“There is no negro problem. The problem is whether the American people have loyalty enough, honor enough, patriotism enough, to live up to their own constitution.” – Frederick Douglass
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Jacqueline Simms, a third-grade teacher at Anne Beers Elementary School in Southeast, appears stunned at winning the $25,000 prize from the Milken Family Foundation for excellence in teaching on Feb. 6. See Story on Page 19. /Photo by Khalid Naji-Allah
Economists and Scholars Discuss Disparities & Race By Barrington M. Salmon WI Staff Writer About two dozen economists, academics and other scholars spent the day laying out an often dismal picture of the economic stressors that push and pull against African Americans, Latinos and Asians on a daily basis.
But rather than just laying out a litany of problems, the group, in a series of presentations, offered varied prescriptions for reversing the vast disparities between people of color and their white counterparts in the United States. Speaker after speaker gave voice to the institutional racism
that consigns disturbing numbers of non-whites to high levels of unemployment, a widening wealth gap, educational disparities and economic distress that bodes ill not just for these respective communities but America as a whole. According to the U.S. Census, in 2012, white households
had incomes that are two-thirds higher than blacks and 40 percent higher than Latinos. White adults are also more likely than black and Latino adults to have college degrees and to own their own homes. The gap in poverty rates has narrowed since 1980 but it remains substantial. The poverty rate for whites is 7.7
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percent. The rate stands at about 24 percent for blacks and 21 percent for Latinos. The speakers said there is continued urgency around finding solutions to seemingly intractable problems facing African Americans. Blacks have been battered by the recession, and
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Living the Dream ...Singing the Dream Celebrating the Legacy of MLK, Jr.
The Choral Arts Society of Washington, WPAS Men, Women and Children of the Gospel Choirs held the annual concert to honor the memory of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. at the Kennedy Center in Washington, DC. Marian Wright Edelman was the presenter of the 2013 Humanitarian Award Recipient Nelson Mandela. South African Ambassador Ebrahim Rasool received the award for Mr. Mandela. Also on the program was a performance by Step Afrika - (Jakari Sherman (Artistic Director). Scott Tucker is the Artistic Director for the Choral Arts Society of Washington. Deborah Kraft is the Executive Director for the Choral Arts Society. Stanley Thurston is the Artistic Director for WPAS Men, Women and Children of the Gospel Choirs. Michelle Fowlin is the Director of the WPAS Children of the Gospel Choir. For more information about the Choral Arts Society go to www.ChoralArts.org
Scott Tucker (Artistic Director ) Choral Arts Society of Washington Bd. of Director
(L-R) Deborah Kraft (Choral Arts Exec. Dir.) & Marian Wright Edelman (Founder & Pres. Children’s Defense Fund) & Event Presenter
Jakari Sherman (Artistic Director of Step Afrika)
(L-R )Stanley J. Thurston (Co-Music Dir. of MLK Concert) and Kathy Brewington (Asst. Dir. of Ed. WPAS)
Step Afrika Dancer & Asst. Artistic Director Gina Marie Demarco
Michele Fowlin (Eductor, Director &Clinician)
(L-R) Step Afrika Dancers - Christopher Brient & Delonte Bridges
Ambassador Ebrahim Rasool (South Africa) Received the Humanitarian Award for 2013 Awardee Nelson Mandela
Ralph Alan Herndon - premiere Gospel music talents of the National Capitol Area. - a panists, vocalist & composer
(L-R) “Mickey” Thompson (Publisher Social Sightings-The CoLumn) & Scott Tucker (Composor Choral Arts Society Artistic Director)
(L-R) Deloris & David Ellison, Hugh & Dr. Marilyn Brown (Center) with Judith Terra (Chair. of the Washington DC Commission on the Arts & Humanities) and guests attending the concert.
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2/14/2013 2/20/2013 AROUND THE REGION Black Facts Page 6 PRINCE GEORGE’S COUNTY Page 12 BUSINESS William Reed’s Business Exchange Page 16 COMMENTARIES Pages 36-37 SPORTS HIGHLIGHTS Pages 44-45 RELIGION Metal beams bolster the Carter G. Woodson Home to prevent the National Historic Landmark in Northwest from collapsing. More than $6.5 million is needed to restore the National Historic Landmark. / Photo by DR Barnes
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Women Break the Cycle of Domestic Violence By Tia Carol Jones
law enforcement. She said they had come together to bring a sense of uniformity in the way When L.Y. Marlow's 23-year- domestic violence victims and old daughter told her the father survivors are treated. of her daughter threatened her “She's using her own personal life, and the life of their child, story, her own personal pain to she knew something had to be push forward,” Davis-Nickens done. Out of her frustration said about Marlow. with law enforcement's handling Davis-Nickens said anyone of the situation, she decided to who reads Marlow's book will start the Saving Promise cam- “get it.” She said she “puts the paign. case in such a way, the average “It seems to be a vicious cycle person can get it.” She said at the that won't turn my family end of the day, the book will The Rev. Graylan Hagler. /Courtesy Photo loose,” Marlow said. Marlow help people begin to have a diashared her story with the audi- logue about domestic violence. ence at the District Heights Also present at the event was Domestic Violence Symposium Mildred Muhammad, the exon May 7 at the District Heights wife of John Allen Muhammad, Municipal Center. The sympo- who was sentenced to six consecsium was sponsored by the utive life terms without parole Family and Youth Services by a Maryland jury for his role in Center of the city of District the Beltway Sniper attacks in Heights and the National Hook- 2002. Mildred Muhammad is Up of Black Women. the founder of After the Trauma, Marlow a book, culture By Davidhas M. written Whettstone assumed that, by an organization thatcertainly helps the “Color Me Butterfly,” which is a the survivors violence there end of ofthedomestic 20th century, WI Contributing Writer story about four generations of would and their children. be no more Indians.” domestic violence. The book is “I lived in fear for six years. Six Panelist Robert Holden, deputy Hundreds of scholars, journalinspired by her own experiences, years in of feartheisNational a long time. It is Congress ists, activists and Native Amer- director and those of her grandmother, of an easy thing to come out Indians, referred icans gathered at a museum in not American her mother and her daughter. to of,”anshe said. historical example when he Southwest to discuss She said every timecontroversial she reads Mildredthe Muhammad said addressed crowd. “If the Kanmonikers and mascots that over excerpts from her book, she still people who want to help a City Chiefs were named after the have led heatedcame de- sas can years not believe thetowords domestic violence victim must why not have an image bates her. among university officials, abemayor, from “Color Me Butterfly” careful of how they go into of a middle-aged white guy for a sports enthusiasts, coaches,“Best par- the victim's life, and won the 2007 National understand mascot?” Books” ents andAward. students. that she may be in “survival Throughout the day, Native “I wasthan just 350 16-years-old when mode”. More people packed Americans, blacks my eye first blackened and my “Before you get toand 'I'm whites going the Rasmuson Theater in the posed questions to 17 panelists to lips bled,” Marlow said. to kill you,' it started as a verbal National Museum of the AmeriElaine Davis-Nickens, presishore up their understanding of can Indian on Feb. 7 to weigh in dent of the National Hook-Up the issues so that they can stage during a symposium on the use of Black Women, said there is no boycotts, use social media and of negative in caricatures consistency the way regarding domestic urge family and friends to rally Native Americans. The with daylong violence issues are dealt by around the cause. One District conference, entitled, “Racist Stepastor sees this particular plight reotypes and Cultural Appropriafor Native Americans as being tion in American Sports” promptinextricably tied to the activism in ed those in attendance to vow to the District. change the name of a popular “We are truly a reservation in football team – The Washington Washington, D.C., but without Redskins – and to eliminate the sovereignty,” said the Rev. Grayuse of Native American mascots lan Hagler, senior minister of in sports. Plymouth Congregational, United Director of the National Muse- Church of Christ in Northeast. um of the American Indian Kevin Hagler said that he was grateful Gover welcomed guests and urged that Mayor Vincent Gray avoidthem to look at the myths and his- ed the use of the franchise name tories associated with mascots. when he referred to “our Wash“The practice of using Native ington football team” in this State people as mascots largely emerged of the District address on Feb. 5. at the very time government poli“Somehow people of color are cy was to deliberately destroy Na- the dominant culture’s treasure, tive language, Native religion, and the dominant culture’s collection. Native identity,” said Gover, 57, We are to be defined by somebody of the Pawnee Nation. “ … Gov- else, and manipulated by someernment policy and the popular body else. All these things seek to WI Staff Writer
Native Americans, Others Insist Mascots Must Go
4 / May 15 - 21, 2008 The Washington Informer / www.washingtoninformer.com The Washington Informer
4 Feb. 14, 2013 - Feb. 20, 2013
threat,” she said. Among the programs Marlow wants to see implemented are stricter restraining order policies, more rights for victim's families to intervene on behalf of a victim, a domestic violence assessment unit coupled with further training for law enforcement agencies, a Child's Life Protection Act and mandatory counseling for batterers. “If we are ever going to eradicate domestic violence, we must look at both sides of the coin. We need to address both the victim and the batterer,” Marlow said. Marlow would also like to see programs designed to raise awareness among children in public and private schools. She feels children need to be educated about domestic violence. “We have to stop being passive-aggressive with poor chiltake humanity,” Hagler, dren away aboutourdomestic violence,” Marlow 59, said tosaid. thunderous applause. Marlowalong has with worked to break Hagler Holden, sevthe cycle of abuse in her family, eral sports the reporters, and islocal confident policies and she Judith Bartnoff, presiding is pushing for deputy will start that process. judge of the District of Columbia “I planCourt to takeserved these policies to Superior on the afCongress and implore them to ternoon panel. EachMarlow made a said. case change our laws,” to Redskins name.poli“I replace will notthe stop until these ciesWashington are passed.” Post sports columCarol Jones reached nistTia Mike Wise saidcan thatbehe’s conat tiacaroljones@sbcglobal.net cerned about the harm that mascots WIand negative images inflict upon Native American children. “I’ve been told that there are bigger issues for Native American communities. What can be more important than a child’s self image?” He pointed to the logo of the Washington football team on a jumbo screen behind him and said, “I believe in my lifetime that symbol will disappear from this town.” At that point, the crowd gave the writer a rousing hand of applause. Ward 5 resident Cyndi Harsley, 69, and of black and Seminole heritage, said she was glad the day ended on a high note. She was pleased to hear a list of actions that can be taken and participants’ Marlow willingness to stay inL.Y. touch. “This is the time to make black communities aware of this struggle,” Harsley said. wi
“
We have to stop being passive-aggressive with poor children about domestic violence. I plan to take these policies to Congress and implore them to change our laws. I will not stop until these policies are passed.
“
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Frumin Stresses Education and Infrastructure Matthew Frumin, a candidate for the April 23 at-large special election to permanently fill the D.C. Council seat vacated by Phil Mendelson, wants to ensure that every child in the District receives a quality education at a school in their respective neighborhoods and that the city’s infrastructure remains sound for years to come. Frumin, 55, who serves as an advisory neighborhood commissioner for 3E in Northwest, said he recognizes Ward 3 has the highest per capita income but he wants the District to become far more inclusive – in terms of jobs and opportunities. “I want to bring people together and I have a record of getting things done,” said Frumin, an international trade lawyer. “I have a record of activism on school issues and I believe that the schools citywide should have the same amenities and there should be a great local school on every corner.” Frumin is credited with being a force in the modernization of Woodrow Wilson High School in Northwest, a process that took years of persistent activism, he said. Over the years, he’s attended meetings hosted by the Ward 7 Education Council and also showed up to hear D.C. school officials make presentations in Ward 8 to discuss the challenges schools face east of the Anacostia River. “On the D.C. Council, I want to be the guy from Ward 3 who understands that the best schools cannot just be in Ward 3,” he said. Frumin is a member of the Mayor’s Taskforce for Undergrounding Power Lines and said that improving the city’s centuries-old infrastructure will benefit all residents. “The work on our underground power and storm-water system will create jobs for residents, particularly those who live in Wards 7 and 8 and returning citizens,” he said. Frumin said that he’s learned a great deal about the problems returning citizens face because of his son Jophie’s internship with D.C. Council member Marion Barry (D-Ward 8), and by talking with residents through-
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Matthew Frumin is an advisory neighborhood commissioner in Ward 3. /Photo by Roy Lewis
out the city. “A lot of people in my part of the city don’t get this issue but I do,” he said. “I believe that you must give a person another chance and you can do that through job training and job creation. I am the gray, middle-age White guy who will be an advocate for returning citizens on the D.C. Council,” he said. Redd is Ready to Lead D.C. Statehood Green candidate Perry Redd wants better and more ethical government for District residents and that’s why he is a candidate for the at-large special election on April 23 to permanently fill the position on the D.C. Council vacated by Phil Mendelson, who is the chairman of the legislative body. “I am running on the Statehood Green ticket because we are in the midst of one-party rule in this city,” said Redd, 48. “We have corruption, mismanagement and non-inclusion on our city council. I will work to see that people are included and
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that we have a government that is transparent and accountable.” Redd, a fourth-generation Washingtonian and a graduate of H.D. Woodson High School in Northeast, has served in the military, pastored a church and hosted a television show. Currently, Redd works as a community organizer. He is also the only candidate who is a returning citizen and said that he will focus on their specific issues. “Things such as the bill that legalizes clean-hands certificates, where ex-offenders have to present papers to perspective employers that say they are safe to hire, is reminiscent of Jim Crow-legislation,” Redd said. “Returning citizens deserve to be treated fairly and accorded their human and civil rights.” Redd also supports D.C. ‡ Please set all copy in upper and lowercase, flush left as indicated on artwork at these point sizes: Consultant name in 11-point Helvetica Neue Bo Beauty Consultant in 9-point Helvetica Neue Light; Web site or e-mail address in 9-point Helvetica Neue Light; phone number in 9-point Helvetica statehood, saying that “voting To the Independent Beauty Consultant: Only Company-approved Web sites obtained through the Mary Kay® Personal Web Site program may rights in the U.S. Congress is not sufficient” and “we want full representation not a one-third representative,” the Northwest resident said. wi The Washington Informer
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tion of the 1960’s. At its height, it had thousands of members in several major cities. But it was also the target of massive operations by the FBI and local police departments. 1963 – Perhaps the greatest player to ever dribble a basketball, Michael Jordan, was born on this day in Brooklyn, New York. However, his family moved and he played high school basketball in Wilmington, North Carolina.
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February 14 1760 – The great religious leader Richard Allen is born in slavery in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. After being required to sit in the back of a white church, Allen would go on to help found and become first active bishop of the African Methodist Episcopal Church (AME). 1817 – February 14, 1817 is the most likely birth date of abolitionist and orator Frederick Douglass. Douglass purchased his freedom in 1845 and went on to become the most influential black leader of his day. He did most of his work while living in Rochester, New York. But after the Civil War, he moved to Washington, D.C. 1867 – One of the nation’s most distinguished institutions of higher learning, Morehouse College, was founded on this day in Augusta, Georgia as the Augusta Institute. It moved to Atlanta in 1879 and became the Atlanta Baptist Seminary. It became “Morehouse” in 1913. Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. graduated from Morehouse. February 15 1804 – The New Jersey legislature passes a law leading to the gradual elimination of slavery in the state. However, the process was so gradual that there were still slaves in New Jersey right up to the start of the Civil War in 1860. 1961 – A group of U.S. blacks and African nationalists disrupt a session of the United Nations to protest the slaying of Patrice Lumumba in the Congo. Lumumba was one of Africa’s bright and shining stars. But his nationalism and socialism
frightened some Western nations. It is widely believed that Belgium intelligence and America’s CIA arranged the killing of Lumumba. 1965 – Great singer and Jazz pianist Nat King Cole dies of lung cancer in Santa Monica, California. He was only 45. Cole was the first black entertainer with his own radio program and later he became the first with a nationally televised TV variety show. February 16 1923 – The “Empress of the Blues” Bessie Smith makes her first recording – “Downhearted Blues” – which immediately sells over 800,000 copies for Columbia Records and over 2,000,000 copies by the end of the year. She died in an automobile accident in 1937 in Clarksdale, Mississippi. 1951 – The City Council in New York City passes what is believed to be the first law barring racial discrimination in public assisted housing. February 17 1902 – Opera legend Marian Anderson is born in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. Despite her fame she suffered from racist rejection. On Easter Sunday 1939, she performed an open air recital at the Lincoln Memorial because the all white Daughters of the American Revolution refused to allow her to sing at Washington, D.C.’s Constitution Hall. 1942 – Black Panther Party co-founder Huey P. Newton is born. The Panthers were perhaps the most militant black organiza-
February 18 1688 - First formal protest against slavery by organized white body in English America made by Germantown (Pa.) Quakers at monthly meeting. The historic “Germantown Protest” denounced slavery and the slave trade. 1894 - Paul Revere Williams, renowned architect was born. 1931 - Pulitzer Prize winner Toni Morrison, (born Chloe Anthony Wofford), was born in Lorain, Ohio. February 19 1940 - William “Smokey” Robinson was born in Detroit, Michigan. Robinson’s first singing group was the Miracles which he formed in 1955 while still in high school. The group’s first success came in 1960 with the hit, “Shop Around.” 1942 - The Army Air Corps’ all African American 100th Pursuit Squadron, later designated a fighter squadron, was activated at Tuskegee Institute. 1992 - John Singleton, the first African American director to be nominated for the Academy Award is nominated for best director and best screenplay for his first film Boyz N the Hood. February 20 1927 - Sidney Poitier was born in Miami, Florida, he was the first African-American to win an Academy Award in a starring role. 1931 - Army Lt. Gen. Emmett Paige, Jr. was born in Jacksonville, Florida 1936 - Jazz singer, actress, Nancy Wilson was born in Chillicothe, Ohio 1963 - Charles Wade Barkley, was born in Leeds, Alabama.
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INTERVIEWS AND PHOTOS BY TIMOTHY LINDEN
Viewp int LaVonne Farr Reston, Va. As an educated black woman, I feel that Black history is American history. I believe that Black history should be mandatory in all schools today and should be added to the curriculum. However, Black history should not be [taught in] a separate class. It should be mandatory the way that math, English, science and history are, because Black history is American history.
Natalie Gardner Charlotte, N.C. I believe all children should know about African-American history and understand what struggles and hardships [the pioneers] had to go through. It should not be taught for the benefit of gaining an apology or because of guilt. It should be taught to [educate] children about the lost history of a people [who] were hidden throughout the years, and peeked out only when [necessary] during the shortest month [of the year], [which is February]. Black history as a mandatory curriculum is [definitely] needed.
Do You Think that a Black History Curriculum Should Be Mandatory in Public Schools?
Jarra Chatmon Cartersville, Ga. While I personally feel that Black history is American history, I am not willing to subject my children to potentially harmful revisionist history just so I don’t have to teach them at home. The primary responsibility for a child’s education lies with their parents, and it is the parents’ job to fill in perceived gaps. In America, we have the freedom to provide our children with whatever quality of education we choose, as long as we are willing to make the necessary sacrifices.
Oscar Skipwith Landover, Md. I think it should be a required curriculum and school children should receive more than just one month’s acknowledgement from the public school system. The contributions that African Americans have made to U.S. history and society cannot be chronicled in just one month. To do so, is a slight to those pioneers and innovators. African-American history is far too important and most definitely should be made a required curriculum in the public school system.
Nanyamka Payne Washington, D.C. Yes, having Black history as a mandatory curriculum would be a great asset for all students. It would open their eyes to everything that [African Americans] have contributed [to society]. It would also give students the opportunity to ask questions about [the] many [inventions African Americans have made and that] they’re currently using or have used [that] have made a difference in their lives.
