Vol. 25 No. 21 (2029th Edition) PRST STD - U.S. POSTAGE PAID May 25 - 31, 2011 RICHMOND, VA PERMIT NO. 639 FREE Right result for the wrong reason African Burial Ground restoration begins in Richmond

Left: Workers ready the site of Richmond’s African Burial Ground for removal of asphalt and gravel for its conversion from a parking lot to a memorial. Right: El-Amin speaks to the media as Khalfani (left) and others listen.

A day before city and state officials gathered desecrated our ancestors,” said Khalfani, who we have heard their cries for respect,” he Council. “This is a city council commission.” to mark the beginning of the removal of asphalt called out VCU President Michael Rao and said, adding that their activism produced The city officially took possession of the and gravel from Richmond’s African Burial “cowardly” elected officials, both city and the right result for the wrong reason. El- burial ground site on May 23. The May 24 Ground, two vocal proponents of the burial state. They sought to have Rao disinvited. Amin elaborated that the governor signed event included Richmond Mayor Dwight ground sought to set the record straight Khalfani said that it was the collective over the burial ground to the city because C. Jones; McQuinn, chair of the Richmond about their level of involment. activism of his organization, El-Amin’s, and the long-standing dissention between VCU City Council Slave Trail Commission; King Salim Khalfani, executive director others, that pursuaded Gov. Bob McDonnell and the activists was a “distraction to the Kathy Graziano, president, Richmond City of the Virginia State Conference NAACP to sign a bill allowing the transfer of the 3.4- sesquicentennial” — commemoration of the Council; VCU’s Rao; and Ana Edwards of and Sa’ad El-Amin, founder of the Society acre parcel of land from VCU and the state 150th annivesary of the U.S. Civil War. the Defenders Sacred Ground Historical for the Preservation of African American to the city of Richmond. Khalfani also said Khalfani and El-Amin also made public Reclamation Project. Antiquities, held a press conference and it was their lobbying actions that led three their plans to lobby government officials for J. E. Liesfeld Contractor, Inc., Dwight Snead a brief ceremony honoring those buried local contractors to donate their services — additional changes. Among them, an official Construction Company and Ty’s Hauling underneath the asphalt. Khalfani and valued at $123,000 — for the removal of name change of the burial ground, to either and Paving, Inc. have began removing and El-Amin chose not to participate in the asphalt and gravel from the burial ground. African Burial Ground of Richmond or the hauling off the asphalt and gravel from the “dog and pony” official ceremony held “This was all done at the behest of the Richmond African Burial Ground and to burial ground. According to the city, on Tuesday, May 24, saying they were NAACP,” said Khalfani. find new leadership for the Richmond Slave El-Amin and Khalfani, the asphalt and disappointed in the actions of elected El-Amin, a former lawyer and Richmond Trail Commission, which recently unveiled gravel will be replaced by sod, a sprinkler officials who had the power to convert City Council member, who in recent 17 markers along the Richmond Slave Trail, system and lighting, among other things. the burial ground into a proper memorial months filed two suits in Richmond to stop including at the burial ground. It is unclear when the work will be but chose to let Virginia Commonwealth VCU from using the burial ground as a “The commission needs a new chairman,” completed but Khalfani said there is a five- University (VCU) use it as a parking lot parking lot, also condemned VCU’s Rao, said Khalfani, noting that current and year period to develop the site, located on instead. but indicated that he was looking forward. longtime chair, Del. Delores McQuinn is the 1500 block of East Broad Street, to “We will not stand with those who “We hope our ancestors are pleased that no longer a member of the Richmond City prevent it from reverting back to the state. 2 • May 25 - 31, 2011 LOCAL The Richmond Voice Children donate for playgrounds Children in the Richmond Department have not had the opportunity to experience of Parks, Recreation and Community the spontaneous joy of playing. Building Facilities’ After School Program revealed playgrounds gives these young people the last week that they raised $1,125 to help opportunity to reclaim their childhood. build playgrounds for children in Haiti Richmond’s Chief Service Officer Paul and Afghanistan. The children made Manning recognized the children for the announcement at the George Mason their donation as well as the After School Elementary School Playground. Program for the values it teaches. “The Each year, children in the program program not only provides a safe place for select a charity to support that helps other children after school; it is grooming future children and their families somewhere in residents and leaders as we help Build a Better the world. This year, the children decided Richmond and a better world,” he said. to raise funds by selling coupon books for Dr. David B. Jones, a board member of the International Childhood Enrichment ICEP and a professor of Recreation and Top: Paul Manning, Richmond’s chief service officer, addresses a group of children. Program (ICEP). ICEP notes that while Leisure Studies at the University of Maine, the situations in Haiti and Afghanistan was on hand to recognize the children and Left: Four children help announce that $1,125 was raised to help build playgrounds. differ vastly, children in both countries accept the donation. Right: Children enjoy their playground while celebrating the $1,125 they raised.

VCU increases 2011-12 tuition and fees, approves six-year plan The Virginia Commonwealth University other major research universities. 2012, state support for Virginia students at but strategic investments in faculty, student Board of Visitors has set tuition and “In the current economic climate, public VCU will have been reduced by $63.5 million scholarships and libraries by reallocating mandatory fees for the 2011-2012 academic universities must work diligently to ensure – about 31 percent -- the largest reduction university resources and taking advantage year and adopted a six-year strategic plan. financial access for qualified students among four-year institutions in Virginia. of savings realized primarily through the Undergraduate, in-state students will pay combined with a conscientious commitment “VCU remains proud that it educates the active management of energy costs. $9,517 in tuition and mandatory fees for the to academic quality and the assurance that largest number of in-state students of any The VCU Board of Visitors also approved upcoming academic year. That is a $700 or students are able to succeed in the long of the state’s four-year universities, but in VCU Quest for Distinction, a new six-year 7.9 percent increase over current tuition and term,” said VCU President Michael Rao. doing so, it consequently suffers the largest strategic plan that establishes a roadmap mandatory fees. Out-of-state undergraduate “VCU continues to transform the lives of its state cut in state appropriations,” Rao said. to reach VCU’s vision as the nation’s tuition and mandatory fees was set at students and we need to be sure that we are doing “State support per in-state VCU student premier public urban research university $22,949, a $1,000 increase. so as effectively and efficiently as possible.” in fiscal year 2012 stands at 58 percent of distinguished by commitments to academic University officials say the increase is University officials also note that the rates what it was in fiscal year 2011.” quality and student success. in the range of tuition and mandatory fee reflect the impact of ongoing reductions in Rao called the budget austere and said “The Quest plan captures the best of our levels established by the state’s other four- state support for VCU’s in-state students. As it continues to manage the decline in state opportunities in a way that is realistic,” year institutions, VCU’s tuition and that of July 1, VCU will receive $41 million less funding and “is sensitive to the financial Rao said. “It is a responsible plan that will mandatory fees remain slightly below the in federal and state funding than it did the concerns of our students and their families.” measure our progress in meeting our goals state’s average and significantly below the year before. Between fiscal years 2008 and He said the budget accommodates modest and objectives over the next six years.” The Richmond Voice May 25 - 31, 2011 • 3 4 • May 25 - 31, 2011 The Richmond Voice

Happy Birthday Vet turns up heat to help mil. families Dorothy V. Harris A former Army Ranger and now a of those who serve,” said Bob Okun, chair recognized Bikram “Hot” Yoga instructor of ThanksUSA. “He’s a real inspiration has t a ken on a new role: to provide educationa l spiritually and, I have to say, physically as opportunities for military families. well. His yoga stretches your body to the Jim Ambrogi, a wounded veteran of limits of heat and stress with extraordinary Vietnam and Operation Desert Storm in results. His commitment to ThanksUSA is Iraq, has launched a fundraising campaign just as extraordinary.” for ThanksUSA, a charity that provides A native of Massachusetts, Ambrogi the families of military men and women enlisted in the Army at age 20 and served with needs-based, post-secondary school for 22 years. A marathon runner and body- scholarships. Ambrogi has devoted May – builder, he suffered several combat injuries, National Military Appreciation Month – to which required several surgeries, leaving fund scholarship awards through donations, him with a 60 percent disability rating from Love and Miss You, drawings for yoga mats and outfits, and the Veterans Administration. It was then Ruth, Alfred, Frances, prizes offered by local businesses. that he turned to Bikram, becoming one of Grandaughter Yvonne, Ambrogi’s new initiative fits well with its top masters and later introducing the “hot And Great-Grandson Marcus “Joining Forces,” the national program yoga trend” to the Washington, D.C. region. announced in April by First Lady Michelle The founder of Bikram Yoga, Bikram 5/26/1918 - 5/10/1991 Obama and Jill Biden, wife of Vice Choudhury, sees the studios’ effort to President Joe Biden. They have called on all support military families as an extension of Americans to “to mobilize, take action and their work. make a real commitment to supporting our “Our studios have helped to heal wounded military families,” Michelle Obama said. warriors in many communities, and we Ambrogi’s campaign is centered at his would like to also support their families Bikram studio in Alexandria, Northern through ThanksUSA,” said Choudhury. Virginia. Bikram Yoga involves strenuous So far, 22 Bikram studios are participating poses and stretches, completed at 105 in “Bikram Salutes Military Families” degrees Fahrenheit. During May, Ambrogi including two in the Richmond area. has asked his students and fellow yogis to Since its inception in 2006, ThanksUSA, stretch open their wallets, too. a non-profit, has provided over $6 million “I discovered the healing powers of in academic scholarship assistance to Bikram Yoga firsthand when I turned to America’s military families throughout the discipline to help me recover from all 50 states, with particular attention my debilitating wounds. I became healthy given to those whose loved one was killed and strong again both physically and or wounded in action, according to the emotionally,” said Ambrogi. “Now, with organization. ThanksUSA’s scholarship Bikram, I can also help others, many of program is unique in that both spouses and whom are vets just like me. I am just as children of active-duty men and women can dedicated to helping military families apply to the same organization for support. through ThanksUSA and the gift of The scholarships directly benefit those who education. There is healing in helping, too.” most need and deserve the opportunity to Ambrogi has challenged other Bikram transform their lives, but lack the resources studios nationwide to follow his lead and to do so. Recipients represent all military join his campaign by developing their own branches – Army, Marine Corps, Navy, Air fundraising efforts. Force, Coast Guard, National Guard and “Our families back home sacrifice as Reserve – and come from each of the 50 much as any of us on the battlefield. I’m states and the District of Columbia. confident that other Bikram studios, along “As Jim Ambrogi and so many others with my students, will also want to help understand, ThanksUSA offers much- military children and spouses through the needed hope and encouragement to each gift of