Fortieth anniversary of Central High School Crisis in 1997. Biographical sketch of Daisy L. Bates, correspondence, copy of """"The Tiger,"""" Little Rock Central High School, October 18, 1996
FILE No, 194 09/10 97 99:59 iD:HLLS7ATE INSURANCE 1S008&15096 PAGE P <7. X o y < 4.0 : X icarou
. 373 ooir SW^BT AR PR PEPT. a 002 biographical SKETCH OF DAISY L. BATES Mrs. Daisy L. Bates is the recipient of over 200 citations and arvards, mchidin' Honorary Doctorate Degrees iiv Human-e Letters from Lmcoln Dlniversity, PA. Philander Smith College, Little Rock, AR
Washington University,. St. L.o'iii,s, M. and the Univetsity of Arkansas, Fayetteville, AR
the .Harriet Tuisman Award, the NAACP Spmgarn Medal, the Diamond Cross of Malta, from Cotillion Society, Delti Sigma Theta s First Annuai Mary Church Terrell Award, the Sojourner Truth Award, the Robert S- Abbott Award and many others. She is listed in "Whos Who in American Women," nam.ed "Q[\e q!. the Top Nine News Personalities of the World for 1957' by the Associated Press
named "Outstanding Citizen of the Year. (19,57) by the National Council of Negro Women. The first woman to address the .Massachusetts State Senate, she was awarded the .Senate Gavel, made from, the a Battleship USS Constitution. She has been presented keys to rr.any major cities in this cc '.try. MiS Bates is also the author of the hook T'Hh I.Q.NG SHADOW OF LiHU U>CK. published by David .McKay of New York, 1962. h .'s Bates won International acclaim in 1957 for her role as mentor for the nine black students who broke the color barrier at Central High School in Little Rock,. Arkansas to attend classes with white students. She is a native of Arkansas, born in a little town name Huttig which is located in Union County, south Arkansas. During the school desegregation crisis of Central Higfi Schoo! in 19.57 Mrs. nates was President of the Arkansas State Conference of Branches of the National ssociahon for the Advancement of Colored People (the NAACP) and co-publisher die .Arkansas State Press, an outspoken weekly newspaper with her husband I,. C. bates, The paper was destined to change tl
e practice of white Arkansans. She along With iv^arp hrarHtiH aa 'ttvrA t*\( fbo wfAcf a with her husban.d were branded a,s "two of the most radical people In A.rkansas." In 1959, the new.spaper fell victim of Arkansas segregationist movement which w'as operated under the shield of the state government After the black students were in Central High School, as part of the newspaper's program, Mr. and Mrs. Bates ceased publiahtng the paper. .Mrs. Bates went to New York City where she wrote a memoir IhjLli).DglhaikiSLQ^ She later joined the Democratic National Committee and worked out of the .National Headquarters in Washington, D. C., durmg the Kennedy -Johnson admixiistration Iri 1968, Mrs. Bates put into use her knowledge gained from the Democratic National Committee. Using her national connections, she carried an innovative self-help program to a comm '-i'y of forgotten senior citizens in Mitchellville, Arkansas, that gave hope nsptratior. and m.otivation to citizens who were on the brink of succumbing to desoknop and despair. htate Press Newspaper the award v>'irining weekly that gained state and in.ternationi acclaim during the period of 1941- iS59. Mrs. Batas' decision was a majoi O'tte because the Arxansas State Press had beer, oat of circulation for twen four years. Now, the Arkansas State Press continues as a tribute to her hnsban as a vehicle for positive images and performances for the African-An* community m Arkansas. nFILE No. 94 09.40 97 10:00 ID:ALLSTATE INSURANCE 18008215096 <JOU4 it ouiO SWBT AR PR DEPT. PAGE : 3003 Mre, Daisy L Bates Page 2 pi_Vii:^iiljh_Ariaiis^jiiaLt2WAjig.tiniant,T2ujiDg4h^aiavai CQffigfxay.^^hllshgd-th Dai.sy and L. C. Bates ':>9h9iiirsrilp Awards,,in hdhPr_oT..AVlr...Ahd Mrs..Bal&L. The Bates Scholarslup A.wards underwritten by Southwestern Bell for African American College students, ensured that more than 60 stuoents graduate from colleges and universities with fno.>'e than i2L)0,0uC awarded for the Bates Scholars, The Bates Scholarships sponsored bv Southwestern Bell continues today and is in its 12th year Mrs. Bates was recognized by the Arkansas Gazette Newspaper, a major statewide daily as one of the 100 most sane year influential persons in the state of Arkansas. '^friYpnity af^jjanaax^teaijaigg^ bonk The Long alidafllY aLLlttlC Rqcn in tPbutg to her service to humanity and whic.h is .still laeiiinerlliaiarx-ihGMi^ ir. the South. In 1990/ Mrs. Bates was awarded the National Conference of Christiins and Jews the Outstanding Humanitarian Award Also, several elementary and high schools are named in her honor in Arkansas Today, Daisy Bates is still sought by business, political, education, and community leaders for her wise counsel. IrLl$94, Mrs, Bates establlshed^he D^hsy ttad-gi-gCidl to raise 2 million dollars by 1997 for sci'iCisL^iudfints to bs able to attend college. Mrs. Bates said, and continues say, "all I ever wanted was for the kids, especially the black kids to go to school and " get a hull education. .And with the help of people from all across this world, we will make it happen. inues to -30-FILE 194 0940 '97 10:01 ID:ALLSTATE INSURANCE 18'008215096 PAGE 4 'J '^"na - .'T ^3 / > r /1 dd . C7f'<. A A^n L J I A- J I,-. : AS/tf
. 4-i:- L.>'' cL- ~ r- 5' U ') . A-j-:/'. -_/aJ U-L'.^d Aj (''^1-4'' Q 5'V/ii 7.. ! /'A ..4. ,--v h'LOl Lrt'r^ i'^Lt .'4ja. .aa ..>./ A~ .J dy-'i I ^.J J < )' - fA. / /A ''t.d' /I 7' - *'4 I / ^ J- Li)A., r ij J" I a -t^ I 1 d-- !' i- / J 'Ai' ,-' '^J f /Itt". ,1 !/ .AJOHN W. WALKER RALPH WASHINGTON MARK BURNETTE AUSTIN PORTER. JR. JOHN w. Walker, p.a. Attorney At Law 1723 Broadway Little Ro<'k. Arkansas 72206 Telephone (501) 374-3758 FAX (501) 374-4187 u October 25, 1996 Cl 2 3 1996 Ms. Ann Brown Office of Desegregation Monitoring 201 East Markham, Suite 510 Little Rock, AR 72201 Dear Ms. Brown: While addressing a student hearing on October 23, 1996, I also had the occasion to review the Little Rock Central High School newspaper. The Tiger. In looking at the paper, I came to the conclusion that this newspaper is of, by, and for white children at Central High School. Mr. Howard. I discussed this matter with His opinions reflect an awareness of the issue and an ultimate intention to address them. This letter is not to complain about Mr. Howard who is doing his best to work with a difficult situation. It is, however, to request that your office look more carefully into student activities to determine whether the three districts are working to change racial patterns. attitudes, preferences and stereotypes. After all, the goal of the desegregation plan is a fully desegregated and integrated school system which has no remaining vestiges of discrimination. For your information, I am sending you the newspaper from Central dated 10/18/96. The first article addresses the preliminary scholastic aptitude test (PSAT). I previously brought to your attention that this is administered in such a way to give advantage to virtually all the white students at Central and to disadvantage black students through use of a fee qualifier. The second article deals with white student focused college advisements. With respect to the latter, I spoke with Central High Head Counselor, Sam Blair, who indicated an awareness of the problem and an effort to balance it by securing a minority representative from Rice University. In view of the fact that very few black students attend Rice, her presence was a mere gesture that could have been ignored altogether. Mr. Blair seemed without knowledge regarding recruitment of persons from closer to home black colleges. The program focus was clearly for white students. That is further made clear from several other articles including one entitled: "LR Central Boasts 22 AP Scholars", page 1. When I turn the page, it becomes evident that the staff and sponsor are virtually all white persons in a two-thirds blackschool. The writers with names like Rhea Rushing, Kristine Jarsma, Boriana Stefanova are clearly non-black. advertisements are only from white enterprises, and on. And the I could go on I ask that your monitoring be enlarged to address the substance of inclusion rather than merely the numbers. I also ask that you monitor the monitoring groups to assess the extent to which they and the respective Districts are addressing these kinds of issues. This will necessarily include the selection practices, selection criteria, application of selection criteria, correlation between the race of the sponsor and the participants, etc. While I am at it, let me also ask you to review the composition and substance of the PTA/PTO organizations. It appears that these organizations are generally white dominated and exclude black people through subtle discrimination forms such as times of meetings, method of notice to parents, preference of principals, etc. I am finally asking that you share these concerns with the monitoring groups including the Arkansas Department of Education and let us hear back from you with respect to your report as soon as possible. Thank you for your consideration. V) y t^uly yours, j/)hn W. Walker JWW:jsC-SPAN to visit Central About four dozen students will have a chance to observe C-SPAN as their media organization visits Central High on Friday, Nov. 1. LITTLE ROCK CENTRAL HIGH SCHOOL Volume 102 News BrIeFs: Little Rock, Arkansas, October 18,1996 Homecoming court chosen following A number of juniors and student elections sophomores look the nationwide Preliminary Scholastic Aptitude Tesi/Naiional Merit Scholarship Qualifying Test Secily Stephens, 12
Alondra (PSAT/NMSQT) Tuesday 12
Molly Darragh, 12
morning of this week. Mary Fleming, 12
Jenny Wiedower. 12
Monica Simpson, 11
and Judith Batson, 11. Not pictured is sophomore maid Evita Washington. There is a meeting for these students in room 111 today at 3:55 after school. The homecoming game and coronation are Friday. October 25. That night the football team plays Parkview. A dance is planned for Saturday, Oct. 26 at 8 p.m. at the Excelsior. (Photo by Anthony Jacuzzi). October 25 is the deadline to enter the Mr. and Miss Little Rock Central High School contest. sponsored by Troubadours. The entry fee and 8x10 photo - are due to Mrs. Kathy Holladay by 4 p.m. next Friday. Attention All Seniors: Today is your last day to pick your "senior pose" for the People Sec-lion of the '97 PIX yccU'book, The yciirhook staff will select your best photo if you don't slop by Ihc journalism rooms (101/ 103) by ihi,s afternoon at 3:45 p.m. T(xjay is also Ihc last day to By Amy Swesey complete the "Senior Activity Forms." Informalion from Sunday. Ocl. 13. dial focused lhc.se sheets is placed by senior pictures in the yearbook. Seniors who had pictures steps involved in choo.sing ihe made this fall (on makeup day) college that fits each individual should be receiving their and ihe slops involved when proofs in ihc mail loday orvery applying to a college. soon, according to Davis-Pack. Those wanting to order pictures from proofs can do so in the bookstore. The dale lo order pictures is Oct. 28 from 8:30- 1:00. Concealed tunnels explored under school By Erin Owens Have you ever heard rumors about secret tunnels under Central or wondered whats on the fifth floor? Many probably have, but how many have actually been in these strange places? Monday. Oct. 14. junior Ralph Jack-son and 1 met with building engineer Mr. Bill Cloud, and look a lour of the building. But areas. (Photo by Erin Owens. we didnt just go through the building, we went above and underneath the building. Mr. Cloud first look us to the fifth floor. The fifth floor was ihc original band room and was used until the mid-1960s. Band students had to haul their instruments there after every game. After being the band room, the room changed to the The court this year is composed of (left to right) Elizabeth Faulkner, 10
Nikki Mellberg, 11
Central bests cellege workshop AdmlssioDSjjfficers give advice on Central hosted a program the college admission process. Representatives from various colleges discussed the We had 2(X) people, mostly parents, here on Sunday afternoon for our program. 1 would say that qualifies as a success, said Mr. Sam Blair, head counselors of the Guidance Tight squeeze. Ralph Jackson, a junior, crouches to make his way through a secluded tunnel that runs under the school. He and Erin Owens, another Junior, were given a tour by Mr. Bill Cloud. They saw some of the buildings less traveled drama depanmeni. Because the room has only one staircase, it was considered a fire hazard. The fifth Boor was closed about three years ago for that problem. The fifth lloor is the only way to get to the roof of the main building. The room is opened al least once every year to clean the roof. Number 7 LRSD hosts College Fairs Depanmeni. Joe D
irling. director of admission al the University of Central Arkansas, discussed when lo apply for admission, scholarships, and financial aid. He stressed the importance of applying to college Ciirly. Mike Williams, director of admissions at Harding University, talked about how to use the various college guides. Some of the guides he mentioned were The Col leuc Handbook. Petersons Guide to a Four-Year College, and Ihji While looking around ihe room. Jackson and 1 noticed a ladder leading lo a hole in ihc ceiling. When we climlxd it, we discovered another room. Mr. Cloud said he isnt sure what that area was used for or if it was ever used. He thinks that ii possibly designed as a bell tower. Continiied on nagc4 Right College. There is access to a selected number of these guides in the Guidance office. Mari both Lynes, director of undergraduate recruilmeni al the University of Arkiuisas at Fayetteville, discussed college informalion including how to apply, types of scholarship.s. mid scholarship availability, Diana Amis, associate director of admissions at Hendrix College, explained the process of applying for fimuicial aid. The campus visit was discussed by Sue Pine, associate director of admissions al the University of Arkansas at Little Rex'k. It was stressed that the campu.s visit should lx: a very strong source when deciding on a college. Tamara Siler, asstx'iaie director of admissions mid coordinator of minority recruitment al Rice University (Houston. TX), explained admissions al highly selective oui-of-staie colleges. The program was orgmiizcd by Ihc Guidance Deparlnieni. LR Central boasts 22 AP Scholars Twenty-two seniors and recent graduates of UttJe R(X,k Central Higli have been named AP Scholars by the College Board in recognition of their exceptional achievement on the college-level Advanced Placement (AP) Examinations. One of the students, '96 graduate Robert ^cau) Brewer, is Arkansas's Red Ribbon Week A number of Central organizations will again participate In national Red Ribbon Week, Oct. 23-31. By Rachel Wilford College informalion galore was offered to Little Rock School District students Thursday. Oct. 10 al 6:30 p.m. The Statehouse Convention Center in the Excelsior Hotel hosted the annual event. College Night is intended to give college-bound students iuid their parents the chance to visit with over 100 college representatives from across the country. College Night also included a financial aid workshop for parents, beginning at 6 p.m.. Four of the Ivy League schools grouped together and presented their own program al the University Hilton, The colleges there w'cre Penn. Georgetown. Duke. and Harvard. The showing of students and parents there was substantially smaller than that ai the Excelsior. "1 have a clearer picture of my ideal school." said Lucie Wetzel, a LRCH senior. AP Scholar of the Year. Brewer is recognized for his outstanding performance and making perfect 5's on eight AP exams. Central seniors who have already been named AP Scholars and who have at least one more year in which to complete collcgc-levcl work, and .CQntimwd on page 3 Page 2 October 18, 1996 Four more years! By Michael Woodruff Now, Im not trying to say that Bob Dole is a scary, crotchety, old man... Dole just isnt the kind of guy wc need right now as our national leader. He wants to bring back the good ole day.s which includes the controversial Reaganomics. 'I he trouble is, during Reagans reign, thedeficit multiplied threefold. VVedont want to go back to that sort of chaos. What America needs... no correct that, what our world needs, is a man (or woman) who can lake democracy proudly into the next millennium, someone that is in touch with todays people, someone whose ideas are actually plausible, someone that can keep hi.s balance. What wenced isan Arkansan. And look, theres one available: our own hometown boy, Bill Clinton. Clinton hasprovenhimselfthecapableleader that America was hoping for in the 92 election. He.s helped rescue Bo.snia from its horrible bloodshed, hes motivated democracy for the first time in Haiti, hes stood up to Saddams aggression, he.s cut the deficit, and praise be it, unemployment is even hugging the floor. Concerning the debates, the President soared, while Dole, bles.s his heart, seemed to just stumble through the Clinton-dominated hour and a half match. Dole dribbled out some fairly superfluous remarks about America saying no to drugs and his homepage on the World Wide Web. In the vice presidential debates, Kemp had his moments, though for the greater part of the debate, he dogmatically preached the same monotonous sermon, Gotta help the employer, Id also like to say that we really dont care how many foxholc.s his friend, Bob Dole, crawled rxta t rvF iri \AZ\XIT 14 I. __ .... .1.. .. ... . w,, , ..... _ _ _ . ' same outofin WWntosavehowevermany wounded comrades. This sort of HulThasnothingto do with hisability to manage thcentireFree World. 1I 1l1l uallcsofi nn/oiftne t<hh>aitt Kb/ot*hU ttUh.e. DI*.e._m__o_c__r_a4ts- _w__e_r__ei _a__b_l_e_ _t_o__ _h_a__r_m_ oni. ze .th.e.i r p.l ans for the next. fo ur years whi_l e _D o.l e and Kemp occasionally contradicted each other. Dole was emphatically appalled that Clintons foreign policy included intervention in international affairs when America had nothing to gain (youd think world peace wasntreward enough). Anyway.eome Wednesday,Gore announced that our country - , ----- ---------------- a"/' "J ""J w....... . > V MtlllVIUtiVVU tllOL UUl WUim J h^ been totally repaid for its Ioan to Mexico (which they used to bail themselves out of their economic nightmare a couple years ago) and the _ _ . - ' -----------V---------va kvviiviuiviugu<iuaic<icuupieyciu,vagu
diiuuic Ub received some extra cash back as interest. Well, get this, Kemp was shocked at this delightful news because he interpreted it that wed profited al the cost of another countrys misfortune. Huh? Basically, Dole wants something in return for his help, while Kemp would like to shell out the aid for nothing. Well, while these two are sorting out which policy to run with, the rest of America will be celebrating four more wonderful years. And Im sure most ot us at Central will be right there, cheeringon our own favorite neighbor into the history books as one of our most capable leaders. 1 got a laugh at the headline in last week's Newsweek, Does Dole Have A Prayer? Nope. President's Corner Hey Ccniral. Accept No Boundaries (ANB) is a club started al Central to promote racial and cultural harmony and awareness. We tire very excited lo present the opportunity for all students lo Icam about ihc many cultures, beliefs.
