AFRO Trends Spring 2007 by Afro American Newspapers editor

Spring 2007

A publication of the Afro-American Newspapers

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Family Fashion Technology Money Home Lifestyle Food

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African-American News and Lifestyle A perfect combination G et a free subscription to Trends Magazine with your subscription to the Afro-American Newspaper. For more information or to subscribe call 1-800-AFRO-892 or visit www.AFRO.com.

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We’re Still Making History! When you think of Black History Month, what images come to your mind? Certainly, Martin, Malcolm and Marcus make it somewhere near the forefront; and Harriet, Sojourner and Angela are usually close by. But what has always piqued my interest, was trying to figure out the answer to the questions, “Who’s making history now? Who is overcoming insurmountable obstacles and helping others do the same? Who is doing “that thing” that will impact our community in a way that will be appreciated for years to come?” Don’t get me wrong—I have an appreciation for discovering new, or should I say, hidden truths and milestones in our history and, more importantly, sharing that history with all who will pay attention. And this Black History Month, I’ll be snowed under with more programs, literature and discussion than there truly are enough days in February to accommodate. Every February, the Afro-American Newspaper brings what I believe to be the most authentic Black History Month reading experience available. And this year the tradition continues, so be sure to pick up the Black History Series this year, based on the theme, “From Slavery to Freedom.” But in Trends, we wanted to approach this season from a different perspective. This edition of Trends sheds light on the young, under 40, movers and shakers who are already making their mark in history. They are having a tremendous impact in bricks and mortar, body and soul and building a legacy that has a framework of lasting beyond their lifetime. Trends writers not only got an opportunity to interview, and

in some cases shadow, 25 of the hottest trendsetters in the Baltimore/Washington area, but they also got a chance to see first-hand the impact, challenges and success each of these individuals is experiencing. If you think professional athletes are spectacular, your appreciation for sports medicine and the doctors who keep the athletes in play should swell. Trends writer Tiffany Ginyard writes about Dr. Yvette Rooks, a lead member of what is possibly the first minority led sports team in the country. Ever had a taste for something new? Tyra Willams and Ernest Alexander explored some of the hottest restaurants in the area and will tell you about the chefs and owners who are making it happen! Looking for quaint and trendy in fashion? Alafaka Opuiyo writes about the perfect fashion boutique in Washington, D.C., Lettie Gooch. Where are the social leaders of tomorrow? Dorothy Rowley, Tiffany, Mike Zimmerman and Zenitha Prince bring to you a list of promising community leaders, each uniquely gifted and using their relationships and resources to create change. This Black History Month, let’s make sure we reflect on our past, but let’s also always remember to push for a better future. Enjoy this February edition of Trends. As always, food, fashion, finance, health, home and technology. All the best to you.

John J. Oliver Jr. Chairman/Publisher

Contributors Editor Ernest ALexander, Staff Writer

Tiffany Ginyard, Staff Writer

Zenitha Prince, Washington Editor, AFRO

Dorothy Rowley, Staff Writer

Alafaka Opuiyo, Staff Writer

Dorothy Boulware, Baltimore Editor, AFRO

Not pictured: Michael Zimmerman, Staff Writer

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Tyra Williams, Layout Editor, AFRO

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A publication of the Afro-American Newspapers The Baltimore Afro-American Newspaper 2519 N. Charles Street Baltimore, MD 21218 (410) 554-8200 The Washington Afro-American Newspaper 1917 Benning Road NE Washington, DC 20002 (202) 332-0080 John J. Oliver Jr. Chairman/Publisher Director of Marketing Ammanuel Moore Director of Advertising Susan Warshaw Sales Robert Blount Monica Brooks Marquise Goodwin Michele Hopkins Jessie Murphy Lee Randolph Vetta Ridgeway-Fulks Editor Rev. Dorothy Boulware Contributing Writers Ernest Alexander Tiffany Ginyard Alafaka Opuiyo Zenitha Prince Dorothy Rowley Tyra Williams Michael Zimmerman

Tara Andrews – Public policy reformer .................................................... 5 Darin Atwater – Soulful composer ......................................................... 5 Nicholas Batey – Trendy bistro owner .....................................................6 Demond X and Mothyna X Brightful Partners in community development .......................................................8 Heber Brown – Pastoral activist MD ....................................................... 5 Jamal-Harrison Bryant – Radical shepherd ................................................9 Clarinda Burston – Stop the Madness ......................................................8 Al Davis – Affordable housing developer ................................................ 10 Jayfus Doswell – Information specialist ...................................................9 Christo Johnson – Teacher ................................................................. 11 Patrick Lewis – Chemist .................................................................... 11 Cheriss May – Social designer ........................................................... 12 David Miller – Urban educator ........................................................... 12 Farajii Muhammad – Budding politician ................................................ 12 Jonathan Nelson – Gospel singer ..........................................................13 Jabari Nture – Economic activist ..........................................................13 Kimberly Oliver – Teacher of the Year ................................................... 18 Shawn Peterson – Milton’s Grill ........................................................... 19 Kwame Rich – Youth intervention ........................................................ 16 Nolan Rollins – Business “Influencer” ....................................................17 Yvette Rooks – Sports medicine ........................................................... 14 Roland Selby – Financial management...................................................17 Roddrick Stokes – Youth Intervention .................................................... 16 Theresa Watts – Lettie Gooch, D.C. Fashion ............................................ 18

Graphic Designer Jessica Gorham Photographers Travis Barnes Danita Delaney John Moore

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Tara Andrews

2u5nder 4 0 Black History

Emerging

Makers

Age: 33 Education: Bowling Green State University; University of Maryland School of Law Vocation: Lawyer and aspiring politician

Tara Andrews was born under the sign of Libra, the scales of justice, and though she says she doesn’t believe in astrology, justice is the lodestone that has guided her life. In the 10 years since the Hamilton, Ohio, native made Baltimore her home, Andrews has worn the mantle of “public policy reformer,” becoming a well known voice for juveniles and adults caught up in the justice system as member and chair of the Juvenile Justice Coalition and director of the Maryland Justice Coalition. “That’s where I want to be—where these fights are going on,” she said. “My assignment is to look at public policies, see how they work for and against people, their safety and their success, determining what changes are to be made and advocating for those changes.” These days, Andrews serves as director of advocacy for the American Lung Association, though she says she remains a “freedom fighter” in the justice causes close to her heart. Andrews said also, she remains dedicated to seeking public office. Though she made two unsuccessful attempts in 2002 and 2006 to secure seats in the Maryland House of Delegates and Senate, respectively, Andrews said she sees herself going straight to the top of the leadership ladder. “I made the decision at the age of 14 that I’m going to take it all the way to the White House.”

