NAACP applauds women as leaders

Women’s contribution to the NAACP has been underscored by the dedicated service of historic figures like Mildred Bond Roxborough, Doris Adelaide Derby, Ruby Nell Sales, and many others.

The more than 100-year-old civil rights organization has witnessed women who have served integral roles in its history. Today, they still do.

During Women’s History Month, the NAACP began a national initiative to highlight some of its female executives in a campaign titled, “She Leads … I’ll Follow,” celebrating women leadership both past and present.

Among those in the spotlight are Jackie Patterson, who works in the environmental justice and climate change department. Lately, she’s been busy with a report that presents the findings

of many African Americans who’ve fallen victim to high-cost utility bills from private companies.

Dr. Marjorie Innocent, whose health department has been instrumental in assisting in the Flint, Michigan water crisis, also won praise from the NAACP and, Andrea Brown Gee, the vice president of strategic partnerships and planning for the civil rights organization who said she strongly believes the work of the NAACP remains timely and necessary.

“The NAACP continues to mobilize its membership in this millennium to combat racial disparities and inequities through direct action, legislation and other tactics as evidenced in the recent

opposition of Attorney General Jeff Sessions,” Gee said. “The NAACP is taking full advantage of activism through the use of digital strategies like Twitter, Facebook, and Instagram which makes our work progressive and appealing to a broad range of activists.”

Patterson says she sees her primary roles with the NAACP primarily as catalyst, pollinator and facilitator.

“We work with communities who are in deeply challenging circumstances with contaminated air, water, and land whose access to basic needs are severely compromised,” Patterson said. “My role as facilitator is to work with communities to strategize for change and then I’m blessed to bring those lessons to other communities in distress to pollinate with technical resources and act as a catalyst and facilitator of change.”

Ngozi Ndulue, the senior director of criminal justice programs and another woman of the NAACP, said her department works to ensure that the legal system remains fair for all.

“We want to make sure that people who do not need to be involved in the system aren’t involved so we’re working for police reform, to make sure that policing is not harming communities of color,” Ndulue said. “We also want to make sure that people who have been involved in the system have the opportunity to rebuild their lives, so we’re working for fair chance hiring to make sure that people with a criminal record have opportunities for employment.”

The story of the NAACP began on February 12, 1909, with a woman, according to its archives. A white journalist and women’s suffragist named Mary White Ovington joined with two

other activists to call for a national conference on the civil and political rights of African-Americans.

The ensuing conference was called the National Negro Committee, and it was soon renamed the National Association for the Advancement of Colored People, or NAACP.

Ovington served as the third chairman of the NAACP Board of Directors from 1919-1934, the highest position in the NAACP. She also served twice as executive secretary, then the highest position on the NAACP staff.

It is clear that from Ovington and up to today, women have and will continue to play a vital role in the organization “I felt it was necessary to highlight the talents and gifts of NAACP women who lead critical components of our work day in and day out during this Women’s History Month,” Gee said. “To showcase their work and the value of the NAACP during this time in history is paramount.”

Light City Returns to the Inner Harbor March 31-April 8

You are at Baltimore’s Inner Harbor, and see large goldfish swimming inside a car. You walk along a little further and now see lighted figures along the grass and amidst the water. You continue along your trek, and now see a huge illuminated cocoon emblazoned with colorful flowers. You are not seeing things. You are at Light City, the nation’s first large-scale light, music and innovation festival.

Presented by The Baltimore Office of Promotion & The Arts (BOPA), the electrifying festival returns for its second consecutive year, and runs Friday, March 31, 2017 through Saturday, April

8, 2017. Light City transforms Baltimore into an interactive playground of light art installations. The family-friendly event also includes concerts and performances.

Last year, the inaugural festival drew more than 400,000 visitors and generated $33.8 million in economic impact to Baltimore. Building on last year’s success, organizers promise that Light

City 2017 will be even bigger, bolder and brighter with brand new installations and experiences.

“If you liked last year, you will love this year,” said Kathy Hornig, festival director for the Baltimore Office of Promotion & The Arts. “We have worked hard over the past 12 months to ensure

than this year’s event is even bigger and brighter than last year’s event. We thought we would come out this year in an even more newer, brighter, and bolder way. This includes running the festival for nine nights, which will give people more time to enjoy the displays. One of the biggest things people requested was that the event be open more nights.”

