding the death of Mr. Champion. Under state law, the FAMU Board of Trustees (BOT) is ultimately responsible for implementing policies that govern the university and its leadership. No person, organization, or entity, outside the university president or the BOT, has the authority to dictate the hiring or firing process at this university. Therefore, we endorse only legitimate and administra-

tive procedures required to bring deliberate and analytical conclusions to both the university and law enforcement investigations in progress, based on accuracy and facts. We urge all educational institutions to use this tragedy as a teaching opportunity to prevent any action that can potentially harm and diminish the integrity of any institution or program. We call on all alumni, faculty, administrators, staff, and students to help us affect change that will yield positive results for generations to come. For more than 124 years, Florida A&M University has been an institution of excellence for young people from all walks of life. The university has consistently been ranked number one in awarding baccalaureate degrees to African-American students in various majors. Established for more than a century, FAMU’s marching

band has provided educational opportunities as well as international exposure for many talented students, and created leaders. The FAMU National Alumni Association has proudly supported the university for the past 110 years since the association was organized in 1901. As official investigations into this tragedy proceed, we stand with the family of Mr. Champion and the university, prepared to examine the full scope of its findings and to support its recommendations. We support the mission of Florida A&M University, and in that spirit we support the care, development, and welfare of our most valuable assets -- our students. We support all actions taken for the betterment of Florida A&M University.

Case Western Reserve University – call for applications for 2012-13 fellowship year

Special to the Outlook The College of Arts and Sciences at Case Western Reserve University is offering a postdoctoral fellowship for historical research in African American Studies. The fellowship is open to scholars committed to university research and teaching. Fellows must have received their Ph.D. no earlier than spring 2007. The one-year appointment in the History Department begins August 1, 2012, carries a stipend of $45,000 plus medical benefits and up to $5,000 for relocation and research-related expenses. The Fellow is expected to teach one history course (to be crosslisted with Ethnic Studies) in the spring semester, give a public presentation, and submit a report to the direc-

tor on the year’s activities. Completed applications must include a cover letter, CV, a sample of scholarly writing, and a project proposal (not to exceed five double-spaced pages) that outlines the applicant’s scholarship and research agenda for the fellowship year. Send three confidential letters of recommendation, including preferably one from the dissertation advisor, directly to Dr. Rhonda Y. Williams, Postdoctoral Fellowship in African American Studies, CWRU Department of History, 10900 Euclid Avenue, Cleveland, OH 44106-7107. Electronic applications accepted at HistoryPostDoc@case.edu. Deadline for receipt of all materials is March 16, 2012. Notification anticipated in early May.

In employment, as in education, Case Western Reserve University is committed to Equal Opportunity and Diversity. Women, veterans, members of underrepresented minority groups, and individuals with disabilities are encouraged to apply. Case Western Reserve University provides reasonable accommodations to applicants with disabilities. Applicants requiring a reasonable accommodation for any part of the application and hiring process should contact the Office of Inclusion, Diversity and Equal Opportunity at 216368-8877 to request a reasonable accommodation. Determinations as to granting reasonable accommodations for any applicant will be made on a case-bycase basis.

(left to right) Col. William Francis, FSU President Eric Barron, FSU Chapter of the Collegiate Veterans Association president Jared Lyon, and Vice Adm. (RET) Gordon S. Holder, cut the ribbon for the dedication. By Jeffery Seay ans Association. Special to the Outlook “This beautiful house has served as the home to As part of Florida eight Florida State UniverState University’s effort to sity presidents and as a welbecome the most veteran- come center for our alumfriendly campus in the na- ni,” Barron said. “Now it tion, the Pearl Tyner Wel- will continue its special come Center at the Alumni service to this institution Association complex will as a home and a welcombe the temporary location ing place for our studentof the Florida State Veter- veterans.” ans House until a permaThe Florida State Vetnent facility can be built. erans House will serve as A ceremonial ribbon the focal point for all camwas cut to mark the be- pus veteran resources, acaginning of the welcome demic advising, orientation center’s latest use. Joining and transition programFlorida State President Eric ming, personal and rehaJ. Barron at the ceremony bilitative support services, were Col. William “Billy” and assistance with VA edFrancis, director of the Vet- ucational benefits and certierans Center; retired Vice fication. Adm. Gordon S. Holder, Plans are under way to who is leading the univer- build a 35,000-square-foot sity’s fundraising efforts Florida State Veterans Cenin support of its veterans ter on West Jefferson Street initiatives; and Jared Lyon, near the Varsity Way roundpresident of the FSU Chap- about. It will celebrate past, ter of the Collegiate Veter- present and future military

War II museum, the Veterans House and the university’s ROTC offices. The center also is intended to promote collaboration between the three areas. The house, known as the Pearl Tyner Welcome Center, was built in 1888 by William McIntosh. It originally stood at the corner of Duval and Saint Augustine streets where the Florida Supreme Court stands today. In the 1940s, the house was moved to its present site. The last FSU president to live in the house was Talbot “Sandy” D’Alemberte, who moved out in 1999. Florida State College for Women alumna Pearl Tyner was the first to answer a call for donations to renovate the house into a welcome center. Because of her swift and generous $1 million gift, the university named the house in her honor.

The Pearl Tyner Welcome Center at the Alumni Association complex, the temporary location of the Florida State Veterans House.

