Page 12 - 3-13-15 Friday's Edition

IN THE SPOTLIGHT
Tygeria
This week’s spotlight feature, Tygeria is rapidly be- coming one of Las Vegas's most renowned models. She attributes her rising success to her relentless work ethic, professionalism, spunky personality, and unique appearance. Whether it’s lingerie, swimsuit, glamour, fashion, editorial, club wear, or beauty, she can deliver some jaw-dropping and captivating photographs. She also has a dance background in ballet, tap, jazz, hip hop, and belly dancing and singing and acting as well. Congratulations to Tygeria as this week’s Spotlight fea- ture.
Transitional Housing Program Recovers After Allegations Of Abuse
BY LEON B. CREWS Sentinel Staff Writer
Tom Atchison founded the New Beginnings Transi- tional Housing Program to help homeless and disenfran- chised people all over the city.
In November and Decem- ber of 2014, published stories accused the facility of abusing and exploiting homeless peo- ple. They depend on grants from Hillsborough County and other sources to operate.
County Commissioner Kevin Beckner immediately asked for a federal investiga- tion to look at the facility for human trafficking violations and violations of labor laws. Atchison said after the inves-
tigation, they were cleared of any wrongdoing, but the dam- age done by the accusations has hurt their funding sources.
“Now that the dust has set- tled and the truth is coming out that the published stories were not based on any facts, confidence is slowly returning to our staff and others we do business with.
“The few things that were factual were blown up so that a speck of dirt could look like a mountain.”
Atchison said they make no apologies for requiring their clients carry a part of their expense by working.
“We want to teach them a work ethic and not to depend on the government and others
to support them. Work is not a dirty word, but a great gift given to us by God to have self- worth and to be a part of the community.
“New Beginnings has sur- vived, but had to cut a lot of services as the truth continues to surface. We have been help- ing people for more than 15 years, and will continue to do so.”
Atchison said they house over 50 veterans, and the accu- sations severely damaged serv- ices they had been receiving.
“It is my contention that all of the negative stories were fabricated, and gave us a se- vere credibility issue. I think we’ve successfully managed to defuse that situation.
FYI
West Tampa Group To Present Outdoor Event
On Saturday, March 14th at 5 p. m., the West Tampa Alliance Group will be hosting a big outdoor event at the West Tampa Outdoor Event Pavillion on Main Street, just west of Albany Avenue.
Dee Jackson, who is coordinating the event, said they have put together a full program, and have planned a series of events leading up to their spectacular Juneteenth Celebration.
“We welcome everyone to join us and come out and have a great time.
West Tampa internet radio station WURK will be actively involved in the event, and have put to- gether a long list of entertainers who will be performing.
Anyone interested in joining in on this celebration can call (813) 516-9333, or (813) 391-7786.
Local
PAGE 12-A FLORIDA SENTINEL BULLETIN PUBLISHED EVERY TUESDAY AND FRIDAY FRIDAY, MARCH 13, 2015