Baltimore Afro American Newspaper January 24 2015

www.afro.comJanuary 24, 2015 - January 24, 2015,

Volume 123 No. 25

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The Afro-American

Nation’s #1 African American Newspaper 2014 Nielsen-Essence Consumer Report

JANUARY 24, 2015 - JANUARY 30, 2015

President Obama: ‘Don’t Turn the Page Yet’

By Gloria Browne-Marshall AANIC Correspondent

AFRO Series–Part Two

Few Jobs for Blacks in Silicon Valley

By Kamau High Special to the AFRO

Unless you are a White or Asian male, you are unlikely

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to work at some of the biggest technology companies in America. And while things like President Obama’s recent efforts to make community college free for more people are attempts to change that, the lack of diversity in the tech field is likely to take some time to change. So, minus a new civil rights movement focused on forcing technology companies to increase the number of women and minorities they hire, what can be done?

The AFRO spoke with a range of recruiters, outside organizations and people who have forged their own path to make Silicon Valley more equal in its hiring practices.

Two ideas emerged from these conversations: 1) Don’t wait for the government to help you because it will take a

President Obama’s State of the Union speech titled “Turn the Page” made clear – he is no lame-duck. With an ambitious agenda, and less than two years to complete it, time is running out for him to take on the issues in urban communities.

The mid-term elections cost Democrats the U.S. Senate. But, President Obama was optimistic about the future of America. Black-Americans who gave the largest percent of their votes (97 percent) to re-elect him did not see much in his speech that directly addressed their issues.

The President spoke forcefully about protecting labor unions, gay rights, the environment, and even intellectual property, but failed to clearly address concerns within urban communities, Continued on A3

President Obama delivers his State of the Union address to a joint session of Congress on Capitol Hill on Jan. 20.

White House

Hogan Ushers in New Era for Maryland

By Shawn Massie Morgan State University News Service Amid a fluffy snowstorm outside of the statehouse in Annapolis, Larry Hogan was sworn in as Maryland’s 62nd governor -- the second in four decades.

“They said it was going to be a cold day in hell before we elected a Republican governor,” he joked at the start of a 15-minute speech where he pledged to follow “a real bipartisan approach for the serious problems” the Continued on A5

Continued on A4

States Attorney Vows Appeal after Judge Dismisses Charges in Death of Phylicia Barnes

By Roberto Alejandro Special to the AFRO A Baltimore judge has dismissed charges against Michael Maurice Johnson in the 2010 death of Phylicia Barnes. Baltimore City State’s Attorney Marilyn Mosby has vowed to appeal the decision, arguing that the trial judge, John Addison Howard, lacked jurisdiction to dismiss the charges.

Phylicia Barnes disappeared in late 2010 and was later discovered floating in the Susquehanna River. Michael

Maurice Johnson was charged with second degree murder in Barnes’s death and convicted in 2013, but that conviction was overturned because the prosecution failed to disclose discrediting evidence against one of its key witnesses, according to Russel Neverdon, Johnson’s defense attorney in his first trial.

According to Neverdon, the State’s Attorney’s case against Johnson was “riddled with problems.”

“There was no physical evidence Continued on A4

Photos courtesy of the Baltimore City Police Department

A judge has dismissed charges against Michael Maurice Johnson (right) in the 2010 death of Phylicia Barnes (left).

Photos by Morgan State University News Service

Time is Now for Md. Second Chance Act

from background checks after a specified period, comes before the legislature this session. Shank and The Maryland General Assembly Carter expressed optimism about is on the precipice of passing stronger its passage in the 2015 General shielding protections for persons Assembly. with misdemeanor criminal records.

Marc Mauer, executive director Sen. Christopher Shank (R) and Del. of the Sentencing Project, spoke at Jill Carter (D) shared this news with the forum about the consequences of an audience during a recent forum a criminal conviction that go beyond on shielding and any court ordered expungement sentence. “When protections. the judge says, ‘I’m At the forum, sentencing you to do “How Long Is Too five years in prison,’ Long,” held at he or she doesn’t the University of say that I’m going Baltimore School to limit your right of Law on Jan. 12, to receive public a panel of experts, benefits, or live in including Shank and public housing, or Carter, discussed your right to vote the pros and cons for periods of time, of shielding and or anything like expungement that. Nobody in the protections – Christopher Shank courtroom talks for persons about that, but that with criminal in fact is what’s convictions. Shielding laws hide past happening,” Mauer said. criminal convictions from persons Mauer called these consequences conducting background checks, while a “life-long sentence,” and noted that expungement wipes the convictions communities of color and the poor are from their record. disproportionately affected.

The Maryland Second Chance Shank said, explaining his support Act, which would shield certain for the Second Chance Act, we have misdemeanor criminal convictions Continued on A3

By Roberto Alejandro Special to the AFRO

“I would say that continuing to spend a billion dollars and then seeing this rate of recidivism means that we should be doing some things a little bit differently.”

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Baltimore Office • Corporate Headquarters 2519 N. Charles Street Baltimore, Maryland 21218-4602 410-554-8200 • Fax: 1-877-570-9297 www.afro.com Founded by John Henry Murphy Sr., August 13, 1892 Washington Publisher Emerita - Frances L. Murphy II Chairman of the Board/Publisher - John J. Oliver, Jr. President - Benjamin M. Phillips IV Executive Assistant - Sallie Brown - 410-554-8222 Receptionist - Wanda Pearson - 410-554-8200 Director of Advertising Lenora Howze - 410-554-8271 - lhowze@afro.com Baltimore Advertising Manager Robert Blount - 410-554-8246 - rblount@afro.com Director of Finance - Jack Leister - 410-554-8242 Archivist - Ja-Zette Marshburn - 410-554-8265

NATION & WORLD Man Who Shot Black Police Chief Four Times Not Arrested

An African-American police chief from Sentinel, Okla., was shot four times, but his assailant, a White “survivalist” has not been arrested.

Police Chief Louis Ross entered the home of Dallas Horton around 6 a.m. Dec. 15 while investigating a bomb threat to a nearby school and was shot three times in the chest and once in the arm by the alleged suspect. Ross had just borrowed a bulletproof vest from another officer, which is credited with saving his life, according to the Oklahoma State Bureau of Investigations (OSBI).

“We almost lost a good man,” Sentinel Mayor Sam Dlugonski told local CNN affiliate KFOR. According to authorities, the Washita County Sheriff’s Office received a 911 call around 4 a.m. in which the caller, who identified himself as Horton, said he had placed a bomb at the nearby Head Start school.

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Police Chief Louis Ross was shot four times.

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The bomb squad investigated and determined there was no explosive device at the school, so Ross and his deputies went to the alleged suspect’s home in the 200 block S. 4th. St. When no one answered their summons, authorities said they forcefully entered the domicile.

“They made entry, cleared the first bedroom, started to clear the second bedroom, he opened fire on police and shot our chief three times in the chest and once in the arm,” Dlugonski told KFOR. The OSBI determined Horton should not be arrested, however.

Ross expressed skepticism

of that claim.

“Don’t know what he heard or didn’t hear screaming from five officers of the law announcing our presence, requesting to see hands,” Ross told News9.

Others said Horton’s reaction was understandable.

Black Leaders Raise Funds for Free Student Admissions to ‘Selma’

Black business leaders across an increasing number of U.S. cities are joining the burgeoning campaign to bring the Golden Globe-winning film Selma, to students for free.

“This initiative is unprecedented in African-American history. Never before has a group of Black leaders donated the funds to enable students across the country to view a film created by a Black director for free,” said Henry Louis Gates, professor of African American Studies at Harvard, in a statement.

Funds were recently established in Washington, D.C., and elsewhere, bringing the number of participating cities to 13, and several others are expected to be announced this week.

The efforts are being fueled by the success of a program in New York City, in which 27 African-American business leaders created a fund for 27,000 of the city’s seventh-, eighth-, and ninth-grade students to gain free admission to the movie. Due to the overwhelming demand, the New York City initiative sold out in the very first weekend and was expanded to 75,000 tickets.

Leaders of the movement said they felt compelled to share the inspiring, historical movie with the younger generation.

Selma chronicles a critical moment in the Civil Rights Movement--the tumultuous three-month period in 1965, when Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. led other activists in a dangerous campaign to secure equal voting rights for African Americans.

The epic march from Selma to Montgomery, Ala., during which demonstrators risked their very lives, culminated in President Johnson signing the monumental Voting Rights Act of 1965.

In most of the cities, seventh-, eighth- and ninth-grade students need only present a current student ID or report card at the box office of any participating theater to receive free admission while tickets last.

Toni Cook Bush and DeDe Lea, executives at News Corp. and Viacom, respectively, are leading the fundraising efforts in Washington, D.C.

GOP Lawmaker Apologizes for Obama-Hitler Comparison

A recent tweet by United States Rep. Randy Weber (R-Texas) incited another social media outrage when he compared President Obama to Nazi leader Adolf Hitler. But just less than 24 hours after Weber made his thoughts public on Twitter, he issued an apology before deleting the tweet.

Weber’s original tweet was spurred by the president’s absence at an anti-terror march in Paris Jan. 11 following a recent terrorist attack.

“Even Adolph [sic] Hitler thought it more important than Obama to get to Paris. (For all the wrong Rep. Randy Weber compared reasons.) Obama couldn’t President Obama to Nazi do it for right reasons,” leader Adolf Hitler.

Weber stated.

The post was one of many public criticisms lobbed at the White House for not sending an official of higher profile than Jane Hartley, the U.S. ambassador to France, to join other world leaders for the antiterrorist rally. “I think it’s fair to say that we should have sent someone with a higher profile,” White House spokesman Josh Earnest said in a somewhat apology.

Still, Weber acknowledged he might have gone too far--though he claimed the mention of Hitler was not meant to be a comparison to the president.

Instead, he said, he wanted the name drop to represent the evil that still exists.

“It was not my intention to trivialize the Holocaust nor to compare the President to Adolf Hitler. The mention of Hitler was meant to represent the face of evil that still exists in the world today. I now realize that the use of Hitler invokes pain and emotional trauma for those affected by the atrocities of the Holocaust and victims of anti-Semitism and hate,” Weber said in a statement.

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January 24, 2015 - January 30, 2015, The Afro-American

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Community Engagement Necessary to Overcome Power of Lobbyists ‘activist legislators.’

“We’ll champion causes because we believe they’re right and that is not the norm Sustained community engagement is key [in Annapolis],” said Carter during the forum. to overcoming the influence of lobbyists in “In Annapolis, there are paid lobbyists, and Annapolis, experienced lawmakers those paid advocates that champion bills. They gathered at the ‘From Protest to Policy: are paid to be there for the 90 days, and they Making Advocacy Count,’ forum. The event have built relationships with legislators. was a collaboration between Leaders of a They are there every day, in offices, building Beautiful Struggle, a youth-led Baltimore relationships – having dinners, having lunches policy think tank, and Associated Black – and talking about their issues throughout Charities (ABC), an advocacy organization the course of the session, and often times that that seeks to build healthier and more leaves the regular people, the constituents . . . prosperous communities in Maryland, out in the cold when it comes to passing laws.” according to its website. The forum consisted Braveboy explained that what legislators of a panel featuring Del. Jill Carter (D) of do during the session starts much earlier, with grassroots efforts in the community creating awareness of issues to be addressed through legislation. Once that awareness reaches legislators, a bill is drafted and presented to the legislature, where it is assigned to a committee. A – Jill Carter public forum is held, and if the bill is approved by the committee it reaches Baltimore’s 41st district and former Del. Aisha the floor for a vote.