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AROUND THE REGION
Darrick Hamilton presents his findings during the Fourth Annual African American Economic Summit on Feb. 1. /Photo by Roy Lewis
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SUMMIT continued from Page 1 have not fully benefited from the fragile economic recovery. Unemployment is significantly higher than the national figure and income inequality and a widening wealth gap threatens to consign blacks and Latinos community to a permanent underclass. “Black people have been denied the opportunity to earn income, get higher incomes and advance in those jobs,” said renowned Economist Bernard E. Anderson during the Fourth Annual African American Economic Summit, sponsored by the Joint Center for Political and Economic Studies, at Howard University on Feb. 1. “One of the reasons discrimination is so high is because so many blacks with education and training are denied access.” “There are notable disparities in employment for African Americans and whites who have similar educational levels and the reasons for that is substantial discrimination.” Anderson, the Whitney M. Young Jr. Professor Emeritus at the University of Pennsylvania’s Wharton School, said the unemThe Washington Informer
ployment rates between blacks and whites with a college education was narrowing until the recession that began in 2007 started to ravage the United States. But as the country has recovered, that gap has not narrowed. “Until we fight this head on, we’ll continue to have these problems. I think we need to not let the president off the hook,” Anderson said of President Barack Obama. “Black people are smart. They gave him a pass during the first term. But he’s not going to run again for anything. He must find a voice and summon up the courage and use his political capital to fight against racism.” Anderson, chairman of the National Urban League Council of Economic Advisors, said he remembers taking a day off from the Pentagon 50 years ago, to attend the March on Washington. “It wasn’t about Martin Luther King, it was a march for jobs and freedom,” said Anderson. “It was organized by A. Philip Randolph who believed that freedom in this country was dependent on economic opportunity. We have to have the president address the issue of racial inequality. We understand that he doesn’t want race to be a dominant theme … How
ironic is it that an African- American president must remain silent on this issue?” Rodney Green, Ph.D., chairman of Howard University’s Department of Economics and a professor of urban economics there since 1977, proposed deep solutions for a deep crisis. But he detailed the economic woes the country has faced in recent years. “With massive unemployment, and weak demand, the president faced dire circumstances,” he said. “There were bank bailouts but the devastating losses of homeowners, workers and immigrants were not addressed. The focus of the economic debate continues to be the fiscal cliff, balancing the budget and cutting social programs.” More direct government involvement must happen so that distressed communities can begin to feel relief, Green said, and there has to be a focus on narrowing the significant income, health and wealth gaps that have become a feature of life in the United States. The recession has revealed flaws and weaknesses in the economy and the poor and middle class have been ravaged by
See SUMMIT on Page 9 www.washingtoninformer.com
around the region “Black people have been denied the opportunity to earn income, get higher incomes and advance in those jobs. There are notable disparities in employment for African Americans and whites who have similar educational levels and the reasons for that is substantial discrimination.” – Bernard E. Anderson SUMMIT continued from Page 8 “rabid capitalism,” he said. “The fundamental problem is that economic viability means serving the needs of capitalists,” Green said. “All of the benefits from increased productivity had accrued to producers. The current crisis is global. There is no recovery for workers. The federal government paid $700 billion in bailouts and other benefits and businesses are effectively on strike. They hold $2 trillion in cash, $5 trillion including international holdings. They have deserted financial instruments and gone to more exotic forms of making money. This has meant a decline in actual economic activity which has not restored a modicum of relief for workers.” It seems that every solution creates another problem and cap-
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italism is creating its own problems. In much the same way that mass movements brought change for women and laborers, in the establishment of Social Security and other economic and social gains, another mass movement is needed, said Green. “We need to rebuild the movement,” he said, citing the Occupy Movement, the Arab Spring, the resurgence of labor in other countries and the uprising of indigenous ethnic groups in Latin America. Haydar Kurban, Ph.D., an associate professor in Howard’s Economics Department offered a bold $860 billion jobs plan proposed by the Chicago Political Economy Group to bring the country to full employment. “The private sector has failed to provide jobs. The failure has long-term implications and the federal government must do it,”
he said. “The size and role of U.S. public sector involvement must increase. We need to restructure the U.S. economy and this crisis presents the opportunity to restructure.” The job plan would produce four million jobs a year over five years, Kurban said. The private sector is slated to produce about 1.5 million jobs a year but job losses in the private sector due to wage and working conditions competition stands at 1 million jobs a year. That means there is a need to produce 3.5 million jobs per year through direct or indirect government action. “It should reach all segments, roads, bridges and schools,” said Kurban. The median salary would be $18.47 an hour or $38,000 a year. Kurban said a tax on speculation in financial markets would pay for the jobs plan. wi
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Fiduciary Panel Attorney - Superior Court of the District of Columbia - Probate Division Former DC Fraud Bureau Examiner - Insurance Administration Former Law Clerk for the American Civil Liberties Union (ACLU)
Feb. 14, 2013 - Feb. 20, 2013
9
AROUND THE REGION
Gray Gets Mixed Reviews on Re-Entry Plan By James Wright WI Staff Writer Leaders of organizations who help returning citizens in the District have mixed feelings about a recently launched program designed to assist individuals in obtaining job training and placement. D.C. Mayor Vincent Gray (D) announced on Jan. 23 that a memorandum of understanding had been signed between District and federal agencies to work toward reintegrating returning citizens into mainstream society. Gray, 70, said that the plan, known as the D.C. Re-Entry Initiative with a component that includes a resource center, is necessary to help returning citizens live full and productive lives. “No one can deny that incarceration has had a major impact on our community both socially and economically, with tens of thousands of District residents who have been involved in the criminal justice system at some point,” the mayor said.
“Re-integration and social connectivity are keys to a safer society. We must do everything possible to ensure that every individual seeking an opportunity to turn their lives around after incarceration has a place to come and begin the process.” Gray said that “this resource center [One City Re-entry Resource Center for Returning Citizens] will be a place where returning citizens can learn the skills that will enable them to turn their lives around.” Statistics indicate that approximately 60,000 District residents are incarcerated, on probation or on parole, with 90 percent of those being African American. Many returning citizens have difficulty securing housing and finding jobs. The Office on Returning Citizen Affairs (OCRA), which is led by Charles Thornton, is charged with putting the mayor’s initiative into action. However, Gray’s effort brings a smile to the face of Yango Sawyer, co-founder of the Coalition of Returning Citizens.
“I think it is a great idea to put resources in one location and you don’t have to go across town,” said Sawyer, who lives in Southeast. “[People] expect returning citizens to come back home and work miracles as far as finding employment and a place to live is concerned. OCRA needs to have more money to do its job.” Roach Brown, the founder and director of Inner Voices, a prison drama troupe, and a nationally known advocate for returning citizens, agrees with Sawyer. “It is a step in the right direction to have a one-stop shop for returning citizens,” said Brown, 68. “I think however that ORCA needs an increase in its budget.” Sawyer points out that there are instances where individuals have been incarcerated for decades and when they return to the District, they lack the necessary life skills to gain employment or to function in society. “There is no computer training in prison,” he said. “Some guys come out and cannot use a computer and that hurts them in their job search. Many of these guys have no place to stay and housing becomes a big problem.” The housing issues are what concerns Deborah Rowe, the
Roach Brown. /Courtesy Photo
executive director of Returning Citizens United in Northeast, an advocacy organization. Rowe, who is skeptical of Gray’s initiative, said that “housing is the greatest need that returning citizens have” and other issues such as substance abuse and health care should be addressed. “I am not too impressed with the mayor’s program because it is too vague,” said Rowe, 53. “We have job training programs for returning citizens so [why] do we need a one-stop shop? I am confused about what this resource center will do.” Rowe said returning citizens need jobs.
“We have a number of returning citizens who have four, five, six certifications walking around with no jobs,” she said. “These people need jobs. I don’t see a real commitment from the mayor on this.” Nonetheless, Sawyer remains optimistic about what Gray is attempting to do. “We need to lay a successful foundation for re-entry in this city and I think this initiative does that,” he said. “Coming home from being incarcerated is not as easy as people think because there are many obstacles to overcome.” wi
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Washington Informer to Present Movie Screening for Black History Month
“Brown Babies” tells story of biracial children born in Germany in World War II
T
he Washington Informer, in partnership with Wells Fargo, McMillon Communications, The Foundation for the Advancement of Music and Education Inc ( FAME), and Bowie State University Department of Fine and Performing Arts, will present a film that speaks about a little known by-product of Black soldiers in World War II . Former news personality Doris McMillon discovered she was one of the nearly 5,000 brown babies adopted and raised by a black American couple. Her story, specifically her own search for her biological parents, is credited with inspiring the “Brown Babies” documentary. Doris, who is featured in the film, will be part of a discussion panel after the film and will also be available to sign her memoir “Mixed Blessing,” which is a must read. Regina Griffin is the Executive Producer of Brown Babies: The Mischlingskinder Story. She is an Emmy award-winning news producer formerly of CBS News and is currently Executive Producer at WUSA-TV. Regina, who is very passionate about her production, will also be a part of the post film discussion panel shared the following with The Washington Informer.
Unusual Causalities of War By Regina Griffin
Black History Month is not generally a time when we talk about war and its impact on children and families. But for just a moment, imagine scrubbing your skin raw trying to wash the brown color off, or being taken for a swim only to have a caregiver try to drown you, or being told your only options in life is to become a nun or a prostitute. These are just some of the horrifying stories told in the powerful, award-winning documentary, Brown Babies: The Mischlingskinder Story. Brown Babies exposes this shameful piece of history that much of the world has forgot-
ten. The film tells the stories of the lives of biracial, bicultural children of African American GIs and German women during post World War II occupation of Germany. These ignored, unwanted and forgotten children were placed in orphanages and left to live without the love and support of their parents and their countries, Germany and the United States. Making Brown Babies was indeed a labor of love. I poured my heart, soul and resources into this project, believing these stories to be an important part of Black history, of American history, of world history. It has been my hope that people want to learn more about the children born, not just out of post occupation Germany, but during and after any cross cultural conflict. As a journalist, as a storyteller, I wanted to tell the story. Doris McMillon, whose story is among those featured, is an award winning journalist and CEO of McMillon Communications, Inc. For her, the message underscored in Brown Babies remains relevant even though the events occurred over 60 years ago. “Brown Babies is really a continuation of what has played out in different parts of the world where soldiers from other countries come to fight and end up in relationships with the women of the country they occupy,” McMillon said. “As with any war in a foreign country, children conceived out of wedlock are often silent casualties. Their mothers can’t afford to keep them and their fathers leave no financial support to take care of these children after the war has ended. I am proud to have our story told and am hopeful that the light shed will promote awareness that transcends race and time,” she shared. Brown Babies: The Mischlingskinder Story won Best Documentary at the 2011 American Black Film Festival. It has been featured on CNN and earned the distinction of Best Film at the African-American Women in Cinema Film Festival (New York City) and was HBO Best Documentary finalist at the 2011
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Brown Babies: The Mischlingskinder Story won Best Documentary at the 2011 Martha’s Vineyard Black Film American Black Film Festival. It has been Festival. Brown Babies continfeatured on CNN and earned the distincues to garner national and local attention. tion of Best Film at the African-American To learn more about Brown Women in Cinema Film Festival (New Babies: The Mischlingskinder Story, schedule interviews and York City) and was HBO Best Documenreview the schedule for upAROUND THE atREGION tary finalist the 2011 Martha’s Vinecoming screenings, visit www. brownbabiesproject.com yard Black Film Festival.
Courtesy Photo
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Feb. 14, 2013 - Feb. 20, 2013
11
PRINCE GEORGE’S COUNTY
Bids Being Accepted for Prince George’s County Casino By Gale Horton Gay WI Staff Writer The race to win Prince George’s County casino contest is officially underway. Maryland’s Video Lottery Facility Location Commission released a 110-page request for proposals (RFP) on Feb. 6 for construction and operation of a high-end Las Vegas-style casino. Proposals are due to the commission by May 10, with a pre-proposal conference for potential bidders scheduled for Feb. 27. The RFP was distributed to 200 individuals, organizations and businesses. However, a
Maryland Lottery official said that list includes construction companies, lobbyists, anyone who expressed “any sort of interest” in the project. An official with MGM Resorts International, which last year joined forces with National Harbor developer The Peterson Companies to develop a destination resort casino at National Harbor, said they have been doing their homework for months. “Our interest in Maryland is unabated,” said Lorenzo Creighton, president of MGM National Harbor. “We view Prince George’s County and National Harbor as one of the strongest untapped destination resort markets in the country. Although
/Courtesy Photo
the call for proposals was just released, we’ve been studying the market for months, meeting with constituents and listening to their concerns and wishes for
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their community. Our experts are busy drawing up designs and programming for a resort that will be unique to this location, its history and community.” MGM Resorts International has resorts and casinos in Nevada, Mississippi, Michigan, Illinois and China. Penn National Gaming (PNG), operator of 20 horse racing venues and casinos in the United States and Canada including Rosecroft Raceway in Fort Washington, is another possible bidder. Karen Bailey, PNG’s director of public affairs, said her firm is contemplating applying for the license but had no additional details to share. Prior to last fall’s public vote on the addition of a casino in Prince George’s County, Bailey said PNG was being squeezed out of consideration for development of the casino and predicted that if the measure passed, Rosecroft would likely be forced to close. “Rosecroft is not going to have a fair shot,” she said at the time. The RFP specifies that the casino site will be within a foursquare-mile area of the coun-
ty near Bock and St. Barnabus roads. The casino would have no more than 3,000 slots as well as table games. Those hoping to operate the casino must pay a $3 million license fee per each 500 slots proposed, which goes to the state’s Education Trust Fund, and be prepared to provide at least a $25 million investment for construction per each 500 slots. In return, the casino operator gets to keep 38 percent of the casino’s slots revenue and 80 percent of the proceeds from table games. Maryland’s three casinos – in Cecil, Worcester and Anne Arundel counties – generated $45 million in revenue in January. And to apparently ensure that Baltimore City’s casino – a $375 million Harrah’s expected to open in 2014 – gets off to a good start, the commission has specified that the casino at National Harbor cannot open until July 1, 2016 or 30 months after the Baltimore casino opens. The license will be good for 15 years and in the final year the operator can re-apply. The commission expects to choose the operator of the Prince George’s County casino in late 2013. wi
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on the Arts and Humanities, a public grant-making agency that supports cultural development in the city, and was a project manager at the Office of the Deputy Mayor for Planning and Economic Development. “Our goal is to increase the
number of children in our community who have access to a quality education, graduate from high school, obtain college or vocational degrees and become successful in their careers and communities,” Scales added. “We’re thrilled to receive this pivotal funding.” wi
DCPNI Executive Director Ayris T. Scales headed up the writing of a federal grant that secured a $25 million fund for the organization. /Photo courtesy of Justin D. Knight, Howard University
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By Michelle Phipps-Evans WI Staff Writer The new head of a District nonprofit has raised the organization’s profile by winning a $25 million grant from the federal government in December. The DC Promise Neighborhood Initiative (DCPNI) will receive funding over a five-year period from the U.S. Department of Education to provide wrap around services and support to children and their parents in the Kenilworth-Parkside community in Ward 7. “We proposed a model that was centered around children and parents simultaneously,” said Ayris T. Scales, DCPNI’s executive director since April 2012 about the grant write up. “It was a very different approach, based on a two-generational model where education reform is about community empowerment through parental engagement.” The grant will be used to apply this model approach where both parents and children have their needs met, expand staff, increase community outreach, strengthen partnerships and programming, and monitor DCPNI’s success, said Scales, an Ohio native and Ward 7 resident who’s in her 30s. “This is not a gift, it’s an investment,” said U.S. Secretary for Education Arne Duncan when he announced the Promise Neighborhood award at a press conference in December. DCPNI is one of 60 Promise Neighborhoods – part of the White House Neighborhood Revitalization Initiative – that seeks to align federal funding to help transform neighborhoods of poverty into those of opportunity. DCPNI was one of seven communities to win the implementawww.washingtoninformer.com
tion grant, out of 60 applicants. In 2010, it was one of 21 to secure a planning grant. Since its founding in 2008, DCPNI has offered a continuum of cradle-to-career services to the Kenilworth-Parkside community in Northeast. Its broad coalition of partners – D.C. Public Schools (DCPS), D.C. Housing Authority, and the Children’s National Medical Center – currently operate programs serving more than 1,000 children. The grant will support two DCPS schools, Neval Thomas Elementary and Kenilworth Elementary, which is slated to close this July; and two public charter schools, Chavez Parkside Middle School and Chavez Parkside High School, which were founded by Irasema Salcido. Although Kenilworth will close, Scales said she received a commitment from DCPS Chancellor Kaya Henderson who will continue to support DCPNI. “I don’t know what that looks like but we have her commitment,” she said. DCPNI is housed at Kenilworth and Scales is hoping that the organization can stay. In 2008, Salcido, who founded Cesar Chavez Public Charter Schools for Public Policy, convened a small group of community residents from the area to discuss ways that Chavez and its Parkside campus neighbors could partner to promote academic achievement and college access. While the two other Chavez campuses on Capitol Hill and Columbia Heights were doing well, the Parkside Middle and Upper Schools, which draw about a third of the enrollment from the community, suffered below-average test scores during their first years of operation.
More than half of the children in the four schools are not proficient in reading or math, 50 percent of residents live below the poverty line, and nearly 90 percent of the families are headed by single mothers. “Data shows that by helping the moms, the entire family will succeed as she’ll advocate for the children,” said Sharita Slayton, 48, DCPNI director of resident engagement for the last two years and a three-term elected advisory neighborhood commissioner. The growing body of evidence shows that interventions must address the needs of both vulnerable children and their parents, particularly mothers. Scales said the two-model approach was personal. “I’m coming at this position from a very personal place,” said Scales, a single mother of a teenager. Scales’ parents divorced by the time she was seven. “My mom decided she wanted to go to college when I was four. She wanted to improve the quality of life for me and my brothers.” She saw her mother every night, after taking care of her family, pulling out the books to study. “What a powerful image that is for a child,” said Scales, adding that her mother became the first in the family to attend college. “Things were going on around us, and she was focused. She was a role model.” Scales earned a bachelor’s degree from Kent State University in Ohio and is an alum of the National Urban Fellows Program where she earned a master’s from Baruch College in New York. Before heading up DCPNI, Scales served as an interim executive director for the D.C. Commission The Washington Informer
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Feb. 14, 2013 - Feb. 20, 2013
13
NATIONAL
Magic Johnson Brings AIDS Message to Howard By Barrington M. Salmon WI Staff Writer Despite contracting the HIV virus, basketball great Earvin “Magic” Johnson has not only defied the odds but also forever changed the way people look at the disease. Johnson still remembers the day in 1991 when he was told he had the virus. “It’s been 22 years that God has blessed me to be here. When I got a call, I was in Utah at an exhibition game and I was told I had to fly back to Los Angeles,” said Johnson during remarks he made at Howard University on Feb. 7. “I was a young man in the prime of my career. We’d won championships all those years. I asked ‘how could this happen to me?’” “I was devastated, frustrated, worried because my wife was pregnant. I went back-and-forth wondering how to tell my wife
…” Johnson, the 53-year-old business mogul, said he was preparing himself if his wife, Cookie, decided to bail on the marriage. “Great partners always know when something is wrong,” said Johnson, who was at the Northwest campus to mark the opening of the Magic Johnson Sub Connection at the Howard University Hospital cafeteria. “She was crying, I was helpless, so was she. I told her I’d understand if she wanted to leave. She hit me so hard when I said that. We dropped on our knees and prayed. It was a blessing.” “It took us a week or two to hear that she and the baby were OK. Now I could take this challenge on and live the next 22 years.” Johnson, a father of three, created a sensation during his visit with hospital staff, faculty and school employees craning their necks to see him, snapping
Magic Johnson encourages employees at the new Magic Johnson Sub Connection at Howard University Hospital in Northwest. /Photo courtesy of Justin D. Knight, Howard University
pictures on their phones and inveigling him to pose for pictures. The crowd of hospital staff, physicians, medical residents, business students and other guests in the Dr. H. Lesley Howard Auditorium bubbled with excitement. The affair resembled a love fest
with the audience hanging on his every word, engaging in spirited bouts of call-and-response, with individuals finishing his sentences and people’s obvious admiration present on their faces. Johnson didn’t spend any time at the lectern. He grabbed a microphone and strode up and down the aisles as he discussed his work on AIDS awareness, his transition from sports to business and expounded on different elements of his multimillion dollar empire. Johnson’s visit coincided with Black AIDS Day and he lamented about the casualness that pervades the thinking of young people who believe they won’t fall victim to the disease. When Johnson made his announcement
