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THURSDA Y, JUNE 23 - WEDNESDA Y, JUNE 29 THURSDAY WEDNESDAY 29,, 2016

Morticians from around the state converge on Broward County to hold ‘Stop the Violence’ rally Such widespread acts of violence among youth within inner-city communities across Florida has garnered the attention of one notable organization and resulted in a concerted effort to draw attention to a problem which has reached epidemic proportions in some communities.

Tommy Hayes III, of Hayes Bros. Funeral Homes in Altamonte Springs and Eustis, Fla., is the current president of the Florida Morticians Association (FMA). He indicated that this effort was part of a national campaign instituted in major cities across America.

“We instituted last year in our convention in Orlando. We Morticians from around the state and beyond, converged upon the streets of Fort brought to the funeral directors’ attention the violence which is Lauderdale with a silent motorcade of hearses procession. continuing to plague our nation.

By Charles Moseley irrespective of race, age, gender, our nation’s capital Washing- And we’ve also included on a national level the Stop the or socioeconomic status, ton, D.C. Regardless of where Violence rallies in Dallas, Tex., Historically America has violence has become all too you live, work, or play, no one is St. Louis, Mo., Richmond, Vir., had more than its share of common in society. immune from a potential act of Houston, Tex. Everywhere we violence, but when it comes to Although the lion’s share of violence. have our national conventions random acts of mass murder, media attention focuses on the Violence in and across it’s always been a part of the modern day America is rapidly horrendous mass killings as America’s inner cities often does convention.”

Ironically, FMA, the orbecoming under siege by such witnessed in areas completely not receive the notoriety as the acts from coast to coast. Sadly, diverse from one another from aforementioned mass killings ganization comprised of those mass killings have become a Orlando, Fla. to Charleston, S.C. which are splashed across the whose very business deals with part of our social fabric. And and from Newtown, Conn. to airways yet are no less insidious. servicing the deceased, recently

joined forces to hold a “Stop the Violence” rally in Broward County to kick off its 92nd Annual State Convention. Avis Gaines Boyd, who coordinated the event as chairperson, set the tone for the event during her welcoming remarks, decreeing, “We shall, we can, and we will stop the violence.”

Morticians from around the state, including Key West, Miami, Fort Myers, Altamonte Springs, and beyond, converged upon the streets of Fort Lauderdale on June 19, 2016 with a silent motorcade of hearses procession. The motorcade began at the James C. Boyd Funeral Home along Sistrunk Boulevard, winding through the streets of Fort Lauderdale before reaching its final destination at the First Baptist Church Piney Grove in Lauderdale Lakes, Fla. Terry Wright of Wright & Young Funeral Home in Miami

recapped an earlier “Stop the Violence” rally which began in Miami earlier in the day.

“This was a combined effort; we started a rally in Miami at 10 o’clock this morning. We went from church to church 10 different churches throughout the City of Miami - expressing, 'Don’t take my life, let me live.' Put the guns down. So we’re right here ready to start a rally today, memorializing those who have lost their lives to gun violence to make a stand.”

This marked the second anniversary of the event which drew support from members of the faith based community, law enforcement officials, politicians, civic organizations, and the community at-large, all of whom were present at the “Stop the Violence” rally held at the church.

(Cont'd on Page 9)

Discover The Unexpected: NNPA journalism scholars are breaking news

After serving nine years in prison for a quadruple murder he didn’t commit, Davontae Sanford is finally free anything to defend him, said David Moran, Sanford’s lawyer and director of Michigan Innocence Clinic.

Crane said that after “bullying and coercion” during the police interrogation, Sanford “just made something up” in order to go home.

According to Crane, police falsified evidence linking Sanford to the crime, and suggested that admitting involvement in the crime meant

Devontae Sanford free.

By Tatyana Hopkins (NNPA/DTU Fellow) The lawyers of wrongfully canvassed the neighborhood convicted Davontae Sanford about midnight, just a few said it was clear from the hours after the shooting in beginning that he was September 2007. They said law innocent and his confession enforcement officials convinced Sanford to go to the station to was false.

Megan Crane, Sanford’s tell them about information he lawyer, said that “police prac- may have had about the crime. tices that are widely inappro- The officers received permission priate for vulnerable juvenile from his grandmother to take him to police headquarters for suspects and a criminal justice questioning. system that systemically failed Just 14 years old, Sanford him at every step of his process” was picked up by police in his are largely responsible for her pajamas, was questioned for client’s nine-year imprisonnearly 24 hours over the course ment. of two days without a parent or Sanford was wrongfully lawyer present, according to his imprisoned since age 14 for a lawyers. On the second consecuquadruple homicide that tive day of questioning, Sanford occurred in 2007 on Detroit’s confessed on video to being Runyon Street. involved in the homicide.

According to Sanford’s legal He subsequently entered a team, Sanford, who is blind in guilty plea in the middle of trial, one eye, was approached by once he realized his defense homicide investigators as they attorney was not going to do

Pleading Our Own Cause

that he could go home.

Sanford’s confession was “a toxic combination of the interrogation tactics that police use across the country combined with vulnerabilities that are inherent to all kids and teenagers,” said Crane, adding that many adults are also vulnerable to the tactics that are “developed for seasoned adult criminals.”

(Cont'd on Page 5)

Voter registration forms sent are not from Broward Elections Office BROWARD COUNTY, FL — In recent weeks, many Broward voters have contacted our office alarmed about a mailing they have received regarding their voter status.

The opening statements of the letter indicate that the voter is not registered to vote in Broward County. The letter is sent from the Voter Participation Center (VPC) located in Washington D.C. Although the organization is well-intentioned in its support of voter registration, their mailings are misleading and often sent to voters who are deceased, or unknown at the listed addressed. Some voters have reported that letters have been addressed to a family pet, an incorrect use of names such as

WWW.

Rushawn Walters (left) and Victoria Jones, the NNPA/ DTU journalism fellows assigned to The Washington Informer, perform research for story assignments at The Washington Informer office in Southeast, Washington, D.C. (Freddie Allen/AMG/NNPA)

By Benjamin F. Chavis, Jr., President of the NNPA

Dr. Brenda Snipes, Supervisor of Elections. nicknames, or to adult children who no longer reside in the home.

(Cont'd on Page 5))

Today, we are exposed to 10minute news segments six times per hour in a 24-hour news cycle on television and the radio.

Twitter, Facebook and other social media platforms are now used for instantaneous news, commentary, and the sharing of perspectives by hundreds of millions of people throughout the world.

Yet, Black-owned newspapers in the United States remain in high demand even amidst the growing digital age of communications and multimedia news services. Social media compliments and extends the reach of the Black Press.

The Westside Gazette Newspaper

@_Westsidegazett

thewestsidegazette.com

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Thanks to Chevrolet, the Discover The Unexpected (DTU) NNPA Journalism Fellows Program is giving undergraduate student scholars from the Howard University School of Communications the opportunity to “Break News” in Detroit, Chicago, Washington, DC, and in Atlanta. Tatyana Hopkins, Sidnee King, Briahnna Brown, McKenzie Marshall, Brandi Montgomery, Brelaun Douglas, Victoria Jones, and Rushawn Walters are all now working with National Newspaper Publishers Association (NNPA) member newspapers in the aforementioned markets.

(Read full story on www.thewestsidegazette.com) MEMBER: National Newspaper Publishers Association ( NNPA), and Southeastern African-American Publishers Association (SAAPA) Florida Association of Black Owned Media (FABOM)

Page 2 • June 23 - June 29, 2016

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Westside Gazette

Bishop V ictor T Victor T.. Curry’ Curry’ss legacy continues through his daughter Pastor Pastor,, leader leader,, activist activist,, and family man

tion, and became the host of The Life of a PK on AM 1490 WMBM. Ultimately, Victoria joined the ministry herself, be-

coming the assistant youth pastor at New Birth Baptist Church Cathedral of Faith International – her dad’s church.

“My dad has been my example, my mentor, my cheerleader all my life,” said the new Mrs. Hicks about her dad. “I

'A young candidate that’s ready to rock the courthouse through change'

By K.L. Brown

Bishop Curry and daughter Victoria.

(MIAMI, FL (Black PR Wire) -- It is a father’s most bittersweet moment to walk his daughter down the aisle. It was no different for prominent pastor and community activist Bishop Victor T. Curry. Usually the headliner in the room, Bishop Curry was happy to let his daughter Victoria have the spotlight as she married John Hicks III on a recent Saturday afternoon.

Bishop Curry has been a tireless community advocate in the South Florida community for more than 25 years, and is the founder and senior pastor of New Birth Baptist Church Cathedral of Faith International. He has three daughters

- Victoria, Veronica, and Victory - but his influence on his namesake and the eldest of his three daughters is easy to see. His commitment to education is reflected in Victoria’s choice to study Elementary Education and her work as a second grade teacher at Henry E. S. Reeves Elementary School in Miami.

His dedication to serving the underserved and disadvant-aged is evidenced in her work with Londyn’s Closet, a non-profit organization that provides teenage mothers with the tools and resources they need to live their best lives. His life’s work in the ministry was so much of a part of her own life that she started The Pastor Kids Coali-

Who would debate that she is a vibrant and energetic candidate that is seeking to change the way we see the office of the Broward County Clerk of Courts in the 17th Judicial Circuit Court here in Fort Lauderdale, Fla.?

Shandrell Roscoe takes no prisoners in her quest to trade in her uniform as a Broward Sherriff’s Office Court Bailiff to win the seat being vacated by Howard C. Forman.

There are five candidates vying for the vacancy, who all have diverse backgrounds. The qualifications for this position have minimal requirements of being a Broward County resident and U.S. citizen.

There are no term limits and a financial obligation in payment of the qualifying fees to have your name put on the ballot is also required. Howard C. Forman held that position for 16 years!

What does Candidate Roscoe see as the changes needed to put the Broward County Clerk’s Office into the 21st century? “I want to bring awareness to the local community of all the services provided through the Clerks’ office and build a partnership that will develop a rapport that doesn’t presently exist.”

She went on to say that “their technology needs to be updated, along with implementing social media interaction with the public to help in their discovery of how the office can be seen as an asset in giving back to the community.”

Most people’s interaction with the Clerk’s office is to take care of something that went wrong! In establishing commu-

Roscoe takes no prisoners. nity programs that can help educate the public in how to maneuver their way better through the ‘system,’ it can shape and develop a more positive image of the office with the citizens it serves in Broward County.

An educational component for a work study type program is also contemplated by Roscoe to help gain service hours for high school youth which can help formulate a career path into law enforcement that gravitates youth to the profession instead of scaring them away from any contact with it.

Those are just a few of the initiatives Candidate Roscoe wants to promote in winning the Clerk’s seat.

Roscoe grew up in the local community and has served her community in the law enforcement field which has given her exerience in working directly within the Clerk’s office. She

also explained that the winning candidate will get the necessary training through the State of Florida through a six week program to familiarize them with their duties as County Clerk.

Her foundation comes from a strong mother that taught school in Broward County Public Schools and instilled in her six children to “do better than she did.”

This is the incentive that Candidate Roscoe takes in stride as she says, “I go hard in accomplishing my goals, and when I leave this earth I want to have done something great!”

This candidacy will be the beginning of getting started on that road of doing and being a better advocate for her community in providing great service as your next Broward County Clerk of the 17th Judicial Circuit Court, and she says she “wants your vote to make it happen!”

owe so much of who I am to him and much of that was reflected in my wedding ceremony.”

