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Thursday, April 4 marks the 45th anniversary of the slaying of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.
Known as a drum major for peace, Dr. King stressed non-violence in his efforts to achieve civil and human rights not just for African Americans, but for everyone.
King was shot to death at age 39 while in Memphis, Tenn., where he went to assist sanitation workers who were engaged in a strike over better safety standards and a decent wage. As word of his passing quickly spread across the country and around the world, many were left speechless and in disbelief. Some reacted violently to the tragic news.
The Washington Informer invites its print edition readers and website visitors to submit your recollections of what happened on April 4, 1968, when you heard the news that Dr. King had died.
Please forward your comments along with your name and contact information to: This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it . Your comments will be shared on The Informer's website as part of a special tribute to Dr. King and selected comments will be published in print edition.
The Atlanta Journal-Constitution (AJC) reported Tuesday morning that the first three of 35 educators involved in the Atlanta Public Schools cheating scandal have turned themselves in to authorities.
According to the AJC report, Tameka Goodson, a school improvement specialist at Kennedy Middle School, was booked in to Fulton County Jail around 12:30 a.m. on a $200,000 bond, charged with racketeering and false statements and writings.
The indictment, handed up by a grand jury Friday, accuses Goodson of working with her school's principal and secretary to change students' wrong answers to right answers on standardized tests.
In addition, Donald Bullock, a testing coordinator at Usher-Collier Heights Elementary, arrived at the jail with his attorney just before 6 a.m. on Tuesday. He is accused of asking two teachers to participate in falsifying standardized test answer sheets and telling the Georgia Bureau of Investigation that he wasn't aware of teachers erasing test answers, according to the AJC' report. Bullock is charged with racketeering, false swearing and three counts of false statements or writings.
Benteen Elementary testing coordinator Theresia Copeland walked into the jail about an hour later, and is charged with racketeering, theft by taking and two counts of false statements or writings.
Copeland allegedly participated in collecting a bonus check based on falsified test results and misled investigators when she said she wasn't involved in cheating, according to the indictment.
Online jail records list the bonds for Bullock and Copeland at $1 million each.
(Source: Atlanta Journal –Constitution)
In comments filed recently with the Federal Communications Commission (FCC), members of the Minority Media and Telecommunications Council (MMTC) endorsed the 2003 Wright Petition that seeks FCC action to proscribe excessive payphone rates.
"The burden of staying connected with loved ones in prison falls heaviest on families with the least ability to pay, often forcing them to make harrowing choices between maintaining communication or putting food on the table," said MMTC President David Honig. "Unreasonably high prison phone rate practices reflect poorly on the moral stature of the telephone industry and diminish public confidence in the industry, especially among the underserved."
MMTC's members have also expressed gratitude to FCC Commissioner Mignon Clyburn, who led the Commission's initiative to take on the issue through rulemaking.
For the past 10 years, the fight for prison payphone justice has been waged by the Prison Phone Rates Collaborative and the Campaign for Prison Phone Justice, which MMTC inducted into its Hall of Fame at the January 2013 MMTC Broadband & Social Justice Summit.
On March 25, MMTC commended Verizon for its eloquent and thorough comments in support of the Wright Petition. Since Verizon no longer operates in the prison phone market, it has no economic interest in the FCC prison payphone proceeding.
Instead, Verizon official joined forces with social justice organizations on moral and ethical grounds, with the company's advocacy of prison payphone rate reform speaking highly of the corporation and its leadership.
Mayor Vincent C. Gray officially broke ground Monday on the site of the new headquarters for the District's Office of Cable Television (OCT).
Joined by OCT Director Eric E. Richardson and Department of General Services Director Brian J. Hanlon, Gray celebrated the beginning of construction at OCT's new facility in Ward 5, which will house the District's pubic, educational and governmental television station's TV-13, District of Columbia Network and District Knowledge Network.
"OCT plays a vital role in creating a more transparent government and highlighting the many outstanding accomplishments of our residents and community," said Gray. "Altogether, this project marks a significant step forward in increasing the number of District agencies housed in District-owned buildings. We are proud to find a permanent home for the agency that will allow for growth, expansion of services and reduced leasing expenses."
Located at 1899 9th St. in Northeast, the facility housed the former Black Entertainment Television headquarters under a long-term land lease. The District government purchased the property in 2010 to serve as OCT's new permanent home. The 30,525-square-foot facility will feature two television production studios' standard definition and high definition, editing suites, meeting space and administrative offices.
"Since becoming agency director in 2007, finding a permanent space has been one of my administration's main priorities," said Richards. "This is the agency's fifth relocation since it was established in 1986. We are excited to be here today preparing to move to a location that will allow OCT the opportunity to invest capital for its current and future technology needs and provide us with the flexibility that comes with managing our own space."