Hampton University names new journalism school dean Special to the Outlook

Brett Pully

The Scripps Howard School of Journalism and Communications at Hampton University in Virginia has announced the appointment of Brett Pulley as its new dean. The appointment is effective Jan. 1, 2012. Pulley is currently the media and entertainment industries correspondent for Bloomberg News. Previously, he was a senior editor at Forbes and

was a reporter for the Wall Street Journal and the New York Times, where he was nominated for a Pulitzer Prize. He is the author of The Billion Dollar BET (John Wiley, 2004). A native of Washington, D.C., Pulley is a graduate of Hampton University. He holds a master’s degree in journalism from Northwestern University.

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Dec. 8 - Dec. 14, 2011 Religion Devotional –– “The Greatness of Joy”

www.capitaloutlook.com

“The Joy of Suffering” By Bruce Harrell There’s a lot that can be said about suffering. But after careful thought, joy does not come to mind. In fact, if the truth be told, The Joy of Suffering would appear to most of us – an oxymoron. Count it all joy when suffering? Suffering is something we try to avoid at all cost. Anything associated with pain or hurt, we flee from it. No one looks forward to going through bad things. Abuse, mistreatment, exploitation, loses, trials and tribulations, issues that try our faith. No, I don’t have a problem conceptualizing The Joy of Jesus, The Joy of

Service, The Joy of Prayer, The Joy of Giving and I thank God for the Joy of Fellowship. But, The Joy of Suffering? It almost seems like an insult to suggest to someone that they should find joy in their trials and suffering. And to someone who hasn’t experienced the transforming power of Christ, it very well may be. One of our background scriptures for this series on Joy is John 15:11. In this passage we find that pure joy is exactly what Jesus offers us when we find our freedom in Him. 11. These things have I spoken unto you, that my joy might remain in you, and that your joy might be full. Yes, as believers we are free to experience the joy of the Lord in the midst of suffering because we understand that we are to share in His suffering. Throughout the scripture, numerous efforts are made to help us understand that there are sound reasons for why we should rejoice in our

suffering. But we need to keep suffering in its proper context. Recently at a funeral, one of our Deaconesses spoke on the life of one of her dear friends and how she conducted herself while going thru her many trials. During her reflections, she reminded us of what the Apostle Peter said about suffering in 1st Peter 4:15: “Not as a murderer or thief or any kind of criminal or even as a meddler”. These are, if you will, self inflicted wounds; suffering for your sake rather than for the sake of Christ. Here, Peter is talking about imprisonments and circumstances that are purely providential from the hand of God. Things that have come into your life and there is nothing, humanly speaking, that you can do about it, but it has the potential to restrict your service for God. Verse 16 goes on to say that “If any man suffers as a Christian let him not be ashamed; but let him glorify God on this behalf.

No, we don’t see individuals jumping up and down with great expectation waiting for suffering to knock on our door. But the Apostle Paul talks about suffering in such a way that it tends to persuade believers to want to suffer. In Phil. 3:10 he introduces this radical concept of “The fellowship of His suffering”. He declares “That I may know Him and the power of His resurrection, and the fellowship of his sufferings, being made conformable unto his death. One commentary on this verse paraphrases it this way: “In order that I may personally know Him that I might both experience His resurrection power and share in His sufferings, and thus I will be more and more conformed to His death”. Verse 9 of that same scripture says: 9. And be found in Him, not having mine own righteousness which is of the law, but that which

is through the faith of Christ, the righteousness which is of God by faith. Paul is saying that the righteousness of God allows us to obtain a personal relationship with Jesus in our day to day experiences. When we go thru what we go thru; our trials, troubles, tribulations. When we are in the midst of our debts, deficits, doubts, depression, recession, oppression, persecution, demonic attacks – our periods of extreme heat. These day to day experiences help us to know Him. And knowing Him entails participating in His suffering. This companionship in sorrow establishes the most intimate and lasting of ties because afflicted hearts tend to cling to each other. My best friend some 20 years ago lost his younger brother who was shot and killed. And I went to visit with he and his family and when I got ready to leave, I reached into my wallet and gave him what I had. I told him that I hoped that this would help his family in

what ever needs they had. We hugged each other and cried a little bit and I left. Well, a few weeks later my brother was tragically shot and killed. My friend came by and we fellowshipped and before he left he pulled out this wallet and gave me all that he had and said to me, “I hope this will be of some help to your family.” Periodically when I look back on that incident I remember us suffering our losses together and how much closer we became because of the companionship in sorrow that we shared. Paul wants us to know that we are to establish this companionship in sorrow with Jesus. He also wants us to know that suffering can and often is, used to advance the gospel of Jesus Christ. And whatever it is that advances this gospel – we should rejoice that we are participants in it. Read this entire devotional online at www. capitaloutlook.com.

Pastors take the spiritual high road to stop hazing

Photo by ASHLEY HOGANS

Religious and community leaders gather to take their stance on hazing on HBCU campuses. By Ashley Hogans Outlook Staff Writer

Religious leaders in the Tallahassee Community are taking the high road to eradicate hazing on the campuses of Historical Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs). This comes after the recent death of Robert Champion, who was a drum major for the Florida A&M University Marching “100” Band. The 26 year old was pronounced dead after the Florida Classic in Orlando after Orange County deputies said hazing was a factor in Champion’s death. On Friday, Dec. 2 local pastors held a press conference at Bethel Missionary Baptist Church to announce a prayer service on Wednesday, Dec.7. During the conference religious leaders stated that the prayer service will help strengthen Champion’s family and the FAMU administration and community as a whole. Rev. Dr. R. B. Holmes

