Search Results

PUBLISHED: February 25, 2024 | www.baltimoresun.com Every now and then, the American people need an escape from things — an escape from politics, an escape from the sadness that plagues our world. For most Americans, that escape comes in the form of television, movies and sports. Yet, for some, they find their escape in the art of ballet. Ballet is a form of performance art that has its roots in 15th and 16th century Italy and France as entertainment at weddings. Ballet traces its name to Ballare, meaning “to dance” in Italian. Ballet took its modern-day form in 17th century France under Louis XIV, who established its performance-art-focused form, using it for political purposes to maintain social control of the people. “Swan Lake” is a ballet unlike any other. Composed by Russian composer Pyotr Ilyich Tchaikovsky from 1875-1876, it has become one of the most popular ballets of all time. Today, it stars the astounding Herman Cornejo. The sold-out show at the John F. Kennedy Center for the Performing Arts in Washington, D.C., tells the tale of Princess Odette, who is turned into a swan by an evil sorcerer. The ballet is breathtaking, with its lead showcasing the pinnacle of ballet talent. “This production was made in 2000,” Cornejo told me, “So I’ve been in this production for 24 years.” Growing up in Buenos Aires, Argentina, Herman Cornejo took up ballet after seeing his sister’s love for it. “My sister, she started ballet before me. I followed her and I just loved it. I had a talent for dance. In a way, I felt it was easy for me and it gave me joy and just kept going.” Since then, Herman Cornejo has had a storied career, appearing in ballets such as “A Midsummer Night’s Dream,” “Romeo and Juliet,” and Ratmansky’s “Symphony No. 9.” These performances have earned him top accolades in ballet. Today, Herman Cornejo is known as one of the best ballet dancers in the world. His longest-running act, “Swan Lake” has seen major success in D.C. “We usually have sold-out shows, but never for a whole week,” Cornejo said. “This makes me very excited.” The performance was a work of balletic art that completely captivated me with its graceful movements. It sincerely deserves the extensive acclaim that it has garnered. This performance demonstrated that ballet is not dead; on the contrary, it is flourishing and should be experienced by every American. “It’s been my dream since I was little … I do these lead roles and I don’t get tired of it. Our reward is when the people enjoy the show. Every show you come out different and you come out better.” Armstrong Williams (www.armstrongwilliams.com; @arightside) is a political analyst, syndicated columnist and owner of the broadcasting company, Howard Stirk Holdings. He is also part owner of The Baltimore Sun.

PUBLISHED: February 20, 2024 | www.baltimoresun.com Armstrong Williams, left, talks Monday with Gov. Wes Moore, about juvenile justice in Maryland at a forum livestreamed from WBFF-TV in Baltimore. (Lloyd Fox/Staff) Gov. Wes Moore, Prince George’s County State’s Attorney Aisha Braveboy and Baltimore State’s Attorney Ivan Bates vowed during a forum Monday night to hold juvenile offenders accountable while promising to pursue expanded services for young people in trouble, with the governor reiterating plans to spend more and hire more staff to address problems in juvenile services. A rise in certain crimes — such as car thefts, carjackings and gun charges — among Maryland youth is at the forefront of policymakers’ and lawmakers’ minds during the current General Assembly session. “I will have a bill that will hit my desk by the end of session that will focus on accountability — not just for the children, but accountability for the systems whose job it is to make sure that our children get the rehabilitation they need,” Moore, a Democrat, said during the “Your Voice, Your Future” panel on juvenile justice. Armstrong Williams, a co-owner of The Baltimore Sun, hosted the forum, which was livestreamed from WBFF-TV in Baltimore. According to Bates, Baltimore saw 87 vehicle theft charges in 2022. In 2023, that number ballooned to 216 charged “and over 250 arrested,” he said, demonstrating a rapid increase in car thefts in the city. Moore noted that he stood alongside House Speaker Adrienne A. Jones and Senate President Bill Ferguson, both Democrats, earlier this session when they introduced a multifaceted piece of legislation that aims to stem juvenile crime and hold state and local systems that interface with children to account. House and Senate committees heard testimony on the legislation earlier this month. Bates and Braveboy, who are also Democrats, testified in favor of the legislation. Both prosecutors and Moore reiterated Monday that juvenile justice is a priority and appeared to agree with measures in the bill. Among its provisions is one to cut the amount of time the Maryland Department of Juvenile Services can spend on the intake process, an idea Braveboy praised. She said it would ensure Maryland has a juvenile justice system that works “rapidly,” would help prosecutors’ offices move more quickly when speaking to people impacted by crimes, and would allow kids to access rehabilitative programs in short order. The bill would also extend the length of time children can serve on probation, and expand a list of charges children 10 to 12 can face to include alleged firearm possession, car theft, animal abuse and third-degree sex offenses. Some Democrats in the General Assembly are concerned the new legislation would roll back laws passed two sessions ago, such as the Juvenile Justice Reform Act of 2022, which limited the charges younger children can face. Moore said he supports the time increase for probationary periods, and that they “need to be long enough for the young person to actually receive the supports that their probation actually calls for.” Braveboy called the probation extensions integral to the bill, noting that children who end up in the justice system are “responsible to the court” and must participate in the mandated programs they are referred to. Much of the bill also focuses on revamping policies at the Department of Juvenile Services, which Moore said was perhaps the most challenged agency he inherited when he took office in January 2023. “We’re talking about a department that was underfunded, undermanned, morale was low and there were really small levels of coordination taking place,” the governor said, noting that there was an 18% vacancy rate among staff at the agency when he began his four-year term.

