Washington Afro American Newspaper July 11 2015 by AFRO News

Volume Volume 123 123 No. No. 49 20–22

July 11, 2015 - July 11, 2015, The Afro-American A1 $1.00

www.afro.com

$1.00

JULY 11, 2015 - JULY 17, 2015

Baltimore

Washington

Chicago’s Violent Weekend

• Batts Fired Over

• U.S., Cuba Relations

• What Can Baltimore

• Mayor’s Allies Respond

Good for D.C. B1

Spike in Violence D1 Learn From Ferguson? D1

to Criticism B1

AP Photo

Amari Brown, 7, was celebrating the Fourth of July with his family when he became a victim of gun violence. Chicago area mourners constructed a memorial in the boy’s honor. A3

Incarcerated Women, Girls Suffer Abuse and Neglect in Criminal Justice System

• Sheila Dixon Talks to The AFRO D1

• Morgan State

University Awarded $500,000 Grant D1

By Shantella Y. Sherman Special to the AFRO ssherman@afro.com

Join the more than 468,000 Facebook fans who follow the AFRO, the Black newspaper with the largest digital reach in the country.

Listen to “First Edition”

afro.com

Your History • Your Community • Your News

Join Host Sean Yoes Monday-Friday 5-7 p.m. on 88.9 WEAA FM, the Voice of the Community.

47105 21847

Courtesy photo

U.S. Rep. Karen Bass leads a panel on females formerly incarcerated to help legislators understand how best to provide intervention services. that the best policy is done when the people who are most immediately impacted

are involved in telling the policymakers what the policy should be,” Bass

Lupus Disproportionately Affects Black Women

$32 Billion in Funding Could Raise Awareness By Shantella Y. Sherman Special to the AFRO ssherman@afro.com

U.S. Rep. Karen Bass (D-Calif.) recently held a panel of juvenile court judges and young women to discuss how Congress should address the specific needs of women and girls in the judicial system. The panel, on June 26, focused on issues impacting women and young girls in prison, including abuse and neglect during incarceration. The panel also addressed the disproportionate number of female prisoners formerly in the foster care system and who have suffered childhood physical abuse, sexual molestation, and abandonment. “Fundamentally, I believe

Join the AFRO on Twitter and Facebook

Lupus, or systemic lupus erythematosus, is a chronic and often debilitating autoimmune disease that impacts more than 1.5 million Americans. Characterized by intense fatigue, exhaustion, joint pain, and memory problems, lupus is three times more common among the Black female populations than any other group. And, while lupus affects women in their childbearing years, the onset of lupus in Black women is earlier and more likely to develop into severe organ problems. Among health officials lupus has been termed everything from “unpredictable,” to “misunderstood,” and is difficult to diagnose.

Additionally, lupus remains a challenge to treat, according to the Lupus Foundation of America, existing outside of the national health dialogue with few awareness efforts in place. The exact cause of lupus is not known, though researchers believe that there are hereditary genetic markers that keep the immune system from functioning properly. Additionally, a number of factors can trigger lupus attacks, including viral infections, such as mononucleosis. No two cases of lupus are alike. Some people develop kidney problems, for example, while others get premature heart disease, and others suffer from strokes or develop lung inflammation. In recent weeks, lupus activists from around the country visited Capitol Hill, where they successfully

said. “Juvenile justice is an absolutely critical issue for us and while we’re engaging

• Camp Provides New Experiences for Area Kids B1

• Housing Authority

Expands ‘Move to Work’ Program B1 in this discussion in this country girls and women must be included in the discussion because our needs are different in the criminal justice system.” According to data released by the Bureau of Justice Statistics in 2007, the most recently available data, more than 50 percent of the women in jail reported having been physically or sexually abused before their imprisonment. Coming from an abusive environment directly impacts how young women see themselves, and therefore the decisions they make. According to the American Continued on A3

Baltimore’s Outdated Models Leave Some Wondering if Homelessness is a Priority By Roberto Alejandro Special to the AFRO ralejandro@afro.com “If Mrs. Blake would go ahead and give us an opportunity, give us a building, let us go ahead and work on it – because we have skills – we could fix that building up and we could live in there. Charge a certain amount of

rent, which is reasonable because we are homeless, but help us out.” Warren Bell, a homeless resident of an encampment along Fallsway, made this request of Baltimore City Mayor Stephanie Rawlings-Blake. But as members of the homeless services community are increasingly emboldened to point out, it is a request Continued on A3

“Among health officials lupus has been termed everything from “unpredictable,” to “misunderstood,” and is difficult to diagnose. “

Continued on A3

Photo by Roberto Alejandro

(L to R) Kay-Kay, Archie Williams, and Warren Bell pose for a picture before a tent at a homeless encampment along Fallsway in downtown Baltimore. All three are current or former residents of the encampment who are still navigating homelessness.

The Afro-American, July 11, 2015 - July 17, 2015

NATION & WORLD

Your History • Your Community • Your News

Show.” His lawyers objected to the release of the material, arguing it would embarrass him. Ultimately, a judge seized on Cosby’s public moralizing as he unsealed portions of the deposition. “The stark contrast between Bill Cosby, the public moralist and Bill Cosby, the subject of serious allegations concerning improper (and perhaps criminal) conduct, is a matter as to which the AP — and by extension the public — has a significant interest,” U.S. District Judge Eduardo Robreno wrote. Cosby, 77, has been accused by more than two dozen women of sexual misconduct dating back more than four decades. He has never been charged with a crime, and the statute of limitations on most of the accusations has expired. (AP Photo/Evan Vucci, File) Cosby’s lawyers in the Philadelphia case haven’t returned Cosby admitted in a 2005 deposition that he obtained messages seeking comment. Quaaludes with the intent of using them to have sex with Cosby’s lawyers insisted during the deposition that two of his young women. accusers knew they were taking quaaludes from him, according to the documents. Nevertheless, attorneys for some of the women suing Cosby seized PHILADELPHIA (AP) — Bill Cosby’s admission that he obtained on the testimony as powerful corroboration of their accusations. quaaludes to give young women before sex could bolster criminal and “The women have been saying they’ve been drugged and abused, civil claims being pursued by his accusers, their lawyers said after The and these documents appear to support the allegations,” said lawyer Associated Press reported on newly released court documents. Joe Cammarata, who represents Therese Serignese, who met Cosby in Cosby in sworn testimony unsealed Monday admitted that he gave Las Vegas and said she was sexually assaulted backstage. She is one of the now-banned sedative to a 19-year-old woman before they had sex three women now suing him for defamation. in Las Vegas in the 1970s. He also admitted giving the powerful drug Cosby, giving sworn testimony in the lawsuit accusing him of to unnamed others. sexually assaulting Constand at his home near Philadelphia in 2004, His lawyer interfered before he could answer deposition questions said he had obtained seven quaalude prescriptions in the 1970s. in 2005 about how many women were given drugs and whether they Constand’s lawyer asked if he had kept knew about it. the sedatives through the 1990s — after “So this confirms the suspicions, and Afro Editorial: The Sad Declining they were banned — but was frustrated also the allegations, of many other women by objections from Cosby’s attorney. Imagery of Dr. Cliff Huxtable - A5 who allege that they are victims of Bill “When you got the quaaludes, was it Cosby, and who have suspected that he used in your mind that you were going to use a drug — quaaludes or perhaps some other drug — in order to take advantage of them,” said lawyer Gloria Allred, these quaaludes for young women that you wanted to have sex with?” lawyer Dolores M. Troiani asked. commenting on her understanding of the court documents. “Yes,” Cosby answered. She represents several Cosby accusers, including a woman who “Did you ever give any of these young women the quaaludes said Cosby molested her at the Playboy Mansion when she was 15. without their knowledge?” Allred has been pursuing potential criminal charges in California Cosby’s lawyer again objected, leading Troiani to petition the on that woman’s behalf, while Cosby’slawyers have been fighting the federal judge to force Cosby to cooperate. effort, she said. Cosby later said he gave Constand, who was about 30 and had The AP had Correction: In a picture caption in gone to Cosby for career advice, three half-pills of Benadryl, though gone to court to last week’s Afro Pamela Darien was Troiani in the documents voices doubt that was the drug involved. compel the release mis-identified. Constand thought he was giving her an herbal remedy for stress, of a deposition she said in her lawsuit. She recalls having him touch her breasts and This is Pamela in a 2005 sexual put her hand on his penis, and woke up to find her clothes askew, Darien, abuse lawsuit according to her lawsuit. Cosbycalled any sexual contact consensual, valedictorian filed by former according to Troiani’s summary of his deposition testimony. Temple University of SojournerLawyer Gayle Sproul, representing the AP, in court last month basketball team Douglass called Cosby “an icon” who “held himself out as someone who would employee Andrea College class guide the public in ways of morality.” Constand — the Troiani, summarizing her evidence, painted a starkly different of 2015. In first of a cascade picture. addition, of lawsuits Cosby “has evidenced a predilection for sexual contact with the school’s againstCosby that women who are unconscious or drugged. His victims are young, ‘star have severely commencement struck’ and totally trusting of his public persona,” Troiani argued. Pamela Darien damaged his image took place on as doting TV dad June 27, not June 28. The Afro regrets Associated Press writers David Bauder in New York and Allen G. Dr. Cliff Huxtable Breed in Durham, North Carolina, contributed to this report. the error. on “The Cosby

Lawyers: Cosby’s Drugs-Sex Admission Could Aid Women’s Cases Against Famed Comedian

The Afro-American Newspapers

Baltimore Office • Corporate Headquarters 2519 N. Charles Street Baltimore, Maryland 21218-4602 410-554-8200 • Fax: 1-877-570-9297 www.afro.com Founded by John Henry Murphy Sr., August 13, 1892 Chairman of the Board/Publisher - John J. Oliver, Jr. President - Benjamin M. Phillips IV Executive Assistant - Sallie Brown - 410-554-8222 Receptionist - Wanda Pearson - 410-554-8200 Director of Advertising Lenora Howze - 410-554-8271 - lhowze@afro.com Baltimore Advertising Manager Robert Blount - 410-554-8246 - rblount@afro.com Director of Finance - Jack Leister - 410-554-8242 Archivist - Ja-Zette Marshburn - 410-554-8265 Director, Community & Public Relations Diane W. Hocker - 410-554-8243 Editorial Editor - Kamau High Washington D.C. Editor - LaTrina Antoine Editorial Assistant - Takiea Hinton Production Department - 410-554-8288 Baltimore Circulation/Distribution Manager Sammy Graham - 410-554-8266

Washington Office 1917 Benning Road, N.E. Washington, D.C. 20002-4723 202-332-0080 • Fax: 1-877-570-9297 (Washington Publisher Emerita - Frances L. Murphy II) General Manager Washington Circulation/Distribution Manager Edgar Brookins - 202-332-0080, ext. 106 Director of Advertising Lenora Howze - ext. 119 - lhowze@afro.com Business Solutions Consultant Elaine Fuller - ext. 115 - efuller@afro.com Advertising Account Executive Vetta Ridgeway - ext. 1104 - vridgeway@afro.com Office Administrator - Mia Hayes-Hawkins - ext. 100

Customer Service, Home Delivery and Subscriptions: 410-554-8234 • Customer Service@afro.com Billing Inquiries: 410-554-8226 Nights and Weekends: 410-554-8282

Transform

YOUR LIFE

AFFORDABLE đ CONVENIENT đ FLEXIBLE Prince George’s Community College’s top priority is ensuring that students begin their higher education journey and complete a degree. Through flexible and convenient learning options, students earn degrees, transfer to four-year institutions, and prepare for rewarding careers. We are transforming lives.

SUMMER

FALL

JUNE 1

AUG 22

classes begin

Park within

Enroll Today!

the white lines

PGCC.edu 301-546-PGCC (7422) Start dates vary for Continuing Education classes.

130+

Degree & Certificate Programs

1,600+ 40,000+ Course Offerings

Students Served Yearly

Online Courses also available

How can you stop a streetcar dead in its track, cause delays and get towed? Sloppy and improper parking. Streetcars operate on tracks and cannot go around improperly parked cars or cars doubleparked on the tracks. So park your entire vehicle, including side mirrors, within the white lines. Don’t hold up the show, and don’t get towed.

dcstreetcar.com

The Afro-American, July 11, 2015 - July 11, 2015

July 11, 2015 - July 17, 2015, The Afro-American

7-Year Old Killed During Independence Day Celebrations CHICAGO (AP) — Authorities say a 7-year-old boy who was celebrating the Fourth of July with his family was among three people who were shot and killed overnight in Chicago. Police say the child, Amari Brown, was shot after someone opened fire just before midnight on July 4 in the Humboldt Park neighborhood. He was pronounced dead on July 5 at Stroger Hospital. According to Police Superintendent Garry McCarthy, the boy’s father, a “ranking gang member,” had been the intended target. No one was taken into custody on July 5. Additionally, a 26-year-old man was fatally shot in the Albany Park neighborhood and a 26-year-old man was gunned down in the South Shore neighborhood. Police also say two men, ages 25 and 31, were killed after dawn on July 5 when somebody fired on their SUV, which sped away and crashed.

AP Photo

Amari Brown was killed by gunfire.

Lupus Continued from A1 lobbied for more than $32 billion in research funding for the National Institutes of Health and to elevate lupus on the nation’s health care agenda. The funding would not only aid researchers in studying the disease, but also supply a collective guideline for diagnosis, treatment, and outreach that could be utilized by professionals and patients alike. “Our research has shown that, on average, individuals with lupus suffer symptoms for four or more years and visit three or more doctors before they receive a diagnosis of lupus,” said Sandra C. Raymond, president and CEO of the Lupus Foundation of America. “I’m pleased to see

a collaborative effort among advocacy groups, researchers, physicians and leaders in public health and government to provide critical tools that will help reduce the time

women diagnosed with lupus, that those impacted ranged in age from 15-44 and exhibited a range of symptoms from a skin rash to kidney (renal) failure.

“These data directly reflect the burden of lupus in our community. These are mostly young, minority women who are going to dialysis instead of working and caring for

“Our research has shown that, on average, individuals with lupus suffer symptoms for four or more years and visit three or more doctors before they receive a diagnosis of lupus.” –Sandra C. Raymond to diagnosis and improve medical care for people with lupus.” Dr. S. Sam Lim, associate professor in the Division of Rheumatology at Emory University School of Medicine in Atlanta, Ga., found, in a study of Black

“These are young women in the prime of their careers, family, and fertility. This means a severely compromised future, with a disease that waxes and wanes, affecting every aspect of daily living for the rest of their lives,” Lim said.

their families.” And despite the widespread prevalence of lupus, medical research has remained underfunded relative to its scope and devastation making the one in every 250 Black women diagnosed particularly

Prison Issues Continued from A1

Civil Liberties Union (ACLU), more than 14,000 girls (defined as under the age of 18) are currently incarcerated in the United States, a number that has been rapidly increasing in recent decades. Most girls, arrested for minor, nonviolent offenses and probation violations, are locked up under the guise of rehabilitation and subjected to punitive solitary confinement, routine strip searches, and other forms of abuse. Esché L. Jackson, a University of Southern California graduate who was a foster youth before she was incarcerated told the audience that exposure to violence at a young age impacted her childhood and early adulthood. “I think I was traumatized because there were a lot of domestic issues I was experiencing that translated into my academics, and then my behavior was worse,” said Jackson who stood trial for murder to protect her boyfriend. “I was in the street life and I was gang-affiliated, just leading a life of destruction.” U.S. Rep. Bobby Scott, (D-Va.), who introduced H.R. 1064 The Youth Promise Act, which promotes a reduction in prison sentences through mentoring and intervention, joined Scott and said his program would do a lot to keep young girls from getting into trouble, as well as cut down on recidivism. “We have a criminal justice system that as policy just waits until people get off track, join a gang mess up and get caught and then get into a bidding war over who can impose the most egregious sentence,” Scott said. “Waiting until it’s too late has gotten us to a point where we lock up a higher portion of our population than any country on earth. We can do something about these young women if we take a proactive approach.”

vulnerable to misdiagnoses. Scientists are baffled as to why. Even with the famous 10-year Lupus in Minorities: Nature Versus Nurture (LUMINA) study, which tracked a sizeable multi-ethnic, multi-regional, and multi-institutional group of lupus sufferers, no consistent cause for the racial disparity was found. Genetic and ethnic factors were noted, however, to be more important than socioeconomic ones in influencing the disease’s growth. Lim said several organizations, including

the National Lupus Patient Registry, provide tremendous resources to those impacted by the disease. He said that 20 years ago, only 40 percent of people with lupus lived more than three years following diagnosis, with current therapies, most now live a normal lifespan. “We have to build the next line of research projects to determine the additional ‘whys’ of the disproportionate rates in minorities and poorer outcomes as well as other important questions involving the role of the immune system and genetics,” Lim said.

