dr. james tucker publisher black farmers honor dr. …africanamericanvoice.net/archives/2014/aavoice...

www.africanamericanvoice.netMay 2014

MAY 2014 FREE

The Voice of African Americans in Colorado

KEEPING THE COMMUNITY INFORMED SINCE 1991

African Proverb:

"It's what you do for others that makes you a happy man or woman."

Inside this Issue:Veterans Affairs and the “Patient Purge List” - 4

Memorial to Honor the 150 Black Women who were

Lynched - 8Civil and Human Rights

Violators - 10

By Benjamin F. Chavis, Jr.

Whenever there is a steady series of public questions being raised about the “power” of Black Americans, you should always first consider the motive and purpose of the questions. Such was the case recently when Richard Prince wrote a column, which was posted on The Root, titled: “Is The Black Press Still Powerful?” Of course the answer

is “Yes, the Black Press in America is still powerful.”

What was the underlying motive for this question being asked? I wonder if Prince, a long-time employee of the Washington Post, has ever written a column titled, “Is The White Press Still Powerful?” I seriously doubt it.

There is a larger contextual reality that also needs to be considered. The truth is that during the past year, there has been a consistent series of so-called “mainstream” news articles, editorials, and blogs that have questioned the relevance, power and legitimacy of Black-owned businesses and institutions.

In addition, during this same time period, the effectiveness and contemporary purpose of our traditional civil rights organizations such as the National Association for the Advancement of Colored People (NAACP) and the Southern Christian Leadership Conference (SCLC) have been

called into question.A few months ago the New York

Times published story that questioned whether Howard University and other Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs) were still relevant and worthy of continued existence.

It is not a mere coincidence that some of these news articles and blogs are being written again by supposedly “well-intentioned” African Americans. We certainly support and defend the right to freedom of the press and the right of all people to express themselves. Of course, the press has the right to be wrong. With that right, however, goes a responsibility not to distort the truth.

This is not about neither freedom of the press nor freedom of speech. This is about the issue of racism and its proclivity to define and question reality. This is about the fact that we still live in a society that continues to

be undergirded by the ideology of White supremacy that presupposes the false notion of Black inferiority. And as long as that is the case, there will be a need for powerful Black institutions.

The Black Church is powerful. The Black Press is powerful. HBCUs are powerful. The NAACP and SCLC

Benjamin F. Chavis, Jr.

The Power of the Black Press

El Paso County Bar Association makes a mockery of the Civil Rights Act of 1964 by recognizing individuals without a history of fighting for Black's civil and human Rights.Executive Director of the El Paso County Bar Association Zelna E. Joseph sent a letter to the African American Voice inviting the Black Press to participate in the 2014 Law Day Luncheon. (Note: Zelna is evil and wicked. She filed false charges against me when I served as President of the Colorado Springs Branch of the NAACP and Colorado Montana Wyoming State Conference of the NAACP.) Did you know? The El Paso County Bar Association promotes Jim Crow economics. The El Paso County Bar Association and Zelna Joseph advertise in “Whites Only” newspapers. True or False? John Suthers, Esq., Colorado attorney general supports civil rights violators. Rita Lewis, Esq. president, NAACP Denver Branch supports Colorado civil rights violators. Yet both are being honored by the El Paso County Bar Association.Shame on the El Paso County Bar Association! Just Say No to NAACP!Dr. James Tucker Publisher

(AAV) - Representatives for Black Independent Farmers from several states held a rally on April 4 at the United States Department of Agriculture office in Montgomery, Alabama. They protested the injustice against Black farmers and the failure of some farmers to receive payment after a federal judge ruled in their favor after suffering

discrimination by the USDA. To date many Black farmers have not been paid. (Pigford v Glickman lawsuit and Pigford II settlement.)

According to Michael Stovall, Secretary of Agriculture Tom Vilsack and the USDA continue to disrespect Black farmers and violate their civil and human rights. Stovall said, “Black

farmers must stand up for justice and fight for future generations.” He acknowledged that too many Black lives have been destroyed and racial discrimination has impacted the livelihood of many Black families. Black farmers represent one percent of farmers in the United States. Black farmers continue to lose land and face

racial discrimination.There has been a long history of racial

discrimination against Black farmers and they continue to face the same problems today:• Lack of civil and human rights

protection by the Federal government.• Denial of loans to assist Black farmers.

Black Farmers Honor Dr. King at Protest Rally and Demand Justice

Continued on page 8

Continued on page 10

Left to Right: Al Hunt, III, Ralph Saunders, Isaac Decatur, Morsie Porter. Evangelist Robert Binion.

Zelna Joseph

Chickens Come Home to Roost

Photos , Ralph Saunders and Morsie Porter

www.africanamericanvoice.net2 May 2014

ED BILLINGS: COLORADO SPRINGS COMICS

Reprinted with permission from Ed Billings

www.africanamericanvoice.net 3 May 2014

COMMUNITY

COLORADO SPRINGS, Colo. — The City of Colorado Springs Housing Development Division announces the release of a new application for funding for the development of affordable housing rental projects.

The application process is open to non-profit and for-profit housing developers seeking funding to assist with the development of affordable rental projects that serve both families and individuals. High priority is placed on projects that serve people with incomes at or below 60 percent of area median income and special needs populations, including permanent supportive housing to serve

homeless persons. Affordable housing development includes new construction, acquisition and rehabilitation. Program guidelines and the application can be found at www.springsgov.com/AffordableRentalHousingDev.

The City is making $2 million available for the program through the Home Investment Partnerships Program (HOME) and $250,000 available through the Community Development Block Grant Program (CDBG). Projects will be awarded on a first-come first-serve basis until funds are exhausted.

