The Washington Informer - August 15, 2024

Joe Bowser: A Community Leader who Loved the City Beyond the Monuments

By Hamil R. Harris

WI Contributing Writer

The intersection of 12th and Monroe Streets NE was a crossroads of community pride as hundreds packed St. Anthony’s Catholic Church to bid farewell to Joseph “Joe” Bowser, who died on Aug. 3. A neighborhood leader, Bowser’s passion for the community rubbed off on his family, catapulting his daughter D.C. Mayor Muriel Bowser

BOWSER Page 42

5 While The Residences at St. Elizabeths promised to accentuate a burgeoning Congress Heights neighborhood, tenants such as Donald Williams continue to complain about broken doors, clogged sewage systems, basement flooding and a bevy of other issues. (Ja’Mon Jackson/The Washington Informer)

Public Charter School Summer Graduates Tout Critical Family, Friend Support

By Sam P.K. Collins WI Staff Writer

Warren Patrick’s friends surrounded him in the lobby of Capital Turnaround and cheered as he smirked and took several photos. All this in celebration of a delayed, but very significant milestone: public charter school summer graduation.

Earlier that afternoon, Patrick, wearing his burgundy graduation cap and gown, kente stole, Cartier

CHARTER SCHOOL Page 42

By Sam P.K. Collins WI Staff Writer

Tenants at St. Elizabeths East Fight for Improved Living Conditions

This fall will mark five years since the Anacostia Economic Development Corporation completed the conversion of the psychiatric hospital on St. Elizabeths East Campus into more than 200 units of affordable housing.

While these new apartments, known as The Residences at St. Elizabeths, promised to accentuate a burgeoning Congress Heights neighborhood, tenants continue to complain about broken doors, clogged sewage systems, basement flooding and a bevy of other issues.

Some tenants, like Donald Williams, said that not even the

TENANTS Page 29

Pierre Batchler, owner of Paradyce at Sycamore & Oak in Southeast, D.C, with Nina Albert, deputy mayor for Planning and Economic Development and Rosemary Suggs-Evans, director of the D.C. Department of Small and Local Business Development on Aug. 13. (Ja’Mon Jackson/The Washington Informer)

By James Wright WI Staff Writer

Dontay Brown loves to talk about his business, Triceys DC Café, located at Sycamore & Oak retail village on the campus of St. Elizabeths East in Southeast, D.C. When he heard that members of District Mayor Muriel Bowser’s administration would be stopping by the site on Aug. 13

BLACK BUSINESS Page 18

Celebrating 59 years. Your credible and trusted source for Black news and information.

5

WI Back To School Supplement Center Section

5Warren Patrick from Thurgood Marshall Academy receives his diploma during the public charter school summer graduation on Aug. 9. (Robert R. Roberts/ The Washington Informer)

5After the funeral service for her father, community leader Joseph “Joe Bowser,” D.C. Mayor Muriel Bowser, her mother Joan Bowser and other family members exit St. Anthony’s Catholic Church, behind the casket. (Roy Lewis/The Washington Informer)

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

In Memoriam Dr. Calvin W. Rolark, Sr. Wilhelmina J. Rolark

PUBLISHER

Denise Rolark Barnes

STAFF

Micha Green, Managing Editor

Ron Burke, Advertising/Marketing Director

Shevry Lassiter, WIN-TV Producer

Ra-Jah Kelly, Digital Asset Manager

Lafayette Barnes, IV, Editor, WI Bridge DC

Desmond Barnes, WIN Daily Editor

Anthony Tilghman, Social Media Strategist

ZebraDesigns.net, Graphic Design

Mable Neville, Bookkeeper

Angie Johnson, Office/Circulation Manager

REPORTERS

Stacy Brown, National Reporter

Sam P.K. Collins, Political/Education Reporter

Zerline Hughes, Housing Reporter

Brenda Siler, Lifestyle Reporter

Lindiwe Vilakazi, Health Reporter

Ed Hill, Sports Editor

Jada Ingleton, Reporter

PHOTOGRAPHERS

Shevry Lassiter, Photo Editor

Ja Mon Jackson, Asst. Photo Editor

Roy Lewis, Jr.

Robert R. Roberts

Anthony Tilghman

Abdullah Konte

INTERNS

Jada Ingleton, Comcast

DeMarco Rush , MDDC

Juan Benn, GM/DTU

Harrison Buck, GM/DTU

wi hot topics

STACY M. BROWN, NATIONAL REPORTER; RICHARD ELLIOTT, WI CONTRIBUTING REPORTER

Durant, Wilson, Lyles, Many DMV Athletes Secure Gold During Paris Olympics

The DMV shined bright during the Paris Olympics, with many local athletes making a major contribution to the United States’ success– garnering the most gold and total medals.

Governor Wes Moore (D) gave congratulations to the 11 gold medals won by Marylanders shortly after the games concluded.

Basketball superstar Kevin Durant won his fourth gold medal, the most of any Team USA men’s player in history. He also secured his status as the all-time leading scorer for the U.S. Olympic team, ahead of Hall of Famer Lisa Leslie, with 518 points across his 28 games played.

In the 98-87 victory over France, Durant scored 15 points.

“It’s going to be a long time before somebody breaks that record,” said Team USA center Bam Adebayo. “I’m happy for him. Proud of him. He keeps the main thing the main thing. He continues to play basketball the right way.”

Both Durant and NBA all-time leading scorer LeBron James are both interested, but not fully committed, to join the 2028 Olympic squad in Los Angeles, California.

The youngest American male track and field Olympian ever, Quincy Wilson, a Bullis High School student, placed gold in the 4x400-meter relay.

WI Read more on washingtoninformer.com.

Leak Exposes Mainstream Media’s Cover-Up of Trump Campaign

In a revealing revelation, it appears that the mainstream media may be bending to the will of Donald Trump. Multiple prominent news outlets, including Politico, The New York Times, and The Washington Post, have reportedly been handed confidential material from within the Trump campaign, including a detailed vetting report on JD Vance, Trump’s vice-presidential pick. Yet, instead of reporting on the contents, these outlets have chosen to keep the information under wraps.

The Associated Press noted that the decision is even more startling given the media’s aggressive coverage of the 2016 election, where hacked emails from Hillary Clinton’s campaign were relentlessly published and scrutinized.

"Back then, there was no hesitation to dive into the details of the leaked communications, despite the clear involvement of Russian operatives," the Associated Press noted.

But in 2024, when the Trump campaign’s internal documents land in their laps, the same outlets are

suddenly squeamish, raising serious questions about their integrity and motivations.

Politico acknowledged receiving emails from a mysterious figure named “Robert” that included a 271-page campaign document on JD Vance and a partial vetting report on Florida Sen. Marco Rubio, who was also considered for the vice presidential slot. Both Politico and The Washington Post confirmed the authenticity of the documents but have chosen to focus on the potential origins of the leak rather than the damning content within.

The Times, which has refused to discuss why it chose not to publish the Trump campaign’s internal documents, is now being criticized for what appears to be a double standard.

Critics argue that this newfound restraint is nothing more than the media protecting Trump or, at the very least, avoiding the kind of backlash that might come from publishing unflattering material about him.

Jesse Eisinger, senior reporter at ProPublica, slammed the outlets’ decision, telling the Associated Press, “Once

CAMPAIGN Page 5

Biden-Harris Administration Takes New Steps to Lower Housing Costs, Speed Up Construction

On Aug. 13, the Biden administration announced a series of measures aimed at reducing housing costs by streamlining federal regulations and accelerating the construction of affordable homes. The new actions are part of President Joe Biden’s broader strategy to address the nationwide housing shortage and ease the financial burden on American families.

As part of the new measures, the Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) announced that it’s making $100 million available through its Pathways to Removing Obstacles to Housing (PRO Housing) program. The grants will help communities identify and eliminate barriers to affordable housing development, such as restrictive zoning laws and lengthy permitting processes.

“Today, alongside our colleagues at the Department of the Treasury, we are announcing a crucial move that will enable our partners to use our financing to build tens of

thousands more rental homes for the families we serve,” said HUD Acting Secretary Adrianne Todman in a statement.

The Treasury Department and HUD have also introduced changes to the Federal Financing Bank’s Multifamily Risk Sharing Program to provide more significant interest rate predictability for state and local housing finance agencies. Administration officials said the improvement should lower the cost of financing new housing developments and make more projects financially viable.

“The Biden-Harris Administration knows the key to reversing the affordable housing crunch is to take actions that increase housing supply. The Treasury-HUD rate collar initiative will help reduce the cost to construct more affordable housing that is so urgently needed in neighborhoods across the country,” said U.S. Deputy Secretary of the Treasury Wally Adeyemo. WI

Read more on washingtoninformer.com.

MJBL's 2024 Symposium Champions African American Legacy in Baseball

By Harrison Buck Chevrolet Discovering the Unexpected Fellow WI Reporting Intern

The Metropolitan Junior Baseball League (MJBL) hosted its annual Bobby Bonds Memorial Symposium at the Congressional Auditorium on Capitol Hill on July 30. The event, sponsored by Rep. Jennifer McClellan (D-Va.), celebrated the enduring impact of African American contributions to baseball and explored ways to revitalize the sport in inner-city communities.

Founded in Richmond, Virginia, in 1966, MJBL has a storied history of providing baseball opportunities to socially and economically disadvantaged youth. Initially conceived by Dr. William M.T. Forrester, the league has expanded its reach nationally and into the Caribbean, fostering not only athletic skills but also educational and cultural enrichment.

“Too often, low-income inner-city youth do not have access to athletics or extracurricular activities,” McClellan said. “MJBL’s programs cultivate social development, foster meaningful friendships, provide physical exercise, and teach valuable lessons like hard work, leadership, and resilience.”

MJBL has consistently integrated educational and cultural programs into its athletic framework. The league’s Inner City Classic, launched in 1991, has allowed

CAMPAIGN from Page 4

the material is verified as authentic, the public has a right to know what’s inside. It’s not the media’s job to shield a political campaign from embarrassment—especially when that campaign has been less than transparent.”

The FBI has confirmed that it is investigating the matter, but the Trump campaign and the media have not been transparent, leaving the public in the dark As the 2024 election nears, most argue that the stakes could not be higher and that

urban youth to travel, compete, and experience diverse cultures, enriching their personal and social development.

Broadcasting commitments prevented some key figures from attending in person, but their messages of support resonated throughout the event. The commitment to youth education, community engagement, and the love of the game remains at the heart of MJBL’s mission.

The 2024 Bobby Bonds Memorial Symposium reaffirmed the importance of preserving African American heritage in baseball and has inspired a new generation to carry the torch forward.

The symposium featured a distinguished panel of African American Major League Baseball (MLB) trailblazers.

Dusty Baker, a former player and manager of the San Francisco Giants, Chicago Cubs, Cincinnati Reds, Washington Nationals and Houston Astros, shared insights on tenacity in baseball.

“Some of the lessons that I’ve learned are perseverance, determination, patience, camaraderie, teamwork, and learning to get along with others,” said Baker. “Baseball taught me really about myself and about other people at the same time.”

He also discussed the need for baseball to embrace cultural shifts to stay relevant.

David James, vice president of Baseball and Softball Development at Major League Baseball,

the media’s role in shaping public perception is more critical than ever. By choosing not to publish these documents, The New York Times, Politico, and The Washington Post have not only abdicated their responsibility but also set a dangerous precedent. In an era where misinformation reigns supreme, their silence speaks volumes.

“If the media starts picking and choosing what truths the public is allowed to see, then we’re no longer living in a democracy—we’re living in something much darker," a veteran journalist stated. WI

discussed MLB’s initiatives to make the sport more accessible, including the RBI (Reviving Baseball in Inner Cities) program.

“We’re trying to find more ways to get more kids in front of the game. Baseball is hard, but with initiatives like Quick Ball and free tournaments at the Jackie Robinson Training Complex, we’re making it easier for kids to start and succeed,” James explained.

Paxton Baker, a minority owner of the Washington Nationals, reflected on the lessons baseball teaches about teamwork and cultural coexistence.

“You have to love the game or love what you’re doing to have enthusiasm,” he noted. “You must feel that nobody’s going to give you anything; you have to persevere, have character, and recognize when you’re getting a break.”

The symposium offered a call to action to sustain and grow the

legacy of African American participation in baseball. The panelists emphasized the importance of making baseball "cool" again and ensuring that young athletes have the resources and support needed to succeed both on and off the field.

Ricky Clemons, former MLB

player and HBCU advocate, highlighted the critical need for visibility and opportunities for African American athletes.

“When I was coming up, there were Black stars everywhere. Hopefully, things will get better soon in baseball,” he noted.

WI

5Members of the 2024 MJBL symposium panel gather on stage at the Congressional Auditorium on Capitol Hill. (Harrison Buck/The Washington Informer)

AROUND THE REGION

facts

PEARL BAILEY

AUG. 15

1887 – Eatonville, Florida, one of the nation's first self-governing all-Black municipalities and the hometown of famed author Zora Neale Hurston, is incorporated.

1938 – Longtime U.S. Rep. Maxine Waters is born in St. Louis.

AUG. 16

1887 – African American inventor Granville T. Woods patents electromechanical brake.

1922 – Louis E. Lomax, author and first African American television journalist, is born in Valdosta, Georgia.

2007 – Legendary jazz drummer Max Roach dies in New York at 83.

AUG. 17

1887 – Political leader Marcus Garvey, proponent of the Pan-Africanism movement and founder of the Black Star Line, is born in Saint Ann's Bay, Jamaica.

1938 – Blues icon and famed guitarist Robert Johnson dies in Greenwood, Mississippi, at 27.

1990 – Tony-winning actress and singer Pearl Bailey dies in Philadelphia at 72.

AUG. 18

1934 – Baseball great Roberto Clemente is born in Carolina, Puerto Rico.

1963 – Civil rights activist James Meredith, the first African American admitted to the University of Mississippi, graduates.

1977 – Stephen Biko, anti-apartheid activist and leader of the Black Consciousness Movement in South Africa, is arrested. He is severely beaten while

AUGUST 15 - 21 , 2024

SOURCE: BLACK AMERICA WEB

in police custody and dies of his injuries weeks later.

AUG. 19

1954 – Ralph J. Bunche, the first Black winner of Nobel Peace Prize, named undersecretary of the United Nations.

AUG. 20

1942 – Soul music legend Isaac Hayes, best known for his Oscar-winning "Theme from Shaft," is born in Memphis, Tennessee.

AUG. 21

1831 – Nat Turner leads a rebellion of slaves and free Blacks in Southampton County, Virginia, that resulted in the deaths more than 50 white people.

1904 – Count Basie, famed jazz pianist and bandleader, is born in Red Bank, New Jersey.

1932 – Melvin Van Peebles, actor, director and composer, is born in Chicago.

1936 – Basketball great Wilt Chamberlain, the only player in NBA history to score 100 points in a single game, is born in Philadelphia. WI

AROUND THE REGION

view

P INT

BY SARAFINA WRIGHT

The 33rd Olympiad recently concluded in Paris, with the U.S. finishing with 126 medals, leading the medal count. Next up: Los Angeles ’28. What was your favorite moment of the Summer Games?

ASHLIE TAYLOR / KANSAS CITY, MO.

Tara Davis-Woodhall winning gold in the Women’s Long Jump!

KIM ATKINS / HOUSTON, TEXAS Track & Field, gymnastics, and swimming!

MILTON ANDERSON / WASHINGTON, D.C Chef Curry!

TOYOSI SAINT / BOSTON, MASS.

Super proud of our athletes! I have so many favorite memories, but I love the women’s relay races.

PETER OWENS / ATLANTA, GA. It’s one I’ll never forget. Congratulations to all USA athletes!

Our staff is made up of writers, just like you. We are dedicated to making publishing dreams come true. Trusted by authors for nearly 100 years, Dorrance has made countless authors’ dreams come true.

AROUND THE REGION

Swaliga Foundation Brings STEAM Education to D.C. Youth

By DeMarco A. Rush WI Contributing Writer

The Swaliga Foundation hosted the eighth annual #STEAMtheBlockParty on Saturday, Aug. 10 at the Entertainment & Sports Arena in Southeast, D.C. In its first year held at the arena, the free event welcomed kids of all ages to learn about careers and opportunities in the science, technology, engineering, arts, and mathematics (STEAM) fields.

A variety of vendors were present selling handmade jewelry, artwork, and oils while smaller children could have fun in the “Yo Gabba Gabba” themed moonbounce.

Other festivities included multiple raffles, where winners received multiple high-tech drones, and a Raising Canes gift basket.

Organizations like KID Museum, Tech TurnUp, and the National Institutes of Health (NIH) brought innovative tech that kids could have fun interacting with while learning about STEAM.

One of the exhibits was Binary Beat, by KID Museum, a device created through math and science in the style of a pinball machine that allows kids to build their own songs loop by loop.

“It's all about getting kids into coding, getting them into using their STEM (science, technology, engineering and mathematics) and art skills for weird purposes and we

found that music is a great way to do that,” said Jake Sanford, exhibit developer at KID Museum.

Tim Weeden, founder of Tech TurnUp, shared his joy in informing the youth about STEAM related activities.

“I'm really excited to be here because it gives us organizations a chance to come together and show young people about the different creative ways that we’re working with technology,” said Weeden.

Ward Eight Councilmember Trayon White Sr, made an appearance at the event to push for STEAM education and opportunities for District youth-- particularly African American students.

“In our community we need to be informed and know what career opportunities are out there. I think STEAM provides a pipeline and a funnel to get into careers and entrepreneurship,” said White. “Far too often we miss out on opportunities because we simply don’t know.”

Washington Informer Publisher Denise Rolark Barnes helped moderate a conversation with Swaliga Founder and CEO Lemond Brown and student members of the foundation.

She stressed the importance of STEAM education to the crowd.

“One day there will be a young person in your community, or school that will need to be part of this program. STEAM is really important because it pulls it all together,” Rolark Barnes said.

During the discussion, Brown explained why he started The Swaliga Foundation.

“I saw that there was a gap for Black students, specifically in the STEM field,” he exclaimed.

The event was hosted by artist and personality, Chardelle Moore, and included exciting performances from ENTATY, UCB, Uptown XO, Pinky Killacorn, and MR. IMAG, Brown’s stage persona.

The Washington Informer was a media partner for this event. Other partners included Best Buy, Under Armour, Events DC, DC Arts & Humanities, OLÉ Entertainment, LLC., Minority Tech Foundation, National Endowment of the Arts, and WUSA-9.

With the growth in STEAM over the last decade, leaders like Brown and White are emphasizing the importance of careers in STEAM. According to the National Science Foundation (NSF), about 24% of the workforce is employed in STEM fields, however racial disparities exist. The NSF’s “Diversity in STEM: Women, Minorities and Persons with Disabilities,” report reveals Asian workers had the most employees in STEM, with 39%, while the lowest share was among Black workers, representing 18% of the workforce.

“We need to have a more intense focus on STEAM [careers] because it gives people the opportunity to get out of poverty,” declared Councilmember White.

WI

5The Swaliga Foundation hosted the eighth annual #STEAMtheBlock event at the Entertainment & Sports Arena in Southeast D.C. (Ja’Mon Jackson/The Washington Informer)

Black Women in Sports Celebrated at White House

By Ashleigh Fields WI Contributing Writer

Jaia Thomas has proven herself to be a trailblazer in the sports industry by creating a place for Black women to celebrate their unprecedented achievements. Recently, Thomas took her celebation all the way to the White House Eisenhower Executive Office Building on July 31 for National Black Women in Sports Day.

Thomas welcomed Keia Clarke, CEO of WNBA’s New York Liberty team, Lonnie Murray, an agent for the Major League Baseball Players Association, Monica McNutt, ESPN analyst, and Nneka Ogwumike, a member of the Seattle Storm, to discuss wins and losses in terms of deal brokering, pay discrepancies and discrimination in the workplace.

Each woman brought years of perspective, passion and purpose to the discussion infusing attendees with wisdom.

“It is important to celebrate Black women's professional achievements in the sports industry for a myriad of reasons. Firstly, Black women are still severely underpaid, underappreciated and underrepresented in many facets of the sports industry,” Thomas told the Informer. “Carving out a space to celebrate their achievements provides a much-needed layer and level of support and acknowledgement.”

As the founder of Diverse Representation, an organization geared toward opening doors for Black agents, attorneys, managers, publicists and financial advisors in professional sports, Thomas has managed to secure a safe space for experts to share the wealth of their experiences.

While panelists spent time chronicling their career, a significant portion of their remarks highlighted biases in the realm of professional sports.

A major issue was pay discrepancies which exist from the boardroom to the playing field. In 2022 statistics reflected that the average NBA player made over five million dollars while WNBA players were paid $120,000 per year on average.

Forbes recently reported, personal financial advising has one of the largest gender pay gaps across industries.

The average male personal financial advisor makes $103,220 every year, while female personal financial advisors make $65,208 annually. Of the 151 sports teams in the five major professional sports in the United States, the current total of majority owners who are Black equals one: Michael Jordan, a man.

BET co-founder, Sheila Johnson is the only Black woman with ownership in three pro sports teams.

“It's important to celebrate Black women's professional achievements in the sports industry because it serves as a source of inspiration for Black women looking to make inroads into the industry,” said Thomas, an attorney by trade. “Bearing witness to the achievements of Black women in sports can serve as a compass for the younger generation interested in similar career paths.”

Her words rang true for Kennedy Byrd, a law student at the University of Miami hoping to serve as counsel for athletes upon graduation. She recalled the event as an “unforgettable experience.”

“It was incredible to see Black women who are integral to sports get recognized and the opportunity to foster a powerful sisterhood through conversation and networking,” Byrd, Thomas’ mentee shared. “As an intern for Diverse Representation who witnessed the holiday’s inaugural year, it has been rewarding to watch Diverse Representation and Jaia Thomas continue to expand this celebration. I am excited to see how the day will continue to influence and shape the industry for Black women in the future.”

Statistics show employees who undergo mentoring programs are employed in higher positions five times more than their colleagues who lack mentorship according to research from MentorComplete. The retention rates for mentees stand at 72% when gaining knowledge from mentorship programs.

While the day was about wom-

AROUND THE REGION

en’s empowerment, men gained valuable knowledge from the event too. Greg Jackson, deputy director for the White House Office of Gun Violence Prevention attended alongside Michael Franklin,

founder of the Words Normalize Behavior communications agency.

“The contributions and leadership of Black women are undeniable and incomparable. It was an honor to celebrate the excellence of Black women in sports,” Franklin said. “Black women are changemakers and we must continue to uplift and support their unwavering and transformative leadership.” WI

5Panelists pose after the successful completion of the White House National Black Women in Sports Day celebration. (Photo Courtesy of the White House)

AROUND THE REGION

“A people without the knowledge of their past history, origin and culture is like a tree without roots.”

