Baltimore Afro American Newspaper November 29 2014 by AFRO News

November 29, 2014 - November 29, 2014, www.afro.com

Volume 123 No. 17

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NOVEMBER 29, 2014 - DECEMBER 5, 2014

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Students at Morgan State University held a peaceful protest Nov. 25 that began on campus and ended at the Baltimore Police Department’s Northeastern District station.

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Ferguson Ignites By Zenitha Prince Senior AFRO Correspondent After months of deliberation, a 12-member grand jury on Nov. 24 decided Ferguson, Mo., police officer Darren Wilson was justified in his fatal August shooting of an unarmed African-American teen, triggering protests in the city. Prosecutor Robert McCulloch said the grand jury decided “no probable cause exists” to indict

Wilson on any of the five possible charges in the wake of his Aug. 9 fatal shooting of 18-year-old Michael Brown. Both eyewitness testimony and physical evidence pointed to Brown being the aggressor, including the presence of the teenager’s DNA and fingerprints in the officer’s vehicle and on his gun, he said. And, McCulloch added, several eyewitnesses offered statements that were “inconsistent with other statements they made and also conflicting with the physical evidence.”

“I’m ever mindful that this decision will not be accepted by some and may cause disappoint for others. But all decisions in the criminal justice system must be determined by the physical and scientific evidence and credible testimony corroborated by that evidence, not in response to public outcry or for political expediency,” McCulloch said. “Decisions on a matter as serious as charging an individual with a crime simply Continued on A3

Marion Barry: D.C.’s ‘Mayor for Life’ By James Wright Special to the AFRO Several leaders from across the District reflected on Marion Barry’s life with plenty of reflective and positive thoughts on former D.C. Council member and four-term mayor. Barry died at 1:46 a.m. at the United Medical Center on Nov. 23 after collapsing the previous day while he was leaving Howard University Hospital after visiting his son, Christopher.

Barry served as mayor of the District from 1979-1991 and from 1995-1999. He was elected to the D.C. Board of Education, from 1971-1974 and served on the D.C. Council from 1974-1979 as an at-large member and represented Ward 8 from 1993-1995 and from 2005 to 2014. D.C. Mayor Vincent Gray (D), who had known Barry for over 30 years, said that political icon will be missed. Continued on A4

Quinton Pinkney, City College’s Local Politicians Head Classic ‘63 Point Guard dies at 69 Efforts to Bring Christmas Surrounded by his Team’s Spirit and Family Joy to Those in Need By Zenitha Prince Senior AFRO Correspondent

By Roberto Alejandro Special to the AFRO

Quinton Pinkney, the celebrated Baltimore City College point guard who led the Knights to two consecutive Maryland Scholastic Association (MSA) Division A championships in 1961 and 1962, is being remembered as a stellar athlete, dedicated social worker, loving family man and an all-around extraordinary human being. “Quinton Pinkney was a [heck] of a guy,” summed up Lee Raskin, 69, Pinkney’s City College classmate for three years. Pinkney died Nov. 17 after a weeks-long illness—but not before he and his family were visited and offered other support from his fellow City alum. “I thought that was so extraordinary,” said Pinkney’s widow Joan, of the outpouring of support from people who first met her husband a half-century ago. The show of care and the shared stories and sentiments about her husband buoyed the family’s spirits even in the midst of their loss, she told the AFRO. Continued on A4

With Christmas around the corner, many needy families in Baltimore will struggle to provide the food and gifts so many of us take for granted during the holidays. A number of recent and upcoming events, all headed by the city’s elected officials, are seeking to make the holidays a joyful occasion for more Baltimore’s families. Recently, Councilman Brandon Scott (D-2nd District), joined by a number of the city’s younger elected officials—including incoming state delegates Antonio Hayes (D-40th District), Brooke Lierman (D-46th District), and Cory McCray (D-45th District), Sen. Bill Ferguson (D-46th District), councilpersons Nick Mosby and Eric Costello, as well as incoming Baltimore City State’s Attorney Marilyn Mosby—held his ‘Holiday Bowling for a Cause’ event, which sought to collect gifts for families receiving assistance from the Dept. of Social Services. The event was held at Baltimore’s Shake & Bake Family Fun Center and volunteers collected over 120 gifts for needy families. “What we’ve been trying to do is have all of the young elected officials in the city try to meet more often and do things together, and we thought that it would be a great, great, great opportunity for us to come together and do something fun . . . that benefits people in need in the city of Baltimore, especially around the holidays, but also that lifts up a business or a location in the city that we’re trying to get people to reconnect to,” Scott said. On Dec. 4, the Baltimore City House Delegation, chaired by Del. Curt Anderson (D-43rd District), will hold its second annual ‘Eat, Drink & Continued on A4

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Photo from Baltimore City College Class of 1963 50th Reunion, May 2013. 1963 BCC Basketball team members--Front row: Dennis Wallace, Quinton Pinkney and Alex Gabbin; second row: George Roderick and Marc Rudick

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NATION & WORLD Black Norfolk HS Students Hold Protest Over Allegedly ‘Racist’ Tweet By Assistant Principal

Black students held a protest by walking out of Booker T. Washington High School in Norfolk, Va., after seeing an allegedly racist tweet on the page of assistant principal Amy Strickland, according to ABC13. The tweet, originally posted by “@OrNahhTweets” on Twitter, was a prom picture of seven White females with seven Black males and the caption: “Every White girl’s father’s worst nightmare Or Nah?” Strickland retweeted this posting back in June, but students noticed it recently when they were looking on her page. President of the NAACP Norfolk branch Joe W. Dillard released a statement denouncing Strickland’s decision to retweet the offensive post and said the organization has launched its own investigation. “We hold the administration accountable for their actions,” Dillard said. “We will not tolerate racism in this city and definitely not in the education system. Booker T. Washington High School is a fragile school; and the last thing we need in our community are students walking out of school in protest to racist administrators. “The residents of Norfolk, the students of Norfolk and the Norfolk Branch NAACP ask for quick and just adjudication of Assistant Principal Amy Strickland’s behavior,” he added. Michael LeMelle, a junior at Booker T. Washington told NewsOne, “Those comments should really be kept to herself. I could have been any one of the boys in the picture. And I really don’t see myself, like I said earlier, as anyone’s worst nightmare.” LeMelle, along with a dozen other students, walked out Monday after their grievance was allegedly ignored by their principal and Norfolk Public Schools.

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Strickland, who is currently on administrative leave, said the tweet was something she forwarded to her daughter last June, before she joined the Norfolk School System. She added that the intense media scrutiny and calls for her termination based on her allegedly racist actions are unwarranted and belie her history as an educator in predominantly African-American schools. “The ‘tweet’ appeared to me at the time to have been an attempt at good-natured humor concerning mixed race couples attending a high school prom. Because I have two daughters who in fact did attend proms with African American dates, I casually forwarded the ‘tweet’ last June to one of those daughters,” she explained in a statement. “Media reports suggesting that I am racially prejudiced are one thousand percent false, as my record and my many students, colleagues, friends, and family members who are African American can and, if necessary, will attest,” she added.

Beloved Louisiana Football Coach Slain Over Argument

West St. John High School quarterback coach and former Millsaps College football star Juan Joseph, 27, was shot and killed outside of Allure nightclub in Baton Rouge, La., on Nov. 16, according to news reports. “Information given to us through witnesses was that he was trying to deescalate the situation occurring between his two friends and the driver of the vehicle,” Baton Rouge police Cpl. L’Jean McKneely told The Clarion Ledger. That driver, Lemark Cloud, 25, is being charged with accessory after the fact to second-degree murder, accessory after the fact The alleged gunman to illegal use of a weapon and Kendric Cloud (left) and accessory after the fact to felon in Lemark Cloud possession of a firearm. The alleged gunman, who turned himself in to police, was Lemark’s cousin Kendric Cloud, who was just released from jail on Nov. 5. Kendric has been arrested for connection in the killing of Joseph and charged with second-degree murder, illegal use of a weapon and felon in possession of a firearm. “While in the parking lot inside of a vehicle [Lemark] and one of the witnesses got into a verbal altercation after [Lemark] struck the witness with his vehicle,” the officer noted in the probable cause report according to NewsOne. “The driver then got out of his vehicle and showed a gun to [Joseph] and friends in the process. [Joseph] attempted to diffuse the situation by telling his friends to leave as they weren’t interested in fighting,” the officer continued. “[Kendric], the front seat passenger, then exited the vehicle and shot [Juan Joseph] without cause or justification to do so.” Joseph graduated from Millsaps College in Jackson, Miss., with a bachelor’s degree in marketing and finance, and a master’s in business administration. He won the Conerly Trophy in 2008, an award given out to the top college football player in the state.

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The Afro-American Newspaper invites you to participate in this year’s toy drive! With your help we hope to grant many children their holiday wishes.

Toy Drive Events: Friday Dec. 5 6pm to 9pm

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November 29, 2014 - December 5, 2014, The Afro-American

Wells Fargo #MyUntold Stories By Iyana Parker Special to the AFRO “The greatest untold story is your own, and history isn’t just about what happened in the past because history is made everyday and the world needs to know the modern day stories as well,” says Lisa Frison, The African American Segment Leader of Wells Fargo. With 2013 marking the 150th Anniversary of The Emancipation Proclamation, for the entire year Wells Fargo embraces the arts as a voice for history and culture through a series of 1-minute video synapses’ on a YouTube channel, as African Americans from all over the world share their untold story on what it means to be black in America. “My Untold Story is important to myself as well as Wells Fargo because African American history is

American history and as a company we value diversity and inclusion as a reflection of the community that we serve,” says Lisa Frison. Sponsored by the Kinsey Collection and Wells Fargo as a collaborative unique effort to celebrate the experiences that honors

for everyday people to share their stories involving the rich history of African Americans and their contribution prior to and following The Emancipation Proclamation. The fact that the stories are told and not written down reflects the historical tradition of story telling by the first African Americans brought to America in the 1600’s. Through My Untold stories Wells Fargo hopes to gain a greater understanding and – Lisa Frison appreciation for African American culture but also that the YouTube channel serves as a comfortable and easily relatable vessel where people can be empowered and inspired to tell their own stories.

