Baltimore Afro American Newspaper May 23 2015

www.afro.comMay 9, 2015 - May 9, 2015,

Volume 123 No. 42

A1 $1.00

The Baltimore Afro-American

MAY 23, 2015 - MAY 29, 2015

Honoring Our Heroes

Entire Criminal Justice System Under Review

Obama Bans Distribution of Military-Grade Equipment to Local Police

By Roberto Alejandro Special to the AFRO Photo courtesy of the St. Louis American

St. Louis County Police during protests in Ferguson in November 2014.

By Zenitha Prince Senior AFRO Correspondent

President Obama this week announced steps to demilitarize local police, limiting and outright banning access to certain weapons. The President made the announcement in Camden, N.J., May 18 during remarks about the administration’s broader efforts on law enforcement reform.

“We’ve seen how militarized gear can sometimes give people a feeling like there’s an occupying force, as opposed to a force that’s part of the community that’s protecting them and serving them. It can alienate and intimidate local residents, and send the wrong message. So we’re going to prohibit some equipment made for the battlefield that is not appropriate for local police departments,” he said.

As part of its Program 1033, the Department of Defense was authorized to transfer defense material to federal and state agencies for use in law enforcement, particularly those associated with counter-drug and counterterrorism activities.

Under the new rules, law enforcement departments are

prohibited from acquiring tracked armored vehicles, bayonets, grenade launchers and large-caliber weapons and ammunition.

Access to explosives, riot equipment and wheeled armored or tactical vehicles will also be limited. And, if departments seek access to any of these controlled equipment, they would need to provide detailed justification and officers would have to be properly trained in their use.

Problems plaguing policing in the United States was highlighted in stark relief last fall when demonstrators in Ferguson, Mo., took to the streets after 18-year-old AfricanAmerican teen Michael Brown was gunned down by a police officer. Protestors were met by officers clad in in bulletproof vests and armed with military-grade rifles and armored vehicles, some of whom launched tear gas and rubber bullets into the crowds and called demonstrators “animals.”

The situation prompted calls for reform from civil rights groups, who also shared recommendations which were reflected in the reports from the White House’s Task Force on 21st

Maryland will soon be undertaking a review of its entire criminal justice system in an attempt to root out inefficiencies that are driving high costs and but high rates of recidivism.

Senate Bill 602, signed recently into law by Gov. Larry Hogan (R), establishes a Justice Reinvestment Coordinating Council (JRCC) within the Governor’s Office of Crime Control and Prevention. The council will be chaired by the director of the Office of Crime Control and Prevention, former state senator Christopher Shank, and is tasked with using a data-driven approach in order to “develop a statewide framework of sentencing and

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Photo by Roberto Alejandro

Director Chris Shank of the Governor’s Office of Crime Control and Prevention discusses a new council to root out inefficiencies that drive high costs and recidivism rates in our criminal justice system.

Michael Cryor Tapped to Head Mayor’s OneBaltimore Join the more than 445, 000 Facebook fans who follow the AFRO, the Black newspaper with the largest digital reach in the country.

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By Kamau High Special to the AFRO In the wake of the riots that followed the death of Freddie Gray while in police custody, Mayor Stephanie Rawlings-Blake named Michael Cryor, a well-respected civic leader, to lead the OneBaltimore effort.

Rawlings-Blake announced the formation of OneBaltimore, a publicprivate partnership focusing on improving education, employment, minority and women-owned business opportunities, and affordable housing, among other things. In tapping Cryor to lead the initiative, RawlingsBlake said at a news conference, “As

soon as we for what needs launched the to be done both OneBaltimore now and in initiative, the long-term, Michael’s to lead the name was transformative at the top of change that my list as the OneBaltimore right choice can create.” to lead this Cryor, effort, and his with a long Photo by Mark Dennis history of civic name was at Michael Cryor expounds on the top of the and political OneBaltimore. list of many, involvement many others, in Baltimore too. including “I know co-chairing that he has the understanding and Gov. Martin O’Malley’s Believe experience in our city, and the vision campaign, said that he would first

New Wiretapping Law May Not Affect Balto.

County Policing

By Linda Dorsey-Walker Special to the AFRO

This year freshman Del. Charles Sydnor III (Baltimore County – 44B), sponsored HB 533, the Public Safety – Law Enforcement Officers – Body–Worn Digital Recording Device and Electronic

Some states have embraced body cameras, but the Maryland FOP argued that use of such equipment violated Maryland law forbidding concealed audiotaping.

Control Device bill, which revised the existing wiretapping law, which had stood in the way of implementing body cameras by Maryland law enforcement officers.

Following a national call for police body cameras after the shooting of an unarmed African American in Ferguson, Missouri, many see the technology as the best tool to assure fair law enforcement by police often accused of racial profiling.

focus on increasing the number of jobs available to high-school student by 50 percent through the city’s Youth Works program.

The program is for young people aged 14-21, and the city has provided funds for about 4,500 positions, Cryor said. The problem is that close to 8,000 people have registered for the program, which begins on June 25 and pays a minimum of $8.25 an hour for 25-hours a week of work. The city is looking for private donations to cover the gap.

The jobs range from working in an office to working outside. “In many cases it will be work outside; gardening, cleaning up, or what have Continued on A8

MICA Weighs In on Injustice #BlackLives Matter: Graduates displayed the sentiment prominently at MICA’s May 18 ceremony during which more than 480 undergraduates, the largest class thus far, were awarded Bachelor of Fine Arts degrees at the Joseph Meyerhoff Symphony Hall in Baltimore.

President Samuel Hoi challenged this first class of his presidency to use their talents to help solve the nation’s most pressing issues, including injustice. “Our future needs your mind, your spirit, your skills and your dreams,” he told them.

See more at: http://www. mica.edu/News/ MICA_Graduates_ Cap_Year_of_ Growth_and_ Challenge_at_ Commencement_ Ceremonies. html#sthash.

1a8VGvKx.dpuf

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Photos by Andrew Copeland

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The Baltimore Afro-American, May 23, 2015 - May 29, 2015

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Nine Ga. Deputies Fired following Death of Nigerian Man While in Custody

Nine Georgia deputies were fired May 8 in connection with the death of a Nigerian man while in police custody five months earlier.

According to CNN, Mathew Ajibade, 21, was arrested in Savannah, Ga. on Jan. 1 when police received a Facebook photo. phone call about a domestic Mathew Ajibade’s family disturbance. Chatham believes police tasered County, Ga. Sheriff’s Office him while he was in police deputies responding to the custody. scene allegedly saw Ajibade holding a bruised and bleeding woman under a blanket. Ajibade suffered from bipolar disorder, according to a lawyer hired by his family.

Ajibade was arrested and handcuffed to a chair in an isolation cell after he became combative with officers during the booking process, The Guardian reported. Ajibade’s family believes police Tasered him while he was strapped to the chair, according to NBC News; he was later found unresponsive.

In the immediate aftermath of Ajibade’s death, two deputies were suspended without pay pending the results of an investigation, police said.

Authorities have not detailed the exact role the nine fired deputies played in Ajibade’s death. The Georgia Bureau of Investigation and the Internal Affairs Division of the Chatham County, Ga. Sheriff’s Office are both conducting investigations.

The Sheriff’s Office said it will institute new procedures that require medical personnel to be notified when a person with medication arrives for booking, as well as new implement security procedures to review the use of Taser-like devices and a clear written policy of when Tasers may not be used, according to CNN.

Mumia Abu-Jamal Supporters Decry Alleged Poor Medical Treatment

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Friends and supporters of activist and journalist Mumia Abu-Jamal, who was convicted for the 1982 killing of a Pennsylvania police officer, are decrying the quality of medical care being provided by that state’s Department of Corrections to the ailing prisoner.

“This man’s life is in danger; we will not allow you to kill him,” said Dr. Suzanne Ross, who is among the leading voices

calling for Abu-Jamal’s release or improved treatment while in prison.

Ross and others, including Abu-Jamal’s brother, Keith Cook, delivered an open letter to Department of Corrections Secretary John Wetzel in Harrisburg, Pa. in April documenting the medical neglect and malpractice which they said has defined his treatment in prison.

Abu-Jamal was hospitalized May 12 with reports of a fever and open wounds and sores on his legs, according to a posting on his Facebook page.

That hospitalization came after Mumia Abu-Jamal was months of deteriorating health, hospitalized May 12 with the underlying reasons for reports of a fever and which remains undiagnosed. open wounds and sores Over a period of four on his legs months, Abu-Jamal has lost approximately 60 to 80 pounds, supporters said. A skin ailment, diagnosed as eczema, has worsened—images provided by family members show patches of blackened, leathery, cracking skin, which they say is itchy and bloody. Abu-Jamal also swelled due to a severe allergic reaction to steroids given him.

On March 30, his still-undiagnosed condition became life-threatening when he was rushed to an outside hospital after fainting from diabetic shock. His blood sugar level was found to be 779, right on the brink of the 800 level that marks diabetic coma. His salt level was 168, which is associated with heart attack and brain aneurysm. Just a few days later, he was returned to the prison infirmary.

The once physically-imposing man has been reduced to using a wheelchair, his breath is labored and his speech is sometimes slurring and halting, supporters report.

“His spirits are good. But it’s going to take a while for him to be the Mumia we all know and love,” his brother, Keith Cook, said in a recorded statement outside of SCI Mahoney prison in Frackville, Pa., where he visited Abu-Jamal on April 3.

Supporters say Abu-Jamal’s condition is an indictment of the poor diet and inadequate medical care often given to prisoners, which can amount to “institutional murder.”

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May 23, 2015 - May 29, 2015, The Baltimore Afro-American

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Holton Opponent Challenges Focus of Balto. Politics

By Roberto Alejandro Special to the AFRO

Kristerfer Burnett is running for City Council in Baltimore’s 8th district. He wants to put his record of community organizing and activism to work for the district where his family has resided for three generations.

Burnett served as the lead organizer for SEIU on the ‘Good Jobs, Better Baltimore’ campaign from 2011-2012. He has since served as the executive director of Comprehensive Housing Assistance, a non-profit working to develop thriving communities through equitable access to housing.

In 2013, Burnett founded Neighbors without Borders, an advocacy organization working to strengthen Southwest Baltimore. The group will open a farmer’s market at EdmondsonWestside High School in June. Burnett also has experience in local politics, having managed the successful 2014 campaign of freshman delegate Cory McCray (D-Baltimore City). “[The 8th district] has to have someone that . . . shows up for work, both in the community and the council,” said Burnett during an interview with the AFRO. “We need someone that has a strong vision for the neighborhood and is built to do the work.”

Burnett’s vision includes ensuring that the benefits of development reach further into Baltimore’s struggling neighborhoods. To do this, says Burnett, development projects have to be viewed as “people projects” first and foremost.

“If we’re talking about attracting people to want to live in our city, if we’re talking about older adults to want to age in place, and young families to want to raise their children and send [them to] schools here, that has to be the focus of redeveloping our neighborhoods,” said Burnett.

Burnett cites the year one schools in the 21st Century

Buildings Plan as an example of an approach to new construction that more effectively involved communities in the decision making process. He said this approach needs to be extended to more development projects in order to ensure the community is not the last to know about projects impacting and transforming their neighborhoods.

“That can’t be [a situation], where people are finding out about decisions that are going to impact their lives from Twitter photo a third party, or when Kristerfer Burnett is a candidate the deal is already done. for city council in Baltimore’s 8th We see [this] often, the decision’s already made district. and we’re telling you what’s going to happen to you, not how we can work with you and make you a part of this process. I think that has to be the new face of development in Baltimore City . . . you have to hear the voice of the community and have them get a seat at the table,” said Burnett.

The city’s reliance on the state for a substantial portion of its education budget must also change, says Burnett. Baltimore needs to not only increase the amount it spends on city schools, but on recreation centers and youth workforce development, in order to combat the allure of street economies and their concomitant impact on public safety.

“If we’re not providing alternatives [for youth] then you

end up spending so much money on public safety. We have to increase the funding for education, and the quality of education that our kids have, and the things that they’re doing outside of school as well, if we’re going to keep them out of that element.

But you can’t have it both ways, and we’re certainly not going to police our way out of this issue,” said Burnett.

The city also needs to make sure that workforce development programs are preparing residents for jobs available in the area, as well as working to reduce obstacles to workforce development such as finding ways to limit the costs of apprenticeships for those who would prefer entering trades to pursuing a college degree.

Improving the city’s workforce preparedness will also require improving Baltimore’s public transportation infrastructure. Having companies like Under Armour or Amazon in South Baltimore will not be an economic boon if residents cannot get there in a reasonable time-frame on public transportation, says Burnett.

A subpar public transit system is also having an effect on school attendance, something that has ripple effects on the city’s workforce preparedness. “When we talk to teachers and administrators [about] why attendance rates are so low, part of it is the buses are late, or they’re not showing up at all, and so a lot of kids are like, ‘I’ll just stay home,’” said Burnett.

Fixing public transportation, however, is something that will require state action, and Burnett says that his relationship with delegates in the state legislature, as well as his experience testifying in Annapolis as an organizer, gives him a leg up in trying to address issues requiring state and city cooperation.

“I’m a strong voice for change in Baltimore City,” said Burnett. “I work hard, I’ve had a track record of working hard, and I continue to work hard, and we need in this city people willing to do that and engage our voters along the way.”

to repeat the offense when incarcerated due to the collateral consequences of being jailed such as job loss and strained personal connections. Addressing this inefficiency should occur at the pre-trial level, before incarceration is on the table.

“What are you going to do during that period of time [incarceration] to give someone the opportunity to take the tools to transform their lives, to make things right in terms of any victims involved, and then to have a successful life when they get on the outside?” said Shank.

Another important stage is at the community corrections level, where people have been released from prison but are still under state supervision (i.e., parole or probation). “There’s a lot more people who are being supervised in the community.