– Marcus Garvey

Political commentator and host of MSNBC’s “The ReidOut” Joy Reid reading The Washington Informer during the National Association of Black Journalists conference in Chicago, Illinois. (Courtesy Photo/Shaun Prewitt)

(L-R) Denise Rolark Barnes, Asreil Thomas, Amari Washington, and Lemond “MR. IMAG” Brown share a conversation during the Swaliga Panel with The Washington Informer Newspaper. (Ja'Mon Jackson/The Washington Informer) (See more photos in CTM)

Tour Company Showcases Alexandria’s Black History

By James Wright WI Staff Writer

As a fourth-generation African American Alexandria, Virginia resident and a member of the city council since November 2012, John Taylor Chapman is all about his hometown. In addition to his work as a city councilman, Chapman serves as an officer or active member of city organizations such as the Alexandria Economic Development Partnership Board of Directors, vice president of the Volunteer Alexandria Board of Directors and a former president of the Alexandria NAACP.

While he has a deep love for Alexandria, it bothered him immensely when he discovered that the tour companies operating in the city hardly mentioned the rich Black history there.

“Nobody was talking about the city’s Black history,” said Chapman, 43. “Tourists who would go to Old Town Alexandria would be shown historical sites related to events and people but they weren’t African American.”

Chapman said the historical associations might mention Black contributions to tourists but rarely go into detail about the events or the free and enslaved people who lived in Alexandria.

Plus, there was a controversy about the closing of a group of dwellings, Ramsey Homes, designed during segregation. He decided to do something about the dearth of information about Black history in the city and formed the Manumission Tour Company in 2016.

Alexandria has received positive publicity as a tourist attraction. Travel + Leisure magazine voted Alexandria as one of its best cities in the U.S. this year and in 2023, Conde Nast Traveler listed the city as one of the top three best small cities in the country.

Just five miles south of the nation’s capital, commuters travel from the District to Alexandria by crossing the Potomac River. Old Town Alexandria is a world-class destination, with King Street acting as an anchor, and featuring more than 200 independent restaurants and boutiques and historical museums.

HISTORIC AFRICAN AMERICAN PRESENCE INSPIRES MANUMISSION TOUR COMPANY

According to the 2020 Census, Alexandria is 19.64% Black.

Before the Civil War, Alexandria had one of the largest slave trading operations in the country.

However, there were a number of free African Americans who lived in the city even when it was a part of the District from 1801-1847. In 1847, Alexandria retroceded back to Virginia. Chapman said even today there are historic buildings that have markers of “Alexandria, D.C.”

Inspired by Alexandria’s little known history, the Manumission Tour Company founder said the company was named after a process of freeing slaves.

“The word Manumission literally means to be freed by a piece of paper,” he said. “We selected that name because it opens up a conversation about what we do. It gives us the chance to talk about the struggle for freedom in Alexandria, which had one of the biggest slave ports in the U.S.”

Manumission offers customers a variety of tours to take part in.

Freedom’s Fight in Alexandria is a 90-minute guided walking tour through the streets of Old Town that is designed to give participants insight into Alexandria’s pre-Civil War history of urban slavery. Resisters to slavery such as Moses Hepburn and pharmacist Edward Stabler are among the people highlighted during the tour.

Duke Street Black History Walk-

ing Tour, a 90-minute excursion along the Duke Street corridor in Old Town Alexandria, visits sites such as the headquarters of the Franklin & Armfield Slave Pen, a major slave holding company at the 1315 address, and the former Bruin’s Slave Jail site that held the Edmondson sisters.

Still’s Underground Railroad Walking Tour along the King Street corridor is based on the 1872 non-fiction book “The Underground Railroad” by abolitionist William Still. The tour visits those sites and discusses the journey of the fugitives and the operation of the Underground Railroad in Alexandria.

Black History in Alexandria Bus Tour is a two-hour trek visiting local African American sites such as Freedom House Museum and Alfred Street Baptist Church (where Chapman attends). Chapman presently employs three tour guides. He plans on expanding the company to include other African American historical sites in Northern Virginia.

Morgan Twamley, a resident of nearby Arlington, took one of the tours recently and liked the experience.

“I would definitely recommend this tour company,” Twamley said. “The Underground Railroad Tour was incredibly interesting, and the tour guide was very knowledgeable. He answered everyone’s questions, and we learned a lot. We will definitely be back to try the other tours.” WI

@JamesWrightJr10

5John Taylor Chapman, owner of the Manumission Tour Company, stands before a marker of Franklin & Armfield, a slave trading firm in pre-Civil War Alexandria, Virginia. (Courtesy Photo)

PRINCE GEORGE'S COUNTY

Prince George’s County Political Updates

By Richard Elliott WI Contributing Writer

COUNTY COUNCIL ELECTION NEARS CERTIFICATION

With most of the votes counted in the Aug. 6 special election to replace former At-Large Councilmember Mel Franklin, County Council Chair Jolene Ivey is the projected Democratic winner, with 28,723 votes.

Bowie Mayor Tim Adams trailed Ivey with 18,410 votes and South County advocate Tamara Davis Brown garnered 5,518 votes. Adams performed stronger in the second round of mail in ballots, slightly reducing Ivey’s mar-

gin of victory. Ivey will be facing Republican nominee Michael Riker in the Nov. 5 general election. Ivey is widely expected to win.

The election had over 60,000 total ballots cast in the Democratic primary and over 2,600 ballots cast in the Republican primary, roughly two-thirds of 2022 primary election voter turnout.

Provisional ballots remain to be counted. A Prince George’s County Board of Elections representative said it is expected the race will be certified by Aug. 16.

Ivey’s seat will become vacant shortly after the Nov. 5 election and multiple candidates have begun putting together campaigns for the central county district. Some of the rumored and poten-

Prince George’s County Local Updates

By Richard Elliott WI Contributing Writer

24-HOUR MENTAL

HEALTH FACILITY

OPENS IN PRINCE GEORGE’S

The Dyer Care Center, a new 24-hour mental health facility has opened on Piscataway Road in Clinton, Maryland and plans to address Prince George’s County’s growing needs for mental health services, an issue that has only become more important in past years.

The center, made possible by the Maryland Health Services Cost Review Commission's funding, will provide services for adults experiencing behavioral health

5 Council Chair Jolene Ivey has secured roughly 48% of the vote in the countywide Democratic primary to replace Mel Franklin. She is expected to win in the Nov. 5 general election.

tial candidates in the upcoming special election to replace Ivey include:

• Cheverly Mayor Kayce Munyeneh

• Board of Education Member Shayla Adams-Stafford

• Business owner LaTasha Ward

• Former County Council staffer Kendall Gray

episodes and offer immediate stabilization. The behavioral health nonprofit RI International will operate the facility.

“I learned during my time as a prosecutor that more than 17% of

LOCAL Page 13

land, and for our country in her decision of Governor Tim Walz to be her running mate,” Alsobrooks wrote on X (formerly known as Twitter). “The vision that Vice President Harris and Governor Walz share is one where our freedoms are protected in the United States. It’s a vision that stands in diametric opposition to the vision of Donald Trump’s and J.D. Vance’s Republican Party.”

Senator Chris Van Hollen (D) gave particular praise, saying that “there’s no better pick” than Walz for Vice President.

Union leader Anthony Lee Wright said this historic presidential ticket will allow union workers to “work and live with dignity.”

Congressman Glenn Ivey (D) shared his hopes for the Harris-Walz campaign in an exclusive interview with The Washington Informer.

• Former Bladensburg Mayor Walter James

• Democratic National Convention Delegate Ryan Middleton Munyeneh has already begun soliciting campaign donations and Middleton has begun canvassing doors in the Glenn Dale area, the most northeastern section of the district.

Another potential special election may arise if County Executive Angela Alsobrooks (D) is elected to the Senate.

State’s Attorney Aisha Braveboy, County Councilmember Calvin Hawkins, former County Executive Rushern Baker, and Ivey have all expressed interest in this seat. WI

MARYLAND LEADERS

REACT TO HARRIS- WALZ

TICKET

Shortly after the announcement of Minnesota Gov. Tim Walz as Vice President Kamala Harris’ running mate, their campaign continued to pick up momentum in both polling and fundraising and local leaders expressed major support of the decision.

Prince Geroge’s County Executive Angela Alsobrooks (D) and U.S. Rep. Steny Hoyer (D) both applauded Walz’s record as a veteran and a school teacher.

“I couldn’t be more excited for Vice President Harris, for Mary-

“Hopefully the Harris-Walz campaign can mean a continuation of the positive economic developments of the Biden Administration. I hope we can continue to build out internet access, continue infrastructure expansion and repairs, lower prescription drug costs, and finish some of the works in progress of the Biden Administration,” Ivey said. “Student loan forgiveness is a big fight, protecting and expanding healthcare access, and protecting the democracy of our country is important. Trump still says he didn’t lose in 2020, that he wouldn’t acknowledge losing in 2024 and he’s a scary guy that doesn’t respect American democracy and norms.”

In the 24 hours after selecting Walz as her running mate, the Harris campaign raised $36,000,000. The month of July brought over $310 million to their campaign with many of them coming from first-time donors.

This compares to the $169 million raised for former President Trump. This fundraising advantage has allowed the Harris–Walz campaign and PACs to begin purchasing and running TV ads.

“I think collaboration and perspective are key. With their combination of skills, they will be able to bring that outstanding perspective,” said Laurel Councilmember Kyla Clark about the strengths of the Democratic presidential ticket. “They are very down to earth. They don’t mind going above and beyond to get things done, and that’s what we must do sometimes in municipalities. WI

(Anthony Tilghman/The Washington Informer)

5 Dyer Care Center opened July 29, with local leaders, including Prince George’s County Executive Angela Alsobrooks (center), and center staff present to cut the ribbon for the new 24-hour mental health facility in Clinton, Maryland. (Courtesy Photo/Angela Alsobrooks)

reached critical dog capacity and planned to waive adoption fees.

the people that we arrest on any given day and take to our local departments of correction are intoxicated when they arrive, and over a third of all of the people that we arrest on any given day and take to the local Department of Correction are on psychotropic medications when they arrive,” said Prince George’s County Executive Angela Alsobrooks. “The most important thing we can do is to invest in the people in our county. Now it hasn't been easy to do, but I am so delighted to be here today for a ribbon-cutting ceremony for a very important facility that will lead the way on mental health."

For more information on the Dyer Care Center, visit dyercarecenter.org.

WI

ANIMAL SHELTER OFFERS FREE PET PARENTING CLASSES, SPAYING AND NEUTERING SERVICES

The Prince George’s County Animal Services Facility and Adoption Center announced they

On Aug. 6, the center reported taking in 200 animals in the preceding week, including 53 removed from homes for safety reasons.

Many of the dogs at the shelter are pitbulls, which can’t be adopted by Prince Georeg’s residents.

Further, a new illness has afflicted the center and testing is underway to determine the illness and the risk of cross-species disease spread. All dogs that are adopted will be given long-acting medication prior to their adoption.

“We are going for the ‘gold’ and we plan to cross the finish line in first place by adopting out 300 ani mals in the month of August,” said Department of the Environment Director Andrea Crooms. “The ‘Maryland 3,000’ adoption chal lenge allows us to waive the adop tion fees to help us achieve victory and find safe and loving homes for adoptable pets.”

They are offering qualifying res idents free spaying and neutering services.

Pet parenting workshops will be held on the first Saturday of each month, with the next workshop on Sep. 7 at the Brown Station pet adoption center location.

WI

PRINCE GEORGE’S COUNTY

Customers who are deaf, hard of hearing, or have a speech disability, call Maryland Relay 7-1-1. • Language interpretation is available at all facility front desks. Please ask for assistance.

5 The Prince George’s County Animal Services Facility and Adoption Center announced they reached critical dog capacity and planned to waive adoption fees. (Courtesy Photo)

BUSINESS

By James Wright / WI Staff Writer

PROSPERITY NOW CONFERENCE

COMES TO THE NATIONAL HARBOR IN SEPTEMBER

Prosperity Now announced its 2024 Prosperity Summit, featuring a cast of noted speakers, which will take place at the National Harbor in Maryland from Sept. 4-6.

During the three-day convening, Prosperity Now will assemble over 1,500 advocates, practitioners, policymakers, and government officials for expert panels, workshops, and networking opportunities aimed at advancing the communi-

briefs

ty’s collective work to extend economic opportunities for all.

Speakers at the Prosperity Summit (formerly the Assets Learning Conference or ALC) represent leaders in the field, dedicated to creating clear pathways to financial stability, wealth and prosperity for all Americans.

“The Prosperity Now Summit remains the only event of its kind, uniting influential leaders and foremost experts to address and resolve the environmental and systemic barriers that stand in the way of financial stability for countless hard working Americans,” said Marisa Calderon, president and CEO of

Prosperity Now. “Throughout their lives, few are aware of the unseen rules and regulations that often

The first stop of the competition is in New York on Sept. 22, while the District’s competition will occur on Oct. 26. This fall, the competition invites innovators to present their visionary solutions to an audience of global leaders, investors and changemakers for a chance to win up to $100K USDC.

Winners also receive mentorship and guidance to support them through the next stages of implementation, along with co-marketing opportunities with Circle to amplify their work.

stand in their way, much less the opportunities to help them advance. This conference sheds a light on those obstacles and provides strategies to overcome them, in pursuit of creating economic freedom and prosperity for all.”

The agenda includes five thought-provoking plenaries and 78 concurrent sessions with over 250 speakers throughout the conference. Among the speakers are author and advocate Heather McGee, CNN host and author Van Jones, president and CEO of the Opportunity Finance Network Harold Pettigrew and executive vice president, head of philanthropy and community impact for Wells Fargo Darlene Goins.

This year’s summit will focus on mobilizing collective power to create an inclusive economy that works for everyone.

For more information, visit www. prosperitynow.org.

WI

CIRCLE’S UNLOCKING IMPACT PITCH COMPETITION MAKES STOP IN D.C.

Circle, a global financial technology firm and the issuer of crypto currencies USDC and EURC has announced the District as one of its two stops in the Unlocking Impact Pitch Competition Roadshow Series.

“The Unlocking Impact Pitch Competition reflects Circle’s dedication to nurturing innovations that can deliver real-world solutions,” said Mercina Tillemann Perez, vice president of Circle Impact. “These ideas have the power to tackle pressing global challenges and drive lasting, positive transformation—we feel privileged to support these pioneering entrepreneurs on their journeys to expand financial access.”

The pitch competition was designed to help identify and support the newest transformative ideas and innovative projects to enable rapid humanitarian assistance anywhere around the world. In addition to New York and the District, there is a Paris, France round of the competition.

Ensuro, a recent winner of the District’s edition of the competition, deals with blockchain and smart contracts in the insurance industry utilizing USDC.

For more information, visit circle. com.

WI

TODMAN

KEYNOTES NAREB CONVENTION

Delivering the keynote address at the National Association of Real Estate Brokers (NAREB) annual convention on Aug. 1, U.S. Housing and Urban Development (HUD) acting Secretary Adrianne Todman applauded the organization for policies and practices advancing Black wealth as well as the Biden-Harris administration for “helping hundreds of thousands of families keep their homes when times were tough during the pandemic.”

During the address, Todman complimented the work of her

BUSINESS BRIEFS Page 55

5Author and advocate Heather McGee will serve as a speaker at the Prosperity Now Conference in September. (Courtesy Photo/Heather McGee, X)

Global Gifts Travel LLC Strives for Customer Satisfaction

By James Wright WI Staff Writer

When Sherrie B. Thomas enlisted in the U.S. Army, she liked the idea of defending her country and doing what she could to keep Americans safe from undemocratic forces. But what she, and her husband Garry Thomas, also loved about military life was the extensive travel.

“I grew up in Southeast, D.C.,” said Thomas, 52. “I decided to join the military. I loved to travel because I saw that the world was so much larger than what was in Southeast.”

Thomas and her husband took their love of travel to another level and started Global Gifts Travel LLC (GGT) in 2016. The firm was started even though they were still enlisted in the military and Thomas operates the Fredericksburg, Virginia-based business.

The Mandala Research Firm re-

ported that 17% of Black Americans take one or more international trips and travel locally more than six times per year. The research also shows 50% of African American adults are more likely to travel to locations associated with their ethnic or cultural heritage.

Travel writer Imani Bashir wrote in a February 9, 2023, on the Travel + Leisure magazine website that the “future of Black tourism is expansion.”

“Black travelers seek destinations and activities that are in line with their cultural and personal interests,” she said. “And they are looking for ways to support communities and businesses run by people of color.”

Culturally Competent Service for African American Travelers

While Global Gifts Travel offers services to anyone, the needs of the Black traveler are a main specialty.

“We offer our African American customers different levels of service,” Thomas said. “We have older clients

who want to travel, and money is no object. They tell us they want to go somewhere, give us their credit card information, and look for a trip filled with luxury, and they want to fly first class.

“We have middle of the road travelers who pay through payment plans and don’t want to travel extravagantly but don’t want to stay in a roach motel. Those travelers tend to like the Caribbean. And then there is the younger set who visit places like the Disney parks and pay a low deposit. They only want a hotel or motel just to sleep there.”

Thomas said her Black clients like five destinations: Breathless Montego Bay Resort & Spa in Montego Bay, Jamaica; the Hideaway at Royalton St. Lucia in St. Lucia; Dubai; Bali and Egypt.

“I had a client who wanted to travel to Egypt just to dip their toe in the Nile River,” she quipped.

Thomas has heard the talk that because of the Internet, travel agents and companies are no longer needed because customers can book their own reservations.

“Nobody thinks they need us, until they need us,” said Thomas. “When the Internet was down recently [the CrowdStrike outage], people called us

for their travel needs. When they get into a situation traveling, they can call their travel agent friend.” WI @JamesWrightJr10

5Sherrie B. Thomas poses in front of a sign promoting Natchez, Mississippi. (Courtesy Photo)

Who is Tim Walz? Kamala’s VP Pick with Big Dad Energy

By Keith Boykin Word in Black

This article was originally published online with Word In Black, a collaboration of the nation's leading Black news publishers (of which the Informer is a member). “Black Vote, Black Power,” a collaboration between Keith Boykin and Word In Black, examines the issues, the candidates, and what’s at stake for Black America in the 2024 presidential election.

Vice President Kamala Harris just picked Minnesota Governor

Tim Walz to be her running mate, and I couldn’t be more excited.

Who is Tim Walz? He’s a smalltown boy who grew up working on a farm. A patriot who joined the National Guard and served for 20 years. A high school social studies teacher. A high school football coach. A veteran. A hunter, a gun owner, and a skilled marksman. A midwesterner who knows rural America. He’s the type of man Republicans claim to love, but unlike the men who lead today’s Republican Party, Walz has a heart. Walz is pro-union, supports a strong minimum wage, and vot-

ed for President Obama’s Affordable Care Act when he served in Congress. And unlike the coach stereotype, he had the courage to serve as the faculty adviser for the student LGBTQ group on campus.

JOIN US SEPTEMBER 11-15, FOR THE 53RD ANNUAL LEGISLATIVE CONFERENCE

Connect with CBCF members, thought leaders and change-makers at the Day of Healing, Phoenix Awards, National Town Hall, and the Black Party.

VISIT CBCFINC.ORG / ALC TO REGISTER TODAY!

Early bird registration until August 26.

He’s funny on the stump, but he’s a great attack dog. And he means business. Walz appointed Minnesota Attorney General Keith Ellison to prosecute Derek Chauvin, the Minneapolis police officer who murdered George Floyd. But even though progressives love him, he doesn’t come across as threatening to middle America.

“And in 91 days,” as Harris said today, “the nation will know Coach Walz by another name: Vice President of the United States.”

As soon as Walz was announced, independent progressive Bernie Sanders endorsed him on the left, and conservative Joe Manchin endorsed him on the right. Do you know how hard that is to get those two to agree on anything? That’s like a Nobel Peace Prize in Democratic politics. Heck, even AOC endorsed him.

Walz helps heal the party and avoids a big conflict at the Democratic National Convention in Chicago over Gaza. He keeps the momentum going for Harris, and he matches her joyful energy.

I know some people wanted other candidates, and they all had different assets. Mark Kelly is an astronaut. Pete Buttigieg is a great communicator. Josh Shapiro is hugely popular in the critical state of Pennsylvania. And originally, I wanted Andy Beshear, the youthful governor of Kentucky.

But in the past few weeks of watching him campaign for Harris,

Walz won me over.

“You’ve legalized recreational marijuana, you passed universal background checks on guns, you expanded LGBTQ protections, you implemented tuition-free college for low-income Minnesotans. There’s free breakfast and lunch for school kids,” Jake Tapper said to him in a recent CNN interview.

Walz didn’t skip a beat. “What a monster,” he said. “Kids are having full bellies so they can learn.” He didn’t shy away from his record. He firmly defended it.

Republicans are already trying to sow division in the party by claiming that Harris didn’t pick Shapiro because he’s Jewish and claiming, “No Jews allowed at the top of the Democratic Party.” Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer quickly put that argument to rest, but the nerve of the straight, Christian, white male-dominated Republican Party to complain about diversity in the Democratic Party. Give me a break.

Democrats nominated the first woman for vice president in 1984 (Geraldine Ferraro, the first Jewish candidate for vice president in 2000 (Joe Lieberman), the first Black president in 2008 (Barack Obama), the first woman candidate for president in 2016 (Hillary Clinton), and now the first Black woman and first South Asian woman for president in 2024 (Kamala Harris). Meanwhile, Republicans have given us nothing but white men on the ticket for the past four elections.

That’s why I like Walz. He balances the ticket, and his energy matches Kamala’s. Other candidates are good on the attack, but Walz does the same with a smile. And when they join forces, they make a great team. As Walz said in Philadelphia today, “Thank you for bringing back the joy.”

Harris and Walz are happy warriors fighting for a hopeful future, while Trump and Vance are mean-spirited men stoking fear with a backward-focused campaign of doom and gloom.

Many of you don’t know who Tim Walz is, but trust me, when you see him in the next few weeks, you will not be disappointed. Kamala Harris made a bold choice in picking Walz. Now let’s go win. WI

Keith Boykin is a New York Times–bestselling author, TV and film producer, and former CNN political commentator.

5Vice President Kamala Harris picked Minnesota Governor Tim Walz to be her running mate, a choice some say will help heal division among Democrats and even across party lines. (Courtesy Photo/Office of Gov. Tim Walz)

Congresswoman Cori Bush Loses Re-Election Bid Bush, other Ferguson Activists to Remember Mike Brown

By Sam P.K. Collins WI Staff Writer

Congresswoman Cori Bush (DMo.), a progressive Democrat and Black Lives Matter activist who participated in the Ferguson protests, recently lost her re-election bid to Wesley Bell, a St. Louis prosecutor and Democrat who had the backing of a deeply pocketed pro-Israel lobby.

As of the morning of Aug. 7, Bush accumulated 45.625% of the vote compared to Bell’s 51.155% in Missouri’s Democratic primary.

Bush counted among those who called for a ceasefire in Gaza went as far as introducing a House ceasefire resolution and pressing for cutting aid to Israel.

The American Israel Public Affairs Committee, the pro-Israel lobbying group also known as AIPAC, spent more than $9 million to defeat the Missouri incumbent. In her concession speech on Aug. 6, an impas-

sioned Bush gave a message to them and other big spenders.

“AIPAC, I’m coming to tear your kingdom down,” Bush said. “Let me put all these corporations on notice. I’m coming after you too. But I’m not coming by myself. I’m coming with all the people in here that’s doing the work.”

