Pres. Obama yesterday speaking at Georgetown University (3.30.11), Wash., D.C.

By Doni Morton Glover, www.bmorenews.com

(WASHINGTON – March 31, 2011) – First, a few thoughts. This being my second visit to Georgetown University, I felt sort of like a veteran tourist. The first time was because of the kindness of a great mentor, Mr. Charles Robinson. Charles had me do a backpack journalism workshop at a National Association of Black Journalists conference there a couple of years ago. To say the least, it was indeed an honor to grace such a profound campus – filled with some of America’s brightest minds.

Secondly, as I peered the walls at the McDonough Arena – I noticed a NCAA ’84 Champs banner among the many on the wall. That was a beautiful year for some folks I know, namely the Class of ‘83. And for those of us who were Dunbar basketball fans, it will forever be remembered when our beloved Reggie Williams helped lead Georgetown to the very top. 

Thirdly, given yesterday’s theme of “Winning the Future” – has Charlie Sheen’s “WINNING!” crept into the fold once again?   

Now, on to the substance of yesterday’s speech by the President at Georgetown on energy …

Going to see the President yesterday, in retrospect, was like going to the doctor to hear him tell you how long you’ve got left to live.

For instance, he noted that America consumes one-fourth of the world’s oil. He also mentioned India and China, both with a billion plus people, and what will happen when they start driving and becoming oil-dependent … like us. I’m no mathematician, although I do have a couple of years of good, ol’ Baltimore Polytechnic under my belt. Bottom line: Not pretty! … Unless we can develop alternative energy sources that are more friendly to the environment.

Electric cars, he suggested to the ever-attentive Georgetown University students, must become en vogue. Academic study of green industries is imperative to the future of business. Scientific study of how to best amass other sources of energy is more critical now than ever before.

The problem, clearly, is that America is addicted to oil. And, like an addict, we’ll ultimately do anything to soothe that Jones. Another problem: Like an addict, we then bring other people into the equation, like people who have oil a.k.a the dealers. And we cannot forget those other addicted nations, i.e. the UK, France.

Add in the nuclear holocaust creeping onto the international scene from Ground Zero in Japan and the fight for freedom all across the North African and Arab world … including Libya – and one might quickly conclude that being President of the United States is not the easiest thing in the world right now.

Here are some of the talking points from yesterday: Pres. Obama said that if we find solutions now, it will cost us less in the future. He said we must “cut what we don’t need to invest in what we do need.”

He said that China and Germany are now exporting energy, an area where the US once led back in the ’80s. Hence, since “we already have the technology,” now is the time to make technology work for America and for mankind.

As for electric cars, he said at issue is the creation of a lighter, safer battery. He also mentioned creating incentives for consumers to make electric cars more appealing. Electric cars, he said, require safer, more efficient ways to manage electricity. Pres. Obama’s goal: one million electric cars by 2015. This is where he pulled in students and encouraged them to boost the demand for green vehicles.

He praised Detroit, also. He pointed to the new combustion engine cars “coming off the assembly lines” that get some 50 miles per gallon.

He highlighted the need to review fuel standards for trucks coming this summer. He also noted that the fuel efficiency standards in this country haven’t changed in 3 decades. “That means 30 years of lost time,” he said. Last year, he proudly reported, new standards were made.

So, despite America’s voracious appetite for oil, the President suggested that it is time to look at renewable bio fuels, like those in Brazil (a country he recently visited). He also listed the need to safely explore natural gas reserves.

Still, he cautioned, “We can’t drill our way out of dependence.” At the end of the day, Obama encourages safe and responsible off shore drilling and more of a dependence on good, ‘ol fashioned “American ingenuity.”

In the midst of immediate dangers, the President nonetheless placed attention on the future as it relates to energy … and what we’re going to do. In short, ‘change we must or die we will.’ Die to what? Our own selfishness and greed. I mean, c’mon – we are a nation of 300 million and we consume one-fourth of the world’s oil. Hello! It doesn’t take a scholar to figure out that eventually, we’re going to be in a serious pickle.

Futuristic movies have stolen my attention for years. I think they provide a glimpse of what’s to come. Typically, there’s an underlying theme in them – like that man has used up all of the earth’s resources and has caused the sky to be blacked out. No water. No gasoline. Lawlessness. A class struggle that typically ends in violence.

‘If we ever needed’ leadership in this country before, Lord knows ‘we sure do need it now!’

Thank you, Mr. President, for keeping our challenges before us, but also helping to inspire and find solutions to those threats and dangers – foreign and domestic – immediate and future.

