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SEPTEMBER 23 - SEPTEMBER 29, 2017 VOLUME 67, NUMBER 24 $1.00

State Attorney Nelson same as Corey in major police killing case Prosecutor determined death of Bing justifi ed by JSO offi cer Landreville By OPIO SOKONI The Florida/Georgia Star

State Attorney Melissa Nelson is turning out to be no different than former State Attorney Angela Corey when it comes to prosecuting Offi cers that kill black citizens. This week, her offi ce In Arlington, this home sustained extensive damage from Irma. (Photo by Denise Williams) determined that the killing of unarmed black man Vernell Bing by offi cer Tyler Landreville was justifi ed. Bing was in a car chase where his vehicle hit a wall From Hurricane Irma’s Fury and came to a complete stop. Bing exited the vehicle injured and was limping away By DENISE WILLIAMS Irma’s intensity slowed to a category when Landreville sent bullets fl ying into The Florida/Georgia Star 2 before leaving the state of Florida, the streets where children were playing Irma touched every city and county. nearby on 9th and Liberty Streets. Bing urricane Irma ravaged Irma left communities decimated was struck in the head and died. Based on the state of Florida with massive structural damage, loss a major Supreme Court case, JSO offi cer beginning Sunday, of power and fl ooding. I the was Landreville was not justifi ed. September 10th at second most powerful system only to In Tennessee v. Garner, 471 U.S. 1 9:10H am. Although the storm was hurricane Katrina in 2005 and the fi rst (1985), the U.S. Supreme Court held that its strongest as a category 5, it major hurricane to hit Florida since when a law enforcement offi cer is pursuing made landfall in Cudjoe Key, FL as Wilma in 2005. a fl eeing suspect, he or she may not use a category 4 system. Irma’s reach Even before this storm touched deadly force to prevent escape unless “the The garage of this home on the Northside suffered severe was wide as it covered 500 miles in the shores of Florida, it caused damage from the storm. The home of this family and its width yet the state of Florida is 140 Please see Case, page 6 occupants were ok. (Photo by Denise Williams) miles at its widest point. Although Please see Irma, page 6 Georgia residents Powerful Earthquake strikes Mexico affected by Irma may A powerful earthquake shook central Mexico on Tues- day, collapsing buildings in plumes of dust and killing register for FEMA more than 150 people. Thousands fl ed into the streets in panic, and many stayed to help rescue those trapped. Dozens of buildings tumbled into mounds of rubble ATLANTA – Survivors with losses due to Hurricane or were severely damaged in densely populated parts SEPT. 19, 2017 Irma in Camden, Chatham and Glynn counties may now of Mexico City and nearby states. Mayor Miguel Angel MAGNITUDE 7.1 register for disaster assistance from the Federal Emergency Mancera said buildings fell at 44 places in the capital Management Agency, according to state and federal alone as high-rises across the city swayed sickeningly. offi cials. Hours after the magnitude 7.1 quake, rescue workers SEPT. 19, 1985 Individuals can register online at www.DisasterAssistance. were still clawing through the wreckage of a primary MAGNITUDE 8.0 gov or through the FEMA App. school that partly collapsed in the city’s south looking Another option for individuals, including those who use for any children who might be trapped. 711 relay or VRS, is to call 800-621-FEMA (3362) while SEPT. 7, 2017 The quake is the deadliest in Mexico since a 1985 MAGNITUDE 8.1 those who use TTY can call 800-462-7585. The toll-free quake on the same date killed thousands. It came less telephone numbers will operate from 7 a.m. to 11 p.m., than two weeks after another powerful quake caused 90 seven days a week until further notice. deaths in the country’s south.

Editorial...... 1 Wish to give us a News Story? I Looking for customers to patronize your Church...... 2 Call (904) 766-8834 or Send it to: N Youth News...... 3 business or utilize your services? If you Community...... 10 answered YES, then you need to place an info@thefl oridastar.com S Columns...... 10 ad in The Florida or Georgia Star! CALL I Local-Florida...... 7 ad@thefl oridastar.com Sports...... 8 904-766-8834 to place your ad TODAY!! D Local-Georgia...... 9 Classified...... 11 Check, Money Order, E Business...... 12 Or Credit Cards Accepted PAGE 2 THE STAR SEPTEMBER 23, 2017 Faith In Our Community Listings are due the Tuesday before the next issue. Email submissions preferred. Send to: [email protected] The Church Directory Charles Jenkins & Fellowship “Come and Worship With Us” Chicago Make Donation To OBITUARY GREATER EL-BETHEL DIVINE HOLINESS CHURCH Florida & Georgia “The Church Where Everybody Is Somebody” Hurricane Harvey Survivors Bernie Casey, best Bishop Lorenzo Hall., Pastor known for his scene-stealing role 723 W. 4th St. Jacksonville, Florida 32209 in Revenge of the Mailing Address: P.O. Box 3575 Nerds and as the Jacksonville, Florida 32206 star of I’m Gonna Telephone: (904) 359-0661 Git You Sucka, Home: (904) 358-8932 Cell: 710-1586 has died at the age of 78. The actor’s Sunday School...... 9:30 a.m. rep confirmed that Morning Worship...... 11:00 a.m. he died peacefully Tuesday...... Prayer Meeting & Bible Study,7:00 p.m. in a Los Angeles Thursday...... Joy Night,7:00 p.m. hospital Tuesday, surrounded by loved Email: [email protected] Bernie Casey ones. blackrefer.com Website: Greaterelbethel.org Come join Bishop Dr. Lorenzo Hall, Sr. every Wednesday and Thursday Charles Jenkins & Fellowship Chicago Share God’s Grace With from 12:00 Noon to 1:00 PM for Prayer Meeting and Bible Study Hurricane Harvey Survivors; Giving A $10,000 Donation To HD Cares Relief Organization.

Greater Macedonia Baptist inger, songwriter and producer other great artists to perform in Houston SCharles Jenkins is always looking for New Light Christian Center’s Church of the Northside for ways to help people. This past Hurricane Harvey Relief Concert to weekend Jenkins and his Fellowship raise money to help those displaced by Chicago congregation donated $10,000 the devastating storm. “The Hilliard’s Senior Pastor to Higher Dimension Church’s HD and The Light are helping people and Dr. Landon L. Williams, Sr. Cares Hurricane Harvey Initiative meeting needs everyday so it was a that benefits the Houston hurricane blessing to support their effort to raise Mr. Nathaniel Mrs. Carletha Jenkins recovery. funds” says Jenkins. Anthony Kearse November 12, 1944 ~ “I hope everyone is inspired to do In the meantime, Jenkins’ latest December 31, 1965 ~ September 11, 2017 something, whether it’s great or small it recording with Fellowship Chicago ft. September 16, 2017 (age 72) all counts” says Jenkins. “Our brothers Le’Andria, “Grace” (Inspired People/ (age 51) and sisters are in need, so this is the Empire), is resonating around the world time for the church to step up and be and serves as an inspiring message to visible as the survivors rebuild not only all who are touched by the devastation their homes but also their lives. Pastor of a particularly busy hurricane season. Terrance Johnson and HD Cares is “By faith, my future is bright,” the doing a tremendous work in Houston ensemble sings. “He’s brought me from and we just wanted to be a part of their a mighty long way. I walk by faith and good work.” Pastor Johnson responded not by sight oh yeah, that’s how I made saying, “It’s all about rebuilding now it where I am today.” The soulful song and we are grateful for the support of sits at No. 6 on this week’s Billboard people like Pastor Jenkins and others Gospel Airplay chart and No. 4 on the who will step up because the need is so Mediabase Gospel Airplay chart. Ms. Juanita Emily Ms. Maria Tirow Located At great. It’s going to take years to recover For more information on HD Cares, Jones Patrick January 12, 1944 ~ March 28, 1974 ~ 1880 W. Edgewood Ave. so we need the ongoing help for the view https://youtu.be/8iS7yF1_okw or families in need.” log on at hdcares.org for details on the September 6, 2017 (age September 10, 2017 Jacksonvile, FL 32208. 73) (age 43) Additionally, Charles & Fellowship organization and ways to give to the Phone: (904) 764-9257 Fax: (904) 768-1736 Chicago also donated their time joining cause. www.gmbc.net AARP launches Faith-Based Initiative Tool Kit for African-American Clergy and Lay Leaders New Bethlehem Missionary Baptist Church New online tool kit provides guidelines and resources for faith-based 1824 Prospect Street * Jacksonville, FL 32208 organizations looking to reach older Americans