“I hope people will take the time to go into their own families and learn their own history so that they can share that with the world.” the progress of African Americans. Wells Fargo is excited to present The Kinsey Collection: Shared Treasures of Bernard and Shirley Kinsey as a relevant and important platform

Lisa Frison Courtesy Photo

“I hope people will take the time to go into their own families and learn their own history so that they can share that with the world,” says Lisa Frison. Discover the power of a story by visiting #MyUntold on Youtube.com or http://stories.wellsfargobank.com/ myuntold-sharing-untold-stories-

african-americans/ . “For me, being apart of something so validating to individuals and this collective gives me all the more insight. This experience really gives the black community a platform where they can be heard through telling their personal triumphs and adversities, and to work for a company that sees the value in that is personally and professionally affirming, amazing, and very special,” says Lisa Frison. Wells Fargo also encourages interested individuals to take a piece of The Kinsey Collection with them wherever they may go. Through a limited time offer of personalizing your Wells Fargo debit and or credit card with an art piece hand-selected by the Kinsey family. To embark on this insightful and monumental journey where art and history intersect visit Card Design Studio®

Violent Baltimore Man Faces 25 Yrs. For Dumping Hot Water on Roommate By Jonathan Hunter Special to the AFRO A Baltimore man was sentenced to 25 years in prison Nov. 17 for throwing hot water on his roommate over a dispute regarding breakfast sausages, according to the Baltimore City State’s Attorney Office. Donte Frye, 39, was convicted June 11, 2014, for the incident that took place in April of the previous year at a halfway house. Prosecutors believe that Frye mistakenly

thought that the victim ate his breakfast sausages that morning. Based on his suspicion, Frye “lured the victim from his room in the basement to the top of the basement stairs.” Once the victim unlatched the lock on the door, Frye threw a pot of “boiling salt water at the victims face.” As a result, the victim fell down a flight of stairs, crashing his head into the door. The victim suffered austere burns to his face and neck, which left him hospitalized with second-degree burns and major scarring and defacement.

Prosecutors labeled Frye as a “violent repeat offender.” Frye has had previous convictions, including attempted murder, firearms violations and drug-related offenses. Frye had previously stabbed two other roommates on separate occasions, one of which led to the 2004 attempted murder conviction. Assistant State Attorney Katie Dorian informed the judge of recorded phone calls, in which, she argued, Frye showed no remorse for his actions.

“Donte Frye bragged about stabbing his former roommate and belittled, by comparison, his crime of throwing boiling water on his latest victim,” said Dorian. She added that he mocked the victim during the phone conversation, by stating that the boiling water is not a weapon and that his victim wasn’t bleeding. The court ruled that because of Frye’s criminal history he qualified for the statutory penalty of 25 years without parole. jhunter@afro.com

Ferguson Ignites Continued from A1

cannot be decided on anything less than a complete, critical examination of all the evidence. Anything else is not justice.” The announcement gave vent to pent up tensions that mounted over the past three-and-a-half months and reached fever pitch in the past few days as the Ferguson community awaited the grand jury decision. Brown’s death, for many, became a flashpoint in the local and national conversation about race and the acrimonious relationship between communities of color and police. “We are profoundly disappointed that the killer of our child will not face the consequence of his actions,” Brown’s parents, Lesley McSpadden and Michael Brown Sr. said in a statement, even as they called for peaceful demonstration. “We respectfully ask that you please keep your protests peaceful. Answering violence with violence is not the appropriate reaction.” Brown family lawyer Benjamin Crump, speaking in an interview with CNN just before the announcement, summarized the feelings of disillusionment many in Ferguson and other Black communities are now experiencing, saying, “We are tired of police officers killing young people of color and no one being held accountable,” he said.

Crowds gathered outside the Clayton courthouse immediately began to chant in protest after the announcement, some with hands up in the air, while some hugged and shared tears, as a phalanx of officers in riot gear stood guard. In Ferguson, however, anger was evident, as agitators gathered before the Ferguson Police Department set a police car on fire, threw bottles and rocks and later looted the Ferguson Mart & Liquor and set another building ablaze, live videos from the city showed, even as other demonstrators urged them to nonviolence. Police responded by deploying tear gas into the streets and ordering demonstrators off the streets as armored vehicles slowly moved down the streets. Other protestors gathered on Interstate 44, shutting down one of the main thoroughfares leading to St. Louis. Protest also broke out in other cities across the nation. In Washington, D.C., for example, several residents, of varying nationalities, gathered on U Street in Northwest D.C., the White House and other locations to rally against the verdict, holding signs that call for justice for Michael Brown and yelling “stop racial profiling.” In Baltimore, demonstrations were held all across the city at Morgan State University,

Photo courtesy of the St. Louis American

Numerous cars at an auto dealership in Ferguson were set ablaze following the Grand Jury’s announcement to not indict police officer Darren Wilson in the shooting death of Michael Brown. the University of Baltimore and City Hall. At Morgan, students began their protest at the student center on campus, then marched arm-in-arm through Northeast Baltimore. Authorities delayed the release of the decision for hours. CNN reported that a decision was made by the grand jury earlier in the afternoon, but it was not released until after 8 p.m. Central Time. Patricia Bynes, Democratic committeewoman of Ferguson Township in St Louis County, Mo., told CNN that the delay in a decision Monday was meant to give safety officers enough time to prepare for anticipated unrest in response to the jury’s decision. Live video from Clayton and Ferguson, showed increasingly growing crowds as the night progressed, swelling into the hundreds. Days before the decision, Gov. Jay Nixon declared a state of emergency and activated the Missouri National Guard. And, during a press conference before the decision was announced, he urged that “regardless of the decision, people on all sides show tolerance, mutual respect and restraint.” Ahead of the decision,

news reports also said that Ferguson schools would be closed on Nov. 25. Since Brown was killed Aug. 9, the grand jury— comprised of nine Whites and three African Americans— has been deliberating on whether Brown’s death was a “justifiable homicide” or whether there was “probable cause” to charge Wilson with any or all of several crimes, including: firstdegree murder, second-

degree murder, voluntary manslaughter or involuntary manslaughter. Many within the Ferguson community had wondered at the length of the deliberations given the number of eyewitness who said Wilson opened fire on an unarmed Brown whose hands were up in surrender. Several others questioned why the prosecutor “punted” the decision to the grand jury instead of simply pressing

charges and wondered about the process, including the fact that the prosecutor gave no recommendations to the grand jury. “We have concerns… This grand jury process has been unusual to say the least,” said NAACP President and CEO Cornell William Brooks, speaking on CNN. Added Brown family attorney Benjamin Crump, “Don’t change the rules when it is our children.”

The Afro-American, November 29, 2014 - December 5, 2014

November 29, 2014 - November 29, 2014, The Afro-American

Quinton Pinkney Continued from A1

“It really made me see my husband with new eyes,” Mrs. Pinkney said. “To see how many people admired him—not just as a basketball player but as a person…it made me feel really proud to step out and say, ‘I’m Mrs. Pinkney.’” City alum said they rallied behind their fallen classmate because of who he was and because that’s part of who they are. “There’s a motto at City College and it is ‘City Forever’ and that speaks to the camaraderie and the lasting union [between students, faculty, etc.]…. There’s a strong bond,” said Raskin. Pinkney suffered a stroke right around the time City was celebrating its 175th anniversary in late October. Several of his classmates say they realized a key person was missing from the festivities and that’s when they discovered he was ill. George “Jerry” Phipps, Pinkney’s former coach, said he was in town from Delaware for the anniversary and visited his former student at the hospital. Phipps held Pinkney’s hand and spoke with him for about an hour. “It was a very solemn moment. I really think it meant a lot to him. It became very emotional—tears came to his eyes and he squeezed my hands, and I was crying along with him,” the 85-year-old retired coach said. The bond between coach and student was forged back in late 1960 when Phipps, a new coach at the school, held trials for the different athletic teams and found in a diminutive Pinkney the best point guard for his varsity basketball team, which went on to several championships. “I’ve coached for 35-40 years [and] he was one of the best point guards I had,” Phipps said. “He was small in size but had a great big heart and a competitive spirit. I don’t think we would have done as [well] as we did without him.” Speaking of Pinkney’s death, the coach added, “I told one of my other former players that God needed a point guard and he certainly got an excellent one in Quinton.” Despite his skills as a playmaker the court, Pinkney was not a braggadocio and was a popular, well-respected person in school and later in his community, several supporters said. “He was a pure point guard and general on and off the court,” said Raymond E. Banks Sr., a fellow BCC Hall of Famer and church member. “He had a big heart and pleasant demeanor…. He got along with everybody.” Mrs. Pinkney agreed that her husband was someone who simply loved people, as was evident in the love he unabashedly demonstrated during their 39-year marriage, his relationship with his children and grandchildren and his interaction with others. “He never met anyone that he did not embrace; he could always find the good in someone,” she said. That propensity was an asset in his chosen career as a juvenile counselor and child support enforcement officer with the Maryland Department of Juvenile Services. When he first took the job, she recalled, she asked him why he wanted to work with those “bad kids.” “He said there is no such thing as bad kids but bad situations, and I want to work to change those bad situations,” Mrs.

Photo courtesy of Baltimore Sun, 1962/ Lee Raskin archives

Baltimore City College MSA Basketball Championship team members: George Roderick, left, John Cardwell, Coach Jerry Phipps, Quinton Pinkney and Leroy Brown.

Photo courtesy of Baltimore City College Green Bag 1963/ Lee Raskin archives

Baltimore City College’s 1963 MSA Basketball Championship team photo. Pinkney said, adding it was through sentiments like that her husband helped her gain a new outlook on people. His altruism extended beyond troubled youth, she added. “Women in our neighborhood who did not have husbands, he’d knock on their doors and say, ‘I’m going to the market for my wife, do you need anything?’ or ‘Do you need your grass cut?’” Despite all that, Pinkney was by no means a saint, his wife added, citing his fondness for casino slot machines with a fond chuckle. “He was not a perfect man, but he was a wonderful man,” she said. “I am honored to be his wife.” Quinton Pinkney will be remembered at a memorial service Dec. 1 beginning at 6 p.m. at The Lord’s Church situated on the 5000 block of Park Heights Ave. in Baltimore.

