Baltimore AFRO American Newspaper December 21 2013 by AFRO News

December 21, 2013 - December 21, 2013, www.afro.com

Volume 122 No. 20

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The Afro-American A1 $1.00

DECEMBER 21, 2013 - DECEMBER 27, 2013

Past and Present Converge at Mandela’s Burial By George E. Curry NNPA Editor-in-Chief

INSIDE A4

Three Blacks Receive Rhodes Scholarships

22nd Annual Golden Scissors Competition INSERTS • Walmart

Listen to “First Edition” Join Host Sean Yoes Sunday @ 8 p.m. on 88.9 WEAA FM, the Voice of the Community.

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The casket procession of his youth, culminating 10 days of national mourning. Mandela died on Dec. 5 at age 95. The Nobel Prize-winner, in accordance with his wishes, was buried in a family graveyard high in rolling green hills where other close relatives are buried, including his father, Makgatho Mandela, who died in 2005; his eldest son, Madiba Thembekile, who

died in an automobile accident in 1969; and Makaziwe Mandela, his first daughter, who died as an infant in 1948. In his autobiography, Long Walk to Freedom, Mandela described Qunu as a place where “I spent the happiest years of my boyhood and whence I trace my earliest

Continued on A3

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The Baltimore City Health Department suspended Mondawmin area operations for Safe Streets, a communitybased program to reduce crime and street violence, after two recent arrests, including the discovery of a loaded handgun and live ammunition in the possession of a Safe Streets worker who is on parole for murder. Safe Streets is a program to mitigate crime by using outreach workers, often ex-offenders, to mediate dispute and discourage criminal activity. Health department officials said they shut down operations at the Mondawmin site “until further notice” following allegations of criminal activity by two staff members at the West Baltimore facility. “These two incidents are not indicative of the work of most Safe Streets staff and should not be viewed as an indictment against the program,” health department spokesman Michael Schwartzberg told the AFRO. The most recent incident occurred Dec. 7 when a police pulled over a pickup truck driven by Levar Mullen, 33—also known as Var—because the driver was not wearing a seat belt. According to a BPD spokesperson, officers were acting on a tip they received in November that a black male driving a silver Dodge pickup truck was selling narcotics in West Baltimore. “On Dec. 7 detectives patrolling the Edmondson Ave. corridor—wearing plainclothes with black tactical vests with the word POLICE—pulled over Var’s pickup,” Sgt. Sarah Connolly said in a statement. Continued on A3

Members of Baltimore’s Carter Memorial COGIC Prepare to March Into New Home By Afro Staff When the Rev. Carl A. Pierce Sr. of Carter Memorial Church first walked into St. Peter the Apostle Church three years ago, he saw the carved angels, a statue of the patron saint standing over the altar and a pipe organ in the balcony. But Pierce also saw something else in the vacated church, he said. He envisioned himself walking into what would become his church’s new ministry campus. “Something just leaped in my spirit,” Pierce said during a recent interview. “I knew immediately that that was our home. I saw the building transformed. I saw it alive. I saw worship. I saw activity. I immediately saw it.” After 58 years at its current location, Carter Memorial Continued on A5

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Workers Arrested for Guns By Blair Adams AFRO Staff Writer

QUNU, South Africa (NNPA)—With a rich mixture of ceremonial military pomp and ancient tribal customs, Nelson Mandela, South Africa’s first democratically elected president, was buried here Dec. 15 in the village

days left to register on MHC for health coverage effective Jan. 1.

Program For ExOffenders on Hold

Rev. Carl A. Pierce Sr. and congregation

Navy Vice Adm. Michelle Howard Laurel Woman Charged With Tapped for Fourth Star Stabbing Husband to Death Trailblazer Would Become First Woman Admiral By Zachary Lester AFRO Staff Writer U.S. Navy Vice Adm. Michelle J. Howard was recently nominated by President Obama to be elevated to the rank of admiral. Howard would become the first woman—Black or White—to receive the fourth star. Her nomination requires Senate confirmation. Howard, 53, currently serves as deputy chief of naval operations for operations, plans and strategy. If confirmed, she would become vice chief of naval operations at the Pentagon, the Navy’s second highest position. The latest honor is not the first instance in which Howard was tapped to become a first. In March 1999, she was named commanding officer of the USS Rushmore, the first time an African-American woman had been selected to command a U.S. Navy ship. Howard told Time magazine that being named “surprised people more

Protective Order Requested Against Him Six Months Ago

information about a suspect in the case. The next day, however, Sutton’s wife, Marquita Sharrice Berry-Sutton, The wife of a military officer has 30, turned herself in to authorities. been charged with second degree She was charged with second-degree murder for allegedly stabbing him murder in the case and was ordered to death in their Laurel home. Police held without bail by an Anne Arundel believe the incident District Court judge occurred as the after a brief hearing couple’s toddler was Dec. 16. inside the home. The Police said Sutton child was not injured. was in the U.S. Army. Anne Arundel According to County police were myfoxdc.com, Sutton called to the 8300 may have implicated block of Frostwood herself in the killing, Road in Laurel about allegedly telling 10:30 a.m. Dec. 13 to investigators that she check on the residents. stabbed her husband Inside the home, Courtesy Photo as they fought. they found Johnnie Court records in Marquita Berry-Sutton Sutton III, 38, suffering Anne Arundel District from several stab wounds. He was Court show that a protective order pronounced dead at the scene of the was filed against Sutton on June 16 incident. Police initially did not release Continued on A3 By Zachary Lester AFRO Staff Writer

public.navy.mil

U.S. Navy Vice Adm. Michelle Howard because of her race” than being a woman. “For some of the sailors, it was a big deal—not because of the woman thing, but because of the African-American thing,” she told the magazine. “I literally had people Continued on A4

The Afro-American, December 21, 2013 - December 27, 2013

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NATION & WORLD Florida A&M, Fisk Universities Removed From Probationary Status Two historical Black universities saw their collegiate accreditations recently removed from probationary status. Florida A&M University was placed on probationary status one year ago in the wake of the hazing death of a member of its marching band. But the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools (SACS) removed that designation Dec. 10, saying the school had fixed a number of problems. Interim President Larry Robinson said a “dark cloud” had been lifted off the school. “It’s the best possible outcome that could have happened for this university,” Robinson said, according to the Associated Press. Florida A&M was cited for several issues, including the safety of its students after the November 2011 death of marching band member Robert Champion, as well as financial oversight and auditing integrity, according to the AP. Students attending unaccredited universities are not eligible for financial aid. A similar cloud was lifted from Nashville-based Fisk University when the SACS reaffirmed the institution’s accreditation and removed its probationary status on the same day.

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In a December 2011 decision to place Fisk on two years of probation, the accrediting body cited five problem areas— four concerning poor financial controls and the fifth related to the school’s governance, saying the trustees had failed to manage the school’s budgetary affairs, according to The (Nashville) Tennessean.

Calif. Man Burns to Death Attempting to Steal Gas A California man resorted to stealing gas for his vehicle in order to save money, but his attempt to save an extra buck in a tough economy ended with him burning to death. The Los Angeles Police Department found the body of Richard Glover in his van on Dec. 10, and determined that he burned to death when his van exploded moments after he stole gas from a local gas station, according to Los Angeles CBS affiliate KCBS. “It was like boop…and it blew the window out,” Hervia Robertson, the gas station security guard who witnessed the fire, told the television station. She said the explosion caused a nearly 10-foot-high fireball. According to officials, Glover entered a 76 Station in South Los Angeles to pay for gas, and then got into his van and drove to the rear of the gas station. LAPD spokesman Officer Manuel Gomez told CBS LA, “it appears there’s some type of pump coming from the vehicle to the port of the tank.” Police found two 55-fuel gallons, a pump and an inch-wide water hose inside the van. Officials said they believed Glover was trying to steal gas from the station’s underground tank when his van exploded. The attempt wasn’t the first time Glover stole gas; his family said he would steal gas when things got financially tough and had been injured before. “He got burned one time. That should’ve been enough,” Ivan Jackson, Glover’s brother-in-law, told KCBS.

Jay-Z Heads List of Grammy Nominees

Mrs. Santa Donation Form The Afro-American Newspaper family is helping to grant a wish for the area’s most vulnerable. Would you like to help a child or family and create memories that will last a lifetime? For many disadvantaged families, you can turn dreams into reality by participating in the Mrs. Santa Campaign. o I want to join the AFRO’s spirit of giving. Please accept my contribution of $___________ to benefit a less fortunate family. Name_______________________________ Address_____________________________ Organization_________________________ City________________________________ State___________________ Zip_________ Phone_______________________________ E-mail_______________________________ Please send all contributions and adoption requests to:

Afro-Charities, Inc. Attn: Diane W. Hocker 2519 N. Charles Street Baltimore, MD 21218 410-554-8243

Veteran performer Jay-Z led all Grammy Awards nominees with nine nods ranging from Best Pop Duo or Group Performance for his work with Justin Timberlake on the song “Suit and Tie” to best Rap Album. The nominations were announced by the Recording Academy of Arts and Sciences late last week. “This year’s nominations reflect the talented community of music makers who represent some of the highest levels of excellence and artistry of the year in their respective fields,” Neil Portnow, president and CEO of the Recording Academy, said in a statement. “Once again, The Academy’s awards process and its voting membership have produced an impressive list of nominations across various genres promising music fans a spectacular show filled with stellar Jay-Z performances and unique ‘Grammy Moments.’” Tied for seven nominations each are Kendrick Lamar, Macklemore, Justin Timberlake, and Pharrell Williams. Cee Lo Green could take home the Grammy award for Best Traditional Pop Vocal Album if he can beat out fellow nominees Gloria Estefan with “The Standards,” Michael Buble’s “To Be Loved,” Dionne Warwick with “Now,” and the various artists that appeared with Tony Bennet on “Viva Duets.” Though she was pleased overall with the list of nominees, Michelle Shellers, a member of the Washington, D.C. chapter of the Recording Academy, said there was room for improvement. “I hope to see more musically awesome, lyrically responsible, currently underground acts breaking into mainstream in the near future,” she told the AFRO. “There used to be more diversity in what was considered mainstream and it would be great to experience that again.” Shellers said she was looking forward to the competition for Best R&B Album, a category featuring the likes of John Legend’s “Love in the Future,” Alicia Key’s “Girl on Fire,” Chrisette Michelle’s “Better,” and “R&B Divas” by Faith Evans. The group TGT, made up of crooners Tyrese, Ginuwine, and Tank, also got a nod for Best R&B Album for their work on “Three Kings.” Robin Thicke’s “Blurred Lines” will go against Justin Timberlake’s “The 20/20 Experience” in the Best Pop Vocal Album category, in which Lorde’s “Pure Heroine,” Lana Del Rey’s “Paradise” and Bruno Mars’ “Unorthodox Jukebox” are also contending. The 56th Grammy Awards will air live on CBS on Jan. 26 at 8 p.m. from the Staples Center in Los Angeles.

The Afro-American, December 21, 2013 - December 21, 2013

December 21, 2013 - December 27, 2013, The Afro-American

Mandela Burial Continued from A1

memories.” Leaders and celebrities from around the world made their way to this bucolic community in the eastern section of the country to share their memories of the global icon. Among those attending were Archbishop Emeritus Desmond Tutu; media mogul Oprah Winfrey, who was escorted by longtime beau Stedman Graham; civil rights leader Jesse Jackson; Britain’s Prince Charles; and British actor Idris Elba, who plays Mandela in the movie, Long Walk to Freedom. Because seating was restricted to 4,500 accredited guests, many local residents complained that they were forced to watch the funeral of their most celebrated son on television. To ease complaints about exclusion, the government set up 16 broadcast viewing areas across the country for viewing and collective mourning. The state funeral and parts of the burial were broadcast live in South Africa and around the world.The funeral followed a memorial service Dec. 8 and three days of Mandela lying in state in Pretoria. His body was viewed by more than 100,000 people. Because of long lines and hours too short for the occasion, at least twice as many people might have viewed the body if they had been given the opportunity. After a final ceremony Dec. 14 at the Union Buildings in Pretoria, Mandela’s coffin was flown to Mthatha, where it was met by a military escort and greeted by locals with three shouts of “Aaah! Dalibhung,” a reference to Dalibhunga, the name given to Mandela at 16 upon being initiated into adulthood. His remains were transported to Quna, 37 miles away. There, military officials handed them over to village elders. The South African flag that draped his coffin was replaced with a lion skin, a traditional symbol of the Xhosa people. Tribal leaders and men in his family held a private vigil at dusk in keeping with traditions of Mandela’s Thembu clan. His remains stayed in his bedroom throughout the night, overlooking his future grave site. The Dec. 15 event was an all Africa affair. “As your journey ends today, ours must continue in

earnest,” said President Zuma, who delivered the eulogy with Mandela’s flag-draped casket resting in front of him. “One thing we can assure you today, Tata, as you take your final steps, is that South Africa will continue to rise. We pledge to take your vision forward.” As the first president elected with the participation of Black voters, Mandela is considered the father of the country, hence the numerous references to “Tata,” which means father. He is also referred to as Madiba, his clan name. Malawian President Joyce Banda praised Mandela at the funeral as an ideal leader. “Leadership is about falling in love with the people you serve and about people falling in love with you. It is about serving the people selflessly with sacrifice and a need to put good ahead of personal interest.” Kenneth Kaunda, Zambia’s first post-colonial president, praised Mandela as “South Africa’s greatest son.” When African National Congress (ANC) Deputy President Cryil Ramaphosa tried to shorten Kaunda’s – President Zuma speech by slipping him a note, the former president told the audience, “This boy is trying to control me. He doesn’t know that I fought the Boers.” Uncontrolled, Kaunda continued, “As we go on without Madiba, he’s no more in terms of his life, but he is still with our leaders. His lessons remain with us, to guide us. Remember, Madiba also told us to love our neighbors as you love yourself.” Only 450 people, most of them international leaders and high-ranking ANC officials, were allowed to attend the burial. Helicopters adorned with South African flags hovered above. About a dozen Pilatus PC-7 aircrafts streaked across the clear skies in formation. South African National Defense Force Chaplain Rev. Monwabisi Jamangile prayed, saying: “Yours was truly a long walk to freedom and now you have achieved the ultimate freedom in the bosom of your leader, God Almighty.” See more at afro.com.

“One thing we can assure you today, Tata, as you take your final steps, is that South Africa will continue to rise. We pledge to take your vision forward.”

