One-on-One with Kevin Carter

Kevin Carter, owner of the bar/lounge Club Reality, says his business is being targeted by police and residents of the Morell Park community in southwest Baltimore. He discusses his issues as of late with huevoicesdotcom's Bobby Marvin.

One-on-One with LOVE the poet

PHOTO BY: Tya Anthony for Eyeni Photography


Spoken word artist LOVE the poet opens up about her new memoir Black Marks on White Paper with huevoicesdotcom's Bobby Marvin.

One-on-One with Amber Mimz

With a sound reminiscent of the 1940s swing music and a dash of hip-hop, DC native Amber Mimz is making her way through the indie music scene. huevoicesdotcom's Bobby Marvin sat down with Mimz to chat about her musical training and her ambition to make it in the music industry.


Amber Mimz performs at Ear Candy

One-on-One with Jason Bass

PHOTO COURTESY OF Zea Hart for Blu Vision Prodcutions



IRockFox is the new popular urban apparel earning a lot of attention in the DMV, offering consumers everything from hoodies to sweatshirts. Co-Founder Jason Bass shares the main ingredient to the success of the hot clothing line and why he believes IRockFox is here to stay.

One-on-One with Greenspan

Hip-Hop artist Greenspan keeps it simple in so many ways. He doesn't bombard listeners with gimmicks or rely too much on heavy hard-hitting beats and redundant collaborations. His subject matter is neither preachy or over the top with the usual sex, money and mayhem. In this interview, Greenspan shares his aesthetic sensibility and his desire to make good music.


Greenspan performs at Gypsy Soul's Ear Candy

NABJ Regional Director Charles Robinson interviews Prince George's County Executive Rushern Baker

huevoicesdotcom's Bobby Marvin captured an exclusive interview between NABJ Regional Director Charles Robinson and Prince George's County Executive Rushern Baker. Recently, Baker was sworn in to lead Prince George's County government,in this interview he shares his vision for moving the county forward.

One-on-One with Jsoul

huevoicesdotcom's Bobby Marvin interviewed R&B/soul vocalist Jsoul on his new album Black Sinatra and his experience working with Fertile Ground front man James Collins.

Bmorenews.com wants to say Thank You!

Team Bmorenews.com wants to thank all supporters...PERSONALLY! So come out and network with others on Dec. 16th. at the Hiram Grand Lodge. Please click on the link for more details.

A huevoicesdotcom special report: Thanksgiving Weekend Boxing Bash

huevoicesdotcom's Bobby Marvin interviews former heavyweight boxing champion Hasim Rahman and his son, amateur fighter Hasim Rahman Jr.

A huevoicesdotcom special report: Ray Lewis Food Drive

Baltimore Ravens line-backer Ray Lewis partners with Walmart for food drive.

huevoicesdotcom @ cfuf's The Black Family Today and Beyond

Center for Urban Families hosted The Black Family: Today and Beyond, a community discussion on the state of the black family. Journalist and radio personality Anthony McCarthy moderated a panel discussion on family, and comedienne Meshelle led a discussion with youth.




One-on-One interview with Joy Moore

Youth and Amateur Boxing

Come see Baltimore's young champions in action at the Thanksgiving Weekend Boxing Bash on Saturday, November 27th at The Du Burns Arena. Featured Fighters will include Hasim Rahman Jr. and Sharif Rahman (sons of former World Champion boxer Hasim Rahman) along with 2x National PAL Champion Lorenzo "Tank" Davis.

One-on-One with Kevin Nickelberry

Howard University Head Coach Kevin Nickelberry shares his game plan on and off the court.

One-on-One with Raven Ekundayo

eXcapethemartriX.com publisher Raven Ekundayo speaks on the NOH8 Campaign, gay rights and his struggle to fight intolerance.

huevoicesdotcom SPEAK OUT SERIES

The caffeinated alcoholic beverage Four Loko is the new popular drink amongst college students. Four Loko is manufactured by Phusion Projects, a company started five years ago by three friends from Ohio State University. The brand name Four derives from its ingredients that include caffeine, taurine, guarana, and alcohol. Recently, the Four Loko has come under fire due to nationwide reports of the new drink hospitalizing some consumers. huevoicesdotcom's Bobby Marvin interviewed eight Morgan State University students for their take on Four Loko.

