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March 29, 2014 - March 29, 2014, The Afro-American
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Volume 122 No. 34
MARCH 29, 2014 - APRIL 4, 2014
Affordable Care Act Deadline Approaches By Zenitha Prince Special to the AFRO The clock is ticking down toward the March 31 deadline for open enrollment in new insurance plans that are the centerpiece of the Affordable Care Act, creating an urgency among U.S. consumers, businesses and government officials. This month has seen a surge in enrollment—more than 1 million people visited HealthCare.gov on March 24—and an even greater groundswell of demand
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is expected as March 31 approaches, which could put added pressure on the online marketplaces. Obama administration officials announced this week that extra time would be given to Americans who try to sign up but encounter problems or those who have special or complicated cases, according to various news sources. The increased demand could be a response to the revved up outreach efforts on the part of state agencies and the Obama administration to sign up the uninsured by March 31. “We’re going to be working hard right up to the deadline to ensure that that information is getting to the people who need it and that more Americans are enrolling,” said White House press secretary Jay Carney in a press briefing on March 19. The administration has used multiple approaches— radio and television spots and
2014 Black Caucus Agenda
Important Votes This Week as Session Nears End By Sean Yoes Special to the AFRO
interviews, social media and even the president’s recent appearance on a Funny or Die comedic skit –to spread the word, said White House spokesman Shin Inouye in an e-mailed statement to the AFRO. In Maryland, health
Several bills important to many in the state’s communities of color will be voted on this week, while legislators continue to grapple over others as the 2014 Maryland General Assembly nears an end. One of the measures is not actually a part of the state’s Legislative Black Caucus’ official agenda. The legislation would help some of Maryland’s Methodist churches control their assets and even maintain their independence. HB0840 would repeal provisions of current state law which, mandate all assets owned by any Methodist Church to be held in trust and under the general authority of the United Methodist Church even if the local denomination decides to break from the larger church body. The law actually appropriates Methodist doctrine from a text called, The
Book of Discipline. “Back in the 1950’s (1953 specifically) the state of Maryland unlike most states adopted a law…which said any land held by a church affiliated with the United Methodist Church whether or not… the United Methodist Church is the owner or beneficiary of the property, the property is held for their benefit,” said Prince George’s County Delegate Aisha Braveboy, chair of the Legislative Black Caucus. Braveboy, who is also a candidate for Maryland Attorney General, claims several older Black churches, some of which were built by slaves and former slaves were unknowingly affected by the law even after they decided to break away from the United Methodist Church. “The question really is for us constitutionally, does it make sense and should the state of Maryland be in the business of adopting language out of religious documents Continued on A5
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Rev. Wanda Duckett Presents
Sacred Slam Poetry a Tool for Worship Jonathan Hunter AFRO Staff Writer As the basis of her doctoral dissertation for Wesley Theological Seminary, the Rev. Wanda Bynum Duckett explored how spoken word poetry can be used as a component of worship. Her work on her doctorate’s degree in urban ministry complete, at 1 p.m. March 22, Rev. Duckett presented her findings to the congregation of Mt. Zion United Methodist Church, the church she pastors. She detailed her journey in finding her voice as a poet, and then related it to the theological framework of sacred slam. Rev. Duckett explained that spoken word
is intended for onstage performance, but believes it can be taken further. “What I am proposing with sacred slam is moving from the performance arena to the worship arena, so it’s no longer just entertainment, but also adoration, worship, and literature,” Rev. Duckett said. “It is strongly tied to storytelling, modern poetry, postmodern poetry, monologue theatre, and jazz. It’s kind of this eclectic morph thing that ends up in spoken word poetry.” “Spoken word deals with issues. Sometimes issues we don’t want to deal with in the context of worship. Spoken word handles those things poetically,” said Rev. Duckett. It’s a powerful and high-energy form
Courtesy Photo
Rev. Duckett shares her research with the community.
Cheatham’s Campaign Slammed By Posters
Continued on A5
Black Participation in Baseball Declining Negro Leagues Museum hopes to help reverse trend
By Blair Adams AFRO Staff Writer Marvin “Doc” Cheatham stared in disbelief at the posters he held in his hands. “We have taken down close to 80 posters,” Cheatham told the AFRO. “There were blue posters posted on top of my posters that read: Do Not Vote for Marvin ‘Doc’ CHEAT HAM.” On March 18, Cheatham noticed his flyers – strategically placed throughout west Baltimore – were replaced with literature for Belinda Conaway – who is vying for the Baltimore City Register of Wills seat. Cheatham said the culprit, who allegedly reposted flyers and issued defamatory posters about him, used a picture of him – found on his website – accompanied with an insult that read: “He stole from the NAACP, and he will
of expression. It’s a way of getting stuff out.” She mentioned that many spoken word poetry demonstrations took place in response to the Trayvon Martin and George Zimmerman verdict. Spoken word tends to come from a place of experiences, often derived from an urban setting. Spoken word is traditionally viewed as appealing to a younger crowd, but according to Rev. Duckett, it has the ability to reach anyone, regardless of age. Spoken word, she shared, consists of elements of Black preaching, including spiritual pharmacology, poetic recitation, imaginative insight, and social transformation.
By Roberto Alejandro Special to the AFRO At a time when Black players make up over 50 percent of the NFL and NBA, the game Jackie Robinson desegregated almost 67 years ago languishes far behind. If the trend continues, African Americans will make up less
than 10 percent of major league baseball players when the gates open for the 2014 season on March 31st. According to The Institute for Diversity and Ethics in Sport, a University of Central Florida research institute that releases diversity report cards on major American sport Continued on A5
Courtesy photo
Marvin “Doc” Cheatham holds the political posters that were placed by unknown culprits. STEAL from you.” The community activist said this statement is categorically untrue. Cheatham, who has served as president of The Southern Christian Leadership Conference, the Baltimore
Branch of the NAACP, and The National Action Network said, “As much as I’ve done for this community, why would anyone want to attack me.” Cheatham, a democrat, Continued on A5
Jackie Robinson was the first African American to play in Major League Baseball.
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The Afro-American, March 29, 2014 - April 4, 2014
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NATION & WORLD absolved the school of more than $35 million in debt. The newspaper indicated that the city could potentially sell or lease portions of the property to other groups, including two local churches, while still allowing Morris Brown space to operate. However, the Journal-Constitution reported that the school may have changed its mind, after an open records request revealed that Morris Brown officials contacted Atlanta Mayor Kasim Reed in early March to gauge the city’s interest in renewing talks on a deal. The school sits near an area targeted for revitalization, including a planned new stadium for the Atlanta Falcons. “Let me be very clear in my thinking about Morris Brown. There’s getting ready to be a $1.2 billion investment on that corridor,” Reed told the Journal-Constitution. “It makes sense for the city to control a strategic asset to be developed with the strength of the community in mind.” Morris Brown professor Makisha Funderburke is among the handful of educators who remain, and told “Marketplace” that she teaches without pay to help the college stay alive. “I just think Morris Brown should be given a chance,” she said.
Atlanta’s Morris Brown College Down to 35 Students
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Television judge Joe Brown was arrested and charged with five counts of contempt of court in Tennessee on March 25. According to the Associated Press, officials said the “Judge Joe Brown Show” star was jailed for five days after causing an outrage during a hearing in a Shelby County courtroom. Chief Magistrate Judge Dan Judge Joe Brown Michael said Brown appeared to be representing a client who was accused of not paying child support. He added that Brown caused a commotion by repeatedly yelling and challenging the juvenile court magistrate’s authority. Brown, 66, appeared on the “Judge Joe Brown” show for 15 seasons, until its cancellation in March 2013.
With a mountain of debt and less than three dozen remaining students, Morris Brown College in Atlanta may be reconsidering its refusal last year to sell its 37-acre campus to the city, according to media reports. The Atlanta Journal-Constitution reported in February that the school sought a bankruptcy court’s approval to retain a real estate broker and pursue the sale of its campus. It was unclear how that sale would affect the college’s handful of remaining students and its continued operation. The historically Black institution was founded in 1881, but was crippled in 2003 when it lost its accreditation after an investigation revealed two top officials embezzled millions in student financial aid and redirected it to other purposes. Attendance plummeted as thousands of students sought an education elsewhere; according to a recent profile by American Public Media’s “Marketplace,” the school currently boasts just 35 students attending classes at a campus which is largely boarded up. The Journal-Constitution reported the school rebuffed a $9.7 million offer by the city last year that would have
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The Afro-American, March 29, 2014 - March 29, 2014
March 29, 2014 - April 4, 2014, The Afro-American
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HBCU Coalition Lawsuit
Mediation Phase Begins By Sean Yoes Special to the AFRO On October 7, 2013 United States District Court Judge Catherine C. Blake delivered an unambiguous opinion concerning Maryland’s historically Black colleges and universities; for decades, the state had violated the U.S. Constitution for operating a system of higher education still rooted in segregation. Soon after her ruling Blake “urged” the two sides – the state (led by the office of the attorney general) and The Coalition, which represents the state’s HBCU – to begin mediation to remedy the segregative effects of duplication of HBCU programs by traditionally White institutions (TWI). According to observers of the case the mediation process is underway although it is difficult to discern what stage it has
progressed to. Blake appointed U.S. District Court Judge Paul W. Grimm as mediator. Grimm facilitated the pre-trial negotiations in the HBCU duplication lawsuit when he was Chief Magistrate Judge. He was appointed to his current post on the District Court by President Obama December 10, 2012. Grimm is also an adjunct professor of law at both the University of Maryland and the University of Baltimore. “She (Blake) offered a framework for the remedy but she did not impose a remedy ruling. Instead, she said to the parties that they should…come together and attempt to negotiate a remedy that would fix the Constitutional violation,” said Pace McConkie, former assistant attorney general of Maryland and director of Morgan State University’s Robert M. Bell Center for Civil Rights in Education. The veteran civil rights
attorney has been closely monitoring the HBCU duplication lawsuit since it began in 2006. McConkie says there are a couple of possible outcomes as a result of the negotiation process. “Through these negotiations…the state and The Coalition (could) actually agree on a remedial proposal. They would then go back before Judge Catherine C. Blake and say this is the remedy that we have agreed upon, they would still have to get that approved by the court,” McConkie explained. “The other option is that they don’t reach an agreement through negotiations…then she will entertain competing proposals from both sides. The Coalition will present its remedial proposal…and the state will propose its remedial proposal and the judge may have a hearing on it. And then the court will make
a ruling on what the remedy should be…She has retained jurisdiction over the case so that she can do exactly that,” he added. McConkie cautioned those who have interpreted Judge Blake’s call for mediation between the two parties as some sort of a reprieve for the state in wake of her ruling. “Her ruling is really quite condemning of the state…here we are, the ruling was in 2013 and she said that the state of Maryland operates a separate and unequal system of higher education that is segregated by race and she went through decades and decades of state policies and practices to reach that conclusion,” McConkie said. “She is now giving the state an opportunity to negotiate a remedy, but the remedy has to fix that violation…but, if they don’t then she will order a remedy that she feels is necessary,” he added.