The ceremony, coordinated under the theme “Grace walk to the altar,” was deeply religious. The couple incorporated several church rites, including a call to worship and a communion, into their wedding. They also included the two generations of clergy in both their families. The groom serves in full-time ministry at New Birth, and is the president and CEO of JBH Sound and Production Company. His parents are Pastor Johnnie Hicks Jr. and Mrs. Glistine Hicks-Moore. His grandmother is Evangelist Mildred Hicks. Bishops Billy and Catherine Baskin are the bride’s grandparents.

The bride was a vision in a white gown with lace and beading across the bodice. The groom was dashing in a Miguel Wilson suit. Bishop C. E. Glover, senior pastor at Mt. Bethel Baptist Church in Fort Lauderdale, officiated and the couple was flanked by a 27-member bridal party of close friends and family. The couple’s vows spoke of their love of family and their love for the ministry. The bride repeated her grandmother’s words to her own husband, vowing “never to be outdone being [her husband’s] wife.” Guests entered on a 125-foot red carpet complete with an Oscar statue and photo op backdrop. The sanctuary was bedecked with thousands of flowers and a custom wedding canopy as part of an “Old Hollywood” décor. The Curry-Hicks private family reception was fun, whimsical and lavish and included Great Gatsby dancers at the entrance. The highlight of the evening was Bishop Curry’s hip choreographed dance performance with his daughter for the father-daughter dance.

“It was such a fitting thing for us to do,” Victoria CurryHicks said. “My father and I work together but we also have great fun together. It was great getting to share that with our guests.”

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June 23 - June 29, 2016 • Page 3

Westside Gazette

NYU and Penn St. awarded $5.8 million to improve health for minorities living with HIV New Y ork University Rory Meyers College of Nursing (NYU Meyers) Senior Research Scientist Marya Gwadz, PhD York PhD,, along with Distinguished PProfessor rofessor Linda M. Collins, PhD enn State’s College of Health and Human Development, have received a five -year PhD,, PPenn five-year -year,, $5.8M grant from the National Institute on Drug Abuse (NIDA), part of the National Institutes of Health (NIH).

The National Institute on Drug Abuse (NIDA) funding will support a study which utilizes a pioneering engineeringinspired framework - the Multiphase Optimization STrategy (MOST) - developed by Dr. Collins, to design an intervention to increase engagement along the HIV care continuum for African American/Black and Hispanic People Living with HIV (PLWH) who are neither taking antiretroviral therapy (ART) nor well engaged in HIV primary care.

“At least half of PLWH in the U.S. are neither sufficiently engaged in HIV primary care nor taking antiretroviral therapy (ART),” said Dr. Gwadz. “In particular, African American/Black and Hispanic PLWH are less likely to be well engaged along the HIV care continuum than their white peers, and as a result, have lower rates of HIV viral suppression, greater morbidity, and earlier mortality from HIV.” “Traditional ART adherence interventions are not appropriate for these individuals,” notes Dr. Gwadz, “because they experience serious emotional, attitudinal, social, and structural barriers to initiating ART, and as a result, can be described as ‘not ready’ for ART. Further, those who have delayed, declined, or discontinued ART also avoid HIV care, and therefore are rarely seen in HIV clinics.

These multi-level barriers must be addressed to increase their emotional and practical readiness to both initiate ART and engage in HIV care. Yet there are almost no behavioral inter-ventions focusing on patients who have delayed, declined, or discontinued ART.” The study also includes coinvestigators Charles M. Cleland, PhD and Noelle R. Leonard, PhD at NYU Meyers, Leo Wilton, PhD at Binghamton University, and Scott Braithwaite, MD at the NYU Langone School of Medicine.

The MOST framework is a means of assessing the performance of individual intervention components and their interactions, in contrast to the “classical” approach of testing a packaged multi-component intervention against a control.

This is the first study to apply the MOST framework in the field of adult HIV treatment and prevention, and also the first study to include a cost-effectiveness analyses as one aspect of the optimization process.

To this end, the goals of the proposed intervention are threefold: 1. Identify which of five intervention components contribute meaningfully to improvement in the primary outcome, viral suppression, and secondary outcomes, absolute viral load, ART adherence, and

engagement in HIV primary care, all assessed via objective biomarkers or through the medical record.

2. Identify mediators and moderators of the efficacy of each intervention component (e.g., substance use history, sexual minority status), and also of interaction effects between components.

3. Using a mathematical modeling approach led by Dr. Braithwaite, build the most cost-effective and efficient intervention package from the components found to be efficacious in the first goal.

The necessity of potent interventions for this cohort has become increasingly apparent to public health researchers and other stakeholders over the last several decades, particularly for PLWH of color who suffer a unique set of barriers to engagement in the current HIV care continuum.

“The reasons that PLWH of color are less likely to be well engaged along the HIV care continuum stem from a variety of factors—alcohol or drug use problems, distrust of medical settings and medications, fear of side effects, stigma associated with HIV, and others—both historical and cultural,” said Dr. Gwadz. “Further, these barriers are grounded in and complicated by low socio-economic status.”

“These gaps in the HIV care

continuum signal the need for culturally targeted interventions to reduce racial/ethnic health disparities eliminate forward transmission of HIV, and decrease healthcare costs, consistent with the highpriority research areas recently designated by the NIH Office of AIDS Research,” said Dr. Collins. “But we need new methodological approaches to these serious problems.”

“The intervention components we will test are grounded in our past research with this population and the larger research literature on care

continuum interventions. Importantly, they are culturally appropriate for African American/Black and Hispanic PLWH, including those with substance use problems, and sexual minorities,” said Dr. Cleland.

“The components include Motivational Interviewing intervention sessions with individual PLWH, peer mentorship, focused support groups, pre-adherence skill building, and patient navigation to ancillary services.”

“These groups desire and deserve good health as much as any other, but the impediments

to their achieving that goal are multi-faceted and complex,” said Dr. Leonard. “For the past ten years our research team at NYU has focused on understanding these barriers from the perspectives of African American/Black and Hispanic PLWH, as well as how to reduce or circumvent them.”

“We are appreciative that interventions to improve engagement along the HIV care continuum for our nation’s most vulnerable populations ranks among NIDA’s highest research priorities,” said Dr. Wilton.

Muhammad Ali, “The Greatest”, made his final journey home

Louisville Metro Mayor Greg Fischer spoke during the special flag lowering ceremony honoring Louisville’s hometown hero, Muhammad Ali. Flags at all Metro government facilities were lowered to Half-Staff. The ceremony was held June 4, 2016.

By Yvonne Coleman Bach, Louisville Defender Editor Hearts were heavy in many of the citizens of Louisville, Ky. when it was announced that

their hometown hero, Boxing Great Muhammad Ali had died at the age of 74 in a Phoenix, Ariz. hospital Friday, June 3, 2016 from complications relating to Parkinson’s disease,

The Color Guard prepared to lower flags as Louisville officials and citizens looked on in Downtown Louisville as Muhammad Ali is honored. bringing to a close his most challenging fight.

Although Ali was known and loved throughout the country and the world, there was a special bond that he shared with his hometown. Louisville is the home of the Muhammad

Ali Center and just recently, Ali’s childhood home was restored as a museum in his honor. The home is located in West Louisville, the heart of the African American community.

Louisville Metro Mayor Greg Fischer issued a statement

The W indsor D erguson Memorial A wards Windsor D.. F Ferguson Awards College award program for Bethune Cookman, Florida A&M and Tuskegee University students

Top row: Pastor Windsor D. Ferguson, Jr., Cheryl F. Jones. Bottom row: Michael Ferguson, Mother Rosemary Ferguson and Sonya Ferguson.

By Cheryl F. Jones This year marks the 10th Father’s Day without Bishop Windsor D. Ferguson, Sr. However, according to Revelation 14:13 “… Blessed are the dead who die in the Lord from now on.” “Yes,” says the Spirit, “they will rest from their labor, for their deeds will follow them.” In his honor and memory, his children have established The Windsor D. Ferguson Memorial Awards at their HBCU alma mater universities.

Bishop Ferguson was a devoted husband, father, and minister. He served as Deacon, Sunday School Teacher, Choir President, Trustee Board Member, General Secretary Treasurer, National Executive Board Member, Bishop’s Counsel, and Pastor of the National Church of God for 12 years, until his death at age 69, in November, 2006.

Due to family obligations and lacking finances, Bis. Ferguson was unable to attend college.

However, he encouraged his

children to pursue their educational goals to exceed his limitations.

The Windsor D. Ferguson Memorial Awards At Bethune Cookman, this award is for a student pursuing a career in Ministry or Music.

At FAMU, an award is for a student pursuing a career in Nursing. An additional FAMU award is for a student pursuing a career in Music.

For Tuskegee, the student must pursue a Science, Technology, Engineering, or Math (STEM) career. All recipients must demonstrate outstanding leadership and academic success. Complete applications are due by midnight on Oct. 31, 2016 for Bethune and FAMU applicants. Award recipients will be announced late in the fall semester.

For Tuskegee, complete applications are due by midnight on Feb. 28, with award recipients announced in the spring semester.

“We wanted a way of honoring dad, supporting our HBCUs, and recognizing and rewarding outstanding college students.

This awards program does all that. Each time we share this program, we are reminded of dad. To kick it off on Father’s

BISHOP FERGUSON, SR. Day weekend is especially rewarding.

The feedback from the universities has been positive, with all noting the need to financially reward outstand-ing students. We solicit your prayers and financial support in this endeavor. A GoFundMe account is set up for donations to the FAMU Nursing Award.

Please contact me (Cheryl.J1s@comcast.net) to donate to this program or to apply for an award.

“Thank you for your support and May God bless you,” Cheryl F. Jones.

Hundreds sat outside the Muhammad Ali Center on June 6 yelling “Ali Bomaye” following a march that started at Central High School, where Ali attended. Organizers said the march honored Ali and how he brought people together. “Ali Bomaye” is what people in Zaire chanted as they ran beside Ali as he trained for the fight with George Foreman. It means, “Ali kill him.”

(Louisville Defender Photos by Bud Dorsey) about his passing. “The values of hard work, conviction and compassion that Muhammad Ali developed while growing up in Louisville helped him become a global icon. As a boxer, he became The Greatest, though his most lasting victories happened outside the ring.

Muhammad leveraged his fame as a platform to promote peace, justice and humanitarian efforts around the world, while always keeping strong ties to his hometown. Today, Muhammad Ali’s fellow Louisvillians join the billions whose lives he touched worldwide in mourning his passing, celebrating his legacy, and committing to continue his fight to spread love and hope. Thank you Muhammad, for all you’ve given your city, your country and the world.”

To honor Ali’s life and work, flags at all Metro government facilities were lowered to halfstaff at 10 a.m. Saturday morning when citizens joined the mayor in a special ceremony.

Kentucky Governor Matt Bevin said, “The final bell has rung for a great Kentucky legend. Thoughts and prayers go out to the family of Muhammad Ali.” He said on behalf of the Kentucky Boxing and Wrestling Commission, “Ali was more than just the three-time heavyweight champion: he was the Greatest. We are so proud to call him a native son and will work hard to advance the sport he loved. Rest in peace, Champ.”

Senate Majority Leader Mitch McConnell said, “Elaine and I are deeply saddened to hear of the passing of Muhammad Ali, one of the preeminent and most beloved athletes of the 20th Century. Inside the ring, he was graceful on his feet and packed a powerful punch. Outside the ring, he thrilled us with his exuberance for life. He was more than just a boxer. He was The Greatest.