One-on-One with Koli Tengalla

Filmmaker and educator Koli Tengalla is a 2010 Baltimore Community Fellow awarded for his groundbreaking idea to form a youth theatre troupe to teach life skills and improve academic performance. This fellowship is made possible by Open Society Institute-Baltimore, a local branch of Open Society Foundations, an organization that grants exceptional individuals with thought provoking and transformational ideas for national and international communities.

One-on-One with Poncho Brown

Artist Poncho Brown talks about the business of being an artist with huevoicesdotcom's Bobby Marvin.

huevoicesdotcom @ Maryland Black Caucus Weekend 2010

Legislative Black Caucus of Maryland invited Maryland HBCU presidents to participate in an education workshop to discuss challenges facing African-American youth and adults in post-secondary education.


Morgan State University President Dr. David Wilson


Bowie State University President Dr. Mickey Burnim

huevoicesdotcom @ Nationwide On Your Side Tour with Tavis Smiley

Nationwide Insurance On Your Side Tour with Tavis Smiley held a workshop on financial literacy, wealth building and entrepreneurship in Baltimore Saturday at the Hilton Baltimore Hotel. This is a clip of the press conference with Tavis Smiley and Nationwide Insurance representatives prior to the workshop.

Walter Beasley & Friends

Come check out all that jazz with Walter Beasley & Friends Saturday, November 13th at The Forum Caterers.

huevoicesdotcom @ the 2010 Maryland Legislative Black Caucus Weekend

huevoicesdotcom covered the Maryland Black Caucus Foundation Annual Weekend 2010. The Maryland Black Caucus Foundation is the fundraising arm of the Legislative Black Caucus of Maryland, Inc., a non-profit organization focused on addressing the concerns of the Maryland African-American community.


One-on-One with Legislative Black Caucus of Maryland Chair State Senator Catherine Pugh of the 40th District.




One-on-One with Delegate-elect Mary Washington of the 43rd District

Bookz, Beatz, Braidz and Fades

Come participate workshops, network with local businesses and enjoy powerful performances by The Last Poets and The Love Peace Project at Bookz, Beatz, Braidz and Fades on Saturday, Nov, 20th at the Pikesville Armory.

huevoicesdotcom @ ULM Weight Loss Challenge

At age 74, Ernestine Shepherd is a professional body builder and professional trainer. She also a Guinness World Book record holder as the oldest female body builder over 70. Recently she participated in the Urban Lifestyle Magazine (ULM) Weight Loss Challenge hosted by Roderick C. Willis.




Warm-up with Ms. Shepherd



Meet Maija Anderson, Dean of Sojourner Douglass College School of Nursing. Anderson joined in the Weight Loss Challenge alongside her students and colleagues.

One-on-One with Donnie Manuel

Baltimore author Donnie Manuel makes his literary debut with Humdadao of Baltimore, a novel on love, redemption and family.

huevoicesdotcom @ Master of the Mix Viewing Party

Smirnoff sponsored the Masters of Mix Viewing Party at LUX Lounge in DC Wednesday night. Master of the Mix is a new reality series featuring seven( DJ Revolution, DJ Scratch, DJ Mars, DJ Jazzy Joyce, Rich Medina, DJ Rap and Vikter Duplaix) of the country's top DJs going at it in a fierce contest of talent and skills on the turntables. Super producer Just Blaze is the show host with legendary hip-hop DJ Kid Capri judging the competitions. The show premiered on Centric Wednesday night and will premiere on BET Networks Saturday 6Th at midnight.




The event included The District's own DJ RBI, DJ Furious Styles, DJ Jahsonic and MORE! huevoicesdotcom's Bobby Marvin interviewed WPWF's DJ RBI on his work, musical influences and Master of the Mix.