Photo Courtesy Lee Raskin

Photo from Baltimore City College Class of 1963’s 50th Reunion, May 2013. Group of 1963 Baltimore City College Varsity athletes L to R: Coach Bob Oliver, Carl Shelton, Dutch Ruppersberger, Mark Barnett, Quinton Pinkney, Edwin Strickland, David Thomas, David Hare, Lee Raskin, Larry Spector, Kenneth Mason, David Palmer.

Marion Barry Continued from A1

“Marion was not just a colleague but also was a friend with whom I shared fond memories about governing the city,” the mayor said. “He loved the District of Columbia and so many Washingtonians loved him.” On the Nov. 24 edition of Channel 5’s Fox Morning News, Gray said that no concrete plans were in place as of yet to honor Barry. Barry has been credited for putting Blacks and women in higher level management positions in the District government and for strong advocating that up to 45 percent of city contracts be awarded to firms that were Black or that partnered with Black firms and professionals. “He did those things that he thought would make a difference in the lives of people in this city,” Maudine Cooper, Barry’s former chief of staff and director

“Most recently he fought to restore benefits to families on welfare,” the chairman said. “It was on issues like this where he was persistent and passionate and his voice will be missed.” Mendelson said that the council will take all appropriate steps to honor Barry and celebrate his life. One of Barry’s strongest political allies on the council and his political life was D.C. Council member Anita Bonds (D-At Large). “Marion was a political genius, community outreach expert, champion of the over-looked and the left-out while emphasizing inclusion of everyone,” Bonds, who serves as the chairman of the D.C. Democratic State Committee, said. “While his history of accomplishment began decades prior to his entry onto the D.C. political scene representing SNCC in the 1960s, even

Marion Barry’s Funeral Arrangements

Christmas Joy

Dec. 2 – 9 a.m. to Dec. 3, 9 a.m.

Fight Hunger’ event from 5:30 p.m. to 8:30 p.m. at Scoozi’s Restaurant on Falls Road in Baltimore. The price of entry is two canned food items. Proceeds from the happy hour will benefit the Maryland Food Bank. Del. Hayes and Councilman Costello have also partnered with Midtown BBQ and Brew for a holiday toy drive and fundraiser on Dec. 12 at 5 pm, benefiting Toys for Tots and the Sisters Academy of Baltimore. “I often talk about my call to service was witnessing my great grandmother as a child working in the soup kitchens, and things of that nature, and giving—she always told us that giving is better than receiving. . . . So especially at times like this, I think it’s important that we step up and play an active role in the community and give the people that may not otherwise have one, an opportunity to celebrate a big Christmas,” said Hayes. Anyone who brings an unwrapped gift or 10 canned goods will receive a free drink coupon. Ten percent of the evening’s proceeds will be donated to Sisters Academy, an all– State Del. Antonio Hayes girl school focused on leadership opportunities for young women. “They’ve been doing an awesome job of exposing young women to different aspects of business, entrepreneurship, leadership, government and so and so forth, and so they’re partnering with us on this endeavor,” said Hayes.

Dec. 3 – 10 a.m. to 3 p.m.

Continued from A1

“I often talk about my call to service was witnessing my great grandmother as a child working in the soup kitchens, and things of that nature, and giving—she always told us that giving is better than receiving. . . .

Nadeau (D-Ward 1) interacted with Barry during the election season and notes that she will not be able to serve with him on the council. “Barry was a larger than life presence in the District of Columbia, and to our entire nation, first as a civil rights activist and later as a dedicated public servant who spoke often about the power of everyday people to come together to change the world,” she said. Carol Schwartz, a Republican D.C. Council member, ran against Barry for mayor in 1986 and 1994. While losing both times, Schwartz served with Barry on the D.C. Council from 2005-2009 and were amicable. “We were dear friends and there for each other over the years,” Schwartz said. “Marion personified D.C. and his passing is a great loss to all of us, especially those most in need whom he

Marion Barry’s body will lay in state at the Wilson Building, located at 1350 Pennsylvania Avenue, N.W. D.C. A community motorcade will commence from the Wilson Building through SE ending at Temple of Praise, located at 700 Southern Ave S.E. for a eulogy.

Dec. 4 – 9 a.m.

Public eulogy and ceremony at Walter E. Washington Convention Center, located at 801 Mt Vernon Pl. N.W. D.C. government will close on Dec. 4. of Washington’s Office of Human Rights and Minority Business Opportunity Commission told the AFRO, referring to his tenacity in creating opportunity for Blacks in D.C. D.C. Mayor-elect Muriel Bowser (D), who served on the D.C. Council with Barry and was often seen with him at campaign events during the recent general election season, said that Barry “has been a part of my family for decades, and will continue to be an example of me and so many others.” Bowser’s parents, Joe and Joan Bowser, served as Ward 5 coordinators for Barry’s successful run for mayor in 1978. Barry was serving as a Bowser transition co-chair, along with former mayors Sharon Pratt, Anthony Williams and Adrian Fenty. D.C. Council Chairman Phil Mendelson (D) said that Barry “was a voice on the council for human rights and civil rights.”

today he remains the city’s favorite politician and truly loved by most and many across the nation.” One of Barry’s hallmarks as mayor was the D.C. Summer Youth Employment Program and that is how D.C. Council member Kenyan McDuffie (D-Ward 5) remembers his late colleague. “Marion Barry touched so many lives, including my own,” McDuffie, who is the council’s chairman pro tem, said. “Growing up in the District, I vividly recall stories of his political successes as well as his personal struggles. As a teenager, I benefitted from his summer jobs program, especially his Mayor’s Youth Leadership Institute.” McDuffie said that he “appreciated his [Barry’s] generosity of time and spirit, and am honored to have served alongside him on the council.” D.C. Council member-elect Brianne

AFRO File Photo

served. In spite of his foibles and having run against him, I loved and appreciated Marion Barry Jr., and will miss him.” E. Faye Williams, national chair of the National Congress of Black Women, said she was glad Barry decided to title the last chapter of his autobiography “still standing,” a speech she wrote for him years ago. She said Barry should be credited with making a lot of progress in the city. “The thing that I credit him for is getting a lot of the positive things started in this city,” Williams said. Andre Byers, a Ward 8 resident and an expert on District economic development, spoke highly of his late council member. “Marion Barry was unapologetic and had a brilliant mind,” he said. “Many people in public life are afraid to speak their mind but not Barry. He said what needed to be said and his courage is going to be missed.”

The Afro-American, November 29, 2014 - November 29, 2014

November 29, 2014 - December 5, 2014, The Afro-American

Walmart Gears Up for Days of Black Friday Sales By AFRO Staff With Christmas around the corner, shoppers are looking to find ways to stretch their holiday budgets as far as they can go. In an attempt to better serve customers this holiday season, Walmart has extended their Black Friday sales period from Thursday through Monday, with various sales on different days to help those holiday dollars go further. The U.S. Dept. of Commerce recently revised it’s economic growth figures for the third quarter, announcing a 3.9 percent increase in gross domestic product, up four points from its advance estimate of 3.5. Gallup reports that U.S. adults are planning on spending an average of $720 on holiday gifts this year, up slightly from the $704 average from last year’s survey. Shoppers at the Port Covington Walmart, however, were in search of savings. With many telling the AFRO that they were looking to spend less this year, not more. “I’m hoping to spend less. Way much less,” said Monique Gilliam, who stopped to share her holiday spending plans with the AFRO. “That’s why I’m doing Black Friday, so I don’t have to do it after the holidays or before the holidays,

Photo by AFRO staff

Black Friday sales items on display at the Walmart in Port Covington. because (prices) tend to go up.” “I think this year I’m going to spend a little less,” said Lisa Alves at she stopped to speak with us at Walmart’s Port Covington location. “I spent a lot last year so I’m spending a lot less this year.” Alves says that she comes out for Black Friday sales every year, despite the infamous frenzy that generally accompanies the event. “I”m going to come out at 6 (p.m.) but if I don’t get what I need I’m going to get the ticket—you know they give you the voucher, the guarantee—and I will get the guarantee.” Walmart is looking to extend Black Friday deals to those shoppers who are less committed to getting to the store on one of the busiest shopping days of the year. Not only will ‘Black Friday’ extend from Thanksgiving Thursday through Monday, Dec. 1, Walmart has increased its inventory

of Black Friday sales items as well using their logistical advantage to guarantee stock, including a one-hour guarantee for any customer in the store between 6 p.m and 7 p.m. on Thanksgiving day who is looking to purchase Black Friday sales items. “Black Friday is no longer about waking up at the crack of dawn to stand in long lines and hope for the best,” said Duncan Mac Naughton, chief – Duncan Mac Naughton merchandising officer of Walmart U.S., adding later, “We’re using our entire supply chain to deliver for our customers in a way no other retailer can.” That will be a relief for Carlene Lewis, who says she has avoided Black Fridays in the past because of a distaste for being trampled. “I don’t like the chaos, the controversy of getting knocked over for something that’s still going to be on sale,” said Lewis.

“Black Friday is no longer about waking up at the crack of dawn to stand in long lines and hope for the best.”

Photo by AFRO staff

Monique Gilliam tells the AFRO that she is looking to take advantage of Black Friday deals in the hopes of saving more money than last year.

