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VOL. 26, NO. 17 FEBRUARY 13 - 19, 2020 50¢

Connecting the dots: Players in massive IHL Board of Trustees welfare embezzlement case got millions names Thomas Hudson as JSU’s acting president

from taxpayers, but helped few Jackson State University The Board of Trustees of State Institutions of Higher Learning named Thomas Hudson as Act- ing President of Jackson State University at its meeting held Monday in Jackson, effective immediately. Hudson currently serves as special assistant to the president and chief diversity of- fi cer at Jackson State. Davis Smith New New McGrew Dibiase As special assistant to the president and chief diversity of- fi cer, Hudson has served on the By Anna Wolfe Hudson expenditures show. states broad discretion to spend that barely acknowledged peo- executive cabinet and provided Mississippi Today “Our main goal is getting the money – about $130 million ple walking by asking for help,” guidance to senior leadership on As chief operating offi cer, A downtown Jackson re- them off TANF,” Will Lamkin, a year in Mississippi. said state Rep. Chris Bell, D- all topics related to the univer- Hudson implemented cost- source center funded by mil- operation coordinator for the In 2018, the state used just 5.4 Jackson. sity’s future. saving measures that resulted lions of state welfare dollars was center, said Wednesday morn- percent of the money on cash as- By the end of fi scal year 2018, “We are extremely pleased in a 10 percent decrease in the quiet Wednesday morning. Blue ing, referring to the Temporary sistance – historically known as Human Services had paid Mis- that Thomas Hudson has agreed university’s operational budget, bins labeled “fresh produce” in a Assistance for Needy Families welfare – for poor families. sissippi Community Education to serve as acting president,” coordinated academic and ad- mock farmers market sat empty. cash-assistance program. In recent years, Human Ser- Center roughly $30 million. In said Hal Parker, president of the ministrative restructuring efforts Monitors in the computer lab Hours later, law enforcement vices funneled large amounts the same time frame, the non- Board of Trustees of State Insti- resulting in an annual savings of were black and toys in the chil- agents would arrest the non- of its TANF funding to New’s profi t had helped 94 people com- tutions of Higher Learning. “As $4 million and led institutional dren’s playroom sat neatly on profi t’s owner, Nancy New, and organization to run a statewide plete a resume and 72 people fi ll both an alumnus and a current efforts that changes a projected their shelves. former Human Services director program called Families First out job applications in addition staff member, he has a deep love year-end defi cit to an approxi- Families First for Mississip- John Davis, in the largest public for Mississippi. The program to the educational classes it con- for and understanding of the mate $3 million cash balance. pi’s recently-opened State Street embezzlement scheme in state faced criticism over the last year ducted, according to outcome campus and all it means to the Appointed as the inaugural center, run by the nonprofi t Mis- history, according to the offi ce from advocates and lawmakers reports it sent the state agency. students, faculty, staff, alumni chief diversity and Equal Op- sissippi Community Education of the State Auditor. who questioned the large con- The reporting contains many and the state.” portunity offi cer at Jackson Center, promises to lift families New and Davis allegedly stole tracts and unclear objectives of errors, such as year-to-date fi g- Hudson served on the execu- State, Hudson received the Pres- out of poverty. Human Services millions from the federal TANF the operation. ures declining in certain months. tive cabinet and provided guid- idential Creative Award Grant has granted the nonprofi t ap- program intended to provide ba- “They were fudging the num- “There weren’t proper controls ance to senior leadership on all for efforts to design a program proximately $53 million since sic assistance and work supports bers by saying they were help- and monitoring in place to topics related to the university’s to bring awareness of interper- the beginning of fi scal year 2018 to the nation’s poorest residents. ing so many people and you had future course and trajectory. sonal violence prevention to Embezzlement reportedly to do just that, state The federal government gives an offi ce that was barely open, With the Division of Human the student body and designed Continued on page 10 Resources and Offi ce of Gen- and implemented the fi rst uni- eral Counsel under his purview, versity-wide training designed Hudson oversaw institutional to eliminate implicit bias for EEO and Title IX implementa- search committees. tion and collaborated with other In addition, he developed Just like he arrived; he leaves executive administrators on strategies for increasing the matters of curriculum, guide- number of female faculty mem- lines and practices. bers in STEM disciplines, re- He also established collab- sulting in a 30 percent increase under a cloud of suspicion orative partnerships with the in hiring of women in these University Veterans Center and disciplines over a three-year pe- Offi ce of Disability Services to riod. address the underrepresenta- Hudson holds a bachelor’s Bynum out at Jackson State University after arrest tion of employees from these degree in political science from groups. He also served as the Jackson State University and a By Othor Cain the board chose not to honor the proval rate (of your presidency).” president’s liaison for the Divi- law degree from the University Editor recommendation made by the To which Bynum responded: sion of Athletics. of Mississippi. Amid widespread criticism, representatives of the administra- “Let’s cut to the chase. I may Hudson conducted university- Before joining the staff at William Bynum Jr., 57, was tion, faculty, staff, students, foun- not be your choice and you have wide labor utilization analysis to Jackson State, Hudson founded named the 11th president of dation, community and alumni. every right to an opinion of who determine areas of improvement his own law practice and served Jackson State University in 2017 However, our love and dedica- you want. But the board made as it relates to the university af- as an EEO specialist for the De- by the Board of Trustees of the tion for Jackson State University the choice and I’ve made the de- fi rmative action plan and reor- partment of Homeland Security/ Institutions of Higher Learning. is not diminished. Remember that cision to accept. Watch me. You ganized the Staff Development FEMA in Clinton. This appointment was met leaders will come and go, but we don’t have to depend on the opin- Center and assisted in develop- Hudson serves as co-chair- with harsh criticism and much will forever be the alumni of Mis- ion of others,” Bynum said. ing courses in employee rela- person on the JSU Strategic disappointment. Among those sissippi’s urban university. We Jauan Knight, a senior (then) at tions, development and compli- Planning Committee and vice expressing grave concerns at the Bynum will always be committed to our JSU, challenged Bynum: “If the ance. chairperson of the university time of the preferred candidate alma mater and will do all that IHL asks you to do something “As a Jackson State alum- system’s Chief Diversity Offi - announcement was the former Advisory Committee (who was we can to ensure that our dear counterproductive to the univer- nus and senior-level cabinet cers’ Council. He is a member of president of the national alumni dismissed May 8) and the board’s old college home emerges from sity, such as merge the state HB- member, Thomas Hudson is the Margaret Walker Alexander association for JSU, Yolanda application of the policy is a dis- this transition even stronger than CUs (Historically Black Colleges committed to the success of Center Board of Directors and Owens. She wrote at the time, honor to the spirit of the process before – standing as a leader in and Universities), how would the university and extremely the JSU Athletics Hall of Fame “With the announcement of the and ultimately the entire Jackson higher education throughout the you respond?” knowledgeable about all fac- Foundation Board of Directors. preferred candidate for president State University community. In state and the nation. After all, We “I have no interest in that,” de- ets of the campus,” said Alfred He served as the Bias and Policy of Jackson State University, the my opinion, the board policy as Are Jackson State Univversity.” clared Bynum. “I will do things Rankins Jr., commissioner of Lead for the National Science Institutions of Higher Learning it relates to the search process is Others also expressed concerns in the best interest of the univer- Higher Education. Foundation Advance Grant at Board of Trustees elected to de- signifi cantly fl awed and should during a campus-wide listening sity.” A member of the Jackson Jackson State from 2013 to 2017 part from the established 20 step be thoroughly revised before the session. Knight continued his question- State staff since 2012, Hudson and served as chairperson of the process outlined on its website. next IEO search in the State of DeAndrae Powell addressed ing: “When you were selected, has also served as chief operat- Director of Disability Services The decision on the preferred Mississippi. Bynum: “I’ve spoken with stu- it was almost without hesitation ing offi cer/chief diversity of- Search Committee in 2016. candidate was made without in- As an alumni family, we are dents and alumni at the Valley Hudson and his wife, Phy- Bynum fi cer, chief diversity and EEO put from the Interview Search enormously disappointed that and I have received a low ap- landria, have two daughters. Continued on page 3 offi cer/Title IX coordinator.

With no clear front Driving Share this issue with a friend runner, Bloomberg While Hudson spends $3.5 Black Continued on page 3 Inside million with the by mailing it to: Black Press Page 10 Page 17 LOCAL

2 • THE MISSISSIPPI LINK FEBRUARY 13 - 19, 2020 www.mississippilink.com Hinds CC to name hoops court after longtime coach, mentor

Mississippi Link Newswire Central Community College. The the program’s fi rst season playing whom played professional basket- Hinds Community College on women tip off at 5:30 p.m. Men tip home games on the Utica Campus. ball. In 1975, he was named na- Feb. 17 will name the basketball off at 7:30 p.m. The program will The Mississippi Junior College tional Alumni of the Year in sports court inside J.D. Boyd Gymna- be at approximately 7 p.m. Athletics Association named him by Jackson State University, where sium on the Utica Campus after Nelson coached the men’s bas- Coach of the Year for the 1989- he earned his bachelor’s degree in former basketball coach Earl Joe ketball team at Hinds for 17 years, 1990 season. Health and Physical Education. Nelson. starting in 1977 when the cam- His coaching career spanned 29 He later earned a master’s de- A brief dedication ceremony pus was Utica Junior College. seasons in all, including his years gree in Administration of Athletic will be held between the Hinds His time as coach included state at Hinds County Agricultural High Recreation from the University of Bulldogs women’s and men’s championships in 1978-1979 and School. He produced six junior Southern Mississippi. He died in games that evening against East 1989-1990, the latter of which was college All-Americans, fi ve of June 2012. Nelson

Senators Sollie B. Norwood, Hillman T. Frazier and David Blount visited Wednesday, February 12, with District 4 Hinds County Election Commissioner Yvonne Horton at the Capitol. www.mississippilink.com FEBRUARY 13 - 19, 2020 THE MISSISSIPPI LINK • 3 60 years ago: students launched Sit-In Movement By Dr. Kelton Edmonds the campus of Shaw University. Ella Baker from SCLC. ful than their predecessor as The Mississippi Link Newswire SNCC would soon emerge SNCC would prove to be an they desegregated all remain- as one of the most formidable indispensible organization that ing businesses in downtown PART TWO organizations of the decade, el- not only championed directly Greensboro and the student Continued from last week evating students to the forefront confronting Jim Crow racism leader of the second wave of The Legacies And Larger of the Civil Rights Movement. on numerous levels through sit-ins, Jesse Jackson, would Signifi cance of The 1960 Sit-in After marveling at the mag- organized protests and massive parlay his leadership in the stu- Movement, Sparked In Greens- nitude and effectiveness of the voter registration drives, but dent protests onto the national boro student protesters during the SNCC also further popularized Civil Rights stage throughout Similar to the successful sit-ins, major Civil Rights orga- the concept of participatory the 20th century. 1955 Montgomery Bus Boy- nizations such as the NAACP, democracy and was the fi rst Similar to Greensboro, other cott, the students’ triumphant SCLC and CORE pressured the major Civil Rights organiza- cities throughout the South coordinated protests in 1960 students to collapse their mete- tion to evolve toward seriously would experience a second and further demonstrated how mass oric movement into the youth embracing principles of black even third wave of similar pro- economic boycotts could lead worth’s lunch counters in the Rights Movement. Black stu- wing of one of their institutions power ideology under Stokely tests to successfully desegre- to desegregationist social victo- country. dents understood their unique, under their supervision. Carmichael’s (Kwame Ture) gate other remaining businesses ries, particularly when targeting The students of the Civil collective power and desired to The students however, decid- leadership in 1966. throughout the decade. businesses that relied heavily Rights era suddenly possessed harness their efforts under a na- ed to remain autonomous and Another legacy of the 1960 Ultimately, all mass student on black patronage. a new weapon, the mass sit-in, tional apparatus. Consequently, formulate their own student-led sit-in movement was that it of- protests of the 1960s and there- The Greensboro Four only which would continue to be used another major legacy of the stu- organization, while still adher- fered the inspiration and blue- after owe their viability to the set out to challenge and change in Greensboro and around the dent movement that emerged in ing to non-violent principles. print for the second and more student-led Greensboro pro- the discriminatory practices of country in various forms. The Greensboro was it also directly The students’ decision to re- colossal wave of mass student tests of 1960, including student the local Woolworth’s, yet their sit-ins combined with the free- led to the birth of the Student main student-led received note- protest in Greensboro in 1963. black power activists and anti- movement expanded exponen- dom rides led to black students Non-Violent Coordinating worthy support from several The 1963 student demonstra- war activists of the late 60s and tially to ultimately bring about establishing their unique value Committee (SNCC) in April of key adult Civil Rights leaders tions in Greensboro would be 70s. the desegregation of all Wool- and niche to the larger Civil 1960 in nearby Raleigh, NC on in Greensboro in addition to even more locally success- See Part 3 next week.

Bynum course and trajectory. With the Division of Human Hudson holds a bachelor’s degree in political Resources and Offi ce of General Counsel under his science from Jackson State University and a law Continued from page 1 purview, Hudson oversaw institutional EEO and Ti- degree from the University of Mississippi. Before that you accepted the position with only tle IX implementation and collaborated with other joining the staff at Jackson State, Hudson founded being at Mississippi Valley for four years. executive administrators on matters of curriculum, his own law practice and served as an EEO spe- How can we trust that you will stick with guidelines and practices. cialist for the Department of Homeland Security/ JSU?” A member of the Jackson State staff since 2012, FEMA in Clinton. “I can assure you the Valley family is Dear Jackson State University Campus Commu- Hudson has also served as Chief Operating Offi cer/ Hudson serves as Co-Chairperson on the JSU okay with my being here,” Bynum respond- nity: Chief Diversity Offi cer, Chief Diversity and EEO Strategic Planning Committee and Vice Chairper- ed before being interrupted by a loud crowd Good afternoon. As you may know, President By- Offi cer/Title IX Coordinator. As Chief Operating son of the university system’s Chief Diversity Of- of “Oh no’s” from the audience. num tendered his resignation to the Board of Trust- Offi cer, Hudson implemented cost-saving measures fi cers’ Council. He is a member of the Margaret Fast forward nearly three years later, By- ees this morning, effective immediately. I under- that resulted in a 10 percent decrease in the univer- Walker Alexander Center Board of Directors and num resigned from his presidency after be- stand that a sudden resignation brings uncertainty to sity’s operational budget, coordinated academic and the JSU Athletics Hall of Fame Foundation Board ing arrested in a prostitution sting at a Clin- the campus community, so I wanted to let you know administrative restructuring efforts, resulting in an of Directors. ton hotel this week. Bynum was charged that the Board has named an Acting President. annual savings of $4 million, and led institutional Jackson State University is a strong institution with procuring services of a prostitute, false I am pleased to announce that the Board has ap- efforts that changes a projected year-end defi cit to with a rich history and an important mission as the statement of identity and simple possession pointed Thomas Hudson as Acting President. He an approximate $3 million cash balance. state’s only urban university. Mr. Hudson under- of marijuana. currently serves as Special Assistant to the Presi- Appointed as the inaugural Chief Diversity and stands its history, traditions, mission and all facets Bynum allegedly gave offi cers a fake dent and Chief Diversity Offi cer. A staff member Equal Opportunity Offi cer at Jackson State, Hud- of the campus. As co-chair of the university’s Stra- name when he and 16 other people were since 2012 and a Jackson State alum, he is well son received the Presidential Creative Award Grant tegic Planning Committee, he has also been focused busted in the sting operation. known to all of you and is well-qualifi ed for this for efforts to design a program to bring awareness on the university’s future and is well-prepared to Bynum’s resignation was effective im- role. I am certain his leadership will keep Jackson of interpersonal violence prevention to the student step into this role without a learning curve. mediately Monday after his arrest early State moving forward without any loss of momen- body and designed and implemented the fi rst uni- The Board of Trustees will discuss the future Sunday morning. tum. I am extremely pleased that he has accepted versity-wide training designed to eliminate implicit leadership of Jackson State at its regular Board It is with the same cloud of suspicion this important assignment. bias for search committees. In addition, he devel- Meeting next week. that he was hired; he leaves with. Bynum’s As Special Assistant to the President and Chief oped strategies for increasing the number of female Dr. Alfred Rankins Sr. legacy at JSU will forever be tarnished. The Diversity Offi cer, Hudson served on the executive faculty members in STEM disciplines, resulting in Commissioner of Higher Education university will survive. cabinet and provided guidance to senior leader- a 30 percent increase in hiring of women in these ship on all topics related to the university’s future disciplines over a three-year period.

