Prince Georges Afro American Newspaper February 15 2014

PRINCE GEORGE’S COUNTY EDITION

Volume 122 No. 28

FEBRUARY 15, 2014 - FEBRUARY 21, 2014

White House State Dinner Draws A-List Notables

Election 2014

Gansler Comments About Prince George’s Generate Debate

By Zenitha Prince Special to the AFRO State Attorney General Douglas F. Gansler (D), a candidate for governor, is facing criticism after questioning the level of development in Prince George’s County and his rival Lt. Gov. Anthony Brown’s commitment to the county.

Gansler made the statements at the opening of his first campaign office in the county.

Speaking at the opening of his campaign office in Forestville Feb. 8, Gansler

said Prince George’s County has been passed over for development compared to surrounding counties. At the time he made the comments, several people in the Doug Gansler is facing room seemed to agree. criticism over comments about County residents often development. bemoan the fact that chain retailers have according to a video recording failed to move into the of his speech. But, there’s still county. Until recent years, economic, educational and the county also had difficulty transportation ‘redlining’ in drawing many restaurant the county. chains, as well.

“So when people get up in “There’ve been great Continued on A4 strides made,” Gansler said,

Forest Heights Unveils New Surveillance Cameras

By Le Anne Boohene Special to the AFRO The small town of Forest Heights recently unveiled new surveillance cameras focusing on the entrances and exits of the area in an attempt to further ensure the safety of its residents.

Mayor Jacqueline Goodall, a resident of Forest Heights for 17 years, is behind the project. With the support of the Forest Heights Police, funding was set aside from the Public Safety budget to begin installing cameras.

“We’re doing things like this, things like the cameras, to help our citizens,” Goodall said. “It’s our responsibility as elected officials to ensure we protect the health, safety and welfare of all our citizens.”

According to the 2010 Census Bureau, Forest Heights is home to 2,447 residents, a majority of them African-Americans.

The most serious crimes regularly encountered are burglaries and theft; murders and assault charges are rare. The overall crime rate for the past five years has been on the decline, a trend town officials expect to continue this year.

However, the tiny town borders other major cities such as

Cicely Tyson, Ben Jealous, Julia Louis-Dreyfus, Rep. Elijah Cummings, Al Sharpton, and Stephen Colbert Among Guests--Mary J. Blige Entertained AP Photo

By Darlene Superville Associated Press Michelle and Barack Obama found just the right spot to seat a gent going stag to Tuesday’s state dinner: They plopped French President Francois Hollande down right between them in a giant party tent, and put the pshaw to all that drama about his solo trip to the U.S. after a very public breakup from his first lady.

Voter registration deadline June 3

The A-list guest roster for the biggest social event of Obama’s second term — flush with celebrities, Democratic donors, politicians and business types — mostly tried not to go there, tactfully avoiding talk about “l’affaire Hollande.”

“I don’t get involved in those things,” demurred actress Cicely Tyson, who at age 80 said she’s been to plenty of state dinners over the

years.

Former NAACP official Ben Jealous was nothing but admiring of the French intrigue.

“I think the French are way cooler than we are on a whole lot of fronts,” he said, including “way better gossip.”

On a frigid night, the evening’s pomp and pageantry were all designed to wrap Hollande in a comfy blanket Continued on A5

Continued on A3

Photo by Travis Riddick

H. Beecher Hicks to Step Down as Pastor of D.C.’s Metropolitan Baptist Church

By Keith Harriston Special to the AFRO

afro.com

Your History • Your Community • Your News

The AFROAmerican Newspaper Prince George’s County Edition is Published weekly as an E-edition.

Notification is sent to you via email.

You can opt-out of receiving this by selecting the unsubscribe option at the bottom of each email notice.

Join the AFRO on Twitter and Facebook

The Rev. H. Beecher Hicks Jr. is stepping down as pastor of Metropolitan Baptist Church in the Shaw neighborhood of Northwest Washington, citing health problems as a factor in his retirement.

Hicks has served as pastor of Metropolitan Baptist for 37 years, making him one of the longest continuously-serving pastors in the District of Columbia. He announced the decision to his congregation from the pulpit on Feb. 2. Hicks told a meeting of approximately 200 members of his congregation about his decision the previous Friday.

According to several church members in attendance, Hicks said he had been diagnosed with Parkinson’s disease. Hicks Rev. H. Beecher told church members that a Hicks Jr. is committee has begun forming a stepping down. succession plan. metropolitanbaptist.org Hicks became pastor of Metropolitan in 1977, and under his guidance it became one of the District’s most socially and politically influential churches. From the mid-1980s through the 1990s, worshipers filled the 1,400-seat church sanctuary at 13th and R streets NW. Both early- and late-morning services were often standing room only. On Sundays during election seasons, D.C. candidates had to make sure to visit Metropolitan and be welcomed by Hicks.

Continued on A4

Dr. Eugene M. DeLoatch, right, dean School of Engineering, Morgan State University, presents the Presidents Award to Dan Akerson, retiring CEO and chairman, General Motors.

Gen. Lester Lyles, U.S. Air Force (Ret), presents the Community Service Award to Paige Lewter, electronic engineer, Naval Air System Command.

BEYA Conference Honors, Inspires

By Mia Alexander-Davis Special to the AFRO

The 2014 Black Engineer of the Year honoree, Stephanie C. Hill, president, Information Systems and Global Solutions, Lockheed Martin Corporation

They came from all across the nation to honor STEM stalwarts and to reach out to young people considering careers in the fields of science, technology, engineering and math.

The location was the Marriott Wardman Park in Northwest Washington, where hundreds gathered for workshops and social events at the 2014 Black Engineer of the Year Awards (BEYA) Conference Feb. 6-8.

The BEYA-STEM Conference, organized by Career Communications Group Inc., created a community of support

Copyright © 2014 by the Afro-American Company

Continued on A6

A2

The Afro-American, February 15, 2014 - February 21, 2014

Your History • Your Community • Your News

The Afro-American Newspapers

Baltimore Office • Corporate Headquarters 2519 N. Charles Street Baltimore, Maryland 21218-4602 410-554-8200 • Fax: 1-877-570-9297 www.afro.com

NATION & WORLD

Floyd Adams Jr., First Black Mayor of Savannah, Ga., Laid to Rest at 68

Founded by John Henry Murphy Sr., August 13, 1892 Washington Publisher Emerita - Frances L. Murphy II Chairman of the Board/Publisher - John J. Oliver, Jr. Executive Assistant - Takiea Hinton - 410-554-8222 Receptionist - Wanda Pearson - 410-554-8200 Director of Advertising Lenora Howze - 410-554-8271 - lhowze@afro.com Baltimore Advertising Manager Robert Blount - 410-554-8246 - rblount@afro.com Director of Finance - Jack Leister - 410-554-8242 Archivist - Ja-Zette Marshburn - 410-554-8265 Director, Community & Public Relations Diane W. Hocker - 410-554-8243 Editorial Executive Editor - Avis Thomas-Lester Editor - Dorothy Boulware News Editor - Gregory Dale Production Department - 410-554-8288 Global Markets Director - Benjamin M. Phillips IV - 410-554-8220 - bphillips@afro.com Baltimore Circulation/Distribution Manager Sammy Graham - 410-554-8266

Washington Office 1917 Benning Road, N.E. Washington, D.C. 20002-4723 202-332-0080 • Fax: 1-877-570-9297 General Manager Washington Circulation/Distribution Manager Edgar Brookins - 202-332-0080, ext. 106 Director of Advertising Lenora Howze - ext. 119 - lhowze@afro.com Business Solutions Consultant Elaine Fuller - ext. 115 - efuller@afro.com Office Administrator - Mia Hayes-Hawkins - ext. 100

Customer Service, Home Delivery and Subscriptions: 410-554-8234 • Customer Service@afro.com Billing Inquiries: 410-554-8226 Nights and Weekends: 410-554-8282

Courtesy Photo

Hundreds gathered Feb. 7 for the funeral of Floyd Adams Jr., the first Black mayor of Savannah, Ga. In addition to his political career, Adams, 68, was the publisher of The Savannah Herald, which his father founded in 1945 to cover African-American news in the region. Adams Jr. served 13 years on the Savannah City Council before he was elected mayor in 1995 in a close race against an incumbent. He was elected to

Floyd Adams Jr. a second term in 1999.

“Floyd Adams was a uniter,” current Savannah Mayor Edna Jackson said in a statement. “He ignored racial, economic and social barriers during his decades of public service, and in doing so became the mayor of all [of] Savannah.”

In his first inaugural address, Adams made it clear that he was a chief executive for the whole city.

“My race, or gender for that matter, has no bearing on how well I can lead Savannah,” he said.

Adams was laid to rest following a funeral service attended by more than 800 people, including childhood friends and citizens he served as an elected official. St. James Catholic Church rocked with song and praise for the man who prided himself in being a public servant, according to news reports.

“I just want to point out Floyd was the first Black mayor of the first city of Georgia and he died on Feb. 1, the first day of Black History Month,” Adams’ longtime friend, Ronald Williams, told Savannah CBS affiliate WTOC. Mary Osborne, a colleague of Adams’ on the council, said the late mayor was a dependable friend, the TV news station reported.

“Floyd was…always there when I needed him,” she said.

“Any advice, any guidance, Floyd would be there for me. I love him dearly. I love his family.”

Adams is survived by his wife, Deborah, and two children, Kenny and Khristi.

GM’s Johnson, 1st Black VP of Manufacturing

Gerald Johnson, General Motors’ first Black vice president of North American manufacturing, received a lifetime achievement honor at the Black Engineer of the Year Awards STEM Conference in Washington, D.C. on Feb 8.

Johnson was presented with the award by Mary Barra, GM’s first female CEO. Earlier that day, Johnson sat down for brunch with members of the media at the Capella Hotel in Washington, D.C. to talk about his groundbreaking 33 year career at the nation’s top automaker.

“My first assignment at 18 years old was to supervise 35 women on sewing machines—I still say that was the toughest job I’ve had,” Johnson said with a laugh, referring to his early days with GM in Euclid, Ohio.

Later, Johnson moved from Ohio to Grand Blanc, Mich.

“That decision was huge because I went into a STEM environment, and about six months after I got there a young plant manager took over the plant who was just enthused about giving young talent opportunities,” Johnson said. “And I just happened to be a young talent and he

MARCH 10-15, 2014

AT NORFOLK SCOPE ARENA MEACHoops.com

For hotels, dining & things to do, visit www.visitnorfolktoday.com.

Courtesy Photo

Gerald Johnson

gave me some opportunities that allowed me to progress fairly quickly.”

Johnson ascended to his current role on July 1. He manages more than 74,000 employees across 56 facilities in North America which produce some of GM’s most popular vehicles, including the Chevrolet Impala, Buick Enclave, GMC Sierra and the Cadillac CTS. Johnson’s career also took him and his wife and their seven children overseas when he became executive director of manufacturing based in Zurich, Switzerland for three and a half years. During that time, Johnson was also responsible for GM manufacturing facilities in Russia, Poland, Germany, Spain, Portugal and Uzbekistan.

“That was hugely expanding for me and broadening,” Johnson said. “There’s a basis of commonality because it is manufacturing, so in concept the objectives and processes at plants are very similar, yet the cultures were obviously very different,” he added.

Johnson also reflected on the responsibility of being a role model and mentor as GM’s first Black vice-president of manufacturing in North America.

“It’s a responsibility that I can’t avoid so I welcome it,” he said. “Whether it’s in my role as senior leader of “G-Man,” which is our General Motors African ancestry network, or whether it’s in a lunch and learn session, which we do regularly with African Americans throughout the company.”

“It’s important that we make sure that everyone understands that there’s a place of opportunity, there’s a place of inclusion and that performance whatever body it comes in is welcome and that’s a huge responsibility,” he added.

Fearing Gentrification, Black Portland Neighborhood tells Trader Joe’s ‘No’ to New Store

The Trader Joe’s grocery store chain recently announced that it no longer plans to open a store in a predominately African-American neighborhood in Portland after activists claimed the store’s prices weren’t affordable for Black families.

Local community leaders and activists said Feb. 3 that opening a Trader Joe’s in the historically Black neighborhood would “increase the desirability of the neighborhood for nonoppressed populations” and risk gentrifying the neighborhood.

In a statement to EurWeb, the Portland African American Leadership Forum said having a somewhat pricey food store in their Portland neighborhood would displace residents and perpetuate income inequality in the area.

A letter sent to city officials from the group said it would “remain opposed to any development in north/northeast Portland that does not primarily benefit the Black community.”

“We run neighborhood stores, and our approach is simple,” the grocery chain said in a statement. “If a neighborhood does not want a Trader Joe’s, we understand, and we won’t open the store in question.”

The company told The Oregonian that it wouldn’t press its plans for the store, given community resistance. Trader Joe’s are located throughout the country in urban neighborhoods.

According to The Oregonian, the store would have been located on a vacant lot on Northeast Alberta Street and Northeast Martin Luther King Jr. Boulevard.

California-based developed Majestic Realty Co. planned to build an $8 million retail strip mall on the site, which included the Trader Joes and 10 other retailers. The developer called Trader Joe’s decision a major “loss for the city.” Future plans for the vacant lot have not been determined.

February 15, 2014 - February 21, 2014, The Afro-American

A3

Prince George’s County Council Holds Hearing on Gaming

By Courtney Jacobs AFRO Staff Writer The Prince George’s County Council held the first of several hearings on gaming and community benefits on Feb. 11.

MGM Resorts International is planning on building a casino complex at National Harbor in Artist’s rendering of MGM National Harbor Prince George’s County that could cost as much as $925 million. In their first hearing before the lifetime pathological gamblers, while 1.5 percent are lifetime council, consultants John D. Simpson, Derek problem gamblers.

Albert and Sean Werdlow explained the effects of gaming, Residents that live within 50 miles of a casino are more including the difference between problem gambling and likely to start gambling. Simpson asked the council if all nine pathological gambling.

Problem gambling is defined as an urge to continuously gamble districts were within 50 miles of the casino; all answered “yes.”

“You all have to come together as one,” Simpson told despite harmful negative consequences or a desire to stop. Problem the council. “The casino is not going to look at you as nine gambling often is defined by whether harm is experienced by the different districts. They are going to look at you as one entity.” gambler or others, rather than by the gambler’s behavior.

The building of casinos can lead to job loss, an increase in Severe problem gambling may eventually be diagnosed as bankruptcies, divorce, increased crime and family disruption, and clinical pathological gambling, a common disorder associated with both social and family costs. According to the consultants’ revenue declines for local businesses. Income levels generally do not rise with new casino development, which means the new jobs presentation to the council, 1.2 percent of U.S. adults are

are low-paying jobs. There is also a higher arrest rate seen amongst pathological and problem gamblers.

However, the gaming consultants said there are also some pros to the building of casinos, among them increased tax revenues, additional jobs including construction jobs and local contracts, a decreased unemployment rate and unemployment insurance payouts, local investor opportunities and increased revenue from hospitality and amusement.

“There are a lot of activities here at the casinos that the community can enjoy,” Albert told the council.

MGM Resorts International was chosen as the winner of the area’s gaming license over Penn National Gaming, owner of Rosecroft Raceway, and Bensalem, Pa.-based Greenwood Racing Inc. The casino is scheduled to open in 2016 with 3,600 slot machines, 140 gaming tables, a concert theater, several celebrity chef-branded restaurants, a spa, luxury retail stores, a reflecting pool and other amenities. MGM National Harbor plans to employ about 4,000 people.

Congresswoman Donna Edwards Leads Roundtable on Women-Owned Business

By Courtney Jacobs AFRO Staff Writer Congresswoman Donna Edwards (D) visited the Clarion Hotel in Oxon Hill on Feb.10 to host a Women-Owned Business Roundtable in Maryland’s 4th Congressional District.

In June 2008, Edwards was sworn in as the first African-American woman to represent Maryland in the House of Representatives. In her tenure, she has introduced legislation to expand research and development, domestic manufacturing, and infrastructure spending to create jobs and grow the economy.

Attended by approximately 50 female entrepreneurs and

future entrepreneurs, the event discussed keys to starting and running a successful business, from accessing capital and federal contracts to utilizing mentor programs.

Also in attendance were state Delegates Jolene Ivey and Aisha Braveboy, representing Maryland’s 47th and 25th districts, respectively.

Margot Dorfman, CEO of the U.S. Women’s Chamber of Commerce, provided the keynote speech, and discussed topics including how to obtain a federal contract.

“First thing is that you need to do your homework before you step on anyone’s doorstep,” Dorfman said.

Dorfman also offered advice about receiving loans.

“Never take a credit card over a loan,” Dorfman said.

Dorfman asked the audience whether any of them have considered running for office; only a handful of people raised their hands.

She encouraged them to do

regarding accessing and maximizing capital, competing for and maintaining federal contracts.

The roundtable panelists featured Theresa Clark, director of the Small Business Program Office and Air

“…the event discussed keys to starting and running a successful business…” so, noting that out of the 435 seats in the House of Representatives, only 171 women ran for one in the last election and 81 were elected.

“You have the power,” Dorfman said. “Now, it’s time to step up and take control.”

A group of panelists followed, fielding questions

Force District of Washington Joint Base Andrews, D.C.; Guylaine Sainte-Juste, senior vice president of Capitol One; Erin Andrews, assistant administrator of the U.S. Small Business Administration; and Julia Hudson, regional administrator of the National

Capitol Region for the U.S. General Services Administration.

Many attendees had concerns about problems with their local banks.