State and Maryland University Officials Echo Scary Sounds of Centuries Past HBCU Coalition Lawsuit Observation By A. Dwight Pettit Special to the AFRO Statements by state legislators and representatives of the University system of Maryland (USM) in defense of Maryland’s dual system of higher education sound much like the rhetoric of the 1860s. Then, Southern Dixiecrats and plantation owners warned of the social, political and economic upheaval freeing the slaves would bring to the Southern way of life. They were sufficiently adamant to stage a civil war in order to maintain what was clearly an unjust, cruel and inhumane system. To hear echoes of those pre-civil war voices more than 150 years later coming from the most learned corners of our state is scary, to say the least. Yet, that is exactly what is unfolding in response to a federal court judge’s ruling requiring the State of Maryland to dismantle its unlawful dual system of higher education. Such reckless commentary can serve only to create confusion, raise anxiety and stir anger over the very important issues of equal educational opportunity and racial desegregation. Days after the ruling, University of Maryland Baltimore County (UMBC) Professor George LeNoue issued a statement in the Baltimore Sun warning of the disruption eliminating academic program duplication would cause and predicting that White students would not attend Historically Black Institutions, even if those institutions were made comparable and competitive with TWIs. Variations of the looming doom and gloom theme were further advanced by Baltimore County state senators Bobby Zirkin and James Brochin in opposing legislation proposed by Sen. Joan Carter Conway to provide for judicial review of controversial decisions made by the Maryland Higher Education Commission permitting unnecessary program duplication. Most recently, USM
Vice President Patrick J. Hogan told the Sun that University system officials too were “concerned about institutions suing each other in circuit court.” Professor LaNoue and his partners of prophesy must realize that the courts leave the State no choice but to dismantle its segregated system of higher education. Also, they have seen the data showing HBIs were among the most racially integrated of Maryland public campuses in the 70’s, just before the state’s return to the practice of program duplication. They have evidence suggesting that the existence of judicial review would deter rather than encourage lawsuits because of the strict scrutiny problematic program proposals would undergo. They are very much aware that the mechanism for orderly resolution of the duplication issue is well within current state policies for the discontinuance of existing programs and the approval of new degree offerings. If they are honest, they will admit that any reluctance of the State and USM officials to address the court’s concern is not about finding a way, it is a matter of having the will to do the right thing. Perhaps the most disturbing comments have come from USM Vice Chancellor Joann Boughman, who told a Sun reporter that the USM system “is trying to find a delicate balance between addressing Blake’s ruling and ensuring that traditionally White institutions aren’t harmed by being denied the chance to create competitive programs.” I seem to recall from my days on the USM Board of Regents that the same vice chancellor just happened to have been a longtime member of the Maryland Higher Education Commission who voted to approve Towson’s duplication of the Morgan MBA as well as several other instances of academic program duplication. Would not fairness have dictated that Vice Chancellor Boughman be equally protective of the Historically Black Institutions when she was considering whether or not to approve the program duplication the court found to be so harmful to HBIs? Should she not have insisted that HBIs also be made competitive? Boughman then proceeds to lay out arguments for not fully complying with the judge’s ruling by contending that “new programs can cost millions of dollars as new faculty are hired and other infrastructure is put into place.” Her arguments seem a hollow twist on the HBIs’ long held position that the investment of millions of dollars building facilities and hiring new faculty at Towson, UMBC and the University
of Baltimore, rather than investing in the growth and development of Coppin, Bowie, Morgan and UMES, was inefficient, immoral and unconstitutional. With the Court ruling against the State, there should be no doubt that the HBIs were correct and Maryland should not waste millions more of the taxpayers’ dollars paying legal fees for both the State and the HBI Coalition just to preserve what the court has determined to be a segregated system of higher education. Finally, in an apparent reference to the judge’s call for transfer or duplicated programs back to the HBIs, Boughman likens the remedy to the old adage of “robbing Peter to pay Paul.” Surely a system vice chancellor would know that it is Paul, not Peter, who was robbed. In fact, Peter has been found by the Court to be guilty and told to return Paul’s belongings. It is not the TWIs that need Boughman’s protection; it is the HBIs that must be made comparable and competitive with other public institutions of higher
education in the state. One can only imagine the models of desegregation and equal access the HBIs could have been had the State enabled them to continue on the trajectory they set in the years following passage of the Civil Rights Act of 1964 and subsequent enforcement actions of the U.S. Department of Education and Department of Justice offices of civil rights. State data show that the HBIs were well on the way to becoming exemplars of desegrega tion and equal access as well as models of efficiency and effectiveness because of the resurgence in enrollments. But with a series of well-orchestrated policy changes, state officials and then Commissioner Boughman and her colleagues shifted the fate of the HBIs, sending them into a downward spiral of internal turmoil and external criticism and demagoguery. It is time to set aside the scare tactics and focus on solutions that are both principled and practical. If an old adage is to be invoked as a closing note, it would be “Oh what tangled webs we weave when we practice to deceive.”
A. Dwight Pettit is a criminal defense attorney based in Baltimore.
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The Afro-American, March 29, 2014 - April 4, 2014
March 29, 2014 - March 29, 2014, The Afro-American
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Lt. Col. Melvin Russell Leads Baltimore Community Policing Effort By Roz Hamlett Special to the AFRO As violence and fear encroach upon schools and shopping malls even in the sleepiest of Baltimore’s suburbs, so has the stark reality that crime is everywhere, and that faith leaders and communities must abandon their own apathy first in order to change anything. Gone are the years of so-called zero tolerance policing during the 1990s when the sole responsibility for public safety in big cities like Baltimore was vested almost entirely in the uniform, the judicial robe, and the capacity of prisons to absorb the tsunami of those arrested on minor drug charges. Community policing, the new normal being embraced by police districts across the country in places as diverse as Boston and Baton Rouge, is nowhere more evident than in Baltimore City where Lt. Col. Melvin Russell, the commander of the Community Partnership Division, is slowly but steadily breaking down barriers between police, faith communities, community leaders, and neighborhoods both east and west. “These neighborhoods share many of the same issues,” says Russell, “no matter where you live.” Baltimore is a collection of more than 300 neighborhoods spanning 92 square miles with a resident population of about 621,000, according to the latest census figures. The face of crime in
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officials have staged a number of enrollment fairs throughout the state. And, in nearby Washington, D.C., officials have used varied approaches, including staging enrollment drives at church concerts and other faith-based activities, hosting a “Happy Hour” enrollment event at a local bar and launching an application for mobile phones. “It has been a challenge from the start to make sure we were strategic in our attempts to communicate, educate and enroll people,” said Mila Kofman, executive director of DC Health Benefit Exchange Authority. “Our outreach efforts have been multi-targeted and directed to where people live, work, pray and play.” The fast-approaching enrollment deadline presents different concerns for consumers, businesses and officials. “If you do not have health insurance already and don’t enroll by March 31st, you may not be able to get health insurance again until next year,” said Inouye, about the risk faced by Americans. There is no enrollment deadline for Medicaid and Children’s Health Insurance Program policies. And, in
Gardenville can look very different from crime in Penn Lucy given Baltimore’s broad diversity. “I always ask first do you want to see peace, hope and love restored to the community. If we can use that as our foundation, we can accomplish a lot,” says Russell, an assistant pastor in his church, who is gaining a reputation among law enforcement nationally for effective policing strategies that combine respect for the community, practical solutions and his strong faith in Jesus Christ. At a recent event on community policing in Lowell, Mass., Dave Funnell, a community leader who attended, recalls that Russell, the invited guest speaker, began by saying he came dressed just for a “talk” in blue jeans and a sweater. But before he was done, Russell had received “half-a-dozen standing ovations with people crying ‘Praise the Lord.’” Russell says that most places operate in silos, especially within the faith community. “It doesn’t matter whether we are Christian, Muslim or Jew, we can all work together.” Central to the work of Baltimore’s Community Partnership Division is a pilot program currently being implemented in the Eastern and Western Districts. Russell is focused on building out 29 “sector leadership teams” that are comprised of “shareholders” within the faith community, nonprofit organizations and community volunteers. Each
particular circumstances, such as lost employment, individuals will have a special enrollment period. Otherwise, consumers who do not purchase health insurance could face a tax penalty of $95 or 1 percent of their income—whichever is higher. For businesses with 50 or more full-time employees, March 31 represents the deadline for offering insurance to their workers—or they face fines of $2,000 to $3,000 per employee under the law. For state and federal officials, the deadline could represent a day of reckoning when the results of their enrollment efforts—and the millions of taxpayer dollars spent on insurance marketplaces, among other expenditures—will be judged according to official or nonofficial benchmarks. “From the beginning our benchmarks have been focused on ensuring that every American takes advantage of this opportunity to get quality affordable health insurance,” said Alvarez. Numerically, according to a Congressional Budget Office estimate released earlier this month, about 6 million Americans were expected to obtain private policies through the exchanges and about 8 million were expected to enroll in Medicaid and the Children’s Health Insurance Program,
sector within the community is tasked with identifying issues and concerns, devising strategies to solve the issues and implementing the strategy. One of his challenges internally within the department is getting the manpower and organizational resources that are a necessary part of developing the continuity and engaged presence between community officers and the communities they serve. “I want every community officer on the force to fall under my division. They will stay in their respective communities, but they will remain under my tutelage,” says Russell, who during his tenure as commander of the Eastern District, is credited with a precipitous drop in homicides and shootings in the district. The problem is that community officers, who are often viewed as expendable, are pulled away to work as patrol officers responding to 911 calls, burglaries, drug-related incidents and robberies. “We’re all police. We all took the same oath. And we all win when the skills of community officers are put to their best use. In the long run, a full-time community officer will bring relational equity between the police and the community. This gives the community an opportunity to establish an ongoing two-way dialogue. And it teaches the community officer to engage with the other patrols in the district providing them with key
which was expanded under the ACA. So far, more than 5 million persons have enrolled in plans through state and federal marketplaces, Alvarez said. In the District, where there are 35,000 to 36,000 uninsured, 30,000 persons have enrolled via its DC Health Link exchange so far. And, of the 16,000 eligible for Medicaid, 11,000 have been enrolled, Kofman said. And, in Maryland, 260,000 people was the target for this first enrollment period and, currently, more than 250,000 (including about 200,000 Medicaid enrollees) have signed up, officials said. There’s been a particular urgency to enroll younger Americans, who comprise a significant portion of the uninsured, to ensure the insurance marketplaces are actuarially sound and prices remain low. “Health insurance has to have a risk pool and the risk has to be spread out within that pool,” said Mayra E. Alvarez, associate director, Office of Minority Health, U.S. Department of Health and Human Services. “We not only want older, sicker people to have health insurance but we also want to have younger, healthier people in there to balance the risk.” So far, 27 percent of marketplace sign-ups has been
The AFRO is honoring Lt. Col. Melvin Russell with the first John H. Murphy Sr. Award, 8 a.m., March 29 at the Reginald F. Lewis Museum in Baltimore. Those interested in attending can find ticket information on afro.com. on the AFRO Facebook page or by calling Diane Hocker at 410-554-8243. intelligence they couldn’t otherwise access. It’s a force multiplier.” In addition to using community officers as important bridges to the community, Russell believes strongly that it makes a huge difference when communities themselves roll up their sleeves and engage. He saw firsthand the transformational difference this approach made in east Baltimore during his signature “Days of Hope” when the Eastern District facilitated huge community events that brought resources to thousands of residents from dozens of nonprofits, engaged volunteers and faith leaders. “It’s difficult to sell drugs when 20 or 30 people from the church turn out en masse in an openair drug market to send a signal that they don’t want this in their community,” he says. A collective shift in the
by young adults. Obamacare supporters hail the enrollment numbers as a good sign. However, according to the CBO, hundreds of thousands more Americans would likely have enrolled were it not for the sometimes catastrophic technical problems encountered in the initial phases of implementing the online insurance exchanges. For example, in January, thousands of Medicaid- and CHIP-eligible Americans who applied for health insurance through HealthCare.gov were not enrolled due to persistent glitches, creating further confusion and frustration among consumers and officials, who had to scramble to contact those persons and fix the problem. The IT troubles have provided grist to Republicans and other detractors of the Affordable Care Act, which recently celebrated its four-year anniversary. In addition to the malfunctioning websites, the ACA has also caused millions to lose their insurance plans, has increased premiums and will cause overburdened businesses to hire fewer workers, Republicans claim. “It’s been a broken promise, a broken website, lost jobs, lost plans, shrinking paychecks and rising prices,” said Orlando Watson, communications director for Black Media, Republican National Committee, in an e-mailed statement. “Unfortunately, it won’t get any better as most uninsured Black Americans will be dumped into Medicaid. Also, the added cost to hiring someone will mean employers will hire fewer people and our
community’s responsibility toward crime prevention and reduction is critical to the long-term success of community policing however. The Baltimore City Police 2013 Strategic Plan for Improvement reveals the need for a greater connection between police and the community. In response to a Community Leader Survey, the majority of respondents rated most of the services provided by the police as ‘extremely’ or ‘very important,’ but less than half of the community leaders surveyed were satisfied with the current level of service. “The stress must be on “partners,” says Russell, “the community needs to know from the police that we love you. We appreciate you. And we want to support you. But our community shareholders must take ownership.”
