Nov. 22, 2008
Transcription
Nov. 22, 2008
FREE Friday, November 21, 2008 PHILADELPHIA, CHESTER, NEW JERSEY, WILMINGTON Fallen Leaves Veteran Journalist 48 Years of Community Service SCOOP USA family and our Advertisers wish all a Very Happy, Blessed Thanksgiving Kendal Wilson - page 3 Hank Baskett of the Philadelphia Eagles joined Keystone Mercy Health Plan's Healthy Hoops program to talk about his experiences managing his asthma so that he could play sports. The Healthy Hoops program is an innovative asth- ma management program that uses basketball as a vehicle to educate children and their families about the disease. See “Philadelphia Eagles’ Hank Baskett…” page 11 Visit SCOOP USA on the World Wide Web: SCOOPUSANEWSPAPER.COM 2 - SCOOP U.S.A. - Friday, November 21, 2008 African American Youth, the Black Community, Hyphy and The Development of Hip Hop Nation Language Copyright James G. Spady 2008 Dedicated to Black Linguists, Drs. Beryl Bailey, Lorenzo Dow Turner Geneva Smitherman, John Baugh, and John Rickford Hip Hop Nation Language is a marvelous example of linguistic diversity in African America. Members of the Hip Hop Nation Language (HHNL) Speech Community recognize that linguistic inequality, like other forms of social inequality is a problem in the 21st century. Nessa Wolfson and Joan Manes rightly note in the forward, Languages of Inequality, that “one’s native language is so much a part of one’s identity that to denigrate it is to effectively deny one’s human ability to communicate.” Why is it necessary to more fully understand Hip Hop Nation Language? What can we learn about the Hip Hop Nation by carefully studying its language? What is the relationship of identity to language? Professor Dell Hymes explains, “The functional equality of all languages has been a tenet of the faith from the founders of structural linguistics to most practitioners of linguistics today. It is unacceptable in most respectable linguistic circles to suggest that one language is less capable in some respect then another, or that some users of a language are so much of the world and every educational system, fade in air, into think air, when linguists speak in their professional capacity as linguists.” Dr. H. Samy Alim of the University of California at Los Angeles makes the following astute observations in his groundbreaking work, “Street Conscious Copula Variation In The Hip Hop Nation,” Alim states, “In l994, when the Hip Hop artist Guru rapped about Black street speech—what he called ‘the code of the streets’---he did so with outright defiance to a standard language ideology that stifles those without access to formal education. His rhymes, as it has been said of all rap lyrics constituted more than just a resistance discourse; they created a context where issues of identity and in-group solidarity took center stage (Spady and Eure, l991). Guru fiercely rapped that he was never afraid to let loose his speech because his brotha knew that he spit [‘rapped’] the code of the streets. In this proclamation—as with the lyrics of many socially conscious Hip Hop artists (Smitherman 2000a) --Guru attempts to resist the dominant culture with words---but he ain’t gon do it alone. He and his brothas are rappin in a code of communication that reflect both the ideational and the material aspects of what has come to be known as Hip Hop Culture. Kickin, (speakin in rhyme), the code of the street is essential to the Hip Hop Nation (HHN). Over the past decade, one of the most pro- o I want the convenience of receiving SCOOP U.S.A. every week at my home or business o 26 weeks - Only o 52 weeks - Only $20.00 $35.00 Call (215) 232-5974 Fax (215) 236-2945 Mail Scoop U.S.A. P.O. Box 14013 Philadelphia, PA 19122 In Person 942 N. Watts St. Philadelphia, PA 19123 New Renew Total $------- Form Of Payment: q CHECK q MONEY ORDER or Credit Card Card # ______________________________________________ Expiration Date _______ lific and brilliant scholars to emerge in the areas of sociolinguistics and hip hop culture, Professor H. Samy Alim is a member of the faculty of UCLA’s Department of Anthropology and author of Roc The Mic Right: The Language of Hip Hop Culture, 2006, You Know My Steez: An Ethnographic and Sociolinguistic Study of Styleshifting in a Black American Speech Community, 2004, and Co-author of Street Conscious rap as well as Tha Global Cipha: Hip Hop Culture and Consciousness. His research interests include language and race, global Hip Hop Cultures, and the street language, culture and music of the Muslim World (from Chicago to Cairo) What Separates You From Your Children’s Generation? Alim notes, “I find every feature of AAL represented in Hip Hop lyrics (see Rickford 1999 for a ‘checklist’ of AA. Given the appearance of AAL features in Hip Hop lyrics, with what frequency do they occur? Are these rare, isolated incidents, or do they represent a specific language pattern? Do the patterns of these features in Hip Hop lyrics differ from the patterns found in naturally occurring speech? And if so what does that mean?” Alim’s works as a linguist, hiphopographer, ethnographer, and educator contributes immeasurably to the scholarly literature on Hip Hop Nation Language and linguistic equanimity generally. Conversations about the Hip Hop Generation are frequently heard at family gatherings, in faculty clubs and in barbershops. What factors gave rise to this particular generation? Peter Labrie provides the following insight for parents, grandparents and great grandparents who try desperately to understand this current generation. LaBrie explains, “The Black world has changed so dramatically since before World War II that it would be impossible for a youth coming up today to have the same view of the world and20himself which his father had. In the turbulent cities of America, the rhythm of life is quicker and more varied, and complex for the masses. Life becomes a game in which one has to learn at an early age to be flexible, to scheme and hustle if he is to survive…It is clear that the Black Nation today is in a state of profound flux. The collective conscience of the people is being shaken to the very core of its being, thereby causing black music and black culture to take off into so many different directions. The pathos, violence, and disorder involved in this period of severe cultural and social disruption are often shocking to older generation Negroes.” Hip Hop culture reflects the turbulence of our cities, the fast-paced rhythm of our lives as much as it does the complexity of living in the 21st century. Hip Hop Nation Language speaks to us from that unique vantage point. Black Humor in Ballads by Sterling Brown and Pastor Troy We Been Hyphy: Hip Hop Cultural Production in the Yay Area The Relationship of Hip Hop Lyrics to African American Language Teachers and parents can play an effective role in the growth and development of Hip Hop Nation Language. What English teacher or Music/ African American studies scholar would not be interested in examining gender duels, rock and rap, novelty or humorous rap, rap ballad, satire and women’s rapper?) As one who has had serious conversations with the Negro Renaissance poet, Professor Sterling A. Brown and Georgia rapper Pastor Troy (both sons of Ministers), it occurs to me that both employ African American satire and humor in their ballads. One begins with comparing two unexpurgated texts: “The Ballad of Joe Meek” and “Above The Law.” Both poets provide powerful critiques on justice for Blacks in American society. Issues of Equality versus Hierarchy, theory and practice and the exercising of agency in a democratic setting of whiteness are all located in the works of Brown and Troy. Rap music is multilayered, multigenred and multistyled. Hip Hop poetics demonstrates its maturity in 2008 in ways heretofore unimaginable. Here one finds the tension of paradox, the presence of life tragedies, the profoundest, deepest sense of selfidentification and self-realization. Recent conversations with old school jazz artists revealed stunning ignorance and inexcusable stereotypes of rap music and rap musicians. One has to ask what is the source of such ignorance, such utter disdain for a generation of artists expanding the tradition of African American music and discourse. Perhaps, even more shocking is the failure of African American Studies Departments and Historically Black Colleges to seriously study the Hip Hop Cultural Revolution. Yet, universities from Hamburg, Germany to Sydney, Australia have students seriously studying African American Youth Culture. (Please note the most recent publication on the subject, Global Linguistics Flow by Drs. H. Samy Alim (USA), Ibrahim Awad (Canada) and Alistair Pennycock (Australia), Routledge, 2009. There are a number of questions that come to mind when we seriously discuss this topic. * How can we explore the dynamics of identity in Hip Hop narratives? *What will a close study of Tupac Shakur, Eve and Kurupt teach us about multiple dialogical processes through which the self becomes aware of links with others, renegotiates them, or negotiates new ones? * What can be said of the cultural self that emerges from the lyrical texts commonly known as ‘raps’? * In what ways is Rap music a part of a Black Musical and Cultural continuum? *Are there boundaries to the Hip Hop Nation? * How do we talk about identity when it is at best provisional? *How must we identify and explore the constitutive elements of a hip hop being? Turning to one of the most recent developments in Hip Hop taking place in Northern California, Professor Alim writes, “What began as a local street black American linguistic practice has been mass mediated and mass circulated to millions of youth around the world. The Hyphy Movement that Keak da Sneak, E-40, dem Hoodstarz, The Federation, Mistah F.A. B. and hecka other Yay groups helped to create is a prime example of how a theoretically abstract “ Hip Hop Culture” is brought into focus as a tangible, locally situated set of interrelated cultural practices. Hip Hop is embedded within a cultural matrix of locally relevant, and always evolving, social meanings and discourses. In a political climate where youth programs are all but nonexistent, these youth have carved out a space for themselves, creating a world that privileges their sensibilities, styles and street language, while simultaneously writing themselves into history. “ What Alim describes above is happening in Philadelphia, Brooklyn, East Orange, Lagos, Nairobi, Johannesburg, Chicago, and Los Angeles. African American youth continue to take the lead in inspiring cultural movements that impact the world. 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BOX 14013 - Phila., PA 19122 Offices & Shop: 942 N. Watts St. Phila. PA 19123 (215) 232-5974 Fax: (215) 236-2945 e-mail: Phillyscoop@aol.com R. Sonny Driver: Publisher / Editor Dedicated to the Community People Volume 48 - Number 43 Published every Friday by R.E. Driver Jr. Associates with a Controlled Circulation of over 90,000 readership. Copies are distributed each Friday in Philadelphia, PA and suburbs, Chester, PA, Camden, NJ and Wilmington, Delaware to people and customers in Shopping Malls, Beauty Shops, Restaurants, Night Clubs, Hotels, Theatres, Office Buildings and many other business establishments where there is a high volume of people of all ages. Mail Subscription: $35.00 per year. Unsolicited manuscripts and photos are welcomed but will not be returned unless accompanied by a stamped, self-addressed envelope. SCOOP U.S.A. is a city-wide, community newspaper with a broad range of news and information. Display Advertising Deadline is 5:00 p.m. Monday. Call office for rates and information. The Publisher reserves the right to refuse any advertisement or unsolicited manuscripts. The comments made by the columnists of SCOOP U.S.A. are their own and do not necessarily reflect the opinions of the newspaper or of its staff. SCOOP U.S.A. - Friday, November 21, 2008 -3 Kendal Wilson, Journalist Extraordinaire thera martin-connelly I just had a long conversation with Kendal Wilson; it seems like just the other day. Actually it was two weeks ago at the 23rd annual October Gallery Art Expo show. What is it about the Art Expo and me? For the last two years now at Art Expo, I sit and talk to people who have been meaningful in my life, then within a week or so, they die. Last year in 2007 it was John Skief that I sat and talked with and laughed with at the Art Expo. He was even a guest on the air with me while WURD Broadcast live from the event. This year I sat and talked and laughed a little, with Kendal Wilson and now just two short weeks later, Kendal has gone on home to glory. Little did I know that that conversation I had with him two weeks ago, would be my last conversation with Kendal. Kendal Wilson was an awesome journalist and recorder of history. He is someone whom I looked up to and admired and respected. If I could ever be just one third of the writer that Kendal Wilson was, I’ll be golden. In fact, while I was talking to Kendal Wilson the other day, we were standing in front of the book display for Ducky Birts and he continue sot make his autobiography available for those who wish to buy it. Kendal Wilson was staffing the table for Ducky Birts and at the same time, he had his reporters’ hat on, because he was jotting down notes in his reporter’s notebook. I told Kendal I was near the final chapters of a book I’m writing about my experiences working in Black Radio in Phila-delphia. I told him about some of the stories I have told in my book, using real names and I questioned him as to how to tell the story, tell the truth, and not get sued! We laughed about that and set up a dateto meet later on and discuss the possibilities of him editing the book for me. Kendal Wilson and I both did writing for the late Dr. C. Delores Tucker and for the Philadelphia Martin Luther King, Jr. Association for Nonviolence Inc. (which Dr. Tucker cofounded). In these last years on earth, Kendal flitted about from one small writing assignment to another. He had socalled retired but he wasn’t really retired and I dare to say, he probably had to work a few hours here and there because retirement money is sometimes very evasive for some of us who work in media. It’s just not enough. But even if Kendal Wilson had been a millionaire, I believe he still would have wanted to go out writing to the day he died, which is what he did anyway. The Publisher of this newspaper, R. Sonny Driver was a good friend of Kendal Wilson’s and not so long ago, R. Sonny Driver, Kendal Wilson and Jack Franklin were all honored together. That was a very proud day. For all the great news stories Kendal Wilson wrote and for all the people and organizations he helped through his genius, I wonder how many will remember today that Kendal Wilson helped them along the way? I remember. I talked to a colleague in the media, Bobbie Booker, who writes for the Philadelphia Tribune amongst other media outlets. Bobbie Booker loved and respected Kendal Wilson as much as I did. Here’s what she had to say. “I worked with Kendal for several years and still considered him a colleague. We were just discussing how Kendal would have handled the Barack Obama election as President of the United States. Kendal was still a vital part of the Tribune Newsroom and particularly to our long time colleagues. There was not a week that went by, that Kendal did not come up in conversation where one of our secretaries didn’t reach out to him, where he didn’t leave a message saying ‘Hi’ to us over here at the Tribune and of course we would still see Kendal in the street, so as far as I’m concerned he was still a working journalist. They say he retired but I never saw any evidence of that.” “In 2003, I served as part of a committee of people which included me, Barbara Daniel Cox, Sheila Simmons, who was an editor at the time, at the Tribune, Editorial Secretary here at the Tribune, Brenda Lockhart, Ron Allen, who now works with Senator Hughes; we put together an event called “Celebration of Journalistic Excellence. We honored Jack Franklin, Kendal Wilson and R. Sonny Driver, specifically because they had been partners in the field for a very long time. Kendal did the words and Jack Franklin photographed the events. Sonny Driver published the SCOOP. But that partnership, if you will between Jack