BTV Video Reports

Pres. Obama on Energy at Georgetown University, 3.30.11, Pt. 2:
Connecting the situations in Japan and the Middle East with our need for energy, oil. Impact of energy on everyday person, businesses, the country overall. “We have been down this road before!” $4/gallon for gas

Pres. Obama on Energy at Georgetown University, 3.30.11, Pt. 1:
America consumes 1/4th of the world’s oil: Fact!

BMORENEWS’ Doni Glover Reports on Pres. Obama’s Energy Speech, 3.30.11:
President spoke of American ingenuity at Georgetown University’s McDonough Arena, Washington, D.C. 

The Torbit family appeared for the first time at a recent press conference called by WFBR 1590 AM's Daren Muhammad and BMORENEWS.com

By Doni Glover, www.bmorenews.com

(BALTIMORE – January 24, 2011) – What happens when more and more upwardly mobile whites live in a majority black city where many blacks are economically, politically, and socially stuck? Welcome to Baltimore!

It’s a discussion that few are willing to have: RACE. W. E. B. DuBois stated at the end of the 19th century that color would be the problem of the 20^th century. Seemingly, it remains so still today.

In light of the two major incidents that have engulfed the minds and spirits of the people, race – once again – raises its head.

Many white people, I imagine, might question why the black folks are all up in arms about an 8-year veteran police officer, William H. Torbit, Jr., being gunned down in the streets like a dog. Black people, on the other hand, don’t have to wonder at all. Black people, for the most part, recognize that if the police have the license to unload on Torbit, they will surely do it to us – hands down – no question.

While Torbit’s case is currently in the Baltimore City Police Department’s hands, another case is a little further down the road. That would be the case of Eliyahu Werdesheim and his alleged attack on the Northwestern High School student walking through an upper Park Heights neighborhood. The youth is black; Werdesheim is a white Jewish man, and apparent member of the Shomrim security patrol. First degree assault charges (a felony) were dropped against Mr. Werdesheim last week. Then, in an interesting twist of events, his brother, Avi, was charged. Additionally, there is one other suspect who has not been charged.

This incident also wreaked ill feelings among Baltimore’s black population. And, to say the least, the new State’s Attorney for Baltimore, Gregg Bernstein, only responded to questions last week with a “No comment.”

This didn’t go over well to black leaders either.

And so, on this brisk Monday morning, the community leaders have organized a press conference in front of the Mitchell Courthouse downtown where Bernstein’s office is located. Clearly, these leaders want an intelligent and mindful response from the newly elected official who beat out Patricia Jessamy, a black woman who held the post for the past 16 years.

Bernstein is white; further, he is married to Sheryl Goldstein. Goldstein runs the City’s Criminal Justice division, a seemingly integral part of the City’s law enforcement policy making body.

In short, there is an historic mistrust by citizens, many of whom are black, of the police and the entire criminal justice system in Maryland – especially in Baltimore.

Hence, Mayor Stephanie Rawlings-Blake and the Police Department and the State’s Attorney’s Office might do well to pull together a message for the people because right now, the citizens are restless. There is a strong consensus that City Hall is out of touch with the black citizenry.

One might also note that since Torbit’s killing, Rawlings-Blake has come under fire by the Fraternal Order of Police (FOP) for calling for an independent investigation of the double homicide that involved all-police gunplay.

Some wonder who is running the City and whether the mayor, the police, and the State’s Attorney are all on the same page.

 The Spectator reported in March of 2009:

What’s most fascinating to me, the quintessential political junkie, is that this is a citywide election year. To say the least, as the candidates – one by one – step to the mic to tell us why they want to be the mayor for the next four years, I am curious as to who will exemplify leadership to the masses in light of the racial earthquake that still sends tremors across Baltimore.

Who will step up and speak the words of healing so desperately needed in times like these? Who will allay the fears and concerns of the average citizen afraid of both the good guys and the bad guys? Mayor Blake? Otis Rolley, the man who recently called on Bill Cosby as he announced his mayoral intentions? State Senator Cathy Pugh, the current chair of the Black Caucus of Maryland who has been noting as of late that black people constitute 30% of the population of the State of Maryland and are long overdue for their fair share of the pie? Or, will Kweisi Mfume give some breaking news?

Time will tell, no doubt. However, the people are hurting now and are in need of a healing now. Folks on the street see the criminal justice system in Baltimore as one focused purely on “just us.” Until that perception changes, until leadership arises that will speak truth to power, until the hearts and souls of the people are touched and inspired as only a leader can – racism will continue to fester and wreak its wicked head on an otherwise forsaken population.

When is ‘enough’ enough?

Baltimore County Councilman Joe Bartenfelder, candidate for County Exec

By Doni Morton Glover, www.bmorenews.com

Yep! I can tell you some stories about my treks out Liberty Road via bus, bicycle, and even on foot; back in high school, my Herculean accomplishment was jogging from Coppin to Liberty and Rolling Rd. Oh, the invincibility of youth!