These funds are part of a commitment by the City to distribute $5 million in

federal funding over the next two years to improve services, facilities and housing projects as part of the initiative to end homelessness. “We know that access to affordable housing is key to preventing and ending homelessness. It is also critical to building healthy families and serving workforce needs,” said Aimee Cox, Community Initiatives Manager for the City of Colorado Springs. “The new application should help clarify the requirements for using federal block grant dollars for affordable housing projects and build more interest in the program, which we hope will result in more units added to the community’s

permanent affordable housing stock.”The City is currently conducting an

affordable housing needs assessment. The report is due July 31, 2014. The City will use the findings to review current affordable rental housing program guidelines and set priorities for future projects. For more information about the affordable housing rental development program, please contact Beth Diana at 719-385-5341 or [email protected].

City of Colorado Springs www.springsgov.com

Publisher’s note: The City of Colorado Springs doesn’t have a history of supporting major projects in its Black communities. As a representative of Black Communities United for Progress and the Black Press, please keep us informed if you apply for funding. In addition, the City of Colorado Springs is not inclusive of Colorado Springs Black communities as it relates to economic rights and justice. Fifty years later, the City of Colorado Springs violates Black communities' civil and human rights. See Affordable Housing Rental Projects article below.

City Announces New Funding Application for the Development of Affordable Housing Rental Projects

© Ent Federal Credit Union, 2014 Ent is a registered trademark

of Ent Federal Credit Union. Equal Housing Lender | Federally insured by NCUA | Equal Opportunity Lender

Standard credit qualifications apply. Loans subject to final credit approval. Financing available on homes throughout Colorado.

When we realized we needed

a bigger home, we started by

getting pre-approved.

Our local lender helped us

understand our options, so we

could shop with confidence.

Our new home is just what we

wanted. And, the people we

know and trust at Ent helped

us every step of the way.

Pre-Approve the Perfect

Home

Apply online or contact one of our

experiencedmortgage loan officers today!

Mortgage Loans

(719) 574-1100 or 800-525-9623 Ent.com/Mortgage

April 29, 2014 he NBA banned Donald Sterling, owner of the Los Angeles Clippers.

Image from The NorthStar News

By Frederick H. Lowe

(NorthStar News) - On April 29 the National Basketball Association announced that it had banned Donald Sterling, owner of the Los Angeles Clippers, for life from the league because of racist comments he made to

V. Stiviano, his African American and Mexican girlfriend.

NBA Commissioner Adam Silver also announced that he will try to force Sterling to sell his team. In addition, Silver fined Sterling $2.5 million, the maximum amount the league can fine a team owner.

Silver took the action after confirming that it was Sterling’s voice on a tape, telling Stiviano that he did not want her hanging around blacks in public or to bring blacks to Clippers games. The website TMZ first broadcast the tape earlier in April. Deadspin, a sports website released a longer version of Sterling’s comments.

Members of the Clippers protested Sterling’s comments before a playoff game with the Golden State Warriors. Several of the Clippers corporate

sponsors withdrew their support.Sterling is immediately barred from

attending any NBA games and practices. And he cannot participate in business or player personnel decisions involving the team.

“This league is far bigger than any one owner, any one coach and any one player,” Silver said.

Frederick H. Lowe The NorthStar News & Analysis www.thenorthstarnews.com

NBA Bans Los Angeles Clippers Owner Commissioner Adam Silver will try to force Donald Sterling to sell the team


VETERAN

James TuckerPublisherPhone: [email protected]

Undray TuckerAssociate Publisher

Howard Smith (Independent Contractor)

Layout and Graphic Artist

Reginald WatsonWebmaster

Columnists:Kim FarmerBenjamin F. Chavis, Jr.

The Black Press CreedThe Black Press believes that America can best lead the world away from racial and national antagonism when it affords to all people – regardless of race, color or creed – their human and legal rights. Hating no person and fearing no person, the Black Press strives to help every person in the firm belief that all are hurt as long as anyone is held back.

� e African American Voice is published monthly by � e African American Voice Newspaper, Inc. � e contents of this publication are copyrighted by � e African American Voice Newspaper, Inc. Reproductions or use of content in any manner is prohibited without prior written consent.

Keeping the Community Informed Since 1991!

African American VoiceP.O. Box 25003Colorado Springs, CO 80936

Contact us at 719.528.1954 or [email protected]

(Lavan & Neidenberg Newsletter) – Disabled veterans who have been rated at 100 percent permanent and total (P&T) disability by the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) will now have their Social Security disability claims expedited when they apply for Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) or Supplemental Security Income (SSI) benefits.

The new initiative will move veterans with 100 percent P&T ratings to the front of the line so the Social Security Administration (SSA) can process their disability claims faster. However, the expedited processing is not automatic and does not guarantee that a disabled veteran will be awarded SSDI/SSI benefits.

How to Apply for Expedited Processing

To qualify your claim for expedited processing, you must file the same application for benefits, either online, by phone or in person at your local SSA office. When filing, you must provide the following:• Indicate that you have a rating of 100

percent Permanent & Total disability

from the VA.• Your notification letter from the VA

that verifies your rating.If you apply using the online

application, you must enter “Veteran rated 100% P&T” in the “Remarks” section of the application. If you apply over the phone, in person or with help from a veterans disability claims representative at The Law Offices of LaVan & Neidenberg, P.A., you must tell the person working with you that you have a 100 percent P&T disability rating from the VA.

Following SSA Rules for Disability Claims

When you file your disability application with the SSA, your claim will be treated as high priority as long as you have proof of your 100 percent P&T disability rating and have identified your rating and veteran status on your application.• Even though your claim will be

expedited for processing, you still must meet the SSA’s criteria for disability, which includes:

• A medically diagnosed, disabling condition.

• The condition has lasted or will last for 12 months or result in death.

• The condition prevents you from

working or performing any type of substantial gainful activity for which you are trained or qualified.If you believe that you meet the above

criteria and have a VA disability rating of 100 percent P&T, but your claim is delayed without explanation or has been unfairly denied, we can help. The Law Offices of LaVan & Neidenberg, P.A. have dedicated teams to help with both veterans and Social Security disability

claims, and our claims representatives will work together to ensure you receive the benefits you deserve. Contact us today – 954-523-3870 or toll-free 888-234-5758 -- to schedule a free, no-obligation consultation with a claims specialist today.

