Baltimore Afro-American Newspaper August 3 2013

August 3, 2013 - August 3, 2013, The Afro-American A1 $1.00

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Volume 121 No. 52

AUGUST 3, 2013 - AUGUST 9, 2013

Baltimore’s Plan to Avoid 4:13 a.m. at the Corner Becoming the Next Detroit A Special Delivery Birth:

of Calvert & Franklin

By Blair Adams AFRO Staff Writer

Three days past her due date, a Baltimore mother-tobe gave birth in the front seat of her SUV to her second child, while she and her husband attempted to make it to the hospital in the early hours of July 27.

Wendy and Gerard Talley, both 32, were enjoying a typical Friday evening at their Waverley home in East Baltimore. Wendy Talley, a registered nurse, said her husband was taking the trash out and had just fed their cat.

Continued on A3

INSIDE A8 Closed Meeting Over Harbor Point Deal

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As Detroit lurched into the biggest municipal financial bankruptcy in American history, mostly from an estimated $3.5 billion in immediate debt it couldn’t pay to current and future retirees, the question in Baltimore and countless other U.S. cities is blunt-- and fretful: Could it happen here?

Yes, according to municipal finance experts. But Baltimore

Photo by Alexis Taylor

Proud parents Gerard and Wendy Talley delivered their son, Noah, together in an SUV on July 27.

officials say that a proposed switch from the traditional retirement system to a 401(k)-styled plan will help increase the economic viability of the city.

“Our main goal is preserving and fortifying the defined benefits pension plan for existing retirees and existing city employees and providing reasonable benefits for new employees while balancing the need for affordability on the part of the city,” said Baltimore City’s Director of Finance Harry Black.

The proposal is being advanced in the nick of time, Maintaining the Employees’ Retirement System cost the city $17.7 million in 2003 and rose exponentially to $77.9 million in 2012, Black said.

By moving to the new retirement plan, city officials forecast savings of $1 million in 2014, and increasing savings each year until 2022, when the savings are expected to reach $7.8 million.

Under the current proposal, which has to be approved by the City Council, new city hires will be expected to contribute 5 percent of their income to their retirement accounts, which the city will match up to Continued on A4

Civil Rights Leaders Meet with Obama on Voting Rights

By Freddie Allen NNPA Washington Correspondent

The Voting Rights Act is down, but not out, and civil rights leaders joined President Obama and Attorney General Eric H. Holder, Jr. at the White House July 29 to discuss renewed efforts in the fight against voter discrimination.

In a statement released after the meeting, Al Sharpton, civil rights activist and president of the National Action Network said: “Today the United States President and Attorney General met with a broad coalition of civil rights and voting rights leaders to assure us that they will continue to work with us to protect every American’s right to vote.”

Sharpton continued: “We had a great alarm when the Supreme Court ruled against Section 4 of the Voting Rights Act but after meeting with the

President and the Attorney General we were assured that the Voting Rights Act may be wounded but it is not dead. It is not even critically wounded; it can and will be revived.”

Last month, the Supreme Court struck down Section 4 of the Voting Rights Act of 1965, effectively neutering what many called the crown jewel of the Civil Rights Movement. Section 4 required all or parts of 15 states with track records of voter discrimination to get “pre-clearance” from the Justice Department or a federal court for any changes they wanted to make to voting laws. Within hours after the Supreme Court ruling in Shelby County v.

Holder, a number of state lawmakers from previously covered states announced plans to move forward with restrictive voting laws that disproportionately affect minorities, the elderly and

young voters.

Texas is one of those states.

due to redistricting plans that disproportionately affected Continued on A4

Photo by NNPA

Al Sharpton and other voting rights advocates speak with press after meeting with President Obama.

National Urban League Annual Convention

Fifty Years Later, Jobs Dominate Civil Rights

By George E. Curry NNPA Editor-in-Chief

The Lone Star State has a history of voting discrimination, the latest entry

disproportionately limit the ability of African-Americans to gain employment.

“I need you to make sure that your state has a law that says very clearly that you cannot use the fact

PHILADELPHIA – One of the primary goals of the 1963 March on Washington was finding or creating jobs for Blacks. At a panel discussion during the annual “…employers are increasingly convention of the National using measures that have nothUrban League, jobs was mentioned more frequently ing to do with job performance than any other topic as leaders discussed the famous that disproportionately limit the march 50 years ago and an ability of African-Americans to upcoming one planned for gain employment.”

Aug. 24.

— Barbara Arnwine Barbara Arnwine, president and executive director of the Lawyers’ Committee that somebody has been arrested as a for Civil Rights Under Law, said reason not to employ them,” she told employers are increasingly using convention delegates. “A mere arrest measures that have nothing to tells you nothing.” do with job performance that Continued on A4

Eastside Church Simulates Funerals to Stop Violence

By Blair Adams AFRO Staff Writer One East Baltimore pastor has taken matters into his own hands and is staging funerals in an attempt to show young adults what it means to take a life.

Amidst the backdrop of street violence that is gripping the city, the Rev. Drew Kyndall Ross, of Resurrection Church, led his first simulated funeral, on July 27.

“I wanted to send a message to the community that the change we need starts with our brothers and sisters in these neighborhoods,” Ross told the AFRO. The idea of showing the community a simulated funeral first started with a conversation Ross had with a colleague. He said he wanted to capture the attention of people who came to the event. “Sometimes you Continued on A4

Copyright © 2013 by the Afro-American Company

Courtesy Photo

Men pull casket from hearse

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The Afro-American, August 3, 2013 - August 9, 2013

NATION & WORLD Advice Offered to Parents on How to Protect Black Youth

A new 80-page report purports to educate Black parents on how best to protect their children from violence in the wake of the shooting death of Trayvon Martin and the recent acquittal of George Zimmerman, his admitted killer.

Kenneth Love, a former police officer, prison and juvenile correctional officer, U. S. Army sergeant, and former regional director for the Boys & Girls Clubs of America, said he used his diverse experience to create the report, which is the latest of several safety and security reports he has published for children and females.

“In addition to my work in law enforcement, as a father myself, I readily understand what parents and, particularly, African-American parents are currently experiencing, in terms of safety, security, the well-being of their children,

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and where to turn next, so to speak, as a result of the tragic situation of Trayvon Martin,” Love said in a statement. “This situation could not have hit closer to home for parents of teenage boys. And, I am confident that this report will provide an enormous amount of advice, tips, and suggestions [that] most parents, who have not been involved in law Facebook.com enforcement or the penal Kenneth Love system, will appreciate.”

The report, Save Our Black/African American Children, provides information on how to best protect AfricanAmerican children from potential killers and abductors.

It also contains a number of safety and security informational websites, contact numbers, and numerous articles by guest authors. It also includes bonus safety and self-protection articles specifically for African-American females as well as a link to a brief video on child abduction and kidnapping.

“Make NO mistake…our Black/African American children are being targeted directly and are at serious risk,” Love said on his promotional website about his reasons for writing the report. “Not at risk of being hurt or killed by some foreign terrorists in a faraway unfamiliar land, but by individuals who are supposed to be their fellow citizens… the domestic terrorists who reside in their own country.”

For more information and to obtain the report, visit: http://www.1waypr.com/sobaac.html The report is available for $5. The fee is “to cover my time and costs,” Love said in a news release.

Voting Rights Erosion Threatened by N.C. GOP Bill

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Legislation that was hurriedly revised by Republicans in the North Carolina legislature would make extensive changes to the state’s voting laws that could marginalize certain groups, voting advocates say.

House Bill 589, which initially would have required voters to present photo identification before casting a ballot, sat stagnant for three months after the House approved it.

Then, in a sudden flurry of activity over the last few days, Senate Republicans piled on several substantive alterations to voter registration, early voting and campaign financing among other modifications, before the Senate Rules Committee passed the bill on a hasty voice vote July 23, according to the Associated Press.

Activists say the contents of the legislation and the fact that Republicans introduced and pushed the changes through in the last week of the session raises troubling questions.

The new omnibus bill adds a slew of additional provisions. It shortens early voting by a week, eliminates same-day registration, increases restrictions on provisional voting, ends pre-registration for high school students before

their 18th birthday and prohibits counties from extending early voting hours on the Saturday before Election Day to accommodate emergencies, such as long lines.

The measure also increases maximum individual campaign contributions from $4,000 to $5,000, it repeals publicly funded elections for judicial races, and weakens disclosure requirements showing who pays for political ads.

As per the bill’s original intent, voters would have to present a government-issued photo ID at the polls and student IDs issued by the state’s public universities and community colleges would not be accepted. It also would allow any registered voter of a county to challenge the eligibility of another voter, it eliminates straight-ticket voting and outlaws paid voter registration drives.

Supporters of the legislation say it is necessary to combat voter fraud, which they say is widespread and usually undetected.

But Democrats and nonpartisan voting activists say GOP claims of voter fraud are often exaggerated and have little basis in fact. Instead, they claim, the measures are often aimed at suppressing the votes of African Americans, Hispanics, the young, the elderly and the disabled.

North Carolina’s House Bill 589, which is expected to be passed by the majority-Republican Senate, is the latest in a series of Republican-led efforts to suppress voter turnout, activists say. And such efforts are likely to balloon in number in the wake of the Supreme Court’s decision last month that stymies enforcement provisions of the Voting Rights Act that were meant to protect against racial discrimination in the election process.

Trayvon Martin Dominates Lead Hearing of Congressional Caucus on Black Males

Tracy Martin, Trayvon Martin’s father, vowed to continue fighting for his son and for other “Black and brown” boys in America during the inaugural hearing of the Congressional Caucus on Black Men and Boys July 24.

A 17-year-old unarmed Trayvon Martin was killed after being stalked by George Zimmerman, a neighborhood watch volunteer, and shot during a tussle with the 29-yearold.

“We’ve taken that negative energy and we’re trying to turn it into a positive,” Martin said of his son’s death. “A lot of people will tell you that nothing positive can come out of death but I disagree and I disagree wholeheartedly because it is what we can do tomorrow as a nation, as a people, to stop someone else’s child from being killed.”

Later, Martin said he hopes his son’s legacy is a positive turnaround in some of the troubling issues facing American society.

The forum was titled “The Status of Black Males: Ensuring Our Boys Mature into Strong Men.” It was the first for the caucus formed in March by Rep. Eleanor Holmes Norton (D-D.C.) and Rep. Danny Davis (D-Ill.).

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Trayvon's father Tracy Martin, family attorney Benjamin Crump and mother Sybrina Fulton.

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The Afro-American, August 3, 2013 - August 3, 2013

August 3, 2013 - August 9, 2013, The Afro-American

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Beyoncé Lands in D.C. During Her ‘Mrs. Carter World Tour’

Then, at 9:15 p.m. as her fans roared, the signature “B” curtain appared and Beyoncé, the Queen, stood center stage in a white beaded leotard, hair was slightly curled and makeup fierce.

All hail the queen, the Queen B, that is.

In perfect diva fashion, she surveyed her audience as the After months of traveling the country, the “Mrs. Carter deafening applause reached an almost unbearable pitch.

World Tour,” the most recent concert tour by singer/dancer/ “Welcome, D.C.!” she said, sending the crowded-tosongwriter/actress Beyoncé, finally stopped in Washington D.C. capacity arena into a frenzy. “How y’all doin’?” for two sold-out performances on July 29 and 30 at the Verizon Were they ready to have some fun, she asked, receiving a Center in Northwest Washington. deafening response.

November 1, 2008 - November 7, 2008, The Washington Afro-American A3 At the July 29 concert, Beyoncé, 31, also known as “Queen “Ladies, who runs the world?” she asked, launching into her B,” dazzled her way through a well-choreographed two-hour 2011 hit, “Run the World.” performance which featured renditions of her most popular Beyoncé lit up the arena. Radiant and fast-moving, she songs and nine costume changes, empowering girls and women commanded the stage in front of an audience of 10,000, fromenticing a neighbor a suspifliersmoves, bearingtaking his photoand menabout the way only she can. singing, strutting and dancing herposted trademark the cious vehicle. The manstood noticed graph around city. On Thousands of fans for as long as eight hours in a line crowd from the highest heights with songs likethe “Single Ladies,” the vehicle while walking his Sunday, Jennifer Hudson asked that around Verizon Center, waiting in almost and “Love on Top” to mesmerizedforsilence when she dog. wrapped According to the the Chicago the public’s helpperformed in finding breathless anticipation to see the highly acclaimed “Mrs. Carter ballads like “Flaws and All.” Tribune, the boy had been shot her nephew. In her MySpace multiple timesTour” in theshow. back seat blog, she thanked fans and supShow World Beyoncé is married to rapper/mogul For those into fashion, they were treated to a second show. of the vehicle.

SUV, regisporters for their prayers Shawn “Jay-Z”The Carter.

Her outfits included a sleek red dress, a black leotard withand a tered to Hudson’s murdered offered a $100,000 reward to beaded baseball cap, a blue long-sleeve sparkling jumpsuit—all There were little girls, escorted by their mothers; giggly brother, was towed with the anyone who returned the boy hugging her signature curves. teenagers who had been dropped off by their anxious parents; boy’s body inside and is being alive. processed by evidence Since the investigation, Audience members sang. They danced.

They screamed. young women dressedtechnia la Beyoncé in short skirts, tight ciansand andstiletto workers.

The career body women dressed to the nines in Hudson – who gained stardom At one point, performing on two stages, she catapulted tops heels; was later removed and taken to appearing on “American herself from one to the other, overafter a crowd of screaming fans in fabulous sundresses and funky ensembles; and couples, some the Cook County Medical Idol,” and then won an the standing section. as old as the performers parents.

Examiner’s office.

Academy Award for her role in “I love you, Beyoncé!” the section screamed.

The 8 p.m.

Hudson and show other started family with opening act Luke James, one the movie Dreamgirls – has members arrived at the who Medical stayedwith out her of the public She culminated the two-hour show ballad, “Ieye.

Was of her former dancers, hit big with “I.O.U.” Examiner’s office mid-afterThe Chicago Tribune reportHere.”

As frenzied fans stood waitingJulian for Queen B to take the King, Jennnifer Hudson’s nephew. noon to identify the body. ed that a parade of cars moved stage, played paying homage to her accomplishments.

Yes, she was.

Given videos the choice between lookslowly past her family’s home

By Blair Adams AFRO Staff Writer

Jennifer Hudson and Relatives Identify Body of Her Slain Nephew

By Alan King AFRO Staff Writer Jennifer Hudson and other relatives positively identified

sport-utility vehicle sought in connection with the murder of Hudson’s mother and brother.

The white, 1994 Chevrolet Suburban with Illinois license

ing directly at the body or viewing it on a wall-mounted

A spokesman for the office told the newspaper that Hudson

video screen, the family chose the latter. According to the Tribune, Hudson said, “Yes, that’s him.”

“remained strong for her famibeing convicted of attempted ly” and was clearly its leader. murder and vehicular hijack“She held hands with her famiing. Cook County records show ly,” the spokesman said. “It that he pleaded guilty to both was obviously a very emotional charges in 1999. He was also moment.” convicted in 1998 for possessign but I didn’t see what it The boy – the son of Julia sion of a stolen motor vehicle. said.”

