NORTHEAST FLORIDA’S OLDEST, LARGEST, MOST-READ AFRICAN-AMERICAN OWNED NEWSPAPER

The Florida Star Presorted Standard BLACK HISTORY GOSPEL Man Kidnaps The Florida Star, U.S. Postage Paid CELEBRATION P. O. Box 40629 Jacksonville, FL Woman He Met The Star! Jacksonville, FL 32203 Permit No. 3617 F e a t u r i n g Online and Her Impact Radio Can’t Get to the Store? YOLANDA ADAMS Three Children AM1360 Free Tickets See (904) 766-8834 Have The Star Delivered! call 904-766-8834 Crime & Justice SINCE 1951

An Award Read The Florida Winning and Georgia Star Newspapers. Publication, Listen to IMPACT serving you Radio Talk Show. since 1951. www.thefloridastar.com Rated “A” by Still the people’s the Better choice, striving to Business Bureau www.thefloridastar.com make a difference. FEBRUARY 18, 2012 - FEBRUARY 24, 2012 VOL. 61 NO. 43 50 CENTS LOVETOWN, USA Florida 1980 Prison By Marsha Dean Phelts, Photos by Sandy Neal and Marsha Phelts Escapee Arrested During A Traffic Stop ple can apply for a mar- by Kevin Kim riage license and get mar- ried in one day. For years as long as memory serves, Florida man, Gerald Floridians young and old Balam, 62, was pulled have rapidly crossed the over for a traffic stop in state lines for a quicky Illington, North marriage when smitten by Carolina. When the the amorous bite of the officer checked Balam's "Love Bug." license, he discovered Clarence Cobb a contest- Oprah Winfrey' TV that Balam was a want- ant looking for love in love Mayor Ken Smith and Network OWN will be ed fugitive out of Oprah Winfrey town. Clara McLaughlin filming the experimental Florida. According to show of eight singles on a reports, Balam had quest to find love over the escaped from a prison next 30 days in Gerald Balam bus, while he was being (Kingsland, Georgia) transferred in 1980. He Lovetown, USA. Winfrey was serving 15 years after being convicted in 1972, challenged all to seize the 1973, and 1976 on charges of burglary, robbery, car- opportunity to set the pace rying a concealed weapon, and grand theft. Balam Sandy Neal and Oprah for the year with a show of went by different aliases including Willie Lee Winfrey kindness, service, love and Jackson, Adam Baham, William Ellis, and David support for one another. James, but had his original name on his license. Lovetown, USA was launched Kingsland/St. Mary's region. She implored upon the hundreds Balam is back in jail after 30 years and is being held from the banks of the St. Mary's Well over one thousand people upon hundreds gathered at the on $200,000 bond. River, Sunday afternoon in St. turned out after church on Sunday, Waterfront Park to become more Mary's, Georgia and The Florida February 12, to welcome Oprah selfless and forgiving. Jacksonville’s Brenda Jackson Star/Georgia Star was there to cap- Winfrey in town. As soon as Ms. After the 30 day experimental Nominated For Image Award ture the events as they unfolded Winfrey came ashore from a Coast search, Winfrey will whisk back to moment by moment. We were Guard Fleet, Mayor Smith present- Kingsland/St. Mary's to throw a She has been recog- warmly greeted by Ken Smith, The ed her with the Key to the City that Big Ball in Lovetown, USA. The nized by the NAACP for Mayor of the City of Kingsland. she dubbed Lovetown, USA. outstanding work in liter- We quickly learned that Mayor Many along the Florida First Coast countdown has begun, 30-29-28- 27-26-25-24-23-22-21...Be there ature. Smith was a Jacksonville native can identify with the Lovetown Jackson and her readers of The Florida/Georgia who though born in Brewester moniker because St. Mary's is the novel, A Silken Thread, Hospital, grew up in the closest municipality where a cou- Star. will be honored at the 43rd Annual NAACP Marvyne "Beach Lady" Betsch Image Awards in Los Angeles. She is one of Community Event five finalists up for the Photo by F.M. Powell III prestigious award. On February 17, Marsha Dean Phelts presented on the colorful With more than 3 million copies of her books in life of the late Marvyne "Beach Lady" Betsch. It was held at the Amelia print, Brenda Jackson has been a trailblazer in Island Museum of History 233 S. 3rd Street, in Downtown Fernandina African-American romance. She is the first African- Beach. Ms. Betsch was the great granddaughter of , principal founder of American Beach. American romance writer to make USA Today’s and Marvyne took pride in the fact that American Beach was estab- ’ bestseller lists for the series lished and developed by the Afro American Life Insurance Company in romance genre. The author of more than eighty novels, January 1935, the same year and month of her birth in Jacksonville's she is the recipient of countless awards, including Sugar Hill neighborhood. numerous Romance in Color Reviewers’ Choice Marsha Dean Phelts, author of acclaimed books on American Awards, Emma Awards, and e-Harlequin Reader’s Beach discusses the legendary life of Marvyne Betsch, a multi-talented Choice Awards. icon who in her career morphed from an opera singer in Europe to a much regarded preservationist and unofficial Mayor of American Beach. With no sign of slowing down, Brenda has taken on the world of romance by storm with her grace, Black History Month Founder A First Look At Beyonce intelligence, and most of all- with her passion.

Woodson (December 19, And Jay-Z's Daughter Whitney 's 1875 – April 3, 1950). It became a month-long cele- funeral set for Saturday bration in 1976. The month of February was chosen to coincide with the birthdays of Whitney Houston Frederick Douglass and one of the greatest Abraham Lincoln. Woodson female artists of all was a noted African time, recently passed American historian, scholar, away on February 11, educator, publisher, and the 2012 at age 48. She was founder of the Association an inspiration to people for the Study of African all around the world Carter G. Woodson American Life and History. and her funeral will be He was also one of the first Meet baby Blue Ivy Carter. The first photos of Beyonce and Jay-Z's daughter Blue Ivy surfaced on streaming live on Black History Month scholars to study African began as "Negro History Tumblr, revealing a beaming first-time mother hold- February 18 at noon (EST). It will be provided by the American history and has ing her bundle of joy. Week" and was created in been cited as the father of Associated Press at www.livestream.com/aplive and 1926 by Carter Godwin There's no doubt that Blue is the spitting image of black history. her famous mom and dad. other news media outlets. Opinion/Editorial...... A-2 I Church...... A-3 Looking for customers to patronize your Wish to give us a News Story? Talk of the Town...... A-4 Call (904) 766-8834 or Send it to: N Around the Area...... A-6 business or utilize your services? If you Caribbean News...... A-7 [email protected] S Local...... B-1 answered YES, then you need to place an ad I Columns...... B-2 in The Florida Star or Georgia Star! [email protected] Sports...... B-4 D Crime & Justice..(A).C&J-1-4 CALL 904/766-8834 to place your ad TODAY!! Prep Rap...... (B).PR-1-4 E Classified & Business...B-7 Check, Money Order, or Credit Cards Accepted PAGE A-2 THE STAR FEBRUARY 18, 2012 Black History Month: A Time to Reflect By Diana Hoffman