Sunday School …...... …9:30 a.m. SUNDAY MORNING Intercessory Prayer ...... 10:45 a.m. Morning Worship ...... 11:00 a.m. YOUTH CHURCH 2nd & 3rd Sundays (Old Sanctuary) Tuesday - Pastoral Bible Study .....7:00 p.m. Rev. Dr. Marion A. Wise, Senior Pastor Rev. Joe Calhoun, Pastor Emeritus (904) 764-5727 – Church SAINT GABRIEL’S EPISCOPAL CHURCH WILL CELEBRATE Email: [email protected] * Web: newbethlehemmb.com OUR PATRONAL FEAST CELEBRATION ON SUNDAY OCTOBER 1, 2017 @ 10:00 A.M Holy Tabernacle Church Anniversary ARP announced today the to stay involved as they age, and this Pastor Paul R. Cardona and Bishop R. L. Jones Arelease of their first African- toolkit can serve as a framework to help OUR THEME FOR THIS OCCASION IS It’s that time again! American/Black Faith-Based Initiative refresh ministries that cater to older “ORDER MY STEPS IN THY WORD”. WHAT: Holy Tabernacle’s 70Th Church Anniversary Tool Kit. This self-service tool kit members.” WHERE: 6416 Miriam Street, was created by AARP experts in “The ultimate goal of the Faith- PLEASE JOIN US FOR THIS Jacksonville, FL 32219 collaboration with faith leaders from Based Initiative Tool Kit is to assist SPIRITFILLED SERVICE across the nation as a resource to aid in clergy in building and enhancing their WHEN: September 23-24, 2017 addressing the unique issues that affect ministries by helping to educate their TIME: 11:00 am many African-Americans aged 50+ in 50-plus parishioners on various topics SPECIAL GUEST SPEAKER: the faith-based community. from Medicare and Social Security Pastor Calvin A. Levy (Tampa, FL) “From our conversations with a to digital literacy and healthy aging,” FURTHER INFO CALL: Evg. Pondeleia Williams: number of faith leaders from the Williams said. 904-729-7792 or HTC at 904-764-3754. Conference of National Black Churches, The tool kit is divided into four issue we learned they overwhelmingly felt sections: that there were not enough resources Key Learnings: Data and statistics provided to older African-Americans about African-Americans in the United in their congregations on issues that States and lists tips for organizing and mattered to them in the 21st century,” sustaining an effective ministry. said Edna Kane Williams, Senior Vice Your Health: Information about President of Multicultural Leadership adopting a healthy lifestyle, care giving at AARP. and an in-depth guide to understanding According to a 2016 AARP survey, Medicare and Medicaid. 80 percent of African-American adults Your Wealth: Resources designed age 50 and older were involved in to help older adults understand their religious or spiritual activities. The finances. This section covers everything African-American/Black Faith-Based from keeping a competitive edge in Initiative Tool Kit was designed to the workplace to understanding Social harness this aspect of the African- Security benefits. American cultural experience. The Your Life: Solutions for adopting survey also implied that as adults aged, a healthy perspective about aging they became less involved in religious/ and navigating life’s transitions. Also spiritual activities. The new tool kit includes an index of resources that seeks to help engage those able to stay promote digital literacy and fraud involved. protection. “It was very important for us to be The full African-American/Black involved with this project because we Faith-Based Initiative Tool Kit is noticed our members transitioning from available free online. the choir stand to the sick and shut-in For more information about AARP’s list,” says Jacqueline Burton, President African-American multicultural of the Conference of National Black initiatives, visit AARP Black Churches. “We want our members Community online. www.aarp.org SEPTEMBER 23, 2017 THE STAR PAGE 3 ______More News______

