PRESORTED STANDARD U.S. POSTAGE PAID THE LINCOLN ECHO Fort Smith, AR PERMIT#240

We Report the NEWS. You Interpret It. Website www.thelincolnecho.com MARCH 2014

Volume 23 Issue 12 P.O. BOX 771 Fort Smith, Arkansas 72902 50 CENTS

ADAM WEBSTER HONORED

Baridi Nkokheli, City of Fort Smith director of sanitation, conducts a Bass Reeves presentation at a Black History Month event held at The Fort Smith Noon Exchange Club honored another the 188th Fighter Wing headquarters auditorium Feb. 9, 2014. Be- outstanding volunteer at their 72nd Annual Golden Deeds cause of his resemblance to the former U.S. Marshal and Van Buren, Banquet on February 7, at Fianna Hills Country Club. Ark., native Reeves, Nkokheli often re-enacts the character of Reeves The Book of Golden Deeds Award, recognizes dedicated in presentations around the area. volunteers who give endless hours of their time and talents Baridi is also very active in community activities giving youth the toward making their communities better places to live. opportunity to make positive contributions to their development. The 2013 Golden Deeds recipient honored at the Golden Deeds Banquet was Adam Webster. Adam has been a volunteer football coach at the Fort Smith Boys & Girls Club for the past 40 years. During the past 36 consecutive seasons, he has coached the McDonalds midget league team at the Evans Boys & Girls Club. One of his former players at the club, Gus Malzahn, was recently awarded the Fort Smith Boys & Girls Club with a $20,000 cash award. This gift was presented to the Club on behalf of Coach Malzahn and Liberty Mutual.

Melvin Morris was commanding a strike force on a mission near Chi Lang, South Vietnam, when his special forces group came under attack and a fellow commander was killed near an enemy bunker. Despite massive enemy fire directed at him and his men, hitting him three times, the 72-year-old Morris told The Associated Press on Friday that he was able to get to his fallen comrade and recover the body. He also retrieved a map that included strategic information that would have been trouble if it fell into enemy hands. More than four decades later, as a way to try to correct potential acts of bias spanning three wars, President Barack Obama will be- It was a night of many emo- Awards and Forest Whitaker stow the Medal of Honor on the Florida man and 23 other veterans. tions as Essence magazine, executive produced the They come after a decade-long congressionally mandated review of known for celebrating black acclaimed “Fruitvale Station” minorities who may have been passed over for the U.S. military’s women, held its first ceremony and starred in the box-office highest honor because of long-held prejudices. honoring the achievements of smash “The Butler.” All were Morris became one of the first soldiers to don a “green beret” in African-American men in Hol- lauded for their success at 1961 and volunteered twice for deployments to Vietnam during lywood in the days leading up “Black Men in Hollywood” the war. After his Sept 17, 1969, ordeal, the then-Staff Sgt. Morris to Sunday’s Oscar ceremony. dinner, which singled out received a Distinguished Service Cross in 1970. He said he never Poitier gave a moving tribute Spike Lee, Malcolm Lee (who realized that being black might have kept the higher honor from him. to the future and the past, Lee is Spike’s cousin), Perry and “I never really did worry about decorations,” Morris said. delivered a strong rebuke to Poitier, who received the He got a huge surprise when the Army contacted him in May and what he called Hollywood’s legend award.Poitier, who arranged for Obama to call him at his Cocoa, Fla., home. exclusionary policies and was helped to the stage by “I fell to my knees, I was shocked,” Morris said. “President Obama Perry — who owns his own Perry and received a standing said he was sorry this didn’t happen before. He said this should have studio — implored blacks to ovation, thanked the intimate been done 44 years ago.” break out on their own instead gathering of celebrities and The unusual mass ceremony, scheduled for March 18, will honor of waiting for an open door industry insiders that included veterans, most of Hispanic or Jewish heritage, who already had been from the industry. Jill Scott, Tiki Sumpter, recognized with the Distinguished Service Cross, the nation’s sec- “If they close the door then Tracee Ellis Ross, Shemar ond-highest military award. break a hole in the freaking Moore, John Singleton, David Morris is one of only three of the recipients still living. window,” said Perry to Oyelowo and more.“I never applause. “Find another in my life had such a warm REMINDER way ... there is more than reception,” said the actor, This is a Reunion Year. Your financial support of one path.”The Wednesday the first black man to win an event, held at Perry’s tony Academy Award for best actor. Lincoln HS Alumni Association, Inc. is important. mansion, was conceived to mark what has been a stellar Spike Lee noted the we have asked all our members to give $20 a YEAR to year for black filmmakers in achievements black support our planned activities and operating expenses. cinema, and the black men filmmakers had enjoyed in behind those achievements: 2013 but recalled a similar We look forward to seeing you. Thank you for your Malcolm Lee directed the burst of success a decade box-office hit “The Best Man,” ago and seeing it dwindle: support. Roll mighty Pirates, ROLL !!! Steve McQueen’s “12 Years a “It can’t be another 10-year Slave” is up for nine Academy drought.” Page 2 THE LINCOLN ECHO NEWS YOU CAN USE MARCH 2014

AFRICAN AMERICAN (BLACK) FILM DIRECTORS

Poitier has directed a number of popu- First African American Director lar movies, such as A Piece of the Born Oscar Devereaux Micheaux Action, Uptown Saturday Night, Let’s January 2, 1884 Melvin Van Peebles was born on Au- Do It Again and Stir Crazy. In 2002, Metropolis, Illinois, USA gust 21, 1932 in Chicago, Illinois and thirty-eight years after receiving the Died March 25, 1951 (aged 67) graduated from Wesleyan University. Best Actor Award, Poitier was chosen Charlotte, North Carolina, USA His film Sweet Sweetback’s Baa- by the Academy of Motion Picture Arts Occupation Director, author dasssss Song--made using much of and Sciences to receive an Honorary Spouse(s) his own money with a primarily non- Award, designated “To Sidney Poitier Orlean McCracken (m.1910) professional cast and crew--was a in recognition of his remarkable ac- Alice B. Russell (m.1926) huge success with African American complishments as an artist and as Awards Directors Guild of America Awards audiences and pioneered the “blaxs- a human being. 1986 Golden Jubilee Special Award ploitation” film genre. His son is actor/ On August 12, 2009, Sidney Poitier was awarded the Presi- Hollywood Walk of Fame director Mario Van Peebles. dential Medal of Freedom. 6721 Hollywood Boulevard

Born: John Daniel Singleton January 6, 1968 in Los Angeles, CA Date of Birth 14 September 1969 , New Son of mortgage broker Danny Sin- Orleans, Louisiana, USA gleton and pharmaceutical company Born Shelton Jackson Lee Birth Name Emmitt Perry Jr sales executive Sheila Ward and March 20, 1957 (age 56) Perry was born and raised in New raised in separate households by his Atlanta, Georgia, U.S. Orleans. His mother was a church-goer unmarried parents, John Singleton Alma mater Morehouse College, and took Perry along with her once a attended the Film Writing Program New York University (Tisch School of the Arts) week. His father was a carpenter and at USC after graduating from high Occupation Actor, director, producer, screen- they had a very strained and abusive school in 1986. While studying there, writer relationship, which led Perry to suffer he won three writing awards from the Years active 1977–present from depression as a teenager. university, which led to a contract with Home town Brooklyn, New York In 1991, he was working an office Creative Artists Agency during his Board member of job, when he saw an episode of The sophomore year. Columbia Pictures 40 Acres and a Mule Filmworks Oprah Winfrey Show (1986) discuss- bought his script for Boyz n the Hood Awards numerous awards in mutiple categories ing the therapeutic nature of writing. (1991) and budgeted it at $7 million. Splke has mace over forty films and This inspired him to begin writing and Singleton notes that much of the story documetaries he worked through his bad experiences comes from his own experiences in by writing letters to himself. He adapted South Central LA and credits his par- his letters into a play, “I Know I’ve ents with keeping him off the street Changed”, about domestic abuse. The . rest is history Numerous awards and films.