Program On Hold Continued from A1

She said when the detectives approached Mullen’s truck and asked him for his driver’s license, vehicle registration and proof of insurance, he seemed “visibly nervous,” breathing heavily and complied in a jittery manner with the officers’ requests. Police then asked Mullen if he had any guns or drugs in his possession and he said “no because he works for Safe Streets.” Detectives then requested a K-9 unit to search Mullen’s truck. Connolly said detectives found a Glock model 30, a .45-cal. semiautomatic handgun, fully loaded with one round of ammunition in the firing

chamber. Also found was a magazine for a Glock, containing 10 rounds of .45-cal ammunition. Mullen, on parole after serving seven years of a 30-year prison sentence for murder, was arrested for gun violations. Police said the incident echoed an arrest in November when a Safe Streets employee, also from the Mondawmin facility, was apprehended by federal agents on drug and gun charges. “Safe Streets staff often have a previous history of involvement or association in criminal activity, which is one aspect of what allows them to be viewed as credible messengers in the community,” Schwartzberg said. He said the staff are employees of the specific communityshared in Laurel. She grabbed a stun gun, used it against her husband and there was then a fight. Sutton says she was able to get into a bedroom, grab a knife and stab her husband, but exactly what happened after that is unclear.” Fox 5 website reported that Sutton’s body was found wrapped in a blanket and “his head was covered with a plastic bag.” Police said Berry-Sutton claimed to have injured her arm in the fight and that she moved Sutton’s car away from the front of their home after the incident, the website reported. According to court records, Berry-Sutton is 5’4 inches tall and weighs 160 pounds. The record listed her address as the 5400 block of Marinelli Road in Rockville.

Laurel Woman Continued from A1

ordering that he “shall not abuse, shall not contact, shall vacate the home and shall not enter the residence. The order was valid through June 21. At a hearing scheduled for 9 a.m. June 21, the order was dismissed. “Petitioner requested dismissal,” the record shows. The name of the petitioner could not be determined. The Fox 5 website said authorities were notified after officials at Fort Meade called the property manager at the complex where the Suttons lived and asked him to check on the family. The manager apparently called police. “According to a court affidavit, Marquita Sutton told this story to police: she said last Thursday, her husband tried to sexually assault her inside the home the two

based organization that operates each program and are not employees of the Baltimore City Health Department. “Safe Streets has been shown to be extremely effective in mediating community situations and preventing escalations of violence,” he said. In spite of the two recent arrests, he said, the program is effective. Schwartzberg said a Street Safe evaluation conducted by the Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health in January found that “in all four sites the program was associated with a statistically significant decline in either homicides or nonfatal shootings, or both.” “We look forward to continuing the excellent work being done in the Mondawmin community to help stem the tide of violence,” he said.

St. Bernardine’s Loses ‘Beloved Pastor’

The west Baltimore community is saddened by the sudden death, on Dec. 15, of Father Edward Miller, pastor of St. Bernardine Parish for almost 40 years. The Mass of Christian Burial was held Dec. 19 at the Cathedral of Mary Our Queen.

Black Journalists React to Mandela Coverage By Zenitha Prince AFRO Senior Correspondent Black journalists who covered South Africa’s antiapartheid movement had both praise and censure for the mainstream media’s coverage of Nelson Mandela since his death on Dec. 5, according to a survey conducted by Richard Prince’s “Journal-isms.” For American journalists of color who covered the African nation’s liberation struggle, Mandela’s release from prison and his historic election as president, it was a challenge to maintain objectivity. “For black journalists, covering South Africa and Mandela was always a tricky balancing act, because for many—like me—he was an icon before I was ever a journalist, and the anti-apartheid struggle in South Africa was the first political cause I cared about while in college,” said Keith B. Richburg, a former Washington Post foreign editor who was in South Africa before and after Mandela’s election. “How do you ‘objectively’ cover the end of apartheid when you—like me—had gone to divestment rallies in college and played ‘Free Nelson Mandela’ at house parties?” Perhaps, because of that inherent racial connection, some of the six journalists who responded—all African-American men—were particularly sensitive about mainstream media’s coverage of Mandela’s death. For example, some – Keith B. Richburg criticized the media for not painting a full picture of “Madiba,” as Mandela was known among his people, and the African National Congress’ struggle for freedom. Sunni Khalid, a freelance broadcast journalist, covered stories in 1989, just before Mandela was released from prison after three decades; in November 1992; and in 1994, when Mandela was elected president. His criticism of the mainstream media’s coverage of Mandela and the Black South African freedom struggle began back then. “I got sick and damned tired of hearing white commentators talk about their fears that Mandela would emerge from prison and call for a racial bloodbath,” he told Prince via e-mail. “That was never Madiba’s option, nor the ANC’s. They consistently preached full equality, which scared both white Americans and white South Africans.” This time around, he said, several news reports made some “egregious errors.” “The CNN stuff was the worst, describing Madiba in [Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.] terms as a ‘man of peace!’” Khalid said. “For chrissakes, he was imprisoned because he took up arms against the government! And he refused his release several times because he would not renounce the armed struggle. When he was released, it was because [South African President F.W.] De Klerk agreed to HIS terms, elections, freeing political prisoners and unbanning of the ANC [African National Congress], PAC [Pan Africanist Congress] and others.” Jon Jeter, author of Flat Broke in the Free Market: How Globalization Fleeced Working People, and a Post correspondent in South Africa from 1999 to 2002, said he has paid little attention to mainstream American news coverage since it was told from a “white supremacist view,” which makes the stories “neither true nor interesting.” “Because white supremacy is nothing more than a form of self-adoration, news stories of Mandela’s passing…emphasize his ‘forgiveness’ of white people, at the expense of what he— and the ANC—meant to the struggle of people worldwide to emancipate themselves from racist, colonial oppression,” Jeter said. “[Mandela] has far more in common with Malcolm X and Fidel Castro than he does Barack Obama.” Jeter added that most news organizations ignored some of the more controversial aspects of Mandela’s philosophy and history. “I hold Mandela in high esteem but there is no doubt that many people believe that Mandela and the ANC betrayed South Africa’s black and brown people, leaving them materially worse off than they were during apartheid. What mainstream outlet explored that very real tension….? “What corporate news outlets have explored Mandela’s enthusiastic support of the Palestinian liberation movement, or his public contempt for the Israeli occupation?” Jeter continued. Still, some Black journalists were pleased with both the breadth and depth of the news media’s coverage of the iconic leader’s death. Sam Fulwood III, a senior fellow at the Center for American Progress who covered South Africa for the Baltimore Sun, said the coverage mirrored the “celebratory” nature of the funerals of slain activists which he witnessed during his reporting. “…I think our understanding of South Africa was heightened during the period that Mandela was president and the coverage of the country tracked toward the hope and optimism. I sensed some of that in the coverage of the funeral,” he told Prince.

“How do you ‘objectively’ cover the end of apartheid when you—like me—had gone to divestment rallies in college and played ‘Free Nelson Mandela’ at house parties?”

The Afro-American, December 21, 2013 - December 27, 2013

December 21, 2013 - December 21, 2013, The Afro-American

Three Blacks Among 32 American Recipients of Rhodes Scholarships The Black scholars are, according to JBHE: Jessica Wamala: A graduate of Three of the 32 Americans named Rhodes Villanova University who majored jbhe.com Scholars this year are African American, in political science, Arab and Islamic Wamala, Aiken and Brown according to the Journal of Blacks in Higher studies and global interdisciplinary Education. The scholarships provide funds for two or three studies, Wamala is working on her master’s in political science years of graduate study at Oxford University in Britain. Rhodes at Villanova and is captain of the university’s basketball team. Scholars from the United States join students from 14 other She is a chess enthusiast who will work on a master’s in Middle jurisdictions including Australia, southern Africa, Kenya, India, Eastern studies in England. and Canada. All told, about 80 Rhodes Scholars worldwide are Joshua Aiken: A published poet and senior at Washington selected each year for study at Oxford, the JBHE said. University in St. Louis, Aiken is majoring in American culture There were 1,750 Americans seeking the scholarships studies and political science. A resident of Eugene, Ore., he was this year. Of the 32 selected, six attended Harvard and three the undergraduate student representative on the university’s attended Yale, the publication said. board of trustees. He has been abroad before, studying in By Zenitha Prince AFRO Senior Correspondent

Northern Ireland and in Germany. He will pursue a master’s in sociology. Donald Mayfield Brown: An English and philosophy major at Mississippi State University, Brown previously studied English literature at Christ Church College at Oxford. At Mississippi State, he founded the creative arts journal and serves as vice president of the philosophy and religion club. He will work on a master’s degree in modern English literature at Oxford. The first Black person believed to have won a Rhodes scholarship was Alain LeRoy Locke, who went on to become a philosopher and literary figure of the Harlem Renaissance, was selected in 1907. “It is generally believed that at the time of the award the Rhodes committee did not know that Locke was Black until after he had been chosen,” the JBHE website said.

Dreaming Big Can be the Path to Success Special to the AFRO from the University of Maryland Eastern Shore No triskaidekaphobia – fear of the number 13 – only smiles, cheers and applause during today’s mid-year graduation exercises at the University of Maryland Eastern Shore. UMES awarded 335 degrees, including 274 to undergraduates who heard an uplifting message from a longtime friend and political ally of former President Bill Clinton. Richard L. Mays Sr., a former Arkansas state supreme court justice, deftly drew on recent current events as inspiration for his commencement speech to a near-capacity crowd in the William P. Hytche Athletic Center. He encouraged graduates to be dreamers and pointed to Nelson Mandela, who died a week ago. Mandela spent 27 years in jail for his activism as an anti-apartheid crusader, yet became president of the nation that put him behind bars for opposing government-sanctioned discrimination. “He had to dream,” Mays said. “I don’t know how I could dream that long,” adding “he forgave those who put him in captivity.” Mays also told graduates they should not take lightly President Barack Obama’s place in history. “I never thought I would be talking, in 2013, in the United States with an African-American president in office,” May said. “I know that he had to dream” to achieve getting elected to America’s highest office. “Dreaming is the responsibility of the have-nots” to find a pathway to overcome adversity, Mays said. Shana Washington of Philadelphia delivered the student

commentary and she, too, invoked Mandela, reminding classmates he famously said “education is the most powerful weapon, which you can use to change the world.” Washington chose to study at a historically black institution because it impressed her as a teen to see “so many AfricanAmericans as a whole working to better themselves.” “I knew higher education had not always been an option for

“Dreaming is the responsibility of the have-nots” to find a pathway to overcome adversity.” – Richard

L. Mays Sr.

Carnelious Jones in recognition of their contributions to the sport. Peete and Black were among the first AfricanAmericans to play on the PGA tour and Jones is campaigning to further diversify the game, including a donation to support scholarships at UMES. Jones, Black and Peete all said receiving the recognition will rank among their fondest memories. Also sporting medallions at Friday’s commencement were Ian Bottone, Siddig Mohamed, Ebony Odinde, Megan Powell and Brooke Stacey. They are the first graduates from the Richard A. Henson Honors Program to receive a new form of recognition from the university. All five had high enough grade point averages to graduate with honors. And Friday’s graduation also closed a chapter on an academic program in transition. Ten physician assistant undergraduate students are the last to receive a Bachelor of Science degree from UMES, which is now offering only a master’s-level program in the discipline. Earlier this year, the university admitted its first class of 36 graduate students.

us as black people,” the former student government president said. “And I wanted to take full advantage of the opportunity.” UMES President Juliette B. Bell took the opportunity to recognize two history-making sportsmen and a philanthropist who holds the duo in high regard. Bell presented presidential medallions to retired pro golfers Calvin Peete and James Black as well as From the NAACP Baltimore businessman Miami Gardens, Fla. – One day after the Florida State Conference of NAACP branches and its Miami-Dade County Branch asked Attorney General Eric Holder to direct the Justice Department to review the practice of intimidation by officers of the Miami Gardens Police Department against African American residents, Miami Gardens Police Chief Matthew Boyd resigned amid allegations that officers in his department have systematically committed civil rights violations against residents of city. “The Miami Gardens community deserves a police department that is committed to stopping crime and preserving justice,” stated Adora Obi Nweze, President of the NAACP Florida State Conference. “This is a good

Miami Gardens’ Police Practices Pressured by NAACP, Police Chief Quits

first step toward that goal, but hardly the last step. The systematic allegations of police intimidation did not happen because of just one person; they were the result of a sustained lack of oversight. We hope that the Miami Gardens Police Department will continue to work with the community on a fairer and more just system.” Many Miami Gardens residents have faced harassment and misconduct carried out by the Miami Gardens Police Department, related to a program called the Zero Tolerance Zone Initiative. Public records contain 27 video recordings from one store owner, Alex Saleh, who also filed a complaint with internal affairs. The recordings show police regularly questioning, frisking, and arresting people who not only have permission to be on the property, but also have not committed any crimes.

Michelle Howard Continued from A1

coming up, wanting to have their picture taken with me…” Howard won the Chairman Award earlier this year at the 44th Annual NAACP Image Awards. The Chairman’s Award winner is selected by organization Chairman Roslyn M. Brock to recognize someone who has served with distinction in the public arena. “Vice Admiral Howard is an inspiration for me and women of color across our country,” Brock said at the time. “Her service and achievements as a top-ranking officer in the U.S. Navy have paved the way for girls and young women to know their dreams can become their reality.” According to her official U.S. Navy bio, Howard is a 1978 graduate of Gateway High School in Aurora, Colo. Four years later, she graduated from the U. S. Naval Academy in Annapolis. She earned a master’s degree in Military Arts and Sciences from the U.S. Army’s Command and General Staff College in 1998. Howard served on several ships in the early years of her career. After commanding

the USS Rushmore, she commanded Amphibious Squadron Seven and deployed with the Expeditionary Strike Group (ESG) 5, whose operations included tsunami relief efforts in Indonesia and maritime security operations in the North Arabian Gulf. According to the bio, Howard served as commander of the Expeditionary Strike Group Two from April 2009 to July 2010. In 2010, she was the Maritime Task Force commander for BALTOPS, or Baltic Operations, under the 6th Fleet. On shore, her assignments have included serving as senior military assistant to the secretary of the Navy and deputy commander of the U.S. Fleet Forces Command, her bio said. According to Newsone.com, Howard is married to Wayne Cowles, a U.S. Marine Corps retiree. Her father was a master sergeant in the U.S. Air Force and by the time she was 12, she knew she wanted to follow him into military service. She attended only the third class in Annapolis to admit women.

Affordable Healthcare for the New Year In the District of Columbia, visit DCHealthLink.com by Dec. 27 for Jan. 1, 2014 coverage. D.C. residents should call 1-855-532-5465 for assistance. In Maryland log onto MarylandHealthCareConnection.gov. Navigators are available at the Consumer Support Center 1-855-6428572, with services for the deaf or hard of hearing at 1-855-642-8573.

