drew elected officials and other leaders
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Smithsonian honors women of the 6888th Central Postal Directory Battalion with screening of upcoming film
By Deborah Bailey
AFRO Contributing Editor
The women of the 6888th Central Postal Directory Battalion probably never imagined seeing their life stories on the screen. After all, they were just hard-working women from all walks of life.
They were the women willing to trade their best Sunday dresses for uniforms and put their lives on the line for their country. Each lady was more than up for the task: more than 17 million pieces of mail needed to be cleared, to restore lines of communication and boost morale.
The women had six months to do their job– they did it in three. In fact, they were so good, when the war ended they were asked to replicate their success in Rouen, France. And again, they did six months of work in roughly 90 days, working in shifts around the clock.
Now, internationally known director Tyler Perry and other celebrities are determined to tell their story.
The National Museum of African American History and Culture (NMAAHC) hosted the international premier of “The Six Triple Eight” on Nov. 20, exactly one month before the film’s release to the general public.
“It’s my great honor to tell the story and celebrate these women,”
Perry said.
He spoke about exploring the legacy of Lt. Charity Adams Earley, the 6888th Battalion leader, who ended WWII as the highest ranking Black woman in the U.S. Army. Perry told those present about a moment he experienced while sitting in his dressing room.
“I get a knock on the door, and it’s
one of the transportation guys...he said ‘I want to show you something.’ We opened the door, and there’s a trunk from 1944 from the war. And we look at the side of it and it says, ‘Charity Adams.’ We opened it up and her uniform, some things from our garden–two or three branches– all these things are in the letters, things that she had written out.”
“I feel like all of these women–their souls, their spirits– were rallying around us to tell the story,” said Perry to the audience members present.
Perry noted how many of the women returned home and packed away their former selves.
“They all came home and settled back into their lives because it was taboo for a woman to be in the Army. This is before the army was segre-
gated in 1948,” he said. Now, years later, the story of the brave women of the 6888th is being put on the world stage.
He was joined by cast members Kerry Washington and Ebony Obsidian, who participated in a panel after the screening to talk about their experiences in portraying the real life women of the 6888th Battalion.
While some may have been unfamiliar with the story, one guest, U.S. Army Colonel Travis Hill, said his line of work afforded him the opportunity to learn about women in the past.
“I am in human resources,” he told the AFRO at the screening. “There are a lot of postal organizations in the Army, so we definitely know and honor this unit that served in World War II.”
Members of Congress, family members of the women in the 6888th Battalion and military personnel, such as Elizabeth Helms Frazier, a retired master sergeant in the U.S. Army (E8) were among the special guests for the screening.
Frazier said that even though the women are seen as heroes today, in the 1940s, there was less fanfare.
“These women were like many veterans of World War II, and veterans in general. They just did what they were told to do and came home. That part of their lives was done,” said Frazier.
Frazier said she first learned about the 6888 Battalion as an enlisted soldier, seeing a small picture of the regiment from time to time during her Continued on A3
In the classroom: How Maryland educators are teaching Thanksgiving lessons to the next generation
By DaQuan Lawrence AFRO International Writer DLawrence@afro.com
On Nov. 28 the Thanksgiving holiday will arrive, complete with family gatherings, community events and opportunities to give back and be grateful. While conversations about the origin of Thanksgiving and the purpose of the holiday remain suspended between myth and fact-based reality, educators in the state of Maryland grapple each year with how the holiday is addressed in the educational setting.
According to Brittanica, “Thanksgiving is modeled on a 1621 harvest feast shared by the English colonists (Pilgrims) of Plymouth and the Wampanoag people.”
While millions of American citizens use the holiday as the opener to a season of gratitude, for others the holiday is overshadowed by the death and destruction experienced by Native Americans
at the hands of Europeans as colonization spread.
According to Dr. Kelli Mosteller, who serves as Citizen Potawatomi Nation’s Cultural Heritage Center director, the holiday “disregards [centuries of brutality] against Native Americans and chooses to take…one tiny snapshot. The world of social media puts pretty filters on it so that it doesn’t look the way it truly did.”
In real life, the situation was anything but a celebration. According to Holocaust Museum Houston, “when European settlers arrived in the Americas, historians estimate there were over 10 million Native Americans living there. By 1900, their estimated population was under 300,000. Native Americans were subjected to many different forms of violence, all with the intention of destroying the community.”
Information released by the museum states that “in the late 1800s, blankets from
Thanksgiving is a holiday with roots dating back to 1621. And while many see the day as a time to be grateful, others see it as a painful reminder of what happened to the Native Americans who were driven from their land and massacred by the millions. smallpox patients were distributed to Native Americans in order to spread disease. There were several wars, and violence was encouraged; for example, European settlers were paid for each Penobscot person they killed.”
Then came more atrocities. According to the museum, “In the 19th century,
4,000 Cherokee people died on the Trail of Tears, a forced march from the southern U.S. to Oklahoma.”
The Citizen Potawatomi Nation is the federally recognized government of the Indigenous population and represents over 38,000 tribal members.
Some members of society believe the factual history behind the holiday provides ample reasons for citizens to not celebrate what is billed to the American public as a time to be thankful. To many Native Americans, the holiday ignores over 400 years of mayhem against Indigenous people and maintains the
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Unsplash/ Sam Bayle
AFRO Photos/Dr. Deborah Bailey
Tyler Perry’s Netflix film, “The Six Triple Eight” will be available to the general public on Dec. 20 via Netflix. On Nov. 20 the National Museum of African American History and
Culture hosted a screening that
such as a retired U.S. Army Master Sergeant Elizabeth Helms Frazier (left), U.S. Army historian Kevin Hymel and AFRO Publisher and CEO Dr. Frances “Toni” Draper.
packed audience gathered to watch the movie and hear remarks from Perry (far right) and other members of the cast.
Daughters of Malcolm X sue CIA, FBI and NYPD over the civil rights leader’s assassination
By Larry Neumeister
The Associated Press
NEW
YORK (AP)
—
Three daughters of Malcolm X have accused the CIA, FBI, the New York Police Department and others in a $100 million lawsuit Nov. 15 of playing roles in the 1965 assassination of the civil rights leader.
In the lawsuit filed in Manhattan federal court, the daughters — along with the Malcolm X estate — claimed that the agencies were aware of and were involved in the assassination plot and failed to stop the killing.
At a morning news conference, attorney Ben Crump stood with family members as he described the lawsuit, saying he hoped federal and city officials would read it “and learn all the dastardly deeds that were done by their predecessors and try to right these historic wrongs.”
The NYPD and CIA did not immediately respond to requests for comment.
Nicholas Biase, a spokesperson for the Department of Justice, which was also sued, declined comment. The FBI said in an email that it was its “standard practice” not to comment on litigation.
For decades, more questions than answers have arisen over who was to blame for the death of Malcolm X, who was 39 years old when he was slain on Feb. 21, 1965, at the Audubon Ballroom on West 165th Street in Manhattan as he spoke to several hundred people.
Born Malcolm Little in Omaha, Nebraska, Malcolm X later changed his name to El-Hajj Malik El-Shabazz.
Three men were convicted of crimes in the death but two of them were exonerated in 2021 after investigators took a fresh look at the case and concluded some evidence was shaky and authorities had held back some information.
In the lawsuit, the family said the prosecution team suppressed the government’s role in the assassination. The lawsuit alleges that there was a “corrupt, unlawful, and unconstitutional” relationship between law enforcement and “ruthless killers that went unchecked for many years and was actively concealed, condoned, protected, and facilitated by government agents,” leading up to the murder of Malcolm X.
According to the lawsuit, the NYPD, coordinating with federal law enforcement agencies, arrested the activist’s security detail days before the assassination and intentionally removed their officers from inside the ballroom where Malcolm X was killed. Meanwhile, it adds, federal agencies had personnel, including undercover agents, in the ballroom but failed to protect him.
The lawsuit was not brought sooner because the defendants withheld information from the family, including the identities of undercover “informants, agents and provocateurs” and what they knew about the planning that preceded the attack.
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Malcolm X’s wife, Betty Shabazz, the plaintiffs, “and their entire family have suffered the pain of the unknown” for decades, the lawsuit states.
“They did not know who murdered Malcolm X, why he was murdered, the level of NYPD, FBI and CIA orchestration, the identity of the governmental agents who conspired to ensure his demise, or who fraudulently covered-up their role,” it states. “The damage caused to the Shabazz family is unimaginable, immense, and irreparable.”
The family announced its intention to sue the law enforcement agencies early last year.
Mother of child found hanging in school bathrooms says bullying–not race– led to attack
By Aria Brent AFRO Staff Writer abrent@afro.com
The mother of the Maryland elementary school student found hanging in a Charles County school bathroom now says the attack was not racially motivated, but instead the result of bullying.
On Nov.15, a second grader at C. Paul Barnhart Elementary School in Waldorf, Md., was injured in a disturbing incident in the school’s bathroom.
“I received the most traumatizing phone call from the school stating that my child was being rushed to children’s hospital in NW. The principal went into the bathroom and found my baby foaming out [of] the mouth and unconscious,” said the mother, in an IG post that now has more than 400,000 shares. “I walked into the trauma room with 8-10 doctors surrounding my son. This is the most heartbreaking and traumatizing situation my family has ever been in….Everything about this is unacceptable, nothing about this is ok BULLYING is never ok.”
According to school officials, the younger student’s jacket got caught on a stall door hook during the interaction, leaving him unable to free himself. The other student sought help, and staff called 911 for medical assistance.
As reports of this disturbing incident began to make headlines many wondered if the attack was race based and the mother of the child has stated that it wasn’t via an Instagram post made on Nov.17.
“I have learned the identity of the child involved, but out of respect for his status as a minor, I will not be disclosing his name. What I can share is that he is African American.”
The mother, who does not use her real name on social media, did not respond to multiple AFRO requests for comment. In her post, she said that her family wasn’t the only one impacted by the behavior of the fourth grader in question.
“Since the incident, several parents have come forward to report that their own children were also bullied by this same fourth grader and that they had
“I want to emphasize that my voice is not the only one speaking out, and there is a collective concern from multiple families.”
previously reported these concerns to the school multiple times,” she wrote.
“These parents are now willing to share their experiences publicly. I want to emphasize that my voice is not the only one speaking out, and there is a collective concern from multiple families.”
Although race is not a considerable factor for how or why the unfortunate interaction took place, the child’s parents are disputing the characterization of the incident as “horseplay.”
The child reportedly sustained a neck contusion and other injuries.
Both the elementary school and the school’s district have released statements about the incident.
“I understand that the initial 911 report resulted in a first responder call that shared a possible suicide attempt occurred at our school. This was then posted on social media by a community member, causing a bit of community concern,” wrote Carrie Burke, the school principal. “Charles County Public Schools (CCPS) quickly shared an update with you as well as the Barnhart staff to dispel any inaccurate information beginning to circulate. I apologize for the delay in that update, but our administrative team was addressing the needs of our students.”
Additionally, the Charles County Public Schools (CCPS) superintendent, Maria V. Navarro, Ed.D, also released a statement addressing the situation and assuring the CCPS that this matter isn’t being taken lightly.
“I am aware of the heartache and anger the recent incident at C. Paul Barnhart Elementary School has caused our community and I appreciate the continued support, understanding and patience as Charles County Public Schools (CCPS) and Barnhart administrators work to fully investigate the incident,” the statement read. “CCPS continues to support the families of the students involved. The students are not presently at school. We have been working privately with the families to provide academic and continuous social-emotional support and resources. We also provided additional support for students and staff today at Barnhart and will continue to do so as requested by the school.”
The statement went on to further explain that a full investigation is being done by the school district and discipline is being implemented.
“As of today, we have gathered additional statements from staff and students and completed a thorough review of school camera footage. Based on our investigation so far, we have no reason to believe this was race-related or there was any intent for anyone to be hurt. However, disciplinary consequences following the CCPS Code of Student Conduct are being imposed due to the serious nature of this incident.”
The AFRO contacted the Charles County Sheriff’s Office for commentary about the investigation, however no response was received.
While the school administration emphasized that the situation was addressed promptly and emergency protocols were followed, the family remains dissatisfied with the explanations provided. The boy’s parents have called for further investigation, questioning how such an incident could occur under the guise of “horseplay.”
The case has sparked widespread concern and debate about student safety, bullying and transparency in schools. Investigations into the incident are ongoing, and the family continues to seek clarity and justice for their son.
AP Photo/Ron Frehm, File
The daughters of Malcolm X are suing the FBI, the CIA and the New York Police Department for their alleged roles in the 1965 assassination of their father. Shown here, Malcolm X’s daughters Malikah Shabazz (left), Attallah Shabazz, Malaak Shabazz and Gamilah Shabazz (right), speaking to the media outside the Jacobi Medical Center in the Bronx borough of New York, following the death of their mother, Betty Shabazz, June 23, 1997.
Instagram Photo/ @Ms.Hard2Impress A Charles county family and their community are enraged and concerned
investigation of a second grader being hung in an elementary school bathroom continues.
Camay Calloway Murphy, jazz singer, educator and cultural advocate, dies at 94
By Ericka Alston Buck Special to the AFRO
Camay Calloway Murphy, jazz singer, educator and daughter of the legendary bandleader Cab Calloway, passed away at age 94 on Nov. 12. Known for her unwavering commitment to education, the arts and her community, Murphy was a force of nature in her own right. She dedicated her life to keeping her father’s musical legacy alive while also carving her own path as an advocate for the transformative power of the arts in education. Her impact spans generations and remains deeply woven into the fabric of Baltimore and beyond.
“My mom did everything right,” Peter Brooks, son of the late Callaway Murphy, told the AFRO. “All the people that she came in contact with were better people because of her. She gave until her last day and executed her exit plan perfectly.”
Born in 1930, Murphy grew up in the vibrant, jazz-infused world her father inhabited. Cab Calloway, a star of the Harlem Renaissance, was famous for his showmanship and unforgettable performances, including the classic tunes “Minnie the Moocher” and “Hi De Ho.”
From a young age, Murphy was immersed in the sounds and rhythms of jazz, surrounded by the era’s musical greats. Inspired by her father’s passion and artistry, she embraced her own musical gifts, developing a warm, soulful voice and a stage presence that carried echoes of her father’s charisma and energy. She quickly became known for her heartfelt renditions of jazz stan-
historic landmarks connected to her father and jazz history. She worked to protect Cab Calloway’s childhood home, raising awareness about the significance of these sites as symbols of African American heritage. Her efforts highlighted the importance of safeguarding cultural history so that future generations can continue to connect with the past.
Camay Calloway Murphy’s
legacy lives on in the lives she touched—through the students she inspired, the audiences she moved, and the heritage she preserved. She stood at the intersection of music and education, carrying her father’s spirit forward while leaving her own mark on the world.
Her passing marks the end of an era, but her vision, dedication and contributions will continue to resonate for years to come.
dards, captivating audiences with a style that was both an homage to her father and uniquely her own.
But Murphy’s talents extended well beyond the stage. She was deeply committed to making arts education accessible and meaningful, particularly for Black communities. As one of the first Black principals in Baltimore’s public schools, Murphy broke down racial barriers and set new standards for artsfocused education. She championed the inclusion of music and cultural history in classrooms, recognizing the arts as a tool for self-expression and cultural pride. Her programs and initiatives introduced countless
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bloody colonialism system responsible for millions of lives lost.
Erica Frank, a social studies teacher specialist in Maryland, expressed concern over the topic of Thanksgiving and highlighted the significance of educational approaches to engage students.
“As a historian and curriculum writer, I struggle with how the narrative of Thanksgiving is relayed,” Frank said. “Like many American historical events, I struggle with the fact that from a young age we condition our students to be compassionate of individuals who created harm towards other cultures that still have reverberating impacts on society today.”
Frank was born and raised in Anne Arundel County, Md. and is currently in her 11th year of education. She remembers learning about the holiday during her own formative years.