Security Guards Protest Allegedly Unfair Labor Practices in Harbor East By Roberto Alejandro Special to the AFRO Security guards fighting for their right to organize went on strike in Harbor East to protest what they said were unfair labor practices by their employer, Brantley Security. Arbitrary disciplinary actions on the job, refusal to recognize the guard’s right to form a union, retaliation for attempting to organize and poor working conditions were among the grievances aired at the demonstration. David Carter, a security guard who started working for Brantley about 11 months ago, said he decided to join the organizing effort—being led by organizers for 32BJ SEIU, a property service workers union—after seeing a fellow guard be interrogated in the aftermath of a security breach that occurred after she was left to control a crowd of 150 people with just one other guard. Carter says that although company policy supposedly requires a verbal warning for a first offense, followed by a written warning and then a final, this is not what happened in the case of his colleague. “They gave her a final warning for her first offense,” said Carter. “It wasn’t a verbal, or written, or anything, straight final. And right then and there that just triggered an alarm off in my head like, ‘OK, we have to do something.’” Carter said guards are routinely tasked with controlling large crowds with little assistance and subject to arbitrary disciplinary action if something goes wrong. The AFRO sought information about the protestors’ working conditions and wages, two issues raised in the press release

announcing the demonstration, but union officials prevented the workers from addressing those issues, saying they feared retaliatory firings. Jaime Contreras, vice president of 32BJ SEIU, did, however, address those issues when he spoke to the gathered workers at the demonstration. “We’re going to show Brantley that we’re not going to

tolerate unfair labor practices against the officers that work so hard every day to maintain their families on poverty wages. . . . They don’t pay you enough. And when you try to organize so you can fight for a better wage or a better standard of living, what do they do? They break the law and violate your rights,” he said. ralejandro@afro.com

The Afro-American, November 29, 2014 - December 5, 2014

COMMUNITY CONNECTION Baltimore County, Md.

Baltimore County Public Library to Host Holiday Toy Drive Join the Baltimore County Public Library and help less fortunate children and families in the community. Bring a new, unwrapped toy to any branch or special program between Nov. 28 and Dec. 11. The gifts will be donated to various local charities benefitting the community. The toy drive is part of BCPL’s Connecting the Community initiative. “The Baltimore County Public Library is one of the most important and wonderful resources that you have at your disposal,” said BCPL Director Paula Miller. “We serve over 800,000 people. To have that much impact on people’s lives and on the communities that we are in is wonderful.” For more information, visit: www.bcpl.info.

Belcamp, Md.

Jazz Musician Kim Waters Celebrates 25 Years Join jazz artist Kim Waters as he celebrates 25 years in the music industry. The anniversary party will be held Nov. 29 at Walter’s Edge Event Center, located at 4687 Millennium Drive in Belcamp, Md. at 7:30 p.m. A portion of the proceeds will be donated to charity. For more information, call: 410-272-4849.

for the youth encouraging positive behavior and empowerment. The holiday tour assists in efforts to create programs for troubled youth in many cities. Bring Your Toys for Tots on Your Commute Join the Maryland Transportation Authority (MDTA) Police, MDTA staff and the U.S. Marine Corps Reserves in the national Toys for Tots campaign at the Baltimore Harbor crossings. Since 1990, MDTA employees have collected more than 138,000 toys from customers of the toll facilities and the Port of Baltimore. From Wednesday, Dec. 3 – Friday, Dec. 5, from 6 to 9 a.m. and from 3 to 5 p.m. daily, employees will collect new, unwrapped toys at the Baltimore Harbor and Fort McHenry tunnels (I-895, I-95) and the Francis Scott Key Bridge (I-695) and also at the Bay Bridge (US 50/301), the Gov. Harry W. Nice Memorial Bridge (US 301), the Thomas J. Hatem Memorial Bridge (US 40), the Intercounty Connector (ICC)/MD 200 and the Dundalk Marine Terminal. Toys collected at the Baltimorearea facilities will be given to the U.S. Marine Corps Reserves base in northeast Baltimore for distribution. For more information on the MDTA’s collection efforts, visit mdta.maryland.gov.

Baltimore, Md.

‘You Gotta Believe in Me’ Holiday Tour Aims to Uplift Baltimore Youth Ebony Archer, artist, motivational speaker, and youth philanthropist will host a community event, Kim Waters The “Gotta Believe in me Holiday Tour” from Dec. 1-6, in Baltimore, Md. at the Angel Events Center located at 1810 Cherry Hill Road. The tour is designed to provide an outlet and platform for youth, young adults and performers of positive influence to join in motivating inspiration to society and give optimistic change during the holiday season. The event will include live performances from artists within the Baltimore area and abroad. During the event, it will feature youth summits, communitynetworking events, a Christmas craft & shopping event with various vendors, and workshops

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November 29, 2014 - December 5, 2014 The Afro-American

The Ferguson Verdict

EDITORIAL

Hold the Police Accountable; Don’t Burn the Block Down Time and time again we destroy our own neighborhoods when something terrible happens. We did it in Detroit, we did in Los Angeles, we did it in Baltimore. And now, we’re doing it again in Ferguson now that Darren Wilson was not indicted in the shooting death of Michael Brown. Let’s be clear. We are not the only ones who riot. Winning a basketball or hockey championship is often reason enough for people to take the streets and start destroying things. But come on. It’s not right then and it’s not right now. Peaceful protesters took to the streets all across the country from South Los Angeles to Philadelphia. But when Brown’s stepfather Louis Head started yelling “Burn this [expletive deleted] down” while pointing at police headquarters right after the announcement that Wilson would not be indicted, an already anxious crowd began to destroy stores, fire guns and burn cars. The facts of the case are horrifying: Michael Brown, an 18 year-old unarmed teenager, was

gunned down by Darren Wilson on a hot summer day. According to Wilson’s recently released grand jury testimony, after struggling with Brown through the police car window he fired his weapon multiple times. When Brown began to depart, for reasons unclear, he turned around and allegedly charged at the officer. Brown wound up dead on the street and remained there, uncovered, for hours. Brown joins the list of unarmed young Black men killed by police officers including Akai Gurley, Amadou Diallo and Sean Bell. As Jeffrey Mittman, executive director of the American Civil Liberties Union of Missouri, said in a statement after the grand jury decision, “The grand jury’s decision does not negate the fact that Michael Brown’s tragic death is part of an alarming national trend of officers using excessive force against people of color, often during routine encounters. Yet in most cases, the officers and police departments are not held accountable.” It’s time to reverse this national trend. We must start holding the police accountable for these crimes. Burning down the block is a frivolous waste and is clearly not the answer.

COMMENTARY

Marching to Freedom on a Treadmill Here’s a sobering statement from Economic Policy Institute (EPI): “Fifty years ago (2013), the unemployment rate was 5% for Whites and 10.9% for Blacks. Today, it is 6.6% for Whites and 12.6% for Blacks.” Can you believe that? We are at the same relative position now as we were when MLK gave his famous “I Have a Dream” speech in 1963. Part of the problem is that we have been waiting to be rescued rather than doing everything we can to rescue ourselves. Employment is very high on the fictional Black agenda, so much so that during our protests James Clingman we have to say it three times: Jobs! Jobs! Jobs! While we have certainly protested and begged for jobs from politicians, our tepid and passive solutions have not moved us one inch toward our goal of lowering the Black rate of unemployment. Why? The last march for jobs was called three years ago by Marcherin-Chief Al Sharpton during the run-up to the 2012 presidential election. Sharpton, who was flanked by leaders of the National Education Association, NAACP, and other groups, was quoted in the Washington Post as saying, “We will bring forth the masses who have not been heard in the midst of the jobs debate…As the president fights for a jobs act, as super-committees meet, they need to hear ‘marching feet.’ This is to send a message to Congress.” Marching feet? Congress must have had earplugs on that day. If they did get the message, they did nothing to improve the situation two years later, according to the EPI report. Many of our marches have been tantamount to walking on a treadmill, burning energy but not permanently moving forward. Sharpton went on to say, “The march, which will count on the large ranks of union members, will bring ‘drama’ to the jobs debate. His use of the word, “drama” reminds me of what John Henrik Clarke said about Sharpton during a debate with Cornell West at Ohio State University. Clarke stated, “We have to make a distinction between these academic vaudeville shows and those who give us knowledge. We cannot accept the performers as fighting for our liberation. We can enjoy the performance, but don’t think it moves us forward, except

the bank account of the performer. I like Al Sharpton personally because he is something that is useful; he is an alarmist. An alarmist solves no problem; he will call attention to it and won’t let us leave the agenda until someone else solves the problem. So [alarmists] serve a purpose with their big mouths… Alarmists won’t let you sleep.” All we get, and unfortunately settle for, is “drama” when it comes to solving our problems. We love to march and make symbolic statements, but we stop there; we never follow up with appropriate action. This is why I propose that we gather 1 million or more conscious Black people who are willing to do several things in response to the problems we face in this country. We must have people who are willing to pool their votes and their dollars to build and grow businesses. We must elect politicians who, prior to an election, will state very clearly and publicly, their commitment to fight for issues specific to Black people, just as other groups get politicians for whom they vote to support and fight for their issues. A collective of 1 million conscious Black people could positively affect the jobs issue by forming an equity or loan fund to establish more Black businesses. We could also help grow those businesses by collectively supporting them with our consumer dollars, thereby, creating jobs and lowering the Black unemployment rate. One million conscious Black voters could leverage our votes to help elect the politicians who will work in our best interests, no matter what color their skin is, what party they belong to, or what political label they wear. It’s all about interests, not parties or skin color. A national group of 1 million could also stimulate the formation of local coalitions to accomplish the same goals in cities across

this nation. No more need to go to Washington and march about something we can do right in our own backyards. No more spending our money, the majority of which goes to non-Black businesses, to travel distances to “protest” and create “drama” around issues we can solve ourselves. Enough of that nonsense! We must coalesce around efforts that make sense, efforts that are practical and beneficial, and efforts that will get us off the treadmill and keep us from marching in place for the next fifty years. Join the one million conscious voters, and let’s start solving our own problems and creating our own jobs, with our own dollars. 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.