community will bear the brunt of this.” Maryland’s exchange has been one of the worst offenders and Republicans have called for a federal investigation. The fixes—hiring a new IT contractor, tripling the size of the call center, boosting staff boosted and creating a special hotline, among other solutions—will add $33 million to the already hefty $261 million-plus price tag for implementing the marketplace (figures based on already appropriated and projected costs from fiscal years 2012 to 2015.) “The situation in Maryland has been a national embarrassment by any measure…. Hundreds of millions of taxpayers’ dollars are being thrown down a rat hole,” said Dan Bongino, former Secret Service agent, now a Republican candidate of Maryland’s 6th Congressional District. “People need to take off the blinders and realize this is not going to work.... This has been the greatest legislative debacle in my 39 years on the Earth.” Maryland Health Secretary Dr. Joshua Sharfstein acknowledged the problems and its adverse impact on consumers, but said those are to be expected in the fledgling stages of a complicated IT system and said the enrollment data shows how much “elbow grease” was put into rectifying the problem. “The IT problem is regrettable but it is also fixable, so we don’t think that reflects a problem with the law itself,” Sharfstein said. Similarly, economists say while some premiums have
increased—reflecting the increased value of the plans— they are much lower than those first proposed by insurance companies. (The ACA allows insurance price regulators to bring down costs.) “What we started seeing in the fall was that the prices for insurance plans were lower than expected,” said Elise Gould, director of Health Policy Research at the Economic Policy Center. For a 25 year old in Maryland, for example, the cheapest plan costs $114; for a middle-aged adult it is $260, which is among the lowest rates in the country. And nationally, “the majority of people without insurance today will be able to find a plan for $100 a month or less,” Inouye said. Part of those savings come from tax credits for lower- to moderate-income Americans who sign up through the exchanges. In Maryland, for example, about 75 percent of purchasers of new coverage through the Maryland Health Connection could be eligible for tax credits, which can be applied to the monthly cost of premiums. As for exactly how many people—particularly the previously uninsured—who are now covered, it is hard to say. Read more on afro.com
Enrollment information:
Maryland: MarylandHealthConnection. gov, or to call 1.855.642.8572 Federal: HealthCare. gov, or call 1.800.318.2596 (individuals and families) and 1.800.706.7893 (small businesses)
In Memoriam
Mary Holmes Francis
On March 2, 2014, Mary H. Francis (Dee) passed away. Mary was the devoted mother of Janice Stewart Ewing and Angela Mitchell, dear sister of Ben Holmes and wife Joyce, and Nancy Marie Saul and husband Sidney; proud grandmother of Marleta Mitchell, Maria Chelsea Mitchell, Gregory Ewing II, and Jeffrey Ewing. Services were held at St. John Evangelical Lutheran Church, 4403 Pimlico Road.
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The Afro-American, March 29, 2014 - March 29, 2014
March 29, 2014 - April 4, 2014, The Afro-American
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Former Baltimore Oriole Star: Why Blacks Are Fading Away From Baseball By Roberto Alejandro Special to the AFRO In anticipation of the 2014 season, former Baltimore Orioles Ken Singleton spoke to the AFRO about the decline in the number of Black baseball players in the major leagues, major league’s efforts to combat that decline, as well as his path to becoming one of the few Black play-by-play announcers covering professional baseball. Singleton was a member of the last Orioles team to win a World Series (1983), and played with the club from 1975 until his retirement in 1984. He is currently a broadcaster for the Yankees Entertainment and Sports Network. In Part I, Singleton discusses the decline of AfricanAmerican participation in major league baseball. AFRO: When you played in Baltimore, did you feel like the team had a strong Black fan base? KS: I wouldn’t say that was particularly true. There were Black fans, there’s no doubt about that, but as far as “strong,” I’m not sure. Remember, a lot of games were on TV, and people watched the games on television. AFRO: Do you think that was a function of the economics of the city at the time? KS: Most definitely, and that’s probably true in just about every single city, it’s not only Baltimore. AFRO: I don’t get the sense that there’s a lack of Black fans, but sometimes there seems to be a lack of African-Americans participating, whether it’s going to the stadium or playing the game itself. KS: I don’t think that was the case when I was with the team, because in those days, I think that was the zenith of African-American or Black ballplayers. I think there were over 20 percent in the league, and I had several Black teammates: Pat Kelly and Lee May,
over the years. Eddie Murray, of course. Floyd Rayford, Al Bumbry, Elrod Hendricks were on the team, although he’s from the Caribbean … but the fact is that the numbers have dwindled over the years. That wasn’t the case back in the day. We had a strong representation of Black players on the Orioles during my 10 years with the team. AFRO: What has been the biggest change since the era when so many African Americans were representing the game? KS: I think that, No. 1, baseball’s kind of an expensive game to play. And also, maybe you don’t have facilities within the city limits where most African-Americans or Black players grow up. … Black players have a tendency to gravitate towards the other sports, basketball and football, where educational scholarships can be handed out if you’re pretty good, and we see that all the time. We see how, even now, the NFL is 70 percent Black, and the NBA, certainly, at least that, maybe more. And I think what is happening in baseball is most of the good athletes are gravitating towards those sports. But also I see in baseball, and this is something people don’t talk about very often, the percentage of foreign born players goes up every single year in major league baseball. That means eventually it’s not only going to be an African-American problem, it’s going to be an American problem, if you want to look at it as a problem of having players that fans might have a little harder time relating to, particularly if the team isn’t playing well.
Baseball Continued from A1
leagues, in 2013 AfricanAmerican players made up over 76 and 66 percent of the NBA and NFL respectively. In baseball, that number was just over 8 percent. Ken Singleton played for the Baltimore Orioles from 1975 to 1984, during what he called “the zenith of African American or Black ballplayers,” in an interview with the AFRO. Currently a broadcaster for the Yankees Entertainment and Sports Network, Singleton cited a number of factors contributing to the decline of Black involvement in professional baseball, including the costs associated with the game, and the greater availability of educational scholarships for football and basketball. “There’s another reason for the Black athlete to think about football and basketball … they’re getting an education, and right after they come out of college, if they’re good enough, the next stop is the NBA. You don’t have to go to the minor leagues,” Singleton said. Ray Banks, a board
member of the Hubert V. Simmons Museum of Negro Leagues Baseball in Baltimore County, also spoke about factors related to access, especially in innercities. “There are no batting cages in the city of Baltimore … all the batting cages are in the outlying areas of Baltimore County.” Jimmy Bland, a former player for the Indianapolis Clowns of the Negro Leagues from 1959-62, had his chance at a major league career undone by the military draft. He added the Vietnam War as another factor for the decline in African-American participation in baseball. Bland said, “Those guys came back to the United States with a lot of trauma. There were a lot of single mothers taking care of the boys, and the father wasn’t in the home. And I think that had an awful, awful lot to do with it.” For Bland, many soldiers affected by their experience of war came back addicted to drugs and were not present in the lives of their children. They were not
teaching them about baseball. This information gap helps account for the decline in baseball participation among African Americans relative to other sports. “Baseball is a boring sport,” said Bland, “if you don’t know the game.” For those interested in learning more about the game and the history of African Americans in baseball, the Hubert V. Simmons Museum moved to its new permanent facility at the Owings Mills branch of the Baltimore County Public Library on March 27th. For Luther Atkinson, a former Negro Leagues player, the history of the Negro Leagues is not simply about baseball, but about civil rights. “I want the kids to know what we had to go through,” Atkinson said, “and what we had to endure just to play the game of baseball, which they called the allAmerican game. But it was the all-American game for Whites, not for Blacks. That’s why we try to let them know what these great men had to go through and how great they were.”
Sacred Slam Continued from A1
Rev. Duckett examined the Bible and reasoned that spoken word was the beginning of creation. In Genesis, God spoke things into existence, which showed the power of speech. She said that in the new testament Jesus was contextual, meaning he could speak in the language of the culture he inhabited. Rev. Duckett the posed some striking questions. “Has the word of God stopped being contextual in the flesh for us? Have we stopped studying the work of Jesus of studying the culture?” Rev. Duckett suggested that we continue to keep a sound theology, but be flexible enough to speak to people in a way they can relate. Rev. Duckett believes if Jesus were alive today that he would find a way to speak to young people or people in an urban setting.
She explained that spoken word is more than consumption, but is redemption. Typically, people pay to consume spoken word and enjoy the art form, however, forgetting how it can change lives. “The redemptive properties are powerful [because] people can be reached, the message can go forward, there is beauty in poetry, and purging that can happen,” Duckett said. “So, it’s not just the latest craze. There is a vitality associated with spoken word.” Once her presentation concluded, three students from the Slam Team Connection School in Baltimore recited spoken word selections. There final piece dealt with Trayvon Martin, which was high energy and very emotional. The crowd rose give the performers a standing ovation.
They want to see somebody on the field that they can relate to. AFRO: It was in the 90s when you started to really see a large number of foreign-born players, especially from Latin America. KS: They put academies in the Caribbean. You know, it’s a cheap source of labor. Only Puerto Rico is subject to the draft. So you can find some very good players like a David Ortiz, or a Robinson Cano, or somebody like a Manny Ramirez relatively cheap, much more cheaply than you could someone you have to draft here in the United States and have to pay maybe a couple million dollars to just to get a contract signed and then you don’t even know if they’re going to be any good. That’s one of the issues here. AFRO: Do you think the game could have done more between the era in which you played and the era in which you started to see more international faces, to make more Black players the faces of franchises or of the sport? KS: You know, that’s a good point, but, as I said, if the majority of the fans are White, they are going to gravitate towards somebody they want to root for and usually it’s another White player rather than a Black player. There’s very few instances where you might say that an African-American or
a Latin America player is the face of a team. One major exception, of course, would be Derek Jeter. I’ve covered him for 19 years now, and he might even be the face of Major League Baseball over that majority of period of time. And it’s going to be tough to replace somebody like him, not only for the Yankees but for major league baseball itself. AFRO: Do you think the notion that baseball has a White-majority fan base is more a function of who is showing up at the stadium versus who is watching the game? KS: To watch the games on TV – I mean everybody has a television. And it’s getting to the point where attendance in ballparks is almost becoming secondary. I will say this, the teams love to have people in the ballparks, there’s no doubt about it, but with teams now having their own TV networks, it’s almost going to be more important how many people are watching on television. AFRO: Do you think as teams increasingly move away from relying on ticket sales as their major revenue stream that we’ll start to see other faces become the face of the franchise? KS: I would hope so. It depends on how good a player is, of course. Everybody likes to see a winner. I think that that is one reason why Jeter has been so admired, not only in New York but throughout baseball. When he leaves, he’ll be seen as a winning type player with five world championships. And I think, at this point in his career, he has the highest personal winning percentage of any player that’s currently active. In other words, of all the games he’s played, his percentage of wins is greater than anybody else. And fans love to see winning-type players.