Controversial Libre by Nexus Is Taking on Immigration System. . . And Winning

By Curtis Bunn Urban News Service

ustin Kongueni Matadidi’s first god. This is not real.’ I picked up all three is Libre’s chief risk management officer, Sergio Anselmo, another Libre by days in America were a far cry from of the friends on different days and their refuted that claim. Nexus employee, said he recalls crossing the safe haven he had envisioned reaction was all the same. It has been a “We’ve never sent anybody back the border from Mexico as a small child. when he fled the Congo of Africa, long journey for them.” to jail—or threatened to send anyone He and his family worked in Florida, Jfearing for his life. Padilla sad she nearly was back,” Schneider said. “The reality is that picking oranges and cucumbers before Rather than basking in the glow in tears, too, during the company’s we want them out of the bracelets. That moving to North Carolina. He gained U.S. of a new start, Matadidi was arrested mandatory “pick up” to help the now-free means they have paid it off and are going citizen but one of his brothers did not and by Immigration Custom Enforcement client got settled. “It made me feel proud on with their lives. That’s why we work was deported back to Mexico last year. officials in Florida because of “faulty of what I do,” she said. hard to help clients in any way.” “If we had known about Libre by paperwork,” and detained in jail for six Similar stories have been played Donovan insists his and co- Nexus then, we probably would have had frightening months that, he said, almost out thousands of times by Libre clients. founder Richard Moore’s inspiration for a better outcome,” Anselmo said. “But I broke him. Those who cannot afford bail found Libre the company was forged during their go on my ‘pick ups’ and see people we The inhumanity of jail, the Nexus to be a sort of justice angel that own harrowing jail experience. While in have freed, people I have spoken to on threat of violence and, significantly, bailed them out just when hope had been college, Donovan wrote two checks to a the phone, knowing their story and how the hopelessness of ever being free— all but lost. northern Virginia hotel that were returned. scared they are. This is the perfect way or being sent back to certain death in This action is not without a cost— He ended up being arrested on six felony to help people going through what I went Africa—made it hard to eat or even sleep. or controversy. In three years, Michael charges, including grand larceny and through.” Neither could his two childhood friends Donovan’s company has changed the forgery, among others. Still, the company has many who also escaped a death warrant in landscape of immigration bonding by He spent seven months in jail critics. Some clients have lodged Kinshasa because of their opposition to bonding out around 12,500 people because he was unable to make bail. lawsuits, saying they did not understand the ruling political authority, they said. across the country and requiring them He was freed only after pleading guilty, they were to pay monthly rate for the to wear a GPS tracking device on their effectively killing his dream to become a tracking device and they thought the GPS America was his haven—or so ankle at $120 a week until the bond is lawyer. fee would go toward the bond owed. he thought. He never imagined he would paid off. But the loss of a dream inspired “We are rescuing many from a need to make a $20,000 bail—or have Detractors—and there are another. system that is designed to keep them collateral to serve as credit for bond— many—say the company, which employs Seven months in jail “was my in detainment,“ Schneider said. “Most just to seek the safety of asylum. more than 200 people in 20 locations college,” Donovan said. “(Libre by cases are asylum-seekers. They don’t “(Jail) was scary,” Matadidi across the country, is taking advantage Nexus) is all rooted in my jail experience. have money. They don’t have collateral. recalled through translator Jeanine of a flawed immigration system that They want freedom; that’s why they came Memmbila of the Congo. “Couldn’t sleep I’m trying to save the 19-year-old me. . . to America. We don’t arrest people. We or eat. I had no money. I had no hope. has court cases backed up for months, There needs to be bail reform. Our model give them relief.” I didn’t know what to do. I was running making millions off of those who could is smarter about how we make bail from death in Africa, but if they delivered not afford bail. Donovan said, simply, available. This is not rocket science. The Libre is fighting to protect me back to the people of my country, it that freedom allows the released the GPS system is insurance, but it allows its profile. It is suing BuzzFeed ina would have been my death. So I was opportunity to live and work and pay for our clients to live and work and to not be $5-millon defamation case for reporting, scared everyday at what could happen the tracking device, as opposed to rotting in jail. Mass incarceration is encouraging among other things, that Libre was under to me.” in jail. And he added: “We don’t care jails to destroy people. We’re happy to investigation by ICE. After spending six months in about profit. We believe profit doesn’t help, but horrified that we have to.” While all this is going on, the detainment, from December 2016 have to control the day.” Meanwhile, many of Libre’s company says it has invested hundreds through June 2017, Matadidi learned of Matadidi, 30, who was an employees have experienced jail, of thousands of dollars into a Civil Rights Libre by Nexus, a rural Virginia-based firm engineer in the Congo, said of the GPS are immigrants or are the children of division, housing for felons and pro bono that rapidly has evolved into a powerful— payments: “The money is nothing for the immigrants—factors that the company lawyers to adequately represent clients in and controversial—immigration bond life they saved.” espouses as virtues because they relate court—and other projects that are aimed company. While many have considered Libre to those they help. at giving clients a fair shot at freedom. Libre by Nexus (libre means free as saviors, there are others, especially Julio Rodriguez, a case worker Additionally, Donovan, a former in Spanish) posted the $20,000 bond, traditional bail bond companies, who at Libre in Verona, Virginia who is from lobbyist, hires lobbyists to fight for and Matadidi, who now lives in Atlanta, bemoan the tactics. Some criticize that Honduras, said he fled his country immigration reform—odd for a company and his friends, were freed. And he said the company’s clients often struggle for through El Salvador and Guatemala and that exists because immigration system his world was saved. work, making it a struggle to pay the spent three days in the desert before is faulty. “I had no family (here), no $480 a month for the tracking device. making it across the U.S. border in Texas. “We’ve created a paradigm shift collateral,” he said through Memmbila. There is no interest charge tacked onto That experience gives him in immigration release,” Donovan said. “I cried everyday. Libre came in like a the GPS monitor; clients wear it (and pay sensitivity to the clients he first meets on “People on both sides are the problem. mother. They gave me a new life.” for it) until their bond is satisfied or case the phone as they seek help to get out No one has anything to gain by freeing When he walked out of jail, the cleared. of detainment. “I take the job personally,” people. Jail is dehumanizing. But the first person to greet him was Annette There have been complaints that Rodriguez, 30, said. “I was brought from system promotes warehousing to control Padilla, a Libre Nexus case worker. Libre employees have threatened clients the shadows into the world. So I know large numbers of people. . . We want “Matadidi was in tears,” Padilla recalled. with a return to jail or detention if the what the clients who call us are seeking, immigration reform. We want the problem “(He) came out crying, pinching (his) GPS payments are not made. Erik G. and I can be there for them the way I fixed. We are the disruptors. And we cheeks and saying, basically, ‘Oh, my Schneider, a former bounty hunter who know they need me to be there.” aren’t done yet.” PAGE 4 THE STAR SEPTEMBER 23, 2017 Make Lunchtime Fun Time Black History Spotlight Tips for creating back-to-school lunches By Denise Williams Samuel R. Scottron curtain rod. He was born in molding for rooms (1883), located 98 Monroe Street in Philadelphia, PA in 1841 and the Pole Tip (1886) and the Brooklyn, NY. one of his early occupation Supporting Bracket (1893). Scottron was also an activist was that of a barber. He Scottron was a sutler (a who focused his attention on received his engineering civilian merchant who sells creating an environment of degree from Cooper Union supplies to the military in racial harmony. He was also in 1878. He then began to the field ) for the U.S. 3rd a prolific public speaker who create gadgets that would colored infantry during also wrote articles on race assist society by making it the civil war and later relations. One of his more easier to perform everyday owned retail outlets in both prominent platforms was tasks. Fernandina and Jacksonville, his opposition to the brutal (Family Features) With school back in session, many families Scottron received his FL. Later, he opened a are beginning to focus on smarter eating habits. Packing your conditions of the enslaved in patent on the curtain rod barber shop in Springfield, little learner’s lunch is an easy way to help ensure his or her diet Samuel Raymond Cuba and Puerto Rico. contains enough protein and calcium. on August 20, 1892 (U.S. MA where he patented his Scottron held five patents Patent #481,720). In first invention, the adjustable Scottron wed Anna Maria By letting your kids play a role in planning and packing their Willett in 1863 and the lunches, while tossing in a variety of appealing, fun options, you but most remembered for addition to the curtain rod, window cornice. After can make sure your students are set up for success. inventing the curtain rod. he was granted patents to relocating to Brooklyn, couple parented five children. “For lunches, I like to include mini-foods, like blueberries, four other inventions. His NY he fabricated his other He died in Brooklyn, NY strawberries and Mini Babybel cheese, because there is no prep amuel R. Scottron was improvements to the mirror inventions. He supported on October 14, 1908, at the time needed and they are fun to eat with fingers,” said Amy an inventor and activist were patented in March his family manufacturing age of 67. He was also the Bellgardt, mother of two and founder of the lifestyle blog Mom S great grandfather of world- who lived most of his life in of 1868. He also received products derived from Spark. “When lunchtime is easy and enjoyable, my kids are more patents for the Adjustable these inventions and went renowned singer, Lena likely to eat what we’ve prepared together.” Brooklyn, NY. One of his Window Cornice (1880), on to develop the Scottron Horne who departed this life Bellgardt recommends these tips for creating tasty and fun most noted inventions is the the Cornice/ornamental Manufacturing Company in 2010 at the age of 93. back-to-school lunches. Pick a theme Coming up with daily or even weekly themes based on types of foods can be a great way to tap into your child’s creative side. Maurice William Lee For example, try Taco Tuesday with walking tacos, or send along several foods that are dip-able, like chicken strips and honey permeated the food and son, Lee Jr. and together, mustard, apple slices and honey, or carrots and ranch dressing. utilized wood to add flavor to they received several patents Another fun theme could be Breakfast for Lunch with eggs, mini- the meat. Pressure cookers, for other configurations of pancakes and yogurt. in general, were devices that the pressure cooker-smoker. “I love to make lunchtime more entertaining for my kids by used water or any other water In the 1960’s his device serving them in themed bento boxes,” Bellgardt said. based liquid to cook food in was introduced to citizens Mix it up a sealed pot under pressure residing in Europe. For winning flavor combinations, pack small amounts of many kid-friendly items from different food groups like crackers, carrot to preserve the moisture Little is known about sticks and grapes in colorful bento box-style containers. An option which is often lost through Maurice William Lee, Sr.’s such as Mini Babybel cheese, a 100 percent real cheese with conventional preparation. early life however, it is known a rich and creamy taste, can be paired with colorful fruits and Pressure cooking also he was born July 18, 1903. At vegetables – as well as lunchtime staples like sandwiches – to prepares food in less time and the time of his death in 1972, create a balanced and tasty meal. A parent-pleasing choice, each Maurice William Lee, Jr. who became a business partner saves energy. The trapped he was 69 years old and serving of the snack cheese delivers at least 4 grams of protein to his father Lee Sr. Together they received several patents steam elevates the pressure resided in Okfuskee County, and 15 percent of daily calcium needs in 70 calories or less, all in colorful red-wax-wrapped packaging with a signature pull tab. for modified versions of the original Smokaroma within the apparatus, which Oklahoma. According to Let kids help allows the food to absorb the inventors’ late son, Involving children in planning and packing their own lunches aurice William be used as a cold smoker, the condensation producing Lee, Jr. the smokaroma had can be empowering. Place a note on the fridge to remind your kids Lee, Sr. created the aromatic cooker, and more succulent meals. been featured nationally in what should go in their lunchboxes and lend a hand with the more M aromatic pressure cooker/ pressure cooker. Williams’ Maurice William Lee, Life Magazine, Business difficult parts, such as slicing fruit and veggies or sandwich prep. Sr. filed for his patented Week, Ebony Magazine, smoker in 1958 (Patent device had a unique variation Creating a routine with your little ones every night before bed can in November of 1960. He Black Enterprise, The NY save you time in the morning, foster smart eating habits and create US3078783 A). The aromatic from other devices that was granted his patent for Times, and The Wall Street a sense of responsibility. pressure cooker which was were created previously for For more ways to make lunchtime fun, visit mini-babybel.com his invention on February Journal. In addition, he was or find Mini Babybel onFacebook . also called the smokaroma pressure cooking. His cooker 26, 1963. Later in his life, interviewed on CBS News Photo courtesy of Getty Images had three functions. It could used a gas flame which Williams partnered with his with Dan Rather.

Sharing Hope. Spreading Love.

Publix Charities is donating $5 million to the Feeding America® network, other nonprofi ts and schools across the Southeast to help alleviate hunger. Learn more at publixcharities.org/love. SEPTEMBER 23, 2017 THE STAR PAGE 5

A WORD OF THANKS

Another destructive storm, and another reminder

of what a positive difference people can make.

Publix extends heartfelt gratitude to the many

caring, selfless, and generous individuals who make

these tough times easier. Our dedicated associates

and business partners, our exceptional neighbors

and customers: you all remind us that we’re better together.

Some of our stores may have been affected by

the hurricane, but Publix is working hard to get

things back to normal as quickly as possible.