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that he was HIV positive, such news amounted to a death sentence. His vow to best the disease was likely looked on as the noble sentiments of a man who was dead and didn’t know it. But in the years since, Johnson has defied the odds. “No, I’m not on any magical drugs. That sure would be magic,” he said with his trademark million-dollar smile. “I’m on three drugs and the cocktail has worked to perfection with me. The only difference is that I take my meds and I’m cool with my status.” “I walk the same way – you see me,” said Johnson as he squared his shoulders and eased effortlessly down the aisle to the front of the auditorium. “My doctor told me to take my meds, have a positive attitude and exercise. I want to see my daughter walk down the aisle and help my grown sons.” Johnson, the first African American to become a major owner of a Major League Baseball franchise – the LA Dodgers – said he’s committed to helping educate everyone he meets how to avoid HIV and AIDS and if they have it, how to live as full and enriching a life as his. “Get tested,” he said. “There’s misinformation in our community. I had a couple of years of dealing with that. I had to educate people on the fly and I was being educated on the fly too. That was tough … my No. 1 thing is to educate my people.” Johnson cited recent statistics that two years ago, people of color made up 55 percent of See JOHNSON on Page 15
14 Feb. 14, 2013 - Feb. 20, 2013
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NATIONAL JOHNSON continued from Page 14
Magic Johnson talks to the crowd at Howard University Hospital about HIV/AIDS, his business empire and the importance of being prepared when a business opportunity arises. /Photo by Khalid Naji-Allah
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new cases. Though that figure has dipped to 44 percent, Johnson said much still needs to be done. “People 24 to 30 make up the bulk of cases,” he explained. “They need the right information. You have to say, ‘whoa, it can happen to me.’” He said AIDS advocates are doing a better job of getting accurate information out. “For me, it’s a great situation being the face of AIDS … it’s been a great journey for me.” But Johnson, winner of five NBA championship rings with the Los Angeles Lakers, has also become the face of entrepreneurial success. Magic Johnson Enterprises offers products and services that focus primarily on ethnically diverse and underserved urban communities. His business partnerships include Canyon Johnson, a $1 billion dol-
lar real estate fund; Yucaipa Johnson, a $500-million-dollar private equity fund; SodexoMagic; Starbucks; and Inner City Broadcasting Corporation. He also owns a multi-cultural media company that controls Soul Train, Vibe and Uptown magazines. The company has more than 50,000 employees in 35 states and 135 cities, and has helped revitalize underserved and inner-city communities that are often overlooked by other companies. What he understood that other companies didn’t, Johnson said, is the amount of disposable income in urban areas. He used his discussions with Starbucks CEO Howard Schultz to highlight that reality. “I laid it out to him. We like coffee too but we have to go too far to get it. We have loyal customers and disposal income.” He was accompanied by Sodexo officials who are his partners
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in the Howard University cafeteria project. Johnson encouraged young people in the audience to follow their dreams as he did, have a plan, make sure they’re prepared, “and when you get the opportunity, don’t blow it.” “I had money I’d earned and saved,” Johnson said. “I wanted to invest in my community.” His first investment was a Pepsi distributorship with [Black Enterprise founder] Earl Graves in Cheverly, Md. That was followed by the Magic Johnson theaters, Starbucks and other building blocks of his empire. “When you believe in yourself, you’ve done your research and lined [everything] up, [and] then you can go out and be bold,” he said with a laugh. “… I love what I do, sending minorities out to work … I try to make wise decisions that not only affect me but my people too.” wi
Feb. 14, 2013 - Feb. 20, 2013
15
CP SIDE 1
business Business Exchange
A Black Renaissance Man and His Works “Direct my footsteps according to your Word” – Psalm 119:133 The gospel song, “Order My Feet in Your Word,” happens to be By William Reed a popular tune. It’s a good theme for life and a personal request to Sales Rep: God to “Prepare my goings in Final Visual AT rth Tue - 12/18/2012 - 9:45:49 your paths AM and not310503.8632 let evil rule tical techniques and applications. What procedures are involved over me.” However, to impose orif you want to “walk worthy” der on “your steps” requires practhrough life? A new and empowering book entitled, “The Spirit Within: Embracing God’s Living SpirIndividual • Business • Contractors • Self-Employed it for a Healthier Life,” just might Individual Returns be the answer. It’s a timely guide that helps readers “order” their lives in both practical and spiritual ways. Author Alan E. Miller 9470 Annapolis Road, Suite 108 Alleviate said, “Knowledge of God and Lanham, MD 20706 IRS Audits Business Returns his works in your life is empowerAmani Ahmed CPA, MS Taxation ing.” Miller said that “you can enFor FREE Tax Information visit us at www.agagroupllc.com joy a healthy life by having an ac• Tax Preparation & Planning • Annual & Quarterly Taxes • Late Filing/Multiple Year Filings • Bookkeeping & QuickBooks curate view of God in your heart • New Business Start-Ups & Incorporations: L LC’s & S-Corporations • IRS Audits • IRS Tax Settlements • Individual & Business Tax Notices and mind and letting that shape your life every day.” In Africans’ traditional life, spirituality is the foundation of one’s being. A believer’s destiny THIS IS A FINAL VISUAL OF YOUR AD. COLORS DISPLAYED HERE WILL NOT MATCH THE PRINTED AD EXACTLY. is bound up in spiritual pursuits throughout his life. In contemThis is not an opportunity to make changes. Thank you for choosing Valpak® Direct Marketing Systems, Inc. (“Valpak®”). porary America, many Blacks search for their “spiritual enlightenment” and “true selves.” But, empowerment is achieved only through utilization of fundamental leadership and management techniques. In the book, “The Spirit Within,” Miller shows readers “how to walk” in productive and spiritual ways. The book provides a combination of plans for one’s life, scripture references, and exercises to refresh your spirit, refine your life, and refocus your goals and passions. Miller said that “inspirational and religious book buyers, church members and leaders” are the target audience. He said it is a valuable tool that “no home should be without” and that “it should be read by every house member.” He said the book’s “first-hand accounts of spirituality” can lead to “better, healthier lifestyles.” In the “Spirit Scripture Index” section, readers can find a complete list of spiritual references that appear throughout the Bible. Traditional and contemporary studies relate happiness, morale, and health to spirituality. Many older Blacks are saying that “religion helps them cope or adapt
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with losses or difficulties.” For insights on “the Spirit inside each of us,” Black church groups, book clubs, parents and student groups, or other gatherings, should give Miller a call. Instead of booking the local TV weatherman, church members, business executives and organizations would do well in their outreach, training, spiritual coaching and fundraising utilizing Miller and his publication for their programs. In conjunction with the publication, the Miller Group also offers one-day seminars comprised of discussion groups, testimonies, and spiritual awareness sessions. “Freedom begins with the freeing of the mind and soul” said Miller. Regarded as a modern-day Renaissance man, Miller is an artist, published poet, accomplished playwright and a corporate diversity marketing counselor. Miller’s also a certified “Fruit of the Spirit” instructor. Better grounded than those whose job it is just to read the news on TV, Miller knows how to help navigate obstacles and chart paths to solid solutions. He appears on news networks and his writings have been featured in national publications. Miller has spoken at numerous seminars and taught business, diversity and entrepreneurial leadership classes across America. He’s created, developed and implemented Diversity Marketing program activities among industry and church audiences. Miller’s email is amillergroup@ aol.com. Successful marketing programs Miller has introduced are currently helping numerous religious and political organizations attract more members, connect with visitors and craft mission statements, core values, and branding. He and his organization can help you to create unique strategic plans to grow your organization or institution. The kind of special events the Miller Group can help create include extravaganzas such as gala dinner-dances, concerts, cruises, and major sporting events. Listed among the “Most Influential Blacks in Corporate America”, Miller is a management specialist and leading advocate for free market principles and economics. He’s a combination of corporate trainer and “holy roller.” Groups who engage with Miller can be at the cutting edge of technology and information transfer. wi William Reed is publisher of “Who’s Who in Black Corporate America” and available for projects via the BaileyGroup.org. www.washingtoninformer.com
NATIONAL
Obama Coaxes Congress in State of the Union By Barrington M. Salmon WI Staff Writer
A
relaxed, confident Barack Obama addressed the joint houses of Congress on Tuesday night and used the opportunity to introduce several new initiatives while cajoling members to work with him. The president’s opening statement set the tone for the evening when he quoted another young president during his fourth State of the Union address. “Fifty-one years ago, John F. Kennedy declared to this Chamber that “the Constitution makes us not rivals for power but partners for progress. It is my task to report the State of the Union – to improve it is the task of us all,” said Obama. “Tonight, thanks to the grit and determination of the
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American people, there is much progress to report. After a decade of grinding war, our brave men and women in uniform are coming home.” Obama entered the hall of the House of Representatives to loud and sustained applause as Democrats and Republicans put away their rancor and partisanship for the duration of the president’s speech. Throughout the speech, the president spoke repeatedly about the need to bolster and rebuild the country’s fragile economy and offered his prescription of moving the country forward. “After years of grueling recession, our businesses have created over six million new jobs,” Obama said. “We buy more American cars than we have in five years, and less foreign oil than we have in 20. Our housing market is healing, our stock mar-
ket is rebounding, and consumers, patients, and homeowners enjoy stronger protections than ever before.Together, we have cleared away the rubble of crisis, and can say with renewed confidence that the state of our union is stronger.” Obama called for the national minimum wageto be increased to $9 an hour; announced the formation of a non-partisan commission “to improve the voting experience of Americans”; pushed for “bipartisan, comprehensive immigration reform”; made a forceful but poignant call for gun legislation; proposed initiatives in manufacturing, housing; energy, and infrastructure; said he’d work with states to make high-quality preschool available to every child in America; and announced a new challenge to redesign America’s high schools so they better
equip graduates for the demands of a high-tech economy. The president also said he wants America to be the magnet for new jobs and manufacturing, and expressed his willingness to embrace additional reforms to Medicare “so long as they don’t violate the guarantee of a secure retirement.” Florida Sen. Marco Rubio offered a blistering critique in the Republican rebuttal to Obama’s State of the Union address. Rubio, 41, is the new face of the Republican Party and is expected to contend for the presidency in 2016. “Presidents in both parties – from John F. Kennedy to Ronald Reagan – have known that our free enterprise economy is the source of our middle class prosperity,” Rubio said. “But President Obama? He
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believes it’s the cause of our problems. That’s when’s the economic downturn happened because our government didn’t tax enough, spend enough and control enough. And, therefore, as you heard tonight, his solution to virtually every problem we face is for Washington to tax more, borrow more and spend more.” “This idea – that our problems were caused by a government that was too small – it’s just not true. In fact, a major cause of our recent downturn was a housing crisis created by reckless government policies.And the idea that more taxes and more government spending is the best way to help hardworking middle class taxpayers – that’s an old idea that’s failed every time it’s been tried.” wi
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health
NAACP Joins Fight against Soda Ban By Cyril Josh Barker Special to the Informer from NNPA As the controversy over Mayor Michael Bloomberg’s ban on large-sized sugary drinks continues, the New York NAACP has joined in the chorus against the ban and is backing a lawsuit saying that it’s an unfair attack on small, minority-owned businesses. Speaking on behalf of the chapter of the national civil rights organization, New York State Conference NAACP President Hazel Dukes said the soda ban is about economic fairness and that he’s bearing down on small businesses while giving big corporations a leg up. “As the new rules stand, small mom-and-pop stores in the city, which are disproportionately owned and operated by people of color, must comply with the law and suffer the financial consequences,” she said. “Meanwhile,
national chains like 7-Eleven, which can handle the financial loss, are exempt. You can’t be serious about banning big sodas when you have a loophole for Big Gulps.” Dukes is specifically talking about bodegas in neighborhoods. She added that while sugary drinks and sodas are an issue when it comes to obesity, she thinks other steps should be taken to make people healthier, including limiting the amount of unhealthy food and providing more opportunities for physical activities. “I live in Harlem, and when you go into the store, you usually don’t see water first, you have to go to the back,” she told the AmNews. “Sugary sodas are not the only thing contributing to obesity. We need more education about portions and about the other things we do. You have to take a holistic approach if you are serious about combating obesity, and the NAACP has been serious about it
/Courtesy Photo
for the five years.” The NAACP has been on the receiving end of donations from major beverage companies, including Coca-Cola, which recently donated $100,000 to the organization for health initiatives, which Dukes pointed out.
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makes suggestions including fully implementing the Healthy, Hunger-Free Kids Act, implementing new school meal standards and updating nutrition standards for snack foods and beverages in schools, and making physical education and physical activity a priority through the reauthorization of the Elementary and Secondary Education Act. In response to the New York NAACP’s criticism, Bloomberg said in his weekly radio address that he disagrees with the organization’s stance. The mayor even touted his family’s “small donation” to the NAACP when he was a child and how he’s always had a “soft spot” for the organization. Bloomberg went on to question “how they can look themselves in a mirror knowing they are hurting deliberately the life expectancy and the quality of life for the people that they’re supposed to serve.” Bloomberg’s soda ban was approved last year and restricts the serving of sugary drinks larger than 16 ounces in places like movie theaters, restaurants and bodegas. The ban goes into effect March 12.wi
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Beers Elementary Teacher Heart Surgeon Hails “Beet-Lozenge” Circulation Miracle! Lozenge Contains ‘Secret’ Inside to Better Blood Flow, Wins $25,000 Prize By Dorothy Rowley WI Staff Writer Each year in schools across the nation, exemplary teachers get the surprise of their lives when they’re honored with a $25,000 Milken Educator Award – an honorarium that’s considered one of education’s most coveted prizes. This year on Feb. 6, the light shined on the nation’s capital when the prestigious award, dubbed by Teacher Magazine as the “Oscar of Teaching,” was bestowed upon the unsuspecting Jacqueline Simms, a third-grade teacher at Anne Beers Elementary School in Southeast. Simms, like her school family, believed the special assembly last Wednesday was about student achievement. “I don’t know what to think. I feel like I’m getting an Oscar,” said a tearful Simms. “Since I was little, I always wanted to teach.” Amid the cheers of family members, students, faculty and staff along with District of Columbia Public Schools Chancellor Kaya Henderson and others, gathered in the school’s auditorium, Simms accepted the esteemed award as evidence of her exceptional teaching ability. It was Henderson, however, who had the honor of announcing that Simms – who nearly collapsed upon hearing her name – had won. “What a great day for DCPS,” Henderson exclaimed. “I’m so proud of Ms. Simms for the work she does in her classroom every single day. She’s an exceptional teacher – one who is making a difference and changing students’ lives. Just by being the star that she is, she’s showing everyone that DCPS can, and will help our students excel at the highest levels.” Simms, a graduate of Cardozo Senior High School in Northwest, has taught for the past 13 years. As for her award check, she can use it any way she pleases. In the meantime, Simms heads up Beers’ Incentive and Rewards program which acknowledges students for their exemplary conduct. Simms, who established a Saturday school for students in need of extra learning time, mentors student teachers and conducts home visits with parents during the summer to improve her school’s relationships with them. She also penned Beers’ affirmation statement which is recited every morning by students. The Milken Family Foundation (MFF) has recognized and rewarded www.washingtoninformer.com
outstanding educators with $25,000 cash awards since 1987. The awards alternate every year between elementary and secondary school teachers, and what sets the Milken prize apart from others award programs is that recipients – selected for achievements during their early to mid-career – have no idea they’ve been chosen. That is, not until the announcement is made. Conceived by Michael and Lowell Milken to attract, retain and motivate outstanding talent in the teaching profession, the program so far, has honored more than 2,500 educators. Having started with recognition of a few teachers in California, the program over the years has become a nationwide project, devoting more than $135 million in awards and other teacher career funding. “The idea behind these awards is that everyone likes to hand out prizes to our heroes,” MFF co-founder Mike Milken said. “We give Grammys to musicians, gold medals to Olympians, Nobels to scientists [but] nothing assures the success of a nation more than education . . . we give too little recognition to the people with society’s most important job – [and] nothing assures the success of a nation more than dedicated classroom teachers instilling a love of learning and sense of wonder in their students.” Beers Principal Gwendolyn Payton said Simms was definitely surprised by the honorarium. “She had no idea,” said Payton, 57. She added that Simms is the second Beers teacher in recent months to win a monetary award for teaching excellence. The other teacher, Valencia Hawkins, received $10,000, Payton said. “Ms. Simms is an example of the quality and the level of commitment we have among the staff at Beers,” said Payton. “Our school is a Rewards School [as the result of achievements that include high test scores] and [Ms. Simms] represents a culmination of what we are working so hard for . . . to me, this validates the fact that we have good teachers at Beers.” Beers PTA President Thomas Herndon, 42, added that “speaking from a parent’s point of view, it makes us feel that we have made the correct choices. Any time one of our teachers is rewarded, means that all of our teachers are being awarded because [organizations like MFF] are choosing from a special group,” he said.wi
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black history & Diversity By Shantella Y. Sherman
Civil Rights icon James Meredith sits in a classroom alone, having successfully integrated the University of Mississippi (Ole Miss). / Courtesy photo
In his new book, “A Mission from God: A Memoir and Challenge for America,” writes that chose Ole Miss as a target for integration because in 1960, it “was the holiest temple of white supremacy in America, next to the U.S. Capitol and the White House, both of which were under the control of segregationists and their collaborators. I reasoned that if I could enter the University of Mississippi as its first known Black student, I would fracture the system of state-enforced white supremacy in Mississippi. It would drive a stake into the heart of the beast.” Most counted James Meredith’s successful matriculation and challenge to social and scientific racism, a success. But what becomes a civil rights icon – still living in the South – after the initial battle transitions? For Judy Alsobrooks-Meredith, his wife, life with the 79-year-old
Meredith, continues to incorporate battles against injustice, along with a definitive sense of urgency. She recalls living in Gary, Indiana during the time he was attempting to enroll as a student at The University of Mississippi, having watched with her parents the Ole Miss saga unfold on television starting with the long court battle prior to his admission into the university. “I remember my church praying for him and his family’s safety. So, I was very much aware of his efforts, those of
Epilogue
J
ames Meredith’s integration of the University of Mississippi’s Law School in 1962 produced some one of American history’s most memorable images. The dapper, clean- cut Meredith being turned around several times at the registrar’s office, the then-governor Ross Barnett rallying local white supremacists and challenging President John Kennedy’s call for integration, Meredith’s class and study sessions, and eventually, Meredith being shot during a peace walk, all played out in the pages of Life, Look, Ebony, and Time.
Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr., and Malcolm X.” The couple met years later through mutual friends and after an intense 3-month courtship, married. In addition to sharing similar convictions, both hoped to help those suffering a “level of despair that resulted from racism especially in the Deep South.’ There has been some progress made in the 50 years since he integrated Ole Miss. Enrollment at the institution nearly 17 See MEREDITH on Page 24
Judy Alsobrooks Meredith, Wife of Civil Rights Icon James Meredith Talks Life and Resistance in the Shadows of the Civil Rights Movement After completing his degree, Meredith was shot three times during a 1962 March against Fear. Undeterred, Meredith would finish the march later in the year with Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. and others marching alongside him. / Courtesy photo.
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black history & Diversity MEREDITH continued from Page 23 percent, and its student body has elected both a handful of African American student body presidents, and its first-ever Black Homecoming Queen, Courtney Pearson in 2012. Today, in true James Meredith fashion, he declines participation in Ole Miss celebrations and commemorations of his integrating the campus, asking reporters “Did you find anything 50 years ago that I should be celebrating?” His focus instead, said Alsobrooks-Meredith, is clearly on Black youth. “James feels institutions such as Ole Miss, along with racist whites, are no longer the pressing problem, and that we, as Christian people, must now take responsibility for ourselves. His mission now is to convince Mississippi and America that we have failed our children in their upbringing; that if the educational system is not fixed, we as a people and a nation will see far worse times than ever,” Alsobrooks-Meredith said. “My greatest concern for him is his extreme worry about the state of affairs for Blacks today – it is much more important than his integration of Ole Miss in 1962 or his March against Fear in 1966,” Alsobrooks-Meredith said. While he remains steadfast and conscious of the racial and social injustices that continue to plague America, Meredith believes those injustices have permeated other areas of life for Blacks in Mississippi and America since the Civil Rights Era. Alsobrooks-Meredith points to the ongoing battle between Maryland’s four historically Black colleges and universities and the state, reminiscent of the Ayers Desegregation Case in Mississippi, where students are demanding parity in funding between white and black state funded institutions. “Certainly, this country’s issue of race and how it is handled continues to evolve and will do so through time. As one case or issue is, in part, settled, there are others to rear their proverbial ugly head. Social equity has not been accomplished and there will be no absolute and complete resolution in our time, if ever,” Alsobrooks-Meredith said. Understanding how unchecked violence often courts social movements, one wonders if the battles would not be better waged by younger, stronger
James and Judy Meredith attend the unveiling of a statue in his honor / Photo courtesy of Judy Alsobrooks-Meredith
Epilogue “When it comes to my rights as an American citizen, and yours, I am a triumphalist and an absolutist. Anything less is an insult” – James Meredith
Judy Alsobrooks-Meredith / Courtesy photo
men. The question is almost laughable to Alsobrooks-Meredith. “I actually have not had any concerns about James’ safety. I’m sure it’s because he absolutely has no fear. I’ve learned so much from James, and come to realize that those few people who risk their lives in that manner were indeed chosen by God to do His will. He does not feel he is a hero; nor does he understand why others say that he is,” she said. BHM
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James and Judy Meredith smile for the cameras during a college football game. / Courtesy photo.
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Kenneth J. Dunkley, the current president of Holospace Laboratories Inc., invented Three Dimensional Viewing Glasses (3-DVG). His patented invention displays 3-D effects from regular 2-D images. In 2012, 42% of moviegoers saw a 3D movie. Dunkley’s invention contributed to the proliferation of 3D movies and the integral part they play in the American movie-going experience. Nielsen proudly celebrates Black History Month and African American innovators like Kenneth J. Dunkley.