Franklin and Kendal Wilson lead to what happened with the Philadelphia Association of Black Journalist about two years ago, where that body in turn, honored those three men of the Black Media. Kendal Wilson’s career spans over more than 35+ years in journalism and public relations and marketing. It also recalled his work as a senior writer for the Philadelphia Tribune where he had focused on civil rights, government, foreign affairs, politics and sports. In 1998 Kendal Wilson was bestowed the National Newspaper Publishers Association, (NNPA) A. Phillip Randolph Award for his series on black family owned funeral homes. Kendal’s involvement in so many arenas of our community was recalled during that celebration we did back in 2003. We had about 200 people there, including Georgie Woods and C. Delores Tucker. It was a stellar event and one that really let Kendal know how much he was appreciated within his community at large.” The Home-Going service for Kendal Wilson will take place this Saturday, Nov. 22, 2008 at Frances Funeral Home, 5201 Whitby Avenue, Philadelphia, PA. The viewing will take place from 2-3pm. The service begins at 3pm and the service is open to the public. Kendal Wilson, you will be sorely missed .FYI---- Listen to 900AM WURD, your information station committed to solutions and Philadelphia’s only African American owned radio station. Normally you can check out yours truly, Thera Martin Connelly, Mondays, 10am-11am and Tues, Thursdays, 10am-12noon as she host News Source 900. Check You can watch and listen to Thera’s show at www.wakeupwithbill.com. All shows on WURD 7am-4pm Mondays-Fridays are accessible at www.wakeupwithbill.com where we video and audio stream. Then check out Thera on Comcast Cable television channel 80 for those with cable in West Philly, Southwest, Manayunk, Roxbourgh, a part of Germantown, a part of North Philly, Overbrook, Wynnfield and East Falls. Thera’s show on cable is seen 7 days a week on Channel 80 at 11am. The show is called News You Can Use. Email Thera at tconnelly1981@hotmail.com Coalition to erect a Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. life-size Bronze Sculpture at the entrance of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. Drive The Artist Sculptor Rebecca-Rose tm (RMFAC Studio) Present Plans for a Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. “Freedom Dream” Monument in Historic Philadelphia. The monument will be made a Gift to the City of Philadelphia as a Legacy and Symbol of International Human Rights and dignity for all people. Ms. Rose, a fourth generation African-American sculptor revealed to the public her designs for the monument, as well as the Coalition’s plans to bring visibility to the Drive, in Dr. King’s honor. This is a history in the making tribute in Philadelphia to Americas Renown Nobel Peace Laureate. This tribute honors Dr. King, the City of Philadelphia, and R. Sonny Driver, Publisher, SCOOP, USA Incorporated. Mr. Driver spearheaded the naming of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Drive, with the support of the City of Philadelphia and over 60,000 citizens in petition. Philadelphia’s leaders, community organizations, cultural families and sponsors are being asked to support the Dr. King’s “Freedom’s Dream” Monument. We ask your support at this time to provide us with a letter of interest if you are able and willing to make this tax-exempt donation. For your contribution of one thousand dollars ($1,000.) dollars, your name or that or your organization’s will be engraved on the granite base of the monument as a living legacy of your support. Neither deposits nor payments are required at this time. Please forward to PJC, the enclosed Expression of Interest Pledge Form, so that we may gather and forward your letter along with others to the Greater Philadelphia Urban Affairs Coalition for they have expressed an interest to be our Fiscal Agent on the project. We welcome an opportunity to talk or meet with you regarding the details. Contacts: Rebecca Rose: (215) 833-9082 (cell), e-mail: /rebeccarosermfac@yahoo.com PLEDGE FORM Please indicate your preliminary interest or pledge below to contribute to the Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Monument fund. No money is required at this time. We will include you in the 2008 Sponsors and Supporters Preview Reception. Our Fiscal agent will follow up for a 501c3 tax exemption for your contribution. Check box: > Donor of $1,000. / Name to be engraved on monument base as testament of support, > Sponsors call for Pledge Options and Return on Investment. > General contributions of any amount are welcomed. > I want to pledge in-kind support, call for details. Name/Title:_______________________ Organization:_____________________ Address:_________________________ City/State/Zip:____________________ Phone: __________________________ Signature:________________________ Email: _________________________ Date:_____________________ junious r. stanton 4 - SCOOP U.S.A. - Friday, November 21, 2008 The Past As Teacher “If firms in the private sector cannot use or refuse to hire low-skilled adults who are willing to take minimum-wage or subminimum wage jobs then the jobs problem for inner-city workers cannot be adequately addressed without considering a policy of public-sector employment of last resort. Indeed until current changes in the labor market are reversed or until the skills of the next generation can be upgraded before it enters the labor market, many workers, especially those who are not in the official labor force, will not be able to find jobs unless the government becomes an employer of last resort.” When Work Disappears The World of the New Urban Poor William Julius Wilson page 115 Several years ago I purchased and read a book by William Julius Wilson a black sociologist entitled When Work Disappears The World of the New Urban Poor. Wilson studied the flight of jobs from large cities to the suburbs and how this situation impacted the lives of the black folks who remained in the city. The book was published in 1996 but the conditions it addressees are timely and germane to today’s economic situation. While reading the book I thought to myself, “What happened in the ‘70's was a prelude to what is happening to the whole US now because jobs are being shipped overseas and US manufacturing is vanishing”. Africans in (America) living in large cities were like canaries in the old coal mines. We are the harbingers of the quality of the air and dangerous conditions deep in the mines. In the late sixties and early seventies when factory jobs moved to the suburbs, down South or were eliminated altogether; black folks experienced a rise in unemployment and many were consigned permanent underclass status. Last hired and first fired meant a rise in joblessness for blacks. If folks didn’t have cars or public transportation wasn’t available to get them to the new suburban industrial parks, they didn’t have access to the relocated jobs. Economists watched as the shipyards in Camden New Jersey and Chester Pa. closed. They kept track of what happened to us when the mills and factories around the country shut down or moved overseas. They chronicled how these economic downturns impacted the people. Wilson’s book takes a sympathetic sociological look at how joblessness impacted black attitudes, social relationships and life in the black community. Currently we are in the most dire economic situation since the Great Depression of the 1930's. The same enti- Autumn’s Late harry polis Hi, this is Autumn Moon again. Now that the election is over, my family is finally getting back to normal. They were so worried; they were forgetting to buy me special treats and food. I’m glad Obama was elected; I don’t think that Navy guy liked cats. He got too angry and I didn’t trust him. Now, Mom has that special chair in her room and I can sleep with her in addition to helping her on the computer. I know she’s more relaxed all the time from my sleeping on her legs. I do that. Since my last report, those two stray cats that lived in the garage, moved into my house. I can’t stand the little black and white one. He tries to climb on Mom and sleep with her, and that’s only for me. I really hate to lower myself to anger, but I hiss at him, warning him away. Usually, it works, and the other times, I have to hit him. Occasionally, I allow him to have a little Mom-time so he doesn’t get depressed. Depressed felines take all their human guardian’s time. The little black and white cat has a friend who came in with him. His friend is blond and beautiful like me. His fur isn’t as long as mine is, but most cats do not reach my high level. However, I accept this blond furball because he respects my superiority. He kisses my fur and goes away. Wonderful! Mom has been feeding a gray cat on the deck. I have been telling her to stop, but she is still doing it. I have not given up. I also told her to contact the Obamas and tell them to get a couple of cats. They are such good people; they deserve the kind of devotion only cats can give. Editor’s Note Autumn Moon is a gorgeous, affectionate Main Coon cat but it’s hard to convince her she is not the center of the earth. Copyright 2006 by Harry Martin Polis and edited by Jaynee Levy-Polis Harry is available for lectures and entertainment with stories and poetry. Contact SCOOP USA, or e-mail Harry ties and forces that created the 1929 Stock market crash and the Great Depression are at work today: the Federal Reserve Bank, Wall Street bankers, the major brokerage houses, the mass media and the government. Market manipulation, fraud, greed and corruption on Wall Street led to the crash of ‘29. They may not have had Hedge Funds back then, but they did have entities called Syndicates and Pools that did the same thing Hedge Funds are doing today only with a lot less money (debt). Do some research into the 1932 Pecora Commission and how its findings led to major changes on Wall Street, how it helped institute legislation to separate the banks and brokerage houses and the creation of the Securities and Exchange Commission supposedly to watch over Wall Street and the stock market. The current financial collapse is a virtual replay of 1929 only the contagion is spreading much farther around the world. It’s like a financial STD epidemic. The Great Depression was not the result of the 1929 Stock Market crash. The crash was a contributing factor, but the proSee “Teacher” page 13 Berean pays Tribute to Oliver Over 30 Years of Support in Good Times and Bad by Marilyn Kai Jewett Berean Institute Family and Friends recently paid tribute to State Rep. Frank L. Oliver, D-195 for his unwavering dedication to the historic school for over 30 years. Oliver has championed the cause for Berean Institute since he was first approached for help by the late Lucille Blondin, daughter of John Porter, a member of the founding Board of Trustees of the historic African American institution. Dr. Matthew Anderson founded Berean Institute 109 years ago to prepare African American students for the world of work and continued education at a time when other institutions’ doors were closed to them. That was a revolutionary act for an era when African people in America were still being lynched. Elected to the Pennsylvania House of Representatives in a special election in 1973, Oliver has evolved into a seasoned statesman who commands the respect of his colleagues on both sides of the aisle. He is the first African American to represent the 195th Legislative District, which includes Berean. Elected longer than anyone in the state legislature, Oliver serves as majority chair of the House Health and Human Services Committee. He also is treasurer of the Democratic City Committee. It was during his first term that the plight of historic Berean Institute came to the attention of Oliver. The administration at Berean was under the impression that Herb Arlene was their legislative point person. However, one of Oliver’s committee people, who was a student at Berean, informed them that Oliver was their new state representative as the result of redistricting. As a result, Berean President Lucille Blondin reached out to Oliver for help. In a meeting with Oliver, Blondin explained that Berean was in danger of being foreclosed upon and owed the bank approximately $280,000. Oliver immediately to went work and contacted the attorney on the writ who confirmed that Berean was facing foreclosure. “When I asked how I could help the situation, the attorney told me Berean needed $280,000 to clear the debt,” explained Oliver. “When I returned to Harrisburg, I introduced legislation to get the funds needed to stop the foreclosure.” During this time, Republicans were the majority in the House. A savvy politician who understood how to get things done, Oliver convinced a Republican colleague to sign on as co-sponsor so the bill would pass without a problem. The bill passed and Oliver was successful in getting the funds to stop the foreclosure. Oliver then turned his attention to the annual state appropriations for Berean. “I found that Berean was receiving less than all of the other state-related schools,” Oliver continued. “Their entire budget was only $300,000! I promised Miss Blondin that I would work to make sure that Berean’s appropriations would be brought to the same level as the other state-related schools in the budget. I also vowed that I would not rest until I got their appropriation to at least $1 million.” Oliver made good on his promise. Berean’s appropriations were established as a line item in the annual state budget and since then, have reached far above that first $1 million. On occasion, Oliver has even secured additional state funds for Berean when needed. He continues to negotiate behind the scene to facilitate the reorganization of the historic school. Berean was transformed into a classy restaurant for the first-rate special event. The people dined on delicious food, enjoyed the musical styling of the Ebonies and showed their love and gratitude for Oliver and Berean. Former Berean employees, students, volunteers, supporters and Oliver’s colleagues turned out to commend him for his dedication. It’s not often that a politician keeps their word for over 30 years. People understood that Oliver is special in that regard. Berean President Lorraine Poole-Naranjo presented Oliver with a beautifully framed collage of the state capitol with his picture embedded. “Mr. Oliver has stood with Berean through all of its challenges over the years,” she said. He has been there through thick and thin. If not for the support of Frank Oliver, Berean would have closed long ago. He’s our man in the Capitol.” Congressman Robert Brady, Councilman at-large William Greenlee, State Senator Shirley Kitchen, State Rep. Elect Vanessa Brown and State Rep. Ron Waters also attended and acknowledged his good deeds. Brady presented Oliver with a citation from the U. S. House of Representatives. Other citations were received from Kitchen and State Sen. Leanna Washington. One of the highlights of the evening was remembrance of Berean from a beautiful 86 year-old sister who was a member of Berean’s drama club in 1935. Oliver, surrounded by his family and staff was clearly moved by the outpouring of gratitude and affection. . Proceeds from the event will support the reorganization of Berean. Just bit of background on Oliver. It was a different world in the 1940s when a young Frank Oliver took an interest in politics. His entrance into politics was a humble one – a street worker who rang doorbells urging people to register to vote. This was a difficult time for African people entering the political scene. African people still referred to themselves as “colored” or Negro and Jim Crow racism was the rule of the day all over the nation. African Americans were generally discouraged from voting and were sometimes lynched for trying to do so. Philadelphia was then a Republican city. Oliver had his job cut out for him but he was ready for the challenge. In 1948, Oliver ran for committeeperson in the 29th Ward where he has lived all his life. He served as chair of the ward and eventually became its leader in 1970. Oliver has seen a lot of changes during his political career. When he first entered politics, there were few African Americans in elected office in Pennsylvania. But by the time he got to Harrisburg