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A2 The Afro-American January 14, 2023 - January 20, 2023 Volume 132 No. 24 THE BLACKwww.afro.com MEDIA AUTHORITY • AFRO.COM

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JANUARY 13, 2024 - JANUARY 19, 2024

We’re Still Here

Honoring

Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.

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Tommy Stallworth, a former member of the Michigan legislature, speaks on using the power of the vote on B1.

This week, the AFRO honors the work of the Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. and the activists of today who carry on his legacy.

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Learn more about AFRO Freelancer Reginald Williams and the importance of advocating for Black men and boys on B5.

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A2 The Afro-American January 13, 2024 - January 19, 2024

The ABC’s of activism: A lesson from Fifth Avenue

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When you lose a spouse, you’re often left grieving while also trying to figure out how to find a way forward and identify what’s next – personally, career wise and financially. Life is a journey with many chapters and with life experiences and lessons learned, we find and deepen our connection with ourselves. In the aftermath of losing my husband several years ago, I connected with other women who were grieving the loss of their spouse and also saw many of them struggling with managing their finances. I had a previous career in banking with a good handle on my family’s finances. As a result, I found myself to be a resource to other women in a similar situation to educate them on how to manage finances in this new chapter of their life. It’s an all too common story for married couples where one spouse manages the finances and the other has little to no involvement. Shortly after my husband died, COVID-19 hit and I found myself doing little more than just taking care of the house and kids. After months of introspection and a deep desire to find sense for it all, I came to the conclusion that I needed to turn my pain into purpose. My exposure to a network of women facing similar life circumstances provided me with my answer and my next steps: rejoin the banking workforce and work with women to plan for and protect their family’s wealth – especially in the face of tragic life events. Finding a new path Deciding to rejoin the workforce after a prolonged career break is no easy decision. Aside from the transition of working for yourself, there are a slew of other factors you need to consider. My finding the JPMorgan Chase ReEntry Program was a bit of good timing and divine intervention. Shortly after I applied to the program, I interviewed and was on my way into a new career with the Private Bank in Baltimore. The structure of the ReEntry Program is a nice cocoon for on-boarding a new employee – especially one

who has been out of corporate America for over a decade. That said, if you are planning to rejoin the workforce it’s important to give yourself grace and be intentional about the next chapter of your life. Take the time to think about the industry, the company and your personal brand. Be sure you are taking the right next step for yourself and that you are doing it for the appropriate reason – keeping your “why” in mind. Planning for the unexpected Because of my journey, I am passionate about helping clients who are facing life-changing circumstances. Below are three key financial tips for individuals no matter where they are on the wealth spectrum. 1. Identify where your documents are located – Put together a master document that outlines a list of

all your bills and how they are paid, usernames and passwords for accounts, and important financial and estate planning documents including bank statements, wills and any other directives. Place them in a safe or lock box that a trusted family member is aware of. 2. Build your short-term liquidity fund – As a general rule of thumb, setting aside three to six months’ worth of your basic essential expenses is key for preparing for a rainy day. When you’re just starting out, it’s okay to start small and continue building from there. Everyone has a different comfort level for what this fund (a savings or money market account) looks like. The main point is to take a look at your monthly expenses and plan your short-term safety net from there in the event that the unexpected happens. 3. Make sure estate documents are in order – For some families, discussions around sickness and death are tough ones to have. Unfortunately, proper estate planning can be overlooked as a result. The negative cost of this oversight can pose a threat to the surviving family’s wealth and financial well-being. Ensuring you have a will, powers of attorney (POA), living trust, advanced directives and other important estate documents in place is crucial for protecting assets and outlining your wishes in the event of your passing. Be sure to update these documents as major life events happen over the years. It’s normal to be reluctant about planning for unexpected events – it’s personal and complex. Taking control of your finances and thinking ahead about your future is an evolving process. Working with a trusted team can help you ensure your wealth plans support the hopes and dreams you have for your family’s future. Tawanna Browne Smith is a vice president and banker at J.P. Morgan Private Bank in Baltimore. Smith leverages her trading and analysis background to guide successful individuals and their families in taking a holistic view of their wealth management goals and aspirations.

January 13, 2024 - January 19, 2024 The Afro-American A5

Activism in the classroom: How Juan-Jose D. Garza is developing the leaders of tomorrow “Activism is letting the world know that something is important and [that it] affects all of us.” Garza told the AFRO that he encourages his students to stay up to date on current events in the world, so they are aware of what is happening in other communities around the

By Gene Lambey Special to the AFRO

The month of January not only marks the start of a new year, but a month to take action. January is a time to celebrate the life of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr., born on Jan.15, and take time to reflect on how to make change for the better. For some stakeholders, like educators, the month is a time to actively walk out the teachings of King, who saw the importance of including K-12 students in the Civil Rights Movement. This week, the AFRO had the globe. Garza said that he encourages open opportunity to speak with Juan-Jose discussions on these current events in the D. Garza, a ninth grade social studies classroom. teacher at Archbishop Carroll “They need to know what is happening High School in the District of in the world. In the current situation, with Columbia, located at 4300 what’s going on in the Middle East with Harewood Rd. N.E. Palestine and Israel, we talk about Garza started those things,” said Garza. teaching world “One of the reasons I history to the make current events freshman students the main homework at Archbishop for my class is that Carroll High we are all citizens School for the of this world and current school the students are the year, however, future.” he has worked in “They [are] the education for over ones who take care of twelve years. The our world after we’re AFRO spoke with gone,” said Garza. Photo courtesy of Juan-Jose D. Garza Garza on what “In my perspective, Juan-Jose D. Garza, an educator in D.C., says teaching students to be activism means to it’s important for aware of the issues and use their voice to effect positive change is one him and how he every citizen to be way educators can follow the example of great activists like Dr. Martin practices it. informed [and] to be Luther King Jr.

aware of what is going on around them.” At the heart of the issue is a simple question: “What can we do to make it better?” Garza said he believes, as human beings, we should “propel our people” and that “we all should contribute” to helping those in need. “Our goal is to make things better,” he said. Outside of the classroom, Garza said he makes change by organizing and volunteering with those at his church, a long-standing incubator for civil and human rights initiatives. Garza told the AFRO that in his church group, he is very supportive and works toward social justice and equality in his community. He actively participates in rallies supporting police safety and fighting against racial injustice issues. Garza said he honed his own ability to make change by first starting with activism related to voting rights. “Prior to teaching, I did work as a political operative, especially in campaigns. People do consider me politicallyminded and aware of society and certain changes that we should do something about,” he said. Garza believes that his current career in teaching is just one thing he can do to make the world better. He reiterates that “the more you know, the better you make decisions, the better you progress in our world.” Through his history of activism, Garza chooses to teach his students about their surroundings and to stay informed on national and international news. The AFRO asked Garza on what plans he would have for his students in preparation for Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. Day. Garza plans to address the impact of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. with his students in class. He also plans to offer extra credit to his students that attend an event such as a rally or a similar event. “Being a teacher is important. We’re the people who help shape tomorrow,” Garza said. “People who teach should not waste an opportunity [and] should not waste moments.”

“Activism is letting the world know that something is important and [that it] affects all of us.”

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A6 The Afro-American January 13, 2024 - January 19, 2024

Activists who engage with voters of color are looking for messages that will resonate in 2024 By Ayanna Alexander and Gary Fields The Associated Press This year’s elections in Louisiana didn’t go the way that voting rights advocate Ashley Shelton had hoped, with the far-right conservative attorney general replacing a term-limited Democratic governor and consolidating Republican control in the state. Turnout was just 37 percent, despite the efforts of activists like her. “Even when you work hard and you do all the things you’re supposed to, you get an unfortunate outcome, which was these statewide elections,” said Shelton, the executive director of Power Coalition for Equity and Justice in Louisiana. She said it will be a challenge to regain trust from the communities of color she typically focuses on, mostly because of a constant drumbeat of disappointments in recent years, from attacks on voting rights to the failure of a sweeping student loan forgiveness plan. While Louisiana is not a battleground for national races, Shelton’s experience in the state serves as a window into some of the challenges President Joe Biden faces as his reelection campaign plans strategies to engage the diverse communities that helped him win in 2020. Shelton and other activists say they already are looking for messages

“The candidates who are predicted to be at the top of the ballot in 2024 do pose an issue.” that will resonate with voters, despite fighting through their own fatigue. That follows recent polling showing that adults in the United States are broadly unenthusiastic about a rematch between Biden and former President Donald Trump at the top of the ticket. “I don’t have the luxury of being tired or frustrated or exasperated,” she said. “I have to just get back in the community with folks and understand how to reconnect them to the power in their voice.” Voting advocacy groups that were essential to Biden’s victory are coming into the new year expecting to have a difficult time rebuilding the same level of support, especially among voters of color and younger voters. Just 33 percent of non-White adults under age 45 approve of Biden’s job performance, according to the most recent Associated Press-NORC Center for Public Affairs research poll. Just as concerning for the Biden camp is the precipitous drop he has seen overall among Black and Hispanic adults from his first months in office, when his approval rating was 86 percent among Black adults, 63 percent among Hispanic adults and 49 percent among White adults. Now those approval rates stand at 50 percent, 36 percent and 40 percent, respectively.

Democratic campaign strategists say they are encouraging more robust outreach to Black voters in key states. Biden’s campaign said it already is laying the groundwork for just such an effort. Voting activists said they know voters of color are essential for Biden and cited myriad reasons for the drop in support. Among them is the failure to pass a law that would have strengthened voting rights, after numerous Republican-controlled states passed restrictions in the past few years, and Biden’s promise about student loan forgiveness, only to see the Supreme Court kill it. “The candidates who are predicted to be at the top of the ballot in 2024 do pose an issue,” said Lily Trieu, executive director of Asian Texans for Justice. “A lot of young people, especially, are feeling really disillusioned with Biden.” The Rev. Frederick Haynes, president of the Rainbow PUSH Coalition, the Chicago-based civil rights group founded more than 50 years ago by the Rev. Jesse Jackson, said the Democratic Party needs to tell voters what it has accomplished and what it plans to do beyond this year’s election. “Rainbow PUSH will be challenging the administration: What are you doing to get the message through the appropriate mediums to the communities that you say you’re serving?” Haynes said. The Biden campaign agrees and said it is highlighting gains that include delivering on broadband internet access, especially in communities of color, reducing unemployment rates and diversifying the federal judiciary, said Quentin Fulks, the principal deputy campaign manager. Fulks added that the campaign also has begun organizing programs in two crucial states, Arizona and Wisconsin, to communicate with Latino, Black and young voters. “There’s a lot at stake here, and our job as a campaign is to communicate that. But it has to be mixed with also, ‘What have you done for me and what has the administration done and what will this administration continue to do to try to improve the lives of people?’” Fulks said. “Our campaign is not taking our foot off the gas, nor are we taking any of these voters for granted.” The Trump campaign did not respond to multiple requests for comment. The Georgia Black Republican Council also is planning a radio and billboard campaign highlighting issues it thinks are pertinent to Black voters in a state expected to be closely contested. Among the topics are school choice, immigration and abortion. The organization has plans to conduct listening sessions at Black churches across the state. Other voting advocates say their messages to communities of color will range from successes, such as continued low unemployment, to explanations about why priorities such as federal voting and police overhaul legislation failed. Statewide issues will be a critical part of their messaging, highlighting book bans, gerrymandered districts and abortion.