At the same time, we’re coordinating efforts

with local agencies to distribute basic necessities

within our community. We want to reach out

and help, just as so many others have.

Keeping Food Safe During a Power Outage

Items in a full freezer will stay Discard any food with an unusual frozen for about two days with odor, color, or texture. Remember: the door kept closed; in a half- “When in doubt, throw it out.” full freezer, for about one day. For additional information about Refrigerated foods can keep food safety during power outages, for up to four hours. call the toll-free USDA Meat and Poultry Hotline: 1-888-674-6854. Discard any perishable refrigerated foods that have been above 40oF for more than two hours. PAGE 6 THE STAR SEPTEMBER 23, 2017 Hart Bridge will see closure next three weekends in Jacksonville Jacksonville’s Hart Bridge will see closures the next three weekends beginning Friday, September 22 at 7 p.m. until Sunday, September 24 at 6 a.m., again on Friday, September 29 at 7 p.m. until Sunday, October 1 at 6 a.m. and another closure from Friday, October 6 at 7 p.m. until Sunday, October 8 at 6 a.m. The closures are necessary for bridge repairs Hart Bridge, Jacksonville, Florida (Provided photo) This MOBILE gas station on Phillips Hwy & Baymeadows Rd. sustained substantial dam- and improvements. age from Hurricane Irma. (Photo by Denise Williams) Traffic attempting to travel Atlantic Boulevard. the fall of 2017, weather and westbound will be detoured The improvements to the schedule permitting. to Atlantic Boulevard and Hart Bridge include the The Hart Bridge was signs will direct motorists replacement of wire rope, opened in 1967 to relieve Irma coating of structural steel, traffic on the Main Street and Continued from page 1 to the Acosta Bridge then to Broad Street. Motorists drainage work and steel plate Mathews bridges. The bridge catastrophic damage in the attempting to take the Hart rehabilitation. is 3,844 feet long and spans islands. Irma made landfall Bridge eastbound will be Abhe & Svoboda, Inc. was 141 feet above the St. Johns as a category 5 system with detoured to Jefferson Street awarded the $4.3 million River. Approximately 51,500 winds reaching in excess of and signs will direct traffic project. Construction is vehicles travel the bridge 185mph; affecting Barbuda, to the Acosta Bridge and expected to be completed in daily. St. Barthelemy, St. Martin, Anguilla and the U.S. Virgin Islands. This system after the shooting. planted. has taken 101 lives which Police officers enjoy a close As racist monuments are included 44 in the Caribbean Case relationship with prosecutors beginning to come down and 57 in the U.S. as of Continued from page 1 which has created major around the country, police September 19th. problems around the country. killings and racism are in the As the First Coast cleans up Lincoln car dealership on Southside Blvd. & Gate officer has probable cause to Often, when officers are spotlight. Prosecutors doing locally, a massive effort was Pkwy. (Photo by Denise Williams) believe that the suspect poses indicted, judges then step things the old way are being launched to begin removing a significant threat of death in to help killer officers. challenged and removed debris and restoring power Mayor Lenny Curry visited Senator Marco Rubio (R- or serious physical injury Just recently, protestors in from office by decent citizens to homes. JEA CEO Paul various neighborhoods in the FL). The Senators staffers to the officer or others. This St. Louis marched through who understand that there are McElroy said in a statement Jacksonville area. He was were manning booths was decided under the Fourth an upscale mall protesting major issues where officers that JEA has recruited 250 on hand to answer questions from varying agencies Amendment. Use of deadly a racist killing of a black are killing black men, women additional personnel to focus from residents concerning and business to initiate the force to prevent escape is an man. St. Louis cop Stockley and children with impunity. on clearing fallen trees so that their expectations on when FEMA application process. unreasonable seizure under made a racist-laced statement This is one case that will lineman can assess damage power would be back on. The FEMA workers were also the Fourth Amendment. just before killing a black haunt Nelson due to the and ultimately restore Mayor was seen in Arlington, in attendance to meet with The Fraternal Order of man but then said he did attention that it has received services. The utility company the Ribault area on the hurricane victims. Police and other organizations not remember making the from local activists. is working feverishly to Northside and in other areas The continued recovery serve to protect officers and statement or the context. Prosecutors that are using restore power to its’ 280,000 devastated by Irma. from the effects of Hurricane often find language (false The officer received a courage to change the racism customers and has incurred On September 19th, a Irma will be an exhaustive, or otherwise) to fit into the bench trial. Forum shopping in the criminal justice system $30 million dollars directly hurricane relief center tedious process which could narrative that prosecutors for a judge that will rule are being sought by many related to Hurricane Irma. was stationed at the Prime take several years. During need to declare their decision favorably for cops in these more voters than ever before. The power company has also Osborne to assist victims in this very active hurricane to not prosecute officers. types of cases is typical. Another question is, where issued a statement charging recovering from the lethal season, Florida residents The words “I was in fear for Judge Wilson said that the are our black local and state there will not be a rate storm. The one-day Irma are advised to have supplies my life” are the go to language racist statement was made in legislators on these issues? increase or surcharge in the Recovery Assistance Center on hand until the end of the often used by police officers stress. Then the white U.S. More cops is not the answer aftermath of Irma. was implemented by U.S. season. – even when the facts and judge said that just because - neither is trying to work with evidence show the contrary. the dead black man’s DNA police organizations that have Officer Landreville and other was not on the gun and shown racism and disrespect officers were seen laughing the cop’s DNA was does towards the very community that evening immediately not mean that the gun was they serve. St. Johns County Property Appraiser Storm Damage Report St. Johns County, Fl – St. Johns County Please visit www.sjcpa.us/storm-damage- residents whose homes or properties report, call 904-827-5500, or send a detailed sustained damage as a result of Hurricane email to [email protected] to report home or Irma are encouraged to complete a Storm property damage. Damage Report through the Property Once a report is submitted, the Property Appraiser’s Office. The damage reports Appraiser’s Office will schedule a time will provide a County-wide assessment to visit the property and document any to assist in expediting recovery efforts. reported damage. A man and two children wade through a flooded street, after the passing of Hurricane Irma, in Havana, Cuba Sept. 10, 2017. (Photo by REUTERS) Wells Fargo donates $1.1 million for Hurricane Irma relief Wells Fargo announced president. “Wells Fargo is The bank is also proactively it is donating a total of $1.1 committed to working with waiving or refunding fees million to support Hurricane organizations and agencies to for impacted consumers in Irma relief efforts in Florida help our communities recover FEMA declared areas; this and the Caribbean. The and we will determine the includes late fees and debit company’s donation includes best way to support any card over-the counter cash $500,000 to the American additional efforts in the days disbursement fees, and our Red Cross Disaster Relief and weeks ahead.” ATM fees for using non- Fund, $500,000 to local Wells Fargo Customers Wells Fargo ATMs. Wells nonprofits focused on relief Impacted by Hurricane Fargo will also deploy efforts in the immediate Irma mobile ATMs as soon as it future, and $100,000 to Wells Fargo will provide is safe and feasible to do International Medical Corps payment relief for the next so. The company will share as that organization engages 90 days on credit cards, location information at the in relief efforts in the student loans, auto loans, time of deployment. Caribbean. Wells Fargo will home mortgage, home equity After 90 days, customers Donald Glover is first black director continue to monitor Irma’s and retail small business who are still experiencing impact as the now tropical loans and lines of credit in hardships should contact to win an Emmy in comedy storm makes landfall in other FEMA declared areas. There customer service to discuss states to determine how the will be no negative credit additional relief options. company may assist there. reporting for those customers On Sunday, Donald Glover won his first Emmy at the 2017 Emmys and made history in the Specific information “Our thoughts and prayers who receive payment relief. process. are with everyone in Florida Impacted customers who regarding how customers With his award for outstanding directing for a comedy series for his show Atlanta, he is the and the Caribbean who has are not in a FEMA declared should go about working first black star to win in that category. endured Hurricane Irma and area are also able to receive with Wells Fargo on “Man. Yo, first I want to thank the great algorithm that put us all here,” Glover said in his its destruction,” said Tim similar benefits by contacting disaster assistance follows acceptance speech. “I want to thank my parents who are in the audience. This is nuts.” Sloan, Wells Fargo CEO & Wells Fargo. at the end of this release. The actor is also known by his music stage name Childish Gambino. SEPTEMBER 23, 2017 THE STAR PAGE 7 FLA/GA LOCAL Putting Families First Farm Share hosted by State Representative Tracie Davis Feeding Jacksonville District 13