Born Steven Rodney McQueen 9 October 1969 (age 44) London, England Residence London, England, Am- sterdam, Netherlands Education BA in Fine art Alma mater Hammersmith and West London College, Goldsmiths, University of London Tisch School Occupation Artist, film director, screenwriter Years active 1993–present Style Neo-noir, Experimental, Social realism 12 years a slave his most popular film so far in his career MARCH 2014 WHAT’S GOING ON THE LINCOLN ECHO PAGE 3

AROUND THE NEIGHBORHOOD By Allene Stafford families, communities and maybe even the Harlem Ambassadors Basketball world. There is always time to take action The game time of the high flying slam dunks and define your legacy. Wednesday March and comedy basketball stunts of the Harlem 12th 2014 H@H 1-2 p.m. $7 CCC-CRN- Ambassadors will be announced at the Van 6121. Buren High School Fine Arts Center, 2221 Annual Woman’s Day Pointer Trail East. They will entertain as the We the members of New Morning Star professional show team plays the locally Baptist Church will be celebrating Annual Crawford County Dawgs, This show is Women’s Day, Sunday, March 16th 2:30 p.m. designed for families and appropriate for kids Guest Speakers will be Minister Velda Price of all ages, who may be pulled into the game of Waxahachie, TX. At 11:00 and Minister for some interactive fun. The players sign really do and when/ Join us as we visit with Doris Castleberry of Yukon, OK at 2:30 p.m. autographs after the game. $10 for adults; Sebastian County Coroner Cindy Ducker and Dinner will be served at 12:45-2:00. $5 for children under 12-free for kids 4 and get a view of her day. Wednesday, March 5th Mighty Men of Grace under. For more information, please call: 479 -1-2 p.m. $7-ECC-CRN:6120 The third Annual Mighty Men of Grace will 474 9401. bgcofvb.org Project Compassion Friends conduct their workshop 2014 at Greater Beers of Belgium Tennis Tournament Pilgrim Rest Missionary Baptist Church on Discover the remarkable history of Belgium On March 7-9 , a benefit tournament for March 26th-28 6:30 p.m. Theme: The Marks breweries and their rising popularity in the friends of Project Compassion, an of Immaturity and How to Keep Growing. today’s exploding craft beer industry. Learn organization that provides care and gifts Location-35 South 22nd Street Van Buren, AR about their region’s historic aclectic styles to nursing home residents . Prizes will 479 474 6598. and flavors as well as the brewing processes be awarded to winners, runner-ups and 5x5 Gala for Center of Belgium’s versatile artisanal breweries. consolation winners. First National Bank will for Arts and Education Then immerse yourself in the very beers grill hot dogs and hamburgers on Saturday Enjoy an evening of art as you experience you learned about with a Belgian beer and each player will receive a T-shirt. $38 fine dining, live music, artists working on tasting. Must be 21 or older to register and for singles; $23 each for doubles. 8 a.m.- site and a live auction of artwork created participate. This happens Thursday, March 7p.m. Creekmore Park Tennis Courts, Rogers during the event. Every ticket holder will 6th, (1 session) from 6-8 p.m.) CRN 6115- Avenue and South 31st Street, Fort Smith, AR leave with an original 5x5 work of art. The Blue at UAFS Downtown. 479 782 5333; projectcompassioninc.org Featured artists include Ernest Cialone, Ats/Justamite Club Annual Men’s Day Program John P.Lasater IV, Peter Lippincott, Maggie There will be a Catfish Dinner, March th8 , 10 The King Solomon Missionary Baptist Malloy, Greg Palmer, Jason Sacran, Richard A.M-2 p.m. at the McGill Center Church, invite all to this event, on Sunday, Stevens, Winston Taylor, Suzanne King and 521 North 6th Street. Menu: Catfish, March 9th 2014-3, p.m. The messenger will others.$75. 6 p.m. Fort Smith Convention Spaghetti, Coleslaw, Hush puppies, Dessert be Pastor Andrew Robertson of House of Center, Rogers Avenue and South 9th Street. and drinks. Tickets are $7:00 per plate. For Prayer& Praise including the Church family. Fort Smith, AR 479 474 7767. March 8th . more information contact: Patricia Hardy, They look forward to fellowship with each 479 652 3920. and all of you. Praise Dance Workshop Grape Escapes Ambassador Michael Moussa-Adamo Saint James Missionary Baptist, Music The 12th Annual Grape Escapes is Bost SpeaksLuncheon-Q&A Forum and Art Ministry celebrated 20 years Human Development services’ signature Enjoy your lunch while His Excellency of Praising God through dance with fund raiser. . Grape Escape guests will Michael Moussa-Adamo and staff enlightens Inspirational Dancing Ministries. It is the mingle to the tunes of the Dave Holland our region on the business opportunities, 20th year celebration. Friday, March 28, Ensemble featuring vocalist Tabitha Graves, tourism, arts, culture, global missions and 2014. 8:00-8:00 p.m. Ages 5+. $30/person- while sampling over 350 wines from around entertainment in the beautiful nation of Breakfast, Lunch and Snacks included-5+ the world and tasting delicacies from 13 area Gabon. Date: March 13th Time: 12:00 p.m. hours of praise dance instruction and restaurants and caterers. Dress is bisiness Forum/Q&A 1:00 p.m.until Place: Bigg choreography(Directors are free if registering casual. $100 per ticket. 6-11 p.m. The Hogg Baskets 1000 Garrison Avenue Ft. 5 or more dancers). All dancers will dance in Epicenter by Movie Lounge, 7607 Rogers Smith 479-242 0408. For more information the 20th year celebration IDM Praise Dance Avenue Fort Smith, AR. 479 478 5554. and details of the Ambassador’s itinerary, Concert. Saturday, March 29th 2014-St James March 7th 2014 is the date. please contact Apostle Pat Porter-479 561 Missionary Baptist, 4916 High St. Ft. Smith. Day in the Life: County Coroner 4582; email [email protected] Master Teacher-“Miss K”. Register-Contact A coroner was a position used in medieval Evangelist Debra Shade: 479 782 1840; Brian Smallwood England to represent the ruler of the time, email [email protected] but many of us know the description through Finishing Strong: Bringing To spread the word of happenings film and TV. Who can forget the munchkin Meaning To Your Life coroner declaring the witch dead in the Now is the time to contemplate the meaning Please call 479 783 6830 Wizard of Oz or Quincy M.E. or more of life for you, and not later toward the end recently Crossing Jordan depicting the of life. Let Dr. Charles Saulbery motivate Fax 479 783 6840 coroner in action/ But what does a coroner you into creating a legacy now for your Email [email protected] PAGE 4 THE LINCOLN ECHO EDITORIALS MARCH 2014