Homelessness Continued from A1

likely to fall on deaf ears in a city that seems intent on moving backwards on the issue of homelessness. Baltimore City officials are espousing outmoded models of addressing homelessness, insisting on approaches known to be ineffective, say advocates, while simultaneously ignoring the voices and desires of Baltimore’s homeless themselves. Antonia Fasanelli, executive director of the Homeless Persons Representation Project, stood along the western sidewalk of N. Martin Luther King Blvd, serving as a legal observer as city workers removed the tents and other belongings of homeless persons encamped in the sanctuary of a highway overpass on June 26. “We thought the city was committed to housing and ‘housing first’ as the solution to homelessness. Well, this action is in clear disregard to that stated mission, and it causes us to have concerns about whether the city is actually serious about ending homelessness,” said Fasanelli, referring to a model (‘housing first’) for addressing homelessness that has had tremendous success around the country, and recently lead the state of Utah to declare that it has virtually eradicated chronic homelessness, according to reports in the L.A. Times and Washington Post. The model solves homelessness by simply giving people homes. Wrap-around services to address mental health, substance abuse, and other needs are offered but participation in them is not necessarily required. Housing first has proved highly effective at stabilizing circumstances enough to allow most homeless persons to receive whatever assistance they need in order to reach the point where they can sustain housing long-term. It is not, however, the model that Dr. Jacqueline DuvalHarvey, director of the Mayor’s Office of Human Services, insisted is necessary for effectively addressing homelessness. “[Permanent housing] is a process. You can’t simply just put a person in a house, that person needs to be able to sustain themselves, the person needs to be able to live up to all of what we do when we have a home. There are responsibilities that come with that, there’s a process, and part of that continuum is

to get that person able to stay in that home,” said Duval-Harvey at the same encampment removal. But that continuum Duval-Harvey referred to is an outdated model known as continuum of care, which begins with living in a shelter, receiving treatment and other services until one is at the point where one can sustain housing on one’s own, and only

all the more baffling to the advocacy community. “We’ve been using [‘housing first’] informally in the city for 30 years, formally though started in 2005, when then Mayor Martin O’Malley gave [Health Care for the Homeless] some money to take 32 people out of St. Vincent’s Park and put them in their own apartments. It worked really well, even today almost all of them are still housed, and we’ve replicated that model many times.” As Duval-Harvey’s comments indicate, the city has not implemented a housing first approach to homelessness, but both Singer and Fasanelli indicated that the city has nonetheless paid lip service to housing first as a best practice when speaking to the advocacy community, only to continue with their outmoded practices, including breaking up homeless encampments. It is a frustration for the advocacy community, –Dr. Jacqueline Duval-Harvey but it is “devastating” for the homeless, as Harris described losing his home of three years to the city’s encampment removal at Martin Luther King then culminates in the provision of permanent housing. Blvd. “That’s the old model,” said Jeff Singer, former President But Duval-Harvey’s insistence that the continuum of care is and CEO of Health Care for the Homeless, and someone who the only way to ensure the successful transition of the homeless has been working on the problem of homelessness in Baltimore into permanent housing suggests the city is not hearing the City for over 30 years in both city government and advocacy voices of the advocacy community, and even less of the organizations. “Everyone knows [the continuum of care model] homeless themselves. doesn’t work. ‘A,’ there aren’t enough shelter beds . . . but ‘B,’ Archie Williams, homeless in Baltimore City for three years, a lot of people won’t and can’t go to shelters. The solution [to spent much of that period living along Fallsway. An advocate homelessness] is housing. When people get their own place to for his fellow homeless, Williams replied “Absolutely not,” live, they often usually stay there, and when they get supportive when asked whether the input of the homeless is sought by the services there’s no more homelessness [for them].” city in their formulation of policy. Singer is certainly correct about the aversion to shelters “In order to find out what homelessness is you have to held by many homeless persons. Bell says the behavior of other come and see it yourself, you have to come and be a part of it shelter residents, not to mention the smells, keeps him away yourself. Not per se be a part of it, but you have to come and from the shelters. Shanae, a homeless mother with her infant engage it,” continued Williams, saying that our city officials son visiting the encampment at Fallsway, says she is treated seem to be informed by a “TV, watered down version” of like a child at shelters, but worse, she cannot enter a shelter homelessness as opposed to the reality. with the father of her child, Steven, who was with her at the encampment. “The only way that we can be together [in a shelter] is if we’re married,” explained Shanae, adding, “Why should I have to be forced to do something that I feel like we might not be ready for . . . Marriage is not something that you play with.” Marlon Harris, a resident of the encampment that was broken up at Martin Luther King Blvd, said the only time he contracted lice was while staying in a shelter, and that he feels a stay in a shelter is unnecessary since he has no addiction or other issues requiring the treatment offered there. “I asked for housing,” said Harris. “I’ve been on a housing list for over five years.” But if what Harris needs is housing, the only offer on the table from the city is a shelter so long as it is married to the continuum of care model. This is a model that is not only outdated and ineffective, says Singer, but Baltimore has seen housing first approaches work, making the city’s current stance

“[Permanent housing] is a process. You can’t simply just put a person in a house, that person needs to be able to sustain themselves, the person needs to be able to live up to all of what we do when we have a home.”

The Afro-American, July 11, 2015 - July 17, 2015

July 11, 2015 - July 11, 2015, The Afro-American

Living with Lupus By Shantella Y. Sherman Special to the AFRO ssherman@afro.com

Diagnosing lupus is especially tricky; however, physicians are working toward streamlining the criteria for diagnosis that include looking for signs of inflammation. A physician may also evaluate current symptoms, laboratory test results, and medical history. And while no single laboratory test can determine a lupus diagnosis, multiple criteria presented simultaneously can often lead to an official diagnosis. After diagnosis, treatments may include: • Anti-inflammatory medications – help relieve many of the symptoms of lupus by reducing inflammation and pain. For many people with lupus, an anti-inflammatory drug may be the only medication they need to control their lupus.

• Corticosteroids (also known as glucocorticoids, cortisone or steroids) – synthetic (man-made) prescription drugs designed to work like the body’s naturally occurring hormones produced by the adrenal glands, in particular cortisol. Cortisol helps regulate blood pressure and the immune system and it is the body’s most potent anti-inflammatory hormone. • Antimalarials – prescription drugs used in combination with steroids and other medications, in part to reduce the dose required of the other drugs. Antimalarials are most often prescribed for skin rashes, mouth ulcers and joint pain, but also can be effective in mild forms of lupus where inflammation and blood clotting are a concern. • Immunosuppressives (Immune Modulators) – prescription drugs used to control inflammation and the overactive immune system, especially when steroids have been unable to bring lupus symptoms under control, or when a person cannot tolerate high doses of steroids.

In addition to medications and other medical care from doctors, a large and growing number of people turn to other healing practices to try to improve their health, including chiropractic, acupuncture and Tai Chi, and massage therapies.

Join Plenti for free and start earning points today!

Plenti is a new way to get rewards at Macy’s and lots of other places! Join for free to earn points at one place and use them at another, all with a single rewards card.

See a Sales Associate or visit macys.com/plentiinfo to sign up and get more details. Plenti points cannot be earned or used on fees and services or on some purchases, such as at certain food establishments and leased departments within Macy’s stores. To be eligible to join Plenti, you must be at least 13 years of age and have a residence in the United States or its territories, or Canada. Plenti is only available in the United States and its territories. For complete terms and conditions, including a complete list of exclusions, see Sales Associate or visit macys.com/plentiinfo

ONE DAY SALE 5O%-85% OFF STOREWIDE SHOP SAT, JULY 11 FROM 9AM-11PM (IT’S A SALE TOO BIG TO FIT IN A DAY!)

ALSO SHOP FRI, JULY 1O FROM 9AM-1OPM HOURS MAY VARY BY STORE. VISIT MACYS.COM & CLICK ON STORES FOR LOCAL INFORMATION.

ONE DAY SALE

DEALS OF THE DAY

SPECIALLY SELECTED ITEMS PRICED SO LOW YOU DON’T NEED A SAVINGS PASS! AVAILABLE ALL DAY, BOTH DAYS!

5 HOURS ONLY! 9AM-2PM FRI & SAT

DOORBUSTERS GET HERE EARLY, WHILE THEY LAST FREE SHIPPING & FREE RETURNS AT MACYS.COM

FREE SHIPPING WITH $99 PURCHASE. FREE RETURNS BY MAIL OR IN-STORE. U.S. ONLY. EXCLUSIONS APPLY; DETAILS AT MACYS.COM/FREERETURNS CANNOT BE USED ON DOORBUSTERS OR DEALS OF THE DAY

CANNOT BE USED ON DOORBUSTERS OR DEALS OF THE DAY

SELECT SALE & CLEARANCE APPAREL AND HOME ITEMS

WOW! $1O OFF

1O OFF

YOUR PURCHASE OF $25 OR MORE.

VALID 7/10 ‘TIL 2PM OR 7/11/15 ‘TIL 2PM. LIMIT ONE PER CUSTOMER. Excludes: Everyday Values (EDV), specials, super buys, cosmetics/fragrances, electrics/ electronics, floor coverings, furniture, mattresses, rugs. Also excludes: athletic apparel, shoes & accessories; Dallas Cowboys merchandise, gift cards, jewelry trunk shows, Macy’s Backstage merchandise/locations, New Era, Nike on Field, previous purchases, selected licensed depts., services, special orders, special purchases, macys.com. Cannot be combined with any savings pass/coupon, extra discount or credit offer, except opening a new Macy’s account. Dollar savings are allocated as discounts off each eligible item, as shown on receipt. When you return an item, you forfeit the savings allocated to that item. This coupon has no cash value and may not be redeemed for cash, used to purchase gift cards or applied as payment or credit to your account. Purchase must be $25 or more, exclusive of tax & delivery fees.

WOW! $2O OFF

2O OFF

YOUR PURCHASE OF $50 OR MORE.

ONE DAY SALE PRICES IN EFFECT 7/10 & 7/11/2015. OPEN A MACY’S ACCOUNT FOR EXTRA 20% SAVINGS THE FIRST 2 DAYS, UP TO $100, WITH MORE REWARDS TO COME. Macy’s credit card is available subject to credit approval; new account savings valid the day your account is opened and the next day; excludes services, selected licensed departments, gift cards, restaurants, gourmet food & wine. The new account savings are limited to a total of $100; application must qualify for immediate approval to receive extra savings; employees not eligible. N5060159A.indd 1

6/29/15 10:13 AM

July 11, 2015 - July 17, 2015 The Afro-American

EDITORIAL

Bill Cosby: The Sad Declining Imagery of Dr. Cliff Huxtable When Bill Cosby answered the question, “When you got the Quaaludes, was it in your mind that you were going to use these Quaaludes for young women that you wanted to have sex with?”, he answered it with a one word reply: “Yes”. That response appears to have precipitated an apparent change about the opinion of Cosby, who has long presented himself ,and been viewed, as the personification of the American Black middle class family head-of- household through his Dr. Cliff Huxtable character on the popular TV series “The Cosby Show”. Cosby answered that particular question in a deposition in 2005 that has only recently been reported on by the Associated Press. The disclosure of that deposition has reignited the storm relating to a plethora of sexual abuse allegations hurled against Cosby during the past months. More than two dozen women, including Beverly Johnson, an internationally famous Black model, and Michelle Hurd, a well known Black actress best known from the “Law & Order” TV series, have come forward saying Cosby committed or attempted various inappropriate acts ranging from drugging and raping them to improper touching. Throughout the period of these allegations, Cosby has continuously and consistently denied every single one of these assertions. Comments on The Afro’s Facebook page (facebook.com/ AfroAmericanNews) about the recently disclosed Cosby admission have in many instances reflected the community’s outrage and disappointment. There are nevertheless comments, that continue to be sympathetic to Cosby’s plight.

As one poster put it, “I AM STILL STANDING BY BILL COSBY…INNOCENT UNTIL PROVEN GUILTY...” Such support prior to the deposition disclosure had apparently been held by a vast majority of the individuals who had previously commented on the Cosby allegations. There is now, however a growing number of the community’s responses consistent with the following: “Stop making excuses for this man. The character he played on TV was upright and morally sound. Bill Cosby the man is not.” The debate about the once universally idolized Cosby apparently continues to be a hot item on the AFRO Face Book site and throughout the community. Whatever the eventual outcome will be from this unfortunate series of events, it is our opinion that the luster that once surrounded this celebrity has unfortunately been irretrievably tarnished.

Cosby the comedian, movie actor and TV star will never be the same. But his actions, if the allegations are true, may have already tarnished the lives of the women who apparently are now standing more united than ever in registering their outrage as a result of being his alleged victims.

A Bowser Ally Responds To AFRO Article I want to provide a perspective that was missing from James Wright’s June 24th article on Mayor Bowser and her first six months in office. I live in Deanwood, located in Ward 7, and have seen and interacted with her, in my community, in the last 6 months more than I did with her predecessors during their entire terms. In my observations, Mayor Bowser has launched a serious effort to create a Pathway to the Middle class by investing heavily in education initiatives that help our young men of color, addressing homelessness and affordable housing, and expanding job programs such as our summer youth employment program. Like every Mayor before her, she has brought on a team that she feels best equipped to tackle the challenges of running a dynamic city. The city is rapidly changing and requires both competent veterans and new personnel. I see the Mayor and her team working within all eight wards. And the Mayor has put special attention into communities like Deanwood. Her office, in collaboration with

Antawan Holmes

the Metropolitan Police Department, has conducted Safety Walks with community leaders to address security and service needs within the neighborhood.

“At the six month mark, I think the Mayor is moving in the right direction by engaging the community at a personal level to address systemic issues that have existed long before she won the election.” I know a lot of people in our community have had consistent, positive and productive interactions with the Mayor’s Office of Community Relations (MOCRS). I have

personally worked with Mr. Wendell Felder (MOCRS Ward 7 representative) and he provides 110 percent effort in his work. He works seven days a week with residents to address service issues in our neighborhood. Many residents have called me to praise his efforts in addressing their issues. These liaisons work with other executive agencies to address local needs like vacant properties, lots and streetscape issues. I enjoy the fact that MOCRS are single points of contacts for all other agencies. I would like to see more cross sectional agency teamwork to address various neighborhood issues efficiently. At the six month mark, I think the Mayor is moving in the right direction by engaging the community at a personal level to address systemic issues that have existed long before she won the election. We all know that progress will not occur overnight so let’s give Mayor Bowser time to make progress on the long-term issues that have negatively impacted East of the river. Antawan Holmes, Deanwood Advisory Neighborhood Commissioner, Washington, D.C.

Clean Air Safeguards will bring better health, lower bills A study recently released by the National Black Chamber of Commerce (NBCC) has taken aim at the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA)’s Clean Power Plan, which places the first ever federal carbon pollution standards on existing power plants. The study makes the claim that EPA’s Clean Power Plan will jeopardize the health of minority communities by raising electricity costs. Nothing could be further from the truth. Independent research conducted by the Georgia Institute of Technology has found that the Clean Power Plan will shrink electricity bills by roughly eight percent per person in 2030, saving Americans an average of $10 each month. What is worse is that by spreading misinformation about the EPA’s landmark carbon pollution safeguards, we are jeopardizing the health of minorities all across the country because climate change is one of the greatest public health challenges of our time. Our physicians are on the front lines every day and they see firsthand the dire consequences that granting polluters free reign to foul our air is having on our communities and our children. We know that the health impacts of climate change— such as more asthma attacks and higher rates of respiratory illness—are real and are happening now. Nine out of ten National Medical Association members surveyed report that

Martin Hamlette

climate change is affecting the health of their patients and an overwhelming majority say the U.S. should make a large scale effort to protect people from current effects of climate change. Nearly nine out of ten members who were surveyed also

“…we are jeopardizing the health of minorities all across the country because climate change is one of the greatest public health challenges of our time.” believe air pollution increases the severity of chronic disease. What’s more, the health costs caused by climate change are not evenly shared, with study after study confirming that minority communities are bearing the brunt of high levels of toxic air pollution. According to the National Association for the Advancement of Colored People (NAACP), nearly 40 percent of the six million Americans living in close proximity to a coal plant are people of color. Blacks also have the highest rate of asthma in the country and make 350 percent more emergency

room visits for asthma-related issues than the average rate among whites. Figures like these show that we need to be doing everything we can to make sure that all Americans can have cleaner air. The EPA is poised to take a huge step in the right direction with the Clean Power Plan, which is estimated to prevent 6,600 premature deaths, up to 150,000 asthma attacks in children, and up to 490,000 missed work and school days annually by 2030. Strong clean air standards will save everyday Americans money and improve their health. In fact, The Clean Power Plan has public health and climate benefits estimated at $55-$95 billion per year by 2030, far outweighing any costs. Minority communities have so far been some of the biggest supporters of cleaning up our air. No one should have to live in dirty air that makes them sick, but it’s especially unfair that our least fortunate and most vulnerable communities—our children and those living in poverty and with lower incomes —have to suffer even more than the rest. It is proven that strong pollution controls will cut costs for consumers and also reduce the health impacts associated with air pollution, making the Clean Power Plan a clear win-win for minority communities across America. Martin Hamlette is the Executive Director of the National Medical Association

The opinions on this page are those of the writers and not necessarily those of the AFRO. Send letters to The Afro-American, 2519 N. Charles St., Baltimore, MD 21218 or fax to 1-877-570-9297 or e-mail to editor@afro.com

The Afro-American, July 11, 2015 - July 17, 2015

July 11, 2015 - July 17, 2015, The Afro-American

Washington

District Housing Authority Expands ‘Move to Work’ Program

Inside • Top Ladies of Distinction National Convention B4

Courtesy Photo

By Shantella Y. Sherman Special to the AFRO ssherman@afro.com

D.C. Del. Eleanor Holmes Norton supports U.S. diplomatic ties to Cuba.

Thaw in U.S.Cuba Relations Offers Local Economic Opportunities By James Wright Special to the AFRO jwright@afro.com On July 1, President Obama announced that the U.S. is ending the stalemate with Cuba. D.C. Del. Eleanor Holmes Norton (D), among other people and groups, praised the president for his actions in restoring relations with the island nation. “The announcement of re-opening embassies and re-establishing diplomatic relations is a historic moment

“I would love to open up a Busboys and Poets in Havana.” – Andy Shallal

for the U.S. and Cuba as we move toward reshaping our relationship to meet conditions in the 21st century,” Norton said. “A U.S. embassy in Havana is the best way to continue our efforts to support the desire of the Cuban people for democracy and increased economic opportunities. Reopening the embassies at the very least can begin Cuba’s exposure to American values and democratic principles.” The U.S. embassy is scheduled to open in Havana on July 20. The Cuban embassy in D.C. will open on the same day. America and Cuba

Continued on B2

Photo by Rob Roberts

Hundreds of thousands of area residents gathered on the National Mall for the National Park Service Fourth of July Celebration.

Family Matters Camp Enriches Area Youth

organization, Family Matters also plans to finish a “running track” and purchase additional beds for the cabins at the camp.

