Issuu

The power of the African-American consumer. . . Page 2 50 Cents

Vol. 37, No. 39: Section 01

Tallahassee, T allahassee, Florida

www.capitaloutlook.com

Sept. 29 - Oct. 5, 2011 2011

Cain win in Florida straw poll upends Florida race By Brandon Larrabee

Ministry Fair

The News Service of Florida

1363 E. Tennessee St, Tallahassee, Fla. 32310

A Seminole state of mind

Cain easily won the straw poll with 37.1 percent of the 2,657 ballots cast. Texas Gov. Rick Perry, came in second with 15.4 percent. Former Massachusetts Gov. Mitt Romney took 14 percent of the ballots. percent; former Utah Gov. Jon Huntsman, 2.3 percent; and U.S. Rep. Michele Bachmann of Minnesota, 1.5 percent. In a video message to his supporters, Cain reveled in the win. “Folks, this is what you call momentum... The Herman Cain

train is picking up steam,” he said. The Perry campaign tried to distance itself from the notion that the loss had hurt the Texas governor’s chances of securing Florida and the nomination in the primary fight, pointing out that Perry had been in the race for less

than two months. “This is a devastating loss for Mitt Romney,” press secretary Mark Miner said. “He’s been running for president for over five years, and he came in third today.” But Romney had long ago announced he would bypass direct See CAIN, Page 2

Florida A&M: Beyond the hill

By Sharon Gilmore Berrian Contributing Writer

When Connie E. Jenkins-Pye began her tenure as the national president of the Florida State University Black Alumni Association (FSU BAA) in August, it put this three-time FSU graduate in prime position to do even more of what she loves doing – helping others and giving back to the alma mater that has meant so much to her over the years. The FSU BAA was founded in 1983 and is an officially chartered affiliate of the FSU Alumni Association, and is incorporated as a not-for-profit organization in the state of Florida. As its president, Jenkins-Pye now leads a fast-growing national association that provides a powerful frameSee POW, Page 2

President James H. Ammons By Terrika Mitchell

Outlook Staff Writer

Those coming to “the Hill” this Homecoming season have a special occasion to commemorate – the beginning of Florida A&M University’s year-long 125th anniversary celebration. The event is scheduled to open with the President’s Gala – an annual Homecoming treat – on Oct. 7. This milestone is especially momentous for alumni, who will be recognized for establishing a legacy of excellence, and for current and future generations of Rattlers who stride in the footsteps of black leaders and innovators. “This is an exhilarating and monumental milestone in Florida A&M University’s history,” said FAMU President James H. Ammons. “As we honor FAMU’s quasquicentennial and reflect on

FSU BAA Spring 2011 Graduation Celebration at FSU Alumni Center Contributing Writer

The Florida State University Black Alumni Association (FSU BAA) is hosting the Black Alumni Reunion themed “Seminole State of Mind” in Tallahassee on Oct. 27-30. The reunion will be held the same weekend the Seminole football team battles the North Carolina State Wolfpack at

OPINION / 4 EDUCATION / 5 RELIGION / 6

Briefs

the university’s achievements, I can not think of a better way to signal the commemoration’s of official launch than to honor a legend [William P. Foster] who was a key figure in the life and history of FAMU.” FAMU has come a long way since it was founded as the State Normal College for Colored Students with two instructors and 15 students. By 1905, it was established as an institution of higher learning under the Board of Control’s management. Five years later, Florida Agricultural and Mechanical College for Negroes (FAMC) awarded its first degrees. In the spirit of expansion, which the school excelled in both physically and internally between 1924-1968, FAMC was declared a university by the Florida legislature in 1953. Former presidents such as:

Thomas DeSaille Tucker, Nathan B. Young, John Robert Edward Lee Sr., George W. Gore and Benjamin L. Perry established the university as a stellar institution in the fields of medicine, law and education. Consequently, the unmatched blood, sweat and tears of past FAMU administrators is why Black Issues in Higher Education recognized the university for awarding more baccalaureate degrees to African Americans than any other institution in this nation in 1999. FAMU was also named the first recipient of the Time Magazine-Princeton Review College of the Year in 1997 under then President Dr. Frederick S. Humphries, who is also an alumnus of the college. When a season of unexpected turbulent times came for the university, such as the uniSee FAMU, Page 2

Florida State University black alumni to host reunion

By Sharon Gilmore Berrian

Inside

LOCAL/NATIONAL / 3

COMMUNITY NEWS/ 7

Person of the Week

Connie E. Jenkins-Pye

PRST STD U.S. POSTAGE PAID Tallahassee, FL Permit No. 562 ADDRESS SERVICE REQUESTED

Herman Cain, a pizza magnate seen as a minor candidate in a crowded field for the GOP nomination, scored an upset victory Sept. 24 in the Republican Party of Florida’s Presidency 5 straw poll, raising questions about the standing of the two front-runners and the bellwether status of the fundraising event. Cain easily won the straw poll with 37.1 percent of the 2,657 ballots cast. Texas Gov. Rick Perry, viewed as the favorite in the event after riding to the top of opinion polls, came in second with 15.4 percent. Former Massachusetts Gov. Mitt Romney, the nationwide favorite before Perry entered the race, took 14 percent of the ballots. After those three were former U.S. Sen. Rick Santorum of Pennsylvania with 10.9 percent; U.S. Rep. Ron Paul of Texas, 10.4 percent; former U.S. House Speaker Newt Gingrich, 8.4

Doak Campbell Stadium. “The FSU Black Alumni Association Reunion is important because it gives us an opportunity to reconnect to our roots, said Terri “Shay” Alexander, FSU BAA’s reunion chair. “It is the time to renew old bonds, rekindle pride in our alma mater, create traditions and give back to an institution that gave so much to us.” Alexander says that the FSU

Photo by CHARLIE A. JACKSON/FSUBAA PHOTOGRAPHER

BAA reunion serves as a central event – unifying black alumni from all decades, affiliated with every college and school, Greekletter organizations and various interest groups. “The FSU Black Alumni Association’s primary goals are to serve, involve and inform black alumni,” said Connie E. JenkinsPye, FSU BAA’s national president. “This reunion, designed to

be our largest and best ever, will offer many opportunities for information gathering, networking and connecting with professionals from across the nation.” The FSU Black Student Union (BSU), led by President Kiaira McCoy, is co-sponsoring various events to provide opportunities for current students to connect with black alumni and See REUNION, Page 2

Money flows in Tallahassee Willie Sutton robbed banks because “that’s where the money is.” Sometimes it seems as if Florida legislators head back to the Capitol for committee meetings for the same reason. A captive audience of lobbyists is simply too much for many lawmakers to resist. Here it is September, with the next election more than a year away, and fundraising is approaching a fever pitch, with a long list of $500-a-person “receptions” this week. Taxpayers are paying for all 160 lawmakers to attend an abbreviated three-day “week” of House and Senate committee sessions. As the afternoons wind down though, Adams Street teems with commerce – the political kind. Gov. Scott, GOP consider taking courts out of foreclosure process The push is on in Florida to cut the courts out of the foreclosure process. Supporters of the concept – which is used in nearly 30 states – say it will speed foreclosures; get houses back onto the real estate market and boost the economy. Opponents say it puts property owners at the mercy of banks. Gov. Rick Scott, House Speaker Dean Cannon and Senate President Mike Haridopolos all say they are interested in considering legislation to change Florida laws so judges won’t have to referee foreclosures. And the House Civil Justice Subcommittee on Sept. 20 heard a presentation on foreclosures detailing states that include courts in the process versus those that don’t. Bottom line: Foreclosures take longer and are more expensive in states that involve courts, said state economist Amy Baker.