AP Photo/Gerald Herbert

Ashley K. Shelton is executive director of Power Coalition for Equity and Justice in Louisiana, a voter advocacy organization that is trying to get left-leaning voters engaged for this year’s elections. Elsie Cooke-Holmes, international president of Delta Sigma Theta, a historically Black sorority, said her organization is developing a national strategy and will hold webinars with members to fashion strategies for local communities. Even if voters are not excited about the presidential race, they have to be educated about how issues will affect them “not only at the top of the ticket but all the way up and down the ballot,” Cooke-Holmes said. “So much of what has been decided, especially with these voter suppression laws, is certainly at the state level and the local level. We want to make sure that that education happens and that message is crafted.” The groups also plan to highlight some of the direct attacks on their efforts and priorities. Since 2021, for example, about 10 states have attempted to create or increase criminal penalties and fines for individuals and groups that assist voters. Several of those laws faced legal challenges. Recently, a panel of three federal appeals court judges ruled that private individuals and groups do not have the ability to sue under a key section of the Voting Rights Act. It’s another example of an attack on the tools that remain to protect voters, said Cesar Ruiz, an associate counsel with a focus on voting rights for LatinoJustice. Yterenickia Bell, senior director of the And Still I Vote Program at the Leadership Conference Education Fund, will be targeting women of color between age 18 and 35 in 11 states, including Arizona, Georgia, Michigan, Nevada, North Carolina, Pennsylvania and Wisconsin. “We have to remind them when we go to that door that the country is only as successful as the young people who are engaged,” she said, pointing out that many of the front-line civil rights activists of the 1960s were their age at the time. This article was originally published by the Associated Press.

the power to dream BGE joins the citizens of Maryland, and the nation, in remembering Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr., a tireless advocate for civil rights, a passionate believer in social change, and an inspiration for generations to come.

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January 13, 2024 - January 19, 2024 The Afro-American

MLK Jr. Awards honor Maryland Gov. Wes Moore, local civil and human rights activists By Aria Brent AFRO Staff Writer abrent@afro.com On Jan.11 the 36th annual Martin Luther King Jr. Awards were held at the Casino Live Hotel Ballroom, located at 7002 Arundel Mills Cir, Hanover, Md. The event honored trailblazing activists from the Baltimore community for their service and unwavering commitment to the upliftment of the community. A total of 12 honorees received different awards for the work they’ve done all across the state of Maryland. Leading up to the event the AFRO got the chance to speak with some of this year’s honorees about the work they are doing, how it’s helping the community and what this honor means to them. “I’m a very humble person and I was surprised,” said Ralph Thomas, an honoree for the evening. “Everybody keeps telling me it’s well deserved, but to me it’s what I do.” Thomas is a silver life member of the NAACP and has served as the treasurer of the Anne Arundel chapter for about 10 years. In addition to this he has also served as the voter registration coordinator for the chapter for the last 20 years. Through his work as a voter registration coordinator, Thomas has been able to inform his community about their right to vote, all the while assuring they’re in the position to cast their vote when elections come around. Although Thomas is retired, he is still very active in his work with the NAACP. He shared with the AFRO that he doesn’t think the work he does is especially exceptional and he’s simply doing his part in giving back to his community. “My father would always say ‘you can’t always receive, you got to give back’ and to me, it’s giving back,” said Thomas. “I don’t get paid for this, I do this because I enjoy doing it.” Thomas wasn’t the only honoree from this year’s award program to humbly accept the recognition. Retired Annapolis Police Sergeant

“I couldn’t be prouder to receive an award in honor of Morris H. Blum, a champion for civil rights in the state. As governor, I am committed to working together with all Marylanders to tackle the most pressing challenges of our time and restore a spirit of community within us all. ” James Spearman, also recognized at the program, spoke of his surprise to receive such an honor. Spearman said his community-oriented mindset came to him early in his career as a cadet. He recognized the stigma that was attached to the police and he knew that the only way he could dispel that was to gain the trust of the community. “Standing in the criminal justice system, I’m able to connect people and provide them with resources, where they’re needed and all of that,” said Spearman. “I learned that you have to develop relationships and it’s not just within the agency. You have to be able to relate to people outside of the department and over time I’ve developed many different relationships with many different people.” Spearman was this year’s Peacemaker Award recipient and well within reason. Throughout his time with the Annapolis police department he was known for his kind heart and understanding mindset that helped the citizens he served not only trust but look to him as a resource for their needs. The former HotSpot Team Leader spent over three decades serving the Annapolis community. His work has been recognized by the governor’s office, the Annapolis mayor’s office and the Annapolis city council. Spearman noted that although some of the situations he’s faced during his career weren’t easy to handle, having the trust and respect of the community helped a lot. Approaching every situation with the want to empathize on his agenda and compassion in his heart, the former law enforcement leader noted that he was able to successfully serve his community because he took the time to learn what they needed. “We developed relationships with members of the community. The focus was to deal with the people who were causing problems in the neighborhood, whether it be through enforcement, or through getting them help,” explained Spearman. “Over time, we gained a lot of trust with the members of the community because we were there all the time. People got to know us, we got to know them.They didn’t see the badge in a uniform anymore, they saw the human being, and vice versa.” Although Spearman is retired, he currently mentors youth through programs like Brandon’s Coalition for Success and the Be Present Program, both of which are keeping him very in tune with the issues that the youth in his community are facing. “There are a lot of things that kids go through that we overlook, and we take for granted,” Spearman explained. “It’s very important through dealing with our kids that they have somebody that they can talk to. having somebody they can they can rely on and confide in” Aside from local members of the community, this year’s honoree list also included Wes Moore, who recieved the Morris H. Blum award for his commitment to preserving Black history in the state. Moore told the AFRO how much the award means to him and how honored he is to continue the legacy of King and Morris. L Blum. “I couldn’t be prouder to receive an award in honor of Morris H. Blum, a champion for civil rights in the state. As governor, I am committed to working together with all Marylanders to tackle the most pressing challenges of our time and restore a spirit of community within us all,” said Gov. Moore, in a statement sent to the AFRO. “Through Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.’s legacy, we learned about the power every citizen has to make change.We’re going to make Maryland the state that those who came before us hoped for, and those who come after us deserve.” Other community leaders honored at the Jan. 11 program included Jared Littmann; Retired Lt. Col. Joseph Butler; Delegate Bonnie Cullison; Midshipman First Class Kaylah Gillums; Erica Griswold; The Harris Family Foundation Inc.; Roslyn Johnson; Dana Schallheim and Midshipman First Class Max Josef Bueno.

The Harris Family Foundation receives the Coretta Scott King Award this year for their work in supporting local churches, little league sports and other local clubs.

Delegate Bonnie Cullison is the Courageous Leadership Awardee for her four terms of service representing District 19, Montgomery County, in the Maryland House of Delegates.

Dana Schallheim, Alan Legum Civil Rights Award winner, is steadfast in her work for the Board of Education of Anne Arundel County.

Jarred Littman, an entrepreneur and community leader, is the recipient of the We Share the Dream Award, given on Jan. 11 by the Martin Luther King Jr. Committee of Anne Arundel County in Maryland.

Joseph Butler is the recipient of the Wiley H. Bates Legacy Award. Butler has devoted hours to volunteer work and community service by helping prepare income taxes for senior citizens with the Volunteer Income Tax Assistance Program.

Erica Griswold works for Anne Arundel County’s Orphan’s Court as the Register of Wills. She is passionate about this opportunity to serve her community and is one of four recipients of the Drum Major Award.

This year, Midshipman First Class Kaylah Gillums is honored with the Drum Major Award for her continuous service in the community. Gillums has volunteered for four years with the Midshipman Black Studies Club and the MAG among many other things like mentoring and tutoring local youth in Anne Arundel County as part of the Mids for Kids initiative.

Midshipman First Class Max Josef Bueno is president of the largest and most impactful community outreach organization on campus, the Midshipmen Action Group (MAG). One of many examples of Bueno’s support of MAG is his work relaunching in-person programs for local youth in public schools post-COVID-19. He is a recipient of the Drum Major award this year for his outstanding service in his community.

James Spearman is recipient of this year’s Peacemaker Award for his 33 years of service to the Annapolis Police Department and community.

Gov. Wes Moore is proud to receive the Morris H. Blum Award for his commitment to preserving Black contributions and history in the state of Maryland.

Ralph Thomas is this year’s recipient of the Drum Major Award for his continued work and unwavering dedication to the Anne Arundel chapter of the NAACP and their voter registration efforts.

It’s almost been a full year since Roslyn Johnson was hired as City of Annapolis’ director of the Annapolis Department of Recreation and Parks. Prior to this position Johnson worked for years on civil rights initiatives in Annapolis, including the historic Stanton Center Capital Improvements plan and the famous Carrs and Elktonia Beach revivals. This year she is the recipient of the Dream Keepers Award.

A8 The Afro-American January 13, 2024 - January 19, 2024

On the frontlines: Black women have always led in the fight to save America’s democracy By Robert J. Walker Special to the AFRO

Black women have been on the front line in the battle to save democracy in America for centuries. From Sojourner Truth, JoAnn Gibson Robinson and Fannie Lou Hamer, to the present day with Black women such as District Judge of Washington, D.C. Tanya Chutkan, Attorney General of New York Letitia James and Georgia election workers Ruby Freeman and her daughter, Wandrea “Shaye” Moss, the dedication of Black women to democracy has been proven. Saving America’s democracy in their time Sojourner Truth and Harriet Tubman fought to end slavery in America and helped to end the perpetuation of America’s original sin—slavery, and thus helped to save America’s democracy in their time. Rosa Parks, JoAnn Gibson Robinson and Fannie Lou Hamer fought to end America’s Jim Crow era and moved America closer to being a democracy for all citizens.

AP/Photo Sojourner Truth was an American abolitionist and evangelist. She was born into slavery, but escaped with her infant daughter to freedom in 1826. She was an outspoken advocate for ending the evil system of slavery in America. She was a champion of temperance, civil rights and women’s rights.

Harvey B. Lindsley/Library of Congress via AP Harriet Tubman was an American abolitionist and social activist. After escaping slavery, she conducted more than 13 missions to rescue enslaved people in the south, including her family and friends, using the network of antislavery activists and safe houses known as the “Underground Railroad.”

AP Photo Fannie Lou Hamer was a leader in the Civil Rights Movement. She was a voting and women’s rights activist, health equity advocate and community organizer. She also served as the vice-chair of the Mississippi Freedom Democratic Party, which she represented at the 1964 Democratic National Convention. In collaboration with the Student Nonviolent Coordinating Committee (SNCC), Hamer organized Mississippi’s Freedom Summer. She was also a co-founder of the National Women’s Political Caucus, an organization created to recruit, train and support women of all races who were running for elected office. Hamer famously summed up the pain, indignity, emotional and physical health drain African Americans suffered in the state of Mississippi under the state’s oppressive Jim Crow system by stating, “All my life I’ve been sick and tired. Now I’m sick and tired of being sick and tired.”