Heber Brown

Darin Atwater

Age: 36 Schools: Charles Jordan High School (North Carolina); Morgan State University; Peabody Institute Career: Founder and Artistic Director of Soulful Symphony Bringing innovative ideas together with hard work, Darin Atwater is changing the way that we listen to music. An internationally known composer, conductor, and pianist, Atwater is the founder and Artistic Director of Soulful Symphony, a non-profit arts organization dedicated to the preservation of African-American cultural expression and to the presentation of symphonic music representative of diverse genres. Playing the piano since the age of four, the Washington D.C. native has been making huge strides in the field of music. He has done works on recording projects by Donnie McClurkin, Yolanda Adams, Shirley Caesar, and many others. Currently in their concert season, Atwater’s Soulful Symphony orchestra has seven concerts planned at two concert halls. In keeping with his redefining of orchestral music, Atwater is starting his new hip-hop symphony called “Paint Factory” this upcoming May in which hip-hop/rap music will be intertwined with orchestra style music. By orchestrating around hiphop music as he would around jazz music, Atwater is combining the two to create a unique hybrid of sound. “We just want to continue to make an imprint in the city and around the world with Soulful Symphony. We’re just here to continue to change culture and continue the tradition of great institutions.”

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Education: Edgewood High School; Morgan State University;Virginia Union University Age: 26 Profession: Manager, The Maryland Mentoring Partnerships’ Government in Higher Education program The Rev. Heber Brown works in the Maryland Mentoring Partnership’s Young Clergy for Social Change program (YCSC)—a group of younger preachers focused on living out the tenets of their faith. He was licensed to preach on Thanksgiving Day, 2000, and exclaims with pride, “What a day to be licensed.” Brown graduated from Edgewood High School in Harford County. He earned his bachelor’s degree at Morgan State University and, from there, went on to pursue graduate studies at Virginia Union University’s School of Theology in Richmond. He descends from a family long-rooted in carrying out the ministries of Christ. His father, for example, is pastor of Shiloh Baptist Church in Edgemere, Md. His late grandfather, who helped establish churches in Baltimore City, was bishop of Brown’s Chapel Freewill Baptist Church in Newark, NJ. “Growing up, I saw constant examples of people in my family who were committed to serving God,” said Brown. According to the northeast Baltimore resident, YCSC advocates on local, national and international issues. He said the group is currently committed to the issue of genocide in Darfur, Sudan, and recently sponsored a Baltimore Darfur Day to raise awareness of genocide in that country. Brown said he wants to continue raising awareness of social issues in the city’s Black communities. “Some people forget that Dr. [Martin Luther] King was a Baptist minister who led people in faith and their responsibility to the community,” said Brown. While he is not pastoring now, Brown has his hopes set high for accomplishing that goal. “That will come down the horizon,” he confidently said.

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The Bicycle Bistro Welcome to global cuisine By Tyra E. Williams In retrospect, there were always tools that minimized the likelihood of childhood aversions: a nightlight for a child afraid of the dark; a plush teddy bear to acclimate a child to pets; there were also helmets, knee guards and the guiding hand of a parental figure as he or she steadied the back of a bicycle that a youngster learned to ride. Regardless of the scenario, some words can still trigger the reemergence of childhood abhorrences that make one gleeful and anxious all at the same time. Two of those words are “The Bicycle.” The Bicycle Bistro located at 1444 Light Street in the Federal Hill section of Baltimore is far from 10speed bikes, kickstands, Age: 27 nagging psyches and School: Pennsylvania Culinary or phobias, but a posh, Occupation: Owner and CEO of The Bicycle Bistro hip and sophisticated restaurant that takes also an assortment of wines available at its patrons on a worldthe restaurant. class journey. Similar to his global dishes, the “We don’t have a owner presents ambitious and fresh. target clientele,” said Take for example, his ability to fuse Nicholas Batey, 27, unique recipes, ingredients, tastes and chef and owner of cultures all into one dish. “We do a The Bicycle. “On little fusion…a little Japanese with the weekend we a Spanish flare," said Batey with a tend to get a mature Photos by Travis Barnes slight grin, maybe recalling his jourclientele, but durThe mouth-watering warm pear salad contains roasted pears stuffed with Roquefort cheese, ney of being a 16-year-old kid with ing the week we get honey balsamic reduction, candied cayenne walnuts, grape tomatoes and orange segments. his first gig as a server at a nursing more of a 25-and-over home in Ellicott City, Md., to a 27crowd,” continued year-old restaurant owner. The grin enced by the word-of-mouth reviews from the “regulars.” Batey. fades slightly and Batey leans in as the cuisine cacoph“The restaurant has always been known as a good resUnder Batey’s reign, the barely year-old restaurant ony grows: pans clanging, the sizzle of rising steam and taurant. It had a good reputation and we kind of wanted which already existed some six years prior to the new the conversations of nearby restaurant-goers. Nicholas to just improve upon it,” said the owner, referring to the owner’s purchase, has garnered quite a reputation in Batey's paid work experience as a chef spans some eleven changing-of the-guard. “We tweaked a couple of things. Baltimore and Washington, D.C. years. He first began to develop his skills as a young It was kind of like—’if it’s not broke, don’t fix it.” Some people are enticed by the boldly propped menu child. After a failed attempt as a mechanical engineer The Bicycle Bistro menu boasts everything from that appears in the front window, while others are influWest Indian Mahi Mahi to a warm pear salad. There are major in college, Batey said he decided to pursue his