This Week’s Word “Blessed are the merciful: for they shall obtain mercy.” Matthew 5:7 (KJV)

www.capitaloutlook.com

Capital Outlook

The power of the African-American consumer Special to the Outlook African-Americans’ buying power is expected to reach $1.1 trillion by 2015, according to The State of the African-American Consumer from Nielsen and the National Newspaper Publishers Association (NNPA), a federation of more than 200 black community newspapers across the U.S. This growing economic potential presents an opportunity for Fortune 500 companies to examine and further understand this important, flourishing market segment. Likewise, when consumers are more aware of their buying power, it can help them make informed decisions about the companies they choose to support. “Too often, companies don’t realize the inherent differences of our community, are not aware of the market size impact and have not optimized efforts to develop messages

Report Highlights • With a buying power of nearly $1 trillion annually, if African-Americans were a country, they’d be the 16th largest country in the world. • The number of AfricanAmerican households earning $75,000 or higher grew by almost 64 percent, a rate close to 12 percent greater than the change in the overall population’s earning between 2000 and 2009. This continued growth in affluence, social influence and household income will continue to impact the community’s economic power. • African Americans make more shopping trips than all other groups, but spend

less money per trip. African Americans in higher income brackets, also spend 300 percent more in higher-end retail grocers more than any other high income household. • There were 23.9 million active African-American Internet users in July 2011 – 76 percent of whom visited a social networking/ blog site. • 33 percent of all African Americans own a smartphone. • African Americans use more than double the amount of mobile phone voice minutes compared to Whites – 1,298 minutes a month vs. 606. • The percentage of African Americans attending college or earning a degree has increased to 44 percent for men and 53 percent for women.

Cain from Page 1 competition in the straw poll event, and was one of three GOP candidates – along with Bachmann and former New Mexico Gov. Gary Johnson, who was not on the ballot – who didn’t either present a case to the GOP delegates or send a surrogate to do so for him. Perry, on the other hand, did contest the event, with surrogates including Florida House Speaker Dean Cannon taking to the stage to defend him. And Perry had been pummeled in the press and by conservative pundits for his performance in the Sept. 23 presidential debate and a remark suggesting those who opposed one of his more moderate policies on immigration were heartless. Even some of Perry’s supporters at the straw poll said those debate snags might have hurt his showing. “I think he’s going to have to go back and talk a little more about the im-

migration issue,” said Marion County GOP Chairman Roy Abshier, a Perry backer. Matt McCary, an Orange Park resident, said Cain had won his support during the straw poll and the primary itself with his showing this weekend. “The first time I heard Herman Cain speak, that did it for me,” he said. Cain’s final, fiery speech, shortly before delegates headed to vote, clearly electrified the crowd. He drew repeated standing ovations by drawing on the Declaration of Independence – at one point telling delegates, “We’ve got some altering and abolishing to do” – and Ronald Reagan’s famously optimistic description of America. “Let’s push that shining city on a hill back up to the top of the hill,” he said. It’s unclear whether Cain can transfer the energy of the victory to the ballot box in the state’s yet-to-

be-scheduled GOP primary. The former CEO of Godfather’s Pizza and cancer survivor’s only prior run for office was a bid for a U.S. Senate seat in Georgia. He finished a distant second to then-Congressman Johnny Isakson in the Republican primary, though he beat out another incumbent congressman in that race. Bachmann, after all, won the Iowa Straw Poll last month before her lastplace showing Saturday. But party leaders have pushed for weeks the notion that the Florida event often predicts the winner of the nomination. Reagan won the event in 1979, followed by George H.W. Bush in 1987 and Bob Dole in 1995. “As Florida goes, so goes the nation. And as you go, so goes Florida,” Gov. Rick Scott said Saturday, before the results were announced. Cain’s upstart bid could put that theory to the test.

FAMU from Page 1 versity being placed on probation by the Southern Association of Colleges and School’s (SACS) Commission on Colleges for its unsatisfactory report in a state audit, Ammons and his team worked diligently to have this status removed. In a grand gesture of redemption, FAMU’s administration and educators continue to recruit and produce national achievers. A preliminary report from the Office of Institutional Research recorded student enrollment at 13, 284, as of Oct. 2010 – a record-high

mark, especially after experiencing a slight decline in enrollment from 2004 to 2008 according to FAMU’s 2009-2010 fact book. U.S. News and World Report estimates the university freshman retention rate at 82 percent. In August, the fully-accredited College of Law welcomed its largest class of students. FAMU has also remained a Tier I HBCU – ranking No. 10 in the U.S. News and World Report 2012 HBCU standings, and the No. 1 public HBCU in its category.

Queen of Orange and Green Ciera Hall, a fourth year graphic design student, said the spirit of the university is “alive and well.” “We’re just in the stage of re-energizing the old rattler spirit,” Hall said. She said that keeping tradition alive and, “having pride while doing it all,” has been a key element for the university’s progression under Ammons’ direction. Terrika Mitchell can be contacted at tmitchell@ capitaloutlook.com.

beyond those that coincide with Black History Month,” said Cloves Campbell, NNPA chairman.

Reunion from Page 1 special guests. Alumni will also have an opportunity to hear about key developments and new programs at FSU from Tom Jennings, Ph.D., vice president for university advancement and Vice President Liz Maryanski, who heads university relations. Moreover, the reunion will recognize distinguished alumni, including Leon County Judge Nina Ashenafi-Richardson and J. Marshall Shepherd, Ph.D.. Ashenafi-Richardson received her undergraduate degree and juris doctorate from FSU. Married to former State Representative Curtis Richardson, also an FSU alumnus, AshenafiRichardson has served as legal counsel for the Florida Education Association, was the first African-American president of the Tallahassee Bar Association, was the first black attorney to lead Tallahassee Women Lawyers, served on the Legal Aid Foundation board and has an impressive record of community service. Shepherd is the first African American to receive a Ph.D. in meteorology from FSU, a professor in the department of geography and director of the atmospheric sciences program at the University of Georgia. Shepherd has also worked with NASA and provided consultation to the White House, Pentagon and has been interPOW from Page 1 work for black alumni to meet for “academic, social and other alumni-oriented purposes.” “I am so honored and humbled by this wonderful opportunity to serve,” said Jenkins-Pye. “Our association has been involved in an array of efforts that positively impact black student life at FSU. Among many other things, over the years we have been actively involved in the recruitment and retention of black students, faculty and staff. We have also assisted in the promotion and development of activities and programs that support our students.” Jenkins-Pye has a history of service to FSU. In addition to serving the BAA in several offices, she is a life member of the FSU Alumni Association, a member of the Seminole Boosters and a member of the FSU Foundation’s Westcott Legacy Society, where she has given an estate gift in support of the FSU BAA and FSU Alumni Association. “I believe strongly that to whom much is given, much is required,” JenkinsPye said. This is exemplified

Sept. 29 - Oct. 5, 2011 viewed on several network television shows because of his expertise on weather, climate and remote sensing. FSU BAA will also award scholarships to three deserving students. There are numerous other events planned for the reunion. The schedule includes an Old School v. New School Basketball Challenge, at the Lawrence-Gregory Community Center. The FSU BAA and BSU are co-sponsoring this event to engage the community served by the center, and half-time entertainment will be provided by a local youth group. Donations will be accepted to support the FSU Dance Marathon, which is the university’s largest student-operated philanthropy. The money raised will benefit the Children’s Miracle Network at Shands Children’s Hospital and the FSU College of Medicine’s pediatric outreach programs. “The BSU selected this charity because 100 percent of the proceeds directly benefit children of Tal-

lahassee and surrounding areas, including minority children in need of medical services,” said McCoy. Other events include an awards and recognition luncheon, the Seminole Soul Reunion tailgate, FSU football game, the FSU BAA annual meeting – an annual celebration event hosted by Parks and Crump Law Firm – and much more. “As the BAA often states – ‘only one thing is greater than the power of an individual striving to make a difference and that is many individuals working together toward a common goal,’ ” said Alexander. “That is certainly true of those who have come together to make this reunion a successful one, and we are excited by the alumni response we have already received.” For detailed information or to download a registration form, go to alumni. fsu.edu. Click “Get Involved,” then Black Alumni. Contact Shay Alexander at (850) 590-7732 or shayalexander@hotmail.com.