U.S. District Court Judge Tanya Chutkan, Attorney General of New York Letitia James, and District Attorney for Fulton County, Georgia Fani Willis, and election workers Ruby Freeman and Wandrea “Shaye” Moss, in spite of attacks from Donald Trump and his followers, have not wavered in their commitment to the Constitution, the bedrock principle of our nation. They are proving that no one is above the law and ensuring that America’s democracy remains intact. A debt of gratitude America owes a great debt of gratitude to Black women in all walks of life. They are one of the strongest and most reliable voting groups in America. Black women have always led in the fight to save America’s democracy—to make this nation a more perfect union. Even today, Black women continue to fight the good fight of faith by demanding that America, as Martin Luther King Jr. said, live out the true meaning of its creed: “We hold these truths to be self-evident: that all men are created equal.” Throughout the history of America—and especially now—Black women have never left the battlefield of the fight to save America’s democracy.

AP Photo/Khue Bui Rosa Parks was an American activist. She sparked the Montgomery Bus Boycott and the Civil Rights movement by refusing to give up her seat on a city bus in Montgomery Alabama to a White man.

Administrative Office of the U.S. Courts via AP, File Judge Tanya Chutkan is serving the U.S. District Court for the District of Columbia. She is the presiding judge in the trial of former president Donald Trump, who is currently dealing with legal problems related to his alleged attempts to overturn the result of the 2020 presidential election, and his part in the attack on the United States Capitol on Jan. 6, 2021.

Courtesy of Amsterdam News JoAnn Gibson Robinson was an English professor at Alabama State College (now Alabama State University). After Rosa Parks’ arrest, it was Robinson who came up with the idea of a bus boycott. The night after Rosa Parks’ arrest, Robinson secretly went to the English department at Alabama State College and printed flyers using the English department’s mimeograph machine. She, along with a student helper, distributed the flyers that night. The flyers told the African-American community to stop riding the buses and come to a mass meeting at the Dexter Avenue Baptist Church. Robinson was also instrumental in convincing Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. to serve as leader of the boycott.

AP Photo/Ted Shaffrey Letitia James is the Attorney General of New York. She is the first African American and first woman to be elected to the position. She obtained her juris doctor degree at the historically Black institution of Howard University in Washington, D.C. James is leading a civil investigation and lawsuit against the Trump Organization and several individuals, including members of the Trump family, for allegedly engaging in financial fraud by presenting vastly overstated property values to potential lenders and understating property value to tax officials, in violation of New York state law.

AP Photo/Jacquelyn Martin AP Photo/Brynn Anderson Fani Willis is the district attorney for Fulton County, Ga. She is the first woman to hold this office. Willis is leading a criminal investigation into Donald Trump’s attempts to influence Georgia election officials—including the governor, the attorney general and Secretary of State Brad Raffensperger to “find 11,780 votes,” enough votes to nullify Joe Biden’s win in that state and therefore overturn Biden’s victory in the 2020 presidential election.

Ruby Freeman (right) and her daughter, Wandrea “Shaye” Moss were employees in the Fulton County Department of Registration and Elections. They became the target of a vicious smear campaign in 2020 by then-President Trump and his allies such as the former mayor of New York City, Rudy Giuliani, who were seeking to overturn 2020 election results. Freeman and Moss received so many racist taunts and death threats that they were forced to go into hiding. Giuliani had claimed that Freeman and Moss were “passing around USB ports like they were vials of heroin or cocaine.” In reality, they were passing a ginger mint.

January 13, 2024 - January 19, 2024 The Afro-American A9

Reliability rests on his shoulders. There’s a source of energy in Virginia as reliable as any in the world: our employees. It’s their hard work – braving storms, servicing power lines, and building a smarter and more secure power grid – that brings you the dependable electricity you’ve come to expect. Our employees’ dedication to every community they serve is at the heart of everything we do.

A10 The Afro-American January 13, 2024 - January 19, 2024

January 13, 2024 - January 19, 2024 The Afro-American

Top five ways to be an activist in 2024 4. Organize your own

2. Join the march

By Sabreen Dawud Special to the AFRO

Activism is an evolving form of resistance. As technology, communication and communities continue to change, the methods activists use to champion social change have shifted. Still, the question remains, what are the most effective ways to show up for a cause in this new day and age? This week, the AFRO focuses on the legacy of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. and all those who are walking in the spirit of his legacy by pushing for change on a local, national or international level. Are you willing to lift your voice for a cause you believe in this year? Read below to find the top five ways you can affect change in your community.

It is important to use your voice and joining a march is the perfect opportunity to do so. While organized marches are certainly not a new method of activism, they remain a memorable form of protest. Showing up in great numbers and coming together as a community to physically demonstrate your passion for change is a method of activism that continues to shake the table. A simple way to stay informed about any upcoming marches in your area is to follow social activist accounts online and keep an eye out for any announcements.

5. Volunteer

AFRO File Photo Unsplash/George Pagan III

Can’t join the march or protest event in person? Social media is a great way to keep the conversation going and show support for topics that need more attention.

1. Social media outreach With an array of social media apps available, there are several opportunities for social media users to spread the word about a particular cause. A notable aspect of activism is educating members of society on the social issue they seek to change. Whether posting protest flyers, infographics or updates from professional media outlets, on a day-to-day basis apps can be a useful way to increase involvement and inform others.

Though organizing can be easier said than done, there is no denying that it is a key element in activism. When there is an ongoing social issue, there is a need for someone to take initiative. Partnering with socially involved organizations in your community to host informative events, protests or town halls can have an influence on the issues your community is facing. If local action feels too small, push for larger scale initiatives. Any level of activism is sure to contribute to the overarching conflict. Amplify your voice in 2024 by joining with like-minded individuals that are willing to plan, organize and follow through with the business of making change in the community.

Civil disobedience has long been a tool in the arsenal used by activists to make change. From fair housing and education to civil and human rights, marching and peaceful protest are still used today to call attention to important issues.

3. Boycotting goods Money fuels many of the ongoing systems within society. Therefore, if there is a shift in revenue, a corporation will undoubtedly notice. If a corporation is tied to an issue you are against, an impactful way to show your commitment to change is through boycotting. While it can seem challenging to withhold from purchasing products you may use often, finding alternatives is always an option. Any small act can help create the change you’d like to see and boycotting has proven to drive corporations to listen.

If you’re not much of an event organizer or are simply looking for hands-on ways to make an impact in your community, volunteering may be right for you. Many local civil action organizations, community food banks, schools and Unsplash/OCG Saving The Ocean houses of Volunteering with an organization worship organize events that is already working to improve the community is one way to make change that allow without the responsibility of being an volunteers to event organizer. aid in giving back to the community. Whether assisting in providing goods to those who are financially insecure or providing services at an event that raises money for a cause, volunteering can be a powerful means of activism.

Commentary

Don’t give up - keep fighting for your political power By Tommy Stallworth

Every American deserves to be respected and reflected by their government. The right to vote is about the ability to be seen and heard by people who make consequential decisions that impact your life, your family and your community. It’s about real power. Right now, in Detroit — one of the Blackest cities in America — there is an effort underway funded by a group of nakedly partisan activists to strip away that power and deny people their fundamental, constitutional right to representation. In 2018, Michiganders voted overwhelmingly to establish an independent citizens redistricting commission and redraw the state’s House and Senate districts. In the first election with those new, fair maps in 2022, Democrats won the state house and senate after 40 years of Republican gerrymandering. All the work that happened in 2023 proved what happens when you have a legislature that respects and reflects the people — the people win. Led by Joe Tate (D-Detroit), the first Black Speaker of the House,

“The right to vote is about the ability to be seen and heard by people who make consequential decisions that impact your life, your family and your community. “ Winnie Brinks (D-Grand Rapids), the first woman Senate Majority Leader, and Sarah Anthony, the first Black woman to chair the Senate Appropriations Committee in Michigan history, the legislature, and

Courtesy photo

Tommy Stallworth is a former member of the Michigan legislature where he was chairman of the Michigan Legislative Black Caucus.

Gov. Gretchen Whitmer (D) delivered tangible results. With this new, more representative majority under the leadership of multiple Black committee chairs, they cut taxes for working-class families to lift 25,000 kids out of poverty, built more housing, delivered free breakfast and lunch for every student and made a range of other investments in Michigan’s greatest resource— it’s people. Now, all that progress is at risk. There is an effort underway to force the redrawing of some of those districts. While that effort may be couched in officialsounding legalese and seemingly come from a sincere place, it is motivated by one thing: power. The lawsuit to redraw these maps is being led by John Bursch, a

man most famous for his repeated attempts to erase the rights and freedoms of fellow Michiganders. He is the “Beetlejuice” of conservative movements, appearing in lawsuits to strip away basic LGBTQ+ rights, gut workers’ right to organize and use public money to fund private schools. Now, Bursch is once again on the forefront of a power grab backed by well-funded interest groups who want to prevent the Democratic majority in the Michigan Legislature from doing their jobs. They can dress it up any way they want, but their end goal is the same as it has been for people throughout American history who have stood on the floor of the United States Senate and across bridges in Selma: Take power away from you. They are counting on your cynicism. They want you to look away and be discouraged from exercising your political power going forward. They hope that you will be discouraged from showing up and exercising your power to build a government that looks like and fights for you. Do not let them win. As we approach Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.’s 95th birthday, we must carry on his mission. While his movements for civil rights and voting rights were successful, he is no longer with us, but those who seek to deny us the ability to make consequential decisions about our lives, families and communities still are. On voting rights, Dr. King once said, “The denial of this sacred right is a tragic betrayal of the highest mandates of our democratic tradition.” Our task is simple: Do not look away. We must continue fighting their efforts to appease us with symbolic representation and work together to build real political power that delivers lasting change. Let’s keep fighting for our sacred right. This article was originally published in the Michigan Chronicle.

The opinions of this author are not necessarily those of the AFRO. Send letters to The Afro-American ∙ 233 E. Redwood Street, Suite 600G Baltimore, MD 21202 or fax to 1-877-570-9297 or e-mail to editor@afro.com

B2 The Afro-American January 13, 2024 - January 19, 2024

Meet Corryn Grace Freeman: The woman investing in future activists By Tawanda W. Johnson Special to the AFRO Before Corryn Grace Freeman accepted the role of executive director at Future Coalition in 2023, her friend sent her the job description and told her, “This looks like you.” The mission of the organization, which began in 2017 as March On/ Future Coalition, is to provide resources to help young people effect change in their communities. The organization was instrumental in helping mobilize events such as March on for Voting Rights, Earth Day Live and March on the Polls. “I decided to be an executive director of an organization like this because I genuinely believe that younger people deserve a seat at the table,” said Freeman. “A lot of the innovation that we need is in young people.” Freeman, 34, who resides in Fort Lauderdale, Fla., beams with pride as she discusses some of Future Coalition’s programs. For example, its Future

Incubator helps youth-led and grassroots groups with professional tools to operate organizations that focus on social movements. “We have Abundant Beginnings in California, a school that is nurturing the

grants through our Youth Direction Action Fund grant,” she explained. The organization’s work has had a profound impact on Zero Hour, which works to elevate the voices of young people in the fight against

“I decided to be an executive director of an organization like this because I genuinely believe that younger people deserve a seat at the table. A lot of the innovation that we need is in young people.” next generation of young activists,” she said with a bright smile. “There’s also the Youth Direction Action Fund, which provides grants to young organizers leading community justice work.” “We service about 500 people a year and give out about $800,000 annually in

climate change. “It gave Zero Hour a home to plan and build the U.S. climate strikes in 2019, and the virtual mobilization for Earth Day in 2020,” said Zanagee Artis, a founding member and executive director of the organization. Freeman’s passion for helping young people

Photo courtesy of Corryn Grace Freeman

Corryn Grace Freeman is hoping to change lives by teaching the younger generation how to engage in activism via her organization, Future Coalition. make a difference in their communities can be traced back to her upbringing in Columbia, Md. Her parents – the Rev. Dr. Bowyer G. and Terri Lee Freeman – stressed to their family the importance of lending a helping hand to those in need. They also taught by example. Bowyer was a longtime pastor in the Baltimore region and served as the former NAACP president in the Howard County Chapter.

