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2011-02-24

The Weekly Challenger : 2011 : 02 : 24

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COMMUNITY COMMUNITY SPORTS STATE Caring for the Soul with Vikki T. Taskin-Butler 4 Jack and Jill Black History Month Presentation 4 Newton Ready to Fully Participate in NFL Combine 8 VP Biden’s Black History Month Celebration 9 50¢

We Value Diversity. We Value Education. We Value History. St. Petersburg • Clearwater • Largo • Tarpon Springs • Dunedin • Safety Harbor VOLUME 43 NUMBER 26 FEBRUARY 24 - MARCH 2, 2011 ST. PETERSBURG, FLORIDA Reactions To Another SPPD The Olive B. McLin Officer Killing Community History Project: Bus To Destiny SPECIAL TO THE labor was largely supplied by CHALLENGER REPRINT black men recruited from Georgia BUS TO DESTINY and other areas of the south. Black workers also laid the brick for S T. PETERSBURG - city streets while others were Throughout the year, there are employed as stevedores and hotel many opportunities to celebrate bell-hops. This gave birth to the Rep. Darryl Rouson Comm. Kenneth T. Welch the traditions and richness of the first black businesses. Smith’s St. Petersburg’s African-American Café provided box lunches and BY GYPSY C. GALLARDO want solutions. And not the community. During a 1997 weekly meal tickets for working SPECIAL TO THE knee-jerk reactionary stuff community fair held at the James men. CHALLENGER that’s anathema to real B. Sanderlin Center, project organ- As the black population progress. Unlike the high- izers explained the upcoming expanded and the city itself ST. PETERSBURG - In the profile imbroglios past that Community History Project, Bus became more settled, St. wake of the record-breaking pitted white against black with To Destiny. The project was to Petersburg adopted Jim Crow seg- reality of a third killing of a St. charges of police brutality, this educate future generations about regationist attitudes and laws that Petersburg police officer this time, there’s no ranting. No their history and heritage, to build were commonplace throughout past Monday, the consensus rallies planned (except the community involvement and to the South. reaction is “Let’s move forward massive prayer service being build community pride. Many blacks settled in Pepper to solutions.” The sentiment is held this Sunday). And “No one was better qualified Town and Methodist Town. both practical and psychologi- certainly no charges of racism to chronicle the history of this During the mid-teens, the city cal, as community leaders, jour- or police impropriety. Just community than the people who built a new hospital for its white nalists and clergy wrestle to get practical, forward-thinking. have lived here,” Jeanie Blue, population and the old building, their heads and arms wrapped Here’s a quick round up of former Juneteenth president the forerunner to Mercy Hospital, around an unprecedented reactions by community leaders expressed. Residents of Bartlett was moved to 4th Avenue South at sequence of events. – black and white. Park, Harbordale, Thirteenth 12th Street, along Booker Creek. Three officers killed. By “There are two things on Street Heights, Campbell Park, “The five-room cottage represent- two black men. In less than five my heart. First, let’s be careful Cromwell Heights and others ed the first institutional care for weeks time. Two shot and not to manufacture a racial worked with students and faculty blacks in the city.” killed by Hydra Lacy, Jr. on divide. The reactions to both at the University of South Florida In the 1920s post World War I Olive B. McLin January 24th in a drama of epic incidents have been racially to document and pass on the affluence and the mass production proportions. The third shot distinct, but there is no history of the St. Petersburg of Henry Ford’s Motel T Ford, black doctors and a black dentist. Blacks and whites had dead this February 21st by evidence of a racial divide or community. which made travel affordable to Among the best remembered separate schools, churches, clubs, sixteen year old Nicholas allegations of racism, as I’ve 1900-1920 Explosive growth the masses, created a second early black-owned businesses and neighborhoods in the 1920s. Lemmon Lindsey now in heard intimated by at least one defined the 1990s to 1920s with building boom. Most black were Mr. Larry’s Pressing Club, Blacks could not sit on the famed custody after confessing to the journalists. The second, and the arrival of Peter Demen’s workers were employed as con- Blue’s Grocery Store, Hughes green benches which lined city crime. more important point, is that Orange Belt Railroad in 1888. struction laborers or domestics and Hotel, Joseph Albury’s photogra- streets or visit the new Million Before this, St. Petersburg there are people who are From 1888 to 1900, St Petersburg cooks and lived in abject poverty. phy studio, McRae’s Funeral Dollar Pier. This “color line” also hadn’t had an officer killed in working, and have been grew from less than 30 people to However, by 1920 a small but Home and Loomis Williams’s denied whites access to black the line of duty in 30 years. It working, on sustainable, 1,575 permanent residents. By notable black middle class began “Chicken Shack.” Elder Jordan neighborhoods and businesses. hadn’t had two officers die systemic changes to reduce 1910, the population totaled 4,127, to emerge comprised of teachers, Sr. owned much property in the together since the 1930s. approximately 26 percent of apartment building owners, land- 1920s and 1930s and his family Indeed, all engines are REACTION whom were black. developers, restaurateurs, and operated a bus line which carried MCLIN firing among the folks who continued on pg. 9 The demand for construction insurance agents. There were two blacks back and forth from Tampa. continued on pg. 3 Rep. John Lewis, Civil Rights Icon, Awarded Highest Civilian Honor

W ASHINGTON - attacked and struck him in the W arren Buffett, an Opinion ...... 2 (TriceEdneyWire.com) - Civil head on “bloody Sunday”, American investor, industrialist, Rights hero Rep. John Lewis March 7, 1965, during the and philanthropist. He is one (D-Ga.) has been awarded the march across the famous of the most successful investors highest honor civilian - the Edmund Pettus bridge in a in the world. Community News ...... 3-7 Presidential Medal of Freedom. march from Selma to American artist Jasper He was granted the 2010 Medal Montgomery, Ala. Johns, who has produced a dis- of Freedom in a ceremony at the Other Award recipients tinguished body of work dealing White House hosted by were: with themes of perception and President Barack Obama and President George H. W. identity since the mid-1950s. Sports...... 8 the First Lady Michelle Obama Bush, as 41st President of the Gerda Weissmann Klein, a Feb. 15. The award is United States. Jewish Holocaust survivor who “presented to individuals who Chancellor Angela Merkel, has written several books about have made especially meritori- the Chancellor of the Federal her experiences. State/Natl. News...... 9 ous contributions to the security Republic of Germany. Dr. Tom Little (Posthumous), or national interests of the John H. Adams, who co- an optometrist who was brutally United States, to world peace, founded the Natural Resources murdered on August 6, 2010, by Rep. John Lewis or to cultural or other significant Defense Council in 1970. the Taliban in the Kuran Wa Church Directory....10, 11 public or private endeavors,” Dr. Maya Angelou, a Munjan district of Badakhshan, world’s greatest living cellist, according to the White House. prominent and celebrated Afghanistan, along with nine recognized as a prodigy since Lewis is best known for his author, poet, educator, producer, other members of a team the age of five whose celebrity work with the Student actress, filmmaker, and civil returning from a humanitarian transcends the world of classical Church News ...... 11 Non-Violence Coordinating rights activist, who is currently mission to provide vision care Committee, largely responsible the Reynolds Professor of in the remote Parun valley of for sit-in protests. Lewis was American Studies at Wake Nuristan. HONOR injured when a police officer Forest University. Yo-Yo Ma, considered the continued on pg. 9

How To Reach Us: News: [email protected] • Advertising: [email protected] • Phone: (727) 896-2922 • Fax: (727) 823-2568 2 THE WEEKLY CHALLENGER, THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 24, 2011 The Weekly Challenger Newspaper The Weekly Challenger We Value Diversity. We Value Education. We Value History. • A knowledge of history brings a feeling of fellowship that runs through the ages — be it a territory, a village, a district, or a nation. • To live without history is likened to living without a form of memory. • To be without history is to live without roots or a past, with the present having no real foundation, and very little meaning for the future. • To know the events of our past (can help us) to know what future events can be. The Weekly Challenger Office: • The Weekly Challenger is committed to featuring articles of all ethnic cultures for the reading enjoyment of both the young and old generations. 2500 Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. Street South St. Petersburg, FL 33705 (727) 896-2922 Fax (727) 823-2568 OPINION Email: [email protected] www.theweeklychallenger.com How Can Kids Get New Perspective Readership: 100,000 monthly