The project renovation will include replacing the roof, renovation of exterior and interior structures, build-out of the production studios and installation of the television broadcast equipment.
The project is slated for completion in fall 2013.
Gladys Noon Spellman 2013 Scholarship Recipients and Public Service Awardee Announced Upper Marlboro, MD – Prince George's County Executive Rushern L. Baker recently honored two outstanding female scholars and the inspiring work of a county employee at the 28th Annual Women's History Month Luncheon at Martin's Crosswinds in Greenbelt, Maryland.
The Women's History Month Luncheon and Awards Ceremony, which was held March 21, is a signature event of Baker's office that celebrates the achievements of women in the county.
Every year our Women's History Month Luncheon celebration brings renewed excitement and generates huge audience participation from Prince George's county women and the community-at-large," said Baker. "The services of these women are not just a benefit to County residents, but they are a model of professional achievement to the next generation of women leaders in Prince George's County."
Tiffani Kennedy and Yolande Bertile Pokam Tchuisseu were each awarded Gladys Noon Spellman Scholarships for $2,000. Tiffani attends Henry A. Wise, Jr. High School and has a 3.9 grade point average and Yolande attends High Point High School and has a 4.125 grade point average.
The scholarships were inspired and awarded in memory of Gladys Noon Spellman, who was a Prince George's County educator, County Council member and served in Congress for three terms beginning in 1974.
She was an extraordinary civic leader and tireless fighter for people with a strong interest in the fields of government, political and social sciences. The grand finale of the luncheon was the announcement that county employee, Patricia Sanders was the recipient of the prestigious Gladys Noon Spellman Public Service Award.
This award is presented to a female employee who is nominated by their peers for outstanding service and commitment to Prince George's County government.
Sanders, a former member of the Prince George's County Women's Commission, has resided in Prince George's County for 30 years and worked for the county government since 1986. She currently serves as the County Government's Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) compliance coordinator, providing technical assistance to ensure that the county operates its programs and services in compliance with ADA.
"I am humbled and at the same time excited to be the recipient of such a prestigious award," said Sanders. "To be in the midst of previous recipients is in an honor."
Performances June 5-9 at RFK Stadium
The UniverSoul Circus, known for its a unique and interactive shows filled with juggling, acrobats, dancing and many genres of music, returns to the District in the coming weeks to participate in the 151st anniversary of D.C.'s Emancipation Proclamation Day and to present several performances.
The Emancipation Proclamation celebration takes place April 16, and the circus performances will be held June 5-9 at RFK Stadium in Northeast. The Emancipation Proclamation event celebrates President Lincoln's signing of the Compensated Emancipation Act which freed 3,100 enslaved persons in the District of Columbia.
"We're especially glad to have the UniverSoul Circus joining us for our holiday," said At-Large Councilman Vincent Orange, who helped facilitate both of the circus' appearances. "It really shows how much they recognize and appreciate such a special and important day for this city."
Orange was assisted by Greg O'Dell, Events DC president and CEO, and Erik Moses, managing director of Sports & Entertainment in bringing the circus to the District.
"When Ms. R. Amari Ballard approached me about the circus coming to DC, I was excited," Orange said. "I called Greg and Erik immediately to facilitate a deal. It's my understanding that a three-year deal has been executed."
Tickets are now on sale for the DC shows which run from June 5 to June 9. The five shows will take place at RFK Stadium and are sure to be a popular draw.
The UniverSoul Circus was founded in 1994 in Atlanta, Georgia, and has toured throughout the world. The circus, which features an eclectic mix of talents from around the world including West African horsemen, Trinidad and Tobago, is currently in the midst of a nationwide tour.
Information regarding UniverSoul Circus shows and tour dates can be found at their website, http://www.universoulcircus.com/.
Meetings to Be Held in Each Ward As Well As With Youth
Mayor Vincent C. Gray has announced a series of town-hall-style meetings to introduce District residents to, and receive feedback from them on, his Fiscal Year 2014 Proposed Budget and Financial Plan.
The $10.1 billion budget leverages the District's strong financial position to make major investments in expanding affordable housing, strengthening education and workforce development, and safeguarding public safety without raising new taxes or fees.
"We have assembled this budget based on extensive feedback from community organizations and from all 13 members of the D.C. Council, and I look forward to further feedback from everyday District residents on its proposals," Mayor Gray said. "These town halls will help us further refine this budget and ensure it provides the maximum benefit to everyone in our city."
