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Volume 121 No. 40
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May 11, 2013 - May 11, 2013, The Afro-American
MAY 11, 2013 - MAY 17, 2013
On Mother’s Day, a Grandmother Celebrates a New Relationship
By Andrea Crews Special to the AFRO
Charles Ramsey Photo courtesy Cleveland Call and Post
‘Dead Giveaway’ By Alexis Taylor Special to the AFRO
Charles Ramsey never imagined he’d be thrust into the national spotlight from the yard of his Cleveland home much less called “hero” for, of all things, rescuing three women from who’d been kidnapped. However, that is exactly what happened on May 6. “I heard screaming. I was eating my McDonald’s. I went outside and saw this girl going nuts trying to get out of her house,” Ramsey told ABC News affiliate WEWS. Clad in a plain white tee and flashing a less than perfect smile, Ramsey explained how he rescued Amanda Berry, 27, Continued on A4
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The sweetest joy of my life has been getting to know my grandmother. I never knew her well growing up. Grandma Evelyn lived in Greensboro, N.C., so I only saw her on occasional visits. There were few chances to hug her, sit with her or laugh with her. I learned from my limited contact with her that she was a woman who did not smile often, had the gnarled hands of someone who worked hard, had a commanding bearing and always kept her home pristine from the baseboards to the ceiling. I learned around Thanksgiving that she was Continued on A3
Evelyn Crews admires a photo of herself and her late husband.
Black Banks Face Challenges By Zenitha Prince Special to the AFRO The once-towering stature of the Black bank has diminished. After almost 125 years of serving the underserved, the Black banking community has been brought low by a shrinking clientele, questions of relevance, competition from big banks and the fluctuating fortunes of its traditional client base—churches, small businesses and lower- and middle-income Blacks, who have borne the brunt of the economic recession. “The state of Black banks is bleak,” said Paul O’Connor, founder of Angkor Strategic Advisors, a Chicago-based investment firm that works with Black banks, speaking about conditions within the minority banking community in that city. In the past few years, several Black-owned banks, including the
$2 billion-asset ShoreBank, one of the most active lenders on Chicago’s South Side, Covenant Bank and Highland Community Bank have closed or been absorbed into another institution.
barren soil of segregation. Beginning in 1888 with the Capital Savings Bank in Washington, D.C., these institutions provided loans for homes, small businesses, expanding churches and more, services that
Photo by Andrea Crews
still, when everyone else turns them down, Black banks are still there as the last resort—though we wish we were there first.” With integration, and the implementation of laws such as the 1977 Community Reinvestment Act, which requires depository institutions to lend in the less-advantaged portions of the communities in which they operate, Black banks faced stiff competition from major lending institutions. And later, as these banks consolidated into financial behemoths, the smaller community banks were inched out even more. “After integration, one of the most toxic side effects is that we started to run and spend our money elsewhere,” Grant said. “We’re the Continued on A3
“The number of Black banks has been steadily dwindling since the 1960s. As of March 2011, the FDIC counted 28 Black-owned banks in the United States, down from 54 in 1994.” And the city’s statistics mirror those nationwide. The number of Black banks has been steadily dwindling since the 1960s. As of March 2011, the FDIC counted 28 Black-owned banks in the United States, down from 54 in 1994. And there are several others teetering on the brink of extinction. Black banks grew out of the
majority banks refused to provide to African Americans. “Black banks played a major role in helping to develop Black communities,” said Michael Grant, president of the National Bankers Association, which has represented the interests of Black banks for the past 86 years. “These banks were there for the community then and
Judge Clayton Greene Jr., the Other Mfume Named Black Judge on Md.’s Highest Court Chairman of Morgan and lawyers. It would be hard to imagine a person more qualified than Greene,” Gibson When Maryland Court of Appeals Chief said about the possibility that Gov. Martin Judge Robert M. Bell retires on July 6, he will O’Malley might nominate Greene to fill the leave one other Black judge at the upper levels chief judicial vacancy. of the state’s judiciary-Born in Glen Burnie, Judge Clayton Greene Jr. Greene attended Pasadena, Greene was appointed Md. public schools. to the appellate court by He earned both his then-Gov. Robert Ehrlich in undergraduate and law 2004. Greene, like Bell, has degrees from the University played an instrumental role of Maryland before in administering the state’s becoming an assistant courts. public defender in 1977. “He’s served with For 10 years, Greene distinction at every level of represented clients in Anne the court system, very much Arundel County. like Judge Bell,” said Larry In a historic move in Gibson, a law professor at 1988, Greene became the the University of Maryland first Black judge appointed School of Law. to the District Court of He said that Greene Maryland in Anne Arundel has displayed leadership County. as an administrative judge, Greene’s law career helping to ensure the spans nearly 40 years. upkeep of courthouse During that period he has Courtesy Photo buildings, managing court served as a trial judge Judge Clayton Greene Jr. case flow, assigning judges and administrative judge to courts and working as a liaison between until being elevated to the Circuit Court for counsel and judges. Anne Arundel County in 1995 as its first “He has worked as an administrative judge, African American judge. He also served as which is well-respected among both judges Continued on A4 AFRO Staff Writer
Regents Board By Krishana Davis AFRO Staff Writer Former Maryland congressman and NAACP president Kweisi Mfume has been named chairman of the Morgan State University Board of Regents. His term will begin July 1, the university announced. Mfume was selected at a meeting of the board on May 7 by a 14 to 0 vote. One member abstained. The chairmanship was vacated in February 2013 after thenchairman Dallas R. Evans was ousted. Evans’ dismissal came after a board rift following Evans’ push for the dismissal of MSU President David Wilson. “This is a great opportunity to help in the governance of a great university,” Mfume told the
Copyright © 2013 by the Afro-American Company
Kweisi Mfume AFRO. “I thank the members of the board for their vote of confidence and I look forward to serving with President Dr. David Wilson.” Along with tapping Mfume as the new chairman, the board voted to approve a new one-year contract for Wilson, which Continued on A4
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The Afro-American, May 11, 2013 - May 17, 2013
NATION & WORLD
Death Penalty Favored for Boston Bomber—But Not Among Blacks An overwhelming majority of Americans—but African Americans to a lesser degree—support the death penalty for the suspect in the Boston Marathon bombings should he be convicted, according to a recent national poll. Seventy percent of those surveyed in the Washington PostABC News poll support capital punishment for Dzhokhar Tsarnaev. Federal prosecutors indicted the 19-year-old on capital charges of using a weapon of mass destruction and malicious destruction of property in the bombings that killed three and injured almost 200 persons. Republican lawmakers wanted Tsarnaev, an American
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citizen, to be deemed an “enemy combatant” so he could be questioned at length without being read his Miranda rights before being released to the federal judicial system. Tsarnaev’s defense attorneys include not only public defenders but also Judith Clarke, a renowned lawyer in death penalty Wikimedia Commons cases, according to news Dzhokhar Tsarnaev reports. Her clients have included Jared Loughner, who killed six people in the 2011 supermarket shooting in Tuscon, Ariz. that wounded thenRep. Gabrielle Giffords (D); and Theodore J. Kaczynski, the Unabomber. According to the Washington-ABC News poll, however, 74 percent of Americans seemed to back the Obama administration’s decision to try Tsarnaev in federal courts rather than a military tribunal. That support was mostly consistent across political and racial lines. Backing for Tsarnaev’s execution was also mostly comparable across party lines, although Democrats were the least likely to support the measure. Republicans (84 percent) were most supportive of the death penalty, followed by Independents (69 percent) and Democrats (64 percent). But, there were wider racial gaps on support for the death penalty, reflecting ideological divisions that exist in the general public. While three-quarters of White respondents supported the death penalty for Tsarnaev, only a little over half of African Americans support execution and 43 percent opposed it. And Hispanics were also less likely to support the death penalty for Tsarnaev; 62 percent supported the punishment and 35 percent opposed.
Amid Chart-Topping Sales, Fantasia Loses Home to Foreclosure Fantasia Barrino is proving again why she is an “American Idol,” as her fourth and newest album, “Side Effects of You” took the No. 2 slot on the Billboard 200 chart in the first week of May. But even amid her professional triumph, the soulful singer suffered a personal defeat when she was forced to give up her five-bedroom North Carolina Wikimedia Commons mansion. Fantasia Barrino According to documents obtained by TMZ, Barrino avoided foreclosure by signing over her house to a bank in February. The singer has faced an ongoing battle with her home since
2008, when she was accused of defaulting on a $58,000 loan from Florida-based company Broward Energy Management. The 6,500-square-foot house, which was purchased for $1.3 million, was almost auctioned off in 2009 before the foreclosure was stopped at the last minute. And last April, she put the house up for sale at an asking price of $800,000—but no one bit. In a 2010 CNN interview to promote her VH1 reality series, “Fantasia For Real,” the star addressed the foreclosure rumors, including talk that “Idol” creator Simon Cowell had bailed her out. “The show will set the record straight: I am still in my house, it wasn’t a foreclosure and no, Simon Cowell did not help me pay any of my bills, though I thought that story was cute,” she said. “At the time I had a lot of different lawsuits, people just trying to come after me and for awhile I went without management. I did have a lawyer, but I guess, I don’t know if it was a money situation or the lawyer just had too much on his hands, I don’t know, but he wasn’t showing up for court.” She later added, “The courts put both of my homes up for auction, so there was no foreclosure. It wasn’t that we weren’t paying the bills or didn’t have money. I guess when people heard I was doing “The Color Purple” [on Broadway] they thought I had Color Purple/Oprah Winfrey money.” Former CBC Chair Watt Nominated to Head Federal Housing Finance Agency President Obama has nominated former Congressional Black Caucus (CBC) Chair Mel Watt to head the Federal Housing Finance Agency (FHFA), which regulates governmentbacked mortgage giants Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac. CBC Chair Marcia Fudge (D-Ohio) had earlier suggested Watt as a choice for Secretary of Commerce and was one of several critics who Wikimedia Commons had questioned the homogeneity Mel Watt of the president’s cabinet, but praised Obama for his choice of Watt. “I congratulate President Obama and his Administration for making such an outstanding choice…. Rep. Watt will be the transformational leader the FHFA needs to make sure this country stays on the path to full economic recovery,” she said in a statement. In making his announcement on May 1, President Obama said Watt is the right leader to build on successes and continue the work of healing the crippled housing industry. The 11-term Democratic congressman from North Carolina has served on the powerful House Financial Services Committee for two decades. He is known for his efforts to combat predatory lending, and to promote homeownership among lower-income Americans. If confirmed by the Senate, Watt will replace Edward DeMarco, FHFA’s acting director for more than three years.
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The Afro-American, May 11, 2013 - May 11, 2013
May 11, 2013 - May 17, 2013, The Afro-American
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Tisha Edwards - the New Interim Schools CEO By Krishana Davis AFRO Staff Writer
Tisha Edwards, the Baltimore school system’s chief of staff, May 6 was named interim superintendent for the 2013-2014 school year, as Schools Superintendent Andres Alonso stepped down as superintendent of the Baltimore City Public School By Alan King System. AFRO Staff Writer “Now you are really Jennifer Hudson and other going to have a kick-ass relatives positively identified superintendent,” Alonso said at the well news conference to announce he was stepping down.