Braveboy (D) of Prince George’s County’s “Typically, once a piece of legislation 25th district, and moderated by Diane Bellcomes out of a standing committee, typically McKoy, CEO of ABC. it passes on the floor . . . but you want to make Braveboy and Carter told those present that sure that, especially when there’s legislation most legislators are not activist lawmakers, that may be controversial, that you have which means support for specific legislation or enough presence, not just on that committee policies is largely driven by interactions with but in the entire legislature, advocating for lobbyists. your policy position,” said Braveboy. She Carter referred to herself and Braveboy as added that a big mistakes people make in

By Roberto Alejandro Special to the AFRO

“We’ll champion causes because we believe they’re right and that is not the norm [in Annapolis].”

Photo by Roberto Alejandro

Former delegate Aisha Braveboy (left) and Del. Jill P. Carter (D) addressed how communities can effect policy change in Annapolis. the policymaking process is failing to ensure you have enough floor votes to pass a bill.

Being certain of the votes, she said, requires sustained engagement with lawmakers beyond those sitting on the relevant committee.

After the panel, eleven advocacy groups presented their legislative agendas for the 2015 legislative session of Maryland’s General Assembly, which opened Jan. 14. A. Adar

Ayira, a project manager with ABC, closed out the event. “I want to say to you that policy is moral,” said Ayira, “because policy tells us about whom we care in society, and about whom we don’t . . . if we do not walk into policy, and each of us use the information that we have to help our policymakers expand their lens, then we will continue to get what we have always gotten.”

Obama

Continued from A1 especially the killing of unarmed Black males, unemployment, and re-segregated schools.

“The shadow of crisis has passed,” President Obama said.

“The State of the Union is strong.” However, the state of the union between the President and urban communities may be fraying around the edges. Black support dipped in light of the President’s tepid response over the Michael Brown and Eric Garner cases.

Even in his speech, the President walked a neutral line. He created a Task Force on 21st Century Policing that will present its findings in March. Despite six-months of uprisings which led to creation of the Task-Force, there is only one line about it in his 17-page speech. “We may have different takes on the events of Ferguson and New York.”

He said, “We can understand a father who fears his son can’t walk home without being harassed.” But, then he quickly changed direction and also argued for the other side, “surely we can understand the wife who won’t rest until the police officer she married walks through the front door at the end of the shift.”

President Obama ran for re-election with a focus on the middle-class. For which he has been severely criticized by Cornel West, the Black theologian and author. In his speech, the President explained that middle-class economics means helping folks afford childcare, college, health care, a home, and retirement.

The President proposed paid sick-leave and maternity leave which will benefit all communities. He said he wants to strengthen labor unions, increase the minimum wage, and invest in technology. However, all of these job-based proposals assume some level of employment. Unemployment among African-Americans is nearly twice that of Whites.

Even with an economy that is growing and creating jobs at the “fastest pace since 1999,” which Obama boasted in his speech, Blacks are lagging behind. Black unemployment is

11.4 percent, while the national unemployment rate is about 6.3 percent, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics. Blacks must still contend with racism in employment, housing, and education.

President Obama pointed out that “for the first time in 40

persecution of women, or religious minority, or people who are lesbian, gay, bisexual, or transgender” without arguing the other side.

The President and First Lady Michelle Obama are part of an era coming to a close. “Tonight we turn the page,” he said.

Will millions of Black men, women, and children move forward with him or watch –President Obama his presidency end from the sidelines? Time is running out for this President to create opportunities for Black America that can result in a shared optimism about the future.

“The shadow of crisis has passed. The State of the Union is strong.” years, the crime rate and the incarceration rate have come down together.” Yet, a disproportionate number of Black men, women, and children are in the prison system.

The President proposed free community college.

However, re-segregated American public schools are under-educating Black and Latino children making them ill-prepared for college, free or otherwise. “There is no Black America or White America,” he said. “There is only the United States of America,” which ignores an America still divided over race.

The President felt comfortable saying we must “speak out against anti-Semitism” and “reject offensive stereotypes of Muslims” and “condemn the

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Second Chance Act Continued from A1

to rethink our approaches to criminal justice, citing high costs to the state with limited results. “We spend over a billion dollars a year [on corrections in Maryland].

That is a lot of money. That is more money than we spend on higher education in this state, it’s crowding out a lot of other spending, and our recidivism rate is still hovering around 40 to 45 percent in this state.

So if I am true to my [fiscal conservative] principles . . .

I would say that continuing to spend a billion dollars and then seeing this rate of

recidivism means that we should be doing some things a little bit differently,” Shank said.

Shank said a study showed that the risk a convicted person will commit certain crimes again matches the risk of the general population after a certain amount of time. He said this information drives his support for shielding protections for those crimes after an allotted period.

Carter said while the General Assembly prides itself for being a progressive institution, it has not been

progressive on criminal justice matters. This is why she believes it is important to support an incremental change – like the one the Second Chance Act represents – when one might prefer a bill, for example, that did not require a waiting period before records eligible for shielding or expungement.

“We’re talking about a legislature that still has not allowed persons to expunge non-convictions [arrests not resulting in convictions].

Given that, I think we have to push forward very forcefully, but I think we have to consider some kind of a wait-period. I know how far we have been from expanding expungement and how difficult it’s been to even get [the Second Chance Act] passed, which [shields] minor, misdemeanor convictions, of little to no consequence that really probably shouldn’t be convictions that bar people from opportunities anyway,” said Carter.

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January 24, 2015 - January 24, 2015, The Afro-American

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Digital Divide Continued from A1

long time for any appreciable difference to be made and 2) If these companies aren’t hiring the right people, then it’s time to strike out on your own.

That’s what Tiffany Thomas-Randall, a Columbia, Md. resident, did when she lost her government job doing background security in 2010.

While sending out resumes

have much money to work with. This translates into old and outdated equipment as well as not enough money to hire the right people to keep a school’s technology up to date.

One organization trying to deal with that is Hack the Hood, a San Francisco based non-profit that attempts to engage school-age kids in the tech world. Hack the Hood does this by sponsoring sixweek technology boot camps that incorporate field trips, network, practice public speaking and build websites.

Only in its second year, Hack the Hood received a grant of $500,000 from Google last year to expand its programs. “We are in a unique position of living in the center of where the majority of tech companies are,” says Zakiya Harris, co-founder of the

is currently in the process of filling out the proper paperwork to become certified as a government contractor.

Asked what type of people she is looking to hire she says, “I’m looking for someone willing to learn. You have to want to know more. It doesn’t matter how old they are as long as they have a good work ethics. I’m not looking for 8-5 Monday through Friday.

You could have to investigate something in the evenings or on the weekends.”

When it comes to who the largest tech companies in America are hiring, the numbers are depressing.

Names like Yahoo!, Facebook, Amazon, Google—sites we BlackGirlsCode blackgirlscode.com use every day— started releasing Hack the Hood hackthehood.org their hiring statistics last year Rainbow PUSH Coalition after pressure from rainbowpush.org civil rights groups.

The Federal Kapor Center for Social Impact government kaporcenter.org requires large companies to file Code.org code.org ethnic and gender breakdowns of Year Up yearup.org their employees.

However, the National Society of Black Engineers numbers are nsbe.org confidential so it’s up to individual CODE2040 code2040.org companies to release those numbers to the public. Known as organization. “When Twitter EEO-1 reports, the statistics goes public and there are 30 pretty much live up to the new billionaires living in that stereotypes of the technology area that affects them [in the world: White or Asian men form of gentrification]. We are over-represented with Blacks, women and Hispanics give them the knowledge and expertise to move not just underrepresented. Some are as consumers of tech but as better than others but for the creators.” most part, it’s a sad state of While other articles in affairs. this series will explore the How did we get to this educational environment that state? It’s a familiar tale has led to such a paucity of that anyone who lives in a community with low property Black workers in the tech world, Harris offers this taxes will know. Property observation, “Does every taxes, in general, are the young person who goes second largest chunk of the through our program get a job money schools get right in tech? That remains to be behind income and sales seen. We have people who are taxes. If property taxes are training at tech companies, low, then the schools don’t

Organizations that offer help

Tiffany Thomas-Randall decided to start her own computer forensics firm. in early 2011, she enrolled in a computer security program at the University of Maryland University College. Despite having taken a few computer classes while an undergrad, she felt lost. “I went in not knowing anything,” she says.

“I did a lot of reading in order to catch up with the other students.”

An adviser suggested she go into computer forensics, the science of examining computers for evidence of a crime. She eventually broke into the field and worked for a year a half before going back to school for her master’s in cybersecurity. “Where I worked I was the only Black female. People who passed me in the hallway would say ‘Stick it out,’” she says. “I tell others [Black women] to do the same thing.”

After moving on to another job at a large consulting firm, she decided to start her own computer forensics firm called SCORPION: Digital Forensics last October. She

Barnes

one of our young people started making his own video game. As for the longer term impact? We’re still figuring that out.”

In addition to teaching young people to operate in tech circles, Hack the Hood also focuses on getting entrepreneurs to start their own businesses. When people finish with Hack the Hood the organization wants them to be ready to join a company or form their own. “Major tech companies are insular and hire people who know someone who knows someone. Lots of our young people don’t move in those circles. We’re trying to teach young people how to operate in those networks,” says Harris. “If we look at diversity and inclusion when it comes to the corporate world it still needs lots of change. Is the tech industry going to be any different?”

One person trying to answer that question is Frank Odasz, who works with rural Native American groups in Montana on getting them up to speed in technology.

He draws some interesting parallels to the Black community when it comes to getting more young people into the tech world.

“Rural communities are similar to urban ones,” he says. “Everyone has a self-reinforcing belief that they are incapable of doing amazing things even though in their own neighborhoods there are examples of people being successful.”

These include the person making a web site for the neighborhood barber shop and the local nail salon. As Odasz says, “Most innovations don’t come from big companies.

The founders of Facebook and Google dropped out of college. You can teach yourself anything you want to know with the open education resources on the internet.

Jobs have not been coming from big companies, instead they come from grassroots entrepreneurship.”

Echoing that sentiment is Nicol Turner-Lee, vice president and chief research and policy officer of the Minority Media and Telecom Council, which, full disclosure, provided a grant for the AFRO to produce this series. MMTC is a non-profit focused on civil rights in the communications industry.

“There are people in the world that will never see past the color of my skin.”

– Justin Edmund “We as a community need to shift from being consumers to producers. We remind kids that instead of buying an Xbox you can create that game,” says Turner-Lee. And it’s not just creating technology.

“Someone’s got to write the bill, record the data, be the greeter at the front desk and deal with legal concerns. We treat the tech industry like it’s the grown and sexy stuff. It’s an eco-system and they are generating [lots of different kinds of] jobs.”

For Blacks who do make it into the tech industry just being there can be an isolating and frustrating experience.

Justin Edmund, an early hire at Pintrest in Silicon Valley, wrote about this extensively on Medium.com. After the protests in Ferguson, Mo., following the death of Michael Brown, he took to the Internet to express his feelings. “In today’s America, I could walk to the store right now and be shot dead in my tracks because of a misunderstanding, or perhaps for no reason at all. There are people in the world that will never see past the color of my skin. Instead, they will shoot me dead for walking home from the corner store with Skittles and an Arizona iced tea. For many of you fortunate enough to read this blog post, you will never know how frightening that is.”

So what can we do? Like many answers to such a question, it depends. If you’re a parent there are plenty of organizations working to get Black kids into things like making web sites and computer programming. See box below.

For students in college who are either already in or thinking about engineering, one of the key degrees, besides computer science, for tech companies there are organizations that offer everything from help to refresher courses. One of those is the National Society of Black Engineers. Sossena Wood, chairperson of the NSBE, says the protests spawned by the killing of Michael Brown and Eric Garner are sparking protests on college campuses demanding more minorities be recruited. “If you push policy at schools and force

them to recruit more AfricanAmerican and poor minorities that will make a difference.