Terri Lee Freeman has held various high-profile roles at museums, including her current position as president of the Reginald F. Lewis Museum. “They made it very clear to us that we had a responsibility to not only stay where we are but to bring the collective with us,” she said, adding, “None of us are free until all of us are free.” In addition to her parents, Freeman said her experience as a Howard University student played an integral

role in her development as a social activist. “I learned a lot about our history and was able to connect with different types of activists,” she recalled. “I believe in liberation, and I take a Black feminist approach to my organization, which is about inclusion, hearing other people’s voices, and not necessarily abiding by hierarchical structures.” Follow Future Coalition on Instagram or email the organization at futurecoaliton. org.

We are proud to present a reprint of the AFRO book “This is Our War,” from seven AFRO war correspondents! The war continued for Black soldiers when they returned home from WWII, and this war still rages today. “This is Our War” not only preserves our history but lives on as a testament to the ongoing pursuit of justice.

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January 13, 2024 - January 19, 2024 The Afro-American

How Knicole Mosby-Taylor works to empower Maryland’s youth population By Jannette J. Witmyer Special to the AFRO

Knicole Mosby-Taylor, founding and executive director of Empowering Minds of Maryland’s Youth (EMMY), planted the seeds of her mission to uplift Baltimore’s young people in 2003. At the time, she was organizing an informal mentoring program for nine young girls in the living room of her home. In 2009, EMMY officially became a 501(c) (3) organization, providing outreach programs for youth, mentorship programs, anti bullying conferences, Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCU) tours, after school programs and a variety of other organizations. Mosby-Taylor traces her passion for community service back to experiences as a child volunteering at church and organizations like Our Daily Bread. She worked alongside her late mother and role model, Eunice Orange. She says that she began as most kids do: she did as she was told. But after a while, she found that really enjoyed it. She attributes her interest in working with youth to another childhood experience, being bullied

in middle school. She describes it as “relational aggression.” “I always felt like I was an outsider and that really affected me,” said MosbyTaylor. “Then, God just put something in my heart when I went to high school. I was able to not only stand up to the bullies for myself, but I also was able to stand up to them for other people.” Mosby-Taylor, who earned a bachelor’s degree in social work, says EMMY has worked to address a variety of issues faced by young people, far beyond bullying. “We started doing our anti-bullying campaign, where we hosted a oneday conference centered on anti-bullying,” MosbyTaylor shared. “From there, we turned to dating and domestic violence, and interpersonal relationships. We did a leadership symposium as well.” “Right now, we’re in the process of planning our first annual cotillion on April 13. With the cotillion, we’re teaching the girls etiquette, poise, how to love themselves, how to truly love themselves, how to give back to others and things of that sort,” said Mosby-Taylor.

trash bags. So, we wanted to bless them with a brand new suitcase that they can carry

Photo courtesy of Knicole Mosby-Taylor

Knicole Mosby-Taylor serves her community by passionately igniting the flame of self-confidence in local youth.

EMMY stresses the importance of role models and mentors to empower its girls, and in January 2023, the group traveled to Atlanta and participated in Marjorie Harvey’s Girls Who Rule the World Mentoring Program. Locally, in partnership with Inspiring Change Mental Health Services, EMMY created a retreat filled with activities ranging from archery to making prom dresses out of newspaper and holding workshops on self-esteem.

The retreat ended with an affirmation and an open-flame ceremony, which allowed the girls to symbolically throw unwanted behaviors into the fire, leaving them behind. Mosby-Taylor takes great pride in the organization’s Annual Foster Care Drop-off Suitcase Drive, now in its third year, and how it allows EMMY to uplift youth in a sorely underserved community. “Foster-care youth go from home to home with

“God just put something in my heart when I went to high school. I was able to not only stand up to the bullies for myself, but I also was able to stand up to them for other people.” to make their travel and their transition just a little easier,” she explained. She is especially appreciative of the support that the Steve and Marjorie Harvey Foundation has provided for the past two years, by partnering with EMMY for the drive and supporting its mission. The brainchild of EMMY board member Lorraine Hanson, the drive honors

the memory of her mom, Delores Hanson, and aunt, Ella Mae Ford. For Mosby-Taylor, it’s extremely important for the girls to see that they can succeed, and they’ve seen it firsthand when meeting and working with past EMMY participants like Cynthia Johnson, now a cosmetics engineer with her own company, Cindy J Labs. “Basically, we have been able to live up to our name by just empowering our youth, whatever that looks like, partnering with other organizations or doing it ourselves,” she said. Mosby-Taylor wants their empowerment to translate into success. “The impact that I want to make on these young ladies is an everlasting opportunity to change some of their trajectories. To help them to be able to dream and realize that those dreams are nothing, if they don’t follow through,” she said. “We want to help them to be able to establish SMART goals, and we’re working to help them learn how to do that.” To learn more about EMMY and its programs, visit their website at https:// www.empoweringyouthusa. net/.

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B4 The Afro-American January 13, 2024 - January 19, 2024

Meet Justin Naylor: An exceptional role model in school and community By Amelia Uduafemeh Special to the AFRO

Justin Naylor is a junior at Joppatowne High School in Harford County, Md. who has found numerous ways to better his school and community. Naylor told the AFRO that he enjoys being a member of the school community. The teen says “showing leadership, sportsmanship and teamwork” are important to him, along with setting an example by “being a team captain, friend and mentor to many.” Naylor has participated in numerous community service projects as an Eagle Scout, making a significant contribution to the school and the larger community. His scouting-derived leadership abilities have been put to use in projects that encourage positive change, such as planning neighborhood clean-ups, volunteering or running educational initiatives. “I am most motivated to get engaged in my community because I enjoy witnessing great changes that occur

in other people, the community and the environment,” Naylor said. His motivating factor is going to bed at night knowing that he made a positive difference in someone’s life by uniting people and improving the environment.

“I am most motivated to get engaged in my community because I enjoy witnessing great changes that occur in other people, the community and the environment.”

Courtesy photo

Justin Naylor is a leader within his community and a member track team, where he encourages others to believe in themselves in addition to creating positive change.

“In order to make my community better, I needed other people to help me,” Naylor explained. Although it is true that one individual can change the world, having assistance makes things much easier. Naylor was able to organize events

like a food drive, and environmental clean-up after he found like-minded people who wanted to give back. Despite the fact that Naylor gives a lot to the community, he often faces many challenges such as time constraints, balancing commitments and coordinating efforts.

His principles have been shaped, his leadership abilities have grown and his general perspective on life has improved as a result of this. He has discovered after many years of giving back that there is always a person or thing in need of a little assistance, and he wants to be the one who

provides it. As he frequently receives support from his school, fellow Scouts, coaches, teammates and even locals who offer information, encouragement or help, Naylor says the community is always eager to lend a hand. This assistance can take many different forms, such as taking part in activities, donating money for projects or even just being recognized for his hard work. “My Eagle Scout Project is one of my personal triumphs. It required six months of planning, organizing and [implementation] totaling over 200-man hours,” Naylor shared. “Guiding my community to construct four picnic tables for Joppatowne Elementary School was my mission, and on July 31 the project was completed.” His project was a huge success because a large portion of the community helped out, and the tables turned out great. Keeping up community involvement while

balancing education and other obligations might be challenging, but Naylor says it is something he wants to do rather than something he has to do. He also learned that people may find a way to make things work if they think it essential enough to include in their schedule. It takes responsibility and efficient time management for him to continue being involved in his community. “My advice for others who want to make a difference is if you’re aiming to change the world, first, find something you’re passionate about, and it has to resonate with you. Commit to it. Dive deep into your cause,” said Naylor. “Stay authentic and be persistent. Embrace challenges as opportunities for growth. Remember, the world needs more than talk, it needs action. Remember that someone has to change the world and if not you then who?” Amelia Uduafemeh is a member of the AFRO Youth Media Corps.

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January 13, 2024 - January 19, 2024 The Afro-American B5

A voice for Black men and boys: Meet Reginald Williams, the journalist advocating for change By Karyn Cook Special to the AFRO

“I needed to write the book. It was me telling a story for all these years, for young Black boys and men– not giving them a voice,but amplifying a voice no one ever hears.”

This week, the AFRO salutes activists of all walks of life– including the journalists who have added to the history, reach and legacy of this publication. Read below to learn more about Reginald Williams, AFRO freelance writer, former editor and advocate for the mental and physical health of Black men and boys. 1. What made you get into journalism/writing for the AFRO? I’m originally from North Carolina. Prior to moving here, I ran a music production company and wanted to be considered an expert in the field of business and music. I ended up writing a series of articles. I wrote three articles and Durham Harrell, the editor at that time, asked me to do more. It was the start of my writing career, but at that time I didn’t realize that. 2. What subjects and topics are important to you? I work primarily around Black men in terms of health, education, physical fitness—anything to do with the social emotional health of Black men and Black boys. 3. Do you have a career beyond being a writer? I’m a behavioral health consultant and I work primarily with Black men, who we call high risk. I also work with youth. I consult with organizations trying to find solutions to problems around Black boys and Black men. I have done all kinds of things in the field of behavioral health. Rev. Boulware, AFRO special projects editor, called me two years ago after I published a book that was doing well. She asked if I wanted to write again– this time about Black men. 4. Tell us about your background. Who inspired you to do this work? I grew up in North Carolina, my grandfather was a man of the community. He gave people rides, advice and things of that nature. His name was Casey Williams. What I didn’t realize growing up was that I was watching him and being affected by his life and his example. My desire coming out of school was to play basketball. I found myself in church, as an adult, heading a men’s ministry–Mount Zion in Virginia. That was my first work with men, it took off from there. I ran the ministries and I did things different that got the attention of other ministries. Eventually, I connected with people in that space. I was invited to conferences to discuss my thought processes and ideas of working with men. I stumbled upon this career, but I was kind of nurtured because I saw my grandfather do something similar, it was fate. It was meant for me.