The Afro-American, December 21, 2013 - December 21, 2013

December 21, 2013 - December 27, 2013, The Afro-American

Carter Memorial Continued from A1

Church of God In Christ, a Pentecostal church, will move into its new edifice, the former St. Peter, the city’s second-oldest Catholic church, on Dec. 29 at 11 a.m. Members of Carter will gather at the church’s current location on West Fayette Street for prayer before going over (some in cars, some on foot) to the 13 South Poppleton Street building for a ribbon-cutting ceremony and Sunday morning service. “I’m just so excited,” said Bricen Tate, who lives in Washington D.C. and began attending Carter in 2011 during his junior year at Morgan State University. “It is always something when you believe in a vision and the vision comes to pass. It says something about the ministry.” Pierce, who became the pastor of Carter in 2000 after the death of the former pastor, Bishop Frank J. Ellis, originally envisioned expanding the church’s current facility. But it later became clear, he said, that the church did not have space to grow sufficiently.

“Our plot of ground was not substantial enough to house what we were attempting to do,” Pierce said. He later learned that St. Peter, which had experienced years of declining attendance, was up for sale. The 170-year-old church, where Babe Ruth was baptized, is listed on the National Historic Registry. The exterior of the church is protected by local and national historic preservation laws and Pierce said that the upgrades made to the interior of the facility take the building to “another level of splendor and beauty.” “Any individual that was a member of St. Peter the Apostle Church, I believe, will walk in that building and be most impressed,” he said. The ministry complex includes several buildings that will be used for additional worship and ministry space, a “power center,” that will house activities for the youth and programs for community outreach. “I know this is a God-thing, something we

were meant to have,” said Jonathan Shepherd, who joined Carter in 2009 while doing his fellowship at Johns Hopkins. “There’s just so much that can be done with the property.” Unlike other churches that expand into the suburbs, Pierce said he was committed to remaining in the heart of Baltimore. “We’re vested here,” he said, noting that the church was founded by the Rev. James Carter more than six decades ago in the Poppleton community. “I’m a firm believer that God has called us to be an inner-city ministry that ministers healing, hope, love, forgiveness, guidance [and] encouragement to persons in Baltimore and, of course, the surrounding counties.” Pierce said he has been humbled to see how members, even those who were married, memorialized loved ones and were baptized at Carter, have embraced the move. Carter will hold a “homecoming” service on Dec. 22, at 5 p.m. for family and friends to come together to celebrate the church’s past and its future. Former members and pastors who began their ministries at the church over the last few decades are expected to attend the final service in Carter’s building on West Fayette Street.

For some, it will be a bittersweet moment. Yvette Brooks, who has been a member of Carter for more than 35 years, said: “It’s like moving from your childhood home after being there for all your life. But it’s a good thing. Change is good.” Alicia Lewis, 45, who has also attended Carter since she was a child, said she will miss the church building that she grew up in but realizes that Carter is outgrowing its current location. Lewis remembers when Pierce became pastor of Carter following Ellis’ death and said she has watched the church flourish under his leadership. Lewis said of Pierce: “He has such an open heart, and that’s what people are looking for.” Years ago, Lewis taught Vacation Bible School in the balcony of the church because of limited space. Hers wasn’t the only class in the balcony, she said. Lewis, who grew up in the Poppleton community, said she is looking forward to the move because it will enable the church to “do what we need to do for the neighborhood. It’s hard to do all we want to do in a small location.”

blockbusting and predatory lending. Today, Black Americans have $1 in assets for every $20 owned by White Americans, and, according to the study, more than half of it is tied to home ownership. Only 55 percent of the study’s Black respondents own their home, compared to 72 percent of White respondents. According to the report, 80 percent of Black college grads took out some amount of loans for their education, compared to 65 percent of Whites. Credit debt as a result of student loans can then affect career outcomes, as credit checks are sometimes part of the hiring process. Those with poor credit are often relegated to low-paying jobs due to this dubious but legal practice. In the study, an overwhelming 99 percent of indebted moderate-income African American households who had expenses related to starting or running a business in the past three years still carry that expense on their credit card bill. Interestingly, Black and White households reported different reasons for poor credit: 44 percent of White respondents cited late mortgage payments and using all or nearly all of their credit lines while 40 percent of Black households cited late student loan payments and credit report errors. However varied the causes, middle class credit use and debt levels are similar

across race—it’s the consequences that raise eyebrows. The report found that African Americans and Whites had similar rates of card default, late payments, bankruptcy, eviction, and repossession. However, 71 percent of African American households had been called by bill collectors, compared to 50 percent of White households. African Americans in the report were also more likely to report card cancellations, limit reductions, or credit rejections in the last three years (53 percent of Black respondents compared to 36 percent of Whites). Even if credit score isn’t a problem, indebted African American households face higher interest rates, reporting an average APR of 17.7 percent on the card where they carry the greatest balance compared to 15.8 percent for White households. Despite this, African American respondents were less likely to moderate their card use as a result of higher rates, which suggested to the authors that Black households have less of a choice in staying afloat. “…If you look at the report, you see that they’re using credit for basic living expenses,” Asante-Muhammad points out. “The problem isn’t around spending, the problem is income inequality, wealth inequality and a decline in opportunity for middle class African Americans as a whole.”

Credit Card Debt Threatens Black Middle Class By Jazelle Hunt NNPA Washington Correspondent

Middle-class Blacks are using credit to help cover their basic living expenses, according to a report from the NAACP and public policy research organization, Demos. In the recession’s aftermath, 79 percent of middle-class African-American households carry credit card debt. “Everybody needs credit but it should be a tool to help your economic life” said study co-author Dedrick Asante-Muhammad, senior director of the NAACP Economic Department. “Now we see it as a drain on African Americans trying to gain a middle-

class life.” Released earlier this month, the report, “The Challenge of Credit Card Debt for the African-American Middle Class,” found that 42 percent of households are relying on their cards for basic living expenses when income and savings fall short. “Use of credit in long term investments for the future is a specific African American problem, largely because of the historical impact of racism in wealth building, and current racial bias in lending,” said study coauthor and Demos policy analyst Catherine Ruethschlin. The seeds for economic disparities seen today were sown over 50 years of redlining,

Journalist Byron Pitts to Keynote Historic Morgan State Commencement

Special to the AFRO from Morgan State University

ABC News anchor and tenured journalist Byron Pitts will serve as the commencement speaker for Morgan State University’s inaugural December commencement exercises, to be held on December 20 beginning at 10:00 a.m. in the Carl J. Murphy Fine Arts Center. Pitts, a native of Baltimore, MD will address more than 300 graduates in the history-making ceremony, and will receive an honorary degree of humane letters 42 years after his mother, Clarice Pitts, graduated from Morgan with a bachelor’s in sociology. Morgan officials say his appearance is fitting for the historic occasion. “Byron Pitts is a journalist of the highest regard, and has contributed a great deal to the public discourse on key issues of our generation,” says Morgan State President David Wilson. “We are excited about his visit to the campus, and eager for our graduates to draw from his experiences as a seasoned professional in the journalism industry.” The winter commencement will feature the university’s first graduates from its newly established School of Global Journalism and Communication. Shay Tyrell, current president of Morgan’s National Association of Black Journalists’ chapter, says her time earning a bachelor’s degree in multi-platform production has been invaluable to her professional development. “It’s really amazing to be one of the first

Courtesy Photo

Byron Pitts students to graduate from the school,” said the Westchester County, NY native. “I didn’t get to experience it as much as I would’ve liked, but this semester was full of wonderful experiences.” Pitts reports across ABC full platform of traditional and digital media properties, including ‘Good Morning, America’ and ’20/20.’

The Afro-American, December 21, 2013 - December 27, 2013

COMMUNITY CONNECTION New Associate Minister Named for Silver Spring Church

he was director of the Mary Lou Williams Center for Black Culture at Duke University and taught music there. He is currently writing a book on spiritual growth and radical forgiveness.

The Rev. Dr. Leon Dunkley has been called as associate minister of the Unitarian Universalist Church of Silver Spring by the unanimous vote of the congregation. He has served the church as assistant minister since August 2012, joining senior minister, the Rev. Elizabeth Lerner Maclay. A graduate of Starr King School for the Ministry in Berkeley, Calif., Dr. Dunkley also holds a Ph.D. in ethnomusicology from the University of Pittsburgh and an undergraduate degree from Tufts University. He brings not only his training and experience as a minister to the church but also his wide-ranging musical interests. These include the traditional drumming of Ghana and the Republic of Zaire, the Kora tradition of Senegal, the Gamelan traditions of Java and Bali in Indonesia, and jazz traditions in the Americas as well as Bluegrass and Country Blues. He sings and plays several instruments, including guitar, piano, conga, gangogwe (West African double bell) and didjeridu. Rev. Dunkley previously served Unity Church—Unitarian in St. Paul, Minnesota. Before deciding to become a minister,

Farmers’ Market and Bazaar Shuts Down with Holiday Shopping

The Baltimore Farmers’ Market and Bazaar wraps up its 36th season with options for holiday shoppers. During the holiday season, market-goers can purchase everything needed for festive meals including the region’s freshest apples, pears, citrus fruit, sweet potatoes, greens, honey, nuts, turkeys, goat and other meats, fish, dairy, breads and spices. Farmers also offer wreaths, Christmas trees and other decorative greenery. Additionally, shoppers are encouraged to browse the bazaar for handmade jewelry, vintage clothing, unique collectibles and more gift ideas. Located on Saratoga Street between Holliday and Gay streets, underneath the Jones Falls Expressway (JFX), the Baltimore Farmers’ Market and Bazaar remains open Sundays through Dec. 22, 7 a.m. to noon. The market returns for its 37th year, April 6 to Dec. 21, 2014. Shoppers can stay in touch with the market and participating vendors all year long on Facebook at www. facebook.com/BmoreFarmersMarket and Twitter at www. twitter.com/bmorefarmersmkt. For more information on the Baltimore Farmers’ Market & Bazaar, call 410-752-8632 or visit www.promotionandarts.org.

Santa Joins MTA Patrons On Holiday Bus

Courtesy Photo

Rev. Dr. Leon Dunkley

The MTA recently rolled out the annual Holiday Bus. Operating on different routes throughout the month of December, the Holiday Bus will make regular stops while in service but passengers will NOT be required to pay the regular fare. The specially decorated bus, complete with Santa and two elves will run Monday through Friday throughout December and will operate on various local bus routes across the city. Times will vary in an effort to reach as many customers as possible. Passengers will be greeted by Santa and his elves, who will hand out free candy canes while holiday music adds

to the festive ambiance. “Bringing our riders features such as the Holiday Bus is part of the reason I am excited to be back at the MTA,” said Robert Smith, MTA Administrator & CEO. “Helping to deliver the spirit of the season to riders, along with the kind of public transportation our passengers deserve, is a great way to celebrate the holiday.” For the latest information on MTA service, passengers are urged to check the MTA website at www.mta.maryland.gov. Customers can also call the MTA Transit Information Contact Center Monday through Friday from 6 a.m. to 7 p.m. at 410539-5000. TTY 410-539-3497. To sign up for email about service modifications and delays, go to www.mta.maryland. gov/enotifications. Visit MTA’s Facebook page at https://www. facebook.com/mtamaryland or Twitter feed at http://twitter. com/mtamaryland for more sources of updated information.

The Dyslexia Tutoring Program Needs Volunteers!

Please help us to reach out to members of the Greater Baltimore community by sharing our request for volunteers as a public service announcement. The Dyslexia Tutoring Program’s mission is to teach reading to low-income children and adults with dyslexia or a languagebased learning difference at no cost to the student. Our clients are assessed and then tutored weekly by volunteers whom we have trained in The OrtonGillingham method of reading, writing, and spelling. Please spread the news about this valuable volunteer opportunity. Could you reply to let us know that you have received our request? We would love to know when and where you will share our message, so we don’t miss it! Check out our website: http://www.dyslexiatutoringprogram. org or call 410-889-5487.

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December 21, 2013 - December 27, 2013, The Afro-American

OPINION

Nelson Mandela’s Legacy Last week, I was privileged to be included in a U.S. congressional delegation that attended President Nelson Mandela’s memorial service in South Africa. The experience was an inspiring one, just as Nelson Mandela’s life uplifted so many of us in decades past. I readily acknowledge that I was in need of the inspiration I received in South Africa. President Mandela’s passing marked Elijah Cummings the end of a difficult year for our world, and, especially, for those of us whose lives are troubled by poverty, conflict, violence or personal loss. Nelson Mandela’s life offered guidance and hope to us all. The Power of Forgiveness On the long flight from Washington to Africa, I kept recalling a meeting with Nelson Mandela that I was privileged to attend back in 2005. Of all the wisdom that he shared with me at that time, what moved me the most was his reflections about how he felt when leaving prison after 27 years behind bars. It was a lesson in the liberating power of forgiveness. “I knew I was free,” President Mandela observed, “but I couldn’t be completely free unless I forgave those who oppressed me.” Nelson Mandela’s compelling insight into the forgiving power of the human spirit is expressed in virtually every religious tradition – the calling to love our enemies and those who have oppressed or spited us. As we pause to reflect during this holiday season, each of us knows that this spiritual wisdom about the power of forgiveness is the truth. Yet, at times, we find it extraordinarily difficult to follow this guiding principle when we, ourselves, are being attacked or harmed. Nelson Mandela’s example reminds us that our own struggles to free our hearts from bitterness and rancor are worth our engagement. He succeeded in harnessing our God given power of forgiveness – and that success allowed him to unite his country and serve as an example for the world. The Power of Humility

Forgiving those who have harmed us allows us the clarity of mind to realize another essential truth. Powerful and effective as a leader, Nelson Mandela touched the king and the janitor in the same way. In the process of triumphing on the South African stage, he became a positive example for our entire world. At the core of this continuing impact was his humility. His example reminds us that we all are ordinary people who are called to the extraordinary mission of forging a better and more humane world. The Power of a Positive Vision Nelson Mandela’s life teaches us that personal humility expands, not limits, our ability to engage the world in a positive way. Humility allowed his strong sense of mission to become a force for good, rather than an end or obstacle in itself. He gained the ability to free his nation from the bondage of servitude by first freeing his own spirit. President Mandela’s long years of struggle taught him that, all too often, we allow our fears, anger or insecurities to forge internal chains that limit the power of our hearts and minds. “Do not be pushed by your fears and problems,” he often observed. “Be led by your hopes and dreams.” Nelson Mandela’s Legacy His vision of the path to lasting freedom may well be Nelson Mandela’s most empowering lesson and legacy. Life can often be difficult, both for us as individuals and for the societies in which we live. This we know all too well. Yet, the shining teaching of a single, enlightened human being from South Africa rekindled hope in our troubled world. If we free ourselves from bitterness and anger, if we live in humility and dedication to the welfare of others, if we stand on our highest principles and have faith, we, too, can create a better day for our families and for the generations yet to be

Blackonomics–The Tax Man Cometh

When the tax man cometh, Black dollars “goeth.” Where will they goeth? Down a myriad of paths in pursuit of new items such as furniture, cars, clothing, and other niceties. But first, unless you do your own tax return or get it done for free by someone, Black dollars goeth to tax preparation firms, the vast majority of which are not owned by Black people. I can hear the two excuses James Clingman right now: “I don’t know where to find a Black tax firm;” and “I don’t want ‘them’ to know my business.” The first one I can deal with, but the second excuse just blows my mind.

