Baltimore Afro-American Newspaper May 10 2014

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Volume 122 No. 40

May 10, 2014 - May 10, 2014, The Afro-American A1 $1.00

MAY 10, 2014 - MAY 16, 2014

Paulette Brown, America’s Top Lawyer Baltimore Native, Howard Graduate to Head ABA

By Roberto Alejandro AFRO Staff Writer This August, another glass ceiling will be shattered when Paulette Brown begins her term as president-elect of the American Bar Association and becomes the first

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Black woman to at Howard, however, ever ascend to the she realized law, not position. social work, was Brown will serve her true vocation. as president-elect After graduating for one year before from Howard, Brown taking over as received her law president in August degree from the 2015.

Seton Hall University Brown was School of Law, and raised in northwest has been practicing Courtesy Photo Baltimore as the law since 1976.

Paulette Brown takes office daughter of two She is a partner in a in August 2015. working parents, New Jersey law firm Wilbur and Thelma where she specializes Brown, who protected her and kept in labor law, employment law and her so focused on her school work that commercial litigation. she said she had never even heard of “When I first started going to court marijuana until she reached college. and so forth,” said Brown, “I had Brown entered Howard University the usual experiences. ‘Are you the as a freshman with the intention of defendant? Are you the court reporter? becoming a social worker, knowing Are you the plaintiff? No? Well then, that she wanted to help people. Far who are you then?’ It never occurred from her mind was the possibility of to them that I could be the lawyer.” leading the 400,000-member ABA, Despite her election to the ABA’s which sets standards for lawyers and top post, she said she still faces such law schools throughout the country. assumptions.

“It never occurred to me,” said “I’m still asked whether I’m Brown. a flight attendant,” she said. “As Over the course of that first year Continued on A3

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As Coppin State University prepares to host a town hall style meeting to discuss the plight of Historically Black Colleges and Universities, the West Baltimore institution embodies the mission of the HBCU and the systemic challenges they face. The event, scheduled for 6:30 p.m., May 13, will examine the implications of the Coalition for Excellence and Equity in Higher Education’s lawsuit against

the state of Maryland. A subsequent ruling by U.S. District Court Judge Catherine Blake found the state in violation of the U.S. Constitution for operating a system of higher education still rooted in segregation.

“The Coalition lawsuit gives us an opportunity to revisit an issue that has been a part of education from … Brown

(TriceEdneyWire.com) – An unprecedented surge of gatherings and rallies across the U.S. and abroad sparked by the kidnapping of over 200 Nigerian boarding school girls have made plain the growing anger and frustration of Nigerian and other women over inaction by Nigerian President Goodluck Jonathan and his administration. After three weeks, little more than a call this week for an investigative committee has been

accomplished.

Since the rallies, May 3, photos of the impromptu events have appeared on Facebook and on blogs, widely exposing a story that received little press attention when the crime in the town of Chibot in the state of Borno, was initially reported.

From Union Square in New York City to Oakland, Calif., women filled public plazas with hand-written signs that read “Bring Back Our Girls” “Nigeria the World is Watching” “200 Too Many” among others. Most of the Continued on A3

#BringBackOurGirls

Courtesy Photo

Incoming MSU student government association president, Kia Smith, addresses the students at Morgan State University’s protest rally.

v. Board and before and we’re still dealing with that now the disparities that exist in higher education,” said Virletta Bryant, associate professor of social work at Coppin.

Bryant is also the school’s faculty senate president, which has taken a leadership role in organizing the HBCU town hall meeting. “There still has not been enough done to

close the gap between HBCU and traditionally White institutions.

HBCU are still not at parity … whether you look at it from a capital perspective, whether you’re looking at it from a resource perspective whether you’re looking at it from a programmatic perspective,” Bryant said. “Understanding the lawsuit and the needs of Coppin requires one to understand the broader context and the history that shapes this current lawsuit.”

Bryant argues the Coalition Continued on A4

Governor and Attorney General’s Housing Counselors Say Races Still Tumultuous ‘There’s Life After Foreclosure’

By Sean Yoes Special to the AFRO

Perhaps the two races garnering the most attention statewide are the June 24th Democratic primaries for governor and attorney general.

The environment, the minimum wage, education, the Maryland health exchange, and marijuana are among the issues of great interest in the 2014 race for governor, with three major candidates, Lt. Gov. Anthony Brown, Del. Heather Mizeur, and Attorney General Doug Gansler.

With less than a month before the primary, the general consensus seems

to be that the race is Brown’s to lose; however, the inaugural Maryland Poll

by St. Mary’s College of Maryland suggests the race still remains unsettled.

The poll has Brown with 27

“With less than a month before the primary the general consensus seems to be that the race is Brown’s to lose …”

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Nigerian Women Lead Rallies for Their ‘Missing Girls’ Worldwide

percent support, followed by Gansler at 11 percent and Mizeur with 8 percent. However, a majority 54 percent expressed no preference.

Gansler has dogged Brown over the failed implementation of the

Continued on A4

By Roz Hamlett Special to the AFRO The last of a three-part series on foreclosures.

For many sick, unemployed, and otherwise cash-strapped homeowners, the prospect of losing one’s home feels like the end of the world. But there is light at the end of the tunnel say housing counselors, and in most instances, a much better life can come after the foreclosure. “I think the emotional and mental aspects of foreclosure are the hardest for people to bounce back from because their sense of self is tied to their home,” said Meredith Mishaga, coordinator, Baltimore Homeownership Preservation Coalition (BHPC).

BHPC is a group of more than

Copyright © 2014 by the Afro-American Company

50 non-profit, governmental and professional associations working to prevent or mitigate the effects of foreclosure on Baltimore families and neighborhoods through a variety of proactive and data-driven strategies.

“Most housing counselors will do whatever they can to avoid a situation Continued on A4

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The Afro-American, May 10, 2014 - May 16, 2014

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Congressional Black Caucus Praises Response to Criticism of Army Hairstyle Regulation Female members of the Congressional Black Caucus praised Defense Secretary Chuck Hagel for his swift and “thoughtful” response to their concerns over the discriminatory nature of a new Army regulation that banned certain hairstyles usually worn by women of color.

“Members of the CBC appreciate Secretary Hagel for his prompt response to our letter and for seriously considering our concerns,” CBC Chair Rep. Marcia Fudge said in a statement.

“Secretary Hagel’s response affirms his commitment to ensuring all individuals are welcomed and can continue to be proud of serving in our Armed Forces.”

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‘100 Black Men’ Objection to White House My Brother’s Keeper Initiative Reportedly Resolved

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nondiscriminatory and meant to ensure uniformity. But the CBC challenged those claims.

“Army officials have responded to criticism of the regulation by saying it applies to all soldiers regardless of race, and that they are meant to protect their safety.

However the use of words like ‘unkempt’ and ‘matted’ when referring to traditional hairstyles worn by women of color are offensive and biased,” the caucus wrote in its April 10 letter.

In an April 29 reply, Secretary Hagel said he took the CBC’s concerns “very seriously.”

Hagel said he had directed military staff to review and “revise any offensive language” in the regulation within 30 days, and to review their hairstyle policies pertaining to African Americans “to ensure standards are fair and respectful of our diverse force, while also meeting our military services’ requirements.”

Members of the CBC praised Chuck Hagel for his response to the Army’s new regulations on natural hair styles.

Army.com

On March 31, defense officials released updates to Army Regulation 670-1, a set of grooming and appearance rules. The updates included three new “unauthorized” hairstyles: multiple large braids, headbands other than plain devices, and twists.

The regulations set off an immediate backlash among Black and Hispanic female soldiers, who felt the rule was “racially biased.”

Georgia National Guardswoman Sgt. Jasmine Jacobs, who wears her hair in twists, began a White House petition against the regulation.

“More than 30 percent of females serving in the military are of a race other than White. As of 2011, 36 percent of females in the U.S. stated that they are natural, or refrain from chemically processing their hair,” the petition read. “Females with natural hair take strides to style their natural hair in a professional manner when necessary; however, changes to AR 670-1 offer little to no options for females with natural hair.”

“These new changes are racially biased and the lack of regard for ethnic hair is apparent,” it continued. “This policy needs to be reviewed prior to publishing to allow for neat and maintained T:11” natural hairstyles.”

S:10.5” Army officials responded that the regulation was

An association of African-American leaders recently challenged the White House on one of the requirements of its “My Brother’s Keeper” initiative, a new program aimed at promoting opportunity for young men of color, saying the revised requirement would bar virtually all Black organizations from participating.

The White House initiative is a “collaborative, multidisciplinary approach” to creating a path to success for young Black men through mentorship and community engagement, and is housed under the Justice Department’s Office of Juvenile Justice and Delinquency Prevention.

When he first announced the program in February, President Obama said that organizations would need to have an “active presence” in 30 states to obtain a federal grant to support the program, according to Politic365.com. However, in a request for proposal issue in early April, the Justice Department upped that number to 45 states.

In an April 28 letter to the Department of Justice, 100 Black Men of America President Michael Brown claimed that the revised number would bar his organization, the venerable National Urban League, and virtually every other Black association except the NAACP from participation, The Root reported.

In the wake of that letter, Justice officials met with the group, and appeared to resolve the issue.

“A prompt meeting with Department of Justice representatives addressed our concern and provided a path forward that is satisfactory to us,” 100 Black Men of America Chairman Curley M. Dossman said in a statement to The Root. “We also found that our concern was not related to My Brother’s Keeper which is still moving forward.”

Curley did not specify the manner in which the group’s concerns were addressed, or whether the Justice Department would alter the requirement.

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The Afro-American, May 10, 2014 - May 10, 2014

Nigerian Women

Continued from A1 women wore headwraps or “geles” which have a spiritual significance for Yoruba women.

In New York, Gugu Lethu said she was planning only to meet with a few women in Union Square to show support for the girls and mothers. However her flier for the event was passed from hand to hand and Facebook page to Twitter and close to 300 women turned up.

Morgan State University also hosted a “Bring Back our Girls” rally on campus on May 7. At the event, participants marched from the University Student Center to the Academic Quad.

Repercussions from the spontaneous gatherings were felt in Nigeria as the wife of President Jonathan tearfully took to the airwaves to accuse the grieving mothers of the missing girls of embarrassing her husband and to order the detention of two of the protesting mothers. She also pledged to march to the governor’s office of Borno state to demand the release of the girls although it is widely believed that the girls were spirited away to be sold as brides of men in neighboring Chad or Cameroon or to members of the terrorist group Boko Haram.

Despite the tragedy, a major economic conference is expected to take place in Nigeria’s capital Abuja from May 7 to 9.

President Johnson has given assurances for the safety of the foreign and African guests

May 10, 2014 - May 16, 2014, The Afro-American

expected to attend. The BBC is reporting that schools and government offices are to be closed and arrests are being made.

According to the website of the conference: ”The 24th World Economic Forum on Africa comes at a crucial time for the continent.

Taking place under the theme, Forging Inclusive Growth, Creating Jobs.” Guests include Premier Li Keqiang of China and eleven African heads of state and government.

Some 1,500 people have been killed since January 2014 due to the ongoing fighting between the insurgent Boko Haram group and the Nigerian military.

A U.S. contingent in Nigeria will not be taking part in the girls’ rescue, it was clarified today. Their efforts are limited to security training and crowd control for the business

A3

Chinedu Nwokeafor, MSU student activist of Nigerian heritage, organizer of the rally. event this week, reports said.

Nigeria’s budget for security this year is more than $6 billion - double the allocation for education.

Meanwhile, the noted author of Half of a

Yellow Sun and most recently, Americanah, published a response to the tragedy called “The President I Want.” The full article can be read at: http://www.thescoopng.com/exclusivechimamanda-adichie-president-want/

Balloon release representing the “release” of the Nigerian girls.

Courtesy Photos

Mr. Kunie Faki, a Nigerian student speaking to the crowd at Morgan State University’s “Bring Back Our Girls” rally.

Brown

Continued from A1

recently as two weeks ago.”

It is this persisting presumption of Black female inferiority that makes her election to the presidency of the ABA so historically significant.

“Her ascension to the presidency just opens the door for so many AfricanAmerican females to even believe that that is possible,” said Alicia Wilson, the fundraising committee cochair for the Alliance of Black Women Attorneys of Maryland. “She has broken down barriers and opened up doors and kept them open for a whole host of AfricanAmerican women attorneys.”

After 38 years in a Whitemale dominated profession, Brown has encountered, challenged, and broken through many a glass ceiling, and has left a legacy of often unsung accomplishments. She said her father helped set her success in motion by instilling in Brown the value that there is no such thing as “women’s work.”

“My father always said there were no girl jobs and no boy jobs,” said Brown. “My brother had to wash dishes and clean up just like we did—and my father did too.

He did laundry, he cooked, he did everything. And he went to work every day.”

Brown said she believes that her selection by the

ABA leadership as its next president carries with it a great responsibility.

Because the term of ABA president only lasts one year, Brown said she is determined to focus on no more than three goals for which she can produce tangible results within that time frame. While the exact areas of focus are still being negotiated with a group of trusted advisers, among her possible areas of interest are increasing awareness of the fact that the elderly are often among the groups most subjected to domestic violence, as well as the need to improve the access to counsel for those who cannot afford it under the Supreme Court’s decision in Gideon v. Wainwright.

One thing she will certainly do, however, is make sure that wherever she travels in an official capacity for the ABA she has the opportunity to impact young children who themselves may not see the possibility of a position like ABA president in their future.

“They need to see that somebody up close and personal, that they can have a conversation with, that this is something that they can do,” said Brown. “That even if it had never occurred to them, because it had never occurred to me, that as time goes on, it can be done.”

