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2017-06-29

The Weekly Challenger : 2017 : 06 : 29

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This is brought to you for free and open access by the The Weekly Challenger at Scholar Commons. It has been accepted for inclusion in Newspaper collection by an authorized administrator of Scholar Commons. For more information, please contact [email protected]. 1967 2017 The Weekly Challenger                  NFFM  Men’s Day  Celebration

PAGE 4 Incumbent Rick Kriseman and former Mayor Rick Baker took shots at each other COMMUNITY NEWS during the first mayoral debate Tuesday, June 27. Just T.H.I.N.K.  Chief Anthony Holloway BY FRANK DROUZAS Staff Writer  ST. PETERSBURG – Packed into a tiny church Sunday morn- ing on Irving Avenue South, con- BY FRANK DROUZAS forward or backward. as downtown. crimes are down 26 gregation members and Staff Writer Baker, running for Kriseman said he is percent. Even one esteemed guest swayed to the a third term said his “incredibly proud” of crime is too many, he joyful noise of the Men of Faith ST. PETERSBURG – PAGE 6 objective back in the city’s Police Chief conceded, but when Ensemble at the 27th annual COMMUNITY NEWS Mayor Rick Kriseman 2001 as mayor was to Anthony Holloway, you don’t have the rela- Men’s Day Celebration. and former Juneteenth at create a “seamless whom Kriseman him- tionship between the This year’s theme was “Men Mayor Rick Baker city.” Not every neigh- self handpicked. He community and the po- of Faith Striving for Stronger Gallarie 909 faced off—and often borhood is going to be noted programs that lice department, he Brotherhood,” and keynote traded barbs—in a de- the same, he said, but have been introduced said what you get is far speaker and St. Petersburg bate held Tuesday certain things should since Holloway took of- worse. He pointed out Chief of Police Anthony Hol- night at the Mt. Zion be common to every fice such as Park, Walk that in 2005 alone the loway asked a question as old as Progressive Mission- neighborhood, such as and Talk, where offi- city had over 30 mur- the Bible: “Am I my brother’s ary Baptist Church. grocery stores and cers talk to residents ders. keeper?” Kriseman and Baker banks. one on one. Gwyn said he felt A brother is one that pro- are two of seven candi- Once moderator “It’s all about the mayor did not an- tects you, cares for you, loves dates running for the Tammie Fields opened reestablishing that re- swer his questions, you to the core and looks up to office. up questions from the lationship with the and Baker felt the you, he explained. In his opening com- floor, Alphonso Gwyn community,” Kriseman same way. Pouncing on “I look at myself today,” he ments, it was clear that PAGE 8 asked Kriseman what said, adding that as a the question, Baker said. “The only reason why I’m COMMUNITY NEWS the incumbent Krise- his plans are to combat result, more crime tips said that the city estab- in the position I’m in today is man, now wrapping up crime—specifically are coming into the po- lished the “street one, because of God. The sec- Pride Parade his first term, was look- drugs and prostitu- lice from the commu- crimes” unit when he ond one is I have some broth- 2017 ing ahead and pointed tion—and the feeling nity. was mayor, and its pur- ers.” out that this campaign that some communi- He said that crime pose was to target Holloway related a story is about the future, and ties do not get the is down in the city about a police operation in the whether we want to go same police attention overall, and violent See MAYOR, page 7 1990s where he posed as a man selling crack on a street cor- ner. A minister who recognized Holloway approached him and expressed surprise, but natu-  Being both black and gay rally, Holloway could not dis- BY FRANK DROUZAS Florida. “And for too long close his purpose out in the open Staff Writer in popular culture, in the street. The minster, clueless of what was happening but simply  visuals that we saw and ST. PETERSBURG – the voices that we hear, concerned for Holloway’s safety,   “I’m so ecstatic to see all gay equals white, was determined to help. of my white friends here, straight equals black and “He said, ‘Here’s what I’m  but I was truly hopeful often our voices and our going to do for you,’” Holloway for more African Ameri- recalled. “I’m going to buy all the  history got lost in the gap cans in this audience,” between that.” crack off you, and go home be- said Terri Lipsey Scott at The members of the cause you don’t want to do this.” a panel discussion on panel included actor/ That minister was there, Hol-  June 20. playwright Bob Devin loway said, being “my brother’s Held at the Carter G. Jones, Bay News 9 re- keeper.” The chief pointed out   Woodson African Ameri- porter Trevor Pettiford, the importance of those of his can History Museum, generation helping younger  author Sheree Greer, Sheree Greer, left, and Nadine Smith five members of the founder of the Side Door folks get on the right path.  LGBTQ community Jazz series Desmond Jones recalled his el- bedroom and was telling “I’m very blessed because I shared their stories Clark and Executive Di- ementary school my dad—I don’t think he have people that work for me about being black and rector/Co-Founder teacher coming to his used the word ‘gay’—but that are my brother’s keeper,” he gay. of Your Real Stories, Inc. family’s home—a one- that I was a ‘different’ said. “The reality is that Dr. Lillian Dunlap. bedroom apartment kind of child,’” Jones said, He asked everyone in the you cannot tell black his- During this open dis- shared by eight family adding that after the congregation: “Are you the voice tory without telling the cussion, they addressed members—to talk to his teacher left, he and his that speaks up when they can’t history of LGBT black the question directly father about young dad never talked about it. speak up? Are you that person people,” said moderator about what it was to grow Jones, who was seven or Many years later, that’s going to stand up for them Nadine Smith, activist up being both black and eight at the time. Jones’ father proudly when you see something and CEO of Equality “He came into the gay. See MUSEUM, page 5 See FAITH, page 9

We Value Diversity | We Value Education | We Value History www.TheWeeklyChallenger.com • 727-896-2922 2 THE WEEKLY CHALLENGER, THURSDAY, JUNE 29, 2017 COMMUNITY NEWS

     REV. DR. ROBERT L. HARRISON, PH.D. Men of S.T.E.E.L. Ministries www.menofsteelministries.com