AFRO Photo / Stephen Hopkins

Reginald Williams is a champion for issues related to Black men. He has spent the better part of the last two decades trying to make a positive difference in the lives of Black males– both young and old. 5. What inspired you to write your book? As a journalist back in the day, I always had people asking me when I was going to write a book. However, I never had any intention of writing a book. Around 2009, Dick Gregory and I were on a television show on a panel. During a commercial break, he turns and says to me,“Young man, you need to write a book.” It stuck. I didn’t know what to write about, but I was going to see clients in jail, talking to people, all these things I had done for years. I decided I needed to get these stories out. I was just writing stuff down and it was just a way to get things out. I wrote four chapters, put it in a bag, under a desk and it sat there for three years. For a period, I was uncomfortable and couldn’t figure out what to do. There were two things hanging out in my spirit:

Either I should go back to school to get a master’s degree in agriculture education or write a book. I didn’t really have the patience to go back to school, so I said I’d write a book. I didn’t know what else to write at that point, so at the time, I was a program manager for a violence prevention program that dealt with gangs. We had bi-monthly nationwide meetings where we would talk about what was going on in our program. We had featured speakers, there were people who gave keynotes and there was a White woman in her mid 50s from the Midwest. I thought to myself, “What is this White woman going to tell me about Black neighborhoods and what it’s like being a Black boy?” She shook my world. I was writing stuff down and I was overwhelmed. After hearing her talk, she gave me everything I needed to write the book. It was me telling a story for all these years, for young Black boys and men– not giving them a voice, but amplifying a voice no one ever hears. 6. What is the importance of Black owned media and newspapers like the AFRO? We get to tell our story in a way we need to tell it. It’s our voice–it’s not muted. It’s spoken in a dialect– a language– that we understand. That should always be done unapologetically. 7.What does the AFRO mean to you? When I first came here, in 2001, I hadn’t gone to school for journalism, I didn’t have any scope of the “journalism thing.” I was in a meeting and the CEO of the AFRO at the time, Charles Owens, was there. He said, “Today’s story is tomorrow’s history.” I had never thought of that. I never thought in 200 years, someone would pull a story from the AFRO vault and say, “Reggie Williams wrote that story.” See more on afro.com

B6 The Afro-American January 13, 2024 - January 19, 2024

Devan Southerland: A voice for parents with children on the autism spectrum By Tawanda W. Johnson Special to the AFRO While growing up in McElderry Park in Baltimore during the 1980s, Devan Southerland’s mother, Debra Sorrell, taught her valuable lessons about advocacy. Not only did Sorrell take a bad landlord to court, but she wrote a letter to the mayor about her concerns with the city housing department. She also advocated for her daughter when teachers refused to believe that Southerland couldn’t see from the back of the room. “When I think of activism, I think about it [being] the most barebones way of speaking up for yourself,” Southerland told the AFRO,

“When I think of activism, I think about it [being] the most barebones way of speaking up for yourself.” recalling the actions of her mother. At the heart of her mother’s advocacy, Sutherland says there was a simple wish: to ensure that her children grew up feeling “safe and secure.” Those early advocacy lessons inspired Southerland who, in 2015, started Brown on the Spectrum as an online support for Black moms with autistic children. Her son Liam, 16, was diagnosed with autism at age four. “When my son was three, he didn’t ask a lot of questions. He would repeat commercials,” Southerland remembered. For support, she searched for groups of Black moms with autistic children, but

Photo courtesy of Devan Southerland

Devan Southerland is a champion for families overcoming the challenges of autism as a result of her experiences with her son Liam, who is on the autism spectrum. was unsuccessful, so she started her own organization. “It began as a place where parents could find a picture of a Brown child who is autistic, with resources and services,” said Southerland, adding that her Facebook group

Thursday, January 18, 2024 6 - 8 p.m.

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On January 18, 2024, the Maryland Department of Transportation (MDOT) will host an Open House for the Reisterstown Plaza Metro Station Transit-Oriented Development Master Plan. A Maryland Transit-Oriented Development or (TOD) is a dense, mixed-use deliberately-planned development within a one-half mile of a transit station that is designed to increase and enhance transit ridership. Join us at the Open House to: • learn more about this effort, • ask questions and • provide input regarding what enhancements you think are needed to improve connections and accessibility in the area Open House materials will be made available here: http://bit.ly/41rtR90

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now boasts more than 1,200 followers. Southerland also drew inspiration from her mom who raised three children amid many

challenges, including learning how to address the special needs of her younger sister Alesha, who is autistic. Both Sorrell and Southerland sought help through Kennedy Krieger Institute, a nonprofit organization in Baltimore that helps children and young adults with special needs. As Liam grew older and completed his service-learning hours for high school graduation, Brown on the Spectrum expanded to help families connect with community organizations willing to help autistic children learn job skills. “I like working with Brown on the Spectrum because it’s fun. It most definitely helps me to get good work experience,” said Liam, who aspires to attend Coppin State University. The teen is interested in careers in law enforcement and real estate. To further the goal of working with community groups, last fall, Southerland received a $60,000 fellowship from Open Society Institute-Baltimore (OSI), which supports activists who are doing the necessary work in underserved communities in the city. She also serves as a board member on Itineris, an organization in Baltimore that supports adults with autism. “Devan has been a very important voice in getting out information to her followers about Itineris and many options that they may not be aware of for support,” said Ami Taubenfeld, the organization’s executive director. As 2024 kicks off, Southerland shows no plans of slowing down– especially now that she is an OSI fellow, which she s ays has given her “the opportunity to speak and connect with larger organizations that are doing great work for young people and adults with autism.”

Leading the charge: Gun safety advocate Celeste Iroha speaks on advocating for change after loss By Catherina Pugh Special to the AFRO Celeste Iroha has been a self-proclaimed activist since the age of 15 years old. “I lost one of my cousins’ when I was 12 in D.C. His funeral was the first I would have to go to,” recalls Iroha. “I am also a survivor of a shooting, resulting from domestic violence. I was 14 years old in an abusive relationship. I was targeted because they did not want me to share what was going on in that relationship. I was able to get out.” Over the years, Iroha has lost some of those closest to her due to gun violence– including a best friend and a favorite uncle. Now, at 27-years old, she serves as president and founder of the organization, Enough of Gun Violence, an advocacy platform to end gun violence in America. “I started Enough of Gun Violence because I wanted to create something that is youth led and survivor led,” said Iroha. “I want our voices to be heard. America has to see that we are tired of this violence.” As of Jan. 5 Iroha is a proud graduate of Trinity College, and is planning to pursue a law degree. She has already appeared on various national platforms to advocate for gun safety. On March 14, 2023, she spoke at a rally organized by Generation Lockdown, where she shared her story on how gun violence had impacted her life. “We are planning a funeral type of rally and demonstration on Capitol Hill from March 18 -21, in Washington, D.C. We

Photo courtesy of Celeste Iroha

Celeste Iroha (left) works with legislators like Congresswoman Lucy McBath (D-Ga.-7) to raise awareness about gun safety laws. will have body bags so that Congress can see what they are doing to our families,” she said, speaking on the need for a visual representation of what gun violence does to the community.

“I lost one of my cousins when I was 12 in D.C. His funeral was the first I would have to go to.” Iroha considers Congresswoman Lucy McBath (D-Ga-7), who lost her son in 2012 to gun violence, a strong advocate and supporter of her cause for stronger gun laws. She also includes Congressman Jaamal Bowman (D-N.Y.-16) of New York, and Congressman Maxwell Frost (D-Fla.-10) of Central Florida, as allies in the fight for adequate gun control laws.

“President Biden has done a lot with the establishment of the Office of Gun Violence Prevention, but we need the ban on assault weapons,” Iroha told the AFRO. “The federal assault weapon ban enacted in 1994 expired in 2004. They are being used in mass shootings. No one needs an AR15 or an AK-47 to protect themselves.” Iroha is also the president of the Unified Foundation, which she started in October 2023. The organization is focused on giving back to communities that face disasters– to include homelessness. “This organization will also raise money for scholarships for our young people,” said Iroha. As a full-time employee in the healthcare field, Iroha still finds time to dedicate energy to the causes that matter to her. “Every day when I come home, I work on these issues– changing gun legislation, advocating against domesticviolence and better healthcare provisions.”

January 13, 2024 - January 19, 2024 The Afro-American B7

Word In Black to grow Black media’s legacy, impact Through a new public benefit corporation, the site and its 10 publishers double down on their commitment to truth and democracy. By Liz Courquet-Lesaulnier Word in Black In 1828, two New Yorkers — Samuel Cornish and John B. Russworm — got so fed up with the White press’ distorted and false depictions of Black people, that they did what our ancestors have always done to make change: They took action. “We wish to plead our own cause. Too long have others spoken for us,” the duo wrote on the front page of the first issue of Freedom’s Journal, the first Black newspaper in the United States. At long last, Black stories would be told from Black perspectives. Nearly two centuries later, the struggle continues. That’s why in 2020, 10 of the nation’s leading Black publishers, with 800 plus years of collective experience, responded to the systemic racism in the mainstream press and the murder of George Floyd by banding together to form Word In Black. Now Word In Black’s publishers — AFRO News; The Atlanta Voice; Dallas Weekly; Houston Defender; Michigan Chronicle; New York Amsterdam News; The Sacramento Observer; The Seattle Medium; The St. Louis American and The Washington Informer — are doubling down on their commitment to the Black community by investing even more in news that tells the truth, serves the community, and bends the arc of the moral universe toward justice. To that end, on Jan. 1, Word In Black officially incorporated as a public benefit company. “This is a day to celebrate an important step in the evolution of Word In Black,” Dr. Frances ‘Toni’ Draper, CEO of the 131-year-old AFRO American, said in a statement. “Launching a digital news site focused on racial inequities in America, in collaboration with nine other leading Black publishers, has been game-changing for all of us. The transition to a public benefit corporation allows us to take Word In Black out of the pilot phase and develop

it into a much larger national brand that is unapologetically Black.” The public benefit corporation will be supported by the Word In Black Racial Equity Fund, a component fund of the Local

shared Denise Rolark Barnes, publisher of The Washington Informer and a shareholder in Word In Black in a statement. “It shows that we are driven to share our common mission of informing and empowering our readers and expanding upon our common legacies of keeping the Black-owned media viable and alive.” Collectively, the 10 publishers and Word In Black connect with more than 1 million members of the community who, in a time of rampant race-based misinformation, disinformation, and attacks on democracy, need news they can trust more than ever. The formation of the public benefit corporation enables Word In Black to grow both the national brand and the local papers that have tirelessly amplified the voices of

“This is a day to celebrate an important step in the evolution of Word In Black.” Media Foundation, a 501(c)(3) organization affiliated with Local Media Association — which has championed and backed the creation and growth of Word In Black since Day One. “None of us could have imagined this type of collaboration three years ago,”

Black folks for so long. Progress toward racial justice and equity can seem slow or even nonexistent. Many of the promises made in the aftermath of George Floyd’s murder have been shelved over the past four years due to the ongoing cultural and political whitelash against racial justice. But Word In Black remains committed to reporting solutions-focused news that confronts the racial inequities woven into the fabric of this nation. In collaboration with our 10 publishers, we do what our Black press ancestors, Samuel Cornish and John B. Russworm, bravely did all those long years ago: take action, take action, take action. This article was originally published by Word in Black.

Photo courtesy of Word in Black

Word in Black, a collaboration between 10 of the nation’s most trusted and innovative Black publishers, is now officially an incorporated public benefit company as of Jan.1.

From the altar to the avenue, the struggle continues was their God-given right to be free. So we still fight — no matter our religious tradition or background.

