The Washington Informer - December 28, 2023

Vol 59 No 11... December 28, 2023 - January 3, 2024 Serving Our Community in the DMV

2024 Vision Statement: Being Intentional About the Change You Want to See and Be

By Micha Green WI Managing Editor

In Memoriam Dr. Calvin W. Rolark, Sr. Wilhelmina J. Rolark THE WASHINGTON INFORMER NEWSPAPER (ISSN#0741-9414) is published weekly on each Thursday. Periodicals postage paid at Washington, D.C. and additional mailing offices. News and advertising deadline is Monday prior to publication. Announcements must be received two weeks prior to event. Copyright 2016

by The Washington Informer. All rights reserved. POSTMASTER: Send change of addresses to The Washington Informer, 3117 Martin Luther King, Jr. Ave., S.E. Washington, D.C. 20032. No part of this publication may be reproduced without written permission from the publisher. The Informer Newspaper cannot guarantee the return of photographs. Subscription rates are $55 per year, two years $70. Papers will be received not more than a week after publication. Make checks payable to: THE WASHINGTON INFORMER 3117 Martin Luther King, Jr. Ave., S.E Washington, D.C. 20032 Phone: 202 561-4100 Fax: 202 574-3785 news@washingtoninformer.com www.washingtoninformer.com

PUBLISHER Denise Rolark Barnes STAFF Micha Green, Managing Editor Ron Burke, Advertising/Marketing Director Shevry Lassiter, Photo Editor Lafayette Barnes, IV, Editor, WI Bridge DC Austin Cooper, Our House Editor Desmond Barnes, Social Media Stategist ZebraDesigns.net, Design & Layout Mable Neville, Bookkeeper Angie Johnson, Office Mgr./Circulation REPORTERS Kayla Benjamin, (Environmental Justice Reporter) Stacy Brown (Senior Writer), Sam P.K. Collins, Curtis Knowles, Brenda Siler, Lindiwe Vilakazi, Sarafina Wright, James Wright PHOTOGRAPHERS Shevry Lassiter, Photo Editor, Roy Lewis, Jr., Robert R. Roberts, Anthony Tilghman, Abdula Konte, Ja'Mon Jackson

2 DECEMBER 28, 2023 – JANUARY 3, 2024

What a year 2023 has been for us all! Last December, I encouraged us to set the goal of making 2023 a “Jordan Year,” inspired by the legendary basketball player and entrepreneur Michael Jordan, who made the number 23 famous and a symbol of being the “GOAT” or “greatest of all time.”

Even despite life’s trials and worldwide challenges, did you do your best to make 2023 your greatest year yet? Consider some of the great things that happened in your life or the world this year, and after, think about some of the things that you want to change in 2024– in your personal life, the nation, and worldwide.

Now that you’ve thought about some of the things you want to see change in your life and beyond, here’s the good news, you can work to make a difference.

While each new year offers us an opportunity to make a change, 2024 is an election year. DMV residents will be placing ballots not only for candidates in federal roles, but major local and state positions as well.

Having already begun coverage on races such as the D.C. Council, the replacement for Sen. Ben Cardin’s (D-Maryland) U.S. Senate seat, and the presidential race, among others, The Informer is making it a priority to keep our audiences informed on all things election 2024.

We’re not only profiling candidates, covering debates and following numbers and issues, The Washington Informer is getting to the bottom of challenges that communities face and asking politicians tough questions about how they hope to address them. The Informer will highlight efforts to ensure people vote and examine issues that make voting challenging or even impossible for some U.S. citizens.

However, 2024 is not just about being intentional about making a change in the world. It’s about setting goals to be the best you possible.

Just like last year, here’s a basketball reference. The late, great Kobe Bryant, famously donned the numbers 8 and 24, both of

AS THE INFORMER APPROACHES ITS DIAMOND JUBILEE, I ENCOURAGE YOU TO WORK TO CELEBRATE YOUR OWN MIGHT, POWER AND VIGOR TO ACHIEVE ALL YOU’VE DONE AND WILL CONTINUE TO DO IN THE YEAR AHEAD AND BEYOND.

which are important to this year’s vision.

When adding the numbers 2+0+2+4, the total is 8.

Bryant explained some of the history behind 8 and 24 and the reasoning for the number-change when the Los Angeles Lakers decided to retire both numbers in 2017.

"When I first came in at 8, [it was] really trying to 'plant your flag' sort of thing," Bryant told Bleacher Report in December 2017. "I got to prove that I belong here in this league. I've got to prove that I'm one of the best in this league. You're going after them. It's nonstop energy and aggressiveness and stuff.”

According to Bleacher Report, Bryant’s decision to change his

number to 24 came after his former partner of the Lakers dynamic duo “Shaq and Kobe,” Shaquille O’Neal, was traded in 2004– creating a “clean state.”

"Then 24 is a growth from that," he explained to the sports outlet. "Physical attributes aren't there the way they used to be, but the maturity level is greater. Marriage, kids. Start having a broader perspective being one of the older guys on the team now, as opposed to being the youngest. Things evolve.”

In 2024, I encourage you to combine both of Bryant’s outlooks to make 2024 an even better year than the last. Find the freshness and newness that makes you still energized enough to aggressively go after the things you want, “plant your flag,” and be the person you want to be for yourself and the world.

Further, use the wisdom you’ve gained from 2023, and years before, to learn, grow and thrive into being the best you that you can be– from taking care of your health, being intentional about work-life balance or going after a dream job. Then, find ways to contribute your best to the community, nation and world– such as being an informed voter.

Finally, in 2024, The Washington Informer celebrates 60 years. In 2024, The Informer will be commemorating our six-decade-milestone through coverage, events and programming, leading up to the official 60th anniversary in October.

Known as a Diamond Jubilee, a 60th celebration honors strength, resilience and durability, all of which has been necessary in achieving almost six decades in business.

As The Informer approaches its Diamond Jubilee, I encourage you to work to celebrate your own might, power and vigor to achieve all you’ve done and will continue to do in the year ahead and beyond.

As the year winds down, be thankful for all that 2023 has offered you, and get ready to start 2024 like the energetic, wise, tough force you are, ready to make this new year the best yet.

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WEEK INSIDE THIS

Lifestyle Round Up / 26

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Black Facts / 32

Sports Round Up / 21 FOLLOW US ON

Political Round Up / 22

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DECEMBER 28, 2023 – JANUARY 3, 2024 3

4 DECEMBER 28, 2023 – JANUARY 3, 2024

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January

13-Year Old Karon Blake Killed

The beginning

of the year started

with historic firsts for

Karon Blake, a 13-year-old student who many describe as a lighthearted, charismatic being with a love for fashion, was killed during the early morning hours of Saturday, when a District resident allegedly shot him on the 1000 block of Quincy Street NE. The alleged shooter, later identified as Department of Recreation employee Jason Michael Lewis who called police after shooting Karon and performed CPR, approached Karon believing that the teenager was tampering with vehicles in the neighborhood. WI

Maryland and tragic

deaths that continued the conversation for

continued police

reform in the country.

Police Killings: Keenan Anderson and Tyre Nichols On Jan. 3, Keenan Anderson, w a 10th grade English and Language Arts instructor at Digital Pioneers Academy PCS in Southeast, D.C., died in a Los Angeles hospital hours after officers with the Los Angeles Police Department (LAPD) repeatedly shocked him with a stun gun and arrested him at the scene of a car accident.

5 Wes Moore is sworn in as Maryland's first Black governor in Annapolis on Jan. 18. (Robert R. Roberts/The Washington Informer)

Maryland Leadership Makes History: Wes Moore and Aruna Miller

5 Maryland Lt. Gov. Aruna Miller. (Richard D. Elliott/The Washington Informer)

Wes Moore and Aruna Miller made history on Jan. 18, beginning a historic term as Maryland’s first Black governor and first Asian-American lieutenant governor. With a star-studded inaugural ball and performances from the likes of Grammy-winning singer Maxwell and Club Quarantine’s DJ D-Nice, Moore didn’t hold back in throwing a major party before kicking off, what he promised to be, a term of hard work. WI

The devastating Jan. 7 video of Memphis police officers rehearsing their excuse for their deadly use of force, as Tyre Nichols’ lifeless body lay just steps away, painted a horrifying portrait of five cops who murdered a man for no apparent reason and then conspired to destroy his reputation.

Both cases drew attention to the challenges with policing in the country and inspired continued calls for police reform.

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DECEMBER 28, 2023 – JANUARY 3, 2024 5

February

ASALH Highlights Black Resistance

ASALH, the organization that founded Black History Month, chose “Black Resistance,” as its theme. In Black history, the continuum of resistance included establishing colleges and universities, hospitals, clinics, nursing schools, marches, demonstrations, boycotts, sit-ins and, creating songs, and lobbying elected officials.

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While Black History was certainly a major part of our coverage, we also reported on the D.C. Council, police killings, challenges facing

Black Advisory Neighborhood Commissioners Discuss Challenges

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Washingtonians, and the historic Black-quarterbackmeet-up at Super Bowl LVII.

Advisory neighborhood commissioners, who pour hundreds of unpaid hours into representing their single-member districts, spoke out about a lack of guidance and support from city agencies.

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D.C. Council Recognizes Black History Site in Georgetown Over the past few decades, as Georgetown grew in prominence as one of the District’s top tourist locations, the Mount Zion-Female Union Band Society Cemetery served as a reminder of the neighborhood’s rich African American history. It also inspired the D.C. Council’s commemoration of the cemetery’s 215th anniversary with the passage of a ceremonial resolution, approved by the entire council on Feb. 6, recognized the cemetery’s national significance as a sacred site.

WI THE WASHINGTON INFORMER / WWW.WASHINGTONINFORMER.COM

March

Departure of Deputy Mayor Falcicchio

With March being Women’s History Month, The Informer celebrated groundbreaking women, while also covering important issues in the District directly related to how D.C. approaches sexual harassment, statehood and

On March 8, the Mayor and the Mayor’s Office of Legal Counsel received an email containing a letter with sexual harassment allegations against former Deputy Maryor John Falcicchio, who resigned shortly after. Later in June, after an internal investigation substantiated the sexual harassment claims against Falcicchio. In October D.C. Mayor Muriel Bowser (D) signed an executive order that updates her previous mayoral order about sexual harassment in D.C. government. WI

policing protocols.

Revised Criminal Code Act The Senate overwhelmingly approved a measure blocking the Revised Criminal Code Act (RCCA), which caused major conversations for Washingtonians surrounding D.C. statehood. WI

Dalaneo Martin Slain by U.S. Park Police After 17-year-old Dalaneo Martin was shot and killed by U.S. Park Police on March 18, the teen’s family continued to ask a bevy of questions about the shooting. The U.S. Attorney’s office, in coordination with the FBI Washington field office, opened a civil rights investigation into circumstances leading to the teen’s death. WI

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7

Street Vendor Advancement Act

D.C. couple Shaun Stepney and Sunni Stuart, owners of Sunni Teez Kitchen, counted among those who celebrated the passage of the Street Vendor Advancement Amendment Act at the John A. Wilson Building in northwest D.C. on April 4, 2023. (Courtesy photo)

Local street vendors celebrated a victory with the passage of the Street Vendor Advancement Amendment Act, which decriminalizes street vending, sets up vending zones and spaces and streamlines a licensing process that had been criticized as expensive and complicated. This milestone was a major relief for many vendors. WI

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8 DECEMBER 28, 2023 – JANUARY 3, 2024

April

Eastern High School Celebrates 100th Anniversary

In commemoration of Eastern High School’s centennial, students, parents, faculty and alumni celebrated the launch of an exhibit that chronicles 100 years of the school’s rich history. The permanent exhibit, located in the lobby of Eastern High School, represents a collaboration between Eastern students and faculty and The Story of Our Schools, a local nonprofit dedicated to showing how local schools have accentuated D.C.’s history. WI

The Justins and the Tennessee General Assembly

Four months after an expulsion vote thrust the pair into the national spotlight, Democratic state Reps.

