Florida Sentinel Bulletin

BY IRIS B. HOLTON

Sentinel City Editor

A Tampa woman sentenced to 9 years in federal prison was granted early release last Thursday. The motion filed stated that she is battling terminal cancer.

According to court documents, Ms. Shawntrece Sims, 33, was diagnosed with cancer in August. An MRI determined that the cancer had metastasized to her bones. Ms. Sims has a life expectancy of less than a year.

Ms. Sims drew public attention after an arrest in the “Operation Rainmaker” case in 2011. She was one of 49 people arrested by a multi-jurisdictional law enforcement task force.

According to the U. S. Attorney’s Office Middle District of Florida, Ms. Sims was on bond awaiting sentencing when she was arrested again on similar charges. Ms. Sims was arrested on August 11, 2011.

According to court documents filed by the U. S. Attorney’s Office, Ms. Sims signed a plea agreement on previous charges on February 14^th. She appeared before U. S. Magistrate Judge Thomas G. Wilson on March 17^th and pleaded guilty to one count of making a false claim and one count of mail fraud.

During the court appearance, Ms. Sims admitted to preparing and electronically filing false income tax returns, which totaled $263,004.00 in 2008.

While released from jail on bond, Ms. Sims was involved in the filing of numerous false tax returns during the first half of 2011. She allegedly received $409,883.00 in fraudulent refunds from the Internal Revenue Service this year, the document stated.

Between January 29^th and May 2011, Ms. Sims and other defendants are accused of filing 52 fraudulent tax returns. Ms. Sims is alleged to have filed multiple false claims on behalf of 7 deceased people all with the same last name two days after she signed the plea agreement.

Tubal Ligation Reversal

According to the court documents, Ms. Sims allegedly used money obtained by fraudulent means for a medical procedure. She allegedly attempted to become pregnant prior to sentencing.

Police in South Dakota investigating tax fraud cases learned the case is linked to the bay area. Nine defendants appeared in federal court Thursday.

According to court documents indicted by a South Dakota grand jury were: Alphonso Rico Valdez, Charlie Frank Adams, Raunta Stanislaus Ellison, Jeremy Jamar Blount, Melissa Dinataly, Terry Daron Liggins, Christopher Duane Frierson, Marquis Butler, and Christopher Jamel Lundy were arrested. They face charges of Conspiracy to defraud the U. S. Government, and Aggravated Identity Theft.

The individuals were arrested in Tampa Thursday. Each was released on a $40,000 signature bond, a spokesperson for the U. S. Middle District U. S. Attorney’s Office said.

Investigators said, beginning in June 2011 until May 2012, the defendants, and other known and unknown, to the grand jury “knowingly and willfully entered into an agreement with each other to defraud the U. S. Department of Treasury, by obtaining and aiding to obtain the payment and allowance of false, fictitious, and fraudulent” income tax claims.

The spokesman further stated the defendants were arrested and appeared in court in Tampa, however, the case is being investigated by the office in South Dakota.

BY IRIS B. HOLTON

Sentinel City Editor

Earlier this year, Dr. Sydel LeGrande experienced a life-altering event. Her husband, personal fitness trainer George LeGrande, died suddenly.

Dr. LeGrande, founder of Fruit of Glory Ministries said, “When I was at my lowest, I cried out to Jesus. Jesus did not give me peace, He became my peace. Now, I have an opportunity to offer the Prince of Peace to others.”

Dr. LeGrande is referring to the many young men who die due to street violence. This year, she has changed the focus of her annual Christmas Banquet, “Whose Birthday Is It Anyway?”

This year, she is focusing on stopping the cycle of hate. “I can’t do Christmas as usual this year. Too much has changed. As I see patients, I find myself almost weekly comforting mothers, wives, and sisters grieving because of a loved one that was killed as a result of street violence. As they share their story, I have an opportunity to share mine.

“Often, from my patients, I hear about the children that have been left behind. My heart breaks for these children. … It’s the children that are driving me to do Christmas differently. I am asking other businesses and individuals to help our ministry in providing toys for these kids. I believe with purposeful acts of love, we can STOP THE CYCLE OF HATE.”

Dr. LeGrande said a heavenly host announced the birth of Christ more than 2,000 years ago. “‘The words, “Glory to God in the highest, and on earth peace, good will toward men.’ This peace begins in our cities, our neighborhoods, and our streets. It really begins with you and I.”

This year, Dr. LeGrande will host two banquets. The first will take place on December 15, from noon to 4 p.m. It will be held in Bradenton. “We want to bless the children of Manatee County this year.”

She will host the traditional event in Tampa on December 22, from noon to 4 p.m. It will be held at G’s Place, 3040 W. Cypress, (corner of MacDill and Cypress).

“Now, I ask for help to find these children. If anyone knows of a child in Hillsborough or Manatee County who has lost his or her parent to street violence within the last twelve (12) months, to call our ministry at (813) 642-7334. Space is limited and they should register at soon as possible.”