By Rev. Dorothy S. Boulware Word in Black A frequent question posed in urban ministry classes when I was a student at Wesley Theological Seminary in Washington, D.C., was whether or not the community would miss the presence of the local church if its doors were to close. That always challenged me as a pastor, now retired, to make sure that after we gathered to worship and celebrate the goodness of God in our lives, we relayed that goodness beyond the walls to our neighbors. And that’s the focus of my new beat, Religion and Social Justice, here at Word in Black. I’m raring to tell the stories of how righteousness prevails in spaces occupied by people empowered by their God, how the fight continues beyond brick-and-mortar houses of worship to unjust systems that weigh heavily on people who cannot and should not bear the burden. When our ancestors began to gather themselves for meetings of all kinds, it was the church that

in courtrooms for equity in the ways laws are applied without the gracious assurance of blind justice. Some fight in the markets

“Houses of worship are up to the battle, armed with the tenets of their faith and the mandate of neighborly love that keeps them going.”

Photo courtesy of Word in Black

Rev. Dorothy S. Boulware is now serving Word in Black as the religion and social justice reporter. While she will retain her role as AFRO special projects editor, Boulware looks forward to reporting on how faith communities fight for justice and equity. welcomed them. The church was the meeting place not only for religious practices but also for planning insurrection and rebellion. The church was the only place that belonged to them, and they could frequent it without anyone’s permission. Across religious groups, according to Pew Research Center data, 75 percent of

Black Christians view antiracism as core to “being a faithful or moral person,” more than Christians from other racial or ethnic groups. One of the worst things slaveholders could have done was to expose their captives to biblical stories of slaves breaking out of bondage, as in the exodus of the Hebrew slaves. They understood it

Some fight for educational justice that allows students the liberty to learn without the stipulations of checks and balances that inhibit that learning. Some fight

where access and prices prevent overworked, underpaid people from feeding their families healthy food. It’s an ongoing fight, and houses of

worship are up to the battle, armed with the tenets of their faith and the mandate of neighborly love that keeps them going. And I am privileged to tell the story. Folks like us are championing equity and justice and serving as catalysts for change. If you have stories about how faith intersects with social justice in your faith community, I’m eager to hear them. Please send your news to me at Dorothy.Boulware@ WordinBlack.com. This article was originally published by Word in Black.

Obituary

Audrey Quarles-Harden

Audrey Quarles-Harden passed on to Glory on January 5, 2024 at the age of 94. She was a retired educator after 30 years of service in the Baltimore Public School System. She is survived by her daughter Denise and a host of family and friends. TUESDAY 1/16/24

4pm - 7pm Public Viewing James A. Morton & Sons Funeral Home 1701 Laurens Street Baltimore, Md. 21217

WEDNESDAY 1/17/24 10:30am - Wake 11am - Funeral Sharon Baptist Church 1375 N. Stricker Street Baltimore, Md 21217

B8 The Afro-American January 13, 2024 - January 19, 2024

For More Information Please call the number above LEGAL NOTICES

LEGAL NOTICES

SUPERIOR COURT OF THE DISTRICT OF COLUMBIA PROBATE DIVISION ADMINISTRATION NO. 2023ADM001420 LILLER SPENCER FLEMING Name of Decedent Notice of Appointment, Notice to Creditors and Notice to Unknown Heirs JAMES EDWIN SPENCER 3, whose address is 2006 38TH ST SE WASHINGTON DC 20020, was appointed Personal Representative of the estate of LILLER SPENCER FLEMING, who died on OCTOBER 31, 2023 without a Will and will serve without Court supervision. All unknown heirs and heirs whose whereabouts are unknown shall enter their appearance In this proceeding. Objections to such, appointment shall be filed With the Register of Wills, D.C., Building A, 515 5th Street, N.W., 3rd Floor, Washington, D.C. 20001, on or before JUNE 29, 2024. Claims against the decedent shall be presented to the undersigned with a copy to the Register of Wills or filed with the Register of Wills with a copy to the undersigned, on or before JUNE 29, 2024 or be forever barred. Persons believed to be heirs or legatees of the decedent who do not receive a copy of this notice by mail within 25 days of its publication shall so inform the Register of Wills, including name, address and relationship. Date of first publication: DECEMBER 29, 2023 Name of newspaper and/or periodical: Washington Law Reporter AFRO American Newspapers

SUPERIOR COURT OF THE DISTRICT OF COLUMBIA PROBATE DIVISION ADMINISTRATION NO. 2023ADM001442 AVON DECARLOS SHELL SR. Name of Decedent WASHINGTON DC 20006 Notice of Appointment, Notice to Creditors and Notice to Unknown Heirs BARBARA ANN SIMMONS SHELL, whose address is 625 HAMLIN ST NE #3 WDC 20017, was appointed Personal Representative of the estate of AVON DECARLOS SHELL SR., who died on DECEMBER 7, 2022 without a Will and will serve without Court supervision. All unknown heirs and heirs whose whereabouts are unknown shall enter their appearance In this proceeding. Objections to such, appointment shall be filed With the Register of Wills, D.C., Building A, 515 5th Street, N.W., 3rd Floor, Washington, D.C. 20001, on or before JULY 5, 2024. Claims against the decedent shall be presented to the undersigned with a copy to the Register of Wills or filed with the Register of Wills with a copy to the undersigned, on or before JULY 5, 2024 or be forever barred. Persons believed to be heirs or legatees of the decedent who do not receive a copy of this notice by mail within 25 days of its publication shall so inform the Register of Wills, including name, address and relationship. Date of first publication: JANUARY 5, 2024 Name of newspaper and/or periodical: Washington Law Reporter AFRO American Newspapers

SUPERIOR COURT OF THE DISTRICT OF COLUMBIA PROBATE DIVISION ADMINISTRATION NO. 2023ADM001467 LEONARD L. LONG JR. Name of Decedent ELIZABETH V. NOEL ESQ. 10770 COLUMBIA PIKE- SUITE 250 SILVER SPRING MD 20901 Notice of Appointment, Notice to Creditors and Notice to Unknown Heirs LETICIA LONG, whose address is 2327 BRANCH AVE SE, WASHINGTON DC 20020, was appointed Personal Representative of the estate of LEONARD L. LONG, JR., who died on SEPTEMBER 29, 2023 without a Will and will serve without Court supervision. All unknown heirs and heirs whose whereabouts are unknown shall enter their appearance In this proceeding. Objections to such, appointment shall be filed With the Register of Wills, D.C., Building A, 515 5th Street, N.W., 3rd Floor, Washington, D.C. 20001, on or before JULY 5, 2024. Claims against the decedent shall be presented to the undersigned with a copy to the Register of Wills or filed with the Register of Wills with a copy to the undersigned, on or before JULY 5, 2024 or be forever barred. Persons believed to be heirs or legatees of the decedent who do not receive a copy of this notice by mail within 25 days of its publication shall so inform the Register of Wills, including name, address and relationship. Date of first publication: JANUARY 5, 2024 Name of newspaper and/or periodical: Washington Law Reporter AFRO American Newspapers

JAMES EDWIN SPENCER 3 Personal Representative TRUE TEST COPY REGISTER OF WILLS 12/29, 1/5, 1/12/24

SUPERIOR COURT OF THE DISTRICT OF COLUMBIA PROBATE DIVISION ADMINISTRATION NO. 2023ADM001427 RYAN ALLEN MORGAN Name of Decedent Notice of Appointment, Notice to Creditors and Notice to Unknown Heirs RALPH ALLEN MORGAN, whose address is 3948 FIRST STREET S.W. WASHINGTON, DC 20032, was appointed Personal Representative of the estate of RYAN ALLEN MORGAN, who died on SEPTEMBER 10, 2023 without a Will and will serve without Court supervision. All unknown heirs and heirs whose whereabouts are unknown shall enter their appearance In this proceeding. Objections to such, appointment shall be filed With the Register of Wills, D.C., Building A, 515 5th Street, N.W., 3rd Floor, Washington, D.C. 20001, on or before JUNE 29, 2024. Claims against the decedent shall be presented to the undersigned with a copy to the Register of Wills or filed with the Register of Wills with a copy to the undersigned, on or before JUNE 29, 2024 or be forever barred. Persons believed to be heirs or legatees of the decedent who do not receive a copy of this notice by mail within 25 days of its publication shall so inform the Register of Wills, including name, address and relationship. Date of first publication: DECEMBER 29, 2023 Name of newspaper and/or periodical: Washington Law Reporter AFRO American Newspapers RALPH ALLEN MORGAN Personal Representative TRUE TEST COPY REGISTER OF WILLS 12/29, 1/5, 1/12/24

SUPERIOR COURT OF THE DISTRICT OF COLUMBIA PROBATE DIVISION ADMINISTRATION NO. 2023ADM1425 ABRAHAM BETHEA Name of Decedent KEITH A. ANDERSON 4700 BLAINE STREET, N.E. WASHNGTON, D.C. 20019 Notice of Appointment, Notice to Creditors and Notice to Unknown Heirs CHERYL B. GARDNER, whose address is 22309 GOSHEN SCHOOL RD., GAITHERSBURG, MD. 20882, was appointed Personal Representative of the estate of ABRAHAM BETHEA, who died on MARCH 17, 2014 without a Will and will serve without Court supervision. All unknown heirs and heirs whose whereabouts are unknown shall enter their appearance In this proceeding. Objections to such, appointment shall be filed With the Register of Wills, D.C., Building A, 515 5th Street, N.W., 3rd Floor, Washington, D.C. 20001, on or before JULY 5, 2024. Claims against the decedent shall be presented to the undersigned with a copy to the Register of Wills or filed with the Register of Wills with a copy to the undersigned, on or before JULY 5, 2024 or be forever barred. Persons believed to be heirs or legatees of the decedent who do not receive a copy of this notice by mail within 25 days of its publication shall so inform the Register of Wills, including name, address and relationship. Date of first publication: JANUARY 5, 2024 Name of newspaper and/or periodical: Washington Law Reporter AFRO American Newspapers CHERYL B. GARDNER Personal Representative TRUE TEST COPY REGISTER OF WILLS 1/05, 1/12, 1/19/24

BARBARA ANN SIMMONS SHELL Personal Representative TRUE TEST COPY REGISTER OF WILLS 1/05, 1/12, 1/19/24

SUPERIOR COURT OF THE DISTRICT OF COLUMBIA PROBATE DIVISION ADMINISTRATION NO. 2023ADM001412 ALPHIE R. WILLIAMS Name of Decedent DENIS C. MITCHELL STEIN MITCHELL BEATO & MISSNER LLP 2000 K STREET, N.W SUITE 600 WASHINGTON DC 20006 Notice of Appointment, Notice to Creditors and Notice to Unknown Heirs JOHNICA WILLIAMS, whose address is 3407 WHEELER ROAD, S.E. WASHINGTON D.C. 20032, was appointed Personal Representative of the estate of ALPHIE R. WILLIAMS, who died on AUGUST 29, 2021 without a Will and will serve without Court supervision. All unknown heirs and heirs whose whereabouts are unknown shall enter their appearance In this proceeding. Objections to such, appointment shall be filed With the Register of Wills, D.C., Building A, 515 5th Street, N.W., 3rd Floor, Washington, D.C. 20001, on or before JULY 5, 2024. Claims against the decedent shall be presented to the undersigned with a copy to the Register of Wills or filed with the Register of Wills with a copy to the undersigned, on or before JULY 5, 2024 or be forever barred. Persons believed to be heirs or legatees of the decedent who do not receive a copy of this notice by mail within 25 days of its publication shall so inform the Register of Wills, including name, address and relationship. Date of first publication: JANUARY 5, 2024 Name of newspaper and/or periodical: Washington Law Reporter AFRO American Newspapers JOHNICA WILLIAMS Personal Representative TRUE TEST COPY REGISTER OF WILLS 1/05, 1/12, 1/19/24