PUBLISHED: February 19, 2024 | www.baltimoresun.com George Washington, our first president, penned the following in 1789: “I walk on untrodden ground. There is scarcely any part of my conduct which may not hereafter be drawn into precedent.” Washington acknowledged his fallibility. Although he acknowledged he was venturing into uncharted territory, he was resolute in his duty as president to do whatever was necessary for the preservation of the republic. We were fortunate to have Washington as our first president. He established a lasting precedent for the nature of national leadership that continues to this day. There have been both outstanding and corrupt presidents since the time of George Washington. Regardless of their moral character or lack thereof, all are eternally connected by the fact that they were elected by the people in a process that has persisted for nearly 250 years. Every four years, millions of Americans cast ballots in an effort to elect a leader who will steer the nation toward greatness. The American people desire the freedom to determine their own destinies and live their lives without being burdened by onerous government actions. Each year, when Americans cast their ballots, they assume the risk of electing a president who will either act in their best interests or pursue unjust policies. In addition, they indirectly influence the selection process for political appointees and cabinet members that will be led by their newly elected president. Individuals hailing from various parts of the world, with a significant number originating from Maryland. Spiro Agnew, Richard Nixon’s Vice President, is among the most notable Marylanders in relation to the president. Irrespective of personal stances regarding Nixon or the forgivability of his sins, it is indisputable that the presidency and vice presidency remain a constant that the American people will forever select every four years. On this Presidents’ Day, honor the presidents, both the good and the bad, and acknowledge that millions of Americans cast their ballots in their favor, regardless of personal preference. Acknowledge the significance of the presidency and the gravity of its responsibilities. Perhaps by that time, Presidents’ Day will have greater significance in your life. Armstrong Williams (www.armstrongwilliams.com; @arightside) is a political analyst, syndicated columnist and owner of the broadcasting company, Howard Stirk Holdings. He is also part owner of The Baltimore Sun.

February 20, 2024 | www.baltimoresun.com/ Juvenile crime has been the subject of intense debate over the past few years, as Maryland has seen a major uptick in it. The crime ranges from the notorious “squeegee kids” who harassed people in their cars, to the “Kia challenge,” which saw numerous youths exploit the vulnerabilities of certain Kia and Hyundai cars to steal them, to murder, robbery, gang violence and more. Fox45 Baltimore provided me with the platform to sit down with the governor of Maryland, Wes Moore; Baltimore City State’s Attorney Ivan Bates; and Prince George’s County State’s Attorney Aisha Braveboy during a critical town hall Monday night to discuss the state of criminality among juveniles in the state. Fox45’s unwavering efforts in reporting on issues such as education and crime — issues that disproportionately affect Black families — and their willingness to bring together the media, the governor and the state’s attorneys for this critical conversation is invaluable. Governor Moore has gained a reputation for being, what some might call, a law-and-order governor, placing a historic $127 million investment in local law enforcement agencies and proposing legislation to clamp down on juvenile crime. When asked about this, Governor Moore said, “People should also pay attention to what we were saying from our first days, where I said that public safety was going to be the top priority for this administration and we were serious about that. It’s the reason that we made historic investments in local law enforcement.” The uptick in juvenile crime has led many to question the lax laws on the books, which some say have allowed juveniles to practically escape accountability. I asked Mr. Bates about the importance of prosecutor’s office proposals to require that juveniles who commit certain violent felonies see a judge within 24 hours. He said, “We look at car and car theft cases … for us, the 24-hour window is very important, it allows us, one, to figure out what’s going on with this young person very quickly to try to get this young person services very quickly, but it also allows us to reach out to the witnesses and the victims and the police to put together a very solid case to hold the perpetrator accountable.” Of course, punishment is not the only