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Voting was and still is our super power. It keeps people and neighborhoods from being ignored. We celebrate the people who not only got knocked down, but who kept getting up. Join AARP as we continue the journey to protect and empower all races and ages in all communities. CELEBRATING BLACK HISTORY

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4 • THE MISSISSIPPI LINK FEBRUARY 13 - 19, 2020 www.mississippilink.com Visit Jackson Hometown Heroes Dinner Scholarship honors the memory Holmes County educator

Mississippi Link Newswire The 10th Anniversary of the Community Students Learning Center (CSLC) Annual Scholar- ship Banquet recently announced its 2020 winners under a new name – The CSLC Merdis A. Anderson Scholarship Awards Banquet, Jan. 25, in the Lexington Multipurpose Complex, Lexington, Miss. The scholarship winners were Charity Smith, 1st Place; Christian Davis, 2nd Place; and De’Arica Price, 3rd Place, all students of JSU Retiree’s Luncheon Holmes County Central High School. Recipients competed among Anderson others in the CSLC Annual Essay Writing Contest which also now 2011. carries Anderson’s name. Her pas- Approximately, 10 years ago, tor Rev. Walter Eskeridge Jr. en- in her retirement, she gracefully couraged the students and a packed volunteered to serve and assist audience with an outstanding in- the Community Students Learning spirational message on the impor- Center (CSLC) in its various edu- tance of education. cational programs and services as A 1970 MVSU Social Science a tutor and instructor. Establishing graduate, Anderson devoted 38.5 the scholarship essay writing con- years to teaching in Holmes and test was one of many educational Amite counties, “not for the money activities she spearheaded. but for the rewards that teaching “We are extremely grateful for brings.” the assistance Mrs. Anderson gave She was an Amite County na- our organization in helping chil- tive who made Holmes County her dren over the years,” said CSLC home with her husband, the late Board President Leslie Greer. “We Samuel Anderson and their two want all of the students to know sons: Shawn and Kevin. Her edu- that they all are winners because cation legacy was recognized in they had the courage to partici- the U.S. Congressional Records by pate.” Congressman Bennie Thompson in See photos page16. www.mississippilink.com FEBRUARY 13 - 19, 2020 THE MISSISSIPPI LINK • 5 New Bethel Mens Day New Bethel M.B. Church• Jackson, MS • February 9, 2020 PHOTOS BY JAY JOHNSON 6 • THE MISSISSIPPI LINK FEBRUARY 13 - 19, 2020 www.mississippilink.com

Mississippi Link Newswire The JPS Special Programs Application is a com- Special Programs Application mon online application and may be used for these JPS special programs: Arts Access (Grades K-5) Academic and Performing Arts Complex (APAC) Elementary Academics (Grades 4-5) Elementary Arts (Grades 4-5) Secondary Academics (Grades 6-12) Secondary Arts (Grades 6-12) International Baccalaureate (IB) Primary Years Programme (Grades K-5) Middle Years Programme (Grades 6-10) Diploma Programme (Grades 11-12) JPS Registration Requirements All students accepted into a JPS special program will be required to complete the Jackson Public School District Registration Requirements in order to be offi cially enrolled. All requirements for enroll- ment can be found on the Registration Requirements Page. Please note there are annual transfer and en- rollment requirements for all transfer students in- cluding both in-district and out-of-district transfers. Students enrolling from a non-accredited private school or from a home school may be required to complete a district assessment. Apply Now The application window for the JPS special pro- grams listed under Special Programs Application re-opens Wednesday, January 15, 2020. All applica- tions must now be completed online and submitted by Saturday, February 15. In order for an application to be submitted successfully, the “Submit” button must be clicked before 11:59 p.m. February 15, 2020.

Michelle Obama Scholar accepted to Disney Dreamers Academy

Mississippi Link Newswire of Tootie’s Trendy Treats, Treat’ at a time.” make their dreams come true. pany, entertainer Steve Har- Mauricsa Woods, a sopho- Woods dreams of becoming Her application was accept- Dreamers distinguish vey and ESSENCE magazine more at the Michelle Obama one of the world’s best pastry ed from thousands submit- themselves by demonstrating host the event at Walt Disney Early College High School, chefs. ted by high school students the qualities of intellectual World Resort. The academy’s will be spending four days “I am determined to im- between the ages of 13 and curiosity, compassion, cour- dreamers will interact with this summer at the Disney prove my skills and continue 19. Only 100 will attend the age, generosity and optimism. Disney cast members, celeb- Dreamers Academy. At 16 to pursue my educational en- Disney Dreamers Academy The academy was founded rities, industry experts and years old, she is already a deavors,” Woods wrote in her each session. At the end of the in 2008 to give students with community leaders. They small business owner and applicant bio. “My deepest four-day intensive, they will a dream the tools it takes to will also get a chance to enjoy considers herself a young desire is to make the world be equipped with the motiva- realize their potential. the fun of the resort’s theme entrepreneur. The founder a sweeter place, one ‘Trendy tion, guidance and skills to The Walt Disney Com- parks. Woods

JPS partnerships selected JPS seeking parent and for 2020 Governor’s and community feedback Partnership Excellence Awards assessing district needs

Mississippi Link Newswire 2020 Governor’s Award of Dis- 2020 Partnership Excellence Mississippi Link Newswire within schools. Jackson Public Schools is cel- tinction Award JPS is seeking the input of school par- The Comprehensive Needs Assessment ebrating news that fi ve school- Spann Elementary School and Chastain Middle School and Ea- ents and community members on the is required as part of the Consolidated community partnerships have Multiple Community Partners ton Aerospace Comprehensive Needs Assessment Sur- Federal Program Application (CFPA) pro- been selected for 2020 Mississippi 2020 Governor’s Award A Governor’s Award luncheon vey. The purpose of this survey is to ex- cess and focuses on gathering data in fi ve Association of Partners in Educa- Lanier High School and Lanier will be held March 5 as a part of the amine multiple sources of data to identify dimensions: student achievement, curric- tion Awards. The Mississippi As- High School National Alumni As- 2020 Vision for Education Partner- the prioritized needs of the district as well ulum and instruction, professional devel- sociation of Partners in Education sociation ship Conference hosted by MAPE as of individual schools. The data will as- opment, family and community involve- (MAPE) presents these awards to Jackson Public Schools, Aris- and Program of Research and Eval- sist schools in monitoring and assessing ment and school context and organization. recognize outstanding partnerships e2Read, and Multiple Community uation for Public Schools. The con- the impact of programs and instruction Thank you for your hard work and dedi- between schools and their commu- Partners ference will be held March 4-6 at on student achievement. In addition, the cation. We value your feedback. nities. Obama Magnet School and Mul- Lake Terrace Convention Center in analysis of the data can help guide the re- The deadline to complete this survey is The JPS honorees are as follows: tiple Community Partners Hattiesburg, Mississippi. fi nement of current instructional practices February 26.

2659 Livingston Road • Jackson MS, 39213 The Mississippi Link [USPS 017224] is published weekly by TM The Mississippi Link, Inc. Offi ces located at 2659 Livings- Subscribe TODAY ton Road, Jackson, MS 39213. Mailing address is P.O. Box 601-896-0084 • www.mississippilink.com T e Mississippi Link 11307, Jackson, MS 39283-1307 or e-mail us at: editor@ mississippilink.com; Please visit our website at: www.mis- Volume 26 • Number 17 sissippilink.com. Phone: (601) 896-0084, Fax 896-0091, out February 13 - 19, 2020 of state 1-800-748-9747. Periodical Postage Rate Paid at Jackson, MS. The Mississippi Link © copyright 2019. All rights reserved. Deadline: The deadline for submitting items to be considered Name for publication is Tuesday at 10 a.m. Publisher...... Jackie Hampton Address Editor...... Othor Cain Subscriptions are $32 per year; $64 for two years or $96 for three years. City, State, Zip Copy Editor...... Minnie Garrett Graphics...... Marcus Johnson Postmaster: Phone Photographers...... Kevin Robinson & Jay Johnson Send all address changes to The Mississippi Link, Contributing Writers...... Janice K. Neal-Vincent P.O. Box 11307, Jackson, MS 39283-1307. e-Mail Ayesha K. Mustafaa Advertising: For all advertising information, CHECK please call (601) 896-0084. ONE 1 year 2 year 3 year The Mississippi Link accepts no responsibility for unsolicited Member: materials and in general does not return them to sender. $32 $64 $96 Manuscripts and photographs submitted for publication are 1 year 2 year 3 year welcome by The Mississippi Link, but no responsibility can subscription subscription subscription be taken for sources considered to be authoritative, because the publication cannot guarantee their accuracy. Reproduc- tion or use, without permission, of editorial or graphic content, Thank you for your order. Order a subscription for a friend! is prohibited. EDUCATION