By LaTrina Antoine Washington D.C. Editor lantoine@afro.com

Also, in a partnership with the D.C. Department of Human Each year a local organization sets plans to better serve Services, Family Matters is currently funding 12 District youth youth from the D.C. metropolitan area by providing a summer who are homeless and living in a shelter to attend the camp. and winter camp that aims at educating participants in “I just saw what a gem it was and that one of the most academics, life skills and social interaction. important things I could do was to expand the camp amenities The camp, facilitated by Family Matters of Greater and to make this camp available to more people, more children, Washington, enables area youth to leave the city and its more families, seniors, veterans, etc.,” Smallwood said. surrounding suburbs to gain a new experience on life. Area Moss Hollow provides campers with more than just a fun youth, from seven to 14 years old, are currently attending week in the wilderness; campers are also enriched by academic the organization’s Camp Moss Hollow located in Markham, and survival classes. Virginia. The “We’re camp was always focused formed in 1966. on education,” “Camp Moss Smallwood Hollow is one said, referring of the signature to Science, programs of Technology, Family Matters Engineering and of Greater Mathematics Washington,” (STEM) Tonya Jackson activities, such as Smallwood, gardening for the president and campers. CEO of the “It’s an organization amazing place told the AFRO and it’s a dream on June 30. come true,” she “It’s very said. inspirational, it’s Xavier an opportunity Stewart, a rising to connect fifth grader at Courtesy of Family Matters educationally, Clinton Grove Bob Levey; Trina Alexander Eaddy; Eddie Adkins; Jeff Mendell; Michael Preston academically, Elementary (rear); Jerry Smallwood; and Tonya Jackson Smallwood in front of the recently also socially School in built amphitheatre at Camp Moss Hollow. with other Maryland, people. We’ve agreed. “It’s fun,” been trying to he said. “It was do more and more things to create that powerful ambiance for easy to make friends and I was excited because I wanted to try kids where they can’t wait to come to Camp Moss Hollow in something new.” the summers and the winters.” Every year Family Matters holds a “Send a Kid to Camp” The organization recently held a ribbon cutting ceremony campaign to raise money for children in the D.C. area to attend at the camp on June 30 for a new amphitheatre, in addition to the camp. This year, the organization set a goal of $500,000 remodeling the swimming pool and building a tennis court and in which it has raised $176,554 to-date. To donate to the a softball diamond. But, the plans don’t stop there. campaign, visit https://crowdrise.com/SAKTC/fundraiser/ According to Jennifer Devlin, media contact for the familymattersofDC. The campaign will run until August 21.

The District is banking on a new program to decrease the average length of time residents live in public housing—over 20 years, according to a 2013 Wall Street Journal article. The two-decade stay, along with gross mismanagement of many public housing facilities, has forced the Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) to seek new, cost-effective measures to limit stays and reassess need criteria. Among them, the District’s ‘Moving to Work’ program – Creative Living Solutions, recently saw the graduation of 28 families from its Family Self-Sufficiency and Achieving Your Best Life programs. The ceremony, held on June 25, recognized the 26 self-sufficiency program and two life program graduates for completing milestones such as gaining employment, improving their financial

“…fewer affordable housing units and shrinking budgets make their efforts an uphill battle.” literacy, or purchasing a home. Creative Living Solutions programs function as a part of the national HUD strategy to eliminate the growing need for subsidized housing through tenant incentives for participating in job training, educational, or other programs that assist in obtaining selfsufficiency. Even as District of Columbia Housing Authority (DCHA) staff and community partners work to promote selfsufficiency among residents in its nearly 8,700 public housing units and utilizing the 12,900 Housing Choice Vouchers it administers, fewer affordable housing units and shrinking

Continued on B3

D.C. Democrats Prep for 2016 Elections

Mayor Bowser’s Allies Respond to Criticism Over Job Performance

By James Wright Special to the AFRO jwright@afro.com

The District’s Democratic Party is working to ensure it will be a force in the 2016 local and presidential elections. The District has proven since the 1973 advent of Home Rule to be a Democratic Party bastion of power. Nevertheless, party leaders are urging Democrats in the city not to become complacent. “We cannot take it for granted that Democrats will automatically win in this city,” D.C. Mayor Muriel Bowser told party members at the 11th Lorraine H. Whitlock Memorial Scholarship and Recognition Dinner on June 25. The dinner honored Whitlock, who is deceased, and party members Derek Ford and Barbara McCoy, and presented a scholarship to H.D. Continued on B3

The AFRO, in its June 24 edition, published an article

wikimedia.org

Donna Brazile is a political commentator and Democratic Party activist.

“Mayor Bowser Gets Mixed Reviews” that has political observers talking. When the AFRO sought to get the mayor’s response to the article’s critical comments on

“We all know that progress will not occur overnight so let’s give Mayor Bowser time to make progress …” – Antawan Holmes

her six-month tenure on July 1, at the formal opening of her office in Anacostia, she wasn’t interested in discussing it. As a response, however, Bowser’s communications team solicited Antawan Holmes, an advisory neighborhood commissioner for single-member district 7C07, to state the mayor’s case for her job performance and personnel decisions. “I live in Deanwood located in Ward 7 and have Continued on B3

The Afro-American, July 11, 2015 - July 17, 2015

Mayor Bowser’s Allies Continued from B1

seen and interacted with her [Mayor Bowser] needs within the neighborhood.” have had consistent, positive, productive in the community in the last six months more In the July 1 article, residents Jauhar interactions with the MOCRS,” he said. than I did with her predecessors during their Abraham and Constance Woody expressed “I have personally worked with [Ward 7 entire terms,” Holmes said in an exclusive opreservations about the representatives of the representative] Wendell Felder and he provides ed to the AFRO (see op-ed on A5). “Like every Mayor’s Office of Community Relations 110 percent effort in his work. He works mayor before her, she has brought seven days a week on a team that she feels best with residents to equipped to tackle the challenges address service of running a dynamic city. The city issues in our is rapidly changing and requires neighborhood.” both competent veterans and new He said “many personnel.” residents have Holmes refutes the notion that called me to praise Bowser isn’t sensitive to the needs his efforts in of struggling residents in eastern addressing their Washington. issues.” “In my observations, Mayor Holmes said Bowser has launched a serious that MOCRS effort to create a pathway to the work with other middle class by investing heavily executive agencies in education initiatives that help to deal with local young men of color, addressing issues like vacant homelessness and affordable properties, lots and housing, and expanding job streetscape issues. programs such as the summer youth “I enjoy the employment program,” he said. fact that MOCRS Holmes said that the mayor’s are a single point team is “working in all eight of contact for all wards.” AP File Photo other agencies,” “And the mayor has put special Muriel Bowser’s office solicited an advisory neighborhood commissioner to he said. However, attention into communities like he did express a state the mayor’s case for her job performance and personnel decisions. Deanwood,” the commissioner concern. “I would said. “Her office, in collaboration like to see more with the Metropolitan Police Department, (MOCRS) in their ward. Holmes disagrees cross sectional agency teamwork to address has conducted Safety Walks with community with them on that. various neighborhood issues efficiently,” leaders to address the security concerns and “I know a lot of people in our community Holmes said.

The commissioner said that Bowser has the city moving in the right direction at this point in her term. “We all know that progress will not occur overnight so let’s give Mayor Bowser time to make progress on the longterm issues that have negatively impacted east of the river,” he said. Jacque Patterson, a commissioner for single-member district 8B07, agrees with Holmes on Bowser’s appointments. “I applaud the mayor for appointing Courtney Snowden as deputy mayor for greater economic opportunity,” Patterson said. “Snowden knows our community and she is going to do a good job.” Patterson said that Bowser’s pick to lead the Department of Employment Services, Deborah A. Carroll, was also a good hire. “I know of Deborah Carroll’s work and she’ll provide employment opportunities for people,” he said. “I think that through her work, the employment rate will be lifted.” District resident Karen Todd concurred with Holmes in calling for patience. “Change doesn’t come quickly,” Todd said. “Anything of substance takes time because things have been messed up for such a long time that it will take a bit of time to get things straight. Still, I have seen great change in such a short period of time.” One example, Todd said, is that children can ride free on the bus with a voucher. “I think that is an amazing idea,” she said. “I wish I had that when I was young. To me, it is the small things that make a difference and Bowser is making a difference.”

U.S.-Cuba Relations Continued from B1

relations were on solid ground until revolutionary leader Fidel Castro kicked out the unpopular dictator Fulgencio Batista in early 1958 in a violent overthrow. Castro was declared prime minister of Cuba on Feb. 16, 1959, and began to take a leftist position on world affairs, such as aligning his country with the Soviet Union in the Cold War and supporting progressive people-oriented power movements and leaders in Africa, Asia, and Latin America. Throughout his decades in power, Castro supported Nelson Mandela and the African National Congress in South Africa, and liberation movements in Angola and Zimbabwe. On June 29, 1984, the Rev. Jesse Jackson persuaded Castro to release 16 American prisoners that were detained in Cuba. Nation of Islam Leader Louis Farrakhan has visited Cuba several times and is treated as a head of state while there. The Congressional Black Caucus has long questioned the value of the U.S. trade embargo against Cuba (imposed on Oct. 19, 1960) and, if Obama selects an ambassador to the country, political observers say that it could be U.S. Rep. Barbara Lee (D-Calif.), because of her passion in restoring ties with the country.

“I am glad to be co-sponsoring ‘The Freedom to Travel to Cuba Act’ and ‘Free Trade with Cuba Act’ to forge a new path forward,” Lee said recently. In addition, Cuba has a large African descent population, with estimates as high as 62 percent of Cubans possessing Black blood, according to a study by the Institute for Cuban and Cuban-American Studies at the University of Miami. Measuring the Afro-Cuban population is complicated because many darkskinned Cubans consider themselves Hispanic and not Black. Despite the enthusiasm for re-establishing ties with Cuba, many conservative Republicans, a few Democrats, and many mainland Cubans are opposed to Obama’s initiative. They oppose any attempt to negotiate with the Castro regime because of its repressive human rights violations. The opponents vow to block any ambassador that Obama names to the country and to keep the trade embargo in place. However, there is a movement in the District to embrace Cuba. University of the District of Columbia Interim President James E. Lyons recently announced the signing of a memorandum of understanding between the university and the University of Havana. The universities will start their

collaboration in January 2016 and will have an exchange program among their academic and administrative staffs, researchers, visiting scholars, as well as professional, graduate and undergraduate students. “The initial areas of agreement will be between UDC’s David A. Clarke School of Law and the Law College at Havana University, where Fidel Castro attended law school more than 70 years ago,” Lyons said. The arrangement was initiated and coordinated by UDC’s law school’s dean, Shelley Broderick. D.C. Council member Vincent Orange (D-At Large), who chairs the council’s Committee on Business, Consumer and Regulatory Affairs, said that Obama normalizing relations with Cuba is a good thing. “It opens up borders and opens up opportunities for trade,” Orange said. “There are opportunities for travel and tourism with Cuba and that will benefit everybody in the city.” Andy Shallal, the owner of the successful Busboys and Poets franchise in the Washington region, said he is excited about reestablishing ties with Cuba. “I would love to open up a Busboys and Poets in Havana,” Shallal said.

D.C. Democrats Continued from B1

Woodson 2015 valedictorian Christopher Chandler. Political observers have repeatedly pointed out the city’s changing racial and economic demographics are not reliably Democratic and that has gotten the attention of party leaders also. “We have to get fired up for 2016,” D.C. Council member Yvette Alexander (D-Ward 7) said at the Whitlock dinner. “We are ready for a Democrat to win the White House in 2016.” The Democrats have

“POETIC, MOVING, AND ENORMOUS FUN.”

—John Lahr, Author & Former Drama Critic, The New Yorker

WINNER

AUDIENCE AWARD

WASHINGTON, DC INT’L FILM FESTIVAL

OFFICIAL SELECTION

NEWPORT BEACH FILM FESTIVAL 2015

AMERICAN RHYTHM. A GLOBAL STORY.

DIRECTED BY DEAN HARGROVE tapworldfilm.com

STARTS FRIDAY, JULY 10

WASHINGTON, DC ANGELIKA POP-UP AT UNION MARKET 550 Penn St NE (571) 512-3313

FAIRFAX, VA ANGELIKA AT MOSAIC 2911 District Ave (571) 512-3301 www.angelikafilmcenter.com

LIVE PERFORMANCES / Q&As with CAST & FILMMAKERS, CHLOE AND MAUD ARNOLD OPENING WEEKEND. Visit tapworldfilm.com for details.

a 10-1 she has advantage recently over interacted Republicans in with Clinton. District voter “I was at registration the U.S. – Yvette Alexander Conference Party. Democrats of Mayors hold all [meeting] the city’s and I waited major elected offices, in line to greet Secretary with the exception of two Clinton,” the mayor said at independents on the D.C. the Whitlock Dinner. “When Council. I got to her and introduced In the 2016 Democratic myself, she pulled me over to presidential race, it appears the side. She said that she was that former Secretary of State aware of what was going on Hillary Rodham Clinton has in D.C. and wanted to connect the significant advantage with me in terms of an urban among D.C. party members. strategy.” “She is the most ready and Not all Democrats favor the most capable, and most Clinton. Andy Litsky, the formidable candidate that advisory neighborhood the Democrats have,” former commissioner for singleD.C. Council member Sekou member district 6D04, wants Biddle said at a Democratic U.S. Sen. Bernie Sanders fundraiser on July 1. “She (I-Vt.) to win the Democratic brings a lot to the table and nomination. “I am going for as a secretary of state and a the underdog,” Litsky said at senator.” the July 4th Palisades Parade. Marlena Edwards, a Ward “I want to make sure that all 4 Democratic activist, agrees views are heard and generate a with Biddle. “Hillary Clinton discussion about what is going has mettle,” Edwards said at on in the country and Sanders the fundraiser. “She is known has some really good ideas.” all over the globe and she is Advisory Neighborhood seen as an excellent leader. Commissioner 7B03 Gary The U.S. is behind in electing Butler is on Sanders’ women leaders and this is our bandwagon also, tweeting on chance to change that.” June 28 that “I support Bernie While Bowser didn’t state Sanders for president.” her presidential preference, The District will send 37

“We have to get fired up for 2016.”

delegates to the Democratic convention in Philadelphia next year and there is intense jockeying taking place for the 11 delegate positions reserved for activists and residents. “We will likely [add] two more spots for delegates but we are at 37 right now,” D.C. Council member Anita Bonds (D-At Large) and chairman of the D.C. State Democratic Committee said at the July 1 fundraiser. “There are about 26 spots reserved for what we in the party call superdelegates, such as the mayor, the chairman of the council, and [national Democratic leader] Donna Brazile, and labor union leaders. Brazile, who attended the fundraiser, said that while the District is sure to go Democratic in 2016, it is in a neighboring state where the help is needed. “We need D.C. Democrats to campaign in Virginia,” she said. “Virginia is very important. We need people in D.C. to get Virginians to support Democrats.” Bonds said that District Democrats will go “wherever is needed to win.” “Some people think it is too early to talk about the 2016 convention but if we don’t prepare now, we could lose out,” she said.

July 11, 2015 - July 17, 2015, The Afro-American

‘Move to Work’ Continued from B1

budgets make their efforts an uphill battle. Earlier this year DCHA increased the amount it can pay landlords in monthly rent to provide its Housing Choice Voucher Program customers more choice and flexibility in their housing. “Our families have fewer affordable housing options available to them now than they did just a few years ago,” said DCHA Executive Director Adrianne Todman. “This increase will allow them to have more choice and move to more areas of the city, to different school districts, and closer to their jobs.” Using the authority’s flexibility as a Moving to Work agency, DCHA increased the payment standard from 110 percent of the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development’s fair market rent to 130 percent. This effort under the program, made it possible to increase the number of rental submarkets voucher holders could reside in from 15 to 26. And as administrators look to enhance the program going forward, its proposed 2018 plan includes continued efforts to encourage self-sufficiency, but pushes for a more comprehensive and coordinated approach in facilitating access to services and resources for residents. Among DCHA goals: increase the number of families achieving homeownership, increase the number of families receiving self-sufficiency services, and increase families earned income as a result of rent reform efforts. Still, some economists, including Will Fischer, believe the program’s policies could disproportionately impact the working

“Among DCHA goals: increase the number of families achieving homeownership, increase the number of families receiving self-sufficiency services, and increase families earned income as a result of rent reform efforts.” poor. “[Some] policies may increase work to a degree among the small minority of rental assistance recipients who are not elderly, disabled, already working, or subject to work requirements under another program, but they may also result in homelessness or other severe hardship for families that cannot find jobs,” Fisher wrote in a 2010 Center on Budget and Policies Priorities report titled “Sharp Expansion of HUD’s MTW Demonstration Raises Serious Concerns.” He said it was difficult to determine whether subsequent changes in employment, hardship, or costs stem from the work requirement or other factors, such as economic conditions or changes in the agency’s caseload.

WASHINGTON AREA

COMMUNITY CONNECTION

Suitland, Md. Church Fun Day

The Philadelphia Open Door Church, 3900 James Street, will hold a Community Fun Day on July 11 from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. The day will feature food, prizes, health screenings, race cars, a moon bounce and more.

Washington, D.C.

D.C. Commission: ‘Dance With Me’

The D.C. Commission on the Arts and Humanities will hold a “Dance With Me” event at Gateway DC, 2700 Martin Luther King Jr. Ave. S.E. on July 17 from 7:00 p.m. – 10:30 p.m. The event will include performances by 1960’s Doo-Wop group The Jewels and Brencore Allstars with a tribute to Motown and an Interactive Hand Dance workshop with the National Hand Dance Association. The cost is free. There will be an open dance floor and lawn chairs welcomed. For more information, contact Ebony Brown at ebony.brown@dc.gov or by phone 202-724-5613.