solution to solving the juvenile crime problem. These youths need to be rehabilitated so that they can go on to lead successful lives. Ms. Braveboy said on the matter, “For me, it’s being able to have more flexibility with probation, It is really important that our young people are held accountable for any rehabilitative services that are offered through [the Department of Juvenile Services], it’s important that they take advantage of those services. … Individuals who are in our juvenile justice system are responsible to the court to participate in mandated activities to help them become better citizens and if they have not completed that within a prescribed period, being able to extend that period of time should be available to the judge without any issues.” Mass incarceration is a major problem within the United States and Maryland. Maryland alone has a prisoner population of around 16,000 individuals. Ms. Braveboy said on this topic, “I have never believed that individuals should not be punished and punished appropriately, we have held people accountable. Unfortunately, we have given young people life sentences … but what we know is that 95% of the people who are arrested, prosecuted and convicted are coming home. And so, the question is how are they coming back to us. … We have to give people a realistic pathway to come home and be stronger and better citizens.” The governor echoed this sentiment, when he said, “I could not agree with her more. … We do have a situation that the vast majority of people who are incarcerated, they’re coming back home at some point, and so how were thinking about… preparing society for their reentry, it’s going to matter.” In addressing the complexities surrounding family structure, including the challenges of fatherless homes, the burden on single mothers, and the necessity for young men to know what it means to be a man, a critical question arises: How can we revitalize the institution of the family? Governor Wes Moore provided a profound response that sheds light on this issue. He stated, “This is personal to me. I was raised by an immigrant single mom who literally worked three different jobs. … It informs how I think about this. It’s not that my mom had to raise me on her own; she had ministers, she had coaches, she had mentors, she had aunts, uncles and cousins, all who felt a vested interest in making sure that no matter where I was, I was surrounded. … But I knew that I had to be held accountable for my actions.” Maryland faces many challenges related to juvenile justice. Under its leadership, Governor Wes Moore has signaled that he is more than willing to take on the challenge. “I’m very proudly the people’s governor, they put me in this seat, they’re the ones who direct where we go… There are four things that people want us to focus on. Make Maryland more safe, make Maryland more affordable, make Maryland more competitive, and keep making Maryland the state that serves and so my instructions come from the people who put us in there.” Armstrong Williams (www.armstrongwilliams.com; @arightside) is a political analyst, syndicated columnist and owner of the broadcasting company, Howard Stirk Holdings. He is also part owner of The Baltimore Sun. This column is part of a weekly series written from “The Owner’s Box.”

PUBLISHED: February 15, 2024 | UPDATED: February 14, 2024 at 12:22 p.m. You know, this recent shooting in Kansas City is just so devastating, tragic, but it unfortunately paints an even more tragic picture, that a disproportionate number of Black youths are killing each other and others at staggering rates. It’s a tragic reality that we can’t ignore any longer. What is going on in the Black community? Is it the breakdown of the family structure? A disproportionately high number of Black youths without fathers? Is it the lack of enforcement of laws by law enforcement? Is it relaxed laws created by the legislature? What’s creating this problem? Just look at New York City, Chicago, look at Washington D.C., where three officers were shot. It’s always the same story, disproportionately young Black men shooting or killing Black men or other people. And the reality is that things are not getting better, they’re getting worse. And look, it’s obviously not because they’re Black. No person innately is more violent than another. But what’s going on in society that’s creating this disproportionate problem? We need to find solutions. Otherwise, things will only get worse, and more and more young Black men will have no futures, and they’ll end up locked up and imprisoned. Armstrong Williams (www.armstrongwilliams.com; @arightside) is a political analyst, syndicated columnist and owner of the broadcasting company, Howard Stirk Holdings. He is also part owner of The Baltimore Sun.