His life story is an American story, and it’s a story that began in Louisville, Ky. He fought his first professional fight there.

And Louisville is now that site of the Muhammad Ali Center, which will continue his legacy and preserve his life story for all to experience. Our thoughts are with the Ali family and the dedicated staff at the Ali Center in this time of grief.”

Senator Rand Paul said, “Louisville, Ky., America and the world lost a legend. Muhammad Ali became ‘The Greatest’ and lived life of strength, principle and generosity. RIP.” Congressman John Yarmuth said, “The word champion has never fit a man better. Muhammad Ali was a champion for peace, a champion for justice, and a champion for equality.

He was a man who gained fame in a violent game, but immorality as a gentle and caring soul. In the ring, there was no one better, but his contributions to humanity managed to eclipse his boxing prowess.

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Page 4 • June 23 - June 29, 2016

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Community Digest

Publix is Proud to Support Community News WHERE SHOPPING IS A PLEASURE

Debate

Issues ranging from economic development to transportation will be discussed at the Downtown Council Breakfast Candidate Forum, 7:30 a.m.

Thursday June 23, 2016 at the Tower Club.

Brittany Wallman, SunSentinel, will moderate the forum for Broward County District 9 candidates, Commissioner Dale Holness and Senator Chris Smith along with State Senate District 34 contenders Gary Farmer, Representative Gwen Clarke Reed and Representative Jim Waldman.

There is a charge. For more information, contact Doug Frens, (954) 462-2570. or visit www.ftlchamber.com/ CandidateForum.

TODAY'S BLACK NEWS IS TOMORROW'S BLACK HISTORY

Luncheon

A Plus Foundation, Incorporated, charitable arm of Chi Psi Omega Chapter of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Inc. will host its Third Annual Emerald Luncheon to honor community church musicians and benefit scholarships for deserving graduating seniors in Broward County, Saturday, 11:30 a.m., June 25, 2016, Marriott North, 6650 N. Andrews Ave., Fort Lauderdale. For more info call Josetta B. Patterson, president at (954) 410-6673.

Meeting Join us this meeting with community partners to discuss the Clinical and Community Linkages focus area in the Broward Healthy Community Zones, next steps and how to get involved, Thursday, June 23, 2016 from 2 to 4 p.m., at Urban League of Broward County, 560 N.W. 27 Ave., Fort Lauderdale, Fla. For additional info and question call (786) 2242309.

Gala

Fair

Antioch Missionary Baptist Church of Miami Gardens invites high school students, especially 2015-2016 seniors to an annual College Fair, Saturday, June 25, 2016 at 8:30 a.m., at Antioch Missionary Baptist Church of Miami Gardens, 21311 N.W. 34 Ave., Miami Gardens, Fla. The Fair is being hosted by Antioch’s CARE Ministry and sponsored

by State Farm Agent Lakitisia Gaines. Students are encouraged to attend the fair dressed for success and prepared for face-to-face interviews with college recruiters Including Lincoln University, Florida Agriculture and Mechanical University (FAMU), Florida Memorial University, Nova University and several other institutions. Students and their parents attending the Fair should bring: 1.Several sealed copies of the student’s official transcripts 2.Several copies of the student’s current test scores 3.A completed FAFSA application. For more info call (305) 624-8170.

The T.J. Reddick Bar Association, Inc. present 25th Annual Scholarship & Award Gala, "Being The Change We Seek!", Saturday, June 25, 2016 from 7 to 11 p.m., at the Signature Grand, 6900 State Rd. 84 Davie, Fla. Justice James E.C. Perry Florida Supreme Court. For cost and additional info call (954) 263-7657.

Workshop A One Stop Sealing and Expungement Workshop will be held Thursday, June 30, 2016 from 3 to 7 p.m. at Oveta McKeithen Recreational Complex, 445 S.W. Second St., Deerfield Beach, Fla. (Doors will close promptly at 7 p.m.)

For additional info call Elizabeth Honorat at the State Attorney's Office (954) 8317209.

Ceremony/ Luncheon

Church Anniversary Bethel Missionary Baptist Church will celebrate its 67th Church Anniversary services starting June 22 - June 26, 2016, nightly services at 7:30 p.m. and will culminate Sunday, June 26 at 3 p.m. Following this service a meal will be served. The church is located at 2211 N.W. Seventh St., Fort Lauderdale, Fla. Rev. Jimmy English.

Greetings NCNW Members, Affiliates and Associates, come join NCNW’s National Membership Committee Chair, A. Lois Keith and National Membership Director, David Glenn, Jr., for the Broward County, FL Section Charter and Installation of Officers Ceremony/ Luncheon, Saturday, July 16, 2016 AT 11 a.m., at Inverrary Country Club, 3840 Inverrary Blvd.Lauderhill, Fla. For more info and price contact Deborah Allen at (954) 5156020 or Laura Richardson at (954) 822-0749.

Scholarship NMAC (National Minority AIDS Council) is currently accepting scholarship applications for the 20th annual United States Conference on AIDS (USCA).

The 2016 conference will be held Sept. 15 - 18, 2016 at The Diplomat Resort, 3555 South Ocean Drive, Hollywood, FL 33019. Sessions will address current issues such as the importance of race in HIV services, biomedical HIV prevention, and women and violence. Additionally, USCA’s 2016 southern Florida conference locale provides a needed opport-unity to address the epidemic among populations in the Caribbean diaspora – the target population for this year.

As our communities encounter rising infection rates, new and innovative methods are needed to turn the tide.

Attending USCA is the best way to gain those skills and learn best practices from those that are experiencing measurable results and positive change. Deadline for Scholarships is July 8, 2016.

Apply online at http:// 2016usca.org/scholarshipregistration/

Happenings at African-American Research Library and Cultural Center

African-American Research Library and Cultural Center, 2650 Sistrunk Blvd., Fort Lauderale, Fla. For more info call (954) 357-6210.

June 2016 Program Highlights “Celebrating Caribbean Heritage Month” Prearranged Group Tours available during library hours: Youth tours Call (954) 3576209. Adults tours (954) 357 6224.

On Display June now thru 30 Art director Anthony Dawson presents: Caribbean Artist’s Journey through Life on Canvas * Thursday, June 23 -from 1 to 2 p.m. Reggae Fitness for Seniors: Seniors interested in getting physically fit through Afro-American and Caribbean music and dances with memories of the good ol’ days… Bob Marley, Percy Sledge! Learn while having fun. Chair exercises optional. **FREE Adult Computer Classes Schedule** Preregistration is required for all classes. Call (954) 3576236 Due to limited seating, registration begins 6 days prior to each scheduled class. Pre-registered students are asked to arrive 15 minutes before class to check in. **Please bring a storage device (such as thumb drive) if you wish to save your work** The following classes are funded by the Broward Public Library Foundation * Tuesday, June 28 -Microsoft Word II, from 10:30 a.m. - 12:00 p.m. **For additional info for FREE classes being offered at other library locations please call (954) 357-6236 or inquire at the Computer or Reference Information Desk. Need FREE help with resume writing?

Inquire at the computer or reference information desk*** Youth Services For more info on Children and Teen programming please call the Youth Ser vices desk at (954) 357-6209. *Thursday, June 30 -Summer Story Time Fun: from 10:30 to 11 a.m., stories, songs, finger plays and other activities for toddlers 3-5 yearsold. 10:30 11 a.m. Pre-Registration Required. To register call (954) 357-2609. *Friday, June 24 -- Friday Family Fun Day: from 1 - 3 p.m. Chess and games for all ages! *Tuesday, June 28 -- Animal Tales: from 2-3 p.m.A hands-on experience with cool animals (reptiles, rodents and more!)? All ages. Pre-Registration Required. Call (954) 357-6209 to register.

Grand Opening

"FORD" BACK IN BUSINESS AGAIN

"FRUITS" "FRUITS" & "FRUITS" CALL -- (954) 557-1203

Grand Opening Celebration of the Pompano Beach Pier Parking Garage on Thursday Thursday, June 30, 2016 from 7-10 p.m., N.E. Second St., between A1A & Pompano Beach Blvd., Pompano Beach, Fla. The event is free to the public, however a limited number of presell parking spaces are available now at www.pompanobeachfl.gov Additional on street parking will be available day of as well as parking in the surface lots located at East Atlantic Blvd & A1A for the regular rate. For more info contact hanna Benson at (954) 786-7824 or by email at Shanna.Benson@copbfl.com.

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Dillard High School continues to make history!

Dillard High School Class of 1966 Added to the Congressional Record Extensions of Remarks

by Congressman Alcee L. Hastings, in recognition of the 50 year reunion of the Dillard

June 23 - June 29, 2016 • Page 5

Westside Gazette

High School Class of 1966. The Hon. Alcee L. Hastings of Florida in the House of Representatives on Tuesday, June 7, 2016.

Mr. Hastings: “Mr. Speaker, I arise today to commemorate 50 years since the Class of 1966 graced the halls of Dillard High School in Fort Lauderdale, Fla.

Dillard has a storied past and a bright future. Originally established in 1907 as Colored School Number Eleven, it’s opening marked the beginning

Childne at es near 50 g Childnett celebr celebrat ates nearlly 1 150 grraduating d County students in Br owar Bro ard Pennsylvania for her Doctorate degree.

Another graduate, Kayla Katz, received a Bachelor’s degree from Florida Atlantic University and plans to further her education with a Master’s degree in Social Work.

At the celebration, guests heard from Keynote Speaker Ernst Pierrelouis, a graduate of Florida State University who will be attending law school in the fall. Graduates were also treated to performances by spoken word poets and a special, inspirational concert from Sons of Mystro.

After the performances, students were presented with gift cards and certificates acknowledging their academic accomplishments.

of monumental African-American achievement in South Florida. All that time Fort Lauderdale was a farming region where locals found it unnecessary to educate African-Americans past the sixth grade.

Two decades later, the school progressed under principal Dr. Joseph A. Ely, who added more classes and sought to educate African-American students past the sixth grade. He was also responsible for the school's current name - a nod to James Harvey Dillard, a white educator from Virginia who was a Black education advocate.

In 1943 Dillard’s well known jazz program was led by Julius ‘Cannonball’ Adderley who later became one of the best-known jazz musi-cians in America. Adderley brought new life to the school and helped instill the importance of jazz in the students. He taught jazz when it had not yet been accepted as a classical art form and while he was teaching Jazz he was also teaching Bach and Beethoven.

Due to an expanding community, the high school grades were moved to a new facility at 2501 N.W. 11 St. in 1950 where the Class of '66 attended and graduated. Dillard High School is now one of 62 high schools in the Broward County Public

Voter registration forms sent are not from Broward Elections Office If any information needs to (Cont'd from FP) We want to insure that voters are not confused by this unsolicited correspondence and that their concerns are addressed quickly.

Therefore, voters who receive the VPC letter are encouraged to contact the office of the Broward County Supervisor to verify their voter status on our website: www.browardsoe.org and click on My Status located on the main page.

New voter information cards will begin arriving at the homes of all Broward County voters by the end of this week. The new cards will reflect voter information based on the recent redistricting process. Voters should review all of their districts and numbers in that some may have changed. Voters are encouraged to review their personal information such as name, address, city and party affiliation. The full name of the political party has been included and is located to the right of the voter’s name.

CHILDNET 2016 graduates.