The Baltimore Office of Promotion &The Arts is a 501 (c) (3) non-profit organization, which serves as Baltimore City’s arts council, events agency, and film office. By producing large-scale

events such as Light City, Artscape and the Baltimore Book Festival, and providing funding and support to artists, arts programs and organizations across the city, BOPA’s goal is to make Baltimore a more vibrant and creative city.

“Last year, the event also provided a big boost to the Inner Harbor from the huge crowds of tourists and citizens,” said Hornig. “Many of them had not visited the Inner Harbor in a while. Once again, the heart of the festival will be the BGE Light Art Walk. We will also be bringing back last year’s favorite exhibits.”

The BGE Light Art Walk, is a 1.5-mile trail along Baltimore’s Inner Harbor featuring illuminated artworks, performances, music, locally sourced food concepts, a children’s area and maker

tents. Of the 23 light installations on display, 21 are brand new to Light City with ten brand new commissions making their debut at the event.

The two “crowd favorites” that are returning for 2017 are The Peacock by Tim Scofield and Kyle Miller and The Pool [Reflect] by Jen Lewin. This year’s Light City also includes a new line-up of

performances and concerts, and nightly themed kickoffs called “Nightly Moments.”

Festivities include fireworks on the final night, parades, a themed food and beverage program, and Neighborhood Lights, an immersive community artistin- residence program that will feature light installations in eight Baltimore City neighborhoods, which includes Coldstream Homestead Montebello, Greater Mondawmin, and Sandtown-Winchester.

“There is so much talk about what divides us, but Light City is a great way to celebrate what connects us, and what we all have in common,” said Hornig. “Last year, folks met new friends and shared with others. They loved the art, and the concerts, but they really loved the vibe and positivity that was at the Inner Harbor.”

She added, “I am so excited. I can’t wait for everyone to see what we have put together. It’s like Christmas for me.”

For more information on Light City, call 410-752-8632. You can also visit www.lightcity.org for a listing of the

events and other details, and to download the Light City Baltimore App.

Author and activist donates 500 books to city schools

Baltimore— Baltimore author, activist and filmmaker Kevin Shird has donated, and personally delivered, 500

copies of his latest book, “Uprising in the City,” to five Baltimore City public schools.

The books were evenly distributed in classrooms at Frederick Douglas High School, Renaissance Academy High School, Baltimore Leadership School for Young Women, Achievement Academy at Harbor City High School, and Baltimore City College. The books will be used for various purposes, including classroom study, reading assignments and other ongoing initiatives.

“Uprising in the City,” which was released in August of 2016, takes a scholarly look at the various factors

that contributed to the unrest that hit Baltimore’s streets in 2015 shortly after the death of Freddie Gray, who

died as a result of injuries sustained while in the custody of Baltimore City Police. The donation comes shortly before the anniversary of the riots next month. Shird says he donated the books because he feels it’s important for Baltimore City students to understand the various historical and social factors that contributed to the demonstrations and riots.

“When I wrote this book, I approached it as a student of history,” said the self-published author. “The death

of Freddie Gray was an unnecessary tragedy but that was more of a catalyst than a cause for the outpouring

of frustration and anger that we saw two years ago. There are issues in this city going back over 30 years

that are far more responsible, and I think it’s important for students to understand that, because eventually it’s going to be on them to address those problems and try and make it better.”

Shird’s previous book,”Lessons of Redemption” has reached o acclaim as an international best seller.

He has long been an outspoken advocate for education and Baltimore’s youth. Although he spends a considerable amount of time conducting speaking engagements at colleges and universities around the

country, students in Baltimore are near and dear to him.

As part of his donation, Shird is also personally sponsoring an essay contest with a prize of $500. Details of

the contest will be announced soon, and the winner will be chosen and announced later this year.

For more information about Kevin Shird, visit: www.kevinshird.com

Honoring Trailblazing Women in Labor and Business

Women have successfully challenged the role they play in both business and the paid labor force. Women have proven that they can be successful in every field.

Women have always worked but often their work has been undervalued, underpaid or unpaid. As labor, business leaders and innovators, women defied the social norms of our times by demonstrating their ability to create organizations and establish their own businesses that paved the way for better working conditions and wages for themselves and future generations of women.

This year’s theme for National Women’s History Month, “Honoring trailblazing Women in Labor and Business,”recognizes women’s contributions to the workforce. The five women highlighted in this article are examples of trailblazers who have accepted opportunities and overcome obstacles to become successful in their chosen career paths.