Lavan & Neidenberg, P.A. www.DisabilityLawClaims.com 1-888-234-5758

Veterans with 100% Disability Rating to Receive Expedited Processing for Social Security Disability

Image from Lavan & Neidenberg, P.A.

Image from C4C

On April 20, 2014, U. S. Marine Corps veteran Oliver B. Mitchell, III , a former employee with Veterans Affairs (VA) Greater Los Angeles Medical Center, filed a “Certification and Notice of Interested Parties” with the U. S. District Court for the Central District of California. The court document identifies approximately 1,000 veterans who Mitchell alleges had their records destroyed without proper notice by the VA. Mitchell’s recent court filing reads:

“All parties have a claim against the Defendant for failure to inform that parties records, documents, appointments may have been destroyed by the defendants.”

The Certification and Notice of Interested Parties specifically lists the names of patients who had requested either magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) scans or computed tomography (CT) scans from 1999 through 2008. The patient purge list, which includes names of persons who may have been denied timely access to care without proper notification, can be found at the following link http://www.scribd.com/doc/219755367/Veterans-Affairs-Destroying-Veterans-Record

Notably, the patient purge listing of names augments Mitchell’s lawsuit filed in March 2014 (Mitchell v Shinseki, Case No. CV 13-6030-ODW). The pending lawsuit alleges that Mitchell, who once worked as a patient services assistant in the VA’s Imaging Service, Radiology Section, was asked in November 2008 to destroy medical requests for MRI scans and CT scans. In the complaint, Mitchell discloses how VA officials schemed to hide the hospital’s inefficiency by purging the medical records backlog

which identified veterans who had been waiting for care.

According to an April 24 article by the CNN investigative team “at least 40 U.S. veterans died waiting for appointments at the Phoenix Veterans Affairs Health Care system, many of whom were placed on a secret waiting list.”

“If the VA’s Office of Inspector General had taken the concerns I presented seriously; or if the Office of Special Counsel had investigated the grave concerns I had requested both in 2009 and in 2013, then perhaps the lives of U.S. veterans could have been saved,” said Mitchell, who has an open request that remains unanswered for the OSC to investigate the matter.

Mitchell is now homeless. He reports that in 2011 the VA constructively removed him as a result of his whistleblowing disclosures about agency officials destroying patient records. Notwithstanding Mitchell’s own personal

hardships, he continues to seek help from congress to ensure that veterans get timely clinic access to prevent disabilities, that veterans get prevention screening for cancer as requested and that veterans get the overall healthcare needed to develop or maintain healthy lifestyles.

On February 11, The Coalition For Change, Inc. (C4C) initiated a Freedom of Information Act request seeking any written record within the U.S. Veterans Affairs which purportedly instructed all of its imaging services across the country to mass purge patient imaging orders for studies older than six months.

VA provided the following document in reply to the C4C request http://www.scribd.com/doc/220301465/Veterans-Affairs-FOIA-REPLY-to-C4C-Authorization-to-Destroy-VetCoalition For Change (C4C) www.coalition4change.org

Veterans Affairs and the “Patient Purge List”


Colorado Baptist Southern District Association

Youth Department

Invites you to join us

“Look good feel better”

Community Outreach Campaign

A wig drive to support young cancer survivors

bring new wig donations/wig supplies to

New Resurrection Baptist Church 601 S Prospect

Saturday May 31, 2014 1-3pm

F or additional Information contact CBSD Youth Director

Sis. Pj Gage 719-217-1804

EDUCATION

TOGETHER Building a Strong Black Community

Support the Black Press by Advertising!Call 719.528.1954 or visit www.africanamericanvoice.net for more information.

(CASE) - Dr. Jeanette Patterson, principal of Horizon Community Middle School in Cherry Creek School District, has been selected as the 2014 Colorado Middle Level Principal of the Year. This program recognizes principals who have succeeded in providing outstanding leadership.

Patterson attributes her servant leadership style—placing the needs of students, staff, and parents above everything else—as leading to a positive

Jeanette Patterson Named Top Middle School Principal in Coloradochange in the culture and climate and in student achievement. For seven years now she has served as principal at Horizon Community Middle School where she has created an environment that focuses on student success and readiness. Students now feel like they belong at the school and discipline referral numbers have decreased significantly.

“Dr. Patterson always encouraged us as students,” states former student Taylor Pinson. “She presented certificates of honor and expected good results from us. She was very open and caring when we had questions or concerns and made sure there was a solution found quickly that worked for everyone. I admire her so much.”

Beyond empowering students, Patterson also works to empower her teachers and staff. Her goal is to build leadership capacity among staff so teachers feel empowered to make crucial choices that need to be made in order to prepare students for their future. “Under Dr. Patterson’s leadership, student success and growth on Colorado standardized testing have surpassed

the state averages and placed Horizon Middle School in the top category of Accreditation. She is most deserving of the CASE Colorado Middle School Principal of the Year Award,” Cherry Creek School District Superintendent Dr. Harry Bull said.

Patterson’s peers find her to be a spirited leader, innovator, problem-solver and dynamic administrator. Debra Carter adds, “Dr. Patterson cares deeply about the students at Horizon Middle School by creating an atmosphere that encourages collaborative interactions with parents, staff and students in order to promote and meet high academic standards…where every child has the opportunity to learn and realize their vision, dream, future excellence and academic success.”

When asked what this award means to her, Patterson answered, “To lead is to serve and to influence is to empower, the essence of school leadership is being a servant.” Her leadership has influenced and empowered others and being named 2014 Colorado Middle Level Principal of the Year reinforces this fact. Patterson was selected by the Colorado Association of Secondary School Principals (CASSP Board of Directors), an affiliate of the National Association of Secondary School Principals and a chapter of Colorado Association of

School Executives (CASE).The Principal of the Year program is

sponsored by MetLife and the National Association of Secondary School Principals. This award recognizes leaders who have succeeded in providing high-quality opportunities for students. Selection criteria include personal excellence, collaborative leadership, curriculum, instruction, assessment and personalization of learning opportunities for students.