Hudson, Jennifer’s sister – had He was released from prison in Some of people who been missing since Friday, 2006 after serving seven years encountered himfound wereJulian’s not when a relative for the attempted murder and grandmother, Darnell receptive to his message, Batty car hijacking charges.

Donerson, 57, and his uncle, The boy remained missing said.

Jason Hudson, 29, shot to death through a long weekend in “They would scream orin in his grandmother’s home which police and volunteers start yelling ‘Beyonce!’ or the 7000 block of South Yale Avenue. pictures of her in front showing An Amber Alert – a desigof him,” she said. nation for high-risk missing While many of the young children – was issued Friday Wade Montgomery, metro area leader of Pray at the concert goers poked fun after Julian was discovered Pump Movement holds a sign encouraging Michelle missing after the murders. and laughed, Twyman said Police arrested Obama not to attend the Beyoncé concert. Rocky he believes thatWilliam his group’s Balfour, the missing boy’s step- Twyman, founder of Pray at the Pump holds a sign about message was received by father and estranged husband demons possessing Beyoncé and Jay-Z. parents. of the mothers of Julia, Many at his girlfriend’s and fathersapartment who came with their Southside several hours after thehim murders. says ‘When two or three are gathered together children told they were Balfour’s mother, Michele, hasdressed young in my name I will be with them and I will bless concerned about the scantily told reporters that her son had them.’ We saw God bless us during Pray at the women both in the audience and on the stage nothing to do with the slayings. during the performance.

Balfour remains a suspect in Jason Hudson Pump Movement, when whenever we prayed,

the murders but is being held in jail for parole violation after

Monday morning, past the news vans, reporters and curious onlookers.

Neighbors stood quietly and reflected on the violence.

In front of the Hudson’s home, men in heavy jackets and hooded sweatshirts came to kiss the twin white crosses baring the names of Donerson and Jason.

“Everybody is sick of going through stuff like this,” Artisha West, a former resident of the area told the Tribune. “We all have to stick together. All these young children are dying, and for what?”

Handful of Concerned Citizens Picket “She held hands with her family.

It was obviously a very emotional moment.”

Beyoncé’s Verizon Center Concert Courtesy Photos

Jennifer Hudson and her mom, Darnell Donerson who was killed, as well as her brother, Jason. the body of her 7-year-old nephew Monday, just hours after his body was found in a

plate X584859 was found on Chicago’s West Side after police received a 7 a.m. call

They Warn that Songstress is a Demon

ACORN Fights Back

a devout Christian, came to public attention several years ago when he founded the Pray at the Pump Movement, a group that held prayer D.C.-area activist Rocky Twyman had vigils at local gas stations praying that prices one message for the thousands of people he would drop. wonder Obama’s campaign is Dallas Cowboys players

By Alan King encountered July 29 in front of theand Verizon He is a regularNo fixture in front of the White trying to distance him from the Tony Romo and Terrell Owens, AFRO Staff Writer Center: House and on Capitol Hill, where he has held group, saying, “Barack Obama among the names submitted to Beyoncé Knowles is John a demon and if you protest everything from the Never Organized with ACORN.” election officials. dozens of vigils to Presidential candidate But Obama’s tiesand to ACORN run Hurd workers, who President McCain’s on ACORN – attend her attack concert, you are consorting withsaid thosefight between Obama Congress long and deep. He taught classes were doing those things without Associated Community evil. to Black unemployment. for ACORN. They even endorsed ACORN’s knowledge or permisOrganization for Reform Now – The mission started earlier thatsion, day were whenfired.

Twyman said him he decided to hold the protests for President. confirms the success of the Twyman gathered at the White House“The withevidence at the White because Butand nowVerizon ACORNCenter is in trouble. that has sur- House organization, the head of the so far showsof they group says. several other citizens who believe faced that Beyoncé thefaked urgency of hisReporter: message.There are at least the 11 investigations formsObama to get paid for work “This is testimony to the work is demonic to urge First Lady Michelle “We they believe that this couple isacross virtually country involving thousands of didn’t do, not to stuff ballot we’ve done and success we’ve to distance the of singer.boxes.”

Top-selling our youth,” Twyman said. ACORN “If you potentially fraudulent ACORN, destroying she said, is the had,” Maudeherself Hurd, from president performer Beyoncé came to the District gothe onperpetrathe Internet, you’ll see stories about how forms. victim to of fraud, not ACORN, said in an interview Massive voter with the AFRO. perform shows on July 29 and Julytor30ofatit.the they’re both part of Announcer: the Illuminati and you can said the only things use offraud.

And thetriangle Obama campaign “WhenVerizon this attack started, we singer Hurd District’s Center.

The and her see Jay-Z’s the Satanic symbol bogus are the charges thempaid more than $800,000 to an had just announced that we had husband, realAnd name whenorg he performs.

Jay-Z front evenfor declared selves. factcheck.

ACORN get out himself the vote registered rapper/mogul 1.3 million newJay-Z, vot- whose isers,” Shawn Carter, havejust a daughter, Blue Ivy. to be God by referring agrees. efforts.to himself as Jehovah, she said.

“That’s to say It concluded, “Neither Pressuring issue that risky that someone’s running They are known to be scared friends of the Obamas. and we don’t think that this banks is thetoimage ACORN nor its employees have voter fraud. because of ACORN’s success.”

Carrying signs with slogans such as “Jay-Z our young peopleloans. need Nationwide to be glorifying.” been found guilty of, or even Barack Obama. Bad judgment.

McCain, who is running for and Beyoncé Are Possessedtickby Demons,” the casting At the VerizonBlind Center, Twyman charged with, fraudulent ambition.

Too and riskyhis for president on the Republican group urged Obama small group patrolled the sidewalk carrying votes.”from America. et, lashed outMichelle at ACORN in the to refrain The problem about pri- and Beyoncé Are Possessed By final debate Barack attending theagainst concert with her daughters, Sasha came signs.

“Jay-Z marily because of Demons! the way Enter At Your SinceOwn McCain’s Obama, contending thethem groupfrom “is exposure and Malia, to protect to Risk!”comments, one read.

ACORN operates. Rather than ACORN’s 87 offices have been on the verge of maybe perpetratdemonic principles and unholy messages.

“Mrs. Obama, On Behalf Of The Youth Of rely on volunteers, it pays peobombarded with threats and ing one of the greatest frauds in “We think that the attendance of Mrs. America, Don’t Attend The Satanic Beyoncé ple, many of them poor or unemracist mail. voter history in this country, ployed, new voters. maybe destroying fabric Obama at such anthe event is of unbecoming ofto sign up Concert Tonight!” The day after the presidential idea was to help both those debate, had vandals broke into the ademocracy.” first lady and represents a terribleThe role “They just basically signs walking being registered and those doing organization’s Boston and Seattle Factcheck.org, a non-partisan model forfound our youth are with around saying Beyoncé andstole Jay-Z were ruled the registration. offices and computers.

Web site, those who claims to struggling unemployment at this time,” said Twyman. by demons,” said accountant April Batty, 30, Maud explained, “We have a After a Cleveland representative be “exaggerated,” with “no evitolerance policy for deliber- who appeared on TV,Twyman an e-mailas was dence any such democracyHe saidofhe believes that Jay-Z andzero Beyoncé’s of Baltimore, encountered ate especially falsification of she registration.” sent to the office she destroying fraud.” music is “corrupting young people,” stood in line waiting tolocal get into thesaying July 29 Most news account neglect to “is going to have her life ended.”

Hurd believes the McCain the oneswere in the Black community. show.is “He also had a sign in about the firstR.I., lady point out that ACORN A worker Providence, charges politically motivatTwyman, 64, of Rockville, a retired public destroying, I guess the title of first lady, by required by law to turn in all reg- received a threatening call sayed. they also fail ing, and “WeJay-Z. know you work She said, “Becausewho it’s lowrelations consultant describesistration himselfforms. as And supporting Beyoncé He get hadoff a third

By Zachary Lester AFRO Staff Writer

Leader Calls Voter Registration Fraud Charges ‘Bogus’

and moderate-income people, and people of color, I believe the McCain campaign thinks those voters are going Continued fromtoA1vote Democratic, which is not necessarily true.”

Then the first signs of labor ACORN showed up. is no stranger to controversy.

“I thought I had more For 38 years, the non-partisan time, I thought I had more organization has fought for social time,” Wendyjustice told the and economic for AFRO. lowandHer moderate-income contractions were Americans. With 400,000 mempulsing every two minutes. ber families organized into more She were “really than said 1,200they neighborhood chapstrong andcities really hard.” At ters in 110 nationwide, ACORN 3:13 a.m.has onover Julythe 27,years her seen its share of criticism while advowater broke and the Talley cating for affordable housing, family set offhealthcare for the hospital, living wages, for the planning to drop underserved— andtheir whiletwoorganizing voterson registration year-old Jacob atdrives. the But none has beenWhite, as withering home of Angela her and baseless as this one. mother-in-law--but they With the presidential election never made that far. less than two it weeks away, ACORN’s allegeready the “As wedetractors were getting organization has engaged in to leave the house, I yelledmasat sive voter registration fraud after my husbanddiscovery and toldofhim I the reported bogus felt something,” said Wendy names, such as Mickey Mouse

to note that it was the organization, in many instances, that first brought the phony registrations to the attention of authorities.

The McCain camp apparently isn’t interested those Talley.

“I toldinhim to fine call 911 points, preferring to air because the head wasmisleadcoming ing ads that seek to link Obama out.” to ACORN, thereby undercutting his Wendy political Talley support.told the McCain: I’mthe John McCain AFRO she felt baby’s and I approve this message. head press against her Announcer: Who is Barack undergarments and knew she Obama? A man with “a political wasn’t to make it to the baptismgoing performed at warp speed.” Vast ambition.

After coldelivery room but proceeded lege, he moved Chicago. of to head to the to University Became a community organizer.

Maryland Medical Center, There, Obama met Madeleine anyway.

Talbot, part of the Chicago WithofJacob in the SUV, branch ACORN. He was so impressive he was asked to his motherthat in the passenger train the ACORN staff. seat, Gerard Talley was on What did ACORN in Chicago aengage cell phone connection in? Bullying banks.with aIntimidation 911 dispatcher, the tactics.telling Disruption of business.

ACORN forced first responders their route banks to issue risky home loans. and each move they made.

The same types of loans that “I was trying tocrisis get we’re caused the financial as close as I could to the in today.

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at 9” and uttered racial epithets.

A caller Gerard to one office left a hospital,” Talley, message on the answering amachine, UMMCsaying: administrative “Hi, I was just aide, said theknow trip that down calling to letof you I-83. “IObama got offneeds at the Barack to Fayette get hung. deleted) StreetHe’s exitain(expletive downtown, and nigger, and he’s a piece of somehow dropped my cell (expletive deleted). You guys are phone in the fraudulent, andtruck.” you need to go to final moments oftrees. the hell.The All the niggers on oak They’re gonnadelivery get all hung honunexpected came eys, they’re going to get assassiat the intersection of Calvert nated, they’re gonna get killed.” andAnother Franklin streetssaid, where message “You Gerardidiots.

Talley spotted a police liberal Dumb (expletive deleted).

Welfareon bums.

You officer parked the corner, guys justhis (expletive deleted) honked horn and got out come to our country, consume of hisnatural truck to tell him what every resource there is, was happening. and make a lot of babies. That’s all you guys my do. And then suck “While husband was up and Iexpect outthe of welfare the truck, leanedeveryone else to pay for your hospital my seat back, took offsay mylet bills for your kids.

I jus’ bottoms and reached down your kids die. That’s the best move.

Just letbaby’s your children and felt my head,”die.

Forget paying Wendyabout Talley told for thehospital AFRO. bills for them. I’m not gonna do “When my husband opened it. You guys are lowlifes. And I the door, hedie.” yelled, ‘The head hope you all Hurd thinks the hate calls will is out.’” cease Assoon. city police stood at the “In two weeks, I think these scene making efforts reachit attacks will be over.

Butto I think dispatchers and medic units, will be harder for us to get our name back was on good graces this baby on the way out because they really trashed us in of the womb. the last few weeks.”

“My husband his But ACORN willtook not be hands and held the baby’s deterred.

“We’ve a head,” shebeen said.fighting “I onlyforhad long time, for over 30 years, two more contractions andfor the rights of low- and moderatethe baby was all out,across he was income people the out in the truck.” country,” Hurd said. “We’re going to continue to fight was for Noah Victor Talley economic justice in on ourJuly commuborn at 4:13 a.m.

27 nities.”

“These people have given nothing back to the Black community,” Twyman said. “And I don’t think that God is happy with what the youth of America is becoming.”

Twyman said he will take his message to SQUARE the national stage.

“I’m going to look up the Beyoncé tour schedule and see where she will be and when,” said Twyman, “Then I’ll get in touch with our people in different states and try to do what we’ve done here, allBREAD over the country.”

Twyman admitted that his group of protesters is often small. On July 29, they numbered six. The next day, only two.

But that doesn’t matter, he said.

LEFT “It goes back to the verse in the Bible that

the prices came down.”

He believes a similar phenomenon will follow the Beyonce protests.

“People were really stunned to see us down there, saying these are demons who are HIGH possessing our children,” Twyman said of the two-day campaign. “You can tell that from the fact that they took so many pictures of us. Cell phones went off like wildfire. We believe they will go back and look at those pictures and the wording we had our signs, NOTon ON THE LIST particularly one that said ‘Enter at your risk’ because they were entering a demon zone. We think they will be convicted that there is something wrong here, that there is some type of demonic forces that RIGHT are a part of the Jay-Z-Beyoncé syndrome.”

at the corner of Calvert and officer that came was great,” Franklin streets in Baltimore Wendy Talley said. “She city. cleaned the baby’s mouth With the calm of hospital out, helped my husband and professionals, the Talleys I wrap the baby up in his slapped the baby on his shirt and tied a makeshift buttocks and back in an [tourniquet with a] shoe attempt to get him crying. string around the umbilical By this time, other officers 1 BANANA cord, until it could be were arriving at the pre-dawn properly cut.” nativity scene. “The female Wendy Talley said the

unknown female officer was a blessing. She said, “She reassured us that everything was okay, and that our baby was going to be just fine.”

“I wish I could remember her name so I could thank her.”

“Once I heard the baby cry, I cried, we all cried,” Wendy Talley said.

Before age five, every room is a classroom.

Fun learning opportunities are everywhere. Simple things like counting and identifying shapes activate a child’s learning ability, and help them enter school more prepared. That’s why PNC founded Grow Up Great and its Spanish-language equivalent Crezca con Éxito, a 10-year, $100 million program to help prepare young children for school and life. Pick up a free bilingual Sesame Street™ “Happy, Healthy, Ready for School” kit at a PNC branch. It’s filled with all kinds of simple, everyday things you can do to help a child learn. Together, we can work with our communities so an entire generation won’t just grow up... but grow up great.

To find out more, go to pncgrowupgreat.com or call 1-877-PNC-GROW.

TM /©2008 Sesame Workshop. All rights reserved. ©2008 The PNC Financial Services Group, Inc. All rights reserved.

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The Afro-American, August 3, 2013 - August 9, 2013

August 3, 2013 - August 3, 2013, The Afro-American

Eastside Church Continued from A1

have to step outside the box to capture some ones attention and bring these incidents close to home,” Ross said.