FOUR YEARS OF PROGRESSIVE LEGISLATION IN RECOGNITION OF VICTIMS OF POLICE VIOLENCE

After entering office, Bush, the first African-American woman to represent Missouri in the U.S. House of Representatives, introduced a slew of legislation intended to address quality-of-life and public safety issues.

Her People’s Response Act, intro-

duced last July, set out to establish a division within the Department of Health and Human Services that conducts research on approaches to public safety that expand opportunities for historically marginalized groups.

Bush also championed the BREATHE Act, a federal omnibus package that holds elected officials accountable for enhancing Black self-determination and diverts funding from policing and incarceration into public safety approaches that protect Black lives and communities.

Another one of her bills, the “Helping Families Heal Act,” allocates funds to provide families of police violence victims with mental health resources.

Bush’s primary election loss took place just as she and many of her constituents in District 1, which includes Ferguson, Missouri, are preparing to commemorate the 10-year anniversary of Michael Brown, Jr.’s

police-involved killing.

The event bears significance for Bush, a triage nurse who gained her organizing chops during the Ferguson protests, and Wesley, whose office declined to charge Darren Wil-

son, the white officer who shot and killed 18-year-old Brown on August 9, 2014.

Hours before the polls closed on

5Missouri Congresswoman Cori Bush, a progressive Democrat and Black Lives Matter activist who participated in the Ferguson protests, recently lost her re-election bid to Wesley Bell just days before the 10th anniversary of Michael Brown Jr.’s fatal murder by Ferguson police August 9, 2014. (WI File Photo/Robert R. Roberts)

Aug. 6, Bush reflected on that seminal moment.

“Even though a decade has passed, we have to save life. So I’m glad to be in position with the movement, though we have so much further to go,” Bush told a group of Black journalists who attended a press conference hosted by Black Lives Matters Grassroots. “There are so many pieces of legislation we need to see happen. We won’t stop fighting. We won’t stop saying their names. That’s enough for us to put our names and reputations on the line.”

UNFINISHED BUSINESS FOR

MICHAEL BROWN, SR.

Last year, family members of Brown and Rekia Boyd, shot and killed by a Chicago police detective Dante Servin in 2012, filed a merit brief with the Inter-American Commission on Human Rights. The brief argued that, by failing to hold Wilson and Servin accountable, the U.S. government committed human rights abuses against Brown and Boyd.

Michael Brown, Sr., father of the late Brown, told reporters on Aug. 6 that those efforts bore no fruit.

Since launching Chosen for Change, a nonprofit organization dedicated to holistic grief support and outreach to families who lost loved ones to police violence, Brown, his wife Cal Brown and others have united around healing and literacy.

A decade later, Brown said he sees some change in the streets of Ferguson.

“There’s nothing white standing out anymore,” Brown said. “Stop and frisk has stopped. Less crime and body-worn cameras are around. The residents aren’t being harassed like they’ve been.”

However, as Brown explained, there’s more work to be done to address more of the structural issues facing Black people in Ferguson.

That can be done, he said, through the proper allocation of funds that continue to pour into the St. Louis suburb.

“Things are being put in place but not the right place,” he said. “We still have people’s boots on the ground orchestrating to get things in the right direction.” WI

@SamPKCollins

BLACK BUSINESS from Page 1 toward the goal of increasing the number of minority-owned businesses as outlined in D.C. Mayor Muriel Bowser’s DC Comeback Plan.

for National Black Business Month, he looked forward to engaging them.

“The Bowser administration has been very supportive of me and the other businesses here at Sycamore & Oak,” said Brown on the morning of the mayoral officials’ visit. “The exposure means so much to us. It is important that we are promoted.”

Brown was visited by Nina Albert, the deputy mayor for planning and economic development (DMPED) and Rosemary Suggs-Evans, director of the D.C. Department of Small and Local Business Development, as a part of a Black Business Tour through the Congress Heights and Anacostia neighborhoods.

“There are 15 Black businesses here at Sycamore & Oak and we are here to do what we can to support them,” said Albert. “We have spent a lot of time east of the river. We want to make sure that people in the neighborhood patronize Black businesses here.”

According to recent data, there are approximately 3.12 million Blackowned businesses in the United States. These businesses employ 1.18 million people and generate $133.7 billion in total sales, highlighting their significant contribution to the economy.

Albert said 33% of all businesses in the U.S. are owned by people of color. In the District, 28% of businesses are owned by people of color.

Albert said that her department and the administration are committed to working with entrepreneurs to help them get the grants, financial support and technical assistance needed in order to be successful.

BUSINESS OWNERS AT SYCAMORE & OAK

During the tour, employees of DMPED offered businesses the chance to participate in the Small Business Census, a comprehensive survey designed to collect and analyze data from businesses that may not have the chance to engage with the government. The goal of the census is to establish a baseline and work

At Sycamore & Oak, Albert and Suggs-Evans visited WeFitDC and spoke with its owner, Joe Houston.

“It is my goal to have a presence in Ward 8,” said Houston, 30. “I want to make sure that as many people as possible are fit.”

Houston said he wants to build more facilities in the District in Ward 7 and in Ward 5.

Next, the pair visited Paradyce, a clothing company that specializes in sustainable outerwear in the form of hats, pants, t-shirts and shirts. Pierre Batchler, the owner, stood behind his counter smiling as the pair came in.

Batchler, 39, told officials that he has the store and sells his clothing online. He made it clear his goal is success.

“This is my life, my vision,” he said.

Josei Harris, the owner of Black Bella DC, was happy to see the officials and told them to continue to support Black businesses.

“It is not easy,” said Harris with a sigh. “It’s not easy but I am going to make it work.”

The pair also visited The Museum Store, co-owned by LeGreg Harrison and Muhammad Hill. They chatted briefly about the store and Albert noted that The Museum Store had a location on Rhode Island Avenue, NE.

The mayoral officials also walked around the back of the facility to its row of eateries. They went to Brown’s businesses, where he had the chance to engage them and even offered them a sample of his southern, Caribbean and West African cuisine.

Albert and Suggs-Evans then made a quick stop at Buna Talk Café at the southern end of the row of eateries. Meryem Yusuf, the co-owner of

Buna said she not only owned the eatery but also resided on the St. Elizabeths East campus.

“I live right over there,” she said, pointing to the collection of townhouses. “My husband and I wanted to own our shop and live in the same neighborhood.”

THE ANACOSTIA LEG

After visiting Sycamore & Oak, Albert and Suggs-Evans boarded an Art to Go-Go Shuttle with Kristina Noell, the executive director of the Anacostia Business Improvement District. As they traveled north on Martin Luther King Jr. Avenue SE to Anacostia, they talked about the development of the neighborhood as an arts district and possible enhancement of Bellevue, an area north of Congress Heights.

When the shuttle arrived in Anacostia, the trio visited the site of the Go-Go Museum, which is under construction. Ron Moten, the founder of the museum, conducted a hard hat tour, pointing out where exhibits will be showcased.

“I am looking at a soft opening on Sept. 18,” Moten said.

The final sites visited were 6CO Eatery with its offerings of sandwiches, burgers and southern cuisine, and then they proceeded to Enlightened, with noted entrepreneur Antwayne Ford as its president and CEO. Ford showed the trio its offices and some spaces it has for small businesses.

The tour ended at Kitchen Savages, owned by former Ward 8 advisory neighborhood commissioner Darrell Gaston. Gaston hosted the pair and several Black entrepreneurs for lunch as they discussed the day’s developments.

“We are here to help Black businesses,” said Albert. “Whether [the businesses] give their customers more access to goods and services and access to restaurants, we are here to help.”

WI @JamesWrightJr10

— Will O., Trinidad

n Booklets

n Brochures

n Business Cards

n Banners

n Canvas Bags

n Color Copies

n Contracts & Vouchers

n Church Fans

n Fax & Scan

Programs

Postcards

Promotional Products

n Posters & Signs n Tithe Envelopes

n Tickets & Flyers

T-Shirts

Mia le Roux has become the first deaf woman to be crowned Miss South Africa following a divisive competition which saw one finalist withdraw after being trolled over her Nigerian heritage, Agence France-Presse (AFP) reported on Sunday, Aug. 11.

In her acceptance speech, Le Roux said she hoped her victory would help those who felt excluded from society to achieve their "wildest dreams, just like I am."

She said she wanted to help those who were "financially excluded or differently abled."

Le Roux, 28, was diagnosed with profound hearing loss at the age of one and has a cochlear implant to help her perceive sound.

She said it took two years of speech therapy before she was able to say her first words.

After winning the title, the model and marketing manager declared her pride in representing her country and the deaf community.

"I am a proudly South African deaf woman and I know what it feels like to be excluded, she said. "I know now that I was put on this planet to break boundaries and I did it tonight."

Last week 23-year-old law student Chidimma Adetshina pulled out of the competition following allegations that her mother may have stolen the identity of a South African woman.

Adetshina was born in South Africa to a Nigerian father and a mother of Mozambican origin.

She had been at the center of a social media storm for several weeks, with many people, including a cabinet minister, questioning her right to represent the country.

She said she had been the victim of "Black-on-Black hate", highlighting a particular strain of xenophobia in South Africa known as "afrophobia," which targets those from other African countries. She said she made the decision for her and her family's safety and well-being.

Adetshina's announcement on Instagram came a day after a preliminary investigation by the Home Affairs Department found that her mother may have committed "identity theft" to become a South African national.

While Adetshina has roots in Nigeria and Mozambique, she said she was born in Soweto, a township next to Johannesburg, and grew up in Cape Town. WI

In a significant move towards inclusive education, the Barbados Ministry of Education is set to broaden its learning disability screening program for the coming academic year, Barbados Today reported on Sunday, Aug. 11.

Minister of Education Kay McConney unveiled the plan at a special graduation reception for students with special needs who had successfully navigated the Barbados Secondary Schools’ Entrance Examination, commonly referred to as the Common Entrance or 11-plus exam.

Speaking at the Barbados Yacht Club, McConney emphasized the government’s dedication to supporting children with learning challenges, outlining the government’s commitment to ensuring no child falls through the cracks. She highlighted the importance of early identification, explaining how it enables educators to craft tailored learning approaches.

“Sometimes we say this child has a challenge but we didn’t do the proper diagnosis to find out if it was sight, if it was that the child couldn’t hear or something else. We have determined that the earlier we do this the greater the chances are that we will catch something that could hold them back and be able to intervene earlier so that they too could [be successful],” McConney said.

The expanded program will build upon last year’s vision screening initiative for secondary school first-formers. Now, children as young ages 3.5 to 5 years old will undergo vision and hearing tests. Additionally, the ministry will bolster its resources for diagnostic testing of students with potential learning difficulties.

Kirk Humphrey, minister of People Empowerment and Elder Affairs, outlined forthcoming policy changes aimed at improving treatment of individuals with disabilities and their families. These include encouraging employers to offer more flexible working arrangements for parents of children with disabilities.

The event celebrated the graduation of 31 students with special needs from primary schools across Barbados, recognizing their achievement in securing places at secondary schools.

WI

5Anderson Sandiford collecting his prizes from Minister of People Empowerment Kirk Humphrey. (Courtesy Photo)

5Mia le Roux, first deaf Miss South Africa, crowned after divisive competition. (Courtesy Photo)

“This time, it’s different.” TREATMENT WORKS. RECOVERY IS POSSIBLE.

 Free substance use disorder treatment available 7 days a week

 Three medications to help

 Better coordinated treatment services

 Peer counselors who have been there

 Transportation, recovery housing, and more

HEALTH

What is Ozempic and is it a Viable Option For Weight Loss Goals?

By Lindiwe Vilakazi WI Health Reporter

Like any other doctor’s visit, DMV native Brigette Squire shared her current health concerns with her primary care physician, expecting the typical response of suggested blood

panels and standard tips to maintain her health before being sent on her way.

It was to her surprise when the physician highlighted her slight weight gain as a point of concern, suggesting the medication Ozempic to address both her rising glucose lev-

5Ozempic, the prescription injection used to treat type 2 diabetes in adults, has become popular as a byproduct of weight loss, due to the medicine’s ability to make one feel full over a longer period of time and encourage less food intake. (Courtesy photo) els and body mass index.

“My doctor told me that in just three months, I had gained seven pounds. I was like, ‘Wow. I actual-

LIFE CAN BE UNPREDICTABLE

Special enrollment periods (SEPs) are for those unpredictable moments and changes in

To find out if you qualify to enroll in quality health insurance, go to DCHealthLink.com/SEP

• Lower premiums available

• 27 different plans to meet your needs and budget

• Plans cover office visits, prescriptions, and more

ly didn’t even realize it,’” Squire told The Informer. “He told me he would have to increase [the medication I was already using], and then suggested that I also try Ozempic.”

Ozempic, the prescription injection used to treat type 2 diabetes in adults, has become popular as a byproduct of losing a small to moderate amount of weight.

Approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) in December 2017, Ozempic, the brand name for Semaglutide, was initially sanctioned for use by patients with type 2 diabetes to help manage their blood sugar.

The weekly injection works to lower blood sugar levels by helping the pancreas secrete more insulin, mimicking the physiological hormone, glucagon-like-peptide-1 (GLP-1), and delaying the emptying of the stomach.

Essentially, Ozempic encourages less food intake by making one feel full over a longer period of time.

IS OZEMPIC EFFECTIVE FOR WEIGHT LOSS?

While pregnant with her now 12-year-old son, Squire developed gestational diabetes, a condition that occurs when the body can’t produce enough insulin to manage the extra blood sugar needs of pregnancy. At the time, doctors warned that she would be at a higher risk for developing type 2 diabetes in the future.

Although she took on an active lifestyle after the birth of her child, exercising and losing significant weight,

recent years of a heavy workload have hindered her ability to keep a consistent gym and cooking routine.

When she visited the doctor earlier this year, Squire, 35, was surprised at her current doctor’s concern about her weight, as this was not an issue commonly addressed with her previous primary care physicians.

“I've never had an American doctor say that I weigh too much. Sometimes doctors are [almost] nervous to say certain things, but he emphasized that he [wanted to prevent me having] a stroke or heart attack, or [getting] diabetes, so he'd rather I start on a low dose now instead of waiting until it gets worse and [consequently having] to be dependent on it, ” Squire, a single mother, explained.

Squire said she was never looking to start Ozempic for weight loss, as it was introduced to her due to underlying health concerns. However, she has successfully lost 15 pounds over the course of five months using the prescription medication.

Similarly, Tommy Zondo, 53, began his journey with Ozempic in February 2023. Finding himself pre-diabetic at 331 pounds, his primary care physician pushed his insurance company to cover the medication, aiming to reverse the looming comorbidities he battled at his previous weight.

Over the past year and a half, he has shed a total of 100 pounds, while lowering his glucose, falling well under pre-diabetic levels, essentially accomplishing everything he was seeking when starting the injections.

Zondo said that Ozempic helped

HEALTH Page 23

from Page 22

balance his taste palate, as he developed a desire for healthier, fiber-rich foods like vegetables, while unhealthy food choices became unappetizing.

“You can just take it and not change anything [else], and you'll still probably lose 10% to 15% of your body weight, but that'll be about it. Or, like in my case, you can totally change your activity, how you eat, and other things,” Zondo explained. “I just think it's as much as you want to engage with it, your success will be based on that.”

OZEMPICS’S SIDE EFFECTS, ADDRESSING MISCONCEPTIONS

Some people are leery about the drug’s rumored side effects, most commonly nausea, constipation or diarrhea, but also including concerns of gastroparesis, a chronic medical condition that slows or stops the movement of food from the stomach to the small intestine.

Though she’s had success on the medication, Squire initially had some concerns when learning she would be starting the injections.

“I hadn’t heard too many good things about its side effects, so I was a little hesitant to try it,” Squire told The Informer.

Both Zondo and Squire have experienced the common side effect of nausea, often experienced by those taking the injection,

While Squire likened the nausea to pregnancy morning sickness, Zondo told The Informer the discomfort is a small price to pay for the positive impact the medication has had on his health.

“I think every now and again, yes, I'm nauseous, but overall, it's a tiny price, tiny price,” said Zondo.

Dr. Fatmata Daramy-Barlatt, assistant professor of Community and Family Medicine in the Howard University School of Medicine, works to clarify misconceptions on how Ozempic truly affects the body.

“Because of how the medication works, by slowing the emptying of the gut, it does potentially pose a risk for people to develop gastroparesis, but there's a confounding factor out there… A common complication to diabetes is gastroparesis. It's something that is well known and has been studied for decades that we know about,” Barlatt told The In-

Essentially, Ozempic encourages less food intake by making one feel full over a longer period of time.

former. “So it's almost like a chicken and the egg, which came first? Is it just that most people on Ozempic already have diabetes and are already prone to gastroparesis, or is it the medication that's causing them to develop gastroparesis? So, we need more studies to kind of dive into it to know more.”

Likewise, people have coined the phrase “Ozempic face” to describe the sagging look that can occur from losing weight while using the drug. Barlatt also explained that side effect.

“The reason why people say you have the ‘Ozempic face,’ is just because of the rapid weight loss that it causes, and for people who are using it to lose weight, they are wanting to accelerate how quickly that happens. Anybody who loses weight rapidly is going to have that sagging face look,” Barlatt said.

Squire said the benefits of the medication outweigh the expensive cost.

“I’ve been really grateful,” said Squire, who uses her insurance to help pay for the injections, as without it, the cost would be closer to $1,000 a month.

Her doctor noted that even with the high cost of Ozempic, the medication is a lot cheaper than weight loss surgery.

“I feel like it’s worth it if you are concerned about losing weight and you have the means to get the money to pay for it,” Squire, a full-time dental hygienist, community safety advocate, photographer and entrepreneur said. “I’m lucky that I didn’t have to, but I was considering paying cash if my insurance didn’t accept it.”

WI

HEALTH

Teaming up to build healthier communities.

As a not-for-profit healthcare company, CareFirst BlueCross BlueShield is committed to investing in the health and well-being of our area. When we partner with local Black-owned businesses and nonprofits to make a difference together, everyone benefits.

EARTH OUR

Tropical Storm Debby Causes Flooded Roads Throughout Maryland

Addressing Effects of Climate Change in the State, Nationwide

Richard Elliott WI Contributing Reporter

As Tropical Storm Debby roared across the Mid-Atlantic, Maryland was particularly impacted by rising waters that flooded roads and downtowns after three consecutive days of rain.

Images posted on social media from North Beach, Ellicott City, and south Baltimore showed intensive flooding. Annapolis’ Dock Street, not far from the Statehouse, was flooded with waist high water and a large cobble of trash and

debris gathered in the Potomac downstream of the storm, within eyesight of D.C.’s Watergate hotel.

Maryland is ranked as the fourth most vulnerable state to sea level rise and the state is currently sinking at a rate of a centimeter per year. Several counties on Maryland’s Eastern Shore remained on flood watch until Aug. 10.

"We have seen the images of damages caused by this storm in the south, so it is important that Maryland remains vigilant as we prepare for the possible effects on our state," said Gov. Wes Moore

5 Tropical Storm Debby led to days of increased precipitation that caused flooding in some parts of Maryland. Near The Awakening statue in National Harbor, some residual waters remained even after the rains calmed. (Anthony Tilghman/ The Washington Informer)

(D) in a statement released Aug. 8. "The Maryland Department of Emergency Management has coordinated with the National Weather Service and our state and local partners to prepare. We also want all Marylanders to remain vigilant and to be prepared — reach out to relatives, friends and neighbors to offer help to those who may be vulnerable."

Floodwaters are not safe to be in, as they accumulate bacteria from a variety of sources including agricultural and road runoff, sewage, and more. There are also concerns of electrocution from downed power lines. Floodwater can also stall car engines and even sweep cars away.

On Aug. 9, the Maryland National Capital Park and Planning Commision (M-NCPPC) closed outdoor programs on Aug. 9 due to the tropical storm.

The commission recommended preparing an emergency kit, securing outdoor items, and listening for daily updates in the event of future high precipitation weather events.

Sandbags were made available to County residents for free at three South County locations from Aug. 8 to Aug. 10 in an effort to fight the rising waters.

HOW CLIMATE CHANGE IS AFFECTING

THE DMV AREA

Increased precipitation and frequency of tropical storms is one consequence of climate change that will impact this region for years to come, alongside extreme heat. Last year was the hottest year on record and 2024 is poised to break this record.

July saw a record heat wave afflict the DMV region. Several Marylanders, including at least four Prince Georgians, have died from heat so far this year and 43 workers died in heat-related episodes at work in 2022, a rise from 36 in 2021.

Baltimore Department of Public Works (DPW) worker Ronald Silver II unfortunately passed away on Aug. 2 from heat, and the City held mandatory heat safety trainings on Aug. 6. Laurel’s DPW workers are now alleging they aren’t being provided water and are instead given a large cooler to store beverages they individually purchase.

“This should be a wake-up call to the leadership of the Department of Public Works that changes need to be put in place as soon as possible and that our members’

health and safety needs to be taken seriously,” wrote American Federation of State, County and Municipal Employees Maryland Council 3 in a social media post following his tragic passing.

The Biden-Harris administration is implementing new rules to protect workers from excessive heat without adequate safeguards. In July, the administration proposed access for drinking water and rest areas when temperatures exceed 80 degrees and mandatory 15-minute breaks every two hours when the temperature exceeds 90 degrees. Currently, only five states have heat safety laws in place and the president’s new rules may protect over 35 million workers across a variety of industries at time of implementation.

Maryland’s Department of Labor is holding a hearing on Aug. 16 to implement new heat safety rules and it is likely they will be implemented into law by the early fall. These rules would require shaded areas be provided, give workers at least 10 minutes of rest every two hours once the temperature exceeds 80 degrees, and require that heat safety plans be in writing. These rules would apply to all public and private employers once

OUR EARTH Page 25

EARTH from Page 24

implemented.

Maryland Democratic leaders including Sens. Ben Cardin and Chris Van Hollen and Reps. Steny Hoyer and Glenn Ivey have also secured flooding mitigation and stormwater management funds from the federal government, particularly to protect the Port Towns region from flooding.

“Together we can positively impact our community. From sewer lines to pollution and flood mitigation to promoting public transportation and access while min-

imizing wastewater run-off, our federal team along with our community and business stakeholders all have important roles to play to ensure a safer, more equitable and green Prince George’s County and region,” said Congressman Glenn Ivey in a statement on Aug. 2.

“[The] announcement of community project funds is a good step in the right direction towards those goals.”

To receive state alerts, tips and resources related to threats and hazards affecting or that may affect Maryland, text "MdReady" to 211-631 or text "MdListo" to

5 Residual waters near The Awakening statue in National Harbor after Tropical Storm Debby led to days of increased precipitation and caused flooding in some parts of Maryland. (Anthony Tilghman/The Washington Informer)

5 In times of excess heat, like the DMV has faced this summer, a community of turtles might take refuge from the sun on a floating log. (Anthony Tilghman/The Washington Informer)

EDUCATION

Frost Brothers Bring National Championships to D.C.’s Eastern High through Esports

By Demarco Rush WI Contributing Writer

Before becoming regional and national PlayVs NBA2K champions, basketball was the priority for brothers and Eastern High School students Taylor and Tyler Frost. However, gaming and esports have always been a major part of the brothers lives, originally to their mother’s chagrin.

“When I noticed it was becoming a distraction, I decided they

could only play on weekends,” said their mother Sherry Williams.

