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Rep. John Conyers Retiring Amid Volume 31 No. 5 Jacksonville, Florida December 7 - 13, 2017 Sexual Misconduct Allegations Rep. John Conyers (D-Mich.) has announced that he is retiring from Winners and Losers: Who Benefits from the GOP Tax Bill Congress following pressure from lawmakers to step down over multi- Many people are just getting their lowing out America’s middle class countries. Another benefit to corpo- other inheritance. ple allegations of sexual misconduct. first looks at the nearly 500-page & tearing down our democracy,” rations is that the bill would allow The bill also lowers taxes for Conyers, 88, the longest-serving current member of the House, has sweeping tax bill that Senate Sen. Elizabeth Warren (D-Mass.) them to bring back revenue stored most middle-income American, at denied the allegations, which include touching female staffers inappro- Republicans pushed through on a tweeted after the passed in the overseas to the United States at a least until 2026. It keeps seven tax priately and propositioning them for sex. He repeated that denial on a party line vote of 51-49 over the Senate. low tax rate of 14.5 percent. The brackets while cutting the rates at recent radio show, calling the allegations “not accurate.” weekend. The proposed legislations The Senate Republican tax bill is bill is also a huge win for the every level and raises income “I can’t explain where they came from,” Conyers said. has far reaching implications for a major victory for big corpora- wealthiest Americans. Millionaires thresholds to qualify for some of He said his legacy “can’t be compromised or diminished in any way” large corporation and families. tions, according to The Washington would see their top tax rate reduced the higher bracket. The poorest by the allegations, arguing it will continue through his children. “This Congress doesn’t work for Post. Corporate giants would bene- from 39.6 percent to 38.5 percent. Americans are not losers in this “This too shall pass,” he said. working families. It works for cor- fit from a tax rate that decreases Wealthy families would also benefit deal. But at the same time, they’re Conyers endorsed his son, John Conyers III, to succeed him in porate lobbyists & campaign from 35 percent to 20 percent start- from changes that would exempt not winners either because the bill Congress. donors in backroom deals & 1:30 ing in 2019—placing the U.S. cor- many of them from paying the has hardly any effect on them, Conyers previously announced that he would temporarily step down as AM votes. This corruption is hol- porate tax rate below many other estate tax when giving property and according to Forbes. the top Democrat on the House Judiciary Committee, pending the results of a House ethics investigation into the allegations. Local Author Debuts First Book on Women’s Role in Black Lives Matter Nike Just Came Out With Jacksonville based author Nikesha Set in Jacksonville between the Its First Sports Hijab Elise Williams held a book signing two trials of Michael Dunn, the for her debut novel, Four Women, man convicted of murder in Jordan Nike just launched a lightweight and breathable last weekend at WJCT studios. Davis's killing, Four Women focus- hijab for Muslim athletes to wear while competing. Williams was joined by Ron Davis, es on the plight of African- The Nike Pro Hijab recently went on sale global- a local activist and the father of American women in the Black ly with the tag line “sports is for everyone.” The ad slain Jacksonville teen Jordan Lives Matter movement, how campaign features American Olympic fencer Davis, for the novel release. At the Black women are depicted in Ibtihaj Muhammad, Emirati figure skater Zahra event the two discussed the themes media, and the strength of Black Lari and German boxer Zeina Nassar. Nike of the novel including domestic women that is tested in daily rela- revealed the hijab last winter when it was rolled out in stores in the violence, addiction, and Florida's tionships. Williams is an Emmy Middle East. Now, athletes can purchase the Nike Pro Hijab around the controversial Stand Your Ground Award winning news producer and world. Law. William's novel asks the works at local CBS/Fox affiliate The garment is now available in select stores. It is sold online by Nike question: What happens to four Action News Jax. Four Women is in black and obsidian, but will be available in more colors come January. strangers when the present meets her first novel and is available for While Nike is not the first company to create hijabs for athletes, it is the the past and the whole world is purchase at both Chamblin's first large-scale global corporation to prioritize the needs of Muslim ath- watching? Uptown locations in Jacksonville. letes. Shown is Ron Davis with author Nikesha Williams Wisconsin’s Governor Renews Effort To Drug Test Welfare Recipients Chi Eta Phi Signs Wisconsin’s Republican Gov. Scott Walker has submitted a plan to the state legislature that would require drug testing for food stamp recipi- on Three for Service ents—supposedly to encourage able-bodied adults to work—even though there are question about whether the program is legal under fed- eral law, The Milwaukee Journal Sentinel reported. The governor and lawmakers added the rule to their 2015 budget and sued the federal government for the right to enact the program, The Wisconsin State Journal reported. Wisconsin disputed the Obama administration’s argument that federal law bans the program. A judge, however, dismissed the case because Wisconsin had not implemented the plan. Under the program, those who fail their drug test must under- go treatment or lose their benefits. It’s estimated that the state would screen roughly 68,400 applicants each year and require about 3 percent of them, approximately 2,100 people, to take a drug test. Officials esti- mate that about 224 of them will fail. The price tag for the program is $867,000 annually. Opponents of the program argue that it has failed in other states where governments spent lots of money but found relatively few drug users. They also point out that the program would face a mountain of litigation Shown above is volunteer Mia Jones spinning the “Healthy even if the Trump administration doesn’t block implementation. If law- Wheel of Fortune” with students eager to exercise for prizes makers fail to object to the renewed program, it will go into effect in the spring, with the first tests by the fall. I’m a Star Join Volunteers to Engage Community to Let’s Move Johnson Publishing Company This past weekend Chi Eta Phi Nursing Sorority Incorporated Sigma The community turned out by the hundreds for the I'm A Star Chapter welcomed new members Christinanna Wilkerson, Cherlynn Foundation's 7th Annual Let’s Move Jacksonville event held last weekend Iconic Building Sells for $10M Fields and Shaunice Johnson into the organization. Chi Eta Phi, at the Henry Klutho Park in Springfield. The Communities in Schools The vacant Johnson Publishing Company head- Sorority, Incorporated is an international organization of registered nurs- organization brought the most attendees, claiming the coveted $1000 prize. quarters, once the home of Ebony and Jet maga- es whose motto is “Service for Humanity.” More than 8,000 Registered Participants had the opportunity to learn about community programs, par- zines on Chicago’s Michigan Avenue, has been Nurses and student nurses hold membership in Chi Eta Phi Sorority, Inc. ticipate in exercise relays and receive fresh local fruits and vegetables in a sold for $10 million to developer 3L Real Estate. The Sorority was organized on October 16, 1932 with the assistance of free farmer's market. The I’m A Star Foundation plans the event annually The announcement coincided with the news that 11 other courageous registered nurses. the 46-year-old building was designated a to engage their peer group and combat childhood obesity. Chicago landmark after a 10-month process. The developer plans to spend $20 million to convert Judge Deals Former Congresswoman a Harsh Sentence the 11-story building into 150 apartments to be rented for $1,200 to $2,700 a month. Following completion, the apartment building will The 17 month legal ordeal of for- of her term, she will also serve three have a fitness center and a laundry room on every floor. It will retain the mer local U.S. Representative years of supervised release and underground parking garage that Johnson Publishing Company founder Corrine Brown ended this week in a must pay $250 a month in restitu- John H. Johnson built. The new owner also pledged to keep the historic Jacksonville Federal Courthouse. tion once she's released from Ebony/Jet sign at the top of the building, located at 820 S. Michigan The beloved politician was sen- prison. She was ordered to pay a Ave. tenced to five years in prison for her total of $515,166.86 in restitution to For decades it was the only Black-owned building on Michigan role in helping raise more than her victims, including $62,650.99 Avenue. Johnson Publishing’s heir Linda Johnson Rice sold the build- $800,000 for a bogus charity that to the Internal Revenue Service. ing to Columbia College in 2010 for $8 million who never used the was used as a slush fund, federal Brown, a hometown Democrat building for an intended library. court officials said. from Jacksonville, served 24 years The building was completed in 1971 after John H. Johnson established Brown, 71, was convicted in May in Congress. She lost her re-election Ebony and Jet as premiere magazines highlighting on 18 counts of participating in a bid last year after being indicted to Black life and culture in America. Johnson borrowed conspiracy involving a fraudulent Rep. Al Lawson of Tallahassee, FL. $500 against his mothers’ furniture to start his media education charity, concealing mate- U.S. District Judge Timothy empire. For decades the magazines sat on millions of rial facts required on financial dis- Corrigan said he considered coffee tables in Black households across the country. closure forms and filing false tax Brown's years of public service in returns. Following the completion Brown is the latest casualty of the FBIs war on politicians deciding - Continued on page 2 Page 2 - Ms. Perry’s Free Press December 7 - 13, 2017 Corrine Brown Sentenced ------Sights & Scenes ------Continued from page 1 woman's fate." Alpha Phi Alpha Founders Day Weekend her punishment. But he determined That juror told Corrigan that the that "probation for a member of Con- Holy Spirit had informed him that gress convicted of 18 counts involv- Brown was not guilty, Jacksonville's ing mail, wire, and tax fraud would WJXT-TV reported. not be sufficient," according to a Prosecutors said Brown partici- transcript of his comments. pated from 2012 to 2016 in a conspir- Brown was at the center of a acy and fraud scheme involving the scheme, described as "shameless" by One Door for Education fund, along Judge Corrigan, that collected hun- with her chief of staff, Elias "Ronnie" dreds of thousands of dollars for One Simmons, and the charity's president, Door for Education, an unregistered Carla Wiley. charity -- funds that were used in- "Trial evidence also showed that stead to pad a lavish lifestyle that far more than $300,000 in One Door exceeded the lawmaker's means. funds had been used to pay for events "She cast aside the very laws that hosted by Brown or held in her she helped to enact," Corrigan wrote. honor," federal prosecutors said in a "The rules, she decided, did not apply statement. to her.” In his 25-page sentencing order, Brown maintains her innocence Judge Corrigan said the One Door for and will appeal, her lawyer, James Education charity was “operated as a Smith, told reporters outside the fed- criminal enterprise” by Brown, her eral courthouse following the sen- chief of staff, Ronnie Simmons, and Alpha men: Kelvin Lawson, Pres. James Kelly and Jerome Ballard Patricia Sams, Sheila Pressly, Waletta Stanford and Gina Kyle tencing. The former congresswoman the charity's founder, Carla Wiley. declined to comment. “These defendants systematically "I disagree with the idea that a looted One Door funds which other- woman who is 71 should have to go wise would have been available to to prison for a nonviolent economic help deserving children,” Corrigan offense," Smith told reporters. said in the sentencing order. “Just Smith said he also would argue on think of the good that could have appeal that most of the evidence been done with that money if it had against Brown was circumstantial been used for its proper purpose.” and that the judge improperly re- Simmons was sentenced to four moved a juror in the case. years in prison and Wiley to 21 "She hasn't given up hope. She in- months, federal court officials said. tends to continue to fight," Smith None of the three were taken into said. "This court does not have the custody after being sentenced and are last word considering the congress- scheduled to report in early January.