All meetings will take place from 6:30 p.m. to 8:30 p.m., unless otherwise noted:
WARD 5 Wednesday, April 10th Luke C. Moore Academy, 1001 Monroe St. NE
WARD 1 Thursday, April 11th Columbia Heights Community Ctr., 1480 Girard St. NW
WARD 8 Wednesday, April 17th Turner Elementary School, 3264 Stanton Rd. SE
WARD 4 Thursday, April 18th Brightwood Elementary School, 1300 Nicholson St. NW
YOUTH Saturday, April 20th Sumner School and Archives, 1201 17th St. NW (11 a.m. – 1 p.m.)
WARD 2 Saturday, April 20th Sumner School and Archives, 1201 17th St. NW (2 p.m. – 4 p.m.)
WARD 6 Thursday, April 25th Logan School, 215 G St. NE
WARD 3 Tuesday, April 30th Alice Deal Middle School, 3815 Fort Dr. NW
WARD 7 Thursday, May 2nd Department of Employment Services, 4058 Minnesota Ave. NE
Graham Honored by Minority Enterprise Advocate Magazine
Friday, 29 March 2013 13:56 Published in Local
Thomas H. Graham Named One of 50 Powerful US/International Business Executives
Pepco Region President, Thomas H. Graham has been named one of the Fifty Powerful US/International Business Executives for 2013 by Minority Enterprise Advocate Magazine (MEA).
Graham was honored with an award at an MEA Gala Wednesday evening March 27.
"I thank Minority Enterprise Advocate Magazine for this honor. The economic success of our company is fundamentally grounded in our core belief in every aspect of diversity," said Graham. "Everyone wins when people are presented with the opportunity to use their talents and training to enjoy a positive quality of life for their families."
MEA honors executives making headlines in their fields, and who share a commitment to business growth, professional excellence and empowering communities around the world through philanthropy. In addition, the award recognizes the executives for shaping the economic future nationally and internationally, being leaders in changing public policy, and making significant contributions to enhance trade and commerce in the U.S. and abroad.
Inductees Include 3 Local Sports Personalities
The Beltway Plaza Mall has dedicated its new “Wall of Fame” in honor of the many citizens in the Prince George’s County community who’ve achieved success in their careers.
The first three inductees included Seth “Mayhem” Mitchell, local heavyweight boxer, Walt “Wizard” Williams, former NBA star and Lara Aribisala, DC DIVAS defensive end.
The dedication took place March 23 and was attended by Greenbelt Mayor Judith F. “J” Davis, now in her 10th term on the Greenbelt City Council, and Mayor Pro Tem Emmett Jordan.
“This is a special day for all of us at Beltway Plaza Mall as we honor three special individuals who’ve made a mark in our community,” said Marc “Kap” Kapastin, who rendered remarks said during the ceremony. “We intend to grow our Wall of Fame with new honorees in the future in all walks of life.”
Attendees enjoyed refreshments and short presentations from each of the honorees and special guests which also inclded Rich Daniels manager of the DC Divas football team.
About The Inductees:
Omolara "Lara" Aribisala
Her name is Omolara but everyone calls her Lara. She’s a single mother of two beautiful girls ages 14 & 11 and was born the youngest of five children in Ibandan, Nigeria and emigrated to the U.S. 27 years ago. Lara proudly became a U.S. citizen just last year. As a professional football player with the Divas, Lara earned the Most Improved Player Award in 2008. The Divas won the Northeastern Division Championship in 2007, 2009, 2010, 2011 and 2012.
Seth “Mayhem” Mitchell
Mitchell’s superb football play brought him recognition and many high school football awards, including his selection as one of the top 20 linebackers in the nation. Seth graduated from Michigan State University and his nickname, "Mayhem," was given to him by his football teammate at Michigan State. In 2008, Mitchell began his professional boxing career. After only his second professional fight, he signed with Oscar De La Hoya's Golden Boy Promotions. Currently, Mitchell’s record stands at 25-1-1 with knockouts.
Walter 'Wizard" Williams
A sharpshooting 6'8" forward/guard, Williams attended school at the University of Maryland from 1988 to 1992, and is credited by many for resurrecting the school’s basketball program. Williams was selected by the Sacramento Kings with the seventh pick of the 1992 NBA Draft and was on the 1992-93 NBA All-Rookie Second Team. He went on to play 11 seasons in the NBA, with the Kings, the Miami Heat, the Toronto Raptors, the Portland Trail Blazers, the Houston Rockets, and the Dallas Mavericks.
Congresswoman Donna F. Edwards (MD-4) will host a Women's Health Expo On Saturday, April 13 at the Prince George's Ballroom & Kentland Community Center, located at 2411 Pinebrook Ave., in Landover, Md.
The expo will feature health tests and screenings, dance and health exercises, and healthy meal demonstrations.
For more information, visit www.donnaedwards.house.gov or call (301) 516.7601.
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