Will Larger CBC Translate into Greater Clout? Even though the next Congress, which starts on January 6, will feature 48 African Americans, the largest number in history, the question is: Can they get anything done in a Congress that’s been gridlocked for four straight years? But since most Black members will serve as members of the minority party in the House, most of their power to control federal policy and billions of dollars will be decided by compromise as they serve on major committees. Though members of the Congressional Black Caucus will not control the policy agenda, they will still play a key role in those decisions. For the first time in history, seven members of the Congressional Black Caucus will serve as Ranking Members of major House Committees for the upcoming 114th Congress. Why does this matter? Because even a member in the minority in the hyper-partisan House, which has been controlled by Republicans since 2010, is going to have a seat at the table. Much of what is done behind the scene goes unreported by press corps fixated on the political cat fight of the moment. And in the case of the CBC, the Black Press is the only place where their work is likely to be covered. November 19, was one of the biggest days for the Caucus since four Black Committee Chairman were christened in January 2009. Seven Black members of the House – Reps. John Conyers (D-Mich.), Maxine Waters (D-Calif.), Corrine Brown (D-Fla.), Eddie Bernice Johnson (D-Texas), Bobby Scott (D-Va.), Bennie Thompson

Lauren Victoria Burke

(D-Miss.), and Elijah Cummings (D-Md.) will have a seat at the legislative table next year as ranking committee members. Additionally, two of the most powerful members of the Black Caucus, Reps. Sanford Bishop (D-Ga.) and Chaka Fattah (D-Penn.), are ranking members on subcommittees on the most powerful committee in the House: Appropriations. From those positions they will have a say in doling out several hundred billion dollars every fiscal year. “Politics is about who gets what when and how and being at the table is essential to determining that those resources get where they need to be,” Rep. Bishop told the The Root in an interview. “It is my hope that we are able to use the appropriations process and the policy making process here in Congress in a bipartisan way that will benefit all the American people,” Bishop said in the interview. In an effort to show they can actually govern, Republicans in the 114th Congress are expected to pass legislation rather than repeat another four years of their core strategy: Gridlock. The last two years witnessed the least productive U.S. House in history in terms of bills passed, all under Republican control. Even with the well-publicized gridlock over the last four years, Rep. Fattah was able to get the Urban Jobs Act through the House after a compromise was reached with House Republicans. The bill’s passage, which was a rare example of bipartisanship, received almost no press. The gridlock strategy was employed by House Republicans in hopes of preventing President Obama from getting anything done.

But going into the 2016 presidential campaign, Republicans are expected to show they can produce actual legislative results in what would be a huge strategic change. As part of its normal process, the Congressional Black Caucus elected a new Chairman yesterday, Rep. G.K. Butterfield (D-N.C.). Though he plans to outline a detailed strategy for the Caucus in January, he spoke in general terms about the policy focus he’ll have next Congress. “The economy is not working for African Americans. Some are succeeding, but the vast majority of African Americans are not succeeding. It’s our job as legislators to try and enact policies that will enact policies that will move the needle – whether it’s with a coalition of Democrats or Republicans,” Butterfield told The Root. The new chairman will inherit the largest Congressional Black Caucus in history at a time when presidential politics will play a big role in the narrative. Whether he and the Black Caucus can navigate the games of gridlock will depend on how afraid Republicans are of being tagged as the “party of no” as their presidential candidates tour the country. Chances are those politics will be the real reason the GOP will suddenly be interested in moving legislation during President Obama’s last two years in office. Lauren Victoria Burke is freelance writer and creator of the blog Crewof42.com, which covers African American members of Congress. She Burke appears regularly on “NewsOneNow with Roland Martin” and on WHUR FM, 900 AM WURD. She worked previously at USA Today and ABC News.

The opinions on this page are those of the writers and not necessarily those of the AFRO. Send letters to The Afro-American, 2519 N. Charles St. Baltimore, MD 21218 or fax to 1-877-570-9297 or e-mail to editor@afro.com

The Afro-American, November 29, 2014 - December 5, 2014

Debt Collectors Target the Elderly By Charlene Crowell NNPA Columnist For succeeding generations, retirement has been the time when older Americans reaped the benefits of their years in the workplace. Oftentimes at ceremonies, workers would receive a gold watch – a symbol of their entry into retirement and an era of “golden years.” Today, few if any count on getting a gold watch. And what should have been the proverbial golden years are often tarnished by a struggle to keep pace with rising costs of living. These financial challenges are often worsened by aggressive debt collectors who hound older Americans about debts they may not even owe. Sometimes, these collectors threaten to garnish their limited benefits. “It’s increasingly common for older Americans to carry debts into their retirement years, and consumers living on fixed incomes often struggle to pay off these debts,” said Richard Cordray, director of the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau (CFPB). “Older Americans deserve to be treated with the respect they have earned.” According to the CFPB, debt collection is a multi-billion industry with more than 4,500 firms nationwide. Moreover, consumers have submitted more complaints to the CFPB about debt collection than mortgages, credit cards or any other financial product or service. A recent analysis of complaints received by the CFPB from July 10, 2013 until Sept. 30 of this year revealed that one out of three was about debt collection. Threats to garnish federal benefits such as Social Security or Veterans Administration benefits are particularly distressing to older consumers when these items are their primary sources of income. Similarly, older consumers with memory loss or other cognitive impairments are particularly vulnerable to harassment and scams. While some creditors may collect their own debts, others hire third-party debt collectors. To make matters even more complicated, a single debt may be sold multiple times to different debt buyers. A third of the complaints received by CFPB revealed that consumers could not identify the original source of the debt. Regardless of the source of debt, many older consumers also experienced repeated attempts by collectors to pursue debts of deceased family members –

despite them having no responsibility for the debt. For others, even after judicial probate was concluded, or the funds from the deceased have been exhausted, harassing phone calls still continued. Medical debt, another frequently-reported complaint, involved collectors pressing for payments at the same time the consumer is trying to resolve medical billing disputes and questioning whether the item in question is eligible for insurance coverage. In other cases, debt collectors make repeated attempts to collect on bills already covered by insurance. The confusion and frustration felt by consumers is also aggravated by collectors calling over bills appearing on their credit report when no prior attempt communicated the debt in question by the original creditor. Earlier this year, in a separate report, the Center for Responsible Lending (CRL) found scant regulation allows profiteers to take advantage of financially-distressed consumers. Many times debt collectors secure court judgments for debts that may not even be owed. A 2009 Federal Trade Commission analysis of 3.9 million consumer accounts, found only 6 percent of the accounts came with any documentation. To help older consumers to cope with debt collectors, CFPB released an advisory that includes specific things consumers should do when faced with a debt collector. It encourages consumers to verify a debt claim before promising or paying it. In instances in which a consumer knows a debt is not their own, CFPB’s advice is to dispute all inaccurate claims. The advisory also includes sample letters to help consumers formalize their concerns. For CRL, the growth of debt collection issues is of particular concern. “American consumers are profoundly and negatively affected by wrongful debt collection tactics on a daily basis,” said Lisa Stifler, a CRL policy counsel. “No one should be forced to deal with illegal collection activity, and debt collectors should not be allowed to exploit seniors’ vulnerability in order to make a profit.” No one – and especially our older Americans — deserves to become financial prey. As families look forward to the holiday season, remember to help older loved ones remain free from profiteers. Love them enough to help them defend their financial rights. Charlene Crowell is a communications manager with the Center for Responsible Lending. She can be reached at Charlene.crowell@responsiblelending.org.

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This month, XFINITY® catches up with R&B’s latest gem – Ledisi. Get concert highlights, photos and Ledisi-inspired videos, all leading up to the simulcast presentation of TV One’s HelloBeautiful.com Interludes LIVE!: Ledisi. Enjoy an exclusive performance and interview with the soulful songstress herself. Show premieres November 29th at 10/9c on TV One and at CelebrateBlackTV.com.* *Check local listings for date and time confirmation.

November 29, 2014 - December 5, 2014, The Afro-American

The Maryland Court of Appeals Court House in Annapolis, Md. was jammed packed with judges, legal consultants, retired judges, former law clerks, attorneys, friends and family members to watch the unveiling of the portrait of The Honorable Robert M. Bell, Chief Judge

(Retired), Maryland Court of Appeals. In 1991, Judge Bell was appointed chief judge of the state’s highest court, the Court of Appels, by Governor Parris Glendening. He was the only active judge in the state to have served at least four years on all four levels of Maryland’s judiciary, and the first African-American to be named the state’s chief jurist. After more than 38 years of public service, Judge Bell retired on July 6, 2013, his 70th birthday. Judge Bell lectures frequently at schools, community groups, churches, and bar association meetings.

Judge Sylvester Cox, Hon Mary Ellen Barbera, Chief Judge, Maryland Court of Appeals, Judge Barry Williams

Photos by Dr. A. Lois De Laine

Martin O’Malley, Governor, State of Maryland, Simmie Knox, artist and Hon. Robert Bell, Chief Judge (Retired), Maryland Court of Appeals

Doris Cole and honoree Judge Bell Phobe Haddon, Judge Clayton Greene, Alice Pinderhughes, Judge Sheila T. Adams

Judge Michael Reed, Jai Belford Valentine, Carol Ann Smith

Cherly Hitchcock, Dr. Davis Wilson, president, Morgan State University, Honoree Judge Bell, Simmie Knox, artist, Roslyn Smith Judge Annice Wagner, Joe Louis Bell, brother, honoree Judge Robert Bell

Judge Joyce Baylor-Thompson, District Court, Crystal Queen, former law clerk to Judge Bell, Terri Charles, Office of Communications

Angelita Plemmer Williams, director of communications, MD Judiciary and Judge Arrie Davis, retired, Court of Special Appeals

Elliott Wiley, Carolyn Fugett, mother of Reginald Lewis, Judge Robert Bell

Cecelia Royster, Rosalynne Atterbeary, Susan Fowler, Sheila Harley Washington

Avolon Joseph, Columbia, Md. Chapter, Diane Bell McKoy, Baltimore Chapter

Elizabeth Clark Adams and Carvella Beavers

Veronica P. Jones, former law clerk and legal counsel, Rudy Brioche', former law clerk, Camelia Mazard

Friends William and Mattie Mumby with honoree Judge Robert Bell

Kimberleigh De Laine with Hon. Robert M. Bell, Chief Judge (retired) Maryland Court of Appeals

Beverly Carter, Hon Robert Bell, Connie Langford, Judge Marcella Holland

Rayna Woodford, Dr. Nathaniel Knox, Jo Emily Knox

Constance Rotan, Ray Moseley, Elizabeth Mosely

On Sunday, Nov. 9, the Columbia Md. Chapter of The Links hosted its 9th Annual “All That Jazz” Brunch and Silent Auction at Martin’s West. Great music, delicious food and friends gathering to support a great cause: a fundraiser to benefit the Links Foundation and support scholarships and community service projects in Howard County. Robin Nelson Steele serves as president of the Columbia (Md.) Chapter, The Links.