Event chair Marque Wilkes, Mychelle Grover, Latasha Frison, Tia Leathers and Melissa Adams Alpha men: Bennie Moore, Sr., Sollie Mitchell and Florida District Director Marlon Ivey

Joining in the wreath laying ceremony were Marques Wilkes, Calvin Burney, Sr, Sr., Sollie Mitchell, Bennie Moore, Sr., Joseph Smith, and The ladies of Alpha Kappa Alpha Jerome Ballard

The Upsilon Lambda Chapter of Laying and Dedication for A. St. Jacksonville community by impl- the need for a strong bond of broth- Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Incorpo- George Richardson, an Upsilon menting national programs such as erhood among African descendants rated celebrated their 111th Founders Lambda chapter Charter Member “Go to high school, Go to college,” a in this country. Day with a gala weekend of activi- and a Brotherhood March to the mentoring program at West Jack- Notable Alpha men include ties. Alpha Plot on the campus of Edward sonville Church of God In Christ and W.E.B. DuBois, Adam Clayton Pow- The festive weekend included a Waters College. Project Alpha. ell, Jr., Edward Brooke, Martin sold out Founders’ Day Gala at the Established in 1925, the Upsilon Alpha Phi Alpha, Fraternity is the Luther King, Jr., Thurgood Marshall, Main Library, a Brotherhood Break- Lambda Chapter is the oldest in the first intercollegiate Greek-letter fra- Andrew Young, William Gray, Paul fast, a Brotherhood Smoke and So- state of Florida. ternity established for African Amer- Robeson, and many others. In re- cial and worship service at Bethel There are 706 chapters throughout ican Men. It was founded at Cornell maining true to its form as the “first Baptist Institutional Church. The the world with over 70,000 members. University in Ithaca, New York by of firsts,” Alpha Phi Alpha has been weekend culminated with a Wreath The local chapter is active in the seven college men who recognized interracial since 1945.

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Scott (WP) has significance.” The attor- local police departments before When President Trump nomi- ney general did acknowledge they issue public reports about their nated Jeff Sessions to be the he recommended only one shortcomings, a move that those attorney general, Democratic black candidate for a U.S. supportive of police reform criti- lawmakers argued that the then- attorney position. cized. senator from Alabama becom- Trump supporters often While Sessions said he values ing the nation’s top prosecutor respond to concerns about a diversity, the lack of black senior would be a step backward in lack of diversity in key posi- officials raises concerns with a advancing the relationship tions by saying that the group of Americans who have his- between the Justice Department administration is more torically had a negative relationship and people of color. focused on accomplishments, with law enforcement based on Jessica Wilkerson, Ashley Christopher and Michellita Taylor “I think he’s a racist, I think not quotas. To critics, the race, among other things. The latest he’s a throwback and I don’t retort comes off as if there hearing with Sessions was another Attorney Generals, Eric Holder and Loretta Lynch mind saying it, any day of the aren't people of color who are reminder for some black Americans week,” Rep. Maxine Waters (D- nominees. competent enough for the job. that despite Trump's campaign Calif.) told The Washington Post’s Sessions went on to say: “We The department announced earli- promises, these voters do stand to Jonathan Capehart in May. should look for quality candidates, er this year plans to roll back lose something under his presiden- Other lawmakers expressed con- and I think diversity is a matter that Obama-era efforts to investigate cy. cern about Sessions’s commitment to diversity during his nomination hearing, where Sen. Elizabeth Warren (D-Mass.) attempted to read excerpts of a letter written more than 30 years ago by Coretta Scott King, the wife of civil rights leader Martin Luther King Jr., to Congress to block Sessions’s appointment to a federal bench out of concern that Miltena Rembert and Johnny Rembert Jr. it would “irreparably damage the work of my husband.” Jags Fans Finally Smiling About Game We can recall how that went: Fans went wild after the Jaguars defeated the Indianapolis Colts, 30-10 Warren was rebuked by Senate last weekend. The Jaguars now advance to a 8 - 4 record and continue to Republicans, and Sessions went on share first place in the AFC South with the Tennessee Titans (8-4). The to become attorney general. Jaguars have won three consecutive games at EverBank Field for the first Now, some Democratic lawmak- time since 2010 and play their second of three straight home game next ers appear to be just as concerned Sunday, December 9th at 4:25 p.m. against the Seattle Seahawks. Go Jags! — if not more — that Session's Justice Department is more detri- Florida State University mental than beneficial to the progress of blacks in the United Chooses First Black Head Coach States. The department went from being Willie Taggart is Fisher resigned Friday to accept the headed by the first black female returning to the opening at Texas A&M . attorney general, Loretta Lynch, to Sunshine State, Taggart has a 47-50 career not having any black Americans in this time as head record, including 7-5 this season, senior positions, something football coach at but is known as a rebuilder. Bo Knows it’s his 70th Birthday! - The Moncrief Community center was the scene for friend Congressional Black Caucus Florida State. Taggart's contract with Oregon was of the community and author Willie “Bo” Walker’s 70th birthday party. Fifty of “Bo’s” closest family, friends Chairman Cedric L. Richmond (D- Taggart has for $16 million over five years that and coworkers attended the soiree. Bo is a 1965 graduate of Northwestern High School and a retiree of the United La.) probed during a House hearing agreed to become includes a $3 million buyout if he States Post Office. During his 70 years of life, Bo’s leadership included active participation in the Boy Scouts, Taggart with Sessions this week. Florida State's next left before Jan. 31, 2018. He was coaching soft ball and maintaining his membership at One Church of Jax. Bo has been married for 14 years to “I do not have a senior staff mem- coach, replacing Jimbo Fisher. The offered a four year, $20 million his wife Sandra and is the author of the book, “The ‘Bo’ you Don’t Know”. The book details his life experiences, ber at this time that's an African- 41-year old Bradenton native extension a week ago when it his Sunday school prayers, guidance and determination that have him walking in righteousness. “I have learned American,” Sessions acknowledged coached at South Florida for four appeared that the Florida State job how to be satisfied and blessed for the years I have lived,” said Bo. Guests enjoyed a feast of BBQ chicken, ribs, when asked about the significant seasons before going to Oregon. would be open. appetizers and a birthday cake fit for a king while dancing to the wee hours of the morning. decrease in diversity of judicial