What can we do there in terms of treatment, in terms of reentry, in terms of providing employment opportunities?

What is going on in terms of the collateral consequences that we need to address that are inhibiting people from successfully reentering society as well?” said Shank.

If Maryland is going to reduce recidivism, not to mention the costs associated with our criminal justice system, then the state needs a complete and data-driven picture of how that system operates. Senate Bill 602 requires the JRCC to request technical assistance from the Council of State Governments Justice Center and the Public

Performance Safety Project of the Pew Center on the States for the purposes of analyzing our system and developing the Justice Reinvestment Coordinating Council’s policy recommendations, which are due to the governor on or before Dec. 31.

“What my goal to produce [for] Gov. Hogan and to the state of Maryland, in terms of this whole process, is, for the first time, a holistic, critical examination of our criminal justice system. Who’s doing what in that criminal justice system, and how efficiently are we doing it, and how can we do it better?

Once we have that analysis, then we have an opportunity to look at cost savings, but then we also have an opportunity to reduce the recidivism rate. And that provides a more safe society, a more just society,” said Shank.

Criminal Justice System Continued from A1

corrections policies to further reduce the State’s incarcerated population, reduce spending on corrections, and reinvest in strategies to increase public safety and reduce recidivism,” according to the law.

According to Shank, during a discussion with the AFRO about the work and mission of the council, the review of our criminal justice system will shift the focus from whether the State is being tough or soft on crime, to whether it is being smart.

“In America, in the 60s through the 90s, there was the dichotomy between soft on crime, and tough on crime, and people talked past each other. The result was swings in our criminal justice policy that were ‘A’, either retributive, or ‘B’, focused on rehabilitative [policies]. And they kind of crossed each other, and the result was a criminal justice system in the state of Maryland that spends a billion dollars a year and has a recidivism rate of 40 percent. And so, the question is, are there things that we can do better?” said Shank.

Doing better will require being able to make a distinction, with respect to persons who have broken the law, between those we are afraid of and those we are mad at, says Shank, who was quick to note that this turn of phrase did not originate with him.

“People that we’re afraid of, who have committed violent crimes against our citizens, they need to be put in a place where they can do no more additional harm. People that we’re mad at, that have violated laws, that are doing things that are destructive to themselves, others, and society, there are things that we can do within our arsenal that do involve incarceration but also involve finding better ways of dealing with situations,” said Shank.

This means analyzing, and where necessary, rethinking our approach at every stage in the criminal justice process. Shank gives the example of someone charged with a non-violent drug offense such as possession that data shows will be more likely

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“We are grateful that President Obama and the Policing Task Force he appointed listened to the calls for reform made by civil rights groups and activists. We also owe a debt of gratitude to those in Ferguson who used their activism to expose the shocking truth about local law enforcement reliance on this type of equipment,” said Sherrilyn Ifill, president and director-counsel of the NAACP Legal Defense and Education Fund, in a statement.

Rep. Donna Edwards, D-Md., who co-sponsored the Stop Militarizing Law Enforcement Act, also hailed the president’s announcement.

“Last June, I was only one of 62 House members (43 Democrats) to support an amendment that would have prevented the Department of Defense from distributing heavy weapons and vehicles to local police forces. While I applaud the efforts and courage our police departments continue to show each and every day, I feel that militarizing them will not solve

“We also owe a debt of gratitude to those in Ferguson who used their activism to expose the shocking truth about local law enforcement reliance on this type of equipment.”

– Sherrilyn Ifill the unrest that continues among our communities,” Edwards said. “I thank the President for leading on this ongoing issue

of building strong relationships between law enforcement officers and those who they serve and protect.”

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The Baltimore Afro-American, May 23, 2015 - May 29, 2015

‘Baltimore Uprising’ Listening Session at First Unitarian Universalist Church

By Holly Wise Managing Editor, VoiceBox Media

The First Unitarian Universalist Church held a meeting May 17 to have a listening session about the church’s response during the Baltimore Uprising, and how they plan to move forward in supporting the community.

About 20 people, members and visitors, gathered in a half-circle and spoke about their experiences during the April 25 riot following Freddie Gray’s funeral. The Rev. David Olson said he was at the funeral and was surprised at how quickly the crowds became violent after the funeral.

It was an authentic hourlong conversation with many people sharing vulnerably their experiences and feelings.

C.J. Austin, a community activist, said coming to church after the riot was difficult.

“Honestly that Sunday afterwards coming to church – I had a really different feeling coming to church from the neighborhood that I live in – coming to church, I

of the church and a 4-year resident of Baltimore, shares emotionally about what she sees in her neighborhood.

“I went to one talk last week and what one of the

“This was the richest conversation I’ve had a chance to listen to.”

don’t know. I know you guys love me but it felt really out of place because of what was going on in my neighborhood and then coming here.”

Rev. David Olson shared a conversation he had with a long-time friend in Chicago: “She said: White people.

You don’t get it. We don’t

want to talk anymore. You don’t get the pain. Go on YouTube and see what’s there.

There are plenty of resources that you can study – you don’t need me to be in the room to study because I don’t need to relive that pain.”

Olson shares a conversation he heard with

300 other people: “This was the richest conversation I’ve had a chance to listen to. What one of the sisters said toward the end was: we need to build a diff movement – this must be a movement of sustainability, this must be a movement of intersectionality and this

BDC Establishes the Baltimore Business Recovery Fund The Baltimore Development Corporation (BDC) has established the Baltimore Business Recovery Fund (BBR Fund) to aid the many businesses, which experienced property damage and/or inventory loss during the unrest. The goal is to raise $15 million, which will be used to fund the Baltimore Business Recovery loan program.

The BBR Fund was kicked off at the Greater Baltimore Committee’s annual meeting with a text pledging campaign that resulted in more than $200K committed to help the affected businesses.

The BBR Fund will be used to make zero interest loans up to $35,000 to the affected businesses. These loans may be convertible into grants if certain benchmarks are met. The loans will be made available when enough funds have been raised.

Donations to the Baltimore Business Recovery Fund are tax deductible. Please visit www.BaltimoreDevelopment/

must be a movement of spirituality. Some of us chant and pray before we go to a demonstration. Some of us show up with sage to anoint one another. Some of us carry bottles of rose water. Some of us have a banana and if we notice one of our brothers needs to get down on his energy, we say eat this.

Some of us see people burning themselves out in this movement and we don’t say, “You need to learn to say no.”

We say, “What’s the work you’re doing? I can do that work and now you take a day off.”

This notion that this a long haul struggle is something that is so comforting for me and the fact that all these leaders were so much younger than I gave me such hope about what might happen in this country that I love and this people that I adore. I have a new sense of possibility for us.”

C.J. Austin, a member

Donations to make a contribution.

“As Baltimore works harder to foster economic inclusion and create jobs, the health of the City’s economy is vital,” said William H. Cole, president and CEO of the Baltimore Development Corporation. “Small businesses play a crucial role in not only strengthening the economy, but also serve a strong need in the

neighborhoods in which they operate.”

To date, approximately 350 businesses were affected and many have limited coverage or no insurance, very often as a result of loss of coverage. Some businesses were so severely damaged that they still remain closed and their owners left with no source of income.

The BDC in coordination with the City of Baltimore

and other local, state and federal agencies is leading the rebuilding efforts has been reaching out to these businesses to catalogue the extent of the damage and determine what resources may be needed to get them back on their feet. Businesses that suffered property damage or inventory loss can contact the BDC through www.

BaltimoreBusinessRecovery. org.

Resources for Businesses

• BaltimoreBusinessRecovery.org. The goal is to catalogue the damage suffered by every business and their needs to connect them with resources that become available.

• Baltimore Development Corporation is coordinating the following efforts:

- Businesses with resources to provide should contact Karl Bradley, kbradley@baltimoredevelopment.com or Matthew Kachura MKachura@baltimoredevelopment.com.

- Businesses in need of assistance should contact Will Beckford WBeckford@baltimorecity.gov or Dan Taylor DTaylor@ baltimoredevelopment.com.

• The U.S. Small Business Administration has approved a Maryland request for a disaster declaration to enable people to apply for low-interest loans to repair damage in Baltimore caused by rioting.

Credit Union to Help Residents Affected by Uprising

Maryland’s largest credit union has launched four programs To encourage members to support and visit Baltimore City aimed at helping individuals, organizations, businesses, and and its attractions, SECU is also offering five times the points places of worship impacted by the recent acts of violence in or 5 percent cash back to anyone using a qualified SECU credit Baltimore City. card at city museums, theaters, and sports venues, including the SECU is holding a Household Supply Drive to benefit National Aquarium in Baltimore, the Maryland Science Center, families affected by the Baltimore riots. Household items will Port Discovery, Baltimore Museum of Art, American Visionary include cleaning supplies, laundry detergent, dish towels, paper Art Museum, B&O Railroad Museum, Walters Art Museum, products, hand soap and sponges and can be dropped off until and Baltimore Orioles, to name a few.

May 15 at any SECU branch statewide.

“Through our Love BMore promotion, we are encouraging “Those donations will be delivered our members to support the people and to families in need,” says SECU places of Baltimore from Memorial President and CEO Rod Staatz, Day through June 30 by using “but that’s just the beginning of our their SECU Rewards, SECU Visa commitment. We will also be reaching Signature®, SECU Cash-Back, or out to various organizations to see SECU Aspire credit cards,” explains where we can expand our financial Staatz. education and personal responsibility Finally, SECU is encouraging its efforts.” employees and members to contribute According to Staatz, SECU will to the Maryland Unites Fund. also be offering low-interest SECU Established by the United Way of loans, called the One Baltimore Loan Central Maryland in conjunction with Program, to SECU members who the State of Maryland, the Maryland experienced a loss of work, damage to Unites Fund provides for 100 Stock Photo personal or business property, or other SECU is holding a Household Supply percent of all donations to go toward hardship due to the recent events in humanitarian relief and emergency Drive to benefit families affected by the Baltimore City. support for nonprofits in affected Baltimore riots.

Available from May 15 through Baltimore City neighborhoods.

June 30, these loans will be offered “We know that Baltimore is a at a highly discounted rate to individuals who live or work in strong and generous city and we will recover,” says Staatz.

Baltimore City. Loan applications, which must be submitted at “SECU will continue to support our members and our city a SECU branch (not online or through the call center), can be not only during this tumultuous time, but in building strong for up to $10,000. communities going forward.”

– Rev. David Olson ministers said is: We don’t need more white allies. We need freedom fighters. And it’s true. Because just like walking through my neighborhood and I see teenage boys just minding their own business and they’re in handcuffs with six cops standing with them and they haven’t even done anything.

And there’s people that they will never have to worry about their son being in that situation and I’m tired of seeing that.

For me, that’s not something I grew up seeing, it’s stuff I saw on TV but now I’m seeing it in a reality that I live in.”

Baltimore Community Hosts Police Misconduct Forum

By Reynaldo Leanos Jr. and Chelsea Seifert VoiceBox Media Storytellers

The No Boundaries Coalition, The Greater Baltimore Leadership Coalition and other local organizations hosted the first of many upcoming public forums, May 16, to give community members an opportunity to talk about their experiences involving police misconduct.

One of the main goals of the forum was to collect video testimony and use it as evidence to push for the community’s civilian review board legislation.

Ray Kelly, president of the No Boundaries Coalition said the forum helped bring hope to the community.

Baltimore resident Taleara Marrow attended the forum and shared her brother’s story involving police misconduct.

“I just think when you have actual residents give testimonies about the way things are it empowers other residents and makes them feel like their voice is going to be heard,” said Kelly after the event.

Participation in the event was better than expected and set the tone for upcoming forums to let the community know they are not meant to be intrusive, or overbearing, said Kelly.

“We had about 20 residents, but only 10 people testified, which was excellent,” said Kelly. “It was just a chance to stand there in front of other residents in your community and say how you feel and no one judged anyone.”

Lisa Mills, resident of the Sandtown-Winchester neighborhood in Baltimore, participated in the video testimony portion of the forum and said solidarity is needed

“The public and the police departments somehow or another have to come together.”

– Lisa Mills to bridge the gap between the community and police.

“The public and the police departments somehow or another have to come together,” Mills said after the event.

“That’s the reason I told my story today. We have to bridge that gap.”

Mills said the relationship between the two groups mutually rely on the respect of each other due to residents needing the police and vice versa.

Mills said communication is key for people to stop being afraid of the police and begin to rely on the services they provide.

The next town hall meeting will be 1 p.m., May 30. The city council president, councilmen in the Western district, the mayor’s office on criminal justice and the mayor’s office of civil rights will be in attendance.

For more information about upcoming events, contact the No Boundaries Coalition. @VoiceBoxMedia is an itinerant team of Texas-based journalists who tell the stories of change makers world wide – giving voice to the voiceless. They recently visited Baltimore and took note at places where locals gathered to express their frustration and channel it into “something better.”

Follow them on Twitter or visit their website thevoiceboxmedia.org.

May 23, 2015 - May 29, 2015, The Baltimore Afro-American

A5

WOMEN’S HEALTH

Glaucoma, Cataracts among Black Women

Barbados Eye Study, researchers have investigated how glaucoma affects different Black populations, globally and found that with such a prevalence among For generations, a belief has existed Blacks, grouping based on race may among African Americans that gradual help physicians better understand the loss of eye sight was both normal and risk factors for African Americans, and natural. The culprits in most cases, eventually, in developing more effective cataracts and glaucoma, have come to treatments. be associated with growing older in the According to the Baltimore Eye same manner as developing arthritis, Study, primary open angle glaucoma though both are largely preventable and, (OAG), the most common form of like many degenerative conditions, attack glaucoma in the US, impacts an Blacks disproportionately, due to poor estimated 2.2 million Americans over fitness. age 40. OAG is three times more Cataracts and glaucoma are the prevalent among African Americans leading causes of blindness in the Black in the United States than among community with the diseases striking Caucasians and similarly impacts Black earlier and progressing quicker among West Indian populations in St. Lucia and Black women than any other population.