During the staged funeral, people were able to see a real hearse pull into their neighborhood with a real, but empty casket inside. “This gave them a feeling of what a funeral looks like,” said Ross. As seven men removed the casket from the hearse, young men and women stood in silence.

Derasia Kornell,17, who lives in west Baltimore, said she was shocked to see the casket. “I hope what Pastor Ross did was send a message to kids in my age group that it’s not safe out here,” Kornell said.

“This was definitely a reality check,” she told the AFRO. Funeral Director John Williams of John Williams Funeral Home, helped Ross stage the event. “I think having something this dramatic, will hopefully show our young men and women that we care about them,” Williams said.

“We are killing ourselves, I don’t think they really understand that death is so final,” Williams told the AFRO. “These children need to know that once you pull that trigger, it could very well be over.”

Since moving his church to the inner city, from Baltimore County, less than two years ago, Ross wanted to become more involved in community outreach and helping urban neighborhoods. He forged many relationships that gave him opportunities to help and connect with people in the community.

In his efforts to fight against violence, Ross partnered with the Lanvale Towers and Canal

Baltimore’s Plan Courts community, the low-income housing developments near Ross’ place of worship.

“We needed a pastor to come to us, since so many of our residents aren’t able to get out of their homes to attend church,” Resource Coordinator, Peggy Demby said. “There is a lot of drug activity in this community, however since having a man of God present, it appears that it slowed down.”

Ross said he “wants to turn high crime neighborhoods around.” He said that the senseless killings are constant reminders that if we don’t do something the person in the casket could be anyone.

“We all know someone that has fallen victim to street violence,” Ross said.

Surrounding the long, oak wood casket people in the community stood in prayer and full of emotions yelling, enough is enough.”

Ross said he wanted to show the community that the violence that’s occurring isn’t okay.

“Bringing the word of God outside the walls of the church, allows us to reach more people in the community,” he said. “I’m taking my ministry to the streets to show unity.”

Over the course of a three-hour demonstration against violence, people in the community, residents and church members were able to listen to music, get free haircuts, manicures, food and face painting for the children. Ross also presented everyone with a sermon based around overcoming obstacles that would in turn “allow us to be stronger people and build stronger communities.”

“Too many of our people are dying, and it needs to stop,” said Ross.

Courtesy Photo

Community members, residents and church members listen to the word.

Continued from A1

4 percent. Those new employees will have the option of doling out an additional 2 percent, with the city contributing an additional 1 percent.

While the city may benefit, employees are likely to question the change from the current defined benefit plan, which guarantees a specific level of retirement benefit based on years of service and age.

“Under the defined benefit plan, the employer bears 100 percent of the risk, but under the other system, both the employer and the employee share the risk,” Black said.

City Comptroller Joan Pratt further explained in an emailed response, “The investment decision [for how the retirement funds are invested] rests with each individual member. [Therefore,] each member bears the investment risk because they have to select their own asset allocation, whether it is stocks, bonds, stable value, or some other asset class.”

Safety personnel, such as police officers and firefighters, and current city employees are exempt from the new retirement plan.

However, they, too, have experienced some version of pension reform, which was started in 2010, Black said. For example, security personnel have to serve for a longer period before they can retire and, in the case of civilian employees, they are now required to contribute toward the fund, which they have not been mandated to do since 1979.

Those changes elicited some protests and Black said he expects negative reactions to the 401 (k)-type retirement plan as well.

“That’s a natural reaction. Anytime you are talking about making changes you create some level of uneasiness,” he said.

But the changes are necessary to shore up the retirement system, which has gone from being 103 percent funded in 2003 to 68 percent funded in 2012, officials said.

“If we don’t do anything that number will continue to rise,” Black said, “so it’s important to take these measures now to increase the sustainability and viability of the retirement system.”

“What led to the unfunded liability was the financial crisis, the global economic crisis, especially in Europe, the recessionary period, market decline, and [poor] investment returns,” Comptroller Pratt said.

Civil Rights Leaders Continued from A1

minority voters.

During a speech at the National Urban League’s annual convention Attorney General Eric Holder said that, “the State of Texas should be required to go through a preclearance process whenever it changes its voting laws and practices.”

Holder plans to use remaining sections of the law go after states that continue practices that intentionally discriminate against voters.

Barbara Arnwine, president and executive director of the Lawyers’ Committee for Civil Rights Under Law, said that

uncovering and fighting voter discrimination in the current landscape is a daunting task, but she was encouraged to see how much the Department of Justice is strategizing and positioning itself to be a real force in combating racial discrimination.

Kasim Reed, mayor of Atlanta, said that civil rights leaders and voting rights advocates will be doing more education than ever.

“While there are a number of adverse tactics being used to undermine the right to vote,” said Reed.

“While there are a number of adverse tactics being used to undermine the right to vote, if

Civil Rights Agenda Continued from A1

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we do our job we will make sure that people maintain access to the ballot.”

Reed said that he plans to work with mayors across the nation to form partnerships with civil rights organizations to assist in voter engagement and education.

Marc Morial, president and CEO of the National Urban League, said that voters must “be particularly vigilant on proposals in state legislatures when they happen, not when they gain momentum, but when they happen.”

Arnwine said that her group will be looking at all the states and plans to conduct

hearings nationwide to assist Congress in obtaining the data that will be necessary to create a new voting map. “[President Obama] is committed to making sure that the right to vote is secure and strong and that he’s also calling on people to do everything they can to protect their right to vote,” said Arnwine. “Ultimately, it’s about what the citizens will do.”

Arnwine’s group is part of a larger coalition formed to assist embattled voters around the nation. The Election Protection Website is www.866ourvote.org; telephone, 866-OURVOTE. Panelists on the National Urban League’s Redeem the Dream panel were (l to r) Al Sharpton, Lennox Yearwood, Melanie Campbell, Marc Morial, DeVon Franklin, Barbara Arnwine and Jesse L. Jackson, Sr.

The status of Baltimore’s retirement system is not unlike that of other retirement funds all over the country and reflects the economic realities of the times.

According to a Pew Charitable Trust study, Baltimore is among “30 cities at the center of the nation’s most populous metropolitan areas “ that are looking at “ $192 billion in unpaid commitments for pensions and other retiree benefits, primarily health care, as of fiscal 2009 and are employing a variety of strategies to address these shortfalls.”

The cities are facing a “long-term shortfall

“Anytime you are talking about making changes you create some level of uneasiness.”

-- Harry Black

of $88 billion for pensions and $104 billion for retiree health care and other non-pension benefits.”

“For retiree health care, the most serious underfunding per household was in New York at $22,857, followed by Boston at $18,962, Detroit at $15,682, San Francisco at $13,487, and Baltimore at $10,208,” The Pew study, dated March 2013, said.

But while the current outlook may seem grim, the situation can change for the better, she said.

“The pension board…maintain[s] a broadly diversified asset allocation,” Pratt said. “There are market cycles and they will be volatile but overall the Baltimore Retirement System strategy is investing for the long term.”

Similarly, Baltimore continues to be economically viable, Black said.

“Baltimore, considering its challenges, is solvent, is fiscally sound,” said the finance chief. “We’re seeing a lot of economic progress in the city. The population is stabilized and actually growing. There’s tremendous interest in terms of economic development.”

First Black to Head Academy Awards Board

By AFRO Staff Cheryl Boone Isaacs, film industry marketing veteran and one of the few Black Hollywood insiders, was named president of the Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences July 30 in Los Angeles, Calif.

The election of the Lionsgate motion picture group co-chair, who is already an Academy member, by Cheryl Boone Isaacs the 48-member board marks the first time an African American will oversee the group that bestows coveted Oscars for cinematic works.

The action comes during a period in which the commercial film industry is under pressure to demonstrate ethnic diversity.

“I think it’s wonderful. She’s a person who has paid her dues for the academy. She knows all the ins and outs of the academy. She doesn’t have to start at the beginning,” said former academy president Tom Sherak.” these vast oceans of poverty amid all the plenty. So many are doing well and so many people are left behind.”

He said many U.S. tax and trade policies are misguided.

“American public policy is focused on job creation,” Morial said. A significant part of it is focused on job creation in the wrong places. For example, there’s a huge infrastructure rebuilding program that the people of the United States are paying for. The problem is it’s for the reconstruction of and rebuilding of Bagdad. It’s for the reconstruction of Kandahar…Your and my tax dollars are being invested. That could be and should be redirected to Philadelphia, to Baltimore, to Boston. Secondly, United States trade and tax policies are encouraging job creation.

But they are encouraging job creation in China, in India and overseas.”

Morial said recent changes in federal student loan programs are threatening the existence of some historically

Sounding more like an evangelical preacher than the lawyer that she is, Arnwine drew loud applause when she said, “You need a state law that says to employers that credit checks have nothing to do with your ability to work. If your credit is bad, it’s because you don’t have a job. Get real.”

Al Sharpton, president of the National Action Network, said the private sector needs to assume a larger role in reducing Black unemployment, which stood at 12.7 percent when Obama took office and rose to 13.7 percent in June, twice the White employment rate of 6.6 percent. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, more than 2.5 million Blacks are unemployed.

National Urban League Photo by Lawrence Jenkins “Ever since President Obama has been in, there has been an increase in jobs in the private sector, but Black unemployment has not decreased. Why? Black colleges.

Because we work [disproportionately] in the public sector,” he explained. “So while the private Morial recounted a recent conversation with Norman Francis, president of Xavier University corporations who now don’t have to deal with us because the Supreme Court is knocking down in New Orleans, who noted that changes to the student loan program will “cost the member affirmative action, they are not hiring us. The public sector is being cut down with agencies and colleges of the United Negro College Fund $50 million.” programs – we’re being minimized in the public sector.”

“There is something deeply flawed when young people who have gone to high school, But Sharpton said Blacks have the economic leverage to force companies to hire more graduated from high school, gotten admitted to colleges and universities, successfully completed African-Americans. one year and cannot go back even if they have A’s and top-level scores. They can’t go back “We need to renegotiate Black America’s understanding – we called them covenants – with because of money.” the private sector,” he said. “The court can say all it wants about affirmative action, we have the Morial said if the Federal Reserve can lend money to banks at zero interest rates, similar consumer power to say to companies that do business in our communities that, ‘You must have targets of doing jobs in our community.’ They can’t make us buy from those who won’t hire us.” accommodations need to be made to save HBCUs. In response to a question from a convention delegate about whether there should be a Jesse Jackson said that all levels of government should also be held accountable. national boycott of Florida, where George Zimmerman was acquitted of murder for shooting “In Chicago, there are 81,000 vacant lots,” he stated. “They cut public housing and they Trayvon Martin, a 17-year-old African American, Sharpton said he would support a boycott if it foreclosed on private housing. They’ve cut public transportation, cut trauma care. Cut public were carefully planned, saying, “You got to hurt who has hurt us.” schools. There is no present plan to bring us out of that isolation. And I think the government The death of Martin, the unarmed 17-year-old, was mentioned throughout the panel has some obligation.” discussion about how to strike down Stand Your Ground laws.

“We’ve got a $15 trillion economy in the United States of America, the largest economy in “We are now right back where we were 50 years ago, where states are superseding our the world,” according to Marc Morial, president and CEO of the National Urban League. “And federal civil rights,” Sharpton said. it is unacceptable – Dr. King talked about it and Whitney Young talked about it – for there to be

August 3, 2013 - August 9, 2013, The Afro-American

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HEALTH

FDA Seeks Public Opinion Before Deciding Fate of Menthol Cigarettes

By Alexis Taylor AFRO Staff Writer Although all the expert opinions from health officials are in, authorities at the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) have one more voice to listen to before they decide the fate of menthol in cigarettes- the voice of the American people.

The FDA completed an in-depth study on menthol in cigarettes and released their finding on July 23, the same day it issued an Advance Notice of Proposed Rulemaking (ANPRM) asking for public input.

“The evaluation talks about a lot of different associations between menthol cigarettes and outcomes,” said Jennifer Haliski, a press officer with the FDA. “There is greater initiation, greater addiction, and menthol makes it harder to quit.”

And smokers agree.

“Unfortunately, I’ve been smoking since before I could

legally do so due to my father’s smoking habits,” said Jeffrey Goodman, a 23-year-old stage technician from Upper Marlboro, Md.

FDA Cites Firms for Unapproved Diabetes Treatments; Warns Consumers

By Alexis Taylor AFRO Staff Writer The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) is warning consumers to avoid unapproved drugs to treat diabetes and related symptoms and has ordered a halt to the sale of a score of diabetic treatment compounds.

The federal agency in July issued warning letters to 15 companies selling a total of 20 products that claim to alleviate, cure, or prevent diabetes and complications of the disease to stop selling the products.

“It’s a violation of the Food, Drugs, and Cosmetics Act because some of these products are illegally sold as ‘natural treatments for diabetes’ but they contain undeclared drug products that are actual active ingredients and can cause harm,” said Christopher Kelly, a spokesman for the FDA. “These products are dietary supplements that simply make claims to cure diabetes in ways that dietary supplements can’t. We even have subscription drugs that are being sold through online pharmacies without a prescription- you always need a valid prescription.”

The FDA is telling

consumers to steer clear of unapproved products with labels that claim to “lower your blood sugar naturally,” decrease risk of kidney disease, or “replace medicine in the treatment of diabetes.”

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, 8.3 percent of Americans, or 25.8 million people, are being treated for diabetes or related conditions as of 2011.

Diabetes and associated illnesses are the leading cause of kidney failure and blindness for many adults, according to the CDC. Kelly, who’s been with the FDA for more than six years, told the AFRO that whether the products are bought online or over the counter- at the heart of the issue is safety.

“We find that consumers delay seeking proper medical treatment and that leads to an increased risk of developing more serious complications.”

In warning letters July 15, the companies were told to halt sales of the unapproved products and respond to the FDA within 15 days about how they will correct the violations or face further action by the FDA which could include “seizure, injunction, and or criminal prosecution.”

Included are Enhance

Nutraceutical in Malaysia, which markets Diaberex online, and Chicago’s Health King Enterprises and Balanceuticals Group, Inc., which sells a “Sugar Balancer” that a representative said isn’t specifically for diabetes treatment Neuliven Health did not respond to requests for comment on their product, Glucocil, which is still listed for sale on the firm’s website, and representatives of Nature’s Health Supply, Inc. in Camarillo, Calif., sellers of Diabetes Daily Care, declined to comment.

While some companies are ignoring the warning letters, some are complying.

Omar Lalani, director of PharmaTerra, spoke with the AFRO about the Mercer Island, Wash.-company’s product, ProBeta, also being marketed, without FDA approval, to control diabetes.

“We pulled it as soon as we received the warning because we are being as cautious as we can,” said Lalani, who disagrees with the FDA’s claim and said that the product is safe for consumers.

“Our customers are shocked and saddened by this decision.”

Representatives of the Oklahoma City-based

Top Ways to Stay Healthy on the High Seas

By Alexis Taylor AFRO Staff Writer Health care officials have some advice for anyone planning on soaking up some rays on a cruise this summer.

Though escaping the daily routine of everyday life may seem like the perfect getaway, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) warn that, without proper planning and attention to health before and during a fun vacation, a high-seas adventure can quickly turn into a nightmare.