Nonetheless, let’s see if we can get the conscious ones out there to give a Black-owned company some business. There are many independent Black-owned and operated tax preparation firms, but there is one I have written about for years now that I strongly encourage you to support. With more than 200 offices in various cities, Compro Tax is the oldest and largest Black-owned tax/financial assistance firm in the country. Go to the website, comprotax.net, and find the office closest to you. In keeping with my theme of economic empowerment, this is about Black business in general, not just one individual business. This is about doing what every other group in this country does in a “competently unconscious” way. They support one another and grow their businesses to the point of being able to provide jobs for their own children. What many of us do is simply get mad and complain about them instead of doing what they are doing. The more we pass our dollars around to one another, the more empowered we become and the stronger we will be, even to the point of building and maintaining a solid unshakeable

born. These are not new lessons. They date back to the recorded beginnings of humanity and live at the core of every religious tradition. In my own life, I have been lifted up by Nelson Mandela’s personal example of the kind of human being we each should aspire to become – selfless, loving, and dedicated to justice for every man, woman and child in our world. During this holiday season, it is my hope and prayer that Nelson Mandela will continue to enlighten our community. Were he still with us in this life, I believe that he would remind us that our winter prayers express our highest aspirations. From our differing faith traditions, we receive the Hope central to Christmas, the Light of Hanukkah, the peace of Islam and the unity of Kwanza. “We are children of the same God,” our prayers proclaim. “We belong to the same human family - and we need not be alone in the darkness.” We can be confident that President Mandela would agree. Congressman Elijah Cummings represents Maryland’s Seventh Congressional District in the U.S. House of Representatives.

economic foundation for our young people. We will also provide them with the proper examples of what they, in turn, should do. So, while this is not entirely about Compro Tax, I do encourage you to seek them out, as well as other Blackowned tax preparation firms in your city. You will develop relationships with some great people, and you will be exposed to an opportunity to open your own tax preparation business. Taxes comprise a recession-proof industry, as you well know, because no matter what the economy does, the tax man will cometh; and your tax dollars, preparation fees and refunds, will goeth to someone. Make every effort to make them goeth to a Black business. Jim Clingman, founder of the Greater Cincinnati African American Chamber of Commerce, is the nation’s most prolific writer on economic empowerment for Black people. He is an adjunct professor at the University of Cincinnati and can be reached through his Web site, blackonomics.com.

The RNC Twitter “Mistake” Wasn’t a Mistake

The Republican Party’s inability to prevent some of its elected officials and party operatives from making racist and sexist remarks and tamp down others’ penchant for cringe-worthy gaffes along those lines necessitates a slight revising of that old saying: It’s always like déjà vu all over again. Last week, it was – actually for just a moment – the Republican National Lee A. Daniels Committee’s sole turn in the spotlight. On Dec. 1, it sought via a tweet to mark the anniversary of the 1955 arrest of Rosa Parks, the legendary incident that provoked the famous Montgomery (Ala.) Bus Boycott and the start of the Civil Rights Movement of the 1950s and 1960s: “Today we remember Rosa Parks’ bold stand and her role in ending racism,” it said. The blogosphere and {Twitter}universe immediately exploded with derisive reminders that racism and racial segregation continued long after the victory of the bus boycott movement in overturning segregation on the Montgomery buses. Not until the next day did the RNC issue a corrective tweet – implicitly acknowledging it’s worthwhile getting the facts and consequences of history exactly right: “Previous tweet, should

have read ‘Today we remember Rosa Parks’ bold stand and her role in fighting to end racism.’” Unfortunately, Rep. Duncan Hunter (D-Calif.) soon added to the GOP’s reputation for offensiveness when, in a Dec. 2 interview on CSPAN, he declared that lying “is part of Middle Eastern culture.” Hunter added for good measure that “In the Middle Eastern culture it is looked upon with very high regard to get the best deal possible, no matter what it takes, and that includes lying.” Later, Hunter’s spokesman made a weak stab at damage control, claiming he was only referring to the leaders of Middle Eastern countries, not their entire populations. Has there been a week in the last five years – since Barack Obama took the oath of office as the 44th president of the United States – in which some Republican politico in a low or high position has not been exposed as the author of a racist, sexist and/or homophobic e-mail, video, tweet, or remark? There must be some kind of mechanism virtually implanted in the minds of Republicans these days that goes ringgggggg— your turn!compelling someone somewhere in its elective-office or operational structure to make particularly outlandish remarks or claims that underscore the breadth of the backward attitudes that rule the Party. If it’s not Sen. Rand Paul (R-Ky.) who earlier this year wrongly lecturing students at predominantly Black Howard University on some elementary facts of Black American history, it’s Rep. Steve King (R-Iowa) weirdly asserting last July that many undocumented immigrants who had come to the U.S. as children had actually been ferrying drugs – in “calves the size of cantaloupes because they’ve been hauling 75 pounds

of marijuana across the desert.” There are many, many more examples one could cite, ranging from the picayune to the deeply disgusting. And they are just a portion of the voluminous evidence that bigotry itself has become a more and more powerful congenital virus within the GOP. These “gaffes” and “mistakes” GOP officials keep making aren’t gaffes or mistakes. They are at this stage of its existence markers of what the GOP is: the party where bigotry thrives. Indeed, earlier this year the Republican National Committee itself was victimized by that sickness. In the wake of the November 2012 shellacking in the presidential election, the party announced it would develop a “Growth and Opportunity” agenda to win back the White House in 2016. Making concerted efforts to appeal to voters of color and other key groups of the winning Democratic coalition was high on the report’s list of recommendations. The response of the Republican Party leadership? They, in effect, looked the other way as conservative think-tankers and the GOP-allied pundits savaged the document – and immediately began suggesting the GOP could win the White House in 2016 just by doubling down on its appeal to White voters only. No doubt the large majority of copies of the RNC report are resting comfortably at the bottom of the Potomac River. And by the time this column will be read, there’ll be one, or two, or three or more similar Republican Party “mistakes” and “gaffes” to add to the list. Lee A. Daniels is a veteran journalist based in New York City.

The Afro-American, December 21, 2013 - December 27, 2013

HEALTH Under the Affordable Care Act, Uninsured Marylanders Gain Health Care Coverage works at the Excellent Start Learning Center in Windsor Mill. She is one of the many workers As the Dec. 27 deadline is looming for in the state who are employed but uninsured. all who want health coverage, effective Jan. “It’s been a while since I’ve had health 1, 2014, the Maryland health officials and insurance,” said Roberts. Although she its team of certified navigators are stepping has spent the last 10 years in the childcare up their efforts to reach those still in need of industry, her $23,000 annual income insurance. means she is earning too much to qualify Navigators are persons trained and certified for Medicaid and too little to afford highby the state priced health to help insurance from consumers private firms enroll in that charge up extended to $800 per Medicaid, the month for a state insurance woman in this plan for the age group. low income or into private health insurance “These are the very people we want to plans called Qualified Health Plans. To best reach and enroll into the Qualified Health reach consumer’s enrollment events are held in Plans made available through the Maryland different communities throughout the state. Health Connection,” said Priscilla Chatman, a Certified navigators from Chatman, LLC certified navigator and president of Chatman, were recently in Randallstown to educate LLC. The childcare worker was one of the many who showed up Dec. 14 and successfully enrolled in a qualified health plan with an advanced premium tax credit of $149. This is very similar – Denise Roberts to the child tax credit many are Maryland residents on the Affordable Care Act familiar with. (“ACA”), answer their questions, and enroll What’s more, Roberts qualified for a costthem in health insurance through the Maryland sharing reduction of 73 percent. This means Health Connection. One very pleased when she receives medical treatment, she will consumer was Denise Roberts, a 47-year-old only have to pay 27 percent of the cost. If the day care teacher who lives in Baltimore and medical bill is $100, Ms. Roberts will pay $27. By AFRO Staff

“It’s been a while since I’ve had health insurance.”

Courtesy Photo

Denise Roberts claps her hands with joy at the news that she now has health insurance. The certified navigator who guided her through the enrollment process was “very helpful to me in this process. He answered all of my questions, and explained everything

so I understood,” said Roberts. “I don’t get sick often, but when I did, I had to pay out of pocket for it. Now, I’m just very excited to have health insurance.”

Holiday Season Puts Strain on Families in Need By Colleen Wilson Capital News Service ANNAPOLIS – Maryland food banks tend to see an influx of families during the holiday season, but this year local pantries are seeing more people in need because of cuts to food stamps. Now, food pantries are counting on donations from the community to keep supplies

stocked. “We always see an increase [in need] around the holiday,” said Kate Sam, spokeswoman for the Maryland Food Bank, based in Baltimore. “This occurs all yearround, and it’s grown a lot over the last five years since the recession. Our distribution has more than tripled since 2007.” Sam said this year has

been especially tough for families, which was evident, she said, by the numbers. “Our distribution this past July was what it would have been in November just a few years ago,” she said. “This year the demand is growing even more, which we think definitely has to do with the recent [reduction in] SNAP benefits.” SNAP, which stands for

the Supplemental Nutritional Aid Program, is funded by the government and provides low-income families with food stamps and nutrition education. The American Recovery and Reinvestment Act, created in 2009 to increase funds for SNAP benefits in response to the recession, expired Nov. 1. In addition, Congress is currently debating the House

prepared

Is your home

of Representatives’ version of the farm bill that would cut SNAP’s program funds by $40 billion. “We’re looking at it as an edge of a cliff right now,” said Sam. “The Maryland Food Bank and every food bank across the nation would need to double the amount of food just to maintain the amount of hunger. There’s 50 million people that are food insecure right now.” Cathy Bird, executive director of Annapolisbased Food Link, said the holiday season is more about maintaining tradition rather than about gifts for struggling families. “They [families] don’t have the means to provide a Thanksgiving dinner by taking away from their food budget

through the normal year,” Bird said. “With Christmas, it’s the same thing. If you can’t afford a holiday meal, you sure as heck can’t afford gifts.” While there is increased need in the winter season, there is also increased giving. “We have a lot more people that are willing to help around the holidays,” Bird said. Going forward, Sam said they are reaching out to more people and garnering support. “Our focus right now is continuing to strengthen what we’re doing and getting out to the public that this is an issue the public needs to be aware of,” Sam said. “Maryland food banks can’t do it alone; we can’t end hunger alone. It’s just going to take a lot of partners at the table.”

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December 21, 2013 -December 27, 2013, The Afro-American

couragEd hosted its first annual NcouragED Educator Legend’s luncheon, Nov. 25, at the Shiloh Christian Community Church to recognize educators from the midAtlantic region who have made significant contributions over longstanding careers. The theme of the event was “The faithful are never forgotten.” “Eleven hundred years of experience are spread among these honorees,” said NcouragED’s executive director, Dr. Ronald C. Williams, of the 25 legends. NcouragED is a non-partisan, non-sectarian, virtual network of educators who support each other through encouragement, camaraderie, information, and resource sharing. “We are building a national network of educators who recognize the value of high morale. Parents don’t want discouraged educators in front of their children all day,” Dr. Williams said.

Mack Sampson receives the Legends' Award from Valerie Allen, Lisa Robinson, and Fandreia Bowman

Ernestine Dunston and Dr. Brenda Conley

Donald Jones received the Legend's award for Jerrelle F. Francois

State Del. Melvin Stukes and Joann Harvin-Blackston 7

Valerie Allen introduces the guest speaker

Rev. William Bailey sang the Negro National Anthem

Kellie Amprey accepted the award for her father, Dr. Walter G. Amprey

Honored Legends

12. Dr. Ruth J. K. Pratt

1. Dr. Ruth Brown

13. Dr. Jean Ragin

2. Dr. Anne O. Emery

14. Matthew Riley Jr.

3. Bonnie Erickson

15. William H. Shaw

5. Dr. Leah Goldsborough Hasty

9. Dr. Audrey McCallum

16. Annette Hall Somerville

6. Dr. Joe Hairston

10. Dr. Patricia MorrisWelch

4. Ricardo Gamble

7. Mildred Harris

Rev. David Carter and Sharon Gamble

11. Legend Dr. Mary R. Nicholsonne

8. Horace Love Sr.

Judy and James Smith

17. Joan Stukes 18. Sylvia Twiggs 19. John Washington

Dr. Ronald Williams, granddaughter, Laila and wife Cindy Williams

19 Photos by Dr. A Lois De Laine

Hostesses from Coppin State University; Chauna Watson, Brittany Skinner, Angela Patterson

Dr. Warren Hayman gave the keynote address

I President of the City Council Bernard “Jack” Young giving remarks

t was an evening of great celebration when friends and fans turned out for the birthday party for WOLB 1010 AM Radio’s morning personality, former Sen. Larry Young, Nov. 26, at Mo’s Seafood Restaurant. State delegates

Jeanette Payne and Sen. Young

and senators, Baltimore’s Mayor and Council people – all had a kind word of encouragement and appreciation for his friendship and his service to the community for many years. Travis Winkey was on hand with members of his fashion company as was the senator’s morning sidekick, Coach Butch McAdams.

Brian Howell and Carlton Douglas

Glen Middleton, Lena Redmond and Douglas Page

Photos by J.D. Howard

Larry Young and Sherri Hunt

Kevin Parsons, State Del. Nathanial Oaks, Police School Commissioner Marshall Toby Goodwin and Sherrod Foster

Coach Butch McAdams, Larry's co-host

From left, Alexander Dobson, Rev. Mike Jenson Sr., A. Dwight Pettit, Michael Jenson Jr. and Sterling S. Scribner Sr.