“Establish a relationship, not only with your bank, but with your banker,” SainteJuste told the crowd. She said that relationship will help business owners learn more information about their banks A second panel discussed the U.S. Small Business Administration’s mentorprotégé program.

The panel featured Stacy Trammell, president and CEO of Zavda Technologies, Inc. and Nancy H. Deskins, director of Category Management and Supplier Diversity for Lockheed

Martin, along with Clark and Andrews.

Deskins described the program as “a relationship between a mentor and a socioeconomic regulatory defined category of small business, with the intent of enhancing their technical capabilities and business infrastructure.”

It includes strict milestone schedules and reporting requirements and is treated like any other government contract.

“Be consistent and stick with your goals,” Trammell told the crowd. “Don’t get discouraged if you get declined the first time you try.

It depends on the relationship you build with that business.

Go out there and grow your business.”

Forest Heights Continued from A1

Oxon Hill, Fort Washington, Temple Hill and Southeast D.C., outside influences that could potentially impact the safety of the Forest Heights community.

Forest Heights Police Department Chief Stewart Russell said he has a positive outlook for the future of the town.

Russell’s staff includes five officers and a deputy chief, but he said even small police stations have to keep up with the times.

“We want this system and the future cameras that will be installed to, as much as possible, safeguard this town,” Russell said. “Technology will not completely safe guard, you cannot

“We want this system and the future cameras that will be installed to… safeguard this town.”

History isn’t just our past.

It’s something we make every day.

We’re proud to support the continuous achievements of the African American community.

This month and every month.

– Stewart Russell get away from the human element—that is, the police working in unison with the citizens and residents of this town.”

Although the city has used cameras in the past, the new units are of a higher caliber. The upgraded cameras, installed

by SeeView Security, have constant live feed with HD viewing capabilities, 360 degree coverage and quick playback. The equipment is placed high on poles and protected by a circular casing. Video will be recorded around the clock and can be accessed in the station or in police vehicles at any time.

Stanley Mosley Sr., supervisor of the Public Works Department, said surveillance from the cameras allows for better monitoring of the streets, any residents that need police assistance, and traffic hot spots around town, especially in bad weather.

“I think it’s the best thing that could have happened to the town, the citizens and for Public Works,” he said.

Additional cameras are scheduled to be installed near local schools and parks.

TD Bank, N.A. | Equal Opportunity Employer 189039.1-D14-BHM_Ad_Wash_Afro_Amer_7.28x10_4C.indd 1

2/3/14 10:30 AM

A4

The Afro-American, February 15, 2014 - February 21, 2014

U.S. Voting Hurdles Remain

By Freddie Allen NNPA Washington Correspondent

If you thought that the U. S. Constitution guaranteed your right to vote, think again.

“While the right to vote is inherent throughout our founding document, and there are amendments prohibiting discrimination, nothing in the Constitution explicitly guarantees our right to vote. We, as Americans, possess no affirmative right to vote,” said Rep. Mark Pocan (D-Wis.) as he introduced legislation on voting rights with Rep. Keith Ellison (D-Minn.) in May 2013.

The Pocan-Ellison Right to Vote Amendment would provide all eligible citizens an affirmative right to vote and make it harder for state and local legislators to pass restrictive laws that have disenfranchised Blacks and poor voters in the past.

The bill gained little traction in Congress last year, but the right to vote amendment, restrictive voting laws and election reform were all on the menu during the recent Eighth Annual Voting and Elections Summit, presented by the Overseas Vote Foundation and U.S. Vote Foundation.

The summit featured election experts and voters’ rights advocates who addressed issues related to grassroots innovations in voting, midterm mobilization and new voting technology. Speakers also discussed the most recent developments, including last summer’s historic Shelby County v. Holder Supreme Court decision that held that Section 4 of the Voting Rights Act of 1965 was unconstitutional.

SCOTUS demanded that the Congress update the preclearance formula in Section 4 that required states with a history of voting practices that discriminated against Blacks to clear any changes in voting laws in advance with the Justice Department. The court insisted on a more updated formula.

Before the 1965 VRA became law,

said that Chief Justice John Roberts used “powerfully faulty logic” in his decision in the Shelby case.

“Imagine there is an intersection which has a long history of people speeding going through the town [causing] traffic accidents…

So, they put in speed bumps, traffic lights, speed cameras, stiff fines and remarkably over

Black voters, especially in the South, were often subjected to poll taxes, literacy tests, intimidation and sometimes death in their effort to vote. After the law was passed, the Justice Department often turned to Section 4 and Section 5 of the VRA to prevent discriminatory voting practices.

“Section 5 was amazingly effective at blocking the use of new discriminatory practices in the covered jurisdictions,” said Robert Kengle, co-director of the Voting Rights Project at the Lawyers Committee for Civil Rights Under Law. In the wake of the Shelby decision, state legislators rushed to pass new restrictive laws that were once automatically blocked by the Justice Department.

Norman Ornstein, resident scholar at the American Enterprise Institute, a private, nonpartisan, conservative-leaning think tank dedicated to research and education on public policy issues, economics and social welfare,

a period of time, no problems, no deaths,” said Ornstein. “Then you get authorities saying, ‘We solved that problem now let’s take out the speed bumps, take out the cameras, never mind the fines.’ And my goodness, before long, mayhem occurs.’”

Now, because of the Supreme Court decision, the Justice Department is forced to play whack-a-mole filing lawsuits against the most onerous, most visible voting laws.

“The real problem is you have a lot of these local jurisdictions, nobody is going to have the resources to bring the lawsuits,” said Ornstein.

“There will be stuff below the surface that we will not see that will have a real impact.”

In an effort to reverse the damage of the Shelby County v. Holder decision, House lawmakers crafted the Voting Rights Act of 2014. The bill requires states to publicize any last minute changes to voting laws. If a state committed five or more violations in the last 15 years, they would automatically fall under

the supervision of the Justice Department.

Cities and counties face a lower threshold under the new bill; if they commit three violations in 15 years, the Justice Department can step in and require preclearance for any changes in voting laws and could effectively block laws before they disenfranchise voters.

Under VRA 2014, Georgia, Louisiana, Texas and Mississippi would require preclearance for any changes.

“We are not out of the woods yet,” said Rep. John Conyers (D-Mich.) during his keynote address at the summit. “The bipartisan cooperation that has allowed us to get this far will ultimately carry the day and allow us to meet these challenges made by the Supreme Court and continue strong enforcement around our most fundamental right, a sacred right— the right to vote.”

As many voters’ rights advocates applauded the bipartisan effort, they also noted the shortcomings, especially the soft touch given to restrictive voter ID laws.

“Although the Lawyer’s Committee doesn’t agree with every single provision of the act, this is a true demonstration, a meaningful action on this critically important issue for our country,” said Barbara Arnwine, the president and executive director of the Lawyers Committee for Civil Rights Under Law. Ornstein was less optimistic.

“Despite the fact that this is sponsored in a bipartisan way, there is no appetite in the leadership of the House of Representatives to move a voting rights act. We have to start thinking about other alternatives,” he said.

the Boulevard at the Capital Centre in Largo; there’s the new Whole Foods supermarket under construction in Riverdale; there’s Woodmore Town Center and other new and ongoing development.

About 30 Prince George’s officials, most of them public supporters of Brown, signed an open letter to Gansler criticizing his statements.

“His words are demeaning and nothing could be further from the truth,” said the letter.

“The only thing that has ever prevented Mr. Gansler from shopping or eating in our County is the out of touch stereotypes that he’s now perpetuating to try to win an election.”

Brown, who Gansler and running mate Del. Jolene Ivey (D-Pr. Geo.) painted as having

been out of touch with the needs of the county during his time as Maryland’s second-incommand, also rebutted Gansler’s remarks.

“After I completed my active-duty service in the army 22 years ago, I chose to start a family in Prince George’s County. I live here and I love it. There are many terrific places in our county to shop, dine and live,” Brown said in a statement to the AFRO. “The Attorney General’s comments do a disservice to my neighbors and community leaders who have worked so hard to make Prince George’s a great place to call home.”

But the Gansler campaign called the reaction “manufactured outrage” on the part of Brown’s supporters, who seem determined to support the status quo.

“Saturday’s office opening was an extraordinary event dominated by an outpouring of public support for a team that believes the children of Prince George’s deserve #1 schools and [that] our hard-working families have earned thriving economic development,” said Ivey in a statement e-mailed to the AFRO. “Don’t let 28 people who weren’t there and have a vested interest in the status quo drown out the voices of the more than 200 Prince Georgians who cheered their support.

“The Gansler/Ivey team will not tell the people of Prince George’s they should smile and be happy with less than everybody else.

We will fight for them to be part of our state’s shared prosperity,” she added.

“If you thought that the U. S. Constitution guaranteed your right to vote, think again.”

Gansler Comments Continued from A1

front of you and say, ‘We have one Maryland,’ we do on a map,” he continued. “But we have two Marylands: There are those who have it and those who don’t.”

He cited the lack of “economic development” around the county’s Metro stops. And, he added, when he was growing up, “You couldn’t shop in a mall in Prince George’s or go to a restaurant with a table cloth in Prince George’s. You had to come to Montgomery County or Anne Arundel County.

And it’s not that different now.”

Detractors said Gansler’s statements were patronizing and belied reality: there’s National Harbor, with its newly added Tangers outlet mall complex; there’s the $645 million regional hospital slated for construction at

H. Beecher Hicks Continued from A1

At its zenith in the early

2000s, Metropolitan boasted

Unsolved Mystery: High Tech Racism is about a woman who was unknowingly involved in a medical experiment. During an operation, Joyce Smith was injected with transmitter receivers or microchips that enable her to pick up conversation from a group of racist no one else can hear. Apparently, these people needed a guinea pig for their research. For years these racists stalked Joyce 24/7. They would position themselves about fifty feet from her and turn on satellite equipment that would activate the receivers in her body, causing her many medical problems over the years. They arranged a conspiracy of lies in her community in order to discredit her story and her character. They wanted doctors and the public to believe she had a mental illness, which is what people usually believe when you say you hear voices no one else hears. The police and FBI told Joyce she needed solid proof, but gathering medical evidence is difficult when doctors do not believe you. The author feels it is important for everyone to know that this kind of crime exists, because it could happen to you!

Written by: Joyce Smith To purchase a book, contact:

Ukazoo Book Store 730 Dulaney Valley Road Towson, Maryland 21204 410.832.2665 or

Wisdom Book Center 5116 Liberty Heights Avenue Baltimore, MD 21207 410.664.1946

a congregation of more than 6,000 people and 60 ministries. Its impact in its immediate area was hard to miss. The church purchased nearby boarded-up apartment buildings and renovated them. It bought out a corner deli that had been an outdoor hangout for drug dealers and their customers, an action that scattered the illicit traffic and transformed the hangout into a small grocery. Church members helped out a nearby homeless shelter. During a four-year period of time in that decade, Metropolitan donated $250,000 to support a public elementary school adjacent to church property.

Finally, the church started its own day school for grades K-8 in the Brookland section of Northeast Washington.

Members of his congregation describe Hicks as an “excellent preacher” who crafted a sermon better than most. Hicks also hit high points with his rich

voice--described by one longtime member as “like Paul Robeson”--that touched church worshipers on many Sunday mornings when he would join in song with Metropolitan’s many choirs.

Metropolitan will celebrate its 150th anniversary this year.

It was started by 10 freed slaves in the quarters of Quaker soldiers during the Civil War. In spring 2004, Metropolitan began selling its real estate

“Rev. Hicks took Metropolitan to another level.”

– Claude Bailey

“Rev. Hicks took Metropolitan to another level,” said Claude Bailey, a longtime member of the church who currently serves on its Deacon Board. “He put Metropolitan on the map as one of the great Black churches in the country.”

Three requests for an interview with Hicks were made to Metropolitan, but he was unavailable before deadline.

����������

������������������������� �������������������������������������� ��������������������������������� �������������������������

��������������� �������������� ������������������� ���������������������� ��������������

� ���� ����� ��� ��� ������

���������������������������������������������������

������������

around 13th, 12th and R streets NW. Among the property sold were its sanctuary and offices, which were bought by Unity of Washington.

That same year, Metropolitan broke ground on a 34-acre parcel of land in Largo in Prince George’s County that was to be the site of new church facilities.

Initial plans included a sanctuary that seats 3,000, an amphitheater, a banquet hall, reference and conference centers, private rooms for counseling and a daycare center for children. There also were plans to construct housing for older people on the site.

Plans for the move were driven, in part, because of the growth of the congregation and the diminishing number of parking spaces available near the church because of gentrification. Newcomers to the neighborhood complained loudly to D.C. government officials because Sunday churchgoers from Metropolitan and other

downtown churches filled parking spaces. The church members also continued a long-accepted tradition of double parking on some residential streets near the churches, which drew complaints from its newer neighbors.

But the economic downturn derailed Metropolitan’s plans for new facilities, just as the bad economy hurt the expansion plans of many churches as access to money tightened. Construction had hardly begun at the Largo site when, according to published reports, banks would not make further loans to Metropolitan to continue work at the new location.

In the meantime, with its buildings sold, Metropolitan had to find a new home for its worship services. It currently uses an auditorium in the former Armstrong High School at 1st and P streets in northwest Washington.

By 2009, the number of church members had fallen to about 2,000. The congregation has shrunk to just below 2,000 since then, according to church members.

“He’s a world class preacher, and a universal spirit,” said Robert “Brother Ah” Northern, who has been a member of Metropolitan for 15 years. “He can reach his people--and I mean African American people-he can reach their intellect through emotions and he can reach their emotions through intellect. He has been very connected to the people.”

February 15, 2014 - February 21, 2014, The Afro-American

A5

State Dinner Continued from A1

of warmth, from the moment he stepped out of his limo and onto a red carpet on the White House north portico.

The Obamas were there on the front steps to greet the French president, the first lady clad in a black and liberty blue silk gown by Carolina Herrera.

The celebrity quotient on the guest list was impressive, including actors Bradley Cooper, Julia Louis-Dreyfus, Mindy Kaling and Tyson.

Comedy Central’s Stephen Colbert snagged a seat right next to the first lady. There were plenty of politicians, per usual. And in a midterm election year, the Obamas invited in more than two dozen donors to Obama’s campaigns and the Democratic Party.

Among them were Irwin Jacobs, the Qualcomm Inc. founder who has given more than $2 million to pro-Obama super PACs, and Jane Stetson, the Democratic National Committee’s finance chair.

One of the most frequent phrases of the night was “un peu.” As in, nope, don’t speak much French.

A few brave souls ventured out of their comfort zones to try a word or two.

“Oui, oui, oui,” declared the Rev. Al Sharpton, sounding like he was reciting the nursery rhyme about the little piggies.

Sacramento Mayor Kevin Johnson said wife Michelle Rhee taught him a couple of French phrases en route to the White House and declared, “I’m ready to bust ‘em out.”

Here goes: “bonsoir” and “bon appetit.”

Bronx-born singer Mary J. Blige, the evening’s entertainment, had to think for a second when asked whether she had a French connection, then ventured: “Um, my last name is French.”

Obama, in his dinner toast, was deliberately sparing with his French.

He welcomed the guests with a hearty “bonsoir” and then confessed, “I have now officially exhausted my French.”

He then delivered the requisite praises of all things French — “especially the wine.”

Hollande delivered a good portion of his remarks in respectable English before switching back to French.

“We love Americans, although we don’t always say so,” he told the crowd.

Amidst all the pleasantries and tactful chitchat, there was the occasional moment of candor.

Cosmopolitan editor Joanna Coles, asked about her Kaufman Franco black dress with a leather bodice, told reporters, “I was hoping it wasn’t too slutty.”

Samantha Power, the U.S. ambassador to the U.N., drew a blank when reporters asked the designer of her vibrant green dress. She called on her husband, Cass Sunstein, to check the label and dutifully reported Badgley Mischka.

Across the room from Hollande and Obama, veepand-veep sat shoulder-toshoulder: That would be Vice President Joe Biden and actress Julia Louis-Dreyfus, star of HBO’s comedy “Veep.”

The White House did its straight-faced best to keep the attention on anything but Hollande’s personal life, preparing an outsized dinnerfor-350 in a heated pavilion on the South Lawn that had patches of greenery and vines dripping from the ceiling at either end . (There’s no room inside the White House that could handle that many guests.)

In the kind of awkward timing that gives protocol officers ulcers, the White House last fall invited Hollande and his longtime girlfriend, Valerie Trierweiler, to come for a state visit, the first such honor for France

in two decades. But then just weeks ago, the two abruptly split after a tabloid caught a helmeted Hollande zipping via motorcycle to a liaison with

actress Julie Gayet.

The evening’s four-course dinner celebrated American cuisine. The main course: dry-aged rib eye beef from a

family farm in Colorado, with Jasper Hill Farm blue cheese from Vermont.

One behind-the-scenes revelation about dessert: The

chefs used a paint sprayer to distribute a micro-thin layer of chocolate over the creamy ganache cake. Also part of the dessert lineup: cotton candy

dusted with orange zest.

Associated Press writers Josh Lederman and Jack Gillum contributed to this report.

A6

The Afro-American, February 15, 2014 - February 21, 2014

Haitian President Speaks at Howard U. on Country’s Education and Recovery

By Maria Adebola Special to the AFRO Haitian President Michel Joseph Martelly emphasized the importance of learning to a crowd of faculty, students, and other attendees at Howard University on Feb. 5, saying that “education frees us of ignorance and servitude.”