in 1973, folks like Lucien Blackwell, Hardy Williams, Jim Barber, Joel Johnson and Freeman Hankins were serving in the legislature. Republicans were in the majority and the beloved K. Leroy Irvis, D-Allegheny, was House Minority Whip. Only a couple of African Americans chaired committees. When Irvis became the first African American speaker of the house in 1977, things changed for the Democratic Party and for Oliver. Under Irvis’ leadership, Oliver became majority chair of the powerful State Government Committee in 1983. In this position, he determined the successful passage of legislation dealing with election law, pension law, the state constitution, administrative oversight of the State Civil Service Commission and the Pennsylvania Human Relations Commission among other agencies. During this time, Oliver introduced an amendment to the Civil Service Act and the Human Relations Act, which enhanced first amendment freedoms and affirmative action benefits for women and “minority” civil service employees. Oliver was the first to introduce a bill to make the race designation optional on voter registration forms. He also was the first to introduce legislation to make Martin Luther King, Jr.’s birthday a state holiday. One of the things of which he is most proud was his ability to get 73 Senatorial Scholarships for African Americans. For six years Oliver introduced and worked on legislation that is now law which allows ex-offenders convicted of drug offenses to get a second chance to support their families legally with the help of public assistance. The law exempts individuals convicted of felony drug offenses from the federal lifetime ban on receiving food stamps and cash assistance. Oliver also introduced a resolution that called for the Health and Human Services Committee to study the problem of the lack of supermarkets in urban and underserved communities in Pennsylvania. Oliver held hearings in Philadelphia, Harrisburg and Pittsburgh to document the problem. As a result of those hearings, $150 million was designated for the development of supermarkets throughout the Commonwealth. It’s ironic that new supermarkets are planned for other parts of the city while the 195th district is ignored. But, it’s not because Oliver didn’t fight for it. It’s all political. In spite of all he has done for the 195th Legislative District, the City of Philadelphia and the Commonwealth, Oliver remains humble about his accomplishments – never seeking publicity for his good deeds. Many politicians give a fake show and lip service. However, when Oliver gives his word, he keeps it. Oliver vowed to continue fighting for and supporting historic Berean Institute “That’s why the Berean Institute Family and Friends designated this day to show our love and sincere gratitude for all he has done and continues to do to keep this historic institution alive,” said Poole-Naranjo. “We will never forget what he has done for Berean and this community.” SCOOP U.S.A. - Friday, November 21, 2008 - ChildWatch Is the U.S. Living Its Creed and Preparing for the Future? How America Ranks in Investing in Children At this transformative moment in American life with the election of Senator Barack Obama as our first African American and 44th President of the United States of America, we citizens must now roll up our sleeves and help translate this new presidency into a transformation of America’s investment priorities and values—real change. Every child's life has equal value and our nation has a responsibility to ensure every child a level playing field, healthy start and fair chance to achieve a successful future. We do not do that today. I believe our failure to protect and invest in all children is America's economic and moral Achilles heel and will undermine our competitive leadership capacity in the 21st century’s globalized world economy. Do you think the following facts reflect a nation living out its creed and preparing for the future? We are 1st in gross domestic product; 1st in the number of billionaires in the world; 1st in health expenditures; 1st in military technology; 1st in defense expenditures; and 1st in military weapons exports. But we have the highest relative child poverty; the highest birth rates among teens (ages 15 to 19); we are last in protecting children against gun violence; we have the highest number of persons incarcerated; and we are the country with the widest gap between the rich and the poor. If we just compare Black child well-being with other nations, 62 countries have lower infant mortality rates including Sri Lanka; more than 100 nations have lower rates of low birthweight births including Algeria, Botswana and Panama; and Black women in the United States are more likely to die from complications of pregnancy or childbirth than mothers in Uzbekistan. Yet, the United States of America and Somalia (which has no legally constituted government), have the distinction of being the only two United Nations members that have failed to ratify the U.N. Convention on the Rights of the Child. marian wright edelman 5 It is time to change course and close the gap between rich and poor that is at its highest level ever recorded. We must also end the racial disparities in life chances. The first act our new President and Congress can take in 2009 to combat poverty and these racial disparities, which help push children into the cradle to prison pipeline, is to guarantee all nine million uninsured children and all pregnant women comprehensive health coverage as our country works to ensure health coverage for all 46 million uninsured Americans. Rash passage in early 2009 of an inadequate State Children’s Health Insurance Program (SCHIP) bill tailored in 2008 to overcome a Bush veto (it didn't), that would leave six million children behind and is not comprehensive, is not the change our children or nation need. Options exist to do it right including extending SCHIP funding through 2009 and covering state budget shortfalls, until a more comprehensive bill is passed guaranteeing all uninsured children comprehensive benefits, regardless of the lottery of geography. The health care and lives of our babies and children should not depend on whether they live in red or blue or rich or poor states. Many more children are likely to be impoverished during this period of economic downturn, and many more will become uninsured and need help. So the need for a comprehensive health safety net is urgent but doable in 2009. No one should say we cannot afford cost effective health coverage for all uninsured and underinsured children as some have said in 2008. Congress told us $70 billion could not be found over five years to cover all children with comprehensive guaranteed benefits and prenatal care for mothers. Instead Congress passed a $35 billion SCHIP bill funded by a tobacco tax but without needed reforms, leaving six million children behind. Yet they found $700 billion in a few weeks to bail out Wall Street, which so recklessly brought us to an economic standstill. The increasing job and housing losses require an adequate safety net to catch millions of children in a time of growing need. So I urge our new President and Congress to act thoughtfully yet urgently to meet the crucial health needs of nine million uninsured children and stimulate our economy through an expanded comprehensive child health bill, either as part of universal health coverage legislation or as a stand-alone first crucial step towards that goal. That’s the change children need now to get a healthy start in life. For more information about the Children's Defense Fund, go to http://www.childrensdefense.org/. Mrs. Edelman's Child Watch Column also appears each week on The Huffington Post. Marian Wright Edelman is President of the Children's Defense Fund and its Action Council whose Leave No Child Behind® mission is to ensure every child a Healthy Start, a Head Start, a Fair Start, a Safe Start and a Moral Start in life and successful passage to adulthood with the help of caring families and communities. Mrs. Edelman has released her new book, The Sea Is So Wide and My Boat Is So Small: Charting a Course for the Next Generation, a call to action for all Americans to address the urgent needs of the country's youth. The book is a series of letters to a variety of audiences—educators, faith leaders, youth, mothers, elected officials and concerned citizens nationwide that reflect on the social and economic progress as well as the setbacks since Dr. King's death 40 years ago. Mrs. Edelman challenges each audience to step up and take action at this pivotal moment to ensure a level playing field for the next generation. Learn more. HCA launches new careers for Recent Grads HomeCare Associates’ North Philadelphia Graduates are Prepared to Care $69,000 in College Scholarships Available to High School Seniors Ronald McDonald House Charities (RMHC®) and the McDonald’s Owner/Operators of the Greater Philadelphia Region are seeking qualified applicants from the Greater Philadelphia Region to enter the RMHC Scholars program; the RMHC/Future Achievers® program for African American high school seniors; and the RMHC/HACER® program for Latino high school seniors. Fifteen (15) total scholarships are awarded for each program, two (2) at $5,000 and thirteen (13) at $1,000. RMHC offers college scholarships to all high school seniors who demonstrate academic achievement, community involvement, financial need and plan on attending a two- or four-year college during the next academic year. “RMHC scholarship winners are inspiring young leaders who excel in the classrooms while volunteering in their communities,” said John Durante, President of the Ronald McDonald House Charities of the Philadelphia Region, Inc. “We are proud to recognize their accomplishments and contribute to their continuing education.” Applicants will be asked to submit a high school transcript, a letter of recommendation and a personal statement detailing their background and community involvement. Applications are available in high school guidance offices and must be completed and postmarked by no later than February 2, 2009. Students, parents or educators who want an application or additional information regarding any of the scholarships should call (215) 790-4320. ABOUT RMHC In addition to the scholarship programs, Ronald McDonald House Charities, a non-profit, 501 (c)(3) corporation, creates, finds and supports programs that directly improve the health and well being of children. RMHC of the Philadelphia Region, Inc. supports three McDonald Houses; the St. Christopher’s Foundation for Children Ronald McDonald Care Mobile and non-profit organizations benefiting children through grants. RMHC receives support from McDonald’s Corporation, McDonald’s Owner/Operators, corporate donors and McDonald’s customers. For more information, visit www.rmhc.org. ABOUT McDONALD’S McDonald’s is the leading foodservice retailer with more than 30,000 local restaurants serving quality food to nearly 50 million customers in more than 100 countries each day. There are more than 300 McDonald’s Restaurants in the Greater Philadelphia Region that are owned and operated by nearly 70 independent franchisees and McDonald’s Corporation. For more information about McDonald's visit www.mcdonalds.com. Pictured here on graduation day at HCA headquarters are 74th class members from North Philadelphia: (from left) Ikea Owens, Karen Hyman, and Tamelle Young. At a time when both elder care and public assistance are concerns, Home Care Associates is solving two problems with one program. The company provides career opportunities for low income men and women throughout the region, and provides quality home care and personal assistance to clients at home. Members of the 74th class of home care aides recently graduated after completing HCA’s intensive training program. Like others before them, graduates who work full-time will be eligible for health insurance benefits and transportation stipends. They will also have the opportunity to purchase stock in the company, participate in decisionmaking and receive specialized training in caring for physically or behaviorally disabled adults and hospice patients. Graduates received 150 hours of paid home health aide training in four weeks. During that period, they received 60 hours of clinical training, 30 hours of personal care skill development, four hours of job shadowing, six hours of skills demonstration and 50 hours of “soft skill” development. Since 1993, HCA has trained and provided jobs for more than 800 people, many of whom are former public assistance recipients. The company, which has been nationally recognized for its innovative job training and quality health care, offers an integrated approach to work- force development that includes recruitment and screening, basic and specialized training, job placement, mentoring, job counseling, peer support and in-service opportunities. HCA currently employs more than 200 home health aides. Its innovative approach to job training and health care services has been recognized by the Governor’s Achievement Award, the American Society on Aging’s Best Practice Award, the Better Business Bureau’s Best Health Service Award, and the Philadelphia County Assistance Office’s Employer Recognition Award. For more information about HCA or its training program, call 215-735-0677 or visit www.homecareassociatespa.com Reach One, Teach One Let’s Save the Children SCOOP on the web and in print www.scoopusanewspaper.com 6 - SCOOP U.S.A. - Friday, November 21, 2008 sherri y. johnson Book Arthur Cleous Young on New Book It gives me great pleasure to interview an up and coming children’s book author, Cleous Young who will soon be a household name. He is promoting his new book entitled “The Mountain of Miracles.” The book release celebration will be held on Saturday, November 29th, 6pm at Walter D. Palmer Leadership Partners Charter School. The celebration will highlight Mr. Young as the first local author to produce and environmentally friendly book as well as a book that features music, poems and puzzles. We took time to speak with Mr. Young about his passion and his book. Sit back and enjoy. SYJ: Thank you for taking time out of your schedule to interview. Please tell our readers a little about your ministry and your upcoming book? Young: I’ve been secretly building my ministries for the past seven years, which was more of a nurturing situation. Within those seven years I had to learn who I am as a person, what I was chosen to do, and what tools will I use to carry out my duty. Once I learned these things then I realized that faith is the substance of things HOPED for, and the evidence of things not seen. So my ministry is deeply rooted when it comes to using Faith to build the things I HOPE for. At times, people may not see the faith in what I do because it is so deeply rooted, but they always see the HOPE that comes from it. If you look at the definition of the word HOPE, then you can see that my upcoming book, “The Mountain of Miracles,” reflects HOPE. It is what my faith has given me. SYJ: What was your inspiration for the book and its release? Young: My inspiration for creating the book comes from wanting to make a difference in the lives of those who will read the book. Although it is a fictional book they are real life learning situations that are subliminally written in it. As far as the release, it’s only natural that when a person has a good product then the best thing to do is to share it with others so they could enjoy the goodness of it too. SYJ: What other books have you written in the past? Young: I’ve written two other books: “The Prophetic Artist” and “The Magical Rug.” The Prophetic Artist was the revamped into The Mountain of Miracles for the reason of the format in which it is today and soon the “The Magical Rug” will be revamp to fit this new format. SYJ: What authors do you admire or are there any you pattern your work after? Young: I’m not sure if this may sound awkward but as an author I try to stay away from other authors work as much as I can. And this has to do with the pattern and things that I write. The more I read another person’s work the more likely it is that the person’s style will start to rub off on me. Soon I’ll find myself writing like that person. I love being creative and love to offer a little difference at times. So when I write