Barbados at rates of 8.8 percent and 6.6 Half of those with glaucoma don’t know percent, respectively. they have it.

While the prevalence of glaucoma in Cataracts are characterized by African Americans in the United States progressive damage to the optic nerve is three to four times that of Caucasian that tends to begin with the loss of side patients, African Americans are six to or peripheral vision, then gradually the 10 times more likely to go blind from loss of central vision, until the total sight glaucoma when compared to their is compromised. Cataracts develop as a Caucasian counterparts. In addition, result of clouding in the lens of the eye the Baltimore Eye study found that that affects clear vision. There is often African Americans appeared to develop pressure felt in the eye with cataracts glaucoma 10 years earlier than their that many believe is linked to an onset White counterparts, leading researchers of glaucoma, where fluid inside the eye to debate the inherent increased does not drain properly from a buildup of susceptibility to disease or development that pressure inside the eye. based on socioeconomic factors.

In both conditions, people with “There is significant proof that access diabetes type 1 or 2 are at very high to physicians and poor follow-up impede risk for their development and more diagnosis and treatment or late diagnosis likely to develop them at younger among minority patients, but there are ages. In fact, high levels of blood also factors that the medical community sugar (hypoglycemia) are significantly may never fully understand when it related to cataract development, as are comes to how stress and hypertension hypertension and prolonged steroid use react in the body,” said Hasin Abdullah, (for treating conditions like asthma). a holistic practitioner in Southeast, D.C. Researchers, including Carla J. “It is not to dismiss the fact that Siegfried and David C. Beebe, have too many of us are overweight, but worked since 2011 to more succinctly malnourished – meaning the junk we position the oxygen flow (oxygen consume is literally going into our metabolism) and pressure in the optic systems and consuming us – we are nerve to the development of cataracts strapped as Black people with stressors and glaucoma. Their findings have that make us sleep deprived, depressed, helped unlock race-based differences in anxious, and sometimes resistant to development and progression.

Western medicine,” Abdullah said.

“Our findings suggest there may Suggesting that Blacks return to a be physiologic differences in oxygen holistic approach in improving their metabolism between African Americans overall health, Abdullah said that water and Caucasians,” said Siegfried.

“Glaucoma often affects African Courtesy photo intake, proper sleep and hygiene, and Americans at a younger age, and when Diet and exercise, along with following the doctor’s orders can help prevent many of the conditions the elimination of sugary and salty processed foods would go a long way in we used statistical methods to adjust associated with the development of glaucoma and cataracts. improving the diabetes and hypertension for differences in age, the difference numbers, and subsequently impact the in oxygen levels between African prevalence of glaucoma and cataracts Americans and Caucasians became more among Black women. sight will never go back to the way it was. I take the blame. significant. Then, when we controlled “We have to get those screenings as African Americans, and If I can help someone keep from going through this, I want to for racial differences, we found that increased age became then act responsibly in following the doctors’ orders. Changing help.” an important indicator of elevated oxygen levels in certain our living habits is critical to our health,” Abdullah said.

In studies such as the Baltimore Eye Survey and the locations in the front part of the eye.”

While glaucoma is usually, but not always, associated with elevated pressure in the eye (intraocular pressure), elevated eye pressure that leads to damage of the optic nerve is believed to be caused by poor regulation of blood flow – as seen in hypertension

By Shantella Y. Sherman “The antioxidants and diabetes patients. Glaucoma occurs about five Special to the AFRO in the fruits and times more often in African Americans; blindness vegetables that we from glaucoma is about six times more common. In The Glaucoma Research Foundation and the American Diabetes eat can potentially addition to this higher frequency, glaucoma often Association suggest a number of tips to help safeguard and improve block oxidation occurs earlier in life in African Americans — on the eye sight of those concerned with developing glaucoma and stress that can lead average, about 10 years earlier than in other ethnic cataracts. Among them: to cell damage in populations.

• Get regular eye checkups because eye diseases don’t always glaucoma,” Giaconi Yolanda Yancy has lived with glaucoma for have symptoms. African Americans over age 35 should get a said. nearly three years. Despite the slow dissipation of comprehensive dilated eye exam at least once every two years. If The Glaucoma her sight, Yancy said she ignored the warning signs you have diabetes, you need an eye exam at least once a year. Ask Research because she believed they were simply indicators your doctor how often you should have your eyes checked; Foundation found of aging. Now, at 56, her sight in both eyes has • Protect your eyes from the sun with sunglasses and a hat; evidence that deteriorated to a point where surgery is necessary.

• Don’t smoke. If you smoke, try to quit; regular exercise “African Americans may be sick of hearing that • Control your blood pressure; and can reduce eye they develop conditions quicker, have progression • Eat healthy foods, including lots of fruits and green leafy pressure on its own, rates that are higher, or have complications or death vegetables. and can also have a from diseases that others are successfully treated Following the call for holistic eating practices to combat eye positive impact on for, but that reality is there,” said Yancy, whose conditions, JoAnn A. Giaconi, a physician with the American other glaucoma risk glaucoma was the result of untreated hypertension Glaucoma Society also advocates a diet of foods that appear sightfactors including and early diabetes. “My condition is based almost protective including fresh oranges, peaches, spinach and collard diabetes and high entirely on me not eating right and not exercising.” greens and kale. blood pressure. In a Yancy, a Cheverly, Md. resident, said that even Courtesy image Of the 584 Black women participating in Giaconi’s recent study recent study, people after her initial diagnosis, she found it difficult of osteoporotic fractures, she found that glaucoma was diagnosed with glaucoma who Diet makes the difference in warding off to stick to the physician’s regiment that included and improving life with glaucoma. in at least one eye in 77 participants. Correlations between food exercised regularly controlling her diet, exercising, and taking intake and glaucoma were evaluated and she found that eating three for three months medications on time, every day. or more servings of fruit or fruit juices daily decreased the odds of reduced their IOPs “All the studies in the world and all the Black women developing glaucoma by 79 percent. More than two an average of 20 percent; those riding stationary bikes 4 times per Obamacare on the planet will not help us to live servings per week of fresh oranges and peaches also significantly week for 40 minutes saw measurable improvements in eye pressure better if we don’t stick to the basics of eating and decreased the chance of developing glaucoma. and physical conditioning; and glaucoma patients who walked exercising properly. I went from taking eye drops, Additionally, eating one serving of collard greens or kale briskly 4 times per week for 40 minutes were able to lower their to pills and now have to have surgery to keep from decreased the odds of glaucoma by 57 percent.

IOP enough to eliminate the need for beta blockers. going totally blind,” Yancy said. “The tragedy in this is that no matter what I do to stop it now, my

By Shantella Y. Sherman Special to the AFRO

Lifestyle, Dietary Links to Glaucoma, Cataracts in Black Women

A6

The Baltimore Afro-American, May 23, 2015 - May 29, 2015

TECHNOLOGY What’s the What: Step Up Your Cooking Game With These Apps

By Kamau High My mother is a terrible cook. And while I love her, even she would acknowledge that she and cooking are not the closest friends.

As a result, growing up with her after my parents split when I was a young child, we had a lot of hastily thrown together meals because she worked and I had no idea what do in a kitchen. I still have fond memories of eating baked beans and cut up hot dogs made in a casserole dish. There were also plenty of Hungry Man dinners with the chocolate cake-like square of dessert as well as eating out at fast food restaurants like McDonald’s and Kentucky Fried Chicken.

I treasure those memories of eating and laughing with my mother over dinner.

However, these days, as the person who does most of the cooking in my house, I try to make sure my wife and daughter have a varied selection of healthy, tasty meals that use different spices and utilize cuisines from around the world.

When I first started cooking for the family about five years ago I had to realize that I had no idea what I was doing in the kitchen. Sure, I could scramble eggs and make a tuna sandwich, but anything beyond that was a mystery to me. So, I turned to my smart phone for help because cookbooks seemed limited to one author’s recipes while an app could have hundreds of different recipes by different people.

Even then, there were a frighteningly large amount of cooking and recipe apps on Apple’s app store. Today, that number is even larger and includes everything from video tutorials, to straight up cookbooks, to the ability to watch some of the cooking channels. After going through a bunch of reviews I decided to start with Epicurious [free], by Conde Nast Digital. What I liked about the Epicurious app was that you could input what ingredients you had on hand and it would spit out a selection of recipes you can make with them. In addition, there are user comments and ratings on almost every recipe so you can get a feel for what others think of it. Although, you have to be careful because some people will say they substituted several key ingredients and then complain that it was terrible.

I also made the mistake of buying The Professional Chef by The Culinary Institute of America for $50. The app is a series of videos on how professional chefs cook, which is fine by itself, but useless if you are not making enough food to feed a restaurant’s worth of people.

After a using Epicurious for a while I began reading food blogs such as Serious Eats, Chow, Food Republic and Food 52 looking for inspiration and different things to try. Reading so many sites made me realize I needed an app to store and categorize all the recipes I was seeing. This led me to Pocket [free] by Read It Later. Whenever I see a recipe I want to try later, I click on it on my iPhone and it gets sent to the app. Then when I open the app it is there along with all the other recipes I’ve been meaning to try. I also use the New York Times’ cooking app [free] because it is well organized and easy to use.

After many years my cooking game is strong. It is so strong that over the weekend I was

bing.com

invited to participate in the National Coalition of 100 Black Women Baltimore Metropolitan Chapter’s annual Gourmet Chefs of Distinction. The event gathers Black professional chefs and home cooks together to show off their signature dish. Mine was BBQ shredded pork slow cooked in cumin, cinnamon, and chill powder with garlic and onions served in a mini-hamburger bun with a pickle. For the record, it was gone so quickly I had time to go around and try all the other chef’s delicious dishes.

Kamau High is a journalist living in Baltimore and can be reached at kamauhigh@yahoo. com.

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May 23, 2015 - May 29, 2015, The Baltimore Afro-American

COMMENTARY

A7

Lessons from Baltimore

This year Senator Elizabeth Warren and I have teamed up to launch a series of investigations — the Middle Class Prosperity Project — in order to focus greater congressional attention upon the bread and butter issues that matter the most to our nation’s working families.

In February, we examined the harsh reality that inadequate, stagnant wages persist despite overall worker productivity that has never been higher. As Senator Warren observed, “In the 32 years from 1980 until 2012, 90 percent of Americans got zero income growth — nothing.”

Why? A significant reason has been deliberate choices in Washington that have worsened the inequities that are starving America’s working families, suffocating consumer demand and endangering our economy.

In March and April, Senator Warren and I focused on rapidly increasing college costs, the often-staggering financial debt that Elijah Cummings threaten America’s middle class, and the exploitation of retirement savings by under-regulated “financial advisors.”

Then, in the wake of the Freddie Gray family’s personal tragedy, protests and upheaval, we brought our continuing investigation to Baltimore. Here, on May 11, we were joined by our colleague, Congressman John Sarbanes, and financial experts to examine some of the fundamental challenges that our neighbors face.

Freddie Gray’s death brought renewed attention to the importance of police and criminal justice reform.

The aftermath also highlighted the systemic economic obstacles that far too many Americans must confront and attempt to overcome every single day.

The thousands peacefully protesting on Baltimore’s streets were standing up for human dignity, but they also were sending an economic and political message. People are tired of being tired — and they are unwilling to take it quietly any more.

“Recent events in Baltimore are not the result of a single tragedy,” Senator Warren declared. “These events are also about millions of people, young and old, here and across this country, who find themselves struggling to make it in a system that is increasingly rigged against them.”

I must whole-heartedly agree.

Clearly, the economic and financial struggles that we are documenting by our investigations are not limited to Americans of Color. Millions of Caucasian families are being harmed as well.

Yet, there is little doubt that Black families, as a group, are being hardest hit. In 2013, the average wealth of America’s Caucasian families was $142,000, while the average wealth for African American families was $11,000.

We brought our investigations to Baltimore so that the eyes of the nation do not turn away before they see the full scope of our underlying economic challenges — and the urgent need to address them.

Here was our strategy.

We asked our expert witnesses in the Baltimore hearing to focus upon everyday financial transactions that middle class Americans take for granted — like cashing a paycheck or obtaining a small, short-term loan.

We focused upon the hardships and exploitation faced by families who do not have bank accounts or otherwise find it necessary to use “alternative” financial service providers: check cashers, liquor stores, online payday lenders and pawn shops.

Here is what the evidence revealed.

The hardships that these families endure are pervasive, as one of our witnesses, Ms. Mitria Wilson of the Center for Responsible Lending, pointed out. For the millions of American families, closed out of the regular banking system, the average annual cost in interest and fees that they must pay to alternative financial providers is $2,412 — 10 percent of their incomes. In perspective, that is more than the average family spends on food.

Maps of Baltimore compiled by the National Community Reinvestment Coalition graphically portrayed the dangerous and costly financial desert that dominates much of our city. A close-up of Sandtown, where Freddie Gray lived, revealed only three bank branches — but 18 “alternative” financial providers.

GOP Lunatic Center

The Republican Party doesn’t have a lunatic fringe. It has a lunatic center: a core bloc of White voters and officeholders whose extreme conservatism leads them to indulge again and again in outlandish conspiracy theories and, more seriously, proposed and enacted legislation of disgraceful callousness.

The past few weeks have offered two striking examples of how dependent the Party’s base and elected officials have become on spouting and trying to enact as legislation their own worst impulses.

One involves the American military’s three-month-long Jade Helm 15 combat-training exercises that will get underway in July and spread over various sparsely populated parts of the Southwest and West from Texas to California. The military periodically engages in such exercises, and officials said they’ve chosen these states because the terrain where the exercises will occur most closely matches the terrain where combat troops and Special Forces units have recently Lee A. Daniels seen and are likely to see action.