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May 10, 2014 - May 10, 2014, The Afro-American

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Entertainers, Political Figures Lead Pomp and Circumstance for Class of 2014

By AFRO Staff Commencement season for colleges and universities in the Baltimore-Washington corridor will feature controversial figures as major entertainers and personalities address the graduates of the class of 2014 and receive honorary degrees.

Baltimore native Wes Moore, bestselling author, Army combat veteran, social entrepreneur and broadcast executive, will deliver the keynote address at the University of Maryland, College Park, May 16. Moore, a Rhodes Scholar and Johns Hopkins graduate, will receive an honorary doctorate at the commencement exercises.

At the UMD graduation, the list of honorary degrees includes an honorary doctor of public service to be issued to Michael Cryor, chairman of the Board of Visitors of the University of Maryland’s School of Medicine. Cryor, president of The Cryor Group, is chairman of the state Democratic Party and a member of the board of directors of Baltimore Gas & Electric.

Patricia L. Schmoke, wife of former Baltimore mayor Kurt Schmoke and a

practicing ophthalmologist in Baltimore, will be the commencement speaker at Coppin State University’s graduation ceremony May 17. She earned her undergraduate degree at Coppin State.

Dr. Schmoke, a Baltimore native, is a member of Links Incorporated Harbor City Chapter; The Monumental Medical Society; University of Maryland Cancer Center, and a diplomat of the Maryland Board of Ophthalmology.

Calvin Butler, chief executive officer of Baltimore Gas and Electric, will be the commencement speaker at Morgan State University’s ceremony on May 17. Butler, who received the YMCA’s African American and Hispanic

‘There’s Life after Foreclosure’

Leadership Award, received his bachelor’s degree from Bradley University in Peoria, Ill. and a law degree from Washington University School of Law in St. Louis.

Shirley Sherrod, a civil rights activist who was forced to resign as Georgia State Director of Rural Development for the United States Department of Agriculture after a maliciously edited video suggested she was a racist, will be the commencement speaker at Sojourner Douglass College graduation exercises June 29 in Baltimore.

In D.C., Mother’s Day weekend will mark graduation ceremonies for Howard University and the University of the District of Columbia (UDC).

Entertainment mogul and Howard dropout Sean Combs is to deliver the main address at Howard’s graduation exercises when

HBCU Town Hall

Continued from A1

Continued from A1

of foreclosure and bring about a soft landing, i.e., a short sale or deed in lieu of foreclosure.

But there must be an acknowledgement that your home doesn’t make you, and there’s life after foreclosure,” said Mishaga.

When viewed from a broad perspective, the housing foreclosures in Maryland are up by almost 35 percent from a year ago, according to recent data from the Maryland Department of Housing and Community Development (DHCD), despite a decline in foreclosure activity during the first quarter of 2014. Maryland now ranks fourth in foreclosures, behind Wyoming, New Jersey and Connecticut.

Homeownership and upward mobility are extolled as the epitome of the American Dream. The Clinton and Bush Administrations both pushed for ways to get lenders to give mortgage loans to first-time buyers. Because of these efforts, each administration belongs

lawsuit clearly has broader implications beyond the fate of the four schools – Coppin, University of Maryland Eastern Shore, Morgan State University, and Bowie State University – it represents.

“The framers recognize that this is something that has hurt all the HBCU and the response needs to be one that is equal to the framing of the issue. I do know that we as the HBCU community need to increase collaboration and that is something that I have not seen in the past,” she said.

“The good thing is that we have a more diverse pool of people that are going to college or who are applying for college, but we’ve got to position ourselves to be able to meet their needs. And I think that’s something that HBCUs historically have done well and again, they’ve done it with limited resources,” Bryant added.

However, given the current political climate, e.g. the

certain rights during foreclosure, namely, that most leases will survive foreclosure and the foreclosure sale purchaser becomes the new landlord.

Most renters have the right to continue renting the property for the rest of their lease term, or at least to receive a 90-day notice to vacate after the foreclosure process is complete. “As long as folks know their rights, it works out,” Hill said, noting that deceptive notices from purchasers sometimes request that tenants provide the last six months of rent receipts. “But this isn’t the law.”

Sometimes real estate agents will offer a “Cash for Keys” deal in which a tenant receives a cash payment in exchange for moving out. “Sometimes this is okay, but it can also be a major problem,” said Hill, “because tenant rights extend beyond this.”

Up close and personal in peoples’ lives, foreclosure activity is often a pile of unopened mail, unanswered phone calls from lenders, debilitating shame, depression, and a long list of stress-related ailments.

Claudia Wilson, Director of Housing Counseling and Operations at the Southeast Community Development Corporation in Baltimore City, said that once the crisis ends, “a lot of wreckage will be left behind. People will have lost their homes, health, and livelihoods. Given all that people are dealing with, you really can’t blame anyone for not opening their mail.”

Wilson recalls a 79-year– Meredith Mishaga old woman who worked on the list of those who deserve a share of the full time, with a heart condition that led to a blame for the housing bubble and bust. long-term hospitalization. “She was too far In 2008, Wall Street bank CEOs were behind, and there was no number for her that grilled by Congressional committees about would work because of her ARM [Adjustable their role in the housing crisis that brought Rate Mortgage], which clearly was not the best the nation’s financial system to the brink. The loan option for someone in her situation,” said legislative hearings revealed an elite group of Wilson.

Ivy Leaguers that encouraged a casino culture “Many people are ill, and they may of greed and gambling, collected billions never be able to pay their mortgage again. in bailouts and compensation packages, As housing counselors, we must sometimes and claimed no responsibility for predatory negotiate with a lender just so that a person lending practices and subprime mortgages that can continue to get their cancer treatments,” wrecked lives. she said.

Lenders issued sub-prime loans to people Wilson believes the foreclosure crisis is unable to qualify for traditional loans. a multi-layered problem resulting from the People qualifying for traditional loans were collision of many issues at the same time. The encouraged to purchase too much house housing fallout has been exacerbated by high through variable rate loans featuring lower unemployment and the Great Recession which interest rates and lowered payments on the left increased income inequality and wealth front end with balloon payments set to explode loss that disproportionately affected African like land mines later.

Americans and other minority groups.

The foreclosure crisis has been an ordeal “I resent the notion that somehow you’re for homeowners, and has caused enormous a lesser person because you don’t own a problems for tenants living in foreclosed home,” said Wilson, who points to stable homes. According to Matt Hill, an attorney rental markets in Chicago, New York and other with the Public Justice Center, tenants have cities. “We’re not in a pretty place today. We rights to certain notifications throughout the have to dial it back. Homeownership is not a foreclosure process. sustainable option for everyone.

A bona fide tenant is anyone who is not “We had a myth of wealth. What [we] the parent, child, or spouse of a mortgagee, thought we had is not what we had. What is but who pays fair market rent and received a critical is that someone can live with dignity rental/lease agreement as a result of an arm’s and get help with dignity. Our job is to help length transaction. When the bank forecloses, them know their options.” it must take back the property subject to the Call the HOPE Hotline at 877-462-7555 as tenant’s existing lease. The “Protecting Tenants soon as you start having any trouble paying for at Foreclosure Act” provides most renters with your home.

“I think the emotional and mental aspects of foreclosure are the hardest for people to bounce back from because their sense of self is tied to their home. …

But there must be an acknowledgement that your home doesn’t make you, and there’s life after foreclosure.”

honorary degrees are to be awarded to CNN anchor Wolf Blitzer; Clive Callender, a surgery professor at Howard’s medical school (and the first doctor to perform a transplant at Howard University Hospital); jazz artist Benny Golson, and PepsiCo chairman and chief executive Indra Nooyi.

Also on May 11, Mary Frances Berry, former chairwoman of the U.S. Commission on Civil Rights will deliver the commencement address at UDC. She also was the Assistant Secretary for Education in the U.S. Department of Health, Education, and Welfare (HEW) and has held the posts of provost of the University of Maryland and chancellor of the University of Colorado at Boulder.

She will join Marie Johns, former Deputy Administrator for the Small Business Administration, and William R. Spaulding, who served on the first elected D.C. City Council, as UDC honorary degree recipients.

On May 19, Norman R. Augustine, regent of the University System of Maryland, will be Bowie State University’s commencement speaker. The event will be held at the Comcast Center in College Park.

“There still has not been enough done to close the gap between HBCU and traditionally White institutions. HBCU are still not at parity … whether you look at it from a capital perspective, whether you’re looking at it from a resource perspective whether you’re looking at it from a programmatic perspective.”

– Virletta Bryant organized political attempt at voter suppression in several states and the recent Supreme Court ruling effectively upholding Michigan’s affirmative action ban, makes fulfilling the mission of the HBCU that much more harrowing in 2014.

“We’re at this point in time where a lot of the things that we have worked for

we’re now watching them from the perspective of being in jeopardy,” Bryant said.

“Despite all of the starvation, despite all of the racism HBCUs have experienced since their existence … despite all of those challenges we have still been able to educate and improve the lives of generations. So, I feel that our best days are ahead of us.”

Races

Continued from A1 Maryland Health Exchange and Mizeur has garnered attention because of her staunchly progressive – or liberal depending upon one’s sensibilities – campaign, which includes her embrace of a living wage, patient-assisted suicide and a moratorium on fracking.

But, neither Gansler nor Mizeur have gained significant ground on Brown in any of the major polls taken since the beginning of the year.

The three major candidates participated in the first televised gubernatorial debate on May 7. The event – moderated by the host of NBC’s Meet the Press David Gregory – took place at the University of Maryland at College Park and was co- hosted by the school and Bowie State University. But, there has been a vigorous debate over the gubernatorial debates themselves within the community and between the candidates vying to establish the direction of the state for the next several years.

Many were outraged the initial debate was not broadcast in the Greater Baltimore viewing area (it was broadcasted live by WRC-TV in Washington) excluding what was once unequivocally the most important jurisdiction in the state. Another televised debate with the three candidates is set for June 2, sponsored by Maryland Public Television, which is expected to be broadcast statewide.

However, a third televised debate, at WBFF (Channel 45) in Baltimore, will probably only include two of the major candidates, Mizeur and Gansler. The Brown campaign says the Lt. Gov. will not participate.

According to the Brown campaign a radio

debate between the gubernatorial candidates (a date has yet to be determined) will be broadcast in the Baltimore area by Radio One station WOLB (1010 AM) moderated by former state senator Larry Young, host of, “The Larry Young Morning Show.”

The battle to succeed Gansler as Maryland Attorney General includes Prince George’s County Del. Aisha Braveboy, Baltimore County Del. Jon Cardin, Montgomery County Sen. Brian Frosh and Montgomery County Del. Bill Frick.

A poll published by the Washington Post in February had Cardin with a lead over his Democratic rivals at 21 percent support.

However, Braveboy the chair of the state’s Legislative Black Caucus trailed Cardin by single digits with 12 percent with 40 percent of those polled offering no opinion. The poll shows Frosh with 5 percent support and Frick following with 4 percent.

If Braveboy were to win she would be the state’s first attorney general of color, as well as the first female to hold the office. She has focused on the lack of diversity within the Maryland State Police, the foreclosure crisis, and the plight of the state’s Historically Black Colleges and Universities.

Cardin, the nephew of Maryland Sen. Ben Cardin has focused on modernizing crime fighting throughout the state, specifically a stronger, law enforcement focus on cyber crime.

Frosh, chair of the Senate Judicial Proceedings Committee since 2003, characterizes himself as one of the leaders on the implementation of Maryland’s landmark gun control legislation, the Maryland Firearm Safety Act.

May 10, 2014 - May 16, 2014, The Afro-American

May 17th.

They Also made Brown Happen

By Zenitha Prince Senior AFRO Correspondent

Brown v. Board of Education, the landmark decision changing the course of history on May 17, 1954, provided a new outlook on the prospect of quality education for millions of children. Along with it comes the names of history makers synonymous with the case like Thurgood Marshall and Linda Brown, but the AFRO American Newspaper would add to the list, the “unsung heroes” who worked alongside them, charted the course and fought tirelessly for the victory.

The architect of the NAACP legal defense fund of Brown, educator and lawyer Charles Hamilton Houston persisted until his death just months before the landmark decision.

Barbara Johns and Robert R. Moton High School in Farmville, Va. proved school children cared as much about their education as their parents. Charismatic lawyers Spottswood Robinson and Charles E. C. Hayes represented the legal defenses in the desegregation in the Farmville and Washington, D.C. cases respectively. Constance Baker Motley directed the legal campaign that resulted in the admission of James H. Meredith to the University of Mississippi in 1962.

And finally, Ada Sipuel, the woman who did not rest until she was provided the graduate school education she deserved.

These individuals are the unsung history makers of a landmark movement that without doubt influenced education, but beyond that, all facets of fair and equal public accommodations. These names should be remembered; these stories told.

R.R. Moton High School

In the fight for public school desegregation in Virginia, R.R. Moton High School was ground zero. The all-Black school was located in Farmville, a rural tobacco farming community just a few miles from Appomattox, Va., the site of Robert E. Lee’s surrender to Ulysses S. Grant to end the Civil War, according to the Smithsonian website.

In 1951, a group of students led by 11th-grader Barbara Johns led a strike to demand a better school. Moton High was overcrowded and underfunded, with leaky, poorly heated classrooms, and the nearby Farmville High School, a large and well-equipped Whites-only institution, served as a constant reminder of the inequities of segregation.

Spottswood Robinson III and Oliver Hill of the NAACP Legal Defense and Educational Fund met with the students and said if enough of their parents would join a lawsuit — an action that could cost those parents their jobs or their bank loans or their farms — the LDF lawyers would file it, according to PBS. org. The parents proved equally stalwart, and one month after the strike began, Robinson filed the lawsuit, Davis v. the School Board of Prince Edward County in the federal court in

Charles Hamilton Houston, “The Man Who Killed Jim Crow”

Charles Hamilton Houston was an African-American lawyer whose brilliant strategy of using the inherent inequality of the “separate but equal” philosophy (from the Supreme Court’s Plessy v. Ferguson decision) as it manifested in public education proved integral to the Brown v. Board victory.