Well, time moved on; but, my love for my weekend get-away only got stronger. And as the journalism thing would come to fruition, I’d even get the opportunity to serve as Editor of the Northwest Voice newspaper. That was a monthly put out by advertising guru and Scott Donohue supporter Kenny Brown a couple years back.

Although short-lived, that opportunity brought with it an even more intimate schooling on the workings of Baltimore County. For instance, people like County Councilman and former Development Credit Fund banker Ken Oliver would tell me about how the County’s way of doing business is more conservative than how we get down in the city.

During my Northwest Voice tenure, I’d come to question certain things, and I’d also come to understand the power of the black vote in the northwest area. From Woodlawn to Lochearn to Randallstown to Owings Mills and Pikesville, I’ve learned that this area is the wealthiest part of Greater Black Baltimore. African Americans in this neck of the woods are quite often homeowners, college educated, and gainfully employed.

As the publisher of www.BMORENEWS.com, we have focused on 5 core areas in our 8 years of covering the news: public education, black business, ex-offender services, affordable housing, and universal access to health care.

Hence, I’ve always attempted to bring some intelligent dialogue to my columns on Northwest Baltimore County – especially since my three siblings and most of their children and grandchildren are products of the Baltimore County Public School system.

For the uninitiated, many of the residents of this segment of Baltimore County hail originally from Baltimore city. Thanks to integration, African Americans who desired a more suburban lifestyle flocked to this area – particularly over the past 40 years.

With this urban flight, however, came certain consequences. For instance, many people kept on voting in their old neighborhoods. Also, County living caused some African Americans to become less connected. And when it comes to politics, some African Americans in Baltimore County have fallen into an abyss – having no idea of who Jim Smith, the current County Exec, is.

Many times on our weekly WOLB 1010 AM radio show, I have tirelessly toiled to encourage African Americans in the Northwest to become engaged in the affairs of Baltimore County, for example, by going to the County Council and School Board meetings held in Towson. However, truth be told, by the time people get home from work, help their kids with homework, and water their lawns – the last thing one ponders is heading to Towson.

However, given the enormity of African American wealth in this part of the state (I refer to the Northwest as Baltimore’s Prince George’s County, the wealthiest black jurisdiction in the country) – this is inexcusable.

African Americans have far too much invested to not have a say in the goings-on of this voter-wealthy part of Maryland.

In short, Northwest Baltimore County is the swing vote in this year’s County Exec race. Don’t get it twisted! Others will suggest the battlegrounds are elsewhere, however, all one need do is listen to Kevin Kamenetz’s barrage of radio commercials on Radio One’s four stations – and on Heaven 600 AM – targeting the black community in the Northwest corridor.

So, here’s the skinny: State Senator Delores Kelley, who flip-flopped support on County Councilman Ken Oliver 8 years ago – has done it again. Back then, N. Scott Phillips and Penny McCrimmon were forces with which to be reckoned. However, despite tepid support from Kelley and the 10^th District Democratic Club, Oliver prevailed.

Honestly, I don’t think Oliver ever forgot what happened 8 years ago. I tend to believe that when loyalty is broken, the scenario is irreparable. Trust goes out the window!

In any event, Oliver has done well as the first African American on an otherwise all-white male County Council. Windsor Mill Middle School and the Randallstown Community Resource Center and the new athletic center are demonstrative of his accomplishments.

Interestingly, Kamenetz represented Liberty Road for 8 years, and would suggest he did so much for my County brethren. He even insinuated yesterday on WOLB that he was the force behind helping this area get its first black Councilman.

Wrong!

Ask Ella White Campbell, also a matriarch of this part of the County. The long-time advocate for African Americans told BMORENEWS.com in an exclusive interview on Tuesday night that it was because of her pressure that Kamenetz ‘did the right thing.’

Common sense suggests that when you have been there for people and have done the right thing, your work will be self-evident.

Has the Kamenetz campaign been genuine? Has he really been an advocate for blacks in the County? I don’t think so.

But the question remains: Does he really care about black people?

As for me, short of Jesus coming on the radio touting Kamenetz – it really doesn’t matter who endorses this man. I like County Councilman Joe Bartenfelder, a man’s man.

Like Oliver told me early on, Bartenfelder will look you in the eye and speak his mind.

Over the past several weeks, I have come to find him to be a man of his word. He has not made a promise he has not kept. He doesn’t mind rolling up his sleeves, nor getting his hands dirty. More importantly, I have yet to hear him tear down Kamenetz so as to prop up himself.

Like the old folks say, if you lie – you steal; if you steal – you cheat; and if you cheat – you ain’t no damn good!