BY LEON B. CREWS

Sentinel Staff Writer

Tiffany Greene said she can’t remember  a time in her life when she wasn’t interested in sports. Throughout her high school career at Hillsborough High School, and college career at Florida A&M University, she has been involved in athletics.

“When I graduated from college, all I thought about was getting into sports broadcasting. I think I was just born with the gene, and I enjoy competition and dedication. I also love telling stories outside of the pressure and competition involved in winning. This allows me to get more exposure to the sports world.”

Ms. Green said within two months of graduating from college, she secured a job as a production assistant.

“This has truly been a journey for me, and I credit Brent Solomon with getting me my true on-air start. Our families were always close, and he was very encouraging to me.

“He called me in December 2003 about an opportunity in Savannah, Georgia, and that’s where I got my start. I knew it was Brent’s recommendation that got me the job.”

Ms. Greene said of all the women involved in sports broadcasting, she admires Robin Roberts the most.

“I am proud of how she was able to get into a male dominated field, and make a name for herself. I was always impressed by her, and I got a chance to meet her a couple of years ago. I found her to be the same special person I admired, and we stay in touch with each other today.”

Ms. Greene said to be successful as a sports journalist, you have to be honest, fair, assertive, accurate, and real.

“As long as you find a way to humanize each story, you will make the average sports fan and non-sports fan be as interested in what you’re doing.

“My goal is to make it o the national stage. I’ve done some sideline reporting for ESPN3, and I hope to develop that on a more permanent basis. I’d also like to do play-by-play, because that’s an area where women are still underrepresented.”

Ms. Greene said she would not be where she is today without the support of her parents, Dale and Patsy Greene, and the rest of her family.

“My dad helped build my foundation and kept me motivated as I grew up. My mom deserves the same credit, and she cares a lot about how I should look o the air.

“People see you, and she is aware of that. She’s my personal stylist, and I get a lot of praise about my appearance. I just want to make them all proud.”

Ms. Greene said she’s a believer in saying she is blessed to know what her passion is, and she encourages others to find what their passion is.

“When they find it, I want them to go for it. I live my dream every day, and you couldn’t ask for much more than that.”

BY IRIS B. HOLTON

Sentinel City Editor

Hurricane Sandy claimed the life of a 35-year-old man who has ties to a popular Tampa family. He died after a vehicle fell on him.

Community activist Ann Jenkins said her nephew, Aaron Jerome Smith, died on Tuesday, October 30^th.

Smith was the son of Pete Jerome Smith, of Tampa, and Ms. Gloria Artis, of Washington, D. C.

Ms. Jenkins said her nephew went out to help a friend in the strong winds brought about by Hurricane Sandy. The friend had a flat tire and Smith was attempting to help him during the strong winds and rain.

“His friend told us that (Aaron) Smith was under the car trying to free the spare tire.  The wind played a significant part in blowing the jack from under the car, causing it to fall and crush Smith.

“Normally the spare tire is lowered from within the car, but on that morning, it apparently was hung up. Smith went under the car to free it,” Ms. Jenkins said.

She further stated that Smith was unemployed and had several health issues at the time of his death. “As a young man, he was very talented; he practiced art and music. He was always willing to lend a helping hand to those in need. He was known for reaching out to help others.

“He was loved and embraced by everyone that knew him and his passion for Christ and the Church was always strong and unwavering.”

Smith is survived by his parents, 2 brothers, 2 step-brothers, other family members and friends.

Funeral services for Smith will take place on Saturday, October 17, at Aikens Funeral Home. (See Funeral Page In The Sentinel).

BY LEON B. CREWS

Sentinel Staff Writer

During their board meeting Wednesday, the Tampa Housing Authority’s Commissioners approved a resolution to select McCormack Baron Salazar as the developer partner for the redevelopment of North Boulevard Homes and Bethune Hi-Rise.

During the public speaking part of the meeting, Dwight Bolden asked the Board to step up and make sure all of the organizations of West Tampa have a seat at the table during the planning process.

Board Chair, Dr. Hazel Harvey, repeated Bolden’s request, and added that it’s vital that everyone in West Tampa have a voice in the process.

Representing the West Tampa Chamber of Commerce and InTown Homes, Ed Turanchik addressed the Board, pointing out that it would be a community wide project.

“Any project that concentrates only on the redevelopment of the North Boulevard Homes property is not complete. That plan should embrace the entire community, and it should be a joint effort for the redevelopment of all of West Tampa, not just North Boulevard Homes.”

Turanchik suggested T.H.A. form a partnership with outside interests in the development of West Tampa.

T.H.A. Chief Operating Officer, Leroy Moore, responded by saying the partnerships were formed long ago when it was first decided that North Boulevard Homes would be demolished.

“We’ve had an RFQ in place for a year. We’ve also recognized the importance of the proximity of the river and developing other partnerships for land swaps. We’re putting rough ideas on paper, and now we’ve brought on board a development partner.

“Joint development of the area is what we want to do. Representatives from the landowners form the selection committee, who recommended McCormack Baron Salazar as our developer.”

Comm. Manny Alvarez said it’s about time West Tampa gets recognized.