CASE and CASSP will formally present Patterson with her award at an upcoming school event. She and other CASE award winners also will be recognized at an awards ceremony later this month, as well as at the 45th Annual CASE Education Leadership Convention this summer in Breckenridge. As Colorado Middle Level Principal of the Year, Patterson is eligible for National Principal of the Year recognition, which will be announced later this year. She will be honored along with other state winners in Washington, D.C. in early fall.Susan Meek Director of Communications and Membership Colorado Association of School Executives www.co-case.org

Dr. Jeanette Patterson

All your protection under one roof.®

One call is all it takes to get the insurance you need. Auto, home, business, health, life and more, I’m ready to help.**Some products not available in every state.

Cheryl J Branch Agency

315 S Santa Fe Ave

Fountain, CO 80817-1794(719) 382-4900 Bus

Monday - Friday 9:00AM - 5:[email protected]

American Family Mutual Insurance Company and its SubsidiariesAmerican Family Insurance CompanyHome Office — Madison, WI 53783

amfam.com

© 2008 002134 — Rev. 11/08


CALENDAR

Iota Eta Chapter - Chi Eta Phi Sorority, IncorporatedNurses of Distinction and Nursing Scholarship

Awards LuncheonSaturday, May 17, 2014

11:30 am - 1:30 pmRadisson Hotel

1645 N. Newport Road Colorado Springs CO 80916

For more information email: [email protected]

Ca r

i b

b e a n A me r i c an

Heritage Month

Colorado

Juneteenth CaribbeanHeritage Fair 2014

Vendors Wanted!Please call 719.528.1954 for more information.

www.africanamericanvoice.netwww.nationaljuneteenth.com

June 21-22

For more information contact:Ivette Shipp-Dennis (President) (303) 343-7156

African American Quilters & Collectors Guild

African Night At the African Bar Grill

Entertainment by AFAN Band

June 4-5 - Location: 18601 Green Valley Ranch Blvd. #100 Denver, CO, 80249 (48th & Tower)

June 13-14 - Location: 1010 S. Peoria St. Aurora, CO, 80012

For more information call: (720) 949-0784

www.africanamericanvoice.netMay 2014

May 2014Special SupplementAfrican Proverb: "In times of war a brave warrior is remembered."

Black Health

Note to Publisher:

Hi Mr. Tucker what a wonderful newspaper this month, talking about the thing most near and dear to my heart! I appreciate you running my articles and my history, and your dedication to our community. I only hope that one of my article reaches someone that really needs to hear it, and listens the motivation to get up and move or shop smarter. You are a valuable asset to our community and we are lucky to have you.'Eat Clean and Get Lean in 2014!'Kim Farmer Owner Mile High Fitness, LLC

May is High Blood Pressure Education Month. Have you talked about a goal for your blood

pressure with your health care provider? If not, do it at your next visit.

Images from Centers for Disease Control and Prevention

When it Comes to Blood Pressure, Make Control Your Goal

By Centers for Disease Control and Prevention

One of three American adults has high blood pressure, also called hypertension. That’s 67 million people who have to work to keep their blood pressure in check each day. Unfortunately, more than half of people with high blood pressure do not have their condition under control.

May is High Blood Pressure Education Month, and it’s a good time to find out how to “make control your goal.”

Keep it Down in There!Having the highest score is good

in many things, but not with blood pressure—the higher your numbers, the more serious the condition.

You may not have any symptoms of high blood pressure, but it can damage your health in many ways. For instance, it can harden the arteries, decreasing the flow of blood and oxygen to the heart and brain. This reduced flow can cause:• A heart attack, which occurs when the

blood supply to your heart is blocked and heart muscle cells die from a lack of oxygen.

• A stroke, which can occur when arteries that supply blood and oxygen to the brain become blocked or burst.

• Chest pain, also called angina.• Heart failure, which occurs when the

heart can’t pump enough blood and oxygen to other organs.

Make Control your GoalOf the 67 million American adults who

have high blood pressure, 16 million know that they have the condition and are getting treatment, but their blood pressure still remains higher than it should be. For these individuals, awareness

and treatment are not enough—that’s why CDC is asking patients, families, and health care professionals to “make control the goal.”

If you have high blood pressure, there are steps you can take to get it under control, including:• Ask your doctor what your blood

pressure should be. Set a goal to lower your pressure with your doctor and then discuss how you can reach your goal. Work with your doctor to make sure you meet that goal.

• Take your blood pressure medication as directed. If you are having trouble, ask your doctor what you can do to make it easier. For example, you

may want to discuss your medication schedule with your doctor if you are taking multiple drugs at different times of the day. Or you may want to discuss side effects you are feeling, or the cost of your medicine.

• Quit smoking—and if you don’t smoke, don’t start. You can find tips and resources at CDC’s Smoking and Tobacco Web site (www.cdc.gov/tobacco/) or Be Tobacco Free Web site (betobaccofree.hhs.gov).

•Reduce sodium. Most Americans consume too much sodium, and it raises their risk for high blood pressure.There are other healthy habits, in addition

to taking your medication that can help keep your blood pressure under control:•Achieve and maintain a healthy

body weight.

• Participate in 30 minutes of moderate physical activity on most days of the week.

• Eat a healthy diet that is high in fruits and vegetables and low in sodium, saturated fats, trans fat, and cholesterol.

• Manage stress.• Limit the amount of alcohol you drink

(no more than one drink each day for women and two for men).If you have a family member who

has high blood pressure, you can help by taking many of the steps listed above with them. Go for walks together or cook meals with lower sodium. Make it a family affair!