uid lifestyles repre-scnied at Ccniral. Each Thursday wc hold a lunchtime discussion meeting, in which everyone is given an open forum lo talk about everything from current movies lo affir-mad VC action. In November we will be coiiducling a canned food drive and scavenger hum. which will provide fotxJ for families during ihc Thanksgiving season. Wc will look forwju-d 10 seeing you ai our meetings, discussions, and activities Jell McAlister ANB Steering Committee Co-Chairperson Relish that Long Kiss Goodnight By Daniel Shannon exeelleni. Every slum is belter sup|xirtiiig actor for this one. Aclion movie.s must be graded on a differenl scale than dramas or comedies. Aclion movie.s should be graded on how enjoyable lliey arc. Tlic belter llie action, the better Ihc movie. The l^ng Kiss Goodnight is by far die bcsl aclion movie of die year. Tlic slory goes like diis (if it llian the l.'isi. Il is well wrillen and well .aclcd (except for Geena Davis, but what do you e.\[K'cl from her?!?). Jackson gives his bcsl pcrfoniKincc since Eiciioti. Pulp He deserves besl Miirc inipnrlanl is dial this movie is fun! Directed by: Renny ilarlin Stiirring:Gecna Davis and Samuel L. Jackson (>radc: A-h (This is a really gixxl) The Ghost and the Darkness mailers): Geena Davis is amnesia viclim living .an as suburban homemaker. She hires Samuel Jacksext, a private invcsli-galor, lo help her uneardi her past Tlial is when lite bad guys come ill... Tlic directing of lliis movie is By Daniel Shannon In The Cihos! and the Darkness. Vai Kilmer plays a man building a railroad tlirough Africa. Two supr-malural lions, tlic Ghost and llic Darkness, start killing off his workers. With the help of a myslerious huiiicr played by Michael Douglas. Kilmer and his Question: Whafe your best/worst (state) fair Slcphaiiic.Spcncer-Colc. l2."Wlic,i Ti.iHcndcrson. H).I found$2(K)by cx|x
ricswcrelcmblc,- Bimy Lewis. I l.-l'iiiinclcakcs." I gol on llic Build for the first lime." .... ...... - .................. _ LaTorsha Brasfield, 12."When I wa.s on the Himalyas and il wouldn't slop." Shilcnca Pills, 12. "My brother Ihrew ice cream all over me." Michael iTccland, 11, Tlic people who work ihcrc." Nick Bondoc. 10. "Had lo go with my aunt." Pauline Okwuosa, 12. "My first, which was my Ixsl lime riding ihc Boal." Ihc funnel cake stand." Tamara Anderson, 11, I rcxle on .a ride with a boy whose breath slunk." Katie Bauman, 11, "1 gol losl when I w.xs younger and w.andcrcd around for Iwo hours, crying." Brian Abson. 11. "Going with my molher." Josh Ratcliff, 10, Rode the Rainbow 17iime.s." Erica Cegers, 12."lfelldown infronl of a whole bunch of people." .Sanali Wright, 11, "Tlie cheerful man Seema Shclh. 11. ' I gol lost from that was playing imaginary drums everyone because 1 kx)ked al the pigs with conidog slicks." James Patterson, 11, "Seeing that fat men streaking." Lis.a Jennings, 10, "Weird people staring al you." loo long." Cliorles Hammond. 12, "When a friend of mine vomited outside .a ride wc jusi go on, and when 1 ate my last piece of cotion c.andy." Su-l,aureii Pen-y. 11, "11 m.ade my Christy Enge. 11. "Riding all the teeth sour." scary rides and eating." Drew Kavanaugh, I l,"I wasup-side Kicra Ayana Couch, I i,"Ugly, gold- Brandon Davis. 11."Fighting." Brill Johnson. 11, "When those JamieSlewarl, 10, "When my friend incompetent people ran out of candy - - - down and all my money fell out of my pockels." loolh men trying to t^k lo me." James McBryde, 10. "The bearded Dcrek Walker, 10, "When I wcnl in lady asked me for my number." was barfing in front of everybody." apples. Igucsslheydidn't know that Patty Walls, 10, "Donl Ihink Ive I was going to be tortured by my mother for not bringing her a candy apple home." Icliiicta Abraham, 11."Iwas talking ever had one." Ross Gloiz.bach, 10. Every year I gel local the funnel cakes." Carrie Brown. 11.My kindergarten sman to one of my friends, and they class wcnl and rode ihc kiddie Iraiii dared me lo drink a Coke and gel on ihc Rainbow!" AmbcrGullcy, IO."Lilmoslgoishol at Ihe fair in Memphis." Belli Russscll. 10, "I went upside down for the first time. Il was terrible." Karl Scidcnsclinur, 10, "When I wrecked a 4-whcclcr," Aaron Ashmore, 10. "When 1 Ihrcw fruil al an employee." Alicia Prager, 10, "1 gol hit in the head with aba.scball two years ago." Kendra Brown, 10," Wlicn I threw up my comdog on the Superloop." and it fcllovcr with all of us in il. 1 'vc been back once since ihcn." Nikki Mellberg, 11, "1 spent all my money on one of those stupid games and ail I gol was an ashtray." Sieve Locke. 12. "I threw up on the Rainbow after calingcollon candy." Evelyn Brown. 12, "I was supposed lo win a baby duck, but they ripped me off. and gave me a sluffed duck." Alicia liorcman. 11, "When my sister and I met .some dudes and she knew one and he p.iid for everything wc wanted." Robert Plant. II. 12. "All of my fair the scary house with areal prell girl." Gibson Harris, 10, "I wa.s in a Tornado full of money." Andrea Martinez, 11, "I wa.s upside down on the Gravilron when llic ride slopped and I fell on my head." Randie Young, II), Tlic only thing I remember is the rodeo." kaura Jennings, 11."Almost falling off of Ihc Rainbow al 200 feel in Ilie air." Josh Neal, 11, "1 was raped by a pirate." Milchcll Stapleton, 10, "Wlien the wall wcnl up on the Gravilron .and I smacked my head on the ceiling." Anne Brainard, II, "1 was stuck upside down forarcally long lime!" Tanner Jackson. 12. "A II the screaming made my voice crack." Laura-Bclh Holden. 11. "Buck .and his red-neck friends." Cassie Oden. I l."Tliisguyput:igiin Io my head and siiid. 'Give me all your money. and I said 'no' ajid scared him away." Aaron Buford, 1 l,Gol searched by RobynScivally, 11,"TireSuperLoop Ihc police for no reason." Nickolc Johnson. 11. This girl fcl I off of the ferris wheel that I was on." Anne Jones. 12. "Gol sick." (best & worsl)." Lauren Cowart. II, "When I was wailing ill line and sonwonc dial was Owen Stevens, 12, I dropped a funnel cake." D.ividCrane. l2,"Cioingloil." Jennifer Demoss. 10, I bad lo go with my parcnls. workers go hunting for the lions. Al limes fake, al limes relentlessly frightening, this movie must be looked at in several ways lo understand il fully. At Ihe very least, Kilmer docs die bcsl job of his career in lhi.s movie. Directed by: Stephen Hopkins Stnrring: Vai Kilmer and Michael Douglas Grade (a.s a dramalic film): A-. (as tin aclioii film): C+ THE TIGER Publication written and edited by -sludenl.s of Little Kock Central High School, 1 SOO S Park St. Little Rock, AR 72202, and printed by Twin City Printing in North Little Rock, Published 25 times during the school year and distributed free of charge to each student and faculty niemirer. Subscriptions available by mail for $10 per year, tiditor in Chief: Michael Woodruff Co-Editors: Amy Swesey & Rachel Wilford Business Manager
Christine Whitson Circulation Manager: Boriana Stefanova Ke]>ortcrs: John Beacliboard, Ryan Davis, Megan Hines, Ralph Jackson, Kristine Jarsina, Erin Owens, Valerie Phillips, Rhea Rushing, Boriana Stefanova, Iercsa 'I'crnaprovich, Will Trice, Christine Whitson Photographer: Holly Hilton and John Beachboard Ad Staff: Anne Brainard, Sarah Wright. ^Vshlcy Latch, Carrie aircadyon Ihc ride gol sick and il gol Brown. Gary Ballard, Ca.ssie all over me and some olher people." Aaron Sampson. 11. I fell off ihc ferris wheel." Cliristi Bujarski, 10. Watching Scania Harris Baldwin. Kcyia Knight, Cora Ray, Ashley Miller, Jiilie Anderson. LintLsey Hicks, Katy Eletchcr, and people throw up." Adviser: Mrs. Kiin Cherry Page 3 ------ Oirtside. TKese. Dooiis By Ralph Jackson Yikes big boy. the Arkansas State Fair has finally arrived! Ever)' year for 10 days in (klolier, the Arkansas Stale Fair comes to town. People from different parts of the state and all walks of life attend the fair to ride the rides or sec the unusual display.s such a.s the two-headed cow. A numlxjr of community clubs mid organizations such as the 4-H club enter compeiiiions mid conicsis dial experiences. also enhance the Centrals AP Scholars announced continued from page 1 possibly earn another AP or above on four or more AP Award include Fletcher Foti Exams wilh an average exam (AP Scholar wilh Dislinciion grade of at least 3.25. Awtird). M.iniia Brantley (AP Scholar with Honor). Michael AP Schohir Award by com- Bishop. Jett McAlister and Eu- plcling three or more AP Exgene Hsu (AP Scholars). Approximately 54 percent of America's graduating seniors '96 Central graduates named have taken one or more AP Exams. The College Board rccog- Drost. Michael Lubansky, Wilnizes several levels of achievement based on the number of Emily Austin. Krystal Eagle, year-long courses and exams. Al Lillie Rock Central High. Two students qualified for gene Fu. Ashley Home, Andrea the AP National Scholar Award -lohnson. Ashlan Reid and by earning grades of 4 or above Kelly Robinson. on cighi or more AP Exams. * Seven siudeni.s qualified for the AP Scholar with Dislinciion Award by etiniing grade.s of 4 or above on eight or more AP Exams. * Six students qualified for the AP Scholar wilh Honor Award by earning grades of 3 S 7 " in Waiting for an autograph. Fans wait to get a glimpse of singer Tori Amos before her October 13 concert at Robinson Auditorium. Josh Clayton Felts was the opening act of the concert. Several Central students attended the event. (Photo by Teresa Ternaprovich) Fund-raiser set for Oct. 26 to benefit Step Up Center "Save Our Youth and Fami-lies." a fashion mid hair showcase fund-raisicr festival, will be held Saturday. Oct. 26 from 6-9 p.in. The event will be held in the gymnasium as ShortcrCollcge. Ticket prices arc for adults mid S5 for children. Proceeds will benefit the "Step Up Center." For details call 517-9761. For those of you who plan on attending ihe fair. I suggest dial you have a substantial amoimi of money on hand because you are definitely going to need it. The forxl is gcxid and the rides
ire fun but imbixly said it wa.s cheap. Due to the recent outbreak of fighi.s al the fair, security has tx:en maximized. During the first five day.s of ihe fair, police have broken up at least iwo major brawls that ap-jxiared to be gmig related. * Nine siudenLs qualified for ams, with grades of 3 or higher. In addition to Brewer, other AP Scholar.s include Qian Wang. Manin Davis, Robert liam Slater, Sarah Adkins, Yasmeen Golzar, Rahshanda Sibley. Howard Cockrill. Eu- Alligators, ducks among students' pets By Boriana Stefanova Students al Central own some rather interesting pels. Alicia Prager, a Central sophomore. owns iwo alligators named Smiley Joe mid Bufford. Each weigh about 15 pounds BESSER ACE HARDWARE 1015 Main St. P.O. Box 2174 Little Rock, AR 72203 AND LAUNDRY 2039 S. University Broadmoor Shopping Center Little Rock. AR 72204 Becky Golleher Young versatile around AAC theatre By Rhea Rushing Randie Young, ti sophomore. ha.s been performing and attending classes al the Arkan-sa. s An Center (AAC) since she was 10. She has perfonned in such main stage pnxiuciions <is Madeline and the GviiKies, Hansel and Greiet. Puss n' Boats. Hardy Boys. Wind in the Willows, mid several others. Young just finished working ai the Adventure of a Bear named Paddington. Rehearsal for this play slaried August 26 mid the show ran from Scpi. 13-30. Her involvement wilh the stage doesn't include just acting. She has also been involved in the Summer Theater Academy. Some of the Restrooms a big issue among students By Kristine Jarsma Ask Central students what their biggest hassle about the school day is and chmicc.s are the answer will have something to do with Centrals bathrooms. Between having most of the facilities locked al any given lime and finding no supplies once you find one open, it's enough to make students complain endlessly. Lack of soap in the restrooms and measure about two feet in length. They are both 1-1/2 years old and Alicia thinks they are incredibly cule. She keeps them in a 50 gallon aquarium and feeds each of them one goldfish a day. Senior Josh McElderry mid his broihcr Jacob, a junior, have a duck. This is their second lime to own a duck and they are having lots of fun raising ii, they said. They also have a dog and a cal. The dog got a hold of their first duck and after that catastrophe, ihe family decided to they wanted another one. The duck.s mime is Quackers. and he is about three and a half years old. They provide him wilh a kiddie ptxil so he cmi swim his days away. 565-3988 Remember Paddington? Sophomore Randie Young performed recently in the Arkansas Arts Center production "The Adventure of a Bear Named Paddington." (Photo by Holly Hilton). classes shes attended in the past few year.s include Voices of Myth, Jack Tales. Shake Scene, and Cartoons. is a serious conceni miiong students and anyone concerned wilh students' healili. School officials have ai-lempied to place liquid soap in the baihroom.s only to have ihe dispensers destroyed within hours of their placcnieni. Lack of toilet paper is another problem. Whai's a siudeni Ixxly to do'.^ Health officials contacted re- 1 I 11 tatand i It whats going)!! in the world today.