www.mississippilink.com FEBRUARY 13 - 19, 2020 THE MISSISSIPPI LINK • 7 East Central Middle School Itunuoluwa Williams represents Alcorn as a in Moss Point wins 2020 contestant on the Black Mississippi Regional Middle College Quiz Show The Mississippi Link Newswire A junior political science ma- School Science Bowl jor from Alcorn State University tested her knowledge against stu- The Mississippi Link Newswire Bowl encourages our state’s younger the 2020 Mississippi Regional Middle dents from across the country in Students from East Central Middle generations to excel in STEM-related School Science Bowl were: a televised game show catered to School in Moss Point won the recent curriculums so they are armed with the Amory Middle School, Amory HBCU students. 2020 Mississippi Regional Science Bowl knowledge they will need for in-demand Cleveland Central Middle School, Itunuoluwa Williams of Lagos, and advanced to the National Science careers,” said Sumesh Arora, director of Cleveland Nigeria, was one of 24 contes- Bowl, which will be held April 30 – May MDA’s Energy Division. “MDA con- Columbus Middle School, Columbus tants to participate in the Black 4 in Washington, D.C. gratulates East Central Middle School Enterprise Middle School, Enterprise College Quiz game show Jan. The Science Bowl was sponsored by on its exciting win and is proud of all the Germantown Middle School, Madison 10. The show airs nationally ev- the Mississippi Development Authority’s schools and their teams for participating Oxford Middle School, Oxford ery Saturday at 6 a.m. CST on Williams Energy and Natural Resources Division in this year’s event.” Senatobia Middle School, Senatobia BounceTV and Sundays at 7 a.m. and the Mississippi School for Mathe- Students from the East Central Middle Starkville Academy, Starkville CST on ABC WAPT-16 in the staff was concerned with our self- matics and Science. Teams from 11 mid- School team will compete against other Tupelo Middle School, Tupelo Jackson, Mississippi market, and development and career goals. It dle schools around the state participated. regional middle school winners from For more information regarding the 5 a.m. Saturdays on FOX WLOV- was an enlightening experience The Science Bowl is a fast-paced ver- around the country at the national com- Mississippi Regional Middle School 27 in the Columbus-Tupelo mar- meeting young, goal-oriented bal forum in which students solve tech- petition. Science Bowl, contact event coordina- ket. Viewers can also watch old students who looked like me and nical problems and answer questions Ocean Springs Middle School was the tor Lisa Campbell at 601.359.6600 or episodes on the show’s YouTube have similar experiences on their related to all areas of science and math. runner-up at this year’s event. [email protected]. channel. college journey.” “The Mississippi Regional Science Additional schools participating in Sponsored by StateFarm and While preparing for the compe- hosted by national radio personal- tition, Williams took the time to ity, actor and comedian Nephew dive deeper into her history and Tommy, the Black College Quiz the challenges black people had game show series is to encourage to endure. The information she an appreciation of African-Amer- learned empowers her to avoid Archie Taylor named Diverse: ican heritage by all people in the similar pitfalls to gain success in entertaining quiz show format. the future. Now in its seventh season, “I realized the importance of Issues in Higher Education 2020 Black College Quiz shows the na- knowing my history and how tion that African Americans have my generation can learn from made signifi cant contributions to the mistakes of the past to have the world. a better future. Studying for the Emerging Scholar Participants on the show earn program taught me so much about scholarship money to help offset African and African-American The Mississippi Link Newswire forces behind his success. the costs associated with college. progress in the world. I feel like One of Alcorn State University’s biol- “Alcorn has played an important role Because of her experience at the I’ve been passed the baton to take ogy assistant professors is being recog- in my growth. The students have truly re- university and the preparation she my generation to greater heights.” nized for his commitment to leading and minded me of why I chose to go into sci- receives daily, Williams felt privi- Spending time with hardwork- equipping science students for a promis- ence. The experience working and learn- leged to participate on behalf of ing and goal-oriented college ing future. ing with them challenges me to climb Alcorn. She said that meeting col- students added more drive to Wil- Archie Taylor, who earned a bach- higher and reach further to bring those lege students from other schools liams’ work ethic. elor’s degree in biology/pre-medicine along with me. At Alcorn, I can meet the was one of the highlights of the “Being amongst young African- from Alcorn in 2008, is one of 15 dis- needs of the students where they are. I event. American people who are deter- tinguished educators from across the am always up for the challenge to be the “I was honored to represent mined to succeed was encourag- country to be named as a Diverse: Issues best advocate for students. I could not Alcorn State University,” said ing. It motivated me to continue in Higher Education 2020 Emerging imagine doing science at no place other Williams. “The atmosphere was the pursuit of my dream career, Scholar. The scholars are selected based than Alcorn.” lively. Everyone from the coaches which is becoming an attorney.” on several factors, including teaching, Taylor hopes to establish laboratories from other schools to the studio community service, scholarly awards, across the state of Mississippi that caters honors and academic accomplishments. to bringing awareness to citizens about Because of the push for more diver- various diseases and their treatments. sity in Science, Technology, Engineer- “My short-term goal is to establish MVSU names Rueber ing, and Mathematics (STEM) careers, a research center at Alcorn that takes Taylor appreciates his acknowledgment an interdisciplinary approach to under- as an emerging scholar because it allows standing diseases and preventive mea- Humanities Teacher of the Year him to be an example to young minori- Taylor sures. I started a laboratory with my ties aspiring to pursue STEM careers. colleague, Dr. Debarshi Roy, where we The Mississippi Link Newswire “It is truly an honor and blessing,” is possible if they believe. To be recog- plan to address health disparity related The Division of Academic Af- said Taylor. “Most importantly, this hon- nized as an emerging scholar highlights biomedical research in cancer genomics. fairs at Mississippi Valley State or allows me to expose underrepresented how important diversity is in science. I In this capacity, I hope to establish re- University is pleased to announce populations to other exciting STEM-re- hope to continue to use this platform to search centers throughout Mississippi to Dr. Micah A. Rueber as its 2019 lated areas. I hope to show the students serve as a beacon of light for other stu- pay homage to Henrietta Lacks, whom Humanities Teacher of the Year re- that their dreams and aspirations are val- dents.” we owe most of our advances in medi- cipient. id. In many of the STEM-related fi elds, Teaching at Alcorn has helped Taylor cine, drugs, diseases and biomedical re- Each year, the Mississippi Hu- minorities are highly underrepresented. rise to a level worthy of such an award. search.” manities Council recognizes Oc- Despite this fact, I hope to show students He credits his alma mater for giving him To read more about Taylor and see his tober’s designation of Arts and that becoming a doctor, scientist, engi- the chance to teach and his daily inter- feature, visit Diverse: Issues in Higher Humanities Month by bestowing neer, chemist, biologist, pharmacist, etc. actions with his students as the driving Education website. Humanities Teacher Awards to out- standing faculty in traditional hu- manities fi elds at colleges and uni- versities across the state. Jatavian Smith gains valuable Rueber, who serves as an associ- ate professor of history in MVSU’s Rueber Department of Social Science, will experience, presents poster at Science receive his award from the Missis- on the history of the United States sippi Humanities Council at an an- from 1887 1997 to 1945. In addition nual ceremony in Jackson March to serving as a professor, Rueber is and Engineering Conference 27. also the coordinator of the General Approximately 30 awards will Studies and University Program. The Mississippi Link Newswire be given to individuals throughout Rueber is currently working on Jatavian Smith, a senior environmental Mississippi whose work is recog- a manuscript based on the subject science major at Alcorn, recently partici- nized for bringing insights of the of his presentation. The manu- pated in the inaugural Minority Science humanities to public audiences. script, which has already attracted and Engineering Improvement Program’s “It is an honor to be chosen for the interested interests of several (MSEIP) Capacity Competitiveness En- this award, and I’m excited to have academic presses, is expected to be hancement Model (CCEM) Conference, the opportunity to present my re- completed in 2021. held in Washington, D.C. search,” said Rueber. Rueber’s other research includes MSEIP CCEM focuses on leveraging A program will be held in Rue- the history of hunting, especially federal investments through interagency ber’s honor at 11 a.m. Tuesday, in the American South and govern- and private-sector collaborations that al- Feb. 18, in the Carver Randle Au- ment efforts in the fi rst half of the low students and faculty members to en- ditorium, located on MVSU’s main 20th century to prevent the spread gage in cutting-edge science, technology, campus in the W. A. Butts Social of syphilis. engineering, and mathematics (STEM) Sciences Building. Rueber holds a Bachelor of Arts research and other experiences at lead- During the event, Rueber will degree in music from Carleton Col- ing governmental and non-governmental give a special presentation entitled, lege, a Bachelor of Science degree STEM sites nationwide. Sponsored by the “Time Bomb in a River: Ross Bar- in mathematics from the University U.S. Department of Education, this pro- tion.” their lives is to expose them to the various nett, JFK and Two-Million Pounds of Oregon, a Master of Arts degree gram mainly assists minority institutions During his stay, he made sure to take jobs in STEM.” of Missing Chlorine.” in the history of science and tech- in achieving long-term improvement in advantage of the various learning and net- McComb hopes that students set aca- The program will also include nology from Iowa State University, science and engineering education pro- working opportunities available to him. demic goals that are distinct, achievable special remarks from Molly Mc- and a Ph.D. in history from Missis- grams. According to Jacqueline McComb, and will increase their overall well-being. Millian from the Mississippi Hu- sippi State University. During the conference, Smith gave a assistant professor of environmental sci- For more information, visit www. manities Council. To learn more about the Mis- poster presentation on “Understanding ence, “The best way to get students in- ed.gov. You may also contact McComb at Rueber joined the MVSU fac- sissippi Humanities Council, visit Topography as a Factor in Yield Varia- volved in science and incorporate it in 601.877.3368 or [email protected]. ulty in 2012. His primary focus is www.mshumanities.org. 8 • THE MISSISSIPPI LINK FEBRUARY 13 - 19, 2020 www.mississippilink.com JSU alum Latasha 2020 Presidential Houston shares life Bus Tour will journey in new book kick-off in North By Deja Davis and unexpected plans that she thefash has overcome. “The most exciting thing “My book is a book of faith. Mississippi about coming to Jackson State It is about my faith journey and to do this forum is having this it is about me dealing with life chance to come back to my ups and downs, daily disap- Jackson State University university to be an example of pointments and life altering The traditional President Bus ‘you can do it too’. It allows the events,” Houston said. “Each Tour will begin this week at West opportunity for students and chapter of my book has a de- Point High School for the 2020 organizations to come together votional to go with it and each recruiting season. The purpose and exhibit the THEEILOVE devotional is broken down to a of the Bus Tour is to provide mantra,” said Latasha Houston. different rule.” information about admissions, Writer, businesswoman, in- Even though her life is being fnancial aid, scholarships and fuential speaker and author talked about, she wants men other programs and activities that of “The Seven Year Promise,” and women to feel strength- Jackson State has to offer. Houston is a native of Jackson, ened and encouraged while “This initiative is vital be- Miss., where she attended Jack- reading about her overcoming cause it puts JSU in front of son State University, studying adversities. prospective students across the public relations and minoring Houston shared some advice high school spectrum, freshmen in English. to assist students at Jackson through seniors,” says Cheryl Pollard. PHOTO BY CHARLES SMITH/JSU Post-graduation Houston State to secure a job while in Pollard, associate vice president moved to Washington, D.C. to make me some money at the Houston continued, “That school and after graduating. for enrollment management. Wednesday, March 4, 2020, take on a job working for the time,” she said. student’s exact words to me “Make sure you write it all ”The ability to engage students Holly Springs High School in Federal Bureau Investigation Like most college students, were: ‘you know depending on down, no matter how big or early in their high school career Holly Springs, MS from 10 a.m. (FBI) for seven years. choosing a major can defnitely what you want to do, you don’t how small you think it is, write is critical to building a pipeline to 12 noon. Writing has always been her become a headache and what need a business degree to own down your thoughts.” of potential students which in Wednesday, March 25, 2020, frst love since she was a child, one may originally think is their a business.’ That is what gave “Take advantage of any type turn ultimately impacts our stu- Shannon High School in Shan- but it was not until she came calling may suddenly change. me the courage to change my of writing classes that you can dent enrollment.” non, MS from 10 a.m. to 12 p.m. to college that made her really Houston shared one of her major.” as well as speaking classes be- The dates and locations for the “Campus partners from across have to decide what was more experiences that played a huge Seven years ago, she re- cause they’re both almost syn- upcoming Presidential Bus Tour the enterprise will be attending important. factor to help her along the way ceived a prophecy from God onymous.” are: this program to engage students, “When I frst came to Jack- to where she currently is now. and for seven years she had “Invest in professional pho- Wednesday, February 5, 2020, faculty and staff,” says Pollard. son State, I was a biology major “I hated biology, so one day been waiting on that prophecy tos, head shots and personality West Point High School in West The initiative will also high- because I thought I wanted to I went to Honors College to to be fulflled. This would be shots.” Point, MS from 10 a.m. to 12 light JSU’s five academic col- be a doctor. I have always loved change my major to business the fuel behind the creation of “Network because the person noon. leges and other campus depart- writing since, but I thought that administration and another her frst book entitled, “The that you might meet today may Wednesday, February 26, ments. you could not make that much student beside me asked why I Seven Year Promise.” be the person that you need to- 2020, Horn Lake High School in For more information regard- money as a writer, so I wanted am changing my major to busi- The book is about Houston’s morrow.” Horn Lake, MS from 9:30 a.m. ing the tour, contact 601 979- to go with what was going to ness,” she said. life, trials, vulnerable moments to 11 a.m. 2913. JSU networks during Day at the Capitol event By Jordon Canada thefash Jackson State University stu- dents, faculty, staff and alumni gathered at Mississippi’s State Capitol in downtown Jackson on Jan. 29 to network with state legislatures and advocate fund- ing for the 2020 fscal year. This annual event has proven fruitful for Jackson State over the past few years. JSU Day at the Capitol not only helps to build and maintain relation- ships between university lead- ers and Mississippi’s elected offcials, but it also gives JSU the opportunity to advocate for fnancial assistance from the state. During last year’s Day at the Capitol event, JSU requested a total of $6.5 million to revital- ize three academic programs: School of Public Health, the Institute of Government and the College of Education. Autumn Moore, a sophomore biology/pre-med major from Alton, Ill., explained some of the changes she has witnessed since last year. “In the John A. Peoples building, I noticed that the lecture rooms have been reno- Jackson State University students, staff, faculty and administrators during JSU Day at the Capitol event PHOTO BY JORDON CANADA vated and has all new seats. I also noticed that the labs in that said JSU President William B. booths were setup; two of those prepares educators to teach in cal professional in the feld of Powell continued, “Students building are also being reno- Bynum Jr. booths were organized to high- a very diverse feld of learners. social work. are giving the time to come to vated,” said Moore. Bynum continued, “We’re light the excellence of JSU’s The College of Health Sci- Keiterrious Powell, a senior the event, so students should be This year the university lead- also highlighting our School of College of Education and the ences booth highlighted the recreation administration ma- given an incentive for giving ers wanted to take a different Education. We want to let them College of Health Sciences. School of Social work and the jor from Clarksdale, Miss., their support to the school.” approach from the previous know that we are being good The College of Education School of Public Health. said attendance was necessary Adrienne Jackson, a senior year. stewards with the tax dollars, booth informed legislators and At the booth, students were so legislatures can know how marketing major from Gram- “What we’re trying to do is so we are highlighting our Col- city leaders that the department informed of what they would passionate and hard-working bling, La., said JSU Day at the take a day during the legislative lege of Health Sciences, School has one of the highest enroll- receive from being enrolled in students really are. Capitol was very benefcial. session in order to thank the of Social Work, School of Pub- ments at JSU. The booth also the school. The School of So- “It is important for students “The event was critical to legislature for all they’ve done lic Health and also our School highlighted the Department of cial Work not only prepares to show up at this event, so they have so that state leaders can for Jackson State. We want to of Education.” Elementary and Early Child- students to be a social work can be aware of the great deal realize the importance of fund- also let them know that we’re In the marble decorated foyer hood Education explaining the generalist, but also focuses on of networking that goes into ing JSU,” said Jackson. an outstanding investment,” of the capital building, several ways in which the program the students’ identity as an ethi- getting funding for the school.” STATE