Jr., who is the pastor of Bethel Missionary Baptist Church thought it was important to hold a press conference to seek God’s guidance in developing policies to prevent hazing at HBCUs. “We have come together because hazing is a moral issue and therefore we must provide spiritual solutions and lend our moral voices to educate students that hazing must cease and be eliminated now and forever,” Rev. Dr. R. B. Holmes Jr., said. During the press conference the pastors declared that the

community-wide prayer service is not to blame individuals but to meditate, educate and call upon God to bring peace and unity to the situation. The Rev. O. Jermaine Simmons, Pastor of Jacob Chapel Free Will Baptist Church said it’s time for the pastors to inform students that hazing is unacceptable. “When we deal with so many students as I do at my church, and I’m sure other pastors do as well, it’s up to us to talk to the individual,” said Rev. O. Jermaine Simmons. “We have to address it on an individual level that you do

not have to let that happen to be a part of something. And, if something requires you to go through that type of experience just to be a part then it’s not worth it.” As an effort to eliminate hazing throughout HBCUs nationwide the pastors will host a workshop and worship service on January 16, 2012. The Rev. R. B. Holmes Jr., has appointed a National HBCU task force to develop a National Hazing Conference in the future. There will be a host of presidents serving on the historic committee such as Dr. Larry Rivers, President of Fort Valley State University; Dr. George Cooper, President of South Caroline State University; President Nathaniel Glover of Edward Waters College and Dr. Henry Lewis, President of Florida Memorial University. “We are hoping and praying that as we begin to move forward in these things that we can do it by the power of God; and that

God can move on the behalf of the minds of those who are doing this and there will be a change,” said Rev. Dr. Frank McDonald, pastor of Mount Pleasant Missionary

Baptist Church and radio host of The Power of Prayer on WTAL 1450 AM. Ashley Hogans can be contacted at ahogans@ capitaloutlook.com.

Reverend Dr. R. B. Holmes , Jr.

“The Christ Centered Church With a Program of Prayer and Progress ”

Dec. 8 - Dec. 14, 2011

Capital Outlook

www.capitaloutlook.com

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NNPA Region 2 Conference Educates Publishers on Importance of HIV/AIDS Coverage By Kyle S. Yeldell Program Activities Coordinator NNPA Foundation

The National Newspaper Publishers Association (NNPA) Region 2 Conference surpassed its mission by giving exceptional information to its publishers on the vitality of HIV/ AIDS coverage in the region’s newspapers. The conference was held at the Sheraton Orlando North hotel in Maitland, FL from November 17-19, with the first two days strictly set for forums and guest speakers. Rev. R. B. Holmes, the Region 2 President and owner of the Florida-based Capital Outlook newspaper, partnered the conference with his Save the Family Now Foundation, and created a highly intellectual series of informational sessions about the devastating disease. On Thursday, each speaker added a different perspective to the HIV/ AIDS epidemic. During the luncheon, Dr. Stephanie Sweet, a physician from the Renaissance Women’s Center in Nashville, TN, showcased how breakdowns in society’s images have led to a level of disconnection amongst people. The advent of social networking and reality TV have changed the way young people view themselves

and their counterparts, all of which translate into their physical relationships. According to Sweet, the drama attached to reality television shows can have a hugely negative effect on young people’s views of relationships. In addition, she urged people to accept that their natural sexual urges are normal and should be embraced, but tempered and engaged safely with another person. Saadia Coleman, an HIV/AIDS advocate and educator for the City of Boston Public Schools, made the spread of the disease very understandable with her remake of the “Telephone” game. With the help of audience members, she showed how every sexually active person is connected by their partner’s sexual past. This also orchestrated how difficult it can be to trace from whom a patient got the disease from. The apex of Thursday’s presentations was given by Dr. Donald J. Alcendor, Assistant Professor of Microbiology & Immunology for Meharry Medical College. Alcendor, who has studied HIV and AIDS for the last 30 years, unloaded a myriad of information about this deadly disease. Despite his use of highly scientific terms, such as Kaposi’s sarcoma and cytomegalovirus, he was extremely effective in

Dr. Wilbert Jordan

Dr. Stephanie Sweet

conveying his message in ways that completely eradicated what the audience had known about the virus. Some of the stark statistics Alcendor gave were: • 1.2 million people in the United States have HIV or AIDS • 74% of people who have died from HIV live in sub-Saharan Africa • Homosexual men account for only 2-4% of all HIV patients but cause 30,000 new cases a year • 66% of high school students are sexually active; 16% of which before the age of 13 • Men who have sex with men (MSM) have a rate of contracting HIV 44 times higher than straight men and 40 times higher than straight women • Black men ages 13-29 account for more HIV cases than White men ages 13-39 Alcendor gave the entire timeline of the virus from 1981 to 2011, but gave some amazingly posi-

tive medical updates. He spoke about the “Berlin Patient,” a man who suffered from HIV and leukemia. Timothy Ray Brown was diagnosed in 1995 with HIV, but received a bone marrow transplant in Germany that contained a rare allele that has seemingly cured him of all HIV-like symptoms. Five to fourteen percent of Europeans have the CCR5 delta-32 mutation that is immune to HIV, but it is very rare in African-Americans. Alcendor thinks that there can be a cure for the disease, but it will not come overnight. His research is focused on protecting vaginal skin cells that absorb the virus. “I am trying to identify specific proteins that are susceptible to HIV,” said Alcendor. He believes that protecting women from it will help eradicate the spread of the disease. On Friday, Dr. Wilbert Jordan, the director