In addition, they are passionate about their role in mentoring and encouraging young people, especially girls to excel. The honorees are: Dr. Denise Beach Davis, podiatrist and surgeon; Elizabeth S. Glenn, retired Baltimore County administrator; Dr. Jocelyn Gainers, entrepreneur and addictions counselor; Karen Gibbs, founder of the Gibbs Perspective and business TV anchor; and Donna Stevenson Robinson, president and CEO of Early Morning Software.

With the encouragement of her mentor, Dr. Denise Beach Davis, chose to consider podiatry.

“I was happy to [enter] a profession that was Jewish male dominated for so many years. Today, we have many minorities in the profession. I am glad to have considered this career path,” said Beach Davis, explaining that as a woman in podiatry, she had to prove that she added value to most patient circumstances, especially in the operating room.

Beach Davis believes in the importance of mentoring young women to help them to develop the confidence, self worth and determination that will enable them to become whatever they choose. She encourages youth to excel beyond their comfort zone in order to maximize their potential.

Another trailblazer, is gifted artist and fashion designer Elizabeth S. Glenn who retired from the Baltimore County government as deputy director of planning. Glenn worked with the County administration to increase funding and programming for the homeless. She administered community planning and development programs such as sustainable development and affordable, accessible housing units, both rental and home-ownership. These efforts helped hundreds of people to obtain permanent housing upon exiting Baltimore County shelters.

Described as a high-energy trainer and consultant for human service programs, Dr. Jocelyn Gainers is the CEO of the Family Recovery Program, Inc. located in Baltimore City. The program aims to reach substance abusing parents who have children ages 0-10 years entering foster care for the first time, with the intention of engaging parents in substance use treatment,reunifying families, and avoiding subsequent mal- treatment.

As a certified addictions counselor with expertise in working with adolescents, adults and couples in both group and individual settings, Dr. Gainers said, “The work of the Family Recovery Program exists for parents in times of challenge and controversy and as an organization, it chooses to be motivated by the desire to create good outcomes for the families that they serve.

Karen Gibbs is president and founder of The Gibbs Perspective, a company concerned with financial literacy/capability and investor education. She is a veteran business television anchor and correspondent. A noted speaker and moderator, Gibbs is now the financial expert for the Maryland Public Television’s

Smart Thinking for Your Money campaign. Most recently she was a contributor to PBS’ Nightly Business Report and a host for the Moneyshow.com Video Network.

“Once money took over as the world’s largest commodity, I rode the wave of financial futures from treasuries and mortgages, foreign currencies, stock index futures and options,” said Gibbs, who

believes it’s imperative to nurture and encourage anyone who wants to further their education, work in corporate America or start their own business.

Donna Stevenson Robinson is President and co-founder of Early Morning Software, Inc., a software manufacturer of the flagship Contract Compliance and Supplier Diversity Management solution, PRISMCompliance.com.

Stevenson’s introduction to the possibility of a career in Information Technology (IT) was spawned at a college career fair and later job fair where she met personel from her first employer, IBM. Stevenson

learned and developed as an IT/Project Management professional, which prepared her for entrepreneurship. The biggest challenge has been accessing funding and earning the respect as a national software manufacturer.

“Today, I seek champions, rather than mentors for our business vision and creating economic development outcomes that are derived by having procurement and compliance practices managed by the PRISMCompliance.com system,” Stevenson said.

Baltimore’s own LABBODIES will Shine at Light City

LABBODIES is a performance art laboratory based in Baltimore, Maryland, that provides a format for artists working in the arena of performance art to exhibit their work. LABBODIES will be among the artists whose light art installations will ‘shine’ during this year’s Light City festival, which returns to Baltimore’s Inner Harbor Friday, March 31, 2017 through Saturday, April 8, 2017.

Light City is sponsored by The Baltimore Office of Promotion & The Arts (BOPA), and is a free public festival that redefines what is possible in the public realm by transforming Baltimore into an

interactive playground of light art installations and entertainment.

LABBODIES will present Light Happenings II, a site-specific installation and performance program by lead artists Hoesy Corona and Ada Pinkston, who are also LABBODIES founding co-directors. The project examines devastating moments in history and their relationship to contemporary acts of violence in the United States.

