Volume 119 No. 26 www.afro.

comFebruary 5, 2011 - February 5, 2011, The Afro-American

75 CENTS A1

FEBRUARY 5, 2011 - FEBRUARY 11, 2011

Queen of Comedy Serves Character Education Michael Williams Out

Up ‘Sommore’ Laughs B3 Special Section Insert Front for Tea Party A2
City Council Considers

AP Photo/Charlie Riedel
Changing Vacancy Process
By Shernay Williams to serve on the council’s vacancy
AFRO Staff Writer nominating committee.
Of those non-elected officials,
Three weeks after their contentious seven would be representatives from
appointment of William “Pete” the area’s community associations, two
Welch to his mother’s vacated ninth from faith-based organizations and two
district seat, City Council members more from business establishments.
are proposing changes to the vacancy Two city council persons from abutting
filling process. districts would also serve on the panel.
Council President Bernard C. During his introduction of the
“Jack” Young and Councilman proposal this week, Young said, “We
William H. Cole have introduced want to change the way we do business
a rule change that would require and show we are transparent.”
11 residents of the vacated district “After the experience filling Agnes
Welch’s vacant seat, we heard from
constituents who felt they weren’t a Congressman Emanuel Cleaver, shown with Missouri elementary school children in this March 4, 2005
part of the process,” he told the AFRO file photo, is the new chairman of the Congressional Black Caucus.
after the introduction, “and we felt

CBC Chair Shares Insight

the community should have a greater
role.”
In a 10-3 vote, council members
selected Welch to complete the

remainder of his mother’s city council
term after her abrupt retirement late
last year. The decision and entire
process, which placed the appointment
entirely in the hands of the council,
stirred a public outcry.
Under the proposed rule changes,
the standing city council president
AFRO file photo
would choose residents for the
Baltimore City Council President
nomination panel within one week of
Bernard Young is joined by
the vacancy. Representatives would
Councilman William H. Cole in
be selected from city planning’s list of
introducing a rule change for the
active community and improvement
filling of council seat vacancies.
Continued on A5
INSERT
• Character Education City Officials: Baltimore
Listen to “First Edition” Slots on Hold
By Shernay Williams
for Session
By Andrea L. “Aunni” Young
Special to the AFRO
The 112th Congress has
convened with a new chairman for
the Congressional Black Caucus,
Rep. Emanuel Cleaver II. Coming
to the House of Representatives
for his third term from Missouri’s
Fifth District, he serves on the
Marylanders green-lighted five slot
Financial Services Committee,
Homeland Security Committee and
the Speaker’s Select Committee on
Energy Independence and Global
Warming.
The Congressional Black
Caucus was formed in 1971 to
help improve the ability of Black
elected officials to support their
constituencies. It is also “at the
forefront of legislative campaigns
for human and civil rights for
all citizens,” according to the
organization’s website.
Shortly after taking the office of
chair, Rep. Cleaver answered a few
questions for the AFRO.
Q: What are some of the core
issues you would like to see the
CBC focus on during your term?
 
Chairman Cleaver: We are
going to help the president in his
goal of creating jobs. One of the
major problems with the last two
years is our inability to demonstrate
to the American public ... that
we were pushing for jobs. They
didn’t see it. We’ve got to support
the president on any plan that he
brings forth to create jobs. We will
begin this [immediately], sending
communications to the White
Continued on A5

Join Host Sean Yoes

AFRO Staff Writer parlors to open throughout the state
during a 2008 voter referendum. Yet, City Food Delivery Program
 Sunday @ 8 p.m. on
88.9 WEAA FM, the
As video game casinos continue to
pop up around Maryland – the most
recent opening just miles outside Ocean
only two have opened, the Hollywood
Casino in Perryville and the Casino at
Ocean Downs, five miles outside Ocean
Extends Services, Addresses
Voice of the Community. City earlier this month – the status of
Baltimore slots remains in limbo.
City.
The Baltimore casino, with a Health Disparities
City officials say they aren’t maximum of 3,750 slot terminals, By Shernay Williams habits, low income and limited
accepting bids for a Baltimore venue will open on a city-owned lot south of AFRO Staff Writer vehicle ownership. In these areas,
until a string of legal issues stemming M&T Bank Stadium on Russell Street. corner stores, which often sell pre-
Your History • Your Community • Your News
afro.com

from the last, and only, licensee are
cleared. That bidder, the Baltimore
Entertainment Group, has been
involved in two separate legal quarrels
with the slots commission and the city.
The commission terminated the group’s
contract for failing to meet
fee deadlines, prompting
the group to file an appeal
with the state and sue the
city.
Donald Fry, chairman
of the Video Lottery
Facility Location
Commission, said the state
should make a decision
in the case against the
commission within the
next few months. He is
confident they will rule in
his favor. “We hope to be
in a position to rebid as
soon as possible and we
are waiting to have just a
little more legal certainty
Baltimore is the only jurisdiction to
require a slots parlor on city grounds.
Mayoral spokesman Ryan O’Doherty
said the requirement allows the city
to generate funds by leasing the land,
Continued on A3
AFRO file photo
The city health commissioner
says the recent expansion of a
healthy foods program providing
low-income Baltimore residents
with easier access to produce and
quality fare is one of the city’s best
attempts to address grave health
disparities reported among city
neighborhoods.
On Jan. 31, Baltimore
officials announced that the city’s
virtual supermarket program
called Baltimarket, will expand
operations to its first school and
third library. The unique program,
which launched last March, allows
residents in “food deserts,” or
neighborhoods miles away from
supermarkets, to order and pick up
groceries at their local library.
Residents can now place food
orders at the George Washington
Elementary School and later
this month at the Enoch Pratt
Cherry Hill library. Originally, the
packaged or frozen goods, are the
only feasible food outlets.
Neighborhoods surrounding the
Orleans library have a whopping
15 corner stories, 40 carryouts,
six fast-food restaurants, but no
grocery stores, according to the
city Health Department. Likewise,
Washington Village has seven
corner stores, 11 carry-outs, two
fast food restaurants and not one
supermarket.
With such limited food options,
residents are more likely to face
health disparities. As an example,
Washington Village has the city’s
sixth highest mortality rate for
health-related complications
including heart disease, stroke and
diabetes.
Cherry Hill has the third
highest heart disease mortality
rate. Ninety-seven percent of
their residents are Black and over
60 percent don’t have access to

before we issue a new
request for proposal,” he
said.
A spokesman for
Mayor Stephanie
Rawlings-Blake said
the city’s suit should be
settled within a matter of
Join the AFRO on weeks.
Twitter and Facebook
virtual market was exclusively
for residents in the Jonestown,
Oldtown, Perkins, Middle East and
Washington Village communities
The process for opening a video gaming facility through the Enoch Pratt’s Orleans
in Baltimore is on hold, awaiting a ruling and Washington Village libraries.
from the state on the appeal of the previous The food delivery model is
bidder. Once that is decided, a new request for offered in neighborhoods where
proposals will be issued to restart the process. residents have proven poor diet
a vehicle, which means they are
less likely to travel outside the
neighborhood for quality food.
Yet, the closest grocery store is
over two miles away.
In all the program target areas
except Washington Village, the
populations are over 80 percent
Continued on A4

Copyright © 2011 by the Afro-American Company

A2 The Afro-American, February 5, 2011 - February 11, 2011

AFRO National Briefs

Bow-Tied Cowboy Carries the U.S. Senate. The bow
and cowboy boots. He has
dismissed global warning as a
problem and wants a limited
being treated for drug and
alcohol dependency and left
the Origins Recovery Center
role for the Environmental in Texas against the advice of
Tea Party Backing in Run tie-clad, boot-shod Black
Protection Agency, endorses his doctors. His treatment at
for Senate Texan said Jan. 25 that he
oil drilling in the Gulf of the facility was funded by the
Retiring Texas Railroad wants to bring his starkly
Mexico and along both the “Dr. Phil” TV show, which
Commissioner and tea party conservative views—
East and West coasts and released a statement following
favorite Michael Williams including no preferential
favors strict controls on his leave, according to CBS
has decided to run for treatment for Blacks in higher
immigration. News.
“We’ve got to go and drill “Ted was given the chance
for American energy wherever to voluntarily enter a drug
we have American energy. Courtesy Photo rehabilitation facility in order
Your History • Your Community • Your News
The Afro-American Newspapers We’ve got to drill for it on to help him deal with his
David Kato
Baltimore Office • Corporate Headquarters the west coast, the east coast, dependency on drugs and
2519 N. Charles Street the eastern part of the Gulf of T-shirts with Kato’s picture alcohol. In that it is voluntary,
Baltimore, Maryland 21218-4602 Courtesy Photo
Mexico, the Rocky Mountains on them, stormed the podium, the decision to remain in
410-554-8200 • Fax: 1-877-570-9297
www.afro.com Michael Williams and oh by the way, drill in grabbing the microphone. treatment is Ted’s to make,”
Founded by John Henry Murphy Sr., August 13, 1892 [Alaska],” Williams said at a Condemnation of Kato’s the statement read in part.
Washington Publisher Emerita - Frances L. Murphy II education, acceleration of oil Conservative Political Action death is strong in Uganda’s “We certainly hope that he
exploration in coastal areas Conference, according to The gay community, with many continues his commitment to
Chairman of the Board/Publisher - John J. Oliver, Jr. and a reduced role for the Dallas Morning News. blaming it on hatred, while sobriety, and we will continue
Executive Assistant - Takiea Hinton - 410-554-8222
federal government in public “We’ve got to bring the the authorities called the death to help and support him in
Receptionist - Wanda Pearson - 410-554-8200 policy—to the Senate. nukes back. We haven’t built the result of a robbery. any way that we can. We wish
Director of Advertising/Sponsorship Development & Sales
If successful, he would be a nuclear power plant since “David’s death is a result him well.”
Susan Gould - 410-554-8289 the first African-American 1979.” of the hatred planted in Sources told TMZ that
susangould@afro.com Republican senator in Uganda by U.S. evangelicals Williams left the rehab
Advertising Manager - Robert Blount - 410-554-8246
Sr. Advertising Account Executive - Annie Russ - 410-554-8235 over 30 years. The last Ugandan Gay Rights in 2009,” Val Kalende, center and was on his way to
Advertising Account Executive Black Republican senator Activist Beaten to Death the chairwoman of one of the airport. The report also
Marquise Goodwin - 410-554-8274
was Edward Brooke of Violence erupted in Uganda’s gay rights groups, revealed that his girlfriend is
Director of Finance - Jack Leister - 410-554-8242 Massachusetts, who lost a re- Mukono, Uganda at the said in a statement to the New currently receiving treatment
election bid in 1978. funeral of gay rights advocate York Times. “The Ugandan at a rehab center in Costa
Archivist - John Gartrell - 410-554-8265
Williams announced his David Kato, two days government and the so-called Mesa, Calif.
Director, Community & Public Relations retirement from the railroad after the Ugandan activist U.S. evangelicals must take Williams, 53, became
commission Jan. 24, after 11
Diane W. Hocker - 410-554-8243
was beaten to death with a responsibility for David’s an Internet sensation after a
Editorial years in the post. hammer Jan. 26. blood.” Columbus Dispatch reporter
Executive Editor - Talibah Chikwendu - 410-554-8251
E-mail: editor@afro.com
Williams adopted the The religious rite was Kalende believes Kato’s filmed him panhandling on
Baltimore Bureau Chief - Tiffany Ginyard - 410-554-8269 bow-ties and boots as a prank punctuated by a denunciation picture in a Ugandan the side of the road, according
Managing Editor - Kristin Gray - 410-554-8277 while serving as assistant of homosexuality from the newspaper in October with to CNN. After the video was
Washington Bureau Chief - Zenitha Prince - 202-332-0080, ext. 119
secretary of education in the pulpit by the pastor, and the the words “Hang Them” posted on the popular video
Global Markets 1990s for President George refusal of congregants in the printed next to it led to site YouTube, the homeless
Director - Benjamin M. Phillips IV - 410-554-8220 H.W. Bush as a way of easing village to bury Kato. Kato’s death. The Ugandan Williams became the subject
tension when he appeared
bphillips@afro.com
Washington Circulation/Distribution Manager “The world has gone parliament is considering of several news stories as
Edgar Brookins - 202-332-0080, ext. 116 before a Senate committee crazy,” the pastor said, making homosexuality a people across the nation
Baltimore Circulation/Distribution Manager
Sammy Graham - 410-554-8266
hearing in front of hostile according to Reuters. “People crime punishable by death. became fascinated with his
Democrats. are turning away from the deep baritone voice and his
Production Department - 410-554-8288 “I wanted to bring a scriptures. They should turn ‘Golden Voice’ Ted Williams intriguing story.
Washington Office light moment to the hearing, back, they should abandon Checks Out of Rehab
be humorous,” he told the

AP Photo/Drew
1917 Benning Road, N.E. • Washington, D.C. 20002-4723 what they are doing. You Ted Williams, the
202-332-0080 Fax: 1-877-570-9297 website The Daily Beast. “We cannot start admiring a fellow homeless man who rose to
General Manager
Edgar Brookins - ext. 116 had a very confrontational man.” fame in early January for his
Office Administrator - Mia Hayes-Hawkins - ext. 112 hearing anyway. But I had Those statements drew a “golden voice,” reportedly left
Customer Service, Home Delivery and Subscriptions:
bought all these bow ties….” sharp reaction from a crowd substance abuse rehab after
410-554-8234 But the buzz about of 300 people that included receiving less than two weeks
Customer Service@afro.com Williams goes beyond about 100 gay supporters. of treatment. According to a
Billing Inquiries: 410-554-8226 conservative neckware Gay activists, some wearing
T:11 in
report by TMZ, Williams was Ted Williams
Nights and Weekends: 410-554-8282

Everyone has
the power to
make history.
We honor Black History Month by encouraging
the dreams of our communities.
T:10 in

Learn more at www.comcast.com/diversity

 November 1, 2008 - November 7, 2008, The Washington Afro-American A3

Jennifer Hudson and Relatives Identify Body of Her Slain NephewA3

A2 The Afro-American, February 5, 2011 - February 5, 2011 February 5, 2011 - February 11, 2011, The Afro-American