^ > \ onTftnTnvtd t Find out 370 - 5081 today.
3E Home: (501) 821-6218 Fax: (501)664-0110 Offke: (501) 664-1775 Ext 480 Donna Morrison Residential Sales Representative ^RectorPhillips Nforse 800 Prospect Building-1501 N. Unh crsily Little Rock. Arkansas 72207 ACAPULCO SUN Where the Sun is Always On and the Tan is Always Hot 111324 Arcade Dr. #20 Rock, AR 72212 October 18,1996 Young has also been an assistant-siage manager, a member of a running crew, and has taught a movement class. cenily said soap is necessarj to rid skin of dead cells and bacteria. They recommend washing hands 10-15 seconds minimum wilh soap after using ihe restroom. Those who don't cmi coniaminaie doorknobs mid any other surface they come into contact with. Communicable diseaecs such as Hepatitis A tire a possible consequence of unwashed hand.s. s' IB. AtAUOn Jon and Kristin Walden (501) 221'9223 Page 4 October 18,1996 Sport'n at Central Rollerblading is a favorite pastime of many teen-agers including senior Philip Rusk. Rusk has been rollerblading for five now. years He By Christine Whitson backward from a handrail jump. In spile of the minor injuries. Rusk slated. Wlial-ever doesnt kill you ligers defeat Conway_Wampus Cats^JL4i8 Game tonight at Catholic High By Ryan Davis Conference clianipionsliip Jones liuring the Ix'ginniiig of skaics some-limes seven it days a week, j iuid on some daysasmuch as 10 hours I straight. Rusk has & allended sev- a era! roller- I blading com- Hanging out. Philip Rusk (right) petitions. His with his brother. awiirds in such contesis makes you stronger." He got his first pair of rollcrblades in seventh grade. He credits John Mitchell as itie source of his inspiration. Rusk enjoys skating because it gives him here we come...? The Central High Tiger football team are on a roll. After a lough loss to North Lillie Rock High Sclux)!, the first half, and a sack by No. 45 Joseph McCrmiey willi one minute left in the half. The fourth (|iianer wound the Tigers delivered a defeal down the game as Jones ran kr last Fridayio the No. 10 a touchdown and two points Wampus Cats of Conway with 10:21 left in the game. High. 14-8. The Wampus Cals allcnipled a Senior Tailback Virgil Jones comeback, scoring a touch-carried the bail 38 times. He Uown and a two-point conver-scored on rums of four yards, three yards and a iwo-poini conversion, in Ceniral's first victory in six years over the AAAA-Ceniral conference title contenders. Sion, but the Tigers prevailed. Siaiisically. the Tigers have won three games and lost three games. The team has won two conference games (against Hall mid Conway) and lost one (agaitLst Nonh Little Rock). Ttinighi ihc Tigers kike on the Catholic High Rockets (away) in conference action. Next Friday. Oct. 25 is Central's homecoming game against Parkview. It will be played al Quigley Stadium. Games l>egin al 7:30 p.m. include winning second place in the half-pipe conipeiiiion twice, mid second place in sired competition. Rusk has had his share of rollerblading injuries. He broke his wrisi after falling a sense of freedom. Rusk said this independence is due 10 not having coaches pushing him. Rusk skaics ai Rollcrspori-s mid on the streets of downtown Lillie Rak. One highlight in the first half I was when a Conway touch- I down pass was deflected as I Tiger senior Amhad McMullen I smacked the ball oui of mid-air I and out of the reach of the I intended receiver. Other high- I lights were an interception by I senior Marcus Yarborough. - the touchdown by senior Virgil , % Tour of buildings hidden locales Continued from nape 1 While Cloud was telling about these rooms, he also gave some interesting facts on the building itself. He reminded us that Central will be 70 years old next year. "And the school only has a handful of cracks." Il wa.s built for strength mid was lo last forever, he stated. "As it grows older, it gets even stronger." The estimated fee to build Central was approximately SI.25 million. Today it needs around S6 million in repairs. Most of the money is needed to waterproof the outside of the building since, according lo ihe building engineer, the school was built on lop of a swmiip. Mr. Cloud said waler i.s consiantly running under the sclifx)!. Mr. Cloud look us tiround the building and opened a few of the doors lo show us where the tunnels are. When we peeked through, we saw pipes running under the school. These pipes arc the cooling mid healing system. Ils pretty much a J) Unlocking doors. Mr. Cloud led two newspaper staffers on a tour of hidden parts of the building. (Photo by Erin Owens). sclf-suslaining sy.sieni." Mr. Cloud stated. Down in the Ixiiler room is where the main healing and cooling systems are. Ils also where the biggest lunnel is. There are five boilers in the complex. The iliree in the boiler room are called affec-lionaiely Falili." Hope, and "Charily." "They produce a lol of heal. The other iwo arc in the gym and in the band area. In addition lo these main units, there mC five sniaiier 50 ion units on the third floor. Launching another bomb? Quarterback Robby Sullenger sends another pass to one of his teammates during last Fridays game Mr. Cloud said there once against the Conway Wampus Cats. (Photo by Anthony Jacuzzi). was a trash cliuie that ran from the fourth floor to the "pit." It made ii easier to take the trash to ihe incinerators. A few years > ago, however, a student carelessly threw a cigarette in it mid it caught on fire. Now wirings for computer mid television systems run through there. Al the other end of the school is another door just like ihe trash chute door. This wa,s a dumb-waiter. It ran from the first floor to the fourth floor. Its purpose was to lake supplies to the other floors for teachers. When its motor burned out. more pipes were put through there. All in ail. taking a lour of Central's hidden passages was truly a memorable experience. Mr. Cloud was a willing, helpful lour guide. 11218 Rodney Parham Little Rock. Arkansas 72212 Tel (501)223-4929 Fax (501)223-2736 r PAWT^ C|f y. The Discount Party Super Store" -I COATS FOR KIDS DRIVE It's easy as 1-2-3: 1) collect outgrown children's coats. 2) Turn in coats to Fashion Park Cleaners. 3) Be proud you helped! All donated coats wilt be cleaned free by Fashion Park Cleaners. The Salvation Army will distribute coats free to children in die area. Beverly Turner Owner Jennifer Jone* Manager ^e. Aztec Sun Tanning Salon 2701 Kavanaugh UttJa Rock, AR 72205 W*Ik-ln> Vlilixm Phone 225-3977 FAMILY DENTAL CARE PHILLIP R. COATES. D.D.S. RICHARD C. TATE. D.D.S. 11327 Arcade Drive Suite 0 Little Rock. Arkansas 72212 ^4 ^5^1I if, is." vi- ' 1 Modeled by Breanne Brakhop and Jennifer Wagner. Photo by Holly Hilton. Let the Professionals at Pinky Punky Dress You for All Your Special Occasions Shop Early and Use Our Layaway!! oo*- RECin frrpor NOV 2 2 (996 LITTLE ROCK CENTRAL HIGH CELEBRATION COMMISSION NOVEMBER 11,1996,4:30 p.m. CENTRAL HIGH SCHOOL, ROOM 218 OffiCQ of Dasosfogaacii iMonr. Ms. Cathy Collins highlighted several concepts to keep in mind throughout the planning of different activities for Central High School. Those concepts are represented by the three Rs: Remembrance, Reconciliation and Recommitment. This Commission will serve as an umbrella for the many activities that will be associated with Central High throughout the year. Activities are designed to focus on a three-day period, from September 24 to 26, 1997. Things to be addressed include, but are not limited to, the following: What is the story? Central High area as part of redevelopment of city Racial problems Difference between present and past ACTIVITY CONCEPT RESPONSIBLE PzkRTY Media tour of the school Pre-September school tours open to all visiting media demand for tours will continually increase...make tours available at specified times, on a regular basis Craig Raines Vicki Saviers, Rudolph Howard, students (with PT SA participants) Visitor Center Opening Central High Museum, Inc. Dinner fundraiser. Nine involve Little Rock Rett Tucker, Gail Reede Jones, Vicki Saviers Parade/March Student Body Assembly event in which all people can participate....end up at CHS bring past and present together ...maybe Whoopi Goldberg is speaker Rev. Hezekiah Stewart, Rev. Chris Keller Local media coverage Skip Rutherford, Sue Ellen Van, Craig Raines Central Open House Media Packet opportunity to tell our story Craig RainesEcumerica Service/Concert Traveling show people expressing themselves musically or through comedy (Robin Williams, Billy Crystal, Whoopi Goldberg) fundraiser with a focus on nine theme...visit nine cities, telling Little Rock Centrals story Artwork, pictures, poems opportunity for expression and involvement Students Commemorative items pins, buttons, t-shirts, etc. to be sold Gail Reede Jones, Skip Rutherford Students Day Baccalaureate speaker pair up current CHS students with 1957 students...one 57 student per classroom big speaker would be nice closure to end the school years celebrations Ideally, the following people would be involved at some point in the celebration: Whoopi Goldberi Jesse Jackson Cornel West g Henry Louis Gates Robin Williams Billy Crystal The Commission discussed the possibility of several groups, including the Racial and Cultural Diversity Commission, NAACP, Chamber of Commerce and others, taking the responsibility to lead celebration activities during a particular month. Fundraising efforts wouldnt have to end after the anniversary date....Central s needs will exist after that date. The Commission needs to have an audience with the PTS A and the student body. The tour of Little Rock Central High has been postponed until the next meeting, which has not been set. However, Ernest Green will be in Little Rock in early December and, if possible, the meeting will be coordinated with his schedule. Attendance List Cathy Collins Eugene Krupitsky Gail Reede Jones Vicki Saviers Fatima McKindra Ann Brown Rett Tucker Judge Wiley Branton Rudolph Howard Johanna Lewis Sue Ellen Van Lori McClainCity of Little Rock Jim Dailey Mayor City Hall. Room 203 500 W. Markham Little Rock, AR 72201-1427 (501)371-4516 FAX (501) 371-4498 RECSVEO COPV November 18, 1996 NOV 2 2 1996 Office of Desegregahcn fiteiofifiy Dear Pastor: I'd Uke to take this opportunity to relay to you a significant event that is in store for greater Little Rock. Thanksgiving Day will have even more significance this year, as aU the churches in Central Arkansas gather to celebrate the reconcihation of races. In the past. Promise Keepers have contributed greatly to reconcihation efforts and I hope this mission will continue. Appropriately, this Reconciliation Day will begin at Little Rock Central High on November 28,1996. This reconcihation event promises to be a highhght for the Christian community, and the reconcihation itself wiU make Thanksgiving even more meaningful. This day wih be the beginning of the celebration events surrounding Little Rock Central that wih unfold in the upcoming year. I'd like to urge you and your congregation to join in the day of celebration. The crowd wih meet at Little Rock Central High School, 1500 S. Park, at 3:00 p.m. and walk to the grounds of Bethel AME Church, 815 W. 16th, where a brief service wih be held and a potluck dinner is shared. Participants may want to take their food to the church before heading to Central. This is an event that we expect to receive media attention, and I hope you wih help make this a positive event and uplifting story. If you have additional questions, please feel free to contact either Tony Minick at 888-6864 or Rev. Hezekiah Stewart at 378-0176. Sincerely, Jim Dailey MayorFlake Tabor Tucker & Ki . 11 rv TCBY Tower. Suite 300 / 425 West Capitol Avenue Z Post Office Box 990 / Little Rock. Arkansas 72203 ! (501) 376-8005 - Telefax (501) 374-9537 MEMO TO: Little Rock Central High Celebration Commission FROM: DATE: Rett Tucker December 19, 1996 DEC 3 0 1996 Office of Desegregation Monitoring Central High School and the 40th anniversary of the 1957 Crisis received heavy emphasis at the 130th Annual Meeting of the Greater Little Rock Chamber of Commerce on Wednesday, December 18: In case you missed it, the Democrat-Gazette article gave a good accounting of the luncheon, which was attended by over one thousand people. A copy of the newspaper article is enclosed. Best wishes to you and your family for a Merry Christmas and a happy, healthy 1997, RT:ca SPECIALISTS IN COMMERCIAL ! INVESTMENT REAL ESTATE / BROKER.AGE ! DEVELOPMENT / LEASING / PROPERTY MANAGEMENT .rkansas Democrat/Gazecte ecember 19, 1996 Chamber Continued from Page 1D terming the states junior senator a true, genuine statesman and the very epitome of class and de- ceiicy in public service. Huckabee also said revitaliza- Lets even embrace it. ________ Tuckers call for cooperation, tion, reformation and reconcilia- not confrontation set the tone for tion were tliree areas of impor- the chamber meeting, whose tance as he and the state faced theme was Big on Greater Little 1997. - Congratulating Little Rock-for Rocks Future. Around 1,000 members and guests attended the doing its part to make Arkansas luncheon program. better, Huckabee mentioned the A Central High visitor center new River Market, conventibn with a world-class exhibit will center expansion, construction at '"wl vt't- ''S'E'c i - S S S 5-Sq373 .2 ej 0) o o CZ3 feiiofi'a Mg's . izi Q S' "y 2 s o - CZ5 o 5 3 P cS * s fe .s 71 Pl Snl-d "s = S ' = C _ (D izi c Ta. tt- 0) -o 75 '-q3"J3-3 Co as . c c 52. w *0 o ca X3 .. . I 1:
^ 4= open next year across from Cen- the Territorial Restoration, hew tral, 'Tucker said, adding that Museum of Science and Histoiy, Huckabee and Little Rock Mayor new public library and other proJim Dailey have declared 1997 jects going on almost simultane- the year of reconciliation. ously along the river and el?e- "Weve learned a lot from 1957 where. .11.. All of these things happened SB c3 - u. yS and since 1957. Weve leamed that confrontation doesnt work
cooperation does,Tucker said. In a climate of cooperation, everyone so incrementally over the course of a year, Huckabee said, that we may not even stop to realize " - Sir G) 4- benefits. what a si^ificant move the nee- Tucker, a principal in the die on'Little Rocks clock has Flake
Tabor, Tucker, Wells and made over the past year. ' Kelley commercial real estate He also said the city and states o "o M S-. ,2 3 e 2? o lO Ci 3 <D Q - S S S Sr >*' E .2 <U cs <U K X! 4 C Ks s I o fee
m 'C P r iaft.v,j iauvi, x uv^vi, mcaxo anvx <D C 2Aggt.Sw . 3 .3 J" a E! 3) ra to-" o .t. 3 a-s = 22 - P S 3 ' r - __ o . J3 S c o " ti TO D 5 e ra CXs .1 44 2 0 S "C o TO. CJ fe fl fe t*-( 0) TO O S 12 5 2' r fe - gg o'^ ^-<3 S? S .2s ra S-g S rS - Err, Cc O " fe >.'feS 22fe!i) 2 2 A Tj-S. 3-S -Qti to r oj > 3 > O s s XJ S' S 2 c O o >3 g-SJ. mg * p-u e H o o 3 a c3 I- o 0) firm, passed the chamber chairmans gavel to Doug Buford, financial partner with the Wright Lindsey & Jennings law firm. With the help of the chamber, wey.e Certaihiy seen cooperation economic future could well depend on our ability to attract (the) emerging retiring market expected by 2010 when the baby-boomer generation begins to retire, kk Those .retirees, he said, repre- work effectively here in Central sent good future markets for real Arkansas, Buford said. He men- estate, professional demands, tinned-the multipurpose River stronger community cultural sup- Project on the Little Rock and port and an increased tax base.. . - ' " "" Buford said the chamber looks <5^to-^S^wTO^ rH y\ 3 'tn 5. <5 -c ^-5 g C S S s - 8'2 3' n .2,c-'2.k^ c.3c23-2 ..gsg^-'SgfeCg >. A CL fe H TO w w CO 3 a, P O o t) ^43 _ C fciT! 242- tU 0. 3 C S 2 O P 5 oj X Js j-Q (t
43 TO 0) T3 03 <1). tjj <D ( to to O w a (C < c co o 6j3iMio<:OS' Ha) North Little Rock sides of the Arkansas River and the Ameri- caFest gala on election night in downtown Little Rock. state legislative session, city infra- That Nov. 5 event was capped structure needs, construction-of by President Clintons second- - the new arena and convention cen- term victory speech beamed ter expansion, the Central High around the world from the visitor center and the long-awail- forward to opportunities on the horizon in 1997, citing the coming ed decision regarding the location grounds of the Old State House. ed decision regarding the location Clinton, on video tape, said the of Clintons presidential library.'