Session Nears End Continued from A1
that specifically affect one religion, one denomination,” Braveboy said. “Have we violated the separation of church and state?” she added. A hearing and a vote on HB 0840 was scheduled for a vote in the House this week. Lack of diversity within state law enforcement agencies, specifically the state troopers is also an issue of concern for the Black Caucus. The number of Black state troopers has been dwindling for more than a decade. In 2012, according to state statistics, only 197 of the Maryland’s 1,453 troopers are Black, this compared to 2000 when 312 of the state’s 1,612 troopers were Black. It’s a decrease of about 37 percent. “It’s a huge issue,” Braveboy said. “We have a bill (HB1349) that has passed the House and is over in the Senate,” she added. The bill would require the State Police when it advertises for or recruits new employees to include advertising that targets communities of color and women among other remedies. A hearing in House is scheduled this week and a Senate hearing is slated for April 2. The fate of the state’s Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCU) is being considered in the courts and debated in the legislature. HB1194 is crafted to help Black institutions reach funding and operational parity with their White counterparts. “The bill will provide for an evaluation of the 10-year plans that were developed by the institutions…to determine whether or not it’s
enough to reach the level of parity to make them comparable with other universities,” Braveboy explained. The bill that passed the House was amended and is currently in the Senate and a hearing is scheduled for April 2. Battles to raise the minimum wage are taking place in statehouses across the country including Maryland, as the national debate continues to take shape. On March 7, the House voted 89-46 to increase the state minimum wage from the current $7.25/hr to $10.10/hr by 2017. The bill is currently in the Senate where Senate President Mike Miller has said it could be, `scaled back.’ The increase would take place in phases; $8.20 by January 2015, $9.15 by January 2016 and finally $10.10 by January 2017. The bill would also allow individual counties to set a higher minimum wage than the state. Late last year, Prince George’s County and Montgomery County both voted to raise the minimum wage to $11.50/hr by 2017. HB1166 is currently in the Senate being considered with other pieces of legislation crafted to aid certain ex-offenders in gaining employment. “There is a shielding bill…that has passed the House,” Braveboy said. “This would provide an opportunity for individuals who have been convicted of non-violent misdemeanors…to have their record shielded from public view so they can actually be competitive when they’re applying for jobs,” she added.
Cheatham’s Campaign Continued from A1
is seeking votes from Baltimore constituents same paper as the ones against me … we in June for the House of Delegates 40th found it in the exact same place … and they Legislative District seat. Cheatham used the exact same tape.” prides himself on being very active in the He contacted Conaway to inform him that community and having residents’ best interest the same person or group was replacing the at the forefront. literature of both campaigns. “We found these He said the message posters to be made of the about him on the posters was exact same material as the a complete insult. defamatory posters against “They did the worst thing me,” he said. “The posters in the world – to question are the exact same size of someone’s creditability, who the defamatory posters on has credibility,” he said. “I me.” really want this issue to die. On March 29, Cheatham I really don’t want to be in a is hosting a prayer breakfast [political] fight.” at Zeta Center for Healthy Cheatham said he called and Active Aging. He is Frank Conaway Sr. and said, – Marvin “Doc” Cheatham asking for everyone in “I found what I considered attendance to pray him to be some very damaging through this issue. posters against me, but ironically whoever “God answers prayers and this maybe the put the posters up against me … put up signs beginning of some of the nasty things that … for your daughter that used the exact same may happen,” he said. “I am asking God first printer evidently – because it was the exact to help me through this and give me victory.”
“I really want this issue to die. I really don’t want to be in a [political] fight.”
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The Afro-American, March 29, 2014 - April 4, 2014
COMMUNITY CONNECTION Pi Omega Chapter Conducts 58th Annual Talent Hunt
Photos by Lamont Tyler
First place winners with Pi Omega Chapter members: Malik Mosley, left, basileus; Dije Coxson, vocal classical; Kaylah Smith, dance; Sydney Boyd, instrumental classical; Keith Davenport, instrumental contemporary; Mohamed Tall, drama; Katyrah Davenport, vocal contemporary and Talent Hunt chairman, John Berkley. Pi Omega Chapter, Graduate Chapter of Baltimore, Md., Omega Psi Phi Fraternity, hosted its 58th Annual Bro. Kelvin J. O’Neal Talent Hunt Competition on March 2, at The Reginald F. Lewis Museum of Maryland African American History & Culture, located at 830 E. Pratt Street, Baltimore. The Talent Hunt demonstration was created in 1945 out of the Fraternity’s Sixth District (North Carolina and South Carolina), and is one of the international projects of the Omega Psi Phi Fraternity. Pi Omega has participated in this activity for over 50 years, and many talented high school students have benefited from this project through all-expenses paid trips, U.S. Savings Bonds, trophies, certificates, print and televised media exposure. Selected winners from the competition will represent Pi Omega Chapter at the District Talent Hunt Competition to be held at the 2014 66th Second District Conference. This year the conference will be held at the BWI Marriott in Linthicum, MD the weekend of April 24-27. Faith-Based Baltimore Event Offers Tools for Reducing Debt and Improving Credit in 2014 The City Temple Development Corporation will host a free event focused on helping Baltimore residents put plans in action to reduce their debt, improve their credit and increase their income through entrepreneurship. The seminar titled “Faith, Family & Finance will be held 8 a.m. to 1:30 p.m., March 29 at City Temple Baptist, located at 317 Dolphin Street. Offering advice on credit repair, small business start-up and estate planning, the event will provide practical hands-on tools that can be used immediately to develop and support
personal financial goals. The featured presenter is the Rev. Dr. DeForest B. Soaries, senior pastor, First Baptist Church of Lincoln Gardens, N.J., whose “dfree” ministry was highlighted in the acclaimed Soledad O’Brien’s CNN Documentary “Debt Almighty” (You Tube). Dr. Soaries brings a fresh perspective on debt and its impact on individuals and their Rev. Dr. DeForest B. Soaries communities that challenges each of us to adopt a lifestyle free from debt, deficits and delinquency. The Faith, Family & Finance event will serve as the Kick-Off to the “dfree” Movement for Baltimore. To register visit www.dfreebaltimore.org or call 410-6338932 Columbia Woman Elected Mid-Atlantic Adventist Church Vice President Columbia resident Celeste Ryan Blyden was promoted to vice president for strategic communication and public relations at the Columbia Union Conference of Seventh-day Adventists recently. Blyden previously served as assistant to the president of the union, the church’s Mid-Atlantic headquarters, also located in Columbia. Celeste Ryan Blyden “We appreciate the contributions you have made to the mission of the church here in the Columbia Union. We applaud your dedication and service,” said Dave Weigley, union president, following the unanimous board vote of Blyden’s appointment. “It was one of those decisions where you could catch and feel the electricity in the room. It was time to do this. This is the right thing to do. It is the first time, to my knowledge, that the Columbia Union has had a woman vice president,” he said as the room exploded with a standing ovation. In addition to her new duties, she will continue to lead the communication department and serve as publisher of the union’s monthly news magazine, the Visitor. During her tenure, Blyden and her team grew the Visitor brand to include a weekly email newsletter, videos, websites, the popular annual calendar, social media and other platforms. Blyden has a Bachelor of Science in Communication and Counseling Psychology from Washington Adventist University
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Gaithersburg Medical Student Wins Fellowship to Work in Ghana Alia Sommerville, a fourth-year medical student at Touro College of Osteopathic Medicine (TouroCOM), has been awarded a scholarship from National Medical Fellowships, Inc. (NMF), a non-profit organization that advocates for increasing the number of underrepresented minority physicians in the United States. The $5,000 award was made possible by The Lincoln Fund, a long-time supporter of the NMF and its mission.
Alia Sommerville The scholarship is making it possible for Ms. Sommerville, who hails from Gaithersburg, Md., to further pursue her passion of practicing medicine in the area of women’s health in underserved communities. She left for Ghana this week to spend seven weeks working in two OB/GYN clinics, helping to deliver babies and care for patients. “I am so excited and grateful for the opportunity to go to Ghana. I love to learn about different cultures and ever since I was little I’ve wanted to visit Ghana,” Ms. Sommerville said on the eve of her departure. “I am not sure exactly what to expect, but I have heard wonderful things. I believe this will be a memorable experience that will prepare me for the management of my future patients locally and abroad.” “Ms. Sommerville is a dedicated and hardworking medical student who embodies our mission. It is no wonder that she received this prestigious award,” said Dean Robert Goldberg, DO. “I know she will make us proud as she represents our school and Harlem when she cares for those in need in Ghana.” After graduation from TouroCOM, Ms. Sommerville will be working as a resident in OB/GYN at York Hospital in York, Pa., which she hopes will eventually be followed by a fellowship in maternal fetal medicine.
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March 29, 2014 - April 4, 2014, The Afro-American
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COMMENTARY
Honoring Women of Character, Courage and Commitment
I was pleased when “character, courage and commitment” was selected as the theme for Women’s History Month this year. These are the personal qualities by which societies are transformed. In his 2012 Proclamation, President Obama acknowledged our nation’s progress in assuring universal equality and opportunity, even while he challenged each of us to continue the struggle for a society offering Elijah Cummings equity to all. As the President observed: “This month, we are reminded that, even in America, freedom and justice never come easily.” It is historically accurate to recall that American women have always taken the lead in advancing their own citizenship. Less evident to some, however, has been the transformative impact of visionary American women upon everyone in our society. The values, determination, faith and sense of compassion that I learned from my mother have always been important strengths in my life. Yet, there are many other women to whom I feel a lasting sense of gratitude. For Baltimore’s African-American community, two women – a mother and her daughter – exemplify the legacy of greater social equity that we have received. Working together, Dr. Lillie Mae Jackson and her daughter, Juanita Jackson Mitchell, helped to transform our very southern city into the multiracial Baltimore of today. Few of us are old enough to remember the “Buy Where You Can Work” campaign of 1931 in which they played leading roles. Yet this effort, as much as any law, opened up jobs for many, many of our people – and served as a successful example for similar protests throughout the country. What many of us are able to remember is their decades-long leadership of the Baltimore Branch of the NAACP, the beginning of Thurgood Marshall’s civil rights career, the voter registration drives
that they led, and their constant advocacy for equal rights and greater opportunity. The daughter of this motherdaughter team, Juanita Jackson Mitchell, is often remembered as the first Black woman to graduate from the University of Maryland School of Law. She is also remembered as the wife of Clarence M. Mitchell Jr., the NAACP activist whose work did so much to advance civil rights nationally. Yet for me as a child, and my South Baltimore contemporaries, Juanita Jackson Mitchell will always be the lawyer who stood up for us children as we marched, day after day, to integrate the public, but segregated, swimming pool at Riverside. Ms. Mitchell’s advocacy and support at that moment taught me, for the very first time, that I had rights that other people had to respect. That lesson changed the trajectory of my destiny. Because of Ms. Mitchell’s example, I was instilled with a passion to study the law. Despite some who discouraged me, I persevered and brought up my grades. Eventually, I graduated from the same law school where Ms. Mitchell had earned her law degree – the same law school that Thurgood Marshall and the Baltimore NAACP had integrated in the 1930s. Because of two committed women and the NAACP Branch they led, I achieved my childhood dream. Except for the intervention of another strong woman, helping my neighbors as their lawyer would have been my destiny. Truthfully, I was reasonably content on that humid summer evening in 1982 when I received a call from Delegate Lena K. Lee. A master teacher, union leader, lawyer, and legislator, Delegate Lee had created a new vision of what a Black woman could hope to achieve in Maryland. Her work in public health and support for public education were legendary. With a few word that evening – and her unrelenting efforts and support
Cesar Chavez Day Calls on Us to Unite “We cannot seek achievement for ourselves and forget about progress and prosperity for our community … Our ambitions must be broad enough to include the aspirations and needs of others, for their sakes and for our own.” Cesar Chavez
While it is commonly thought that the Civil Rights Movement of the 1960s was by, of, and exclusively for the benefit of African Americans, the life and Marc H. Morial legacy of Cesar Chavez remind us how much it touched the lives of our Hispanic brothers and sisters and oppressed people everywhere. A Mexican-American born March 31, 1927 on a farm near Yuma, Arizona, Chavez and his family moved to California in 1938 to eke out a living like thousands of other overworked and underpaid migrant farm workers in his community. Rather than tolerate the daily injustices heaped upon them, which also included forced child labor, sexual harassment of women workers and the use of pesticides harmful to both workers