George Arnold opens with prayer

Sen. Joan Conway, Bishop Douglas Miles and Mayor Stephanie Rawlings Blake

Marion Starkes and Gloria Madeline Campbell

Marilyn McDonald and Alice Shelton

Farhad Jafari, owner of Mo's Seafood restaurant and Travis Winkey

Larry Young and Rodney Orange Jr

Sheriff John Anderson and Henry Martin

Travis Winkey models, Lauriel Brooks, Shannon Anderson, Angela Garten, LaKisha Ellis, Kelly Ward and Chyna Allen.

The Afro-American, December 21, 2013 - December 27, 2013

The Rev. Arnold Howard, pastor of Enon Baptist Church, the Rev. Willie Ray, the honoree and G. I. Johnson

Tony Randall and Rev. Willie Ray

Capt. Bernard Douglas, Baltimore Police Department

Bilal Ali, representing Councilman Nick Mosby

Carolyn A. Atkins, DPSCS ; James Shields, DPSCS ; Rev. Ray and Capt. Bernard Douglas, Baltimore Police Department

Rev. Ray with Charles Neverdon, Ronald Christmas, Sherrie Neverdon-Christmas and Betty Jean Young

Bishop Michael Watson and Denise Watson, Caroline Robinson and Dr. Gerald Stancil

Rev. Theresa Mercer, Dr, Gerald Stancil and Cassie Gilliam

Hope Williams, special assistant to Rep. Elijah Cummings

Rev. Jerome Stephens, statewide representative for Sen. Ben Cardin

Curtis Evans, Melvin Williams and Dwight Burley Sr.

Brenda Allen Graham, Rev. Theresa Mercer and Karen Curtis

Eunice Mercer, Corrine Connor , Deborah Murphy and Cassie Gilliam

Mercer Mackel, with his sons Zackery, Justin and Damien hold the personally signed card for Rev. Mercer

Elder Ernest D. Randolph

Victor Clark and Jerome Stephens

Warren Garrison

The first time people were asked to join hands across Baltimore, from one end of North Avenue to the other, it was at the request of the Rev. Willie Ray who’d had enough of the violence that was then relatively new, but just as virulent as today. So when the community celebrates his ministry, they celebrate his work with young children, his work on the corners, his support of devastated families and his echoing salvo – Stop the Violence. The Nov. 21 gathering at Enon Baptist Church was such an occasion and many just wanted to say “thanks” for an ongoing job well done. The Rev. Arnold Howard was host pastor and the Rev. Jimmy Baldwin was the keynote speaker at the event for which the Honorable Kweisi Mfume Michele Brown, served as assistant to Sen. emcee. Barbara Mikulski

“Really?!”

Rev. Theresa Mercer, her children, grandchildren and great grandchildren

More than 100 friends and family members showed up for the surprise 70th birthday party for Rev. Theresa Mercer, “Surprise!!!!” Nov. 29 at the Gala Center. “God has been and truly is so wonderful to me. He was and is the leader and the guide for my ministry. My journey with God has been wonderful and His awesomeness still overwhelms me,” Rev. Mercer said. “I never could have ever imagined how great He is, and I believe my work is still not done.” Early in her ministry, Rev. Mercer served as the AFRO church editor, which inspired her to co-found a publication, “From My Heart to Yours,” along with her daughters, Theresa Smith Harris and Lynn Mercer Mackel. The publication was dedicated to strengthening families by only publishing good news.

Andre Rush, Renee Rush, Sheri McPhersonTammy Rush and Andre Rush

Rev. Maybelle Hickman, Bishop Patricia Stuart, Joan Arrington and Rev. Marsha Thompkins

Rev. Mercer with Caroline Robinson and her cousin, Rev. Isaac James.

Linda and Samuel Mackel with Rev. Mercer

Tiffany Stith with Michael and Nathaniel Frempong sign the giant birthday card.

Rev. Theresa Mercer, Rev. Geraldine James, her aunt and Elder Marlene Lewis

Bobby Boyd and Constance Buckley

Rev. Theresa Mercer , with her daughters Theresa Harris and Lynn Mercer Mackel

December 21, 2013 - December 27, 2013, The Afro-American

ARTS & CULTURE

22nd Annual Golden Scissors Competition a Snowy-Day Hit world, officials said. The third show, the Golden Scissors Despite icy roads and Consumer event, featured four snowy weather, hundreds of consumer-driven competitions hair enthusiasts converged where winners walked away on the Silver Spring Civic with $1,000 each. Building for the 22nd Annual “This year we [paid] Golden Scissors Awards on homage to the African Dec. 8. This year’s event community for the massive was entitled contributions it HairAfrica— has made to the The Great Hair hair and beauty Expedition. industry,” said The event Jackson, owner included three of Glynn Jackson shows, each the Agency. of which was “African culture presented to a has influenced so filled-to-capacity much of what we audience in the consider today Montgomery to be ‘popular County facility’s culture’ that we auditorium. felt compelled “It moved to acknowledge Donja Long won the Kidz me to tears to this in a grand Division Stage Competition. Courtesy Photos see people come and over-the-top, historical way.” Hair, he said, is a universal issue. “Hair is the very fabric that weaves our communities together, and even though we may be different, our similarities are evident through hair,” Jackson said. The 2013 winners included: The BOBBI BOSS™ America’s Next Top Stylist Glynn Jackson, Golden Scissors Awards Winners: founder presents an award to Christian 1st Place: Travis Douglas, Tillery for his design, right. Columbia, S.C. 2nd Place: Doris Carr, from every corner of the work and push the envelope Richmond, Va. country to be a part of the of creativity, Jackson said. 3rd Place: Casmeras show,” said Glynn Jackson, This year’s competition Reavis, Philadelphia, Pa. the creator and founder of included the Golden Scissors 4th Place: Derick Watson, the Golden Scissors Awards. Kids, is a showcase and Atlanta, Ga. “We even had people come competition featuring children Salon Presentation from overseas to attend the aged 3-17. The Golden Winners: show. I am honored that Scissors Awards, the second 1st place: Spice of New people respect the work we show, featured the hottest York—Marquitta Graham, have done in this community, hair professionals in the Augusta, Ga. 2nd Place: FIFI Braids— The Ethiopian Master Hair Braider, Silver Spring, Md. 3rd Place: Tanesha Hines for Posh Hair Salon, District of Columbia HairGAGA Avante Gaarde Fantasy Category Winner: Marie Gardner-Newport News, Va. Weave Diva Winner: LaShonda Green (model)— By AFRO Staff

as well as internationally, enough to come and show their love for the Golden Scissors Awards.” The Golden Scissors Awards was created in 1991 as a local, national, and international platform for hairstylists to showcase their

INVITES YOU AND A GUEST TO A SPECIAL ADVANCE SCREENING

EMAIL: CUSTOMERSERVICE@AFRO.COM TO REGISTER TO WIN TICKETS! NO PURCHASE NECESSARY. Supplies are limited. One pass per winner. Each pass admits two. Seating is not guaranteed and is on a first-come, first-served basis. Employees of all promotional partners and the afro american are not eligible. All decisions are final.

IN THEATERS JANUARY 10

Travis Douglas (stylist), Columbia, S.C. Loc Star Winner: Albertine African & American Hair Braiding, Gaitherburg, Md. and Shanti WalkerMadame Walker Braidery,

District Heights, Md. Barber Total Look Winner: Christian Tillery, Baltimore, Md. Stage Competition Winner: Kidz Division: Donja Long of Traffic Salon,

Baltimore, Md. For more information or to get updates on next year’s event, HairGames: Winter 2014, go to www. goldenscissorsawards.com.

Happy Holidays from the The Afro-American, December 21, 2013 - December 27, 2013

The Week Before Christmas at the AFRO (Read to the rhythm of ‘The Night Before Christmas’)

‘Twas a week before Christmas and all around the AFRO, All the editors were scurrying to get the paper ready to go. The stories had been edited and sent to Production with care, With hopes that fresh printed copies soon would be there. The reporters were working their next stories with care, In hopes that if they finished quickly, some days off would be there. When all of a sudden there came such a ruckus, Everybody in the newsroom wondered what was among us! Through the door came a source with late breaking news,

The kind that was likely to draw mad Afro. com page views. Seems children walking on Charles Street had spied A Black Santa and eight reindeer and when they waved, St. Nick skied! “On, Dasher! On, Dancer! On, Prancer and Vixen! On, Comet! On, Cupid! On Donder and Blitzen! To the top of the building! To the end of the street! You dash away quickly while these pictures I tweet!” Avis Thomas-Lester, Circa 12/17/2013

The Best Gift You Ever Received By Avis Thomas-Lester AFRO Executive Editor The best gift you ever received: I wanted to be a newspaper woman since I was a little girl. For Christmas when I was 11, Santa brought me my own typewriter. It was beautiful—baby blue with a hard case. My parents got me all the accessories. I started my own little newspaper typing on it that summer— The Thomas Tattler. The gift that you most want: I just want my family to continue to be blessed. If I were to think materially, though I don’t need it, I’d like a Chanel bag. Black. Or Botox on the 11s between my eyes that came from squinting over a computer all these years. I don’t really need that either. Your favorite Christmas memory: The year that my son, Zack, was 3, he wanted a real tree. We put up seven trees, all faux, but that year he wanted a real one. We went

By Gregory Dale AFRO News Editor The best gift you ever received: When I was a kid, I was a really big fan of the Home Alone franchise, so I had to have the Tiger Talkboy when it came out. It was a voice recorder and cassette player and it allowed you to manipulate the sounds you recorded. At 5 years old, I was pretty mischievous and I really enjoyed taping conversations that I wasn’t supposed to hear! The gift that you most want: Oddly enough, I need a new voice recorder for work. The one that I’ve used since college stopped working and I’ve been using my iPhone to record certain things. However, it’s really starting to

to the lot and he fell in love with the oddest shaped three there. It was full on the front, but the back was completely flat. He called it a “triangle tree.” We brought it home and decorated it, but it was front heavy and he knocked it

down three times playing with the ornaments. My husband ended up bolting it to the wall somehow. Zack’s 20 now. Your favorite Christmas song: “This Christmas” by Donnie Hathaway. I have DH’s greatest hits CD in my car all the time and play the song frequently. I love it! Your favorite family holiday tradition: We go to a Christmas Eve service at another church. Even though we love our collections of Most of the angels and Black Nativity scenes, each service is year the highpoint of decorating the caroling and house is the unwrapping and placement it ends with of “The Crackhead Santas.” Why are they a beautiful called that? Notice the expressions on candletheir faces! And their leans. lighting

ceremony. The pastor’s wife, bless her heart, has a very high-pitched voice. She sings a favorite song each year and we can’t help but giggle. We’ve all almost choked trying. Afterwards, we come home, have hot chocolate and Christmas cookies and read the story of the birth of Jesus together. I love it even more than Christmas Day. What kind of year was 2013 for you: 2013 was a tough year for our family. Zack had some health challenges. My husband, James, changed jobs after many years and we lost our beloved Freda, my husband’s sister. But we survived. Our faith and strength as a family had never been tested before, but this year proved that we are blessed and strong and we came out of it. As the gospel song says, the Lesters are still “Standing,” thanks to God’s grace. Zack is healthy, James is working and Freda’s with God. We’re looking forward to 2014.

drain my battery and take up a Do at Christmas?” by the lot of space. Emotions. It’s a somber song, Your favorite Christmas but I love the beat and I think memory: One year, when I it really shows another side of was a kid, my mother wanted Christmas that is a reality for to teach me and my sister the some people. In a way, I think true meaning of Christmas. it opens your eyes and helps According to her, that year you remember those who we were acting like brats. To don’t have anyone to spend teach us a lesson, she took the holidays with. us to a homeless shelter where we gave out gifts to the less fortunate. It was a significant moment for me because it truly made me grateful for the things that I already had. Tiger Talkboy Subsequently, we made it an annual Christmas Eve ritual. Your favorite family Your favorite Christmas holiday tradition: After song: “What Do the Lonely Christmas, most people are

finished celebrating, at least until New Year’s. Not my family. We go to each and every person’s house in the immediate family in the days after Christmas to eat, drink and have a good time. It was a tradition that was started long before I was born and I intend to keep it going when I have a family of my own. What kind of year was 2013 for you: 2013 was definitely a year of change for me. A lot of changes happened to me in my personal life— both good and bad. However, I do think that every single experience that I’ve had this year has groomed me into a stronger and wiser person. With these experiences under my belt, I’m now ready to take on 2014 with a new set of goals and aspirations.

The best gift you ever received: One of the best gifts I ever received was a personal tea set with a pot for brewing that rested in a sizeable mug. It wasn’t expensive. It wasn’t even my favorite color. But it was so special to me because I had only worked with my

The editors were sitting around the other day contemplating holiday gifts we’d been given, things we’d purchased for loved ones and the state of the current economy. In keeping with that, we came up with a list of gifts that we believe will show the recipient lots of love without breaking the giver’s bank account. We hope you like these as much as we do! 1. A star. There are companies out there that allow you to purchase a star and name it for a loved one. Can you imagine a better gift? What a thrill to locate the star and brag to friends that it bears your name! 2. Genetic testing kit. With so much interest in finding our roots, a kit that allows a loved one to determine their racial genetic makeup and to match the components to African nations would be a perfect gift! 3. Lay-away payoff. Can you imagine the thrill you would give someone if you paid off their layaway before Christmas? If not that, how about asking them to let you pay the cable bill or drop a Benjamin on the gas or electric? 4. Babysitting. Three of the four of us are parents and we remember the hazy days of our children’s young years.

AFRO Editors: Greg Dale, news editor; Avis ThomasLester, executive editor; Rev. Dorothy Boulware, managing editor; Ronald Taylor, copy editor.

Treat parent friends to a free day, afternoon or evening of babysitting so they can get out for a while. 5. Car detailing. How many times do we look down and think, ‘I should do something about the stains on my car carpet!’ How about paying a mobile detailer to take care of that and much more for a loved one? 6. Mom’s Day Off. Treat Mom to a gift of a day and night at a hotel, where she can sleep in, order room service, keep the remote control all to herself and not have to hear “MOMMMMMMMMM!!! once all day. Add a spa treatment or mani/pedi if you can afford it. Tell Dad he cannot go. 7. Dad’s Couch Potato Day. Load the fridge with food and beer then take a powder on a good football Sunday. Let him have the house and the remote control all to himself, too. 8. Gas card. Fill the tank for somebody. We can all use that. 9. Grocery gift card. We can all use this, too. 10. Donation to an African cause. How about donating to a program to provide malaria medications to children or to fund efforts to help women establish businesses? Or a donation of farm animals that provide food and income from sales of eggs, chicks, etc.