“Unfortunately, my experience with Thanksgiving in grade school was more of a teaching in nostalgic American history–rather than accurate American history,” Frank told the AFRO
“My grade level holiday themed lessons revolved around making turkey and pilgrim crafts to celebrate the coming together of two cultures during one meal. I was not taught about the Wampanoag tribe or the negative impact of Pilgrims– really, colonists– on Native Americans during this time period,” Frank said. “I appreciate that there are a growing number of resources available which dis-
cuss the varied perspectives. I have seen growth on the secondary level of both teachers and students asking the right questions about this day and other similar topics.”
Though the origins of the holiday go back to Plymouth, Mass., 1621, President Abraham Lincoln formally established Thanksgiving as a holiday in the U.S. over 200 years later in November 1863 during the Civil War. The holiday was created as a social mechanism to develop improved relations among northern states, southern states and tribal nations.
Unbeknownst to many Americans, is the fact that during the previous year, President Lincoln ordered 38 Dakota tribal members to die from hanging after corrupt federal agents prevented the Dakota-Sioux from receiving food and provisions. Members of the tribe retaliated while enduring starvation, causing the Dakota War of 1862.
Lincoln ultimately believed that Thanksgiving created an opportunity to reduce Indigenous populations’ negative sentiments and to restore their relationship with the federal government.
But the loyalty to the holiday runs deep- especially in the classroom, where Thanksgiving is formally introduced during the elementary school years, amid a student’s formative development period.
“I remember as far back as kindergarten, when teachers had us play the roles of pilgrims and Native Americans,” said Erica Sellman, an English Language Arts depart-
students to jazz, opening doors for them to explore their heritage and find inspiration through music.
In addition to her contributions in education, Murphy was a dedicated cultural preservationist. She founded the Cab Calloway Jazz Institute and Museum, which became both a tribute to her father and an invaluable educational resource. Through the institute, young people could learn about jazz’s roots in African American history, understand its role in American culture, and appreciate the contributions of Black artists in shaping modern music.
Murphy was also a relentless advocate for preserving Baltimore’s
ment chair at a middle school in Anne Arundel County. “They separated the class, and the Pilgrim group created a ship while the Native American group created beautiful head pieces from feathers. I recall being upset because I wanted to make a head piece, but I was not in that group.”
The decision of whether to discuss the history of the Thanksgiving holiday in an in-depth manner is largely a matter of an educator’s discretion and dependent upon the educator’s experience and comfortability by addressing the subject with young learners.
“History should be a part of instruction– however, all educators cannot teach sensitive topics without biases,” Sellman said. “It is hard for some educators regardless of ethnicity to discuss some of the context behind historical events, but it can be done, and
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it should be done.”
Rutgers University’s Graduate School of Education provides resources for educators who are interested in teaching about the Thanksgiving holiday in a culturally responsive manner. Their guide, titled “Teaching Thanksgiving the Culturally Responsive Way,” notes how teachers need to start by deconstructing myths surrounding the holiday.
Experts from Rutgers say myths such as “the arrival of The Mayflower was the introduction between the Pilgrims and Native Americans,” need to be addressed, explored and corrected.
“Europeans had already initiated contact with the Wampanoag tribe through violent slave raiding. When The Mayflower arrived, there were at least two Wampanoag tribe members that spoke English, due to traveling to Europe and back,” states in-
more than 30 years military service.
“I always said I wanted to be part of that unit,” she said, before she learned the women served in World War II.
Frazier, along with U.S. Army Col. (Ret.) Edna Cummings, the late U.S. Army Major (Ret.) Edward Cummings and Delores Rudolph, who also retired from the U.S. Army raised money for the first monument to honor the 6888 Battalion, dedicated in 2018 at Buffalo Solider Park at Ft. Leavenworth, Kansas.
It was at the Ft. Leavenworth ceremony that Senator Jerry Moran, (R-K) said aloud to Frazier that the 6888 Battalion should be honored with a Congressional Medal.
“That ceremony put the bug in our ear and Edna began the work of drafting the memos that would soon become legislation,” Frazier said.
Cummings has been very vocal about how she used the archives of the AFRO American Newspapers to find information about the women- right down to the addresses of the more than 855 members of the now internationally known unit.
Legislation honoring the 6888 Battalion with the Congressional Gold Medal was passed by the Senate in 2021 and the
formation from Rutgers University’s guide.
The university explains how the myth of “the Wampanoag tribe wanted to help the Pilgrims” is also wrong because “Wampanoag leader Ousamequin chose to welcome the Pilgrims as a strategy. At the time, his tribe was weak and had lower numbers due to coming in contact with disease. He thought an alliance would help strengthen the tribe and protect against rivals.”
Even the Thanksgiving dinner between the Pilgrims and the Native Americans is steeped in incorrect information, according to the university.
“Annual harvests are a tradition in Native American communities, and the Wampanoag’s annual harvest is what the Pilgrims experienced. In reality, a loose version of Thanksgiving was
established in 1637 by Massachusetts Bay Governor William Bradford,” report historians from Rutgers. “Instead of commemorating a shared feast, the observance celebrated the Anglo-Pequot War, where armed soldiers surrounded the Pequot village and set it on fire, shooting anyone who tried to escape. During the two-year war, 700 Pequot people were killed or enslaved, with the tribe eventually being eliminated.” The guide encourages culturally responsive teaching when it comes to the sensitive topic of Thanksgiving in the classroom.
In 2020, the National Education Association took note of Native educators who declared that lessons on the subject and holiday can be both accurate, respectful and interesting to learn about with an element of commemoration.
AFRO Archives
Camay Calloway Murphy, then chairperson of the Eubie Blake Center board, accepts a donation from Mike Hopcraft, of the Baltimore Ravens Foundation board, at the Ravens Stadium on Dec. 11, 1999. The donation went towards banners to identify the future home of the Eubie Blake Center at 847 Howard Street, and programming to link together the arts community, Baltimore City youth and Ravens football.
AFRO Archives
Camay Calloway Murphy beams with pride after taking the hand of John H. Murphy III in holy matrimony on Feb. 17, 1980. The two are pictured here at their reception, held at the Engineers Club on Mt. Vernon Place, after a noon wedding ceremony at St. James Episcopal Church on Arlington Ave.
U.S. House of Representatives in 2022, when it was signed into law by President Joseph Biden.
Now Hollywood has come to call. In the coming weeks multiple screen-
ings will be held in the D.C., Maryland and Virginia area.
Perry’s film on the Black, all-woman battalion will be released in select theaters on Dec. 6 and on Netflix Dec. 20.
Photo courtesy of National Archives
Maj. Charity E. Adams, (front) and Captain Mary Kearney (back, left), inspect the first contingent of members of the Women’s Army Corps assigned to overseas service with the 6888th Central Postal Directory Battalion in England.
By Keith Boykin
The Monday morning quarterbacks have spoken. Here are five bad takes on the 2024 election.
1. Kamala Harris ran a bad campaign Nah. We’re still crunching the numbers, but the latest estimate shows Harris will end up with about 76 million votes. That’s more votes than Obama got in either of his two elections. More votes than Hillary Clinton got in 2016. And more votes than Trump got in 2016 or 2020. Understandably, we’re judging her based on Joe Biden’s extraordinary turnout of 81 million votes in 2020, but those numbers shattered all existing records because it was a referendum on Trump’s failed presidency after four years of crisis, controversy, COVID-19, and economic collapse.
As for the Electoral College, Trump will end up with 312 electoral votes this year, about the same as Biden in 2020, who got 306.
But let’s not forget what Harris accomplished here. In only 107 days, she set up her own campaign operation, locked down the delegates for the nomination, picked a running mate, staged a successful convention, beat Trump in the debate, raised $1 billion, rolled out her policy positions, crisscrossed the country, picked up major endorsements, generated more enthusiasm than any Democratic nominee since
Courtesy Photo Keith Boykin is a New York Times–bestselling author, television and film producer and former CNN political commentator. A graduate of Dartmouth College and Harvard Law School, Boykin served in the White House, co-founded the National Black Justice Coalition, co-hosted the BET talk show “My Two Cents,” and taught at the Institute for Research in African-American Studies at Columbia University in New York. He’s a Lambda Literary Award-winning author and editor of seven books.
Barack Obama in 2008 and will end up with 2 million more votes than Trump got when he ran as an incumbent president four years ago. In fact, in the swing states of Wisconsin and North Carolina, Harris got more votes than Biden did four years ago. And in Michigan and Georgia, she got more votes than Trump got in 2020.
Five big lies about the 2024 presidential election
Her numbers should have been enough to win in an ordinary election. What she may not have anticipated, and perhaps should have in America, is that a racist, twice-impeached, convicted felon would get more votes in 2024 than when he lost in 2020.
Did Harris run a perfect campaign? No. But to do what she did in just over three months, while taking on the burden of the Biden administration’s handling of Gaza and inflation, is nothing short of astounding.
2. Democrats should have held an open primary First of all, there was no closed primary. As commentator Reecie Colbert noted, any Democrat could have run when Biden dropped out of the race in July, but nobody wanted to step up because they knew it was a tough political environment for the incumbent party.
Who is this imaginary Democratic candidate who would have jumped in the race in July, leapfrogged over the sitting vice president without causing a fracture, united the party, navigated the Gaza issue, separated from Biden’s policies on inflation, overcome Trump’s advantage with racism and bigotry, and led us all to victory? I’ll wait.
3. Identity politics failed Wrong again. Kamala Harris made a conscious decision not to emphasize her race or gender and barely spoke about either one. It was Trump who talked about her turning Black, lied about Haitian immigrants eating dogs and
cats, and held a racist hate rally at Madison Square Garden two weeks before the election.
As Eddie Glaude noted, Trumpism is identity politics, and that worked for him. White identity politics helped him turn out millions of angry Americans to vote. But when White people lean into their identity, as they have for the past six decades by voting exclusively for Republican presidential candidates, they don’t call it identity politics. They just call it politics.
4. It was all about the economy
Not exactly. As I explained in a previous post, Kamala Harris’s proposals were more popular than Trump’s. Trump had no plan to fix inflation. His proposed tariffs would make inflation worse. His rambling speeches and alarming campaign ads focused on scaring voters about transgender issues and illegal immigration, not on fixing the economy. And Black voters, who are disproportionately impacted by the economy, still voted for Harris. Democracy, not the economy, was the biggest concern for all voters.
Yes, one-third of voters ranked the economy as their top issue, but that also underscores my point. The willingness to trust a White failed businessman and convicted criminal with no plan to address inflation and only “concepts of a plan” for health care over a competent Black woman with specific plans is itself a form of racism.
The fact that we have to work twice as hard to get Americans to
listen to an accomplished Black woman instead of a mediocre White man is White supremacy. The fact that people excused Trump’s 3 million job losses during his administration, but penalized Harris for not being perfect is White supremacy. And the fact that we’re even susceptible to Trump’s misinformation is a result of hundreds of years of racist White supremacist programming that has taught us to believe White men and discredit Black voices.
There’s a reason why White men are only 30 percent of the population but 98 percent of all US presidents. It’s not because they’re the only ones qualified. It’s because we’ve been conditioned to believe the White man’s ice is colder.
5. Democrats ignored workingclass voters Wrong. Most Black voters are working class, and we voted overwhelmingly for Kamala Harris. Harris offered $6,000 tax credits for new parents, $25,000 for new homeowners, $50,000 to start a business, an Opportunity Agenda for Black Men, an increase in the minimum wage, penalties for corporate price gougers and support for labor unions. Trump did none of that.
He and the Republicans fought against paid sick leave, paid family and medical leave, universal childcare, universal pre-K, an expanded child tax credit and student loan debt relief, all of which Harris and the Democrats support.
It doesn’t take a genius to figure out which party and which candidate is on the side of the working class. Is it the middleclass Black woman who worked at McDonald’s to pay her way through an HBCU or the rich White guy who spent his childhood being chauffeured around in his daddy’s Cadillac, got his campaign bankrolled by Elon Musk, and put on a McDonald’s apron to pretend to work for an hour but refused to answer a basic question about the minimum wage? \If Democrats really did abandon the working class, why did Harris win voters who earn less than $30,000 a year? That’s the group most affected by the price of groceries, and they still voted for her. So, those are the five bad takes. Are there lessons to be learned for 2028? Absolutely. Is this the end of the Democratic Party? No. Democrats lost to Trump in 2016 and came back four years later and beat him decisively. Does Trump have a mandate to do whatever he wants for the next four years? Hell no. Not any more than Joe Biden did, and Republicans tried to block him every step of the way. While we analyze the data, Trump is busy trying to ram through recess appointments for his cabinet, intimidate federal civil service workers and implement Project 2025. We’ve only got two months until Inauguration Day. Let’s use this time not to fight each other but to fight the threat that looms ahead.
Homecoming must be a safe space for celebration– not gun violence
By Hakim A. Stovall and Sylvia C. Washington
As October ushered in a vibrant homecoming season across historically Black colleges and universities (HBCUs), we are reminded of their profound significance in American history.
Established during a time of segregation and discrimination, HBCUs have served as vital institutions for education, empowerment and community building for generations of Black Americans. They are not just universities; they are cultural hubs, beacons of hope and sanctuaries of resilience.
The recent mass shooting at Tuskegee University, however, has cast a dark cloud over what should be a joyful reunion. The tragic event, which unfolded just days before homecoming celebrations, is a grim reminder of the escalating threats of gun violence targeting these cherished campuses.
The Tuskegee shooting, which resulted in the tragic loss of 18-year-old La’Tavion Johnson, several injuries and forced the cancellation of some homecoming events, highlights a disturbing trend that has become all too familiar at HBCUs in recent years. The violence is not isolated to one campus but is part of a broader pattern that threatens the
homecoming festivities, resulting in injuries to four students and prompting the implementation of a revised security plan focused on surveillance and crowd management. Earlier that year, Delaware State University mourned the tragic loss of Camay Mitchell DeSilva, an 18-yearold visitor shot on campus, which led to increased police presence and community support efforts.
These incidents are part of a larger trend affecting HBCUs. In 2022, Florida
A&M University witnessed a mass shooting at outdoor basketball courts that left one man dead, and four others injured. Similarly, Jackson State University found a student’s body following a shooting incident stemming from an altercation that occurred outside a campus apartment complex.
institutions can harness their insights and resources to create effective safety plans. Additionally, prioritizing funding for technology—such as surveillance systems and emergency response tools— alongside annual training for staff and students will empower the entire campus community to respond effectively to potential threats. These immediate actions will help foster a safer environment for all during critical events.
Empowering Student Organizations and Alumni Engagement in Safety Initiatives
safety of students, alumni and staff. As these institutions continue to serve as sanctuaries of education, empowerment and cultural pride for Black Americans, it is more urgent than ever that steps are taken to safeguard their communities from violence.
A Troubling Trend of Violence Virginia State University , just weeks prior to the Tuskegee shooting, was placed on lockdown on Oct. 14, 2024, following reports of gunfire near Moore Hall. The university police issued an
emergency alert advising students and staff to remain indoors and secure their surroundings. While the lockdown was lifted about an hour later, authorities have yet to release details regarding injuries or suspects involved in the shooting.
That same campus had, in August, experienced another distresssing event, when quadruple shooting injured four individuals.
In 2023, the escalation of gun violence was evident, with Morgan State University experiencing chaos during
What we should think and do in this era
By: Dr. John E. Warren
Now that the election is over, a number of people are experiencing high levels of uncertainty. We should not think that life as we know it has ended. This is a defeatist attitude. What we should remember, especially as Black people, is that if we survived, slavery and past Republican Presidents, we can survive four years of Donald Trump. What we must do is reset our thinking as to what is important and what we must do as a collective people going forward.
Our first order of business during this time must be a return to prayer rather than party politics. We must remember that it was collective prayer by those who came before us that brought us this far. We must learn to act collectively “in spite of” and not “because of” the obstacles in front of us. While this is easier said than done, each of us must start at our own personal level of interaction with those around us, many of whom we may not like. Next, we must adopt an attitude of “no permanent friends, no permanent
enemies, just permanent interest.”