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ƃCNQVVGT[EQO^/WUVDGQTQNFGTVQRNC[2NC[TGURQPUKDN[        (NQTKFC.QVVGT[   Page 4 - Ms. Perry’s Free Press December 7 - 13, 2017 GUEST EDITORIAL City Chronicles What is the Black Church’s Role in Diatribes on life in the African-American Diaspora by Reggie Fullwood Advancing Black Wealth? by John Tucker (BE) Supreme Court Ruling on the Discriminating Professor Eddie Glaude Jr. wrote a piece a few years ago, asserting “the Black Church, as we’ve known it or imagined it, is dead.” Some claim that the black church isn’t doing enough to assist with the economic, social, and political progress of the black community. Baker is Bigger than Some May Realize The Michigan Chronicle recently took a look at research reporting that well over $420 billion had been donated to the black church as of 2013— I read somewhere that “Judging what’s to stop that type of discrim- not who they choose as a partner. marriage or not, gay Americans a figure which averages out to at least $12 billion–$13 billion per year. a person doesn’t define who they ination based on other factors like Many friends of mine, much like should be entitled to the same Where Did The Money Go? are, but defines who you are.” race and gender? the pundits on television initially rights as the rest of us. And I can’t The question then turned into the whereabouts of the money donated This week, the U.S. Supreme So far, the same sex couple has said that President Obama’s deci- say it enough – same sex marriage and whether it had been spent to help progress the economic, social, and Court will hear a very interesting won at the Colorado Civil Rights sion to support same sex unions is legal. I can’t stop thinking about political stances of African Americans? case that is based on discrimination Commission and the state Court of was a bad one. Obama’s decision the fact that issues like this have Leadership Network releases reports every year on the current trends in of sorts – a Colorado baker who Appeals. But with the recent addi- was monumental on so many echoes of the Civil Rights megachurches and other data on churches in general. They find that the refused to design a wedding cake tion of Conservative Neil Gorsuch fronts. He is the first American Movement and the discrimination largest 7% of churches contain nearly 50% of all churchgoers. for a same-sex couple. to the Supreme Court, the lower President to openly support same- and bigotry faced by blacks. Furthermore, they find that nearly 100% of church revenue comes in the On the surface it appears that this courts decisions may get over- sex marriage. And he did it during “The line of progress is never form of donations and nearly 60% of said church revenue goes to staffing- issue is simply about a baker that turned. And by the way – Gorsuch a time period that could have been straight. For a period of movement related costs. Based on this data, it could be argued that the monies donat- doesn’t like gay couples so he is a native of Colorado. a major campaign issue during his may follow a straight line and then ed to churches in general, which includes the black church, are being used declined to make a wedding cake, The legal ramifications could bid for reelection. it encounters obstacles and the path mainly to compensate the individuals who are directing, performing, and but this rabbit hole is so much certainly be significant, but the I find it interesting that many of bends,” said Martin Luther King. managing the church organization, rather than being spent to feed the poor deeper than that. The verdict will social and humanitarian side of this my fellow Christians will sentence In order for America to continue as Proverbs 22:9 says. test the Constitution's guarantee of argument is substantial as well. gays to hell and damnation as if being the greatest nation on earth, Should the Donations Be Re-directed free speech and religion against Most religious leaders and con- they are God himself. But I often we must continue to evolve as a Directly Into Black Communities? state laws prohibiting discrimina- servatives are not in favor of same- times look at my Christianity in a country. Discrimination against a Various bloggers and commentators have suggested that the $12 billion tion. sex marriage for obvious reasons. very simple way – how would couple because of their sexual ori- to $13 billion per year going to black church donations could have been Does an artist have the right not But many Americans seem to be Jesus deal with this situation or entation is not progress. reinvested to buy hundreds of thousands of dollars in black homes; send to make a cake or painting for coming to the conclusion that folks issue or person. And simply stated Signing off from a chilly over 1 million black students to college, and feed literally every black someone because they are gay or a are gay not by choice, but because – Jesus is about love not hate. Washington DC, homeless person for a number of years. This amount of reinvestment minority or short or tall? Is that that’s who they are and how they Whether you agree with gay Reggie Fullwood would also assist “Buying Black Expert” Maggie Anderson with her efforts freedom of speech? were born. to redirect black dollars into more productive measures in the black com- Here is another question. Does Same sex marriage is munity; to assist with creating more black jobs. the artist or cake maker have reli- legal in America, so should Should Portions of the Donations Be gious protections under the consti- person or institution have Re-directed Directly to the Government? tution not to work for a gay couple the right to discriminate on In addition, based on the Leadership Network data along with similar because his/her religion doesn’t a lawful union of two peo- data, it has been argued throughout the years that churches should no believe in gay marriage? ple? longer benefit from 501(c)3 tax exemption status, as taxing the church rev- These are all legitimate ques- For those living in an enues would bring nearly $20 billion or more into the federal government tions and both sides have strong alternate universe – news every year. argument. flash: sexual orientation Absence During Political Progressions The owner of Masterpiece does not determine the Others, including sympathizers of the Black Lives Matter (BLM) move- Cakeshop, Jack Phillips, is essen- character of a person. ment, also believe that the black church is not aiding “enough” in efforts tially fighting for the rights of Think about Dr. Martin for political and social progression. On the heels of major media cases of "creative artists" to choose what Luther King’s “I have a unarmed black men being killed by police, many in the BLM Movement they sell and who buys their prod- dream” speech. King said, believe that the black church’s presence hasn’t been displayed enough to ucts. The same sex couple is fight- “I have a dream that my help combat in the fight against police brutality. This is in comparison to ing for the rights of LGBT cus- four little children will one the role of the black church during the civil rights movement, where its tomers to choose what they will day live in a nation where voice was heard loud and clear in the fight for progression, along with its buy. Is it right for anyone to deny they will not be judged by temple used for networking and strategy sessions within the African you service or a product simply the color of their skin, but American community. based on your sexual orientation? by the content of their char- All of these discussions and reports continue a debate revolving around Again, that’s the slippery slope acter.” This holds true to the present-day impact of the black church and if the black church still that everyone should be paying sexual orientation – we truly matters in terms of the economic, social, and political advancement attention to. If the U.S. Supreme should judge people by the of African Americans? Court rules in favor of the “artist” “content of their character” Do Black Lives Really Matter to Black People By Chris B. Bennett are demanding justice for things walk away unharmed. is a legitimate dual threat quarter- the games in protest to “45”; I bet turn the channel when your favorite For years, the African American that happen to just us. We demand In protesting these atrocities, back, who can find his way to the the ratings increased, too. team(s) play on Sunday? Do you community has been asking and justice for the racial profiling that Colin Kaepernick chose to take a end zone anytime he touches the Now, fast forward to Dallas have the courage to publicly tell insisting that our professional ath- happens to just us. We demand jus- knee during the national anthem, ball. So, why is he unemployed? Cowboys owner Jerry Jones stating people that you support the players letes do more for our community. tice for the excessive force that is because he didn’t want to stand up You can answer that question for that players on his team, who do not who choose to take a knee for jus- We ask them to give money used against just us. And we are for the flag of a country that yourself. stand for the national anthem will tice and not just us? Do you have towards initiatives and good caus- demanding justice, on behalf of oppresses Black people and people As a result of what many believe not play, and “45” praises him for the courage to proudly wear the jer- es, we ask them to be role models, millions of voiceless African of color. In fact, Kaepernick was was the blackballing of Kaepernick doing so. Ironic? I don’t think so. sey of Colin Kaepernick, Michael and we ask them to stand up, speak Americans all across the country, quoted as saying, “To me, this is by the NFL, many people across Don’t let them fool you, “45” and Bennett or any other player who up and speak out on issues affecting for the lives that have been lost as a bigger than football and it would be this country, many of them Black NFL owners have been joined at the chooses to kneel or sit during the our community. result of law enforcement officers selfish on my part to look the other women, decided to boycott the hip in the process from the very national anthem? Do you have the And yet, as you read this article shooting us (unarmed, Black way. There are bodies in the street NFL this season; and the boycott is beginning. The 45th occupant of courage to start your own personal today, there are pro football players Americans) at alarming rates. and people getting paid leave and and was successful, so much so that the White House carried the water social media campaign supporting that have taken a stance against Numbers don’t lie, and videos getting away with murder.” the NFL, mainstream media and the of the NFL owners, helped sway those players who take a knee to oppression, police brutality and the don’t lie either. Black men are For taking such a stance, 45th occupant led people to believe some sort of public opinion against say that Black lives matter just as killing of Black people by law killed by police officers in extraju- Kaepernick is no longer employed that the low ratings of NFL games the players and now the owners feel much as any other lives in this enforcement officers all across this dicial shootings at much higher as an NFL player. We hear all the this season were a result of White empowered to bring down their country? Are you willing to show country. Yet, these athletes are rates that far outweigh the rate of excuses about why he does not men not watching the NFL, oppressive hammers on the players. your unwavering support for those under attack by the media, by that White men are shot and killed have a job as a quarterback in the because Black players were protest- The 45th occupant of the White who are standing tall by taking a “fans” who claim that they have by police officers, which indicates NFL. You can believe the excuses if ing that national anthem. Then, the House will take credit for bringing knee during the national anthem? ruined the game of football, to me that these killings repeatedly you want, but I would challenge 45th occupant of the White House, “law and order” to the plantation, Will you write a letter, email or because they will not stand during happen to just us; and think about you to answer this question: Do you in his puppeteering ways, stepped and the NFL owners will walk tweet to the NFL, the 45th occupant the national anthem…and yes, the the number of videos that we have honestly want to see Colin forward and said that the NFL away with little or no blood on their of the White House and your con- players have even come under seen that show Black people Kaepernick playing quarterback should fire anyone, who refuses to hands. gressional delegation expressing attack by the 45th occupant of the gunned down, choked out, manhan- against your favorite team on stand for the national anthem, and The real story is that a handful of your concerns about this issue? Do White House. dled and beaten; while at the same Sunday? Your honest answer would accused those who chose to kneel players have stood up for what they you have the backbone to stand up The Black Lives Matter move- time we see videos of Whites bla- probably be “No,” because despite during the national anthem of disre- feel is right. Now the question is, and advocate for freedom, justice ment and the many of the NFL tantly disrespecting police officers any flaws or inconsistencies that he specting the flag and being unpatri- what is the African American com- and equality for those who are no players are standing up (or kneel- and daring them to do something to may have in his game, Colin otic. Black folks took offense and I munity going to do to support longer here to speak for them- ing) for justice and “just us.” We them, and those suspects are able to Kaepernick is a game changer. He believe that they decided to watch them? Do you have the courage to selves?