Justin Jones (left) of Nashville and Justin Pearson (right) of Memphis were reelected to the Tennessee General Assembly in August. Republicans voted to remove Jones and Pearson from the legislature in April for disrupting House proceedings with a gun control protest. But the two were quickly reappointed to the seats until this summer's special elections. In Nashville, Jones defeated Republican opponent Laura Nelson with nearly 80% of the vote for the House District 52 seat. In Memphis, Pearson defeated Republican Jeff Johnston with more than 90% of the vote for the House District 86 seat. WI THE WASHINGTON INFORMER / WWW.WASHINGTONINFORMER.COM

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DECEMBER 28, 2023 – JANUARY 3, 2024 9

Dr. Ben Vinson III Tapped as 18th President of Howard University A yearlong search for the next president of Howard University culminated in the selection of Dr. Ben Vinson III as the institution’s 18th president. In November, Vinson III was officially inaugurated and celebrated for his visionary leadership and dedication to bringing people together. WI

Talbert Terrace Residents Fight for Community Park

In a Ward 8 neighborhood, a muchloved green space previously owned by the community faced development threats after the District sold off the property in a tax sale. WI

May Despite challenges District residents faced– from housing to an uptick in gun violence– May came with exciting and historic moments such as the Greater Washington Urban League celebrating 50 years and The Informer’s founders being memorialized with an honorary street renaming.

Rolark Way CALENDAR POST PROMOTE SEARCH

The late Calvin and Wilhelmina Rolark, co-founders of the Washington Informer Newspaper, were honored with an honorary street renaming in Ward 8. The ceremony took place on May 18, which would have been Calvin Rolark’s 96th birthday, and was attended by several local leaders and activists. WI

Use the Washington Informer Calendar to post and promote your event or to plan your week with the area’s best events listing! https://www.washingtoninformer.com/calendar/ #/

10 DECEMBER 28, 2023 – JANUARY 3, 2024 3.85 x 5.5 in

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June

Smoke drifting into the D.C. region from Canadian wildfires shrouds the Capitol Building on June 8. (Kayla Benjamin/The Washington Informer)

June was dominated by

environmental concerns as

smoke from Canadian wildfires made its way to D.C., but there were a lot of A

major retail village opened in the Congress Heights

Canada Wildfire Compromises Air Quality

Wildfire smoke made it difficult for Washingtonians to breathe when stepping outside, causing particular health concerns for residents with respiratory challenges.

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neighborhood of Ward 8.

Maurice D. Edington Named UDC’s 10th President Maurice D. Edington was announced as the new president of the University of the District of Columbia. WI

Open-Air Mall in Congress Heights Opens with 13 Local Businesses Sycamore & Oak open-air mall debuted with 13 local Black businesses. WI WWW.WASHINGTONINFORMER.COM / THE WASHINGTON INFORMER

DECEMBER 28, 2023 – JANUARY 3, 2024 11

July

River Terrace Breaks Ground on Affordable Housing Developers, government officials and residents recently broke ground on what will soon become dozens of affordable housing units in the heart of the River Terrace community in Northeast.

The construction of this new building, known as 34Fifty, culminates years of meetings, zoning commission hearings.. WI

While school may have

been out for the summer, the District government

didn’t slow down, with major announcements about

affordable housing, public safety and city leadership.

5 Neighborhood Development Company celebrated development on energy efficient 34Fifty Apartments in the River Terrace Community located in Ward 7. (Ja'Mon Jackson/The Washington Informer)

Council Moves on Emergency Public Safety Legislation REQUEST FOR PROPOSALS – EVENT PLANNING SERVICES The District of Columbia Housing Finance Agency (Agency) is seeking the services of a contractor to provide event planning services.

The detailed RFP can be found at www.DCHFA.org/ business-opportunities. Deadline for submission of proposals is January 8, 2023 at 2:00 p.m.

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The D.C. Council’s Committee on Public Safety and the Judiciary, hosted a committee hearing about D.C. Mayor Muriel Bowser’s Safer, Stronger legislation. The 12-hour hearing inspired three emergency bills: the Prioritizing Public Safety Emergency Amendment Act, Law Enforcement Vehicular Pursuit Clarification Emergency Amendment Act, and Office of Unified Communications (OUC) Transparency and Accuracy Emergency Amendment Act. WI

Pamela Smith Tapped as MPD Chief

On July 17, Bowser announced Smith as acting MPD chief during a public safety meeting at Martin Luther King Memorial Library in Northwest. In November, the D.C. Council unanimously approved Smith as chief of the Metropolitan Police Department (MPD). WI

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12 DECEMBER 28, 2023 – JANUARY 3, 2024

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August As summer reached its

Vice President Harris Reveals Capital Readiness Program in Southeast

In a visit to Sycamore & Oak in Southeast, D.C., Vice President Kamala Harris unveiled plans to provide grants to non-profit and community-based organizations as part of the $125 million Capital Readiness Program (CRP) and announced 43 organizations selected as winners of the CRP. Funded through the American Rescue Plan, the CRP represents the largest-ever direct federal investment in small business incubators and accelerators.

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apex, Washingtonians celebrated important events and institutions that defined the city historically and culturally.

Ben’s Chili Bowl Turns 65

60th Anniversary of the March on Washington

The iconic Ben’s Chili Bowl celebrates its 65th anniversary. Later in the year, on Dec. 14, Virginia Ali, the co-founder of Ben’s Chili Bowl, had a 90th birthday celebration at the Lincoln Theatre. WI

Thousands of people gathered in D.C. to commemorate the 60th anniversary of the March on Washington. WI

From left: Yolanda Renee King, Andrea Waters King, Martin Luther King Jr. III, Rev. Al Sharpton, an unidentified marcher, Robert Smith, and Sacha Baron Cohen on the front line during the 60th-anniversary commemoration of the March on Washington at Lincoln Memorial on Aug. 26, 2023.

(Shedrick Pelt @sdotpdotmedia/The Washington Informer)

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DECEMBER 28, 2023 – JANUARY 3, 2024 13

Continuing the Legacy of the Four Little Girls Killed in Bombing

September The start of fall had Washingtonians remembering the past and addressing issues that its governmental institutions and businesses will be dealing with for years to come.

Through the lens of a native of Birmingham, Alabama present for the bombing at Sixteenth Street Baptist Church in Birmingham, Alabama, death of four Black girls in a Birmingham, Alabama church is remembered in the September 15 edition. WI 3 The Sixteenth Baptist Church in Birmingham, Alabama, where four little girls were murdered after the Ku Klux Klan set a bomb in September 1963 (Micha Green/The Washington Informer)

D.C. Council to Address Sexual Harassment in Government Agencies

The D.C. Council announced sweeping to address the problem of sexual harassment in the government. The District government is still grappling with the issue of sexual harassment and how to combat effectively within its ranks. WI

The Washington Convention and Sports Authority, t/a Events DC Bid Opportunity RLEGAL SERVICES Request for Proposal (RFP)

Tackling Shoplifting at Giant The Giant on Alabama Avenue SE receives public backlash for limiting products for sale to combat shoplifting. Customers at the Giant presently have to deal with bag checks by security and offering limited brand names. WI

APEX Bid # 22-S-004-839 The Washington Convention and Sports Authority t/a Events DC (the “Authority” or “Events DC”) is soliciting proposals from qualified law firms to provide Legal Services. Interested parties can view a copy of the RFP by accessing Event DC’s e-procurement website at www.wcsapex.com.

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Thursday, December 28, 2023 Wednesday, January 10, 2024, 5:00 PM EST Monday, January 29, 2024, 3:00 PM EST

Primary Contact Name: Gerald Green Email: ggreen@eventsdc.com Phone: 202-249-3028

14 DECEMBER 28, 2023 – JANUARY 3, 2024

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October

Shootings During Homecoming Festivities: Morgan State and Bowie State Universities

In the midst of spooky season, The Washington Informer highlighted important undertakings to raise awareness around Breast Cancer and Domestic Violence, while also sharing important community efforts.

Five students were shot and injured on the campus of Morgan State University following a homecoming program on Oct. 3, and university President David Wilson canceled classes and festivities for the remainder of the week. Then, on Oct. 6, a shooting at Bowie State University that injured two 19-year-olds during homecoming festivities, resulted in canceled classes for the entire following week. WI 3 Morgan State University students pray at a church near the northeast Baltimore school after an on-campus shooting incident on Oct. 3 left five injured. (WI photo)

Black Biking In October, the Informer highlighted Black Washingtonians riding bikes and e-bikes, as well as advocacy efforts to improve bicycle and pedestrian safety on Ward 8 streets. WI

Residents Unhappy about Shoplifting at CVS Columbia Heights

Shoppers at CVS in the Northwest D.C. neighborhood of Columbia Heights, were disappointed by the many bare shelves due to the high level of shoplifting that has taken place. The Ward 1 CVS serves as an acute example of the shoplifting activity gripping the District. In the District, Capitol One Shopping, a branch of Capitol One that examines retail data, revealed that in April, retailers in the city lost an estimated $108 million in annual revenue to theft — 26.3% less than the national average of retail theft per capita. WI

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November Ward 8 celebrated major events that will add to its character as a bastion of

Black history and culture.

Plus, a historically-based cultural ceremony at

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Good Hope Road SE officially became Marion Barry Avenue on Nov. 18, celebrating D.C.’s former mayor and Council member, affectionately known as “Mayor for Life. WI

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Georgetown University Commemorates 272 Enslaved People Sold by Institution

A libation ceremony commemorating the 272 slaves sold

by Georgetown University for the benefit of the institution was held by a student group dedicated to remembering the slaves and their ancestors on Nov. 5. WI

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December As the year wrapped, news about possible transitions for Washington sports teams rocked the city, while residents of the D.C. jail made a historic decision about local leadership.

Bowser, Council Chairman Fight to Keep Wizards, Capitals in D.C. Ted Leonsis, CEO of Monumental Sports & Entertainment and majority owner of the Washington Capitals and Washington Wizards, announced an ongoing deal that would move the teams from Capital One Arena to Potomac Yards in Alexandria, Virginia. D.C. Mayor Muriel Bowser (D) and D.C. Council Chairman Phil Mendelson (D) united around a last-ditch effort to keep the teams in the District with legislation that supports the renovation and modernization of Capital One Arena. If passed, the legislation, titled the Downtown Arena Modernization and Downtown Revitalization Act of 2023, will infuse a half-billion dollars into the creation of an arena that public officials hope will attract economic activity to Gallery Place-Chinatown, and downtown D.C. at large. WI

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DECEMBER 28, 2023 – JANUARY 3, 2024 17

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In Special Election, Shameka Hayes Elected as D.C. Jail Advisory Neighborhood Commissioner

Shameka Hayes, a resident of the D.C. Department of Corrections and Georgetown University prison scholar, defeated 10 other candidates to become the new commissioner of single-member district ANC 7F08. She is the first woman to serve in that position. WI

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18 DECEMBER 28, 2023 – JANUARY 3, 2024

5 Incarcerated citizen Shameka Hayes casts her ballot during the Advisory Neighborhood Commissioner (ANC) election.

Hayes was elected as 7F08 advisory neighborhood commissioner. (Ja'Mon Jackson/The Washington Informer)

THE WASHINGTON INFORMER / WWW.WASHINGTONINFORMER.COM

Living Unequally: Disrupting Health Disparities in the District status and the quality of and access to their healthcare.

By Louis Davis, Jr., AARP DC State Director Years of research have shown us that systemic inequities have blocked economic opportunity for some Americans and left others in poor health – even shortening their lives. These long-standing inequities include discrimination based on factors including age, race, ethnicity, gender, sexual orientation, geography, and income.

Regardless of the characteristic used to discriminate, disparities in the United States obstruct the health security and financial resilience that enable people to thrive equitably as they age, and at every decade of life.