Nicholas Batey

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A publication of the Afro-American Newspapers

2/1/07 7:41:21 PM

These ladies enjoy a night of fine dining and cuisine at The Bicycle. From left: Ayrika Fletcher, Samantha Gross, Monique Lemlon and Rene Stephens. passion by attending culinary school. Soon after graduation, the talented chef was hit with a barrage of inquiries from his mother, whom along with Batey's father would become co-owners of the business. "…My mother was like, when are you going to open your own business?" Despite an extensive externship and other on-the-job experience, Batey declared that he wasn't ready. "I wanted to wait until I was 30, when I had some more experience under my belt." In the end, "I got kind of tired of working hard for other people," he continued. For Batey, his parents served as the guiding hand behind him. “I started reading up on how to start my own business. I then put together a 60-page business plan,” said Batey. “I gave it to my parents; they had been saving up some money so they decided to invest in it with me.” Over the past year, the Bicycle has received positive reviews from The Baltimore Sun, City Paper, The New York Times and The Daily Record. In addition to reviews, the restaurant received recognition of excellence from the Zagat Survey in 2006.

Batey leans in as the cuisine cacophony grows: pans clanging, the sizzle of rising steam and the conversations of nearby restaurant-goers. Batey leans in again and takes a swig of lemonade brought to him by fiancee and general manager Saundra Jackson. “I like this restaurant because it doesn't have a formal type of cuisine; we call it global because we can pretty much do whatever kind of food we want." The Bicycle is many things, and the word “fun” pretty much sums it all up. The Bicycle Bistro is located at 1444 Light Street in Baltimore. Please call 410-2341900 or visit www.bicyclebistro.com for reservations.

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Clarinda Burston

Age: 36 Education: Morgan State University and University of Maryland, Eastern Shore Profession: Program Director, Young Peace Inc.

At age 36, the Rev. Clarinda Burston has been busy steadying a course she first set sights on 20 years ago. Today, as head of Young Peace Inc. (YPI)—a community-based organization geared toward saving wayward youths—she has expanded her efforts in Baltimore to Charlotte, N.C., as well. “We sponsor various events and activities in Baltimore and Charlotte to bring salvation to a dying generation. We try to reach out to the unchurched, unsaved young people,”said Burston. “We bring the message of Jesus Christ to youth. We’ve got to get out and get them, because they may not know how to come into the church.” Burston said that among YPI’s offerings are a community high school unity concert and a 100 Churches on 100 Corners initiative which has continually grown since its inception a year ago. She said the concert used to be annual event until YPI started engaging more citywide projects. “Now the concert has sort of grown in connection with the 100 Churches effort,” said Burston. “The concert was to try to draw people together from across the city.” Burston said the churches effort, which started out with 38 churches, has now developed into its own separate movement. It currently involves 50 churches of various denominations and plans call for a total of 100 by the end of 2007. “In 2007, we will also go back on the streets to do more witnessing to the community,” Burston said of YPI, which began in the city’s Northwood neighborhoods. Among its objectives, she said, are salvation, community service and aftercare (for people who’ve come into the program but have no church experiences). “We’re not just going to leave them out there. We will hold their hands and follow up with them,” said Burston.

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Mothyna X Brightful & Demond X Brightful Mothyna X Age: 24 Education: John Marshall High School, Rochester, N.Y.; Morgan State University Vocation: Community educator and women’s issues advocate Demond X Age: 29 Education: GED from Job Corps in Kentucky; Coppin State University Vocation: Teacher and education advocate “It’s a beautiful marriage...it’s what I’ve been praying for for years,” said Demond X Brightful of his one-year union to Mothyna X Brightful Nee James. In addition to a joining of souls, the Brightfuls have a marriage of minds—the two share a passion for community development born from their personal struggles and a shared faith as members of the Nation of Islam. Demond spends his time tutoring and mentoring children from the Baltimore Public School System for free in between his work with the Millions More Movement’s Ministry of Education, New Light Leadership Coalition, his job as a math, science and English teacher at the private School of Original Thought and pursuing a degree in education at Coppin State University. Perhaps, because he dropped out of school in the 8th grade due to the burdens of his parents’ drug and alcohol addictions, Demond puts great stock in the benefits of education. “My philosophy with the children is giving them a healthy respect for life through education and information so they can be beneficiaries of a city and world they contributed to,” he said. Mothyna’s vision is closely associated. Spurred on by Minister Louis Farrakhan’s adage that “A nation can rise no higher than it’s women,” Mothyna has dedicated her service to empowering women. First as Miss Morgan State University 2003-2004, a community educator at Turn Around Inc., which addresses the issues of sexual assault, and as the creator of the Heal a Woman, Heal a Nation annual conference started in 2004. The conference gathers together college women, women in the community and women in transitional housing to look at key issues that affect their lives like health, education and economic and self-empowerment and provide them with resources to address these issues. “If we don’t care for our women and our children our society will fall by the wayside,” Mothyna said. Both Demond and Mothyna say they are guided by a belief that community development is a lifetime commitment, though the path they have chosen is a difficult one. “This takes selflessness, because it’s a career that is not well-paid,” Demond said, a burden greater felt since the pair adopted Demond’s 13-year-old brother. However, Mothyna added, having a partner that shares one’s vision makes the sacrifices easier to bear. “Having each other makes it easier for us to make the sacrifices we need to make to serve the community.”

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Dr. Jamal Harrison-Bryant

Age: 38 School: Baltimore City College; Morehouse College; Duke University; Oxford University Profession: Pastor of Empowerment Temple A.M.E. Church

Over a period of six years, Jamal HarrisonBryant has built an Empowerment empire. Coming from the humble beginnings of conducting church in a catering hall to leading a congregation of over 9,000, live broadcasts on TV One, Word Network and Streamingfaith.com, launching the Empowerment Academy, and speaking before crowds as far away as Paris and the many countries of Africa, Bryant is all about advancing the Kingdom of God. Living and preaching by a very simplistic mantra, “Keeping It Real,” Bryant’s contagious charismatic style and “tell it like it is” delivery has managed to catch and sustain the attention of the hip-hop generation. He has provided an atmosphere where this crowd— which he says feels forgotten by the church—can feel comfortable in Christ. He’s been extremely innovative at making the church and the word of God accessible for young people by pouring a daily word into the ears of thousands of listeners via 92Q Jams—Baltimore’s No. 1 hip-hop and R&B station—blog entries on MySpace and leading youth councils and college chapters across the world. Bryant never could’ve imagined that he would be where he is today—one of the most influential preachers in the world—but he said of his success, still awed by it all, that “When you’re in the will of God for your life, there is nothing that could stop that.”