Everything going on with Michael Brown is waking up my generation because students are realizing they have a voice,” she says. “It’s not necessarily speaking out about police brutality but about injustice at their institutions. Students can drive more change than they necessarily know.

For adults and mid-career people there are options such as recruiters. Cindy Gallup, who in addition to running makelovenotporn. com also recruits for tech start-ups among other types of companies. “The lack of diversity in tech won’t get addressed until it gets addressed in an emotional and direct way,” she says.

“When I give talks I speak from the point of gender diversity but it applies to other forms of diversity. I say to the audience, ‘I want to talk to the men for a moment. Men: it’s very comfortable hiring people like you. Working with people like you. Starting companies with you. And hanging out with people like you. If you want to own the future, you have to get uncomfortable.’”

In the course of this investigation the AFRO reached out to some of the top tech companies in America including Google, Facebook, Yahoo!, LinkedIn, Microsoft and here in Baltimore NorthrupGruman. Beyond some of them providing us with a perfunctory statement on their efforts to improve diversity all of them declined to be interviewed about this important topic.

Thanks to the efforts of activists such as Jessie Jackson and the Rainbow PUSH Coalition, among others, many of these companies are at least making moves to rectify the situation.

Intel, for example, just announced it was going to spend $300 million on hiring minority and female talent.

But like all things, only time will tell if these are more than just empty gestures to divert the attention of people who are rightfully upset at these companies’ discriminatory hiring practices or lack of genuine attempts at reform.

Continued from A1 that put him there. They searched his car, a DNA swab—they just did so much but there was nothing that they could find that actually put Michael Johnson as being the person responsible for the disappearance and the untimely death of this young woman,” said Neverdon of the state’s evidence.

A second trial was ruled a mistrial last month by Howard, who now has dismissed the charges against Johnson on a motion by the defense for judgment of acquittal (MJOA) based on insufficient evidence, a motion which,

According to State v. Sirbaugh . . . the Court had no jurisdiction to grant the acquittal and we will be seeking an appeal on those grounds.”

According to Neverdon, the state could have legitimate grounds to appeal Howard’s decision because an MJOA cannot generally be filed until after the prosecution has completed presenting its case to the jury. Because the judge initially ruled a mistrial because of the prosecutorial failure to redact a recording of a wire-tapped conversation involving Johnson before the recording was presented to the jury, the state may not have been able to present its full case, meaning a ruling on an MJOA would be inappropriate.

“The problem becomes did [the judge] obviate the role of a jury when he starts talking about the sufficiency of the Marilyn Mosby evidence. . . . From what I’ve read, from some early quotes, according to Neverdon, asks whether, if all the [the judge] said there was no direct evidence, evidence is viewed in the light most favorable this was circumstantial. But we know that to the prosecution, there is sufficient evidence under the jury instructions they would get at by which a reasonable juror could find criminal some point in time, suggests that there is no liability. distinction between circumstantial or direct Mosby subsequently released a statement evidence. And that’s a question that, if the which read, in part, “We respectfully disagree state’s going to make an argument, would fall within the purview of a jury. So I think if with the Court’s decision today based on the they’re going to attack, that would be where fact that the defense waived their right to a ruling on a motion for judgment of acquittal. the attack would be,” explained Neverdon.

“We respectfully disagree with the Court’s decision today based on the fact that the defense waived their right to a ruling on a motion for judgment of acquittal.”

–

Study: Property and Sales Taxes Place Heavy Burden on the Poor, Middle-Class

By Roberto Alejandro Special to the AFRO Poor and middle-class families pay a much higher share of their income in sales and property taxes than do the wealthy, according to a recent study of state tax systems by the Institute on Taxation & Economic Policy. The study found that the less states and localities rely on progressively structured income taxes, the greater the relative burden on low and middle-income households.

In Maryland, households in the lowest 20 percent of earners (people earning less than $24,000 per year) pay 9.7 percent of their incomes in taxes. The middle 20 percent pay 10.3 percent, and the top 1 percent of households pay 6.7 percent of their total incomes in taxes.

State and local tax structures that rely heavily on property taxes, or sales and excise taxes, tend to hit low and middle-income families particularly hard, the study concludes.

“Property taxes, including both taxes on individuals and business taxes, are usually somewhat regressive,” reads the study. “On average, poor homeowners and renters pay more of their incomes in property taxes than do any other income group — and the wealthiest taxpayers pay the least.”

Sales and excise taxes are also “very regressive,” since “[p]oor families pay almost eight times more of their incomes in these taxes than the best-off families, and middle-income families pay more than five times the rate of the wealthy.”

The study can inform policy discussions in cities like Baltimore, with high rates of poverty (23.8 percent according to the last census) and heavy reliance on regressive taxes such as the city’s property tax.

“There are moral and practical reasons to be concerned about [regressive taxes],” according to the study. “Unfair tax systems not only exacerbate widening income inequality in the short term, but they also will leave states struggling to raise enough revenue to meet their basic needs in the long term.”

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The Afro-American, January 24, 2015 - January 24, 2015

January 24, 2015 - January 30, 2015, The Afro-American

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U.S. Dream Academy Keeps At-Risk Kids on Track Lisa Snowden-McCray Special to the AFRO Derrell Frazier, 22, was born with a lot of reasons to feel hopeless and powerless.

He was born to a father who went to prison when he was just two years old and a mother who was addicted to drugs and unable to care for her children. Frazier lived with his grandmother on the east side of Baltimore, along with his three other siblings.

He attended a Title 1 city school that wasn’t making the grade.

Frazier says that he saw a lot of negativity in his life. Today, however, he is in his junior year at Morgan State University where he is studying pre-law. He was the first in his family to graduate high school. He says the U.S. Dream Academy helped turn his life around.

The Dream Academy is an after school and mentorship program that aims to keep atrisk kids on the right track.

“The goals for the U.S. Dream Academy are threefold: skill building, character building and dream building,” said C. Diane Wallace Booker, the group’s executive director. “We really want to help our young people grow into ethical leaders.”

“It gave us opportunities that a lot of us never even thought to do,” Frazier said. “Recreation, art, enrichment.”

He said that the academy kept him off the streets and out of trouble. “It was kind of like a home away from home.”

“A lot of my older relatives didn’t finish school,” he said. That meant that they weren’t always able to help him if he was struggling with homework.

He said that the adults in the program worked hard to find creative ways to teach him and the other kids. They helped them learn instead of just lecturing. “You have old heads that tell you ‘this is what you need to do.’ They don’t even help you.”

Mentorship is a major tenet of the program.

Frazier’s mentor was a Johns Hopkins student named Nathan Maust.

“My father wasn’t in my life,” he said. “He gave me a lot of advice. A lot of questions that you would have for someone who was older.”

It wasn’t all work, either. The two also had fun together. They did things like playing sports and going ice skating. “I had fun,” Frazier said. “I’m happy that I got to

meet him.”

Wallace Booker said that the group is always looking for adults to mentor Dream Academy participants, especially during January which is National Mentoring month.

“What we really care about is that there are positive adults. Mentors can come from all walks of life,” she said. She said some mentors commit to coming in every week, some bi-weekly and others periodically for certain programs.

As for Frazier, he already has plans to be a mentor himself. He says he knows so many young people his age who are taxed with taking care of a house full of younger siblings and relatives. He said he wants them to know that their dreams are important - and achievable – too.

“I used to be ashamed to tell my story,” he said. “I didn’t want to tell anybody where I was from. But my story is my testimony.”

“Everybody was put on this earth for a reason. You have a purpose to fulfill.

You have to figure out what makes you happy in life.”

Learn more about the U.S. Dream Academy, including how to participate, by going to www.usdreamacademy.org

Courtesy photo

Derrell Frazier poses with NBA commissioner Adam Silver at a Morgan State University event.

Hogan

Continued from A1 state faces, including a $750 million budget deficit. He must work with a Democratically-controlled legislature.

“The politics that have divided our nation need not divide our state,” he said, standing before a crowd of wellwishers that included New Jersey Gov. Chris Christie, who described Hogan, as a man who “is ready, willing and able to lead the state into a bright new future.”

In pledging to work with Democrats and others, Hogan, from Anne Arundel County, said he would focus on fiscal responsibility, economic growth, accountability and fairness.

“Partisanship will never play a role in my decision-making,” he said.

Despite the threat of a winter blast and a midday storm that frosted Lawyer’s Mall in front of the statehouse, more than 1,600 supporters swarmed outside outside the venerable

building to greet Hogan and or, Boyd Rutherford from Howard County.

In his brief address preceding Hogan, Rutherford said the new administration would “focus on what is best for those who are paying our salaries.”

John Rudolph of Carroll County was one of those people. He had met Hogan at a pig roast during the primary campaign last year. “I got a really good sense that he wanted to work towards

“We can change Maryland for the better and, together, we will.”

unity,” Rudolph said, “He seems to be moderate politically, which will be helpful towards working with both sides.”

Hogan acknowledged that he faces a great challenge, but said, “We can change Maryland for the better and, together, we will.”

Obituary

Obituary

Mildred “Henry” Louise Miller Pettit Mildred “Henry” Louise Miller Pettit was born on April 20, 1925 in Rutherfordton, North Carolina to the late Garland Miller and Hattie Forney Miller. She was the youngest of eleven children: Lester, JT, Lonnie, Helen, Viola, Elvee, Florence, Emma, Irene and Idessa - all preceded her in death. Mrs. Pettit departed this life on Friday, January 16, 2015, in Baltimore, MD. Mildred received her education in the public school system of Rutherfordton. She later moved to Summit, NJ where she resided with her sister Irene, and then to Philadelphia, PA to live with her sister Viola.

In 1943, Mildred married George David Pettit, of Sylva, NC, who later became a college professor, an electrical engineer/scientist, and a civil rights activist. From this union, a son, Alvin Dwight Pettit was born. The family eventually relocated to Turner Station in Baltimore, MD, and later to Aberdeen, MD, where George gained employment as a human factor engineer/scientist at Aberdeen Proving Grounds.

Mildred began a successful life-long career as a licensed beautician and entrepreneur after graduating from Apex Beauty School in North Carolina. The ladies of Bennett College, North Carolina A & T, Turner Station in Baltimore, and Aberdeen, MD often praised and appreciated her talent for hairdressing, and the enjoyable “beauty shop” chats they engaged in. Mildred was known as the “Aberdeen Community Beautician”.

Mildred took special interest in gardening, cooking great meals for her family, being a devoted and loving wife, mother and grandmother, and sharing fond memories about her family and friends, especially

– Gov. Larry Hogan

growing up in North Carolina with her niece Catherine McDowell who was like her baby sister. She kept in close touch with her nieces and nephews Eileen, Glo, Larry Miller, and several others. When feeling lucky, special interest was also given to “playing the lottery.” Her son Dwight characterizes his mother as “the glue and the support that held our family together through many tough times”. She, in turn she loved and lived for her son.

She will sincerely be missed by her family and the numerous friends she made throughout the years. Yes, it will seem strange here without “Mom” or “MaMa”, but the void will be filled with many wonderful memories of our loved one.

Left to cherish those precious memories are her son, attorney and author A. Dwight Pettit, Sr., Baltimore, MD, daughter-in-law, Barbara Moore Pettit, administrator; grandson, Alvin Dwight Pettit, Jr., artist, and Director of the Bethune Cultural Center, Jersey City, NJ; granddaughter, Nahisha Tamara Pettit, actress, writer, entrepreneur; great-granddaughter, Georgia David Pettit, student, both of Los Angeles, CA; brotherin-law, Joseph Pettit, sister-in-law, Christine Pettit both of North Carolina; sister-in-law, Ruby Pettit, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania; and cousin, Marion Conley, Baltimore, Maryland; and many nieces, nephews, cousins and friends.