SUPERIOR COURT OF THE DISTRICT OF COLUMBIA PROBATE DIVISION ADMINISTRATION NO. 2023ADM1410 CHRISTINE CODY Name of Decedent KATELYN E. HOLBROOK ESQ. 4800 MONTGOMERY LN. STE 600 BETHESDA MD 20814 Notice of Appointment, Notice to Creditors and Notice to Unknown Heirs JEFFREY D. KATZ, whose address is 4800 MONTGOMERY LN STE 600 BETHESDA MD 20814, was appointed Personal Representative of the estate of CHRISTINE CODY, who died on OCTOBER 23, 2022 with a Will and will serve without Court supervision. All unknown heirs and heirs whose whereabouts are unknown shall enter their appearance In this proceeding. Objections to such, appointment shall be filed With the Register of Wills, D.C., Building A, 515 5th Street, N.W., 3rd Floor, Washington, D.C. 20001, on or before JULY 5, 2024. Claims against the decedent shall be presented to the undersigned with a copy to the Register of Wills or filed with the Register of Wills with a copy to the undersigned, on or before JULY 5, 2024 or be forever barred. Persons believed to be heirs or legatees of the decedent who do not receive a copy of this notice by mail within 25 days of its publication shall so inform the Register of Wills, including name, address and relationship. Date of first publication: JANUARY 5, 2024 Name of newspaper and/or periodical: Washington Law Reporter AFRO American Newspapers JEFFREY D.KATZ Personal Representative TRUE TEST COPY REGISTER OF WILLS 1/05, 1/12, 1/19/24

LETICIA LONG Personal Representative TRUE TEST COPY REGISTER OF WILLS 1/05, 1/12, 1/19/24

SUPERIOR COURT OF THE DISTRICT OF COLUMBIA PROBATE DIVISION ADMINISTRATION NO. 2023ADM001440 BAHAI PAUL-BAHA Name of Decedent TIMOTHY J. SESSING 12850 MIDDLEBROOK ROAD, SUITE 308 GERMANTOWN, MARYLAND 20874 Notice of Appointment, Notice to Creditors and Notice to Unknown Heirs OMAR CATOE, whose address is 6010 BIRKDALE VALLEY DRIVE APT 228, CHARLOTTE, NORTH CAROLINA 28277, was appointed Personal Representative of the estate of BAHAI PAUL-BAHA, who died on SEPTEMBER 26, 2023 with a Will and will serve without Court supervision. All unknown heirs and heirs whose whereabouts are unknown shall enter their appearance In this proceeding. Objections to such, appointment shall be filed With the Register of Wills, D.C., Building A, 515 5th Street, N.W., 3rd Floor, Washington, D.C. 20001, on or before JULY 5, 2024. Claims against the decedent shall be presented to the undersigned with a copy to the Register of Wills or filed with the Register of Wills with a copy to the undersigned, on or before JULY 5, 2024 or be forever barred. Persons believed to be heirs or legatees of the decedent who do not receive a copy of this notice by mail within 25 days of its publication shall so inform the Register of Wills, including name, address and relationship. Date of first publication: JANUARY 5, 2024 Name of newspaper and/or periodical: Washington Law Reporter AFRO American Newspapers OMAR CATOE Personal Representative TRUE TEST COPY REGISTER OF WILLS 1/05, 1/12, 1/19/24

SUPERIOR COURT OF THE DISTRICT OF COLUMBIA PROBATE DIVISION ADMINISTRATION NO. 2023ADM001426 ROSEMARY SONJA LOWERY Name of Decedent WASHINGTON DC 20006 Notice of Appointment, Notice to Creditors and Notice to Unknown Heirs KAYLA RODRIGUEZ SKEETE, whose address is 6841 MILLTOWN COURT, DISTRICT HEIGHTS, MD 20747, was appointed Personal Representative of the estate of ROSEMARY SONJA LOWERY, who died on MAY 11, 2023 with a Will and will serve without Court supervision. All unknown heirs and heirs whose whereabouts are unknown shall enter their appearance In this proceeding. Objections to such, appointment shall be filed With the Register of Wills, D.C., Building A, 515 5th Street, N.W., 3rd Floor, Washington, D.C. 20001, on or before JULY 5, 2024. Claims against the decedent shall be presented to the undersigned with a copy to the Register of Wills or filed with the Register of Wills with a copy to the undersigned, on or before JULY 5, 2024 or be forever barred. Persons believed to be heirs or legatees of the decedent who do not receive a copy of this notice by mail within 25 days of its publication shall so inform the Register of Wills, including name, address and relationship. Date of first publication: JANUARY 5, 2024 Name of newspaper and/or periodical: Washington Law Reporter AFRO American Newspapers KAYLA RODRIGUEZ SKEETE Personal Representative TRUE TEST COPY REGISTER OF WILLS 1/05, 1/12, 1/19/24

SUPERIOR COURT OF THE DISTRICT OF COLUMBIA PROBATE DIVISION ADMINISTRATION NO. 2023ADM001399 SARA HAGOS Name of Decedent WASHINGTON DC 20006 Notice of Appointment, Notice to Creditors and Notice to Unknown Heirs ABIGAIL HAGOS, whose address is 4211 ARKANSAS AVE NW, WASHINGTON, DC 20011, was appointed Personal Representative of the estate of SARA HAGOS, who died on OCTOBER 21, 2023 without a Will and will serve without Court supervision. All unknown heirs and heirs whose whereabouts are unknown shall enter their appearance In this proceeding. Objections to such, appointment shall be filed With the Register of Wills, D.C., Building A, 515 5th Street, N.W., 3rd Floor, Washington, D.C. 20001, on or before JULY 5, 2024. Claims against the decedent shall be presented to the undersigned with a copy to the Register of Wills or filed with the Register of Wills with a copy to the undersigned, on or before JULY 5, 2024 or be forever barred. Persons believed to be heirs or legatees of the decedent who do not receive a copy of this notice by mail within 25 days of its publication shall so inform the Register of Wills, including name, address and relationship. Date of first publication: JANUARY 5, 2024 Name of newspaper and/or periodical: Washington Law Reporter AFRO American Newspapers ABIGAIL HAGOS Personal Representative TRUE TEST COPY REGISTER OF WILLS 1/05, 1/12, 1/19/24

SUPERIOR COURT OF THE DISTRICT OF COLUMBIA PROBATE DIVISION ADMINISTRATION NO. 2023ADM001096 WEBSTER ALPHONSO COBB Name of Decedent H. ALEXANDRA P.C. COBB ESQ. FRIEDMAN, FRAMME, & THRUSH 10461 MILL RUN CIRCLE, STE #550 OWINGS MILLS MARYLAND 21117 Notice of Appointment, Notice to Creditors and Notice to Unknown Heirs JAMES BERNARD COBB JR., whose address is 11403 MARY CATHERINE DRIVE, CLINTON MD 20735, was appointed Personal Representative of the estate of WEBSTER ALPHONSO COBB, who died on MARCH 24, 2020 without a Will and will serve without Court supervision. All unknown heirs and heirs whose whereabouts are unknown shall enter their appearance In this proceeding. Objections to such, appointment shall be filed With the Register of Wills, D.C., Building A, 515 5th Street, N.W., 3rd Floor, Washington, D.C. 20001, on or before JULY 5, 2024. Claims against the decedent shall be presented to the undersigned with a copy to the Register of Wills or filed with the Register of Wills with a copy to the undersigned, on or before JULY 5, 2024 or be forever barred. Persons believed to be heirs or legatees of the decedent who do not receive a copy of this notice by mail within 25 days of its publication shall so inform the Register of Wills, including name, address and relationship. Date of first publication: JANUARY 5, 2024 Name of newspaper and/or periodical: Washington Law Reporter AFRO American Newspapers

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Payment Policy for legal notice advertisements.

Effective immediately, The Afro AmericanNewspapers will require prepayment for publication of all legal notices. Payment will be accepted in the form of checks, credit card or money order. Any returned checks will be subject to a $25.00 processing fee and may result in the suspension of any future advertising at our discretion.

JAMES BERNARD COBB JR. Personal Representative TRUE TEST COPY REGISTER OF WILLS 1/05, 1/12, 1/19/24

SUPERIOR COURT OF THE DISTRICT OF COLUMBIA PROBATE DIVISION ADMINISTRATION NO. 2023ADM001483 EKONG ESSIEN AKA EKONG OKON ESSIEN Name of Decedent Notice of Appointment, Notice to Creditors and Notice to Unknown Heirs NOEL OKON, whose address is 3 GLEN BURNIE DRIVE SICKLERVILLE NJ 08081 was appointed Personal Representative of the estate of EKONG ESSIEN AKA EKONG OKON ESSIEN who died on NOVEMBER 17, 2023 without a Will and will serve without Court supervision. All unknown heirs and heirs whose whereabouts are unknown shall enter their appearance In this proceeding. Objections to such, appointment shall be filed With the Register of Wills, D.C., Building A, 515 5th Street, N.W., 3rd Floor, Washington, D.C. 20001, on or before JULY 12, 2024. Claims against the decedent shall be presented to the undersigned with a copy to the Register of Wills or filed with the Register of Wills with a copy to the undersigned, on or before JULY 12, 2024 or be forever barred. Persons believed to be heirs or legatees of the decedent who do not receive a copy of this notice by mail within 25 days of its publication shall so inform the Register of Wills, including name, address and relationship. Date of first publication: JANUARY 12, 2024 Name of newspaper and/or periodical: Washington Law Reporter AFRO American Newspapers NOEL OKON Personal Representative TRUE TEST COPY REGISTER OF WILLS 1/12, 1/19, 1/26/24

Washington Classified Continued on B9

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January 13, 2024 - January 19, 2024 The Afro-American B9

Payment Policy for legal notice advertisements.