I want it to reflect who I am and not what I adopted from someone else. I feel more at peace with myself when I practice this. SYJ: Your release seems much different than book releases most are use to in the sense that you will be having comedy, singing and a variety of activities happening. Why did you opt to have a release in that manner? Young: This is the little difference in me that will at times come out. With the book in the CD-ROM format, it strikes a CHANGE from the regular paperback or hard cover. So I started to change a lot of the things that will be attached to it. I changed my MySpace page, my website, and if you notice on the cover it says, “Created by” not the regular “Written by.” Therefore, I had to find a change in the way I will bring it into the world. So I borrowed the concepts of some other things that I was working on and it fit well with the change I was looking for. As a matter a fact, the whole concept came out even better than I envisioned. I’m even starting to learn that there is more to event than the concept on what it was built on. And I am happy for Mr. Obama’s victory as the new President. It shows me that the world, not just the U S, is ready for a change and I’m even happier knowing that “The Mountain of Miracles is adding to the changes.” We will continue with Part II of our discussion with Mr. Young next week. In the meantime, make sure you mark your calendars for next Saturday, November 29th for “The Mountain of Miracles” Book Release Celebration at 6pm at Walter D. Palmer Leadership Learning Partners Charter School located 910 N. 6th Street in Philadelphia hosted by DJ Inocent from WKDU. For more information call: 215.715.2323. CD Spotlight If you would like to be a part of Supreme Gospel Entertainment’s reporter and/or promotions team, please contact us at www.supremegospel.org or 215.843.3355. Until the next column, remain encouraged. Award-winning Christian Group Benita Farmer& New Journey Take Industry By Storm With Latest CD "Come Home" (Washington, D.C.) Mount Laurel, New Jersey has much to rave about with the recent successes of Benita Farmer & New Journey. The groundbreaking group, known for their fresh, captivating sound, has already received notable accolades. The Christian ensemble's leader, Benita Farmer, was recognized as New Jersey's Top Independent Female Vocalist in 2003 and 2004 and also in Ebony Magazine as one of the Best New Artists in Black Music. Recently, Farmer was honored when her group made it to the second round ballot of the 2008-2009 Stellar Awards, the gospel version of the GRAMMY Awards, as Female Vocalist of the Year and Best Contemporary Group or Duo of the Year. The recognition is a capstone to success that Benita Farmer & New Journey's sophomore release, Come Home, has garnered. Made up of praise and worship leaders and "preachers kids", Benita Farmer & New Journey has carved out a niche with a sound that merges Contemporary Christian, gospel, rock, R&B and Latin music. Tracks like the lead single "Higher", with its CCM and pop stylings, and "Dance of Eternity", a potpourri of a variety of musical influences, easily showcase the group's diversity. Farmer, Minister of Music at Church of the Living God in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania and a native of the City of Brotherly Love, is the daughter of legendary gospel artist Barbara Ward-Farmer. Distributed by Edmondson Communications, Inc. and produced by Farmer's brother, Lawrence Farmer, III, and Anthony Bell (Jill Scott, Anthony Hamilton, Usher), Come Home has caught the attention of gospel announcers nationwide with singles in rotation on close to 250 stations. For more information on Benita Farmer & New Journey, go to www.benita4newjourney.com or www.MySpace.com/Benit a4NewJourney. SCOOP Top CDS, CASS & DVDS ONE DAY SALES TUESDAY Electronics WEDNESDAY - DVD’s SATURDAY - Gospel MUSIC BOX RECORD SHOP 2713 West Girard Ave. 215-235-3317 LaRose Jazz Club 1. T.I ............................................“Paper Trail” (Atlantic) 2. Young Jeezy .............................“Recession” (Def Jam) 3. Jennifer Hudson ................“Jennifer Hudson” (Arista) 4. NE-YO.....................“Year of the Gentleman” (Island) 5. LL Cool J .....................................“Exit 13” (Def Jam) 6. Nelly ......................................“Brass Knuckles” (UNI) 7. Joe ...........................“Joe Thomas, New Man” (Kedar) 8. Natalie Cole .....................“Still Unforgettable” (DMI) 9. NAS .................................................“NAS” (Def Jam) 10. John Legend.....................................“Evolver” (Sony) 11. Eric Benet .............................Love & Life” (Reprise) 12. The Game .........................................“LAX” (Geffen) 13. Al Green ...................................“Lay it Down” (EMI) 14. Terrence Howarf .......“Shine Through It” (Columbia) 15. Plies .....................“Definition of Real” (Slip-n-Slide) 16. Noel Gourdia .......................“After My Time” (Epic) 17. Rick Ross ....................................“Trilla” (Polygram) 18. DJ K Haled.................................“We Global” (Koch) 19. Robin Thicke ..............“Something Else” (Star Trak) 20. Jazmine Sullivan ....................“Fearless” (J Records) 21. Usher ...................................“Here I Stand” (LaFace) 22. Raphael Saadiq ................“The Way I See It” (Sony) 23. Mary J. Blige ...................“Growing Pains” (Geffen) 24. Lil Wayne .................“Tha Carter III” (Cash Money) 25. T. Pain ...................................“THR 33 Ringn” (Jive) WEBB’S DEPARTMENT STORE 2152 Ridge Avenue (215) 765-9187 5531 Germantown Ave. 215-248-4415 or 215-844-5818 1310 N. Broad St. TICKET LOCATIONS Webb’s Dept. - Ridge Ave. at 22nd St.*Donn’s Doo - 15th & Susquehanna Ave.*Record Box - 2713 W. Girard Ave.*Sound of Upper Darby 64 S. 69th St.*Monk Audio - 5141 Baltimore Ave.*Sound of Market 15 S.11th St.*Mom’s Kitchen - 2319 Ridge Ave.*Dowling Palace - 1319 N. Broad St.FOR MORE INFO 215-236-9888 or 1-433-857-2771 IN CAMDEN, N.J. Lori’s Records - 1206 Haddon Ave.*7th & Kaighn Lounge - 7th & Kaighn Ave.*Krystal Lounge - 789 Chestnut St. Off Broadway Lounge - 821 Spruce St. Every MONDAY JAZZ JAM SESSIONS 6 until 9 pm Compact Discs & Cassettes * Gospel, Old & New * R&B * Jazz * Blues * Rap, (Old & New) * Gospel Videos * Greeting Cards * 45’s * 12” Records (Old & New) Large Selection of Stereo Needles & Cartridges All Gospel CD’s & DVD’s 10% Off SCOOP U.S.A. - Friday, November 21, 2008 - 7 Performances propel Secret Life of Bees Janes Memorial United Methodist Church 136th Church Anniversary Janes Memorial United Methodist Church, 47 East Haines street in Germantown, will celebrate its 136th Church Anniversary on Sunday, November 23, 2008. The celebration for this momentous occasion will feature Bishop Peggy Johnson, the newly assigned Bishop of the Eastern PA Annual Conference as Guest Preacher for the 10:45 worship service. Following morning worship, there will be a delicious meal in the fellowship hall. The day will conclude with a beautiful afternoon concert presented by the Clayton White Singers at 3:30 P.M. There is no charge, though a free will offering will be collected. For information contact the church office at 215 844 9564. Janes Memorial is a community of believers who are actively involved in the following missions and ministries: 1) the development of a commu- nity-based elementary school; 2) a community education program that offers free computer training courses, health/nutrition courses, and financial management workshops; 3) relief trips to Katrina devastated communities on the Gulf Coast; 4) the Black College Tours, which is a series of free tours and visits to historically black colleges and universities for neighborhood high school students; 5) free college entrance essay/SAT workshops; 6) health fairs with free vaccinations for senior citizens, infants, and others who cannot afford necessary vaccinations; 7) the Shalom Arts Academy, a community based arts program that offers free classes in dance, voice, and various instruments to atrisk children in the greater Philadelphia area; and a host of other programs and ministries. Submitted by the Janes Publicity Committee formances from FANNING, LATIFAH, KEYS, OKENADO and HUDSON. While this is indeed a moving tale on sisterly solidarity, convincingly set in an era of racial turmoil and discrimination; I was personally taken aback by the ritualistic spiritual sisterhood meetings depicting these Black women in what clearly appeared to me to be the idol worship of a Black Woman (God) of WOOD, which included the Jada Pinkett Smith ritualistic touching of this wooden gods heart if you were in need of further endurance, and an even more absurd tale that accompanies the ritualistic setting. I deemed this to be the only stain upon this well written and directed (GINA PRICE-BYTHEWOOD) production. The heralding of sisterhood and the resilience of womankind is all commendable, but this particular aspect of the story was borderline offensive and even mildly mockable. This preposterous scene is only salvaged via FANNINGS keenly executed mark of approaching and touching the wooden Black Madonna which sparks her memory banks to flood back to a childhood trauma that had been previously stymied. Entertainment Editor janet walters levite In 2002 a bestselling novel entitled THE SECRET LIFE OF BEES was written by a White woman by the name of SUE MONK KIDD. Set in 1964 South Carolina; it was the coming of age and discovery tale of an emotionally displaced 14 year old White girl (portrayed by the incomparable child actress DAKOTA FANNING as LILY OWENS) and her blossoming while under the auspices of four strong-willed Black women; three of them being The Boatwright sisters. QUEEN LATIFAH handily stars as AUGUST BOATWRIGHT the matriarchal presence. JUNE BOATWRIGHT is the ironwilled, seemingly disdainful and hyper-critical baby sister, sharply portrayed by neo-soul singer ALICIA KEYS, and MAY BOATWRIGHT (portrayed by Academy Award Nominee SOPHIE OKENADO of HOTEL RHWANDA) is the tender and off-centered sister whose emotional dysfunction is only stabilized via the tightly woven fabric of the BOATWRIGHT sibling trust. The fourth Black woman is portrayed by entertainment industry golden girl, Academy Award winner, JENNIFER HUDSON as ROSALEEN DAISE; Lily's prideful caretaker on the lam from affronting a local White male via pouring her tobacco spit on to his feet. When asked why she wrote a story about BLACK WOMEN, the White SUE MONK KIDD reportedly responded, “BECAUSE I GREW UP SURROUNDED AROUND BLACK WOMEN. I FEEL THEY ARE LIKE HIDDEN ROYALTY DWELLING AMONG US, AND WE NEED TO RUPTURE OUR OLD ASSUMPTIONS AND DEVELOP THE WILLINGNESS TO SEE THEM AS THEY ARE." This being noted, after watching this fictional account come to life via the big screen, I have discerned that Ms. Kidd's exposure to the essence of strong, progressive Black women has indeed been well executed via this tale. It could have easily been written by a Black woman. In short THE SECRET LIFE OF BEES is the tale of LILY OWENS; a young girl saddled with a mildly abusive and dysfunctional father; both haunted by the loss of her mother but via entirely opposite rationales. LILY eventually flees the home of her father with her caretaker ROSALEEN in tow, and embarks upon the majestic homestead of AUGUST BOATWRIGHT; a successful HONEY entrepreneur and her family of sisters whom LILY believes is connected to her deceased mother. In the BOATWRIGHT home she finds a safe haven, acceptance, an extended family, and the ultimate recognition that there is love and redemption in what is seemingly a world of rejection and abandon. THE SECRET LIFE OF BEES (Produced by WILL SMITH and executive produced by JADA PINCKETT SMITH) is elevated first and foremost via its facile per- by Yanina Carter, Film Review Philly Beat Here’s what’s at the movies: Soul Man featuring the late Bernie Mac and Samuel L. Jackson recently hit theaters and is getting a lot of play since this is the last film comedian and King of Comedy Bernie Mac performed in. Beyonce who has been out promoting her single Put A Ring on It is now promoting her new movie, ”Cadillac Record” which also stars Beyonce as the legendary blues singer Etta James set to be released this month. The movie also stars actors Jeffrey Wright, Cedric the Entertainer and Columbus Short. Did you hear that – that the hit new teen vampire movie, Twilight has girls going crazy over the worlds hottest young vampire “Robert Pattinson” of Harry Potter, who stopped through Philly to promote the movie. Apparently the kids have read the book and were anticipating the movie. They slept out overnight at King of Prussia just to see the star. Jada Pinkett Smith, Chris Rock, Ben Stiller, and Cedric the Entertainer returns in the kids flick Madagascar Escape 2 Africa that racked up over $50 million in one week. Now, tell me do you know the name of the character that Jada Pinkett Smith plays in this flick – the first three that provide the correct answer will get tickets to any movie at the Pearl Theater, have their picture taken for Scoop USA and will have a promo spot on Philly What’s Up. So – come on send your answer to Yaniworld@msn.com. That’s yaniworld@msn.com “The Chronicles of Narnia: The Exhibition” will make its East Coast debut at The Franklin Institute Philadelphia on November 28, 2008, one of the biggest family week- Villa Teen Centers Mayor Nutter and the new President of the Philadelphia Chamber of Commerce, David Cohen asked our corporate partners to step-up and assist the City of Philadelphia in the midst of the recent budget cuts and trying financial times. That is exactly what the Philadelphia based urban apparel company Villa is doing. They have partnered with the Recreation department to create three Villa Teen Centers. The Villa Teen centers will focus on college preparation, youth leadership development, and career development. Programs will include SAT preparation, Communication and Leadership, Youth Entrepreneurship, and Chess. The first Villa Center will be launched at Martin Luther King Recreation Center. Villa will invest $25,000.00 into the Martin Luther King Recreation Teen Center for physical improvements and programming. This is not the first time they have partnered with Martin Luther King Recreation Teen Center. They organized a series of clean-ups at our facilities the last two summers and they recently donated $1,000.00 to one facility. Attracting teenagers to recreation centers for educational programming is difficult, which is why the Recreation Department’s newly forged partnership Villa is so valuable. Villa is an ideal partner for the Recreation Department because they are tuned in to what teenagers want. They sell all the must have clothing and acces- There is no one stand-out performance in this film. All five principal actresses deliver equally and utterly regal portrayals. FANNING as the abused LILY is blossoming out of her childhood and this film serves as a supreme vehicle to highlight her continued evolution as one of the film industries most naturally gifted talents. This also stands to be noted for LATIFAH, KEYS, HUDSON and OKENADO. This production team could not have summoned a more glowing ensemble of actresses. They were all absolutely spectacular. Its rating of PG-13 is due to a couple of mildly disturbing images, but all in all Hollywood has once again delivered the public one of its rare family gems. THE SECRET LIFE OF BEES measures THREE AND THREE QUARTER SCOOPS and these performances are a MUST SEE. Run see it now while it's still in theaters. Scoopjwl@aol.com rating “ 3.75 out of “5” scoops Janet Walters Levite is an optioned Screenwriter. ends of the year. Based on the blockbuster film series and fictional books, the 10,000-square-foot, state-of-the-art entertainment and educational exhibition will offer visitors the opportunity to tour scenes from the famed literary fantasy world of Narnia. Through authentic costumes, props and set dressings from the magical Narnia films, visitors will enter three-dimensional settings that combine the wonders of science with aspects of fantasy. Congratulations goes out to Eric Ward and Sharif Ward of the Keeping It Real Tour, the tour which is set up like a town meeting hits over 60 inner city schools each year. Just this week