Photo By CHARLIE A. JACKSON

FSU BAA members at 2010 Homecoming registration. through her life’s work and volunteer efforts. She is a trustee and on several other boards at Bethel African Methodist Episcopal Church; a life member of the Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Inc. and NAACP; sits on the advisory councils of several Leon County schools and works avidly with local and national organizations supporting social workers. She has numerous awards recognizing her service. When Jenkins-Pye is not volunteering her time, she is a case manager with the Tallahassee Police Department’s Serious Habitual Offender Comprehensive Action Program – counseling at-risk juveniles who have had encounters with law enforcement. “Connie epitomizes the spirit of a true public servant and she is wellknown and well-respected at FSU and throughout our community,” said Terri “Shay” Alexander, FSU BAA’s Reunion chair. “The National Black Alumni Association is in good hands with her. With Connie’s energy, vision and can-do spirit, I know that the best is yet to come.” Jenkins-Pye’s first ma-

jor assignment is to work with Alexander and her committee on this year’s reunion efforts. The reunion, themed “Black Alumni Reunion: Seminole State of Mind,” will be held in Tallahassee on Oct. 27-30, during the weekend that the FSU football team hosts the North Carolina State Wolfpack. “This reunion is wellplanned and offers many activities for current and returning Seminoles,” said Jenkins-Pye. “Beyond providing an excellent venue to reunite, network and increase our membership, this event will also give us an opportunity to recognize some distinguished alumni, get university updates from FSU officials and support some current students with needed scholarship funds. We are encouraging all FSU black alumni to attend.” When not working on community and volunteer efforts, Jenkins-Pye and her husband, Benjamin, enjoy traveling and ballroom dancing. “Both are great outlets for my energy and passion for learning new things,” said Jenkins-Pye.

Local/National

Sept. 29 - Oct. 5, 2011

www.capitaloutlook.com

FAMU’s young alumni provide scholarships through annual luncheon Special to the Outlook Each year, Florida A&M University (FAMU) alumni return to “The Hill” to reunite with Rattlers from across the nation for the annual Homecoming celebration. For one group, it’s also an opportunity for former students to do their part in ensuring FAMU continues to change lives and create memories for generations to come. The Young Alumni Giving Campaign was created in 2006, and includes the annual Young Alumni

Giving Luncheon. This year’s event, The Seventh Annual Young Alumni Giving Luncheon: Giving Back to the Future, is scheduled for Oct. 7 at 12:45 p.m. at The Governor’s Club in Tallahassee. “The Young Alumni Giving Luncheon provides a venue for young alumni to fellowship, reflect on their time on ‘The Hill,’ and most importantly, give back to students of FAMU,” said Event Chair Andre T. Hammel, FAMU’s 20022003 Student Government Association president. “Supporting events such

as YAG strengthens the bond between alumni and the university, while creating scholarships for current and future Rattlers. This initiative is the ultimate win-win.” This year’s Young Alumni Giving Luncheon will feature speakers: • Marvin Green, FAMU director of Student Activities; • Tiffany Greene, sports reporter with Bright House Sports Network in Orlando; • Derric Heck, architect and founder of I.Design, a

design, programming and project management consulting firm; and • Arian Reed, publicist (Stomp the Yard) and publisher of Fearless Magazine. Past speakers for the event have included FAMU President James H. Ammons, NFL Attorney Joe Briggs, Film Producer Will Packer; and Janelle Carter, former senior advisor and speechwriter for then-Secretary of State Condoleezza Rice. Tickets are $50 and may be purchased at the

door or online at https:// secure.qgiv.com/for/famu/ event/3861/. Donations are also being accepted. Proceeds from the event will go towards two scholarships: A summer tuition scholarship (six credit hours) for a current FAMU freshman who demonstrates financial need; the second for an exam prep course (LSAT, GMAT, MCAT or GRE) for a graduating FAMU senior.

Marvin Green will be the keynote speaker for the luncheon.

Helping others is something each of us can do Tallahassee Regional By Lorraine CortesVazquez Special to the Outlook

For many of us, part of the journey of living life to its fullest is the desire to leave a legacy - to make certain we have marked our passage through life by making the world a better place. AARP’s founder Dr. Ethel Percy Andrus, began with this mission in mind. She summed it up as “To serve, not to be served” – words that guide our work more than 50 years later. Helping others and being of service, especially to those who have had fewer opportunities or whose circumstances place them in need, is something each of us can do. You don’t have to be rich, or be a celebrity and you don’t need to be a hero. Each of us has something to contribute. Each of us can ease the way for someone else.

Lorraine Cortes-Vazquez AARP has been dedicated to serving others for more than 50 years. But times change. We knew that if AARP were to continue being a powerful force for social change, we needed to redefine volunteerism and to create new volunteer opportunities. Today, time-challenged individuals need volunteer opportunities that are flexible and adaptable to fit within their active lifestyle. Given our increasingly diverse nation, AARP also sought to expand our engagement with multicultural volunteers and communities. It is an important step, since Dr.

Andrus also said, “What we do, we do for all.” She wanted to insure no one was left behind. Today, AARP continues to fulfill her mission. According to an AARP survey of Americans ages 44 to 79, about four in 10 people expect to spend more time volunteering when they retire, and about four in 10 retirees actually volunteer more. Among the most likely to say they want to increase their volunteer service are African Americans and Hispanics. Yet, many said they hadn’t volunteered, simply because no one had asked them to give of their time to help. If asked, they said, they would volunteer. AARP is asking! Join us. We have flexible, adaptable opportunities to suit every schedule and capacity. And we are eagerly seeking volunteers to connect with diverse communities to reach individuals with needs we can help ad-

dress. Join us. We need you, and your neighbors and communities need you, to volunteer for AARP Foundation’s TaxAide Program, the nation’s largest free, volunteer-ran tax preparation and assistance service available to low and moderate-income taxpayers. Please visit aarp. org/tavolunteer8 for more information. We need you to help alleviate hunger among Americans age 50+, which has spiked nearly 80 percent since 2001, hitting the middle class, Hispanics and African Americans hardest. Through Drive to End Hunger, AARP Foundation has donated more than three million meals through local hunger relief organizations. Please visit drivetoendhunger.org to find out how you can help.

Airport hosts Airport Funfest & BBQ Challenge Special to the Outlook On Oct. 1, the Tallahassee Regional Airport will proudly host the Airport Funfest and BBQ Challenge from 10 a.m. to 7 p.m. in the General Aviation Area just west of the airport. The event features a Florida sanctioned BBQ competition. In addition, there will be kids’ activities, live music, arts and crafts, aircraft and car displays, food and

beverage concessions and family fun! The Experimental Aircraft Association, Chapter 445, will be providing free introductory flights to students between the ages of 8 and 17 years. Attendees (18 years or older) will also have the opportunity to enter into a drawing to win some fabulous prizes by donating $1 to the United Way! This free event is open to the public.