The departing CEO was teary-eyed at the end of a six-year term. He said he will teach at Harvard University’s School of Education and take care of his aging parents in New Jersey. Edwards, 42, said she is enthusiastic about assuming the role as interim superintendent. “I am honored and, as my great aunt would say sport-utility vehicle sought in ‘tickled pink,’ be murder chosenof as connection withtothe aHudson’s successor of Dr. Alonso,” mother and brother. The white, Edwards said.1994 “TheChevrolet thing that Suburban brings mewith hereIllinois in this license moment is my love for children. And I ask that everyone that is here to join me and support me in
as founding principal of the teacher pay increases based Baltimore Freedom Academy, on classroom performance a charter middle and high instead of tenure. school on Lombard Street. Councilwoman Mary Pat The school is being closed Clarke, chair of the education amid budget cuts. committee, said she Alonso is “Her contributions to this leaving a solid team in place. school were immense,” said “I am very sad that he is November 1, 2008Charles - November 7, 2008, The Washington Afro-American A3 Webb Jr., business leaving, but I can understand manager at Baltimore him wanting to take care of Freedom Academy. “She sick parents,” said Clarke. provided an opportunity for “He leaves behind a good young minds to be molded team that we will have until it from a neighbor about a suspiposted fliers bearing his photoand her love of the children is assumes new the leadership.” cious vehicle. The man noticed graph around city. On just as strong today as when it Edwards said her goalasked the vehicle while walking his Sunday, Jennifer Hudson dog. According to the Chicago for the public’s helpyear in finding started.” for the next school Tisha Edwards Andres Alonso Tribune, the boy had been shot hertonephew. Into her MySpace Edwards would not say if is continue push for multiple times in the back seat blog, she thanked fans and supshe wants to be the permanent rebuilding crumbling this wonderful opportunity Edwards’ career in the of the vehicle. The SUV, regisporters for their prayers school and superintendent. infrastructure and reworking that to take reform to school system was propelled teredwe to have Hudson’s murdered offered a $100,000 reward to brother, towed with the anyone whoteacher returnedevaluation the boy Marietta English, president the current the next was level.” by her appointment in 2003 boy’s body inside and is being alive. of the Baltimore Teachers system. processed by evidence techniSince the investigation, Union, said while there are “Our–role to continue cians and workers. The body Hudson whoisgained stardom married more than 60 years. still many pressing issues that to move the work forward was later removed and taken to after appearing on “American Now, she’s dealing with the Cook County Medical Idol,” and then wonstarted,” an need to be addressed in the that we’ve already her biggest challenge yet. Examiner’s office. Academy told Award her role in schools, Edwards is a good Edwards thefor AFRO. * Hudson and other family the movie Dreamgirls – has selection for the transition. “We’re not trying to reinvent. members arrived at the Medical stayed out of the public eye. These days, instead of We have a really good “I don’t think there is Examiner’s office mid-afterThe Chicago Tribune reportwaking up to make breakfast, Julian King, Jennnifer Hudson’s nephew. blueprint for reform. have anyone else who knows noon to identify the body. ed that a parade of carsWe moved then spend the day working Given the choice between lookslowly past hertofamily’s home a lot of work do.” the system as well as she A spokesman for the office the murders but is being held in Monday morning, past the about the house and yard, ing directly at the body or does,” English. “She Edwards also said in the told the newspaper Hudson jail for said parole violation after Grandma Evelyn isthat limited to viewing it on a wall-mounted news vans, reporters and curinext year she ous willonlookers. continue to understands the relationship minor tasks. She will sweep push to improve the quality between employee and Neighbors stood the floor, put away dishes, “She held hands with her family. It was obviously a veryShe emotional andthe of instruction.quietly She said management. understandsmoment.” fold laundry. There are signs on the district will bereflected supporting you to work “remained strong her famibeinghave convicted of alongside attempted posted around thefor house video screen, the family chose violence. the work of Chief Academic your employees.” ly” and washer clearly itsthe leader. murder and vehicular hijackthe latter. According to the In front of the Hudson’s reminding where “She held hands with her famiing.English Cook County records show Officer Sonia Brookins applauded Tribune, Hudson said, “Yes, home, men in heavy jackets bathroom and telephone are ly,” the spokesman said. “It that he pleaded to both that’s him.” and hoodedtosweatshirts Santelises close the came to Edwards’ workguilty in helping to and beware aofvery dangers like was to obviously emotional charges in 1999. He was also kiss the twin white crosses bargap between implement the new collective achievement moment.” the stove. She watches gospel convicted in 1998 for possesing the names of Donerson and Baltimore schools and its bargaining contract with The boy the sontoofsongs Julia sion of a stolen motor vehicle. Jason. stations and–listens Hudson, Jennifer’s sister – had He was released from prison in suburban counterparts. the schools which allows “Everybody is sick of going was always clear that playing on thesince programs. been missing Friday, 2006 after serving seven years through stuff like this,” Artisha her home and her sons A favorite is when a relativeactivity found Julian’s for the attempted murder and West, a former resident of the grandmother, car hijacking charges. were what made her the looking at theDarnell photo albums area told the Tribune. “We all out, “Grandma’s Andi Andi” may repeat her words several No wonder Obama’s campaign is my Donerson, 57, and his uncle, The boy remained missing happiest. dad brought from North have to stick together. All these trying to distance him from the Jason Hudson, 29, shot to death through a longinto weekend in when I walk the room. times. young children are dying, and It was“Barack also great Carolina for her. Shehome staresinat group, saying, Obama in his grandmother’s which police and volunteers We spend time together know that she may not for Iwhat?” seeing her do theACORN.” things athe favorite picture of Granddad Never Organized with 7000 block of South Yale almost every day. I do her remember everything we But Obama’s ties to ACORN that grandmas often run Avenue. She may tell a story Bynum. hair. I prepare her food if my share, but that’s okay because longdo. andEven deep. into He taught classes An their Amber – a desigher 80s, about lifeAlert together. She for ACORN. They even endorsed dad is not at home. I help her I will always be able to nation for high-risk missing shePresident. kept up with her often talks about two friends him for children – was issued Friday fold clothes. I talk to her. She look back and recall those gardening. Grandma Evelyn from her church back home. But now ACORN is in trouble. after Julian was discovered talks to me. It still gives me memories. Reporter: loved to stayThere busy.are at least Amazingly, several missing aftershe thedoes murders. I feel blessed to finally the 11 investigations Police arrested William She survivedacross her children crossword puzzles each week. great joy to hear her speak, country involving thousands of even though these days she have them. boy’s stepgrowing adulthood and one Balfour, Now the thatmissing I see her every potentiallytofraudulent ACORN father and estranged husband by one leaving home. She also day, she at means so much more forms. of Julia, his girlfriend’s Announcer: Massive voter survived the loss in 2008 of to me. It’sapartment uplifting to see her Southside several fraud. And the campaign hourslight afterup thewhen murders. Granddad, herObama beloved, who eyes she says paid more than $800,000 to an Balfour’s and mother, Michele, has died at age were “Hello!” when she shouts ACORN front86. forThey get out the vote
Jennifer Hudson and Relatives Identify Body of Her Slain Nephew
On Mother’s Day
Continued from A1 coming to live with us The thing I valued most, because dementia had left though, were the details of my her unable to care for herself. life she was able to fill in. Her The day my grandmother, stories about her children’s now 87, moved to Baltimore, childhoods--including my I was unsure how to feel. dad, Reginald--enthralled me Though I knew her face, I when I would visit.Courtesy Photos had a lot toHudson learn about “Crews and them boys,” Jennifer andthis her mom, Darnell Donerson who was killed, her brother, woman who as hadwell goneas from she’d Jason. say, referring to being a six-hour drive away her husband, Bynum, my plate X584859 was found on theliving body right of herabove 7-year-old to my Chicago’s West Side after nephew Monday, just hours basement bedroom. Her walk police received a 7 a.m. call after his body was found in a had become slower, her hair greyer, her back more curved. But she was still my grandmother. * Dementia is a cruel thing. and Dallas Cowboys players Alan King of the details ItBy robs sufferers Tony Romo and Terrell Owens, AFRO Staff Writer that make them who they are. among the names submitted to That’s what it is doing toJohn my election officials. Presidential candidate Hurd said those workers, who McCain’s attack on ACORN – grandmother. were doing those things without Associated Community Grandma Evelyn had ACORN’s knowledge or permisOrganization for Reform Now – always been a woman in sion, were fired. confirms the success of the control. I remember grandfather; my dad andsur“The evidence that has organization, the headhow of the faced uncles. so far shows groupher says. nice house was when three Shethey wasfaked a very forms to getBlack paid for work they is testimony to the work traditional we “This visited—the elephant woman didn’t do, not to stuff ballot we’ve done and success we’ve sculptures and other who didACORN, everything boxes.” she she said,could is the had,” Maude Hurd, president of memorabilia had placed to takeofcare of her family. I victim fraud, not the perpetraACORN, saidshe in an interview tor of it. that at meal time, with the AFRO. meticulously around the remember things “When attack room. Her this home wasstarted, a timewe sheHurd neversaid satthe to only eat until bogus are the charges themhad just announced that we had capsule of her family. her family been fed. selves. And had factcheck. org It registered 1.3 million new vot-
ACORN Fights Back
Leader Calls Voter Registration Fraud Charges ‘Bogus’
ers,” she said. “That’s just to say that someone’s running scared because of ACORN’s success.” McCain, who is running for Continued A1 president onfrom the Republican ticket, lashed out at ACORN in the only group in America that final debate against Barack refuses spend money in our Obama,to contending the group “is on the verge and of maybe community we’reperpetratpaying oneprice of thefor greatest aing high it.” frauds in voter history in this country, Access to major banks maybe destroying the fabric of made Black-owned banks democracy.” Factcheck.org, a non-partisan somewhat irrelevant, Web site, found those claims to O’Connor argued. be “exaggerated,” with “no evi“They don’t have the dence of any such democracysame significance. destroying fraud.” A lot of what made themthe unique Hurd believes McCain charges were politically motivathas disappeared,” he said. ed. “[And] unlike other raciallyShe said, “Because it’s lowconcentrated banks, their best and moderate-income people, customers have outgrown and people of color, I believe the McCain campaign thinks those them.” voters are going to vote With desegregation, Democratic, which is not necesmiddle-income African sarily true.” Americans fled innerACORN is notheir stranger to controversy. city communities for the For 38The years, the non-partisan suburbs. defections organization has fought for social meant that Black banks and economic justice for lowfound themselves in mostly and moderate-income Americans. With 400,000 memindigent communities with ber families organized into more high levels of unemployment, than 1,200 neighborhood chaplower attainment, ters in education 110 cities nationwide, drug addiction and ACORN has over thecrime, years seen its share ofvandalism, criticism while advoincluding which cating for affordable housing, meant higher costs of living wages, healthcare for the insurance. underserved— and while organAnd Black churches, an izing voter registration drives. But none has been as withering important part of the banks’ and baseless as lost this one. clientele, also their best With the presidential election tithers, meaning they soon less than two weeks away, found themselves in arrears ACORN’s detractors allege the organization has engaged in mason their loans. sive“The voterneed registration fraud and role of after the reported discovery of bogus Black banks were not to names, such as Mickey Mouse
Black Banks
agrees. It concluded, “Neither ACORN nor its employees have been found guilty of, or even charged with, casting fraudulent votes.” serve who were Thepeople problem came about prinot bankable,” said marily because of the Joseph way ACORN Jr., operates. Rather than Haskins co-founder, rely on volunteers, it pays peopresident and CEO of Harbor ple, many of them poor or unemBank of Maryland. “Part of ployed, to sign up new voters. the problem that developed The idea was to help both those beingBlack registered andisthose with banks that doing they the registration. were too narrowly focused in Maud explained, “We have a communities that had changed zero tolerance policy for deliberradically. And Black ate falsification many of registration.” Most news account neglect to banks who failed to change point profile out thatof ACORN is were their banking required by law to turn in all regdisproportionately serving istration forms. And they also fail those capable to notewho that were it wasless the organization, in manythe instances, that first of meeting requirements brought theloans phonyand registrations of paying other to the attention of authorities. responsible aspects of The McCain camp apparently banking.” isn’t interested in those fine African Americans points, preferring to air misleading ads thatthe seek to linkrate Obama comprise largest to ACORN, thereby undercutting of unbanked consumers, his political support. according theJohn FDIC. More McCain:toI’m McCain than one-fifth of Blacks do and I approve this message. Who isservices, Barack notAnnouncer: use any banking Obama? A man with “a political mostly due to lack of income. baptism performed at warp Another 33.9ambition. percentAfter are colspeed.” Vast underbanked--meaning lege, he moved to Chicago.these Became a community organizer. households have a checking There, Obama met Madeleine or savings account, but often Talbot, part of the Chicago rely on of alternative financial branch ACORN. He was so services such as non-bank impressive that he was asked to train theorders, ACORN staff. money non-bank What did ACORN in Chicago check-cashing services, engage in? Bullying banks. payday loans, rent-to-own Intimidation tactics. Disruption agreements, or pawn shops. of business. ACORN forced banks issue risky home loans. Thetorecent Great The same types of loans Recession, which was that caused the financial crisis we’re initiated in today. by the implosion
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efforts. Pressuring banksbubble to issueinrisky of the housing loans. Nationwide voter fraud. 2007, has created an even Barack Obama. Bad judgment. bleaker economic Blind ambition. Too climate risky for for America. Black banks, as the African-
American community faced Since McCain’s comments, unduly high jobless rates and ACORN’s 87 offices have been the onerous tollthreats of subprime bombarded with and loans. racist mail. The daythough after theBlack presidential “Even debate, vandals broke into the banks didn’t lead us into the organization’s Boston and Seattle Great they were officesRecession and stole computers. disproportionately hurt,” said After a Cleveland representative appeared Asante-Muhammad, on TV, an e-mail was Dedrick sent to the local office saying she director of NAACP Economic “is going to have her life ended.” Department. “Even if you A worker in Providence, R.I., made a good loan, ifcall your received a threatening saying, “We know you get offthey work customer lost their job, at 9” and uttered epithets. can’t make theirracial mortgage.” A caller to one office left a As more and more message on the answering customers—including machine, saying: “Hi, I was just calling to let you know that churches, whose congregants Barack needs get had lessObama capacity to to give— hung. He’s a (expletive deleted) defaulted their loanof nigger, andon he’s a piece payments and mortgages, (expletive deleted). You guysthe are fraudulent, andtheir you portfolios need to go to banks found hell. All the niggers oak trees. bogged down withon toxic They’re gonna get all hung honassets that could notgetbeassassioffeys, they’re going to loaded. nated, they’re gonna get killed.” Another message said, “You And, some financial liberal idiots. Dumb (expletive experts say, Black banks deleted). Welfare bums. You were less(expletive able to access guys just deleted) relief programs such as the come to our country, consume every natural resource there is, Community Development and makeInitiative a lot of babies. That’s Capital program, all you guys do. And then suck which was geared toward up the welfare and expect everyfinancial one else toinstitutions pay for your hospital bills serve for your kids. I jus’ say let that underserved your kids die. That’s the best communities and financed move. Just let your children die. under Troubled Asset Forget the about paying for hospital Relief bills forProgram. them. I’m not gonna do it. You guys are lowlifes. And I Linus Wilson, assistant hope you all professor ofdie.” finance at the Hurd thinks the hate calls will University cease soon. of Louisiana at Lafayette coauthor of “In two and weeks, I think these attacks will“Discrimination be over. But I think it the study willTARP be harder for us to getsaid our in Investments,” name back on good graces his research shows that nonbecause they really trashed us in African American the last few weeks.” institutions ButasACORN be were much aswill 10not times deterred. more likely to receive federal “We’ve been fighting for a subsidies from the program long time, for over 30 years, for than Black-owned the rights of low- andinstitutions moderateincome people all across after controlling for thethe country,” Hurd “We’re financial healthsaid. of the banks. going to continue to fight for “The TARP program is economic justice in our commudistasteful enough to most nities.”