Funeral from Page 1 FAMU for decades. “I vow as president of FAMU that Robert’s death will not be in vain,” Ammons said. Throughout the funeral procession, Champion’s family and friends sobbed in disbelief, as they watched his former band members from Southwest Dekalb High School and fellow drum majors from FAMU, escorted his horsedrawn carriage down the silent streets of Decatur. Following Champion’s

of the Oasis Clinic in Los Angeles, advocated for the press to reach out to its African-American experts when covering the disease. “There are several Black doctors who are on par or exceed experts of other races when it comes to HIV,” said Jordan. He believes that increase of focus in the African-American press will expand the knowledge about the disease amongst its community, which has contracted the virus at a disproportionate rate. Jordan, who was one of the first doctors to diagnose an HIV patient in Los Angeles in 1981, geared his presentation to inform the audience about the prevalence of MSM patients and the effect of their sexual behavior on the spread of the disease. Jordan specifically uses the term MSM to discuss men who have engaged in homosexual relationships. “The word ‘gay’ means feminine in our community, not homosexual,” said Jordan. Due to the stigma attached to homosexuality, many men don’t admit to sleeping with other men, according to Jordan. The social aspect of the African-American community is one of the largest reasons for the “down low” lifestyle, which means men who sleep with men but engage in heterosexual relationships. “Many men con-

tinue to sleep with women and sometimes have babies, just to make their mother proud,” said Jordan. However, these men are homosexual, but can’t face their sexuality to their family and friends. In a poll of 582 HIVinfected MSM, 20% of them considered themselves straight, while another 19% responded with no term. 24% identified with the term bisexual and 22% said they were gay. 27% had fathered children and 64% were molested as a child. The molestation has a huge effect on their sexual relationships. “There is nowhere for a kid to go in our community for outreach,” said Jordan. Many boys who were molested feel a level of guilt the rest of their lives without being able to discuss what was done to them, continued Jordan. Jordan also added the high level of incarceration amongst African-American men that has heightened by homosexual relationships and the spread of HIV amongst that demographic. The conference left many on-goers stunned by the information, but not completely overwhelmed. “It was in-depth and real,” said Terrika Mitchell, a writer for the Capital Outlook. “It was very visual, but I enjoyed it.”

work with institutions like Innovation Park, and Florida State University’s Jim Moran Institute, FAMU’s Small Business Development Center and SCORE to promote the sustainability of currently abandoned buildings. Akinyemi, who is president/CEO of Akin & Associates Architects Inc., said the board drafted ideas in the Economic Development Workshop, held Sept. 13, that will continue to develop the area. They include: providing additional upfront incentives for prospective businesses to come to Leon County; establishing a program to assist business expansion with on-site permitting assistance; and supporting efforts to attract retirees to the area. For the man who says he is deeply motivated by “ordinary people doing extraordinary things,” Akinyemi also recognizes his constituents. “I am honored and

humbled by this opportunity,” he said. “I appreciate the level of civic engagement, generosity and open mindedness of the residents of Leon County, and I will try my very best to provide the leadership and guidance that our citizens expect and deserve.” Ironically, Commissioner Akinyemi isn’t even a Tallahassee native but has an eye for its needs. The FAMU graduate has been a resident for more than 20 years and lives here with his wife, Elvira, and two children.

Leader from Page 1 death, Ammons suspended all band performances and assembled a task force “to determine if there are any unauthorized and questionable activities associated with the culture of the Marching 100.” Four students were dismissed from the university after authorities suspected hazing in Champion’s death, FAMU director of media relations Pam Tolson confirmed last week. Their expulsion was first announced in a let-

ter from Ammons to the FAMU Board of Trustees.

Former band members from Southwest Dekalb High School and fellow drum majors from FAMU, escorted the carriage.

Akinyemi hopes to continue to develop the commission’s strengths while also making progress in other areas such as community participation in decision making. “As chair, I plan to aim for a balance between efficiency and thoroughness, continue (the board’s) fiscal discipline, and improve decorum and mutual respect,” said the board member. “I want to improve public perception of our transparency and inclusiveness by thoroughly considering public opinion and being proactive on big issues by involving the public early.” In a Sept. 12 Tallahassee Democrat article, Akinyemi outlined eight months of collaboration with County staff, Chamber/Economic Development Council staff and about 30 local, private sector CEOs to generate ideas to improve the economy and get more of our citizens employed. Additionally, Akinyemi has proposed to

Terrika Mitchell can be contacted at tmitchell@ capitaloutlook.com.

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National

www.capitaloutlook.com

Dec. 8 - Dec. 14, 2011

NMSDC Names Toyota Motor Engineering & Manufacturing Corporation Of The Year Top Supplier Diversity Professional, Affiliate Council and Minority Businesses Also Honored

Special to the Outlook The National Minority Supplier Development Council, Inc.®, (NMSDC®) presented Toyota Motor Engineering & Manufacturing North America, Inc. (TEMA) with the prestigious “Corporation of the Year” award at a black-tie awards banquet to cap its four-day conference and business opportunity fair in Atlanta, Georgia. NMSDC’s Corporation of the Year award is the most sought-after honor for major corporations that are dedicated to improving the overall participation of Asian, Black, Hispanic and Native American suppliers in the global corporate supply chain. “This recognition is reserved for corporations that fully embrace the value that minority suppliers bring to the corporate supply chain,” said NMSDC President Joset Wright. “Toyota’s commitment to supplier diversity and minority supplier development is firmly embedded in the corporate culture. Its comprehensive, world-class supplier diversity process is worthy of replication.” In winning the award, TEMA demonstrated a strong commitment to building capacity and capability of minority businesses within their corporation and in partnership with NMSDC. The company led two modules of NMSDC’s Centers of Excellence program – a network of re-