Cancer Research Benefit Concert Frank McComb will take part in a benefit concert for Cancer Research Institute at the Howard Theatre, 620 T St N.W. on July 21 at 8 p.m. The Howard concert will be McComb’s first visit to the venue since being invited by the late George Duke to perform for the theatre’s grand reopening event on April 10, 2012. Also joining Frank at the Howard Theatre will be Crystal Aikin who is enjoying

a surge in popularity thanks to being the top prize winner in Season One of BET’s gospel music program ‘Sunday Best’ blessing all with her song, “Even Me.” She will be doing her own set and, though she’s never met Frank before, plans to prepare one duet to make both nights extra special. Doors will open at 6 p.m. Tickets cost $20-$45. For more information on Frank McComb, please contact: J’ai St. Laurent-Smyth, Inque Public Relations – 732-254-0607 or email inquepr@comcast.net / inquepr@ gmail.com

CBCF Legislative Conference

This year concerned citizens, leaders, students and legislators from across the

country will visit our nation’s capital for our 45th Annual Legislative Conference from September r 16 – September 20. The theme is “With Liberty and Justice for All.” As we approach nearly a half century of hosting the leading policy conference on issues impacting African-Americans and the global Black community, we are going to examine the disparities that stifle our communities. ALC will also identify strategies to close the gap in education, economic empowerment, health, social justice and more so that African-Americans feel included in the promise of “liberty and justice for all.” Early registration for the conference is open. For more information, visit http://www.cbcfinc.org/alc/. Register at http://www.cbcfinc.org/alc/registration/.

Hunters Woods Fellowship House Wait List Opening Apply for one-bedroom apartments in the non-profit community providing subsidized housing to low-and-moderate income senior or disabled households. Applications are being accepted Tuesdays-Thursdays from 9 a.m.-2 p.m. • Must be 62+ or disabled • Have income under 80% of the area median income Call 703-620-4450 or visit us to apply Hunters Woods Fellowship House 2231 Colts Neck Road | Reston, VA 20191 For additional information or to print an application package, visit www.fellowshipsquare.org/hunters-woods

MANAGE YOUR BUDGET WITH TOOLS ON MY ACCOUNT

Online energy management tools help you understand your energy use. My Account shows your energy use in easy-to-read charts so that you can conveniently manage your energy use. With information on My Account, you can see where you are using the most energy, so that you can make changes and save on your monthly bill. Even making a few small changes around your home, like unplugging phone chargers after your phone is fully charged or turning off unnecessary lights when you leave a room, can add up to savings on your bill. Start saving today with My Account at pepco.com/energytools. If you don’t have access to a computer or if you prefer to receive this information over the phone, call us at 1-855-NEW-METER.

With the bill to date feature on My Account, you can manage your budget and energy use by seeing how much energy you’ve used and your projected bill at any time during the month.

The Afro-American, July 11, 2015 - July 17, 2015 Photos by Rob Roberts

Lady Juanita Sims Doty, Lady Dr. Barbara L. Shaw, Lady Audrie Lawton and Lady Karla L. McCullough Teen Joshua White

Patricia A. Davis

Lady Audrie Lawton

Lady Sandra Clark

Teen Carmen Wilson, president, Dale City, Prince William County Chapter

Brig. Gen. (Ret.)Julia J. Cleckley US Army

Introduction of the Mayor by Lady Joy Holland

Sonya Amartey

Lady Jacquelyn Heath Parker

Edward R. Harrison; Lady Brenda Dodd; Lady Brenda KellyNellum and Lady Drema Lee Woldman

Fred Tryon

Invocation by TTA President LeZaire Reese

Serenity Steele

D.C. Mayor Muriel Bowser

Dianna Davis

Top Ladies of Distinction National Convention

Mary Grant Top Ladies of Distinction members, guests and honorees

The Top Ladies of Distinction (TLOD) held their 39th Annual National Convention from June 24-June 29 at the Hyatt Regency Washington Hotel on Capitol Hill. Both ladies and teens, from the Top Teens of America groups within each chapter, amongst several dignitaries, including D.C. Mayor Muriel Bowser, participated in programs throughout the convention. Founder Lady Ozell Dean and past National Presidents: Lady Faye Bryant, Lady Jacquelyn Parker, Lady Dorothy Allen Chimney, Lady Peggy Lewis LeCompte, and Lady Jackie L. Pope along with the current National President Lady Audrie Lawton attended the national event.

Lady Audrie Lawton, national president and The New 13th National President Lady Drema Lee Woldman

Top Teens of America Speakerâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Contest participants David Earley, Josef Sorrells, Serenity Steele and Dianna Davis

The Razazz Band

Jordan Young, Kenedi Wright, Morgan Jones, David Early III, Tyrera Pratt and Leson Ebson

Gerraâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; Gistand and LeZaire Reese

Posting of the Colors

Top Ladies of Distinction members and guests Top Ladies of Distinction

Asa Starling, Edgar Brookins, LaTrina Antoine, founding member Ozell Dean, Denise Rolark Barnes, Krysta Jones and Brenda Kelley Nellum

Former national presidents and Top Ladies of Distinction honorary member

Lady Hazel M. Cameron, Lady Kendra Gillespie and Lady Dorene Hurt

Derik Wusply and Destini Manuel

LifeTime Achievement Award recipient Lady Ozell Dean and Lady Audrie Lawton

July 11, 2015 - July 17, 2015, The Afro-American

ARTS & CULTURE

Shades of Face/Off in Brain Transplant Sci-Fi Thriller Kam Williams Special to the AFRO In the 1997 thriller Face/Off, an FBI agent underwent a face transplant in order to crack a terrorist plot. It’s hard not to think of that film while watching Self/Less which revolves around another radical surgical procedure, namely, the transplantation of a cancer patient’s brain inside the cranium of a healthy individual. The picture stars Sir Ben Kingsley as Damian Hale, a terminally-ill, business tycoon who doesn’t want to die. His prayers are answered when a mad scientist (Matthew Goode) surfaces who is willing, for a cool quarterbillion dollars, to transfer his mind into the head of a test tube human surrogate hatched in a lab. The only catch is that Damian can’t tell anyone about the experimental operation, which means he’ll have to abandon any hopes of reconciling with his long-estranged daughter, Claire (Michelle Dockery). Nevertheless, he signs on the dotted line, enters the futuristic operating room and eventually arouses from anesthesia having shed his sickly shell for a late model upgrade with “that new body smell.” While convalescing, Damian 2.0 reads his own obituary in the paper but dutifully steers clear of contacting any friends or relatives to avoid the risk of raising suspicion. Instead, he merely marvels at his miraculous recovery. Before discharging his grateful patient, Dr. Albright gives him a new identity and a week’s supply of anti-rejection pills. Returning to the real world, suddenly handsome Damian becomes practically giddy between his unexpected prowess on the basketball court and his impressive physique’s ability to turn heads. What the reincarnated real estate magnate doesn’t know, however, is that the brain transplant wasn’t really an installation job into a recently harvested donor. The plot thickens upon the discovery that his alter ego Edward Kittner (Ryan Reynolds) not only actually once existed but left behind a wife (Natalie Martinez) and 6 year-old daughter (Jaynee-Lynne Kinchen). Directed by Tarsem Singh (The Cell), Self/Less is sufficiently compelling to recommend highly, even though it suffers severely from a lack of originality.

tumbler.com

Ryan Reynolds

Besides the aforementioned shades of Face/Off, this derivative adventure borrows a number of ideas from Seconds, the similarly-themed, 1966 sci-fi classic. An improbable, if thought-provoking mind-bender built on a house of cards that holds up only to the extent you’re willing to go along with its preposterous premise. Very Good (3 stars) Rated PG-13 for profanity, sexuality and violence Running time: 117 minutes Distributor: Focus Features To see a trailer for Self/Less, visit: https://www.youtube.com/ watch?v=Mc4sz6neHDs

CHECK LOCAL LISTINGS FOR THEATERS AND SHOWTIMES

CLASSIFIED

Sma

l ad

Washington

AUTOMOBILE DONATIONS DONATE AUTOS, TRUCKS, RV’S. LUTHERAN MISSION SOCIETY. Your donation helps local families with food, clothing, shelter, counseling. Tax deductible. MVA License #W1044. 410-636-0123 or www. LutheranMissionSociety

BUSINESS SERVICES Drive traffic to your business and reach 4.1 million readers with just one phone call & one bill. See your business ad in 104 newspapers in Maryland, Delaware and the District of Columbia for just $495.00 per ad placement. The value of newspapers advertising HAS NEVER BEEN STRONGER.... call 1-855-721-6332 x 6 or 301-852-8933 today to place your ad before 4.1 million readers. Email Wanda Smith @ wsmith@mddcpress. com or visit our website at www.mddcpress.com.

BUSINESS OPPORTUNITIES Place your ad today in both The Baltimore Sun and The Washington Post newspapers, along with 10 other daily newspapers five days per week. For just pennies on the dollar reach 2.5 million readers through the Daily Classified Connection Network in 3 states: CALL TODAY; SPACE is VERY LIMITED; CALL 1-855-721-6332 x 6 or 301-852-8933 email wsmith@mddcpress.com or visit our website at www. mddcpress.com ATTN: COMPUTER WORK. Work from anywhere 24/7. Up to $1,500 Part-Time to $7,500/mo. Full Time Training provided. Www.WorkServices25. com

EDUCATIONALTRAINING AVIATION Grads work with JetBlue, Boeing, Delta and others- start here with hands on training for FAA certification. Financial aid if qualified. Call Aviation Institute of Maintenance 866823-6729 MEDICAL CAREER! Train at Home for a career processing Medical Billing & Insurance Claims! NO EXPERIENCE NEEDED! Call CTI for details! HS Diploma/GED & Computer/Internet needed. 1-877-649-2671.

FURNITURE CLEANING Leap into spring with the use of our full-service furniture upholstery cleaning team! Call Upholstery Care USA today-410-6228759-Baltimore or 202534-7768- DC & MD. As industry leaders, we can make your spring cleaning a breeze. Visit us at www.upholsterycareusa.com.

HELP WANTED: SALES EARN $500 A DAY: Insurance Agents Needed * Leads, No Cold Calls * Commis-

HOMES FOR SALE Call 302-545-0550 TODAY to see Completely Redesigned 4 Bedroom Single Family Home in LEWES, DELAWARE; Open Floor Plan features Living Room with CATHERAL CEILING; 2.5 Baths with TONS of Amenities; Close to Beaches & Convenient Shopping - $285,000

MEDICAL SUPPLIES Need Interior/Exterior Stairlifts! Raymond Maule & Son offers STRAIGHT or Curved ACORN Stairlifts; Call Angel & Kathy TODAY 888-353-8878; Also available Exterior Porchlifts; Avoid Unsightly Long Ramps; Save $200.00.

LAND FOR SALE SUMMER GETAWAY BARGAIN CABIN AND 3+ ACRES NEAR LAKE & PARK $59,900 Perfect cabin shell on level park like Parcel with easy access to town and Lake, shopping. Short drive to DC Utilities on site, new perc. Ez financing CALL OWNER 800888-1262

SERVS./MISC. Want a larger footprint in the marketplace consider advertising in the MDDC Display 2x2 or 2x4 Advertising Network. Reach 3.6 million readers every week by placing your ad in 82 newspapers in Maryland, Delaware and the District of Columbia. With just one phone call, your business and/ or product will be seen by 3.6 million readers HURRY....space is limited, CALL TODAY!! Call 1-855-721-6332 x 6 or 301 852-8933 email wsmith@mddcpress. com or visit our website at www.mddcpress.com

VACATION RENTALS OCEAN CITY, MARYLAND. Best selection of affordable rentals. Full/ partial weeks. Call for FREE brochure. Open daily. Holiday Resort Services. 1-800638-2102. Online reservations: www. holidayoc.com

•Your History • Your Community • Your News

EBIDLOCAL.COM ABANDONED SAFE DEPOSIT BOX ONLINE AUCTION - per DE law national bank client selling contents, “As-Is”/”Where-Is”, No Warranties, Info Online: EBIDLOCAL.com (vaf#777)

AFRO.COM

AUCTION

Paid Daily * Lifetime Renewals * Complete Training * Health & Dental Insurance * Life License Required. Call 1-888-713-6020

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

1 Col. Inch Up to TYPESET: Tue Jul 07 11:08:30 EDT 2015 TYPESET: Tue Jul 07 11:09:29 EDTTue 2015 TYPESET: Jul 07 11:09:10 EDT 2015 LEGAL NOTICES 20 Words Superior Court of the District of District of Columbia PROBATE DIVISION Washington, D.C. 20001-2131 Administration No. 2015ADM765 Joseph T. Smith Jr. Decedent NOTICE OF APPOINTMENT, NOTICE TO CREDITORS AND NOTICE TO UNKNOWN HEIRS Rita Davis-Smith, whose address is 4720 Bass Place SE, Washington, DC 20019 was appointed personal representative of the estate of Joseph T. Smith, Jr. who died on May 15, 2015 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., 515 5th Street, N.W., 3rd Floor Washington, D.C. 20001, on or before January 10, 2016. 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 January 10, 2016, 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 first publication shall so inform the Register of Wills, including name, address and relationship. Date of Publication: July 10, 2015 Name of newspaper: Afro-American Washington Law Reporter Rita Davis-Smith Personal Representative TRUE TEST COPY REGISTER OF WILLS

Superior Court of the District of District of Columbia PROBATE DIVISION Washington, D.C. 20001-2131 Administration No. 2015ADM728 Mary Ann Wiggins Decedent NOTICE OF APPOINTMENT, NOTICE TO CREDITORS AND NOTICE TO UNKNOWN HEIRS Theresa R. James, whose address is 1201 Potomac Avenue, SE, Washington, DC 20003 was appointed personal representative of the estate of Mary Ann Wiggins, who died on February 9, 2015 without a will, and will serve without Court supervision. All unknown heirs and heirs whose where-abouts are unknown shall enter their appearance in this proceeding. Objections to such appointment shall be filed with the Register of Wills, D.C., 515 5th Street, N.W., 3rd Floor Washington, D.C. 20001, on or before January 10, 2016. 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 January 10, 2016, 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 first publication shall so inform the Register of Wills, including name, address and relationship. Date of Publication: July 10, 2015 Name of newspaper: Afro-American Washington Law Reporter Theresa R. James Personal Representative TRUE TEST COPY REGISTER OF WILLS

Superior Court of the District of District of Columbia PROBATE DIVISION Washington, D.C. 20001-2131 Administration No. 2015ADM745 Warren E. Jefferson Decedent NOTICE OF APPOINTMENT, NOTICE TO CREDITORS AND NOTICE TO UNKNOWN HEIRS Mary Ann Penny Jefferson, whose address is 140 35th Street NE, Washington, DC 20019 was appointed personal representative of the estate of Warren E. Jefferson, who died on May 1, 2015 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 (or to the probate of decedent´s will) shall be filed with the Register of Wills, D.C., 515 5th Street, N.W., 3rd Floor Wa s h i n g t o n , D . C . 20001, on or before January 10, 2016. 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 January 10, 2016, 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 first publication shall so inform the Register of Wills, including name, address and relationship. Date of Publication: July 10, 2015 Name of newspaper: Afro-American Washington Law Reporter Mary Ann Penny Jefferson Personal Representative

07/10, 07/17,Tue 07/24/15 TYPESET: TYPESET: Jul 07 11:05:19 EDT Tue 2015Jun 23 10:32:11 EDT 2015 TRUE TEST COPY 07/10, 07/17, 07/24/15 REGISTER OF WILLS Superior Court of Superior Court of 07/10, 07/174, 07/24/15 the District of the District of TYPESET: Tue Jul 07 District of Columbia District of Columbia PROBATE DIVISION PROBATE DIVISION Washington, D.C. Washington, D.C. Superior Court of 20001-2131 20001-2131 the District of Administration No. Administration No. District of Columbia 2015ADM427 2015ADM731 PROBATE DIVISION William M. Munn John L. Powell Washington, D.C. AKA Decedent 20001-2131 William Munn NOTICE OF Administration No. Decedent APPOINTMENT, 2015ADM33 William A. Bland, Esq NOTICE TO Tyler C. Melton 1140 Connecticut Ave CREDITORS Decedent NW AND NOTICE TO Johnny M Riddick, Esq #1100 UNKNOWN HEIRS 505 Capitol Court, NE Washington, DC 20036 Weldon T. Powell, whose Suite 100 Attorney address is 5128 3rd NW Washington, DC 20002 NOTICE OF Washington, DC 20011 Attorney APPOINTMENT, wasappointed personal NOTICE OF NOTICE TO representative of the APPOINTMENT, CREDITORS estate of John L. Powell, AND NOTICE TO NOTICE TO who died on March 24, UNKNOWN HEIRS CREDITORS 2015 without a will, and Kimbley Tutt, William AND NOTICE TO will serve without Court Pryor and Walter Munn UNKNOWN HEIRS supervision. All unknown Reginald C. Melton, whose addresses are heirs and heirs whose 8106 Veltri Drive, Oxon whose address is 3416 where-abouts are un- Dix Street, NE, WashingHill, MD 20744; 1105 known shall enter their ton, DC 20019 was apKennecbec Street #3D , a p p e a r a n c e i n t h i s pointed personal repreOxon Hill, MD 20745; proceeding. Objections sentative of the estate of 4319 Brooks Street NE, to such appointment Tyler C. Melton, who died Washington 20019, were shall be filed with the on August 26, 2014 withappointed personal reRegister of Wills, D.C., out a will, and will serve presentatives of the 515 5th Street, N.W., 3rd without Court superviestate of William M. Floor Washington, D.C. sion. All unknown heirs Munn AKA William 20001, on or before a n d h e i r s w h o s e Munn, who died on December 26, 2015. whereabouts are unDecember 14, 2014 withClaims against the de- known shall enter their out a will, and will serve cedent shall be pre- a p p e a r a n c e i n t h i s without Court supervision. All unknown heirs sented to the underproceeding. Objections and heirs whose signed with a copy to the to such appointment whereabouts are unRegister of Wills or filed shall be filed with the known shall enter their with the Register of Wills Register of Wills, D.C., appearance in this with a copy to the under- 515 5th Street, N.W., 3rd proceeding. Objections signed, on or before Floor Washington, D.C. to such appointment (or December 26, 2015, or 20001, on or before to the probate of debe forever barred. Per- J a n u a r y 1 0 , 2 0 1 6 . cedent´s will) shall be sons believed to be heirs Claims against the defiled with the Register of or legatees of the decedent shall be preWills, D.C., 515 5th cedent who do not re- sented to the underStreet, N.W., 3rd Floor ceive a copy of this notice signed with a copy to the Wa s h i n g t o n , D . C . by mail within 25 days of Register of Wills or filed 20001, on or before its first publication shall with the Register of Wills January 10, 2016. so inform the Register of with a copy to the underClaims against the deWills, including name, signed, on or before cedent shall be preaddress and relation- January 10, 2016, or be sented to the undership. forever barred. Persons signed with a copy to the Date of Publication: believed to be heirs or Register of Wills or filed June 26, 2015 legatees of the decedent with the Register of Wills Name of newspaper: who do not receive a with a copy to the underAfro-American copy of this notice by mail signed, on or before Washington within 25 days of its first January 10, 2016, or be Law Reporter forever barred. Persons publication shall so inWeldon T. Powell form the Register of believed to be heirs or Personal legatees of the decedent Wills, including name, Representative address and relationwho do not receive a copy of this notice by mail ship. TRUE TEST COPY within 25 days of its first Date of Publication: REGISTER OF WILLS publication shall so inJuly 10, 2015 form the Register of Name of newspaper: 06/26, 07/03, 07/10/15 Wills, including name, Afro-American address and relationWashington ship. Law Reporter Date of Publication: Reginald C. Melton January 10, 2015 Personal Name of newspaper: Representative Afro-American Washington TRUE TEST COPY Law Reporter REGISTER OF WILLS Kimbley Tutt William Pryor Walter Munn Personal Representatives TRUE TEST COPY REGISTER OF WILLS 07/10, 07/17, 07/24/15

SUPPORT OUR ADVERTISERS

07/10, 07/17, 07/24/15

SUBSCRIBE TODAY

202-332-0080 410-554-8200 Buy it • Sell it Swap it • Lease it Rent it • Hire it

results AFRO Classified minimum ad rate is $26.54 per col. inch (an inch consists of up to 20 words). Mail in your ad on form below along with CHECK or MONEY ORDER to: WASHINGTON AFRO-AMERICAN CO. 1917 Benning Road, N.E. Washington, D.C. 20002-4723 Attn: Clsf. Adv. Dept.