and consumers, Chavez devoted his life to organizing and improving the lives of migrant workers. In 1962, he and Delores Huerta co-founded the United Farm Workers Union. Inspired by the non-violent examples of Mahatma Gandhi and Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr., Chavez embraced the philosophy of non-violent protest and employed such tactics as marches, boycotts and hunger strikes to garner mainstream support for the rights of migrant workers. In 1968, he fasted for 25 days for better wages and working conditions in the fields of California’s San Joaquin Valley. Upon ending that strike by breaking bread with Senator Robert Kennedy, Chavez addressed his supporters, saying, “We are gathered here today, not so much to observe the end of the Fast, but because we are a family bound together in a common struggle for justice. We are a Union family celebrating our unity and the non-violent nature of our movement.” Chavez’s work and sacrifice inspired millions of people around the world, including Dr. King and National Urban League President Whitney M. Young Jr. In 1969, towards the end of a 5-year strike and boycott for the rights of Mexican and Filipino grape workers, Young met with Chavez and his supporters in Delano, Calif. Young was moved to write a To Be Equal column in which he said, “I was inspired by their spirit and their faith in the face of the odds against them.” He added, “Labor, by organizing the poor and the friendless, can help end poverty by protecting low-wage workers, and it can give the lie to those who happily proclaim the selfishness and prejudice of
When Elephants and Donkeys Fight
The Kenyan Proverb, “When elephants fight, the grass suffers,” is apropos to us, the grassroots. Only in our case, we are fighting over elephants and donkeys, but we are still the ones suffering. We watch the two parties fight every day, and then we take sides and jump in. Who is hurt by that? Certainly not them; it’s always us who are hurt, us who are left behind, and us who are ignored and taken for granted. They get rich James Clingman while the grassroots suffer. In follow up to my previous article on voting, I could not help but stay on the political subject a little while longer. After all, the mid-terms are coming up and, as usual, Black pundits are telling us this will be the “most important election of our time,” – again. How many times have you heard that? I must reemphasize, don’t mistreat your precious vote by giving it away to someone or some issue that is not in your best interests. Don’t be swayed by the talking heads that would have you walk lock-step with one political party or the other and vote a “straight” Democrat or Republican ticket. Protect your vote by being informed and casting it wisely. The road to political power is paved with hypocrisy – on both sides of the aisle. We can look back and recall many things
that have been said relative to a position taken and later that position was switched to the complete opposite side of the argument. One egregious example is the continued insistence by the warmongers to “get to the bottom” of the Benghazi situation. They use the four lives that were lost to justify their ire and outrage against Hillary Clinton. However, the same crowd, led by Chaney, Rumsfeld, and Condoleezza Rice, was responsible for some 5,500 lives lost in that unnecessary war in Iraq. What hypocrites! All life is sacred, but politicians only value the lives of our soldiers when it’s convenient for them and fits their agenda for reelection. A similar example of hypocrisy is the president’s use of drones that have killed innocent people. Railing against the killing of innocents in Iraq and then killing more innocents in Afghanistan and Pakistan is hypocrisy. How about raising the debt ceiling? Many politicians are for it when their guy is president, but against it when the other guy gets in. Hypocrisy reigns among the elephants and the donkeys as they fight each other. The rancor and hate-filled speeches and remarks by party sycophants on so-called television “news” shows are disgusting and hypocritical as well. We have dueling networks, Fox and MSNBC, who make no bones about showing us how much they hate and love President Obama. Fox vilifies Obama and MSNBC holds him up as though he is a god. Both are wrong, of course, but we take sides and suffer even more from their fight. I am sickened by the shameful acts of various politicians and the parties they blindly support. But even worse is the grassroots crowd and how we relate to so-called leaders who are supposed to be concerned about our well-being and this nation’s future. We eat up anything they and their lap-dog
during the months that followed – Delegate Lee reached out to me, a young man whom she did not even know personally. “I am going to retire,” she told me, “and I am looking for a competent and caring lawyer to take my place. I was hoping to find a woman, but I think that you will do ...” I recall these memories for you as a voice of history on behalf of those who have lifted me up in life. Yet, there is a broader purpose as well. So often, when we think about women’s struggles for equality, we define that struggle in terms of women’s struggle for equal rights. As the father of two wonderful daughters – and as a lawyer – I would not disagree. Yet, when I gratefully recall the impact of Lillie Mae Carroll Jackson, Juanita Jackson Mitchell and Lena K. Lee upon my own life, Their personal example of conscience and sense of social duty – as much as all that they accomplished in the public realm – may be their most lasting historical legacy. U.S. Rep. Elijah Cummings represents Maryland’s 7th Congressional District in the United States House of Representatives.
some unions.” Cesar Chavez died on April 23, 1993. Following Whitney Young’s example, subsequent National Urban League leaders, me included, have continued to work in solidarity with the goals of the United Farm Workers and numerous other Latino civil rights organizations. I spoke at the National Council of La Raza conference last summer and attended part of the League of United Latin American Citizens (LULAC) conference last month. We are all united in many of our struggles, especially the fight to end income inequality and poverty. As an iconic labor leader and anti-poverty activist, Cesar Chavez would have likely also been an enthusiastic supporter of the National Urban League’s current petition to raise the minimum wage and all of our work for jobs with living wages and fair benefits. President Obama has proclaimed Chavez’s birthday, March 31, as Cesar Chavez Day “to remember a man who made justice his life’s calling.” We believe that the best way to honor Chavez’s legacy is through service and a renewed commitment to end income inequality and poverty. Congress can do its part by raising the minimum wage now. To sign the National Urban League’s Raise the Minimum Wage petition, visit nul.org – and do your part to help put millions of Americans on a path to a better life. Marc H. Morial, former mayor of New Orleans, is president and CEO of the National Urban League.
mouthpieces say, and then regurgitate it to our own people as though it’s the Gospel itself – suffering all the more for our lack of inquisitiveness, critical thought, and knowledge. Here’s the bottom-line: We must stop falling for the hype and being used and abused in the process. While the elephants and donkeys fight, and as we take sides, our children’s futures are going down the drain; our hope of economic empowerment is waning; our status and position in this country are diminishing; our gravitation toward politics and aversion for economic empowerment continue to push us further down the ladder; and as we continue to follow self-aggrandizing misleaders we will slowly but surely die, and our children will end up being permanently dependent and at the mercy of those in control of this country. Let the elephants and donkeys fight, just get out of range and off the field of battle so you will not be trampled under their feet. Notice that while they fight all the time, neither one dies. That’s because one does not want to kill off the other. They just want you to keep watching the fight and keep your mind diverted from the important things, particularly your own wellbeing and your own future. If you are not convinced to stop enabling the elephants and donkeys by cheering for one or the other, grab your popcorn, keep our ringside seat, and enjoy the fight, but know that only you will suffer in the end. Jim Clingman, founder of the Greater Cincinnati African American Chamber of Commerce, is the nation’s most prolific writer on economic empowerment for Black people. He is an adjunct professor at the University of Cincinnati and can be reached through his Web site, blackonomics.com.
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The Afro-American, March 29, 2014 - April 4, 2014
With the county’s first LEED-certified building already on site, and a proposed state-of-the-art design that recycles water, our project won’t take away from the Chesapeake’s wonder. Dominion’s Cove Point project will have a very positive impact on the local economy. Thousands of construction jobs, 75 high-paying permanent positions and tens of millions in annual county revenue will add to what’s already been a four-decade commitment to Calvert County and protecting the Chesapeake Bay. With the nation’s commitment to natural gas exports, it’s nice to know that the people who live and work here will enjoy its economic benefits. Cove Point—another great solution for Southern Maryland.
To learn more visit dom.com/covepoint
@Dom_CovePoint
March 29, 2014 - April 4, 2014, The Afro-American
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Lenora Cobb and her granddaughter Desiree Crawford Jerome C. Thomas and Morris N. Phillips
Lenora Cobb’s 100th birthday was indeed one to celebrate. So on March 8th, family and friends came to the Forum Caterers to help her observe this momentous occasion. For those who couldn’t be there, like her family from California who sent some video greetings, good wishes abounded. Greetings also came from President Barack and first lady Michelle Obama, U.S. Rep. Elijah Cummings and Maryland Gov. Martin O’Malley.
Surrounding Ms. Lenora Cobb at her 100th birthday celebration are her children, from left, Geraldine Smith, Louise Keating, Huey Cobb and Earline Giles. On the back, Alonzo Cobb and Arthur The great grandchildren surround Ms. Cobb. Front row, from left Vincerra Cobb
Ms. Cobb with her great, great grandchild Maci Dickerson
Ms. Cobb with her best friend of 53 years Ms. Elizabeth Jones
Ms. Cobb with her great, great grandchildren Khalil and Khyretha Jackson
The South Baltimore Learning Center recently held its 2014 Gala Cirque Du Learning, March 8 at Montgomery Park Business Center. Adult learners as well as
Currie, Joy Cobb and Nicole Keating. Second row, Alexander Labeach, Sydney Keating, Khyretha Jackson, Courtney Labeach, Tashika Boone and Dominic Lee. Last row,
SBLC Learners Judith Brown, Mary Coxson,
Kate performs for the audience
community leaders and supporters enjoyed the black-tie event, emceed by Vytas Reid, Fox 45 Chief Meteorologist. Guests danced to sounds of Fifth Avenue
Sandy Arnette and Latease Lashley
and sampled dishes from Baltimore’s best restaurants and caterers. The Center provides job readiness training including functional literacy and life skills training to local residents.
Photos by Anderson Ward
Anne Heesters Schroth, president board of directors
Mayor Stephanie RawlingsBlake
Sonia Socha, executive director and honoree Barry Blumberg
SBLC graduate and awardee, Janice Williams
Dr. Leah Goldsborough Hasty, president, talked about her friend, the late Irene Vetta Bennett Reid.
Bennie M. Keene opened the program with words of inspiration.
Family members of the late Irene V. Bennett Reid are Rev. Jay Young, Karla Reid Young, Dr. Patricia Schmoke, Kurt L. Schmoke, former Mayor of Baltimore
In memory of Irene Vetta Bennett Reid, mother of Kurt Schmoke, former Baltimore Mayor and Karla Reid Young, Leah’s Book Club honors her during National Women’s History Month each year. Dr. Leah Goldsborough Hasty revealed Mrs. Reid’s passion for reading, indicating that she was an avid reader and literary genius, she edited books, was a master of pronunciation and a crossword afficionado. During each year’s celebration, club members honor and recognize women who have made and continue to make contributions to their communities and those who embody the same spirit and concern Mother-daughter for others as Irene Reid demonstrated duo, Doris Cole, throughout her career. Stephanie Cole Hill Gloria Holley, honoree with Guest author was Larry Gibson, professor at the sponsor Juanita Davis Edgerton University of Maryland School of Law who practices with the law firm Shapiro Sher Guinot & Sandler. Professor Gibson, author of Young Thurgood: The Making of a Supreme Court Justice, details the environment, people and events that shaped Thurgood Marshall’s attitude, work habits, and priorities in his formative years. He described Justice Thurgood Marshall as the most important American lawyer of the Diana Gibson, with Dr. Brenda Conley, century. Lorna Brice, sponsor with honoree Vera P. Hall
Beulah Wallace, sponsor, with Eleanor P. Matthews, honoree
Ernestine Dunston, sponsor with honoree Dr. Estelle Brown
Michele Brown and Paula Stephens
Vytas Reid, emcee
Tony Randall, SBLC Advisory Council; Jessie Moore, SBLC director of technology and Tabb Bishop, Verizon
Honoree Hiawatha Howard with sponsor, Alice Shelton
Khalil Jackson, John Keating, Alyssa Cobb, Taylor Cobb (holding Cory Cobb), Brandon Giles, Denzel Dickerson, St. Elmo Crawford and Khristina Crawford. (Back) Darryl Dickerson Photos (holding great, by Keith great grandchild Maci). Henry
Malia Cohen, honoree with Dorothy A. Marshall, sponsor
Judy Rainey, honoree with sponsor Claudette Edgerton Swain
Rev. Dr. Lareesa Smith Horn, honoree with sponsor Dr. Louise Blount Smith
husband, Prof. Larry Gibson, author of Young Thurgood The Making of a Supreme Court Justice
sponsor, with honoree Faye T. Ebron
Photos by Dr A. Lois De Laine
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The Afro-American, March 29, 2014 - April 4, 2014
Stokely: A Life by Peniel E. Joseph Book Review by Kam Williams “It was Thursday, June 16,
1966… Less than a year before, President Lyndon Johnson had signed the Voting Rights Act… Stokely Carmichael was now in
Mississippi to ensure that the federal laws… would apply to black sharecroppers living in plantation communities…
[Just] released from his latest stay in jail… Stokely’s voice broke through the humid Mississippi night…’This is the
27th time that I’ve been arrested,’ he shouted, ‘and I ain’t going to jail no more… We want black power!’