Y of Central MD to Renovate Druid Hill Center, Honor King

By Alan King sport-utility vehicle sought in from a neighbor about a suspi- posted fliers bearing his photo-
AFRO Staff Writer connection with the murder of cious vehicle. The man noticed graph around the city. On
Hudson’s mother and brother. the vehicle while walking his Sunday, Jennifer Hudson asked
Jennifer Hudson and other The white, 1994 Chevrolet dog. According to the Chicago for the public’s help in finding
relatives
By Shernay positively
Williamsidentified the Y of Central
Suburban with Illinois Maryland,
license last year,the
Tribune, when
boy city
had volunteers
been shot King Jr.’s name hosted the Druid Hill Y created art herHe said the
nephew. In center is
her MySpace
AFRO Staff Writer is dedicating proceeds from helped renovate the
multiple times in the back seat at rotating family centers projects, including paper expounding the “meat
blog, she thanked fans and sup-
their annual fundraiser to gymnasium, fitness center and
of the vehicle. The SUV, regis- and featuring a prominent cranes and a quilt that are and potatoes
porters for theirof youth
prayers and
Instead of roaming begin the final phase of several
tered other rooms.
to Hudson’s Through
murdered speaker. This year’s event, readily displayed throughout development,” withreward
offered a $100,000 its career
to
Baltimore City’s streets last restoration for the family brother, was towed with the
the Central Y’s fundraiser held Jan. 29 in the newly the center. The large anyone who returned
training programs for high- the boy
Halloween, Kenneth Franklin, center. boy’s body inside
and in-kind and isthey
donations, being renovated gymnasium at the colorful quilt, embellished alive.
achieving young people,
processed by evidence techni- Since the investigation,
a 17-year-old Upland resident, “It’s a very old building raised $300,000 for the Druid Hill Y, featured Dr. with jewels, glitter and summer camps for homeless
cians and workers. The body Hudson – who gained stardom
spent his holiday evening but we’ve done a good job of renewal projects and several Carnell Cooper, a surgery empowering words including teens and mentorship and
was later removed and taken to after appearing on “American
playing basketball and lifting maintaining it,” said Gregg Baltimore-area
the Cook Countycontractors
Medical professor and the founder of “Beautiful” and “Dignity,” health and then
Idol,” and wellness
won services.
an
weights in his neighborhood Phillips, the Druid Hill Y donated
Examiner’s services.
office. the Baltimore City Violence hangs on a side wall in the “But with this revitalization,
Academy Award for her role in
Druid Hill Y Center. Center’s executive director. Upon completion
Hudson of the
and other family Protection Program. gymnasium. Several Chinese we
the are getting
movie the building
Dreamgirls – has
The decision may have The center needs refurbished members arrived at the Medical ready
stayedtooutmeet thepublic
of the expectations
eye.
saved his young life.
Days later, Franklin
restrooms, plumbing upgrades
and a modernized family
“…with this revitalization, we are getting the building ready to
Examiner’s office mid-after-
Julian King, Jennnifer Hudson’s nephew.
andThe
set the
service,”
cultural
Chicago tone for
Tribune
he concluded.
report-
noon to identify the body. ed that a parade of cars moved
discovered that one of his game room – constructions meet the expectations and set the cultural tone for service.”
Given the choice between look- Meanwhile,
slowly Franklinhome
past her family’s
fellow Y friends had been that will begin next month as ing directly at the body or A spokesman for the office the murders but is being held in says Mondaythe center
morning, remains
past the
shot and killed Halloween soon as they raise funds, he final phase
viewing it onofathe Druid Hill
wall-mounted toldCooper
the newspaper
said toothat
manyHudson paper
jail forcranes
parolewith
violation
wishesafter his
newsanchor
vans,and venueand
reporters of curi-
night. “That could’ve been said. Courtesy Photos
revitalization, the center will young people repeatedly interpreting MLK’s legacy choice. He’s a ous member of the
onlookers.
me, if I hadn’t come here,” Y leaders are also hoping spill growth and enrichment come into his hospital bearing etched inside, hang from the Success Academy Program
Jennifer
the young
was
Hudson
killed,man as well
and
said of ashis
her mom, Darnell
to garner
her brother, Jason.
Donerson
additional funding
who “She held hands with her family. It was obviously a very emotional moment.”
efforts into the surrounding bullet or stab wounds. center’s lobby ceiling.
Neighbors
for troubled youth who are
quietly and
stood

after-school hub for the last to create a youth-operated community, commencing “Maybe with the right
“remained strong for her fami-support Y officials say the Druid
being convicted of attempted chronically suspended
reflected from
on the
three years. radio station at the behest of video screen,projects
community the family
sixchose services (like the Druid Hill Hill Center violence.
plate X584859 ly” and was clearly its leader. murder and will continue
vehicular to
hijack- school and participates in
the body of her 7-year-old
Yet Franklin’s safe haven residents in thewas found on
surrounding the latter. According
blocks in every directionto the– Y) weheld
“She canhands
intervene
with and
her fami- be
ing.a Cook
beacon of hope
County
In front and
for itsshow leadership
records
of the Hudson’s
character
nephew Monday, just hours Chicago’s
and the recreational mecca for community who suggested the
West Side after Tribune, Hudson said,
planting trees and picking
“Yes, maybe
home, men in heavy jackets
after his body was found in a police received a 7 a.m. call that’s him.” ly,” the save their life,”
spokesman said.he
“Itsaid 2,000
that hemembers. “If you
pleaded guilty look
to both development training. He still
and hooded sweatshirts came to
many area youth is housed in station when the Druid Hill up trash during a weeklong at the
was breakfast.
obviously a very emotional at King’sinlegacy,
charges 1999. Hethere
wasare
also visits the center outside of
kiss the twin white crosses bar-
a dated building that, though Center sent out input surveys celebratory event in April. As part of the words thatincome
1998toformind – program hours.of Donerson and

ACORN Fights Back

moment.” convicted posses- ing the names
historic, is in dire need of three years ago. The parent Y’s major redevelopment
The boy – theproject
son of Julia justice,
sion of alove andmotor
stolen service,”
vehicle. “I
Jason. come because I know
renovations. Realizing the Dr. Mel Brennan, funding source is a yearly and celebration
Hudson, Jennifer’sof sister
MLK’s – had Brennan said. “This
He was released fromisprison
a call in this“Everybody
is the next safest
is sickplace to
of going
necessity to preserve the district executive director of breakfast in Martin Luther birthday,
been active
missing youth
since of
Friday, to service.”
2006 after serving seven years be besides home,” he said.
Leader Calls Voter Registration Fraud Charges ‘Bogus’
through stuff like this,” Artisha
Druid Hill Y – one of the Baltimore City Y Centers, when a relative found Julian’s for the attempted murder and West, a former resident of the
oldest in the country and in said Druid Hill’s neighbors grandmother, Darnell car hijacking charges. area told the Tribune. “We all
By
1918AlantheKing
only venue with and
are Dallas
stakeholdersCowboys in players
its No wonder Obama’s campaign is Donerson, 57, and his uncle, The boy remained missing have to stick together. All these
AFRO Staff Writer
a colored-only swimming Tony Romo and
development. The center’s Terrell Owens, trying to distance him from the Jason Hudson, 29, shot to death through a long weekend in young children are dying, and
among the names submitted to group, saying, “Barack Obama in his grandmother’s home in which police and volunteers
pool – its parent organization, revitalization projects began for what?”
Presidential candidate John election officials. Never Organized with ACORN.” the 7000 block of South Yale
McCain’s attack on ACORN – Hurd said those workers, who But Obama’s ties to ACORN run

Slots
Avenue.
Associated Community location
were doing and we things
those are very without long and deep. He taught classes An Amber Alert – a desig-
Organization for Reform Now – hopeful that
ACORN’s knowledge when weorare in a
permis- for ACORN. They even endorsed nation for high-risk missing
confirms the success of the position
sion, weretofired. rebid that we will him for President. children – was issued Friday
Continued
organization,from A1 of the
the head have“Thea number
evidenceofthat bids hasthat
sur- But now ACORN is in trouble. after Julian was discovered
creating
group says. a “real potential for qualify,”
faced so far Fry said.they faked
shows Reporter: There are at least missing after the murders.
property
“This istax relief.” to the work forms
testimony O’Doherty
to get paidsaid he expects
for work they 11 investigations across the Police arrested William
Thedone
we’ve Baltimore
and success we’ve more
didn’t bidder
do, not interest because
to stuff ballot country involving thousands of Balfour, the missing boy’s step-
Development
had,” Maude Hurd, Corporation
president of of the improving
boxes.” ACORN, she economy
said, is the potentially fraudulent ACORN father and estranged husband
has hired an independent
ACORN, said in an interview and the city’s streamlined
victim of fraud, not the perpetra- forms. of Julia, at his girlfriend’s
consultant to evaluate revenue proposal process. During
with the AFRO. tor of it. Announcer: Massive voter Southside apartment several

Saving money.
“When this
projections and attack started, we theHurd
determine said the only
first bidding, things
potential fraud. And the Obama campaign hours after the murders.
had just announced that we had bogus are the charges
investors criticized the city’s them- paid more than $800,000 to an
a competitive lease asking Balfour’s mother, Michele, has
registered 1.3 million new vot- selves. And factcheck. org ACORN front for get out the vote
price, O’Doherty said. The lack of transparency about told reporters that her son had
ers,” she said. “That’s just to say agrees.
requirements
that someone’smay
previous proposal,
runningmirror
he
scared
added,
the which
be
parcels of“Neither
It concluded,
available. “It
land would
was a lesson
efforts.
So easy you can do it
Pressuring banks to issue risky
nothing to do with the slayings.
Balfour remains a suspect in Jason Hudson
because of ACORN’s success.” ACORN nor its employees have loans. Nationwide voter fraud.
butMcCain,
it was important
apresident
competitiveon thenew
to
who is running for craft
contracttick-
Republican to
learned,”
charged
he
Cryor,
said.
been found guilty of, or even
Mikewith, a Baltimore
casting fraudulent
in your...well you know.
Barack Obama. Bad judgment.
Blind ambition. Too risky for
attract
et, lashedbidders.
out at ACORN in the businessman
votes.” and community America.
finalProjected revenue
debate against Barack for activist,
The problemsaid hecame has beenabout pri-
the Baltimore
Obama, contending casino theisgroup “is following
marily because the Baltimore
of the way Since McCain’s comments, SQUARE HIGH
contingent
on the vergeupon of maybe perpetrat- casino
the details ACORNdevelopments
operates. Rather and than ACORN’s 87 offices have been
of
ingthe
onewinning contract,
of the greatest fraudsbutin is considering
rely on volunteers, a bid. He peo-
it pays bombarded with threats and
Sen.
voterCatherine
history in this Pugh, D-40,
country, is
ple,waiting
many offorthem the poor
state’sor unem- racist mail.
says the city will collect about proposal before he makes a
maybe destroying the fabric of ployed, to sign up new voters. The day after the presidential
$12 to $20 million in state tax final
democracy.” The ideadecision,
was to he helpsaid.
both those debate, vandals broke into the
Factcheck.org,
revenue. Maryland casinos a non-partisan being registered and
And new potential bidders those doing organization’s Boston and Seattle
Web site, found those claims to the registration. offices and stole computers.
must give the state 67 percent have emerged, including BREAD NOT ON THE LIST
be “exaggerated,” with “no evi- Maud explained, “We have a After a Cleveland representative
of their profit. Baltimore attorney Hassan
dence of any such democracy- zero tolerance policy for deliber- appeared on TV, an e-mail was
Maryland’s first casino, Murphy.
ate falsificationMediaofoutlets have
registration.” sent to the local office saying she
destroying fraud.”
the Hurd
Hollywood Casino
believes the McCain in reported that Murphy,
Most news account neglect to the “is going to have her life ended.”
Perryville,
charges werehas generated
politically motivat- great-great
point out thatgrandson ACORN is of the A worker in Providence, R.I.,
$27.5
ed. million in revenue since AFRO’s
required byfounder,
law to has
turn hired
in a
all reg- received a threatening call say- LEFT RIGHT
it opened
She said, in “Because
September. it’s When
low- General Assembly
istration forms. And theylobbyist
also fail ing, “We know you get off work
the
andfive slot parlors are
moderate-income intact, and
people, created
to note that itawas group called
the organiza- at 9” and uttered racial epithets.
they are expected
and people of color,toI believe
bring the the Charm
tion, in manyCity Development
instances, that first and A caller to one office left a
state
McCain $600 millionthinks
campaign a year. those Gaming
brought the lastphony
November in
registrations message on the answering
Once
voters arethe
goingslots commission preparation
to vote to the attention forofthe Baltimore
authorities. machine, saying: “Hi, I was just
releases a request for
Democratic, which is not neces- bidding. “In the interim,
The McCain camp we
apparently calling to let you know that
Baltimore proposals, potential are gathering information
sarily true.” isn’t interested in those fine Barack Obama needs to get
ACORN
licensees is noroughly
have stranger13 to points,
and preferring
trying to figureto airoutmislead-
if it’s hung. He’s a (expletive deleted)
controversy.
weeks to respond and submit going to be worth the Obama
ing ads that seek to link time, nigger, and he’s a piece of
For 38 years, the non-partisan effort to ACORN, thereby undercutting (expletive deleted). You guys are
a $3 million initial licensing and money,” Murphy
organization has fought for social his political support. fraudulent, and you need to go to
fee and $25 million in told the AFRO.
and economic justice for low- McCain: I’m John McCain hell. All the niggers on oak trees.
construction
and moderate-income costs for every andMeanwhile,
I approve thisthe State
message. They’re gonna get all hung hon-
500 machines.
Americans. With 400,000 mem- Legislature is considering
Announcer: Who is Barack eys, they’re going to get assassi-
1 BANANA