10.

11.

12.

13.

14.

15.

16.

17.

18.

19.

20.

NAME: ________________________________________________ ADDRESS: _____________________________________________ PHONE NO.:____________________________________________ TYPESET: Tue Jun 23 10:31:51 EDT 2015 CLASSIFICATION: ______________________________________ Superior (Room, Apt., House, etc.) Court of the District of District of Columbia TYPESET: Tue Jun 23 10:31:27 EDT 2015 INSERTION DATE:_________________ PROBATE DIVISION

Washington, D.C. 20001-2131 Superior Court of Administration No. the District of 2015ADM682 District of Columbia Leon V. Thompson, Sr. PROBATE DIVISION DecedentLegal Advertising Rates D.C. Washington, NOTICE OF 20001-2131 Effective October 1, 2008 APPOINTMENT, Administration No. TYPESET: Tue Jun 23 10:31:07 NOTICE TO 2015ADM699 CREDITORS Mary L. Pegues AND NOTICE TO PROBATE DIVISION AKA UNKNOWN HEIRS Superior Court of Leon V. Thompson,(Estates) Jr., Mary Pegues the District of whose address is 1015 Decedent District of Columbia 202-332-0080 NOTICE OF Kings Heather Drive, PROBATE DIVISION APPOINTMENT, Bowie, Maryland 20721 , Washington, D.C. PROBATE NOTICES NOTICE TO was appointed personal 20001-2131 CREDITORS representative of the Administration No. AND NOTICE TO e s t a t e o f L e o n V. 2015ADM696 a. Order Nisi $ 60 per insertion $180.00 per 3 weeks UNKNOWN HEIRS Thompson, Sr., who died John Fields Joyce C. Pegues, whose Decedent b. Small Estates (single $ 60 per insertion on publication February 5, 2014 without a will, and will address is 6401 7th Robert M. McCarthy c. Notice to Creditorsserve without Court su- Street, NW, Washington, Esq pervision. All unknown 1. Domestic $ 60 per insertion per 3West weeks DC 20012 was appointed $180.00 4405 East Hwy heirs and heirs whose personal representative Suite 201 2. Foreign $ 60 per insertion $180.00 per 3 weeks whereabouts are un- of the estate of Mary L. Bethesda, MD 20814 known shall enter $their d. Escheated Estates 60 per insertion per 6 weeks Pegues, who died on $360.00 Attorney appearance in this February 7, 2015 with a e. Standard Probates $125.00 NOTICE OF proceeding. Objections will, and will serve withAPPOINTMENT, to such appointment out Court supervision. All NOTICE TO shall be filed with the unknown heirs and heirs CREDITORS CIVIL Register of Wills, D.C.,NOTICES whose where-abouts are AND NOTICE TO 515 5th Street, N.W., 3rd unknown shall enter their $ 80.00 a. Name Changes 202-879-1133 UNKNOWN HEIRS Floor Washington, D.C. a p p e a r a n c e i n t h i s Fields, whose ad20001, on or before proceeding. Objections $ Vivian b. Real Property 200.00 December 26, 2015. to such appointment (or dress is 1407 E St., SE, Washington, DC 20003 Claims against the de- to the probate of dewas appointed personal cedent shallFAMILY be pre- COURT cedent´s will) shall be sented to the under- filed with the Register of representative of the estate of John Fields, signed with a copy to the 202-879-1212 Wills, D.C., 515 5th who died on March 26, Register of Wills or filed Street, N.W., 3rd Floor DOMESTIC RELATIONS 2014 without a will, and with the Register of Wills W a s h i n g t o n , D . C . will serve without Court with a copy to the202-879-0157 under20001, on or before 11:08:13 EDT 2015 supervision. All unknown signed, on or before December 26, 2015, or December 26, 2015. heirs and heirs whose Claims against the dewhereabouts are unbe forever barred. Pera. Absent Defendant 150.00shall enter their sons believed to be heirs cedent shall be pre- $ known sented to the underappearance in this or legatees of the deb. Absolute Divorce $ 150.00 cedent who do not re- signed with a copy to the proceeding. Objections to such appointment ceive a copy of this notice Register of Wills or filed $150.00 c. Custody Divorce by mail within 25 days of with the Register of Wills shall be filed with the its first publication shall with a copy to the under- Register of Wills, D.C., on or before 515 5th Street, N.W., 3rd inform the Register of signed, To place your ad, so call 1-800-237-6892, ext. 262, Public Notices $50.00 & up Wills, including name, December 26, 2015, or Floor Washington, D.C. be forever barred. Per- 20001, address and relationon or before depending on size, Baltimore Legal Notices are $24.84 per inch. sons believed to be heirs December 26, 2015. ship. 1-800 (AFRO) 892 or legatees of the de- Claims against the deDate of Publication: who do not re- cedent shall be preJune 26, 2015 For Proof of Publication, pleasecedent call 1-800-237-6892, ext. 244 ceive a copy of this notice sented to the underName of newspaper: Afro-American by mail within 25 days of signed with a copy to the Washington its first publication shall Register of Wills or filed Law Reporter so inform the Register of with the Register of Wills TYPESET: Tue Jun 23 10:31:51 EDT 2015 LEGAL NOTICES Leon V. Thompson, Jr. Wills, including name, with a copy to the underPersonal address and relation- signed, on or before Representative ship. December 26, 2015, or Superior Court of Date of Publication: be forever barred. PerTRUE TEST COPY the District of May 26, 2015 sons believed to be heirs REGISTER OF WILLS District of Columbia Name of newspaper: or legatees of the dePROBATE DIVISION Afro-American cedent who do not reTYPESET: Tue Jun 23 10:31:27 EDT 2015 06/26, 07/03, 07/10/15 Washington, D.C. Washington ceive a copy of this notice 20001-2131 Law Reporter by mail within 25 days of Administration No. Joyce C. Pegues its first publication shall Superior Court of 2015ADM682 Personal so inform the Register of the District of Leon V. Thompson, Sr. Representative Wills, including name, District of Columbia Decedent address and relationPROBATE DIVISION NOTICE OF ship. TRUE TEST COPY Washington, D.C. APPOINTMENT, Date of Publication: REGISTER OF WILLS 20001-2131 TYPESET: Tue Jun 23 10:31:07 NOTICE TO June 26, EDT 2015 2015 Administration No. CREDITORS Name of newspaper: 06/26, 07/03, 07/10/15 2015ADM699 AND NOTICE TO Afro-American Mary L. Pegues UNKNOWN HEIRS Washington Superior Court of Leon V. Thompson, Jr., AKA Law Reporter the District of whose address is 1015 Mary Pegues Vivian Fields District of Columbia Decedent Kings Heather Drive, Personal PROBATE DIVISION NOTICE OF Bowie, Maryland 20721 , Representative Washington, D.C. APPOINTMENT, was appointed personal 20001-2131 NOTICE TO representative of the TRUE TEST COPY Administration No. CREDITORS e s t a t e o f L e o n V. REGISTER OF WILLS 2015ADM696 AND NOTICE TO Thompson, Sr., who died John Fields UNKNOWN HEIRS on February 5, 2014 06/26, 07/03, 07/10/15 Decedent without a will, and will Joyce C. Pegues, whose Robert M. McCarthy address is 6401 7th serve without Court suEsq pervision. All unknown Street, NW, Washington, 4405 East West Hwy heirs and heirs whose DC 20012 was appointed Suite 201 whereabouts are un- personal representative Bethesda, MD 20814 known shall enter their of the estate of Mary L. Attorney Pegues, who died on appearance in this NOTICE OF February 7, 2015 with a proceeding. Objections APPOINTMENT, to such appointment will, and will serve withNOTICE TO shall be filed with the out Court supervision. All CREDITORS Register of Wills, D.C., unknown heirs and heirs AND NOTICE TO 515 5th Street, N.W., 3rd whose where-abouts are UNKNOWN HEIRS Floor Washington, D.C. unknown shall enter their Vivian Fields, whose ada p p e a r a n c e i n t h i s 20001, on or before dress is 1407 E St., SE, December 26, 2015. proceeding. Objections Washington, DC 20003 Claims against the de- to such appointment (or was appointed personal cedent shall be pre- to the probate of derepresentative of the sented to the under- cedent´s will) shall be estate of John Fields, filed with the Register of signed with a copy to the who died on March 26, Wills, D.C., 515 5th Register of Wills or filed 2014 without a will, and with the Register of Wills Street, N.W., 3rd Floor will serve without Court with a copy to the under- W a s h i n g t o n , D . C . supervision. All unknown signed, on or before 20001, on or before heirs and heirs whose December 26, 2015, or December 26, 2015. whereabouts are unClaims against the debe forever barred. Perknown shall enter their cedent shall be presons believed to be heirs appearance in this or legatees of the de- sented to the underproceeding. Objections cedent who do not re- signed with a copy to the to such appointment ceive a copy of this notice Register of Wills or filed shall be filed with the with the Register of Wills by mail within 25 days of Register of Wills, D.C., with a copy to the underits first publication shall 515 5th Street, N.W., 3rd so inform the Register of signed, on or before Floor Washington, D.C. Wills, including name, December 26, 2015, or 20001, on or before address and relation- be forever barred. PerDecember 26, 2015. sons believed to be heirs ship. Claims against the deor legatees of the deDate of Publication: cedent shall be precedent who do not reJune 26, 2015 sented to the underceive a copy of this notice Name of newspaper: signed with a copy to the by mail within 25 days of Afro-American Register of Wills or filed its first publication shall Washington with the Register of Wills so inform the Register of Law Reporter with a copy to the underWills, including name, Leon V. Thompson, Jr. signed, on or before address and relationPersonal December 26, 2015, or Representative ship. be forever barred. PerDate of Publication: sons believed to be heirs May 26, 2015 TRUE TEST COPY or legatees of the deName of newspaper: REGISTER OF WILLS cedent who do not reAfro-American

WASHINGTON AFRO-AMERICAN NEWSPAPER

You know you’re in the know... When you read the AFRO!

AD NETWORK

SAMPLE

A F R O

C2 The Afro-American, July 11, 2015 - July 17, 2015

July 11, 2015 - July 17, 2015, The Afro-American

TYPESET: Tue Jul 07 11:07:48 EDT 2015 TYPESET: Tue Jul 07 11:07:03 TYPESET: EDT Tue 2015Jun 23 10:32:35 TYPESET: EDT Tue 2015 Jul 07 11:06:23 TYPESET: EDT Tue 2015 Jun 23 10:30:24 TYPESET: EDT Tue 2015 Jul 07 11:05:38 EDT 2015 LEGAL NOTICES LEGAL NOTICES LEGAL NOTICES LEGAL NOTICES LEGAL NOTICES LEGAL NOTICES

TRUE TEST COPY REGISTER OF WILLS

Superior Court of the District of District of Columbia PROBATE DIVISION Washington, D.C. 20001-2131 Administration No. 2015ADM761 J.H. Glaspie AKA James Hampton Glaspie Decedent NOTICE OF APPOINTMENT, NOTICE TO CREDITORS AND NOTICE TO UNKNOWN HEIRS Wanda L. Waddy, whose address is 5807 5th St. NE, Washington, DC 20011, was appointed personal representative of the estate of J.H. Glaspie AKA James Hampton Glaspie, who died on January 31, 2015 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 (or to the probate of decedent´s will) shall be filed with the Register of Wills, D.C., 515 5th Street, N.W., 3rd Floor Wa s h i n g t o n , D . C . 20001, on or before January 10, 2016. 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 January 10, 2016, 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 first publication shall so inform the Register of Wills, including name, address and relationship. Date of Publication: July 10, 2015 Name of newspaper: Afro-American Washington Law Reporter Wanda L. Waddy Personal Representative TRUE TEST COPY REGISTER OF WILLS

TYPESET: Jul 07 11:07:24 EDT 2015 07/10, 07/17,Tue 07/24/15 07/10, 07/17,Tue 07/24/15 TYPESET: Jun 23

Superior Court of the District of District of Columbia PROBATE DIVISION Washington, D.C. 20001-2131 Administration No. 2015ADM700 Carolyn Lee Decedent NOTICE OF APPOINTMENT, NOTICE TO CREDITORS AND NOTICE TO UNKNOWN HEIRS Anthony Lee, whose address is 1036 Barnaby Terr SE , Washington, DC 20032, was appointed personal representative of the estate of Carolyn Lee, who died on March 16, 2015 without a will, and will serve without Court supervision. All unknown heirs and heirs whose where-abouts are unknown shall enter their appearance in this proceeding. Objections to such appointment shall be filed with the Register of Wills, D.C., 515 5th Street, N.W., 3rd Floor Washington, D.C. 20001, on or before December 26, 2015. 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 December 26, 2015, 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 first publication shall so inform the Register of Wills, including name, address and relationship. Date of Publication: June 26, 2015 Name of newspaper: Afro-American Washington Law Reporter Anthony Lee Personal Representative

Superior Court of the District of District of Columbia PROBATE DIVISION Washington, D.C. 20001-2131 Administration No. 2015ADM743 Florine J. Kellogg Decedent Paul D. Hunt 717 D Street NW Suite 300 Washington, DC 20004 Attorney NOTICE OF APPOINTMENT, NOTICE TO CREDITORS AND NOTICE TO UNKNOWN HEIRS Ti o m b e M J e f f r i e s , whose address is 5449 16th Ave., #104, Hyattsville, MD 20782, was appointed personal representative of the estate of Florine J. Kellogg, who died on May 10, 2015 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 (or to the probate of decedent´s will) shall be filed with the Register of Wills, D.C., 515 5th Street, N.W., 3rd Floor Washington, D.C. 20001, on or before January 10, 2016. 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 January 10, 2016, 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 first publication shall so inform the Register of Wills, including name, address and relationship. Date of Publication: July 10, 2015 Name of newspaper: TRUE TEST COPY Afro-American REGISTER OF WILLS Washington Law Reporter 06/26 , 07/03, 07/10/15 J. Kellogg TYPESET: Tue Jul 07 11:06:45 Florine EDT 2015 Personal Representative

Superior Court of the District of District of Columbia PROBATE 10:30:46 EDT DIVISION 2015 Washington, D.C. 20001-2131 Administration No. 2015ADM205 Harriett Rattler Decedent Ashok K. Batra, Esq 14509 Cantrell Road Silver Spring, MD 20905 Attorney NOTICE OF APPOINTMENT, NOTICE TO CREDITORS AND NOTICE TO UNKNOWN HEIRS Ashok K. Batra, Esq, whose address is 14509 Cantrell Road, Silver Spring, MD 20905 was appointed personal representative of the estate of Harriett Rattler, who died on October 21, 2014 without a will, and will serve with Court supervision. All unknown heirs and heirs whose whereabouts are unknown shall enter their appearance in this proceeding. Objections to such appointment (or to the probate of decedent´s will) shall be filed with the Register of Wills, D.C., 515 5th Street, N.W., 3rd Floor Wa s h i n g t o n , D . C . 20001, on or before January 10, 2016. 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 January 10, 2016, 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 first publication shall so inform the Register of Wills, including name, address and relationship. Date of Publication: July 10, 2015 Name of newspaper: Afro-American Washington Law Reporter Ashok K. Batra Personal Representative

TRUE TEST COPY REGISTER OF WILLS

Superior Court of the District of District of Columbia PROBATE DIVISION Washington, D.C. 20001-2131 Administration No. 2015ADM704 Carolyn M. Johnson Decedent Thomas H. Queen, Esq 7961 Eastern Avenue Suite 304 Silver Spring, MD 20910 Attorney NOTICE OF APPOINTMENT, NOTICE TO CREDITORS AND NOTICE TO UNKNOWN HEIRS Jeffrey Johnson, whose address is 5712 8th Street, NW, Washington, DC 20011 was appointed personal representative of the estate of Carolyn M. Johnson, who died on May 5, 2013 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., 515 5th Street, N.W., 3rd Floor Washington, D.C. 20001, on or before December 26, 2015. 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 December 26, 2015, 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 first publication shall so inform the Register of Wills, including name, address and relationship. Date of Publication: June 26, 2015 Name of newspaper: Afro-American Washington Law Reporter Jeffrey Johnson Personal Representative TRUE TEST COPY REGISTER OF WILLS