The Washington, D.C. native had a hand in nearly every civil rights case before the Supreme Court from 1930 leading up to Brown v. Board of Education in 1954, according to the NAACP website.

Houston matriculated at Dunbar High School in the District, then at Amherst College, from which he graduated in 1915. For two years, he taught English at Howard University, before leaving to serve in the Army for two years.

The discrimination he saw and experienced in military service influenced Houston’s decision to become an attorney like his father. He enrolled at Harvard Law School, earning his bachelor’s degree in 1922 and his doctoral degree in 1923. While there he became the first African-American to serve as an editor of the Harvard Law Review.

Houston also helped found the National Bar Association, an all-Black organization, in 1925 since the American Bar Association refused to admit African-American attorneys.

As a member of Howard University Law School’s faculty, Houston trained and mentored talented students like Thurgood Marshall and Oliver Hill – the first and second in their class who later argued Brown v. Board of Education – to lead the fight against racial injustice.

Beginning in the 1930s, after leaving Howard, Houston served as the first special counsel to the NAACP, heaving up its civil rights litigation. And he recruited former students like Hill and Marshall, the latter of whom eventually took over as head of the NAACP’s legal team and joined the Supreme Court.

Summing up Houston’s contribution to the struggle against segregation and racism, Marshall later remarked, “We owe it all to Charlie.”

Spottswood Robinson III, Civil Rights Warrior

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Spottswood Robinson III was among the inner circle of the NAACP Legal Defense and Educational Fund and a key litigator in its Brown v. Board of Education case.

Born in Richmond, Va., on July 26, 1916, Robinson attended Virginia Union University and then attended Howard University School of Law, graduating first in his class in 1939, according to Brown@50.org. Like Thurgood Marshall and Oliver Hill, his LDF colleagues, Robinson credits Howard University for instilling within him a sense of social responsibility, which he upheld after his graduation.

Robinson was a faculty member of the Howard University School of Law from his graduation in 1939 until 1947, when he joined the NAACP’s legal team.

Taking the cause of social justice to heart, Robinson, law partner Oliver Hill and others crisscrossed Virginia in the late 1940s and ‘50s, attempting to tear down racism, discrimination and injustice case by case. At one time, according to PBS.org, they had legal actions in 75 school districts.

One of those cases was Davis v. the School Board of Prince Edward County, which was initiated when African-American students from Farmville, Va. decided to strike in protest of the abject state of their school.

One month after the strike began, on May 23, 1951, Robinson filed the lawsuit in U.S. District Court in Richmond. It eventually became one of the cases that was combined to form Brown v. Board of Education.

From 1960-1964, Spottswood Robinson was dean of the Howard University School of Law. He also served as a member of the United States Commission on Civil Rights from 1961 to 1963.

In 1964, Robinson became the first African American appointed to the United States District Court for the District of Columbia. Two years later, he became the first African American appointed to the United States Court of Appeals for the District of Columbia Circuit when he was appointed by President Lyndon Johnson. On May 7, 1981, Judge Robinson became the first African American to serve as chief judge of the court.

Richmond.

Ninth-grader Dorothy Davis was the first plaintiff listed on the complaint on behalf of 117 Moton students and their parents. Johns was not listed on the complaint as her parents had sent her to Alabama, fearing for her safety.

The federal district court rejected the complaint and upheld segregation in Prince Edward County. The LDF team appealed the decision to the Supreme Court as part of Brown v. Board of Education.

Constance Baker Motley, Courtroom Tactician

Like other female freedom fighters of the Civil Rights Movement who rarely grabbed the headlines, Constance Baker Motley was a behind-the-scenes—though no less integral— member of the Brown v. Board legal team.

Born on Sept. 14, 1921, in New Haven, Conn., Motley was one of nine children born to West Indian emigrants, according to Biography.com.

Her involvement in the civil rights campaign began as a teenager when she was banned from a public beach. In high school, Motley became president of the local NAACP youth council.

Motley enrolled at Fisk University but later transferred to New York University, where she earned her economics degree in 1943. Motley went on to earn her law degree from Columbia Law School.

In 1945, fresh from graduate school, Motley became a law clerk for Thurgood Marshall, then-leader of the NAACP Legal Defense Fund, the premier agent in the legal fight against racial injustice. She later joined the group of overworked, underpaid lawyers, and established herself as a force to be reckoned with.

In fact, in 1950, she helped draft the briefs for the Board v. Board of Education complaint.

“Her métier was in the quieter, painstaking preparation and presentation of lawsuits that paved the way to fuller societal participation by blacks,” lauded the New York Times in Motley’s 2005 obituary. “She dressed elegantly, spoke in a low, lilting voice and, in case after case, earned a reputation as the chief courtroom tactician of the civil rights movement.”

Other important victories followed Brown: She represented several student “Freedom Fighters” and Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. More notably, she directed the legal campaign that resulted in the admission of James H. Meredith to the University of Mississippi in 1962. Of the 10 cases she argued before the Supreme Court, Motley won nine.

After a two-year stint as a New York state senator, the apex of Motley’s legal career came in 1966, when she became the first Black woman to serve as a federal judge, overseeing many civil rights cases. She served in that capacity until her death in 2005.

Ada L. Sipuel Fisher, Oklahoma pioneer

Ada Lois Sipuel Fisher challenged the lie that was the “separate but equal” doctrine, and in doing so, chipped away at the walls of segregation and opened the doors of opportunity to

other African-American students.

Fisher née Sipuel was born Feb. 8, 1924, and grew up under Jim Crow in Chickasha, Okla., according to the Oklahoma Historical Society’s Encyclopedia of Oklahoma History and Culture.

An avid student, Fisher graduated from Langston University with honors on May 21, 1945, with dreams of becoming a lawyer.

There were no Black law schools and state statutes prohibited Negroes from attending White state universities. Instead, Oklahoma paid for Blacks to be sent to out-of-state schools that accepted African-American students.

At the behest of the NAACP’s Legal and Educational Defense Fund, Fisher applied for admission to the University of Oklahoma College of Law on Jan. 14, 1946, with an eye to challenging the state’s segregation laws.

The school rejected her application and Fisher’s attorneys, led by Thurgood Marshall and Oklahoman Amos T. Hall, filed suit on April 6, 1946, alleging that the absence of a comparable law school for African-American students required that Fisher be admitted to the university, according to the Civil Rights Digital Library.

A District court and – after appeal – the state supreme court ruled against Fisher in Sipuel v. Board of Regents of the University of Oklahoma. But the U.S. Supreme Court ruled on Jan. 12, 1948, that Oklahoma had to provide Fisher with the same opportunities for securing a legal education as it did for other citizens.

State legislators, instead of allowing Fisher to enter the allWhite law school, hastily threw together a makeshift Black law school, Langston University School of Law, for Fisher to attend.

It was produced in five days and situated in the State Capitol’s Senate rooms.

On March 15, 1948, Fisher’s lawyers filed a motion in the Cleveland County District Court contending that while Langston was certainly “separate” it was by no means providing a legal education that was “equal” to that afforded White students at UO’s law school.

As expected, the District and state supreme court rejected the complaint, and Marshall et al announced their intent to take the case back to the U.S. Supreme Court. Faced with certain loss, the attorney general capitulated, and on June 18, 1949, Fisher enrolled at University of Oklahoma College of Law, becoming the first African-American woman to attend an all-White law school in the South.

Fisher was cordoned off from her fellow classmates in the classroom behind a “Colored” sign, in the cafeteria, and in other areas of the school. Still, she graduated in 1951 with a law degree, and her case served as the forerunner to Brown v. Board.

George E.C. Hayes, “Quiet Pioneer”

George E.C. Hayes was the lead attorney in Bolling v.

Sharpe, which was a standout in the quintet of cases that came to be consolidated under Brown v. Board of Education.

Born July 1, 1894, in Richmond, Va., Hayes lived most of his life in Washington, D.C., where he attended public schools, according to The Free Dictionary’s online legal archives. He matriculated at Brown University. He earned his law degree from Howard University School of Law in 1918; then returned in 1924 to teach, even while maintaining a private practice in the District.

Hayes’ involvement in the Civil Rights Movement began in the 1940s when he worked to desegregate D.C. schools while serving on the District of Columbia Board of Education.

Beginning in late 1949, several Black parents from the District’s Anacostia neighborhood petitioned the Board of Education to allow their children to attend the nearly completed John Phillip Sousa Junior High, according to Wikipedia.com.

The school had hundreds of openings, but African-American children were forced to attend overcrowded Black-only schools.

The petition was denied, and the high school opened, admitting only Whites.

On Sept. 11, 1950, Gardner Bishop, Nicholas Stabile and the Consolidated Parents Group—as they called themselves— attempted to get several African-American students (including the case’s plaintiff, Spottswood Bolling) admitted to the school, but were refused entry by the school’s principal.

James Nabrit, a professor of law at Howard University, and Hayes filed suit on behalf of the group in the District Court for the District of Columbia, which dismissed the complaint. The Supreme Court agreed to hear their appeal.

Hayes offered the oral argument in Bolling, which differed from the other Brown cases in two main ways: while the other Brown cases repudiated the “separate-but-equal” doctrine, Bolling challenged the constitutionality of segregation itself.

And it based that challenge, not in the context of the 14th Amendment’s Equal Protection Clause, which applies only to the states, but under the Fifth Amendment’s Due Process Clause.

The two constitutional provisions were not mutually exclusive, wrote Chief Justice Earl Warren in the high court’s opinion.

“This Court has recognized discrimination may be so unjustifiable as to be violative of due process,” he wrote.

Hayes told the AFRO after the verdict, “We never had any doubt about our case, but we were pleasantly surprised by the unanimous decision. We feel it is a tribute to the American system of American jurisprudence.”

Hayes was known by colleagues as being independent and a “quiet pioneer,” according to The Free Dictionary. He was a lifelong Republican—a rare affiliation among civil rights leaders of the time. He later clashed publicly with the younger, more militant leaders of the movement.

From the AFRO Archives ‘Our Civil Rights’ May 14, 1949 Farmville School Rally, May 12, 1951 ‘She Reached Her Goal’ Feb. 11, 1961

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The Afro-American, May 10, 2014 - May 16, 2014

Character Education 2014 Essay Contest Winners harder, work smarter!” His father was also a role model to him considering he only had a little education, but had well paying jobs including electrician, mechanic, plumber, and carpenter, and he spoke German fluently.

This helped Stephon Jackson to do what he does today which is helping children and adults to realize what they are capable of doing and to find ways to better themselves. Also, he shares stories of his past with his kids and leads by example. He says to them, “Follow your heart and what you are capable of.”

Stephon Jackson is an inspiring person because he shows respect, responsibility and perseverance. He never gave up on himself and still continues to strive to better himself. The life lesson his story teaches is, “You know in your heart what you are capable of and you know what you can work on to do better.” Stephon Jackson might have a positive impact on people around him because he’s teaching younger children and adults to do their best and set goals for themselves to achieve in their future.

As I get older, I will be struggling to make my way in the world. My plans for the future are to have a job in the field of creating video games. I plan on attending a certain college to

help me follow my dreams of having this career. After I am done college, I want to travel to England, Florida, Canada, Australia or California. To make these plans happen, I am going to have to do well in school and get good grades and make sure I have enough money to travel by having a decent job.

Stephon Jackson inspires me to reach my own goals in life because he made me realize I can do anything I want as long as I try hard and focus on what I can do instead of the things I can’t do. Stephon Jackson might inspire other students my age because he’s giving them life stories of his childhood and the obstacles he had to overcome to make him a success today.

Also, he is teaching children to not give up on their dreams.

This encourages others to want to do better for themselves and have a successful life of their own.

can have a Student: Rachel Bender fun time with.

School: Kingsview Middle District Liaison: Dr. Gregory Bell, Montgomery Confidence is key in

County Public Schools life and all Teacher: Mrs. Sullivan you need is Principal: James D’Andrea happiness.

Professional: Barbara Palmer Barbara Sponsor: BGE Palmer is Liaison: David Milton also very helpful.

Every day I chose the magnificent Barbara Palmer as a role model she assists from the Afro-American Newspaper. I chose her because she customers is a great role model for young girls and even older women with their with her touching story of how she changed from the most challenges and helps them find a solution. She tries to shy, self-conscious girl in the school to an independent, give them the happiness that she has. She also volunteers beautiful, and confident woman. In the beginning, Barbara at local hospitals and mentors with the Big Brothers Big was a very shy girl who wasn’t very comfortable with her Sisters program. She builds great relationships with everyone body image and thought that only what was on the outside in her work and takes volunteering actions personally counted. But in the end, she realized that all she had to do to and professionally. She also helps property managers and fit in was be kind and loving so people would like her. They landlords effectively manage their properties through Bge. didn’t care how she looked. Barbara Palmer inspires me com. She also likes to just smile at people because as she because she is confident, compassionate, and helpful. personally knows, it can make a difference in someone’s day Barbara Palmer doesn’t care about her personal or life. “Making a difference is priceless, as it will be the appearance. This is especially remarkable for her because she greatest accomplishment you will ever earn,” says Barbara is a two-time breast cancer survivor herself, so she is bald.

Palmer after explaining the many ways she helps people.