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T
By Shantella Y. Sherman
The
Joan Mulholland poses with a photo of her mugshot taken after her arrest in Jackson, MIssissippi during the Freedom Rides. / Photo by Shantella Y. Sherman
Jackson,” Mulholland said. On June 4, 1961, Mulholland arrived in Jackson, Miss. by train from New Orleans, LA as part of the Mississippi Freedom Ride and was immediately ushered into a waiting patty wagon. Her plan: serve the 2 month sentence in county jail during the summer, pay the $200 fine, and enter Tougaloo College when the fall semester began. Instead, Mulholland was sent to the notorious Parchman Prison. “We didn’t know they were sending us to the state penitentiary. Parchman was at the top of the list of worst prisons in the country – right up there with Angola in Louisiana. It was the stuff of legends. We were cut off from all means of communication and psychologically, it was bad for women,” Mulholland said. Sexual violence against female civil rights activists has been well-documented by historians like Danielle L. McGuire, whose book At the Dark End of the Street, details efforts by Southern law enforcement to deter female “agitators” by subjecting them to vaginal examinations and strip searches by male guards. “To make us fearful, the warden also emptied out death row and put us there. I was right next to the gas chamber. I joined the Freedom Riders because, for
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me, it was a chance to force the South to be true to itself and what it claimed at its core. We knew that the worse that could happen was death. When you reconciled that, there was nothing left to do but make it good,” Mulholland said. U.S. Congressman Bennie Thompson (D-Miss.) said of Mulholland, “In my mind, she is one of those sheroes who demands respect and acknowledgement. Clearly she was a lady ahead of her time.” Reunited recently with fellow Freedom Riders Dion Diamond and Reverend Reginald M. Green for a panel at First Rising Mt. Zion Baptist Church in Northwest, Mulholland told a capacity crowd that even in the most unlikely events, she found sprayings of change. “The moment I stepped out of the patty wagon at Parchman Prison and the officer reached out to take my hand and help me down – I was this sweet, young thing – and against everything that he may have believed in with regard to white women being involved in helping Blacks gain equal rights, he went to do what he had been taught to do, which was to help me. I felt there was hope. His instincts were in the right place. He immediately tried to withdraw his hand, but helped
Iconoclast
he term iconoclast -- a person who attacks settled beliefs or institutions – applies most fittingly to Freedom Rider Joan Trumpauer Mulholland. Having grown up in the Buckingham neighborhood of Arlington, Virginia during the1950s, Mulholland faced the conundrum of living an American ideal far removed from the realities of its white supremacist tenets. She remembers standing to sing “Dixie” and the pride of a community that counted Confederate Robert E. Lee as one of its sons. “I grew up in the South and realized that we were a bunch of hypocrites. In church we quoted Bible verses like ‘In as much as you have done it to the least of these, My brethren, you have done it unto Me,’ and in school we would recite the Declaration of Independence and earn gold stars from proper recitation proper. We knew these documents by heart but we did not follow their precepts,” Mulholland, 71, said. For clarity, she notes a classmate in high school who was a year behind because Virginia schools, faced with a desegregation order, chose instead to shutter the school system altogether to sidestep the ruling. At 19, Mulholland entered Duke University at the behest of her mother (“because it was a safely segregated institution”), but arrived in time to witness mass sit-ins and protests outside restaurants and general stores throughout Greensboro and Durham. Jarred by images of student (later journalist) Charlayne Hunter Gault being chased off a Georgia campus clutching the Madonna, Mulholland quickly joined the ranks of regular picketers in Durham, carrying signs that read “Target Democracy” and “Don’t Buy Where You Can’t Eat.” “I was arrested twice as a freshman at Duke and we had the school administration on our case. I left school rather than get expelled. I decided that if school integration was real, it worked in both directions so I applied to an historically Black institution, Tougaloo College outside of Jackson, Miss and was accepted. Tougaloo was also the center of civil rights activity in and around
“She was not an outside agitator, she was a white Southern woman and for that reason she was even more dangerous to the white supremacist power structure.” – Robert Luckett,
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Director of The Margaret Walker Center
Freedom Rider Joan Mulholland Recounts Civil Rights Diversity www.washingtoninformer.com
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Mulholland and fellow Freedom Rider Rev. Reginald Green, detail the impact of their arrests to a crowd at First Rising Mt. Zion Baptist Church in Northwest, Sat., February 9. / Photo by Shantella Y. Sherman
Participants of all ages queried Mulholland about how race and gender effected her civil rights activities. / Photo by Shantella Y. Sherman
MULHOLLAND continued from Page 26 me anyway. After all, there was a certain level of comfort in knowing that these (white) men were my relatives and had the ability to change based on my actions,” Mulholland said. Robert Luckett, Director of the Margaret Walker Center on the campus of Jackson State University, further explained Mulholland’s participation in the Freedom Rides as a type of treachery to white Southerners that was almost unfathomable. “She was not an outside agitator, she was a white Southern woman and for that reason she was even more dangerous to the white supremacist power structure. Here is this white Southern woman who is supposed to be protected by this system saying ‘I don’t need this protection and I don’t believe in the system.’ That made her extremely dangerous,” Luckett said. Today, Mulholland urges young people to get involved in the social change they want. “Young people are our future, www.washingtoninformer.com
but they must be able to learn from the past. There is always a ripple effect that goes beyond every small action. Some young teenagers and college students sitting down at a lunch counter and traveling the interstate highways caused such violent reactions that the President signed the Voting Rights Act and the Civil Rights Act, and ordered the desegregation of public accommodations. Those seemingly small acts issued the death nail to segregation,” Mulholland said. After the Freedom Rides, Mulholland studied at Tougaloo College and was a Freedom Summer organizer in 1964. She later worked at the Smithsonian with the Community Relations Service and at the Departments of Commerce and Justice before teaching English as a second language at an Arlington, VA elementary school. A new documentary about the life of Joan Mulholland, An Ordinary Hero, is scheduled for release later this month. BHM The Washington Informer
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black history & Diversity
Rosa Parks’
By Jeanne Theoharis Special to the Informer
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Parks’ Fable Diminishes History of Action
This fable diminishes the extensive history of collective action against racial injustice and underestimates the widespread opposition to the black freedom movement, which for decades treated Parks’ political activities as “un-American.” Most important, it skips over the enduring scourge of racial inequality in American society -- a reality that Parks continued to highlight and challenge -- and serves contemporary political interests that treat racial injustice as a thing of the past. A more thorough accounting of Parks’ political life offers a different set of reasons for the nation to honor her. Laboring in the 1940s and 1950s in relative obscurity, Parks and her colleague E.D. Nixon were among a small group who sought to transform Montgomery’s NAACP into a more activist branch, determined to register their dissent, even if they could deal no significant blow to white supremacy. Her stand led to significant economic and personal hardship for her family. In the early days of the boycott, both Rosa and her husband, Raymond Parks, lost their jobs. Eight months after the yearlong boycott ended, still unable
Stamp on
Rep. Gary Peters, D-Mich., Deputy Postmaster Elaine Steele, Rep. John Conyers, D-Mich., and Patricia Mooradian, president of The Henry Ford, unveil the Rosa Parks’ 100th birthday commemorative postage stamp in Dearborn, Mich., Monday, Feb. 4, 2013. / Photo courtesy of the USPS.
to find work, in poor health and continuing to face death threats, they left Montgomery for Detroit. There she did not rest, but joined with new and old comrades to fight the racism of her new hometown and American society more broadly.
Her Hero—Malcolm X
One of the greatest distortions of the Parks fable is the way it portrays her as meek, missing the resolute political sensibility that identified Malcolm X as her personal hero. Arriving in Detroit in 1957, she spent more than half her life fighting racial injustice in the Jim Crow North. Describing the city as the “Promised Land that wasn’t,” the Parks family lived in the “heart of the ghetto” and found racism in Detroit “almost as widespread as Montgomery.” Having volunteered on his upstart political campaign, Parks was hired in 1965 by the newly elected Rep. John Conyers, Jr., whom she helped win his congressional seat, to be part of his Detroit staff. There she worked on issues such as police brutality, open housing, welfare and job discrimination -the plagues of Northern racism. Her long-standing political commitments to self-defense, black history, economic justice, police accountability and black political empowerment intersected with key aspects of the Black Power movement, and she took
part in numerous mobilizations in the late 1960s and 1970s.
Outrage, Tenacity and Bravery
To the end of her life, Parks continued to stress the enduring need for social change, reminding Americans “not [to] become comfortable with the gains we have made in the last 40 years.” That lifetime of steadfastness and outrage, tenacity and bravery, is what deserves national veneration. Honoring her legacy means summoning similar audacity. It requires acknowledging that America is not a post-racial society and that the blight of racial and social injustice is deep and manifest. It entails a profound recommitment to the goals for which she spent a lifetime fighting -- a criminal justice system fair and just to people of color, unfettered voting rights, educational access and equity, real assistance to the poor, an end to U.S. wars of occupation and black history in all parts of school curricula. Finally, it means heeding her words to Spelman College students: “Don’t give up, and don’t say the movement is dead.” BHM Jeanne Theoharis is professor of political science at Brooklyn College of the City University of New York and the author of the new biography, The Rebellious Life of Mrs. Rosa Parks. See, hear or read the transcript of an extensive interview with the author about Rosa Parks on Democracy Now.
The United States Postal Service Black Heritage Stamp series has featured several African American women, including Bessie Coleman, Marian Anderson, Anna Julia Cooper, Barbara Jordan, and Hattie McDaniel.
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– Courtesy photos The Washington Informer
American History
o honor the centennial of the birth of Rosa Parks on Feb. 4, 1913, the United States Postal Service has issued a Rosa Parks stamp. Last year, a stone carving of Parks was added to the National Cathedral. In 2005, she became the first woman and second African American to lie in honor in the nation’s capital and, through a special act of Congress, a statue of her was ordered placed in the Capital. Yet these tributes to Rosa Parks rest on a narrow and distorted vision of her legacy. As the story goes, a quiet Montgomery, Ala., seamstress with a single act challenged Southern segregation, catapulted a young Martin Luther King Jr. into national leadership and ushered in the modern civil rights movement. Parks’ memorialization promotes an improbable children’s story of social change -- one not-angry woman sat down, the country was galvanized and structural racism was vanquished.
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black history & Diversity
By Shevry Lassiter
Viewp int Olivia Reynolds Bowie, MD Black women have made quite a bit of progress. Women like Michelle Obama and Condoleeza Rice have held prestigious positions paved the way for other women by inspiring and mentoring them personally and professionally.
“How would you define the social, educational, and economic progress Black women have made since Emancipation?”
Doris Goode Northwest, DC Black women have made major strides socially and professionally, but still can go further. One major issue is that despite the amazing work that women in general and Black women in particular do, there is little pay equity between them and their male counterparts. In that regard, there is still a long way to go.
Patrick Bethea Northeast, DC I think Black women have made tremendous progress in America. This can be seen in the fact that they get the majority of high paying, professional jobs. Black women are also more successful than Black men in terms of accessing opportunities for jobs and education. T:9.5”
Mike Alvear Las Vegas, NV I’ve think Black women have done great! Since the Civil Rights movement, we’ve had Rosa Parks and Condoleeza Rice; those are two prominent women who immediately come to my mind. Regina Benjamin, the surgeon general, is another extraordinary Black woman. Black women have come a long way and they should be proud of that, I know I would.
Glenda Blackmon Northeast, DC Black women have made some progress, but still do not have equal pay and based on that, still have a long way to go.
Whether it’s behind the scenes, in the scenes or never before seen, XFINITY® recognizes the expressions of the African-American experience that have enriched all of our lives.
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XFINITY celebrates Black History Month with a Journey through Black Entertainment. Enjoy hit movies, TV shows, videos and interviews highlighting the African-American experience. The journey begins January 21st and continues at xfinity.com/celebrateblacktv
© 2013 Comcast. All rights reserved.
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black history & Diversity
Read More about Them
The role of women in the fight for civil and social rights cannot be overstated. As one Freedom Rider explained recently, “Black women rarely had hold of the microphone, sometimes because of sexism, but they wrote the speeches, they organized the marches, planned the boycotts, took part in the sit-ins and demonstrations, and were beaten, arrested, sexually assaulted, and dehumanized for their efforts alongside the men.” In the interim, these women earned degrees, reared families, inspired a new generation of God-fearing and patriotic Americans, and shared their love for life. The Washington Informer encourages its readers to study the vibrant history of African American women.
Black Women as Cultural Readers, by Jacqueline Bobo This work demonstrates that African-American women, as a separate interpretive community, view cultural products in a unique way. In interviews with black women, she examines their specific responses as spectators and consumers of films and novels, including Waiting to Exhale, The Color Purple, and Daughters of the Dust.
Living with Jim Crow: African American Women and Memories of the Segregated South, by Anne Valk and Leslie Brown
This groundbreaking book collects Black women’s personal recollections of their public and private lives during the period of legal segregation in the American South. Using first-person narratives, collected through oral history interviews, the book emphasizes women’s role in their families and communities, treating women as important actors in the economic, social, cultural, and political life of the segregated South. By focusing on the commonalities of women’s experiences, as well as the ways that women’s lives differed from the experiences of southern black men, Living with Jim Crow analyzes the interlocking forces of racism and sexism.
When Chickenheads Come Home to Roost by Joan Morgan In this fresh, funky, and ferociously honest book, award-winning journalist Joan Morgan bravely probes the complex issues facing African-American women in today’s world: a world where feminists often have not-so-clandestine affairs with the most sexist of men; where women who treasure their independence often prefer men who pick up the tab; and where the deluge of babymothers and babyfathers reminds Black women who long for marriage that traditional nuclear families are a reality for less than 40 percent of the African-American population.
Among Our Top Picks
CELEBRATING 150 YEARS OF THE EMANCIPATION PROCLAMATION ANNOUNCING THE D.C. LOTTERY’S 2013 BLACK HISTORY POSTER
Posters available FREE to the public at your neighborhood D.C. Public Library.
Find out more about the D.C. Lottery’s 2013 Black History poster at dclottery.com
30 Feb. 14, 2013 - Feb. 20, 2013
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T:9.5”
T:12.37”
WILL PACKER
Aspiring Film Student
Film Producer, Social Media Expert
WILL PACKER STOMPED BOX OFFICE SALES. WHAT WILL YOU DO? This Black History Month, Verizon celebrates those whose inner strength has shaped the world. From the innovator who used social media to break box office records, to all of those like you, aspiring to break ground. Visit vzw.com/innovate. Let the stories of today’s pioneers and innovators inspire you to realize your dreams and craft your own story. Living history as you make it. That’s powerful. Visit vzw.com/innovate
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black history & Diversity
I
n the Spring of 1989, Pulitzer Prize winning photographer Brian Lanker, released a book of photographs like no other. “I Dream a World: Portraits of 75 Black Women Who Changed America,” captured the beauty, resilience, and vibrancy of some of America’s most celebrated African American women. Now in its 14th printing, the portraits were showcased as an exhibition at the Corcoran Gallery of Art in Washington, DC, breaking attendance records for that museum, in the process. The book sold more than 450,000 copies during its first decade in print. “I really did it more for history-and thought it was important to have a book like this around
50 or 75 years from now so that people could look back and understand whose shoulders they were standing on,” Lanker once said. “And I think it’s not about photography per se...I certainly didn’t try to exercise my craft to the highest level I might have been able to, under the circumstances, but the book is there not because of me, but because of the women.” The idea for the book came to Lanker because he found himself continually running across stories about notable African American women while he was reading or watching television. He said he “realize[d] how important they really were...and how no one had brought them together as a group to really speak to the overall strength and importance of these women.” Award-winning poet-writer Maya Angelou, who was one of his subjects, also wrote the original introduction. In it she
Actress Cicely Tyson and Educator / Civil Rights Leader, Septima Poinsette Clark were among Lanker’s subjects. / Courtesy photos.
asserts, “These women have descended from grandmothers and great grandmothers, who knew the lash firsthand, and to
B. Doyle Mitchell, Jr. and Patricia Mitchell have collaborated to produce the History of Industrial Bank in a new illustrated book. As part of the critically acclaimed Images of America Series, the book chronicles the history of this prestigious black owned institution from its founding in 1934 by Jesse H. Mitchell with images from the Industrial Bank archives and the Scurlock Studio Records. The Bank’s story is vividly brought to life celebrating the celebrities, politicians, community activists, employees, and valued customers that have played such an important role in the history of the Bank, the city, and the nation.
Highlights of Industrial Bank: Rising from the Depression Building the Bank Celebrating milestones and successes Connecting to the community and customers
whom protection was a phantom known of, but seldom experienced...But they are whole women. Their hands have brought children through blood to life, nursed the sick, and folded the winding cloths. Their wombs have held the promise of a race which has proven to each challenging century that despite threat and mayhem it has come to stay. Their feet have trod the shifting swampland of insecurity, yet they have tried to step neatly into the footprints of mothers who went before. They are not apparitions; they are not superwomen. They are not larger than life.” At 63, after returning home from an assignment, in March 2011, Lanker was diagnosed with pancreatic cancer, which would claim him in just ten days. “I don’t think I really understood the double minority until I read The Color Purple,” Lanker once said. “I saw myself, a white man, and I realized so much more the oppression that men in general are responsible for.” BHM
Beauty Personified
By Ronda Smith Special to the Informer
On the Eve of its 25th Anniversary,
Continuing the legacy
Copies are available at www.arcadiapublishing.com
I Dream a World
Still Captures African American Beauty
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The Washington Informer
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Mother and Daughter
black history & Diversity
Graduate Together By Malika A. Wright Special to the Informer
W
hile walking across the stage, dressed in her cap and gown, Ronae Cambridge, lifted her hands and head in honor of her late mother who always wanted her to go to college, thinking “I know you see me.” It was the joyous day that she had always envisioned. When she was 25, she had prophesied that she would do it, saying “I’m going to graduate from college even if I’m 50.” And at the age of 58, Cambridge was receiving her Master of Social Work, but what made that moment even more extraordinary and amazing was that her daughter, Chavonne Troutman, 24, was graduating with her and also receiving a MSW. The mother-daughter duo overcame their struggles by helping each other with studying for their bachelors and masters at Barry University. Now that they have been thoroughly equipped for good works, they plan on continuing to help others and also expanding their efforts of service. Cambridge and Troutman both started their undergraduate studies in ’06. Cambridge had retired from her job of 32 years as a paralegal and Troutman was fresh out of high school. Cambridge, a mother of four adult children, said she was motivated to go back to school because of her ministry. She is the senior pastor of Glory Temple Ministries — a church and one of the largest food banks in Miami that feeds hundreds of people in need each week. “I retired to devote myself full time to my ministry,” Cambridge said. “Once I got there I realized that I didn’t have enough knowledge to be as effective as I could, so the holy spirit said to me ‘go to school, so that you can really help the community and those who are in need.’”
Enduring the Post-Secondary Climb
Troutman, who once considered not seeking higher education, said it was her mother who had encouraged her to go to college and then grad school. www.washingtoninformer.com
“I was going to be OK with working a customer service job,” Troutman said. “But my mom motivated and inspired me to just do it, and I want to be able to inspire the people around me, like my niece and (one day) my children so that when they look at me they can say ‘she did it, so I have to do it as well.’” While pursuing their degrees, the duo often turned to each other for help. There were nights were Troutman had writers’ block and Cambridge stayed up and encouraged her. There were other times when Cambridge struggled with technological assignments and got her daughter’s assistance in making charts. They both stuck it out during the tough times even, while juggling other obligations and responsibilities. While studying at Barry, Cambridge became the caretaker of her oldest son who had suffered a major stroke. She nursed him night-and-day while running the food bank and leading the church. “She was doing her internship, her school work and leaving her internship to make sure my brother was OK,” Troutman said. “She was doing all of that and balancing everything.” Cambridge said her higher education has helped her become a better writer and speaker, and improved her organization skills at her ministry. Troutman, who is passionate about working with juveniles and relationship therapy, has actively been seeking employment since graduating in December, while helping her mom’s ministry. Cambridge said she plans on using her education to expand the ministry by adding services like, marriage and family therapy. She also plans to continue to partner with other organizations for the good of the community. Troutman and Cambridge described graduating together as both unbelievable and surreal. “I would have to believe that God has a bigger purpose than we ever imagined,” Cambridge said. “I think he has something for us to do in this community to really make an impact and a difference.” BHM
Chavonne Troutman (left) and Ronae Cambridge pose at their commencement ceremony. / Photo courtesy Barry University
2013 National Black History Theme At the Crossroads of Freedom and Equality: The Emancipation Proclamation and the March on Washington Artist: Charles Bibbs ASALH - The Founders of Black History Month Howard University-The Howard Center 2225 Georgia Avenue, Suite 331 Washington, DC 20059 Phone: 202-238-5910 | Fax: 202-986-1506 info@asalh.net The Washington Informer
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BLACK HISTORY MONTH Macy’s Celebrates
MACY’S, THE GORDON PARKS FOUNDATION AND THE AMERICAN BLACK FILM FESTIVAL
CELEBRATE THE 1OOTH BIRTHDAY OF AMERICAN ICON, GORDON PARKS. MACY’S METRO CENTER, LOWER LEVEL FURNITURE GALLERY FEBRUARY 21ST, 5:3OPM Celebrate the life of Gordon Parks by viewing iconic images in our photographic art installation featuring some of his most beloved works, such as American Gothic, Washington D.C. 1942 during the month of February! Join us in “In Conversation” with actors Malik Yoba and Lamman Rucker for a spirited discussion on Gordon Parks’ influence on film and the future of African-American cinema. Following the discussion, enjoy light refreshments. Plus, with any $5O or more purchase made during the event, receive a commemorative Gordon Parks journal.* RSVP for this event at macysmetrocenterbhm. eventbrite.com Plus, from now through February 28th, visit macys.com/celebrate to enter for a chance to win a trip for two to The American Black Film Festival in Miami, courtesy of American Airlines, a $1OOO Macy’s shopping spree and Gordon Parks: Collected Works, a five-volume set of his photography.** The Gordon Parks Foundation permanently preserves the work of Gordon Parks, makes it available to the public and supports artistic and educational activities. The Foundation is a division of the Meserve-Kunhardt Foundation. For more information visit gordonparksfoundation.org Diversity. It’s not what you think. At Macy’s, it’s part of everything we do. Shown left: Kirk Buddy, Macy’s Advertising Photo of Gordon Parks courtesy of Adger Cowans.
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Events subject to change or cancellation. *While supplies last. **No purchase necessary. Open to legal residents of the United States, the District of Columbia and Puerto Rico who are at least 18 years and older. Employees of Macy’s, American Airlines and their immediate family members are not eligible. Sweepstakes void in Alaska, Hawaii, Guam and where prohibited by law. For complete sweepstakes details and official rules visit macys.com/celebrate. ARV $4585.00 1 3446576_N3010189A.indd Feb. 14, 2013 - Feb. 20, 2013
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Editorial
opinions/editorials
Preserving the Home of Black History Joy Kinard learned about Dr. Carter G. Woodson as a child growing up in Washington, D.C., also the adopted home of Woodson, the Father of Negro History Week. Kinard said that every year her father, the late Dr. John R. Kinard, the first director of the Smithsonian’s Anacostia Community Museum, made her and her two sisters read Woodson’s treatise: “The Mis-Education of the Negro.” Later, while studying for her Ph.D. in history at Howard University, Kinard struggled through the difficulties she faced with coursework and life, in general, but she gained strength by sleeping with two books under her pillow: “the Bible,” she said, “because it’s my foundation and it says what you can do through Christ; and ‘The Mis-Education of the Negro,’ to tell me what we can do to be successful, to remind me that I am good enough and it gave me something to believe in, in order to get through.” Today, Dr. Joy Kinard, 37, a native Washingtonian and D.C. Public School graduate, is the central district manager of the National Park Service-East (NPSE). She oversees management of several National Capitol Park sites, including the Mary McLeod Bethune Council House, a National Historic Site, the Capitol Hill Parks, Buzzard Point Marina, James Creek Marina, Langston Golf Course and the Carter G. Woodson Home, a National Historic Site on Ninth Street in the Shaw neighborhood located in Northwest. Not only is it Kinard’s responsibility to oversee the restoration of the Carter G. Woodson home, but it’s her passion, as well. She wants every District resident to appreciate the jewel Woodson’s home represents and the sacrifices he made to ensure that the countless contributions African Americans made in the U.S. are remembered and celebrated. Kinard’s passion is turning into a crusade as she attempts to convey the need to save Woodson’s crumbling home and two others beside it. Already designated as a National Historic Landmark, the building is now in need of more than $6.5 million for restoration. Metal beams have been placed around the building to prevent it from collapsing. But timing couldn’t be worse for the Woodson Home restoration project that has been languishing for nearly two decades. Today, in the District, fundraising competitors include the $250 million public capital campaign for the Smithsonian National Museum of African American History and Culture, which broke ground last year and is scheduled to be completed and open to the public by 2015. And, fundraising continues for the newly erected $120 million Martin Luther King, Jr. Memorial on the National Mall, for the maintenance of the historic landmark. On December 19, 2012, which marked the 137th birthday of Woodson, Congresswoman Eleanor Holmes Norton read a letter that she wrote to President Obama to guests attending a celebration at Shiloh Baptist Church. The event was hosted by the Omega Psi Phi Fraternity and the Association for the Study of African American Life and History (ASALH). “It is nothing short of shocking, tremendously disappointing, and certainly unacceptable that a dozen years after this project was approved by Congress, [the National Park Service] (NPS), has not completed the project and cannot so much as offer a strategic plan, estimated timeline, or cost estimate for its completion. Considering that the Carter G. Woodson home site is of such a small scale that, when completed, it will occupy only three D.C. townhouses, it is incomprehensible that it continues to linger, with no sign of movement or NPS interest in its completion,” Norton wrote in her letter to the president. Norton said she is “calling on him [President Obama] to hold the appropriate officials accountable for developing a strategy and timeline to complete the Carter G. Woodson National Historic Site in the District of Columbia, and that he give the project the priority it deserves in his FY 2014 National Park Service budget.” If it were not for Woodson, who dedicated his entire life to the cause of preserving Negro History, the one month recognized by the entire nation might never have occurred. It all began in Woodson’s home at 1538 Ninth Street, N.W., where he lived from 1915 until his death in 1950, and where ASALH was headquartered until 1970. It is the building where Woodson managed ASALH’s day-to-day operations, published periodicals including the Negro History Bulletin and the Journal of Negro History, operated a book publishing company (Associated Publishers), trained researchers and educators, and pursued his own research and writing about African-American history. We urge President Obama to get this done, not just for Black Americans but for all Americans. It’s the debt you owe, and we owe, to this great man.