POE’S MUTIPLE THOUGHTS THOUGHTS ON MULTIPLE SUBJECTS We Have to doMY S0mething? VIEW Why Not Black Wednesday? By Napoleon Black most disturbing thing is there By DeNay Burris retaliation are we to expect? The Arkansas legislature is is no push back from lead- Our young black youth The black community has to voting to take away insurance ers denouncing the extreme are being gun down by take a collective stance. We from low income people in rhetoric. Doctor King said what Americans consider to have to stand together and the state, their constituents, “ He who passively accepts be their average everyday decide what would be most to keep from implementing evil is as much involved in it citizens, white middle-age effective and agree across the the Affordable Care Act. Let’s as he who helps to perpetrate men in the name of self country to stick to it. Marches suppose the same law was it. He who accepts evil without defense. And Black America are visible for a day and when proposed and implemented by protesting against it is really has had to accept it. Our sons anyone of the past presidents, cooperating with it.” and daughters mean just do you think there would be as much to us as our White this much opposition? I think counterparts. And yet, we are not. reminded on a regular basis Why would the same people that the life of our children is the law helps, vote for the of less value here in America. people trying to destroy it When has, îI was afraid for and against the people who my lifeî every been a strong wrote, implemented and sup- defense for a Black man that port it. It can’t be because of killed a white man? the president, can it? I have preached against the day is over the message is Is your vote based on policy, The Joe Wilson’s , Ted Nu- Black men carrying a gun. But dead. The way to get our point political party, legislative abil- gents, and extremist of this today, I donít know. A Black across and make it stick is ity, or presenting opportuni- ilk are embolden the ordinary man today gets shot with or financially. We have to focus ties for you to improve your people to exhibit their lack of without carrying a weapon. on the goals of this capitalistic life style. What should be civility because no one con- Why, because someone society of today and the way important to all of is not the demns these outbursts. The else was scared. Why do to accomplish this can only adjective before our particular media gives these people a we always have to take the be done financially. What ethnic group or race, we’re all platform and they use these high road when others are I am suggesting is we as Americans, but a level play- examples of outlandish be- doing an injustice to us? Why a collective force make an ing field for all of us and our havior to raise money from are we always the ones that effort to avoid shopping on families. lack minded people. have to accept the hand that Wednesday of every week All the Republicans in the These same people want to someone else is dealing? until things for minorities in house and senate refused to destroy the public education Why do our Black men have American change. And this contribute any ideas to the system and stop the masses to take a back seat when it doesnít have to be the Black construction of the Affordable from voting. Why? No all but a comes to their manhood? Community alone. It can also Care Act and they have tried vocal minority are clinging to And, why do they also have to be all communities of color. to repeal it over forty times. the last vestiges of white male be less than any other man? Until the life of a Colored The President has said dominance. Change is coming I know we as Black man is considered as having he welcomes any ideas that to America. Americans own a very little the same value as a White improve the law but not one We have more in common piece of America. We as manís life, how can any of Republican has the nerve to than we think if we would just a Black people are afraid us ever consider ourselves offer amendments. Are they think. The majority of all peo- of what could happen if we free?????? legislators or agitators? We ple don’t believe it is neces- step out of line. What kind of can hire agitators for a lot less sary to carry a gun to church, than $174k plus expenses! the grocery store, the park If the constitution can be etc. Most of us ant our kids to The most common way amended, so can the ACA. Its live a better life than we have not all bad. and we try and give them the people give up their power It has been said we are a opportunity to do so. nation of laws. The problem We all are gratified when is by thinking they don’t have any. comes when the laws are un- people we have assisted in just and the people adminis- their early life blossom into tering them are corrupt. Lady stable adults, knowing we Alice Walker justice is supposedly blind. contributed positively to their Meaning the law is adminis- development. tered evenly without regard If we leave behind a legacy to status, race creed or color. of helping people to help The problem occurs with themselves we will have the sighted people who ad- contributed to a better world. DUTY & DUTY ATTORNEYS AT LAW minister justice. Bishop Fulton J. Sheen said Extreme voices are receiv- ‘if everyone lit just one candle, ing a great deal of publicity what a bright world this would CELEBRATING 102ND ANNIVERSARY 2013 and some support but the be.” AB, KB & D peace. GENERAL INFORMATION

The Lincoln Echo, USPS 240, is published each month at 115 N 10th in SOCIAL SECURITY DISABILITY - THAT’S ALL WE DO Fort. Smith, Arkansas. Napoleon Black is the Publisher. It is entered as periodic matter at the USPO in Fort Smith. SUBSCRIPTIONS PER YEAR: $25 per year nationwide, Single copy $.50 POSTMASTER: Send all ad- dress changes to The Lincoln Echo. Our address is P.O. Box 771, Fort Smith, Arkansas, 72902. Email: [email protected] DAVIS DUTY - FORMER SOCIAL SECURITY JUDGE Phone: 479-783-6830 Fax: 479-6840 Correction Policy

The Lincoln Echo will print corrections of any errors published in the news- paper. The correction will be made ASAP after it has been brought to the attention of the Echo Staff. JOHN DUTY - DISABILITY ADVOCATE The Lincoln Echo Napoleon Black Allene Stafford Publisher Office Manager

Denay Burris Cecil Greene, Jr Advertising Manager Executive V,P. 479-785-3889 909 SOUTH 20TH STREET

Allen, Kenneth & DeVaughn Black Inspiration “The Voice That Brings the Community Together” Toll Free 877-785-3889 Fort Smith, AR 72901 Established June, 1992 NEWS & COMMENTARY FEBRUARY 2014 THE LINCOLN ECHO PAGE 5