She doesn’t care if people stare or if she doesn’t look the I will start being more helpful in my life because in the best. She also gets to assist, mentor and inspire other women beginning of her story she explains how it is her mission to fighting the horrid disease. She knows that she is a nice, help others because people have helped her when she was respectful woman no matter how she looks so she doesn’t struggling. I have also received help when I was in need and care if other people think differently. She doesn’t care what I too have seen people struggling so I should return the favor. other people think of her because at the end of the day, you Being helpful is such a wonderful trait to have and it makes only need yourself to be happy and she is. She thinks it is you feel so good about yourself knowing you’re making a best not to focus on your body image but to instead focus on difference. building meaningful, supportive and positive relationships. I Lastly, Barbara Palmer is compassionate. You can tell she will incorporate this into my life because I am not the most shows so much compassion because the title of her profile confident myself but after reading her truly touching story, is, “Excel in Compassion.” One of my favorite quotes in I realized that people don’t care about who has the best her article is, “Excel in compassion and help others both clothes. As long as you are confident, you can work whatever personally and professionally.” This shows that she is very you wear! Also, people don’t like you for your appearances. confident in this trait and she also knows how lovely a trait They just want a nice, respectful, friend that they know they it is to live. She also shares how great her family, friends and support system is. She strongly believes that hope and humor go a long way in undergoing breast cancer treatment in Baltimore. She likes to share this with everyone she encounters and that shows a great deal of Hey Adults and Youth! compassion. I will come up with inspirational mottos to Would you consider helping change our community share with my friends and also the strangers I encounter to values for the better? Yes! How? With a copy of my book, help and encourage them throughout their life.

The Mentoring Clinic, in the hands of all our youth, we’ll Barbara is a great example of what everyone in see their moral values change. Our youth is our change in our community. this world should be like. Have the excellent traits of compassion, confidence, and helpfulness in life to exceed The Mentoring Clinic By Arthur Burrell expectation. Based on the amazing article I read I have Now Available at Amazon Books $9.95 decided to start volunteering at local soup kitchens, try Or call/e-mail: (410)493-1395 to visit hospitals often and cheer up the people who are Arthur.burrell2@gmail.com feeling down, and try to help out anyone feeling down or insecure because I was once there, and I know how they feel so I want to help them.

When I am older I would love to be a teen therapist. I want to help others with their problems and hopefully give them the traits Barbara Palmer inspired me to have.

Student: Franklin Blair School: James Madison Middle School District Liaison: Richard Moody, Prince Georges

County Public Schools Teacher: Tanya Parris Principal: Courtney King

Student: Ameen Kareem School: Arbutus Middle District Liaison: Maatenre Ramin, Baltimore

County Public Schools Teacher: Lynn Elliott Principal: Michelle Feeney Professional: Stephon Jackson Sponsor: T. Rowe Price Liaison: Sherita Thomas

Working to Do Better

Did you know that Black History month is a celebration of African Americans such as Dr. Martin Luther King Jr., Rosa Parks, Malcolm X and how they fought for our civil rights?

Of all the articles I read, I have chosen the article called “Selfaware and Working to Do Better” in week 4’s magazine as the most inspiring.

Stephon Jackson is a vice president, director of Associate Analyst Programs who got where he is today by listening to his parents that told him words of encouragement to help him move forward in his life. His father would tell him, “Work

Confidence is Key

Congratulations to the winners!! & A special thanks to everyone who submitted an essay to this year’s contest!!

Professional: Larry Graham Sponsor: Verizon Liaison: Sandra Arnett

Expository Writing The person who inspires me is Larry Graham. I chose him because he is able to manage a wide range of responsibilities while still maintaining a sense of quality and selfintegrity. This code of conduct that he learned at an early age allowed him to earn the trust of a multimillion dollar corporation and its customers.

As the director of state government affairs at Verizon, right here in Washington, D.C., Larry

when someone needs your help, advice or direction is a feeling of great selfintegrity.

While at a very young age; Larry Graham was taught that “what you think of yourself is more important than what others think about you!” This statement is an inspiration all by itself. It should be posted on the walls of every school in America. All students, no matter what grade, should be able to see it every day, ALL day.

Graham is responsible for managing relations and communications between government officials and many Verizon employees.

He was chosen for this position because Verizon trusted him to represent the company according to a very high business code of conduct that involves integrity, commitment and satisfaction. He interacts with customers who accept his promises to hear complaints, fix their problems and resolve any issues.

Larry Graham and his commitment to quality and integrity have proven to be equally helpful outside of work as well. He plays an important role in his church and community. Those around him know that no matter what challenges he is faced with; he will always give it his all, do his best and keep his word. These are very good qualities that everyone should have; whether you are involved with family, teachers or someday; your employer. Just knowing that you can be counted on

We students now have more negative influence and inspirations than positive ones. I would be willing to bet that Mr. Graham had it the other way around.

Larry Graham is someone who can be an inspiration to us all.

He lives by a code of conduct that includes quality, commitment and integrity. During his daily routine of managing many employees at Verizon, or even while being active in his community or church, Larry Graham does his best to keep his word and “do the right thing.”

When I read this article about Mr. Graham, I was able to picture myself leading a multi-million dollar company one day.

I know for sure that I will repeat his motto again and again as I strive for excellence in high school and then on to college knowing that the simple things like having respect and self-integrity can help you just as much as having an education is half the battle.

May 10, 2014 - May 16, 2014, The Afro-American

COMMENTARY

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Standing Up For Those Who Stand Up for Us

During “Public Service Recognition Week,” observed each year during the first week in May, we come together to honor the women and men who serve our nation at all levels of government.

Almost without exception, they are proud of their service – and so should we be.

Their dedication, talent and tireless efforts have made our government among the finest in the world. They protect us and our way of life, Elijah Cummings educate us and do everything within their power to assure that each of us is treated fairly. Standing up for us every day, it is only reasonable and right that we stand up for them.

I share this observation because, all too often, public servants are not being treated respectfully and fairly by those who make it more difficult for government employees to perform their jobs – while at the same time criticizing these same public servants for delays.

In broad terms, as the Center for Budget and Policy Priorities has observed, the House Republicans’ budget proposal for Fiscal Year 2015 and beyond would cut $3.3 trillion over 10 years (2015-2024) from programs that serve people of limited means – 69 percent of their proposed nondefense budget cuts. This, in a nutshell, is the long-term vision of House Budget Committee Chairman Paul Ryan, the Republicans’ 2012 Vice-Presidential nominee who may have his sights on a presidential run in 2016.

It is a perspective with which I strongly disagree. The “Ryan Budget” unfairly blames and burdens those of us who did not create our nation’s fiscal challenges – as well as those in government who, even now, are seeking to protect us and reduce the pain of our current economy.

Consider the Social Security Administration – the federal agency that, as much as any other, directly serves us all. The women and men at Social Security who have dedicated their careers to serving us have undertaken the profound duty of assuring that we receive the retirement benefits for which we have worked all our lives. They seek to determine and help us if we have become too disabled to work, and they stand up for our survivors when tragedy strikes.

We may be less aware that the public servants at SSA also provide essential support to Medicare, SSI, our Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program, and the Department of Homeland Security. In meeting all of these responsibilities, they are facing challenges that, increasingly, are becoming more difficult as our population ages, we baby boomers retire, and our economy resists full recovery.

Placing those challenges in every-day context, the Congressional Research Service has concluded that approximately 80 million Americans will file for retirement during the next 20 years, an average of 10,000 of us every day. According to the Social Security Advisory Board, “Challenges such as shifting demographics, growing workloads, changing customer expectations combined with an aging workforce, deteriorating systems infrastructure, and chronic under funding have pushed SSA’s ability to deliver high quality service to the brink.”

Even now, the SSA is struggling. A significant reason, I would submit, is because the Congress has failed to provide the funding to assure the staffing levels and training that the analysts would consider adequate to the growing demands that SSA personnel face. While “budget hawks” decry those relative few Americans who inappropriately obtain Social Security Disability Income, far more Americans, who legitimately deserve this help, have been encountering unacceptable delays.

Under the revitalized leadership of Acting Commissioner Carolyn Colvin, the Social Security Administration is working hard to address these challenges. The federal employees at SSA are professionals. They are determined to perform their duty as well as they can.

To succeed – at SSA and throughout our government as a whole – our public servants need and deserve adequate

funding. In this, I am forced to agree with American Federation of Government Employees President David Cox Sr., when he observes that some in the Congress are failing. “Not content with the $138 billion already taken from this modestly paid [federal] workforce in the form of a three-year pay freeze …,” Mr. Cox has declared, “the 2015 edition of the Ryan Budget would maul the federal workforce with a new ferocity.”

Our Democratic response is based upon reality, as well as fairness. Federal workers did not cause our budgetary imbalance – and they should not be unfairly and irrationally burdened in fashioning the solution. This is why I have joined Virginia Congressman Gerald Connolly and 12 of our House colleagues in proposing a modest, 3 percent pay raise for federal workers in Fiscal Year 2015 [the FAIR Act, H.R. 4306].

This week, and every week, we should stand up for those who have been called to public service. We should stand up for them, even as they stand up for the rest of us every day.

U.S. Rep. Elijah Cummings represents Maryland’s 7th Congressional District in the United States House of Representatives.

Indifference of State Elected Officials to HBI Decision Shifts Attention to Next Election The 2014 legislative session represents a missed opportunity for Maryland officials to address the constitutional violations cited

by Federal District Court Judge Catherine C. Blake in an October 2013 ruling on the Historically Black Institutions Coalition case.

The case was not among Gov. Martin O’Malley’s legislative priorities and discussion in the legislature was limited to the debate surrounding the defeat of separate bills A. Dwight Pettie advanced by Baltimore Sen. Joan Carter-Conway and Prince George’s Del. Aisha Braveboy.

Sen. Conway’s bill would have provided a mechanism for avoiding future instances of the illegal practice of unnecessary program duplication. Legislation proposed by Del. Braveboy would have provided funding support for making the HBIs unique and competitive with other public institutions in the state.

It now appears that the constitutional violations found by Judge Blake are unlikely to be resolved before Gov. O’Malley leaves office in January 2014. That is certain to be a millstone around the governor’s neck as he runs for higher elected office.

Any future effort to address the court’s finding now shifts to the various candidates for governor and attorney general. None of these candidates has, to date, indicated how he or she would respond to the HBI Coalition court ruling.

The three democratic candidates in particular, are currently serving as elected officials and bear some responsibility for the state’s present attitude toward the Blake ruling for the HBIs. Candidate Anthony Brown currently serves as Mr. O’Malley’s lieutenant governor. It would be interesting to know if he agrees with the findings of the court and intends to mediate a meaningful settlement or will he seek to maintain the state’s discriminatory higher education system by appealing the case?

Will he commit to eliminating historic academic program duplication by transferring programs back to the HBIs and creating other new unique and high demand programs at HBIs as suggested by the court? Equally significant, would Mr. Brown revise state policies and practices to preclude program duplication?

The same questions must be asked of the other candidates.

Attorney General Douglas Gansler probably has expressed more concern about the plight of HBIs than any other gubernatorial candidate. During forums on the Mark Stiener radio show, before audiences visiting Annapolis, and most recently, at a Montgomery College appearance with other candidates, Gansler pledged repeatedly to provide increased funding to the Historically Black Institutions. He also released a statement at the outset of the HBI Coalition case saying that as attorney general he is obligated by state law to represent Maryland in litigation, regardless of whether or not he

Fighting for Their Families “I am fighting for my father. He is undocumented.

I am fighting for all of the children who don’t have their mothers and fathers and brothers and sisters.”

That was the speech I heard last Wednesday from Yahir Servin, an 11-year-old who participated in a civil disobedience on Capitol Hill with the Fair Immigration Reform Movement. Yahir was one of seven kids between the ages of 11 and 17 who joined 20 adults in a Benjamin T. jail cell all afternoon to draw Jealous attention to the need for immigration reform. As rain poured down, the protestors sat resolutely in the middle of the street outside Capitol Hill while police handcuffed them one by one.

A few blocks away, the U.S. House of Representatives was in session but immigration reform was not on the agenda. Even though every day of inaction means that more immigrants are evicted and more families broken up, the House has still not taken up the comprehensive reform bill that passed in

the Senate, or offered an alternative of its own. Meanwhile, although President Obama has been an outspoken supporter of reform, deportations have risen significantly over the course of his presidency.

Immediately before the protest, a 16-year-old named Talia Gonzalez told a heartbreaking story about her family’s situation. Her father had returned to Mexico in order to get the necessary documentation to become a citizen. The U.S. officials at the Mexican border told him that he could not return. For the past four years, Talia and her father have only seen each other a handful of times, a mountain of paperwork separating father and daughter.

She is not alone. According to a 2012 report by the Center for American Progress, one out of three U.S. citizen children of immigrants live in mixed-status families, and tens of thousands of parents are deported each year. This has a devastating impact on families, forcing children into foster care or leaving single mothers who struggle to make ends meet.

I stood with the protestors on Wednesday because I believe that immigrants of all colors deserve to be treated with dignity and fairness. This has been a priority for the civil rights community for a very long time. It was a priority for Frederick Douglass when he opposed the Chinese Exclusion Act in the years after the Civil War, arguing in effect that he did not intend to watch the government brutally exploit workers in the Southwest just after ending slavery in the Southeast. It was a priority for civil rights leaders in the 1960’s, who, immediately

personally agrees with the state’s position.

U.S. Attorney General Eric Holder has since issued an advisory indicating that attorneys general are not obligated to defend laws they believe to be discriminatory. The attorneys general of seven states relied on that advice in declaring that they will not defend their states’ ban on same sex marriage in pending and future litigation. To do otherwise, these chief legal counsels say, would amount to their defending discrimination.

If the mediation process now underway is not successful in negotiating remedies for dismantling Maryland’s segregated system of higher education, Holder’s advisory poses a special test for both Gansler as the sitting legal counsel for the State and those individuals who wish to succeed him. Would he or she follow the example of attorneys general in Kentucky, Virginia, California, Nevada, Oregon, Pennsylvania, and Illinois in refusing to represent their states in cases that would result in discrimination against certain individuals or groups of individuals? Conversely, would he or she defend Maryland’s current system of higher education notwithstanding its discriminatory effects?