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People who are Making a Difference!
The Washington Informer published an absolutely great edition on Feb. 7, 2013. As a young man who was one of the first students to integrate schools in North Carolina in 1965, who broke color barriers in the Pentagon and military and led demonstrations for black rights; and demonstrated for equal rights as a boy growing up in Jim Crow, I like reading about our young men and women who are making things happen. I have had the opportunity to observe the works of Mr. Marcus Johnson, to work extensively with Ms. [Angela] Alsobrooks, and to create offices in Prince George’s County that address youth and gang issues. Therefore, I am extremely pleased with this edition and applaud the efforts of all those who stand up for that which is right. Think about it, gun violence is devastating our community and many lives. We must see the destruction taking place throughout our communities and be willing to address such issues. As a young
man, I lost both my older heroes and mentors through gun violence. We must “Stop the Madness” and return to the values of the 60s when we all used the words “brother and sister” when dealing with other people in a respectful. In closing, thank you Washington Informer for keeping us informed of the most pressing issues of the day and keep fostering your message of awareness. Respectfully, James A. Dula Executive Director Forest Heights/Oxon Hill Community Development Corporation Prince George’s County Maryland
Valid Concerns about a Neighborhood Renaissance
Your article by Michelle Phipps-Evans, “The Forces Behind Anacostia’s Resurgence,” February 7, 2013 was very interesting reading. As a lifelong resident of the District of Columbia,
I have watched the transformation of areas such as Columbia Road and U Street in Northwest, and H Street in Northeast. I am now wondering if this resurgence in Anacostia will make African Americans feel like outsiders, like the way we are made to feel when visiting the above-mentioned areas. The bars, restaurants, nightclubs and art galleries cater to the white middle-class residents of this city. If this is the way areas are developed, African Americans will once again be outsiders in their own neighborhoods. The District government continues to look the other way when confronted with the drunkenness and downright appalling behavior of young whites leaving bars in these areas for the sake of making a few more tax dollars. If young blacks acted the same way on the street God only knows what might happen to them. Is this the resurgence of Anacostia that the city wants? I hope not! Wilson J. Mahoney Washington, D.C.
Readers' Mailbox
The Washington Informer welcomes letters to the editor about articles we publish or issues affecting the community. Write to: lsaxton@washingtoninformer.com or send to: 3117 Martin Luther King Jr Ave., SE, Washington, D.C. 20032. Please note that we are unable to publish letters that do not include a full name, address and phone number. We look forward to hearing from you. The Washington Informer
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opinions/editorials
Guest Columnist
By Julianne Malveaux
Whole Foods and Whole Fools There is a Whole Foods store about three blocks from my home, and around the corner from my gym. I am enamored by the displays of produce, the red peppers contrasting the yellow ones, the kale, chard, and collard glistening from their morning sprinkle. I love the way the fish gleams back at you, char and salmon, swordfish and tilapia. When I walk over to the prepared food, I grin at the
ways the veggies are layered with cheese, crumbs, and so much more. They have sandwiches that I identify with, ingredients that I salivate about. And now I must declare that I would rather drink muddy water or sleep in a hollow log that to indulge in whole foods. I am utterly appalled that Whole Foods CEO John Mackey described Obamacare as “fascism.” Fascism is an incendiary word that speaks totalitarianism, or dictatorship, and it descries it in a pejorative way. Whatev-
er dissent there may be about Obamacare, the fact is, enough members of Congress voted for it to make it a law. John Mackey, what were you thinking when you called Obamacare (a term I proudly embrace) totalitarian and fascist? Is President Obama so mesmerizing that he forced opposing members of Congress to vote for his plan? I had mixed feelings when the store also known as Whole Paycheck swooped into my neighborhood. People earn less hourly than the price of a pound
Guest Columnist
of cheese. Most folks, though, were happy to have jobs. Happy, that is, until they complained about the terms and conditions of their work. I really didn’t pay much attention, but there was a niggling sense that something was wrong. Some of the workers grumbled outside the store. If you asked if they could help you, they were emphatically negative. I can understand folks preferring to keep their jobs than to put it out there for justice. But from the swing of the head, the
cut of the eye, it was clear that all has not been good at Whole Paycheck. Unease translated into disease for me. How dare John Mackey decide to flip his lip without a script to describe national health care as “fascism?” He seems to be trying to start a fight, to diminish a president, to ignore that vote of Congress, to put President Obama in a context that he does not deserve to be in. Fascism? One dictionary describes
See MALVEAUX on Page 53
By Lee A. Daniels
Black History Month’s Powerful Question I have a rule about this month. If it’s February, I know that somebody somewhere has given an interview or written an article declaring America no longer needs Black History Month. And, sure enough, the conservative National Review Online of February 4 has given us the article of one Charles W. Cooke. Its title is succinct – “Against Black History Month: This month is Black History Month.
Let’s hope it’s the last.” That snarky comment is revealing, isn’t it? Even if you’re opposed to Black History Month, no one would credibly think there’s any chance that this month’s, or next year’s, or the year after that’s, or … you get the picture … would be the last Black History Month American society commemorates? It’s not a serious comment, of course, and it indicates we’re not going to get a logical argument from Cooke.
But then, that’s not entirely Cooke’s fault. That’s because there is no logical argument against commemorating Black History Month. Indeed, now it’s more important than ever that we plumb the facts and complexities of African-American history. This is not a matter of “segregating” American history into racial and ethnic enclaves. It is a matter of acquiring a fuller understanding of American history by not pretending that
Guest Columnist
considering American history primarily through that of White Americans is the only approach that counts. Indeed, it’s clear that Carter G. Woodson, the great scholar who established Negro History Week in 1926, had two goals in mind. One was to enable African Americans to see that Blacks had a rich history before their capture and transport to the Americas; and that pursuing the truth of the Black experience in America was the only way to construct an America worthy of
its ideals. Cooke’s article follows the usual scheme of the attack on Black History Month. He asserts that the undertaking was necessary before the 1960s, when de jure and de facto segregation ruled the land. Now, however, it’s outlived its usefulness and in fact is harming the ability of all Americans to gain a shared understanding of American history. Black History Month should
See Daniels on Page 53
By Bill Fletcher, Jr.
Ignoring 40 Percent of the South Carolina Electorate
On a recent visit to South Carolina, I was reminded that last November President Obama received 40 percent of the state’s vote. There are a number of things that make this fact interesting but one really struck me: No significant funds were spent in South Carolina by anyone to turn out the vote in favor of Obama. The other interesting point is that that 40 percent is repeatedly ignored after Election
Day. The U.S. electoral system is blatantly undemocratic. Think about it for a moment. When it comes to electing the president of the United States it is not one person-one vote. Instead, there is this bizarre institution called the Electoral College. As a result no matter how many votes are cast in Texas or California, for instance, those states receive a set number of electoral votes to cast. These are added up and whoever comes out on top in a particular state gets that state’s
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entire Electoral College allotment. Republicans, by the way, are trying to change that so that states can parcel out their Electoral College votes, not proportionately but according to the manner in which the Republicans have gerrymandered states that they dominate. What the Electoral College system means, however, is that there are certain states that are considered solidly Democratic or solidly Republican because a majority consistently (or relatively consistently) votes in the diThe Washington Informer
rection of one or the other party. South Carolina, in this case, is considered solidly Republican. Because of our voting system that means that those voters who consistently reject the Republican candidates are treated as if they never existed. Forty percent is an interesting figure. Forty percent of the vote with no outside assistance is an even more interesting figure. That means that conceivably South Carolina, and several other states that are considered solidly Republican, may actually
end up in play in upcoming elections but only if a new strategy is implemented. The key elements of such a strategy were summarized in the 1988 presidential campaign of Jesse Jackson when he suggested that voters in the South needed to have a voting card in one hand and in the other hand they needed a union card. Moving states into play will necessitate greater resources at election time, for sure, but the longer term commitment must
See fletcher on Page 53 www.washingtoninformer.com
opinions/editorials
Child Watch©
By Marian Wright Edelman
The Courage and Vision of Medgar Evers liverance, and that the visions of those that came before us and dreamed of this day, that we recognize that their visions still inspire us.” – Myrlie Evers-Williams, 2013 Presidential Inaugural Invocation When Myrlie Evers-Williams gave the invocation at President Obama’s January inauguration, she was in part recognizing the vision and courage of her late great husband, Mississippi civil rights leader Medgar Evers, assassinated by a gun 50 years ago. Medgar was a huge inspi-
“One hundred fifty years after the Emancipation Proclamation and 50 years after the March on Washington, we celebrate the spirit of our ancestors, which has allowed us to move from a nation of unborn hopes and a history of disenfranchised votes to today’s expression of a more perfect union . . . Where our paths seem blanketed by throngs of oppression and riddled by pangs of despair, we ask for your guidance toward the light of de-
ration for me. As a 22 year old, first year law student at Yale, I traveled to Mississippi during my first spring break in 1961 to reconnect with my friends from SNCC—the Student Nonviolent Coordinating Committee. After the sit-in movement and SNCC’s founding at Shaw University in Raleigh, N.C, where Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. and Ella Baker pulled those of us who had sat down at lunch counters together from across the South, I decided on the spur of the moment to apply to law school
Guest Columnist
after volunteering for the Atlanta National Association for the Advancement of Colored People (NAACP) and seeing how many poor Black people could not get or afford legal counsel. Few, if any, White lawyers took civil rights cases at that time. I had been thinking about going to graduate school to study 19th Century Russian Literature and entering the Foreign Service but was jolted by such great need and injustice all around me at home. So remembering my daddy’s reminder that God ran a full
employment economy and if you followed the need, you’d never lack for a worthwhile purpose in life, I applied to law school— with no understanding of what it entailed. Many of my SNCC friends had gone into the poorest and most dangerous states of the South to organize poor Black citizens to vote and demand a better life. I needed to reconnect with my courageous friends that spring to be reminded of why I was in law school studying cor-
See Edelman on Page 54
By George E. Curry
Killing Black Teens – Literally 29, Hadiya was shot and killed in a park after she and friends sought shelter under a canopy when it began raining. She was killed about a mile from Obama’s Chicago home. Hadiya’s father, Nathaniel Pendleton, summed up his loss this way: “They took the light of my life…She was destined for great things and you stripped that from her.” First Lady Michelle Obama, Secretary of Education Arne Duncan and presidential adviser Valerie Jarrett attended Hadiya’s funeral on Saturday. Her moth-
The death of Hadiya Pendleton, a 15-year-old honor student at King College Prep High School on Chicago’s South Side is finally receiving the national attention that it deserves. An honor student and majorette in her school’s marching band, Hadiya had recently participated in President Obama’s inaugural parade in the nation’s capital. After leaving school on Jan.
er, Cleopatra Cowley-Pendleton, was a guest of the Obamas at Tuesday’s State of the Union address. The president is scheduled to visit Chicago on Friday where he will deliver a major address on gun violence that is certain to contain a mention of Hadiya. It’s fitting that Obama return to his adopted home town to make his case against deadly violence. According to statistics analyzed by the Chicago Reporter, more young people are killed in Chicago than any other city in the nation. More than 530 peo-
ASKIA-AT-LARGE
ple under 21 years old have been killed since 2008 – most of them in Black and Brown neighborhoods – while hundreds of others have been injured. According to the newspaper, nearly 80 percent of youth homicides occur in 22 Black or Latino neighborhoods on the city’s South, Southwest and West sides, even though those communities represent only one-third of Chicago’s population.” Young people are not only the victims of gun violence – they are usually the ones who
pull the trigger. “From 2008 through 2012, nearly half of Chicago’s 2,389 homicide victims were killed before their 25th birthday. In 2011, the most recent year for which the data were available, more than 56 percent of individuals who committed murder were also under 25. One-third of Chicago residents are under 25, according to 2011 Census estimates,” the Chicago Reporter states. “And despite various police strategies and communi-
See curry on Page 54
By Askia Muhammad
The Black-Indian Question Back in 2009 when the Supreme Court declined to take up the case concerning the racist name and logo for the Washington National Football League (NFL) team – owned officially by a corporate entity called “Pro Football Inc.” – this writer opined that the team was and remains “snakebit.” The team that was the last to hire a Black player, the team www.washingtoninformer.com
with the most offensive name in all of athletics, all sports, all levels – professional, collegiate, high school, even children’s neighborhood teams – that team continues to suffer bad karma, it’s as though the team has been snakebit. Like so many fans of the Doug Williams-Joe Gibbs-John Riggins-Joe Theismann-Darrell Green era, I was enamored with the champions who wore the burgundy and gold. During the 1992 season when they fielded a “Dream Team” – winning all but
one game including the Super Bowl – I managed to attend each and every home game at RFK Stadium. To feel the bleachers in that stadium actually rock and bounce with the motion of the enthusiasm for the team is an unforgettable experience. But something else happened that year. It was the 500th anniversary of Christopher Columbus coming to the New World, and a group of Native Americans took it upon themselves to picket every single home game. In addition, a group led by at-
torney Suzan Shown Harjo, a member of the Cheyenne and Hodulgee Muscogee Nation, challenged the team’s trademarks which had been issued in 1967. A new case has been filed before the patent board by a group of younger plaintiffs after the original case was overturned and is scheduled to be heard in March of this year. Meanwhile, a new National Museum of the American Indian has risen on the National Mall, and the museum recently held an all-day symposium on “racist stereo-
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types and cultural appropriation in American sports.” Former U.S. Sen. Ben “Nighthorse” Campbell, a Democrat turned Republican from Colorado attended and he declared that the four most offensive words ever spoken to him were: “savage,” “squaw,” “buck,” and of course “redskin.” Never mind that some football fans insist they are “honoring” the bravery of Native Americans by imitating tribal
See Muhammad on Page 54
Feb. 14, 2013 - Feb. 20, 2013
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LIFESTYLE
Marsalis
Branford
Waxes Philosophical
Renaissance
Man
Jazz Man Performs at the Clarice Smith Center
By Stacy M. Brown WI Contributing Writer Exuding the class often associated with jazz, a member of an esteemed family waxes philosophical about music, Hollywood and growing up in a family of accomplished musicians. Grammy award winner Branford Marsalis intends to mesmerize the audience Friday evening when he and his quartet perform before jazz aficionados, longtime fans and newcomers to the genre. Marsalis said there’s a uniqueness about jazz musicians, largely because of the laid back style of the music and the perceived sophistication that it takes to create jazz. “There are a lot of musicians interested in jazz because of the intellectual component. But, a lot of guys also play jazz because that’s all they know how to play,” said Marsalis, who is touring the country with his quartet to bolster his latest CD, “Four MFs Playin’ Tunes,” which is currently available at Marsalis’ website, www.branfordmarsalis.com and
/Photo courtesy of Branford Marsalis
iTunes.com. The CD has already been named Apple iTunes Instrumental Jazz Album of the Year. While Marsalis once toyed with playing other styles of music, such as rhythm and blues, the famed jazz man said he
38 Feb. 14, 2013 - Feb. 20, 2013
couldn’t envision doing anything differently. “Music today is more processed than it used to be,” he said. “Appearances with today’s pop stars seem to be more important than the delivery in a lot of reThe Washington Informer
spects. While there are talented musicians today in pop, there is certainly an acute lack of variety.” Marsalis said he’s also saddened when he hears criticism of some black artists who cross over to other genres not typically asso-
ciated with black audiences. “Everything is codified today and it’s wrong,” he said. “Darius Rucker is playing country music and I heard some guy say that See Marsalis on Page 39
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INVITE YOU AND A GUEST TO AN ADVANCE SCREENING
/Photo courtesy of Branford Marsalis
Marsalis
continued from Page 38
Darius should just play his own music. That’s wrong. That is our music and Darius should keep playing, I love it. Look, Charlie Pride was country. We can’t define things by color because James Brown wasn’t one dimensional, neither was Smokey Robinson and look at Lola Falana, nobody back then called what she was doing not black. Nobody questioned any of their blackness.” Marsalis also took issue with Hollywood, whom he said also misses the boat when it comes to accurately portraying black artists. The fact that Mary J. Blige, an R&B singer, is cast as Betty Shabazz in a television movie and some rap stars are given prominent roles in dramas, is a result of the lack of diversity and, perhaps, vision, he said. Casting such talent serves only to take away roles from potential young actors, something Marsalis admits he’s been guilty of as well. “Hollywood has used bigger name rappers and musicians to fill spots that could have gone to someone else in that field,” he said. “That includes me.” Marsalis has appeared in such movies as “Mo’ Better Blues,”; “School Daze,” and “Throw Momma from the Train.” He has also contributed music to such films as “The Russia House,”; “Malcolm X,” and “Do the Right Thing.” Despite the acting roles, Marsalis’ commitment to his craft remains unshakeable, he said. He has won three Grammy awards, a Drama Desk Award for outstanding music in a Broadway play, and has been nominated for several Tony awards. www.washingtoninformer.com
Marsalis is a member of the first family of jazz. The New Orleans-based family includes Wynton, 51, Ellis III, 49, Delfeayo, 47, and Jason, 35. Two years ago, the National Endowment for the Arts conferred the prestigious Jazz Masters Fellowship on the family, celebrating what the organization said was jazz’s most storied living dynasty who have left an indelible mark, collectively and individually, on the history and future of jazz. Patriarch, Ellis Marsalis, played tenor saxophone and piano in high school and became a jazz educator. Ellis Marsalis taught at the New Orleans Center for Creative Arts and his students included Harry Connick, Jr., Donald Harrison, Terence Blanchard and Ellis’ own sons. “My father and Wynton got me into playing because I wanted to be a history teacher,” Branford Marsalis said. “They told me I could play with guys [who are good at playing jazz] and, if it didn’t work out, I could still go and be a teacher,” he said. Wynton Marsalis became the first in the family to achieve national acclaim after being featured in the New Orleans Philharmonic at age 14. Wynton Marsalis played in R&B and funk bands at an early age but studied jazz at the Berkshire Music Center in New Orleans and, later, he attended the Juilliard School of Dance, Drama, and Music in New York. Wynton Marsalis, a multiple Grammy winner himself, led a quintet that included Branford in 1982. “When I play with my family, it’s the same as playing with anyone else,” Branford Marsalis said. “We don’t think like we’re family
when we’re on stage and Wynton and I have this unique internal communication with each other, after all, we slept in the same bedroom for so many years,” he said, with a laugh. Branford Marsalis started out playing soprano, alto and tenor saxophone. He studied under his father at the New Orleans Center for Creative Arts, but went on to study at Southern University in Baton Rouge, La., and at Berklee College of Music in Boston. Last year, Marsalis received an honorary Doctor of Music in Arts Degree from the University of North Carolina and was honored with a Jefferson Award for Public Service for his work in the Musicians’ Village of New Orleans. The former conductor of the Tonight Show Band with Jay Leno, Marsalis performed the national anthem at the 2012 Democratic National Convention. He has recorded with Miles Davis, Dizzy Gillespie, Sting and has also worked with Herbie Hancock. He said Black History Month is always a time to reflect and a time for young people to understand what African Americans have accomplished. “Listen, when I was growing up my father kept things in perspective for us and every day was a lesson in black history,” Marsalis said. “Black History Month is needed because children still need to hear about black achievement. There are still too many who are not aware of black achievement and you never know what knowing these things might do for their self-esteem and self-awareness.” Marsalis’ performance Friday, Feb. 15, at the Clarice Smith Performing Arts Center in College Park is sold out, and it’s no surprise. wi The Washington Informer
For a chaNcE To wiN TickETS To a SPEcial aDvaNcE ScrEENiNG oF SNiTch iN waShiNGToN, Dc loG oN To www.GOFOBO.COm/RSVp aND ENTEr ThE FollowiNG coDE: INF8Xp0 No purchase necessary. Supplies limited. Two passes per person. Each pass admits one. Employees of all promotional partners are not eligible. Decisions Final. This film is rated PG-13. No one under the age of 13 admitted without a parent or legal guardian.