told reporters that her son had nothing to do with the slayings. Americans. [But] the findingin Balfour remains a suspect
Jason Hudson
that racial discrimination may have played a role in High blood pressure, or the selection of banks for hypertension, is a widely the program is even more misunderstood medical SQUARE HIGH disconcerting,” he told the AFRO. condition. Some people Grant had a more think that those with optimistic outlook, saying hypertension are tense, despite the grave losses, nervous or hyperactive, but Black banks survived the hypertension has nothingNOT to ON THE LIST BREAD recession based on their do with personality traits. conservative, risk-averse The truth is, you can be a calm, relaxed person and approach to banking and will still have HBP. By keeping your blood pressure in the continue to thrive because healthy range (less than 120/80), you are: survival is part of their DNA. LEFT RIGHT “These banks are doing • Reducing your risk of the walls of your blood well considering they have a vessels walls becoming overstretched and very low percent of capital,” injured he said. “If you look at these • Reducing your risk of having a heart attack or banks, you would find a lot stroke; and developing heart failure, kidney of resilience and creativity. failure and peripheral vascular disease. They are experts at managing • Protecting your entire body so that your tissue with few resources and small margins.” receives regular supplies of blood that is rich in There is hope for the the oxygen it needs 1 BANANA future of Black banks, the We encourage everyone to: Get in the know and NAACP’s Asante-Muhammad on the Go, take charge of your health and “Get to added. Goal.” Join our free Get to Goal program today. “More and more, big Knowledge is power and you can work with our banks are not looking to serve health coaches to get your blood pressure in check. middle-income consumers and are leaving that to smaller “Know your risk factors, talk to your doctor, and banks and credit unions, etc. take charge of your heart health”..... Dr. Zayd A. [For them] if the customer Eldadah’s, Close the Gap Champion. does not have $100,000 or more, [they question] Dr. Zayd A. Eldadah Before age five, every room is a classroom. is it worth the risk? And that opens up a space forFun learning opportunities are everywhere. Simple things like counting and identifying shapes activate a child’s learning ability, individual community banks,” and help them enter school more prepared. That’s why PNC he said. founded Grow Up Great and its Spanish-language equivalent Crezca $ Haskins agreed. Harbor con Éxito, a 10-year,Get 100 to million program to help prepare young Goal is looking for participants to children life. Pick up a free bilingual Sesame Street™ Bank claims to be the first for school andreceive free blood pressure monitoring as “Happy, Healthy, Ready for School” kit at a PNC branch. It’s filled community bank in the well as health helpa facilitate. with all kinds of simple, everyday things coaches you can doto to help child country to have an investment learn. Together, we can work with our communities so an entire For more information, please visit subsidiary, Harbor Financial generation won’t just grow up... but grow up great. Services. www.heart360.org/gettogoal-baltimore Haskins said his bank To find out more,The go American to pncgrowupgreat.com Heart Association/American Stroke survived by diversifying it’s or call 1-877-PNC-GROW. Association High Blood Pressure Program is supported services and clientele and in part by Boston Scientific through their Close the Gap using the latest technology. initiative and locally supported by “It comes back to the Johns Hopkins Medicine survival of the fittest: Those that survive are the ones that are most adaptable to the changing times.” TM /©2008 Sesame Workshop. All rights reserved. ©2008 The PNC Financial Services Group, Inc. All rights reserved.
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The Afro-American, May 11, 2013 - May 17, 2013
May 11, 2013 - May 11, 2013, The Afro-American
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Retired NFL Player Empowers Baltimore Boys through Youth Academy By Albert Phillips Special to the AFRO A Virginia Tech football star and former NFL player is using his knowledge of professional sports and commitment to education to mentor young boys in Baltimore. In 2011, Keion Carpenter, along with former pro football players Bryant Johnson and Aaron Maybin, established Shutdown Academy. Designed to help discipline and educate Baltimore youths, the Shutdown Academy provides athletic training, mentoring, and tutoring to about 200 boys ages five through 15. In sports, “shut down” means to dominate by not allowing the opposing team or player to perform to their potential in a game. Carpenter liked the term so much that he initially named his sports program Team Shutdown but decided to change it to Shutdown Academy because he understood the importance of education. “We take pride in this because we were one of these kids,” said Carpenter, who retired due to excessive injuries in 2006 after playing eight years in the NFL. “We owe it to these kids to come back and do this.” A Baltimore native, Carpenter graduated from Woodlawn Senior High school in 1995, before becoming a Hokie at Virginia Tech from 1995-1998. He holds the school record for blocking punts with six blocks in his college career. He said college helped him become more self-reliant while living in a diverse environment. “That was the first time I was on my own,” said Carpenter. “I always had my mom or my grandmother there to kind of wipe my nose and help me when I slipped or fell, but I had to become a man in college. That was key, mentally, for me.” The record-breaking athlete received his bachelor’s degree in residential property management with a minor in housing interior design and resource management in 1999. He then signed a contract as a rookie freeagent that same year with the Buffalo Bills, embarking on a career that was cut short by injuries when he was playing for the Atlanta Falcons seven years later. According to the National Collegiate Athletic Association, less than two percent of college football players play professionally. Conscious of his “blessing” of becoming one of those fortunate few, Carpenter rarely talks
Photos by Alexis Taylor
Baltimore native Keion Carpenter, retired NFL safety, encourages some of the younger members of Shutdown Academy on the sidelines of a May 4 game.
Going three years strong, members of Team Shutdown build character while crafting their skills on the field. about the NFL to his young players. “We talk more college than anything because that’s a place where they all can go,” said Carpenter. “I don’t want to sell pipeline dreams because everybody isn’t going to go
to the NFL, but that doesn’t mean you’re not going to be successful or reach your goals and dreams.” Carpenter is not alone in his vision to bring change to Baltimore youth through sports and academics. Shutdown Academy athletic director, Schazz Lee sees Shutdown as a “rewarding experience.” His roles include ensuring that players have proper equipment, registering Shutdown Academy for football leagues, and helping to coach. Schazz said the he plans for Shutdown Academy to evolve into a charter school by 2015 to serve children from kindergarten to the eighth grade. Carpenter added that the
school will include 21st century technology including iPads instead of traditional books. Like Lee, other coaches and staff members make Shutdown Academy a beneficial organization. Charles Moore, or “the mouth piece” as he calls himself, has been coaching for Shutdown for about two years and said the organization has done “wonders” for his son. “These kids need discipline and focus and Shutdown provides that,” said Moore, a recovering addict who has been drug-free for 12 years. His son, 11-year-old Marcus Moore, plays wide receiver for Shutdown’s 12 and up team. Marcus does not have a favorite athlete, but he said he admired Baltimore Ravens’ running back Ray Rice. School-wise, Marcus’ preferred subject is World Culture because he enjoys “learning about other cultures.” Its reputation spreading mostly through word-of-mouth, Shutdown Academy has attracted many parents in a way Carpenter likens to a business’ success that is enhanced by customer service. “One parent is happy, so they go out and tell another person and it spreads like that. If one person has a good experience they’re going to go and tell somebody else, “said Carpenter. Conversing with other parents and observing her children from the sideline, Shakeeta Smith is a loyal “team mom” with two children in Shutdown. Although her children are still in their first year at Shutdown, Smith said she already notices differences in her children, David and Khalil. “My children have become much more focused. They push them really hard here,” said Smith. Before signing her boys up for Shutdown, she considered other options but ended up staying with Shutdown and its holistic approach to teaching. “This is the first team that teaches them everything,” Smith added. Outside of Shutdown Academy, Carpenter also provides other services to Baltimore City’s young adults. Created in 2006, For My Kids Inc. helps at risk youth become “productive members of society” through community service, crisis prevention, athletic training, gang rehabilitation, tutoring, mentorship and job workforce development. In the summer of 2008, Carpenter introduced Commitment 4 Change (C4C), a “substance-related” summer camp that provides an educational and interactive experience through football, workshops, and group discussions. The camp includes celebrity appearances, math and reading exercises, dialogues on substance abuse, and financial literacy sessions sponsored by State Farm. This summer they also plan to add on an etiquette and grooming component. “When they leave our camp, they leave better than they were when they came,” said Carpenter.
Judge Clayton Greene Jr.
Continued from A1
Team Shutdown takes on the Terps, another group of young athletes.
administrative judge for the Fifth Judicial Circuit, which includes Anne Arundel, Howard and Carroll counties and the Court of Appeals of Maryland, the state’s highest court. Baltimore attorney William H. “Billy” Murphy Jr. said he has long admired the strong work ethic and commitment to excellence Greene has exhibited during his career. “He is tremendously intelligent. He has superior judgment and complete
integrity,” said Murphy. “He has a very, very strong sense of fairness and it permeates
not only in his judicial interactions, but in the way he treats other people.”
‘Dead Giveaway’ Continued from A1
from the house in the 2200 block of Seymour Avenue. Georgina DeJesus, 23, and Michelle Knight, 32, were also rescued, according to Cleveland police. Each had been held about 10 years against her will. The suspects are brothers Pedro Castro, 54; Ariel Castro, 52; and Onil Castro, 50. They are held in police custody pending the filing of charges. Two words from a Ramsey television interview, “dead giveaway” have been used as the title of a music video featuring the erstwhile hero that has gone viral.
Mfume Named Chairman Continued from A1
keeps him in the president’s post until June 2014. After 2014, Mfume said, Wilson will no longer have to rely on the board for contract renewal. “We hope [Wilson] will be around for many more years to come,” said Mfume. The board also voted to create the Global School of Journalism and Communications, establish a 16th doctoral program in transportation systems and urban infrastructure, and created a December graduation for seniors. The board also named Glenn George to be the student regent for the 2013-2014 school year. A Morgan alumnus, Mfume was first appointed to the board of regents under
then-Gov. William Donald Schaefer. He was named alumnus of the year by the Morgan State University Alumni Association in 2013 and holds an honorary doctorate from the university. Mfume received his undergraduate degree from Morgan in 1976. Mfume said his vision for the university is to increase competitiveness among students in fields such as technology and to ensure that Morgan students are prepared to compete in the rapidly-changing job market. He said the board of regents will stand united with alumni, students and the greater Baltimore community to ensure the success of students in the global economy.
May 11, 2013 - May 17, 2013, The Afro-American
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BUSINESS
Alex Dixon Named Vice President and Assistant General Manager of Horseshoe Casino Baltimore CBAC Gaming, LLC, the Caesars Entertainment Corp.-led consortium developing Horseshoe Casino Baltimore, recently announced that gaming industry veteran Alex Dixon will serve as vice president and assistant general manager of the $400 million downtown Baltimore property. Pending regulatory approvals, Dixon will assume the position June 1. Dixon joined Caesars Entertainment in May 2008 and served as the director of planning and analysis for such high-profile Las Vegas casinos as Paris, Bally’s and Planet Hollywood. In that position, Dixon managed the financial budgeting and capital allocation processes for properties with combined gross revenues of more than $1 billion. In the years since, Dixon has served in multiple leadership positions within Caesars’ Enterprise Shared Services division, overseeing capital and operating budgets, human resources matters and regulatory compliance issues as well as communications, operations and information technology. Immediately prior to being Alex Dixon named vice president and assistant general manager of Horseshoe Casino Baltimore, Dixon served as chief of staff to Caesars Entertainment President of Enterprise Shared Services John Payne. In that role, Dixon played an integral role in the development of the Horseshoe Casino Baltimore as well as projects in Cleveland, Cincinnati and Boston.
In his new position, Dixon will oversee the daily operations of the casino while upholding the industry leading standards of Caesars and the Horseshoe brand. He will report directly to Horseshoe Casino Baltimore Senior Vice President and General Manager Chad Barnhill. “Alex’s financial and operational expertise will be tremendous assets as we prepare to open a world-class gaming entertainment facility in Baltimore next year,” Barnhill said in a statement. “Alex’s broad knowledge of the casino industry will be instrumental in ensuring we deliver an exceptional experience to our customers and manage our relationships with vendors, business partners and community stakeholders with unsurpassed professionalism.” Prior to joining Caesars in 2008, Dixon served in New York, London and Los Angeles as an analyst with Goldman Sachs & Co. and in Las Vegas as an associate with Silver Pacific Advisors, LLC. Dixon graduated from the Howard University School of Business in 2003 with a degree in finance. Committed to community service, Dixon has served as treasurer for Habitat for Humanity Las Vegas and president of the Las Vegas Urban League Young Professionals. He was also appointed to the Clark County (Nevada) Committee on Community Priorities. Dixon will reside in Baltimore with his wife and three children.