That is why AARP is fighting at the federal, state, and local levels to reduce disparities, especially among Communities of Color and other vulnerable groups, and reduce wealth and income gaps by race and other factors.

IMPORTANCE OF DATA TO FIGHT HEALTH DIPARTITES

Federal, state, and local governments must improve their health-related data collection.

Jurisdictions should adopt common standards for collecting data, committing to the ethical and transparent use of data, and making this data more easily available to lawmakers, public officials, and the public. Broad health data will help decision makers, providers, and community health advocates track healthcare outcomes for different population groups and make necessary policy changes with the goal of promoting health equity.

That is why AARP DC has sought to gather data to help inform what is happening in the District.

In the spring of 2021, AARP DC and Georgetown Universi-

5 Louis Davis, Jr., AARP DC State Director

ty’s Department of Health Systems Administration released a comprehensive study on health disparities among Black older adults living in the District of Columbia. In the summer of 2023, AARP DC sought to update the study, The District of Columbia: An Empirical Review of Health Disparities in Older Black Adults. The newly released updated review includes current data reflecting the state of health equity in the District.

Key findings from the updated review include: • A 15-year age gap in life expectancy between those living in Ward 3 (86 years old) and Ward 8 (71 years old) • Preventable hospital admissions for Medicare enrollees are more than 4 times higher for older Blacks than older non-Hispanic white residents • Overall cancer mortality in Black residents is 2 times higher • Black women are 1.5 times more likely to die from breast cancer • The number of Black residents over age 65 who live below the federal poverty level is almost 5 times higher Additionally, AARP DC conducted an in-person survey of approximately 530 District residents. AARP Research helped craft the survey with the goal of gathering the thoughts and experiences on access and quality of healthcare among District residents 40 and older. The survey questions focused on the resident’s current health

Key findings from the AARP DC survey on access to healthcare include: • Residents 40plus living east of the river are about twice as likely to report having fair or poor health than their counterparts west of the river • Residents 40plus living east of the river are also about four times as likely to face barriers to accessing health care services in their community To read the full health review and survey, visit aarp.org/dc. We want to hear from you! To help AARP DC in the advocacy to disrupt health disparities, email DCaarp@aarp.org.

Underlying social issues, such as poverty and unaffordable housing, must also be addressed to begin to break the cycle of health disparities between the east and west sides of the Anacostia River. AARP DC will

continue to press for resources and collaborative partnerships between government, healthcare providers, community organizations, and others to make lasting improvements to healthcare infrastructure.

We're in Your Corner People today can spend nearly half their lives over the age of 50. That’s a lot of living. So, it helps to have a wise friend and fierce defender like AARP in your community.

Find us at aarp.org/dc.

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 /aarpdc @AARPDC

DECEMBER 28, 2023 – JANUARY 3, 2024 19

It’s Always the Right Time to Plan For Retirement Content sponsored by JPMorgan Chase & Co. Whether you’re just entering the workforce or plan to stop working in a few years, it’s never too early – or too late – to save for retirement.

Ideally, retirement planning and saving should start as soon as you get your first paycheck, but it’s easy to focus on more pressing expenses in your 20s, 30s and 40s, like paying for a house or raising children. By your 50s or 60s, however, you might feel you haven’t saved enough to avoid worrying about financial security in retirement.

There’s always time to make changes. Consider these options to protect your assets, build credit, and maintain and grow your investments for a financially worry-free future.

START WITH THE BASICS

No matter your age or current financial status, the following steps are the foundation of most retirement plans.

• Begin with a 401(k). If available, consider joining your employer’s retirement plan, like a 401(k). You can set up automatic deposits each pay period, and many employers will match your financial contributions, giving you more funds for the future.

• Consider opening an IRA. Find out if you’re eligible for an individual retirement account (IRA) and consider contributing

what you can. You can have an IRA in addition to an employer-based plan.

• Put your money to work. A general investment account has the potential to grow your savings even more.

PLAY CATCH UP

Understanding your current financial picture and planning for benefits, like Social Security and pensions, are important steps to figuring out how much income you may have in retirement.

If you’re nearing your projected retirement date and you don’t think you have enough saved to maintain your current or desired lifestyle, here are a few considerations to help get you in a better position.

• Make catch-up contributions.

Many tax-advantaged retirement savings accounts, like IRAs and 401(k) s, allow catch-up contributions for people 50 and over. That means you can contribute more than the government-set maximum each year, up to a certain amount, to make up for what you didn’t contribute in the past.

• Make sure you have adequate insurance. In addition to making sure your life insurance is current, look into long-term care and disability insurance before you retire to save money on future health care costs.

• Consider your home equity as part of the equation. If you plan to remain in your home, a home equity line of credit may be another option to fund certain expenses in retirement. If you choose to downsize to a smaller home, it may free up cash in your home’s equity for you to use.

• Tap other sources of income and equity. Do you have taxable broker-

age accounts or other general savings?

Include these funding sources, if you have them, when projecting how much you’ll have in retirement.

• Keep working. A growing number of people are working in semi-retirement and developing portfolios that produce passive income. Some might continue working full-time for longer than planned to build more savings. If you can generate enough income and are able to wait until age 70 to claim Social Security, it may allow you to maximize benefits over your lifetime.

MAKE A PLAN

No matter your current financial situation, set aside some time to review your options. There are many helpful tools, including articles, calculators and financial advice from professionals, to help you craft a roadmap to transition to your years in retirement.

Planning for your unique situation may help you get closer to

where you want to be in retirement, even if you don’t feel that you’re there yet.

For more information and online retirement articles, tools and calculators, visit chase.com/retirement.

The Newsletter Sign up to receive the JPMorgan Chase & Co. Money Talk Newsletter and stay up to speed with the latest financial wellness information.

20 DECEMBER 28, 2023 – JANUARY 3, 2024

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SPORTS ROUND UP

The Year in Sports: Black Quarterbacks Meet at the Big Game, Howard University Makes History, Commanders Get New Ownership Howard University had unprecedented success in athletics.

By Ed Hill WI Contributing Writer

In February, the Howard University men’s swimming and diving team won the 2023 Northeast Conference (NEC) swimming and diving championships.

Both the men's basketball team (in March) and the football team (in November) won conference championships and advanced to post-season play for the first time in school history in the same year.

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From this year’s Super Bowl including a historic match-up of two Black quarterbacks, to the success of Howard University athletics, 2023 has been an eventful year in sports. WI

Black History month was extra special in February, as sports history was made when Kansas City Chiefs quarterback Patrick Mahomes and Philadelphia Eagles quarterback Jalen Hurts became the first two Black athletes to start as quarterback in the Super Bowl. WI

The Sidwell Friends boys' and girls' basketball teams both finished number 1 in basketball in the DMV for the first time in March. WI

In May, longtime great and Hall of Famer Patrick Ewing was fired as head men's basketball coach at Georgetown after six seasons. WI

Longtime all-star and fan favorite of the Washington Wizards, Bradley Beal was traded to the Phoenix Suns in June. WI The National Football League owners approved the sale of the Washington Commanders franchise to Josh Harris and partners, including Magic Johnson, for a hefty amount of 6.05 million in July. WI WWW.WASHINGTONINFORMER.COM / THE WASHINGTON INFORMER

In December, Wilfried Nancy became the first Black coach to win the Major League Soccer (MLS) Cup. WI

DECEMBER 28, 2023 – JANUARY 3, 2024 21

POLITICAL ROUND UP

A Year of Political Fireworks: Trump’s Legal Odyssey, GOP Infighting, War and Congressional Expulsion remove a speaker from the U.S. House of Representatives. The last and only time Congress voted on such a measure was over a century ago, in 1910.

By Stacy M. Brown WI Senior Writer In a rollercoaster year of political drama, 2023 unfolded with Republicans engaged in a high-stakes power struggle, setting the stage for a cascade of events that would rock the political landscape. And while indictments and convictions permeated the judicial landscape, the U.S. Supreme Court also weighed in on several hotbed issues. And yes, Democrats also made significant news in 2023.

Kevin McCarthy: From House Speaker to Ousting

The year kicked off with a heavyweight bout within the Republican ranks, as Kevin McCarthy clinched the Speaker of the House position after a fierce battle that took 15 rounds of voting. The twist? McCarthy had to agree to a provision allowing any caucus member to trigger a vote for his removal. This move would come back to haunt him when MAGA firebrand Matt Gaetz seized the opportunity after President Joe Biden decisively outmaneuvered McCarthy in negotiations to avert a government shutdown that former President Trump, the MAGA prince, had ardently sought. McCarthy being ousted marks the first successful vote to 22 DECEMBER 28, 2023 – JANUARY 3, 2024

SCOTUS Decisions and Justice Clarence Thomas

On June 29, the U.S. Supreme Court struck down race-conscious admissions programs at Harvard and UNC, dealing a blow to affirmative action policies aimed at increasing campus diversity. The following day saw a setback for LGBTQIA rights as the court asserted the constitutional right to free speech allows certain businesses to refuse services for same-sex weddings. The high court later blocked President Biden’s plan to cancel $430 billion in student loan debt, but a June 8 decision delivered a victory for Black voters in Alabama, with the court finding the state’s Republican-drawn electoral map violated anti-discrimination laws, paving the way for increased representation in Congress. Notably, the court chose not to roll further back protections in the Voting Rights Act. Justice Clarence Thomas was called out in several news reports about his unethical acceptance of expensive trips and gifts, including GOP donor Harlan Crow purchasing a home for Thomas’ mother. The court later decided to write a new code of ethics.

THE WASHINGTON INFORMER / WWW.WASHINGTONINFORMER.COM

Republican Troubles in and out of the House: Mike Johnson and George Santos

Israel-Hamas Conflict

In October, the Middle East erupted in chaos and war, and the impact reverberated across the globe, with profound consequences for U.S. politics. The devastating toll of the ongoing war, marked by a surge in casualties on both sides, sparked intense debates and policy shifts within the United States.

As the conflict unfolded, U.S. political leaders faced a challenging dilemma in navigating the complex dynamics of the Middle East. Calls for solidarity with Israel clashed with demands for a more nuanced approach that considered the humanitarian crisis in Gaza. Protests erupted across major U.S. cities, reflecting the deep divisions among Americans regarding the U.S. stance on the conflict. Advocacy groups and citizens passionately expressed their perspectives, amplifying the pressure on policymakers to take a definitive view. The tragic loss of lives, coupled with vivid media coverage, brought the realities of the conflict directly into the living rooms of American households, prompting a reassessment of U.S. foreign policy in the region.

The Biden administration walked a tightrope, striving to balance traditional support for Israel with the growing demand for a more even-handed approach. Members of Congress engaged in vigorous debates, reflecting the broader polarization within the nation.

Trump: More than 90 Felony Criminal Charges

In terms of Donald Trump, the year began with the former president entangled in a legal web woven by New York politicians. E. Jean Carroll’s lawsuit against Trump resulted from a one-year look-back window that Gov. Kathy Hochul signed and opened in November 2022. The civil jury sided with Carroll, awarding her a hefty $5 million in damages. But that was just the tip of the legal iceberg for the wannabe dictator.

New York District Attorney Alvin Bragg upped the ante, bringing criminal charges against Trump related to alleged hush money payments intended to bury his extramarital affair with porn star Stormy Daniels. Special Counsel Jack Smith followed suit, indicting Trump separately for election interference and mishandling classified documents. Trump found himself navigating a legal labyrinth, with Georgia District Attorney Fani Willis later adding racketeering charges, alleging an attempt to overturn the 2020 election results in Georgia.

The twice-impeached former president will be facing 91 felony criminal charges in 2024, after a civil jury found him guilty of sexually assaulting a woman.

Remarkably, amidst these legal storms, Trump maintained a strong lead as the GOP’s top pick for the 2024 presidential nomination. Some polls showed him ahead of President Biden in a hypothetical general election matchup.