DISCLAIMER SUBSCRIBE TODAY The United State provides oppor- Yes, I’d like to tunities for free expression of ideas. The Jacksonville Free Press has its subscribe to the view, but others may differ. Therefore, the Free Press ownership Jacksonville Free Press! reserves the right to publish views and opinions by syndicated and Enclosed is my local columnist, professional writers and other writers’ which are solely PHYSICAL ADDRESS TELEPHONE check __ money order __ MAILING ADDRESS their own. Those views do not neces- for $40.50 to cover my P.O. Box 43580 1122 W. Edgewood Ave. (904) 634-1993 sarily reflect the policies and posi- Jacksonville, FL 32208 tions of the staff and management of one year subscription. Jacksonville, FL 32203 Fax (904) 765-8611 the Jacksonville Free Press. Email: [email protected] Readers, are encouraged to write letters to the editor commenting on NAME ______Sylvia Perry Rita Perry current events as well as what they wouldlike to see included in the ADDRESS______PUBLISHER Publisher Emeritus paper. All letters must be type writ- ten and signed and include a tele- phone number and address. Please CITY ______STATE____ ZIP______CONTRIBUTORS: Lynn Jones, Charles Griggs, Camilla Thompson, Reginald Fullwood, address letters to the Editor, c/o E.O.Huthchinson, William Reed, Andre X, Brenda Burwell, Marsha Oliver, Marretta JFP, P.O. Box 43580 Jacksonville, MAIL TO: JACKSONVILLE FREE PRESS Latimer, Phyllis Mack, Tonya Austin, Carlottra Guyton, Brenda Burwell, Rhonda Silver, Vickie Brown, Rahman Johnson, Headshots, William Jackson. FL 32203. (No CALLS PLEASE) P.O. BOX 43580, JACKSONVILLE, FL 32203 December 7 - 13, 2017 Ms. Perry’s Free Press - Page 5

FOR THE WEEK OF DECEMBER 5 - 11, 2017 Grambling takes SWAC title, Bowl bid by LUT WILLIAMS BCSP Editor Downs Alcorn State 40-32 West Division champ and BCSP No. 2 for second straight SWAC crown ™ Grambling State (11-1) put up 28 unanswered and berth second-quarter points to jump on top of East Di- vision champ Alcorn State at the break and held end zone on a 15-yard pass from Kincade to on to defeat the Braves 40-32 in the 19th and last tight end Jordan Jones to go up 24-10. The Ti- scheduled SWAC Championship Game Satur- gers recovered a Braves fumble two plays after day in . the kickoff at the Alcorn 46 and cashed in four

SWAC Championsihp Game Logo With the win, Grambling’s second straight SOD\VODWHUZKHQ.LQFDGHUDQLQIURP\DUGV championship game victory over Alcorn State, away to lead 31-10. G-MEN ARE BACK: the Tigers will now represent the SWAC for the After another Alcorn 3-and-out, GSU GRAMBLING Atop SWAC after 40- BACK TO BACK CHAMPS: Grambling players PREVAILS 32 title game win over second year in a row in the third annual Air Force GURYH\DUGVLQVL[SOD\VDQGVFRUHGRQ.LQ- pose with 2017 SWAC Championship Game Tro- Alcorn State and in Reserve Celebration Bowl vs. MEAC champion cade’s 4-yard toss to Quinton Guice to give the phy after defeating Alcorn State, 40-32 Saturday AGAIN in . and BCSP No. 1 North Carolina A&T on Dec. Tigers the big 38-10 lead headed at the half. in Houston. 16 at the new Mercedes Benz Stadium in Atlan- But in effect, that would be the game or at SETS UP NO. 1 VS. NO. 2 IN CELEBRATION BOWL; WD,WVWKHÀQDOJDPHRIWKHVHDVRQWKDWZLOO least all the G-Men would need to claim their drive for a tying score. Beginning with less than WYATT OUT AT EWC; SWAC NAMES TOP PLAYERS determine the BCSP national champion. second straight SWAC championship. After a a minute left, the Braves drove to the Grambling Grambling QB Devante Kincade scored on scoreless third quarter that saw back-up quar- 48 before time ran out. D\DUGÀUVWTXDUWHUUXQLQWKHJDPH·VRSHQLQJ terback Geremy Hickbottom come in for Kin- Kincade, named last week as the SWAC’s possession but Alcorn answered with a 2-yard cade, Grambling only scored on an early fourth- Offensive Player of the Year, passed for 223 DeLance Turner touchdown run in the ensuing quarter safety. \DUGV   DQG WZR VFRUHV DQG UDQ IRU  UNDER THE BANNER SRVVHVVLRQ%RWKWHDPVIXPEOHGOHDGLQJWRÀUVW After the safety, Alcorn recovered a Hick- yards on 11 carries and another two scores to WHAT'S GOING ON IN AND AROUND BLACK COLLEGE SPORTS TXDUWHUÀHOGJRDOVWKDWVDZWKHSHULRGHQGLQD bottom fumble that started a comeback and saw win the game’s MVP award. GSU linebacker 10-10 tie. WKH%UDYHVVFRUHRQWKHLUQH[WWKUHHSRVVHVVLRQV De’Andre Hogues was the defensive MVP af- But the Tigers opened the second quarter 7KHÀQDOVFRUHWKDWSXOOHGWKHPWRZLWKLQ ter registering a team-high tying seven tackles, a scoring on a 5-yard Martez Carter run to lead 32 came on a 6-yard run from Turner with just sack and a forced fumble. DQGVFRUHGRQLWVQH[WWKUHHSRVVHVVLRQV under two minutes to play. Grambling recovered QB Lenorris Footman’sSDVVLQJ\DUGV while building a 38-10 lead at the break. the ensuing onsides kick but was not able to (20-34-0) and Turner’s 134 rushing yards and Following Carter’s score, Grambling move the ball. A Grambling punt to the Alcorn two scores led the Braves. Marquis Watford stopped Alcorn on a 3-and-out and reached the 2-yard line gave the Braves one last chance to had seven receptions for 131 yards.