AN EDUCATOR’S GREETINGS FROM

College POINTand Career Readiness OF Takes VIEW Many Forms THE MAYOR On Thursday, March completed his master’s Benny L. Gooden preparation for fields in which 13, the City of Fort Smith degree in international Superintendent job opportunities abound. As will host a reception for relations and communications of Public Schools a bonus, students completing Michael Moussa-Adamo, at Boston University in 1989. Fort Smith, AR WATC courses can also earn Ambassador Extraordinary In addition to Boston, he The phrase which is frequently concurrent college credit which and Plenipotentiary, The has also lived in Phoenix cited as synonymous with can give them a head start in a Gabonese Republic to the the goals for high school United States of America. graduates—College and Career Everyone is invited Ready—has several implications to attend the reception which parents and students which will be held from should consider. 5:30 p.m. until 7:00 p.m. While most understand the at the Riverfront Glass college readiness component Pavilion, 100 N. B. Street. of the concept, sometimes the Ambassador Moussa will career component is thought make brief comments about of as separate from college Gabon at 6 p.m. preparation. In fact, both these According to his official concepts are similar and good biography, Ambassador preparation for one may also Moussa served five years and currently resides in support the other. as a Congressman (Deputy) Washington, D.C. He has Discussions of college college program if that is the in the Gabonese National worked with the World Wildlife readiness usually include an direction they choose. Assembly Parliament, where Fund at its Washington emphasis on the importance of WATC offers courses in he served as spokesman headquarters. He was also enrolling in rigorous Advanced ten main areas including: for the parliamentary a teaching assistant in the Placement (AP) ® coursework. Automotive, CADD, Criminal committee on foreign affairs African Studies Center and a Students understand that success Justice, Early Childhood and defense. He has also research assistant studying on AP courses can gain college Education, Electronics served as special advisor the economics of the Pacific credit which will give them a Technology, Engineering, to the President of Gabon; Rim countries at the Center “jump start” on college. Parents Graphic Design, Health Sciences, chief of staff to the Minister of for International Relations understand that credit for college Information Technology, and National Defense; diplomatic and Communication, both at earned in high school with AP Welding Technology. Many counselor in the Ministry Boston University. courses represents a significant of these career choices lead of Foreign Affairs; head of He is married and the reduction in the total cost of directly into university-level the Department of Tourism, father of six children, including college. This is real money in programs while others offer Arts, Culture and Sports; and three attending colleges in the the family budget. qualification for direct entry into chief of the communication United States. What many students and the job market. Students have and information technology Please plan to attend parents may not understand is the best of both worlds—College department in the office of the the reception for Ambassador the close relationship of the Preparation and/or Career President. Moussa, 5:30-7:00 p.m., preparation for college and the Preparation. This is truly a Over the course of ten Thursday, March 13, at the pathway to a career. Access “win-win” for students, for their years, the Ambassador has Riverfront Glass Pavilion, 100 to careers with great futures in parents and for the community. lived and worked throughout North B Street. terms of growth opportunities Enrollment in the WATC the United States. He and compensation can parallel program is made through the the preparation which students student’s high school—just pursue for college. Taking as enrolling in any other high HONORING DAISY BATES rigorous courses which reflect school course. Classes held at the demands of many high- the Baldor Center on the UAFS Daisy Bates who fought for paying careers involves study not campus will generally occupy liberty for all. significantly different from work about one-half of the student’s Born in 1914 in Union students do when planning for school day. Other classes County, Daisy Bates was direct entrance into the college. pursued for graduation are on the raised by family friends A great opportunity for local student’s home school campus. after losing her mother to students which blends the Participation in athletics, music a race-related crime. By “College and Career Readiness” or other school activities is not the 1940s, Mrs. Bates was concept is enrollment in the interrupted. married to L.C. Bates, living Western Arkansas Technical College and Career Readiness in Little Rock, and working Center during a student’s junior is the goal for every high school at the coupleís paper, and senior years. Located on graduate. Student destinations Arkansas State Press, a the campus of the University of may vary, but every student must leading source for news and Arkansas at Fort Smith, WATC pursue a rigorous course of study information about the civil gives high school students to be ready for either. The choice rights movement. Ten years from Fort Smith and western made by each student and his/her By Senator Mark Pryor later, Mrs. Bates was elected Arkansas access to great career parents will determine success in Honoring Daisy Lee Gatson President of the Arkansas college or career! Bates A Woman Who Knew State Conference of NAACP the Meaning of “Do Justly, branches, from where she Love Kindness, and Walk became the spokesperson Humbly” and advocate for the Little At a time when our society Rock Nine. expected women to remain In many ways, I believe that quietly in the background, Mrs. Bates lived the words Mrs. Daisy Bates took center of Micah 6:8, ìto do justly, stage in the fight for freedom and love kindness, and to and equality. In the fall of walk humbly with thy God.î 1972, when I enrolled in the Her courage and conviction Little Rock School District, not only influenced me, but I saw the start of city-wide the lives of countless others busingóa change which came in our state and nation. With about in large part because Daisy Gatson Bates Day and of the courage of Daisy Bates her 100th birthday this year, and the Little Rock Nine. Iíve introduced a resolution to This experienceóamong honor her leadership and help othersóshaped my us remember her legacy as appreciation for the civil rights true American heroine. movement and those like Thank you, Mrs. Bates.

A man who won’t die for something is not fit to live. Martin Luther King, Jr. PAGE 6 THE LINCOLN ECHO HERITAGE MARCH 2014

PRESIDENT OBAMA’S INITIATIVE to the recent advisory guidelines the White House with Obama. Department of Education wrote and Overall, White House officials say sent to states on reducing school black and Hispanic men face five suspensions. Black students in particular particular challenges that often lead to are disproportionately expelled from their underachievement: a lack of family school, and the Obama administration support, such as an absent father, in their believes that providing school districts early years; falling far behind their peers and states some of the best practices to in their ability to read, often as early avoid suspensions will keep black boys as third grade; being suspended from and men in school and therefore improve school; being arrested or spending time their learning. in jail; and lacking the mentoring and Just as importantly, conducting a study structure that would help them finish high By Perry Bacon, Jr and providing advice to states costs few school or apply to college. The “My Brother’s Keeper” initiative to federal dollars, as the administration Girls of color face many of these help young black and Hispanic men that does not intend to ask Congress for same problems, but at least right now, President Obama will unveil on Thursday much funding to support “My Brother’s they are overcoming them at higher is a project he will continue even after he Keeper.” rates than their male counterparts. leaves office, administration officials say. The second part of the initiative is According to Department of Education Until now, Obama has said little a partnership with foundations and statistics, the broader trend of women about his post-presidency plans. businesses, who the administration says outperforming men in education is even But White House officials say the have already pledged $200 million over more pronounced among blacks. About president recognizes that the persistent the next five years and could give even two thirds of the black students getting underachievement of black and Hispanic more. associate, bachelor or masters degrees men is not a problem that will be solved White House officials want these are women, while only about a third are quickly and that reducing inequality for outside groups to study programs that black men. disadvantaged people was one of the have already worked to help men of This initiative is also part of a broader main causes of Obama’s life even before color in some cities and states and figure project Obama is on to reshape his he entered politics and will remain so out ways to expand those programs legacy. After a first term defined largely after he leaves the Oval Office. throughout the country. by recovering from the recession and This work is “a moral, social “None of these disparities we pointed passing the national health care law, in responsibility that they feel will transcend to are things that can’t be addressed,” the last year the president has pushed a the time that he is president,” said Valerie said Cecilia Muñoz , Obama’s top number of policies to address issues that Jarrett, one of Obama’s top advisers, domestic policy adviser. “We know what disproportionately affect minorities. His referring to both the president and first works.” administration is trying to reduce the drug lady Michelle Obama. Magic Johnson Enterprises, the sentences of non-violent criminals, target On Thursday, the president will company the former Lakers guard runs, more federal funding to persistently low- formally announce the initiative, which McDonald’s and the National Basketball income urban and rural communities and has two parts. The first is Obama Association are among the businesses fight laws that bar convicted felons from ordering all federal agencies to look at working with the administration, as well voting as well as provisions that require a what ways they can help support men as non-profits like the Ford Foundation. photo ID to vote. of color. Administration officials said Johnson and NBA Commissioner Adam they are looking for policies similar Silver will attend Thursday’s event at the AFRICAN - AMERICAN HISTORY SHOULD NOT BE SEPARATE By Mathew Fulton how they built America while of history that he was a black history with the current curric- A study of American history in chains. We need to educate man. His advances could be ulum of American history of a is essential to the survival of our young people how the taught right along with the whole would go great lengths the nation. History teaches black man who volunteered for discoveries of Thomas Edi- in helping to end the racial us how we became a nation, the Union Army was discrimi- son and Henry Ford, with a division lines that exist in how the nation grew, and how nated against by white officers, little biography about each of United States society. Morgan it became the most prosper- just as the Irish regiments fight- them. Simply mentioning that Freeman puts it best in a 60 ous country in the world. Black ing for the North did. It is also he was born a slave and put- Minutes interview. “You’re go- Americans contributed a great important to teach how black ting a picture of him in text- ing to relegate my history to a deal toward each of these, men also served honorably books would be sufficient for month?” “I don’t want a black and their contributions need wearing Confederate uniforms, school kids to figure out that history month. Black history is to be told. However, the idea and usually received better he was black. Mentioning him American history.” Mike Wal- that there should be an entire treatment than their Northern right along with white inven- lace then asks the question month devoted to “African- counterparts did. tors shows that they all did “How are we going to get rid American” history or singling Maybe if we did this then the great things, instead of giving of racism?” Morgan Freeman out “African-American achieve- population of the United States him a special mention in his- quickly replied, “You stop talk- ments” is divisive and does not (especially the Northern states, tory that basically says “Hey, ing about it. I’m going to stop help the nation understand that but many Southerners are he was black and still did all calling you a white man. And the history of the United States turning their back on their own this stuff!.” I’m going to ask you to stop is shared by everyone, not just past) would not have quite as Combining the current calling me a black man.” certain groups. hateful view of the Confederate school curriculum on black First, the hyphenating of States of America. After all, the Americans must come to a South was just about to deploy halt. It singles out people as black combat regiments in- different and ensures that they stead of simply using black sol- remember that they are dif- diers as construction workers ferent than “White America”. and in other non-combat roles. Everyone gets a hyphen who The South had lost much of did not come from Western its fighting men young and old Europe. Well, Americans with in the war. Had black soldiers family who came from Ireland been able to keep them fight- and Italy get one too. After all, ing and finally turn Northern they were pretty discriminated sentiment against continued against in the country’s early fighting then Southern leaders history. You tell someone they may have been more willing to cannot just be an American accept Robert E. Lee’s notion without a special qualifier and about freeing slaves. they can never really be a part George Washington Carver of the group. made great advances agricul- That being said, it is impor- ture and is credited with invent- tant that the story of the black ing peanut butter. This certainly man and woman be told right needs to be talked about , along with the rest of Ameri- as he was a great American can history. We need to teach inventor. It does not need to be how most came as slaves and mentioned in a special section NEWS & COMMENTARY MARCH 2014 THE LINCOLN ECHO PAGE 7