February 15, 2024 | www.joplinglobe.com A masterpiece of duplicity is President Joe Biden. You would assume that after decades in the Senate, he would have gained some knowledge of how to legislate. But no. Instead of making any attempt to actually solve the border crisis, he puts up a weak, glorified illegal invasion management bill — not to stop illegals, just to manage them better and faster. First, the timing couldn’t be more perfect. It’s an obvious play to try to appease Republicans and independents to capture more votes. But he couldn’t even do that right. Instead, he attached other priorities to it, rendering it a quadruple failure. It’s a simple analysis. It should have been obvious to him not to tie his other priorities to a meaningless border bill. Republicans obviously were going to have an issue with it. And they did. Going forward, he will be in turmoil as he attempts to secure even more funding for a foreign war in which the U.S. has no obvious strategic stake. It is common knowledge that the border has nothing to do with laws but everything to do with the whims of the current executive. In today’s radical politics, the border is either open or it is closed. Migrants are either coming into the United States in droves or they’re being stopped whenever possible. By implementing executive orders, for example, President Donald Trump halted the influx of migrants, maintaining total migrant encounters of 1.3 million over a 24-month period. Biden, however, repealed and reintroduced provisions that transformed the border and Border Patrol into a processing station for illegals rather than a barrier or point of entry. This not only increased encounters but practically encouraged them, increasing that amount to 5 million over a similar period. That is not what any rational elite would desire. A rational elite does not want their country to be overrun by people who inevitably will become public charges — people who will ultimately depend upon the government for assistance at every turn, whether it be for food, shelter or other necessities. Fixing the issue does not require new legislation; all that is required is his determination to safeguard the nation. But perhaps getting more democratic voters is more important to him and his party. The other thing, objectively, is that this is as good as it gets for him. Ukraine isn’t turning around. We will not reach 2% inflation in the near future. Youth and the left wing of his party refer to him as “Genocide Joe” in reference to Gaza as a result of his party’s inability to control their fringe left-wing sect. Additionally, the number of targets in the region is insufficient to appease the Houthis in Yemen or the Iran proxies in Iraq and Syria with a few explosives. They can only be appeased through troops on the ground — something that he will absolutely not do during an election year, lest he be accused of genocide by his party once more. As a result, those locations will continue to deteriorate. The border will not recover from its present state of disarray in the absence of critical actions that he continues to decline to undertake. It’s possible that he will argue that all he wants is for Republicans to reject this major bill because it was the “fix,” but the fact that the law was passed so quickly makes his case, at best, tenuous. Unfortunately for Democrats, Biden’s presidency is marked by a series of miscalculations and missteps, particularly regarding his handling of the border crisis and his legislative strategy. He has not only failed at every turn but also has increasingly made America a more dangerous and divided place than ever before. Armstrong Williams is manager/sole owner of Howard Stirk Holdings I & II Broadcast Television Stations and the 2016 Multicultural Media Broadcast Owner of the year.

February 16, 2024 | www.baltimoresun.com What will be President Joe Biden’s most important campaign decision as he seeks re-election in November? It is not obtaining military aid for Israel or Ukraine from an obstreperous Congress. It is not ameliorating the flood of immigrants across our border with Mexico. It is not moving to all-out war with nuclear-ambitious Iran. It is deciding whether to keep Vice President Kamala Harris as his running mate. The American people did not need Special Counsel Robert Hur’s report on Mr. Biden’s mishandling of classified information to know he is in advanced stages of senescence featuring a dimming memory and grip on reality. He mistakes the president of Egypt with the president of Mexico. He insinuated a conversation with a dead German Prime Minister. He speaks robotically and looks mummified. President Biden’s intellectual gaffes are not going away. They will continue to handicap his re-election aspirations. When citizens enter voting booths in November contemplating a Biden vote, they know the likelihood is overwhelming that his vice-presidential running mate will become president through Mr. Biden’s death or disability before the conclusion of a second term. If voters lack confidence in the competence and leadership of Mr. Biden’s vice-presidential partner, they will shy away from voting for him. Ordinarily, American voters give little weight to a presidential candidate’s vice-presidential choice — even though the vice president is only one heartbeat away from the presidency. In 1956, for example, voters decisively reelected President Dwight D. Eisenhower despite his questionable health, unconcerned about the qualifications of vice president running mate, Richard Nixon. President Eisenhower memorably said during the 1960 presidential campaign between his vice president and Sen. John F. Kennedy that, “If you give me a week, I might think of one” major idea of Mr. Nixon’s that I adopted. President Biden’s case is unique in the history of the American presidency. He is currently 81, the oldest age of any president. His senescence is obvious even to a school child. Alzheimer’s disease is around the corner. Has Vice President Harris exhibited the competence and inspired the confidence needed to get voters to stick with Mr. Biden, despite his diminishing mental capacities knowing his backup is fully capable of the presidency? Her credentials are solid: an accomplished lawyer; former Attorney General of California; star performer as California’s United States senator on the Senate Judiciary Committee; and steady discharge of her vice-presidential responsibilities with no material blunders. Her youthful age, 59, and vigor are also plus factors. Ms. Harris would be the first female president of the United States, a prospect that might push women voters toward Mr. Biden. Early in his term, President Biden tasked his vice president with controlling a surge of immigration along the southern border — akin to Napoleon’s handing the baton to Marshal Ney to conduct the disastrous retreat of the French Army from Moscow. Her efforts have proven an incomplete success, and the issue has returned to the White House, where it continues to chagrin and vex. President Biden has kept his vice president on a tight leash. He has created the misleading appearance that she is consumed by race and transgender issues but nothing more. He has kept her punching below her weight, like a sprinter handicapped by shackles. But giving his vice president more prominence and underscoring her youth and mental acuity to convince voters that she is made of presidential timber would be problematic for President Biden. It would remind voters of his frailties and diminish his stature on the political stage. Presidential candidates are by nature proudly narcissistic and fiercely resist playing second fiddle to anyone else. Moreover, presidential assistants characteristically seek to build a wall between the president and vice president to protect their own parochial turf. That explains why Vice President John Nance Garner, under President Franklin D. Roosevelt, bemoaned that his office was “not worth a bucket of warm spit.” President Biden’s passionate conviction that neither the country nor the Constitution could survive a second Trump presidency may overcome his scruples against boosting Vice President Harris’ profile and competency to discharge the duties of the presidency to win a second term, albeit under Ms. Harris’ shadow. Mr. Biden might be willing to make this sacrifice not because he would love his ego less, but because he hates Trump more. Time will tell at the Democratic National Convention in Chicago in August. Armstrong Williams (www.armstrongwilliams.com; @arightside) is a political analyst, syndicated columnist and owner of the broadcasting company, Howard Stirk Holdings. He is also part owner of The Baltimore Sun. This column is part of a weekly series written from “The Owner’s Box.”