We’ve done the math for you. We’ve made sure shopping at Publix can be as economical as it is pleasant. We put hundreds of items on sale every week. Our easy-to-spot shelf signs point out the deals and your register receipt will tally up your savings for you. Go to publix.com /save right now to make plans to save this week.

to save here.

Opinion

www.capitaloutlook.com

Capital Outlook

Published by LIVE Communications, Inc. 1363 East Tennessee St. Tallahassee, FL 32308 Capital Outlook Bulk Rate, Permit No. 562 Postage Paid at Tallahassee, Florida Send address changes to Capital Outlook 1363 East Tennessee St. Founded in 1975 by Stephen K. Beasley

Publisher/President

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

Associate Editor

Lessons of Jacksonville mayor’s race could aid President Obama By Craig Kirby

Special to the NNPA from America’s Wire

President Barack Obama has seen better days. But it would be a mistake to conclude that he can’t win reelection, despite his dismal poll numbers. At the moment, the president is quickly discovering that for every foreign and domestic policy issue, there can be a political consequence. In the Middle East, he seeks to craft a policy fair to both sides, but that leads to attacks at home that he has abandoned Israel. He tries to act responsibly and reduce the federal budget deficit, but that looks like “selling out” to many who are in his Democratic base and still reeling from the recession. Obama’s core political problem, however, results from failure to establish himself as a strong leader, one willing to fight aggressively for what’s best for the country rather than taking his scholarly, deliberate approach. What Americans want is not necessarily a president who is always right but someone who stands and fights for them. They want a gut feeling that the president is on their side, that he understands struggles they face to keep or find jobs, and not to lose their homes facing foreclosure. This president’s decline certainly seems based much more on how people “feel” about their leader than his specific policies. He needs to get out of the White House to Ohio, Pennsylvania,

NNPA Columnist

Education Editor

Youth Editor Delaitre J. Hollinger

Office Manager

Taralisha M. Sanders

Distribution/Graphic Design

Advertising (850) 877-0105

advertising@capitaloutlook.com

Editorial and Advertising Office 1363 East Tennessee St. Tallahassee, FL 32308 Phone: (850) 877-0105 Fax: (850) 877-5110 Email: info@capitaloutlook.com Website: www.capitaloutlook.com Annual subscription rate: $40 Published weekly on Thursday Advertising and Information Deadline: 5 p.m. the preceding Thursday Office Hours 8:30 a.m. - 5:30 p.m.

Michigan, West Virginia and New Mexico. He needs to prove that he is not aloof and understands challenges that millions of Americans, especially those in the heartland, face every day. And, when he’s on the grand stage in Washington, he must be the leader that Americans thought they were electing. The president can’t make this comeback by himself. He needs a team that understands the pulse of the country. How could his advisers possibly think that unveiling a deficit-cutting plan that results in headlines about tax increases would be a wise political move? Instead, how about a headline saying that the president won’t allow working families to lose their homes to foreclosures and that he vows to continue the federal role in helping Americans purchase homes? That would be leadership and smart politics. Republicans shouldn’t start victory celebrations just yet. Election results in Jacksonville, Fla., this spring may have been overlooked in Washington but may be a good barometer for the national electorate. Florida’s largest city is in a conservative region that traditionally tilts heavily toward the GOP. Yet an African American, Alvin Brown became the city’s first black mayor by defeating a Tea Party candidate last May. Brown was the first Democrat in 20 years to sit in the Jacksonville mayor’s office. One can only conclude that extremist positions promoted by the tea party were too outrageous for even Jacksonville’s conserva-

tive electorate. The late Lee Atwater, architect of Republican victories in the 1980s, used to court the South assiduously as a GOP electoral base. But at the same time, he would caution privately that a backlash would occur if this powerful base were perceived as driving national policy for the Republican Party, which needed themes that could also win voters in other parts of the country. Brown’s victory certainly raises questions of whether the GOP’s presidential candidates can run viable general election campaigns after aggressively courting the tea party during the party’s nomination process. The scenario seems to mirror presidential politics in the 1980s when Vice President Walter F. Mondale and Massachusetts Gov. Michael S. Dukakis were dismal general election candidates after wooing liberals to win the Democratic presidential nominations in 1984 and 1988, respectively. In his mayoral campaign, Brown also won by displaying savvy political skills. These are traits that he surely learned as a close ally of Ronald H. Brown (no relation), the former secretary of commerce and Democratic National Committee chairman who led the party’s rebirth that resulted in Bill Clinton’s presidential victory in 1992. Alvin Brown was seen as more of a centrist than a liberal. He opposed tax increases and gained key financial support from leading Republican fundraisers. He built a broad coalition in Jacksonville, much as Ron Brown had done two decades ago for the Democratic Party.

Most important, Alvin Brown was able to gain support from whites while aggressively energizing a base of African Americans. In fact, one of the campaign’s strategies was to significantly increase the black turnout, which it accomplished. Brown also gave voters reasons to like him. He came across as energetic, aggressive and confident yet humble, hardworking and the type of person with values who was at ease joining anyone for a beer, a cup of coffee or a glass of wine. As unusual as it may sound, perhaps the president of the United States could learn lessons about politics and personality from the new mayor of Jacksonville. Craig Kirby is a Washingtonbased political consultant, who managed Alvin Brown’s mayoral campaign and was its chief strategist. America’s Wire is an independent, non-profit news service run by the Maynard Institute for Journalism Education. For more information, visit americaswire. org or contact Michael K. Frisby at mike@frisbyassociates.com.

Mayor Alvin Brown

Debilitating poverty is corrosive By Julianne Malveaux

Dr. Ronald W. Holmes

Sept. 29 - Oct. 5, 2011

The fall of the Roman Empire is best captured in the phrase that “Nero fiddled while Rome burned.” Set on pursuing his own pleasures and indulgences, Nero could not see the walls crumbling around him. Similarly, our leaders seem oblivious to the walls crashing in on us, bickering about the way that relief on our employment situation should be structured, while poverty rates are soaring. The data that came out last Sept. 13 included no surprises, but in some ways, it was a stunning indictment of the economic gridlock that has plagued us for the past year. While Congress has been yammering on about debt ceilings, more and more Americans are without work; more and more have experienced poverty. The poverty rate rose from 14.3 percent to 15.1 percent between 2009 and 2010. That means that the number of poor Americans grew by 2.6 million people, from 43.6 million to 46.2 million. For the past three years the poverty rate has continued to rise, and income has continued to

decline. In the past year, the average income has dropped by 2.3 percent to $49,445. Of course, the African-American level of income saw a steeper decline, from $33,122 to $32,068, or by 3.2 percent. While median black income dropped by more than a thousand dollars a year, white income, from a higher perch, saw a lesser decline of about $900, or from $52,717 to $51,846, about 1.7 percent. With much less, African Americans are hit much harder. Thus, while the overall poverty rate is 15.1 percent, it is 27.4 percent for African Americans, 26.6 percent for Hispanics, and 9.9 percent for whites. More than 40 percent of African-American children live in poverty. There are further indications of increased poverty and dire news for years to come. There are 2 million more “doubled up” households, meaning that more than one family is living in the same home. Yes, we used to do this “back in the day,” but today entire families are moving in together because of economic exigencies. Poverty rates for youngsters, those under 18, have risen from 20.7 to 22 percent. Nearly a third of those families headed by women are in poverty, and women are still earning 77 percent of what men earn. Are