Martelly and his wife, Sophia Martelly, visited Howard’s School of Business to talk about education and the positive changes Haiti has experienced following a catastrophic 2010 earthquake.

In the aftermath of the disaster, Martelly made education one of the four top priorities of his platform when he ran for president in 2010. Early in his term, Martelly proposed a revolutionary program aimed at providing free and mandatory education to primary school-aged Haitian children.

“Two years and eight months after taking office, I am proud to report that nearly 1.3 million primary school-aged children have been enrolled in school as part of my government education program,” Martelly said to the crowd.

According to the president, nearly 4,000 schools in Haiti were damaged by the earthquake. But under his presidency, “329 classrooms have been built, many of them equipped with computers and Internet access. In addition, we have rehabilitated 125 schools and other facilities.” Also, a fleet of buses have been purchased to provide free transportation to students.

Leticia Lamour, 22 and a nursing student at Howard University, was eager to hear what Martelly had to say.

“I go there quite often, so I see for my own eyes that the images of Haiti are changing,” Lamour said. “I like that he wanted to have a partnership with Howard, which I think is a great idea for Haiti, being the first Black capital of the free world. I am leaving with a little more of an understanding on

the president’s plan for the country, and I appreciated the candidness that came from him.”

Martelly said he found it unacceptable and shameful that millions of Haitian children were not going to school because their parents could not afford the school fees.

“In Haiti, education is highly valued in Haitian culture,” said Martelly. “Some people consider having a college degree more important than having many material possessions.”

Courtesy Photos Martelly said that, until recently, poor First Lady of the Republic of Haiti Sophia Martelly, and President Martelly, parents in Haiti regularly skipped meals in each presented with a gift from Howard University Interim President order to pay for their children’s education, Wayne A.I. Frederick. and typically spend 40 percent of their “I can’t say what he is trying to do on education in Haiti is meager income on school expenses. really working,” Figaro said. “I do recognize that he is trying Martelly acknowledged that the country still has a long way to make it a priority but, until today, [there’s] no result for the to go, and said he has not taken his eyes off of the needs of students and also for the country.” older children and young adults.

Martelly concluded by recognizing Haiti’s enduring “We have built several new public high schools and are relationship with Howard University. Howard students, faculty strengthening the curriculum, and adding more teachers and alumni were among the first to respond to the earthquake training programs.” by organizing relief programs and medical aid. Howard also A number of vocational training programs have also has an annual Alternative Spring Break Program and an been introduced to the country. The president said that his International Medical Rotation in Croix-des-Bouquets and Fortgovernment is working hard to give the country’s college Liberté, Haiti. graduates a reason to stay in Haiti after they complete their Martelly said he was very interested in partnering with study, and to give Haitian students abroad a reason to return Howard administrators to create student exchange programs back to Haiti. between universities in Haiti and the D.C. institution. He Despite a mostly receptive crowd, some still had criticism encouraged the audience to visit Haiti to experience the for the president. Jean Ford Figaro, 35, is a medical doctor who economic renaissance taking place in the first free Black nation. flew from Boston to hear Martelly speak, and said he has yet to “Come and be part of the new and better Haiti that we’re see how the president is helping Haitians. Figaro was born in building,” Martelly said.

Haiti, but moved to the United States to study medicine.

BEYA Continued from A1

“…the dominant theme that emerged was the value and need for diversity in STEM fields.”

and encouragement by not only showcasing the works of people of color but also by teaching others in the field how to become leaders in the physical and virtual world.

In the Leadership and

Announcing Our

2014 Black History Month Poster

BEYA Honorees Dr. Freeman Hrabowski III, Stephanie Hill and Jackie Hrabowski

With T hese H ands

African Americans in Medicine The 28th BEYA STEM 2014 Awards Gala

Posters available FREE to the public at: DC Lottery Offices: 2101 Martin Luther King Jr., Ave, SE 202-645-8000

DCL200 | Black History Month Community Pubs | Afro-American Newspapers | 5.42x10.5 | 4C

Management Skills track of the conference, participants were given new perspectives on how to communicate effectively and also how to increase the performance and relationships of teams that work virtually.

Throughout the various seminars, the dominant theme that emerged was the value and need for diversity in STEM fields.

During the an awards event, honorees were recognized for their contributions to their respective fields. Among the award winners was the conference’s Black Engineer of the Year, Stephanie Hill, the vice president and general manager of Information Systems & Global Solutions for the Lockheed Martin Corporation. Hill encouraged her colleagues to continue to improve themselves, build solid networks and help others.

Conference participants included many men and women in the military, including Lt. Col. Eartha Goban, a professor of Military Science at Bowie State University. She has worked there to urge young participants to consider working as a STEM professional in the military.

“I [went] against the grain of my family and mother and joined the military,” Goban said. “I was supposed to study early childhood education and become a teacher.”

At the Stars and Stripes Gala, which culminated the three-day event, BEYA Conference participants celebrated the lives and achievements of their own.

February 15, 2014 - February 21, 2014, The Afro-American

James Heyward Blackwell school principal

A7

John Mitchell, Jr. newspaper editor William Darnell “Bill” Euille mayor

James Randolph Spencer judge

Elizabeth Hobbs Keckly seamstress

Marcellus Spencer “Boo” Williams, Jr. youth sports mentor

Olivia Ferguson McQueen civil rights pioneer

Mary Hatwood Futrell educator

UNSTOPPABLE They overcame obstacles to pave the way.

History has shown that nothing can stop African-American Virginians from making progress for themselves and their communities.

Dominion and the Library of Virginia are proud to honor the 2014 Strong Men & Women in Virginia History, who overcame obstacles from slavery and segregation to family illiteracy and discrimination.

Their achievements tore down barriers in education, careers and politics to pave the way for tomorrow’s young leaders.

The Strong Men & Women in Virginia History program is sponsored by Dominion and the Library of Virginia to honor the contributions of influential African-American leaders.

HIGHLIGHTS OF 2014 HONOREES

1861

ELIZABETH HOBBS KECKLY, after overcoming slavery to become a seamstress to Washington’s elite, adds the White House to her client list as dressmaker and confidante to Mary Todd Lincoln. Goes on to establish aid organizations for African Americans and writes her memoir, Behind the Scenes.

1884

JOHN MITCHELL, JR., is named editor of the Richmond Planet and overcomes intimidation to pioneer civil rights advocacy. Fights lynching, discrimination and disenfranchisement, and later helps found Mechanics’ Savings Bank to protect African-American financial interests.

1888

JAMES HEYWARD BLACKWELL, after overcoming family illiteracy, achieves the position of school principal and makes high school available to African-American students in Manchester, Va. Later establishes numerous businesses to expand opportunities for his community.

1982

MARCELLUS SPENCER “BOO” WILLIAMS, JR., launches a youth basketball league with only $400 and 46 players.

Overcomes those humble beginnings, growing the league to 200 teams and 2,000 players from across the country. Goes on to develop a state-of-the-art community sports facility in Hampton.

1983

MARY HATWOOD FUTRELL, after overcoming a segregated education to become a teacher, is elected president of the National Education Association — the first of an unprecedented three terms. Earlier helped desegregate Alexandria’s schools.

1986

JAMES RANDOLPH SPENCER is appointed the first African-American federal judge from Virginia, overcoming a long-standing barrier. This caps a distinguished career that began with a Harvard law degree and included service in the Army’s Judge Advocate General’s Corps.

2003

WILLIAM DARNELL “BILL” EUILLE wins election as Alexandria’s first African-American mayor, overcoming centuries of political exclusion. The accountant, business owner and local leader has been involved in many charitable organizations and business organizations, such as the Northern Virginia Urban League.

2013

OLIVIA FERGUSON MCQUEEN receives her high school diploma — 54 years late. As a teenager, she successfully went to court to desegregate Charlottesville schools, which closed in response, denying her a diploma. She overcame by earning bachelor’s and master’s degrees in education.

The program also helps prepare future leaders by providing student scholarships and grants, as well as resource materials for schools. To learn more about the program, its honorees and available resource materials, visit lva.virginia.gov/smw.

SM&W 2014 AfroAmerican_BW.indd 1

2/2/14 9:42 AM

A8

The Afro-American, February 15, 2014 - February 21, 2014

COMMUNITY CONNECTION Northern Virginia Urban League Guild Receives Check

Mother Program in Capetown, South Africa. The Rev. Adora Iris Lee, minister of missions at Lincoln Temple, is currently stationed in Capetown.

A wine and cheese reception will follow.

Reserve seats in advance via Eventbrite: www. eventbrite.com/e/gay-mens-chorus-of-washingtonfree-performance-of-passion-tickets-10501334775.

Banneker-Douglass Museum Hosts Black History Month Activities

At a recent Northern Virginia Urban League The Museum’s celebration continues 3:30 Guild (NVULG) p.m., Feb. 23 with a gospel concert with Mt. meeting, members Moriah AME Church – Honoring our Roots- also of the Xi Alpha in appreciation for Mt. Moriah’s impact in the Lambda chapter establishment of the Museum, and part of the of Alpha Phi 30@30 Contest. Interested visitors can also attend Alpha Fraternity Drop-In Time Capsule workshops, 11 a.m., Feb. 24 presented the to make meaningful messages for future visitors. organization a To make reservations or for more information $3,000 check for contact Jeffrey Greene by Feb. 20 at 410-216-6193 its SAT initiative. or bannederdouglassmuseum@gmail.com.

The check was written from the chapter’s Courtesy Photo Ira Dorsey Paul Patton, left, Chauncey Pointe, Ronal Butler of Alpha’s Education Foundation, Cynthia Dinkins, president Scholarship Endowment Fund. and CEO Northern VA Urban; Jimmi Barnwell, coordinator of SAT Program; Wallace Burnett, president Northern The iSchool and Student Archivists at Maryland VA Urban League Guild.

The NVULG’s are hosting Americana: Archiving Culture in SAT Mentorship Underrepresented Communities, 6-8:30 p.m., Feb. provides funds to 24 in the special events room, McKeldin Library, University help 100 minority students in grades 10-12 to take the SAT. of Maryland. Panelists include Michael Pahn, interim head archivist at the National Museum of the American The Gay Men’s Chorus of Washington D.C. will present a Indian’s Archive Center and free concert, PASSION, 7:30 p.m., Feb. 22, at Lincoln Temple The Ebenezer A.M.E. Church Poetry Ministry is hosting Jennifer Morris, archivist at United Church of Christ, an historic church at 11th & R Streets its annual Black History Month Poetry and Praise Open the Anacostia Community in Northwest Washington, D.C. Mic, 6-8:30 p.m., Feb. 21. This year’s event will feature the Museum. The Distinguished PASSION features works that have touched the hearts and Anointed P.E.N.S., and the Malcolm X Drummers. Selections Archival Alumni Award stirred passions of generations of listeners, a wide-range of will be presented to Dr. Joni will also be offered by featured psalmist, Miriam Wright as music—from Dolly Parton to songs from “Miss Saigon” and Jones, executive director of well as the Royal Priesthood of the Ebenezer Liturgical Dance “La Traviata.” the Maryland Commission on Ministry.

Free-will donations will be accepted to benefit The African American History and Sign-up closes at 7:30 p.m. For more information call (301) Courtesy Photo Bridgeman Center in Soweto, South Africa and the Mother-toCulture.

265-8254 or email poetry@ebenezerame.org Dr. Joni Jones

‘Archiving Culture in Underrepresented Communities’

Poetry and Praise at Ebenezer AME

Gay Men’s Chorus of Washington Perform PASSION Encore

Presidents’ day

3O%-75% OFF STOREWIDE

Plus, taKe an † eXtra 1o%-2o% off

WitH your MaCy’s Card or Pass †eXClusions aPPly; see Pass.

2 lid s -va

4 /17/1 /11-2

NCE ) AR A CLE R BUYS & SALE & SUPE L L A LS S ON ECIA s VINGCEPT SP & kid lry, A S her n jewe X A , E R ( T ! iM E X AREL OFF rh uiT shiO el fOne & fa Men’s s Ra 1O% APP r a p E x T cs es; e fi e ap anc ranc TiMaT TeMs rOni , rugs, lear & clea lse, in hOMe i s/elecT or coveringsandise, c & ale ll sale es, iMpuhOes & ecTric ttresses, floboys merch ed depts., a s cT s l , sele % OFF as, dress elecT shes & e furniture, ms, Dallas Cowelected licenpass/coupon. s S T 5 y, er & kid rders, s avings c i E a 1 T & D IC u R a e s s a P h , t h T r him, ses, special eod with any Ds TO REDUCED !

ExTR cOaTs rTcOa rance w eals of a ters, D hoes fo O E & sp & cleaDV), Doorbuses, athletic sevious purchot be combinGS % APPLIE & mORceive s e SAVIN ale to re raT es (E ld, pr RTs granc . Cann sepa all sveryday Valuosmetics/fraa, Nike on Fiet macys.com count. EXTRA lEs AlEmber, I agreenderstand c E r ber. I u o 62297 onics, c , New E s, sA bile nu differ a acy’s a cludes: Also ex’s store electtrrunk shows lusions mayning a new M OupOnfrom my myo’s to this numext HELP tcypolicy T c a c l.

PN ac men s, jewelry ervices. Ex xcept ope gET texting C r from M to cance s.com/priv s rd re gift ca l purchases, r credit offe 62297 TaOy apply. By mated dialeP to 62297olicy at macy o to O ia p m t u c spe a discoun ” TO data rates ted by an a ase. Text STelp Privacy extr XT “cpn sg & urch enera bileh TE msgs/wk. Mmessages g to make a cpys.com/mo 3 d t a e x x ir a m M keting te ot requ ions at /14 mar onsent is n s & condit -2 /17 that c help. Term 2 /11 for alid wid

e ite

m

ff O 2O A R EXT re sto

%

Hurry in for tHe valentine’s day gifts tHey’ll love!

Plus, it’s our Biggest deniM event of tHe season!

Free online shipping every day + extra 1o%-2o% oFF!

free shipping with $99 purchase. use promo code: PRES for extra savings; offer valid 2/11-2/17/2014. exclusions apply; see macys.com for details.

e l ec

s/ tric

ch e wat

s -v

presidenTs’ day sale prices in effecT 2/11-2/17/2014. “Of the season” refers to Macy’s spring season from february 1 to april 30, 2014; prices may be lowered at part of a clearance.

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.

N4010138A.indd 1

2/6/14 10:29 AM

February 15, 2014 - February 21, 2014, The Afro-American

A9

COMMENTARY

Black History Month 2014: “Civil Rights in America”

To mark the 50th anniversary of the 1964 Civil Rights Act, Dr. Carter G. Woodson’s Association for the Study of African Life and History has chosen “Civil Rights in America” as its overarching theme for Black History Month 2014.

At a time when voter suppression, gerrymandered congressional districts and Senate filibusters continue to thwart the civic will of the American people, a renewed focus upon our civil rights Congressman history is both timely and Elijah E. profound.

Cummings During Black History Month, we do well to recall and applaud the struggles, sacrifices and successes of civil rights heroes like Frederick Douglas, W.E.B. Du Bois, Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr., and Fanny Lou Hamer.

Yet, we also should focus sharply upon the economic elements of our civil rights struggles—and especially upon the union leaders who did so much to foster the African-American middle class of our time.

Consider, for example, the legacy of A. Philip Randolph and his lifetime of commitment to the proposition that AfricanAmericans, by organizing and joining unions, could build the economic foundation for full participation in this society.

Randolph’s 12-year struggle to sustain the Brotherhood of Sleeping Car Porters in its fight to gain recognition, first by the Pullman Company and ultimately by the AFL-CIO, was a historic achievement in itself.

Later, during the early 1940s, his organization of 100,000 Americans expressed determination to march on Washington and demand an end to segregation, and convinced President Franklin Roosevelt to issue Executive Order 8802, which desegregated America’s defense industries.

My own family was among the Americans of color who benefitted from that expansion of opportunity.

Before my parents had a union to stand by them, they were forced to work as share croppers for 15 cents an hour near Manning, S.C. They moved to South Baltimore in the hope

of forging a better life for their family.

Here, my father worked as a laborer at Davison Chemical Company. Although his work life was not free from prejudice or pain, his membership in the Chemical Workers’ Union assured his family of a dollar an hour, overtime pay and a health care plan.

That same union card helped my parents make the down payment on the home where my mother lives to this day, and allowed their children to attend the better schools that would transform our lives.

During my early teenage years, Randolph helped convince President Truman to end segregation in our armed forces and federal civil service jobs. In 1963, he was a major force in creating the March on Washington for Jobs and Freedom where an outpouring of 250,000 Americans laid the foundation for the Civil Rights Act of 1964.

Today, in large part because of civil rights leaders such as Randolph, African American unionized workers earn, on average, $8,000 more per year than workers who are without a union. Union families are significantly more likely to enjoy health insurance coverage, defined-benefit pensions and paid personal leave.

We should not minimize the contributions of organized labor to civil rights. Political empowerment and economic opportunity are two sides of the same coin.

This year begins the sixth decade since Americans gathered at the Lincoln Memorial for the 1963 March on Washington.

Yet, more than 50 years after that historic march, we still are marching for both freedom and jobs.

To paraphrase Dr. King: we cannot be satisfied while any American cannot vote; nor can we be satisfied when far too many Americans believe that they have no reason to vote.

Dr. Anthony Jones has been an AIDS Specialist for more than 15 years. During that time he has become increasingly discouraged as he watched the AIDS epidemic in the San Francisco Bay Area grow among its African-American community.