Helping Patients make Control their Goal

If you are a doctor, nurse, pharmacist, or other health care provider you can help your patients bring their blood pressure under control. Keep the conversation

going with your patients about properly taking medications. Not taking blood pressure medications as directed may be one reason why some patients don’t have their blood pressure under control. Some common barriers include:• Cost of the medication.• Side effects.• Insufficient doctor-patient communication.• Lack of patient involvement in the

treatment plan.•Schedule for taking drugs is

too complicated.To help address these barriers, talk to

your patients every time they come in about their blood pressure goals and the medications they are taking. Medications that are cheaper or more convenient to take may help some patients achieve control and they may benefit from

knowing about drug discount programs that could help offset cost or taking a generic drug. For patients on more than one medication, a simplified schedule to once-a-day dosing may be the key.

It’s important to keep the lines of communication open so that patients feel comfortable voicing their concerns. If lifestyle behaviors, such as tobacco use or unhealthy weight, also play a role, talk to the patient about healthy habits that can make a difference. Hearing it from you may have more effect than you think.

Improvements in health information technology, such as electronic health records with clinical decision support and physician reminders can also help improve treatment and control. If you don’t have an electronic health record system, keep lists to track your patients with high blood pressure and reach out to them to check on their progress. Working as a health care team, with the support of doctors, nurses, and pharmacists together can help improve preventive care delivery and blood pressure control for patients.

When it comes to high blood pressure control, everyone has a role. Together, we can all make control our goal.

Centers for Disease Control and Prevention www.cdc.gov

"One of three American adults has high blood pressure, also called hypertension. That’s 67 million people who have to

work to keep their blood pressure in check each day."

www.africanamericanvoice.netS2 May 2014

Recipe of the Month: Avocado TacosHi everyone! This month’s recipe is quick and easy. I obtained this recipe from the allrecipes.com website. You can add your own variations, like tomatoes, black beans.Ingredients• 3 avocados - peeled, pitted , and mashed• 1/4 cup onions, diced• 1/4 teaspoon garlic salt• 12 (6 inch) corn tortillasPreparation• Preheat oven to 325 degrees F (165 degrees C).• In a medium bowl, mix avocados, onions, and garlic salt.• Arrange corn tortillas in a single layer on a large

baking sheet, and place in the preheated oven 2 to 5 minutes, until heated through.

• Spread tortillas with the avocado mixture. Garnish with cilantro and sprinkle with jalapeno pepper sauce.

All Recipes www.allrecipes.com

Kim Farmer Mile High Fitness www.milehighfightness.com

BLACK HEALTH

Kim Farmer

Image from Healthy Black Woman

By Krystle Crossman

Diabetes affects almost 26 million Americans. It is a disease that anyone can get. They can be any age, any race, and any gender. Research is bringing us closer and closer to a cure for diabetes with new advances in medicine. There is potential for a cure both with Type 1 and Type 2 diabetes. They are also looking at new methods of prevention.

Testing is underway at the Joslin Diabetes Center at Harvard Medical School. Previous research used the islet cells in the pancreas and transplanted them so that the body would make the right amount of insulin to deal with the sugar that people were taking in. However the immune system was not a fan of these islet cells and would end up destroying them. Research is being done now to find a way to stop the

immune system from attacking the islet cells. They are trying to understand why the attacks happen so that they can stop the problem before it starts.

There is also ongoing research that is trying to find a way to reproduce the islet cells that you already have in your body so that the immune system will not attack them. These regenerated cells would come from stem cells. Some patients with Type 1 diabetes have been found to still have a small number of functional islets cells that produce a small amount of insulin.

Type 2 diabetes has research being done on it as well. They are trying to find the exact cause of Type 2 and have narrowed it down to the possibility that it is caused by inflammation. The researchers are testing a theory that anti-inflammatory drugs may help people who suffer from Type 2 diabetes. It is

tough for the researchers to really pin anything down at this point because diabetes affects so many different systems in the body. They are working on a drug that will prevent vision loss from diabetes and also possibly prevent

your kidneys from failing.

Krystle Crossman Healthy Black Woman www.healthyblackwoman.com

Diabetes Researchers Working Towards Cure and Even Prevention

Exercising and staying active is an important part of living a healthy lifestyle for individuals of all ages. However, many elderly people stop exercising at a certain point, particularly if they have had health problems in the past or have recurring medical issues.

It might seem difficult for many elderly individuals to exercise, but there are a variety of activities that can be tailored to the needs of almost any older adult. Use these exercise tips to stay healthy through your golden years.

Start Walking MoreWalking is one of the best exercises

for aging adults, particularly those who haven’t done any sort of strenuous exercise in some time. Walking is ideal is because it can be done at any pace almost anywhere in the world – even at home or at the gym on a treadmill if the weather is bad.

When you first start walking, just

try going for 15 or 20 minutes at a comfortable pace. Don’t push yourself – it’s not a race. As you get used to walking, try moving a little faster and increasing the duration of your walk to 30 minutes or more.

Ideally, you should be walking about 30 to 45 minutes per day if it is your primary form of exercise.

Don’t Forget Strength TrainingMany elderly adults, even ones who

used to love going to the gym, stop doing any sort of strength training when they get older, thinking that they might get injured. The truth is that injuries are more likely to occur if you allow muscle to deteriorate at a faster rate – something that happens naturally as you age.

You don’t have to do bench presses with huge weights or Olympic dead lifts to get the benefits of strength training. Even doing 10 or 15 reps with small free weights and using resistance bands or machines for your legs can be enough to make you stronger, more balanced and to boost your metabolism.

Try YogaYoga is an activity that many older

adults may be unfamiliar with. However, it is becoming more and more popular with elderly individuals just like it is around the world for people of all ages.

Yoga can be particularly beneficial for older adults because it combines relaxation, stretching exercises and light strength training exercises since the body’s weight is often supported by only certain areas. Another reason

yoga is so beneficial for older adults is because it can be done in different levels, from beginner to advanced.

When you first start doing yoga you’ll likely want to take a beginner class or learn basic poses on your own. These classes tend to be less strenuous. However, as you advance and find out how beneficial yoga is, you may want to move up to more strenuous and advanced classes that challenge your flexibility, balance and strength even more.