Political appeal Praise the Lord Saints the presence of the Lamb. “And the Black women voted at a rate higher schools). Although these matters are of HELL. IS THERE SUCH A smoke of their torment ascends for- than any other group in 2008 and 2012 ac- great concern to black women, politicians PLACE? WILL SOME GO THERE? – ever and ever; and they have no rest cording to the Elections must expand this list if seriously desiring PART 2 day or night, who worship the beast Project analysis of Census Bureau not only her vote but her support. Re- It was interesting that the moment and his image, and whoever receives data. In 2012, the presidential election cruiting black women at all levels within some saw the subject I picked to dis- the mark of his name.” This describes saw 74 percent of eligible black women political arenas and supporting her ex- cuss last week the common question the final location of the devil and those voting, 96 percent of whom voted for pression will help to do this. asked was, Why Hell? who followed him willingly or by being President Barack Obama. Historically, black people have held Of course the only answer I had deceived. Bypassing reported allegations of major membership in both major par- was, this is what I was led by the Holy Once someone is there it’s final, Russia’s involvement in the 2016 Presi- ties. After the Civil War, most black peo- Spirit to discuss. there’s no second chance. It is a prison dential Election exists the oftentimes ig- ple were Republicans. This is If Jesus discussed it multiple times (Mt.18:6-9) where no one escapes. It is nored, yet blaring questions surrounding understandable since the history of the more than heaven, it must have had a also described as everlasting punish- the political establishments’ lack of appeal Democratic Party was overwhelmingly greater importance. ment. The Greek for everlasting to the powerful voting block of black pro-slavery and pro-segregation. With all that has happened this (aiones) means always, continually, a women. She has shown that she will vote, A political shift, however, year, it seems like I had stated months forever concept. If those of us who re- but where are candidates and political occurred. President Harry S. Truman’s ago that the world seems to have lost ceived Christ as our substitute for our party attempts to woo her? 1948 re-election was significant in that it its god conscience. Simply meaning sin have everlasting life with Him, then Ask yourself, which candidates explic- demonstrated to the Democratic Party that most believe that they can con- those who will suffer away from Christ itly include agenda items that appeal to that it could endorse a liberal civil rights tinue to live life as they choose without will have eternal suffering. The same black women collectively? Which political platform and win. As a result of Truman’s no possible chance of a consequence. word for eternal is used for both the leaders address her concerns and set as appeals for a federal ban on lynching and Well if that is what they choose to be- wicked suffering and the just living goals meeting her expectations in order supporting civil rights laws, the Demo- lieve its their permissive free will to be- with God. If the punishment of the to garner her vote? Who uses their plat- cratic Party saw increased numbers of lieve that. However, me and several wicked is only temporary as cessasion- forms to bring attention and solution to black voters joining. million others tend to believe different. ists say, then there will come a day obstacles impeding her upward mobility Just as black voters were “courted” in I preached a message some when God will no longer exist! Be- and development, and to that of younger the Republican Party initially, the Demo- months ago titled, “Eternity is Too cause the same descriptive term is generations looking up to her? You do cratic Party realized it could win elections Long to be Wrong”. used for eternal life and eternal pun- not have to be a black woman to find im- by presenting the same or similar ap- We believe that there is life after ishment is used for the eternal God. portance in these questions. peal. The black voting block was recog- death and that your soul is gonna The dead are in heaven worshipping When political talking points and plat- nized and not taken for granted. Both spend an eternity somewhere and God proving that they still exist with- forms are developed, do you think the black and non-black people understood there will be no retribution beyond the out their bodies and those who are idea of “black women” is consciously in- its value. As a result, both black and non- grave, or in other words, you will not dead in hell are cognizant and able to cluded in the desired general audience? black people saw progress. be given another chance to get it right feel as well. Who is this audience? If the voting block Look around. On local levels, are you after you die. You ain’t gonna be raised Death is the great equalizer, and it of black women were truly included, seeing progress being made to improve a thoroughbred after living the life of a gives no second chances for anyone. would not you frequently hear politicians life for black people? Many times, what mule. And if you lived your life believ- For those who decide on their rejec- and political parties mentioning her inter- is seen locally is reflected nationally. ing this, well good luck on that fairy tion are solidified in it after they leave ests in mainstream media? She is listen- In 2012’s Presidential Election, 74% of tale. this life. ing. Her vote and support have shown to eligible black women voted nationally. Hey, we could be wrong, but do Luke 12:46-48 tells us the differ- determine election outcomes. Where are Locally, it is important to appeal to and you really want to gamble that. Now, ence between servants who obeyed the efforts that appeal to her specifically? support her via representation and oppor- don’t get me wrong, this ain’t for and disobeyed, where one will be When not completely ignored, there tunity. As history has shown, the vote one everyone, only born again, Holy Ghost given few stripes another many in pun- seems to be a tendency of politicians to Party takes for granted will find its home filled believers that believe Jesus rose ishment. For the Pharisees who took limit the concerns of black women to is- in another. on the third day morning to redeem advantage of widows and showed off sues media outlets and agendas have Keisha Bell is an attorney, author and mankind of all their sins. Don’t get it their religion publicly they will receive placed a black man’s face (i.e. police bru- public servant. www.emergingfree.com twisted though, that NEVER gave us the greater condemnation. Mt.23:14, tality) and a black child’s face (i.e. poor the green light to be the biggest sin- Mk 12:40, Lk 20:47. Wow! This is men- ners ever known thinking it doesn’t tioned three times. matter. That’s why the church is los- Heb. 10:28-29: “Anyone who has re- ing its power today. Too many believ- jected Moses’ law dies without mercy ers, leaders, have taken total on the testimony of two or three wit- advantage of this thought and hence, nesses Of how much worse punish- The Gathering of Women Inc., is looked at like a hypocrite and the car- ment, do you suppose, will he be nal world has used a broad brush to thought worthy who has trampled the paint us all with that thought and it Son of God underfoot, counted the adding a musical instrument program couldn’t be more false. blood of the covenant by which he was ST. PETERSBURG – Hell was made for the devil and his sanctified a common thing, and in- A music program is angels, it was not first intended for sulted the Spirit of grace? The law was being added to The Gath- man. In Rev. 14:10-11 it describes their to bring one to Christ to reject its tes- ering of Women Inc., experience, “he himself shall also timony of showing ones sin is to reject youth’s program. How- drink of the wine of the wrath of God, Christ who died for the sin. ever, before that can hap- which is poured out full strength into Till next week, pen, they are in need of the cup of His indignation. He shall be God Bless. instruments. tormented with fire and brimstone in Rev. Dr. Robert L. Harrison, PhD What is needed? the presence of the holy angels and in Strings instru- ments: violin, viola, cello, keyboard, guitar, bass, Woodwinds: flute, oboe, clarinet, saxo- phone music. a willingness to learn Brass: trumpet, There is a minimum music.   French horn, trombone, of 28 lessons during the The Gathering of tuba, baritone course of the year, some- Women believes that by  Percussion: snare times more. All classes sharing instruments and  drums & bells will be held on Saturdays. musical experiences, Instructors will be re- Each lesson will be 45 children who would not   cruited from the commu- minutes and will be or- otherwise have the op- nity, and the program will ganized by instrument portunity can experience last from August 26 to families. a kind of freedom and     June 2018. The young children self-discovery that Approximately 30 stu- are not exposed to the in- is often stifled in an at- dents from ages 5-16 will struments to master mosphere of economic   be served. Once students  them, but to gain experi- hardship. are registered and en- ence and to have a mean- Applications will be rolled, they will learn the ingful relationship with given out at the orienta- mechanics of music. Top- music at a young age. tion or by contacting a The Weekly Challenger P.O. Box 35130, St. Petersburg, FL 33705 ics will include how The goal is to place a member of the Gathering Phone: (727) 896-2922 is distributed in the following cities: Fax: (727) 823-2568 sound is produced in musical instrument into a of Women. Please email St. Petersburg • Clearwater • Largo general and by specific Email: [email protected] child’s hands. They are [email protected] for Tarpon Springs • Dunedin • Safety Harbor www.theweeklychallenger.com instruments and how looking for children who more information. physics is related to demonstrate a desire and Ethel L. Johnson All news items, advertising copy and best lead the world from racial CEO/Publisher Emerita related art submitted for publication antagonism when it accords to Lyn Johnson on Thursday must be received no later every man, regardless of race, Publisher/General Manager than 4 p.m. Monday. creed or color, his human and Advertising COLUMNIST’S legal rights. 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BY ALLEN A. Dear Editor: be pulled over. The same BUCHANAN Philando Castile state government that Staff Writer looked like many people I charged Castile $6,000 in know, slender with glasses traffic fines deemed him fit ST. PETERSBURG – and dreadlocks. Also like to own a gun. So where is Twelve Masons stood tall, other people I know, he the NRA? Why are they proud and spiritually had a permit to carry a not defending Castle’s driven to represent the gun; yet, there are no out- right to carry a firearm ideas of the two men they raged NRA or Second without getting shot? exemplify: St. John the Amendment people? There has been no Baptist and St. John the Castile did not fit the public demonstration of Evangelist. common narrative told support for Castile or any Held this year at Bethel about so many black vic- other black person while Community Baptist tims of police shootings. they bend over backward Church, every June 24 Front Row: David Witherspoon, Derrick Ingram, He wasn’t a very big men- to hide behind the Second their life. Freemasons around the Mark Jordon, Mike Vaughn acing guy with a long vio- Amendment, vilifying any- A cop should be held world celebrate St. John’s Back Row: George Hill, Michael Simmons Sr., lent criminal record. Yes, one who wants less gun vi- accountable just like a doc- Day. In December, how- Tommy Simpson, Christopher Irvin, he had been stopped more olence. All Presidents tor who commits malprac- ever, it’s St. John the Evan- than 40 times for driving vi- Clinton and Obama tice. What is the difference gelist’s turn. Courtney Thomas, Ernest Sutton, Charles Hammond, Clifford Pickett olations and had paid al- wanted was common between the policemen’s St. John the Baptist and most $6,000 dollars in sense gun control. Castile code of silence and the St. John the Evangelist are traffic fines, but only six is dead because a nervous thug’s “no snitch culture?” ner in which they lived and to work towards the better- two eminent patrons of times had he been stopped cop over reacted, rightfully Good police and citi- worked.” ment of all mankind.” Freemasonry, and both for something a policeman afraid because of too many zens pay the price. We as a Brother Chris Ervin Rev. Manuel Sykes de- represent the qualities of could see outside of his guns! society should insist that opened the service with a livered the message “We character that all good car. Officer Yanez said, “I police are trained and paid Call to Worship and re- Ain’t Never Scared” from Freemasons aspire to. Most of Castile traffic feared for my life.” Just like better! Whether it means sponsive reading, and Psalms 11 that starts off St. John the Baptist stops came in predomi- George Zimmerman raising taxes or giving po- Brother Tommy Simpson with a bird successfully was a man of character and nately white neighbor- claimed he was in fear for lice a big cut out of lottery welcomed visitors. fleeing the arrows of its integrity. The Freemans hoods. his life. Just like the police money, something needs Brother David Wither- enemy. His message was regard him for his purity, He was not a killer or a officers that shot a 12-year- to be done. spoon shared the essen- to put one’s trust in the zeal and simplicity of man- drug dealer. Philando old boy with a toy gun in It is crazy to ask people tials on what is Lord no matter what the ners. St. John the Evangel- worked as a school cafete- Ohio feared for their lives. in law enforcement to Freemasonry. circumstances appear to ist is considered equal to ria supervisor where he Too many people have got- solve all of our social ills “Freemasonry is the be and the righteous will the Baptist in his zeal for knew the first names of ten off with the “I feared and pay them so little. Po- largest and oldest secular prevail. the same qualities, and be- 500 kids. for my life” excuse when lice need better training, fraternities in the world,” One of the spiritually cause of his abilities as a Officer Jeronimo Yanez they were the ones who more time with their fami- said Witherspoon. charged highlights of the speaker and writer he was told Philando it was a bad used deadly force. lies and more money! What he said next event was Shawn Brown’s enabled to spread the taillight, but he told his Most police are killed Good cops should also sep- could be the solution to a solo rendition of “It Is Me teachings of St. John the commander Castile looked by white men, yet the vic- arate themselves from the lot of international as well Oh Lord, Standing In The Baptist to a far broader au- like a burglary suspect be- tims of most police shoot- ones who fail to live up to as local problems if taken Need of Prayer.” dience. cause he had a big nose. ings are black. their sacred oaths. Every- seriously and with an open Freemasons from “There is nothing in Castile got into trouble The NRA is for the peo- one needs to take a stand mind. throughout the Tampa our history to explain as to like many poor white and ple who make and sell for law, order and decency “Freemasonry crosses Bay area were repre- how and why they are cho- black people do. Unpaid guns! Selling fear is big whether you wear a badge all religious boundaries to sented. After the service, sen as our patron saints,” tickets that lead to high money! Especially fear of or not. bring together individuals they enjoyed refreshments said Bro. Derrick Engram. fines and suspensions certain people. Philando Castile’s fam- of all countries, with opin- and the feeling of brother- “But they were the perfect stemming from having to Castile should not have ily got an out of court set- ions of peace and harmony hood and service. choice because of the man- drive to work to pay the died because he and Yanez tlement for three million fines. However, Philando misunderstood a com- dollars, Officer Yanez was driver’s license was good mand. Yanez escalated a found innocent of all when he was shot. situation that took a life charges and a little girl wit- I am my brother’s and A Minnesota commis- and lost him his job. Soci- nessed her daddy’s mur- sion reported that black ety cannot keep giving po- der. What a great tragedy. people were seven times lice a free pass because Rivers Cleveland sister’s keeper more likely than whites to they say they feared for Dear Editor: An entire generation This past Sunday I was has been pitted against blessed to participate in each other and fooled into Men’s Day 2017 at New believing that in this life Faith Free Methodist it’s every man for himself. Social Services Grant Application Church. For the fourth There used to be a time year in a row, I was able to when neighbors looked be a part of such an auspi- out for each other. There Deadline July 3 cious celebration honoring was a time when the a few public servants church went outside of ST. PETERSBURG – So- families with minor or de- within our very own com- their four walls and into cial service agencies may pendent children; unac- munity. The small church, the community to make a now apply for $354,000 in companied youth; and packed with worshipers, difference in the lives of competitive grants from rapid rehousing for fami- assembled under one com- those in need. Some may the city of St. Petersburg. lies/individuals. mon theme: “Men of Faith recall the days when chil- trust and an open line of Grant applications are To qualify for the 2018 Striving for Stronger dren actually respected communication between due Monday, July 3, by 4 Social Action Funding Pro- Brotherhood.” their teachers and their our police and those they p.m. and are available on- gram, applicants must have Our guest speaker for elders. What happened to are sworn to protect. line at www.stpete.org/so- attended a mandatory Bid- the morning, St. Peters- those days? What hap- These measures are all cial_action_funding. ders and Technical Work- burg Police Chief Anthony pened to our village? well and fine, but what Applications should be shop held on June 2. Agencies must submit Holloway, brought a truly At Sunday’s service, good do they pose to our delivered to St. Petersburg Grant awards will not only one application. uplifting and inspiring the chief reminded us of youth if the life skills being City Hall, 175 Fifth St. N, be offered to agencies re- In Fiscal Year 2017, the word. His message was those days. He also re- taught aren’t reciprocated St. Petersburg. questing less than $10,000 city allocated social serv- centered on the question, minded us that we have an in the home? The real Funding is limited to or more than $40,000. An ices grants to 17 organiza- “Am I my brother’s obligation to each other. change starts at home. If social service programs agency can request fund- tions in the community. keeper?” We each share in our world is to ever be a that provide homeless ing for more than one pro- For more information, The chief asked some to transform the communi- better place, we must first services and/or homeless gram, but the total request visit www.stpete.org/so- pretty tough questions in ties that we’ve vested so get our houses in order. prevention services. Prior- for these competitive funds cialservices. his message and he chal- much of our time, talent Our children learn ity for funding: homeless cannot exceed $40,000. lenged the entire church and treasures into. from us and emulate our to delve deeper into the Too many businesses actions. That’s why we roles as believers and citi- in south St. Pete have must lead by example and zens. It’s safe to say that failed because we failed to be willing to correct one some may have felt a little support them. Too many another when we are What’s next? uncomfortable, but after of our young black men wrong, but do so out of all, sometimes the truth are incarcerated today be- love. The proverb says, The St. Petersburg businesses within our com- hurts. cause we choose to turn “Charity begins at home,” Branch NAACP is reeling munities, or will we con- Oftentimes we use the other cheek when we and certainly uncondi- off of a very successful tinue the excuse that we words carelessly, not saw them doing wrong. tional Christian love ought 2017 Freedom Fund Cele- can’t do business with our thinking about the impact Too many homes have to abide there as well. bration, but many are ask- own? our words may have on been knocked down and Being your brother’s ing what’s next? Meaning That notion continues others. We give folks what boarded-up simply be- and sister’s keeper doesn’t what is next in our commu- to perpetuate that we are they want to hear, not nec- cause we didn’t fight to mean you have to be a nity’s pursuit of changing not professional business essarily what they need to preserve our rich history. blood relative, it just the narrative about how we people in spite of the know. This unhealthy prac- In 2012, President means you have to have see ourselves as a commu- NAACP’s successful en- tice has led to a broken Barack Obama challenged compassion and empathy nity of people of color, or counters with over 20 and divided culture. an entire nation to start for your fellow man. It will we simply pat ourselves African-American owned As a black man living in looking out for a brother means you care enough to on the back and continue businesses. said, “There is no better a white-male dominated when he launched the My put aside the individual with business as usual. What is next in our pur- than adversity. Every de- society, the thing that Brother’s Keeper initiative. “me” for a collective “we.” What is next in estab- suit of acknowledging and feat, every heartbreak, seems to hurt me the most The task force quickly got Being your brother’s lishing expectations of ex- exalting longtime and com- every loss, contains its own is when I see members of to work by launching pro- and sister’s keeper ex- cellence that regardless of mitted service, or will we seed, its own lesson on how our village tearing one an- grams in cities across the tends far beyond race, so- the size of our events or be content in just acknowl- to improve your perform- other down with their nation that were aimed at cial class or zip code. our event’s purpose, will edging our close circle of ance the next time.” words and actions. It’s al- breaking down the barri- Being your brother’s and we take great care in ensur- friends? Over the last 20 most like we’ve gotten ers our youth face and sister’s keeper might even ing our messaging and What is next for the months, the St. Peters- comfortable living with a bringing communities of mean raising a child that marketing is meaningful more than 20 African- burg Branch NAACP has “crab in the bucket” men- color closer together. doesn’t belong to you. and purposeful or will we American business owners taken its defeat of being tality. The City of St. Peters- Being your brother’s and be content in throwing that rose to the occasion suspended and used it as A people who were burg’s Not My Son cam- sister’s keeping requires something together and ex- when given the opportunity an opportunity to do bet- once independent and paign works in partnership you to step out on faith and pecting the community to and access to perform, or ter. It is within that spirit united against injustice with the St. Petersburg Po- do what’s right, even in support it with their limited do we simply pat them on that we hope those that at- and intolerance, have now lice Department to fight times of adversity. resources? the back and revert back to tended the 2017 Freedom become ostracized by one crime in our neighbor- So my question to you What is next in our pur- the notion that our white Fund Celebration use as a another. In times like hoods by promoting posi- today is, “Are you your suit of ensuring that when- brother’s and sister’s ice is model of our obligations these, how do we get back tive achievement amongst brother’s and sister’s ever possible as individuals, colder? to do better! to being that village that young males between the keeper?” organizations and One whom I look to for Maria L. Scruggs, Presi- once looked out for our ages of 12-24. Programs God bless, churches, will we be inten- wisdom in many life situa- dent, St. Petersburg Branch brothers and sisters? like this help to establish Corey Givens Jr. tional on supporting the tions is Malcolm X, who NAACP 4 THE WEEKLY CHALLENGER, THURSDAY, JUNE 29, 2017 COMMUNITY NEWS SPC EMT program begins enrollment Just T.H.I.N.K.