The best gift you ever received: A CD of Charlie Parker’s Yardbird Suite. The gift that you most want: A copy of Doris Kearns Goodwin’s A Team of Rivals Your favorite Christmas memory: Snow falling as

I finished my paper route Christmas morning in 1962. Your favorite Christmas song: “Have Yourself a Merry Little Christmas” Your favorite family holiday tradition: A family outing to a first-run movie on Christmas Day. What kind of year was 2013 for you: Most of the

year was spent in slackjawed amazement that no one has held Obama critics and opponents accountable for the mess they have made of the country, all in the name of denying –strictly along racial lines-- a brilliant orator, solid thinker, dazzling husband and father and basketball devotee a graceful entrance

editor, Talibah Chikwendu, for a couple of months and she’d become acquainted with me enough to know how much I love tea and tea time. Loved it! The gift that you most want: Since I’ve become an Apple techie, I’d like a MacBook Air. Your favorite Christmas memory: Almost 12 years ago,

my middle daughter handed out Christmas presents to each of us, and as we unwrapped them to curiously discover rattles and other tiny things, she and her husband announced their first pregnancy. My favorite Christmas song: “Oh What a Wonderful Child!” Since I’ve become a woman of a certain age, I’ve taken on my grandmother’s

mantle and love to call Jesus’ name many MacBook Air times a day. In this song, I get to sing his name. My favorite family getting to know myself better. holiday tradition: We started a It’s been interesting to weed tradition about 37 years ago of out longstanding habits, to having a birthday cake for Jesus. consider more carefully before What kind of year was making choices and to look 2013 for you: This year has for new challenges. Like the been one of introspection and sand particle wedged into the

By Ron Taylor AFRO Copy Editor

By Rev. Dorothy Boulware AFRO Editor

Unique Gifts

Merry Christmas and Happy Kwanzaa! –Avis, Dorothy, Greg and Ron into his rightful place in history as the first African

American to win the U.S. Presidency. Twice.

oyster shell, the agitation of 2013 is working out the “pearling” process in my life. Along with my five granddaughters and now my great grandson who bring a new zest for life and push me toward the next thing, whatever that might be.

December 21, 2013 - December 27, 2013, The Afro-American

FAITH

Balto Preacher Writes Path to Healing Released in the Spirit

got blessed.” Rev. Neal invested herself in the writing, but also her story in the book, which garnered Trouble is a phenomenon that finds appreciation from Valerie Johnson of Miracle everyone, but it has a beginning and an ending. Worship Center. That’s the message the Rev. Dr. Dana Neal “Thank you for your transparency and for posits in her new book, “Released in the being real,” Johnson said. “So many of us can Spirit,” hot off the presses for those who are connect with your story. Truth be told, it’s our pressed. story also.” “I just want people to know that there is The structure for the book was begun in deliverance, deliverance from pain, deliverance 1999, and with divine inspiration, Rev. Neal from bondage,” Rev. Neal said. “Hurting was able to write it in two weeks. people need to know there’s an end to their “Well God created an entire universe in six pain.” days, so surely He could get a book written in Her message is neatly packaged in seven two weeks,” was her response to the writer’s chapters that represent a journey of recovery, surprise. beginning with “It’s Me O Lord,” But the final edition that was released which deals with the depths of in October was revised and updated despair to “Free at Last,” which and developed to include intricate is self-explanatory. The easy parts of the ensuing journey. read lends itself to a similar In it, the reader is introduced experience on the way to to Rev. Pam who’ll “fly with healing. one wing,” rather than wait “I’m trying to go to sleep, for wholeness to offer up her but the book is so good,” was worship. And ultimately, the the message Rev. Neal reader is invited to share the received from Keisha on rocky path of the author Facebook. who has no qualms Sandra Wilkins, about telling the truth. principal of “And it was my Hebbville son, Wendell and Elementary my daughter, School said, Danisha, who “Wow, I inspired me messed to complete around it, who Rev. Dr. Dana Neal and offered their By Rev. Dorothy Boulware AFRO Editor

“The news came on the wings of a wind, reluctant to carry its burden. Nelson Mandela’s day is done. The news, expected and still unwelcome, reached us in the United States, and suddenly our world became somber. Our skies were leaden. His day is done. No sun outlasts its sunset, but it will rise again and bring the dawn.” Maya Angelou RIP Madiba “All travel has its advantages. If the passenger visits better countries, he may learn to improve his own.” Samuel Johnson Let me tell you the story of a 17-year-old born in Baton Rouge, La. to a military family and since the age of 18 months has lived and attended school in Germany and Korea. During vacations, he and his family visited numerous places including Belgium, Hong Kong, Beijing, Vietnam, Cambodia, Australia, Austria, Venice, Amsterdam, London and Greece, to name a few. “Travel is more than the seeing of sights; it is a change that goes on, deep and permanent, in the ideas of living.” Miriam Beard During his travels, he witnessed poverty, wealth and inhumane conditions in the countries and cities he visited, cataloging it in his young mind. Proverbs 22:6 Train up a child in the way he should go, and when he is old, he will not depart from it. He joined the Cub Scouts and then the Boy Scouts in Germany and continued in scouting when his family returned home. For those who have traveled in the military with family, there are certain inconveniences you experience, like waiting for your household items to arrive weeks or months after you have returned. Fortunately, the military bases provide temporary furniture and household items for your use. Ready to move to the level of Eagle Scout he needed a service project that would enhance the community. If you are familiar with the scouting process, there are certain criteria to meet. Most service projects usually involve painting, landscaping or beautification of the communities, but this teenager had a different idea. No one imagined the impact his travels had on him at such an early age and how it would manifest itself in such a magnificent and humane way. He told his parents about a place in his community that houses homeless families. He talked about the places they had visited and how he felt when they had to get household items until their furniture arrived from overseas. To whom much is given much is required… Luke 12:48 He decided his project would provide jumpstart kits

assistance and who give their support while I’m introducing the book,” Rev. Neal said. The promotion of the book, conducting workshops and conferences and monthly healing and deliverance crusades are all part of Dayspring Ministries which has been in operation for 15 years. Dr. Neal is a Baltimore girl who graduated from Polytechnic Institute and pastored Dayspring Worship Center for 11 years. For seven years she’s been married to Elder

consisting of pots, pans, dishes, iron, mixer, flatware, glasses, cooking utensils and a huge tote for displaced families in a shelter. He solicited the community of Fairfax Station, Va., family and friends to purchase these items, even providing the aisle locations in the store so the kits would be the same. Each completed kit cost $116.84. Some donors produced total kits, they were so inspired by this Boy Scout. With the help of his Boy Scout troop, classmates, family and neighbors and after weeks of collecting and assembling the kits, 38 jumpstart kits were delivered to the Katherine Hanley Home providing families a jumpstart to a new beginning. Did I mention that the Boy Scout who chose a project that enriched the lives of others during this season of giving is my grandson Matthew Packer, son of Gregory and Lisa Packer. “I wonder if the snow loves the trees and fields, that it kisses them so gently.” Lewis Carroll “Let it snow, let it snow, let it snow...” The snowflakes cast a Dickens-like winter wonderland scene, gently kissing the tree branches while guests dined and danced inside Committee X-71’s Saturday afternoon holiday party at Martin’s West. Guests travelled from near and far joining our host Col. Walter and Jeanette Hairston during the cocktail hour, before dining on Martin’s exquisitely prepared menu of salmon, prime rib, crab cakes and dessert stations with assorted cakes, sundaes and chocolate covered strawberries. The appealing ice cream cocktails, artfully prepared by the mixologist Michael, enticed many to forgo dessert for the special treat. “You’re never fully dressed without a smile.” Martin Charnin People dressed in their holiday finery enjoying Committee X-71’s hospitality included Ron and Linda Hairston. Michael and Myietta Hairston, William Belcher, Rosalie Turpin, Leonard and Mary Ellen Smackum, Louis and Bernice Smackum, Barbara Armstrong, Gregory Williams, Carole Hilton, Pat and Howard Jessamy, Dr. Vallen and Michele Emery, Dr. Anne Emery, Floyd and Gwendola Taliaferro, Dr. Joseph and Lillian Hairston, James and Lorraine Thornton, Dr. J. Laws Nickens, Diane Hardison, John and Louise Green, Brenda Hairston, Stan and Loretta Mitchell and Errol and Debbie Taylor. Sending prayers and get-well wishes for a speedy recovery to former Baltimore City school superintendent Dr. Walter Amprey who is recovering from surgery. Happy birthday to Colin’s manager Chris Calvi, Dr. Walter Amprey, Cordell Boone, Anthony McCarthy, Larry Satterfield, Get Gaither and Pat Payne. Harold Darden celebrates his 80th

Charles Neal with whom she likes to watch movies and spend free time along with her extended family. For more information on the book or to engage ministry services contact Rev. Neal at 443-469-7577 or email releasedinthespirit@ gmail.com. Healing and deliverance crusades are held 7 p.m., every third Thursday at Miracle Worship Center, 4105 Sunnyside Avenue, Baltimore, Md. 21215.

birthday Dec. 27, at the 5 Mile House. “In one of the stars I shall be living, in one of them I shall be laughing and so it will be as if all the stars were laughing when you look at the sky at night” Antoine de Saint-Exupery Prayers to the faithful saints of St. Bernadine on the sudden death of your friend and spiritual leader Father Miller. I remember when Father Miller came to St. Bernadine; I lived on Lyndhurst Street across from the church. On Sundays, he would march the choir outside to sing on the church steps. An urban preacher Father Miler brought the church from the pulpit to the street. He walked the community bringing peace and joy.

Merry Christmas!

Valerie & the Friday Night Bunch

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ANTIQUES & COLLECTIBLES

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1 Col. Inch Up to 20 Words

AFRO Classified minimum ad rate is $26.54 per col. inch (an inch consists of up to 20 words). Mail in your ad on form below along with CHECK or MONEY ORDER to: WASHINGTON AFRO-AMERICAN CO. 1917 Benning Road, N.E. Washington, D.C. 20002-4723 Attn: Clsf. Adv. Dept.

PROPOSALS WILL BE DUE no later than 2:00 p.m. Eastern Time on Friday, January 24, 2014.

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A non-mandatory pre-proposals conference will be held on Thursday, January 2, 2014, at 10:00 a.m., at 417 E. Fayette Street, Room 416, Baltimore, Maryland, 21202.

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HABC has established a minimum goal of twenty percent (20%) of the total dollar amount of the proposed contract for Minority Business Enterprise (MBE) utilization, applicable to all minority and non-minority businesses proposing to provide the requested services as the prime contractor. No goal has been established for participation of Women-owned businesses (WBEs), however, HABC strongly encourages and affirmatively promotes the use of WBEs in all HABC contracts. Responders shall also comply with all applicable requirements of Section 3 of the Housing and Urban Development Act of 1968, 12 U.S.C. Section 1701u.

TYPESET: Tue Oct 15 19:39:04 EDT 2013

l ad

The RFP may be obtained on or after Monday, December 23, 2013 at the following location: Housing Authority of Baltimore City Division of Fiscal Operations, Purchasing Department 417 E. Fayette Street, Room 414 Baltimore, Maryland 21202 Attention: John Airey, Chief of Contracting Services Tel: (410) 396-3261 Fax: (410) 962-1586

NAME: ________________________________________________ ADDRESS: _____________________________________________ PHONE NO.:____________________________________________ CLASSIFICATION: ______________________________________ (Room, Apt., House, etc.) INSERTION DATE:_________________

BALTIMORE AFRO-AMERICAN NEWSPAPER Legal Advertising Rates Effective October 1, 2008

Questions regarding the RFP should be directed in writing to the address and individual indicated above, and must include the reference: HABC RFP TYPESET: Wed Dec 18 10:03:49 EST 2013 Number B-1744-13. CITY OF BALTIMORE DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION NOTICE OF LETTING Sealed Bids or Proposals, in duplicate addressed to the Board of Estimates of the Mayor and City Council of Baltimore and marked for FAP NO. STP-3(317)E)E; SHA NO. AX8865125; BALTIMORE CITY NO. TR12313; HERRING RUN GREENWAY - PHASE I will be received at the Office of the Comptroller, Room 204 City Hall, Baltimore, Maryland until 11:00 A.M. February 12, 2014. Positively no bids will be received after 11:00 A.M. Bids will be publicly opened by the Board of Estimates in Room 215, City Hall at Noon. The Contract Documents may be examined, without charge, at the Department of Public Works Service Center located on the first floor of the Abel Wolman Municipal Building, 200 N. Holliday Street, Baltimore, Maryland 21202 as of December 20, 2013 and copies may be purchased for a non-refundable cost of $200.00. Conditions and requirements of the Bid are found in the bid package. All contractors bidding on this Contract must first be prerequalified by the City of Baltimore Contractors Qualification Committee, 3000 Druid Park Drive, Baltimore, Maryland 21215. Interested parties should call (410) 396-6883. If a bid is submitted by a joint venture (JV), then in that event, the document that established the JV shall be submitted with the bid for verification purposes. The Prequalification Category required for bidding on this project is (A02602 Bituminous Concrete Paving, G90046 Concrete and Brick Retaining Walls).Cost Qualification Range for this work shall be $3,000,000.00 to $4,000,000.00 A Pre-Bidding Information session will be conducted at 10:00 A.M. on December 31, 2013 at the Dept. of Rec & Parks, 2600 Madison Avenue, Baltimore, Maryland 21217. Principal Items of work for this project are: Bridge 1 (at Harford) - LS and Bridge 2 (at Sinclair) - LS.