THE MUSIC CORNER Musicians Foundation. This union hall, which still stands today as a National Historic La mark, remains open on weekends for all-night jam sessions. The Pendergast political machine collapsed after Tom Pendergast was indicted on tax eva- sion, reform elements took over and nightclubs and cabarets shut down. Jobs for musicians dried up and the bands took to the road. By 1942, with the turmoil of World War II, many of the musicians had been drafted. Finally, by 1944, the great Kansas City jazz era slowed down, but it didn’t totally die out. Today,jazz still thrives in Kansas City. In the history of Kansas City music, blues formed the basic vocabulary for KC-style jazz. The blues originated as a rural Black vocal music with a style improvised to the rhythms of work. That early rhythm evolved and gave birth to the blues, and eventually to Kansas City jazz, a kind of blues that jumps with a jazz sound. In fact, the city’s first jazz recording by Bennie Moten in 1923 was “Evil Mama Blues.” Pictured above: The Jay Mcshann Band Change will not come The Lincoln Echo is starting a new if we wait for some other person series of articles about Blues, Jazz, or some other time. Popular and Classical music. We will We are the ones we’ve been waiting for. start with the pioneers of each genre We are the change that we seek. and work our way to present day art- Barack Obama ist. Your input and feedback will be greatly appreciated. Never believe that a few caring people Kansas City is world renowned for its can’t change the world. rich jazz and blues legacy. Jazz in Kan- For, indeed, that’s all who ever have. sas City was born in the 1920s and Margaret Mead continues today in clubs and events held throughout the city. More than 20 area nightclubs feature jazz on a regular basis. The roots of Kansas City jazz are quite varied. Blues singers of the 1920s and ragtime music greatly influenced the mu- sic scene. Settings such as dance halls, cabarets and speakeasies fostered the development of this new musical style. In the early days, many jazz groups were smaller dance bands with three to six pieces. By the mid-1920s, the big band became the most common. Territory bands also had an influential develop- ment on jazz. Many great musicians got their start in these bands, traveling up to 1,000 miles between jobs. While jazz began in the 1920s with a bang, it flourished in the 1930s, mainly as a result of political boss Tom Pendergast. During prohibition, he allowed alcohol to flow in Kansas City. As an entertainment center, Kansas City had no equal during these dry times. This “wide-open” town image attracted displaced musicians from everywhere in mid-America. Throughout the Depres- sion, Kansas City bands continued to play while other bands across the nation folded. The city was shielded from the worst of the Depression due to an early form of New Deal-style public works proj- ects that provided jobs, and affluence, that kept the dance-oriented nightlife in town swinging. Only in Kansas City did jazz continue to flourish. At one time, there were more than 100 night clubs, dance halls and vaudeville houses in Kansas City regu- larly featuring jazz music. Legends like Count Basie, Andy Kirk, Joe Turner,Hot Lips Page and Jay McShann all played in Kansas City. A saxophone player named Charlie Parker began his ascent to fame here in his hometown in the 1930s. Kansas City’s 12th Street became nation- ally known for its jazz clubs, gambling parlors and brothels, earning the city the moniker, “The Paris of the Plains.” At its height, 12th Street was home to more than 50 jazz clubs. Just six blocks to the north, jazz also flourished at 18th & Vine, which became nationally respected as the epicenter of the city’s African-Ameri- can community. Another great outcome of Kansas City jazz was the jam session. After perfor- mances, musicians would get together to exchange ideas and experiment with new methods of playing. The best local and out of town musicians would take part in these jam sessions that lasted all night and well into the next day. Many downtown clubs were the scene of jam activity as well as the Mutual PAGE 8 THE LINCOLN ECHO LOCAL NEWS MARCH 2014

OBITUARIES MARCH BIRTHDAYS 2 18 Lance Deas Carl D. Reed Bennie M. Gunn Michael Franklin Sue Jeffers Ronald Reeves 19 Loise H. Turner 3 Lynette Turner Susie Ransfer Louise Robinson 20 Trynnel Templeton 4 Barbara Williams Hall 21 Richard Driver Shatanna Lee

6 22 Kristoff Sterling Crystal Eckels Aron Smith Lathel Wise

7 23 Mohammed Matlock Tyrone Cole Valerie A. Cottrell 8 Jennifer Jones Cleo Hill-Baker Brianna Wilkins Theodore Dodson 111 Johann Hill 24 Gloria D. Starks Freddie Harris Roy L.Hensley, Jr. 9 Mary Hervey Rev. J.Y. Williams, Jr. 25 William Burnett Craig, lovingly known as “Billy,” was born 10 LaTonya Starks September 19, 1936, to the late Burnett Marion and Sarah Lynn Roebuck Courtney Starks Elizabeth Rraig in Fort Smith, Arkansas. Rhonda Royal Robbie Leonard Raised in a christian home, Billy was christened and joined Mallaalieu United Methodist Church when he was very young. 11 27 He actively participated in various youth programs and was Ashlee Cottrell Helen Briggs ever present there with his grandmother, the late Allie Rainey. Andrea Franklin Priscilla McIver He was a faithful and devoted member of St. Francis Mission- Betty Wright ary Baptist Church in Detroit. Eddie Slaughter Billy attended Lincoln High School in Fort Smith and played William Madison football for three years , proudly wearing jersey number 49 all 28 three years. Billy graduated in 1953 and immediately enlisted 12 Barbara Cheek in the navy, where he served honorably for three years. Darian Jones Donald Webb Upon returning to Fort Smith, Billy met and married the late Susie Howard Shinault Billy Faye Switzer. To this union they were blessed with three 29 children, Burnett, Ronald and June. 13 Peggy Gary With loving peace, our Heavenly Father called our beloved Elizabeth Dodson Austin William Burnett Craig to eternal rest. He peacefully departed 30 this life on Tuesday, November 12, 2013, at Botsford Hospital 14 Gina Stafford in Farmington Hills, MI. Ella N. Freeman Connie Alexander Billy leaves to cherish his loving memory; his daughter, June Jarone Batson Janelle Walker Craig Coleman; his sons, Burnett Craig, Jermaine Jones and 15 Jernard Jones; his sister June Craig Robb; lifelong friends Fred Michael C. Davis 31 Dailey of Chatsworth, CA and Monte Cook of Oklahoma City, Chelsia Willis OK. and a host of grandchildren, nieces nephews, uncle and 17 Geraldine Williams aunt. Anthony Atkins Callie M. Driver In addition to his parents his son, Ronald Craig and sister Jewel A. Edinger Linda Craig Barnes preceded Billy in death.