_ . jjg pledged the chambers _________ __________________ support for continued develop tionai standard of excellence ment of the University of Arkah- (and) I look forward to working sas for Medical Sciences and pro- with you in the future.___________posed Interstate 69 which may He also had warm words for his not come though Little Rock, but friend Pryor, who is stepping we sure want it to come through down after nearly four decades of Arkansas,'Buford said, public service, including 18 years awards inthe Senate. Greater Little Rock Chamber of Commerce continues to set a na- Chamber given Wednesday included: ?~ The Small Business of tjfe David has represented our state and our nation with decency. Year Award: Mr. Kleans Carpet honor and distinction, Clinton and Janitorial Service. The William J. Smith Young said. And more than any of you ...,--------- . can ever know, he has been a god- Executive of the Year Award
send to me these last four years. David Bazzel, a television sports Accepting the Pinnacle Award personality instrumental in devel- from Tucker, Pryor thanked the oping the annual Broyles Award
Central Arkansas audience and for the nations top assistant foot- the state for the honor you have ball coach. bestowed upon me, he said. The Ambassador of the Year: This is what it is all about, to Joel Smith, general sales manag- serve the people, and how I have er, Datamax Office Systems. : . ' ' . " Top Chamber Membership giving me the chance. Volunteer Award: Jeanne Wal- Huckabee began his talk by lace. Mercantile Bank. loved it and how I thank you forrece LITTLE ROCK CENTRAL HIGH ANNIVERSARY COMMISSION FEBRUARY 27, 1997 SISTER CITIES CONFERENCE ROOM, CITY HALL MEETING SUMMARY Mr. Rett Tucker introduced Mr. Stacy Williams of the NAACP, Ms. Alma Williams of Entergy, Ms. Annie Abrams of the Central High Neighborhood, Mr. Virgil Miller of Boatmens, Ms. Suellen Vann of the Little Rock School District, and Mr. Tracy Steele of the NAACP, to those in attendance. They will offer an ex-officio perspective to enhance the Commissioners activities. In addition, Ms. Williams planned and coordinated the Little Rock Nines return to Little Rock in 1987. COfvlMlSSION 'S NAME The first issue Mr. Tucker addressed was the Commissions name. Little Rock Central High Celebration Commission. A number of the people in the community feel that the use of the word celebration is inappropriate. Wanting to be sensitive to those concerns, he invited suggestions for an alternative name. Ms. Abrams also addressed the Commissions name, offering the perspective of a resident of the Central High Neighborhood and as a Board member of Central High Museum, Inc. She felt that Central High Museum, Inc.s mission statement and time table should be forwarded to this Commission. They relate to the preservation of the history of this community. Ms. Abrams urged everyone present to look up the following words in the dictionary: celebration, commemoration, and anniversary. Many people have vested interests in the upcoming anniversary of Central. Everyone is entitled to participate, although approaches may differ. She cautioned the Commission to be aware of any other related events that can impact the events the Commission is planning. For instance, planning has begun on the celebration of the anniversary of the building. Rev. Chris Keller felf initially, that celebration was a curious choice. However, he likened it to the use of Good Friday, which is an appropriate paradoxical use of the word. He questioned whether the charge was for the commemoration or the commemoration and celebration. He felt that the scholastic impact Central has had as a secondary school is something of which to be proud and cause for celebration. Judge Wiley Branton, Jr. asked if there were objections to removing the word celebration. There were none. Mr. Williams suggested using the word anniversary, for the use of other words fashions an image in the viewers mind. The anniversary will transpire, regardless of any events that are or are not plarmed. Mr. Craig Rains recommended reviewing the definitions as Ms. Abrams had suggested, allowing those unable to attend to offer input. A decision could be made at a later date. 1Ms. Fatima McKindra offered the notion that the Commission has a charge to address, regardless of its name. Mr. Rudolph Howard noted that anniversary is as accurate as possible, allowing individual perception to further color the experience. The stationery order has been placed on hold until this issue has been resolved. Once resolved, Mr. Tucker will send a letter to the Little Rock Nine. LITTLE ROCK NINE Ms. Williams reported that the Little Rock Nine returned to Little Rock in 1987 for the National Board of Directors Meeting of the NAACP, in addition to the 30th anniversary of the integration of Central. This was the first time, since 1957, that the Nine had collectively returned to Little Rock. At that time, security was the primary concern. Activities were planned in private homes and at the Governors mansion. Ms. Williams questioned the possible prayer activity at Quigley Field, and suggested a church as a substitute location. The Nine were frightened to walk down the halls of Central. Special transportation should be provided for the Nine at planned activities. Ms. Williams reminded the Commission to plan for the Nines travel companions. The City offers its full cooperation for security. The Nine have unofficially pledged to be involved with the students and participate in a fund raiser. The Nine will likely want to know about any sensitivities within the City, to ascertain the existing comfort level. They will want to ask questions such as the extent of minorities involvement in contract processes. Ms. Abrams addressed the fact that the Nine needed to be brought back for more than just a reunion every ten years. Ms. Suellen Van questioned whether or not the Nine would be interested in meeting with other students from 1957. This is something that will have to be discussed with the Nine. Dr. Gail Reede Jones suggested that we speak to all nine to determine in which activities they would be comfortable participating. What do they want? What will they do? What will they not do? What do they want to do? What format is desired for their involvement? Let them participate in the way they want to participate. Mr. Virgil Miller discussed a conference call which he had with three of the Nine, regarding the Central Jffgh Visitors Center and questions surrounding their return. They wanted to know whether they would be talked to, or their opinions would be heard. If this activity truly is for them, they want a chance to speak and be a part of the program. They felt that interaction with the current students is important. Additionally, they wanted to offer input on the exhibit design of the Visitors Center. They urged Mr. Miller to involve the other six after each Central High Museum, Inc. Meeting. It is important that 2the Nine stay informed about what is happening. Ms. Fatima McKindra questioned whether this was just for the Nine, or for others, too. She suggested that if it were not for the others, there would not have been the Nine. Dr.Roosevelt Brown suggested that a skeleton program be planned which is open-ended. Then the Nine could be approached to determine what role they would like to play. The following calendar was tentatively set: Saturday, 9-20-97 Wednesday, 9-24-97 Thursday, 9-25-97 Friday, 9-26-97 Open Visitors Ctr. 10a.m. Community Day Fund Raiser??* (banquet or gala @ Robinson) 6-7 p.m. Visitors Ctr. Dedication Ribbon Cutting 9-10 a.m. Prayer Breakfast Festival/Open House @ CHS Open CHS Doors Pres, speaks on steps 10-1 la.m. Dinner, Gov.s Mansion for Nine and their immediate family CHS Birthday Partv *President's schedule determines date. Students into auditorium 1 la.m. -1 p.m. One-on-one interaction within the building Ip.m,-??? o Fund Raiser??*(banquet or gala @ Robinson) 6 - 7 p.m. Different organizations will be responsible for planning the events outlined above. The following organizations were assigned responsibilities. Event Visitors Center Opening Community Day Festival/Open House, Birthday Celebration Fund Raiser Visitors Center Dedication Opening doors of CHS Prayer Breakfast Responsible Organization Central High Museum, Inc. PTSA, Neighborhood Assoc. LRSD, CHS Little Rock Central High Anniversary Commission Central High Museum, Inc. Little Rock Central High Anniversary Commission and LRSD Rev. Hezekiah Stewart, Rev. Keller, Ministerial Alliance!?) JDinner at the Governors Mansion Governors Office Mr. Rett Tucker announced that the remaining $5,000 - 6,000 left in the account from America Fest is available to the Little Rock Central High Anniversary Commission for upcoming events in September. This Commission will approach the City of Little Rock and the Little Rock School District for seed money. The Commission needs to make about $100,000 from the gala or banquet that is planned. The Commission may consider hiring someone to coordinate the activities. A donation will be made to the Little Rock Nine Foundation, which will be announced at the fund raising event. The C-Span bus will be at Central on March 25, 1997. If consensus has been reached among the Nine regarding the activities, the skeletal outline could be unveiled at that time. A gala at Robinson may be the most successful fund raiser. That would accommodate about j,000 people. Although the big names would be free, first class expenses would have to be paid. Ideally, corporations could be identified to underwrite the event. Ms. Abrams will contact Rev. Jesse Jackson to see if he will attend. Ms. Whoopi Goldberg may be willing to attend. Dr. Jones reported on Mr. Skip Rutherfords commemorative item idea. An artist could be commissioned to produce a commemorative poster, which could be auctioned. Reprints could be sold, and inexpensive posters could be offered, also. The next meeting of the Little Rock Central High Anniversary Commission will be set after contact has been made with the Nine and input has been received. ATTENTION
ANNIE ABRAMS DIRECTORY FOR THE 1957-1958 SCHOOL YEAR WAS TAKEN FROM THE MEETING. IF YOU HAVE THIS DIRECTORY, PLEASE RETUfoSi IT TO HER. Annie Abrams 1925 Wolfe Little Rock, AR 72206 374-3459 Attendance List February 27, 1997 Rett Tucker Stacy Williams Craig Rains Virgil Miller Alma Williams Fatima McKindra Eugene Krupitsky Chris Keller Rudolph Howard Suellen Vann Wiley A. Branton, Jr. Gail Reede Jones Tracy Steele Cathy Collins Annie Abrams Lori McClain 4^7 CENTRAL 500 West Markham, Room 203 Little Rock, AR 72201 (501) 371-4516 Fax(501) 371-4498 s It Daisy Bates, honorary chair u Dr. Gail Reede Jones, co-chair Everett Tucker, III, co-chair e a REC i 3 MEMORANDUM TO: FROM: DATE: Little Rock Central High 40th Anniversary Commission Rett Tucker March 12, 1997 Members: Judge Wiley A. Branion, Jr. Ann S. Brown Dr. Roosevelt Brown Rudolph Howard Rev. Christoph Keller, III Eugene Krupitsky Fatima McKindra Craig Rains Vicki Saviers Rev. Hezekiah Slewart o Our next meeting is scheduled for Wednesday, April 2, 1997 at 4:30 P.M, at City Hall. Enclosed for your records is a tentative schedule of events and a an updated roster of the commission members, including all advisory members. a o b e a a o o e 9 ET:ca x< 9 S LITTLE ROCK CENTRAL HIGH 40TH ANNIVERSARY COMMISSION MEMBERS Dr. Gail Reede Jones, co-chair 9600 Lile Drive Doctors Park, Suite 200 Little Rock, AR 72205 225-9755 225-5858 (fax) Rett Tucker. Co-Chair Flake, Tabor, Tucker, Wells & Kelley 425 W. Capitol, Suite 300 Little Rock, AR 72201 376-8005 374-9537 (fax) Fatima McKindra 2517 S. Izard Little Rock, AR 72206 375-3312 Rev. Hezekiah Stewart Watershed Human & Community Development Agency 3701 Confederate Blvd. Little Rock, AR 72206 378-0176 378-0432 (fax) Eugene Krupitsky 4007 Sam Peck Road Little Rock, AR 72212 225-7222 225-7222 (fax) Craig Rains Craig Rains Public Relations 2020 W. 3rd St. Little Rock, AR 72205 372-3313 372-6650 (fax) Rudolph Howard Central High School 1500 Park St. Little Rock, AR 72202 324-2304 324-2308 (fax) Judge Wiley A. Branton, Jr. #6 Bent Tree Little Rock, AR 72212 340-6700 340-6788 (fax)___________ Dr. Roosevelt Brown 721 E. 21st St. Little Rock, AR 72206 371-0488 375-1318 (fax) Rev. Chris Keller St. Margaret's Episcopal Church 20900 Chenal Parkway Little Rock, AR 72211 821-1311 821-3859 (fax) Vicki Saviers 8 Edgehill Road Little Rock, AR 72207 664-8585 664-7258 (fax) Ann S. Brown Office of Desegregation Monitoring 201 E. Markham, Suite 510 Little Rock, AR 72201 376-6200 371-0100 (fax)ADVISORY: Cathy Collins City of Little Rock Racial and Cultural Diversity Commission 103 W. Capitol Little Rock, AR 72201 374-6452 374-6467 (fax) Sue Ellen Vann Little Rock School District 810 W. Markham Little Rock, AR 72201 324-2020 324-2023 (fax) Skip Rutherford Cranford, Johnson, Robinson, Woods 303 W. Capitol Little Rock, AR 72201 376-6251 376-6045 (fax) Dr. Johanna Miller Lewis Department of History UALR 2801 S. University Little Rock, AR 72201 569-3216 569-3059 (fax) Rex Nelson Governors Office State Capitol Little Rock, AR 72201 682-3606 682-1382 (fax) Lori McClain City Hall Markham & Broadway Little Rock, AR 72201 371-4525 371-4498 (fax) Mayor Jim Dailey City Hall Markham & Broadway Little Rock, AR 72201 371-4516 371-4498 (fax) Bruce Moore City Hall Markham & Broadway Little Rock, AR 72201 371-4791 371-4498 (fax) Tracy Steele MLK Commission 1400 W. Capitol Little Rock, AR 72201 324-9333 Stacy Williams P.O. Box 165473 Little Rock, AR 72216 374-0648 374-0648 (fax) Virgil Miller Boatmens National Bank of Arkansas 200 W. Capitol Little Rock, AR 72201 378-1251 378-1272 (fax) Alma Williams Entergy Arkansas P.O. Box 551 Little Rock, AR 72203-0551 377-3555 377-3559 (fax) Annie Abrams 1925 Wolfe Street Little Rock. AR 72206 374-3459 Leta Jo Anthony