This means that we must re-educate ourselves to how the government works. We have two years to prepare to take back the House of Representatives which the Republican Party has won by a very small number of votes, perhaps less than five. But while we are looking at retaking national parts of government in terms of what’s in our own best interest, we must not ignore local and state issues that will be influenced by the Trump Administration. History has taught us that local attitudes are influenced by national attitudes and the national attitudes have shifted to the extreme right based on Trump’s election. This is not a time for fear, but a time for planning and faith in the fact that we can win even under adverse circumstances. We must restart our local discussion groups. The Black Press, our most trusted messenger, should play a key role in providing such forums but in conjunction with other organizations and groups in our communities. What do you think?
Statistics reveal that over 50 percent of HBCUs have faced terroristic threats in recent years, jeopardizing not only the safety of students and staff but also the economic stability of surrounding communities. Many HBCUs, already struggling with funding, are left to grapple with the long-lasting impacts of such violence. The persistent threat emphasizes the urgent need for enhanced safety measures across campuses to protect students and staff.
The Importance of Safeguarding HBCUs
The historical relevance of HBCUs cannot be overstated. They were founded as a response to systemic inequalities in education, providing a pathway for Black Americans to achieve higher education and professional success when other avenues were denied. HBCUs have produced countless leaders, innovators and change-makers who have shaped the course of history in this country.
Safeguarding these institutions is crucial not only for the students who attend them but also for the communities they serve and the legacies they uphold. Ensuring the safety of homecoming celebrations and campus life is vital for preserving the culture and spirit that define HBCUs.
Immediate Actions for Safety
To address the climate of fear and ensure that homecoming celebrations can be enjoyed without apprehension, HBCUs should focus on two key areas: engaging student organizations and alumni in safety planning and developing a comprehensive safety strategy that includes investment in technology, comprehensive safety audits, and training for staff and students. By involving student organizations and alumni in safety initiatives,
Student organizations play a crucial role in fostering community spirit at HBCUs. By encouraging these groups to participate in safety planning and outreach, universities can promote events that emphasize awareness, resilience and unity. Additionally, engaging alumni in discussions about safety can enhance these efforts. Alumni can contribute their expertise and resources, providing valuable insights and support for developing effective security measures on campus. Together, student organizations and alumni can create a comprehensive approach to safety that strengthens the campus community and fosters a culture of collaboration and responsibility.
Enhancing Campus Safety at HBCUs Through Comprehensive Strategies
To bolster campus security at HBCUs, a multi-faceted approach is essential. First, federal and state governments must prioritize funding specifically for HBCUs, such as the UNCF’s proposed $100 million line item within the FEMA Nonprofit Security Grant Program. This funding would enable institutions to enhance security measures, including better surveillance systems, emergency response training, and mental health resources for students concerned about safety.
These enhancements, however, bring to light critical concerns surrounding equity and privacy, especially when discussing security improvements at HBCUs.
Hakim A. Stovall is a prevention scientist and HBCU graduate with expertise in community violence, aiming to use research principles to analyze social systems, draw conclusions, and implement strategies to address gun violence. Sylvia C. Washington applies an intersectional lens to ensure diversity, equity, inclusion, and anti-racism are centered in gun violence research, advocacy, and assessment.
Photo courtesy of Cheney University LinkedIn/ Dr. Sylvia C. Washington
Hakim A. Stovall is a post-doctoral fellow at the Johns Hopkins Center for Gun Violence Solutions. Dr. Sylvia C. Washington serves as director of Diversity, Equity, Inclusion, and Partnerships at the Center for Gun Violence Solutions, which is operated out of the Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health. This week, the two discuss Black institutions and the multiple homecoming celebrations that have ended in gun fire in recent years.
Photo: Courtesy photo
Dr. John E. Warren is publisher of San Diego Voice and Viewpoint Newspaper.
Could people facing the death penalty lose the right to tell juries their life stories?
By Joe Sexton for The Marshall Project
On a March evening last year, death penalty lawyers, scholars and trained investigators gathered in an Atlanta hotel room to celebrate Wiggins v. Smith. The 20-yearold Supreme Court decision declared that defense lawyers in death penalty cases must thoroughly investigate the lives of those facing execution for evidence that might see them spared.
The court held that lawyers needed to explore a defendant’s medical, educational, family and social histories, as well as religious and cultural influences, and any prior time spent behind bars. Defendants whose lawyers failed to do so, the court ruled, could rightly claim they were victims of inadequate counsel, deprived of a basic constitutional right.
Amid the presentations and discussions, there came a question that stirred alarm among the scores of people in attendance.
Given the conservative majority on the court, was there reason to worry about the implications of a 2022 Supreme Court decision by Justice Clarence Thomas?
Thomas had denied the appeal of the man convicted and sentenced to death for his role in the 2013 Boston Marathon bombing. In doing so, he had once again telegraphed his disdain for the long line of Supreme Court cases—Wiggins included—that established the constitutional right for death penalty defendants to present mitigating evidence that might move a jury to grant them mercy.
Forcing a smile, Donald B. Verrilli Jr., the former U.S. solicitor general and the man who had successfully argued the Wiggins case before the Supreme Court, indicated it was hard to say what level of fear was warranted, but he did not dismiss it. The unease in the room was palpable.
People needed to be prepared, one veteran death penalty lawyer said.
Since the U.S. Supreme Court’s decision in 1976 that allowed the death penalty’s return, its justices have wrestled with arguments over who could be executed and how the life-and death-decisions in capital cases are made.
In Ford v. Wainwright, the court held in 1986 that “insane” people could not be sentenced to die; Atkins v. Virginia in 2002 barred the execution of people with mental disabilities; the 2005 case Roper v. Simmons ruled out executing those who committed their crimes when they were under the age of 18.
For those eligible for the death penalty, the court has repeatedly defined and expanded the requirement that mitigating factors— including, in its language, the “diverse frailties of humankind”—must be considered during the sentencing phase of capital cases.
The 1978 decision in Lockett v. Ohio said judges and juries were entitled to hear any aspects of a defendant’s life that might lead to a decision sparing them. In Skipper v. South Carolina, the court said even a defendant’s conduct after their arrest and conviction—
Justice
Unsplash/ Karsten Winegeart
Anti-death penalty advocates believe the U.S. Supreme Court, currently conservative, could change how life circumstances are considered when a death penalty is handed down in courtrooms across the nation.
model behavior, educational accomplishments, service to others—could be weighed by death penalty juries.
All along, though, any number of conservative judges, Antonin Scalia and Thomas among them, have raised concerns about the use of mitigating factors.
Scalia, in particular, railed against the questionable relevance of what a jury could be told about a defendant’s history, and outright pledged never to honor the court’s precedents supporting the use of such evidence. In the 1990 case Walton v. Arizona, he unleashed his most withering critique.
“Our cases proudly announce that the Constitution effectively prohibits the States from excluding from the sentencing decision any aspect of a defendant’s character or record, or any circumstance surrounding the crime: that the defendant had a poor and deprived childhood, or that he had a rich and spoiled childhood; that he had a great love for the victim’s race, or that he had a pathological hatred for the victim’s race; that he has limited mental capacity, or that he has a brilliant mind which can make a great contribution to society; that he was kind to his mother, or that he despised his mother. Whatever evidence bearing on the crime or the criminal the defense wishes to introduce as rendering the defendant less deserving of the death penalty must be admitted into evidence and considered by the sentencer.”
No basis for such considerations, he
Department demands
records from Illinois sheriff after July killing
The Associated Press
SPRINGFIELD, Ill. (AP)
— The U.S. Justice Department is demanding records related to the shooting of an Illinois woman who was killed in her home by a sheriff’s deputy as it investigates how local authorities treat Black residents and people with behavioral disabilities.
The government made a list of demands in dozens of categories in a letter to the Sangamon County Sheriff’s Office, dated Nov. 14.
“The Sheriff’s Office, along with involved county agencies, has engaged in discussions and pledged full cooperation with the Department of Justice in its review,” Sheriff Paula Crouch said
argued, could be found in the Constitution. The court, he wrote, had properly held that the application of the death penalty could not be random, only to then, through the consideration of a differing and near limitless variety of mitigating factors, make just such randomness all the more likely. Scalia encouraged the court to abandon its prior rulings.
Certainly, today’s Supreme Court has shown a willingness to revisit long-established doctrines—in cases involving abortion, voting rights, gun control, and affirmative action.
And so when Thomas issued his decision in the Boston Marathon bombing case, some in the capital defense community took notice. Lawyers for the convicted bomber had argued that the jury that sentenced him to die had been denied the chance to hear his argument that he’d been manipulated into the terrorist act by his older, domineering, and violent brother.
Thomas was not persuaded, and upheld the trial court judge’s ruling that there was insufficient admissible evidence the bomber’s older brother had a history of prior violence or had effectively coerced him into carrying out the plot. Thomas noted that the court’s decisions over the years had allowed states some ability to limit what they regarded as irrelevant mitigating evidence.
Thomas then took the step of adding a footnote to his decision highlighting the fact that “critics,” as he put it, had long argued the Supreme Court had repeatedly erred in finding a constitutional basis for the use of mitigating factors in death penalty cases.
For some, the modest but pointed footnote seemed to be a forewarning. One capital defense lawyer said such footnotes are often used as “signals” by justices, a way of suggesting they’d be open to revisiting an issue. The lawyer said there were those in the death penalty defense community who were now on guard to see if there might be a case making its way through the courts across the country that the justices could one day agree to hear.
Lee Kovarsky, a professor at the University of Texas School of Law, said throughout his time on the bench, Thomas had been hostile to all sorts of the court’s rulings that placed limits on the death penalty. He said Thomas would be happy to “gut” the court’s prior rulings on mitigating evidence, and likely could count on Samuel Alito and Neil Gorsuch to join him.
But Kovarsky doubted there would be the required five justices willing to do so any time soon. Many states have moved away from capital punishment. That said, Kovarsky was confident there were solicitors general in certain states working to put a case before the nation’s top court.
Kent Scheidegger has spent years arguing and agitating for the Supreme Court to limit or abandon its prior decisions concerning mitigating evidence in capital cases. Scheidegger is the legal director of the Criminal Justice Legal Foundation, a conservative nonprofit organization that says it works to “assure that people guilty of committing crimes receive swift and certain punishment in an orderly and constitutional manner.”
In 2022, Scheidegger filed a “friend of the court” brief with the Supreme Court that attacked the weight given to mitigating factors in death penalty cases, and called for overturning Lockett v. Ohio—the case that first established the use of such evidence. He invoked the Supreme Court’s decisions over the last several years reversing established precedents, the right to abortion among them.
“Lockett meets the criteria for overruling laid out in recent decisions of this Court,” he wrote. “It was egregiously wrong and poorly reasoned.”
In an interview, Scheidegger made the argument Scalia had years ago: Executing people randomly was wrong—but allowing, as he put it, “every scrap of mitigation,” produced just such randomness.
“If you require the consideration of evidence purported to be mitigating, but with little relevance to actual culpability, then results are going to vary,” he said.
Nov. 15.
Sonya Massey, a 36-yearold Black woman, was killed in July when deputies responded to a call about a possible prowler at her home in Springfield, Illinois. She was shot three times during a confrontation with an officer.
Sean Grayson, who is White, was fired. He is charged with murder and other crimes and has pleaded not guilty.
The Justice Department wants to know if the sheriff’s office has strategies when responding to people in “behavioral health crises,” among many other requests.
“The incident raises serious concerns about ... interactions with Black people and people with behavioral health disabilities,” the government said.
Andy Van Meter, chairman of the Sangamon County Board, said the Justice Department’s review is an important step in strengthening the public’s trust in the sheriff’s office.
Photo courtesy Ben Crump Law via AP, File Shown here, Sonya Massey, in an undated photo with her son, Malachi Hill Massey, now 17 years old.
WASHINGTON-AREA
How Washington D.C. is committing to electric vehicles
States across the country are paving the way for electric vehicles (EVs). This green topic is also harshly divided along red and blue lines— which is to say, it’s heavily politicized. In North Carolina and Virginia, for instance, Republican leaders have rolled back or stunted EV initiatives adopted by Democrats.
Donald Trump, who will be inaugurated as president on Jan. 20, 2025, has criticized EVs and federal EV policies under President Joe Biden. Trump later backtracked and said he’s “for electric cars” for a segment of the population after receiving an endorsement from Tesla CEO Elon Musk. But if elected, Trump still intends to undo Biden-era EV incentives.
To cover current EV incentives and get a sense of the impact that rollback could have, Truck Parking Club compiled information from the Department of Energy to illustrate EV regulations and support in Washington D.C. as part of a broader national analysis.
This analysis only includes public incentives and policies and does not include efforts by private entities or utility providers. It lists major incentives and laws listed on the DOE website as of Oct. 1, which in many cases incentivize other alternative fuels like biodiesel and ethanol in addition to EVs. This list is intended to be comprehensive but not necessarily all-encompassing.
Washington D.C. EV policies
These are the incentives, goals, policies, and privileges offered for EVs and other alternative-fuel vehicles in Washington D.C.
Senate
Go-Go Museum and Café opens in Anacostia
By D. Kevin McNeir Special to the AFRO
The Go-Go Museum and Café has officially opened in Anacostia. Residents, artists and go-go lovers from across the D.C., Maryland and Virginia area attended the Nov. 18 ribbon-cutting ceremony, held during the District’s Go-Go Preservation Week, which took place Nov. 17 to Nov. 23.
D.C. Mayor Muriel Bowser emphasized the historic importance of the new cultural center during her remarks.
“We have over 80 museums in Washington, D.C. But until today, we had one that was missing. When people come to visit our city and young people are talking about our history and culture, they will have this place– the Go-Go Museum and Café– to experience,” she said. “They can learn about the legends of Washington, D.C. They’ll also be able to learn more about the intersection between go-go, hip hop and the civil rights movement and how they intersect
with D.C.’s history.”
In 2020, Bowser signed the GoGo Music of the District of Columbia Designation Act, which made go-go the official music of Washington, D.C.
The museum will feature interactive holograms of Backyard Band pioneer Anwan Glover, also known as a star
such as a bomber jacket from Rare Essence and a cutout of the Godfather of Go-Go Music, Chuck Brown.
In the mid-1970s, Washington, D.C. was dubbed “Chocolate City” by the legendary master of funk – George Clinton, the leader and founder of the iconic band, Parliament Funkadelic. The title appropriately described one of the nation’s first cities in which African Americans dominated the local political, business and social scenes. The District also boasted a majority-Black population of an estimated 70 percent.
“A lot of blood sweat and tears went into this day and I am honored to see the culmination of a lot of work led by museum founder and CEO, Ron Moten, and the chief curator, Dr. Natalie Hopkinson, whose vision and dedication were essential in making this museum and café a reality.”
in the popular television series, “The Wire,” and Experience Unlimited’s (EU) front man, Gregory “Sugar Bear” Elliott. Artifacts from those who helped establish go-go music are also included,
But something else was emerging at the same time that would eventually spread from D.C. ‹s Ward 8 community to other urban locales in America and later, around the world.
As a means of selfexpression, young musicians and vocalists forged a new musical genre called go-go because of its ability to keep fans “going and going” on the dance floor. Characterized by Afro-Latin
National Action Network announces 2025 Inauguration Day rally
By Aria Brent AFRO Staff Writer abrent@afro.com
Members of the National Action Network (NAN) will gather civil rights and community leaders from across the nation in protest next year.
On Jan. 20, 2025, which will also be Martin Luther King Jr. Day, Sharpton will hold a rally to speak out against the second presidential inauguration of Donald Trump. On Nov. 19, the organization released a statement with all the details of the event explaining that this rally is in honor of King’s legacy and in opposition to the incoming administration.
“On Martin Luther King Day 2025, as Donald Trump is sworn in, we won’t stand still,” the statement reads. “We will rise up, honor and defend Dr. King’s dream by marching for justice, equality and change.”
Rev. Al Sharpton, founder and president of NAN, has been very vocal about his disapproval of Trump’s political agenda, especially in the weeks following his win of the 2024 presidential election. Most recently, Sharpton criticized the presidentelect’s lack of Black cabinet level nominations.