“Large-scale art projects often solicit proposals from individuals or teams that already have a history of working in similar capacities,” said Corona. “We are elated, in our short careers, to have

the opportunity to carry out such an ambitious commission. It is the most significant one for us so far, and we hope to create a path toward the sustainable production of future large-scale projects.”

According to Corona and Pinkston, Light Happenings II takes into account the complex history and public art found on and around the installation site. Particularly considering the Civil War trail and the 9/11 World Trade Center Memorial, as well as acknowledging the role that the Inner Harbor port served in the transatlantic slave trade— where “between 1815 and 1860, traders in Baltimore made the port one of the leading disembarkation points for ships carrying slaves to New Orleans and other ports in the deep South”.

“In the face of such earthly horrors, we ask the question: What Gives You Light?” said Corona and Pinkston.

The installation consists of three structures using steel, Plexiglas, paint, vinyl, LED lights, projections and video. The interactive installation will include audience participation and live performances by regional and national performance artists. Both Pinkston and Hoesy will be among the performance artists, which will also include Alexander D’Agostino (Baltimore), Nicoletta De La Brown (Baltimore), Ayana Evans (New York), Bobby English Jr. (California), and Tsedaye MaKonnen (Washington, DC).

“Baltimore has a very rich cultural history and contemporary art scene,” said Corona. “It combines affordable studio spaces with the very hard work of local arts organizers, many of whom are also artists. They take on roles missing from the creative ecosystem, often as curators, directors, gallerists, publicists, journalists and other generalists. We are particularly interested in the dynamic work being produced by artists and organizers of color, as well as women artists”. Pinkston added, “Baltimore’s cultural scene is incredibly unique and vibrant.

Even though there are silos, extreme segregation, and gentrification, the city and the artistic community are resilient and refuse to be ignored.”

Corona and Hoesy founded LABBODIES in January 2014 and have since produced more than 29 original events, ranging from public commission, solo/group gallery shows to museum performance events. Ashley Dehoyos recently joined the team as a program manager.

In 2015 they launched the annual Labbodies Performance Art Review (Borders Boundaries and Barricades) to highlight the growing regional performance art community.

LABBODIES has also been commissioned by The Walters Art Museum, Station North Arts and Entertainment District, Art in Odd Places located in Orlando,FL and several others.

“Large scale events such as Light City and Artscape give many local artists in the city opportunities to work on temporary public art commissions,” said Pinkston. “Through Light Happenings

Part II, we have been able to hire and collaborate with many artists outside of our network. Light City also positions Baltimore’s artists in an international conversation around contemporary art and technology.”

For more information about LABBODIES visit www.labbodies.com

HBCU Round-Up: MEAC Track & Field Weekly Honors

Coppin State’s Joseph Amoah and North Carolina Central’s Bethany White were selected as the Mid-Eastern Athletic Conference (MEAC) Men’s and Women’s Track Athletes of the Week. Michael Tiller, of Bethune-Cookman, and teammate Catoria Sirmon, were named the MEAC Men’s and Women’s Field Athletes of the Week, the conference announced today.

Amoah (Fr., Greater Accra, Ghana) won the 200-meter dash, at the Weems Baskin Invitational, with a time of 20.48 seconds. His time currently leads the MEAC and ranks third nationally. Amoah also finished 10th in the 400 (48.19).

White (So., Gaithersburg, Md.) ran the fastest time in the MEAC this season in the 100-meter dash with a time of 11.84 seconds, at the Raleigh Relays. Her finish in the event earned her a second-place finish. White also took second place in the 200, with a time of 24.46 seconds and currently ranks second in the MEAC.

Tiller (Sr., Tampa, Fla.) took first place, at the Hurricane Collegiate Invitational, in the triple jump with a distance of 15.98 meters (52-5.25 feet). He holds the top jump in the nation and MEAC as a result. Tiller also competed in the javelin throw (43.19m) and the high jump (1.90m), placing sixth in both events.

Sirmon (Sr., Fort Myers, Fla.) set a new personal record in the shot put at the Hurricane Collegiate Invitational. Her distance of 15.22 meters earned her third place at the meet. Sirmon currently ranks 34th nationally and first in the MEAC.

Other Top Performers

Deja Davis (B-CU) finished sixth, at the Hurricane Collegiate Invitational, in the 3,000-meter run with a time of 10:13.86.

Daniel Kiptoo (B-CU) registered a fourth-place finish in the 3,000 with a time of 8:49.65, at the Hurricane Collegiate Invitational.