“We’re really at a crossroads with HIV in the Black community,” said Jones. “We have the knowledge and the tools to dramatically impact the spread of HIV and extremely effective medications that can fully suppress the virus. People can have a normal life expectancy. But a lack of understanding about perceived risk, lack of access to care, fear and stigma are some of the greatest barriers to improving outcomes among my patients with HIV disease.”

The statistics support Jones’s perception of the disease.

HIV has disproportionately affected Black Americans since the beginning of the epidemic, a disparity which continues now.

There are currently more than 1.1 million people living with HIV/AIDS in the United States, including more than 510,000 Black Americans. Although Black Americans represent only 12 percent of the U.S. population, they accounted for 44 percent of new HIV infections in 2010, and an estimated 44 percent of those living with HIV in 2009.

The rate of new HIV infections among Blacks was nearly

eight times that of Whites and more than twice that of Latinos in 2010. The rate for Black men was the highest of any group, more than twice that of Latino men. African-American communities continue to experience higher rates of other sexually transmitted infections (STIs) compared with other racial/ethnic communities in the United States. Having an STI can significantly increase the chance of getting or transmitting HIV. The AIDS epidemic has had its most significant impact on Black women, who have the third highest rate of infection overall and the highest rate of HIV infection among female groups. Black women account for the largest share of new HIV infections, and the incidence rate is 20 times the rate among White women.

Like other experts, Jones believes that more needs to be done to reach out to the African-American community, especially young gay Black men. Along with most physicians and experts in the field treating AIDS, he believes that outreach efforts have decreased significantly since the pattern of infection began increasingly involving the African-American community. More than 25 percent of Blacks ages 18 to 64 have never been tested for HIV. Approximately one in five Blacks living with HIV does not know they are infected. Diagnosis late in the course of HIV infection is common, which results in missed opportunities to get early medical care and prevent

transmission to others.

The National Medical Association and its physician membership are committed to changing the conversation around HIV within the Black community. As AfricanAmericans, we must do more to reduce the impact that this disease has on our community. The message must be that while treatment options have improved the quality of life for people living with HIV/AIDS, we still need to be diligent with safe sex, regular testing and aggressive treatment when a diagnosis is made.

HIV prevention projects for community-based organizations must be expanded to provide effective HIV prevention services to gay, bisexual, and transgender youth of color and their partners. Support and technical assistance to health departments and community-based organizations should be encouraged to deliver effective prevention interventions for African Americans. Our community, working together, must create an environment where living comfortably with AIDS is better than any alternative.

With the Super Bowl over, the fantasy football season has ended. But it turns out there is a fantasy league for economists. So, sorry to those of you with Paul Krugman on your team, but I am siding with Joseph Stiglitz in his argument that income inequality is slowing the recovery.

Both Stiglitz and Krugman are Nobel laureates in economics. Both agree that inequality hurts the William Sprigs economy in the long run, Special to the AFRO because in a market-based economy, high levels of income inequality lead to too many talented and smart poor children being prevented by low income from investments in schooling, enriching life experiences and opportunities to become the leaders we need to grow as a nation.

Where Stiglitz and Krugman disagree is on how inequality shapes the market in the present. Krugman argues against the idea that income growth that favors the rich hurts the demand for goods and services that make employers hire more people, because the rich save rather than consume. Krugman points

to the evidence showing that despite rising income inequality, aggregate consumption has been quite healthy.

But, while consumption by the rich is helping the sale of goods and services and keeping the Gross Domestic Product (the value of all goods and services produced in the country) growing, a rich person spending means a poor person is not spending. Stiglitz believes that inequality is slowing the current recovery.

Economists Steven Fazzari and Barry Cynamon point out that consumption by the top 1 percent has grown by 17 percent since 2009 when the “recovery” began, but just 1 percent for the bottom 95 percent. Businesses know that spending patterns are different, as a New York Times article explained this week.

Darden, a chain of sit-down restaurants, grew thanks to its middle-class restaurants, Olive Garden and Red Lobster.

Those brands now sag in sales, while their upscale brand, The Capital Grille, is growing fast. But it is more than restaurants that differ. If more is spent at The Capital Grille than Red Lobster, Kruger argues, then presumably the wages and number of workers Darden would allocate to Red Lobster would fall but rise at The Capital Grille, so employment and income for the bottom 95 percent also would grow.

But something else happens with inequality: a rising share of all consumption takes place at the top. There are two problems when a high share of consumption is concentrated at the top.

First, for things like housing and education, where the rich

consume the bulk of private consumption, that trend tilts prices toward their income levels. Just as Darden chases the dollars by changing its mix of restaurants, home builders will chase the dollars and tastes of the rich in building homes.

Elite institutions favored by the rich, like Harvard and Stanford, will raise tuition to capture the ability and willingness to pay of the rich, and in turn use those resources to bid for the best faculties in business and engineering. That ups the ante for those in the middle who want to become homeowners or send their children to college.

Fazzari and Cynamon document that indeed the middle class kept up with those rising prices by borrowing heavily— too heavily, as it led to a collapse in middle-class demand when debt levels rose too high. The housing collapse froze middleclass homeowners, but families have continued to chase quality education and increase student loan debt.

Also, middle-class incomes lead to purchases of things that lead to more jobs, including automobiles. Increase income at the top instead leads to production of items with higher profit margins and prices—luxury automobiles and high-end appliances, not more cars and more appliances. The collapse of incomes in the middle mean that consumption isn’t translating into more people being hired, just higher profits and higher prices for luxury items.

Confronted by unacceptable levels of unemployment, inequality and voter suppression, far too many of our fellow Americans remain trapped by the most crippling segregation of all: the segregation from hope as a result of poverty.

President Obama has challenged each of us to join him in overcoming this “defining challenge of our time—the dangerous and growing inequality and lack of upward mobility that has jeopardized middle-class America’s basic bargain: that if you work hard, you have a chance to get ahead.”

Even as we celebrate our history, we would do well to act on Randolph’s legacy and advice.

Our nation’s civil rights struggles are not limited to our history. Now, we are the Americans who must organize, mobilize and fight the good fight.

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

Additional AIDS Outreach Needed in African-American Communities Michael A. LeNoir, M.D.

Michael A. LeNoir, M.D. is president of the National Medical Association, the nation’s oldest and largest medical association, representing the interests of more than 35,000 African-American physicians and their patients.

Why Inequality Matters: Or, Why Joseph Stiglitz Hits it and Paul Krugman Misses

William Spriggs serves as chief economist to the AFL-CIO, and is a professor and former Chair of the Department of Economics at Howard University.

A10

The Afro-American, February 15, 2014 - February 21, 2014

“I’ve got a plan to help me stay healthy and keep me from going broke if I have a serious accident.”

—CALVIN

Thanks to President Obama’s health law, DC Health Link offers affordable health coverage to DC. Compare, shop and choose the health plan that’s right for you.

DCHealthLink.com or call 855-532-LINK

February 15, 2014 - February 21, 2014, The Afro-American

By Shari L. McCoy The Most Worshipful Prince Hall Grand Lodge and the Georgiana Thomas Grand Chapter, Order of the Eastern Star, PHA, in

partnership with the Prince Hall Freemason and Eastern Star Charitable Foundation held its 2nd Annual D.C. Prince Hall Masonic Classic pitting Howard University Bisons against the North Carolina Central Eagles, Feb 1, at Howard University Burr Gymnasium. A reception was held prior to the start of the Women’s

Grand Worthy Patron Barbara E. Murray presents check to the AFRO’s Edgar Brookins as Worthy Matron Shari McCoy looks on

Grand Worthy Matron Barbara E. Murray and husband Past Grand Master, J. Raymond Murray with the Lady Bison mascot at the pre-reception Photos by Stephen L. Jacobs

game. The D.C. Prince Hall Masonic Classic is one of the signature charitable activities of the Most Worshipful Grand Master John T. Doles Sr., awarding two $5,000 DC Masonic family award scholarships to Howard University students Arianna Davis and DeAndre Prince. Grand Worthy Matron Barbara E. Murray and Grand Worthy

B1

Post game reception: Associate Grand Conductress

Patron Thomas L. Eunice J. Dingle (D.C.), Grand Master Melvin M. Thorpe Coleman were in (Md.), Grand Worthy Matron Carol D. Simon (Md.), attendance along Associate Grand Matron Venecia C. Bessellieu (D.C.), with the Most Grand Worthy Matron Barbara E. Murray (D.C.), Associate Worshipful Grand Grand Patron Albert Pope (D.C.), Grand Master John T. Master Melvin M. Dole Sr. (D.C.), Grand Worthy Patron Thomas L. Coleman Thorpe and Grand (D.C.), Deputy Grand Master Lee A. Worthy Matron Taylor Jr. (Md.) Tracy I. Brown Grand Carol S. Simon of Associate Matron (Md.) and District the Jurisdiction of Deputy Grand Maryland and Most Associate Matron Sherri J. Worshipful Grand Offer Master Milton “Toby Fitch” from the jurisdiction of North Carolina. Prior to the Masonic Classic, the Most Worshipful Prince Hall Grand Lodge and the Georgiana Thomas Grand Chapter, Order of the Eastern Star, PHA, donated $4,000 to the Washington Afro American Newspaper for its outstanding work in the community and being a stalwart in the journalism field telling the story of African Georgiana Thomas Grand Chapter’s Americans.

Tonya Fadis poses with Lady Bison at pre-game reception

Past Matron Brenda S. Young of Electa Chapter #6 sings the National Anthem at the start of the game

Grand Worthy Patron Thomas L. Coleman, Grand Worthy Matron Barbara E. Murray and Grand Master John T. Doles Sr. during the post game activities

RNC Chairman Reince Priebus speaks to the guests

Howard University Women’s Coach Tennille S. Adams, Grand Worthy Matron Barbara E. Murray, Grand Master John T. Doles Sr. and Grand Worthy Patron Thomas L. Coleman are all smiles with Lady Bison during the pre-game reception

Grand Master John T. Doles Sr. and Howard University Athletics Director Louis “Skip” Perkins during pre-game reception

The Masonic Family awarding scholarships: William Slade, Grand Master Melvin M. Thorpe (Prince Hall Grand Lodge of Maryland); Ms. Prince, mother of DeAndre Price; scholarship recipient DeAndre Price; Grand Master John T. Doles Sr. (Prince Hall Grand Lodge of Washington, DC); Ms. Davis, mother of Arianna Davis; scholarship recipient Arianna Davis; Grand Worthy Patron Thomas L. Coleman; Grand Worthy Matron Barbara E. Murray, and Foundation Vice President Kelli J. McCoy-Burkett

Masonic Classic executive committee shown with Lady Bison are Chairman Thomas L. Coleman (Ionic Lodge #17), Vice Chairman Dr. Marjay Anderson (Mattie R. Griffin Chapter #16), Worthy Matron Juanita Griffin Zani (Mattie R. Chapter #16), James Parker (Ionic Lodge #17), Past Matron Kelli J. McCoy-Burkett (Electa Chapter #6), Associate Grand Matron Venecia C. Besselieu (Prince Hall Chapter #5), Worthy Matron Shari L. McCoy (Electa Chapter #6)

The Republican National Committee, led by its chairman, Reince Priebus, hosted the 2nd Annual Black Republican Trailblazers Awards Luncheon, Feb 4, at the historic Howard Theatre in Northwest Washington, D.C. Under the theme, “Honoring Our Past and Building the Future,” three trailblazers were given Special Achievement Awards for their sustained and unwavering service to this nation: William C. Brooks, former assistant Secretary of Labor, 1989-1993; Judge Sara J. Harper, Ohio 8th District Court of Appeals, 1990-1996 and Dr. Louis W. Sullivan, former Secretary of Health and Human Services, 1989-1993. Chairman Priebus, after making remarks, introduced the keynote speaker, Commissioner Michael Williams. Musical performances were provided by Patrick Lundy and the Ministers of Music who led both the National Anthem and “Lift Every Voice and Sing” which was preceded by the Pledge of Allegiance. Kristal Quarker Hartsfield and Joseph Phillips were the luncheon hosts. Raynard Jackson, Republican Hosts: Kristal Quarker Hartsfield, strategist and author of Tara Walls, senior advisor, RNC National the newly released RNC and Raynard Jackson, Director for book: “Writing RNC political strategist and African American Wrongs: My Internet radio host Strategic Political Journey in Black and Initiatives and White” helped Joseph Phillips, organize the actor, writer and luncheon. spokesman

Walter Faggett, W. Ronald Evans, Robert Brown and Dr. Ada Fisher

Guests circling around former GOP Rep. West

Sharon Day, co-chair, RNC and Ray Jones

Hilary Shelton, State NAACP

Invocation by Bishop Ira Combs, Greater Bible Way Temple Church, Jackson, Miss.

Roland Martin, anchor, TV One and the keynote speaker, Commissioner Michael L. Williams, Texas Education Commission

Black Republican Trailblazer Awards Honorees: Williams Brooks, Dr. Louis Sullivan and Judge Sara Harper with RNC Chairman, Reince Priebus

Carmen Johnson, housing chair, State NAACP; Jacques Ross, Charles Lollar and his wife, Rosha

Raynard Jackson with Trina Braxton (of the Braxton sisters) and her husband

TV One Anchor, Roland Martin; Angela Harris, author of “Mommy What Is A CEO?” and Edgar Brookins, Afro American Newspaper Photos by Rob Roberts

B2

The Afro-American, February 15, 2014 - February 21, 2014

7 Facts About the Cove Point LNG Project Dominion’s proposal to add export capability to its Cove Point Liquefied Natural Gas facility in Calvert County will be Southern Maryland’s largest private investment in at least a generation. So it’s no surprise the project has received broad and strong support. Still, we believe we have a responsibility to make sure everyone knows the facts about this project.

1

The project will deliver substantial and far-reaching economic benefits.

2

The project’s economic benefits include strong job growth.

3

By using clean-burning natural gas, the project will protect the environment.

4

Dominion is continuing a 40-year record as a trusted neighbor.

5

We’ve done our homework, and made it public.

6

We’re designing to have the smallest local impact possible.

7

The facility will be built somewhere. Calvert County should be able to enjoy its benefits.

Calvert County will initially receive more than $40 million in new revenue each year from the project. That’s in addition to the $15 million being paid now. To put it in perspective, that’s almost 15% of the county’s current $274 million operating budget.

This new revenue could be used for tax relief; sewer, water, recreation or road improvements; support for schools; aid to senior citizens; or any combination of worthy projects.

3,000 construction jobs will be created over the course of the project. Most of those are expected to go to local residents.

Another 75 high-paying permanent positions will also be created. And that’s not to mention the opportunities for local businesses to participate in the project, as well as the spending increases other local businesses will enjoy.

The facility’s new equipment will use natural gas, the cleanest-burning fossil fuel. It meets the most stringent environmental limits to protect air quality. It has been carefully designed to optimize efficiency while minimizing impacts. And it will also be zero-discharge—no water used will disturb the bay.

In all, Dominion has provided more than $2.3 million in charitable grants and donations in Maryland since 2002. One example is the Dominion Reef at the Gooses—one of the largest efforts to restore the Chesapeake Bay’s oyster population. Beyond that, Dominion led an initiative to save the largest freshwater marsh on the bay’s western shore when it was damaged by a storm.

And for nearly four decades, the facility’s daily operations have gone largely—and pleasantly—unnoticed.

Over the past 20 months, Dominion has filed more than 20,000 pages of documents as part of the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission’s review of the project. And that’s just one of about 50 federal, state and local government permits and approvals needed. As a result, the project is being given a thorough review to minimize potential impacts on the bay and other water resources, residential areas, wildlife, vegetation, air, soil, noise, public safety, traffic and visual quality.

The LNG facility will be built entirely within the existing fenced industrial area. The surrounding 800 acres Dominion owns will remain a woodlands and wetlands preserve. The heat generated by the natural gas-fired turbines used in the liquefaction process will be reclaimed to generate clean electricity for the facility. A sound wall to shield neighbors from noise will be concealed by 350 feet of tall trees. And road improvements and other initiatives will minimize traffic disruptions.

If this project does not go forward, our customers may choose to either export gas from other competing projects in the United States, or import gas from the Middle East, Russia or other parts of the world. In the end, global demand will be met. But without this project, Southern Maryland will get none of the benefits.

Despite these facts, we know some people will still have questions. And we’re committed to answering each and every one.

So far we’ve held 39 meetings with local residents, and have many more planned. The government approval process is open, and we encourage our neighbors to participate. Our website, dom.com (keyword: Cove Point), offers even more background about this project, a regularly updated list of FAQs and a place to ask questions and sign up for our e-newsletter. You can also follow us on Facebook and Twitter.

We’ve been neighbors for four decades. And we believe we’ve been good neighbors. Our goal is to continue working together to improve Calvert County and all of Southern Maryland. We firmly believe the plans we have for Cove Point will do just that.

Thank you.

To learn more visit dom.com/covepoint

@Dom_CovePoint

February 15, 2014 - February 21, 2014, The Afro-American

B3

ARTS & CULTURE

Movie Review: “About Last Night”

By Dwight Brown NNPA Film Critic “All’s fair in love and war”—but these two couples are taking that too far. They can’t stop loving, and can’t stop bickering. Will they ever learn how to be content? Watching their journey of self-discovery may make you chuckle.

Bernie (Kevin Hart, the hardest working man in show business) and Danny (Michael Ealy) work at a restaurant supply company in downtown L.A. Bernie is dating the very turbulent Joan (Regina Hall, “The Best Man Holiday”).