“In the two weeks since Donald Trump was elected to a second term, he has put forth a dozen troubling nominees, yet the most alarming factor in his proposed cabinet is that not a single candidate is Black,” said Sharpton.
“Trump spent this campaign selling himself to Black vot-
panel approves measure aimed at luring Washington Commanders from Maryland back to D.C.
By Marijke Friedman Capital News Service
A bill that would transfer control of the Robert F. Kennedy Memorial Stadium land from the federal government to the District of Columbia passed a hurdle in the Senate on Nov. 19.
The Senate Energy and Natural Resources Committee voted 17-2 to advance the bill, which still needs approval from the full Senate. The legislation could help bring the NFL’s Washington Commanders back to the nation’s capital, but some Maryland lawmakers are opposed to the bill.
The team currently plays in Northwest Stadium in Landover, Md.
“For the capital city of the United States of America, it’s only befitting that we do this,” Sen. Joe Manchin, I-West Virginia, and chairman of the committee, said. “All we’re doing is basically completing a multifaceted approach to fixing this property and
AP Photo/Nick Wass
Washington Commanders take to the field before an NFL football game against the Pittsburgh Steelers, Nov. 10, 2024, in Landover, Md. Shown here, Percy Butler (#35) (left), Andrew Wylie (#71), Ben Sinnott (#82), Jeremy Chinn (#11), Jordan Magee (#58) and Jayden Daniels (#5) preparing to entertain the crowd in a hard fought game that ultimately ended with a score of 28-27 and a win for the Steelers.
Courtesy of the IG / Office of Mayor Muriel Bowser
D.C. Mayor Muriel Bowser speaks at the Nov. 18 ribbon cutting ceremony for the Go-Go Museum and Café , located at 1920 Martin Luther King Jr. Ave. in Southeast, D.C.
Go-Go Museum and Café
rhythms infused with funk, improvisation and syncopated beats, audiences still today are eager to participate in the energetic live gogo shows that include a signature call and response element, reminiscent of the Black church.
Nearly 50 years have passed since bands like Chuck Brown and the Soul Searchers, The Young Senators, EU, Trouble Funk, Rare Essence and Little Benny and the Masters emerged from Southeast Washington, D.C.
The Nov. 18. opening of the museum, located at 1920 Martin Luther King Jr. Ave., solidified the legacy of go-go music in front of proud native Washingtonians, politicians, clergy and business owners from the area.
D.C. Councilmember Kenyon McDuffie, who initiated efforts to secure go-go as the official music of the District, spoke during the celebration about the importance of the new venue.
“A lot of blood sweat and tears went into this day and I am honored to see the culmination of a lot of work led by museum founder and CEO, Ron Moten, and the chief curator, Dr. Natalie Hopkinson, whose vision and dedication were essential in making this museum and café a reality,” said McDuffie.
“This day is particularly important because there were those who were determined to mute go-go music. That’s why in 2019, I was inspired to sponsor [legislation] that led to D.C. making go-go the official music of Washington, D.C.”
“It’s not just about recognition but preservation, supporting the culture and people who love gogo – the soundtrack of our city,” McDuffie continued. “We’re here to do more than just open a museum but to solidify go-go’s place in the history and everyday lives of D.C. residents who have been doing this for more than 50 years.”
Moten echoed McDuffie’s sentiments.
“We’ve never had anything here in Southeast built by the people that represented our town and our community and I’m so glad that we finally have this space,” Moten said.
The more than 8,000 square foot venue will open to the public on Feb. 19, 2025, and includes a café, three exhibition and interactive areas, a recording studio and an outdoor stage
for live performances.
Darryll Brooks, the coowner of CD Enterprises Inc. and one of the first concert promoters to support go-go music, said he had goosebumps over his body as he considered the historic nature of the day.
“What transpired in Anacostia Park back in the 70s was a breeding ground for local bands,” Brooks said. “I’m very proud that we are here today to celebrate something that our ancestors brought forth and fought for centuries ago. That heartbeat that drumbeat came way before we got here. And a lot of people prayed for us to get here.”
“It was a brotherhood and a community that made gogo happen,” he continued. “I urge you to give thanks to and patronize this place and help to make this town what it’s supposed to be.”
Weather Any Storm.
Continued
Government goals, policies and requirements:
- Aims to achieve 25 percent zero-emission vehicle registrations by 2030
- Starting in 2026, requires government entities to only acquire zero-emission vehicles, unless there are no equivalent models available
- Requires 70 percent of certain new fleet purchases to be clean fuel vehicles
- Executive office of the mayor to establish a transportation electrification program, which will require all buses, large private fleets, commercial motor carriers, limo services, and taxis to be zero-emission vehicles by 2045
- Requires transportation network companies to complete emissions reduction plans, including increasing zero-emission vehicles among drivers
Monetary incentives:
- Offers income tax credit for equipment and labor costs to convert vehicles to alternative fuel, or to purchase and install alternative fuel infrastructure (for businesses and individuals)
- Exempts some EVs from excise tax on certificate of title, including original and sub-
sequent purchasers
Privileges, protections and exemptions:
- Exempts certified clean fuel vehicles from time-of-day and day-of-week restrictions and commercial vehicle bans, if part of a fleet of at least 10 vehicles in D.C.
- Allows EV owners to utilize curbside charging if they don’t have designated offstreet parking
External collaborations:
- The Mid-Atlantic Electrification Partnership, which supports the deployment of EVs and EV chargers throughout the region
- Multi-State Zero-Emission Vehicle Task Force
Other:
- Department of Transportation required to install at least 15 public EV charging stations throughout the district and collect data on their use
This story originally appeared on Truck Parking Club and was produced and distributed in partnership with Stacker Studio.
The Go-Go Museum and Café is born out of the Don’t
Mute D.C. movement, which began in 2019 after a neighborhood dispute over the playing of go-go music in public spaces. Today, go-go music is the official music of the nation’s capital with a museum to solidify its legacy.
AP News
Electric vehicles are changing the face of transportation, giving way to conversations about the use of green energy in a contentious political environment.
ers, especially men, by peddling sneakers and implying his criminal convictions would resonate with our community. Instead of meeting the demands of more Black voters who supported him, Donald Trump has proposed an Attorney General nominee wrapped up in an ethics probe over trafficking allegations and a Health Secretary whose views on vaccines and other safeguards could devastate our community.”
The Jan. 20, 2025 rally will kick off at the Metropolitan AME Church in Washington, D.C. NAN is calling on the Black community and its allies to “take a stand” and “continue to turn Dr. King’s legacy into action.”
Civil rights activist and faith leader Rev. Al Sharpton, known for founding the National Action Network, invites members of the Black community and their allies to protest on Inauguration Day 2025, traditionally held on Jan. 20. The rally will take place on Martin Luther King Jr. Day, which is recognized annually on the third Monday in January. Shown here, Sharpton speaking at the DNC convention ahead of the 2024 presidential election.
making it something we can all be proud of.”
The House overwhelmingly passed the bill in February by a vote of 348-55. All of Maryland’s representatives either voted against or did not vote on the legislation.
“Like other members of the Maryland delegation, I believe Prince George’s County in Maryland should be able to compete on a level playing field to keep the Washington Commanders,” Rep. Glenn Ivey, D-Maryland, said on the House floor ahead of the vote in February. “This bill transfers control over federal government property at no apparent cost to the District of Columbia.”
Many Maryland lawmakers, including Ivey, hope to keep the Washington Commanders’ stadium in Prince George’s County. The team has played there since 1997. The stadium was ranked by The Athletic in 2023 as one of the worst NFL venues.
Maryland Gov. Wes Moore told Capital News Service (CNS) last spring that local officials are putting together a strong deal to encourage the Commanders to stay in Maryland. These efforts include constructing a new stadium in Landover and investing in the area.
Moore said in a statement to Capital News Service (CNS)
on Nov. 19 that Maryland is continuing to make its case that the team should stay in the state.
“When the Commanders moved to Prince George’s County in the 90s, they bought the land where they built the stadium from the government at around fair market value. I don’t see why they shouldn’t play by the same rules now,” Moore said. “The RFK bill as currently written could let the Commanders essentially develop this land for free.”
Sen. Chris Van Hollen, D-Maryland, said Maryland has served as the proud home of the Commanders for more than 20 years and that he wants to make sure the process of choosing a new stadium is fair.
“Our priority is not to block the transfer of the RFK property from the National Park Service to the District of Columbia, but to ensure a fair process in the selection of a Commanders stadium site and prevent actions that unfairly tilt the scales in favor of one location over another at the expense of federal taxpayers,” Van Hollen said in a statement to CNS on Nov. 19.
The RFK Stadium was home to the then-Washington Redskins from 1961 through 1996. The stadium also was home to the Washington Senators baseball team until 1971, and, more
recently, Major League Soccer’s D.C. United and the Washington Nationals. The stadium is currently vacant and is set to be demolished.
The bill would allow the District of Columbia to redevelop the land, which currently belongs to the National Park Service, for a new stadium or other purposes.
“Today’s vote marks a pivotal moment in our efforts to unlock the potential of the RFK Campus by transforming this underutilized space into a vibrant hub of affordable housing, world-class recreational facilities, green spaces, and economic opportunity for District residents and visitors alike,” Washington Mayor Muriel Bowser said in a statement. “We look forward to a full vote on the Senate floor so we can get it signed into law before year’s end.”
Bowser supports the Commanders moving back to the district and has discussed the matter with Josh Harris, the team’s owner. Harris has previously expressed interest in moving the Commanders to a new stadium at the RFK site and has been advocating for the bill’s passage.
“Let’s go Commanders,” Manchin said after the panel’s votes had been counted.
Medicare plans change every year, so can your health. Visit Medicare.gov to see all your options side by side and compare coverage, costs, and quality ratings.
New in 2025, all Medicare plans will include a $2,000 cap on what you pay out of pocket for covered prescription drugs.
The cap only applies to drugs that are covered by your plan, so it’s more important than ever to review your plan options to make sure your drugs are covered.
Get help with drug costs.
If you are struggling with your prescription drug costs, Extra Help is a Medicare program that can help pay for your drug coverage (Part D) premiums, deductibles, and other out-of-pocket costs. If you make less than $23,000 a year, it’s worth it to apply. Visit ssa.gov/extrahelp to complete an application.
AP Photo/Paul Sancya
Photo courtesy of the National Action Network
Howard University hosts 2024 HBCU Honors
By Michelle Bailey Special to the AFRO
The second annual HBCU Honors took place inside of Howard University’s historic Cramton Auditorium on Nov. 14.
The prestigious event, which serves as a time to celebrate Black excellence at historically Black colleges and universities (HBCUs), is scheduled to air on BET on Dec. 1, at 8 p.m. Eastern Time.
The ceremony was hosted by award-winning actress and comedian Kym Whitley, a proud alumna of Fisk University. The event recognized influential HBCU alumni, including filmmaker Will Packer, a graduate of Florida A and M University; The legendary inventor of the “super soaker” water gun, Dr. Lonnie Johnson, an alumnus of Tuskegee University, and tech entrepreneur Jewel Burks Solomon, an alumnus of Howard University.
The ceremony also included a special corporate spotlight, recognizing HBCU alumni who are making an impact in their career fields and communities, while demonstrating excellent leadership, innovation and commitment to advancing the HBCU legacy. Honorees included Tanya Lombard graduate of Xavier University of Louisiana, who serves as vice president of global public policy at AT&T; Carmen Brown, a Spelman College alumna who is director of the Global Media Foundation and consumer marketing at Meta (Facebook) and NBA star Chris Paul, a Winston-Salem State University alumnus. Brandon McEachern, a North Carolina Central University alumnus, was also honored alongside Marcus Allen, a graduate of North Carolina A and T, who together co-founded Broccoli City.
The evening featured captivating performances from Grammy awardwinning artists such as Fantasia, Hezekiah Walker, Erica Campbell, MC Lyte, the Virginia Union University Choir and more.
A special highlight of the event was the recognition of the Howard University Skating Team, the first intercollegiate figure skating team at an HBCU. Members of the team were recognized for breaking barriers and promoting inclusivity in their sport. The ceremony also included a heartfelt tribute to the Divine Nine Black Greek-letter organizations, led by Grammy Award-winning artists J. Ivy and Tarrey Torae, and celebrated rising talent, including Imani-Grace Cooper, recognized as this year’s HBCU Rising Star.
Adding to the celebration, Racquel Oden, chair of the Thurgood Marshall College Fund Board, delivered an inspiring presentation emphasizing the organization’s impact on HBCUs through scholarships, leadership development and career pathways.
AFRO Photos / Patricia McDougall
Michelle Bailey is the visionary and founder behind the HBCU Honors.
Award-winning actress and comedian Kym Whitley, a proud alumna of Fisk University, serves as mistress of ceremonies.
Grammy award-winning gospel artist Hezekiah Walker performs live at the HBCU honors with the Virginia Union University Choir.
Howard University Skating Team, the first intercollegiate figure skating team at a historically Black institution, receives special recognition at the HBCU Honors.
The famed inventor of the “super soaker” water gun, Dr. Lonnie Johnson, an alumnus of Tuskegee University, is honored at the HBCU Honors.
Birice Packer (left) and Nina Packer pose with film producer and HBCU Honors recipient Will Packer, a graduate of Florida A and M University.
Raquel Oden (left), board chair of the Thurgood Marshall Fund (TMCF), presents Alyssa Henson with a scholarship.
McKenzie Estep, the 2024 Miss Black District of Columbia USA, graces the red carpet.
Aisha Braveboy, state’s attorney of Prince George’s County, Md., attends the HBCU Honors in D.C.
Celebrity Artist MC Lyte arrives as one of several artists to perform at Howard University on Nov. 14.
Celebrity singer Fantasia performs for the audience at Howard University on Nov. 14.
Erica Campbell, gospel singer and songwriter, hits the stage.
Joe Clair (left) and Autumn Joi Live (right) pose with Baltimore’s Hana Pugh Scott and Baltimore City Mayor Brandon M. Scott.
Three recipes to put on the Thanksgiving table this year
By Aria Brent AFRO Staff Writer abrent@afro.com
Thanksgiving is the perfect time to gather with loved ones, share gratitude and kick off the holiday season. While it’s said that Thanksgiving is not the time to try new recipes and experiment with the dishes people love, the AFRO team empathizes with kitchen novices and those looking to jazz up the usual holiday offerings. Read below for three recipes, full of flavor, easy to make and sure to please!
Garlic
parmesan mashed potatoes
Miso maple brussels sprouts with bacon
Pinwheels with goat cheese and sundried tomato pesto
Mashed potatoes are a part of the starting line up when it comes to Thanksgiving foods and this recipe is guaranteed to be a slamdunk with anyone who comes to dinner. This recipe uses heavy cream as one of its main components which helps make the mashed potatoes creamy and smooth. The savory garlic flavor and saltiness of the parmesan go great with potatoes and will complement any other dishes served with it this holiday season.
Yields: 6 servings
Prep time: 10 minutes
Cook time: 20-25 minutes
Ingredients:
6 large Russet potatoes, peeled and chunked
4 tablespoons unsalted butter, cubed
8 garlic cloves
1 cup grated Parmesan cheese, plus extra for garnish
¾ cup heavy cream
½ cup sour cream
½ tbsp thyme
Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
Instructions:
1.) Place the potatoes in a large pot and cover with cold water. Add a dash of salt. Bring to a boil over high heat and cook until the potatoes are easily pierced with a fork.
2.) In a small pot add the heavy cream, thyme and five garlic cloves. Set to a medium to low heat and let simmer until garlic is tender and the mixture is aromatic.
3.) Mince remaining garlic cloves.
4.) Drain potatoes and add to a large bowl along with heavy cream mixture. Take a potato masher and begin to gently mash your potatoes. Once your potatoes are fully mashed, make the rest of the dish with a rubber spatula or wooden spoon.
5.) Fold in the butter and mix until butter is fully melted and absorbed into the potatoes.
6.) Add in sour cream and parmesan cheese and combine until the cheese is melted and the mixture is smooth.
7.) Season with salt and pepper for taste. Garnish with leftover parmesan cheese.