Funeral Services will be held on Saturday, January 24, 2015 at the William C. Brown Community Funeral Home located at 321 S. Philadelphia Boulevard, Aberdeen, Maryland 21001. The Family Hour is at 10:00 a.m. and the Funeral is at 11:00 a.m.

Iris Wicks Lloyd

March 28, 1919 – January 16, 2015

Sadly on Friday January 16, 2015, Iris Wicks Lloyd slipped peacefully away at the age of Ninety-Five (95). She was residing at the New Life Healthy Living, Assisted Living facility.

Iris was born March 28, 1919 in Baltimore Maryland. She was the oldest of two (2) children (Andrew Jr.) born to the Late Andrew G. Wicks and Wanda Arlene Wicks.

Iris was educated in the public schools of Baltimore Maryland. She attended Coppin State College (University) where she received her Bachelor’s degree in Education and her Master’s degree from New York University in Psychology.

During her life time, Iris was a dedicated teacher in

the Baltimore City Schools, and after receiving her Masters in Psychology, Iris came out of the classroom and specialized in the Evaluation and Testing of city school students.

Iris was a member of Alpha Kappa Alpha (AKA) Sorority, Inc., We Wives, Firesiders and The Smart Set, Inc. She enjoyed playing poker with a special group of friends and solitaire in her spare time.

Iris was married to the late Raymond Carpenter, Lawrence Mapp and Dr. Robert C. Lloyd. She is survived by two (2) Great Nieces; Wanda A. Wicks, Christy Y. Wicks and the late Iris Joy Wicks; four (4) stepsons; Robert, Jr., Ralph, Stephen and John Lloyd, a good friend Lenora Deanna Brown, and a special loving and dedicated Goddaughter Sylvia Hamlett Law, a host of other relatives and many longtime friends.

Obituary

Cora Porter

Born Cora Lee Williams in Baltimore, MD on July 14, 1930 to Noco Cleveland Williams and his wife Myrtle Viola Williams (nee Johnson) Mrs. Porter was a resident of Glen Burnie for the past 59 Years.

A 1952 graduate of Coppin State University with a B.S. in Education, she would later receive her Master’s Degree in Media from Towson State University. She enjoyed a 31 year career in the Baltimore City Public School System, first as a teacher, then for the last 18 in the Dept. of Media and Technology. She was known in the schools for her talents as a storyteller. Mrs. Porter was an active Member of John Wesley United Meth. Ch. where she had taught Sunday School. An avid gardener, she also enjoyed reading, the arts and dancing. But the center of her life revolved around her family. In addition to her parents, she is

preceded in death by her beloved husband William H. Porter, Jr. who died in 2004. Mrs. Porter is survived by her children Dr. Myrna Fay Wilson of Annapolis, Dr. Neil C. Porter of Towson and William H. Porter III of Petersburg, VA as well as her loving grandchildren Corinne, Alexander, Jean Nicole, Burton and William H. Porter, IV, Justin & William Wilson, IV as well as a half brother James Watkins of Atlanta, GA. Family Time Friday, 10-11am, Funeral Service 11am John Wesley United Methodist Church 6922 Ritchie Highway Glen Burnie, Md 21061 Interment 1pm Cedar Hill Cemetery.

In lieu of flowers, send contributions in her memory to the American Cancer Society, 1041 Rt. 3, North Building A, Gambrills, Maryland 21054.

For further information or to post condolences, please visit www.kirkleyruddickfuneralhome.com

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The Afro-American, January 24, 2015 - January 30, 2015

COMMUNITY CONNECTION Red Cross Launched Home Fire Preparedness Campaign as MLK Day of Service

The American Red Cross in the National Capital Region joined forces with regional organizations and their leaders to participate in the Home Fire Preparedness Campaign as part of the National MLK Day of Service.

The MLK Day of Service is a part of United We Serve, the President’s national call to service initiative. It asks for Americans from all walks of life to work together to provide solutions to our most pressing national problems.

The goal of the Home Fire Preparedness Campaign is to reduce the number of deaths and injuries caused by home fires by 25 percent in five years. Home fires kill an average of seven people every day, and every 40 minutes an injury from a home fire is reported. Roughly 1,000 times every day, fire departments are called to a home fire.

The local Red Cross MLK Day of Service began at three local communities with remarks from partner organizations and Red Cross leaders. Volunteers and staff then canvassed door-to-door to talk with residents about the importance of

Courtesy photos

Red Cross volunteers fire safety and having escape plans for their households.

Participants asked residents if they have working smoke detectors, and if a smoke detector was needed the team installed alarms free of charge. The American Red Cross set a goal of installing a minimum of 75 smoke alarms over four hours of service in each region: Prince George’s County, Washington D.C., and Alexandria.

BGE Employees Participate in Day of Service to Celebrate Life and Legacy of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.

A BGE volunteer participates in a day of service

In celebration, recognition and honor of the life and legacy of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr., Baltimore Gas and Electric Company (BGE) employees teamed up, Jan. 19, for a day of service with three community service organizations across Baltimore. BGE employee volunteers and members of the employee resource group, Exelon’s African-American Resource Alliance (EAARA), Baltimore Chapter, participated in “A Day ON,” with local nonprofits Art with a Heart, The Loading Dock and The Sixth Branch.

BGE employees volunteered at a neighborhood cleanup with The Sixth Branch in East Baltimore’s Darley Park community, creating a safe park for residents and their families. This is the fourth year The Sixth Branch has led a neighborhood clean-up in East Baltimore communities in honor of Martin Luther King Jr. Day. The Sixth Branch is a nonprofit organization utilizing the leadership and organizational skills of military veterans to execute aggressive community service initiatives at the local level. The Sixth Branch builds community by bringing together service-mined veterans and civilians to serve its communities on the home

front.

BGE employees also volunteered with The Loading Dock, Maryland’s premier building materials reuse facility, which offers affordable, interesting finds to people who need inexpensive housing improvement and building materials and are interested in keeping material out of the waste stream. BGE volunteers spent the day sorting, organizing and cleaning donated building materials, creating displays, relocating donated materials from one area of the warehouse and showroom to another, pricing materials for sale and taking inventory.

BGE employee volunteers and members of the employee resource group, Exelon’s African-American Resource Alliance (EAARA), Baltimore Chapter, spent the day with Art with a Heart, working to finish community enhancement projects in the Art with a Heart studio space. Art with a Heart brings 10,000 visual art classes to abused, neglected and abandoned children; homeless people; battered women and their children; mentally and physically disabled adults; low-income senior citizens; elementary, middle, and high school students; youth in after-school programs; and children receiving long-term health care.

BGE and its employees embrace the spirit of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. not just in celebration of today’s Holiday, but year-round. Through BGE’s employee volunteer network, ‘Energy for the Community,’ BGE employees lend their time and passion to corporate citizenship activities. In 2014, BGE employees donated more than 24,000 volunteer hours to various nonprofit organizations. In addition, BGE contributed nearly $3.7 million to charitable organizations in support of more than 275 non-profit organizations across Central Maryland. For more information on BGE’s commitment to corporate philanthropy and employee volunteering efforts, visit bge.com.

Seniors Hall of Fame The Maryland Senior Citizens Hall of Fame is seeking nominations of Maryland residents, 65 years of age or older, who as active volunteers have made outstanding contributions to improve the lives of others in the community. Nominations will be reviewed and up to 50 qualified nominees will be selected for induction into the 2015 Maryland Senior Citizens Hall of Fame. Nomination forms and specific details for eligibility are available at mschf.org or by written request to MSCHF, 800 Southerly Road, Box 1, Towson, Md. 212868403. All nomination forms must be postmarked by April 30.

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January 24, 2015 - January 30, 2015 The Afro-American

Still Marching

COMMENTARY

For me, last week’s celebration of Martin Luther King’s birthday came quickly on the heels of watching Selma, an inspiring and challenging film about Dr. King’s unyielding crusade for voting rights—as well as a deep personal loss. Just before the New Year, we lost Ferdinand Day, a mentor of mine whose photo sits on my credenza.

Tall, dignified and gentle, Fred (as his friends called him) was a driving force in integrating the public schools of Alexandria, Va., an amazing story that was brought to life in the 2000 Denzel Washington movie Remember the Titans. The first African- American to chair a Virginia school board, my mentor worked tirelessly for Black rights in his community.

He would remind us, “Always comport yourself in a dignified manner, so the focus is on the issue, not on you.” Fred taught me many lessons about being a leader and imparted critical values, including an abiding sense of fairness, an aversion for complacency, and an appreciation for the wonderful mosaic of diversity.

Losing Fred, watching Selma, and observing MLK Day prompted a reflection on the central paradox of AfricanAmerican life: We have made incredible strides economically, politically and legally, and yet we seem to be fighting many of the same battles over and over again. In light of the heroism and sacrifices of Dr. King and his generation, the education and career prospects of our young people should be much brighter than they are, and our society should be far more just.

Indeed, the work of the Civil Rights Movement continues.

Those of us who watched Selma may have been temporarily cheered by the triumphs it chronicles, but one look at the headlines quickly brings us back to hard reality. The fact is, we cannot settle for the victories won by Dr. King, Malcolm X, Stokely Carmichael, Angela Davis, Ferdinand Day and other names from the history books.

George H. Lambert Jr.

History is still being written. The struggle continues, and nonprofit groups that organize people of color and give them a voice are needed more than ever. We’re still marching.

The world has changed in many ways since the days of Selma, and there are more ways than ever to create meaningful change in our complex, globalized society.

Yes, I believe we will continue to make progress, thanks to anyone—black, white, etc.—who cares enough to include the #blacklivesmatter hash tag in their Twitter feed and everyone who reads and shares black-focused publications like the AFRO. Furthermore, our region is blessed by a vibrant new generation of leaders who surely will go beyond yesterday’s hard-won victories.

I could single out many such leaders, but the events of recent months have cemented my respect and admiration for one in particular. Charis Goff is president of our Thursday Network, the young professionals auxiliary of the Greater Washington Urban League. Charis helped to orchestrate our organization’s participation in December’s “Justice for All” march and in her brief career has already proven herself as an inspirational and empathetic leader. Recently named to

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the “Top Forty Under 40” by Prince George’s County Social Innovation Fund, she is showing signs of promise that should give the entire region reason to be optimistic. One day, this brand of leadership may earn her a place in the history books alongside those who have fought for, in President Johnson’s words, “the dignity of man and the destiny of democracy.”

George H. Lambert Jr. is president and CEO of the Greater Washington Urban League.

On Selma On Jan. 18 I went to see the movie “Selma.” It was one of the greatest movies I have ever seen. In retrospect, it reminded me what a great and awesome people we are. To have put up with so much persecution and continue to push on was incredible. Dr. King, Andrew Young, the Honorable John Lewis and many others faced ridicule so that we today could have the right to vote and so much more speaks volumes.

Somehow all of us who believe in justice and freedom must do all we can to encourage every adult and every child from the 5th grade up to see this movie. It should be a must

Cameron Miles

for the school system, the jails, homeless shelters, churches, synagogues, mosques and temples. We as a community have gotten away from loving one another and looking out for one another. At a time when some police are brutalizing us, when many of us are killing one another senselessly, when many of our youth are more concerned with getting high, wearing their pants too low on their behinds, when too many of us are housed in juvenile detention centers, when too many are not striving for excellence and behaving in school, when too many of our potential future leaders spend the majority of their time listening to lyrics that are foul as well as dream killers, and on top of that are not knowledgeable about the struggle that took

place during the King days and today’s struggles.

All of us must do more to save and communicate with this present generation. If our youth are not better educated about the past, it may be repeated. If our youth don’t learn the importance of a good work ethic, where will they work? Many of our youth are doing good but too many are not doing good enough. I have a dream that more of us will work with young people and help them to see their true worth and value.