Southwestern Bell Telephone Co. 515 W. Pershing, Suite 450 North Little Rock, AR 72114 373-3306 373-3393 (fax)DATE Saturday, September 20 DATE Thursday, September 25 DATE Friday, September 26 40TH ANNIVERSARY COMMISSION TENTATIVE SCHEDULE OF EVENTS TIME EVENT RESPONSIBLE PARTY 10:00 AM 10:00 AM- 1:00 PM 10:00 AM- 1:00 PM TIME 10:00 AM 11:00 AM- 1:00 PM 8:00 PM TIME 7:30 AM 7:00 PM NOTE: THIS IS A TENTATIVE SCHEDULE. Visitor Center Open to Public Community Picnic - Front Lawn School - Open House EVENT Address - President/ Governor/Mayor/ LR9 Representative/ Class of 1958 Rep - Front Steps Interaction with Students - LR 9 - Inside School Fundraising Gala - Robinson Auditorium EVENT Ecumenical Prayer Breakfast - Statehouse Convention Center Private Dinner for LR 9- Governors Mansion Museum Central High PTSA School RESPONSIBLE PARTY Commission School Commission RESPONSIBLE PARTY Commission Commissionc.r CITY OF LITTLE ROCK RECEiVEO MEMORANDUM MAR 2 1 1997 OFFICE OF DESEGREGATION MONITORING TO: LITTLE ROCK CENTRAL HIGH ANNIVERSARY COMMISSION FROM: SUBJECT: MAYOR JEM DAILEY C-SPAN SCHOOL BUS ! MELBA BEALES LECTURE DATE: MARCH 19,1997 On March 25 at 9:30 a.m., I will be joining COMCAST in welcoming students and teachers, who are following the C-SPAN 1997 Majic Bus Civil Rights Tour, to Little Rock Central High School. I would like to invite you to be a part of this exciting event. The C-SPAN School Bus will tour eleven cities to visit and study significant sites of the civil rights movement March 20 through April 3. During this fifteen-day tour, eighteen students and six teachers will travel aboard the Bus and listen to a daily lecture by a figure significant to the civil rights movement. On Tuesday, March 25, the Bus will be at Little Rock Central High School, where Ms. Melba Beales, one of the Little Rock Nine, is scheduled to speak at 10:00 a.m. 03/20/97 13:54 501 324 2023 LRSD COABIUNICATT ODM @002/002 >ate Correction fou are iHyiPed PATTILLO btALS One of Phe LippIe KocL Nine Will peaK aP Cenpral High School Ihesdap, March 25. ap iO:OO am. in Phe andiporinm NOTE.: Since Ms. Beals'presenpapion is parp of a civil riaPPs ponr sponsored bg phe Eisenhower CenPer, PtniversiPg of New Orleans, phe evenp is noP open Po Phe general public.&= RECEIVED .CENTRAL -'If I rm 500 West Markham, Room 203 Little Rock, AR 72201 (501) 371-4516 Fax (501) 371-4498 Daisy Bates, honorary chair 9 e o o MAR 2 ? 1997 OFFICE OF DESEGREGATlOfl MONITORING MEETING ANNOUNCEMENT!! TO: FROM
Central High Anniversary Commission Rett Tuoker Dr. Gail Reede Jones, co-chair Everett Tucker, III, co-chair 4 9 DATE: Maroh 26. 1997 Members: Judge Wiley A. Branton, Jr. Ann S. Brown Dr. Roosevelt Brown Rudolph Howard Rev. Christoph Keller, III Eugene Krupitsky Fatima McKindra Craig Rains Vicki Saviers Rev. Hezekiah Stewart s a 0 c Our next meeting will be held on Wednesday, April 2, at 4:30 P.M. at City Hall. Please make every effort to be in attendance. ET:ca * 0= RECEIVED CENTRAL APR 51997 rm OFFICE OF DESEGREGATION MONITORING IMPORTANT MEETING DATES 500 West Markham, Room 203 Little Rock, AR 72201 (501) 371-4516 Fax (501) 371-4498 ll TO: Central High Museum 40th Anniversary Commission FROM: Rett Tucker Daisy Bates, honorary chair Put DATE: April 8, 1997 Dr. Gail Reede Jones, co-chair Everett Tucker, III, co-chair 9 4 9 Members: Judge Wiley A. Branton, Jr. Ann S. Brown Dr. Roosevelt Brown Rudolph Howard Rev. Christoph Keller, III Eugene Krupitsky Fatima McKindra Craig Rains Vicki Saviers Rev. Hezekiah Stewart 3 We will hold a community forum on Thursday, April 24 at 6:00 P.M. at Central High School. The purpose of the forum is to report on the activities scheduled for the anniversary and receive input from community members about the anniversary and related events. Our next meeting of the commission will be held on Tuesday, April 29 at 4:30 P.M. at City Hall. 9 a o 'a a 4 ET:ca ft 004.22/97 13:49 ODII @002-002 1 501 324 2023 I.RSD COMMIMCATT Liitle Rock School District SeniceMaster to Fund Central Grounds Improvements For Immediate Release April 22, 1997 For more information: Suellen Vann. 324-2020 Central High Schoo] will be in the national spotlight this year as it marks tlie 40"^ anniversary of the schools desegregation and the 70* anniversary of the opening of the current building. In order for the school to present its best face, the grounds of Central High School soon will undergo a major facelift, thanks to a collaborative effort between Serx'iceMaster Education Management Services and the Little Rock School District. ServiceMaster president Richard W, Williams and Little Rock School District superintendent Dr. Don Roberts will announce details of this major venture at a press conference Wednesday, April 23, at 1:30 p.m. on the front steps of Central High School. (In the event of rain, the press conference will be moved into the building foyer.) XiiiiaAOAAA Central High 40th Anniversary Commission Public Forum Thursday, April 24th 6:00 pm at Central High School The Central High 40** Anniversary Commission needs your help in planning meaningful events to take place this September in Little Rock. Please come to express your views! The Central High 40' Anniversary Commission, Central High Museum, Inc., and members of the Citys staff will be presenting information and requesting input from the community at a public forum to take place at Central High. The Central High Anniversary Commission has been working on plans to commemorate the events that took place at Central High School in 1957. Central High Museum, Inc. has plans to open a visitor center in the Central High neighborhood to provide our community and its visitors with a glimpse of the history that took place here in Little Rock. The City of Little Rock will be involved in the clean up and redevelopment efforts in the Central High neighborhood and will help the 40 Anniversary Commission carry out the events being planned for this September. Please come join in the discussion. Thursday, April 24th Central High School 6:00 pmMr. Howard asked about everyone else that played a part in the history and wants to help plan. What about the white community, as well as the black? The desire is to commemorate rather than relive what happened in 1957. The Commission needs to be sensitive to the feelings that still exist. It is the Ms. Anthony suggested that the Commission let the community know they exist, responsibility of Commissioners to be in touch with their community. She noted that the Commission simply needs to have more inclusion in the three days, rather than planning additional events. Mr. Tucker helped summarize the suggestions. The Commission should invite Ms. Anthony and the others she mentioned as new advisory members. Mr. Steel will ask the wishes and type of commitment people are willing to make at the September event. The first place to start is in the neighborhood with a public forum at Central. Mr. Moore noted that the public forum needs to be framed so it is not a rehashing of what happened in 1957, but to get constructive ideas for the Commission. The following dates will be considered for the public forum at Central High School. Thursday, April 24, 1997 (first choice) or Tuesday, April 22, 1997 (second choice). At the public forum the City, Commission and the Museum will give a presentation. Following presentations, the floor will be open for discussion. The City will produce the flyer to advertise the public forum. Ms. Anthony thought it might be a good idea'to get some sound bytes for the news and radio to start publicizing the Anniversary. The City is wilhng to put together something to air on Channel 11. The next Commission meeting will be held Tuesday, April 29, 1997 at 4:30 p.m. in the Sister Cities Conference Room. Ms. Annie Abrams directory for the 1957-1958 school year still has not been returned. If you forward the directory to Lori McClain, it can be sent to Ms. Abrams anonymously. Lori McClain City Hall, Room 203 500 W. Markham Little Rock, AR 72201 371-4525 Attendance List April 2, 1997 Suellen Vann Eugene Krupitsky Aim Brown Johanna Miller Lewis Ron Lanoue Fatima McKindra Vicki Saviers Rudolph Howard Chris Keller Gail Reede Jones Mayor Jim Dailey Cy Carney Melissa Bridges Bruce Moore Judge Wiley Brandon, Jr. Leta Anthony Tracy Steele Lori McClain 5RECSV LITTLE ROCK CENTRAL HIGH ANNIVERSARY COMMISSION APRIL 2,1997 SISTER CITIES CONFERENCE ROOM, CH Y HALL MEETING SUMMARY APR b ibyz OFIGEOF desegregation monitoring 0 Or:' > in/ Co-chair Rett Tucker opened the meeting and invited Mayor Jim Dailey to address the Citys involvement in the Central High area. Mayor Dailey thanked the Commission for its commitment and urged everyone to keep up the good work. He reported that efforts were ongoing to try to identify dollars for the renovation of Central High School and accompanying neighborhood initiatives. The Mayor noted that Central has been the theme of the Citys message, or linchpin, toward becoming a globally competitive, mid-sized City addressing revitalization, education, technology and other issues. Mr. Tucker expressed the need for a clean up and paint up in Central High Schools immediate neighborhood. He asked what could be done to assist. Mayor Dailey reported that Mr. Bill Gothard, founder of the Institute of Basic Life Principles has a Youth Team that is very interested in assisting in the Central High area. They would be willing to repair, clean, paint, and landscape identified properties in July. The City would need to identify houses and contribute the needed paint and landscaping materials. Mr. Rudolph Howard noted that the annual spruce up of the Central High grounds is scheduled for April 12, 1997. Mr. Eugene Krupitsky suggested that various clubs and organizations within the school could spruce up particular areas as part of their service projects. Mr. Howard asked that the various parties interested in participating coordinate with him at Central so that plans will complement those of Building Maintenance. Mr. Tucker identified three other areas needing attention: 1. Signage
2. Security: 3. Coordination: pointing to CHS and the Visitors Center (The Highway Department does not install that type of sign. However, the Governor has asked the Highway Department to reconsider their decision not to install such signs). Two plans (1if the President attends 2if the President does not attend) should be drafted. Mr. Barry Travis of the Convention and Visitors Bureau should be involved. Mayor Dailey reported that Mr. Cy Carney will be the Citys point person. Mr. Tracy Steele suggested the use of AmeriCorps grants, used in 6-week increments. Mr. Steele agreed to serve on the Clean Up Task Force that wiU be created to relay that information to the O' 1appropriate people. NCCJ INVOLVEMENT Mr. Tucker introduced Mr. Ron Lanoue, the Executive Director of the Arkansas Chapter of the National Conference of Christians and Jews. He envisions the NCCJ national chapter hosting a 1 16 day activity, including an evening meal and a major speaker, a press conference, and interactive workshops examining the promise and reality of desegregated education. Mr. Lanoue expressed his desire to avoid competition with the Anniversary Commission. Due to religious constraints, they will not plan anything after sundown on Friday night. The NCCJ national representatives will begin identifying major national dollars to fund these events. Mr. Lanoue reported skepticism regarding Little Rocks ability to pull off events of this magnitude. His desire is to dispel this notion, relying on cooperation of local groups to make this a reality. Coordination of the event offers this community the opportunity to set aside any hostilities and work with its neighbors. All meetings, with the exception of the VIP opening night reception, hosted by the NCCJ will be open to the public. Mr. Lanoue would like the NCCJ sessions to follow the Presidents address. This would enable the workshops to incorporate speakers comments as part of the discussions. Friday afternoon is open, and the NCCJ might conclude with dinner on Saturday. A representative of the National NCCJ Office will visit Little Rock mid-April. Mr. Tucker suggested convening a meeting at that time. The Commission pledged to keep Mr. Lanoue involved and would add him to its advisory list. Ms. Vicki Saviers questioned when the Race for the Cure was scheduled. That race is scheduled for Saturday, September 27, 1997 at 8:00 a.m. The participants should be finished by approximately 10:30 a.m. There is also a Razorback football game scheduled for that date. Dr. Johanna Miller Lewis requested that the Little Rock experience be incorporated in the workshops. She felt that Little Rock would make an excellent textbook case study. CENTRAL HIGH NEIGHBORHOOD IMPROVEMENTS Assistant City Manager Cy Carney reported the Citys plans, to date, addressing the Central High Neighborhood. The primary focus will be the 2-block radius surrounding CHS. This four-month plan will begin May 1 and address the following: housing stock/commercial buildings public right-of-way (curbs/sidewalks/street repairs) improvements (landscaping, tree corridors, etc.) The secondary focus will be the 6-block radius and major corridors to Central. The Public Works Department will perform a windshield inventory to identify specific needs within the parameters. Mr. Carney will forward a monthly report to the Commission. Any information regarding the proposed plan or additional concerns should be faxed to Mr. Carney at 371-4498. Noting that this is an ambitious plan, Mr. Carney agreed to work with the Neighborhood Associations in that area and have them prioritize their needs. 