Kincade Christmas McElfresh BCSP Notes 2017 SWAC FOOTBALL HONORS: Alcorn State's Reginal Johnson breaks leg, BIRMINGHAM, Ala. – The Southwestern Ath- likely out for the season letic Conference released its top football honorees and BIRMINGHAM, Ala. – The Southwestern Athletic Conference re- $OO&RQIHUHQFH 7HDPV ZLWK  turning scoring leader and Preseason Player of the Year, Reginal Johnson Cannon Hall Kincade Raynard players from head coach Broderick of Alcorn State, LVH[SHFWHGWREHORVWIRUWKHVHDVRQ Fobbs’ SWAC champion Grambling after breaking his leg last Wednesday in a game at Tu- which is composed of Black Hall of Fame founders State being tabbed for the most indi- lane. James "Shack" Harris and Doug Williams, longtime SBN Broadcaster vidual honors. Johnson, a 6-5, 230-pound forward for the and Director of News and Sports for the Power News Radio Network Ty The teams were announced Braves, averaged 16.0 points per game a season ago, Miller, former USA Today sports writer Roscoe Nance, and ESPN Col- WZR GD\V SULRU WR WKH  7R\RWD tops among returning SWAC players, and 6.3 re- lege Football Analyst Jay Walker. Fobbs SWAC Football Championship at bounds. This season through eight games he was aver-  7KHZLQQHURIWKH%ODFN&ROOHJH)RRWEDOO3OD\HURIWKH

First Church of Palm Coast Presents “The Messiah” Spiritually Speaking: 'Rejuvenated in Handel's classic, “The Messiah,” will bring musical magic to a perform- ance to begin the Christmas season. The First Church Ensemble will perform the oratorio at the First Church the spirit' spurs a homecoming of faith of Palm Coast, pastored by the Reverend Gillard S. Glover. “The Messiah” will be conducted by Dr. Samuel Shingles, director of Choral new covenant under which we all a special feeling at knowing you’re incredible. If the truth be told, that Activities at the Paxon School for Advanced Studies. Dr. Shingles is for- now live. Now some of y’all might going home for Thanksgiving, party is still going on and everybody merly dean of Arts and Sciences, department chair of Music, and choir think I’m being a little sacrilegious Christmas, family reunions and is anticipating when you walk director at Edward Waters College. The performance will begin at 4 p.m., here, but I promise you I am not. other infrequent anniversaries and through the door. That’s that Jesus on Saturday, December 9th at the First Church of Palm Coast located at After the beatings, stabbing, celebrations which bring sheer joy thing again. 91 North Old Kings Road, Palm Coast, FL. For more info contact Jeroline thorns and nails, after the praying to just at the thought of seeing loved I find it illuminating that after D. McCarthy at (386) 446-5759. not have to go through the save the ones soon. There are many families death, Christ walked among us world ordeal and that father forgive waiting at airports today for service- without the disfigured body on the them they don’t get it thing, I am men and women returning from war cross, except for enough to make Wayman Ministries 10th Annual sure Jesus was ready to get up out of zones. There are children about to believers out of the doubting Community Christmas Fellowship here. burst with unbridled enthusiasm Thomases. That’s proof that when Job well done! Mission accom- because they know in a few min- you get to the party, you too will be Pastor Mark Griffin and congregation of Wayman Ministries presents plished! Let’s go be God again. utes, mommy or daddy will be com- perfect in your form and perfect in by James Washington their 10th Community Christmas Fellowship event set for Saturday, What a rush! Can you imagine the ing down that runway. your reception. This may not be a For some reason, the phrase “reju- December 9th at the Wayman Academy of the Arts gymnasium Ministries celebration in heaven at the return That anticipation is what I am typical column but, based on the venated in the spirit’ is resonating West Campus located at 1176 Labelle Street. The Community Christmas of this Son? describing as “rejuvenated in the cross event, you too are transformed with me right now. My reference Fellowship is a free family friendly event that includes a toy giveaway, Now if you remember before He spirit.” I just believe if we could from “glory unto glory.” point is the crucifixion of Jesus music, food, prizes and gifts for parents, and more! New, unwrapped toys left, He spent a little more time view the cross as a symbol of our If you can feel what I feel today, Christ. are being collected for children ages birth to 17 years. To make a donation hanging out, letting folk see touch eternal life after death, then maybe then you understand being rejuve- I have been revisiting Christ’s last or for more info call Wanda Patterson at (904) 739-7500. and feel His redemption of us. I we could look upon death a little nated. I am because He is. I will experience on earth and was struck can’t help but sense His expectancy differently than we currently do. because He fulfilled the Word and by the fact that God as Christ had to of being a member of the Godhead I mean really. If you call yourself I’ll see you when you get there. be excited, if not relieved to be again, as He continued to fulfill His a believer, then that’s what this is all I just know that’s a welcome to Greater Tabernacle Baptist Church going home. I mean think about it calling. about. look forward to. Until then, may this way: He humbled himself by December Celebration and Services I know many of you can attest to The party for Christ had to be God bless and keep you always. putting on human skin to fulfill the Greater Tabernacle Baptist Church located at 5730 Sawyer Avenue will present the pastors birthday and appreciation celebration services on Sunday, December 17th at 4 p.m.; Monday, December 24th celebrate Christmas Eve during the 11 a.m. youth led worship service; Sunday, Millennials Leading the Concern Against AIDS December 31st attend New Years Eve Watch Night Service beginning at 9:45 p.m. The community is invited to bring clothes to the clothing min- Young Black people are much Foundation found. The survey was istry located at 1781 Herlena St. Greater Tabernacle Baptist Church is more “concerned” about the global published Thursday., one day before under the leadership of Reverend J.C. Green. For more details call the HIV and AIDS epidemic in compar- the annual observation of World church office at (904) 768-2725. ison to all other demographic in AIDS Day. America, according to a new study. Exacerbating those findings are And it’s for good reason, too, as the fact that Black Americans Summerville Baptist Church African-Americans are affected the “account for a higher proportion of most by the sexually transmitted new HIV diagnoses, those living Celebrates Senior Members Day virus despite having a dispropor- with HIV, and those ever diagnosed The community is invited to share and attend service at Summerville tionate representation among the with AIDS, compared to other Baptist Church as the church honors their senior members, Sunday, overall population. races/ethnicities,” according to the December 17th at 11 a.m. Summerville Missionary Baptist Church is Nearly half of Black Americans Centers for Disease Control and located at 690 W. 20th St. and under the leadership of Pastor James W. from 18 to 30 years old were espe- Prevention (CDC). Henry. Guest speaker is Bishop Rudolph McKissick Sr. Pastor Emeritus cially worried about HIV and AIDS As such, about 34 percent of of Bethel Baptist Institutional Church. The evening 5 p.m. service will when it comes to people they know. Black people were rightfully con- present the youth and adult Sunday school Christmas program. The pub- That figure of 46 percent was more cerned about contracting the dis- lic is invited to share with the Summerville congregation as the church than three times the number for ease, compared to just 16 percent of remembers the greatest gift mankind has ever received. For more infor- White people, a survey conducted White people. mation call (904) 354-8186. by the Henry J. Kaiser Family There appeared to be a silver lin- ing when it comes to awareness, ed for 40 percent of Americans liv- though: Young Black folks are also ing with HIV in 2013, the year with the ones most likely to get an HIV the most recent statistics available, #Churchtoo: Women Share Stories of Sexual Abuse Involving the Church test, a key fact considering the virus according to the CDC. is older than they are. Black people in general around Hundreds of women have been has given both believers and nonbe- Rosemary Johnson said: "I CAN- the revelations should not come as a “An entire generation has been the world have also been lopsidedly revealing stories of rape, sexual lievers the chance to add to the rev- NOT COUNT the number of times surprise to people: born and grown up without ever diagnosed with HIV and AIDS, with abuse and harassment that they suf- elations. I've heard guys in church PUB- "If you want to know how Jesus knowing a time when HIV did not Africa being ground zero with a fered inside church or at the hands "Growing up in purity culture, I LICLY admit to molestation, harass- felt about women & treated women, exist, and they may be the first to reported whopping 69 percent of the of Christian men in leadership, was taught that men were 'visual ment, assault, etc, only to be praised read the Gospels. Anything & any- see it end,” Tina Hoff, Senior Vice world’s 34 million HIV diagnoses. using the #churchtoo hashtag to creatures' that couldn't help feeling for their bravery & honesty. No con- one that does not reflect what you President, Health Communications More than 90 percent of HIV posi- shed light on countless disturbing aroused at the sight of slightly sequences. The church's legacy of see in Jesus in black and white on and Media Partnerships, Kaiser tive children around the world are in experiences. revealed ankles or knees, and that protecting abusers is sickening." those pages may wear a Christian Family Foundation, said in a press Africa, as well. While many Christian women, all men were imagining me naked "I was sexually & physically label but never confuse that with release. “Whether this future is real- While there has yet to be a cure, including notable figures such as 24/7," wrote a user by the name abused by a bf who was also a mem- Christlike," Moore, who is also the ized rests with those most affected vaccine trials are ongoing, including Beth Moore and Kay Warren, Sarah Lacour. ber of my church," another user founder of Living Proof Ministries, being educated about – and having one that recently launched in sub- shared their stories of abuse in "The entire system shamed with the handle @alittleotmark stated. access to – the latest advances in Saharan Africa, according to the October under the #MeToo hashtag, women for even existing," she revealed. "Jesus is no misogynist. Read & prevention and treatment.” National Institutes of Health. Twitter discussion under #churchtoo added. Kimberly Ann Moore argued that see," she added. In the U.S., Black people account- Greater Macedonia Bethel Baptist Institutional Church Baptist Church 215 Bethel Baptist Street, Jacksonville, FL 32202 (904) 354-1464 1880 West Edgewood Avenue Weekly Services Sunday Morning Worship Midweek Seeking the lost for Christ 8:00 a.m. and 10:30 a.m. - Matthew 28:19 - 20 Church school Services 9:30 a.m. Wednesday Noon Service “Miracle at Midday” Bible Study Bishop Rudolph 12 noon - 1:00 p.m. Bishop Rudolph 8:00 A.M. Early Morning Worship McKissick, Jr. 6:45 p.m. McKissick, Sr.. Senior Pastor 9:30 a.m. Sunday School Pastor Emeritus Come share in Holy Communion on 1st Sunday at 7:40 and 10:40 a.m. 11:00 a.m. Morning Worship Tuesday Evening - 7 p.m. Prayer Service Wednesday - Bible Study 6:30 - 7 p.m. Worship with Mid-Week Worship 7 p.m. us LIVE on Radio Weekly Broadcast - WCGL 1360 AM the web visit Sunday 2 PM - 3 PM www.truth2powerministries.org **FREE TUTORING FOR YOUTH IN ENGLISH, SCIENCE, Dr. Landon Williams HISTORY AND MATH EVERY TUESDAY 6:30 - 8 P.M.