By Dan Evans Florida Star Reporter

Free Food Giveaway! FARM SHARE Free Food Giveaway! That’s what the flyer read and was posted throughout District 13 telling residents that State Representative Tracie Davis and volunteers of Farm Share would be giving away food in the WELLS FARGO HISTORIC SPRINGFIELD Community Learning center parking lot. Although the giveaway was for residents of District 13 everybody was welcomed. Although temperatures were high this did not deter those looking for assistance with food supplies. Lines began in the parking lot and zigzagged towards Hubbard Street near 7th Street. Friends were made and people fellowshipped while waiting to be served. The usually pushing, shoving and discontent was nowhere to be seen. Everyone appeared to realize there was enough provision for everyone. The event appeared to be well organized and roughly three hundred people were present. For this report, a contact was made with State Rep. Davis’s office. District Executive Secretary Kiaira Nixon reported that…” Representative Davis, Earl and I learned that our team served a total of 294 households, 818 individuals with a total of 13,890.75 pounds of food. In addition to our partnership with National Foundation of Women Legislatures and Office Depot Foundation, we gave away 140 sack packs and pencil pouches…” Farm Shares, Lowes Store #1691, Haven of Northeast Florida Stop Our Children’s Pain Jacksonville, FL Alumni chapter of Kappa Alpha Psi, Upsilon Lambda Chapter of Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity Incorporated. Gamma Rho Omega Chapter of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority Incorporated. Pi Eta Omega Chapter of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority Incorporated. Jacksonville Florida Alumnae Chapter of Delta Sigma Theta Incorporated. Beta Alpha Zeta Chapter of Zeta Phi Beta Sorority Incorporated. Theta Phi chapter of Omega Psi Phi Fraternity Incorporated. Gamma Mu Omega Iota Phi Theta UF Health TraumaOne88 Blessings, Riverside Avondale Preservation, TCCDC, Jacksonville Urban League Northeast Florida LULAC, The Robert’s Family, Councilman Sam Newby, JSO Director Tony Davis Photo credit: Dan Evans

MORTGAGE ASSISTANCE FOR HOMEOWNERS AFFECTED BY NATURAL DISASTERS

48% of people selling homes WITHOUT AN AGENT end up with a LOWER SELLING PRICE. Agents help sell your

AGENT-LISTED HOMES CURRENT HOME SELL FOR 18% MORE while also finding a  than for sale by owner homes. FUTURE HOME FOR YOU. AGENTS TAKE Agents are the experts. CARE OF TRUST THEIR ALL THE PAPERWORK JUDGEMENT. By Coley Williams Florida Star Contributing‎ Writer Agents understand the art of JACKSONVILLE ---Homeowners impacted by SAVE YOU TIME CONTRACT recent hurricanes and tropical storms may be eligible by being your liaison. NEGOTIATION. for immediate assistance through federally regulated Agents will Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac mortgage programs. Agents will guide you HELP YOU NAVIGATE  Eligible homeowners would be allowed to suspend  FROM A TO Z mortgage payments for up to 12 months and not be THE LEGAL REQUIREMENTS  so nothing is missed. charged late fees. Delinquencies will not be reported to of buying or selling a home. credit bureaus and, most importantly, this program will Agents will  Agents put emoons not interfere with a family receiving most of the other secure ALL  assistance made available to homeowners,‎ said Edward aside and necessary  GET THE Gaston of Wealth Watchers Inc‎. Documents. He said homeowners can work with a HUD Certified DEAL DONE. Counseling agency like Wealth Watchers for additional assistance and to mediate issues with lenders. “The goal of the program is to ease the financial burden of homeowners so that other areas can be addressed to Possess a wide selecon Knowledgeable about stabilize their households,” Gaston said while surveying of available homes damages to homes caused by Hurricane Irma this week. VARIOUS NEIGHBORHOODS. NOT VISIBLE TO THE PUBLIC. in Jacksonville. Homeowners in Florida and Georgia are encouraged to BUYERS RELY ON MORE HOME SELLERS ARE apply for mortgage assistance through these programs. THEIR AGENTS WORKING WITH AGENTS Wealth Watchers counselors are available to determine 87% of buyers bought their 89% of home sellers used a eligibility by calling (904) 265-4736 or assistance can be requested by completing the contact form at www. home using a real estate agent. realtor to sell their home. wealthwatchersfl.com. 88% of buyers would use them 2015 was the lowest share Ed Gaston COO again or at least recommend Home-showings are of FSBO sales (8%) Call Wealth Watchers for Homebuyer Education (904) them to someone else. SCHEDULED EASILY. recorded since 1981. 265-4736 Stascs Sources: Forbes, Realtor Magazine, Redfin, NAR PAGE 8 THE STAR SEPTEMBER 23, 2017 SPORTS No victory formation for Jaguars after 37-16 loss to Titans By MIKE BONTS Florida Sports Day

JACKSONVILLE, Fla. — Marcus Mariota was 15-of- 27 passing for 215 yards with one touchdown as Tennessee soundly defeated AFC South rival Jacksonville 37-16. “Obviously I thought from the beginning of the game we started well, defense went out there and had a nice stop, we get the ball offensively, we drive down the fi eld and wind up kicking a fi eld goal, which Tennessee Titans linebacker Jayon Brown (55) is something you like to go and tackles Jacksonville Jaguars wide receiver Marqise get that fi rst score on the board. Lee (11) during the game on September 17, 2017 at I thought after that we really Everbank Field. (Photo by Debby Wong) didn’t have much going offen- sively,” said Jacksonville coach Doug Marrone. “I thought the Tennessee Titans safety Da’Norris Searcy (21) tries to tackle Jacksonville Jaguars defense was doing a good job. running back Leonard Fournette (27) during the game on September 17, 2017 at We gave up a sack-fumble. Everbank Field. (Photo by Debby Wong) We had a play-action pass that shouldn’t be tipped at the line ing back, coming in here and er. We just wanted to make sure ond consecutive week, the Jag- of scrimmage that was tipped, getting a win, and playing well we are all on the same page. uars defense forced a three-and- and then we had a ball go off in all three phases,” Mularkey They did that.” out on the opponents’ opening one of our receivers that was said. “It was the difference. We Along with the three turn- offensive possession….. thrown. We had the three turn- hung in there, we came in the overs, Jacksonville committed linebacker Telvin Smith inter- overs; we were able to over- second half, and just kept play- 10 penalties for 89 yards. cepted Mariota in the second come one. ” ing. That’s credit to those guys. “It’s always a concern. You quarter……..cornerback A.J. Jaguars QB Blake Bortles They were ready to play before, know, it’s funny, penalties, Bouye has registered six passes fi nished 20 of 34 for 223 yards and came in at halftime, and most people talk about from defensed in his last four games. with one touchdown and two wanted to come out and make a an analytical standpoint don’t He fi nished the game with six interceptions. Fourth overall statement, and I think they did. really coincide with winning tackles and needs eight tack- pick in the year’s NFL draft, It’s a good football team. or losing. I don’t agree with les for 150 career tackles….. running back Leonard Four- The Titans (1-1) forced turn- that,” Marrone said. “I think linebacker Myles Jack totaled Tennessee Titans cornerback Adoree’ Jackson (25) nette posted 14 carries for 40 overs on three straight pos- they do. That’s something that six tackles (fi ve solo), and reg- intercepts the ball from Jacksonville Jaguars wide yards and one TD and caught sessions spanning parts of the we have to clean up, because istered a third-down sack….. receiver Arrelious Benn (17) during the game on Sep- two passes for 21 yards. second and third quarters, in- I think when you look at this The Jags have 11 sacks through tember 17, 2017 at Everbank Field. (Photo by Debby Wide receiver Allen Hurns cluding an interception by de- game and at the end of the year their fi rst two games, the Jag- led the team with 82 receiv- fensive back Curtis Riley on a when they look at those statis- uars allowed two sacks of QB Wong) ing yards on six receptions and pass that was defl ected near the tics that they don’t really win or Blake Bortles and have now QB SIGNED TO ACTIVE games and has completed 9 of caught a seven-yard TD pass line of scrimmage and an inter- lose, I always say, well look at surrendered two or fewer sacks ROSTER: Jacksonville signed 10 passes for 128 yards and from Bortles in the fi nal quar- ception by Da’Norris Searcy this game. This does not give in fi ve consecutive games dat- fi fth-year QB Ryan Nassib to one TD. Nassib was originally ter. on a pass that was tipped by us the position that we want to ing back to last season…safety the 53-man active roster. To drafted by the New York Giants In the fi rst quarter, Jason My- Marqise Lee. be in from a standpoint of fi eld Barry Church totaled six tack- make room on the roster, the in the fourth round of the 2013 ers converted a 43-yard fi eld “Our O-line communicated,” position and a standpoint of be- les against the Titans and has Jaguars placed fourth-year NFL Draft and he played under goal on the Jaguars’ opening Titans tight end Delanie Walk- ing able to run the football the registered at least fi ve tackles safety Calvin Pryor on the Jaguars Executive Vice Presi- offensive possession. er said. “We talked about that way we want to.” in seven consecutive games….. team’s reserve/injured list. The dent of Football Operations Titan’s coach Mike Mularkey all week — about them com- The Titans limited the Jag- Dawuane Smoot, Tommy Boh- Jaguars also waived Doran Tom Coughlin for three sea- was pleased with the overall municating and knowing who uars to 99 rushing yards on 25 anon, Corey Grant and Keelan Grant from the team’s re- sons (2013-15) while Coughlin performance. to block. They did a great job carries. Jacksonville fell to 1-1. Cole each registered a special serve/injured list. Nassib, 6-2, served as the head coach for the “I’m proud of our team, com- communicating with each oth- JAGS NOTES: For the sec- teams tackle against the Titans. 223, has appeared in fi ve NFL New York Giants. GREEN BAY PACKERS VS ATLANTA FALCONS By DARRELL BAKER The Florida/Georgia Star