Bartenfelder for Baltimore County Exec! Go, Joe!         

The final Baltimore State's Attorney forum was held yesterday (9.7.10) at UB

(BALTIMORE – September 8, 2010) – For me, yesterday’s candidates’ forum at the University of Baltimore pretty much summed up the fight between Baltimore City State’s Attorney Pat Jessamy and attorney Gregg Bernstein. A third candidate, Sheryl Lansey, was also present and shared great insight as to why Baltimore is so violent.

The moderator was Prof. Byron Warnken.

There was a packed audience, and I’m quite sure one can find their opinions online. However, as for me, I couldn’t take another minute of Bernstein’s approach.

If the only way he can look good is to attack and tear down Jessamy’s office, he has truly robbed himself.

While I was not feeling Bernstein before the forum, I did go with an open mind to hear for myself – in person – what solutions this candidate might offer. Yet, when the opportunity to demonstrate his leadership potential appeared, each time he swung and missed.   

Instead, if you let Bernstein tell it, State’s Attorney Jessamy and her office have done nothing right and is solely responsible for Baltimore’s violent nature.

One thing that repeatedly has crossed my mind – even as this forum was happening – is how 44% of America’s prison population (in the most incarcerating nation on the planet) is black and male – like me.

And so, as I’m listening to Bernstein, and as I reflected on how so many people I grew up with are locked up, all I can see in this man is a desire to lock up more people.

Veering off of this race a bit, the solution for Baltimore’s violence is very simple. Jobs! And schools!

But, no! Baltimore gets two new prisons, instead.

Really and truly, I understand why Baltimore is so violent. Not at all making excuses, but in order to understand the violence, one must understand the conditions out of which the violence emanates: Fractured, if not broken families; single mothers trying to raise sons; absent fathers and selfish step-fathers.

Add empty pockets on top of that in a world so tuned-in to the mass media’s commercial onslaughts, and what do you get: Frustration!

In any event, it’s as if Bernstein shoots himself in the foot every time he speaks. Personally, I need to hear more about solutions and less tearing down of the major opponent – even if she hasn’t done the best possible job.

Often, Bernstein was obnoxious with his attacks, and seemed more focused on what Jessamy did wrong than on providing tangible solutions so as to help make Baltimore a safer place to live, work, and play!

Doni Glover and Baltimore County MBE leader Ron Harvey

Who’s Still Standing in Baltimore County? Pt. 2: County Exec Bartenfelder, Councilman Oliver, 10^th and 11^th District Teams

By Doni Glover, www.BMORENEWS.com

(BALTIMORE – September 6, 2010 ) – Let’s go to Baltimore County – particularly the NW. That would be Woodlawn, Randallstown, Owings Mills and Pikesville. For the County Exec race, BMORENEWS is of the belief that the Joe Bartenfelder camp philosophy is simply more genuine than that of Kevin Kamenetz. The people we’ve interviewed on the ground in NW Baltimore County have told us repeatedly that Kamenetz didn’t do anything memorable for blacks when his district included the black part of the county, i.e. Liberty Road.  

While his radio commercials do the name-dropping maneuver featuring prominent voices from the black community pretty well, we’re simply not buying it. We need more than some election-time attention over the airwaves of Radio One and Heaven 600. Those in the know in NW Baltimore County have told us that they would prefer a down-to-earth Bartenfelder over the charismatic Kamenetz. And this is not because Councilman Bartenfelder sells collard greens on Sundays at The Farmers’ Market (I’ve yet to try them).

He just doesn’t appear to be a man who says something he doesn’t mean. In politics, as with most everything else, character defines an individual.

Further, we have yet to figure out why certain politicos in NW Baltimore County endorsed Kamenetz so early in the process. Typically, endorsements come out in the latter part of the game after some negotiations, agreements, and promises have been made – in good faith.

Understand, it is not enough to tell people you are going to look out for them; in 16 years, one ought to have a track record to point to that includes a little bit more than putting in surveillance cameras at area malls.

During a recent interview with Joe Bartenfelder, we feel he effectively showed who he is, that he is mindful of the power of the black vote, and that he sincerely plans to work with the African American community in the future. And he is a sports enthusiast who wants to see all people grow and develop.

Additionally, with the support of Baltimore County Councilman Ken Oliver, we tend to believe that Bartenfelder is even more likely to do what he says. After all, it is all about relationships.

Being forthright, I have to say that Bartenfelder touched my soul last Tuesday when he said on our WOLB 1010 weekly radio show that he wanted to see a Negro Leagues Museum in the NW part of the county.