civil rights laws being enforced in this age of so-called fiscal prudence, or would the likes of Michelle Bachman throw the civil rights agencies under the bus, as she promises to do with the Department of Education if she is elected president? As poverty rises, the number of Americans without health insurance is also on the rise. 49.9 million people, one in six Americans, have no health insurance. For African Americans, it’s one in five; for Hispanics, it’s nearly one in three. Those who sit at the margins of this economy languish there without the ability to deal with preventive health care, and unable to afford medical treatment in times of illness. This erodes our national productivity and well being. Why can’t health care be a simple human right in our nation? The Census report “Income, Poverty and Health Insurance Coverage in the United States: 2010” details the ways that poverty has increased in just one year. In some countries, this would be a cause for alarm. In the United States, it seems to be business as usual. While poverty strikes our communities harder than it does others, the fact is that we have more people in poverty than we have had since we began to measure poverty in 1959, and

we’ve only seen poverty at this level twice since 1965. Then, we declared a war on poverty. Now, we seem content to accept it. Those who are poor are victims of a corroded economy. While many would like to blame the 46.2 million Americans who are experiencing poverty, the real culprit is our nation’s economic failure. We are economically unhealthy, we are not generating jobs, compelling investment or focusing on our future. Our children have fewer prospects that many of us had because even those who follow the rules find the payoff lower and the risks higher. This does not mean that we should give up. It means that we should organize and galvanize ourselves to take our economy back. Dozens of congressional representatives have ignored the poverty data, but they wouldn’t be able to ignore it if we grabbed their attention. More than 40 years ago, Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. planned a Poor People’s Campaign. Who will plan it now? Julianne Malveaux is president of Bennett College for Women in Greensboro, N.C.

For prison profiteers, it’s full-speed ahead By Judge Greg Mathis During America’s “dark years,” when segregation was the law of the land, African Americans were often terrorized by white racists, who simply could not stand the site of them. These individuals could not turn to the justice system for help: the local sheriff was often among the group of men they feared would beat or lynch them. Law enforcement was one of many tools that were used to oppress blacks; unfortunately, things are not much different in modern times. Instead of, while in prison, having access to the

services needed to turn their lives around, black men and women face economic exploitation. The United States imprisons more people than any other developed nation – one person for every 100. When you drill down and look at the numbers more closely, you’ll see that 40 percent of those incarcerated in America’s jails and prisons are black and that one in nine black men between the ages of 20 and 34 is locked down. A lot of policies led to these race-based discrepancies, biased drug laws and mandatory jail sentences for drug users among them. While it’s tragic that so many of our brothers and sisters end up in prison, often for low-level, non-violent drug crimes, the real

tragedy is the billions of dollars private companies are making while our people rot in jail. There are over 200 privately operated prisons in this country – meaning they are not government managed – and, collectively, are raking in so much money that Wall Street considers them safe “bets.” And why wouldn’t they? The justice system has no desire to rehabilitate offenders or, most importantly, work to keep troubled individuals out of the system in the first place. No, they’d rather create a cycle of recidivism that ensures the profits keep rolling in. We can’t, however, blame government for everything. Even though many of the facts seem to show that the justice system seems to works against African

Americans, we have to be smarter and do better. If we know that criminal activity and drug use will lead us to prison, then we have to walk a straighter path. We can begin to fight back by using the education system. Even if that system isn’t in the best of shape, we can, as many have done, use what it does offer and improve our lot in life. Of course, we should – and will – continue to fight against injustices and exploitation. But we must make sure we don’t fall into the trap that has been set for us. To contact Judge Greg Mathis, visit askjudgemathis. com.

Sept. 29 - Oct. 5, 2011

Education

www.capitaloutlook.com

Is there a fair evaluation system for grading teachers? Ronald W. Holmes, Ph.D.

Education Editor/Vice President

If something “looks like a duck, swims like a duck and sounds like a duck, then it probably is a duck.” The duck test suggests that an individual can recognize an unknown subject by observing the subject’s known characteristics. While school districts are faced with the challenge of effectively observing teachers in the classrooms and linking their assessments to student performance, the questions to be asked are: Is there a fair evaluation system for grading teachers? What are the core principles of an evaluation system as determined by a state education agency? What are the debates surrounding the issue of an evaluation system tied to student performance? Collectively, A Nation at Risk Report of 1983, the Educate America Act of 1994 and the No Child Left Behind Act of 2001 all have played a role in shaping the expectations for fair evaluation systems and school accountability. According

to research, school districts with successful evaluation systems implement based on what was planned, ensure that all parties of the district understand the instrument and consistently use the results from the instrument. In addition, these school districts require that the evaluation systems are interwoven with the district’s mission, focus on student achievement and ensure that professional development and teacher evaluation are connected and continuous. New Jersey Gov. Chris Christie recently announced they are piloting an evaluation system to grade teachers in 11 school districts. These school districts were selected among 30 districts in New Jersey that applied for the $1.1 million in grants to collaboratively implement the pilot system in their schools for the 2011-2012 school year. Their role will be to establish a framework that can be used to implement a new evaluation system for all school districts in New Jersey for the 2012-2013 school year. Acting Commissioner of Education

Ronald W. Holmes, Ph.D. for New Jersey Chris Cerf noted that the “pilot districts will have flexibility in implementing a framework that best fit their needs and that adhere to several core principles.” According to Cerf, the core principles require “teachers to be evaluated on the basis of multiple measures that include both learning outcomes and ef effective practice with about 50 percent associated with each” category and to receive training that provides a direct link between the results of the evaluation and professional development opportunities for continuous improvement. Those teachers who teach non-tested subjects and grades will be evaluated on the basis of student work

in the classroom. Teachers who work with the school’s highest need students will be excluded from being penalized and evaluated on the basis of student progress instead of absolute performance. Finally, the evaluation ratings of inef ineffective, partially effective, effective or highly effective would replace the satisfactory and unsatisfactory type ratings. Cerf reported that these principles “will serve as a means to significantly improve current practice while evaluating teachers on how well they teach and how much their students improve” in the educational environment. While Massachusetts’ Department of Elementary and Secondary Education has also implemented an evaluation system this school year to include standardized test scores as a part of the teacher evaluation, a lawsuit has been filed against New York State’s Board of Regents (NYSBR). The lawsuit is regarding the degree of weight assigned to the standardized test for the teacher evaluation. For example, the NYSBR seeks to have

test scores to count for 40 percent of the teacher evaluation. The plaintiff in the lawsuit seeks to have 20 percent of the test scores tied to the teacher evaluation combined with another 20 percent tied to multiple measures from student growth in the educational setting. As part of the Race to the Top grant program, U.S. states are encouraged to build data systems that measure student growth and success, inform teachers and principals how to improve instruction and reward teachers and principals for positive outcomes. However, some educators believe that it is impossible to have an evaluation or merit pay system because it is difficult to create a fair and accurate system for evaluating and rewarding performance. Others believe that in order for an evaluation or merit pay system to be effective, you should use multiple data sources to assess teacher effectiveness. In other words, the system should not just measure the productivity of teachers in the class-

room, but it should also measure other elements of the teacher’s workplace such as student attendance and discipline, teacher attendance and evaluation, parental involvement, professional development and school safety; and then assess how all of these elements have an impact on student achievement such as students’ readiness for college and careers, graduation rate, and reading and mathematics proficiency on standardized tests. If the goals are met as established at the beginning of the year, the teachers should receive a favorable evaluation and reward for their performance. Consequently, school districts can say, humorously, if it looks like a good teacher evaluation then it probably is a good teacher evaluation. Dr. Ronald W. Holmes is the National Superintendent of Education for the National Save the Family Now Movement, Inc. He is a former teacher, school administrator, and district superintendent and can be reached at rwholmes@capitaloutlook.com.