DAVIE, FL – ChildNet, a community-based care lead agency that protects abused, abandoned and neglected children in the community, celebrated the graduation of almost 150 students who have been in the system of care at the 12th An-

nual Transitional Independent Living (TIL) Graduation Celebration. The celebration took place at Broward College’s Bailey Hall on June 16.

The graduates represented a range of education levels from middle school and high school

to college as well as GED and professional certificate programs. Alyssa Moyer received a Master’s degree in Parks, Recreation and Sports Management from Florida International University and plans to attend Windmere College in

After serving nine years in prison for a quadruple murder he didn’t commit, Davontae Sanford is finally free (Cont'd from FP) Crane continued: “It was clear from the beginning that his confession made little to know sense. It got far more wrong than it did have right.”

Just 16 days after Sanford was convicted, professional hitman Vincent Smothers began insisting that he was responsible for the murders in addition to eight others.

Moran, the director of the Michigan Innocence Clinic at the University of Michigan Law School, said that every detail provided to police about the case

by Sanford was wrong. According to Moran, Sanford misidentified the number of accomplices when matched against eyewitness testimony, misidentified the types of guns used and the location of his alleged weapon and identified a Coney Island restaurant closed for renovations as the place he planned the crime.

“Smothers on the other

hand, told them all sorts of things they didn’t know that turned out to be true,” said Moran.

Smothers was able to provide police with new details about the crime that they later confirmed through further investigation such as the location of a gun used in the crime, suggesting that Smothers’ confession was more likely to be true.

In April 2015, the Michigan Innocence Clinic and Northwestern’s Center on Wrongful Convictions of Youth, headed

by Moran and Crane respectively, filed a Motion for Relief from Judgment high-lighting the detailed, corroborated confession by professional hitman Smothers to the Runyon Street murders and the obvious unreliability of Sanford’s confessions, given their complete lack of corroboration and many inaccuracies. As a result, the Michigan State Police reinvestigated the murders. On May 20, 2016, the Michigan State Police provided the report to the Wayne County Prosecutor’s office.

On June 7, Wayne County Judge Brian Sullivan ordered the immediate release of the

now 23-year-old after he served nearly nine years of a 37-to-90year sentence.

“This is as clear a case of miscarriage of justice as we can ever hope to see,” said Moran.

“It was clear that this was a wrongful conviction based on false confession.”

Tatyana Hopkins is a 2016 NNPA “Discover The Unexpected” journalism fellow.

The “Discover The Unexpected” journalism fellowship program is sponsored by Chevrolet.

Check out more stories by the fellows by following the h a s h t a g #DiscoverTheUnexpected on Twitter and Instagram. Learn more about the program at nnpa.org/

Schools and has become a magnet school open to all of Broward County, hosting three programs.

Performing and Visual Arts where students collabo-rate and work with artists-inresidence and have the privilege of working side-by-side with the professionals at the Broward Center for the Performing Arts, the Fort Lauderdale Museum of Art and other local arts organization.

Emerging computer technology which offers a state-ofthe-art technology curriculum that complments students core academic requirements utilizing computers and the latest technologies to develop higher level thinking skills, critical research and study, communication, and problem-solving.

Digital Entrepreneurship Academy where students understand the essentials for successful business plan development, start-up and operation using digital arts, and using technology to create art, music, multimedia and animation.

Mr. Speaker, clearly all Panthers can be proud of the history and future of Dillard High School. It is my absolute pleasure to wish those Panthers celebrating their 50th high school reunion on June 18, 2016 a joyous and spirited reunion.”

L. Alex Wilson was born in Yalaha, Lake County, Florida in 1909, to parents James and Luetta Wilder Wilson. Educated in the local a schools in Lake County, he was a graduate of Florida A&M College (FAMCEE) and did graduate work in journalism at the University of Wisconsin and Roosevelt University.

Before entering the field of journalism, he served as assistant principal at Lake County Training School in Leesburg and principal at George Washington High School in Port St. Joe. In 1939, he published the Leesburg Herald. Later he joined the staff of the Norfolk Journal and Guide in Norfolk, Virginia. Mr. Wilson joined the staff of the Chicago Defender in 1949. In 1950, he won the annual Wendell Wilkie Award for the best feature WILSON writing in black journalism in 1949.

He was a Marine veteran of World War II and served as a Defender Publications war correspondent in Korea. He later gained nation-wide fame for his courageous coverage of the Little Rock, Arkansas school integration riots in 1957. Then editor and general manager of the Tri-State Defender in Memphis, Tennessee, Mr. Wilson was attacked by an angry white mob while reporting the integration fight at Little Rock’s Central High School.

The famed journalist was named editor-in-chief of the Chicago Daily Defender in 1959, after heading Defender Publications’ Memphis office for almost seven years.

Wilson’s involvement in the community extended to active memberships in local chapters of Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity and Frontiers International. He also served on the Board of Directors of the Abe Scharff YMCA and Boy Scouts Board.

He was married to the former Emogene Watkins, in June, 1956. They became the parents of a daughter. He was also the father of a son by a former marriage.

Wilson died in 1960. He was 51 years old. The official cause of death was Parkinson’s disease, but some attributed it to neurological damage he suffered that day in Little Rock. Following a funeral at Metropolitan Baptist Church, in Memphis, with eulogy by Rev. S. A. Owen, he was interred at Elmwood Cemetery.

be corrected or changed, voters are asked to contact the Supervisor of Elections’ office immediately at 954 357-7050, or via email at elections@browardsoe.org.

Requests for name and party changes must be done in writing by Aug. 1, 2016, which is 29 days before the Aug. 30 primary election.

Voters are invited to visit www.browardsoe.org to review information on the upcoming election cycle which includes the primary election and the General Election scheduled for Nov. 8, 2016. All three methods of voting will be available in each election: vote-by mail, early voting and precinct voting on Election Day. For additional questions or concerns, voters may call the main office of the Broward County Supervisor of Elections at (954)357-7050 or contact the Voter Participation Center at (202) 659-9570.

Dr. Brenda Snipes, Supervisor of Elections.

Page 6 • June 23 - June 29, 2016

Opinion

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Westside Gazette The Westside Gazette, under the Management of BI-ADs, Inc., reserves the right to publish Views and Opinions by Contributing Writers may not necessarily reflect those of the Staff and Management of The Westside Gazette Newspaper and are solely the product of the responsible individual(s) who submit comments published in this newspaper.

Dealing with disrespect from Democrats and Republicans

By George E. Curry, George Curry Media Columnist After last week’s column on how the major presidential candidates snubbed organizers of this year’s National Black Political Convention (NBPC) in Gary, Ind., I received quite a few emails asking: What can we do about it?

For anyone who may have missed the column, I noted that in an ultimate show of disrespect, each major presidential candidate declined to appear before the NBPC in Gary, despite it being co-sponsored by the National Policy Alliance, a federation that includes 10 major Black organizations: Blacks in Government (BIG), the Congressional Black Caucus (CBC), the Joint Center for Political and Economic Studies, the Judicial Council of the National Bar Association, the National Association of Black County Officials, the National Black Caucus of Local Elected Officials, the National Black Council of School Board Members, the National Black Caucus of

State Legislators, the National Organization of Black County Officials and the World Conference of Mayors.

BIG represents three million Black government employees and the CBC say its members represent approximately 43 million people.

I pointed out that most Republicans wouldn’t dare insult conservatives by failing to appear before the annual Conservative Political Action Conference and that neither Democrats nor Republicans would decline to show up for the American Israel Public Affairs Committee (AIPAC). Yet, they don’t think twice before skipping a major gathering of African Americans.

And we continue to take it.

First, let’s stipulate that standing on the sidelines is not the answer, regardless of how disappointed we may be at the behavior of Democrats and Republicans. Not voting is a vote - a vote against anything approaching a progressive agenda. With the direction of the U.S. Supreme Court hanging in the balance, that alone should motivate us to turn out this fall in record numbers.

Second, it’s irresponsible to suggest that there is no difference between the behavior and voting records of Democrats and Republicans. I certainly can identify with the frustration of dealing with liberal condescension, but that shouldn’t blind us to the outright hostility of Republican leaders. Picking the lesser of two evils still leaves us with evil, but not nearly as much evil were Republican policies adopted.

Exhibit A is the GOP record in Congress. When the NAACP graded mem-

bers of Congress on issues important to African Americans, every Republican in the House and Senate received an “F.” Not a D-minus. Not even a Dplus. Voting for them would be voting against our own self-interests.

It hasn’t always been this way.

Blacks voted Republican from the Reconstruction Era immediately after the Civil War until 1936 when Franklin D. Roosevelt received 71 percent of the African American vote in the most lopsided electoral victory in history. After Harry S. Truman desegregated the military and the federal workforce, he received 77 percent of the Black vote in 1948. Even as late as 1960, Richard Nixon got 32 percent of the Black vote against John F. Kennedy.

But the Republican Party grew increasingly anti-Black and no Republican president has received more than 15 percent of the Black vote since Lyndon B. Johnson signed the 1964 Civil Rights Act and the 1965 Voting Rights Act. In 2012, Mitt Romney received 6 percent of the African American vote, according to Roper, and Donald J. Trump appears on track to receive less than that.

More than a half-century after passage of the 1965 Voting Rights Act, Blacks are still underrepresented in public office.

As a Joint Center for Political and Economic Studies report found, “Based on the most recent data, African Americans are 12.5 percent of the citizen voting age population, but they make up a smaller share of the U.S. House (10 percent), state legislatures (8.5 percent), city councils (5.7 percent), and the U.S. Senate (2 percent).”

And some of that failure rests squarely on our shoulders.

As the report noted, “ ...In 2014, when there was great unrest over a police officer’s killing of Michael Brown, African Americans made up 67 percent of residents of Ferguson, Mo. In 2012, a solid 100 percent of

Ferguson precincts went for President Obama, but during Ferguson’s municipal off-cycle elections, voters selected Ferguson’s Republican mayor and six city council members, all of whom except one were white.”

But the problem is larger than that.

Essentially, we provide the margin of victory for Democrats year after year and often get little or nothing in return.

So back to the original question: What can we do about it?

Since my days as a reporter for the St. Louis Post-Dispatch in the 1970s, I have advocated a simple and yet powerful step: Pick one local office, say comptroller or city treasurer, and vote Republican and Democrat in alternate elections. Because Blacks vote overwhelmingly in favor of Democrats, I would vote first for the Republican candidate. It wouldn’t be long before both Democrats and Republicans fall over themselves courting Black voters. And if that fails to capture their attention, then move to a second city office or a statewide contest.

If this happens at the local level, national party leaders would take note and do everything without their power to avoid a shift of loyalty at the national level. Until we show that we will make politicians pay on Election Day, we will continue to get disrespected by both major parties.

George E. Curry is resident and CEO of George Curry Media, LLC. He is the former editor-in-chief of E-merge magazine and the National Newspaper Publishers Association News Service (NNPA).

He is a keynote speaker, moderator, and media coach. Curry can be reached through his Web site, georgecurry.com. You can also follow him at twitter.com/ currygeorge, George E. Curry Fan Page on Facebook, and Periscope.

See previous columns at http:// www.georgecurry.com/columns.

Donald Trump:The Treason Candidate

By Lee A. Daniels George Curry Media Columnist When will the leadership of the Republican Party do their duty to the nation and disavow the candidacy of the wannabe dictator known as Donald Trump?