2On April 14th at 6:00 p.m., the Little Rock Board of Directors will meet with the School Board. The Citys improvement plan will be placed on the agenda for joint discussion. Mr. Tracy Steele asked what the Commissions stance would be regarding the notion that we are doing in four months what should have been done years ago. The Commission felt that this effort was long overdue. Ms. Ann Brown asked if maintenance would go on after the September Anniversary. Mr. Bruce Moore, Assistant to the Mayor, distributed Central folders which represent a comprehensive plan to restore the whole area. The Mayor is using Central as a selling point to get grant monies for needed projects. Ms. Brown suggested that partnerships with the local people could ensure the maintenance does continue. It would be beneficial for someone to organize an adopt-a-site program. Mr. Camey reported that the City offers grants up to $1,500 for fix-up and paint-up projects through the Neighborhood Enhancement program. This program is offered throughout the year, as funds are available, by the Department of Housing and Neighborhoods. Ms. Suellen Vann will contact the national media about upcoming events. Mr. Howard felt it was important to put something on the calendar and invite the community to participate. Ms. Annie Abrams was unable to attend todays meeting, but she relayed the information she had gathered. Rev. Jesse Jacksons scheduling secretary has been notified of the skeleton time frame. However, the who? what? when? where? is needed before a commitment can be secured. The Commission might want to consider having Rev. Jackson as the prayer breakfast speaker. Ms. Abrams also contacted Mr. Jesse Jackson, Jr.s scheduling secretary to determine his availabihty, as an alternate, if his father could not attend. Mr. Tucker reported that Mr. Ernest Green will follow up with Rev. Jackson as well. ANNIVERSARY FOCUS Ms. Leta Anthony, President of the Leadership Roundtable, inquired about the focus of the celebration. She felt the Commission needed to involve the community more, talking to the people to let them know what is being done. Ms. Anthony sees and hears no support for the Anmversary in the African American community. People she has spoken to are insulted by the tentative agenda set by the Commission, suggesting that the community, state and nation were impacted by the events of 1957, rather than just the people at Central. The community knows nothing about the plans being made by the Commission . And the community strength is what gave the nine children the strength to do what had to be done. The Commission has the opportunity to do great things, if they will involve the community. The outreach needs to begin in the neighborhoods with the people that are already there. Public forums need to be held to get the communitys input. The churches should be involved in the process. The history of the people is being left out. Judge Wiley Branton, Jr. reported that the Commission is trying to do the right thing, but they are also trying to get something done. If too many people get involved, it jams the process. 3Ms. Anthony felt that some of the things on the agenda are good. The prayer breakfast is a good idea, but it needs to be in a church. Ms. Daisy Bates needs to be included. It seems like Central students are the only benefactors to the events. Why hasnt a march been included as part of the events? Could some sort of printed chronology of the events that lead up to and surround the Crisis in 1957 be made available to the public? Although the chronological exhibits will be at the museum, not everyone will be able to see the museum. Judge Brandon noted that the whole anniversary is being planned around trying to involve the Nine. Mr. Tucker added that the Commission is trying to do a few things, so they can be done well. Mr. Howard asked if people would come to share their ideas if a public forum was held. How do you go about involving everyone? Ms. Anthony was glad to see that the Commission has the concern, but still does not see the outreach. People in the community are willing to make things happen if you will ask them for help. Dr. Gail Reede Jones would like to see an expansion of the learning process beyond a week in September. This could include events in schools throughout the year and events in the churches. This type of learning could bring more inclusion. But the Anniversary events are planned around the limited time of the Nine and the President. Their time took precedent as well as their security. Ms. Anthony stated that -where the events are held causes the exclusion, not the event itself. The focus needs to be on the quality and the history of the people involved. Judge Brandon expressed the Commissions desire to have Ms. Anthonys ongoing participation in the Commission and the planning. Rev. Chris Keller responded that the building is not the focus. The courage and the will of the African American community is bing celebrated. Maybe the prayer breakfast could be turned into a service of thanksgiving. Mr. Steele suggested mailing a survey to the people in the area, if a public forum could not be done. If a survey was mailed. Dr. Jones requested the priorities of the Nine and the President and their security be remembered. Ms. Anthony noted that the Anniversary can happen if the people are included. Security can be worked out with creativity. Rev. Keller asked Ms. Anthony to identify the key people that needed to be involved from the churches. She responded that people would show up at the churches if a time and place are set. People to call on for help would include: Stacy Williams (cunently an advisory member of Commission), Ron Wood, Reverend William Robinson of the Ministerial Alliance, and the Black Retired Teachers Association. Dr. Jones asked if the Leadership Roundtable had made any plans for the 40th Anniversary in 1997. Ms. Anthony reported that it had been discussed about a year ago, but nofurther action had been taken. 4ROM FTTlslK MANRGEMENl- INC 501 '4 9537 1997,04-29 10:57 #511 P.01 I - 0106 BrOivA Sow (i ti__......................Ilv H:OU. Lr i 5.J. tl 4iu.-lW ) 7 ... ... I>...^ll I-*-* ....\^UK^__.lkOwli_iiu, ___ !* . . f i) IS V ....i^S-Z..1 1^57 1 4 V^VxjAt___tU't. VsM, . .. 7 ...................................TTWK MANAGEneNT INC 1 I : 501 374 9537 1997>06-03 15:06 4323 P.03/03 P . 02 I Reconciliation Banquet 97 P.O.Box3 LiakKocl>,^VR 72.203-0003 Otkee: {501)663-0300 }'<iku'501)663-0390 A Milestn Evsjst May 23. 1997 ..OitM.liis.fi
to - Jc Rock, AR Goi b
SSS You, Thtare is much excitement in our taphol city and It Is intfi9i&tn|[! jRiine ?, et 7o FM Little Rock is getting pietty stirred up arid the saints are rejoicing in seeing how tt>e Ixjfd's prayer tn John 17 Is being fulllJIed. ''Xs see UNITY being exempHlied all over this city . It Js spreading like a wild fire! *1 J On June 7fh, Mierc will be a Ceiebtatlon of Reconcliiatioir Banquet. .Saints ars responding wtfn desire tp.Jtie a.p6n. Its purpose. Christians "onung 'ogether to celebrate the fact ftttd U> dejnanstrate the act of i r co .-(Ci bation nfi seen In Ephesian.s 2:11 -22 Is adiirig to tlie exJulAratJon that i .c-my rme eitpreasing. It is gOJlg to be ar. .awesome everjingi banvtn^ajj at Roktotoa Ctitttet !tfRr*Lhtn (4 ttM*4^asr Utth E<sk. A It is our earnest prayfrr and Sestre that evetyvhe Irt .attertdance, {Governor Mike Hiickabec-one ofUje speak.ers. U.S. Senator Tim Hutchinson. Mayor Jim Dallev, several prominent ministers, buslneas people, and the diversity of the Body of Christ) wlii depart from Uil-s banquet ^ving gloiy to God for the ONEMCSiS that we will eXpejieneejtfi&t night.. 4 . ?.rroal Attire Tlcfewt Price CK.t2liK.STtOH (UCaNCtirl A CION Ot*B tn rac irvj^p<T* sit 1 IW rBK iCJIV W' HOCK Our Lfjfd's prayer in John 17 regarding us being one with Him and His lather and one with one anotbi* Is becorrdng more and ttiOfe ot a reality. The world :_______ :: h vt .tbat 'Gbd h^is sent His Son as they behold the order of the church In ' ''Wlhg forth rSj'.s ONENESS ta going to know and I * Enclosed .speclsii p*- felk)w.sh.ij either to G fh/er foritlyis eyent that we trust will, inspire you. and these in your life (6.Want to be -> part ot this ^orlous nlgh^i of vou are avt^me.^ot anyone who.is in. heed ot being reconciled, to people, this would be lust the went to encourage them to 1-.,..11.. r' +-.-Vs ftl-ir'A* on tlyV*2 rk'CSHt* Jf att?nd. A jot of he.pJtig and reatoring will take place on this night! We kKik fopvard to recejxsng your request for tickets. And 11 80, we would appreciate you us a bail at 501 -663-0300 beuveen 8 .00 am - 5:00 pm or h'63-O4CiO .-iner 5 p.m. Tlie' t'.frre for tfie Rimquet is upon ue and by May 30th, we mu.st give a coont iTir tire nurnberof dinners to be aerved. For Hitt Cfio
-v end Our GockI, .Slsle: ar hm Smith Mijrilstry oi Kelps ci
Ft - Conrnlttee F^pizir,' FVFTWK MRNRGEt-eNT INC 501 374 9537 1997,06-03 15 5 06 #3'23 P. 02/03 p. a 1 1 1 : 3 r FAX FOinBR SHEET l/OfH TO: Mr. Tucker / 374-9557 f'J/J FROM: Carolyn Smith /off
663-030t) * (&:x:6b3-039(i Reconciliation Banquet Committee Totai pageS/ mdudiug cover: d S-ieast Reply .AS-fW Thanks for allowing me to .''hare this infonnation with Ct.TMMl-NTS. vou. Hope that you or some of the others are .able to attend.JUN 5)397 LITTLE ROCK CENTRAL HIGH ANNIVERSARY COMMISSION MAY 28, 1997 SISTER CITIES CONFERENCE ROOM MEETING SUMMARY OFFICE Or WHESAWNMOI^IlUUlj^jy C/TTASS/STANCE Mr. Guy Lowes reviewed the Citys plans for a cleanup in the Central High area. He stated that some of the work has already started. The Solid Waste Division has taken roll-off dumpsters to the area and will continue to haul off the debris placed in them. Mr. Lowes also stated that inspections of the area will be ongoing. Mr. Cy Carney noted that this area will receive a high level of attention this summer. Mr. Lowes added that the City will work on the sidewalks, curbing and handicap ramps in the area around the school. He noted that the City will also provide more signage to the school and the Visitor Center as part of their effort. Mr. Lowes presented a work order sheet that the Public Works Department is working from and suggested that the neighborhood association be contacted to help point out other areas that need attention. Mr. Craig Rains asked if attention will be given to the access roads that lead to Central. In particular, he asked about 10th and 12th Streets coming from Woodrow. Mayor Dailey responded that those roads, along with 14th Street from 630, and Park Street from Capitol need to be as clean as possible. Mr. Lowes added that is why the roil-off dumpsters have been put in place now, so that as much debris as possible can be removed from the area. Mr. Rett Tucker announced that Ms. Alma Williams has agreed to serve as the coordinator for the Commission. Mr. Tim Polk discussed the housing plan for the area. He pointed out a three block radius that will be the area of concentration by the City. Within this area the City will board up the abandoned houses and paint the facades. Houses that can be demolished in time for the September events will also be taken care of by the City. Code enforcement action will be taken to ensure that grass is cut and abandoned cars are towed away. Mayor Dailey noted that a Central High charette is planned for June 14th and the agenda should include the cleanup and a discussion of the planned events. He also announced that Nation s Bank is willing to put money into the Central High area for improvements and housing projects. Mr. Tucker announced that he and Mr. Virgil Miller met with the Nine in Washington at the NAACP awards and they are all excited about the events being planned in September. Mr. Tucker also noted that a Media Committee has been formed with Mr. Rains serving as its chair. Mr. Rains stated that he will need 8-10 people to serve on the committee. It will serve as a source of information for the media, both local and national. He has asked Mr. Skip Rutherford to be the 1"point" person for the media. Mr. Rains noted that the committee should be both reactive and proactive in its approach to the media. The committee will put together a press kit for the media that will include a fact sheet about Central High School, Little Rock, and the State. Mr. Rett Tucker suggested inviting Ms. Valerie Dawson of COMCAST to serve on this committee. Mr. Bryan Day stated that the Parks and Recreation department will work with the neighborhood association in the area on the forestry plan and will plant some trees and also help clean up the existing greenery. Mr. Polk added that an initial survey of the area has been completed and this will help identify the areas of concentration. Mr. Day noted that the Parks Department is also willing to work on the design of banners to be hung in the area, or around town, announcing the Anniversary. Mr. Tucker asked about the possibility of permanent signs directing trafiic to the school and Visitor Center on Woodrow, Martin Luther King, and 14th Street. Mr. Rains also inquired about a sign on 630. Mr. Tucker spoke with the Presidents staff and he is very optimistic about the President attending. He added that Mr. Rutherford and Mr. Barry Travis are speaking to American Airlines regarding free airfare for the Nine and their traveling companions. Dr. Don Roberts stated that he will speak to Mr. Doug Eaton regarding the sidewalks surrounding the school. Dr. Roberts added that he will also speak to the School Board about no school at CHS on the day of the anniversary and the possibility of no school at the other high schools in the City. He will also check into the use of school buses for transportation to Central. Ms. Fatima McKindra announced that several student clubs at Central are willing to help in any way they can. Mr. Rudolph Howard added that his biggest concern continues to be security at Central. COMMISSION UP DA TE Mr. Tucker excused the City staff and the Commissioners proceeded with the remainder of their meeting. Ms. Alma Williams