PUBLISHED: February 14, 2024 at 9:59 a.m. | UPDATED: February 14, 2024 at 12:22 p.m. The public education system in Baltimore City has gained notoriety for being among the worst in the nation. Investigations launched by area news media into the school system over the past decade revealed shocking discoveries. There were schools where none of the students tested were proficient in math. There were instances of non-existent ghost students being counted to pad school enrollment numbers and funding. There were more than 12,500 examples of changing failing grades to passing over a four-year period. This all contributed to a massive, ongoing lawsuit, financially supported by Baltimore Sun co-owner David Smith, which has already survived a motion to dismiss. It accuses the school system of misappropriating taxpayer funds, among other ills. Issues such as these in Baltimore and elsewhere in public school systems have sparked a reform movement that has now found itself in Oklahoma.Currently, Oklahoma schools are at a crossroads, marked by challenges and promising opportunities. Unfortunately, the statewide Oklahoma school system is one of the worst in the nation. Where Maryland ranks 25th in education, Oklahoma ranks 49th, according to the 2023 Kids Count Data Book published annually by the Annie E. Casey Foundation. However, with the appointment of a new superintendent, Ryan Walters, there is hope for fresh perspectives, new ideas and overcoming existing obstacles. Can Baltimore learn from their efforts?Superintendent Walters told me, “We need our left-wing indoctrination out of the classroom, and we’re getting back to a focus on the basics.” This is particularly refreshing in light of the fact that a former principal in the school system was forced to resign in disgrace as a result of the revelation of his hobby of drag performing.The Oklahoma school system faces hurdles that require innovative solutions to solve. They face problems such as a lack of school choice, which poses issues for students, parents and school districts alike. As Superintendent Walters stated, “We’re also taking on parent rights and parent choice. I want school choice so parents can choose for their kids where they go to school.” In order to adequately prepare students for success in the future, it is essential that these concerns be addressed soon. After all, students from all backgrounds should never have to fear poor outcomes. They should have the opportunity to have access to a high-quality education without fear of failure.Under its new administration, Oklahoma schools are presented with a unique opportunity to assume the lead in confronting and surmounting obstacles within the field of education. Their power allows them to prioritize the needs of students and encourage the development of problem-solving strategies. Oklahoma possesses the capacity to emerge as a model of excellence on a national scale. This crucial juncture is overflowing with potential. The possible impact could be a significant paradigm shift in the education landscape of the state and the nation. And while Baltimore is a very different landscape from most of Oklahoma, it too could stand to “get back to a focus on the basics.” Armstrong Williams (www.armstrongwilliams.com; @arightside) is a political analyst, syndicated columnist and owner of the broadcasting company, Howard Stirk Holdings. He is also part owner of The Baltimore Sun.