That question has in fact been looming over them for months, every since he used all the tricks of demagoguery to destroy the supposed “deep bench” of Republican current and former officeholders in the primaries.

Now, it’s staring them - and us all - directly in the face because over the past several weeks Trump has proved he’s not just unfit for the presidency (and any public office) in conventional terms. That was clear long before he began his campaign last June.

No, Trump is now showing the world that he really is something new in American politics. He’s a political monster the likes of which we’ve never seen before as a major party’s candidate for the presidency. He’s shown all those Republicans who’ve taken refuge in cynical calculation and tortured logic to endorse him that there is no bottom to his pathological narcissism, no limit to his amorality, no loyalty to the interests of the Republican Party itself, and not a shred of commitment to following time-honored traditions of American politics, the rule of

law, or the principles of the Constitution.

Trump’s only commitment is to himself: to avoiding facing Hillary Clinton in one-on-one debates during the general election campaign in order to conceal his compete ignorance of policy issues; to obscuring the damning evidence media outlets have been uncovering about his terrible record as a businessman, especially that involving his “Trump University” scheme of a decade ago; and to seizing the reins of power so he can establish his vision of the United States of America - a police state.

So, Instead of discussing his policy differences with Clinton, he implies he’ll be making charges of scandalous behavior against them.

So, as law enforcement begins to investigate the mass murder in Orlando and the nation grieves, Trump publicly congratulates himself for having predicted another terrorist attack would occur in the U.S., and then proposes closing America to all Muslims outside of its borders - and, in effect, stripping Muslim-Americans and Muslim nationals inside the U.S. of their rights.

So, still haunted by President Obama’s humiliating destruction of his “Birther” gambit of five years ago, Trump rearranges the elements of Birtherism to declare Obama sympathizes with the terrorists who would do America and the world harm.

But, in fact, it is Donald Trump who is the traitor in our midst.

When you accuse the first Black president of the United States of “sympathizing” with America’s enemies, you’ve made common cause with the Ku Klux Klan, and the neo-Nazi, white racist militia and white Christian Identity groups that have been peddling that line since Obama took office.

It’s no wonder those treasonous groups have flocked to Trump’s campaign, and have no doubt helped stoke a fierce racist, anti-Semitic and sexist harassment online of journalists who’ve written critically of Trump. In much the same way violent White racists “enforced” White supremacy at the ground level of the South during the Jim Crow decades, these people will be the vigilante enforcers of a Trump administration’s war against the media and war against Muslim Americans and other “undesirables.”

In fact, a small but growing number of Republican office-holders and conservative pundits have, in so many words, acknowledged Trump’s betrayal. They’ve condemned his practicing a politics of “trickle-down racism” and staining the public discourse with this and that “textbook example(s) of racism.”

(Read full story on www.thewestsidegazette.com)

The challenge of America in Orlando with guns and mass shootings

By Roger Caldwell With 300 million guns and no ban on assault rifles, “radical insanity” is a reality in America. There is a pervasive pathological mental health problem in families, youth, men and women across the country, and everyone is saying “not me”. We all want to believe that it cannot happen in our home or neighborhood, but it is happening ev-

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ery day.

We all are living by a thread, and the ability to control violence and mental health starts with the control of our thinking, drinking alcohol, and use of drugs. There is someone in every family who cannot control their drinking and use of drugs, and there is a need for psychological intervention.

Instead of getting mental health assistance and help, the family members bury their heads in the sand, and say, “You know Uncle Joe is crazy.”

The gunman, Omar Mateen, was a 29-year-old security guard who worked for one of the largest global security firms in the world, which employs more than 610,000 people in 110 countries. Mateen was a devout Muslim who pledged his allegiance to ISIS during the massacre. The shooter’s history includes spousal abuse and FBI interrogations, but the cases were inconclusive and subsequently closed.

It would appear that there were mental health issues and red flags

when the FBI did their investigations on Mateen. But who can really identify when a person’s mental state has crossed over into insanity? It is very easy to plan for crisis management and security, but when it happens no one is really ready.

Why does it take a tragic mass shooting for a city and country to treat each other with respect and dignity?

The Pulse nightclub was a gay club, and the majority of residents in Orlando never knew it existed, and would never be caught inside its walls. But, “radical insanity” forced all Americans to understand that we all are one.

The mass media has framed the Orlando massacre as the worst contemporary mass shooting in U.S. history with 50 dead and 53 injured.

(Read full story on www.thewestsidegazette.com)

The Gantt Report

Parental hatred

By Lucius Gantt I hope all of the mothers and fathers enjoyed their days of recognition in 2016.

I feel sad and get mad when I see young people today that hate one or both of their parents!

No one in the Black family is perfect. If you live long enough, all of us will make errors, make mistakes, have indiscretions and do things that we wish we had not done.

Mama didn’t give you life by herself and daddy didn’t cause you to be among the living by himself. They came together and gave you life on this earth together!

When parental couples break up or spouses with children decide to get divorced, children are often caught in the middle of grown folks’ business.

Oftentimes, one parent feels it is becoming or appropriate to disparage or discredit the other parent in an attempt to get children to love one parent and despise the other.

That is wrong!

Children should be taught to love and honor Mom and Dad. Don’t get it twisted, if a parent is evil, wicked, abusive, violent, disrespectful or hateful, if the children are raised right and educated, they can see and determine that for themselves when they become old enough to understand.

I just hate it when a parent suggests that children ignore one parent’s mistakes and hate the other parent for being similarly imperfect.

More often than not, when a mother decides to move from one man to another she falls for the oldest “pimp move” in the world!

The guy she wants to sleep with will say “Thanks for the “cat” but we can’t do anything more serious because you’re going to get back with your baby daddy”.

So, the mom that wants to leave the union will tell the pimp, “No, he’s not like you, he cheats on me, he’s a junkie, he doesn’t work, I pay all of the bills, the children hate their father and love you, he will never be anything and I want you and will never go back to him”.

On the other hand, dads, no doubt, will chase another “cat” after a break up or a divorce but after a long term relationship or marriage comes to an end, most men won’t even consider rushing into a committed relationship or a marriage.

One marriage, for many guys, is like one hit of crack cocaine. One is too much and a hundred (marriages) will never be enough!

Parenting has changed so much.

My parents were divorced when I was 10 years old. My parents couldn’t live together but they still had love for each other and both parents loved my sisters and me. Both parents loved us, both parents were proud of us and both parents were eager to do all they could for us.

And we felt the same way about Mom and Dad. When Mom and Dad got into new relationships or new marriages, we respected that but step parents were appreciated for good things they did with our parents but they could never replace our mother and father.

Jesus tells a story in the Biblical book of Luke about a son that pressed his dad to give him all that he wanted but then the son took off and lived high on the hog because he didn’t need daddy any more.

But when times got hard and the money was gone he made his way back to daddy’s house. Daddy didn’t shun him. Daddy didn’t get mad.

Daddy welcomed him back with open arms!

Children will always need a father, and mother, that love them. You may hate your parents now but God will make you go back and recognize a righteous parent, a good parent and a parent that will love you in spite of your errors, in spite of your mistakes, in spite of your craziness and brokenness.

Parental hate must stop! You don’t have to hang out with your parents, kiss their feet or bow down to them.

The main thing you should do is recognize them, love them and honor your parents for life because they gave you life!

(Buy Gantt’s latest book, Beast Too: Dead Man Writing on Amazon.com and from bookstores everywhere. Contact Lucius at www.allworldconsultants.net.

And if you want to, “Like” The Gantt Report page on Facebook.)

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

Church Directory

New Birth Baptist Church The Cathedral of Faith International Bishop Victor T. Curry, M.Min., D.Div. Senior Pastor/Teacher 2300 N.W. 135th Street Miami, Florida 33167

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

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

Reverend Jimmy L. English

ORDER OF SERVICES Sunday Worship ........................................................ 7:00 a.m., 11:00 a.m. & 7:00 p.m.

Sunday School ....................................................................................................... 9:30 a.m.

Tuesday (Bible Study) ......................................................................................... 6:45 p.m.

Wednesday (Bible Study) ............................................................................... 10:45 a.m.

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

New Mount Olive Baptist Church

PASTOR

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

WORSHIP SERVICES Sunday Worship ............................................................. 8 a.m. & 11 a.m.

Sunday School ........................................................................... 9:30 a.m.

Wednesday (Prayer Service & Bible Study) ............................... 7:30 a.m.

Saturday (Women Bible Study) ............................................................ 8 a.m.

"Baptized Believers working together to do the will of God"

Elevating Word Church 911 N.W. 209 Ave., Suite 122 PEMBROKE PINES, FL 33029 (954) 297-9530 ewc@elevatingwordchurch.org www.elevatingwordchurch.org Sunday Prayer -- 10:30 a.m.

Sunday Worship -- 10:45 a.m.

Wednesday Adult & Youth Bible Study -- 7:30 p.m.

MONTHLY EVENTS *Men’s and Women’s Ministry, *Villa Maria Nursing Home *Food Distribution

Pastor McQuaise & Antoinette Hepburn

“Renewing minds, transforming lives, and impacting the world for Christ.”

Senior Pastor WORSHIP SERVICES & BIBLE STUDY Sunday .................................................... 7:15 a.m. 9:00 a.m. & 11:00 a.m.

Sunday School ............................................................................ 10:00 a.m.

Wednesday Noonday Service .................................. 12:00-12:30 p.m.

Wednesday Night Prayer Meeting ............................................ 6:30 p.m.

Wednesday Night Bible Study ................................................... 7:00 p.m.

Where the kingdom of God is increased through Fellowship.

Leadership, Ownership and Worship F.L.O.W. To Greatness!

St Paul United Methodist Church 244 S.E. Second Avenue Deerfield Beach, Florida 33341 (954) 427-9407 EMAIL EMAIL:: Stpaulmeth@bellsouth.net WEBSITE WEBSITE:: saintpauldeerfield.com

SERVICES

Sunday School .................................................................................... 10 a.m.

Sunday Worship ................................................................................ 11 a.m.

Bible Study (Tuesday) ....................................................... 11 a.m. & 7.p.m.

Obituaries Rev. Juana Jordan, M.Div E-MAIL:juana.jordan@flumc.org 2351 N.W. 26th Street Oakland Park, Florida 33311 Church Telephone: (954) 731-0520 Church Fax: (954) 731-6290

SERVICES Sunday Worship ................................................. 7:30 a.m. & 10:30 a.m.

Sunday School .............................................................................. 9:00 a.m.

Wednesday (Bible Study) ........................................... 11a.m. to 7:00 p.m.

James C. Boyd Funeral Home GIOIA Funeral services for the late Anna C. Gioia – 78.

WILLIAM Funeral services for the late Phil Jordan Williams, Jr. - 85 were held June 18 at New Life Church of God In Christ with Pastor Wardell Chadwick officiating.

McWhite's Funeral Home PLUMMER Funeral services for the late Collins L. Plummer, Jr. - 72 were held June14 at McWhite’s Funeral Home.

Mount Calvary Baptist Church

800 N.W. 8th Avenue Pompano Beach, Florida 33060 Church Telephone: (954) 943-2422 Church Fax: (954) 943-2186 E-mail Address: Mtcalvarypompano@bellsouth.net

Reverend Anthony Burrell, Pastor SCHEDULE OF SERVICES SUNDAY

New Member Orientation ........................... 9:30 a.m.

Sunday School ................................................ 9:30 a.m.

Worship Service ........................................ 11:00 a.m.