Victor McTeer Joins McDaniel College Board Victor McTeer, a retired trial lawyer and one of the first AfricanAmerican graduates of the college, has been named to the McDaniel College board of trustees. A native of Baltimore, he became a prominent Victor McTeer civil rights lawyer in Mississippi Reconstruction period to after graduating from argue a case before the U.S. Western Maryland College Supreme Court. (McTeer (now McDaniel) and the won the case.) Now living Rutgers School of Law. in Key West, Fla., McTeer At age 25, he was the maintains a home in first Black Mississippi Greenville, Miss. lawyer since the
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The Afro-American, May 11, 2013 - May 17, 2013
PEOPLE Hope Lodge Gets $100,000 Through Cancer Survivor
U.S. Dream Academy Executive Director Named To 2013 List of Maryland’s Top 100 Women
C. Diane Wallace Booker, executive director of the U.S. parents. Since its inception in 1998, she has played a Dream Academy, has been named to The Daily Record’s key role in creating and growing the programming and 2013 list of Maryland’s Top 100 fundraising structure for the U.S. Women. Dream Academy. She led the initial The Daily Record created its pilot program and the subsequent annual list of Maryland’s Top expansion initiatives of the Dream 100 Women in order to recognize Academy to ten locations across outstanding achievement by women the U.S., and has helped raise the who have demonstrated significant organization’s profile tremendously, professional accomplishments, leading to increased national outstanding community leadership awareness of the needs of children and inspirational mentoring. This with incarcerated parents. In 2000, President Bill Clinton helped to year’s Daily Record Top 100 Women open the first Center in Washington celebrates its 18th anniversary. Since D.C. along with support from former 1996, the newspaper has recognized Secretary Alexis Herman. From more than 1,000 high-achieving Capitol Hill to Oprah Winfrey, women who are making an impact C. Diane Wallace Booker and many elected officials and in Maryland. This year’s winners internationally recognized celebrities, were honored May 6 at the Meyerhof Wallace Booker along with the help Symphony Hall in Baltimore. of her staff, has rallied individuals around the country to Wallace Booker serves as Executive Director of the U.S. Dream Academy, a national non-profit, which works to commit themselves to aiding the important works of the U.S. Dream Academy. provide support and mentorship to children of incarcerated
Barbara Palmer
Thanks to American Cancer Society volunteer and breast cancer survivor Barbara Palmer, Baltimore’s ACS Hope Lodge is receiving a $10,000 gift from Exelon as part of the company’s Employee Volunteer Awards program. Barbara is an employee of BGE, an Exelon company. Annually, Exelon selects 18 employees who perform outstanding volunteer work and honors their commitment with a Volunteer Award and a contribution to the nonprofit each serves.
Palmer has been an ACS volunteer since 1994 and has been involved in the Baltimore Making Strides Against Breast Cancer organization since 2007. This two-time breast cancer survivor is a strong advocate for the Society and its programs and services and she has spent much of her time at the Hope Lodge. “Barbara is what we call a Hope Lodge Ambassador. That means no job is too big or small,” Karen Seaberry, Baltimore Hope Lodge Manager said in a statement.
“She will sit at the front desk, volunteer at Society events, and will even go out into the community and speak on our behalf.” Palmer and a
representative from the Hope Lodge will attend a special awards luncheon this month where she will receive her award and the $10,000 gift will be presented.
“Exelon is an amazing company that promotes community service and supports local non-profits in an exceptional manner,” Seaberry said in a statement.
“Dedicated donors like Exelon are the driving force behind significant progress against cancer, and we are honored to be one of this year’s recipients.”
COMMUNITY CONNECTION May 10 All Access Concert Featuring Tye Tribbett Jesus House Baltimore, 7710 Windsor Mill Road, Baltimore. 7 p.m. Gospel music singer Tye Tribbett will perform at the Jesus House. For more information: 410-521-4783.
Morgan State University Jazz Ensemble Concert Gilliam Concert Hall, Morgan State University, 2201 Argonne Drive, Baltimore. 7 p.m. The Morgan State Jazz Ensemble, directed by Melvin N. Miles Jr. will present its annual concert. $5. For more information: Murphyfineartscenter.org.
May 11 Laurel Main Street Festival 2013 342 Main Street, Laurel, Md. 9 a.m.-4 p.m. Main Street in Laurel will be lined with over 350 vendors. Festivities will begin with a grand parade. For more information: Laurelboardoftrade.net.
May 12 “To Mother With Love” Mother’s Day Brunch Angels Event Center, 1810 Cherry Hill Road, Baltimore. 11 a.m. Enjoy Mother’s Day with a tasty brunch. $25-$30. For more information: Angelsbrunch.eventbrite.com. Jeff Majors Mother’s Day Celebration Concert Toby’s Dinner Theatre, 5625 O’Donnell St., Baltimore. 3 p.m. Jeff Majors will perform in celebration of Mother’s Day. Also enjoy a delicious buffet. $60. For more information: 410-649-1660.
presents
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May 11, 2013 - May 17, 2013, The Afro-American
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OPINION
Is Growth Without Full Employment Real Progress? It is time for the Congress to take action that addresses the linkage between unacceptable levels of unemployment and our federal budgetary policy. As I had hoped, my 16th Annual Job Fair last month was a tangible success for many of the 3,500 job-seekers, more than 60 employers and 40 workforce investment experts who participated. I only wish that some of my Republican House colleagues could have attended. I will not criticize them for failing to make the drive from Washington to Baltimore. What I do question, however, is their failure to actively participate in our Joint Economic Committee’s April 24th hearing on solutions to this nation’s long-term unemployment. Our committee’s Democratic Staff has confirmed that Rep. Elijah “nearly 40 percent of America’s 12 million unemployed Cummings workers have been out of work for more than six months . . . 25 percent of them for more than a year.” Helping the 4.4 million Americans who have been seeking work for more than six months find good jobs is a crucial national objective. We must unravel the economic knot that has kept unemployment too high, even as the private sector has added 6.5 million new jobs over the past three years. I am encouraged that Black and Hispanic Americans, among the hardest hit by the Bush Recession, are making modest progress in returning to our labor force – and I believe that grassroots efforts like my annual job fair are helping. Nevertheless, my Republican colleagues’ apparent disinterest in policies that could address our structural unemployment challenges ignores the harsh reality that many American communities, especially communities of color, are mired in depression-like valleys of despair. Democrats and Republicans alike should enthusiastically endorse the practical, bipartisan initiatives advanced by my colleague, Sen. Amy Klobuchar of Minnesota, vice chair of our Joint Economic Committee. Here is why. We know that those lacking the education and skills that are central to our 21st Century economy are among the most likely to be excluded from good jobs that pay a living wage. Yet, without sufficient encouragement, our private sector has been less than enthusiastic about providing that training “on-the-job.” We also know that when our government and educational sectors support skills training and continuing education, our unemployed neighbors gain the ability to qualify for better jobs. All of us gain as a result. The expert witnesses at our April Joint Economic Committee hearing were clear in their
The Hip Hop Dilemma
I call it the hip hop dilemma. The symptoms are all around us. You hate the new direction hip hop is going in and you hate that the young boys are wearing tight jeans. Still, hip hop has a tremendous pull, something that you can’t ignore. And if it’s a dilemma for our younger generation, imagine what it’s like for adults. Ask your mother or aunt what is their dilemma with hip hop and the question will ignite a long, drawn out conversation because in some way or another hip hop bothers them. Deeply. I am writing this column, in part, because I want to help bridge the generation gap in our community. Just because our elders don’t like our music doesn’t mean I have to ascribe negative motives to them or they to us. Civil rights leaders just want us to use our power wisely and remember the battles from which we came. At the same time, the hip hop pioneers and legends just want to be recognized for their greatness and they want the true meaning of hip hop to be appreciated by all age groups. True hip hop artists and fans have been preparing for the day real hip hop returns. In the meantime, a new school of young people are making their own way, making their own rules with the power that has been prematurely handed to them. What is Hip Hop? If you ask most, it’s music gone wild. But it’s more than that. This art form represents a way of communicating – an attitude, a position, a swag, life lived freely. When people talk about hip hop, they say it’s a youth movement. This is our first dilemma. Hip hop will be 39 years old this year (it began Aug. 11, 1973). That was the age of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. when he was assassinated in Memphis. Instead of teaching the younger generation, some elders have left the youth to their own devices. Consequently, some of our artists make missteps. Lil Wayne’s denigration of Emmitt Till is one example .Our music legends are not spending enough time with younger artists.
Jineea Butler
recommendations for bipartisan action. First, Congress should expand our support for smart, cost-effective public investments in workforce training, especially those programs that target the expanding sectors of our economy. Second, we should better focus our job search initiatives so that they more accurately target job opportunities aligned with unemployed workers’ skills. Finally, we also should do all that we can to strengthen our community colleges’ training partnerships with the private sector. To be fair, many of my Republican colleagues see the wisdom in these three recommendations. Yet, they fail to give them the priority that they warrant. Concerned about our federal budget deficits, many are reluctant to spend the money – and that, in my view, is a fundamental mistake. My parents’ generation – the men and women who survived and brought America back from the Great Depression of the 1930s – had an insight that applies to our failure to adequately support workforce investment today. They advised us to avoid being penny wise and pound foolish. Their wisdom accurately describes our failure to make the necessary investments in our workforce. As a direct result of our failure, we reduce economic growth in the short term and run the risk of budget deficits for decades to come. I suspect that too many Tea Party Republicans have come to believe their own political metaphor linking our budget debates to a family’s kitchen table spending decisions. Although that homespun image is politically powerful, it is not accurate. As Princeton’s Nobel Prize winning economist, Paul Krugman, recently observed: “The economy is not like an individual family . . . . In the economy as a whole, my spending is your income, and your spending is my income.” If we are serious about both stimulating growth and reducing unemployment, Dr. Krugman continues, “now is the time for above-normal government spending to sustain the economy until the private economy is willing to spend again.” Expanded federal spending – if applied wisely to job creation and training – will lead to longer-term prosperity and more balanced federal books. While our overall economy is slowly recovering and is no longer in recession, far too many Americans continue to face a depression. Growth without full employment is not the progress that we need. We should be investing in economic progress that includes America’s abandoned working families. They, in turn, will gain the skills and jobs that will allow them to repay our nation with interest. That would be real progress indeed. Congressman Elijah Cummings represents Maryland’s 7th Congressional Districtin the United States House of Representatives.
Who should be leading them? Logically, legends such as Afrika Bambataa, Kool Herc, Grand Master Caz, Pebblee Poo, Roxanne Shante and Kangol Kid. They should be schooling the young people on respectful content, situations to avoid and direction. The Tru School artists like Big Daddy Kane, Rakim, KRS-ONE, Del La Soul Brand Nubian, and Monie Love should nurture the music we know and love at the record labels and the radio stations. Young people naturally look to their elders for direction, but what do they see? Do they see role models? Or, do they see broken homes and gun shot wounds? Where else can you make $300 million with no educational requirements, no drug testing and no prior experience? Your only responsibility is to come up with a slick line that everybody in the hood will repeat. Hip hop teaches them they can stay true to themselves and represent who they are in the streets. The street is the place where they feel most comfortable because the streets are real to them. The streets give them experiences that are relevant to the world they are growing up in. The schools are not teaching at the pace that these young people are learning and absorbing information. So hip hop music becomes their outlet but today there is no agenda, no demand for progress. We therefore render our entire community defenseless when we allow major entities to use the power of money to entice our young people with a false sense of reality. We have cookie cutter artists who have no vision, who have no morals and who have no idea what kind of damage they are causing. These artists, corporations, and record labels have access to the minds and ears of our most precious cargo. When we don’t step in and protect our children from harm in any form, we ourselves are an accessory to the crime. This conversation will be continued. Jineea Butler, founder of the Social Services of Hip Hop and the Hip Hop Union, can be reached at jineea@gmail.com or Tweet her at @flygirlladay.
Clarence Thomas’s Deep-Seated Jealousy For someone who seems to revel in being silent during the Supreme Court’s traditionally lively oral arguments – when a public display of his professional competence would be appropriate – Clarence Thomas’s out-of-court comments are extraordinarily revealing. They show a man whose exalted position has brought him no inner peace, a man who continues to see himself as being victimized by this or that person or cabal. In an early-April interview with C-SPAN, Thomas tried to diminish President Obama’s achievements. Asked about Obama, the nation’s first Black president, Thomas said, “I always knew that it would have to be a Black president who was approved by the elites and the media because anybody that they didn’t agree with, they would take apart.” He went on to say “that will happen with virtually, you pick your person, any Black person who says something that is not the prescribed things that they expect from a Black person will be picked apart. You can pick anybody, don’t pick me, pick anyone who has decided not to go along with it. There’s a price to pay. So I always assumed it would be somebody the media had to agree with.” Thomas didn’t identify which “elites” and which “media” he was referring to. But presumably the latter doesn’t include Fox News or the Wall Street Journal and other conservative-leaning newspapers and publications nor the innumerable conservative pundits and talk-show jockeys that have been hammering Obama since he won the Democratic nomination in 2008. And presumably the elites don’t include the long list of wealthy conservatives who’ve spent millions upon millions opposing the president’s initiatives and his re-election. But then, Clarence Thomas has never been one to let facts undermine his raging self-pity. In fact, Thomas’s attempt to diminish the president just underscores what they have – and don’t have – in common. Both men are products of elite colleges and law schools. But while Thomas hid behind a self-perceived “defect,” Barack Obama took an active role in the life of the institutions he attended. At Harvard, he sought and won membership on the law review, and then, the approval
Lee A. Daniels
of the review’s members to be their president. Clarence Thomas drew no job offers from law firms when he graduated in 1974. He’s claimed this was the result of the “taint” of affirmative action. But numerous articles over the years have shown that Thomas’s Black Yale Law peers have a decidedly different view of their experience. “Did Affirmative Action Really Hinder Clarence Thomas?,” available on the web site {Law. com}, should be required reading. It found “in interviews with a dozen African-American lawyers who attended Yale in the same years” that they described their Yale experience “in largely positive – even glowing – terms.” The most striking contrast between Clarence Thomas and Barack Obama, of course, is what they’ve done after law school. Thomas, taken up by then-Senator John Danforth, a Missouri Republican, shortly after graduation, has been a government appointee his entire adult career – while declaring that Blacks as a group are too dependent on the government. With, at best, minimal qualifications he was appointed to the two most prestigious positions in the federal judiciary, the U.S. Court of Appeals for the District of Columbia Circuit, and less than two years later, the Supreme Court. Barack Obama, on the other hand, spurned lucrative offers from law firms and potential federal court clerkships, to become a community organizer in Chicago. There, he began his career of standing for elective office at the local, statewide, and national level. His galvanic speech at the 2004 Democratic National Convention instantly made him a future presidential contender. He won the presidency twice in the toughest kind of combat outside of actual warfare by out-thinking and out-organizing his Republican opposition to garner the approval of millions of voters. Personal and professional jealousy is always unseemly – the more so in a Justice of the United States Supreme Court. Lee A. Daniels is a longtime journalist based in New York City. His most recent book is Last Chance: The Political Threat to Black America.