Dr. Jayfus T. Doswell, Ph.D. Age: 34 School: Oberlin College; Howard University; George Mason University Career: Founder, president, and CEO of Juxtopia, LLC.

Aiming to improve human life, Dr. Jayfus T. Doswell, Ph.D. brings forth state-of-the-art technology to enhance the way people live. Dr. Doswell is the founder, president, and chief executive officer of Juxtopia, LLC, a biomedical and information technology (BIO-IT) company that credits itself on being an innovative leader in the design and development of human performance products and services. Their mission is to improve human performance with human adaptive science and technology. As a multidisciplinary scientist, mentor, and entrepreneur, the native Baltimorean has over ten years of hands-on experience in information technology development and business leadership. Dr. Doswell’s extensive research has been published around the world. He has a vast knowledge of technical and business related topics that includes public health informatics, telehealth, and e-learning to entrepreneurship. Currently Dr. Doswell and Juxtopia are working on a mobile augmented reality system for automotive manufacturing and maintenance as well as improving human performance. Besides his duties at Juxtopia, Dr. Doswell is an active member of the American Telemedicine Society (ATA), Institute of Electrical and Electronics Engineers (IEEE), National Society of Black Engineers (NSBE), and Society for Applied Learning and Technology (SALT).

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nderstanding the need for more affordable housing in Baltimore and the vision to get it done, Al Davis and his business A&M Services, LLC are the small realty company making big moves in the community to make it easy for everyone to have a place they can call home. Davis is the owner of A&M Services, LLC, a realty company that specializes in finding the homes that need the most work and will be a vital asset to the communities of Baltimore. Buying and selling houses and apartments is Davis’ life. It isn’t a day that goes by that he is not entrenched in his work looking for the best properties to renovate and resell. For the past ten years, Davis has been in the realty game providing affordable housing for lower income individuals that would otherwise spend their nights renting or on the street. “We do good business, we’re honest, ethical, and work hard, that’s how we built our business,” said Davis. Extremely hardworking and adamant about his field, Davis works many long hours to help out the people of Baltimore. Starting his business in 1998, he would look at 60 properties a week and sometimes only find one he could use. Coming across drug dealers with many of the buildings being stash houses, Davis would not be deterred. “It would get discouraging. In the summer it would be a 100 degrees and I would be going into boarded up houses where there would be pigeons, rats, everything running across your feet, just to see a house to see how much work needs to be done and if it is a house I would want to try to buy… so everyone doesn’t have the heart

to go into these vacant buildings,” said Davis. With a client base of about 400 people, Davis is no stranger to the workings of the system and the dedication it takes to run a business. Working with many rental programs such as HABC (Housing Authority), Day Spring Program and Baltimore Homeless Services, Inc., Davis knows no bounds to satisfying the need for housing in Baltimore. Learning early that “you always have to surround yourself with trustworthy people,” Davis not only does a vital service for many of the under funded families in Baltimore, but he also provides jobs for young people trying to get into the realty business and have a serious commitment to the field. “I get a kick out of doing that. Little guys that come up to me, and if they are serious, motivated, really want to work, and really want to make money I’ll show them how to do it,” said Davis. Currently Davis is overseeing the process of a 20-acre land project in Charlotte, N.C., that will spawn 33 houses for families to live in as well as maintaining about seven house and apartment units in Baltimore for low-income families. His future goals are to expand his involvement with many of the home-

less, HIV/AIDS outreach, and general rental programs that he is already involved in. “We’re still a small business, but we’ve just been blessed enough to get good deals on the properties and I learned a lot on the way,” said Davis.

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Age: 40 High School: H.G. Woodson/Forestville High School College: North Carolina A&T Business: A&M Services, LLC

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A publication of the Afro-American Newspapers

2/1/07 7:42:47 PM

Al Davis

Age: 40 High School: H.G. Woodson/Forestville High School College: North Carolina A&T Business: A&M Services, LLC

EXPERIENCE • COMMITMENT • RESULTS Let OUR Team Work For You!