WEDNESDAY Prayer Meeting ............................................... 6:00 p.m.

Bible Study ..................................................... 7:00 p.m.

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

Mount Hermon A.M.E. Church Reverend Henry E. Green, Jr., Pastor 401 N.W. 7th Terrace, Fort Lauderdale, FL 33311 Phone: (954) 463-6309 FAX 954 522-4113 Office Hours: Tuesday - Friday 8:30 a.m. to 6:30 p.m.

Email infor@mthermonftl.com

SUNDAY CHURCH SERVICES Worship Service ..................................................................... 7:30 & 10:30 a.m.

Fifth Sunday ONLY .................................................................................... 10 a.m.

Church School ........................................................................................ 9:15 a.m.

BIBLE STUDY: Wednesday ....................................................................... 10 a.m.

Gems & Jewels Ministry Senior Wednesday Wednesday (Bible Study) .................................................... 12 Noon & 7 - 8 p.m.

Daily Prayer Line ...................................................................................... 6 a.m.

(712)432-1500 Access Code296233#

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

Dr. James B. Darling, Jr., Pastor/Teacher WORSHIP SERVICES Worship Service ............................................................................................................ 10:15 a.m.

Sunday School ................................................................................................................ 9:00 a.m.

Communion Service (1st Sunday) ........................................................................... 10:15 a.m.

Wednesday Night Prayer Meeting ........................................................................... 6:30 p.m.

Wednesday Night Bible Study ................................................................................... 7:00 p.m.

Saturday (2nd & 4th) Christian Growth & Orientation ................................... 8:30 a.m.

But be doers of the Word - James 1:22 nkjv - “A Safe Haven, and you can get to Heaven from here”

Join The Religious Elite In Our Church Directory call us Today -- (954) 525-1489

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

Rev. Cal Hopkins.

M.Div) Senior Pastor/Teacher

Dr. Marcus D. Davidson,

Rev. Dr. Jimmie L. Brown Senior Pastor

Harris Chapel United Methodist Church

June 23 - June 29, 2016 • Page 7

Westside Gazette

ROWLAND Funeral services for the late Avon Collier Brown - 58 were held June 18 at McWhite’s Funeral Home Chapel with Pastor Robert Jones officiating. Interment: Sunset Memorial Gardens.

SNELL Funeral services for the late Magnolia Ella Cummings Snell - 69 were held June 18 at Mc-

White’s Funeral Home Chapel with Apostle Jeffrise Jackson officiating. Interment: Sunset Memorial Gardens.

Roy Mizell & Kurtz Funeral Home DOUGLAAS Funeral services for the late Keoni Andre Jahsynne Douglas – 4months-old were held June 18 at Roy Mizell & Kurtz Worship Center.

Interment: Forest Lawn Central.

JACKSON Funeral services for the late Lorenzo Jackson - 50 were held June 18 at New Hope Baptist Church with Pastor Helen Boykins officiating. Interment: Sunset Memorial Gardens.

KING Funeral services for the late Curley B. King – 91 were held June 18 at Hopewell Missionary Baptist Church with Pastor Robert C. Stanley officiating. Interment: Forest Lawn Memorial Gardens-Central.

The WITNESS of “The WILL” Sunday Worship Experiences ................................................................ 7:45 and 11:00 a.m.

Sunday School ................................................................................................................. 9:30 a.m.

Tuesday Night Triumph {Prayer, Praise and Power} Prayer Meeting ................................................................................................................ 7:00 p.m.

Bible Study ........................................................................................................................ 7:30 p.m.

We STRIVE to PROVIDE Ministries that matter TODAY to Whole Body of Christ, not only the Believers, but also for those stranded on the “Jericho Road”!

“Celebrating over 85 Years of FAITH and FAVOR! Come to the WILL ... We’ll show You the WAY: Jesus the Christ!”

Kids Talk About God

Why can’t we see God?

By Carey Kinsolving and friends “We cannot see God because he needs his privacy,” says Patrick, 10. Patrick probably doesn’t want anyone coming into his room without knocking first.

Megan, 8, thinks God likes to be alone. “If everybody saw him, they would always crowd around him.”

She’s got a point. During Jesus’ ministry on Earth, crowds followed him everywhere. Once, by the Sea of Galilee, crowds thronged around him so tightly he could hardly speak to them.

Often, Jesus got up early in the morning just to spend some time alone with his heavenly Father.

If we want to see God, we need to put up our antennae, says Laia, 14. “It’s kind of like a human holding a very small bug. The bug knows something is out there, but because his vision is limited, it’s hard for him to see the human. God is so much bigger. We can’t see His form, but He’s out there.”

I hadn’t thought of that, Laia. Just as some things are too small for us to see, others are too big.

After you’re bug-eyed from considering a bug’s-eye view, just breathe slowly, says Andrea, 11. “God is spirit. You believe in God like you would believe in air. You cannot see it, but you know it is there.”

All right, God is invisible. But is seeing God with our eyes necessary to knowing Him? Put on your detective’s hat, Sherlock, and get to work, says Jacoba, 10. Clues are everywhere. “We see God every time we see a tree, flower, animal or even a person. God shows Himself to us through all his wonderful creations all around us.”

Jacoba,that sounds like something the Apostle Paul wrote in his letter to Roman Christians. Paul wrote that people who ignore what God shows us about himself in creation claim to be wise, but they’re really fools (Romans 1:18-23).

Now close your eyes. You won’t need them. There’s a way of seeing God without our physical eyes, according to Katherine, 8. “Lots of people know who the real God is without seeing Him.” Katherine, I think I know what you mean, but let’s get some help from James, 11. “We can’t see God, because it’s easy for you to see somebody and believe he or she is real. God wants us to be strong and not see but still believe, and for us to have faith in Him.” Yes, the eyes of faith! Thanks, James.

Thank you, friends, for showing us how God has revealed himself in so many ways. These things we can see speak plainly about the God we can’t see. Thinking about seeing God reminds me of something Jesus once said, “He who has seen me has seen the Father.”

Now, here’s the difficult issue. How does sin figure into seeing or not seeing God? William, 12, will never be accused of being a diplomat: “We can’t see God because man is a sinner. God is perfect, and a sinner and God don’t mix.”

A holy God and unholy people. Hmm. Now there’s a problem not even the United Nations can solve.

Amanda, 10, found the solution. “When we go to heaven, Jesus is between us and God so that God will not see our sins.”

Think about this: God clothed himself in human flesh.

Memorize this truth: “And the Word became flesh and dwelt among us, and we beheld His glory, the glory as of the only begotten of the Father, full of grace and truth” (John 1:14).

Ask this question: Have you seen God today?

“Kids Talk About God” is written and distributed by Carey Kinsolving. To access free, online “Kids Color Me Bible” books, “Mission Explorers” videos, a new children’s musical, and all columns in a Bible Lesson Archive, visit www.KidsTalkAboutGod.org.

To read journey-of-faith feature stories written by Carey Kinsolving, visit www.FaithProfiles.org.

Pray for Peace

Page 8 • June 23 - June 29, 2016

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Liberty Bank and Trust CEO Alden McDonald cuts the ribbon at Liberty Bank Sci Academy Senior Science Lab in New Orleans.

(Part One of a Two-Part Series)

By Patrice Gaines, Urban News Service America has half as many Black-owned banks as existed 15 years ago.

“People assume [Black bankers] don’t know what they are doing,” said Alden McDonald, CEO of New Orleans-based Liberty Bank and Trust. “Put yourself in these shoes: We are located in communities in which all of the large banks have moved out of because it’s not profitable for them to do business there.”

The number of Black-owned banks fell 54 percent between 2001 and 2016, according to the Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation (FDIC).

Historically, these banks have stimulated and revitalized their communities while also financing customers whom major banks have shunned.

“From 1888 to 1934, African-Americans owned more than 130 banks in the U.S., and the number of Black-owned businesses rose from 4,000 to 50,000,” McDonald said at a

January ceremony in which the U.S. Treasury Department named an annex the “Freedman’s Bank building” after the bank Congress incorporated to help “freed” Blacks transition from slavery.

Integration ended that economic boom. Black business districts disappeared as Black consumers spent their dollars elsewhere. Many Black banks, the institutions that extended loans for start-ups and renovations, disappeared as well.

Today, Black banks are struggling to overcome the ripple effects of the Great Recession, in which they suffered more than larger banks. And only a few Black banks qualified for the federal bailouts that major financial institutions gleaned.

“Even though we are now hearing some good news,” FDIC chairman Martin J. Gruenberg said to Black bankers in 2014, “we know that in many of the communities you serve, the pace of recovery is lagging.”

(Read full story on www.thewestsidegazette.com)

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Morticians from around the state converge on Broward County

June 23 - June 29, 2016 • Page 9

Westside Gazette

Blac k w omen lead g eaking Black women grr oundbr oundbreaking national women econf er ence tto o Int er Inter ernational omen’’s pr preconf econfer erence AIDS Conf er ence in Durban, Sout h Afr ica Confer erence South Africa

By April Eugene

Parents of slain six-year-old King Carter, Monica Smith and Santonio Carter.

Despite many scientific and biomedical advances, women worldwide are acquiring HIV at an alarming rate. In an effort to shift the conversation to include those most at risk, on July 13-15, the Women Now! 2016 preconference to the 21st International AIDS Conference in Durban, South Africa, will focus on HIV, sexual and reproductive health, and justice for women, particularly of African descent. This is the first in a series on the IAC. The Women Now! 2016: PanAfrican Women’s Summit will convene a broad spectrum of activists and professionals to address critical areas of concern for women’s human rights as viewed through an intersectional lens. Organizers want women and girls prioritized more highly in the global response to HIV/AIDS at this critical juncture in the advancement of HIV prevention technology and advocacy.

“The [high] level of interest and excitement is a telling sign that we are all hungry to have these conversations and might

Africa—of the conference, which is expected to attract 350 attendees. Sub-Saharan Africa has one of the highest rates of HIV infection among women, who are estimated to account for 60 percent of new infections,

and 74 percent of PLWHA ages 15 to 24, there. Overall, women account for more than half of the global HIV pandemic.

Black farmer fights to kill death tax

son, aka Prince, 57, who died without a will on April 21, at his Paisley Park Studio complex in Chanhassen, Minn.

Prince, who died of an opioid overdose, was unmarried, had no children and was preceded in death by his parents.

Under Minnesota law, his sister and five half-siblings will inherit his assets, which are estimated to be worth up to $300 million. Estate planners believe that Prince’s fortune may shrink in half because he departed without directing his assets into charitable donations, trusts or other tax shelters.

speak to the fact that we haven’t tackled some of these issues,” says co-chair Dázon Dixon Diallo—founder and president of SisterLove Inc., an Atlantabased reproductive-justice organization with ties to South

(Read full story on www.thewestsidegazette.com)

Broward Sheriff Scott Israel and Sybrina Fulton.

By Avis Thomas-Lester, Urban News Service

Rhonda Perry and Mrs. McCrae, organizers for the event.

(Cont' from FP) Sabrina Fulton, the mother of the late Trayvon Martin, the teen whose life was cut short by vigilante George Zimmerman, addressed the peace rally.

“To this day I still don’t understand why my 17-year-old son is not here with us. I still have problems with understanding the whole thing about gun violence and why we have to go through this.

“I’m starting to understand that this is not about me and it’s not about Trayvon. It’s not our fight. We fight this battle for God. And we have to stand tall, even though it hurts us. I don’t know how many parents here have lost a child but it’s a daily fight.