Kristen Deacon (CSU) placed second in the discus throw with a distance of 39.64 meters, at the Weems Baskin Invitational.

Sierra Adams (MDES) broke the school record in the hammer throw, at the UTEP Springtime Meet, with a distance of 43.60 meters.

Noah Agwu (MDES) set personal records in the discus throw (49.93m) and the hammer throw (43.30m) at the UTEP Springtime Meet.

Joshua Dacres (MDES) qualified for the MEAC Outdoor Track and Field Championship and set a personal record in the 100-meter dash (10.78).

Lenneisha Gilbert (MDES) earned qualification to the ECAC and MEAC Outdoor Championships after running the 400 in 55.85 seconds.

Joel Roberson (MSU) sprinted to a first-place finish in the 400-meter dash, clocking a season-best time of 47.03 seconds. The Laurel (Md.) native now has the fastest mark in the MEAC and currently ranks No. 23 in the nation. Roberson was part of the men’s 4×100-meter relay team that raced to a sixth-place finish in the event with a season-best time of 41.15 seconds.

Jaylen Banks (NSU) posted personal-best times in the 400-meter hurdles (53.43) and the 400 (47.92) at the Fred Hardy Invitational.

Taejah Robertson (NSU) clocked a season-best time in the 100-meter hurdles (14.20) to win the event.

Garth Warner (NSU) recorded a first-place finish, at the Fred Hardy Invitational, in the high jump with a leap of 2.00 meters.

Nigel Brown (SSU) took third place in the 200, with a time of 20.93, at the Weems Baskin Invitational.

LaRon James (SSU) set a new school record in the long jump with a distance of 7.43 meters.

Tyneshai Quarterman (SSU) recorded the third-fastest time in the MEAC, with a time of 55.62 in the 400.

Waterfront Partnership and Medifast® Bring Free Fitness Classes Back to the Inner Harbor

Waterfront Wellness Series returns to the Baltimore Waterfront starting May 27th

The Waterfront Partnership of Baltimore and Medifast, Inc. are teaming up once again for the annual Waterfront Wellness series. Returning May 27, 2017, the series offers free fitness classes four days a week along the waterfront throughout the spring and summer seasons.

“The Waterfront Wellness series is one of our most popular initiatives,” said Laurie Schwartz, president of Waterfront Partnership. “It continues to grow in popularity as more and more people seek unique and affordable health and wellness opportunities.”

Waterfront Wellness classes will take place every Saturday and Sunday at West Shore Park, every Wednesday at Pierce’s Park, and newly added Thursday classes at Harbor Point through September 17. Confirmed classes include:

· Boot Camp, by XPF Studio

· Yoga, by CorePower Yoga

· Dance2Fitness, by XPF Studio

· Yoga, by YogaWorks

· Cross Fit, by CrossFit Federal Hill

· Yoga, by Brick Bodies

Participants of all skill levels are welcome and should bring their own mats and water. Classes are free but a one-time registration is required. For more information and to register for classes, please visit: http://bit.ly/WaterfrontWellness17.

About Medifast®:

Medifast (NYSE: MED) is the leading easy-to-use provider of clinically proven weight-loss and healthy living products and programs. Medifast aims to help customers lead a healthier lifestyle through a holistic approach to weight-loss and weight management. Medifast’s proven results are based on the use of structured meal plans featuring Medifast Meals, which are nutritionally designed to assist customers with successful weight-loss and weight management. Medifast was founded in 1980 and is located in Owings Mills, Maryland. For more information, log onto www.MedifastNow.com.

About Waterfront Partnership of Baltimore

Waterfront Partnership is the proud steward of Baltimore’s crown jewel, its Inner Harbor and Waterfront. We’re lean, nimble and effective; the only organization that wakes up every day, rolls its sleeves up and gets to work on new ways we can make Baltimore’s Waterfront even more active, attractive and appealing. We’re the hosts who greet visitors, the creators of programs and promotions and managers of our beautiful parks. We encourage investment in Baltimore’s most celebrated asset so it can continue to grow, to serves as a place of pride and the place where Baltimoreans come together to recreate and to celebrate. For more information, visit www.waterfrontpartnership.org.

HBCU Round-up: SWAC Baseball Recaps

2 Texas Tech 14, Texas Southern 7

BOX SCORE

LUBBOCK, Texas – Texas Southern fell, 14-7, to #2 Texas Tech on Wednesday.