THE BLACK PRESS believes that America can best From The Founding Fathers? lead the world from racial antagonism when it accords to every man, regardless of race, creed or color, his human As the U.S. educational system have always been here. They’re are some concepts in the he said. “We need to be creative in and legal rights. Hating no man, fearing no man... the is buffeted by calls for an overhaul, like the couch or the chair — Declaration of Independence that how we teach history today, so we Black Press strives to help every man in the firm belief rallied by documentaries like they’re pieces of furniture that are can help our kids understand better can translate the excitement of our that all men are hurt as long as anyone is held back. Waiting For Superman, people are normal to use. Freedom works the the difference between the United past into relevance in the present, beginning to think about new ways same way. When you’re born into a States and other countries. but we need to take care that we to teach old concepts. free country, it’s difficult to find the “Something most people don’t don’t fall into the trap of leaving That’s why Jeff Wendt, history struggle fought by our Founding realize is when our Founding out the blemishes, either. buff and co-author, along with his Fathers as relevant, so it’s impera- Fathers wrote in the Declaration of Remember, those who do not read wife and illustrator Lindsay Wendt, tive that we find new ways to Independence that ‘all men are history are typically doomed to created the children’s book George introduce our kids to the concept of created equal’ and have ‘certain repeat it, and we don’t want that for and Marty’s Awesome Adventures: freedom.” unalienable rights’ it was the first our future generations.” America’s Amazing Birth Wendt believes that some of time in modern history that anyone About Jeff & Lindsay Wendt (www.libertysseedlings.com), in an the problem lies with how political decided to write these concepts Jeff has been employed in effort to introduce the concept of movements are using comparisons down,” Wendt added. “Up to that aviation for 20 plus years and has living in a free country whose to the Founding Fathers to further point in time, there hadn’t been a spent the last 15 training pilots in freedom was born through revolu- their agenda. single form of government built on corporate jets. He has become a The Weekly Challenger tion to a new generation. “Our kids need to learn about the foundation of both the freedom student of history over the last few “When you don’t have a frame our history free from partisan AND equality of the citizen.” years and is the research side of is distributed of reference for fascism, it’s kind messages,” he said. “Whether or In the Wendt’s book, they use a Liberty’s Seedling’s, LLC. He is in the following cities: of difficult to understand the gift of not you agree with movements like time travel story to bring kids back the proud father of five children, freedom,” said Wendt, a lifelong the Tea Party, which takes its name to the days of the Founding ages ranging from infant to 15 St. Petersburg • Clearwater • Largo • aviator whose perspective on from the night our forefathers Fathers, which they believe helps years old. Lindsay is a full time Tarpon Springs • Dunedin freedom goes beyond the concep- threw tea into the river as a tax hold their interest longer so that mom and artist whose many tual. “It’s like technology. My gen- protest against King George, I they can learn some of the key creative talents are utilized by eration has always struggled with think we can all agree we’d prefer points of the creation of our nation. Liberty’s Seedling’s, LLC to illus- getting used to the computer age, our kids to learn about our history “We shouldn’t water down or trate, design, and edit. She is the The Weekly Challenger cell phones that are more like Star without the underpinnings of the gloss over certain key events in the proud, and busy, mother of two and Trek communicators and Web sites political motivations of today.” American Revolution, but that step-mother of three. The kids have Published weekly on Thursdays by that show us satellite pictures of When taken as a document, for doesn’t mean we can’t be creative proven a valuable sounding board The Weekly Challenger our homes. But to kids, these things instance, Wendt believes that there in framing how we tell the story,” for research for this clever couple. 2500 Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. St. S. St. Petersburg, FL 33705 (727) 896-2922 The Dust Bin Of History? LOCAL SUBSCRIPTION RATES $50 for 1 year We used to celebrate something narrower or trendier, Benjamin Franklin, after the health of their institutions. Washington’s birthday and something that meets at a later Constitution was signed, famously Trustees — especially of public SINGLE COPY Lincoln’s birthday: each in hour or is more obviously proclaimed to a fellow citizen that schools, appointed by governors 50 cents February, and each worth cele- “relevant” to their 19 year-old per- America is a republic “if you can — have an obligation to determine brating. But now we have a spectives. We send students to keep it.” Central to “keeping” our whether theirs is a school with an ATTENTION POSTMASTER: Presidents’ Day—a deliberately college because we think they Republic is understanding its gov- American history requirement Send all address changes to vague holiday—that apparently don’t know everything, and can ernment and its history. and, if not, to require American The Weekly Challenger fails to distinguish between learn from those who know more. Colleges should start by history or government. They 2500 Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. St. S. Presidents Lincoln and Fillmore. Why do we expect them to know requiring students to take a survey might develop, with the faculty, an St. Petersburg, FL 33705 So who’s teaching about how to create their own curricu- class in American history or exemplary program of their own. NO PAPER? Presidents? You’d think that lum? American government. It’s not If you are an alumnus of such a If you have not received your paper higher education in our Every incentive on campus enough to know that we have had college or university, write letters during delivery, phone (727) 896-2922 democracy would lead the way in encourages students to deny the presidents. Students — college to your board and to your alumni the sophisticated study of thought-provoking and nationally- students, especially — should association. Tell them you fear for DEADLINES American ideas and institutions. important classes for the easier, know who they were, how they the value of your degree—and for All news items, advertising copy and related art Quite the contrary: American more comfortable, and, if you’ll differed from one another and the future of your country. submitted for publication on Thursday must be schools have relegated American excuse the phrase, sexier classes. what characteristics they shared, President Jefferson wrote, at the office of The Weekly Challenger history to—shall we say it?—the We’ve taken the cafeteria how the Presidency has changed “[i]f a nation expects to be no later than 4 p.m. Monday dust bin of history. approach to food—offering over two centuries, and proposals ignorant and free, in a state of civ- Presidents’ Day - veggies, pizza, and ice cream, for changing it further. Such ilization, it expects what never COLUMNIST’S DISCLAIMER Washington’s birthday, if I may— without direction—and have that, knowledge is part of their was and never will be.” Surely we The views expressed by The Challenger is the perfect time to focus on the too often, students go for dessert. birthright as Americans and surely can’t ignore that presidential columnists/advice columnists do not role of colleges in teaching We want them to go for civics. essential to their obligations to caution in regard to the knowledge necessarily reflect the views of American history. Nor is this question merely govern America in the future. of history. On this Presidents’ The Weekly Challenger. By publishing According to What Will They academic (pun intended). The lack Colleges might look to the Day, our colleges and universities such columns, The Challenger is not Learn?, a national survey of over of a rigorous curriculum impacts University of Texas at Austin. All can do something great for the 44 advocating the following of any advice presidents and for the next 44: 700 college general education our students’ knowledge. A survey Longhorns take an introductory or suggestion expressed. requirements, fewer than 20 by the American Council of and a higher-level course in they can teach them. percent of schools require a class Trustees and Alumni showed that American government and two Michael Leo Pomeranz is the SUBMISSIONS POLICY in U.S. history or government. Of only a third of graduating seniors further classes in American Senior Researcher at the American Submissions to The Weekly Challenger may the schools surveyed in Florida, knew who commanded American history. Council of Trustees and Alumni. be edited for reasons of space, clarity or for only 11 percent do. troops at Yorktown. (Washington Ultimately responsible for He can be reached at considerations of liability. All submissions become If not required to study did. The one whose birthday is college curricula are trustees, who [email protected] or (202) the sole property of The Weekly Challenger. American history, college students February 22nd.) have the fiduciary responsibility 467-0376. The Weekly Challenger reserves the right to run are likely to study something else: So where does that leave us? for the financial and academic all or part of any submission at a later time. Some submissions may take precedence due to timeliness or newsworthiness. RATE REDUCTION SPECIAL! Volume 43 • Number 26 The Weekly Challenger Published Thursday, February 24, 2011 12 pages • 1 section $ $ $ $ *Bulk Mail Subscription Cost: 25 for 6 month or 50 yearly • First Class Mail Subscription Cost: 40 for 6 month or 80 yearly The Weekly Challenger © Name:______All rights reserved. No portions of this periodical Address: ______City/State/Zip: ______may be reproduced without expressed consent.

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Child care centers like Mrs. living between blacks and whites the National Urban League blacks attempted to buy tickets In 1968, Frank W. MCLIN Willie Lee McAdams’ Happy in the city. Planners noted that reviewed the situation two years to swim at Spa Pool on the Peterman Sr. became the first continued from front page Workers, McCray Foundational the majority of blacks lived in later, they noted that these Municipal Pier. They were black to win a primary election During the Great Depression School, and Pleasant Hours sub-standard conditions, many deplorable conditions remained. denied entrance and six blacks for state legislature in Pinellas the city’s blacks were hit espe- Nursery ensured that children County. Peterman did not win cially hard. The majority of would be cared for while their the general election — that year black residents were employed parents worked. Two black saw a Republican landslide — in construction or in service dentists — Dr. Gilbert Leggett but his candidacy set a related industries, and these were and Dr. Dallas Carter — precedent. C. Bette Wimbish among the first jobs to go when provided low-cost dental service ran unsuccessfully for the School hard times fell upon the city in to local blacks. Board in 1960, but did secure a the late 1920s. During the 1940s and war seat on the city council in 1969. During the 1930s, several years St. Petersburg was host to Wimbish ended her term as vice- incidents attest to public policies some 20,000 military troops who mayor. It was also in the 1960s aimed at keeping blacks “in their occupied the city’s hotels and that Alvin Downing became place.” The most overtly racist performed daily military drills the first black to serve on public document was the 1931 along downtown streets. With St. the St. Petersburg Housing City Charter which also gave St. Petersburg’s dependence on C ommission. C leveland Petersburg its Council-Manager tourism, the city’s economy Johnson, Sr. became the first form of government which offi- would have suffered greatly African-American realtor in the cially sanctioned total business during the early 1940s had it not Dr. Fred W. Alsup James Sanderlin Enoch Davis city and in 1960 opened and residential segregation. been for the influx of federal Johnson Realty. City ordinances and demo- Also during the 1940s, filed suit against the city for The 1970s and 1980s. By graphic reporting sanctioned by blacks and whites continued to abridgment of their constitution- 1988 blacks were employed in the 1931 City Charter were live in segregated neighborhoods al rights. The case — Alsup v the decision-making positions at designed specifically to keep the and to follow the mandates of City of St. Petersburg made it as most levels of state and local large black community invisible Jim Crow. While white residents far as the Supreme Court, and in government. One of the first to tourists and white residents. danced to the sounds of the big April 1957 the Court denied the political pioneers was James Also during the 1930s, race b ands at the downtown city’s appeal. City attorneys had Sanderlin. Sanderlin, an relations reached an all-time low Coliseum, black residents could argued that the city would lose attorney who represented as a result of racist public hear the likes of Count Basie, white patronage and thus money striking sanitation workers in policies, police brutality, and Duke Ellington, and Buddy if blacks were allowed to swim 1968, was appointed as a county alarming economic conditions. Johnson at their own Manhattan with whites. judge in 1972. In 1985, But out of the morass came black Casino on 22nd Street South The June 1958, City Manager Sanderlin was appointed to the leaders like the Reverend John Casino, reportedly built by the Ross Windom ordered the 2nd District Court of Appeal — Wesley Carter and Noah Jordan family, also provided closing of Spa Pool an hour after the first black to hold that Griffin. facilities for Gibbs High School eight blacks entered the pool. position. Frank White defeated In 1939, Reverend Carter, proms and dances before that The city was attempting to evade two white opponents to become pastor of the Bethel Metropolitan school had its own auditorium. the Supreme Court order which a county judge in 1976. David Church, appeared before City Fannye Ayer Ponder, a mandated integrated swimming Welch, a local businessman who Council to appeal for better social studies teacher at Gibbs facilities. Political and public had achieved notoriety as the housing and equal rights for High School, worked for the pressure persuaded city officials black co-chairperson of the black citizens. Although unable advancement of women on the to vote to reopen the pool in Community Alliance during the to secure a “new deal” for his local, state and national levels January 1959. 1968 garbage strike, was first people, Carter’s public petition working alongside such nation- Johnnie Ruth Clarke was elected to City Council in 1981. forced those in the white power ally prominent activists as Mary the first St. Petersburg African- In 1987, former Gibbs High structure to acknowledge dissat- McLeod Bethune and Eleanor American to attain a doctoral principal Cecil B. Keene was isfaction within the black Roosevelt. Locally, Mrs. Ponder degree. She put her Ph.D. in appointed to the Board of community. founded the Non-Pariel Club, the Education from the University of Regents of the State University Noah Griffin challenged the City Federation of Colored Florida to good use becoming System. status quo in the 1930s. Griffin, Fannye A. Ponder Women’s Club and the St. Associate Dean of Academic Following a successful the principal of Gibbs High Petersburg Metropolitan Council Affairs at St. Petersburg Junior campaign for single-member School in 1937, filed suit against troops and monies. of Negro Women. She spear- College. voting districts by the late the school system that same year In 1941, Florida’s poll tax headed construction of a house Frederick Minnis headed attorney Morris Milton, Doug demanding equal pay for black was abolished and the landmark for the Federated Women’s Club the law firm that represented Jamerson was elected to teachers. Griffin lost the suit and Smith v Allwright case of 1944 on Melrose Avenue South and the Citizens Cooperative t he Florida House of was subsequently dismissed aided in striking down white for youth activities for the Committee, the NAACP and the Representatives in 1982. In from his position at Gibbs and primaries. Blacks were encour- Metropolitan Council. Other NAACP Youth Council in their 1988, Jamerson was appointed blacklisted throughout Florida. aged by these events and turned community activities included many legal actions in the 1950s Chairman of the Committee on But the courage he displayed in out to vote in great numbers. One the March of Dimes, NAACP and 1960s Housing for the Florida confronting injustice, including a source claims that by 1950, 30 and the Republican Party. The 1960s exploded with Legislature. Unfortunately, no severe beating at the hands of percent of St. Petersburg’s During the 1950s In 1952, the voice of black activism and black has ever been elected to the police breaking up a black picnic eligible black voters voted on a C. Bette Wimbish Reverend Enoch D. Davis, civil rights activities. There were Pinellas County School Board or in Shore Acres, encouraged regular basis. In 1946, a law suit Chester James Jr., J.P. Moses, sit-ins protesting everything to the County Commission others to continue to fight the filed by local blacks (made without even a toilet in their and Dr. Fred Alsup organized from lunch counter segregation In 1987, after much debate, battle he “lost.” Dorothy possible by the Smith v homes. The same report the Citizen’s Cooperative to segregated stores and theaters. 9th Street was renamed Martin Thompson, a teacher at the all- Allwright decision) led to black observed that while many Committee (CCC). In 1960, Ralph Wimbish, then Luther King Street in honor of black Pinellas High School, filed participation in the Pinellas schools for white children had Led by activist J.P. Moses, president of the NAACP, led a the slain black civil rights leader. a wage discrimination suit in County Democratic Primary. far fewer students enrolled than the St. Petersburg Non-Partisan boycott and legal action against And in 1988, Bethel A.M.E. 1943, and in 1945 the School One of the most important capacity allowed, at least three Voter’s League was formed in Webb’s City to force the store to Church became the first historic Board approved an equal pay public documents written during black schools were overflowing. 1954, its members spearheaded serve African-Americans at the structure of significance to the scale for teachers of both races. this decade was the “Proposed Gibbs High School had 781 city-wide voter registration lunch counter. black community to be designat- During the Great Master Plan for the City of St. students enrolled in a physical drives. The group demanded Also in 1961, freedom-riders ed a local historic landmark. Depression, black businesses Petersburg,” published in 1943. plant designed for only 350 increased employment opportu- arrived in St. Petersburg were For additional information and churches offered programs In this report, the city planning students. City planners offered nities for blacks and improved welcomed at Reverend Enoch about St. Petersburg’s to alleviate the suffering of commission made note of severe recommendations to alleviate neighborhood conditions. Davis’s Bethel Community African-American history visit members of their community. discrepancies in the standards of some of the problems, but when In August 1955, seven Baptist Church. www.nelson.usf.edu/mclin.