Cameron E. Miles is the director of the Baltimore-based organization Mentoring Male Teens in the Hood.

We Can No Longer Afford a World of ‘the Other’ A shadow of ignorance and hate has darkened us all. We raise our voices in anguish and protest at the French “Charlie” outrage as we briskly walk past the hungry beggar in the street, neglect a family member who has fallen on hard times, look away from the youth whose pants aren’t hitched up as we’d like.

We can no longer afford a world of “the other.”

“Black lives matter,” the tortured plea that went out regarding the alarming Marian Lee Lewis police murders of black youth in America was followed by a self-righteous “All lives matter.” The intention of this convenient bromide was an attempt to muzzle the cry of the

disenchanted, disaffected “others” for whom the Declaration of Independence’s “all men are created equal” might as well have been written on a bathroom wall. It insulted those who were not born into the safe bunker of opulence and privilege.

It said that no matter how loud you scream, no matter how bloody your children, husbands, brothers, sisters, wives; no matter your candles or church bells, no matter your riots in the street, we will silence you with our apathy and disbelief. “All lives matter” opened the wounds of everyday Black and Brown people acquainted with the policeman’s club. It was heard by hard working corporate Americans who have been stopped Driving While “Other.”

It reminded the LGBT community of the deafening silence that followed their “other” comrades murdered for living their truth.

In 2012 there were 2,016 incidents of hate violence and 25 homicides. A special hatred was reserved for transgender women, people of color and gay men. No plaintive wails or ribbons on the trees from those living an unmolested heterosexual American dream that has become an American

fantasy to rival Marvel Comics.

The reason “All lives matter” is so compelling is because it reflects the highest spiritual and scientific truth. We are all connected to one another and to Mother Gaia herself. But we choose to be at war…with ourselves. There is no “other” except in the deepest shadows of our insane minds. Humanity who has raped Mother Earth in an attempt to wage a war on Nature, is out to destroy itself.

Our ship of state is losing water. The blood in the streets is our own. There is no bunker to protect us from “the other.” As Pogo said, “We have met the enemy and he is us.” Building walls to lock the enemy out only imprisons us.

So yes, “All lives matter.” I’m sure that’s what Trayvon Martin’s mother said. Eric Garner’s mother must have thought it too. And what about Michael Brown’s mother. “All lives matter.” Yes, that’s exactly the point.

Marian Lee Lewis is an author, journalist and poet living in Baltimore.

World is Indifferent to Missing Nigerian Girls One could not help but be impressed by the millions that turned out in Paris to stand against the Islamist terrorists who killed workers at the French satirical magazine Charlie Hebdo and four others at a kosher grocery store. Two law enforcement officers were also killed, bringing the total to 17.

About 40 heads of state and more than a Julianne million others crowded into Malveaux Republique Square; even more rallied around France. In total, it is estimated that 3.7 rallied for freedom. They wore shirts and carried signs that said, “I am Charlie.” Some said, “I am Muslim and Charlie” or “I am Jewish and Charlie.” Those crowds transcended race, religious and political lines.

President Obama got mixed reaction to his not attending the solidarity rally. Ambassador to France Jane Hartley, someone with much less status, represented the United States. Critics said the president could at least have sent Vice President Joe

Biden; Attorney General Eric H. Holder was in Paris and could have attended. The president may be doing something much more substantive by convening a summit on world terrorism at the White House in February.

I wonder if these gatherings will address terror in Nigeria, where the Islamic terrorist group Boko Haram abducted 276 girls, and still holds 219. A hashtag campaign, #BringBackOurGirls was joined by First Lady Michelle Obama, former Secretary of State Hilary Clinton, British Prime Minister David Cameron and others. Few of the 40 who rallied in Paris have ever mentioned the abducted girls and those terrorists who took them. Indeed, the abducted girls have all but disappeared from the headlines and from the public consciousness.

The girls were abducted on April 14, 2014. Since then, our attention has been riveted by other news from the African continent, as the Ebola virus killed thousands (we in the U.S. were mostly focused on our handful of casualties), and as ISIS has escalated its activity around the globe. While some have forgotten about the Nigerian girls, many have not. Obiageli Ezekwesili, a former Nigerian government official who is now vice president of the World Bank’s Africa Division, has been among those continuing to focus attention on the girls.

People fear that Boko Haram may have sold the schoolgirls into slavery, forced some into marriage, or killed others.

Given the fact that Amnesty International, the International Committee of the Red Cross, and the UN Security Council have decried the Islamist militant terrorist group, it is alarming that the world community has been so indifferent to the plight of the abducted young girls. Some of the indifference does not start with the world, but in Nigeria. Will Goodluck Jonathan, the Nigerian president who is running for reelection, mention the girls at all before February, when voting takes place? Or, has the fate of 219 kidnapped girls been forgotten?

Demonstrations have taken place daily in Abuja, Nigeria’s capital, despite the fact that the police have ordered these demonstrations to stop. Meanwhile, Boko Haram continues its terrorist plundering in Nigeria, destroying villages and towns in the northeast part of the country and killing thousands. It is estimated that they have destroyed more than 3,700 structures – homes, churches, and public spaces. Tens of thousands of Nigerians have fled to bordering Chad because they fear for their lives. (see more on afro.com) Julianne Malveaux is an author and economist in Washington, D.C.

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The Afro-American, January 24, 2015 - January 30, 2015

HBCU NEWS King’s Sweet Songs of Joy at National Cathedral

By Rachel Kersey Howard University News Service The Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. loved music, so say his friends and biographers, and at times King reflected on its magic “God has wrought many things out of oppression,” King said in his 1964 opening address at the Berlin Jazz Festival. “He has endowed his creatures with the capacity to create, and from this capacity has Photo courtesy of the Washington National Cathedral. flowed the sweet songs of The Howard University Gospel Choir was one of the many performers at the Washington sorrow and joy that have National Cathedral’s “All God’s Children” event on Jan. 19. allowed man to cope with his environment and many for all people. different situations.”

“We feel that it’s our great privilege to open our doors and More than 50 years after King gave that speech, hundreds continue to tell the story because the work’s not done.” gathered to honor his legacy with those “sweet songs” as the As part of the mission to continue Dr. King’s work, Washington National Cathedral hosted a Martin Luther King admission to the service was a canned, non-perishable good or Day service, entitled “All God’s Children” on Jan. 19. children’s book, which would be donated to Friendship Place They were feted to musical, dance, and spoken-word and Covenant Baptist Church, according to Sara Kirsch, a performances by the African Heritage Dancers and Drummers, member of the cathedral staff.

The Bishop John T. Walker School for Boys Chorus, soloist “Martin Luther King tried to do his best with the Francese Books and dancer Mahkai Carroll, the Washington community, tried to bring everyone together,” Kirsch said.

Performing Arts’ Children of the Gospel Choir, poet Tika “That’s ultimately what we’re trying to do to make the church Wallace and the Howard Gospel Choir of Howard University. more open to everybody.”

King delivered his final Sunday sermon from the And indeed, the church was open to everybody. It is the cathedral’s Canterbury Pulpit on March 31, 1968, just days world’s sixth largest cathedral and its seats were filled from before his April 4 assassination in Memphis, Tenn. The front to back with people of all walks of life who came to hear cathedral has made it its mission to proclaim and achieve just a bit of the “sweet songs” of joy of which King spoke.

King’s vision.

“If you looked across the sanctuary, you didn’t just see “The work’s not done,” said the Rev. Canon Jan Cope, who Black people,” said Brandon Cox, vice president of the serves as the cathedral’s vicar. “We feel his legacy and work Howard Gospel Choir. “You didn’t just see white people. very strongly and passionately here, and it’s a house of prayer You saw Hispanics, you saw Indians, you saw all these other

ethnicities come together as one to honor and celebrate Dr. Martin Luther King.

“And one of the things the gospel choir stands proudly on is love and how music is universal. We use our ministry of music to reach everybody.”

Bené Durant, 70, attended the service.

Durant was born in Portsmouth, Va., in 1944. She grew up during the time of massive repression and efforts to prevent desegregation of public schools. It was the era of Jim Crow, and Durant remembers the signs separating whites from coloreds. She recalled how she sat in the balcony when she went to the theater.

Due to efforts by King and others, as well as her own hard work, Durant said In August 1967, she became the first black librarian in Arlington, Va. Despite customers calling her asking, “Are you that black bitch?” she rose to become department head over two white women.

And one thing she felt that the new generation may be missing is a certain drive, she said.

“I think people need to value education more,” she said. “I don’t think there’s that emphasis on education and trying to be the best you can. A lot of people want something for nothing.”

Melvin Deal is the founding director of the African Heritage Dancers and Drummers, a group that has been a part of the MLK Day celebration at the cathedral for many years.

“We’re always very honored to be asked to come and perform, giving honor to our ancestor, Martin Luther King, and showing people in the community that young people can do something positive,” Deal said. “The young men in my company are all honor roll students, and they are excellent percussionists. We like to bring forth the young people to let people know that we are in good hands. They are our future.”

The cathedral took up an offering, part of which went to the Cathedral Scholars Program, which has successfully prepared 100 percent of participating students for college.

The service ended with a call to stand. Everyone joined hands or linked arms. They swayed from side to side and sang with one voice.

It was an old song, one of the “sweet songs” of joy that King sang and so many others have sung since him.

“We shall overcome. We shall overcome. We shall overcome someday.”

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January 24, 2015 - January 30, 2015, The Afro-American

Stan Stovall, Master of Ceremonies, received a plaque from Anthony McPhail, co-chair of the Scholarship Breakfast

Ernestine Shepherd, Linda Hollis, Vanessa Logan, Martena Clinton

Edna Rich and Dr. Clara Adams

B1

The Kings Landing Women’s Service Club Janet Briscoe, Howard L. celebrated its 40th Annual Martin Luther King Jr. Cornish Chapter Scholarship students are Brianna Dorsey, Ashley Memorial Breakfast with a sold-out crowd on Jan. Distinguished B. Johnson, Kel-e Johnson, Brian Melton Jr. 19 at Martin’s West. The program theme was Awardee with “Preserving the Legacy.” husband Gerald Legacy Award recipients were Annette March-Grier, president and co-founder Roberta’s House; Apostle Stanley M. Butler, founder Temple House; Shalita O’Neale, founder & CEO, Fostering Change Scholarship students are Jhyana Brummmell, Georgina Network; Dr. Warren C. Hayman, Coker, Angela Njob, Damien Taylor Jacqueline Lawson, president, MSUNAA, co-chair, Baltimore City Public Delores Cooke, President, Howard L. Cornish Alumni Chapter, Rev. Dr. Richard Schools Basketball Academy Adams, Howard L. Cornish Appreciation and Stephanie Poplar-Best, coAwardee founder Kevin Cares Foundation.

Dr. Marco Merrick was presented the “Man of the Year Award;” Tyesha White was presented the Youth Scholarship students are Jhenelle Anglin, Chabeli Arroto, Olivia Askew, Audrey Bagby, Anwar Battle Achievement Award.