education,” he said. member of America’s broad military family “Jim is going above and beyond the call and a visible role for supporters to re-invest of duty in helping boost the number of in a resilient military community and a scholarships we can award to the families stronger America,” according to ThanksUSA. The Richmond Voice May 25 - 31, 2011 • 5 TJX retail combo offers one-stop shopping The Richmond retail landscape will have committed to being good neighbors,” a new addition this week when The TJX TJX representatives note. “For more Companies, the largest off-price retailer than 25 years, T.J.Maxx has built a deep in the U.S. and worldwide, opens a new relationship with Save The Children. The combo store. The new 52,000 square foot Richmond store will join all other stores store opening on May 26 at 8 a.m., is nationwide in sponsoring a child in the located at the Chesterfield Towne Center. Save The Children U.S. Program. T.J.Maxx The T.J. Maxx store at 1321 Carmia Way also supports Autism Speaks and Joslin will relocate to Chesterfield Towne Center Diabetes Center with an annual in-store and will be joined by HomeGoods as a new fundraising campaign. combo store. “HomeGoods is committed to helping T.J. Maxx offers low prices on brand families fight cancer all across the country name and designer fashions for men, and is proud to partner with one of the women and childred, including an ever- leading pediatric cancer treatment centers changing assortment of accessories; in the county, St. Jude Children’s Research including jewelry, ladies shoes, handbags, Hospital, by conducting in-store fundraising belts and luggage. programs and awareness campaigns “With 10,000 pieces of new merchandise throughout the year.” arriving weekly to the Richmond location, Grand opening hours for both locations it’s a whole new store every time,” according The Chesterfield Towne Center store is to fill approximately 60 full and part-time are from 8 a.m. to 8 p.m. and regular store to a TJX press release. the first HomeGoods in Richmond. positions. hours are Monday through Saturday 10 a.m. HomeGoods, on the other hand, offers This combo store features separate “T.J. Maxx and HomeGoods are to 9 p.m.; Sunday noon to 6 p.m. “an exciting, ever-changing selection of entrances, two distinct store environments high-quality home fashions at prices 20 and a common pass-through that TJX percent to 60 percent less than department representatives say allows customers the and specialty store regular prices, every added convenience of shopping both stores. Kingdom Ministries day,” according to the press release. The stores expect to hire local residents Global Church New law will protect warrant paperwork VACP - Beginning July 1, you will not John G. “Chip” Dicks, legislative be able to see search warrant affidavits as counsel for the Virginia Court Clerks’ soon as they are filed in your local circuit Association, said he met with the clerks, court clerk’s office. law enforcement, the press association A section of Virginia’s code on search and other stakeholders to build consensus Now holding warrant affidavits —sworn statements by on the new language. police detailing why they want to search a According to Hargrove, when a circuit Sunday Worship Service at person’s property — was modified during court clerk’s office receives an affidavit, the 10:00 a.m. this year’s General Assembly session. office marks it as received. With the new Trinity Family Life Center Under the modified code, the public may law, the affidavit will not be made publicly inspect these documents “after the warrant available until the warrant is executed or 2nd Floor - 3601 Dill Road that is the subject of the affidavit has been 15 days have passed since the warrant was Richmond, Virginia 23236 executed or 15 days after the issuance of the issued. Hargrove said it will be clear if a 1-800-690-0144 warrant, whichever is earlier …” clerk’s office is following the new law by The code change was spurred by HB checking the date stamps on the affidavits. www.wearekmg.org 1479, sponsored by Del. Manoli Loupassi, The amended law doesn’t place a time All are Welcome R-Chesterfield. When asked why the period on how long law enforcement change was made, Loupassi said he could agencies have to file the returned Graduation Greeting not recall the issue that spurred the code documents in the clerk’s office. Dicks said 5 lines with a picture, Only $25. change request or who asked for it. police departments have different policies Appearing on June 15, 2011 Ginger Stanley, executive director of the about when return service should occur, so Virginia Press Association, said Loupassi’s the new language allows those departments Submission deadline: June 10 bill was put in because of problems in the to keep their existing policies. Richmond and Chesterfield areas. State code mandates that law enforcement E-mail greeting to: “There were criminals using search warrants agencies must file executed search warrants [email protected] and/ to find out if search warrants had been taken within three days after they are served. or mail check to 205 E. Clay St. out for their associates,” Stanley said. Richmond, VA 23219 6 • May 25 - 31, 2011 OP-ED The Richmond Voice Life’s outtakes: Student communications Most of my college students are bright, watch them, but it took two full days and I fun to teach, and work hard. But each didn’t sleep at all. semester I get interesting letters, emails, Dear Professor Howard, I saw on the and phone calls from a few students. I save Internet that you were responsible for these, and occasionally I compile them hiring tutors in statistics, and I need a job. into a column. Last year I shared some of I have never had statistics or anything, but these, and I thought I’d share a few more I’m sure it couldn’t be that hard. this week. This semester, some of my Dear Professor Howard, I won’t be in colleagues have also forwarded some on class on Friday. I am planning on being sick to me, and the first three are from them. that day. I don’t think any of these comments need Dear Professor Howard, I’m sorry I have any explanation, other than to say I changed missed so much class this semester. I do or removed any names for anonymity, and plan to come, but every time I think about some I had to pare down a bit. it, I get a headache. Dear Professor, I have a complaint. I Dear Professor Howard, I’m sorry but I don’t feel the test we took was fair. I know won’t be in class today. I have to go to a that in class today, as we went over the funeral. I’m sorry for the late notice, but my TheThe VOICEVOICE UnleashedUnleashed results from it, you said that the questions uncle didn’t inform us that he was going to Memorial Day signifies the beginning of beach and grilling season. For many, on it were taken from the homework die. however, Memorial Day holds more significance because it commemorates the men without even changing the numbers. Even Dear Professor Howard, I would like to and women who lost their lives in battle. That is especially true for those who have if that is the case, I feel you chose the ones talk to you. You have given me lots of point served and lost their fellow soldiers, or those who have fallen family members and that weren’t the mainstream homework deductions for turning my assignments in friends. Take the case of retired Colonel Andrew Bacevich, a Vietnam veteran, who problems, because every single problem on late. Do you think that is fair? I always lost his son four years ago, while serving in Iraq. the test was one I skipped because I didn’t turned in my stuff late in high school, and He said last year that rather than contemplating the reality of what American wars, feel I really needed to do it. the teacher never docked points. Is this past or present, have wrought, we choose to look away, preferring the beach, the Dear Professor, I looked at my grade, and some stupid college thing, or what? ballgame and the prospect of another summer. it is really low. I noticed that I don’t have Dear Professor Howard, I really bombed “When I was a kid growing up in the Midwest, we certainly didn’t travel to any points for the quizzes we take each day the exam, and I can’t figure out why. I was cemeteries,” he said during an interview with National Public Radio. “We had at the beginning of class. I was wondering sure I knew everything. But now I need all barbecues and took the day off. Even for the most of the time when I was a serving if you would mind taking them off of my the points I can get, so I was wondering if I soldier, that was a non-duty day, and that typically meant that I’d just go to the office grade. I don’t think it is fair to count them were to do the homework and turn it in late and take care of all the things that I’d fallen behind on. And I say that with some against me because 10:15 is way too early if I could get some points. embarrassment because one would think that a serving soldier would be acutely conscious to get up for class. So it is not my fault that Dear Professor Howard, since we have of the sacrifices made by other soldiers, but at least for me that was not the case.” I am always late. barely finished two weeks of school, we His son’s death changed that. Dear Professor, I have some family things haven’t had any homework yet, right? “That certainly gave me and my family an entirely different perspective on what that have come up and will not be there the Dear Professor Howard, I wanted to Memorial Day was all about and I think reminded us of what the purpose of this first week of the semester. I hope this won’t let you know why I haven’t been in class holiday was from the outset, which was not to have barbecues and go off to the beach.” cause you any incontinence. this week. I have been having horrible So while we should have barbecues and go to the beach, we should also take just Dear Professor Howard, I want to migraines, so I had to go to the health a few minutes out of our heavily planned day, on May 30, this year, and say thank apologize for missing class the last couple center and get fixed. you in memory of the brave soldiers who died in service to country. Veterans, we of days, and also for falling asleep in class know that every day for you is Memorial Day as you are always thinking of and Daris Howard is a syndicated columnist, today. I haven’t been able to watch my soap remembering your fallen comrades. We, on the other hand, have 364 days to forget writer, playwright and teacher. He can be operas for nearly four months. I’ve been about their sacrifices, but on Monday, we remember with you. - MJ recording them, and I finally decided to contacted at [email protected]

Assistant to the Publisher Production THE VOICE NEWSPAPER is copyrighted. Marlene Jones Denise Smith THE VOICE NEWSPAPER assumes no Gloria Fair responsibility for unsolicited material. [email protected] Any use or reproduction, in part or whole, is Jack J. Green, Publisher forbidden without the expressed written Editor Administrative Specialist permission of the publisher. ® 2010. [email protected] Algeree M. Johnson Tina Riddick-Harris Opinions expressed by THE VOICE NEWSPAPER columnists and letter writers are their own and HOW TO REACH US: [email protected] no endorsements of their views by THE VOICE Distribution 205 E. Clay St. NEWSPAPER should be inferred. Hakeen Ross Richmond, VA 23219 Sales THE VOICE NEWSPAPER is audited by [email protected] Carlton Jackson Verified Audit Circulation. (804)644-9060 (main) • (804)644-5617(fax) Scott McCormick THE VOICE NEWSPAPER is a member www.voicenewspaper.com Kamau Islam of the National Newspapers Publishers Association(NNPA) and Virginia Press E-mail letters to the editor at YEARLY SUBSCRIPTION RATES FOREIGN COUNTRIES $50 Association(VPA). [email protected] STATE OF VIRGINIA $30 (52 EDITIONS A YEAR) ALL OTHER STATES $40 The Richmond Voice LETTERS TO THE EDITOR May 25 - 31, 2011 • 7 P.T. Hoffsteader, Esq. Hoffsteader, P.T. Alternatives are better secretly supported terrorist actions when he Enough with the revelations relevant to the performance of their jobs. The recent shadow of the terrible was eight years old. So many secrets! Rick Welts, “I’m gay.” Don Lemon, None of this has anything to do with catastrophe at Japan’s Fukushima Nuclear FactCheck.org called Corsi’s work “a “I’m gay.” Will Sheridan, “I’m gay.” workplace camaraderie. None of this is plant still shrouds our discussions on mishmash of unsupported conjecture, half- Uhhhhhhhhhh, ENOUGH! anyone’s business. nuclear power in Virginia. Dominion truths, logical fallacies and outright falsehoods.” Who cares? Does the public really care This public confessional will not make Power, however, has apparently already There’s really no way to make this stuff about their sex lives? Who these people them a better executive, a better anchor, forgotten this incident. During its recent completely