Matt Ryan and the Atlanta Falcons got off to a hot start in their new home against the Green Bay Packers, Sunday night in Mercedes-Benz Stadium. It took just nine plays for the Falcons to show its fans in primetime that there’s no Super Bowl hangover with Matt Ryan fi nding Julio Jones early for 19-yard and 34-yard catches on their fi rst scoring drive of the game. Devonta Freeman would cap off the drive with a 1-yard run to #88 Ty Montgomery Wide Receiver - (Packers) strike fi rst against their NFL -2-yards being defended by Keanu Neal - Safety Championships opponents (Falcons) 1st qtr. (Photo by Paul McPherson Jr.) from last season. The Falcons were equally effi cient and quite successful #11 Wide Receiver Julio Jones (Falcons) 15-yard pass being defended by #24 at putting the clamps on the Quinten Rollins - Corner Back (Packers) 1st qtr. (Photo by Paul McPherson Jr.) Packers run offense, making sure that every time that Ty by Devonta Freeman behind consistency showing just at the season at 2-0. Montgomery had the ball, the right side of the offensive start of the third quarter with Milestones: Matt Bryant’s he’d know that rushing yards line for his second touchdown the defense as Vic Beasley fi rst fi eld goal of the night was wouldn’t be handed out for of the night giving the Falcons Jr, smashed Rodgers as he his 200th of his career. He free. Montgomery could only a 14-7 lead and after a 51- throws a wobbly backward joined the Falcons in 2009. muster just 14-yards and a yard fi eld goal by Matt Bryant pass that was picked up Aaron Rodgers fi rst 1-yard touchdown run for his and another touchdown catch by Desmond Trufant who toucddown pass was his 300th efforts in the fi rst half of the by Tevin Coleman, after an zigzagged to the end zone of his career. game. interception by Desmond for a defensive touchdown, Player Injuries As the Packers were trying to Trufant with 47 seconds left in making it 31-7. Falcons: T Ryan Schraeder, fi nd out what could jumpstart the half, the Falcons looked set The Packers would fi nally DT Courtney Upshaw, LB Vic their offense, Matt Ryan would for easy street at the start of the jumpstart and make a few Beasley lead another scoring drive that third quarter with a 24-7 lead. scores in the fourth quarter Packers: DT Mike Daniel, #18 Wide Receiver Taylor Gabriel (Falcons) for included a short 24-yard pass The Falcons defense set out but it was just three quarters CB Davon House, S Kentrell 2-yards being defended by #21 Ha Ha Clinton-Dix - to Mohamed Sanu and another to pressure and harass Aaron to late as the Falcons take the Brice, WR Randall Cobb, WR Safety and #42 Morgan Burnett - Safety (Packers) short 2-yard run from the goal Rodgers all night with that win 34-23, starting off their Jordy Nelson 2nd qtr. (Photo by Paul McPherson Jr.) SEPTEMBER 23, 2017 THE STAR PAGE 9 Okwahu United of North America holds The Diaspora Congress & 30th Anniversary Celebration Will Africa’s Richest Man ‘Make America Great Again’? has expanded into nine African countries aside from Nigeria. In 2015, he began building a 650,000 barrel-a-day refinery near Lagos, Nigeria’s main commercial hub, and he’s constructing gas pipelines to the city from Nigeria’s oil region with U.S. private equity firms Carlyle Group LP and Blackstone Group LP. His refinery and pipelines are slated for completion in December 2019 - not soon enough for Oil Minister Ibe Kachikwu who has asked for an earlier date. But pipelines and oil refineries, fought Atlanta representation at Ohio Congress for Kwahus by U.S. green groups, have also dismayed Nigeria’s environmentalists. Dr. Godwin he 2017 Okwahu United North America Easter festivities” — Nana Effah Opinamang Uyi Ojo, head of Environmental Rights (OUNA) annual Congress was held in III. Action/Friends of the Earth Nigeria, calls Columbus, Ohio, USA. The event was Fundraising was led by Mr. Enoch Ahenkora investments in oil and gas short-sighted T A. Dangote and overlook the transition worldwide from hosted at the Double Tree by Hilton off Hutchinson (Ohio Chapter) and supported by Mr. Raymond fossil fuel dependence to renewable sources Avenue by the Ohio Chapter of OUNA under the Ansong of Massachusetts Chapter, to support Alhaji Aliko Dangote, the 60-year-old of energy. theme ‘Education! A Promise for All Obooma‘. education for needy students in the Kwahu Nigerian cement tycoon, has his eye on In Nigeria’s federal government budget President and Board Chairman of Ohio Chapter District. Nana Opoku Fosu was awarded a new investment prospects and is tempted of over US$53 million to buy generators Rev Isaac Anim told TheAfrianDream.net — who plaque at the fundraiser from Ohio for his by U.S. opportunities in renewable energy and fuel, he pointed out, “there is no budget were media partners for the event — that he felt contribution to Okwahuman Association of and petrochemicals. line for renewable energy. Nigeria is not very honored to have been chosen with Kwahus Ohio joining OUNA. Mr. Sam Safo, President “Let’s say that by 2025, I’m looking at thinking of energy transition and when (investing) between $20 billion and $50 in Ohio to host the 30th-anniversary festivities. He of Okwahuman Massachusetts also received we signal ‘leave the oil in the soil,’ we are said “even though it was a big responsibility, it was a plaque on behalf of his association’s quick billion outside Africa. Mind you, we don’t talking about Nigeria beyond oil.” do small things,” said Dangote, who is worth “Although Nigerians may point to some of also a bigger honor. We are glad OUNA President responses that helped facilitated and prepared $11.1 billion, according to Bloomberg’s the infrastructure built from oil proceeds,” Mr. Frederick Ansong-Dwamena and members all a successful congress in Ohio. Billionaires Index. Ojo said, “the monumental damage done over gave us the support we needed to make this CHURCH AND THEN FUN IN THE PARK: Dangote Group will consider investments to the environment, the conflicts that have a success.” After the non-denominational church service in Asia and Mexico, but will focus mainly emanated from the communities and the The 3-day event which coincided with OUNA’s at the Double Tree By Hilton all roads led to on the U.S. and Europe, he said. “I think political arena, as well as the killings in the 30th Anniversary Celebration was from September the Highland Metro Park off the Columbus renewables is the way to go forward, and country from the 1960s followed the do or 1-3, 2017 with the first day involving a reception Pike also in Ohio. The entire park was the future. We are looking at petrochemicals die politics to ensure control of the oil.” followed by a socializing and networking night. besieged by an army of Kwahus bent on but can also invest in other companies.” Dangote says, “Meanwhile, expect Over the last five years, Dangote Day-2 involved executives updating members having fun, making merry, playing games and investment dollars to flow from the U.S. to on the progress of respective projects OUNA is eating traditional foods. In an interview with diversified both geographically and into Nigeria. Profit margins there “are huge”. new industries. Dangote Cement Plc, which (TriceEdneyWire.com/GIN) embarking on, it was ended with a dinner dance. TheAfricanDream.net at the park, Mr. Francis accounts for almost 80 percent of his wealth, A non-denominational church service and picnic Sarpong; President of the Washington, DC climaxed the last day of the occasion which was Okwahu United Chapter said “it is so nice to attended by some 400 participants from respective see so many Okwahu adults and children here. Statement in Response to Anti- US states including Connecticut, Georgia, Illinois, I want to take this opportunity to also invite Immigrant Messages in Somerville, MA New Jersey, New York, Ohio, Pennsylvania, Texas, everyone to join our association, noting that Virginia, Washington DC and Massachusetts. you don’t necessarily need to be an Okwahu In Somerville, MA, virulently anti-immigrant messages threatened students with Obomenghene from the Kwahu District of Ghana to be a member.” deportation this week. These racist messages foster a climate of fear that interferes with flew in for the event while some OUNA members Okwahu United North America Chapters/ students’ social and academic progress. The messages push already vulnerable families traveled from Toronto – Canada to attend. Executives at 2017 Congress and children deeper into the shadows. We condemn messages of racism and hate. We are Highlights of Okwahu United North America At the event were the current OUNA Executives encouraged by the swift response of Mayor Joseph Curtatone and the Somerville Police Congress and the various Chapter and State Presidents in the Department. We urge other cities to act with similar urgency in responding to manifestations of hate. RECEPTION/NETWORKING: Mr. Peter persons of Mr. Fred Ansong-Dwamena (President Since the November election, communities in Massachusetts and across the country have Ennin opened the morning session with a from New York (NY)), Dr. Alexander Anim- experienced an unprecedented wave of hate. At the Lawyers’ Committee, we are rapidly prayer that was followed by Rev Isaac Anim’s Mensah (General Secretary from Ohio (OH)), mobilizing in response to hate crimes. We are distributing thousands of bilingual know- welcome address and that of OUNA President Dr. Wilson Akuamoah Boateng (Asst. General your-rights palm cards (see below). Please report hate incidents to 1-844-9-NO-HATE Frederick Ansong-Dwamena. The OUNA Secretary from Toronto Canada), Ms. Joana (1-844-966-4283). For more information on Massachusetts law and additional resources President in his address touched on how far Achanfuo- Yeboah (Treasurer from New Jersey please visit 8449nohate.org. the union has come since 1987 and progress (NJ)), Mr. Derrick Mintah (Organizing Secretary made to better lives and institutions among from Connecticut (CT)) and Mr. Kofi Dankwah Kwahus in North America and Ghana. He (Fundraiser, NY). also announced the association would head to Other Chapter and State Presidents presents Ghana for “Homecoming 2018 from March included Rev Isaac Anim (OH), Dr. Alex Boateng 23 – April 3 because this is very necessary (NY), Mr. Derick Mintah (CT), Mr. Francis as we look at newer and better ways to move Sarpong (DC), Mr. John Kesse (Illinois (IL)), Okwahuman forward.” The first ever OUNA Mr. Lord Ansong (NJ), Nana Dickson Obeng President is Ernie Kwabena Oware. (Canada), Mrs. Queenstar Kyeremanteng (Texas Dr. Alexander Anim-Mensah, OUNA General (TX)), Mr. Sam Sarfo (Massachusetts (MA)), Mr. Secretary in his presentation touched on how Rexford Anson-Dwamena Kwahus should look at the bigger picture Also present were past OUNA Mr. Stephen when proposing solutions to help the Kwahu Somuah (IL) and Nana Opoku Fosu (NY) and past district. He cited the need to have an ultra- state/chapter presidents Ms. Margaret Tabiri (DC), modern cultural center and said: “…it will Mr. Sunku-Sunku Donkor (DC), Mr. Henry Ofori- attract tourists AND others to the Kwahu Kru (DC), Philip Siaw (NJ), Mr. Peter K. Ennin District which will automatically lead to (CT), Mr. Kofi Saka Owusu (VA) and Mr. Fred improving the economic situation of the area Ansong-Dwamena (NY). The others were Mr. while contributing to resolving problems like Nana Opoku Fosu (NY) and Mr. Nana Asomani, lack of potable water, education, and quality Mr. Yaw Mensah, Mr. Sam Boateng, and Mr. health needs in some areas.” Joseph Yeboah all respectively of Ohio. SAFETY DINNER DANCE: The dinner dance was Notable guests at the event included National Preparedness Month: Keep opened with a prayer by Elder Kwabena Akwasihohene Nana Dafour II, Tafohene Nana Boamah-Acheampong while Elder Bismark Asomani, ceremonial Okwahumanhene of Your Family Safe in an Emergency Omari Somuah the MC of the event introduced Chicago-IL Nana Asamoah, ceremonial Queen the event chairman Dr. Yeboah. Mrs. Florence Mother of Kwahus in CT Nana Adoma Kyerekua, When it comes to emergency and natural disaster preparation, clean, uncontaminated Ofori introduced the keynote speaker Nana Dr. Ofori-Attah of Columbus Asanteman and his water should be top-of-mind. September, which is National Preparedness Month, is an Effah Opinamang III, Obomenghene from wife, and Dr. & Mrs. Nyamikeh Mensah of Indiana. ideal time for individuals and families to make certain that they will be able to hydrate Kwahu District who represented Daasebre Associations that came to support Kwahuman safely throughout the duration of an emergency. Natural disasters, such as tornadoes, floods and hurricanes, can compromise local Akuamoah Agyapong II; Kwahumanhene included Asanteman, Okyeman, Mfantseman, water sources. Flooding can be especially dangerous, when harmful bacteria and (paramount King of Kwahus) in Ghana. In his Ga- Adangbe, and the larger Ghanaian community contaminants that transmit life-threatening diseases can be present in nearby waterways. speech, Dr. Yeboah commended Kwahuman friends of North America. Unfortunately, flooding can occur after a number of emergency scenarios, from heavy of Ohio for the great work done in organizing Kwahu is an Akan group and area, dubbed rains to hurricanes to situations when snow melts too quickly. such an event and encouraged other Chapters ‘Asaase Aban’ or the natural fortress, in view of its “Contamination in fresh water sources continues to be a public health problem to emulate the Ohio Chapter example to national position as the highest habitable elevation. domestically and worldwide. During emergency scenarios, the issue is amplified as continue the tradition of hosting precise and Kwahu lies in the Eastern Region of Ghana, on the water can become unreliable for consumption,” says Alison Hill, managing director of well-organized events. Nana Effah Opinamang west shore of Lake Volta. LifeStraw, a manufacturer of water filtration systems. III stressed the importance of such events to Washington DC and Virginia Chapters of OUNA Consumers need to have the ability to filter their water following an emergency the Kwahus and the Kwahu District. He told will host and jointly organize the 2018 congress situation. Be sure your emergency supplies include a portable filter which can fit onto a wide variety of popular water bottle brands such as LifeStraw Universal. This versatile TheAfricanDream.net that he fully supported around the Labor Day weekend from August filter fits on most bottles you already own and offers two-stage filtration toremove ‘Homecoming 2018’ idea proposed by OUNA 31 – September 2. To find out more about next 99.999999 percent of bacteria and 99.999 percent of protozoa, while also reducing President. that event, explore sponsorship or collaborative chemicals, bad taste and odors. The LifeStraw Universal kit is available online and at “This is going to be a nice way for Kwahus opportunities and donate to non-profit OUNA specialty retail stores. in the Diaspora and Ghana to come together causes, send an email to alexraymonda@yahoo. “We’ve developed portable filtration technology to give consumers greater confidence under the Okwahu United spirit to look into com, [email protected] or contact@ that, in an emergency situation or natural disaster, they can have access to safe water the future and develop ways to move Kwahus oralofori.com. Follow Okwahu United activities for days, weeks, even months following a situation where their water supply is forward all over so it has a positive effect on on social media via Facebook pages of respective compromised,” says Hill. Ghana and the world at large. By the way, I am Chapters. While most people don’t like to dwell on worst case scenarios, the right preparation so impressed by the number of attendance in can help you remain healthy and safe during an emergency. This National Preparedness Month; be sure that you equip your family with practical means to have safe drinking Ohio. I look forward to an even larger number Source: TheAfricanDream.net / OUNA water. (StatePoint) at the 2018 congress and during the Kwahu All photos by Oral Ofori of TheAfricanDream.net PAGE 10 THE STAR SEPTEMBER 23, 2017 COMMUNITY Staff Directory OPINIONS The views and information expressed in this column are not necessarily the views of the publisher or advertisers. OWNER/PUBLISHER Follow Us! Clara McLaughlin Facebook MANAGEMENT @thefloridastarnewspaper Lonzie Leath Twitter Rinetta M. Fefie @thefloridastar GENERAL MANAGER Instagram Opio Sokoni @thefloridastar SALES & MARKETING Website: Kirkwood Hannah www.thefloridastar.com

