Gemini One Films in association with Private Side Media

presents WE REMEMBER RAINES , a documentary about the history and legacy of William M Raines High School, Jacksonville, FL

Exclusive Premiere: WE Remember Raines February 25, 2012 – 7:00p

William M Raines Auditorium Jacksonville, FL

http://www.facebook.com/events/324810967557072/

http://werememberraines.tumblr.com

Director: Emanuel Washington
… Executive Director: Andrew Wright
Narrators: Ben Frazier and GeneDotCom
Photography: Tamica Jackson and Donnell Bennett
Assistant Director/Producer: Diallo Sekou
Film Editor: Maxie Coleman
Music Director: Tony White
Theme Song: Tru.Ski The Transmitter
Graphic Design: E. Street Paperie

For more information contact ewashington@nokturnalescape.com or call (904) 465-6891

sponsored by
Nokturnal Escape Entertainment, LLC http://www.nokturnalescape.com/
Eartha MM White Legacy Fund http://www.jaxcf.org/NetCommunity/Page.aspx?pid=530
Jacksonville Free Press http://jacksonvillefreepress.com/
“Still Raines”
William M Raines High School National Alumni Association
Blinkvirtualbuzz.com http://blinkvirtualbuzz.com/

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(the words below were delivered to each member of D.C.P.S. School Board on Febraury 9, 2012)

In the distant past Ecclesiastes 1&9 foretold “ … there is no new thing under the Sun.

“ With a stern emphasis on ‘NO’; these words have never moved from their original points of wisdom. Knowledge of such words to live by; should ideally add comfort to our advertised lives here in Sunny Florida. But, here; we are still found restless. Too often, we are insatiable towards material gains and newly developed philosophies. Newness, constantly diverts our attention. We naively face obstacles; which, were successfully overcome generations ago. We, suffer; by, not learning from our past; we stumble; by, merely not following those who came before us; those, ones who have endured; to, provide us with elementary conveniences of simply tracing their prov en paths. So, why do we continue to ignore key words of antiquity and well known education trailblazers through our perpetual attempts to reinvent the wheel within Duval County Public Schools?

Local actions of insubordination to national educational norms; were exhibited during the aftermath of the landmark case Brown Vs. The Board of Education. A decade following this national benchmark Duval County Public Schools had yet to recognized that our district; too had to follow this desegregation mandate. In 1965, Duval County’s reluctance to integrate was evident; our, stubbornness prompted the covert existence of two separate school systems; which, had one for white students and one for black students. Duval’s open refusal to desegregate resembled the adage of “ cutting your nose off in spite of your face “; sadly, this local sentiment led to all county schools suffering from unthinkable conditions; so, much so that in December of 1964 the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools moved to dis-accredit all of Duval County’s High Schools.

To term this period as Duval’s ‘Dark Ages’ is an understatement. In comparison, our current educational challenges poise only a flicker to the hell experienced during this period. Spontaneously, this period in a dynamic manner; did provide whoever persevered its peril with obsolete fortitude and ingenuity on how to succeed through any future hurdles. To experience and succeed this period would distance one educator from many. An over-comer, of this period would have earned an incomparable pedagogy mind; which, could afford those who ventured after-wards with timeless examples and consistent prov en results; of how to excel at every stage of education; of how to surpass every benchmark placed before them; and, how to shed central lights of wisdom that would successfully transcend each level of The Florida Department of Education’s scope.

Fortunately, there was one who triumphed this period. Florida’s horizon brought with it a source of much needed light and educational wisdom; which, came from none other than our illustrious first principal and brilliant patriarch Dr. Andrew A. Robinson Jr. of The William M. Raines Sr. High School. Let us remember; that, given the landscape, and, uncharted waters; Dr. Robinson made ways for Raines; when, there were none. He accomplished this being accountable; not, accepting excuses from his staff neither his students. With a motivating cry of ‘ICHIBAN’; and, “Knowledge Is Power”; Dr. Robinson led Raines in 1968 to become The First accredited Duval County High School. Dr. Robinson’s resilience left vivid blueprints and consensus admirers of whatever he put his hands on; former Governor Bob Graham affirms this when he notes in his February 13, 1985 congratulatory letter that; “ William M. Raines Senior High School has set a magnificent example for other educational institutions throughout our State”. In true genius fashion Dr. Robinson repeated his educational feats where ever he went. Dr. Robinson spear headed the early berthing of what The University of North Florida has blossom into today; he, championed U.N.F.’s College of Education and Human Services to its first accreditation in 1987, as well.