The primary election is on June 24. Voters must insist that candidates for governor and attorney general immediately declare their intent to bring the HBI Coalition case to a close or to make clear their intention to defend the existing system of segregation and discrimination.

Attorney A. Dwight Pettit is a former member of the Board of Regents, Universit

after passing the Voting Rights Act and Civil Rights Act, pushed through what historian Taylor Branch has called the “third pillar” of the civil rights revolution – ending the racist Europe-only preference for immigrants in this country.

As Douglass, Ella Baker and Roy Wilkins understood, our communities are strongest when we are willing to stand up for our neighbors’ families with the same passion that we fight for our own.

By going to jail for their cause, Yahir, Talia and the other young protestors took a page from the Birmingham Children’s Crusade of 1963. We all know the iconic images of children locking hands, marching in step and singing “We Shall Overcome” as Bull Connor’s deputies blasted them with fire hoses. Fewer may remember that some of the children’s parents had second thoughts about letting their little ones out in the charged Birmingham streets.

In a speech that week, Dr. King was able to put the situation in perspective, in words that called to mind the actions of Yahir, Talia and the other young activists half a century later.

“Don’t worry about your children,” he said, “They are going to be alright. Don’t hold them back if they want to go to jail, for they are not only doing a job for themselves, but for all of America and for all of mankind.”

Jealous is the former president and CEO of the NAACP. He is currently a Partner at Kapor Capital and a senior fellow at the Center for American Progress.

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The Afro-American, May 10, 2014 - May 16, 2014

HEALTH

Faces of Kidney Disease Still Disproportionately African American

By Alexis Taylor Special to the AFRO Vanessa Graham couldn’t believe the news when doctors told her the kidneys in her body were failing. A dialysis technician for 20 years, she wondered how she never recognized her symptoms collectively as the disease she had helped patients fight for so long.

“I was having constant, uncontrollable migraines from the high blood pressure- that sent me to the emergency room,” Graham told the

AFRO. “After numerous tests they told me that my kidneys were failing. I was devastated.

Just the fact that I was actually a dialysis technician that ignored all of these small symptoms together … I was in shock.”

She was in treatment for renal failure less than 18 months when she got the call. A 50-year-old man named Frank had been in a motorcycle accident. His death would give Graham a new life. The next day, May 3, 2012, she was on an operating table inside Washington

D.C.’s Washington Hospital Center.

Though most recipients aren’t given the names of their donors, a sibling overheard nurses talking about the transplant donor while speaking about Graham’s case. Now retired, Graham said it’s important to take note of any signs of kidney disease – from sleep apnea to headaches, uncontrollable blood pressure to not feeling well in general.

“Kidney disease is preventable, but you are at risk if you have high

“Our three pillars are awareness, prevention, and treatment. If you take the precautions – get your high blood pressure and diabetes checked and under control, then it is preventable.”

– Clare Elliott

Clyde Simms shakes hands with participants of the Kidney Walk, after speaking about the kidney disease that forced him to retire from professional soccer. He played two years with the New England Revolution and seven years with D.C. United.

blood pressure, diabetes, hypertension, or a family history of obesity,” said Clare Elliott, development coordinator with the National Kidney Foundation.

Elliot said the more than $300,000 raised from the 2014 Kidney Walk will help the Foundation afford

Photos by Alexis Taylor

Kidney Walk participants entered t-shirt contests to see if they could come up with the most creative kidney-themed design. more of the $200 emergency grants that provide financial assistance to patients by offsetting everything from groceries to electricity bills.

The money raised will also support more free screenings to help detect kidney failure.

“Our three pillars are awareness, prevention, and treatment. If you take the precautions – get your high blood pressure and diabetes checked and under control, then it is preventable.”

According to the Center for Disease Control and Prevention, the kidneys are essential in filtering waste from the blood. Once the kidneys no longer function, the body suffers from kidney failure, also called renal failure. Once the kidneys have gone into failure a machine is needed to regularly filter the blood, this process is called dialysis. Estimates from the CDC put at least 20 million Americans of all ethnicities dealing with some grade of chronic kidney disease, with the chance of developing the condition spiking after the age of 50.

According to the CDC, roughly one out of every three adults with diabetes goes into renal failure. That number is one out of every

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five for adults with high blood pressure.

Information from the National Kidney Disease Education Program states that while only 13 percent of

upon learning that his daughter, Tisha, was in need of a kidney. “I wanted to do it and I wasn’t afraid or apprehensive at all – God destined me to do this for

Tisha Guthrie stands with her father, Marvin Guthrie, who gave one of his kidneys and put an end to her dialysis treatments after 10 months. the United States is African American, 32 percent of all patients with kidney failure are from the Black community due to diabetes and hypertension.

According to the National Institutes of Health, a gene variation called APOL1 is found in 13-15 percent of African Americans. When compared to Caucasians with chronic kidney disease (CKD) or other African Americans without the variant, this type of gene doubles the chances of an African-American patient’s kidney disease turning into kidney failure.

Though hope for a new kidney could mean years of waiting on a list, due to other factors such as blood type, for some help is as close as a mother, a brother, a family member sharing the same genetic make-up, or a friend willing to give up a matching kidney.

“The first thing I did was see if I was a compatible donor,” said Marvin Guthrie,

her.”

Guthrie’s struggle began in 2005 when she noticed that her entire body was swelling with fluid. She was also experiencing extreme fatigue – something the group fitness coach wasn’t used to.

She ended up on dialysis for 10 months, receiving fourhour treatments three times a week. “She went through so much trying to maintain without a transplant, each day she was getting weaker and weaker,” Guthrie said, shortly before his daughter led hundreds of 2014 Kidney Walk participants in a Zumbastyle warm up on May 4 at Camden Yards.

Guthrie told the AFRO that her body immediately responded to the surgery, and though she still has her ups and downs, overall she feels great. Aside from a few weeks of soreness through the recuperation stage, Guthrie’s father likened the process of donating a kidney to “little more than a sprained ankle.”

May 10, 2014 - May 16, 2014, The Afro-American

J. Howard Henderson and George H. Lambert Jr., presidents and CEOs of Baltimore and D.C. Urban Leagues, respectively

Tony Randall Sr., Pam Sanders, Skip Sanders, Sandra Arnette and Tabb Bishop

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Adrian Harpool, LaRian Finney and Darrell McMillian

En Vogue Enjoying the show

Wayne Wiggins, Dina Fleming, Darlene Gregory, Tyree Gregory, Francine Adams and Keith Adams

M. Umphrey, Ericka Alston and Jamal Gardener

A. Hayes, Zack Daniels and Larry Stuart Photos by J.D. Howard

BCAC Deltas Barbara Crawley, Janice Bowie and Robin Hager

Question and answer session was provided for parents and teens.

Honorees Ernst Valery, Jim Shea, Stanley Bunjo Miles, Bishop Douglas Miles. Seated are Sherria The Greater Baltimore Urban League held Lovelace, J. Howard Henderson its 57th Annual Whitney M. Young Jr. Gala, and Calvin Butler

Tyrone Taborn, Charles Robinson, the Rev. Jerome Stephens and J. Howard Henderson

Darrell McMillan, Malik Rachman, Kendra Banks, Doni Glover and RenoThompson

age to join them for information sessions on “Equipping Your Toolbox for Manhood. One of the Sorority’s national programs is EMBODI (Empowering Males to Build Opportunities for Developing Independence), which works with and supports other organizations in addressing issues affecting AfricanAmerican males.

Danyell Winkey Smith and Tony Baysmore Photos by Dr. A. Lois De Laine

City Councilman Carl Stokes, Michele Noel, Barbara Blount Armstrong, Karan Carrol and Arthur Allen

Marker Poller, Russell Turner, Vanessa Brown, Pamela Darien, Jumoke Boston, Nura Saleema-Bey, Sandra Conner and Ronald Miles. Dr. Charles Simmons and Subhanallah Ali are seated.

Dr. Robert Gregory, Linda Gregory, Del. Shirley Nathan Pulliam, Jamie Lynn Meier and Basil S. Morgan

Jerilynn Reid, president; Kai Jackson, Latasha Peele

Baltimore County Alumnae Chapter members of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority invited parents and their children from the third grade to college

Byyron Pugh, director of the Dating Matters Initiative of the city health department

April 25, at the Marriott Waterfront Hotel in Baltimore. Award recipients included: S. Bunjo Butler, Bert Hash, president and CEO of Municipal Employees Credit Union; Bishop Douglas I. Miles, Koinonia Baptist Church and Jim Shea, chair of Venable LLP. Sherria Lovelace received the Young Professionals Rising Star Award.

The League continues to serve as a beacon of hope and works with the invaluable assistance of its auxiliaries – the Urban League Guild and the Young Professionals, according to J. Howard Henderson, president and CEO of the Baltimore affiliate that just completed 90 years of service.

The Community College of Baltimore County (CCBC) on the Owings Mills campus on April 26 was a busy scene with parents’ workshops, Character

Wendy Faulkner, Yvonne Sims and Zena Penn

Character building starts at an early age with several 10-year-olds present at the workshop.

Baltimore County Deltas Anissa Brown, Jerilynn Reid, president and Melanie Harris

Building for 3rd-5th and 6th-8th grades, and Defining Healthy Peer Interactions for high school to college age.

Guest speakers and facilitators included Kai Jackson, national correspondent, Sinclair Broadcast Group; Aaron “Herkules” Graves, WPGC 95.5FM; Lt. Orlando Lilly, Baltimore County Police Department; Byron Pugh, director of the Dating Matters Initiative of Baltimore City Health Department, 100 Men of Maryland and Black Professional Men.

Damien Gins, facilitator for parents’ workshop

Deltas Shanae Fant, Debbie Risper

Fourth through eighth graders listen to facilitator Byron Pugh

Parents discuss mentoring, coaching and managing children

Volunteers Tanya Gilmore, Jazzlyn Briscoe and Vanessa Lucas

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The Afro-American, May 10, 2014 - May 16, 2014

COMMUNITY CONNECTION UMES researchers lauded for their work on new epilepsy medication

A University of Maryland Eastern Shore professor and one of her former graduate assistants are recipients of an “Invention of the Year Award” the state’s flagship university in College Park bestows annually to researchers doing cutting-edge work.

Dr. Patrice Jackson-Ayotunde, an assistant professor of pharmaceutical sciences at UMES, and Dr. Tawes Harper, a pharmacy program graduate, were recognized for their pioneering work in 2013 on developing medication to treat epilepsy.

Epilepsy is a chronic neurological disorder characterized by recurring seizures, which can be debilitating. Some patients experience multiple episodes daily.

Research by Jackson-Ayotunde and Harper focused on designing and producing novel anticonvulsant analogs as potential agents for treatment of therapy-resistant, partial epilepsy. They identified at least a dozen compounds that show antiepileptic properties in multiple animal models with limited-to-no-observed neurotoxicity.

“This (peer) recognition means a lot,” Jackson-Ayotunde said. “I’m passionate about the research I do as a medicinal chemist, and working with students.”

Her research already has qualified for a provisional patent, but she noted that safely moving a preliminary medicinal finding from the lab to the patient can take 15-to-20 years.

“With the many hours spent in the lab – working on potential agents – it’s all about the patients suffering epilepsy. The goal is to discover new effective and safe therapeutics that will give epileptic patients a better quality of life,” she said.

The College Park campus’ Office of Technology Commercialization (OTC) sponsors the annual Invention of the Year Awards program, now in its 27th year. In 2013, it received 154 nominations and from that group, 11 were chosen as finalists based on their impact on science, society and market potential.

‘Words On Wheels’ Celebrates Ideas That Move Us For the 15th year, the Maryland Transit Administration held its poetry event, “Words on Wheels,” highlighting the poetry of 12 Baltimore City Public School students, embellished with artwork created by Maryland Institute College of Art (MICA) students. Artwork of winners, announced at the April 29 culmination, with their photos, was featured as posters and will be displayed on local MTA buses.

National Coalition of 100 Black Women Presents Gourmet Chefs of Distinction The public is invited to sample the tastiest food and drink Maryland has to offer, prepared by some of the best men who cook, 2 to 4 p.m., May 18 at Martin’s West in Woodlawn.

The event is sponsored by the Baltimore Metropolitan

Chapter of the National Coalition of 100 Black Women.

Over 100 friendly chefs are looking forward to sharing samples of their favorite creations including meat and seafood dishes; a wide variety of pastas, home baked desserts and exotic drinks. Local celebrities will also be serving their specialities. Some may even share their secret recipes.

In addition, there will be vendors selling unique fashion items, lots of free door prizes and a 50/50 raffle drawing. For tickets, contact a member of the Coalition or call 443-668-6168.

Interfaith Prayer Breakfast Marked National Day of Prayer

As the entire country observed the 2014 National Day of Prayer, faith leaders from across Maryland congregated in Annapolis to speak as “One Voice United in Prayer.” At an Interfaith Prayer Breakfast hosted by the Governor’s Office of Community Initiatives (GOCI), clergy offered prayers for Five Centers of Influence in society, including family, education, government, places of worship and the United States of America.

The multi-denominational collective included Lt. Governor Anthony Brown talked with Catholic, Jewish, Hindu, Christian and Muslim Imam Faizul R. Khan at the Interfaith Prayer leaders.

Breakfast celebrating the 63rd annual The National Day of Prayer is annually National Day of Prayer. observed on the first Thursday of May, inviting people of all faiths to pray for the nation. It was created in 1952 by a joint resolution of the U. S. Congress and signed into law by President Harry S. Truman.

Lt. Governor Anthony Brown offered remarks during the breakfast program that also highlighted May as National Foster Care Month.