the Tour came to Kensington International Business School where over 100 all male students were encouraged to stay in school, and received a very inspirational speach from Tracee Hunt of Philadelphia Coca Cola Bottling Company who spoke about her ambitions as a youngster which lead her to her successful career, and opportunities that exist for young high school graduates. Part of the tour included a tie tying contest where the best tie tied would receive a full suit and shoes and shirts and some 5 student received $10 to write an essay on such successful folks likeTyler Perry and Magic Johnson, if the students complete the task they will receive a $100 each. Philadelphia International Records just released a 71 song CD called Love Train: The Sound of Philadelphia. The box set features music like Wake Up Everybody, Back Stabbers, Me and Mrs. Jones and the list goes on. Check it out. Well, local filmmaker Mike Dennis, best known for Reeblack Film Series, was acknowledged for his short film called, The 13th Amendment where he followed a 90 year old great, great grand mother on her trek to vote. Having voted her entire life this is the first time she voted for a Black president. The five minute short story has been acknowledged by many locals and the White House. Congratulations Mike. Don’t forget to check me out this week on Trudy Haynes’ “Philly What’s Up” on TV 35, Sunday at 8 a.m. when you will hear about this and more… Or view it on-line at www.WPHATV.com Well, That’s the Philly Beat!!! sories for teenagers and young adults. Additionally, their stores are the epitome of cool. There is a live D.J. playing the latest Hip-Hop and R&B music at the stores. Celebrities regularly make appearances at the store. The following celebrities recently made an appearance at a Villa store: NBA Superstar Lebron James, Rap legend Russell Simmons and Boxing champion Bernard Hopkins. The first of the three Villa Centers will open the week of November 24th at Martin Luther King Recreation Center, located at 22nd and Cecil B. Moore. Oliver to offer free flu shots State Rep. Frank L. Oliver, D-Phila., has announced that his office will offer flu shots to his constituents in November and December. Free flu vaccinations will be available from 9 a.m. to noon four Tuesdays in a row, beginning Nov. 25. The other three dates will be Dec. 2, Dec. 9 and Dec. 16. All will be provided in Oliver’s office, 2839 W. Girard Ave. by Quality Community Health Care Inc. “I think it’s very important to the health and safety of my constituents that my office provide this serSee “Flu Shots” next page 8 -SCOOP U.S.A. - Friday, November 21, 2008 Philadelphia Seminar Hears Friends of Eden and ATAC by Junious Ricardo Stanton At their November meeting The Philadelphia Seminar invited Cecelia Keller, Junious Rhone and Michael Cord to address the membership and discuss the recent vandalism at the historic Eden Cemetery located in Collingdale Pa. Cecelia Keller is an activist who has written letters and stories seeking support for the cemetery which dates back to the late 1800's. Ms Keller is incensed at the recurring desecration of the African-American cemetery. She showed a video documenting the malicious destruction neighboring whites have inflicted on the head stones, graves and cemetery property. Junious Rhone, a member of The Friends of Eden Cemetery, shared a brief history of the cemetery, highlighted the notable African-Americans interred there and detailed the vandalism that has occurred over the years. Activist attorney Michael Coard spoke about the work the Avenging The Ancestors Coalition did to force the United States government to first acknowledge and then commemorate the existence and official sanction and the role of slavery in the United States. ATAC demanded the government admit and memorialize the fact George Washington kept African slaves at his residence in Philadelphia when it was the capital of the United States of America while Washington served as president. Coard exhorted the Seminar members to be proactive and take the initiative to raise the money to build a wall or fence to protect the cemetery. In July vandals knocked over and desecrated over two hundred head stones and grave markers. “If we were able to change history as we know it in America down at Sixth and Market just regular black folks forcing the government to do the right thing, we certainly should be able to do something to protect those who are buried at Eden. What we need to do as black folks is stop begging and stop pleading... If we can get state or federal and city funding to erect a wall or fence fine but its our grand parents and great grand parents who are buried there. We shouldn’t expect other people to do for us what we aren’t willing to do for ourselves. It’s very important we have a do for self mentality.” The Philadelphia Seminar is an organization dedicated to the exchange of ideas, the awareness of public issues and current events. Currently the Friends of Historic Shown above at the Philadelphia Seminar Meeting are Junious Rhone, Philadelphia Seminar President Norman K Spencer, Michael Coard and Cecelia Keller. Eden Cemetery are seeking memberships and donations to provide security for the premises and protect property. For more information call the Friends of Historic Eden Cemetery at (610) 583-876376. Flu Shots Continued from prev. page vice,” Oliver said. "Good Temple and Impact Services present 2008 "Making an Impact Award" to Congressman Brady health habits can protect against the flu, but the best way to prevent it is to get vaccinated." Flu season typically occurs between November and March and can be a serious health threat, especially to children, the elderly and people with compromised immune systems. The shots are available to anyone interested, with shots for seniors and those at high risk being administered first. For more information, residents may call 215684-3738. Oliver represents the 195th Legislative District, which includes portions of North Philadelphia and portions of West Philadelphia. Congressman Brady receives " Making an Impact Award" from Joseph W. "Chip" Marshall, III, President and CEO of Temple University Health System (l.) and John MacDonald, President of Impact Services. Impact Services Corporation and Temple University Health System presented Congressman Robert A. Brady (D., PA) with the 2008 "Making an Impact Award," Nov. 12. The award was given in recognition of his strong legislative support for high-quality trauma and behavioral health programs and his efforts to provide job placement, housing and family service for the Nation's veterans. The award was presented by Joseph W. "Chip" Marshall, III, President and CEO of Temple University Health System; and John MacDonald, President of Impact Services, which provides employment training, housing, community and economic development services to Philadelphians in need. Calling Congressman Brady, "one of the lions of Congress," Marshall said that the ability to provide high quality medical and trauma care throughout the Temple University Healthcare System Hospital would not be possible without Congressman Brady's steadfast support. During the last 15 years Impact Services Corporation has provided transitional housing for 1,700 formerly homeless vets and placed over 2,500 veterans into full time employment, MacDonald said, "With the support of people like Congressman Brady new vets returning from Iraq and Afghanistan facing multiple traumatic injuries Post traumatic stress disorder and other psychological strain from repeated tours of duty can expect support and care from the community and institutions that exist to serve them." Congressman Brady, the author of The National Heroes Credit Protection Act, which protects the credit ratings of military service members while serving in combat said he was honored to receive the award and he remains committed to supporting veterans and community accessible healthcare. "I intend to continue to do all I can to support those who have risked life and limb in the defense of our country." When it comes to your wants in memory of history, there’s only one place you can get all of the OBAMA wears and more Visit the PEOPLE’S CHOICE CLOTHING store located at 531 Avenue of the States in Chester. See ad on page 14. SCOOP U.S.A. - Friday, November 21, 2008 - Black Histor y November 21st- November 23rd 1654-Richard Johnson, a free black, granted 100 acres of land in Northampton County for importing two persons. 1865-Shaw University was founded. 1918-Henry B. Delany elected suffragan bishop of the Protestant Episcopal diocese of North Carolina. 1933-S.H. Love patents improved vending machine, Patent No.1936515. 1984-TransAfrica's Randall Robinson, congressional delegate Walter Fauntroy, and US Civil Rights Commissioner Mary Francis Berry are arrested at a sit-in against apartheid at the South African Embassy in Washington, DC November 22nd 1865-Mississippi legislature enacted Black Codes which restricted the rights and freedom of movement of the freedmen. The Black Codes enacted in Mississippi and other Southern states virtually reenslaved the freedmen. In some states any white could arrest any Black. In other states minor officials could arrest Black "vagrants" and "refractory and rebellions Negroes" and force them to work on roads and levees without pay. "Servants" in South Carolina were required to work from sunrise to sunset, to be quiet and orderly and go to bed at "reasonable hours." It was a crime in Mississippi for Blacks to own farm land; in South Carolina Blacks had to get a spe- cial license to work outside the domestic and farm laborer categories. 1871-Lt. Gov. Oscar J. Dunn died suddenly in the midst of a bitter struggle for control of the Louisiana state government. Dunn aides charged that he was poisoned. 1884-T. Thomas Fortune started New York Freeman, which later became the New York Age. 1884-The Philadelphia Tribune founded by Christopher J. Perry. 1893-Teacher and historian, Alrutheus A Taylor was born 1930-Elijah Muhammad founds the Nation of Islam in Detroit 1942-Guion S. Bluford, Jr., Ph.D. (Colonel, U.S. Air Force - Retired): First African-American in Space Biographical Information: Born: November 22, 1942, in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. Educational Background: Bachelor of science in aerospace engineering from Pennsylvania State University; master of science and doctorate of philosophy in aerospace engineering from Air Force Institute of Technology; master in business administration, University of Houston, Clear Lake. Missions Flown: Flew on STS-8, STS 61-A, STS-39, and STS-53. Mission Photos: STS-8, STS 61-A, STS-39, and STS-53. Present Occupation: Currently Vice President and General Manager, Engineering Services Division, NYMA Inc., Brook Park, Ohio. 1963-John Fitzgerald Kennedy (46), thirty-fifth president of the United States, assassinated in Dallas, Texas. 1986-George Branaham is the first black to ever win a Professional Bowlers Association (PBA)title. 9 1989-Col Frederick D. Gregory becomes the first African American to lead a space mission. November 23rd The Piano Lesson, a play by August Wilson, wins the Pulitzer Prize for drama 1867-Louisiana constitutional convention (forty-nine white delegates and forty-nine Black delegates) met in Mechanics Institute, New Orleans. 1897-On this day Andrew J. Beard, an African American inventor was awarded Patent # 594,059. Despite having no formal education in engineering or metalwork, Beard had invented an automtic railroad car coupling device called the Jenny Coupler. Prior to the Jenny Coupler train cars were joined together manually, causing thousands of railroad workers to lose their hands,arms, and even their lives. Born in Eastlake, Alabama, in 1850, Beard labored for years in railroad yards where he personally witnessed horrific accidents when workers tried to execute the rapid procedure of manually coupling train cars with a pin. Beard sold his lifesaving invention to a New York company for $50,000. 1897-JL Love puts patents on the pencil sharpener 1905-Henry Watson Furness, an Indiana physician, named minister of Haiti. He was the last Black minister to Haiti in this period. Woodrow Wilson appointed a white minister in 1913. 1905-Fifty-seven Blacks reported lynched in 1905. 1907-Alice Freeman Palmer Institute in Sedalia, North Carolina, founded by Charlotte Hawkins Brown, was renamed and incorporated as Palmer Memorial Institute. 1980-1000 people from twenty five states gather in Philadelphia and form the National Black Independent Party Channel 35 SUNDAYS 8 am Comcast Cable 80 Monday - Fridays 10 - 10:30 am (3&"54"7*/(43"5&4.03& 4&$63&5)"/&7&3#&'03& .03&4"'&5:4&$63*5:'%*$*/463"/$& /PXNPSFUIBOFWFSZPVOFFEBTFDVSFXBZUPTBWF"OE4PWFSFJHOIBTTPNFPGUIFBSFBµTCFTU SBUFTPOBOENPOUI$%T4FMFDUUIFUFSNUIBUCFTU¾UTZPVSOFFET0SZPVDBODIPPTFUIF ¿FYJCJMJUZPGBOZUJNFBDDFTTBOEBHSFBUSBUFPOPVSNPOFZNBSLFUTBWJOHTBDDPVOU "OEOPNBUUFSXIJDIPOFZPVDIPPTFZPVHFUUIFTBGFUZBOETFDVSJUZPGBOBDDPVOUUIBUµT OPX'%*$JOTVSFEGPSBUMFBTU(FUHSFBUFSQFBDFPGNJOEBOECFUUFSTFDVSJUZXIFO ZPVUSVTUZPVSNPOFZUP4PWFSFJHO 8FTFFBCSJHIUFSGVUVSFGPS4PWFSFJHO±POFXIFSFXFDBOPGGFSZPVFBTJFSNPSFDPOWFOJFOU CBOLJOHJOOPWBUJWFQSPEVDUTBOEBCBOLUIBUHJWFTZPVNPSFFWFSZEBZ .0/5)$% "1: .*/*.6.%&104*5 .0/5)$% "1: .*/*.6.%&104*5 .0/&:."3,&54"7*/(4 "1: .*/*.6. #"-"/$& Sovereign Bank and its logo are registered trademarks of Sovereign Bank or its affiliates or subsidiaries in the United States and other countries.*Minimum deposit of $500 and a maximum deposit of $499,999 to open a certificate of deposit (CD) and receive the annual percentage yields (APYs) shown above. A penalty will be imposed for early withdrawal from a CD. APYs effective as of 11/15/08 and may change thereafter for new accounts. Personal accounts only. **3.75% annual percentage yield (APY) is available when your balance is $75,000 and above; 3.00% APY is applied when your balance is $25,000-$74,999.99; 2.50% APY is applied when your balance is $10,000-$24,999.99; and 2.25% APY is applied when your balance is less than $10,000. APYs accurate as of 11/15/08 and may change thereafter and after your account is opened. Fees may reduce earnings. A minimum deposit of $10 is required to open a Personal Money Market Savings account. Personal accounts only. †Federal regulations require us to limit to 6 per statement period the number of certain transfers you may make from a money market savings account, including transfers by telephone or using online banking. See your Personal Deposit Account Agreement for details. ††The balances in deposit accounts held in the same ownership capacity are added together for FDIC insurance purposes. For example, all deposit accounts you own individually are added together. Additional coverage is available, however, for other ownership categories, such as for accounts you own jointly and for accounts you hold in trust for a beneficiary. $250,000 coverage available through 12/31/09. Please visit www.fdic.gov for details. 