The doors of Macedonia are always open to you and your family. If we may be of any assistance Grace and Peace to you in your spiritual walk, please contact us at 764-9257 or via email at [email protected]. visit www.Bethelite.org December 7 - 13, 2017 Ms. Perry’s Free Press - Page 7 Flipping Through 31st Anniversary the Free Press Files Over theOver past the twenty past 31years, years, many many people, people, places places and and events events have have graced graced the the Free Free Press Press pages. pages. Join Join us us as as we we glimpse back atglimpse some of back the events at some that of helpedthe events shape that our helped newspaper shape intoour thenewspaper publication into that the itpublication is today. that it is today.

Deborah Thompson, Emma Morgan, Tonyaa Weathersbea and Emma Wachovia executives Eloise Adamss and Debbie Moran attend the annual Urban League Equal Opportunity Luncheon Martha Barrett strikes a pose with Doug Brown and Spencer attend a community together. where Board member Ralph Christian was the Master of Ceremonies. Felice Franklin at a civic luncheon.

Priscilla Wiliamson and Georgia Lewis attend an annual holiday luncheon for BBIC seniors. Hattie Mills and Sarah Potts also attending the holiday luncheon, with Thelma Jones and Alma Daniels all smiles.

Phi Delta Kappa Sorority Salutes Black History with the theme: “Afro American Negro League players, including the late Buck O’Neil, gathered for ceremonies at James Celebrating Their Rich Heritage Inherited In The 20th Century.” P. Small Ball Park on Myrtle Avenue where many of them once played.

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Dara, Reese and Kemba with dad, Reese Marshall. The The Bold City Chapter of Links held their first induction successful attorney’s offspring include an ad executive, a in 1996 by adding 2 “Heir-O-Links” to their clan, Gwen Marc Little and Rev. Joe Carswell attend a community future lawyer and a veterinarian. Mitchell and Sylvia Perry (front seated). meeting together. SUBSCRIBE TODAY Subscription rare $40.50 and delivered in your mailbox usua;;y no later than Friday. Without us, you miss so much!

Call 634-1993 Today!UNCF helps thousands of deserving students. But we have to turn away thousands more. So please give to the United Negro College Fund. Your donation will make a difference. Visit uncf.org or call 1-800-332-8623. Page 8 - Ms. Perry’s Free Press December 7 - 13, 2017 AROUNDAROUND TOWNTOWN

What to do from social, volunteer, political and sports activities to self enrichment and the civic scene