TYPESET: Jun 23 10:29:14 EDTCOPY 2015 06/26, 07/03,Tue 07/10/15 TRUE TEST

07/10, 07/17,Tue 07/24/15 TYPESET: Jul 07 11:08:30 EDT 2015

Superior Court of the District of District of Columbia PROBATE DIVISION Washington, D.C. 20001-2131 Administration No. 2015ADM729 Luvenia E Winston Decedent Sylvia L. Adams at Law 2407 Kegwood Lane Bowie, MD 20715 Attorney NOTICE OF APPOINTMENT, NOTICE TO CREDITORS AND NOTICE TO UNKNOWN HEIRS Raymond L. Winston, whose address is 831 3rd Street, NE, Washington, DC 20002 was appointed personal representative of the estate of Luvenia E Winston, who died on November 25, 2013 without a will, and will serve with 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., 515 5th Street, N.W., 3rd Floor Washington, D.C. 20001, on or before January 10, 2016. 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 January 10, 2016, 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 first publication shall so inform the Register of Wills, including name, address and relationship. Date of Publication: July 10, 2015 Name of newspaper: Afro-American Washington Law Reporter Raymond L. Winston Personal Representative

Superior Court of the District of District of Columbia PROBATE DIVISION Washington, D.C. 20001-2131 Administration No. 2014ADM1177 Jean L. Jordan AKA Jean Lash Jordan Decedent NOTICE OF APPOINTMENT, NOTICE TO CREDITORS AND NOTICE TO UNKNOWN HEIRS Neenah Jordan Kelliebrew, whose address 817 57th Place, Fairmount Heights, MD 20743 was appointed personal representative of the estate of Jean L. Jordan AKA Jean Lash Jordan, who died on September 30, 2014 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 (or to the probate of decedent´s will) shall be filed with the Register of Wills, D.C., 515 5th Street, N.W., 3rd Floor Wa s h i n g t o n , D . C . 20001, on or before December 26, 2015. 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 December 26, 2015, 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 first publication shall so inform the Register of Wills, including name, address and relationship. Date of Publication: June 26, 2015 Name of newspaper: Afro-American Washington Law Reporter Neenah Jordan Kelliebrew Personal Representative

TRUE TEST COPY REGISTER OF WILLS

07/10, 07/17, 07/24/15

06/26, 07/03, 07/10/15

07/10, 07/17, 07/24/15

07/10, 07/174, 07/24/15

To advertise in the AFRO Call 202-332-0080

Superior Court of the District of District of Columbia PROBATE DIVISION Washington, D.C. 20001-2131 Administration No. 2015ADM664 Robert Martin Decedent Thomas L. Campbell, Esq 3807 Minnesota Ave, NE Washington, DC 20019 Attorney NOTICE OF APPOINTMENT, NOTICE TO CREDITORS AND NOTICE TO UNKNOWN HEIRS Dorothy L. Googe, whose address is 44 Pierce Boulevard, Windsor, Connecticut 06090 was appointed personal representative of the estate of Robert Martin, who died on May 11, 2015 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 (or to the probate of decedent´s will) shall be filed with the Register of Wills, D.C., 515 5th Street, N.W., 3rd Floor Wa s h i n g t o n , D . C . 20001, on or before January 10, 2016. 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 January 10, 2016, 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 first publication shall so inform the Register of Wills, including name, address and relationship. Date of Publication: July 10, 2015 Name of newspaper: Afro-American Washington Law Reporter Dorothy L. Googe Personal Representative REGISTER OF WILLS

Superior Court of the District of District of Columbia PROBATE DIVISION Washington, D.C. 20001-2131 Administration No. 2015ADM685 Val E. Lewton AKA Val Edwin Lewton Decedent Robert J. Coyne 400 University Boulevard West S i l v e r, S p r i n g , M D 20904 Attorney NOTICE OF APPOINTMENT, NOTICE TO CREDITORS AND NOTICE TO UNKNOWN HEIRS Claudia A. Minicozzi, whose address is 1425 Manchester Lane, NW, Washington, DC 20011 was appointed personal representative of the estate of Val E. Lewton AKA Val Edwin Lewton , who died on April 24, 2015 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 (or to the probate of decedent´s will) shall be filed with the Register of Wills, D.C., 515 5th Street, N.W., 3rd Floor Wa s h i n g t o n , D . C . 20001, on or before December 26, 2015. 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 December 26, 2015, 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 first publication shall so inform the Register of Wills, including name, address and relationship. Date of Publication: June 26, 2015 Name of newspaper: Afro-American Washington Law Reporter Claudia A. Minicozzi Personal Representative

07/10, 07/17,Tue 07/24/15 TYPESET: Jul 07

TRUE TEST COPY REGISTER OF WILLS

07/10, 07/17, 07/24/15

Superior Court of the District of District of Columbia PROBATE DIVISION Washington, D.C. 20001-2131 Administration No. 2015ADM739 Marion Taylor Bass Decedent NOTICE OF APPOINTMENT, NOTICE TO CREDITORS AND NOTICE TO UNKNOWN HEIRS Reuben G. Bass and Herbert S Bass, whose addresses are 641 Nicholson St. NE, Washington, DC 20011 were appointed personal representatives of the estate of Marion Taylor Bass who died on March 26, 2015 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., 515 5th Street, N.W., 3rd Floor Washington, D.C. 20001, on or before January 10, 2016. 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 January 10, 2016, 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 first publication shall so inform the Register of Wills, including name, address and relationship. Date of Publication: July 10, 2015 Name of newspaper: Afro-American Washington Law Reporter Reuben G. Bass Herbert S. Bass Personal Representatives TRUE TEST COPY REGISTER OF WILLS

06/26, 07/03, 07/10/15

afro.com

• Your History • Your Community • Your News

ADVERTISING ACCOUNT EXECUTIVE

CAREER CORNER

Superior Court of the District of District of Columbia PROBATE DIVISION Washington, D.C. 20001-2131 Administration No. 2015ADM769 Beryl Spellman Decedent Peter Biberstein 409 7th Street NW Suite 200 Washington, DC 20004 Attorney NOTICE OF APPOINTMENT, NOTICE TO CREDITORS AND NOTICE TO UNKNOWN HEIRS Ricardo Bryan, whose address is 530 Somerset Place, NW, Washington, DC 20011 was appointed personal representative of the estate of Beryl Spellman, who died on December 11, 2014 without a will, and will serve without Court supervision. All unknown heirs and heirs whose whereabouts are unknown shall enter their appearance in this proceeding. Objections to such appointment shall be filed with the Register of Wills, D.C., 515 5th Street, N.W., 3rd Floor Washington, D.C. 20001, on or before January 10, 2016. 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 January 10, 2016, 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 first publication shall so inform the Register of Wills, including name, address and relationship. Date of Publication: July 10, 2015 Name of newspaper: Afro-American Washington Law Reporter Ricardo Bryan Personal Representative

Advertising Sales Rep needed for the AFRO-American Newspapers, Washington D.C. Office Position provides: • • • •

Competitive compensation package Salary and commission plan Full benefits after trial period Opportunity for advancement

Candidates should possess: • Previous sales experience; Advertising • • •

sales preferred Excellent customer service skills Excellent written and verbal communication skills Automobile transportation

Please email your resume to: lhowze@afro.com or mail to AFRO-American Newspapers, Diane W. Hocker, Director of Human Resources, 2519 N. Charles Street, Baltimore, MD 21218

TYPESET: Tue Jun 23 10:30:04 EDT 2015Jul 08 14:46:10 TYPESET: Tue Jun 23 10:29:37 EDT 2015 LEGAL NOTICES LEGAL NOTICES LEGAL NOTICES TYPESET: Wed Superior Court of the District of District of Columbia PROBATE DIVISION Washington, D.C. 20001-2131 Administration No. 2015ADM717 Mary Ellen Goggins Decedent Evelyn Miller 5151 Wisconsin Ave. #350 NW Washington, DC 20016 Attorney NOTICE OF APPOINTMENT, NOTICE TO CREDITORS AND NOTICE TO UNKNOWN HEIRS Jacqueline V. Goggins, whose address is 203 Old Dunham Bridge 11:08:48 R d , G EDT r e e n v2015 ille, SC 29611 was appointed personal representative of the estate of Mary Ellen Goggins, who died on December 29, 2000 with a will, and will serve with Court supervision. All unknown heirs and heirs whose where-abouts are unknown shall enter their appearance in this proceeding. Objections to such appointment (or to the probate of decedent´s will) shall be filed with the Register of Wills, D.C., 515 5th Street, N.W., 3rd Floor Wa s h i n g t o n , D . C . 20001, on or before December 26, 2015. 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 December 26, 2015, 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 first publication shall so inform the Register of Wills, including name, address and relationship. Date of Publication: June 26, 2015 Name of newspaper: Afro-American Washington Law Reporter Jacqueline V. Goggins Personal Representative TRUE TEST COPY REGISTER OF WILLS 06/26, 07/03, 07/10/15

Superior Court of the District of District of Columbia PROBATE DIVISION Washington, D.C. 20001-2131 Administration No. 2015ADM674 Gene R. Martin Decedent Wesley L. Clarke 1629 K Street Ste 300 Washington, DC 20006 Attorney NOTICE OF APPOINTMENT, NOTICE TO CREDITORS AND NOTICE TO UNKNOWN HEIRS Gayle Martin, whose address is 2031 Brooks Drive, Forestville, MD 20747 was appointed personal representative of the estate of Gene R. Martin, who died on June 8, 2014 without a will, and will serve without Court supervision. All unknown heirs and heirs whose whereabouts are unknown shall enter their appearance in this proceeding. Objections to such appointment (or to the probate of decedent´s will) shall be filed with the Register of Wills, D.C., 515 5th Street, N.W., 3rd Floor Wa s h i n g t o n , D . C . 20001, on or before December 26, 2015. 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 December 26, 2015, 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 first publication shall so inform the Register of Wills, including name, address and relationship. Date of Publication: June 26, 2015 Name of newspaper: Afro-American Washington Law Reporter Gayle Martin Personal Representative TRUE TEST COPY REGISTER OF WILLS 06/26, 07/03, 07/10

Superior Court of the District of District of Columbia PROBATE DIVISION Washington, D.C. 20001-2131 Administration No. 2015ADM759 Willie Mae Frierson Decedent NOTICE OF APPOINTMENT, NOTICE TO CREDITORS AND NOTICE TO UNKNOWN HEIRS Damien T. Frierson, whose address is 2215 Ta y l o r S t r e e t , N E , Washington, DC 20018 was appointed personal representative of the estate of Willie Mae Frierson , who died on November 18, 2011 with a will, and will serve without Court supervision. All unknown heirs and heirs whose where-abouts are unknown shall enter their appearance in this proceeding. Objections to such appointment (or to the probate of decedent´s will) shall be filed with the Register of Wills, D.C., 515 5th Street, N.W., 3rd Floor Wa s h i n g t o n , D . C . 20001, on or before January 10, 2016. 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 January 10, 2016, 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 first publication shall so inform the Register of Wills, including name, address and relationship. Date of Publication: July 10, 2015 Name of newspaper: Afro-American Washington Law Reporter Damien T. Frierson Personal Representative TRUE TEST COPY REGISTER OF WILLS 07/10, 07/17, 07/24/15

You know you’re in the know... When you read the AFRO!

C4 The Afro-American, July 11, 2015 - July 17, 2015

FOSTER PARENT

Become a Foster Parent! Treatment Foster Parents work from home, receive a tax-free stipend and professional 24 hour on-call support for providing shelter for a young person who has suffered abuse or neglect. For more information, call the CHOSEN Treatment Foster Care Program at 1-800-621-8834.

AD NETWORK

AUTOMOBILE DONATIONS

DONATE AUTOS, TRUCKS, RV’S. LUTHERAN MISSION SOCIETY. Your donation helps local families with food, clothing, shelter, counseling. Tax deductible. MVA License #W1044. 410-636-0123 or www. LutheranMissionSociety

BUSINESS SERVICES

Drive traffic to your business and reach 4.1 million readers with just one phone call & one bill. See your business ad in 104 newspapers in Maryland, Delaware and the District of Columbia for just $495.00 per ad placement. The value of newspapers advertising HAS NEVER BEEN STRONGER....call 1-855-721-6332 x 6 or 301-852-8933 today to place your ad before 4.1 million readers. Email Wanda Smith @ smith@ mddcpress.com or visit our website at www. mddcpress.com

BUSINESS OPPORTUNITIES

Place your ad today in the area’s premier newspapers, The Baltimore Sun and The Washington Post newspapers, along with 10 other daily newspapers five days per week. Reach 2.5 million readers with your ad placement in every daily newspaper in Maryland, Delaware and the District of Columbia. For just pennies on the dollar reach 2.5 million readers through the MDDC’s Daily Classified Connection Network. Maximize your advertising dollars and reach the strongest demographics in the region. Take advantage of this opportunity today! CALL 1-855721-6332 x 6 or 301852-8933; SPACE is VERY LIMITED; email wsmith@mddcpress. com or visit our website at www.mddcpress.com ATTN: COMPUTER WORK. Work from anywhere 24/7. Up to $1,500 Part-Time to $7,500/mo. Full Time Training provided. Www.WorkServices25. com

EDUCATIONALTRAINING

AVIATION Grads work with JetBlue, Boeing, Delta and others- start here with hands on training for FAA certification. Financial aid if qualified. Call Aviation Institute of Maintenance 866-823-6729 MEDICAL CAREER! Train at Home for a career processing Medical Billing & Insurance Claims! NO EXPERIENCE NEEDED! Call CTI for details! HS Diploma/GED & Computer/Internet needed. 1-877-649-2671.

FURNITURE CLEANING Leap into spring with the use of our full-service furniture upholstery cleaning team! Call Upholstery Care USA today-410622-8759-Baltimore or 202-534-7768- DC & MD. As industry leaders, we can make your spring cleaning a breeze. Visit us at www. upholsterycareusa.com

HELP WANTED: SALES

EARN $500 A DAY: Insurance Agents Needed * Leads, No Cold

Calls * Commissions Paid Daily * Lifetime Renewals * Complete Training * Health & Dental Insurance * Life License Required. Call 1-888-713-6020

MEDICAL SUPPLIES

Need Interior/Exterior Stairlifts! Raymond Maule & Son offers STRAIGHT or Curved ACORN Stairlifts; Call Angel & Kathy TODAY 888-353-8878; Also available Exterior Porchlifts; Avoid Unsightly Long Ramps; Save $200.00.

LAKE PROPERTY AMAZING WATERFRONT GETAWAY 4.6 acres, 275 ft of shoreline, sweeping water views. Access Choptank River and Bay! Dock installed and ready. ONLY $69,900 Call 443-225-4679

REAL ESTATE NEW LOG GETAWAY CLOSE TO TOWN LAKE/ VIEWS $69,538 Chance to own new log sided Cabin shell on 4 acres. Mountain Views close to lake. All park like Hardwoods, easy laying parcel. Ready to use, new perc, utilities On site. OR 32 ACRES 50 MILE VIEWS ONLY $149,900 READY TO USE. CALL NOW 800-8881262

LAND FOR SALE Delaware’s Resort Living Without Resort Pricing! Low taxes! Gated Community, Close to Beaches, Amazing Amenities, Olympic Pool. New Homes from $80’s. Brochures Available 1-866-629-0770 or www.coolbranch.com Delaware: New homes in Sussex and Kent counties from $209,000 in communities close to Rehoboth Beach, Delaware Bay (Bower’s Beach), or Nanticoke River (Seaford). 302653-7700 www.LenapeBuilders.ne

WATERFRONT HOMES FOR SALE

Spectacular 5 to 22 acre lots with deepwater access- Located on Virginia’s Eastern Shore south of Ocean City. Amenities include community pier, boat ramp and private sandy beach. Great boating, fishing & clamming. Absolute

AD NETWORK

buy of a lifetime! Recent bank failure makes these lots available at a fraction of their original price. From 25 lots made available May 1st there are only 9 remaining. Priced $55,000 to $124,000. For info call (757) 442-2171, email: oceanlandtrust@yahoo. com , pictures on website: www.waverlylots. com.