Peoples Community Health Center Severn Community Health and Wellness Center PreEngineered Building Manufacturers Request for Proposals Peoples Community Health Centers herewith issues a Request For Proposal from Qualified Pre-Engineered Building Manufacturers for design and construction of the Severn Community Health and Wellness Center at Reece Road. The Severn Community Health and Wellness Center is currently being designed by Perkins + Will, it will be a 30,000 sf facility with a 15,000 sf Health Center and a 15,000 sf Community Center. The project costs for the project are estimated at approximately $12M ($9.5M for the Federally Qualified Health Center and $2.5M for the community center) and is federally funded in the amount of $5,000,000 by the Department of Health and Human Services (Affordable Care Act); State funded in the amount of $1,600,000 by the Maryland Department of Health and Mental Hygiene. Both grants are being used solely for the FQHC portion of the project. The Community Center is funded in the amount of $250,000 by the Maryland Department of General Services and in the amount of $1,750,000 by private funding from individuals, non-profits, and businesses. The federal funding for the overall project represents between 53 and 75 percent of the project. Peoples Community Health Centers is looking for Qualified Pre-Engineered Building Manufacturers with experience in Anne Arundel County, health care and community center facility design and construction experience. The RFP Documentation can be obtained at : bw@cpmfirm.com. Responses are due by 2:00 P.M. on December 23, 2013.

a. Order Nisi $ 60 per insertion b. Small Estates (single publication $ 60 per insertion c. Notice to Creditors 1. Domestic $ 60 per insertion 2. Foreign $ 60 per insertion d. Escheated Estates $ 60 per insertion e. Standard Probates

CIVIL NOTICES a. Name Changes 202-879-1133 b. Real Property

$180.00 per 3 weeks $180.00 per 3 weeks $180.00 per 3 weeks $360.00 per 6 weeks $125.00

$ 80.00 $ 200.00

FAMILY COURT 202-879-1212 DOMESTIC RELATIONS 202-879-0157 a. Absent Defendant b. Absolute Divorce c. Custody Divorce

The DBE goal is 24% APPROVED: Bernice H. Taylor, TYPESET: Wed Dec 18 10:04:09 EST 2013 Clerk - Board of Estimates

PROBATE DIVISION (Estates) 202-332-0080 PROBATE NOTICES

$ 150.00 $ 150.00 $150.00

TYPESET: Wed Dec 18 10:04:59 EST 2013 IN THE CIRCUIT COURT FOR BALTIMORE CITY Case No.: 24-D-13-003571 IN THE MATTER OF Samantha Jo Riley FOR CHANGE OF NAME TO Sam J. Riley ORDER FOR NOTICE BY PUBLICATION The object of this suit is to officially change the name of the petitioner from Samantha Jo Riley to Sam J. Riley It is this 25th day of November, 2013 by the Circuit Court for Baltimore City, ORDERED, that publication be given one time in a newspaper of general circulation in Baltimore City on or before the 26th day of D e c e m b e r, 2 0 1 3 , which shall warn all interested persons to file an affidavit in opposition to the relief requested on or before the 10th day of January, 2013 Frank M. Conaway Clerk 12/20/13

To place your ad, call 1-800-237-6892, ext. 262, Public Notices $50.00 & up depending on size, Baltimore Legal Notices are $24.84 per inch. 1-800 (AFRO) 892 For Proof of Publication, please call 1-800-237-6892, ext. 244

TYPESET: Wed Dec 18 10:03:12 2013 LEGALEST NOTICES CERTIFICATION OF PUBLICATION CITY OF BALTIMORE OFFICE OF BOARDS AND COMMISSIONS PUBLIC NOTICE PROJECT # 1202R - Wastewater Engineering Services for Sewer Collection System Improvements in the Jones Falls and High Level Sewersheds (Revised) The City of Baltimore Office of Boards and Commissions has been requested by the Department of Public Works, Bureau of Water and Wastewater, to advertise for Civil/Environmental Engineering firms to perform wastewater engineering services in the Jones Falls and High Level Sewersheds. The work may include design of new sewers including sewer replacement and upsizing, point repairs, manhole rehabilitation, sanitary house connections, and any other sewer related work utilizing open-cut and trenchless methods. The City intends to select the services of two (2) firms to provide these engineering services under the following two projects: Project One (1) - High Level Sewershed 1-Rehabilitation using CIPP lining of approximately 65,000 LF of pipe 2-Rehabilitation/Replacement of approximately 350 manholes 3-Upsizing of approximately 5,500 LF of pipe 4-Constructing approximately 8,300 LF of new relief sewer Project Two (2) - Jones Falls Sewershed 1-Rehabilitation using CIPP lining of approximately 65,000 LF of pipe 2-Rehabilitation/Replacement of approximately 500 manholes The firms interested in providing these services must demonstrate and document: 1.Experience in design of sanitary sewer systems including hydraulic analysis and hydraulic modeling. 2.Experience in design of sanitary sewers system rehabilitation using trenchless technologies including CIPP lining, pipe bursting and any other suitable trenchless methods for these projects. 3.Experience in preparation of design reports and contract documents including plans and specifications, all permit applications, easements, and related items necessary for procurement of construction. 4.Experience in geotechnical engineering, subsurface exploration, test pit, test holes and survey services for utility designs. 5.Experience in construction management services which include: construction inspection, review and response to RFIs, review and tracking of shop drawings, submittals and change orders, review of substitutions and technical consultations. 6.Experience in reviewing and/or evaluating CCTV inspections in accordance with PACP standards and other non-destructive sewer inspection technologies in an effort to confirm illegal connections and crossconnections. 7.Experience in various aspects of Geographic Information Systems (GIS) such as reading and generating maps; gathering, understanding, review and verification of GIS data; and manipulating GIS data. 8.Experience in developing and managing an overall team with Minority/ Women Business Enterprises utilization and demonstrate manpower availability to complete the project. Services will include review of available manhole and CCTV inspection data generated by previous studies and other available information; some dye testing; overall project management; rehabilitation and replacement design of sanitary sewers; preparation of contract documents including design memorandum report, plans, specifications, cost estimates, permit applications, easements/right-of-way plats; assist with community meetings; bid phase services; etc. DPW reserves the right to have a second interview with eligible consulting

utilize the City of BaltimoreGuid Design Consultants and Constru

Firms interested in submitting a Letter of Interest to the Office of B Drive, Baltimore, Maryland 2121 ters are utilized to assist small m identifying potential teaming part five (5) days of the date of the p contain a contact person. Failu disqualify a firm submitting a pro

To advertise in the AFRO Call 410-554-8200

Payment Policy for legal notice advertisements. Effective immediately, The Afro American Newspapers will require prepayment for publication of all legal notices. Payment will be accepted in the form of checks, credit card or money order. Any returned checks will be subject to a $25.00 processing fee and may result in the suspension of any future advertising at our discretion.

HOUSING AUTHORITY OF BALTIMORE CITY REQUEST FOR PROPOSALS CASE MANAGEMENT SYSTEM SOFTWARE IMPLEMENTATION PROJECT MANAGEMENT SERVICES

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A F R O

The Afro-American, December 21, 2013 - December 27, 2013

SAMPLE

Each prime consultant applying f and submit an original Federal F Office of Boards and Commissio

The Federal Form 255 and the fi 12:00 P.M. (Noon) on December after this deadline. Prequalification Requirement

All architectural, engineering, a proposal for the Project must be Commissions for each applicab Project. Information regarding th by calling the Office of Boards an Insurance Requirements

The consultant selected for the fessional liability, auto liability, pensation insurances as require MBE/WBE Requirements

It is the policy of the City of Baltim in the City´s contracting proce Baltimore City Code (2000 Editio gram, Minority Business Enterpr prise (WBE) participation goals a The MBE goal is 27% The WBE goal is 10%

Both the proposed Minority and be named and identified as an M Form (SF) 255 in the space consultants/associates anticipat

Any submittals that do not include DBE) participation will be disap project. Verifying Certification

Each firm submitting a SF 255 fo for verifying that all MBEs and certified by the Minority and (MWBOO) prior to submitting th and WBEs is available from MWB daily, firms submitting SF 255s s verify certification, expiration da certified to provide. Non-Affiliation

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such as reading and generating maps; gathering, understanding, review and verification of GIS data; and manipulating GIS data. 8.Experience in developing and managing an overall team with Minority/ Women Business Enterprises utilization and demonstrate manpower availability to complete the project. Services will include review of available manhole and CCTV inspection data generated by previous studies and other available information; some dye testing; overall project management; rehabilitation and replacement design LEGAL of sanitary sewers; preparation of NOTICES contract documents including design memorandum report, plans, specifications, cost estimates, permit applications, easements/right-of-way plats; assist with community meetings; bid phase services; etc. DPW reserves the right to have a second interview with eligible consulting firms. The estimated design fee of Project One is $1,000,000 and Project Two is $500,000. The estimated duration of each project is 18 months (covering Design, Advertisement, Award, and Notice-to-Proceed for the construction contract). The firm ranked number one as a result of the interviews for this project will be recommended for award of Project One (1) and the firm ranked second will be recommended for Project Two (2). At the option of the City, the firms may be considered to provide post-award engineering services during construction, which will include shop drawings review, review and response to RFIs; change order reviews; postconstruction manhole and CCTV inspection reviews; inspection and consultation during construction. Should you have any questions regarding the scope of the Project, please contact Mr. George Mwangi at (410) 396-3440 or by e-mail at george. mwangi@baltimorecity.gov. Projects must comply with the 2006 edition of The Specifications for Materials, Highway,Bridges, Utilities and Incidental Structures. City personnel will utilize the City of BaltimoreGuidelines for the Performance Evaluation of Design Consultants and Construction Contractors for this contract/project. Firms interested in submitting a proposal for this Project, shall address a Letter of Interest to the Office of Boards and Commissions, 3000 Druid Park Drive, Baltimore, Maryland 21215 (FAX (410) 625-4667). Since these letters are utilized to assist small minority and women business enterprises in identifying potential teaming partners, the letter should be submitted within five (5) days of the date of the project´s advertisement. The letter should contain a contact person. Failure to submit a letter of Interest will not disqualify a firm submitting a proposal for the project. Each prime consultant applying for this Project will be required to complete and submit an original Federal Form 255, along with five (5) copies, to the Office of Boards and Commissions. The Federal Form 255 and the five copies must be submitted on or before 12:00 P.M. (Noon) on December 30, 2013. Submittals may not be accepted after this deadline. Prequalification Requirement

All architectural, engineering, and surveying firms listed in the specific proposal for the Project must be prequalified by the Office of Boards and Commissions for each applicable discipline at time of submittal for this Project. Information regarding the prequalification process can be obtained by calling the Office of Boards and Commissions on 410.396.6883.

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project. Verifying Certification Each firm submitting a SF 255 for consideration for a project is responsible for verifying that all MBEs and WBEs to be utilized on the project are December 21, Office 2013 - December 27, 2013, The Afro-American certified by the Minority and Women´s Business Opportunity (MWBOO) prior to submitting the proposal. A directory of certified MBEs and WBEsWed is available MWBOO. Since TYPESET: Dec 18from 10:03:32 EST 2013 changes to the directory occur NOTICES daily, firms submitting SFLEGAL 255s should call MWBOO at (410) 396-4355 to verify certification, expiration dates and services that the MBE or WBE is in the City´s contracting process. Pursuant to Article 5, Subtitle 28 of certified to provide. Baltimore City Code (2000 Edition) - Minority and Women´s Business CERTIFICATION OF PUBLICATION Program, Minority Business Enterprise (MBE) and Women´s Business Non-Affiliation Enterprise (WBE) participation goals apply to this contract. CITY OF BALTIMORE OFFICE OF BOARDS AND COMMISSIONS A firm submitting a proposalPUBLIC may not use an MBE or WBE to meet a contract The MBE goal is 27% NOTICE goal if: The WBE goal is 10% 1.The firm has a financial interest in the MBE or WBE PROJECT # 1198 - COMPREHENSIVE BIOSOLIDS PLAN ENGINEER2. The firm has an interest in the ownership or control of the MBE or WBE Both the proposed Minority and Women´s Business Enterprise firms must ING SERVICES FOR THE BUREAU OF WATER AND WASTEWATER 3.The firm is significantly involved in the operation of the MBE or WBE(Ar- be named and identified as an MBE or WBE within Item 6 of the Standard ticle 5, Subtitle 28-41). The City of Baltimore Office of Boards and Commissions has been re- Form (SF) 255 in the spaces provided for identifying outside key quested by the Department of Public Works, Bureau of Water and consultants/associates anticipated for utilization for this project. Local law Hiring Wastewater, to certify the qualifications of Engineering Firms to perform a Comprehensive Biosolids Plan of the Back River and Patapsco Wastewater Any submittals that do not include the proper MBE/WBE (in some instances Article 5, Subtitle of Bureau. the Baltimore City Code, as amended (the Local DBE) participation will be disapproved for further consideration for this Treatment Plants for27the Hiring Law) and its rules and regulations apply to contracts and agreements project. byofthe orconsultant after the Local Hiring Law´s effective date of Atexecuted the option theCity City,onthe may be considered for final design December 23, 2013 which isservices. applicable to all vendors. The Local Hiring Law Verifying Certification and post award engineering applies to every contract for more than $300,000 made by the City, or on its behalf, with any person. It also applies to everymust agreement authorizing The Firms interested in providing these services demonstrate and Each firm submitting a SF 255 for consideration for a project is responsible assistance valued at more than $5,000,000 to a City-subsidized project. for verifying that all MBEs and WBEs to be utilized on the project are document: Please visit www.oedworks.com for detailed on the requirements of the law. certified by the Minority and Women´s Business Opportunity Office *Experience in evaluating the performance of Biosolids thickening, sta(MWBOO) prior to submitting the proposal. A directory of certified MBEs bilization, dewatering and disposal systems. Additional Information available from SERVICE MWBOO. Since changes to the directory occur *Understanding of the EPA and Maryland Department of the Environment and WBEs is EXECUTIVE RECRUITMENT daily, firms submitting SF PLEASURE 255s should call at (410) 396-4355 to current regulations and anticipated regulatory revision. (SERVES AT THE OFMWBOO THE APPOINTING *Experience in addressing long-term (30 years) system demands; identifyverify certification, expiration dates and services that the MBE or WBE is AUTHORITY) ing capital, operating, and maintenance cost projections; determining the certified to provide. most cost effective biosolids management options. ASSISTANT MANAGER, AIRPORT SECURITY DIVISION *Manpower Availability and ability to complete assignments within time and Non-Affiliation PROGRAM MANAGER I (Code 5476) budget. POSTED: December 2013 firm submitting a proposal may6, not use an MBE or WBE to meet a contract *Experience in preparation of comprehensive planning documents for ADATE goal if: wastewater facilities, including stake holder outreach and input. CLOSING DATE: December 20, 2013 1.The firm has *Overall team approach with Minority/Women Business Enterprises GRADE: 19 a financial interest in the MBE or WBE 2. The firm has an interest in the ownership or control of the MBE or WBE SALARY RANGE: $52,150 - $83,726 effective of 1/1/14 significantly involved in the operation the MBE or WBE(ArThe City intends to select the services of one (1) firm. Services will include 3.The firm is 5, Subtitle 28-41). review of available information, project management, contract administraticle LOCATION: Baltimore/Washington International Thurgood Martion, investigation, design, developing and implementing public information shall Airport (BWI Marshall) law Hiring and education programs, emergency services, preparation of reports and Local contract documents, including construction cost estimates, permit applicaArticle 5, Subtitle 27 of the Baltimore City Code, as amended (the Local tions, right of ways, shop drawing review and consultation during Hiring Law) and its rules and regulations apply to contracts and agreements construction. Assistant by Manager theorAirport Security Division, BWI Mar- date of executed the Cityofon after the Local Hiring Law´s effective shall. In this theisAssistant directly 23, capacity, 2013 which applicableManager to all vendors. Thesupervises, Local Hiring Law The engineering services will be for a period of eighteen (18) months and December applies to every contract forthe more than $300,000 made by theSecurity City, or on its the estimated cost of these services is $1,000,000.00. as a shared responsibility, management of the Airport behalf, with any person. It also applies to every agreement authorizing Badging and Training Sections, and directly supervises the Contract project. Should you have any questions regarding the scope of the Project, please assistance valued at more than $5,000,000 to a City-subsidized Compliance Section. These sections comprise therequirements Airport Security visit www.oedworks.com for detailed on the of the law. contact Mr. Gurminder Singh at (410) 396-5385 or by e-mail at Gurminder. Please Singh@baltimorecity.gov Division and functions with a combined annual budget in excess of Additional Information $6 million. In addition, this position is responsible for the operaProjects must comply with the 2006 edition of The Specifications for Materifirm oversight submittingofas a prime consultant thatsuch failsastoaccess comply with the als, Highways, Bridges, Utilities and Incidental Structures. City personnel Ational section-assigned contracts control, ofservices, Article 5, Subtitle 28 offingerprinting Baltimore Cityservices. Code when executing will utilize the City of Baltimore Guidelines for the Performance Evaluation requirements security guard CCTV and Salary of Design Consultants and Construction Contractors for this contract/ a contract is subject to the following penalties: suspension of a contract; range $52150 $83,726, the Stateofofcontract Maryland offers generousbreach; withholding of -funds; rescission based ona material project. disqualification as aPlease consultant from eligibility to provide services the City benefits package. see https://jobs.mdot.state.md.us for to coma period not to exceed 2 years; and payment damages incurred by the Firms interested in submitting a proposal for this Project, shall address a for plete job posting or contact 410-859-7618 forfor more information. Letter of Interest to the Office of Boards and Commissions, 3000Druid Park City. Drive, Baltimore, Maryland 21215 (EMAIL: OBC.Consultants@ baltimorecity.gov). Since these letters are utilized to assist small minority A resume for each person listed as key personnel and/or specialist, includand women business enterprises in identifying potential teaming partners, ing those from MBE and WBE firms, must be shown on the page provided the letter should be submitted within five (5) days of the date of the project´s within the application. EXECUTIVE SERVICE RECRUITMENT advertisement. The letter should contain a contact person. Failure to submit be advised that for the purpose OF of reviewing price proposals and a letter of Interest will not disqualify a firm submitting a proposal for the Please (SERVES AT THE PLEASURE THE APPOINTING invoices, the City of Baltimore defines a principal of a firm as follows: project. AUTHORITY)