8.) Enjoy!
Commentary
By Taalib Saber
As the holiday season approaches, the nation prepares for one of the busiest sales periods of the year. Promotions, special deals and heightened online activity make this an ideal time to attract new customers.
However, customer attraction also brings unique legal challenges. Whether you’re launching seasonal marketing campaigns or handling increased sales, you must ensure local, state and federal compliance to safeguard your brand. Here are some key legal tips that you should consider as you navigate this terrain.
Define clear terms and conditions for promotions
Promotional deals, discounts, and limitedtime offers are incredibly powerful tools that boost engagement and attract new clients. But without clear terms and conditions, they can also lead to misunderstandings and even legal disputes. To avoid any issues, be explicit about eligibility criteria, timeframes, redemption limitations, and any exclusions.
By clearly defining these terms upfront, you not only protect your business from potential disputes but also build credibility with your customers, who appreciate transparency. Any agreement you draft should have well-crafted and explicit terms and conditions to avoid ambiguity regarding your promotion.
Protect your brand with trademark and copyright compliance
The holiday season inspires creativity.
These brussel sprouts are the perfect combination of savory sweet with a little bit of spice. Cook them until they’re crispy on the outside and tender on the inside and watch how quickly they disappear. This recipe is super easy as is but customizing it is really simple too. Add in flavors like garlic or ginger to take this dish to a whole new level and if you’re looking for a little extra sweetness, sprinkle some brown sugar on top before placing them back in the oven.
Yields: 4 servings
Prep time: 15 minutes
Cook time: 35-40 minutes
Ingredients:
1 lb Brussels sprouts, trimmed and halved (or quartered if large)
8 slices bacon, diced
3 tbsp pure maple syrup
2 tbsp white miso paste
1 ½ tbsp soy sauce
1 tbsp balsamic vinegar
½ tbsp dijon mustard
¼ tbsp red pepper chili flakes
2 tsp of olive oil
2 tsp bacon grease
Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
Instructions:
1.) In a large skillet cook the diced bacon until crispy. Remove the bacon with a slotted spoon and set aside, reserving about 2 teaspoons of the bacon grease for later in the recipe.
2.) Preheat your oven to 400°F
3.) Toss your brussel sprouts with olive oil and season with salt in pepper. Place on a baking tray and place in the oven for 25 minutes or until brussels sprouts begin to brown.
4.) In a medium sized bowl whisk together miso paste, maple syrup, balsamic vinegar, bacon grease, dijon mustard, salt, and pepper. Mix until well combined. Taste the glaze and adjust the flavor to fit your liking.
5.) Remove the Brussels sprouts from the oven and toss in the glaze along with red pepper chili flakes. Spread back onto the baking sheet and place back in the oven for an additional 10-15 minutes.
6.) Once done cooking, top with bacon.
7.) Enjoy!
Sometimes getting the entire Thanksgiving spread together can take longer than anticipated. With that unexpected wait time, guests can grow hangry and irate–serve them these delicious puff pastry pinwheels to keep the atmosphere nice and calm while finishing up the main course. These are easy to make on the spot but can also be made in advance. Just pop them in the oven or airfryer for about 15 minutes whenever your loved ones seem to be in need of a snack.
Yields: About 10 pinwheels
Prep time: 30 minutes Cook time: 12-15 minutes
Ingredients:
1 sheet of puff pastry dough, at room temperature
4 oz garlic and herb goat cheese, at room temperature ½ cup sun dried tomato pesto
1 cup mozzarella cheese
1 tbsp Italian seasoning
Instructions:
Move your puff pastry from the freezer to the fridge about a day in advance to thaw. Set your dough out about 2 hours before preparing this recipe.
1.) Lightly flour a cutting board and unfold your puff pastry. Gently roll out your dough with a rolling pin. Use your fingertips to evenly spread out your dough.
2.) Use a spoon to evenly spread your softened goat cheese on your dough.
3.) Add your sun dried tomato pesto on top of your goat cheese and smooth spread it out.
4.) Sprinkle your mozzarella cheese and Italian seasoning on top of your pesto.
5.) Tightly roll your puff pastry into a log and refrigerate for 20 minutes
6.) Cut your log into slices– you should end up with about 10 pieces. Evenly place them onto a baking sheet.
7.) Place in the oven for about 15-20 minutes or until pinwheels are golden brown and the cheese is melted and bubbly.
8.) Enjoy!
How to legally prepare your business for holidays
eventually, to costly lawsuits. Additionally, ensure that your original content is protected, too, by registering your trademark, if applicable. Originality not only prevents legal troubles but also strengthens your brand’s reputation in the market.
Prioritize data protection and compliance
In today’s digital age, gathering customer data is as gold but it is extremely sensitive information and comes with responsibility. Data breaches are costly and can damage your reputation beyond repair, especially if customer data is mishandled.
To comply with data protection laws, only collect essential information, securely store it, and have clear privacy policies outlining how data is used. Failing to protect customer data can lead to hefty fines and loss of customer trust, so taking steps to enhance your data protection practices is crucial.
Manage increased demand with secure supplier agreements
However, businesses must avoid infringing on copyrighted or trademarked materials belonging to other brands. Using copyrighted holiday graphics, music, or phrases without permission can lead to stalled sales and
The holiday season can put a strain on your supply chain, and managing inventory is key to keeping customers satisfied and protecting your business. Review and update your supplier contracts well before the holiday rush to clarify terms around inventory, delivery timelines, and contingencies for potential delays. If demand exceeds your expectations, having a well-refined agreement ensures you have the support needed to fulfill orders. Additionally, understanding the penalties or provisions in case of supplier defaults can save your business from unexpected costs and help you plan better.
Adhere to advertising laws
While it may be tempting to use bold claims to stand out, remember that advertising is subject to strict regulations. The Federal Trade Commission (FTC) requires that businesses avoid false or misleading advertising. This means any claims you make in your holiday campaigns, from product benefits to limited-time offers, must be truthful and verifiable.
Failure to comply can result in fines, legal action, and/or a damaged reputation. Transparent advertising not only keeps your business compliant but also helps to foster customer loyalty.
Legal readiness strengthens customer trust and brand integrity
Preparing your business legally for holiday promotions isn’t just about avoiding fines, penalties, or sanctions—it’s about building a foundation of trust with your customers. When your promotions are legally sound, customers can shop confidently, knowing that your brand prioritizes transparency, safety and reliability. In the competitive holiday market, these qualities can set your business apart.
By setting clear terms and conditions, safeguarding intellectual property, protecting consumer data, securing supplier relationships, and adhering to advertising laws, you’re taking concrete steps to ensure that your holiday promotions run smoothly. Legal compliance may not seem as festive as holiday decorations, but it’s the cornerstone of a successful, resilient and trustworthy business strategy.
Courtesy photo Attorney Taalib Saber is founder of The Saber Firm, located in Greenbelt, Md. This week, he speaks on preparing for the holiday season as a business owner.
Local entrepreneurs to bring popular flea market to Coppin State University
By Megan Sayles AFRO Business Writer msayles@afro.com
Owner and Creatress of Blk Ass Flea Mkt Brianne Mobley is taking back Black Friday once again with Blk Ass Friday on Nov. 29. The market will be held in West Baltimore at Coppin State University’s College of Business, showcasing a variety of wares from 50 Black-owned businesses.
The event was first put on in 2022, attracting a strong turnout. Mobley decided to bring it back in 2024 to continue amplifying the importance of circulating the Black dollar in the Black community.
“We have this catchphrase called, ‘keeping the coin in the community.’ That’s one of the pillars of work that we do,” said Mobley. “That’s why Blk Ass Friday is coming back. It’s a magical day because we are reclaiming it and keeping our dollar in our community.”
Brianne Mobley is the founder of Blk Ass Flea Market, which brings together a number of Black-owned businesses for the community to shop from. On Nov. 29, she will host Blk Ass Friday at Coppin State University’s College of Business, encouraging people to keep the Black dollar in the African-American community as they prepare for the holidays.
According to the McKinsey Institute for Black Economic Mobility, the spending power of Black consumers in 2019 was $910 billion. That number is expected to grow to $1.7 trillion by 2030. In spite of this massive collective economic power, the Black dollar has a relatively short life span in Black communities.
Mobely picked up on this information and wanted to do her part in changing it. Before starting Blk Ass Flea Mkt, she was a full-spectrum doula, serving Black mothers in the birthing and postpartum space. As part of the work, she organized community events for women and moms— many of whom were also entrepreneurs and creatives.
and seeing Black joy as our resistance,” Mobley. “It ended up being a movement that the city needed I guess because it was supposed to be a one-day pop-up, but people said they needed me to come back.”
Mobley held the first Blk Ass Flea Mkt in May 2021 with about 15 businesses participating. Since then, it’s grown to feature as many as 80 businesses. Patrons and vendors come from out of town to attend.
“Blk Ass Flea Mkt was born from the importance Black joy and seeing Black joy as our resistance.”
After watching the COVID-19 pandemic devastate Black businesses across the city, she shifted her focus to finding a way to inspire joy in her community.
“Blk Ass Flea Mkt was born from the importance Black joy
After each gathering, Mobley conducts a survey to better understand the challenges entrepreneurs face. She then uses their responses to inform the curriculum for Blk Ass University, a continuum of resources for Black business owners. Past workshops include vendor booth setup, social media basics and crafting press releases.
The market continues to be nomadic with previous locations, including Baltimore Peninsula, the Baltimore Museum of Industry and the Reginald F. Lewis Museum of Maryland African American History and Culture, but Mobley is striving to secure a permanent home in the city. One day, she hopes to make Blk Ass Flea Mkt a traveling event across the country, visiting cities across America and energizing their local Black businesses.
“Baltimore is in a modern-day Black renaissance,” said Mobley. “The people that are coming here are looking to us as the magicians when it comes to Black magic. We are what makes the city cool and continue to thrive.”
Shannon Johnson, owner of B. Marie Accessories, first attended Blk Ass Flea Mkt as a shopper in 2022. The West Baltimore native said she grew up frequenting community markets and festivals with her family. Browsing through handmade items
By Stacy Brown NNPA Newswire
Rapper T.I. and singer Tameka “Tiny” Harris have emerged victorious in a major lawsuit against toy company MGA Entertainment, securing a $71 million judgment. The couple, alongside their music group OMG Girlz, accused MGA of violating their intellectual property rights by copying the group’s image and style for the company’s popular L.O.L. Surprise!
O.M.G. dolls.
The case, which spanned over three years, concluded when a jury ruled in favor of the Harris family. According to People magazine, Tiny, 49, was elated as she shared her thoughts in an Instagram Live video outside the Santa Ana, California federal courthouse.
Reflecting on the yearslong legal battle, she said, “It was a hell of a fight. We couldn’t be more happy.”
Tiny expressed profound gratitude to the jurors, who delivered a unanimous verdict. “They heard our story and they knew we [weren’t] lying. It’s amazing,” she said.
The lawsuit, initiated in 2020, focused on more than a dozen L.O.L. Surprise! O.M.G. dolls that strongly resemble the OMG Girlz, a group Tiny formed in 2009 with her daughter, Zonnique Pullins, along with Bahja Rodriguez and Breaunna Womack. According to the court, MGA had “infringed on the trade dress and misappropriated the name, image and likeness” of the group, particularly their outfits and hairstyles.
People magazine noted that the jury awarded $53.6 million in punitive damages in addition to the initial settlement, an outcome that surprised even Tiny.
“I mean, wow. They did more than I thought they would,” she told Rolling Stone after the verdict. “I would have been happy with whatever. They blessed us more than beyond.”
The OMG Girlz themselves testified during the three-week trial, recalling specific public events and photos where the dolls copied their unique wardrobe and style.
and supporting business owners from her community became something she looked forward to.
That same year, she was accepted to be a vendor at Blk Ass Flea Mkt. She said the experience helped to elevate her business.
“I’ve made connections at Blk Ass Flea Mkt that have turned into collaborations and friendships, and I’ve had beautiful moments meeting old friends too,” said Johnson. “It’s truly grown to be more than a market showcasing Black-owned businesses to shop from and curating events celebrating Black culture, but an energized community of multi-talented, multi-dimensional people excited to meet you where you are.”
Johnson’s brand was born in 2020 out of her love for selfexpression through accessorizing. She named it after her mother, “B,” who inspired her sense of style. B. Marie Accessories offers curated collections of quality, affordable fashion jewelry and branded eyewear.
Johnson will again serve as a vendor at Blk Ass Friday.
“Markets like Blk Ass Flea Mkt are critical for Black businesses because there can be hidden and not so hidden barriers to the success of our businesses. We’re not always welcome in other spaces, or we don’t always receive the resources needed to excel. When we find our people and pour into each other, we can go further together.”
Queneisha J. Harvey, owner of Le Bleu Bodycare, will also be participating in Blk Ass Friday. The Miami native is new to the area, having just relocated to Baltimore in June 2023. Hearing about the close-knit creative community in Charm City led her to make the move.
She devised the concept for Le Bleu Bodycare during her pregnancy. At the time, she wanted to become more intentional about the products she was using as she prepared for motherhood. After researching and testing out homemade products in her home, she launched the natural fragrance house and wellness studio. Her brand nixes the common use of harmful chemicals, like phthalates, carcinogens and parabens.
Harvey participated in her first Blk Ass Flea Mkt last spring. The experience confirmed what she’d been hearing about the solidarity of the Black creative community in Baltimore.
“Everybody was just very supportive, whether they were a vendor or they were shopping. They all had an interest, and they all wanted to support you financially and they all wanted to learn more about your product,” said Harvey. “The Blk Ass Flea Mkt team truly makes you feel like you are family.”
This story is part of the Digital Equity Local Voices Fellowship lab. The lab initiative is made possible with support from Comcast NBC Universal.
Womack shared her emotional reaction, telling Rolling Stone, “I’m so grateful and overwhelmed with joy.”
Pullins added that when the jurors unanimously recognized the group’s memorable style, “We all silently cried.”
T.I. also reflected on the case, criticizing MGA for attempting to dismiss the lawsuit as a “money grab.”
“That kind of condescension comes from when you’re not really in touch with the reality of culture,” he said in an interview with Rolling Stone. The rapper emphasized that MGA’s actions were exploitative, stating, “They were the ones that came and ripped us off, and [they] expected us to not have the audacity to stand up and speak for ourselves.”
Photo courtesy of Brianne Mobley
Photo by Olesha Haskett, OhExperience
Queneisha J. Harvey is the owner of Le Bleu Bodycare, an all natural, organic line of fragrances that are made with clean ingredients.
of
including name, address and relationship. Date of first publication: NOVEMBER 08, 2024
Floor, Washington, D.C. 20001, on or before MAY 08, 2025. 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 MAY 08, 2025 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: NOVEMBER 08, 2024 Name of newspaper and/or periodical: Daily Washington Law Reporter AFRO American Newspapers
CHERRYL R SMITH Personal Representative TRUE TEST COPY REGISTER OF WILLS 11/08, 11/15, 11/22/24
SUPERIOR COURT OF THE DISTRICT OF COLUMBIA PROBATE DIVISION ADMINISTRATION NO. 2024ADM001256 DUANE CROONS Name of Decedent Notice of Appointment, Notice to Creditors and Notice to Unknown Heirs DUANE PAGE , whose address is 3404 PARKWAY
Name of newspaper and/or periodical: Daily Washington Law Reporter AFRO American Newspapers NAKIA THOMAS GARRICK VINCENT THOMAS JR. Personal Representative TRUE TEST COPY REGISTER OF WILLS 11/08, 11/15, 11/22/24
SUPERIOR COURT OF THE DISTRICT OF COLUMBIA PROBATE DIVISION 2024ADM001325 Estate of HELEN E. BRINSON AKA HELEN ELIZABETH BRINSON Deceased NOTICE OF STANDARD PROBATE (For estates of decedents dying on or after July 1, 1995)
Notice is hereby given that a petition has been filed in this Court by WILLIE RAY HALL for standard probate, including the appointment of one or more personal representatives. Unless a responsive pleading in the form of a complaint or an objection in accordance with Superior Court Probate Division Rule 407 is filed in this Court within 30 days from the date of first publication of this notice, the Court may take the action hereinafter set forth.