As the Republicans grappled with defending the events of January 6, 2021, and new House Speaker Mike Johnson faced allegations of using offensive language in a controversial book, the dramatic year continued for Republicans with the expulsion of New York Representative George Santos. Santos became the third congressman in the last 50 years to be ousted from the chamber, facing accusations ranging from lies and fraudulent activities to bizarre behavior.

Santos’s fabrications, including false claims about his mother’s tragic demise during the 9/11 attacks and contradictory statements about his religious background, were laid bare. The Department of Justice delivered a stunning blow with a 23-count indictment, charging Santos with conspiracy, wire fraud, making false statements to the FEC, falsifying records, aggravated identity theft, and access device fraud.

Democrats Victorious in 2023 Elections

For Democrats, the off-year election outcomes hold greater significance for 2024 than current polling, offering a more pertinent gauge for the upcoming elections regarding resource allocation, investment, and direct voter communication. The Biden-Harris team believes big wins in the November 2023 elections showcase the Democrats’ ability to outperform expectations. Biden eagerly monitored Tuesday’s election returns, keen on swiftly congratulating the triumphant Democrats.

In Kentucky, Democratic Gov. Andy Beshear secured a victory over Republican Daniel Cameron by skillfully navigating the state’s increasingly conservative landscape. Simultaneously, in Pennsylvania, Democrat Dan McCaffery triumphed in the state’s Supreme Court election, focusing his campaign on abortion and other rights. Virginia witnessed Democrats seizing complete control of the statehouse, dealing a setback to Republican Gov. Glenn Youngkin by emphasizing abortion access in legislative campaigns.

From winning the high-profile gubernatorial race in Kentucky to securing a pivotal ballot measure in Ohio and gaining majorities in Virginia’s state legislature, Democrats emerged as the prevailing force, placing the issue of abortion at the forefront of their successes.

What’s Next?

As the year ends, Trump’s legal battles and the GOP’s internal strife set the stage for an electrifying 2024 election cycle, leaving political enthusiasts waiting for the next chapter in this gripping saga that has American democracy on the brink.

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WWW.WASHINGTONINFORMER.COM / THE WASHINGTON INFORMER

DECEMBER 28, 2023 – JANUARY 3, 2024 23

OUR

EARTH ROUND UP

Smoke drifting into the D.C. region from Canadian wildfires shrouds the Capitol Building on June 8. (Kayla Benjamin/The Washington Informer)

2023 Climate Coverage: D.C.’s Environmental News During the World’s Hottest 12 Months Ever Recorded

By Kayla Benjamin WI Climate & Environment Reporter Cue, Earth, Wind and Fire, “September,” and sing along to this enviro-remix: Do you remember… that one really hot week in September? We were changing the climate, no question. And so we had a heat waaaave..

Ba-dee-ya, say, do you remember? Ba-dee-ya, the heat wave in September. Badee-ya, brought on by climate chaaange."

Musical jokes aside, the record-breaking highs the D.C. region experienced in early September this year illustrated a small taste of the temperatures that roasted the world in 2023. We’re finishing out the hottest twelve-month period scientists have ever recorded globally.

24 DECEMBER 28, 2023 – JANUARY 3, 2024

The heat supercharged natural disasters throughout the year, including wildfires, droughts, intense storms and flooding. The year’s extreme weather stems from a combination of climate change — caused by fossil fuel emissions trapping heat in the atmosphere — and a natural weather pattern called El Niño.

With 2023 providing a preview of how life could look on a hotter and hotter planet, global leaders took action. This year’s United Nations climate conference in Dubai surprised the world last week by wrapping up with a deal to transition away from fossil fuels. Closer to home, the District released its plan to become carbon neutral by 2045, while Mayor Muriel Bowser attended the UN conference in early December, too.

This was also the first full year of the Washington Informer’s dedicated climate and environmental justice coverage (shameless plug: you can find it most weeks in the Our Earth section). Check out a few of the biggest DMV environmental stories from 2023:

THE WASHINGTON INFORMER / WWW.WASHINGTONINFORMER.COM

June: Hazy Skies, Scratchy Throats

An unprecedented wildfire season in Canada enveloped the D.C. region in smoke for several days in June. The haze produced many apocalyptic-looking photos from cities all over the northeast U.S., and the DMV experienced multiple “code red,” or unhealthy, air quality alerts.

“The amount of pollution that we’re seeing… it’s insane, for lack of a better way of describing it,” Dr. Joseph L. Wilkins, a leading wildfire and air pollution expert and professor at Howard University, said at the time.

“This is something that folks aren’t accustomed to, and we aren’t meant to breathe this as humans.” WI

August: Flash Flood Causes Deaths of 10 Dogs at Canine Daycare in Northeast

July: Ivy City Neighbors Demand Chemical Plant Shut Down

When about two inches of rainfall fell over just 45 minutes late in the afternoon on Aug. 14, 10 dogs drowned after flooding broke the glass at District Dogs on Rhode Island Avenue NE. The incident caused furor over continued failures of D.C.’s 911 call center.

The District Dogs location, which is now closed, had experienced dangerous floods before, including in 2022. Just about a month after the incident, the city completed the Northeast Boundary Tunnel. That last piece of a massive underground tunnel project by DC Water runs right underneath Rhode Island Avenue NE and should alleviate flooding in the area. WI

Residents in the historic Black neighborhood Ivy City, in Northeast D.C., mobilized for environmental justice throughout 2023. In July, neighbors and community organizations organized a protest calling for the closure of a small chemical facility that sits right next to homes — in fact, it shares a wall with a house where a family with young kids lives.

Four months later, Ward 5 Council member Zachary Parker stood outside that chemical facility to announce his introduction of legislation to address compounding environmental injustices. Ward 5 contains about half of all D.C.’s land zoned for industrial use, and neighborhoods like Ivy City and nearby Brentwood often face pollution from both stationary industry sources and high-traffic roadways. WI

October: Pepco Pays for Pollution

The D.C. attorney general announced in early October that the city would receive $57 million for Anacostia River cleanup efforts in a major settlement with Pepco. The deal marked the biggest environmental protection settlement in D.C. history, according to the attorney general’s office.

In general, 2023 saw some important strides toward a truly clean Anacostia River. The Northeast Boundary Tunnel’s completion will prevent 98% of sewage overflows into the river. Armed with tests showing the water was safe, Anacostia Riverkeeper planned a swimming event, which would’ve allowed residents to legally jump into the Anacostia for the first time in 50 years. Sadly, the event was rained out twice. WI WWW.WASHINGTONINFORMER.COM / THE WASHINGTON INFORMER

DECEMBER 28, 2023 – JANUARY 3, 2024 25

LIFESTYLE ROUND UP

Arts and Entertainment in 2023: Commemorating, Celebrating Change, Making a Mark Hip Hop Celebrates 50 Years, Arena Stage’s New Artistic Director, Top 10 Exhibitions From Rihanna wowing crowds at the Super Bowl, to hip hop celebrating its 50th birthday, multiple allegations against Sean Combs, and several major exhibitions highlighting Black life, and culture, 2023 was an exciting, and at moments controversial, time for the entertainment world.

5 “We Who Believe in Freedom: Black Feminist DC,” runs at the Martin Luther King Jr. Memorial Library until September 2024. (Courtesy Photo)

26 DECEMBER 28, 2023 – JANUARY 3, 2024

5 Hana S. Sharif is the new director of Arena Stage. (Matthew Bailey/The Washington Informer)

5 Media mogul Oprah Winfrey (right) stands beside a newly commissioned portrait of herself that was unveiled at the National Portrait Gallery on Dec. 13, along with Chicago-based artist Shawn Michael Warren, who painted the portrait. (Ja’Mon Jackson/The Washington Informer)

THE WASHINGTON INFORMER / WWW.WASHINGTONINFORMER.COM

Rihanna Super Bowl

50th Anniversary of Hip Hop

After a seven-year hiatus, Rihanna headlined the Super Bowl Halftime Show, wowing crowds with some of her hit songs and revealing her second pregnancy. In May, Billboard announced Rihanna’s performance became the most-watched halftime show of all time, attracting more than 121 million viewers. WI

The Smithsonian celebrated 50 years of hip hop with a star studded concert on the mall, interactive activities and a specialty food court based on important milestones in hip hop.

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Beyoncé’s Renaissance Tour

All around the globe, people flocked to see Beyonce’s Renaissance World Tour, which according to the New York Times, generated about $4.5 billion for the American economy. She recently released a film version that made $21 million in the box office in its first week. WI

Local Sign Interpreters Shine at Roots Picnic

An entire group of American Sign Language interpreters from the DMV region served as the official ASL team for performances during The Roots Picnic in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. WI

Juvenile Celebrates ‘Back That Thang Up’ 25th Anniversary

A tune that has surpassed its promise “to take over for the 99 and 2000s,” Juvenile’s hit song “Back That Thang Up,” has proven to be a musical treasure for more than two decades. The Louisiana rapper, along with producer Mannie Fresh, were honored with Congressional proclamations for the song’s contribution to music and culture. WI

Anacostia High School Students Co-Author Environmental Poetry Book

Anacostia High School students co-authored the book “Through My Anacostia Eyes: Environmental Problems and Possibilities.”

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Milk & Honey Founder Chef Sammy Davis Jr.

Thompson Restaurants, owner of Milk & Honey in the DMV and other restaurants around the country, is expanding. Chef Sammy Davis Jr., who originally started Milk & Honey and still serves in leadership with Thompson Restaurants. WI

30th Anniversary of Bad Boy as Sean Combs Faces Sexual Assault Charges Bad Boy Entertainment, one of the most significant labels in hip hop history, celebrated 30 years in 2023. However, the four sexual assault suits against founder Sean “Diddy” Combs cast a pale over the company and threaten to end Combs’ illustrious career. WI

WWW.WASHINGTONINFORMER.COM / THE WASHINGTON INFORMER

Gladys Knight/ Betsch Cole National Medals Before getting National Medals in Arts and Humanities legends Gladys Knight and Dr. Johnnetta Betsch Cole talked to The Informer about the importance of empowering women.

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DECEMBER 28, 2023 – JANUARY 3, 2024 27

THE YEAR IN PHOTOS

5 Explore Kingman Lake by water while also cleaning up our river, Guided by Living Classrooms paddling staff, participants partner up and paddle on Kingman Lake in search of trash. Sheree Pendleton, Olivia Grace-4 years old and Hannah Belle-6 years old. (Robert R. Roberts/The Washington Informer) 3 Ben Chili Bowl owner Virginia Ali at her 90th birthday celebration on Dec. 13. (Roy Lewis/The Washington Informer) 3 Calvin S. Hawkins, II, Councilman at-large and Vice Chair, Sydney J. Harrison. (Robert R. Roberts/The Washington Informer)

5 Metro Transit Police Officer M. Garcia providing information about employment opportunities during the 2023 Citywide Jobs Not Recruitment Fair at the D.C. Armory. (Ja'Mon Jackson/The Washington Informer) 5 105-year-old Dorothy Boggess, AKA diamond member with more than 75 years of service to the sorority. (Robert R. Roberts/The Washington Informer) 4 Incarcerated citizen Harold Cunningham casting his vote during the Advisory Neighborhood Commissioner (ANC) Election. (Ja'Mon Jackson/ The Washington Informer)

28 DECEMBER 28, 2023 – JANUARY 3, 2024

THE WASHINGTON INFORMER / WWW.WASHINGTONINFORMER.COM

6Award-winning Film Director, Producer, and Screenwriter Spike Lee (r) and lead singer/bassist of Experience Unlimited band Gregory "Sugar Bear" Elliot (l) at the Ground-Breaking ceremony of the Go-Go Museum in Historic Anacostia.