Segue from Bartenfelder to Oliver, Bartenfelder’s ever-supportive black connect
Oliver, the first African American on the Council, has done a lot more for black Baltimore County than most in history. From the areas with well water to the areas with running water, Oliver literally understands the lay of the land. And the former banker has clearly demonstrated that he can work with those of other ethnicities. Despite a faux pas, he has a respectable track record, understands County politics, and has brought resources and services to an otherwise forsaken part of Baltimore County in an unprecedented manner.

So, while we’re in the county, it should be known that we believe Ken Oliver deserves re-election.

Lastly, be mindful of the undercover game being manipulated for the sake of Bethel AME Church. Although they legally won the right to put a church in Granite, no mega church needs to be in this rural area, one loaded with bunny rabbits, foxes, and deer. Environmentalist and conservationists should be outraged that someone seeks to destroy the rural element in Granite – all for the sake of a mega church which began in Baltimore City.

Besides, Bethel has vacant properties in its block on Druid Hill Avenue – and has had them for years. Doesn’t charity start at home? Furthermore, the blend of politics and church business is questionable at best … in our modest opinion.

Bottomline: Joe Bartenfelder for Baltimore County Exec. Ken Oliver for re-elect. 10^th & 11^th Teams Re-Elected
As for the 10^th district team, they will all be re-elected. State Senator Delores Kelley is a staple, having led over 100 bills into law. Speaker Pro Tem Adrienne Jones is way on top of her game to be toppled; also, she knows the pulse of the community, answers her phone, and makes a lot of things happen behind the scenes. Del. Shirley Nathan-Pulliam, a strong black woman with Jamaican roots, has the blessings of the ancestors and the heart of the constituents. Further, her “nursing” nature is just too powerful; she innately cares about all people. And finally, Del. Rev. Emmett Burns is a force all by himself; you gotta love that!

The 11^th District Team, featuring State Senator Bobby “wear my t-shirt” Zirkin and the three delegates, Dr. Dan Morhaim, Dana Stein, and Jon Cardin: They, too, glide back into office without a bump in the road.

For the record, I think Dr. Morhaim, a surgeon at Sinai Hospital and a volunteer at Baltimore City’s Healthcare for the Homeless, is one of the greatest people in the world: Hands-down! He understands relationships. He understands politics. He understands business. He doesn’t sugar-coat the truth. He calls ‘em like he sees ‘em. And he is a loyal to his family and friends. What more could one ask for?

COIL's Stacie Smith speaks with Baltimore State's Attorney Pat Jessamy regarding the rights of area seniors after a recent Town Hall Meeting (8.26.10)

Two Weeks Out from MD Primary …
Who’s Still Standing? Pt. I

By Doni Glover, www.bmorenews.com

(BALTIMORE – September 2, 2010) – The next two weeks, clearly, are the championship rounds: it’s where all of the dress rehearsals finally get to come to fruition. On Tuesday, September 14, 2010, some candidates in Maryland and Washington, DC will win – maybe even for the first time; and some will lose.

BMORENEWS.com and its special correspondents, including Bobby Marvin (HueVoices.com) and long-time journalist Haki Ammi, have attempted to bring some clarity to some of the key races in this year’s statewide election in Maryland and the District.

Washington, DC may elect a new mayor in the person of Councilman Vincent Gray. Mayor Adrian Fenty apparently has some public relations challenges with members of the African American community that could cause him not to see re-election.  

At the end of the day in that and all other races, it’s up to the voters. Hence, whomever can get the most votes out of the people voting wins. By the way, voter turnout can be a critical factor for any close races; rain, for example, can often slow voting in certain parts.

Our MD Poli10 coverage began back in January as former Prince George’s County Executive Wayne Curry kicked the New Year off with a birthday party that attracted some 3,000 plus people in attendance.

For a few months, people wondered if Curry would make a run for Governor of Maryland. He would ultimately decide not to and promptly returned to civilian life.

In any event, September 14^th primary often symbolizes victory for Democrats in a 2-to-1 Democratic state. Further, Baltimore is a 9-to-1 Democratic town.

On that note, the 14^th also marks the beginning of O’Malley vs Ehrlich II, the rematch. Can the Republican former Governor Robert Ehrlich take back the throne? Or, will Gov. Martin O’Malley retain the State House? That remains to be seen.

What’s sure to be exciting is any series of debates that are likely to occur. Personally, I’d like to hear some discussion of business opportunities for minorities, ie black folks. I’d also like to hear some good news on the funding of our public schools. And if I had to choose a third priority, it would be health care. Del. Dan Morhaim, M.D. was recently on The Huckabee TV Show and did a stellar job explaining some of the key elements of “ObamaCare”. While we have covered Pres. Barack Obama’s intentions to address major health issues specifically regarding the African American community, I’d simply like to hear more about helping to reduce medical costs to Marylanders – including the cost of prescriptions.