Respectfully, this is not the half of what Dr. Robinson has sewed; for, us to reap from. Knowing, Dr. Robinson’s prov en acclaim; we must ask; why, are we still in pursuit of our next educational Saviour? Why, are we exhausting costly funds in visiting the latest brands of consultations; and, not revisiting Dr. Robinson’s archived council? Our recent experimentation’s; have at best; led to our schools existing within a feast or famine paradigm; and, not the appellate court’s envisioned unitary status. We currently aspire to address the whole student. If this, is our true desire; then, would not it be better if we revisited Dr. Robinson’s holistic approach of fortifying institutions; by, ensuring that all appropriate compliments of a given school are in place and active to assure a high standard of education. Dr. Robinson, addressed every aspect of Florida’s educational community. Dr. Robinson’s wisdom was not hoarded; we all have access and free will to utilize his sound plans. Let us, remember that the very two most public promotions of Duval County Schools are our College Preparatory and Magnet School Programs; both, concepts are benefits of Dr. Robinson’s brainchild. So, as “We Remember Raines” debuts on Saturday February 25th 2012 at 7pm in Raines’ Auditorium; let us, also continue to remember Dr. Robinson’s impact on our educational landscape. Let us, properly revisit, reinstate and proactively implement his unparalleled educational mind into our future plans. Let us, acknowledge Dr. Robinson more than we have; as our constant reminder; so, if we were ever to lose our course of achieving for all students; his, examples could restore our guidance. Let us, make a motion to use Dr. Robinson’s varied educational wisdom; so, that our educational directions may not be diverted; in order to assure our goals are experienced; through, our respectful following of Dr. Andrew A. Robinson Jr.’s already prov en, beaten path. Thank you; and, take care!

*****************************Also, we would like to acknowledge Brenda Jackson ’71 for her recent “A Silken Thread” nomination in the Literature Category of The 43 rd Annual NAACP Image Awards! (airs Live Friday Feb. 17 th on NBC) NAACP members may vote for Ms. Jackson ’71 using Unit #5105; and, clicking here http://www.naacpimageawards.net/43/nominees-and-honorees/cast-your-vote/ …

And, recognize Atty. A. Wellington Barlow ’79; for becoming the First Historical, Judicial Candidate to collect the required petitions to run in Clay, Duval and Nassau Counties; Mr. Barlow ’79 gained (7,003) valid petitions! www.barlowforjudge.com…

We salute; as well, our longest tenured principal Mr. Jimmie A. Johnson for his particular preservation of Dr. Robinson’s vision(s); his, achievements and worthy service to William M. Raines and D.C.P.S. in his upcoming dedication of A Street Marker named in his honor, Jimmie Johnson Parkway. This celebration takes place on Thursday February 16, 2012, 11:30am at William M. Raines’ Campus.

Everyone, Every Viking is Invited!!!

BCN – Mobile Global Media

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Proud mother: Oprah Winfrey joins her ‘daughters’ at their graduation ceremony in South African on Saturday

She complemented the design by wearing striking eyeshadow and teased her hair into soft waves along with a pair of avocado coloured drop earrings.

Oprah, 57, described herself as a proud mother during the momentous occasion which involved classes of singing and dancing young ladies celebrating their success dressed in demure white frocks.



People in high places: The philanthropist did her best to hold back tears as the Nelson Mandela’s wife Graca Machel embraced her

She said: ‘I have never been more proud to know, to grow, and to call myself Mam Oprah to you girls.’

Listing the blows they have experienced: ‘Divorce. Violence. Molestation. The loss of one parent. The loss of another parent. Sorrow. Sadness. Grief,’ Winfrey also praised the teachers, administrators, social workers, psychologists and family members she said had ensured the students succeeded by starting early and staying late.


Fighting back tears through the applause, one of her 72 students graduating out of 75 who started, took to the podium to speak which prompted more reaction from the star who has been dubbed the richest African American of the 20th Century.

Mashadi Kekana said: “Mam Oprah, thank you for showing us that we’re not just girls, but girls with greater purpose in this world.”

Founded in 2007 with $40 million from Oprah, the school has faced criticism for focusing on a select few in a country that struggles to meet basic education needs.

Momentous day: The star was joined by Nelson Mandela’s wife, Graca Machel, for the ceremony in Henley-on-Klep

Looking gorgeous: The 57-year-old wore a Grecian green gown to celebrate

The American television personality added: ‘When you invest in the leadership of girls, you invest in the leadership of a nation.


‘Because every one of these girls will serve herself, her family, her community and this country, in ways that are yet to amaze you. Just wait to be amazed by these girls.’