IN THEATERS FEBRUARY 22ND
Feb. 14, 2013 - Feb. 20, 2013
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LIFESTYLE
Griot “Michael Jackson: King of Pop 19582009” by Emily Herbert, read by Andre Blake c.2009, Bolinda Publishing, now available from Brilliance Audio $19.99 U.S. & Canada 6 CDs / 6:44 in length
By Terri Schlichenmeyer WI Contributing Writer
W
hen you look back over your life, there’s a musical score be-
hind it. You cut your teeth on “A-B-C” and “Rockin’ Robin.”
You hummed “I’ll Be There” in the ear of your first date. Later, you thrilled to “Thriller” and “Beat It” and you swore, with one white-gloved hand, that Billie Jean’s son was not yours. Then, almost four years ago, the song ended. So what don’t you know about The Greatest Entertainer of All Time? Find out in “Michael Jackson: King of Pop 19582009” by Emily Herbert, read by Andre Blake. Growing up in a large family in Gary, Ind., wasn’t easy for Michael Jackson. Though he
It was true that Michael Jackson loved to perform. He was also a perfectionist, and had set his eyes on becoming a movie star in addition to being a musical performer. His first foray, The Wiz, didn’t give him the film stardom he craved, but it did give him a chance to meet Quincy Jones, who became a lifelong friend and collaborator. Shortly after his role in The Wiz ended, Michael had surgery to correct an injury on his nose. That, says Herbert, made him realize that he could change his face. In the years between that attempt at movie-stardom and the release of his albums Off the Wall and Thriller, Michael Jackson cemented his reputation as The King of Pop and became a household name. His dances were copied, his signature onegloved look became fashion, and his albums broke records. But the King was unhappy. Over time, Jackson became tired of the hoopla. He loved the crowds, but hated the media and the rumors. In an attempt to remedy that, he made some strategic
loved to sing with his brothers, Michael’s father, Joe, could be cruel and loved to taunt Michael. Honing in on the boy’s deepest weakness, Joe mercilessly teased him about his nose and his skin tone. Joe also pushed his sons to perform, and the group soon caught record producers’ eyes. Even then, and though he wasn’t initially supposed to be the lead singer, it was obvious that young Michael was the break-out star of the family. His gift was apparent as soon as he stepped on the stage.
(but ill-fated) decisions, both privately and publicly, which only made the problem worse. He started to suffer from insomnia, and turned to drugs for relief … So you say you’re a major Michael Jackson fan? You’ve read everything about him and watched every interview? Then you’ve heard this audiobook. Indeed, there are very few surprises in “Michael Jackson: King of Pop 1958-2009.” Author Emily Herbert pulled together interviews, books, TV programs, and other information that’s already become public, and while there’s a scattering of teensy nuggets, it’s mostly same old, same old. Yawn. I think that if you’re a rabid, died-in-the-wool MJ fan, yeah, go ahead and add this audiobook to your vast collection of Jacksonania. For the average person, though, you already know what’s in “Michael Jackson; King of Pop 1958-2009,” so just moonwalk away. wi
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feb 14 - feb 20, 2013
ARIES You have more of a flair for communication this week than usual. Keep your words diplomatic but effective if your opinion is called for. A relative seeking advice will be glad they asked you. Soul Affirmation: I make the first step and the universe will come to my aid. Lucky Numbers: 9, 13, 29
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TAURUS Don’t sweat the small stuff this week. You have a keen eye for the big picture, and you’ll be most productive if you ignore the petty this week. Your home is very happy tonight! Count your blessings! Soul Affirmation: Cheerfully handling what comes at me is the test of who I am. Lucky Numbers: 24, 31, 46
CANCER Things are busy this right now, and you love it! You feel very much as if you are at the center of life. Children will be a topic of conversation. Make plans to enjoy a special week with your honey. Soul Affirmation: I appear to others what I know myself to be. Lucky Numbers: 6, 13, 21 LEO You can fly through the week if you keep your level of cooperation high. By this week’s end, you’ll have many plans, romantic and otherwise for the time period. Be patient at the workplace and things will go fine. Soul Affirmation: I take it TRIM easy on myself this week. Lucky Numbers: 5, 6, 43
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GEMINI Your energy level remains high; be careful not to overdo it but enjoy the wonderful feeling of your physical self as much as possible. A phone call from a friend who lives far away will brighten your week and inspire you with travel plans. Soul Affirmation: Slow and easy is the best way for me to travel this week. Lucky Numbers: 18, 25, 55
1979
50
25
10
VIRGO You may feel as if you’ll never get everything done that’s asked of you, but stay steady and on course, take things one step at time, and you’ll be amazed at what you accomplish. Celebrate with a special friend. Soul Affirmation: This week is a gift that I deserve. Lucky Numbers: 10, 20, 38
10
5
100 75
LIBRA It’s a great week for catching up on chores and leftover tasks from last week. You’ll also have the opportunity to spend some time thinking about the direction you want your life to flow toward. Soul Affirmation: I face each day with a smile and the day smiles back at me. Lucky Numbers: 1, 6, 8
100 75
50
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SCORPIO Communication vibes are highlighted, and you are in your element. Many ideas will be presented, and everyone will be very receptive and agreeable to what you say. Romantic interests are easily pursued this week. Smile on! Soul Affirmation: The slowness of my pace gives me time to refresh my energy. Lucky Numbers: 17, 49, 51
PISCES Mental fog lifts and you are sharp as a tack once again. You’ll be making decisions about partnerships and joint finances. A very happy week is in store. Soul Affirmation: My smile is a radiant light to those I encounter. Lucky Numbers: 19, 23, 41
10 25 50 100 75 5 10
Keep the music playing at
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Students who play music do better in school and have a chance at a brighter future. Help them get the instruments, instruction and opportunities they need.
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AQUARIUS If you are finding it hard to concentrate on a project at work, begin imagining it successfully completed. Work steady and stay calm this week. This week is a good time for personal inventory. Soul Affirmation: I will take time to enjoy the simple things in life. Lucky Numbers: 11, 33, 44
HELP KIDS GET IN TUNE WITH THEIR POTENTIAL
100 75
CAPRICORN Financial matters are highlighted during working hours. Everything to do with your money, or money under your care, goes smoothly. Another party invitation arrives. . . say YES!Soul Affirmation: I admit what I really want out of life this week. Lucky Numbers: 14, 22, 36
5
SAGITTARIUS Love and romance vibes are all around you this week! They will soothe your spirit and uncoil your tensions resulting from having too much work to do. Delegate some of the minor tasks so that you can do your best at the big stuff. Have a loving, lovely week. Soul Affirmation: New intuitions create new plans and a new cast of characters. Lucky Numbers: 2, 5, 16
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LIFESTYLE
A Swan Song for Famed Alvin Ailey Dancer Renee Robinson Performed for the Last Time at the Kennedy Center By Stacy M. Brown WI Contributing Writer The final curtain has fallen on the career of one of dance’s most distinguished performers. After 31 years with the famed Alvin Ailey American Dance Theater Company, Washington, D.C., native, Renee Robinson is trading in her satin ballerina slippers for a laptop and, perhaps, a trip around the globe. “Right now, the focus is on what I’ve always been doing for the past 30 years, which is to dance and give a great show,” Robinson said. “I won’t have the other emotions that come with this being the last time until after it’s all over. But, I can tell you that the focus will be to rock the house.” A principal dancer, Robin-
son again grabbed the spotlight during performances last week at the John F. Kennedy Center for the Performing Arts in Northwest, a stone’s throw from her Anacostia home where she said she’s returning to write children’s books. The tour, which heads to Atlanta for performances through Sunday, Feb. 17, ends in New York on June 16. “I’m coming home and I’m writing a series of children’s books because I want to make it simple for children to understand how they can take care of their instrument, which is their body,” she said. “Young people are curious and they ask about dancing. I want to make my books fun, light and I want them to make sense.”A primary message she wants to convey is the impor-
tance of eating properly, Robinson said. “Make food your medicine, not your poison,” she said. “Also, the company you keep and the things you expose yourself to can be your medicine or your poison, so my advice is to be around people who are full of life and who
want to talk about things so that your energy is not drained talking about things that are negative.” With great anticipation, Robinson looked forward to her farewell performance in D.C., because of the support her hometown has always shown her, she said.
The performances provided Robinson a chance to reflect on all that she’s accomplished and it afforded her another opportunity to pay homage to Ailey, she said. “The company’s goal is to
See ROBINSON on Page 43
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LIFESTYLE ROBINSON continued from Page 42 bring the best of Alvin Ailey’s legacy to the stage. With dance, there is a certain amount of focused energy that has to be there and when you’re on the stage, that focus comes through and that is what Ailey taught,” Robinson said. Robinson, a graduate of the all-girls Notre Dame Academy in Northwest, is the last dancer in the company to have been selected by Ailey himself. Ailey died in 1989. Robinson is also the only dancer to have performed under each of the company’s three artistic directors, Ailey, Judith Jamison and Robert Battle. “Just as I’m so lucky to have worked under our founder and the brilliant Judith Jamison, Battle
is just as committed to continuing Ailey’s legacy as anyone,” said Robinson, who began training at age 10 at the Jones-Haywood School in Northwest. “There wasn’t much to enjoy at that time, just work,” Robinson said. “It was a lot of hard work and lots of discipline, which is required in dance.” Robinson said while her parents and instructors were tough, most dancers realize that they have to be even harder on themselves. “If you don’t get everything right, you can’t do the job,” she said. “There were times when I wanted to quit during dance school, but when that would happen, I’d come out of class, see my mother and she’d tell me that I couldn’t quit just because something didn’t go right,” Robinson said. “I wasn’t allowed to give up when I had a hard time,” she said.
“I’m focused on my farewell shows and making sure that I give the best performance and to continue to carrying on Ailey’s legacy. After that, I’ll be here at home and I’ll be open to the universe and whatever that may bring.”
– Renee Robinson
Photo courtesy of Andrew Eccles
A graduate of New York University, Robinson has been the central dancer in Ailey’s “Revelations,” the company’s signature choreographic work based on Ailey’s memories of church and life in the Deep South. “I was very
A MASTER CLASS
excited when I was chosen for ‘Revelations,’” Robinson said. “I was nervous, yes, but I knew the role was important to Ailey.” Robinson, who declined to give her age, has performed for a number of presidents and first ladies, including Ronald Reagan, Bill Clinton, Hillary Rodham Clinton, Barack Obama and Michelle Obama. In recognition of her artistry, Dance Magazine recently presented Robinson with the prestigious 2012 Dance Magazine Award while highlighting her performances in the magazine’s “Best of 2012” list. “The recognition and performing in front of presidents,
it’s always special. That’s one of the things that makes coming home to D.C., and the Kennedy Center special,” Robinson said. In addition to writing children’s books, Robinson said her post-Ailey plans also include improving her French and Spanish. She said she plans to revisit places around the world where the company has toured. “I’m focused on my farewell shows and making sure that I give the best performance and to continue to carrying on Ailey’s legacy,” she said. “After that, I’ll be here at home and I’ll be open to the universe and whatever that may bring.” wi
CONVERSATIONS IN JAZZ WITH DC’S OWN BASSIST BEN WILLIAMS Presented by THEARC Theater and the DC Jazz Festival Friday, March 22, 2013 at 10:30 • FREE • 60 Minutes Bassist Benjamin Williams, a DC-native, also performs on electric bass and piano. His musical influences are rooted in various genres of music including jazz, hip-hop, R&B, gospel, and classical. A graduate of the Michigan State University School of Music where he majored in Music Education with an emphasis in Jazz, Ben has won several competitions including the prestigious Thelonious Monk Institute of Jazz Competition (2010). He is also a two-time winner of the Fish Middleton Jazz Scholarship Competition at the East Coast Jazz Festival; a two-time winner of the DC Public School Piano Competition; and a 2002 recipient of the Duke Ellington Society Annual Scholarship Award. Ben also took first place in the 2005 International Society of Bassists (ISB) competition in the category of jazz. Ben has performed nationally and internationally with artists such as Wynton Marsalis, Terence Blanchard, Roy Hargrove, Mulgrew Miller, Cyrus Chestnut, Stefon Harris, Winard Harper, Buster Williams, Me’Shell N’degeocello, Gene Lake, Wycliffe Gordon, and Delfeayo Marsalis, among others. He has also opened for artists such as John Legend, Kirk Franklin, and Eric Roberson. Q & A will follow by students. Moderated by Sunny Sumter, executive director, DC Jazz Festival.
Directions and Metro [M: Southern Avenue; Bus: 32, 34, 36, 92, 94, W2, W3] Recommended Age: Middle and High School.
EVENING CO N CE R T thearcdc.org
Ben Williams and the Sound Effect Jazz Band performing at THEARC Theater Friday, March 22, 2013 at 7:30 PM. Click here for details. Special $10.00 tickets available to master class participants, teachers, and their families. Program Code: DCJAZZFEST
Stay connected to the DC Jazz Festival at www.dcjazzfest.org This tour engagement of Ben Williams is funded through Mid Atlantic Arts Foundation’s Jazz Touring Network program with support from the National Endowment for the Arts. The 2013 Roberta Flack Music Education Program is made possible through the generous support of the UnitedHealth Group, the NEA Foundation, the Mid-Atlantic Arts Foundation, CrossCurrents Foundation, and the Morris and Gwendolyn Cafritz Foundation; and, in part, with a grant from the National Endowment for the Arts and the DC Commission on the Arts and Humanities, supported in part by the National Endowment for the Arts. The Roberta Flack Music Education Program is a project of Festivals, DC, Ltd d/b/a DC Jazz Festival, a 501(3)3 non-profit service organization. ©2013 Festivals DC Ltd. All rights reserved.
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Wizards guard John Wall takes on Brooklyn guard Deron Williams and former Wizards forward Andray Blatche in the second half of NBA action on Friday, Feb. 8 at the Verizon Center in Northwest. The Wizards defeated the Brooklyn Nets 89-74. /Photo by John E. De Freitas The NBA honored Chinese New Year by kicking off festivities during the Wizards’ game against the Brooklyn Nets on Friday, Feb. 8. The Wizards hosted opening festivities, which drew 96 million viewers, as it was the first NBA franchise to travel to China in 1979. The halftime show was presented by local Chinese artists. /Photo by John E De Freitas
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Wizards forward Kevin Seraphin tries to prevent New York forward Amar’e Stoudemire from scoring during the first half of NBA action on Wednesday, Feb. 6 at the Verizon Center in Northwest. The Wizards defeated the New York Knicks 106-96. The loss ended a fivegame win streak for the Knicks. /Photo by John E. De Freitas
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Howard University Basketball Highlights
sports
Led by senior guard Kara Smith, the Howard University Lady Bison bench erupts in celebration at the end of the game. Howard defeated Maryland Eastern Shore 59-30. /Photo by John E. De Freitas
Association for the Study of African American Life and History Howard Lady Bison guard Imani Bailey shields the basketball from Maryland Eastern Shore Lady Hawks guard Sha-Kiyla Finney during women’s basketball action on Saturday, Feb. 9 at the Burr Gymnasium in Northwest. Howard defeated Maryland Eastern Shore 59-30. / Photo by John E. De Freitas
87th Annual Black History Luncheon and Featured Authors’ Event 2013 National Black History Theme:
At the Crossroads of Freedom and Equality: The Emancipation Proclamation and the March on Washington
Saturday, February 23, 2013
Washington Marriott Wardman Park Hotel 2660 Woodley Road, N.W. Washington, DC 20008 (202) 328-2000 Featured Authors’ Event 10:00 a.m. Doors for the Luncheon open at 12:15 pm Program length: 12:30 – 3:30 pm
Dr. Mary Frances Berry Former Chair U.S. Civil Rights Commission Guest Speaker
Aaron Gilchrist Emcee NBC News Anchor
Dr. Daryl Michael Scott President – ASALH
DEADLINE TO PURCHASE TICKETS: February 18, 2013 General Individual $ 75 _________
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Corporate Ticket $200begins _________ Featured Authors’ Event at 10:00 a.m. Doors for the Luncheon open at 12:15 p.m. I cannot attend but I p.m. am pleased to enclose a tax-deductible donation to ASALH $________ Program length: 12:30 pm – 3:30
For Sponsorship information, please contact ASALH at 202-238-5910 or by email at aedwards@asalh.net
Purchase tickets, donate and view luncheon updates online at www.asalh.org! NO TICKETS WILL BE MAILED! GUEST WILL PICK UP TABLE ASSIGNMENTS AT THE REGISTRATION DESK.
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Howard University Bison guard Brandon Ford jumps over Maryland Eastern Shore Hawks guards Olatunji Kosile and Louis Bell during men’s college basketball action on Saturday, Feb. 9 at the Burr Gymnasium in Northwest. Howard defeated Maryland Eastern Shore 63-44. /Photo by John E. De Freitas
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RETURN THIS FORM WITH PAYMENT TO: ASALH 2225 Georgia Ave. NW, Suite 331 Washington DC 20059 Phone: (202) 238-5910 Fax: (202) 986-1506 Email: luncheon@asalh.net website: www.asalh.org
The Washington Informer
Feb. 14, 2013 - Feb. 20, 2013
45
LIFESTYLE
Nissan has transformed the Sentra into a larger, more mature car. /Photo courtesy of Nissan North America, Inc.
Roomier Sentra Moves Up in Style By Njuguna Kabugi WI Contributing Writer The compact car segment is overflowing with stylish performers from the U.S. and abroad. Thanks to record-high gas prices and a lethargic economy, nationwide automotive downsizing is well underway. Within the last two years, more than one in four new-car sales have been a compact. They are built using global expertise and must satisfy a worldwide customer base. In short, they have to be more than good; they must be excellent. The sheer talent of small cars on sale today presents better performance, safety, comfort and technology than was available just a few years ago. Class competition is brutal and upstarts seeking to jostle with stalwarts such as the Hyundai Elantra, Honda Civic, Toyota Corolla, Mazda 3, Chevy Cruze and Ford Focus better present seriously compelling offerings to sway the suddenly empowered car buyers. Nissan, maker of this week’s test car, once intimidated Sentra rivals with fresh designs and spirited handling. In the last few years, however, the Japanese automaker has been widely panned for slacking off with models that offered sterile styling and less than riveting drive character. The completely redesigned 2013 Sentra presents a complete
46 Feb. 14, 2013 - Feb. 20, 2013
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turnaround that has catapulted the Sentra into a niche just below a mid-size sedan. By getting larger car accoutrements into a smaller package, the new Sentra looks like Nissan’s larger Altima sedan on a diet. It exudes a laidback profile and upscale, Infiniti-influenced persona in a way the outgoing car never could. The Sentra will easily fit the bill for buyers looking for a comfortable and affordable commuter that’s confident enough for everyday-driving demands. They will appreciate the soft, cushy seats as well as rear-seat legroom now among the best in class due to the new car’s additional 0.6 inch of wheelbase and 2.3-inch increase in overall length. For buyers looking for zippy small-car performance, this car will be a disappointment. The Sentra does not by any stretch provide the thrill one gets scooting around town in the Ford Focus or Mazda3. Throttle jocks will also not get the kind of refined, reassurance drivers get from the Chevy Cruze or VW Jetta powertrains. Nissan dropped the 2013 Sentra down from a 2.0-liter engine to a 1.8-liter. While fuel efficiency saw a significant boost – from 30 mpg in the city and 39 on the highway – the switch handcuffs performance. The four-cylinder engine and Xtronic continuously variable automatic transmission (CVT) combo, feel out of kilter,
resulting in poor acceleration and some seriously loud revving. Whether in sport, eco or normal mode, the Sentra exhibits peculiar qualities that give CVTs a bad name: slipping clutch sensation and breathless acceleration, droning acoustics when you need the car to pick up, and a general lack of linearity. Subtract the challenged powertrain, and this is well-equipped car. The cabin has pleasing materials, and there is a decent amount of options for the money. This new Sentra also looks sharp even against the swooshy-styled Hyundai Elantra’s design which I suspect may be innovative now, but could look as dated as a flip phone in five years. Despite my misgivings, I suspect this Nissan will sell well. There are many buyers who will not mind how a CVT behaves if the car, on the other hand, is reasonably priced, looks good, gets good fuel economy and rides comfortably. At a starting price of $16,770, the base Sentra represents a savings of $440 over last year’s car. Loaded up with heated front seats, a sunroof, navigation, and a rearview camera, the up level SL still costs less than $24,000. The fancy LED-accented headlights and LED taillights are standard. wi www.washingtoninformer.com
The Religion Corner
religion
Fanning the Flames of the Diabetes Epidemic
T
his is a six-part series, published in 2003. Since its online debut, this article has appeared on thousands of health websites around the world. It’s posted in Africa, the United Kingdom, Sweden, Canada, Europe, Asia, and has been translated into various languages. I posted this story on the life and suffering of my mother in order to help others, so her life would not have been in vain. This week, the Lord told me to share this article with my readers. Those of you who have read this column faithfully will be able to witness the devastation faced by my family and me – my mother suffered for 12 years with diabetes – and all of the other complications that result from having the disease. Here is my story: It’s my pleasure to introduce to you, a new diabetes prevention education public relations campaign, established under the name of Fannie Estelle Hill Grant. I initiated the campaign after the loss of my mother who succumbed to Type 2 diabetes on December 25, 2000. I noticed a fire burning in the diabetes health arena, specifically, in the African-American community. Today, it continues to burn out of control, and ravage families and their loved ones. The public relations campaign was started in an effort, to “Fan the Flames”, and extinguish the disease for once and for all. Mother was 73 years old, a wife and mother of nine children, a homemaker, who loved her family very much. She believed in preparing wonderful home-cooked meals for the family, and she would
gladly prepare desserts any day of the week. Mama enjoyed cooking, cleaning and washing clothes, and although she raised nine children of her own, she always had room for other needy children. In our early years, during the 1960s, mother was the wife of our sharecropper father in North Carolina, but my parents moved the family to Washington, D.C., in 1965. For more than 30 years the Washington metropolitan area was home. The family learned of mother’s Type 2 diabetes after she suffered a major stroke in 1989. She lived only 12 years after the diagnosis. Lyndia and her Sisters, (The Grant Sisters) pledged to begin the education prevention campaign while they cared for their mother during her last year of life. Mother and father moved back to North Carolina, where she enjoyed her later years in a peaceful way. We [the children] purchased a new home for her, assumed the mortgage payments, and she was happy. Mother Grant enjoyed living on the 226-acre farm, near Kinston; she was one of the heirs to the farm left to her family by their father, and my grandfather, Floyd Hill. She enjoyed walking around the farm, following my father as he worked. And, she loved shopping at yard sales with her sisters. Mother suffered many additional strokes; during one of them, she lost the ability to speak coherently. Her kidneys failed, she had kidney dialysis for the last two years of her life, she had high blood pressure for many years, and both of her legs were amputated above her knees. The Problem: We wanted to
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with Lyndia Grant
know more about the disease that took our mother in such a brutal fashion. There was so much pain and suffering prior to her death. Mother Grant was a Christian – an Evangelist – who preached the gospel in churches throughout the Washington D.C. area, and everyone loved her and called her Ma. Our mother was very special. As her oldest daughter, I promised to carry out a public awareness campaign, to educate millions of people regarding the causes and prevention of Type 2 diabetes. In educating the general public, I feel a lot better now, because my mother’s life shall not be in vain.wi Read Part 2 next week of this sixpart series. Lyndia Grant is a radio show host on WYCB 1340 AM, listen Fridays at 6 p.m. Call her at 202-5183192, or email her at lyndiagrant@ gmail.com.