It wasn’t until she was cleaning Taylor’s room one day and found tons of cash in his closet, that she realized how good he was at the game.

“All of this money started falling,” Williams recalled. “And this is during COVID, so of course I’m like, ‘Where is all this money coming from?’”

It turns out he had been inviting friends over to play 2K, with wagers involved, and he wasn’t losing.

Despite his successful entrepreneurial and competitive venture, she felt that the game was impacting Taylor’s grades and would routinely come and take his system to help him focus on school.

Then things reached a boiling point.

“After going through this countless times and each time somehow the console would end up back in his room, I got really frustrated and one night I took his Xbox and tossed it off our balcony,” Williams said.

“I just heard the screen door opening and I heard the big slam on the concrete. I thought it was broken and I wouldn’t be able to play anytime soon,” said Taylor Frost.

Surprisingly, the console did not break.

It wasn’t until a discussion with Coach Lee James, IT instructor and the founder and coach of esports at Eastern, that Williams felt comfortable about her sons being part of the team.

“I had an open house and Tyler was in one of my classes and Sherry reached out to me about her concern that her sons were playing too much. I assured her our coaches keep students accountable and told her to allow them to come to tryout,” James said. “Later down the line at tryouts, there's this kid who is beating the brakes off of everybody and we realized it was Taylor and then everything connected.”

The Eastern esports coaching staff immediately reached out to Williams to tell her the program needed Taylor.

Fast forward to today and both Tyler and Taylor have gained some impressive hardware.

Taylor won the 2023 PlayVs Cup National Championship in blowout fashion and back to back Eastern Regional Championships.

“I always loved playing video games with my brother, it’s even more fun now that I can play competitively at school with people I’m around everyday” said Taylor.

Tyler followed his brother’s victory by winning the 2024 Eastern Regional PlayVs Championship.

“When we started playing competitively I realized I could do something with this,” said Tyler.

DEVELOPING EASTERN’S ESPORTS TEAM

Though the team can boast impressive achievements, the esports program at Eastern wasn’t always a powerhouse.

“It was tough in those first days, we took some beatings for sure as we tried to get the program organized,” said James.

Programs including PlayVS and Wizards District Gaming have helped fund Eastern’s esports program with computers, top of the line gaming chairs and gear, while facilitating matches against other top ranked high schools.

The mission of PlayVS is to make a difference in the esports community by providing amateur gamers the opportunities to pursue leadership roles, community building, character development,

5 Sherry Williams, Tyler Frost, Taylor Frost, and Coach Lee James pose with championship trophies in Eastern High’s trophy room. (Demarco Rush/The Washington Informer)

Local Scholars Among 2024 HBCU Cohort Celebrated by White House Initiative

By Stacy M. Brown WI Senior Writer

The White House Initiative on Advancing Educational Equity, Excellence, and Economic Opportunity through Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs) has announced the 2024 cohort of HBCU Scholars, marking the 10th anniversary of this transformative program.

This year, 110 students from 77 HBCUs nationwide, including several scholars from the Washington, D.C., area, have been selected for their exceptional academic achievements, leadership potential, and dedication to their communities.

Among the selected local scholars are:

• Ashley Anderson from Howard University, Washington, D.C.

• Sarah Amanda Owusu from Bowie State University, Bowie, Maryalnd

• Yassin Alallaq, an Arlington, Virginia, resident from Delaware State University, Dover, Delaware

• Michael Kevin Crossley Sr. from Virginia Union University, Sydney Lewis School of Business, Richmond, Virginia

Officials said their inclusion highlights the remarkable talent fostered within local HBCUs and reflects the D.C. area’s strong educational foundations and community spirit. Officials added that these students “exemplify the academic excellence and leadership potential the HBCU Scholars program seeks to recognize and support.”

“For 10 years, the HBCU Scholars program has celebrated the exceptional academic talent and achievements of students at our historically Black colleges and universities—a recognition that reflects the Biden-Harris Administration’s determination to fight for our nation’s HBCUs and their immense contributions to excellence and diversity in higher education,” said U.S. Secretary of Education Miguel Cardona. “This year’s 110 outstanding students exemplify Black excellence – and fill us with hope for the promise of tomorrow. We couldn’t be prouder to support them on their journey.”

Since its inception in 2014, the HBCU Scholars program has helped over 500 students, providing them invaluable opportunities for personal and professional growth, mentorship, and networking. Representing 23 states and 11 countries, this year’s cohort includes students from diverse disciplines, including science, technology, engineering, math, humanities, social sciences, and the arts.

Throughout the year, the HBCU Scholars will engage in workshops, leadership development programs, and networking events designed to enhance their skills and expand their horizons. They will also have the opportunity to connect with industry leaders, policymakers, and program alumni, further enriching their educational experience.

Aligned with the U.S. Department of Education’s mission to “Raise the Bar,” students in the program are encouraged to lift their communities, unite others around student success, work to strengthen our democracy and grow our economy.

A critical component of the HBCU Scholars Program is a partnership with NASA to foster innovation and opportunity for the cohorts. The partnership includes the Minority University Research and Education Project Innovation Tech Transfer Idea Competition (MITTIC). Through the MITTIC program, HBCU Scholars will collaborate to develop ideas to commercialize technology derived from NASA intellectual property that can improve their campuses and surrounding communities.

HBCU Scholars will also be invited to the 2024 HBCU Week National Annual Conference, held Sept. 15–19 in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. This year’s conference theme is “Raising the Bar: Where Excellence and Opportunity Meet.” During the conference, HBCU Scholars will participate in sessions designed to engage a spirit of innovation, leadership, and personal and professional development. Further, officials said HBCU Scholars will have opportunities to engage with one another, initiative staff, and

partners to showcase their individual and collective talent further.

Following the conference, officials said HBCU Scholars will be invited to participate in programs, events, and monthly master classes designed to enhance their professional development and create greater access to postgraduate opportunities within nonprofits, businesses, and federal agency partners to help ensure that we remain globally competitive as a nation.

“I am delighted to announce the 2024–2025 HBCU Scholars, representing 77 of our nation’s HBCUs. These students exemplify the excellence and leadership that is characteristic of the HBCU community,” said Dietra Trent, executive director of the White House Initiative on Historically Black Colleges and Universities. “I anticipate and look forward to our partnership over the next academic school year.” WI

5 In its 10th year, the White House Initiative on Advancing Educational Equity, Excellence, and Economic Opportunity through Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs) has announced the 2024 cohort of HBCU Scholars. (WI File Photo)

We’re proud to support the people, businesses and neighborhoods of Greater D.C. for over 50 years. Together, we’re creating a stronger, more inclusive economy for generations to come.

launch of a tenants association earlier this year has moved the needle on improving conditions.

“They haven’t facilitated solutions in a timely manner,” Williams told The Informer about Anacostia Economic Development Corporation and Serenity Management, the property manager.

When he spoke to The Informer, Williams was in the throes of battle about fruit flies he said congregated in his apartment after Serenity Management didn’t clean out the neighboring apartment formerly occupied by tenants.

That problem, he said, counted among several others involving cleanliness and an inability to keep sewage water and rainwater out of the basement.

“They find themselves coming back [after it rains] when things can be

done more proactively,” Williams said. “The hallway smells worse with all the flooding and mold. You can smell it [while] walking down the hallway.”

Williams moved into his basement-level apartment in 2021 after two years of housing instability. Though his new dwellings allowed for the pursuit of higher education and entrepreneurial activities, Williams said he experienced problems within months of moving there.

As he recalled, when a neighbor’s apartment caught fire a couple of floors above in 2022, the water from the sprinklers trickled down into his apartment. Months later, the sewage system malfunctioned and Williams and other tenants living on the basement floor had to walk through several inches of toilet water and feces that flooded the hallways and many of the units.

By that time, many of Williams’ neighbors had already complained about the several inches of rainwater that pours into the basement during storms. He said that attempts to address that particular issue with Serenity Management and Anacostia Economic Development Corporation earlier this year proved unsuccessful.

“I asked Stanley Jackson [president and CEO of the Anacostia Economic Development Corporation] if he knew if the foundation was reconstituted,” Williams said. “This building was made in the 1850s. Did they consider [the effects of] erosion and land shifting when you’re dealing with underground [units]? They didn’t dig it out and reconstitute it to waterproof the walls from outside and inside.”

Jackson didn’t respond to The Informer’s two requests for comment.

TENANTS AT ST. ELIZABETHS EAST ORGANIZE FOR SOLUTIONS

On Aug. 10, tenants from The Residences at St. Elizabeths East gathered in a parking lot on the property in demand of better security measures on the premises, including functional door locks and onsite security personnel.

This act of nonviolent resistance took place just weeks after a tenant died in a shooting that happened on the premises.

The tenants, with the support of housing organizers and tenants from other apartments, spent much time exploring organizing tactics and learning how to file suit for suitable housing conditions.

They also walked through the En-

tertainment & Sports Arena and Sycamore & Oak retail village, asking patrons to email Serenity Management, Anacostia Economic Development Corporation and the D.C. government.

“The action marks an escalation for the tenant association,” said Damiana Dendy, a housing organizer with D.C. Jobs With Justice who has been helping tenants at The Residences organize.

“This is at least the fourth shooting on the property. A resident lost their life and it doesn't get much more serious than that,” Dendy said. “Change needs to happen immediately. Tenants are making sure the public knows about this so they can be mobilized.”

The Residences at St. Elizabeths East, located at 1201 Oak Drive SE, is located just feet from the Entertainment & Sports Arena, Sycamore & Oak retail village, the Whitman-Walker Max Robinson Center and Cedar Hill Regional Medical Center, scheduled to open in 2025.

It has 252 units of studio, two bedroom and three bedroom apartments, most of which are affordable for families earning between 30% and 50% of the area median income. When The Residences at St. Elizabeths East first opened, Flaherty & Collins Properties served as the property manager. Last year, Serenity Management, a property management company based in Southeast, took on that responsibility. To this day, some tenants, like one who spoke to The Informer anonymously, continue to question the degree to which Serenity Management maintains a suitable living environment.

“People are able to yank the front door open and the parking lot is completely open,” the tenant said. “It just leaves the apartment open for any and everybody. Where is the safety? It would be good for tenants to know when security is going to be here. We’re paying our hard-earned money for peace of mind.”

The tenant, who lives on the first floor near one of the building entrances, is in their third month of withholding rent. They said they came to this decision after trying for an entire year to get Serenity Management to fix a crack in their ceiling.

They also grimaced as they spoke about how their apartment windows, a holdover from the building’s original design, don't provide enough insulation. That’s brought on higher utilities costs during the extreme winter and summer months.

5Tonya Hawkins, a tenant at St. Elizabeths East, has been fighting for proper living conditions. (Ja’Mon Jackson/The Washington Informer)

A Win for Homebuyers and Sellers:

of Residential Real Estate in Maryland

On August 14, the business of residential real estate in Maryland will change. Specifically, potential homebuyers who wish to work with an agent will need to sign a written agreement with an agent prior to work done on the buyer’s behalf, even before showing an open house. Also, properties for sale listed on databases known as a multiple listing service (MLS) will no longer include an offer of compensation that the seller is offering to buyer’s brokers.

This means that before you begin your home search, you have a valuable opportunity to sit down with your agent and discuss the many services they will provide, ensuring you have a clear understanding of how they will assist you throughout the process. You’ll also have the chance to determine a fair compensation structure that reflects the value and worth they bring to your real estate journey.

Regarding offers of compensation, Maryland REALTORS®, representing more than 28,000 members, and the Greater Capital Area Association of REALTORS® (GCAAR) and the Prince George’s County Association of REALTORS® (PGCAR), serving Montgomery and Prince George’s counties as well as Washington, D.C., applaud efforts that contribute to transparency in the real estate transaction, likely the most complex purchase anyone will make in their lifetimes. Of the requirement for a written Buyer’s Agreement, this is an “advocacy win” we fought for more than eight years ago: Maryland law has required this since October 2016.

Transparency helps to place today’s homebuyers and sellers in the driver’s seat as it provides clarity in the transaction and defines the roles and responsibilities for all parties involved. Sellers can search for a REALTOR® based on a variety of factors including sales volume, community knowledge, and more. Buyers can also find their ideal REALTOR®, looking at factors important to them: fiduciary skills, inspections expertise, referrals, and others. While both Buyer and Seller will have contractual and financial obligations to their respective agents’ brokerages, commissions remain negotiable. The Buyer and Seller have the power to search for the REALTOR® who best serves their needs.

However you choose to find your REALTOR®, understand the VALUE they bring to your home sale or search. Buying or selling a home can be stressful, difficult, confounding, complex. Your REALTOR®, a professional with specialized training, market

knowledge, and unique expertise, can make your path more manageable and—dare we say?—engaging, exciting, and, at the end of the transaction, rewarding. Many REALTORS® have specializations that focus on elements that can be a gamechanger: first-time homebuyers, military, diverse marketplaces, specialized properties, and many more.

The Maryland suburbs surrounding Washington, D.C., stand out for their diversity in living, cultures, recreation, and robust employment opportunities. Sharing a border with Washington, D.C., Montgomery and Prince George’s counties play host to thousands of federal government jobs. Whether it’s the nightlife and conferences at National Harbor, the restaurant scene in Bethesda, or the attractions and rural beauty in both counties, the quality of life here is Maryland living at its finest. According to Maryland REALTORS®’ 2023 housing data, more than 12,150 REALTOR® members in Montgomery and Prince George’s counties helped their clients with more than 12,160 homes—estates to condo, single-family to multi-family, urban to farmland, townhome to vacation property. Each home sale (and every new homeowner) has contributed to the economic strength and vitality in both counties. These same REALTORS® from GCAAR and PGCAR who have brought the reality of homeownership to so many people in this area are your friends, neighbors, community leaders, and volunteers of the area’s many charitable causes.

While searching for the REALTOR® that best suits you, take time to educate yourself on the details of buying or selling a home. In 2019, Maryland REALTORS® launched MarylandHomeownership. com, an educational resource, free of advertising and sales tactics, which provides actionable information, including downloadable resources and checklists (in English and Spanish), that educates consumers on all facets of buying or selling a home. Doing some homework ahead of one of the biggest decisions in your life always pays dividends.

Transparency and education are two of the most important factors that can lead to a successful outcome when buying or selling a home. The third factor is working with a REALTOR®. The path toward buying or selling a home is not traveled often. There are bumps, odd turns, hazards that you don’t expect. Your REALTOR® will guide you through this process, and once you’ve successfully been handed the keys to your new home (or have sold your current home) you’ll realize that your REALTOR® was WORTH the sound investment.

Compare and Contrast: August 28, 1963 vs. January 6, 2021

When he became president on January 20, 2017, Donald Trump wrongfully claimed that his inauguration crowd size exceeded that of former President Barack Obama. On his first full day as the new White House press secretary, Sean Spicer immediately lost all credibility with the press corps when he not only repeated Trump's assertions but also defended them.

This year, as the Republican presidential candidate, Trump is continuing his trend of exaggerating crowds.

At a recent press conference held at Mar-a-Largo, former President Donald J. Trump said, "Nobody has spoken to crowds bigger than me. If you look at Martin Luther King, when he did his speech, his great speech, and you look at ours, same real estate, same everything, same number of people.”

“But when you look at the exact same picture,” Trump continued, “and everything is the same – because it was the fountains, the whole thing all the way back to go from Lincoln to Washington – and you look at it, and you look at the picture of my crowd … we actually had more people.”

On August 28, 1963, the National Park Service estimated that 250,000 Americans gathered on the National Mall to hear Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. deliver his “I Have a Dream” speech.

The service estimates that 53,000 joined Trump on the “same real estate” on January 6, 2021, 15 days before

Joe Biden was inaugurated as the 47th president of the United States.

However, that’s just the first of many factual differences between the two monumental dates in American history, 58 years apart.

In August 1963, when 250,000 Americans heeded the calls of Dr. King and other civil rights leaders, they did so to protest an end to segregation, employment discrimination, and other discriminatory practices in civil rights. In addition, the March on Washington for Jobs and Freedom sought to establish voting rights, fair wages, and economic justice.

By contrast, the 53,000 Trump supporters who gathered in January 2021 were protesting the 2020 presidential election results. They felt – in fact, still feel – that President Biden stole the election.

It did not matter that President Biden defeated Trump 306-232 in the Electoral College and had a fourpoint margin in the popular vote. Nor did the fact that over 50 courts – many presided over by judges nominated to the bench by Trump – ruled that the November 2020 election was fair.

In addition, after the March on Washington, there were no arrests; the demonstration was peaceful, and everyone departed the nation’s capital without any incidents.

In contrast, many on January 6 carried weapons such as knives, guns, police batons, stun guns, fire extinguishers, flag poles, tasers, ax handles,

hockey sticks, metal fences, and pepper spray.

On explicit orders from Trump, they marched up Pennsylvania Avenue and stormed the U.S. Capitol, where Congress was gathered to fulfill its constitutional mandate and certify the 2020 election results.

Federal prosecutors have charged more than 1,265 people from nearly all 50 states and the District of Columbia with criminal misconduct. As of January 2024, the U.S. Attorney’s Office in D.C. released numbers showing that another 460 people had secured incarceration sentences.

Moreover, the 1963 march sowed the seeds for the passage of the landmark Civil Rights Act of 1964 and the Voting Rights Act of 1965.

January 6, 2021 resulted in 140 police officers being seriously injured, with five giving their lives. Several Trump supporters also died that day.

Finally, what folks most remember about the March on Washington are Dr. King's closing words, “Free at last, free at last. Thank God, Almighty, I am free at last.”

The words that stand out from Trump on January 6, 2021 are: “If you don’t fight like hell, you’re not going to have a country anymore” and “We are going to the Capitol.”

Can you see the differences between the gatherings on the National Mall on August 28, 1963, and January 6, 2021?

Americans Deserve Facts in the ‘Great Debate’ between Trump and Harris

The first debate of the 2024 general election in June is behind us – one which, because of his disastrous performance against former president Donald Trump, led President Joe Biden to remove himself from the race for president.

However, like the proverbial ram in the bush, Vice President Kamala Harris has surprisingly emerged as a competent, if not an even better, candidate for the Democrats who hope to maintain control of the White House.

Few would dispute that since Harris received Biden’s endorsement, followed by a surge of support from Democratic “su-

perpowers” including former President Barack Obama and record-breaking financial donations, the vice president has shown that she’s ready, willing and able to take on Trump.

Now, after both Trump and Harris have chosen their running mates, and given the latest polls, it looks like this will be an election that will go down to the wire. In fact, Harris stands a good chance of making history and to become the first woman elected president of the United States.

But one step at a time.

On Sept. 10, ABC News will host a presidential debate between Harris and Trump, mod-

On August 28, 1963, the National Park Service estimated that 250,000 Americans gathered on the National Mall to hear Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. deliver his “I Have a Dream” speech. The service estimates that 53,000 joined Trump on the “same real estate” on January 6, 2021, 15 days before Joe Biden was inaugurated as the 47th president of the United States.

erated by ABC’s David Muir and Linsey Davis.

Both journalists have moderated presidential debates in the past – Muir holding his own in primary debates in 2016 and 2020 and Davis handling presidential debates in 2019 and 2020.

Their experience is critical because as we saw in the June debate, the candidates have no problem making specious claims – that is, lying.

Both Trump and Biden made claims during CNN’s presidential debate earlier this summer that were either false or misleading. However, Trump – to no surprise – made far more false claims –

TO THE EDITOR

I truly loved seeing the art of the young people in last week’s issue. It’s great that they have the opportunity to showcase their talent and participate in the Summer Youth Employment Program.

Serena Mason Washington, D.C.

The back-to-school health supplement was excellent! It’s a great resource for parents and guardians preparing to return their children to school. Keep up the great work.

Edith Parker Washington, D.C.

more than 30 in all.

However, CNN failed to do its due diligence as it did not provide live fact checking that would have helped viewers emerge from the fog of ludicrous, unsubstantiated statements.

This time, the issue of age will not be the issue, unless Harris chooses to point out the fact that she, at 59 years old, is a generation younger than Trump who is 78 and now counts as the oldest presidential candidate in U.S. history. This time, we hope, what will transpire will be a real, honest debate between the two candidates, without finger pointing and false statements.

Presidential debates can make a difference in the outcome of general elections as history confirms

– most notably the first televised debate in 1960 between then Senator John F. Kennedy, the former underdog, who upended then Vice President Richard Nixon.

Nixon was the better known candidate nationally but he failed to win over voters who finally had the opportunity to both see and hear from the candidates.

So, in less than a month, Harris and Trump will stand before the American public and present their respective platforms and cases for why they believe they are the best candidate for president.

We just hope that two mature adults will show up – willing to “tell the truth and nothing but the truth.”

Americans deserve nothing less!

WI

OPINIONS/EDITORIALS

Guest Columnist

America Needs Kamala Harris to Win Because a 'House Divided Against Itself Cannot Stand'

Vice President Kamala Harris has the vision, the intellect and the heart to lead a conversation about how to preserve American democracy. As a country, we are still struggling to make this "a more perfect union."

We are an incredibly unique and beautifully diverse nation, blessed in so many ways. However, our history of cultural cleavage and racial

unrest still plagues us. At times, the ideological divide seems to be an unbridgeable chasm. There are those who would use political power to exploit our differences and undermine the very democratic institutions that have held us together as a nation. So, America is at the crossroads. What we choose to do between now and election day will determine our destiny. Will we work hard to keep our democracy, or will we be seduced to accept authoritarian rule? Let there be no doubt about it: The choice is upon us, and we will have

Guest

The

to live with the consequences of our collective decision for years to come.

As providence would have it, the American people are now being offered two very different candidates for president: one who is the embodiment of democratic norms, individual liberty and a respect for the rule of law. The other, a candidate who has not sought to hide his vision for America: a welcoming of authoritarian rule. He and his cohorts will work through a master plan (Project 2025) for gutting the federal bureaucracy with its system

of meritocracy, replacing it with one that favors cronyism and dictatorial decision-making.

For an example of how Trumpism would fundamentally change the American political system (with its checks and balances), one need only to observe how he has already transformed the Supreme Court into a vehicle of his power-grabbing. In its recent ruling on presidential immunity, six of the justices, disregarding precedent, placed the president above the law. These political hacks — parading as jurists sitting on the

Power of the Gumbo Spirit Was On Display at Paris Olympics

viewing their distinctive identities as sources of pride, cooperating together to achieve excellence and bring honor to their nation."

— Eboo Patel

"In addition to giving us countless thrilling moments of athletic excellence, the Summer Games have given the DEI movement the greatest gift it could ever hope for: a picture of success that can inspire people from across the political spectrum … They represent what makes America great: individuals from diverse backgrounds,

The power of the Gumbo spirit was on full display in Team USA at the 2024 Olympic Games in Paris.

The most diverse women's gymnastics team in U.S. history was the most decorated, with 10 medals total, three of them gold, including the coveted individual all-around.

Guest Columnist

In 2020, Black voters helped carry President Biden to the White House. But now that the president has done the right thing by stepping aside and passing the torch to Kamala Harris as the Democratic Party's nominee, Black America must now respond by rallying around the vice president and helping her win in No-

vember. It is the only way to stop Donald Trump and the MAGA movement that remains a threat to our nation's democracy and the future of Black America.