One night in a bar, Bernie and Joan coax Danny into meeting Debbie (Joy Bryant, “Antwone Fisher,” TV series “Parenthood”), a very successful executive. Initially, the four hit it off, kind of like Lucy, Desi, Fred and Ethel. But the dynamics of their loving relationships and friendships take a roller coaster ride that leaves them either singing each other’s praises or going for each other’s throats.

If the setup and storyline feel unoriginal, you’re on to something. The unimaginative script by screenwriter Leslye Headland (TV’s “Terriers” and the movie “Bachelorette”) is drafting off the very distant fumes of a 1986 movie of the same name directed by Ed Zwick, which starred Rob Lowe, Demi Moore and James Belushi. In fact, the original film’s screenwriter, Tim Kazurinsky (“Saturday Night Live”) receives a co-writing credit on this new version. Both films are screen adaptations of the play, “Sexual Perversity in Chicago” by David Mamet. So what’s the big difference? On this go-round, producer William Packer, who is riding high on the success of urban-themed movies like “Stomp the Yard,” “Think Like a Man” and the very recent “Ride Along,” has left his mark on this “hipper” version.

Bernie and Joan’s tempestuous relationship proves too fiery and they break up. Afterward, when they meet, they verbally abuse each other, like hopeless lovers who can’t let go. Says Joan of Bernie’s new girlfriend, “If the b— was any dumber I’d have to water her!” Debbie moves in with Danny, and for a hot

Kevin Hart and Michael Ealy in About Last Night minute they are the ideal couple. But looks are deceiving, and love lives can be very complicated. Cue Cupid and his bow and arrows.

Director Steve Pink honed his skills, or lack thereof, directing TV sitcoms (“Children’s Hospital,” “New Girl”). He does have one wide-release feature film under his belt, but the over-the-top clunker “Hot Tub Time Machine” is nothing to brag about. He puts the camera in the right place, lets his cast go at it, but doesn’t display much more talent than that. Films aren’t sitcoms; they are far more expansive and offer perfect opportunities to smoothly connect the dots. Yet, his clumsy scenes lack flow or imagination. For example, at one point, Danny barges in on Bernie and Joan while they are having sex.

She’s on top, wearing a chicken mask, and clucking like she is laying an egg. It is strained humor, with a smidgen of potential, and his direction doesn’t take it anywhere.

Watching this film would be painful if it weren’t for the funny dialogue and the cast. The one-liners come fast and furious. At a party, Joan continues her rant on Bernie’s new girlfriend, dismissing her existence: “You are making a brief cameo in a very tragic porno.” Hall’s frenzied performance almost saves the day—she is hysterical. Bryant has the right blend of maturity and sophistication. Ealy, as the insecure middle-class boyfriend afraid to be a part of his lover’s uppity world, oozes leading man charm.

Yes, we all know Kevin Hart is so damn funny he could milk a laugh out of a gravestone. The question isn’t whether he can make you chuckle—he can, as in the Halloween party scene where he is dressed up as a Chippendale dancer. The real question is whether he is ruining his brand by being in so many movies. This is the third film in which he appeared to be released in the last 60 days (“Grudge Match,” “Ride Along”).

Will his fans clamor for more or tire of his shtick? That’s an uncertainty his manager, agent and publicist should ponder behind closed doors. He’ll either remain that silly friend you can’t wait to see again, or become that too-frequent houseguest that turns you off. Pundits may start to yawn, but it’s a good bet his fans will hitch a ride on his comedy train for some time to come.

The soundtrack features songs by John Legend and Bruno Mars, but none really enhance the proceedings. Ditto Marcus Miller’s musical score. The production design, (John Gary Steele), costumes (Anne Foley) and cinematography (Michael Barrett) are decent, nothing more.

As Valentine’s Day approaches, romantic comedies will vie for audiences in need of a love tap. Will “About Last Night” do the trick? Between the funny, graphic-language banter and animated performances there is a sweetness about relationships present that is ultimately touching, even if the storyline and direction leave much to be desired.

Juju and Griots Salute Jayne Cortez, Amiri Baraka

By Herb Boyd Special to the NNPA A gathering of renowned poets envisioned by the late Amiri Baraka arrived in a profusion of words and memory on Feb. 4 at New York University’s Global Center for Academic and Spiritual Life.

The event was originally conceived by Baraka in collaboration with Manthia (Photo by Herb Boyd) Diawara, the director of the From left to right (standing): Arthur Phister, Haki Institute of Afro-American Madhubuti,Askia Toure,Harvin, Marvin X, and Henry Affairs, as a tribute to Jayne Grimes; Sitting: Quincy Troupe, Ted Wilson, Rashididah Cortez, who joined the Ismaili,Sandra Esteves ancestors a little more than a year ago.

In his opening remarks Diawara recounted the plan, which largely fell to poet/scholar Rashidah Ismaili to assemble. Ismaili, who moderated the program, observed that rounding up such a cast of wordsmiths could not have been done without Baraka’s tireless efforts, and his heavy spirit was dutifully linked with Cortez.

“They were like bookends to me,” Ismaili said of Cortez and Baraka, both of whom she knew for years. Each poet either recalled the iconic pair separately or in tandem during their moments before a full room of spectators, including such notables as Louise Meriwether, Woodie King Jr., Denardo Coleman, Brenda Green, Jessica Care Moore, and Mel Edwards.

Sandra Maria Esteves paid tribute to Cortez by reciting her poem “Drums,” and she read the poem with the same intensity and riveting incantations that characterized a Cortez performance, particularly when she appeared with the Firespitters ensemble.

While Esteves centered her attention on Cortez, Askia Toure weighed in with his homage to Baraka, tracing their time together back to Umbra magazine and the nascent hours of the Black Arts Movement. Toure’s Kam’s Kapsules: cadence was perfectly pitched for such words as “prime

minister of hip,” and “pain into pageantry,” all of which were

By Kam Williams

Endless Love (PG-13 for sexuality, profanity, partying and partial nudity) Remake of the romance drama about the starcrossed love affair between teens (Gabriella Wilde and Alex Pettyfer) from opposite sides of the tracks.

With Bruce Greenwood, Joely Richardson, Robert Patrick, Emma Rigby and Dayo Okeniyi.

Bayard Rustin James Baldwin

& Freedom Fighters and Friends

Photograph by Stephen Somerstein

About Last Night (PG-13 for profanity, sexuality and brief drug use) A modern reimagining of the 1986 romantic comedy based on “Sexual Perversity in Chicago,” the David Mamet play following two couples (Kevin Hart and Regina Hall, and Michael Ealy and Joy Bryant) whose relationships are put to the test as they venture from the bar to the bedroom.

With Paula Patton, Christopher McDonald and Terrell Owens.

clearly in honor of his fallen comrade.

The “sonic apocalypse” of Toure’s tour de force was just the carpet Marvin X needed for his fond and sometimes hilarious reflections of nights and days with Baraka. “I knew Amiri for more than 40 years,” he said, “but I only met Jayne once.” He regaled the audience with the exchanges between him and Baraka, and the laughter they shared was vividly recalled.

Ted Wilson took the stage and paused below an image of Cortez and Baraka projected on a screen.

“In the middle, in the middle, I, we, you exist because of them,” he said, pointing to the enlarged image. He read a poignant letter from Jimmy Garrett, who remembered how Cortez recruited him into the Civil Rights Movement, but never mentioned her poetic prowess. Then Wilson turned the beat around insisting that we “let the music play,” which Marvin X had anticipated with bassist Henry Grimes accompanying him.

Ras Baraka, Amiri’s son, was invited to share a few words. He read with all the fiery conviction of Cortez and his father, delivering so much passion that his final stanzas came with the same admonition he said about the poets’ words: “all you can do is just sit back and dig it.”

Conjuring his New Orleans roots, Arthur Pfister was as entertaining as he was insightful, recreating a “second line” funeral dirge with a trumpeter performing “A Closer Walk with Thee,” and then a rambling “Down by the Riverside.” His explosion of metaphors about the differing kinds of poets and poetry was engaging and his fans will be glad to know that his new book, My Name is New Orleans, contains more of the same.

After singling out a few dignitaries, including his daughter Mariama, Haki Madhubuti reminisced about Cortez and Baraka, both of whom he has celebrated in his books of poetry. But he registered most rewardingly with his call and response with the audience, who answered each of his invocations with “Art.” (See more on afro.com)

Monday February 24 7:00 PM Reception to follow

Arena Stage 1101 6th Street SW, Washington, DC (Waterfront Metro) DC COMMISSION ON THE ARTS & HUMANITIES and DC BLACK HISTORY CELEBRATION COMMITTEE

present

A multimedia theatrical event featuring

RSVP at dcarts.dc.gov 202-724-5613 FREE EVENT

Charles Reese, Theodore Snead, Solomon Howard, Princess Mhoon Cooper & Dominique Atwood, Reverb, Synchronicity, & DC Poet Laureate Dolores Kendrick

starts friday, february 14

CHeCK LOCaL ListiNGs fOr tHeaters aNd sHOWtiMes

B4

The Afro-American, February 15, 2014 - February 21, 2014

19 D.C. Friendship Collegiate Academy Students Sign College Scholarships Friendship Public Charter School is proud to announce that 19 students at Friendship Collegiate Academy today signed athletic scholarships.

In the past Friendship students have signed with Columbia, Florida State, Maryland, Pittsburgh, Howard, and Temple University.

“These young men are being rewarded for hard work in the classroom and on the football field. On behalf of the board of trustees and our teachers, we are that confident they will carry on Friendship’s tradition of being student athletes,” said Donald Hense, chairman of Friendship Public Charter School. “We wish them every success in their journey through college.”

The students signed with the following colleges and universities (as of 10 p.m. Feb. 4):

Jalen Tabor - University of Florida Foussenie Traore – SUNY Albany Jonathan Haden – University of Arizona DaeJuan Funderburk – University of West Virginia Damari Whitaker – Morgan State University

Marquese Meadow – Morgan State University Malik Harris – Delaware State University Tyron McDade – Towson University Kelvit Barrett – West Virginia State University Fahim Muhammad – Elizabeth City State University Deandre Parker – Lincoln University Robert Johnson – Lincoln University Jamal Kingsberry – Lincoln University Chigozie Onyewere – Iowa Western Devonta Lee – Lincoln University/ American International College Marcus Hodges – Cheyney University Wesley Davis – Cheyney University Photos by Bernie Dare

Foussenie Traore

Dushon Davis – Shaw University Kenneth McDaniel – Shaw University/Lincoln University Friendship’s mission is to provide a world-class education that motivates students to achieve high academic standards, enjoy learning and develop as ethical, literate, well-rounded and self-sufficient citizens who contribute actively to their communities.

The graduation rate at Friendship Collegiate Academy is 95 percent – 37 percent higher than the graduation rate for D.C.’s traditional public high schools. One hundred percent of the graduating class is accepted to college. Since 2005, Friendship students have earned over 3,500 college Jalen Tabor credits in 21 different college courses.

Friendship Collegiate Academy PCS is a college preparatory high school serving students in grades nine through 12.

Challenging and relevant, the school’s comprehensive curriculum prepares students for college and the world of work in a global economy.

Parent Education Facilitator Position

Program for Agreement and Cooperation in Contested Custody Cases of the Family Court of the Superior Court of the District of Columbia The Family Court of the Superior Court of the District of Columbia is seeking a Parent Education Facilitator to work in the Program for Agreement and Cooperation in Contested Custody Cases (the “PAC” program). The PAC program requires a facilitator to teach adult classes which take place on alternate Saturday mornings throughout the year. The classes are designed to educate parents about the harm that acrimonious conflict between them causes their children and to expose them to methods to begin to communicate positively and respectfully to resolve their differences. The children will participate in age appropriate educational programming that will occur simultaneously with the adult classes. A facilitator for the adult education class is needed. The adult class will be team-taught by two facilitators and each class will be 3.5 hours with one 15 minute break. Applicants should have a minimum of a master’s degree in the field of mental health or education. Experience working with diverse populations, working with adults and children in group settings and a Ph.D. is preferred. The facilitator receives a stipend of $325.00 per class.

To apply, please fax resume to 202-879-9457, attention: Kitty Huggins or apply via email to hugginsk@dcsc.gov .

This position will remain open until filled.

Celebrating the 75th Anniversary of Marian Anderson’s Historic 1939 Concert The National Gallery of Art continues its observance of National African American History Month, 6:30 p.m., Feb. 23, when soprano Louise Toppin and Leon Bates, one of America’s leading pianists, perform a program of spirituals and other music by African-American composers Courtesy photo in commemoration of the famous recital by Marian Louise Toppin Anderson on the steps of the Lincoln Memorial in 1939.

The Steinway grand piano that was used in that historic concert by Marian Anderson 75 years ago will be used. The National Gallery of Art owns the piano; it is heard regularly in concerts in the East Building Auditorium.

Lunch is available in the Garden Café. Doors open at 6 p.m. First come; first seated! The entrance at 6th Street and Constitution Avenue NW remains open on Sunday until 6:30 p.m.

Families with small children may be asked to sit in designated areas. Please note that late entry or reentry of the West Building after 6:30 p.m. is not permitted. For further information, call (202) 842-6941.

75 Students from 62 HBCUs Named 2014 All-Stars

The White House Initiative on Historically Black Colleges and Universities (WHIHBCU) has announced its first class of HBCU All-Stars, recognizing 75 undergraduate, graduate and professional students for their accomplishments in academics, leadership and civic engagement. Currently enrolled at 62 HBCUs, the All-Stars were selected from 445 students who submitted completed applications that included a transcript, resume, essay and recommendation. The HBCU All-Stars will serve as ambassadors of the White House Initiative by providing outreach and communication with their fellow students about the value of education and the initiative as a networking resource.

“Engaging with the next generation of leaders who will graduate from HBCUs and go on to make meaningful contributions to society is crucial to the success of our community, our country and our global competitiveness,” said George Cooper, executive director of the WHIHBCUs. “It is a privilege to announce these 75 students who have demonstrated a commitment to both their own academic achievement and making a difference in their communities, and we look forward to working with them as partners in advancing President Obama’s college completion goal.”

2014 Local HBCU All Stars DISTRICT OF COLUMBIA Tyrone Hankerson – attends Howard University, District of Columbia Jocelyn Cole – attends Howard University, District of Columbia LaTrice Clayburn – attends Livingstone College, Salisbury, NC Abdul Nurriddin – attends University of the District of Columbia Community College, District of Columbia MARYLAND Accokeek – Symone Jordan – attends Bowie State University, Bowie, MD Fort Washington – Kayla Reynolds – attends Delaware State University, Dover, DE Baltimore – Triston Bing-Young –

attends Morgan State University, Baltimore, MD Fort Washington – Trevor McKie – attends Morgan State University, Baltimore, MD Silver Spring – Chanel Banks – attends University Maryland Eastern Shore, Princess Anne, MD Princess Anne – So Jin Park – attends University Maryland Eastern Shore, Princess Anne, MD VIRGINIA Suffolk – Chanae LeGrier – attends Elizabeth City State University, Elizabeth City, NC Dendron – Whitney Johnson – attends Hampton University, Hampton, VA Richmond – Caprichia Moses – attends Virginia Union University, Richmond, VA

Children’s Education Facilitator The District of Columbia Courts are seeking qualified applicants to provide group facilitation services for the children’s seminar of the Program for Agreement and Cooperation in Contested Custody Cases (PAC). The PAC children’s seminar is designed to assist children who maybe experiencing difficulties as a result of their parents/guardian court contested custody conflict.

The children facilitators utilize a play-based learning theory model. This model allows children to express themselves through arts and crafts and small group discussion. The seminar also affords children the opportunity to identify with other children who are going though similar situations.

The facilitator must be empathetic, open and friendly. He/she must have the ability to gain the trust of children and be able to conduct group facilitation with children from a wide variety of social and economic backgrounds. The facilitator must have the ability to work alone and in a team. The children seminars are held at the DC Superior Courts, Moultrie Building two Saturdays a month from 9:30 am to 2:00pm. The facilitators are paid a stipend of $225.00 per session.

Education Requirements: To be considered for this position you must possess a master’s degree in child psychology, therapy, counseling, mental health, child development or other child related fields. You must have at least 3 years experience in the areas of teaching, psychotherapy, social services or children’s healthcare or 5 years of equivalent work experience with children. Applicants must provide proof of education/ credentials and complete a background check.

To apply, please fax resume to 202-879-9457, attention: Kitty Huggins or apply via email to kitty.huggins@dcsc.gov. This position will remain open until filled.

February 15, 2014 - February 21, 2014, The Afro-American

B5

SPORTS

AFRO Sports Desk Faceoff

Will Adding Bynum Seal the NBA East for the Indiana Pacers?

By Perry Green and Stephen Riley AFRO Sports Desk

There’s no need to look any further, if there was any need to do so in the first place. There’s no need to get cute and try to look for “sexy” dark horse picks to come out of the NBA’s Eastern Conference this year.

Two eyes is all it takes to conclude that the Eastern Conference champion will either be the Miami Heat or the Indiana Pacers. Both teams sit comfortably atop the East, separated by a week’s worth of games while they hold double digit leads in the win column over the rest of the conference. The defending champion Heat, owners of back-to-back titles, barely escaped their last two playoff meetings against Indiana, battles in which Miami’s experience and superstars decided the outcome.