But to the conservative conspiracy bloc, Jade Helm 15 is, as one conspiracy-monger posted, part of Obama’s plan to provoke civil unrest, enact martial law, suspend the Constitution, suspend next year’s national elections, and extend his term of office indefinitely.

A poll released last week by Public Policy Polling organization found that 60 percent of those likely to vote in the Republican primaries believe that Jade Helm 15 could be a federal government attempt to take over Texas.

Pentagon officials have tried to calm the fears. And Arizona Sen. John McCain R-Ariz.), among a few other Republicans, derided the claims as “bizarre. We’ve been having military exercises in the Southwest for a couple of hundred years.”

But Texas Republicans by and large have held a firm line on pandering to the extremists. Texas Gov. Greg Abbott ordered the state national guard to “monitor” the military’s activities once the exercises start.

And Sen. Ted Cruz and Rep. Louie Gohmert characterized the conspiracy concerns as understandable because, as Cruz said, the Obama administration “has not demonstrated itself to be trustworthy.”

I like New York Times columnist Gail Collins’ take on this. Before noting that although the state is a hotbed of anti-Washington sentiment, more than a quarter of the committees in the House of

While some of these alternative providers offer financial services on fair terms, others employ predatory and abusive terms that lock families into long-term cycles of high-interest debt that they cannot escape.

Lessons from Baltimore Clearly, federal agencies like the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau are justified in promulgating stronger regulations against abuse. Rather than trying to roll back consumer protections and weaken the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau, we must ensure that it has authority to enforce fair regulations that will protect all consumers from abusive financial service providers.

The Congress should take a closer look at the Community Reinvestment Act, which was designed to encourage banks to invest in our communities — and the Postal Service should expand its financial services offerings, just as it did many decades ago.

These reforms would be important first steps, but far more will be required.

We need to redouble our support for early education programs like Head Start, health programs for prenatal care, lead paint abatement, early childhood development, community college programs, and employment training programs. We need to invest in infrastructure improvements that will help our communities, help our businesses, and help our workers.

What we must stop doing is what Washington has been doing for the past several years. We must stop slashing the funding for these critical programs, stop imposing harmful sequestration cuts and shutting down the government, and stop giving lucrative tax breaks to the wealthiest Americans and corporations.

Our nation’s future prosperity must rest upon the shoulders of an expanding middle class. Working together, we can assure that these lessons from Baltimore guide our way.

Congressman Elijah Cummings represents Maryland’s 7th Congressional District in the United States House of Representatives.

Representatives are currently chaired by Texas Republicans (and two of the last four presidents have been Texas Republicans), Collins wrote, “Texas is getting more diverse by the hour, so maybe that’s it.”

That population diversity – the substantial growth over the last two decades of Texas’ and the nation’s Hispanic citizens (54 million), and the sizable bloc of undocumented Hispanic immigrants (about 11 million) – is indeed what’s behind conservatives’ interest of recent years in revising the clause of the postCivil War 14th Amendment that automatically grants U.S. citizenship to “all persons born or naturalized in the United States.”

Of course, the “birthright citizenship” clause was specifically enacted to ensure that all Black Americans had full citizenship rights. But by the end of the 19th century, the court had ruled that the “all” in its language did indeed apply to all other peoples in the U.S. as well.

Now, some conservatives want to sharply narrow that bedrock characteristic of the American nation (the principle is actually older than the 14th Amendment clause). In the Senate, Louisiana’s David Vitter has been introducing a bill to narrow the clause since 2011; and in late April the House Subcommittee on Immigration and Border Security (Republican-chaired, of course) held a hearing on birthright citizenship, at which two of the three witnesses argued the issue deserves a “national debate.”

It’s clear the birthright citizenship clause is safe; the extraordinary mechanism for revising or excising a constitutional amendment makes it so.

But that doesn’t mean we should ignore the true purpose of this gambit. Conservatives aren’t primarily concerned about the children of undocumented immigrants being born here now. They’re worried – given the GOP’s hostility to immigration reform – about what party those children will support when they reach voting age.

In short, they’re worried that the children of today’s undocumented immigrants – citizens of the United States by birth – will be adding to the substantial majority of Hispanic-Americans, and other Americans of color, who have multiple reasons not to vote Republican.

So, in that regard, conservatives’ current Jade Helm 15 lunacy and their attacking the principle of birthright citizenship offer further evidence of how driven the conservative movement is by a view of American society that demands they dominate other Americans – especially the ones who are “colored.”

Lee A. Daniels is a longtime journalist based in New York City. His new collection of columns, Race Forward: Facing America’s Racial Divide in 2014, is available at www.amazon.com

A New Normal for Baltimore...and Beyond

As the light continues to shine on Baltimore it is an opportunity for us to show the world how we transform broken down neighborhoods and the lives of many of the individuals living in them. There is no getting around the number of boarded up houses that still exist in our city and cities like Baltimore around the nation and the injustices through mass incarceration that has helped to create criminal records for so many young men in our communities.

Solution Baltimore has several colleges and institutions of higher living that graduate thousands of students each year. We have not addressed how we keep some of those graduates in Baltimore. Visualize if you will that we ask all of our Baltimore area colleges and universities to identify; and I’ll choose an arbitrary number (200) students who are expected to graduate that are interested in living in Baltimore.

Working in collaboration with our business community both profit Catherine Pugh and non-profits we secure for those graduates employment in our city and surrounding jurisdictions. Here is where the pendulum swings in the direction of increasing our population and reducing the number of boarded up houses in our city. With our colleges and universities we create these neighborhoods, can you imagine the Morgan-Johns HopkinsLoyola Community, the Coppin-University of Maryland Community, the Maryland Institute College of Art-University of Baltimore community in these areas where we have block after block of boarded up houses. The city working through the eminent domain process would give to those graduates a boarded up house for $1 and require them to pay around $2,000 a year to the city which provides the taxes to the city and puts those properties back on the tax rolls. The agreement with these new home owners is the city will not assess their properties for 10 years while they renovate those homes and live in them. The city would get the banks and perhaps this is where the city, state and federal government and some public private partnerships come together to provide low interest loans and grants to help them renovate those properties.

Tax breaks and tax incentive financing that we give to the development of downtown can be activated for these new communities. Some of this we already do.

Not only are we reducing the boarded up homes in our city faster we are building wealth through home ownership for those graduates who take advantage of this opportunity. I started my first business with the equity I had built up in my home.

One Step Further This effort could yield 1500-3,000 houses a year that would require renovating. This week Gov. Hogan will sign a bill I wrote asking the state to create a demonstration project for those exiting our penal institutions to create their own businesses. I wrote this bill based on an experience I had campaigning. I

stopped by a business and asked a gentleman if I could put a sign up on his business. The gentleman asked me if I remembered him and I replied no. He said you were my graduation speaker. I’m looking at the man trying to figure out whether that was high school or college. He said…”You were my graduation speaker in prison….I never forgot what you said,”…and he repeated to me what I did say. “Congratulations guys, this is a big day for you having earned your GED…but let me say to you…You have a hard road ahead of you…but let me suggest if you have skills and the capacity to operate a business start one…and give good customer service, because what people care about is the quality of your service not your background. “ He went on to say…”that was me five years ago…this is my business…and when you finish go across town and put your sign on my other business.” The gentleman operates an automobile repair shop. He also pointed out to me that the people he was training were also ex-offenders.

This step forward with our graduating students will create thousands of homes a year to be renovated.

It gives Baltimore another opportunity to create jobs and businesses for so many in our city that have been caught up in the criminal justice system. We could create training programs that can lead to real jobs and business opportunities in construction, plumbing, remodeling, landscaping, renovation and demolition for many individuals in this community that have the capacity to do this work.

In communities like Sandtown-Winchester we need side-by-side and expungement centers, GED programs, jobs training and a Business Creation Center and perhaps a manufacturing plant so that we show a real commitment to turning that community around. We have to remember that there are other families living in Sandtown-Winchester who are not all poor, but have bought homes, and have lived there for decades only to watch the lack of investment tear their neighborhoods apart.

We have to come to the realization that minimum wage jobs are not sufficient for some people with families to take care of them. That’s why we have to recommit ourselves to new ways and innovative ideas that can lead to the transformation of broken neighborhoods and broken people.

New Way Finally as we move in this direction there has to be conversations and action on how we do drug treatment in these neighborhoods that don’t lead to the closing or mass exit of businesses as we have seen in Charles Village that is now inundated with drug treatment facilities. It is not that Baltimore doesn’t need drug treatment but it does need to create facilities away from communities in communal holistic environments that take them away from the behavior that led them to the condition that they find themselves in today. In those settings we can provide drug treatment, job training and skills that can lead them to more productive lives. Ask yourself one question…If you were a drug dealer where would you set up shop…and Baltimore, like so many cities, makes it more difficult to get off drugs when the drug dealer stands across the street or near the facility selling drugs and keeping folks in this condition.

The new normal for Baltimore and Communities like Baltimore will take resources, new thinking, new ideas and a commitment to transform neighborhoods and the lives of people who not only nee Sen. Catherine E. Pugh represents Baltimore’s 40th District.

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May 9, 2015 - May 9, 2015, The Baltimore Afro-American

The Baltimore Afro-American, May 23, 2015 - May 29, 2015

City Council Seeks Cost of Uprising Aftermath

By Kamau High Special to the AFRO The City Council on Monday set a hearing to assess the costs of overtime incurred by the Police Department, Fire Department , and other city agencies during and after the riots earlier this year. Sponsored by Council Vice President Edward Reisinger, District 10, the hearings are meant to shed light on the long term budget effects of the increased overtime and workmen’s compensation claims filed as a result of dealing with the unrest.

“Because of the civil unrest that occurred in our city we should be concerned about the impact that it’s going to have not just on next year’s budget but our future budgets. I have questions on the overtime of the police and the fire department and other agencies. The other

“Because of the civil unrest that occurred in our city we should be concerned about the impact that it’s going to have not just on next year’s budget but our future budgets.”

– Edward Reisinger question I’m concerned about is what is the cost for those counties and subdivisions that supplied us with those resources,” said Reisinger.

“What really concerns me is the workmen’s compensation claims that I’m hearing are coming through the city because the city is self-insured and we don’t know what the cost is. Are they permanent disabilities or temporary disabilities? We have to know what

. . . it’s going to cost the city of Baltimore. I’m hearing 150-200 police and firefighters are on permanent disability. What effect will that have on deployment in our streets?”

There will be a hearing on June 9 and representatives for the police and firefighters are expected to answer questions.

In other news, the Council called for a hearing with city agencies and non-profit

Wiretapping Law

organizations on ways to steer developers to distressed areas of the city. Introduced by City Council president Bernard C. “Jack” Young, a date for the hearing has yet to be set.

“Neighborhoods down in the Harbor and neighborhoods where development make sense, developers flock to those areas.

We want to see if we can get most of the city’s agencies to come up with tools to try to push development to the less desired neighborhoods, said Young. “We did that with the Poppleton in Pete Welch’s district [9] and we want to see how we can push it further into other districts with some incentives and thinking outside of the box so that we can stretch the investments.”

Young was referring to a recent proposal to steer $58 million to developers for use in the Poppleton neighborhood in West Baltimore.

Michael Cryor

Continued from A1

While some states embraced body cameras, the Maryland FOP argued that use of such equipment violated Maryland law forbidding concealed audiotaping. The original law, called the Maryland Wiretap and Electronic Surveillance Act, protected individuals from being audiotaped at times “when they should have a reasonable expectation of privacy.”

The new law enables officers when making an arrest or using a Taser, to make both an audio and video recording of their actions without witness knowledge or Court permission.

The law permits use of Taser mounted audio/visual cameras that automatically turn on the instant a batterypowered Taser is unholstered.

It does not overturn the legal ban against concealed audiotaping by average citizens.

Before passage of the bill, nineteen small Maryland jurisdictions began use of audio/video body cameras by police or sheriffs without any clamor Delegate Sydnor is the 41 years old son of Charles Sydnor Jr., a longtime employee of the Maryland Parole and Probation Department, giving the Delegate a special knowledge of the criminal justice system.

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Continued from A1

According to Sydnor, “This bill provides an exception, under certain explicit circumstances, to the state’s wiretap law for law enforcement officers to record oral communications with body cameras and Tasers.

Law Enforcement body-worn cameras have been in the forefront of a national debate this legislative session. The tragedies in New York, South Carolina, and Oklahoma provided the backdrop for this legislation to be passed here in Maryland. I believe that if police officers are equipped with body cameras that capture sound, the unfortunate encounters that have occurred in some of our communities will be reduced.”

Primary sponsor of the legislation on the Senate side, SB482, was Baltimore County Sen. Shirley Nathan-Pulliam.

Ironically, while two County legislators played a vital role in its passage, the new law may not be implemented in Baltimore County.

On Dec. 5, 2014 Baltimore County Executive Kevin Kamenetz directed Chief Johnson of County Police to establish a task force to study the benefits and difficulties associated with the possible use of body cameras by officers.

The groups was to report its

findings in 90 days. However, after five months that task force has yet to publish a report, which means neither the Baltimore County Police Chief or Baltimore County Executive Kamenetz has reached no decision.

According to Elise Armacost, BCPD Director of Media and Communications, “The process is only just now winding down. Baltimore County Police believe that the key to good police/community relations is and must always be trust and transparency – not any particular technology.

We feel that overall we do enjoy a good relationship with our citizens. We did have a conversation with the County NAACP and ACLU.” Some in Baltimore County’s African American community have suggested the County may be deliberately “slow-walking” publication of the study hoping it will be forgotten. Others question why the task force was comprised of County law enforcement staff or staff from other County agencies, but no civilians not connected to the government.

David Rocha of the Maryland ACLU confirmed there was just one conversation on Feb. 24 about this topic. “I challenged them about why there were no community

groups included on the task force studying body cameras.

Baltimore City had a task force that included very diverse points of view. They expressed their belief that Baltimore County’s police department enjoys a strong trust and transparency relationship with its citizens. That is a Pollyanna belief on their part, in my view, because while some County citizens may like and trust the Police, that cannot be said of many other citizens.”