BY JEFFREY ZANKER BY DEXTER MCCREE She trained in public Staff Writer Feature Writer speaking with Toast Mas- ter International, and she ST. PETERSBURG – The ST. PETERSBURG – aims is to prepare youth St. Petersburg College There is a passion burn- to be confident and (SPC) Midtown campus will ing inside of Erin McFar- sound communicators start accepting applications ley that will not allow her with a vast audience of for the Emergency Medical to be satisfied with just people. Technician (EMT) Spring living. It feels like a thirst McFarley designed a 2018 program July 1. that cannot be quenched presentation called In preparation, the Mid- by a high-paying job or T.H.I.N.K. This town campus is holding two even operating her own acronym challenges the information sessions on the schedule being self-em- participants to consider EMT Certification program ployed. the following when com- on July 13 from 12-1 p.m. and The fire that burns municating a message: July 18 from 5-6 p.m. for cur- within her provokes Mc- Is it True? Is it Helpful? rent and prospective stu- Farley to make an impact Is it Inspiring? Is it Nec- as young ladies,” said dents. on young girls, teaching essary? Is it Kind? The information ses- them to embrace being “A lot of our kids are McFarley. The girls re- sions will include a Power- “queens in training.” so consumed with the in- ally enjoyed that part of Point presentation on the “I have always wanted ternet, their apps and the course. I was able to program and services, fol- ways to invest back into electronics that they for- show them some model- low by a question and an- the community that in- get how to properly inter- ing stances and poses to swer discussion and vested and molded me as act with one another,” help our future young registration. a young child,” said Mc- she stated. queens.” The EMT program is Farley, who felt she had McFarley was ap- Initially, it may be part of SPC’s Emergency to do something that proached by other youth challenging to get stu- Medical Services (EMS) would be useful to young leaders to address the dents and some adults to program that trains students has students studying in 10- In the spring of 2016, girls’ futures. lost art of communica- accept change, but once for careers as emergency week classes, followed by in- eight students graduated Growing up, she re- tion, and after some she shows them how medical technicians or para- ternships and on-the-job from the Midtown EMT pro- counted many different thought, she decided to easy it is to present them- medics. The two positions training for the last six gram. But the 2017 term was organizations and people develop workshops to ap- selves, they are all in. Mc- are known as emergency re- weeks. canceled last spring due to that helped the youth in proach the subject for Farley believes that sponders, who are the first “Students can complete low attendance. the community. Now girls between the ages of confidence is the key to people on the scene of an the EMT program in one se- “Six students were not those groups are needed 7 and 17. everything that is done in emergency. mester,” Davis said. quite enough to get rolling,” more than ever with the Using the T.H.I.N.K life and it is important to “The center wanted to ex- The program also offers Johnson said. trying times the young model, McFarley de- build it up in our chil- pand their courses out to the a combined Kerry Carter, career and ladies are growing up in. signed her workshop to dren. community,” said Glenn Firefighter/EMT program, academic advisor for the “I think that anything consist of three parts: Ensuring that youths Davis, the program’s director. as part of the SPC Firefight- Midtown campus, expect to positive and useful to- public speaking, eti- have the proper tools to Along with the SPC’s ing Academy for a certified have at least 20 to 30 appli- wards their future is awe- quette and runway mod- be great, successful lead- Health Education Center firefighting career. cants for the upcoming se- some,” she said. “We all eling. ers and entrepreneurs of (HEC) in Pinellas Park, Before registration, ap- mester. have a responsibility. I The approach is to tomorrow is the best gift where healthcare training plicants must take a general “We want to keep this just want to do my part.” have fun and learn at the a parent can give. Imag- programs are held, the Mid- CPR training class and be- program going for inter- McFarley founded same time. Once the ine a community with town campus is the only come certified. Classes are ested students,” Johnson Rising Phoenix Group, a knowledge begins to sink McFarley’s passion for other campus that offers the taken online at American said. consulting organization in, the girls will begin to not allowing its members EMT course. Heart Association, American The enrollment deadline that trains youth leaders gain confidence in them- to be satisfied with just For graduates, this pro- Red Cross or the HEC. is September 15. For addi- in the areas of public selves. Her latest work- living. Imagine a thirst gram is a gateway for entry- Other requirements in- tional information, contact speaking, self-confi- shop with Pretty Young that cannot be quenched level jobs at hospitals or local clude being at least 18 years Glenn Davis at dence, PowerPoint pre- Bosses, Inc., a non-profit until there is a whole fire departments. old, background check, [email protected] sentations and public organization for young community of trained “Paramedics is the next drug screening, immuniza- or 727-341-3680. EMT appli- etiquette. She was previ- ladies, proved her theory kings and queens. Just step for most graduates,” tion records, lab testing and cations are available on ously a director of educa- well. T.H.I.N.K.! said James Johnson, career physical tests. The National www.spcollege.edu/hec/ap- tion and instructor at “I think that it is im- To reach Dexter Mc- and academic advisor for University of Health Sci- plication/apply. To register Barbizon Modeling portant to know how to Cree, email dmccree@the- Midtown campus. ences at HEC will provide for CPR certification, contact School as well as John present yourself properly weeklychallenger.com The 16-week-program free testing. HEC at 727-341-3656. Casablanca.