Size has always been the key to competing with Miami, and now the Pacers may have added it after acquiring former Lakers center Andrew Bynum to help clog the paint along with starting center Roy Hibbert and backup Ian Mahinmi. After a few tumultuous years, Bynum’s star doesn’t shine as bright as it once did, but is it still bright enough to help the Pacers edge the Heat? Perry Green and Stephen D. Riley of the AFRO Sports Desk debate the question.

Riley: Forget about the Miami Heat, there might not be a team in the league that can defeat the Pacers in a seven-game series. Their unit was already strong, but when you include Bynum, who doesn’t even have to do much, then you’re talking about a team ready to hoist a championship banner. With Danny Granger back and trying to round into shape, by the time the postseason starts Indiana could be ready to run through the Eastern Conference. George has become the superstar that any franchise needs to carry them while Hibbert, George Hill, Lance Stephenson and David West would each start at their own respected positions for more than 90 percent of the teams in the league. Bring Bynum, Luis Scola and Mahinmi off the bench and you have the best rotation of big men in the league. Miami has won back-to-back titles using James at the four position to create mismatches and speed advantages. Trying to execute that same strategy against the Pacers’ band of bigs might get James killed.

Green: You can’t just write off the defending champs like that. Indiana has been a tough matchup for the Heat over the past few years, but even when you add up all that Indiana has,

it still doesn’t equal the star power that James brings—along with Dwyane Wade and Chris Bosh. I still don’t trust George to show up in big games because we’ve only seen it in flashes.

The Pacers are still slow-footed as an overall unit, and one thing Miami will abuse you with is speed. Bosh at center will be just as tough as a matchup for any Pacers center, and while most of us still value Bynum for what he did in years past, we need to understand that the Bynum of late hasn’t been much more than a mascot wearing a basketball uniform. Will he even be there by the time June starts? Who knows.

Riley: That’s the beauty of what the Pacers have done: they don’t need Bynum to be great, just to be big. That’s another six fouls that Indiana can now trot out on the hardwood, and still get effective post play if they need it. In a center-deprived league, the Pacers have the advantage of having a capable one on the court at all times of any game. Whether it’s the first quarter or the fourth, the Pacers will have a bag of big men that they can comfortably place on the court. With all three centers healthy and active, that’ll be nearly 900 pounds of middlemen that Indiana will have in its inventory. The late 90s Chicago Bulls team had an assortment of centers including Bill Wennington, Luc Longley and the late Bison Dele, born Brian Williams, that they accumulated strictly for the purpose of fouling Shaquille O’Neal when he was with the Orlando Magic. The Pacers’ center group doesn’t have to worry about a Shaq-type center patrolling the East, but they can use their combined 18 fouls to take swipes at James if they wish. The only difference is that this group doesn’t have to just hack, they can also score with their back to the basket as well. Obviously, Jordan was a huge factor in the Bulls success but having that threeheaded tandem at center worked well for Chicago.

Green: The Heat have made a living over the last few seasons by being fast and disruptive on defense. They’ll continue to swarm offensive post ups and play passing lanes like they always do, and they’ll befuddle an out-of-shape Bynum who hasn’t played relevant basketball in over two and a half years. I like what Indiana has done from a personnel standpoint, but the speed and attack that Miami brings changes game plans and ideas. No matter who the Pacers get, they still can’t find a player to match James’ talents, regardless of George. Simply put, James is still the best player on the planet and it’s hard to design a plan or prepare for the things he can do. I’m a show me kind-of-guy and I’ll have to see Indiana beat Miami before I actually say they can.

Hampton Beats Howard to Win Latest “Battle of the Real HU”

By Perry Green AFRO Sports Editor Senior forward Du’Vaughn Maxwell scored a team-high 16 points with eight rebounds to help the Hampton Pirates win the latest “Battle of the Real HU,” a 63-47 victory over the Howard Bison on Feb. 8 at the HU Convocation Center in Hampton, Va. The score stayed close in the early minutes, but according to Howard Sports Information Director Ed Hill Jr., Hampton’s bench players entered the game and built a comfortable lead for the Pirates.

Sophomore guard Dwight Meikle and sophomore guard/ forward Miles Jackson scored a combined 13 points off the bench in the first half to help give Hampton a 36-15 lead at halftime. Howard tried to cut into that lead with several scoring runs in the second half, but Hampton answered with their own

runs to maintain the cushion over their opponents.

“Hampton is a talented team and they did a great job of jumping on us early,” Howard Coach Kevin Nickelberry told Howard Sports Information. “They did a good job of making it tough on [our best players] to get shots in the first half.”

Howard junior forward Prince Okoroh, one of the team’s most consistent scorers, was completely shut down in the game. Okoroh has averaged 15 points per game this season, but scored only four points on 2-of-13 shooting against Hampton.

Howard freshman guard

UDC Beats New York Institute of Technology to Remain Atop East Coast Conference

It didn’t take the University of the District of Columbia (UDC) Lady Firebirds long to recover after their six-game winning streak ended, as they immediately bounced back with a crushing 96-73 win over the New York Institute of Technology (NYIT) Lady Bear on Feb. 8 in Old Westbury, N.Y. UDC took control early on, using a 12-4 scoring run to take a comfortable lead they would expand on for the rest of the game.

Junior guard Telisha Turner led the Lady Firebirds with 22 points and four assists, while junior forward Denikka Brent followed up with 15 points and five rebounds. Junior guard ShaKena Williams added 14 points.

Senior guard Alex Venuto scored a team-high 17 points with eight rebounds for NYIT in the loss.

The win advanced UDC to a 15-4 overall record and 11-2 against East Coast Conference opponents, and kept them atop the conference standings. The Lady Firebirds will celebrate their homecoming on Feb. 10 against Bridgeport.

Bowie State Defeats Lincoln to Claim Division Lead The Bowie State University Bulldogs won their fifth straight game and advanced to first place in the Central Interscholastic Athletic Association’s (CIAA) North division after holding on to a 63-60 win against the Lincoln University Lions on Feb. 8 at the A.C. Jordan Arena in Bowie, Md. Lincoln had a chance to tie the score in the final seconds of the game, but missed a threepoint shot.

The score was close throughout the game, and Lincoln led by as many as eight points early in the second half. But the Bulldogs battled back with a scoring run to take the lead and hold on for the win.

Bowie State sophomore forward Andre Jackson scored a game-high 20 points, including 17 points in the second half. Senior guard Ray Gatling followed with 15 points, and senior forward Carlos Smith added 10 points while marking a new career high of five blocks.

Freshman guard/forward Timothy McKenzie scored a double-double of 16 points with 14 rebounds for the Lions.

Lincoln, one of the best teams in the CIAA, suffered just its sixth loss of the season, falling to 15-6 overall but 3-3 in the CIAA North. Bowie State advanced to 12-11 overall, and 5-1 in the CIAA North.

afro.com

•Your History • Your Community

• Your News

James Daniels led all scorers with 21 points.

Hampton advanced to a 12-11 overall record, and 7-3 against the Mid-Eastern Athletic Conference (MEAC). Howard dropped to a 6-18 overall record, and 4-5 in the MEAC.

B6

The Afro-American, February 15, 2014 - February 21, 2014

Howard U. Celebrates Mandela

Jazz vocalist and Howard alumna Akua Allrich electrified the crowd with jazz and pan-African music.

Howard University presented “A Mandela Day” Symposium on Feb. 11. The event, held in the Browsing Room of Founders Library, celebrated the day the late South African president was released from prison on Robben Island in 1990.

The event culminated with a 7 p.m. jazz concert featuring trumpeter Hugh Masekela and pianist Larry Willis at Howard’s Cramton Auditorium. Also performing were the Howard University Jazztet with Fred Irby, vocalist Akua Allrich and Afro Blue.

Both the concert and the symposium were free and open to the public.

Howard is celebrating Mandela, who died in December, in a year-long event. An acclaimed multimedia exhibition – Nelson Mandela: Character, Comrade, Leader, Prisoner, Negotiator, Statesman – is on display at Howard’s MoorlandSpingarn Research Center through April 27.

Photos courtesy Howard University

Legendary musician and activist Hugh Masekela, accompanied by acclaimed pianist Larry Willis, shared songs inspired by Miriam Makeba and Louis Armstrong.

Howard University’s premier vocal jazz ensemble, Afro Blue, captured the crowd with a rendition of Esperanza Spalding’s “Black Gold.”

The Howard University Jazztet performed as the opening act of “A Musical Tribute to Mandela.”

Keorapetse “Willie” Kgositsile, poet laureate of South Africa, presented select poems from his collection.

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

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

3. organ, eye and tissue donors.

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

DonateLifeMaryland.org

February 15, 2014 - February 21, 2014, The Afro-American

B7

CLASSIFIED

Payment Policy for legal notice advertisements. Effective immediately, The Afro American Newspapers will require prepayment for publication of all legal notices. Payment will be accepted in the form of checks, credit card or money order. Any returned checks will be subject to a $25.00 processing fee and may result in the suspension of any future advertising at our discretion.

TYPESET: Tue Feb 04 12:07:02 EST 2014

BUSINESS

AD NETWORK

The Law Firm of Allen Wilson 202-508-3794

VETERANS! Take full advantage of your Educational training benefits! GI Bill covers COMPUTER & MEDICAL TRAINING! Call CTI for Free Benefit Analysis today! 1-888407-7173

We can help in: 0 Real Estate 0 Personal Injury 0 Probate 0 Employment Law 0 Landlord/Tenant E-MAIL wilsonallen3@aol. com WEB LISTING allenwilsonlaw.com Call Allen Wilson 202-508-3794 DC 212-714-0300 NY

AD NETWORK Ad Network Classifieds are published in 65 newspapers.

25 words $175 (For more than 25 words there is an additional charge of $7 per word.)

Call (410) 554-8200 All ads must be prepaid

ANTIQUES & COLLECTIBLES

Wanted To Purchase Antiques & Fine Art, 1 item Or Entire Estate Or Collection, Gold, Silver, Coins, Jewelry, Toys, Oriental Glass, China, Lamps, Books, Textiles, Paintings, Prints almost anything old Evergreen Auctions 973-818-1100. Email evergreenauction@ hotmail.com

AUTOMOBILE DONATIONS DONATE AUTOS, TRUCKS, RV’S. LUTHERAN MISSION SOCIETY. Your donation helps local families with food, clothing, shelter. Tax deductible. MVA licensed.

LutheranMissionSociety. org 410-636-0123 or toll-free 1-877-7378567.

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

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

EDUCATIONAL TRAINING

FINANCIAL SERVICES DROWNING IN DEBT? Stop collection calls. New or consolidated credit available. Bad credit ok. Call Century Financial 1-800-9311942

HELP WANTED: DRIVERS Drivers HOME WEEKLY & BI-WEEKLY EARN $900-$1200/ WK Class A CDL & 6 Mos. Exp. Req. No Canada, HAZMAT or NYC! 877-705-9261

HELP WANTED: SALES WANTED LIFE AGENTS; Earn $500 a Day; Great Agent Benefits; Commissions Paid Daily; Liberal Underwriting; Leads, Leads, Leads LIFE INSURANCE, LICENSE REQUIRED. Call 1-888-713-6020

LOTS & ACREAGE MOUNTAIN HOMESTEAD! High Mountain Vistas. 8+ Acres $39,657. Enjoy it all! Pristine valley views, open meadows, tall hardwoods. The perfect mountain getaway!

Perced, all mineral rights, warranty deed, state road frontage, utilities.

Enjoy peace of mind, coupled with best low down financing in years.

Own at below market!

Call now 800-888-1262

MISCELLANEOUS AIRLINE CAREERS begin here – Get FAA approved Aviation Maintenance training.

Housing and Financial Aid for qualified students. Job placement assistance. CALL Aviation Institute of Maintenance 800-481-8974

REAL ESTATE Discover Delaware’s Resort Living without Resort Pricing! Milder winters & Low Taxes!

Gated Community with amazing amenities!

New homes mid $40’s.

Brochures available 1-866-629-0770 or www.coolbranch.com

SERVS./ MISC. Want a larger footprint in the marketplace consider advertising in the MDDC Display 2x2 or 2x4 Advertising Network. Reach 3.6 million readers every week by placing your ad in 82 newspapers in Maryland, Delaware and the District of Columbia.

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

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

LEGAL NOTICES

Superior Court of the District of District of Columbia PROBATE DIVISION Washington, D.C. 20001-2131 Administration No. 2013ADM1326 Robert Gilliam Decedent Robert M. McCarthy 4405 East West Hwy, Suite 201 Bethesda MD 20814 Attorney NOTICE OF APPOINTMENT, NOTICE TO CREDITORS AND NOTICE TO UNKNOWN HEIRS Dorothy Harvey , whose address is, 904 Delran Place, Upper Marlboro, MD 20774 was appointed personal representative of the estate of Robert Gilliam, who died on September 26, 2013 without a Will, and will serve without Court supervision. All unknown heirs and heirs whose whereabouts are unknown shall enter their appearance in this proceeding. Objections to such appointment shall be filed with the Register of Wills, D.C., 515 5th Street, N.W., 3rd Floor Washington, D.C. 20001, on or before July 31, 2014. Claims against the decedent shall be presented to the undersigned with a copy to the Register of Wills or filed with the Register of Wills with a copy to the undersigned, on or before July 31, 2014, or be forever barred. Persons believed to be heirs or legatees of the decedent who do not receive a copy of this notice by mail within 25 days of its first publication shall so inform the Register of Wills, including name, address and relationship.

Date of Publication: January 31, 2014 Name of newspaper: Afro-American Washington Law Reporter Dorothy C. Harvey Personal Representative TRUE TEST COPY REGISTER OF WILLS

Superior Court of the District of District of Columbia PROBATE DIVISION Washington, D.C. 20001-2131 Administration No. 2014ADM45 Pauline A. Dufresne Decedent W. Alton Lewis 1450 Mercantile Lane, Suite 155, Largo, MD 20774 Attorney NOTICE OF APPOINTMENT, NOTICE TO CREDITORS AND NOTICE TO UNKNOWN HEIRS Richard J. Gable, whose address is 4515 Willard Ave, Chevy Chase, MD 20815 was appointed personal representative of the estate of Pauline A. Dufresne, who died on December 1, 2013 with a Will, and will serve without) Court supervision.

All unknown heirs and h e i r s w h o s e whereabouts are unknown shall enter their appearance in this proceeding. Objections to such appointment (or to the probate of decedent´s will) shall be filed with the Register of Wills, D.C., 515 5th Street, N.W., 3rd Floor Wa s h i n g t o n , D . C .

20001, on or before July 31, 2014. Claims against the decedent shall be presented to the undersigned with a copy to the Register of Wills or filed with the Register of Wills with a copy to the undersigned, on or before July 31, 2014, or be forever barred. Persons believed to be heirs or legatees of the decedent who do not receive a copy of this notice by mail within 25 days of its first publication shall so inform the Register of Wills, including name, address and relationship.

Date of Publication: January 31, 2014 Name of newspaper: Afro-American Washington Law Reporter Richard J. Gable Personal Representative

TRUE TEST TYPESET: Mon Jan 27 16:44:32 ESTCOPY 2014 01/31, 02/07, 02/14/14

REGISTER OF WILLS

Superior Court of the District of District of Columbia PROBATE DIVISION Washington, D.C. 20001-2131 Administration No. 2014ADM16 Sylvester Roy Woodfork Jr. Decedent Julius P. Terrell 1455 Pennsylvania Ave., NW Ste 400 Washington, DC 20004 Attorney NOTICE OF APPOINTMENT, NOTICE TO CREDITORS AND NOTICE TO UNKNOWN HEIRS Marion Woodfrok Simmons, whose address is 4110 Swiss Stone Dr., Burtonsville, MD 20866 was appointed personal representative of the estate of Sylvester Roy Woodfork Jr., who died on November 26, 2013 without a Will, and will serve without Court supervision. All unknown heirs and heirs whose whereabouts are unknown shall enter their appearance in this proceeding.

Objections to such appointment shall be filed with the Register of Wills, D.C., 515 5th Street, N.W., 3rd Floor Wa s h i n g t o n , D . C .

20001, on or before July 31, 2014. Claims against the decedent shall be presented to the undersigned with a copy to the Register of Wills or filed with the Register of Wills with a copy to the undersigned, on or before July 31, 2014, or be forever barred. Persons believed to be heirs or legatees of the decedent who do not receive a copy of this notice by mail within 25 days of its first publication shall so inform the Register of Wills, including name, address and relationship.

Date of Publication: January 31, 2014 Name of newspaper: Afro-American Washington Law Reporter

01/31, 02/07, 02/14/14

Marion Woodfork Simmons Personal Representative TRUE TEST COPY REGISTER OF WILLS 01/31, 02/07, 02/14/14

YOU KNOW YOU’RE IN THE KNOW...

WHEN YOU

TYPESET: Tue Feb 04 SUPERIOR COURT OF THE DISTRICT OF COLUMBIA PROBATE DIVISION Washington, D.C. 20001-2131 Administration No. 2014ADM85 Estate of Jerome White Deceased NOTICE OF STANDARD PROBATE Notice is hereby given that a petition has been filed in this Court by Lorraine W. Saunders for standard probate, including the appointment of one or more personal representative.

Unless a complaint or an objection in accordance with Superior Court Probate Division Rule 107 is filed in this Court within 30 days from the date of first publication of this notice, the Court may take the action hereinafter set forth.

Upon proof satisfactory to the Court of due execution by affidavit of the witnesses to the will, the Court will enter an order admitting the will probate and appointing one or more personal representetives. In the absence of a will or proof satisfactory to the Court of due execution, the Court will enter an order determining that the decedent died intestate and appointing one or more personal representatives.