“Although cruising has many obvious pleasures, potential health hazards are also a risk with cruise ship travel,” according to the CDC’s website. “Regardless of your itinerary, you should be up-to-date on routine vaccines, such as measles, mumps, rubella, varicella, and seasonal flu.”

“Crew members and fellow travelers often come from countries where these diseases are more common than in the United States and where vaccination is not routine,” the organization warned. “Consequently, outbreaks of chickenpox and rubella, German measles, have been reported on cruise ships.”

Depending on the destination, some places such as Africa and South America, require certain vaccination records before entry.

In addition to making sure that their

Anastasia Marie Laboratories, Inc. twice refused to comment on FDA assertions about Diapedic Foot and Leg Treatment, which allegedly “relieves neuropathy pain… invigorates circulation… and speeds wound healing.”

Though the product is listed as not approved for diabetes treatment by the FDA, it is still the subject of the most prominent advertisement on the first page of their website.

“The first time I smoked a cigarette it was a Newport King short, I can still remember how smooth it felt,” he said of the popular menthol cigarette. “Now, as a young adult who has quit smoking more than three times, I find that every time I do quit, I crave that smooth menthol taste.”

Goodman told the AFRO that he sometimes awakens from his sleep in “cold sweats, craving menthol,” and that after waking up, finishing a meal, or before going to sleep it is the only thing his body constantly desires.

“Honestly, if they took all menthol cigarettes off the market I’d be upset because I’d have to try and manage the craving without an easy way, but happy because I’d have to finally quit smoking them.”

President Obama, who has battled his own cigarette addiction over the years, took measures to tighten regulations on the sale and marketing of cigarettes in June 2009.

“More than 400,000 Americans now die of tobacco-related illnesses each year, making it the leading cause of preventable death in the United States,” said Obama in transcripts from June 22, 2009, when he signed into law the Family Smoking Prevention and Tobacco Control Act. “More than 8 million Americans suffer from at least one serious illness caused by smoking. And these health problems cost us all more than $100 billion a year.”

The law placed cigarettes, smokeless tobacco, and loose tobacco under FDA regulation and banned flavored tobacco while leaving menthol cigarettes legal.

Packaging requirements also tightened, as the law required companies to display health-warning labels on 50 percent of the front and back of cigarette packages. The Tobacco Control Act also eliminated the usage of words like “light,” and “mild” on tobacco products.

The Altria Group, a tobacco conglomerate that owns three different tobacco companies like Philip Morris USA, agreed with the FDA regulation in 2009.

“We have just received the latest information related to the FDA’s review of menthol cigarettes and are currently reviewing the information,” said the company.

“We will provide our perspective to the FDA through the public comment process.”

[heer-oh] 1. an individual admired for their brave deeds and noble qualities.

2. a person who has performed a heroic act and is regarded as a role model.

3. organ, eye and tissue donors.

vaccinations are up-to-date before departing, travelers should also give their health insurance policies a thorough review. Not all health insurance covers needs that could come up, such as an injury that requires air evacuation, which the CDC says could cost anywhere between $50,000 to $100,000 While aboard a vessel, health officials also recommend repeat hand-washings to avoid becoming a part of norovirus outbreaks which have reportedly caused diarrhea and vomiting.

Travelers are encouraged to only eat cuisine fully cooked and served hot, avoid drinking water from anything except a sealed bottle, and avoid ice cubes. Those currently on medications for chronic conditions are also reminded to bring enough of their medication to last the duration of their excursion.

Become someone’s hero today by registering as an organ, eye and tissue donor when you renew your license at the MVA or visit:

DonateLifeMaryland.org

A6

The Afro-American, August 3, 2013 - August 9, 2013

COMMUNITY CONNECTION Aug. 2

Aisha Tyler Baltimore Comedy Factory, 6 Market Place, Baltimore, Md. 7 p.m.

Aisha Tyler will bring her hilarious act to Baltimore. $22. For more information: Baltimorecomedy.com.

Aug. 3

Jazz Under the Stars Extravaganza The Lorraine Garden, 1021 Hartmont Road, Cationsville, Md. 6 p.m.

Bring your own lawn chair for incredible jazz music, chilled beer and wine. $20.

For more information: 443413-1470.

Crab Cakes & Comedy Sully’s Comedy Cellar, 9306 Harford Road, Parkville, Md. 8 p.m.

Enjoy delicious crab cakes and hilarious comedy. $12.

For more information: 410665-8600.

Aug. 5

Will the Thrill Basketball Academy St. Frances Academy, 501 E. Chase St., Baltimore. 9 a.m. Boys and girls from ages 11 to 17 will develop and sharpen their sills on the basketball court with NBA trainer Matt Howard and professional trainer Kevin Bullock. $70. For more information: www. charmcityfest.com.

Aug. 17

NAACP Freedom Fighter Awards Breakfast Hotel Monaco, 2 N. Charles St., Baltimore. 9 a.m. Join the NAACP as they celebrate the 50th Anniversary of the 1963 March on Washington. $50. For more information: NAACPbreakfast.com.

August 3, 2013 - August 9, 2013, The Afro-American

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OPINION

Rebuilding an America in Which Everyone Counts As President Obama and America move forward with full implementation of the Affordable Care Act, this nation continues to be embroiled in the fundamental struggle for human dignity that Dr. King addressed at the Lincoln Memorial 50 years ago.

Although the President did not stress this historic perspective during his seminal remarks on Congressman economic renewal at Knox Elijah Cummings College last week, he made it clear that the movement to assure affordable health care for every American is a moral, as well as economic, imperative.

The President believes, as do I, that the harsh reality of too many Americans’ dying before their time - or being crushed economically by uninsured accidents or illness - is within our ability to overcome.

Both our morality and practicality demand reform. These reforms, in turn, are a logical progression in Dr. King’s vision of an America in which everyone counts.

For decades now, this nation has experimented with “trickledown economics.” The results of that experiment are in, and, for America’s middle class, that top-down vision has failed.

That reality, more than any other factor, is why Americans voted for President Obama and progressive members of Congress in 2008 and 2012. They voted for policies that will expand our prosperity outward from the middle class - rather than downward from most wealthy and powerful of our society.

The Affordable Care Act (ACA) that a Democratic Congress passed, President Obama signed into law, and the U.S. Supreme Court upheld is a core component of our progressive response to the public outcry for change. It already is making a difference in people’s lives.

During the last three years, due to the ACA, 6.6 million young adults up to age 26 have obtained insurance through their parents’ plans; 6.3 million people with Medicare have saved over $6.1 billion on their prescription drugs, and 34 million have received a free preventive service.

Notwithstanding the political hype from opponents, these

are real, practical and welldeserved contributions to people’s lives. Now, our challenge is to successfully implement the next stage of health insurance reform.

On Oct. 1, less than two months from now, we will begin open enrollment in the ACA’s new Health Insurance Marketplaces. Americans who are looking for new, better or more affordable health coverage will have the opportunity to choose quality health insurance coverage from numerous private health plans.

Those who qualify will be able to sign up for expanded Medicaid coverage. Those whose income is a little higher will be able to receive slidingscale premium tax credits to make their coverage more affordable. Small businesses will obtain help in insuring their employees.

For the public’s convenience, these Health Insurance Marketplaces will be accessible to both consumers and employers through a centralized federal website (www.

HealthCare.gov). Here in Maryland, our marketplace will provide direct local access, including HealthCare Access Maryland (www.healthcareaccessmaryland.org) and Healthy Howard (www.healthyhowardmd.org).

These on-line marketplaces, along with the convenience and expanded competition among insurers that they will provide, are important practical elements in advancing our progressive vision. Another is the increased federal support to Maryland’s Federally Qualified Community Health Centers.

On July 10, Health and Human Services Secretary Kathleen Sebelius announced $1.6 million in grant awards to help Maryland health centers enroll the uninsured in their new ACA health coverage options. That outreach effort will be critical to the nearly 300,000 patients served last year, one-quarter of

Focus on Poverty, not the Middle Class

whom were uninsured.

For those of us who believe in the vision of an America in which everyone counts, it is important that each of us know the facts about our progress toward full ACA implementation. As the President noted in his Knox College speech, there are those who are actively working to assure that the reforms fail.

Along with my Democratic colleagues, I will continue to do my part in setting the record straight, both for the general public and for small business owners who now will be able to afford health insurance for their employees. I hope and trust that we all will do the same, helping friends and family members obtain the health insurance that they so desperately need to thrive and survive.

Five decades after Dr. King cried out for jobs and freedom, our challenge to America remains the same.

We are in this life together. Every American must count.

Congressman Elijah Cummings represents Maryland’s Seventh Congressional District in the U.S. House.

Several of us were sharing our views on radio George E. Curry Sunday night with Gary Byrd when my friend and colleague Cash Michaels urged us to remember that Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. was assassinated while organizing poor people.

This is a good time to remember that as President Obama seeks ways to strengthen the middle class and civil rights leaders focus on celebrating the 50th anniversary of the Aug. 28, 1963 March on Washington.

The idea of organizing a Poor People’s Campaign was discussed during a Nov. 27-31, 1967 Southern Christian Leadership Conference (SCLC) planning session in Frogmore, S.C. With the nation’s attention focused on the Vietnam War, Dr. King wanted to redirect the conversation to what the Bible calls the least among us by focusing on jobs and income.

Dr. King’s idea was to bring poor people from all over the country to Washington, D.C. in order to put a face on the suffering of people. While still firmly committed to nonviolence, his plan was for a dramatic presence that would disrupt traffic and shut down the nation’s capital.

“We ought to come in mule carts, in old trucks, any kind of transportation people can get their hands on. People ought to come to Washington, sit down if necessary in the middle of the streets and say, ‘We are here; we are poor; we don’t have any money; you have made us this way,’” King said. “‘And we’ve

come to stay until you do something about it.’”

Just as his close advisers had urged him not to give his “I Have a Dream Speech” in 1963, variations of which they had heard earlier, most of Dr. King’s inner circle disagreed with his decision to embark on a Poor People’s Campaign.

Children advocate and former civil rights attorney Marian Wright Edelman recalled in her book, Unfinished Business, “William Rutherford, who had organized the Friends of SCLC in Europe in 1966 and was appointed executive director of SCLC during the summer of 1967, declared that, ‘basically almost no one on the staff thought that the next priority, the next major movement, should be focused on poor people or the question of poverty in America.’ At the time James Bevel wanted to remain focused on combating slums in northern cities, Hosea Williams promoted voter registration campaigns in the South, Jesse Jackson wanted to continue to develop Operation Breadbasket, and Andrew Young worried that SCLC’s budget of under a million dollars necessitated smaller campaigns in the South.”

But Dr. King forged ahead, calling for $30 billion to be spent on anti-poverty measures, employment and housing construction. King was helping organize garbage workers in Memphis when he was assassinated. Ralph D. Abernathy, his successor and close friend, continued with plans for the Poor People’s Campaign.

Instead of the militant protest Dr. King had envisioned, however, the highlight of the Poor People’s March to

Washington was not shutting down the capital, but the erection of Resurrection City, a collection of tents pitched in D.C. In the view of many observers, Dr. King posed a greater threat to the power structure when he began organizing poor Blacks and Whites. But there is an even better opportunity to unite poor people today because so many Whites have become impoverished as a result of a recession and high unemployment.

Still, poverty among working-class non-Whites remains about double that of Whites.

Mark Rank, a professor at Washington University in St. Louis, believes Dr. King was on to something when he sought to unite poor people across racial lines.

“Poverty is no longer an issue of ‘them,’ it’s an issue of ‘us.’ he told the AP. “Only when poverty is thought of as a mainstream event, rather than a fringe experience that just affects Blacks and Hispanics, can we really begin to build broader support for programs that lift people in need.”

This is no time to keep Dr. King frozen in the memory of the 1963 March on Washington or his “I Have a Dream” speech while neglecting his true calling to eradicate poverty five years later. As he said, “If you can’t fly then run, if you can’t run then walk, if you can’t walk then crawl, but whatever you do, you have to keep moving forward.”

George E. Curry, former editor-in-chief of Emerge magazine, is editor-in-chief of the National Newspaper Publishers Association News Service (NNPA).

The U.S. Senate finally stepped up to ensure that student loan rates would not double. There have been weeks of back and forth, but now senators says they will tie student loan rates to the federal funds rate, which means that in the short-run the lowest student loan rates will be 3.86 percent, up slightly from 3.4 percent. The bad news is that these loan rates may rise up to a rate of 8.25 percent, depending on prevailing interest rates. All other loan rates, including those for graduate students, for Parent PLUS loans, and others, will rise as well.

It may seem a victory that student loan rates don’t rise much higher than they were in June. The connection of rates to the federal funds rate, however, connects the notion of supporting student to the oscillations of the economy.

One might argue that many have no economic security. The mortgage holder with a variable mortgage is subject to interest rate fluctuations as they manage a balloon payment. Those with underground mortgages are victims of interest rate variables as they try to dig themselves above ground. Surely, though, students who are financing their education in order to invest in the health of our nation should have different rules. When I graduated from college in 1974, interest rates hovered between

9 and 10 percent. The student loan interest rate was 2 percent.

Why? My cohort was no more or less brilliant than any other.

We were part of our nation’s plan for its future, which should be the case for today’s young people.

Many hoped that the deal on student loan interest rates would take into account the federal funds rate (the rate to which the Federal Reserve Bank offers to banks) is well below 1 percent. From that perspective, even the existing rate of 3.4 percent suggests that the government is taking in more than it gives out. It’s complicated – there are other costs that must be considered in the lending process. It’s complicated, but shouldn’t our students get as close to the same deal that banks and others get?

Allowing student loan interest rates to fluctuate, to the detriment of students in an environment when rates are certain to go up is to slap our students in the face. We need more graduate and professional students in the science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) programs.

It seems hypocritical to articulate these needs and then to undercut the means to meet them. There are more than $1 trillion outstanding in student loan obligations. The average student graduates with $27,000 in debt. Since nearly half of all students graduate with no debt at all, this means that the average debt for those who borrow is closer to $40,000.

Many students with a talent for organizing, human resource allocation, or classroom teaching are diverted from their goals because their first priority is to pay student loan debt. We are starving our civil society institution, and those who would serve them, by placing money over affinity and creativity. This has been happening for decades, but the current student loan dustup reminds us that we have not provided the safe space for our young people that we should.

The Senate bill passed 80-18 with some Democrats rejecting it because of its flaws. Others, like the progressive Sen. Elizabeth Warren (D-Mass.), elected as a financial whiz and people’s advocate, chose to go with the one-year “okey-doke” rather than dig her heels in for the long run fight.

In some ways, Warren is right. The finger in the dike approach saves students this year, and so it is better than nothing. When, though, is better than nothing simply not good enough. Stay tuned. The vote on reauthorization of the Higher Education Act will happen next year. Are students waiting and watching? What about parents? Is there a political lobby to turn this mess around?

Student Loan ‘Solution’ is Not Good Enough

Julianne Malveaux

Julianne Malveaux is a Washington, D.C.-based economist and writer. She is president emerita of Bennett College for Women in Greensboro, N.C.