Words are powerful. They define. Definitions ascribe images to people, places and things. Ultimately, they determine how people are treated by others. The Founder of Black History Month, Carter G. Woodson, certainly knew that. That said, Black History Month is a time to reflect on pet peeve words that are used to describe Black people, especially those born in America. Take the word “blacks.” It is dehu- manizing. The word “blacks” subconsciously describes Black people as less than and, com- paratively speaking, not as human as. Here’s why. The word “”blacks” is a plural noun that rhymes with words that describe a collective of animals such as cats, rats, bats, snakes and dogs. Or, things such as hats, slats, vats, mats, etc. In a subtle way, “blacks” is used in the same way as animals and things. Yet, the term “blacks” rolls off tongues so easily and comfortably. Each utterance has an accumulative effect, which more firmly entrenches the underlying association with animals and things and with the undercurrent of comparative inferiority of Black people, especially of . Every expression of “blacks” creates a subconscious association and a collec- tive mindset of “blacks” as those things. Recently, conservative Caucasian pundit, Ann Coulter, in discussing liberals and conservatives and making a point on a television show said, “our blacks are better than your blacks.” Some might argue that saying the word, “whites,” is the same. Not so. “Whites,” as a derivative of “white” has a culturally inherent association with positive concepts such as good , pure and universal concepts such as people, woman, man and child. The word “whites” doesn’t have the same meaning for two other reasons. One, it doesn’t rhyme with the plurals for animals and things. And, secondly, the term is seldom used, especially in media. Media use is most important because media impacts image which dictates a public collective mindset for a group of people and how they are treated or mistreated in our soci- ety. It behooves everyone, especially African Americans, to drop “blacks” in an effort to bring about subconscious change. Many people have already modified their use of the term by deliberately and conscientiously using the word “people” with “blacks” as in “Black people.” The use of “people” negates the automatic, subtle, subliminal association with ani- mals and things which, generally, goes unnoticed on a conscious level. Saying “Black people” could take getting use to. As a former professor I found Black students had a difficult time making the transition to coupling the word people with “blacks,” even though they wanted to. The use of “blacks” had become so programmed and entrenched in their minds that it would take significant time for them to deprogram them- selves. A second pet peeve in English usage is that small letter “b” in “blacks” in written lan- guage. Continuously writing the “b” reinforces over and over that Black people are less than. Who hasn’t at one time or another seen the insulting sequence “Asians, Hispanics and blacks”. In school, students are taught to capitalize proper nouns to distinguish them from common nouns. Capitalization gives more status to words, which makes the common noun, “blacks,” even more demeaning as a reference for Black people. Grammarians would say “blacks” with small letter “b” is the standard, accepted lan- guage. The question is, accepted by whom, for what reason? Who gives grammarians the right to define others with “standard English” that is mentally manipulative and degrading for a whole group of people? A third pet peeve in English language usage is female and male as spoken and written in “black female” and “black male”. It seems, in the media, this coupling of female and male with “black” is used most often for Black people. Black woman and Black man are not used as often or as often as needed for a collective, subliminal image change for African Americans. Also, again, female and male are always adjectives used in reference to ani- mals. A final pet peeve to think of this 2012 Black History Month is the phrase “people of color.” This was recently used by a Caucasian man on television, which brought many questions to mind like, what does that mean, “people of color?” When people say “people of color” do they really mean people with color and if they do, then why don’t they just say so? There is no such thing as “people of color”. It makes no sense. Who made that up? Why? Is “people with color” not used because it implies that there are people without color? And, is it insulting or demeaning to say “people without color,” therefore, it’s not used. These are just some questions for thought on this matter for Black History Month. These pet peeves may seem inconsequential, but they are of consequence in terms of their accumulative impact in shaping the collective American psyche. Possibly, it is the international psyche for in today’s electronic world, media is ubiquitous, making folks all over the globe subject to the same information or misinformation. While African Americans may not be able to control the words used by others, they can certainly control words coming from their own mouths and writing implements take back the power of defining for themselves. Through Black American efforts from the ‘50’s on we’ve moved from “ni**er” and “Negro” and “colored” and “blacks” to African Americans and Black People and Black Americans. Black History Month 2012 is a good time to decide to reject all insulting and demeaning language and to substitute enhancing language such as Black People. A final point is that some African Americans reject both African American and Black People. In the past, the entertainer, Whoopi Goldberg, has gone on record as saying most emphatically, she is American. True. We all are who are born here. The reality and fact is most apparent when Black Americans get a passport and travel to a foreign country. It is then that they are officially dubbed American. In America, however, Black Americans are designated as a color first and that will continue until equality on all levels is established for Black Americans as it has been for all Caucasian ethnic groups that came to this coun- try. During the 1950’s, ethnic groups were regularly referred via their place of origin, such as Italian, Irish, Polish, British, German, etc. Now, they’re all under the umbrella of American. One rarely hears media references to Caucasian Americans from their place of origin in Europe. In any case, for now, we have to deal with what is. So let’s stop using demeaning terms to describe Black People. Black History Month is a good time to make a commitment. Carter G. Woodson, the Founder of Black History Month would probably like that. Diversity Symposium The D. W. Perkins Bar Association, Inc. in cooperation with the Jacksonville Chapter of the Federal Bar Association and The Florida Bar Association will be sponsoring a Diversity Symposium at the Federal Courthouse on February 23, 2012, from 11:30 am to 1:30 pm. The purpose of this symposium is to highlight and demon- strate the importance of creating a dialog about diversity. The theme for this program is “Embracing Diversity and Excellence: Coexistence and Change.” The facilitator for this program is Judge Pauline Drake and Judge Henry Adams, Jr. will be available to answer questions about the film which will be shown. Conversations on Catfish, Courtrooms and Change: The Life and Times of Henry Lee Adams, which was produced by Lang Sheppard of Stunt Dog Production, Inc, son of William J. Sheppard, Jr., Esq. will be shown. The film recounts the story of Judge Henry Lee Adams, Jr. and his rise from poverty stricken and segregated Eastside of Jacksonville through the Civil Rights Movement to his current posi- tion as the first Black Senior United States District Judge in the State of Florida. Judge Adams is the narrator of the film. Students from Paxon School of Advanced Studies are also going to make a presenta- tion through music. The group appropriately named DIVERSITY and under the direction of Ms. Deborah McDuffie Doby will perform. This group includes students from diverse backgrounds. Students have also been invited from Eugene Butler Middle School and from the City of Jacksonville Youth Build Program and the DAWN (Developing Adults with Necessary Skills) Program. This is an important dialog and discussion that must take place among judges, lawyers, teacher and students from different areas and backgrounds. Submitted by Pauline M. Drake FEBRUARY 18, 2012 THE STAR PAGE A-3 CHURCH Faith In Our Community The Church Directory Schedule of Events and Services DEATHDEATH NOTICESNOTICES “Come and Worship With Us” ANNOUNCEMENTS KELLY, Wilbert, died New Bethlehem Missionary Baptist Church JACKSONVILLE, FL February 13, 2012. 1824 Prospect Street * Jacksonville, FL 32208 NAPOLEAN, Nathan, Sunday School …...... ………………..9:30 a.m. ADAMS, Brian, 23, died Sunday Morning February 11, 2012. 64, died February 7, Intercessory Prayer...... …..10:45 a.m. ALDERMAN, Russell, 2012. C.L.Page Mortuary, Inc. Morning Worship ...... 11:00 a.m. ROBERTS, Jr., R.D., Youth Church died February 10, 2012. 2nd & 3rd Sundays (Old Sanctuary) ALTER, Leonard, Jr., 72, died February 2, 2012. Tuesday - Pastoral Bible Study ...... 7:00 p.m. died February 11, 2012. C.L.Page Mortuary, Inc. Elder Arnitt Jones, Acting Pastor SUITTER, Belinda, 42, Rev. Joe Calhoun, Pastor Emeritus BELVIN, Betty Joe, died (904) 764-5727 - Church died February 3, 2012. February 13, 2012. BENNETT, Anthony L., C.L.Page Mortuary, Inc. Historic Mt. Zion A.M.E. Church died February 12, 2012. Sunday Worship Service ...... 10:00 a.m. CFIGC REFRESHING WOMEN/PUSH TV MIN- BoBo, Kathryn Yvette, ~*~ Church School ...... 8:30 p.m. ISTRY will present the Annual Brunch/Luncneon to be 93, died February 14, Wednesday GEORGIA DEATHS “Glory Hour” Bible Study ...... 10:00 a.m. held on Saturday, February 18, 2012 at St. Matthews 2012. “Jehovah Jireh” Bible Study ...... 6:30 p.m. Lutheran Church Auditorium, located at 6801 Merrill BROWN, Janice BELL, Karl, died 2nd & 4th Thursday “Young at Heart Ministry ...... 10:00 a.m. Road, Jacksonville, FL, from 9 a.m. until 1:30 p.m. For Johnson, 57, died February 5, 2012. Friday Joy Explosion Ministry ...... 6:30 p.m. more information call (904) 220-6400. February 10, 2012. BENFIELD, Clifford CUTLER, Shirley, 73, 201 East Beaver St. * (904) 355-9475 ST. SIMON BAPTIST CHURCH of Orange Park, FL, Lee, 58, died February 12, Rev. Pearce Edwing, Sr. Rev. W. H. Randall, Founding Pastor, is celebrating Black died February 9, 2012. 2012. History Month, with an original drama presentation "The C.L.Page Mortuary, Inc. FREDERICKS, Michael GREATER EL-BETHEL DIVINE HOLINESS CHURCH Christopher, 26, died “The Church Where Everybody Is Somebody” Journey From To Freedom," Friday, February 24, EVANS, Bernarde, 38, died February 4, 2012. February 4, 2012. Bishop Lorenzo Hall., Pastor 2012 at 7:00pm. Please come and witness this historic Street Address: 723 W. 4th St. Jacksonville, Florida 32209 SHARPER, Lewrisey event. The Church is located at 1331 Miller Street, Orange C.L.Page Mortuary, Inc. Mailing Address: P.O. Box 3575, Jacksonville, Florida 32206 JONES, Mary Alice, Coleman, died February Church Telephone: (904) 359-0661 Home: (904) 358-8932 Cell: 710-1586 Park, FL 32073. You may call 904-215-3300 for more 2, 2012. information or directions. died February 10, 2012. Sunday School...... 9:30 a.m. Morning Worship...... 11:00 a.m. Tuesday...... Prayer Meeting & Bible Study,7:00 p.m. Come join Bishop Dr. Lorenzo Hall Sr. every Wednesday Thursday...... Joy Night,7:00 p.m. and Thursday from 12:00 Noon to 1:00 PM for Prayer Meeting and Bible Study at The Greater El-Beth-El Ask Us About Our “Email: [email protected] Divine Holiness Church, located at 723 W. 4th Street, Website: Greaterelbethel.org Jacksonville, FL 32209. If there had been a death Pre-Need Listings are due the Tuesday before the next issue. in your family yesterday, what would you be doing Central Metropolitan C.M.E. Church Email submissions preferred. Send to: 4611 North Pearl St., Jacksonville, FL 32206 [email protected] today? Ofc (904) 354-7426 * Fax (904) 354-0934 Fore- Rev. Marquise Hardrick, Pastor ~ Worship Service ~ Sun Church School - 9:30a.m. Thought Sun Morning Worship -10:45 a.m. Tues Eve Bible Study - 6:30 p.m. Rev. Marquise & Wed Bible Study - 12 Noon Mrs. Deedra Hardrick Wed Feeding Ministry - 2:00 p.m. Funeral “Go ye therefore, and teach all nations, and of “I’m sorry the Son, and of the Holy Ghost: Teaching them to have to observe all things whatsoever I have com- to tell manded you; and, lo, I am with you always, even Planning unto the end of the world. Amen.” you this...” Program Mathew 28:19-20 Lion of the Tribe of Judah Ministries, Inc. FAMILY OWNED AND OPERATED PASTOR Since 1988 Website: Dr. Sirretta Williams ALPHONSO WEST MORTUARY, INC. www.lottojm.com 4409 Soutel Dr. * Jacksonville, FL 32208 Tel: (904) 766-9671 Fax: (904) 766-2354 (Temporary services held) 623 Beechwood St., Jacksonville, FL 32206 DIRECTORS Sunday School...... 10:00 a.m. ~ Sunday Worship ...... 11:00 a.m. Deborah West Alphonso West Every 5th Sunday Friends and Family Day Jacqueline Y. Bartley Wednesday Bible Study - 7:00 p.m. Agape Direct Phone: 904.866.7047 * Office Phone: 904.356.4226 Funeral Home and Cremation Services Seeing Beyond The Lifestyle To Save A Life (904) 683-9093 To all Catholic, Jews, Baptist, 1248 W. Edgewood Ave., Jacksonville, FL 32208 Lutheran, Cogic, Muslims, 7th Day Adventist, C. L. Page Mortuary offers full funeral Jehovah’s Witnesses, Mormons, and cremation services at an afford- Serving you with the finest in Professional Quality Non-Demoninational, etc. able price because we care. Funeral and Cremation Services with both financing and Affordability I have one question to Ask … “We are now offering Live Streaming “The Caring Professionals” of Funeral and Visitation Services.” We would like to thank all of the many families that got truth? have allowed us the privilege of serving them. We hope www.thespiritofyah.com that our services have been in everyway satisfactory. Call on us to compare before you make any final decisions: 3031 Moncrief Road * Jacksonville, FL 32209 Carla L. Page, LFDIC Harold Felder, LFDIC - Minister Orien Greene, Visit us at Chaplain - Evangelist Francina Epps, WWW.CLPAGEMORTUARY.COM Grief Counselor Rev. Willie Brown, Notary - Rev. Dr. W.G. Mayberry, CEO We serve all of Jacksonville and the surrounding areas... Celebration for Pastor - Dr. Landon L. Williams, Sr. Tune In To WCGL AM Radio “Se Habla Espanol” Februar 19th, 2012 Is Your Child Ready for Kindergarten? Special Anniversary Worship Services Austin Christian Academy for the Development of Excellence and Leadership, Inc. Sunday, February 19th, 2012 4:00 P.M. Spoken word by Dr. John Guns, St. Paul Missionary Baptist Church For Guest Churches First Missionary Baptist Church of Jacksonville Beach, Dr. Marvin McQueen Jerusalem Missionary Baptist Church, Pastor Brian Campbell Springhill Missionary Baptist Church, Pastor Michael Jackson Clara McLaughlin Yvonne Brooks Voluntary Pre-Kindergarten(VPK) - 12th Grade Leath - Host Co-Host All services will be held at Greater Macedonia Baptist Church Voluntary Pre-Kindergarten (VPK) is a quality education program 1880 West Edgewood Avenue aimed to help your child enter school prepared and ready to learn. All children 4 years old on or before September 1, 2010 and eligi- For more information, please contact the Church at 764-9257 IMPACTIMPACT ble for kindergarten in the fall of 2011 will qualify! A Florida Driver’s License and the child’s Birth Certificate are required for enrollment. A Social Security number for the child is Being Useful Not Giving In Tuesday and Thursday also preferred, if available. Stop The Violence Use Your Talents, Inc. Offering: from 8:30 p.m. to 9:00 p.m. * A Beka Program, Arts and Crafts, Music/Computer Lab, Founder: GERNADO At Tutoring, Teen Parent Service Center, Field Trips, Extended Day 6:30 a.m. - 6:30 p.m., Alternative Education, Community Hours “Bring Me to Your Church or Organization” NOW ENROLLING Ministry – Music – Mentoring When: Monday - Friday (9a.m. - 5 p.m.) WCGL1360.com Where: 6901 N. Main St. (Greater Israel Baptist Church located Great for youth and young adults on the corner of 59th and Main St.) (Honorarium or Donations required) Audrey A. White, Principal Florida Star Impact 6901 N. Main St., Jacksonvillle, FL 32208 The and (904) 647-5065 (904) 333-4290 Contact: 904-437-0309 We are redefining the world in which children live! or email [email protected] Striving To Make A Difference! PAGE A-4 THE STAR FEBRUARY 18, 2012 TalkTalk ofof thethe Town!Town!