www.mississippilink.com FEBRUARY 13 - 19, 2020 THE MISSISSIPPI LINK • 9

Mississippi Alliance of Nonprofi ts Governor Reeves announces and Philanthropy hosts public disaster assistance for DeSoto launch event featuring nation’s County and neighboring counties The Mississippi Link Newswire Residents and businesses in The fi ling deadline to return leading nonprofi t Recently, Governor Tate those counties can apply for applications for physical prop- Reeves announced disaster as- low-interest disaster loans erty damage is April 6, 2020. sistance for Mississippi busi- from SBA. The deadline to return eco- and philanthropic voices nesses and residents hit by “Here in the Hospitality nomic injury applications is severe weather and tornadoes State, we never have to think Nov. 6, 2020. January 10-11. twice about helping our neigh- Applicants may apply online More than 200 nonprofi t and philanthropic Working to help Mississip- bors when times are tough. We using the Electronic Loan Ap- pians recover from the devas- step up and hold out a helping plication (ELA) via SBA’s se- leaders gather to celebrate the organization’s tation, Reeves sent a letter to hand to our fellow Mississip- cure website at DisasterLoan. Administrator Jovita Carranza pian. The people and business- sba.gov. at the U.S. Small Business Ad- es in Northwest Mississippi Businesses and individuals success and hear from national leaders ministration (SBA) requesting deserve that helping hand. may also obtain information a disaster declaration to make Working with the U.S. Small and loan applications by call- The Mississippi Link Newswire proud to be at the forefront of an our colleagues from through- loans available to those im- Business Administration, I ing the SBA’s Customer Ser- The Mississippi Alliance of effort to enhance quality of life out the state as we seek new pacted. am committed to helping Mis- vice Center at 1-800-659-2955 Nonprofi ts and Philanthropy for Mississippi’s children, fami- and innovative ways to grow The declaration covers sissippi families, businesses (1-800-877-8339 for the deaf (The Alliance), the state’s non- lies and communities.” and strengthen all of our state’s DeSoto County and the fol- and communities get back on and hard-of-hearing), or by profi t and philanthropic mem- The luncheon, which was nonprofi ts and grantmakers,” lowing Northwest counties: their feet whenever disaster emailing disastercustomerser- bership association, hosted its sponsored in part by Volunteer said Aisha Nyandoro president Marshall, Tate and Tunica. strikes,” said Reeves. [email protected]. offi cial public launch during a Mississippi, the Phil Hardin of The Alliance board of direc- luncheon at the Two Mississippi Foundation and United Way of tors and executive director of Museums featuring some of the the Capital Area, brought to- Springboard to Opportunities. nation’s foremost experts in the gether more than 200 nonprofi t “This launch is the beginning nonprofi t and philanthropic sec- and philanthropic professionals of many exciting opportunities Statement from Lt. Governor Delbert tors, including Phil Buchanan, from around the state to learn, for our state, which is emerging executive director of the Cen- network and strengthen part- as a leader in the nonprofi t and Hosemann on denial of federal ter for Effective Philanthropy; nerships that will help improve philanthropic sectors.” Jeffrey Moore, chief strategy outcomes for children, families The Alliance also hosted a offi cer at Independent Sector; and communities in Missis- legislative breakfast to celebrate government’s motion to dismiss Donna Murray-Brown, board sippi. the success of the Endow Mis- president for the National Coun- More than six percent of the sissippi program and recognize cil of Nonprofi ts and president state’s workforce is employed the legislative champions for the in 16th Section takings lawsuit and CEO of the Michigan Non- in the nonprofi t or philanthropic initiative – State Senator Joey The Mississippi Link Newswire profi t Association; and Janine sector, which has a signifi cant Fillingame (R-District 41), State Hosemann is currently serv- Mississippi River. “Yesterday, the United States Lee, president and CEO of the impact on the state economy. Representative John Thomas ing as Lieutenant Governor, The lawsuit, which alleges Court of Federal Claims ruled Southeastern Council of Foun- For example, the Endow Missis- “Trey” Lamar (R-District 8), elected in November 2019. the federal government’s arti- in favor of the State and denied dations. sippi state tax credit program, and former State Representative The allegations in the com- fi cial fl ooding amounts to an the federal government’s mo- “Bringing nonprofi ts and phi- which was passed in the 2019 Jeffery C. Smith (Columbus). plaint, fi led in the U.S. Court unconstitutional taking, seeks tion to dismiss Mississippi’s lanthropy together is central to legislative session, helped gen- “We understand our power is in of Federal Claims, stem from at least $25 million in damages. valid claim for relief from the our mission, and this event is a erate $2 million in investments partnerships,” said Moon. “We artifi cial fl ooding caused by the The U.S. Constitution’s Fifth unconstitutional taking of thou- clear example of the tremendous in nonprofi t endowment funds will continue to build positive Old River Control Structure, Amendment Takings Clause sands of acres of 16th Section value in creating space for lead- in communities throughout relationships with legislators, a water control project under requires the government to pay land. When we fi led this liti- ers and professionals in these Mississippi – funds that will be policymakers, business leaders the purview of the U.S. Army “just” compensation when it gation, I said that when public sectors to share ideas and in- invested in those communities and others to improve outcomes Corps of Engineers. Launched takes property for public use. trust land is destroyed unlaw- formation,” said Sammy Moon, in the future. for Mississippi’s children, fami- in the early 1950s, the project The school districts repre- fully, our children are the ones executive director of The Alli- “We are proud and privi- lies and communities.” sought to change the natural sented in the lawsuit include the who suffer. The only respon- ance. “The work we’re doing is leged to have the opportunity For more information on The course of water fl owing from Claiborne County School Dis- sible action is for the federal helping create a national model to host nationally renowned Alliance, visit www.alliancems. the Mississippi River to the trict, Jefferson County School government to make our school for what’s possible, and we’re leaders and experts as well as org or call 601 968-0061. Atchafalaya River by diverting District, Natchez-Adams districts whole.” more water down the Mississip- School District and the Wilkin- Background on State of pi River. The goal was to pre- son County School District. Mississippi v. USA, Consoli- vent damage to cities in Loui- Sixteenth Section land is se- dated Nos. 19-231L/19-258L siana, including Baton Rouge lect property in each county (16th Section Takings Case) and New Orleans. set aside when the state was In February 2019, then-Sec- The project, however, failed formed for the benefi t of public retary of State Delbert Hose- to account for the inevitable schools. Across the state, about mann and the Mississippi At- destruction of Mississippi 640,000 acres of 16th Section torney General’s Offi ce fi led land. Over the years, artifi cial land are held in trust for school suit against the federal govern- fl ooding from the structure has districts. ment on behalf of school chil- caused increased siltation, de- For more information about dren in districts in southwest terioration of wildlife habitats, 16th Section land in Mississip- Mississippi alleging an uncon- tree mortality and other prob- pi, visit http://www.sos.ms.gov/ stitutional taking of thousands lems on private and public land Public-Lands/Pages/16th-Sec- of acres of 16th Section land. along almost 100 miles of the tion-Lands.aspx.

Senator John Horhn honored the recipients of the Governor’s Arts Awards, February 6, with Senate Resolutions for their contributions to the arts in Mississippi and the world

Standing left to right are: Richard Kelso of Cleveland, recipient of Senate Resolution 531 and was award- ed the 2020 Governor’s Arts Award for Excellence in Visual Arts; Dr. Carmen J. Walters received Senate Concurrent Resolution 534 and was awarded the 2020 Governor’s Arts Award for Preservation of the Arts because of the school’s extensive art collection; Steve Forbert, a folk rock singer from Meridian, received Senate Concurrent Resolution 532 for being awarded the 2020 Governor’s Arts Award for Excellence in Music; Henry Danton of Petal, received Senate Concurrent Resolution 533 for being awarded the Gover- nor’s Arts Award for Lifetime Achievement in Dance; The Jackson Southernaires of Jackson, members Huey Williams, James Burks and Maurice Surrell, received Senate Concurrent Resolution 535 for being awarded the Governor’s Arts Award for Lifetime Achievement in Music. Williams’ granddaughter Braydi Carter, is pictured behind him. NATIONAL

10 • THE MISSISSIPPI LINK FEBRUARY 13 - 19, 2020 www.mississippilink.com With no clear front runner, Bloomberg spends $3.5 million with the Black Press

By Hazel Trice Edney memorate the 1921 race riots in and Hamil Harris Tulsa where African-American NNPA Newswire Contributor business owners were killed and Former New York City Mayor their shops burned in one of the Mike Bloomberg has just made worse race riots in US history. Black History. The presidential “For hundreds of years, Ameri- candidate who has been running ca systematically stole black lives, his campaign through television black freedom and black labor,” ads and private meetings this Bloomberg told the audience. “A week spent a historic amount of theft of labor and a transfer of money with black newspapers – wealth – enshrined in law and en- $3.5 million. forced by violence.” “Of all the presidential candi- Chavis Bloomberg also unveiled his dates in the 2020 election, Bloom- “Greenwood Initiative” that calls berg just made the largest single 11 candidate race with fi ve other for: The creation of 1 million new political ad buy in the history of Then New York Mayor Mike Bloomberg with then President Barack Obama. Bloomberg, who has yet to major contenders: Vermont Sena- black homeowners in the next the NNPA,” said Ben Chavis, directly compete in a Democratic primary or caucus, is courting black voters through advertisements and tor Bernie Sanders, former South decade; the creation of 100,000 president/CEO of the National private meetings – including a $3.5 million ad buy in the Black Press. Bend, Indiana Mayor Pete But- new black-owned businesses in Newspaper Publishers Associa- tigieg, Senator Elizabeth Warren ten years; the investment of $70 tion (NNPA), in an interview with While Chavis was clear that agenda for African Americans. vantaged neighborhoods.” and Vice President Joe Biden. billion in 100 of America’s most the Trice Edney News Wire. “The that NNPA does not endorse can- And it was very close to the U. With Iowa and New Hamp- Right now, there is no clear front disadvantaged neighborhoods. money has already been distrib- didates, dollars spent in black S. Black Chambers’ economic shire, largely white states that are runner. While Obama has not endorsed uted and it’s running in our news- newspapers and with black media agenda from increasing the num- now all but in rear view, the po- Initially Biden was counting on any candidate, Bloomberg has papers right now.” are often seen as the sign of a can- ber of black-owned businesses litical armies of the Democratic South Carolina, North Carolina launched an ad campaign promot- Chavis says the money will be didate who is serious about black to increasing the number of de- Party are racing from New Hamp- and other southern states with a ing his connection with Obama broken down among NNPA mem- issues. posits into black banks, increase shire to Nevada and South Caro- large number of African-Amer- that starts with a news clip featur- ber newspapers in states that hold “NNPA is a 501-C6; so we the number of African American lina and while Bernie Sanders and ican voters to give him a much ing his words from 2013. primaries on Super Tuesday and don’t endorse,” said Chavis. “But homeowners, increase the num- Pete Buttigieg are claiming front needed boost. But according to “At a time when Washington is beyond. Super Tuesday states in- our member newspapers have ber of contracts awarded to black runner status, Bloomberg will not one key political observer that re- divided in old ideological battles, clude Alabama, Arkansas, Colo- the freedom to endorse whatever businesses by the federal govern- be on any ballot until Super Tues- mains to be seen. he shows us what can be achieved rado, Georgia, Massachusetts, candidate they feel will best serve ment – all issues pertaining to day, March 3, when voters go to “Black voters are still shopping. when we bring people together Minnesota, Oklahoma, Tennes- black America. But I’d just like to improving the economic agenda the polls in 12 states where nearly I don’t go by the polls and when to seek pragmatic solutions,” see, Texas, Vermont and Virginia. note for Black History sake since for black people,” Busby recalled. a quarter of the Democratic del- it comes to black women we are Obama says about Bloomberg in “It’s a national ad buy and over this is Black History Month, that “I think at the end of the day he egates will be selected. very strategic,” said Melanie the 30-second political ad. 129 of our newspapers will bene- Bloomberg just made Black his- is very open to improving condi- But that didn’t stop Washington Campbell, president/CEO of the One of the challenges that each fi t from that,” Chavis said. “What tory.” tions for black people.” D.C. Mayor Muriel Bowser from National Coalition on Black Civic of the candidates have is generat- it shows is that the Bloomberg Biden has long been thought Stressing that the USBC is a endorsing the former New York Participation. “The country is in a ing excitement, according to E. campaign is taking the black vote to be the front runner in the black non-profi t and cannot endorse City mayor who has been deposit- challenging place. The whole idea Faye Williams, president of Na- seriously and it’s taking the Black community, especially because of candidates, Busby says he has had ing some of his billions in states of representative Democracy is tional Congress of Black Women. Press seriously.” his faithful service as vice presi- no such meeting with Biden. “Our across the country and showing up under threat.” “There is no excitement in the NNPA, which turns 80 in dent to President Barack Obama. plan is to meet with all of the can- at African-American events that is African Americans continue to race and my concern is that people March, has a membership of more But it is clear that Bloomberg’s didates to discuss what they plan eroding former Vice President Joe give Biden his advantage in North will stay home instead of going to than 200 black-owned newspa- strategy is to meet him head on. to do with black folks.” Bidens’ fi rewall of success. Carolina, where he is polling at 39 the polls,” Williams said. “We had pers around the country. A long- While Biden has yet to lay out a According to the Associ- “We can resolve our most percent to 12 percent for Bloom- Senators Cory Booker and Ka- standing grievance aired by the black agenda, Bloomberg, Jan. ated Press, at the Tulsa meeting, pressing problems if we have the berg and 10 percent for Sanders. mala Harris but they are gone and organization is that Democratic 19, held a meeting in Tulsa, Okla- Bloomberg “spoke out against an right leader to turn innovative But given Bloomberg’s aggres- right now we in the black commu- candidates and the Democratic homa to lay out his black econom- American history of race-based ideas into reality,” Bowser said in sive strategy, this might not be nity feel left out.” National Convention has tended ic agenda. economic inequality from slav- a Jan 30 tweet. “Mike Bloomberg enough. Benjamin F. Chavis, Jr. is presi- to take black newspapers and the Ron Busby, president/CEO of ery to segregation to redlining, is a problem-solver with a proven During his speech in Tulsa, dent and CEO of the National black voters who read them, for the U. S. Black Chambers Inc., and outlined a proposal aimed at track record of getting things Bloomberg apologized for the Newspaper Publishers Asso- granted.This is despite the fact confi rmed that he attended that increasing the number of black- done. He’s a mentor and friend controversial “stop and frisk” ciation (NNPA) representing the that African Americans vote for meeting at the invitation of the owned homes and businesses. The and I’m proud to endorse him for used by the NYPD while he was Black Press of America. He can Democratic presidential candi- Bloomberg campaign. plan includes a $70 billion invest- president.” the mayor of New York City. be reached at dr.bchavis@nnpa. dates 95 percent of the time. “It did include an economic ment in the nation’s most disad- The Democratic primary is an Bloomberg went to Tulsa to com- org.