No demographic has been more supportive of Democrats and President Biden as the Black community. It was Rep. James Clyburn's ringing endorsement of Biden during the 2020 primaries, after all, that helped the candidate's flagging campaign win South Carolina and ride

Team USA members of every racial and ethnic background found success in Paris, bringing home the gold in track and field, swimming and other events. But the diversity of the women's gymnastics team has captured the world's attention, given the historic exclusion of women of color from the sport.

When Dominique Dawes competed in the Olympic trials for the 1992 Barcelona Games, she was the first Black gymnast to ever qualify. She was part of the celebrated "Magnificent Seven" in the

1996 Atlanta games who won the first-ever gold medal for the United States in the women's team competition.

A decade after Dawes Olympics debut, Gabby Douglas became the first Black woman of any nationality to win the all-around gold medal in gymnastics.

It would be absurd to argue that Black women were absent from Olympic gymnastics for nearly a century because of a lack of talent. It is an equally absurd argument to make about executive leadership in

highest court of the land — broke with 250 years of jurisprudence to give the president powers reserved for a king. So why did we fight the American Revolutionary War? Donald Trump is working in concert with many others who are prepared to destabilize our sacred democracy in favor of a system that is anathema to what has made America the envy of the world: A system that celebrates the consent of the governed and the rule of law.

GRANT Page 57

the nation's top corporations, admissions to elite colleges and universities, or the Oval Office.

The anti-racial justice extremists who want to ban DEI policies would doom Team USA to mediocrity just to assure their own place on the roster.

Diverse organizations — from Fortune 500 companies to Olympic gymnastics teams — perform better than exclusive organizations. People from different back-

the wave to the nomination. A massive turnout of Black voters in Georgia made Biden the first Democratic presidential nominee to win the state since Bill Clinton in 1992.

But this is not 2020. Genuine concerns about Biden's age and fitness for the office clearly eroded the confidence of Democratic voters, with poll after poll finding Biden further behind Trump nationally and in critical swing states. Critically, this included

waning enthusiasm among Black voters in states like Wisconsin, Pennsylvania and Michigan that will all but decide the election. It also threatens vulnerable down-ballot Democrats across the country — which could lead to total Republican control of the federal government.

It is why we saw incumbent Democrats facing challenging re-election battles increasingly pleading with Biden to step aside. Here in New York state, Rep. Pat

Ryan, in the midst of a heated battle for his upstate House seat, is one of the many congressional Democrats who called on Biden to bow out for the good of the party.

Now, Biden has made the courageous and selfless move to do so. And it is time for Black leaders and Black voters to enthusiastically get behind Kamala Harris and carry her to victory.

Marc H. Morial

Dr. Ron Daniels

Michael A. Grant

Columnist

Guest Columnist

'When We Fight,

it's Kamala Harris!

We Win!'

Sometimes a writer has to figure out what to write about because it seems that not much is happening. Everything seems to be about the same old problems, but Vice President Kamala Harris stepped up for us as soon as we began asking, "Who will go for us?" In the history of Black people someone among us has answered that call. This time

The Orange Man ran for his own good. He never accepted the fact that four years of him was a bit more than we could take. He never accepted the fact that he lost in 2020. He was in such disbelief that he tried to force the secretary of state in Georgia to come up with the number of votes he needed to win that state. We heard the telephone call where he thought nothing of speaking freely to Georgia Secretary of State Brad Raffensperger, who stood

Harris' Republicans

It is no surprise that police officers who protected the U.S. Capitol during the Jan. 6, 2021, attacks are now hitting the campaign trail for Vice President Kamala Harris. Former Capitol Police Officer Harry Dunn, former Capitol Police Sgt. Aquilino Gonell and current Metropolitan Police Department Officer Daniel "Danny" Hodges testified before the

House Select Committee investigating the Jan. 6 attack and are now joining the Democratic campaign with stops in Michigan, North Carolina and Georgia. According to the Harris-Walz campaign, the officers are meeting with elected officials and community leaders to highlight the urgent and immediate threat that former President Donald Trump poses to democracy. Dunn said that on prior trips, it was clear that even some local reporters he spoke with didn't fully understand what happened on Jan. 6. "Honestly, everybody doesn't know. We assume

firm against helping the Orange Man to illegally take votes he had not earned. That's a crime, and to his credit, Mr. Raffensperger did not budge — so the Orange Man came up short and lost the state of Georgia.

We later learned some of his most loyal supporters had made an effort to seek other means of getting more votes for the Orange Man by taking them from other states by way of a brazen act of sending illegal representatives to ignore the true votes and make

their own choices. I still find it such a brazen act to be carried out by so many of the Orange Man's minions!

Well, here we are in 2024 and it looks like the Orange Man's time is up. Vice President Kamala Harris stood up. She came to the game to run for President when President Joseph Biden decided not to run again. Vice President Kamala Harris was ready to answer the question, "Who will go for us?" Without hesitation she stepped up and said, "I'll go. Send me Lord,

If Not Now, When Will We Stand Up for Communities? Guest Columnist

The American education system is in a state of crisis. While many point to the COVID-19 pandemic as the primary driver of academic decline, the truth is that the pandemic only accelerated the pace of what has been a decadelong race to the bottom in American education.

The rapid erosion of an educa-

tion system of what was once the marvel of the world has hit African American students the hardest. Now, 60 years after the passage of the Civil Rights Act, many are left without the tools to enjoy the right to pursue the American dream previous generations fought so heroically to secure.

In America's biggest cities and on the outskirts of some of our most affluent communities, African American students are falling far behind. For years, that failure

that people know, living here, but in middle America, the average American, the regular voter, [it's about] getting them to understand that Donald Trump is a biggest threat to our democracy," Dunn said. "People really don't understand what happened on that day, and to be able to tell them as a firsthand witness, it's kind of refreshing and it's encouraging that people are willing to be receptive."

For their actions on that historic day, Dunn and each member of the U.S. Capitol Police and the Metropolitan Police Department are American he-

roes because Jan. 6 could have been much worse. They were public servants who made personal and professional sacrifices to ensure no lawmakers were harmed. Unfortunately, Dunn's comments show that despite credible news reporting and the public congressional oversight hearings and available facts, too many people remain misinformed regarding supporters of then-President Donald Trump, who attacked the U.S. Capitol. Despite the contrast of having a prosecutor versus a felon, millions of people have decided to support the felon as the next U.S. president. This

I'll go."

She brought with her such joy, then called Gov. Walz, and here we are three weeks later and just three months to go until Election Day! You might say, Kamala stepped onto the stage in a bigger, faster way than we were accustomed to seeing. Kamala had already done that. We Black women and some of our best friends called a meeting, led by Jotaka Eddy, and on the first night of Kamala's ascension

WILLIAMS Page 58

begs the question: How can the Republican Party, with any credibility, claim to be the party of "law and order" while a convicted felon awaits sentencing as its party's nominee? Former House Speaker Nancy Pelosi claims that members of the Republican Party have told her they want to see Donald Trump and J.D. Vance defeated in the 2024 presidential election. "The Republican Party has been hijacked, and it's now a cult, and they should take it back because the republic needs a

could be laid at the feet of teachers unions and entrenched bureaucrats who fought to trap these students in whatever low-quality public institution corresponded to their zip code. Even today, they're doing all they can to fight the prospect of competition delivered via school choice.

Today, these students face an even more pervasive threat: the replacement of the standard American curriculum with one drenched in radical ideology. Instead of giving them an education that helps them

succeed in their lives and contribute meaningfully to the world around them, today's kids must endure curricula designed to ingrain in them the notion that their lives are of little meaning and simply beyond their control. In public schools, children are identified primarily by the color of their skin and told that their dreams are restrained by a sophisticated racial and social hierarchy that are fundamentally unjust to them.

This is perhaps best demonstrat-

ed by the ongoing education crisis in our nation's capital, an education system where dreams go to die. In Washington, D.C., students are simply no longer showing up to school, with 4 in 10 chronically truant. Among these students, Black kids are 10 times more likely than white students to skip. Those that do are being failed. Data from 2023 show that only 11 percent of Black students in D.C. schools are proficient at math, and only 23 per-

David W. Marshall

Neil Mammen

Guest Columnist

E. Faye Williams

LIFESTYLE

By Jada Ingleton WI Comcast Digital Equity Fellow

Check out a handful of the many events happening in the DMV this weekend, from musical adaptations to historical invitations.

Thursday offers history buffs a chance to go to the National Museum of African History and Culture for “Big Objects, Big Stories: The Paradox of the Liberty.”

Music lovers are in for bustling nightlife on Friday, between D.C.’s tribute to anime, and R&B fans' opportunity to be mesmerized by the melodic tunes of Jon B.

Don’t miss your chance to see the musical retelling of Michael Jackson at The National Theatre, or party like it’s Bollywood with the annual celebration of Indo-Pak Independence Day.

Catch the 2024 Negro League Legends Hall of Fame East-West Vintage Baseball Game on Satur

happening in the DMV to keep your spirit -- and social life -- lit.

THURSDAY, AUG. 15

Big Objects, Big Stories: The Paradox of the Liberty 10:30 a.m. - 12:45 p.m. | Free National Museum of African American History and Culture, 1400 Constitution Ave. NW, Washington,

Join the Smithsonian National Museum of African American History and Culture for a docent-led tour, broken down into multiple 15-minute talks, where visitors will hear incredibly big stories

The paradox of the American Revolution is the fight for liberty in an era of widespread slavery. Talk with a museum docent and explore the tension between slavery and freedom – who belongs and who is excluded. Consider how this paradox resonates through the nation's history and spurs the American people to wrestle constantly with building “a

by Tony Award-winning director and choreographer Christopher Wheeldon and two-time Pulitzer Prize winner Lynn Nottage, “MJ” goes beyond the singular moves and signature sound of the star, offering a rare look at the creative mind and collaborative spirit that catapulted Michael Jackson into legendary status.

The show has thrilled sold out crowds on Broadway, in cities across North America, and in London's West End – and now “MJ” is “startin' somethin'” in Washington, D.C. as it makes its premiere.

FRIDAY, AUG. 16

Jon B.

7:30 p.m. | $69.50+

The Birchmere, 3701 Mt Vernon Ave, Alexandria, VA 22305

Dive into the world of Jon B, a celebrated R&B artist known for his velvety vocals and timeless hits. His ability to blend classic soul with modern vibes creates an atmosphere that's both nostalgic and fresh. Prepare for an evening that harmonizes smooth melodies and a vibrant ambiance, delivering a nightlife experience like no other.

The National Theatre, 1321 Pennsylvania Avenue NW, Washington,

Michael Jackson's unique and unparalleled artistry comes to the stage in “MJ,” the multiple Tony Award®-winning musical centered around the making of the 1992 Dangerous World Tour. Created

DC Anime Rave

10 p.m. | $28.00+

The Howard Theatre, 620 T St NW, Washington, D.C., 20001

Get ready for the ultimate an-

MJ The Musical, starring Elijah Johnson (center) as Michael Jackson, follows the development of the 1992 Dangerous World Tour and offers audiences a look into the creative mind and direction that catapulted the King of Pop into legendary status.

THINGS TO DO from Page 34

nual anime party! #WeTouchGrass Presents: DC Anime Rave, where anime lovers can dance the night away to their favorite anime tunes, indulge in acclaimed local cosplayers, enjoy anime-inspired food and drink vendors, and more fun. This 21+ event will also feature a cosplay contest and anime giveaways from event sponsors.

SATURDAY, AUG. 17

2024 NLLHOF East-West Vintage Baseball Game

1 p.m. - 8 p.m. | Free with registration

Prince George’s Stadium, 4101

Robert S. Crain Hwy, Bowie, MD 20716

The Negro League Legends Hall of Fame (NLLHOF) is hosting the 2024 East-West Vintage Baseball Game, an event that celebrates the 50th anniversary of Hank Aaron breaking Babe Ruth's home run record, featuring a USPS Forever Stamp in his honor. Attendees can explore a memorabilia section and enjoy a special salute to Levi ‘Champie’ Drew and Sam Allen. Additionally, there will be an Auto Showcase Benefit beginning at 10 a.m.

Indo-Pak Independence Day Bollywood Event

8 p.m. | $20.00+

Corral Lounge, 442 S Washington St, Falls Church, VA 22046

Indian-Americans and Pakistani-Americans unite annually to

celebrate Pakistan Independence Day (Aug. 14) and Indian Independence Day (Aug. 15). This month on Saturday, Aug. 17, there will be an inaugural Bollywood style Indo-Pak Independence Day celebration at Corral Lounge in Virginia.

Bollywood Cinema, with its characteristic Film Music, has not only spread all over Indian society, but also been on the forefront of the spread of India's culture around the World. This year hundreds of guests will sing and dance to the popular tunes of Bollywood and Hollywood with celebrity DJ SVP.

SUNDAY, AUG. 18

Sneaker Con

Noon - 7 p.m. | $34.60

Walter E. Washington Convention Center, 801 Mt Vernon Pl NW, Washington, D.C., 20001

Sneaker Con 2024 brings a joint celebration for anywhere from 300 to 500 vendors, brands, and partners to gather and commemorate 15 years of business and productivity.

With a continued goal to serve the community and create a path for new sneakerheads to enter the world of buying, selling and trading, Sneaker Con has designed over 500 products in 15 years, and have collaborated with the likes of Jeff Staple, Diamond Supply Co., Steven Harrington, A Bathing Ape, Sean Wotherspoon, Jeff Hamilton, Spalding, Crocs, Mitchell & Ness, eBay, MGM Resorts, and the list goes on.

This will be an epic year and commemoration for not just Sneaker Con but for all of the vendors, partners, attendees, and fans who have supported the collective for over a decade. Come out and embrace each event through exciting programming and exclusive merch capsules, hitting some iconic cities and some new ones, both in the U.S. and International.

WI

3(Courtesy Photo/MJ The Musical, Instagram)

A NN IVE R SA R Y 20TH

JACOB COLLIER•SAMARA JOY•DNICE•STANLEY CLARKE N 4EVER•RON CARTER TRIO•KENNY BARRON TRIO•DIANNE REEVES•GALACTIC•BOBBY SANABRIA MULTIVERSE BIG BAND•TERRI LYNE CARRINGTON CIMAFUNK•CARMEN LUNDY•BILL FRISELL•DAVID MURRAY QUARTET•LAKECIA BENJAMIN•JAMES MORRISON•EMMET COHEN TRIO FT. HOUSTON PERSON NICHOLAS PAYTON•CHUCK BROWN BAND•GENERATIONS OF THE DRUM: TRIBUTE TO BILLY HART•CORCORAN HOLT QUINTET PAOLO FRESU•BRANDEE YOUNGER•KRIS DAVIS' DIATOM RIBBONS•JAZZDC ALLSTARS DIR. BY ALLYN JOHNSON ANTONIO HART•NEW JAZZ UNDERGROUND•SHARÓN CLARK NASAR ABADEY AND SUPERNOVA•AND MORE LABOR DAY WEEKEND | WASHINGTON, DC AUGUST 28–SEPTEMBER 1, 2024

Lessons Still Being Learned in Ferguson, Missouri 10 Years After Michael Brown Jr.’s Murder

By Brenda C. Siler WI Contributing Writer

A decade ago, much of the nation and world watched as protestors took to the streets to fight for justice for 18-year-old Michael Brown who was killed on August 9, 2014 by Ferguson police. A special television presentation, “13 Days in Ferguson,” recounts those days following the fatal killing of Brown and reveals the rawness of emotions after the teen’s death, which not only sparked protests, but conversations about police reform and working toward true freedom and justice for all.

For the actor, comedian and executive producer, what is depicted in this one-hour special is personal because his long-time friend and fraternity brother, Captain Ron Johnson of the Missouri Highway Patrol, was put in charge of the law enforcement groups charged with keeping the peace. Further, Cedric and Johnson grew up in the area, so the trials in Ferguson, literally hit home.

This television special is based

on Johnson's book of the same title, which he wrote in 2018. In “13 Days in Ferguson,” Cedric and Johnson revisit key places and recall how confrontations between protesters and police escalated in ways that continued devastating the city and caught the attention of the White House.

Johnson made tough decisions during a 13-day period while being undermined by decisions made above him. Little by little, Johnson makes inroads in his communication with Brown’s family and citizens in Ferguson.

“It’s gonna take years, and this cannot continue to be our truth,” said Johnson about the trauma that impacted Ferguson.

“13 Days in Ferguson” airs on the CBS Television Network on Aug. 9 at 10:00 p.m. ET.

It will also stream on Paramount+ (live and on-demand for Paramount+ with SHOWTIME subscribers or on-demand for Paramount+ Essential subscribers the day after the episode airs)

WI @bcscomm

5A special television presentation, “13 Days in Ferguson,” recounts the days following the fatal killing of Michael Brown Jr. (Courtesy Photo)

D.C. High School Students Learn About Careers in the Arts Through Bloomberg Arts Internships

By Brenda C. Siler WI Contributing Writer

This summer 18 local cultural organizations hosted high school students through the Bloomberg Arts Internship (BAI) program, where participants learned essential workplace skills that are applicable in any sector.

The seven-week BAI program is a part of Bloomberg Philanthropies. One of the BAI placement organizations is Sitar Arts Center on Kalorama Road in Northwest D.C. This is the third consecutive year BAI has brought the paid internship program to Sitar, with 45 public high school students participating.

One of the BAI students this summer has been Taylor Banks, a rising senior at the Duke Ellington School of the Arts. Banks is in the visual arts program at the Northwest, D.C. high school.

“We have different program-

ming, including an early childhood afterschool, a program for teens, one for young adults. Sitar also provides career training,” said Jennifer Huddnell, Sitar’s director of communications. “Teens like Taylor work together on Sitar’s mural art projects throughout the year.”

It was Banks’ father who learned about the BAI program through a Sitar email thread. He showed it to his daughter, and Taylor thought the program was cool, so she wanted to go for it.

Through the BAI program, Banks was assigned to the Hillwood Estate, Museum and Gardens on the edge of Rock Creek Park on Linnean Avenue in Northwest. Hillwood was the home of its founder Marjorie Merriweather Post, a cultural arts philanthropist. The Merriweather Post Pavilion in Columbia, Maryland was named in her honor. Being onsite at Hillwood widened Banks’ view about a museum environment.

THE RIGHT MORTGAGE AWAITS.

Part of Banks' internship has been learning how to give five-minute presentations about various aspects of the estate. She gave a portion of one talk about an unfinished portrait of Post. Banks showed her skills in using descriptive language to guide visitors to find something in the portrait that might be easily overlooked.

“I was drawn to that portrait because I'm a painter. I liked how you could see the painter's process in the portrait and the likeness of Post’s face,” said Banks. “My presentation is a conversation because the portrait has a beautiful backstory.”

Those presentation skills acquired through this internship were useful for an art competition during the NAACP Convention this summer. Banks won a Gold Award for one of her drawings, where she had to discuss her work.

The Sitar and Hillwood experiences have further defined Banks’

vision for college. She is looking at dual-degree programs, where she can study art and some of her other interests, like psychology.

“I want to go to college and get my bachelor’s in fine arts with a focus on studio arts. It’s something I am really passionate about,” said Banks. “ I want to be able to show my art in galleries, travel the world,

and bring that into my art.”

To learn more about Sitar Community Arts and their programs for children to adults up to age 24, visit the website at sitarartscenter. org For information about the Bloomberg Arts Internships, visit bloomberg.org.

WI @bcscomm You

Let

5At Hillwood Estate, Museum and Garden in Northwest, D.C., intern Taylor Banks gives a short presentation. (Ja’Mon Jackson/The Washington Informer)

August

August

August 18:

August 25: Shaunté

September 1:

5Bryan and Michael Voltaggio’s first restaurant, Voltaggio

MGM

tional Harbor, has always been intended to serve as an elevated dining option that offers delectable food, while providing nostalgia and flair, like

a tasty twist on SpaghettiO's, and the Blue Crab Pop Tart.

Informer)

Brothers Michael and Bryan Voltaggio Welcome Diners to Their Home Away from Home at MGM National Harbor

By Micha Green WI Managing Editor

Designed as five rooms in a house, Bryan and Michael Voltaggio’s first restaurant, Voltaggio Brothers at MGM National Harbor, has always been intended to serve as an elevated dining option that offers delectable food with flair, and the comfort of being at home all at once.

“We want you guys to get involved in the process, we want you to have fun, we want this to feel like we’re at home inviting you guys over to our house,” said Michael at a recent media dinner, adding jokes at his brother’s expense throughout his brief welcome speech.

“You saw how this all worked when we were growing up,” Bryan said, adding to the hilarious sibling dynamic. “Truly welcome to our house.”

Beyond the brotherly banter, which some folks might miss as

Michael lives in California, there’s so much food that makes diners feel at home. There’s Voltaggi’Os, a savory, flavorful tasty twist on SpaghettiO's, with O-shaped noodles made in-house and a chicken parmesan meatball.

There’s also deviled eggs with a twist– the Voltaggio Brothers dish includes caviar at the bottom– which though diners know it’s coming, it’s truly a happy, salty, surprise.

Then there’s the Blue Crab Pop Tart, which intersects the familiarity of the tostable treat, with Maryland’s beloved crustacean and uses homemade pie crust to seal the delicious deal.

There’s a feeling of comfort mixed in every bite at Voltaggio Brothers, which Michael called their other home.

“This is where we come home to cook, come home to cook together, come home to cook for you

Brothers at

Na-

Voltaggi’Os,

(Micha Green/The Washington

guys,” Michael said.

From the soft, warm, fluffy “Steak House Rolls,” served at the beginning of the meal, to the flavorful and refreshing tuna ceviche, and the dessert featuring chocolate cake and key lime, everything was so well-prepared and would make anyone wish that they could get such food at “home” every day.

However, as homey as the restaurant can feel, this is elevated fare.

“You’ll see some deep ruby red, beautiful tuna that’s glazed in hibiscus ponzu. There’s an ice that’s sort of on it as well,” Michael said of the ceviche.

Beyond the delicious food and homey atmosphere, the restaurant’s open kitchen concept allows for some diners to get a perfect view of what’s happening in the kitchen, while there. However, even if one is not taking in the behind the scenes while dining, the Voltaggios hope that each diner has a tasty, relaxing and joyful experience at the restaurant– or home away from home.

“We want you guys to get involved in the process, we want you to have fun, we want this to feel like we’re at home inviting you guys over to our house,” Michael said. “By the end of the night there should be no strangers in this restaurant.” WI

TENANTS from Page 29 flooding in her basement-level apartment. When the rainwater clogged the sewage line, raw sewage flowed into her apartment and that of several of her neighbors.

Such expenditures, they said, prove too much for what they called a dangerous living situation. Addressing the issues at The Residences, the tenant said, requires all hands on deck.

“If I’m having issues, I’m thinking there’s other stuff going on here,” the tenant told The Informer.

TENANTS TAKE THEIR CASE TO THE COURTS

Tenants and organizers told The Informer that changes in property management, and high turnover among staff, increased the frequency of missing documents and ledgers providing inaccurate accounting of what tenants owe.

Tensions due to what tenants call Serenity Management’s lack of professionalism reached a crescendo earlier this month when a staff member allegedly called the police on a tenant and banned them from the leasing office.

