For those of who think Harlem’s Apollo Theater is the syndicated television show of the same name, the California African American Museum’s (CAAM) ongoing exhibition, “Ain’t Nothing Like the Real Thing,” should be an eye-opener.

Judge Mablean Ephriam will celebrate the 10th annual Honoring Unsung Fathers (HUF) Awards and scholarship brunch on June 17 at the Hyatt Regency Hotel’s Grand Ballroom in Long Beach, 200 S. Pine Ave., from noon to 4 p.m.

Nominations for the H.U.F Awards are being accepted now. Awards are generally given in five categories: Solo Warrior (single father), Love Cares (married father), Fatherhood Forever (divorced father), Village Dad (non-biological father) and Living Legacy (father, grandfather, great-grandfather, etc.).

Al Sharpton has patterned his career so closely after the Jesse Jackson model that he could be justifiably charged with identity theft. Like Jackson, he began wearing a Martin Luther King medallion around his neck. Like Jackson, he started his own civil rights organization. Like Jackson, he ran for president of the United States. Like Jackson, he now has his own radio and television shows. And like Jackson, he has become a confidante of the man who occupies the White House.

OK, here comes a little clarity. No, I’m not talking about President Barack Obama’s soulful elucidation about gay marriage. More than enough has already been said about that—essentially a lot of sound and fury signifying emotion but little substance.

One hundred and nine Bennett College students shook my hand and received their diplomas on Saturday, May 5. With big smiles and a little swagger, they went through the time-honored ceremonies of baccalaureate and commencement. And, we were blessed to have phenomenal friends join us. The Rev. Al Sharpton was our baccalaureate speaker, and the Hon. Alexis Herman was our graduation speaker. Wow! Between the two of them they offered lessons for graduates all over the world.