(Ja'Mon Jackson/The Washington Informer)

5Wanda Durant and Bishop McNamara High School volunteers help to distribute the turkeys and all of the Thanksgiving items. (Robert R. Roberts/The Washington Informer)

3AMayor Muriel Bowser greets Ward 7 Councilmember Vincent Gray with Ward 8 Councilmember Trayon White fter the ribbon cutting for the Max Robinson Center. (Roy Lewis/ The Washington Informer)

5PRFitness Camp with Jovan Jackson ( center) and FITDC morning workout.

5Hands off DC

5Street unveiling ceremony at the corner of Foxhall Place and Xenia Street in Southeast naming the street Wihelimina & Calvin Rolark Way in honor of the Rolarks who had a long history of civic, business and community service in the District of Columbia. (Robert R. Roberts/The Washington Informer)

5The Emmett Till exhibit, "Let the World See" opened on Jan. 26, followed by a panel discussion on the past and future of the Black press.

Photo: Moderator, Ayesha Rascoe and panelist, David J. Johns, Denise Rolark Barnes, Vann R. Newkirk II and Dr. Amber A. Hewitt.

4 Hip Hop Caucus (Hip Hop and Politics: Activism,Culture Revolution and Entrepreneurship) fireside chat with rapper TI. (Cleveland Nelson/ The Washington Informer)

WWW.WASHINGTONINFORMER.COM / THE WASHINGTON INFORMER

DECEMBER 28, 2023 – JANUARY 3, 2024 29

In 2023, the world said goodbye to many leaders in arts, politics, activism, and the community– from Harry Belafonte and Tina Turner, to local legends such as Sandra Butler Truesdale and

Charles Ogletree

Maudine Cooper.

In Remembrance 2023 Wayne Shorter Composer and jazz musician Wayne Shorter died on March 2 at the age of 89.

Lance Reddick Actor Lance Reddick, of “The Wire,” and “John Wick,” fame died on March 18 at the age of 60.

Randall Robinson TRANSAFRICA Randall Robinson shined light on apartheid in South America during the 1970s, facilitated the safe return of exiled Haitian President Jean Bertrand Aristide and was an advocate for reparations before he died March 30.

Ahmad Jamal A jazz musician with a more than seven-decade year, Ahmad Jamal died on April 16 at the age of 92.

Torie Bowie (above left) Three-time Olympic medalist and world champion sprinter Tori Bowie tragically died due to complications during childbirth on April 23.

Harry Belafonte (top right) Renowned singer, actor, producer, and legendary civil rights trailblazer Harry Belafonte died at the age of 96 on April 25.

30 DECEMBER 28, 2023 – JANUARY 3, 2024

Jim Brown Jim Brown, the superstar Cleveland Browns running back who quit football at the very height of his Hall of Fame career to pursue acting, died at 87, on May 18th.

Linda Harlee Harper (bottom left) Linda Harllee Harper, the District director of gun violence prevention and the executive director of the Office of Neighborhood and Safety Engagement, died May 26 at the age of 58.

Tina Turner (top left) Tina Turner also known as the “Queen of Rock ‘n’ Roll” died on May 30 at age 83.

Dorothy Simms Fauntroy Wife to the District’s first Delegate to Congress and former New Bethel Baptist Church pastor the Rev. Walter Fauntroy, longtime First Lady Dorothy Simms Faunteroy died on June 18.

Dr. Mutulu Shakur Less than a year after his widely celebrated prison release, acupuncturist and Black liberation elder Dr. Mutulu Shakur died on July 6 at the age of 72.

Tommie Broadwater Tommie Broadwater, the first Black Senator from Prince George’s died on July 11, at the age of 81.

Tony Bennett Tony Bennett, the legendary singer whose smooth vocals and timeless classics captured the hearts of millions, died at 96 on July 21 in his hometown of New York.

THE WASHINGTON INFORMER / WWW.WASHINGTONINFORMER.COM

Sheila Oliver New Jersey was plunged into mourning on Aug. 1 as the news of the untimely death of Lt. Gov. Sheila Y. Oliver, the first African-American woman to serve in her role, shook the state.

Charles Ogletree Charles J. Ogletree Jr., a distinguished Harvard Law School professor, celebrated attorney, and leading civil rights advocate, died on Aug. 4 at the age of 70.

OT Blount OT Blount, one of the Ward 8 Woods Conservancy’s longest-serving park stewards and a dedicated leader in keeping D.C.’s forests healthy, died on Aug. 8.

Bishop Sweet Daddy Bishop C.M. “Sweet Daddy” Bailey, of The United House of Prayer for All People of the Church on the Rock of the Apostolic Faith, died Aug. 11 in Philadelphia while he was conducting the national convocation of the church that has 137 congregations nationwide.

Clarence Avant Lauded as the “Godfather of Black Music,” music executive Clarence Avant died on Aug. 13.

Ron Cephas Jones Actor Ron Cephas Jones of “This is Us,” fame died after what reports called a “long-standing pulmonary issue,” on Aug. 19 at the age of 66.

Rudolph Isley Rudolph Isley, a founding member and key figure in creating the popular soul group The Isley Brothers, died at 84 on Oct. 11.

Tasha Butts Georgetown University’s Department of Intercollegiate Athletics officials said they are mourning the death of women’s basketball head coach Tasha Butts at the age of 41 on Oct. 22 following a courageous two-year battle with breast cancer.

charged with arson and violence towards law enforcement, and spending nearly a decade in prison before their convictions were overturned.

Rosalynn Carter Former U.S. First Lady, philanthropist and co-founder of The Carter Center, Rosalynn Carter died on Nov. 19.

Bishop Carlton Pearson Bishop Carlton Pearson, a Christian minister, author, and gospel artist who shifted his religious beliefs to preach the “gospel of inclusion,” died on Nov. 19 after a brief battle with cancer.

Baba Oduno A. Tarik Baba Oduno A. Tarik, a prominent Garveyite, master teacher and horticulturist, died on Nov. 22 at the age of 76.

Ric Gordon Greenbelt Council member Brandon “Ric” Gordon, 41, a dedicated community servant, died on Sunday, Nov. 26.

Sandra Day O'Connor Sandra Day O’Connor, the trailblazing legal luminary who shattered the glass ceiling as the first female Supreme Court justice, died on Dec. 1 at the age of 93.

Norman Lear Legendary writer and producer Norman Lear, who had an unmistakable effect on American television over his six-decade career, died on Dec. 5 at the age of 101.

Andre Braugher (bottom right) Renowned actor Andre Braugher, celebrated for his compelling performances in iconic television series such as “Brooklyn Nine-Nine” and “Homicide: Life on the Street,” has died at 61 after a brief illness.

3 Dorothy Simms

Fauntleroy

Richard Roundtree Richard Roundtree, the iconic actor renowned for portraying the suave private detective in the groundbreaking “Shaft” film series, died at the age of 81 on Oct. 24.

5 Bishop

Sandra Butler Truesdale The Rev. Dr. Sandra Butler-Truesdale, a native Washingtonian and passionate lover of music, died on Oct. 28 at the age of 83.

Sweet Daddy

3 Jim Brown

Cooper

4 Andre

Maudine Cooper Maudine R. Cooper, a civil rights advocate, who worked for three D.C. mayors before becoming President of the Greater Washington Urban League died on Nov. 10 at the age of 82.

James McKoy James “Bun” McKoy, a member of the civil rights and political prisoner group the “Wilmington Ten”, died at the age of 69 on Nov. 10 after being falsely

5 Maudine

Braugher

5 Sandra Butler Truesdale 4 Rudolph Isley

WWW.WASHINGTONINFORMER.COM / THE WASHINGTON INFORMER

DECEMBER 28, 2023 – JANUARY 3, 2024 31

black facts

DEC. 28 2023 JAN 3, 2024 SOURCE: BLACK AMERICA WEB

JAN. 1

1804 – The Republic of Haiti declares its independence from France.

1831 – The first edition of the The Liberator, an abolitionist newspaper founded by William Lloyd Garrison and Isaac Knapp, is published.

1863 – The Emancipation Proclamation is issued

by President Abraham Lincoln.

1956 – Eastern African nation Sudan gains its independence from the United Kingdom and Egypt.

1990 – David Dinkins is sworn in as the first Black mayor of New York City.

1997 – Kofi Annan becomes the United Nations' first Black secretary-general.

JAN. 2

Innovative Signage Solutions to help you grow your business Official Sign Company of SILVER SPRING, MD

301.273.3462

Info@Signarama-SilverSpring.com

WASHINGTON, DC-North

DONNA SUMMER DEC. 21

1903 – Pioneering jazz pianist Earl "Fatha" Hines is born in Duquesne, Pennsylvania.

1954 – Academy Award-winning actor Denzel Washington is born in Mount Vernon, New York.

1977 – Karen Batchelor Farmer is nationally recognized as the first African-American member of the Daughters of the American Revolution.

202.506.2194

Info@Signarama-DCNorth.com

DEC. 29

1907 – Robert Clifton Weaver, the first African-American to be appointed to a U.S. Cabinet-level position, is born in Washington, D..C.

DEC. 30

1915 – Renowned scholar and historian John Hope Franklin, author of "From Slavery to Freedom" and recipient of the Presidential Medal of Freedom, is born in Rentiesville, Oklahoma.

1975 – Walter Washington is sworn in as the first mayor of the District of Columbia.

1991 – Sharon Pratt is sworn in as the mayor of D.C., making her the first African-American woman to serve as mayor of a major American city.

JAN. 3

1624 – William Tucker, the first recorded birth of a Black child in the American colonies, is baptized in Jamestown, Virginia.

1955 – Race car driver Willy T. Ribbs, the first Black man to compete in the Indianapolis 500, is born in San Jose, California.

1984 – The Rev. Jesse L. Jackson Sr. secures the release of POW Robert Goodman, a U.S. Naval pilot whose plane was shot down over Damascus, Syria.

WI

1892 – Physician Miles V. Lynk publishes the first Black medical journal.

1928 – Pioneering blues and rock 'n' roll singer and guitarist Bo Diddley is born in McComb, Mississippi.

1975 – Golf great Tiger Woods is born in Cypress, California.

1984 – Basketball icon LeBron James is born in Akron, Ohio.

DEC. 31

1900 – Famed African-American sculptor Selma Burke is born in Mooresville, North Carolina.

1930 – Folk singer and civil rights Odetta is born in Birmingham, Alabama.

1948 – Donna Summer, known as the "Queen of Disco," is born in Boston.

1972 – Baseball star Roberto Clemente is killed in a plane crash off the coast of Puerto Rico while en route to delivering aid to earthquake victims in Nicaragua.

32 DECEMBER 28, 2023 – JANUARY 3, 2024

DENZEL WASHINGTON

THE WASHINGTON INFORMER / WWW.WASHINGTONINFORMER.COM

horoscopes

DEC. 28, 2023 - JAN. 3, 2024

ARIES On Monday, one detail too many and they may all spill out of your head. It's fantastic that you have a new health routine, but it's important to make your mental health a priority as well, and shouldering more anxiety than you can handle is not a good way to go. The way out of your own head on Wednesday is to focus on someone else's needs.

To calm down on Thursday and Friday, try to concentrate on the speed at which grass grows. Your end-of-week introspection belies the kind of weekend you'll have: full of action, surprises, and surprising people.

Lucky Numbers: 3, 9, 12

LIBRA You never know where the next great idea is going to come from.

Be in listening mode on Monday, in every situation: when you're sitting across the table from a friend, when a radio or TV is playing somewhere in the background. On Tuesday and Wednesday, your attention to the outside world inverts itself, and you find yourself the subject of everyone else's interest (and, likely, their affection). But Thursday and Friday are colder days by comparison, more matter-of-fact and professional. Money is the dominant theme on Saturday, but Sunday is about idealism and good deeds.

Lucky Numbers: 3, 8, 10

TAURUS The texture of your day on Monday feels very nineteenth century: Endearment, courtships, gardens, art, and charm may all figure in some way. The scene thusly set, it becomes clear by Tuesday that you are the hero in this narrative. Wednesday is anything but dull.