The Tigers kept the game close early on. Texas Southern would get one run in the first, and would trail 4-1 after the third inning. The Tigers would get two of its three runs on walks with the bases loaded.

The Tigers would get two more runs in the seventh, Gerrick Jimenez would hit a two run double in the frame. However, the Tigers would not be able to stage a comeback, leading to the loss.

Richard Alamo would go 2 for 4 with 3 RBIs, to pace the Tigers in the loss.

Alabama State 6, Florida A&M 5

BOX SCORE

TALLAHASSEE, Fla. – A late run in the seventh inning, was enough to lift Alabama State past Glorida A&M, 6-5 on Wednesday.

The Hornets would trail early, 2-1 after the second inning. The game would be scoreless until the sixth inning, when Alabama State woud get four runs, in part thanks to a two RBI double by Chris Biocic. Florida A&M would get three runs in the bottom half of the sixth, to make the score tied at 5-5.

Carlos Ocasio would hit an RBI double in the seventh, which would be enough to give the Hornets the win.

Ocasio went 3 for 5 with one RBI and one run scored in the win.

Nicholls State 7, Alcorn State 6

BOX SCORE

THIBODAUX, La. – Three runs given up in the ninth caused Alcorn State to fall, 7-6 toNicholls State on Wednesday.

The Braves would jump out to a 4-0 lead, scoring four runs in the second inning. Rios Jimenez hit a 2 RBI single to contribute two runs in the frame.

The Braves would add one run in the third, and another in the eighth, to make the score 6-4 heading into the ninth. Alcorn State would give up three runs in that frame, to fall to Nicholls in the contest.

Rios Jimenez went 4 for 5 with three RBIs in the loss for the Braves.

Morehead State 12, Alabama A&M 2

BOX SCORE

MOREHEAD, Ky. – Brandon Marsonek took over the NCAA lead in strikeouts Wednesday but the Bulldogs dropped a 12-2 decision at Morehead State.

The senior lefthander pitched in the eighth inning – his national leading 21st mound appearance – and struck out two batters to give him 64 strikeouts this season, one more than JP Sears of The Citadel.

The Bulldogs scored first Wednesday after Carson McGregory led off the second inning with a double down the rightfield line. Kyle Redmond hit a two-out single up the middle to score McGregory.

Morehead State, though, answered with three runs in the bottom of the inning for a 3-1 lead.

However, A&M replied with a run in the top of the third.

Dalton Mitchell worked a one-out walk and then moved to second when Wilander Betancourt reached on an error. Zeth Malcom singled up the middle to drive home Mitchell and cut the Morehead State lead to 3-2.

But, that was all A&M would score in the game.

The Bulldogs are home this weekend in a key SWAC Eastern Division series with Jackson State.

A&M is 5-4 in the division, one game behind the second-place Tigers at 6-3. Alabama State is in first at 7-2.

Courtesy of Alabama A&M Sports Information

Northrop Grumman opens a Cyber Security program at Coppin State University

BALTIMORE,Md. — Northrop Grumman kicks off Cyber Warrior Diversity program at Coppin State

Northrop Grumman Corporation and Baltimore-based tech company, Digit All City entered into an agreement with the Department of Defense Mentor-Protégé program to offer cyber security at Coppin State University.

The Cyber Warrior Diversity Program is designed to address three areas of concern.

Coppin State students pursing degrees in tech fields will work toward the additional certifications required by the Department of Defense for cybersecurity work. The Mentor-Protégé agreement between the three entities will increase the number of skilled African American cyber security graduates in a field that is experiencing “a shortfall in the number of qualified individuals.” Graduates of the program who meet certain criteria will be offered employment opportunities with Northrop Grumman.

“Northrop Grumman is pleased to be able to transfer know-how and experience to Digit All City and Historically Black Colleges and Universities so they can grow and develop a community of cyber warriors that will help protect our nation from cybersecurity threats,” Jaime Bohnke, vice president for global supply chain, Northrop Grumman Corporation, said in a statement released earlier this month.

Digit All City (DAC) founders, Lance Lucas and Joseph Sutton have a long history of offering opportunities in technology. For nearly two decades, DAC’s parent company, Digit All Systems, has been “bridging the digital divide and bringing the benefits of expanding technology to everyone,” according to the company’s website.