2024 LAS VEGAS, NEVADA This year's Super Bowl between the San Francisco 49ers and the Kansas City Chiefs is gearing up to be one for the history books. The 49ers, led by their quarterback, Brock Purdy, is an inspiring story that we rarely get to see. Formerly known as Mr. Irrelevant, as he was the final pick of the 2022 draft, everyone expected him to go nowhere. But now he's leading one of the best teams in the NFL to the Super Bowl. He'll be up against superstar Patrick Mahomes, quarterback for the Kansas City Chiefs. In his seventh year, Patrick Mahomes shows no signs of slowing down, leading his team to 3 Super Bowls, and winning twice. Amidst the backdrop of this momentous Super Bowl, I had the pleasure of attending the Washington Commanders Cocktail Party at KUSA NORI Japanese Restaurant in Las Vegas, Nevada. It's one of many cocktail parties going on in Vegas right now, as each team hosts their own  Super Bowl weekend event. In attendance were all-stars, legends, owners, and royalty in both business, sports, and media. One would believe they were in Maryland / D.C. considering the number of D.C. and Maryland-based people in attendance. One man in attendance was Josh Harris, a man who had recently acquired the majority stake ownership  in the Washington Commanders. It was a delight to learn about Josh Harris's perspective on his Newley acquired team. He was enthusiastic and is fully prepared to lead the Maryland-based Washington Commanders to the Super Bowl next year. In his own words, “It’s great to be here, but I want to be here playing.” In attendance as well were Mark Ein, Redskins legends Doug Williams 1987-88 Super Bowl MVP , Joe Theismann, Chef Geoff, Nora O'Donnell who hosts CBS News evening news , Jan Adams President JMA Solutions , Mashea Ashton CEO Digital Pioneer Academy and Jason Williams President of the Commanders. Theisman, as you may know, led the team formerly known as the Washington Redskins to two consecutive Super Bowls, winning one. Despite the Washington commanders' failure to advance to the final stretch of the season, there was an atmosphere of anticipation and delight. It was conveyed to me that although the commanders were unable to make it to the Super Bowl, they were still rooting for another Maryland team, the Baltimore Ravens, to advance to the end. Having the opportunity to witness the internal conversation of attendees at these events was a delight. It provided extraordinary insight into the upcoming season and the determination that these owners and players possess to accomplish greatness in the coming year. More Media from Superbowl Weekend

February 9, 2024 | www.baltimoresun.com/ Moral leadership, moral clarity and moral scruples are centerpieces of civilization, eclipsing economic statistics or military power. All empires preceding the American Empire expired from moral rot. King Alaric and the Visigoths who sacked Rome in 410 A.D. entered without superior weapons or financial sinews. The American Empire should learn from the example of Rome. The United States began on a positive footing. President George Washington’s first inaugural address emphasized, “[T]he foundation of our national policy will be laid in the pure and immutable principles of private morality.” President Washington’s farewell address added, “And let us with caution indulge the supposition, that morality can be maintained without religion. Whatever may be conceded to the influence of refined education on minds of peculiar structure, reason and experience both forbid us to expect that National morality can prevail in exclusion of religious principle.” President John Adams similarly noted in 1798, “Our constitution was made only for a moral and religious people. It is wholly inadequate to the government of any other.” A keen sense of morality fueled President Abraham Lincoln’s opposition to slavery culminating in the 13th Amendment. Mr. Lincoln elaborated in his second inaugural address: “Fondly do we hope — fervently do we pray — that this mighty scourge of war may speedily pass away. Yet, if God wills that it continue until all the wealth piled by the bondsman’s two hundred and fifty years of unrequited toil shall be sunk, and until every drop of blood drawn by the lash shall be paid by another drawn with the sword, as was said three thousand years ago, so still it must be said, ‘The judgments of the Lord are true and righteous altogether.'” Harriet Tubman was Mr. Lincoln’s moral equal in fearlessly driving the Underground Railroad to deliver slaves from their bondage. Autodidact Frederick Douglass preached that “One and God make a majority.” As the American Empire has mushroomed, moral leadership and moral clarity have receded. One looks in vain for political leaders who have set moral standards to which the wise and honest may repair. Moral leadership and clarity can partially be described by what it is not. It is not cheating on spouses. It is not telling lies for ulterior political motives. It is not a hedonistic attitude of eat, drink and be merry, for tomorrow we die. It is not judging by the color of a person’s skin rather than by the content of his or her character. It is not the bad man’s view of the law, which is a calculation of the likelihood of detection and punishment for a violation. It is not narcissism, misogyny, egotism, megalomania, jealousy, avarice, pride, hubris or idleness. This is what morality or moral leadership is. It is exhibiting every benevolent instinct of the human heart. It is striving to honor the Sermon on the Mount. It is honesty, industry and selflessness. It is always doing the right thing even if no one is watching. It is celebrating the thinker over the armored, King Arthur over Sir Launcelot. Moral leadership is not passive. It is laboring against injustice notwithstanding the risks or futility. It is influencing others through moral suasion not through money or raw power. Moral clarity is Huckleberry Finn, refusing to return Jim, a slave, to his master, Miss Watson, even if it meant going to hell as Huck’s religious upbringing had taught. Moral clarity is Tank Man in Tiananmen Square daring a Chinese tank to roll over him to protest the mass killings of Chinese civilians craving freedom. The Holy Koran exhibits moral clarity in enjoining zakat or philanthropy and worship of God alone unsoiled by idolatry. Survey the spectrum of American leaders on social media who command hundreds of millions. if not billions. of followers. Their names are household words. But none could hold a candle to the likes of George Washington, Abraham Lincoln or even Huck Finn in exemplifying the finest hours of moral leadership. Our contemporary leaders inspire indulgence, not the grandeur of sacrifice and selflessness. Moral clarity must be institutionalized. It must be inculcated in the home, in the classroom and in the pulpit. The American Empire has met the enemy. It is not China. It is not Russia. It is not Iran. It is a perfect vacuum of morality in all its moods and tenses. Armstrong Williams (www.armstrongwilliams.com; @arightside) is a political analyst, syndicated columnist and owner of the broadcasting company, Howard Stirk Holdings. He is also part owner of The Baltimore Sun. This column is part of a weekly series written from “The Owner’s Box.”