Karyne Jones, Pamela Holt, Barbara Jarvis-Carr

Allen Eason, Paula Eason, Carmesha Young

Donna Hill Staton, Dr. Terri L. Hill, DelegateElect, Rosemary Davis, Linda Grant Wells Alexandra Conway and George Wilson

Marilyn Collins, Jim Collins, Sandy Days, John Days

Paris Estep, Angela Wright, Jim Fitzpatrick, Helen Fitzpatrick

Jocelyn Gainers, Virginia Watkins, Lanise Stevenson, Donna Stevenson Robinson

Mozelle Fisher, Frenzela Credle, Beulah Parker Photos by Dr. A. Lois De Laine

Diane B. Martin, Katrina Robinson, Tonia Lee, Judge C. Yvonne Holt-Stone

J. Moy West, Jewel Herndon, Imani West, Jean Lewis

Alice Cox, Doris Holmes, Flossie Johnson, organizer, Doris Cooke, Dorothy Johnson, Patapsco River Links

The Afro-American, November 29, 2014 - December 5, 2014

he annual Fall Founders Day Convocation at Morgan State University was observed differently this year as the University paid tribute to Life and Legacy of Carl J. Murphy, the first African-American of the Board of Trustees of Morgan State College and chief architect of its expansion plan. The Fine Arts Building and auditorium are named in his honor. Carl J. Murphy was the founder of the Baltimore Afro-

American newspaper where under his leadership, the paper became one of the largest circulating, most influential and most financially successful AfricanAmerican newspapers in the country. Best-selling author, political analyst, and keynote speaker, Juan Williams spoke to an auditorium full of Murphy family members, Morgan staff and supporters and guests. Rev. Dr. Marie Murphy Phillips Braxton, granddaughter

of Carl J. Murphy and Rev. Dr. Francis “Toni” Draper welcomed the bust of Carl J. Murphy “back home” [the University]. Mr. Murphy also received the Doctorate of Humane Letters (posthumously). Outstanding Alumni Awards were also presented to faculty members from each of the university schools and the Dr. Iva Jones Medallion Mantle and the Dr. Sandye Jean McIntyre International Award were also awarded.

The bust of Carl J. Murphy is "Back Home where it belongs" says Rev. Dr. Marie Murphy Phillips Braxton,right

Latichia Perine, Student Regent, Rev. Dr. Frances Draper, Kweisi Mfume, chiarman, Board of Regent, Juan Williams, keynote speaker, Dr. David Wilson, president, Morgan State University

Leslie Harris, owner and managing principal of HarrisKupfer Architects receives the Outstanding Alumni Award from the School of Architecture and Planning Mark Elom Tuani, Operations Manager of the Hertz Corporation in Washington, D.C. receives the Outstanding Alumni Awards from the Earl G. Graves School of Business and Management

Dr. Nykia L. Jackson, project manager and Test and Evaluation Engineer at The Johns Hopkins University Applied Physics Laboratory, receives the Outstanding Alumni Award from The Clarence J. Mitchell School of Engineering

Dr. Darlene Spitzer-Antezana, professor of History and Chairperson of the Department of History, Political Science, Geograpy and Anthropology at Prince George's Community College, receives the Outstanding Alumni Award from the College of Liberal Arts

Rev. Dr. Frances Murphy Draper, granddaughter, Robert Murphy Matthews, grandson, Rev. Dr. Marie Murphy Phillips Braxton, granddaughter of Carl J. Murphy

Dr. Rommel J. Miranda, Associate Professor of Physics, Astronomy and Geosciences at Towson University receives the Outstanding Alumni Awards from the School of Education and Urban Studies

Carl J. Murphy's descendants are Charles Perkins, Nyjai Muhammad, Quortney Mariah and Rev. Dr. Ronald E. Braxton

Laura Phillips Byrd, Rebecca Phillips, Derek Braxton Rev. Dr. Marie Murphy Phillips Braxton makes a presentation to Morgan State University on behalf of the Carl J. Murphy family

Andrea Draper Evans, Blake Evans, Morgan Peck, Paige Evans and Ryan Evans Photos by Dr. A. Lois De Laine

Morgan's Faculty and Administrative Staff

Several generations of the Carl J. Murphy family were in attendance to celebrate the life and legacy of Carl J. Murphy

November 29, 2014 - December 5, 2014, The Afro-American

ARTS & CULTURE

‘25 to Life’ Film Review

Out-of-the-Closet Documentary Chronicles Clandestine Life of Brother Hiding His HIV Status By Kam Williams

When William Brawner was 18 months-old, his singlemom Linda left him in the care of a suspicious male babysitter against her better judgment while she went off to class at Howard University. Upon returning home, she found her baby so scalded by hot water that he needed numerous skin grafts and blood transfusions. Doctor’s didn’t buy the babysitter’s story that it was all the result of an accident. And the proof in the pudding rested in the fact that the creep quickly slipped out of town before subsequently disappearing from the radar entirely. Unfortunately for William, this tragedy transpired in the early Eighties at the dawn of the AIDS epidemic, well before the medical community became aware of how to protect the country’s tainted blood supply. Consequently, he contracted HIV from one of his transfusions. Because of the social stigma then associated with AIDS, his mother decided to studiously hide Bill’s positive HIV status over the course of his childhood. Furthermore, since the guilty woman had no idea how long he might live, she also proceeded to spoil him rotten, admittedly raising a monster the rest of the world was going to have to deal with. For, Bill eventually blossomed into quite the handsome ladies’ man. And while he did inform his high school sweetheart, Natasha, that he was infected, he never told any of the 20+ classmates he slept with when he followed in his mother’s footsteps to Howard. He even had unprotected sex with some of those sisters, and was almost outed by his angry ex-girlfriend who sent an anonymous letter to the President of the University, warning, “Bill Brawner is HIV+ and infecting everyone at your school.” But the roaming Romeo’s culpable response was to never again share his status with anyone, though he would remain promiscuous. Finally, in 2006, William confessed to his shameless behavior by going on the radio to reveal to the world once and for all that he was HIV+. In addition, he founded a Haven

Courtesy Photo

25 to Life won Grand Jury Prize for Best Documentary at the 2014 American Black Film Festival. Youth center, a healthcare facility offering infected teens treatment and counseling. Directed by Mike Brown, 25 to Life is reverential biopic that revisits all of the above, opting to present Bill in a positive light despite his risky behavior with a string of sex partners. Granted, it’s great that he ultimately embraced honesty and even settled down and got married, but it would’ve been nice to hear from his former conquests to learn how they felt about being used and whether they’ve tested positive for the AIDS virus. A cautionary tale about a charming predator’s penis

dispensing potentially-lethal demon seed. Very Good HHH Rated PG-13 for PG-13 for action and violence Running time: 87 minutes Studio: SimonSays Entertainment Distributor: AFFRM To see a trailer for 25 to Life, visit: https://www.youtube. com/watch?v=T9b7qEVRpQc

Entering Stage Wright! Interview With Kam Williams

districts that we really haven’t explored before. So, it’s kind of a thrilling ride. From Beetee’s perspective, he becomes the lens through which we enter these other worlds, since he’s responsible for communications. That’s kind of exciting. I was also drawn to the idea of propaganda and communication as a weapon, since it’s relevant to a lot of what’s happening outside of cinema nowadays.

Critically-acclaimed Jeffrey Wright continually pushes the boundaries of his craft with inspiring and celebrated performances in an illustrious career that has spanned the worlds of theatre, film and television. On the big screen, Wright KW: Given your peerless acting talents, do you ever think was most recently seen in Jim Jarmusch’s Only Lovers Left of yourself as underrated? Alive which was released last April. JW: No, I don’t, Rel. Some people say that, but, no, I don’t. On television, he currently appears on HBO’s “Boardwalk Empire,” playing Dr. Valentin KW: Professor/filmmaker/ Narcisse, Doctor of Divinity, author Hisani Dubose says: philanthropist, student of You are one of the most culture and the man who runs engaging actors I’ve ever seen. Harlem. Onstage, this versatile How are you able to project thespian played the lead in so many emotions through John Guare’s A Free Man of your eyes? In the Manchurian Color, which was directed Candidate for example the by the legendary George C. close-up on your eyes told Wolfe at Lincoln Center. your story all by itself. Also And he garnered a Tony where did he get the idea Award in 1994 for his work for the way he said “Tiger in Tony Kushner’s Pulitzer Woo” in Shaft. People are still Prize-winning epic Angels imitating you for laughs. in America, also directed by JW: Thank you, Hisani. Wolfe. I don’t know how to answer On film, Jeffrey has the eyes question. I just use portrayed a stunning array the eyes that I was born with. of icons and iconoclasts. But I do think they are a film His brilliant portrayal of the actor’s primary tool, so I try to renowned and controversial use them well. As for “Tiger graffiti artist Jean Michel Woo,” I was in Scotland for Basquiat in the 1996 film the British Open a couple Photo by Murray Close/Lionsgate weeks before we started Basquiat received widespread Jeffrey Wright stars as ‘Beetee’ in The Hunger Games: praise from critics and earned shooting Shaft. Every day, I Mockingjay – Part 1. him an Independent Spirit was thinking about the script Award nomination. At the in my head. The original script other end of the spectrum, he has taken on roles in the James had me ask Christian Bale’s character whether he liked tennis. Bond films, Casino Royale and Quantum of Solace, and starred But it occurred to me that golf would be better, especially since as Muddy Waters in Cadillac Records and as Colin Powell in I’d been watching so much of it. So, instead I asked, “Do you Oliver Stone’s W. play golf?” before referring to “Tiger Woo,” since Peebles likes Here, he talks about his latest outing as Beetee in The power and aspires to be someone like that. [LOL] Hunger Games – Mockingjay Part 1. KW: The Viola Davis question: What’s the biggest Kam Williams: Hi Jeffrey, thanks for another interview. difference between who you are at home as opposed to the Jeffrey Wright: Hey, how’re you doin’, Kam? person we see on the red carpet? JW: Well, we just had the London red carpet premiere for KW: Great! How was it being back with The Hunger Mockingjay in front of about 5,000 people. I hope I’m not Games and playing Beetee again? nearly as excitable at home as I am in that situation. If I were JW: The film has kind of been an expansion of these stories, as amped up at home, I think I’d be bouncing off the walls. though not from Beetee’s perspective. It sort of shrinks for [Laughs] him in that he’s wheelchair-bound and kind of confined to a laboratory’s space. But the films around him are expanding KW: Thanks again for the time, Jeffrey. I’m really honored and the stakes are being raised, and we’re entering these to have had this opportunity to speak with you.