The kick-off for Coppin State University’s program is scheduled to take place Thursday, March 30, 2017 at 3:00p.m.in the Health and Human Services Building in room 120.

A signing ceremony among all of entities took place at Morgan State University who is also a partner in the cyber security mentor-protégé program.

Exciting Line Up of Panels and Workshops for Annapolis Film Festival

ANNAPOLIS, Md. — An exciting line up of panels and workshops to appeal to both the general public and the industry technician is scheduled for the Annapolis Film Festival, March 30 to April 2. These events are being held in a number of locations on different days and times so please check the website at www.annapolisfilmfestival.com for information about times and purchasing tickets.

HOW TO MAKE A GREAT SHORT FILM

FRIDAY, 3/31 | O’CALLAGHAN | 10:30 AM–11:30 AM

There are more reasons than ever to make a short film — a calling card for an aspiring director, a proof-of-concept exercise for a creative team, an opportunity to build a team of like-minded creatives — but how can you build a foolproof story structure and immersive production values? Upon what merits will festivals, distributors, and investors appraise your film? What’s that critical step that takes a good short film to a great one? Find out more here.

MODERATOR: Mimi Edmunds | Producer, Former CBS Producer, Former Director of the Maine Workshops and Professor Emeritus at Emerson College

PANELISTS:

John Fortson | Director, RATED

Laura Seay | Director, SPEAK

Reed Van Dyk | Director, DEKALB ELEMENTARY

RELEASING YOUR FILM: DIGITAL DISTRIBUTION

FRIDAY, 3/31 | O’CALLAGHAN | 12:00 PM–1:00 PM

There’s no one model for the trajectory of a feature film’s release. In this age of Netflix , YouTube, and Vimeo, what’s the best marketing strategy to ensure a successful release? How can enterprising filmmakers get the edge on digital distribution by capitalizing on social media and search engine optimization? Find the best release strategy and marketing plans and why audience awards matter to distributors.

MODERATOR: EMIL GALLINA, Producer, Former Executive Producer at Discovery, WNAV Radio Host

PANELISTS:

Phil Hudson | Rook SEO

Missy Laney | Film Releasing Strategist

Zach Reeder | Electric Distribution, Domestic Distribution

THE NEW DOCUMENTARIANS

FRIDAY, 3/31 | O’CALLAGHAN | 1:30 PM–2:30 PM

Since the turn of the new millennium, the documentary has made a spectacular rise as an entertainment medium. As such, the very concept of what a documentary is, what it means, and what it promises to a viewing audience remains in constant flux. Cinematic storytelling techniques are being seen more and more in journalism, short films, and other media. How does this impact how the story is received? What gear and techniques are used to make the story vibrant, visual and compelling?

MODERATOR: MIMI EDMUNDS, Producer, Former CBS Producer, Former Director of the Maine Workshops and Professor Emeritus at Emerson College

MODERATOR:

Ashley Bloom Kenny | Senior Producer, The Atlantic

PANELISTS:

James Burns | Filmmaker, VICE Media

Dana Flor | Co-Director, CHECK IT

Hermann Vaske | Director, DENNIS HOPPER: UNEASY RIDER

Paul Wolansky | Producer, BREAKING POINT: THE BATTLE FOR DEMOCRACY IN UKRAINE

THE TRUTH ABOUT PRODUCERS & DIRECTORS

SATURDAY, 4/1 | ST. JOHN’S CONVERSATION ROOM| 10:30 AM–11:30 AM

As long as there has been a motion picture industry, there have been producers and directors collaborating — and clashing. When artistic vision meets the hard-and-fast reality of production, sparks are bound to fly. What defines their roles, their challenges and desires? This dance is often a love-hate relationship held together by money, passion, and mutual respect. When it works, it’s movie magic.

MODERATOR: JOE NEUMAIER, AFF Advisory Board, WOR Film Critic

PANEL:

Ruth Du | Producer, THE ARCHER

Jordan Roberts | Director, BURN YOUR MAPS

Wayne Rogers | Producer, WIND RIVER and AFF Advisory Board

Matt Spicer | Director, INGRID GOES WEST

Tim White | Producer, INGRID GOES WEST and LBJ

Trevor White | Producer, INGRID GOES WEST and LBJ

THE KID STAYS IN THE PICTURE

SATURDAY, 4/1 | ANNAPOLIS ELEMENTARY SCHOOL CAFETERIA| 10:30 AM-11:30 AM

Whether getting their big break in commercials, films, or theater, the youngest performers of the Annapolis Film Festival are making strides in the industry. How do these young actors balance their professional ambition with their personal growth? Does an on-set tutor compare to a homeroom teacher? Is it difficult to take direction from A-list filmmakers? Come get to know these performers as they make their mark on the big screen.