Senate examines Texas higher education reforms North Carolina A&T names By Lilly Rockwell

The News Service of Florida Special to the Outlook

Lawmakers in the Senate said Sept. 20 they are reluctant to fully embrace changes to higher education like those pushed in Texas and now being championed by Gov. Rick Scott. Sen. Steve Oelrich, R-Cross Creek, said he is “willing to consider and look at this Texas plan.” But he said he was “not completely sold on it because the university presidents don’t particularly like it.” Oelrich, the chair of the Senate higher education committee, and whose district includes the area around the University of Florida in Gainesville, said he will meet with Scott on Sept. 21 and one item on the agenda is discussing the higher education reforms first pushed by Gov. Rick Perry in Texas. The changes would promote tying state funding to the performance of universities, such as graduation rates, and include a type of merit pay for professors that would give students more power in determining professor bonus pay and tenure. The idea is that universities should function more like private businesses and be scrutinized in terms of how productive the faculty is and how effi-

ciently the university operates. Scott has made higher education changes a key priority, and has spent a significant amount of energy reaching out to university and college presidents and speaking to his appointments to college and university governing boards about the Texas plan. At a Senate higher education committee meeting on Sept. 20, the first since the legislative session ended in May, lawmakers began studying the issue by hearing an update on how the state university system compares to similar systems in other states. For instance, Florida has the fourth highest rate of graduation within six years, at 61.4 percent. Graduation rates are seized on as a way of measuring the success of a university because it can represent how well a school ef efficiently educates students. The longer a student takes to graduate, the more expensive that student is. But at least one lawmaker, Sen. Joe Negron, R-Stuart, said the responsibility for graduating falls on the students. “We should also focus on what is the student doing?” Negron said. “No one should take six years to graduate college, unless there is a financial or medical emergency.”

Oelrich said graduation rates need to be “tightened up.” Some universities have too few students graduate in six years he said. “It is not right and they are taking taxpayer dollars,” he said. While more than 60 percent of Florida university students finish within six years on average, the lowest is Florida A&M University, where fewer than half of students get their degree within that time frame. Oelrich said the complex reforms contained in the Texas plan will take time to study. “It will probably not happen this year, but certainly that would probably be on the table for next year,” he said. “To have it come up here in a couple of months, literally, three months is pretty aggressive.” Another lawmaker said the topic should be explored albeit cautiously. “I think it’s worth exploring,” said Sen. Evelyn Lynn, R-Ormond Beach, and the chair of the Senate’s higher education budget committee, about professor merit pay. “Whether that is going to work or not, I’m not sure.” Lynn said lawmakers have to tread carefully when it comes to tinkering with universities. “We attract some of the best and finest professors from all

over the world,” Lynn said. “We don’t want to lose that edge.” State University System Chancellor Frank Brogan said Sept. 20 after the meeting that some university presidents are open to discussing changes in how they are funded. “Once you get past the initial reaction, which is ‘Change is scary,’ …I really think there is a broad consensus that now is a good time to begin to have these conversations.” Universities have long been funded based predominantly on enrollment. Larger universities get more money from the state than smaller universities. That tends to encourage universities to constantly try to get bigger. “What we have now basically says ‘If you grow, we will give you more money,’ ” Brogan said. He said now is a good time, because of a dramatic drop in funding from the state, to consider accountability-based funding. “We all agree the old funding model isn’t even being used right now,” he said. The House’s education committee met Sept. 21. Its chair, Rep. Bill Proctor, R-St. Augustine, has said he has some reservations about the Texas plan, including how it calls students “customers.”

Lester associate vice chancellor Special to the Outlook Dr. Wanda Fleming Lester has been named associate vice chancellor (AVC) for academic affairs at North Carolina A&T State University. Lester has more than 30 years of professional accomplishments in corporate, governmental and academic sectors. Lester previously served in the interim capacity of AVC for academic affairs. Prior to that, she served as associate dean of the School of Business and Economics. In that role, she provided major leadership for the School’s Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business accreditation and the development of the Financial Trading Room and Closing Bell Speaker Series. She was also an assistant professor in the school. Lester has also taught at Norfolk State University and Florida A&M University (FAMU). A certified public accountant, Lester has worked at the Ohio College of Podiatric Medicine, Digital Equipment Corporation, City of Clearwater, Harper, Van Scoik & Co., American Hospital Supply and KPMG (formerly Peat, Marwick, Mitchell

Wanda Fleming Lester and Co.). She is affiliated with numerous professional organizations including North Carolina Council of Economic Education, Academy of Management and Southern Management Association. Lester earned a bachelor’s degree in accounting/economics from FAMU and a Ph.D. in strategic management/management information systems from Florida State University.

Where Every Child is S-H-I-N-I-N-G: Successful, Helpful, Imaginative, Neighborly, Intelligent, Noble, and Good Natured! A Ministry of Bethel Missionary Baptist Church Reverend Dr. R. B. Holmes, Jr., Pastor 406 N. Bronough Street · Tallahassee · (850) 222-6605

Scholarship Information www.stepupforstudents.org or Early Learning Coalition 385-0551

Since God’s love extends equally to all people, Bethel Christian Academy welcomes and encourages all His children, regardless of race, color, or nationality, to apply for admission, scholarship, any programs of the school and does not discriminate on the basis of race, color or nationality in the administration of any program of the school.

PreK (Age 3) - Sixth Grade Small Class Sizes Christian Philosophy Nurturing & Safe Environment Committed & Dedicated Teachers Challenging A Beka Curriculum Computer Technology Music, Health & Physical Education

in the way Train up a child d when he e should go: an

epart from it. d t o n l il w e h , is old Proverbs 22:6

Application Information

Go to www.betheltally.org (Under Bethel’s Quicklinks click Bethel’s Schools) or

Call (850) 222-6605

Sept. 29 - Oct. 5, 2011 Religion Women’s Devotional –– “Abundance from Above”

www.capitaloutlook.com

The Capital Outlook continues its weekly women’s devotionals. This week’s devotion is prayerfully presented by Natalie R. Jackson John 10:10

“Get Out the Candles” Natalie R. Jackson First Mission COGIC, Tallahassee, Fla.

Buenos Dias! I hope you are well and looking forward to an awesome day in God. This September we had a storm brewing in Tallahassee and one thought that came to mind was “get out the candles.” Well, what happens when you have the candles with no matches? They’re useless. The potential of the candle lies in the match. Do you know that we are candles waiting to be lit? Our “match” is Jesus.

Have you said, “what is my purpose? Why am I here? What am I supposed to be doing?” There’s your candle. Now invite Jesus in and He will strike that match to get you going. What do you find yourself doing and enjoying most, other than shopping or sports, that gives God glory and helps somebody else? I found that my candle is teaching, and I ask God to guide me in teaching who and what and when.