JW: Thank you, Kam! Take care. To see a trailer for The Hunger Games – Mockingjay Part 1, visit: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=IXshQ5mv1K8 To see a montage of Jeffrey playing Peeples in Shaft, visit: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Z_dQOIrGhwI

GIRLS NIGHT OUT 2014

PRESENTED BY

An Evening with

Join the the he women wom omen en of of AB A ABC’ ABC’s BC’ C s Board Board Boar d off Directors for a candid discussion about issues impacting women with New York Times bestselling author, inspirational speaker, lawyer, life coach and Executive Producer of “Iyanla Fix My Life.”

THURSDAY DECEMBER 4, 2014 @ 6pm Photo: Harpo Studios/George Burns

Jeffrey Wright: The Hunger Games – Mockingjay Part 1

Joseph Meyerhoff Symphony Hall Theatre 1212 Cathedral Street, Baltimore, MD 21201

PURCHASE TICKETS AT WWW.ABC-MD.ORG or contact Cynthia Todd at ctodd@abc-md.org or 410.659.0000 x1201

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INVESTOR IN WOMEN AT&T Services BG&E Horseshoe Casino OneMain Financial The Forum Caterers FRIEND OF ABC Procter & Gamble/CoverGIRL McCormick Saul Ewing State Farm Will & Jada Smith Family Foundation

SPONSORSHIP OPPORTUNITIES ARE AVAILABLE This is a fundraiser for Associated Black Charities

The Afro-American, November 29, 2014 -December 5, 2014

Sports Desk Faceoff

SPORTS

Will RGIII Ever Return to his Rookie Form? simply haven’t had enough time together.

By Perry Green and Stephen D. Riley AFRO Sports Desk The magical campaign that was Robert Griffin III’s rookie season and the Washington Redskins’ last playoff appearance seem like ages ago. It was only 2012 when RGIII was a rookie, taking the world by storm. A few injuries and a couple of different coaches later and Griffin finds himself at a crossroads as a Redskin. He’s 0-3 as the starting quarterback this year and has been even worse in-game. He’s sailed passes and missed reads routinely; and the sprinter speed from his rookie year is all but evaporated. Washington first-year coach Jay Gruden’s comment to the media that the “clock’s ticking” on Griffin could easily be interpreted as the coach could be thinking about a replacement. Times have changed dramatically from Griffin’s first year and he might finally be on the hot seat in Washington. But can Griffin return to form before it’s too late? Stephen D. Riley and Perry Green of the AFRO Sports Desk debate the question. Green: The time has come for Washington to cut the cord on RGIII. His rookie year is starting to look like a fluke and he’s on his way to flaming out the league much like Vince Young did after his Pro Bowl caliber rookie season. Even with his speed and agility fading, he should be able to successfully and consistently read coverages by now, and he just can’t. It’s painful to watch him play the quarterback position on Sundays, and his penchant for coming off as arrogant is the perfect combination to get him out the door early. Though Kirk Cousins and Colt McCoy aren’t starting quarterbacks themselves, they both have come in and had more success this year than Griffin, who hasn’t even won a game as a starter. The writing is on the wall in Washington and it’s becoming obvious.

Green: We haven’t seen enough of Gruden and Griffin, but we’ve seen enough of RGIII as a solo act and heard enough of his prima donna postgame rants to know that he’s going to sink this team the longer he stays on it. Even his first year had murmurs of locker room dysfunction between him and the older players back in 2012. I think the brand, the commercials and the injuries have simply run its course in the capital. Even those around the team that continue to give him passes based upon his rookie season are beginning to open their eyes. Fans are beginning to voice their displeasure, and you can even hear boo birds at FedEx Field. They were definitely there last week when he played terribly against sorry Tampa Bay Buccaneers. Washington finally has its draft picks back after trading so many of them away for RGIII in the first place – the team is on the way to another bottom-five finish and could use that pick to draft his replacement. If it’s ever going to be a year to start all over again it’ll be this one coming up, especially if Griffin continues to play erratically and lose football games.

Can Griffin return to form before its too late? Riley: Griffin has played bad, no doubt, but he’s going to continue to have mulligans as long as he continues to get hurt. He missed six games this year, that’s a considerable amount of time for any NFL player to be out, let alone a quarterback. And even after missing a month-and-a-half, he’s still managed to throw for scores in each of his last two games. The game last week against the Tampa Bay Buccaneers was as bad as it gets from a team perspective, but it was just another step in getting back to normal for RGIII. Washington could probably cut ties with Griffin and it wouldn’t come as a shock to people inside that locker room. But, the fact still remains that he’s the best option for them as a signal caller. Gruden has done well with young quarterbacks and we still haven’t seen anything close to a working relationship between the two yet because they

Riley: Whatever pick that Washington ends up with this year the team would certainly be wise to use it to add another piece up front to the offensive line. Every quarterback that’s played behind that unit has been put under fire this season, and the lack of a pass rush has definitely crippled the defense. There are many holes on this Redskin team that don’t even possess the potential that Griffin has at the quarterback position. Gruden has shown he can work with quarterbacks and turn them into above average players. Griffin’s unique skill set is a welcomed addition to the signal caller position that Gruden could definitely mold into his own image. But until we see a full healthy year from RGIII then he should be able to last at least one more year in Washington.

‘And the Beat Goes On’

Mrs. Santa Donation Form

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Coming to visit his mom, Sam took the alley short cut. Sam was wearing a blue suit, and this alerted Blitz that the enemy was in the neighborhood. Sam entered the house from the front and proceeded to the back porch to give his mom a hug. When he stepped onto the porch, Blitz lit him up. Now Sam had a reputation for being a fashion plate, but when Blitz finished with that blue suit, Sam looked like the neighborhood bum. I had a decent track career, and sometimes I would be questioned about how I got my speed. I would always reply that I was faster than light. This was a little slanted, but absolutely true. We lived in the lower third of the block. There was a street light in front of my house, and Sam’s rule was, “Be in the house when the street light comes on.” There was another street light in the upper third of the block, and I would play until that light came on. The lights were in tandem, and when the light came on up the block, I would sprint for home. Making the full speed turn into my house would turn into quite an adventure on some days, but Sam would just hand me the iodine for my skinned knee and turn his back so I couldn’t see the grin on his face. Some would say he was hard but fair, but that was part of what made Sam special.

Savethe

Thursday, Feb. 26, 2015

Date

o I want to join the AFRO’s spirit of giving. Please accept my contribution of $___________ to benefit a less fortunate family.

I am sure most of you are guilty of this, and will get a chuckle when I confess that it is happening to me. I was kicking back in my favorite chair with one eye on the TV and the other in my brain searching for my column material. Sam’s story kept popping up, and I was trying to dismiss it with the excuse of poor concentration. This is when the chuckle erupted. I had the audacity to close “He Made a Difference,” thinking I had covered the life story of Sam Lacy. When Sam left us to take a seat at the Sports Desk in the sky, he was a half dozen heartbeats from turning 100 years old. The question rises, “Why did I think I could share his story in a few paragraphs?” I think a good place to pick up his story is with a little humor. My grandmother had a pit bull named Blitz. The knock on pit bulls is ridiculous. The mean ones are taught to be mean, or you have to tick them off. Blitz was as gentle as a lamb unless you got it twisted. The mailman would take a short cut through the alley, and as he passed the yard he would drag a magazine along the fence to mess with Blitz. I think Blitz would go to sleep at night trying to figure a way to get to that mailman.

s d n e Leg eers n o i P The AFRO presents

and

2015

6 p.m . to 9 p.m . The Reginald F. Lewis Museum of Maryland African American History and Culture

November 29, 2014 - December 5, 2014, The Afro-American

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If you require special accommodations to attend or participate in the meeting, please contact Michael Augins at (410) 396-6883.The following projects will be considered for award during the meeting:

ORDER FOR NOTICE BY PUBLICATION The object of this suit is to officially change the name of the petitioner from Austin Marshall Kandeah to Austin Kandeah Marshall

2.PROJECT #1224 - WATER AND WASTEWATER PLANTS EFFICIENCY STUDY 3.PROJECT #1225 - ON-CALL DESIGN CONSULTANT SERVICES FOR RESURFACING AND RECONSTRUCTION PROJECTS Michael L. Augins Acting Chief Issues of: 11/26/2014 Daily Record Baltimore Sun eMaryland MarketPlace

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

HOUSING AUTHORITY OF BALTIMORE CITY INVITATION FOR BIDS PAINTING SERVICES IFB NUMBER: B-1780-14 The Housing Authority of Baltimore City (”HABC”) will issue an Invitation for Bids (”IFB”) for qualified and interested vendors to submit sealed bids to provide ”on-call” painting services at various HABC developments as requested by HABC. BIDS WILL BE DUE no later than 2:00 p.m. Eastern Time on Friday, January 9, 2015. A non-mandatory pre-bid meeting will be held on Wednesday, December 17, 2014 at 10:00 a.m., at the Charles L. Benton Building, 417 E. Fayette Street, Room 416, Baltimore, Maryland, 21202. HABC has established a minimum threshold of twenty percent (20%) of the total dollar amount of the proposed contract for Minority Business Enterprise (”MBE”) utilization, applicable to all minority and non-minority businesses proposing to provide the requested services as the prime contractor. No threshold has been established for participation of Womenowned businesses (”WBEs), however, HABC strongly encourages and affirmatively promotes the use of WBEs in all HABC contracts.

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

The IFB and all supporting documents may be obtained on or after Monday, December 8, 2014 from the following location:

Questions regarding the IFB should be directed in writing to the address and individual indicated above, and must include the reference: HABC Bid No. B-1780-14.