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MUSEUM , from front page showed his friends back in said he came out to some of made him decide it was about a party that night. while attending drama cause she was black and fe- California photos from his the people there but admit- time to come out to his par- “‘You’re coming, right? school at the Royal Acad- male. son’s union ceremony. ted “it was scary.” ents, and that’s exactly what You’re gay, right?’” Greer re- emy in London. “Now do I really want to Clark said he didn’t Dunlap grew up in he did. Once he knew his called her coworker ask- He “found his voice” add another one? So I could come out to his parents Gary, Ind., and recalled parents were behind him, ing, “and I was like, ‘Yep!’ I through the writer and es- actually get the door really while he was living at home, there was a lot of “hush- he said, everyone else had didn’t hesitate, I didn’t think pecially identified with his slammed in my face?” she but believes his parents al- toned talking” when it came to “fall in line.” about it. I was like, ‘You got 1956 novel “Giovanni’s said. ways knew. to identifying people as He said he looks at him- me!’ So I went out and I re- Room,” with its homosexual Clark said he looks at One person who always gay. At the age of seven, self as a journalist who hap- member that being the themes. He was amazed at himself as a black man who knew was his grandmother, Dunlap said she realized pens to be black and who most fun and the most re- how someone could write a happens to be gay, and he said. On the phone with she was probably not like happens to be gay. laxed and open that I’ve book about a gay romance, never felt the need to ex- her one day, he tried ex- the others but was clueless “It’s a part of me, it’s not ever been.” and the first play Jones plain his sexuality to plaining to her why he about her sexuality. the whole sum of me,” he Then came the hierar- wrote was about James coworkers or others upon couldn’t attend a family re- “My elder sister Pauline said. chy of whom to tell, Greer Baldwin. meeting them. union in Columbus, Ga. His was the one who told me Greer said she grew up said. She then told her older Pettiford, who was in a “I didn’t need to walk grandmother ended the that I was gay,” Dunlap said. in Milwaukee thinking she sister, then her younger sis- fraternity in college and into the room and when phone conversation saying, Pettiford said “gay didn’t was “just weird,” an “intro- ter, and when she finally played sports, said he went they ask me what my name “Why are you hiding it from even come to mind” until his vert” and even “anti-social.” had the conversation with through an “evolution” was say, ‘I’m Desmond anyone else? You can’t hide senior year at college. In the “You know how you say her mother, her mother where he immersed him- Clark and I’m gay,’” he said, it from God.” late 1980s, he got his first job someone’s extremely ho- said she’d always thought self in the gay lifestyle and adding that though he That was all the “bless- in television in his home- mophobic because they’re so, but was hurt that Greer community and lessened never felt he needed to an- ing” Clark needed to hear, town where his mother was secretly gay? I was one hadn’t opened up to her his involvement with some nounce it, he never felt com- he said, to feel that it was an elected official. He admit- of those,” she said, speaking sooner. aspects of his life before he pelled to hide it either. OK to be gay. In the Air ted he was “so afraid” of of her high school years. “I People weren’t always came out, then finally Addressing the differ- Force at the time and sta- being exposed as a gay man was rude and mean and did as accepting of the LGBTQ learned to balance them. ence between “secret” and tioned in Korea, Clark re- he would even go out of anything that I could to sort community and its mem- “I’ve come to that point “private,” Greer noted that called that there were some town to go to a gay bar. of separate me from them, bers as they are today, and now where it’s all together,” “secret” implies someone is dormitories where the beds It wasn’t until he left right? All the while having a Jones, who grew up in the he said. “I feel like a whole hiding something, while had been pushed together, Dayton, Ohio, and took a crush on one of them.” 1950s and 1960s, said that person now.” “private” merely refers to a as there were gays in the job at WFTV in Orlando Greer said she didn’t back then the word wasn’t Dunlap said there defi- part of someone’s life that military. Even though the that Pettiford had his com- come out until she moved “gay” but “sissy” or “punk.” nitely was an evolution for he or she can share if so government hesitated to ing out, he said. He soon away from her hometown As he didn’t play sports her. It wasn’t until she compelled. fully recognize this, it made discovered that he wasn’t and her family. At graduate as a youngster, Jones said moved to Florida in 1999 “All of us need to make Clark feel better and the only on-air gay male at school in , she said that cast an “immediate sus- that she felt she could finally sure we lay claim to what is not think that he was alone. the station. she finally felt “exhausted” picion” on him. What breathe. As a professor in private,” she said, “because Upon his return to the “All of a sudden I wasn’t from lying and trying “to fig- changed his life was discov- Indiana and then in Mis- the lines are blurring more States, he was stationed at alone,” Pettiford said, ure things out.” One Friday ering African-American au- souri, Dunlap said she and more.” MacDill Air Force Base and adding that this experience night a coworker told Greer thor James Baldwin couldn’t really be “out” be-