“All of us, no matter our faith or creed, are dedicated to building strong, safe communities for all of Maryland’s families, and lifting up our neighborhoods through service” said Lt. Governor Anthony Brown. “Today, on the National Day of Prayer, we come together united in our common purpose: supporting Maryland’s families and working each and every day to build a brighter future for all of our children.”

The GOCI Interfaith Prayer Breakfast was co-sponsored by Seraaj Family Homes and Volunteers of America and coordinated by the Governor’s Office of Faith Outreach, which is housed within GOCI.

National Kidney Foundation to Hold ‘Rappel for Kidney Health’

The National Kidney Foundation of Maryland (NKF-MD) will hold its fifth annual Rappel for Kidney Health signature event, June 6 and 7, at the Baltimore Marriott Waterfront (700 Aliceanna St.).

Rappel for Kidney Health invites people of all ages to scale down the 32-story building, from the roof to the fifth floor pool deck.

Rappel participants include people with connections to kidney disease, including transplant donors and recipients, as well as adventure seekers, media personalities and other local celebrities.

NKF-MD is providing personal fundraising pages to assist rappel participants in raising the required $1,000 minimum to participate in the event. Once the money is raised, participants will receive an event t-shirt, participate in a training session on event day and a commemorative photo of them in action.

Face painting, a DJ and additional entertainment will be available for family and friends in the landing zone where they can cheer on their loved ones as they rappel and greet them when they reach the pool deck.

For the third year in a row, participants can form teams and be part of a fundraising competition, especially between companies in the same industry. The top five teams, as well as the top five individuals who raise the most money, will be featured on the Rappel for Kidney Health website home page and honored at a thank you reception on June 6.

To register for Rappel for Kidney Health, support a participant, receive information about corporate sponsorship or see photos of last year’s event, visit www.kidneymd.org or call 410.494.8545.

Baltimore Musician Makes Magic with Music Mentees

In Gov. Martin O’Malley’s April 27 letter to Piano for Youth, he proclaimed that the “[Piano for Youth] organization is dedicated to creating a friendly and pleasant atmosphere for music education.” The Maryland based organization Piano for Youth (PFY) celebrated its 10th anniversary at Johns Hopkins University’s Parsons Auditorium at the Applied Physics Laboratory Campus in

Laurel, Md. headlined by its performing sector of young pianists aged 9-14 called the Children’s Piano Choir.

The group played a diverse array of compositions, among them, the classic jazz tune Linus & Lucy from the Charlie Brown cartoon, Beethoven’s Fur Elise and a Latin jazz original composition Hola Hola, from the organization’s director and co-founder Diana Wharton-Sennaar.

Under Sennaar’s direction the organization has offered private piano lessons to over 200 students throughout Maryland in over 20 communities. A Baltimore native and former music teacher of the Howard County Public School System, Sennaar is a graduate of Howard University and a founding member of Sweet Honey in the Rock. She is also the composer for Ntozake Shange’s Broadway hit For Colored Girls…a composer for PBS Children’s Television show Getting to Know Me, a Guggenheim Fellow and a recipient of the National Endowment for the Arts in Jazz Composition, to name a few of her credits.

With a mission of providing opportunities for youth leadership, community service and affordable and accessible quality music education, Sennaar travels to the homes of her students and provides scholarships to many through Piano for Youth’s Adopt-A-Piano-Scholar initiative. Through the program, Ms. Sennaar matches prospective low-income piano students to sponsoring organizations and individuals to cover expenses for piano lessons through PFY. This work is dear to her heart and is her way of giving back. In a Certificate of Recognition, Mayor Stephanie Rawlings-Blake said, “We would like to recognize your accomplishments and unwavering devotion to music and our City’s youth.”

The Children’s Piano Choir has its next performance, May 10, at the Jersey City Public Library in New Jersey. For booking inquiries for the Children’s Piano Choir, private piano lessons with a discount, or to Adopt-A-Piano-Scholar, contact Piano for Youth at pianoforyouth. weebly.com, pianoforyouth123@gmail.com, 410-900-2055.

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May 10, 2014 - May 16, 2014, The Afro-American

ARTS & CULTURE Gaga over Gugu!

Gugu Mbatha-Raw stars in the new film Belle.

The “Belle” Interview

By Kam Williams Special to the AFRO Born in Oxford, England on June 30, 1983, Gugu Mbatha-Raw trained at the Royal Academy of Dramatic Art in London. Her first professional role was as Celia in an open air production of Shakespeare’s As You Like

It. Gugu subsequently landed roles at Manchester’s Royal Exchange Theatre where she performed the title roles of Cleopatra in Antony and Cleopatra and Juliet in Romeo and Juliet, the latter opposite Andrew “Spider-Man” Garfield.

Her television credits include “MI5,” “Dr. Who,” “Spooks,” “Marple: Ordeal by Innocence,” “Bonekickers” and “Fallout.” In 2008, she was selected as a ‘Star of Tomorrow’ by the showbiz industry magazine Screen International. A couple of years later, Gugu starred as Samantha Bloom in the NBC-TV series, “Undercovers,” for which she was nominated for an NAACP award for in the Best Actress in a Television Series category.

On the big screen, she found her first major feature film work in Larry Crowne, directed

by Tom Hanks and co-starring Julia Roberts, followed by Odd Thomas alongside Willem Dafoe. She also recently finished filming Jupiter Ascending with Channing Tatum and Mila Kunis.

Here, Gugu, who divides her time between L.A. and London, talks about playing the title character in Belle, a biopic about Dido Elizabeth Belle (1761-1804), the orphaned offspring of an African slave and a British

Much Love and Thank You to Mom and Grandma on Mother’s Day

kind, and passionate women in my life. My mother and grandmother taught me about courage and perseverance

and love. Follow your dreams whatever they are. Keep going. Keep positive. Keep loving. Encourage others.

Happy Mother’s Day to my beautiful Bernice and Patsy. And pass me another piece of Patsy’s Peach Pie. God bless you both.

Taraji P. Henson is an Emmy and Academy Award nominated actor.

Her commentaries can be found on the Speak Easy Speakers blog athttp://www.

SpeakEasySpeakers.com.

Kam Williams: Hi Gugu, thanks for the interview. I’m honored to have this opportunity.

Gugu Mbatha-Raw: Thank you, Kam. KW: I have a lot of questions for you for you from fans. Children’s book author Irene Smalls asks: What interested you in the film and how did you feel about the idea of playing Dido Belle?

GMR: There were so many wonderful things that drew me to this project. First and foremost, the historical elements, the fact that this character really existed and that the script was inspired by a real painting. That was fascinating to me because, as a biracial girl growing up in England, I’d never really seen any historical characters who looked like me depicted on film before that weren’t being brutalized or playing slaves. It was refreshing to know that there had been a biracial girl in the aristocracy.

GMR: Absolutely! Because I had never played a real person before and since this was an incredibly refreshing tale to me.

Even though there wasn’t much evidence about Dido, factually, I felt this was a terrific opportunity to shed light on a period of history that has somewhat been overlooked and certainly has never been seen from this perspective before. A woman of color… in the lead… of a period drama… [Laughs] And she’s not a slave… she’s not being brutalized… She’s being brought up as an heiress in a genteel society, at least one that’s seemingly genteel on the surface. To me, that that was just such an inspiring new perspective.

KW: What message do you think people will take away from Belle?

GMR: I really hope people will be inspired by the history of it, and the fact that it’s a true story. The message, for me, at its core, really, is “Be who you are!” Don’t worry about society’s conditioning and the labels that are put on you by external forces. Hold onto your true self. The journey that Dido goes on is about learning to be comfortable in her own skin. I think that’s an inspiring message that we always need to be reminded of in today’s image-obsessed world.

KW: Larry Greenberg asks: What kind of direction did Amma Asante give you about Dido Belle’s relationship with Lady Elizabeth Murray?

GMR: This is something that Amma was very passionate about. Even though they were only cousins biologically, they were nevertheless very much a sisterhood. I know that Amma herself has a sister she’s very close to, and the intensity of sisterhood was something she very much wanted to explore in the film, not only because the starting point was the painting where they are depicted in such an intimate way with a feeling of affection, but also because of a desire to create a Jane Austen “Sense and Sensibility” dynamic in exploring the depth of that bond. Consider the scene where they have a fierce argument and are saying the most horrible things to each other. I think you can only really explore in that fashion with intimate family.

KW: Editor/Legist Patricia Turnier asks: Did you feel any pressure to do justice to Belle?

KW: Thanks again for the time, Gugu, and best of luck with Belle.

GMR: Thank you very much, Kam. Bye!

“

THE COMEDY OF THE SUMMER!

”

AIN’T IT COOL NEWS

“The

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GAMERFITNATION

inVite you anD a Guest to an aDVance screeninG of

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HITFIX

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Laugh Out Loud!”

BLACKFILM

© 2014 Disney Enterprises, Inc

By Taraji P. Henson

I enjoy the stories of Hollywood starlets being discovered in a malt shop and skyrocketing to fame overnight as much as the next person. I enjoy them the same way I enjoy the fairy tales of dragons and unicorns I used to tell my son when he was a little boy. But in reality, most overnight sensations are 10, 15 and even more years in the making. Success doesn’t take luck at a malt shop, it takes the courage to work at your craft for years. It takes perseverance.

This Mother’s Day, as I celebrate my mother Bernice and my grandmother Patsy, I am thankful for the lessons of perseverance that they taught me. They teach in the very best way, by example!

Because I listened to my mother and grandmother and watched how they lived, I was not afraid to pursue my dreams. I have fans from so many different moments in my career. It’s funny to hear critics talk about a particular film as the film that gave me my “start” in the business.

A lot of young fans were introduced to my work in 2010 with the Karate Kid. Some people will swear that I didn’t start working until The Curious Case of Benjamin Button in 2008 or Baby Boy in 2001.

Without a doubt, these films are milestones in my career. But those films only happened because of the countless hours of hard work and taking one opportunity that lead to another and another. As a theatre arts major at Howard University, in my hometown Washington, D.C., I was laying that groundwork for the Curious Case Benjamin Button Oscar nomination. The inspiration for my character in that film comes from my mother and grandmother. They both taught me about unconditional love and that is the spirit of Queenie.

There are a lot of lessons I learned from the strong,

ship captain who was raised in England by her father’s rich relations.

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UNIVERSAL PICTURES PRESENTS A POINT GREY/GOOD UNIVERSE PRODUCTION A MUSIC NICHOLAS STOLLER FILM SETHCOSTUME ROGEN ZAC EFRON “NEIGHBORS” ROSEPRODUCTION BYRNE CHRISTOPHER MIDIRECTOR NTZ-PLASSE DAVE FRANCOEXECUTIVEBY MICHAEL ANDREWS DESIGNER LEESA EVANS OF EDITOR ZENE BAKER DESIGNER JULI E BERGHOFF PHOTOGRAPHY BRANDON TROST PRODUCERS NATHAN KAHANE JOE DRAKE BRI A N BELL ANDREWJAY COHEN BRENDAN O’BRIEN PRODUCEDBY SETH ROGEN EVANDIRECTEDGOLDBERG JAMES WEAVER WRITTENBY ANDREWJAY COHEN & BRENDAN O’BRIEN A UNIVERSAL RELEASE

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STARTS FRIDAY, MAY 9

CHECK LOCAL LISTINGS FOR THEATERS AND SHOWTIMES

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The Afro-American, May 10, 2014 - May 16, 2014

SPORTS

AFRO Sports Desk Faceoff

Are Durant’s Days in Oklahoma Dwindling?

By Perry Green and Stephen D. Riley AFRO Sports Desk It took some time, but the Oklahoma City Thunder finally advanced over the Memphis Grizzlies in a Game 7 grudge match to cap a turbulent first-round playoff matchup.

Despite winning the series, Thunder star swingman Kevin Durant was often picked on and poked at by the Oklahoma media. Memorably, he was dubbed “Mr. Unreliable” on the front page of The Oklahoman newspaper after missing a free throw in Game 5 that gave Memphis a temporary series lead at 3-2. But Durant fired back, averaging 34 points over the next two contests to help his team secure the series win.

But the fracas that was caused over the early week article stirred up enough controversy for several opinions to come forth. Durant’s current contract ends in the summer of 2016 and the harsh criticism has sparked the question: should Durant pull a “LeBron” when his contract is up and leave town for greener pastures? Perry Green and Stephen D. Riley of the AFRO Sports Desk debate the question.

Green: The possibility of an OKC championship is and will continue to be a strong one as long as Westbrook and Durant are in town. Backed by Serge Ibaka and Reggie Jackson, the Thunder’s talent level exceeds just the Durant and Westbrook combo. The fans are rabid, the team is young and other traditional Western powers like San Antonio and Dallas are fading due to the age of their players. Leaving Oklahoma City would only put Durant in a situation where he’s trying to reassemble what he already has in place.

Sure, fans and local media will get restless if titles aren’t

being won—but that’s any town. People can be too critical at times. Durant and Westbrook, even for all their talent and playoff exposure, are both just 25 years old. Their title will come soon enough; it just hasn’t come yet. It just wouldn’t make sense for Durant to jeopardize what is as close to a sure thing as you’ll get right now in the NBA. Riley: That theory only makes sense if everyone stays healthy, and just how many injuries has Westbrook suffered in just the last two years alone? His injury history, combined with a middling market in small-town Oklahoma City might be just enough for Durant to feel compelled to explore his options.

Plastering a “Mr. Unreliable” headline on the city paper was the ultimate slap in the face, regardless of the ensuing apology.

Durant’s done more than enough for the team and the city of Oklahoma and harsh criticism should be scarce.

And when you add that Westbrook’s knees have really been the only “unreliable” thing for the Thunder over the past few years, how confident should any of us be that Westbrook will remain the athletic marvel he’s been? For a player whose agility dictates his performance heavily, Durant should definitely be factoring in his running mate’s health as a primary decision.