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The Afro-American, May 11, 2013 - May 11, 2013
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Phone selection and availability may vary by store. Coverage and services not available everywhere. See store or metropcs.com for coverage, details and Terms and Conditions of Service (including arbitration provision) for additional information. MetroPCS features and services for personal use only. Nationwide long distance only available to the continental United States and Puerto Rico. Nationwide coverage of over 280 million population based on 2011 Target Pro data. Abnormal Usage: Service may be slowed, suspended, terminated, or restricted for misuse, abnormal use, interference with our network or ability to provide quality service to other users, or roaming usage predominance. MetroPCS related brands, product names, company names, trademarks, service marks, and other intellectual property are the exclusive properties of MetroPCS Wireless, Inc. All other brands, product names, company names, trademarks, service marks, and other intellectual property are the properties of their respective owners. Copyright Š2013 T-Mobile USA, Inc.
May 11, 2013 - May 17, 2013, The Afro-American
Geraldine Richardson, district governor, Irma P. Deas, recipient of Sojourner Truth Award, Darleen Thomas, president
Seated; Bernice Hardy, Geraldine Richardson, district governor. Standing Pauline McKeason, Reona Thomas, Edmonia Yates, Carrie S. Jeter, Jean Owens, DarleenThomas
Guests Debbie Campbell, Tommie Yeager, Stella Fullwood and Everett Fullwood
Special to the AFRO With his typical flourish, Baltimore fashion icon Travis Winkey kicked off the 2013 Charm City’s International Fashion Week. Winkey declared the start of the month-long celebration of fashion from the podium at the Eubie Blake National Jazz Institute and Cultural Center, surrounded by models and the kind of elegant fashion statements he has been identified with over the four decades in which he has dominated Baltimore’s fashion scene. “When you think of fashion and design and Baltimore as it relates, you think of Travis Winkey,” former NAACP President Marvin “Doc” Cheatham said. Winkey, who was dubbed by boxing great Muhammad Ali “the prince of fashion,” said he has followed his life’s passion for fashion. Even as a child, Winkey said, “I have always had a love for fashion.” He has influenced design and served as a fashion consultant all over the world. “I love Baltimore, I bring people to the city who have never been here before,” said Winkey. The Charm City Fashion Week kickoff is only the beginning of a thirty-day salute to Winkey’s accomplishments.” His love affair with fashion is surpassed only by the city’s
Guests Reginald Williamson, Tiffany Silver, Eugene Gaines
Deputy sheriffs, Baltimore City, seated: Shantae McNair, April Tillman, Catina Watkins, Lt. Carla Lightsey, Monica R. Smith. Standing: Sharyl Jacobs, Nicole Lawson, Daryl Thomas, Lenita Verrett, Del. Barbara Robinson, Jo Zillmann, Trina Anderson, Carol Canty Ruth Lee, life member
Nkoosazana Acirfa-Bambata, center, recipient of the scholarship award, with officers
Florine Robinson, past national secretary, receiving tribute from Darleen Thomas with President Odessa Dorkins looking on
Award recipients: from left, Geraldine Richardson, Bertina Silver, Darlene Thomas, Irma P. Deas, Del. Barbara Robinson, Dr. Edmonia T. Yates. Standing: Dr. Stansbury, Nkosazana Acirfa-Bambata, Dr. Marcella A. Copes, Florine Robinson and Dr. James Carter
Bernice Hardy offering a tribute to the founders
By Blair Adams
The National Association of Negro Business and Professional Women’s Clubs of Baltimore City recently held its 72nd Annual Founders Day Observance and Awards Luncheon, April 27, at the Forum Caterers in Baltimore. Among the honorees were Dr. Clayton Stansbury, Man of the Year; Bertina Silver, professional achievement; the Rev. Dr. James Carter, community service; Dr. Marcella Copes, distinguished service; Dr. Ebube Odunukwe, international community service; Nkosazana AcirfaBambata, scholarship; Dr. Edmonia Yates, appreciation and Irma Deas, the Sojourner Truth award. The club, whose mission is to promote and protect the interest of African Americans in business, was founded by the late Hattie Tyler in 1941.
love affair with him, as attested to by the proclamations and well wishes he received from state Del. Shirley NathanPulliam and others. Cheatham told the AFRO, “I’ve known Travis since the late 60’s and he has been outstanding both state and worldwide. He has done a lot for the Baltimore community and has had a positive mark on the city.” Fashion Week in Baltimore will continue through the last week in May. Other events include a fashion industry party at the Eubie Blake National Jazz Institute and Cultural Center May 24; a Black and White party at the Downtown Cultural Arts Center May 25: a VIP Luncheon with Beverly Johnson held at The Downtown Cultural Arts Center and an Old School Cabaret held at the Fifth Regiment Armory. The Fashion events will conclude on May 26 with the Shift into Style Designer Showcase being held at the Baltimore Hilton Hotel. Former Winkey model and friend Marsha Reeves Jews said, “I’ve watched Travis make changes in people’s lives. I’ve watched him change how people saw themselves and their interest and commitment to this community and the hard work that they have given to this city.” Jews said Winkey put Baltimore on the map for fashion and “made certain people saw the other side of Baltimore.”
Dr. James L. Carter receives Community Service Award
Carolyn Jenkins, soloist
Photos by J.D. Howard
Morning talk show host, former Sen. Larry Young
Linda Felder and Travis Winkey with Jermyia Parks and Talia Brooks
Erin Carr, Kelly Ward, Linda Starodubova, Attorney Dwight Pettit, Joy Ajayi, Taisha Lawrence, Chyna Allen
Nick Mosby, District 7 City Councilman and former model for Travis
Travis Winkey and Marsha Jews
Photos by J.D. Howard
Sir Andre and Mizz BiBi
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Felicia and William Sweet with Travis Winkey
Travis Winkey receiving citation from Del. Shirley Nathan-Pulliam
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The Afro-American, May 11, 2013 - May 17, 2013
Character Education Essay Contest Winners Nassir Holder Franklin Middle School Baltimore County
Camille Offendel, Assistant Vice President Legg Mason Global Fiduciary
Camille Offendel’s profile inspired me to incorporate positive traits into my life. She said, “The most important lesson I’ve learned is that regardless of your background and circumstances, you are responsible for who you become.” She looked past what was currently going on in her life and made a solid foundation for her career. I chose the article because it spoke to me. It taught me you cannot complain about your life because you have the power to fix it. I also believe that you and only you can find your special gift. She had an eye opener that made her realize what she needed to do to be the best she can be. Her eye opener was realizing a better education would raise her up the corporate ladder. This article is my eye opener and helps me see what I have to do in school for later on in life. In the article, Offendel said her college degree was her foundation for reaching where she is right now. I also think education is an opportunity that will get me to my successful life in the future. I want to be an entrepreneur of my own soda company and education is necessary in the business field. As Offendel said, you have to be humble when working with people. I want to be proud when I look in the mirror and say this is how my life is supposed to be because of me. I want to reach the goals I have set for myself. This article is an exact replica of my plan for success because I believe I can change things. I plan to use this article as a road map to my perfect destination. I will use what I learned to shape my future because this article taught me I am my future. I can change my future for the better or I can ruin it. Offendel says in her article that you have to be responsible with your life. That means doing what you have to do and doing it thoroughly. Although I am interested in the business field, many people my age are interested in careers in music and theater. This article can be used to shape your goals for any career. If you want to have a career in singing, your foundation would be music school. You cannot sit down and hope you have your “big break.” You have to associate with people who can help you get there but you have to take control. This article encourages me to use self-discipline because Offendel states that if you don’t, your success will be short-lived. One of her biggest points that I agree with is, the time to change your life is now. In seventh grade I learned my grades could affect what high school I could attend. By the time I realized this, my grades weren’t as high as I wanted them to be. I had a B average which is not the best in my house because my parents and I know that doesn’t truly reflect me. It was then that I also realized that if I wanted to be an entrepreneur I should focus on business in high school. That was another eye opener which will take me very far. I am zoned for Owings Mills High School but I am going to Carver Center and participating in the business management and finance magnet. I was accepted into Carver because I took the time to make things right. Offendel’s profile showed that the only thing that can stop you from reaching your highest potential is you. It taught me that you can’t sit around and let opportunities pass by you. I learned from her mistake and I now know that sitting around will hurt me. I have to be responsible because one mistake can mess me up, as it almost did in seventh grade. Although it is hard to admit, my peers and I sometimes like to blame our failures on others. Offendel’s article helped me realize that in order to change my life I have to act upon it and do so. Her profile reminds me of Michael Jackson’s “Man in the Mirror” because they both state that change starts with you. Now my life’s plan is to do things that will help my success and benefit my education and my career, while doing what’s right and helping others too.
Joshua Chen Roberto Clemente Middle School Montgomery County
Kyle Carson, Senior Engineer Smart Grid Engineering Baltimore Gas and Electric
One article that inspired me was “Be a Good Influence” by Kyle Carson in the Character Education Week 2 newspaper. This article inspired me because I connected to the parts of the article about having parent support, spending time with good peers and helping others with my education. Like Carson, my parents are also very supportive. Before a big test my parents will sometimes cut my screen time and tell me to study. Even though it seemed that they are just cutting out my fun and making me do something boring, in reality they are trying to help me be successful in life. From seeing my parents constantly work hard and wake up early in the morning to walk the dog or make our lunches, I am inspired to work harder and show them that all the hard work they put into me has paid off. Even if I don’t want to work or if I am tired I will still do my best in everything. One other thing I got from this article is that I have to be dedicated and hardworking in order to do well in life; that I have to stay focused on what I want to become and continue my education and classes in order to reach that goal. One way this article inspired me is that Carson talks about how he chose a high school that specializes in science and media because that’s what he wanted to do. Before I read this article I was deciding between two different high schools; one specializing in all the subjects I really enjoy and the others that almost all my friends are going to, but specializing in only some of the classes I enjoy. After reading this article I decided to choose the high school that specializes in what I enjoy even though I won’t see a lot of my friends, because to have a good education I have to choose what I enjoy myself and not just based on my friends’ choices. One important theme that I got from this article is to choose the right friends. Many times I’ve seen bright students start hanging out with other students that encourage them to do what is wrong and their grades start dropping. Then when they get in trouble all their “friends” abandon them. I choose friends who I can connect with and who will always push me to the next level in my education and character. My friends will stick with me even if I can’t sometimes hang out with them because I have a lot of homework just like in the article when Carson says, “that having a few close, loyal friends is better than having lots of friends who don’t completely support you.” I know that sometimes even though it may be something that I really want to do I have to put my priorities first and education is one of my top priorities. Another thing that Carson has influenced me to do is to be a good influence to my friends and not just have them influencing me; that I should be loyal to my friends and help them to improve in their education and character as well. This article has reminded me that even though it can be hard, I need to continue to balance my education with my social life so that I can relax and improve at the same time. The last thing that I have received from this article is that as I work hard now in school that later on I can help others with my education. Even though I am young and having a job seems really far away, that one day I’ll be graduating from college and having to find a job. I want to have a job like Carson, where I can help those in need. I want to study hard now so that in the future others can benefit as well. I enjoy all subjects in school which is why I’m choosing a high school that specializes in all subjects and I plan to use what I’m going to learn to help others. Whether it’s through my writing to help people gain knowledge of current events or engineering a robot to help save people, I want to help others and that is why I’m going to work hard in school and all that I do.
Niara Hicks Kingsville Middle School Montgomery County
Taneka Francis, Marketing Manager T. Rowe Price
The person I chose to write about was Taneka Francis. Three traits I admire about her are that she is hard working, determined and focused. From the article I can tell that Francis is very hard working. She said in middle school, she had to be at school from 6 a.m. to 7 p.m. because she was on the school basketball team and she did many extra-curricular activities. Because of all the things she had to do, she had to be up really late to finish her school work. She must have been a hard worker to maintain such excellent grades and still be able to do her time consuming activities. Her work ethic also impresses me because her parents got a divorce which probably made it even harder to keep up with her studies. Francis’ hard-working attitude reminds me of myself. Once in sixth grade, I had to do a project on Egyptians for social studies. I remember working so hard and long on that project that I was up until 9 every night. It took me a little longer than two weeks but I finished and I put in my best work. All that hard work paid off in the end because I got an award for the most creative project out of the entire grade and my project was displayed in the sixth grade showcase. After this experience, I learned that I have to do my best in everything because I never want to leave a bad impression on anyone. Another trait I like about Francis is her determination. In her article, she talked about how she managed to squeeze in her extra-curricular activities with school work. This is an example of her determination because she was determined to do well in school while still doing what she liked to do. She also wrote about how she wanted to get into a prestigious college when she got older, so she spent a majority of her free time studying and reading. In the end, she ended up going to the college she dreamed of. I was determined last year when I tried out for the school soccer team. I was scared to try out at first because I didn’t play on a travel team like all the other girls. After my friend talked me into it, I tried out anyway. I tried very hard to keep up with the others and did my best tricks. I didn’t make the team, but I’m very thankful for the experience. One last character trait I admire about Francis is, she is focused. In middle school, she only focused on school and didn’t get distracted with parties and such. This must have been very hard for her to do because middle and high school students are usually always on the Internet or watching TV. I will try to be more focused because I am going to high school next year so it is going to be a little harder to stay on track. Francis has inspired me to be more focused on my grades and not be influenced by the crowd. I know that in order to be successful and get a good job in the future, I must have good grades in school. I also know I should stay above the influence because if I hang out with the wrong kind of people, my reputation will be ruined and I can’t have that happen because there are so many negative stereotypes toward Black people and I have to prove to society that they aren’t true. To keep my grades up, I will stop going on the Internet as much as I do and study and read instead. To stay above the influence, I will keep hanging out with people like me who don’t drink or smoke or make bad decisions. I know that my decisions don’t only affect me, but everyone around me and I don’t want to bring shame to my family and friends.