berFry, whose
families office into
organized choosesmore revising
Obama? Abidding man with laws “a to allow
political nated, they’re gonna get killed.”
the
thanoperator, said the selection
1,200 neighborhood chap- developers
baptism performed to ownatmore warpthan Another message said, “You
process
ters in 110could
citiestake 6-8 months one
nationwide, casino.
speed.” Vast ambition. After col- liberal idiots. Dumb (expletive
as the slots
ACORN over the years seen lege,The
hascommission state istoalso
he moved looking
Chicago. deleted). Welfare bums. You
conducts
its share ofancriticism
extensive while advo- for acceptable
Became a community bids in Western
organizer. guys just (expletive deleted)
reviewing process, housing,
cating for affordable including Maryland’s
There, ObamaRocky Gap, while
met Madeleine come to our country, consume
criminal
living wages,background
healthcarechecks. for the investors
Talbot, partare of pushing
the Chicago for slots every natural resource there is,
He said he hopes to expedite
underserved— and while organ- in other locations He
branch of ACORN. including
was so and make a lot of babies. That’s
the
izingprocess.
voter registration drives. Prince
impressive George’s
that he County
was asked and
to all you guys do. And then suck
ButCommission
none has beenofficials
as withering say train the ACORN
Ellicott City. Maryland law staff. up the welfare and expect every-
and baseless as this one. Whatrequire
would did ACORN a nodinfrom Chicago one else to pay for your hospital
they are constantly receiving
With the presidential election voters engage in? Bullying banks. bills for your kids. I jus’ say let
inquiries from potential for slots to open in Before age five, every room is a classroom.
less than two weeks away, Intimidation tactics. Disruption your kids die. That’s the best
investors curious when the these
of business.locals.
new ACORNAforced third move. Just let your children die.
ACORN’s detractors allege the
bidding process will begin. casino
organization has engaged in mas- banks to issue risky home is expected to premiere
loans. Forget about paying for hospital
Fun learning opportunities are everywhere. Simple things like
counting and identifying shapes activate a child’s learning ability,
sive voter registration fraud after The same types of loans thatin
“There does seem to be near Arundel Mills Mall bills for them. I’m not gonna do and help them enter school more prepared. That’s why PNC
athe
renewed
reportedand increased
discovery of bogus Anne
causedArundel
the financial County crisislater
we’re it. You guys are lowlifes. And I
interest in the this year. founded Grow Up Great and its Spanish-language equivalent Crezca
names, such as Baltimore
Mickey Mouse City in today. hope you all die.”
con Éxito, a 10-year, $100 million program to help prepare young
Hurd thinks the hate calls will
children for school and life. Pick up a free bilingual Sesame Street™
cease soon.
“Happy, Healthy, Ready for School” kit at a PNC branch. It’s filled
“In two weeks, I think these
attacks will be over. But I think it with all kinds of simple, everyday things you can do to help a child
will be harder for us to get our learn. Together, we can work with our communities so an entire
name back on good graces generation won’t just grow up... but grow up great.
Identification Statements Savings Solutions. The only thing better than saving money is saving without ever thinking
Baltimore Afro-American — (USPS 040-800) is published weekly by The Afro-American because they really trashed us in
Newspapers, 2519 N. Charles Street, Baltimore, MD 21218-4602. Subscription Rate: the lastabout it. People who know and appreciate this know to bank with SunTrust. That’s because
few weeks.” To find out more, go to pncgrowupgreat.com
Baltimore - 1 Year - $30.00 (Price includes tax.) Checks for subscriptions should be made ButSunTrust
ACORNlistens
will notand
be develops a variety of customized solutions that make saving money not
payable to: The Afro-American Newspaper Company, 2519 N. Charles Street, Baltimore, MD or call 1-877-PNC-GROW.
21218-4602. Periodicals postage paid at Baltimore, MD. deterred.
only safe and secure, but totally and completely effortless as well. Stop by any branch to
POSTMASTER: Send addresses changes to: The Afro-American Newspaper Company, 2519 “We’ve been fighting for a
speak with a SunTrust representative, call 800.SUNTRUST or visit suntrust.com/solid.
N. Charles Street, Baltimore, MD 21218-4602. long time, for over 30 years, for
The Washington Afro-American & Washington Tribune — (0276-6523) is published
the rights of low- and moderate-
weekly by the Afro-American Newspapers at 1917 Benning Road, N.E., Washington, D.C. income people all across the
20002-4723. Subscription Rate: Washington - 1 Year - $30.00. Periodical Postage paid country,” Hurd said. “We’re
at Washington, D.C.
going to continue to fight for
POSTMASTER: Send addresses changes to: The Washington Afro-American economic justice in our commu-
& Washington Tribune, 2519 N. Charles Street, Baltimore, MD 21218-4602. SunTrust Bank, Member FDIC. © 2011 SunTrust Banks, Inc. SunTrust and Live Solid. Bank Solid. are federally registered service marks of SunTrust Banks, Inc.
nities.” TM /©2008 Sesame Workshop. All rights reserved. ©2008 The PNC Financial Services Group, Inc. All rights reserved.

54688-11_BGA106_PA_AASavingsv1_131SVBWB_7.1875x14_B_v4.indd 1
131SVBWB 1/27/11 9:16 AM
A4 The Afro-American, February 5, 2011 - February 11, 2011
Morgan President Proposes 10-Year Strategic Plan
By Shernay Williams
AFRO Staff Writer
Commencing his first full
semester post-inauguration,
Morgan State University
President Dr. David Wilson
unveiled a strategic plan
intended to spearhead
infrastructure upgrades,
encourage community
development and double
student enrollment over the
next 10 years.
The newly minted leader,
who was inaugurated last
October, said his plan
will boost enrollment by
expanding competitive
research and academic
programs, increasing
online degree options and
streamlining agreements with
local community colleges.
“Now more than ever,
Morgan has numerous
opportunities to become
a viable economic
Balanced.
Morally centered.
Responsive.
Coeducational.
Sarah Lewin ’09
Brown University ’13
• Majoring in math
• Member of an
improvisational
theater company
• Research assistant,
Johns Hopkins
School of Engineering
(Summers 2007-09)
• 2009 FS Mixed
Chorus Award
engine of growth that
increases employment
opportunities, stimulates
local redevelopment and
draws renewed investments
and businesses to the
neighborhoods surrounding
the campus,” Wilson said.
“Morgan will fully embrace
its mission as Maryland’s
public urban university.”
His proposals come as
Morgan celebrates record
enrollment of nearly 8,000
students. Morgan’s new
Alabama-born leader says he
predicts even higher student
numbers in coming years.
Wilson, 54, said his
comprehensive plan
incorporates capital facility
improvements, including a
renovated conference center
and new student housing, as
well as increased study abroad
opportunities. He also intends
to build an Office of Research
to “protect innovation” and
February 5, 2011 - February 5, 2011, The Afro-American
Courtesy Photos
Faculty and staff braved the icy weather to come out and
hear Dr. Wilson’s vision for the university
Roughly 15 percent of Blacks
who graduate with doctoral
degrees in math earned their
Morgan President Dr. undergraduate degree from
David Wilson unveiled Morgan, he said.
his strategic plan for the University officials said
university. the 10-year strategic plan
invest in science, technology, called “Growing the Future,
engineering and mathematics Leading the World,” will
programs to prepare the commence over the next
next generation of minority nine months. Wilson has
scientists and innovators. already appointed a steering
Morgan is already
City Food Delivery Program
producing a substantial
number of mathematicians,
he said during his address
to faculty earlier this month. Continued from A1
Black. Washington Village is
44 percent Black.
Join us for According to a health
“Lunch and Learn” disparities report recently
with the Head of School released by the city Health
Observe classes, speak Department, Blacks fared
with students, meet faculty
worse than Whites in several
health indicators including
and administrators.
life expectancy and infant
Next sessions: February 8
mortality last year, and the
and April 13. Visit city as a whole lagged behind
friendsbalt.org or call the state for its large health
410.649.3211 to register. gaps between communities.
Some city neighborhoods
have health disparities
comparable to developing
countries, including Hollins
Market, whose residents live
Johari Frasier ’09
about 63 years – one year less
M.I.T. ’13
than persons are expected
• Majoring in physics
• Hopes to be a professor to live in Pakistan. What’s
• Teaches a voice acting more, the life expectancy
seminar to Boston-area for Hollins Market residents
high school students is 20 years less than those
• FS Wind from the affluent Roland Park
Ensemble, neighborhood.
trumpeter At a public hearing last
month, Health Commissioner
Oxiris Barbot reported that
Black babies are dying at
twice the rate of white babies,
but researchers only vetting
race inequities, miss the
underlying health disparities.
High concentrations of
vacant properties, liquor
committee – comprised of
school administrators, alumni,
and community and business
leaders –to oversee the
endeavor.
According to a project
timeline posted on the
university’s website, the
committee presented a
blueprint of the plan to the
Board of Regents last October.
They will reveal a preliminary
In this March 2010 AFRO file photo, members of the
community participate in the virtual supermarket kick-
off. The success of the program has led the city to secure
funds to expand it into other areas, which will help close
the gap for healthy food choices.
stores and overall poorly
managed neighborhoods
pose the core health risks,
she noted. Vacant homes
are associated with higher
counts of cardiovascular
disease, premature deaths,
sexually transmitted diseases
and homicides. Further, if
an individual’s income is
$15,000 or less, they are twice
as likely to have diseases such
as diabetes. “We must address
inequities in neighborhood
conditions in order to improve
health conditions in the city,”
Barbot said.
The city health report gave
Baltimore a ‘D’ for overall
health of its residents. “There
is no quick fix for these
issues,” Barbot said. “Part of
what we are trying to do is
create urgency.”
She noted that cross-sector
action is essential to eliminate
the disparities because health
is the product of overall
quality living conditions and
opportunities.
Programs such as the
virtual supermarket, which
A3
outline to university
stakeholders as early as April,
and the Board of Regents will
consider the plan in August.
Prior to serving as
Morgan’s head, Wilson was
chancellor of the University
of Wisconsin Colleges and
the University of Wisconsin-
Extension, an effort that
applies university research to
neighboring communities.
Wilson is calling on the
state of Maryland, federal
government, MSU alumni
and philanthropic groups to
increase financial assistance to
implement Morgan’s strategic
agenda.
“There is no way the
nation is going to go where
it needs to go without us,” he
said.
Photo by Anderson Ward
target enclaves with the
greatest disparities, are a
great start, she said. To date,
Baltimarket, and its free
food delivery, has served
65 customers and ordered
$10,000 worth of groceries
from Santoni’s Supermarket
in Highlandtown – the
program’s exclusive grocer.
And half of customers come
back, said program officials.
The food delivery
model offers incentives for
customers to purchase healthy
foods, and participating
libraries often host healthy
cooking demonstrations and
give out recipe books.
The effort, originally
supported through a federal
stimulus grant, ran out of
funding in December, but
donations totaling over
$150,000 from Wal-Mart
and United Way of Central
Maryland allowed its
expansion.
Baltimore’s communities
with scarce food options
“deserve no less,” Barbot
said.
A4 The Afro-American, February 5, 2011 - February 5, 2011 February 5, 2011 - February 11, 2011, The Afro-American A5

Remembering Leon Earl Wynter

He once wrote, “I’m just in
time to discover that life is not
about being current; it’s about
being present with God for my

Aug. 30, 1953 – Jan. 18, 2011
After a prolonged, but
valiant struggle with brain
cancer that first began on New
Year’s Eve going into 2009,
Leon Earl Wynter passed
away on Tuesday, Jan. 18,
2011. He was 57 years old.
He described himself
as “first a Christian, then
American and Black by way
of his Jamaican heritage.”
Born in 1953, Leon grew
up in the Bronx, N.Y., and was
fond of saying that he arrived
“just in time for most of the
things that mattered: the space
race, the triumph of the civil
rights movement, disco, cable
and the Macintosh computer.”
Leon proudly received
his undergraduate degree in
psychology from Yale in 1974,
and his master’s of business
administration in economics
from New York University’s
Stern School of Business in
1979.
After exploring the world
of commercial banking,
he entered journalism as a
Washington Post staff reporter
in 1980, where he covered
education and racial change
in suburban Prince George’s
County, Md.
He later joined the Wall
Street Journal’s Washington
bureau in 1984, and covered
the federal banking beat on
Capitol Hill, as well as federal
telecommunication and
technology policy. He then
created and wrote a monthly
column for the Wall Street
Journal called “Business &
Race.” He considered the
title alone as a victory, and
he wrote it for 10 years, from
1989 to 1999.
Leon will be remembered
as a former Cub Scout, a
childhood classmate, a life-
long confidante, and the
closest of friends. In time,
that same young man would
grow to become an acclaimed
voice on the racial and ethnic
transformation of American
identity for over 20 years
as a journalist, essayist,
commentator, speaker and an
author.
As a sought-after public
speaker, Leon shared his
perspectives with strategic
marketers at Time-Warner,
Pepsico, Glaxo SmithKline,
Cox Cable and the Strategic
Research Institute. His
commentaries on race, popular
culture and “life observed”
were frequently heard on
National Public Radio’s
“All Things Considered”
beginning in 1993. He also
published at least two dozen
essays in newspapers and
magazines including the Wall
Street Journal, Savoy, the
Washington Post and New
York Newsday, among others.
Then he realized a major
milestone in his life. His first
book, American Skin: Big
Business, Pop Culture and the
End of White America, was
published in August 2002.
The book was heralded with
strong reviews in many of the
leading newspapers around
the country.
He followed that with yet
another book in 2007 …And
I Haven’t Had A Bad Day
Since, the memoir of co-writer
Rep. Charles B. Rangel, of
Harlem, former chairman of
the House Ways and Means
committee. At some point
during this affiliation, Leon
would later accept a position
with the Harlem Community
Development Corporation
where he served as director of
communications.
He understood that there
were more books to write. He
had more books in him… but
it was not to be.
Leon loved pop culture,
marketing, music, sports,
sailing, politics, advertising,
Courtesy photo
Leon Earl Wynter,
1953 - 2011
digital technology in general,
and his Apple computers
specifically. He loved New
York City, his great many
friends, his family, and he
loved his daughter Grace.
Friends and well-wishers
knew him as one of the Valley
elite, a committed Christian,
a professor of journalism,
an elder of the Presbyterian
Church, an enthusiastic
blogger, an evolving musician,
a lover of Public Radio, a
tireless debater, and someone
capable of great passions.
child and my loved ones.” At
the end, he was both content
and resolved that he would
soon be “present with God.”
Wynter is survived by his
daughter Grace Alexandra, his
mother Sylvia, and his brother
Stephen. Leon is preceded in
death by his sister Rochelle,
and his father Rupert. He
leaves behind his second wife
Yvonne, the mother of Grace,
and his first wife Karen, the
great love of his life. He
leaves several aunts, uncles, a
nephew, and several cousins
behind. He also leaves behind
an abundance of those who
knew him personally and
loved him, as well as those
who knew him professionally
and respected him. He has
created a legacy of friendship,
a body of work to be proud
of, and a lifetime of vivid
memories for those of us who
have been privileged to be his
friends.

CBC Chair Shares Insight

Continued from A1
House about the need for summer jobs for youth.
 