Baltimore County NAACP President Anthony Fugett confirmed that the organization’s one inclusion in this conversation occurred on Feb. 24. “The one encounter around the topic was more about information sharing rather than soliciting our input.

Since that time there has been no follow-up by the County”, said Fugett.

“Under Maryland’s existing wiretap law,” said Kamenetz, “there was some concern whether our cameras could record audio without being in conflict of the state’s two-party consent rule. With this Bill, it clarifies that a police officer may utilize both video and audio in the course of official police duties. While there are still some details to be resolved as a result of late amendments to the bill, we are grateful

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summer

you,” said Cryor. “When I was young man I worked in the shipyards but I learning many things like getting up when I didn’t want to, following orders, and other things that make you a productive member of society.”

Cryor hopes to not just focus on the short term issue of summer jobs, but also long range solutions. “Right now, we have a moment to make some rather substantial improvements not just in services but in the ways we conceive solutions to problems, many of which are long term and systemic,” Cryor said. “In addition, we have the immediate need of providing summer jobs.”

Cryor is also staffing the OneBaltimore organization and figuring out where it fits in with the other services the city offers. “I don’t want to be duplicating services other organizations already provide. Right now I need to get a feel for what other organizations are doing,” Cryor said. “I’m not eager to run out and commit to a lot of things I can’t fulfill, nor do I want to sit in a room and answer to 50 or 60 people every week.”

The goal of the OneBaltimore program, Cryor said, is to prove Baltimore is more than the images of rioting and fires much of America witnessed over the past few weeks. “We hope to restore some confidence in the city of Baltimore,” Cryor said.

“We recognize there are some things to address but we remain a viable city. We have to pull together, we have to deliver on the things we say, and admit there are something we need to improve upon as community.” to our County delegation members, and particularly Del. Charles Sydnor for sponsoring this bill on our behalf.”

Baltimore County Police officers recently began using tasers equipped with cameras that automatically record all events from the moment the taser is removed from its case.

Clarifying her position, Sen. Delores Kelly stated, “The body camera will not lie. It can be the decisive element in putting an end to the “he said, she said” which usually accompanies an incident of suspected use of police deadly force. The body camera will be a silent witness to what really happened.”

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The funds raised from the annual gala are used to Ad Size: 7.28” xthe 8” economic outcomes invest in changing in the African-American community, Title: Coaster - rev 3 focusing on policy and programs, thus benefiting all citizens.

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May 23, 2015 - May 29, 2015, The Baltimore Afro-American The AFRO-American gave recognition to the members of the Baltimore Chapter of The Links for their program initiative, the GRASP (Graduation, Retention, and Support Program) which provides funds to support HBCU (Historically Black Colleges and Universities) students who are at risk of dropping out of school because they are unable to pay financial obligations of $1,000 or less.

A pre-reception was held for major donors and supporters

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before Jake Oliver, AFRO publisher, gave the welcoming remarks to the guests. Hon. Patricia C. Jessamy, Links president, indicated that since GRASP’s inception, the Chapter has contributed $10,000 and raised an additional $7,900 from Links, friends of Links, organizations and corporations.

The Fund has helped 10 students at Morgan with two more awards pending this semester. Six students have been assisted at Coppin, with four additional awards anticipated this semester. All students assisted the first semester have graduated. All others are on schedule to graduate.

Dr. Thelma T. Daley and Marsha Reeves Jews served as emcee.

The program was sponsored by BGE, an Exelon Company.

Debbie Brogg, Faith Thomas, Dr. Thelma T. Daley, Peaches and Winky Camphor

Betty Clark, Landa McLaurin, Nikita Hayesbert Ashley Serune, student, Patricia Roberts, Saretha Sessomes

Hon. Patricia C. Jessamy, president, Baltimore (MD) Links, Francine Stokes-McElveen, Dr. Charlene Cooper-Boston

Donna Howard, director, Development, Morgan State University with students Dion Thomas, Briana Butler, Satta Mustapher

Briana Butler, scholarship recipient, Virgie Williams, Elizabeth V. Bole

Wendell Sutton, Marsha Jews, “Keep it Moving” radio host

NAACP officers Hope Randall, Tessa Hill-Aston, president, Baltimore City Branch, Joyce N. Harrell, Kathy A. L. Robertson

F. Aileen Taylor and Judge Miriam Hutchins

Jake Oliver with Marsha Reeves Jews, left and Dr.Thelma T. Daley, mistress of ceremonies

Leah Warren, Morgan State senior, Larcell Pannell

Members of the National Coalition of Black Women, Baltimore Metropolitan Chapter with AFRO Publisher Jake Oliver.

Rosemary H.Atkinson and Sara H. Smalley

Morgan Alumni Association officers Gloria Wayman, Chubeli Arroyo, student, Janelle Silver, student, Cherlyn Mitchell, Carole Jeffries

Scholarship recipients Kendell Costley, Michael Travers, Natasha Newmois, Taylor Evans, Aunya Brown

The Annual Scholarship Luncheon sponsored by the Morgan State University Foundation was held, April 16, in the Tyler Ballroom of the Student Center on Morgan’s campus.

Morgan President David Wilson, in his remarks to the crowded room of scholarship donors, friends and student recipients, noted the success of former graduates of the University and cited Morgan’s ranking among the top 20 categories in the United States. “We are taking students where they are and taking them to the world’s stage where they will shine,” Dr. Wilson said.

The scholarship recipients were able, some for the first time, to meet the generous donors who provided the financial support needed for them to complete their academic journey and graduation.

Scholarship recipients Ahjahnae LaQuer, Noah Johnson, Joselyn Tabora

Scholarship recipients Jhenelle Anglin and Nico Cloyd

Howard Jessamy, Benjamin M. Phillips IV, AFRO president

Scholarship recipients Victoria Carson, Skye Malone, Whitney Niguel

Joyce Turnipseed, Carl W.Turnipseed, chair, Development Committee, Board of Directors; Joyce Brown, Alumni Director

Scholarship recipients Alexis Holmes, Verena Reece, Kiah Lucas (Tyler Scholar)

Scholarship recipients Ragime Young, Angela Njob, Joaab Ogunbiyr

Scholarship recipients Lynnee’ Tucker and Jeanette Wade; class members Nia Wikes and John Ruffin; Dr. Quentin Wilkes, 1963 class president

Morgan sponsors and Foundation officers are Reginald Thomas, Trena Taylor Brown, Anne Davis, Dr. Pamela Scott-Johnson, Cheryl Hitchcock, executive director

Scholarship recipients Cierra Carter, Dmitri Clemons, Dejah Miles, Michael Shiferant

Scholarship recipients Kyra Harvye, Natavia Brady, Yelvel Johnson II

Morgan alumni Roddie Smith, Vivian G. Salters, Gloria Frost Photos by Dr. A. Lois De Laine

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The Baltimore Afro-American, May 23, 2015 - May 29, 2015

Malcolm X would have been 90 years-old on May 19; with the recent events in Baltimore and across our country I wonder what our country would be like if Malcolm had lived. Over the years, I’ve read countless quotes attributed to Malcolm X and wonder whether or not Malcolm X was ahead of his time or right on time.

“Basically, radio hasn’t changed over the years. Despite all the technical improvements, it still boils down to a man or a woman and a microphone, playing music, sharing stories, talking about issues communicating with an audience” Casey Kasem It’s been said laughter is the best medicine and Tom Joyner morning show’s visit to Baltimore was right on time. More than 800 people showed up to meet and greet Tom Joyner, Sybil and Jay Anthony Brown at the Horseshoe Casino. Myra Owens Queen, Bryant Smith, Bob Morrison, Ronald Butler, Norma Jones, Shannon McRae, Rhonda Allmond, Michelle Colvin, Norma Belton, Eddie and Venus Daniels, Rosa Mason, Clacy Gilbert, Sandra McCotter, Gregory Miller, Shannon Wallace were the lucky winners to join the morning crew for lunch at Bertucci’s in Columbia. Radio personality LaDawnn Black and Tia Johnson assistant promotions director from 95.9 FM entertained the crowd as we waited for Tom Joyner and the crew to arrive. Tom Joyner’s warmth is genuine as he greeted me with a hug leaving no doubt, why he is the most popular radio host as he mingled with the guests extending greetings and posing for pictures . Baltimore women and hair stylists made a big impression on Tom including our Mayor when he said on the air “the women in Baltimore and their stylists keep their hair tight; maybe they can do something for me” Tom Joyner “Age is only a number, a cipher for the records. A man can’t retire his experience. He must use it.” Bernard Baruch Getting his start in Richmond, Virginia in 1973 on Radio Q94; Tim Watts of 95.9 has left the station after 42 years as an on air personality.

“It’s so hard to say good-bye to yesterday” Boyz II Men Tim’s love for music has been credited for creating special moments for his radio audience he called the 30 and over crew. He played music that would take us “back down memory lane.”

We would sing, dance, or party to his music. Tim’s music was the perfect background for a cookout or just hanging out. His extensive knowledge and relationship with the music industry enabled him to share inside information about our favorite artists, many he knew personally.

Tim the airways will never be the same without you but as Bobby Womack said, “always leave them wanting more.” PT Barnum got it from him (LOL) “The first question which the priest and the Levite asked was: ‘If I stop to help this man, what will happen to me?’ But...the good Samaritan reversed the question: ‘If I do not stop to help this man, what will happen to him?” Martin Luther King Jr. Proud parents Paul and Traceé Strum-Gilliam are beaming on son Vincent’s induction

into the Boy Scouts of America, Baltimore Area Council’s Order of the Arrow Troop #846 at Epworth United Methodist Chapel. Vincent, a student at St. Paul’s School for Boys was one of the originators of the Sandtown-Winchester community cleanup.

Philantropix’s Zach McDaniels, Marty Glaze, Sonjay DeCaires and sponsors Murphy Falcon Murphy, Wag, Greater Baltimore Urban League, UBER, Mission Tix, K&O Public Affairs, Airmail, Grey Goose, Miller and Coors once again hosted the ultimate Preakness After-Party at a secret location that was revealed to the guests “round midnight” Thursday.

Nicole Nicholson’s of NikNak transferred the old abandoned bank on East Baltimore Street into a magical wonderland. More than 400 people looking Preakness sharp dined on cuisine from Supano Steak while sipping specialty drinks. Among the special guests were author Wes and Dawn Moore, Mayor Stephanie Rawlings- Blake, Catalina Byrd, Rosalind Jones, Darnell Moses, Smittie Milan, Kia, John Lee, George Ray, Karenthia Barber and LaRian Finney.

It’s your birthday Jeanette Bynum, Dr. Donald Parker, and Bobby Chambliss.

“In the sweetness of friendship let there be laughter, and sharing of pleasures. For in the dew of little things the heart finds its morning and is refreshed.” Khalil Gibran The sudden death of Tim Sanders has left the golf community and the city of Baltimore in a state of shock. A longtime golf pro at Forest Park Tim was instrumental in introducing children and women to the world of golf.

“Tide and time wait for no man” Proverb Quote Tim was a gentleman and I was proud to call him my friend and golf mentor. On Saturday, my neighbor Russell Jolivet said “Val, Tim wants you to call him; I laughed and said I’ll call him later.

We can make our plans but the Lord determines our steps Proverbs 16:9 On Monday, Tim and Russell were at Kernan participating in a golf program he had established in the community when he died of a heart attack doing what he loved. I never made the phone call. A consummate golfer, Tim’s playing golf in heaven with his friends Calvin Peete and Charles Sifford. Tim, remember what you taught us “hit them straight.”

“When I do eventually drop, I pray to God that it’ll happen in one of three ways. Firstly, on stage or leaving the stage, then secondly in my sleep, and the third way? You’ll have to figure that out for yourself!” B. B. King Rest in Blues Paradise “In the End, we will remember not the words of our enemies, but the silence of our friends.”

Martin Luther King, Jr. Valerie and the Friday Night Bunch

COMMUNITY CONNECTION Two Baltimore Women Create and Launch Cosmetic Company

Pout Cosmetics recently debuted their line of cosmetics starting with lipstick, lip gloss, lip and eye pencils, and an excellent sugar lip scrub.

Pout Cosmetics is owned by Tammika Carter and Anisya Robinson, who have been formally educated in the field of cosmetology, and over the years have sought out and retained a wealth of knowledge in the beauty industry.

Anisya Robinson and Tammika Carter “We are extremely excited to officially launch Pout Cosmetics and offer women a sophisticated cosmetic line,” said the owners. “We are thrilled to apply everything we have learned over the years and provide a quality product to make women look and feel good.”

Pulling all of their knowledge and life experiences with makeup together, they have come up with a formula to provide a daily dose of all the vitamins and moisture to keep lips looking and feeling healthy. The lipsticks go on smooth and silky and are long lasting. The line of products come in a variety of shades ranging from nude to bold and bright hues, and an assortment of shine levels ranging from matte to pearl shine. Pout Cosmetics offers something to compliment every woman in every facet of life whether in the workplace, date night, or just lounging around; there’s something for everyone.

For information on purchasing products from Pout Cosmetics visit: poutcosmetic. storenvy.com

Omega Psi Phi Fraternity, Inc. -Pi Omega Chapter 6th Annual Prostate Cancer Screening Baltimore – May 12, 2015 – The men of the Omega Psi Phi Fraternity, Incorporated, Pi Omega Chapter, will host its 6th Annual Prostate Cancer Screening and Community Wide Health Festival providing basic health services and information to the Matthew Henson community. The event is a joint partnership with Chesapeake Urology and will be held Saturday, June 13, 2015 10:00am-3:00pm.

In 2015, more than 240,000 men will be diagnosed

with prostate cancer and more than 30,000 will die from the disease. African American men are 60% more likely than the rest of the population to develop prostate cancer.