E kaabo (eh-kah-bow). Welcome. TALK OF THE TOWN! Celebrates Black History Month By Frances Bradley Photos by Volume Burks

Wedding Bells for Owner/Publisher of The Florida Star Clara McLaughlin, Owner and Publisher of The Florida Star and The Georgia Star, and Lonzie Leath were married on Saturday, January 28 at 4:00 p.m. at Mt. Sinai Missionary Baptist Church. Pastor R L Gundy performed the ceremony, with his wife, Mrs. Wallette Gundy, as witness. Leath is owner of SAI Central of Dallas, Texas, Managing Consultant and General Contracting. Congratulations, Clara and Lonzie! You Officers and Members of Durkeville Historical Society are this week’s TALK OF THE TOWN! Students can fulfill community service hours at the Center because the Society is a 501(c)3 ~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~ non-profit organization. Speaking of Clara McLaughlin, did you know...? For more information, visit their website at www.durkeevilleshistoricalsociety.com or • She was the first African-American woman to own a network affiliated television call (904) 598-9567, Monday through Friday, 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. station in the U.S. As CEO of the East Texas Television Network, Mrs. McLaughlin owned four stations in Texas in the 1980s – CBS affiliate KLMG-TV in Longview, ~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~ KLNL-TV in Nacogdoches, KLPH-TV in Paris, and KLDS-TV in Denison. • Authored The Black Parents’ Handbook, as a result of her frustration at the dearth Kingsley Plantation of child-rearing information for African-Americans. Community Dialogue • As a new student at Howard University with a desire to pursue a career as a jour- On February 2, 2012 the nalist, Clara initiated efforts to have journalism offered as a major. invited volunteers from the communi- ty to engage in facilitated dia- logue about recent archaeolog- ical discovery of a previously unknown burial ground at Kingsley Plantation. Barbara Goodman, Superintendent of Bryant Rollins Shirley Stetson the Timucuan Ecological and Historic Preserve and Shauna Allen, Chief of Resource A Salute to the Durkeeville Stewardship of the National Park Service hosted the event at WJCT Studios. The facilitat- Historical Society ed discussion was presented by Bryant Rollins and Shirley Stetson of StetsonRollins The Durkeeville community was Consulting (www.stetsonrollins.net). founded in the 1930s, when African I was honored to be invited as a facilitator of the group discussions during which par- Americans were barred from living in ticipants shared personal thoughts about the passing of someone significant in their lives. many parts of the city. This was during The dialogue will enable the Park Service to understand personal and community values the period of mandatory separation of related to the discovery of the slave burial ground at Kingsley Plantation. the races and legal discrimination. The The program, which was filmed by WJCT, will be presented as an hour long feature people who came together to create throughout February. Visit WJCT ‘s website, www..org/tv, for information and sched- Durkeeville were middle class and ules. Durkeville Historical Center working class individuals. Some were 1293 W. 19th Street, Jacksonville, Florida 32209 doctors, lawyers, educators and busi- ness people. Others were ordinary laborers. They created a neighborhood that sheltered and nurtured many dur- ing this challenging time. Unfortunately and ironically the elimination of legal discrimination resulted in the decline of the communi- Barbara Goodman, Timucuan Ecological ty. This was due to the relocation of and Historic Preserve Superintendent, many prominent residents and the at press conference announcing L-R: Marsha Oliver, Pedro Cohen, flight of much commercial activity Kingsley Plantation cemetery discovery Patricia Sams, Walette Stanford from the area. In 1998, the Durkeeville Historical Society was formed and was located at Facilitators, front row, l-r: the Oaks of Durkeeville. In 2005, the Walette Stanford, Shelley Durkeeville Historical Center, a new facility constructed by the Jacksonville Housing Authority, became the home of the Society. Kagen, Frances Bradley, The goal of the Historical Society is to enhance the new center by refurbishing the exist- Ok Sun Burks. 2nd row, l-r: ing exhibits and adding new displays, help educate about the history of Durkeeville and its David Lafitte, Kathleen citizens’ contributions to the community and Jacksonville, earn revenue to help provide McKenzie, Henry Thomas, services for the benefit and education of the community, such as genealogy workshops to assist in tracing family histories, and to offer tours to individuals, school groups, and the Jim Crooks. Photo cour- many visitors to the center. tesy of Seann Burks. Society members hold a fish fry fundraiser on the last Saturday of each month. It’s a perfect time to tour the museum and meet members. Volunteer opportunities are available. FEBRUARY 18, 2012 THE STAR PAGE A-5 PAGE A-6 THE STAR FEBRUARY 18, 2012

It’s time to Expand YOUR HORIZONS.

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If your child is interested in attending a magnet school, NOW’S THE TIME TO GET STARTED.

Submit your application by mail, in person or online – where you can see your admission priority to the school of your preference right away.

Visit www.magnetprograms.com or call 904.390.2082 to learn more. FEBRUARY 18, 2012 THE STAR PAGE A-7

Thousands Celebrate With US Embassy In Bahamas Announces Jamaican Descendents of African Maroon Slaves the Four Winners of the 2012 Dr. King Civil Rights Essay Contest

NASSAU, The Bahamas - The United States Embassy is pleased to announce the results of the Sixth Annual Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. Civil Rights Essay Contest. The purpose of Colonel of the Accompong Maroons, Ferron Williams (left), the annual contest was to having a quiet conversation with council member of the encourage Bahamian Charles Town Maroons, Frank Lumbsden, during the cele- brations, recently. students to explore the By Bryan Miller, JIS life of Dr. King and reflect on how civil rights and diversity JAMAICA:Thousands of Jamaicans and affect their lives today. visitors gathered in Accompong, St. Elizabeth, This year, stu- recently to celebrate the 274th anniversary of the Peace Treaty, which was signed between the dents were asked to Maroons and the British Government. select an American civil The annual event attracted even more atten- rights leader who was tion this year, as it is one of the official events of inspired by Dr. King and Jamaica 50, to mark the country's 50th anniversary write an essay that artic- of independence. ulates that leader’s con- There were cultural presentations and tradi- tribution to the civil tional observations throughout the day, with activi- rights movement. ties running from daybreak until late in the night. Students were also asked Addressing the official opening, Principal to describe what they Director of Culture in the Ministry of Youth and can do or what they have Culture, Sydney Bartley, pointed out that had it not done in their own com- been for that peace treaty signed in 1738, many munities to contribute to other subsequent treaties would not have been a more peaceful and signed. non-violent world. "If it had not been for the continuous strug- This year the gle of people like Cudjo, and Nanny (of the Embassy received over Maroons) and so many others, we would not (be 90 essays from high celebrating) today. We would be expected to be school students attend- somewhere cutting cane," he said. ing public and private Mr. Bartley argued that the independence schools in New movement for Jamaica did not begin in 1962, but Providence, Grand instead with the resistance staged by all Africans at Bahama, and the Family the point of their capture in their homeland. He Islands. The following insisted that as we celebrate Jamaica’s 50th anniversary of independence, it is important for the four students were people to remember the struggles. selected winners and "We need to ritualise the important elements will each receive the of our lives. Too many Jamaicans are moving grand prize - a new around today, not even stopping to think that this is Apple iPad 2. an important day in our calendar. Without this day, (Bottom left) many other days might not have happened," he Cedric Munroe –Doris emphasised. Johnson Sr. High, New In his message, read by Custos of St. Providence Topic: Dr. Elizabeth, Hon. Wilfred Nembhard, Governor Maya Angelou. General, His Excellency the Most Hon. Sir Patrick (Bottom right) Allen, described the Maroons as an integral part of Benita Delaney the rich history of Jamaica. –Sunland Baptist He argued that when people have a strong Academy, Grand sense of self identity through culture, they are more Bahama. Topic: John R. likely to interact peacefully with other cultures, Lewis. with respect for the diversity of value systems and (Top left) Devin religious beliefs. Major –Moore’s Island "This fluid nature of culture can be positive, All-age School, Moore’s leading to stronger societal structures and values. Island, Abaco. Topic: Respect, appreciation, tolerance and a basic under- Reverend Jesse Jackson. standing of fundamental human rights, are tenets (Top right) that have aided in the maintenance and preservation Stevanno Miller of the culture of the Maroons,” the Governor –Preston Albury High General said. School, Rock Sound, Eleuthera Topic: Reverend Jesse Jackson. In honour of Black History Month, during the month of February, officials from the U.S Embassy will visit each school to for- mally recognize the win- ners. PAGE A-8 THE STAR FEBRUARY 18, 2012

Filled with favorite foods and full of unforgettable stories, the serving dishes that have graced dinner tables for generations are more than just plates. They’re treasured pieces of family history that remind us that the past isn’t just facts. And it’s those wonderful traditions that have nourished families and kept them strong for centuries. So, enjoy a big plate of history this month. It’s delicious.