Today Oprah also welcomed a special guest in the form of Graca Machel, wife of former South Africa president, Nelson Mandela.

The pair hugged and beamed at each other as families and the world’s media observed their union.

Winfrey told reporters after the ceremony that her girls would continue to be able to rely on her support. A counseling unit had been set up to help all the graduates budget time, money and priorities while in university.

The Class of 2011: Her girls were decked out in angelic white uniforms

Friday was more of a light-hearted day on the educational premises.

She was seen laughing, joking and dancing with the young women, whom she apparently teaches in classes via satellite.

Her graduating students are all headed to universities across South Africa and the United States, undergoing courses in various subjects including medicine, law, engineering and economics.

Oprah says she is cut out for the job because she hasn’t forgotten her roots.

So proud: The world’s media watched on as the TV personality spoke about all 72 girls’ achievements

Across South Africa, more than half a million members of the class of 2011 disappeared before the 496,000 remaining took their final exams, and only a quarter of those who graduated did well enough to qualify for university study, according to government figures.


She said: ‘I know what it’s like to be a poor girl with your heart’s desire to do well in the world. I chose to use my philanthropy to do what I know.’

While the venture has proved rewarding and fruitful, it has not always been an easy ride for founder Oprah.

Shortly after the school was opened, a dormitory matron was accused of abusing teenagers.

The former chat show host, who has spoken out about being abused as a child, said she was ‘profoundly’ disappointed when the woman was acquitted in 2010.

Happy days: Yesterday was less emotional as she sang and danced with her students

Five years ago, 11-and 12-year-old girls arrived who had never used a computer before. They went  to primary schools that lacked enough desks and chairs and were raised by grandmothers or older siblings after losing parents to AIDS or cancer. 

Winfrey notes the graduates were born in 1994, the year apartheid ended…she stated “You are free. You are free to rise. You are free to soar.” Later, Oprah Winfrey was in tears as she is joined by Nelson Mandela’s wife at her South African girls’ school graduation.

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The Inner-Action Entertainment Industry Conference is the solution to the frustrations that many entertainers have be facing.

Marc’s credentials qualify him as the perfect leader for this type of movement. He performs with Fantasia and has toured internationally. Aside from singing background, Marc has a list of achievements as an accomplished songwriter. In 2003, he won The ASCAP Foundation and The Heineken Music Initiative for the R&B song “Brand New.” In 2008, his song, “Hallelujah” song by Troy Sneed, was No. 3 on the Billboard Christian charts. That year, he won  ASCAP Songwriter of the Year for the same song.  These are merely a few examples as to why you should take this gentleman very seriously.

Marc, Founder of The Inner-Action, has a deep passion for those that have a desire to work in this industry. As a songwriter, Marc often found himself in a stagnant state, unable to get a song picked up by labels. “There was always a BUT,” he said, as he recalled the times that he pitched a song to a label representative. He said that would often frustrate him. He knew he had good material, but could not understand why he was facing difficulties. Then he came to the realization, “There is a small circle of people…you have to be tapped into that inner circle some kind of way.” When he began singing background for Fantasia and started to tour with her, he saw how simple it can be if you meet the right people.

This is what led him to start The Inner-Action. He would meet people on the road who were willing to pick up the phone and make a phone call on his behalf. The new digital age helps to make a lot of this possible. Entertainment leaders are more accessible through social media sites such as Twitter and Facebook. However, it is more beneficial to have someone in the industry that can put you in touch with the right people. Marc sees this now and wanting to “reach back” to help others the way he wished he had been helped when he first started out.

The Inner-Action, LLC hosts a summit that meets quarterly in Jacksonville, Florida. This is a summit/conference that educates and connects members of the entertainment community in Jacksonville. All entertainment industry professionals, amateurs, hopefuls—you name it, are invited to attend. This includes models, producers, artists, singers, rappers, musicians, makeup artists, and everyone else. Past topics have covered career management and reputation management. The next meeting will cover the importance of radio play and how to get radio play. Although the company’s slogan is “Getting You Connected,” Marc stresses that The Inner-Action is primarily an educational tool. It is vital that industry hopefuls are educated about the industry prior to connecting with professional within the industry. This is Marc’s goal. His vision is to have the conference every month and to ultimately spread it across the country.

What about the cost? Well, what I found to be the most interesting aspect is that every meeting The Inner-Action partners with a charity. Session #1 they partnered with Trinity Rescue Mission, a center for battered women and children. Free admission was given to attendees who brought a wrapped Christmas gift for a child and it was only $10 admission without a gift. The company collected close to 200 toys. Session #2 they partnered with Cell Phones for Soldiers. This event required participants to bring an old cell phone for $10 admission and $20 without a cell phone donation. They collected close to 50 cell phones that night. Therefore, this an affordable tool that you cannot afford not to utilize. I am excited about this movement and what it can do for the entertainment community of Jacksonville, Florida now and what it can do for other states into the future.