Embezzlement Continued from page 1 properly gauge outcomes of the TANF dollars to allow his employees, even taxpayer-funded to open a charter school in Lefl ore County using the diture reporting shows funding to the north offi ce that were being spent,” Human Services spokesper- agency spokespeople, to talk with the press. Mississippi Community Education Center as the slowed signifi cantly as it made deep cuts to staff- son Danny Blanton said Thursday. Davis used the structure of Families First, which school’s potential operator. ing and services in the last year, the Daily Journal “Things may not have been done the right way in essentially privatized a large portion of the welfare Bryant touted his work with New’s organization reported. the past but we’re putting the measures in place to program, to embezzle TANF money, the auditor as recently as November 2019, when he rolled out During the contract period, the Family Resource make sure they’re done the right way in the future,” concluded. the last phase of his anti-obesity initiative that the Center received less than $7 million while Missis- Blanton said, including revising the agency’s sub- New and her son and employee, Zach New, alleg- Mississippi Community Education Center cospon- sippi Community Education Center received nearly grantee manual and conducting subgrantee training. edly transferred millions of welfare dollars to their sored. $18 million. In the last six months, while the in- None of the millions of dollars the Mississippi private businesses and converted the funds to their “Governor Bryant has never tolerated public cor- vestigation was ongoing, Family Resource Center Community Education Center receives from the personal use through “fraudulent documents, at ruption of any kind,” Joey Songy, Bryant’s chief of received just $1.5 million while Mississippi Com- state pays for the food, books or used clothing it least one forged signature, and deceptive account- staff and current business partner, told Mississippi munity Education Center received $7 million. gives to needy citizens; Lamkin said the center ing measures,” according to the state auditor’s re- Today in a statement. “On the same afternoon the The agency awarded both nonprofi ts new con- gathers all those materials through donations. lease. governor was informed of possible wrongdoing at tracts in December, neither of which appear on the Mississippi Today obtained copies of the cen- The News and Davis also allegedly used TANF DHS he called the state auditor and personally re- state’s transparency website. ter’s state contracts, which include objectives such dollars to pay for professional wrestler Brett DiBi- ported it to Shad White. He believes anyone found The Families First website is now defunct and as “’Connect the Dots’ between state agencies, ase’s stay at a luxury rehabilitation facility in Mal- guilty of any wrongdoing should be held account- Lamkin said that while Mississippi Community nonprofi ts and other organizations in the State to ibu – money they claimed they were paying him to able.” Education Center’s operations have not been inter- provide a greater network of support and increase teach classes on the dangers of drug abuse. Togeth- Blanton said the agency’s executive management rupted, the future of Families First is unclear. access for families.” Notably, the fi rst objective er they allegedly took welfare money and invested team uncovered the discrepancies after an internal So is the case for thousands of families living in in the contract is “increase employability” within it in medical device companies in Florida, the audi- audit. Jacob Black, the agency’s current interim di- poverty, who may not receive the assistance they the TANF population, such as through soft skills tor’s offi ce said. rector, reported that information to then-Gov. Phil need even if the center remains open. training and resume writing. It is also required to The auditor has not released the dollar amount Bryant. Davis abruptly resigned in July 2019. Lamkin explained what happens when a person provide high school diploma and credit recovery of the scheme as the investigation continues. The “John Davis had 30 years of experience with the who may be behind on a utility bill visits the cen- courses, parenting classes, teen pregnancy educa- News, Davis and other state and nonprofi t employ- agency so it was never questioned when (TANF) ter, which is located inside the former Human Ser- tion, including abstinence education. ees indicted in what investigators called a “sprawl- was unilaterally distributed to subgrantees without vices government building: “Let’s say, for instance, In other words, the tens of millions of dollars ing conspiracy” face hundreds of years in prison, an RFP (Request for Proposals) process,” Blanton somebody comes in and they say, ‘They’re about to taxpayers gave to Mississippi Community Educa- the release said. said. cut my gas off. I need $40 for my gas bill.’ Well I tion Center was not to provide direct assistance to New, founder of the private New Summit School Bryant replaced Davis with former FBI agent can’t just give them $40.” poor families. Rather, it was to refer them to partner in Jackson, has long had the support of state leader- Christopher Freeze, who announced Human Ser- Lamkin gestured to the shelves in the Families agencies that could meet their needs. ship and often appeared on conservative SuperTalk vices would be undergoing more stringent procure- First food pantry, lined almost exclusively with “We turn around and fund other good services radio to promote her work. ment practices before stepping down in January. canned corn and green beans. “But I can give them across the state with some of that money,” New told In his fi nal State of the State address in January “I don’t care how politically connected a person $40 worth of food.” Mississippi Today in a 2018 interview. 2019, then-Gov. Phil Bryant boosted her organiza- may be,” State Auditor Shad White said in his re- Asked why the welfare agency couldn’t provide “All of that money didn’t come to Families First tion’s role in “helping to restore and support the lease. “You do not have the right to treat taxpayer energy assistance, Lamkin responded, “I don’t have to do Families First activities every day. It was a entire family.” money as your own or to lie to the taxpayers about the funding,” then clarifi ed, “Our grant doesn’t al- fl o w - t h r o u g h . ” “The Families First platform has become a model what you’re doing with that money. Others doing low for that. I can’t just give a client cash.” New, who could not be reached on her cellphone of success for thousands of Mississippians and one this kind of thing are on notice: this will not be tol- In a video announcing the opening of the new Wednesday evening, said Families First exists to that is being emulated all across America,” Bryant erated now.” center in September, Lamkin encourages people to support “all the good stuff already being done out said in the address. New’s organization was not the only to receive a visit the center to “play with our VR (virtual real- there.” She added: “Our job is to connect the dots.” In 2016, Bryant and his wife, Deborah, stood contract from Human Services to run Families First ity) equipment.” He declined Thursday to comment Mississippi’s Temporary Assistance for Needy shoulder-to-shoulder with Nancy New and Davis, for Mississippi. The operation was split between further. Families attracted national attention in 2017 when a Bryant appointee, at the ribbon cutting ceremony Mississippi Community Education Center, which Meanwhile, the number of families in the state Human Services reported rejecting 98.5 percent of for the original Families First offi ce in Jackson be- managed the services for central and south Mis- who receive cash assistance through TANF has welfare applicants the previous year. The agency fore it moved to the State Street location. sissippi, and Family Resource Center of Northeast plummeted from over 12,000 a decade ago to just also reported leaving nearly $50 million in TANF “I grew up in a family with a mother,” said First Mississippi, which manages the northern offi ces. 3,500 in 2019, serving less than fi ve percent of the funds unused. After that, the agency stopped pub- Lady Bryant. “She believed in doing the right thing. The charges the auditor’s offi ce announced this children who live in poverty in Mississippi. lishing its approval rate in annual reports, which We had that growing up. But some of these children week did not involve Family Resource Center of Editor’s note: This story has been updated to re- shrunk from 108 pages in 2004 to 20 pages in 2019 don’t have that opportunity. This (new Families Northeast Mississippi. fl ect that an internal audit and the human-services – one way the agency managed its programs in se- First facility) is for them.” The 2019 contracts to the two nonprofi ts were for management team revealed discrepancies that crecy under director Davis. Davis regularly refused In previous years, New attempted unsuccessfully the same amount, $10.6 million, but state expen- prompted the auditor’s investigation. www.mississippilink.com FEBRUARY 13 - 19, 2020 THE MISSISSIPPI LINK • 11

PRESERVED The victory is Not just in being obedient another day By Shewanda Riley change my focus: First, I make Columnist PART 2 sure that I treat myself on Val- “Feb. 14th? entine’s Day whether I’m in a That’s just anoth- relationship or not. Next, I give By Pastor Simeon R. Green III the Jordan River into the Ca- God will make a way for you. church to have victory. If you Special to The Mississippi Link er day to me.” “I to others instead of waiting for naan Land, they came to the He gave Israel the order to will be still and hear what hate Valentine’s others to give to me. I’ve found After the City of Jericho. God said He march around the city and to the Spirit says, you can go Day at my job. that inexpensive cards, home- death of Mo- would give the city to them. keep silent. That was a diffi - through any problem or trial All the women made treats and candy turn out ses, Joshua was The walls of Jericho were cult order, but they obeyed it. victoriously. get roses and to be valuable to both the giver chosen to lead no trouble to God. He told That might have seemed fool- Friend, if you are going to I get nothing.” and the receiver. the children of Israel to march around the ish to them, but God saw that make it, you must line up with “It’s basically another Christ- The real beauty of Valentine’s Israel, and God walls of the city once a day it was necessary for them to God’s Word. God’s church is mas for women.” Do comments Day is being able to give un- e n c o u r a g e d for six days and seven times obtain victory. The victory is marching on with the truth, like these sound familiar? Since conditional love with a grateful Joshua. In Joshua 1:5, He on the seventh day. When in being obedient to the One and I intend to march with it. Valentine’s Day is just around heart. Luke 6:38 reminds “Give, said, “As I was with Moses, they obeyed Him, He brought who made the plan. God’s people never lose the corner, we are either bound and it will be given to you...For so I will be with thee. I will down the walls. As Israel marched around their thrill for the sounding to say or hear one of these from with the measure you use, it will not fail thee.” Romans 8:37 states, “We the walls of Jericho the sev- of the trumpet. If you lose men and women, single and be measured to you.” Christian friend, you need are more than conquerors enth day, they were com- your love for the truth, you married. I’ve also meditated on this to be encouraged. You might through Him that loved us.” manded to sound the trum- will lose the victory. Maybe because I was blessed prayer: have a rough road ahead of The walls were a big obstacle pet. The sound of the trumpet Rev. Simeon R. Green III is to have a wonderful father who Heavenly Father, I come to you, but it will not be too hard for Israel in conquering Jeri- was the only thing blasting pastor of Joynes Road Church always gave me, my 3 sisters you fi rst celebrating all that you for you if the Lord is with cho. Friends, you will not get against the walls. of God, 31 Joynes Road, and my mom candy for Valen- have done in my life and all that you. Joshua knew that the victory without a battle. You Many people try to battle Hampton VA 23669. He is a tine’s Day, I look forward to it. you promise to do for me. No Lord would be with him and will have to fi ght Satan all the enemy with their own member of the National Asso- It was sweet that my dad, an ex- longer will I place counterfeit in- that would take him through. the way. You may come up hands, but they need to leave ciation of Evangelism Church tremely generous man, would be timacy and companionship over When the Israelites crossed against some high walls, but it where God ordained the of God, Anderson, Ind. so focused on getting chocolate the desire you have for me to candy hearts for us. Of course, have Godly intimacy with you. mama always got the biggest I will remain submitted to your Moving the Masses Toward the Mission of the Master one. Godly will and look forward to Even though we live hours the many opportunities that you apart now, because of this, there give me to show your grace and is still a part of me that expects love to others. I John 4:18 says to see that box of candy sitting “There is no fear in love; but on the dining room table on Val- perfect love casts out fear.” I entine’s Day. praise you in advance for giving Regardless of whether I get me wisdom and the right strate- anything for Valentine’s Day, gies as I will no longer be con- my thoughts of Valentine’s Day trolled by fear but will live my are usually pretty joyful. But life with the passion of David, 1750 Valentine’s Day hasn’t always the commitment of Paul and the SUNDAY been good day for me. One year, mind of Christ. Amen. Worship Services www.nhcms.org I was so heartbroken that even Happy Valentine’s Day and 10:00 a.m. walking down the Valentine’s spread God’love. Sunday School 8:45 a.m. aisle in the grocery store brought Shewanda Riley is a Fort MONDAY me to tears. It was just my emo- Worth, Texas based author of tions getting the best of me, but “Love Hangover: Moving from Intercessory Prayer 9:00 a.m. I just couldn’t take why on a day Pain to Purpose After a Rela- WEDNESDAY that celebrated love, God would tionship Ends” and “Writing to Prayer Service 6:30 p.m. allow me to once again spend it the Beat of God’s Heart: A Book Classes: Children • Youth • Adult - 7:00p.m. alone, without any gifts of love of Prayers for Writers.” Email Michael T. Williams and feeling unloved. preservedbypurpose@gmail. Pastor Following my dad’s tradition, com or follow her on Twitter @ one thing I’ve done is slowly shewanda.

New Bethel Missionary Baptist Church Pastor, Dr. F. R. Lenoir Sunday School - 9:15 a.m. Sunday Morning Worship - 10:30 a.m. Live Radio Broadcast WOAD AM 1300 - 11:00 a.m. - 12:00 p.m.

“A Church Preparing for a Home Not Built by Man” New Bethel M. B. Church • 450 Culberston Ave. • Jackson, MS 39209 601-969-3481/969-3482 • Fax # 601-969-1957 • E-Mail: [email protected] OPINION

12 • THE MISSISSIPPI LINK FEBRUARY 13 - 19, 2020 www.mississippilink.com More National Gun Violence Survivors than ‘a vote’ Week highlights those whose