Another tenant is scheduled for an eviction later this month. Organizers say that the tenant has requested, for years, that building management address the black mold growing in their unit.

This would continue to be the case for years to come.

As Hawkins recounted, staff members from Serenity Management told her last year that she would be transferred to another unit. That arrangement never came to fruition, she said, because Serenity Management lost documentation that she submitted, on different occasions, to each of the three property managers who previously worked on behalf of the property management company.

To this day, Serenity Management and Hawkins are at a standstill about the move to another apartment, due to Hawkins’ refusal to pay rent on her current apartment.

The Informer unsuccessfully attempted to gather comment from Serenity Management.

On Aug. 27, Hawkins will appear in Housing Conditions Court to demand that Serenity Management addresses her unit’s structural issues. She counts among dozens of tenants at The Residences at St. Elizabeths who want to hold Serenity Management and the Anacostia Economic Development Corporation accountable through these legal channels.

By DC Black MBA Association

For more information and to register for the event, visit www.dcblackmbaa.org. Don’t miss this opportunity to be part of a movement that celebrates and amplifies the voices of women leading the way in STEAM. VOLTAGGIO from Page 38

Women’s Work in the Lab

The Washington, DC Chapter of the National Black MBA Association (NBMBAA) will host the 6th annual Women's Symposium at the College Park Marriott Hotel and Conference Center. This year's theme, Full STEAM Ahead: Women Leading the Way, celebrates the pivotal roles women play in the fields of Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts, and Mathematics (STEAM). The symposium aims to inspire and equip women to lead and excel in these under-represented fields.

The symposium boasts a distinguished lineup of panelists who are trailblazers in their respective fields. Some of the panels include:

At one point, Tonya Hawkins counted among those who were facing eviction for similar reasons. She said that experience taught her about her rights as a tenant fighting for the proper living conditions.

“I feel [like they’ve] taken advantage [of me] especially when they took me to court,” Hawkins told The Informer. “It seemed very predatory, like they’re trying to order everyone to move out.”

In the fall of 2021, not long after moving into The Residences at St. Elizabeths East, Hawkins reported

“Everyone has an oppositional approach to our issues when the building is an issue for everyone,” Hawkins said.

“We have suggested several resolutions to the issues…but management and [building owners] are more interested in evicting tenants than abating the building's many code violations.” WI @SamPKCollins

• Kim Roxie: Founder of LAMIK Beauty, Kim Roxie is a pioneer in the beauty industry, known for her innovative approach to inclusive beauty products. She has been recognized for her efforts to create makeup that caters to all skin tones and types, empowering women to embrace their natural beauty.

• Arion Long: CEO of Femly, Arion Long has revolutionized the feminine care industry with her eco-friendly and health-conscious products. Her personal journey and commitment to women’s health have driven her to create a brand that prioritizes sustainability and wellness.

• Kerene N. Tayloe, Esq.(keynote speaker): As the Associate Director for the Office of Community Engagement, Kerene Tayloe leverages her legal expertise to advocate for environmental justice and community empowerment. Her work focuses on creating equitable solutions for marginalized communities affected by environmental issues.

One highlight of the symposium is a panel powered by Tokiwa T. Smith Consulting; titled STEM is Black Women's Work. This panel features Black women professionals who have made significant contributions to the STEM fields:

• Dr. Kim Burnett: As the Regional Manager of STEM Partnerships at the Micron Foundation, Dr. Kim Burnett works to build partnerships that advance STEM education and create opportunities for underrepresented groups. Her efforts aim to foster a more inclusive and diverse STEM workforce.

• Dr. Marguerite Matthews: Serving as the Section Chief Career Preparation in the Office of Programs to Enhance the Neuroscience Workforce at the National Institutes of Health (NIH), Dr. Marguerite Matthews is dedicated to preparing the next generation of neuroscientists. Her work focuses on career development programs that support aspiring researchers.

Dr. Carletta S. Hurt, President of the Washington, DC Chapter of the NBMBAA, shared her excitement about the symposium, stating, "We are thrilled to bring together such a dynamic group of women who are making significant strides in their fields. Our goal is to empower and equip women with the knowledge and resources they need to lead and excel in STEAM careers. This event is a testament to the incredible potential and achievements of Black women in STEAM.”

The symposium promises to be an enriching experience filled with networking opportunities, engaging discussions, and valuable insights from these phenomenal women in STEAM. Attendees will have the chance to connect with like-minded professionals, gain practical advice, and be inspired by the stories of these remarkable women. The Lanta Evans-Motte Youth Advocate Award and the Catherine W. LeBlanc Legacy Award will be presented during the symposium for the second year.

“This time, it’s different.” TREATMENT WORKS. RECOVERY IS POSSIBLE.

 Free substance use disorder treatment available 7 days a week

 Three medications to help

 Better coordinated treatment services

 Peer counselors who have been there

 Transportation, recovery housing, and more

Enjoy Great Food and Meal Deals during RAMW’s Summer Restaurant Week, Aug. 12

By Brenda C. Siler WI Contributing Writer

Enjoy great food and meal deals with family and friends during the Restaurant Association of Metropolitan Washington’s (RAMW) Summer Restaurant Week, which is going on now through Aug. 18.

More than 350 restaurants representing 75 cuisines in D.C., Maryland, and Virginia will set their tables with special menu items for lunch, brunch, and dinner at exceptional pricing. RAMW has made it easy to find participating restaurants with a selection chart where diners can enter a restaurant name, cuisine, neighborhood, pricing and other parameters.

“Whether you’re a longtime resident or a visitor, this Restaurant Week offers a unique opportunity to explore

the rich and varied flavors that define our culinary scene,” said Shawn Townsend, president and CEO of RAMW. “We are excited to showcase the incredible diversity and talent of our local chefs and restaurateurs.”

Some new participants in RAMW’s Summer Restaurant Week include D.C. restaurants BeerLab DC, Claudio Stable, ilili, and JINYA at Walter Reed. Maryland newcomers are Joy by Seven Reasons and The Grove, and Virginia diners can check out Clyde’s at Mark Center, Ometeo, and Surreal.

Several restaurants reviewed in The Washington Informer are participating in Summer Restaurant Week, including dLeña, Truluck’s Ocean’s Finest Seafood and Crab, Makers Union, and All Set Restaurant.

Check out all of the Restaurant

to 18

Week options on the RAMW website at ramw.org. WI @bcscomm

“Whether you’re a longtime resident or a visitor, this Restaurant Week offers a unique opportunity to explore the rich and varied flavors that define our culinary scene,” said Shawn Townsend, president and CEO of RAMW.

4Makers Union serves a Hickory House Smoked Salmon over creamy mushroom quinoa, green beans, and mustard vinaigrette. (Courtesy Photo/ Makers Union)

CHARTER SCHOOL from Page 1 frames and newly styled locs, calmly but confidently walked across the stage. Though he thought the day would never come, Patrick admitted that it left him hungry for more.

“It’s not the same feeling I thought I would have but it’s a stepping stone and a strong start for new opportunities,” said Patrick, a newly minted alumnus of Thurgood Marshall Academy Public Charter School, who recently entered an electrical apprenticeship program.

This summer, Patrick persevered through world history -- the last course needed to complete high school -- with the support of friends, family, and Thurgood Marshall Academy staff members Brian Moore and Hazmat Saba.

He said that, along the way to high school graduation, he learned about himself and his potential for greatness.

“If I keep going, I can overcome anything. I could never give up with the right people in my corner,” Patrick, 19, told The Informer with his friends within earshot planning the next move for the day. “I was disappointed [when I didn’t graduate on time] but my friends were there for me, as long as I walked across the stage.”

WORDS OF WISDOM FROM THOSE WHO’VE BEEN THERE

Two dozen young people from seven public charter schools braved a torrential downpour to participate in the D.C. Public Charter School Summer Graduation, hosted by the D.C. Public Charter School Board (DCPCSB) and D.C. Charter School Alliance.

The Aug. 9 event brought hundreds of family, friends, and charter school staff members who cheered on the graduates as they walked into the auditorium, each with a cap and gown color specific to their public charter school. The cheers continued as each graduate’s photo appeared on a screen at the front of the auditorium.

Those in attendance included Dr. Michelle J. Walker-Davis, DCPCSB executive director, and D.C. State Board of Education Representatives Jacque Patterson (At-large) and Eboni-Rose Thompson (Ward 7).

The public charter schools represented at the graduation were: Friendship Collegiate Academy Public Charter School; Girls Glob-

al Academy Public Charter School; IDEA Public Charter School; KIPP DC College Preparatory Public Charter School; Paul Public Charter School; Thurgood Marshall Academy Public Charter High School; and Washington Leadership Academy Public Charter School.

Shantelle Wright, DCPCSB board member, served as the mistress of ceremonies. Graduates heard recorded congratulatory remarks from D.C. Council members Robert White (D-At large), Zachary Parker (D-Ward 5) and Charles Allen (D-Ward 6).

Dr. Antoinette S. Mitchell, interim state superintendent and native Washingtonian, later took to the podium. She invoked the legacy of her great-grandmother and grandfather as she spoke in solidarity with students who, just like her ancestors, are living through perilous times.

“You powered past COVID, distance learning and all that happens in our city and [around the] world,” Mitchell said. “You completed the preparation and deserve a round of applause. The opportunity part is ahead of you.”

Tamiya Walker, IDEA PCS graduate and student speaker, kept it short and sweet as she too spoke about her grandmother, whose health problems weighed heavily on her and almost derailed her path to high school graduation.

“The road to get here wasn’t easy but I did it,” said Tamiya, an aspiring nurse and realtor. “This milestone is the beginning of my bright future. I would like to thank the staff for pushing me to the finish line. This is the time when things got tough. I wanted to give up on myself, but you didn’t.”

Moments later, Angel Gregorio, founder and owner of Spice Suite, gave a commencement address in acknowledgment of her tumultuous upbringing and friends that helped her matriculate through Banneker Academic High School and Howard University. She channeled the wisdom of Kendrick Lamar, Eminem, J. Cole, and even Albert Einstein as she implored graduates to live life fearlessly with the right people in their corner.

“Your tribe will ask you to brag and force you to go harder,” Gregorio told the graduates. “If you’re scared, do it scared. The best life is lived without regret. Bring people with you to the top. Sometimes, the only time you will make it is with someone else.”

Graduates Give an Ode to Supportive Families

Yarisbel Maloney told The Informer that she wouldn’t have been able to make it to graduation without her family and support system at Girls Global Academy PCS.

This summer, Maloney retook a ninth grade English course she failed while attending Banneker Academic High School virtually as a freshman. With a high school diploma, she has her sights set on college, where she hopes to study criminal justice and psychology.

“It took me a while to learn to keep going and always look at the bright side,” said Maloney, an 18-year-old soccer phenom who’s also exploring a career as a student athlete and coach. “Even though I failed, it didn't mean that I [wouldn’t] keep going. My mom, grandma and counselor were always there for me, looking for new ways to get me where I’m supposed to be.”

Not too far from Maloney, legions of family members, including parents, grandparents, aunts,

BOWSER from Page 1

to continue his legacy of service.

"Joe Bowser was tough, he was bold, and he was uncompromising when it came to doing what’s right. And I wouldn’t be where I am today without him. Simply put, he was the best father and mentor a daughter could ask for,” Mayor Bowser said in a statement.

The three-hour service felt more like a specially called meeting of the North Michigan Park Civic Association or Advisory Neighborhood Commission 5 A, which Bowser led for more than three decades.

“You only needed to make it over the Ward 5 Border to run into Joe Bowser,” said former D.C. Mayor Adrian Fenty. “Unlike a lot of other people Joe Bowser didn't have his agenda… He wasn't in it for a salary or a contract after the election. He was in it because he loved D.C., he loved politics and he knew to bring positive change to the community you had to get off the sidelines and get involved.”

Fenty, former District Mayor Vincent Gray, and former Councilmembers Vincent Orange, and Brandon Todd, all talked about how the late Bowser was serious and passionate about his work in politics.

“Unlike others who always joked and teased he was always no-nonsense and I liked that,” Fenty said.

There were also speakers from the Knights of Columbus, the Kiwanis Club, and the Archdi -

uncles, siblings, and cousins, surrounded KIPP College Preparatory PCS graduate Mekahi Fisher in the lobby of Capital Turnaround after the graduation ceremony.

This summer, Fisher retook English, a class he failed, not due to his lack of ability, but because of attendance issues. That experience, he said, showed him the power of

ocese of Washington.

“When you look around the room you see people who have built up the city of God in the nation's capital for generations,” said Monsignor Raymond East of St. Theresa of Avila Catholic Church.

Virginia Ali, owner of the Ben’s Chili Bowl restaurants, spoke of Bowser’s legacy as she left the church.

“All of the people who were here today were here to pay tribute to this wonderful human being and his biggest job was to set an example for his daughter and his son and that's why we have a mayor like we have today.”

Ali told The Informer.

JOE BOWSER: THE ‘FAMILY MAN’

The late Bowser was born in Washington, DC on October 5, 1935. He joined the Army Reserves in 1952 and retired as a Sergeant First Class in 1995. He married Joan Bowser and the two purchased their only home in the mid 1960’s. Bowser worked in the DC Public School System for 44 years and he retired as a Facilities Manager.

The Bowsers, like many families in North Michigan Park, were proud and wanted what was best for their children. He was preceded in death by his parents, siblings, and his daughter Mercia. He is survived by his wife Joan and children Martin,

a strong support system. He expressed no plans to disappoint his cheerleaders as he pursues at least one trade.

“My family wanted me to do better,” said Fisher, 18. “They pushed me and they motivated me. I was coming to school almost every day and not taking it seriously. I learned that I don’t have to waste my time.” WI

Marvin, Mark, and Muriel, a sister Regina, six grandchildren and 10 great-grands, and a host of nieces and nephews.

Marvin Bowser had many names for his father.

“Sgt First Class, Army Reservist, senior citizen, basketball coach, proud Black man, Catholic, homeowner, photographer, CB Radio guy, networker, lover of people, native Washingtonian, family man, my father,” Marvin Bowser said of his late father. During the service, Marvin Bowser reflected on the family gatherings down at Eagle Harbor Maryland, and family trips to California.

“I want to thank my mother and all of the care providers who took excellent care of my father as his body got weak but his mind remained clear. He always felt loved and cared for,” said Marvin Bowser.

Even though the mayor didn't speak during the service, she issued a statement where she talked about what her father meant to her.

“For 52 years, my dad has been at my side — guiding me, cheering for me, loving me," Mayor Bowser said. "He was the first person to take me to a community meeting. The first person to teach me that if something needs to be fixed, then step up and fix it — and finish any job you start.

WI

Read more on washingtoninformer.com.

5Graduates celebrate completing high school at the public charter summer school graduation Aug. 9. (Robert R. Roberts/The Washington Informer)

re you looking to earn some money this summer?

You can become an entrepreneur! That’s a person who starts a business.

Fill in the missing vowels to discover some ideas for types of businesses YOU can start this summer!

What’s an entrepreneur?

An entrepreneur (on-trah-preh-nyur) is a person who sees a way to earn some money by solving a particular problem.

For example, lots of kids have learned that thirsty people on hot days will pay for a cold glass of lemonade.

Entrepreneurial Thinking

Can you see the job opportunity in each of these pictures? Look at each picture. What problems do you see here? What kind of help might they be willing to pay for?

One way to make money is to get a job. But that is not possible for everyone. Often times kids can’t get jobs because they are too young.

But that hasn’t stopped kids around the world from finding clever ways of earning some cash. Some kids, like Jason, turn doing something they love into a way of earning money.

Look at each of the following pictures. Write down ways a business you could start might be able to help.

Round It

Look through the newspaper for five prices under $100. Round each one to the nearest dollar. Then look for five prices over $100 and round them to the nearest dollar. Have a parent or friend check your work.

Business Search

Look through the newspaper and make a list of all the businesses mentioned. Group these businesses into groups such as restaurants, stores, manufacturers, etc. Put each list into alphabetical order.

Standards Link: Research: Organize information from research into categories.

review wi book

"Make College Your Superpower"

By Anna Esaki-Smith

c.2024, Rowman &

$30 / 189 pages

Littlefield

"Rethinking College: A Guide to Thriving without a Degree"

by

Karin Klein

c.2024, Harper Horizon

$29.99 / 256 pages

Terri Schlichenmeyer WI Contributing Writer

horoscopes

LIFESTYLE

AUGUST 15 - 21, 2024

ARIES Getting on the same page as colleagues, and being able to sell whatever result you're pulling for, comes more naturally early in the week. Take advantage of opportunities to network and your professional star will rise! Later, you'll be focused on innovative ways you can broaden your horizons and enjoy eye-opening activities outside your usual routine. Lucky Numbers: 7, 9, 11

TAURUS You'll feel empowered to get in touch with your most sensual needs and open up about them to trusted companions at the start of the week. You might notice that your intuition is especially sharp and your emotions are extra intense. Being able to use both as fuel for your love life can make for a steamy, spiritually game-changing time with someone special. Lucky Numbers: 15, 20, 55

GEMINI Redefining a significant relationship, perhaps with a dear friend or lover, might be on your agenda. If you feel like reciprocity has been lacking, or you need to have a crucial heart-to-heart to better understand one another's needs, now is a fruitful time to set the tone you've been hoping for. Later, you'll do well to reflect on any reality checks you've had related to your professional aspirations over the past few months. Lucky Numbers: 12, 15, 48

CANCER You'll feel like shrugging off relationships that don't feel intimate or stimulating in an emotional and intellectual way at the start of the week. Instead, one-on-one connections that make you feel alive and comfortable in your own skin are your focus, and they can only grow stronger under this influence. Later, you'll have a special opportunity to get clear on health aspirations and make them a reality. Lucky Numbers: 17, 19, 27

There are about to be a lot of lasts in your household in the coming months.

The last first day of school. The last homecoming, the last Christmas program or sports event you'll have to attend. The last spring break, the final prom, and the last day of school, they'll all be bittersweet, but you'll manage. As in these new books about college, you've got big decisions to make first.\

College or not? It's a big question for every high school senior. And the answer is …

In her new book "Make College Your Superpower" (Rowman & Littlefield, $30), author Anna Esaki-Smith says "It's a great time to be a student" because, though life has been "weird" with the pandemic, shutdowns, and such, "Technology has changed everything."

Today's students know a lot about technology, for one thing — possibly more than do their professors, giving students "an edge." Facial recognition on a variety of campuses have recently shown more "happy" faces than ever before.

To be one of those satisfied students, she says, don't go by magazine rankings. Learn the smart ways to apply to the right college for you. Play up what you do best, not what you love most. Take the quizzes and the workbook-like questionnaires in this book and know yourself. Be savvy about finances and the lack thereof.

And get out and meet people! That's part of what college is for.

Then again, college is not for everyone.

In the new book "Rethinking College" by Karin Klein (Harper Horizon, $29.99), you'll learn that despite what you've been told for most of your high school career, you can thrive and succeed without a four-year degree.

Volunteer work is a valid way to gain experience that could open doors in environmental groups, food pantries and service groups that offer some paid positions within the organization. An apprenticeship may be a way to learn a trade through on-the-job instruction while also receiving a wage; an internship could accomplish the same. Exploring how one's talents can be turned into a job is always possible, especially if what you love doing is in high demand. Or you could take your visionary skills and start your own business with surprisingly less money than you may have thought possible.

This is the kind of book you want to give the high schooler who's not so-called college material, or who chafes against what college has to offer. It also opens a whole world of possibility for anyone who's older, with high school long behind them.

If these books aren't exactly what you or your high school senior needs for the next few months and beyond, then ask your local librarian or bookseller for help. They'll have books for you on surviving Freshman year, on knowing what to expect at college, on homesickness and missing your teenager, and on how to land a great apprenticeship, non-profit position, or how to start your own business. Your librarian or bookseller will have something for your Year of Lasts, and the first book you'll want for success. WI

LEO At the week's start, you'll be drawn to routines that allow you to both spend time with friends and put in the work to take your health practices to the next level. Hitting up a cardio class with new and old friends, or joining an online fitness community where you can talk about your wins and challenges could feel empowering and motivating. Lucky Numbers: 3, 16, 19

VIRGO When the week begins, meditate on what you need to feel more secure and centered. Whether you're considering redecorating a room with more plants, prioritizing online chats with loved ones, or sharing deep-rooted emotions with your nearest and dearest, now's the time to be true to yourself and devote your time to whichever activities feel truly grounding. Lucky Numbers: 12, 48, 55

LIBRA You'll do well to look back on any eye-opening lessons you've had over the past few months related to your health routine at the week's start. These lessons were the result of illusions being stripped away, and they'll offer you valuable insight into how you might want to tweak ongoing fitness and mind-body habits in the months ahead. Later, you may feel rising anger and frustration related to a creative disagreement on the job. Lucky Numbers: 17, 23, 32

SCORPIO You could be engrossed in witty text repartee, intellectually stimulating debates, and sharing your sexiest daydreams face-to-face early in the week. Expressing yourself in a bevy of ways and exchanging ideas with your significant other or a potential partner makes for steamy foreplay. Later, if you've felt fired up to apply for a new position or take on more responsibility on the job, consider taking action now. Lucky Numbers: 21, 26, 29

SAGITTARIUS When the week begins, you'll find that creative brainstorming with colleagues or friends could be your best bet for bolstering your cash flow. The energy also lends itself to group activities, animated exchanges of ideas, and artistic approaches, so combining those forces could set you up for financial gain. Later, it's your annual opportunity to take a magnifying glass to your big-picture personal goals and think about how you might want to tweak your approach. Lucky Numbers: 21, 22, 30

CAPRICORN You'll want to put self-care activities and pleasurable, romantic pursuits at the top of your agenda early in the week. Though your instincts are always to get work done first, allowing yourself a time-out to recharge and reconnect with loved ones and your own emotional core is crucial for your spirit now. You deserve all the heartfelt fun you're craving! Lucky Numbers: 11, 17, 34

AQUARIUS Early in the week, give in to any urges to introduce yourself in a social setting or reconnect with colleagues from your past. Conversations and collaborations you initiate now can have a positive effect on your personal and professional growth. Later, think back on any reality checks you might have had over the past few months related to your daily work and other moneymaking projects. Lucky Numbers: 2, 15, 32

PISCES Set aside time to brainstorm new ways to pitch your passion project when the week begins. In this significant moment, all eyes might be on you to step up to the plate in a public way. Knowing what you want to achieve and how exactly you'll do it will give you an advantage when higher-ups offer you the chance to make your case. Later, if you've had a rude awakening about your main personal goals at some point over the past few months, make sure you bear that in mind. Lucky Numbers: 2, 10, 45

SPORTS

Washington Commanders

Rookie

Quarterback Jayden

Daniels Shines In NFL Debut

By Skylar Nelson WI Intern

Rookie quarterback Jayden

Daniels has been the major topic of discussion surrounding the Washington Commanders ahead of the upcoming season. Despite a loss on Saturday, Aug. 10, the former Louisiana State University quarterback, 2023 Heisman Trophy winner, and 2024 NFL No. 2 overall draft pick impressed the franchise and fans in the preseason debut against the New York Jets. Daniels came to the game wearing the jersey of Washington leg-

end Doug Williams. Doug was the first African American quarterback to play in the Super Bowl. Williams completed 18-of-29 passes for 340 yards along with four touchdown passes, earning Super Bowl XXII MVP honors.