www.DeLeaverAndAssociates.com

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2/1/07 7:42:47 PM

Cheriss May

David Miller

Age: 37 Age: 35 Education: University of Baltimore; Education: St. Teresa’s Academy in Kansas City, Mo.; Howard University Vocation: graphic designer at USA Today, adjunct professor of graphic design at Howard Goucher College Profession: Co-Founder and CEO, University, photographer, clothing designer and entrepreneur The Urban Leadership Institute Cheriss May should have been born with four hands—at least then she could more David C. Miller is the co-founder comfortably juggle her four jobs. Even with two hands, however, this young Kansas City, Mo., transplant who has embraced Washington, D.C., as her home is competently doing and chief executive officer of the Urban Leadership Institute in her “thang.” Baltimore City. May worked her way up as a graphic designer through the Jackson Sun in Tennessee, The organization, established in The Courier Post and Stars and Stripes in New Jersey, The Washington Post and USA Today, and now she is parlaying her designing skills into Unified Soul, an online clothing 1999, is a social enterprise that focuses on positive youth development strategies. company. Although clothes don’t make a man, May said she wanted to create a line of The organization provides strategic planclothing that sent positive messages to youth. “I’ve seen too many youth wearing clothing bearing misogynistic and negative messages. ning, professional development and crisis management services. People judge us by what we wear and unconsciously Miller is a graduate of the University of Baltimore and earned his master’s degree in those messages filter in, so I wanted to give them education from Goucher College. something with a positive message that is still The former educator-turned-CEO said part of the reason for forming ULI was stylish,” she said. because he and fellow teacher and ULI co-founding partner LaMarr Shields in the words Unlike Hue Love, a clothing company of Fannie Lou Hamner had become “sick and tired of being sick and tired” of the vioMay started in September 2005 with two lence surrounding young African-American males in their midst. other women that addressed issues of color “We decided to start a nontraditional company to address major challenges facing prejudice among people of color, Unified African-American males,” says Miller, who is also founder of the Dare to Be King (DBK) Soul promotes a message of cross-cultural project — a community-based intervention which addresses out-control-emotions such unity. as anger. “We are so prejudiced against each “There has been an alarming dropout rate, murder rate and HIV rate,” Miller conother, which doesn’t help any of us,” May tinued. “We realized most city agencies had not been prepared or equipped to deal with said. these issues.” Currently, Unified Soul offers a variety The organization also sponsors the Dare to be Queen project —a holistic and comof T-shirt designs for men, women and chilprehensive curriculum for girls of all races, educational and socioeconomic levels. dren of all ages and cultural backgrounds. May An urban teaching academy will be launched in September 2007 because, as Miller said she intends to expand the line and to start an puts it, “school districts are not meeting the needs of these kids. There’s no outrage affiliated youth entrepreneurship program. among school officials, politicians and law enforcement officials,” when these kids get off Photo by illeyedigital.com track.

Farajii Muhammad

Age: 27 Education: Baltimore School for the Arts; Towson State University Vocation: Radio host and youth advocate

Farajii Muhammad has long felt the need to give a voice to the youth of Baltimore City and he is doing so as the host of “Listen Up,” a “solutionsoriented” talk show on WEAA 88.9 FM. “’Listen Up” is a platform for young people and it gives the city a chance to hear what’s on the minds of young people. “The negative impressions of Black youth are gained from music videos and other mainstream media, and I wanted to change that perception by showing that there are intelligent young people in this city,” he said. Though trained in theater, Farajii said he felt called to being an advocate for his community. “I saw the plight of Black people as deadly serious, so I couldn’t just be comfortable with doing something to achieve a level of excellence while leaving my people behind,” he said. Even now, he doesn’t subscribe to the “one-man-show” concept, which he says, has “stunted” Black growth. This is why he and wife Tamara founded New Light Leadership Coalition in 1999 to groom young leaders. Now in its eighth year, the non-profit hosts a leadership conference every November and leadership seminars for two weeks each summer, which teaches participants the rudiments of leadership and requires them to complete community service projects, which are sometimes developed through the monetary patronage of Youth as Resources. “I’m striving to be a movement architect—putting out ideas and seeing people building themselves.”

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A publication of the Afro-American Newspapers

2/1/07 7:43:32 PM

Jonathan Nelson

Age: 32 School: Morgan State Univeristy Profession: Singer/Songwriter/ Composer

Having won the distinguished Song of the Year Award for 2006 at the Stellar Gospel Music Awards, an award equivalent to the secular world’s Grammy, at such a primitive stage in his career, is a sign that singer, songwriter, composer, and musician Jonathan Nelson is destined for even greater things ahead. A graduate of Morgan State University—where he majored in music and traveled with the renowned MSU Choir—Nelson, along with his own chorale, Promise, now shares stages with some of gospel music’s greats like Kurt Carr, Kim Burrell and Donald Lawrence. Nelson’s blossoming resume includes the penning of “The Struggle Is Over,” which ranked 12 weeks on the R&R Gospel charts, “Manifest,” which was released on T.D. Jakes and The Potter’s House Choir’s award-winning CD, “A Wing And Prayer” and the release of Jonathan Nelson and Promise’s first CD, “Everything You Are.” Despite his high-volumed success, Nelson is truly dedicated to his church home, Empowerment Temple, where he serves as the director of music and fine arts and worship leader. In the future, Nelson wants to create an “institute that would serve as a well of knowledge for songwriting Jonathan Nelson style.” He says of his life, “I feel like this [doing gospel music] is why I was created…like this is what I’m supposed to do.

Jabari Nture

Age: 31 School: Lake Clifton High School Profession: Chairman of the Solvivaz Nation, Master Barber, Lecturer

For the past 11 years, Jabari Nture, chairman of the Solvivaz Nation, has been committed to socially, economically, and spiritually empowering the Black community. Following the legacy of the infamous Black Panther Party, minus the extreme militancy, the Solvivaz Nation promotes Black Power. Power to defeat poverty, violence, and oppression. Power to combat HIV/AIDS. Power to mend dismantled families. Power to exercise the right to freedom. Of course, true freedom is knowledge. The Nation frequently tours the Mid-Atlantic region with a lecture series featuring speakers like Bro. Jabari, himself, Dick Gregory, author, Dr. Lliala Africka, and a host of other educators, activists and social and political leaders as strategy to transmit knowledge to masses of African Americans. This is a charge to move people to, not only take an interest in bettering themselves, but also to evoke change in the communities they represent. Under Nture’s leadership, the Solvivaz Nation has built a multitude of thriving small businesses ranging from the Realty Speaks bookstore, Magazine and production company to Conscious Heads Beauty Salon and Barbershop to Food For Thought Catering— all of which are Black owned and run. This blossoming enterprise has provided employment and hope for youth that might otherwise spend their time on the streets.