Mhariel Summers feels L-R, Bob Devin Jones, Desmond Clark, “If you’re proud of yourself and Georgette Josephs, 34, was disowned she is of a newer Lillian Dunlap, Trevor Pettiford you respect yourself and others, by her siblings she raised when she generation than the and Sheree Greer you already have a foot up,” told them she was a lesbian. panelist and thanked said Julius Griffin, who was first them for paving the way. called gay in the first grade. 6 THE WEEKLY CHALLENGER, THURSDAY, JUNE 29, 2017 COMMUNITY NEWS July 4th Block Party to celebrate African families, music and art

ST. PETERSBURG – home-style breakfast. cated to defending the “What to a slave is the 4th Next Tuesday, July 4, At noon, the outdoor human and civil rights of of July? A day that reveals WBPU Black Power 96.3 fun begins. Families are the African community to him, more than all other FM will host a day of activ- invited to spend their day and addressing the grave days in the year, the gross ities called the “African together with outdoor disparities in health, edu- injustice and cruelty to Nation Family Reunion kids’ activities, indoor cation and economic de- which he is the constant Block Party” to celebrate card games and enjoying velopment faced by this victim.” and unify south St. Peters- the BBQ, tacos, desserts, community. According to station burg’s African commu- arts, jewelry and body Black Power 96 serves manager Diakiesse nity. care products offered by the interests of St. Peters- Lungisani, “Black people The festivities will community vendors. Later burg’s black community, are still brutalized and op- begin with an awards in the afternoon, local not the far away big corpo- pressed by this system. brunch at 10 a.m. to honor singers, rappers and musi- rate interests of iHeart or Let’s turn this 4th of July African community lead- cians will take the stage to CBS. This small station into a day where we can ers in the field of media provide live entertain- with studios at the Uhuru come together and build and journalism that have ment. House provides free train- the strength of our com- port your local black com- celebration, to get Brunch carried on the tradition of WBPU Black Power ing in professional broad- munity so that we can re- munity radio station!” tickets or to volunteer Marcus Garvey and Ida B. 96.3 FM radio is south St. casting and access to the ally get free!” The African Nation with the radio station, visit Wells-Barnett in building Petersburg’s only black- radio airwaves for our Diakiesse encourages Family Reunion Block blackpower96.or, call 727- independent black owned owned radio station. The local talent, organizations families throughout St. Pe- Party will take place at the 914-3614 or stop by the and controlled media insti- newest project of the non- and businesses. tersburg to “come by the Uhuru House, located at station Monday to Friday tutions. Popular local profit African People’s Ed- The great African ora- station on July 4th. Tour 1245 18th Ave. S in St. Pe- between 9-5 p.m. caterer Heavy’s will pro- ucation and Defense tor and abolitionist Fred- the studio. Get involved. tersburg. For more infor- vide a delicious soul food Fund, the station is dedi- erick Douglass asked: Sign up for training. Sup- mation on the July 4th

Ding-ding-ding! The fight for District 6 has begun!