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THE Caring WINNING for the

BY ALAN MCBRIDE Soul EDGE BY VIKKI T. GASKIN-BUTLER, M.DIV., PH.D. Within a few days, Black History Month others. Through your business, ask what can I We have often heard these words from not. Many of us heal from our grief simply will be over. I hope you have found some time do for you? How can I or my product make Christian scripture, “weeping may endure because we are resilient (Konigsburg, 2011). to participate in at least one of the many activi- your life better? And when you find the answer, for a night, but joy comes in the morning.” When we experience a significant loss, ties and events being held in our city. One of deliver. What do we do when the “night” lasts for a we must choose how to cope with it. Some these, the Black History Celebration Showcase Finding your focus- the “who” and “what” very long time? What do we do when days of us may become angry and deny the loss 2011, brings us to our topic today. that you want to become-will pay huge and nights turn into weeks, months, and for a time. However, most of us usually In 1939, a brown boy from Jacksonville, dividends. I encourage you to take the informa- years? What do we do when joy does not accept the loss and try to determine how we FL laid down his bags in St. Petersburg and tion that showed up on your vision board last seem to come? will live with the loss. A common theme I’ve said “I’m home”. For the next 60 years, Al week and compare it to the Unique Selling All of us face grief at some point in our heard when attending funerals (or home Downing would devote his life to his passion Proposition you developed in January. lives. Many of us deal with grief and loss going services) is that funerals are for the for music and sharing it with others. Now, Hopefully, they are in alignment. If not, maybe before we reach adolescence. We may be living. A significant part of the funeral eleven years after his death in 2000, his legacy you have some reflection to do. forced to deal with the untimely deaths of service is used to celebrate the life of the one lives on. Next month brings the excitement of a friends or relatives due to senseless violence who died. However, a portion is also used to To me, that is what Focus and Goals (next topic we have been working toward all year… or terminal diseases. If we happen to make it encourage those who are living to decide month’s topic) is all about. It is not about the goals. In addition, the first assigned reading to adolescence without losing a friend or how they will live the rest of their lives. For typical “if you have more-you will be more” will appear during the month’s discussions. family member, we may be inundated with many in our community, the events before thought process that is commonly found. Stay tuned, keep striving to be the best, and go television, internet and print media coverage the funeral and the funeral itself encourage Instead it is about being genuine and giving to make your own history! of tragedies that lead to loss of life. resilience. These events encourage us to It is noteworthy that grief is not always welcome the support of others as we grieve. triggered by death. We may grieve many Our resilience often depends on whether types of losses (e.g., the loss of friendships, we utilize the support around us. The dating relationships, marriages, jobs, or our support of family and friends provide most Jack And Jill Black History homes). So it is important to recognize that of us with what we need to deal with losses. when we lose something or someone However, there are times when we do not Month Presentation important, it is okay to grieve. In fact, it is seem to rebound fast enough. When we find quite natural to grieve. that we have not recovered after a significant time period has passed, it may be time to ST. PETERSBURG - The Souls.” His powerful message Dr. Elizabeth Kubler-Ross was a leading seek additional support. Mental health pro- Pinellas County Chapter of reminded the group to watch scholar on death and dying. She indicated fessionals, counselors, support groups, Jack and Jill of America, Inc. their thoughts because they that when dealing with grief, we go through clergy, religious and social organizations, spent the evening of Feb. 18 become words, watch their stages of healing: denial, anger, bargaining, may provide the necessary tools to help us sharing information at the words because they become depression and acceptance (Kubler-Ross, cope with loss. Using the resources available Bayfront Medical Center. The actions, watch their actions 1969). As a result of Kubler-Ross’ research, to us may move us farther along in the children chose an African- because they become habits, we have all been taught that one must go grieving process and help us to experience American pioneer to research watch their habits because they through these stages in order to heal from “the joy that comes in the morning.” throughout the month and become character and watch one’s grief. Recent research indicates that present to a group of about 50- their character because they some go through these stages, yet others do attendees. Children as young become their destiny. Sydnee as 5 years old presented reports Peterman, age 14, shared a using poster boards and oral commanding message using reports. Their reports highlight- the assigned topic “Stitching ed Jackie Robinson, Carter G. the Hems of our Heritage”. Deadline Near For Woodson, Zora Neale Hurston, Based on Sydnee’s command Ruby Bridges, Douglas Wilder, performance, she will represent Earnest Everett Just, President the Pinellas County Chapter Property Tax Savings Barrack Obama, Dr. Geraldine very well at the 2011 Jack and Pinellas County Property Exemption remember: Woods and First Lady Michelle Jill Southeastern Region Teen Sydnee Peterman Appraiser Pam Dubov reminds - Disability Exemptions and The homestead exemption Obama. Some children recited Oratorical Competition in permanent residents of Pinellas Exemptions for Blind Persons automatically renews each year, e xcerpts from African- April. Using poise, grace, and County that they may qualify for - Exemptions for Veterans but not all of the exemptions do. American Kings of the Past passion she executed the one or more property tax exemp- with a Service Connected If you purchased a property written by Theresa Riggs. In message flawlessly. Jack and tions, which may result in Disability (or for his or her that had a homestead exemption conjunction with the Black Jill of America, Incorporated is hundreds of dollars in property surviving spouse) at the time of purchase, that History Month Presentation, 2 an African-American organiza- tax savings. But, they must - Discount for combat exemption will be removed on children embraced the opportu- tion of mothers who nurture apply by the March 1st deadline. wounded Florida Veterans over December 31, and you will need nity to participate in the annual future leaders by strengthening This year property owners may age 65 who entered the service to apply for your own. Jack and Jill of America Inc. children ages 2-19 through apply online from the website at while a Florida resident. An additional property tax Southeastern Region Ann chapter programming, www.pcpao.org. Each exemption has its own exemption is available to Owen Gordon Oratorical community service, legislative Florida offers several types set of qualifications. To find out qualified residents of Gulfport Competition and Speak Up advocacy and philanthropic of property tax benefits for if you qualify, or for additional and Unincorporated Pinellas. Speak Out Youth Competition. giving. We believe every child, qualified residents: information, call the Personal The deadline to file for a Both of the events are age with proper guidance and - Homestead Exemption for Exemptions Division at 727- personal exemption for 2011 is appropriate opportunities opportunity can be a leader. a primary residence 464-3294, or visit the Pinellas Tuesday, March 1, 2011. Tax designed to encourage and For more information on Jack - Low Income Senior County Property Appraiser Exemption Application inspire youth to embrace the art and Jill please visit www.jack- Exemption website at http://pcpao.org. Deadline March 1. of public speaking. Miles and-jill.org or contact the - Widow/Widower Some important facts to Richardson age 10 prepared his current Chapter President oratorical presentation on the Nathalia “Toni” Jeffrey-Fort by assigned topic “Healthy Mind, email [email protected]. Healthy Bodies, and Healthy Miles Richardson WWW.THEWEEKLYCHALLENGER.COM