NMSDC President Joset Wright (center) presents the Corporation of the Year award to Shigeki Terashi, president and chief operating officer of Toyota Motor Engineering & Manufacturing North America, Inc. gional business modules comprised of corporate supplier diversity/purchasing executives and minority business enterprise (MBE) owners. The program uses NMSDC “best practices” for minority supplier development to enhance corporate supplier diversity processes and build capacity for MBEs. To date, seven participating MBEs companies were awarded business directly with Toyota. The automaker also sponsored two companies in NMSDC’s Corporate Plus® program, a special classification for minority businesses with proven success in executing national contracts and the capacity to handle more. TEMA showed its commitment to the growth of minority suppliers by spending $1.5 billion with MBEs in 2010 – a 36% increase over its 2009 spend. The increase earned TEMA entry into the Billion Dollar Roundtable, and was

realized during a challenging time for the company. During this down time, the company also deployed resources to its supply base that saved 40,000 jobs and ensured readiness for return to normal production. Additionally, the automaker facilitated the creation of four new minority joint ventures that will provide more than $250M in new MBE spend annually. TEMA also increased spend with professional service MBEs by adding spend in areas such as marketing, accounting and legal services. With a focus on Tier 2, the automaker added more stringent measures to hold their direct suppliers more accountable for utilizing minority suppliers. The result was an increase of more than 30% in Tier 2 spend. In support of Tier 2, TEMA hosts an annual diverse business exchange to help their suppliers connect with potential certified minority businesses. A “best

practice” for second tier minority business development, last year’s event resulted in more than $60 million in new contracts for minority businesses. Active engagement with the NMSDC network also contributed to TEMA’s selection as Corporation of the Year. The company participates with NMSDC and its affiliate councils, holding corporate membership with 10 councils and executive leadership roles with four. TEMA’s senior executives lead the company’s commitment to minority businesses and shared internal best practices with their peers by speaking at eight events last year. At its banquet, NMSDC also presented awards for individual leadership in Minority Supplier Development, Suppliers of the Year and Regional Council of the Year. Marianne Strobel, assistant vice president of global supplier diversity at AT&T, received the Minority Supplier Development Leader of the Year award in recognition of exemplary development programs for minority business owners, as well as exceptional leadership and impact throughout corporate America. AT&T is a member of the Billion Dollar Roundtable, and also spent $1.3 billion with its Tier 2 suppliers in 2010. Four top minority businesses were recognized as National Suppliers of the Year in recognition of

their business acumen and excellence in community service. They are: Circle One, Inc., of Atlanta, Georgia, in the category for businesses with sales less than $1 million; Way To Be Designs, LLC of Hayward, California, among firms with $1 million to $10 million in sales; Homestead Packaging Solutions, Inc., of Roswell, Georgia, in the category for businesses with sales between $10 million and $50 million; and Group O, Inc., in Milan, Illionis, for firms with sales greater than $50 million. Twelve minority businesses were honored as Regional Suppliers of the Year. They are BridgeWork Partners, Lewisville, Texas; C.D. Moody Construction Company, Inc., Lithonia, Georgia; D.W. Morgan Company, Pleasanton, California; Gonzalez Saggio & Harlan, LLP, Milwaukee, Wisconsin; Multicultural Entrepreneurial Institute, Inc. (MEI), Milwaukee, Wisconsin; Red Brown Klé, Inc., Milwaukee, Wisconsin; República, LLC, Miami, Florida; SHI International Corp., Somerset, New Jersey; SearchPros Staffing, LLC, Citrus Heights, California; Superior Maintenance Company (SMC), Elizabethtown, Kentucky; TKT & Associates, Inc., Louisville, Kentucky; and Translation Plus, Inc., Hackensack, New Jersey. The Dallas/Fort Worth Minority Supplier Devel-

opment Council earned Regional Council of the Year honors for providing outstanding service to hundreds of corporations and minority businesses in the Dallas/Fort Worth Metropolitan area. About NMSDC Providing a direct link between corporate America and minority-owned businesses is the primary objective of the National Minority Supplier Development Council, one of the country’s leading business membership organizations. It was chartered in 1972 to provide increased procurement and business opportunities for minority businesses of all sizes. The NMSDC Network includes a national office in New York and 37 Regional Councils across the country. There are 3,500 corporate members throughout the network, including America’s top publiclyowned, privately-owned and foreign-owned companies as well as universities, hospitals and other buying institutions. The Regional Councils certify and match more than 16,000 minority-owned businesses with member corporations that want to purchase their goods and services. For more information about NMSDC, call (212) 944-2430 or visit the Web site at www.nmsdc.org.

Jacksonville Jaguars sold to Illinois businessman for $760 million Special to the Outlook For the first time ever, the Jaguars will have a new owner. One day before the

18-year anniversary of the Jaguars being named an expansion franchise, the team told its employees Wayne Weaver sold the or-

ganization to Shahid Khan, a Pakistani-born businessman who tried to buy the St. Louis Rams last season. Khan will be the first mi-

nority to be a controlling owner of an NFL team.