Another Westbrook knee injury/surgery would be devastating for all parties involved. The grass could be greener in a city like, I don’t know, Washington, D.C., maybe? The Wizards backcourt is already one of the league’s best and the city loves Durant like the native son that he is.

Green: The amount of distractions for Durant if he were to sign in D.C. would be unreal. Sometimes going home isn’t always the best choice. Besides, a healthy Westbrook is a better player than Wall. I think Wall may be a more consistent point

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guard and playmaker than Westbrook, but talent for talent, Westbrook is better. Not to mention, Wall hasn’t exactly been the model for durability—he’s missed his fair share of games due to injuries as well.

I agree that, should Durant exercise his 2016 option, D.C. would and should definitely be a frontrunner. But I’m not so sure that Oklahoma wouldn’t have returned to the Finals by then, making the decision to even exercise his free agency clause a tough decision. Another deep playoff run and obviously a title would help the Thunder’s case in retaining him. I’ve always gotten the sense that Durant is a loyal guy.

Riley: The NBA has always been hard-pressed to keep major stars in minor towns. The city of Norman, Oklahoma is actually quite large but the media market is the exact opposite.

I do agree that Durant comes off as a loyal guy, but how much loyalty is embedded in the heart of the franchise? We’re talking about the same ball club that broke hearts after it moved from Seattle and a city where even the world’s best basketball player can get criticized over a missed free throw attempt. Durant doesn’t really owe the Thunder anything. He’s played with passion and heart since his arrival while watching some of his close friends and NBA’s best ball players leave through dramafilled trades and free agency. The Thunder surprised everyone by moving former stars James Harden and Jeff Green without even giving Durant a heads-up. All things considered, it’s the Thunder and now Oklahoma City that haven’t been reliable to Durant, while he’s done nothing but mature his game into MVP status. Regardless of whether or not Oklahoma City wins a title before his contract ends, I think it’s safe to say that Durant is a goner in 2016.

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REMEMBER, MOTHER’S DAY IS MAY 11

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VALID 5/9 ’TIL 1PM OR 5/10/14 ’TIL 1PM. LIMIT ONE PER CUSTOMER. ALSO EXCLUDES: Everyday Values (EDV), Doorbusters, Deals of the Day, furniture, mattresses, floor coverings, rugs, electrics/electronics, cosmetics/fragrances, athletic shoes for him, her & kids, Dallas Cowboys merchandise, gift cards, jewelry trunk shows, New Era, Nike on Field, previous purchases, special orders, selected licensed depts., special purchases, services, macys.com. Cannot be combined with any savings pass/coupon, extra discount or credit offer, except opening a new Macy’s account. Dollar savings are allocated as discounts off each eligible item, as shown on receipt. When you return an item, you forfeit the savings allocated to that item. This coupon has no cash value & may not be redeemed for cash, used to purchase gift cards or applied as payment or credit to your account. Purchase must be $50 or more, exclusive of tax and delivery fees.

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OPEN A MACY’S ACCOUNT FOR EXTRA 20% SAVINGS THE FIRST 2 DAYS, UP TO $100, WITH MORE REWARDS TO COME. Macy’s credit card is available subject to credit approval; new account savings valid the day your account is opened and the next day; excludes services, selected licensed departments, gift cards, restaurants, gourmet food & wine. The new account savings are limited to a total of $100; application must qualify for immediate approval to receive extra savings; employees not eligible.

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TYPESET: Wed May 07 14:04:43 EDT 2014 LEGAL NOTICES City of Baltimore Department of Finance Bureau of Purchases Sealed proposals addressed to the Board of Estimates of Baltimore, will be received until, but not later than 11:00 a.m. local time on the following date(s) for the stated requirements: MAY 14, 2014 *MONADNOCK FLEX CUFFS B50003446 THE ENTIRE SOLICITATION DOCUMENT CAN BE VIEWED AND DOWN LOADED BY VISITING THE CITYS WEB SITE: www.baltimorecitibuy.org

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TYPESET: Wed May 07 14:05:19 EDT 2014

LEGAL NOTICES

CITY OF BALTIMORE DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION NOTICE OF LETTING Sealed Bids or Proposals, in duplicate addressed to the Board of Estimates of the Mayor and City Council of Baltimore and marked for F.T.A.P No. MD-04-0021-00; BALTIMORE CITY NO. TR11320R; GREYHOUND INTERMODAL TERMINAL, 2110 HAINES STREET, BALTIMORE, MARYLAND will be received at the Office of the Comptroller, Room 204 City Hall, Baltimore, Maryland until 11:00 A.M JUNE 4, 2014.

The Prequalification Category required for bidding on this project is (E13001 Building Construction Three Stories and Under). Positively no bids will be received after 11:00 A.M. Bids will be publicly opened by the Board of Estimates in Room 215, City Hall at Noon. The Contract Documents may be examined, without charge, at the Department of Public Works Service Center located on the first floor of the Abel Wolman Municipal Building, 200 N. Holliday Street, Baltimore, Maryland 21202 as of MAY 2, 2014 and copies may be purchased for a non-refundable cost of $200.00.

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 (A02601 Bituminous Paving & D02620 Curbs, Gutters & Sidewalk). Cost Qualification Range for this work shall be $5,000,000.00 to $10,000,000.00.

A ”Pre-Bidding Information” session will be conducted at 10:00 AM. on MAY 15, 2014, at 417 E. Fayette Street, Charles L. Benton, Jr. Building, Richard L. Baker Conference Room, Baltimore, MD 21202. YOU MUST ATTEND THE MANDATORY PRE-BID MEETING IN ORDER TO BID ON THIS CONTRACT AS A PREQUALIFIED CONTRACTOR. Principal Items of work for this project are: Mobilization LS; Building Construction LS; and Fuel Storage Tank and Dispensing Units LS. The DBE goal is 25% APPROVED: Bernice H. Taylor, Clerk Board of Estimates

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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.

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May 10, 2014 - May 16, 2014 The Afro-American

B6 The Afro-American, May 10, 2014 - May 16, 2014 LEGAL NOTICES

TYPESET: Wed May 07 14:00:17 EDT 2014

LEGAL NOTICES

CITY OF BALTIMORE DEPARTMENT OF PUBLIC WORKS BUREAU OF WATER AND WASTEWATER NOTICE OF LETTING Sealed Bids or Proposals, in duplicate addressed to the Board of Estimates of the Mayor and City Council of Baltimore and marked for Water Contract 1245-Westfield Neighborhood Water Main Replacements, Baltimore will be received at the Office of the Comptroller, Room 204, City Hall, Baltimore, Maryland until 11:00 A.M. on Wednesday, June 4, 2014. Positively no bids will be received after 11:00 A.M. Bids will be publicly opened by the Board of Estimates in Room 215, City Hall at Noon.

The Contract Documents may be examined, without charge, at the Department of Public Works Service Center located on the first floor of the Abel Wolman Municipal Building, 200 N. Holliday Street, Baltimore, Maryland 21202 as of Friday, May 9, 2014 and copies may be purchased for a non-refundable cost of $50.00.

TYPESET: Wed May 07 14:01:43 2014 LEGALEDT NOTICES HOUSING AUTHORITY OF BALTIMORE CITY REQUEST FOR PROPOSALS EMPLOYMENT RECRUITMENT SERVICES RFP NUMBER: B-1759-14 The Housing Authority of Baltimore City (”HABC”) is requesting proposals from interested and qualified employment resource firms to assist with the recruitment and selection of several key positions within the agency.

PROPOSALS WILL BE DUE no later than 2:00 p.m. Eastern Time on Friday, June 13, 2014.

A non-mandatory pre-proposal conference will be held on Wednesday, May 28, 2014 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 Conditions and requirements of the Bid are found in the bid package. proposing to provide the requested services as the prime contractor. No All contractors bidding on this Contract must first be prequalified by the City goal has been established for participation of Women-owned businesses of Baltimore Contractors Qualification Committee. Interested parties (”WBEs”), however, HABC strongly encourages and affirmatively promotes should call 410-396-6883 or contact the Committee at 3000 Druid Park the use of WBEs in all HABC contracts.

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 Responders shall also comply with all applicable requirements of Section 3 be submitted with the bid for verification purposes. The of the Housing and Urban Development Act of 1968, 12 U.S.C. Section Prequalification Category required for bidding on this project is B02551 1701u.

Water Mains The RFP may be obtained on or after Monday, May 19, 2014, at the Cost Qualification Range for this work shall be $4,000,000.01 to following location: $5,000,000.00 A ”Pre-Bidding Information” session will be conducted on the 3rd Floor Housing Authority of Baltimore City Conference Room of the Bureau of Water & Wastewater, Abel Wolman Division of Fiscal Operations, Purchasing Department Municipal Building on May 16, 2014 at 10:00 A.M. 417 E. Fayette Street, Room 414 Baltimore, Maryland 21202 Principal Item of work for this project are: Attention: John Airey, Chief of Contracting Services Removal and replacement of approximately 11,850 linear feet of 4-inch, Tel: (410) 396-3261 Fax: (410) 962-1586 6-inch, 8-inch, and 10-inch existing water mains, fittings, valves, and appurtenances with new 4-inch, 6-inch, 8-inch, and 10-inch ductile iron Class 54 Questions regarding the RFP should be directed in writing to the address water main, fittings, valves, and appurtenances. Replacement of existing and individual indicated above, and must include the reference: HABC RFP galvanized water service lines with new copper pipes, replacement of small TYPESET: Wed May 07 14:02:03 EDT 2014 Number B-1759-14. residential meter settings and meter vaults, roadway paving, sidewalk restoration, curb and gutter replacement, erosion and sediment control, and maintenance of traffic as required.

PUBLIC NOTICE OFFICE OF BOARDS & COMMISSIONS The MBE goal is 10% ARCHITECTURAL & ENGINEERING The WBE goal is 2% AWARDS COMMISSION MEETING May 14, 2014 - 2:45 P.M. WATER CONTRACT 1245 APPROVED: A meeting of the Architectural & Engineering Awards Commission will be Bernice H. Taylor held on Wednesday, May 14 at 2:45 P.M. in Room 215 City Hall (Board of Clerk, Board of Estimates Estimates Chambers).

APPROVED: Rudolph S. Wed Chow, If you require special accommodations to attend or participate in the meetTYPESET: May 07 14:00:45 EDT 2014 P.E. Director of Public Works ing, please contact Michael Augins at (410) 396-6883.The following projects will be considered for award during the meeting: CITY OF BALTIMORE 1. PROJECT#1191 - ON-CALL DESIGN CONSULTANT SERVICES FOR DEPARTMENT OF PUBLIC WORKS FEDERAL AID RESURFACING AND RECONSTRUCTION PROJECTS BUREAU OF WATER AND WASTEWATER FOR THE CITY OF BALTIMORE DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION NOTICE OF LETTING Sealed Bids or Proposals, in duplicate addressed to the Board of Estimates 2.PROJECT #1206 - PROGRAM MANAGEMENT SERVICES FOR THE of the Mayor and City Council of Baltimore and marked for Water Contract CITY OF BALTIMORE WATER FACILITIES REHABILITATION PRO1262-East Baltimore Midway Neighborhood & Vicinity Water Main GRAM Replacements will be received at the Office of the Comptroller, Room 204, City Hall, Baltimore, Maryland until 11:00 A.M. on Wednesday, June 4, Michael L. Augins 2014. Positively no bids will be received after 11:00 A.M. Bids will be publicly Acting Chief opened by the Board of Estimates in Room 215, City Hall at Noon.The Contract Documents may be examined, without charge, at the Department of Public Works Service Center located on the first floor of the Abel Wolman Issues of: 5/7/14 Municipal Building, 200 N. Holliday Street, Baltimore, Maryland 21202 as of Daily Record Friday, May 9, 2014 and copies may be purchased for a non-refundable Baltimore Sun eMaryland MarketPlace cost of $50.00.