Locally, three races have captivated my imagination this election season: The Baltimore City State’s Attorney’s Office; the Baltimore County Exec; and the 4^th Councilmanic District.

With 15 years under her belt, Baltimore City State’s Attorney Pat Jessamy faces opposition from Defense Attorney Greg Bernstein. Last week, Bernstein’s campaign came under fire for what many, including University of Baltimore Law Professor Larry Gibson, thought was a tasteless piece of negative advertising; one of his ads featured the Dawson Family in East Baltimore where a clip of the Dawson tragedy was used without the family’s permission.

Also, while Bernstein has gathered up much more money than Jessamy, she does have the support of people like former Baltimore Mayor and former City State’s Attorney Kurt L. Schmoke.  As for the Baltimore County Exec race which seems primarily between two Democrats – Kevin Kamenetz and Joe Bartenfelder, Kamenetz seems to hold the fundraising advantage.

However, last Friday, Bartenfelder could be seen campaigning with long-time Council chum Ken Oliver.

Oliver, the first African American on the County Council, seems to have the toughest opposition from Bethel AME Church member Leronia Josey.

Baltimore State's Attorney Jessamy told supporters yesterday that having opposition is nothing new

By Doni Glover, www.bmorenews.com

(BALTIMORE – July 26, 2010) – Baltimore City State’s Attorney Pat Jessamy said yesterday at her 62nd birthday celebration that facing political opposition is nothing new. She stated that she has always had challenges from individuals who sensed that they could do the job better.

However, from the strong turn-out yesterday at her annual party at the Baltimore Rowing Club, I can only suggest to her challengers that they come with their A-game. Surrounded by the likes of political strategists Pat Scott and Larry Gibson, there is no doubt that Jessamy will run another formidable campaign for re-election.

Further, I might add that she appeared quite indomitable as she stood on a ladder in the center of the party to give her campaign speech. Clearly, she rallied her supporters with an upbeat message – full of hope and vigor.

Both the Baltimore Sun and the Investigative Voice have been featuring her critics, including challenger Greg Bernstein. To date, there seems to be a lot of back and forth between the two camps over basic facts. In short, Jessamy insists that her office’s record of convictions of violent criminals in Baltimore has been very good.

And she is particularly proud of her office’s track record hiring minorities. Even more, former Mayor/State’s Attorney Kurt L. Schmoke agrees.

Her opponent, on the other hand, thinks otherwise; yet, to date, he has not proven his point with any pertinent facts from any credible source. This is the assertion of University of Baltimore law professor and staunch Jessamy-supporter Gibson. Gibson contends that Bernstein is “dishonest”.

Also, besides this blog war, there is also some interesting support for Bernstein, a lawyer with 3 ½ years prosecutorial experience and over 20 years as a defense attorney; and it is coming from a well-known name in the African American community: Attorney Warren Brown. After at least two interviews with Brown, it is clear that he is under the notion that Jessamy’s office could hand out stiffer punishments and make more of a positive impact on the larger community by keeping violent offenders off the streets. The one interesting if not odd thing here, however, is that Brown is a defense attorney, who’s job is to get his clients the least amount of jail time – if any at all.

Doni Glover at White House, 7.13.10

Exactly 8 Weeks Until MD Primary

By Doni Glover, www.bmorenews.com

(BALTIMORE – July 20, 2010) – The Maryland primary election occurs in exactly 8 weeks. On that day, many politicians will either secure or re-secure their seats as Maryland is a 2-to-1 Democratic state. In Baltimore City, Democrats rule 9-to-1. Hence, the primary is the finish line in many races. Harford County, on the other hand, tends to go the other way. So, several Republicans can rest comfortably after Tuesday, September 14^th, knowing that they have 4 years to serve.

Yep, the battle for many politicians is in full swing. November, however, is when the big show goes down as the two titans, Democratic Gov. Martin O’Malley and former Republican Gov. Robert Ehrlich will square-off in what could be the biggest political re-match in Maryland history.

Before I go on, let me congratulate the Obama administration for its continued efforts to stem the rise of HIV/AIDS infections. After making my third visit to the White House last Tuesday regarding the issue, I am greatly pleased with this administration’s initiative. Despite the unexpected BP fiasco and its effects on the land and the people of the Gulf Coast, despite the opposition Pres. Barack Obama has faced in attempting to provide all Americans with health care (no matter how arduous the task), despite unprecedented corporate theft on Wall Street, and despite two wars he inherited from the previous administration, I think this president has exceeded expectations. One last thing on our president: I am always amazed at the Sunday morning news shows that feature people who have never been president and how ridiculous they sound playing Monday morning quarterback.