* admit to probate the will dated MAY 12,
PROBATE DIVISION ADMINISTRATION NO.
CAMPBELL CARRINGTON JOHNSON, III Name of Decedent Notice of Appointment, Notice to Creditors and Notice
JOCELYN D. MOORE , whose address is 1146 27TH AVENUE, SACRAMENTO, CA 95822 was appointed Personal Representative of the estate of CAMPBELL CARRINGTON JOHNSON, III, who died on AUGUST 12, 2024 without a Will and will serve without Court supervision.
20001, on or before MAY 08, 2025. 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 MAY 08, 2025 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: NOVEMBER 08, 2024 Name of newspaper and/or periodical: Daily Washington Law Reporter AFRO American Newspapers
JOCELYN D. MOORE Personal Representative TRUE TEST COPY REGISTER OF WILLS 11/08, 11/15, 11/22/24
SUPERIOR COURT OF THE DISTRICT OF COLUMBIA PROBATE DIVISION ADMINISTRATION NO. 2024ADM001239 DORIS INEZ AGER Name of Decedent
WILLIAM A. BLAND, ESQUIRE 80 M STREET, SE #330 WASHINGTON, DC 20003 Notice of Appointment, Notice to Creditors and Notice to Unknown Heirs
ROBERT LEE AGER, whose address is 3520 11TH STREET NW, WASHINGTON, DC 20010 was appointed Personal Representative of the estate of DORIS INEZ AGER, who died on FEBRUARY 07, 2016
TERR DRIVE SUITLAND MARYLAND #4 20746 was appointed Personal Representative of the estate of DUANE CROONS, who died on JULY 21, 2024 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 MAY 08, 2025. 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 MAY 08, 2025 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: NOVEMBER 08, 2024 Name of newspaper and/or periodical: Daily Washington Law Reporter AFRO American Newspapers
DUANE PAGE Personal Representative
TRUE TEST COPY REGISTER OF WILLS 11/08, 11/15, 11/22/24
SUPERIOR COURT OF THE DISTRICT OF COLUMBIA PROBATE DIVISION ADMINISTRATION NO. 2024ADM1037
GAYLE ANNETTE SUTTON Name of Decedent CAROL S. BLUMENTHAL BLUMENTHAL, CORDONE & ERKLAUER PLLC 7325 GEORGIA AVE WASHINGTON, DC 20012 Notice of Appointment, Notice to Creditors and Notice to Unknown Heirs
CHARLES SUTTON, whose address is 6 BRITTANY A, DELRAY BEACH, FL 33446 was appointed Personal Representative of the estate of GAYLE ANNETTE SUTTON, who died on MAY 24, 2024 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 MAY 08, 2025. 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 MAY 08, 2025 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: NOVEMBER 08, 2024 Name of newspaper and/or periodical: Daily Washington Law Reporter AFRO American Newspapers
CHARLES SUTTON Personal Representative
TRUE TEST COPY
REGISTER OF WILLS 11/08, 11/15, 11/22/24
of its publication shall so inform the Register of Wills, including name, address and relationship. Date of first publication: NOVEMBER 08, 2024 Name of newspaper and/or periodical: Daily Washington Law Reporter AFRO American Newspapers ROBERT LEE AGER Personal Representative TRUE TEST COPY REGISTER OF WILLS 11/08, 11/15, 11/22/24
SUPERIOR COURT OF THE DISTRICT OF COLUMBIA
PROBATE DIVISION ADMINISTRATION NO. 2024ADM001277
GARRICK VINCENT THOMAS SR. Name of Decedent
TYECHIA L. WHITE, ESQ. 300 NEW JERSEY AVE, NW SUITE 300 WASHINGTON, DC 20001
Notice of Appointment, Notice to Creditors and Notice to Unknown Heirs
NAKIA THOMAS AND GARRICK VINCENT THOMAS, JR. , whose addresses are 521 HANK AARON DRIVE SW, #431-A, ATLANTA GA, 30312; 30665 STUDENT SERVICES CENTER LN. PRINCESS ANNE, MD 21853 were appointed Personal Representatives of the estate of GARRICK VINCENT THOMAS, SR., who died on MARCH 06, 2024 without a Will and will serve without Court supervision.
Date of first publication: NOVEMBER 08, 2024 Names of newspapers: Daily Washington Law Reporter AFRO American Newspapers
LISA SMITH SANDERS ESQ. 14452 OLD MILL ROAD, SUITE 101 UPPER MARLBORO, MD 20772 Signature of Petitioner/Attorney
Register of Wills
Clerk of the Probate Division 11/08, 11/15/24
SUPERIOR COURT OF THE DISTRICT OF COLUMBIA PROBATE DIVISION ADMINISTRATION NO. 2024ADM001268
JOSEPHINE F. ARMSTRONG Name of Decedent
MICHELLE BELL, ESQ. 1455 PENNSYLVANIA AVE., NW SUITE 400 WASHINGTON, DC 20004 Notice of Appointment, Notice to Creditors and Notice to Unknown Heirs
GERALDINE ARMSTRONG MARSHALL AND TIMO-
THY RAY ARMSTRONG, whose addresses are 7308 MALDEN LANE, DISTRICT HEIGHTS, MD 20747; 288 BOB G. HUGHES BLVD, HARVEST, AL 35749 were appointed Personal Representative of the estate of JOSEPHINE F. ARMSTRONG, who died on SEPTEMBER 01, 2024 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 MAY 08, 2025. 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 MAY 08, 2025 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: NOVEMBER 08, 2024
Name of newspaper and/or periodical: Daily Washington Law Reporter
AFRO American Newspapers
GERALDINE ARMSTRONG MARSHALL TIMOTHY RAY ARMSTRONG Personal Representative
TRUE TEST COPY REGISTER OF WILLS 11/08, 11/15, 11/22/24
SUPERIOR COURT OF THE DISTRICT OF COLUMBIA PROBATE DIVISION
ADMINISTRATION NO. 2024ADM001259 KATHER MAE WHITE AKA KATHER M. WHITE Name of Decedent DEE GREER 1350 LEEGATE ROAD, NW WASHINGTON, DC 20012 Notice of Appointment, Notice to Creditors
NOTICE TO CREDITORS ANNETTE LOUISE LANIER whose address is 9249 CARDINAL FOREST LANE UNIT 101, LORTON VA 22079 was appointecd representative of the estate of JEANETTE ANNIE MAE LANIER deceased, by the CIRCUIT Court for FAIRFAX County, State of VIRGINIA , on OCTOBER 03, 2024. Service of process may be made upon LUCY C. TAYLOR 867 OGLETHORPE STREET N.E., WASHINGTON DC 20011 whose designation as District of Columbia agent has been filed with the Register of Wills, D.C. The decedent owned the following District of Columbia real property: 5618 EASTERN AVENUE, N.E, WASHINGTON DC 20011. Claims against the decedent may be presented
SUPERIOR COURT OF THE DISTRICT OF COLUMBIA PROBATE DIVISION ADMINISTRATION NO. 2024ADM001274 LACOUNTIS B. COMPTON AKA LACOUNTIS LORRAINE COMPTON Name of Decedent DIANN DAWSON, ATTORNEY 2101 STEUBEN WAY SILVER SPRING, MD 20905 Notice of Appointment, Notice to Creditors and Notice to Unknown Heirs
RENAE LEE , whose address is 6126 ROSE BAY DRIVE, DISTRICT HEIGHTS, MD 20747 was appointed Personal Representative of the estate of LACOUNTIS B. COMPTON AKA LACOUNTIS LORRAINE COMPTON who died on AUGUST 15, 2024 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
NOTICES
BOARD OF LIQUOR LICENSE COMMISSIONERS FOR BALTIMORE CITY NOTICE – NOVEMBER 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 November 18, 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 November 28, 2024 at 10:30 AM in City Hall; 100 N. Holliday Street, Room215, Baltimore, Maryland 21202. Please visit llb. baltimorecity.gov under the link for & Hearing Schedules & for confirmation of the date, time, and place for all matters being heard by the Board.
1. CLASS “B” BEER, WINE & LIQUOR LICENSE
Applicant: Doppio Pasticceria, LLC T/a Doppio Pasticceria - Luke R. Ilardo
Petition: New restaurant license requesting outdoor table service, off-premises catering, and delivery of alcoholic beverages Premises: 300 W. 29 th Street 21211 (City Council District: 14th; State Legislative District: 43A)
Applicant: Triple B Broadway, LLC T/a Trade Name Pending - Bimal Mal-
la and Uttam B. Kunwar
Petition: New restaurant license requesting outdoor table service and delivery of alcoholic beverages Premises: 801 S. Broadway 21231 (City Council District: 1st; State Legislative District: 46th)
Applicant: HM Management Latrobe, LLC T/a Trade Name PendingPamela R. Hanner
Petition: Transfer of ownership (Amended) Premises: 909 N. Charles Street 21201 (City Council District: 12th; State Legislative District: 46th)
Applicant: Macon Opco, LLC T/a Trade Name Pending - Mangafoula Minadakis and Antonios Demetrios Minadakis
Petition: Transfer of ownership (Amended)
Premises: 422-26 S. Macon Street 21224
(City Council District: 1st; State Legislative District: 46th)
Applicant: 1203 Royal, LLC T/a Trade Name Pending - Cuneyt Ozturk
Petition: Transfer of ownership with continuation of live entertainment and outdoor table service, requesting off-premises catering and delivery of alcoholic beverages
Premises: 1203 W. Mt. Royal Avenue 21217
(City Council District: 11th; State Legislative District: 40th)
2. CLASS “BD7” BEER, WINE & LIQUOR LICENSE
Applicant: Wells Enterprises, Inc. T/a The Wine Source - JoAnne Huey, Jed Jenny, and Caitlin O’Connor
Petition: Transfer of ownership requesting delivery of alcoholic beverages Premises: 3601 Elm Avenue 21211
(City Council District: 14th; State Legislative District: 40th)
Applicant: So Baltimore, LLC T/a So Baltimore Sports Bar & Grill - Malcolm H. Delaney and Anthony Fitzgerald
Petition: Request to add live entertainment and delivery of alcoholic beverages Premises: 3734 Fleet Street 21224
(City Council District: 1st; State Legislative District: 46th)
Applicant: Good to Great, LLC T/a Trade Name Pending - Kieran Lahann
Petition: Transfer of ownership Premises: 1157 Haubert Street 21230 (City Council District: 11th; State Legislative District: 46th)
Applicant: Beba Industries, LLC T/a Tony’s Place - Zafiroyla Xipolitidis
Petition: Transfer of ownership of a Class “BD7” BWL license and Class “AE” Adult Entertainment license with continuation of live entertainment Premises: 4215 E. Monument Street 21205 (City Council District: 2nd; State Legislative District: 46th)
Applicant: Nam Bar, LLC T/a Trade Name Pending - John W. Renner, Jr.
Petition: Transfer of ownership with continuation of live entertainment Premises: 10-30 W. North Avenue 21201 (City Council District: 12th; State Legislative District: 40th)
3. CLASS “D” BEER & LIGHT WINE LICENSE
Applicant: Sole Proprietorship T/a Trade Name Pending - Jade Erin McArdle
HOUSING AUTHORITY OF BALTIMORE CITY REQUEST FOR PROPOSALS
FINANCIAL AUDIT SERVICES
RFP NUMBER: B-2024-24
The Housing Authority of Baltimore City (“HABC”) is seeking proposals from interested and qualified Certified Public Accountant firms to conduct an audit of its financial statements for the fiscal year ending December 31, 2024. HABC may also extend this contract for four subsequent fiscal years (2025, 2026, 2027, 2028). The audits must adhere to Generally Accepted Government Auditing Standards, including those set forth by the U.S. General Accounting Office, the Governmental Accounting Standards Board, the Single Audit Act Amendments, the American Institute of CPAs, and other relevant standards. Furthermore, the audits for FY 2024 or later years may need to comply with 2 CFR 200 Uniform Guidance issued by OMB, subject to HUD announcements.
PROPOSALS WILL BE DUE no later than 2:00 p.m. Eastern Time on Friday, December 20, 2024.
A non-mandatory pre-proposal conference will be held on Wednesday, December 4, 2024, at 1:00 p.m., which will be scheduled as a virtual meeting.
The entire RFP can be viewed and downloaded by visiting https://habc. bonfirehub.com/projects on or after Monday, November 25, 2024.
Questions regarding the RFP should be directed in writing to the address and individual indicated below and must include the reference: HABC RFP Number B-2024-24.
Housing Authority of Baltimore City Division of Fiscal Operations, Procurement Department 417 E. Fayette Street, Room 414 Baltimore, Maryland 21202
Attention: John Airey, Senior Vice President of Procurement Tel: 410-396-3261 john.airey@habc.org
CITY OF BALTIMORE
DEPARTMENT OF PUBLIC WORKS OFFICE OF ENGINEERING AND CONSTRUCTION NOTICE OF LETTING
Sealed Bids or Proposals, in duplicate addressed to the Board of Estimates of the Mayor and City Council of Baltimore and marked for SANITARY CONTRACT NO. 1007R- JONES FALLS SEWERSHED INFLOW AND FILTRATION REDUCTION- AREA B will be received at the Office of the Comptroller, Room 204 City Hall, Baltimore, Maryland until 11:00 A.M on January 8th, 2025. Positively no bids will be received after 11:00 A.M. Bids will be publicly opened by the Board of Estimates and can be watched live on CharmTV’s cable channel (Channel 25/1085HD); charmtvbaltimore.com/watch-live or listen in at (443) 984-1696 (ACCESS CODE: 0842939) from City Hall at Noon. The Contract Documents may be examined, without charge, at Contract Administration 4 South Frederick Street Baltimore, Maryland 21202 on the 3rd floor (410) 396-4041 as of November 22nd, 2024 and copies may be purchased for a non-refundable cost of 100.00. Conditions and requirements of the Bid are found in the bid package. All contractors bidding on this Contract must first be prequalified by the City of Baltimore Contractors Qualification Committee. Interested parties should call (410) 396-6883 or contact OBC at 4 S Frederick St., 4th Floor, Baltimore, MD 21202. If a bid is submitted by a joint venture (“JV”), then in that event, the document that established the JV shall be submitted with the bid for verification purposes. The Prequalification Category required for bidding on this project is B02552: Sewer Construction. Cost Qualification Range for this work shall be $5,000,000.01 to $10,000,000.00. For further inquiries about purchasing bid documents, please contact the assigned Contract Administrator LWalston@baltimorecity. gov and dpwbidopportunities@baltimorecity.gov
A “Pre-Bidding Information” session will be conducted via Microsoft Teams. Vendor can call 332-249-0605 PASSCODE: 709405444# on December 4th, 2024 at 10:00 AM
Principal items of work for this contract include, but are not limited to: •Cured-in-place pipe (CIPP) lining of sanitary sewers; •Excavate and replace segments of sanitary sewers via point repairs; •Manhole repair and rehabilitation work;
•Sewer house connection (SHC) repair and rehabilitation work; •New manhole and cleanout installation work;
This project is funded by SRF program.
The MBE goal is 22% The WBE goal is 16%
APPROVED: APPROVED:
Clerk, Board of Estimates Khalil Zaied Director Department of Public Works
ADVERTISEMENT FOR PROPOSALS
TOWN OF HAMPSTEAD HAMPSTEAD, MARYLAND
HAMPSTEAD PFAS TREATMENT/CENTRALIZATION PROJECT
RAW WATER MAIN CONSTRUCTION SERVICES
The Town of Hampstead is seeking bids for the construction of water mains associated with the Town of Hampstead PFAS Treatment and Centralization Project (“Project”).
The Project is being funded, in part, by grants issued by the Maryland Department of the Environment State Revolving Loan Fund and the United States Environmental Protection Agency Emerging Contaminants in Small or Disadvantaged Communities Grant Program. Qualified minority business enterprises (MBE’s) and women’s business enterprises (WBE’s) are especially encouraged to participate.