Exercising is an important part of staying healthy. However, if you have medical problems you’ll want to talk to your doctor about your plans. They

may be able to recommend alternative activities or give you tips on how best to perform your desired exercise.

If you don’t have health problems, start slow and work your way up to more intense exercises. Listen to your body and know you’re making yourself healthier each time you exercise.

Contributors: Kim Farmer and Tara Heath of Mile High Fitness. Mile High Fitness offers in-home personal training and corporate fitness solutions. Visit www.milehighfitness.com or email [email protected]

Elderly Exercise Tips to Stay Healthy

www.africanamericanvoice.net S3 May 2014

BLACK RESOURCESBlack Autonomy Network Community Organization (BANCO) (269) 925-0001 www.bhbanco.org

Your Black World – Your Source for All Black News www.yourblackworld.net

National Black Chamber of Commerce (202) 466-6888 www.nationalbcc.org

National Juneteenth Observance Foundation www.nationaljuneteenth.com

African American Voice Newspaper, Inc. (719) 528-1954 www.africanamericanvoice.net

Blackonomics www.blackonomics.com

Black Veterans of America (612) 401-7673 www.blackvetsofamerica.org

The Empowerment Experiment www.eefortomorrow.com

LeFlore Communications, LLC (414) 438-1534 www.leflorecommunications.comToothbrush Hygiene Helper, LLC www.toothbrushhygienehelper.com

The Association for the Study of African American Life and History (202) 238-5910 www.asalh.net

Coalition For Change, Inc. (C4C) (866) 737-9783 www.coalition4change.org

Radio Show WTWG AM 1050 (622) 328-1050 www.wtwgam1050.com

The NorthStar News & Analysis www.thenorthstarnews.com

Department of Veterans Affairs - Office of Inspector General 1 (800) 488-8244 www.va.gov/oig/hotline

WVON 1690AM "Voice of a Nation!" (773) 247-6200 www.wvon.com

Black Agenda Report www.blackagendareport.com

All Voices www.allvoices.com

The Black Star Project (773) 285-9600 www.blackstarproject.org

National Civil Rights Museum (901) 521-9699 www.civilrightsmuseum.org

African American Quilter's & Collectors Guild (303) 343-7156 www.aaquiltersguild.org

Blair-Caldwell African American Research Library (720) 865-2401 aarl.denverlibrary.org

Roots to Glory Tours (410) 429-0804 www.rootstoglory.com

African Ancestry (202) 723-0900 www.africanancestry.com

Equal Justice Initiative (334) 269-1803 www.eji.org

Black Lawyers for Justice (202) 434-4528 www.blfjustice.org

Colorado Committee on Africa and the Caribbean (303) 329-5881 www.tinyurl.com/coloradocommittee

NAACP Legal Defense Fund (Not affiliated with NAACP) (212) 965-2200 www.naacpldf.org

The Last American Plantation (404) 913-7005 www.thelastamericanplantation.com

Liberation News (202) 234-2828 www.pslweb.org/liberationnews

National Black Justice Coalition (202) 319-1552 www.nbjc.org

Northeast Denver Islamic Center / Masjid Taqwa (720) 941-3819 www.northeastdenverislamiccenter.com

Mile High Momentum Institute (720) 204-2210 www.milehighmomentum.com - www.mmimindset.com

Black Star Project (773) 285-9600 www.blackstarproject.org

Chenelle A. Jones, Ph.D. Assistant Professor of Criminology and Criminal Justice Ohio Dominican University [email protected]

Pinkney to Pinkney Show (269) 925-0001 www.blogtalkradio.com/rev-pinkney

Colorado Black Arts Movement (720) 216-2383 www.coblackarts.org

Downtown Candle Co. (901) 207-2579 www.downtowncandleco.com

Rocky Mountain Protective Service (719) 553-9204 www.rmpsllc.com

www.africanamericanvoice.netS4 May 2014

JUNETEENTH CARIBBEAN HERITAGE FAIR

Hillside Community CenterFountain Park

925 South Institute StreetColorado Springs, CO 80903


For more Information call 719.528.1954 or visit: www.africanamericanvoice.net || www.nationaljuneteenth.com

Ca r

i b


Heritage Month

Colorado

Experience Colorado Black Culture

Mama’s Heavenly SalsaAFAN Band

Featured Vendors and Supporters:

Bessie Coleman Fly Girls

Buffalo SoldiersMotorcycle Club

ArtistDáreece Walker

June 20-22

Comm

unities

Families

ThemeDefi ning our Heritage:

www.rmpsllc.com


YOUTH

Re:Fuel 5/1/20141ATL111279B

5 x 7.5” ESMOOKLER WMTTR001

jb Drivers

We are Hiring Drivers for our Transportation Office! Loveland, CO

MAKING BETTER POSSIBLE

In the first year driving for Walmart, the average full time Walmart Driver will earn $76,000 per year working a 5.5 day work week.

Walmart drivers earn:

Protect and provide for yourself and your family with comprehensive medical/dental plans and a company-matched 401(k) retirement plan.

Learn about our Professional Truck Driver opportunities, view the minimum job qualifications and apply online at

www.drive4walmart.com.

Wal-Mart Stores, Inc. is an Equal Opportunity Employer- By Choice.

• Mileage Pay

• Activity Pay

• Hourly Pay

• Regular schedule and reset hours at home, not on the road

• Training Pay

• Weekend Premium Pay

• Quarterly Safety Bonus

• Average length of haul is 300 miles

Walmart Careers

MAKING BETTER POSSIBLE

Do you know what some of the youth are doing here in Colorado? They are learning how to fly. Yes, fly!

A wonderful organization called Fly Girls Bessie Coleman Chapter is teaching young adults how to fly and achieve their dreams in aviation. Founder Jacqueline Withers, along with an esteemed list of volunteers and sponsors, assist the teenagers in achieving their dreams.

The vision started for Ms. Jacqueline Withers (a Chicago native and Director of Take Flight Leadership) while painting murals of the Tuskegee Airmen. She wanted to expound on that vision to include children of all races in helping them live out their dreams and expectations.