Squirrel Nut Zippers up your holiday this year with his 11th at 2 p.m. For more info visit Board Party” taking place Sunday, located at 225 E. Coastline Drive. Bronx, will be giving a PowerPoint The Ritz Theatre and Museum is wit, wisecracks and wisdom! For www.blackmensnovement.org. December 10th at 3 p.m. at 7750 Keynote Speaker is Fanatics presentation entitled "The Bronx proud to announce the Squirrel Nut tickets and more info visit at Belfort Pkway. For more info email President of Merchandising, Jack The Way It Was" which will revisit Zippers Annual Christmas Caravan www.THcenter.org. Annual Community [email protected]. Boyle. For more info contact The Bronx of the 1930s - 1960s and Tour on Friday, December 8th at Nutcracker Alanna Hurlbert at the RSVP hot features slides, video clips, and Historic Springfield Second Sunday line: (904) 366-6600 x 7788. Bronx celebrity interviews, 7:30 p.m. Featuring the band per- The 26th Annual Community forming classic holiday songs at the Home Tour at Stetson’s Tuesday, December 19th at 2 p.m., Nutcracker featuring more than 200 JRE Lee FAMU at the Main Library, located at 303 Ritz Theatre and Museum located at The 31st annual Springfield local dancers ranging in ages from 9 Stetson Kennedy Foundation pres- 829 North Davis Street. For tickets Laura Street North. For more info Holiday Home tour will take place to adult performing the classic two- ents “Second Sunday at Stetson’s,” Alumni Meeting visit www.backinthebronx.com. visit www.ticketmaster.com. December 8-9, 5 - 9 p.m. For more act ballet will take the stage musical series, artistic events and Let's get those fangs up and con- info call (904) 633-9308 Saturday, December 9th at 7 p.m. food drive at his home Sunday, tinue to strike by attending the JRE Toys for Tots Seasons to Remember at the Florida Theater located at 128 December 10th, in Fruit Cove, Fl Lee Jacksonville FAMU NAA The Justice Coalition presents JJS Meeting E Forsyth St. For tickets and more featuring performers from the Chapter next meeting, Thursday, Christmas Drive “Seasons to Remember” a special The Jacksonville Jazz Society info visit www.floridatheatre.com. Florida Music Food Initiative December 14th, at 6 p.m. at the Bring your new and unwrapped night honoring innocent victims of next meeting will be held on (FMFI). For more info email leigh- FAMU College of Pharmacy locat- toys to the annual “Toys for Tots” violent crimes is scheduled for Saturday, December 9th, at 12:00 Tuesdays with Morrie [email protected]. ed at 2050 Art Museum Drive, Christmas Drive for children ages 3 Friday, December 8th, at 5:30 p.m. noon. The location is Breezy Jazz The beloved New York Times Building 4800, Suite 200. For more to 13 and gift cards for children age Location is Redemption Church Club at 119 West Adams Street. best-seller, Tuesdays with Morrie, Alhambra Theatre 50 info email: [email protected]. 14- 16. Thursday, December 21st, located at 2000 Lane Avenue South. Jacksonville Jazz Society Inc. (JJS) will come to life on the historic Year Birthday Bash 6-9 p.m. Location is the Buddha For more info call (904) 783-6312. Comedian Roz McCoy Bar located at 974 San Marco Blvd. is a volunteer organization of jazz Florida Theatre for one perform- The Alhambra Theatre will pres- enthusiasts, jazz musicians, jazz ance, Sunday, December 10th at 3 Comedian Roz McCoy appearing To donate and for more info contact The Harlem ent “50 Years of Memories” birth- Jackie Davis at (912) 467-2828. scholars, jazz media professionals, p.m. This new stage adaption stars day bash, Monday, December 11th, at the Comedy Club of Jacksonville Globetrotters are back! jazz club owners and managers. M*A*S*H’s Jamie Farr as Morrie located at 11000 Beach Blvd., 5:30 p.m. at the Alhambra Theater A Christmas Carol Get your tickets to witness the For more info email JSS member Schwartz. Tickets can be purchased located at 12000 Beach Blvd. Enjoy Thursday, December 14th at 8 p.m. original Harlem Globetrotters exhi- Ann Scott at [email protected]. at www.floridatheatre.com. the reception in the garden Elvis For tickets and more info visit Charles Dickens’ Classic: A bition basketball team that com- Presley tribute, dinner by executive www.jacksonvillecomedy.com. Christmas Carol returns to bines athleticism, theater and come- Marketing Business JBDTC Night Chef DeJuan Roy, commemorative Jacksonville this Christmas and will dy, Friday, December 8th, at 7 p.m. Party of Music & Dance presentation, surprise guests, danc- NAACP Meeting take the stage at 7:30 p.m. on at Veterans Memorial Arena located ing and the big band sounds of the Thursday, December 21st, at the Attend the Marketing Business The public is invited to the & Open House Times-Union Center located at 300 at 300 A Philip Randolph Blvd. For Party workshop scheduled for Jacksonville Beach Deck the Chairs Chris Thomas Band! For tickets and The Jacksonville Branch NAACP tickets and more info www.jax- visit www.alhambrajax.com. Water St. For tickets and more info Saturday, December 9th at 10 a.m. Create Joy Night of Music & Dance will hold its monthly meeting and visit www.fscjartistseries.org. events.com. at the Wells Fargo Springfield cen- to be held Sunday, December 10th open house to showcase the new Janet Jackson Tour ter located at 1601 Main St. N. The from 4 p.m. – 8 p.m. More than 40 location at the Beaver Street Experience Charlie Comedian Joe Torry workshop brings together market- decorated lifeguard chairs will be Janet Jackson, “State of the World Enterprise Center located at 1225 Come hear laugh out loud comedy ing agencies, media companies, and on display in Latham Plaza and the Tour” is scheduled for Tuesday, Beaver Street, Thursday, December Brown Christmas with comedian Joe Torry, small business agencies to help Seawalk Pavilion area. The night December 12, at 8 p.m. at Veterans 14th, at 7 p.m. For more info call A Charlie Brown Christmas Live! December 8-9, 10 p.m. at the small businesses and nonprofits will feature five area dance compa- Memorial Arena located at 300 A the NAACP at (904) 265-4702. Friday, December 22nd at 7 p.m. Comedy Club of Jacksonville locat- understand how to achieve market- nies, visit by Santa, kids’ activities, Philip Randolph Blvd. For tickets Join Charlie Brown, Snoopy, Lucy, ed at 11000 Beach Blvd, Unit 8. ing success. For tickets visit food trucks, concessions and an and more info visit www.ticketmas- Fun Night at Linus, and the rest of the For tickets and more info visit www.slcareerstudio.ticketleap.com. appearance by the Jacksonville ter.com. gang as they mount a play, save a www.jacksonvillecomedy.com. Icemen! For more info contact American Beach forlorn little tree, and uncover the 10,000 Black Men Kurtis Loftus at (904) 716-3853. JAXUSA Partnership The American Beach Property true meaning of Christmas at the A Christmas Owners Association, Inc. inaugural Florida Theatre, located at 128 E Florida March Luncheon Christmas Game/Fun Night will A Garfield Christmas takes the Women’s Vision Forsyth Street. For tickets and more The Black Educators for Justice The 4th Quarter JAXUSA take place Saturday, December info visit www.floridatheatre.com. stage Friday, December 8th at 7 and Unity presents the 10,000 Board Party Partnership Luncheon is scheduled 16th, 6 - 10 p.m. at the American p.m. at the Thrasher-Horne Center Black Men’s Conference March on The Goal Diggers presents for Thursday, December 14th at Beach Community Center located Simonds Johnson located at 283 College Drive, Florida, Saturday December 9 - “Women with Visions: Vision 11:30 a.m. at the Hyatt Regency at 1600 Julia Street, Fernandina Orange Park, FL. Garfield will light Beach, FL Admission is one Reunion Meeting wrapped Christmas toy! Enjoy Simonds-Johnson Park food, card/board games, dancing Community Reunion Committee and more! For more info email: invites the community to their SUBSCRIBE TODAY FOR ONLY $40.50 [email protected]. annual Christmas Dinner Dance scheduled for Friday, December Beauty, Brains and 22nd, 6 - 11 p.m. at Morris Manor Auditorium located at 9050 Norfolk Business Holiday Social Blvd. Come out and enjoy seeing There will be a “Beauty, Brains childhood friends and teammates. and Business,” holiday edition of Festive Holiday music, food, danc- social shopping, featuring live ing and fun is on tap for all! For entertainment, food, deserts, pop- tickets and more info call Yvonne up vendors giveaways and more, Brockington at (904) 613-6251. Saturday, December 16th, 5 - 8 p.m. Location is Myth Nightclub Kwanzaa Celebration located at 333 E. Bay St. To become a vendor and for more info call Celebrate Kwanzaa with the (407) 801-2330. African Village at the Ritz Theater located at 829 N. Davis St., Wednesday, December 27th at 11 AAMHI a.m. The theme is ‘Kujichaculia” Christmas Gala meaning self-determination, to The African American Mental define and name ourselves, as well Health Initiative (AAMHI) will as to create and speak for ourselves! present the 3rd Annual Christmas For more info visit www.ritzjack- Gala on Saturday, December 16th, sonville.com. 6 - 10 p.m. at UNF's Adam W. Herbert University Center, at 12000 FLAJax Christmas Ball Alumni Dr. This year’s theme is “A The Fla Jax Club’s annual Night of Hope”. Special guest Christmas Ball is scheduled for speaker is NFL legend Donovin Friday, December 29th at 8 p.m. at Darius. For tickets and more info the Double Tree by Hilton, located call (904) 899-2614. at 1201 Riverplace Blvd. The club was founded in 1930 by a group of Back in the prominent, African American men Bronx Dialogue whose motto is based on leadership, integrity, and fidelity. For tickets SUBSCRIPTION RATES Steve Samtur, Editor and Publisher and more info contact James of “Back In The Bronx” magazine Andrews at (904) 868-9150. Enclosed is my __ check __ money order for $40.50$38.50 (within city limits) __$45.00__$43.00 (outside of Jacksonville) and author of three books on The

NAME ______Do You Have an Event ADDRESS ______for Around Town? CITY ______STATE______ZIP______The Jacksonville Free Press is pleased to print your public service announcements and coming events free of charge. news deadline is Monday at 6 p.m. by the week If this is a gift subscription it is provided by (so gift notification card can be sent) you would like your information to be printed. Information can be sent via email, fax, brought into our ______office or mailed in. Please be sure to include the 5W’s - who, what, when, where, why and you must include a Please send check or money order to: Jacksonville Free Press contact number. P.O. Box 43580, Jacksonville, FL 32203 Email - [email protected] Fax (904) 765-8611 If you would like to pay by Visa or Mastercard, give us a call at (904) 634-1993 Mail: Coming Events Jacksonville Free Press 1122 W. Edgewood Ave. Jacksonville, FL 32203 Page 9 - Mrs. Perry’s Free Press December 7 - 13, 2017