TYPESET: Wed Nov 19 14:42:28 EST 2014

CITY OF BALTIMORE DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION NOTICE OF LETTING Sealed Bids or Proposals, in duplicate addressed to the Board of Estimates of the Mayor and City Council of Baltimore and marked for BALTIMORE CITY NO.TR15008; URGENT NEED CONTRACT CITYWIDE will be received at the Office of the Comptroller, Room 204 City Hall, Baltimore, Maryland until 11:00 A.M. DECEMBER 17, 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 November 21, 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 prerequalified by the City of Baltimore Contractors Qualification Committee. Interested parties should call (410) 396-6883 or contact the Committee at 3000 Druid Park, 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 a02602 (Bituminous Paving) and D02620 (Curbs, Gutters & sidewalks).Cost Qualification Range for this work shall be $1,000,000.00 to $2,000,000.00 A ”Pre-Bidding Information” session will be conducted at 10:00 A.M. on December 5, 2014 at 417 East Fayette Street, Room 724, Baltimore, Maryland 21202. Principal Items of work for this project are -HMA Superpave 9.5 MM for Surface, PG 64-22, Level 2 1,700 Ton; HMA Superpave 12.5 MM for Surface , PG76-22, Level 2 1,000 Ton. The MBE goal is 19%; WBE goal is 6%

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

$ 80.00 $ 200.00

FAMILY COURT 202-879-1212 DOMESTIC RELATIONS 202-879-0157

Bidders shall also comply with all applicable requirements of Section 3 of the Housing and Urban Development Act of 1968, 12 U.S.C. Section 1701u.

It is this 30th day of October, 2014 by the Circuit Court for Baltimore City, ORDERED, that publication be given one time in a newspaper of general circulation in CAREER Baltimore City on or before the 30th day of TRAINING N o v e m b e r , 2 0 1 4 , APPROVED: Bernice H. Taylor, AIRLINE CAREERS which shall warn all Clerk Board of Estimates begin here – Get FAA interested persons to TYPESET: Wed Nov 19 15:09:19 EST 2014 approved Aviation Main- file an affidavit in opposition to the relief retenance training. Housing and Financial Aid for quested on or before CITY OF BALTIMORE the 15th day of qualified students. Job DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION December, 2014. NOTICE OF LETTING placement assistance. CALL Aviation Institute Frank M. Conaway Sealed Bids or Proposals, in duplicate addressed to the Board of Estimates of Maintenance Clerk of the Mayor and City Council of Baltimore and marked for BALTIMORE 800-481-8974 11/21/14 CITY NO.TR15015; BRINE FACILITY AND BUILDING IMPROVEMENTS will be received at the Office of the Comptroller, Room 204 City Hall, Baltimore, Maryland until 11:00 A.M. DECEMBER 10, 2014. Positively no HELP WANTED: bids will be received after 11:00 A.M. Bids will be publicly opened by the DRIVERS 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 MuniciDRIVERS: Owner Oppal Building, 200 N. Holliday Street, Baltimore, Maryland 21202 as of erators and experienced November 7, 2014 and copies may be purchased for a non-refundable cost OTR drivers needed for of $100.00. Conditions and requirements of the Bid are found in the bid expanding fleet. Call package. All contractors bidding on this Contract must first be USA Truck today. 866prerequalified by the City of Baltimore Contractors Qualification Committee. 545-00782 Interested parties should call (410) 396-6883 or contact the Committee at 3000 Druid Park, 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 LANDS FOR Prequalification Category required for bidding on this project is SALE F16000(ELECTRICAL).Cost Qualification Range for this work shall be $400,000.00 to $500,000.00 A ”Pre-Bidding Information” session will be 1,000 FEET conducted at 10:00 A.M. on November 14, 2014 at 417 East Fayette FRONTAGE CAStreet, Richard Chen Conference Room, Baltimore, Maryland 21202. NOE, FISH, SWIM Principal Items of work for this project are -Building Improvements- LS; & SUNSET VIEWS Salt Brine System - LS. The MBE goal is 26%; WBE goal is 4% APPROVED: Bernice H. Taylor, Clerk 20+ ACRES $69,777 Board of Estimates Do what you

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Housing Authority of Baltimore City Division of Fiscal Operations, Procurement Department 417 E. Fayette Street, Room 414 Baltimore, Maryland 21202 Attention: John Airey, Chief of Contracting Services LEGAL NOTICES TYPESET: Wed Nov 19 14:43:23 EST 2014 Tel: (410) 396-3261 Fax: (410) 962-1586

IN THE CIRCUIT COURT FOR BALTIMORE CITY Case No.: 24D14003027 IN THE MATTER OF Austin Marshall Kandeah FOR CHANGE OF NAME TO Ashton Kandeah Marshall

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TYPESET: Tue Nov 25 13:33:20 EST 2014 LEGAL NOTICES IN THE CIRCUIT COURT FOR BALTIMORE CITY Case No.: 24D14002588 IN THE MATTER OF Michele Yvette Parham AKA Michelle Yvette Parham FOR CHANGE OF NAME TO Diamond Michel’le Parham ORDER FOR NOTICE BY PUBLICATION The object of this suit is to officially change the name of the petitioner from Michele Yvette Parham AKA Michelle Yvette Parham to Diamond Michel ’le Parham It is this 6th day of November, 2014 by the Circuit Court for Baltimore City, ORDERED, that publication be given one time in a newspaper of general circulation in Baltimore City on or before the 6th day of D e c e m b e r, 2 0 1 4 , which shall warn all interested persons to file an affidavit in opposition to the relief requested on or before the 22nd day of December, 2014.

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November 29, 2014 - December 5, 2014 The Afro-American

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TYPESET: Tue Nov 25 13:50:06 EST 2014

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

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The Afro-American, November 29, 2014 - December 5, 2014

“WELL RESTED AND READY TO PARTY” Hello, my dear friends, I am back from my vacation of R&R. My Boo-Boo, Shorty and I went to Biloxi, Mississippi and stayed at the Harrah’s Gulf Coast Casino for about 10 days, and we spent a day in New Orleans. We truly had a fun and restful get-away. It’s just what my doctor ordered. Now that I am well rested, I am ready to party and get back to work. I want to personally thank my friends, fans, musicians and readers for their phone calls checking on me while I was Dr. Ruth Travis is being in the hospital, and after I got celebrated for the “Woman, home; and the visits from my the Word and her Work”. dear friends such as Phil Butts, Her Pastoral celebration Joe Hosea, Carlton & Darlene will be held at the Delta Douglass, Dr. Elaine Simon Community Center, 2501 and her daughter Denise, Betty Springhill Avenue on Allen & Michelle Brown just Nov. 29 from 1-5 p.m. She to name a few. Thanks for received a B.S. in Physical the beautiful cards from so education from Morgan many wishing me well and State College; Master’s praying for me and the flowers Degree of Education from I received from my AfroWest Chest University, American Newspaper family. Master’s Degree in I truly felt your love. I thank Theology from St. Mary’s you all from the bottom of my Seminary in Baltimore; heart. her Doctor of Ministry Okay, now that degree from the United Thanksgiving is over and the Theological Seminary in leftover turkey is gone, the Dayton, Ohio. She is Pastor commercials have already of Ebenezer A.M.E. Church started for the Christmas in Baltimore. For ticket holiday. I had barley put the information, call 786-417last fork of turkey in my 4809 or email Charlotte mouth when I heard Christmas Scruggs at char45665@aol. Carols on the radio and saw com.

Santa Claus hanging out in front of the Department Stores. My birthday was on Thanksgiving Day and before I could cut my birthday cake, they were singing “Silent Night.” Terrible situation! Well, it is party time. My dear friend, Brian Hall of D.O.T. Entertainment is hosting a “40 & Older All Black Reunion” on Nov. 29 from 8 p.m. until 1 a.m. at the Patapsco Arena. You really need to be at this one. Brian’s events have always been a lot of fun and very festive. The entertainment will include: Black Ivory, the Ebony’s, First Impressions, Comedy by Ms. Maybelle and hosted by Courtman. The guest host will be Sylvester of First Class, DJ Kenny D, DJ Unique and DJ Diamond will bring you the sounds from their turntable and the special honoree is fashion show star, Travis Winkey. It is Cabaret style, so BYOF & cash bar. For tickets information, call 410-929-1360. I will see you there with my two books to autograph for you. I am now planning for the Rosa Pryor Music Scholarship Gospel Prayer Breakfast Fundraiser, which has become very popular thru the years. I am looking for some down-home gospel singers, quartets and comedians for this event. Speaking about the Rosa Pryor Music Scholarship Fund, I would like to share this with you. As you know, on Oct. 26, I had my Award Akyra Brown from Paul Banquet and Scholarship Laurence Dunbar High event where we gave 5 School recently received a children scholarships. Four scholarship award from the of the children attended, Big Sisters Club of Baltimore. (which is required) and She was an outstanding performed. The fifth child student and ranked fifth was represented by his out of 253 students. She is mother because he had currently attending McDaniel to travel out of town to College in Westminster, Md., start his classes. He is 15 pursuing a career in music. years old and he won his Congratulations!

Elliott Levine Quartet will be performing at the Caton Castle, 20 S. Canton Ave. The event will be hosted by Left Bank Jazz Society President, Millie Battle on Nov. 29 from 6-10 p.m. For ticket information, call 410-566-7086. scholarship by playing an upright double bass. So, today we received the following letter from this student: Dear Ms. Pryor, This is Matthew Scott, one of your participants and winners of the Rosa Pryor Music Scholarship. I would like to thank you for the opportunity to play in front of your accomplished panel of judges and to receive such a generous scholarship. As you may know, I am currently attending Interlochen Fine Arts Academy, so I apologize that I was unable to attend the awards banquet. Oh how I wish that I could have been there to give my speech of gratitude in person. I also thank you because it would have been very hard to make it to Interlochen without this scholarship. I love this school, and I don’t know what I would have done if I was unable to go here. I have already improved so much from the amazing teaching that I have received here. I hope that I will be able to contribute to the fund as alumni of the scholarship in my later years. Please keep me in your prayers and I will do the same. Also please extend my appreciation to the judges and the scholarship selection committee as well. God bless, Matthew J. Scott Well, my dear friends, this is why I so enjoy doing this. Guess what? It is about that time. I got to go. But remember, if you need me, just call me at 410-833-9474 or email me at rosapryor@aol. com. UNTIL THE NEXT TIME, I’M MUSICALLY YOURS.

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