10 -SCOOP U.S.A. - Friday, November 21, 2008 Representative Payees can report Online SSA Manager patrick l. robinson, sr. People who serve as representative payees for individuals who receive Social Security or Supplemental Security Income (SSI) benefits now have more options for their annual reporting of how the funds are used. Representatives, who in the past had to complete a paper Representative Payee Reporting Form each year, can now report online using our secure website. A representative payee is someone who receives Social Security or SSI payments on behalf of a person who is not capable of managing the funds on their own. Representative payees must use the funds for the benefit of the person entitled to benefits. For example, a payee must use the funds to provide the beneficiary with food, clothing, and shelter. If you receive a representative payee accounting form to complete, you can take your form to your computer instead of into our office. Just log onto www.socialsecurity.gov/payee. If it's your first time using this service, you'll need to take a few minutes to register. Once you do, please keep your identification and password in a secure place. You can use it to submit reports in future years. When you're ready to complete the report online, you'll need to key in the unique code that appears on the paper form we mailed you. Then you'll be able to key in the information. Online features make completing the report easier than doing it on paper. Once you submit the report, you'll receive a confirmation number as proof that your report was received by Social Security. It's as easy as that - no paper to fill out by hand, no visits to make, and no envelopes to stuff. If you have questions about registering for this new service, give us a call at 1-800-775-7802. If you are an organizational payee, call 1-800-772-6270. For all other questions, use our regular toll-free number, 1-800-772-1213 (TTY 1-800-325-0778). While you're online, you may want to check out some of the other popular features on our website, www.socialsecurity.gov, such as frequently asked questions, the new online retirement estimator and other online services. You can even watch a brief video about the things you can do on our website. PFCU helps to keep People Warm for the Holidays Philadelphia Federal Credit Union is once again partnering with the Philadelphia Cares Organization this winter season in an effort to collect winter coats for those in need. Every year, thousands of men, women, and children in the Greater Philadelphia region live through the cold winter season without a coat to keep warm. Through the Philadelphia Cares’ Thirteenth Annual Winter Coat Drive, PFCU will help to provide this basic necessity. The event stands as a reminder that there are thousands of people whose only holiday wish is a warm coat for their children, parents, or themselves. PFCU will offer its branches as drop-off points for the coat drive. Members and area residents can do their part SCOOP’S RECOMMENDED BUSINESSES by dropping off new or “gently used” winter coats in designated bins at PFCU branches. PFCU hopes to surpass last year’s collection of coats by the conclusion of the drive on January 19. Year round, Greater Philadelphia Cares partners with Philadelphia-region non-profit agencies, schools, government agencies, and environmental organizations to make a positive impact in our city. To find out about Philadelphia Cares programs, visit www.philacares.com. Philadelphia Federal Credit Union was founded in 1951 and is currently among the top credit unions in the city, serving the entire Philadelphia and Bloomsburg, PA communities, in addition to the owners, employees and directors of over 400 organizations throughout Pennsylvania, New Jersey and Delaware. ',$%(7,&6 ,)<28+$9(0(',&$5(2535,9$7(,1685$1&( <280$<%((/,*,%/(725(&(,9(<285 ',$%(7,&6833/,(6$7/,77/(2512&267 TILLMAN’S BOUTIQUE THRIFT STORE :HDOVRFDUU\,PSRWHQFH$UWKULWLV6XSSOLHV Recorded Info 4942 N. Broad St. Phila. 215-455-3978 )25,1)250$7,21&$//($6<$&&(660(',&$/6833/< NEW & USED OPEN Monday - Saturday 10 am - 6 pm Morning, noon or night dancing or exercising. The Exercise Curls look good water proofing for all seasons. Get it at Donn’s Doo Shoppe. Curls $29.95 CareFree Wraps $15. Waves $12. New Press & Curls, Soft Waves, Hard Waves, Wet Set. We accept all Major Credit Cards, Money ZZZIRU\RXUKHDOWKPHGFRP&HUWDLQ5HVWULFWLRQV0D\$SSO\ I am on my Are and , what are my really willing to ? Philadelphia Hair Co. 5805 Germantown Avenue Philadelphia, PA 19144 (215) 842-0550 (15th & Susquehanna Ave) (215) 978-4060 WEAVE SPECIAL $50.00 BRING OWN HAIR TARA WEAVE, LONG LAYER, SHORT LAYER MOIK/HULD w/ TARA HAIR, PONY TAILS WRAPS $25.00 Special 2 LAYER BRAIDS $65.00 SPECIAL BRING OWN HAIR SEWING WEAVE - WALYAH, Stylist Bruce’s Barber Shop 4312 Lancaster Ave. 1356 W. Girard Ave. Phila. PA 19123 Open Tues. to Fri. 12 to 6 p.m. Sat. 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Haircuts $9.00 Children Under 12 yrs. $8.00 Hustlers $8.00 Call (215) 222-9912 Beautyrama 5406 Spruce St. 748-1906 Ms. Rachel Matthews Hairstylist AL-JAY Insurance Agency, Inc. WEST PHILA. OFFICE 5236 Walnut St. (215) 476-7590 “We Insure Your Need, Without the Greed” Henry Jackson General Manager q q q q q q Toll free 1-800-470-7562 GIRARD AVENUE CHECK CASHING MATTHEWS View SCOOP on the web www.scoopusanewspaper.com Absolutely no cost to you if qualified. New lift chairs starting at $699.00. Fastest Delivery Available Call Toll Free to Qualify * 763-0286 *763-0287 FAX 763-5958 LOTTERY 236-8281 Donn’s Doo Shoppe 2200 N. 15th St. Get your NEW POWER WHEELCHAIRS SCOOTERS and HOSPITAL BEDS q Learner’s Permits Complete Tag Service q Registration Renewals Driver’s Licenses q Business Fire and Theft q Notary Public Collision We will be happy to advise you about Home Motor Cycles the new auto insurance rules. Stop in! OFFICE HOURS: 10:00 A.M. TO 7:00 P.M. Daily ∞ 10:00 A.M. TO 3 P.M. Checks Cashed - Money Orders - Direct Deposit Utility Bills Paid - Septa Passes - Septa Tokens Photostat Copies - Money Access - Rapid Refunds Fax Service - Notary Public - Mail Boxes Money Gram OPEN: Mon. Tues. Wed. 8 am- 5 pm Thurs. & Fri. 8 am - 6 pm Sat. 8 am - 2 pm CARTER’S Beauty Salon 5346 Spruce St. Open Wed. to Sat. 9 am to 5 pm 215-472-9745 EDDIE’S BARBER SHOP 1900 Medary Avenue OGONTZ AND MEDARY (215) 276-1215 JOHN’S Beauty Salon 2526 W. Allegheny 215-225-9700 2719 W. Girard Avenue, Philadelphia, PA 19130 215-236-3400 - Fax 215-236-0920 Monday - Saturday - 10:30 am - 7 pm SCOOP USA - Friday, November 21, 2008 - 11 The Miracle of Fasting (Part 4)--Creating a Detoxifying Bath Col. Charles Young Post 682 159 E. Sharpnack St. Phila. 215-844-9894 1st Sunday Breakfast 8 am ‘til noon - $2.99 Monday Nite - Big Screen Night “All Sports” Wednesday Nite Happy Hour 7 to 9 pm Music by Joe Bones Every other Thursday - Line Dance 7:30 - 9:30 Friday Happy Hour 6 to 8 pm Saturday Happy Hour 5 to 7 pm Maurice B. Williams, Commander SHARON HILL BIG JIM’S SHARON BAR 820 Sharon Ave. Sharon Hill 610-534-8499 2nd Home of Sports Club Continental II Mother Chapter M.C. of Chester PA Come every Sunday for Oldies Football & Snacks - 3pm -12 midnight Now Thursday fr om 9p to 2 a D, J.. Sir Charles also, Smoking is Permitted at Big Jim’s DIXON’S LOUNGE 1401 Hook Road Sharon Hill, PA 610-461-2462 Jesse, Manager Jack and Jill went up the Hill and Jessie brought them down to the party Happy Thanksgiving MONDAY Night KARAOKE 6 pm until Midnite * Essential Oils - Choose three from the collection you should have -- each having its own mood altering properties through aromatherapy. Add about three drops of each. Popular ones include Tea tree, Peppermint, Lavender, Sandalwood, and Eucalyptus. Note: gender specific scents (no Geranium or Rose oil for men). * Natural Soap (unscented) - A small amount of soap will prevent the oils from coating you or the tub directly. Choose soap that does not contain fragrance or sodium laurel sulfate. Recipe for Detox Spa: Ingredients:* 1/3 cup Baking Soda * 1/4 cup Tartar * 1 Tbsp Cornstarch * 1/2 cup Sea Salt * 1/4 cup Powdered Green Clay * 1 Tbsp Blue green Algae * 1 Tbsp Vinegar * 1 Tbsp Liquid Soap * 9 drops of Essential oil (3 drops each of 3 types) Instructions: * Mix Baking Soda, Tartar and Cornstarch * Mix essential oils directly with sea salt. * Mix soap with chlorophyll, vinegar and clay powder. * Blend above mixture into final blend (it can be dried and reused later). * Use about 1 cup of combined mixture to bath. There is no better time for a great bath than during a fast. This article will explore the details of creating an affordable and revitalizing bath at home. Here’s to the best interest in your health. For more information: www.naturalnews.com Philadelphia Eagles’ Hank Baskett helps North Philadelphia children learn about Managing Asthma The Healthy Hoops® Program recently hosted a basketball clinic and asthma education event on November 11th at the North Philadelphia Salvation Army for a group of children with asthma and their families who are clients of Impact Services, a non-profit organization which has served Philadelphia’s neediest citizens since 1974. At the event, the children got a chance to meet Philadelphia Eagles’ wide receiver Hank Baskett, who kicked off the program by speaking about his experience managing his asthma while playing sports.** Baskett reassured the children that they can still be Martha Rodriguez and her children Aurelia and Jose Alicea, of North active and play sports Philadelphia, attended a recent Healthy Hoops event and got a chance even though they have to meet Philadelphia Eagles player Hank Baskett, while learning about asthma, and spoke to them how to better manage asthma. Healthy Hoops is a program of about the ways they can keep their bodies healthy Keystone Mercy Health Plan. in order to do that. He families in the Philadelphia area since 2003. Healthy also urged parents to ensure that their children use preHoops is presented by Keystone Mercy Health Plan in ventive medications on a regular basis to keep their collaboration with the Healthy Hoops Coalition, made asthma under control, and encouraged them to monitor up of local health organizations and basketball coaches, their children’s physical activity without being too quick and is supported by AstraZeneca. Asthma affects about to make them st 9 million children, causing nearly 4 million asthma op playing, which prevents them from developing attacks and more than 641,000 emergency room visits their fitness level and improving their lung capacity. each year.* The problem is especially severe for chilHealthy Hoops is an innovative asthma management dren living in poverty. About Keystone Mercy Health program that uses basketball as a platform to teach chilPlan:Keystone Mercy Health Plan, a member of the dren with asthma and their families how to proactively AmeriHealth Mercy Family of Companies, is a Medical manage the disease through proper nutrition, exercise, Assistance (Medicaid) managed care health plan serving and medication use. Tuesday’s event included health more than 300,000 Medical Assistance recipients in assessments for participating children, asthma education southeastern Pennsylvania. Headquarte red in for the parents provided by the American Lung Philadelphia, Keystone Mercy Health Plan is a missionAssociation, and basketball coaching sessions for the driven company dedicated to helping members get care, children from Philadelphia basketball legends Jimmie stay well, and build healthy communities. Its corporate Baker, Bill Fox, Brian Daly, and Speedy Morris. parent partners are Mercy Health System and Keystone Healthy Hoops was developed in response to the growFirst, a subsidiary of Independence Blue Cross. For ing problem of asthma among children, and has been more information about Keystone Mercy Health Plan, serving disadvantaged children with asthma and their Counseling Corner claudelle evans-green In Part 1 of the series Bentonite was discussed as an internal cleansing product. In a bath it is used for its external cleansing properties, similar to a mud bath. For that reason it is not necessary to have the same grade of quality. Bentonite clay (available in two forms called sodium bentonite and calcium bentonite) is a form of volcanic ash that is a natural adsorbent and which has the remarkable ability to physically remove 25 times its weight in impurities from the body, including mercury, viruses and pesticide residues. Bentonite contains high levels of Iron, Magnesium and Silicon. Clay has soothing properties for the skin and provides essential trace minerals. * Bentonite Clay - Aluminium Phyllosilicate (Montmorillonite) * Blue Green Algae - Anabaena sphaerica (Cyanophata) In Part 2 of the series we discussed the internal cleansing properties of green drinks. Blue Green Algae also has external uses as the bacteria offers powerful cleansing properties. Also known as Cyanobacteria, Blue green algae contains chlorophyll, a deep green antioxidant that is an important addition to your fasting products. “Bad” bacteria such as fecal coliforms simply cannot coexist in the presence of chlorophyll. It is this algae that naturally keeps fresh water ponds (and baths) clean and clear. Can a Healthier Attitude Mean a Healthier Child? We all want our children to be as healthy as possible, but we also realize minor infections and illnesses are inevitable. Any child of school age is constantly exposed to lots of viruses and germs. There are, of course, things we can do to help our children avoid some of those cold and flu bugs. Teaching preventative hygiene, like frequent hand washing and not sharing mouthtouched drinks and foods with friends, can certainly help. Preventative medicine, like flu shots, is also important. A healthy diet and plenty of rest will also play big roles. Our bodies are usually great at fighting off the bacteria and viruses we encounter daily, but poor nutrition and lack of rest can rob them of the strength to combat those illness-causing bugs. Another action to lessen the likelihood of illness is to help your child reduce his or her stress. Research has found that stress weakens the immune system, yet even very young children encounter school and friend situations that raise stress levels. Most of the time, parents don’t need to fix the stressinducing problem for their children, but rather just need to be a sympathetic and understanding audience. Really listening to your child’s concerns can reduce feelings of anxiety and stress. If your child does fall ill, helping him or her have a more positive attitude can lead to a quicker return to good health. Simply smiling, for example, can make a big difference. A parent of a sick child often will look worried and concerned as they talk to that child, which helps convince the child that he or she should also feel worried and concerned. A big smile, instead, helps relieve tension and anxiety, and creates an attitude of wellness rather than sickness. You also want to use positive phrases with your child. Instead of repeatedly asking what hurts or what’s wrong, try asking what’s feeling better or what’s good. The simple acts of touching and hugging can also be great medicine. Studies have found that touching and bonding literally help strengthen the immune system. Holding an ill child while watching TV or reading a book together can mean getting better faster. Viruses and bacteria are always going to be out there. But healthy eating, plenty of rest and loving parents who are there to help a child have a \positive, less-stressful attitude can do a great deal to keep those bugs at a distance. “The Counseling Corner” is provided as a public service by the American Counseling Association, the nation’s largest organization of counseling professionals. Learn more about the counseling profession at the ACA web site, www.counseling.org. 12 - SCOOP U.S.A. - Friday, November 21, 2008 PUNCHEY’S SEAFOOD 258 South 52nd St. (215) 747-9948 FRESH from the SEA to the FRYING PAN!! OCEAN BEVERAGE 4142 LANCASTER AVE. Service with Smile for BAR & HOME PICK-UP & DELIVERY 222-3332 COLD BEER and SODAS IKE 215-438-6793 Meek Beauty Salon Helping H.I.V. Aids, and City Stuff Toby Rich ENJOY GOOD EAT- This week's rap from the Mayor of Girard Avenue, Toby Rich, is called Meek Beauty Salon Helping H.I.V. Aids, and City Stuff." A Meek Beauty Salon is the salon where my daughter Dior D. Rich, her partner Myisha, and a very wonderful staff of concerned people work, and is located at 15th Street and Passyunk Avenue. I would like to give them the SCOOP USA shout out award for doing hair and donating the money they received to Aids research. This is very important because, it's one thing to get money for research from big money entertainers, but when someone gives their hard earned money profits, after standing on their feet for many hours, sweating from the heat of hot combs and hair dryers, and breathing hair chemicals all day, that's really saying something. I'm very proud of my daughter, her partner, her staff and friends who came to support the event. They even let me entertain them, and I know I can get on my daughter's nerves while playing with her. I still at times can't let go of the fact that she's not my little girl anymore, but a grown woman that I have grown to respect and honor and I'm very proud of her peace. Speaking of peace on November 11, 2008, Veteran's Day, our Mayor M.A. Nuter, Govenor Ed Rendell, State Rep. Patrick Murphy, Congressman Pat Dugan, Congresswoman Allyson Schwartz, District Attorney Lynn Abraham, Lawyer Joe Waters, City Councilman William Greenlee and others came together to honor veterans. So many great things were said about the veterans and the sacrifices they made for our country. No one should ever mistreat a Vet because