The emotional climax comes on Thursday and Friday. If your life were a movie, there would be a moment of intensity, an argument or cataclysm, followed by rapturous passion, and on Saturday, a conversation about marriage. Maybe it sounds more like a Jane Austen novel. Anyway, Sunday sends you back toward real life. Lucky Numbers: 2, 5, 11

SCORPIO A small favor for a friend on Monday, something you barely even think about, will come back your way tenfold later in the week. In the meantime, Tuesday and Wednesday require patience. Decisions will be difficult, authority figures will be difficult, socializing will be difficult. But this is just a blip on the radar. By Thursday and Friday, the tide turns and suddenly you're the luckiest person you know. Magnetism, energy, and strength bolster your already formidable talents. Rebirth and regeneration are your themes on Saturday, and Sunday finds you taking risks. Lucky Numbers: 9, 20, 33

GEMINI Every time you add up the numbers, you get a different answer.

This is maddening. What you need is someone good at math. Delegating is essential at the beginning of the week, especially because Tuesday and Wednesday are going to distract you. Letting others handle things while you stroll through parks arm in arm with a certain someone is a deft maneuver. On Thursday and Friday, you find yourself making calculations again, although not of the mathematical kind. Emotional calculations. Your heart is aflutter. On Saturday, you're moving slowly, but you're speeding up by Sunday. Lucky Numbers: 2, 12, 20

SAGITTARIUS Just because your boss is being a pain early in the week doesn't mean you can take off after lunch and not come back. You have obligations to certain people. Thankfully, on Wednesday, your interactions with others are hugely rewarding. People are lavishing you with gifts. You are delirious with gratitude, which may explain why you're mostly lost in your own thoughts on Thursday and Friday. Your imagination is active and you're perfectly happy to be alone. By Saturday, you're puzzling over the big picture, but on Sunday, you're too busy playing games with friends to think about much of anything else. Lucky Numbers: 2, 6, 16

CANCER Your mind is racing at the beginning of the week, and you still feel like you're falling behind. Your world is moving full speed ahead.

Nevertheless, you enjoy the frantic pace. If you get a spare moment, you might try to have a nice one-on-one talk with a coworker, but you might have to wait until Wednesday for a second to even catch your breath. On Thursday and Friday, you're worthless when it comes to making decisions, and on Saturday, the slightest thing brings about a major personal crisis. On Sunday, regroup. Do something for yourself.

Lucky Numbers: 13, 31, 43

CAPRICORN The most useful information may come from far, far away on Monday, via phone or email. Your spirits are lifted (the added benefit of being in touch with an old friend). Anything is possible. That's the animating principle on Tuesday and Wednesday. On Thursday and Friday, you're so focused that you're able to separate out the white noise. Some of your best thinking may happen in a crowded restaurant. On Saturday, you detach from your social circle to such an extent that someone waves a hand in front of your face and says, "Hello, anybody home?" Sunday is a good day to reconnect. Lucky Numbers: 2, 45, 50

LEO You can afford an expensive lunch on Monday, but an inexpensive lunch will leave you feeling happier and more satisfied. You're more conservative than usual, but on Tuesday and Wednesday, you're also more social than usual, not a bad combination. You bring beautiful energy into a room. Romance figures strongly on Wednesday, but by Thursday and Friday, it's at the furthest reaches of your mind. Your family is much more present. Someone lifts a rock for you on Saturday and a whole new world comes into view. Get back to your love life on Sunday. Lucky Numbers: 19, 27, 49

AQUARIUS The sidewalk may be smooth and clean (smooth enough to roller skate on, clean enough to eat off of ), but what's going on below ground?

Is this path you're on as stable as you think? Skepticism is useful at the beginning of the week, but don't be so skeptical that others (wrongly) sense you judging them (this may happen on Wednesday). Thursday and Friday make for a slow end to the workweek. You feel funny about something, but it's hard to put your finger on what. It will become clearer to you on Saturday: It's related to the tension between privacy and exposure. Don't socialize until Sunday. Lucky Numbers: 8, 38, 57

VIRGO Now that your desk is tidy and a new award for outstanding performance is hanging on your office wall, what's next? That's the question on your mind early in the week. To what future projects shall you now apply your brilliance? On Tuesday and Wednesday, you are bubbling over with ideas, but you're set on making the next thing as deep and meaningful as you can. This would be a good week to solicit input from your friends, a wide variety of them. On Thursday through Saturday, you're lost in conversation, but family obligations on Sunday bring you back to solid ground. Lucky Numbers: 12, 13, 39

PISCES You are learning more about you-know-who every day, even on days when you don't see each other. The only problem with not seeing each other, though, is that it encourages you to overanalyze everything.

By midweek, you may have constructed an elaborate history of emotional deposits and withdrawals that frankly has little to do with the reality of your interactions with this person. So watch it. Calm down. Your late-week conviction that they are walking all over you may bear some truth, but broach the subject while granting them the benefit of the doubt. Sunday is a lucky day. Lucky Numbers: 22, 28, 58

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DECEMBER 28, 2023 – JANUARY 3, 2024 33

RELIGION The Miracle Center of Faith Missionary Baptist Church Bishop Michael C. Turner, Sr. Senior Pastor 9161 Hampton Overlook Capitol Heights, MD 20743 Phone: 301-350-2200 / Fax: 301-499-8724 Service and Times Sunday Worship Times : 7:30 AM 7 10:00 AM Communion: 1st Sunday Sunday School: 9:00 AM Bible Study: Wednesday, 12 Noon Bible Study in homes: Tuesday 7:00 PM Website: www.themiraclecenterFMBC.com Email: Miraclecenterfmbs@gmail.com Motto: “We Walk by Faith, Not by Sight”

Blessed Word

Pilgrim Baptist Church

Church of Living Waters

Rev. Louis B. Jones II Pastor

Rev. Paul Carrette Senior Pastor

700 I Street, N.E. Washington, D.C. 20002 (202) 547-8849 Service and Times Worship Sundays: 7:30 & 11:00 AM 5th Sundays: 9:30 AM 3rd Sundays: Baptism & Holy Communion Prayer & Praise: Wednesdays @ Noon & 6:30 PM www.pilgrimbaptistdc.org

Covenant Baptist United Church of Christ

Dr. Dekontee L. & Dr. Ayele A. Johnson Pastors

Reverend William Young IV Pastor

4001 14th Street, NW Washington, DC 20011 (202) 265-6147 Office 1-800 576-1047 Voicemail/Fax

3845 South Capitol Street Washington, DC 20032 (202) 562-5576 (Office) / (202) 562-4219 (Fax)

Service and Times Sunday School: 9:30 AM Sunday Morning Worship Service: 11:00 AM Communion Service: First Sunday Prayer Service/Bible Study: Tuesday, 6:30 PM www.blessedwordoflifechurch.org

Mount Carmel Baptist Church

901 Third Street N.W. Washington, DC. 20001 Phone (202) 842-3411 Fax (202) 682-9423 Service and Times Sunday Church School : 9:00 AM Sunday Morning Worship: 10:10 AM Bible Study Tuesday: 6: 00 PM Prayer Service Tuesday: 7:00 PM Holy Communion: 3rd Sunday 10:10 AM themcbc.org

Services and Times Sundays: 10:00am Worship Services Bible Study: Wonderful Wednesdays in Worship and the Word Bible Study Wednesdays 12:00 Noon; 6:30 PM (dinner @ 5:30 PM) Sunday School: 9:00 AM – Hour of Power “An inclusive ministry where all are welcomed and affirmed.” www.covenantdc.org

Mount Olivet Lutheran Church

“Friendliest Church in the City” Website: mountolivetdc.org Email: mtolivedc@gmail.com

Dr. E. Gail Anderson Holness - Senior Pastor Rev. Ali Gail Holness-Roland Assistant & Youth Pastor

12801 Old Fort Road • Ft. Washington, MD 20744 Office (301) 292.6323 • FAX (301) 292.2164 Service and Times Sunday Worship 10:15 am Sunday Church School 11:00 am Youth Sunday every 4th Sunday Prayer Call @ Noon every Tuesday & Thursday 978.990.5166 code: 6166047# Virtual Bible Study Wednesday Facebook & Zoom 7:00 pm “A Growing Church for a Coming Christ” www.adamsinspirationalamec.org

34 DECEMBER 28, 2023 – JANUARY 3, 2024

Service and Times Sunday Morning Worship: 11:00 AM Holy Communion: 1st Sunday Sunday School: 9:45 AM Men’s Monday Bible Study: 7:00 PM Wednesday Night Bible Study: 7:00 PM Women’s Ministry Bible Study: 3rd Friday -7:00 PM Computer Classes: Announced Family and Marital Counseling by appointment E-mail: Crusadersbaptistchurch@verizon.net www.CrusadersBaptistChurch.org / “God is Love”

St. Stephen Baptist Church

Third Street Church of God

Bishop Lanier C. Twyman, Sr. / Senior Pastor 5757 Temple Hill Road, Temple Hills, MD 20748 Office 301.899.8885 – Fax 301.899.2555 Service and Times Sunday Early Morning Worship 8:00 AM Sunday School 9:30 AM Sunday Morning Worship 11:00 AM Tuesday: 7:00 PM – Kingdom Building Bible Institute Wednesday: 12:30 PM – Mid-Day Bible Study Wednesday: 7:00 PM – Evening Bible Study Baptism - 3rd Sunday – Communion 4th Sunday Free Food Giveaway – Every Tuesday, 11:00 am – 3:00 pm “We are One in the Spirit” www.ssbcmd.org | secretary@ssbcmd.org

Campbell AME Church

2562 MLK Jr. Ave., SE - Washington, DC 20020 Adm. Office 202-678-2263 Email: Campbell@mycame.org

Service and Times Divine Worship, Sunday 10:00 a.m.

Communion 1st and 3rd Sunday

Rev. Dr. Alton W. Jordan Pastor 800 I Street, NE - Washington, DC 20002 202-548-0707 - Fax No. 202-548-0703

www.livingwatersmd.org

1306 Vermont Avenue, NW Washington, DC 20005

Rev. Dr. James Coleman Pastor

Website: www.allnationsbaptistchurch.com All Nations Baptist Church – A Church of Standards

Service and Times Sunday Service: 8:30am& 11:00 AM Bible Study: Wednesday 7:30 PM Communion Service: First Sunday

Rev. Terrance M. McKinley Senior Pastor

Adams Inspirational A.M.E. Church

Service and Times Sunday Church School – 9:30 AM Sunday Worship Service – 11:00 AM Holy Communion – 1st Sunday at 11:00 AM Prayer – Wednesdays, 6:00 PM Bible Study – Wednesdays, 7:00 PM Christian Education / School of Biblical Knowledge Saturdays, 9:30 AM – 11:00 AM, Call for Registration

4915 Wheeler Road Oxon Hill, MD 20745 301-894-6464

John F. Johnson Reverend Dr.

All Nations Baptist Church

2001 North Capitol St, N.E. - Washington, DC 20002 Phone (202) 832-9591

Harold Andrew Assistant Pastor

Crusader Baptist Church

Service and Times Sunday Worship Service: 10:00 AM Sunday Church School: 8:45 AM Bible Study: Wednesday: 12:00 Noon, Wednesday: 7:00 PM, Thursday: 7:00 PM “Reaching Up To Reach Out” Mailing Address : Campbell AME Church 2502 Stanton Road SE - Washington, DC 20020

Emmanuel Baptist Church

Rev. Cheryl J. Sanders, Th.D. Senior Pastor 1204 Third Street, NW Washington, DC 20001 202-347-5889 office / 202-638-1803 fax Services and Times Sunday School: 9:30 AM Sunday Worship: 11:00 AM Sunday Community Worship Service: 8:30 AM “Ambassadors for Christ to the Nation’s Capital” www.thirdstreet.org Live Stream Sunday Worship Service begins @ 12:00 noon www.thirdstreet.org

Mt. Zion Baptist Church

Reverend John W. Davis Pastor 5101 14th Street, NW / Washington, DC 20011 Phone: 202-726-2220 Fax: 202-726-9089 Service and Times Sunday Worship Service - 8:00 a.m. & 11:00 a.m.