“I’d like to see a lot of diversity there. My concern is for the elderly in that community. They have no drug store, department store, or other resources necessary to support them. I want to see what plan Salazar has to support the infrastructure of West Tampa.”

Dr. Harvey said the history of West Tampa, along with reality planning, design, and financing are key factors. I want to emphasize local residents must be a part of the planning and employment opportunity part of this project.

Urban Planning President for McCormack Baron Salazar, Sandra Moore, said community trust has to be a part of this project, or nothing else will work.

“We envision an educational corridor because there are five educational facilities along the west bank of the river, beginning at the University of Tampa and going north.”

The Board will meet again review sources to finance the project, and at that time a timetable will be set on when the project will begin.

T.H.A. Director, Jerome Ryans, warned that there are changes underway at the Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD), and they are expected to complete their reorganization in the next 160 days.

BY LEON B. CREWS

Sentinel Staff Writer

When West Tampa Community Group facilitator, Dwight Bolden, and West Tampa Black Business Association President, Bennie Small, read the West Tampa Chamber of Commerce’s plans for the redevelopment of West Tampa, they had plenty of questions.

“One glaring omission was any mention of the role African Americans played in the history of West Tampa,” said Bolden.

“I quickly noticed that their plan was kind of vague, and loaded with undertones,” said Small.

The gentlemen requested, and were granted, a meeting with the Chamber last week, and after the meeting neither Bolden or Small felt confident that they were taken seriously.

“I got the impression they were basically telling us what their plans were, and letting us know they were in charge, and anything we wanted, we had to go through them.

“They gave us a lot of information, and I appreciate them taking the time to sit down and talk with us. We told them where we stood on their plan, and we were seeking inclusion at the ground level, not after the plan is initiated.”

Small said it appeared the Chamber members were more than happy to talk to them, but also were careful not to mention anything specific.

“They gave us subtle hints of what their intentions are, and I felt like they were talking over our heads, or at least trying to.

“This will all come down to the approval of the Tampa City Council, and before that happens, we as a community will be heard and represented.  As we’ve said in the past, we have no problem with West Tampa being redeveloped. We think it’s long past due. What we want is to be a part of that project, have some input into what lies ahead, and get some employment opportunities out of it.”

Small said the Chamber has scheduled a series of meetings that are supposed to begin in December to present their plan to the general public.

“I want to make sure the people understand what this plan is all about, and the impact it will play on their lives.

“It seems forgotten somewhere in the process that in order to redevelop West Tampa, residents will have to know what will happen to them, and will they be able to stay, or forced to leave.”

Small and Bolden said the best way to accomplish that is to create better unity among the residents and business owners in the area, and make sure they know what’s going on.

Tatiana Denson, former State Representative candidate and part of the WTCG, said one suggestion was to turn Main Street into a historic landmark to protect the African American businesses.

“We also asked for them to amend their plan for the redevelopment of West Tampa to make it more inclusive.”

Ms. Denson said she also plans on joining the West Tampa Chamber of Commerce to have a more hands-on look at what’s going on in West Tampa.

With Floyd “Floyd Joy” Rivers being among only a handful of disc jockeys who’ve been performing for more than four decades, it should come as no surprise that he has achieved legendary status.

Two months ago, the area’s most celebrated DJ suffered a mild stroke that also aggravated other health problems, and required him to spend a long time in the hospital.

Floyd Joy’s hospital stay, as well as other medical expenses, has overwhelmed him and his family, so a group of his close friends and colleagues decided to come to the rescue.

Three area lounges, the Zanzi Bar, Cotton Club, and Double Decker, have all agreed to host three events to help raise funds to cover the mounting medical expenses Floyd Joy has experienced.

The first event will be held Friday, November 16^th at the Double Decker Lounge on Cass Street and Edison Avenue. The second event will be held Saturday, November 17^th upstairs at the new Zanzi Bar Lounge on Main Street. The third event will be held at the Cotton Club on the corner of Albany Avenue and Beach Street.

All of the events will begin at 8 p. m., and featured guests will be local singer, Casanova, along with Carl Mark, Jr., and the Jackson Brothers.

All of Floyd Joy’s friends, associates, colleagues, and fans are invited to come out and show their support.

As part of an ongoing investigation in the Clair Mel area, the Hillsborough County Sheriff’s Office teamed up with other agencies to address criminal activity. Residential burglaries, commercial and personal robberies, and grand thefts reportedly occur frequently in that community.

On November 9^th at 7 a. m., detectives began a roundup that resulted in more than two dozen people being picked up on an assortment of charges.

Arrested in the roundup were:

COLEY TURNER (pictured, top left), DEVIN MAYMON (pictured, top right), EMILY STEGNER  (pictured, bottom left), JAMEL JOHNSON  (pictured, bottom left), TANEYA GOODS, MICHAEL DEVINE, EDMUND JONES, WIN HUTCHINSON, ARMANDO TAYLOR, DAMIAN HARDIE, DOMINIC TATE, ANTONIO MONROE, ZAKI GRIER, DANDRE PRESSLEY, JEROME HOLLAND