Please donate to Black Fathers' Radio

Launched by Matthew Prestbury, Black Fathers Radio aims to empower black men raising children through support, love and encourgment.

huevoicesdotcom @ Youth Justice Sunday rally

Public officials, faith base leaders, and youth and political advocates came out for Youth Justice Sunday, a rally and march against a new state being built for juvenile offenders being tried as adults.

Center for Urban Families host The Black Family Today and Beyond

Social empowerment organization Center for Urban Families will host The Black Family Today and Beyond: A Community Conversation on Strengthening Families. The event will include a panel discussions, networking reception and a keynote address by author Dr. Raymond Winbush.

bmorenews.com/huevoicesdotcom interview with Gov. Martin O'Malley

bmorenews.com publisher Doni Glover and huevoicesdotcom's Bobby Marvin partnered for an interview with Maryland Gov. Martin O'Malley. The Democratic incumbent discussed diversity and the current freeze on college tuition in the state of Maryland.

One-on-One with Hassan Giordano

Baltimore Independent Examiner columnist Hassan Giordano shares his analysis and commentary on the 2010 gubernatorial election.

One-on-One with Maria Allwine

2010 Gubernatorial Green Party candidate Maria Allwine shares her campaign platform and plans for the state of Maryland.

Youth Justice Sunday

Baltimore youth advocates take to the streets for a rally against the construction of a state correctional facility for juvenile offenders who are being tried as adults. The rally will be held Sunday, October 31 at 600 E. Monument St. 4pm-7pm.

One-on-One Eric Anthony

Baltimore bred actor Eric Anthony made inroads on and off Broadway for 10 years. In 2008 he took on L.A. to make his mark in film. Now he returns to Charm City for a performance as Scarecrow in The Wiz at CenterStage now until Nov 7.




Clip of Scarecrow(Anthony)

Stay Strong Dale!

Coppin State University student and All-American track star Dale Dunn was shot Tuesday night after a trip to the grocery story. Reports say Dunn is in critical but stable condition. My prayers are with Dale and his family doing this difficult time.

One-on-One with Zarifa Roberson

Zarifa Roberson was born with a disease called arthrogryposis multiplex congentia, a severe arthritis of her joints and muscles. Medical staff shortly informed her parents that she would not live pass a year.

Now at age 30, Roberson is moving and grooving with a Master's degree from Coppin State University and a flourishing career. An ambitious and vibrant spirit she decided to launch I.D.E.A.L. (Individuals with Disabilities Express About Life) Magazine to bring forth positive representation of young people living with disabilities. She takes the time to chat with huevoicesdotcom about National Disibilities Employment Awareness Month and her groundbreaking publication.

huevoicesdotcom @ Morgan State University's 2010 Homecoming

huevoicesdotcom captured sights and sounds of Morgan State University's 2010 Homecoming Game. Go MSU!

Shelley's Story

At age 27, Shelley Barnes is a two-time breast cancer survivor. She recently took the time to share her story with huevoicesdotcom. Please take a listen.




Shelley's Story Continued....

My Black Agenda AND Your Black Agenda (COMMENTARY)

There has always been a divide of ideology in Black America. W.E.B. Dubois felt the need to highlight the plight of blacks and agitate the confines of racial injustice, while Booker T. Washington preferred that blacks concentrate on making a way for ourselves and refrain from bucking the status quo. Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. preached peace and togetherness, while Malcolm X touted the need for self-preservation. Spike Lee's body of work depicted self-pride and honed in on police brutality. Tyler Perry has seen unprecedented success by conquering box-offices and creating a multi-million dollar business as Madea.

Needless to say, we won't always agree on how we should move forward, but it cannot be ignored or taken for granted that we do face issues today as a people. Funny enough, I've heard that we are not a monolithic group. Yet when it comes to poor health care, unemployment and high school drop-out reports we all seem to fall inline together. You can take the time to laugh, I'll wait....

The question of should there even be a Black Agenda has floated around as of late. My colleagues and I have exchanged passionate, constructive debate over the matter and my conclusion still stands. Given the history of black folks in America I can't recall a time when there wasn't a need for an agenda, even today. It is often ignored in media but the systematic racism and inequality is still too comfy in our society.