God’s word says in Ephesians 4: 1; 7-8, “I therefore, the prisoner of the Lord, beseech you that ye walk worthy of the vocation wherewith ye are called; 7But unto every one of us is given grace according to the measure of the gift of Christ. 8Wherefore he saith, When he ascended up on high, he led captivity captive, and gave gifts unto men.” So you have your candle. Ask God to strike the

Borrowed goods

Blessed assurance

By Kerri-Ann HayeDonawa

By Joe Stowell

Special to the Outlook

It’s interesting to watch toddlers at play. Their interaction with each other can sometimes be downright hilarious; but at other times they are genuine, unadulterated, unrefined reflections of our own base human tendencies. Case in point, I have a 1-year-old nephew, and he’s just the most adorable little human being alive, however, right now he’s primarily a taker. He likes to get his hands on whatever he sees in our hands, and so I’ll let him play with my belongings from time to time. What amuses me is how quickly he forgets that what I’ve given him to play with still belongs to me. Hence, most often than not, when I attempt to retrieve the item, I’m met with a fight, a tightly curled little fist refusing to let go. He pulls back and runs in the opposite direction, “No!” his little voice firmly protests, “Mine!” Now this might be cute when a child is 1, maybe 2 years old, but the cuteness quickly fades as the child ages. Imagine having to chase your 8-year-old niece for your hairbrush. Imagine that same child at 10 years old screaming with tears in her eyes, “No! My spoon!” A little outrageous, right? That is because sooner or later children are expected to grow and understand the difference between what belongs to them and what doesn’t. Well, now the same principle applies to our relationship with God and our understanding of provision. We are dependent, which

means that all we have was given to us. We are borrowers from the hand of God. Therefore, our giving must be predicated upon the fact that what we have isn’t really ours. As such, He has the authority to dictate how we use whatever He has placed in our hands. God does not expect His grown, child who is supposed to be mature in the principles of the Kingdom, to run from Him with clenched fists, screaming “No! It’s mine!” In fact, if we keep refusing to let go when He says to, He’ll soon refuse to put anything in our hands. Know that we are not meant to be takers, but instead to be givers. That said, if God is able to trust you with little, He will entrust you with much. Go ahead, open your hands. Scripture Of The Day: “Now may He who supplies seed to the sower, and bread for food, supply and multiply the seed you have sown and increase the fruits of your righteousness” - 2 Corinthians 9:10 (NKJV).

Special to the Outlook

Scripture: 2 Corinthians 5:1-10 “We are confident, yes, well pleased rather to be absent from the body and to be present with the Lord.” - 2 Corinthians 5:8 Bible in a year: Proverbs 13-15; 2 Corinthians 5 As I was talking with a gentleman whose wife had died, he shared with me that a friend said to him, “I’m sorry you lost your wife.” His reply? “Oh, I haven’t lost her; I know exactly where she is!” To some, this may seem like a rather bold or even flippant assertion. With so many after-death theories, one might wonder how we can be really sure where our loved ones go

after death; let alone where we ourselves will end up. Yet, confidence is appropriate for followers of Jesus Christ. We have the assurance from God’s word that when we die we will immediately be with our Lord (2 Cor. 5:8). Thankfully, this is more than just wishful thinking. It is grounded in the historic reality of Jesus, who came and died to cancel our penalty for sin so that we could receive eternal life (Rom. 6:23). He then proved that there was life after death by exiting His grave and ascending into heaven where, as He promised, He is preparing a place for us (John 14:2). So, rejoice! Since the benefits of this reality are out of this world, we can boldly say with Paul that “we are confident, yes, well pleased rather to be absent from the body and to be present with the Lord” (2 Cor. 5:8).

match so that your light, that He has given you, can shine, shine, shine.

Love you much. God loves you best. Good day. God’s way.

Prayer: Lord, when I take my final breath And see You face to face in death, Then shall my heart forever sing The heavenly praises of my King. - Raniville

For the follower of Jesus, death means heaven, happiness and Him.

Reverend Dr. R. B. Holmes , Jr.

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

Community News

Sept. 29 - Oct. 5, 2011

www.capitaloutlook.com

Bethel holds Ministry Fair 2011 Special to the Outlook The Bethel Missionary Baptist Church held its 2011 Ministry Fair on Sept. 10 – its first one in over ten years. With 35 ministries participating and nearly 300 people in attendance throughout the day, the fair was considered a major success. The fair was held in the gymnasium of the Bethel Family Life Center and was the result of a brainstorming session the pastor, the Rev. Dr. R. B. Holmes Jr., had with the Collegiate and Young Adult ministries during a church revival earlier this year. The event was designed to give members of Bethel and the community an opportunity to learn more about how Bethel members glorify God and

serve their fellow man. Ministry leaders and representatives were on hand to explain their ministry’s focus, activities and church and community outreach programs. The fair also presented an opportunity for each ministry to provide information and answer questions in order to help individuals decide which of the many ministries they would like to contribute their time and talent to. From the Prayer ministry informing people that a person can find salvation and calm assurance through prayer to the Health care ministry taking everyone for a ride on their “Glory Train” through skit, festivities were plentiful. They included skits by the Prayer, Health care and Ushers ministries, dance presentations by the Dance and

Mime ministry and songs of praise by both the Mass and Youth choirs. Short presentations were also given by the Homeless, Girl Scouts, Retirement, Young Mother’s Mentoring and Media ministries. The Media ministry, along with Bethel Christian Academy and C. K. Steele-Collins Middle School, gave away five computers to students and their families. Twala Carter ended the day with a soul stirring song of praise. The fair committee was headed by Victor and Letetia Wiley. Working with the Wileys on the were LaTarsha Bradwell, Raquel Coleman, Whitney Wiley, Devora Simmons, Taralisha Sanders and Darnell Jones. Countless other volunteers helped with the fair preparation including Cassandra Poole and Ceseann Carroll.

RonShay Dugans’ legacy continues at the Boys and Girls Club By Ashley Hogans Outlook Staff Writer

Family, friends and employees gathered on Sept. 7 at the Boys and Girls Club of the Big Bend, to dance and perform in remembrance of RonShay Dugans. “Wild Out Wednesdays was her favorite day here at the Boys and Girls Club,” said James West, Dugans’ brother. “They actually named this room after her because this used to be one of her favorite activities here.” Eight-year-old Dugans was killed in a car accident on Sept. 8, 2008, when a drowsy driver of a cement truck crashed into the rear end of the Boys and Girls Club bus.

Thomasville, Georgia Area Buffalo Soldiers Inc. & Jack Hadley Black History Museum Hosting: Lt. Henry O. Flipper “2011” Banquet/Ball When: Oct. 8 Time: 6 p.m. – 12 a.m. Attire: Formal Where: Frederick Douglass Alumni Complex/Museum 214 Alexander St. Thomasville, Georgia 31792 Donations: $25/Single & $40/Couples Contact: Rena Nelson @ 850-590-7397 Calvary Missionary Baptist Church Rev. Kevin L. Johnson, Pastor “On Fire for the Lord” When: Oct. 13 @ 7 p.m. Evangelist Stefanie Williams When: Oct. 14 @ 7 p.m. Minister Laurence McGriff Where: 1915 Dale Street Call: 850-321-6142 Providence Missionary Baptist Rev. Dr. Emory C. Virgil, Senior Pastor “Annual Women’s Day Celebration Program” When: Oct. 16 @ 3 p.m. Speaker: Mrs. Robin Calhoun Musical Guest: Albany State University Where: 1215 Magnolia St. Thomasville, GA. Contact: Patrachia Kelly @ patrachiak@hotmail.com