Congratulations to the winners!!
A special thanks to everyone who submitted an essay to this year’s contest!!
May 11, 2013 - May 17, 2013, The Afro-American
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SPORTS
AFRO Sports Desk Faceoff
How Many MVP Titles Will LeBron Win?
He’s a smarter player with a better jumpshot and better basketball IQ. He takes excellent shots, makes excellent passes and is an excellent rebounder, everything an NBA player would need to run off consecutive MVPs. Green: The one thing you’re forgetting is that LeBron James isn’t the only great player in the league, Riley. What about Kevin Durant, Russell Westbrook, Stephen Curry, Derrick Rose, Chris Paul, Carmelo Anthony, etc. The NBA is buzzing with talent right now, and just handing not just one, but several MVPs to James and waving off everyone else is a huge mistake. It’s also disrespectful. His performance this postseason should make Curry a favorite to win MVP next year. The NBA rewards nice guys for great seasons and there’s not a nicer guy then Curry right now.
By Perry Green and Stephen D. Riley LeBron James doesn’t know his ceiling. After winning his fourth MVP title, James, 28, has a chance to not only match, but exceed Kareem Abdul-Jabbar’s record six MVP crowns. On Sunday May 5, James was awarded the KIA Most Valuable Player of the Year Award for his exploits this season. The award is James’ fourth in five seasons, a feat shared by NBA great Bill Russell. So where does James go from here and how many MVPs can he rack up before he calls it a career? Perry Green and Stephen D. Riley of the AFRO Sports Desk debate this question. Riley: I have James topping out at eight MVPs. At 28, James has just entered the prime of his career, and all he’s accomplished so far isn’t anything compared to what’s coming. The next three to five years will really define his career and, with Dwyane Wade diminishing, James is set to crank up his dominance. We’re witnessing greatness and obtaining another four MVP titles—or even just exceeding AbdulJabbar’s six—is going to be a cakewalk. Green: Winning four MVPs is definitely an accomplishment, but asking him to match six awards or more is a bit of a stretch. Yes, James is only 28, but he’s been in the league 10 years already. Between shouldering heavy loads in his Cleveland years and during the last two in Miami, asking him to play at an MVP-level for the next three seasons to exceed Abdul-Jabbar is a bit much, even for James. Riley: Why is it too much? We’re talking about perhaps the greatest athlete to ever lace up a pair of shoes. There’s nothing that James can’t do and we have to remember that he’s entering his prime. His game isn’t just physical anymore.
LeBron James
Riley: Correct, the NBA does reward nice guys but it also rewards its most marketable figures, and who’s more marketable than James? If you’re the NBA, you have to have a player like James winning NBA titles and MVPs and market him heavily. Plus, he actually is the best player in the league, so I’m not simply waving off the other superstars, I’m just crediting
the best playing right now. Green: Four MVPs is impressive. Six is legendary and anything past that would be unequaled. I just think it’s going to be tough to overlook all the younger talent and hand James trophies year after year. Both Anthony and Durant had strong cases to be the MVP, and I see them coming back with even stronger performances next year. It would be a great accomplishment to see James pass Kareem, but considering the mileage on his legs and the other great players around the Association, I can’t see it happening.
shop 9am-1opm fri & 9am-11pm sat. hours may vary by store. visit macys.com and click on stores for local information.
remember, mother’s day is may 12
fri ’til 1pm or sat ’til 1pm;
Cannot be used on sPeCials or suPer buys
wow! $1o off
all sale & ClearanCe aPParel and seleCt Home items
1ooff!
$
your PurCHase of $25 or more. valid 5/10 ’til 1Pm or 5/11/13 ’til 1Pm. limit one Per Customer.
Excludes: Everyday Values (EDV), specials, super buys, athletic shoes for him, her & kids, furniture, mattresses, floor coverings, rugs, electrics/electronics, cosmetics/fragrances, gift cards, jewelry trunk shows, previous purchases, special orders, selected licensed depts., special purchases, services, macys.com. Cannot be combined with any savings pass/coupon, extra discount or credit offer except opening a new Macy’s account. Dollar savings are allocated as discounts off each eligible item, as shown on receipt. When you return an item, you forfeit the savings allocated to that item. This coupon has no cash value and may not be redeemed for cash, used to purchase gift cards or applied as payment or credit to your account. Purchase must be $25 or more, exclusive of tax and delivery fees.
one day sale
saturday, may 11 open 9am-11pm preview day friday open 9am-1opm morning specials 9am-1pm both days including 15% off regular & sale prices look for the signs on select items storewide
fashion & home clearance
5o%-8o% off orig.* prices
when you take an extra 4o% off
already reduced prices
free shipping at macys.com with $99 online purchase. no promo code needed; exclusions apply.
one day sale prices in effect 5/10 & 5/11/2013. *intermediate price reductions may have been taken. OPEN A MACY’S ACCOUNT FOR EXTRA 20% SAVINGS THE FIRST 2 DAYS, UP TO $100, WITH MORE REWARDS TO COME. Macy’s credit card is available subject to credit approval; new account savings valid the day your account is opened and the next day; excludes services, selected licensed departments, gift cards, restaurants, gourmet food & wine. The new account savings are limited to a total of $100; application must qualify for immediate approval to receive extra savings; employees not eligible. N3040090A.indd 1
4/30/13 1:31 PM
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The Afro-American, May 11, 2013 - May 17, 2013
By Valerie Fraling “The most beautiful word on the lips of mankind is the word “Mother,” and the most beautiful call is the call of “my mother.” It is a word full of hope and love, a sweet and kind word coming from the depths of the heart. The mother is everything; she is our consolation in sorrow, our hope in misery, and our strength in weakness. She is the source of love, mercy, sympathy, and forgiveness…” Khalil Gibran “Own only what you can carry with you; know language, know countries, know people. Let your memory be your travel bag.” Alexander Solzhenitsyn What do you do when you get a personal call from royalty? You cancel your plans and “jump, jump, jump to it.” That’s just what I did when the Prince of Fashion Travis Winkey called inviting me to the Eubie Blake Center for the grand opening, exhibiting his 40 years as a fashion icon I jumped to it. “Fashion is not something that exists in dresses only. Fashion is in the sky, in the street; fashion has to do with ideas, the way we live, what is happening.” Coco Chanel The photos and mementos highlighting Travis’ illustrious career and his travels throughout Europe as an international fashion trendsetter covered the gallery walls depicting the different levels of his career. Radio personality Larry Young hosted the exhibit opening and received cheers when he announced that radio icon Cathy Hughes, in support of this historic occasion, gave Travis carte blanche to promote the occasion. “Above all, remember that the most important thing you can take anywhere is not a Gucci bag or French-cut jeans; it’s an open mind.” Gail Rubin Bereny Internationally acclaimed fashion model Beverly Johnson and industry insiders are celebrating Travis’ expertise in the fashion industry during Charm City International Fashion Week, a multi-cultural celebration. Visit www.charmcityinternationalfashionweek.com for event information. “Family faces are magic mirrors. Looking at people who belong to us, we see the past, present, and future.” Gail Lumet Buckley Fried chicken, fried fish and smothered cabbage were among the menu items served at the Edmonds’ Family’s Just Cousins’ 21st Mardi Gras scholarship fundraiser at the Forum Caterers. The event, chaired by Selena Redd and Dr. Jerrelle Francois and their cousins, provides college scholarships to family members. “We are family…” These families, the descendants of sharecroppers, have made it their mission to educate the future generations. “You’re my pride and joy…” Accolades honoring the recipients were applauded by friends Carroll Marcus, Ronald Brooks, Kevin Pulley, Geneva Sparks, Wattina Coles, Emma Hall, John Bryant, John Woods, Al Michaels, Carol and Willie “Crab” Foster and Louis Edmonds as they all marveled at the significance of the families’ commitment to education. “Give that lady a standing ovation…” Sonya Johnson provided the musical selections. “They’re my theme music. Every hero’s got to have some.” Jack Spade
Annapolis City Fair This Weekend
Annapolis Mayor Joshua J. Cohen extends an invitation to celebrate Annapolis at the City Dock this weekend. “This City Fair combines family fun with the introduction of nonprofit organizations that support, entertain, educate, preserve and protect our City,” Mayor Cohen said. “Come to City Dock and meet the many people and non-profit organizations that help our community.” There are games to play, ponies to ride, and crafts to create. There will be yachts, schooners and boats of all kinds to board and explore: Pride of Baltimore II will be docked at the City Fair. Watch her sail into the Harbor and dock at the Fair on Saturday around noon Marine Corps Won, a 36’ Trojan Tri Cabin CRAB, aiding sailors with disabilities, will have the Freedom 20 at the event. It’s the boat that sailed non-stop around the Americas last year. Back on dry land: Annapolis Rowing Club will have a 40’ rowing shell Annapolis Community Boating will let people climb into a canoe or kayak Hospice Cup will have a craft station so kids can design a burgee The US Coast Guard will have Coastie, the safety boat, there to say hello to all the kids Knot tying will be demonstrated at the Annapolis Sail and Power Squadron booth Also, back by popular demand are children’s swings, pony rides, Lego toy building bricks, and a moon bounce. Participants can play chess with knee-high chess pieces or test their skills with a member of the Annapolis Chess Club. The Fair is 11 a.m. to 5 p.m., May 11 and noon to 5 p.m., May 12. The event will be at City Dock and is sponsored by the City of Annapolis in cooperation with the National Sailing Hall of Fame. For more information, go to: http://bit.ly/ZNtF0r
If you’re HIV+ and think you can’t afford the medication you need, there’s something you should know.
MADAP CAN HELP. The Maryland AIDS Drug Assistance Program (MADAP) helps cover the cost of many medications for low to moderate income people in Maryland who are living with HIV/AIDS. There are exciting, new drugs in the fight against HIV/AIDS. Don’t miss out because you can’t afford them. Call MADAP today. 410-767-6535 Baltimore Area 1-800-205-6308 Toll Free in Maryland 410-333-4800 tdd MADAP is a program of the AIDS Administration Maryland Department of Health and Mental Hygiene
Erica Murray danced into Crème Restaurant to her theme song, “Living My Life Like It’s Golden” at her 40th birthday party, posed for photos on the red carpet and “set it off. ” Guests walked the red carpet and posed for photos before entering the dining area for dinner. The menu of salmon, steak, chicken and salad was ideal for a late-night party. “You make me feel like dancing.” The deejay kept us on the dance floor. My baby sister Clarissa Pritchett was visiting from Chicago and enjoyed partying with Erica’s mom and dad, Michael and Gwen Murray, Uncle Phil Murray, Robert Chambliss, Shirley Richmond, Michael Grant, Erica’s jazzy grandmother Lee-Lee and more than 200 partygoers. Happy birthday to you, Roots owner Ronnie Jackson, Tequila Sunset owner Libby Harris, Dr. Anne Emery, Victor Green, Pat Crisp, Robert Chambliss and Clarissa Pritchett. “If I could be anything in the world I would want to be a teardrop because I would be born in your eyes, live on your cheeks, and die on your lips.” Mary Stuart Masterson “If that’s not loving you…” Happy 50th wedding anniversary to Bill and Penny Brown, Happy anniversary to Dr. Vallen and Michele Emery and happy first anniversary to Lt. Gov. Anthony and Karman Brown. Heritage United Church of Christ celebrated founders, Dr. Anne Emery, Marian Alston, Vallen Emery Sr., Mildred Forehand, Lillian Green, Howard Green, Fannette Hughes, Lettie Wilson, Wayland Wilson, Edith Crew, and John Wood at the Forum Caterers in honor of the church’s 50th anniversary. “Keep the faith.” Adam Clayton Powell Members honored the founders who have transitioned and applauded members Katie Grove, Ann McKee, Johnnie McKee, Janice Mosby and Loretta Richardson for their unselfish dedication to Heritage. “Jump jump/ You should know, that ahh/ Kris Kross is not having anything today/ As we stand there totally krossed out,/ we commence to make you jump jump.” Chris Kelly RIP Wake Forest University’s senior jumper Erin Brooks is a winner after placing third in the women’s triple jump during the ACC track and field championship games at North Carolina State. Proud parents Derek and Yolanda Brooks, along with Linda James, cheered from the sidelines when Erin set Wake Forest’s school record for the triple jump. “I wonder why you can always read a doctor’s bill and you can never read his prescription.” Finley Peter Dunne Get well wishes to Frank Hocker, Beverly Boston and Pecola “Penny” Blackwell and Art Peterson as they continue to recuperate. “The life of the dead is placed in the memory of the living.” Cicero Our prayers and condolences to the families of Annie Hall, Barbara Hill, Leila Ray, Frances Finney, Gwendolyn McRae, Mary Ellis, Dr. Stephen Dwimoh, my kindergarten teacher Doris Gibson Williams and John Patterson who died at the age of 103. Happy Mother’s Day, Valerie & the Friday Night Bunch
Names for Civil Rights Foot Soldiers Memorial Requested Annapolis, Maryland- May 8, 2013- Carl O. Snowden, chairman of the non-profit community based Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Committee, announced that May 31 will be the last day that citizens can submit names of living or deceased members of the community to be inscribed on the Civil Rights Foot Soldiers Memorial, which will be dedicated on August 28. The Civil Rights Foot Soldiers Memorial honors those men and woman who attended the 1963 March on Washington. The 1963 rally drew a diverse group of citizens from Anne Arundel County and the State of Maryland including Anne Arundel County Circuit Court Clerk Robert P. Duckworth, former Annapolis mayor Roger W. Moyer, Sr., community activist Gertrude “Trudi” McGowan, Cambridge’s civil rights activist Gloria Richardson and the late Anne Arundel County NAACP leader Walter Blasingame among others. “This memorial is designed to honor the ‘foot soldiers’, whose marching feet literally changed the course of American history”, said Mr. Snowden. The $50,000 memorial is being paid for by private donations. Individuals and organizations who wish to submit names for the memorial may do so by sending an email to carl_snowden@hotmail.com or mailing them by May 31 to the Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Committee, P.O. Box 371, Annapolis, Md. 21404 The Civil Rights Foot Soldiers Memorial is part of a trilogy of memorials that the MLK Committee has created in Maryland. The other memorials are the Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Memorial located at Anne Arundel Community College and the Coretta Scott King Memorial Garden located on the Edgewater campus of Sojourner Douglass College. These memorials are the only memorials to Dr. King and Coretta Scott King in Maryland. The August 28 dedication is expected to draw hundreds of citizens and expected to be in attendance are Attorney General Douglas F. Gansler, County Executive Laura Neuman and Mayor Josh Cohen. For more information call 410-269-1524 or visit the website www.Igg.me/at/mlkannapolis.