© 2011 Publix Asset Management Company FEBRUARY 18, 2012 THE STAR FLORIDA B LOCAL SECTION BALLOON RELEASE Families of Slain Children, Inc. Story by Tammy Z. Seymour Photos by Frank M. Powell, III of The Florida Star

Balloon Release February 11, 2012 - Families of Slain Children Inc. Many people walk around with R.I.P. shirts, jackets and pants on, which is actually a way of saying and hoping that their loved one will Rest In Peace after death and most importantly be remembered. These clothing often go through the wash and as the shirt fades, often so does the memory. That does not happen with Families of Slain Children Inc. Ms. Beverly McClain and her dedicated volunteers keep the memory of love ones alive, with balloon releases every 3 months or upon request from devastated families. A release of balloons in remembrance of the loved ones lost in the many acts of violence that has affected countless lives in Jacksonville, Florida and surrounding areas. February 11, 2012, 300 balloons were released in the names of deceased loved ones. People wrote the name of their loved one on balloons, as all the balloons were released the general feeling was Rest in Peace and I will never forget you. Watching the balloons fade into the clouds there was a sense of heavenly tranquil- ity. Eyes watering, cries, smiles and waving to the sky all in the name of Rest In Peace.

Jacksonville Urban League Led by Richard Danford Participates in National African American Leadership Delegation to China included: William Bates, which included a former Esq., Grand Polemarch of Clinton Administration Kappa Alpha Psi cabinet member, head of Fraternity, Inc.; Dr. the National Newspaper Richard Danford, Publishers’ Association President and CEO of the (NNPA) and a program Urban League of host on TV One. The Jacksonville, FL; Dr. results culminated in a Patrick Graham, president group of 50 Crenshaw and CEO of the Urban High School students par- League of the Central ticipating in a Summer Carolinas; Keith Youth Educational Grandberry, president and Exchange program in CEO of the Winston China, organized by the Salem Urban League; Los Angeles Urban Chanelle Hardy, SVP and League, and the historic executive director of the signing of an agreement National Urban League with the Ministry of Policy Institute; Wanda Education/Hanban by Jackson, SVP of NUL’s Xavier University of Human Resources; Nancy Louisiana to become the Flake Johnson, president first HBCU and first uni- and CEO of the versity in the state of Urban League; Joann Louisiana to establish a Loveless, International Confucius Institute. There Grand Basileus of Sigma are more than 300 Gamma Rho Sorority Inc.; Confucius Institutes in 96 Marsha Mockabee, presi- countries, 76 of which are dent and CEO of the in the U.S. None have Urban League of Greater been established at an Richard Danford, President and CEO of the Jacksonville Urban League Xu Kuangdi, the former Vice Chairman of the Cleveland; Karl Price, HBCU until Dec. 2011. People’s Political Consultative Conference Landri Taylor, President and CEO of the Urban League of Metropolitan Esq., International Grand In addition to meeting Denver Polaris of Iota Phi Theta with key leaders in China, During a one-week Urban League and equality in the U.S., to ministries and civic organ- Fraternity Inc.; Brandi the 2012 NUL delegation visit to China, a 16-mem- designed to educate parity worldwide. izations, including the Richard, president of the visited historic sites in ber delegation of Urban African American leaders Learning about China, and Ministry of Education; NUL Young Professionals Beijing such as League affiliate and in global opportunities, other countries, under- China International (NULYP); Nolan Rollins, Tiananmen Square, the “Divine Nine” and engage them in inter- standing various cultures Cooperation Association president and CEO of the Forbidden City, and the fraternity/sorority presi- national dialogue to poten- and potential participation of Small and Medium Urban League of Greater Great Wall, and traveled to dents met with high-level tially benefit African for our communities in Enterprises, State Ethnic New Orleans; Landri Xi’an, one of China’s old- China government offi- American communities. educational exchange, Affairs Commission of the Taylor, president and CEO est cities and the capital cials and civic leaders, and “It is critical for business and civic affairs, People’s Republic of of the Urban League of city in the Shaanxi toured historical cultural African Americans to par- is the first step in position- China, and the All-China Metropolitan Denver; and province located south- sites. ticipate in our globalized ing us to compete more Federation of Industry and Julia Wilson, CEO and west of Beijing with a (Jacksonville, Florida) world, said Marc Morial, effectively in this 21st Commerce. Founder of Wilson Global population of more than 8 – The Jacksonville Urban president and CEO of the Century of globalization.” The 2012 NUL dele- Communications, and million people. The dele- League led by Richard National Urban League. “I In China, the African gation was co-led by organizer of the trip who gation visited Xi’an’s cul- Danford participated in a am very pleased that American leaders were co- Warren Logan, president serves as the international tural excavation of the high-level, 16-member we’ve been able to suc- hosted by the China- and CEO of the Urban consultant for the National Terracotta Warriors dis- delegation of African cessfully lead a second United States Exchange League of Greater Urban League. covered in 1974 and dat- American leaders to China delegation of African Foundation (CUSEF), and Chattanooga, and Rev. In 2010, Marc Morial, ing back to the 3rd from Feb. 4 – 11, 2012. American leaders to the Chinese People’s Herman Mason, Jr., gener- president and CEO of the Century B.C. The China visit was the China. “We must expand Institute of Foreign Affairs al president of Alpha Phi National Urban League second national delegation beyond our civil rights (CPIFA). They met with Alpha Fraternity Inc. led the first delegation of sponsored by the National organization’s goals for China’s top government Members of the delegation African American leaders PAGE B 2 THE STAR FEBRUARY 18, 2012 embering Thos REAL LIFE STORIES Health Notes

WHAT HAPPENS when a beneficiary on a life insurance ULYSSES W. WATKINS JR., MD policy dies before the named insured dies? To understand HEALTH NOTES this question, one must first understand that there are three people on every life insurance policy; some of these three FOOD POISONING people may be the same person. 1) The owner of the policy is the one who purchases the policy and is responsible for Food poisoning is a term commonly used to describe ill- making premium payments and designating the beneficiary. nesses suspected of being caused by food contaminated with 2) The beneficiary is the person who will receive payment bacteria. It can affect several members of a household, mul- upon the death of the insured, and maybe the same person as tiple customers who dined at a particular restau'1'nt, nursing the owner. 3) The insured is the person whose death triggers home patients, or children in day care facilities. In the payment to the beneficiary. If the beneficiary dies before the insured and there some cases, symptoms can begin within 1 hour of eating the is no alternate beneficiary, then the policy proceeds are paid into the estate of the contaminated foods, others may take 8-16 hours and some may not begin insured. This is a situation where if the insured had a Will, the Will would deter- for 3-5 days. Symptoms similar to those caused by food poisoning can also be mine how the policy proceeds are distributed. If there is no Will, then the Florida caused by viral gastroenteritis, emotional stress, food allergy, drugs, hepatitis Probate Code would determine how the policy proceeds would be distributed. appendicitis or other disorders. SITUATION: Mary, as owner, purchased a life insurance policy on the life of her sister, Debra, the insured. Because she was the owner, Mary also designated her- Signs and symptoms include: self as the beneficiary of the policy. Mary made all premium payments on the pol- icy for 10 years until it was paid up and no further premium payments were • Nausea and vomiting required. Then Mary died. Five years later her sister, Debra (the insured) died. • Abdominal cramps or pain The life insurance company spent about one year sending correspondence to Mary • Diarrhea (sometimes bloody) requesting that she file a claim to collect the policy proceeds. It was finally deter- • Fever mined that Mary had died before Debra. It was then clear that an estate had to be • In severe cases, shock and collapse opened for Debra so that policy proceeds could be paid into the estate and distrib- uted in accordance with the Florida Probate Code. Causes includes bacterial organisms such as Salmonella, staphylococci, RESULT: Debra’s children were scattered around the Country with no clear clostridia, Escherichia coli, Bacillus cereus and others. Botulism is a rare, addresses or contact information. However, there was no information that they life-threatening form of food poisoning. were deceased. Therefore, when an estate was opened for Debra, the policy pro- ceeds where paid into the estate. However, none of the beneficiaries of the estate Risk factors include: (Debra’s children) could be located. Then, after one year, the money was paid by the probate Court into the unclaimed proceeds fund for the State of Florida. • Eating food that is improperly prepared or stored. • Lack of good hygiene when preparing food. PREPLANNING CAN HELP; WE CAN HELP: Our caring and professional • Drinking. water or eating raw foods when traveling to a foreign staff includes funeral directors, attorneys, counselors and insurance agents. country.

How to prevent food poisoning:

PREPLANNING SERVICS • Avoid raw seafood or meat SERVICES AT TIME OF DEATH • Don't consume raw or undercooked eggs. AFTERCARE SERVICES • Avoid unpasteurized dairy products. RROBATE OF ESTATES • Keep picnic foods cool, especially those made with mayonnaise. 529 Kingsley Avenue • Proper cook~ng and storage of foods. Keeping food preparation OrangePark, Florida 32073 areas, cutting boards and cooking utensils clean. (904) 264-1233 • Throwing out food items that are old, have an Mofr'smell or those in bivensfuneralhome.com bulging tin cans. • Attention to hand washing before preparing food. Staying Active In Retirement

(StatePoint) Despite the promise of ample free time, retirement is not something Community Activities everyone looks forward to with happy anticipation. Many approaching this life stage worry that the unstructured time will be tedious and unfulfilling. Announcements, meetings, happenings, and community events scheduled in Jacksonville and the surrounding area But there’s no need to fear a life of greater leisure.