Through this journey, the Fly Girls have already visited Chicago and Las Vegas as well as won scholarships that have taken them to Alabama, Wisconsin, and Dallas, just to name a few of the places they have been. The Fly Girls are also authors, self-publishing their first book, which can be found on blurb.com.

For more information contact:Jacqueline Withers (303) 282-5742 [email protected]

Take Flight Leadership Aviation and Bessie Coleman Fly Girls

Veteran Owned Business Since 1991 To place an ad or for more informati on, call: 719.528.1954

Congratulations Student Aviators

Salutes the Take Flight Leadership Aviation Scholarship Recipients!

Left to Right: Makeda Hobson – EAA Air Academy, Elijah Rashad – Flight Instructor Private License, Kevin Manzanares-Cervantes – EAA Air Academy, Dalya Blackburn – Helicopter Training in Denver, CO., Britney Wilson – EAA Air Academy.


INDEPENDENT BLACK FARMERS

By Yolanda Spivey

A memorial was held on March 30, 2014 to honor and pay libations to the 150 Black women who were lynched in America during the 19th and 20th centuries.

The event, “In Remembrance of Our Sisters: 150 Black Women Who Were Lynched in the U.S. Between 1870-1957,” took place on Sunday, March 30, 2014 at 3:00pm in Philadelphia, PA. The event organizers requested that everyone in attendance wear white, and encouraged attendees to bring their children to “witness the healing and learn the forgotten history.”

Your Black World spoke with event organizer Iya Marilyn Kai Jewett, who said that the article written on Your Black World’s platform, “Let’s Not Forget, Black Women Were Lynched Too” was the catalyst for putting the event together.

She stated, “After reading the accounts of the lynchings, the Egun (ancestors) spoke to me and directed me to do something so they will be remembered. I broke down and cried like a baby because I could feel the horror and pain that these women endured.”

Just to recap the article, there were over 150 documented lynching’s of Black women in the United States between 1850-1957. These women, many of them young girls, were raped

and tortured before they were hung. Some of them were burned alive and had their babies cut from their stomachs as they were murdered. The babies, who were also alive, were then stomped to death by the white men who murdered their mothers.

Dr. Boyce Watkins wrote an article recently highlighting the case of Mary Turner. It was noted seven years on the very same day, after the death of Mary Turner and her child, Malcolm Little who the world knows as Malcolm X was born.

Iya Marilyn Kai Jewett states that she hopes this event served as a history lesson to today’s youths—that they must never forget that these atrocities happened in America’s history.

“Even if you didn't attend the event, go to the website and remember those women—not just those women, but remember your ancestors. When you’re in trouble, or need to vent, call on your ancestors,” stated Jewett. She believes that the reason why there are so many issues in the Black community today is because Black people are not connected to their ancestors.

Yolanda Spivey Naturally Moi naturallymoi.com

Memorial to Honor the 150 Black Women who were Lynched

Image from Naturally Moi

• Mistreatment of Black farmers by not providing proper aid.

• Economic damage by government agencies.

• Denial of agricultural assistance.• Loss of valuable farm land.• Breaching of many verbal and written

contracts.• Neglect of government officials to act

to stop criminal acts.• Financial neglect by government and

lending institutions.• Unlawful and unethical behavior of

government and institutional officials.• Creating intentional psychological

damage to Black farmers and families.The Black farmers declared April 4,

“Civil Rights Awareness Day” because it is the day Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. was assassinated and Black farmers and other Blacks in the United States of America are still denied civil rights protection today. Forty-six years after Dr. King’s death, the USDA continues

to destroy Black lives.During the rally, Black farmers

listened to Dr. King’s speeches. Isaac Decatur, a representative from Coalition For Change said, “This is 2014 and 50 years after the Civil Rights Act of 1964 was passed, Obama’s administration ignores Black issues and refuses to enforce civil rights laws. The Obama administration currently supports civil rights violators and allows unfair treatment of Black farmers.

Black Farmers Honor Dr. King at Protest Rally and Demand Justice

Continued from page 1

Happy Mother's Day! Love and Honor your Mother!

Ferrell Oden (R) speaking with a Homeland Security officer. The Homeland Security officer challenged Mr. Oden for protesting and was the third person to question the group about a permit.

Isaac Decatur (L), James Tucker (C) and Sheryl Caffey (R) support the Independent Black farmers.

The last Monday of May has been designated by law as Memorial Day, a day to pay tribute to the brave men and women who have given their lives to protect and serve our country.

This holiday is thought to have begun shortly following the end of the Civil War. Originally known as Decoration Day, Major General John A. Logan declared May 30th should be a day to decorate the graves of soldiers in flowers.

In the mid-1800s several local

Publisher’s note: During the rally, Montgomery police, Homeland Security and the building supervisor asked the Black farmers for their permit to hold the rally. The Homeland Security officer was heavily armed with five or more magazines of munitions. He also asked for a contact person’s name. I asked him why he came to the rally. I also asked him for the transcript and the complaint his office received. NBC was the only television station that covered the rally.

African American Voice africanamericanvoice.net

celebrations claimed to be the first “Memorial Day” events and considered themselves to be the birthplace of the holiday. For the next hundred years the holiday would evolve and expand to eventually become the celebration we hold today.

It wasn’t until 1966 that President Lyndon B. Johnson declared the official birthplace of Memorial Day to be Waterloo, N.Y. It was there in 1866 that a ceremony on May 5 was held to honor

local veterans who fought in the Civil War. The holiday was marked with flying flags at half-mast and the closure of businesses.

In 1971, an act of Congress established Memorial Day as a national holiday. It was expanded to honor all servicemembers who died in American wars. The official date was also established to be the last Monday in May, following the uniform federal holiday initiative.

Most recently, in 2000 the National Moment of Remembrance Act was

passed to create a unified event of solidarity of the American people. At approximately 3:00 p.m. local time on Memorial Day, Americans are asked to observe a national moment of silence to honor those who have died in service to their nation.