May 11, 2013 - May 17, 2013, The Afro-American
ARTS & CULTURE
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Craig Robinson – Poised for a Breakthrough in Peeples By Krishana Davis AFRO Staff Writer When Tyler Perry’s latest film Peeples hits theaters on May 10, it will be a movie of firsts. It will be the directorial debut for Tina Gordon Chism, who wrote the screenplay for Drumline and ATL. It will be the first comedy role for ABC-TV “Scandal” star Kerry Washington, too. But for funnyman Craig Robinson, it will be his first chance to show off his acting chops in a lead role. Robinson talked with the AFRO recently about the movie and what’s next for his career. In the film, Robinson plays Wade Walker, boyfriend of Grace Peeples (Kerry Washington), who crashes the Peeples’ annual family reunion to ask for her hand in marriage. Wade quickly realizes that the Peeples are up-scale Black folks, unlike himself, but they aren’t without their own secrets. Prepping for the role of Wade, Robinson said he courted co-star Washington to get to know her better, taking her out on dates and buying her gifts. “Kerry and I we went on a couple of dates and we got to know each other,” Robinson told the AFRO. “We got to know who [Wade and Grace] were as a couple and it involved me sending her roses and stuff. It was sweet. It was me preparing to fall in love with Kerry Washington, which is not that hard.” Although Washington does not have a background in comedy, Robinson said she is a natural and can make anyone laugh. While the film took more than two and a half years to go from script to the big screen, Robinson said he can still remember what made him decide to commit to the project--Chism’s excitement about the story. “Tina Gordon Chism-- as a first time director-- she was pitching it to me and you could see the passion when she was talking about it,” said Robinson. “And the thing that closed it, she said, ‘You get to spank Kerry Washington.’” Robinson said he was also drawn to the film by the chance to work with one of his comedic idols, David Alan Grier, who he called the “father of the set.” Some movie critics, such as Travis Hopson of the Examiner, compare Peeples to a
Blue-Collar Beau Meets Bourgie Fiancee’s Family Peeples Film Review By Kam Williams
After dating for over a year, Wade Walker (Craig Robinson) is head-over-heels in love with his girlfriend, Grace (Kerry Washington). He’s ready to pop the question, and has even purchased a ring, but there’s a slight problem: he still hasn’t met her parents yet. Because of her background, Grace is a little ashamed of her beau’s modest background. After all, she’s a high-powered Manhattan attorney with a proven pedigree, while he hails from the ‘hood and makes a living by performing at children’s birthday parties. Concern about their class differences has Grace taking off alone to the tip of Long Island for a weekend getaway at her family’s waterfront mansion. Rather than sit at home licking his wounds, Wade decides to force the issue by crashing the gathering. His unexplained presence gets under the skin of Grace’s father, Judge Virgil Peebles (David Alan Grier), an overbearing patriarch with a need to control. Furthermore, Grace is afraid to tell him the truth about the nature of her relationship with Wade, which serves to establish the familiar, sitcom scenario revolving around a big lie that must be kept hidden at all costs. Written and directed by Tyler Perry protégé Tina Gordon Chism, Peeples is a fish-out-of-water comedy whose stock-in-trade is making fun of the contrast between po’ and bourgie black folks. Like popular Perry TV programs like House of Payne and Meet the Browns, the production is littered with colorful, twodimensional characters bordering on caricatures. There’s Wade’s embarrassingly-ghetto brother (Malcolm Barrett) who also shows up unannounced. He’s an oaf who puts his foot in his own mouth by suggesting that Grace’s lipstick lesbian sister (Kali Kawk) “looks too good to be gay.” Wade conveniently loses his wallet upon arriving which means he looks like a total loser when he can’t pay for anything. You get the idea. Is it funny? I suppose, provided you’re in the target demo and haven’t seen Jumping the Broom, another comedy set at a beachfront estate (on Martha’s Vineyard in that case) and pitting crass blacks from the wrong side of the tracks against the others with their noses in the air. From shoplifting to lipsynching to skinny-dipping to a sweat lodge to skeletons-in-the-closet, Peeples throws everything at the screen but the kitchen sink, and just enough sticks. An amusing, if not exactly original, African-American-oriented variation on Meet the Parents. Good HH Rated PG-13 for profanity, sexuality and drug use) Running time: 95 minutes Distributor: Lionsgate Films
Kerry Washington, Craig Robinson, and David Alan Grier (l-r) star in Peeples.
“in-law comedy that looks like someone was desperately trying to make an urban Meet the Parents.” But Robinson said he does not quite see it that way. “The premise sounds like it a little bit, yes, but once you get into it, I think it’s quite different,” he said defending the film. “We’ve got David Alan Grier, the funniest dude that’s on the planet. And then we got some wild things that happened in [the movie].” Robinson cited, for example, one his favorite scenes. He said while filming the scene when Grier’s character Virgil Peeples says, “We are Timex people, Timex,” and the entire family shows him their watches, he would burst out laughing during every take. Like many comedians, Robinson said he realized when we was a young boy he could make people laugh. He could also ad lib, something he did during story time with his father. Robinson said he contributes his big break to his role as Darryl Philbin on the hit television comedy series “The Office.” “’The Office’ has definitely been amazing for my career. It’s opened so many doors and it also makes me feel like I’m everybody’s friend when I go places,” said Robinson. Robinson said he is excited about upcoming projects. He just finished a pilot for NBC called “Mr. Robinson” based on his former career as a music teacher. And in the wings are two films that are to be released this summer-- Rapture-Palooza which is scheduled to open in theaters June 7 and This Is The End, which is to open June 12.
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IN THE CIRCUIT COURT FOR BALTIMORE CITY Case No.: 24D12000649 IN THE MATTER OF JAMEL MATTHEW JOHNSON FOR CHANGE OF NAME TO JAMEL MATTHEW TAYLOR BY AND THROUGH HIS/HER MOTHER/FATHER/ GUARDIAN FADISHA TAYLOR/ MOTHER NOTICE
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The above Petitioner has filed a Petition for Change of Name in which he/she seeks to change the name of a minor child from Jamel Matthew Johnson to Jamel Matthew Taylor. The petitioner is seeking this name change for the child for the following reasons: (Child last name currently reflects mothers maiden name want to change name to reflect that of her biological father Robert Jermaine Taylor.) Any person may file an objection the the Petition on or before the 7 day of June, 2013. The objection must be supported by an affidavit and served upon the Petitioner in accordance with Maryland Rule 1-321. Failure to file an objection or affidavit within the time allowed may result in a judgment by default or the granting of the relief sought. A copy of this notice shall be published on time in a newspaper of general circulation in the county/city at least fifteen (15) days before the deadline to file an objection. Frank M. Conaway Clerk08 11:52:58 EDT 2013 TYPESET: Wed May 5/10
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IN THE CIRCUIT COURT FOR BALTIMORE CITY Case No.: 24D12000649 IN THE MATTER OF JADA LYNETTE JOHNSON FOR CHANGE OF NAME TO JADA LYNETTE TAYLOR BY AND THROUGH HIS/HER MOTHER/FATHER/ GUARDIAN FADISHA TAYLOR/ MOTHER NOTICE
The above Petitioner has filed a Petition for Change of Name in which he/she seeks to change the name of a minor child from Jada Lynette Johnson to Jada Lynette Taylor. The petitioner is seeking this name change for the child for the following reasons: (Child last name currently reflects mothers maiden name want to change name to reflect that of her biological father Robert Jermaine Taylor.) Any person may file an objection the the Petition on or before the 7 day of June, 2013. The objection must be supported by an affidavit and served upon the Petitioner in accordance with Maryland Rule 1-321. Failure to file an objection or affidavit within the time allowed may result in a judgment by default or the granting of the relief sought. A copy of this notice shall be published on time in a newspaper of general circulation in the county/city at least fifteen (15) days before the deadline to file an objection. Frank M. Conaway Clerk 5/10
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NOTICE OF LETTING Sealed Bids or Proposals, in duplicate addressed to the Board of Estimates of the Mayor and City Council of Baltimore and marked for Sanitary Contract 915-Improvements to Primary Settling Tank No. 11 at Back River Wastewater Treatment Plant will be received at the Office of the Comptroller, Room 204, City Hall, Baltimore, Maryland until 11:00 A.M. on Wednesday, May 29, 2013. Positively no bids will be received after 11:00 A.M. Bids will be publicly opened by the Board of Estimates in Room 215, City Hall at Noon. The Contract Documents may be examined, without charge, at the Department of Public Works Service Center located on the first floor of the Abel Wolman Municipal Building, 200 N. Holliday Street, Baltimore, Maryland 21202 as of Friday, May 3, 2013 and copies may be purchased for a non-refundable cost of $50.00. Conditions and requirements of the Bid are found in the bid package. All contractors bidding on this Contract must first be prequalified by the City of Baltimore Contractors Qualification Committee. Interested parties should call 410-396-6883 or contact the Committee at 751 Eastern Avenue, Baltimore, Maryland 21202. If a bid is submitted by a joint venture (“JV”), then in that event, the document that established the JV shall be submitted with the bid for verification purposes. The Prequalification Category required for bidding on this project is E13003 Water and/or Sewer Treatment Plants & Pumping Stations. Cost Qualification Range for this work shall be $1,000,000.01 to $2,000,000.00 A “Pre-Bidding Information” session will be conducted at 8201 Eastern Avenue, Baltimore, MD 21224-Back River Wastewater Treatment Plant on May 16, 2013 at 10:00 A.M. All questions must be received in writing no later than 5:00 p.m. on May 17, 2013 Principal Items of work for this project are: 0 Demolition of the existing Primary Settling Tank (PST) 11 clarifier mechanism and drive 0 Installation of a new PST 11 clarifier mechanism and drive system 0 Installation of a new center platform and associated structures, application of a coating system to all structural steel PST 11 clarifier mechanisms, and integration of all PST 11 mechanism and drive control and monitoring capabilities into the existing Plant PCS. The MBE goal is 5% The WBE goal is 3% SANITARY CONTRACT 915
CITY OF BALTIMORE DEPARTMENT OF PUBLIC WORKS BUREAU OF WATER AND WASTEWATER NOTICE OF LETTING Sealed Bids or Proposals, in duplicate addressed to the Board of Estimates of the Mayor and City Council of Baltimore and marked for Stormwater Contract 7762-Rehabilitation and Replacement of Highlandtown Stormwater Pump Station will be received at the Office of the Comptroller, Room 204, City Hall, Baltimore, Maryland until 11:00 A.M. on Wednesday, May 29, 2013. Positively no bids will be received after 11:00 A.M. Bids will be publicly opened by the Board of Estimates in Room 215, City Hall at Noon. The Contract Documents may be examined, without charge, at the Department of Public Works Service Center located on the first floor of the Abel Wolman Municipal Building, 200 N. Holliday Street, Baltimore, Maryland 21202 as of Friday, May 3, 2013 and copies may be purchased for a non-refundable cost of $75.00. Conditions and requirements of the Bid are found in the bid package. All contractors bidding on this Contract must first be prequalified by the City of Baltimore Contractors Qualification Committee. Interested parties should call 410-396-6883 or contact the Committee at 751 Eastern Avenue, Baltimore, Maryland 21202. If a bid is submitted by a joint venture (“JV”), then in that event, the document that established the JV shall be submitted with the bid for verification purposes. The Prequalification Category required for bidding on this project is E13003 Water and/or Sewer Treatment Plants and Pumping Station, and F16000 Electrical Cost Qualification Range for this work shall be $1,000,000.01 to $5,000,000.00 A “Pre-Bidding Information” session will be conducted at the 3rd Floor Large Conference Room, Abel Wolman Municipal Building on May 16, 2013 at 10:00 A.M. Site visit to follow immediately after “Pre-Bidding Information” session. Principal Item of work for this project are: o Interior demolition and replacement of Stormwater and sump pump systems as well as piping, valves, pump controls and other accompanying appurtenances o Removal and replacement of existing transformers and the electrical power distribution system o Upgrade and modification to the building roof, heating and ventilation systems, as well as concrete/masonry structural repairs The MBE goal is 16% The WBE goal is 3% STORMWATER CONTRACT 7762
APPROVED: Bernice H. Taylor Clerk, Board of Estimates APPROVED: Alfred H. Foxx Director of Public Works
APPROVED: Bernice H. Taylor Clerk, Board of Estimates APPROVED: Alfred H. Foxx Director of Public Works
CITY OF BALTIMORE DEPARTMENT OF PUBLIC WORKS BUREAU OF WATER AND WASTEWATER
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May 11, 2013 - May 17, 2013, The Afro-American