Carmichael made a case for political revolution. ‘We have begged the president. We’ve begged the federal government… Every courthouse in Mississippi ought to be burned down tomorrow!’ His life changed that night, and so did America’s civil rights movement. Black Power provoked a national reckoning on questions of civil rights, race and democracy.” -- Excerpted from the Prologue (pages 1-2) Stokely Carmichael (19411998) was born in Trinidad but moved to Harlem at 11 where he joined his parents who had already emigrated to the U.S. An outstanding student, he attended NYC’s prestigious Bronx High School of Science and Howard University before turning down a full-scholarship from Harvard Graduate School in order to do pursue his passion, namely, civil rights work in the South. Stokely rose to the rank of Chairman in the Student NonViolent Coordinating Committee, in which capacity he would forge a close relationship with one of his idols, Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. However, he tired of the passive resistance approach after being repeatedly arrested, attacked, intimidated and terrorized by white supremacists for organizing poor black folks who just wanted to exercise their right to vote and to sit at a lunch counter. Another one of Stokely’s heroes was Malcolm X, a militant firebrand who was no fan of turning the other cheek. And when Malcolm was assassinated in 1965, a huge leadership void was created in terms of AfricanAmericans advocating an “eye for an eye, and a tooth for a tooth” political ideology. The very next year, Stokely, a charismatic speaker whose magnetism was matched only by his ambition, emerged as Malcolm’s heir apparent upon delivering his historic Mississippi speech during which he coined the term “Black Power.” He rapidly skyrocketed to icon status as he crisscrossed the country on the college and inner-city circuits. In 1966, he also founded the Black Panther Party which eventually blossomed into the preeminent, national, radical organization. Given Stokely’s notoriety and resume, one would think that a biography of him would’ve been published before now. After all, both Malcolm and Dr. King have been the subject of beaucoup bios. Perhaps Stokely’s been bypassed because he wasn’t a martyr, or because he left the U.S. for good after marrying singer Miriam Makeba in 1968. Regardless, thanks to Tufts University Professor Peniel Joseph, the fiery iconoclast is belatedly getting his due. Meticulously-researched and painstakingly-detailed, Stokely: A Life is a fast-flowing, informative read which intimately follows its subject from the cradle to the grave in absorbing fashion. In the process, this powerful portrait effectively repositions him as an uncompromising prophet who played a pivotal role in the struggle for black equality. A visionary of far more substance than the rallying cry he’d been reduced to by history. To order a copy of Stokely: A Life, visit: http://www. amazon.com/exec/obidos/ ASIN/0465013635/ref%3dnosim/ thslfofire-20
March 29, 2014 - April 4, 2014, The Afro-American
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ARTS & CULTURE
Review: ‘Why Every Black Woman Should Marry a Jewish Man’ By Kam Williams Special to the AFRO “How many times have we heard successful AfricanAmerican women complain they can’t find a good man? Everyone has an opinion on the black man shortage, but none of the so-called relationship experts offer real solutions… Is it possible that we have been missing an important match? Yes! Jewish men make wonderful husbands… as well as fantastic lovers. This book… sheds light on why successful black women, and career gals in general, and Jewish men are very compatible… In summary, to find Mr. Right, women must date with quality in mind, such as character traits and values, they should be open to interracial dating, and apply faith in dating.” — Excerpted from the Introduction (pages xiii-xiv) Sometimes, a sister has to kiss a lot of frogs before finding her soul mate. In Dr. Nazaree Hines-Starr’s case, she had to date a lot of “scumbags,” as she puts it. As a Black woman, she had trouble meeting single guys who were at her level “emotionally, academically or professionally.” Unfortunately, most of the available African-American men she met “had managed to waste years that should have been spent in college or developing a career, chasing skirts, getting arrested, or playing video games.” Moreover, many had “accumulated baggage” such as “rap sheets” and “baby-mama drama.” And even the rare brother
who had his act together was never serious about settling down and starting a family. So, rather than lower her standards by entertaining the advances of commitment-phobic losers from a lower socioeconomic class, Nazaree decided to expand her pool of potential suitors to include men who might not be Christian or African-American. Lo and behold, she met her future husband over the internet at an online dating website. Although Michael was white and Jewish, love blossomed across the color and religion lines, and the couple has since married and welcomed a baby boy, Hayden. Nazaree chronicles her perils in the battle-of-the-sexes and exactly how she emerged victorious with the perfect alpha male on her arm in Why Every Black Woman Should Marry a Jewish Man. The author, a gifted writer but a pharmacist by trade, is surprisingly forthcoming in her combination memoir/how-to tome whose title speaks for itself. Beginning with Chapter One, “Scumbag Files,” she takes delight in laying out the lessons she learned from a string of dates from hell. By Chapter Eight, she’s done with dishing the dirt and is ready to extol the virtues of taking a dip in the snow, so to speak—entering a relationship with a proverbial good Jewish boy. Why? First of all, you don’t have to worry that he might be on the “down-low,” because Jewish culture isn’t homophobic. Secondly, Jewish men generally graduate from college, and
It was the best of times, it was the worst of times, it was the age of wisdom, it was the age of foolishness, it was the epoch of belief, it was the epoch of incredulity, it was the season of light, it was the season of darkness, it was the spring of hope, it was the winter of despair… Charles Dickens March was a whirlwind of activities. I felt like I was “gone with the wind” keeping up with the flurry of invites that I love receiving. John Lee of Zenith Hospitality hosted an industry mixer in Fells Point at Kali’s Court to introduce new and familiar faces of Caesar’s Horseshoe Casino. Guests had the opportunity to mingle and network with Benjamin Pitts, Caesar’s senior recruiter; Alex Dixon, Caesar’s assistant general manager and Robert Booker, Caesar’s head security chief as they encouraged people to join their team. “Choose a job you love, and you will never have to work a day in your life.” Confucius Caesar’s has a myriad of job opportunities for 1700 positions at the new casino. If you are interested, send your interest to Benjamin Pitts at bpitts@caesar.com. Ola! There is a need for multilingual personnel so brush up on your high school Spanish. People enjoying the snowy Tuesday night sipping wine and munching authentic Greek dishes were Marsha Jews, Robert Jones, Julelah Fuller, Dera Fuller, George Hutcheson, Jack Tomalis, Harold Hayley, Marcy Crump, Ceretha Spencer, George and Junetta Barnes, Kenneth Hall and Charles Dozier. “Every veteran is a hero.” Joe Walsh On a crisp Saturday morning, veterans and members of the community gathered on Winters Lane in Catonsville for an informative meet and greet with Lt. Gov. Anthony Brown. The event hosted by Jackson and Johnson Memorial Post #263, The Retired Enlisted Association represented by Michael Gales, Carlos Hutchins and Dr. Rob Gregory. Individuals had the opportunity to talk with the Lt. Governor individually before the meet and greet. “Soldier boy” When I walked into the standing room only crowd it took a minute to realize that the young handsome soldier dressed in military attire with “stars and stripes” and representing his post affiliation was Anthony Brown, a veteran of the United States Military. “We are one” He greeted the veterans as one of them, a soldier who had served his country honorably with distinction and could relate to the importance of veterans affairs. “Each city should have its own type of restaurant.” Marcus Samuelsson Nancy’s SNAC on W. North Ave in the arts district is the ideal destination spot for dining with the artsy crowd at MICA. Kevin Brown and Bill Maughlin are the perfect hosts for a wonderful fun evening. The Friday Night Bunch has dined there on several occasions. Kevin enjoys polishing the crystal glasses for your BYOB libation. The menu consists of four main menu items and varies daily. Say hi to my longtime friend Mary Holter, Kevin and Bill’s right hand. The décor creates a warm ambiance as you dine, as the outside world wave as they pass by,
Dr. Nazaree Hines-Starr decided to expand her pool of potential suitors to include men who might not be Christian or African-American. they aren’t looking for someone to support them. Furthermore, they “marry BEFORE making babies,” and “they don’t display their underwear in public.” Plus, they’re practical financially and don’t have a need to preen in macho fashion. And last but not least, they know how to please a partner in bed. The sum appears to be a proven approach for open-minded sisters in search of their Prince Charming.
just wave back. Friends are hosting a Sunday afternoon jazz brunch for Antonio Hayes this Sunday at Phaze 10 on Howard St. Call Megan at 410- 547-8884 for details. “How do I say goodbye to what we had? The good times that made us laugh outweigh the bad. I thought we’d get to see forever but forever’s gone away. It’s so hard to say goodbye to yesterday…” BoyZ to Men Like Antonio Vivaldi’s “Four Season”, I love the four seasons, each season unique in its own beauty. When I think of spring, I think of Oriole’s opening day and the opening day phone call from my daddy. “Spring will be a little late this year a little late arriving, in my lonely world over here” Ella Fitzgerald “Valerie this is your daddy what time you going to the ballgame? Orioles look pretty good this year they got a chance.” But, they still can’t beat the Nationals and we would lovingly banter back and forth. During the game, I would call after each good play or run scored, bragging about the Orioles. If the inning went badly he would call me. The love of a daughter and her daddy bonding over baseball is priceless. It started when we were having dinner at the Hot Shoppe on New York Avenue and DC’s former team the Senators were dining next to us. My daddy knew all the players; imagine his excitement when the Nationals arrived. As I grew older, I would take my children to opening day at Memorial Stadium when school closed early for opening day. “Those were the days.” Monday I will experience “sweet bitter love” knowing I won’t receive that phone call or go to the Nationals’ game with him or call him on April 1st to wish him a happy birthday. Condolences to Dr. Donald and Joanne Parker on the death of her mother Ruth Savage; to the family of Calvin “Play” Spellman on his death, to Betty Handy-Oliver on the death of her daughter Lauren Handy, and to Pamela “Ms. Maybelle” on the death of her mother Vivian Thornton “Lord, this bitter earth, yes, can be so cold. Today you’re young too soon, you’re old” Dinah Washington But, not the following people who are celebrating their birthday: Catalina Byrd, Michelle Emery, Dr. Everett Garnett, Donnie Green, Margaret Lee, 49er Angela Gibson, Rita HorsleyJohnson, Goldie Wood, Dr. June James, Betina Fletcher, Gloria “Tuttie” Bogan, Anthony Hawkins, Diane Hocker and Dan Henson. Sending warm get-well wishes to Glenn Middleton. Go Orioles! Valerie & the Friday Night Bunch
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The Afro-American, March 29, 2014 - April 4, 2014
AFRO Sports Desk Faceoff
SPORTS
Could Jets Be Flying into Quarterback Controversy with Signing of Michael Vick? By Perry Green and Stephen D. Riley AFRO Sports Desk In search of some serviceable competition for current starting quarterback Geno Smith, the New York Jets recently acquired Michael Vick. After a rocky first year, Smith showed hints of impressive play last season in between stints on the bench. When the Jets landed Smith in the second round of the 2013 NFL Draft, many thought he would quickly take over for then-starter Mark Sanchez, and become the signal-caller that the team lacked over the previous few seasons. While Vick signed only a one-year deal, he will hope to become the starter in what might be his last shot at a full-time role in the NFL. But after claiming the starting quarterback position last season, Smith won’t relinquish it freely to the newly-signed Vick. Could a quarterback controversy be on the way in New York? Perry Green and Stephen D. Riley of the AFRO Sports Desk debate the question. Riley: It would be foolish for the Jets to hand the starting position over to Vick, even if the 11-year veteran might give them the best chance of winning. New York made some bold moves last summer to acquire Smith, including the attempted trade they tried to make on the second day of the NFL Draft. Plus, they endured the scrutiny they knew would follow Smith’s arrival considering Sanchez was the current starter. New York subsequently launched the Smith era before it was ready, but invested their season into the rookie signal-caller out of West Virginia. New York’s season floundered as a result, but a rash of injuries devastated the team as they attempted to break in a rookie quarterback. To merely toss Smith aside and
Hampton University
let Vick take the helm places the team at a crossroads. Is Smith the future, or is he another cog in the quarterback assembly line that the Jets have trotted out over the past few years? Green: If it’s about winning, then Vick should be the named starter before training camp even begins. The Jets haven’t made the playoffs since 2010, and they can’t rely on Smith to figure it out next year with so much at stake. Head coach Rex Ryan’s job will definitely be on the line next season, and when you’re playing in New York, there’s no room for errors. Vick has had success in the NFL, and right now, he’s the most qualified quarterback on the roster to turn things around and get the Jets back into the playoffs. Smith might be the future, but Vick is the present. Riley: The Jets finished 8-8 last year, so it isn’t like Smith’s inaugural year was a flat out disaster. He showed promise, and made a number of good throws to prove he had what it takes. Personally, I’ve never been sold on Smith, but I am a firm believer in making every move count, similar to the game of chess. You can’t draft a quarterback high in the second round, give him the reins as the starter, then yank the duties away from him in his second year when he “should” be making improvements. What was the point in drafting him at all, if that’s the case? New York hasn’t made the postseason in years but even if Vick took the helm and the Jets made it next season, how far would this team really go? This team is in no way constructed right now to hoist the Lombardi Trophy, so why stunt Smith’s growth? And with the frequency that Vick gets injured, why subject the team to a rotation at quarterback when it would just hurt the team as well as Smith?