Children’s Church - 11:00 a.m. (1st & 3rd Sundays) Communion - 10 a.m. 4th Sunday Sunday School - 9:15 a.m. (4th Sunday 8:15 a.m.)

Prayer Meeting & Bible Study - Wednesday 7:00 p.m.

“A Church with a past to remember – and a future to mold” www.mtzbcdc.org

Florida Avenue Baptist Church

Reverend Christopher L. Nichols Pastor

Dr. Earl D. Trent Senior Pastor

2409 Ainger Pl.,SE – WDC 20020 (202) 678-0884 – Office / (202) 678-0885 – Fax “Moving Faith Forward” 0% Perfect . . . 100% Forgiven!

623 Florida Ave.. NW - WDC. 20001 Church (202) 667-3409 / Study (202) 265-0836 Home Study (301) 464-8211 / Fax (202) 483-4009

Service and Times Sunday Worship: 8:00 AM & 10:45 AM Baptism/Holy Communion: 3rd Sunday Family Bible Study Tuesdays – 6:30 PM Prayer Service: Tuesdays – 8:00 PM www.emmanuelbaptistchurchdc.org

Service and Times Sunday Worship Services: 10:00 AM Sunday Church School: 8:45 – 9:45 AM Holy Communion: Every First Sunday Intercessory Prayer: Monday – 7:00-8:00 PM Pastor’s Bible Study: Wednesday –7:45 PM Midweek Prayer: Wednesday – 7:00 PM Noonday Prayer Every Thursday

Isle of Patmos Baptist Church Reverend Dr. Calvin L. Matthews Senior Pastor 1200 Isle of Patmos Plaza, Northeast Washington, DC 20018 Office: (202) 529-6767 - Fax: (202) 526-1661 Service and Times Sunday Worship Services: 7:30 AM and 10:30 AM Holy Communion: 2nd Sunday at 7:30 AM and 10:30 AM Sunday Church School: 9:20 AM Seniors Bible Study: Tuesdays at 10:30 AM Noon Day Prayer Service: Tuesdays at Noon Bible Study: Tuesdays at 7 PM Motto: “A Ministry of Reconciliation Where Everybody is Somebody!”

Website: http://isleofpatmosbc.org Church Email: ipbcsecretary@verizon.net

Greater Mt. Calvary Holy Church Bishop Alfred A. Owens, Jr. Senior Bishop & Evangelist Susie C. Owens – Co-Pastor 610 Rhode Island Avenue, NE Washington, DC 20002 (202) 529-4547 office • (202) 529-4495 fax

Sunday Worship Service: 8:00 AM and 10:45 AM Sunday Youth Worship Services: 1st & 4th 10:45 AM; 804 R.I. Ave., NE 5th 8 AM & 10:45 AM; Main Church Prayer Services Tuesday – Noon, Wednesday 6:00 AM & 6:30 PM Calvary Bible Institute: Year-Round Contact Church / Communion Every 3rd Sunday The Church in The Hood that will do you Good! www.gmchc.org / emailus@gmchc.org

Shiloh Church of God 7th Day Elder Jonathan M. Carson Senior Pastor

5701 Eastern Avenue, Hyattsville, MD 20782 Phone: 301 559-5262 Service and Times Sabbath Worship @ 1:00 pm in-person/FB/Zoom Tuesday - Prayer@ 7:30 pm on Zoom Wednesday - Bible Study@ 7:30 pm on Zoom Friday - Sabbath School@ 7:30 pm on Zoom Web: shiloh7thday.org Email: shiloh7thdaycomm@gmail.com "A culturally diverse church of edification, deliverance and transformation"

Holy Trinity United Baptist Church Rev. Dr. George C. Gilbert Senior Pastor 4504 Gault Place, N.E. / Washington, D.C 20019 202-397-7775 – 7184 Service and Times Sunday Church School: 9:30 AM Sunday Worship Service : 11:00 AM The Lord’s Supper 1st Sunday Prayer & Praise Services: Wednesday 7:00 PM Bible Study: 7:30 PM Saturday before 4th Sunday Men, Women, Youth Discipleship Ministries: 10:30 AM A Christ Centered Church htubc@comcast.net

THE WASHINGTON INFORMER / WWW.WASHINGTONINFORMER.COM

RELIGION Zion Baptist Church

Rev. Keith W. Byrd, Sr. Pastor 4850 Blagdon Ave, NW - Washington D.C 20011 Phone (202) 722-4940 - Fax (202) 291-3773 Service and Times 9:00 a.m. – Sunday School 10:15 a.m. – Worship Service Wed. Noon: Dea. Robert Owens Bible Study 7 PM Pastor’s Bible Study Ordinance of Baptism 2nd Sunday, Holy Communion 4th Sunday Mission: Zion shall: Enlist Sinners, Educate Students, Empower the Suffering, Encourage the Saints, And Exalt our Savior. (Acts 2: 41-47) www.zionbaptistchurchdc.org

St. Luke Baptist Church

Rev. Aubrey C. Lewis Pastor 1415 Gallatin Street, NW Washington, DC 20011-3851 P: (202) 726-5940 Service and Times Sunday Worship: 11:00 AM Sunday School: 9:15 AM Holy Communion: 11:00 a.m., 3rd Sun. Bible Institute: Wednesday - 1:30 PM Prayer Meeting: Wednesday - 12:00 Noon

Rehoboth Baptist Church

Rev. Lance Aubert Imterim Pastor 1251 Saratoga Ave., NE Washington, DC 20018 (202) 269-0288 Service and Times Sunday Worship Service: 10:45 AM Sunday School: 9:15 AM Holy Communion1st Sunday: 10:45 AM Prayer Service: Wednesday at 6:30 PM Bible Study: Wednesday at 7:00 PM Bible Study: Tuesday at 10:30 AM

Service and Times Sunday Worship: 10:00 AM Holy Communion: First Sunday 10:00 AM Sunday School: 9:00 AM Bible Study: Wednesday @ 12 noon and 6:30 PM Motto: "Faith On The Hill"

Eastern Community Baptist Church Damion M. Briggs Pastor

5606 Marlboro Pike District Heights, MD 20747 301-735-6005

Apostolic in Doctrine, Pentecostal in Experience, Holiness in Living, Uncompromised and Unchanged.

The Apostolic Faith is still alive –Acts 2:42

“Where God is Praised, Christ is Obeyed, and People are Loved”

New Commandment Baptist Church

8213 Manson Street Landover, MD 20785 Tel: (301) 322-9787 Fax: (301) 322-9240

13701 Old Jericho Park Road Bowie, MD. 20720 (301) 262-0560

Service and Times Sunday Worship Services: 7:45 AM and 10:45 AM Holy Communion: 1st Sundays at 7:45 AM & 10:45 AM Sunday School: 9:30 AM Prayer & Praise Service: Tuesdays at 12 noon & 6:30 PM Bible Study: Tuesdays at 1 pm and 7 PM Youth Bible Study: Fridays at 7 PM Web: www.mountmoriahchurch.org Email: mtmoriah@mountmoriahchurch.org

Service and Times Early Morning Message: 7:30 AM Sunday Morning Worship Service: 10:00 AM Sunday Church School: 9:00 AM Holy Communion: 1st Sunday 7:30 AM & 10:00 AM Prayer, Praise and Testimony: Wednesday 7:00 PM Bible Study: Wednesday 7:30 PM

Service and Times Sunday Worship: 11 AM Sunday School: 10 AM Wednesday Mid-Week Worship, Prayer & Bible Study: Wed. 7 PM

Promised Land Baptist Church

Historic St. Mary’s Episcopal Church

621 Alabama Ave., S.E.- Washington, D.C. 20032 P: (202) 561-1111 - F: (202) 561-1112

Foggy Bottom - Founded in 1867 728 23rd Street, NW - Washington, DC 20037 Church office: 202-333-3985 - Fax : 202-338-4958 Service and Times Sundays: 10 a.m. Holy Eucharist with Music and Hymns Wednesdays: 12:10 p.m. - Holy Eucharist

www.stmarysfoggybottom.org Email: stmarysoffice@stmarysfoggybottom.org

401 Van Buren St., NW, Washington D.C. 20012 Office (202)-882-8331 Service and Times Sunday Worship 10:30 am Zoom: zoom.us/;/2028828331 Bible Study: Wednesday 7:00pm Communion Every First Sunday

"Serve, teach and Live by precept and example the saving grace of Jesus Christ."

All are welcome to St. Mary’s to Learn, Worship, and Grow.

“A Church Where Love Is Essential and Praise is Intentional”

First Rising Mt. Zion Baptist Church

Rev Kevin A. O'Bryant Pastor

Website: Theplbc.org Email: churchclerk@theplbc.org

Dr. Joseph D. Turner Senior Pastor

Service and Times Sunday Apostolic Worship Services 11:00 A.M and 5:00 PM Communion and Feet Wash 4th Sunday at 5:00 PM Prayer/Seeking: Wednesday at 8:00 PM

Rev. Stephen E. Tucker Senior Pastor

“Real Worship for Real People” Website: www.easterncommunity.org Email: ecc@easterncommunity.org

Matthews Memorial Baptist Church

2616 MLK Ave., SE - Washington, DC 20020 Office 202-889-3709 - Fax 202-678-3304 Service and Times Sunday Worship Service: 9:30 AM Holy Communion: 1st Sunday 9:30 AM Sunday School: 8:15 AM Bible Study: Wednesdays at Noon Baptism: 4th Sunday 9:30 AM

1636 East Capitol Street, NE Washington, DC 20003 Telephone: 202-544-5588 - Fax: 202-544-2964

The Rev. E. Bernard Anderson Priest

Motto: “Where God is First and Where Friendly People Worship”

1301 North Carolina Ave. N E Washington, D C 20002 202 543 1318 - lincolnpark@lpumcdc.org www.lpumcdc.org

Dr. Lucius M. Dalton Senior Pastor

Sermon On The Mount Temple Of Joy Apostolic Faith Elder Herman L. Simms Pastor

Rev. Richard B. Black Interim Pastor

Mount Moriah Baptist Church

Rev. Curtis l. Staley Pastor

Service and Times Sunday Service: 10:00 AM Sunday School for all ages: 8:30 AM 1st Sunday Baptism: 10:00 AM 2nd Sunday Holy Communion:10:00 AM Tuesday: Bible Study: 6:30 PM Prayer Meeting: 7:45 PM

Lincoln Park United Methodist Church

Israel Baptist Church

Website address: www.mmbcdc.org

Peace Baptist Church Rev. Dr. Michael T. Bell 712 18th Street, NE Washington, DC 20002 Phone 202-399-3450/ Fax 202-398-8836 Service and Times Sunday Early Morning Prayer & Bible Study Class: 8:00 AM Sunday School: 9:00 AM Sunday Morning Worship Service: 10:00 AM Wednesday Service: 12:00 PM “The Loving Church of the living lord “ Email Address: admin@pbc712.org

Mt. Horeb Baptist Church

Rev. Oran W. Young Pastor

Rev. Dr. H. B. Sampson, III Pastor

602 N Street NW - Washington, D.C. 20001 Office:(202) 289-4480 Fax: (202) 289-4595

2914 Bladensburg Road, NE Wash., DC 20018 Office: (202) 529-3180 - Fax: (202) 529-7738 Service and Times Worship Service: 7:30 AM Sunday School: 9:00 AM Worship Service: 10:30 AM Holy Communion: 4th Sunday 7:30AM & 10:30 AM Prayer Services:Tuesday 7:30 PM. Wednesday 12 Noon

Service and Times Sunday School for All Ages: 8:00 AM Sunday Worship Services: 9:30 AM Midday Prayer & Bible Study: Wednesday 11:30AM Evening Prayer & Bible Study: Wednesday 7:00 PM Laymen's League: Thursday 7:00 PM Email: Froffice@firstrising.org Website: www.firstrising.org “Changing Lives On Purpose “

Email:mthoreb@mthoreb.org Website:www.mthoreb.org For further information, please contact me at (202) 529-3180

Pennsylvania Ave. Baptist Church Rev. Dr. Kendrick E. Curry Pastor 3000 Pennsylvania Ave.. S.E Washington, DC 20020 202 581-1500 Service and Times Sunday Church School: 9:30 AM Sunday Worship Service: 11:00 AM Monday Adult Bible Study: 7:00 PM Wednesday Youth & Adult Activities: 6:30 PM Prayer Service Bible Study

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DECEMBER 28, 2023 – JANUARY 3, 2024 35

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Lambert Samuel Joyner III, whose address is 305 Meadow Way, Landover, Maryland 20785, was appointed Personal Representative of the estate of Irene H. Joyner who died on 5/9/2023 with a Will and will serve without Court supervision. All unknown heirs and heirs whose whereabouts are unknown shall enter their appearance in this proceeding. Objections to such appointment (or to the probate of decedent’s Will) shall be filed with the Register of Wills, D.C., 515 5th Street, N.W., Building A, Third Floor Washington, D.C. 20001, on or before 6/21/2024. Claims against the decedent shall be presented to the undersigned with a copy to the Register of Wills or filed with the Register of Wills with a copy to the undersigned, on or before 6/21/2024, or be forever barred. Persons believed to be heirs or legatees of the decedent who do not receive a copy of this notice by mail within 25 days of its first publication shall so inform the Register of Wills, including name, address, and relationship.