HBO Removes ’ Tamron Hall’s New Talk Show in Jeopardy Over Harvey Weinstein Controversy Name from All Def Comedy Series Former Today co-anchor the development deal she signed I’ve seen with domestic violence While HBO is still moving for- Tamron Hall was as excited as with The Weinstein Co., according survivors; fear that I’ve seen when ward with the “All Def Comedy” ever to share the news that she to an interview she did with The I interviewed women who were stand-up series, they will be doing would soon have her own talk Huffington Post. raped on their college campuses,” so without Russell Simmons. show. Unfortunately, it appears the The Temple University alum Hall said in her interview. Last week, the network con- new program is tied to Hollywood says she was visiting Safe Haven She went on to say that although firmed that it had removed exec Harvey Weinstein, who was Shelter for Women when she Weinstein never behaved inappro- Simmons from the project, follow- recently outed for decades of sex- learned the news. priately with her, the only thing ing allegations of sexual assault ual harassment allegations in an “It’s a woman’s worst nightmare that matters is what he has admit- surrounding the star. expose by The New York Times. to be in a situation where you ted to doing and what his women “HBO will be airing All Def Hall was reportedly so disturbed believe someone more powerful accusers have said. Comedy as planned,” an HBO by the claims that she called has control over your life. I imme- Hall is no longer completely spokesperson said. “However, Weinstein soon after learning of diately thought about the women comfortable with her deal, which Russell Simmons will not appear the report, and is now speaking who have suffered in silence and will lead to delays in the show’s in the new series and we will be with her agents about next steps on were paralyzed by fear; fear that production. removing his name from the show moving forward. The series is a platform for promising and upcoming comedians and we do Daughter of Slain Rapper Notorious not want to deprive them of an earlier this year. The series will be Jenny Lumet of forcing her to opportunity to showcase their tal- produced by Simmons’ All Def have sex with him in 1991. While ents to a national audience. We Digital. Simmons said that he remembered B.I.G. Opens Clothing Boutique have no other projects with Amid the allegations mounting the incident differently, he Russell Simmons.” against him, Simmons recently acknowledged that her “feelings of The comedy series is set to pre- announced that he would be step- fear and intimidation are real” and miere this Friday, with six half- ping down from his companies. has apologized to her. hour episodes ordered by HBO Simmons was accused by writer Kim Fields Memoir on Coming of Age in Hollywood The narrative of child stars enter- when auditioning for roles because ing the entertainment industry with she thought her race would be an promising careers but struggling obstacle. “I was a little girl, I was a with the Hollywood lifestyle in little Black girl, and I walked into adulthood is all too common. Kim this sea of television-ready White Fields shares in her new memoir girls. The perfect blonde hair or how she avoided the stumbling brown eyes, blue eyes. And I just blocks that her counterparts hit felt like, I’m not supposed to be while coming of age in the enter- here,” she said, according to the tainment industry, Fox News news outlet. T’yanna Wallace, daughter of slain rapper Notorious B.I.G. stands in front of her store reported. As she grew older, took on more Fields - best known for her roles roles, and established a successful T’yanna Wallace, the daughter of newly opened shop to celebrate not while still paying tribute to him, CJ on shows like “Facts of Life” and acting career, Fields dealt with the luminary rapper Notorious only Wallace’s success but Biggie’s Wallace pointed to the spelling of “Living Single”—released body shaming behind the scenes. B.I.G., has just opened her first life as family members reminisced the store: “Two S’s for her individ- “Blessed Life,” which chronicles She says the media “wasn’t very brick and mortar clothing store. about him. uality. She wanted to do something her early beginnings in Harlem and kind,” and she and her castmates Notoriouss, which opened last- “This is a huge, huge, huge mon- a little different but still be tied to her journey in the entertainment were often called out for gaining weekend in Brooklyn, NY, not only ument, huge milestone for her. her father, our father.” Fields industry. In the autobiography, she weight. In “Blessed Life,” she cred- draws from Biggie’s name and We’re happy for her, and we’re just Notoriouss brand clothing has recounts her lack of confidence its her family and others who were close to her with keeping her well- branding but from hip-hop as a excited to be here,” said CJ been available online since 2013, grounded as she transitioned into whole as well as New York City Wallace, Biggie’s son and but the store in Brooklyn marks the womanhood. She also says her fam- itself, from which Biggie drew a lot T’yanna’s brother. first brick-and-mortar boutique for Terry Crews Sues ily played an integral role in pre- of the inspiration for his songs. As for how Wallace is distin- Wallace. venting her from indulging in a Last weekend, people packed the guishing herself from her father wild Hollywood lifestyle, which for Sexual Harrassment damaged many of the other teenagers in the industry. Actor Terry Crews has decided to “When I was unsure, when the take legal action against the waters just seemed to be so unchart- Hollywood agent he accused of ed… And so for me, I didn’t want to sexually assaulting him last year, be a statistic. I didn’t want to be a filing a lawsuit against Adam Venit has-been. There was a little ego for allegedly grabbing his genitals involved,” Fields told Fox News. at an industry event. Fields’ career in front of the cam- The Brooklyn-Nine-Nine star first era has opened doors for her to came forward with the troubling expand her repertoire and sit in the accusations in a lengthy Twitter director’s chair. Some of her direc- rant, inspired by the many women tor credits include “Living Single”, and men who have also called out “Kenan and Kel”, and “Tyler their A-list abusers, such as Harvey Perry’s House of Payne.” She Weinstein, Kevin Spacey and oth- recently directed and starred in the ers. lifetime movie “Wrapped Up in Crews was initially met with Christmas.” Get your Free speculation, and he was even Crews Although Fields has spent decades encouraged by Def Jam co-founder cal distress following the incident in the industry, she has no inten- Russell Simmons to forgive Venit and is concerned Venit’s standing in tions of slowing down anytime Press on the go! and help him be reinstated at the Hollywood could impact his acting soon. She told the news outlet that William Morris Endeavor (WME) career, according to court docu- she’s “passionate about the gifts agency after his suspension. He has ments obtained by TMZ. and talents that have been given to since returned to work. Documents also indicate that Crews her” and wants to continue to leave Seach for us on The athlete-turned-actor con- told Big Daddy actor Adam Sandler her mark on the entertainment tends he’s experienced psychologi- about the incident that night. industry. Facebook at The Jacksonville Free Press or visit us on the web at www.jacksonvilleFreePress.com

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StopStop byby ourour officesoffices locatedlocated atat 11221122 WestWest EdgewoodEdgewood AvenueAvenue Jacksonville,Jacksonville, FloridaFlorida 3220832208 Page 10 - Ms. Perry’s Free Press December 7 - 13, 2017 Doll Creator Wants Girls to American Airlines Employees Must Take Anti-Racism Embrace their Natural Hair Representation is everything. Cognizant of the Training Since NAACP Issued Travel Advisory lack of dolls with melanated skin tones and natu- American Airlines is making and through an online module, ral hair, an entrepreneur launched a toy compa- employees undergo anti-racism according to a company spokes- ny to encourage young Black girls and other girls training after the NAACP issued a woman. Parker said that airline of color to have pride in their features. “travel advisory” for the carrier in executives met with NAACP lead- Yelitsa Jean-Charles founded Healthy Roots October. Starting in 2018, everyone ers last week. Dolls in 2015. The lack of diversity that she saw at the company will need to com- In October, the NAACP issued a among dolls as a child encouraged her to start the plete annual implicit bias training, warning to black fliers, urging them company. The road to creating the line of dolls was the company announced Thursday. to be careful when flying American far from easy. It forced her as an adult to revisit “We are proud of the diversity Airlines. The organization said it childhood experiences related to racism, including and inclusion initiatives already in had noticed “a pattern of disturbing one in which she cried after receiving a Black place at American, but we know we incidents reported by African- Barbie for Christmas because society conditioned can do even better. So we viewed American passengers, specific to her to believe that Black didn’t equate to beauty. the feedback as an opportunity,” American Airlines,” citing four Since launching, she has received several grants CEO Doug Parker said in a letter to examples of black fliers who were for her business. The first doll in the collection staff. forced to give up their seats or were comes with a book that delves into natural hair The training program’s curricu- removed from flights. care, and her company also sells #LoveMyRoots lum is still being developed, and The NAACP, in a statement shirts for adults and children. will be conducted both in-person released Friday, said the organiza-

tion train- supports American’s plan, but will ing, American is bringing in an Gainesville Native Charged With Torturing keep its travel advisory in place for independent firm to review its hir- now. “We think we’re on the right ing practices, and has pledged to road, but the NAACP will continue overhaul its system for managing and Killing Children in Florida Home School to meet with Doug Parker and other discrimination complaints. Reason for the Season” and “Jesus spokesman Art Forgey said Young property in 1983. In 1985 they senior American Airlines employ- “American Airlines can set a new is the Answer,” but Young is actual- operated the House of Prayer for transferred it to the House of Prayer ees to ensure that the company standard in corporate diversity and ly a convicted felon. She already All People near Micanopy, FL from for All People Selah, Inc., a non- walks the walk as well as it talks the inclusion, and we are humbled by served prison time after being con- about 1985 to 1995. profit. talk,” NAACP President Derrick the opportunity before us to do so,” victed in 2001 of child abuse when “We think there are many, many Officials would not say when Johnson said. Parker said. she reportedly burned a 12-year old more. We can document other states they began taking in children and In addition to the implicit bias girl in a bath tub with chemicals. and other missing children that we how the children came to be in their But the recent arrest is for what believe are tied into this,” Forgey care. police are calling a “committed pre- said. “They ran a religious institu- Other family members were meditated first degree murder of a tion — exorcising demons and involved in the House of Prayer child” that happened many years other things like that. We have doc- operation, including Young’s ago. umentation involving her clear back deceased husband, Jonah Young. Her neighbors were in total the ’60s. We did extensive forensic Investigators may take a fresh shock, and had no clue of her dark examination on the property this look at other incidents involving past. summer. We are still analyzing the Young, but Lloyd wouldn’t say if One of them told reporters, “I evidence that we gathered.” her husband’s death is among them. know she’s involved with the Young is accused of causing the “I can’t speak for that but some of church as you can see with the death of Emon Harper, who was the other things we are reviewing Anna E. Young Jesus rock and the Jesus sign, and I around 2 or 3 years old at the time. — some of the things she was Seventy-six-year old Anna know they have like church bazaars Forgey said the investigation of involved in — are reopened. These Elizabeth Young, a former cult on weekend.” Emon’s death began when new are things that were reported as an leader from Florida, has been final- Another said, “I got three chil- information was presented to the accident but were not,” Lloyd said. ly located and arrested at her home dren so if she did something like sheriff’s office. Cold case investi- “The cases were left as unresolved. in the Atlanta metro area. Police say that for children they should have gator Kevin Allen began exploring A lot of the investigators then felt that she once ran a religious board- gotten her on the spot and it should the new leads and uncovered more something was wrong, but they did- ing school in Florida, where she have been literally a nationwide evidence, ultimately resulting in the n’t have enough probable cause so allegedly tortured and even mur- manhunt for her.” indictment. they left it unresolved.” dered children. Police say there may have been Records from the Alachua Young was arrested without inci- Her home reportedly had multi- other victims. County Property Appraiser indicate dent and will be returned to ple signs that say “Jesus is the Alachua County Sheriff’s Anna and Robert Young bought the Alachua County to face charges.

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