Q: In recent months, the Congressional Black
Caucus (CBC) has come out against President
Barack Obama’s position on several issues. Is this
an indication of a trend or a continuation of earlier
attempts to get this administration to include the
CBC at the table or in an advisory role?
Chairman Cleaver: We have come out in
opposition to several of the initiatives of President
Obama. We will never come out against President
Obama.
We believe that it is important for us to help
him build a successful administration by bumping
against him on policies that we think will in
the long run be detrimental to our constituency.
But, it is also important that we convey to Black
readers, especially, that the CBC has never gone
through a two-year period or a four-year period
with any administration ... where there were not
disagreements.
We think that we would do this administration a
great injustice if we failed to speak out on matters
that we strongly support or oppose. But there will be
no plans to out President Obama. We will not attack
him. And our plan, of course, is when we have a
disagreement, we hope to be able to discuss those
into this situation in an attempt to make sure that
individuals who were unemployed could receive
unemployment benefits. … We had difficulty trying
to justify doing something for two years for the
wealthiest people in the country, and then at the same
with him early on when issues surface, as opposed
time slapping people who are unemployed, through
to when they are reaching the floor, which is what
no fault of their own, with unemployment benefits
happened with the tax bill. I think we have expressed
for only a year.
that to the president. He is saying yes, we want to
And incidentally, these are not people who are
deal with those issues early on. There won’t be a lot
loafing, trying to live off the dole and that kind
of public acrimony oozing out from the CBC.
of thing. These are firefighters and teachers and
I think it is also important to say: it’s okay if
laborers; people who worked in factories that closed.
African Americans disagree with African Americans.
These are people who live next door. Think about the
If we do not disagree with each other, we don’t help
fact that tens of thousands of people have been laid
each other develop the strongest positions possible. It
off in state government all around the country. So we
is only when I meet with resistance that I am forced
are saying we are not as concerned about you folks
to further develop my policies and to have a much
as we are about 2 percent of the richest people in the
deeper root to why we’re doing it.
country?
That’s why we have a CBC as opposed to a
We didn’t have unanimity of vote; we had
congressional Black person. Because when we have
unanimity of thought that this is not the healthiest
the Caucus, we have 42 brains, and some very sharp
thing we could have done.
ones at that, to help give the person who’s
out front a solid foundation as he or she
deals with issues.
 
Q: You mentioned the tax cuts, and Choose
that the CBC had some differences
with the President on that. Could you
elaborate? The Quality of Mercy...
CC: The majority of us voted against
it. We didn’t vote against the President. for your personal OB/GYN
We understand that he was pushed

Vacancy Process
Continued from A1
groups.
Cole, who visibly hesitated
before voting for Welch
during the ninth district
vacancy filling, said, “We
relied on letters of support in
making our decision but the
process was imperfect and
awkward.”
Before the city leaders
could vote to adopt the
changes, Councilwoman
Mary Pat Clarke moved that
the council hold a public
hearing prior to the vote. “If
we are going to change the
rules, everyone should have a
chance to look at the rules. I
think we should at least offer
people a chance to testify,”
said Clarke, who did not vote
for Welch during the ninth
district’s vacancy. The rest
of the council agreed. City
officials said the hearing
will be scheduled in coming
weeks.
Community leader Marvin
“Doc” Cheatham, who
expressed concerns about the
city council vacancy filling
procedures during Welch’s
appointment, said he is
generally satisfied with the
proposal but has one concern.
“They should not have
the authorization to turn
down (the vacancy panel’s
nominee) and pick someone
else,” he said. “I’m pleased
as long as the language is
changed so that the council
cannot circumvent the panel’s
decision.”
The council’s newest attempting to revive a similar
member says the vacancy elections measure. But unlike
filling process should be even surrounding counties, the
more inclusive than proposed Baltimore City Council must
changes. “I hope we amend get approval from the state
the rules at the state level before administering special
involving special elections,” elections.
Welch said. This way, he Cole said the special
continued, all residents in elections option would
the vacated district can vote be beneficial, but is not a
for candidates using library guarantee. “The only thing
computers, or Facebook.” we can control is our vacancy
Councilman Bill Henry is selection process,” he said.
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A6 The Afro-American, February 5, 2011 - February 11, 2011

Community Calendar
Feb. 4
First Fridays
Reginald F. Lewis
Museum of Maryland African
American History & Culture,
830 E. Pratt St., Baltimore,
7:30-9:30 p.m. Musician
Mycah Chevalier shares her
music with Baltimore. $15-
$20. For more information:
443-263-1875 or visit
africanamericanculture.org.
attempts to produce the
world’s largest hair show
competition. $39-$46.
For more information and
tickets: 443-885-4440 or visit
murphyfineartscenter.org.
Lauryn Hill at Rams Head
Live
Rams Head Live, Power
Plant, 20 Market Place,
Baltimore. 9:30 p.m. Famed
singer Lauryn Hill performs
some of her greatest hits. $65.
For more information and
tickets: 410-244-1131 or visit
tickets.ramheadlive.com.
International Wine and
Food Fest
Ronald Reagan Building more information and tickets: 2 p.m. Martha Reeves
and International Trade 1-800-343-1174 or visit and the Vandellas and the
Center, 1300 Pennsylvania wineandfooddc.com. Charlie Thomas Drifters
Ave., N.W., 2 p.m. perform at the second annual
Participate in the largest Feb. 12 Valentines for Veterans
indoor wine event in the ‘Valentines for Vets’ Concert. Free. Call 410- 783-
Mid-Atlantic region. Over Concert 8000 for tickets. For more
200 international wineries Joseph Meyerhoff information: www.maryland.
participate along with food Symphony Hall, 1212 va.gov or 1-800-463-6295,
vendors. $85 and up. For Cathedral St., Baltimore, ext., 7101.

Feb. 5 Friday, February 4 is National Wear Red Day. Celebrate with us!
Hebrew Orphan Asylum
Past & Future NOW - SUNDAY, FEB. 6
The Wear Red Sale
Pratt Library, Edmonson
Avenue branch, 4330

WEAR RED
Edmonson Ave., Baltimore.
2-3 p.m. Baltimore Heritage
in partnership with the
National Trust for Historic
Preservation hosts a
discussion about Baltimore’s
Hebrew Orphan Asylum.

GET AN EXTRA
Eli Pousson leads the talk.
For more information:
prattlibrary.org.

2O OFF
Feb. 6
BMA African American

%
History Month
Baltimore Museum of *
Art, North Charles and 31st
streets, Baltimore, 1-5 p.m.
Musical performances and
storytelling at the Baltimore
Museum of Art’s Family
Day. Learn about famous
Black historymakers from
Maryland. Free. For more SELECT REGULAR, SALE & CLEARANCE PRICED PURCHASES STOREWIDE —
information: 443-573-1700 INCLUDING THE HOME STORE! OR, TAKE AN EXTRA 10% OFF* ALL SALE & CLEARANCE
or visit artbma.org. FINE & FASHION JEWELRY & WATCHES
Feb. 7
Intro to Jazz Singing
The Mansion at
Strathmore-Shapiro Music
Room, 10701 Rockville
Pike, N. Bethesda, Md.
7:30-9:30 p.m. Jazz singer Show your support & save!
and Howard University
professor Jessica Boykin- Wear red or purchase a Red Dress Pin
Settles leads a class that for $2 at any register and get the
introduces the elements and extra 20% or 10% savings*. Macy’s
rhythms of jazz singing, will donate all pin sales to the AHA’s
harmony and improvisation. Go Red For Women® movement.
Six Monday sessions take Visit macys.com/gored
place each week. $275. For for more information.
more information and to
register: 301-581-5100 or
visit Strathmore.org.

Feb. 9
Poetry with Tony Medina
Enoch Pratt Free Library,
Edmonson branch, 11 a.m.
Author Tony Medina offers
tips for aspiring poets and
discusses his picture-book
biography about reggae
star Bob Marley, I and
I Bob Marley. For more
information: prattlibrary.org.
Feb. 10
Motor Trend Auto Show
Even if you’re not
wearing red & don’t buy
a pin, you can use your
Macy’s Card & save!
Take an extra 15% off†
select sale & clearance
apparel for him, her and
kids & select home
items; or, extra 10% off†
all sale & clearance
watches, shoes, coats,
suits, dresses,
intimates; men’s
suit separates &
sportcoats.
†Exclusions apply; see below.

Baltimore Convention
Center, One W. Pratt St.,
Baltimore. Event runs
through Feb. 13. See
hundreds of the latest cars,
trucks, crossovers and more.
Attendees are welcome to
inspect engines, sit behind
the wheels and take test
drives with the Chevrolet
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N1010016A.indd 1 1/20/11 9:11:06 AM