Register of Wills Clerk of the Probate Division Date of First Publication February 7, 2014 Names of Newspapers: Washington Law Reporter Washington AFRO-AMERICAN Lorraine W. Saunders 8830 Piney Branch Road, 1201 Silver Spring, Maryland 20903 Signature of Petitioners/Attorney 02/08, 02/14/2014

SUPERIOR COURT OF THE DISTRICT OF COLUMBIA PROBATE DIVISION Washington, D.C. 20001-2131 Administration No. 2014ADM59 Estate of Lola Moss Lewis Deceased NOTICE OF STANDARD PROBATE Notice is hereby given that a petition has been filed in this Court by Floyd Hilton Lewis, Jr. for standard probate, including the appoint-ment of one or more personal representative. Unless a complaint or an objection in accordance with Superior Court Probate Division Rule 407 is filed in this Court within 30 days from the date of first publication of this notice, the Court may take the action hereinafter set forth.

0 In the absence of a will or proof satisfactory to the Court of due excution, enter an order determining that the decendent died intestate: appoint an unsupervised personal representative Register of Wills Clerk of the Probate Division Date of First Publication February 7, 2014 Names of Newspapers: Washington Law Reporter Washington AFRO-AMERICAN Floyd Hilton Lewis, Jr. 252 Maryland Ave, NE, #B Washington, D.C. 20002 Signature of Petitioners/Attorney

TYPESET: Tue Feb 04

02/07, 02/14/2014

SUPERIOR COURT OF THE DISTRICT OF COLUMBIA PROBATE DIVISION Washington, D.C. 20001-2131 Foreign No. 2014FEP17 Date of Death Lynn White Decedent NOTICE OF APPOINTMENT 12:06:01 EST 2014 OF FOREIGN PERSONAL R E P R E S E N TAT I V E AND NOTICE TO CREDITORS Laticia Lasane whose address is 29906 Lime St, Temple Hills, MD 20748 was appointed personal representative of the estate of Lynn White, deceased, on January 26, 2011 by the Prince George’s Circuit Court for Prince George’s County, State of Maryland.

Service of process may be made upon Clarence Connelly, Esq., 1404 Roxanna Rd. NW Washington D.C. 20012 whose designation as District of Columbia agent has been filed with the Register of Wills, D.C. The decedent owned the following District of Colombia real property: 5005 11th St, Washington, D.C. 20017 The decendent owned District of Columbia personal property. (Strike preceding sentence if no real estate) Claims against the decedent may be presented to the undersigned and filed with the Register of Wills for the District of Columbia, Building A, 515 5th St, N . W. , 3 r d F l o o r.

Washington, D.C. 20001 within 6 months from the date of first publication.

Clarence Connelly Laticia Lasane Personal Representative(s) TRUE TEST COPY REGISTER OF WILLS Date of first publication: February 7, 2014 Name of newspapers and/or periodical: The Daily Washington Law Reporter The Afro-American 02/07, 02/14 & 02/21/14

To Advertise in the AFRO Call 202-332-0080

Sma

l ad

s

410-554-8200

Buy it • Sell it Swap it • Lease it Rent it • Hire it

results

TYPESET: Mon Jan 27 16:45:25 ESTMon 2014 Jan 27 16:44:51 2014 TYPESET: Tue Feb 04 12:06:24 EST 2014 LEGAL NOTICES TYPESET: LEGALEST NOTICES

SAMPLE

A F R O

l

B8 The Afro-American, February 15, 2014 - February 21, 2014

1 Col. Inch Up to 20 Words

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

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

1.

2.

3.

4.

5.

6.

7.

8.

9.

10.

11.

12.

13.

14.

15.

16.

17.

18.

19.

20.

NAME: ________________________________________________ ADDRESS: _____________________________________________ PHONE NO.:____________________________________________ CLASSIFICATION: ______________________________________ TYPESET: Tue Feb 04 12:03:14 EST 2014 (Room, Apt., House, etc.)

Superior Court of INSERTION DATE:_________________

the District of District of Columbia PROBATE DIVISION Washington, D.C. Legal Advertising 20001-2131 Rates Administration Effective October 1, 2008 No. 2013ADM785 John William McMullen Decedent PROBATE DIVISION NOTICE OF (Estates)APPOINTMENT, NOTICE TO TYPESET: Tue Feb 04 12:03:00 202-332-0080CREDITORS PROBATE NOTICES AND NOTICE TO UNKNOWN HEIRS Superior Court of 12:03:37 EST 2014 the District of Carmenlita Williams a. Order Nisi $ 60 per insertion per District of 3 Columbia whose address is 12869 $180.00 PROBATE DIVISION Climbing Ivy Drive, Gerweeks Washington, D.C. mantown MD 20874 was b. Small Estates (single publication $ 60 per insertion 20001-2131 appointed personal reAdministration No. c. Notice to Creditors presentative of the estate 2014ADM42 of John William McMul1. Domestic $ 60 per insertion $180.00 perWhitfield 3 Farrie Lee len, who died on Septem- Decedent weeks ber 7, 2012 without a NOTICE OF Will, and will serve with- $180.00 2. Foreign $ 60 per insertion per 3 APPOINTMENT, out Court supervision.

All NOTICE TO weeks unknown heirs and heirs CREDITORS d. Escheated Estates $ 60 per insertion 6 TO ANDper NOTICE whose where-abouts are $360.00 UNKNOWN HEIRS unknown shall enter their weeks Willie R Whitfield, whose appearance in this e. Standard Probates $125.00 proceeding. Objections address is 7009 Dowerto such appointment house Rd, Upper Marshall be filed with the loboro, MD 20772 CIVIL NOTICES was, appointed personal Register of Wills, D.C., representative of the a. Name Changes 202-879-1133 80.00of Farrie Lee 515 5th Street, N.W., 3rd $ estate Floor Washington, D.C. $ Whitfield, who died on b. Real Property 200.00 20001, on or before Au- November 8, 2013 with a gust 14, 2014. Claims Will, and will serve withagainst the decedent out Court supervision. All FAMILY COURT shall be presented to the unknown heirs and heirs 202-879-1212 undersigned with a copy whose whereabouts are to the Register of Wills or unknown shall enter their DOMESTIC RELATIONS filed with the Register of a p p e a r a n c e i n t h i s 202-879-0157 Wills with a copy to the proceeding. Objections undersigned, on or be- to such appointment (or to the probate of defore August 14, 2014, or cedent´s will) shall be be forever barred. Per- $ filed a. Absent Defendant 150.00 with the Register of sons believed to be heirs Wills, D.C., 515 5th b. Absolute Divorce $ 150.00 or legatees of the de- Street, N.W., 3rd Floor cedent who do not re- $150.00 c. Custody Divorce Wa s h i n g t o n , D . C . ceive a copy of this notice 20001, on or before Auby mail within 25 days of gust 7, 2014. Claims against the&decedent its first publication To place your ad, call 1-800-237-6892, ext.

262, Publicshall Notices $50.00 up so inform the Register of shall be presented to the depending on size, Baltimore Legal Notices arename, $24.84 undersigned per inch. with a copy Wills, including the Register of Wills or address 1-800 (AFRO) 892and relation- to filed with the Register of ship.

Wills For Proof of Publication, pleaseDate callof1-800-237-6892, ext. with 244 a copy to the Publication: undersigned, on or beFebruary 14, 2014 fore August 7, 2014, or Name of newspaper: be forever barred. PerTYPESET: Tue Feb 11 12:26:05 ESTTue 2014 TYPESET: Feb 04 12:03:14 EST 2014 Afro-American sons believed to be heirs LEGAL NOTICES LEGAL NOTICES Washington LEGAL NOTICES orLEGAL legateesNOTICES of the deLaw Reporter cedent who do not reSUPERIOR COURT OF Superior Court of Carmenlita Williams ceive a copy of this notice THE DISTRICT OF the District of Personal by mail within 25 days of COLUMBIA District of Columbia Representative its first publication shall PROBATE DIVISION

WASHINGTON AFRO-AMERICAN NEWSPAPER

Washington, D.C. 20001-2131 Foreign No. 2014FEP16 Date of Death July 5,2013 Laura W. Blake Decedent NOTICE OF APPOINTMENT OF FOREIGN PERSONAL REPRESENTATIVE AND NOTICE TO CREDITORS Brenda A.Lockley whose address is 700 Grand Canal Drive, Kissimee, FL 34759 was appointed personal representative of the estate of Laura W. Blake, deceased, on September 3, 2013, by the Circuit Court for Osceola County, State of Florida.

Service of process may be made upon Beverly L. Harris 2637 Patricia Roberts Harris Place, N.E., Washington, D.C. 20018 whose designation as District of Columbia agent has been filed with the Register of Wills, D.C. Claims against the decendent may be presented to the undersigned and filed with the Register of Wills for the District of Columbia, Building A, 515 5th street, N.W., 3rd Floor, Washington, D.C. 20001 within 6 months from the date of first publication of this notice.

Brenda A. Lockley Personal Representative TRUE TEST COPY REGISTER OF WILLS Date of first publication: February 14, 2014 Name of newspapers and/or periodical: The Daily Washington Law Reporter The Afro-American 02/14, 02/21, 02/28/14

PROBATE DIVISION Washington, D.C. 20001-2131 Administration No. 2013ADM785 John William McMullen Decedent NOTICE OF APPOINTMENT, NOTICE TO CREDITORS AND NOTICE TO UNKNOWN HEIRS Carmenlita Williams whose address is 12869 Climbing Ivy Drive, Germantown MD 20874 was appointed personal representative of the estate of John William McMullen, who died on September 7, 2012 without a Will, and will serve without Court supervision. All unknown heirs and heirs whose where-abouts are unknown shall enter their appearance in this proceeding. Objections to such appointment shall be filed with the Register of Wills, D.C., 515 5th Street, N.W., 3rd Floor Washington, D.C. 20001, on or before August 14, 2014. Claims against the decedent shall be presented to the undersigned with a copy to the Register of Wills or filed with the Register of Wills with a copy to the undersigned, on or before August 14, 2014, or be forever barred. Persons believed to be heirs or legatees of the decedent who do not receive a copy of this notice by mail within 25 days of its first publication shall so inform the Register of Wills, including name, address and relationship.

Date of Publication: February 14, 2014 Name of newspaper: Afro-American Washington Law Reporter Carmenlita Williams Personal Representative

so inform the Register of Wills, including name, address and relationship.

Date of Publication: TYPESET: Feb 04 12:03:00 EST 2014 02/14, 02/21,Tue 02/28/14 February 7, 2014 Name of newspaper: Afro-American Superior Court of Washington the District of Law Reporter District of Columbia Willie R. Whitfield PROBATE DIVISION Personal Washington, D.C. Representative 20001-2131 Administration No. TRUE TEST COPY 2014ADM42 REGISTER OF WILLS Farrie Lee Whitfield TYPESET: Tue Feb 04 12:02:39 Decedent 02/07, 02/14, 02/21/14 NOTICE OF APPOINTMENT, Superior Court of NOTICE TO the District of CREDITORS District of Columbia AND NOTICE TO PROBATE DIVISION UNKNOWN HEIRS Washington, D.C. Willie R Whitfield, whose 20001-2131 address is 7009 DowerAdministration No. house Rd, Upper Mar2014ADM63 loboro, MD 20772 was, appointed personal Patricia Mae Poyner representative of the Decedent estate of Farrie Lee Barbara B. Carter Whitfield, who died on 1 9 0 4 P a r k s i d e D r.

November 8, 2013 with a Mitchellville, MD 20721 NOTICE OF Will, and will serve withAPPOINTMENT, out Court supervision. All NOTICE TO unknown heirs and heirs CREDITORS whose whereabouts are AND NOTICE TO unknown shall enter their UNKNOWN HEIRS appearance in this proceeding. Objections Barbara B. Carter, whose to such appointment (or address is 1904 Parkside to the probate of de- Dr., Mitche-llville, MD cedent´s will) shall be 20721, was appointed filed with the Register of personal representative of the estate of Patricia Wills, D.C., 515 5th Street, N.W., 3rd Floor Mae Poyner, who died on January 5, 2014 without Wa s h i n g t o n , D . C .

20001, on or before Au- a Will, and will serve with gust 7, 2014. Claims Court supervision. All unagainst the decedent known heirs and heirs shall be presented to the whose where-abouts are undersigned with a copy unknown shall enter their to the Register of Wills or a p p e a r a n c e i n t h i s filed with the Register of proceeding. Objections Wills with a copy to the to such appointment undersigned, on or be- shall be filed with the fore August 7, 2014, or Register of Wills, D.C., be forever barred. Per- 515 5th Street, N.W., 3rd sons believed to be heirs Floor Washington, D.C. or legatees of the de- 20001, on or before Aucedent who do not re- gust 7, 2014. Claims ceive a copy of this notice against the decedent by mail within 25 days of shall be presented to the its first publication shall undersigned with a copy so inform the Register of to the Register of Wills or Wills, including name, filed with the Register of

TRUE TEST COPY REGISTER OF WILLS

Superior Court of the District of District of Columbia PROBATE DIVISION Washington, D.C. 20001-2131 Administration No. 2013ADM947 Leonard L. Foster AKA Leonard Lee Foster Decedent NOTICE OF APPOINTMENT, NOTICE TO CREDITORS AND NOTICE TO UNKNOWN HEIRS Alan Lee Foster, whose address is 19005Crosstie Terrace, Germantown MD, 20874, was appointed personal representative of the estate of Leonard L. Foster AKA Leonard Lee Foster who died on March 16, 2011 with a Will, and will serve without Court supervision. All unknown heirs and heirs whose where-abouts are unknown shall enter their appearance in this proceeding. Objections to such appointment (or to the probate of decedent´s will) shall be filed with the Register of Wills, D.C., 515 5th Street, N.W., 3rd Floor Wa s h i n g t o n , D . C .

20001, on or before August 7, 2014. Claims against the decedent shall be presented to the undersigned with a copy to the Register of Wills or filed with the Register of Wills with a copy to the undersigned, on or before August 7, 2014 , or be forever barred. Persons believed to be heirs or legatees of the decedent who do not receive a copy of this notice by mail within 25 days of its first publication shall so inform the Register of Wills, including name, address and relationship.

Date of Publication: February 7, 2014 Name of newspaper: Afro-American Washington Law Reporter Alan Lee Foster Personal Representative TRUE TEST COPY REGISTER OF WILLS

TYPESET: Tue Feb 04 02/7, 02/14, 02/21/14

Superior Court of the District of District of Columbia PROBATE DIVISION Washington, D.C. 20001-2131 Administration No. 2014ADM71 Ethel Price-Clark Decedent Molly B.F. Walls, Esq 1101 17th St, N.W., Ste 820 Washington, DC 20036 Attorney NOTICE OF APPOINTMENT, NOTICE TO CREDITORS AND NOTICE TO UNKNOWN HEIRS Crystal R. Price, whose address is 1134 Kennebec St, Apt 2, Oxon Hil, MD 20745 was appointed personal representative of the estate of Ethel Price-Clark, who died on October 12, 2011 without a Will, and will serve without Court supervision. All unknown heirs and heirs whose whereabouts are unknown shall enter their appearance in this proceeding. Objections to such appointment shall be filed with the Register of Wills, D.C., 515 5th Street, N.W., 3rd Floor Washington, D.C. 20001, on or before August 7, 2014. Claims against the decedent shall be presented to the undersigned with a copy to the Register of Wills or filed with the Register of Wills with a copy to the undersigned, on or before August 7, 2014, or be forever barred. Persons believed to be heirs or legatees of the decedent who do not receive a copy of this notice by mail within 25 days of its first publication shall so inform the Register of Wills, including name, address and relationship.

Date of Publication: February 7, 2014 Name of newspaper: Afro-American Washington Law Reporter Crystal R. Price Personal Representative TRUE TEST COPY REGISTER OF WILLS 02/07, 02/14, 02/21/14

Superior Court of the District of District of Columbia PROBATE DIVISION Washington, D.C. 20001-2131 Administration No. 2014ADM58 Theresa C. Waters Decedent Theodora H. Brown, Esquire, Law Office of Theodora H. Brown, PLLC, 3127 Cherry Rd, N E , Wa s h i n g t o n D C 20018 Attorney NOTICE OF APPOINTMENT, NOTICE TO CREDITORS AND NOTICE TO UNKNOWN HEIRS Hennrietta Smith, whose address is 1020 Crittenden St., NE, Washington, DC 20017, was appointed personal representative of the estate of 11:56:14 2014 who Theresa EST C. Waters, died on October 28, 2013 without a Will, and will serve without Court supervision. All unknown heirs and heirs whose whereabouts are unknown shall enter their appearance in this proceeding. Objections to such appointment shall be filed with the Register of Wills, D.C., 515 5th Street, N.W., 3rd Floor Washington, D.C. 20001, on or before August 7, 2014. Claims against the decedent shall be presented to the undersigned with a copy to the Register of Wills or filed with the Register of Wills with a copy to the undersigned, on or before August 7, 2014, or be forever barred. Persons believed to be heirs or legatees of the decedent who do not receive a copy of this notice by mail within 25 days of its first publication shall so inform the Register of Wills, including name, address and relationship.