By E. Faye Williams Trice Edney Newswire lives have been changed forever I can’t really say what motivated me to view the By Marc H. Morial dren that she will never get a chance to In honor of National Gun Violence gun, are sharing their stories on the movie “SELMA” again, Trice Edney Newswire have,” Cleopatra says. Survivors week, Everytown For Gun Moments that Survive story wall. but I found it to be inspi- “On January 8, 2011, Hadiya was shot and killed seven Safety is sharing the stories of those Survivors and allies are amplifying rational as well as illu- I was performing my years ago, while standing in a Chi- whose lives have been forever changed their voices on social media using the minating, especially as it favorite duty as a Con- cago park with friends after taking her by gun violence. National Urban hashtag #MomentsthatSurvive, to rep- explored the importance gresswoman – meeting fi nal exams. Just a week earlier, she League is proud to be a partner of Ev- resent the moments and memories that of voting. I’ve come to believe those of with my constituents had marched with pride in President erytown, a coalition that includes par- endure for survivors after experiencing us who are more chronically advanced, – when it happened. In Obama’s inauguration ceremony. ents, students, responsible gun owners, gun violence. politically oriented or who, out of a sense a matter of seconds, a Thirteen-year-old Malachi Hemphill teachers, police offi cers, elected offi - There are more survivors than we of obligation to our predecessors, routinely gunman shot and killed six people, in- accidentally shot himself while play- cials and social justice organizations, might imagine. A shocking 58 percent vote with the regularity of “Old Faithful,” jured 12 others and shot me in the head ing with a gun his friend stole from a working together to end gun violence of American adults have experienced sometimes fail to understand that others outside a Safeway in Tucson, Arizona. I neighbor. The owner, who’d kept it in and build safer communities. gun violence or are close to someone haven’t learned or been taught the signifi - keep the memories of those we lost that a console in his unlocked car, didn’t re- National Gun Violence Survivors who has. cance of The Vote. I don’t condemn those day – nine-year-old Christina-Taylor port it stolen and didn’t even notice it Week which began last year, is focused They are mothers like Tonjula Ma- who have a less than complete understand- Green, Dorothy Morris, Phyllis Sch- was missing. on sharing and amplifying the stories son-Shelby, who felt that her reason ing of voting – I question those of us who neck, Dorwan Stoddard, Gabe Zim- “When his heart stopped, so did of gun violence survivors who live for living was taken from her when have forgotten to teach. merman and Judge John Roll – close to ours,” his mother, Shaniqua Stephens, with the impact of gun violence every her only child, Kimondra Mason, was I have always believed that something my heart. And I will be forever bonded says. day of the year. The week is observed gunned down. They are women who others want to deny you or in which they to my fellow survivors who will spend Jerri Mauldin Green has been af- in early February because this marks found the courage to leave their abus- want to prevent you from participation is the rest of their lives dealing with inju- fected by gun violence three times. She the approximate time that gun deaths ers, like Laura Morris who bears the important, especially to them. We can see ries and trauma.” – Former Congress- grew up hearing the tragic story of her in the United States surpass the num- scar of a gunshot wound on her shoul- this played out historically in education, woman Gabrielle Giffords grandparents’ murder-suicide when her ber of gun deaths experienced by our der. They are daughters like Khary jobs and voting. Sometimes, Cleopatra Pendleton mother was only 6 years old. Her child- peer countries in an entire calendar Penebaker, whose mother Joyce took To understand the real importance of walks to her closet and runs her hands hood best friend was murdered by the year. her own life with a gun when Khary voting, we must quickly review the voting through a sequined yellow dress. It was father of her children when the boys Hundreds of survivors like Cleopa- was a child. process before 1965. the dress her daughter Hadiya wore to were only 2 years old and 4 years old. tra, Shaniqua and Jerri, who have lost Their lives have been changed lives Ratifi ed in 1870, the Fifteenth Amend- her eighth-grade graduation luncheon. And just this year, a new friend she’d loved ones, along with those who have forever. Sharing their stories highlights ment to the Constitution prohibited states “Sometimes, for just a moment, I met at a leadership course was shot and witnessed an act of gun violence, or the devastating human consequences from denying a male citizen the right to imagine that I’m saving it for the chil- killed in his home. been threatened or wounded with a of gun violence in America. vote based on “race, color or previous condition of servitude.” Many will also forget that women had to wait until 1920 to receive the right to vote. This amend- ment could change the law, but it could not change the hearts and minds of those who Hair discrimination is alive and well were entrenched in the belief in racial su- periority. By Julianne Malveaux norms. crimination is alive and well. I really don’t care how people Those who so believed and administered NNPA News Wire Columnist the voting process in states and localities Andrew Johnson and DeAndre Ar- The text of the California legisla- wear their hair. It truly is a matter of established extra-legal methods to prevent Andrew Johnson, a nold made headlines, but many cases tion explores the history of hair dis- choice. And hair does not have to be African Americans from voting. Most high school wrestler, do not. Often, the “code” is subtle, crimination. It reads in part, “The political. But hair choices must be notable of these methods were literacy was forced to submit and the backlash painful and unde- history of our nation is riddled with respected and discrimination against tests which required unreasonable factual to the humiliating act niable, but never spoken. So many laws and societal norms that equated natural hair, braids, twists and locs knowledge such as reciting the Constitu- of having his dread- women are told that their hair is “too ‘blackness,’ and the associated physi- cannot be tolerated. Intolerance about tion or reciting with perfect accuracy spe- locks shorn or have wild” or “ungroomed,” as if bone cal traits, for example, dark skin, natural hair is an intolerance against cifi c facts about state laws. Some “tests” his New Jersey team straight hair is the only way to wear kinky and curly hair to a badge of in- black people. It is, at best, unaccept- were as ridiculous as stating the number forfeit their match to the opposing it. And perhaps it is not said so much feriority, sometimes subject to sepa- able. of beans in a large jar or the number of team. A gleeful white woman seemed as hinted. And black women (and rate and unequal treatment.” The bill Kudos to California State Senator bubbles that could be created by a bar of too pleased to invade the young men) have the choice of playing the goes on to say, “Professionalism was, Holly Mitchell for starting the ball soap. These tests were used to disqualify man’s person, and his team won, but game or stalling their careers. This and still is, closely linked to Euro- rolling. Congratulations to those who African-American voters, but these same at what price? When this happened doesn’t happen so much on the coasts pean features and mannerisms, which worked with her to pass this impor- “tests” were not administered to whites. in December of 2018, there was a in California, New York and the Dis- entails that those who do not natu- tant legislation. And shout out to the In the aftermath of the brutal, bloody national outcry, and the referee was trict of Columbia. But it happens rally fall into Eurocentric norms must others who have embraced her legis- events on the Edmund Pettus Bridge and suspended. enough that activists have worked to alter their appearances, sometimes lation by introducing it in other states. other violent deaths in the struggle to gain A year later, DeAndre Arnold, a se- outlaw hair discrimination. drastically and permanently, in order Hair discrimination is not the most the unencumbered voting rights, in March nior at Barbers Hill High School in On July 3, 2019, California became to be deemed professional.” egregious injustice that black people of 1965, the 1965 Voting Rights Act was Mont Belvieu, Texas, was told that he the fi rst in the nation to outlaw dis- The fact that a diversity of hair- experience, but it is an injustice none- signed into law. would not be able to graduate unless criminating against natural hair. The styles needs to be addressed through theless. Just ask DeAndre Arnold, Fast forward to today. Just what do we he cut his hair. He’s been growing his CROWN Act, or Create a Respect- legislation speaks to the intransigence who won’t be able to march with give up without the unencumbered right dreads for more than fi ve years, often ful and Open Workplace for Natural of white supremacy, the need white his peer graduates because he wears to vote. Of course, we give up the right to wearing them in a bun so that they did Hair, was signed into law by Gover- supremacists have to require black dreads, or the wrestler, Andrew John- select a candidate of our choice. That loss not violate the school rule that hair nor Gavin Newsom. A few days lat- people to conform to their standards. son, whose locs were shorn because a is something that most will immediately could not touch the collar. This is part er, New York State passed a similar Even as the population of people racist referee had neither intelligence recognize, but what peripheral losses will of a pattern of policing black hair in law, as did New Jersey. A few cities of color grows in our nation, white nor tolerance. we experience? our nation’s high schools and work- and counties, like Cincinnati, OH supremacists are holding on, strong, Dr. Julianne Malveaux is an Statistically, progressive voters outnum- places. And these dress codes are an and Montgomery County, Maryland, to their racist norms. Some of them economist, author, media contribu- ber conservative voters by a wide margin. attack on black people, designed by have also followed suit. don’t even think they are racists. tor and educator. Her latest project By needing to overcome voter apathy in- white people and for white people. A dozen or so other states and mu- They are, indeed, “nice” people. MALVEAUX! On UDCTV is avail- spired by a “lack of excitement” or the Hostility toward natural hair, locs nicipalities have explored, and even They speak of neatness, wildness and able on youtube.com. For booking, failure of candidates to pass a 100% lit- and twists is really unvarnished introduced legislation that prohib- their own discomfort with “different” wholesale inquiries or for more info mus tests of political purity, we have sur- hostility toward blackness and its its discrimination against those who hair. They think that folks should visit www.juliannemalveaux.com rendered our polling place power. Our ac- manifestation. It is an insistence that wear natural hair, braids, locs or go through having their hair fried to ceptance of the belief that “our votes don’t black people conform to Eurocentric twists. Despite legislation, hair dis- make other people comfortable. count” surrenders our lives to those who have no concerns about our or our chil- dren’s future. Probably our most signifi cant loss is in the judicial arena. For as long as I can re- Witnessing two history-makers in action member, the Civil Rights community has depended upon the reasoned judgment of By A. Peter Bailey gants in Howard University’s Andrew I’m a black Baptist.” Wright is not tionally brutalizes the mostly rural a judiciary with a dedication to upholding TriceEdneyWire.com Rankin Memorial Chapel in Cramton just a christian; he’s a black christian. young black soldiers under his com- the law for all citizens instead of one com- As we continue to Auditorium. The second history-maker, Fuller, mand. “It’s people like you,” he con- mitted to conservative partisan interests. celebrate Black His- With a compelling voice he urged though not physically present when tinuously snarls at them, “who justify Court decisions limiting the rights of the tory Month 2020, it black folks to not be discouraged or I saw his unforgettable play, A Sol- the attitude of white folks about us.” masses exemplifi ed by Citizens United, is necessary to pay distracted by current events in this na- dier’s Play, on Broadway, was defi - Eventually he is mysteriously killed. upholding Republican Party Gerrymander- tribute to two history- tion. He cited historical and Biblical nitely there spiritually. I fi rst saw his The second leading character is a ing and loosening the enforcement guide- makers who are still references to show that this is noth- compelling, provocative creation in black army captain, played by Blair lines of the Voting Rights Act all stand in with us, Rev. Dr. Jer- ing new, that our ancestors with de- the 1970s when it was presented by Underwood, whose job is to fi nd out stark contrast to the expansion of rights en- emiah A. Wright Jr., who is a renown termination, faith and skills had made the Negro Ensemble Company. It is who killed the despicable sergeant. gendered by the Brown v. Board decision. historian of religion and Charles it through similar or even worse cir- one of my favorite plays. Fuller, with Throughout the play, which takes Failing to vote or allowing petty con- Fuller, one of the premier playwrights cumstances. supreme talent and intelligence make place during World War II, Fuller siderations to prevent us from voting with of our time. During the past month He made a special appeal to the audiences aware of the lacerating includes conversations from white others who share our short- and long-term I’ve had the spiritually enhancing, signifi cant number of young people psychological damage this basically offi cers about confronting the Nazis. interests, we choose to live life by default knowledge-expanding experience among the congregants. “Stay woke! white supremacist society infl icts on What they didn’t talk about was the – accepting only what others offer us. Our of witnessing two brilliant, serious, Stay conscious! Hold on to your way too many black men. brutality and terrorism being infl icted offering to our children is the same. thought-provoking brothers in action. hope,” he urged them to enthusiastic The lead character, played by Da- on black folks by white supremacists E. Faye Williams is President of the Na- Wright, despite being in a wheel- amens and applause. vid Alan Grier, is a demonic, self-hat- in the United States. tional Congress of Black Women. She hosts chair, delivered a powerful Dr. King When attending Rev. Wyatt Tee ing black sergeant who is basically a A wise person will take advantage “Wake Up and Stay Woke” on WPFW-FM birthday message, titled “What Do Walker’s church in Harlem, he would black white supremacist. With scorn of any opportunity to see the two 89.3 radio. You See?,” to over 1,500 congre- sometimes say “I’m not just a Baptist. and disgust, he physically and emo- great history-makers in action.

Editorials and Letters to the Editor may be e-mailed to [email protected] or mailed to 2659 Livingston Road, Jackson, MS 39213. The views and opinions expressed on the Op/Ed pages are not necessarily the views and opinions of The Mississippi Link. The Mississippi Link also reserves the right to edit all material for length and accuracy. HEALTH

www.mississippilink.com FEBRUARY 13 - 19, 2020 THE MISSISSIPPI LINK • 13 Managing your weight: UMMC program Heart and offers individualized approach blood vessels The Mississippi Link Newswire the same front-end screening as When Katelyn Greenlaw eats, adults, including checks for de- her body doesn’t get the memo pression, anxiety and bullying. when she’s had enough. Often, the entire family, not just change A rare genetic disease, Prader- the child, needs help with moti- Willi Syndrome, keeps Katelyn vation for weight management, from experiencing the sensation Sandridge said. of fullness. “In her mind, even “The family has to be on as we age after she eats, she will say she is board,” she said. “Children mir- hungry,” said Talisha Greenlaw, ror what they see others do, so we By Glenn Ellis of the circulatory system is mom of 19-year-old Katelyn. try to make it a family-based ap- TriceEdneyWire.com Chronic venous insuffi ciency Children and adults with Prad- proach so that everyone is prac- Age plays a (CVI). An estimated 40 per- er-Willi often cope with obesity. ticing a healthy lifestyle. That signifi cant role cent of people in the United “You eat and eat and eat. We have way, one child isn’t being singled in vein health. States have CVI. Chronic to be mindful of that,” Talisha out.” Aging can venous insuffi ciency occurs Greenlaw said. Mild to moderate Exercise can be as simple as cause changes when these valves become intellectual and developmental “just putting on music and danc- in the heart and damaged, allowing the blood disabilities Katelyn copes with ing is a way to be active, and Pediatric gastroenterology nurse practitioner Shanda Sandridge ex- blood vessels. to leak backward. Valve dam- also are common with the syn- there are online videos,” San- plains healthy meal choices to patient Katelyn Greenlaw. As people age, the heart age may occur, not only as the drome. dridge said. ‘We fi gure out what tends to enlarge slightly, de- result of aging, but also as a Katelyn, however, is learning seen by Momah and Bibb, most gram is recognized as a Quality the child is interested in.” veloping thicker walls and result of extended sitting or how to manage her food intake between ages 40-50, have an Comprehensive Center under the Katelyn is learning to be slightly larger chambers. The standing or a combination of and nutrition decisions thanks to average BMI of 50.3. A healthy American College of Surgeons’ mindful of everything she eats, increase in size is mainly due aging and reduced mobility. her multidisciplinary care team weight for adults generally Metabolic and Bariatric Surgery including her carbohydrate in- to an increase in the size of When the veins and valves at the University of Mississippi equates to a BMI of at least 19 Accreditation and Quality Im- take, Greenlaw said. The pro- individual heart muscle cells. are weakened to the point Medical Center’s weight man- but less than 25. provement Program. gram suggests 30 carbs per meal Together, these changes make where it is diffi cult for the agement program. The Madison “That tells you how severe Patients often come to the pro- and 15 per snack, but Greenlaw the vessels stiffer and less re- blood to fl ow up to the heart, Central High student is currently the problem is in Mississippi,” gram “as their very last straw,” sometimes cuts those numbers silient. blood pressure in the veins bridging from pediatric to adult Momah said. The state consis- Momah said. “Most come be- to give Katelyn a little leeway in The heart has two sides. stays elevated for long peri- care, said Shanda Sandridge, her tently ranks either fi rst or second cause they want to lose weight to the event she unexpectedly takes The right-side pumps blood ods of time, leading to CVI. pediatric gastroenterology nurse nationally in rates of obesity at have a procedure – a transplant, in an extra snack. “That way, it to the lungs to receive oxygen It occurs more frequently in practitioner. about 39 percent of residents. or knee or hip surgery. They won’t tip the scales,” Greenlaw and get rid of carbon dioxide. people over age 50, and more No matter the patient’s age, Adult bariatric surgery is led might say their doctor won’t op- said. The left side pumps oxygen- often in women than in men. there’s a commonality in their by Dr. Kenneth Vick, professor erate on them because they want “If someone gives her the op- rich blood to the body. Vein damage is cumulative care: Everyone has a specifi c of general surgery. The care team them to lose weight fi rst.” tion between an apple and a Blood fl ows out of the – the longer we live, the more team that works in tandem to cre- includes Robertson, Smith, nurse Some patients immediately cookie, she will pick the apple, heart through arteries, which challenges our veins have en- ate an individual treatment plan, practitioner Jennifer Godbold, want bariatric surgery, even even though she wants the cook- branch out and get smaller dured. By the time we reach especially in the face of pre-ex- and the nursing and support staff. though they haven’t tried and ie. I let it be her decision.” and smaller as they go into an advanced age, our legs isting health conditions that can Candidates for bariatric sur- failed to lose weight through diet Sandridge has been a big help, the tissues. In the tissues, have undergone many years exacerbate obesity. And, care is gery generally have a body mass and exercise. “We want them fi rst Greenlaw said. “She suggested they become tiny capillaries. of stress. Age, sedentary life- structured so that patients can index of at least 40, or 35 with to try to lose weight in a non-sur- getting Katelyn her own small Capillaries are where the style and obesity are the main see multiple team members at a co-morbidities such as cardio- gical manner. We don’t want sur- refrigerator. All of the things in blood gives up oxygen and risk factors for the develop- single appointment. vascular disease or diabetes, gery to be seen as the easy way it are hers. We also pack lunch nutrients to the tissues, and ment of chronic venous in- “I tell patients that this is a said Adam Dungey, the Medical out, because it’s not,” Dungey in cute containers, and if we do receives carbon dioxide and suffi ciency in the elderly. Pa- three-pronged approach: the ex- Center’s administrator of weight said. a turkey burger, she uses lettuce wastes back from the tissues. tients present with complaints ercise part, the nutrition part and management services. Proce- The weight management team for the bread.” Then, the vessels begin to such as pain, edema, burning, the pharmacological part,” said dures offered include vertical fi rst educates patients about nu- The multidisciplinary ap- collect together into larger bloating, weight sensation, Dr. Tobe Momah, an assistant sleeve gastrectomy, Roux-en-Y trition and lifestyle changes they proach to care is good for com- and larger veins, which return restless leg syndrome, night professor in the Department of gastric bypass and adjustable must make in order to reach munication and convenience, blood to the heart. cramps, varicosities, color Family Medicine who is board- gastric band in addition to revi- and maintain their goal weight. Greenlaw said. “She has several The heart has a pacing sys- change and open wound in certifi ed in obesity medicine. sional bariatric procedures. “Some patients lose weight that doctors already, so it makes it a tem that controls the heart- the legs. “The more we treat them col- Patients must complete an ex- way and don’t need surgery,” he lot easier to see them all at one beat and regulates the elec- According to WebMD, laboratively, the better the out- tensive screening process to re- said. time,” she said. “Katelyn likes it trical signals that stimulate “your age isn’t the only thing come.” ceive medical clearance, which But for others, surgery is a tool because each of them knows her the heart’s pumping action. that can affect your arteries. The weight management pro- can include a sleep study, cardio- to get them started because it de- progress, and she has three peo- Over time, this natural pace- Lifestyle matters, too. Ex- gram offers a number of options vascular screens, a psychological creases the size of the stomach, ple giving her praise as opposed maker loses some of its cells, tra weight, smoking, lack of at its spacious new clinic location evaluation and pre-surgery edu- thus the amount of food you can to just one person. and some of its electrical exercise and eating a lot of at Riverchase Medical Suites, cation, Dungey said. A surgical take in, Dungey said. “When we leave, she wants to pathways may get damaged. foods high in trans-fat can all 2550 Flowood Drive in Flowood. workup follows, and they receive Ongoing care from the entire be able to lose fi ve more pounds. These changes can result in take a toll. Potentially dan- Adult medical, non-surgical comprehensive post-operative team is critical to patients main- She says, ‘Crystal will be proud a slightly slower heart rate gerous artery problems con- weight management is led by follow-up care for life. taining their weight loss, he said. of me. Shanda will be proud of at rest and a greater suscep- sidered common as people Momah and Dr. Kimberly Bibb, Sandridge leads pediatric “That and lifestyle changes are me.’” tibility to abnormal rhythms age may actually be avoided also an assistant professor in the weight management, with collab- the most important factors,” he The weight management pro- (the most common of which or delayed well into the se- Department of Family Medicine orating providers including the said. “If you don’t make the other gram “is a much-needed ser- is known as “atrial fi brilla- nior years.” and board-certifi ed in obesity entire adult weight management changes, you don’t have suc- vice,” Momah said. “We know as tion”). As you get older, it’s im- medicine. team and Dr. Naznin Dixit, pro- cess.” clinicians that once we get a pa- With increasing age, all portant for you to have your The care team also includes fessor of pediatric endocrinology. When a pediatric patient still tient’s weight under control, then the structures of the heart blood pressure checked regu- registered dietitian Paul Robert- The team also includes dieti- requires care as they approach it helps us control heart disease, also become more rigid. The larly, even if you are healthy. son and Dr. Buren Smith, a clini- tian Krista King and Dr. Crystal adulthood, they’re transitioned diabetes, high blood pressure, ar- muscles of the left ventricle This is because aging changes cal psychologist. The program Lim, a psychologist and a direc- to the adult team. And for some thritis, stroke and kidney disease. get thicker, the heart may in- in your arteries can lead to hy- also includes pharmacy services, tor in the Department of Psy- children, the weight loss journey “The bottom line is that weight crease slightly in size, and the pertension. You may feel fi ne meal replacement and supple- chiatry and Human Behavior. can begin when they’re as young management is comprehensive volume of the left ventricle but, if not treated, high blood ments, and lifestyle and behavior Patients receive lifestyle and be- as 2, Sandridge said. “The most and collaborative care in all as- may decline. As a result, the pressure could lead to stroke therapy. Exercise therapy is pro- havior therapy, family education common ages we see are 8 to 12, pects.” heart may both fi ll and empty and problems with your heart, vided at UMMC’s Wellness Cen- and meal supplementation. but we do see a fair number of For more information on more slowly, thus putting less eyes, brain and kidneys. ter in Flowood. “The great thing about it all is toddlers who are overweight and UMMC’s weight management blood into circulation. The in- To manage high blood Americans with a body mass that patients are medically super- who already have comorbidi- program, call 601 984-1285 or crease in one’s heart rate and pressure, exercise, dietary index of 40 or greater are con- vised,” Dungey said. ties,” she said. email weightmanagement@umc. cardiac output in response changes and reducing your sidered morbidly obese. Patients The weight management pro- Children undergo many of edu to physical activity is also salt intake can help, but as diminished, and one’s maxi- aging changes in the arteries mum heart rate declines. The often cause high blood pres- drop in maximum heart rate sure in older age, medication appears to be greater than av- is often necessary. It is not Free radon test kits erage in sedentary individuals uncommon to need more than and in those with overt car- one medication to control diovascular disease. your blood pressure. There is no major changes The risk for high blood available while supplies last to blood with age, but there is pressure and increased blood a reduction of red bone mar- vessel stiffness, which both The Mississippi Link Newswire natural uranium in the earth. Be- Humphreys County Public Li- Leake County Public Library row. This means that there is a increase the risk of heart dis- The Mississippi State Depart- ing a gas, radon moves upward brary – Belzoni – Carthage diminished capacity for blood ease, may be reduced with a ment of Health (MSDH) Radon out of the soil and into the air, Elizabeth Jones Public Li- Meridian-Lauderdale Public cell formation in the elderly. healthy lifestyle. Program is partnering with the where it can enter and accumu- brary – Grenada Library – Meridian In the absence of heart dis- Remember, I’m not a doc- Mississippi Public Library Sys- late in homes. Uranium is found Indianola/Sunfl ower Public Southern Mississippi ease, the heart remains essen- tor. I just sound like one. Take tem to offer free radon home test in most soils and in granite. Library – Indianola Hattiesburg Public Library – tially the same size, or dimin- good care of yourself and live kits to Mississippi residents. Test kits are available while Greenwood/Lefl ore Public Li- Hattiesburg ishes slightly in size. The is a the best life possible! Radon is an odorless, col- supplies last at the following li- brary – Greenwood Poplarville Public Library – reduction in the number and Glenn Ellis, is Research orless gas and is the second braries across the state: Central Mississippi Poplarville size of cardiac muscle cells Bioethics Fellow at Harvard leading cause of lung cancer Northern Mississippi B.S. Ricks Public Library – For more information on ra- with aging and an increase in Medical School and author nationwide. More than 20,000 Lee County Public Library – Yazoo City don exposure, visit the MSDH fi brous tissue. Blood vessels of Which Doctor?, and In- Americans die of radon-related Tupelo Eudora Welty Public Library website at www.HealthyMS. reduce in elasticity with age. formation is the Best Medi- lung cancer each year, and radon Starkville/Oktibbeha Public – Jackson com/radon. This is due to a reduced elas- cine. Ellis is an active media causes up to 15 percent of lung Library – Starkville Dekalb County Public Library Follow MSDH by e-mail and tic fi ber content in the wall of contributor on Health Equity cancers worldwide. Carrollton/North Carrollton – Dekalb social media at HealthyMS.com/ the arteries. and Medical Ethics. For more Radon is a radioactive gas Public Library – North Carroll- Attala County Public Library connect. One of the conditions that good health information visit: found in nature. Its source is ton – Kosciusko is prominent in the aging www.glennellis.com CLASSIFIED