Opinion
We’ve Waited For This Revolution For
Years. Other Despots Should Quail
My birth at the end of
July 1967 makes me a child
of the naksa, or setback, as
the Arab defeat during the
June 1967 war with Israel
is euphemistically known
in Arabic. My parents’
generation grew up high on
the Arab nationalism that
Egyptian president Gamal
Abdel Nasser brandished in
the 1950s. But we “Children
of the Naksa,” hemmed
in by humiliation, have
Mona Eltahawy spent so much of our lives
uncomfortably stepping into
pride’s large, empty shoes.
But here now finally are our children – Generation
Facebook – kicking aside the burden of history, determined to
show us just how easy it is to tell the dictator it’s time to go.
To understand the importance of what’s going in Egypt,
take the barricades of 1968 (for a good youthful zing), throw
them into a mixer with 1989 and blend to produce the potent
brew that the popular uprising in Egypt is preparing to offer the
entire region. It’s the most exciting time of my life.
How did they do it? Why now? What took so long?
These are the questions I face on news shows scrambling to
understand. I struggle with the magnitude of my feelings of
watching as my country revolts and I give into tears when
I hear my father’s Arabic-inflected accent in the English of
Egyptian men screaming at television cameras through tear gas:
“I’m doing this for my children. What life is this?”
And Arabs from the Mashreq to the Maghreb are watching,
egging on those protesters to topple Hosni Mubarak who
has ruled Egypt for 30 years, because they know if he goes,
all the other old men will follow, those who have smothered
their countries with one hand and robbed them blind with the
other. Mubarak is the Berlin Wall. “Down, down with Hosni
Mubarak,” resonates through the whole region.
In Yemen, tens and thousands have demanded the ousting of
Ali Abdullah Saleh who has ruled them for 33 years. Algeria,
Libya and Jordan have had their protests. “I’m in Damascus,
but my heart is in Cairo,” a Syrian dissident wrote to me.
My Twitter feed explodes with messages of support and
congratulations from Saudis, Palestinians, Moroccans and
Sudanese. The real Arab League; not those men who have ruled
and claimed to speak in our names and who now claim to feel
our pain but only because they know the rage that emerged in
Tunisia will soon be felt across the region.
Brave little Tunisia, resuscitator of the Arab imagination.
Tunisia, homeland of the father of Arab revolution: Mohammed
Bouazizi, a 26-year-old who set himself on fire to protest in
desperation at the unemployment and repression that covers
the region. He set on fire the Arab world’s body politic and
snapped us all to attention. His self-immolation set into motion
Tunisian protests that in just 29 days toppled Zine El Abidine
Ben Ali’s 23-year dictatorship. We watched, we said wow and
Making History
I began my personal
celebration of Black History
Month a week early this
year. Along with Gov.
Martin O’Malley and the
chief judges of Maryland’s
Appellate Courts, Robert
Bell and Peter Krauser, I was
honored to participate in the
elevation of Judge Shirley
Watts to Maryland’s Court of
Special Appeals.
Congressman
As I drove to Annapolis
for Judge Watts’ investiture, I
Elijah Cummings thought about all of the forces
that combine to define the
course of our lives.
Making my way though the obstacles left by our first major
storm of the season, I could not help but recall some critical
advice that I once received from Del. Lena K. Lee: “It is not
a question whether opportunities will present themselves in
your life, Elijah,” she observed to me back in 1982, “rather,
it is a question of whether you have prepared yourself to take
advantage of the opportunities that come along – and I believe
that you have . . . .”
It was less than one year after that memorable conversation
with Del. Lee that I first met the brilliant young lawyer
who, one day, would rise to become one of the first African-
American woman ever named to Maryland’s Appellate Courts.
As I interviewed Shirley Watts for her first legal job back
in 1983, I already could tell that she was preparing herself to
accomplish great things in her life.
She had earned her academic distinction at Howard
University and Rutgers University School of Law with a
Image Courtesy African American Civil
War Museum
African Descent soldiers stand
in formation at Hilton Head,
S.C., during the Civil War.
February 5, 2011 - February 11, 2011, The Afro-American
we thought: that’s it? Ben Ali ran
away that quickly? It’s that easy?
Ben Ali called his armed
forces for help 27 days into the
popular uprising. It took Mubarak
just four days into Egypt’s revolt
to call the army. He had unleashed
the brutality of his security forces
and their riot police, but they
couldn’t stem the determination
of the thousands who continued to
demand his ousting. He put Egypt
under information lock-down
by shutting down the Internet,
Burmese-junta style, but still they
came.
Ben Ali’s fall killed the fear
in Egypt. So imagine what
Mubarak’s fall could do to
liberate the region. Too many
have rushed in to explain the Arab
world to itself. “You like your
strongman leader,” we’re told. “You’re passive, and apathetic.”
“The Internet didn’t invent courage; activists in Egypt have
exposed Mubarak’s police state of torture and jailings for years.”
But a group of young online dissidents dissolved those
myths. For at least five years now, they’ve been nimbly moving
from the “real” to the “virtual” world where their blogs and
Facebook updates and notes and, more recently, tweets offered
a self-expression that may have at times been narcissistic but
for many Arab youths signaled the triumph of “I”. I count, they
said again and again.
Most of the people in the Arab world are aged 25 or are
younger. They have known no other leaders than those dictators
who grew older and richer as the young saw their opportunities
– political and economic – dwindle. The Internet didn’t invent
courage; activists in Egypt have exposed Mubarak’s police state
of torture and jailings for years. And we’ve seen that even when
the dictator shuts the Internet down protesters can still organize.
Along with making “I” count, social media allowed activists
to connect with ordinary people and form the kind of alliances
that we’re seeing on the streets of Egypt where protesters come
from every age and background. Youth kick-started the revolt,
but they’ve been joined by old and young.
Call me biased, but I know that each Arab watching the
Egyptian protesters take on Mubarak’s regime does so with the
hope that Egypt will mean something again. Thirty years of
Mubarak rule have shriveled the country that once led the Arab
world. But those youthful protesters, leapfrogging our dead-in-the-
water opposition figures to confront the dictator, are liberating all
Egyptians from the burden of history. Or reclaiming the good bits.
determination that had been formed by the influence of a strong
and loving West Baltimore family.
During her work with my law firm – and, later, as a widely
respected state prosecutor, federal public defender and trial
judge – Judge Watts would demonstrate the formidable work
ethic that is so crucial to success in any walk in life. Yet, these
positive character traits are not all that characterize Shirley
Watts – or any other wise leader.
In every important legal position that she has held, Judge
“Talented individuals can change our lives for the better through
dedication, insight and hard work – but they must also have the
opportunity to do so.”
Watts has brought to those challenges the empathy, compassion
and sense of duty that was first nurtured in her as a child at
St. Celia Catholic Church. She has witnessed the struggles
and failings of her community – and she has learned from the
determination and heroism of everyday people grappling with life.
In my view, this “empathy,” so much derided by cynics
during the ratification hearings for Supreme Court Justice Sonia
Sotomayor, is the fundamental difference between a wise judge
of human behavior and a calculating machine.
Ultimately, it is this capacity for insight and compassion
that is an essential ingredient of the rule of law in any self-
governing society.
Gov. O’Malley’s appointment of Shirley Watts to the work
of judging us all reflected this truth – but it also illustrated a
second, broader consideration about our history.
Talented individuals can change our lives for the better
through dedication, insight and hard work – but they must also
Read Hari Jones’
The Great Emancipators
Black History Month: African Americans and the Civil War
and other OpEds on Afro.com.
A7
Think back to Suez to appreciate the historic amnesia of
a regime that cares only for its
survival. In cracking down on
protesters, Mubarak immediately
inspired resistance reminiscent
of the Arab collective response
to the tripartite aggression of the
1956 Suez crisis. Suez, this time,
was resisting the aggression
of the dictator; not the former colonial powers but this time
Mubarak, the dictator, as occupier.
Meanwhile, the uprisings are curing the Arab world of an
opiate, the obsession with Israel. For years, successive Arab
dictators have tried to keep discontent at bay by distracting
people with the Israeli-Arab conflict. Israel’s bombardment
of Gaza in 2009 increased global sympathy for Palestinians.
Mubarak faced the issue of guarding the border of Gaza,
helping Israel enforce its siege, and continuing to use the
conflict as a distraction. Enough with dictators hijacking
sympathy for Palestinians and enough with putting our lives on
hold for that conflict.
Arabs are watching as tens of thousands of Egyptians turn
Tahrir Square into the symbol of their revolt. Every revolution
has its square and Tahrir (liberation in Arabic) is earning its
name. This is the square Egypt uses to remember the ending of
the monarchy in 1952, as well as of British occupation.
The group of young army officers who staged that coup
in 1952 claimed it as a revolution, heralding an era of rule by
military men who turned Egypt into a police state. Today, the
army is out in Tahrir Square again, this time facing down a
mass of youthful protesters determined to pull of Egypt’s first
real post-colonial revolution.
You can read more from Mona Eltahawy at www.
monaeltahawy.com.
have the opportunity to do so.
This is why we must never forget that elections matter. No
group in our society more fully understands this truth than
do African Americans. In our history, our opportunities for
leadership and service have expanded as a direct result of the
popular will.
“Give us the ballot,” Dr. King observed during his remarks
at the 1957 Prayer Pilgrimage for Freedom, “and we will place
judges on the benches of the south who will do justly and love
mercy.”
Because we worked hard and
organized, Barack Obama is now
the president of all Americans;
and Justices Sonia Sotomayor
and Elena Kagan are now
serving on the Supreme Court of
the United States.
Because we in Maryland
registered and went to the polls in large numbers, Martin
O’Malley is our governor; and Judges Sally Adkins, Mary Ellen
Barbera and Shirley Watts now are working for justice in our
highest appellate courts.
Once, nearly three decades ago, I briefly had the privilege
to serve as a role model for a brilliant young Black woman
embarking on her career in the law. Now, Judge Watts has
grown to become a role model for me and for our entire
community.
This is how our history has been made, each generation
building upon the last.
We still can believe that a more just future remains within
our grasp.
Congressman Elijah E. Cummings represents Maryland’s
Seventh Congressional District in the United States House of
Representatives.
A8 The Afro-American, February 5, 2011 - February 11, 2011
Business
In Q & A, Shirley J. Wilcher Says Affirmative
Action is Still Needed
By Kenneth J. Cooper
America’s Wire
Since 2005, Shirley J. Wilcher has
directed the American Association
for Affirmative Action, a professional
organization that is based in Washington,
D.C., and has 1,000 members. During
the Clinton administration, she ran the
Office of Federal Contract Compliance
Programs, a Labor Department
agency that enforces a legal mandate
that government contractors practice
affirmative action.
Her experience in civil rights law
extends back three decades to summer
internships at the NAACP Legal Defense
and Educational Fund when she was a
student at Harvard Law School.
In a recent interview with America’s
Wire, Wilcher asserted a continuing
need for affirmative action, criticized
ill-defined diversity programs at some
colleges and companies, urged federal
investigations of employers that have
stopped advertising jobs in minority-
oriented publications and rejected
proposals to limit affirmative action to
native-born African-Americans or low-
income members of minority groups.
She also said the George W. Bush
administration had prohibited civil rights
officials from using the term “affirmative
action.” Here is an edited transcript of
her remarks:
America’s Wire: Is affirmative
action still needed?
Shirley J. Wilcher: “All you have
to do was go to the EEOC [Equal
Employment Opportunity Commission]
website to look at the number of
[discrimination] charges that are being
filed. Ninety-something thousand last
year. Affirmative action’s purpose is
to prevent discrimination as well as to
remedy past discrimination, the theory
being that if a company is vigilant and
it looks at its employment practices,
including pay, that it will fix the problem
Our strength
supports
generations
Wachovia proudly celebrates Black history and the new milestones being
reached by African Americans every day. In the home, in the community,
and in the world, African Americans are taking the lead, achieving unity,
and reaching new heights. And from these heights, our children not only
have a clear view of today’s possibilities, but also tomorrow’s promise.
wachovia.com
Wachovia Bank and Wachovia Bank of Delaware are divisions of Wells Fargo Bank, N.A.
Member FDIC. © 2011 Wells Fargo Bank, N.A.
All rights reserved. ECG-432402
Courtesy Photo
Shirley J. Wilcher
and promote equal opportunity. We are
not talking about ‘preferences.’ We are
talking about opportunities. We still need
affirmative action.
Some [employers] now are assuming
that if you went to an Ivy League school
and you are African-American, you were
admitted through affirmative action and
you’re not as good. So you’re still a
victim if you graduated from Harvard or
Penn or Yale. Somehow they can’t quite
believe you’re good enough even though
nobody [else] takes your exams.
AW: So what is the state of affirmative
action today?
SJW: Clearly, there have been attacks
on affirmative action so much that people
are even afraid to even use the term
anymore. We’ve even had debates within
my group, the American Association for
Affirmative Action—should we change
the name? So far, the group view is we
will not change the name because it has
somehow fallen out of favor.
In private industry, they use the term
‘diversity’ now. [There are] a lot of
diversity programs. But if they don’t deal
with the issue of opportunity in hiring
and promotions, the representation of
women and minorities in the workplace,
you might as well call them “Kumbaya
programs,” as far as I’m concerned.
“Let’s celebrate Black History Month.”
Maybe they go out and give speeches
about the importance of diversity and the
bottom line. A lot of affirmative action/
diversity programs make you feel good.
Maybe they’re good for morale, but they
make no change, so therefore they make
no difference.
Some of our members who used
to report to the chancellor now report
to the head of [human resources]. It
creates conflicts of interest. You lack
the independence you had when you
could monitor every office. Our staffs
are being cut. Some of them now have
diversity jobs on top of what they did to
[prepare] affirmative action plans and
deal with equal opportunity complaints
or discrimination complaints.
AW: Some companies have stopped
advertising jobs in minority-owned
publications because, the employers say,
openings are posted on the employers’
websites. Is that adequate or effective
outreach to assemble a diverse pool of
candidates?
SJW: It’s not enough, because not
everyone is going to go to their website.
Unless you know about a job, why would
you go to some company’s website?
When I was hired by the National
Association of Independent Colleges
and Universities [in 1990], I learned
about that job from reading Black Issues
in Higher Education [now Diverse:
Issues in Higher Education, a biweekly
magazine].
If they’re federal contractors, they
really do need to cast that net widely
and advertise with the minority media.
I don’t think they’re really touching the
population they claim they want to reach.
Frankly, maybe the federal agencies need
to look into this.
AW: What do you think of President
Obama’s record on affirmative action?
Does his not talking much about it
impact what the private sector does or
doesn’t do?
SJW: I think we
understand why he doesn’t—
because of the flak he gets
when he addresses any issue
involving race. It’s as though
those who didn’t even vote
for him are fearful that he
will be the president for one
group instead of for everyone.
So it puts him in a box, and
that’s unfortunate.
D.C. Native Transforms
Racial Controversy into
Righteous Conglomerate
By Stephen D.
Riley
AFRO Staff Writer
Controversial
radio host Don
Imus infamously
outraged sections
of the Black
community, April
4, 2007, when
he shrewdly
called members
of the Rutgers
University
basketball team
“nappy-headed
hos” during a
live broadcast.
Coincidentally,
one of the
components that
Imus unknowingly
angered was the
executive director
Courtesy Photo
of the Hip Hop
Valeisha Butterfield transformed
Summit Action
a racial controversy into Women
Network, led
in Entertainment Empowerment
by rap mogul
Russell Simmons. Network (WEEN), an organization
that supports, promotes and
Emerging from
defends the positive portrayal
the fallout of
Imus’ remarks, of women in entertainment and
Valeisha society.
Butterfield, entertainment business that
the network’s executive will acclimate them to an
director at the time, then industry of which most are
hosted a meeting at her
begging to be a part.
house featuring some Butterfield’s vision
of the most powerful
has exploded before her
Black women working in very eyes into a growing
media to come up with a
movement. But it was a
counterpunch to Imus’ verbal vision that successfully
onslaught. That same year, grew despite a controversial
Women in Entertainment comment that helped unite
Empowerment Network
the African-American
(WEEN) was born. community. “From that
Butterfield, co-founder
meeting we decided that
of WEEN, has successfully
something had to be done
created a coalition that
and one day I decided to put
stretches to over 43,000
my foot down and make a
young women worldwide. stand,” Butterfield said. “As
WEEN hosts programs year a woman who worked in the
round designed to educate business, I felt like it was
women in the areas of my responsibility and my
health, financial literacy, obligation to do my part to
career development and create more balance in the
personal advancement. The way women, like me, are
company recently celebrated portrayed in the media.”
its three-year anniversary WEEN’s achievements
and will host its first WEEN haven’t totally caught the
Summer Academy where self-assured Butterfield
60 women will undergo a
by surprise but it is a feat
six-week crash course in the the soon-to-be 33-year-old
Washington, D.C. native is
most proud of. “It’s amazing
because not only has it been
successful but it’s gotten a
lot of exposure,” Butterfield
admits. “With exposure you
have to have substance and
it was important for me to
make sure we were backing
up all this access that we
had with real programs that
touched young women in a
real way.”
After working with
Simmons and now the
driving force behind WEEN,
Butterfield has also applied
her services to working with
President Barack Obama as
the deputy director of public
affairs for the International
Trade Administration in
the U.S. Department of
Commerce. She has also
served as the director of
diversity for the national
office of the Alzheimer’s
Association.
With a laundry list of
duties and accomplishments
firmly in her pocket,
Butterfield’s drive earned
her a spot in ESSENCE
magazine’s Top 40
executives under 40 for
2010. When asked about her
many accolades, Butterfield
alluded to her personal
secret: “Having no fear,” she
revealed. “As kids we have
no fear and as we become
adults we kind of, you know,
over think and over analyze
everything. I’ve always
jumped in feet first.”
To find out more
information on Valeisha
Butterfield and the WEEN
Summer Academy visit www.
weenonline.org
 February 5, 2011 - February 11, 2011, The Afro-American B1

Enoch Pratt Free

Library Board of Carla Hayden, chief
Directors Secretary executive officer,
Edward N. Kane Jr. Enoch Pratt Free Lee Mullane of the Annie E. Casey
Library, welcomes the Foundation introduces guest
audience to the 23rd speaker Victoria Rowell
Annual Booklovers’
Breakfast

Actress and author Victoria Rowell

reads a passage from passage from her
New York Times best seller The Women
Who Raised Me.
Photos by John Moore

The Enoch Pratt Free Library hosted its 23rd Annual Booklovers’ Breakfast
with best-selling author and actress Victoria Rowell on Jan. 29 at the Baltimore
Marriott Waterfront Hotel.
Rowell, an advocate, mother, actress and author of the New York Times
bestseller, The Women Who Raised Me, read passages from her work to the
audience.
Most recognized for her role as Drucilla Winters on “The
Young and the Restless,” Rowell has been nominated for Victoria Rowell
two Daytime Emmy awards and received signs copies of
12 NAACP Image awards. her two books
In past years, the Booklovers for a long line of
Breakfast welcomed award- guests
winning authors Terry McMillan,
Tavis Smiley, Nikki Giovanni
and Hill Harper.
Attendees give
Rowell a standing
ovation
AFRO public relations manager Diane
Hocker, Ernestine Jones Jolivet, Valerie
Fraling and Russell Jolivet

Photos by A. Lois De Laine

The 26th anniversary of the Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Scholarship
Breakfast was held to recognize distinguished alumni who have made
major contributions to Morgan State University, their community and to
award scholarships to students for their academic achievements.
The recognized honorees were William C. Fuller, Pythias A. & Virginia
Joe Ann Oatis, I. Jones African American Community Forum on Memory Loss, Howard J.
Humanitarian Gillis, Joe Ann Oatis, Maysa Leak and Ralph C. Cooke.
Award recipient Dr. David Wilson, Morgan’s new president, was the guest speaker,
centering his talk on the theme: “His Dream was the Start…Go Forth, Ralph C. Cooke,
Finish His Vision.” Distinguished Service
The packed fill room sang “We Shall Overcome” along with the Morgan Award recipient
Singers, directed by Dr. Eric Conway. Charles Robinson III was the master of
ceremonies; Anthony and Diane McPhail were the co-chairpersons.
Delores C. Cooke,
president, Howard L.
Cornish Chapter Julie Davidson-
Randall, past
president, Howard
Cornish Chapter

Maysa Leak,
international
jazz vocalist,
recipient of Sen. Verna Jones-
the Drum Rodwell
Major Award Howard J. Gillis
received the
Howard L. Cornish
Community
Service Award

Sen. Nathaniel William Chancer

McFadden, Hall Gloria E. Wayman, Fuller, recipient of the
of Fame Morgan president, MSU Appreciation Award
alumnus National Alumni
Anthony C. and Association
Diane McPhail,
co-chairs of the
Scholarship
Breakfast

Dr. David Wilson,

Russell Jolivet, Ernestine Jolivet and Alvin Jones president, Morgan
Verizon scholarship recipients received the Howard L. Cornish Community Service State University
Damilola Akinyele, Chelsie Brantley, Award for the Pythias & Virginia Jones African was the keynote
Christen Brown American Community Forum on Memory Loss speaker
B2 The Afro-American, February 5, 2011 - February 11, 2011