stated that she needs to be updated by the Commission. She asked where we are in terms of planning. Ms. Ann Brown summarized the events at the two community forums that were held by the Commission. Ms. Williams noted that the anniversary is in September and that is a short time frame. She summarized what she felt the Commissions purpose was. She feels it is the Commissions job to coordinate events and give some kind of approval as the ideas of others come before the group. Ms. Vicki Saviers stated that the Commission will be responsible for a master calender of events and will give its approval to the ideas presented by the community. She also noted that some events will be planned and carried out without the Commissions knowledge. Ms. Williams asked if the number 2of events will be limited. Mr. Tucker reviewed the Commissions tentative schedule of events for Ms. Williams. He also noted the NCCJ conference and Ms. Betsy Jacoways history conference that are being planned. Ms. Saivers added that the Commission should e?rtend an official invitation to all to be involved. Ms. Brown noted that a balance should be maintained by the events that will be held. Mr. Rains added that people may ask to be included on the schedule and cant. Mr. Tucker stated that the Nine cannot be run ragged. Ms. Ann Brown suggested that the Commission needs to develop criteria for giving an event its approval. Ms. Saviers stated that an invitation needs to go out to all those involved in the Crisis in 1957. Ms. Leta Anthony added that a list of people that played a role should be compiled. Ms. Saviers then suggested making a public plea for those people to come forward. Ms. Wilhams responded that the Commissioners should touch base with the key people they know and get as many people involved that way. Mr. Rains added that the past teachers and students should be included. Ms. Anthony suggested sending a special invitation of recognition to that group. Mr. Tucker asked when the next meeting should be held. Mr. Rains noted that the deadline for information to be included in the press kits is June 10th and they should be approved by June 12th. Ms. Williams suggested the Commission announce its schedule and then mail out the press kits. Nir. Tucker agreed that a press conference announcing the tentative schedule should be held prior to the mailing out of the press kits. The next Commission meeting will be held Wednesday, June 11,1997 at 4:30pm in the Sister Cities Conference Room. Attendance List May 28th, 1997 Alma Williams Eugene Kurpitsky Fatima McKindra Rudolph Howard Valerie Dawson Mayor Dailey Craig Rains Cy Camey Bryan Day Tim Polk Guy Lowes Leta Anthony Vicki Saviers Ann Brown Leta Anthony Vicki Saviers Ann Brown Rett Tucker Dr. Don Roberts Melissa Bridges J MRNAGEMENT INC I 500 West M, .f'ain RoOiTi 003 Li'.Sa Pci.K. AR '2201 (SOU 37I-4S1? Fax (SOI) ' 14'38 501 374 9537 1997,06-12 M E M C) R A N D U M 16:56 #59S P.02/02 Daisy Sates, ncnotary cl'3.'r Df C.. Peecu J'jGSt cs-c Evete.iT'.Wcr, IH, to-onaif ,T cki,' ye!~i
'5r5 ji rljR eZiie,' A E
'ar^-c_ Jr Af "' S 'J' -.to: -tin :r I ?e7 Fu3,-eK-.( n'.i'nj W. * Crai3 Rs .rs Vi
< Savort Rev, 'lerarah Stswa-i TO: J'ROxM: D.ATE: CoE-UUSsiou N-iembers Ren Tncke- June 12, :'?9~ We received coitfirmation from the White House today that President Clinton will be with 05 at Central Hjgh School on Thursday, Sepitember 25. Me plans to wake a major civil rights addie and parricipaie in die aay actn'icies. The ^kTute House has given ns permission to make litis announcetrew and I wanted vou to know about it. ET
ca 0 CENTRAL H - rm 4 W received JUN ) 9 ,997 nrn MEMORANDUM 500 West Markham, Room 203 Little Rock, AR 72201 (501) 371-4516 Fax (501) 371-4498 o TO: Commission Members Daisy Bates, honorary chair 0 FROM: Rett Tucker ztb Dr. Gail Reede Jones, co-chair Everett Tucker, 111, co-chair e DATE: June 17,1997 Members: Judge Wiley A. Branton, Jr. Ann S. Brown Dr. Roosevelt Brown Rudolph Howard Rev. Christoph Keller, III Eugene Krupitsky Fatima McKindra Craig Rains Vicki Saviers Rev. Hezekiah Stewart NEXT MEETING: WEDNESDAY, JULY 2,1997 AT 4:30 P.M. AT CITY HALL. & Enclosed is a copy of our Preliminary Calendar of Events, which was released last Friday to the Arkansas Democrat-Gazette. Also enclosed is a copy of the newspaper article announcing President Clintons intention to be here in September. ft- s ET:ca EnclosuresLITTLE ROCK CENTRAL HIGH 40TH ANNIVERSARY COMMISSION PRELIMINARY CALENDAR OF EVENTS Saturday, September 20.10:00 A.M.. 14th and Park Central High Visitor Center Opening with Governor Mike Huckabee and Mayor Jim Dailey (contact: Rett Tucker, President, Central High Museum, Inc., 501-376-8005) Beginning Saturday and continuing throughout the week, the Visitor Center will host signing ceremonies featuring the following: Civil rights leader Daisy Bates, signing copies of her book. The Long Shadow of Little Rock. Little Rock Nine member Melba Patillo Beals, signing copies of her book. Warriors Dont Cry. Photographer Will Counts, signing copies of his historic photographs taken during the 1957 Crisis, Little Rock Nine member Ernest Green, signing copies of the Disney movie, The Ernest Green Story. Pat Murphy, son of Womens Emergency Committee founder Sara Murphy, signing copies of their book. Breaking the Silence. Biographer Roy Reed, signing copies of his book, Faubus. Visitor Center Hours: Monday - Saturday, 10:00 A.M. - 4:00 P.M. Sunday, 1:00 P.M. -4:00 P.M. Saturday, September 20,11:00 A.M. - 2:00 P.M. Open House at Central High School, 14th and Park, (tours available) (contact: Vicki Saviers, President, Central High PTSA, 501-664-8585, Rudolph Howard, Principal, Central High School, 501-324-2300 or Fatima McKindra, President, Central High Student Body, 501-375-3312).Weekend of Sunday. September 21 Reconciliation Prayer Ail Little Rock churches and synagogues will be asked to pray for reconciliation within our city. A prayer of reconciliation will be provided to every church in Little F^ock (contact: Rev. Hezekiah Stewart, 501-378-0176 or Rev. Chris Keller, 501-821-5583). Tuesday, September 23.11:30 A.M.. Doubletree Hotel Weekly program, Little Rock Rotary Club Speaker: Little Rock Nine Member Ernest Green (contact: Mark Saviers, Program Chairman, Little Rock Rotary Club, 501-663-3325). Wednesday, September 24. time to be determined. Excelsior Hotel News conference with Little Rock Nine. (contact: Alma Williams, Executive Coordinator, Little Rock Central High 40th Anniversary Commission, 501-312-1190), Thursday, September 25. time to be determined. Central High School President Bill Clinton, Governor Mike Huckabee, Mayor Jim Dailey and the Little Rock Nine will take part in a program commemorating the 40th anniversary of the court ordered entrance of the students into Central under the protection of federal troops. (contact: Rett Tucker, Co-Chair, Little Rock Central High 40th Anniversary Commission, 501-376-8005, Gail Reede Jones, Co-Chair, Little Rock Central High 40th Anniversary Commission, 501-225-9755, Alma Williams, 501-312-1190, Rudolph Howard, 501-324-2300 or Suellen Vann, Little Rock School District, Director of Communications, 501-324-2020). Thursday, September 25. 5:30 P.M. - 7:30 P.M.. Excelsior Hotel Reception honoring Daisy Bates and the Little Rock Nine. (contact: Rett Tucker, 501-376-8005, Gail Reede Jones, 501-227-9755 or Alma Williams, 501-312-1190). Thursday, September 25 through Saturday. September 27, times and place to be determined History symposium, Remembrance and Reconciliation: Understanding the Little Rock Crisis of 1957. (contact: Dr. C. Fred Williams
Director of Center for Arkansas Studies, UALR, 501-569-8782). Friday, September 26 and Saturday. September 27. times and place to be determined Civil rights conference, Education and the Construction of an Inclusive United States, sponsored by the National Conference of Christians and Jews. (contact: Ron Lanoue, Executive Director, NCCJ, Arkansas Region, 501-372-5129).Saturday, September 27, 1:00 P.M. - 3:00 P.M.. Central High School 70th birthday party A birthday party celebrating the 70th Anniversary of the building called, Americas Most Beautiful High School when it opened in 1927. All former students are invited, (contact: Craig Rains, Little Rock Central High 40th Anniversary Commission, 501-372-3313). Saturday, September 20 through Saturday. September 27. Arkansas Arts Center, McArthur Park Central High 1957 and 1997
Photographs by Will Counts. (contact: Ruth Pasquine, Curator of Art, Arkansas Arts Center, 501-396-0325). Arkansas Arts Center Hours: Monday - Thursday, Saturday, 10:00 A.M. - 5:00 P.M. Friday, 10:00 A.M. -8:30 P.M. Sunday, 12 noon - 5:00 P.M. Saturday, September 20 through Saturday. September 27, State Capitol Rotunda ({' The Finest High School for Negro Boys and Girls: Dunbar High School in Little Rock, Arkansas, 1929-1955". This exhibit was created by the National Dunbar History Project, a collaboration of the National Dunbar Alumni Association and the University of Arkansas at Little Rock. (contact: Dr. Johanna Miller Lewis, Associate Professor of Public History, UALR, 501-569-3216). Exhibit Hours: Saturday and Sunday, 10:00 A.M. - 5:00 P.M. Monday - Friday, 8:00 A.M. - 6:00 P.M.I Arkansas SATURDAY, JUNE 14.-1997 ...:... | AAansas Democrat Clinton to atteid Central integration anniversary bV DANN^ sMAm^R , Clinton named a seven-member Chief of Staff Sylvia Matthews comments - not a lot s-that we schedule of events to mart the Little Rock Nine member Melba ,ARKAiASDwa^T-pA2EitE. ,'-advisory board Thiirsday to ana- said
. shouldnt try to dp this. But my 40lh anniversary, - _ Patillo Beals, ^o wrote a-book, . President Clinton plans to be at lyze dato and offer guidance as the The nine students who desegre^ generation, and people who have 'The week-long event Mins WomoraDon^Ory. / Central High School op SeptiiSS, bresideht stiihs what he hopes gaUd the school will join Clinton come after,.feel that what hap- wito the opening of a Central B Photograph Will ^nU. who toe m SivereW df Wih^^^ dialogue on arid Gov. Mike Huckabee at the pened in 1957 wont go away, and visitors centor in ajomer gas sto- will si^ copies of his histoi^ ph(> . . . . . :-i- .-.X-. .. i' xv .. s . Central High campus. As part of a Tone way to deal with it'is to bring tion across the street from , the tographstakendunngthel957.cri- prb^m, the president will make back the players and have a mtise- school. sis. The Arkansas Arts CenterMll a fech on race relations, said urn. Beginning at 10 a.m. that day also feature an exhibit pal ed Rett Tucker, co-chairman of the "It can be somethiiig we learn. and continuing through toe week, "Central High 1^7 and . LiltleRock Central High 40to An-- from, as we move fohvard togeth- the visitor center will hold a senes tographs by Will Counts, that will As part of that effort, Clinton iiivereary Commission. , ,:
er. Eveiydne recognize^ that we of signing ceremonies that will in- beon di^lay ' ____ __ ,_______,. SnplnaltenT w^S whal topTened It CbntraVtoSlS S xpeecl.afIbeU.iivcmilyotCaliror'
events-such as Um Cental Ilish gave Ijttle Rock a black eye,''., .tohi the past-' f. 1 author efna.Im.flStelew of Wk Disney Movie hia's San Diego campus. observance, White House Depu^ Tucker said. .Tye heard some . j Tucker released a preliplnaiy Rock. , . See CUNTON, Pago 7B ,ARKA(ASI (AT-0A2ETm'. Clinton named a seven-member advisory board Thursday to ana- . lyze data and, offer guidance as the jWhat he hopes ______... ahnivers-aiy of the-.day. Will be a hatibhal dialogue on nine black students ehtered'.toe.'- racgi , i --"3 escorted by , . federal - 'flib initiative will ultimately fd- i, a White House official edh-^ '"pUs on solutiM for bridging racial ..xiiiedFrid^
. gaps tiiYdughftiit^pciety, officials The appearance will be pSrt of said. ' : _ campus year-long initiative 'on improving race relations in America that begins today witli thfe pr^idehls speecli at the University of Califor- For many people of that era, " what happened at Central ip 1957 , ' gave Ijttle eye,..- Rock a black eye, X. Ar / I hap- B Photographer i- somethifig/we- nove fohvard ,t(
learn, and from, as we move fohVard .togeth- :er. recognizes "have made progress, hut \ve ptijl "have room to grow. We.can Jeam from the past" J Ir? Tucker released a preliniinary ______ __S_ elude: from Sept 20-27. Little Rock Nine member ':C'onllnued'from Pago IB Story. fl Pat Murphy, son of Women's haven't been set A histbiy symposium. -Renie&. brance and ftecohciliatidh
Ilndejx^ standing the Little Rock Grisisipf.? 1957," isscheduVed .for Sept. 25i7:
. though the lime and the place': Emergency Committee founder And organizers have put togefe Sara:Murphy, who will sign .copies er a civil rightsconferenee, of their book, B>dlctng the Silence. cation and the Construction of an H Biographer Roy Reed, signing Inclusive United States, sched- copies of his book, Faubus. uled for Sept 26-27 at a time ancT
The center's hours will be 10. jilace to be determined. The Na-?, Committee founder a.mA p.m.. Monday-Satuiday, andl tionai Conference of Christians 4 p.m. Sunday. ' Also on Sept 20, the public may visit Central High: from 11 a.m.-2 Jews Arkansas-Region is ingit On Sept. 27,'a birthday party c^-. liisi p.m. Tours will be available. ebrates Central Highs 70th a tv
Other events on Ihe preliminary niversary. Tlie school opened, schedule include: 1927. HSeptl9-2lLittleRockchnreh- From Sept. 20-27, "The FinestJ OS and synagogues will bo asked to High Schobl for Negro Boys aiW
pray for rccunciflution within the Girls
Dunbar Digb School in LiltlcS' city. Rock, Arkansas, 1929-S.5'' will",^!
:: Sept 23 Green, the first black displayed at the state-Capitol ^ Tlie graduate at Central High, will speak at' the Little Rock Rotaiy Club, 11:30 a.m., at the Doubletree Hotel. tunda. The National Dunbar Histo-.