Listen to
3DVW 5DGLR 6KRZ *XHVW /LVW 5HY -HVVH -DFNVRQ 'U -XOLDQQH 0DOYHDX[ TV’s Della Reese; Dr. E. Faye Williams
:(,*+7 /266 &203(7,7,21 3UL]HV IRU :LQQHUV
Register Now! Call Today 202-518-3192 Tune In …WYCB-AM 1340
Radio-One with Lyndia Grant
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The Washington Informer
“Praise In The City”
The New Public Affairs Talk Show Hosted by Praise 104.1’s Sheila Stewart Saturday 5:30am-6:30am on Praise 104.1 For more info visit www.praise1041.com
Feb. 14, 2013 - Feb. 20, 2013
47
religion BAPTIST
african methodist episcopal
Historic St. Mary’s Episcopal Church Rev. James Manion Supply Priest Foggy Bottom • Founded in 1867 728 23rd Street, NW • Washington, DC 20037 Church office: 202-333-3985 • Fax : 202-338-4958 Worship Services Sundays: 10 a.m. Holy Eucharist with Music and Hymns Wednesdays: 12:10 p.m. - Holy Eucharist www.stmarysfoggybottom.org Email: stmarysoffice@stmarysfoggybottom.org All are welcome to St. Mary’s to Learn, Worship, and Grow.
Blessed Word of Life Church Dr. Dekontee L. & Dr. Ayele A. Johnson Pastors 4001 14th Street, NW Washington, DC 20011 (202) 265-6147 Office 1-800 576-1047 Voicemail/Fax Schedule of Services: Sunday School – 9:30 AM Sunday Morning Worship Service – 11:00 AM Communion Service – First Sunday Prayer Service/Bible Study – Tuesday, 6:30 PM www.blessedwordoflifechurch.org e-mail: church@blessedwordoflifechurch.org
Campbell AME Church Reverend Daryl K. Kearney, Pastor 2562 MLK Jr. Ave., S E Washington, DC 20020 Adm. Office 202-678-2263 Email:Campbell@mycame.org Sunday Worship Service 10: am Sunday Church School 8: 45 am Bible Study Wednesday 12:00 Noon Wednesday 7:00 pm Thursday 7: pm “Reaching Up To Reach Out” Mailing Address Campbell AME Church 2502 Stanton Road SE Washington, DC 20020
Mt. Zion Baptist Church Rev. John W. Davis, Pastor 5101 14th Street, N.W. Washington, DC 20011 202-726-2220/ 202-726-9089 Sunday Worship Service 8:00am and 11:00am Sunday School 9:15am Holy Communion 4th Sunday 10:00am Prayer and Bible Study Wednesday 7;00pm TV Ministry –Channel 6 Wednesday 10:00pm gsccm.administration@verizon.net
Pilgrim Baptist Church
700 I. Street, NE Washington, D.C. 20002 Pastor Louis B. Jones, II and Pilgrim invite you to join us during our July and August Summer schedule! Attire is Christian casual. Worship: Sundays@ 7:30 A.M. & 10:00 A.M. 3rd Sunday Holy Communion/Baptism/Consecration Prayer & Praise: Wednesdays @12:00 Noon @ 6:30 P.M. – One Hour of Power! (202) 547-8849 www.pilgrimbaptistdc.org
Covenant Baptist United Church of Christ Drs. Dennis W. and Christine Y. Wiley, Pastors 3845 South Capitol Street Washington, DC 20032 (202) 562-5576 (Office) (202) 562-4219 (Fax) SERVICES AND TIMES: SUNDAYS: 8:00 AM and 10:45 AM Worship Services BIBLE STUDY: Wonderful Wednesdays in Worship and the Word Bible Study Wednesdays 12:00 Noon; 6:30 PM (dinner @ 5:30 PM) SUNDAY SCHOOL: 9:45 AM – Hour of Power “An inclusive ministry where all are welcomed and affirmed.” www.covenantbaptistdc.org
Morning Star Baptist Church Pastor Gerald L Martin Senior Minister 3204 Brothers Place S.E. Washington, D.C. 20032 202-373-5566 or 202-373-5567
Church of Living Waters
Rev. Paul Carrette Senior Pastor Harold Andrew, Assistant Pastor 4915 Wheeler Road Oxon Hill, MD 20745 301-894-6464 Schedule of Service Sunday Service: 8:30 AM & 11:00 AM Bible Study: Wednesday 7:30 PM Communion Service: First Sunday www.livingwatersmd.org
St. Stephen Baptist Church Lanier C. Twyman, Sr. State Overseer 5757 Temple Hill Road, Temple Hills, MD 20748 Office 301-899-8885 – fax 301-899-2555 Sunday Early Morning Worship - 7:45 a.m. Church School - 9:30 a.m. Sunday Morning Worship – 10:45 a.m. Tuesday – Thursday - Kingdom Building Bible Institute – 7:30 p.m. Wednesday – Prayer/Praise/Bible Study – 7:30 p.m. Baptism & Communion Service- 4th Sunday – 10:30am Radio Broadcast WYCB -1340 AM-Sunday -6:00pm T.V. Broadcast - Channel 190 – Sunday -4:00pm/Tuesday 7:00am
“We are one in the Spirit” www.ssbc5757.org e-mail: ssbc5757@verizon.net
Allen Chapel A.M.E. Church Rev. Dr. Michael E. Bell, Sr., • Pastor 2498 Alabama Ave., SE • Washington D.C. 20020 Office: (202) 889-7296 Fax: (202) 889-2198 • www.acamec.org 2008: The Year of New Beginnings “Expect the Extraordinary”
Crusader Baptist Church
Isle of Patmos Baptist Church Reverend Dr. Calvin L. Matthews • Senior Pastor 1200 Isle of Patmos Plaza, Northeast Washington, DC 20018 Office: (202) 529-6767 Fax: (202) 526-1661
Rev. Dr. Alton W. Jordan, Pastor 800 I Street, NE Washington, DC 20002 202-548-0707 Fax No. 202-548-0703
Sunday Worship Services: 8:00a.m. and 11:00a.m. Sunday Church School - 9:15a.m. & Sunday Adult Forum Bible Study - 10:30a.m. 2nd & 4th Monday Women’s Bible Study - 6:30p.m. Tuesday Jr./Sr. Bible Study - 10:00a.m. Tuesday Topical Bible Study - 6:30p.m. Tuesday New Beginnings Bible Study - 6:30p.m. Wednesday Pastoral Bible Study - 6:30p.m. Wednesday Children’s Bible Study - 6:30p.m. Thursday Men’s Bible Study - 6:30p.m. Friday before 1st Sunday Praise & Worship Service - 6:30p.m. Saturday Adult Bible Study - 10:00a.m.
Sunday Morning Worship 11:00am Holy Communion – 1st Sunday Sunday School-9:45am Men’s Monday Bible Study – 7:00pm Wednesday Night Bible Study – 7:00pm Women’s Ministry Bible Study 3rd Friday -7:00pm Computer Classes- Announced Family and Marital Counseling by appointment E-mail: Crusadersbaptistchurch@verizon.net www.CrusadersBaptistChurch.org
“The Amazing, Awesome, Audacious Allen Chapel A.M.E. Church”
“God is Love”
Third Street Church of God Rev. Cheryl J. Sanders, Th.D. Senior Pastor 1204 Third Street, NW Washington, DC 20001 202.347.5889 office 202.638.1803 fax Sunday School: 9:30 a.m. Sunday Worship: 11:00 a.m. Prayer Meeting and Bible Study: Wed. 7:30 p.m. “Ambassadors for Christ to the Nation’s Capital” www.thirdstreet.org
Sunday Worship Services: 7:30 a.m. and 10:30 a.m. Holy Communion: 2nd Sunday at 7:30 a.m. and 10:30 a.m. Sunday Church School: 9:20 a.m. Seniors Bible Study: Tuesdays at 10:30 a.m. Noon Day Prayer Service: Tuesdays at Noon Bible Study: Tuesdays at 7 p.m. Motto: “A Ministry of Reconciliation Where Everybody is Somebody!” Website: http://isleofpatmosbc.org Church Email: ipbcsecretary@verizon.net
Greater Mt. Calvary Holy Church Bishop Alfred A. Owens, Jr.; Senior Bishop & Evangelist Susie C. Owens – Co-Pastor 610 Rhode Island Avenue, NE Washington, DC 20002 (202) 529-4547 office • (202) 529-4495 fax Sunday Worship Service: 8 AM and 10:45 AM Sunday Youth Worship Services: 1st & 4th 10:45 AM; 804 R.I. Ave., NE 5th 8 AM & 10:45 AM; Main Church Prayer Services Tuesday – Noon, Wednesday 6 AM & 6:30 PM Calvary Bible Institute: Year-Round Contact Church Communion Every 3rd Sunday The Church in The Hood that will do you Good! www.gmchc.org emailus@gmchc.org
ST Marks Baptist Come Worship with us... St. Mark's Baptist Church 624 Underwood Street, NW Washington, dc 20011 Dr. Raymond T. Matthews, Pastor and First Lady Marcia Matthews Sunday School 9:am Worship Service 10:am Wed. Noon Day prayer service Thur. Prayer service 6:45 pm Thur. Bible Study 7:15 pm
We are proud to provide the trophies for the Washington Informer Spelling Bee
Service & Time Sunday Worship 7:45A.M & 11A.M Communion Service 2nd Sunday 11A.M Prayer Service Tuesday 7:00 P.M Bible Study Tuesday 8:00 P.M Sunday Church School 10:00 A.M Sunday “A church reaching and winning our community for Christ” morningstarbaptistchurch@verizon.net www.morningstarchurch-dc.org
Mount Carmel Baptist Church
52 Years of Expert Engraving Services
Joseph N. Evans, Ph.D Senior Pastor 901 Third Street N.W. Washington, DC. 20001 Phone (202) 842-3411 Fax (202) 682-9423 Sunday Church School : 9: 30am Sunday Morning Worship: 10: 45am Bible Study Tuesday: 6: 00pm Prayer Service Tuesday: 7:00pm Holy Communion: 3rd Sunday 10: 45am themcbc.org
48 Feb. 14, 2013 - Feb. 20, 2013
The Washington Informer
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religion Baptist
All Nations Baptist Church
Friendship Baptist Church 900 Delaware Avenue, SW Washington, DC 20020 (202) 488-7417 (202) 484-2242 Rev. Dr. J. Michael Little Pastor Sunrise Prayer: 6:00 AM Sunday School: 9:30 AM Morning Worship 11:00 AM Holy Communion: 3rd Sunday-11:00AM www.friendshipbaptistdc.org Email: frienshipde1900@verizon.net
Rev. Dr. James Coleman Pastor 2001 North Capitol St, N.E. • Washington, DC 20002 Phone (202) 832-9591
King Emmanuel Baptist Church Rev. Daryl F. Bell Pastor 2324 Ontario Road, NW Washington, DC 20009 (202) 232-1730
Sunday Church School – 9:30 AM Sunday Worship Service – 11:00 AM Holy Communion – 1st Sunday at 11:00 AM Prayer – Wednesdays, 6:00 PM Bible Study – Wednesdays, 7:00 PM Christian Education School of Biblical Knowledge Saturdays, 9:30 AM – 11:00 AM, Call for Registration
Sunday School – 9:30 am Sunday Worship Service – 11:00 am Baptismal Service – 1st Sunday – 9:30 am Holy Communion – 1st Sunday – 11:00 am Prayer Meeting & Bible Study – Wednesday -7:30 pm
Website: www.allnationsbaptistchurch.com All Nations Baptist Church – A Church of Standards
“Where Jesus is the King”
Zion Baptist Church
Israel Baptist Church
Emmanuel Baptist Church Rev. Dr. Clinton W. Austin Pastor 2409 Ainger Pl.,SE – WDC 20020 (202) 678-0884 – Office (202) 678-0885 – Fax “Come Grow With Us and Establish a Blessed Family” Sunday Worship 7:30am & 10:45am Baptism/Holy Communion 3rd Sunday Family Bible Study Tuesdays – 6:30pm Prayer Service Tuesdays – 8:00pm www.emmanuelbaptistchurchdc.org
Sermon On The Mount Temple Of Joy Apostolic Faith
Florida Avenue Baptist Church Dr. Earl D. Trent Senior Pastor
Rev. Dr. George C. Gilbert SR. Pastor
623 Florida Ave.. NW • WDC. 20001 Church (202) 667-3409 • Study (202) 265-0836 Home Study (301) 464-8211 • Fax (202) 483-4009
4504 Gault Place, N.E. Washington, D.C 20019 202-397-7775 – 7184
Sunday Worship Services: 10:00 a.m. Sunday Church School: 8:45 – 9:45 a.m. Holy Communion: Every First Sunday Intercessory Prayer: Monday – 7:00-8:00 p.m. Pastor’s Bible Study: Wednesday –7:45 p.m. Midweek Prayer: Wednesday – 7:00 p.m. Noonday Prayer Every Thursday
9:30AM. Sunday Church School 11:00 Am. Sunday Worship Service The Lord’s Supper 1st Sunday Wednesday 7:00pm Prayer & Praise Services 7:30pm. Bible Study Saturday before 4th Sunday Men, Women, Youth Discipleship Ministries 10:30am A Christ Centered Church htubc@comcast.net
Matthews Memorial Baptist Church
Rev. Keith W. Byrd, Sr. Pastor
Rev. Dr. Morris L Shearin, Sr. Pastor
Rev. Charles Y. Davis, Jr. Sr. Pastor
5606 Marlboro Pike District Heights, MD 20747 301-735-6005
Dr. C. Matthew Hudson, Jr, Pastor
4850 Blagdon Ave, NW • Washington D.C 20011 Phone (202) 722-4940 • Fax (202) 291-3773
1251 Saratoga Ave., NE Washington, DC 20018 (202) 269-0288
14350 Frederick Rd. Cooksville, MD 21723 (410) 489-5069
Elder Herman L. Simms, Pastor
2616 MLK Ave., SE • Washington, DC 20020 Office 202-889-3709 • Fax 202-678-3304
Sunday Worship Service: 10:00 A.M. Sunday School: 8:30 A.M. Holy Communion1st Sunday: 10:00 A.M.
Sunday Worship Service: 11:00 am Sunday School: 9:30 am Wed. Bible Study/Prayer: 6:30-8:00 pm Holy Communion 2nd Sunday Pre-Marital Counseling/Venue for Weddings Prison Ministry Knowledge Base
Prayer Service: Wednesday at 6:30 P.M. Bible Study: Wednesday at 7:00 P.M.
Web: www.FullGospelBC.org Email: fullgospelbc1946@verizon.net “IF YOU NEED REST, THIS HOUSE IS OPEN”
Sunday Worship Service 10:15AM- Praise and Worship Services Sunday School 9:00am Monday: Noon Bible School Wednesday: Noon & 7PM: Pastor’s Bible Study Ordinance of Baptism 2nd Holy Communion 4th Sunday Mission Zion Baptist Church Shall; Enlist Sinners, Educate Students, Empower the Suffering, Encourage the Saints, and Exalt Our Savior. (Acts 2:41-47) www.zionbaptistchurchdc.org
Mount Moriah Baptist Church
St. Luke Baptist Church Rev. Aubrey C. Lewis Pastor 1415 Gallatin Street, NW Washington, DC 20011-3851 P: (202) 726-5940 Sunday Worship: 11:00 a.m. Sunday School: 9:15 a.m. Holy Communion: 11:00 a.m., 3rd Sun. Bible Study: Monday - 7:00 p.m. Prayer Meeting: Thursday - 7:00 p.m.
Dr. Lucius M. Dalton, Senior Pastor 1636 East Capitol Street, NE Washington, DC 20003 Telephone: 202-544-5588 Fax: 202-544-2964 Sunday Worship Services: 7:45 am and 10:45 am Holy Communion: 1st Sundays at 7:45 am and 10:45 am Sunday School: 9:30 am Prayer & Praise Service: Tuesdays at 12 noon and 6:30 pm Bible Study: Tuesdays at 1 pm and 7 pm Youth Bible Study: Fridays at 7 pm Web: www.mountmoriahchurch.org Email: mtmoriah@mountmoriahchurch.org
Rehoboth Baptist Church
St. Matthews Baptist Church Rev. Dr. Maxwell M. Washington Pastor 1105 New Jersey Ave, S.E • Washington, DC 20003 202 488-7298 Order of Services Sunday Worship Services: 9:05 A.M. Sunday School: 8:00 A.M. Holy Communion 3rd Sunday Morning Prayer Meeting: 7:00 P.M. (Tuesday) Bible Study: 7:30 P.M. (Tuesday) Theme: “Striving to be more like Jesus “Stewardship”. Philippians 3:12-14; Malachi 3:8-10 and 2 Corinthians 9:7 Email: stmatthewbaptist@msn.com Website: www.stmatthewsbaptist.com
Mount Pleasant Baptist Church
Sunday Apostolic Worship Services 11:00 A.M and 5:00 P.M Communion and Feet Wash 4th Sunday at 5:00 P.M Prayer/Seeking Wednesday at 8:00 P.M. Apostolic in Doctrine, Pentecostal in Experience, Holiness in Living, Uncompromised and Unchanged. The Apostolic Faith is still alive –Acts 2:42
New Commandment Baptist Church
Rev. Terry D. Streeter Pastor
Rev. Stephen E. Tucker Pastor and Overseer
215 Rhode Island Ave. N.W. • WD.C. 20001 (202) 332-5748
625 Park Rd, NW • WDC 20010 P: 202 291-5711 • F: 202 291-5666
Early Morning Worship: 7:45 a.m. Sunday School: 9:15 a.m. Morning Worship: 10:45 a.m. Holy Communion: 4th Sunday 7:45 a.m. & 10:45 a.m. C.T.U. Sunday: 2:45 p.m. Bible Study: Wednesday 11:00 a.m. & 7:00 p.m. Prayer Service: Wednesday 8:00 p.m. Noon Day Prayer Service: Mondays 12 p.m.
Sunday Worship Service - 11 am Sunday School - 9:45 am Bible Study & Prayer Wed. - 7 pm Substance Abuse Counseling 7 pm (Mon & Fri) Jobs Partnership - 7 pm (Mon & Wed) Sat. Enrichment Experience - 9:30 am
Salem Baptist Church
“A Church Where Love Is Essential and Praise is Intentional”
Shiloh Baptist Church
Rev. R. Vincent Palmer Pastor
Rev. Alonzo Hart Pastor
Rev. Dr. Wallace Charles Smith Pastor
621 Alabama Avenue, S.E. • Washington, D.C. 20032 P: (202) 561-1111 F: (202) 561-1112
917 N St. NW • Washington, DC 20001 (202) 232-4294
9th & P Street, N.W. • W. D.C. 20001 (202) 232-4200
The Church Where GOD Is Working.... And We Are Working With GOD
Sunrise Prayer Services - Sunday 7:00 a.m.
Sunday Morning Prayer Service: 8:00 a.m. Sunday Church School: 9:15 a.m. Sunday Morning Worship: 10:40 a.m. Third Sunday Baptismal & Holy Communion:10:30 a.m. Tuesday Church At Study Prayer & Praise: 6:30 p.m.
Morning Worship: 8:00 a.m Church School : 9:30 a.m. Morning Worship: 10:55 a.m. Bible Study, Thursday: 6:30 p.m. Prayer Meeting,Thursday : 7:30 p.m.