Scholarship students are Michelle N.Oriaku, Duane Saunders Jr., Namina Waters, Raigan Wheder

Honoree Dr. Samuel Ross, CEO, Bon Secours Hospital, Bert Hash, CEO (retired) Municipal Employees Credit Union, Dr. David Wilson, president, Morgan State University, Calvin G. Butler Jr., guest speaker

Barbara Broscpe, Marian Finney, Maggie Caples

Scholarship students are Nico Cloyd, Rudy Daniel, Christina Davis, Michael Faulkner

Carole Jeffries congratulates Harolyn Blackwell, New York Metropolitan Company for her performance, "He's Got the Whole World in His Hand"

Standing are Theresa Hampton, Charles and Darlene Stewart. Seated are Barry Williams and Jerome Hall

Presidential Salute to Howard L. Cornish Chapter presidents Virginia Coleman,'50, Gloria Wayman,'90, Julia Randall,'64,

Lawrence Montgomery and Alison Hillen

Members of Planning Committee and family are Erica Waters, Rosa W. Brooks, Namina Waters, Dr. Clayton Stansbury, Catherine Stansbury, Sandra Waters

Photos by Dr. A. Lois De Laine

Harold and Denise Gordon, Dr. Paulette Burgess, Gary Burgess

Judy Rainey, Claudette Swain, Tanya Harris, Dr. Charlene Cooper-Boston

David and Angel Wilson

Mary Haysbert, Reggie Haysbert Jr. , Comalita Haysbert

Iota Phi Theta Fraternity Founder, Frank Coakley with wife, Dr. Marcia Henson Coakley

The Gamma Omicron Omega Graduate Chapter of Iota Phi Theta The chapter has now grown to over Fraternity held an elegant black tie gala in which the founding fathers were 40 members and continues to grow. In honored. its first year of existence, the chapter The Chapter recently celebrated its first year of existence (Dec. 9, participated in over 20 community service 2013), and its first line induction of “The Chosen 11” on June 28, activities.

2014.

The main ballroom at the Forum Caterers was decorated exquisitely with the Fraternity’s colors of brown and gold with gold chairs and organza brown linen. In the Yale ballroom, the sounds of “straight ahead” jazz were performed by Guy Bragg and Sterling Silver while the Rolex Band kept the line dancers moving across the floor.

Three honorable founders Angela L Baskerville, Diane Thomas. Standing, introduced to the audience by charter Leonard and Frances Morgan Patricia House, Mary Matthews member Daniel Henson were Lonnie C. Spruill Jr., John Slade, and Frank B. Coakley.

Tina King, Lyndan Wesson, Bettye Dorsey, Wayne Dorsey, vice polaris E. Dean and Meredith Evans Jr., Marsha and Charles Owens

Melvin Johnson, Edna Rich, Roz and Stan Lawrence

Photos by Dr. A. Lois De Laine

Randall James, 17 International Grand Polaris, Gwen James, Adrienne Walker-Pittman, Jerry O. Pittman, 16th International Grand Polaris

Erica F. Cryor, Michael Cryor, Rosalyn Smith

Sandy Elliott, Karen Waddy, Nicholas Waddy.

Standing are Nina Spencer, Connie Curry

The Afro-American, January 24, 2015 - January 30, 2015

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James Wright, president of Black Authors Guild will host â&#x20AC;&#x153;Literacy Weeks,â&#x20AC;? 10 a.m. to 5 p.m., Feb. 2-14, at the World Famous Lexington Market to kick off Black History Month. There will be many, many vendors, live entertainment and authors from all over Baltimore, Maryland, Washington, D.C. and the Metropolitan area will be invited to sign their books for you including â&#x20AC;&#x153;Rambling Roseâ&#x20AC;? with both of her books. the Duke Ellington Songbook, in which Miss Fitzgerald recorded a dozen of Billy Strayhornâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s compositions. The group will consist of Imani-Grace Cooper, Cyrus Chestnut, on piano, Elijah Balbed on saxophones, Eliot Seppa on bass and Abinnet Berhanu on drums. This is a free concert, but donations are appreciated. For more information, call Vernard at 202-262-7571.

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the American Civil War. If you are one of those individuals into History, I believe this one is for you. It is at the Benjamin Banneker Historical Park and Museum, 300 Oella Avenue in Baltimore from this weekend thru the end of February. You can call 410-887-1081 for more information.

I just got word that C&V Productions is hosting â&#x20AC;&#x153;Royal Pennsylvania Avenue Review; Re-Visited,â&#x20AC;?

James â&#x20AC;&#x153;Big Jimâ&#x20AC;? Staton is featuring the look-a-like spreading the word with his with make-up, clothes out-of-site music of oldies and and voice impersonator blues on WEAA 88.9 FM every of the Marvelettes, Saturday morning from 6 â&#x20AC;&#x201C; 10 a.m. and every Thursday from Martha Reeves and the 8 p.m. to 12 midnight he is Vandellas and Mary spinning the blues like you Wells and other female never heard before anywhere groups from the 60â&#x20AC;&#x2122;s. else. He really takes you back.

They are in search of Great show, check it out. artist impersonators, (female or male) that can perform like any of these artists. Karaoke or with a band is your choice. Top prize is $1,000. I think I will start tuning up my voice for this one. â&#x20AC;&#x153;ME-----ME-------ME------ME----MEâ&#x20AC;?! The event will be held in May 2015. If interested, call Vanessa or Cleveland at 443-660-8211.

Vernard Gray of East River Jazz is presenting â&#x20AC;&#x153;Celebrating Strayhorn.â&#x20AC;? For you jazz lovers, a planned series of conversations and performances, honoring the legacy of and 100th anniversary of composer William â&#x20AC;&#x153;Billyâ&#x20AC;?

Strayhornâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s birthday. The first of these series will start 6 p.m., Feb. 2, at the Kennedy Centerâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Millennium Stage, 2700 F. Street NW, Washington, D.C. Afro Blue vocalist, Imani-Grace Cooper and her ensemble will sing Ella Fitzgeraldâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s 1957 recording project; Ella Fitzgerald Sings

AFRO-AMERICAN (DC)

â&#x20AC;&#x153;BLACK HISTORY MONTH AROUND THE CORNERâ&#x20AC;?

Hello folks, my dear readers and fans, I sure hope you are keeping warm and wrapping up good when you go out to party. So many of my friends have got the flu or a cold and it is slowly spreading, so protect your body. It is not very much going on in Baltimore this week because organizations and clubs are getting ready for Black History Month in February.

But I have a few things I want you to check out and support.

Caton Castle Night Club on Caton and Hilton is featuring a group called, â&#x20AC;&#x153;Firm Roots.â&#x20AC;? Many of you jazz lovers will recognize these guys; they are Brad Collins on saxophone and vocals, Benjie Porecki on organ and Mark Prince on drums, 6 p.m., Jan. 24. For ticket information, call 410-566-7086.

The Benjamin Banneker Historical Park and Museum has a new exhibit from Banneker Douglass called, â&#x20AC;&#x153;The Quests for Freedom and Equality.â&#x20AC;? The aim of this exhibit is to commemorate the early efforts of Marylandâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s African Americans and their allies in their pursuit of freedom and equality for all. The exhibit reveals some of the key and lesserknown movements from the colonial era to the decade before

BALTIMORE & DC COMBO

B2

January 24, 2015 - January 30, 2015, The Afro-American

B3

ARTS & CULTURE

Interview

The ‘Wedding Ringer’ Film Review

Daniels Builds a TV ‘Empire’ Kevin Hart and Josh Gad Co-Star in Unlikely-Buddies Comedy

By Kam Williams Special to the AFRO

By Kam Williams Special to the AFRO

After directing and/or producing such successful feature films as The Butler, Monster’s Ball [for which Halle Berry won an Academy Award], and Precious [for which Mo’Nique won hers], twotime Oscar-nominee Lee Daniels [for Precious] has set his sights on TV for the first time. Here, he talks about directing the new nighttime soap opera Empire, co-starring Terrence Howard and Taraji P. Henson.

Kam Williams: Hi Lee, thanks for another opportunity to speak with you.

Lee Daniels: Great, Kam. How are you?

KW: All is well, thanks.

What was the source of Taraji P. Henson (top) and Terrence Howard star in the new TV drama ‘Empire.’

it’s the African-American experience.

KW: Which character are you? Lucious Lyon [played

by Terrence Howard]?

LD: I’m Lucious…

I’m Jamal… I’m all of the characters. My sister and my cousins are Cookie [played by Taraji P. Henson].

Cookie’s little bit of all of them.

“I think it’s the African-American experience.”

– Lee Daniels inspiration for Empire?

LD: My partner, Danny Strong, came to me with this idea of telling a story about my life, and merging that with music and the Hip-Hop world. He wrote The Butler and originally wanted to do Empire also as a movie.

KW: I had no idea it was semi-autobiographical. Why TV, as opposed to the big screen?

An imagining of the real night Cassius Clay, soon to be Muhammad Ali, celebrated his 1964 world heavyweight victory with activist Malcolm X, singer Sam Cooke, and football star Jim Brown.

LD: What happened was we decided that’s enough with movies, let’s do it for television so that we could bring this to life for America on a weekly basis. It picks up, historically, where The Butler left off, and deals with race relations. It’s a little bit like my family, a little like some friends of mine with money, their world, and a little like some of my friends without money, their world. I think

KW: Harriet PakulaTeweles asks: How do film actors like Terrence and Taraji make the transition from the big screen to the small screen?

LD: That’s a very good question and a very complicated one, because with film we get the luxury of time. It works at a different pace. It’s nice and slow. As a film director and as film actors, you get used to a certain rhythm that’s slow. But with TV, it’s hurry, hurry, hurry, hurry, hurry.

It’s a different pace. So, it’s about adjusting to the pace.

It’s not meant for everybody.

Doug Harris (Josh Gad) and Gretchen Palmer (Kaley Cuoco-Sweeting) are putting the finishing touches on their impending wedding. Trouble is the socially-challenged groom has yet to find a best man and they’re set to exchange vows in just ten days.

He’s been rejected by every acquaintance he’s approached, receiving rude responses ranging from “I thought you died” to “I didn’t even invite you to my wedding.” So, Doug decides to hide his awkward predicament from his fiancée, since he’s too embarrassed to admit that he doesn’t have any friends.

Instead, he hires a professional best man, Jimmy Callahan (Kevin Hart), along with seven strangers to serve as his groomsmen. Can these guys get to know Doug well enough in a week to convince Gretchen and Josh Gad and Kevin Hart star in The Wedding Ringer. members of the wedding party that they’re longlost friends?

That is the preposterous point of stage such an elaborate scheme rather than departure of The Wedding Ringer, an simply explain the situation to his brideunlikely-buddies comedy marking the to-be? directorial debut of Yale University graduate Check your brain at the box office, and Jeremy Garelick. Provided you are not motor-mouthed Kevin Hart, surrounded offended by and are willing to suspend by a talented cast of seasoned comedians, disbelief about the farfetched setup, you’ll will keep you in stitches for the duration actually be richly rewarded by the hilarious, of a decidedly-lowbrow, politicallybad boy hijinks about to ensue. incorrect misadventure.

Most of the laughs emanate from the attempt by that motley assortment Very Good (3 stars) of unsavory characters to impersonate Rated R for crude humor, pervasive refined, white-collar types ranging from profanity, coarse sexuality and brief a podiatrist, to a principal, to a lawyer, graphic nudity to a professor. The sham of a best man Running time: 101 minutes adopts the alias “Bic Mitchum” and passes Distributor: Screen Gems

KW: Has the frenetic pace frustrated you?

LD: No, I think it’s made me a better director, because I have to think fast. I no longer have the luxury of taking my time. Does that make any sense?

KW: Thanks again for the time, Lee, and best of luck with ‘Empire.’

LD: Thank you, Kam. Talk to you soon.

ONE NIGHT in MIAMI...

By Kemp Powers Directed by Kwame Kwei-Armah

himself off as a priest.

And although he proves convincing at faking bromance, he warns Doug not to develop feelings because, “You’re not buying a new friend. You’re hiring a best man.” But despite this strictly business understanding, coldhearted Jimmy gradually warms to the goofy groom and the two somehow bond anyway.