There are many ways to make the most of one’s years after leaving the workforce, Museum and a Movie, Ritz Theatre and Museum, on Saturday, February 18, points out Sidney Silverman, a retired trial lawyer of 43 years and author of a new 2012, 829 N. Davis Street, Jacksonville, FL 32202. Call 904.632.55555 for more book of memoirs, “A Happy Life: From Courtroom to Classroom,” which he wrote information. when he was 76. SULZBACHER CENTER 8K RUN, The , on Saturday February 18, 2012, 2 Independent Dr. W., Jacksonville, FL 32202. Contact “I wanted to write only about my retirement but how could I do that without 904.353.1188 for additional information. telling what I did before retiring?” says Silverman whose book details his career GLADYS KNIGHT, , this Saturday, February 18, 2012, 128 E. and active retirement, during which he enrolled in graduate school, tried his hand Forsyth Street, Jacksonville, FL 32202. For additional information contact at tournament chess and wrote two books. 904.355.2787. THE KNIGHTS OF PETER CLAVER, INC UNIT #335 Present Their With this in mind, he is offering several tips to help make retirement the highlight Second Annualmardi Gras Affair @ Club Pure, 8206 PHILLIPS HWY, of your life: Sunday, Feb. 19th. Doors Open At 6:00pm. Show Starts At 7pm. Contact Person: Padrica Mendez, [email protected] or 904 403-2565. • Stay Active: Don’t let health problems become an excuse to sit around and stare LADYSMITH BLACK MAMBAZO IN CONCERT, Ritz Theatre and into space. Take stock of how you feel, and seek activities consistent with your Museum, on.Sunday, February 19, 2012, 829 N. Davis Street, Jacksonville, FL physical and mental strength. 32202. Contact 904.632.55555 for all information. SARAH PRAY AND THOMAS KIVI, Burro Bar, this Monday, February 20, • Take on New Hobbies: It’s never too late to discover new passions you didn’t 2012, 100 E. Adams St., Jacksonville, FL 32202. For additional information call have time to pursue when you were working. Test your fondness. Whether it’s 904.353.4686 . woodworking, music, photography or fishing, now that free time is plentiful, jump Jacksonville Entrepreneurship and Small Business Summit with B2B Match in head-first and pursue what you love. Making Event on February 21, 2012 from 8:30am-5:00pm. Visit http://indous- nefl.info/ for more details. • Volunteer: If unstructured time makes the hours of the day feel endless, look for Northwestern Friends and Family Night at the Ritz Theatre and Museum volunteer work that will keep you as actively engaged as when you worked. Ritz Theatre and Museum, thisTuesday, February 21, 2012, 829 N. Davis Street Jacksonville, FL 32202. For additional information contact 904.632.55555. • Keep Learning: You’re never too old to stop learning. There are many colleges DOWNTOWN TOP TO BOTTOM WALKING TOUR, The Jacksonville eager to admit seniors. All you need is the will to learn, advises Silverman Landing, on Tuesday, February 21, 2012, 2 Independent Dr. W., Jacksonville, FL 32202. Call 904.353.1188 for more details. • Stay Upbeat: Don’t be gloomy. Avoid making what ails you the focal point of THE OFFICIAL BLUES BROTHERS REVUE, Times Union Center for every conversation. Books, politics, sports, investments, real estate, and your fam- Performing Arts,Thursday, February 23, 2012, 300 W. Water Street, Jacksonville, ily are all healthy stand-in topics. FL 32202. Call 904.633.6110 for more information. AMERICAN PICKERS AT THE FLORIDA THEATRE, on Thursday • Try a Second Career: Become a published author or launch your own part-time February 23, 2012, Florida Theatre, 128 E. Forsyth Street, Jacksonville, FL consulting business, tutoring or catering company. For example, Silverman tack- 32202. led the challenge of writing his memoirs as well as a novel entitled, “What Money WHALE OF A SALE AND PREVIEW PARTY, this Frida,y February 24, 2012, Can Buy,” that satirizes the practices of financial firms which tossed our country Jacksonville Expo Center at the Fairgrounds, 510 Fairgrounds Place, Jacksonville, and the world into economic chaos. It explains the causes of the Great Recession FL 32202. Contact 904.353.0535 for additional information. and satirizes the political scene that followed. 1ST QUARTER JAXUSA PARTNERSHIP LUNCHEON, Hyatt Regency Jacksonville Riverfront, Friday, February 24, 2012, 225 E. Coastline Drive, • Find Your Peace: Your career was the time to stress out about deadlines, and Jacksonville, FL 32202. For additional details contact 904.588.1234. workflow. Retirement is the time to put that aside and think about that book you’re JACKSONVILLE LANDING MARKET, at The Jacksonville Landing, on reading, your golf swing or the next meal you want to cook. Friday, February 24, 2012, 2 Independent Dr. W., Jacksonville, FL 32202.

As Plato once said, “There are different stages in a man’s life.” By staying active, you can make retirement your best life stage yet. ***** FEBRUARY 18, 2012 THE STAR GEORGIA LOCAL SECTION - B BLACK HISTORY MONTH SPECIAL FEATURE Soaring To New Heights: Rev. Dr. Vincent Williams Makes History As First Black Brunswick College Founder

fect but we continue to strive. One thing I stress is that the integrity of this school is everything and make sure we do things right and in decency and in order.” Of course, behind every great man is a supportive great woman and with his anniversary coming up on March 1st, Dr. Williams is proud to have his wife Bridgette contribute to his works in the church and school. The fulltime senior cen- ter nurse is also a graduate of Wings of Faith, holding a Master’s in Divinity, Doctorate in Philosophy and a Bachelor’s in Counseling. The couple’s children Timothy and Ashley are in their church’s music and praise and worship ministry. Dr. Williams revealed that his wife will go from student body member to fac- ulty member in the next semester which begins March 5. “It’s going to be busier,” Mrs. Williams said of her life as the wife of a pas- tor and now his colleague at Wings of Faith. “Overall I enjoy it and we agree that a family that prays together, stays together. We do a whole lot of Dr. Vincent and Dr. Dr. Vincent and Wings of Faith graduates praying and we also make sure we Bridgette Williams have time well spent together. That quality time counts and that is By ARTHIA NIXON something we make sure mention Photos ANGELA FAVORS-MORRELL when we share with others. All in all we are focused and will contin- When Rev. Dr. Vincent Williams entered elementary school in the early ue to strive as we getting ready to 1970’s, he was among the second group of students to be a part of a newly integrat- launch some new things very ed educational system in south Georgia. Now, the little boy who was the grandson soon.” of the late Rev. Dr. R.J. Leggett, is the first African-American to own a tertiary level Wings of Faith is currently institution in Glynn County. accepting enrollment. For more Although he was born in Brunswick, Dr. Williams spent most of his youth in information, call 912-399-7538. Camden. He later graduated Brunswick High when he returned to the town to live with his grandfather who contributed to his spiritual growth. After attending Bethune-Cookman, Dr. Williams received his Master’s in Divinity and Doctorate in Philosophy. Following in his grandfather’s footsteps, he also went the pastoral route with his own ministry, Word of Faith Church. Now, his school, Wings Of Faith, is quickly gaining attention with students coming from as far away as mid-Georgia, near the border of Alabama and Ocala, Florida. Additionally, as the demand grows, plans are already underway to offer new courses as well as expand facilities to accommodate student increase. “One thing that I want to make clear, is that we are a faith-based institution,” said Dr. Williams. “We are not secular and all of our courses are geared towards God in several curriculums. In our certificate program we have Introduction to the Bible. In Bachelor’s program we offer courses such as the Glory of Living and the Life of Christ. Then in our Master’s we have Person and Work of The Holy Spirit and Spiritual Authority to name a few and in the Doctorate program we have Biblical Ethics, Church in The New Testament and Homoletics as some of our courses.” “Our mission is to educate those who desire to be educated in the Lord,” he explained. “We don’t teach any particular doctrine, we stick with the word of God and try not to get off into people’s beliefs but to simply teach the word of God.” “We actually started the vision for this school in 2008,” Dr. Williams told The Star in an interview earlier this week. “We then pursued the correct avenues to earn accreditation and now we are accredited with Faith Bible College in Maryland and the National Association of Biblical Counseling.” Dr. Williams said that he is blessed to know his grandfather, was alive to see the first set of graduates pass through Wings of Faith. “That inaugural graduating class had 10 students including my uncle Ryan Leggett,” recalled Dr. Williams. “Our most recent graduation had 60 students from certificate level all the way to Doctorate. And to tell you the truth, my students inspire me to continue the pursuit.” When asked what inspired him to launch the school in the first place, Dr. Williams replied: “I think the thing that inspired me most was after going back to school myself, I discovered there was a need to share God’s word with other people in the community. I felt there was a need for a faith-based institution in the area that was affordable and spiritual as well. I didn’t want to start a school for my personal gain. I really simply wanted to share the Word of God and expose people to some sense of biblical training regardless if they were ministers, deacons, Sunday school teachers or just people with a thirst. And I must say, we are open to anyone who wants to want to learn more of who God is and what He expects of us and how we can conduct ourselves as ambassadors for Christ.” One of the inspirational students who have left an impact of Dr. Williams is teenager Hannah Elder, who is the recipient of the school’s scholarship. “I am certainly proud of her and I am hoping that because of her commit- ment, other young people will be inspired,” he beamed. “She’s not in ministry or anything, but I can see her spiritual growth as a result of being in the school. Another student who inspired me was Elder Eddie Harmon. When he signed up, because he lived in Tifton, I asked if he can make it once a month and do the remainder of his course through correspondence. However, he said after the first class that he will be coming back and he did. I had another student from Ocala, Florida who will be com- ing back and a former school principal from Hazelhurst, Georgia. Then we have sev- eral from Savannah, Hinesville and Jesup as well as one who lives five minutes from the Alabama border who drive to and from each class. That speaks a level of unprecedented dedication and commitment from the students. It also speaks volumes to the quality of education that we are offering. I admire them for that.” Dr. Williams also admits that he loves teaching and seeing people when a “light goes off in their heads” and they see something they viewed before in a new light. And just what is it he wants to be remembered for? Dr. Williams shared: “I don’t really want people to remember me but I trust and pray that when I am no longer on the scene, that someone will continue to pick up the baton and continue to do the word of God. That’s my one wish. If I close my eyes today or tomorrow that they keep doing what we are doing. We are getting better all the time. We are not per- PAGE B-4 THE STAR FEBRUARY 18, 2012