that's just not fair. We need to show Vets love big time. While I was at the event I had a chance to talk to State Representative Dwight Evans about running for Governor because I feel that he knows enough about Harrisburg that he would make an excellent Governor. Now he's not trying to entertain running, because of what he went through trying to run for mayor, but in my opinion city politics are different from state politics. Dwight knows Harrisburg well so he could do the Governor thing after Big Ed Rendell leaves office. The Asian community came to City Hall to complain about the proposed casino coming to the Gallery Mall. In my opinion Chinatown is not Market Street, near 11th, 10th, 9th or 8th. It may be blocks away and it's not theirs. I know that they wish to expand Chinatown, but other folks need jobs. Chinatown makes a good living off of money from other minorities especially African Americans just based on how many Asian take-out restaurants are in the black community, and you do not see any black owned stores in Chinatown. So why would they get in the way of people obtaining construction jobs etc., as a result of a casino being built at that location. What if we boycotted every Asian store in the black community? They would right away say it's not fair, but how is it okay to make sure your folks make a good living, but you totally forget about mine. On a t.v. note, this past Monday all local broadcasters ran a test to determine what televisions could receive the digital signals that will be sent out permanently after February 2009. If you failed this test and receive absolutely no signal, you have three choices to help rectify the situation. You can get a cable box or satellite dish, buy a new tv with a digital tuner, or get a digital box by getting the $40 coupon that you can receive by mail which looks like an ATM card is then taken to your local retail store where you can buy the converter. The boxes generally cost $50 or $60 dollars. . With love, honor and respect, from your Mayor of Girard Avenue, Toby Rich. Peace The Rib Crib Citizens Bank donates bank employee to 5333 Germantown Ave. Phila. We are back and Cooking Thursday, Friday and Saturdays Note New Hours - 11 am to 11 pm W E N EVER S TOP W ORKING F OR Y OU view SCOOP on the web www.scoopusanewspaper.com CAMDEN , N .J. NELLIE’S BEAUTYRAMA 4913 WESTFIELD AVE., PENNSAUKEN, NJ (856) 663-9400 Shampoo, press & curl, perms, waves, ponytails & more. Closed Mon. Open Tues. - Fri. 9 -5 Sat. 9 - 4 Sunday 12 noon - 6 pm Call for Appointment CDS * TAPES * MOVIES * KANGOL HATS Marlton Records & Electronics 286 Marlton Avenue Camden, N.J. 08105 (856) 541-1818 . Rap & Reggae Music . Gifts and Novelties As little as this space brings big $$$$$$$$ r esults to your business UPtown Barber Shop 801 Fairview St. Camden, N.J. TOM at your service (856) 576- 0914For the Natural, Suave work at The Career Wardrobe Citizens Bank announced that Ernestine Bustion, assistant branch manager at its Whitman Park office in South Philadelphia, is the 2008 winner of the Citizens Bank Community Service Sabbatical Program, and is working full time at The Career Wardrobe, a Philadelphia nonprofit that helps thousands of women transition from welfare to work. Under the Citizens Bank Community Service Sabbatical program, Bustion began work at The Career Wardrobe on November 3 and will continue a full-time schedule with the agency through January 30, 2009. She is assisting women entering the workforce by helping them to select professional clothing appropriate for job interviews and/or employment. “A person’s outward appearance has a huge effect on how they are perceived in a professional environment as well as how that person feels about themselves,” says Bustion. “I am already seeing how my business background is helping me to offer practical advice and counsel to Career Wardrobe clients.” Bustion, who lives in Yeadon, Delaware County, will also help with educational events designed to provide career-skills training and peer-networking opportunities for low-income women entering the workforce. “The Citizens Bank Community Service Sabbatical is a signature program that clearly illustrates our commitment to be involved in our community at the grassroots level,” said Daniel K. Fitzpatrick, Citizens Bank President and CEO for Eastern Pennsylvania, New Jersey and Delaware. “We awarded the sabbatical to Ernestine because she will give her energy, knowledge and most importantly, her heart to the women whose lives are changed by The Career Wardrobe's significant track record of success in helping women to achieve self-sufficiency.” The Career Wardrobe was created in 1995 by a group of working women to address the marketability of economically disadvantaged women in southeastern Pennsylvania who were striving to achieve economic self-sufficiency for themselves and their families. Working in partnership with over 100 job training programs, domestic violence shelters and other social service agencies throughout the Delaware Valley, The Career Wardrobe provides free interview-appropriate clothing and support services to women who are transitioning from welfare to work or beginning a life free from domestic violence. The Career Wardrobe serves women from throughout the Delaware Valley. The Citizens Bank Community Service Sabbatical program is open to all full-time Citizens employees who have three or more years of service at Citizens. Each year a three-month sabbatical is offered, on a competitive basis, to employees in the Philadelphia area. The selected employee works a standard full-time schedule at a community service agency and is supervised by agency personnel. Upon returning to Citizens, the sabbatical recipi- Ernestine Bustion ent is asked to share his/her experiences with their bank colleagues. Employees selected for the program are guaranteed their same salary and level of responsibility upon completion of the sabbatical. “To have a new, full-time volunteer from the business community for three months is tremendous,” said Sheri K. Cole, Executive Director of The Career Wardrobe. “Ernestine has wonderful rapport with our clients, which helps to boost their confidence in acquiring the professional clothing and skills necessary to getting and keeping a job.” Bustion is actively involved in her community. She has served as the fundraising director for the Ida Thomas Foundation for four years, and served as captain of the Citizens Bank team participating in the Delaware County American Cancer Society Relay for Life. W E N EVER S T OP ! W ORKING F OR Y OU ! view SCOOP on the web www.scoopusanewspaper.com SCOOP U.S.A. - Friday, November 21, 2008 - 13 van stone It’s Thanksgiving Rep. Vanessa Brown & Others; James Sullivan Joins Boycott Philadelphia – It’s official. Now that people of diverse races in both Philadelphia and nearby Delaware counties have celebrated their own President Elect Barack Obama to the White House we need to take a look at what is happening and has happened in local elections. But first let's make somevspfoundation@yahoo.com thing clear to all the non-voters in Philly and Delaware (215) 747-8746 County. This is a time when approximately, 61% white folks, 57% Latino folks, and nearly 30% black folks are voters who can claim that they are actually co-owners of the first black president of the United States of America in the White House due process. And this is extremely important to them because now they can truthfully understand what it means for anyone to covet what they own in politics. Neighbors, political parties, and even certain religions are jealous of what these voters for President-elect Obama have. So, it just might be a long time coming before voters for Obama would be able to celebrate a day of giving thanks for the Obamas. Sad to say, givers somehow end up stomped on. Teacher Continued from page 4 tracted depression was due to the policies of the Federal Reserve Bank, the contraction of the money supply and withholding of credit. The Fed policies prevented business from expanding even though the necessary raw materials, technology and labor were readily available. What was lacking was available capital from the banks. In a capitalist system lack of capital is the death knell. Unlike the ‘30's depression, when factories were shut down because of a lack of available capital and credit, today’s situation is exacerbated by a lack of manufacturing altogether. The United States is no longer an industrial leader or a manufacturing giant. US Manufacturing is going the way of the dinosaur. If the Detroit auto industry goes belly up, and even with a government bailout the prospects are very likely, it’s all over. Even with US government bailout of General Motors, Ford and Chrysler if there are no jobs or money (credit) available for people to buy these manufacturer’s cars there is no business. Industrial mobilization for WWII got the US out of the depression. Factories were running to build the needed trucks tanks and airplanes to wage the war. Men were drafted or volunteered to go into the military and many women worked in the factories. The US government and Hollywood promoted the purchase of US Bonds and personal savings. War profiteering, the devastation of the allies and the destruction and defeat of the Axis powers left the US all alone on the top of the hill once the war was over. The US economy had been revived and things were so good the US was able to lend money, technology and materials to its allies and its former enemies. But today, the US is a crumbling debtor nation. The US government is insolvent. Personal savings are at negative levels and indebtedness is at an all time high. Most of us have no significant savings. Much of the so called prosperity we have “experienced” since 2001 was debt based. The media and government encouraged irresponsible spending and consumerism. Our liabilities are greater than our assets; especially as home prices are falling precipitously. Our “wealth” is a shallow illusion that is unraveling as we speak. Every day the economic news worsens. What can we do? We don’t control the stock market, the banks or the government? Nevertheless, we are not helpless or hopeless. We can become more resourceful and self-reliant. We have to get back to basics: trusting one another, helping each other, coming together as a community. We can barter services and talents amongst ourselves. We can learn to grow our own food using non-genetically altered seeds and foods in urban community gardens, in our back yards and on farms. We can form savings and investment clubs to capitalize businesses in our community. Most importantly we must support our own. We are in for some rough times but don’t despair. We are a resilient and resourceful people. Our ancestors experienced and endured a whole lot worse. How we transcend the crisis is limited only by our imagination and our willingness to come together to thrive amidst negativity and adversity. We have a long history of doing this in this country. SCOOP in print and on the web Get 2 for the price of 1 www.scoopusanewspaper.com However, there are so many people who are the recipients of votes given to them during the past historic United States 2008 Presidential Election that they alone are able to be the local political reenactment of what became Thanksgiving. And we all know what Thanksgiving was originally about. Thanksgiving was about a group of independents giving thanks for getting something for nothing and then planning their way of life as never proposing to give anything in return for the hard efforts of others except for saying thanks. So, again today the people that I am talking about who easily reenact the Thanksgiving takers are our local elected Democratic and Republican politicians, newly and reelected, who gained Pennsylvania House of Representative Honorable State Rep. seats; our Legislators. I am especially speaking about Democratic State Reps. who are Members of the House 2008 serving Philadelphia County (Part). Now that they’ve won, running as a Democrat during the Obama v. McCain presidential election, winning means that nothing is expected of them. And you better believe they know it! Here’s why. Take newly elected State Rep. Vanessa Brown for example. Rep. Brown won in a Democratic dominated demographic area. She will be seated to serve a very small but largely diverse population of about say 30,000. Rep. Brown’s challenger got only 300 or so votes. In a high and emotional voter turn out, but having absolutely nothing to do with her, Rep. Brown got a whopping 97% of the vote. Facts are that Rep. Brown could not possibly have known personally or otherwise, over 25,000 people in her West Philly neighborhood. It’s just not possible for thousands of people to come out and have personally voted for Brown because from what most of her neighbors understand she is not a native Philadelphian. Yes, voting is and can be personal. In other words, the ways to successfully get to know that many people by name, address, and phone number in a particular community is to be either a traveling minister serving in a district, or a person who is attending at least 6 mega churches of 5,000 members each. Or be a close relation of a popular person who is known for giving whatever they have to families during good times and tough times. Other State Reps who received and expected nothing more in return but thanks was Rep Jim Roebuck. Roebuck got triple digit thousand votes and had no challenger at all. Legislator is an occupation. Can voters stop giving to them? Speaking of giving to someone and expecting something in return: When you give your time to support a boycott of a newspaper that discriminates, you should take pointers from someone with experience in these matters. That someone with experience in protesting bias is none other than James Sullivan, West Philly activist since 1958. James Sullivan has joined Darryl T. Nutter Sr. and my boycott of Delco Daily Times because he says that the Delco Daily Times has not properly reported on the record inmate count in Delaware County Prison by the hands of certain Media Courthouse Common Pleas judges. Sullivan says that Delaware County prison totals outspace Bucks County, costing the city of Philadelphia millions a year. Thousands of low-income dads who had custody have been put behind bars by judges who recuse themselves once the victims make complaints. (Darryl T. Nutter Sr. contributed to this article.) rev. dr. wm. rocky brown, 3rd 14 - SCOOP U.S.A. - Friday, November 21, 2008 God Knows All About It When a person runs for public office it seems as if the media gets busy and tries to destroy him or her in the eyes of the public. They look for every speck of wrong doing and they make people who are basically decent folk to look like hoodlums. If they have been seen talking to someone whose character was questionable they are charged with “Guilt by Association”. Their searching is done for the sole purpose of destroying the person who is running for an office or who has been appointed to hold a certain position. No matter how much good the person might have done, it is seldom mentioned. But when God searches our hearts and writes our deeds in His eternal record book, He puts down the good as well as the bad. And it is just nice to know that God under- Chester, PA AMERICAN LEGION Charles Horsey Post 300 1101 W. 7th Street Chester, 610-872-2751 Enjoy all the games on our Up Front TV screens Members must have membership with them all the time to drink. Everyone must be 30 years old CLOSED MONDAYS OPEN: TUES., Wed. 3 to 10 pm Thurs 12 to 12; Friday 12 pm to 12 am- Sat. 10 am to 12 am -Sun. 8 am to 12 am SPORTY’S stands us. Every preacher and pastor must have this assurance if they want to successfully lead God’s people. There are so many times when we have to go against the grain and take a stand for unpopular causes that we just have to know that God understands. This is what keeps us standing tall and not giving into pressure. What we do may not seem logical to anybody else on earth but as long as God understands then we know that we are doing the right thing and that we are in good hands. No matter what people think and say as long as you know that you are doing the will of God and the He knows and understands you, then you can still fight on. Regardless of what folk say or do you can still fight on because God is