“Before I left it was just in my closet. Like, hey, what better way to have a debut first game, and represent Doug and what he did for the organization,” said Daniels.

Although Daniels played limited snaps, along with the team not having three prominent offensive tackles— Cornelius Lucas (personal reasons), Andrew Wylie

(tightness in undisclosed area), and Brandon Coleman (shoulder injury)--- on the field, he still managed to have an eventful series.

Daniels completed two of three passes for 45-yards, and even a three-yard swing pass to Commanders wide receiver Terry McLaurin.

“[To] go out there and play football, play at the high level, it was fun,” said Daniels.

Daniels started his series off planning to make a deliberate pass to running back Austin Ekeler, but the rookie quarterback zoomed by the running back moving the Commanders forward 3-and-6.

On the next play, Daniels made a check, organizing a pass execution to wide receiver Dyami Brown on the right sideline going deep downfield. This play was not only a standout, but got the team excited moving onward up the field.

“Being able to connect Dyami down the line of scrimmage down the field, I know that gave him confidence,” Daniels explained post-game. “He made a tough catch later on, on a curveball from (quarterback) Jeff [Driskell]. But just seeing the little steps in order to be successful and execute at level.”

Daniels also expressed to reporters that Offensive Coordinator Kliff Kingsbury told him that if he didn’t like the look of play, just check another one.

Head Coach Dan Quinn expressed his excitement on the play between Daniels and Brown. He said Daniels showed no fear in making checks leading to outstanding plays.

“I think it probably illustrates for him the awareness in the checks and the things that go into it,” Quinn said of Daniels. It was a really cool play.”

Daniels executed the Commanders’ longest yard reception of the day at 42-yards, making it the top highlight out of all 11 plays in his series, adding to the success of an impressive NFL debut.

Despite the series consisting of eight runs, Daniels directed the offense in the backfield and moved swiftly throughout each play. His ability to read the field and make quick decisions showed the rookie’s growth in leadership.

But that’s not all. Daniels showed another key aspect of his game which is athleticism in a three-yard line play on thirddown. On that play, Daniels took a read option going right, with no option to pass. He headed straight for the end zone, scoring his first NFL touchdown.

Afterwards, Daniels ran straight to his mom to give her the game ball.

“Obviously, she was very excited, and I was happy just to be able to get my first touchdown and just throw it to her,” Daniels explained. “So I know she’s happy. I got to

Despite a loss on Saturday, Aug. 10, the former Louisiana State University quarterback, 2023 Heisman Trophy winner, and 2024 NFL No. 2 overall draft pick impressed the franchise and fans in the preseason debut against the New York Jets.

fight her to get the ball back now. But yea, I know she’s excited.”

During Thursday’s practice before the preseason opener, Daniels met Jets quarterback Aaron Rodgers, earning some key advice ahead of the Regular Season. He said Rodgers told him “Don’t ride the wave, just stay the course, and everything will work out.”

Even though the Jets came out on top 20-17 against the Commanders, Daniels left the franchise and fans smiling, giving high hopes for the future.

“We're setting him up to play remarkably for a long time, not just to see if we can get him more playing time in preseason games,” Quinn told reporters after Saturday’s game.

WI

5Jayden Daniels practices during the Washington Commanders training camp. (Abdullah Konte/The Washington Informer)

5Jayden Daniels participates in pre-season workouts in May.

(WI File Photo/Abdullah Konte)

CAPTURE the moment

On Aug. 10, The Swaliga Foundation hosted its eighth annual #STEAMtheBlock Party at the Entertainment & Sports Arena in Southeast, D.C., an event to expose youth to the science, technology, engineering, arts, and mathematics (STEAM) fields. The event brought together youth, schools, local businesses and community organizations to engage in more than 30 STEAM stations, a panel moderated by Washington Informer Publisher Denise Rolark Barnes, and live music.

(Ja’Mon Jackson/The Washington Informer)

RELIGION

First Baptist Church of Highland Park Prioritizes Engaging Local

Youth

Highland Park Merges with First Baptist Church of Glenarden to Create Pre-K to 8th Grade

By Hamil Harris WI Contributing Writer

From youth and young adult ministries, to a recent merger with First Baptist Church of Glenarden to create a new school, the First Baptist Church of Highland Park is working to provide safe spaces to allow young people to learn about and praise God.

“We are trying to work internally as well as externally to help the young people in this community because the needs are great,” said the Rev. Henry P. Davis, pastor of the Baptist Church of Highland Park. “Our theme this year is ‘Level Up,’ because we don’t want people to be satisfied in your faith.

Highland Park is located in the middle of an inner Beltway community filled with apartment complexes and children. Davis said working with children, teens, and young adults is a big part of their ministry. This year, Highland Park will offer everything from math tutors, to school supplies,

book bags and even haircuts.

“We want to do everything we can to make sure these students are successful,” Davis told The Informer.

First Baptist Church of Highland Park has dozens of ministries to engage the community, such as the Rev. Altheria Barnette’s work as minister of Youth and Family, to the Rev. Angela Taylor’s efforts as minister of Missions and Outreach.

Shelia Dent, superintendent of the church’s Sunday School, said that they have programs ranging from children’s worship on Sunday mornings to the young adult ministry that takes place on Saturday nights.

“Church is just not 11 a.m. on Sunday morning and it's not just in the building,” said Dent whose daughter, Jordan “JD” Dent is leader of The Plug Young Adult Ministry Saturdays at 6:30 p.m.

“The Plug Young Adult Ministry is special because we create an environment for young adults to come as they are,” JD Dent told The In-

Notice of Live Birth for Karen Richardson

I, Karen LaTise Richardson Born on May 3, 1975, at Howard University Hospital in Washington D.C., to parents and daughter of Vernessa Dale Wallace-Scott and Randolph Eugene Scott Sr. Richardson I affirm that I am living, sound-minded individual, over 18 years old as of May 3, 1993.

former. “We have an open and safe space that allows young adults to establish and nurture their relationship with God, to ask questions about the things they’re reading about during their Bible study, and learn how to apply biblical principles to their everyday life.”

The ministry leader emphasized the programming provides young adults opportunities to praise God in ways that resonate with them. “The Plug also allows young adults to authentically praise and worship God whether that’s through song, dance, spoken word or spiritual events.”

SCHOOL MERGER CREATES MORE OPPORTUNITIES TO ENGAGE WITH YOUTH

The Highland Park church’s youth

ministry isn’t limited to weekends.

First Baptist Church of Highland Park and First Baptist Church of Glenarden have come together to create a new private elementary school for Pre-K 4 to 8th Grade students. The new school- Prince George’s Christian Academy- combines Shabach Academy and Highland Park Christian Academy on two campuses. Students grades Pre-K to 3rd will be at the First Baptist Ministry Center and the campus from grades 4th to 8th will be at Highland Park.

Davis told The Informer that collaborating with First Baptist Church of Glenarden Pastor John K. Jenkins is a way to build on the visions both churches had with their academic institutions.

“We are stronger together. It

is going to take the two of us to go to another level and create a college preparatory program to the 12th grade,” Davis said. “We needed each other. We want to develop premiere programs, but keep the focus on Christ and there is hunger out there.

First Baptist Church of Glenarden’s Pastor John K. Jenkins also emphasized the new academy will present more opportunities for youth Christian formation.

“We are one school,” Jenkins said in an interview. “We hope to add a grade a year. Our expectation is to work collaboratively to impact our children with the most excellent Christian education that they can receive.”

For more information about Prince George’s Christian Academy visit pgcacademy.org. WI

5First Baptist Church of Highland Park’s Pastor Henry P. Davis and First Baptist Church of Glenarden’s Pastor John K. Jenkins have collaborated to open Prince George’s Christian Academy. (Courtesy Photo, Prince George’s Christian Academy)

The word "encourage" means to give support, confidence or hope to someone. Let's take a look at the lyrics in the song "Encourage Yourself":

"Sometimes you have to encourage yourself/Sometimes you have to speak victory during the test/ And no matter how you feel/speak the word, and you will be healed/ Speak over yourself/Encourage yourself in the Lord."

Scripture tells us in the Book of Proverbs, chapter 26 verse 27: "Who so diggeth a pit shall fall therein: and he that rolleth a stone, it will return upon him." This message is for those who have gone through a lot this week. Some things happen to us, and we will remember that day for the rest of our lives.

When you are children of God, these things may happen to you, but Deuteronomy 32:35 says "Vengeance is Mine, and recompense; Their foot shall slip in due time; For the day of their calamity is at hand, And the things to come hasten upon them." Psalm 101:7 also says, "He that worketh deceit shall not dwell within my house: he that tells lies shall not tarry in my sight."

Let's look at the story of Joseph and his multi-colored coat, given

WITH LYNDIA GRANT

Encourage Yourself the religion corner

to him by his father Jacob. Joseph's brothers were so jealous of their father favoring Joseph that they put him in a pit and planned to kill him. They changed their minds and instead sold him for 20 pieces of silver to a caravan that was passing by.

In the end, Joseph became a royal priest, sitting in a position of power because of his ability to interpret dreams. Those same brothers who hated Joseph, the same ones who sold him, had to kneel before him in the end. Men from across the region bowed to Joseph as he provided badly needed food to all during the famine.

Look at how God works. His wonders are truly amazing. During our worst trials, as long as they don't stop us, we will come out on the other side better for making it.

Look, this is NOT an ideal situation, but each of us must keep our hands in the hands of our Savior, Jesus Christ the Lord! The Scriptures have proven to be correct. What's done in the dark will truly come to the light. A liar cannot and will not tarry, says the Scriptures!

In closing, continue to encourage yourself. We are all watching this campaign, as we support Kamala Harris for president of the United States, in this new political campaign since President Biden stepped aside. The pit has already been dug — expect the fall and ex-

pect the stone to come back at him who throws it.

This message is for each of us. Stay focused and keep encouraging yourself and watch Vice President Kamala Harris move into the White House as the president of the United States of America, the most powerful position in the world. You go, girl! Stay encouraged! WI

Scripture tells us in the Book of Proverbs, chapter 26 verse 27: "Who so diggeth a pit shall fall therein: and he that rolleth a stone, it will return upon him." This message is for those who have gone through a lot this week. Some things happen to us, and we will remember that day for the rest of our lives.

RELIGION

MCCOLLUM & ASSOCIATES, LLC

ADA, Age Discrimination, Benefits, Civil Rights, COBRA, Contracts, Deaf Law, Defamation, Disability Law, Discipline, Discrimination, FMLA, FLSA, FOIA, Family Responsibility, Harassment, HIPPA, OSHA, National Origin Discrimination, Non-Compete, Race Discrimination, Rehabilitation Act, Retaliation, Severance Agreements, Sexual Harassment, Torts, Whistleblowing, Wage-and-Hour, Wrongful Discharge

RELIGION

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

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

Rev Kevin A. O'Bryant Pastor

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.

Froffice@firstrising.org

www.firstrising.org “Changing Lives On Purpose “ The Rev. E. Bernard Anderson

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

Mt. Horeb Baptist Church

Rehoboth Baptist Church

First Rising Mt. Zion Baptist Church

Historic St. Mary’s Episcopal Church

Promised Land Baptist Church

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

2024 ADM 000464

Cheryl A. Van Buren Smith Decedent

James Larry Frazier, Esq. 918 Maryland Avenue, NE Washington, DC 20002

Attorney

NOTICE OF APPOINTMENT, NOTICE TO CREDITORS AND NOTICE TO UNKNOWN HEIRS

Stephanie Diane Jackson, whose address is 250 K Street, NE, #1006, Washington, DC 20002, was appointed Personal Representative of the estate of Cheryl A. Van Buren Smith who died on February 28, 2024 without a Will and will serve without Court supervision. All unknown heirs and heirs whose whereabouts are unknown shall enter their appearance in this proceeding. Objections to such appointment shall be filed with the Register of Wills, D.C., 515 5th Street, N.W., Building A, Third Floor Washington, D.C. 20001, on or before 2/1/2025. Claims against the decedent shall be presented to the undersigned with a copy to the Register of Wills or filed with the Register of Wills with a copy to the undersigned, on or before 2/1/2025, or be forever barred. Persons believed to be heirs or legatees of the decedent who do not receive a copy of this notice by mail within 25 days of its first publication shall so inform the Register of Wills, including name, address, and relationship.

Date of first publication: 8/1/2024

Stephanie Diane Jackson Personal Representative

TRUE TEST

Nicole Stevens Register of Wills Washington Informer

SUPERIOR COURT OF THE DISTRICT OF COLUMBIA

Probate Division Washington, D.C. 20001-2131

2024 ADM 000850

Victor A. Papp aka Victor Andrew Papp Decedent

Graner S. Ghevarghese

600 14th Street, NW, 5th Fl Washington, DC 20005 Attorney

NOTICE OF APPOINTMENT, NOTICE TO CREDITORS AND NOTICE TO UNKNOWN HEIRS

John Hofstadter, whose address is 5557 Sully Lake Drive, Centreville, Virginia 20120, was appointed Personal Representative of the estate of Victor A. Papp aka Victor Andrew Papp who died on November 13, 2023 without a Will and will serve without Court supervision. All unknown heirs and heirs whose whereabouts are unknown shall enter their appearance in this proceeding. Objections to such appointment shall be filed with the Register of Wills, D.C., 515 5th Street, N.W., Building A, Third Floor Washington, D.C. 20001, on or before 2/1/2025. Claims against the decedent shall be presented to the undersigned with a copy to the Register of Wills or filed with the Register of Wills with a copy to the undersigned, on or before 2/1/2025, or be forever barred. Persons believed to be heirs or legatees of the decedent who do not receive a copy of this notice by mail within 25 days of its first publication shall so inform the Register of Wills, including name, address, and relationship.

Date of first publication: 8/1/2024

John Hofstadter 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

2024 ADM 854

Bennie Myles Williams Decedent

E. Regine Francois Williams 9701 Apollo Drive Ste. 301 Largo MD, 20774 Attorney

NOTICE OF APPOINTMENT, NOTICE TO CREDITORS AND NOTICE TO UNKNOWN HEIRS

Edsel Guydon, whose address is 8280 Willow Oaks Corp., Dr., Ste. 600, Fairfax, VA, 22031, was appointed Personal Representative of the estate of Bennie Myles Williams who died on 3/13/2024 with a Will and will serve without Court supervision. All unknown heirs and heirs whose whereabouts are unknown shall enter their appearance in this proceeding. Objections to such appointment (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 2/1/2025. Claims against the decedent shall be presented to the undersigned with a copy to the Register of Wills or filed with the Register of Wills with a copy to the undersigned, on or before 2/1/2025, or be forever barred. Persons believed to be heirs or legatees of the decedent who do not receive a copy of this notice by mail within 25 days of its first publication shall so inform the Register of Wills, including name, address, and relationship.

Date of first publication: 8/1/2024

Edsel Guydon 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

2024 FEP 000081

October 15, 2023

Date of Death

Mary Ann Young Name of Decedent

NOTICE OF APPOINTMENT OF FOREIGN PERSONAL REPRESENTATIVE AND NOTICE TO CREDITORS

Joseph R. Proctor Jr. whose address is 3817 Crusader Dr., Hope Mills, NC 28348 was appointed personal representative of the estate of Mary Ann Young, deceased, by the Orphans Court for Prince Georges County, State of Maryland. Service of process may be made upon Donata Edwards, Esq. 1629 K Street NW, Suite 300, Washington, DC 20006 whose designation as District of Columbia agent has been filed with the Register of Wills, D.C. The decedent owned the following District of Columbia real property: 4725 First St., SW, #103. Claims against the decedent may be presented to the undersigned and filed with the Register of Wills of the District of Columbia, 515 5th Street, NW, Third Floor, Washington, D.C. 20001 within 6 months from the date of first publication of this notice.

Date of first publication: 8/1/2024

Joseph R. Proctor Jr. Personal Representative

Nicole Stevens Register of Wills Washington Informer

SUPERIOR COURT OF THE DISTRICT OF COLUMBIA

Probate Division Washington, D.C. 20001-2131

2024 ADM 000831

Eugena S. Bucknall aka Eugena Simms Bucknall Decedent

Samuel C. Hamilton, Esq. 8601 Georgia Ave. Suite 504 Silver Spring, MD 20910

Attorney

NOTICE OF APPOINTMENT, NOTICE TO CREDITORS AND NOTICE TO UNKNOWN HEIRS

Adassa Veronica Grant, whose address is 6904 Flagstaff St., Hyattsville, MD 20785, was appointed Personal Representative of the estate of Eugena S. Bucknall aka Eugena Simms Bucknall who died on December 6, 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 2/1/2025. Claims against the decedent shall be presented to the undersigned with a copy to the Register of Wills or filed with the Register of Wills with a copy to the undersigned, on or before 2/1/2025, or be forever barred. Persons believed to be heirs or legatees of the decedent who do not receive a copy of this notice by mail within 25 days of its first publication shall so inform the Register of Wills, including name, address, and relationship.

Date of first publication: 8/1/2024

Adassa Veronica Grant

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

2024 FEP 000083

March 18, 2004

Date of Death

Jessie T. Reede Name of Decedent

NOTICE OF APPOINTMENT OF FOREIGN PERSONAL REPRESENTATIVE AND NOTICE TO CREDITORS

James William Reede, Jr. whose address is 6008 Wynnewood Way, Sacramento, CA 95823 was appointed personal representative of the estate of Jessie T. Reede, deceased, by the Circuit Court for Cook County, State of Illinois, Probate Division. Service of process may be made upon Aimee D. Griffin, Esq., Life and Legacy Counselors, 5335 Wisconsin Ave., NW, Suite 440, Washington, DC 20015 whose designation as District of Columbia agent has been filed with the Register of Wills, D.C.

The decedent owned the following District of Columbia real property: 414 21st Street NE, Washington, DC 20002. Claims against the decedent may be presented to the undersigned and filed with the Register of Wills of the District of Columbia, 515 5th Street, NW, Third Floor, Washington, D.C. 20001 within 6 months from the date of first publication of this notice.

Date of first publication: 8/8/2024

James William Reede, Jr. Personal Representative

Nicole Stevens Register of Wills

Washington Informer

SUPERIOR COURT OF THE DISTRICT OF COLUMBIA

Probate Division Washington, D.C. 20001-2131

2024 ADM 000837

Mary Ann Gill

Decedent

Jeffrey K. Gordon, Esq. 5335 Wisconsin Ave., NW #400 Washington, DC 20015

Attorney

NOTICE OF APPOINTMENT, NOTICE TO CREDITORS AND NOTICE TO UNKNOWN HEIRS

Kala Shah, whose address is 15718 Allanwood Drive, Silver Spring, MD 20906, was appointed Personal Representative of the estate of Mary Ann Gill who died on June 17, 2024 with a Will and will serve without Court supervision. All unknown heirs and heirs whose whereabouts are unknown shall enter their appearance in this proceeding. Objections to such appointment (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 2/1/2025. Claims against the decedent shall be presented to the undersigned with a copy to the Register of Wills or filed with the Register of Wills with a copy to the undersigned, on or before 2/1/2025, or be forever barred. Persons believed to be heirs or legatees of the decedent who do not receive a copy of this notice by mail within 25 days of its first publication shall so inform the Register of Wills, including name, address, and relationship.

Date of first publication: 8/1/2025

Kala Shah 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

2024 ADM 000119

Deloris Davis Decedent

NOTICE OF APPOINTMENT, NOTICE TO CREDITORS AND NOTICE TO UNKNOWN HEIRS

J. Anthony Concino III, Esq., whose address is 5335 Wisconsin Avenue, NW, Suite 400, Washington, DC 20015, was appointed Personal Representative of the estate of Deloris Davis who died on May 24, 2023 without a Will. 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 2/8/2025. Claims against the decedent shall be presented to the undersigned with a copy to the Register of Wills or filed with the Register of Wills with a copy to the undersigned, on or before 2/8/2025, or be forever barred. Persons believed to be heirs or legatees of the decedent who do not receive a copy of this notice by mail within 25 days of its first publication shall so inform the Register of Wills, including name, address, and relationship.

Date of first publication: 8/8/2024

J. Anthony Concino III, Esq. 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

2024 ADM 000838

Audrey V. Tate Decedent

NOTICE OF APPOINTMENT, NOTICE TO CREDITORS AND NOTICE TO UNKNOWN HEIRS

Cynthia L. Reavis, whose address is 905 6 Street, SW 903B, Washington, DC 20024, was appointed Personal Representative of the estate of Audrey V. Tate who died on March 24, 2018 without a Will and will serve without Court supervision. All unknown heirs and heirs whose whereabouts are unknown shall enter their appearance in this proceeding. Objections to such appointment shall be filed with the Register of Wills, D.C., 515 5th Street, N.W., Building A, Third Floor Washington, D.C. 20001, on or before 2/1/2025. Claims against the decedent shall be presented to the undersigned with a copy to the Register of Wills or filed with the Register of Wills with a copy to the undersigned, on or before 2/1/2025, or be forever barred. Persons believed to be heirs or legatees of the decedent who do not receive a copy of this notice by mail within 25 days of its first publication shall so inform the Register of Wills, including name, address, and relationship.

Date of first publication: 8/1/2024

Cynthia L. Reavis

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

2024 ADM 874

Martha McNeill Decedent

Howard J. Walsh, Esq. 7101 Wisconsin Ave., Suite 1200 Bethesda, MD 20815

Attorney

NOTICE OF APPOINTMENT, NOTICE TO CREDITORS AND NOTICE TO UNKNOWN HEIRS

Conor Randolph Scott, whose address is 2543 Alberta Ave., SW Roanoke VA 24015, was appointed Personal Representative of the estate of Martha L. McNeill who died on June 21st, 2024 with a Will and will serve without Court supervision. All unknown heirs and heirs whose whereabouts are unknown shall enter their appearance in this proceeding. Objections to such appointment (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 2/8/2025. Claims against the decedent shall be presented to the undersigned with a copy to the Register of Wills or filed with the Register of Wills with a copy to the undersigned, on or before 2/8/2025, or be forever barred. Persons believed to be heirs or legatees of the decedent who do not receive a copy of this notice by mail within 25 days of its first publication shall so inform the Register of Wills, including name, address, and relationship.

Date of first publication: 8/8/2024

Conor Randolph Scott Personal Representative

TRUE TEST COPY

Nicole Stevens Register of Wills

Washington Informer

LEGAL NOTICES LEGAL NOTICES LEGAL NOTICES

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

2024 ADM 000888

Priscilla L. Turner Decedent

Keonna Carter, Esq.