Please let me say that The Black Agenda is not based on the premise of exclusion but the need for empowerment. It is a plan and timetable set forth to recognize and improve critical areas within the black community. So, now that I have shared mine. What is Your Black Agenda?

One on One with Freddie Howard

Former publisher of the historic Afro American Newspaper recently died. Now former colleague and friend Freddie Howard opens up about Murphy and legendary sports writer Sam Lacy.

One on One with Pastor Jamal Bryant

Rev. Dr. Jamal Bryant, pastor of Empowerment Temple, talks about his work with the new TV One reality series K-Ci & Jo-Jo Come Clean.

Proper Identification Please! (commentary)

In my teen years, hip-hop had me in a whirlwind and I emulated rappers to no end. Yeah I was grateful to have good parents, but I didn't look up to them at the time. Instead, I looked up to cats like Wu-Tang Clan. I identified with the hoodies, Timberlands and the rebellious persona.

Which brings me to the reason why I decided to write this piece. A couple of weeks ago I found out on Twitter that Antoine Dodson was making an appearance at the BET Hip-Hop Awards.For those who aren't in tune with pop culture (don't worry I struggle myself), Antoine Dodson is the vivacious young man from Huntsville, Alabama who became an overnight Internet sensation after his colorful soundbite in a news story. According to the report, an unknown man climbed into his sister's bedroom window and allegedly tried to rape her. Following his classic act of buffoonery on the news an Internet meme entitled "Bed Intruder" was made out of the soundbite courtesy of The Gregory Brothers.



"Bed Intruder" managed to reach well over a million views and landed as a top rated R&B single on iTunes. And to top it off, every body's favorite Amos & Andy caricature made it to the big time-the 2010 BET Hip-Hop Awards-. Sorry, I'm not a fan of Dodson or the "Bed Intruder Song". It was buffoonery at its best and I honestly think the television news network demonstrated poor judgement.

Now I understand the power of media and how it can influence us all. Whether it is a movie trailer starring our favorite actor or a rally for Jena 6 broadcasted on Black radiu, We consume can even determine how we view ourselves. This becomes especially crucial when it involves the youth, who will gravitate to whomever they can identify with the most.

Please don't take this as a self-righteous attack on pop culture. Nor is it a sermon I prepared for the social network congregation. This is simply a message to be mindful of the images we uphold. Of course no one's perfect and we all fall short sometimes of good deeds, but let's not fall short of good character.

One one One with E. Raymond Brown

Filmmaker E.Raymond Brown sparks a new and daring conversation with his debut film Ghetto Physics. Along with co-director William Arntz, Brown explores the dynamics of high-powered entities that exploit. Using the archetypal psychology of pimps and prostitutes, Brown breaks down the social, political and economical constraints that he feels manipulates society.

One one One with Sharon G. Flake

Author Sharon G. Flake has garnered national attention for her youth fiction books that often sheds light on critical issues of today's youth. Her stories of confusion, despair and love brings a realistic tone rarely seen in literature for young African-Americans. Flake takes the time to talk about her work including her latest book You Don't Even Know Me.

huevoicesdotcom @ Thousand Women for O'Malley/Brown event

President Barack Obama' senior adviser Valerie Jarrett speaks at the Thousand Women for O'Malley/Brown/Mikulski. Jarrett came out to Martin's Camelot in Upper Marlboro to rally Democrat voters and show her support for Maryland Democrats in a crucial general election.

huevoicesdotcom interview with Axiom

huevoicesdotcom's interviews hip-hop/soul duo Axiom. Comprised of actor/emcee Black Root and singer/emcee Wordslave, Axiom has cut their teeth on Baltimore/Washington's open mic circuit and earned praise for their eclectic works like Heat Rises and Mindstate Mixtape. Now the group talks about their latest project It's A Mixtape and what's next to come.

huevoicesdotcom @ Soul Cannon/Axiom showcase

This is a clip of Hip-hop/alternative rock band Soul Cannon performing "Claps" at Club Reality on 10/10/10. The group shared the stage with the dynamic hip-hop duo Axiom. Be on the look out for an exclusive huevoicesdotcom interview with Soul Cannon upon the release of their new album The Mixed Ape.

huevoicedotcom @ Gov. Martin O' Malley rally with President Barack Obama

President Barack Obama speaking at Gov. Martin O'Malley rally held at Bowie State University.