This is one of the few health fairs in the community designed to provide prostate cancer screenings, along with basic health service and information to underserved individuals living in the area.

The health fair, is free, open to the public, and will take place at the Omega Fraternity Center, 2003 Presbury Street. Vendors and information booths will be onsite, as well as free screenings for Blood Pressure, Diabetes, Cholesterol, Body Mass Index, Bone Density, and HIV/AIDS to name a few. There will be activities for children, music, raffles and more! In addition, a FREE bag of groceries will be given to the first 100 men in the community who are screened for prostate cancer.

The health fair is a collaborative effort organized by the Men of Pi Omega Chapter, the Pi Omega Foundation, and Chesapeake Urology. Additional community partners include the Matthew Henson Neighborhood Association, MECU, Coppin Heights Community Development Corporation and the CHCDC Church Caucus to name a few.

Family Fun, Slamtastic and Interactive!!!

The Harlem Wizards are coming to Coppin State University on June 13 from 4pm to 9pm. The Harlem Wizard’s show brings oohs, aahs and serious laughter inspired by sky-high slams, hilarious humor, dynamic energy, fan participation, world class tricks and basketball wizardry. To get a free ticket send an email with your contact information to harlemwizardscoppinstate@gmail.com. Comp tickets are limited.

General admission for students is $12 and adults $17. Court side seats are $25. For more details see www.harlemwizards.com or call 443-650-2142.The Wizards are an institution, creating awe-inspiring fundraiser events for schools and nonprofits, last season alone playing in over 400 communities across the US each year, while raising over $2 million for schools, charities and nonprofits.

May 23, 2015 - May 29, 2015, The Baltimore Afro-American

ARTS & CULTURE

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Blues Enthusiasts Mourn Loss of B.B. King

By Shantella Y. Sherman Special to the AFRO

His gritty vocals and acoustic guitar waves were like a shaman’s ritualistic whisper, transfixing the very souls of those who heard it. Riley “B.B.” King lived the very blues music he composed and made the unheralded existence of millions of Delta-dwelling African Americans, fluid with every stroke. At 89, the man the world came to acknowledge as the King of the Blues, died peacefully in his sleep.

The Indianola, Mississippi-native battled the unrelenting segregation and racism of the Jim Crow South, working cotton fields alongside his maternal grandmother following abandonment by his parents. By age 12, King, a self-taught guitarist, began performing on local radio stations and in small nightclubs between the Delta and Memphis. In 1949, Sam Phillips with Sun Records began recording King, helping to launch his career beyond the Deep South.

King would go on to enjoy phenomenal success, earning 15 Grammy Awards and inductions into both the Rock and Roll and Blues Halls of Fame, and being honored with an honorary doctorate in music from Yale University. King’s music transcended musical genres, captivating and influencing three generations of rock and roll, jazz, and rap artists, including Mos Def, The Rolling Stones, Tina Turner, and Eric Clapton, who released a video statement through social media expressing his grief.

“I wanted to express my sadness and to say thank you to my dear friend B.B King. I want to thank him for all of the inspiration and encouragement he gave me over the years and the friendship we enjoyed,” Clapton said. “There’s not a lot left to say because this music is almost a thing of the past and there are not many who play it in the pure way the way that B.B. did.

He is a beacon for all of us who love this type of music and I thank him from the bottom of my heart. If you are not familiar with his work, go and find B.B King Live at the Regal – that’s where it all started for me.”

Others similarly, took to social media to express their condolences, including John Mayer, who is featured extensively on the King documentary, “The Life of Riley,” released just last Courtesy photo year.

Legendary Blues Guitarist B.B. King continues to live on in the commentary of “What a sad day, and a monumental loss. BB King’s life was in and of itself a time capsule, musicians of all ages and genres. and a yardstick for modern music history, most of which played out under his watch,” Mayer said. “[King] will forever inspire guitar players to argue (successfully) that less is more, that heart will always win over mind. Whenever your heart hurts and you don’t know if you have it in you right then and there to make sense of it, put on some B.B. King and feel what happens.”

King’s youngest daughter, Claudette, confirmed through her spokesperson Angela Moore, that King’s memorial service will take place May 23 in Las Vegas, followed by his funeral in Indianola. King’s attorney, Arthur Williams Jr., told the Associated Press that the musician wanted his funeral to be held in a church near the site where he picked cotton as a boy.

Dru Hill’s Nokio Speaks About Baltimore’s Recovery

By Gregory Dale AFRO News Editor Nokio has been all around the world in the two decades the 36-year-old has performed, written and recorded music as one-fourth of the R&B powerhouse group Dru Hill.

But while he’s seen it all, his hometown has stayed in his heart. That’s why he said he was devastated as he watched the Baltimore uprisings unfold following the death of Freddie Gray.

“I was out of town and to see parts of my old neighborhood on fire and to see the rioting and the protesting and everything that was going on, I couldn’t take it anymore,” he told the AFRO during a recent interview.

Nokio, born Tamir Ruffin, knew that he had to do his part to aid in his city’s recovery. So he and the group turned to their first instinct.

“At first we were like, we should do a concert, but then Nokio we decided to do a song,” he said. “From that conversation, I basically wrote a song in 15 minutes. The ball’s been rolling on that and it will be coming out soon.”

The singer explained that he’s also used this time to try to connect to the youth and speak at local schools.

“I want to be a voice to the kids who are here and I want to try to help them understand that

(Photos via Facebook)

Dru Hill member Nokio said he penned a song dedicated to Baltimore in 15 minutes.

you can get out of here,” he said. “That’s not me telling them to forget Baltimore, but I want to tell them that you can get out and learn something and bring it back.”

That method is something that Nokio and the other members of Dru Hill know all too well.

The group’s humble beginnings started right on the streets of Charm City, where they performed at local talent shows as teens. They finally got their big break in 1995 when they were signed to Universal Music Group’s Island Records. Subsequently, the group went on to have a string of successful hits such as “In My Bed,” Never Make a Promise,” and “How Deep is Your Love.”

While he’s resided in different places over the span of his career, Nokio said that homesickness drew him back. And now, with all of the recent drama that has unfolded in his city, he believes that this is perfect time to bring about change—especially in African Americans’ relationship with law enforcement.

“The whole issue of police brutality isn’t something new,” he said. “Within the laws of the land and the lessons that we are taught of right and wrong, what happened shouldn’t have happened.

Your first thought of seeing a police officer should be ‘you are here to protect me,’ not ‘you are here to throw me away.’ As Black men, we will sit there and think about if we did something just at the sight of the cops pulling up.”

The singer explained that he believes having “neighborhood cops” who are familiar with their assigned area and its citizens could be a move in the right direction.

But ultimately, he said he believes it all goes back to the kids. He said he hopes to build new schools in Baltimore at which students will learn about finances and managing money just as much as they learn about other subjects.

“One of the biggest things that happens with us as artists and Black people in general is that we don’t ever learn about money as a concept,” he said. “If you learn it and adopt certain practices, once you achieve your goal, you’re not going to be running out the gate to buy everything that you ever wanted in life.”

Continuing the conversation about the TUESDAY, MAY 26 • 7:30PM negative issues that affect PLEASE VISIT www.wbtickets.com AND the Black community is also ENTER THE CODE WWRXD94439 TO important, he said.

DOWNLOAD YOUR COMPLIMENTARY PASSES! “If we don’t continue to THIS FILM IS RATED PG-13 FOR INTENSE DISASTER ACTION AND MAYHEM THROUGHOUT, AND BRIEF STRONG LANGUAGE. Please note: Passes are limited and will be distributed on a first come, first served basis while supplies last. No phone calls, please. Limit one pass have the conversation about per person. Each pass admits two. Seating is not guaranteed. Arrive early. Theater is not responsible for overbooking. This screening will be monitored for unauthorized recording. By attending, you agree not to bring any audio or video recording device into the theater (audio the problem, it’s not going recording devices for credentialed press excepted) and consent to a physical search of your belongings and person. Any attempted use of recording devices will result in immediate removal from the theater, forfeiture, and may subject you to criminal and civil liability. Please allow to be a balance,” he said. additional time for heightened security. You can assist us by leaving all nonessential bags at home or in your vehicle.

“Everybody needs to know that this issue is not going SANANDREASMOVIE.COM #SANANDREAS away this time.”

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IN THEATERS MAY 29

B4

The Baltimore Afro-American, May 23, 2015 - May 29, 2015

AFRO Sports Desk Faceoff

SPORTS

Should Wizards Coach Randy Wittman Return Next Season? changing coaches wouldn’t work in terms of resetting the team. Wittman’s done the best job possible, he needs to be rewarded with some extra juice on his bench.

By Perry Green and Stephen D. Riley Special to AFRO The Washington Wizards showed grit and guts in their loss to the Atlanta Hawks in a six-game series. Washington put the East’s top-seeded Hawks on the ropes for much of the series, and had a chance at advancing if a few balls bounced their way. However, Washington went home early for the second straight year, and set themselves up for what could be another busy offseason.

Critics of the franchise argue that head coach Randy Wittman has done all he can do for the team, and has exhausted his stay in the District. Supporters suggest that Wittman is doing fine and more onus should be put on the players. One thing’s for sure: Washington cannot enter next season with the same roster and staff intact if it expects to advance. Outsized contracts virtually lock in much of the roster, so is a coaching change the only sensible step to take?

Perry Green and Stephen D. Riley of the AFRO Sports Desk debate the question.

Green: Wittman has done an admirable job for the Wizards over the last few seasons. He’s not a flashy coach, nor is he a highly acclaimed one, but he’s gotten the job done and helped the franchise reestablish itself after the Gilbert

Riley: Washington is still progressing in stages after being the laughingstock of the league just a few seasons ago. There’s still two things remaining for them to advance: a new coach and another big man. I agree the talent isn’t overwhelming outside of Beal and Wall, but even this team should be in the Eastern Conference Finals right now. The Hawks beat the Wizards four games to two, but those games showed Wittman’s inconsistent rotations and new ways that the Wizards continued to come up with to lose games and derail their chances. It appeared at times throughout the series that Wittman was just a step behind Atlanta’s more experienced Mike Budenholzer, and you wonder whether Wittman will ever be able to match up against some of the more advanced minds in the Association. Washington needed a coach to help them get their act together and clean up a faulty program.

Wittman has done that and now it’s time to bring in a coach to get them to the next level.

Green: Many coaches are only products of their rosters, and I think Wittman falls into this category. Washington’s unit is promising yet faulty, and I just can’t see how another coach could possibly squeeze more out of this group than what’s already there. Wizards fans were clamoring for names like Kris Humphries and Kevin Seraphin to receive more playing time once the postseason began, and those names aren’t exactly Hall of Famers. The second round appears to be the ceiling for this team as currently constructed. I’m a fan of loyalty and I think Wittman has done an outstanding job bringing this team from where it was not too long ago. I think you have to reward a coach who stayed in the trenches and dug the team out of a big hole. Wall and Beal have progressed well under his tutelage offensively—and that’s been widely noted—but their defensive prowess helped turned this team into a contender. Washington’s big men disappointed fans this season; Nene and Gortat were expected to play much better. Let’s see Wittman with a real impact big man before we can him.

Critics of the franchise argue that head coach Randy Wittman has done all he can do for the team, and has exhausted his stay in the District.

Arenas gun fiasco of a few years ago. Washington’s second round exits over the last two seasons haven’t been complete choke jobs by Wittman, but rather a wakeup call in revealing the team’s lack of talent. John Wall and Bradley Beal make up the team’s most marketable asset: its backcourt. But aside from sophomore forward Otto Porter and a rapidly-aging Paul Pierce, there isn’t much to get excited about when it comes to Washington’s roster. There isn’t a coach in the league who could put together a deep run with this collection of guys, so

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Riley: The talent up front is still questionable, but we’ve seen coaches do more with less, so I can’t totally buy in to that excuse for Wittman. This team and franchise is yearning desperately for a championship, and relying on a coach with limited playoff experience and no championship experience is a dicey proposition. Washington cannot expect to rely on Wittman if it wants to go to the promised land. At this point, we’ve seen what this roster can do and the only hope to push them over the top is landing an impact free agent. The more reputable the coach, the easier it’ll be for Washington to secure that last need. Wittman’s done a remarkable job, but we’ve reached an advanced stage in Washington’s development, and the Wizards need an advanced coach.

Baltimore Orioles Weekly - 6

Inconsistent O’s Still Swell at Bottom of AL East Standings

By Perry Green AFRO Sports Editor The Baltimore Orioles’ inconsistency continued as they lost three of five games from May 11 to May 16. The Orioles took two of three games from the Toronto Blue Jays in a home series at Camden Yards, but then lost back-to-back games to the Los Angeles Angels in Baltimore over the weekend. Baltimore currently has a 15-19 overall record, the worst in the American League East.

May 11-13: Orioles Win Series over Blue Jays Orioles starter Ubaldo Jimenez shined in Game One on May 11, striking out nine batters while surrendering just six hits and two earned runs over seven innings in a 5-2 victory. Relief pitcher Zach Britton eventually closed out the game for his seventh save of the season. On offense, Baltimore saw three players go the yard as Chris Davis, Manny Machado and Adam Jones each hit home runs.

The Orioles’ pitching wasn’t as strong in Game Two as Chris Tillman allowed nine hits and five earned runs in 6-2/3 innings. The O’s generated just five hits on offense while Toronto had a field day with 13 total hits, including two home runs to claim a 10-2 blowout win.

Starter Miguel Gonzalez was outstanding for Baltimore in Game Three, giving up just three hits and no earned runs over 7-2/3 innings in a 6-1 victory. Relief pitcher Darren O’Day picked up his first save of the season. Caleb Joseph hit a home run and Rey Navarro led Baltimore with two RBI.

afro.com • Your History • Your Community • Your News

May 23, 2015 - May 29, 2015, The Baltimore Afro-American

B5

The United States Navy refuses to acknowledge its Racist Past Open Letter to Navy Department Board of Decorations and Medals

By Marsha Joyner Special to the AFRO James E. Nierle President, Navy Department Board of Decorations and Medals Department of the Navy On May 4, I received your letter dated March 27 in which you state you are responding on behalf of Secretary of the Navy Mabus.