ST. PETERSBURG — paign donation into his to gather we get heavy po- black community, so I The SEIU’s People’s personal account. He was lice presence that resem- need a candidate that sup- Budget Review held a also referencing the mat- bles Iraq or Afghanistan. ports reparations. Can local forum Thursday, ter in 2012 that brought to So what are y’all going to you speak to that?” June 15 at The Sunshine light he exaggerated his do to stop that?” Jesse Nevel, the may- Center so that the nine education while running “We need to come up oral candidate running District 6 candidates for the School Board. with a strategy to help the along with Cainion on the could have an opportunity Maria Scruggs was homeless,” one woman platform of unity through to hear the concerns of visibly nervous as she said. reparations, asked the the community. stated: “I will say to all, A young Gibbs High candidates, “What will The open forum this is a race for School student remarked, you do to end the legacy quickly became a battle student...for city council, “Last year Alton Witchard of gentrification, land royal. Most candidates not student council.” was murdered outside of grabbing and police con- were fighting in the inter- Scruggs was taking an ob- my house and due to gen- tainment represented by est of prime real estate vious stab at the youngest trification, a month later Karl Nurse?” while others were en- candidate, 20-year-old my family was forced out Sadly, most candidates gaged in a vested struggle Eritha Akile Cainion who of our home. So what are ignored the plight of the against police violence was student body presi- y’all going to do to stop roomful of citizens and and gentrification. dent at St. Petersburg Col- gentrification?” continued to mudsling During introductions, legiate High School in The crowd consis- and defend their public it was clear that some can- 2015. tently presented com- image. didates did not come to When the floor was ments and questions that Scruggs again re- address the people but to given to the citizens, one centered on concerns ferred to 30 years of sive rhetoric, with Scott campaign will define the sling mud at one another 30-year-veteran of the about police harassment, “proven results” including saying, “I understand my future of the black com- and cover up their recent school system asked the a failing school system her work as the president ancestors hurt your an- munity in District 6. scandalous conduct. candidates what they and the attacks from gen- of the NAACP. To prove cestors…but now it’s time Concerned citizen Jor- Corey Givens, Jr. were going to do to pro- trification. A slew of com- that she has fought for to hold hands.” Givens, Jr. dan Smith, 16, was asked opened by stating, “Many tect the students of south menters also asked the black interests, Scruggs replied that it is “unrea- why he thought so many of you already know me St. Pete against police ha- candidates if they could cited her decision to move sonable” and “too radical.” people showed up for the and if you don’t know me rassment. state their stance on repa- the Freedom Fund “Uniting the people forum. His response was perhaps you’ve read alle- One concerned rations to the black com- fundraising dinner from means addressing the in- simply: “They say black gations about me…” He African-American mother munity. downtown to the black justice and oppression people don’t vote but the continued sternly, “I’ve said, “I noticed other An elderly Caucasian community. faced by our community,” real issue is that black addressed it!” races get to gather freely woman said, “I know that Robert Blackmon, Jim stated Cainion. people have never had Givens was referenc- without a military police our white communities Jackson, Givens, Jr. and The debate was clear anything to vote for. Well, ing the recent reports of presence at functions, but have been systematically James Scott responded from the packed room now we do.” him putting a $500 cam- when black people want built at the expense of the that the question was divi- and the exuberance of the The Primary Election over 200 people that this is Aug. 29. Juneteenth at Gallerie 909

BY ALLEN A. from ages five and up par- getting their freedom and story about Juneteenth by from Lealman Avenue Ele- were: E’Shanti Page (1st BUCHANAN ticipated in the competi- for white people not hav- drawing a picture of black mentary not only depicted Place), Anthonio Newton Staff Writer tion by responding to the ing slaves,” said Kyla, who people finally getting their the slaves being freed, he (2nd Place) and Oksana following prompt: What is came up with the idea freedom. had Lincoln doing the bulk Green (3rd Place). The ST. PETERSBURG – the meaning of freedom from reading historical ac- Janyah Shubert, a of the work. winners in the nine to Gallerie 909 celebrated in the context of June- counts. fifth-grade student from “He was standing and twelve-year-old category Juneteenth through the teenth? Eight-year-old A’rayla Campbell Park Elemen- was taking the cuffs off of were Destinee Pollock lens of culture and art as Four students at YAC Davis of Perkins Elemen- tary, went down a more all the slaves’ arms.” (1st Place), A’rayla Davis it pertains to the local shared their thinking tary said, “To me freedom metaphorical path. The art competition (2nd Place) and Zoe King community. process as they began and means Abraham Lincoln “My picture was about expanded the reach of (3rd Place). The Juneteenth Free- completed their drawings. is unlocking the chains so a bird being free from Juneteenth into not only First place winners re- dom Festival concluded Kyla Tearett, a 12-year- black people can be free being cramped up inside the YAC but also into the ceived $25, second place Monday, June 19 with a old student at Bay Point and white people don’t of a cage. What it meant Pinellas County Schools. received $15 and third viewing of original art pro- Middle School depicted a have slaves. In my paint- was how African Ameri- The paintings by the place received $10. All duced by local kids in the war symbol with two ing, the people are lined cans who were working in youths captivated the at- participants received a Youth Arts Corp (YAC) swords, a shield and two up in chains and there’s a one small area in the tention of those who came certificate of participation housed at the Thomas arms breaking free from door. A person breaks the fields, but once the slaves out to the final activity of and a pizza party for doing “Jet” Jackson Recreation the shield. chains and the people are were freed, their wings this year’s Juneteenth cel- an outstanding job. Center. The project part- “I pretend that’s free- freed.” fluttered and they had ebration. To reach Allen Buchanan, nered with Paulette Jones’ dom because the war bat- A’rayla liked the idea room to move.” The winners in the five email abuchanan@theweekly- Midtown Celebrity Club. tles consumed the slaves of being able to create a Nine-year-old E. Walls to eight-year-old category challenger.com Over a dozen students THE WEEKLY CHALLENGER, THURSDAY, JUNE 29, 2017 7 COMMUNITY NEWS AKA Sorority members fan out for Alzheimer’s awareness

ST. PETERSBURG — “Game Night” for the com- On Wednesday, June 21, munity at Creole Café to members of the Zeta Up- support and increase silon Omega Chapter of awareness of Alzheimer’s Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, disease and those suffering Incorporated® spent The from the disease. Longest Day® volunteering For more information at two local nursing home about Alzheimer’s disease centers to raise awareness prevention, visit about Alzheimer’s disease www.ALZ.org. prevention. About Alpha Kappa Aligned with the soror- Alpha Sorority, Inc. ity’s national program Alpha Kappa Alpha thrust of Launching New Sorority, Inc. is an interna- Dimensions of Service, tional service organization sorority members from comprised of more than across the globe joined the 290,000 members in 1005 effort to make a collective graduate and undergradu- impact in supporting the ate chapters abroad. The Alzheimer’s Association. local chapter, Zeta Upsilon Throughout the day, Omega Chapter of Alpha members devoted count- Kappa Alpha Sorority, less hours serving the resi- founded in December 1955, dents at Baywood Nursing established the Youth De- and Addington Place at Col- velopment Foundation of lege. Both facilities serve a Pinellas County Inc., a diverse Alzheimer popula- 501(c) 3, non-profit organi- tion. During the day of zation. The mission of the service, members sung foundation is to enhance the songs, played games and quality of life for targeted spent time conversing with youth and families in Pinel- the patients. las County through pro- Sorority members cul- grams and services. minated The Longest Day® For more information of activities by hosting a free visit www.zuochapter.org.

Rick and Rick duke it out!