This morning, I found myself watching “We Were Soldiers.” It is a 2002 war drama featuring the ever-popular Mel Gibson, Madeliene Stowe, Sam Elliott, and Greg Kinnear. Gibson plays a lieutenant colonel whom is charged with leading 400 US troops against incredible odds: 2,000 North Vietnamese. The stage was in 1965. Interestingly for me, that is the year in which I was born.

As each Tuesday approaches, I am always in search of something inspirational to share with our listeners on our weekly news talk radio show on Radio One’s WOLB 1010 AM at 10 am.

After watching a spectacular performance by Gibson, I couldn’t help but relate the movie to what I see most often: the struggle in the African American community. While I will not attempt to recap the movie, I will share a couple of things that I got out of it.

Number one: Followers (soldiers) appreciate a leader who is on the ground with them. Number two: True leadership has character, sincerity, courage, and most of all – vision in the midst of fire.

As the election season ubiquitously surrounds all Marylanders, politicians who make generic spiels and empty promises should be put on point by the people. Don’t vote for them. Vote for those whom have a record – a true record of service. Voters should be already prepared when they get to the polls. They should know truth from fiction, real from phony, and the deliverables vs. the impossible.

My community, the 44^th legislative district, easily could be considered the most challenged in the state. I see the effects of blight and neglect everyday. I see new prisons coming and closed schools turn into training facilities for law enforcement, i.e. the former William Pinderhughes Elementary. I see dope lines daily, yet a hunger for drug treatment beds. I see boarded up houses and essentially little to no development over the past decade, including a barrage of barely-making it small businesses.

So, there is not too much a politician can say that I haven’t heard. There isn’t a promise they can make that I will really believe. There isn’t an iota of encouragement I really expect to hear; nothing but more of the same. I guess I’ve become cynical.

On the other hand, my favorite part of “We Were Soliders” was when the call was made for “Broken Arrow.” That term means that all lines of defense have been broken by the enemy. It also means that all attack planes are to respond to that area. The “Broken Arrow” call needs to be made for the 44^th and other impoverished communities in Baltimore City and Prince George’s County – the two areas dominated by African Americans in an otherwise 30% black state.

This means that pastors, politicians, Civil Rights leaders, business people, professionals, educators, parents, volunteers, healthcare workers – and everybody else must come together so as to fight the seemingly insurmountable odds that surround us. Everybody has a role to play. For instance, if the politician’s primary goal is to grow his or her own business, then they do not fully grasp the concept of public service. If the politician’s main focus, in another scenario, is to move up a notch to the next level – having not mastered the previous level, then voters might want to re-think their vote.

There was a time when there were soldiers in the black community. There was a time when leadership was ever-present. It seems, however, that the black community – and America as a whole, for that matter – has become consumed with selfishness. Tisk! Tisk!  

Pray, research the candidates, and be a part of the solution in your community. Be pro-active and help make a difference. Most of all, embrace the concept of service in your own life. 

Bernard "Jack" Young, Baltimore City Council President

“It’s nice to be important, but it’s important to be nice.”

By Doni Glover, www.bmorenews.com

(BALTIMORE – April 29, 2010) – Jack’s drawers and Sheila’s shoes; what’s the world a’coming to?

The City of Baltimore just got over one corruption bump in the road with our former mayor, Sheila Dixon. Most recall the general details, so I won’t belabor the point. Well, Jimmy Choo shoes and a shoe on the podium do come to mind. 

Now, Baltimore City Council President Bernard “Jack” Young, the same guy who asked reporters if they wanted to see his drawers, is in the hot seat.

When he was asked by WBAL TV-11’s Jane Miller where he actually lived, my understanding is that he didn’t do himself justice – at least from a PR perspective.

Jumping to the TV-11 headline story for the past two evenings, Miller has been reporting on what role the City Solicitor, George Nilson, plays in Young’s case.

According to TV-11, Young has paid back $12,000 for a Central Avenue house that was bought for his sister, who does not live there. Young says he lives there. Neighbors refute.

Further, earlier reports note that this house was purchased when Young was on the board of Historic East Baltimore Community Action Coaltion (HEBCAC). HEBCAC was originally organized as central East Baltimore’s Empowerment Zone village center. In other words, this was an initiative to help empower community residents who might not otherwise have the opportunity to become homeowners.

I am an unapologetically black advocate for the black community. However, right is right. Wrong is wrong. Black people of my generation and before were taught that we had to be twice as good as our white counterparts. Therefore, pulling the race card, crying victim and stating that “white people do it, too” just ain’t my cup of tea.

In my best estimation, it’s apparent that too many black politicians keep forgetting the whole concept of public service. If you want to be rich, do it before you go into office or after you come out. To use the public trust for personal gain is simply wrong. And it’s illegal and unethical.