“What I’m asking you to do.

What I’m challenging you to do is to make sure that you’re connecting yourselves with not only your children but other children as well because everybody needs somebody,” Fulton added.

One of the most poignant moments during the peace rally occurred when the diminutive six-year-old granddaughter of Avis Gaines Boyd, stepped up to the podium and said, “Please stop the violence so I will have a chance to grow up. Our lives do matter. My name is Jaeliana Sullivan and I approve this message.”

Oftentimes in communities of color there is an adversarial relationship between law enforcement and young people in those communities. Broward County Sheriff’s provided one proposal aimed at rectifying the problem.

“I’m going to be the first Sheriff of Broward County when I leave office that every single deputy will wear a body camera. I want to know what happened and you need to know what happened.”

Col. Alvin Pollack of the Broward Sheriff’s Office said his agency also has implemented a summer gun safety program as well as gun buyback program

scheduled over the next several months.

“Today means a lot to us in law enforcement. Here in Broward County we’re making headways. We’re bringing the educational part of it to our community. When you see the community come together to support law enforcement, we can win this battle. Let’s continue to tell these kids to put the guns down because we’re losing too many lives.”

Rev. Dr. Derrick J. Hughes, pastor of First Baptist Piney Grove Church, addressed the church, offering up his appraisal of the situation from a biblical perspective.

“We have the opportunity now to bring the ‘Clarion Call’, to the darkness that we face and to speak up and stand up and stand in the gap for those who do not have and those who cannot speak for themselves.

We have the opportunity now to press the way for what is right and for what we believe and what we stand on.”

State Senator Chris Smith offered a sobering reminder of just how critical gun violence had become in many communities of color nationwide.

“It’s amazing I’ve never seen McDonald’s promote dieting.

I’ve never seen Budweiser promote sobriety or the NRA promote the end of gun sales. But it’s so great to have morticians stand up and say, ‘We get enough business. We get enough that have gone home.

We’ve got too many who are sent home in our communities.”

Richard A. Kurtz, MizellKurtz Funeral Home Chairman of the Board of FMA, voiced the opinion of many of his fellow morticians gathered at the rally.

“We’re tired of the senseless killing of our young Black people and who would know more about that than the undertakers who bury them. So we hope this will be a warning to the community so that we can have an impact and stop some of this violence, “said Kurtz.

John Wesley Boyd, Jr., lives off the land raising cows and growing soybeans and corn on 400 acres he owns in rural Baskerville, Vir. He works alongside his father, John Wesley Boyd, Sr., 75, who farms 117 acres nearby that he inherited from his own father. Together they’ve faced drought, fluctuating crop prices and encroaching development.

Farming isn’t an easy life, Boyd, Jr. said, but it’s one that he enjoys and hopes to pass down to his own children.

Unless, he said, his family is forced to sell the farm to pay the estate tax upon his death.

“People work hard to get something and make it grow,” said Boyd, 50. “Then, when they want to pass it on to their families, they owe the government so much in estate tax that the family has to sell the business to pay it. It’s not right.”

Boyd, founder and president of the National Black Farmers Association, is among a group of small- and medium-sized business owners who are lobbying for the repeal of the estate tax, which federally is levied on transferrable assets beyond $5.45 million — double that for married couples. The U.S. Senate soon will consider legislation to rescind the 40 percent federal estate tax. The House of Representatives voted to end it last year.

The estate tax, sometimes called the “death tax,” has been widely discussed since the loss of musician Prince Rogers Nel-

John Wesley Boyd, senior and junior.

Get H.I.P ested : National HIV Testing event H.I.P,, Get TTested He has had Billboard hits in top #1 and #2 spots. His featuring Trick Daddy Concert the music target Blacks, age group BTAN in collaboration with Broward Health, AIDS Healthcare Foundation, City of Lauderhill Officials, YMCA and several HIV agencies are coming together to educate our community about the science, treatment and disparity of HIV/AIDS in the minority community. All together we can make this a successful event. Blacks represent 26 percent of Broward’s population however, 47 percent of all HIV cases are Black.

National HIV Testing Day is on June 27th and each year we come together for an annual event to get Black people in the highest areas (33311, 33313 and 33319) affected by HIV/ AIDS to come out, get educated and tested. Broward County is #2 in new cases of HIV in the nation. According to the Center of Disease Control and Prevention, one out of every six people

THE SCHOOL BOARD OF BROWARD COUNTY, FLORIDA NOTICE OF MEETINGS 6/28/16 KCW Bldg., 600 SE 3rd Ave., Ft. Laud.

9:00 a.m.

•Special School Board Meeting 10:00 a.m. or •School Board Workshop immediately following the Special School Board Meeting

7/26/16 10:00 a.m.

10:15 a.m.

KCW Bldg., 600 SE 3rd Ave., Ft. Laud.

•Special School Board Meeting- Expulsions •Regular School Board Meeting

Regular School Board Meeting – Public speakers listed on the agenda will be heard at 12 p.m. or as close to that time as possible.

Workshops – Public speakers will be permitted three minutes each to address a topic at the conclusion of Board Members' discussion on the topic. The times for items on the agenda are only estimates.

The actual start times for these topics may vary up to an hour or more depending on the nature of the items and the length of the Board discussions and public comments.

The School Board of Broward County, Florida, prohibits any policy or procedure which results in discrimination on the basis of age, color, disability, gender identity, gender expression, national origin, marital status, race, religion, sex or sexual orientation. Individuals who wish to file a discrimination and/or harassment complaint may call the Director, Equal Educational Opportunities/ADA Compliance Department at 754-321-2150 or Teletype Machine (TTY) 754-321-2158. Individuals with disabilities requesting accommodations under the Americans with Disabilities Act Amendments Act of 2008, (ADAAA) may call Equal Educational Opportunities/ADA Compliance Department at 754-321-2150 or Teletype Machine (TTY) 754-321-2158.

Telephone conferencing or other telecommunications technology may be used in conducting this public meeting to permit absent Board Members to participate in discussions, to be heard by other School Board Members and the public, and to hear discussions taking place during the meeting.

living with HIV is unaware of their infections.

At the annual testing event we test about 65 people of the 300 attendees each year. However we are not reaching enough people in areas where stigma is the reason why people won’t get tested. This year we have set a goal to do a testing initiative on a larger scale where we would test about 1,000 people.

To reach this goal, on June 24, 2016 we will be hosting a concert at Lauderhill Performing Arts Center with the Rapper Maurice Samuel Young, stage name Trick Daddy.

Trick Daddy is a national rapper, actor and producer from Miami, Liberty City.

Date 6/27/16 7p 7/6/16 9a 7/6/16 7p 7/11/16 2-4p 7/11/16 6p 7/13/16 2-3p 7/13/16 7p 7/18/16 3-4:30p 7/20/16 1-2:30p 7/20/16 7p 7/21/16 7p 7/25/16 10a

19-55, the group that we would like to encourage to get tested.

HIV/AIDS related illnesses remain one of the leading causes of death among Black people.

As a testing incentive, if a person take a free HIV test from one of the sponsoring agencies, they will be given a FREE ticket to come to the concert when they receive their result. For persons who are positive they will receive a FREE ticket from their medical provider. Dates for testing sites are listed at: h t t p s : / browardbtanbag.shutterfly.com/ The planning committee and all of our partners are looking forward to this being a successful event for our Broward County community.

THE SCHOOL BOARD OF BROWARD COUNTY, FLORIDA NOTICE OF MEETINGS MEETINGS SUBJECT TO CHANGE OR CANCELLATION Meeting Place Facilities Task Force Plantation High School, Media Ctr - General Mtg 6901 NW 16 St., Plantation Pre-Qualification/Re-Cert. of TSSC – Rm. #323 Contractors 7720 W. Oklnd Pk Blvd., Sunrise North Dist. Schools Advisory TBD -Steering Comm/Transition Mtg Diversity Committee -School Lauderdale Manors Lrng. Cntr.

Site Visitation Sub-Committee 1400 NW 14th Court, Ft. Laud.

Parent/Community Involvement Southwest Regional Library Non-Profit Forum 16835 Sheridan St, Pembrke Pines Diversity Committee -School Lauderdale Manors Lrng. Cntr.

Site Visitation Sub-Committee 1400 NW 14th Court, Ft. Laud.

North Dist. Schools Advisory TBD -Steering Comm/Transition Mtg Diversity Committee - School Lauderdale Manors Lrng. Cntr.

Site Visitation Sub-Committee 1400 NW 14th Court, Ft. Laud.

Diversity Committee - School Lauderdale Manors Lrng. Cntr.

Site Visitation Sub-Committee 1400 NW 14th Court, Ft. Laud.

North Dist. Schools Advisory TBD -Steering Comm/Transition Mtg Facilities Task Force Plantation High School, Media Ctr - General Mtg 6901 NW 16 St., Plantation Superintendent's Ins. & Wellness TSSC - Annex Advisory Committee (SIWAC) 7720 W. Oklnd Pk Blvd., Sunrise (Purpose: to review the SIWAC’s Mission & Procedures, and any other matters the Committee deems important.)

7/25/16 Parent/Community Involvement Southwest Regional Library 12p Non-Profit Forum 16835 Sheridan St, Pembrke Pines 7/27/16 Pre-Qualification/Re-Cert. of TSSC – Rm. #323 9a Contractors 7720 W. Oklnd Pk Blvd., Sunrise 7/27/16 North Dist. Schools Advisory TBD 7p -Steering Comm/Transition Mtg The School Board of Broward County, Florida, prohibits any policy or procedure which results in discrimination on the basis of age, color, disability, gender identity, gender expression, national origin, marital status, race, religion, sex or sexual orientation. Individuals who wish to file a discrimination and/or harassment complaint may call the Director, Equal Educational Opportunities/ADA Compliance Department at 754-321-2150 or Teletype Machine (TTY) 754-321-2158. Individuals with disabilities requesting accommodations under the Americans with Disabilities Act Amendments Act of 2008, (ADAAA) may call Equal Educational Opportunities/ADA Compliance Department at 754-321-2150 or Teletype Machine (TTY) 754-321-2158.

Notice is hereby given that two or more Board Members of The School Board of Broward County, Florida, may be participating.

Page 10 • June 23 - June 29, 2016

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Westside Gazette

President Obama officially declares June 2016 African-American Music Appreciation Month homage. On May 31, President Obama declared the month of June 2016 “African-American Music Appreciation Month” in a presidential proclamation.

Although June was first deemed “Black Music Month”

by Jimmy Carter and campaigned for by songwriter and producer Kenneth Gamble back in 1979, President Obama felt strongly that an official proclamation was more appropriate, especially as our first Black President.

The full text of the proclamation calls African-American

President Barack Obama As his presidency comes to a close, President Barack Obama is going out with a bang. Within

his two terms he’s made some major changes in the country and his latest is one of cultural

FUNdraising Good Times

Important role of corporate support for nonprofits

By Pearl and Mel Shaw Financial and in-kind support from businesses and corporations are so important to the life of nonprofits. Whether through event sponsorships or grants for programs and operations, businesses matter. They provide visibility, funding and talent. Employees and executives serve as board members and volunteers donating their time, expertise and money.

They encourage others to do the same; inviting their consumers, customers, partners and employees to join them in giving.