MAYOR, from front page those selling drugs and ognizes the history of the 400 people will be sleep- that’s a reason he’s intro- plained, Kriseman aims to man had said it would be also prostitution. He said Manhattan Casino, but ing, not on the street, but duced the service-learn- divide everyone.” built by 2015. He also that Kriseman has since isn’t there for a year or getting transition care, ing program, where Kriseman said he noted that the pier design eliminated this unit and two years or three years, being connected to their college students act as tu- doesn’t try to hide the fact that the people voted “merged/eliminated” but that 10 years from families, getting social tors and mentors to high that he is a Democrat and for—designed by three the auto theft unit and an now it’s still open and its services, that is social jus- school students. that his party affiliation re- local architects—is not auto theft “epidemic” fol- popular and people still tice.” Baker said he had his flects his values. the one they’re going to lowed. have the resources to Kriseman said Baker own programs in the “My party believes in get. “I will put both of spend there. Building a blamed an employee for schools, such as a school- Obamacare…”My party In his closing state- those units back in place,” house of cards doesn’t do the tents slashing debacle pairing program that in- believes that felons’ rights ment, Baker underscored he said. us any good that col- and Baker said Kriseman volved tutoring and even should be restored and his desire to improve With Baker as mayor, lapses.” dumped 200 million gal- financial help to students. that kids should be given schools and make the buildings were put up Baker said the build- lons of sewage into the The reality is, he said, that a second chance.” community safer. Krise- along the 22nd Street ings that went up during bay and “blamed every- the students that are In regards to millions man reiterated that this South corridor, but his administration are im- body on the planet that he going to schools in south being spent on the Pier, election is about the fu- he laments now the fact portant, and he wants to can possibly blame.” St. Pete are going to Kriseman explained that ture of the city and the di- that Sylvia’s and other continue to bring that to The two traded jabs so school with a different set through multiple commu- rection we want to go. places of business have Midtown, notably a gro- much that audience mem- of resources than students nity forums, the people of In a straw poll con- closed or moved out due cery store again. ber Ashley Green asked in other parts of the com- St. Pete made it clear that ducted, Baker received to “inattention.” Audience member both Ricks to be respect- munity. The school board they still want a pier. and 114 votes and Krise- Kriseman said that if Theresa Jones wanted to ful to one another. should be put on notice, Though Baker agrees that man received 48. Primary people don’t have the re- know how Baker has “This is the pettiest Baker said, as that the city should have a pier, Election is held Tuesday, sources or are not making changed since 2007 when back and forth snipes than is something that has to he pointed out that Krise- Aug. 29. the money to be able to the slashing of homeless I’ve ever witnessed,” she change. spend at Sylvia’s, Sweet- people’s tents happened said. “These schools have bay or Walmart, those on his watch. Ten-year-old Shanyjah to have the same re- businesses are not going “It was a mistake,” said Williams asked Kriseman sources,” he said. to survive on 22nd Street. Baker. “It shouldn’t have what his plans are to get Baker said Kriseman “We’ve been focused been done because it put the teachers to care more is attempting to make it a not just on buildings but us in a bad light, and it about schools on the partisan race because “he on creating the jobs,” he made us feel like we’re at- south side of town. doesn’t have a lot to show stated. “And so what we tacking the homeless,” he Kriseman maintained for what he’s done the want for Sylvia’s is some- said, noting that what that changing the environ- last three and a half thing that’s sustainable, came out of the incident ment in the classroom is years.” By making this a that recognizes the his- was the creation of Pinel- important in improving Democrats versus Repub- tory of that building, rec- las Hope, “where tonight education, he said, noting licans race, Baker ex-

Tammie Fields Theresa Jones Ashley Green Shanyjah Williams

BUSINESS DIRECTORY                    Call TODAY for an appointment       Phone: 727-894-1734   2500 9th Street South, St. Petersburg, FL 33705 LOOK NO FURTHER BE SURE TO FOR CHURCH SUPPLIES Communion Items • Choir Robes Bulletins • Bibles • Sunday School books CHECK OUT Gospel CDs / DVDs and so much more Reader’s Choice Book & Gift Store OUR ‘WEBSITE! 4341 34th St. S., St. Petersburg (Next to Skyway Mall) TheWeeklyChallenger.com (727) 867-3696 Open: Mon. - Sat. 10 am - 6:30 pm 8 THE WEEKLY CHALLENGER, THURSDAY, JUNE 29, 2017 PRIDE PARADE 2017 THE WEEKLY CHALLENGER, THURSDAY, JUNE 29, 2017 9 COMMUNITY NEWS 27 years of celebrating men of faith in the community FAITH, from front page wrong? Are you ready to brother’s keeper, he running with her two kids “Think about how you way, said Williams, who is Awards were presented to take that challenge?” pointed out. in the vehicle, explaining got where you got in this due to retire in January. Bro. John Muhammad, Even if community The path of life for that she was only going to world and think about how “I am comfortable Principal Nikita Reed, Vin- members believe its own everyone has detours, he be gone “for a minute.” many people helped you knowing that as a citizen of cent Leeroy Smith, Eddie police department is doing explained, and there is “Thank God no one get there,” he stated. “The the city of St. Petersburg,” Lewis (posthumously), something wrong, they often a reason. People can paid for that minute,” Hol- question is: what have you he said, “we have a leader Eddie Tolliver, the Theta should step up and speak use detours, or mistakes, loway said. “When are we done to help someone in the police department Eta Lambda Chapter of out. to help others find the going to talk to the parents get where they are?” who goes about the busi- Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity “I don’t want either right path and avoid their about that?” Assistant Chief Luke ness of ensuring the safety and the St. Petersburg Po- man or woman that’s out own deviations. Holloway Referencing the city’s Williams, who has worked of the community, the lice Department. there doing something said he is tired of putting auto theft epidemic, Hol- with seven police chiefs safety of the officers he Rev. Curtiss Long is wrong wearing our young loway said when your 14 during his time on the leads, and more impor- the senior pastor of New badge,” Holloway said, to in jail. He spoke directly to year old comes home in a force, said Holloway was tantly, focuses on the fair Faith Free Methodist applause. members of his generation better car than yours, you the “absolute best chief treatment and the unbi- Church. Passing along sets of and said, “When are we should step up and talk to that I have worked with.” ased protection of the peo- To reach Frank Drouzas, skills or even being friends going to step up?” him. He encouraged Holloway has trans- ple we are sworn to email fdrouzas@theweekly- to those who are alone are He spoke of a young everyone to be a formed the St. Pete Police serve.” challenger.com also ways to be your mother who left her car “brother’s keeper.” Department in a positive Community Service

Eddie Tolliver received Bro. John Muhammad Principal Nikita Reed received Vincent Leeroy Smith the Community Service received the Community the Community Service Award received the Community Award for his work Service Award for his for turning Melrose Elementary Service Award for work with the youth. grassroots organizing and School into a “C” school from with children, his community outreach. a failing school in one year. fraternity and the church. 10 THE WEEKLY CHALLENGER, THURSDAY, JUNE 29, 2017 CHURCH DIRECTORY

                       Sunday School 9:30 a.m.  Praise Time 10:45 a.m.   Morning Worship 10:45 a.m.  Tuesday Night Live -   Prayer Service & Bible Study 7 p.m.        Come Worship With the First Baptist Family  

        

                         

Queen Street Church of God in Christ Elder Willie Williamson, Pastor First Lady, Patricia Williamson 1732 9th Avenue South St. Petersburg, FL 33712 727-896-4356 SERVICES Sunday Sunday School – 9:30 a.m. A. M. Service – 11 a.m. Tuesday Morning Prayer – 9 to 10 a.m. Wednesday YPWW Bible Study – 7:30 p.m.

Victory Christian Center Church             Sunday Worship* 10:30 a.m.  Wednesday Bible Study* -7:00 p.m.  Friday Prayer -7:00 p.m. 1601 49th Street South  Intercessory Prayer - 9:00 a.m.    Gulfport, FL 33707 Victory Christian Center is a Word of Faith Church. 727.898.5571 For more information about the other services and   Sunday Worship  ministries at Victory Christian Center, please call (727) 321-0911. 10:30 a.m.      Call: 727-896-2922 BETHEL COMMUNITY BAPTIST CHURCH 2901 - 54th Avenue South St. Petersburg, FL. 33712 (727) 866-2567 SERVICES Sunday School: 8:30 a.m. Sunday Worship Service: 9:30 a.m. Bible Study: Wednesdays

  at 6:30 p.m.

 Contact: 727-896-2922 THE WEEKLY CHALLENGER, THURSDAY, JUNE 29, 2017 11 CHURCH DIRECTORY

        SUNDAY SERVICES/WEEKLY ACTIVITIES                                       Van service is available by calling: (727) 327-0015    THE ROCK OF JESUS IS LOCATED AT: 3940 – 18th AVE. S., St. Petersburg, Florida  Telephone: 727-327-0015 • Fax: 727-327-0021   Email: [email protected]  Office Hours: Tues. & Thurs. 10 a.m. - 5 p.m. 