CLASSIFIEDS

Employment

LEON COUNTY BOARD OF COUNTY COMMISSIONERS JOB OPENINGS THE FOLLOWING POSITION HAS A CLOSING DATE OF: December 9, 2011 Planner I THE FOLLOWING POSITIONS HAVE A CLOSING DATE OF: December 16, 2011

on these positions and other job openings: • Go to www.leoncountyfl. gov/HR/jobs/joblist.asp • Call our Job Line at (850) 606-2403 • Watch Comcast Channel 16 (Tuesdays 9am-12am) • Visit Human Resources, 315 South Calhoun Street, 5th Floor, Suite #502 An Equal Opportunity Employer

Legal Notice IN THE CIRCUIT COURT OF THE SECOND JUDICIAL CIRCUIT, IN AND FOR LEON COUNTY, FLORIDA PROBATE DIVISION

Library Special Services Coordinator

FILE NUMBER: CP-242

Crew Chief I (Tree Removal Specialist)

IN RE: ESTATE OF

THE FOLLOWING POSITIONS ARE “Open Until Filled”

2010-

Luke McRay Thomas, Deceased. NOTICE TORS

TO

CREDI-

GIS Database Analyst Application Development Analyst (Applications & Database) IT Technical Support Specialist II THE FOLLOWING POSITIONS ARE “OPEN CONTINUOUSLY” Paramedic (PRN) EMT (PRN) For additional information

The administration of the Estate of Luke McRay Thomas, deceased, File Number 2010-CP-242 who died testate, is pending in the Circuit Court for Leon County, Florida, Probate Division, the address of which is 301 South Monroe Street, Tallahassee, Florida 32301. The names and addresses of the Personal Representative and Personal Representative’s attorney are set forth below.

OF THIS NOTICE. ALL INTERESTED PERSONS ARE NOTIFIED THAT: All persons on whom this notice is served who have objections that challenge the qualifications of the personal representative, venue or jurisdiction of this Court are required to file their objections with this Court, WITHIN THE LATER OF THREE MONTHS AFTER THE DATE OF THE FIRST PUBLICATION OF THIS NOTICE OR THIRTY DAYS AFTER THE DATE OF SERVICE OF A COPY OF THIS NOTICE ON THEM. All creditors of the decedent and other persons having claims or demands against decedent’s estate on whom a copy of this notice is served within three months after the date of the first publication of this notice must file their claims with this Court WITHIN THE LATER OF THREE MONTHS AFTER THE DATE OF THE FIRST PUBLICATION OF THIS NOTICE OR THIRTY DAYS AFTER THE DATE OF SERVICE OF A COPY OF THIS NOTICE ON THEM. All other creditors of the decedent and persons having claims or demands against the decedent’s estate must file their claims with this Court WITHIN THREE MONTHS AFTER THE DATE OF THE FIRST PUBLICATION

ALL CLAIMS, DEMANDS, AND OBJECTIONS NOT SO FILED WILL BE FOREVER BARRED. The date of the first publication of this Notice is __December 8_ 2011. Personal Representative: Doris Ann Thomas Howard 2709 Lake Henrietta Street Tallahassee, Fl. 32310 Attorney for Personal Representative: Martin L. Black, Esquire 219 East Virginia Street Tallahassee, Florida 32301 850-222-1343

Announcements THE SCHOOL BOARD OF LEON COUNTY announces a regular meeting to which all interested persons are invited to attend. TIME: December 13, 2011 at 6:00 p.m. PLACE: Howell Center, 3955 W. Pensacola Street PURPOSE: Meeting

Business

An Agenda Review Workshop for School Board Members who wish to attend is scheduled for 3:30 p.m. on Monday, December 12, 2011 in Portable #2, 2757 W. Pensacola Street.

All interested persons are invited to attend. In accordance with the Americans with Disabilities Act, persons needing a special accommodation to participate in this proceeding should contact the Superintendent’s office not later than five working days prior to the proceeding. For further information please contact: Superintendent’s Office Leon County Schools 2821 W. Pensacola Street Tallahassee, Florida 32304 (850) 487-7247 Signed: Jackie Pons, Superintendent

Invitation to Bid PROJECT: QUINCYGADSDEN COUNTY AIRPORT CONSTRUCT T-HANGARS THIS PROJECT CONSISTS OF CONSTRUCTION OF NEW T-HANGARS AT QUINCYGADSDEN COUNTY AIRPORT COOK BROTHERS, INC. GENERAL CONTRACTORS’S LICENSE NO. CGC-046567 IS BIDDING THE FOLLOWING PROJECT AND WOULD APPRECIATE A BID FROM YOUR FIRM.

BIDS DUE: D E CEMBER 19, 2011.

2:00 PM, Eastern Time F A X BIDS TO 850-514-1007 or MAIL BIDS TO 1255 COMMERCE BLVD., MIDWAY, FL 32343 Cook Brothers, Inc. is actively seeking bids from qualified DBE subcontractors for the following scopes of work. SCOPES: SITEWORK, TERMITE CONTROL, CONCRETE, METAL BUILDING, THERMAL AND MOISTURE PROTECTION, DOORS, FRAMES & HARDWARE, HYDRAULIC LIFT DOORS, GLASS AND GLAZING, JOINT SEALANTS, GYPSUM WALL BOARD, PAINTING/SEALING, FLOORING, PLUMB ING, ELECTRICAL PLANS AND SPECIFICATIONS: PLANS ARE AVAILABLE FOR PURCHASE AT THE BLUEPRINT SHOP AND AVAILABLE FOR VIEWING ONLINE AT THEBLUEPRINTSHOP.COM (CLICK ON PLANWELL, GO TO BOTTOM-LEFT OF PAGE AND CLICK ON PUBLIC PLANROOM. LOOK FOR PROJECT # 99-0046 ( QUINCY T-HANGERS) OR FOR REVIEW ONLY AT OUR OFFICE. ADDRESS ALL QUESTIONS TO PETE MABRY AT (850) 514-1006 OR phm@cookbrothersinc. com

Dec. 8 - Dec. 14, 2011

Capital Outlook T:11”

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© 2011 Toyota Motor Sales, U.S.A., Inc.

The all-new 2012 Prius v

toyota.com

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Can a new way of thinking save the world? The Toyota Green Initiative can help you think greener, too. Check out ToyotaGreen.com for ways to help the planet. You may want to start with a lightbulb.