. ry Project, a collaboration of tjle
, National Dunbar Alumni Associ^-J tion and tiie Ui 9 Sept 24Officials will organize at Little Rock, a news conference wilh the Little Rock Nine at a time to be determined. Bl Sept. 25 Clinton, Huckabee, Lillie Rock Mayor Jim Dailey and the Little Rock Nine will take pail Iniversilyof/ , created the Staff Reporter Jane Fi^erion contfSxj^' to this article. . iU''. 5 program conunemorating Uie ___ anniversary. The same day Bates and the Little Rock Nine will , inthe 40th t be honored at a reception, 530-7:30 p,m,, Arkansas Excelsior Hotel.Clinton challenges Americans to fight racism in our hearts BY ALISON MrrCHELL NEW YORK TIMES NEWS SERVICE SAN DIEGO, Calif. In the state at the forefront of the movement against racial preferences. President Clinton on Saturday defended affirmative action as a way to overcome Americas racial and ethnic divisions. In the speech on race relations, Clinton challenged Americans to push beyond the civil rights laws of the 1960s and examine their attitudes toward each other.. We have tom down the barriers in our laws, he said in the com-mencement address at the University of Californias Sahpiego campus. 1Now we must brfeak|gown the bar-riers on our lives, oiir minds, our hearts. J ' Remembering that three decades ago, &e Kerner Commission found that our nation is moving towards two societies, one black, one white, separate and unequal, Clinton said, Today, we face a choice: Will we become, not two, but many Americas, separate, unequal and isolated? Or will we draw strength from all our people and our ancient faith in equality and dignity to become the worlds first truly multiracial democracy? To underscore his points, the president chose to begin a year-long focus on race relations at a campus of the University of California, a university system that now prohibits the use of race or sex in hiring and admissions. There are those who argue that scores on standardized tests should be the sole measure of qualifications for admissions to colleges and universities, but many would not apply the same standard to children of alumni and those with athletic ability, Clinton said. Clintons commencement address is the first of many appearances he plans to make to conduct what he has called a dialogue on race relations with the American people. Last week, the president appointed a seven-member advisory panel to work with him through the next year and help him write a report to the country. As part of the effort, Clinton plans town meetings on race and appearances like one in September to commemorate President Eisen- Bowers use of federal froops to d^ segregate Little Rocks Central High .slpa__ 2 - Associated Pfess President Clinton gestures after delivering the commencement address Saturday to graduating students at the University of California, San Diego. The'uni-versity system prohibits the use of race or sex in hiring and admissions, but in his speech Clinton defended affirmative action initiatives. ' 5 In a nod to civil rights leaders who have wondered whether his effort will go beyond speeches, Clinton said Saturday: If we achieve , nothing more than talk, that will be too little. If we do nothing but pro-
pose disconnected acts of policy, i that will be too little. But if 10 years from now, people can look back and see that this year of honest dialogue and concerted action helped to lift the heavy burden of race from our childrens future, we will have given a precious gift to America. A son of the South, Clinton has long mulled over questions of race relations in America. He has called the mtegration by force of Central High School the formative political experience of his youth. I grew up in the high drama of the Cold War, in the patriotic South when blacks and whites alike wore oui nations uniform in defense of freedom against commimism and fought and died together in Vietnam, Clinton said. But back home, I went to segregated schools, swam in segregated public pools, sat in all-white sections at the movies and traveled through small towns that marked restrooms and water fountains white and colored. Arkansas Democrat-Gazette June 15, 1997 Although the White House suggested that policy proposals in areas like housing, education, criminal justice and health care will grow out of the presidents race'mi-tiative, Clintons first task, his aides said, is to deal with the perception gap. A Gallup poll released earlier this week found that 58 percent'of whites surveyed thought that the quality of life for black Americans had become better over the past decade while 33 percent of black respondents thought that it had. ' Clinton also drew skepticism from the right. Rep. Newt Gingrich, the Speaker of the House, referring to the seven-member advisory group appointed by Clinton, said Friday, Unless the commission has a dramatically different agenda and a dramaticailly different approach than the same tired old big government liberalism, it will be like commissions weive had for 30 years. ATTENTION: The next meeting will be Thursday, July 3rd at 4:30pm in the Sister Cities Conference Room, second floor in City Hall. Ms. Alma Williams will be serving as the coordinator of events for the Commission. The City has provided her office space at City Hall. She can be reached at 371-4859 or 371-4525. The fax number is 371-4498. Ms. Alma Williams City Hall, Room 203 500 W. Markham Little Rock, AR 72201 RESSIVSD JUN ] 8 iS37 OrFiCc Of desegregation iVlO.NiTORii'JG The deadline for getting names of organizations and individuals that need to be invited to participate in the September events is July 2, 1997. Send them to Ms. Williams at City' Hall.LITTLE ROCK CENTRAL HIGH ANNIVERSARY COMMISSION JUNE 11, 1997 SISTER CITIES CONFERENCE ROOM, CIT\ HALL MEETING SUMMARY Mr. Rett Tucker opened the meeting and announced that Ms. Fatima McKindra had been selected as Governor at Girls State and Mr. Eugene Kurpitsky will be going to Washington as a Boys Nation Delegate. He also armounced that Governor Huckabee has agreed to host the Nine at the Mansion, and will also attend the Visitor Center opening. In addition, Mr. Tucker noted that on a recent trip to Washington, D C. for the NAACP Legal Defense Fund awards dinner, he and Mr. Virgil Miller had a chance to met with the eight of the Nine that were in attendance. He reported that they are excited about the September events being planned, and that the Nine receive the minutes from both the Commission and the Museum Board meetings, and they read every word of them. Mr. Tucker then turned the floor over to Ms. Alma Williams who will be serving as a coordinator for the Commission. OVERVIEW OF CALENDAR Ms. Williams introduced Ms. Cynthia East and stated that she and Ms. Vicki Saviers will help her with the coordination. She reported that she has pulled together all the events that she was awaie of and placed them on one calendar. For the purpose of moving the Commission meetings along, Ms. Williams asked that discussion be kept to a minimum until she went over the entire schedule. She also asked that the Commission members get aU ideas to her at City Hall. On Saturday, September 20th, the Visitor Center will open, this will be the responsibility of the Museum. Ms. Williams explained that she has scheduled a book signing at the Visitor Center every day except Thursday, September 25th. The first signing be on Saturday, featuring Ms. Daisy Bates book. The Central High PTSA will also be offering tours of Central High to the public after the Visitor Center opening. Ms. Williams has also placed the Dunbar High School exhibit, at the State Capitol, on the schedule of events. On Sunday, September 21st, a reconciliation prayer is planned for all local churches. The prayer is to be outlined by Rev. Chris Keller and Rev. Hezekiah Stewart. Ms. Williams suggested forming an interdenominational committee to work on the prayer. A book signing and the Dunbar exhibit are also on the agenda for Sunday. On Monday, September 22nd, a book signing and the Dunbar exhibit are the only items on the schedule thus far. A book signing, the Dunbar exhibit, and the Downtown Rotary Program are scheduled for Tuesday the 23rd. Mr. Ernest Green will be speaking at the Rotary meetin
ig- Ms. Williams noted that she, Ms. Saivers and Ms. East discussed creating some sort of form to be sent out to the public that will invite them to submit their ideas for events to the Commission. The form will note the content areas discussed by Ms. Ann Brown at the Commission's public forum. This form will also help to serve as a guideline for the community as to what type of events should be 1planned. Ms. Williams has asked that other civic clubs be contacted for possible speaking engagements for the Nine while they are in town. On Wednesday, September 24th, a press conference is scheduled for the Nine. Ms. Williams asked if separate press conferences should be held for the parents and the children of the Nine to get their perspective on the events of the past and present. She suggested that the Media Committee be in charge of handling the press conferences since they have experience with this. The idea for the Nine to visit with the students at CHS was presented to the Commission. A visit on Wednesday would build student interest for the big event on Thursday. A book signing and the Dunbar exhibit are also on the schedule. On Thursday, September 25th, Rev. Stewart's march will take place around CHS in the morning. The big event with the President and the Nine will be later in the day. Both the NCCJ and Dr. Betsy Jacoways conferences will begin, and the Dunbar exhibit at the Capitol will still be available for viewing. Thursday evening will be the reception at the Excelsior Hotel for the Nine. The logistics for this event still need to be worked out. On Friday, September 26th, another book signing will take place at the Visitor Center
the NCCJ and Dr. Jacoways conferences will be continuing
and the Dunbar exhibit at the Capitol will be open. Saturday, September 27th will be the close of the NCCJ and Dr. Jacoways conferences. The last book signing will be held at the Visitor Center and the Dunbar exhibit will still be at the Capitol. Ms. Williams explained that these are the events that are presently on the public calendar. There will also be a private schedule of events. The only event on this schedule thus far is the dinner at the Govemof s Mansion for the Nine. The Governor has agreed to host the dinner on Saturday the 27th. DISCUSSION Ms. Williams explained that she hopes to give the Commission a framework to work from to schedule events for the Anniversary. The times of the events still need to be worked out. Ms. Williams announced that the City has provided her with oflhce space to work on the planning of the September events. She will work with the Commission to create a form to send out to groups or individuals that want to be included on the calendar of events. Ms. Williams also requested that the Commissioners pass along any information regarding events or people that need to be included to her, at City Hall. She asked Ms. Leta Anthony to be in charge of receiving information from the community about events being plaimed. Ms. Saviers asked about compiling a list of individuals that need to be invited. Mr. Tracy Steele suggested that the Commission extend an invitation to the NAACP, Leadership Roundtable and the Black Ministerial Alliance to participate. Ms. Williams responded that the public announcement by the Commission is intended to do just that very thing. But if people need a personal invitation, let her know and she will see that they receive one. 2Ms. Anthony pointed out that the Martin Luther King, Jr. Commission and the Leadership Roundtable would still like to see events that are inclusive being placed on the calendar. Ms. Williams requested that Mr. Steele be in charge of finding out what other opportunities are available in the community for the Nine to speak. Mr. Tucker cautioned about checking with the Nine before committing them to anything. Ms. Anthony asked whether the NCCJ was planning a dinner or reception and what night that was going to be taking place. Ms. Williams stated that she will speak to Mr. Ron Lanoue and get a copy of the NCCTs schedule. Ms. Anthony requested that the evening of Friday the 26th be reserved for an event for the African American community. Mr. Craig Rains asked about the involvement of the CHS Student Council. Mr. Eugene Kurpitsky noted that the Student Council had discussed some sort of carnival at Central. Ms. Saviers suggested that the Student Council be involved in the open house at Central on Saturday the 20th. Mr. Rudolph Howard noted that Dr. Jacoway reserved the Central auditorium for Saturday the 27th and Mr. Lanoue has called and he also wants it. Ms. Williams asked who the space was committed to first. If it was Dr. Jacoway then she should have the use of it. Ms. Saviers stated that this is why outlines of the two coitferences need to be given to the Commission. Mr. Rains added that the Class of 1958 had discussed doing something for the 70th Anniversary of the school. He noted that the idea was to do something on the grounds on Saturday the 27th. Mr. Tucker stated that if the plan is for the Nine to visit with students on Wednesday, that would require them to arrive in Little Rock on Tuesday. The original plan was to have them here Wednesday through Saturday. He also noted that American Airlines has agreed to pay airfare for each of the Nine and one companion. Ms. Saviers asked Mr. Steele if the organizations that he mentioned need a personal invitation to go out to them. He feels that they do need something to go to them, asking them if they would like to plan and carry out an event. Ms. Anthony added that personal invitations need to go out to the individuals that played an important role in 1957. Mr. Kurpitsky stated that the student clubs at Central are willing to help with any of the events, just let them know. Ms. Fatima McKindra added that she has spoken to the Student Council, National Honor Society, Black Culture Society, Gentlemen and Ladies Clubs and they are all willing to help. She noted that the Student Council has given tours of Central before and they would be willing to help with the open house being hosted by the PTSA. Mr. Steele stated that the Martin Luther King, Jr. Arkansas Youth Assembly will be holding part of their activities at Central this July. He asked if that should be included on the Commission's calendar. 3Ms. Williams stated that she is depending on the Commission to get her the names of those that need an invitation. She requested that the names be given to her by Wednesday, July 2nd. Mr. Tucker suggested having the next meeting on Thursday, July 3rd at 4:30pm. Ms. Anthony introduced Mr. Larry Ross to the members of the Commission. He will serve as a liaison between Ms. Daisy Bates and the Commission. Mr. Ross added that he will assist in the process in any way he can. Mr. Rains noted that the Media Committee will be finalizing the press kits and will be releasing them before the next Commission meeting. The next Commission meeting will be Thursday, July 3rd at 4:30pm in the Sister Cities Conference Room, second floor in City Hall. Attendance List June 11, 1997 Tracy Steele Rudolph Howard Eugene Kurpitsky Laura Miller Larry Ross Suellen Vann Leta Anthony Rett Tucker Cynthia East Vicki Saviers Fatima McKindra Craig Rains Alma Wilhams Melissa Bridges 4^/<?</ -te 'il' Office of Desegregation Monitoring United States District Court Eastern District of Arkansas Ann S. Brown, Federal Monitor 201 East Markham, Suite 510 Heritage West Building Little Rock, Arkansas 72201 (501)376-6200 Fax (501) 371-0100 Date: July 11, 1997 BY FAX To: Alma Williams From: Ann Brown Re: Request for Specifics on Book Signing Committee of the Central High Commission Thanks for your phone call this week. Im happy to chair the Book Signing Committee, and will be glad to help in any other way you need me. As soon as possible, please fax me (at 371-0100) the name, afBliations, and phone numbers of the others on my committee. (I understand that Im free to recruit additional members as needed.) Please include a brief synopsis or list of exactly what my committees responsibilities include. Also point out any givens, such as who will be signing which books, any already agreed-upon location, time, etc. Then Ill take it from there. Thanks very much.CITY OF L.R. MANAGER TEL:'" 1-4498 Jul 17-97 10:05 No .008 P.Ol 1 EOO Wes'M-jAnTi 000:11201 Orxl AO 72201 .S3i
371-iS': rax
5!)ii 31-A4ia Date. To: La: 'far/ chair Uf Gi. .icnes. Evert':! 1 .C^ef, ill. cho-' MeTice'b jJCf!? JF. From t C' h
:' Ac?
iT Subject >e Hl Eugene Krup lSf- Fauria f.'SMhuw C'j'D Flairs f Ss.'lfrs Rsv Uazekiet. Sie'Aar! .My 15, ixAnn Brown, Book Signing Arrangements Suellen Van, Traiispoitation .fohanna Miller Lewis, Hisioiw Symposium & NCC.! Education Conference Vickie Savie-'s, Centra! High School Open House Cynthia East. Fundraising Reception and Governors M.-msion Rev. Hezekiah Stewart, March for Reconciliation Rev. Chris- Keller, Reconciliation Prayer Debbie Milam, Volunteers Katherine Cockrill, Irivrtation.s
Reception St 40th Anniversary Activities /Vma Williamsy Central High School 40th Anniversary Committees Thank vou for chairing a committee for Central High School 40th Anmversary' A$ discussed in our telephone conversation, you may add others to your committee. Please organize your conunittee and 'icTicdule a meeting as soon as possible 1 would appreciate receiving vour meetinc dates as -wd! as rhe names of your committee members by,Inly 25 .At each, of the 4C'th Anniversarv Conimtssion ineelmgs, please be prepared to give vour committees report. If you cannot attend all meetings, send me your report prior to the meeting. I will be at ov Hall from 10:00 a.m *12 noon daily Please call me if you have (luestior " number is 571-4 r need additional mlbrmatioii The olYice phone CITY OF^L^R. MANAGER TEL:501-371-4498 Jul 17 97 10:05 No.008 P.02 BOOK SIGNING Vhe Hook Signmu Comnmlec wiS! be responsible for scheduling date and lime l^r book ivi-iip 'vitbin the visitor center, coordinating with the University o. -Vkansas e ihai books will be in the visitor center before September 20 and all other associated with this activity from September 20 through September 27 m the visKor cvHie. . va wik ...d .0 Coordinate with the transponation conun.ttee, Suellen Vatw to ensure
This project was supported in part by a Digitizing Hidden Special Collections and Archives project grant from The Andrew W. Mellon Foundation and Council on Library and Information Resoources.