the one you have to answer to and God is the one who is going to pay off in the end. He is the one you should be trying to please. And it’s good to know that no matter what people are saying or how many lies they are telling, God knows the truth. He knows the truth about everything we do and say. You don’t have to call a news conference every time you try to say a word of encouragement to somebody who is depressed because God knows. You don’t have to ring a bell every time you try to lift somebody who has fallen by the way because God knows! You don’t have to sound a trumpet every time you feed somebody who is hungry because God knows! Yes, every time you tell a sinner that Jesus Christ died for their sins, God puts it down on His record book. Every time you encourage a wandering boy or girl to go back to school or home, God knows about it. Every time you bring a little sunshine to the life of someone whose life is overshadowed by darkness, God knows about it. Every time you open a door for someone who has had many doors shut in their face, God knows about it. Beloved, do not worry about getting your proper recognition. Just remember God knows. Yes, the same God who searches your heart and knows all your faults is the same God who searches your heart and understands all your motives. And I want you to know that you don’t even have to tell God when your burdens get heavy for He already knows just how much you can bear. Roberta Martin was right when she wrote: “Tho’ the load gets heavy, you’re never WESTEND COCKTAIL LOUNGE 2701 W. 3rd St. Chester - 610-497-9037 Monday Night Football is here This is Rev. Dr. Wm Rocky Brown, 3rd asking you to: PLEASE JOIN TODAY, TO CHANGE TOMORROW!!!!! That’s right, it’s all here, at People’s Choice PEOPLE’S CHOICE 531 Avenue of the States Chester, PA 610-872-0789 All Styles & Fashions CLOTHING & FOOTWEAR Barber Shop & Salon - Help Wanted PEOPLES “CHAMP” CLOTHING STORE 4 East 21st Street. Chester PA 610-499-3023 610-202-0316 DENISE & SMILEY’S SEAFOOD 723 W. 10th Street - Chester, PA 610-447-0275 SMILEY’S City Grill KITCHEN OPEN -12 noon to 8 pm Tues. Wed. Thur. Fri. Sat. Sun. TUESDAY TUESDAY Nite is MEN’S Nite 6 pm at RICO’ s - SPORTY’ SPORTY’ s & BENNY’S A Night honoring our Ladies - LADIES NITE every Wed. 7 pm until at Sporty’s Roger’s RAINBOW INN 6th & Kerlin Sts. Chester, PA left alone to bear it all. Ask for the strength and keep on toiling, tho’ the tear drops fall. You have the joy of this assurance, the Heavenly Father will always answer prayer and He knows, yes He knows just how much you can bear!” (610) 874 - 1777 SATURDAYS - FREE CRABS w/ Drinks HAPPY HOUR -MON. WED, FRI. 5 to 7 pm THURSDAYS -Oldies/Goodies by DJ Bang - 9 pm SATURDAYS -HIP, HOP w/ DJ Bang - 9 pm until WELCOME to the NEW TUESDAY Participating bars are 501 Bar, Metro Lounge, Roger’s Rainbow, Morianni’s Bar & Hotel OPEN Mon, Tues, Wed 2 pm until Thurs, Fri, Sat, 12 pm until Sunday, 2 pm until HAPPY HOURS Wed. & Sat. 6 pm - 12 am Tuesday Buy 1 Get 1 501Bar 501 E. 7th St. Chester, PA 610- 874-8321 We’ve Got the VICTORY PARTY FRIDAY, NOV. 21 - 12 noon until 10 pm Wear your red, white & blue Food, Fun & Music Hey, Hey ...It’s that time of the year again JACK PITMAN BIG FOUNDER’S DAY SATURDAY, DEC. 13 -- 2 pm until ... 8 West 9th Street Chester, PA (610) 874 - 8454 KITCHEN Open Daily 6 pm to 1:30 am B3rd& E’s Tavern & Highland 610 497-5257 Wings - Fingers & Things - Seafood: Shrimp - Flounder - Tilapia- Crab Legs & more KITCHEN CLOSED SUNDAY SPECIAL Large “U” peel SHRIMP $8.00 dozen Come Join Us for Some Big Fun Mondays - Happy Hour 9 pm to 11pm 610-876-5448 700 W. 2nd Street, Chester, PA Corner of Rt. 291 & Kerlin Street EVERYONE MUST HAVE ID WHEN ENTERING BAR You must have I.D. Ginn’s Bar & Staff send our Deepest sympathy to DJ. Mel’s family We will keep you in our prayers MONDAY - Blue Monday 2 to 8 pm Men’s Nite Out 8 until THURSDAY Happy Hour 6 to 8 featuring Yuengling BENNIE’S TAVERN G I N N’ Restaurant S & Bar Let The Good Times Roll Wednesday & Friday Nites 9 pm until 2 am D J ACE Come dance, drink, sing, have fun Happy Thanksgiving Times are bad, economy is down We know and we care so for the Next 2 months we are doing Something special for our customers Monday’s --After weekend broke Happy day Tuesday Nite’s --Only got a couple dollars where can I go Nite? Wednesday Nights--Karaoke Soon Thursday Nights 2 + 1 Nite Big BIRTHDAY BASH Ginn’s Star Maid BEBE SATURDAY Nov. 22 -- 9 pm til 2 am Big BIRTHDAY BASH Ginn’s Security Man & Friend STEVE & KIM SUNDAY Nov. 23 -- 3 pm till 9 pm Big BIRTHDAY PARTY “EDDIE” SATURDAY, NOV. 29 CELEBRATION OF LIFE for ERIC PETTIFORD SATURDAY, DEC. 13 - 9 pm till 2 am House DJ Dr. Boogie & Crew Bob’s Chicken & Ribs House Sold in our kitchen SCOOP U.S.A. - Friday, November 21, 2008 - 15 Greener Living and Art Appreciation: An Inspired Combination at Crozer Library Chester Community Charter School, headed by CEO Steven Lee (left), presented 700 of the school’s parents with $10 gift certificates in time for the Thanksgiving holiday. The certificates, redeemable at Sam & Sam meats, a local business in Chester Township, can be used toward the purchase of a Thanksgiving turkey or other holiday foods. Pictured with Lee are David Clark, Executive Director of Student Services (right) and Shirley Frazier, a Chester parent. Melissa Myers, a Chester Community Charter School parent stops to smile for cameras with her children, Renee and Richard Hughes, after receiving a $10 gift certificate from the school’s CEO, Steven Lee (second from right) to assist with Thanksgiving food shopping. MADISON GRILL 301 E. 12th Street Chester, PA 610-874-7662 Open 7 am Mon.- Sat. / Sunday 11am SMOKING PERMITTED HAPPY HOUR MONDAY & THURSDAY 5 pm to 7 pm Special Discounts Chester, PA CLUB ICCR’S M O R I A N N I ’ S 327 Highland Ave. Chester, PA (Corner of 4th & Highland) *EVERY FRIDAY* - Bike Night & Grown Folk Night -Complimentary Food - Grown Folk Music (Oldies, Blues, & R&B) - 2 Floors of Absolute Elegance *EVERY SATURDAY* - Stress Free Saturday (Just Let GO!) - Party Music(R&B and POP) - 2 Floors of Absolute Elegance Calendar of Events (Come Party With us:) NOVEMBER 28th – Chester High Class of 1978 After Party Open Friday & Saturday 6:30pm to 2:00am Call For Rental Information: 484-888-0788 Owned & Operated By: Independent Cee Cee Riders The Original -- Bar-Hotel-Sandwich Shop 301 W. 3rd St. (3rd & Concord Ave.} Chester, PA 610-872-6026 Oldies but Goodies Sunday 6 to 9 pm Surprise Quest D J Check out our NEW TUESDAY HAPPY HOUR starting Nov. 25 -- 4 to 6 pm plus our Food and Drink Specials SUNDAY & MONDAY NIGHT FOOTBALL Relax & Enjoy - Good Times - Good Food - Good Friends FRIDAY & SATURDAY 7 am until 2 am I-95 & Concord Rd W. Chester, PA -(610) 485-3143 FRIDAY HAPPY HOURS 6 to 8 pm DISCO 9 to 2 FRIDAY, BIRTHDAY PARTY for J’vette Payne - 9 pm - 2 SATURDAY, BIRTHDAY PARTY for ADIA GAME TIME is PARTY TIME Watch your team win or lose 5 th Street Bar 302 W. 5th St.Chester, PA Let The Good Times Roll Men On The Road TURKEY DRAWING Saturday, Nov. 22 3 pm until... A Special guest DJ Fri. & Sat. B O O T S & B O NN E T S THURSDAY NITE - KARAOKE 9 to 2 Host JJ Productions Start the last month of the year by learning how to be more environmentally conscious and enjoy some artwork while you’re at it! The J. Lewis Crozer Library is the place to be on Saturday, December 6th. On Saturday, December 6th from 11:00a.m. to 12 noon, the Pennsylvania Resources Council will present a Greener Lifestyles program. Learn how to be more earth friendly while also saving money this holiday season. Green shopping, non-toxic cleaning, saving energy, reducing waste, and conserving water are just some of the topics to be explored while learning how to reduce, reuse, and recycle. Crozer library is proud to host an exhibit of artwork by students at the new Smedley Allied Health High School who attend Mrs. Michelle Harrison’s art classes. Community members are invited to celebrate the artists’ work at a reception on Saturday, December 6th from 1:00-3:00p.m. Light refreshments will be served. The students’ original artwork will be on display from December 6th through December 18th, 2008 at the library. Crozer Library is located at 620 Engle Street in Chester. Please call 610-494-3454 to register for these free programs. - 9 pm to 2 am W E N EVER S TOP W ORKING F OR Y OU view SCOOP on the web www. SUNDAY DISCO - 9 pm until 2 am scoopusanewspper.com SPORTS FANS come and enjoy your favorite team on our large TV screens with food and drinks as you watch the games Your ad in SCOOP USA is on the webb FREE Book your next party here Call 610-485-3143 for more information DOGGIE HUT OPEN DAILY-featuring Breakfast, Ribs, Crabs, Chicken, Hamburgers, Fish, Sandwiches, Sodas & much more KITCHEN OPEN Wednesday 1 pm to 9 pm: Thursday - Sunday 1 pm to 2 You can’t give radio listeners or TV viewers a map to your business. You can reach more people with a newspaper ad. POWER of the PRESS Call 215-232-5974 see us on line scoopusanewspaper.com K NOW Y OUR H IST ORY If you don’t know where you have been, you won’t know, where to go... SCOOP on the web Your ad - 2 for 1 price in print & on the web www.scoopusanewspaper.com 16 - SCOOP U.S.A. - Friday, November 21, 2008 SCOOP USA COMMUNITY BULLETIN BOARD Jessie’s Herb Center & Herbs Massage Salon 4 Better Health Monthly Health Seminars 1537 South Street Phila., PA 19146 (215) 735-0458 LEGAL NOTICE Latest Fashions Independent Distributor NSP Welcome, Our 20th Anniversary Mystic/Prophecy Expo: SATURDAY – NOVEMBER 22 International House 3701 Chestnut St. Philadelphia, Pa. 11:00 am to 8:00 pm Auras, Massage Therapists, Reflexologies, Tarot, Palmistry Exhibitor and other info (215) 244-1727 Cell (267-808 5536) ; E-mail - fornoil@aol.com or urim50@aol.com For the general public fees for entrance $3.00 for one two (2 ) for $5.00 Show 11:00 am - 8:00 pm- Setup time 8:00 am Price $125.00 per space: Readers take $15.00 OFF Make money order to: HIGHER GROUND TRUTH CENTER PO Box 1325 Bensalem, PA. 19020 Exhibit spaces are available for showcasing a wide and unique variety of products, services and information. Name __________________________ Company Name___________________ Address___________________________ City ________________ PA_____ZIP___ e-mail___________________________ Product___ _______________________ GAMES PEOPLE PLAY DATE DAY PA NJ DELAWARE Wednesday Nov. 12 173 709 142 480 787 028 044 Thursday Nov. 13 245 442 476 568 453 537 734 Friday Nov. 14 075 610 116 687 700 991 154 Saturday Nov. 15 Sunday Nov. 16 480 970 394 122 265 183 502 Monday Nov. 17 150 210 329 879 396 765 590 Tuesday Nov. 18 103 455 892 372 125 812 656 930 136 xxx 535 116 160 Bold Red face indicates Hits picked by SCOOP U.S.A SCOOP PICK HITS 305 311 Appears Every Friday 871 239 947 222 Take notice that on March 27, 2008, a judgement was obtained by Paula Jackson against Phillip Walker in the amount of $944.00 plus costs for a total of $1,253.60. To date, the Judgement against Mr. Walker, who lives in Lansdowne, PA, has not been satisfied. MERCY HOSPITAL OFFERS FREE PROSTATE EXAMS West Philadelphia Mercy Philadelphia Hospital will offer free prostate exams and free PSAblood tests to all men age 40 and older on Wednesday, December 3, 2008 from 5 p.m. to 8 p.m. at Mercy Philadelphia Hospital. Appointments must be made in advance by calling 215-748-9700 or 215-748-9600. ************ A NNUAL C HILDREN ’ S C HRISTMAS D INNER PARTY The Philadelphia Martin Luther King, Jr. Association for Nonviolence, Inc. will hold its 5th Annual Children’s Christmas Dinner Party for disadvantaged children on Sunday, December 14, 2008. We need your help! Here is how: Drop off locations for toys and food goods. If you or someone you know can assist, please let us know. 150 turkeys and 50 hams are needed. Volunteers needed the day of the event. Christmas decorations and stockings. Toys and other donations. Materials for costumes. Please call 215-751-9300 if you would like to help. ************a “S S ECRETS ON S OUTH 60 TH S TREET ” “Secrets on South 60th Street”, a “Chosen Vessell Production will be held on Friday December 12, at 7:30 p.m. and Saturday, December 13, at 7:00 p.m. at Stagecrafters Theater, 8130 Germantown Ave. Tickets $10 in advance ($15 at the door. For tickets call 215-381-0350. ************ C RIME I N O UR C OMMUNITY The Commanding Officer of the 23rd PoliceDistrict is concerned about the crime in our community. Learn how to become the eyes and ears to report crimes anonymously and to make your community safer. Let us hear from you. A community meeting will be held on Tuesday, November 25th at 6:00 p.m. at the Athletic Recreation Center, 26th & Masters Sts. For more information contact P/O Dixon, Community Affairs Officer at 215-685-2705. ************ S TROKE V OLUNTEERS N EEDED The American Heart/American Stroke Association (AHA/ASA) still seeks volunteers to become “voices of power” through its stroke prevention program. Each year 700,000 Americans -- all ages, genders and ethnic group -- have a stroke; that is roughly one person per 45 seconds. To reduce risk factors and lower the number of strokes locally, a year-round campaign has been launched by the American heart Association of Southeastern PA educating those at highest risk on how to reduce or eliminate a stroke. Volunteers are essential in carrying the prevention message and implementing the program geared towards stroke avoidance. To become a Power Ambassador or to get information on volunteering opportunities, please call the American Heart/American Stroke Association at (610) 234-2457. ********** B E A PART O F M AKING A D IFFERENCE Eastside Neighborhood Connection is an afterschool program in the city of Chester that is looking for mentors and tutors to offer academic support by helping students complete homework assignments and foster their Down Memory Lane growth and learning. The Foster Grandparent Program enrolls individuals 60 or older who have a desire to help children succeed. Benefits include a tax-free stipend up to $400.00 a month, free transportation, holidays, paid vacation, sick, personal days and knowing that you have helped a child succeed. If you would like to participate in the program and become a mentor or tutor call 610-490-1498. ********** TUTORING The City of Philadelphia’s Recreation Department, Martin Luther King Recreation Center, located at 22nd and Cecil B. Moore Avenue, 19121, is looking for dedicated and hard-working candidates to provide after school tutoring for high school students on Tuesdays and Thursdays from 5-7p.m. weekly. All interested candidates should contact Wanda Darden at 215 6852733 to inquire and set up an interview. Tutors will be paid $10 per hour for their time and contribution. ********** Rev. Jean Houghton Listen with your heart and be ready for the change that is coming. ARIES - Mar. 21- Apr.19 Don’t think about it do it. That is the best answer for you now. TAURUS - Apr. 20 - May 20 If you really want it it will happen. Let it . GEMINI - May 21 - June 20 There is a better way and that way is the way of champions. If you’re ready time is ready. CANCER - June 21 - July 22 Make your mark in the world by being the person you want to be. Let them see you smile. LEO - July 23 - Aug. 22 Can be the right time for making love. Go and do it before the holidays. VIRGO - AUG. 23 - SEPT. 22 You’re on the right track the devil is trying to hold you back. Love God, let nothing stand in your way and you’ll do great. LIBRA - Sept. 23 - Oct. 22 Like the song says change going to come. SCORPIO - Oct. 23 - Nov. 21 You are blessed this week for something new. Don’t be afraid to let the blessings flow. SAGITTARIUS - Nov. 22 - Dec. 21 You keep trying to hold back the dawn. Let others show and help. CAPRICORN - Dec. 22 - Jan. 19 Holidays can have blessings, but the way you’re going you are throwing your blessing away. AQUARIUS - Jan. 20 - Feb. 18 Once you get the hang of it you can do better. Take a moment to learn. PISCES - Feb. 19 - Mar. 20 At last you will get it done. I hope when you hit the lottery you’ll remember me. Rev. Jean, P. O. Box 1325, Benslem, Pa. 19020 We Never Stop Working! For You!! View SCOOP on the web One of the highlighted party scenes taken at The Woodbine Club formerly located on Germantown Avenue. Do you remember any of these good people of yesteryear? scoop file/Jack Franklin photo www.scoopusanewspaper.com