Janice Marie Porter, 53, was born on July 4, 1960 in New Orleans, LA. She departed this life February 16, 2014, Jacksonville, AR. She was preceded in death by her mother, Marguerite Sanders; father, Roosevelt Porter. She leaves to cherish her memory: husband, Ray Andrews; children, Royce and Rory Porter; siblings, Bishop Apostle Patricia, Rosalind, Reginald and Kenneth Porter; a host of family and friends.

Special thanks to Ft. Smith, AR for receiving us after Hurrican Katrina, Rita Mercy Hospital, Sparks Hospital, Covington Court Nursing Home, Cornerstone Healthcare Center of Jacksonville, AR and Tasha Forrest. Funeral Services will be held Saturday March 1, 2014, at Trumpet of Truth Ministry, 3116 St. Claude Ave, New Orleans, LA. Services entrusted to Robinson Mortuary, 4511 East Broadway St., NorthLittle Rock (501) 374-0111. Service YouCan Trust MARCH 2014 POLITICS THE LINCOLN ECHO PAGE 9

SENATOR BOOZMAN’S GOVERNOR BEEBE’S COLUMN warmer days ahead COLUMN Throughout this winter, a vacation purposes, college Discussions at the Capitol instance, there was a 10 good portion of the state has students may also be con- have centered around the percent decrease in the been covered in ice and snow templating summer intern- Arkansas Private Option these unnecessary use of antibiotics and the air has been bitterly ship opportunities. For those past two weeks. However, to treat the respiratory cold. This long brutal winter students, there are summer our State’s other major infections, because most of left many of us eagerly await- internship opportunities in any health-care initiative, created those were viral. There was ing Punxsutawney Phil’s ap- of my seven offices across before the Affordable Care also a five percent increase pearance on Groundhog Day. Arkansas and in my Washing- Act, continues to produce in the use of strep tests to Unfortunately, for those of us ton, D.C. office. impressive results. When diagnose sore throats. tired of the cold weather, he During the summer we of- Arkansas’s innovative plan to While the providers did not bring news that spring fer two five-week sessions in lower health-care who showed is on the way. Instead, Punx- Washington; the 2014 session costs and improve improvements will sutawney Phil saw his shadow dates are May 27th – June the quality of care receive incentive and predicted the winter 27th and June 30th – August began in 2012, it payments, other weather will linger on longer 1st. The deadline to apply is was already the providers now this year. Friday, March 15, 2014. object of national owe money It’s only natural that all of Working in a Senate of- attention. Now, to the State. this cold weather would have fice allows interns to experi- we have mounting These penalties us dreaming of the warmer ence what they’ve learned evidence to show were assessed days ahead. Planning spring in school, acquiring firsthand that the Arkansas because the break and summer travel can knowledge of the legisla- Payment providers’ average help take our minds off the tive process and constituent Improvement cost for treating cold and remind us that it too services responsibilities. It’s a Initiative is working as these infections was above shall pass. great opportunity to do re- designed. the range deemed acceptable Whether you’re planning a warding work on behalf of the The initiative rewards according to established quick spring break getaway people of Arkansas health-care providers who fee schedules. The money or a longer summer vaca- By assisting my state staff, furnish patients with high- from these penalties will be tion, you should consider in an office like the one I have quality care at appropriate put back into the Medicaid Washington, D.C as a travel in Fort Smith, interns have the costs. Most of our Medicaid program. destination. It’s a great town opportunity to gain firsthand clients are now in a Patient Our long-term goal is to to visit and my staff can help knowledge about how a Sena- Centered Medical Home build a sustainable system you make the most out of your tor’s office provides constitu- where the primary care that rewards good care time here. ent services, interacts with clinician has assumed outcomes for Arkansans If you’re interested in visit- the community and serves as responsibility for improving through team-based ing our nation’s capital, my a liaison to the Washington, quality and managing approaches. When primary- office can help you arrange D.C. office. costs. For select conditions, care providers actively tours of federal landmarks. Interns in the Washington, performance is measured encourage patients to use We can request tickets to tour D.C. office have an opportu- in different “episodes” of preventive services, patients the White House, the Su- nity to learn about the legisla- care, which encompass the can better manage chronic preme Court and the Library tive process and the federal treatment a patient receives diseases on their own or avoid of Congress. While I can’t government by working close- for a particular illness or them all together. Serious guarantee tickets for all of ly with the legislative, com- disease from the time of first illnesses and recurring these tours, I will do my best munications and constituent diagnosis through recovery. symptoms lead to costly to get you tickets for the sites services staff members. Insurers pay for these treatments, and can often be you’re interested in seeing. Along with this incredible episodes of care, rather than prevented. When patients If you’re looking for a more experience, interns in my for individual treatments receive appropriate follow-up personal tour, my staff would office will receive academic per procedure. This shift is care after hospitalizations, be happy to guide you through credit for their work. All intern- intended to reduce duplication the likelihood of readmissions the halls of the U.S. Capitol. ships in my office are unpaid of tests and treatments, can be dramatically reduced, The building where our na- and candidates who are cho- saving money while reducing which also results in better tion’s laws are made is truly sen for the Washington, D.C. patient discomfort and health and lower costs for breathtaking. From the sculp- office will be responsible for inconvenience. everyone. tures that reside in Statuary paying their travel and living The program currently Our initiative is the first Hall to the murals adorning expenses. consists of 14 different of its kind in the nation. We the walls and ceilings— Our internship program is episodes of care, including addressed the inefficiencies especially the “Apotheosis of open to all area college stu- asthma, congestive and costs in our healthcare Washington” in the Rotunda— dents, regardless of major. heart failure, and hip and system before considering there is much great art to see Candidates must complete knee replacement. Five expanded coverage. Our early and history to learn while tour- at least two years of college more specific episodes success will only increase ing the U.S. Capitol. It truly work prior to their internship are in development. The attention toward this approach is an honor and a blessing to and must either be a U.S. citi- performance review for the as a potential model for other have been given the oppor- zen or are in the U.S. legally. first episode, upper respiratory states. tunity to work here, and we If you’re interested or know infections, just ended, and the As new episodes of care are enjoy showing the Capitol, in someone who would be an results are encouraging. added, Arkansas will continue all her glory, off to Arkansans. asset to our office you can More than 40 percent putting a dent in the enormous Additionally, when Con- find our online internship ap- of primary-care providers national cost of unnecessary gress is in session, the House plication at www.boozman. improved their quality and and/or redundant medical and Senate galleries are open senate.gov. For more informa- efficiency, according to the services. These savings will and you can watch the debate tion, please contact my assis- Arkansas Department of come not only with better by obtaining a free pass from tants Clermon Acklin in Wash- Human Services. These health care for Arkansans my office. ington D.C. at (202) 224-4843 medical providers are also now, but could help build a And while some are dream- or Stacey Mattingly in Lowell trending toward treatments path toward better health care ing of warmer weather for at (479) 725-0400. that are more in line with throughout our country for the industry best practices. For future Insanity in individuals is

something rare - The surest way to corrupt a youth

is to instruct him to hold but in groups, parties, in higher esteem those

nations and epochs, who think alike

it is the rule. than those who think differently.