Lavan & Neidenberg, P.A. www.DisabilityLawClaims.com 1-888-234-5758

Memorial Day - May 26

Photos , Ralph Saunders and Morsie Porter


BLACK EVENTS

Hillside Community CenterFountain Park925 South Institute StreetColorado Springs, CO 80903


www.africanamericanvoice.netwww.nationaljuneteenth.com

Ca r

i b


Heritage Month

Colorado

Ten Reasons to Attend

June 20-22

23rd Annual Celebration

I. Help Keep Black culture alive.

II. Enjoy some of the best entertainment in the world.

III. Learn about Colorado history at the Black Museum.

IV. Taste Cultural Food.

V. Activities: Play games with the youth.

VI. Small businesses:Shop at the African Village.

VII. Mid Term Election 2014: Listen to candidates views on Black issues.

VIII. Experience and purchase Black art.

IX. Meet Colorado Black church leaders.

X. Meet a Black community leader:Dr. James Tucker.

- Owner of African American Voice Newspaper, Inc

- Juneteenth National Board Member and Colorado State Director

- Community organizer and sponsor of Juneteenth Caribbean Heritage Fair

- Decorated War Veteran

- Tucker/Gray Family

Civil and Human Rights Dinner Guest Speaker:Ada Anagho Brown


CIVIL AND HUMAN RIGHTS VIOLATORS

Making History 2014: Denying Blacks Justice and Equality

Fifty years after the Civil Rights Act of 1964:The University of Denver continues to practice Jim Crow economics.

Did you know? The University of Denver discriminates against the Black Press.

are still needed. While we have made considerable progress in the last 50 years, we still have not overcome racism and its negative impact on Black America. And that fact is sometimes conveniently overlooked by Black journalists who work for such White-owned outlets such as the Washington Post and The Root.

For me and my codefendants in the civil rights case known worldwide as the Wilmington Ten, this is a personal matter when someone takes issue with the present-day “power” of the Black Press. In 1972, the Wilmington Ten were unjustly sentenced to a combined total of 282 years in prison in the state of North Carolina. We were falsely accused and wrongly convicted of arson

and conspiracy to assault charges doing a 1971 racial riot over public school desegregation in Wilmington. A little more than a year ago, the National Newspaper Publishers Association (NNPA), the Black Press USA, launched an effective national campaign to get an official “Pardon of Innocence” for the Wilmington Ten.

For more than 40 years, many in the established media in the U.S. had published articles about the alleged “guilt” of the Wilmington Ten. In fact, the New York Times published a story in the late 1970s under the headline: “The Case Against the Wilmington Ten.” By the end of 2012, however, North Carolina Gov. Beverly Perdue agreed with the NNPA-led effort as she issued an unprecedented Pardon of Innocence to each member of the Wilmington Ten. Gov. Perdue courageously stated,

“This was a case of naked racism.” We are, therefore, grateful to Gov. Perdue for her historic act and for her candor. We are also very grateful to all of the Black newspaper publishers and writers throughout the United States who continue to uphold the proud banner of the Black Press.

Let us never underestimate the enduring value and respect of all our Black-owned businesses and institutions. Of course, we are always open to constructive criticism and recommendations concerning how to strengthen the economic status of the businesses that are vital to our forward progress. However, it would be a tragic error to assume that because we now have a Black American as president of the United States, there is no longer a need to sustain the very institutions, organizations and businesses that have

contributed so much to our progress.I thank God for the powerful Black

Press in America. We all should be more supportive of the Black Press, Black Church, HBCUs, and our ongoing struggle for freedom, justice and equality not only for Black Americans, but also for all people across the nation and world.

Benjamin F. Chavis, Jr. is president of Education Online Services Corporation and the Hip-Hop Summit Action Network and can be reached for lectures and for other consultations at: http://drbenjaminfchavisjr.wix.com/drbfc.

Benjamin F. Chavis, Jr. NNPA Columnist nnpa.orgBlack Press USA blackpressusa.com

The Power of the Black Press

Continued from page 1

LuAnn LongColorado Springs School District 11

President

Tom BoasbergDenver Public Schools

Superintendent

Jill TiefenhalerColorado College

President

Happy HaynesDenver Public Schools

President, Board of Education

Rico MunnAurora Public Schools

Superintendent

Mark HatchellAcademy District 20

Superintendent

Landri TaylorDenver Public Schools

Board Member - District 4

Jim MasonColorado Springs School District 11

Secretary

Charlita SheltonUniversity of the Rockies

President & CEO

Lt. Gen. Michelle D. JohnsonU.S. Air Force Academy

Superintendent

Civil Rights Act of 1964An act to enforce the constitutional right to vote, to confer jurisdiction upon the district courts of the United States of America to provide injunctive relief against discrimination in public accommodations, to authorize the Attorney General to institute suits to protect constitutional rights in public facilities and public education, to extend the Commission on Civil Rights, to prevent discrimination in federally assisted programs, to establish a Commission on

Equal Employment Opportunity, and for other purposes.

Title VI of the 1964 Civil Rights ActNo person in the United States shall, on the grounds of race, color, or

national origin, be excluded from participation in, be denied the benefits of, or be subjected to discrimination under any program or activity receiving

federal financial assistance.

Title VII of the 1964 Civil Rights ActProhibits employment discrimination based on race, color, religion, sex, or

national origin.

Nicholas GledichColorado Springs School District 11

Superintendent


SHADES OF BROWN


Support the businesses that support our communit y!

Colorado Cross-Disability Coalition

655 BroadwaySuite 775Denver, CO [email protected] us on Facebook:www.facebook.com/CCDC.CO

Direct Line: (720)-961-4261

Direct Private Fax: (303)-567-6582

Organizational Line: (303)-839-1775

Organizational Fax: (303)-839-1782

Julie Reiskin, Executive Director

dr. james tucker publisher black farmers honor dr. …africanamericanvoice.net/archives/2014/aavoice...

Documents