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Williams has hired an important black activist, Phillip Pannell, as an adviser, and Pannell opened a campaign office in Ward 8, Barry's home turf. Williams also sought and won the endorsements of two key Barry confidants. Williams is on a roll now. Two years ago, he was awkward at community meetings, but he has learned a common touch. At the basketball-court forum, he patted shoulders and grabbed forearms--physical gestures once uncomfortable to him. And he's telling a more personal story. He is the adopted son of postal workers who raised eight children, he says over and over. He earned his way. He's asking voters to remake the city in his image. So far, they like what they see.