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The Afro-American, August 3, 2013 - August 9, 2013

Medical Advances, Evolution, Enhance African American Use of Bone Marrow

By Alexis Taylor Special to the AFRO Fred Craig was 50 when members of his Washington, D.C. church convinced him to become a bone marrow donor.

The year was 2000 when a spring bone marrow drive at the Dupont Park Seventh Day Adventist Church added his name to the only donor registry in the country, the Be the Match registry, operated by the National Marrow Donor Program.

Less than six months later, he got the call.

The make-up of his body tissue matched another American with one of the many cancers or blood disorders, such as sickle cell anemia, that required a bone marrow transplant.

“There was a need, and it was as simple as that,” Craig told the AFRO, when asked what made him sign up. “The drive was in response to a church member who had some form of a blood disease. They passed away from it and that could have been prevented.”

Leukemia, lymphoma, multiple myeloma and immune deficiency disorders are all conditions that could require a transplant.

Craig said the National Institutes of Health (NIH) carried out thorough testing and a physical exam before clearing him as a donor healthy enough to give bone marrow.

The tissue was taken from his pelvic area and Craig said he could have gone home the same day, but chose to stay overnight

Fred Craig, now 64, became a bone marrow donor after his church held a registration drive. for observation. And though others might disagree, Craig said the process “wasn’t painful at all.”

“They gave me some medicine for the pain, but I never had to take it because I didn’t have any.”

The 64-year-old says if he could do it again he would, but medical issues now prevent a return to the donor list.

Fast forward thirteen years, and a lot has changed in the business of getting bone marrow to those in need.

Today, more than four decades after the first bone marrow grafts, there is a robust registry of donors and, thanks to medical

Craig (left), with son Jason Craig, his wife, Lulamea Craig, and daughter, Iris Craig. advances, African Americans are benefitting more than ever.

“In the past, bone marrow transplants could only be done between people who were completely matched,” said Dr. Richard J. Jones, director of the Johns Hopkins University Bone Marrow Transplant Program.

According to information released by the National Marrow Donor Program, the term “matching” refers to the process of linking together a donor and a recipient with the same tissue type, “specifically their human leukocyte antigen (HLA) tissue type.”

“HLAs are proteins — or markers — found on most cells in your body. Your immune system uses these markers to recognize which cells belong in your body and

which do not,” says the NMDP. Jones told the AFRO that HLA proteins are the same markers that that tell doctors whether or not a person will be able to accept a kidney or liver from another body.

Hopkins researchers have overcome biochemical mismatches and now can use any first degree relative as bone marrow source.

“The people we want to donate the most are Americans between the ages of 18 and 44 because we’ve found through clinical trials that younger donors give patients a better transplant and they’re much more robust, Nadya Dutchin , national representative for Be The Match registry, said donors should be in good general health, and be committed to donating when they are called.

“About 50 percent of the people are unavailable when we call them- either we can’t find them, they don’t want to donate anymore, or their health has deteriorated to the point that they can’t.”

Autoimmune disorders, such as rheumatoid arthritis, people with fibromyalgia, or communicable blood conditions cannot donate. However, Americans with controlled type 2 diabetes, high cholesterol or blood pressure issues can still make the cut.

Becoming a donor is simple.

“You can fill out the consent form online and someone will mail a cheek swab to them at home.”

For more information on how to become a donor, please visit http://bethematch.org

A Mother’s Cry Reunion A Mother’s Cry, a support group for parents who have lost children to violence, is having a reunion from noon to 8 p.m., Aug. 4 ,at Swan Pavilion at Druid Hill Park in Baltimore. For more information, call Millie Brown, A Mother’s Cry founder and coordinator, at 443-760-8453.

Closed Meeting Over Harbor Point Deal Violated Transparency Law

By Krishana Davis AFRO Staff Writer Maryland’s Open Meetings Compliance Board ruled on July 29 that Baltimore’s board of finance violated transparency laws by holding a closed meeting to approve $100 million in city issued bonds for the Harbor Point’s $1.8 billion development initiative.

The Open Meeting Compliance Board is an independent state run agency housed in the State’s Attorney’s Office.

The ruling came after a complaint was filed to the board by various media outlets such as The Baltimore Sun and Fox 45, which were barred from a May 30 meeting, said Baltimore City Solicitor George Nilson. During the meeting the board voted to approve a request for cityissued bonds to build roads, utilities and parks for the Harbor Point development.

“The closed meeting form had been the practice for at least 15 years in the city,” said Nilson.

“Close meetings typically involved the discussion of financial assistance packages to attract a

company to come to town, expansion or to persuade a company to stay.”

In the May 30 meeting, however, it was no secret that Exelon was moving its headquarters to Baltimore or the project would be headed by Michael S. Beatty’s development group.

“In this case, a closed meeting didn’t apply because everything was already known,” said Nilson. “Nothing was confidential.”

The Open Meetings Compliance Board ruling does not invalidate the approved bond request for the Harbor Point project, said Nilson. Instead, it sets a precedent for how the city must conduct financial meetings in the future.

According to the Open Meetings Act, in October, public bodies who violate this act will receive an initial fine of $250. Any repeat violations will result a fine of $1,000.

“It is unfortunate the meeting was not held in noncompliance,” said Nilson. “We hope to do better next time.”

A public hearing is scheduled for Aug. 7 in front of the city council’s taxation, finance and economic development committee.

Ravens Linebacker Host Football Clinic for Inner City Youth running from one yard to the next, were all too excited to be playing with some of the big leagues.

“It feels good and it’s exciting,” a seven-year old told the Most kids can only dream of holding of holding a genuine AFRO. conversation with a National Football league (NFL) player Setting back their parents only 35 dollars, the event was much less learn football tips and techniques from one. hosted in conjunction with Big Brother Big Sister of the But that’s exactly what happened on July 6, when nearly Greater Chesapeake, which specializes in partnering mentors 300 youths ages 5 to 17 years spent five hours with some of and mentees together with a science. the nations’ leading athletes at Jameel McClain’s Football and “This event will help the children with character building, Fitness Clinic. leadership, proper nutrition and health and specifically about Girls and boys alike learned the finer points “I am all about giving back and all about the youth. It just teamwork,” said Selwyn Ray, community engagement for Big of football at the 3rd Annual Jameel McClain seemed like a good fit,” McClain, Ravens linebacker, told Brother Big Sister. “The children will receive messages of Football and Fitness Clinic. the AFRO of his four-year leadership, strength, perseverance partnership with Big Brother and learn how to develop their own Big Sister. self concepts.”

McClain, who’s camp Ray said in an environment grows larger each year, where children are in a brought a few friends along dysfunctional neighborhood and with him. Ravens offensive family and the communities are tackle Michael Oher, former chaotic so the children are receiving Ravens linebacker Dannell messages from their own peers.

Ellerbe, linebacker Bryan They are teaching each other on Hall and friend and former limited information on how to be.

Ravens linebacker Edgar For McClain, the clinic was McClain, a linebacker for the Baltimore Ravens, Learning the fine points of tackling and blocking Jones. an opportunity to put a positive stresses the importance of proper fitness and takes a backseat to the character and teamwork Oher told the AFRO, message directly into the minds of form on the field. seen on and off the field.

“Jameel gives back to the the country’s future. community all the time. He does a lot of stuff and he is very “We can’t change the world over night, but we can at positive in the community.” He said, “it helps the kids out least plant the seed in some kids so that he may change his tremendously to have something like this, kids look up to us.” perspective.” McClain said.

Also on had to assist McClain were nearly a dozen As the children enjoyed their lunch, McClain spoke to the volunteers and coaches. Reggie Davis, who has volunteered youngsters and told them that, “some people succeed because for 3-years said, “this camp is great for the kids. It allows kids they are destined, some people succeed because they are to see adults doing positive things, therefore it gives them determined.” hope.”

The impact McClain made on the children in his camp was Davis told the AFRO, “a lot of kids now are exposed to evident after awarding six young children “character awards.” more, forcing them to grow up faster, so anytime you can help The awards were presented to the child who demonstrated out and give back it’s great.” great teamwork and sportsmanship.

Camp attendees do their best end-zone dancesAs footballs flew back and fourth across the field, children “It’s more than just football, said McClain.

Ray Lewis style, of course.

By Blair Adams and Alexis Taylor Afro Staff Writers

August 3, 2013 - August 9, 2013, The Afro-American

Baltimore residents of all ages gathered, July 7, to commemorate the 1963 integration of Gwynn Oak Amusement Park in Maryland. In fact, it was the same day that Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. was giving the notable “I Have a Dream” speech in Washington, D.C. Some of those in attendance had been participants in the protests that demanded equal access.

Some were too young to remember, but elders told the story to all who wanted to hear.

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Tanwa Suma and Diane Moore-Simon

State Sen. Verna Jones-Rodwell

State Del. Jill Carter

State Del. Adrienne Jones, Kweisi Mfume, State Sen. Delores Kelley, State Sen. Shirley NathanPulliam, Kevin Kameneth, Balto. Co. exec. and County Councilman Ken Oliver

Rev. P.M. Smith, Huber Memorial Church Rabbi Arthur Waskow, civil rights activist Set The Captives Free Choir Peaches Camphor with one of the original horses from the Merry-Go-Round

Cherise Watson sings the national anthem

Mary Sue Welcome and Dana Moore Jordan Tomlin, left, Destiny Crompton, Saige Hodge, Morgan Lewis and Diamond Tomlin

Carver Voc. Tech. High School students display plaques they created to commemorate the event

Donald Welling Sharon Langley is the child on the merry-goround book cover

Leo Burroughs Jr.

J.P. Grant, Grant Capital ManagementBalto. Grand Prix and Al Robinson

John and Theresa Rafinello

Evelyn Chatmon, chairperson, board of trustees, Union Baptist Church

So many words were offered to describe the life and times of Dr. Homer Favor at the June 20 Memorial Service for him at Union Baptist Church. With time constraints, not enough words could be said to properly detail the man with a love for a city, the professor with a method to make it better, the ‘Goon Squad’ member with a heart and the courage to see it through along with a number of clandestine fellows.

Event organizers, Beverly and Pete O'Neal

Arnold M. Jolivet, chairperson, board of deacons, Union Baptist Church

Dr. Favor's favorite hats Rev. William C. Calhoun, pastor, Trinity Baptist Church

Dr. Byron C. Desbordes

Attorney Billy Murphy greeting family

Dr. Levi Watkins Joi Shuron, Jeniah Shuron and Kamya Simmons

Sen. Delores G. Kelley Rev. A.C.D. Vaughn

Aurora Trigg is assisted into the service

Bishop Marshall Strickland, AME Zion Church

The Honorable Robert M. Bell

Flair Studio Dancers

Photos by Anderson Ward

Rev. Dr. Alvin C. Hathaway, senior pastor of Union Baptist Church, giving the bendiction

Jackie Blake played His Eye is on the Sparrow

Photos by J.D. Howard

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The Afro-American, August 3, 2013 - August 9, 2013

HBCU NEWS

Still No Answers in Death of Hampton Freshman

By Bria Freeman Special to the AFRO As the new school year approaches, students from Baltimore to the Hampton Roads region of Virginia remember David Tolulope Esan, the Hampton University freshman who drowned in a campus swimming pool during a schoolsponsored celebration in March.

Esan, 17, a graduate of Western School of Technology and Environmental Science in Baltimore County, was attending a chaperoned, freshman week party on March 20 when his body was found at the bottom of the 12-foot end of the pool by a football player, one of the crowd estimated at 100-150 people. He was transported to nearby Sentara CarePlex Hospital where he was later pronounced dead.

As they mourn, friends and family questioned how this student, who didn’t know how to swim and was typically careful near water, ended up dead

at an event that was supposed to be supervised by university administrators and security in a pool that should have been monitored by lifeguards. David was buried on April 5, the day before he would have turned 18.

Witnesses said that at the party there was music and dancing, along with some horseplay that resulted in people being pushed into the indoor pool.

David’s brother, Daniel, 21, a rising senior at the University of Maryland College Park, said the family is still trying to come to terms with his brother’s death. Their parents, Kemi and Ade Esan, hired an attorney, Jasper Nzedu, a criminal and personal injury lawyer who is president of the Northern Virginia chapter of African Christian Fellowship, USA, shortly after David’s drowning. They have also hired an investigator to conduct a probe independent of the investigations by campus and Hampton City Police Department.

He told the AFRO that the case has not been resolved.

“No, not yet,” he said. “The investigation is still going on.”

Daniel said that the family has received information that verified student statements that David was spotted in the water by the football player, who jumped in, along with other students, to try to save him. “The lifeguard was the last to jump in,” he said.

He said the family has also learned that there were university administrators in the pool area, as university spokeswoman Yuri Milligan said shortly after the incident.

“They were at the gate collecting money,” Daniel said. “You can’t monitor the pool and be at the gate.”

Hampton University police, Hampton city police and Milligan did not return several messages left early this week regarding investigations into David’s death on the campus.

Courtesy Photo

Bowie State University Student Awarded National Scholarship

Iyabode Sodipo

A Bowie State University undergraduate with dreams of becoming an immigration lawyer will travel to her childhood home of Nigeria in the fall to study the Yoruba language, as a recipient of the institution’s Boren Scholarship.

Iyabode Sodipo, 20, a junior criminal justice major from Baltimore, was selected among hundreds of applicants around the nation as one of 160 students to receive the scholarship. Funded by the National Security Education Program, the award promotes international study in areas critical to U.S. interests.

After completing the program, she must work for one year in a national security role with the federal government within three years of graduation.

This summer, Sodipo is enrolled in eight weeks of Yoruba Courtesy Photo

classes at the University of Florida to prepare for international study. In Nigeria, she will immerse herself in the culture by living with a host family and studying the language at the University of Ibadan in the western part of the country. Yoruba is spoken by more than 28 million native speakers worldwide.

An international relations class at Bowie State University exposed her to differences between the U.S. government and laws around the world, but Sodipo has always wanted to work in immigration law and study the traditions of her home country.

“Growing up in a household where my parents and my brother spoke the language made me interested in learning about the language and the culture,” she said in a statement. “I know what it feels like to enter a new world and be unfamiliar with the culture or practice. That’s why one of

my desires is to help those are unable to help themselves due to language barriers.

I also believe that the law has the ability to transform societies and strengthen relationships among nations, thus creating a safer world.”

Sodipo grew up in Nigeria and attended school there until she was 7, when her family moved to the United States. While in Nigeria, she could only speak French or the official language of English in class. Her formal education rarely included information about native Nigerian cultures, making her participation in the Boren program deeply meaningful.

“Honestly, with my family, I think it will strengthen our relationship. Since the majority of my family still lives in Nigeria, I will be able to connect with them more on a personal level,” she said.

August 3, 2013 - August 9, 2013, The Afro-American

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ARTS & CULTURE

On the Go with Essandoh!

By Kam Williams Hypnotizing audiences as D’Artagnan, the slave who was mauled to death by dogs in Django Unchained, Ato Essandoh stars as Dr. Matthew Freeman in the second season of BBC America’s highest-rated series premiere ever, “Copper.” Born in Schenectady, New York on July 29, 1972, Ato also returns as the fan-favorite former carjacker and Watson’s (Lucy Liu) possible replacement, Alfredo Llamosa, in CBS’ “Elementary.”