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

TYPESET: Wed Jun 24 13:07:35 EDT 2015

LEGAL NOTICES

CITY OF BALTIMORE DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION Public Notice CHARM CITY CIRCULATOR The original intent of the Charm City Circulator (CCC) was to reduce traffic congestion, spread the use of the existing parking supply, tie growing communities together for residents and visitors, and connect transportation modalities by providing a safe, alternative mode of public transportation while reducing automobile congestion and air pollution in the City’s Central Business District. Funding for the CCC program was achieved by restructuring the City’s parking tax. While the CCC’s operating expenses have increased over the years, the revenue derived from the parking tax adjustment has remained stagnant. In addition, issues with the supplier of the initial CCC fleet have necessitated significant unforeseen and unfunded expenditures. Subsequently, the CCC is operating at a deficit and will be for the near future. In an effort address this deficit and maintain our goal of traffic mitigation, it is proposed that the CCC system be restructured. Through this process, CCC operations will be adjusted to make the program sustainable while continuing to meet ridership needs. Adjustments to the program include: *Elimination of the Banner Route * Federal grant funding for the Banner Route has ended. Commuters can utilize MTA Local Bus Route #1 to access Fort Avenue and Fort McHenry. *Implementation of uniform operating hours for all routes: *Monday through Thursday 7:00 am - 8:00 pm *Friday 7:00 am - 12:00 am *Saturday 9:00 am - 12:00 am *Sunday 9:00 am - 8:00 pm *The Orange Route will be modified and the following stops will be eliminated: 207, 209, 210, 211, 212, 213, 226, 227 *The following Orange Route stops will be added: Fayette Street at Poppleton Street, Fayette Street at Fremont Avenue, Fleet Street at Exeter Street, and Central Avenue at Bank Street *The Green Route will be modified and the following stops will be eliminated: 101,104, 105, 106, 107, 108, 109, 110, 111, 112, 113, 114, 116, 119, 120, 121, 122, 123, 125, 126 *The following Green Route stops will be added: Fayette Street at Colvin Street, Fayette Street at Holliday Street, Fayette Street at St. Paul Street, Baltimore Street at Calvert Street, Fleet Street at Exeter Street, Fleet Street at Caroline Street, Fayette Street at Wolfe Street (eastbound), Washington Street at Jefferson Street, and Madison Street at Wolfe Street *Purple Route Northern Extension will be implemented The majority of the proposed changes are scheduled to take effect on July 20, 2015, except for the Purple Route Northern Extension which is expected to occur in the Fall of 2015. The restructured Charm City Circulator map is available at www.charmcitycirculator.com and www. baltimorecity.gov/Government/AgenciesDepartments/Transportation.aspx for public engagement and comment. Interested members of the public are encouraged to provide feedback and comments on the proposed changes. The comment period is currently open through July 8, 2015. Citizens may mail or email testimonies/ comments through midnight, July 8, 2015 to the Department of Transportation, 417 E. Fayette Street, Room 559, Baltimore, MD 21202 or to info@charmcitycirculator.com (using ”CCC Proposed Changes July 2015” as the subject). All public comments received will considered by the responsible administrator prior to taking final action on the proposed service adjustments. Several public informational sessions will also be held during the month of July. Please visit www.charmcitycirculator.com and www.baltimorecity.gov/ Government/AgenciesDepartments/Transportation.aspx for additional information and updates on meeting dates and times. Persons unable to attend the hearings may mail or email testimonies/ comments through midnight, July 8, 2015 to Department of Transportation, 417 E. Fayette Street, Room 559, Baltimore, MD 21202 or info@ charmcitycirculator.com (with CCC Proposed Changes July 2015 as the subject). In accordance with Title II of the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) and Title VI of the Civil Rights Act of 1964, all Baltimore City, Department of Transportation meetings are conducted in locations accessible to persons with disabilities and materials can be provided in accessible formats or translated into languages, other than English, upon request. All requests for reasonable and/or special accommodations must be made at least five (5) business days prior to the scheduled meeting date If you would like to request accessibility or language accommodations (foreign or sign), please telephone 410-396-6818 between 8am and 4pm, Monday through Friday. Individuals or speech impairment may use Maryland Relay TYPESET: with Wed hearing Jul 08 15:41:44 EDT 2015 Service TTY 711 + 410-396-6818.

SAMPLE

TYPESET: Wed Aug 06 14:33:16 EDT 2014

1 Col. Inch Up to 20 Words

AFRO Classified minimum ad rate is $26.54 per col. inch (an inch consists of up to 20 words). Mail in your ad on form below along with CHECK or MONEY ORDER to: BALTIMORE AFRO-AMERICAN CO. 2519 N. Charles Street Baltimore, Md. 21218-4602 Attn: Clsf. Adv. Dept.

10.

11.

12.

13.

14.

15.

16.

17.

18.

19.

20.

BALTIMORE AFRO-AMERICAN NEWSPAPER Legal Advertising Rates Effective October 1, 2008 PROBATE DIVISION (Estates) 202-332-0080 PROBATE NOTICES a. Order Nisi $ 60 per insertion b. Small Estates (single publication $ 60 per insertion c. Notice to Creditors 1. Domestic $ 60 per insertion 2. Foreign $ 60 per insertion d. Escheated Estates $ 60 per insertion e. Standard Probates

CIVIL NOTICES a. Name Changes 202-879-1133 b. Real Property

a. Absent Defendant b. Absolute Divorce c. Custody Divorce

NOTICES TYPESET: Wed Jul 01 11:06:00 EDT LEGAL 2015 5Public Notice Request for Proposals For Targeted Training for In-Demand Careers For Baltimore City Residents

The RFP will be released on July 8, 2015 and can be viewed on MOED’s website: www.oedworks.com or by request to msloat@oedworks.com. All proposals must be received in the appropriate format and number of copies HABC will begin accepting proposals at 2:00 p.m. Eastern Time on Mon- by Friday, August 7, 2015 - 4:00 p.m. EST.

Housing Authority of Baltimore City Division of Fiscal Operations, Procurement Department 417 E. Fayette Street, Room 414 Baltimore, Maryland 21202 Attention: John Airey, Chief of Contracting Services Tel: (410) 396-3261 Fax: (410) 962-1586 john.airey@habc.org

SUPPORT OUR ADVERTISERS

$ 80.00 $ 200.00

$ 150.00 $ 150.00 $150.00

To place your ad, call 1-800-237-6892, ext. 262, Public Notices $50.00 & up depending on size, Baltimore Legal Notices are $24.84 per inch. 1-800 (AFRO) 892 For Proof of Publication, please call 1-800-237-6892, ext. 244

The Housing Authority of Baltimore City (”HABC”) will issue a Request for Proposals (”RFP”) for interested and qualified Development Partners to provide housing for the homeless to be located in Baltimore City.

The RFP and all supporting documents will be available for download at www.baltimorehousing.org on or after Monday, July 20, 2015. 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-1798-15.

$180.00 per 3 weeks $180.00 per 3 weeks $360.00 per 6 weeks $125.00

FAMILY COURT 202-879-1212 DOMESTIC RELATIONS 202-879-0157

The Mayor’s Office of Employment Development (MOED) is seeking responses to a Request for Proposals to conduct occupational skills training HOUSING AUTHORITY OF BALTIMORE CITY in six key sectors including health care, construction, technology REQUEST FOR PROPOSALS manufacturing, transportation and logistics to serve disconnected individuals from distressed Baltimore City neighborhoods. The occupaRFP NUMBER: B-1798-15 tional skills training for in-demand careers must include job readiness and Set aside funding availability for Project-Based Voucher units to house the life skills training coupled with comprehensive case management, employment services, and job placement. Proposals must reflect a strong direct homeless population. connection to employers.

day, July 27, 2015. HABC will continue to accept proposals until all available funding has been awarded.

$180.00 per 3 weeks

A Bidders Conference will be held on Thursday, July 16, 2015 from 3:00 p.m. until 5:00 p.m. at the Eastside One Stop Career Center located at 3001 TYPESET: JulBaltimore, 08 15:42:11 2015 E. Madison Wed Street, MD EDT 21205. City of Baltimore Department of Finance Bureau of Purchases Sealed proposals addressed to the Board of Estimates of Baltimore will be received until, but not later than 11:00a.m. local time on the following date(s) for the stated requirements: July 15, 2015 *AMMUNITION FOR POLICE & SHERIFF’S DEPARTMENTS B50004162 July 22, 2015 *LEOTEK STREET LIGHT FIXTURES B50004155 THE ENTIRE SOLICITATION DOCUMENT CAN BE VIEWED AND DOWN LOADED BY VISITING THE CITY’S WEB SITE: www.baltimorecitibuy.org

AFRO.COM • Your History • Your Community • Your News

TYPESET: Wed Jul 01 11:06:18 IN THE CIRCUIT COURT FOR BALTIMORE CITY Case No.: 24D14001918 Circuit Court for Baltimore City

Maleka T. Elion 546 Wyanoke Ave Baltimore, MD 21218

Plaintiff vs

Ahmed Elahamer 954 E 34th Brooklyn, NY 11210

Defendant NOTICE (DOM REL 72)

The above Plaintiff has filed a petition/complaint/ motion, entitled: Absolute Divorce in which he/she is seeking Absolute Divorce. Notice is hereby issued by the Circuit Court of Baltimore City, that the relief sought in the aforementioned petition/ complaint/motion may be granted, unless cause be shown to the contrary. Defendant is to file a response to the petition/ complaint/motion on or before August 3, 2015. Failure to file the response within the time allowed may result in a judgment to default or the granting of the relief sought, provided a copy of this Notice be: 0 published in some newspaper published in this county/city, once in each of three (3) successive weeks on or before July 31, 2015. Lavinia G. Alexander Acting Clerk 07/03, 07/10 & 07/17/15

To advertise in the AFRO Call 410-554-8200

July 11, 2015 - July 17, 2015, The Afro-American LEGAL NOTICES

LEGAL NOTICES

INVITE YOU TO SEE

Career Corner

TYPESET: Wed Jul 08 15:43:28 EDT 2015

ANNE ARUNDEL COUNTY CAREER OPPORTUNITIES Accountant III Automotive Mechanic III Correctional Program Specialist II, Detention Custodial Supervisor Customer Service Representative, Part-Time Engineer I, II & III Environmental Control Inspector Financial Operations Supervisor Occupational Safety & Health Specialist Traffic Signal Technician Utility Billing Financial Operations Supervisor Visit our website at www.aacounty.org for additional information and to apply on-line. You may use the Internet at any Anne Arundel County library, or visit our office at 2660 Riva Road in Annapolis. Deadlines to apply posted on website. AEO/DF/SFE TYPESET: Wed Jul 08 15:49:20 EDT 2015

FOR YOUR CHANCE TO WIN TWO TICKETS TO SEE THE FILM, VISIT www.gofobo.com/AfroBaltimoreSouthpaw No purchase necessary. Supplies limited. Pass admits two. One pass per winner. Employees of all promotional partners are not eligible. Decisions Final. This film is rated R.

IN THEATERS JULY 24

EDUCATION -

/SouthpawMovie •

/SouthpawMovie • #Southpaw

CYBER TECHNOLOGY COORDINATOR/FACULTY MEMBER IN CYBERSECURITY CARROLL COMMUNITY COLLEGE has a full-time, 12 month position available as Cyber Technology Coordinator/Faculty Member in Cybersecurity. Additional information may be obtained at www.carrollcc.edu. EOE/M/F

INVITE YOU TO SEE

FOR YOUR CHANCE TO WIN TWO TICKETS TO SEE THE FILM, VISIT www.gofobo.com/AfroDCSouthpaw No purchase necessary. Supplies limited. Pass admits two. One pass per winner. Employees of all promotional partners are not eligible. Decisions Final. This film is rated R.

IN THEATERS JULY 24 /SouthpawMovie •

/SouthpawMovie • #Southpaw

T:10.75”

The Afro-American, July 11, 2015 - July 17, 2015

WE’VE GONE TO GREAT LENGTHS TO ENSURE YOU CAN DO THE SAME.

T:20”

THE 2015 CHEVROLET MALIBU WITH AN EPA-ESTIMATED 36 MPG HIGHWAY. The Chevrolet Malibu offers seamless stop/start technology that can automatically shut off the engine when the car is stopped to increase fuel efficiency.* So by stopping, you’ll be able to keep going and going.

“Most Dependable Midsize Car” in 2015**

CHEVROLET MALIBU Malibu with 2.5L engine 25 MPG city. **The Chevrolet Malibu received the lowest number of problems per 100 vehicles among midsize cars in the proprietary J.D. Power 2015 Vehicle Dependability Study.SM Study based on responses from 34,372 original owners of 2012 model-year vehicles after three years of ownership about problems experienced in the past 12 months. Proprietary study results are based on experiences and perceptions of consumers surveyed November–December 2014. Your experiences may vary. Visit jdpower.com.

PUBS: Chicago Dly Defender Dallas Examiner

July 11, 2015 - July 17, 2015, The Afro-American

Baltimore

Inside • Community Connection D3

Affordable Housing Development Opens in Northwest Baltimore

Spiking Crime Spurs Baltimore Police Shakeup

AFRO Exclusive

Dixon Stresses Inclusive, Engaged Style of Leadership

By Jannah Johnson Special to The AFRO Residents and local government officials were on hand to witness the grand opening of the Dorothy J Luxury Apartments at 3915 Liberty Heights Avenue in NorthWest Baltimore on July 7. The apartments were dedicated by Kevin Johnson, CEO of Commercial Development, which developed the property, and named in honor of Johnson’s mother, Dorothy. Commercial was first founded by Johnson as a drywall company in 1990 servicing inner city Baltimore, and throughout the years the company has developed into one of the largest drywall companies in the Mid-Atlantic and has grown to include construction management, contracting, and real estate development. After partnering with a drywall contractor for a few years he began his own company and since then has helped Commercial expand and worked on buildings such as Maryland Live Casino, Morgan State University’s Fine Arts Center and M&T Bank Stadium. Johnson grew up near the property and decided that the apartments should mirror the commitment he and his mother share for giving back to the community. When Dorothy Johnson herself spoke at the Ribbon Cutting Ceremony she expressed her pleasure with the outcome of the project and said “It is beautiful to have people who are interested in doing the Continued on D2

AP Photo

Baltimore Mayor Stephanie Rawlings-Blake announced the firing of Batts in a news release July 8. BALTIMORE (AP) — Mayor Stephanie Rawlings-Blake The Rev. Alvin Gwynn Sr., president of the city’s fired the troubled city’s police commissioner on July 8, saying Interdenominational Ministerial Alliance, said the firing that a recent spike in homicides in the weeks after an unarmed was long overdue. Gwynn, who began calling for Batts’ black man died of injuries in police custody required a change resignation within days of Gray’s death, blamed the bloody in leadership. spike in violence on the mayor’s previous reluctance to fire the Rawlings-Blake thanked Police Commissioner Anthony commissioner. Batts for his service — and praised the job he had done — “We have people who died because they delayed,” he said. but said growing criticism of his performance had become a The U.S. Justice Department is conducting a civil rights “distraction” that was preventing the city from moving ahead. review of the department, and on July 7, Batts announced that Deputy Police Commissioner Kevin Davis, who has only an outside organization will review the police response to the been with the department since January, will serve as interim civil unrest that followed Gray’s death. Most of the unrest took commissioner, Rawlings-Blake said. place on April 27, prompted by Gray’s death on April 19. “We need a change,” the mayor The Baltimore police union told a news conference, which was released its own scathing postattended by Davis. “This was not an mortem report Tuesday accusing easy decision but it is one that is in Batts and other top brass of the best interest of Baltimore. The instructing officers not to engage people of Baltimore deserve better with rioters and to allow looting and we’re going to get better.” and destruction to occur. The firing comes 2 1/2 months The report from the Baltimore – Mayor Stephanie Rawlings-Blake Fraternal Order of Police Lodge 3 after the city broke out in riots following the death of Freddie also says officers were told not to Gray, who died in April of injuries wear protective gear, and to request he received in police custody. Six police officers have been permission from the department’s legal section before making criminally charged in Gray’s death. arrests. After the violence, arrests in the city plummeted and “The officers repeatedly expressed concern that the passive homicides spiked. In the latest example, gunmen jumped out of response of the Baltimore police commanders to the civil two vans and fired at a group of people a few blocks from an unrest allowed the disorder to grow into full-scale rioting,” urban university campus on July 7, killing three people. union president Kevin Ryan wrote in the report. “The riots Police said that the shooting wasn’t random, but no arrests were preventable.” have been made. Following Batts’ firing on July 8, the union issued a “As we have seen in recent weeks, too many continue to statement reiterating the report’s concerns but also said it die on our streets, including three just last night and one earlier would work with Davis to improve the situation. today,” Rawlings-Blake said. Referring to Batts, she said Davis was previously chief of police in Anne Arundel “recent events proved that his being here was a distraction.” County, Maryland, and assistant chief in Prince George’s “We cannot continue to debate the leadership of the County, Maryland. The mayor said that in addition to reducing department,” the mayor said. “We cannot continue to have the crime, Davis would “bring accountability to police, hold level of violence we’ve seen in recent weeks in this city. We Continued on D2 have made progress; I don’t want to lose that progress.”

“The people of Baltimore deserve better and we’re going to get better.”

Wikimedia.org

Former Mayor Sheila Dixon has announced she will seek Baltimore City’s top job in the 2016 election. By Roberto Alejandro Special to the AFRO ralejandro@afro.com Former Mayor Sheila Dixon feels that Baltimore City has regressed in a number of key areas since she was forced to leave office in 2010. She believes her more inclusive and engaged style of leadership can change the direction of the city for the better. “I, in my elected positions from city council, city council president, to mayor, know that our city has made tremendous strides, and I know under my leadership we made so much great progress. And over the last several years, a lot of the progress as relates to reducing crime, as relates to cleaning this city up, and attracting people to Baltimore, and dealing with health issues, [has] declined. And it’s disheartening that things have kind of reversed [them] selves,” said Dixon. The former mayor, currently the director of marketing for the Maryland

Continued on D2

Morgan University Awarded $500,000 Mellon Grant By Jannah Johnson Special to The AFRO Morgan State University President David Wilson announced on June 30 that the University had been awarded a $500,000 grant from the Andrew W. Mellon Foundation. The award will be used over three years to fund the establishment of the Benjamin A. Quarles Humanities and Social Science Institute as an addition to Morgan’s liberal arts program. Both Morgan President David Wilson and Liberal Arts Dean Dr. Pamela Scott-Johnson believe the addition of the Quarles Institute is necessary in order to broaden their student’s horizons and boost enrollment. “The Institute will focus on students at both the undergraduate and graduate levels…We will focus on increasing the number of African American faculty and faculty of African descent who are engaged in scholarly research and teaching humanities and social sciences on Historically Black College and University campuses.” said Dr. Pamela ScottJohnson in a statement. The Institute will feature several disciplines including Environmental Studies, International Studies, Women’s studies, Ethnomusicology, Philosophy, Fine Arts and a wide variety of other Liberal Arts subjects and is planned to promote the knowledge for the cultures of the African Diaspora and introduce students who may be aware of the importance of a Liberal Arts education to the value of such a discipline. The AFRO- American Newspaper played a large role in making the expansion of the Liberal Arts program possible. “The AFRO covers the African Diaspora within the construct of regional and national history and can thus provide primary resources for research” said AFRO Chairman/Publisher John Oliver Jr. in a statement. “The AFRO will make available archivist Jazette Marshburn to work directly with Morgan students and faculty in examining parallel development of

the AFRO and Morgan, providing subjects for research, and giving the students firsthand experience in digitizing archives”. The AFRO has been involved with the Mellon foundation previously and was included in a grant awarded John’s Hopkins University that included Morgan students and faculty as well as the newspaper archives provided by the AFRO.