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SPHA To Open GET THE CLASSIFIED HELP WANTED at The Weekly CALENDAR Challenger - Sales Associates. Section 8 Wait List WORD OUT Call the office at 727-896-2922 for information. S T. PETERSBURG – beginning on Friday, February 25, OF EVENTS FOR AS NEED $$$ MONEY $$$ St. Petersburg Housing Authority 2011. Applications will not be Can you benefit from an addi- (SPHA) will open its wait list for accepted in person. Also, applica- LITTLE AS $8.00 tional $1,000.00 Per Month? Courtesy of eligible residents for the Housing tions postmarked after Saturday, Call (813) 368-1628 Today Choice Voucher (HCV) program, March 5, 2011, will not be PER WEEK! ADT - Call Denise Garrett also known as Section 8. accepted. 941-799-2285. During the one-day opening, Applications must be mailed Classified Listings: the HCV program application will to: St. Petersburg Housing AVON - Improving the lives of women globally. Barbara be posted in English and in Authority, P.O. Box 12849, $8.00 per for L. Guyton, Independent Spanish on the housing St. Petersburg, FL 33733 Representative 727-512-3785 authority’s website at Through this voucher 1 to 20 words www.youravon.com/bguyton http://www.stpeteha.org/, and program, SPHA serves more than Saturday, Feb. 26 - Have Questions About MOVING TODAY? Rent this Unemployment Compensation Benefits? Community printed copies of the application 3,000 families, putting in excess and 50¢ each freshly cleaned and totally Law Program, Inc. & Attorney Bonita M. Riggens present will be available at the following of $22 million in housing assis- ready 3/2/2 in St. Pete. Nice locations: tance payments directly into St. additional word corner lot with privacy fence. a free seminar, from 11:00 a.m. to noon, to educate the - Enoch Davis Center, 1111 Petersburg’s local economy L oaded! Built-in range, public on unemployment compensation benefits and the over 20. dishwasher, disposal, fireplace, 1 8th Avenue South, St. annually. The HCV program is the security system. Grab it! administrative hearing process. Childs Park YMCA, 691 Petersburg, FL 33705 largest affordable housing NEED A Only $1,200 month. Call (727) - 43rd Street South St. Petersburg. Call 727-209-9622 - Mirror Lake Library, 280 5th program in the United States and 453-8733 Street North, St. Petersburg, FL is funded by the U.S. Department for more information. BENEFITS UPON BENEFITS 33701 of Housing and Urban BIGGER First, this sharp 3/2/2 is con- Friday, March 4 - The Pinellas Education Foundation - North Branch Library, 861 Development (HUD). Additional venient to downtown. Then there's a nicely flowing floor- and RSVP present a Senior Expo from 10:00 a.m. to 2:00 70th Avenue North, St. information about the HCV IMPRESSION! Petersburg, FL 33702 program can be found on plan, gorgeous fireplace, bright p.m. at the Gus A. Stavros Institute, 12100 Starkey Road, Classified Display Ad easy care kitchen and large To be eligible for a voucher, S PHA’s website at Largo, FL, 33773. The Expo is free and open to the laundry room All this for $750 applicants must qualify based on www.stpeteha.org/section8.htm . Are Available mo. See to believe! Call (727) public. The Expo will feature exhibitors and seminars to SPHA policies and guidelines and The last time SPHA opened Rates for 1 Column Ads 453-8733 support healthy and active lives. Advance registration is HCV income limits. the wait list was in September 1 Column Width … 2” TARPON SPRINGS – HOUSE available by calling RSVP at 727-327-8690 ext. 22 or 23. SPHA will accept applica- 2006. FOR RENT 2 bedroom / 1 bath, tions via U.S. Mail only, 1C X 1 = $18.00 wood floors, new kitchen. $775 Saturday, March 5 - the Gibbs Jr. Gladiators will be Month - $600 security deposit 1C X 2 = $36.00 Call (727) 453-8733 having registration for the 2011 Pop Warner season for Correction 1C X 3 = $54.00 football and cheerleading on Sat. March 5 and 12 from FREE RENT 1C X 4 = $72.00 10 a.m. until 2 p.m. at 2567 11 Ave. S. (Gibbs house near The February 10-16 edition of The Weekly Challenger listed CALL TODAY!! Nancy Harrell's second retirement as Jan. 28, 2010. The correct date tennis courts). For more information call 727-455-8734. 1C X 5 = $90.00 It’s All About YOU. of her retirement was Jan. 28, 2011. “Come See Our New Change” Your ad placement Pinellas Point & Plaza Arms Apartments. does not fit this layout? Pinellas County’s Social Media Roundup 2150 62nd Terrace South NO PROBLEM! St. Petersburg, FL 33712 Twitter, Facebook, YouTube From this page, visitors can disaster preparedness information, and partnering with local media CALL TODAY and other social media outlets help follow links to the social media there’s a feed for everyone. Users outlets. Call Today for Your Rate! (727) 867-6905 keep people and organizations providers in Pinellas County gov- can access these updates at home This program is part of a con- The prices shown above Waived Application Fee or on their mobile devices. tinuing effort to utilize new and when you mention connected. Those looking to stay ernment and keep tabs on the latest is for each time you publish The Weekly Challenger connected to Pinellas County gov- news, business opportunities, While social network sites are emerging technologies to further your ad. Ads must be ernment can see all of the social 9-1-1 activity and timely updates another tool to spread information increase Pinellas County’s web media offerings on one website: about the election process. From rapidly, Pinellas County remains presence and offer residents addi- paid in full prior to run date. www.pinellascounty.org/social- checking out pets at Animal committed to providing informa- tional opportunities to connect Deadline: Monday at 4:00 p.m. networking.htm Services to getting the latest tion through traditional methods with their county government. BUSINESS DIRECTORY

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DR. MARTIN LUTHER KING JR. SPECIAL $10.00 Basic Rollerset/Wrap Monday by Appt. only Tues-Friday 9-5 Saturday 9-3 6 THE WEEKLY CHALLENGER, THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 24, 2011 COMMUNITY NEWS BLACK HISTORY “Celebrating Our History Is An Everyday Thing” Source: Wikipedia Free Library James Earl Jones enjoyed the camaraderie of his combined with animated segments, fellow cadets in the Pershing Rifles were shown to groups of children to Marvin Gaye: Drill Team and Scabbard and Blade gauge the effectiveness of the then- Honor Society. During the course of groundbreaking Sesame Street The Prince Of Soul his studies, Jones discovered he was format. Segments featuring not cut out to be a doctor. Instead he Jones were eventually aired as part of On the evening of Feb. 11, 2011, I took an Tyson portrays Marvin’s father. Tsadok Porter refocused himself on drama, with the the Sesame Street series itself when it amazing and mesmerizing trip back in time starting and James Pierre portray Anna Gordy and thought of doing something he debuted later in 1969 and Jones is about the 1950’s up to April Fool’s Day - 1984. Berry Gordy, respectively. Jasmine “Jaszy” James Earl Jones, born in enjoyed, before, he assumed, he often cited as the first celebrity guest My trip back in time started at the WBTT McAllister takes on the role of Janice Gaye. Arkabutla, Miss., January 17, 1931, would have to go off to fight in the on that series, although a segment Theater, 1646 10th Way, Sarasota; the new digs During his upward climb to popularity, is an American actor of stage and Korean War. After four years of with Carol Burnett was the first to of the talented and gifted West Coast Black Marvin acquired and was battling a drug screen, well known for his deep college, Jones left without his degree. actually be broadcast. Theater Troupe. It was the 2nd week’s perform- addiction coupled with IRS financial and other basso voice. He was the son of Ruth With the war intensifying in Korea, He is best known as the sinister ance of WBTT’s hit musical “Marvin Gaye – problems. He consumed abnormal amounts of Connolly, a teacher and maid, and Jones supposed he would be shipped voice of Darth Vader in the original The Man and His Music”, written and adapted cocaine and, as a result spent his life in debt, Robert Earl Jones ,1910-2006, an off to the war as soon as he received “Star Wars” trilogy. Darth by the troupe’s Founder and Artistic Director despite earning millions. The audience accom- actor, boxer, butler, and chauffeur his officer’s commission. Vader was portrayed in costume Nate Jacobs. panies Marvin on his downward spiral into hell. who left the family before James Instead, he went home. As he by David Prowse in the original April 1, 1984 is considered by many We watch as he becomes unable to maintain a Earl’s birth. Jones and his father rec- waited for his orders to active duty, trilogy and Hayden Christensen in Motown Record fans to be perhaps the worst relationship, and becomes increasingly more onciled many years later in the 1980s he found a part-time stage crew job Revenge of the Sith, with Jones April Fool’s Day, ever experienced. That was paranoid. An aside is that Marvin told his and 1990s. Jones was raised by his at the Manistee Summer dubbing Vader’s dialogue in postpro- the day we lost one of our greatest vocalists, musicians that he was being stalked by maternal grandparents, farmers Theater, where he had performed duction. At his own request, he was Marvin Gaye (Marvin Pentz Gay, Jr.) murderers, and even began wearing a bullet- Maggie and John Henry before. By the end of summer 1953, originally uncredited for the first two The musical is an original script celebrating proof vest. Connolly, and is of African- Jones received his second lieu- released films: the tumultuous life and music of singer/song- The musical gives us a peek at the tumul- American, Irish, Choctaw and tenant’s commission, his official “When Linda Blair did the girl writer Marvin Gaye. It begins at the start of tuous relationship Marvin had with his father; Cherokee descent. orders, and was off to Fort Benning in “The Exorcist,” they hired Gaye’s career with Motown and follows its a relationship full of violence, competition, He moved to his maternal to attend Basic Infantry Officers Mercedes McCambridge to do the twists and turns until his untimely death with humiliation, rancor and much hate. We grandparents’ farm in Jackson, School. While there, Jones went voice of the devil coming out of her. settings in Washington, DC and Detroit. watched as they argued and fought throughout Michigan at the age of 5, but the through Ranger School, And there was controversy as to Creating their own personal popularity spot- the musical. Marvin Sr. was an out of work adoption was traumatic and he graduated, and received his Ranger whether Mercedes should get lights are Emmanuel Avraham who takes on the fundamentalist preacher who constantly developed a stutter so severe he Tab. Jones eventually earned the credit. I was one who thought no, she demanding role of Frankie Gaye (Marvin’s ranted and raved against the sins of indul- refused to speak aloud. When he rank of First Lieutenant. was just special effects. So when it younger brother) plus narrates the entire pro- gence. Finally, we witness the climax of a moved to Brethren, Michigan in later Jones had his acting career came to Darth Vader, I said, no I’m duction, and Sheldon Roden, who portrays long-festering, pathological relationship years a teacher at the Brethren beginnings at the Ramsdell Theatre just special effects. But for the third Marvin Gaye, an even more arduous undertak- between the troubled, drug-addicted soul schools started to help him with his in Manistee, Michigan. His first film one, I said OK, I’ll let them put my ing of acting and singing the many songs singer and his eccentric father. On April 1, stutter. He remained functionally role was as a young and trim Lt. name on it.” contained in the musical. 1984, Marvin Gaye was shot to death by his mute for 8 years until he reached Lothar Zogg, the B-52 bom- Over the years, James Earl Jones Based upon the many movies and live the- father, Marvin Gay, Sr. high school. He credits his high bardier, in “Dr. Strangelove.” reprised his role as the voice of Vader atrical performances I’ve personally seen, I The show runs until February 27. If you’re school teacher, Donald Crouch, who His first big role came with his several times: He is credited in the believe that both Avraham and Roden have a Marvin Gaye fan or if you enjoy great theater, discovered he had a gift for writing portrayal of boxer Jack Jefferson in movie “Robots” with the voice of what it takes to make it either on the Broadway this is a show you shouldn’t miss. Check out poetry, with helping him out of his the film version of the Broadway Darth Vader from a voice module. Stage or on the Silver Screen. That’s how out- www.wbttroupe.org or call 941-366-1505 for silence. The teacher believed forced play, “The Great White Hope” which Playing the king of Zamunda in the standing their performances were earning a more information. public speaking would help him gain was based on the life of boxer Jack comedy “Coming to America,” he standing ovation. Remember to “Keep Jazz Alive” by confidence and insisted he recite a Johnson. For his role, Jones was echoed four Darth-Vader phrases. He The musical provides history and back- “Supporting Live Jazz!” poem in class each day. nominated Best Actor by the also vocally appeared as Vader in ground that only a few of us know about Jazz fans – do you have any feedback? I After being educated at the Academy of Motion Picture Arts the comedy film “The Marvin’s life. Approximately, 24 familiar tunes would like to hear from YOU! You may visit my Browning School for boys in his and Sciences, he is the Benchwarmers” and the video game (i.e. What’s Going On, Mercy, Mercy, Mercy, I website at: www.rickgeesjazzjamm.com or email high school years, Jones second African-American male Monopoly Star Wars. Other voice Heard It Through The Grapevine, etc.) are sung me at [email protected]. You may also mail attended the University of Michigan performer (following Sidney roles include Mufasa in the 1994 film by Roden. On a few tunes, Roden is joined by your letters to Rick Gee’s Jazz Jamm, c/o The where he majored in pre-med. He Poitier) to receive a nomination. Disney animated blockbuster “The an ensemble consisting of Mikeyy Mendez, and Weekly Challenger, 2500 ML King St., S., St. joined the Reserve Officer Training In 1969, Jones participated in Lion King,” and its sequel “The Lion Nisi Pierre (Mother Gaye). Leonard Noah Petersburg, FL 33705. Corps, and excelled. He felt com- making test films for a proposed King II: Simba’s Pride,” and fortable within the structure of the children’s television series called the Emperor of the Night in military environment, and Sesame Street; these shorts, “Pinocchio.” To view schedule of events visit: www.rickgeesjazzjamm.com