BLACK HISTORY MONTH: Owner Announces Mark Nicole Lyons Lamping as President of the Jaguars In 2005, Nicole By John Oehser, jaguars.com Lyons became the first black female profes- The leadership of the Jaguars continues to evolve. sional stock racer. Mark Lamping, the President and Chief Executive of MetLife Stadium and She is also the first home to the and , on Monday was named President black woman in sever- of the Jaguars, Jaguars owner Shahid Khan announced in a statement Monday al categories of NHRA morning. drag racing and in Lamping’s position becomes effective February 27. NHRA D2 & D7 Top Khan, who took over as owner January 4, called the hiring “a very important and exciting development in Sportsman the only the Rebirth of the .” woman. “Mark will bring to the Jaguars and Jacksonville community a mix of sports and brand marketing, stadi- Off the track, she is um management expertise and team front-office leadership that is very difficult to find in one person,” Khan said. the Chief Executive Lamping will be responsible for all non-football facets of the organization, reporting to Khan. Jaguars General Manager Gene Smith will continue to report directly to Khan. Officer and President “The Jacksonville Jaguars have vast potential and I’m honored that Shad Khan is asking me to play a lead- of Cole Muscle Cars, ership role in reaching that potential,” Lamping said. an engine building and By ARTHIA Lamping, a native of St. Louis, has been with the MetLife Stadium group since 2008, when he was named muscle car restoration NIXON President/CEO of the New Meadowlands Stadium Company, LLC. He was responsible for the managing/devel- company. opment of the $1.6 billion stadium. She is also a fash- In light of this “Mark’s resume speaks for itself and I’m grateful to the Giants and Jets for making it possible for the ion model and has weekend’s Jaguars to present Mark with a new challenge and the prospect of success here in Jacksonville,” Khan said. been netted several Jacksonville major auto industry International Car and Defensive Back Walker Becomes Newest Member Of Sharks sponsors. Truck Show, we will Additionally, she is be taking a look at Daylan Walker has officially been assigned to the Jacksonville slated to star in a rac- Sharks’ 2012 roster. Nicole Lyons, an ing based television The 26-year-old Walker (5’9”, 187) most recently had two stints African-American show produced by with the B.C. Lions of the Canadian Football League. Signed by the woman making a name Marlon Wayans, of the Lions during the 2010 season, he was re-signed by the club in December for herself in a sport Wayans Brothers. of that year before being released prior to the 2011 season. made up of predomi- All in all, while Before joining the Lions, he signed with the as nately caucasion males paving the way for an undrafted free agent in May, 2010. The Falcons released Walker dur- - auto racing. women and blacks in ing training camp. Her beauty of the the auto world, Nicole Walker played collegiate football at Arkansas State University, where he appeared in 45 of the team’s 48 track and aggressive Lyons is giving a games in his four years. During his senior season in 2009, Walker recorded 51 tackles (40 solo), intercepted a on the track is earning whole new meaning to pass and led the Red Wolves with seven pass breakups. her a reputation as a the term ‘driven’. The previous year, he totaled a career-high 65 tackles (45 solo), an interception and five pass breakups. racing powerhouse. Born in Jackson, TN, Walker attended Milan High School. FEBEF B 17-1919 PRIME OSBORNOSBORN CONVENTIONCONVENTION CENCENTERN 2201220201222001201222 GULFGUGUULFF COASTCOAOAASTT GCGCAC SEE and COMPARE new 2012 models and 2013 previews

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Discount FREE Parking Coupons Courtesy at ĺ of ĺ Friday February 17 12 PM – 9 PM $10.00 Adults | $5.00 Children ages 6–12 Saturday February 18 10 AM – 9 PM Children under 6 admitted free Sunday February 19 10 AM – 6 PM $8.00 Seniors over 65 For moreoree information,iinformmmation, contaccocontact:cct: SIDD aatt ((904)9049904)4) 4470-8045.70-804555. www.JaxAutoShow.comwww .JaxAut hooS.JaxAut w.com or ccallallor 800-251-1563 FEBRUARY 18, 2012 THE STAR PAGE B-5 PAGE B-6 THE STAR FEBRUARY 18, 2012 OPINION THE FLORIDA STAR President Obama Calls on Congress to Partner THE GEORGIA STAR on Government Reform OWNER/PUBLISHER DESIGN AND WEB SITE PARTNER- CLARA McLAUGHLIN LEATH ALLEN PROCTOR Obama Administration Sends Congress the Consolidating and Reforming Government Act of 2012 MANAGEMENT “AROUND THE TOWN” WASHINGTON, DC – This afternoon, the Obama Administration sent Congress the Consolidating and LONZIE LEATH, RINETTA M. FEFIE FRANCES BRADLEY, VOLUME BURKES SALES & MARKETING Reforming Government Act of 2012, which would reinstate the authority Presidents held for decades to reorgan- G. ABRAMS, DENNIS WADE, SPECIAL SECTIONS ize and consolidate the Federal government. To guarantee that government reorganization will always result in a DAN EVANS TIA AYELE more efficient government, the President’s proposal adds a new requirement that any reorganization plan must OFFICE/ACCOUNTS MANAGER SPORTS EDITOR SHIQUITA WILSON MIKE BONTS save money or reduce the size of government. As President Obama first announced last month, the LAYOUT EDITOR COLUMNS Administration’s proposal would allow the President to put forward, for expedited consideration by Congress, MAY E. FORD YOLANDA KNUCKLE plans to consolidate and reform the Federal government for the 21st century, making it leaner, smarter and more CRIME & JUSTICE GEORGIA MARKETING KEVIN KIM ANGELA FAVORS MORRELL consumer friendly. CARIBBEAN NEWS/SPECIAL LAYOUT DISTRIBUTION President Obama said, “To support an economy that’s built to last, we need a government that’s built for the ARTHIA NIXON DAVID SCOTT Investigative Reporter: Lonzie Leath 21st Century. We cannot allow redundant bureaucracy and unnecessary red tape to stand in the way of creating Reporters/Photographers: Marsha Phelts, Laurence Greene, good jobs here at home, providing critical services for America’s families, and exporting America’s goods and F. M. Powell, III, Michael Phelts, Richard McLaughlin, services around the world. That’s why today I am calling on Congress to join me in reforming our government by Andrea F. K. Ortiz, Angela Morrell, and Cheryl Williams passing the Consolidating and Reforming Government Act.” Columnists: Ulysses Watkins, Jr., M.D., Ester Davis, Lucius Gantt, Ask Deanna, Cynthia Ferrell, Delores Mainor Woods, Farris Long In January, the President announced that, if Congress reinstates the authority to reorganize government, his Distribution and Sales: Abeye Ayele, Cassie Williams, first action would be to make it easier for America’s job creators to access the services they need to grow and Shiquita Wilson, David Scott export. The President laid out a plan to bring together six agencies focused on business and trade and a handful TEL: (904) 766-8834 of other related programs into a single more efficient and effective department with a laser-like focus on promot- FAX: (904) 765-1673 [email protected] ing American business and competitiveness, while sav- (912) 264-3137 Georgia Serving St. Johns, Clay, Duval, Nassau, EMPLOYMENT OPPORTUNITIES ing taxpayers $3 billion dollars. 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Fkf"{qw"mpqy"vjcv"vjg"hktuv"vkog"vjcv"Dnwgu"Owuke ku" tgeqtfgf" dgkpi" ecnngf" Dnwgu" ycu" jgtg" kp Lcemuqpxknng."kp"3;27"cv"vjg"qnf"Ckt"Ftqog"Pkijvenwd Ot0"C0"N0"Ngyku kp"NcXknncA FEBRUARY 18 , 2012 THE STAR C&J 1 CrimeCrime andand JusticeJustice A Publication of the Florida Star and Georgia Star

As an African - American newspaper, we basically report on offenses committed by African - Americans. Please note that in our observations, weekly reports show that African - Americans DO NOT commit the largest percentage of criminal offenses in this area. Man Kidnaps Woman He Met Online and Her Three Children Man Shot and Killed by Police