Date of Publication: February 7, 2014 Name of newspaper: Afro-American Washington Law Reporter Hennrietta Smith Personal Representative

Superior Court of the District of District of Columbia PROBATE DIVISION Washington, D.C. 20001-2131 Administration No. 2013ADM809 Audley Ricardo Hawkins A.K.A. A. Ricardo Hawkins Decedent Thomas L. Campbell, Esq. 3807 Minnesota Avenue, NE Washington. DC 20019 Attorney NOTICE OF APPOINTMENT, NOTICE TO CREDITORS AND NOTICE TO UNKNOWN HEIRS Shawn S. Hawkins, whose address is 1646 First Ave., #5D, New York, NY 10028 was appointed personal representative of the estate of Audley Ricardo Hawkins a.k.a. A. Ricardo Hawkins, who died on June 26, 2013 with a Will and will serve with Court supervision. All unknown heirs and heirs whose whereabouts are unknown shall enter their appearance in this proceeding. Objections to such appointment (or to the probate of decedent´s will) shall be filed with the Register of Wills, D.C., 515 5th Street, N.W., 3rd Floor Wa s h i n g t o n , D . C .

20001, on or before August 14, 2014. Claims against the decedent shall be presented to the undersigned with a copy to the Register of Wills or filed with the Register of Wills with a copy to the undersigned, on or before August 14, 2014, or be forever barred. Persons believed to be heirs or legatees of the decedent who do not receive a copy of this notice by mail within 25 days of its first publication shall so inform the Register of Wills, including name, address and relationship.

Date of Publication: February 14, 2014 Name of newspaper: Afro-American Washington Law Reporter

TRUE TEST COPY REGISTER OF WILLS

Superior Court of the District of District of Columbia PROBATE DIVISION Washington, D.C. 20001-2131 Administration No. 2014ADM97 Doris W. Carter Decedent W. Alton Lewis 1450 Mercantile Lane, #155 Largo, MD 20774 Attorney NOTICE OF APPOINTMENT, NOTICE TO CREDITORS AND NOTICE TO UNKNOWN HEIRS Derek A. Carter, whose address is 10113 Bignonia Drive, Laurel, MD 20708 was appointed personal representative of the estate of Doris W. Cater, who died on June 30th, 2013 without a Will, and will serve without Court supervision. All unknown heirs and heirs whose where-abouts are unknown shall enter their appearance in this proceeding. Objections to such appointment shall be filed with the Register of Wills, D.C., 515 5th Street, N.W., 3rd Floor Washington, D.C. 20001, on or before August 14, 2014. Claims against the decedent shall be presented to the undersigned with a copy to the Register of Wills or filed with the Register of Wills with a copy to the undersigned, on or before August 14, 2014, or be forever barred. Persons believed to be heirs or legatees of the decedent who do not receive a copy of this notice by mail within 25 days of its first publication shall so inform the Register of Wills, including name, address and relationship.

Date of Publication: 02/14/14 Name of newspaper: Afro-American Washington Law Reporter Derek A. Carter Personal Representative TRUE TEST COPY REGISTER OF WILLS

02/14, 02/21, 02/28/14

afro. com

Darrell T. Hill Sr. Personal Representative

TRUE TEST TYPESET: Tue Feb 11 12:25:11 ESTCOPY 2014 02/14, 02/21, 02/28/14

Shawn S. Hawkins Personal Superior Court of Representative TYPESET: Tue Feb 04 11:55:34 EST 2014 the District of 02/07, 02/14, 02/21/14 District of Columbia TRUE TEST COPY PROBATE DIVISION REGISTER OF WILLS Superior Court of Washington, D.C. TYPESET: Tue Feb 11 12:24:3120001-2131 EST 2014 the District of 02/14, 02/21, 02/28/14 District of Columbia Administration No. PROBATE DIVISION 2014ADM61 Washington, D.C. Superior Court of Welson S. Jenkins 20001-2131 the District of A.K.A. Administration No. District of Columbia Weldon Stanley 2013ADM1162 PROBATE DIVISION Jenkins Ema J. Bailey W a s h i n g t o n , D . C . Decedent AKA 20001-2131 NOTICE OF Emma J. Bailey Administration No. APPOINTMENT, Decedent 2013ADM000955 NOTICE TO Brian W. Thompson, Edward L. Gray, CREDITORS Esq A.K.A. AND NOTICE TO 4530 Wisconsin Ave Edward L. Graye UNKNOWN HEIRS NW, Suite 200 Decedent Gail P. Headen, whose Washington, DC 20016 Larry C. Williams, Esq. address is 1330 Hemlock Attorney 7600 Georgia Avenue, St. NW, Washington DC NOTICE OF NW, Ste. 405 20012, was appointed APPOINTMENT, Washingtin, DC personal representative NOTICE TO 20012-1616 of the estate of , who died CREDITORS Attorney on September 28, 2013 AND NOTICE TO NOTICE OF with a Will, and will serve UNKNOWN HEIRS APPOINTMENT, without Court superviJoyce Ann Brentley, NOTICE TO sion. All unknown heirs whose address is 1604 CREDITORS and heirs whose 11:55:52 EST 2014Silver Timberline Road, AND NOTICE TO whereabouts are unSpring, MD 20904 was UNKNOWN HEIRS known shall enter their appointed personal re- Roma L. Gray, whose ad- a p p e a r a n c e i n t h i s presentative of the estate dress is 1200 N Street, proceeding. Objections of Ema J. Bailey AKA NW, Apt. 403, Washing- to such appointment (or Emma J. Bailey, who ton, DC 20005 was ap- to the probate of dedied on May 1, 2004 with- pointed personal repre- cedent´s will) shall be out a Will, and will serve sentative of the estate of filed with the Register of with Court supervision. Edward L. Gray a.k.a. Wills, D.C., 515 5th All unknown heirs and Edward L. Graye, who Street, N.W., 3rd Floor h e i r s w h o s e died on May 17, 2013 W a s h i n g t o n , D . C . whereabouts are un- without a Will, and will 20001, on or before Auknown shall enter their serve without Court su- gust 14, 2014. Claims appearance in this pervision. All unknown against the decedent proceeding. Objections heirs and heirs whose shall be presented to the to such appointment (or whereabouts are un- undersigned with a copy to the probate of de- known shall enter their to the Register of Wills or cedent´s will) shall be a p p e a r a n c e i n t h i s filed with the Register of filed with the Register of proceeding. Objections Wills with a copy to the Wills, D.C., 515 5th to such appointment (or undersigned, on or beStreet, N.W., 3rd Floor to the probate of de- fore August 14, 2014, or Wa s h i n g t o n , D . C . cedent´s will) shall be be forever barred. Per20001, on or before Au- filed with the Register of sons believed to be heirs gust 7, 2014. Claims Wills, D.C., 515 5th or legatees of the deagainst the decedent Street, N.W., 3rd Floor cedent who do not reshall be presented to the W a s h i n g t o n , D . C . ceive a copy of this notice undersigned with a copy 20001, on or before Au- by mail within 25 days of to the Register of Wills or gust 14, 2014. Claims its first publication shall filed with the Register of against the decedent so inform the Register of Wills with a copy to the shall be presented to the Wills, including name, undersigned, on or be- undersigned with a copy address and relationfore August 7, 2014, or to the Register of Wills or ship. be forever barred. Per- filed with the Register of Date of Publication: sons believed to be heirs Wills with a copy to the February 14, 2014 or legatees of the de- undersigned, on or be- Name of newspaper: cedent who do not re- fore August 14, 2014, or Afro-American ceive a copy of this notice be forever barred. Per- Washington by mail within 25 days of sons believed to be heirs Law Reporter its first publication shall or legatees of the deso inform the Register of cedent who do not reGail P. Headen Wills, including name, ceive a copy of this notice Personal address and relation- by mail within 25 days of Representative ship. its first publication shall Date of Publication: so inform the Register of TRUE TEST COPY August 7, 2014 Wills, including name, REGISTER OF WILLS Name of newspaper: address and relationAfro-American ship.

02/14, 02/21, 02/28/14 Washington Date of Publication: Law Reporter February 14, 2014 Joyce Ann Brentley Name of newspaper: Personal Afro-American Representative Washington Law Reporter TRUE TEST COPY REGISTER OF WILLS Roma L. Gray Personal 02/07, 02/14, 02/21/14 Representative TRUE TEST COPY REGISTER OF WILLS

Superior Court of the District of District of Columbia PROBATE DIVISION Washington, D.C. 20001-2131 Administration No. 2013ADM1329 John P. Hill Decedent Glenn R. Bonard c/o Whiteford Taylor & Preston 1025 Connecticut Ave., NW, Ste 400 Washington, DC 20035 Attorney NOTICE OF APPOINTMENT, NOTICE TO CREDITORS AND NOTICE TO UNKNOWN HEIRS Darrell T. Hill Sr., whose address is 13402 Overbrook Lane, Bowie, MD 20715 was appointed personal representative of the estate of John P. Hill, who died on January 25, 2008 without a Will and will serve without Court supervision. All unknown heirs and heirs whose where-abouts are unknown shall enter their appearance in this proceeding. Objections to such appointment shall be filed with the Register of Wills, D.C., 515 5th Street, N.W., 3rd Floor Washington, D.C. 20001, on or before August 14, 2014. Claims against the decedent shall be presented to the undersigned with a copy to the Register of Wills or filed with the Register of Wills with a copy to the undersigned, on or before August 14, 2014, or be forever barred. Persons believed to be heirs or legatees of the decedent who do not receive a copy of this notice by mail within 25 days of its first publication shall so inform the Register of Wills, including name, address and relationship.

Date of Publication: February 14, 2014 Name of newspaper: Afro-American Washington Law Reporter

REGISTER OF WILLS

TYPESET: Feb 11 02/14, 02/21,Tue 02/28/14 Superior Court of the District of District of Columbia PROBATE DIVISION Washington, D.C. 20001-2131 Administration No. 2014ADM75 Norma Elizabeth Freeman Decedent NOTICE OF APPOINTMENT, NOTICE TO CREDITORS AND NOTICE TO UNKNOWN HEIRS Rhonda S. Jackson, whose address is 2404 Spencer Road, Silver Spring, MD 20910 was, were appointed personal representative of the estate of Norma Elizabeth Freeman, who died on December 10, 2013 with a Will and will serve without Court supervision. All unknown heirs and heirs whose whereabouts are unknown shall enter their appearance in this proceeding. Objections to such appointment (or to the probate of decedent´s will) shall be filed with the Register of Wills, D.C., 515 5th Street, N.W., 3rd Floor Wa s h i n g t o n , D . C .

20001, on or before August 14, 2014. Claims against the decedent shall be presented to the undersigned with a copy to the Register of Wills or filed with the Register of Wills with a copy to the undersigned, on or before August 14, 2014, or be forever barred. Persons believed to be heirs or legatees of the decedent who do not receive a copy of this notice by mail within 25 days of its first publication shall so inform the Register of Wills, including name, address and relationship.

Date of Publication: February 14, 2014 Name of newspaper: Afro-American Washington Law Reporter Rhonda S. Jackson Personal Representative TRUE TEST COPY REGISTER OF WILLS 02/14, 02/21, 02/28/14

SUPERIOR COURT OF THE DISTRICT OF COLUMBIA PROBATE DIVISION Washington, D.C. 20001-2131 Administration No. 2011ADM644 Estate of Audrey S. Douglas Deceased NOTICE OF STANDARD PROBATE Notice is hereby given that a petition has been filed in this Court by Kevin W. Douglas for standard probate, including the appoint-ment of one or more personal representative. Unless a complaint or an objection in accordance with Superior Court Probate Division Rule 407 is filed in this Court within 30 days from the date of first publication of this notice, the Court may take the action hereinafter set forth.

0 Admit to probate the will dated September 29,1978 exhibited with the petition upon proof satisfactory to the Court of due execution by affidavit of witnesses Register of Wills Clerk of the Probate Division Date of First Publication February 14, 2014 Names of Newspapers: Washington Law Reporter Washington AFRO-AMERICAN Bradley A. Thomas 4201 Connecticut Ave., NW, Suite 400 Washington, DC 20008 Signature of Petitioners/Attorney

TYPESET: Mon Jan 27 02,14 & 02/21/14

Superior Court of the District of District of Columbia PROBATE DIVISION Washington, D.C. 20001-2131 Administration No. 2014ADM26 Joyce Gaston Decedent Wesley L.Clarke 1629 K Street, Ste. 300 Washington, D.C. 20006 Attorney NOTICE OF 12:25:46 EST 2014 APPOINTMENT, NOTICE TO CREDITORS AND NOTICE TO UNKNOWN HEIRS Sterling Gaston, whose address is, 1406 Lawrence St, N. E., Washington D.C. 20017 was appointed personal representative of the estate of Joyce Gaston, who died on November 8, 2013 without a Will, and will serve without Court supervision. All unknown heirs and heirs whose whereabouts are unknown shall enter their appearance in this proceeding. Objections to such appointment shall be filed with the Register of Wills, D.C., 515 5th Street, N.W., 3rd Floor Washington, D.C. 20001, on or before July 31,2014. Claims against the decedent shall be presented to the undersigned with a copy to the Register of Wills or filed with the Register of Wills with a copy to the undersigned, on or before July 31, 2014, or be forever barred. Persons believed to be heirs or legatees of the decedent who do not receive a copy of this notice by mail within 25 days of its first publication shall so inform the Register of Wills, including name, address and relationship.

Date of Publication: January 31, 2014 Name of newspaper: Afro-American Washington Law Reporter Sterling Gaston Personal Representative TRUE TEST COPY REGISTER OF WILLS 01/31, 02/07, 02/14/14

Superior Court of the District of District of Columbia PROBATE DIVISION Washington, D.C. 20001-2131 Administration No. 2013ADM1176 Lillian F. James Decedent NOTICE OF APPOINTMENT, NOTICE TO CREDITORS AND NOTICE TO UNKNOWN HEIRS Robert N. James, whose address is 7916 Legation Rd, New Carrolton, MD 20784 was appointed personal representative of the estate of Lillian F. James , who died on March 31, 2001 without a Will, and will serve without Court supervision. All unknown heirs and heirs whose whereabouts are unknown shall enter their appearance in this proceeding. Objections to such appointment shall be filed with the Register of Wills, D.C., 515 5th Street, N.W., 3rd Floor Washington, D.C. 20001, on or before August 7, 2014. Claims against the decedent shall be presented to the undersigned with a copy to the Register of Wills or filed with the Register of Wills with a copy to the undersigned, on or before August 7, 2014, or be forever barred. Persons believed to be heirs or legatees of the decedent who do not receive a copy of this notice by mail within 25 days of its first publication shall so inform the Register of Wills, including name, address and relationship.

Date of Publication: February 7, 2014 Name of newspaper: 16:45:09 EST 2014 Afro-American Washington Law Reporter Robert N. James Personal Representative

To advertise in the AFRO Call 202-332-0080

TRUE TEST COPY REGISTER OF WILLS 02/07, 02/14, 02/21/14

CAREER CORNER Part-Time Sales Assistant

The AFRO-AMERICAN Newspapers is looking to hire a part-time Sales Assistant to join our DC office team located on Benning Road, NE in Washington, DC. This entry-level position has advancement opportunity and will provide administrative support for our Advertising Sales Department. Duties will include the following:

• Create master lists of media buyers, advertising

agencies, government agencies, etc... to generate leads & interest in The AFRO

• Create messages for e-blasts; do mail outs of media kits and other advertising information

• Provide standard administrative and office support • Provide exemplary customer service

Requirements

• Strong computer skills with proficiency in MS Office Suite

• Knowledge of the Greater DC Metro area • Ability to perform well both independently and as team member

• Ambitious & quick learner with

great timemanagement, organizational skills, detail oriented

• Previous administrative or sales support experience

YOU KNOW YOU’RE IN THE KNOW...

WHEN YOU READ THE AFRO

TYPESET: Tue Feb 04

02/07, 02/14, 02/21/14

B9

LEGAL NOTICES LEGALEST NOTICES LEGAL NOTICES LEGAL NOTICES TYPESET: Tue Feb 04 11:55:14 TYPESET: Tue 2014 Feb 11 12:24:14 EST 2014 TYPESET: Tue Feb 04 11:54:25 EST 2014 TYPESET: Tue Feb 11 12:25:29 EST 2014 TYPESET: Tue Feb 11 12:24:50 EST 2014 LEGAL NOTICES LEGALEST NOTICES TYPESET: Tue Feb 11 12:26:21 2014

SUPPORT OUR ADVERTISERS

TRUE TEST COPY REGISTER OF WILLS

February 15, 2014 - February 21, 2014 The Afro-American

SUBSCRIBE TODAY

known heirs and heirs whose where-abouts are unknown shall enter their appearance in this proceeding. Objections to such appointment shall be filed with the Register of Wills, D.C., 515 5th Street, N.W., 3rd LEGAL NOTICES Floor Washington, D.C. 20001, on or before August 7, 2014. Claims against the decedent shall be presented to the undersigned with a copy to the Register of Wills or filed with the Register of Wills with a copy to the undersigned, on or before August 7, 2014, or be forever barred. Persons believed to be heirs or legatees of the decedent who do not receive a copy of this notice by mail within 25 days of its first publication shall so inform the Register of Wills, including name, address and relationship.

Date of Publication: February 7, 2014 Name of newspaper: Afro-American Washington Law Reporter Barbara B. Carter Personal Representative

Please send your resume to:lhowze@afro.com Or mail to: Diane W. Hocker

Director of Human Resources

2519 N. Charles St.,

Baltimore, MD 21218

B10

The Afro-American, February 15, 2014 - February 21, 2014