14 • THE MISSISSIPPI LINK FEBRUARY 13 - 19, 2020 www.mississippilink.com

LEGAL LEGAL LEGAL

Electronic Advertisement for Bid DEPARTMENT OF FINANCE AND ADMINISTRATION NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING Bid 3121 High Schools Science Lab Renovations BUREAU OF BUILDING, GROUNDS AND CITY OF JACKSON, MISSISSIPPI REAL PROPERTY MANAGEMENT SIGN VARIANCE FOR ELIZABETH CLAIR’S Sealed, written formal bid proposals for the above bids will be received by JACKSON, MISSISSIPPI the Board of Trustees of the Jackson Public School District, in the Business THE JACKSON CITY COUNCIL WILL CONDUCT A PUBLIC HEARING Offi ce, 662 South President Street, Jackson, Mississippi, until 2:00 P.M. ADVERTISEMENT FOR BIDS ON THE SIGN VARIANCE FOR ELIZABETH CLAIR’S TO RECEIVE (Local Prevailing Time) March 17, 2020, at which time and place they will CITIZEN INPUT HAS BEEN SCHEDULED FOR TUESDAY, FEBRUARY be publicly opened and read aloud. A Pre-Bid Conference concerning the Sealed bids will be received at the Bureau of Building, Grounds and Real 4, 2020 AT 10:00 A.M. IN COUNCIL CHAMBERS AT THE CITY HALL project JPS High Schools Science Lab Renovations will be held at Jim Hill Property Management, 501 North West Street, Suite 1401 B, Jackson, BUILDING, 219 SOUTH PRESIDENT STREET, JACKSON, MS, 39201. High School, 2185 Fortune Street, Jackson, MS 39204 on February 28, Mississippi, 39201, until 2:00:00 p.m. on Tuesday, 03/17/2020 , for: INTERESTED CITIZENS ARE ENCOURAGED TO ATTEND. PLEASE 2020 at 1:30 P.M. Attendance at the pre-bid conference is not mandatory but CONTACT THE SIGNS & LICENSE DIVISION (601) 960-1154 FOR MORE strongly encouraged. The Board of Trustees reserves the right to reject any RE: GS# 323-016 Water & Wastewater Improvements INFORMATION. and all bids, to waive informalities, and to withhold the acceptance of any bid South Mississippi Correctional Institution if approved for forty-fi ve calendar days from the date bids are opened. RFx #: 3160003443 2-6-2020, 2-13-2020

Plan holders are required to register and order bid documents at www. at which time they will be publicly opened and read. Contract documents may jpsdmsprojects.com. A $500.00 Non-refundable deposit shall be required be obtained from: on each printed set of bid specs/documents. A $100.00 Nonrefundable LEGAL deposit shall be required on each digital PDF set of bid specs/documents. Professional: Mid-South Consulting, Inc. Documents must be purchased through the website. All plan holders are Address: Post offi ce Box 349 NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING required to have a valid email address for registration. Questions regarding Florence, Mississippi 39073 CITY OF JACKSON, MISSISSIPPI website registration and online orders, please contact Plan House Printing, Phone: 662-397-6959 SIGN VARIANCE FOR DISTRICT DRUGS 607 W. Main Street, Tupelo, MS 38804, (662) 407-0193. Questions regarding Email: [email protected] bid documents please contact John Murray at Canizaro Cawthon Davis, THE JACKSON CITY COUNCIL WILL CONDUCT A PUBLIC HEARING Phone: 601-948-7337 or Email: [email protected]. A deposit of $150.00 is required. Bid preparation will be in accordance with ON THE SIGN VARIANCE FOR DISTRICT DRUGS TO RECEIVE Instructions to Bidders bound in the project manual. The Bureau of Building, CITIZEN INPUT HAS BEEN SCHEDULED FOR TUESDAY, FEBRUARY 2-13-2020, 2-20-2020 Grounds and Real Property Management reserves the right to waive 4, 2020 AT 10:00 A.M. IN COUNCIL CHAMBERS AT THE CITY HALL irregularities and to reject any or all bids. NOTE: Telephones and desks will BUILDING, 219 SOUTH PRESIDENT STREET, JACKSON, MS, 39201. not be available for bidders use at the bid site. INTERESTED CITIZENS ARE ENCOURAGED TO ATTEND. PLEASE LEGAL CONTACT THE SIGNS & LICENSE DIVISION (601) 960-1154 FOR Calvin R. Sibley, Bureau Director MORE INFORMATION. Bureau of Building, Grounds and Real Property Management Advertisement for Electronic Bids 2-6-2020, 2-13-2020 2-13-2020, 2-20-2020 Bid 3119 Career Development Center Door Replacement Project Bid 3120 Career Development Center Restroom Renovations LEGAL LEGAL Sealed, written formal bid proposals for the above bids will be received by the Board of Trustees of the Jackson Public School District, in the Business Offi ce, 662 South President Street, Jackson, Mississippi, until 2:00 P.M. (Local DEPARTMENT OF FINANCE AND ADMINISTRATION Advertisement Prevailing Time) March 3, 2020, at which time and place they will be publicly BUREAU OF BUILDING, GROUNDS AND REQUEST FOR PROPOSALS (RFP) opened and read aloud. A Pre-Bid Conference concerning the project for REAL PROPERTY MANAGEMENT HOUSEHOLD HAZARDOUS WASTE COLLECTION SERVICES Career Development Center Door Replacements and Restroom Renovations JACKSON, MISSISSIPPI will be held at Career Development Center, 2703 First Avenue, Jackson, MS The City of Jackson, Mississippi (“City of Jackson”) is soliciting proposals on February 19, 2020 at 1:30 P.M. Attendance at the pre-bid conference is ADVERTISEMENT FOR BIDS from qualifi ed proposers to perform household hazardous waste collection mandatory. The Board of Trustees reserves the right to reject any and all bids, services at the Environmental Service Center (ESC), which include proper to waive informalities, and to withhold the acceptance of any bid if approved Sealed bids will be received at the Bureau of Building, Grounds and Real handling, transporting, disposing of, and recycling of household hazardous for forty-fi ve calendar days from the date bids are opened. Property Management, 501 North West Street, Suite 1401 B, Jackson, wastes. Mississippi, 39201, until 2:00:00 p.m. on Tuesday, 03/17/2020, for: Plan holders are required to register and order bid documents at www. Proposals will be received by the City of Jackson at the offi ce of the City jpsdmsprojects.com. A $150.00 Non-refundable deposit shall be required on RE: GS# 350-023 New Jefferson Lot Clerk, City Hall, 219 South President Street, Jackson, Mississippi 39201, each set of bid specs/documents and must be purchased through the website. Offi ce of Capitol Facilities until 3:30 P.M. CST, February 25, 2020. All plan holders are required to have a valid email address for registration. (Department of Finance and Administration) Questions regarding website registration and online orders, please contact RFx #: 3160003452 Selection of a Service Provider for contract/agreement negotiation will Plan House Printing, 607 W. Main Street, Tupelo, MS 38804, (662) 407-0193. be based on an objective evaluation of the following criteria: A. Service Questions regarding bid documents please contact Krystal Lamm at Duvall at which time they will be publicly opened and read. Contract documents may Provider’s innovative approach B. Service Provider’s experience, Decker Architects, Phone: 601-713-1128 or Email: [email protected]. be obtained from: qualifi cations and references as demonstrated in similar engagements C. Expertise of key personnel to be assigned to the contract D. EBO Plan 2-6-2020, 2-13-2020 Professional: Burris/Wagnon Architects, P.A. and commitment to maximizing MBE and FBE participation goals E. Cost Address: 500L East Woodrow Wilson Avenue proposal Jackson, Mississippi 39216 LEGAL Phone: 601-969-7543 The City of Jackson is committed to the principle of non-discrimination in Email: [email protected] public contracting. It is the policy of the City of Jackson to promote full and equal business opportunity for all persons doing business with the City. As Advertisement for RFQ A deposit of $50.00 is required. Bid preparation will be in accordance with a pre-condition to selection, each contractor, bidder or offeror shall submit RFQ 2020-01 Architectural/Engineering Design Services Instructions to Bidders bound in the project manual. The Bureau of Building, a completed and signed Equal Business Opportunity (EBO) Plan, with the Grounds and Real Property Management reserves the right to waive bid submission, in accordance with the provision of the City of Jackson’s Sealed, written formal rfq proposals for the above rfq will be received by irregularities and to reject any or all bids. NOTE: Telephones and desks will Equal Business Opportunity (EBO) Executive Order. Failure to comply the Board of Trustees of the Jackson Public School District, in the Business not be available for bidders use at the bid site. with the City’s EBO Executive Order shall disqualify a contractor, bidder, Offi ce, 662 South President Street, Jackson, Mississippi, until 10:00 A.M. or offeror from being awarded an eligible contract. For more information (Local Prevailing Time) February 20 2020, at which time and place they Calvin R. Sibley, Bureau Director on the City of Jackson’s Equal Business Opportunity Program, please will be publicly opened and read aloud. Jackson Public Schools will hold a Bureau of Building, Grounds and Real Property Management contact the Offi ce of Economic Development at 601-960-1055. Copies of Pre-Submission Conference at 2:00 p.m. CST on February 10, 2020 in the the Executive Order, EBO Plan Applications and a copy of the program Jackson Public School Board of Trustees Board Room at 621 S. State Street, 2-13-2020, 2-20-2020 are available at 200 South President Street, Room 223, Hood Building, Jackson, MS 39201. Attendance at the Pre-Conference is mandatory for all Jackson, Mississippi. those submitting Statement of Qualifi cations as a Prime Consultant for the services. The Board of Trustees reserves the right to reject any and all rfqs, to LEGAL The City of Jackson, Mississippi (“City of Jackson’) is committed to waive informalities, and to withhold the acceptance of any rfq if approved for cultivating and ensuring the quality of life of its citizens, through various forty-fi ve calendar days from the date rfqs are opened. programs, employment, initiatives, and assistance. The City encourages Advertisement for Bids all persons, corporations, and/or entities doing business within the City, as Proposal forms and detailed specifi cations may be obtained free of charge by well as those who seek to contract with the City on various projects and/ emailing [email protected], calling (601) 960-8799, or documents Sealed bids will be received by the City Clerk of Jackson, Mississippi, at 219 or conduct business in the City to assist the City in achieving its goal by may be picked up at the above address or downloaded from JPS website at S. President Street, Jackson, Mississippi 39201 or at Post Offi ce Box 17, strongly considering City residents for employment opportunities. www.jackson.k12.ms.us Jackson, Mississippi 39205 until 3:30 PM, local time, Tuesday, March 17, 2020, at which time they will be publicly opened and read aloud for: The City of Jackson hereby notifi es all bidders that in compliance with Title 2-6-2020, 2-13-2020 VI of the Civil Rights Act of 1964, as amended, 42 U.S.C. 2000d to 2000d- The demolition and cleaning of parcels for the following: 4 that all bidders will be afforded full opportunity to submit bids in response 1. 1833 WALTHAM ST. to this invitation and will not be discriminated against on the grounds of 2. 1720 CAMELLIA DR. race, color, national origin, sex, or disability in consideration for an award. 3. 2611 TERRY RD. 4. 614 MCDOWELL RD. Proposals (one signed original plus fi ve copies) and the EBO plan (one 5. 1071 MCDOWELL RD. signed original plus fi ve copies included in the proposal) shall be submitted in a sealed package and plainly marked on the outside of the package. The City of Jackson, Mississippi (“City of Jackson”) is committed to cultivating “Proposal for Household Hazardous Waste Collection Services”. and ensuring the quality of life of its citizens, through various programs, employment, initiatives, and assistance. The City encourages all persons, Proposals must be submitted to the Offi ce of the City Clerk, 219 South corporations, and/or entities doing business within the City, as well as those President Street, Jackson, MS 39205 by 3:30 p.m., local time, on Tuesday, who seek to contract with the City on various projects and or conduct business February 25, 2020. in the City, to assist the City in achieving its goal by strongly considering City residents for employment opportunities. Interested fi rms may obtain a copy of the detailed Request for Proposals at no charge from the City’s Website at http://wwwiacksonms.gov/bids or The City of Jackson is committed to the principle of non-discrimination in from: public contracting. It is the policy of the City of Jackson to promote full and equal business opportunity for all persons doing business with the City. As Lakesha Weathers, Solid Waste Manager a pre-condition to selection, each contractor, bidder or offeror shall submit City of Jackson a completed and signed Equal Business Opportunity (EBO) Plan, with the Department of Public Works bid submission, in accordance with the provisions of the City of Jackson’s Warren Hood Building Equal Business Opportunity (EBO) Ordinance. Failure to comply with the 200 South President Street City’s Ordinance shall disqualify a contractor, bidder or offeror from being Jackson, MS 39201 awarded an eligible contract. For more information on the City of Jackson’s [email protected] Equal Business Opportunity Program, please contact the Offi ce of Economic Development at 601-960-1055. Copies of the ordinance, EBO Plan Robert Miller, Director Applications and a copy of the program are available at 200 South President Department of Public Works Street, Room 223, Hood Building, Jackson, Mississippi. 2-6-2020, 2-13-2020 The City of Jackson hereby notifi es all bidders that in compliance with Title VI of the Civil Rights Act of 1964, as amended, 42 U.S.C. 2000d to 2000d-4 that all bidders will be afforded full opportunity to submit bids in response to this invitation and will not be discriminated against on the grounds of race, color, LEGAL national origin, sex, or disability in consideration for an award.