In that letter you state very clearly that the Navy will not recommend and upgrade from the Navy Cross to the Medal of Honor for Doris Miller.

Your letter further stated “The Navy can only recommend an upgrade, and then only if new and relevant material evidence was discovered that was not available at the time of the original decision. The Navy is not aware of any such evidence.”

That statement Mr. Nierle is patently false.

At the time of Doris Miller’s actions the Navy was totally segregated. How could the Navy not recognize that racism was the underlying theme? Or is it not new evidence? Based on the language in your letter, it is clear that The U.S. Navy, The Navy Department Board of Decorations and Medals, and you, as the currier of the Navy’s response to the thousands of requests for the Medal of Honor for Doris Miller, do not understand or fully recognize the depth and breadth of racism and discrimination. Or is it so well established that you are blind to it?

Quoting from your letter “This case has received more attention than any award in the Navy’s history. Beginning in 1942, and continuing to the present, countless requests have been made to award Doris Miller the Medal of Honor. As explained in the enclosed response to your (Marsha Joyner) 1997 request via Medal of Honor awardee, Senator Daniel K. Inouye (D. Hawaii), thorough official reviews of the case have consistently found no evidence that would meet the high standard for requesting upgrade to the Medal of Honor. If new evidence is presented in the future, the Navy will of course accord it all the attention it deserves.”

As you suggested I reread the 1997 letter that I sent via the late Senator Daniel Inouye, who was also denied a Medal of Honor because he was Asian. June 21, 2000, Inouye was presented the Medal of Honor by President Bill Clinton for his service during World War II, 55 years after he was severely injured.

In the biography of the world famous Admiral Hyman Rickover, “Rickover, Controversy and Genius, the authors Norman Polmar and Thomas B. Allen write, “Jewish midshipmen were ‘sent to Coventry’ for all of their four years at the Naval Academy. No midshipmen could speak to him; no one could acknowledge his existence.”

So, being “sent to Coventry,” for a soldier, meant isolation. By extension, the term came to mean being ostracized by one’s peers.

The sending of a midshipman to Coventry was unofficially tolerated at Annapolis, although the practice was not officially acknowledged in any way.

“In 1988, the Department of Defense tasked the Army and Navy with conducting reviews to determine if racial discrimination existed in the award policies during World War II and if the Navy Cross or Distinguished Service Cross recipient was denied the Medal of Honor due to racial discrimination.”

The Navy and Army studies acknowledged a society marked by racial discrimination during World War II. Yet, the Navy refused to examine the underlying racism in granting Medals as the Army did.

Based on all of the papers and articles that I have read, it is clear that President Franklin D. Roosevelt apparently considered giving the Medal of Honor to Miller, but the top Naval officials voiced their opposition.

In an April 9, 1942 letter to the chairman of the Committee on Naval Affairs (House of Representatives), Secretary of the Navy Frank Knox, a confirmed racist, an ardent defender of the Navy’s racial exclusion policy, lobbied against giving Miller the Congressional Medal of Honor.

During World War II, the Secretary of the Navy Frank Knox reported directly to the President.

Secretary Knox’s written policy toward Blacks, Filipinos, Chinese, Chamorros and other minorities was “The policy of not enlisting men of the colored races for any branch of the naval service but the messmen branch was adopted to meet the best interests of general ship efficiency.”

Carlos Bulosan wrote, “I feel like a criminal running away from a crime I did not commit. And this crime is that I am a Filipino in America.”

In addition to working for the notoriously anti-Japanese Hearst newspaper chain, Secretary Knox had publicly advocated in 1933 for the internment of all Japanese in Hawai’i “before the beginning of hostilities threatens.”

After the attack on Pearl Harbor, Knox requested he be allowed to go to Hawai’i to investigate personally. After spending 36 hours in Hawai’i, he stated at a Los Angeles press conference, “I think the most effective Fifth Column work of the entire war was done in Hawaii with the exception of Norway.” This was a lie!

In his Dec. 14 report to the President, he repeated his Fifth Column accusations and charged local Japanese with deliberately misleading defenders at Pearl Harbor. He continued to repeat these charges even after the FBI and Army Intelligence agreed that there had been no sabotage during or after the attack.

Unlike his White shipmates whose acts of bravery were acknowledged by being sent back to the states, Doris was fished out of the burning waters as the West Virginia went down and was transferred to the Indianapolis and spent the next 17 months at Pearl Harbor waiting on (White) Junior Officers. Finally in June of 1942 the Pittsburgh Courier called for Miller to be allowed to return to the states like White heroes. December, 1942 Doris Miller arrived in Waco, a hero.

Can the Navy really stand by its statement that they have examined the entire racist attitudes and actions underlining the awarding of the Medal to Doris Miller?

Secretary of The Navy Frank Knox had issued a denial of the Medal of Honor even though Senator James H. Mead, [Senate Reso S.2392} Rep. John D. Dingell (D.Mi.){H.R.6800} and superior officers had recommended that he be given the Medal of Honor in response to the public outcry.

The Secretary of the Navy (Knox) has already addressed a letter of commendation to the above man in recognition of the manner in which he performed his duty during the attack on Pearl Harbor. In view of the recommendations of the Pacific Fleet Board of Awards and the Commander in Chief, Pacific Fleet, the recognition already awarded is deemed sufficient and appropriate.”

Mr. Nierle, you wrote in statement of Mr. James E. Nierle, President, Navy Department Board of Decorations and Medals, Before the House committee on oversight and government reform On Military service records and awards 29 FEBRUARY 2012:

“Although the basic process for award recommendation and approval has not changed significantly since WWII . . . From World War II through the post-Vietnam era, award recommendations were processed and recorded as hard copy paper documents.

“Although the Navy continues to use a standard paper format for award recommendations and approvals, metadata pertaining to Navy awards is maintained in a web-based, searchable database that contains data for awards as far back as 1963. Our awards branch staffs also have ready access to various other awards records covering WWII and later, but none of these collections is exhaustive.”

That statement gives credence to the underlying issue of racism. Every communication I have received from your office reads the same regardless of the signature at the bottom of the page. In not one of the letters and statements to me or other Congress members is the mention of racism.

One would think by now you Mr. Nierle and the Navy Department would come to see that racism is real.

In 1984 Dr. Leroy Ramsey, a retired Hofstra University history professor, became angered because so few Blacks were included in televised celebrations marking the 40th anniversary of D-Day in Europe. Black and a World War II veteran himself, Ramsey decided to write a book on the Black military experience during the war. When he discovered that no Black had received the Medal of Honor in World Wars I and II, he abandoned the book and began a quest to redress what he believes is a gross oversight - getting the Medal of Honor awarded to one or more Black veterans of the two world wars.

After reading each of the 3,417 Medal of Honor citations, Ramsey checked the records of Black servicemen who had been awarded other high military honors. And that’s how he discovered Doris Miller.

“I just don’t think that this can be a situation where no Blacks performed with valor to the point that they didn’t get the Medal of Honor,” says Ramsey. “I saw a hell of a lot of Congressional Medals of Honor (awarded) for a whole lot less than ... Dorie Miller did.”

Since then, Ramsey has become the seaman’s unofficial biographer. It was he who revived interest in a Medal of Honor for Doris Miller by hounding members of Congress in person and through the mail from his Albany, N.Y., home. In October 1987, the late Rep. Mickey Leland, Texas 18th District and chair of the Congressional Black Caucus, co-sponsored a bill to waive the medal’s statute of limitations for Doris Miller. The bill stalled in committee, but in 1988 the Department of Defense began researching the sailor’s actions at Pearl Harbor. ‘’Because Miller was Black, this is what makes his heroism so outstanding,’’ Ramsey says. ‘’The first thing that the Congressional Medal of Honor asks is (that) you have to go beyond the call of duty. That phrase cannot be lost when it comes to Dorie Miller. ‘’Here was a man who did what he was not allowed to do. Just manning that machine gun was going beyond the call of duty right there.’’

Inasmuch as your letter states “The President Franklin Roosevelt was empowered to award the Medal of Honor had he felt it was justified.” And that the Navy can only recommend an upgrade. Since the U.S. Navy refuses to acknowledge the racism in awarding the Medal of Honor, we find it necessary to go directly to the President of the United States.

Sincerely MarshaRose Joyner President Emeritus, Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. Coalition-Hawai’i mrjoy@hawaii.rr.com 808-741-4612

Your favorite graduate might be in our June 6 special section including commencement photos from Bowie, Coppin, Howard, Morgan, UDC and UMES. Howard University 2015 graduates

B6 The Baltimore Afro-American, May 23, 2015 - May 29, 2015

Baltimore

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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.

TYPESET: Wed May 20 13:51:28 2015 LEGALEDT NOTICES CITY OF BALTIMORE DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION PUBLIC NOTICE ESTABLISHMENT OF GRADES The Chief of Engineering and Construction Division, designee of the Director of the Baltimore City Department of Transportation will be in his office, Room 720, Charles Benton, Jr. Building, 417 East Fayette Street, Baltimore, Maryland 21202 on May 29, 2015, from 10:00am until 12:00 noon for the purpose of hearing and considering protest and explain matters in connection with establishing the grade of the following new street for Developer?s Agreement #1409 (1300 Thames Street). This includes: Point Street (formerly Block Street) from station 0+00 Wills Street to station 5+00 S Caroline Street.

Respectfully, WILLIAM JOHNSON, DIRECTOR DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION

NOTICE TO POTENTIAL BIDDERS BALTIMORE CITY DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION PROJECTS ANTICIPATED TO BE BID FOR SMALL BUSINESSES Pursuant to 23 CFR 635.110, Subpart A (regarding the timeliness of advertisement for federal-aid construction projects relative to the City’s contractor prequalification process), the City’s Department of Transportation, hereby notifies interested parties of the following projects which may be advertised for construction during the period from July 2015 to December 2015, for Small Businesses.

A firm must be a small business as defined by the U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA) by applying current SBA business size standards found in 13 CFR Part 121 that are applicable to the type of work the firm seeks to perform in the solicitation.

SAMPLE

TYPESET: Wed Aug 06 14:33:16 EDT 2014

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.

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

INSERTION DATE:_________________

BALTIMORE AFRO-AMERICAN NEWSPAPER Legal Advertising Rates Effective October 1, 2008 PROBATE DIVISION (Estates) 202-332-0080 PROBATE NOTICES

Additionally, contractors, who are interested in bidding on any of the projects below, must be prequalified by the Baltimore City Office of Boards and Commission. Additionally, only bidders certified by the Maryland Department of Transportation as a SBE, or a certified member of the National Minority Supplier Development Council (NMSDC) at the time of bid opening will be considered in the award process.

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

Potential bidders are advised that the prequalification process may take up to 90 days to complete. For further information, please contact the Office of Boards and Commission at 410-396-6883 or Michael.Augins@baltimorecity.gov or 410-396-6883.

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

PROJECT

PREQUALIFICATION CATEGORIES

Street Resurfacing – A02602 – BituVarious Sectors minous Concrete Paving D02620 – Curbs, Gutters, Sidewalks NAICS 237310, 238140, 238210, Conduit System Repairs at Various Locations Citywide (JOC)

BO2553 Duct Line Construction NAICS 237310, 238140, 238210,

COST RANGE $2,000,000 $3,000,000

TYPESET: Wed May 20 13:21:56 EDT 2015 BALTIMORE CITY DEPARTMENT OF HOUSING AND COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT REQUEST FOR PROPOSAL EVALUATION OF VACANTS TO VALUE PROGRAM RFP NUMBER: B-2015-1

Questions regarding the RFP should be directed in writing to the individual below, and must include the reference: DHCD-RFP Number B-2015-1.

Stephen Janes Assistant Commissioner, DHCD Baltimore, MD 21202 410-396-4051 steve.janes@baltimorecity.gov

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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 May 20 13:22:21 EDTLEGAL 2015 NOTICES HOUSING AUTHORITY OF BALTIMORE CITY INVITATION FOR BIDS

The Mayor and City Council of Baltimore (”MCC”), acting through the PUR-772-15 Department of Housing and Community Development (”DHCD”), seeks qualified consultants to assess its Vacants to Value (V2V) blight elimination SURPLUS USED APPLIANCES program and to provide recommendations on ways to enhance the Program’s effectiveness and efficiency. Therefore, The Baltimore City Department of Housing and Community Development (”DHCD”) will issue a The Housing Authority of Baltimore City (”HABC”) desires to sell surplus Request for Proposals (”RFP”) for interested and qualified vendors to used appliances consisting of appliances such as refrigerators, electric ranges and gas ranges. All appliances are used and are sold ”as is,” with no submit proposals to provide these professional services. warranties. This IFB, plus the resulting agreement(s), shall be consistent DHCD strongly encourages and affirmatively promotes of the use of Minor- with, all applicable HABC policies. ity Business Enterprise (”MBE’s”) and Women-owned businesses (”WBEs”) in all Baltimore City contracts. Should M/WBE participation be BIDS WILL BE DUE no later than 2:00 p.m. Eastern Time on Friday, June established, all proposal responses relating to this RFP will be required to 12, 2015. provide the applicable minimum goals that are mandatory as the prime The IFB may be obtained on or after Monday, June 1, 2015, at the following contractor. location: PLEASE NOTE THAT BIDS WILL BE DUE no later than 2:00 p.m. Eastern Housing Authority of Baltimore City Time on Friday, June 26, 2015.

Division of Fiscal Operations, Purchasing Department 417 E. Fayette Street, Room 414 A non-mandatory pre-bid meeting will be held on Friday May 29, 2015 at Baltimore, Maryland 21202 10:00 a.m., at the Charles L. Benton Building, 417 E. Fayette Street, Room Attention: John Airey, Chief of Contracting Services 416, Baltimore, Maryland, 21202.