One on One with Peter Allen

huevoicesdotcom's Bobby Marvin interviews Peter Allen, co-writer for the blockbuster film Takers.

huevoicesdotcom @ Blink Pink

Breast cancer survivors Sarita Murray and Zerita Ross host Blink Pink, a breast cancer awarness and survivor celebration. Segments include an interview with sponsor Zerita Ross and Maryland Lt. Gov. Anthony Brown.

huevoicesdotcom @ First Annual Mother-Son Dance

Urban Leadership Institute(ULI) sponsored the 1st Annual Mother-Son Dance: An Invitation to Manhood, an event aimed at celebrating and strengthening families. Over a dozen women along with their sons packed a banquet room at the Radisson Cross Keys. Hosted by David Miller,co-founder of ULI,the dance featured author/publisher Cassandra Mack and sports journalist Brian Custer.

The Mother-Dance is apart of the Raising Him Alone Campaign, an initiative set forth to empower single mothers raising young African-American males nationally and internationally. David Miller and youth advocate Matt Stevens recognized the overwhelming broken homes in urban settings and the need for services to support families. In 2009, the two launched the campaign honing in on single mothers. Since then, Miller has published a book component (Raising Him Alone) followed by a national tour of workshops and conferences.

One on One with Lydia Caesar

To help celebrate Gypsy Soul's 2nd Anniversary, Queens, New York native Lydia Caesar came through with a performance that commanded attention.Coined as a Rock N B singer for her blend of alternative rock and R&B, Caesar's stage presence exudes class often unseen in today's music realm. Her fashion sense is reminiscent of Whitney Houston in the 80's and her taste in music is not bad either. huevoicesdotcom's Bobby Marvin interviewed the dynamic songstress on growing up in a church, making it in New York and her latest project Masterpiece .

huevoicesdotcom @ Gypy Soul's 2nd Anniversary showcase

Gypsy Soul celebrated its 2nd anniversary. The company has drew notable attention for the maketing and branding of what they call "Responsible Music". In addition, Gypsy Soul's live entertainment showcase Ear Candy has featured critically acclaimed artists from across the country. huevoicesdotcom's Bobby Marvin interviewed Gypsy Soul founder Kayenecha Daugherty on their success and what's to come in the future.

Video includes snippet performances of Kenny Wesley and Green Tea.

One on One with Raheem DeVaughn

Grammy-nominated R&B singer Raheem DeVaughn tells huevoicesdotcom his views on the music business,the youth and politics.

One on One with Marshall "Eddie" Conway

Former Black Panther leader Marshall "Eddie" Conway led the Baltimore Chapter until he was convicted and sentenced to life for the murder of a police officer in 1970. Now he speaks with huevoicesdotcom on his case and new memoir Marshall Law.

One-on-One with Marshall "Eddie" Conway PART II

Conway speaks on the current state of Black America.

HBCU's: The Foundation We Need! (COMMENTARY)

I have often heard fierce criticism of HBCU's (Historically Black Colleges and Universities). Some go on and on about how the institutions are ineffective and poorly managed. Once I heard a parent, who is a graduate of a HBCU, say that he would rather send he would rather his children atten traditionally white institutions. Clearly, he was implying black schools are inferior to their white counterparts.

This type of thinking pains me because it is indicative of how we see ourselves in society. It is not just a case of not knowing our history, but shunning the lessons that we're taught. HBCU is not an acronym for lack of better words or a brand for marketing campaigns. It is our four letter thesis statement telling the world how we changed our stifling conditions and redefined our destiny.

They say if you teach a man how to fish, he will eat for a lifetime. Good people, we we established our own institutions not only for scholarly recognition, but to construct stronger and sustainable communities. Our predecessors knew education would make the difference in having a loaf of bread as opposed to just a slice.