Friedrich Nietzsche Friedrich Nietzsche

PAGE 10 THE LINCOLN ECHO HERITAGE FEBRUARY 2014

Researched by FRANKEmma C. also hadKNAULS one son, Thurman SebastianFAMILY County, Arkansas. Evelyn E. Tonia Holleman Knauls, Jr. Lester Ray Knauls, twin brother The Knauls Surname is not a Lettie Knauls was born 1911 in of Esther, was also born January common name and throughout the Sebastian County, Arkansas. She 14, 1922 in Sebastian County, years the spelling has been Nalls, married John Johnson on October Arkansas and died June 10, Nall, Knowles, etc.; A very difficult 25, 1929. They were parents of 8 1976 in Fort Smith, Arkansas. surname to research. children; Ezel, Eugene, Clemente Lester was married twice. His Sue, Billie F., Doris, William and first marriage was to Flora Evelyn John. Winton and they were married April Meda Knauls was born July 23, 1943 in Fort Smith. Flora was 16, 1915 in Sebastian County, the daughter of Ollice Winton and Arkansas and died October 22, Merda “Mertie” Brewer. Lester’s 1996 in Sebastian County. Meda second marriage was to Dorothy was married three times. Meda Mae Madison on January 13, 1957 and Lewis Barker were the in LeFlore County, Oklahoma. parents of James Knauls who was Lester and Flora were parents of The Knauls Family originated nicknamed “Tootie”. Wanda, Leslie, Elaine and Greylan. in Fayette County, Alabama and Meda and William Floyd Johnson Lester and Dorothy Madison migrated to Sebastian County. It were married on June 22, 1935 in Knauls children were Elaine, appears the Knauls men were Coal Sebastian County, Arkansas. He Velda, Phillip, Lester Jr., James, Miners and Frank’s World War I was the son of William and Lula Tony, Michael, Thurman and Curtis Draft Registration Card stated he Johnson. He was born November Wayne Knauls [now deceased.] worked for the Central Coal and 17, 1915 in Ozark, Johnson Althea Knauls was born Coke Company in Huntington, County, Arkansas. William and September 14, 1925 in Huntington, Sebastian County, Arkansas. Meda were parents of Clementine, Sebastian County, Arkansas and At the present time, Frank’s Shirley, Saundra Sue, Patricia, and died January 2, 2004 in Omaha, parents have not been documented Ronald. William passed away on Nebraska. She married Clarence and it appears that Lucinda August 27, 1978 and is buried at Wimbish. Clarence was born in Knauls White maybe his Mother. Washington Cemetery, Fort Smith, 1920. Her second marriage was to Research will be needed to verify Sebastian County, Arkansas. Billy Frank Noon, Jr. on November this statement. Frank Cesar Meda married Howard Lawrence 12, 1955 in Sebastian County, Knauls, Sr. was born in Fayette Williams. Howard was born Arkansas. Her third marriage was County, Alabama on March 9, November 30, 1916 and died to Billy Simpson on October 26, 1874. He married Rosa Bradford, December 30, 1985. He is buried 1965 in LeFlore County, Oklahoma. daughter of Daniel Bradford and at US National Cemetery in Section Clarence and Althea Wimbish Lettie Phillips Bradford. Rosa 14, Grave 889. Howard served children were Sylvia, Gregory, Bradford was one of 8 siblings; in the Korean War. Meda and Jacqueline [deceased], Harry and Lula, Ollias, Daniel Jr., Mart J., Howard were parents of Brenda Cynthia. My thanks to Cynthia Mettey, Ora and Bessie Bradford. Williams. for helping with the Knauls Family Frank and Rosa Knauls Ollie Knauls was born September History and to Sherry Toliver for were parents of 11 children. 24, 1917 in Sebastian County, introducing us, thank you. Governor Knauls was the first Arkansas and died June 11, 1974 Billy and Althea Knauls born in 1905 in Sebastian County, in Sebastian County. He married Simpson children were; Tammy Arkansas. Governor married Dannie Mae Austin June 5, 1964 and Kim. Gladys Owens on May 17, 1925 in in LeFlore County, Oklahoma. Frank Knauls, Jr. was born Sebastian County. Gladys was the Dannie was born April 9, 1922 in September 14, 1925 in Huntington, daughter of Frank Owens. She was Sebastian County, Arkansas and Arkansas and died April 14, 1995 born 1905 in Oklahoma and died died March 25, 2004. Ollie served in Los Angeles, California. He February 16, 1999 in King County, in the US Army during World War married Ruth Martin August Washington. They were parents of II and is buried at US National 13, 1946 in Sebastian County, Evelyn, Clint Nell, Gertrude, Paul Cemetery, Fort Smith, Sebastian Arkansas. Frank and Ruth’s C., Gladine, Lettie M. and Loretta County, Arkansas in Section 14, children were: Frank Cesar Knauls Knauls. Grave 6. Dannie is also buried III, Ruthie M., and Rashelle. Thurman Knauls was born 1907 with her husband, Ollie at the Jeanetta Knauls was born in Huntington, Sebastian County, National Cemetery. Ollie and November 4, 1931 in Huntington Arkansas. Thurman was married Dannie had several children. I do and died August 15, 1993 in San twice. His first marriage was to not have a complete listing and at Diego, California. Her children Margie Gentry on May 27, 1926 a later date write more about the took the Surname of Knauls and in Sebastian County, Arkansas. Knauls Family. were; Ava Diane, Carlotta “Polly”, Margie was the daughter of Tom Esther Mae Knauls was born Mitzi Denise [deceased], Harvey Gentry and Lela Jones. Thurman’s January 14, 1922 in Sebastian Knauls and Brent Jackson. second marriage was to Emma County, Arkansas. She was What a pleasure it was in Ferguson on September 21, 1930 the Mother of Victor Knauls and researching and writing about the in Sebastian County, Arkansas. Regina Anderson. Regina’s father Knauls Family. Cynthia and I are Thurman and Margie had one was William E. Anderson. William still researching Frank Knauls, Sr. son, Billie Knauls. Thurman and and Esther married in 1954 in in Fayette County, Alabama.

Diversity on the bench is critical. Parents and schools should As practitioners, you need judges who ‘get it!’ place great emphasis on the idea We need judges who understand that it is all right to be different. what discrimination feels like. Racism and all the other ‘isms’ grow We need judges who understand from primitive tribalism, what inequality feels like. the instinctive hostility against those of another We need judges who understand tribe, race, religion, nationality, the subtleties of unfair treatment class or whatever. You are a lucky child and who are willing to call it out when they see it! if your parents taught you to accept diversity.

Debbie Wasserman Schultz Roger Ebert MARCH 2014 HERITAGE THE LINCOLN ECHO PAGE 11