Effective immediately, The Afro American Newspapers will require prepayment for publication of all legal notices Payment will be accepted in the form of checks, credit card or money order. Any returned checks will be subject to a $25.00 processing fee and may result in the suspension of any future advertising at our discretion. LEGAL NOTICES

LEGAL NOTICES

BOARD OF LIQUOR LICENSE COMMISSIONERS FOR BALTIMORE CITY

ANNE ARUNDEL COUNTY, MARYLAND

NOTICE – JANUARY 2024 Petitions have been filed by the following applicants for licenses to sell alcoholic beverages at the premises set opposite their respective names. The real property for these applications will be posted on or about January 15, 2024. Written protests concerning any application will be accepted until and including the time of the hearing. Public hearings may be scheduled on or after January 25, 2024 at 10:30 AM in City Hall; 100 N. Holliday Street, Room 215, Baltimore, Maryland 21202. Please visit llb.baltimorecity.gov under the link for &quot;Hearing Schedules&quot; for confirmation of the date, time, and place for all matters being heard by the Board. 1. CLASS “A” BEER, WINE &amp; LIQUOR LICENSE Applicant: MBG Liquors, LLC T/a Perry’s Liquors - Manroop Sandhu Petition: Transfer of ownership Premises: 2550 Edmondson Avenue 21223 Applicant: Mesi, Inc. T/a Fox Liquor - Brian Ward Knight and Daniel Tadesse Petition: Transfer of ownership Premises: 1301-03 N. Fulton Avenue 21217 2. CLASS “B” BEER, WINE &amp; LIQUOR LICENSE Applicant: 2105 Eastern Avenue Realty, LLC T/a Trade Name Pending Kristian Spannhake and Jesse Vann Petition: New restaurant license requesting outdoor table service Premises: 2105 Eastern Avenue 21231 Applicant: HTMD, LLC T/a Broadway Diner - Loukas Renieris and Pete Koroneos Petition: Transfer of ownership Premises: 6501 Eastern Avenue 21224 Applicant: Palance Roti Shop &amp; Bar, LLC T/a Trade Name Pending - Sean Andre Stephen, Gregory Miles Smith, and LaRon Robertson Petition: Amended – Transfer of ownership Premises: 2031 E. Fairmount Avenue 21231 Applicant: Semam, LLC T/a Dukem Restaurant - Joseph Zewdie and Abiot Gebremariam Petition: Transfer of ownership Premises: 1100 Maryland Avenue 21201 Applicant: Slutty Vegan, Inc. T/a Slutty Vegan - Jason Crain, Angel Gale Barnwell, and Michelle Andrea Cole Petition: New restaurant license requesting live entertainment, outdoor table service, off-premises catering, and delivery of alcoholic beverages Premises: 301 Mission Boulevard 21230 3. CLASS “BD7” BEER, WINE &amp; LIQUOR LICENSE Applicant: El Pueblito Restaurant &amp; Bar, LLC T/a El Pueblito Restaurant &amp; Bar - Carlos Amilcar Ramirez Rivera and Janet Beth Bonilla Diaz Petition: Transfer of ownership requesting live entertainment and delivery of alcoholic beverages Premises: 3311 Annapolis Road 21230 Applicant: R &amp; G Traders, Inc. T/a Joe’s Tavern - Rajwant Singh Petition: Transfer of ownership Premises: 1006-08 Dundalk Avenue 21224 Applicant: NMP North, LLC T/a Robbie’s Nest - Mamata Ranjitkar and Broderick Leon Graham Petition: Amended – Transfer of ownership requesting delivery of alcoholic beverages Premises: 2250 E. North Avenue 21213 Applicant: W.T.J., Inc. T/a Walt’s Inn - Ronald G Legler, Jr. and Andrew M. Springer Petition: Transfer of ownership with continuation of live entertainment Premises: 3201 O’Donnell Street 21224 Applicant: Flock Restaurant Group, LLC T/a 1415 Washington Boulevard - Alexander Aaron and Benjamin Aaron Petition: Amended – Transfer of ownership requesting off-premises catering and delivery of alcoholic beverages Premises: 1415 Washington Boulevard 21230

HOUSING AUTHORITY OF BALTIMORE CITY REQUEST FOR PROPOSALS HABC STAFFING STRUCTURE ASSESSMENT RFP NUMBER: B-2000-24 The Housing Authority of Baltimore City (“HABC”) is seeking proposals from interested and qualified firms to assess the staffing structure of HABC’s Central Office and Developments to determine the right sizing needed to meet the organizations established business objectives Specifically, the assessment shall be focused on best practices to achieve maximum productivity. PROPOSALS WILL BE DUE no later than 2:00 p.m. Eastern Time on Friday, February 16, 2024 A non-mandatory pre-proposal conference will be held on Wednesday, January 31, 2024 at 10:00 a.m., which will be scheduled as a virtual meeting. The RFP may be obtained on or after Monday, January 22, 2024, at the following location: Housing Authority of Baltimore City Division of Fiscal Operations, Procurement Department 417 E. Fayette Street, Room 414 Baltimore, Maryland 21202 Attention: Patrick Sullivan, Senior Buyer Tel: 443-984-1963 patrick.sullivan@habc.org

For More Information Please call the number above

BALTIMORE CAREER CORNER

Annapolis, Maryland ANNOUNCEMENT REQUEST FOR BIDS On or after December 26, 2023, Plans and Specifications may be obtained from the Anne Arundel County Web Page at the following address: https:// www.aacounty.org/departments/central-services/purchasing/P.O.R.T./ bids/index.html . Bids will be received until time/date shown below, please submit your bid electronically via the PORT. Bids received after the date and time set will be rejected. Due by 1:30 p.m. Local Time, Tuesday, February 6, 2024 Project: P582001 – Deale Community Park Sonication No.: CAP24000190 Contact: Emma Pfefferkorn – 443-805-1737

ANNE ARUNDEL COUNTY, MARYLAND Annapolis, Maryland ANNOUNCEMENT REQUEST FOR BIDS On or after December 18, 2023, Plans and Specifications may be obtained from the Anne Arundel County Web Page at the following address: https://www.aacounty.org/departments/central-services/purchasing/P.O.R.T./bids/index.html . Bids will be received until time/date shown below, please submit your bid electronically via the PORT. Bids received after the date and time set will be rejected. Due by 1:30 p.m. Local Time, Tuesday, January 30, 2024 Project: P584501 – Jug Bay Environmental Education Center Sonication No.: CAP24000180 Contact: Emma Pfefferkorn – 443-805-1737

ANNE ARUNDEL COUNTY CAREER OPPORTUNITIES Addiction Specialist Automated Meter Infrastructure Program Manager Building & Construction Engineer II Combination Code Inspector (Building, Electrical, Plumbing & Mechanical) COTS Support Lead (Systems Analyst) Deputy Sheriff II (Lateral Entry) Detention Officer Emergency Management Training/Exercise Coordinator Emergency Services Manager Environment Sanitarian I/II Environmental Technician Equipment Operator I Equipment Operator II Financial Management Aide Forestry Program Specialist Information & Assistance Specialist Landfill Manager Maintenance Worker II Management Aide Management Assistant II Permit Specialist (Planning Technician II) Planner II Planning Technician II Police Officer Comparative Compliance Police Officer Lateral Recreation Supervisor Senior Budget & Management Analyst Senior Equipment Operator Senior Full Stack Developer (Systems Programmer II) Utilities Maintenance Crew Leader Utilities Repair Crew Leader Utilities Support Worker I Utilities Support Worker II Utility Construction Inspector Utility Systems Technician II Water/Wastewater System Technician I Visit our website at www.aacounty.org for additional information and to apply on-line. You may access the Internet at any Anne Arundel County library, or visit our office at 2660 Riva Road in Annapolis, MD. Deadlines to apply posted on the website.

Washington Classified Continued from B8

LEGAL NOTICES

SUPERIOR COURT OF THE DISTRICT OF COLUMBIA PROBATE DIVISION ADMINISTRATION NO. 2023ADM1448 JEANETTE C. SIMMS Name of Decedent THOMAS H. QUEEN ESQ, 7961 EASTERN AVENUE SUITE 304 SILVER SPRING, MD 20910 Notice of Appointment, Notice to Creditors and Notice to Unknown Heirs THERESA M. GARZA, whose address is 1517 K STREET, SE, WASHINGTON, DC 20003 was appointed Personal Representative of the estate of JEANETTE C. SIMMS who died on AUGUST 9, 2023 with a Will and will serve without Court supervision. All unknown heirs and heirs whose whereabouts are unknown shall enter their appearance In this proceeding. Objections to such, appointment shall be filed With the Register of Wills, D.C., Building A, 515 5th Street, N.W., 3rd Floor, Washington, D.C. 20001, on or before JULY 12, 2024. Claims against the decedent shall be presented to the undersigned with a copy to the Register of Wills or filed with the Register of Wills with a copy to the undersigned, on or before JULY 12, 2024 or be forever barred. Persons believed to be heirs or legatees of the decedent who do not receive a copy of this notice by mail within 25 days of its publication shall so inform the Register of Wills, including name, address and relationship. Date of first publication: JANUARY 12, 2024 Name of newspaper and/or periodical: Washington Law Reporter AFRO American Newspapers

SUPERIOR COURT OF THE DISTRICT OF COLUMBIA PROBATE DIVISION ADMINISTRATION NO. 2023ADM1487 MARCELLA GREEN Name of Decedent Notice of Appointment, Notice to Creditors and Notice to Unknown Heirs JAMAAL GREEN, whose address is 1911 ROSEMARY HILL DRIVE, UNIT R1, SILVER SPRING MD 20910 was appointed Personal Representative of the estate of MARCELLA GREEN who died on AUGUST 10, 2022 without a Will and will serve without Court supervision. All unknown heirs and heirs whose whereabouts are unknown shall enter their appearance In this proceeding. Objections to such, appointment shall be filed With the Register of Wills, D.C., Building A, 515 5th Street, N.W., 3rd Floor, Washington, D.C. 20001, on or before JULY 12, 2024. Claims against the decedent shall be presented to the undersigned with a copy to the Register of Wills or filed with the Register of Wills with a copy to the undersigned, on or before JULY 12, 2024 or be forever barred. Persons believed to be heirs or legatees of the decedent who do not receive a copy of this notice by mail within 25 days of its publication shall so inform the Register of Wills, including name, address and relationship. Date of first publication: JANUARY 12, 2024 Name of newspaper and/or periodical: Washington Law Reporter AFRO American Newspapers

SUPERIOR COURT OF THE DISTRICT OF COLUMBIA PROBATE DIVISION ADMINISTRATION NO. 2023ADM001493 WILBERT SPENCER KNIGHT Name of Decedent Notice of Appointment, Notice to Creditors and Notice to Unknown Heirs CHALMERS H. KNIGHT, whose address is 3292 ALPINE DRIVE ANN ARBOR, MICHIGAN 48108 was appointed Personal Representative of the estate of WILBERT SPENCER KNIGHT who died on NOVEMBER 17, 2023 without a Will and will serve without Court supervision. All unknown heirs and heirs whose whereabouts are unknown shall enter their appearance In this proceeding. Objections to such, appointment shall be filed With the Register of Wills, D.C., Building A, 515 5th Street, N.W., 3rd Floor, Washington, D.C. 20001, on or before JULY 12, 2024. Claims against the decedent shall be presented to the undersigned with a copy to the Register of Wills or filed with the Register of Wills with a copy to the undersigned, on or before JULY 12, 2024 or be forever barred. Persons believed to be heirs or legatees of the decedent who do not receive a copy of this notice by mail within 25 days of its publication shall so inform the Register of Wills, including name, address and relationship. Date of first publication: JANUARY 12, 2024 Name of newspaper and/or periodical: Washington Law Reporter AFRO American Newspapers

JAMAAL GREEN Personal Representative

CHALMERS H. KNIGHT Personal Representative

THERESA M. GARZA Personal Representative TRUE TEST COPY REGISTER OF WILLS 1/12, 1/19, 1/26/24

TRUE TEST COPY REGISTER OF WILLS 1/12, 1/19, 1/26/24

Questions regarding the RFP should be directed in writing to the address and individual indicated above and must include the reference: HABC RFP Number B-2000-24.

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B10 The Afro-American January 13, 2024 - January 19, 2024