  City of Refuge Christian Church  “Come Experience the Breath of God That Giveth Life”    13272 66th Street North, Largo, FL    813-573-5044 • www.cityofrefugefl.org

  Pastor Dr. Jerome D. Jordan & Pastor Kisha Jordan  Sunday Morning Worship 11:00 a.m.  Tuesday night Let's Go Deeper Bible Study at 7:00 p.m     INTERNATIONAL TELEVISION SHOW'S ON 2 DIFFERENT NETWORK  Real Talk with Kisha Jordan Monday nights at 10:30 p.m.  on Cable, Roku, all smart phones & on www.preachthewordnetwork.com  Saturday nights at 8:00 p.m Cable, Roku all smart phones & on www.thenownetwork.org   For more info please go to www.kishajordanenterprises.org CHURCH NEWS Friendship MBC St. Mark MBC THIS IS YOUR INVITA- stopped by to show their sup- WEST COAST BAPTIST The St. Mark Missionary 7 p.m. @ St. Mark Young Adult Ministry TION TO THE CHURCH port, the Mt. Zion Progressive DISTRICT ASSOCIATION Baptist Church, its pastor, the In July... (YAMS) Every Sunday: 9:30 WHERE WE KNOW “IT'S Drumline, (Thought I could CONGRESS – HOST Reverend Brian K. Brown, its Jul 4 - Independence a.m. JUST NICE TO BE NICE” - hear a little of that FAMU HOTEL INFORMATION: official staff of Deacons and Day – Church Office Closed Children and Youth Min- COME TO THE SHIP AND sound. And from our Sister Reservation cut-off date is, Trustees, and the entire con- Jul 9 -Church Outing: istry Meetings are held every SEE FOR YOURSELF - Church, Bethel Metropolitan... Monday, June 27, 2017 – Stay- gregation, extends to the com- Gethsemane M. B. Church – Tuesday at 6:00 p.m. Children June at the Ship Dea. Dana Pittman, Dea. bridge Suites-St. Petersburg, munity at large, its wish that 3:30 p.m. Celebration of An- in the community are wel- Join US at “The Ship” at Dozier Holmes and Rev. Alvin Downtown, 940 5th Avenue there would be an overflowing nual Dual Day Service comed to join us. the 7:45 am or 10:45 am Wor- Moore, God Bless you. All to South, St. Petersburg, 33705. of God’s blessings upon their Jul 17-21 - Progressive M Mime/Praise Dance Re- ship Service, a Real place to be the Ship: Our Security Team We have secured 20 studio lives. St. Mark is grounded in & E Baptist Convention, Innis- hearsal on Sundays: 2:00-4:00 for these Real times who gave direction, Our Grill suites at $119.00 per night, July a Christ-centered doctrine brook Resort, Palm Harbor p.m. 89th CHURCH ANNIVER- Masters... Bro. Fred Winters, 17-21, 2017. You may also call that has as its central core, the Jul 26-28 - Congress No. 2 Sunday School Teachers’ SARY FREE TO ALL “THE Bro. Otis Blair and Bro. Jesse (855) 914-1821, use Booking belief that we are a haven of – Host Church TBA Meeting is held every Tues- COOKOUT”... Nesbitt, they were all WIN- Code WCB (West Coast Bap- hope, help, and healing for a Jul 30 - Mission Emphasis day: 7:00 p.m. Saturday, June 24, 2017- NERS, the Laymen, especially, tist Association). Minister lost world hungry and thirsty during Morning Worship Op- Senior Hour of Power THANKS YOU ST. PETERS- Bro. Albert Reed, Dea. & Sis. Sharon Saulsby, Dean of the for the word of God. At St. eration Love/Visitations at Bible Study is held every BURG COMMUNITY FOR Peterson, Deaconesses Daven- Congress. The Host Church: Mark, we as a body of believ- conclusion of Worship Serv- Wednesday: 9:30 a.m. JOINING IN OUR 89TH port and Henderson, for Man- Friendship Missionary Mis- ers are Christians willing to ices Prayer Meeting and Bible CHURCH ANNIVERSARY ning the Mess Hall, special sionary Baptist Church, Dr. work and partner in unity, Sunday school held for Study every Wednesday “THE COOKOUT” CELE- special Laymen, Dea. Robert John A. Evans, Sr., Senior Pas- praising God for the awesome both children and adults of all evening: 7:00 p.m. BRATION – On behalf of the Henderson, Dea. Leon Dun- tor/Moderator, 3300 31st gift of His son, Jesus Christ. ages. Sunday school starts Children Youth Ministry 89th Church Anniversary bar, Dea. Greg Perkins, and Street South, St. Petersburg, Events for June each Sunday morning at 9:30 Bible Study 1st & 3rd Committee, Dr. John A. the one with 15 jobs. To all of Florida 33712. June 30 - St. Mark a.m. All are invited to come Wednesday of each month: Evans., Sr., Pastor, Sis. Darlene the Ministries who stepped out “THE SHIP” won't sail Monthly Business Meeting – out and join us. 7:30 p.m. Sumbry, Bro. Eland Wilson, of their comfort zone and without YOU! For additional Chairs, Min. Chan Srinivasa, worked together as Groups, information on any of the an- Sis. Florence Westley, Co- Thank You and our Special Vol- nouncements, please contact Chairs, and the Committee unteers for this Event, Thank us by the following methods: Members, Special Thanks: You. We never would have Friendship Missionary Baptist Walmart and Publix Southside made it without YOU. Church, 3300 31st St. S, St. Pe- Stores, Rev. Watson Haynes, WEDNESDAY, JULY 5, tersburg, FL 33712 Church Of- UL, City of St. Pete: Nikki 2017 AT 7:00 PM – fice: 727-906-8300 E-Mail: Capehart (Tom Skirchak), Jett “WEDNESDAY NIGHT [email protected] Jackson, the Ice Man, Dea. LIVE,” A FULL WORSHIP Now “Live Streaming”: Dana Pittman (Crew), Fire SERVICE WITH COMMUN- Visit Our Website: www.fmbc- Dept., Police Traffic Control, ION SERVED, THE PASTOR theship.net Visit Our Face- and a full Community Service IS ASKING THE ADULT book page Visit West Coast Team, the children just MASS CHOIR AND MALE Baptist District Association LOVED all of you. Florida CHORUS, ALONG WITH Website: www.expericencethe- BloodOne (Thanks to the Do- THE 2ND SUNDAY USHERS coast.com nators-who's Blood will save TO SERVE. THE LOVE FEL- Need a ride to church? lives), the Black Nurses Asso- LOWSHIP DINNER WILL BE Call our Transportation Min- ciation, P-Tech Student Nurse SPONSORED BY THE TRIBE istry – (727) 906-8300 – Mon. – Team, John Hopkins All Chil- OF ZEBULUN (JUNE), SIS. Fri. from 9 am - 3 pm. dren Hospital, The Fun Busi- TIFFANY HENRY, CAPTAIN “Remember and pray for ness (Bounce Houses, Cotton AND TRIBE OF JOSEPH our men and women in uni- Candy and Snow Cone Ma- (JULY), SISTER BESSIE DAV- form as well as our veterans chines, Nite Riders who just ENPORT, CAPTAINS. this new year!” Pastor’s Corner BY REV. DR. DORAL R. PULLEY, SPIRITUAL LEADER Unity Temple of Truth Church A Feeling Jesus - Hebrews 4:12-16

A Feeling Jesus – Hebrews 4:12-16 ness because he was able to identify his Jesus Christ was a three-fold being – emotions, process them and channel them spirit, soul and body, just as we are. There- in the proper direction. fore, he is qualified to be God’s perfect pat- God is concerned about every aspect of tern for humanity and our example of a our lives. If it concerns us, then it concerns person living a holistically healthy, balanced God. God promised to perfect those things and well-rounded life (John 10:10). Jesus that concern us (Psalm 138:8). We don’t Christ not only relates to us as spiritual be- have to deflect our emotions, suppress them ings but he is also able to identify with us or pretend that we don’t have them. soulish beings. Our soul is composed of the Emotions are gifts from God and are nei- mind (thinking), the heart (feeling), the in- ther right nor wrong. Emotions are energy tellect (processing information) and the will in motion, providing us with the energy nec- (deciding and acting). essary to accomplish the things that we There are four basic human emotions: need to do. When our hearts are over- glad, sad, mad and afraid. All other emo- whelmed with emotions, God is our rock tions are various combinations of these emo- and stabilizing force (Psalm 61:2). We can tions with varying degrees of intensity and cast all of our cares upon God because God duration. Jesus Christ was in touch with his cares for us (I Peter 5:7). emotions. He demonstrated emotional fit- 12 THE WEEKLY CHALLENGER, THURSDAY, JUNE 29, 2017

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