February 6, 2024 | www.winchesterstar.com In the shadowed corners of the Middle East, where ancient trade routes twist like serpents through the desert, lies an obscure outpost in Jordan called Tower 22 (T-22). This newly discovered outpost and the name, now a glaring testament to the convoluted and often opaque nature of modern warfare and foreign policy, became known to most Americans in the first press releases addressing the Jan. 28 attack on the base. The retreat of U.S. forces from al-Qaim and the tiny outpost that preceded Tower 22 in 2004 marked the beginning of a tumultuous period, a prelude to the rise of al-Qaida and ISIS. Today, the vastly expanded base, reportedly home to 350 Americans and visible on Google Earth, stands not as a symbol of strength but as a poignant reminder of the vulnerabilities and contradictions inherent in America's military engagements in the shadows and mirrors of the Middle East and Arabia at large. The attack on T-22, a costly reminder of the perils of such exposed positions, raises fundamental questions about the transparency of the U.S. military operations. The Pentagon's penchant for secrecy, ostensibly to protect national security, has ironically left the American public in the dark, while those with malevolent intent seem to be steps ahead, armed with meticulously assembled "target packages" on "secret" facilities throughout the region. The root of this strategic quagmire lies in the shifting sands of international politics and economics. The U.S. government's policy, which currently appears to lack direction, is being exploited by opportunistic global players such as Iran, China and Russia. Iran in particular has emerged flush with cash, a consequence of the U.S.' own faltering steps — from the Obama administration to Donald Trump's tenure — that inadvertently bolstered Iran's economic resilience. Sanctions, once the sharp sword of U.S. foreign policy, have been blunted. The reliance on the U.S. dollar as the primary currency in global trade has been eroded by alternative systems such as BRICS (Brazil, Russia, India, China and South Africa), which challenge the dollar's supremacy. Moreover, Iran's deep roots in ancient trade networks and its adept use of traditional barter systems and underground financial networks like Hawala and Siraj further dilute the effectiveness of traditional economic sanctions. As the toll of the attack in Jordan climbs, questions arise about the impact of U.S. financial policies on Iran's military capabilities. The strategic landscape is reminiscent of a George Carlin skit — tragically comical in its absurdity where the U.S., in its bid to exert economic pressure, ends up undermining its own currency and, inadvertently, empowering its adversaries. Meanwhile, the situation in Iraq is evolving toward "Lebanonization" of the entire nation, with Iran extending its influence through well-equipped militias and Iraq itself negotiating the departure of American troops, including from the Kurdish regions. This development, tied to a one-year ticking clock on the withdrawal decision that aligns with the U.S. presidential inauguration in January 2025, suggests that a crucial strategic decision will fall either at the twilight of a presidency or at the dawn of a new administration — a timing as precarious as it is significant. In this complex geopolitical chess game, where ancient trade routes intersect with modern warfare and economic strategies, the U.S. finds itself at a crossroads. Its technological prowess, once a formidable advantage, now seems less decisive against the backdrop of age-old barter systems and hidden financial networks. As the U.S. grapples with these challenges, the future of its engagement in the Middle East and the safety of its personnel stationed there hangs in a delicate balance, a narrative woven with threads of irony, tragedy and the enduring complexities of global power dynamics. The unfolding scenario at the T-22 base in Jordan is more than a tactical blunder; it reflects a broader strategic myopia. It raises critical questions about the efficacy of U.S. foreign policy and military strategy in a rapidly evolving global landscape. The ancient wisdom of the Middle East, where history is written in the sands and whispered in the winds, stands in stark contrast to the technological might and economic power of the West. Yet, in this age-old battleground of empires, it's the unseen currents of culture, tradition and covert finance that often dictate the outcomes of conflicts. The U.S., in its pursuit of global dominance, must adapt to these realities or risk being outmaneuvered in a game where the rules are as fluid as the shifting sands of the desert. Armstrong Williams' column is syndicated by Creators.