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LEGAL NOTICES
CITY OF BALTIMORE DEPARTMENT OF PUBLIC WORKS BUREAU OF WATER AND WASTEWATER NOTICE OF LETTING Sealed Bids or Proposals, in duplicate addressed to the Board of Estimates of the Mayor and City Council of Baltimore and marked for Sanitary Contract 906-Improvements to the Sanitary Sewers in the West Baltimore Region of the High Level Sewershed Collection System, Sewer Rehabilitation will be received at the Office of the Comptroller, Room 204, City Hall, Baltimore, Maryland until 11:00 A.M. on Wednesday, June 12, 2013. Positively no bids will be received after 11:00 A.M. Bids will be publicly opened by the Board of Estimates in Room 215, City Hall at Noon.The Contract Documents may be examined, without charge, at the Department of Public Works Service Center located on the first floor of the Abel Wolman Municipal Building, 200 N. Holliday Street, Baltimore, Maryland 21202 as of Friday, May 10, 2013 and copies may be purchased for a non-refundable cost of $100.00. Conditions and requirements of the Bid are found in the bid package. All contractors bidding on this Contract must first be prequalified by the City of Baltimore Contractors Qualification Committee. Interested parties should call 410-396-6883 or contact the Committee at 751 Eastern Avenue, Baltimore, Maryland 21202. If a bid is submitted by a joint venture (“JV”), then in that event, the document that established the JV shall be submitted with the bid for verification purposes. The Prequalification Category required for bidding on this project is B02552Sewer Construction or G90099-Lining Sewers and Drains via Curedin-Place Pipe Lining Cost Qualification Range for this work shall be $15,000,000.01 to $20,000,000.00 A “Pre-Bidding Information” session will be conducted at 300 Abel Wolman Municipal Building Conference Room, 200 Holliday Street, Baltimore, MD 21202 on May 21, 2013 at 10:00 A.M. The CCTV videos of the sewers included in this project will be made available for viewing/coping to interested parties at the office of Dewberry Consultants, LLC, 3106 Lord Baltimore Drive, Suite 110, Baltimore, MD 21244, TEL: 410-645-1400. Refer to IB-9 for additional details. Principal Item of work for this project are: o Repair and rehabilitation of existing sanitary sewers (8-inch through 52-inch) and sewer house connections using Cure-in-Place Pipe (CIPP) lining, Cure-in-Place short-length sleeve spot repairs, and open-cut point repairs. o Cleaning and Closed Circuit Television (CCTV) Sonar re-inspection of some sewerlines. o Repair and rehabilitation of existing manholes which includes but not limited to interior coating Cementitious or Epoxy), steps replacement, adjusting and/or replacing manhole frames and covers and benches, replacing manholes, and installing new manholes. The MBE goal is 17% The WBE goal is 16% SANITARY CONTRACT 906 APPROVED: Bernice H. Taylor Clerk, Board of Estimates APPROVED: Alfred H. Foxx TYPESET: Wed May 08 11:53:51 EDT 2013 Director of Public Works PUBLIC INFORMATION OPEN HOUSE MEETING For the WEST BALTIMORE MARC STATION ENHANCEMENTS AND ADA IMPROVEMENTS To be held at the Lockerman Bundy Elementary School 301 North Pulaski Street, Baltimore MD 21223 On Wednesday, May 22, 2013, 6 PM to 8 PM Project Description The Maryland Transit Administration (MTA) of the Maryland Department of Transportation will hold a Public Information Open House meeting to present design options to improve the West Baltimore MARC Station. The proposed design options are upgrades to improve access to the MARC Station platform. The following elements are included in the design: high level platforms, new elevators, new community access points, new sidewalks, new lighting, security measures, and landscaping. Design plans for these improvements will be presented for public review and comment. Walk-ins are welcome, but as a courtesy, please reserve your attendance to make certain refreshments and seating are available for all participants. For more information and to RSVP, contact: George Hill, Project Manager, MTA Office of Planning 6 St. Paul Street, Baltimore MD 21202 TYPESET: Wed 410-767-3768, May 08 11:50:35 EDT 2013 ghill@mta.maryland.gov CITY OF BALTIMORE DEPARTMENT OF PUBLIC WORKS SPECIAL NOTICE The prequalification category and MBE/WBE goals for City of Baltimore Department of Public Works Water Contract 1251-Repaving Utility Cuts at Various Locations, has been revised. The prequalification category required for bidding on this project is A02602: Bituminous Concrete Paving. The MBE goal for this project is 20% MBE and 5% WBE.
afro. com
CAREER CORNER
TYPESET: Wed May 08 11:50:07 EDT 2013
ANNE ARUNDEL COUNTY CAREER OPPORTUNITIES Assistant Personnel Officer Correctional Program Specialist I Director of Inspections & Permits Economic Development Director Fire Chief Fuel Systems Technician Planner III Planning Technician II Police Officer Utilities Team Manager Visit our website at www.aacounty.org for additional information and to apply on-line. You may use the Internet at any Anne Arundel County library, or visit our office at 2660 Riva Road in Annapolis. AEO/DF/SFE
To advertise in the AFRO Call 410-554-8200 Free Service Obituaries are printed for free by the AFRO-American Newspapers. Send funeral program and picture to: Obituaries, The Baltimore Afro-American Newspapers, 2519 N. Charles Street, Baltimore, Maryland 21218
OBITUARIES Clarence H. Harrell, 84 Elnora W. Barber, 79 Eastern Stainless Steel Corporation
Clarence Harrell departed this life on Feb. 13, 2013, after a brief illness. He was born 84 years ago on Jan. 5, 1929 in Southhampton County, Va., the beloved son of the late Clarence and Carrie Harrell. He was educated in Southhampton County, Va., and moved to Baltimore, where on March 18, 1951 he met and married the love of his life, Lillie Mae McFadden, and from this union produced eight children. CLARENCE H. HARRELL In February 1972, Clarence Harrell joined Central Baptist Church where he served under the fine leadership of the Rev. Dr. Montague Brackett followed by the Rev. Lorenzo Long, and current pastor, the Rev. Rodney T,. Morton. Brother Harrell was a dedicated usher for many years, as well as a faithful Sunday School member. During his early years, Mr. Harrell enjoyed his service as a dedicated Mason. He was employed for 30 years at Eastern Stainless Steel Corporation, until his retirement in 1986. He also worked at Shoppers Food Market after retirement for a few years as well which he enjoyed greatly. It is written that in order to gain friends, one must first show himself to be friendly, and this Mr. Harrell did every day of his life. He was kind, thoughtful, giving, loving, and was endowed with a pleasing smile and a warm heart. He gave of himself unselfishly, but never deprived his family, nor himself. Mr. Harrell was one of the best dressed gentlemen you would ever meet, when he stepped out; he was always admired. He was an avid lover of golf, and played for many years. He was also a consistent gym club member and went faithfully, where he met and bonded with many good friends, especially his favorite breakfast club members, which he spoke of often. Mr. Harrell was loved by all who knew him, and precious memories shall remain with all who loved him, especially his eight children; eldest daughter Valerie McFadden, son Nathaniel Harrell (who preceded him in death), Lillian Tyner, Patricia Ann Gladney, Darlene Harrell, Doreen Harrell, Dwight Harrell, Diana Harrell; sons-in-law, James Tyner, Kim Edward Gladney; his beloved sisters, Carrie Thomas of Baltimore, and Naomi Robinson of Manhattan, N.Y.; five grandchildren, Shantelle Evans-McDonald, Darren Tyner, Kyonna Wallace, Joseph Faison and Antwon Wallace; nineteen great grandchildren; one great grandson; and a host of nieces, nephews, cousins, friends and also including two special friends, Gerry Hemingway and Artis Fields.
Isaac Brown, 65 Newspaper Distributor
Isaac Brown was born on Dec. 29, 1947 in Darlington, S.C. to Bessie and Roosevelt Brown. On Dec. 12, 2012, Isaac was called home to God in “His Kingdom in Heaven.” In his early years, Isaac was educated through the Darlington School System and later became a graduate of Frederick Douglass High School in Baltimore, Md. Isaac enlisted in the U.S. Army on ISAAC BROWN May 3, 1968. He was honorably discharged as a sergeant on May 1, 1974. On Oct. 31, 1970, Isaac married the love of his life, Lizzane, who was called home in 1991. He never remarried. Isaac Brown held various positions in his 64 years of life. He started out as a manager of B. Green and Company, a city employee through the Baltimore City Council, videographer for the Bethel AME Services, a courier for the Afro-American, Wall Street Journal, Baltimore Sun and the Washington Post newspapers. But his most important job was being a true servant of God as well as being a great father. Isaac was dedicated to the teaching of the Lord. Throughout his life, he was an avid member of several churches including: New Psalmist Baptist Church, Bethel A.M.E. and Empowerment Temple just to name a few. Isaac was a sincere, kind and giving man. He was known for his generosity when it came to his friends, family, neighbors and even strangers on the street. Isaac had a heart of gold and was a true inspiration to all that were blessed to have known him. His strength, guidance, perseverance and his overall self image will be gone by never forgotten. He is survived by his six children, Isaac Jr., Ike, Darlene, Eileen, Charlene and Brian. In addition, he is survived by his thirteen grandchildren, Darneisha, Brittany, Iesha, Seven, Zoe, Tatayanna, Isaiah, Malcolm, Trinity, Kenny, Destini, Haileigh and Halo. As well as being survived by his extended family, Anthony, his son-in-law; Shannon, daughter-in-law, and a host of family and friends.
Medical Technologist
Elnora Blanche Woody Barber, born Oct. 4, 1934 in Roxboro, N.C., entered eternal rest on Feb. 23, 2013. She was the first of four daughters born to Elma and Gaither Woody. The family relocated to East Baltimore in the early 1940’s. Elnora was baptized by Rev. Matthew Wilkerson at Zion Baptist Church located on the corner of Eager and Bond Streets. ELNORA W. BARBER She graduated from Dunbar High School with the class of 1953. She furthered her education by attending Morgan State College (University) graduating in 1957 with a Bachelor’s Degree in Science. While at Morgan, she met her love Leroy F. Barber Jr. whom she married on May 3, 1959. From this union they had two children, Roderick D. Barber and Pamela B. McKeithen. Elnora began her career at Mt. Wilson Hospital as a laboratory technician, before moving on to Johns Hopkins Hospital as the lead Medical Technologist in the Oncology Department. She retired from Johns Hopkins Hospital after 35 years of service. Deeply rooted in her Christian faith and love of her church, Elnora remained very active in Zion Baptist Church until her health declined. Elnora loved being surrounded by her children, grandchildren, family members and friends. Her warm, friendly, loving personality and pleasant smile endeared her to all persons she met. She was an avid reader, loved watching all sports, particularly the Super Bowl Champion Ravens, enjoyed traveling, playing bridge and making delicious pound and cheesecakes. She was also very active in the alumni association of Dunbar’s class of 1953. She was preceded in death by her husband Leroy F. Barber Jr. and her sister Marlene Brown. She leaves to cherish her memory: two children, Roderick D. Barber and Pamela B. McKeithen, five grandchildren: Brittnei N. McKeithen, Lauren J. McKeithen, Roderick D. Barber II, Ross D. Barber and Raquel D. Barber, two sisters: Wynola Cunningham and Mary H. Woody, son-in-law, Richie McKeithen, daughter-in-law, Shawn Barber, brother and sisters-in-law, Sterling Cunningham, Dorothy Oldham, Lillian Scott, and Florence Barber, several nieces, nephews and devoted friends: Waetina Coles, Anna Black, Naon Prater and Mary Buster.
Anderson L. Lyles Jr., 60 Visual Technician/Payroll Clerk
Anderson Oliver Lyles Jr., 60, died on Jan. 18, 2013 at the V. A. Hospital on Green Street in downtown Baltimore. Heart disease was the underlying cause of death. Mr. Lyles is survived by many family members and friends. Mr. Lyles was born in Baltimore. In his youth, he was a member of Bethel A.M.E. Church. He joined New Psalmist Baptist Church several years ago,the last church with which he was affiliated. Mr. Lyles attended public schools here in Baltimore, went to college here and was employed here in many capacities, including audio visual technician (one of his first jobs) and Senior Payroll Clerk. His jobs as Record Information Manager and Property Disposition Management, both at Johns Hopkins applied Physics Laboratory, were jobs which he thoroughly enjoyed and in which he excelled. He received numerous awards and citations from that particular employment. Mr. Lyles was also a highly decorated U.S. Army serviceman who served his country from 1973 to 1991, first in South Korea, later in the Reserves in the Desert Storm and Operation Desert Shield initiatives. He received the Army Service Ribbon and the National Defense Service Medal, among others. After his death, Mr. Lyles, through Living Legacy Foundation, donated his corneas, some tissues, skin and bone marrow to save many others in need. Even in death, he was awarded a certificate and plaque lauding him for his generous contribution which would enable dozens of people to lead normal and health lives. For his great contribution, we are proud of our Lyles, Uncle June, Rat, June, Junebug and Anderson-as we called him. At his request, Mr. Lyles was cremated. Arrangements were handled by Joseph H. Brown Jr. Funeral Home. A celebration of Mr. Lyles’ life will be held in the near future.
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The Afro-American, May 11, 2013 - May 11, 2013