Likewise, there are benefits that accrue to businesses who engage with nonprofits. These include the opportunity to extend your brand to a new audience, or to communicate your support of specific nonprofits to your current audience. Supporting a nonprofit is an ideal way to increase visibility, network, and extend your brand.

Sponsoring nonprofit events also helps attract and retain talent, especially amongst employees who want to feel connected to their community through the workplace. It can also be a cre-

LEGAL NOTICES PUBLICATION OF BID SOLICITATIONS Broward County Board of County Commissioners is soliciting bids for a variety of goods and services, construction and architectural/engineering services. Interested bidders are requested to view and download the notifications of bid documents via the Broward County Purchasing website at: www.broward.org/purchasing.

June 2, 9, 16, 23, 30, 2016

ative – and often cost-effective – way to meet marketing or other business goals. These are a few examples of the positive impact corporate philanthropy can have on a business.

Corporate philanthropy also strengthens the community.

Every day we see the impact that Wells Fargo, FedEx, Nike, Toyota, UPS, and other businesses large and small make on the quality of life in communities across the country. Local businesses are also busy investing in our nonprofits with funding and volunteer hours that increase nonprofits’ impact.

It is important to focus on the business-related benefits of a relationship with a nonprofit.

At the same time it is important to remember that nonprofits provide a community with many intangible benefits that a business cannot purchase or provide.

For example, if your company seeks to ensure that it conducts business with minority and women owned firms, then it is important to support those nonprofits that incubate, mentor, and help build the capacity of these firms. It is difficult for a municipality or business to contract with firms that don’t exist, or that have challenges scaling to meet increased demand. History has shown the important role that minority business development organizations play, especially when there is a history of limited business opportunities for minority and women owned businesses.

(Read full story on www.thewestsidegazette.com)

music “among the most innovative and powerful art the world has ever known.” President Obama also calls upon “public officials, educators, and people of the United States to observe this month with appropriate activities and programs that raise awareness and foster appreciation of music that is composed, arranged, or performed

by African Americans.”

Throughout his time in office, President Obama has shared his love for lyricists like Kendrick Lamar and Mos Def and have praised singers like

Mary J. Blige and Erykah Badu. He has even met with a slew of musicians ranging from J. Cole to Chance the Rapper to Nicki Minaj to Pusha T to discuss the “My Brother’s Keeper” initiative — a way to address persistent opportunity gaps faced by boys and young men of color and ensures that all young people can reach their full potential.

“This month, we celebrate the music that reminds us that our growth as a nation and as people is reflected in our capacity to create great works of art,”

he continued. “Let us recognize the performers behind this incredible music, which has compelled us to stand up — to dance, to express our faith through song, to march against injustice, and to defend our country’s enduring promise of freedom and opportunity for all.”

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Westside Gazette

June 23 - June 29, 2016 • Page 11

Pfizer officials call for Blacks to participate in Sickle Cell Disease Clinical Trials

By Joan H. Allen (NNPA News Wire Contributor) June 19, 2016 marks World Sickle Cell Day. In a desire to help create a greater awareness of sickle cell disease (SCD) and increase their efforts to find a cure, Pfizer invited members of the Black Press to meet and discuss with key members of their rare disease medical and management staff the state of (SCD) and their search for a cure.

It is estimated that sickle cell disease (SCD) affects approximately 100,000 Americans and 1 out of 365 Blacks in the United States, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. About 1 in 13 Blacks are born with sickle cell trait (SCT).

Sickle cell disease is one of the most prevalent genetic disorders in the U.S. It is a rare and debilitating chronic disease with lifelong clinical impact and reduced life expectancy; life expectancy is 48 years for females and 42 years for males with sickle cell disease.

There are more than 100,000 people in the U.S. living with sickle cell disease, and many of them experience multiple vasoocclusive crises each year. These painful crises result in more than 75,000 hospitalizations per year in the U.S., with an average hospital stay of approximately six days.

Niesha Foster, the senior director and corporate affairs

lead for Pfizer’s inflammation, immunology and rare disease unit, introduced the participants who shared why they’ve been so devoted to creating greater awareness about (SCD), and the opportunities available to assist those that struggle with this debilitating disease.

Sonja Banks, the CEO of the Sickle Cell Disease Association of America, Inc. (SCDAA) shared how alarmed she was to learn in 2010 that “in a hundred years of discovering the sickle cell disease, only one FDA drug had been approved and it wasn’t even for sickle cell. It was just as heart wrenching then, as it is now, to know that our people are still going to hospitals as their medical home. Why don’t we have a cure?”

Pfizer’s Chief Medical Officer Dr. Freda Lewis-Hall recalled the joy she initially felt interning at Howard University Hospital after graduating from medical school, but when she attempted to ease the pain of a toddler living with sickle cell, that joy was replaced with an overwhelming sense of futility.

“I heard an unbelievable piercing sound from a toddler in a sickle cell crisis,” said LewisHall. “I tried to hydrate her and provide some pain relief…It was at that moment that I realized how helpless I was without the tools.”

Thirty years later, Lewis Hall said that physicians still

Pfizer is currently in Phase 3 of their clinical trial for a drug to treat sickle cell disease. The company needs to enroll 350 participants within the next two years. lack the necessary tools to treat the disease.

Although some of the drugs that scientists have discovered have just not been good enough or safe enough, according to Lewis-Hall and Banks, the reason why a cure hasn’t been developed is because African Americans haven’t participated enough in clinical trials.

All of the participants, including Dr. Kevin Williams, the vice president of global medical affairs in Pfizer’s rare disease unit, recognized that African Americans are reluctant and often afraid to participate in clinical trials, because of the lingering distrust of the medical field due to the Tuskegee Syphilis Study and often poor treatment received at medical facilities.

Thomas Watkins, the publisher of the Daily Challenge, said “Blacks will participate in clinical trials as long as they’re not the only ones.”

(Read full story on www.thewestsidegazette.com)

The BTW High School Foundation, Inc. announces 2016 scholarships and grants

Foundation members, l to r: David Robinson, II; Walter Perkins, Jr., Clement Minnis; Georgena D. Ford; Carrie B. Mickey, Mary McCier, Joyce Moffett, John D. Glover; Delores P. Mathis, Wylene Robinson and James Hunt.

John D. Glover, president and CEO of the BTW High School Foundation, Inc., (the Foundation) announced the award of 20 scholarships and grants, valued at $34,000 during the school’s annual awards ceremony on May 17, 2016.

The Foundation awarded six new scholarships to BTW graduates. Christine Altidor and Kayla Saintange each received a $3,000 scholarship from the Herbert Carter Endowment.

Alexis Gabriel and Unique Prentice each received a $1,500 scholarship donated by Dade County Federal Credit Union.

Viviana Acevedo received a $3,000 scholarship donated by Brian and Hope Anderson.

Jaimesha Taylor was awarded a $1,500 scholarship donated

by James and Elsa Hunt.

In addition to the above six new scholarships awarded this year, the Foundation continues to provide scholarship assistance to its 14 scholarship recipients from the past three years.

They all will receive $1,000 donations from the Foundation.

They are as follows: Jewly Fleuristil/FIU; Kesley Glover – St. Thomas University; Tytiana Haynes/ MDC; Ashley Jeanty/ FSU; Terry Jefferson/FAMU; Khalyla McKnight/FIU; Richie Revere/Clark Atlanta University; Michelle Lawrence-Muniz/ UF; Lucia Solano/UF; DeAndres Sherwood-Kerr/Clarke Atlanta University; Taressa Straughter/Purdue University; Za-

bhrya Tillman/Spelman College; Phedricka Thomas/FAMU and India Williams/Miami Dade College.

In addition, the Foundation awarded a $6,000 grant in support of the BTW After School and Saturday Academy. A $500 grant was awarded to the Teacher of the Year for reading text books.

The event was the foundation’s 13th consecutive year of

scholarships and grants award ed to the school.

Membership in this Florida not-for-profit, Federal taxexempt, foundation is open to anyone interested in improving the academic performance of BTW, an historic high school in Overtown, Miami. Write to: BTW High School Foundation, Inc., 8015 N.W. 21 Ave., Miami, Fla. 33147.

Page 12 • June 23 - June 29, 2016

Scoops with BSO’s Troops held in Deerfield Beach The men and women of Broward Sheriff’s Office and McDonald’s held its Scoops with BSO’s Troops on June 18, 2016 in Deerfield Beach at McDonald’s, 3901 W. Hillsboro Blvd. This is the first of a series of ice cream socials hosted by Sheriff Scott Israel.

There will be several Scoops with BSO’s Troops, including one in Lauderdale Lakes in July. Stay tuned!

Our Scoops with BSO’s Troops is a summer community initiative that allows kids to cool off with a free McDonald’s ice cream while getting to know their friendly firefighters and deputies.

Ronald McDonald entertained the children and put on a juggling show. Sheriff Israel addressed the children and their parents, and shared his commitment to supporting kids in the community.

Kids painted an out-of-commission BSO firetruck and took photos in a Chevrolet Camaro while a teen from Deerfield Beach’s Police Athletic League played DJ.

Westside Gazette

www.thewestsidegazette.com

Broward Sheriff Scott Israel with Ronald McDonald at Broward Sheriff’s Office’s first “Scoops with BSO’s Troops” (l) photo and (r) photo Deerfield Beach BSO Sgt. Shelunda Cooper posed with children at “Scoops with BSO’s Troops”.

Biotech pioneer hopes to heal with honey

RODRIGUEZ

By Luis Vasquez-Ajmac, Urban News Service Show Kayla Rodriguez a jar of honey, and she will tell you it’s medicine.

Against the odds is one way to describe the young Latina entrepreneur in the predominantly white, male-dominated, global biotech industry. Rodriguez, a 28-year-old of Puerto Rican descent, co-founded SweetBio, a start-up biotech company that uses honey to heal the body.

Rodriguez started the Memphis-based company with her brother Isaac, 31, who holds a Ph.D. and is CEO and chief scientific officer. Marsalas Whitaker, 25, also a co-founder, is chief marketing officer. Together, they are pioneers in adapting an ancient remedy into an oral-medicine treatment.

Honey has been used for thousands of years because of its wound-healing and antibacterial properties.

Medical patients already enjoy the benefits of manuka honey. Hospitals use it to treat burns, cuts and ulcers. Manuka honey even may be effective against MRSA (methicillinresistant staphylococcus aureus), an antibiotic-resistant bacterial infection that sometimes plagues hospitals and kills patients.

SweetBio, which launched in 2015, is the first company to introduce honey into the practice of dental surgery. The epiphany came to Isaac who knew that skin cells are similar to gum cells and if honey can work on skin, why not on the mouth? SweetBio soon was born.

Heart and respiratory problems are some of the risks associated with gum infections.

“This technology will help fight infections. It will decrease your chances of getting heart or lung disease,” Kayla said. “I want everyone to know this is a natural remedy.”

Dr. Martin Green, director of the University of Tennessee’s graduate periodontal program, agrees. “This will help grow back jaw bone structure, help people live a more fulfilled life, smile and eat better,” he said.

SweetBio’s product is designed to be easy to use and pain-free. The SweetBio membrane device is like a Listerine strip. It’s placed in the mouth after oral surgery. It helps one’s mouth heal correctly and dissolves on its own. This device can also be used after a tooth has been pulled.

The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has yet to greenlight SweetBio. This government-approval process can take months to years.

Related FDA fees can cost from a few thousand to a quarter million dollars. Still, SweetBio hopes to be in market next year.

(Read full story on www.thewestsidegazette.com)