go away. The only thing we can choose to be romantic with is of no concern or a better singer. As a matter of fact, shareholder meeting last week in central do is laugh at it -- and make sure as many to me and should be of no concern to those if I admitted to a co-worker that I was Virginia, plans were made to expand its other people as possible are in on the joke. who know them. a Christian (and they did not share my nuclear power plant in Louisa County. Not Julianna Smoot Rick Welts is the president of the Phoenix belief), it could be construed as workplace only does this decision concern me from Washington, D.C. Suns professional basketball team. Don harassment. Just ask any human resources a human health perspective, it also leads Lemon is a weekend anchor for CNN in professional. me to the discouraging conclusion that All about being an inmate Atlanta. Will Sheridan played college But, from all the media accounts of these Dominion has once again relegated clean My intention was to write about the basketball for Rutgers University and is confessionals, you would have thought they energy sources like wind and solar to the conditions at the Richmond City Jail but now an aspiring singer. just survived the Holocaust. backburner. These alternatives are clean, my mind went elsewhere. The mind of an [Last] week each of them, independent of Raynard Jackson safe, and cost effective. inmate… if they only knew. For example: each other, admitted in the media that they Washington, D.C. So while Dominion Virginia Power has In the beautiful yet wayward streets of were gay. They were not caught in some decided it’s best to continue along the path Richmond, ex-or soon-to-be inmates rob compromising position and threatened with Allen hypocrisy shows of nuclear power, I worry about the health and kill each other over territory that blackmail. They just felt the public had a During George Allen’s campaign in 2006, of Virginians now and in the future as these doesn’t belong to any of us. Consequence? “right” to know. he made a derogatory remark (“macaca”) nuclear reactors age. It is our future and I What else but incarceration. On the streets, Lemon [said], “I think if you’re going to toward an individual member of the think most Virginian’s would agree that a it is pretty much every man for himself. be in the business of news and telling people audience. Some would say that this remark future dependent upon clean and renewable Inside the jail, it’s side against side the truth, of trying to shed light in dark cost him his senatorial seat. sources of energy is much brighter than one (South Side vs. North Side, East vs. West). places, then you’ve got to be honest. You’ve Now, he is campaigning to regain the powered by radioactive elements. Curiously, it is the state system where the got to have the same rules for yourself as Senate seat. What concerns me is Allen Daniel Carawan whole Richmond group battles other parts you do for everyone else.” never publicly apologized to the residents Richmond of Virginia. In the federal system, the Are you kidding me? One of the of the commonwealth of Virginia for this Virginia group battles others parts of the supposed tenets of journalism is to report blunder. Mishmash and loony-ness country. What the — is wrong with us? what happens and not become part of the Allen, a Republican, who became Let me introduce you to Jerome Corsi. I am speaking from experience within story. What does his sexual preference governor in 1994, urged a major expansion [Last] week he released a new book that all those mental, penal institutions. The have to do with his reporting on a story? of prison facilities as a key element of an the publisher says will be a bestseller “of “merry-go-round” as it is called, where So, Mr. Lemon, I want to know how much anti-crime crusade, which included the historic proportions.” the high get locked up back and forth, money you make, your home address, abolishing of parole. During his campaign, The title is “Where’s the Birth [allows us] to adapt and believe me, we are your cell and home numbers, your social his message was to eliminate parole for Certificate?” – yes, really. extremely joyful and comfortable with our security number, the name and address of violent offenders, but he later abolished Corsi’s work is a greatest-hits reel of living conditions behind the barbwire. your parents, etc. parole for every offender who committed delusions, ranging from 9/11 conspiracies We need help! It’s getting worse. You out Lemon is basically saying that we, the felony after January 1995. His basic message to claiming that there is an infinite supply there have the statistics about mental health public, have a “right” to know his deepest, was that we couldn’t be rehabilitated. of oil in the Earth’s core. In 2008, he issues concerning inmates. What I read darkest, most private information. This is His re-election quest is a clear picture of published a book about Barack Obama says 16-18 percent [but] from experience it ludicrous. hypocrisy. He is basically saying he can be claiming, among other things, that he (a) is much higher. We are sick. I am really having a difficult time forgiven but we cannot. is a secret Muslim; (b) is secretly anti- E. W. understanding why the public needs to Samuel Harris military; (c) secretly dealt drugs; and (d) Richmond City Jail know this. None of this information is Nottoway Correctional Center 8 • May 25 - 31, 2011 RELIGION The Richmond Voice Scientist chastised for decrying religion Keeping the Faith Scientists make terrible theologians. That’s the opinion of physicist and researcher Scott M. Tyson, who thinks The gospel... colleague Stephen Hawking was wrong according to Nicks to dismiss the concept of life after death. Just down the road from my house is a Hawking recently explained in a newspaper restaurant, gathering place, watering hole interview his belief that there is no God and called Nick’s. This is a legendary seafood that humans should therefore seek to live joint frequented by tourists and locals, the most valuable lives they can while on by fisherman, national figures, and the Earth. occasional celebrity. “I have lived with the prospect of an early Aesthetically, and I say this with affection, death for the last 49 years,” Hawking told Nick’s is not much to look at. The building The Guardian. “I'm not afraid of death, is constructed from whitewashed, concrete blocks, now decades old. The parking lot is but I'm in no hurry to die. I have so much I want to do first. I regard the brain as a computer which will stop working when By Ronnie McBrayer its components fail. There is no heaven or afterlife for broken down computers; that is I have no argument against some of a fairy story for people afraid of the dark.” often flooded with rainwater, and chickens these things. I like technology, beautifully But Tyson believes that Hawking’s roam about in the yard. built buildings, the smell of new paint, comments may serve to do more harm than The ceiling is too low for my liking, and parking lots that don’t flood. But like good for both people of faith and people of and the view of the surrounding bayou is many folks, I would rather wade across science. obscured by windows a touch too dark. So a river in hip-boots to be with people Scott M. Tyson “I think that people in general believe if you were driving by, uninformed and who care about me – to be in that place uninitiated regarding this establishment, where everybody knows your name, than that scientists don’t believe in God, and everywhere. That’s part of the weight of you might think Nick’s to be some notorious to be treated like just another consumer that’s just not true,” said Tyson, author of his celebrity on the scientific community hole-in-the-wall dive, and keep driving. through the turnstiles. The Unobservable Universe: A Paradox- as a whole. His comments are out of line That would be your incalculable loss. David Di Sabatino, former editor of Free Framework for Understanding the and further complicate complex issues like For three generations, the Nick family “Worship Leader Magazine,” said this: Universe (www.theunobservableuniverse. stem cell research, in which faith effectively has been serving glorious local seafood, “Silence every radio and television com). “History is filled with scientists who shucking the best Gulf Coast oysters, and blocks the use of scientific discoveries that preacher, stop every evangelical book or were also men of faith, from Copernicus, slinging the coldest brew around. Trey tract from being published, take down could heal people and ease their suffering Galileo, and Newton to Einstein. Now, I do and Jennifer Nick, the restauranteurs that every evangelical website from the net. – a concept not inconsistent with the tenets also believe that there are other scientists now operate this roadside oasis, keep the We would be better off.” of most organized religions,” Tyson added. who would like to prove that God doesn’t parking lot flooded alright; flooded with Di Sabatino, a committed Christian, was “But science oftentimes becomes blocked exist. These scientists might want to rain cars. People just can’t stay away. not denying the need or benefit of some politically and socially not because the This has a lot to do with the food, of (but certainly not all) of this promotional on everyone else’s parades with respect science contradicts religion, but because the course, but that’s not the main draw. The paraphernalia. His intention, and his bold to God really, really badly. The problem argument is framed in an ‘us versus them’ Nicks know how to make you feel welcome. words, was meant to be a counterweight is that one of the limitations of science context. We inadvertently challenge people They make you feel at home. And what the – a necessary counterweight – to so is that science simply cannot prove the to either believe in science or to believe in atmosphere lacks visually, it more than many faith communities obsessed with non-existence of objects and phenomena God, at the exclusion of the other. It’s an makes up for with sincere friendship. the mega-merchandising of their image. over the full spectrum of possibilities. So, Now, this doesn’t mean I like everything unreasonable and unnecessary position in Di Sabatino’s solution is modest, but while scientists may be able to prove in a on the menu, the low ceiling, or all of the powerful: “Simply ask Christians to show which to place anyone.” scientific framework that there is no life Auburn University apparatus hanging one tangible expression of Jesus’ love to What’s worse, according to Tyson, is that after death, they cannot, nor should they on the walls. But I love being there, and another person every day.” people who believe in both science and even attempt to, prove it in a theological judging by the time it takes to get a table, Let’s face it: Elegant buildings, comfortable faith get left out or, worse, placed into the framework, which is the territory of faith. I’m not the only one. parking lots, expertly executed marketing difficult situation of needlessly choosing The church could learn a few things plans, Disney-ready children’s programs, To do so creates unnecessary divisiveness sides. from the Nick family. Their success and stage-practiced Sunday services will that can serve no beneficial purpose. And “Millions of people practice their faith is not the result of clever marketing, draw a crowd; a big crowd. But for all that’s the line Dr. Hawking crossed – he but then also believe in the veracity of pumping thousands of dollars into publicity their ingenuity, these things may not build essentially discounted the idea in both Darwin’s evolution,” he said. “Many in the campaigns, or arguing that their food is relationships, foster discipleship in the frameworks, and nothing good could come scientific community view science through better than some competitor down the street. way of Christ, or sustain community. of that.” No, the gospel according to Nick’s is their faith, rather than in spite of it. When The only way people are going to care Tyson’s concern is that Hawking’s quite simple: Welcome people as friends, about anything we have to say will be scientists discount theology in a wholesale comments deepen the rift between the surround them with love, and then send when they know we care about them as fashion, they not only insult the faithful scientific and religious communities, them out satisfied, with joy in their heart unique, distinct individuals, and not as who discount science, but also the faithful erecting hurdles that only diminish the and a good word to share on their lips. a means to padding our pews and our who embrace it. It discourages and further prospects for potential good that science In this day when “image is everything,” coffers. The Nicks are right. Treat people polarizes the dialogue