Sunday Service: 10 am Sunday School for all ages: 8:30 am 1st Sunday Baptism: 10: am 2nd Sunday Holy Communion: 10 am Tuesday: Bible Study: 6:30 pm Prayer Meeting: 7:45 pm
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Holy Trinity United Baptist Church
Early Worship Service 7:30a.m Worship Service 10:45a.m. New Members Class 9:30a.m. Holy Communion : 1st Sunday -10:45a.m Church School 9:30a.m. Prayer, Praise and Bible Study: Wednesday 7p.m Bible Study : Saturday: 11a.m. Baptism: 4th Sunday – 10:45a.m “Empowered to love and Challenged to Lead a Multitude of Souls to Christ”
Peace Baptist Church
Rev. Dr. Michael T. Bell 712 18th Street, NE Washington, DC 20002 Phone 202-399-3450/ Fax 202-398-8836 Sunday Morning Worship Service 7:15 am & 10:50 am Sunday School 9:30am Sunday Morning Worship Service 10:50am Wednesday Prayer & Testimonies Service 7:30pm Wednesday School of the Bible 8:00pm Wednesday - Midweek Prayer Service 12:00 pm - 1:00 pm “The Loving Church of the living lord “ Email Address pbcexec@verizon.net
First Rising Mt. Zion Baptist Church 602 N Street NW • Washington, D.C. 20001 Office:(202) 289-4480 Fax: (202) 289-4595 Sunday Worship Services: 7:45am & 11:00am Sunday school For All Ages 9:30am Prayer Services Wednesday 11:30am & 6:45pm Bible Institute Wednesday at Noon & 7:45pm “Changing Lives On Purpose “ Email: Froffice@firstrising.org Website: www.firstrising.org
Mt. Bethel Baptist Church Rev. Dr. Bobby L. Livingston, Sr. Pastor 75 Rhode Island Ave. NW • Washington, DC 20001 (202) 667-4448
Sunrise Prayer Service 6:00 A.M. Sunday Church School 8:30 A.M. Pre-Worship Devotionals 9:45 A.M. Morning Worship Services 10:00 A.M. Holy Communion 1st Sunday Worship Services Bible Study Tuesdays, 6:00 P.M. Thursdays, 1:00 P.M. Prayer Meetings Tuesdays, 7:00 P.M. Thursdays, 12:00 P.M.
Pennsylvania Ave. Baptist Church Rev. Dr. Kendrick E. Curry Pastor 3000 Pennsylvania Ave.. S.E Washington, DC 20020 202 581-1500 Sunday Church School: 9:30 A.M. Sunday Worship Service: 11:00 A.M. Monday Adult Bible Study: 7:00 P.M. Wednesday Youth & Adult Activities: 6:30 P.M. Prayer Service Bible Study
Mt. Horeb Baptist Church Rev. Dr. H. B. Sampson, III Pastor 2914 Bladensburg Road, NE Wash., DC 20018 Office: (202) 529-3180 Fax: (202) 529-7738 Order of Services Worship Service: 7:30 a.m. Sunday School: 9:00 a.m. Worship Service: 10:30 a.m. Holy Communion: 4th Sunday 7:30 a.m. & 10:30a.m. Prayer Services: Tuesday 7:30 p.m. Wednesday 12 Noon Email:mthoreb@mthoreb.org Website:www.mthoreb.org For further information, please contact me at (202) 529-3180.
Feb. 14, 2013 - Feb. 20, 2013
49
CLASSIFIEDS legal notice SUPERIOR COURT OF THE DISTRICT OF COLUMBIA Probate Division Washington, D.C. 20001-2131 Administration No. 2013 ADM 000047 Mary L. Gardner aka Mary Louise Gardner Decedent NOTICE OF APPOINTMENT, NOTICE TO CREDITORS AND NOTICE TO UNKNOWN HEIRS Barbara Ann Williams, whose address is 4 Latimer Lane, Bloomfield, CT 06002, was appointed personal representative of the estate of Mary L. Gardner aka Mary Louise Gardner, who died on August 16, 2012 with a Will, and will serve without Court supervision. All unknown heirs and heirs whose whereabouts are unknown shall enter their appearance in this proceeding. Objections to such appointment (or to the probate of decedent’s Will) shall be filed with the Register of Wills, D.C., 515 5th Street, N.W. Third Floor Washington, D.C. 20001, on or before August 7, 2013. Claims against the decedent shall be presented to the undersigned with a copy to the Register of Wills or filed with the Register of Wills with a copy to the undersigned, on or before August 7, 2013, or be forever barred. Persons believed to be heirs or legatees of the decedent who do not receive a copy of this notice by mail within 25 days of its first publication shall so inform the Register of Wills, including name, address and relationship. Date of first publication: February 7, 2013 Barbara Ann Williams Personal Representative TRUE TEST COPY
legal notice SUPERIOR COURT OF THE DISTRICT OF COLUMBIA Probate Division Washington, D.C. 20001-2131 Administration No. 2012 ADM 255 Leon Wilbert Hill Decedent Deborah D. Boddie, Esq. 1308 Ninth Street, NW, Suite 300 Washington, DC 20001 Attorney NOTICE OF APPOINTMENT, NOTICE TO CREDITORS AND NOTICE TO UNKNOWN HEIRS Deborah D. Boddie, Esq., whose address is 1308 Ninth Street, NW, Suite 300, Washington, DC 20001, was appointed personal representative of the estate of Leon Wilbert Hill, who died on April 9, 2011 with a Will, and will serve without Court supervision. All unknown heirs and heirs whose whereabouts are unknown shall enter their appearance in this proceeding. Objections to such appointment (or to the probate of decedent’s will) shall be filed with the Register of Wills, D.C., 515 5th Street, N.W. Third Floor Washington, D.C. 20001, on or before August 7, 2013. Claims against the decedent shall be presented to the undersigned with a copy to the Register of Wills or filed with the Register of Wills with a copy to the undersigned, on or before August 7, 2013, or be forever barred. Persons believed to be heirs or legatees of the decedent who do not receive a copy of this notice by mail within 25 days of its first publication shall so inform the Register of Wills, including name, address and relationship. Date of first publication: February 7, 2013 Deborah D. Boddie, Esq. Personal Representative TRUE TEST COPY
legal notice SUPERIOR COURT OF THE DISTRICT OF COLUMBIA Probate Division Washington, D.C. 20001-2131 Administration No. 2012 ADM 1059 Mary Catherine Willoby Decedent NOTICE OF APPOINTMENT, NOTICE TO CREDITORS AND NOTICE TO UNKNOWN HEIRS Mary Bennett, whose address is 819 Yuma Street, SE, Washington, DC 20032, was appointed personal representative of the estate of Mary Catherine Willoby, who died on March 28, 1989 without a Will. All unknown heirs and heirs whose whereabouts are unknown shall enter their appearance in this proceeding. Objections to such appointment shall be filed with the Register of Wills, D.C., 515 5th Street, N.W. Third Floor Washington, D.C. 20001, on or before August 7, 2013. Claims against the decedent shall be presented to the undersigned with a copy to the Register of Wills or filed with the Register of Wills with a copy to the undersigned, on or before August 7, 2013, or be forever barred. Persons believed to be heirs or legatees of the decedent who do not receive a copy of this notice by mail within 25 days of its first publication shall so inform the Register of Wills, including name, address and relationship. Date of first publication: February 7, 2013 Mary Bennett Personal Representative TRUE TEST COPY
Anne Meister Register of Wills Washington Informer
Anne Meister Register of Wills Washington Informer
Anne Meister Register of Wills Washington Informer
SUPERIOR COURT OF THE DISTRICT OF COLUMBIA Probate Division Washington, D.C. 20001-2131
SUPERIOR COURT OF THE DISTRICT OF
SUPERIOR COURT OF THE DISTRICT OF COLUMBIA Civil Division
Administration No. 2013 ADM 54
Administration No. 2012 SEB 313
Carolyn C. Gray Decedent
George Tisdale, Sr.
NOTICE OF APPOINTMENT, NOTICE TO CREDITORS AND NOTICE TO UNKNOWN HEIRS
NOTICE OF APPOINTMENT, NOTICE TO
COLUMBIA Probate Division Washington, D.C. 20001-2131
Decedent
CREDITORS AND NOTICE TO UNKNOWN HEIRS
Johnnie P. Gray, whose address is 4203 Hayes Street, NE, Washington, DC 20019, was appointed personal representative of the estate of Carolyn C. Gray, who died on December 22, 2012 with a Will, and will serve without Court supervision. All unknown heirs and heirs whose whereabouts are unknown shall enter their appearance in this proceeding. Objections to such appointment (or to the probate of decedent’s will) shall be filed with the Register of Wills, D.C., 515 5th Street, N.W. Third Floor Washington, D.C. 20001, on or before August 7, 2013. Claims against the decedent shall be presented to the undersigned with a copy to the Register of Wills or filed with the Register of Wills with a copy to the undersigned, on or before August 7, 2013, or be forever barred. Persons believed to be heirs or legatees of the decedent who do not receive a copy of this notice by mail within 25 days of its first publication shall so inform the Register of Wills, including name, address and relationship.
Gwendolyn W. Tisdale, whose address is 3201
Date of first publication: February 7, 2013
Date of first publication:
Johnnie P. Gray Personal Representative
Gwendolyn W. Tisdale
TRUE TEST COPY
TRUE TEST COPY
Anne Meister Register of Wills Washington Informer
Anne Meister
Park Drive, SE, Washington, DC 20020, was appointed personal representative of the estate of George Tisdale, Sr., who died on January 27, 2012 with a Will. All unknown heirs and heirs whose whereabouts are unknown shall enter their appearance in this proceeding. Objections to such appointment (or to the probate of decedent’s Will) shall be filed with the Register of Wills, D.C., 515 5th Street, N.W. Third Floor Washington, D.C. 20001, on or before March 9, 2013. Claims against the decedent shall be presented to the undersigned with a copy to the Register of Wills or filed with the Register of Wills with a copy to the undersigned, on or before March 9, 2013, or be forever barred. Persons believed to be heirs or legatees of the decedent who do not receive a copy of this notice by mail within 25 days of its first publication shall so inform the Register of Wills, including name, address and relationship.
February 7, 2013
Personal Representative
Register of Wills Washington Informer
50 Feb. 14, 2013 - Feb. 20, 2013
ORDER OF PUBLICATION-CHANGE OF NAME IN RE: Applicant’s Full Name: Muhsin Muhammad Abdulhalim Civil Action No. 0000671-13 Muhsin Muhammad Abdulhalim, having filed a application for judgment changing the name from Muhsin Muhammad Abdulhalim to Anthony Muhsin Abdulhalim Driver and having applied to the Court for an order of publication of the notice required by law in such cases, it is by the Court, this 29th day of January 2013, hereby ORDERED, that a copy of this Order be published once a week for three (3) consecutive weeks, in The Washington Informer, a newspaper of general circulation of the District of Columbia; and it is further ORDERED, that publication must begin no later than 12 days after the filling of the application; and it is further ORDERED, that the FINAL HEARING on this application to change name will be held in Judgein-Chambers, Rm 4220 in the District of Columbia at 500 Indiana Ave., NW, Washington, DC 20001, on the 22nd day of March, 2013 at 3:15 pm. If any person desires to oppose this application, that person or his or her attorney must be present at the hearing or file written detailed objections five (5) business days in advance of the hearing with Judge-in-Chambers and mail a copy to the applicant or applicant’s counsel; and it is further the applicant must send the application for change of name and notice of final hearing to the applicant’s creditors personally or by registered or certified mail and show proof of service by filing the affidavit/ declaration of service. R. Wertheim Judge First Date of Publication: February 7, 2013
The Washington Informer
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that his ignorance would not affect his corporate profit that he simply misspoke. Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. said to support evil is to embrace evil, is to be evil. This is an evil I can gleefully walk away from. Mackey says that it doesn’t matter that conscious people won’t support his store. He may have a point. But I’m gong to take my little $200 a week elsewhere and I know others who will do the same thing. John Mackey, your words have been duly noted. If my words are irrelevant,
MALVEAUX continued from Page 36
fascism as “a right wing nationalist ideology or movement with a hierarchical structure that is opposed to democracy and liberalism.” How did President Obama get in this mix? CEO John Mackey, unsupportive of Obamacare (as many business leaders are) chose to take opposition to another level, and decided that “fascism” was a great way to frame his ire. Then he said it didn’t matter, that his word choice was careless,
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keep shopping at Whole Paycheck and supporting oppression. If you agree with me, send John Mackey a note via Libba. Letton@wholefood.com or Kate.Lowery@wholefoods.com. To use a term like “fascism” in the context of public policy is ugly and unacceptable. To cooperate is to be complicit. wi
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be eliminated and the Black American experiences should be integrated into schools’ regular curriculum. “If there is still too little ‘black history’ taught in America’s schools,” Cooke writes, “or if ‘black history’ is being taught incorrectly – then we should change the curriculum. If black Americans remain unfairly in the shadows, then the solution is to bring them out, not to sort and concentrate them by color.” This is an argument built on sand. For one thing, Cooke cites no actual examples of the supposed sins of Black History Month – no examples of schools or school systems where Black history is taught only in February and ignored in the curriculum the rest of the year. No examples of colleges where Black studies courses ignore the impact of the other currents of American society. No examples where in either elementary and secondary schools or colleges there is what he calls the “equally absurd” repetitive focus on heroic Black figures.
of their founding, and the fact that, just like Black History Month, their establishment was approved by acts of Congress, and signed by Republican and Democratic presidents. In fact, just as Black History Month does, they underscore valid – and widespread – educational practice of focusing on particular facets of a broad topic and the widespread social-group practice of closely examining their particular experience in America. And they do something else. They all echo the question that Carter G. Woodson’s Negro History Week, now Black History Month set before the nation more than 80 years ago. That question was never more powerfully expressed than in the penultimate line posed by Curtis Mayfield and The Impressions in the title track of their 1969 album, “This Is My Country:” “Shall we perish unjust,” the song asks, “or live equal as a nation.” wi Lee A. Daniels is a longtime journalist based in New York City. His latest book is Last Chance: The Political Threat to Black America.
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These attacks on Black History Month ignore many things: They ignore how deeply Black history has already been “integrated” into broader examinations of American history, as even a cursory perusal of popular and scholarly books would indicate. They ignore how complex and searching explorations of Black history have become – as a forthcoming documentary airing next week on the Public Broadcasting Service on Whitney M. Young, Jr., the charismatic leader of the National Urban League from 1961 until his untimely death in 1971, will show. Most of all, they ignore why over the last four decades other sub-groups of Americans have adopted the “special month” model. Cooke does list some of these: Women’s History Month, South Asian Heritage Month, Asian-Pacific American Heritage Month, Haitian Heritage Month, Jewish American Heritage Month, Caribbean-American Heritage Month, National Hispanic Heritage Month, National American Indian Heritage Month, and Alaskan Native Heritage Month. Revealingly, he merely lists them, ignoring the implications
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fletcher continued from Page 36 be to the organizing of workers in the South. What the Republicans are very well aware—which is why they are desperately pushing so-called “right to work” laws—is that the stronger workers are through their unions, they more likely it is that Republicans will lose elections. Why? Because labor unions will be challenging candidates on questions www.washingtoninformer.com
of economic justice and in light of the Republicans consolidating as both the ‘non-Black’ party as well as the party in favor of economic inequality, labor unions are a direct threat. If we want to flip the script in future elections in states such as South Carolina not only do serious resources need to be put in at election time, but labor unions need to be built and rebuilt as bases for progress. They are one of the few organizations that
brings workers together across racial, ethnic and gender lines. This is also what makes them so dangerous for corporate America and their political allies in the Republican Party. wi Bill Fletcher, Jr. is a Senior Scholar with the Institute for Policy Studies, the immediate past president of TransAfrica Forum and the author of “They’re Bankrupting Us” – And Twenty Other Myths about Unions. Follow him at www.billfletcherjr.com The Washington Informer
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Edelman continued from Page 37
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many Black communities locked in their homes after dark in a new kind of American terror. And he would be dismayed by the resurgence of hate crimes such as the cruel hit-and-run death of James Craig Anderson, a Black man assaulted and then run over in 2011 by a group of young White men who made a habit of coming to Jackson to assault and harass Black people for sport. But he would be proud that they, unlike his own killer, were brought to justice swiftly by the county district attorney, the son of Black civil rights pioneers. In some ways the battles of the Civil Rights Movement were easier to fight 50 years ago because they were easier to see. Today, the rigid lines that create two systems of opportunity for children in Mississippi and elsewhere are no longer written into law but remain present and the
children know it. One group of children is still tracked towards limited opportunity, second class citizenship, and the invisible but powerful cradle to school to prison pipeline. Despite having more elected officials and professionals now, there are fewer of the adult leaders on the ground who were once present in every community and totally focused on mentoring and preparing the next generation, teaching strong values, setting high standards, and making sure the future was better for Black children. wi Marian Wright Edelman is president of the Children’s Defense Fund whose Leave No Child Behind® mission is to ensure every child a Healthy Start, a Head Start, a Fair Start, a Safe Start and a Moral Start in life and successful passage to adulthood with the help of caring families and communities. For more information go to www.childrensdefense.org.
ty efforts, things are getting worse. Last year, 243 people under 25 were killed in Chicago. That’s an 11 percent increase over 2011 and a 26 percent jump from 2010.” Chicago homicides are not limited to the youth. The Reporter also noted, “In 2012, not only did Chicago lead the nation in homicides, it witnessed nearly 100 more murders than New York City, even though the Big Apple has three times as many residents. And Chicago witnessed 215 more murders than Los Angeles – home to more than a million more people.” Because of highly-publicized mass murders – including shooting deaths at Sandy Hook Elementary in Newtown, Conn.; a movie theater in Aurora, Colorado; Fort Hood, Texas and Virginia Tech – much of the gun debate has centered on reducing or eliminating access to assault weapons and high-capacity magazines.
While those are laudable goals, some police chiefs have pointed out that handguns kill far more people than assault weapons. In its latest report titled, “Black Homicide Victimization in the United States: An Analysis of 2010 Homicide Data,” the Violence Policy Center reported: “For homicides in which the weapon used could be identified, 83 percent of black victims (5,073 out of 6,149) were shot and killed with guns. Of these, 72 percent (3,658 victims) were killed with handguns. There were 617 victims killed with knives or other cutting instruments, 219 victims killed by bodily force, and 162 victims killed by a blunt object.” Overall, Blacks are more than six times more likely to be homicide victims than Whites. Citing FBI crime reports, the Violence Policy Center observed, “…In 2010 there were 6,469 black homicide victims in the United States. The homicide rate among black victims in the United States was 16.32 per 100,000. For that year, the overall national homicide rate was 4.42 per 100,000. For whites, the national ho-
micide rate was 2.66 per 100,000.” In addition to the need to address handgun violence, President Obama, Congress and law enforcement officials should acknowledge that violence is a serious problem and more often than not, the victim knew or had a relationship with the person who killed them. “For homicides in which the victim to offender relationship could be identified, 70 percent of black victims (2,146 out of 3,058) were murdered by someone they knew. Nine hundred twelve victims were killed by strangers,” the Violence Policy Center report stated. If this country is serious about curbing murders, it must focus on tragic deaths, such as the murder of Hadiya Pendleton and 20 young kids in Newtown, Conn. But it must also deal with handguns and the murder of people who have or have had a relationship with their killer. Otherwise, all the tough talk on reducing violence is empty rhetoric. wi
tribe], according to Dr. E. Newton Jackson, a D.C. native, who is now associate provost and professor of sport management at the University of North Florida.” Chief Osceola, was an escaped African slave who ran away to join the tribe in the Great Dismal Swamp. But, Jackson said, he could not ride a horse, and when he tried to make peace with America, he was captured and beheaded. With that in mind, I had to ask the big question: “What do Black folks like myself, who have supported the Indian cause since 1992 tell folks who throw up in my face the fact that in 2012 the Cherokee Nation disenfranchised thousands of Black Indians, declaring they
are officially not members of the tribe they believed they belonged to for decades?” I posed that question to panel moderator Dr. Manley A. Begay Jr., who is co-director of the Project on American Indian Economic Development at Harvard University, and a trustee of the Museum of the American Indian. Dr. Begay stammered for a few seconds, and then asked if there were any Cherokees in the room, declaring that the various Indian “nations” are just that, independent, self-governing “nations” which are recognized as such by the U.S. Constitution. So much for an answer to my Great Black-Indian question.
However, there’s some good news. Since 1968 when Native groups began urging high schools and colleges to voluntarily drop names tied to Native Americans, hundreds of schools have discontinued their use of Indian names and mascots. Current National Collegiate Athletic Association policy bars schools with “hostile and abusive” American Indian-related names from participating in championship or playoff games. Stanford University, St. Bonaventure University, The College of William & Mary and Dartmouth College have all dropped their Indian monikers. Go Washington. wi
porations and property law. So off I went to Mississippi. Medgar Evers, the local head of the NAACP, was the first welcoming face I saw when I arrived. He picked me up at the Jackson airport, took me home to meet and have dinner with Myrlie and their children, and then drove me up to the Mississippi Delta where the SNCC headquarters in Greenwood was located, about 90 miles away. Our first news upon arrival was about a shooting which had terrorized the Black community that day. He would be relieved to know Black Mississippians no longer live in constant fear of the Ku Klux Klan and the kind of White supremacist terrorism that took his life. But he would be alarmed by the proliferation of gun violence that still keeps residents of
curry continued from Page 37
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Muhammad continued from Page 37 dress and customs which they don’t understand, Dr. C. Richard King, co-editor of the Encyclopedia of Native Americans in Sports, and a professor at Washington State University says those who believe that are simply holding on to a “sincere fiction.” The reality is that objectifying Native people
with sports team names in Washington, Kansas City, Cleveland, and Atlanta, is ugly and offensive. Even the spectacle which is staged before games by Florida State University when their mascot Seminole “Chief Osceola” rides out on a horse and plunges his spear [presumably into the head of an opposing team player], is a lie and a disgrace [even though the university compensates the
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