Community Report: Flu on the Rise Across Maryland

By AFRO Staff

Friendship Academy of Science and

According to the Maryland Department of Health and Mental Hygiene’s (DHMH) flu
monitoring and surveillance systems report, the state has seen a dramatic rise in the flu virus
since the last week of December 2010. The DHMH Maryland Flu Tracking System found that

Technology Student Wins First cases of influenza grew from “local” to “widespread” over the past few weeks and the number
of flu-related emergency room visits and hospitalizations spiked.
“The flu is here as expected but the good news is, it’s not too late to get vaccinated,”

Annual MERIT Scholarship said Frances Phillips, deputy secretary for Public Health Services, in a prepared statement.
“For those who get sick, there is nothing pleasant about the flu. With illness occurring in
communities throughout Maryland, now is the time for anyone not yet vaccinated to do so. We
will protect ourselves as well as others who may be at risk for more serious flu symptoms.”
Friendship Public Charter School is proud to announce DHMH officials believe the number of people who die, get sick or require hospitalization
Pereviva Besong, a junior at the Friendship Academy of because of influenza will peak at the end of February this year. Phillips encourages area
Science and Technology, will be part of the first class of residents to implement simple, at-home strategies for flu prevention.
MERIT Scholars.  “Check with your health care provider, pharmacy or local health department and get
MERIT is the Medical Education Resources Initiative vaccinated as soon as possible, added Phillips. “Remember, the vaccine is the best form of
for Teens and is designed to help students from low-income protection but it takes some time to provide immunity. In general, we can protect ourselves by
neighborhoods pursue a career in medicine by preparing them frequent hand-washing, covering coughs and sneezes, and staying home from work or school
when sick.”
for the academic and financial challenges that lie ahead.
The current seasonal flu vaccine protect against the H1N1 influenza strain and two other
“On behalf of the Board of Trustees and our teachers we common types of the virus.
are very proud of Pereviva for working so hard to earn this
scholarship,” said Donald Hense, chairman of Friendship To find out more about seasonal flu visit dhmh.maryland.gov/swineflu/.
Public Charter Schools, in a prepared statement. “We
Courtesy Photo look forward to working with MERIT to help Perevia and
Pereviva Besong hopefully other Friendship students not only make it to
college but graduate and pursue a career in medicine.”
Baltimore Youth ‘Show Off’ Fashion,
In her time as a MERIT Scholar, Pereviva will work with undergraduate and medical school
mentors, participate in paid summer internships at Johns Hopkins Bayview Medical Center
Etiquette Skills at Felder House
and the National Institute of Drug Abuse, and attend Saturday sessions aimed at increasing Kids as young as age
college readiness.  4 showed off design and
 Friendship’s mission is to provide a world-class education that motivates students to sewing skills during a Felder
achieve high academic standards, enjoy learning and develop as ethical, literate, well-rounded House open house on Jan. 23.
and self-sufficient citizens who contribute actively to their communities. Participants wore fashions
 Friendship Public Charter School was founded in 1997; they have six charter campuses and clothes they created
and run one traditional public school in Washington, D.C. and run three Baltimore public from the instruction of an
schools in partnership with Baltimore City Public Schools. Seventy-four percent of students experienced designer and
are from families living on low incomes, 96 percent of Friendship’s flagship charter high sewing expert. The Felder
school graduate and 100 percent of its graduates are accepted to college. House is one of the first
design and etiquette schools
in the city offering young
children an opportunity to

Courtesy Photo
Baltimore girls participate in an open house sponsored
by fashion and etiquette training facility Felder House.

learn fashion designing, sewing and etiquette skills.

“This school’s mission is to inspire creativity, poise and
mannerism as they embark on a journey that will one day
open doors for them to become prominent and influential,
designers and/or leaders,” says Linda Felder, CEO and
president, in a a prepared statement. “This day will be the
day that the public witness the extraordinary outcomes that
children as young as 4 years of age, have the ability to do with
a little encouragement, inspiration and education.”
For the past five years, Felder has dedicated her time
and professional knowledge to the Felder House. During
her role as instructor and president, Felder has served
on various committees and is currently a member of the
board of directors. She saw a need to provide children of
all backgrounds the opportunity to learn etiquette skills
and talents that will enable them to grow into nurtured and
professional young adults. 
For more information or to schedule a tour of the facility,
please visit http://www.felderhouseinc.org.

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ret006014 TFC_AA_7.28x12_M.indd 1 1/7/11 10:55:18 AM

 February 5, 2011 - February 11, 2011, The Afro-American B3
www.afro.com

‘Please Mr. Postman’ Singer Gladys Horton Dies on Afro.com

Undisputed Queen of Comedy Serves Up ‘Sommore’ Laughs

By Gregory Dale
AFRO Staff Writer
In the world of comedy,
there’s only room for
one queen, and comedian
Sommore has undoubtedly
claimed the throne. After
busting onto the scene in
1995 as the first female host
of BET’s “Comic View,” the
Trenton, N.J. native’s career
quickly ascended as she
became one of the premier
faces of Black female
comedy.
Following her role
alongside Ice Cube in the
slapstick urban comedy,
Friday After Next, she went
on to appear in a string of
other films including Soul
Plane, Something New and
Family Reunion. She’s also
appeared in many television
shows such as “The Parkers,”
“Wild N’ Out” and “Celebrity
Fit Club.”
Now, the hilarious “tell
it like it is” queen is gearing
up for her headlined “Royal
Comedy Tour,” which
also stars comedians D.L.
Hughley, Bruce Bruce,
Don “D.C.” Curry, Damon
Williams and TuRae. The
AFRO recently spoke to
Sommore about her career
and what fans can expect at
this royal tour of laughs.
AFRO: You’ve been in
this business for over 15
years. How does it feel to
have had such a lengthy
career in comedy?
Sommore: It’s actually
closer to 20 years, but yes it
feels great. In the business
world, when you’re doing
something that makes you
money for five years, it’s
considered a success. So,
to be making a living off of
comedy for 20 years--I’m
just grateful. I attribute it
mostly to my fans because
they respect my work. They
appreciate it and support it.
AFRO: What are some
challenges that you’ve faced
in the past while in this
business?
Sommore: It’s just of the “Kings dead fish are just rolling
like any other career; and Queens of up everywhere, why these
you have your ups and Comedy.” That’s birds are falling out the sky
your downs. I wouldn’t why we’re calling and why everybody is just
say there are a whole it the “Royal walking around like they
lot of challenges, but Comedy Tour.” don’t see it. [Laughs].
it’s a male-dominated We’ve been
business. I’ve faced selling out all over AFRO: Do you have
sexism and racism at the country. We anything else in the works
different points, but did 30 cities last that fans can look out for?
[overall] I think I’m year and we’re Sommore: Right now,
judged differently than doing 30 cities I’m getting ready to shoot my
a lot of other guys. I this year. I’m just second one-woman special.
think if I said a joke excited. The last one, “The Queen
and I know it’s funny Stands Alone,” did very well.
and a guy said the same AFRO: What It aired on Comedy Central
thing, people would new surprises can and we’re selling the DVDs
[laugh at the guy], but attendees expect right now. I’m about to shoot
coming from a girl, at this year’s [the new] special this May
people would be like, show? and we’re taping it in Miami.
‘Oh, that’s dirty.’ People Sommore: It’s going to be titled, “All
just judge women The bottom line Dressed Up and No Place to
differently, but I’m used is the world is Go.” I’m really excited about
to that now. ever-changing. it.
So, of course the
AFRO: You have material is going Sommore’s ‘Royal Comedy
quite a line up for the to be different Tour’ will stop in Baltimore
‘Royal Comedy Tour.’ from last year. at the 1st Mariner Arena on
Why did you decide We have so Feb. 5. Tickets are on sale
Sommore Courtesy Photo
to bring these specific much more to now. For more information,
comedians on board? a tour that had all headliners. talk about. We log onto royalcomedytour.
Sommore: I wanted to do It’s a show with a magnitude got to talk about why these com.

Young Muslim Searches for Identity in Coming-of-Age Flick

By Kam Williams
Special to the AFRO
Since Sept. 11, 2001, Muslims have basically become
the N-words of the new millennium, being indiscriminately
demonized in much the same way young African Americans
were universally vilified by the FBI during the rise of the Black
Power Movement. In the wake of the civil unrest triggered by
the assassination of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr., simply walking
the streets with an afro was all the probable cause a cop needed
to stop and frisk anyone who resembled a radical figure like
Huey Newton, Stokely Carmichael or H. Rap Brown.
Such state-sanctioned mistreatment inflicted harm unlikely
ever to be undone on impressionable young minds trying
to figure out their place in the world, since it made the U.S.
suddenly feel more like an oppressive police state than the
proverbial land of the free and home of the brave. And it is a
similar sort of predicament which is sensitively explored in
Mooz-Lum, a coming-of-age flick by Qasim “Q” Basir.
Mr. Basir makes a memorable writing and directorial
debut with this semi-autobiographical character-driven drama
chronicling an emotionally-conflicted young Muslim’s struggle
for identity. And Q assembled an impressive cast to execute
his script, including Evan Ross, Danny Glover, Nia Long and
Roger Guenveur Smith, to name a few.
At the point of departure, we are introduced to Hassan
Mahdi (Smith), an overbearing patriarch who forces his family
to follow an orthodox, Islamic regimen. Wife Safiyah (Long)
is unhappily married because her husband’s too strict on the
kids. Still, she won’t divorce him because she feels they need a
father figure in their lives.
Consequently, their miserable son, Tariq (Ross), aka T,
routinely removes the kufi he’s supposed to wear, as soon as
his dad drops him off at school. And he also has to hide the
fact that he has an innocent crush on a Catholic girl (Molly
Paddock) he met in the woods. Meanwhile, his sister, Taqua
(Kimberley Drummond), has her own issues, having to keep
her head and body covered in modest Muslim garb that makes
her stand out like a sore thumb.
The plot thickens when T’s faith is tested his freshman year
of college, between being teased by a trash-talking classmate
(Vladimi Versaillies) who lives across the hall and being
attracted to a cute coed (Maryam Basir) who turns his head.
On the one hand, he does his best to distance himself from his
devout roommate, Hamza (Kunal Sharma), yet he’s not really
ready to behave like a party animal either.
Elsewhere at the university, a Muslim professor (Dorian
Missick) is having his tenure subtly threatened by a dean
(Glover) who doesn’t appreciate his proselytizing. But then, all
of the above is overshadowed by the events of Sept. 11, 2001,
when an ugly mob starts roaming the campus in search of easy
targets to take out their frustrations on.
A poignant, cinematic memoir of growing up Muslim in
America from the perspective of an anguished soul who just
wanted to enjoy a normal childhood.
Excellent (3.5 stars)
Rated PG-13 for violence and mature themes.
Running time: 99 Minutes
Distributor: Peace Film

Hello my dear friends. Blind Boys, Gospel Imperials,

There is so much going on this
week and next week, because
this is our Valentine’s Day
month and our Black History
Month. My goodness! What’s
a girl to do?
What I decided to do this
week is give you a calendar of
events so you can see what’s going on, choose where you want
to go to support as many of our local events you can.
CALENDAR OF EVENTS
Friday and Saturday, February 4 and 5
“Gospel SuperFest” live in Baltimore at the Murphy Fine
Arts Center, Morgan State University, 2201 Argonne Drive,
Friday 7 p.m. and Saturday, 6 p.m. February 4 and 5; featuring
over 30 gospel artists such as The Williams Brothers, Nevell
Sisters, Wes Morgan, The Soul Messengers, Hezekiah Walker,
Keith Wonderboy, Shirley Murdock, Richard Smallwood and
Tye Tribbett, just to name a few. For ticket information, call
443-885-4440.
Sunday, February 6
ChristianHangSuite.com presents “First Sundays” at the
Half Note Lounge 4881 Glenn Dale Road in Bowie, Md.,
featuring live gospel and soul food buffet on Sunday, February
6, 4-7 p.m. Performing live is the “First Sundays” House Band,
Oasis Praise Ministry, The Morrow Family, Chris Holmes,
CANDT Connection, Mike McCoy & Voices United.
Tuesday, February 8
The Baltimore Blues Society presents Eric Lindell on
Tuesday, February 8 at the Rosedale American Legion Hall,
1311 Seling Ave. in Rosedale, Md. For more information, call
410-744-2291.
Friday, February 11
New Life Fellowship Worship Center to hold Valentine’s
Gala on February 11, 8 p.m. until midnight. The event will
feature buffet menu prepared by Chef Benjamin Gordon. This
gospel stage play is by Ursula V. Battle and the Waxter Center
High Steppers. For more information, call Ursula Battle at 443-
531-4787.
Lil David & Bells of Joy;
Michael Boykin & the Mighty
By Rosa Voices, Lamanuel Boykin &
Pryor Company, Apostle Nobert
Simmons & Gospelaires
Calvin Suggs and the Carolina
Spirituals, Joy Sisters,
Bishop Hubert Williams &
Friday and Saturday, February 11 and 12 Uplifters and about six other groups. For more
The Baltimore Blues Society presents Johnny information and tickets, call 1-920-990-4239.
Winter on February 11 and 12 at the Rosedale
American Legion Hall, 1311 Seling Ave. in Sunday, February 13
Rosedale, Md. For more information, call 410- Carlos CH Hutchins Productions presents
744-2291. a “Valentine’s Day Celebration” on Sunday,
February 13 at Pikeville Community Hall, 40
Saturday, February 12 Subbrook Lane in Pikesville, Md. 4-9 p.m.
A Pre-Valentine’s Show & Dance featuring Performing will be the Rollex Band featuring
Fabulous Friends, BADD, Style and DJ Mel. Baretta Mercer, also special guest for the ladies
Hosted by “Mr. G” on Saturday, February “Heavenly Bless.” For more information, call
12, 8 p.m. at the New Five Mile House, 5302 410-340-2002 or 443-801-1100.
Reisterstown Road in Baltimore. For more
information and tickets, call 410-905-0169.
Clarence “Tiger” Davis, Tuesday, February 15
as event chairman, will The Baltimore Blues Society presents
Saturday, February 12 James Hunter on Tuesday, February 15 at the
have his 11th Annual
Caton Castle Night Club Lounge on Rosedale American Legion Hall, 1311 Seling
Buffalo Soldiers Memorial
Caton Ave. and Hilton Street will feature live Ave. in Rosedale, Md. For more information,
Banquet sponsored by
entertainment on Saturday, February 12 on call 410-744-2291.
the National Association
Valentine’s Day, 6-10 p.m. will feature the
for Black Veterans and the
Sharon Clark Quintet featuring Sharon on
African American Patriots Thursday, February 17
vocals, Lyle Link on sax, Chris Grasso on The Baltimore Blues Society presents Tom
Consortium on Feb. 19,
piano, Lenny Robinson on drums and Tommy Principato on Thursday, February 17 at the
Cecil on bass. 4-7:30 p.m. at the Forum
Caterers, 4210 Primrose Ave. Rosedale American Legion Hall, 1311 Seling
For ticket information, call Ave. in Rosedale, Md. For more information,
Sunday, February 13 call 410-744-2291.
Jim Gillis at 443-257-3348.
The Panama Band Valentine’s Day Concert
is on Sunday, February 13, at the Arch Social
Saturday, February 19
Club, 2426 Pennsylvania Ave. Also featuring The Baltimore Blues Society presents
will be R&B singing vocalist called J. Rell, comedian, Russell the Nighthawks on Saturday, February 19 at the Rosedale
Parham and special guests, comedian, Ms. Maybelle. Show American Legion Hall, 1311 Seling Ave. in Rosedale, Md. For
time is 5 p.m. For ticket information, call 410-215-8893. more information, call 410-744-2291.
Sunday, February 13 Well, my friends, I did the best I could. But it is about that time.
Annual Sweet Heart Gospel Fest on Sunday, February 13 at I am out of space. If you need me, call me at 410-833-9474 or e-mail
the Clinton Civic Center, 414 Warsaw Road in Clinton, N.C. me at rosapryor@aol.com. UNTIL THE NEXT, I’M MUSICALLY
Doors opens at 2 p.m. The performers will include: the Five YOURS.
B4 The Afro-American, February 5, 2011 - February 11, 2011