between the two it’s easy for the church to cave in to like family. Feed them well. And send could do for humanity. disciplines and increases the challenges prevailing corporate wisdom: We need them on their way with joy. “Dr. Hawking is probably one of only a that science must overcome in its quest to focus groups, brand management, handful of scientists in the world who is Ronnie McBrayer is the author of “Leaving better comprehend the nature of our world facilities designed by customer relation a household name,” he added. “In many firms, state of the art technology, and Religion, Following Jesus.” He writes ways, he’s the captain of the team, he’s the for the betterment of society, goals that I and speaks about life, faith, and Christ- flawless delivery of religious goods to centered spirituality. Visit his website www. quarterback, so when he speaks, millions of and many other scientists will continue to our clients. people believe he is speaking for scientists embrace.” ronniemcbrayer.net. The Richmond Voice May 25 - 31, 2011 • 9 Demand to delay private adoption agencies from discrimination The ACLU of Virginia and more than 25 Executive Director Kent Willis. “We want noting that private adoption agencies, other organizations and individuals have an opportunity for the Board to hear what including faith-based groups, should not be asked the Virginia Board of Social Services Virginia residents really think, and the only allowed to discriminate when they perform to postpone the issuance of regulations way to do that is to reopen the process.” “a quintessentially governmental function,” that allow faith-based organizations in the The Social Services Board seemed poised such as certifying adoptive parents or state to discriminate in adoptions based on to add regulations prohibiting private placing children with foster parents. sexual orientation. adoption agencies from discriminating on Under the Virginia Administrative The request to delay implementation and the basis of sexual orientation, gender, age, Process Act, state agencies must delay reopen the public comment period comes religion, political beliefs, disability and implementation of rules and reopen the after the board voted 7-2 on April 20 to family status. public comment period when they receive reject a proposal to ban discrimination But heavy lobbying from faith-based 25 requests, and the change between the based on sexual orientation. groups, which argued that they should be proposed rule and the published rules will “The vote by the Board of Social Services able to screen prospective parents based have a “substantial impact.” to reject the non-discrimination regulations on their religious or moral beliefs doomed At the April 20 meeting, Social took place too quickly without ample the proposal. Attorney General Ken Services Board chairwoman Bela Sood Kent Willis public notice,” said ACLU of Virginia Cuccinelli also weighed in, telling the sought a postponement of the vote on board that it lacked the authority to ban the regulations, citing lack of time for religious groups from discriminating. appropriate public comment. But her The ACLU of Virginia, which has fought motion was voted down, and the board Left behind? So is most of Earth for the right of religious organizations to act proceeded to overwhelmingly reject the By Stephen O’Leary Disappointment and eventually evolved on their religious beliefs, issued a statement non-discrimination proposal. What happens to Harold Camping and into what is now the Seventh-Day Adventist his followers now that they are faced Church. That church continues to thrive, with the bitter realization that their attracting converts around the world; its R. J. Griffin & Company is currently seeking bids from qualified predictions of the Rapture and the Last members continue to believe that we are subcontractors and suppliers for the Henrico Doctor’s Hospital Judgment are mistaken? They have reacted living in the Last Days and to anticipate the construction project. Richmond and surrounding area businesses to their disappointment by saying they are soon return of Jesus. And their story is not are invited to attend a Diversity Meet & Greet to learn more about opportunities associated with this upcoming project. “flabbergasted” by their incorrect prophecy unique, but has been repeated dozens and apparently miscalculated by five months. even hundreds of times throughout history. R. J. Griffin & Companyand HCA are strongly committed to the Oct. 21 is the new date for the Last Judgement. In the face of incontrovertible evidence development and implementation of initiatives which promote The history of prophecy is a long litany of faulty logic and mistaken certainty, the inclusion of minority and women-owned businesses. of such disappointments. One thing that apocalyptic believers demonstrate time What: Project includes a 2,740 sqft renovation to the third floor Labor apocalyptic predictions throughout history and time again the resilience of their faith. and Delivery Dept., including a new C-Section room. In addition, have in common is that, without exception, Camping had predicted, with all the an 8,443 sqft renovation to the ground floor Cath Lab including a they have all been wrong. certainty that he can muster, that the Last new Hybrid O.R. with support space will be constructed. The powerful attraction of the apocalyptic Judgment would occur on May 21. vision is visible in the trail of debris left But this prediction was not his first. When: Thursday, June 2, 2011 behind by prophets and their followers, Nearly 20 years ago, he proclaimed that 6:00 p.m. – 8:00 p.m. endless pages of chronological calculations Jesus would return in September 1994. Where: Henrico Doctor’s Hospital – Parham Campus performed with the feverish energy of a moth Camping’s apocalyptic faith has already Medical Office Building circling a flame, continually tempted and survived his own great disappointment, Board Room – Suite 312 finally burned by predictive overconfidence. and is about to be tested one more time. 7702 E. Parham Road The all-too-evident mistakes of previous Based on the past history of Camping Richmond, VA 23294 generations have never been a deterrent and his predecessors: he will not admit his Bid Packages include: Interior Demolition • Doors/Frames/ Hardware • to those who seek to know the date of the mistake, but will recalculate yet again. Sprayed Fireproofing • Drywall • Resilient Flooring • Hard Tile • Painting world’s end. And if the historical record Given that he is almost 90 years old, and Wall Covering • Acoustical Ceiling • Electrical • Plumbing • Building is any guide, the last thing we can expect Camping may not survive this test of Foundation Concrete • Structural & Miscellaneous Steel • Storefront / of Camping and those who believe him is faith; but if he lives, we can expect him to Glass & Glazing • Rough Carpentry • Specialties • Casework • Pneumatic that they will publicly admit their mistake prophesy another day. And when he finally Tube Systems • Medical Gas Systems • HVAC • Fire Protection • Access Control Systems • Equipment Support Rails and retire from the prophecy business. goes to meet his Maker, we can expect that We might expect that the public failure of other apocalyptic prophets will take his For information regarding the bid packages for this project contact: prophecy, and the bitter experience of such place, and, like him, will refuse to learn Jade Greene at (615) 726-2611 or Email: [email protected] disappointment, would leave people no from the mistakes of the past. alternative but to admit error and come to Stephen O’Leary is associate professor in To RSVP for the upcoming Meet & Greet contact: terms with their lives without apocalyptic the Annenberg School for Communication Rhea Kinnard at (615) 941-8396 Email: [email protected] hope. But this is not what happened. The and Journalism at the University of Southern California. He is the author of “Arguing the Millerite movement survived the Great Refreshments will be provided! Apocalypse” (1994). 10 • May 25 - 31, 2011 EDUCATION The Richmond Voice Grants fund STEM training for teachers The Virginia Department of Education More than $1.3 million in grants were (VDOE) is awarding grants totaling more awarded to fund eight new projects. Three than $2.7 million to 17 partnerships between of the newly funded partnerships will school divisions, colleges and universities provide in-service training in the 2010 to increase content knowledge and sharpen science standards for elementary teachers. classroom skills of teachers in science, Combined, the new and continuing STEM technology, engineering and mathematics – partnerships will provide professional subject areas known collectively as STEM. development for 1,064 teachers. “Teacher content knowledge is a critical “Strengthening STEM instruction and component of effective instruction,” said successfully implementing the rigorous Superintendent of Public Instruction Patricia new science and mathematics Standards I. Wright. “Knowledgeable and confident of Learning are priorities of Governor Bob teachers are essential to prepare students for McDonnell and the Board of Education,” postsecondary studies and STEM-related said Wright. “These Mathematics and careers.” Science Partnership grants will provide In announcing the Mathematics and in-service training for more than 1,000 Science Partnership grant competition last teachers across Virginia to help our public October, VDOE requested proposals to schools achieve these objectives.” create new K12-post-secondary partnerships Mathematics and Science Partnership to provide in-service training for teachers grants are authorized by Title II, Part B of of STEM courses or to create professional the Elementary and Secondary Education development programs tied to the 2010 Act (also known as No Child Left Behind). Science Standards of Learning (SOL). The grant program is designed to improve School divisions are expected to begin instruction by encouraging partnerships introducing new and revised content from between institutions of higher education and the 2010 science standards this fall. By school divisions to provide opportunities 2012-2013, all SOL science tests will be for mathematics and science teachers to based exclusively on the content of the increase subject-matter knowledge and revised standards. improve classroom skills. RTC students advance to national tech event

For the third straight year, Courtney Bagby and Nicole Smith, students at the Richmond Technical Center, have advanced to the Technology Student Association (TSA) national competition scheduled for June 21 through 25 in Dallas, Texas. Bagby and Smith, both students at Richmond Community High School, placed second in the structural engineering competition at this year’s Virginia TSA Conference held recently in Fairfax. The duo constructed a 20-foot tower made from basswood to demonstrate their knowledge of design and construction. Bagby and Smith had placed first in the state competition the previous two years. Nuzelle Watson, an RTC instructor and TSA sponsor, will also attend the national conference. Motorcycle club to hold benefit ride On June 4, the Tuskegee Airmen Motorcycle clubs, independent riders, Motorcycle Club of Richmond will sponsor social clubs, business, and individuals the 1st Annual Ride for The Boys & Girls are invited to come out and help support Clubs of Metro Richmond. The money this cause by being sponsors or through raised will benefit The Boys & Girls Clubs donations. Summer Learning Program by: The ride will begin at Henderson Middle (1) Increasing funding for high-quality School, through several neighborhoods summer learning programs for young in the city such as Hillside Court, Gilpin people who currently lack choices and Court, Whitcomb Court, Mosby Court, opportunites; Fairfeild Coourt, and Creighton Court before (2) Allowing youth to participate in ending at the American Legion Battlefeild summer programs through scholarship Post 144 in Sandston. A brief ceremony and assistance; and a cookout will follow the ride. (3) Surrounding youth with positive role For details about the ride, sponsorship, models and programs that focus on fun, and donations contact: Ricky Williams: safe, rich environments to develop the 804-357-5521; Joseph Scott: 804- 914- skills needed to achieve a great future. 2369; or Michael Baker: 804-822-1882. The Richmond Voice May 25 -31, 2011 • 11 Local HBCU is among 2011 “Retool Your School” winners Richmond-based Virginia Union Sharp, commissioner, South Western University (VUU) is among the winners Athletic Conference; Oscar Joyner, of the 2011 “Retool Your School” Campus president, Reach Media; and Monica Improvement Grant Program, an initiative McCluney, director, Corporate Alliances, designed to reinvigorate Historically United Negro College Fund. Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs). “I was most impressed with the Through the program, 11 schools will institutions who really understood that they receive $150,000 in grants for lasting should be focusing on green initiatives. renovations. The grand prize winner is I think that is always a critical aspect for Bethune Cookman University, located in Major Project campuses in terms of conserving dollars, Daytona Beach, FL, which will receive Improve/upgrade the handicap which are much needed across all HBCUs,” $50,000 to install automated access doors accessibility of campus buildings and said Monica McCluney, director, Corporate and a wheelchair ramp in its student center grounds to assist physically disabled Alliances, United Negro College Fund. to accommodate students, faculty and staff students/visitors. “There is a valid interest from HBCUs members with disabilities Additionally, Trish Mueller, chief marketing officer of around green initiatives. So, the more the following 10 schools will each receive Minor Project The Home Depot, says schools and the opportunities we can give them to come a $10,000 grant for enduring on-campus Improve and beautify outdoor community joined together to ensure that together and leverage opportunities such improvements: VUU; Knoxville College recreational area with enhanced lighting, their favorite HBCU received consideration as the ‘Retool Your School’ experience in (Knoxville); North Carolina A&T State seating, walk paths, and landscaping. for grants for lasting campus improvements helping them to save resources through University (Greensboro); Morris Brown green initiatives, the better.” College (Atlanta); Howard University president, National Association for Equal “Retool Your School” winning projects (Washington, DC); North Carolina Show” to provide some examples of the Opportunity In Higher Education; Duer will begin in the fall. Central University (Durham); Tuskegee eco-friendly projects that were competing University (Tuskegee); Mississippi Valley for grants. Receiving more than seven times State University (Itta Bena); Southwestern the number of votes as last year’s program, Christian College (Terrell, Tx.); Florida over two million online votes were cast Agricultural and Mechanical University before the close of this year’s competition. (Tallahassee). With a growing sustainability movement “The Retool Your School program met currently brewing on HBCU campuses, and even exceeded our expectation this year many are actively seeking more eco- as schools and the community truly joined friendly options to limit greenhouse gas together to ensure that their favorite HBCU emissions on campus and utilize renewable received consideration for grants for lasting energy sources whenever possible. campus improvements. The Home Depot The “Retool Your School” Campus is elated to provide these 11 deserving Improvement Grant Program supports this institutions with funds to enhance campus growing crusade for environmental change life now and for generations to come,” said by providing special consideration to eco- Trish Mueller, chief marketing officer, The friendly, sustainable projects. With the goal Home Depot. of issuing grants for projects that have a Here is a Support for this year’s “Retool Your lasting impact, this year’s winning projects School” program began at the grassroots include establishing the only public park in reason why level as many schools utilized Facebook, a 10-mile radius, transforming a residence Twitter, school websites, newsletters, hall, creating safe and well lit outdoor local media appeals and their Alumni areas, installing a sustainable rain garden, you should associations to spread the word. Also, some upgrading campus grounds and communal heavy hitting media influencers including areas, decreasing the amount of waste on nationally syndicated radio personalities campus by supplying students with reusable recycling bags and encouraging recycling on *adopt. Steve Harvey and Tom Joyner took to the airwaves to help make the public aware campus, installing sustainable ecofriendly of this dynamic initiative. On April 14, landscaping to help reduce pollution and Marvin Ellison, Home Depot’s executive providing automated irrigation systems for *Help reduce the number of children in the VA foster care system. vice president, U.S. stores, appeared live campus greenery. on ”The Steve Harvey Morning Show” as The 2011 “Retool Your School” winners were chosen by a combination of public, Cathy M. Wadlington he provided an impassioned call to action Retreat Coordinator Virginia One Church, One Child for the community to get involved and vote. online voting and careful review by a distinguished panel of judges, which 1214 West Graham Road, Suite 2 Also, on April 18, Melissa Brown, Home 1214 West Graham Road Richmond, Virginia 23220 Richmond, Virginia 23220 included: Jamie Foster Brown, publisher, (804) 329-3420 Depot’s multicultural marketing manager, Toll Free (800) 440-5090 (804) 329-3420 Sister 2 Sister Magazine; Lezli Baskerville, Claim our own - Adopt an Fax (804)329-3906 appeared on “The Tom Joyner Morning African American Child [email protected] 12 • May 25 - 31, 2011 ENTERTAINMENT The Richmond Voice “Sacred Love Songs 2” features Hoops star becomes first woman music inspired by new movie to represent Jordan brand Grammy Award winner T.D. Jakes’ record intended. Consider Song of Solomon label Dexterity Sounds will release “Sacred in which the Bible poignantly displays Love Songs 2,” the second installment of romance from a biblical perspective. It the Sacred Love Songs series, on May 31. is the common language of romance that The complication album was inspired by links film and music together, which is the film “Jumping the Broom,” which is why the film Jumping the Broom helped now the number one comedy in the nation to inspire a new album,” said T.D. Jakes, after recently opening in theaters. executive producer of the album and The album features romantic love songs founder and senior pastor of The Potter’s that pair talented gospel, R&B and pop House church in Dallas. music artists who perform new songs and Originally released by Kirk Franklin in classic hits. Artists include: T.D. Jakes, 1997, the lead single is re-mastered and sung Joe, Karen Clark Sheard, Kirk Whalum, by Anaysha Figueroa and also features T.D. El DeBarge, Bishop Paul Morton, Fred Jakes. The artist Joe reached #2 on Urban Hammond, Ledisi, Micah Stampley, Adult Contemporary radio’s Most Added Crystal Aikin, Terry Thomas and Anaysha Track for the single “Closer,” featured on Figueroa. The album is the first joint the album. El DeBarge lends his single venture between Universal Christian Music “How Could You Love Me” from his solo Group, T.D. Jakes and Dexterity Sounds. project “Second Chance.” Fred Hammond “Sacred Love Songs 2” features 12 songs sings “My Lady & Myself,” while Micah plus spoken words from T.D. Jakes that Stampley covers Brian McKnight’s “Back encourage couples to love each other as At One.” BET’s Sunday Best first season instructed by the Bible. winner Crystal Aikin also contributes her new “The intent behind ‘Sacred Love Songs track “Just Take My Heart” to the project. 2’ is to draw hearts back to love as God Maya Moore Thought basketball superstar Maya Moore National Player of the Year, considered one AskAsk GwendolynGwendolyn BainesBaines had already broken every record? Think again. of the top players in women’s basketball, Last week, the University of Connecticut her name is discussed among the greatest My grandson is being pulled alumni inked a historic endorsement deal college basketball players of all time, from the graduation line! with Nike imprint, Jordan Brand, becoming period. the first female basketball signee on the For Moore, representing the Jordan Dear Gwendolyn: brand’s roster. The 22-year-old forward brand is an honor that has been a long time We as adults need to recall our younger joins Derek Jeter, Dwyane Wade, Carmelo coming. Speaking on her new role. years. This is the problem: My grandson Anthony, Chris Paul and Andre Johnson as “As a student of the game, it is a dream wrote an article for the senior paper. The the newest athlete signed with the brand. come true to align myself with a brand that article was turned down. My grandson In a press release from the company has a rich history in sports,” said Moore. says that the editor of the senior class announcing the deal, Nike and the Jordan “Like most kids, I grew up idolizing Michael paper does not like him. I think there was family expressed their excitement naming Jordan and continue to work relentlessly to a rival at one time over a girl. Moore as their newest brand ambassador. reach his iconic status on the court. Well, whatever! That should not have “I am thrilled to welcome Maya Moore “I’m truly motivated to take my career to Dear Susan: had any bearing on my grandson – but it into the Jordan Brand,” said Michael the next level as a member of Team Jordan.” The organizations are somewhere being did. Just to prove his article was going to Jordan, the brands namesake. “Not only has Moore was the dominant force in African Americans. This is an example of be viewed, my grandson printed it and had Maya proven to be a prolific winner on the women’s college basketball for four years, Blacks (“Oops”) African Americans not it distributed throughout the campus and court, but her hunger and determination winning two titles, making four Final Four standing by their own. However, Susan, throughout the city. Someone alerted the to make an impact off the court makes appearances and becoming the first four- if mothers and grandmothers would do school and he was notified that he would her a valuable addition to the Jordan time first team All-American in the history better parenting, our children would not be marching with his class. He has family. We look forward to working with of the sport. She also scored more than not be performing criminal acts – and worked so hard and is the third grandchild Maya as she carries her success to the 3,000 points in her career with the Huskies. would abide by orders. Your grandson to complete a college education. next level.” Moore’s critics said that while her is no exception. As his grandmother, you Gwendolyn, the college is a private This year’s WNBA number one draft pick, basketball career has been impressive so should have been constantly lecturing to Black college. If he was in a White Moore will be starting next season with far, she has yet to accomplish anything at him about what to do and what not to do. college, Black organizations would be the Minnesota Lynx. But the 6’0” is best the professional level. People have to follow rules. Race --- has marching around the campus claiming known for her days in the UConn Women Sam Westmoreland, a sports columnist nothing to do with it. that my grandson was being mistreated hoops program. Leading the team to a said he could “think of five current and because he is Black. Where are the Black record breaking 90-game winning streak, former athletes who are more deserving organizations that are needed to solve this back-to-back championship titles in 2009 of the Jordan deal than Moore” including Got a problem? E-mail Gwendolyn problem? and 2010, Moore became a Huskies’ legend Serena Williams, Candace Parker, Sheryl Baines at: [email protected] Susan and national face. Not only is the two-time Swoopes and Mia Hamm. The Richmond Voice May 25 - 31, 2011 • 13 Black women’s “mad and angry” stereotypes persist By Tonya Pendelton also become tragic. A work-related When NeNe Leakes and Star Jones had confrontation between three Black women their much-anticipated confrontation on in Philadelphia last year left two women “Celebrity Apprentice,” there was one dead, shot to death by their co-worker. A person who came out on top - and depending group of Black women fighting at a Florida on where you stand, it could have been gas station went viral, as did a group of both Leakes or it could have been Jones. For the Black and white women in a conflagration sisters out there who are always locked and outside of the All-Star game in L.A. earlier loaded and ready to confront any level of this year. disrespect, Leakes’ in-your-face approach was the one they could relate to. For others, Analysis Jones’ backing away from Leakes and holding her ground from a distance might not be as sexy, but it meant that potentially Are Black women just angry? violent confrontation was avoided. Well, it’s a longer debate than we have Jones later said on “The Ellen DeGeneres the space for here, and it’s unfair to view Show” that, as a former prosecutor with an entire group as a monolithic entity. several high-ranking police contacts, she’d But there are certainly some of us whose have been happy to call the law on the first response is anger at the slightest “Real