News You Can Use from State Senator Audrey Gibson

Prostate Cancer Awareness Month www.childrensdefense.org ______Medicaid and the ACA are once again at risk! Please make a call TODAY.

Dear Constituent and Friend, Despite the groundswell of resistance over the spring and summer months that helped defeat the worst threats to health care we have ever seen, repealing the Affordable Care Act (ACA) and slashing Medicaid funding are back on the Senate Did you know September is Prostate Cancer agenda. Senators Lindsey Graham (R-SC) and Bill Cassidy (R-LA), along with co-sponsors Dean Heller (R-NV) and Ron Awareness Month? Johnson (R-WI), are racing the clock to secure enough votes to pass their “Graham-Cassidy bill” by the end of September, before Republican leadership loses its ability to pass it in the Senate with just 50 votes. Prostate Cancer is one of the most common The Graham-Cassidy bill is even more harmful than the previous Senate bills defeated this summer. In addition to fundamentally restructuring Medicaid by establishing a per person cap on spending, it would also replace the ACA’s market occurring cancers in men. According to the Florida place subsidies and the Medicaid expansion with a block grant. Federal funding for the Medicaid expansion would be Prostate Cancer Advisory Council in Florida, one in eliminated entirely in 10 years. It also allows states broad waiver authority to exclude coverage of essential health benefits four men will be diagnosed with prostate cancer. At and health coverage for children and adults with pre-existing conditions. The Graham-Cassidy bill would leave millions of higher risk are African American men and men with Americans uninsured, destabilize the individual insurance market, and end Medicaid as we know it. Medicaid is a lifeline for first-degree relatives (defined as a close blood relative, more than 37 million children, more than 40 percent of all children with special health care needs and more than 40 percent which includes parents, full siblings or children) and of all births. While all states would eventually face deep and growing cuts under Graham-Cassidy, states that have been the second-degree relatives (defined as a blood relative, most successful at enrolling people in newly available coverage under the ACA would be most severely punished. See state which includes grandparents, grandchildren, aunts, by state estimates of funding cuts. uncles, nephews, nieces or half-siblings) with prostate https://www.cbpp.org/research/health/like-other-aca-repeal-bills-cassidy-graham-plan-would-add-millions-to-uninsured cancer. There is enormous and growing pressure for a vote on Graham-Cassidy before the end of the month – likely the week of There are several major factors that influence the risk September 25th. Please raise your voice now, and ask others to call too! Keep the pressure on. Call (877) 233-9025 TODAY and tell your Senators to vote NO on Graham-Cassidy to #ProtectMedicaid and of developing prostate cancer. #KeepKidsCovered! Age: The older you are, the more likely you are to be diagnosed with prostate cancer. African American men should begin screening between Here’s what you can say: the ages of 40-45. I am a concerned constituent from (Hometown, State). I urge Senator ______to vote NO Race: African-American men are more likely on the Graham-Cassidy Senate Health Care bill, which cuts Medicaid, undermines coverage to develop prostate cancer compared to Caucasian for people with pre-existing conditions, and will result in millions more uninsured Americans. men, and are nearly 2.5 times more likely to die The Graham-Cassidy bill fails to #KeepKidsCovered and must be defeated. At a time when from the disease. 95 percent of children in America have health coverage, we cannot move backwards. I ask Family history/genetics: If your father or brother developed prostate cancer you may be twice as the Senator to vote NO. likely to develop the disease. ______This year, the 100 Black Men of Jacksonville, Inc. (J100) (http://100blackmenjax.org/), Florida Blue Contestants (https://www.floridablue.com/) and the Jaguars Foundation (http://www.jaguars.com/foundation- Sought to Place Your Ad Here community/foundation/foundation.html) kicked Represent their Call 904-766-8834 off National Prostate Cancer Awareness Month, City at Miss partnering in “Men Tackling the Big C” Prostate Email: [email protected] Cancer Awareness and Education (MTBC) initiative. Georgia Pageant The MTBC program will provide coordinated Missing Children outreach to inform men and their families about risk LOGANVILLE, GA - The Report a missing child: 1-800-THE-LOST (1-800-843-5678). USA National Miss (UNM) factors, screening, diagnosis and treatment options Scholarship Pageant is related to prostate cancer. seeking young ladies ages The initiative features a prostate cancer risk assessment 4-25 to represent their city website, outreach during 2017 Jaguar home games, at the annual Miss Georgia health fair screenings, system of care referrals, prostate state pageant. The Miss cancer support groups, speaker’s bureau network and Georgia state pageant will other sponsored events. be held November 4-5 at the The goal of the collaborative is to reduce the number Henry County Performing of men getting prostate cancer through prevention, and Arts Center. Contestants will compete in evening the number of men dying from prostate cancer. The Tyron Pembrook -Hagood Jarkeius Adside Brittany Bedeau MTBC initiative encourages men to discuss early gown, interview and runway fashion to claim the Missing Since Sex: Male Missing Since Race: Black Missing Since Race: Biracial detection evaluation options with their healthcare six divisional Miss Georgia Sep 15, 2017 Race: Black Oct 18, 2001 Hair Color Aug 9, 2017 Hair Color Missing From Hair Color Missing From provider to determine the best patient care preferences. state titles and advance to Black Missing From Black Saint Louis, Brown Miami, FL Hampton, GA I encourage all men to talk to a physician about Eye Color Eye Color the national competition MO Eye Color DOB DOB Brown prostate cancer risks and screening. in Florida with fees paid. DOB Brown Sep 30, 2000 Nov 10, 2000 Brown For more information on prostate cancer screening, Winners will also receive a Sep 13, 2007 Height: 4’10” Age Now: 16 Height: 2’0” Age Now: 16 Height: 5’0” contact: prize package that includes Age Now: 10 Weight: 85 lbs Sex: Male Weight: 30 lbs Sex: Female Weight: 105 lbs UF Health: photo shoots, prizes and http://ufhealthjax.org/cancer/prostate/ or (904) 244- gifts. As a charity-oriented 0411 organization, USA National Shaping the Bright Future of America: MBDA Baptist Health: Miss’ national platform http://www.baptistjax.com/services/cancer-care/ is The Crown CARES Celebrates National Hispanic Heritage Month (Creating a Respectful prostate-cancer-care or (904) 202-2273 Environment in Schools) WASHINGTON (September 19, 2017) -- The U.S. Department of Commerce, Cancer Center: and state winners will Minority Business Development Agency is proud to celebrate the history, culture, http://www.cancercenter.com/prostate-cancer/ or become ambassadors for and contributions of Hispanic and Latino Americans as part of National Hispanic (800) 615-3055 this 501c3 organization Heritage Month September 15 - October 15. This year’s theme is “Shaping the If for any reason you have difficulty locating a facility to promote the anti-bully Bright Future of America.” for screening, please contact my office at (904) 359- message across schools in Georgia. 2553. “This is a special time for our Nation and for the many generations of Hispanics As always, it is an Honor and a Pleasure to serve you and Latinos who have added so much to the fabric of America and to the forming in the Florida Senate! For more information about the USA National of our national culture,” said MBDA Acting National Director Chris Garcia. “Our Miss Georgia state diversity is one of the most beautiful things about America, and as a Mexican- Sincerely, American, I am especially proud to celebrate the numerous contributions of the Audrey Gibson pageant, or to register as a contestant, go to www. Hispanic and Latino community. From government and education to business and State Senator USANationalMiss.com/ entertainment and beyond, our culture is indeed helping to shape the bright future District 6 georgia or email georgia@ of America. I’m looking forward to a wonderful observance.” usanationalmiss.com. Listings are due the Tuesday before the next issue. Email submissions preferred. Send to: [email protected] SEPTEMBER 23, 2017 THE STAR PAGE 11 CLASSIFIEDS Place Your Ad - We also accept Cash and Money Orders Call 904-766-8834 To Advertise - Order by Tuesday @ 4:00 p.m. Artwork in by Wednesday @ 4:00 p.m.

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