“The Mellon investment in Morgan…will ensure that we continue to tackle those issues in our society that stretch our minds, challenge our biases and broaden our perspectives…” –David Wilson

(Courtesy Photo)

(L-R) Lee Bynum, Program Associate, Diversity Initiatives; Associate Director, Mellon Mays Undergraduate Fellowship, Dr. David Wilson, President, Morgan State University, Dr. Armando Bengochea, Program Officer, and Director, Mellon Mays Undergraduate Fellowship, Dr. Pamela Scott-Johnson, Interim Dean, Morgan State University College of Liberal Arts “The Mellon investment in Morgan…will ensure that we continue to tackle those issues in our society that stretch our minds, challenge our biases and broaden our perspectives on the issues so essential to our nation’s vitality and competitiveness,” said University President Wilson in a statement. “The Humanities and Social Sciences are the core of innovation, creativity and understanding of the human

condition. These are the disciplines that give rise to critical thinking and they must always be strong on our campuses”. The new institute will be named after Dr. Benjamin A. Quarles, a Morgan State University alumni, who is a renowned writer, historian, and scholar focusing on Black History. Morgan State hopes to continue his legacy and through this new establishment provide its students with the opportunity to learn more about Black culture and the African Diaspora. “The faculty of the college of Liberal Arts decided that because Quarles taught here and was dedicated to teaching about African American studies and the Diaspora the new establishments and the classes taught there should serve that same purpose…the goal is to excite students about humanities and social sciences and improve the percent of students retained by the University” said one Morgan State official. Morgan State hopes to continue Quarles’s legacy and through this new establishment provide its students with the opportunity to learn more about African American culture and the African Diaspora.

The Afro-American, July 11, 2015 - July 17, 2015

Spiking Crime

See more photos on afro.com.

Continued from D1

officers who act out of line accountable for their actions.” Rod J. Rosenstein, U.S. Attorney for Maryland, praised Davis, saying he helped reform the Prince George’s County Police Department, “raising morale and professionalism while dramatically reducing crime.” In his own remarks to the news conference, Davis said his goals would include improving the relationship with the officers who work for him. “I will walk with them and serve with them and be with them every step of the way,” he said. But Davis also has indicated a willingness in the past to speak out against police abuses. As Anne Arundel chief, he issued a news release disagreeing with a decision by the county Fraternal Order of Police Lodge 70 to donate $1,070 to a defense fund for Officer Darren Wilson in Ferguson, Missouri. Wilson, who is white, fatally shot Michael Brown, an unarmed black man, on Aug. 9. Davis said he’d heard from “many outraged citizens” who thought the police department was making the donation. He said he attended a local NAACP rally about Ferguson and that “policing in the 21st century requires strong relationships with all of our residents.” Rawlings-Blake appointed Batts as police commissioner in September 2012. His contract with the city paid him $190,000 and was to run through June 2020. It includes a provision for a severance payment equal to his annual salary if he is terminated without cause.

Affordable Housing Development Continued from D1

right thing” The property was finished 3 months ago and houses 44 units. The apartments are designed to be affordable to working families and come with amenities such as dry cleaning, concierge, a pool, a fitness center and high speed internet. Those in attendance for the ribbon cutting and dedication included Mayor Stephanie Rawlings Blake, City Council President Bernard C. “Jack” Young, Councilman Carl Stokes (district 12), Councilwoman Helen Holton (district 8), Maryland State Delegate Samuel Rosenberg and Baltimore City Comptroller Joan Pratt. Mayor Rawlings Blake addressed the crowd, saying, “This property, many of us had probably (AFRO/Photo Kamau High) lost hope that it would ever be Kevin Johnson (white pants), Dorothy Johnson anything other than a derelict sight (wearing pink), and Mayor Stephanie Rawlings-Blake and now look at it, it is gorgeous… (cutting the ribbon) were among the many people at it gives me hope and optimism.” the dedication of the Dorothy J. City Council President Jack was determined to hire other minorities for Young echoed her sentiments and the project and he prides himself on having a described the project as “classy and worthy” large amount of minority representation within and thanked Kevin Johnson for his dedication Commercial Group, the umbrella company for to the community. “It’s amazing what you can construction businesses. do when you have a vision and Kevin always Johnson appears to have no plans had that vision.” He also stated that he hoped of slowing down and told City Council to see more developments like this one around President Jack Young that there was another Baltimore in the future. development coming soon to East Baltimore Kevin Johnson called the project “the featuring that would house 275 units. epitome of a dream and a vision.” Johnson

(AFRO/Photo JD Howard)

The National Coalition of 100 Black Women, Baltimore Metropolitan Chapter held their 23rd Annual Gourmet Men of Distinction “Men Who Cook” on May 17th at Martin’s West. Front Row Left to Right: Thelma Daley, (Parliamentarian) Rosemary Atkinson, (1st Vice Pres.), Sara Smalley, (Treasurer), Landa McLaurin (President), E. Fran Johnson, Kathy Robertson (Financial Secretary), Melanie Irby (Recording Secretary), Neva Brown, Mary Demory (Historian), Leah Hasty and Paulette Burgess

Dixon

Continued from D1 Minority Contractors Association, says that many residents, even people she did not know personally, have been approaching her over the last two years to re-enter Baltimore City’s political arena, and Dixon believes the city could benefit from her style of leadership. “You need someone who can get in there, who knows how the budget works, who knows our agencies, and can get things moving in a whole other direction . . . My style of leadership is really an inclusive partnership, working in communities with community leaders and individuals, with the business community, and that’s always been my philosophy because we can get more done and accomplished when we work cohesively together [rather] than in silos,” said Dixon of her approach to governance. It is hard not to hear in these words at least a contrast, if not an outright critique, of Mayor Stephanie RawlingsBlakes, who faces some strong headwinds heading into 2016 over the perception that she has failed to effectively connect with many of Baltimore’s community’s, especially poorer Black ones. Asked whether she thought the criticism that RawlingsBlake had failed to hear all communities during her tenure was fair, Dixon said it was, and suggested that some of Rawlings-Blake’s other commitments, like her involvement in the U.S. Conference of Mayors (of which Rawlings-Blake is now president), has served as something of a distraction to her responsibilities towards Baltimore. “[As mayor] we have to wear multiple hats, but in wearing multiple hats and then having other responsibilities outside of the city, you have to then make some choices [about] where you’re going to put most of your energies. You can’t be

all over the place and then try to serve and represent the citizens, because it’s impossible . . . We have such a challenging city, it needs someone who’s going to be focused on Baltimore,” said Dixon. The former mayor touched on a number of public policy issues including her approach to public safety. Dixon said that during her previous administration, she worked to improve officer retention, pushed a consistent focus on repeat, violent offenders, worked with state and federal partners to reduce the number of guns on the streets, and sought to have police officers directly engage the community by stepping out of their cars and getting to know the people and neighborhoods they served. “I would enhance that whole effort that I created in the past, because I saw where, in 30 years, that was the first time that crime had gone down,” said Dixon. Public safety is likely to be an important issue during this campaign, with the city struggling under huge increases in homicides and gun violence, while also having to navigate a tense relationship between the Baltimore Police Department and many communities who consider the department’s tactics abusive. Dixon has faced some criticism for failing to be a more vocal opponent of the zero tolerance style of policing which Martin O’Malley introduced to Baltimore during his tenure as mayor, when Dixon was serving as City Council President. But Dixon denies failing to criticize O’Malley’s approach to policing, citing the creation of the city council’s public safety committee during her council presidency as an example of her work to push against the mantra of zero tolerance and give the council some oversight with respect to policing in Baltimore. Further, she points out that she did not continue the practice of zero tolerance after succeeding O’Malley as mayor, but instead worked to implement community-based efforts like Safe Streets, which uses exoffenders to target those at risk for violence in order to reduce shootings in the city. Safe Streets speaks to Dixon’s broader approach to governance, which favors direct, sustained engagement. From improving re-entry services, to increasing the number of people making use of the city’s recycling and trash pick up days, Dixon stressed the importance of regular outreach that directly touches the community. Her approach to economic development, also stresses direct engagement, but

this time of the business community. “I believe that part of the role of a mayor and city government is to work with the private sector, for them to attract businesses here to the city, and that we are the cheerleaders to provide and make sure that the permit process is going through. If there are some potential incentives that [are] going to help and benefit those residents [businesses], then our role is to work with the private sector to make it easier and more affordable to want to be located here,” said Dixon, who did not push back on the suggestion that there did not appear to be much daylight between her approach to economic development and what our current mayor has sought to do during her tenure. Where Dixon does distinguish herself, however, is on insisting that we have to find alternative uses for abandoned lots and vacant homes rather than hoping they will be filled with residents one day. “We’re not going to necessarily attract back the number of people we had in the past, over a million people. Baltimore County will be at a million before we are, we’ll be at 500,000. But in those areas where we see different neighborhoods where we can create more green space, where we might even have to create some industrial space that could potentially attract some light manufacturing to come back and look at Baltimore,” said Dixon. She addressed the scandal which forced her out of office back in 2010. Dixon says she made a mistake in failing to disclose her romantic relationship with developer Ronald Lipscomb, acknowledging that she received gifts from him, but denying that he ever received any direct benefit from the city as a result of their relationship or that she ever used the gift cards intended for the poor that were at the center of the scandal. “The cards went to charitable purposes,” said Dixon. “I received gifts. And we took care of a lot of people, for a number of years, through that program that we personally established through our own personal money.” Dixon says she has learned from her mistakes and that she is asking for a second chance from a city she argues she never gave up on.“During those challenging times that I went through that whole ordeal, I never stopped doing my work for the citizens of Baltimore. And I could’ve just checked out, but I didn’t, because I knew that ultimately [that was] my responsibility,” said Dixon.

July 11, 2015 - July 17, 2015, The Afro-American

BALTIMORE AREA

COMMUNITY CONNECTION Elevation Program’s Community Continuum Resource Fair

NAACP’s Fourth Annual Day of Unity

Afternoon Luncheon Tea

‘America’s Largest FREE Art Festival ‘

The Elevation Program’s Community Continuum Resource Fair is being held for citizens returning from incarceration at the War Memorial Building at 101 N. Gay Street, Baltimore on July 15 from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. The event hosts are the Department of Public Safety and Correctional Services, the Baltimore City Detention Center, the Mayor’s Office of Human Resources and Baltimore’s Safe and Sound Campaign. For additional details please contact Renard Brooks at 410-396-1809 or Kate Wolfson at 410-625-7976.

The NAACP will recognize The Black Church and HIV: The Social Justice Imperative fourth annual nationwide Day of Unity on Sunday, July 12 in an effort to combat the social injustices that have led to the disparate impact that HIV has on Black America. As a cornerstone of the initiative, the Day of Unity encourages pastors to address the epidemic’s impact on the Black community with their congregations by preaching from the pulpit about HIV as a social justice issue. This year, the Day of Unity is calling upon pastors to commit to the following actions: Faith leaders can pledge to join in the Day of Unity at www.TheBlackChurchandHIV.org. Artscape is coming to Baltimore, July 17 through July 19. Artscape features 150+ fine artists, fashion designers and craftspeople; visual art exhibits on and off-site, including exhibitions, outdoor sculpture, art cars, photography and the Janet & Walter Sondheim Prize; incredible live concerts on outdoor stages; a full schedule of performing arts including dance, opera, theater, film, experimental music and the Baltimore Symphony Orchestra; family events such as hands-on projects, demonstrations, competitions, children’s entertainers and street theater; and a delicious, international menu of food and beverages that is available throughout the festival site at 140 West Mt. Royal Avenue, Baltimore. Visit http://www.artscape.org for the 2015 festival and entertainment schedule.

An Evening of Jazz and Scholarship Benefit Concert

The Baltimore County African American Cultural Festival announces a benefit concert featuring Phil Perry, Marcus Mitchell and Ronny Smith on August 1 at 7 p.m. at the Gordon Center in Owings Mills, MD. Each year scholarships are awarded to high school students pursuing careers in business, science, education and the arts. Students must have good academic credentials, as well as being significantly involved in their communities through public service. Come join us as we raise money for deserving students in Baltimore County. Contact Tanya Williams at 443-562-5203 for ticket cost. Photo by J.D. Howard

Back to School Rally

Lillian Jones celebrated her 95th birthday on May 2, 2015. The afternoon luncheon tea was held at Linwoods Restaurant in Reisterstown, MD. A 1980’s activist for the Johnston Square Community Association and the (namesake for the Lillian Jones Apartments at 1300 Greenmount Avenue, Baltimore, Maryland Miss. Jones is still an avid reader of The Afro-American Newspaper.

It’s easy to earn bill credits on ENERGY SAVINGS DAYS.

“

”

Mayor Stephanie Rawlings-Blake’s annual back to school rally is on August 8 at 12 p.m. at the War Memorial Plaza, located at 101 N. Gay Street, Baltimore. The festival is to help students prepare for school by giving out new school supplies, backpacks, childhood immunizations and other resources. Call 443-984-1650 for more information.

WE’LL NOTIFY YOU By email, phone, or text

2 3 REDUCE YOUR USE

Use less electricity between 1 pm – 7 pm

EARN REWARDS

Earn $1.25 for every kilowatt-hour saved

Stephanie LAUREL

An Energy Savings Day is called when the demand for electricity is expected to be particularly high. This typically occurs on very hot summer weekdays when homes and businesses are using higher amounts of electricity. These days are your opportunities to earn BGE bill credits by reducing your electricity usage between 1 pm – 7 pm!

Adv

THERE’S NO OBLIGATION, AND NOTHING TO SIGN UP FOR.

Pub

The power to save is yours!

Inse Ad

Title

BGE.COM/SMARTENERGYREWARDS

If yo in e con at 4

The Afro-American, July 11, 2015 - July 17, 2015

Church delivered a uplifting, fiery sermon which was readily The Baltimore City Branch of the National Association for the Advancement of Colored received by the audience. People (NAACP), the civil rights, human services and advocacy organization, held its annual “Our Annual Prayer Breakfast is an opportunity for us to breakfast on May 9 at the Forest Park Senior Center on Liberty Heights Avenue. pause and give thanks for all of our successes and blessings,” The scheduled keynote speaker, Rev. Errol D. Gilliard Sr., pastor of Greater said Tessa Hill-Aston, president of the Harvest Baptist Church was Baltimore branch. unable to attend, and Politicians, religious leaders and Rev. J. Kevin James Jr., a community activists were in attendance young minister from Rev. Kevin James took for this annual event. Whitestone his sermon from I John Baptist 4:4, “He That is Greater Congressman John Sarbanes , Tessa Hill-Aston, president, is in Me” Baltimore City Branch NAACP and Bruce Bereand Carlton Gordon, and Rev. Albert Green

Eugene Clark, Joshua Harris and Del. Charles Sydnor

Tessa Hill-Aston, president, Baltimore City Branch NAACP, Joseph Aston and Jayne French

Firefighters Mike Jenson, chaplain, Gary Nelson and Kyle Caldwell

Councilman Carl Stokes, Father Ty Hullinger, Steven Golder, Roxie Herbekian and Gladys Burrell

Jay Smith, Lucinda Ware and John Cheatham, board member

Maxine Webb, Darlene Douglass and Joyce Sanders Kent Boles, Baltimore City Attorney, Tessa HillAston, president, Baltimore City Branch NAACP, Victor Clark and Alvin Gillard

Executive Committee Tyra Bristol, Ronald Flamer, Josephine Ball, Lenora Dawson and Carlton Douglass

Major Sabrina V.Tapp-Harper with Tessa Hill-Aston, president, Baltimore City Branch NAACP

Joyce Harrell, Derrick Lennon and Councilwoman Rochelle “Rikki” Spector

Anthony McCarthy, Jacqueline Alexander and Adrian Muldrow, vice president, NAACP Baltimore City Branch

Tyree Huddleston, Derrick Compton, Will Hanna, Betsy Gardner and Glenard Middleton

Reginald Gordon, Vincent Reid and Darrell Truesdale

Priscilla Jones sang to the audience’s delight, “Thank You Lord for all You've Done for Me”

Hassan Giordano, chairman, NAACP Criminal Justice Committee

Photos and text by Dr. A. Lois De Laine

On May 16th, the show Triumph of Disruption: A Movement to Subvert took place at the Baltimore Museum of Art. This event was choreographed and directed by Kwame Shaka Opare. One may know Kwame’s performances from his touring with the

Broadway show STOMP, which started in 1998; he attained the lead role and became rehearsal director for two touring casts. Moving forward with his experience in the performing arts Kwame founded (DishiBem) Traditional Contemporary Dance Group in 2003 to bridge the gap between traditional West African and contemporary performance

genres. This show, the fourth of which proved to be a riveting production, explored the current state of education for Black youth. Youth ages 12-17 from the DMV electrified that atmosphere with dramatic presentations, African, modern, and hip hop dance. It was a lightening bolt

of thought-provoking entertainment. Kwame, who played a History teacher of African Dance and American Culture, incorporated an inner city classroom-teaching atmosphere showcasing extreme disruption. We were treated to hot musical beats, singing kids, super energy from the cast acting out various scenes of distress in an urban school environment, and even received an impromptu visit on stage by local teachers. The high-pitched action and

dynamic tempo were a catalyst for the juxtaposition of education coming out of the chaos and disruption of the urban classroom, to being moved into the success of children learning to learn even in extreme conditions. This was enthralling and an authentic attempt to open the viewer’s perspective. I seriously felt as if I wanted to abandon my seat and join the cast on stage.

Amanten Opare aka DJ Kweek Dancer Diedre Dawkins

Kwame Shaka Opare and cast members Patricia Cruz, education director at Young Audiences in Arts for Learning Maryland and Kwame Shaka Opare giving special recognitions Sherry Hunt , soloist of The Empowerment Academy

Nana Yaa- Densua and Dr. Caleb Davis Singers of The Empowerment Academy

Performers of Triumph of Disruption

Triumph of Disruption cast ensemble

Karen Bradley embracing Kwame Shaka Opare The audience cheer the performances

Photos and text by DaRrell Privot

To purchase these photos and more visit the Photography page under the Arts and Entertainment tab on afro.com. To purchase this digital photo page contact Takiea Hinton: thinton@afro.com or 410.554.8277.