February 6, 2024 | www.baltimoresun.com Gov. Wes Moore, shown here at speaking at the State House in January, recently released a plan to bring stronger accountability to Maryland’s juvenile justice system, along with House Speaker Adrienne A. Jones and Senate President Bill Ferguson. FILE (Barbara Haddock Taylor/staff photo) By ARMSTRONG WILLIAMS February 6, 2024 at 5:45 a.m. One of the most dangerous things a leader can do, be it mayor, governor or other prominent elected official, is send a message that you can break the law. Tragically, anti-law-and-order leaders are not uncommon nationwide. Particularly affected states are those such as Maryland, New York and California, whose leaders have enacted policies that permit flagrant criminal activity and violent acts of injustice with minimal, if any, repercussions. Nevertheless, the situation in Maryland could soon change, thanks to their governor, Wes Moore, who is adopting an extremely bold approach to combating crime. We need not look any further than within our own borders in order to discover the ludicrous consequences that progressive agendas have. It was recently discovered that a teenage offender who had been convicted of rape was found to be attending high school in the state. This is incomprehensible and occurred under the watchful eye of Maryland’s very own Secretary of Juvenile Services, Vincent Schiraldi. In addition to being a student freely attending the school with other students, the perpetrator of the rape had never been committed to a DJS facility. Instead, the only actions that were taken against him were that he was placed on probation, he was provided counseling, and he was ordered to abstain from having any contact with children who were younger than 15 years old. Based on media reports, the teen has also been charged with a second rape of a 2-year-old in April 2022. Apparently, the view of the Department of Juvenile Services and state law is that parents, teachers, students and administrators have no right to know a rapist is in their classroom. How insane is that? How many more similar cases of violent criminals in classrooms are there today across the state of Maryland? Much credit to Baltimore State’s Attorney Ivan Bates, Maryland U.S. Attorney Erek Barron and Prince George’s County State’s Attorney Aisha Braveboy for working with Governor Moore to fix this crisis. And let’s be clear, this is par for the course for Schiraldi, who, in 2008, was the subject of a comprehensive investigation as the Director of D.C.’s Department of Youth Rehabilitation Services, where it was found that he broke at least five policies, some inmates received preferential treatment, and one inmate escaped for a period of 22 days during a cookout held by Schiraldi. However, all of this is about to change as a result of recently introduced legislation by Governor Wes Moore and legislative leaders of the Maryland General Assembly in response to growing public concern over the increase in juvenile delinquency. In addition to increasing the probationary period for juveniles, this groundbreaking legislation expands the jurisdiction of the Department of Juvenile Services to encompass individuals under the age of 13 who commit firearm offenses, sexual offenses and animal cruelty. Governor Wes Moore said of the bill, “We need accountability when someone repeatedly violates the law, yes, but we also need accountability for the adults and the systems responsible for preventing and responding to those situations.” Constantly, the main argument in favor of lenient treatment of criminals appears to be that they are human beings, many of whom are enduring difficult circumstances and therefore do not merit the severe punishments they receive. However, this conveniently neglects the victims of the crimes. It conveniently forgets that people will be legitimately afraid to leave their homes, afraid to patronize local businesses, afraid to live their lives, because they’re fearful of becoming the next victim of a petty crime or a violent act. Maryland is confronted with a multifaceted crisis. It is experiencing an education crisis. It is also confronted with a juvenile violence crisis. These two go hand-in-hand. When students are receiving substandard education and are failing out of school, they are virtually compelled to engage in criminal activity. For this reason, an aggressive stance on crime is itself insufficient. Merely imprisoning individuals is insufficient. Because for every individual incarcerated, 10 more are at risk of making the transition from the failing Baltimore education system to prison. This is a step in the right direction, but it won’t solve the problem entirely. Youth need to be in schools, not on the streets; they need to be learning in classrooms, not learning how to shoot a gun. If we can change that, we can fix Maryland, and Governor Wes Moore is the man who will do just that. Armstrong Williams (www.armstrongwilliams.com; @arightside) is a political analyst, syndicated columnist and owner of the broadcasting company, Howard Stirk Holdings. He is also part owner of The Baltimore Sun. This column is one of two he writes monthly about culture and politics, in addition to his weekly Owner’s Box column.