Kimberly Oliver

Age: 28 Education: Hampton University Profession: Teacher Kimberly Oliver of Silver Spring, Md., won national recognition in April 2006 as National Teacher of the Year. She traveled to the nation’s capital, where she was lauded during a ceremony in her honor, by President George W. Bush. Oliver, a kindergarten teacher at Broad Acres Elementary School in Montgomery County, is the first Maryland teacher to receive the national award and the state’s first finalist in the competition since 1992. The 28 year-old Wilmington, Del., native is the 56th National Teacher of the Year. “Raising student achievement for disadvantaged students is an issue that is special to me,” Oliver has said of her latest accomplishment. “A quality teacher can outweigh the effects of race, poverty, and language barriers. Our most disadvantaged students deserve our most accomplished teachers.” The Teacher of the Year program recognizes and honors outstanding elementary, middle and high school faculty who have exemplified excellence in classroom instruction. They have also been recognized as outstanding education leaders in their respective schools and communities. Oliver, who earned her bachelor’s degree at Hampton University, has a master’s degree in elementary education. She taught at Broad Acres for six years, prior to taking a leave of absence for the 2006-07 academic year. According to a National Teacher of the Year fact sheet, Broad Acres is Montgomery County’s highest poverty school, a place where 90 percent of the children qualify for federally-subsidized meals, and about 75 percent have parents who do not speak English at home. Oliver was named at The National Education Association Foundation’s 12th annual Salute to Excellence in Education Gala on Feb. 8 in Washington, D.C. Among the prizes she received in the competition were a new Honda Accord Hybrid worth $25,000 and $5,000 cash.

A publication of the Afro-American Newspapers

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Professional, poised, and well-put together By Tiffany Ginyard Add a dash of education and a little bit of sass to Angelou’s repertoire and watch Dr. Yvette Rooks emerge— the evolution of the phenomenal woman. After finishing medical school at the State University of New York at Albany, Dr. Rooks left for Baltimore in search for a change of scenery and a place to plant her feet in the medical profession. Now, at 38, not only are her feet firmly planted at the University of Maryland—where she started her residency 15 years ago—she’s sprouting all of

over the place. A residency director and family care physician at University of Maryland primarily, Rooks also lends her expertise to the sports medicine department at the University of Maryland College Park where she makes up one third of —what’s presumably—the nation’s first allBlack sports medicine team. Working in sports medicine brings balance to her medical career. A star athlete in her own right—having played volleyball in high school, college, and for the USVBA—Rooks has more to offer than just cut and dry medical advice. “The guys on the football team come and talk to me about anything and everything and my women on the hockey team do the same thing,” said Rooks. Every Thursday, for the past eleven years, Rooks is in the Athletics department at College Park providing quality care for all sports teams. “It could be anything from a medical problem to a rash, a cold to chest pain to ‘I think I just broke my leg,’” the bubbling ball of energy said of her all encompassing job there, which also includes nutrition counseling and exercise prescription. For Busy Bee, M.D., there is never a dull moment. In addition to seeing her

primary care patients at the beginning of the week, caring for all the athletic teams on Thursdays, attending every home football game, rotating with her partners for away games, traveling with the basketball teams during post season, running her own sports medicine clinic back in Maryland on Fridays and, as if there if there isn’t anything else she doesn’t do, she’s a mother—that picks her daughter up from the school bus stop every day she’s in town. “Being a mom is sometimes challenging with the game schedules, but I have a big support system and my daughter loves sports and appreciates what I do,” said Rooks. She’s been a part of Maryland athletics since she was born. With Brenda Freese and the women’s basketball team, she’s like an additional player.” Rooks acknowledges her strong spirituality and connection to God as the source that keeps her going at it full force, day after day. “My plate is full, but it’s fun,” Rooks resigns. And when the stethoscope is unleashed, appointment book closed, and the games are all over, Rooks still finds some time for herself—weight lifting, reading and dancing. Phenomenal women.

I say

It’s the fire in my eyes And the flash of my teeth The swing in my waist And the joy in my feet.

I’m a woman Phenomenally

Dr. Yvette Rooks

Age: 38 Education: State University of New York at Albany Profession: Medicine

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Phenomenal woman

That’s me. — Maya Angelou

A publication of the Afro-American Newspapers

2/1/07 7:44:26 PM

Shawn Peterson

Want the

Change

Age: 32 High School: St. Francis Academy Company: Milton’s Grill

Combining good food and a warming atmosphere, Shawn Peterson is making giant leaps in the food industry with his restaurant Milton’s Grill. Located in the heart of downtown Baltimore at 336 N. Charles St., Milton’s grill brings a much needed feel to the often serious tone of the business district. With 15 years under his belt in the restaurant business, Peterson has a vision of bringing affordable prices and a casual setting to an area that many view as high class. “We want people to come down have a great meal and not feel like they are getting robbed in the process.” Peterson, along with his service manager Kris Gobeil, provides a calm and relaxing environment where everybody knows your name and the food is excellent. The walls are draped in artwork, the employees are friendly all while smooth jazz plays in the background. Milton’s Grill’s current specials include $1 an oz. for prime rib, $1 a bone for ribs, and during their happy hour domestic beers are $2 a bottle, $3.50 house wine, $3 draft beer, and $2 rail. So whether you are coming for lunch or a quick drink after work, Milton’s grill is definitely the place to go and enjoy your meal.

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Morgan is a place where you can follow your passions. Explore new interests. And expand your world. It’s a place where you can lay the groundwork for your dreams. Then, gain the skills to make them come true.

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Kwame Rich

Age: 35 Education: Baltmore City College High School; Messiah College (Pennsylvania) Profession: Co-Founder, The Regeneration Project

Roddrick Stokes

Age: 36 Education: Northern High School; Coppin State University; University of Baltimore Profession: Co-Founder, The Regeneration Project

Stokes is a graduate of Northern High School in Baltimore City and Kwame Rich operates with his 36-year old moved on the attain a bachelor’s degree in criminal justice from Coppin State partner, Roddrick Stokes, the Regeneration University. Project — a community-based entity that proStokes said the The Regeneration Project has worked with thousands of vides intervention services for disadvantaged chilfamilies in the Baltimore City area. dren ages seven to 18. “We have encountered families that have not asked to be helped despite what Supported with funding through the state of it looks like on the surface. We’ve educated many of the professionals who’ve Maryland’s Medical Assistance Program, the Project worked with the families so that they could see that these families have vallaunched in September 2003. ues,” said Stokes. “When we began, the state responded by forming a ser“It’s been very enjoyable. The partnership Kwame and I have has been spirituvice model called the Systems Reform Initiative,” said Rich. ally rewarding.” “We got our start contracting under that initiative, providing intervention services to keep kids from negative involvement in the community. We gave them family support and other kinds of support to help them develop in a positive way.” Rich added that if it was not for intervention, many kids in the program would probably be incarcerated or in residential treatment centers. Rich’s organization later began working with Baltimore Public Schools through a school-based wrap-around module within the classroom setting. Working with youth on a one-on-one basis, the Project assists young people managing their behavior — and their lives. “Now we have a psychology rehabilitation program where kids with mental health disorders get support to become successful in their daily lives,” said Rich. “With problems like Attention Deficit Disorder (ADD) that impacts their social interaction. We’re also getting them involved in other community resources like recreation facilities.” The Project also helps families with a variety of social and economic issues, with illiteracy and unemployment being among them. Rich said his program engages both child and family, explaining that “if a mother comes in with employment issues, we try to work with her to make her employable.” Overall, “our services are based on establishing a relationship with children and their families.”