WATER CONTRACT 1262 APPROVED: Bernice H. Taylor Clerk, Board of Estimates Works APPROVED Rudolph S. Chow, P.E. Director of Public TYPESET: Wed May 07 14:01:18 EDT 2014 CITY OF BALTIMORE DEPARTMENT OF GENERAL SERVICES NOTICE OF LETTING Sealed Bids or Proposals, in duplicate addressed to the Board of Estimates of the Mayor and City Council of Baltimore and marked for GS 13807RMECU Building Window Replacement will be received at the Office of the Comptroller, Room 204, City Hall, Baltimore, Maryland until 11:00 A.M. on Wednesday, June 11, 2014. Positively no bids will be received after 11:00 A.M. Bids will be publicly opened by the Board of Estimates in Room 215, City Hall at Noon.The Contract Documents may be examined, without charge, at the Department of Public Works Service Center located on the first floor of the Abel Wolman Municipal Building, 200 N. Holliday Street, Baltimore, Maryland 21202 as of Friday, May 9, 2014 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 F08500Window Replacement Cost Qualification Range for this work shall be $1,000,000.01 to $2,000,000.00 A ”Pre-Bidding Information” session will be conducted at The Site, 401 East Fayette Street, Baltimore, MD 21202 on Wednesday, May 21, 2014 at 10:00 A.M.Principal Items of work for this project are: 1. Window Replacement The MBE goal is 27% The WBE goal is 9%

IN THE CIRCUIT COURT FOR BALTIMORE CITY Case No.: 24D14001141 IN THE MATTER OF

William Sylvester Taylor FOR CHANGE OF NAME TO William Sylvester Smith ORDER FOR NOTICE BY PUBLICATION The object of this suit is to officially change the name of the petitioner from William Sylvester Taylor to William Sylvester Smith It is this 25th day of April, 2014 by the Circuit Court for Baltimore City, ORDERED, that publication be given one time in a newspaper of general circulation in Baltimore City on or before the 25th day of May, 2014, which shall warn all interested persons to file an affidavit in opposition to the relief requested on or before the 9th day of June, 2014 Frank M. Conaway Clerk

IN THE CIRCUIT COURT FOR BALTIMORE CITY Case No.: 24D14000363 IN THE MATTER OF Joseph Flood FOR CHANGE OF NAME TO Paul Joseph Flood ORDER FOR NOTICE BY PUBLICATION The object of this suit is to officially change the name of the petitioner from Joseph Flood to Paul Joseph Flood It is this 4th day of April, 2014 by the Circuit Court for Baltimore City, ORDERED, that publication be given one time in a newspaper of general circulation in Baltimore City on or before the 5th day of May, 2014, which shall warn all interested persons to file an affidavit in opposition to the relief requested on or before the 20th day of May, 2014 Frank M. Conaway Clerk 5/09/14

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The MBE goal is 12% The WBE goal is 2%

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Conditions and requirements of the Bid are found in the bid package. Issues of: 5/9/14 Baltimore All contractors bidding on this Contract must first be prequalified by the City The TYPESET: WedTimes May 07 14:02:23 EDT 2014 of Baltimore Contractors Qualification Committee. Interested parties Afro-American 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 Legal Notice (”JV”), then in that event, the document that established the JV shall Mayor’s Office of Employment Development (MOED) be submitted with the bid for verification purposes. The Request for Proposal Prequalification Category required for bidding on this project is B02551 Specialized One Stop Career Center Water Mains Cost Qualification Range for this work shall be $5,000,000.01 to The Mayor’s Office of Employment Development (MOED), acting on behalf $10,000,000.00 of the Baltimore City Workforce Investment Board (BWIB) is issuing a A ”Pre-Bidding Information” session will be conducted on the 3rd Floor Request for Proposal (RFP) to seek an experienced organization to manConference Room of the Bureau of Water & Wastewater, Abel Wolman age a Specialized One Stop Career Center as defined by the Workforce Municipal Building on May 15, 2014 at 10:00 A.M. Investment Act of 1998 (WIA). The expected term for the contract to be Principal Item of work for this project are: awarded under this solicitation will be nine (9) months, commencing on or Removal and replacement of approximately 22,300 linear feet of 6-inch, about October 1, 2014.The MOED is an EEO/ADA/OSHA/EPA compliant 8-inch, 10-inch, 12-inch and 20-inch water mains, fittings, valves, and organization and all responsive bidders must also comply with the appurtenances with new 6-inch, 8-inch, 10-inch, 12-inch and 20-inch ductile aforementioned requirements.A bidder’s conference will be held on iron Class 54 water main, fittings, valves, and appurtenances. Replacement Thursday, May 15, 2014 at 3:00 p.m. at Eastside One Stop Career Center, of existing galvanized galvanized and non-copper service house connec- 3001 E. Madison Street, Baltimore, MD 21205. Proposals are due Monday, tion with new copper piping. Replacement of existing fire hydrants with new June 16, 2014 no later than 4:00 p.m. RFP is posted on the MOED website TYPESET: Wed May 07 14:03:41 EDT 2014 traffic fire hydrants. Restoration of sidewalk, curb and gutter, roadway on the ”About Us” page: www.oedworks.com.

TYPESET: Wed May 07 14:04:04 EDT 2014 paving and other disturbed areas. Provide temporary bypass piping.

5/9/14 CONTRACT NO. GS 13807R

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

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May 10, 2014 - May 16, 2014 The Afro-American

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TYPESET: Wed May 07 14:08:56 EDT 2014

ANNE ARUNDEL COUNTY CAREER OPPORTUNITIES Contract Administrator, Detention Center Detention Officer Engineer III GIS Specialist Maintenance Worker I Mechanical Technician I, II & Senior Network Engineer/Technician Office Support Specialist Permits Processor I Utilities Maintenance & Repair Supervisor

ADVERTISING ACCOUNT EXECUTIVE INSIDE SALES

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

AEO/DF/SFE

TYPESET: Wed May 07 14:06:26 EDT 2014

ADVERTISING ACCOUNT Advertising Sales Professional needed for the AFRO-AmericanEXECUTIVE Newspapers, Washington, D.C. or Baltimore office.

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

Competitive compensation package

• Salary and commission plan Candidates should be: Maryland Department of Housing • Self starters • Full benefits after trial period and Community Development (DHCD) • • Money motivated Opportunity for fast track • Goal-oriented Contractual HCD Community Program Administrator advancement Project Manager • Experienced in online/digital sales Recruitment#: 14-999999-436 • Confident in ability to build strong territory Filing Deadline: May 13, 2014, 11:59 pm possess: • Candidates Previous salesshould experience preferred Salary: $20.69-26.79/hour • Good typing/data entry skills Work that matters. DHCD is a national leader in the financing • Excellent customer service skills Please email your resume to: dhocker@afro. and development of affordable housing and community • Previous telephone sales experience com or mail to: development lending. The Division of Neighborhood Revi• Excellent written and verbal Newspapers talization seeks a highly organized, customer oriented,9,selfNovember 2013 - NovemberAfro-American 15, 2013, The Afro-American B7 motivated team player with knowledge of trends in foreclosure Diane W. Hocker,

communication skills prevention and loss mitigation. This position will manage Director of Human Resources foreclosure prevention and loss mitigation activities including 2519 N. Charles Street to: All architectural, engineering, and surveying firms listed inMortgage the specific Please email your resume activities related to the State Attorneys General proposal for the Project must be prequalified by the Office of Boards and Baltimore, MD 21218 Servicing Settlement.

Pleasediscipline visit www.jobaps.com/md lhowze@afro.com or mail to Commissions for each applicable at time of submittal for to this

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Insurance Requirements The consultant selected for the award of this project shall provide professional liability, auto liability, and general liability and workers ´ compensation insurances as required by the City ofBaltimore.

AFRO-American Newspapers, DianeWed W.May TYPESET: Hocker, Director of Human Resources, 2519 N. Charles Street, NURSING Baltimore, MD 21218

1st MARINER BANK MORTGAGE MORTGAGE PROFESSIONALS

Both the proposed Minority and Women´s Business Enterprise firms must be named and identified as an MBE or WBE within Item 6 of the Standard TO APPLY: Gointo the www.1stmarinerbank.com, click on Careers at the Form (SF) 255 spaces provided for identifying outside keybottom of the page, submit your information. consultants/associates anticipated for utilization for this project.

1st Mariner Bank is the largest Baltimore based banking institution. When you join our team, you participate in our Any submittals that do not include the proper MBE/WBE (in some instances mission to build will a better bank. We’refor a local organization withfor local DBE) participation be disapproved further consideration thisroots. When you work here, you’re not just a number…we’re connected to our employees in a way that only your local bank can be….and we guarantee that your project. talents will be recognized. If you’re interested in combining your potential with a leader in the community, apply with Verifying Certification us TODAY! Each firm submitting a SF 255 for consideration for a project is responsible for verifying that allMBEs and WBEs to be utilized on the project are certified youMinority feel passionately about beginning a careerOffice in the(MWBOO) expandingprior mortgage industry, apply with us TODAY. It may byIfthe and Women´sBusiness Opportunity to be submitting the proposal.

A directory certified andMortgage.

WBEs is We have highly successful branches located time to step-up your career with theofteam at 1stMBEs Mariner available fromthe MWBOO. SinceRegion. changes to the directory occur daily,will firms throughout MidAtlantic Your drive and enthusiasm qualify you; our benefits and incentive package submitting SF 255s should call MWBOO at (410) 396-4355 to verify cerwill retain you. tification, expiration dates and services that the MBE or WBE is certified to provide.

1st Mariner Bank is an equal opportunity employer. We enjoy a drug/alcohol/smoke-free workplace. Final candidates

Non-Affiliation must be prepared to show evidence of authorization to work in the US on a full-time basis. M/F/D/V A firm submitting a proposal may not use an MBE orTYPESET: WBE to meet Tuea contract Nov 05 15:16:02 EST 2013 goal if: 1.The firm has a financial interest in the MBE or WBE 2. The firm has an interest in the ownership or control of the MBE or WBE Maryland General Assembly 3.The firm is significantly involved in the operation of the MBE or WBE(ArDepartment of Legislative Services ticle 5, Subtitle 28-41).

Additional Information Come spend the winter with us A firm submitting as a prime consultant that failsWe to are comply with the looking for temporary support staff for the 2014 requirements of Article 5,Subtitle 28 of Baltimore CityLegislative Code when executing Session that runs from mid-January to early April. a contract is subject to the following penalties: suspension of a contract; for the session, some positions may begin withholding ofINSIDE funds; recision of contract based Inonpreparation material breach; SALES earlier. disqualification as a consultant from eligibility to provide services to the City ADVERTISING ACCOUNT for a period not to exceed 2 years; and payment for damages incurred by the City.

The unique legislative environment requires individuals with EXECUTIVE

good knowledge of office practices, procedures and

A resume for each person listed as key personnel and/or specialist, includwho are able to be flexible, work as part of a team ing those from MBE and WBE Sales must be shown on theequipment page provided within Entry-Level Advertising Rep in a busy work setting, and perform assignments with minithe application.

needed for the AFRO-American

mum supervision.

Please be advised that for theM.D. purpose of reviewing price proposals and Newspapers, Baltimore, invoices, the City ofBaltimore defines a principal of aJob firm requirements as follows: vary by position but some may include

computer skills. If so, proficiency in Microsoft Word 2007 is a

A Position principal is provides: any individual owning 5% or more of the outstanding stock of must; good typing, an entity, a partner of a partnership, a 5% or more shareholder of a spelling and grammar skills, excellent • Competitive compensation package sub-chapter ´S´ Corporation, or an individual owner.communication skills with demonstrated customer service

•

Salary and commission plan

•

Opportunity for fast track

experience, ability to perform multiple tasks in a fast paced

Out-of-State Corporations must identify their corporate resident and agentavailability for overtime and shift work as environment, • Full benefits after trial period within the application. required to meet legislative deadlines. PROFICIENCY TEST

BE ADMINISTERED. Salary range is $8.50 to $13.00 Firms advancement will not be considered for a specific project ifMAY they apply as both a per hour depending on position. Resumes that do not meet sub-consultant and prime consultant. the requirements above will not be considered. Positions

Candidates possess: The applications should for this Project (Form 255) cannot be supplemented included are: with any information such as graphs, photographs, organization • additional Good typing/data entry skills chart, etc. All such information should be incorporated into the appropriate Office Assistant - Assist with tracking legislation, answering • Excellent customer service skills pages.

Applications should not be bound. Applications should imply be phones, copying, and delivering INSIDE SALES bills and other misstapled in the upper left-hand corner. Cover sheets should not be included.filing • Previous telephone sales experience legislative documents.ACCOUNT Inclusion and/or submittal of additional material maycellaneous result in the applicant ADVERTISING • Excellent written and verbal being disqualified from consideration for this project.

communication skills

EXECUTIVE Distribution Clerk - Assist in sorting and delivering of bills.

Failure to follow directions of this advertisement orReceive/distribute the application mayincoming and outgoing faxes and all mecause disqualification the submittal.

Please email of your resume to:

tered mail. Entry-Level Advertising Sales Rep

lhowze@afro.com or mail to Mr. Kumasi Vinesfor the AFRO-American needed AFRO-American Newspapers, Diane W. of Boards Office Recycling and Commissions Clerk - Pick up and empty recyclable material, Newspapers, Baltimore, sort and ship to appropriate vendors.M.D. Hocker, Director of Human Resources, 2519 N. Charles Street, Public Information Clerk - Provide basic legislative inPosition provides: Baltimore, MD 21218 formation to• theCompetitive compensation package General Assembly and the public. This position involves contact with the public both in per• substantial Salary and commission plan son and over the telephone.

• Full benefits after trial period • Opportunity for fast track Administrative Support/Secretary - Format and print correspondence, advancement reports, workgroup assignments, state

YOU KNOW YOU’RE IN THE KNOW...

WHEN YOU READ THE AFRO

TYPESET: Tue Nov 05 15:16:21 EST 2013

regulations, and analyses. Must be proficient in Microsoft Office 2007.Candidates should possess:

• Good typing/data entry skills

Send resume with letter of interest indicating the positions for • applying Excellent customer service skills which you are to: Human Resources, Code 13/13A • Previous telephone sales experience (Code # is required on all resumes. Please state position • Department Excellent written and verbal applied for), of Legislative Services, 90 State Circle, Annapolis, MD 21401-1991 or e-mail to

communication skills jobs@mlis.state.md.us

Secretarial Positions Maryland General Assembly Department of Legislative Services 2014 Legislative Session

Please email your resume to:

Department of Legislative Servicesorismail an EOE. lhowze@afro.com to

Maryland General Assembly Department of Legislative Services

07 14:06:06 EDT 2014

NURSING FACULTY Carroll Community College seeks full-time, 10-month nursing faculty members.

Detailed information may be obtained at www.carrollcc.edu.

MBE/WBE Requirements It is the policy of the City of Baltimore to promote equal business opportunity in the City´s contracting process. Pursuant to Article 5, Subtitle 28 of Baltimore City Code (2000 Edition) -Minority and Women´s Business Program, Minority Business Enterprise (MBE) and Women´sBusiness Enterprise (WBE) participation goals apply to this contract.

The MBE goal is 27% The WBE goal is 10%

To advertise in the AFRO Call 410-554-8200

read more about this position and to submitprocess an online applicaProject.

Information regarding the prequalification can be obtained tion.

EOE by calling the Office of Boards and Commissions on 410.396.6883.

To advertise in the AFRO call 410-554-8200

AFRO-American Newspapers, Diane W. Hocker, Director of Human Resources, 2519 N. Charles Street, Baltimore, MD 21218

SUBSCRIBE TODAY

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The Afro-American, May 10, 2014 - May 16, 2014