www.afro.com

Morgan State Women’s Basketball and HBCU Basketball Power Rankings on Afro.com

Faceoff: Who Will Win Super Bowl XLV: Pittsburgh or Green Bay?
By Stephen D. Riley and
Perry Green
AFRO Sports Writers
Placing any friendly (or
perhaps just financially-
friendly) bets on Super Bowl
XLV? What about the office
pool? If so, you may be
pulling your hair out trying
to figure out which team
will win. Will the Pittsburgh
Steelers or Green Bay Packers
reign victorious? Fortunately,
you don’t have to decide the
winner alone. Let the AFRO
Sports Desk’s Perry Green
(PG) and Stephen D. Riley
(SDR) do the hard work for
you.
SDR: The Steelers will
arrive at Super Bowl XLV
as the more experienced
championship team. But
that might not matter against
a hot Green Bay Packers
squad. The Packers trump
the Steelers in several areas,
most notably at the offensive
line, wide receiver, secondary
and special teams positions.
Pittsburgh might have the
edge at quarterback with Ben
Roethlisberger, but Green
Bay’s Aaron Rodgers has
emerged as one of the best
signal-callers in the league.
Simply put, the Packers hold
the edge over the Steelers in
talent, and for one game,
I’ll go with the team
who packs the most
punch.
PG: I cannot
deny the superior
talent of the
Green Bay
Packers, perhaps
the most all-around
explosive team in the NFL.
But as far as packing a greater
punch than the Pittsburgh
Steelers—no way. In fact, it’s
not even close. The Steelers
are by far the toughest team in
the league on both sides of the
ball. Pittsburgh’s legendary
defensive coordinator Dick
LeBeau will send line-stuffers
like Casey Hampton and
Ziggy Hood to beat down the
Packers’ running game, while
Troy Polamalu and James
Harrison take turns sacking
the quarterback. And when the
Packers try to return the favor
against their offense, they’ll
realize 250-pound quarterback
Ben Roethlisberger is about
as easy to sack as a female
Grizzly bear in heat.
You punch the Steelers
in the mouth and they laugh
while licking the blood off
their lip. They punch you in
the mouth and you fall down:
Game over! And that’s why
they’ll beat Green Bay in
Super Bowl XLV.
SDR: The best way to beat
brawn is with brain. If you
look at three of the Steelers’
four losses this season—not
counting their early season
loss to the Baltimore Ravens
without Roethlisberger—each
team that beat them was
extremely well coached. New
England, New Orleans and
the New York Jets all shared
something in common besides
the “New” in their name:
They all had dynamic coaches
who warned their teams about
the Steelers’ toughness and
countered it with genius game
plans. The Packers’ two main
coaches, head coach/offensive
coordinator Mike McCarthy
and defensive coordinator Dom
Capers, are two of the best
in the NFL at what they do.
Capers installed the Steelers’
3-4 defensive system as the
coordinator in the early ‘90s,
so he knows the defense inside
and out. McCarthy is one of
the brightest offensive minds
in the league and has guided
a laundry list of quarterbacks
to their finest seasons. Both
men have the smarts and talent
at the helm to outsmart the
Steelers’ “toughness.” have faced an opponent like up Steelers’ secondary and
this in their modern Super allow their defense to run
PG: No doubt, Green Bay Bowl era. Green Bay has the through a patchwork Steelers’
is a very well coached unit— two things that historically offensive line.
but so are the Steelers. You give Pittsburgh problems:
don’t reach the championship a confusing defense and an PG: Dinged up or not,
stage without great coaching. attacking quarterback. Keep there is a reason Pittsburgh
Both coaching staffs will use in mind that the Steelers is making their
this week to come up with will likely be without third trip to
the most effective game plans center Maurkice the Super
imaginable, but at kickoff it’s Pouncey, which Bowl
up to the players to execute could pose in six
under pressure. And while a world of years.
most of the Steelers’ roster problems with They
has experienced this type of Packers nose
pressure before, only one tackle B.J. Raji
player for the Packers, all-pro emerging as a
cornerback Charles Woodson, top talent. The
can say the same. Woodson Steelers have
was featured in Super Bowl gotten by with
XXXVI for the Oakland a makeshift offensive line simply find ways to win big
Raiders, but they were blasted for most of the season, but games, and it never seems
by a strong, defensive-minded Pouncey was always there to matter how good their
Tampa Bay Buccaneers. to even things out. This will opponents are. In 2005, the
The Steelers’ top-ranked most likely be their first full Steelers overcame the Seattle
defense should have similar game without him and a Seahawks’ top-ranked offense
success against the Packers, team can only go so far with with their less-talented roster
who showed weaknesses a bunch of castoffs blocking to win Super Bowl XL. They
offensively against the up front. Pittsburgh held on won Super Bowl XLII the
Chicago Bears’ defense in to stop the Jets two weeks same way, by outperforming
the NFC Championship. ago, but their offense was the Arizona Cardinals’ star-
Pittsburgh doesn’t allow many shut out in the second half studded offense. It may not
points. They’ll keep the score once New York adjusted be pretty, or perfect, but
tight and wait for the fourth defensively. Sure, Green Bay Pittsburgh finds a way to
quarter, and no one is better struggled offensively against beat you. They found a way
than Roethlisberger in the Chicago, but most offenses against the more talented
final moments of a game. He will struggle when operating Baltimore Ravens and New
has two Super Bowl rings to in freezing temperatures with York Jets earlier in January.
prove it. blasting winds. With Dallas’ I’m willing to bet the house
warmth and a fast-track turf they’ll find a way to their
SDR: Roethlisberger now to Rodgers’ and the seventh Super Bowl title,
may have two title rings but Packers’ advantage, they will the most by any franchise in
neither he nor the Steelers have an edge over a dinged- league history.

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BGE_2011WinterStorm_Afro_Layout 1 2/2/11 12:31 PM Page 1

February 5, 2011 - February 5, 2011, The Afro-American B5

A WORD OF THANKS FROM BGE

Together, we weathered it.

BGE Winter
Storm Tips

Assemble a storm supply kit

While the recent snowstorm may have measured far fewer inches than the ■
including:
blizzards of 2010, the impact on our customers was much greater. Corded telephone
Fully-charged cell phone
Flashlights
Last week’s winter storm resulted in outages for more than 236,000 Extra batteries
customers—about 65 percent more than during last year’s back-to-back Bottled water
Canned food
blizzards combined—due to a heavy, wet snow that brought down trees and Manual can opener
large limbs onto power lines and other electric delivery e quipment. Blankets
Battery operated radio and clock
First-aid kit
Our sincere thanks to all of our customers who reported outages rapidly and Medications for family members
Fire extinguisher
persevered with patience and understanding while service was being restored.
■ Tune into local radio stations for
safety and status reports and call
We also thank the more than 2,300 dedicated BGE and contract employees Weatherline at 410.662.9225 for
up-to-the minute weather information.
who worked tirelessly in the field, storm center, call center and other locations
■ If you lose power, call BGE
across Central Maryland to restore service to our customers safely and as immediately at 1.877.778.2222.
quickly as possible. ■ Be sure your carbon monoxide
and smoke detectors have battery
backups and are operating properly.
In addition, we send our appreciation to the utility and contract crews from
■ Plan where to go if you should need
Connecticut, Indiana, Kentucky, New Jersey, New York, North Carolina, Ohio, to leave your home.
Pennsylvania, Tennessee and Virginia, who assisted in this effort. ■ Don’t use candles for lighting—
they can create a fire hazard.

Every storm has its own unique challenges, and no one knows what the winter ■ Never use a gas cooking range for
heating—this can create deadly
still has in store for us. BGE will continue to monitor current and approaching carbon monoxide fumes.
weather conditions, and ensure that our storm response procedures are ■ Make alternative arrangements
continually up-to-date. We also encourage our customers to visit bge.com for individuals with special needs,
including those who are elderly,
for storm preparedness tips and information to keep them safe and at-the-ready handicapped or dependent on
for whatever may come. electricity for medical equipment,
in case of an extended power outage.

As the recent storm proved, together we can weather it. Get more winter storm
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 February 5, 2011 - February 11, 2011, The Afro-American B7
LEGAL NOTICES

CERTIFICATION OF PUBLICATION
CITY OF BALTIMORE
TYPESET: Wed Feb 02 11:40:48
LEGALEST 2011
NOTICES

CITY OF BALTIMORE
CAREER
CORNER
OFFICE OF BOARDS AND COMMISSIONS DEPARTMENT OF PUBLIC WORKS
PUBLIC NOTICE DEPARTMENT OF RECREATION AND PARKS

PROJECT NO. 1159 NOTICE OF LETTING

WASTEWATER ENGINEERING SERVICES FOR THE
IMPROVEMENTS TO THE HEADWORKS AND WET WEATHER FLOW Sealed Bids or Proposals, in duplicate addressed to the Board of Estimates
EQUALIZATION AT BACK RIVER of the Mayor and City Council of Baltimore and marked for RP10853-Jack
WASTEWATER TREATMENT PLANT Paulsen Memorial Field will be received at the Office of the Comptroller, Long Term Care Policy Specialist. This position will
Room 204, City Hall, Baltimore, Maryland until 11:00 A.M. on March 16, provide leadership and coordination for the statewide
The City of Baltimore Office of Boards and Commissions has been 2011. Positively no bids will be received after 11:00 A.M. Bids will be publicly expansion of the Maryland Access Point (MAP) program,
requested by the Department of Public Works, Bureau of Water and opened by the Board of Estimates in Room 215, City Hall at Noon. and the development of an infrastructure for administering
Wastewater, to certify the qualifications of consulting firms to provide The Contract Documents may be examined, without charge, at the Depart- and monitoring the MAP program, including the completion
professional engineering services for a study and evaluation of rec- ment of Public Works Service Center located on the first floor of the Abel
ommendations by the Outfall Sewershed Study and improvements, and Wolman Municipal Building, 200 N. Holliday Street, Baltimore, Maryland of a strategic plan. This position will work closely with staff
their effect on the plant operation. If applicable, the selected Consultant 21202 as of February 4, 2011 and copies may be purchased for a non- and contractors maintaining a statewide web-based
will prepare concepts of improvements at the Back Rriver Wastewater refundable cost of $50.00. searchable data base of resources, information and con-
Treatment plant headworks, including life-cycle cost comparisons. Conditions and requirements of the Bid are found in the bid package. tacts for long term supports and services. Other respon-
All contractors bidding on this Contract must first be prequalified by the City
sibilities include assisting in drafting and submitting new
The investigation will include assessment of the Plant’s Plant¬s hydraulic and of Baltimore Contractors Qualification Committee. Interested parties grant applications relevant to the MAP program and work-
treatment capabilities to meet NPDES permit criteria, relative to the high should call 410-396-6883 or contact the Committee at 751 Eastern Avenue,
wet weather flow events. Upon selection of the recommended im- Baltimore, Maryland 21202. If a bid is submitted by a joint venture ing with state and local partners from the Departments of
provements, a preliminary design shall be developed along with es- (”JV”), then in that event, the document that established the JV shall Health and Mental Hygiene, Disabilities, Human Resources
timated construction costs. be submitted with the bid for verification purposes. The and Veterans Affairs, as well as Area Agencies on Aging,
Prequalification Category required for bidding on this project is F02200 Centers for Independent Living and other non-profit aging
The firms interested in providing these services must demonstrate and Earthwork and Site Preparation and disabilities organizations. The position reports to the
document: Cost Qualification Range for this work shall be $500,000.01 to
$1,000,000.00 Chief of Long Term Supports and Services and is funded
1. Experience in hydraulic analysis and hydraulic modeling utilizing A ”Pre-Bidding Information” session will be conducted at 2600 Madison through federal grants at least through 2012. The position
InfoWorksTM CS modeling software for large sewer systems consisting Avenue, Baltimore, Maryland 21217 on Tuesday, February 15, 2011 at requires an understanding of long term care reform issues
of over 1,000 miles of pipes and flows exceeding 50 MGD. 10:00 A.M. and current developments nationally and in Maryland,
2. Experience in the design of wastewater treatment plant facilities Principal Items of work for this project are: leadership skills, the ability to work with multiple
exceeding 50 MGD. Earthwork and Site Preparation
stakeholders to create new programs, writing skills and the
3. Experience in design of collection systems including large wastewater The MBE goal is 20%
pumping facilities. The WBE goal is 5% capacity to visualize new programs and achieve their
4. Experience in the preparation of design reports and preliminary CONTRACT NO. RP10853 implementation. Travel is required. For the official job
designs. announcement and MS-100 application form, visit www.
5. Experience in construction cost estimating and life cycle cost APPROVED: mdoa.state.md.us/employment.html. Send MS-100 and
evaluations of alternate design concepts. Bernice H. Taylor
Clerk, Board of Estimates salary requirements by February 22, 2011 to: MDoA, HR,
6. Experience in Geotechnical Engineering and Foundation Design. 301 West Preston St., Suite 1007, Baltimore, MD 21201.
7. Experience in the design of odor control facilities. APPROVED:
8. Project approach to resolve the hydraulic constraint. Alfred H. Foxx EOE
TYPESET: Wed Feb 02 11:40:29 EST 2011
9. Manpower availability and ability to complete the project on time and Director of Public Works
within budget.
10. Experience in developing and managing an overall team with CITY OF BALTIMORE Motor Vehicle
Minority/Women Business Enterprises. DEPARTMENT OF PUBLIC WORKS Administration
At the option of the City, the consultant may subsequently be considered
DEPARTMENT OF RECREATION AND PARKS Senior Project Manager SUPPORT OUR
for final design, and Post Award engineering services, at the conclusion Location:
of the study and preliminary design.
NOTICE OF LETTING Glen Burnie, MD ADVERTISERS
Sealed Bids or Proposals, in duplicate addressed to the Board of Estimates www.marylandmva.com
The duration of this study will be one year and the estimated fee is of the Mayor and City Council of Baltimore and marked for RP09833-Druid
$750,000. Hill Park Bowl Improvements will be received at the Office of the
Comptroller, Room 204, City Hall, Baltimore, Maryland until 11:00 A.M. on