Last week we celebrated HBCU's, TODAY we must continue the fight to keep them alive. As homicide and incarceration paralyzes our communities we must embrace our HBCU's as the pressure needed to convert coal into diamonds. Whether it is business, communications or health care, the potential for black wealth is present on black college campuses.

And wherever I may go I will let it be known, I am not a victim but a victor. I am a product of a HBCU.

huevoicesdotcom @ 4th Annual Recovery Rally & Walk

Dozens came out to Druid Hill Park to participate in the 4th Annual Recovery Rally and Walk, a platform to celebrate and encourage recovering drug and alcohol abusers and provide services for drug treatment.

The event coincides with National Alcohol and Drug Addiction Recovery Month in America and was sponsored by the Baltimore Substance Abuse Systems Inc. The Maryland Chapter- National Council on Alcoholism and Drug Dependence (NCADD-MD), Project Garrison Incorporated, and Gaudenzia.

State Senator Lisa Gladden and Maryland Attorney General Doug Gansler were present to show their support. Festivities included a talent show, free food and fun for the kids.

One on One with Larry Lancaster

Comedian Larry Lancaster talks about comedy, Reality Shows and making it in the entertainment business.

One on One with Phonte of The Foreign Exchange

huevoicesdotcom's Bobby Marvin caught up with Phonte of The Foreign Exchange at YahZarah's "Cry Over You" video shoot to talk about the Grammy-nominated group's new upcoming album Authenticity.

huevoicesdotcom @ YahZarah's "Cry Over You" video shoot

huevoicesdotcom's Bobby Marvin interviews independent artist YahZarah on site of her new video for "Cry Over You", the latest single off her fourth album The Ballad of Purple Saint James.

One-on-One with Taalam Acey

Spoken Word artist and author Taalam Acey has risen to become a prominent figure on the Spoken Word circuit nationally and internationally. His work has appeared on TV One and in the pages of Essence Magazine.

He has penned four books and released over a dozen Spoken Word albums, along with appearances in several documentaries including the critically acclaim What Black Men Think?
I had the opportunity to chat with Taalam about his new album The Birth of Spoken Soul and the state of Spoken Word.

One-on-One with Ky-Mani Marley

Grammy-nominated recording artist and film actor Ky-Mani Marley talks about memoir Dear Dear and growing up in the Jamaican royal family of reggae.

huevoicesdotcom @ the Reclaim the Dream March

*huevoicesdotcom was ONLY present for the rally*

National Action Network hosted the Reclaim the Dream rally and march to commemorate the 47th anniversary of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.'s historical March on Washington, D.C.

A swarm of people flooded the football field at Paul Lawrence Dunbar High School in northwest Washington, DC. Some folks came from across the country in caravans of coach buses and cars with family, friends, and in some cases strangers to march.

The event featured a wide variety of prominent civil rights figures including Marc Morial, president of the National Urban League, Ben Jealous, president of the NAACP and Dr. Barbara L. Shaw, Chair of the National Council of Negro Women.
U.S. Secretary Arne Duncan and Washington, D.C. City Council Chair Vincent Gray were also present to speak to the massive crowd.

huevoicesdotcom interviewed members from Youth in Action, a small youth organized group, traveled from Stone Mountain, Georgia to honor Dr. King's legacy in solidarity.

One-on-One with Rosalyn Branson of Turn Around, Inc.

In June, Baltimore Mayor Stephanie Rawlings-Blake and police commissioner Fred Bealfeld III announced a new hot line for survivors of rape/sexual assault through a partnership with Turn Around, Inc., a non-profit organization focused on helping survivors of domestic violence and sexual assault. This hot line was implemented following a story released by the Baltimore Sun detailing the Baltimore City Police Department's high record of rape cases deemed unfounded. Cases were considered unfounded when police officers concluded the victim was lying and/or the information given was baseless.
huevoicesdotcom interviewed Rosalyn Branson, executive director of Turn Around, Inc. to discuss the advocacy group and its work with the Baltimore Police Department.

huevoicesdotcom @ the Baltimore City State's Attorney Debate

The Vanguard Justice Society,Inc.,a non-profit group that works to assure inequality for minority officers within the Baltimore City Police Department, hosted a debate between incumbent Baltimore City State's Attorney Patricia Jessamy and challenger defense attorney Greg Bernstein. Violent crime in Baltimore City and the strained relationship between the Baltimore City State's Attorney office and the Baltimore City Police Department.