On the big screen, Ato is widely recognized for his memorable performances in Garden State, Blood Diamond and Hitch, and for equally-stellar work on such TV shows as “Blue Bloods,” “Damages,” “The Good Wife” and “Law & Order,” to name a few. Prior to acting, he studied chemical engineering at Cornell University, where he took a dare to

appear in a stage production of “Paper Moon.”

Ato immediately fell in love with the stage and with acting, and moved to New York City to study under the tutelage of James Price. He went on to do many Off-Broadway shows, even penning his own play and co-founding the writing/performance group “The Defiant Ones.”

Kam Williams: Hi Ato, thanks for the interview.

Ato Essandoh: My pleasure, Kam. KW: You got a degree in engineering from Cornell, my alma mater. So, how did you end up an actor?

AE: Hah! I was randomly offered a part in a play while at school. I was going to turn it down, but my girlfriend at the time insisted that I do it. It was a singularly thrilling

God’s Graffiti: Inspiring Stories for Teens Book Review by Kam Williams

“I was raised in poverty, surrounded by drug dealers, gangs and community violence.

My mother was addicted to crack cocaine and alcohol. I rarely went to church… [Yet] somehow God’s grace found and saved me when no one and nothing else could...

“God’s Graffiti” takes a look at young men and women in the Bible who overcame family and community challenges…

Their stories give us some practical guidance for our own lives.

You have the ability to do amazing things through your faith in God, the courage to try something different, and the help of a few committed people.”

— Excerpted from the Introduction (pages xiv-xv)

had to overcome en route to finally flourishing.

Again and again, from the prostitute Rahab, to the abandoned Ishmael, to the orphaned Esther, to the unfairly accused Joseph, we see how these unlikely heroes ultimately conquered their considerable challenges.

For instance, Moses, the prophet who would part the Red Sea prior to leading his people to the Promised Land, was born a slave. To his credit, he survived being placed as an infant in a basket on which was allowed to drift away on the Nile by a mother desperate to save her son from certain death at the hands of the pharaoh’s henchmen.

Written in a down-to-earth style certain to resonate with the targeted demographic, God’s Graffiti simultaneously addresses such salient subjects as bullying, sex, suicide, eating disorders, drugs, alcohol, divorce and abusive relationships. A timeless tool offering profound, faith-based advice for troubled teens in need of reasons to believe in a better tomorrow.

Sadly, this is an era when the bulk of African-American children are being raised by singlemoms with little investment in their lives on the part of their deadbeat baby-daddies.

The absence of a father figure in the home ostensibly plays a big role in the high dropout, unemployment and crime rates presently plaguing the black community.

Romal Tune could just as easily been another statistic.

After all, his mother was a crack head who never took him to church. And the absence of his dad meant he grew up on the streets where he got mixed-up with the wrong crowd and started dealing drugs by the time he was a teenager.

Miraculously, however, he found Christ and came to see the light and, benefitting from a new purpose, eventually graduated from both Howard University and Duke Divinity School. Today, Reverend Tune routinely ministers to the underserved as the founder of a couple of organizations dedicated to atrisk youth.

God’s Graffiti is a mix of memoir and motivational resource designed as a prescription to put juvenile delinquents on a proper path.

The book’s title was inspired by the author’s observation of how the Lord often “takes what looks like a mess and EMAIL: CUSTOMERSERVICE@AFRO.COM transforms it into something TO REGISTER TO WIN TICKETS! amazing.”

What makes the opus very No purchase Necessary. supplies are limited. one pass per winner. each pass admits two. relevant is how it relies on seating is not guaranteed and is on a first-come, first-served basis. employees of all promotional partners and the afro american are not eligible. all decisions are final. scriptures to remind the reader of the humble beginnings which many a Biblical figure

experience. It just stuck with me.

I found myself back in New York City a few years after graduation and decided to take some acting classes at night after my consulting job.

That was it. I just couldn’t shake it.

bbcamerica.com

Ato Essandoh as Doctor Matthew Freeman on “Copper.”

KW: Congratulations on having two hit TV shows at the same time!

AE: Thanks!

KW: Being American, how did you come to land the role on Copper, a BBC production?

AE: I auditioned. Twice. The second time was in front of Tom Fontana, the show’s creator. I didn’t think I was going to get it.

Months later, on Christmas Eve no less, I got the good news.

KW: Tell me a little about your character, Dr. Matthew Freeman.

AE: Freeman, an ex-slave, is an AfricanAmerican doctor practicing in the notorious “5 Points” New York City neighborhood. He is brilliant, driven and has a keen desire to help others and leave the world in a better place than he found it. That is his solemn duty. Despite the overwhelming bigotry of the times, Freeman strives to remain an example of African-American achievement.

KW: On Elementary, you play a very different character, Alfredo Llamosa, a former carjacker. What’s he like?

AE: Alfredo is cool. He’s lived the proverbial “Hard Knock Life.” He’s turned things around following a bout with drug

addiction and now wants to help others, particularly Sherlock. Like Freeman, Alfredo has the same sense of duty about improving the lives of others. Oh, and he rocks fresh gear!

KW: Which one is more like the real-life you?

AE: It’s close, but I think I lean towards Freeman. But not by much. Yeah, if Freeman and Alfredo had a kid, it would be me.

KW: You were mauled to death in “Django Unchained.” What was it like being directed

by Quentin Tarantino and working opposite Jamie Foxx and Christoph Waltz?

AE: If you’re planning on getting mauled by dogs, this is the most fun you’ll ever have.

Quentin was absolutely a dream to work for.

He’s savant level brilliant and savagely funny.

Jamie and Christoph were charming and generous. Leo, who I’ve worked with before on Blood Diamond, is a consummate pro. I repeat: If you are going to get mauled by dogs, this is the most fun you’ll ever have.

KW: What is the key to your knack for delivering memorable performances in support roles in movies like “Hitch” and “Blood Diamond?”

AE: I just try to help tell the story as best as possible. It helps when you’re working for fantastic directors like Andy Tennant and Ed Zwick. I pretty much just do whatever they tell me.

KW: Thanks again for the time, Ato, and best of luck with both shows.

AE: Thank you kindly, Kam.

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D.C.

The Afro-American, August 3, 2013 - August 9, 2013

CRIME BLOTTER

Prince George’s Man Pleads Guilty in Daylight Kidnapping and Assault

A Capitol Heights man has pled guilty in connection with the abduction, robbery and assault of his pregnant girlfriend, according to a recent news release from the office of U.S. Attorney Ronald C. Machen Jr. According to the release, Christopher Devese, 22, pled on July 9 to kidnapping, assault with a dangerous weapon, robbery, and felony contempt. Sentencing is scheduled for Sept. 13.

Devese faces a likely prison time of four to seven years.

Government evidence in the case showed that April 27, at about 12:30 p.m., Devese chased the victim, his girlfriend, in a car from Capitol Heights into the District. She had called 911 to report the incident. At a gas station in the 4900 block of South Dakota Avenue, NE, Devese smashed the woman’s car window, pulled her out, put her in his car and drove her to an alley, where he beat her in the stomach with his fist, the release said. Devese drove the woman back to Capitol Heights, where he assaulted her again until his mother stepped in to help the victim.

District Man Gets Prison Sentence For Attempted Sexual Assault

Ronnie Moore, 48, of Washington, D.C., was sentenced July 23 to four years in prison on charges stemming from an incident in which he lured a woman into his car and then tried to sexually assault her, announced U.S. Attorney Ronald C. Machen Jr. Moore pled guilty in May to assault with intent to commit first-degree sexual abuse and felony threats. As a result of the plea, Moore must register as a sex offender for the rest of his life and faces 10 years of supervision upon release.

According to evidence, on March 10, 2012, Moore was driving at the intersection of Branch and Pennsylvania avenues S.E. when he saw the victim, then 19, waiting for a bus. Moore offered her a ride after mentioning her mother, whom he knew.

The woman accepted the ride.

As he drove, Moore complimented her and asked if she would have sex with him for money. When she refused, Moore threatened to kill her if she did not comply. The victim punched Moore in the face and eventually was able to escape the car. Moore sped off. On June 20, 2012, the victim saw Moore in line at a supermarket on Alabama Avenue SE. She notified a police officer working in the store and Moore was arrested.

D.C. Man Pleads Guilty to Possession of Child Porn Dustin Metz, 30, of Washington, D.C., pled guilty on July 24 to possession of child pornography, according to a news release from the office of U.S. Attorney Ronald C. Machen Jr. and other officials.

Metz, who is scheduled to be sentenced on Oct. 17, faces up to 20 years in prison and a fine of up to $250,000.

Metz told authorities statement, between September 2012 and April 2013 he possessed child pornography on his home computer. He used a peer-to-peer file sharing program to download to his computer numerous images and videos depicting child porn and made those images and videos available for other users of the program to download. He deleted the images and videos after viewing them.

Officers who executed a search warrant at his home on April 17 seized two laptop computers that provided evidence that he possessed child porn on both. He was arrested on May 9.

District Man Sentenced to Four Years for Stealing from Cars

Antoine Dyson, 42, of Washington, D.C., has been sentenced to a four-year prison term on charges stemming from a Capitol Hill robbery and a theft from an automobile in a downtown parking lot, U.S. Attorney Ronald C. Machen Jr. announced July 25 in a statement.

Dyson pled guilty in May 2013 to robbery and first-degree theft. According to evidence, Dyson stole a briefcase containing an iPad and an iPod from an SUV parked at the Grand Hyatt in the 1000 block of G Street NW. Months later, he stole a wallet from a woman’s purse at the Matchbox restaurant in the 500 block of 8th Street SE. He is suspected in more than 70 car break-ins from January 2011 to November 2012.

Prince George’s County Prince George’s Man Guilty in 2010 Murder of Man inside Downtown Office Building-Disposed of Body in Frederick County Marvin Palencia, 38, of Hyattsville, was found guilty by a jury recently of first-degree murder while armed and other charges in the slaying of a man in a downtown office building, U.S. Attorney Ronald C. Machen Jr. announced in a statement.

Palencia, who was also found guilty of two gun charges and tempering with evidence, is scheduled to be sentenced on Oct. 11.

Authorities said that on Nov. 11, 2010, Palencia shot the victim, Jacobo Vazquez, 36, in the chest and the back of the head in the laundry room of an office building in the 100 block of Constitution Avenue NW. Both men worked there.

Palencia was angry because Vazquez was in a relationship with his wife, from whom he was separated, but hoped to reconcile.

Prior to the murder, Palencia threatened Vazquez and warned him not to return to work. He then purchased a gun illegally and verified Vazquez’s work schedule. After killing Vazquez, Palencia put the body in a cardboard box, wrapped the box in duct tape, plastic, and a cord, and then dumped the body on the side of the road on Interstate 70 in Frederick County, according to the statement.

In his haste to wrap the box, however, Palencia unknowingly attached his work ID to it. He was arrested nine days after the killing.

Baltimore Drug Dealer Who Imported Cocaine Hidden In Flip Flops Gets 15 Years

Lorenzo Solomon, 28, of Baltimore, was sentenced in U.S. District Court in Greenbelt to 188 months in prison June 24 in connection with a conspiracy to import cocaine from St. Vincent and distribute it in Maryland, according to an announcement by U. S. Attorney for the District of Maryland Rod J. Rosenstein and other officials.

Solomon’s sentence was enhanced after officials determined that the drug dealer was the leader of the conspiracy and that he obstructed justice by attempting to intimidate witnesses to prevent them from testifying against him.

According to the evidence presented at Solomon’s four-day trial, between April and December 2010, Solomon arranged with his co-conspirators in St. Vincent to send him packages containing up to a kilogram of cocaine at a time hidden in the soles of flip-flops. The shoes were then mailed to his home and the addresses of others in Maryland, the statement said.

To pay for the drugs, witnesses testified that Solomon arranged to have several friends and family members send large amounts of cash via Western Union and Moneygram, most frequently in $2,000 increments, which Solomon provided them. According to court documents, more than 17 individuals sent a total of $117,270 from the U.S. to St. Vincent between April and November 2010.

According to trial testimony, Customs and Border Protection (CBP) officers, on November 26, 2010, intercepted a package of the cocaine-filled shoes that were earmarked for Solomon, but were addressed to one of his friends who lives in Takoma Park. Investigators then tried to deliver the package on Dec. 6, 2010, but got no response. They left a note on the door announcing the package and provided a number for the person to arrange delivery. At Solomon’s direction, delivery of the package was arranged for the next day. After the package was delivered, phone records show that a call was placed to Solomon to let him know of the delivery. A short time later, HSI agents executed a search warrant, recovering the drugs.

Co-conspirator Ronnie George was also arrested after he arrived to pick up the package for Solomon.

Solomon left the area, eventually traveling to St. Vincent, where, in February 2011, he filed paperwork with the St. Vincent government to form a business, apparently in an effort to create a cover story as to why he had sent so much money to St. Vincent. Solomon returned to the United States in March 2011. On April 6, 2011, George and Solomon were indicted on drug conspiracy charges. George was arrested and pleaded guilty, but Solomon was not located until after George’s sentencing in March 2012.

According to witness testimony, Solomon pressed a woman witness to change her story to keep him from being implicated in the drug conspiracy. Some witnesses told authorities they or members of their families had been threatened. Because of the threats, Solomon was jailed on the first day of the trial, March 12, where he remains.

George, 27, of Owings Mills, pled guilty and received one year and one day, the statement said.

Baltimore Upper Marlboro Man Convicted in Conspiracy to Steal $1.4 million from Baltimore Housing Authority

A federal jury on July 24 convicted Daren Kareem Gadsden, aka “D,” 36, of Upper Marlboro, for conspiring to steal almost $1.4 million from a Baltimore City Housing Authority bank account, according to a statement by U. S. Attorney for the District of Maryland Rod J. Rosenstein and other officials.

“Daren Gadsden stole from the Baltimore City Housing Authority by transferring money directly out of the Authority’s bank account,” said Rosenstein. “The $1,399,700 in taxpayer funds stolen from the Baltimore City Housing Authority was supposed to be used to provide housing, not to line the pockets of criminals.”

According to evidence in the case, in 2009, Gadsden owned a property in Baltimore that was rented to a low income individual whose rental payments were paid by the Housing Authority of Baltimore City directly to Gadsden’s bank account. Witnesses testified that in late 2009 and 2010, Gadsden made a series of inquiries to another bank where he had an account about how to use his computer to make electronic transfers to and from his account at that bank.

In early 2010, the Housing Authority lost a few thousand dollars when a series of unauthorized electronic transfers

debited funds out of the Housing Authority’s account and into Gadsden’s bank account. After being confronted by Housing Authority officials, Gadsden denied any wrongdoing, but paid the Housing Authority $1,400 to cover some of its losses, according to the statement.

In 2010, Gadsden and several co-defendants conspired to execute a larger scheme. Gadsden contacted Tyeast Brown to plan the fraud. Brown, in turn, contacted William Alvin Darden and Keith Eugene Daughtry, securing from Daughtry his social security card and birth certificate, which she provided to Darden. On May 19, 2010, Darden obtained a Maryland driver’s license with his photograph, but in Daughtry’s name, using Daughtry’s social security card and birth certificate as proof of identity. Darden then used the fraudulent license to open a bank account in the name of Keith Daughtry Contracting LLC. Gadsden had registered the entity with the state of Maryland. Darden also provided a mailing address for the company that was a rented mailing store mailbox.