Once again, City Hall seems to be home to greed, arrogance, and entitlement. No one else will respect us – especially if we don’t respect ourselves. Once again, corruption has raised its ugly head at City Hall, and … we have no one to blame but ourselves.

(BALTIMORE – April 13, 2010) – Those who are regular readers of this column know that I rarely pull the race card. I always promote victor over victim thinking. However, in light of recent developments, something must be said … and something must be done.

From Daren Muhammad’s mistreatment at Baltimore City Public Schools’ headquarters by schools’ superintendent Dr. Andres Alonso (who has still not responded) to Tracye Stafford’s Velvet Rope nite club and its being targeted by a Marriott Hotel to yesterday’s news of Communities Organized to Improve Life’s (COIL) being a front for the Black Guerilla Family (BGF) – the madness seemingly does not stop.

Yes, Daren can be critical. Yet, he has a mission – an ordained mission – to hold our feet to the fire. As far as I can remember, he has been on point on the issues disaffecting the black community … like Dr. Tyrone Powers. While he can be blunt, he has been consistently in the forefront when it comes to defending black people … particularly the children.

Ms. Stafford has a beautiful nite club. We went there recently for the Haiti Yele benefit for the earthquake survivors. Hosted by Catalina Byrd and James Collins, it was a rare time that we got to see us partying for a purpose. And it was beautiful.

As for COIL and its Executive Director, Stacy Smith, being accused or painted as a front for the BGF, c’mon man!? If she is guilty, then so is the Baltimore City Police Department, the Baltimore City Health Department, and the entire Safe Streets program. With a mandate of engaging gang members, Justin Fenton of the Baltimore Sun suggests COIL is betraying the city, the people, and is some sort of front for the BGF. Ridiculous!

People, it is 2010. Black people are not going back to Africa. Black people are not all going to fit in somebody’s jail. And, being a fan of futuristic movies, not all of us are going to move to another planet when the time comes.

What the hell is wrong with this town? Can anybody tell me?

Why is race still a factor? What is up with the “Negro problem” that has obviously encapsulated the brain of otherwise brainwashed people who treat Baltimore like it is Soweto?

Because of racism, Nelson Mandela spent 27 years in prison. And so did Michael Austin … right here in Maryland. Is this right?

And now, is 26-year media icon David Brown’s show – “Real Questions” - getting the same level of respect as other shows at Morgan State University’s WEAA – a black radio station built for black people on a black campus in a majority black city? This is 2010, correct? The same station that was home to Jesse McDade-Bey and Charlie Dugger and Gossie Hudson is seemingly more concerned with going along to get along than it is with serving the people. The management at WEAA that has essentially stressed out black voices like Sandi Mallory ought be on trial for their horrendous actions to emasculate blackness and deny the essence of what it means to be black in Baltimore. Shame on them! This cavalier attitude of the management has to realize that this is not a student station; it is supposed to be a professional station that ultimately serves students.

Because of racism, America has lost some of its greatest people – from MLK to Malcolm to Emmett Till.

Racism has to be a top killer of black people.

When I think of the residents of the Baltimore City Jail, personally, I think – if these people had a lawyer, their asses would be home, sipping a soda, and maybe even getting ready to go to work.

When I think of the governor stating Maryland has the best schools in the nation, yet nothing has seemingly addressed the incredible drop-out rate of young black males in Baltimore and Prince George’s County – all I see is chicanery and buffoonery.

When I think of the whole Minority Business Enterprise conundrum and the government’s insistence that – in part – makes black businesses prove they are black (along with other minorities), I say to myself: “Bull feces”.

At some point in the near future, I would love to see this insanity come to an end. If it means that all of the black lawyers in Maryland – led by … say a Wayne Curry – and all of the black school teachers – led by … say an Andre Bundley – and all of the black businesses – led by … say an Arnold Jolivet – come together and stand up for black people … then maybe things will change.

Sadly, our preachers are seemingly more focused on building mega churches to prove to their peers that they have more mass appeal. Our black politicians are too scared and too dependent on a pay check to even possibly consider speaking truth to power – regardless of who the governor is. And our families are inundated with a recession or a depression, paying bills, celebrating a perverted pagan holiday for the sake of going shopping – that we have simply taken our eye off the ball.

Who will lead black people and all of the good people of Maryland to a brighter day? Who will say what needs to be said with the fortitude of a Harriet Tubman and a Fannie Lou Hamer? Who will make the sacrifice that, irrespective of a pay check, must be made such that our children will know that mommy and daddy care more about them than a frickin happy hour at the newest nite club? And, who will take to going to a PTA meeting over a strip club?

As has been said … time and time again: If we don’t stand for something, we will fall for anything! Wake up, black people and good white people, and put an end to the pathology of racism!

Doni Glover

Who will lead?