One-on-One with Green Tea (Ear Candy performance included)

Gypsy Soul,a multi-faceted company specializing in arts & entertainment, recently hosted Ear Candy, their special artist showcase featuring Washington, DC native Green Tea. The soulful songstress made her debut in 2005 with Have A Cup of Green Tea Dosage 1: Shades of Green followed by her sophomore album Dosage II: Choices in 2008. During that time she has opened up for Go-Go legend Chuck Brown, Fertile Ground and Kindred the Family Soul.

In this sit down interview Green Tea talks about her upcoming album, Bare Essentials and life as an independent artist.

One-on-One with Gabriel "Asheru" Benn

Educator and hip-hop artist Gabriel "Asheru" Benn talks about his work with H.E.L.P. (Hip-Hop Educational, Literacy, Program), District of Columbia Public School Chancellor Michelle Rhee and the state of Washington, DC school system.

A huevoicesdotcom Report: Angels Helping Angels 3rd Annual Back to School Drive/Community Clean-up

Angels Helping Angels, a non-profit organization that assist the homeless and disadvantaged neighborhoods in Baltimore, hosted a Back to School Drive and Community Clean-up.

Program director Curtis Black shared with me his stories growing up in this neighborhood. More so he shared his passion to change not only the physical landscape, but the lives of the people living there.

With the latest reports of random attacks of violence in Fells Point, the death of a young Johns Hopkins researcher, and finally the killing of a 70-year-old man for a scooter, this story is of great significance.

Black along with his mother and sister decided to take a stand and contribute to the GROWTH of their city. Angels Helping Angels does not have any corporate sponsors or government funding. They simply wanted to have a positive impact. Their collective effort was a kiddie bandage over a massive wound. But just imagine if we ALL pulled out a First Aid kit and got to work.

huevoicesdotcom @ Baltimore Music Festival 2010 (SOUNDCHECK)

Baltimore promoter Bilal Ali of Bilal Ali Productions will showcase the Baltimore Music Festival 2010, a two day (August 6&7) event featuring premier talent in jazz and soul music including soul artist Eric Roberson, jazz saxophonists Marcus Mitchell, Pamela Williams (who is shown playing the saxophone in the video clip), and Paul Taylor.
Ali says this year's "Giving back" theme is to honor community activist Cameron Miles of Mentoring Male Teens in the Hood along with others.

huevoicesdotcom @ 3rd Annual Park Heights Festival

Park Heights Renaissance, Inc.,an organization dedicated to the social and physical redevelopment of the Park Heights community located in Northwest Baltimore, hosted the Third Annual Park Heights Festival in conjunction with National Night Out 2010, an initiative set forth to promote crime awareness and police solidarity with communities across the country.


Blue and pink ribbons and balloons wrapped around street lights along the corridor of Park Heights Ave as music echoed throughout the streets. Community residents both young and elderly crowded into a parking lot at Pimlico Racetrack to enjoy the festivities.

Several programs including CFUF (center for urban families) were on-hand to offer their services. Public officials presented citations to community workers, while touting togetherness and collective responsibility.

A huevoicesdotcom Report: Rebuilding Together Baltimore helps a Park Heights family

Rebuilding Together Baltimore(formerly Christmas in April Baltimore), a non-profit organization that provides home renovation to low-income families across the city, recently lent a helping hand to a small family in the Park Heights community.

RTB team members along with community volunteers worked tirelessly to implement accessibility modifications to the home of Tavonia Randall, who cares for her 72-year-old disabled mother Gladys Cole. The home alterations will create a more safe living environment for Cole, a measure that will possibly prevent falls or other accidents from occuring.