SAMUEL LEE KOUNTZ Researched by the patient after surgery allowed the body Napoleon Black to accept the new organ. Samuel Lee Kountz was a classmate In 1966 Kountz joined the faculty at of my brother Allen Black, Jr at AM&N Stanford University Hospital and Medical college. Allen always talked about School and in 1967 he became the Kountzs’ determination, judge for chief of the kidney transplant service at yourself. University of California at San Francisco Renowned surgeon and pioneer in (UCSF). There he worked with Folker organ transplants, Samuel Lee Kountz Belzer to create the Belzer kidney was born on August 20, 1930 to Samuel perfusion machine. This innovation Kountz, Sr. and Emma Montague. He kept kidneys alive for 50 hours after was raised in the town of Lexa, one being removed from the donor. Through of the most impoverished areas of Kountz’s involvement at UCSF, the Arkansas. Without a doctor in the town, institution’s kidney transplant research Kountz’s father often assumed the role center became one the best in the of nurse and his mother was a midwife. country. Kountz also created the Center Their work sparked Kountz’s desire to for Human Values at UCSF, to discuss though; with some hard work he ended become a physician. ethical issues concerning transplants. up graduating third in his class in 1952 Kountz worked his way through high The State University of New York, During his residency at Stanford school despite scarce educational Downstate Medical Center in Brooklyn University School of Medicine, Kountz resources. He then attended Arkansas recruited Kountz in 1972 to become the focused on surgery, becoming particularly Agricultural, Mechanical and Normal professor and chair of the department of interested in kidney transplants. Up until College (now the University of Arkansas surgery. He accepted, saying he wanted 1960 such transplants were impossible at Pine Bluff) and graduated with a to improve medical care for African unless the donor and recipient were B.S. in 1952. He received a M.S. in Americans in urban areas like Brooklyn. twins. Transplants between those more biochemistry from the University of Kountz’s pioneering work has made distantly related or unrelated ended in Arkansas and then became the first kidney transplants fairly routine today. rejection by the transplant recipient. African American admitted into the He won numerous awards and was In 1961 Kountz and Roy Cohn, another medical school there, from which elected president of the Society of leading surgeon, preformed the first graduated in 1958. That same year he University Surgeons in 1974. Kountz successful kidney transplant between married Grace Akin. The couple had also travelled the world to share his two people who were close relatives three children. expertise. Unfortunately, in 1977 he but not twins. Over the next decade However, his start in higher education contracted an unknown disease while Kountz researched the process of kidney hit a snag when he didn’t have the in South Africa, which caused serious transplants on dogs. He discovered that grades to get initially into the AM&N brain damage. Samuel Kountz died on monitoring blood flow into the new kidney College of Arkansas was forced to take December 23, 1981 at his home in Kings and administering methylprednisolone to remedial classes. That didn’t stop him Point, New York. He was 51. My mother said I must always be intolerant of ignorance but understanding of illiteracy. That some people, unable to go to school, SOMEDAY WE’LL ALL BE FREE were more educated and more intelligent than college professors. By Donnie Hathaway

Maya Angelou

Hang onto the world as it spins around Just don’t let the spin get you down Things are moving fast Hold on tight and you will last

Keep your self-respect, your man, the pride Get yourself in gear, keep your stride Never mind your fears Brighter days will soon be here

Take it from me someday, we’ll all be free, yeah

Keep on walking tall, hold your head up high And lay your dreams right up to the sky Sing your greatest song And you’ll keep, going, going on

Take it from me someday, we’ll all be free, yeah Hey, just wait and see someday we’ll all be free, yeah Take it from me, someday we’ll all be free

It won’t be long, take it from me someday we’ll all be free Take it from me, take it from me, take it from me someday we’ll all be free PAGE 12 THE LINCOLN ECHO NEWS MARCH 2014

WHERE DO WE STAND?

Andre’ Good, City Director Ward 2 and reminder of his and all Rangers dedication and sacrifices. The monument will be a recreation of documented pictures of Just a quick reminder that Gen. Darby riding a 1942 Harley Davidson WLA during World the Where Do We Stand War II. As the commander of the Rangers, Darby used the articles focus on events taking motorcycle as a preferred mode of transportation to commute place primarily in Ward 2 between troops. “Rangers Lead the Way!” For more informa- which is the north side of Fort tion about the project or to donate directly to the project, visit Smith to inform you and to www.darbylegacyproject.com hopefully get you motivated Reminder - Upcoming Board Appointments: Plumbing Advi- to take interest in city issues. sory Board-February, Housing Authority-March, Arkansas Fair The boundaries are River and Exhibition Board-March, Electric Code Appeals Board- Front Dr to Kelley Hwy, March, Outside Agency Review Panel-March, Animal Services I-540 to North “O” St, Old Advisory Board-April, Housing Assistance Board-April and Greenwood Rd to Grand Ave, Planning Commission-April. N. 13th St to Garrison Ave and back to River Front Dr. Current Employment Opportunities: Firefighter, FSPD Tele- Downtown Fort Smith, where the Live-Work-Play communicator, FSPS Crime and Intelligence Analyst, Radio environment branding is moving the area in a positive Communications Technician and EOIII Landfill. www.fortsmith- direction! The Central Business Improvement District (CBID) ar.gov calls itself the primary driving force for the recruitment, I hope you find these articles beneficial and motivational. retention, employment, increasing property values and housing Be encouraged…Good things are happening! If you have any opportunities for Downtown Fort Smith. The River Park questions, concerns or suggestions, please feel free to reach Compass Splash Pad is yet another partnership at work. The out to me - [email protected] or 479-285-4932. City has approved and budgeted $150,000 from the parks 5 year CIP for 2014. The CBID will match the city’s contribution. Richard Griffin and the CBID started the preliminary I Am - Somebody engineering work with Bobby Aldridge of Frontier Engineering by Reverend William H. Borders, Sr. who began discussing the project with aquatic playground equipment company Water Odyssey. Currently, I believe the I Am project could be in the hands of our local Burton Pools and Somebody Spas. Plans are to have the downtown park addition ready to I May Be Poor open by the July 4th holiday. But I Am The community-based group, Beautify Fort Smith met Somebody Feb. 5th 2014. Fort Smith Department of Sanitation director I May Be Young attended the meeting. According to their meeting minutes But I Am Beautify Fort Smith will be partnering with the City; a part- Somebody time Sanitation Department employee is being hired “to work I May Be On Welfare on beautification projects. Baridi stated that there will be an But I Am upcoming board study session in the spring followed by the Somebody development of a committee and a job description for a part- I May Be Small time position that will be filled in July.” But I Am On January 27, city employees were busy planting several Somebody large trees at Martin Luther King Park. The trees were I May Make A Mistake presented as a grant for $1,000 to the Parks and Recreation But I Am Department to be planted at Martin Luther King Park by Somebody Beautify Fort Smith and Dean Powell with OG&E. “Nine trees were purchased with the grant. I appreciate Beautify Fort Smith’s commitment to improving the City’s appearance by purchasing the trees for Martin Luther King Park which will provide shade for citizens into the future while improving the health and aesthetics of the park. Beautify Fort Smith is an asset to the community through many projects around the city” Parks Director Mike Alsup noted. The latest presentation on the Belle Grove Center (7th Street Girls Club building) was at the Parks and Recreations meeting Feb 5th 2014. Mr. Galen Hunter with MAGH made an awesome presentation of conceptual designs that encompasses facility service ideas submitted by residents. A few examples are: Computer labs, lap swimming, mentoring programs, public meeting spaces, senior activities, cooking and after-school programs. Those themes took shape that produced a program legend, how the facility’s floor plan should look. Those needed spaces are: Classrooms/labs, auditorium, gymnasium, swimming pool and outdoor space. The conceptual designed also defined some building issues: Connectivity, Pool Condition, Kitchen Access, Front Door vs. Parking, Locker Room/ Second Floor Access and the Men’s Toilet. With challenges also comes building opportunities: Building Re-Use, Energy Upgrade, Health & Fitness, Community Connectivity, Gardens & Open Areas and Revitalizing Neighborhoods. If you would like to see a copy of the current set of sketches, let me know and I will fax, email or mail you a copy. Your street tax money is constantly working! Some of the 2013 capital improvements for streets overlays/reconstruction and drainage includes: Roosevelt Rd, Allen Ln, Pryor Ave, 33rd, 35th, 36th and 50th Streets to name a few. The contracts for the 2013 projects are ongoing and contractors are in various stages of construction for the locations shown. The 2014 projects are in design with construction scheduled to start later this year. 2014 Neighborhood Drainage Project – 4500 Block of North “O” St – This project will add inlets and a storm drain to intercept runoff from North “O” Street. Two houses are experiencing flooding in this area and severe street flooding is also occurring. I would be amiss if I didn’t include the General Darby Legacy Project! Another partnership downtown! This initiative will dedicate a Gen. Darby monument to be forever placed at Cisterna Park in Fort Smith, Arkansas as a memorial and