In the late afternoon hours, police were flagged down to An armed man was shot and killed by po- a location about a possible kidnapping of a mother and her three lice after he refused to follow orders multiple children, ages four, one and nine months. The victim’s sister times. told police that her sister contacted a friend stating that she and At around 2:10 a.m., two officers were her children were being held against their will and she needed working in an off duty capacity, in full police uni- help. The sister contacted police and went to the victim’s apart- Nicholas form at a club and received information that a sus- ment with two patrol officers. At that time, the suspect, Underwood pect was in the parking lot with a gun. The club Rasheim Dolton Rasheim Dolton, observed marked patrol units in the area and had ended and the parking lot was full of people. Police believe left the scene with the victim and her three children. 24-year-old Nicholas Underwood had just gotten out of the club The sister, as well as police, contacted the victim several times via cel- from a fight and went to his car to retrieve a gun. Underwood lular telephone. The victim stated she was heading to Florida from Georgia to was located with a gun walking back to the club. hand out music fliers. The victim was very evasive with her answers but was Officer Michael D. Peterson approached Underwood and able to answer that she was not ok. From that point on, the victim would not an- repeatedly ordered him to stop, drop the gun, and get on the swer further questions. ground. Underwood refused to comply with every one of his Investigative techniques gave police indicators that the victim was trav- commands and Peterson opened fire, shooting him five times. eling in Georgia and was not headed back to Florida. Around 9:00 p.m. after re- Underwood was deceased at the scene. ceiving a BOLO (Be On Look Out) for the victim’s vehicle, Georgia State Patrol Officer Peterson was placed on administrative leave and were able to locate and stop the vehicle. Dolton was listed under his alias name, this was the first time in 12 years that he had shot someone. Luther Ogletree, and was driving the vehicle with the woman and three chil- Records show that Underwood had never been arrested, dren as passengers. He was taken into custody. but had been charged with a few misdemeanors. Investigation revealed that the victim met Dolton and a friend on her Model Mayhem webpage online about a month ago. He came to her residence approximately three weeks ago and held her against her will. He then produced a handgun and threatened to kill her and her three children if she told police. The victim stated the suspect stayed in her apartment the last three weeks and did not let her leave without being with her. Dolton was monitoring her phone calls and text messages and he would tell her what to say and how to respond. The victim was not allowed to speak to anyone outside of his presence. The victim was able to use a phone at a business while she was paying her electric bill. Dolton stayed in the vehicle with her three children and threat- ened to kill her and her children if she told anyone or police what was happen- ing. The victim was able to make contact with a friend to get a hold of her sister and tell her the situation. When the friend got a hold of the sister, she contacted police. Dolton has prior charges of 4 Kidnapping counts out of Tennessee, Kid- napping out of Atlanta as well as various other charges including False Impris- onment, Carrying a Concealed Firearm, Drug Charges that he has served time for. The suspect is a registered sex offender in Georgia. This is an ongoing active investigation. FEBRUARY 18 , 2012 THE STAR C&J 2 From Actual Police Reports SSSHH! DidDid YouYou HearHear About?...About?... EDITOR’S NOTE: All suspects are deemed innocent unless proven guilty in a court of law. The Sheriff’s Office reports are a matter of public record. The Star seeks to educate in the hope of keeping our community safe. Woman Hit in Mall Shooting Your Safety An innocent bystander was wounded after being caught in the middle of a shoot- Internet Crime Prevention ing inside a mall. 18-year-old Keith Anthony Brown was Internet crime schemes that steal millions of dollars each year from victims con- said to be in a Finish Line store with two tinue to plague the Internet through various methods. Following are preventative other individuals at about 12:45 p.m. One measures that will assist you in being informed prior to entering into transactions over the Internet: of the men Brown came with, spotted a 21- year-old man with his girlfriend at one Auction Fraud: Keith Brown point. The target apparently was someone • Before you bid, contact the seller with any questions you have. Brown had a conflict with in the past and Brown fired three • Review the seller's feedback. shots. He missed all three times and instead hit Manisa • Be cautious when dealing with individuals outside of your own country. Sapkota, 34, who was working at a nearby kiosk. • Ensure you understand refund, return, and warranty policies. • Determine the shipping charges before you buy. Sapkota survived and now has a bullet lodged in her • Be wary if the seller only accepts wire transfers or cash. right shoulder. All three men fled from the scene, but the whole • If an escrow service is used, ensure it is legitimate. incident was caught on surveillance video. The victim and his • Consider insuring your item. girlfriend were able to help police identify the shooter. • Be cautious of unsolicited offers. Police arrested Brown and charged him with attempted Credit Card Fraud: murder of Sapkota, and another attempted murder of his • Ensure a site is secure and reputable before providing your credit card number intended target. He is also being charged with possession of a online. firearm by a delinquent felon. • Don't trust a site just because it claims to be secure. Brown has prior felony arrests as a juvenile which • If purchasing merchandise, ensure it is from a reputable source. include Possession of a Firearm on School Property when he • Promptly reconcile credit card statements to avoid unauthorized charges. was 10, Carrying a Concealed Firearm (two times), Armed • Do your research to ensure legitimacy of the Trespass, and Burglary in 2009. individual or company. The two other men were identified, but have not yet • Beware of providing been arrested yet. credit card information Investigation is still ongoing. when requested through unsolicited emails. Woman Arrested for Tax Fraud and Identity Theft DHL/UPS • Beware of individuals A woman was arrested for 17 counts of using the DHL or UPS logo identity theft and tax fraud. in any email communica- In addition to filing her own false tax tion. return, Belinda Brooks, 46, stole the names and • Be suspicious when pay- Social Security numbers of other individuals in ment is requested by money transfer before the order to file fraudulent tax returns in their goods will be delivered. names and obtain tax refunds for the tax years • Remember that DHL and 2008 and 2009. She cheated her victims out of UPS do not generally get Would you like to stay connected with your loved Belinda Brooks anywhere between $1,000 to almost $10,000. involved in directly collect- ones on lock down in jail, or prison? According to reports, Brooks was arrested and charged in a ing payment from cus- Anyone gone but not forgotten that you want to 17-count indictment. The charges include one count of filing a false tomers. encourage? Get connected and keep a • Fees associated with DHL CONNECTION through our new tax return, six counts of theft of government property in the form of or UPS transactions are CONNECTION spot. tax refunds, six counts of aggravated identity theft, three counts of only for shipping costs and Call, Write, Email, or Fax to us titled: making false claims in the form of fraudulent tax returns, and three never for other costs asso- CONNECTION, $10 - 3 lines of text only counts of identity theft. ciated with online transac- (Total 18 words) With PICTURE included $25. The maximum federal prison sentence for each of the counts tions. • Contact DHL or UPS to Contact G’ @ 904-766-8834 or Email is as follows: 10 years for theft of government property, two years confirm the authenticity of [email protected] send all correspondence to consecutive to any other sentence for aggravated identity theft, five email communications P.O. Box 40629, Jacksonville, FL 32203 years for making a false claim, and 15 years for identity theft. received. FEBRUARY 18, 2012 THE STAR C&J 3 BizarreBizarre CrimesCrimes who, what, when...huh?

Man Uses Baby as Shield Woman Helps Cyclist, Then Punches and Robs Her

A man was arrested after attacking his girlfriend then A woman was arrested for punching and rob- using their baby as a shield when police arrived to scene. bing another woman after pretending to save her A woman had called police and said that her from a car. boyfriend, Bobby L. McCormick, 31, strangled her, Police said a woman was walking down the punched her in the face, kidnapped their baby, threatened street with her bicycle and after being sideswiped to kill her, and burn down her apartment, while her chil- by a car, 41-year-old April Michelle Cottman of- dren were inside. April fered to help her. Cottman, instead, punched the Bobby Police arrived and found McCormick with a baby in Cottman woman in the face and snatched her purse. She McCormick his arms about a block away from the apartment. The of- then ran to her house nearby, while the victim and a witness chased ficers ordered McCormick to put the baby down, but he would not listen. In- her. stead, he told them to shoot him and when an officer pointed a gun at him, The victim and witness were lead right to the home address, he shielded himself using the baby. immediately revealing Cottman’s location. Police were called and The officer put his gun away and decided to pull out his Taser gun. Cottman was arrested when they arrived. The purse and wallet were Police were able to pull the baby out of McCormick’s arms after briefly returned to the victim, according to the report. struggling and wrestling with him to the ground. He tried to resist arrest and Cottman is facing a charge of robbery and may be held on more officers came to help in detaining him $15,000 bond. McCormick was charged with battery by strangulation, child abuse, According to the report, the unidentified victim had a swollen battery, false imprisonment and resisting an officer with violence. mouth with cut, bloody lips. Other Unusual Crimes Across the Nation

Burglar Breaks into Home, Cooks, and Does Laundry Woman Reads Bible to Attacker Who Slits Her Throat South Bend, IN- Ashley Murray had come home one night to find the Shelby, NC- Lindsay Wood, 32, had just come home from Bible lights in her apartment on. She thought her brother was home, but she was study. An intruder walked into her home and slit her throat for no ap- faced with Keith Davis, 46, instead. She told him that police would come, parent reason. Wood’s son was outside dropping off the trash and but she then realized Davis had cooked some chicken and onions in a pan, when he saw what happened, he ran to the side of the house. Wood folded her clothes up, and vacuumed the floors. The police also noted that he seemed to begged for her life and asked the attacker to not hurt her or her son. She then started be a good chef. When asked what he was doing in the home, Davis kept stating that he reading from the bible for about an hour and a half and the attacker apologized and was in his own home. Davis had not stolen anything, but only the food. Davis was arrested and charged with breaking and entering, a Class D felony. A $5,000 bond was requested left. Wood was finally able to call police and she was taken to the hospital to be by Prosecutors, but the judge ended up lowering it to $1,000. Murray and the police be- treated. Police arrested the attacker a week later and also arrested Wood’s son saying lieve Davis may have been on drugs. that both planned the attack together. Police believe Wood’s 15-year-old son wanted Mother Caught Trying to Smother Her Baby to Death in Hospital her killed and hid during the whole incident, purposely not getting any help. Charleston, SC- Chevonne Youngineer, 17, brought her daughter to the Boy Beaten to Death Because He Wouldn’t Vacuum hospital saying that she just had a near death incident. They were taken to Pittsburgh, PA- Anthony Bush, 29, who is six feet and five inches, a room and Youngineer later told the nurses that her daughter was not was said to have brutally beaten his girlfriend’s 11-year-old son for breathing. Hospital staff rushed into the room and found the baby strug- nine hours because he would not vacuum the apartment. Bush used gling to breathe. Pieces of cotton wool were found in her throat and the girl was vomit- sticks and belts to beat him. While the beating was taking place, the ing them back up. When the surveillance footage from the room was reviewed, they found boy’s five year old brother witnessed everything. Later Cynthia McKee returned that Youngineer took cotton from a teddy bear to shove it down her baby’s mouth and then home to find her son naked, bloody, and barely breathing on the floor. When police she covered baby’s face with a blanket. The child could be seen struggling for breath. arrived, they found blood-stained sheets, tissues, a belt, wood sticks, metal bars and Yougineer was arrested and she claimed to have saved the baby’s life twice while in the hospital and many other occasions. She is being charged with unlawful conduct towards blood on the ceiling and walls of the boy’s bedroom. Bush admitted to the beating. a child and was released on $10,000 with her child placed in protective custody. The boy was taken to the hospital where he was pronounced dead. FEBRUARY 18, 2012 THE STAR C&J 4 CriminalCriminal Line-UpLine-Up MISSING CHILDREN

Name: Shawn R C Mitchell Name: Latifah Tierrah Name: Destinee Rochelle Name: Empress Mercedez Name: Kyle Stewart Age: 18 Dames Wilkerson Jackson Age: 17 Weight: 144 lbs Age: 16 Age: 17 Age:17 Weight: 160 lbs Last seen: 1/03/12 Weight: 140 lbs Weight: 100 lbs Weight: 160 lbs Last seen: 1/31/12 Last seen: 2/04/12 Last seen: 2/02/12 Last seen: 2/05/12 ON THE LOOKOUT KFC Robbery Suspect

Police responded to a robbery at Kentucky Fried Chicken

Investigation revealed prior to the store opening, the suspect encountered an employee in the parking lot and forced him back inside the restaurant. Once inside the suspect robbed the business of money.