Green: We both know it would be a strange sight to see Geno Smith starting while Michael Vick is on the sidelines holding a clipboard. Let’s just be honest: the best quarterback on this team right now is Vick, and Wikimedia Commons if that equates to Smith taking While Vick signed only a one-year deal, a step back, he will hope to become the starter in then everyone what might be his last shot at a fullinvolved should be fine with that. time role in the NFL. Maybe the Jets did throw Smith into the fire too early last year; well, here’s the chance to make amends and let the second-year pro learn from a longtime veteran. Smith’s rookie season was ugly. He threw 21 interceptions to just 12 touchdowns. Vick has never come close to throwing 20 interceptions in his entire career. Vick has the better arm, has better mobility, and is even a better leader in the locker room than Smith. An NFL team has to play the quarterback that gives them the best chance for victory. At this point, Vick is clearly that option.
HBCU NEWS
Head over Heels for Family, Career and Education Higher education, high heels and historic family ties took center stage at the March 21 closing luncheon of Hampton University’s 36th annual Conference on the Black Family. The “Head Over Heels” event paid tribute to five women for successfully balancing their communications careers and family values - all in style. The 2014 “Head over Heels” honorees are: Debbie PollockBerry, senior vice president, Human Resources, XO Communications; Bonita Billingsley Harris, manager of media and community relations, Dominion Virginia Power; Barbara Ciara, anchor, News Channel 3; Lynne Harris-Taylor, vice president, Specials & Music Production, BET
Networks and Tina Lewis, president, The HRL Group. “For the past 36 years, the Conference on the Black Family has paid tribute to AfricanAmerican families and addressed the issues that confront our community,” said HU President Dr. William R. Harvey.
“Having been around women in my own family who have succeeded professionally while understanding the importance that a strong family unit plays in our society today, I was particularly pleased that Hampton University recognized these outstanding women who embody those same ideals.” The event not only celebrated the women’s achievements, it brought together three families for the first time in many years. It was a special reunion for Kelly Harvey Gill, attorney; April Wilson Woodard, HU journalism professor; Bonita Billingsley Harris, honoree, and their parents.
The three women grew up together as daughterof prominent college presidents and amazing first ladies, all in attendance - Dr. William and Norma Harvey at Hampton University, Dr. Harrison and Lucy Wilson at Norfolk State University and Dr. Andrew and Amy Billingsley at Morgan State University in Baltimore. Ironically, as adults, the three daughters became reacquainted as TV reporters in Hampton Roads and dear friends before pursuing other careers in communications. “As a child, I took it for granted that African American men and women were high achievers who valued education and gave back to the community,” said Harris. “Now
I’m increasingly humbled and grateful for friends, family and coworkers of all backgrounds who’ve enriched my life.” Hampton University has been holding the conference on the Black family since 1978, when HU President Dr. William R. Harvey recognized a need for consistent and formal dialogue concerning the African-American community. It has provided an annual forum for people to come together to discuss important issues concerning the Black Family. This year, national leaders from media, entertainment, politics and education convened on Hampton University’s campus for the annual conference from March 19 to March 21.
Lincoln University
Bill Cosby Encourages Support for Lincoln’s Scholarship Campaign Hollywood legend and philanthropist Dr. William “Bill” Cosby Jr. is encouraging corporations, foundations, churches, the general public as well as alumni, faculty and staff of The
Bill Cosby
Lincoln University to support the university’s first-ever $10 they truly matter” he added. million Students First Campaign. Recently, alum Kevan Turman ’01, MSR ‘08, formerly Dr. Cosby serves as general chair of the endowment assistant-to-the-president, was named new campaign manager. campaign, which supports both merit and need –based Turman, 35, formerly the director of development at Grambling student scholarships and ends June 30. Over the past several University in Grambling, Louisiana before returning to Lincoln, months, the university has enlisted the support of alumni, he also held prior positions as director of Annual Fund at Wiley faculty and staff as well as corporate, foundation and faithCollege in Marshall, Texas, associate director of Alumni Clubs based community leadership to also encourage support while and Young Alumni Programs at the University of Delaware and numerous solicitations on Dr. Cosby’s behalf have been made director of Alumni Relations at Lincoln. to support the campaign. “There is a short “As you know, I have had a long window of opportunity relationship with Lincoln, and ask you to join to close the gap on me in ensuring its sustainability with your this campaign,” said financial support in the University’s Students Turman. “This is a First Campaign for student scholarships,” huge undertaking for a said Dr. Cosby, who received an honorary school that has struggled doctorate of laws degree from Lincoln in with giving annually. 2011. “Support is needed to help Lincoln However, the greatest part attract the best and brightest students as of this effort is the focus well as assist the more than 96 percent of on providing our students Lincoln’s students who depend on financial with scholarships. This is assistance.” our first-ever Endowment “With other wealthier majority institutions Campaign where the having the funding to attract more and more interest accrued from of our students, only at Lincoln will students monies raised will benefit realize that regardless of being the first in both students in need and their household or first in their class, here, students who achieve.” Kevan Turman
March 29, 2014 - April 4, 2014, The Afro-American
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FAITH The Voices of Carter Bishop J. Drew Sheard and Bishop Pierce
Bishop Pierce leads in the dance.
Bishop Joel Trustee Cheryl Wiggins Harley Lyles Jr. presenting keys to Pastor Pierce with Bishop Lyles looking on
Elder Stephen Jones, pastor, Greater Hope COGIC
Superintendent Willie Hunt
Bishop James Nelson
Dr. Tony Torain served as worship leader at the gathering to celebrate the new home of Carter Memorial Church of God in Christ, March 15, at what used to be St. Peter’s, the city’s second oldest Catholic church, at 13 S. Poppleton Street in Baltimore. Elder Carl A. Pierce Sr., senior pastor, told the AFRO in an earlier interview that he knew the first moment he entered the building, that this was the place. “Something just leapt in my spirit. I saw it alive. I saw worship. I saw activity.” And with one sound, at the service of dedication, the shout went up with great gratitude for the heavenly provision of a new facility. And in jubilation, Elder Pierce led congregants in dance as the Voices of Carter lifted songs of praise. My Energy Use Ideas & Advice
1st Black Women’s Team to Win
Towson University Debate Team members Ameena Ruffin ‘15 and Korey Johnson ’16 won the Cross Examination Debate Association (CEDA) national championship, March 24, at Indiana University. “Ruffin and Johnson are the first African American women’s team to win a national tournament,” according to Mike Davis, CEDA president. “No African American woman has ever won our tournament before.” The Towson team beat Oklahoma in the final round to claim the national title. In the course of the tournament the Towson team bested teams from elite schools including Harvard, Trinity, Michigan,
Elder Rodney Parker, assistant pastor
Bishop Pierce
Lady Kandace Pierce from right, Dr. Vell H. Lyles, Mother Lucille Spann, Supervisor Mildred Linzy, Mother Sylvia H. Law, Lady Myra Banks and Mother Annie Bookman-Spigner
Mother Ellis
Towson University’s Debate Team Claims Historic Win
Superintendent Linward Dillard, Memphis, Tenn.
Elder William McMillian
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The Towson team beat Oklahoma in the final round to claim the national title.
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Minnesota, Texas, Wayne State, Cal State Fullerton, Florida, Bard College, Pepperdine, Sacramento State, Vanderbilt, NYU and more. Ameena and Korey also earned a first round bid to the 2014 National Debate Tournament designating them as one of the top 16 teams in the country. The National Debate Tournament takes place in Bloomington, Indiana March 28 through April 1. Additionally, Ruffin placed 12th and Johnson placed 15th in the individual rankings. “We are thrilled and very proud of Ameena and Korey on this amazing accomplishment,” said Towson University College of Fine Arts and Communication Dean Susan Picinich. “Their historic success is exemplified by their passion, dedication and commitment to the art of debate and the leadership of Towson University’s debate coaching staff Amber Kelsie and Ignacio Evans.” “It requires a tremendous amount of work,” says Johnson. “I’m sure I do about four or five hours of preparation and practicing on a normal day.” All of this top-level competition has only honed the students’ skills, according to Johnson. “I think we’ve improved by learning what type of debaters we are, and playing to our strengths,” she says. “I have learned to do tremendous amounts of work while still taking care of myself and not stressing out too much.”