According to testimony, beginning in July 2010, Gadsden and his co-conspirators electronically transferred funds from the Housing Authority account into the Keith Daughtry Contracting LLC account. Then they electronically moved the money to other banks and made cash withdrawals from in person and from ATMs. Gadsden faces a maximum sentence of 30 years in prison and a $1 million fine for the bank fraud conspiracy and 22 years for additional crimes. Sentencing is set for October 24.

Tyeast Brown, aka “Peaches,” 42, of Suitland; William Alvin Darden, 46, of Washington, D.C; and Keith Eugene Daughtry, 52, of Washington, D.C., all pled guilty in the scheme. Daughtry and Brown were sentenced to 41 months and 36 months in prison, respectively, and each was ordered to pay restitution of $1,399,700. Darden is expected to be sentenced later this year.

August 3, 2013 - August 9, 2013, The Afro-American

B5

SPORTS

Ravens Sign Former Morgan State tight end Visanthe Shianco

Photos by John Moore

By Perry Green AFRO Sports Editor Visanthe Shiancoe has returned to Baltimore City.

After being drafted out of Morgan State University (Baltimore) into the NFL 10 years, the Washington D.C. native and current P.G. County resident has signed with the Baltimore Ravens. He signed a one-year deal worth the veteran minimum of $940,000.

Shiancoe played 148 games, 90 as a starting tight end, for three different teams, including the

NFL’s Forgotten Who Deserve a Place in the Hall of Fame

We are fast approaching the NFL Hall of Fame induction ceremonies, and for me this is a bittersweet time. Year after year I have to sit in front of my TV and wonder what kind of drugs some of the sport writer voters are taking. When I look at the selections and wonder why so many notable players are being left off the winners list I have to bite my tongue when I yell at my TV. I am aware that some of the voters weren’t born when some of the neglected players were plying their trade on the gridiron. But, that is no excuse. I remember the old dude saying, “If you don’t know, ask somebody.” There are some young readers who don’t know what I am talking about, but if they follow this process they will be reminded how former Washington Redskins receiver Art Monk was shunned for so many years. When Art retired he

Former Morgan State tight end Visanthe Shianco signs with the Baltimore Ravens.

New York Giants (four years), Minnesota Vikings (five years) and most recently the New England Patriots. Now he’s a Raven after being picked up to help fill a void after Ravens’ starting tight end Dennis Pitta suffered a season-ending hip injury during the first week of training camp. “[Pitta’s injury] is unfortunate, but it’s almost just like the next guy has to step up, and the team has to go on and still prepare,” Shiancoe said. “They owe it to the fans; they owe it to themselves.”

The 33-year-old tight end will compete for the backup tight-end position behind four-year veteran had stats rivaling those of Jerry Rice and a ring on his finger. Finally somebody woke up and decided he deserved a spot in the Hall.

I can make an argument for quite a few deserving players, like Monk, who don’t have a place in Canton. Local fans will remember the 1958 Championship game between the New York Giants and Baltimore Colts. Fortunately the Colts won, but the Giants had a Hall of Fame worthy QB in Charlie Conerly. Charlie came into the league in1948 and was voted Rookie of the Year. He was League MVP in 1959 even after his loss to the Colts of the previous year. I have two fond memories of Conerly: his loss to my beloved Colts in ’58 and his post-retirement role as the Marlboro Man on TV. Unfortunately the hatred for the then Los Angeles Raiders has caused some bias in the HOF voting.

Raiders quarterback Ken Stabler was affectionately known as “the Snake.” For fans fortunate enough to see him work, they saw a left-handed magician.

Ken was selected for the Pro Bowl four times. He was among those voted to the all-decade team of the ‘70s. And, he was able to add a little jewelry to his collection resulting from his Super Bowl win against the Minnesota Vikings.

Former quarterback Jim Plunkett is another

Ed Dickson; the Ravens had plans of using a twotight end formation often this coming season so Shiancoe may end up serving in a very productive role in the team’s offensive game plan.

In 10 years, the 6-foot-4, 250-pound red-zone target has caught 243 catches for 2,677 yards (11.0 avg.) and 27 touchdowns. His most productive season was in 2009 when he shagged a careerhigh 56 catches for 566 yards and a career-best 11 touchdowns.

Shiancoe was also a productive tight end while at Morgan State, catching 52 passes for 1001 yards in 30 career games for the university. He led Morgan State to its most recent NCAA Division I-AA playoffs appearance during his senior season in 2003 while also earning all Mid-Eastern Athletic Conference (MEAC) First Team honors.

“I’m going to work as hard as I can,” Shiancoe said during his first Ravens practice. “Nothing is given. You have to earn everything, and I understand that. That’s what I’ve come in here to do. I have come in here nice and humble.”

Raider who can’t get any love from the voters.

Jim was Rookie of the Year, Comeback Player of the Year, and won Super Bowls with two different teams. He was voted Super Bowl MVP, and when he retired he had 25,000 yards passing. The irony in all of this is these guys played when the quarterback wasn’t treated as though he was wearing a dress.

When it comes to being worthy of Hall of Fame consideration, I think these guys should not be among the forgotten, but be in line in front of quite a few who have been enshrined. But, that is just my opinion.

There is an amusing story connected to quarterbacks that I would like to share. When Hall of Fame QB Terry Bradshaw was at Louisiana Tech, he was back-up to Phil Robertson. Both were drafted by the NFL, but Phil missed the woods of Louisiana and returned home to hunt ducks and whatever else was in season.

Terry parlayed his NFL career in to a small fortune, while Phil invented a duck call that has garnered his family multi-millions. This is not an advertisement, but if you like humorous TV, tune in to Duck Dynasty for the antics of Phil Robertson’s bunch of backwoods millionaires.

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Online reservations: www.holidayoc.com TYPESET: Wed Jul 31 LEGAL NOTICES IN THE CIRCUIT COURT FOR BALTIMORE CITY Case No.: 24-D-13-001597 IN THE MATTER OF Harry Gaines Jr. FOR CHANGE OF NAME TO Jerome Harry Gaines, Jr. ORDER FOR NOTICE BY PUBLICATION The object of this suit is to officially change the name of the petitioner from Harry Gaines Jr. to Jerome Harry Gaines, Jr. It is this 10th day of July, 2013 by the Circuit Court for Baltimore City, ORDERED, that publication be given one time in a newspaper of general circulation in Baltimore City on or before the 12th day of August, 2013, which shall warn all interested persons to file an affidavit in opposition to the relief requested on or before the 27th day of August, 2013 Frank M. Conaway Clerk 8/2/13

TYPESET: Wed Jul 31 16:49:44 EDT 2013

LEGAL NOTICES

ADVERTISEMENT FOR BIDS ALLEGANY COUNTY COMMISSIONERS CUMBERLAND, MARYLAND RAWLINGS WATER PROJECT - PHASE II CONTRACT NO. W-35 Sealed bids will be received by the Allegany County Commissioners until 3:00 p.m., local time, Tuesday, September 10, 2013, in the County Office Complex, 701 Kelly Road, Suite 407, Cumberland, Maryland 21502 for the Rawlings Water Project - Phase II, Contract No. W-35 consisting of 7500´ of water line, 100 house connections, and other miscellaneous work. Bids will then be opened at 3:00 p.m. by the Clerk in the Commissioners Meeting Room #100.

Copies of the Contract Specifications and Drawings may be obtained between the hours of 8:00 a.m. and 4:00 p.m. only, excluding Saturdays, Sundays, and holidays, at the Allegany County Department of Public Works upon payment of $100.00 per set payable to the Allegany County Commissioners. An additional $20.00 per set will be charged for shipping and handling. Payment for Contract Documents is non-refundable.

The Contract Documents may be examined at the Allegany County Department of Public Works, 701 Kelly Road, Suite 300, Cumberland, Maryland and the Plans Room of Dodge Baltimore, Baltimore, Maryland and Altoona Builders Exchange, Altoona, Pennsylvania. Complete Advertisement for Bids and the Bidder´s List are available on the Allegany County website www.gov.allconet.org.

BIDDERS must purchase the contract documents directly from Allegany County to submit a bid for consideration.

A pre-bid meeting for the purpose of answering or obtaining answers to questions of parties interested in contracting for the work, will be conducted at the Allegany County Office Building, Commissioners Meeting Room #100, 701 Kelly Road, Cumberland, Maryland at 10:30 a.m., local time, on Tuesday, August 27, 2013. Bidder attendance is encouraged but not mandatory. Please direct any project questions to Jim Webber, UtilitiesEDT Division, TYPESET: Wed Jul 31P.E., 13:04:48 2013 at 301-777-5942, ext. 208.

CITY OF BALTIMORE DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION NOTICE OF LETTING Sealed Bids or Proposals, in duplicate addressed to the Board of Estimates of the Mayor and City Council of Baltimore and marked for TR14007 RESURFACING HIGHWAYS AT VARIOUS LOCATIONS SECTOR III will be received at the Office of the Comptroller, Room 204 City Hall, Baltimore, Maryland until 11:00 A.M. AUGUST 28, 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 AUGUST 2, 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 the Eastern Avenue Pumping Station, 751 Eastern Avenue and President St, 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 A02601, Bituminous Concrete Paving and D02620, Curbs, Gutters & Sidewalks. Cost Qualification Range for this work shall be $2,000,000.00 to $3,000,000.00 A Pre-Bidding Information session will be conducted at 10:00 A.M. on AUGUST 16, 2013 at the Charles L. Benton Building, 417 E. Fayette Street, 7th Floor, Baltimore, MD 21201. Principal Items of work for this project are: Removal of HMA 0-3 Depth 35,000S.Y.; Hot Mix Asphalt Superpave - Surface Various Types 5,000TONS. The MBE goal is 21% The WBE goal is 7% APPROVED:

Bernice H. Taylor, Clerk TYPESET: Wed Jul 31 13:05:56 EDT 2013 Board of Estimates

CITY OF BALTIMORE DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION NOTICE OF LETTING Sealed Bids or Proposals, in duplicate addressed to the Board of Estimates of the Mayor and City Council of Baltimore and marked for TR14009 CONDUIT SYSTEM RECONSTRUCTION AT VARIOUS LOCATIONS CITYWIDE (JOC) will be received at the Office of the Comptroller, Room 204 City Hall, Baltimore, Maryland until 11:00 A.M. AUGUST 28, 2013. Positively no bids will be received after 11:00 A.M. Bids will2013 be publicly opened by the Board of 13:06:19 EDT 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 AUGUST 2, 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 the Eastern Avenue Pumping Station, 751 Eastern Avenue and President St, 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 B02553, Duct Line Construction. Cost Qualification Range for this work shall be $2,000,000.00 to $3,000,000.00 A Pre-Bidding Information session will be conducted at 10:00 A.M. on AUGUST 16, 2013 at the Charles L. Benton Building, 417 E. Fayette Street, 7th Floor, Baltimore, MD 21201. Principal Items of work for this project are: Concrete Encased Ducts 8,000L.F.; Rodding Existing Ducts 50,000L.F.; Slugging Existing Ducts 30,000L.F.

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TYPESET: Wed Jul 31 13:06:42 EDT 2013 City of Baltimore Department of Finance Bureau of Purchases

HOUSING AUTHORITY OF BALTIMORE CITY REQUEST FOR PROPOSALS ACCOUNTING AND BUDGETING TECHNICAL ASSISTANCE RFP NUMBER: B-1732-13 The Housing Authority of Baltimore City (HABC) requests proposals from qualified firms to provide assistance related to the accounting and budgeting areas.

The selected consultant must have extensive experience providing the same or comparable services to large public housing authorities and community development agencies. Experience with and involvement in the month-end and year-end financial closeout, project-based accounting and budgeting, budget-to-actual analyses is also required.

PROPOSALS WILL BE DUE no later than 2:00 p.m. Eastern Time on Wednesday, September 4, 2013.

A non-mandatory pre-proposals conference will be held on Wednesday, August 21, 2013 at 10:00 a.m., at 417 E. Fayette Street, Room 416, Baltimore, Maryland, 21202.

Sealed proposals addressed to the Board of Estimates of Baltimore, will be received until, but not later than 11:00 a.m. local time on the following date(s) for the stated requirements: AUGUST 21, 2013 COPIER EQUIPMENT B50003035

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THE ENTIRE SOLICITATION DOCUMENT CAN BE VIEWED AND DOWN LOADED BY VISITING THE CITYS WEB SITE: TYPESET: Wed Jul 31 15:07:32 EDT 2013 www.baltimorecitibuy.org

The Housing Authority of Baltimore City (HABC) will issue a Request for Proposals (RFP) for interested and qualified firms to submit proposals to provide debt collection services for vacated tenants who formerly resided at the HABC housing sites as well as collection services relating to delinquent health insurance premium payments from current and retired employees, and reimbursement of tuition assistance payments from former employees.

CITY OF BALTIMORE DEPARTMENT OF GENERAL SERVICES 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 GS 13807-MECU Building Window Replacement will be received at the Office of the Comptroller, Room 204, City Hall, Baltimore, Maryland until 11:00 A.M. on Wednesday, August 28, 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, August 2, 2013 and copies may be purchased for a nonrefundable 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 F08500-Windows Cost Qualification Range for this work shall be $500,000.01 to $1,000,000.00 A Pre-Bidding Information session will be conducted at The Site, 401 East Fayette Street, Baltimore, MD 21202 on Tuesday, August 13, 2013 at 10:00 A.M. Principal Items of work for this project are: 1. Window Replacement

PROPOSALS WILL BE DUE no later than 2:00 p.m. Eastern Time on Thursday, September 5, 2013.

The MBE goal is 27% The WBE goal is 9%

HABC has established a minimum threshold of twenty percent (20%) of the total dollar amount of the proposed contract for Minority Business Enterprise (MBE) utilization, applicable to all minority and non-minority businesses proposing to provide the requested services as the prime contractor. No threshold has been established for participation of Women-owned businesses (WBEs), however, HABC strongly encourages and affirmatively promotes the use of WBEs in all HABC contracts.

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

The RFP and all supporting documents may be examined and obtained on or after Monday, August 12, 2013, at the following location: Housing Authority of Baltimore City Division of Fiscal Operations, Procurement Department 417 E. Fayette Street, Room 414 Baltimore, Maryland 21202 Attention: John Airey, Chief of Contracting Services Tel: (410) 396-3261 Fax: (410) 962-1586 Questions regarding the RFP should be directed in writing to the address and

individual indicated above, and must include the reference: HABC RFP Number TYPESET: B-1732-13.Wed Jul 31 13:04:27 EDT 2013 HOUSING AUTHORITY OF BALTIMORE CITY REQUEST FOR PROPOSALS DEBT COLLECTION SERVICES RFP NUMBER: B-1733-13

A non-mandatory pre-proposals conference will be held on Thursday, August 22, 2013, at 10:00 a.m., at 417 E. Fayette Street, Room 416, Baltimore, Maryland, 21202.

HABC has established a minimum goal of twenty percent (20%) of the total dollar amount of the proposed contract for Minority Business Enterprise (MBE) utilization, applicable to all minority and non-minority businesses proposing to provide the requested services as the prime contractor. No goal has been established for participation of Women-owned businesses (WBEs), however, HABC strongly encourages and affirmatively promotes the use of WBEs in all HABC contracts.