Changes to the home included the widening of doorways, installation of a wheelchair lift and the beautifying of a playground for Randall's two grandchildren.

RTB now operates all year around and will assist eligible homeowners in Baltimore. This year they are set to repair and renovate homes for up to 60 homeowners.

So When is it Okay to be a Bigot?

Ah yes, racism. The steaming topic always gets America's blood boiling and is perfect cannon fodder for media pundits. It doesn't matter whether your on the side of an advocate for discriminatory practices, civil rights activists battling for equality, or even the middle man touting "Can't we all just get along!" Racism is always good for discussion.

People eat it up when the media brings it to the table. In 1984, Rev. Jesse Jackson said a mouthful during a "private" conversation with reporter Milton Coleman when he referred to Jews as "Hymies" and New York as "Hymietown".

Actor Mel Gibson's private dispute (well at least he thought it was private) with his former girlfriend will now and forever be infamous. Gibson used the "n*****" word in a heated conversation with his estranged girlfriend .

And in 2007 cable network A&E suspended production of the reality series "Dog the Bounty Hunter" after its star Duane "Dog" Chapman, made racist slurs during a private conversation with his son.

I was compelled to write this piece after examining the news of late and contemplating on the fact that bigotry, although dismissed in public, is some how given a pass in private conversations and settings.

I am not in the minds and hearts of these men previously mentioned. I won't go as far as saying they are racists or bigots soley based on these incidents. However, I will say their poor judgement stems from years of cultivated ignorance.

At one time or another in private a great deal of us have heard or said unpleasant comments about race in humor or anger. Yet, when we stepped out of our homes the next day we still gave a helping hand to any man/woman in need.

The belief should be that there is no place for biogtry....period. But are we really sincere about our desire to end racism if we spew madness in private and learn to hold our tongues only in public?

That does not eliminate ignornance, it only puts it to bed for another day for it to rise its ugly head.

Interview with Douglas Tirola

Interview with Malaika-Tamu Cooper @ Poets in the Park 2010

Malaika-Tamu Cooper is the organizer and sponsor of Poets in the Park, an annual festival held at Gwynn Oak Park in Baltimore County. The event features Hip-Hop/Spoken Word talent from across the country.

Child Support

(Thursday, July 8, 2010) Youth and youth advocates stood in front of City Hall demanding a meeting with Mayor Stephanie Rawlings-Blake and Governor Martin O'Malley to discuss investing in youth jobs.

Led by The Baltimore Algebra Project (BAP), a student ran organization comprised of Baltimore City youths, the small crowd gathered in the sweltering heat to make their voices heard. For months, the group along with other youth programs have clamored to be heard by public officials as jobs for youth decline while efforts to build more juvenile detention centers increased.


As a result, BAP claims public officials are perpetuating a vicious cycle where youth are led through the school-to-prison pipeline. According to BAP member Bryant Muldrew, there have been several attempts to reach out to the mayor's office but they were repeatedly ignored.


I can only described this as neglect on the behalf of state government and parents who stand idly by and do nothing. An epic failure in not only youth empowerment, but community development. A $100 million investment in a new juvenile facility is a denouncement of our future and an abandonment of our responsibilities.


People fail to realize this point because "Team Do Right" never had that many cheerleaders, so therefore it wasn't popular. I'm not going to get into bashing public official—even though some do deserve it—instead I will say that priorities and goals for Baltimore City are a little twisted. If we are to be serious about preparing city youth for success we need to place them in the position to do so. No, that position is not behind bars.


Don't get me wrong; juvenile offenders need to be held accountable for their actions. If a child picks up a gun and shoots someone, he needs to face the consequences. However, for kids that WANT to succeed there needs to be opportunities in place for them to do so. The agonizing fact is the streets of Baltimore offer plenty of opportunities.


If a kid wants to be a dope dealer, the door is wide open for him to flood the corners with it. I've been inside the classroom and I can honestly say we're fighting for their lives. We are competing for their respect and their attention; because once their attention shifts they are ONLY facing the edge of a cliff.