CAREER CORNER

It is the policy of the City of Baltimore to promote equal business opportunity in the City´s contracting process. Pursuant to Article 5, Subtitle 28 of Baltimore City Code (2000 Edition) -Minority and Women´s Business Program, Minority Business Enterprise (MBE) and Women´sBusiness Enter- Each prime consultant applying for this Project will be required to complete prise (WBE) participation goals apply to this contract. and submit an original Federal Form 255, along with five (5) copies, to the Office of Boards and Commissions. The Federal Form 255 and the five The MBE goal is 27% copies must be submitted on or before 12:00 P.M. (Noon) on January 10, The WBE goal is 10% 2014. Submittals may not be accepted after this deadline.

Both the proposed Minority and Women´s Business Enterprise firms must Prequalification Requirement be named and identified as an MBE or WBE within Item 6 of the Standard Form (SF) 255 in the spaces provided for identifying outside key All architectural, engineering, and surveying firms listed in the specific consultants/associates anticipated for utilization for this project. proposal for the Project must be prequalified by the Office of Boards and Commissions for each applicable discipline at time of submittal for this Any submittals that do not include the proper MBE/WBE (in some instances Project. Information regarding the prequalification process can be obtained DBE) participation will be disapproved for further consideration for this by calling the Office of Boards and Commissions on 410.396.6883. project. Insurance Requirements Verifying Certification The consultant selected for the award of this project shall provide proEach firm submitting a SF 255 for consideration for a project is responsible fessional liability, auto liability, and general liability and workers ´ comfor verifying that all MBEs and WBEs to be utilized on the project are pensation insurances as required by the City of Baltimore. certified by the Minority and Women´s Business Opportunity Office (MWBOO) prior to submitting the proposal. A directory of certified MBEs MBE/WBE Requirements and WBEsWed is available MWBOO. TYPESET: Dec 18from 10:03:32 EST Since 2013 changes to the directory occur daily, firms submitting SF 255s should call MWBOO at (410) 396-4355 to It is the policy of the City of Baltimore to promote equal business opportunity verify certification, expiration dates and services that the MBE or WBE is in the City´s contracting process. Pursuant to Article 5, Subtitle 28 of certified to provide. CERTIFICATION OF PUBLICATION Baltimore City Code (2000 Edition) - Minority and Women´s Business Program, Minority Business Enterprise (MBE) and Women´s Business Non-Affiliation CITY OF BALTIMORE Enterprise (WBE) participation goals apply to this contract. OFFICE OF BOARDS AND COMMISSIONS A firm submitting a proposalPUBLIC may not use an MBE or WBE to meet a contract NOTICE The MBE goal is 27% goal if: The WBE goal is 10% 1.The firm has a financial interest in the MBE or WBE PROJECT # 1198 - COMPREHENSIVE BIOSOLIDS PLAN ENGINEER2. The firm has an interest in the ownership or control of the MBE or WBE ING SERVICES FOR THE BUREAU OF WATER AND WASTEWATER Both the proposed Minority and Women´s Business Enterprise firms must 3.The firm is significantly involved in the operation of the MBE or WBE(Ar- be named and identified as an MBE or WBE within Item 6 of the Standard ticleCity 5, Subtitle 28-41).Office of Boards and Commissions has been re- Form (SF) 255 in the spaces provided for identifying outside key The of Baltimore quested by the Department of Public Works, Bureau of Water and consultants/associates anticipated for utilization for this project. Local law Hiring Wastewater, to certify the qualifications of Engineering Firms to perform a Comprehensive Biosolids Plan of the Back River and Patapsco Wastewater Any submittals that do not include the proper MBE/WBE (in some instances Article 5, Plants Subtitlefor27the of Bureau. the Baltimore City Code, as amended (the Local DBE) participation will be disapproved for further consideration for this Treatment Hiring Law) and its rules and regulations apply to contracts and agreements project. byofthe orconsultant after the Local Hiring Law´s effective date of Atexecuted the option theCity City,onthe may be considered for final design and post award engineering December 23, 2013 which isservices. applicable to all vendors. The Local Hiring Law Verifying Certification applies to every contract for more than $300,000 made by the City, or on its The Firms interested in providing these services demonstrate and Each firm submitting a SF 255 for consideration for a project is responsible behalf, with any person. It also applies to everymust agreement authorizing document: assistance valued at more than $5,000,000 to a City-subsidized project. for verifying that all MBEs and WBEs to be utilized on the project are *Experience in evaluating the performance of the Biosolids thickening, for detailed on requirements of thestalaw. certified by the Minority and Women´s Business Opportunity Office Please visit www.oedworks.com bilization, dewatering and disposal systems. (MWBOO) prior to submitting the proposal. A directory of certified MBEs *Understanding of the EPA and Maryland Department of the Environment and WBEs is available from MWBOO. Since changes to the directory occur Additional Information current regulations and anticipated regulatory revision. daily, firms submitting SF 255s should call MWBOO at (410) 396-4355 to *Experience in addressing long-term (30 years) system demands; identifyverify certification, expiration dates and services that the MBE or WBE is ing capital, operating, and maintenance cost projections; determining the certified to provide. most cost effective biosolids management options. *Manpower Availability and ability to complete assignments within time and Non-Affiliation budget. *Experience in preparation of comprehensive planning documents for A firm submitting a proposal may not use an MBE or WBE to meet a contract wastewater facilities, including stake holder outreach and input. goal if: *Overall team approach with Minority/Women Business Enterprises 1.The firm has a financial interest in the MBE or WBE 2. The firm has an interest in the ownership or control of the MBE or WBE The City intends to select the services of one (1) firm. Services will include 3.The firm is significantly involved in the operation of the MBE or WBE(Arreview of available information, project management, contract administraticle 5, Subtitle 28-41). tion, investigation, design, developing and implementing public information and education programs, emergency services, preparation of reports and Local law Hiring contract documents, including construction cost estimates, permit applications, right of ways, shop drawing review and consultation during Article 5, Subtitle 27 of the Baltimore City Code, as amended (the Local construction. Hiring Law) and its rules and regulations apply to contracts and agreements executed by the City on or after the Local Hiring Law´s effective date of The engineering services will be for a period of eighteen (18) months and December 23, 2013 which is applicable to all vendors. The Local Hiring Law the estimated cost of these services is $1,000,000.00. applies to every contract for more than $300,000 made by the City, or on its behalf, with any person. It also applies to every agreement authorizing Should you have any questions regarding the scope of the Project, please assistance valued at more than $5,000,000 to a City-subsidized project. contact Mr. Gurminder Singh at (410) 396-5385 or by e-mail at Gurminder. Please visit www.oedworks.com for detailed on the requirements of the law. Singh@baltimorecity.gov Additional Information Projects must comply with the 2006 edition of The Specifications for Materials, Highways, Bridges, Utilities and Incidental Structures. City personnel A firm submitting as a prime consultant that fails to comply with the will utilize the City of Baltimore Guidelines for the Performance Evaluation requirements of Article 5, Subtitle 28 of Baltimore City Code when executing of Design Consultants and Construction Contractors for this contract/ a contract is subject to the following penalties: suspension of a contract; project. withholding of funds; rescission of contract based on material breach; disqualification as a consultant from eligibility to provide services to the City Firms interested in submitting a proposal for this Project, shall address a for a period not to exceed 2 years; and payment for damages incurred by the Letter of Interest to the Office of Boards and Commissions, 3000Druid Park City. Drive, Baltimore, Maryland 21215 (EMAIL: OBC.Consultants@ baltimorecity.gov). Since these letters are utilized to assist small minority A resume for each person listed as key personnel and/or specialist, includand women business enterprises in identifying potential teaming partners, ing those from MBE and WBE firms, must be shown on the page provided the letter should be submitted within five (5) days of the date of the project´s within the application. advertisement. The letter should contain a contact person. Failure to submit a letter of Interest will not disqualify a firm submitting a proposal for the Please be advised that for the purpose of reviewing price proposals and project. invoices, the City of Baltimore defines a principal of a firm as follows: Each prime consultant applying for this Project will be required to complete and submit an original Federal Form 255, along with five (5) copies, to the Office of Boards and Commissions. The Federal Form 255 and the five copies must be submitted on or before 12:00 P.M. (Noon) on January 10, 2014. Submittals may not be accepted after this deadline. Prequalification Requirement

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The consultant selected for the award of this project shall provide professional liability, auto liability, and general liability and workers ´ compensation insurances as required by the City of Baltimore. MBE/WBE Requirements It is the policy of the City of Baltimore to promote equal business opportunity

A principal is any individual owning 5% or more of the outstanding stock of an entity, a partner of a partnership, a 5% or more shareholder of a sub-chapter ´S´ Corporation, or an individual owner. Out-of-State Corporations must identify their corporate resident agent within the application.

A principal is any individual owning 5% or more of the outstanding stock of an entity, a AIRPORT partner of aDEPUTY partnership, a 5% or more shareholder of a FIRE CHIEF (4017) sub-chapter ´S´ Corporation, or an individual owner.

DATE POSTED: December 2013 Out-of-State Corporations must 9, identify their corporate resident agent within the application. CLOSING DATE: December 27, 2013 GRADE: 0177

Firms will not be considered for a specific project if they apply as both a SALARY: $59,355 - $91,754 Effective 1/1/2014 sub-consultant and prime consultant.

LOCATION: Baltimore/Washington International Thurgood Mar-

The applications for this Project (Form 255) cannot be supplemented with shalladditional Airport (BWI) any information such as graphs, photographs, organization chart, etc. All such information should be incorporated into the appropriate pages. Applications not be bound. Applications should simply be An employee in thisshould classification assists the Airport Fire Chief/ stapled in the upper left-hand corner. Cover sheets should not be included. Director in the management of the overall emergency services Inclusion and/or submittal of additional material may result in the applicant program, along with training for andthis fireproject. prevention programs being disqualified fromsafety, consideration

for the Baltimore/Washington International Thurgood Marshall

Failure to follow directions of this advertisement or the application may Airport Fire and Rescue Department cause disqualification of the submittal. (BWI FRD). This position

serves as one of two Airport Deputy Fire Chiefs within the BWI Kumasi Vines, Chief FRD. Subordinate personnel are managed through the supervision of Airport Division Fire Chiefs. Work is performed at an airport fire station and at response locations throughout the airport, which are exposed to high noise levels from aircraft. In some emergency situations, the Airport Deputy Fire Chief wears protective clothing and may be exposed to hazardous situations. Employees in this class are considered essential employees and are subject to call-in twentyfour hours a day. In the absence of the Airport Fire Chief/Director, a Deputy may assume the responsibilities associated with this office. In addition, the Deputy will be required to periodically perform training and may be required to perform the duties and responsibilities of an Airport Division Fire Chief. Please see https://jobs.mdot. state.md.us for complete job announcement and application instructions. Resumes will not be accepted in lieu of DTS-1 applications, if necessary please call 410-859-7618 for additional information.

INSIDE SALES ADVERTISING ACCOUNT EXECUTIVE Entry-Level Advertising Sales Rep needed for the AFRO-American Newspapers, Baltimore, M.D. Position provides: • • • •

Competitive compensation package Salary and commission plan Full benefits after trial period Opportunity for fast track advancement

Candidates should possess: • Good typing/data entry skills

• • •

Excellent customer service skills Previous telephone sales experience Excellent written and verbal communication skills

Please email your resume to: lhowze@afro.com or mail to AFRO-American Newspapers, Diane W. Hocker, Director of Human Resources, 2519 N. Charles Street, Baltimore, MD 21218

Firms will not be considered for a specific project if they apply as both a sub-consultant and prime consultant. The applications for this Project (Form 255) cannot be supplemented with any additional information such as graphs, photographs, organization chart, etc. All such information should be incorporated into the appropriate pages. Applications should not be bound. Applications should simply be stapled in the upper left-hand corner. Cover sheets should not be included. Inclusion and/or submittal of additional material may result in the applicant being disqualified from consideration for this project. Failure to follow directions of this advertisement or the application may cause disqualification of the submittal. Kumasi Vines, Chief

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The Afro-American, December 21, 2013 - December 27, 2013