Contract Documents may be obtained from and/or examined at the offi ces Notice of Sale of the Community Improvement Division located at 200 S. President Street, Abandoned Vehicle Suite 331, Jackson, Mississippi 39201. Telephone 601.960.1054. Prospective bidders may obtain copies of all materials required for bidding purposes. There Notice of Sale is hereby given in accordance with the Mississippi Statutes is NO charge for electronic or e-mail copies. Offi cial bid documents can be governing the sale of abandoned motor vehicles that the following vehicle will downloaded from Central Bidding at www.centralbidding.com. Electronic bids be sold for repair and storage charges and for cost of this sale. can be submitted at www.centralbidding.com. For any questions relating to 2015 CHEV 4- Door - Vin# 1G11B5SL5FF271380 the electronic bidding process, please call Central Bidding at 225-810-4814. Registered to Bowles Alvin GM Financial, Lien Holder Bid preparation will be in accordance with the Instructions to Bidders. The Date of Sale: March 4, 2020 City reserves the right to reject any and all bids and to waive any and all Place of Sale: Archie Towing Services; 6700 Medgar Evers Blvd., Jackson, irregularities in respect to any bid submitted or to accept any proposal which MS 39213 is deemed most favorable to the City of Jackson. Sellers reserve the right to bid on the above property and to reject any and all bids. Time: 10:00 A.M. by: LaTonya Miller, Manager Community Improvement Division of Planning and Development 2/13/20, 2/20/20, 02/27/20

2-13-2020, 2-20-2020 www.mississippilink.com FEBRUARY 13 - 19, 2020 THE MISSISSIPPI LINK • 15

P ICK UP THE MISSISSIPPI LINK AT THE FOLLOWING LOCATIONS:

JACKSON SPORTS MEDICINE VOWELL’S MARKET PLACE BULLY’S RESTAURANT Fortifi cation and I-55 5777 Terry Road 3118 Livingston Road MURPHY USA CITY HALL CASH & CARRY 6394 Ridgewood Rd (North Jackson) Terry Road Capitol Street and Monument Street REVELL ACE HARDWARE CLINTON CITY HALL Terry Rd (South Jackson) DOLLAR GENERAL 219 S President St WALGREENS 807 Berkshire St - Clinton, MS GARRETT OFFICE COMPLEX 380 W. Woodrow Wilson Ave 2659 Livingston Road TERRY CANTON DOLLAR GENERAL A & I SERVICE STATION 3957 Northview Dr (North Jackson) 716 Roby Street - Canton, MS at Exit 78 DOLLAR GENERAL B & B CITY HALL 2030 N Siwell Rd 702 West North Street - Canton, MS West Cunningham Avenue DOLLAR GENERAL BOUTIQUE STORE 4331 Highway 80W RAYMOND 3355 North Liberty - Canton, MS HINDS COMMUNITY COLLEGE DOLLAR GENERAL BULLY’S STORE WELCOME CENTER 5990 Medgar Evers Blvd Church Street - Canton, MS 505 E. Main Street DOLLAR GENERAL COMMUNITY MART SUNFLOWER GROCERY 1214 Capitol St (Downtown Jackson) 743 Ruby Street - Canton, MS 122 Old Port Gibson Street, DOLLAR GENERAL FRYER LANE GROCERY Raymond, MS 304 Briarwood Dr Martin Luther King Drive - Canton, MS DOLLAR GENERAL LOVE FOOD MART HAMLIN FLORAL DESIGN 120 E. Main Street, 2855 McDowell Rd 285 Peace Street - Canton, MS DOLLAR GENERAL Raymond, MS JOE’S SANDWICH & GROCERY RAYMOND PUBLIC LIBRARY 104 Terry Rd 507 Church Street - Canton, MS J & A FUEL STORES 126 W. Court Street, Raymond, MS K & K ONE STOP RAYMOND CITY HALL 3249 Medgar Evers Blvd. 110 West Fulton Street - Canton, MS LIBERTY BANK AND TRUST 110 Courtyard Square, Raymond LACY’S INSURANCE RAYMOND COURTHOUSE 2325 Livingston Rd. 421 Peace Street - Canton, MS MCDADE’S MARKET SOUL SET BARBER SHOP UTICA Northside Drive 257 Peace Street - Canton, MS HUBBARD’S TRUCK STOP MCDADE’S MARKET #2 TRAILER PARK GROCERY Mississippi Hwy 18 653 Duling Avenue 22 Westside Drive - Canton, MS PITT STOP PICADILLY CAFETERIA 101 Hwy 18 & 27 Jackson Medical Mall BYRAM BOLTON 350 W Woodrow Wilson Avenue DOLLAR GENERAL BOLTON LIBRARY SHELL FOOD MART 125 Swinging Bridge Dr. BOLTON CITY HALL 5492 Watkins Drive HAVIOR’S AUTO CARE 5495 I-55 South Frontage Road 16 • THE MISSISSIPPI LINK FEBRUARY 13 - 19, 2020 www.mississippilink.com CSLC Merdis A. Anderson Scholarship Awards Banquet Lexington, MS • January 25, 2020 PHOTOS BY GAIL BROWN www.mississippilink.com FEBRUARY 13 - 19, 2020 THE MISSISSIPPI LINK • 17 BOOK REVIEW: DRIVING

BYWHILE GRETCHEN SORIN BLACK C.2020, LIVERIGHT $28.95 / $38.95 CANADA • 352 PAGES

By Terri Schlichenmeyer black folks, the automobile has After the Civil War ended, most anywhere – but it could also today, once again, DWB comes this seems like old news, it’s not: Columnist “meant something different” – former slaves began to head mean danger, if you accidentally with a whole different set of dan- Sorin also shows us things we Seat belts on. Keys in the ig- mainly, “the automobile made it north for work and to escape Jim went where you weren’t wel- gers. don’t often consider, including nition, rear view mirror’s been more diffi cult… to enforce racial Crow laws, a Great Migration come. Here it’s not even spring, and tales of black musicians’ reliance adjusted, steering wheel is set for apartheid while cruising along that didn’t preclude the occa- On the other hand, you could you already know where you’re on freer travel, how sports were maximum comfort. You’re ready the highways at forty-fi ve miles sional trip back South by rail or sleep in the car, depending on the going on vacation this year. If changed by fewer restrictions, to go, ready for this trip to get per hour.” by bus to visit friends and rela- kind you bought; some vehicles you haven’t packed a book yet, and how black drivers acciden- started. Once was a time that black tives. There was still segregation were faster, and could outrun “Driving While Black” is the tally taught white business own- In “Driving While Black” by people couldn’t travel far, if at in travel but the bigger fact was violence; others meant fewer fi ll- right one to take. ers a lesson or two. Gretchen Sorin, you’re heading all. Moving about from planta- that travel itself was no longer ups. Restroom stops, if you were You won’t be sorry if you trav- Sorin even adds personal an- back in history. tion to plantation allowed oppor- restricted. black, were still an issue. el with this travel-history book. ecdotes to the openings of her Few things in America have tunities for slaves to escape or, Starting around the 1920s, By the 1970s, Sorin says, this Sorin’s all-encompassing in her chapters, making “Driving While altered the cultural scene more at the very least, to learn the lay automobile ownership began to was all mostly a moot point. information, beginning with Black” a great vacation (or any- than the automobile. Not only of the land, neither of which was be a possibility for mobile (and The Civil Rights Movement had slavery and moving at a good time) read. If you’re needing a has it changed the way we move, desirable for a slave owner. Even upwardly-mobile) African Amer- changed the country, and segre- clip into the twentieth century smart, comprehensive look at it affected the way we dress, free blacks were restricted from icans. This meant even more gation at hotels and gas stations with, like any decent roadtrip, a the history of travel, grab it and talk and eat. But, says Sorin, for too much movement then. freedom – a road could lead al- was a thing of the past. And yet few side-stops along the way. If buckle up.

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www.mississippilink.com FEBRUARY 13 - 19, 2020 THE MISSISSIPPI LINK • 19 Zeta Phi Beta and Phi Beta Sigma’s joint Founders’ Day weekend PHOTOS BY ANITA YOUNG The Mississippi Link Newswire their Joint Founders’ Day week- cated in Jackson, MS. In celebration of 100 years end. Some of the special guest in- of Scholarship, Service, Sister- This celebration began Fri- cluded the Mississippi State Di- hood and Finer Womanhood of day, January 24, with a Blue and rector of Zeta Phi Beta Sorority, Zeta Phi Beta Sorority, Incorpo- White fellowship followed by a Incorporated, Kenya L. Wash- rated and 106 years of Brother- joint community service project ington and the Mississippi State hood, Scholarship and Service at the Stewpot of Jackson, MS, Director of Phi Beta Sigma Fra- of Phi Beta Sigma Fraternity, Saturday morning, January 25. ternity, Incorporated, Mark A. Incorporated, the Jackson Met- The Blue and White family of Young Sr. as well as community ro area graduate chapters – Al- the Jackson Metro area donated partners and elected offi cials. pha Delta Zeta (Jackson), Tau nearly 2,000 non-perishable The room was fi lled with over Upsilon Zeta (Clinton), Mu items and canned goods. Mem- 200+ members of the Blue and Sigma (Jackson), Rho Iota Zeta bers of the sorority and frater- White family. (Mendenhall), Omega Tau Zeta nity also sorted and packed the Unifi ed as one, both Zeta Phi (Brandon), Tau Phi Zeta (Can- shelves with the items donated. Beta Sorority, Incorporated and ton) – along with the collegiate The culminating event, the Phi Beta Sigma Fraternity, In- chapters – Lambda Beta (JSU), annual Joint National Founders’ corporated were proud to con- Nu Beta (Tougaloo), Alpha Day Celebration, took place on tinue the legacy of their found- Beta (JSU), Beta Rho (Touga- Saturday evening. The tribute ers through the commitment of loo) – were excited to celebrate was held at Fondren Hall lo- service to others. 20 • THE MISSISSIPPI LINK FEBRUARY 13 - 19, 2020 www.mississippilink.com