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On top of it all, parents, your husband, wife, professor, boss, judge, jury and nearly Scott does not have the authority to unilaterally reject the money, Move into a 2nd floor unit and receive a $100 Bonus ! everything we do in life is built on varying degrees of compromise. nor does he have the authority to sell the state jets. The senators Politics is all about compromise. It’s an art. The best at it are also told him that in the letter. He sold the King and Queen Air for generally elected to public office to represent us, because they’re half of the market value. There was no thought of how the CFO, good at making the “majority” happy. Attorney General and Agriculture Commissioner are supposed to Barak Obama’s a politician. He is a smart effective politician. travel in a state where the commercial air fares run $500 -$900 no He represents the concerns of millions very effectively. We like matter how early reservations are made. That little stunt actually him. That 30 percent that does not, will never like him no matter cost the state triple the cost of using the state planes. So he flies what. The politics of that group is non-negotiable isn’t it? around on his private jet without having to disclose what he’s doing For the first time we may hear a hue and cry for the return of or who he’s meeting with. the politician to the governor’s office because of Rick Scott’s very I had to save the worst for last. The Black Caucus luncheon at bad form regarding … well, everything. the mansion was the crowning insult. It was awful. First he Scott has no allegiance to anyone because his campaign was a suggests that they had much in common because he “grew up in the $70 million TVblitz. Some people may say that’s good. But projects and his father only had a 6th grade education.” When frankly that’s not the American way because we elect people to asked why he had made no black appointments, he pointed to his answer to us. Scott is having big problems with 160 lawmakers black Lt. Governor Jenifer Carroll. The whole lunch just continued who are in the business of representing 18 million Floridians. to deteriorate with more disrespectful comments about the Rick Scott’s biggest problem is that he has a very small con- President. He also said he eliminated the order to “encourage” his stituency base and few allies. He has few friends among the agencies to use minority businesses because “he does not believe Republicans in charge. And zero among Democrats. He has in quotas.” breached the most sacred of protocols with his legislative turf vio- Well now. We have a governor who has been in office less than lations. Scott’s flaky politics where he rejected the $2.4 billion 60 days and has managed to make himself irrelevant before his High Speed Rail federal appropriation, resulted in the immediate term begins in earnest. Stay tuned, the show is just beginning! alliance of 26 of the Senate’s D’s and R’s who want the state to get Gayle Andrews is a former member of the Capitol Press Corps, the money. That’s a veto proof majority. And a stern message in the adjunct Journalism instructor at Florida A& M University, where form of a letter signed and sent by the 26 coalition members. she was awarded Distinguished and Outstanding Graduate status. Meanwhile those Senators plan to meet the one week deadline She is a corporate & political consultant in Tallahassee. granted by the Obama administration to allow Florida keep the

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Thousands of Pinellas County school dozens of books, papers, photographs, diaries, Place Your Ad Today!! children and attendees will tour the Pinellas artifacts, buildings, landmarks and other County African-American History Museum in valuable historical records and resourcesare EARN MONEY NOW Clearwater and attend the Twelfth Annual lost due toneglect, mishandling, and/or CALL Florida African-American Heritage ignorance of their value. Educatingthe Sell Advertising Space In The Weekly Challenger! Celebration in Largo, where they will learn younger generation about this rich aspect of about the outstanding accomplishments of the Nations’history is critical inaccurately Call (727) 896-2922 local African-American pioneers such as preserving our collective past. (727) 896-2922 Florida Supreme Court Justice Joseph The 12th Annual Florida African Hatchett , early settler John Donaldson, and American Heritage Celebration is one of these prominent educator, Dr. Johnnie Ruth Clarke. efforts that has successfully reinforced Research indicates when children are educating our youth and helping them and connected to the curriculum, their achieve- others retain the importance of our heritage ment goes up. As a result, in 1994 the Florida and more specifically the very rich and state legislature mandated the inclusion of poignant contributions of African-Americans African American history in the curriculum. here in Pinellas County. For the past 12 years, The alarm bells were sounded in 2000, thousands of people from around the state and when for the first time, there were more the bay area have convened on the historic African-American males in prison than in Heritage Village for this impactful event. An college. According to the Justice Policy outstanding genre of music, succulent food, Institute Report, nationwide there were arts and crafts, and numerous historic al reen- 756,000 African-American males in prison actments and artifacts are enjoyed by all who PRAISE 1590 AM WRXB and 604,000 in college. This is a tremendous attend this event coordinated by the county 44 2 26 jump from 1980 when there were 471,000 and the Pinellas County African-American African-American males in college and History Museum. CA$H 3 ALLGOSPEL, ALLTHETIME 143,000 in prison. The Heritage Festival is a staple in Currently, 10.4 percent of the entire Pinellas County and like many across the Lock your dials to 1590 AM for Anointed Music 24/7… African-American male population between country and even in the bay area it has taken a the ages of 25-29 are incarcerated as discouraging hit caused by our economy. For your listening pleasure,you can expect to hear a compared to 2.4 percent of Hispanic males Many of the corporate sponsors and patrons 430 wide selection of good Gospel music from quartets to choirs,contemporary and inspirational. and 1.2 percent of white males. have either reduced or ended their support to In partnership with Pinellas County this valuable event. Your support is needed to 123 LISTEN UP DAILY TO WRXB 1590 ANOINTED MUSIC Government and the Pinellas County School continue this mission. No donation is too System, the Pinellas County African- small and your support is appreciated in any 860 American History Museum was established in way. For more information, or to donate or For Marketing and Promotions 2000 to document, preserve and celebrate the volunteer, visit www.pinellascounty.org/unity.htm, history and culture of local African- or call Randolph Lightfoot, 727-871-9165 or Contact Donza Drummond Americans. The procurement and protection 727-499-8067. DOG DAYS of African-American artifacts andhistorical Please join us in keeping this event around at (727) 865-1591 resources indigenous to the State of Florida is to continue educating our youth and the both a crisis and a challenge. With each day, attendees! Email: [email protected] Request Line (727) 864-1600 4-1 7-2 Office (727) 865-WRXB (1591) W W W T H E W E E K L Y C H A L L E N G E R C O M 3551 42nd Avenue South, Suite B-106 . . 6-2 5-6 St. petersburg, FL 33713 3-8 1-5 8 THE WEEKLY CHALLENGER, THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 24, 2011 CHALLENGER SPORTS Newton Ready To Fully Steinbrenner Participate In NFL Combine Says Yanks