That unexpected development is what ultimately redeems The Wedding Ringer’s otherwise pretty repugnant premise. After all, how much hope could there really be for a marriage, if a groom would opt to

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January 24, 2015 - January 30, 2015, The Afro-American

B5

SPORTS

AFRO Sports Desk Faceoff

Did Ohio State’s Cardale Jones Make a Mistake in Returning? a mistake? Perry Green and Stephen D. Riley of the AFRO Sports Desk debate the question.

Cardale Jones

By Perry Green and Stephen D. Riley Special to AFRO A collegiate athlete’s decision to return to school after a big-time season should always be applauded. But in the case of red-hot redshirt sophomore Cardale Jones, his decision is a tad complex. Fresh off Ohio State’s impressive 42-20 victory over Oregon in the national championship, Jones just completed arguably the most important three-game run of a first-time starting signal-caller in NCAA history. He bulldozed Wisconsin before taking down Alabama and finally Oregon, quite a stretch for a third string quarterback who never started a college game before. With his stock sizzling and the team set to return its top two signal callers that started the season, it would’ve made sense for Jones to declare. He chose otherwise and now he returns to a loaded position after a run that would’ve definitely landed him in the pros. Did Jones make

Riley: I love Jones’ decision to return. Yes, he’ll have to beat out J.T. Barrett and Braxton Miller, both very talented quarterbacks before their injuries, to earn a starting job, but he’s done something that the majority of college quarterbacks don’t do, and that championship experience will tilt things in his favor. With only three games starting experience it really wasn’t a hard choice to make. His college experience is next to none and it’ll only help his stock if he comes out and dominates next season after teams have had a chance to scout him in the offseason. It would’ve been a stretch for Jones to crack the first round this year but he assuredly would’ve landed in the first few rounds. If he performs well next year then he’ll lock up a top spot in the 2016 NFL Draft and command a stronger salary. Jumping into the NFL with virtually no college experience outside of three games would’ve been a deep challenge for the 22-year-old, so his return was definitely much needed.

Green: You’ll never see a college rookie complete the run that Jones just did and you’ll never see an NFL stock go from zero to 100 like we just saw with the 6-foot-5, 250-pound specimen that is Jones. I understand the fact that Jones didn’t get a lot of playing experience, but there are quarterbacks that go a full four-year career and never amass the collection of wins that Jones just rung up. No matter how long a college quarterback stays in school, he’ll still have to learn a new system at the next level, so what difference does Jones’ experience make? Whether it’s three games or 30 games, Jones and a guy like former Heisman winner Jameis Winston would’ve both had zero NFL experience going into next season. His stock was blazing and he easily could’ve cashed out after what we just saw. Add in the fact that this season’s original starter, Baxter, and the original backup, Barrett, are set to come back and things could get tough for Jones. Buckeyes coach Urban Meyer could feel

Morgan State Handles FAMU

By Perry Green AFRO Sports Editor The Morgan State Bears basketball team has won two of its last threegames, including a most recent 75-65 home win over Mid-Eastern Athletic Conference(MEAC) foe Florida A&M on Jan. 17 at Hill Field House in Baltimore, Md. The Bears had last week beaten MEAC’s Delaware State, 73-69, on Jan. 10, but fell to University of Maryland-Eastern Shore, 78-53, in another MEAC contest on Jan. 12.

Morgan State was on fire from the tip-off in its win over FAMU Saturday. The Bears

used hot shooting to jump out to an early lead, and went into halftime leading by 12 points. FAMU, however, made a scoring run and cut Morgan’s lead to just two points with 10 minutes left in the game. But the Bears were able to hold FAMU off, and gradually built their lead back up to double digits.

Bears junior forward Cedric Blossom had a career night, posting a double-double of 26 points with 14 rebounds. Junior guard Donte Pretlow added 10 points with six assists for Morgan; senior guard Blake Bozeman scored 11 points with four rebounds. FAMU’s Jermaine Ruttley scored a game-high 28 points with 11 rebounds.

the need to run with senior Braxton Miller as next year will be his last. With Miller and Jones still underclassmen, they’ll eventually get their shot again and Meyer could definitely play that card.

Riley: Jones is banking on beating out both Miller and Braxton, and you have to love that swagger. If you’re concerned about him in a college quarterback battle then what does that say about his NFL chances? The father of a newborn daughter, Jones could’ve easily “cashed out” if he simply wanted a payday but, obviously, a long-term career with a degree backing him is in the quarterback’s head, and you must acknowledge that. Draft stock can be tricky and we really don’t know where Jones would’ve ended up had he declared.

But another season as the starter in Columbus would’ve all but assured him a more stabilized stock and accurate picture for his future. Competition this summer with the other candidates is only going to make him better and another title could land him in NCAA history. And let’s not forget that even with him returning he’ll still only be a redshirt junior. He’s setting himself up for a memorable college career. It was more to gain for Jones to return, and it’ll be exciting to see how he responds.

Green: The same competition that you’re looking forward to seeing him participate in would’ve been that much more intense in the NFL. Jones’ size would’ve granted him a fair chance at the next level despite his level of inexperience, which actually would’ve worked in his favor. With only three games starting experience, an upper level team would’ve been in a more ideal spot to draft him in the later picks, which would’ve given him even more time to get some NFL practice reps in. Nothing is guaranteed in sports, especially contact sports, so striking while the iron is hot can be vital. Even if Jones goes on to win the Heisman next year and adds another title, nothing will be as memorable as his opening three-game act that he just displayed for the nation.

Bowie Squeaks Past Lincoln to Take Lead in CIAA Standings

By Perry Green AFRO Sports Editor The Bowie State Bulldogs advanced to the top of the Central Interscholastic Athletic Association (CIAA) standings after edging out the Lincoln Lions on Jan. 17 in Bowie, Md. The win pushed Bowie State’s overall record to 14-5 and gave them a 6-1 record in the CIAA--currently the best in the association.

Lincoln didn’t make it easy for Bowie State. The Lions (11-6 overall, 5-2 CIAA) outplayed Bowie State in the first half and led by three points at the halftime break.

Lincoln made four of five three-pin attempts and seven of eight free throw attempts during the first 20 minutes of the game. Lincoln came out attacking in the second half as well, and took a 48-39 lead with 14 minutes left to play. But Bowie State made its comeback and eventually cut Lincoln’s lead

to just two points with less thana minute left.

That ultimately set up a scenario of Bulldogs freshman guard Dayshawn Wells getting fouled on a three-point attempt with only three seconds remaining. Wells nailed all three clutch free-throws to give Bowie State a one-point lead and victory.

Bowie State senior forward Cameron Knox scored a game-high 21 points; junior forward Justin Beck added 10 points for the Bulldogs. Chaz Sharpe led Lincoln with 13 points.

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AUTOS WANTED *CASH TODAY* We’ll Buy Any Car (Any Condition) + Free SameDay Pick-Up. Best Cash Offer Guaranteed! Call For FREE Quote: 1-888841-2110

BUSINESS SERVICES Drive traffic to your business and reach 4.1 million readers with just one phone call & one bill. See your business ad in 104 newspapers in Maryland, Delaware and the District of Columbia for just $495.00 per ad placement. The value of newspapers advertising HAS NEVER BEEN STRONGER....call 1-855-721-6332 x 6 today to place your ad before 4.1 million readers. Email Wanda Smith @ wsmith@mddcpress. com or visit our website at www.mddcpress.com.

BUSINESS OPPORTUNITY Place your ad today in both The Baltimore Sun and The Washington Post newspapers, along with 10 other daily newspapers five days per week. For just pennies on the dollar reach 2.5 million readers through the Daily Classified Connection Network in 3 states: CALL TODAY; SPACE is VERY LIMITED; CALL 1-855721-6332 x 6 or email wsmith@mddcpress. com or visit our website at www.mddcpress.com

EDUCATION TRAINING AVIATION Grads work with JetBlue, Boeing, Delta and othersstart here with hands on training for FAA certification. Financial aid if qualified. Call Aviation Institute of Maintenance 866-823-6729 MEDICAL BILLING TRAINING PROGRAM! Train to process insurance and Medical Billing from home! NO EXPERIENCE NEEDED! Online training at CTI gets you job ready! HS Diploma/Ged & Computer/Internet needed.

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LANDS FOR SALE SPORTSMAN CABIN SWEEPING MTN. VIEWS SHORT DRIVE DC 5.5ACRES $119,900 Finished log sided cabin on Open/wooded park like parcel Close to lake and public land Ready for you to enjoy. CALL NOW 800-888-1262 Hillcrestrealty.us

LOTS & ACREAGE WATERFRONT LOTS-Virginia’s Eastern Shore Was $325K Now from $65,000 - Community Center/Pool. 1 acre+ lots, Bay & Ocean Access, Great Fishing, Crabbing, Kayaking.

Custom Homes www. oldemillpointe.com 757-824-0808

REAL ESTATE Discover Delaware’s Resort Living Without Resort Pricing! Milder winters & low taxes!

Gated Community with amazing amenities! New Homes $80’s. Brochures available 1-866-6290770 www.coolbranch. com REAL ESTATE RENTALS Retire on Rentals In this market you can obtain financial independence with the acquisition of the right properties. With my help, get cash flow and equity immediately. LPP 202-391-4609 SERVS./MISC. Want a larger footprint in the marketplace consider advertising in the MDDC Display 2x2 or 2x4 Advertising Network. Reach 3.6 million readers every week by placing your ad in 82 newspapers in Maryland, Delaware and the District of Columbia.

With just one phone call, your business and/ or product will be seen by 3.6 million readers HURRY....space is limited, CALL TODAY!!

Call 1-855-721-6332 x 6 or email wsmith@ mddcpress.com or visit our website at www. mddcpress.com

SUPPORT OUR ADVERTISERS

TYPESET: Wed Jan 14 15:24:38 EST 2015

LEGAL NOTICES

HOUSING AUTHORITY OF BALTIMORE CITY Request for Proposals (RFP) Legal Services RFP Number: B-1784-15 The Housing Authority of Baltimore City (”HABC”), through its Office of Legal Affairs, is seeking the services of one or more qualified and interested law firms to provide legal services involving various legal fields.

These services include consultation on various legal issues; representation of HABC in litigation, including but not limited to defense of mold claims or other matters not covered by HABC’s insurance (except for lead paint defense), real estate matters; or other legal services as HABC may require.

PROPOSALS WILL BE DUE no later than 2:00 p.m. Eastern Time on Wednesday, February 25, 2015.

A non-mandatory pre-proposal conference will be held on Wednesday, February 4, 2015 at 10:00 a.m. in the Charles L. Benton Building, 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.

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

The RFP and all supporting documents may be obtained on or after Monday, January 26, 2015, from the following location:

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NAME: ________________________________________________ ADDRESS: _____________________________________________ PHONE NO.:____________________________________________ CLASSIFICATION: ______________________________________ (Room, Apt., House, etc.)

INSERTION DATE:_________________

BALTIMORE AFRO-AMERICAN NEWSPAPER Legal Advertising Rates Effective October 1, 2008

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 B-1784-15.

TYPESET: Wed Jan 21 14:27:19 EST 2015 BALTIMORE CITY COUNCIL PUBLIC HEARING ON BILL NO. 14-0444 The Land Use and Transportation Committee of the Baltimore City Council will meet on Wednesday, February 4, 2015 at 1:10 p.m. in the City Council Chambers, 4th floor, City Hall, 100 N. Holliday Street to conduct a public hearing on City Council Bill No. 14-0444.

CC 14-0444 ORDINANCE- Zoning - Sign Regulations - ”Sponsor-aRoad” Signs For the purpose of exempting from the Zoning Code’s sign regulations certainsigns posted by or on behalf of the City to acknowledge business entities or otherpersons sponsoring a street maintenance - services program.