For more information visit www.theinneraction.net

For all of my contact information and other entertainment business information visit http://entertainmentbusinessinsight.blogspot.com

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Betty Seabrook Burney,
Duval County School Board Member
District 5

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Please review the broadband summary text below for further details about this important subject matter.

The Broadband Opportunity Coalition (BBOC) is an historic alliance of civil rights organizations joined together to overcome barriers to adoption of technology in communities of color. BBOC members include the National Urban League, National Association for the Advancement of Colored P

eople (NAACP), National Council of La Raza (NCLR), Asian American Justice Center (AAJC), and the League of United Latin American Citizens (LULAC). The Minority Media and Telecommunications Council (MMTC) and the Joint Center for Political & Economic Studies serve as advisors to the BBOC.

One Economy and the BBOC were awarded $28.5 million in federal stimulus from the National Telecommunications and information Administration (NTIA)’s BTOP program. Through partnerships with AT&T, Comcast, National Association of Broadcasters, Cisco, Google, CTIA—the Wireless Association, and others, One Economy and the BBOC are supplementing the stimulus award with private sector matching support valued at $23 million.

“There are three barriers to Internet use: accessibility, affordability, and lack of relevant content,” said Moustafa Mourad, interim president and CEO of One Economy. “One Economy and the BBOC will continue to work with our corporate and community partners to break down the barriers with innovative and proven initiatives that ensure all people—regardless of background, income, or literacy level—can reap the social and economic benefits of information and technology.”

Key Urban Broadband Players include:

- Marc Morial, Urban League                             - Ralph B. Everett, President of JCPES

- Rey Ramsey, CEO of One Economy               - David Honig

- Moustafa Mourad                - Janet Murguia, president of the National Council of La Raza

- Joint Center for Economic Studies               – Broadband Opportunity Coalition

- Minority Media and Telecommunications Council

Read more >
http://one-economy.org/sites/all/files/OE%20BBOC%20Stimulus%20Press%20Release.pdf

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West Philadelphia High School sits in the middle of one of the most disadvantaged neighborhoods in Philadelphia. It’s like any other inner-city school in the country–chronically low-performing and persistently dangerous.

“I think it’s a tough place to see large success or a lot of students succeeding at really high levels,” says Simon Hauger, former director of West Philadelphia High School’s Academy of Automotive and Mechanical Engineering–or “Auto” as it’s known at the school–and current director for the X Team.

Despite the difficult environment and low expectations, in 1998 a team of students (known then as the EV Team) pulled the engine from a go-cart, replaced it with an electric engine, and entered it into the Philadelphia Science Fair–a competitive event that West Philly students had never excelled in. To the students’ surprise, they finished second out of 600 entrants.

http://bit.ly/hybridx

Inner-city high school team battles to build $10 million ultimate hybrid car

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NewAmericaFoundation — June 11, 2010 — Access to high-speed, affordable and ubiquitous broadband is a necessity in the 21st century. Although Congress allocated $7.2 Billion for broadband projects in the 2009 Stimulus Act, the final application round for funding has closed. The Federal Communications Commission (FCC) estimates that an additional $350 billion is needed to expand high-speed connectivity nationwide; meaning cities and communities will need to explore other options for bringing broadband to their residents, businesses and institutions.

On June 10th, 2010, Craig Settles will present key lessons from his book, Fighting the Next Good Fight: Bringing True Broadband to Your Community. A broadband business strategist, marketing expert, author and internationally renowned speaker, Craig Settles helps organizations use broadband technologies to improve local government’s operating efficiency, as well as promote local economic development.

Fighting the Next Good Fight offers guidelines to action for government administrators and IT staff, private-sector companies, community stakeholders and economic development professionals. These serve as the foundation to build a financially sustainable broadband networks in communities across the country. Government initiatives, private sector entrepreneurship and community efforts can all play a role as the next catalysts for municipal and community broadband and help bridge the digital divide.

Bryan Sivak, Chief Technology Officer of the District of Columbia, Joanne Hovis, President-Elect of NATOA and President of Columbia Telecommunications Corporation and Gary Carter, Analyst at City of Santa Monica Information Systems Department will respond to Mr. Settles’ presentation.

http://www.newamerica.net/events/2010…

Excerpt from Youtube – New America

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