To request an official copy of this Request for Proposals for Raw Water Main Construction Services (RFP NO.TOH-WMC-FY25-03), please contact:
Judy Rang Town of Hampstead 410-239-7408 jrang@hampsteadmd.gov
MARTHA E. CROSSLAND Name of Decedent
VICKEY A. WRIGHT-SMITH 1629 K STREET, NW #300 WASHINGTON, DC 20006 Notice of Appointment, Notice to Creditors and Notice to Unknown Heirs MILBERT A. CROSSLAND,II , whose address is 1147
46TH STREET, SE, WASHINGTON, DC 20019 was appointed Personal Representative of the estate of MARTHA E. CROSSLAND who died on APRIL 30, 2024 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 MAY 15, 2025. 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 MAY 15, 2025 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: NOVEMBER 15, 2024 Name of newspaper and/or periodical: Daily Washington Law Reporter AFRO American Newspapers
MILBERT A. CROSSLAND,II Personal Representative TRUE TEST COPY REGISTER OF WILLS 11/15, 11/22,11/29/24
SUPERIOR COURT OF THE DISTRICT OF COLUMBIA PROBATE DIVISION ADMINISTRATION NO. 2024ADM001040 MARY INGALLS WOODELL Name of Decedent CAROL S. BLUMENTHAL 7325 GEORGIA AVE. NW WASHINGTON, DC 20012 Notice of Appointment, Notice to Creditors and Notice to Unknown Heirs
SARA T. HOKE, whose address is 8201 POTTS CREEK RD. COVINGTON, VA. 24426 was appointed
Personal Representative of the estate of MARY INGALLS WOODELL who died on JUNE 07, 2024 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 MAY 15, 2025. 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 MAY 15, 2025 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: NOVEMBER 15, 2024 Name of newspaper and/or periodical: Daily Washington Law Reporter AFRO American Newspapers
SARA T. HOKE Personal Representative TRUE TEST COPY REGISTER OF WILLS 11/15, 11/22,11/29/24
SUPERIOR COURT OF THE DISTRICT OF COLUMBIA PROBATE DIVISION ADMINISTRATION NO. 2024ADM001232 WAYNE ELLIS DAVID Name of Decedent Notice of Appointment, Notice to Creditors and Notice to Unknown Heirs
TRACEY R LISIER, whose address is 12030 LUSBYS LANE BRANDYWINE, MD 20613 was appointed Personal Representative of the estate of WAYNE ELLIS
DAVID who died on AUGUST 28, 2024 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 MAY 15, 2025. 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 MAY 15, 2025 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: NOVEMBER 15, 2024 Name of newspaper and/or periodical: Daily Washington Law Reporter AFRO American Newspapers
TRACEY R LISIER Personal Representative
11/22,11/29/24
SUPERIOR COURT OF THE DISTRICT OF COLUMBIA PROBATE DIVISION ADMINISTRATION NO. 2024ADM001300 ANNIE M. HOLMAN AKA ANNIE MAE HOLMAN Name of Decedent Notice of Appointment, Notice to Creditors and Notice to Unknown Heirs SHIRLIE LARUTH TAYLOR, whose address is 4410 14TH ST. NW WASHINGTON, DC 20011 was appointed Personal Representative of the estate of ANNIE HOLMAN AKA ANNIE MAE HOLMAN who died onJANUARY 24, 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 MAY 22, 2025. 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 MAY 22, 2025 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: NOVEMBER 22, 2024 Name of newspaper and/or periodical: Daily Washington Law Reporter AFRO American Newspapers
SHIRLIE LARUTH TAYLOR Personal Representative TRUE TEST COPY REGISTER OF WILLS 11/22, 11/29, 12/06/24
SUPERIOR COURT OF THE DISTRICT OF COLUMBIA PROBATE DIVISION 2024ADM001383 Estate of ANNIE DOLORES PARKER Deceased NOTICE OF STANDARD PROBATE (For estates of decedents dying on or after July 1, 1995)
Notice is hereby given that a petition has been filed in this Court by SENORA PARKER ATAKULU for standard probate, including the appointment of one or more personal representatives. Unless a responsive pleading in the form of a complaint or an objection in accordance with Superior Court Probate Division Rule 407 is filed in this Court within 30 days from the date of first publication of this notice, the Court may take the action hereinafter set forth.
* in the absence of a will or proof satisfactory to the court of due execution, enter an order determining that the decedent died intestate
* appoint an unsupervised personal representative
Date of first publication: NOVEMBER 22, 2024 Names of newspapers: Daily Washington Law Reporter AFRO American Newspapers
JAMES K. DAVIS ESQ. 10905 FORT WASHINGTON ROAD SUITE 201 FORT WASHINGTON, MD 20744
Signature of Petitioner/Attorney
Register of Wills Clerk of the Probate Division 11/22, 11/29/24
SUPERIOR COURT OF THE DISTRICT OF COLUMBIA PROBATE DIVISION ADMINISTRATION NO. 2024ADM001306 ELLA MAE BREWER Name of Decedent
KAREN M. SELBY, ESQ 3261 OLD WASHINGTON RD. SUITE 2020 WALDORF, MD 20602 Notice of Appointment, Notice to Creditors and Notice to Unknown Heirs
LUCILLE M. BREWER, whose address is 643 KENYON ST. NW, WASHINGTON, DC 20010 was appointed Personal Representative of the estate of ELLA MAE BREWER who died on FEBRUARY 08, 2024 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 MAY 22, 2025. 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 MAY 22, 2025 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: NOVEMBER 22, 2024 Name of newspaper and/or periodical: Daily Washington Law Reporter AFRO American Newspapers
LUCCILLE M. BREWER Personal Representative
TRUE TEST COPY REGISTER OF WILLS
Sealed
The AFRO honors military men and women at annual Veterans Day luncheon
1948, Durham served in Vietnam from 1968 to 1969. He was one of multiple awardees to receive recognition at the AFRO’s 2024 Veterans Day luncheon.
Deyane Moses is currently the director of programs and partnerships for Afro Charities. However, before she began dedicating her time to the AFRO Archives, she served for seven years in the U.S. Army. Moses was one of two surprise honorees at the AFRO’s 2024 Veterans Day luncheon, in addition to the three awardees publicized ahead of the event.
By Alexis Taylor AFRO Managing Editor
The AFRO recognized every branch of the Armed Forces on Nov. 14 at the 2024 Veterans Day Luncheon. The event took place inside of the Reginald F. Lewis Museum in Baltimore, and served as a salute to service members of the U.S. Air Force; U.S. Army; U.S. Coast Guard; U.S. Marine Corps; U.S. Navy and the Space Force.
Three honorees, Carroll A. “Junebug” Durham, Arnold H. Sampson Jr. and Perlisa D. Wilson, were honored along with former Maryland State Delegate Clarence “Tiger” Davis and the AFRO’s own Deyane Moses, who serves as director of programs and partnerships for Afro Charities.
Col. (Ret.) Edna W. Cummings serves as the keynote speaker for the luncheon, which highlighted the more than 850 women of the 6888th Central Postal Directory Battalion.
AFRO Photos / James Fields
Carroll A. “Junebug” Durham is the recipient of more than a dozen awards for his bravery in combat. Born in
Shown here, Kai Wilson; Kevin Peck, AFRO VP of marketing and technology; Command Sergeant Major (Ret.) Perlisa D. Wilson and Dr. Frances “Toni” Draper, publisher of the AFRO American Newspapers.
Arnold Sampson lll (left) stands with AFRO Publisher Dr. Frances “Toni” Draper as she presents an award to AFRO Honoree Arnold H. Sampson Jr., with help from Kevin Peck, the AFRO’s director of marketing and technology (right).
Al Michael (left) and David E. Green
Col. (Ret.) Edna W. Cummings delivers a keynote speech, highlighting the work of the 6888th Central Postal Directory Battalion.
Lt. Col. Ray Ragan, a member of the U.S. Army Reserve, also serves as CEO for Security Plus Credit Union.
George Forrest (left) and Retired Colonel John Astle, former Maryland State Senator (D- Md.District 30), enjoy the event.
Terri Freeman, president of the Reginald F. Lewis Museum, welcomes guests to the event.
K.T. Tyler serves as chairperson for the Maryland Veterans Commission Serving Maryland Veterans.
Former Maryland State Delegate Clarence “Tiger” Davis receives recognition for his time in the U.S. Air Force and in the community. Davis arrived expecting to highlight the work of others, only to learn that he was one of two surprise honorees to receive awards that were undisclosed ahead of the ceremony
BALTIMORE-AREA
Community control–not just public health–is essential in addressing overdose in Baltimore
By Lawrence Grandpre
Now that Baltimore has won its lawsuit against opioid distributors, it is important to understand the narratives around how Baltimore got here in order to maximize this opportunity to address addiction and overdose.
Last year, when a story hit The New York Times stating Baltimore has the highest fatal overdose rate in the country, a narrative spread that Baltimore City lawmakers, too distracted by focusing on murder rates, were to blame, as they failed to listen to experts and do best practices in harm reduction.
These stories build upon long-standing narratives in
a
a
Family members call for change after latest DPW death
Carroll, sister-in-law of Timothy
Department of Public
Nov. 8 when he became
from
Savoy and Carroll.
By Ariyana Griffin AFRO Staff Writer agriffin@afro.com
Community and family members came together in front of Baltimore’s City Hall on Nov. 15 to speak on behalf of four Baltimore Department of Public Works (DPW) employees who have died on duty since 2020: Donald Savoy, Trina Cunningham, Ronald Silver II and now, Timothy Cartwell. Advocates say more needs to be done to protect DPW workers.
Cartwell, the most recent tragedy, died on Friday, Nov. 8, after being crushed in a Baltimore City alleyway. He was transported to the University of Maryland Shock Trauma Center, where he succumbed to his fatal injuries.
Family members of Cartwell, Savoy and Silver stood united as they comforted each other due to their unfortunate shared experience.
Shantae Carroll, Timothy Cartwell’s sister-in-law, spoke on behalf of the
family and shared that he was so much more than his title within the DPW.
“My brother-in-law was not just ‘a trash man.’ My brother-in-law was a man of courage, of good deeds, of
“My brother-inlaw was not just ‘a trash man.’ My brother-in-law was a man of courage, of good deeds, of love, of support.”
love, of support,” said Carroll. “He was kind, gentle, and a man that stood for what was right.”
She asked that everyone “respect
these men and women that do a job every single day for us– the people of Baltimore– the jobs that no one really wants to do.”
“I think personally, they are the ones that deserve a high amount of pay - I think they are the ones who deserve to be lifted up and to be respected at the highest level of respect that can be given because they put their lives on the line,” said Carroll.
She urged all employees, with positions high and low, at the Baltimore Department of Public Works to do the right thing and push for change to prevent the loss of another life.
“Do what’s right. Fix what needs to be fixed. Don’t wait another second, don’t wait another minute, don’t wait another hour,” said Carroll. “ We don’t know the day or the hour that something can happen, tragedy can come, and this will happen again.”
Thiru Vignarajah, who is providing counsel for the Savoy and Silver
Continued on D2
Mayor Scott swears in members of Baltimore’s newly formed Community Reinvestment and Reparations Commission
By Tashi McQueen AFRO
Mayor Brandon M. Scott (D) officially swore in
by Sadiq
of
presi-
Community at America’s Promise Alliance; Dr. Inte’a DeShields, assistant professor of English and language arts at
Morgan State University; Andre Turner, senior program trainer at the University of Maryland Baltimore School of Social Work; Anthony Francis, community
advocate and outreach director at Baltimore’s Coalition for Positive Change; Agzja Carey, executive director of Crayons and Culture; Eric Jackson, co-founder and servant director at Black Yield Institute; Dr. Raymond Winbush, research professor and the director of the Institute for Urban Research; Dr. Khalilah M. Harris, executive vice president of Program Strategy at the Center for Policing Equity and Rev. Dr. Robert Turner, senior pastor at Empowerment Temple African Methodist
on D2
By Catherine Pugh Special to the AFRO
Former Baltimore County Councilman Kenneth N. Oliver died on Nov. 11, leaving behind a rich legacy as a changemaker and community leader.
Oliver was born in Montgomery, Ala. in 1945, but was educated in the Baltimore City Public School System, where he lived with his family until moving to Baltimore County.
At 57 years old, Oliver became the first African American to be elected to the Baltimore County Council.
“He was a delight to work with on so many issues,” said former State Senator Shirley NathanPulliam. “Many of the businesses on Liberty Road would not be there had it not been for Councilman Ken Oliver. He was a bridge builder between the city and county because he lived in both places.”
Former Mayor and President of the Baltimore City Council Jack Young remembers Councilman Oliver as a friend.
“We attended many events together to discuss how to bring business to our respective communities. He is responsible for the community center that was built for senior and youth activities in Randallstown,” Young told the AFRO
Courtesy Photo Lawrence Grandpre is director of research for Leaders of
Beautiful Struggle,
Baltimorebased think tank.
AFRO Photo/ Ariyana Griffin
Shantae
Cartwell, demands justice and accountability within the
Works
employees of all ranks. Cartwell was a DPW worker who died while on duty
pinned between a work truck and a pole. Shown here, Thiru Vignarajah (left), Sherrill
AFRO Archives Friends, family and members of the Baltimore community are mourning the death of former Baltimore County Councilman Kenneth N. Oliver, who died Nov. 11.
Ken Oliver, legendary Baltimore County councilman, dies
Photo courtesy of the Office of the Mayor Baltimore City/J.J. McQueen Sen. Antonio Hayes (D-Md.-40) (left), stands with Sadiq Ali, Dr. Inte’a DeShields, Andre Turner, Anthony Francis, Agzja Carey, Eric Jackson, Mayor Brandon M. Scott (D), Dr. Raymond Winbush, Dr. Khalilah M. Harris and Rev. Dr. Robert Turner at the swearing in ceremony of the Community Reinvestment and Reparations Commission on Nov. 13. All shown here are commissioners for the new group, with the exception of Hayes and Scott.
DPW death
Continued from D1
families, spoke about the importance of things changing and the reality that it is not happening fast enough.
“We have here the wife of Mr. Savoy, the family of Timothy Cartwell, the mother and family of Ronald Silver II,” said Vignarajah. “As I saw them bury their heads in one another’s shoulders, I thought, ‘does this make it better, or does it make it worse?...That they are not alone.”
Dr. Marvin L. ‘Doc’ Cheatham Sr., CEO and president of the Matthew A. Henson Neighborhood Association ( MAHNA) and the Matthew Henson Community Development Corporation (MHCDC), stated that holding a place for a gathering was vital and expressed that the community and family members need answers.
“None of us knows exactly what happened except for those that were there,” said Dr. Cheatham. “That’s one of the things that has to be done - we have to find out what exactly happened.”
Community members expressed their gratitude for sanitation workers and the hard work that they do every day to help serve their community. They stressed that they deserve better work environments with safer protocols. Linda Batts, former DPW employee and community activist, shared that change is long overdue.
“Shortly after the loss of Mr. Silver, DPW’s news director committed to critically examining DPW’s policies and practices to ensure that the workplace is safe - as they dedicate
Reparations Commission
Continued from D1
Episcopal Church.
Scott spoke with the AFRO about how the new entity came to be.
“When the Maryland General Assembly legalized adult recreational cannabis use, they also mandated that a percentage of adult-use cannabis tax revenues be set aside and allocated to the State Community Reinvestment and Repair Fund,” said Scott. “From there, funding is provided to each jurisdiction in the state to support community-based initiatives that benefit low-income communities and communities that have been disproportionately impacted by the enforcement of the cannabis prohibition.”
“Our Community Reinvestment and Reparations Commission is tasked with two things: determining for which purposes these funds can be used, and directing the expenditure of funding to community-based organizations for services and programs intended to benefit our hardest hit communities in accordance with state law,” said Scott.
Adult-use cannabis was legalized on July 1, 2023. Baltimore joins other parts of the state, such as Baltimore County, in creating a commission to help reinvest the funds made from sales of the popular plant.