Housewives of Atlanta” star. Some transgression, even unintentional ones. people think that’s smart. Some people My take on it is this: When confronted by think that’s weak. Leakes, Jones did a smart thing. Although Reality stars, NeNe Leakes (left) and Star Jones, have been portrayed as mad and angry Many thought Jones had the better she kept talking, she backed up and put approach. Why? Because although she distance between them as Leakes advanced belts or a boyfriend or husband who’ll take begin family counseling or regular family and Leakes are both TV stars that carry on her physically. That’s probably a good up the fight for them. meetings so that everyone can air out their an expectation of extreme behavior, these idea in most petty confrontations. If there Anger is something we all deal with, differences. And if everyone that you meet kind of confrontations go on between Black is not an immediate threat, and someone and there are times when people do their seems to be angry, you may want to consider women every day in real life. is getting close to you or putting a finger damndest to provoke it. In the Black how you come off because often, other On Palm Sunday, I found myself in a in your face, getting away from them may community, women often develop tough people are just picking up on your energy. verbal altercation with another Black defuse your reaction. skins to protect themselves from slights There is a time and place to be angry - woman on a supermarket checkout line that Some of us can’t fathom that being a both perceived and real. On the job, it can and a way to express it that doesn’t implode could have easily gone physical, especially reasonable response to a disagreement, but truly be difficult to handle, and in our jobs, relationships and lives. Before you lash when she started calling me a b**** after the key is to ask yourself this: Is it worth it? personal lives, there is often a world of hurt out, think both about what you have to lose asserting that I bumped her. By its very nature, a physical confrontation behind the rage. But it’s essential for our and what you have to gain. Take a minute in If I did made any incidental contact with is going to be a temporary solution. If you’re own well-being to make decisions that put the midst of the situation to slow down and her, it was minimal. Most often, these kind at work, can you afford to lose your job? If us into a better life environment. think. Angry people are often struggling in of confrontations over extremely petty you’re in the street, can you afford to lose If you’re constantly belittled at your job other areas of their lives, and it’s that that issues that could be ignored or resolved your liberty - or your life? Yes, you may be but can’t quit, make a decision to find a needs to be handled - not the person in the peacefully are simply unnecessary. While angry, but you have no idea what another new one or transfer departments. If it’s checkout line. If you can learn to control some conflicts may just result in someone woman has or is going through, nor do you your man, maybe it’s time to consider a new your anger, it will have positive benefits for ending up with a bruised ego, they can know if they’re armed, have multiple Black one. If it’s your children, you may want to you in the long run. - BAW +D\ZRRG¶V +DLU,PDJHV ,VVHHNLQJH[SHULHQFHGFRVPHWRORJLVW &RQWDFW+D\ZRRGDW :*UDFH6WUHHW )UHVK1HZ6W\OHVDQG+LJKHVW4XDOLW\LQ&XWLFOH+DLU 14 • May 25 - 31, 2011 HEALTH NOTES The Richmond Voice Report highlights use of drugs sold as bath salts A new Centers for Disease Control injected “bath salts” and ended up visiting agencies, health care providers, poison Prevention (CDC) report summarizing an emergency department between Nov. 13, control centers, and law enforcement an investigation initiated last February on 2010 - March 31, 2011. agencies enabled rapid identification of the use of designer drugs sold as bath salts Although they are labeled as bath this emerging health problem. Curtailing shows that users experience a wide range products - or even as fertilizer or insect the problem required the execution of an of cardiovascular and neurological acute repellent - and include the warning “not for emergency public health order to remove toxicity signs. The most common signs human consumption,” word on the street the toxic “bath salts” from the marketplace. and symptoms were agitation, depression, and the Internet is that they can be used Lessons from the Michigan experience hypertension, tachycardia (abnormally rapid as “legal cocaine” or “legal speed.” Users could have relevance to other areas of heart beat), and delusions or hallucinations usually snort the powder and experience the U.S. experiencing similar problems, from those who had ingested, inhaled, or effects similar to cocaine and crystal meth. according to the CDC report. Overall, the investigation identified 35 patients in Michigan, including three Including the highlighted symptoms, many who visited the ED twice for “bath salt” RAA to offer free CPR classes users have been hospitalized because of abuse. The patients were aged 20-55 years. The Richmond Ambulance Authority, suicidal thoughts and physical effects such Nineteen were men, and 16 were women. Virginia Commonwealth University, as hypertension and rapid heartbeat. Some Twenty-four had a self-reported history of the Richmond Technical Center, Health users have tried to kill themselves and drug abuse, with 11 reporting polysubstance Educators, Inc. and Emergency Medical others have attacked friends or family. abuse and 12 intravenous drug abuse. Services, Inc. are offering free cardio Users describe the drugs as many times Sixteen had a history of mental illness pulmonary resuscitation (CPR) classes on more potent than Ritalin or cocaine. The (e.g., bipolar disorder, schizophrenia, or Tuesday, June 7. The classes will be held at substances most often are packaged as bath depression) in their medical records, and the Richmond Technical Center and all who salts under brand names such as Ivory Wave, six had suicidal thoughts or suspected are interested in learning this lifesaving Ivory Snow, Ocean, Charge Plus, White attempts that might have been related to technique are encouraged to attend. Lightning, Scarface, Hurricane Charlie, “bath salts” abuse. “With just one hour of CPR instruction, Red Dove, Cloud 9, White Dove and many Clinical findings were consistent with you can learn to help save a life. It’s that others. They are far more expensive than intoxication with stimulants. Of the simple,” said Chip Decker, chief executive Chip Decker legitimate bath products, selling for $20 to 35 patients, 32 had neurologic, 27 had officer of the Richmond Ambulance $170 per gram. cardiovascular, and 17 had psychological Authority. “CPR is quick and easy to caused by an abnormal heart rhythm called In December 2010, the Drug Enforcement symptoms. Twenty-two of the patients learn and statistics show that a fast and ventricular fibrillation (VF). Cardiac arrest Administration (DEA) listed a chemical had injected the drug, nine had snorted effective bystander response can mean the can also occur after the onset of a heart found in many of the bath salts, it, and four had ingested it. For five difference between life and death. This is attack or as a result of electrocution or near methylenedioxypyrovalerone (MPDV), as patients, including the patient who died, an important skill to have. You never know drowning. a drug of concern. According to the DEA, the exposure route was unknown, and five when you might need it.” American Heart Association statistics MPDV stimulates the central nervous system patients had more than one exposure route. Anyone in the Richmond area is invited show that about 80 percent of all out-of- and causing most of the common symptoms. No relationship was found between the to attend these free, one-hour CPR classes hospital cardiac arrests occur in private Across the country, poison control centers exposure route and severity of symptoms. that will be held on Tuesday, June 7, at the residential settings, so being trained to received more than 232 calls about bath Of the 17 patients with known drug test Richmond Technical Center located at 2020 perform CPR can mean the difference salts abuse in 2010. results, 16 tested positive for other drugs Westwood Avenue. Morning classes begin between life and death for a spouse, child or Skyrocketing overdoses of these products (e.g., marijuana, opiates, benzodiazepines, on the hour at 9 a.m., 10 a.m. and 11 a.m. The parent. The data also shows that effective in Louisiana led to the governor enacting an cocaine, or amphetamines). Toxicology afternoon classes are at 1 p.m., 2 p.m., 3 p.m. bystander CPR, provided immediately after emergency ban on Jan. 6, 2011, of MPDV results for the person who died revealed a and 4 p.m. Participants just need to show up. cardiac arrest, can double a victim’s chance and other chemicals found in the bath salts. high level of marijuana and prescription No advance registration is required. of survival because it helps maintain In February 2011, and in response to drugs. Autopsy results revealed toxicity to “As always with these classes, our goal is vital blood flow to the heart and brain multiple news reports, the Michigan be the primary factor contributing to death. to provide quality CPR training to as many and increases the amount of time that an Department of Community Health The manner of death was ruled accidental, people in the Richmond area as possible,” electric shock from a defibrillator can be (MDCH) contacted the Children’s Hospital consistent with an attempt to get high. said Wayne Harbour, chief clinical officer effective. Brain death starts to occur four of Michigan Poison Control Center (PCC) Of the 17 hospitalized, nine were admitted of the Richmond Ambulance Authority. to six minutes after someone experiences regarding reports of illness in the state to the intensive care unit (ICU), five were “When performed properly, bystander CPR cardiac arrest if no CPR and defibrillation caused by the fake bath salts. admitted to a general floor, and three were can keep the cardiac arrest victim’s blood occurs during that time. Among 35 users who sought emergency admitted directly to a psychiatric unit. pumping long enough for EMS to arrive and “What’s an hour of your time when what medical help in Michigan localities, 17 Four persons who were first hospitalized defibrillate, greatly increasing the patient’s you learn in one of these classes could help were hospitalized, 15 were treated and in the ICU or a general floor later were chances of survival. Last year we trained you save a life? asked Harbour. released from the ER, two left the ER transferred to a psychiatric unit. Treatment 307 people in one day, and we are hoping against medical advice and one was dead generally included a benzodiazepine such as for an even bigger turnout this year.” For more information about these free CPR upon arrival at a hospital. lorazepam to control signs of toxicity; low Sudden cardiac arrest is most often classes in Richmond, call 804-254-1128. The coordinated efforts of public health or moderate doses usually were sufficient. The Richmond Voice May 25 - 31, 2011 • 15