top quarterback. “I’m going to go person or let a person evaluate me makes them an elite quarterback. ... out here and do what I’ve been as a person, not something that has That’s what sets me apart from ‘Busy Building working on this whole time and been stereotyped, I think their per- somebody else, that’s what I train preparing for this moment right ception about me will change, and for on a daily basis to be different, Mansions’ now.” I’m willing to take that risk.” to be in a category by myself.” Newton has been working with When Newton arrived for a In his only season at Auburn, what I’ve been told, they’ve a quarterback coach in San Diego news conference before the Newton completed 185 of 280 come in with a real, new and getting mentoring from Hall of ceremony, he first warmly greeted passes (66 percent) for 2,854 yards drive and determination the Fame quarterback Warren Moon. the high school senior girl who was and 30 touchdowns with only kind they had in ‘09.” There was a workout for the media being presented the O’Brien schol- seven interceptions. He also ran for New York lost in the AL earlier this month that he said arship award. He then shook hands 1,473 yards and 20 touchdowns. championship series last hopes changed some perceptions with Keith Jackson and Bob “I think I’m in control of my season to Texas after fading ``in a positive way.’’ Griese, who were also being recog- destiny right now, I’m lucky to be in the second half of the Projected by many to be nized Monday night. in this type of driver’s seat,” season and winding up with among the top 10 picks in April’s “The guys have gotten bigger Newton said. “I’m just focusing on the AL wild card. Cam Newton NFL draft, Newton knows how since I’ve played. My center with what I have to do, in the classroom, Steinbrenner also said baseball’s revenue sharing BY STEPHEN HAWKINS important the interview process the Dolphins was 6-foot-4, 250 in the interviews, and at the end, Hank Steinbrenner will be at the combine. pounds,” Griese said with a smile my performance on the field.” and luxury tax programs FORT WORTH, Texas (AP) - “It’s just as important, if not looking up at 6-6, 250-pound Auburn fans have long cele- TAMPA(AP) - Yankees need changes, and that Cam Newton plans to fully partici- (more) important than the play on Newton. “You ever play center?” brated wins at Toomer’s Corner, co-chairman Hank Commissioner Bud Selig is pate in the NFL combine that the field,” Newton said. “You can’t The namesake of the O’Brien and one of their biggest celebra- Steinbrenner thinks his open to the idea. begins later this week, saying he overlook that by no means. If you award, the former TCU quarter- tions ever came last month after team’s celebration of its Steinbrenner said he wants ``to be transparent’’ through don’t sell yourself to an organiza- back who won the Heisman Trophy Newton and the Tigers won the 2009 World Series champi- doesn’t know what the final the whole draft process. tion, I think you’re going to be in 1938 when the Frogs won their BCS national championship over onship may have lasted too figure is, but expects the Newton intends to work out for skipped in that process and I don’t only AP national title, was 5-7 and Oregon. The Tigers won all 14 long. Yankees’2010 payments for NFL teams in Indianapolis, and want to be skipped.” weighed about 150 pounds. games Newton started. “I think, maybe, they the two to total about $130 said he is ready to answer any The NCAA has ruled that When asked what NFL quar- Recently, an Alabama fan was celebrated too much last million. questions they may have for the Newton’s father tried to get terback he would be like in the charged with first-degree criminal year,’’ Steinbrenner said “We’ve got to do a little quarterback who won the BCS Mississippi State to pay for him to NFL, Newton said no one in partic- mischief for allegedly using a tree- Monday. “Some of the something about that, and I national championship and play there. There was no evidence ular but a part of many of them. He destroying herbicide to poison the players, too busy building know Bud wants to correct Heisman Trophy in his only season Newton knew what his father did mentioned Tom Brady, Michael oak trees at Toomer’s Corner after mansions and doing other it in some way,” at Auburn, where he played in a or that Auburn was involved, so he Vick, Peyton Manning and Aaron Auburn beat the Crimson Tide in things and not concentrating Steinbrenner said. spread offense instead of taking was allowed to keep playing. But Rodgers. November. on winning. I have no “Obviously, we’re very snaps under center. the case is not closed. “Cam Newton is Cam Newton. “Just hearing that is devastat- problem saying that.” much allies with the Red “I don’t have nothing to hide, ‘That’s nothing I’m worried I don’t want to be symboled as he’s ing for me. I didn’t believe it, and When it was pointed out Sox and the Mets, the and I’m a competitor,” Newton about,” Newton said. “I understand like this type of person or he’s like my heart is going out to Toomer’s that Yankees captain Derek Dodgers, the Cubs, whoever said Monday night before that everybody’s entitled to their that type of person,” he said. “I’m Corner and the Toomer’s trees,” Jeter was building a large in that area.” accepting the Davey O’Brien own opinion, and I just feel like if I trying to take something from Newton said. “My heart goes out to multimillion dollar home in “At some point, if you Award that recognizes the nation’s have an opportunity to speak with a every single person’s game that everybody in Auburn.” Tampa last year, don’t want to worry about Steinbrenner said he wasn’t teams in minor markets, singling out any individual. don’t put teams in minor “I was just saying, markets, or don’t leave Can Lakers Get It Together, maybe they were riding the teams in minor markets if wave of ‘09 a little too they’re truly minor,” Host NBA Finals, Too? much, and it happens Steinbrenner said. sometimes,” Steinbrenner “Socialism, communism, against a Cavaliers team they beat Even if the Lakers get things to happen.” said. “This year in spring so whatever you want to call it, by 55 earlier in the season. figured out, the road to the NBA The Knicks are sixth in the far, from what I’ve seen and is never the answer.” But nobody is counting finals might go through San East, in position to make their first Bryant’s bunch out yet. Antonio. With a 46-10 record and playoff appearance since 2004. ``They are the champions. We health they haven’t enjoyed in They lurk as a dangerous lower Doug Williams understand and know the second recent years, the Spurs seem seed with Anthony joining fellow half of the season, they are going to capable of winning a fifth title with All-Star Amare Stoudemire in a play even better and when it comes Tim Duncan after they struggled potentially explosive frontcourt. Returns To time to win, they are going to be the just to reach the postseason in 2010. “The team that we have now, team to beat,’’ Wade said. “Last year we had 50 wins the we are not too bad,” Stoudemire Coach At Wade’s Heat might have the whole season and now we have 46, said Sunday. “We are making our team to do it, and the Boston Celtics so no one really expected it,” All- playoff push, but you never know would love another shot at their Star Manu Ginobili. “We have how things may end up here in the Grambling biggest rivals after losing in seven always been healthy and nobody next few days.” GRAMBLING, La. morning when he visits games last June. But first, the misses a game, and we got the The MVP race could come (AP) - Former Washington campus. Lakers have to prove they’re the experience and we got a better down to Chicago point guard Redskins star quarterback “I think it is truly an best in the West before they worry bench.” Derrick Rose or James, the two- Doug Williams is returning honor to be able too go back about who’s tops in the East. While they cruise out West, time winner who figured his move Kobe Bryant to Grambling State to coach to Grambling State They are currently third in the Boston leads Miami by percentage to Miami counted himself and the football team for a second University for a third time BY BRIAN MAHONEY conference, 81/2 games behind points in the East, with Chicago two Wade out this season. But he’s been time, the university and to be the second coach to AP BASKETBALL WRITER NBA-leading San Antonio and 21/2 games back. The Celtics are 3-0 so good that he believes he’s back confirmed late Monday. coach his son. The only other back of second-place Dallas. But against the Heat, but haven’t been in the conversation, especially if the Grambling State Athletic guy to do this was Coach LOS ANGELES (AP) - The the Lakers looked shaky late last able to keep centers Shaquille Heat continue to recover from their Director J. Lin Dawson Eddie Robinson” Willliams All-Star game was never supposed season before putting it together, O’Neal and Jermaine O’Neal rocky start and reach the potential announced the return of the said in the same statement to be Kobe Bryant’s highlight at and they’re confident they can do it healthy to surround their four All- that was expected of them. College Hall of Famer in a issued by the school. Staples Center this season. again. Stars. “For the first two-thirds of the statement, saying Williams Dawson said he looked Not when his two-time “It has been like a lot of hot and “We are not where we want to season, we played some good bas- has signed a four-year forward to one of defending champion Los Angeles cold this season, a lot of contrasts be. I mean, I know it sounds crazy, ketball. For the last third of the contract that begins March 1. ``Grambling’s favorite sons’’ Lakers were expected to have a shot and looking for a level of consisten- still at the top of the East and we season, we have to understand that Financial details were not coming home to lead what he at a third in a row. Even after cy,” All-Star forward Pau Gasol have the best record, but I don’t we cannot afford to take a step disclosed. hoped will be its next era of LeBron James and Chris Bosh said. “I feel that we can do that.” think we are near where we want to backwards and we have to keep Williams was the general championship football. joined Dwyane Wade in Miami, the Bryant won his fourth All-Star be,” Paul Pierce said. “We battled a moving forward,” James said. “We manager of UFL’s Virginia “Doug Williams has Heat agreed with Michael Jordan MVP award Sunday, scoring 37 lot of injury. We battled inconsistent have to continue to get better, franchise in 2010. Williams been a champion at every that the Lakers were the favorites points and grabbing 14 rebounds in play over the last couple of weeks. because there are teams out there was the MVP of Super Bowl level of competition. The until somebody beat them in June. the Western Conference’s 148-143 We are just fortunate to be in the that’s better than us right now.” XXII with the Redskins. stage is now set,” Dawson’s These days, June basketball victory over the East. He looked position that we have. We haven’t Maybe the Lakers can still He later succeeded Eddie statement added. doesn’t even look like a sure thing poised for the stretch run, with a been healthy all year long. I’m just prove they are one of them. Robinson as coach at his Williams was drafted out for the Lakers. couple of soaring dunks, one over a waiting to see what’s going to “We are looking forward to it,” alma mater, winning three of Grambling by the Tampa They stumbled into the All-Star chasing James, that showed there’s happen in the next couple of weeks Bryant said. “We are up for the straight Southwestern Bay Buccaneers in the first break with three straight losses, plenty of bounce left in his when we get about 95 percent challenge.” Athletic Conference titles round of the 1978 NFL draft. capped by a defeat in Cleveland sometimes aching legs. healthy, to see what’s really going from 1998-2003. He led the Bucs to the The 55-year-old playoffs for the first time and Williams, a native of repeated the feat twice in Zachary, La., replaces Rod four years. Broadway, who resigned In 1986, Williams joined earlier this month to become the Redskins, leading head coach at North Carolina Washington to victory over A&T. the Denver Broncos in Super Williams will coach his Bowl XXII. quarterback son D.J., who Williams was the first signed with Grambling this black quarterback to play in a year. Super Bowl. This past Dawson said Williams weekend, he was inducted planned to speak to reporters into the Black College during a session Wednesday Football Hall of Fame. THE WEEKLY CHALLENGER, THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 24, 2011 9 STATE & NATIONAL NEWS Groups Backing Senator VP Biden Holds Black History Rene Garcia To Hold A Month Celebration BY SOPHIAA. NELSON fact that if the Republican con- Wilmington, Delaware waiting to Statewide Red Light SPECIAL TO THE NNPA trolled House of Representatives board a train that carried in its cars FROM THE JET MAGAZINE has its way, the next 18 months the newly elected Black President Camera Day Of Protest (WHITE HOUSE POOL) will be a “rough ride” and that of the United States, Barack H. they seek to cut many programs Obama. Biden said that he had a ORLANDO – The Florida using these cameras to tax their actually increase accidents. WASHINGTON-Vice that are critical to Mayors, state, moment standing at that station Civil Rights Association issue citizens and violate their con- Even the insurance industry President Joseph Biden and Dr. and county officials nationwide where he remembered the riots and the following statement in stitutional rights under the admits that the volumes of rear Jill Biden welcomed more 120 who represent struggling commu- said to himself, “We may have a lot response to media reports on disguise of public safety. end collisions increase. If there elected African American officials nities, which are mostly of color. more to do, but we’ve come a long “South Florida officials say red Protecting the public by are any reductions, Stowe and their guests to their official He joked, “My recovery act way.” light cameras too costly.” means of misinformation, mis- stated that it is because the residence at the U.S. Naval doesn’t look so bad now-does it.” The Vice President closed his The Florida Civil Rights representation and flawed economy continues to be on Observatory this week in honor of Everyone laughed and nodded in remarks by saying that “the best Association, the National camera studies is a disgrace to “its backside.” Black History Month. Guests agreement. way to celebrate history, is to Motorists Association, the real law enforcement, David In addition, “We are dined on heavy Hors D’ Oeuvres The Vice President opened his make it”. He offered pointed Libertarian Party of Florida, said. In support of repealing the protesting a fundamental of sirloin, salmon brochettes, substantive remarks for the tribute to the strength of the Black and banthecams.org, are offi- red light camera law, the wrong in our system of traffic winter crudites, pommes evening by talking about the men and women who were cially backing State Senator Florida Civil Rights enforcement,” Stowe said. “It gaufrettes, and assorted cookies as importance of community standing in the room, and who Rene Garcia’s Senate Bill 672 Association, the National is time that these practices are they listened to a U.S. Navy Jazz colleges, particularly to the sustain- work tirelessly for their communi- to repeal Florida Red Light Motorists Association, the stopped. We plan on targeting trio play softly in the background. ability of upwardly mobile, ties. And, he also remembered Camera Law, said J. Willie Libertarian Party of Florida, areas where cities “cling to In prepared remarks, Vice educated Blacks in America. He those who had come before. He David, III, president of the banthecams.org, along with their systems as a money President Biden stayed clear of the pointed out that his longtime friend talked about Frederick Douglass F lorida Civil Rights other groups will hold a making source.” Stowe adds politics of the day, except for from Wilmington, Delaware, and the freed Black slaves who in Association. “The fact is that Statewide Red Light Camera that cities are wittingly or noting at the outset that many of Mayor James Baker (who was in 1862 became union soldiers, and Florida’s Red Light Camera Day of Protest, on Saturday, unwittingly assisting insurance his friends in the Congressional attendance at the reception) stood how out of 35,000 who died Law should have never seen February 26, at 12:00 noon in companies’ bottom lines by Black Caucus could not attend side by side with him on the train during the Civil War, 16 of that the light of day,” David stated. Orlando, Tampa, Miami, continuing to use and install because they were preparing for platform at Wilmington station in number were honored with the Last year, the Florida House Jacksonville, Tallahassee, red light cameras. “Insurance votes on the Continuing 1968 as they watched the city of Congressional Medal of Honor. voted for the bill 77-33 and the Palm Beach, Broward, and companies can change risk Resolution to keep the govern- Wilmington lay in ruins from the He talked about how his first case Senate voted for it 30-7 to pass Okaloosa Counties. assessment profiles of areas ment from shutting down, and that riots in the aftermath of Dr. King’s as public defender was in repre- a new law that would enforce National Motorists based on accident data,” he “they were fighting for some key death. He reflected movingly on senting two Black panthers who red light camera violations Association activist Henry B. said. In a tough economy, things important to the Black how some 40 years later, he stood were accused of causing the riots statewide. It is evident that the Stowe finds recent “whining” Stowe states that this uncon- community.” He alluded to the on that same platform in in 1968. new camera law did not get by Florida cities such as scionable. 100 percent support from the Pembroke Pines, Hallandale Red light cameras are Florida Legislature. Red light Beach and others about their unfounded, unconstitutional The Home Depot cameras are losing popularity systems losing money and and unsafe, he said. “We want as more lawmakers view these others distasteful, shameful this menace to our constitution- devices as cash cows, intrusive and hypocritical. Stowe also al rights and traffic safety To Hire More Than 60,000 and not a public safety tool. contends that their safety removed from our roads and "Lawmakers are learning claims are a ruse, citing studies highways,” Stowe said. Seasonal Associates that local governments are that show red light cameras ATLANTA - The Home hire and train new seasonal asso- know-how and value they need Depot(R), the world’s largest ciates in every market during the as they look to take on outdoor home improvement retailer, month of February and March. projects to improve the appear- nation. The struggle for equal Florida State Representative REACTION announced it will hire more than Additionally, The Home Depot ance of their home.” opportunity, education Darryl Rouson, District 55 60,000 seasonal associates in will be adding net new Spring Black Friday will be continued from front page and economic empowerment “The shooting of three St. time for the company’s second permanent full-time and part- implemented on a market-by- crime. Let’s not rush to do a i s important and must Petersburg police officers is a annual Spring Black Friday time positions to its stores for the market basis based on climate by rally. Let’s pour more energy continue. The first priority, tragedy. I am deeply concerned event. second year in a row. geography. During four different into the momentum already however, is to reclaim the that a 16-year-old had access to Like the traditional Black “As we have stated in the weekends in spring, prices on forming.” moral standards which have a gun, and I hope there is a Friday that occurs the day after past, spring is our Christmas and hundreds of the most sought Gypsy C. Gallardo, Co- sustained our forefathers complete investigation into Thanksgiving to unofficially traffic is at its highest during this after spring products will be sig- Chair, The PACT and through the genocide of how he got the gun. I also hope start the holiday shopping season,” said Craig Menear, nificantly reduced including: a Publisher, the Power Broker slavery, segregation, and insti- the entire community recog- season, The Home Depot’s executive vice president for mer- variety of live goods and lawn magazine. tutional discrimination. We nizes that the vast majority of Spring Black Friday marks the chandising. “Hiring seasonal care; outdoor power; eco- “I truly want to express my must not be afraid to stand for young people in St. Petersburg start of home improvement’s associates and offering door friendly gardening products; and deepest condolences to Officer what is right, and stand against want to be a positive part of our busiest shopping season. In busting deals will ensure our patio and grills. David Crawford’s family. It is ‘thug’ culture, immorality, and community. The unemploy- preparation, the company will customers have all of the service, my hope that this loss of life irresponsible behavior - even ment rate among our youth is will not be in vain. How we as popular culture glamorizes astronomical, and I hope we respond can either heal or (and literally sells to our can find solutions to this further divide. We all know the children) the very behaviors problem.” history of rocky relations and lifestyles which are ulti- St. Petersburg City SUDOKU between law enforcement and mately harmful to black Councilmember Steve the African-American families, neighborhoods, and Kornell, District 5 community. If we respond in the greater community. “These tragic events have the right way on all sides, we Government and institutions changed our lives and hopefully can make progress, not only on must be held accountable, but brought us all closer together. closing the chasm, but on to save our community, the Time now to work together on arresting the higher rates of change must start at home.” those issues affecting the crime being perpetrated by Pinellas County community. We may have residents of our city. While we Commissioner Kenneth T. many neighborhoods, but St. lend our support to law enforce- Welch Petersburg is really only one ment officials, all of us are “My heart goes out to the city. Remember that . . . one accountable for progress on the entire officer’s family and all city and she needs your support on the concrete means to the members of the law and help.” prevent further violence.” enforcement community. I Barbara Heck, Past Rev. Louis M. Murphy, Sr., applaud their daily service to President of the St. Pastor, Mt Zion Progressive our community. These officers Petersburg Council of Missionary Baptist Church are peace officers for our Neighborhood Associations “Our community is at a community. I ask that all “As a retired educator my critical crossroads. The culture members of the St. Petersburg first desire is to see our children of violence, drugs and criminal- community come together and survive and thrive in society. ity is not our heritage, but is a not to divide and create a new My heart is broken for dangerous and growing trend chasm. We should not let this somehow nature overpowered which threatens the future of action of an individual paint nurturing for this youth.” the African-American with a broad brush the Dianne Speights, Publisher community, not just in St. southside or any one group in and General Manager, The Petersburg, but across our the city.” Weekly Challenger.