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Next time you’re at the store eyeing those funny looking energy-efficient light bulbs, remember that they drastically cut down on greenhouse gas emissions from power plants. It’s a greener way of thinking, something that Toyota knows well. From hybrid technology to waste reduction.

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Community News

Dec. 8 - Dec. 14, 2011

Western Dance

Special to the Outlook The Delta Kappa Omega Chapter of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority Inc. hosted its Annual Western Dance on September 30 at the North Florida Fairgrounds.

Proceeds from the dance benefitted such community programs as scholarships and breast cancer awareness. The president of the organization, Darice Richard, welcomed all who came

and thanked them for supporting the organization’s efforts to help the community. She also recognized members of other Greek organizations, elected officials and members of the chapter before recognizing and praising Vernae Randolph, chairman; Jowanna Oates, co-chairman and members of the Ways and Means Committee for their work in planning the dance. One of the aspects of the evening that everyone looked forward to was the contest for the best dressed.

Tiffany Randolph called for contestants for the best boots first. The audience chose Barbara Hobbs and Leonard Pugh as winners. Ruth Hobbs and Julian White were chosen for the best western outfits, and Claude and Lillian Brown were the best dressed couple. Each winner received a gift. Everyone enjoyed dancing, eating and having fun in a western atmosphere for a worthwhile cause. Best Boots: Leonard Pugh and Barbara Hobbs

Best Outfits: Ruth Hobbs and Julian White

Ways and Means Committee Rapper, Author and Actor Common Scheduled to Speak at FAMU “2011-2012 Lyceum Series” When: Dec. 10 @ 7:30 p.m.

Where: Lee Hall Auditorium Tickets will be available through the FAMU Ticket Office location in the Al-

Ronald W. Holmes, Ph.D.: EDUCATION QUESTIONS TO BE ANSWERED In a time of an uncertain economy, this book provides solutions for improving America’s schools through federal funding, programs, services, community partnerships, accreditation and leadership standards. The book can be very helpful to school stakeholders such as parents, teachers, principals and district administrators since the topics focus on the K-12 environments. With a plethora of references to support numerous suggestions, discrepancies and issues, this book can be useful to graduate students, professors, researchers, university administrators and education state agencies. While America’s schools are faced with numerous challenges in today’s society such as the lack of family stability and parental involvement, this book also provides a roadmap for successful and struggling schools in the U.S. To order a copy of EDUCATION QUESTIONS TO BE ANSWERED, visit: http://www.authorhouse.com or call 1-888-280-7715, Amazon.com or Barnes and Noble (bn.com).

fred Lawson Jr. Multipurpose Center and Teaching Gymnasium and ticketmaster.com for $20, $10 and $5. Contact the FAMU Office

of Communications at 850599-3413

FAMU 2011 Fall Commencement When: Dec. 16 @ 6 p.m. Where: The Alfred Lawson Jr. Multipurpose Center and Teaching Gymnasium.

Want to Know More About Prayer and its Power? Need Someone to Pray for You or a Loved One? Have a Praise Report?

Tune into WTAL 1450AM Every Monday, Tuesday, and Wednesday at 11:30 a.m. For CALL

850-671-1450

For Prayer Requests and Praise Reports CALL

850-877-0105

For Sponsorship Opportunities

Hosted By Rev. Dr. Frank McDonald

NNPA Region 2 Conference offers futuristic outlook for publishers By Kyle S. Yeldell Program Activities Coordinator NNPA Foundation

The National Newspaper Publishers Association (NNPA) utilized its Region 2 Conference to usher new developments and opportunities for its member papers Nov. 18. NNPA Region 2 President R. B. Holmes, Jr., the publisher of the Tallahassee-based Capital Outlook, helped facilitate the conference in his home state with the help of co-chairs Jackie Hampton (Mississippi Link) and Rosetta Miller Perry (Tennessee Tribune). The conference offered several forums to help further marketing and advertising ideas. Goren Dillard, Vice President of Marketing for the NNPA, explained the various methods of advertising and the importance of incentives for sales staff. He believes that incentive-

based goals will be highly successful into increasing sales and subscriptions, because it gives the staff more of a reason to perform better. Dillard and Francis Page, the editor and publisher of the Houston Style Magazine, also proclaimed the importance and uniqueness of the NNPA’s partnership with the Nielsen Company for its State of the African-American Consumer report. The report was the first Nielsen has ever done specifically on AfricanAmericans, equipped with in-depth statistics on the spending behavior of the demographic. Page enlightened the audience on several advances on the digital landscape. The advent of social networking sites has forever changed the newspaper publishing industry, but Page urged the audience to delve fully into this space and embrace the changes. Page described the

functionalities of various social networking sites for the publishers to be more familiar with their offerings and how these will benefit their newspapers. He said that his goal for the NNPA in 2012 is for every paper to have a state-ofthe-art digital presence. The conference also served as a networking and thought-sharing experience for the publishers. Each gave best business practices to help further the overall quality of the Black press.

Holmes spoke about some of his ideas for the future, which included a heightened effort into marketing and promotional events, including a possible debate during the 2012 presidential campaign. NNPA Chairman Cloves Campbell, Jr., the publisher of the Arizona Informant, echoed Page’s sentiments about the NNPA’s digital prospects for 2012. He also announced that his plan to increase sponsorships for the organization.

Photo by RICHARD MOORE

Region 2 Conference ushered new developments and opportunities for its member papers Nov. 18.

Photo by RICHARD MOORE

Publishers and others sit in on a mini-social media session led by Page.