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DOUBLE COUPONS 50 details Wednesday 5/25 Richmond Voice 1117 16 • May 25 - 31, 2011 ACTIVITIES & MEETINGS The Richmond Voice May 25-26 June 1 Lancer Band 60th Annual Concert Mount Tabor Anniversary Celebrations The Manchester High School Lancer Band will present its 60th Annual Concert on Mount Tabor Baptist Church, 2011 Fairmount Avenue, Richmond, will celebrate the Wednesday, May 25 at 7 p.m. in the auditorium of Manchester High School, 12601 Bailey 139th church anniversary and the 17th pastoral anniversary by holding a series of events, Bridge Road, Midlothian. including pre-anniversary revivals, as well as nightly praise and worship at 6:50 p.m.; The Manchester High School Lancer Band is one of the oldest band programs in Virginia worship at 7 p.m. and is a perennial award winner and state and national competitions and festivals. Last Wednesday, June 1 year the Lancer Band was honored to represent high school bands all across Virginia in Dr. Robert Whitehead, pastor of New Zion Baptist Church, Williamsburg Gov. Bob McDonnell’s inaugural parade. Thursday, June 2 The Lancer Band will feature contemporary and traditional musical selections as well Reverend Kim A. Ridley, pastor of The Light Community Church as a variety of guest soloists. Friday, June 3 Tickets are available at the door and are free for children under 11. For more information, Reverend Angelo V. Chatmon, pastor of Pilgrim Journey Baptist Church call 804-739-6275. Saturday, June 4 – 10 a.m. – 2 p.m. Community Day workshops- Two financial workshops conducted by Met Life and New VO Chapter Meeting York Life and an Alzheimer’s workshop; healthy eating tips; fellowship; food and fun. Virginia Organizing will have a meeting to listen and discuss issues that are important For the kids- a bouncy; pony rides; Richmond fire truck and Richmond police officers on to Richmond area residents on May 26, 5:30-7 p.m. at 5008 Monument Avenue, Suite A. horseback The agenda will include an overview of Virginia Organizing’s grassroots work throughout Sunday, June 5 – 8 a.m. and 11 a.m. worship the state, hear updates on active local and state issue campaigns, and together the group Dr. Nathaniel D. West, assistant professor of Christian Education will explore building a local issue campaign. Samuel DeWitt Proctor School of Theology, Virginia Union University Come out and meet real people who want to work for real change in their communities. Bring a neighbor with you to this meeting. For more information, call 804-683-1227. Grants for Nonprofits The Bank of America Charitable Foundation has issued a call for applications for Fair Pay Event Richmond nonprofits and community leaders to apply for grant funding through the bank’s The Richmond Local Office of the U.S. Equal Employment Opportunity Commission grassroots philanthropic program, the Neighborhood Excellence Initiative. In 2011, the (“EEOC”) will host an event to discuss strategies for achieving equal pay for women to bank will provide more than $400,000 through this program to revitalize the Richmond commemorate Equal Pay Day on May 26 at the Greater Richmond Convention Center, 403 economy and support nonprofits tackling critical social issues in the community. N. 3rd Street, Richmond, from 8:30 am to noon. The event is free and open to the public. Now through June 1, Richmond area nonprofits and individual community leaders are The event will address the fact that almost 50 years after passage of the Equal Pay Act of urged to apply. Award recipients are chosen by local selection committees comprised 1963, the wage gap between men and women still persists. Women are paid an average of of private, public and nonprofit sector leaders and chaired by local Bank of America only 77 cents for every dollar earned by men. The gap is even greater for women of color executives in 45 participating communities. Applications and more information are and women with disabilities. This wage gap has a cumulative effect on working women available at www.bankofamerica.com/neighborhoodexcellence. and their families. The event will also celebrate the Lilly Ledbetter Fair Pay Act of 2009 which seeks to address and remedy pay discrimination based on gender. June 6-7 Henrico Summer Reading June 6 – Aug. 31, All libraries May 28 Read books and win prizes! Celebrate summer by reading books or attending summer programs at the library. Get a prize just for signing up. Complete your reading goal and Providence Park Church Anniversary Celebration become eligible to win an iPad, as well as other cool prizes. Sponsored by the Friends of The Providence Park Baptist Church, 468 East Ladies Mile Road, will celebrate its 135th the Library. anniversary with a banquet on Saturday, May 28, 4 p.m. at Virginia Union University Henderson Center. Sunday anniversary worship service will be on Sunday, May 29, 11 a.m. Pizza and Pages For more information, call 804-329-1963. Monday, June 6, 6 p.m., Twin Hickory Area Library Teens, talk about what you are reading, swap used books and eat pizza! Bring your new or gently used fiction books to trade. Manga is welcome too. Exchanges will be one-for- May 30 one. Ages 11 to 18. For more information call 804-290-9200, x5. Memorial Day Program at Carillon The City of Richmond will hold its annual Memorial Day Program at 4 p.m. on Monday, Book Discussion Book May 30 at the Carillon in Byrd Park, 1300 Blanton Avenue. Tuesday, June 7, 7 p.m., Glen Allen Branch Library This event is free to the public and open to all who wish to honor those who have A discussion of the book Maisie Dobbs, by Jacqueline Winspear. Newcomers are always served Virginia and the nation. The program will include a selection of patriotic music, welcome. presentation of a memorial wreath, and a concert on the Carillon bells by city Carillonneur Larry Robinson. Retired veteran Dr. Dean Decker of the Richmond Memorial Rifle Squad will be the Send free community events at least two weeks prior to the featured guest speaker and will present a program on the history of Memorial Day. event to: [email protected]. The 240-foot Carillon was built as a permanent memorial to the heroic efforts of Virginia’s World War I servicemen and servicewomen following the enactment of a World We reserve the right to edit all submissions for space, clarity, War Memorial Commission by the Virginia General Assembly in 1928. style and grammar. The Richmond Voice NATIONAL May 25 - 31, 2011 • 17 Consumer financial protection bureau under assault, critics say By Charlene Crowell is to protect consumers from the types past and could have averted the mortgage dollars bailed out taxpayer dollars bailed NNPA - Less than a year ago, President of abusive, unfair lending practices that crisis; out these lenders, doesn’t the public deserve Barack Obama signed into law the bipartisan sparked the current financial crisis. • Remove the agency’s independent protection too? Dodd-Frank Wall Street Reform and Now, as the new agency prepares to begin funding potentially giving big bank It was not that long ago that the financial Consumer Protection Act. The Consumer operating this July, some on Capitol Hill are lobbyists the ability to hamstring the services industry dedicated billions of Financial Protection Bureau (CFPB), a working to undermine it. The House and CFPB through the annual Congressional dollars for efforts to deny the nation Senate are considering a variety of bills that appropriations process; financial reform – more than any other Analysis together would fundamentally weaken the • Replace the single, accountable director industry lobbying expenditures during integrity and independence of the CFPB. as the head of the agency with a weaker the past decade. That translates into $1.4 These bills would do the following: five-person commission - where no one million a day and includes 1,726 registered cornerstone of this historic law, was created • Allow bank regulators the ability to veto individual would be responsible for the federal lobbyists paid to woo 100 U.S. to streamline financial consumer protection the legislation, if banks complain about agency’s decisions; and senators and 455 members of Congress, regulations and prevent financial crises like cutting into fees and other revenue sources. • Delay implementation of the Bureau according to the Center for Responsive the Great Recession from recurring. CFPB These are the same offices that failed to when the nation has waited long enough Politics. is a single new agency whose sole purpose provide the consumer protections in the already. At best, the proposed bills are premature, In response, the Center for Responsible as the agency will not even come into Lending (CRL) and other consumer existence until July 2011. At worst, they Emerging leaders to shape civil rights agenda advocates and allies are urging Congress to are a brazen attempt to preserve privilege reject the new proposals. Recently, more and profits for large lenders at the expense The NAACP has issued a call for all than 65 national and state organizations of everyday citizens. emerging leaders to join Association together advised Congress that the bills, For communities of color, the stakes Chairman Roslyn M. Brock in Hollywood, “ignore the lessons that have been learned are high in ensuring that reforms remain Fla. during Memorial Day weekend. The seventh annual Leadership 500 Summit about the regulatory failures that triggered strong and meaningful. The financial crisis will encourage discussions on a revitalized a housing and economic crisis and has widened the racial wealth gap and civic agenda that lays groundwork for caused extraordinary pain for millions of ongoing foreclosures are hitting minority young professionals in the modern-day Americans.” communities the hardest. According to civil rights movement. It would be wise for Capitol Hill to heed CRL’s research, more than $350 billion in “In 2011, one year away from another these pro-consumer voices, according to wealth has been lost to African American landmark election, the NAACP is issuing a CRL. Has Congress so soon forgotten and Latino communities. new “front line” call for all young people the reasons CFPB was created? It was the Consumer protection and bank safety to come and discuss the future of the civil absence of consumer protections that led should go hand in hand. Restoring this rights movement,” said Brock. “This year’s to millions of foreclosures and a public balanced approach assures us a more safe Leadership 500 Summit is particularly bailout of the institutions that operated and sound financial system, and with it a important as political campaign season with ill-advised practices and only short- more sustainable economy. begins; the baton of leadership is passing to the next generation of civil and human term profit perspectives. After taxpayer It’s time to allow the CFPB to do its job. rights activists. The NAACP will lead a forum with coalition partners in civil and Roslyn Brock human rights, political, social, economic, fraternal and faith-based organizations to Williams, and Pulitzer Prize-winning explore collaborative initiatives in order author Isabel Wilkerson will also serve as to reach the NAACP goal of “Affirming Summit keynote speakers. Additionally, America’s Promise.” national presidents of the nine National Pan This year’s Summit, themed “Leadership Hellenic Council organizations will attend the by Design: Ensuring our Legacy”, will allow event. Recording artists Raheem DeVaughn, participants to attend two-and-a -half days of Earnest Pugh, Marcus Johnson and Chelsey workshops, interactive panel discussions and Green will provide entertainment. general sessions led by non-profit, private “We are seeing an unprecedented and sector and community innovators. coordinated attempt to roll back the clock The event will also feature prominent on civil rights protections in this country,” leaders helming workshops and helping said NAACP President and CEO Benjamin participants craft a balanced agenda for Todd Jealous, 38, who in 2008 became the young professionals in the coming year. youngest person to lead the nation’s oldest April Woodard of BET will host “2012: civil rights organization. “Our generation What’s the Next Step?” a town hall must continue to step up, and help lead the meeting to discuss the role of Millennials nation in resisting these attacks to regain in the upcoming election cycle. Discussion the inclusive, forward-looking spirit of contributors will include former U.S. 2008. The NAACP Leadership 500 Summit Representative Kendrick Meek, Rev. Leah empowers young leaders nationwide to do Daughtry and journalist Charles Ellison. just that: step up and win battles for justice ESPN’s Keith Clinkscales, PR guru Terrie and equality for all.” 18 • May 25 - 31, 2011 The Richmond Voice Revolution rendered useless by Black Panther Party failure C. Alexander Haywood integration [is not] progress. We wanted interview in the “What We Want” DVD. for Hilliard’s permanent removal. NNPA - “So the concept is this basically: our communities to be self-sufficient, self- “[Newton’s way was] you do what I say or As a result, Cleaver was expelled from The whole Black nation has to be put aware and armed. Not walking hand and you’re going to get your head knocked in. the Panther central committee but went on together as a Black army. And we gon’ walk hand with the enemy.” That was the split.” to lead a splinter group called the Black on this nation. We gon’ walk on the racist Freeman added that Huey Newton, A number of Panther leaders, including Liberation Army, which had previously power structure. And we gone say to the the Panther’s founding member, went Newton and chief of staff David Hilliard, existed as an underground paramilitary government: “Stick em’ up motherf****r, public with his decision to disband every turned their focus to community service as wing of the Party. Both factions eventually this is a holdup. We’ve come for what’s segment of the party, without informing his well as self-defense, while former minister deteriorated due to rising legal costs and ours”—an excerpt from the 1995 DVD estranged brethren. of information for the Panthers, (Leroy) perpetual infighting with the individual “What We Want, What We Believe: the “He didn’t tell us nothing [Newton],” Eldridge Cleaver, and others, embraced a groups. The demise was aided by steady Black Panther Party Library.” griped Roland Freeman, former leader of more