Dugans’ family partnered with Rep. Alan Williams, D-Tallahassee, to create a law that would prevent drivers from driving drowsy. Last June, former Gov. Charlie Crist passed the “RonShay Dugans Act,” to warn drivers of the severities of driving drowsy. “We are just trying to encourage people to utilize the rest areas, and if they are sleepy, we want them to go to bed and get the proper rest,” said Josie West, Dugans’ adoptive mother and biological aunt. With the RonShay Dugans Act into effect, lawmakers dedicated the first week of September as Drowsy Driving Prevention Week in Florida. The family has hosted various

events such as “Wake Up and Smell the Coffee,” giving away free coffee at an I-10 rest stop. The family hopes the “You Snooze, You Lose-Don’t Drive Drowsy” campaign will draw awareness to this issue. “I see RonShay’s spirit in what we are doing,” said Josie West. “A perfect example is the Boys and Girls Club.” More than 50 people attended the “Wild Out Wednesday” event in honor of Dugans, including former employees who shared memorable moments at the Boys and Girls Club. “A lot of times, especially around her birthday and around the time she passed away, it can get kind of hard,” said Anita Ed-

wards, former employee at the Boys and Girls Club of the Big Bend. “For everyone to come out and celebrate and refocus on the positive and preventive part of this week so that no one else has to suffer a loss like we did is great.” According to the National Highway Traf Traffic Safety Administration ,more than 100,000 crashes, 1,500 deaths and 71,000 injuries occur as a result of driving drowsy. “I am praying and hoping that it will go national so that people can really know that drowsy driving is really serious,” Edwards said. Ashley Hogans can be contacted at ahogans@ capitaloutlook.com

Bundle brilliant TV with pure speed for an even better experience.

+ Prism TV TM

• Over 120 all-digital channels • FREE HD and Whole Home DVR for 3 months

Pure Broadband • All High-Speed Internet, no phone line required • Consistently fast all day, every day

Prism TV + Pure Broadband TM

65.95

= $

a month for 6 months*

2 WAYS to test-drive Prism: IN STORE: ONLINE: seeprismtv.com > 1544-2 Governor’s Square Blvd. > 1410 Market St. > 2020 West Pensacola St., Suite 210

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 1.5 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 six-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. Taxes, Fees, and Surcharges – Taxes, fees, and surcharges apply, including a Carrier Universal Service charge, National Access Fee surcharge, a one-time High-Speed Internet activation fee, state and local fees that vary by area and certain in-state surcharges. Cost recovery fees are not taxes or government-required charges for use. Taxes, fees, and surcharges apply based on standard monthly, not promotional, rates. Call for a listing of applicable taxes, fees, and surcharges. Monthly Rate for All Service Bundles – The monthly rate for all bundled services will apply while customer subscribes to all qualifying services. If one (1) or more services are cancelled, the standard monthly fee will apply to each remaining service. Pure Broadband – Early termination results in customer being responsible for payment of the applicable monthly recurring service fee multiplied by the number of months remaining in the minimum service period, up to $200. 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, one (1) modem gateway, and up to four (4) standard direct video streams to residence. CenturyLink-provided set-top boxes 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 set-top boxes (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 (touchtone) 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. 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. Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows - Part 1: ©2010 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.

www.capitaloutlook.com

Classifieds

Sept. 29 - Oct. 5, 2011

CLASSIFIEDS

Employment

• Visit Human Resources, 315 South Calhoun Street, 5th Floor, Suite #502 An Equal Opportunity Employer

Invitation to Bid LEON COUNTY BOARD OF COUNTY COMMISSIONERS JOB OPENINGS THE FOLLOWING POSITION HAS A CLOSING DATE OF: September 30, 2011 Housing Services Coordinator THE FOLLOWING POSITIONS HAVE A CLOSING DATE OF: October 7, 2011

COOK BROTHERS, INC. Is bidding the following project and would appreciate a bid from your firm. LAKE JACKSON BRANCH LIBRARY, COMMUNITY CENTER AND HUNTINGTON OAKS RENOVATIONS DESCRIPTION: PHASE 1A +/- 12,000 GSF RENOVATION, PAHSE 1B +/-3,000 GSF RENOVATION, PHASE 2 FRONT FAÇADE RENOVATION

Information Professional (Full-time position @ N.E. Branch)

BID DATE: 10-12-2011 BID TME: 2:00 ET

Facilities Support Technician II

PLEASE SEND BIDS NO LATER THAN 1 HOUR PRIOR BID TIME

THE FOLLOWING POSITIONS ARE “Open Until Filled” Application Development Analyst GIS Database Analyst Application Development Analyst (Applications & Database) THE FOLLOWING POSITIONS ARE “OPEN CONTINUOUSLY” Paramedic (PRN) EMT (PRN) For additional information 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)

FAX BIDS TO: 850-5141007 or MAIL BIDS TO: 1255 COMMERCE BLVD., MIDWAY, FL 32343 It is the bidder’s responsibility to confirm all changes, supplements or addenda and that any bid was received by Cook Brothers, Inc. prior to bid closing. CBI is not be responsible for bids received late, for any reason and DOES NOT encourage emailed bids. SCOPES OF WORK INCLUDED: SITEWORK, CONCRETE, MASONRY, STRUCTURAL STEEL, LIGHT GAUGE STEEL, ROUGH CARPENTRY, FINISH CARPENTRY, MILLWORK, INSULATION, WATER REPEL-

LANTS, METAL ROOFING, HOLLOW METAL DOORS, GLASS AND GLAZING, HARDWARE, DRYWALL, ACOUSTICAL CIELINGS, CERAMIC TILE, FLOORING, PAINT, TOILET PARTITIONS, SIGNAGE, BLINDS, FIRE PROTECTION, MECHANICAL, ELECTRICAL, PLUMBING, MODIFIED BITUMINOUS ROOFING, STUCCO, PROJECTION SCREENS, DEMOLITION Plans are available for purchase at THE BLUEPRINT SHOP in Tallahassee, FL. (850-224-2699) and for no cost review in our office or online at www.theblueprintshop.com (click on PLANWELL at the top left of the page and then PUBLIC PLANROOM at the bottom left. Look for file # 99-0040). COOK BROTHERS INC. DOES NOT HAVE PLANS TO DISTRIBUTE – IN ANY FORMAT. If you have any questions or problems obtaining or reviewing plans and specs, please contact PETE MABRY at phm@cookbrothersinc.com. or by phone at (850) 514-1006. Cook Brothers, Inc. Is Actively Attempting To Obtain MBE/WBE Participation. There will be a pre-bid meeting on Thurs. 09/29/2011 at 2:00 PM. Eastern time in the Cook Brothers Inc. office at 1255 Commerce Blvd. Midway, FL. ALL PARTICIPANTS ARE INVITED AND W/ MBE PROSPECTIVE BIDDERS ENCOURAGED TO ATTEND. IF YOU HAVE NOT ALREADY DONE SO, PLEASE SUBMIT YOUR MBE CERTIFICATION AT THAT MEETING. COOK BROTHERS, INC. Pete Mabry, Project Manager

ADMISSION

Tallahassee Regional aiRpoRT’s

benefitting the United Way of the big bend.

FEATURING Florida Sanctioned BBQ Competition Live Music Kids’ Activities Arts and Crafts Aircraft and Automobile Displays Food and Beverage Concessions Gift Raffles

Attendees 18 years plus who donate $1 to the United Way may win a fabulous grand prize! PRoCeeDS BeneFit the UniteD WAy oF the BiG BenD

THANKS TO

FLIGHTLINE GROUP, INC. PLATINUM LEVEL SPONSOR