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Baltimore County: 11221 Dolfield Rd. Owings Mills Md. 21117, 410-581-1802

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A publication of the Afro-American Newspapers

2/1/07 7:45:11 PM

Nolan V. Rollins

Age: 34 Schools: Mt. Hebron High School; Virginia State University; University of Baltimore; Florida Coastal School of Law Profession: Vice President, Economic and Community Development, Greater Baltimore Urban League

An 8th grade counselor told him his only sure route to success was to join the army. Never serving a day there, Nolan V. Rollins, is one of the commanding officers of the nation’s largest and oldest community based organization — the National Urban League — an army devoted to the social and economic empowerment of AfricanAmerican people. As Vice President of the Economic and Community Development division of the Greater Baltimore Urban League, Rollins is responsible for overseeing all of its the economic and community development strategies which includes directing, planning and implementing housing and commercial realty related programs within the community. The dawn of Rollins’ career at the Urban League began with volunteering with the National Urban League Young Professionals’ executive board of which he now serves as president. Rollins’ leadership of this division spans over 67 chapters nationwide. In this role he has, and continues to, help youths attain GEDs and job training, guides and consults minority businesses and assists with first-time homeownership. He says of his success, “If people walk away from the table saying, ‘this guy gave everything he could to help someone else,’ that would be the ultimate compliment to me, my life, and the way that I’ve actually lived.”

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Roland Selby

Age: 38 High School: Baltimore Polytechnic Institute; Morgan State University Accounting, BS Profession: Financial Advisor, Ameriprise Financial With a passion for helping people and an interest for numbers, Roland Selby is using his gifts and doing what he loves best. As a financial planner, Selby feels a sense of purpose by helping people maintain their financial way of life. “I enjoy helping people, and I enjoy the ability to look at the end of the day and see the fruit of my labor.” Utilizing math, technology and creativity, Selby identifies various financial situations and finds solutions to these problems. An Ameriprise financial advisor, Selby is very analytical. He loves to “number crunch.” Believing that many of the problems and stress in life stem for financial hardships, Selby thrives on helping out his clients and providing ease in their lives. At one point, Selby was pursuing a master’s of divinity at Howard University focusing on pastoral care as a way of adding more depth to the service that he does for people. Selby is a member of Kappa Alpha Psi Fraternity, Inc., and serves as the treasurer for the Kappa Alpha Psi Foundation of Metropolitan Baltimore. His future goals are to establish a program to teach the foundations for financial success to high school and college students.

A publication of the Afro-American Newspapers

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Shopping destination:

Lettie Gooch By Alafaka Opuiyo

Shopping at the mall can be a drag. You have to worry about jammed packed parking lots and crowed stores. Often, you don’t get the individualized attention that you need to make the best purchase. And when you while buy something, you run the risk of seeing it on someone else. Simply horrifying! So what do you do to alleviate all that? Try visiting one of Washington D.C.’s premiere boutiques, Lettie Gooch. Named after the owner’s industrious grandmother, Lettie Gooch is more than a shopping destination, it’s an experience. When you walk into this quaint shop, you are welcomed by the radiance of the metallic copper ceiling and golden walls. The track lightening offsets the well displayed inventory including designer jeans, dresses, shoes, handbags and accessories. Teresa Watts, owner of Lettie Gooch, described the environment as inviting. Continued on page 21

Photos by Danita Delany

Located in the popularly known “U Street Corridor” of Washington, D.C., Lettie Gooch is a boutique that brings its own “flava” to the area.

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A publication of the Afro-American Newspapers

2/1/07 8:20:45 PM

Teresa Watts Age: Thirty-something School: N/A Profession: Owner, Lettie Gooch Boutique

Photo by Alafaka Opuiyo

A publication of the Afro-American Newspapers

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Lettie Gooch: funky, feminine and refined

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A publication of the Afro-American Newspapers

2/1/07 7:46:23 PM

Lettie Gooch Continued from 18

“It’s like walking into your home or personal closet,” Watts said. “Somewhere you can not just shop, but where you can hang out and not feel pressured to buy something.” Every item in this “closet” is purchased by Watts. She said she makes sure the fabrics feel good and are appealing to the eye. Along with her small staff, Watts makes a visit to Lettie Gooch memorable. She encourages her customers to go outside of their fashion comfort zone and try new things. To reinforce this, motivational quotes are pasted on the walls in the dressing rooms. You are put at ease

about making a fashion change. Watts suggested that there is not need to change your complete wardrobe. You can start small and transition accordingly. “Start with bold pieces of accessories,” Watts said. “Something that you are drawn to.” While making the change, a Lettie Gooch customer has a smorgasbord of designers to choose from including, singer Beyonce’s high-end clothing line, House of Dereon, Ranahan Jeans, Goka Shoes, as well as local designers. . So who is a Lettie customer? According to Watts, it can be summed up in three words. “A Lettie Gooch customer is feminine, funky and refined,” Watts said. Watts said her clientele varies in age, but generally are between 25 and 45. And not to worry, to accommodate the various body types, Watts carries sizes 0-14. Lettie Gooch does not offer layaway, but the boutique’s prices are comparative to retail stores in the mall. For a gift idea, the boutique also offers gift certificates.