“We’re trying to make sure that we help prevent the cycle of crime,” said Pastor Robert Turner of Empowerment Temple African Methodist Episcopal Church, a new member of the commission. “We always believe that people want to do right and want to do good. It’s our role as a society, and now as a commission, to try and help make sure we present to them as many options to do good as possible.”
The swearing-in cer-
emony was well-attended by friends, family and state and local leaders.
“This is an opportunity to really demonstrate what a reparations policy will look like in practice,” said Davon Love, the director of public policy for Leaders of a Beautiful Struggle, about the new commission.
“I think a lot of times people have talked about it theoretically, this opportunity to re-
“A quick look at the commission members will give you an idea that we are committed to making sure that the Black residents of Baltimore City, and our communities, receive what is due to them.”
ally show what it could look like.”
Love said he believes reparations for slavery could also happen in Baltimore City.
“As far as I’m concerned, this is a start in that direction,” said Love.
Inte’a DeShields, a member of the commission, reflected on how she felt at the ceremony and her new role.
“This is my first time ever going through this experience,” said DeSheilds. “I think the swearing-in adds a level of weight and responsibility to the role of
themselves to serving the city of Baltimore,” said Batts.
“Yet, less than three short months following that statement, another DPW employee, Timothy Cardwell, dies in the line of duty. Leaving his family to grieve and seek answers from a city that has had three previous opportunities to correct unsafe practices. Let’s be clear, and let’s not be divided- we appear to be dealing with a pattern of neglect and failure by leaders and supervisors charged with carrying out their duties.”
According to a statement released by DPW, “The circumstances surrounding Mr. Cartwell’s injuries are under investigation by the Baltimore Police Department.”
a member of the community reinvestment and reparations committee.”
DeSheilds responded to potential concerns about whether Black Baltimoreans who have been impacted by the excessive enforcement of cannabis will see the investments.
“A quick look at the commission members will give you an idea that we are committed to making sure that the Black residents of Baltimore City, and our communities, receive what is due to them,” said DeShields. “Reparations, in this case, are intended to make sure that our people receive some benefit from the disenfranchisement and the systemic policies of the past that of course still affect our people.”
Khalilah Harris, a member of the commission, shared her perspective on the momentous time before Baltimore.
“I am super excited. This is historic,” said the 46-year-old. “This is a first that’s important to make sure that we are partners with our neighbors in the city to collaborate for building a stronger Baltimore. We want to be able to unlock the genius that we know lives in neighborhoods that were depressed and oppressed based on over policing and damaging enforcement of a prohibition on cannabis.”
Harris said partnering with other jurisdictions in the state is a top agenda item for the commission as they get to work. “There may be opportunities for us to bring dollars together so that we can have even greater impact across the state.”
“We also want to tap into the national reparations movement,” said Harris. “Baltimore can truly be a North Star for other com-
Oliver
Continued from D1
In a social media post, County Councilman Julian Jones, paid honor to his predecessor. “During his 12 years in office and his time on the planning board, he made a lasting impact on our
cil, where he served District 4 from 2002 until 2014, Oliver was a well-known banker. He was known as an advocate for growing and expanding African-American businesses.
munities on how we do reparations, not only for the fake war on drugs, but for historic challenges that the community has faced leading up to that.”
Scott encouraged other community members to step forward and join a commission.
“If you love Baltimore, you care about Baltimore, there is a commission for you,” said Scott. “Simply visit our website, baltimorecity.gov, and if you see a commission that you’re interested in, please make sure that you apply.”
Overdose
Continued from D1
“Many of the businesses on Liberty Road would not be there had it not been for Councilman Ken Oliver. He was a bridge builder between the city and county because he lived in both places.”
community,” said Jones.
Oliver was a graduate of University of Baltimore and received a master’s degree in business administration from Morgan State University.
News of Oliver’s death was posted on social media by Baltimore County Councilman Julian Jones, who succeeded him in office.
Before becoming the first African American elected to the Baltimore County Coun-
the harm reduction space, that Black elected officials, and by proxy the Black community, are too conservative and blind to the evidence to be trusted with decision-making power over responses to overdoses. This narrative must be combated to address overdoses and maximize the unique opportunity that the city’s recent opioid settlements present.
The rise of overdose deaths has little to do with perceived conservatives or lack of focus in the Black community. The rise of fentanyl, which is far more potent than heroin, meant that traditional public health responses like naloxone were not enough to address overdose. Indeed, a recent study showed the best practices of public healthcentered harm reduction failed to show a significant decrease in fatal overdoses.
In reality, Baltimore’s biggest risk in addressing fatal overdoses is listening exclusively to expertise from institutions like Johns Hopkins and relying too heavily on elite decision-makers at the cost of grassroots knowledge.
In a recent press conference, Baltimore City Mayor Brandon M. Scott unveiled his plans on how to spend the hundreds of millions of dollars the city will receive in opioid settlement payments. While there is a community oversight board, the structures of elite decision-making place the community at a disadvantage when a multibillion-dollar institution like Hopkins gives knowledge on highly scientific issues like addiction. This means there is a power imbalance that requires we not only rely on the individuals on the advisory board with lived experience to anchor the communities' engagement with this process. The city needs to prioritize democratic control over resources and strengthen community involvement to ensure that the funds are directed towards what the community views as addressing the harm caused by the opioid epidemic.
Grassroots responses from the Black community to addiction focus on spiritual and political interventions that challenge the systems of anti-Blackness, which push some in our community to seek escape from an oppressive reality through substance use. Organizations like Self Determined Recover use the lessons of African-centered theorists, combined with spoken word therapy, to address the injected oppression which has driven opioid use in Baltimore. Activists in the 70s at Lincoln Detox in New York used
“Ken was instrumental in helping fund my business where banks couldn’t. He worked tirelessly, advocating for minority and women enterprises,” said Anthony Mosby.
Oliver’s career in banking began at Equitable Trust in Baltimore. He continued his banking career becoming a vice president of the Harbor Bank of Maryland and, later, a senior vice president of the Development Credit Fund, one of the few entities providing funding for minority businesses at that time, according to Paul Taylor, director of the Mayor’s Office of Small Minority and Women-Owned Business. Oliver also worked as a financial specialist in the Maryland Department Business and Economic Development and taught at Coppin State University. Oliver is survived by his wife, three daughters and four grandchildren.
acupuncture as part of a holistic addiction treatment system. They engaged in political education and addressed addiction as righteous indignation around oppression turned inward against the individual, seeing political engagement as part of the solution to addiction. Despite the evidence being mixed, recent evidence adds support for the effectiveness of acupuncture in treating drug dependency. However, in a webinar with folks who worked at Lincoln Detox, participants said that political education was the most effective part of their addiction treatment. These are precisely the sort of treatments denigrated as not being “evidence-based” in the traditional public health system.
Some of the greatest successes attributed to harm reduction have been an extension of grassroots spiritual work of community health workers on the ground. In Harlem, there is an overdose prevention site called On Point, where individuals who use street drugs can get them tested and use them in a supervised and safe manner. They have never had a fatal overdose. However, what is less discussed is the critical role addiction treatment and acupuncturists directly tied to the legacy of Lincoln Detox have been to this organization. Despite this dual approach, it is the public health and overdose prevention work that is often held up as the solution to overdose.
In America, given political opposition, we’ve struggled to open two overdose prevention centers. If we take On Point NYC’s number and assume each site sees 200 users a day, with 25,000 potential clients in Baltimore, it would take over 100 overdose prevention centers to oversee every dose of street drugs. It is not anti-harm reduction to say Overdose Prevention Sites alone are unlikely to address the overdose epidemic. From the Hopkins police force to gentrification, Black Baltimoreans have seen Hopkins fail abysmally at community engagement and empowerment. The city health department has given extreme deference to Hopkins, meaning the rise in overdoses has happened on their watch. Given Hopkins' history, there is concern that including folks with lived experience with addiction risks doing more to create an illusion of legitimacy than to empower community. The community will not accept only a seat at a table Hopkins has built. We are demanding the resources and space to design for ourselves solutions to the overdose epidemic.
Maryland schools have new rules to follow for active shooter drills
By Marissa Yelenik Capital News Service
Active shooter drills in Maryland schools will be different next school year under a new set of state guidelines meant to limit the impact those drills have on the mental health of students.
The new guidelines are designed to prohibit trauma-inducing elements like imitation of gunfire or explosions. They also require school systems to notify parents in advance when students will be practicing what to do in the event of an active shooter in their buildings.
The new guidelines were released by the Maryland Center for School Safety this fall, ordered by a new state law requiring them to draft new parameters and create a new process for collecting and analyzing data on their effectiveness. The center will also look into the psychological impact the shooter drills have on staff, parents and students.
Parts of the guidelines — including bans on gunfire and the requirement to notify parents — have already gone into effect because they are explicit in state law. The full set of guidelines will be put into effect at the beginning of the academic year in 2025.
“The mental health crisis that we see in our young people is undeniable,” said Del. Jared Solomon, who sponsored the measure in the Maryland House of Delegates earlier this year. “As we normalize having to deal with school shootings, we are creating more anxiety and more issues among young people.”
While schools have long practiced safety drills, active shooter drills are relatively new, following the 1999 shooting at Columbine High School, according to the guidelines.
School systems have made an effort to keep students safe by implementing active shooter drills, however, concerns have been raised across the country about the impact these drills have on student’s mental health. This led to the April passage of the Maryland bill, as well as an executive order signed by President Joe Biden to increase federal guidance on the subject.
Maryland’s new guidelines, released in October, call for unified terminology
Students in Maryland are used to preparing for emergency events on campus during the school day, however active shooter drills will look different next year. In 2025, the Maryland Center for School Safety will ensure that parents and students are aware of the drills before they take place and imitation gunfire or explosions will be prohibited.
between districts to discourage miscommunication between the school system and the relevant public. They intend to increase communication between staff and students to create an open dialogue where everyone
ter, and should be adjusted to fit the age group.
“These are going to be part of a young person’s life for the foreseeable future, but that doesn’t mean that you can’t do them
“The mental health crisis that we see in our young people is undeniable. As we normalize having to deal with school shootings, we are creating more anxiety and more issues among young people.
feels comfortable raising concerns, as well as creating a diverse planning team who will work on planning the drills and doing a postanalysis of how it went and any shortcomings it faced.
The guidelines emphasize that active shooter drills are not a one-size-fits-all mat-
in a way that is both trauma informed and age appropriate,” said Solomon. “It’s really important that the way school systems do these types of events reflects a care and age appropriateness of the grades that are being impacted.”
The guidelines also recommend that a
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mechanism be established to pause or stop the drill when necessary, for schools to notify parents before and after all drills to increase trust and communication and to allow students and staff who feel uncomfortable to opt-out from the drills.
The Maryland General Assembly sponsors of the bill, Solomon and Sen. Cheryl Kagan, felt that the impact guns have on today’s children needs to be mitigated as much as possible, and worked to balance a focus on their safety while prioritizing their mental health.
“The law that Del. Solomon and I sponsored and passed tried to walk the fine line of thoughtful preparation that isn’t traumatic,” Kagan said. “And we also had to consider parents and community members who are understandably alarmed and concerned when they see the impact of these drills … Our concern was that [the drills] were not being strategic in how they were handled, and were actually causing trauma for those involved.”
One active shooter drill that occurred in Solomon’s district served as a driving force for his involvement.
“Families were literally getting texts from their kids saying ‘I don’t know if I’ll ever see you again’ and it was a drill. They didn’t know,” said Solomon. “There was no requirement prior to this for a school or a school system to notify families before or after.”
Additional drivers for the bill included shared experiences from other parents Solomon spoke to, he said. Many shared frustrations at the lack of foresight they had into when the drills would be taking place and what would happen during them, preventing them from having appropriate conversations with their children to prepare them.
Starting in January, schools will distribute a new survey made by the National Center for School Mental Health to gather feedback from staff, parents and students on how effective the drills are, and the mental impact they have on all involved.
“The goal is not to create fear but to instill confidence and preparedness,” the Maryland Center for School Safety said in their guidelines. “By working together as a community, schools can foster safe and supportive learning environments.”
Open Enrollment is Here: Wellpoint Offers New Affordable Options in Maryland
By Robert Ruiz-Moss, for Wellpoint
We all want good health, both for ourselves and for our families. That’s why we center many of our choices around improving our health and well-being. Now that the Affordable Care Act (ACA) Marketplace open enrollment period has begun, it’s time to start exploring the best plan for you and your family. ACA Marketplace health plans are specifically for those who do not have access to an employer-sponsored health plan and do not qualify for Medicaid or Medicare.
To ensure you have health coverage beginning in 2025, it’s important to start focusing on finding a plan that meets your needs and your budget. Maryland’s official health insurance marketplace, Maryland Health Connection, is where you will enroll when you’re ready. Selecting a health plan can feel like a daunting task, but Wellpoint can help you choose the right one for you.
New Wellpoint health plan options in Maryland
Wellpoint offers affordable plans that provide access to quality doctors and hospitals to meet the diverse needs of Maryland residents. Wellpoint (formerly Amerigroup) has been serving Marylanders for more than 25 years as a leading coordinator of Medicaid managed healthcare benefits. Wellpoint cares for the whole health of nearly three million Americans and we’re part of the Elevance Health family of companies serving nearly 46 million people nationwide.
Benefits are more affordable than you may think Wellpoint’s health plans offer different options for care, and your premium and deductible will depend on the plan you choose. Wellpoint’s website outlines
the available options based on coverage needs and pricing for individual and family plans. It’s important to remember health plans cover preventive health care—such as mammograms, colonoscopies, regular check-ups and other important services— at no cost to consumers. Chronic health conditions that negatively impact quality of life and significantly increase healthcare costs can often be prevented or managed through these early detection screenings.
You may also be eligible to receive additional financial help through ACA subsidies, which can help lower or eliminate monthly premiums and decrease out-of-pocket costs. In fact, nine out of 10 people nationwide can save on the cost of health coverage through these subsidies.
The high cost of no benefits
Forgoing healthcare coverage might seem like a cost-effective alternative; however, out-of-pocket costs and unexpected hospitalizations add up quickly. Uninsured individuals often face unaffordable medical bills when they do seek care, which can lead to medical debt and other forms of financial instability. According to the Kaiser Family Foundation, 62% of uninsured adults report having medical debt. Uninsured
adults are more likely to face negative consequences due to health care debt, such as using their savings, having difficulty paying other living expenses, or needing to borrow money.
Nearly 1 In 12 U.S. adults owe medical debt, and almost 67% of all bankruptcies in America are tied to medical issues, whether due to the high costs of medical bills or the loss of income after taking time off from work. We understand inflation is still challenging for many household budgets, but securing healthcare coverage now may really help you save money in the long run.
Next steps
Wellpoint offers decades of experience and knowledgeable support to help people create a path to better health and wellness. Wellpoint can be a resource to help you through this process, regardless of what health plan you eventually choose Visit our website to easily compare the available plans as you determine what will best work for you and your budget. Then visit Maryland Health Connection to enroll. Be sure to enroll by December 31 for coverage to begin January 1 or enroll by January 15 for coverage to begin February 1.
About the Author: Robert Ruiz-Moss currently serves as the Vice President of Individual Business for the Elevance Health family of companies, which includes Wellpoint. Robert has worked in numerous areas of the healthcare industry and has been instrumental in developing Elevance Health’s Individual
Capital News Service / Christine Zhu
Are you getting the most from your Medicare plan?
Medicare plans change every year, so can your health. Visit Medicare.gov to see all your options side by side and compare coverage, costs, and quality ratings.
Compare your options now at Medicare.gov, or call
New in 2025, all Medicare plans will include a $2,000 cap on what you pay out of pocket for covered prescription drugs. The cap only applies to drugs that are covered by your plan, so it’s more important than ever to review your plan options to make sure your drugs are covered.
Get help with drug costs.
If you are struggling with your prescription drug costs, Extra Help is a Medicare program that can help pay for your drug coverage (Part D) premiums, deductibles, and other out-of-pocket costs. If you make less than $23,000 a year, it’s worth it to apply. Visit ssa.gov/extrahelp to complete an application.