MODERATOR: Casey Baum | Student and Actor, CHEMISTRY 101 and META

PANELISTS:

Jillian Lebling | Actor, SLEEPTALKER, BRIDGE OF SPIES, THE BLACK LIST

Anthony Gonzalez | Actor, ICEBOX, COCO

Max Page | Actor, NO STRANGER PILGRIMS, THE YOUNG & THE RESTLESS, SECRET SUMMER

WRITING THE HUMAN EXPERIENCE (ACROSS FILM, TELEVISION, AND NEW MEDIA)

Presented by WeScreenplay

SATURDAY, 4/1 | ST. JOHN’S CONVERSATION ROOM| 12:00 PM-1:30 PM

As a structural document, a script informs nearly every element of a film or television project — the performances, the production design, the scoring…That’s no small feat, given the sky-high stakes of the entertainment industry. But what of modern writers and the ever-present demand for truthful, dynamic onscreen representation? How can the complexities and conundrums of an individual existence be conveyed with authenticity on the page? What can be done to challenge conventions and avoid stagnant storytelling with the boom of scripted new media? Join us to delve into the act of committing character to paper — how are these creations inspired, shephered, and expanded over the course of production?

MODERATOR: Emily Dell | Screencraft

PANEL:

Melissa Carter | Executive Producer, QUEEN SUGAR

Jordan Roberts | Director and Writer, BURN YOUR MAPS

Tanya Saracho | Writer, HOW TO GET AWAY WITH MURDER

Matt Spicer | Director and Writer, INGRID GOES WEST

FILM FATALES and WIFV present: VOICES AND VISION

Sunday, 4/2 | ST. JOHN’S CONVERSATION ROOM | 12:00 PM -1:30 PM

Always formidable, often overlooked, the behavior and cultural contributions of women have never been under more scrutiny. Bona fide “nasty women” and newly raised voices alike have an edge and authenticity in their storytelling and filmmaking that cannot be replaced or replicated. In 2017, how can we create a persistent, intersectional movement for change in the film industry?

MODERATOR: Melissa Houghton, Executive Director of WIFV DC

PANEL:

Melissa Carter | Executive Producer, QUEEN SUGAR

Ruth Du | Producer, THE ARCHER

Ferne Pearlstein | Director, THE LAST LAUGH

Tanya Saracho | Writer, HOW TO GET AWAY WITH MURDER

TECH TALK | FUTURE TECH

Friday, 3/31 | Loews Annapolis Hotel, Powerhouse, Second Floor, 2:00-4:00 PM

Presented by Nimble Storage

Co-Sponsored by Alpha Engineering & Mindgrub

Explore and learn about new innovations in Virtual Reality, “self-driving” storage systems and how mass quantities of the 300 million social media data and messages created daily can enhance our American lives with important financial advantages, security, and breaking news alerts around the globe.

Hear new and innovative tech paradigms and new applications of social media content, virtual reality and its future, and storage and transmission of media content worldwide from research and actionable information and response gurus, storage experts, and VR professionals. Bill Heffelfinger, Senior Director of Technical Marketing Engineering for Nimble Storage, will speak about “self-driving” technology infrastructure.

Join us for a lively keynote address from Peter Bailey, Chief Strategy Officer of Dataminr.

Dataminr transforms the Twitter stream and other public databases into actionable alerts, providing must-know information in real-time for clients in finance, the public sector, news, corporate security, and crisis management. Dataminr is recognized by CNBC as “one of the most disruptive private companies in the world.”

Tickets cost from $12.50 for a single screening or panel to $125.00 for a general festival pass. The pass includes the Opening Night Film and After Party and unlimited films and panels for four days. Student and senior tickets are $10.00. Day Passes are $40.00 each and Student Passes are $50.00 for all four days.

Passes and individual tickets can be obtained from www.annapolisfilmfestival.com. Check the website for times and locations of all events and screenings. Up-to-the minute changes in schedule can be followed on the AFF Facebook Fanpage and Twitter. Use the “Subscribe to Updates” button on the site to receive regular email updates.