A publication of the Afro-American Newspapers

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With an eye-catching assortment of fashion, Lettie Gooch is located in “U Street Corridor.” It opened its doors in March 2006 and conveniently sits in the middle of a third block radius known as “Little Ethiopia.” This area of the District is rich in culture and overflows with history. Once known as “Black Broadway,” this region of the city continues to exude “flava” and pizzazz. And Watts said she is thrilled to be apart of that. “It is blessing to be apart of that continuing legacy,” Watt said. Famous Black entrepreneur and activist, Madam C. J. Walker was apart of

Filled with a collage of funky clothes and accessories, Lettie Gooch is definitely a boutique with a “style of its own.”

that legacy. According to Watts, the building that houses her shop was once one of Walker’s beauty schools. Lettie Gooch is located on 1911 Ninth Street, NW, Washington, D.C. The shop is open from Tuesday-Saturday from 12pm-7pm and Sunday from 12pm-5pm. For more information call 202-332-4242 or log on to lettiegooch.com.

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calendar of events

Black History Month Frederick Douglass - Isaac Myers Maritime Park Museum 1417 Thames Street, 410-685-0295 X2 February is Teacher Appreciation Month at the Douglass-Myers Museum. All Maryland State Educators welcomed with free admission. Feb. 21 11a.m. – 12:30p.m. First Floor Gallery The U.S. Postal Service’s official unveiling of the 2007 African American History Month Postage Stamp honoring music legend Ella Fitzgerald. Fitzgerald will be the 30th honoree in the Postal Service’s Black Heritage series. The Postal Service Glee Club and the Frederick Douglas High School Jazz Ensemble will provide music during the ceremony. Light refreshments will be served. Feb. 24 and 25 10a.m. – 4p.m. Historic Walk through Fell’s Point and Galleries Join the nationally recognized Volksmarch Walkers as they journey through Fell’s Point noting specific places associated with the AfricanAmerican historic experience. The Frederick Douglass-Isaac Myers Maritime Park will be included in the tour route. All participants will receive a reduced admission price of $2.50.

Feb. 28 12 noon Founders Room Gallery Be a part of the State of Maryland’s 7th Annual Commemoration of Harriet Ross Tubman Remembrance Day. Join the African American Tourism Council of MD, Baltimore Black Heritage Tours Founder and Director, Louis Fields and Douglass-Myers Museum Director, Dr. Dianne Swann-Wright, to launch the official Maryland state sponsored commemoration. The 2007 Harriet Tubman Lifetime Achievement Award Winner will be announced. Find out about events taking place across the state as Tubman, a champion of the Underground Railroad Movement, is recognized. The Douglass-Myers Maritime Park honors Frederick Douglass, Isaac Myers, and other local African-American leaders of the past, present, and future who have overcome adversity to reach their full potential and empower others. The centerpiece of the facility is the recreation of the first black-owned marine railway and shipyard in the U.S., the Chesapeake Marine Railway and Dry Dock Company, founded by Isaac Myers in Baltimore in 1866 with 14 fellow entrepreneurs, many of whom attended Bethel and Sharp Street AME Churches. Douglass was a key advisor to Myers and the other founders of the Chesapeake

Marine Railway and Dry Dock Company. Great Blacks in Wax Museum 1601 E. North Avenue 410-563-3404 Feb. 17th and 24th Noon Children’s Storytelling Enjoy listening to history come to life with every page turn. Dress as your favorite book character and get in for only $1. Ages 5 - 11 Free with museum admission 3 p.m. Movie Night Hey, kids! Nothing to do after school? Come catch a movie with us! Join us every day after school during the month of February for films featuring African Americans in theater. You won’t want to miss this! Don’t forget to stop by our snack bar. $5.00 admission. Ages 10 and under must be accompanied by parent or guardian. Feb. 17th and 24th Extended Tours All aboard!! Come ride the Freedom Train! Take an extended tour of The National Great Blacks In Wax Museum, Frederick Douglass’ home,

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A publication of the Afro-American Newspapers

2/1/07 8:22:18 PM

and Orchard Street Church. Come see the actual Underground Railroad and hear the accounts of Harriet Tubman. Bring the whole family and make a day of it. Buses will leave at noon. Admission: $39.95 per person Feb. 23rd 6:00pm Jazz Night Eat…drink…mingle…and enjoy live jazz. Jazz Night at The National Great Blacks In Wax Museum will feature Andrew Best and Friends as the artists for the evening. Call 410.563.7809 x111 for more information and tickets. Advanced ticket purchase required $25 members/$30 non-members National Aquarium in Baltimore 501 E. Pratt Street 410-576-3800

stories about the origin of Black History Month as well as several other witty, humorous, and heart warming stories. Feb. 23 Congressman Elijah Cummings, who represents Maryland’s 7th District, will host a forum. A gospel dance group will demonstrate their craft. Reginald F. Lewis Museum 830 E. Pratt Street 443-263-1800

Custom-tailored clothing for all occasions Ready-to-Wear Garments African and Western Fabrics Alterations and Embroidery Hand-Made Jewelry and more…

Feb. 17 2:30 p.m. Create self-portraits with artist-in-residence Arvie Smith in a free family workshop, 1 and

(202) 726-2633 • 4803 Georgia Ave, NW, Washington, DC

March 1 5-8 p.m. Spotlight on Pennsylvania Avenue in the 1920s with the Eubie Black Legacy Band and others.

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Feb. 16 Goree Dance Company, led by executive director Willa Walker and artistic director Babacar N’Diaye of the National Dance Company of Senegal, the Goree Dancers are a must-experience performance for all ages.

March 14 Noon Brown Bag Lunch Conversation with Artist Sam Christian Holmes.

Bunjo Butler, “The West Baltimore African Talkin’ Drum,” uses stories, songs, music and audience participation to celebrate the contributions of African Americans to American culture. The audience will gain insight as Bunjo tells

March 17 2 p.m. Film: Frederick Douglass: When the Lion Wrote History (1994) at Maryland Institute College of Art, 1300 Mount Royal Avenue.

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