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

The RFP may be obtained on or after Tuesday, August 13, 2013, at the following location: Housing Authority of Baltimore City Division of Fiscal Operations, Purchasing Department 417 E. Fayette Street, Room 414 Baltimore, Maryland 21202 Attention: John Airey, Chief of Contracting Services Tel: (410) 396-3261 Fax: (410) 962-1586 Questions regarding the RFP should be directed in writing to the address and individual indicated above, and must include the reference: HABC RFP Number

TYPESET: B-1733-13. Wed Jul 31 13:05:12 EDT 2013

The MBE goal is 22% The WBE goal is 8% APPROVED: Bernice H. Taylor, Clerk Board of Estimates TYPESET: Wed Jul 31 13:05:33 EDT 2013 CITY OF BALTIMORE DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION NOTICE OF LETTING Sealed Bids or Proposals, in duplicate addressed to the Board of Estimates of the Mayor and City Council of Baltimore and marked for TR14010 CONDUIT SYSTEM RECONSTRUCTION FOR URGENT NEEDS AT VARIOUS LOCATIONS CITYWIDE (JOC) will be received at the Office of the Comptroller, Room 204 City Hall, Baltimore, Maryland until 11:00 A.M. AUGUST 28, 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 AUGUST 2, 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 the Eastern Avenue Pumping Station, 751 Eastern Avenue and President St, 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 B02553, Duct Line Construction.

Cost Qualification Range for this work shall be $2,000,000.00 to $3,000,000.00 A Pre-Bidding Information session will be conducted at 10:00 A.M. on AUGUST 16, 2013 at the Charles L. Benton Building, 417 E. Fayette Street, 7th Floor, Baltimore, MD 21201. Principal Items of work for this project are: Concrete Encased Ducts 8,000L.F.; Rodding Existing Ducts 50,000L.F.; Slugging Existing Ducts 30,000L.F. The MBE goal is 12% The WBE goal is 2% APPROVED: Bernice H. Taylor, Clerk Board of Estimates

APPROVED: Bernice H. Taylor Clerk, Board of Estimates APPROVED: Steve Sharkey Director, Department of General Services

Strictly Personal Pen Pal

Down Home Single Lady, Brown skinned lady; 5’6”, full-figure, hazel eyes, 50 years old. My hobbies are cooking for tow, listening to music, DVD’s, good conversation and quiet evenings. I would like to meet someone with similar interests. Age 50-65 years old.

He must be sober and anti-drug addict and free from incarceration. He must have a house, transportation and employment or retirement. Send photo and phone number, or box number.

Brenda Johnson, 120 Terragon Road, Reisterstown, Maryland 21136.

Lonesome Hearts - Pen Pals

To have a notice published in the Strictly Personal Section, write the message you want printed in the space below. Enclose ten dollars ($10.00), check or money order for 25 words. NO CASH PLEASE. Additional words will cost 50 cents each.

SUBSCRIBE TODAY!

CITY OF BALTIMORE DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION NOTICE OF LETTING Sealed Bids or Proposals, in duplicate addressed to the Board of Estimates of the Mayor and City Council of Baltimore and marked for TR14006 RESURFACING HIGHWAYS AT VARIOUS LOCATIONS SECTOR II will be received at the Office of the Comptroller, Room 204 City Hall, Baltimore, Maryland until 11:00 A.M. AUGUST 28, 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 AUGUST 2, 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 the Eastern Avenue Pumping Station, 751 Eastern Avenue and President St, 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 A02601, Bituminous Concrete Paving and D02620, Curbs, Gutters & Sidewalks. Cost Qualification Range for this work shall be $2,000,000.00 to $3,000,000.00 A Pre-Bidding Information session will be conducted at 10:00 A.M. on AUGUST 16, 2013 at the Charles L. Benton Building, 417 E. Fayette Street, 7th Floor, Baltimore, MD 21201. Principal Items of work for this project are: Removal of HMA 0-3 Depth 35,000S.Y.; Hot Mix Asphalt Superpave - Surface Various Types 5,000TONS.

CONTRACT NO. GS 13807

To answer a Lonesome Heart notice, enclose a check or money order for $2.00 for each letter you wish to have forwarded.

NO CASH PLEASE. Be sure to include the box number of the person you wish to contact.

All letters, queries and notices should be sent to: STRICTLY PERSONAL 2519 N. Charles Street Baltimore, MD 21218 NO PHONE CALLS PLEASE!

B7

OBITUARIES Margaret M. Breckenridge, 97 Hutzler Brothers Employee Margaret Mae Breckenridge, 97, died, January 10, 2013.

She was a 1932 gradaute of Frederick Douglas High School, Baltimore, MD and a former member of St. Peter Claver Catholic Church. She was employed with Hutzler Brothers Department Store until retirement.

Her funeral was

MARGARET M. BRECKENRIDGE

held at Oscar’s Memorial Chapel with the Reverend Brian Cornelius officiating.

Burial will follow at New Bern Memorial Cemetery.

She is survived by her son, Arnold Eugene Breckenridge, Sr. of Baltimore; two grandchildren, five greatgrandchildren and four great-greatgrandchildren.

Arrangements

by Oscar’s Mortuary, Inc

Leslie B. Wood, Carpenter

Leslie Braxton Wood, the middle child of seven sons of the late Frank Tucker Wood and Julia Braxton Wood was born on July 12, 1917 in Gloucester County, Va. He departed this life on Feb. 24, 2013 at Levindale Geriatric Center and Hospital in Baltimore following an extended illness.

Leslie attended school in a oneroom schoolhouse. In 1936 he completed the eleventh grade, the highest grade available to him in public school at the time. Leslie saved his money for three years in order to have funds to attend North Carolina A and T College. He completed his undergraduate studies at what is now Morgan State University in 1950, earning a bachelor’s degree in Business.

Leslie’s Christian faith was LESLIE B. WOOD nurtured through his years of worship and service at Union Zion Church in Gloucester, where he was baptized at an early age. Leslie served in the U.S. Army during World War II and was honorably discharged with the rank of Sergeant. Later he lived and worked for some time in Washington, D.C. Leslie and Hattie Mathias Wood were united in marriage and enjoyed years of devoted work together on business ventures, mission projects and in dedicated service to others. They were active worshipers at Providence until Hattie’s death in February 1976.

A skilled carpenter, Leslie constructed unique and useful articles to enhance the church and support various special activities and initiatives. It was Leslie who built the wooden model of the church that serves as the collection vessel for the mortgage drive. Leslie’s skilled handy work can be seen throughout the church, in such unique and well-made items as: clothes racks in the men’s and women’s choir room, shelving in the emergency food pantry, and a number of other wooden fixtures and artifacts throughout the church.

As a man of strong faith and solid beliefs, Leslie was an ordained deacon at Providence who served the Lord faithfully, in the church and in the community. For many years he transported children from the neighborhood and beyond to Sunday School, Baptist Evening Fellowship and Vacation Church School.

Four of Leslie’s brothers, Frank, Alan, Levi and Lockley preceded him in death. Brothers, Marcus (Bessie) and Garnett (Frances) celebrates his life and mourn his passing. His memory is also cherished by his niece, Betty Wood Crawley (Dr. Vernon Crawley). Betty lived with Leslie and Hattie and was an integral part of their family from the age of twelve.

Leslie’s memory is held dear by many nieces, nephews, grand-nieces and nephews, his Providence Church family and other relatives and friends.

Free Service Obituaries are printed for free by the AFROAmerican Newspapers. Send funeral program and picture to: Obituaries, The Baltimore Afro-American, 2519 N. Charles Street, Baltimore, Md. 21218

B8

The Afro-American, August 3, 2013 - August 9, 2013

“See the curtains hanging’ in the window in the evening on a Friday night a little light a-shining’ through the window lets me know everything’s all right. Summer breeze makes me feel fine blowing’ through the jasmine in my mind…Sweet days of summer, the jasmine’s in bloom July is dressed up and playing her tune.

Summer breeze makes me feel fine blowing’ through the jasmine in my mind” —Isley Brothers

Watson and people from all parts of Maryland converging on this Eastern Shore city by bus, boat, planes and cars for this annual outing.

People enjoyed the delectable treats from the Eastern Shore including fresh corn on the cob, steamed clams, hush puppies, fried fish and Smith Island chocolate cake. A special thanks to Bruce Bereano’s and his staff for providing a sanctuary from the heat inside his tents complete with cooling fans on high speed.

“When it’s over face the truth and dry your eyes…” —Les McCann

“I am thankful for the mess to clean after a party because it means I have been surrounded by friends.” —Nancie Carmody

Just when summer gets started it’s over, but what a summer it has been, from summer concerts in the park, cruising on the Chesapeake, walking the beach, eating crabs with friends, cooking out, picnics on the beach, late night pool parties it has been a magical time creating memories that will last forever. I can’t wait for my vacation to get some rest. LOL (Laughing out Loud.)

“It’s getting hot in here…” The heat was gruesome Wednesday afternoon but it didn’t stop the crowds attending one of the largest outdoor crab feasts in Crisfield, Md. It was a who’s who of Maryland politics with current and former elected officials including former Gov. Marvin Mandel, Lt. Gov. Anthony Brown, Sen. Joan Conway, Del. Cheryl Glenn, Sen. Delores Kelly, Paula Johnson Branch, Fred and Lavonne Grant, Will Jackson, Anthony Jones, Comptroller Pete Franchot, Tony White, Councilman Ken Oliver, Jeffrey Johnson, Karenthia Barber, Rosa Barber, Del. Keiffer Mitchell, Patti Burr, Graham Henry, Cleve and Nancy Brister, Donald and Ailene

Ice cream sundaes, assorted cakes, baby back ribs and mounds of food greeted the arrival of guests at the palatial home of Marty and Thalia Resnick for a BBQ honoring Lt. Gov. Anthony Brown. Marty and Thalia were gracious hosts as they invited guests to enjoy the elegant poolside seating or their spacious home on a pleasant Monday evening. Sitting poolside were Sheriff John Anderson, Sheriff Jay Fisher, Del. Ken Oliver, Del. Vicki Almond, Frank Babusci, Arnold Cohen, Rex Smith, Clinton Buise, William Jernigan, Guss Moghadam, Russell Brannan, Frank Coakley, Maury Kafami, Rofman Spirt, Curtis Jones, Debbie Allen, members of the Morgan State University Board of Regents and Nicolas and Leah Abram. Martin’s staff, under the direction of Bill Fisher and Rodney Winkler, was superb.

“I’m getting married in the morning’!

Ding-dong the bells are gonna chime. Pull out the stopper! Let’s have a whopper! But get me to the church on time!” —My Fair Lady

The invitation asked us to join Jackie Robinson at her Upper Park Heights home for happy hour to celebrate her birthday. What a surprise when guests arrived and realized they were there to celebrate the marriage of Jackie and William Brown who had earlier in the afternoon been united in holy matrimony by Rev. Allen Robinson and witnessed by her dad Dr. H. B, Burrell and Katie Burrell..

“Faith is the first factor in a life devoted to service. Without it, nothing is possible. With it, nothing is impossible.” —Mary McLeod Bethune On Sept. 19, 1963 Lonnie Spruill, Frank Coakley, Webster Lewis, Charles Brown Charles Gregory, Charles Briscoe, Michael Williams, Elias Dorsey, Albert Hicks and Barron Willis founded Iota Phi Theta Fraternity, an organization committed to service, on the campus of Morgan State University. Congratulations as you celebrate your 50th anniversary during a weeklong conclave in Baltimore Aug. 11, 2013.

“We’ve only just begun to live… white lace and promises, a kiss for luck and we’re on our way. … Sharing horizons that are new to us/ watching the signs along the way/ talking’ it over, just the two of us/ working’ together day to day…” —The Carpenters Happy first anniversary to Aja and Walter Hill III, happy anniversary Sarah and Eugene Smalley, happy 50th anniversary Elvard and Rita Cooper. It is amazing how time flies.

Happy 21st anniversary to my daughter and

son- in- law Lisa and Gregory Packer. I’m so blessed to have the best son-in-law in the world.

“We gonna celebrate and have a good time.

It’s time to come together It’s up to you, what’s your pleasure” —Kool & the Gang Happy birthday President Barack Obama, Danise Smith, Judson Wood, Wesley Wood, Sharon Price-Walker, Little Daniel Henson, Brianna Henson and Mayor Jeffrey Slavin.

“She was only sixteen, only sixteen I loved her so but she was too young to fall in love and I was too young to know.” —Sam Cooke Rejai Hagar knows the sky is the limit when she hosted her sweet-sixteen birthday party at Paparazzi.

Bedazzled in sparkles she arrived in a limousine with bodyguards who escorted her down the red carpet where two hundred of her fans awaited her arrival including mom Marquida Gaskin and grandparents Richard and Demetrease Davis. This innovative 16-year-old solicited business owners to sponsor this special party.

“I’m looking here and there and I’m searching everywhere” —Bobby Womack The search is over. Chef Patrick and manager Tony are now at Pearls, 2578 Hollins Street, in an exciting new atmosphere serving great food to satisfy your discerning palate.

“I’ll be seeing you” —Valerie & the Friday Night Bunch

Rap Group Reunites on 2008 Election Day in Dream Deferred Drama Big Words Film Review by Kam Williams It’s November 4, 2008, and Brooklyn is bristling with anticipation about the impending election returns to see whether or not Barack Obama will be the nation’s first AfricanAmerican president. But the magic of the moment is pretty much lost on John aka MC Wordsmith (Dorian Missick), James aka Jay-V (Gbenga Akinnagbe) and Terry aka DJ Malik (Darien Sills-Evans), despite the fact that they’re black and hail from the ‘hood.

Back in the early Nineties, the three shared a brief promising career as the Down Low Poets, a fledgling hip-hop group which produced a video, two singles and an unreleased album before disappearing from the record-biz radar. The band disbanded, went their separate ways and lost touch entirely.

Today, with Obama poised to make history, we find each consumed by a personal crisis. John has just been laid off from his job as an IT technician. James is now a book publicist in a stagnant relationship and considering seducing his handsome, young intern (Zachary Booth). Only Terry is still an aspiring rap star, and stubbornly refuses to see the handwriting on the wall after a couple of decades squandered desperately trying to

make it in the music business.

By a twist of fate, their paths cross at an election night party where Obama’s achievement only serves as a distracting backdrop. Proving far more compelling are the personal questions being raised. What are John’s chances with the stripper (Yaya Alafia) he just picked up at a go-go bar?

Will out-of-the-closet James’ once-hidden homosexuality remain a block to repairing relationships with his former pals, especially his cousin, John? Will Terry drop the hip-hop moniker, pull up his pants, and get a real job?

Written and directed by Neil Drumming, Big Words is a perfectly plausible, character-driven drama with only one glaring flaw. Why bother to set an African-American tale on Election Night 2008, if you plan to give Obama’s triumph such short shrift?

A poignant portrait of a very eventful day in the lives of a trio too self-absorbed to care about who was about to win the White House.

Very Good (HHH) Unrated Running time: 94 minutes Distributor: AFFRM / Twice Told Films rottentomatoes.com