Strictly Personal
Should you have any questions regarding the scope of the Project, March 9, 2011. Positively no bids will be received after 11:00 A.M. Bids will
please contact Mr. Gurminder Singh at (410) 396-5385 or by e-mail at be publicly opened by the Board of Estimates in Room 215, City Hall at
gurminder.singh@baltimorecity.gov. Noon.
Projects must comply with the 2006 edition of “The ∫The Specifications
The Contract Documents may be examined, without charge, at the Depart-
Specificationsforfor ment of Public Works Service Center located on the first floor of the Abel Pen Pals
Materials, Highways, Bridges, Utilities and Incidental Structures”.
Structures∫. City
City Wolman Municipal Building, 200 N. Holliday Street, Baltimore, Maryland
personnel will utilize the City of Baltimore Guidelines for the Performance 21202 as of February 4, 2011 and copies may be purchased for a non-
Evaluation of Design Consultants and Construction Contractors for this refundable cost of $100.00.
contract/project. Conditions and requirements of the Bid are found in the bid package. Senior white male searching for a lady to be able to help ar-
All contractors bidding on this Contract must first be prequalified by the City
Firms intending to submit a proposal as a prime consultant for this project of Baltimore Contractors Qualification Committee. Interested parties range furniture. Please call William 410-458-2480.
should submit a “Letter
∫Letter ofofInterest”
Interest∫ to the Office of Boards and should call 410-396-6883 or contact the Committee at 751 Eastern Avenue, ---
Commissions, 751 Eastern Avenue, Baltimore, Maryland 21202, Atten- Baltimore, Maryland 21202. If a bid is submitted by a joint venture
tion: Mari B. Ross. Since these letters are utilized to assist small, minority (”JV”), then in that event, the document that established the JV shall Truthful man seeking spiritual pen pals. Womb my emana-
and women business enterprises in identifying potential teaming partners, be submitted with the bid for verification purposes. The tion. Law is unification. Breath, knowledge and conscious-
the letters should be submitted within five (5) days of the date of the Prequalification Category required for bidding on this project is A02602
project¬s advertisement. The letter should contain a contact person Bituminous Concrete Paving OR F02200 Earthwork & Site Preparation
project’s ness! William Piggie, P.O. Box 565, Pittsboro, N.C. 27312
Failure to submit a “Letter
∫Letter of Interest∫ will not disqualify a firm submitting Cost Qualification Range for this work shall be $3,000,000.01 to
of Interest” ---
a proposal for the project. $4,000,000.00
A ”Pre-Bidding Information” session will be conducted at 2600 Madison
Each prime consultant applying for this Project will be required to Avenue, Baltimore, Maryland 21217 on Tuesday, February 8, 2011 at Lonesome Hearts - Pen Pals
complete and submit an original Federal Form 255, along with five (5) 10:00 A.M. To have a notice published in the Strictly Personal Section,
copies, to the Office of Boards and Commissions. The Federal Form Principal Items of work for this project are:
255 and the five copies must be submitted on or before 12:00 P.M. Grading and Bituminous Concrete PavingThe MBE goal is 19% write the message you want printed in the space below.
(Noon) on Thursday, March 10, 2011. Submittals may not be accepted The WBE goal is 5% Enclose ten dollars ($10.00), check or money order for 25
after this deadline. CONTRACT NO. RP09833 words. NO CASH PLEASE. Additional words will cost 50
APPROVED:
Prequalification Requirement Bernice H. Taylor cents each.
All architectural, engineering, and surveying firms listed in the specific Clerk, Board of Estimates
proposal for the Project must be prequalified by the Office of Boards APPROVED:
and Commissions for each applicable discipline at time of submittal for Alfred H. Foxx
this Project. Information regarding the prequalification process can be Director of Public Works
obtained by calling the Office of Boards and Commissions on
410.396.6883.

Insurance Requirements
The consultant selected for the award of this project shall provide
professional liability, auto liability, and general liability and workers ¬
compensation insurances as required by the City of Baltimore.
afro.com
• Your History • Your Community
To answer a Lonesome Heart notice, enclose a check or mon-
ey order for $2.00 for each letter you wish to have forwarded.
NO CASH PLEASE. Be sure to include the fox number of
• Your News
MBE/WBE Requirements the person you wish to contact.
It is the policy of the City of Baltimore to promote equal business
opportunity in the City’s
City¬s contracting process. Pursuant to Article 5
Subtitle 28 of Baltimore City Code (2000 Edition) - Minority and Women’s
Business Program, Minority Business Enterprise (MBE) and Women’s
Women¬s
Women¬s
All letters, queries and notices should be sent to:
Business Enterprise (WBE) participation goals apply to this contract. STRICTLY PERSONAL
The MBE goal is 27% 2519 N. Charles Street
The WBE goal is 9%
Baltimore, MD 21218
Both the proposed Minority and Women’s
Women¬s Business Enterprise firms must
be named and identified as an MBE or WBE within Item 6 of the Standard
Form (SF) 255 in the spaces provided for identifying outside key
consultants/associates anticipated for utilization for this project.
Any submittals that do not include the proper MBE/WBE (in some
instances DBE) participation will be disapproved for further consideration
for this project.

Verifying Certification
Each firm submitting a SF 255 for consideration for a project is
responsible for verifying that all MBEs and WBEs to be utilized on the
project are certified by the Minority and Women’s
Women¬s Business Opportunity
Office (MWBOO) prior to submitting the proposal. A directory of certified
MBEs and WBEs is available from MWBOO. Since changes to the
directory occur daily, firms submitting SF 255s should call MWBOO at
(410)396-4355 to verify certification, expiration dates and services that
the MBE or WBE is certified to provide.

Non-Affiliation
A firm submitting a proposal may not use an MBE or WBE to meet a
contract goal if:

1. The firm has a financial interest in the MBE or WBE

2. The firm has an interest in the ownership or control of the MBE or
WBE
3. The firm is significantly involved in the operation of the MBE or WBE
(Article 5, Subtitle 28-41).

A firm submitting as a prime consultant that fails to comply with the

requirements of Article 5, Subtitle 28 of Baltimore City Code when
executing a contract is subject to the following penalties: suspension of
a contract; withholding of funds; recision of contract based on material
breach; disqualification as a consultant from eligibility to provide services
to the City for a period not to exceed 2 years; and payment for damages
incurred by the City.
Additional Requirements
A resume for each person listed as key personnel and/or specialist,
including those from MBE and WBE firms, must be shown on the page
provided within the application.

Please be advised that for the purpose of reviewing price proposals and
invoices, the City of Baltimore defines a principal of a firm as follows:

A principal is any individual owning 5% or more of the outstanding stock

of an entity, a partner of a partnership, a 5% or more shareholder of a
sub-chapter “S”,
¬S¬ Corporation, or an individual owner.
Out-of-State Corporations must identify their corporate resident agent
within the application.
Firms will not be considered for a specific project if they apply as both
a sub-consultant and prime consultant.

The applications for this Project (Form 255) cannot be supplemented

with any additional information such as graphs, photographs, organ-
ization chart, etc. All such information should be incorporated into the
appropriate pages. Applications should not be bound. Applications should
simply be stapled in the upper left-hand corner. Cover sheets should not
be included. Inclusion and/or submittal of additional material may result
in the applicant being disqualified from consideration for this project.

Failure to follow directions of this advertisement or the application may

cause disqualification of the submittal.
Mari B. Ross
Executive Secretary
B8 The Afro-American, February 5, 2011 - February 11, 2011
Faith Pulse
Courtesy Photo
Michael Higgenbottom and Louis Gosset
Jr.
The Grace Card
The Grace Card, a powerful story
of grace and forgiveness, will open in
theaters across the country on Feb. 25,
with star power that includes Michael
Joiner, Michael Higgenbottom and Louis
Gosset Jr. Set in Memphis, The Grace
Card features Gossett and centers on the
unlikely partnership between two cops:
Mac, embittered by tragedy, angry at life
and God and everyone else; and Sam, a
rising star in the department, promoted
over Mac. As Mac’s life nosedives, the
tension builds: can he accept grace from a
God he abandoned and a man he detests?
Director David Evans said, “The point
is to grab people by the heart.” Visit
thegracecardmovie.com for theater listings
and for more information, facebook.com/
TheGraceCard.
JDI Praise & Worship – Vol. 1
JDI Records’ first all-praise and worship
release, JDI Praise & Worship – Vol. 1,
features gospel greats Beverly Crawford,
Dorinda Clark-Cole, Norman Hutchins,
Professor James Roberson and others
singing their signature hits including “Lion
of Judah,” “Awesome God,” “Tis So Sweet
to Trust in Jesus” and the new radio hit
“Praise the Lord.”
“So many of the songs we’ve produced
Black history belongs to all of us. It’s not just other people’s stories from the past. It’s how these stories are passed down, reflected upon and used to start new chapters.
In our schools, in the workplace and in the community, new leaders are taking a stand and creating positive change every day. This shows us that Black History is alive
and well. And this is why we celebrate. Wells Fargo honors Black History and all pioneers of progress.
wellsfargo.com
© 2011 Wells Fargo Bank N.A., All rights reserved. Member FDIC.
over the years have become praise and
worship classics for various JDI artists…
we decided to offer all these great hits on
one CD,” said Roberson, president and
CEO of JDI Records. “Trust me; you are
going to be tremendously blessed by this
project!”
Available Feb. 1, this CD is the latest in
a string of hits from JDI Records, touted
by Billboard Magazine to be the fastest
growing record company in the world.
Date with Destiny: Find the Love You
Need
Bishop Joseph Walker contends in his
new book that finding the love you need
only happens when you discover your true
purpose for living. So he provides a guide
to deeper intimacy while shedding light
on the purpose in relationships for couples
– “to support and motivate each other in
working toward the attainment of their
individual destinies.”
As a companion, he’s also compiled a
book of devotions to equip couples “for
loving God’s way.”
Bishop Walker is pastor of Mt. Zion
Baptist Church in Nashville, Tenn. and a
regular contributor to the “Rickey Smiley
Show,” a nationally syndicated radio
program. He is also the author of Love
& Intimacy. For more information, visit
josephwalker3.org.
Courtesy Photo
Bishop Joseph Walker
Faithbytes
Jan. 30
The Music Department of Mount Calvary Holy Evangelistic Church presents an evening of
worship with Lynda Hodges in concert sharing hits from her debut CD, Free, 4 p.m., Jan. 30 at
2504 Naylor Road., S.E. Washington, D.C. For more information call 202-276-6437. The Rev.
Peggy Carroll is pastor of the church.
Feb. 11
Enjoy stage play vignettes by local playwright, Ursula Battle, at the Valentine Gala of New
Life Fellowship Worship Center, 8 p.m. at the Diamonds Event Center, 9980 Liberty Road, in
Randallstown. The gala will feature a buffet prepared by chef Benny Gordon and the Waxter
Center High Steppers. For tickets or more information, call 410-945-9001 or 410-544-8001.
The Rev. Edward and Helen Ferguson are pastors of New Life Fellowship Worship Center.
Full Slate of Gospel Stars to Appear
at Morgan State
Baltimore, Md. -- United Television, the gospel music like no other husband and
producers of The Allstate Gospel Superfest wife team I know,” state’s show executive
are all set to record over 30 national artists producer and founder Bobby Cartwright, Jr.
during its 12th Annual Gospel Superfest “They were also very instrumental in our
Celebration. The show will feature host, show’s development by blessing us with
Wendy Raquel Robinson (“The Game”) many artists in our early years.  We are very
as host and a star-studded line up. Some proud to salute them this year, as our first
of the performers include, Dorinda Clark industry executive-honorees.”  The Allstate
Cole, Tye Tribbett, Jonathan Nelson, Shirley Gospel Superfest Lifetime Achievement
Murdock, Hezekiah Walker, Lonnie Hunter & Award will be presented by Jeff Majors of
Structure, Keith Wonderboy Johnson, Richard Radio One and TV One.  Several surprise
Smallwood, Deitrick Haddon, Patrick Lundy guests are expected to participate in the
& M.O.M., Shekinah Glory, Phil Tarver, The tribute to Vickie and Claude.
Chicago Mass Choir, JJ Hairston & Youthful The show will continue taping, Saturday,
Praise, Stephen Hurd, Earnest Pugh, Lisa Feb. 5 with many of today’s top artists and
Page Brooks, and many others.  The show some very exciting new-comers to the gospel
will feature very special guests on Friday music scene. Newcomers The Pastor’s
night in the persons of David and Tamela Gloryland Choir, GLO, The Nevell Sisters,
Mann of the hit Tyler Perry sitcom “Meet Lacrae and Donte Everhart & the End Time
The Browns.”  This promises to be a two-day are slated to perform.
celebration that will inspire, encourage and The event will take place on the campus
uplift the anticipated thousands of attendees. of Morgan State University at the Carl
On Friday the show will pay special J. Murphy Fine Arts Center, 2201 Argonne
tribute and honor industry veterans and Drive in Baltimore.
powerhouse couple, Vickie Mack and Claude Show times are 7 p.m. on Feb. 4 and 6
Lataillad for lifetime achievement. p.m. on Feb. 5.  Doors open one hour prior to
The couple has been credited for the show start times nightly.
discovery of numerous gospel artists  Tickets for both nights are still available
including Kirk Franklin, Trin-i-tee 5:7, at www.ticketmaster.com or by calling 800-
Natalie Wilson & SOP and others 745-3000. More information on the show is
The Lataillades, have truly shaped modern also available at www.gospelsuperfest.com