confrontational strategy. doses of calculated interference by the FBI It’s been more than three decades since the Panther’s Los Angeles Chapter. “From Cleaver’s faction proceeded to buck the and other government agencies. the collapse of the Black Panther Party what I knew, we were supposed to establish a powers that be—namely police, or “pigs” Throughout 1969, the Black Panthers (for Self Defense), as it was originally new extension underground in Dallas, Texas, and they were often tagged by this splinter were the primary target of the FBI’s titled. After a historic campaign of militant because things were getting too heated on Panther group—with streaks of arbitrary Counter Intelligence Program COINTELPRO, demonstration and persisting community the streets. But, that never happened.” violence and engaged indiscriminate battles designed to neutralize, and ultimately terminate, activism, the grassroots alliance that was, Newton’s knee-jerk reaction to the with rival organizations. the more prominent Black Nationalist as FBI Director J. Edgar Hoover described, government’s ever-looming presence, Cleaver’s rash approach to Black justice organizations. The secondary aim was to “the greatest threat to the internal security prompted other key members of the culminated with the death of Panther prevent the unification of these groups, while of the country,” finally crumbled under the panthers to break ranks, in an attempt to Bobby Hutton, or “Lil Bobby,” the party’s also weakening the power of their leaders, relentless pressure of external opposition in establish their own power base. treasurer, who was gunned down during which, in turn, would reduce their support and 1970. “When the split came, all the comrades a haphazard ambush attempt on the growth, according to the “What We Want” DVD. “Do you want to know why we aren’t [who] were revolutionary in their ideals Oakland Police by Cleaver’s fraction of Consequentially, many established still around like the NAACP and all those and admirations for the Black Panther the party in 1968. The strain between he Panther chapters across the U.S. collectively other Uncle Tom Negroes?” asked Roland Party were on one side; and the other side and Newton grew more severe when he experienced more than 233 government- Freeman, former leader of the Panther’s Los with Newton and Hilliard represented the publicly criticized his estranged comrade authorized sieges as well as raids by Angeles Chapter. “It’s because we didn’t dictatorial power,” former field marshal for adopting a “reformist” rather than numerous COINTERLPRO agents. As a want integration, we wanted progress, and of the Panthers Donald L. Cox said in an “revolutionary” agenda, and he also called result they were extensively weakened. The Richmond Voice May 25 - 31, 2011 • 19 20 • May 25 - 31, 2011 WORLD BRIEFS The Richmond Voice From Wire Reports Ivory Coast seeks human rights crimes probe Immigrants daughter to make Harvard debut Ivory Coast President Alassane Ouattara preparing to launch a formal investigation At 15, Saheela Ibraheem seems young has asked the International Criminal into alleged mass killings in Ivory Coast. to be graduating high school much less Court to investigate allegations of serious Several hundred people were reportedly entering college. But the young girl from human rights crimes committed during the massacred in Duekoue during the unrest Piscataway, NJ, is doing more than that. country’s recent turmoil. during fighting between Gbagbo and Ouattara Her applications to 13 colleges were all This was because “Ivorian justice [was] supporters, with both sides blaming the other. accepted, including Harvard, which she has not at this time best placed to reveal the People in the church are living there in chosen to attend in the fall. most serious crimes,” he said. desperate conditions in tents during the rainy Saheela’s special talents were spotted An estimated 3,000 people were killed season and sometimes have to sleep standing up. early. After skipping sixth grade, she during the four-month election dispute. A number of mass graves have been transferred to the private Wardlaw- More than 25,000 people are still living in found in the area as well as in the main Hartridge School, skipped freshmen year the grounds of a church in the city of Duekoue. city, Abidjan. Local people allege that many and enrolled as a 10th grader. They say they fear for their safety because of the victims in Abidjan were killed by they belong to an ethnic group, the Guere, seen Gbagbo’s supporters. Ouattara’s government She wants to major in either neurobiology or neuroscience and plans to become a as loyal to former President Laurent Gbagbo, has accused Liberian mercenaries and pro- Saheela Ibraheem who was arrested last month after refusing to Gbagbo militias of killing more than 200 research scientist, who studies how the accept defeat in last year’s elections. people as they fled west after Ouattara’s brain works. As for her own brain, Saheela athlete, playing on the school’s softball team, After taking power, Ouattara promised forces captured Abidjan last month. insists she is nothing special. defender on the soccer team, and swimming that crimes committed by all sides during Human rights groups have accused She credits her parents with teaching her relays and 50-meter races for the swim team. the dispute would be investigated. Gbagbo fighters of using heavy weapons to love learning and work hard. Her father, She also sings alto in the school choir, ICC chief prosecutor Luis Moreno- against civilians and targeting members of Sarafa, an analyst and vice president at a plays trombone in the school band, and Ocampo has already said that his office was ethnic groups seen as supporting Ouattara. New York financial firm, would often study serves as president of the school’s investment with her at night and home school her in club, which teaches students about the stock subjects not taught at school. market by investing in virtual stocks. Rwanda genocide atrocities recalled in trial Beyond the books, she is a three-sport A courtroom in Kansas has become the unlikely stage for an eyewitness retelling of some of the horrific crimes that led South Africans grill Wal-Mart over jobs 800,000 to perish in the central African South African unions are throwing cold a quarter of all those able to work. nation of Rwanda. More than 50 witnesses water on Wal-Mart Stores $2.4 billion Meanwhile, a consortium of unions from five countries have been called to takeover plans of Massmart, a major including the South Africa Commercial, testify, including some who also killed and African retailer. Catering and Allied Workers Union, UNI tortured during the genocide. Union leaders say the move by Wal-Mart Global Union, and the United Food and In the case of U.S. vs. Lazare Kobagaya, could cause thousands of job losses and Commercial Workers International Union a federal court jury will be asked to decide worsen labor conditions. A new report, have been grilling Wal-Mart concerning if the former Rwandan teacher and mill commissioned by South Africa’s economic their perceived hostility to unions. owner, now a Topeka, Kansas resident and development and agricultural departments, “We have prepared a clear case that U.S. citizen, incited local Hutu farmers Lazare Kobagaya warned that if the new owner shifted just shows that Wal-Mart has a history around to turn on their Tutsi neighbors in the one percent of merchandise purchases from the world of suppressing union and turbulent days of April 1994. a second young woman to death after she domestic to foreign suppliers, it could lead worker rights,” said Christy Hoffman of Prosecutors say Kobagaya ordered asked him for protection. to the loss of some 4,000 jobs. UNI Global Union, the worldwide union the deaths of hundreds of people in the “Humanity was almost gone in me…” The Competition Tribunal of South federation representing 20 million workers. Nyakizu region of the southern Rwanda. Murindangabo said. Africa, an independent body, must approve Researcher Kenneth Jacobs of the Testifying for the prosecution, Valens The U.S. has no criminal jurisdiction or reject the plan. University of California Berkeley Center for Murindangabo told of an order to kill over crimes committed abroad, but it While sustained economic growth in Labor Research and Education, provided two Tutsi teens. “‘Wipe them out, kill can prosecute someone for lying on a Africa has produced for the first time a an affidavit noting that Wal-Mart has them,’” Murindangabo said Kobagaya had naturalization form, which specifically broad middle class, one that cuts across depressed retail wages in the communities commanded. The boys were hacked to death asks applicants if they have participated in the continent and is on par with the size where it operates. with a machete, Murindangabo said, while genocide. of the middle classes in the billion-person Former Wal-Mart VP, Andrew Bond, said Kobagaya watched from a few yards away. Prosecutors say Kobagaya lied on emerging markets of China and India, it was “premature” to predict what impact a Murindangabo, a former sixth-grade immigration and citizenship documents, there are still not enough jobs for those of merger would have on job creation in South teacher, further said he had slashed the legs checking a box saying he had not working age. Africa, but stressed that it was expected to of a Tutsi woman so another man could participated in genocide. If convicted, the According to one report, there are roughly be “positive.” bash in her head and how he had hacked 84 year old Kobagaya faces deportation. four million South Africans unemployed or The Richmond Voice May 25 - 31, 2011 • 21 The VOICE flashes back to: Miles Davis Miles Dewey Davis III was widely considered one of house as a wreck, and detailing his drug and sex addictions. the most influential musicians of the 20th century. He was, During his period of inactivity, Davis saw the fusion with his musical groups, at the forefront of several major music that he had spearheaded over the past decade enter developments in jazz music, including bebop, cool jazz, hard into the mainstream. When he emerged from retirement, bop, modal jazz, and jazz fusion. Many well-known musicians Davis’ musical descendants would be in the realm of New rose to prominence as members of Davis’ ensembles. Wave rock, and in particular the styling of Prince. His approach, owing largely to the Black performance By 1979, Davis overcame his cocaine addiction and tradition that focused on individual expression, emphatic regain his enthusiasm for music. He married Cicely Tyson interaction, and creative response to shifting contents, had in 1981 before later divorcing in 1988. a profound impact on generations of jazz musicians. On his comeback trail, Davis recorded his interpretations The first half of the 1950s was a period of great personal of Cyndi Lauper’s ballad “Time After Time” and “Human difficulty for Davis. He fell into a depression and developed Nature” from Michael Jackson. a heroin habit that he eventually kicked. Davis died in 1991 from the combined effects of a stroke, Despite all the personal turmoil, the 1950–54 period pneumonia and respiratory failure. He was 65 years old. was fruitful for Davis artistically. He made a number of He is buried in Woodlawn Cemetery in The Bronx. recordings and had several collaborations with other Davis will forever be noted as “one of the key figures in important musicians. He also definitively severed his the history of jazz”. He was inducted into the Rock and Roll stylistic ties with bebop. Hall of Fame in 2006. In 2008, his album “Kind of Blue,” Davis gained a reputation for being distant and having released in 1959, received its fourth platinum certification a quick temper. The “nocturnal” quality of Davis’ playing from the RIAA, signifying sales of four million copies. The and his somber reputation, along with his whispering voice, following year Rep. John Conyers of Michigan sponsored a earned him the lasting moniker of “prince of darkness”, measure in the U.S. House of Representatives to recognize adding a finishing touch of mystery to his public persona. and commemorate the album “Kind of Blue” on its 50th After a Newport Jazz Festival performance in 1975, anniversary. The measure also affirms jazz as a national Davis withdrew almost completely from the public eye for treasure and “encourages the United States government to six years. In his memoirs, Davis shares his wayward mental Miles Davis preserve and advance the art form of jazz music.” It passed, state during this period, describing himself as a hermit, his (May 26, 1926 – September 28, 1991) unanimously, with a vote of 409–0 on Dec. 15, 2009. 22 • May 25 - 31, 2011 CLASSIFIED & LEGAL ADS The Richmond Voice Wipe Out Credit Card Debt! 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