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NOTICE OF APPOINTMENT 2030 Park Ave. NOTICE TO 1st floor CREDITORS 2 bedroom NOTICE TO Apartment UNKNOWN HEIRS 1 bath To all persons newly painted hardinterested in the wood floors estate of: Gas heat Susie Alston fenced in Patio Estate No.103344 renting for Notice is given that: $950.00 monthly Ernestine Blackwell contact BJR Asso8506 Bradford Road ciates 410-542-8118 Silver Spring, MD TYPESET: Wed Mar 26 12:40:02 EDT 2014 20901, was on March 18, 2014 appointed LEGAL NOTICES Personal Representative of the estate of SuDonohoe Construction sie Alston who died on June 24th, 2011 withDonohoe Construction is requesting MBE out a Will. participation on an upcoming bid: Silver Spring Further information Library Residences. We invite interested can be obtained by contractors to attend the following event to reviewing the estate meet representatives of Donohoe file in the office of the Construction and hear more about the project. Register of Wills or by Date and Time: Tuesday, April 1, 2014, 1 PM contacting the per4 PM. Location: ABC Metro Washington Chapsonal representative or ter Headquarters, 6901 Muirkirk Meadows the attorney. Drive, Suite F, Beltsville, MD 20705. For more All persons having any information objection to the TYPESET: Wed Mar 26 12:40:27 EDT 2014 visit www.donohoebids.com. appointment (or to the probate of the decendent’s will) shall file Donohoe Construction their objections with the Register of Wills on Donohoe Construction Company is seeking or before the 18th day cost proposals from Maryland Minority Busiof September 2014. ness Enterprises (MBE) for the Silver Spring Any person having a Library Residences, located in Silver Spring, clain against the Maryland. Proposals are due Thursday decedant must present April 17, @ 3:00 PM. For project details, visit the claim to teh inderwww.donohoebids.com. For more information signed personal reprevisit www.donohoebids.com. sentative or file it with TYPESET: Wed Mar 26 12:38:32 EDT of 2014 the Register Wills with a copy to the undersigned on or beIN THE CIRCUIT fore the earlier of the COURT FOR following dates: BALTIMORE CITY (1) Six months from the date of the decendent’s Case No.: death, except if the 24D14000724 decendent died before IN THE MATTER OF October 1, 1992. Nine Kamal Jermaine months from the date Goodwyn of the decendent’s FOR CHANGE OF death ; or NAME TO (2) Two months after Kamal Jermaine the personal repreDorchy sentative mails or othORDER FOR erwise delivers to the NOTICE BY creditors a copy of this PUBLICATION published notice or The object of this suit is other written notice, to officially change the notifying the creditor name of the petitioner that the claim will be barred unless the from creditor presents the Kamal Jermaine claims within two Goodwyn months from the mailto ing or other delivery of Kamal Jermaine the notice. A claim not Dorchy or filed on or It is this 18th day of presented before that date, or any March, 2014 by the Cir- extension provided by cuit Court for Baltimore law, is unenforceable City, thereafter. Claim forms ORDERED, that pub- may be obtained from lication be given one the Register of Wills. time in a newspaper of Name of newpaper: general circulation in Afro American Baltimore City on or Date of Publication: before the 18th day of March 21, 2014 TYPESET: Mar 19 14:45:47 2014 ErnestineEDT Blackwell April, 2014,Wed which shall Personal warn all inte-rested Representative persons to file an afNOTICE OF True Test Copy fidavit in opposition to Name and Address theAPPOINTMENT relief requested on NOTICE TO of Register of Wills: or before the 5th day of Baltimore City CREDITORS May,NOTICE 2014. TO David B. Allen UNKNOWN HEIRS 111 N Calvert Street Frank M. Conaway To all persons Courthouse East Clerk interested in the Baltimore, MD 21202 estate of: 3/28 Susie Alston Estate No.103344 Notice is given that: Ernestine Blackwell 8506 Bradford Road Silver Spring, MD 20901, was on March 18, 2014 appointed Personal Representative of the estate of Susie Alston who died on June 24th, 2011 without a Will. Further information can be obtained by reviewing the estate file in the office of the Register of Wills or by contacting the perrepresentative TYPESET: Wed Mar 26 sonal 13:04:39 EDT 2014 or the attorney. All persons having any o b j e c t i o n t o FOR t h e BIDS ADVERTISEMENT appointment (or to the probate of theCOMMISSIONERS decenALLEGANY COUNTY dent’s will) shall file CUMBERLAND, MARYLAND their objections with theWATER RegisterPROJECT of Wills on- PHASE III RAWLINGS or before the NO. 18thW-36 day CONTRACT of September 2014. Any by person having County a Sealed bids will be received the Allegany Commissioners until c l a i n April a g a 22, i n s 2014, t t h ein the County Office Com3:00 p.m., local time, Tuesday, decedant present Maryland 21502 for the plex, 701 Kelly Road, Suite 407, must Cumberland, claim III, to teh inder-No. W-36 consisting of a Rawlings Water Project the - Phase Contract signed personal repre- System, 21,000’ of water 491,000 gallon glass lined storage tank, SCADA sentative filewill it then with be opened at 3:00 p.m. by line, and other miscellaneous work.or Bids the Register Wills#100. the Clerk in the Commissioners MeetingofRoom with a copy to the onand or beCopies of the Contract undersigned Specifications Drawings may be obtained fore theand earlier theonly, excluding Saturdays, between the hours of 8:00 a.m. 4:00 of p.m. dates: Sundays, and holidays, atfollowing the Allegany County Department of Public Works from the”Allegany County Commisupon payment of $100.00(1) perSix setmonths payable to the date of the sioners.” An additional $20.00 perdecendent’s set will be charged for shipping and death, Documents except if is the handling. Payment for Contract non-refundable. decendent died before 1, 1992. Nine The Contract DocumentsOctober may be examined at the Allegany County Departmonths from the date ment of Public Works, 701 Kelly Road, Suite 300, Cumberland, Maryland of the decendent’s and the Plans Room of Dodge Baltimore, Baltimore, Maryland and Altoona deathPennsylvania. ; or Builders Exchange, Altoona, Complete Advertisement for (2)are Two monthsonafter Bids and the Bidder’s List available the Allegany County website www.gov.allconet.org. the personal representative mails or otherwisethe delivers to the BIDDERS must purchase contract documents directly from creditors copy of this Allegany County to submit a bidafor consideration. published notice or other written notice, notifying the creditor that the claim will be barred unless the West Baltimore
House for Rent Northwest Baltimore City 3101 Carlisle Ave. Detached Brick Colonial Home (great for family sharing) 4 bedroom 2 1/2 baths A/Cfully renovated Gas Heat Finished Basement renting for $1800.00 monthly Contact BJR Associates 410-542-8118
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1 Col. Inch Up to TYPESET: Wed Mar 19 14:45:47 EDT 2014 LEGAL NOTICES 20 Words
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 Mar 26 12:37:11 EDT 2014 TYPESET: Wed Mar 26 12:36:24 EDT TYPESET: Wed2014 Mar 26 12:36:52 EDT 2014
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True Test Copy Name and Address of Register of Wills: Baltimore City 1. B. Allen 2. David 111 N Calvert Street Courthouse East Baltimore, MD 21202 6. 7.
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 a. Order Nisi $ 60 per insertion b. Small Estates (single publication $ 60 per insertion c. Notice to Creditors 1. Domestic $ 60 per insertion 2. Foreign $ 60 per insertion d. Escheated Estates $ 60 per insertion e. Standard Probates
CIVIL NOTICES a. Name Changes 202-879-1133 b. Real Property
$180.00 per 3 weeks $180.00 per 3 weeks $180.00 per 3 weeks $360.00 per 6 weeks $125.00
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FAMILY COURT 202-879-1212 DOMESTIC RELATIONS 202-879-0157 a. Absent Defendant b. Absolute Divorce c. Custody Divorce
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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 Mar 26 13:03:46 EDT 2014
LEGAL NOTICES
CITY OF BALTIMORE DEPARTMENT OF PUBLIC WORKS BUREAU OF WATER AND WASTEWATER NOTICE OF LETTING Sealed Bids or Proposals, in duplicate addressed to the Board of Estimates of the Mayor and City Council of Baltimore and marked for Stormwater Contract 7764-Race Street Culvert Replacement and Rehabilitation will be received at the Office of the Comptroller, Room 204, City Hall, Baltimore, Maryland until 11:00 A.M. on Wednesday, May 14, 2014. Positively no bids will be received after 11:00 A.M. Bids will be publicly opened by the Board of Estimates in Room 215, City Hall at Noon. The Contract Documents may be examined, without charge, at the Department of Public Works Service Center located on the first floor of the Abel Wolman Municipal Building, 200 N. Holliday Street, Baltimore, Maryland 21202 as of Friday, March 28, 2014 and copies may be purchased for a non-refundable cost of $75.00. Conditions and requirements of the Bid are found in the bid package. All contractors bidding on this Contract must first be prequalified by the City of Baltimore Contractors Qualification Committee. Interested parties should call 410-396-6883 or contact the Committee at 3000 Druid Park Drive, Baltimore, Maryland 21215. If a bid is submitted by a joint venture (”JV”), then in that event, the document that established the JV shall be submitted with the bid for verification purposes. The Prequalification Category required for bidding on this project is C03420 (Precast Concrete Construction) and B02551 (Water Main Construction) Cost Qualification Range for this work shall be $2,000,000.01 to $3,000,000.00 A ”Pre-Bidding Information” session will be conducted at the 300 Abel Wolman Municipal Building, Large Conference Room on April 25, 2014 at 10:00 A.M. Principal Item of work for this project are: Repairs to existing brick/stone masonry storm drain structure. Replacement of 410 linear feet of storm drain with 4 ft. by 12 ft. precast concrete box culvert 6-inch and 10-inch water main replacements. Roadway paving. The MBE goal is 12% The WBE goal is 3% STORMWATER CONTRACT 7764 APPROVED: Bernice H. Taylor Clerk, Board of Estimates APPROVED: Rudolph S. Chow, P.E. Director of Public Works TYPESET: Wed Mar 26 15:10:29 EDT 2014 DBE FIRMS - American-Infrastructure-MD, prime contractor for Enhanced Nutrient Removal at the Back River WWTP bid (City of Baltimore Sanitary Contract No. 882), seeks qualified DBE firms to quote construction, services and supply work items. Detailed pricing due Apr 7. Call 610-584-3402 or email aam.estimating@aamyers.com for scope, plans and specs.
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March 29, 2014 - April 4, 2014 The Afro-American
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ANNE ARUNDEL COUNTY CAREER OPPORTUNITIES Custodial Worker Detention Officer Director Emergency Management Financial Clerk I Financial Reporting Manager Home & Community-Based Older Adults Waiver Program Housing Program Director Information Technology Senior Project Manager Management Aide Management Assistant I Occupational Safety & Health- Specialist Systems Analyst Visit our website at: www.aacounty.org for additional information and to apply online. You may use the Internet at any Anne Arundel County library, or visit our office at 2660 Riva Road in Annapolis. AEO/DF/SFE TYPESET: Wed Mar 26 15:01:21 EDT 2014 Maryland Department of Housing and Community Development (DHCD) Contractual Agency Procurement Specialist II Procurement Officer/Contract Manager Recruitment#: 14-999999-275 Filing Deadline: April 7, 2014, 11:59 pm Salary: $19.44-$25.12 per hour Work that matters. DHCD is a national leader in the financing and development of affordable housing and community development lending. DHCD is seeking a qualified enthusiastic candidate to fill a Procurement Officer/Contract Manager position in its Division of Finance and Administration. This position will assist in the management of major Departmental multi-year contracts and will also prepare and submit Small Business Reserve program reports, acting as the Procurement Officer for certain solicitations. DHCD offers a flexible schedule, advancement opportunities, and potential of permanent employment. Please visit www.jobaps.com/md to read more about these positions and to submit an online application. Please note that minimum qualifications ARE REQUIRED. EOE
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CAREER CORNER TYPESET: Wed Mar 26 15:03:21 EDT 2014
Maryland Department of Housing and Community Development (DHCD) Contractual HCD Community Program Administrator I Community Investment Tax Credit (CITC) Project Manager Recruitment#: 14-999999-253 Filing Deadline: April 7, 2014, 11:59 pm Salary: $20.69-$26.79 per hour (Grade 16/base - step 9) Work that matters. DHCD is a national leader in the financing and development of affordable housing and community development lending. We now have a Contractual HCD Community Program Administrator I position available. This position will manage activities associated with the CITC Program in the Division of Neighborhood Revitalization. Responsibilities include grants administration from application to award, responding to client inquiries and processing tax contributions. Candidate must possess strong interpersonal skills to work with high level public and private sector officials. Please visit www.jobaps.com/md to read more about this position and to submit an online application. Please note that minimum and selective qualifications ARE REQUIRED. TYPESET: Wed EOE Mar 26 12:45:22 EDT 2014 ADMINISTRATIVE ASSOCIATE CARROLL COMMUNITY COLLEGE has a full-time, 12-month position as an Administrative Associate Institutional Advancement. Additional information may be obtained at: www.carrollcc.edu. EOE/M/F
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