Tel: (410) 396-3261 Fax: (410) 962-1586 The RFP may be obtained on or after Friday, May 22, 2015, at the following Questions regarding the IFB should be directed in writing to the address and location: TYPESET: 13:22:45 EDT 2015 individual indicated above,Wed and May must20 include.

DHCD/HABC Fiscal Operations 417 E. Fayette Street, Room 414 Baltimore, Maryland 21202 Attention: Steve Suit, Director of Procurement 443-984-1808 E-mail- steve.suit@habc.org

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

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

$2,000,000.00 to $3,000,000

$180.00 per 3 weeks

City of Baltimore Department of Finance Bureau of Purchases Sealed proposals addressed to the Board of Estimates of Baltimore will be received until, but not later than 11:00a.m. local time on the following date(s) for the stated requirements: May 27, 2015 *CRANE INSPECTION AND CODE DEFICIENCY REPAIR B50004083 June 3, 2015 *REMOTE VIDEO SURVEILLANCE TRAILER B50004087 THE ENTIRE SOLICITATION DOCUMENT CAN BE VIEWED AND DOWN LOADED BY VISITING THE CITY’S WEB SITE: www.baltimorecitibuy.org

To advertise in the AFRO call 410-554-8200

TYPESET: Wed May 13 12:08:44 IN THE CIRCUIT COURT FOR BALTIMORE CITY Case No.: 24D14003283 Circuit Court for Baltimore City Kenneth L. Brown 114 N. Milton Avenue Baltimore, MD 21224 Plaintiff vs Gretchen SykesBrown 1610 West Little Creek Road Apartment 202 Norfolk, Virginia 23505 Defendant NOTICE (DOM REL 72) The above Plaintiff has filed a petition/complaint/ motion, entitled: Complaint Absolute Divorce in which he/she is seeking Absolute Divorce. Notice is hereby issued by the Circuit Court of Baltimore City, that the relief sought in the aforementioned petition/complaint/ motion may be granted, unless cause be shown to the contrary. Defendant is to file a response to the petition/complaint/ motion on or before June 7, 2015. Failure to file the response within the time allowed may result in a judgment to default or the granting of the relief sought, provided a copy of this Notice be:0 published in some newspaper published in this county/city, once in each of three ( 3 )successive weeks on or before May 7, 2015.

Lavinia G. Alexander Clerk 5/08, 5/15 & 5/22/15

May 23, 2015 - May 29, 2015, The Baltimore Afro-American

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Author’s Corner Title: Journey to the Other Side …“Overcoming Adversity” Author: Shelley Spence Release Date: May 30 Michele “Shelley” Spence is a business owner, an ordained elder and author. She is currently earning a psychology degree. She is feisty but transparent, with a down-to-earth approach in her mentoring. Her goal is to help hurting women who are seeking a way out of emotional and psychological issues.

She is a survivor and understands the plight of one who is searching for inner peace and real joy. She plans to pass the baton on by teaching others the value of God’s love, true forgiveness and selfawareness. In addition, she wants to show people ways to inner peace by helping them to come to terms with what haunts and taunts their self-image daily. She is the wife of Chef Donald Spence, a mother and grandmother, who absolutely LOVES her family. Her favorite quote is “To thine own self be true.”

What was the impetus for writing this book?

The driving force of this book was having a mental and

emotional breakdown and desperately needing to break through years of pain.

What’s the overall theme?

Facing your inner demons and finding ways to break free from the bondage that confines you to darkness; also to recognize your true self and find peace and fulfillment in every aspect of your life.

What surprised you about the development of the book?

The thing that surprised me the most was that the more I wrote about my life’s journey the more I encountered women who needed to hear my story of healing.

For what audience is your book written?

Shelley Spence The audience for this book is not limited to gender, age, religion, the love of God. marital status, or color; it is for those who need What did you learn during the writing process? to find peace within I learned that writing is not just healing for the reader but and/or those who just need a reminder that they can make it it is most of all healing for the writer. through the storms of life.

Any advice for aspiring writers?

What one thing do you most want the reader to learn?

My advice for aspiring writers is to write your truth that How to love themselves and how to find freedom through others may benefit from it.

Michelle Obama: A Life

By Peter Slevin Knopf Hardcover, $27.95 448 pages, Illustrated ISBN: 978-0-307-95882-2 Book Review by Kam Williams “Here is the first comprehensive account of the life and times of Michelle Obama, a woman of achievement and purpose—and the most unlikely First Lady in modern American history... The journey winds from the intricacies of her upbringing as the highly focused daughter of a gregarious water-plant worker afflicted with MS to the tribulations she faces at Princeton University and Harvard Law School during the racially charged 1980s.

And then returning to Chicago where she… embarks on a search for meaningful work that takes her back to the community… even as she struggles to find balance as a mother and a professional—while married to a man who wants to be president.

[The book] deftly explores the drama of Barack’s historic campaigns and the harsh glare faced by Michelle in a role both relentlessly public and not entirely of her choosing.”

-- Excerpted from the Bookjacket

Courtesy of the White House

Michelle Obama has been catching a lot of flak again, this time for her remarks during a recent commencement address at Tuskegee University. The First Lady has been under the gun ever since the 2008 presidential campaign, when her detractors playing “gotcha politics” quoted something she said out of context to suggest that she hates the United States.

But Michelle was making more complicated points than the simplistic sound bites she’s

Classified - Career Corner TYPESET: Wed May 20 16:07:53 EDT 2015

Continued from B6

ANNE ARUNDEL COUNTY CAREER OPPORTUNITIES Adolescent & Family Co-occurring Therapist Assistant County Attorney Business Manager (Utility Operations Administrator) Detention Officer Energy Manager Equipment Operator II Facilities Maintenance Mechanic I/II Laboratory Technician Laundry Supervisor, Detention Center Maintenance Worker II Strategic Planner, Management Assistant II Mason Office Support Assistant I Office Support Assistant II Office Support Specialist Personnel Analyst I, II & III Senior Equipment Operator Solid Waste Equipment Maintenance Supervisor Traffic Signal Technician Utilities Mechanical Maintenance Team Manager Utility Systems Technician I Zoning Inspector Visit our website at www.aacounty.org for additional information and to apply on-line. You may use the Internet at any Anne Arundel County library, or visit our office at 2660 Riva Road in Annapolis. Deadlines to apply posted on website.

AEO/DF/SFE

been reduced to. For that reason, it is appropriate that her biography opens with an in-depth analysis of a very emotional speech she delivered to Anacostia High’s graduating class of 2010.

She pointed out the irony in the fact that this public school located in a neighborhood marked by poverty, violence and inequality was also just a stone’s throw away from the U.S. Capitol. She went on make parallels between that ghetto and the one where she was raised on the South Side of Chicago.

Then, Michelle started to cry while recalling the sacrifices on the part of her parents which enabled both her and brother to attend Princeton. And when she finished, it was apparent that her salient message about the power of perseverance had resonated with all in attendance.

In Michelle Obama: A Life, author Peter Slevin paints an unapologetically rosy picture of the First Lady, opting to play down or entirely avoid any controversial subjects. It’s important to note that she never cooperated with the project, although he reportedly did get to interview a number of folks close to her.

A titanic, 400+ page tome, complete with 16 pages of color pictures, for fans who prefer to read an opus about the First Lady that accentuates the positive.

To order a copy of Michelle Obama: A Life, visit: http://www.amazon.com/exec/obidos/ ASIN/0307958825/ref%3dnosim/thslfofire-20

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The Baltimore Afro-American, May 23, 2015 - May 29, 2015

Vivica A. Fox, Tyson Beckford and Robert Ri’chard

Is Vivica Really Dating the Handsome Hunk Who Plays Her Son in the Movie?

VAF: [Laughs] We’re having fun, but let me set the record straight. No, it’s not true. It was my first time working with him. And our scenes were so intense that everybody was like, “Wow! They have a major connection with each other.” But it was literally mutual respect as actors. There’s no romance going on.

RR: Yet. I wonder how the tabloids are predicting the future.

VAF: [Laughs]

The “Chocolate City” Interview with Kam Williams Vivica A. Fox, Tyson Beckford and Robert Ri’chard co-star in Chocolate City which is basically a remake of Magic Mike.

Director Jean-Claude La Marre explains that he felt an African-American variation on the male stripper theme was in order, given the absence of black faces in the original.

This version of the tale revolves around a cash-strapped college kid (Richard) who hides from his mother (Fox) the fact that he’s moonlighting as an exotic dancer at a neighborhood nightclub on ladies’ night. The three recently spoke to me via a conference call about the film, and also about the rumors circulating in the tabloids of a steamy set romance between Vivica and Robert.

KW: Editor/Legist Patricia Turnier for Vivica: I am a big fan and have followed your career since the late Eighties. I probably watched Two Can Play That Game, one of my favorite romantic-comedies, over 40 times. Is there any chance you’ll make another sequel of this movie?

VAF: We actually made one sequel, called Three Can Play That Game. I did co-produce the film, but it didn’t do as well, because they didn’t allow me to have my original cast back. Lord, would I love to get that original cast back together, and do the real sequel that should’ve been done, because it’s a cult classic, and it’s been done by other nationalities. So, I’d love to do a true sequel. Absolutely!

KW: Patricia would also like to know whether you might like to direct in the future.

VAF: Ooh! Directing is a lot of responsibility. In the future, yes, but I probably wouldn’t get into that for another five years or so.

Wikimedia Commons

Robert Ri’chard, Vivica A. Fox and Tyson Beckford star in “Chocolate City.”

Kam Williams: Hey, thanks for the interview.

Robert Ri’chard: Hey Vivica, how are you?

Vivica Fox: I’m fine darling. How are you?

KW: Patricia has a question for Tyson. She says. You have roots in Panama, and I am taking this occasion to say that I went there last year for almost a month. I was very moved by the warmth of the people there. Not one person was impatient towards me when I looked for words in my French-Spanish dictionnary to communicate with them. Given your diverse background, would you be open to play in a foreign film in the future?

TB: Yeah, I would definitely love to do that.

Panama is like one of my homes. I have cousins down there that I’d like to bond with. So, I‘d love to make a movie there.

KW: What advice do you have for guys who want to follow into your footstep in modeling and for those who want to be involved in modeling?

TB: That’s tough to answer, because you have to be cut from a certain type of cloth. You have to have be a certain height, build and a have a certain look.

You can’t just wake up and decide to model one day. It’s hard to explain, but getting into the business is all about the features.

RR: When are you going to take me out for a glass of champagne, so I can buy you some chocolate?

VAF: [Laughs] You’re starting way too early, Robert. What, are you in need of a mimosa already? You’re too much! Too much!

Tyson Beckford: [Joins call] Hey, what’s happening everybody?

VAF: Hey, Tyson.

RR: I heard you’re in Vegas.

TB: No, I was in Los Angeles a few hours ago. But now I’m in New York. And I’ll be back in Vegas at this time tomorrow.

RR: I wanna dance tomorrow.

TB: You keep sayng that, but you’ve got to rehearse. You can’t just show up and get onstage.

We’ll have to work you out. You’re rusty.

RR: I want to come to a rehearsal tomorrow.

TB: We don’t have one scheduled. I’ll have to bring you in and rehearse you real quick, if I have time for it.

KW: Let me start off the interview with a question from children’s book author Irene Smalls.

She asks: What interested each of you in Chocolate City?

TB:I’ll answer first, since I was the first to sign on. What interested me was the script.

I loved how the characters showed their emotions. It made me feel for Robert’s character [Michael], because I’ve been through that as a college student trying to make my way through life. And I did the whole topless waiter thing in a male revue before, so I knew I could connect with it. In addition, I found the idea of Jean-Claude [director Jean-Claude La Marre] building an entire cast around me kind of intriguing. I was eager to see what he would come up with. So, that’s why I jumped in.

VAF: I’ll be very honest with you, Kam. I had worked with Jean-Claude before and, when I heard that he was doing this, I went to see Magic Mike. And I went, “Wow! How crazy is it that they don’t have any African-Americans in this?” I felt that whoever makes this film AfricanAmerican will win. Jean-Claude let me know he wanted me to play the mom and, when he told me about the cast, I said, “I’m so totally in for this.” I’ve seen it, and it’s awesome. It’s a feelgood, girl’s night out film that everybody will enjoy.

KW: And why’d you do the film, Robert?

RR: Because I had a crush on Vivica.

VAF: [LOL] TB: You see, that’s how rumors get started, Robert!

VAF: Exactly!

RR: The first time I ever modeled, I walked the runway with Tyson. And he let me walk in front of him. He was the man! I was like, “This is my dude!” So, when I was approached about working with him for a whole movie, I didn’t hesitate for a second. I just said, “Count me in.”

KW: Is there any truth to the rumor that you two are an item since making this movie?

VAF: Yes, Robert Ri’chard is the love of my life!

RR: The rumor’s not big enough.

KW: “Realtor to the Stars” Jimmy Bayan says: Vivica, when you’re really feeling naughty, and you just want to let your diet go off the rails, what’s your guiltiest pleasure? Is there a place you specifically go in LA to get some really “bad” food? The type that makes you say, “Boy, I’m gonna have to hit the gym tomorrow.”

TB and RR: [LOL] VAF: Do you hear them giggling in the background? I hear you. They’re so bad! Can you imagine having to deal with this all day? Where do I go? Two places: Casa Vega, because I love some good ole Mexican food, and California Pizza Kitchen, because I also love pizza. Those are my guilty pleasures, and not something else that they’re snickering about.

TB and RR: [Laugh some more] KW: Thanks again for the time, everyone, and best of luck with the film.

VAF: Alright, thank you, Kam TB: Take care.

RR:: Thanks, Kam. To see a trailer for Chocolate City, visit: https://www.youtube.com/ watch?v=42HA58cBHAM