Date of first publication: 12/21/2023 Lambert Samuel Joyner III Personal Representative

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36 DECEMBER 28, 2023 – JANUARY 3, 2024

Legal Notice Notice of an unregistered claim by a private living man, sovereign by the grace of God, their name written in the Book of the Tree of Life, beneficiary in original jurisdiction now coming as Grantor/Settler with Notice of Unregistered Claim, or priority equitable right, title and interest in the John Troy Williams Estate, New York File number- 156-71-123639, including all assets, attributes, derivatives and transmutations thereof. For more on the nature of the claim see https://everify.americanstatenationals.us Recorder Number # 2023-Fut90a15-Ca-231110-037-00000157

SUPERIOR COURT OF THE DISTRICT OF COLUMBIA Probate Division Washington, D.C. 20001-2131 2023 ADM 000975 William A. Burnett aka William Aaron Burnett aka William Burnett Decedent Samuel C. Hamilton, Esq. 8601 Georgia Ave. #503 Silver Spring, MD 20910 Attorney NOTICE OF APPOINTMENT, NOTICE TO CREDITORS AND NOTICE TO UNKNOWN HEIRS Phyllis S. Burnett, whose address is 5514 8th St. NW, Washington, DC 20011, was appointed Personal Representative of the estate of William A. Burnett aka William Aaron Burnett aka William Burnett who died on 11/10/2015 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., Building A, Third Floor Washington, D.C. 20001, on or before 6/21/2024. Claims against the decedent shall be presented to the undersigned with a copy to the Register of Wills or filed with the Register of Wills with a copy to the undersigned, on or before 6/21/2024, or be forever barred. Persons believed to be heirs or legatees of the decedent who do not receive a copy of this notice by mail within 25 days of its first publication shall so inform the Register of Wills, including name, address, and relationship.

Date of first publication: 12/21/2023 Phyllis S. Burnett Personal Representative

Stacy R. Pace, Esq. 1629 K Street, NW Ste. 300 Washington, DC 20006 Attorney NOTICE OF APPOINTMENT, NOTICE TO CREDITORS AND NOTICE TO UNKNOWN HEIRS Sandra Marian Irish-Oien, whose address is 12281 41st Street, Saint Michael, MN 55376, was appointed Personal Representative of the estate of James Edward Jacobson aka James Jacobson who died on 12/30/2022 with 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., Building A, Third Floor Washington, D.C. 20001, on or before 6/14/2024. Claims against the decedent shall be presented to the undersigned with a copy to the Register of Wills or filed with the Register of Wills with a copy to the undersigned, on or before 6/14/2024, or be forever barred.

Persons believed to be heirs or legatees of the decedent who do not receive a copy of this notice by mail within 25 days of its first publication shall so inform the Register of Wills, including name, address, and relationship.

Date of first publication: 12/14/2023 Sandra Marian Irish-Oien Personal Representative TRUE TEST COPY Nicole Stevens Register of Wills Washington Informer

Ethel Mitchell 8403 Colesville Road Suite 1100 Silver Spring, MD 20910 Attorney NOTICE OF APPOINTMENT, NOTICE TO CREDITORS AND NOTICE TO UNKNOWN HEIRS Edna B. Bostic, whose address is 3408 23rd Parkway, Temple Hills, MD 20748, was appointed Personal Representative of the estate of McDonald Bullock who died on August 17, 2023 with a Will and will serve without Court supervision. All unknown heirs and heirs whose whereabouts are unknown shall enter their appearance in this proceeding. Objections to such appointment (or to the probate of decedent’s Will) shall be filed with the Register of Wills, D.C., 515 5th Street, N.W., Building A, Third Floor Washington, D.C. 20001, on or before 6/21/2024. Claims against the decedent shall be presented to the undersigned with a copy to the Register of Wills or filed with the Register of Wills with a copy to the undersigned, on or before 6/21/2024, or be forever barred. Persons believed to be heirs or legatees of the decedent who do not receive a copy of this notice by mail within 25 days of its first publication shall so inform the Register of Wills, including name, address, and relationship.

Date of first publication: 12/21/2023 Edna B. Bostic Personal Representative TRUE TEST COPY Nicole Stevens Register of Wills Washington Informer

SUPERIOR COURT OF THE DISTRICT OF COLUMBIA Probate Division Washington, D.C. 20001-2131

SUPERIOR COURT OF THE DISTRICT OF COLUMBIA Probate Division Washington, D.C. 20001-2131

2023 ADM 1430

2023 ADM 001353

Alice Washington Wilson Decedent

Lintung Liu Decedent

NOTICE OF APPOINTMENT, NOTICE TO CREDITORS AND NOTICE TO UNKNOWN HEIRS Clifford L. Wilson Sr., whose address is 11007 Ibis Lane, Upper Marlboro, MD 20772, was appointed Personal Representative of the estate of Alice Washington Wilson who died on 9/23/2023 with a Will and will serve without Court supervision.

All unknown heirs and heirs whose whereabouts are unknown shall enter their appearance in this proceeding. Objections to such appointment (or to the probate of decedent’s Will) shall be filed with the Register of Wills, D.C., 515 5th Street, N.W., Building A, Third Floor Washington, D.C. 20001, on or before 6/28/2024. Claims against the decedent shall be presented to the undersigned with a copy to the Register of Wills or filed with the Register of Wills with a copy to the undersigned, on or before 6/28/2024, or be forever barred. Persons believed to be heirs or legatees of the decedent who do not receive a copy of this notice by mail within 25 days of its first publication shall so inform the Register of Wills, including name, address, and relationship.

Date of first publication: 12/28/2023 Clifford L. Wilson Sr. Personal Representative

NOTICE OF APPOINTMENT, NOTICE TO CREDITORS AND NOTICE TO UNKNOWN HEIRS Lily Liu, whose address is 2939 Van Ness Street NW #626, Washington DC 20008-4619, was appointed Personal Representative of the estate of Lintung Liu who died on April 16, 2023 with a Will and will serve without Court supervision.

All unknown heirs and heirs whose whereabouts are unknown shall enter their appearance in this proceeding. Objections to such appointment (or to the probate of decedent’s Will) shall be filed with the Register of Wills, D.C., 515 5th Street, N.W., Building A, Third Floor Washington, D.C. 20001, on or before 6/28/2024. Claims against the decedent shall be presented to the undersigned with a copy to the Register of Wills or filed with the Register of Wills with a copy to the undersigned, on or before 6/28/2024, or be forever barred. Persons believed to be heirs or legatees of the decedent who do not receive a copy of this notice by mail within 25 days of its first publication shall so inform the Register of Wills, including name, address, and relationship.

Date of first publication: 12/28/2023 Lily Liu Personal Representative TRUE TEST COPY

TRUE TEST COPY Nicole Stevens Register of Wills

Nicole Stevens Register of Wills Washington Informer

Washington Informer

TRUE TEST COPY Nicole Stevens Register of Wills Washington Informer

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Happy 40th Anniversary, WAFF! 2023 was a memorable year at Washington Gas as we observed 175 years of safe, reliable energy service across the DMV. Alongside this once-in-a-lifetime event, the Washington Area Fuel Fund (WAFF) celebrated 40 years of helping families keep their homes comfortable during the winter.

WAFF is open to qualified residents who need help warming their homes, regardless of their heating method. Washington Gas covers all administrative fees, meaning 100% of donations go directly to those in need.

This gap in winter warmth is urgent and ongoing. Underserved households spend more than 30% of their income on energy bills. In the DMV, about 16.5% of DC-area families live at or below the poverty line.

“Since 1983, WAFF has provided about $34 million to help nearly 100,000 households stay warm during the winter,” said program manager Alexandra Balbuena Alleyne. “WAFF can help even when other aid may not be available. We’re honored to support reliable warmth for thousands of DMV families.”

The value of reliable home energy resonates far beyond physical comfort. It means warmth and brightness to cheer long, dark days. It’s the pleasure of hot showers, fresh laundry and clean dishes. It’s the joy of hot meals at kitchen tables where families gather to share their days.

Dependable energy supports

living life, not just enduring it and hoping for better days. For $500, a family can warm their household all winter.

If you’ve strolled through the Wharf DC this season, you might have noticed festive signs of WAFF’s “Spread Warmth” campaign. From sponsorship of the sparkling DC District Boat Parade to comfy chairs and s’mores at the Wharf firepit, WAFF warmth and holiday spirit go hand-in-hand.

Please stop by to enjoy the season and to support our neighbors with a donation in any amount.

WAFF’s 40th anniversary year saw many special community events, and one of the most memorable was September’s “Party With a Purpose” at the Washington National Cathedral. Sponsors and community supporters came together for a heartfelt evening, contributing nearly $1 million to #spreadwarmth.

We’re close to meeting this life-changing goal, and you can help us cross the finish line! Visit https://givebutter.com/SpreadWarmth or scan this page's QR code to donate to help local families. Or, if you choose to text your donation, please text SPREADWARMTH to 53-555. WAFF donations are tax-deductible.

For more upcoming events and ways to join WAFF in supporting area households, please visit our website at https://washingtonareafuelfund.org/ or follow our social media channels. Let's continue this journey of warmth and support to make a difference in the lives of our DMV communities.

THE FUTURE OF ENERGY

As Washington Gas leads the way toward our collective energy future, we’re pursuing emerging technologies that will increase reliability and affordability. While this is critical for every household, it especially applies to those struggling to meet their energy bills.

For example, consider the benefits of renewable natural gas (RNG). Because harnessing biogas from organic waste helps create a more balanced energy mix, integrating RNG into our energy portfolio can help stabilize supply.

In turn, improved dependability can translate to fewer households needing emergency assistance during winter months and help extend the reach and impact of programs like WAFF. Stability makes energy bills more predictable and manageable—an asset to all families, particularly those facing unexpected financial challenges.

Washington Gas is committed to innovations that strengthen the future of our communities, our nation, and our world. While these technologies are intricate, our mission is simple: to provide safe, reliable and affordable ener-

gy for everyone, no matter what challenges life might bring.

We wish you a safe and happy holiday season. Thank you

for making 2023 a year to remember, and we look forward to serving you in the future.

Do you or someone you know need help with your energy bill?

Visit washingtongascares.com or scan the QR code on this page to explore options for financial assistance and bill payment options.

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