PROBATE DIVISION (Estates) 202-332-0080 PROBATE NOTICES a. Order Nisi $ 60 per insertion b. Small Estates (single publication $ 60 per insertion c. Notice to Creditors 1. Domestic $ 60 per insertion 2. Foreign $ 60 per insertion d. Escheated Estates $ 60 per insertion e. Standard Probates

CIVIL NOTICES a. Name Changes 202-879-1133 b. Real Property

ANNE ARUNDEL COUNTY, MARYLAND Annapolis, Maryland ANNOUNCEMENT REQUEST FOR BIDS

a. Absent Defendant b. Absolute Divorce c. Custody Divorce

Cost Qualification Range for this work shall be $5,000,000.01 to $10,000,000.00A ”Pre-Bidding Information” session will be conducted in the Abel Wolman Building 3rd Floor Conference Room on January 30, 2015 at 10:00 A.M. A site visit will take place at 1:30 P.M. on the same day.

• Your History • Your Community • Your News

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

$ 80.00 $ 200.00

$ 150.00 $ 150.00 $150.00

To place your ad, call 1-800-237-6892, ext. 262, Public Notices $50.00 & up depending on size, Baltimore Legal Notices are $24.84 per inch.

1-800 (AFRO) 892 For Proof of Publication, please call 1-800-237-6892, ext. 244

On or after December 29, 2014, Plans and Specifications may be obtained from the Anne Arundel County Web Page at the following address: http:// www.aacounty.org/CentServ/Purchasing/index.cfm Bids will be received TYPESET: Wed Jan 21 14:26:35 EST 2015 LEGAL NOTICES until time/date shown below, at the Purchasing Office, Heritage Office Complex, 2660 Riva Road, 3rd Floor, Annapolis, MD 21401. Bids received after the date and time set will be rejected.

CITY OF BALTIMORE DEPARTMENT OF PUBLIC WORKS Due by 1:30 p.m. Local Time, Tuesday, February 3, 2015 OFFICE OF ENGINEERING AND CONSTRUCITON Project: Sands Road Bridge Replacement over Wilson Owens BranchNOTICE OF LETTING Project No.: H428001Contact: Dennis Fretz 410 222-7345 Sealed Bids or Proposals, in duplicate addressed to the Board of Estimates William L. Schull, C.P.M., CPPB of the Mayor and City Council of Baltimore and marked for Water Contract Purchasing Agent No. 1295-Towson Generator and Main Substation will be received at the TYPESET: Wed Jan 21 14:27:39 EST 2015 Office of the Comptroller, Room 204, City Hall, Baltimore, Maryland until 11:00 A.M. on Wednesday, March 11, 2015. Positively no bids will be received after 11:00 A.M. Bids will be publicly opened by the Board of City of Baltimore Estimates in Room 215, City Hall at Noon.

Department of Finance The Contract Documents may be examined, without charge, in Room 6 Bureau of Purchases located on the first floor of the Abel Wolman Municipal Building, 200 N. Holliday Street, Baltimore, Maryland 21202 as of Friday, January 23, 2015 Sealed proposals addressed to the Board of and copies may be purchased for a non-refundable cost of $150.00.

Estimates of Baltimore will be received until, Conditions and requirements of the Bid are found in the bid package. but not later than 11:00a.m. local time on the All contractors bidding on this Contract must first be prequalified by the City following date(s) for the stated requirements: of Baltimore Contractors Qualification Committee. Interested parties should call 410-396-6883 or contact the Committee at 3000 Druid Park FEBRUARY 11, 2015 Drive, Baltimore, Maryland 21215. If a bid is submitted by a joint venture *FUEL AND LUBE TRUCK B50003937 (”JV”), then in that event, the document that established the JV shall be submitted with the bid for verification purposes. The THE ENTIRE SOLICITATION DOCUMENT Prequalification Category required for bidding on this project is F16000 CAN BE VIEWED AND DOWN LOADER BY (Electrical) AND Baltimore County Work Classification F.3, UtilitiesVISITING THE CITY’S WEB SITE: Storm Drains (Construction of Storm Drain Pipelines in County Rights-of-Way and Construction Incidental thereto). www.baltimorecitibuy.org

afro.com

$180.00 per 3 weeks

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

BY repealing and reordaining, with amendments Article- Zoning Section (s) 11-103 Baltimore City Revised Code (Edition 2000) NOTE: This bill is subject to amendment by the Baltimore City Council EDWARD REISINGER Chairman TYPESET: Wed Jan 14 15:23:15 EST 2015

AFRO Classified minimum ad rate is $26.54 per col. inch (an inch consists of up to 20 words).

Mail in your ad on form below along with CHECK or MONEY ORDER to: WASHINGTON AFRO-AMERICAN CO. 1917 Benning Road, N.E. Washington, D.C. 20002-4723 Attn: Clsf. Adv. Dept.

Principal Item of work for this project are: Provide and build a building for a generator Provide and install a standby generator in the building Provide and build a building for new switchgear Provide and install the switchgearDemolish the existing substation and equipment The MBE goal is 27% The WBE goal is 8% WATER CONTRACT 1295 APPROVED: Bernice H. Taylor Clerk, Board of Estimates APPROVED: Rudolph S. Chow, P.E. Director of Public Works

YOU KNOW YOUR’E IN THE KNOW...WHEN YOU READ THE AFRO

410-554-8200

AD NETWORK

Payment Policy for legal notice advertisements. Effective immediately, The Afro American Newspapers will require prepayment for publication of all legal notices. Payment will be accepted in the form of checks, credit card or money order.

Any returned checks will be subject to a $25.00 processing fee and may result in the suspension of any future advertising at our discretion.

To advertise in the AFRO Call

Become a Foster Parent!

Treatment Foster Parents work from home, receive a tax-free stipend and professional 24 hour on-call support for providing shelter for a young person who has suffered abuse or neglect. For more information, call the CHOSEN Treatment Foster Care Program at 1-800-621-8834.

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FOSTER PARENT

SAMPLE

TYPESET: Wed Aug 06 14:33:16 EDT 2014

January 24, 2015 - January 30, 2015, The Afro-American TYPESET: Wed Jan 21 14:26:59 2015 LEGALEST NOTICES CITY OF BALTIMORE DEPARTMENT OF PUBLIC WORKS OFFICE OF ENGINEERING AND CONSTRUCTION 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 ER Contract No. 4069-Basin Inserts Phase 2 will be received at the Office of the Comptroller, Room 204, City Hall, Baltimore, Maryland until 11:00 A.M. on Wednesday, February 25, 2015. 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, in Room 6 located on the first floor of the Abel Wolman Municipal Building, 200 N. Holliday Street, Baltimore, Maryland 21202 as of Friday, January 23, 2015 and copies may be purchased for a non-refundable cost of $50.00.

Conditions and requirements of the Bid are found in the bid package.

All contractors bidding on this Contract must first be prequalified by the City of Baltimore Contractors Qualification Committee. Interested parties should call 410-396-6883 or contact the Committee at 3000 Druid Park Drive, Baltimore, Maryland 21215. If a bid is submitted by a joint venture (”JV”), then in that event, the document that established the JV shall be submitted with the bid for verification purposes. The Prequalification Category required for bidding on this project is G90137Manufacturing and Installation of Stormwater Inlet opening Screens and Inserts.

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 300, Abel Wolman Building, Large Conference Room on February 6, 2015 at 10:00 A.M. A site visit will take place at 1:30 P.M. on the same day.

Principal Item of work for this project are:

TYPESET: Wed Jan 21 14:29:35 EST 2015

CITY OF MOUNT RAINIER DIRECTOR OF PUBLIC WORKS OPEN until January 28, 2015 Responsible for organizing/coordinating the department of public works program and oversight of the department’s budget, building facilities, vehicle fleet, and grounds. Oversees the City’s sustainability initiatives, recycling and other waste reduction programs meeting the County solid waste reduction goals. Plans and schedules assignments for a staff of six. BA Public Administration, MS Civil Engineering, construction management or related field.

Experience in construction, LEED certified, Green/Complete Streets, and sustainability programs are a plus. Combination of education, five or more years of relevant experience preferred. Salary range: $61,371 - $90,125 with a great benefit package. Email a cover letter including your salary requirements and resume to Jeannelle Wallace jwallace@ mountrainiermd.org. The City of Mount Rainier is an Equal Opportunity Employer. Minorities and women areJan encouraged apply.

TYPESET: Wed 21 14:30:42to EST 2015

Installation of Stormwater Inlet opening screens and inserts.

APPROVED: Bernice H. Taylor Clerk, Board of Estimates APPROVED: Rudolph S. Chow,P.E. Director of Public Works

SUPPORT OUR ADVERTISERS...

SUBSCRIBE TODAY

ANNE ARUNDEL COUNTY CAREER OPPORTUNITIES

The MBE goal is 0% The WBE goal is 3% ER CONTRACT NO. 4069

CAREER CORNER

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Detention Officer Police Officer, Entry Level Visit our website at www.aacounty.org for additional information and to apply on-line. You may use the Internet at any Anne Arundel County library, or visit our office at 2660 Riva Road in Annapolis. Deadlines to apply posted on website.

AEO/DF/SFE

TYPESET: Wed Jan 21 14:29:13 EST 2015

DEPARTMENT OF PUBLIC WORKS CITY OF MOUNT RAINIER PUBLIC WORKS ADMINISTRATIVE ASSISTANT ___________ Closes January 28, 2014 Duties include: support to staff, public works and code enforcement; Microsoft Word, Outlook, Excel and Publisher in various applications. The salary range for this position is $35,528 - $52,174. Spanish is a plus.

Persons may apply by emailing a cover letter and resume to Veronica Owens at vowens@mountrainiermd.org or by mail to: City of Mount Rainier, One Municipal Place, Mount Rainier, MD 20712 www.mountrainiermd.org.

Mount Rainier is an Equal Opportunity Employer. Minorities and women are encouraged to apply.

ADVERTISING ACCOUNT EXECUTIVE INSIDE SALES ADVERTISING ACCOUNT Advertising SalesEXECUTIVE Professional needed for the AFRO-American Newspapers, Washington, D.C. or Baltimore office.

Entry-Level Advertising Sales Rep needed for the AFRO-American Position provides: Newspapers, Baltimore, M.D. • Competitive compensation package • Salary andprovides: commission plan Position benefits after trial period • • Full Competitive compensation package • • Opportunity Salary and commission plan for fast track advancement • Full benefits after trial period • Candidates Opportunity for fast track should be: advancement • Self starters

• Money motivated Candidates • Goal-oriented should possess: • Good typing/data entry skills • Experienced in online/digital sales

• Excellent customer service skills • Confident in ability to build strong territory • Previous telephone sales experience sales experience preferred • • Previous Excellent written and verbal

communication skills

afro.com • Your History • Your Community • Your News

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

Looking for Interesting Work?

Interested in Public Policy?

The Baltimore City Law Department is seeking an experienced, independent and wise lawyer who is passionate about MBE/WBE programs to serve as the Chief of the Minority and Women’s Business Opportunity Office. The Chief supervises a staff of six and directs the City’s MBE/WBE Program including certifying businesses; investigating violations of the law; monitoring contractors; and certifying compliance with the Program. The Chief has frequent interaction with the Board of Estimates.

Candidates must be licensed to practice law in Maryland and should have at least 10 years of legal experience. Experience with MBE/ WBE programs is highly desirable.

Salary range: $90,000 -$115,000. Actual salary based on experience.

Send resume and cover letter to: Cecilia.Januszkiewicz@baltimorecity.gov Please use “Chief MWBOO” as the subject reference of your email.

Applications should be received by January 30, 2015.

To advertise in the AFRO Call

410-554-8200

You know you’re in the know...

When you read the AFRO!

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The Afro-American, January 24, 2015 - January 30, 2015