HONOR Louis Cardinals. Musial with the John F. Kennedy played 22 seasons for the Center that promotes the continued from front page Cardinals from 1941 to 1963. artistic talents of children, Bill Russell, the former youth and adults with disabili- music. Boston Celtics’ Captain who ties. Sylvia Mendez, a civil almost single-handedly John J. Sweeney, the rights activist of Mexican and redefined the game of basket- current President Emeritus of Puerto Rican descent. ball. the AFL-CIO, and served as Stan “The Man” Musial, a In 1974, Jean Kennedy President of the AFL-CIO baseball legend and Hall of Smith founded VSA, a non- from 1995 to 2009. Fame first baseman for the St. profit organization affiliated 10 THE WEEKLY CHALLENGER, THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 24, 2011 CHURCH DIRECTORY 955 20th Street South • St. Petersburg, FL 33712 (727) 894-4311 Email: [email protected] Website: www.mzprogressive.org First Baptist Institutional Church Sunday Worship Services ...... 7:45 a.m. & 10:00 a.m. 3144 Third Avenue South Sunday School...... 9:00 a.m. Wednesday Mid-Day Bible Study...... Noon - 12:30 p.m. St. Petersburg, FL 33712 Wednesday Prayer Service...... 6:00 p.m. Wednesday Bible Study ...... 6:30 p.m. Phone: 727-323-7518 Youth Chapel Services - 921 20th Street South 2nd & 4th Sunday Worship Services ...... 10:00 a.m. Sunday School 9:30 a.m. Wednesday Prayer ...... 6:00 p.m. Morning Worship 10:45 a.m. Bible Study ...... 6:30 p.m. Mission Statement: Come Worship With EV R AYNE HOMPSON Rev. Louis M. Murphy Sr. Impact the world by equipping believers R . D . W G. T , the First Baptist Family PASTOR Senior Pastor to reach the lost with the gospel of Jesus Christ.

If you are brokenhearted in spirit, unable to forgive, dealing with issues ST. JOHN MISSIONARY BAPTIST CHURCH of love, anger, deception, betrayal, lied and cheated, and kicked to the curb. 3200 Fifth Avenue South, St. Petersburg, FL 33712 Tune into this Radio Ministry weekly for breakthru.. (727) 327-1373 Thursday Nights: 9:15 p.m. - 9:30 p.m. (EST) Universal Christian Radio; www.universalchristianradio.com Early Morning Worship ...... 7:30 a.m. Saturdays: 9:00 a.m. - 10:00 a.m. (EST) Sunday School ...... 9:30 a.m. WXYB (1520 AM Local Radio) • www.wpso.com (Click WXYB live radio) Sunday Radio Broadcasts Morning Worship...... 11:00 a.m. Princess Denise Wright Radio Host / WFAM ( Augusta , GA ) 11:15 a.m.; WIJD ( Mobile , AL ) Wednesday Bible Study & Prayer Meeting ...... 7:00 p.m. TV Personality 6:30 p.m. ( Tupelo , MS ) 7:30 p.m.; WLMR ( Chattanooga , TN ) 12:15 p.m. Friday Prayer Meeting ...... 11:00 a.m. Email: [email protected] • 727-289-2475 Rev. Norris L. Martin Sr. - Pastor “Raising A Standard For God’s People In God’s Church” www.mattersoftheheartministry.org

First Mount Zion Missionary Baptist Church 1121 22nd Street South, St. Petersburg, FL 33712 (727) 327-8708 PLACE YOUR Sunday Worship Services . . . .8:00 and 11:00 a.m. Sunday School ...... 9:30 a.m. CHURCH DIRECTORY AD HERE!! Prayer Meeting (Tuesday) ...... 6:00 p.m. Bible Study (Tuesday) ...... 7:00 p.m. Baptist Training Union (Sunday) ...... 4:00 p.m. CALL 727-896-2922

Rev. Wallace Elliott Sr. - Pastor “The Little Church Where Everybody Is Somebody”

Victory Christian Center Church 3012 18th Avenue South GENESIS St. Petersburg, Fla. 33712 (727) 321-0911 WORSHIP www.victorychristiancenterchurch.com Schedule of Services CENTER Sunday Worship* 10:30 a.m. CHURCH Wednesday Bible Study* -7:00 p.m. 1818 29th Avenue North Friday Prayer -7:00 p.m. Claude S. Williams, Pastor Intercessory Prayer - 9:00 a.m. St. Petersburg, Florida (except Wednesdays) 727.898.5571 Victory Christian Center is a Word of Faith Church. For more information about the Pastor Michael T. and Sunday Worship other services and ministries at Victory Christian Center, please call (727) 321-0911 Elect Lady Sheila Culbreth 11:30 a.m. *Nursery and Youth Services Available

MOUNT PILGRIM MISSIONARY BAPTIST CHURCH 10th Street Church Of God 4000 5th Avenue South, St. Petersburg, FL 33711 Phone: (727) 321-7375 207 - 10th Street North United for Christ “Returning God’s People to the Word of God” St. Petersburg, FL 33705 Sunday School...... 9:30 a.m. - 10:30 a.m. Freewill Baptist Church (727) 898-9407 4116 34th Street South Sunday General Worship ...... 11:00 a.m. Pinch A Penny Plaza Communion ...... First Sunday Pastor Minister Tyrone Ford Sunday School...... 9:30 a.m. Sunday New Member Orientation...... 9:30 a.m. and 1st Lady Kadell Ford St. Petersburg, Florida 33711 Morning Worship ...... 11:00 a.m. Wednesday Prayer Meeting...... 7:00 p.m. - 7:30 p.m. 727-258-4993 Wednesday Bible Study...... 7:30 p.m. - 8:30 p.m. Wednesday Evening Prayer ...... 6:30 p.m. Wednesday Youth Bible Study ...... 7:00 p.m. - 8:00 p.m. Wednesday Night Bible Study.....7:30 p.m. Wednesday Night Bible Study ...... 7:00 p.m. Wednesday Tutoring ...... 6:00 p.m. - 7:00 p.m. Sunday School ...... 9:30 a.m. Pastor Clark Sunday Worship Service ...... 11:00 a.m. Hazley, Sr. Mission Statement The church where Having been led, as we believe, by the Spirit of God to receive the Lord Jesus Christ as Rev. Ronald L. Bell what God’s word teaches Living, Teaching and Preaching the True Gospel our Savior; and on the profession of our faith. We the people of God returning to God’s Pastor is practiced! of Jesus Christ, to Save Lost Souls. Come join in with us. Word, proclaiming, God’s Will in provoking His love among one another.