Photo by RICHARD MOORE

Page, publisher of Houston Style Magazine, leads a short interactive workshop on social media.

Photo by RICHARD MOORE

NNPA Region 2 President Dr. R.B. Holmes Jr. (left) and NNPA Chair Cloves Campbell Jr. (right)

Photo by RICHARD MOORE

NNPA Region 2 Publishers Brenda Andrews, Fran Farrer and Tom Watson (left to right)

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Capital Outlook

Dec. 8 - Dec. 14, 2011

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Apply for the H&R Block® Emerald Prepaid MasterCard®— a smarter, safer, and more convenient way to pay than cash.

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wherever Debit MasterCard is accepted. Can your cash do that?

Visit an H&R Block tax office to get your refund loaded onto an Emerald Card.® Go to hrblock.com/emeraldapply to learn more.

The H&R Block Emerald Prepaid MasterCard is issued by H&R Block Bank, a Federal Savings Bank, Member FDIC, pursuant to a license from MasterCard International Incorporated. Fees may apply. Emerald Card is a trademark of HRB Innovations, Inc. This product may not be available at some locations. MasterCard, the MasterCard Brand Mark and Priceless are registered trademarks of MasterCard International Incorporated. ©2011 MasterCard.

Capital Outlook

Dec. 8 - Dec. 14, 2011

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Call 866.484.7057 *Offer ends 12/31/2011. Offer and stated rates are available to new, first-time CenturyLink™ Prism™ TV residential customers in select areas only. The $65.95 monthly rate applies to up to 10 Mbps Pure Broadband and Prism™ TV package for six (6) months of service with a minimum service commitment of twelve (12) months, after which standard rates apply. A $6.99 monthly DVR service fee applies when the Quad Play DVR is purchased with Prism™ TV package. Promotional offer cannot be combined with any other Prism offers. All prices, packages and programming are subject to change without notice. Taxes, fees, and surcharges will apply. An additional monthly fee (including professional installation, if applicable) and a shipping and handling fee will apply to customer’s modem or router. Customer must cancel DVR and/or HD service by calling CenturyLink Customer Service before the end of the three-month promotional period to avoid monthly charges, or the standard monthly rate for each service will apply until service(s) are cancelled. Offers may be limited to specific locations. General – Services and offers not available everywhere. CenturyLink may change, cancel, or substitute offers and services, or vary them by service area, at its sole discretion without notice. Requires credit approval and deposit may be required. Additional restrictions apply. Terms and Conditions – All products and services listed are governed by tariffs, local terms of service, or terms and conditions posted at http://about.centurylink.com. 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Performance will vary due to conditions outside of network control and no speed is guaranteed. Telephone landline is part of the service only for the purpose of data traffic transmission/connection and cannot be used for voice traffic transmission, except for 911 services. CenturyLink™ Prism™ TV – All plans require separate local phone service plan and include digital channels (including local channels), one (1) set-top box (STB), one (1) modem gateway, and up to four (4) standard direct video streams to residence. CenturyLink-provided STBs are required to view TV. If a term agreement applies to the offer, an early termination fee in the amount of discounts received applies if customer terminates services before the end of the applicable term agreement. Local channel availability varies by market. Caller ID service must be purchased separately to enable the on-screen Caller ID feature; Caller ID feature is not available in all areas. High Definition (HD) available on all TV plans for an additional $11.99/month, and up to two (2) of the up to four (4) video streams can be in HD. Customer’s location determines both HD availability and the maximum number of HD video streams (between 0 and 2 HD streams) a customer can view and record at any one time per residence, regardless of the number of STBs in the household. All non-HD video streams are provided in standard definition. Subscription to service precludes customers from purchasing high-speed Internet services from any third party. Additional charges will apply for additional programming packages, movie channel subscriptions (except for Prism™ Premium plan), Pay Per View movies and events, On Demand purchases, and premium services/subscriptions for all plans. Some subscription services, events, and broadcast network service may be blacked out in customer’s area. Customer may dial *67 (touch-tone) or 1167 (rotary) prior to placing a call to block their calling information. In order for media sharing to operate correctly customer must have Windows XP or VISTA and Windows Media Player 11. Vacation Program – Offer available to residential customers only. Only certain CenturyLink services are eligible for the Vacation Program; third party services received through CenturyLink are not eligible. Offer may include a reduced monthly recurring charge for a predetermined number of months each year, retention of equipment and suspension of service, programming and agreement during Vacation Program activation. A zero balance for each applicable service is required for eligibility. If customer does not contact CenturyLink to resume full activation of applicable services before the end of six (6) consecutive month period, all applicable monthly charges, fees, surcharges, contractual obligations, etc., will resume automatically. Vacation Program services will have restrictions and limitations that will vary for each applicable service. Contact CenturyLink for details. Equipment – Minimum equipment and CenturyLink professional installation are required. At initial installation, each customer receives: one (1) VDSL 2 modem; up to six (6) STBs (standard plan includes one (1) STB; additional STBs are available for an additional monthly rate, per STB); and one (1) remote control per STB installed. All equipment must be returned to designated CenturyLink retail store within thirty (30) days after service disconnection in an undamaged condition, or customer is charged for each equipment piece not returned or returned as damaged. Prism™ TV Plan – Quad Play DVR service excluded and is available for an additional monthly fee. Green Lantern: ©2011 Warner Bros. Entertainment Inc. All Rights Reserved. ©2011 CenturyLink, Inc. All Rights Reserved. The name CenturyLink and the pathways logo are trademarks of CenturyLink, Inc. All other marks are the property of their respective owners.

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