The unknown suspect was described as a black male, early to mid 20’s, 5’6” to 5’7”, 130 to 140 pounds, with a medium skin complexion. He was wearing large black sunglasses with diamonds on the side. The sunglasses appeared to be women’s sunglasses.

Anyone with any information about the incident is asked to contact Crime Stoppers at 1- 866-845-TIPS or email at [email protected]. You will remain anonymous and receive a possible reward if your tip leads to an arrest.

MOST WANTED

EVERY FRIDAY Channel 99 @ 10:30pm • Get your story to the public. • Help reduce crime. • Expose your talents. Contact: (904) 437-0309 Email: [email protected] Name: Darryl Allen Name: Laclinteon Allen Name: Brian Keith Offense: Child Abuse Offense: Felony Battery Anderson www.STVUYT.com Offense: Credit Card Fraud Be Useful, Never Giving In. Get Involved Today

Citizens with tips are encouraged to call Crime Stoppers at 1-866-845-TIPS. You can remain anonymous and become eligible for a reward. FEBRUARY 18, 2012 THE STAR PR - 1 3,000 Students Attend Red Tails Screening for Black History Month “The movie inspired the students, challenged ple achieve things no matter what. It doesn’t them and encouraged them to persevere. On our matter where you come from or what color ride home they chanted ‘we fight, we fight.’ I asked you are or the race,” said eighth grader what are we fighting for and they responded their Maria Hernandez. education and future.” – Principal Germaine Jack- In attendance were Red Tails actors son DeCree, Lou Dantzler High School - Nate Parker, Andre Royo and Marcus T. Paulk. “Seeing those 3,000-plus young peo- (BLACK PR WIRE) – TORRANCE, Calif.-- ple engaged in a film that promotes excel- (BUSINESS WIRE)--To launch Black History lence, education and perseverance was an Month, 3,000 students from Southern California indescribable feeling!” said Parker. He es- Photo: Business Wire- Students join Tuskegee Airmen School Districts attended a screening of Red Tails pecially applauded the contributions that and cast of RED TAILS at screening across 18 screens at the AMC Del Amo Theatre on made a school event like this possible. “I youth across the nation have an opportunity to see February 1, 2012. The George Lucas-produced ac- was deeply moved to learn that one gentleman made Red Tails during Black History Month.” tion-adventure film is inspired by the true story of this event possible with his generous donation to In theaters now, Red Tails is directed by An- the Tuskegee Airmen, the first all-African Ameri- Variety. It is my hope to see that more people like thony Hemingway and executive produced by can military aviators and support crew in history him join forces to ensure that other underserved George Lucas. who served with distinction in World War II. Joining the students were original Tuskegee Airmen and members of the film’s cast. The event came courtesy of the Vari- ety Children’s Charity and was organized by Wini Jackson, an advocate in service to children. “Everyone came out of the movie with an appreciation and under- standing of the heroic contributions of the Airmen,” said Jackson. “I heard students say to the original Tuskegee Airmen that were in attendance, ‘Thank you for what you did for us.’” Ted Lumpkin and Levi Thornhill, both original Tuskegee Airmen, recounted their experiences to students, offering wise advice. “Education is the key,” said Thornhill. “Pay attention. If you got that, you don’t have to worry. You’ll never go hungry.” Educators agreed that the action- packed film connected with the students. “The power of cinema held their atten- tion,” said Dolores Sheen, Principal of Sheenway School and Culture Center. “Some asked if there was a second part to the story. I told them that they were the second part to the story.” “I used to be a person who thought I couldn’t achieve things but I see that peo- FEBRUARY 18, 2012 PREP RAP PR - 2 Former Corporate Exec Says It’s Never by writing articles for trade journals, magazines and newspapers. That led to her being drafted by actor Buddy Ebsen to help him with his first Too Late to Change Careers novel, a love story called Kelly’s Quest. Ebsen was working on a second, a mystery based on his popular TV persona detective Barnaby Jones, when he With 7 million Americans receiving unemployment benefits, and many died in 2003. His widow asked Quinn to finish the book, Sizzling Cold Case, counting the years – instead of months – since their layoff, author Darlene which was published in 2006. Quinn says now is a good time to reinvent yourself. By now, Quinn was ready for her own tale. She cites James Sherk, a senior policy analyst for the Heritage Foundation, “I felt compelled to tell the story of our vanishing department stores,” she who says the jobs people held two or three years ago often simply aren’t there said. “Instead of writing a dour tell-all about the business, I decided to chron- anymore. icle my experiences in one of my fictional worlds and I filled that landscape "People are trying to find jobs similar to what they had previously, when with the realistic and dynamic characters that inhabited my daily life. those jobs completely don't exist,” he told Reuters recently. “So they will spend “The age of computers with spell-checking software helped me get over a good portion of their period unemployed looking for jobs that they are un- my fear of a red-inked manuscript.” likely to find." By 2008, Quinn had finished her story of intrigue in the retail fashion busi- Quinn is a master of personal reinvention. She started her career as a ness. Webs of Power won a 2009 National Indie Excellence Award the fol- teacher, then became a contractor, developing self-improvement and model- lowing year. Twisted Webs followed in 2010. ing programs for hospitals and a store. That segued into a position as a top ex- “One thing I’ve learned in my life is that things change,” Quinn said. “Peo- ecutive at Bullocks Wilshire department store and “retirement” as a freelance ple change and, sometimes, their dreams have to change with them. journalist. “To be releasing my third novel at age 74 is the fulfillment of a dream I And now, the 74-year-old is an award-winning novelist. She published her never knew I had. Until now.” third book, Webs of Fate (www.darlenequinn.net), this fall, continuing her se- ries about deceit and intrigue in the high-end retail industry. She says she was always a story-teller; she just never thought about putting Wish to give us a News Story her stories on paper. relating to the Youth of our “Being a victim of the short-lived educational phenomenon called sight- reading, which did not include phonics, I had always been intimidated by the community? written word,” she said. “Somehow none of my teachers appreciated my creativity when it came to spelling. Therefore, my creative writing efforts were sprinkled with so many red marks, they appeared to have broken out with the measles.” Send it to: Maybe, she added, she just needed a great story to tell and a passion to tell [email protected] it that was stronger than her fear. Quinn became a schoolteacher after earning a bachelor’s at San Jose State or University. Much later in life, while working as a department store executive during a time of tremendous upheaval in the retail fashion industry, she found [email protected] her story. But before she tried to tell it, she first sharpened her wit and her pen

FAMILY FRIENDS AND COLLEAGUES, lishing at Holt Rhinehart and Winston editing You are invited to a very special event. textbooks. He was a senior editor at William Morrow and director of Morrow Paperback edi- Roslyn "Auntie Roz" Burrough hosts Black His- tions. While there, he acquired the edited tory Event at her Home books by Mari Evans, Nikki Giovanni, Vincent Conversation with Phil Petrie Sr. Harding, and Orlando Patterson. Petrie then Author: Tips and Maxims for Living a took a position at the Howard University Press Principled Life as its executive editor. He also worked in mag- A guide for my children azine publishing as a contributing editor for February 26, 3:00p.m. Essence and editor of Black Enterprise. He Tea and Cider Sip was interim editor of the Crisis in 2001 and Bring a Teen & $20.00 to purchase the book- 2007. Call for reservations 904 713 0885 Roslyn Burrough About the Author Auntie Roz Children's Workshop Phil W. Petrie Sr. is an editor and writer by (904) 713-0885 business; (904) 707-5201 profession. He began his career in book pub- cell. www.AuntieRoz.com FEBRUARY 18, 2012 PREP RAP PR - 3 FEBRUARY 18, 2012 THE STAR PR - 4 University of Wyoming Fall Semester Provost’s Honor Still I Rise: A Live Black History Encounter Roll: Florida Through this exhibit of live sights, sound and dramatic reenact- The University of Wyoming lists two students from Florida on the ments, you will take a journey into the history of this nation. You will live 2011 fall semester Provost’s Honor Roll. the history and experience it as if you were there. We invite you to be a The Provost’s Honor Roll consists of undergraduates who have com- part of something that has never been done before. Something that will pleted at least six but fewer than 12 hours with a minimum 3.5 grade bring the entire city of Jacksonville together. This event will foster unity point average for the semester. and diversity. It will motivate and encourage our youth to strive for a For more information about the University of Wyoming visit bright future. www.uwyo.edu. It will be February 24-25, 2012 @ The Church Fellowship, 8809 Students are: Lem Turner Road. Doors open @ 7pm and show begins at 7:30. Tickets Jacksonville are $5 in advance and $8 at the door. Janelle Ida-Lynn Klemm Lakeland Michael Dylan Powers Duval County Public Schools, the Jack- sonville Sheriff’s Office and The SELF Move- ment Partner with Allstate Foundation to Launch Teen Safe Driving Video Contest

Local Organizations Team Up to Put Corporate Grant to Work in the Public Education System

Duval County Public Schools, the Jacksonville Sheriff’s Office, and local non-profit organization, The SELF Movement, announced a partnership today to launch a Teen Safe Driving Video Contest in Duval County. The contest offers individuals or teams of up to four students more than $3,000 in scholarships and prizes. The first-place winner will designate a Duval County public high school in advance to receive a $1,000 grant for a student-focused improvement project of the school’s choice. The video contest provides an opportunity for teens to educate their peers on the dangers of distracted or impaired driving. Students are asked to create a 30-60 second video, which must be submitted to The SELF Movement’s YouTube channel by midnight on March 17, 2012. The public will select seven finalists from April 7 – 22, 2012 and a local panel of judges will select three additional finalists. The finalists and honorable mention candidates will be announced by May 5, 2012 in ad- vance of a formal red carpet award ceremony later that month. The Teen Safe Driving Video Contest will also raise funds to ben- efit the Duval County Public Schools’ driver education program. The fi- nancial support for both the video contest and updated driver education resource material will be provided in part by a $10,000 donation from the Allstate Foundation. To learn more about the Teen Safe Driving Video Contest, in- cluding the official rules and registration, visit www.theselfmovement.org.