Friendship Missionary Baptist Church 3300 31st Street South PLACE YOUR St. Petersburg, FL 33712 (727) 906-8300 CHURCH DIRECTORY www.fmbctheship.org Dr. John A. Evans, Pastor Sunday...... 7:45 a.m. and 10:45 a.m. Worship “Serving and Saving AD HERE!! Sunday School...... 9:30 a.m. “Helping and Healing” Wednesday...... Noonday Bible Study and CALL 727-896-2922 “Inspiring and Bread of Life; 7 p.m. Prayer and Bible Study Instructing” Thursday...... 7 p.m. Youth Enrichment - Awana “Praying and Praising” Prayer Tower Church of God in Christ 20th Street Elder Clarence Welch, Pastor Church Of Christ Elder Carson Skinner, Assistant Pastor 1137 37th Street South PLACE YOUR 825 20th Street South Saint Petersburg, FL 33711 St. Petersburg, FL 33712 (727) 321-0670 Home: 896-8006 SERVICES CHURCH DIRECTORY Bro. Robert Smith Sunday Sunday School – 10:30 a.m. Sunday Morning Worship...... 7:45 a.m. A. M. Service – 11:30 a.m. Sunday Morning Bible Class...... 9:20 a.m. YPWW (1st & 3rd Sunday) – 5:30 p.m. AD HERE!! Sunday Morning Second Worship...... 10:40 a.m. P.M. Service (1st & 3rd Sunday) – 6:30 p.m. Ladies Bible Class Monday...... 7:00 p.m. P. M. Service (2nd & 4th Sunday) - 5:30 p.m. Monday Evening Bible Class...... 7:00 p.m. Tuesday Morning Prayer – 9:30 to 10:30 a.m. CALL 727-896-2922 Wednesday Morning Bible Class ...... 10:00 a.m. Wednesday Prayer Service – 7:30 p.m. Wednesday Evening Bible Class...... 7:00 p.m. Thursday Bible Study (for all ages) – 7:30 p.m. THE WEEKLY CHALLENGER, THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 24, 2011 11 CHURCH DIRECTORY THE ROCK OF JESUS MISSIONARY BAPTIST CHURCH SSTT. MARK MISSIONARY BBAPTISTAPTIST CHURCH Church School: ...... 9:15 a.m. – 10:00 a.m. 1301 - 37th Street South, St. Petersburg, FL Devotion: ...... 10:00 a.m. – 10:20 a.m. Praise and Worship: ...... 10:20 a.m. – 10:30 a.m. (727) 321-6631 • www.stmarkch.org Morning Worship Service:...... 10:30 a.m. Saints of Prayer each Monday ...... 12:00 Noon Schedule of Services Bible Study each Tuesday: ...... 6:30 p.m. Church School ...... 9:30 a.m. Van service is available by calling: (727) 327-0015 Morning Worship ...... 10:45 a.m. THE ROCK OF JESUS IS LOCATED AT: Baptist Training Union ...... 5:00 p.m. 3940 – 18th AVENUE SOUTH Prayer Meeting and Bible Study St. Petersburg, Florida Thursday 9:30 a.m. & 7:00 p.m. Telephone: 727-327-0015 • Fax: 727-327-0021 Rev. Brian K. Brown Rev. Frank W. Office Hours: Tuesday and Friday Peterman, Jr. 9:00 a.m. – 5:00 p.m. Pastor

By The Word of Faith Church Inc. BETHEL METROPOLITAN BAPTIST CHURCH 558 28th Street South, St. Petersburg, FL 33712 3455 - 26th Avenue South, St. Petersburg, FL 33711 Phone: 727-328-0788 • Fax: 727-328-8460 Telephone (727) 327-0554 • Fax (727) 327-0240 Service Times and Schedules E-mail: [email protected] Web site: www.bmmbc.org EVERY TUESDAY-THURSDAY FROM 10 AM - 2 PM COME AND GET A BAG OF FOOD ONCE A MONTH Sunday Worship Service...... 10:15 a.m. Wednesday Night 7:00 p.m. Empowerment Service Sunday School ...... 9:00 a.m. 3rd and 4th Sunday 9:00 a.m. New Members Class Teen Summit (Wednesday) ...... 7:00 p.m. Sunday Morning 9:00 Sunday School Bible Study (Wednesday)...... 7:00 p.m.

Bishop Willie C. Sands Sunday Morning Service 10:00 Evangelist Patricia Sands Nursery Available and Children Ministry!!! “God’s House In The City” Rev. Rickey L. Houston, Pastor CHURCH NEWS Mt. Zion Progressive St. Mark Missionary Baptist Church Missionary Baptist Church The St. Mark Missionary Study- 4:00 p.m. at St. Mark Children in the community are “Impact the world by don’t want to miss the return informative and Christian life- Baptist Church, its pastor, the Study Book: The Power of welcomed to join us. equipping believers to reach the engagement of this compelling building lessons. For more Reverend Brian K. Brown, its a Praying Woman Young Adult Ministry lost with the gospel of Jesus production of Jesus’life and res- information visit info@mzpro- official staff of deacons and Feb. 27 - Children and every Monday from 6:30 p.m. Christ.” urrection, April 8 and 9 at Gibbs gressive.org trustees, and the entire congre- Yo uth Black History (Bible Study) In celebration of Black High School. For more infor- Our Single Moms’ Ministry gation, extends to the Presentation: Past History/ Sunday School Teachers’ History Month we invite the mation call 894-4311 or meets the first and third community at large, its wish Present History/Prospective Meeting is held every Tuesday community to join us for “Old [email protected]. Thursdays, 6-7:30 p.m. in the that there would be an over- History at 7:00 p.m. Landmark Sunday” Feb. 27 Although our Children and C.A.R.E. Building, 1906 9th flowing of God’s blessings Also at St. Mark … Senior Hour of Power during our 10 a.m. worship Youth Ministry (CYM) has Avenue South. Child care upon their lives. St. Mark is Sunday School is held for Bible Study is held every service. We encourage members begun “The Armor of God provided and you need not be a grounded in a Christ-centered both children and adults of all Thursday at 9:30 a.m. and visitors alike to wear their Series,” it’s not too late for member to attend. doctrine that has as its central ages. Sunday School starts P rayer Meeting and vintage 1960’s and 1970’s youth to attend! The series is Mt. Zion Progressive theme, a belief that we are a each Sunday at 9:30 a.m. All Bible Study every Thursday apparel as we have a ‘good ole held 6:30 p.m. each Wednesday Missionary Baptist Church, 955 haven of hope, help, and are invited to come out and at 7:00 p.m. church service.’ through June 15. Attendees 20th St. S. Phone: 727-894- healing for a world hungering join us. St Mark Computer Lab and “All Hail King Jesus 2011, learn God’s truth of protecting 4311. www.mzprogressive.org. for and thirsting after the Baptist Training Union is Computer Class Hours: The Triumphal Entry.” You them through interactive, enlightened word of God. At each Sunday at 5:00 p.m. Computer Lab Hours: St. Mark, we are Christians Members and the general Tuesday and Thursday only willing to work and partner in public are invited to come out (4-6 p.m.) Saturday Mornings Bethel Metropolitan Baptist Church unity, praising God for His and study the Bible with us 10 a.m.-12 noon awesome gift, His son Jesus and learn “What Baptist Computer Class Hours: Bethel Metropolitan Baptist centered, team-centered and community to make use of our Christ. Believe”. Tuesday and Thursday Church, “God’s House in the Bible-based ministry; with pri- Prayer Line. (727-321-9645) Calendar of Events for Children and Youth only 6-7:00 p.m. Saturday City,” under the leadership of orities focused on love, forgive- Our Black History Month February Ministry Meetings are held Mornings 10 a.m.-12 noon Dr. Rickey L. Houston extends ness, unity, peace and growth. celebration will culminate with Feb. 26 - Women’s Bible every Monday at 6:00 p.m. an invitation to the community We celebrate in worship, we our Annual Soul Food Fest on to join us as we declare the care for one another, we Sunday, Feb. 27 immediately living Word of God. Join us at cultivate the fullest spiritual life following worship service. 9:00 a.m. for Sunday School possible both individually and “Driven by God’s Friendship Missionary Baptist Church and at 10:15 a.m. worship corporately; and we communi- Faithfulness: His will done on service. Bible Study and Teen cate God’s truth at every oppor- Earth as in Heaven in 2011” “The Ship - One Lord, One Please join us during the FMBC certified Sunday Summit/Children Rising are tunity. Living out these princi- Matthew 6:10 Faith, One Baptism, One week for Wednesday Noonday School Teachers class every held Wed. evenings at 7:00. ples results in a kaleidoscope of Email:[email protected]. Church.” Bible Study or Wednesday Saturday at 9:00 a.m. We are committed to a ministries for all ages and com. Website: www.bmmbc.org Friendship is a family of nights at 7:00 as we study and We are located at 3300 31st Christ-centered, people- interests. We also encourage the believers in Christ . . . All of discuss the Book of Esther, Street South, Saint Petersburg, God’s children are welcome to facilitated by Dr. John A. Florida 33712. Our telephone come grow with us. The Ship’s Evans. The Youth Enrichment number is 727-906-8300. St. John Missionary Baptist Church Morning Worships starts at – Awana curriculum is held on Don’t forget to visit our 7:45 a.m. and 10:45 a.m. Thursday nights at 7:00 website:www.fmbctheship.org Saint John Missionary St. John Missionary Baptist way. Gifts include: designer Sunday school begins at 9:30 Evans, director of Youth Hope to fellowship with Baptist Church, 3100 5th Ave. Church will be hosting a Black purses, travel bags, designer a.m. Ministry. you soon! S., St. Petersburg. Rev. Norris L History Service. Minister Jeff cologne and much more. Come Martin, Sr Pastor. Tomlinson from Host Church out and join us as we celebrate Sunday, Feb. 27, at 11:00 will be the speaker. There will Black History and Our Lord and a.m. The Youth Department of also be a Black History Give-a- Savior Jesus Christ. ADVERTISE First Mt. Zion Missionary Baptist Church YOUR

First Mt. Zion M. B. Church temporary gospel music. Must engagements. For more infor- CHURCH is seeking a pianist for its be available for two services on mation, please call (727) 560- church choir. Must be able to the 1st and 2nd Sunday of every 3358. EVENT play both traditional and con- month plus rehearsals and

CALLFORA

Church News due by 4:00 p.m. QUOTE: on Monday of each week 727-896-2922 12 THE WEEKLY CHALLENGER, THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 24, 2011