205 R Street, NW, Unit #B Washington, DC 20001 Attorney

NOTICE OF APPOINTMENT, NOTICE TO CREDITORS AND NOTICE TO UNKNOWN HEIRS

Rashad Turner, whose address is 7800 Contee Road, Apt. 424, Laurel, MD 20707, was appointed Personal Representative of the estate of Priscilla L. Turner who died on April 10, 2024 without a Will and will serve without Court supervision. All unknown heirs and heirs whose whereabouts are unknown shall enter their appearance in this proceeding. Objections to such appointment shall be filed with the Register of Wills, D.C., 515 5th Street, N.W., Building A, Third Floor Washington, D.C. 20001, on or before 2/8/2025. Claims against the decedent shall be presented to the undersigned with a copy to the Register of Wills or filed with the Register of Wills with a copy to the undersigned, on or before 2/8/2025, or be forever barred. Persons believed to be heirs or legatees of the decedent who do not receive a copy of this notice by mail within 25 days of its first publication shall so inform the Register of Wills, including name, address, and relationship.

Date of first publication:

8/8/2024

Rashad Turner Personal Representative

TRUE

Nicole Stevens Register of Wills

Washington Informer

SUPERIOR COURT OF THE DISTRICT OF COLUMBIA

Probate Division Washington, D.C. 20001-2131

2024 ADM 000864

Mary Louise Smith Decedent

NOTICE OF APPOINTMENT, NOTICE TO CREDITORS AND NOTICE TO UNKNOWN HEIRS

Felicia Renee Allen, whose address is 638 Gallatin Street NW, Washington, DC 20011, was appointed Personal Representative of the estate of Mary Louise Smith who died on May 24, 2024 without a Will and will serve without Court supervision. All unknown heirs and heirs whose whereabouts are unknown shall enter their appearance in this proceeding. Objections to such appointment shall be filed with the Register of Wills, D.C., 515 5th Street, N.W., Building A, Third Floor Washington, D.C. 20001, on or before 2/8/2025. Claims against the decedent shall be presented to the undersigned with a copy to the Register of Wills or filed with the Register of Wills with a copy to the undersigned, on or before 2/8/2025, or be forever barred.

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

Date of first publication:

8/8/2024

Felicia Renee Allen 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

2024 ADM 000890

Robert Lee Davis, III Decedent

James Larry Frazier, Esq. 918 Maryland Ave. NE Washington, DC 20002 Attorney

NOTICE OF APPOINTMENT, NOTICE TO CREDITORS AND NOTICE TO UNKNOWN HEIRS

Sherry Davis Young, whose address is 120 Kaylee Court, Fayetteville, GA 30214, was appointed Personal Representative of the estate of Robert Lee Davis, III who died on June 25, 2024 without a Will and will serve without Court supervision. All unknown heirs and heirs whose whereabouts are unknown shall enter their appearance in this proceeding. Objections to such appointment shall be filed with the Register of Wills, D.C., 515 5th Street, N.W., Building A, Third Floor Washington, D.C. 20001, on or before 2/8/2025. Claims against the decedent shall be presented to the undersigned with a copy to the Register of Wills or filed with the Register of Wills with a copy to the undersigned, on or before 2/8/2025, or be forever barred. Persons believed to be heirs or legatees of the decedent who do not receive a copy of this notice by mail within 25 days of its first publication shall so inform the Register of Wills, including name, address, and relationship.

Date of first publication: 8/8/2024

Sherry Davis Young 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

2024 ADM 865

Doris Mae Little Decedent

NOTICE OF APPOINTMENT, NOTICE TO CREDITORS AND NOTICE TO UNKNOWN HEIRS

Angela L. Barnes, whose address is 7405 Llminster Avenue, Fort Washington, MD 20744, was appointed Personal Representative of the estate of Doris Mae Little who died on May 13, 2024 with a Will and will serve without Court supervision. All unknown heirs and heirs whose whereabouts are unknown shall enter their appearance in this proceeding. Objections to such appointment (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 2/8/2025. Claims against the decedent shall be presented to the undersigned with a copy to the Register of Wills or filed with the Register of Wills with a copy to the undersigned, on or before 2/8/2025, or be forever barred. Persons believed to be heirs or legatees of the decedent who do not receive a copy of this notice by mail within 25 days of its first publication shall so inform the Register of Wills, including name, address, and relationship.

Date of first publication: 8/8/2024

Angela L. Barnes 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

2024 ADM 000873

Diane C. McCain Decedent

NOTICE OF APPOINTMENT, NOTICE TO CREDITORS AND NOTICE TO UNKNOWN HEIRS

Mark S. McCain, whose address is 3623 22nd Street, NE, Washington, DC 20018, was appointed Personal Representative of the estate of Diane C. McCain who died on 5/31/2024 without a Will and will serve without Court supervision. All unknown heirs and heirs whose whereabouts are unknown shall enter their appearance in this proceeding. Objections to such appointment shall be filed with the Register of Wills, D.C., 515 5th Street, N.W., Building A, Third Floor Washington, D.C. 20001, on or before 2/8/2025. Claims against the decedent shall be presented to the undersigned with a copy to the Register of Wills or filed with the Register of Wills with a copy to the undersigned, on or before 2/8/2025, or be forever barred. Persons believed to be heirs or legatees of the decedent who do not receive a copy of this notice by mail within 25 days of its first publication shall so inform the Register of Wills, including name, address, and relationship.

Date of first publication: 8/8/2024

Mark S. McCain

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

2024 ADM 000436

Fannie Mae Searles aka F. M. Searles Decedent

NOTICE OF APPOINTMENT, NOTICE TO CREDITORS AND NOTICE TO UNKNOWN HEIRS

Marcia Searles Miller and George U. Searles Jr., whose address is 7204 Cimmaron Ash Ct., Clinton, MD 20735 & 1511 41st SE, Washington, DC 20020, were appointed Personal Representatives of the estate of Fannie Mae Searles aka F. M. Searles who died on July 12, 2023 without a Will and will serve without Court supervision. All unknown heirs and heirs whose whereabouts are unknown shall enter their appearance in this proceeding. Objections to such appointment (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 2/8/2025. Claims against the decedent shall be presented to the undersigned with a copy to the Register of Wills or filed with the Register of Wills with a copy to the undersigned, on or before 2/8/2025, or be forever barred. Persons believed to be heirs or legatees of the decedent who do not receive a copy of this notice by mail within 25 days of its first publication shall so inform the Register of Wills, including name, address, and relationship.

Date of first publication: 8/8/2024

Marcia Searles Miller George U. Searles Jr. 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

2024 FEP 89

March 23, 2021

Date of Death

Tomoe Dunning

Name of Decedent

NOTICE OF APPOINTMENT OF FOREIGN PERSONAL REPRESENTATIVE AND NOTICE TO CREDITORS

Robert Leslie Dunning whose address is 5145 Roberts Rd., Colleyville, TX 76034 was appointed personal representative of the estate of Tomoe Dunning, deceased, by the Superior Court for Snohomish County, State of Washington, on July 9, 2021. Service of process may be made upon Robin Laupheimer, 1920 L Street, NW, Suite 835, Washington, DC 20036 whose designation as District of Columbia agent has been filed with the Register of Wills, D.C. Decedent has cause of action in DC.

The decedent owned District of Columbia personal property. Claims against the decedent may be presented to the undersigned and filed with the Register of Wills of the District of Columbia, 515 5th Street, NW, Third Floor, Washington, D.C. 20001 within 6 months from the date of first publication of this notice.

Date of first publication: 8/8/2024

Robert Leslie Dunning Personal Representative Nicole Stevens Register of Wills Washington Informer

SUPERIOR COURT OF THE DISTRICT OF COLUMBIA PROBATE DIVISION Washington, D.C. 20001-2131

2024 FEP 000088

11/11/2022

Date of Death

Lillian Mae McCloud Name of Decedent

NOTICE OF APPOINTMENT OF FOREIGN PERSONAL REPRESENTATIVE AND NOTICE TO CREDITORS

Wilhelmina Adesoye whose address is 7108 Kingston Drive, Temple Hills, MD 20748 was appointed personal representative of the estate of Lillian Mae McCloud, deceased, by the Orphans Court for Prince George County, State of Maryland, on February 28, 2024.

Service of process may be made upon Beza Mesfin, 4560 3rd Street, SE #203, Washington, DC 20032 whose designation as District of Columbia agent has been filed with the Register of Wills, D.C.

The decedent owned District of Columbia personal property. Claims against the decedent may be presented to the undersigned and filed with the Register of Wills of the District of Columbia, 515 5th Street, NW, Third Floor, Washington, D.C. 20001 within 6 months from the date of first publication of this notice.

Date of first publication: 8/8/2024

Wilhelmina Adesoye Personal Representative

Nicole Stevens Register of Wills

Washington Informer

SUPERIOR COURT OF THE DISTRICT OF COLUMBIA PROBATE DIVISION Washington, D.C. 20001-2131

2024 FEP 000042

November 16, 2021

Date of Death

Teri Marie Johnson Name of Decedent

NOTICE OF APPOINTMENT OF FOREIGN PERSONAL REPRESENTATIVE AND NOTICE TO CREDITORS

Dennis Eugene Johnson whose address is 2083 W. Maple Ave., Flint, MI 48507 was appointed personal representative of the estate of Teri Marie Johnson, deceased, by the Probate Court for Genesee County, State of Maryland, on December 18, 2023.

Service of process may be made upon Robin Laupheimer 1920 L Street, NW, Suite 835, Washington, DC 20036 whose designation as District of Columbia agent has been filed with the Register of Wills, D.C. Decedent has cause of action in DC.

The decedent owned District of Columbia personal property. Claims against the decedent may be presented to the undersigned and filed with the Register of Wills of the District of Columbia, 515 5th Street, NW, Third Floor, Washington, D.C. 20001 within 6 months from the date of first publication of this notice.

Date of first publication: 8/8/2024

Dennis Eugene Johnson Personal Representative

Nicole Stevens Register of Wills

Washington Informer

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

2023 ADM 000703

Karen Ann Jameson Decedent

NOTICE OF APPOINTMENT, NOTICE TO CREDITORS AND NOTICE TO UNKNOWN HEIRS

Jeffrey K. Gordon, Esq., whose address is 5335 Wisconsin Avenue, NW, #400, Washington, DC 20015, was appointed Personal Representative of the estate of Karen Ann Jameson who died on July 8, 2021 without a Will and will serve without Court supervision. All unknown heirs and heirs whose whereabouts are unknown shall enter their appearance in this proceeding. Objections to such appointment (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 2/8/2025. Claims against the decedent shall be presented to the undersigned with a copy to the Register of Wills or filed with the Register of Wills with a copy to the undersigned, on or before 2/8/2025, or be forever barred. Persons believed to be heirs or legatees of the decedent who do not receive a copy of this notice by mail within 25 days of its first publication shall so inform the Register of Wills, including name, address, and relationship.

Date of first publication: 8/8/2024

Jeffrey K. Gordon, Esq. 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

2021 ADM 001378

Estate of Dorothy M. Sims aka Dorothy Mae Sims

NOTICE OF STANDARD PROBATE

Notice is hereby given that a petition has been filed in this Court by Rodney L. Sims and Stacie D. Sims for standard probate, including the appointment of one or more personal representatives. Unless a responsive pleading in the form of a complaint or an objection in accordance with Superior Court Probate Division Rule 407 is filed in this Court within 30 days from the date of first publication of this notice, the Court may take the action hereinafter set forth.

In the absence of a will or proof satisfactory to the Court of due execution, enter an order determining that the decedent died intestate appoint an unsupervised personal representative

Date of first publication: August 8, 2024

Sharon Legall, Esq. 1325 G Street, NW, Suite 500 Washington, DC 20005

Petitioner/Attorney:

of Wills Washington Informer

SUPERIOR COURT OF THE DISTRICT OF COLUMBIA PROBATE DIVISION Washington, D.C. 20001-2131

2024 FEP 84

June 4, 2017

Date of Death

Eldridge T. Freeman, Jr Name of Decedent

NOTICE OF APPOINTMENT OF FOREIGN PERSONAL REPRESENTATIVE AND NOTICE TO CREDITORS

Joyce Freeman-Baker whose address is 400 E. Randolph Street, Chicago, IL 60601 was appointed personal representative of the estate of Eldridge T. Freeman, Jr., deceased, by the Circuit Court for Cook County, State of Illinois, Probate Division, on June 5, 2022.

Service of process may be made upon Aimee D. Griffin, Esq., Life and Legacy Counselors, 5335 Wisconsin Ave., NW, Suite 440, Washington, DC 20015 whose designation as District of Columbia agent has been filed with the Register of Wills, D.C. The decedent owned the following District of Columbia real property: 414 21st Street, NE, Washington, DC 20002. Claims against the decedent may be presented to the undersigned and filed with the Register of Wills of the District of Columbia, 515 5th Street, NW, Third Floor, Washington, D.C. 20001 within 6 months from the date of first publication of this notice.

Date of first publication: 8/8/2024

Joyce Freeman-Baker Personal Representative

Nicole Stevens Register of Wills

Washington Informer

SUPERIOR COURT OF THE DISTRICT OF COLUMBIA

PROBATE DIVISION

Washington, D.C. 20001-2131

2024 FEP 000085

9/22/2011

Date of Death

Janice Meadows Freeman

Name of Decedent

NOTICE OF APPOINTMENT OF FOREIGN PERSONAL REPRESENTATIVE AND NOTICE TO CREDITORS

Eldridge Freeman, III whose address is 15372 Gatehouse Terrace, Woodbridge, VA 22191 was appointed personal representative of the estate of Janice Meadows Freeman, deceased, by the Circuit Court for Cook County, State of Illinois Probate Division, on 2/29/2024.

Service of process may be made upon Aimee D. Griffin, Esq., Life and Legacy Counselors, 5335 Wisconsin Ave., NW, Suite 440, Washington, DC 20015 whose designation as District of Columbia agent has been filed with the Register of Wills, D.C.

The decedent owned the following District of Columbia real property

414 21st Street, NE, Washington, DC 20015. Claims against the decedent may be presented to the undersigned and filed with the Register of Wills of the District of Columbia, 515 5th Street, NW, Third Floor, Washington, D.C. 20001 within 6 months from the date of first publication of this notice.

Date of first publication: 8/8/2024

Eldridge Freeman, III Personal Representative Nicole Stevens Register of Wills Washington Informer

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

2024 ADM 000844

Charles Earl Hall Decedent

NOTICE OF APPOINTMENT, NOTICE TO CREDITORS AND NOTICE TO UNKNOWN HEIRS

Judy G. Hall, whose address is 518 M Street, NE, Washington, DC 20002, was appointed Personal Representative of the estate of Charles Earl Hall who died on February 6, 2023 without a Will and will serve without Court supervision. All unknown heirs and heirs whose whereabouts are unknown shall enter their appearance in this proceeding. Objections to such appointment shall be filed with the Register of Wills, D.C., 515 5th Street, N.W., Building A, Third Floor Washington, D.C. 20001, on or before 2/8/2025. Claims against the decedent shall be presented to the undersigned with a copy to the Register of Wills or filed with the Register of Wills with a copy to the undersigned, on or before 2/8/2025, or be forever barred. Persons believed to be heirs or legatees of the decedent who do not receive a copy of this notice by mail within 25 days of its first publication shall so inform the Register of Wills, including name, address, and relationship.

Date of first publication: 8/8/2024

Judy G. Hall

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

2024 ADM 000849

Rosemary Eory aka Rosemary J. Eory

Decedent

Matthew F. Shannon, Esq. 1420 N Street, NW #203 Washington, DC 20005

Attorney

NOTICE OF APPOINTMENT, NOTICE TO CREDITORS AND NOTICE TO UNKNOWN HEIRS

Matthew F. Shannon, whose address is 1420 N Street, NW, #203, Washington, DC 20005, was appointed Personal Representative of the estate of Rosemary Eory aka Rosemary J. Eory who died on June 18, 2024 with a Will and will serve without Court supervision. All unknown heirs and heirs whose whereabouts are unknown shall enter their appearance in this proceeding. Objections to such appointment (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 2/8/2025. Claims against the decedent shall be presented to the undersigned with a copy to the Register of Wills or filed with the Register of Wills with a copy to the undersigned, on or before 2/8/2025, or be forever barred. Persons believed to be heirs or legatees of the decedent who do not receive a copy of this notice by mail within 25 days of its first publication shall so inform the Register of Wills, including name, address, and relationship.

Date of first publication: 8/8/2024

Matthew F. Shannon 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

2024 FEP 000087

2/4/2022

Date of Death

David Eugene Rivers Name of Decedent

NOTICE OF APPOINTMENT OF FOREIGN PERSONAL REPRESENTATIVE AND NOTICE TO CREDITORS

Sandra T. Middleton whose address 110 Oak Knoll, Fayetteville, GA 30214 was appointed personal representative of the estate of David Eugene Rivers aka David E. Rivers, deceased, by the Probate Court for Charleston County, State of South Carolina, on June 2, 2022.

Service of process may be made upon Brenda K. Pennington, The Pennington Firm, 300 E. Lombard Street, Ste. 840, Baltimore, MD 21202 whose designation as District of Columbia agent has been filed with the Register of Wills, D.C. The decedent owned the following District of Columbia real property: 1406 Carrollsburg Place, SW, Washington, DC 20024. Claims against the decedent may be presented to the undersigned and filed with the Register of Wills of the District of Columbia, 515 5th Street, NW, Third Floor, Washington, D.C. 20001 within 6 months from the date of first publication of this notice.

Date of first publication: 8/8/2024

Sandra T. Middleton Personal Representative

Nicole Stevens Register of Wills

Washington Informer

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

2024 ADM 000424

Walter Thomas Phillips aka Walter T. Phillips Decedent

Donald Marlais, Esq. 411 10th Street, NE Washington, DC 20002 Attorney

NOTICE OF APPOINTMENT, NOTICE TO CREDITORS AND NOTICE TO UNKNOWN HEIRS

Paula C. Hawkins, whose address is 7903 Shirley Court, Clinton, MD 20735, was appointed Personal Representative of the estate of Walter Thomas Phillips aka Walter T. Phillips who died on April 7, 2007 without a Will and will serve without Court supervision. All unknown heirs and heirs whose whereabouts are unknown shall enter their appearance in this proceeding. Objections to such appointment shall be filed with the Register of Wills, D.C., 515 5th Street, N.W., Building A, Third Floor Washington, D.C. 20001, on or before 2/8/2025. Claims against the decedent shall be presented to the undersigned with a copy to the Register of Wills or filed with the Register of Wills with a copy to the undersigned, on or before 2/8/2025, or be forever barred. Persons believed to be heirs or legatees of the decedent who do not receive a copy of this notice by mail within 25 days of its first publication shall so inform the Register of Wills, including name, address, and relationship.

Date of first publication: 8/8/2024

Paula C. Hawkins 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

2024 ADM 000424

Walter Thomas Phillips aka Walter T. Phillips Decedent

Donald Marlais, Esq. 411 10th Street, NE Washington, DC 20002 Attorney

NOTICE OF APPOINTMENT, NOTICE TO CREDITORS AND NOTICE TO UNKNOWN HEIRS

Paula C. Hawkins, whose address is 7903 Shirley Court, Clinton, MD 20735, was appointed Personal Representative of the estate of Walter Thomas Phillips aka Walter T. Phillips who died on April 7, 2007 without a Will and will serve without Court supervision. All unknown heirs and heirs whose whereabouts are unknown shall enter their appearance in this proceeding. Objections to such appointment shall be filed with the Register of Wills, D.C., 515 5th Street, N.W., Building A, Third Floor Washington, D.C. 20001, on or before 2/8/2025. Claims against the decedent shall be presented to the undersigned with a copy to the Register of Wills or filed with the Register of Wills with a copy to the undersigned, on or before 2/8/2025, or be forever barred. Persons believed to be heirs or legatees of the decedent who do not receive a copy of this notice by mail within 25 days of its first publication shall so inform the Register of Wills, including name, address, and relationship.

Date of first publication: 8/8/2024

Paula C. Hawkins 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

2024 ADM 843

Frederick N. Lawson Sr. Decedent

NOTICE OF APPOINTMENT, NOTICE TO CREDITORS AND NOTICE TO UNKNOWN HEIRS

Levana Lawson, whose address is 710 49th Place, NE, Washington, DC 20019, was appointed Personal Representative of the estate of Frederick N. Lawson Sr. who died on 1/5/2024 without a Will and will serve without Court supervision. All unknown heirs and heirs whose whereabouts are unknown shall enter their appearance in this proceeding. Objections to such appointment (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 2/8/2025. Claims against the decedent shall be presented to the undersigned with a copy to the Register of Wills or filed with the Register of Wills with a copy to the undersigned, on or before 2/8/2025, or be forever barred. Persons believed to be heirs or legatees of the decedent who do not receive a copy of this notice by mail within 25 days of its first publication shall so inform the Register of Wills, including name, address, and relationship.

Date of first publication: 8/8/2024

Levana Lawson

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

2023 ADM 000477

Estate of E. N Ade aka Esau N. Ade aka Esau Nji Ade

NOTICE OF STANDARD PROBATE

Notice is hereby given that a petition has been filed in this Court by Roseline Oniya for standard probate, including the appointment of one or more personal representatives. Unless a responsive pleading in the form of a complaint or an objection in accordance with Superior Court Probate Division Rule 407 is filed in this Court within 30 days from the date of first publication of this notice, the Court may take the action hereinafter set forth.

Order any interested person to show cause why the provisions of the lost or destroyed will dated June 12, 2013 should not be admitted to probate as expressed in petition Appoint an unsupervised personal representative

Date of first publication: 8/15/2024

Sharon Legall 1325 G Street, NW Suite 500 Washington, NW 20005

Petitioner/Attorney:

TRUE TEST COPY

Nicole Stevens Register of Wills

Washington Informer

LEGAL NOTICES LEGAL NOTICES

SUPERIOR COURT OF THE DISTRICT OF COLUMBIA

PROBATE DIVISION

Washington, D.C. 20001-2131

2024 FEP 000092

2/26/2021

Date of Death

Mary Smith Harrell Name of Decedent

NOTICE OF APPOINTMENT OF FOREIGN PERSONAL REPRESENTATIVE AND NOTICE TO CREDITORS

Davie E. Smith Jr. whose address is 1332 Randolph St., Washington, DC 20011 was appointed personal representative of the estate of Mary Smith Harrell, deceased, by the Register of Will Court for Prince George’s County, State of Maryland, on March 7, 2024.

Service of process may be made upon Davie E. Smith Jr., 1332 Randolph St., NW Washington, DC 20011 whose designation as District of Columbia agent has been filed with the Register of Wills, D.C.

The decedent owned the following District of Columbia real property: 4514 Texas Ave., SE, Washington, DC 20019. Claims against the decedent may be presented to the undersigned and filed with the Register of Wills of the District of Columbia, 515 5th Street, NW, Third Floor, Washington, D.C. 20001 within 6 months from the date of first publication of this notice.

Date of first publication: 8/15/2024

Davie E. Smith Jr. Personal Representative

Nicole Stevens Register of Wills Washington Informer

SUPERIOR COURT OF THE DISTRICT OF COLUMBIA

Probate Division Washington, D.C. 20001-2131

2024 ADM 000866

Remona Montgomery aka Remona L. Montgomery Decedent

NOTICE OF APPOINTMENT, NOTICE TO CREDITORS AND NOTICE TO UNKNOWN HEIRS

Sherrone Lowery, Shereece Lowery, whose addresses are 1731 Carriage Ct., Severn, MD 21144 & 1824 Village Square CT, Severn, MD 21144, were appointed Personal Representatives of the estate of Remona Montgomery aka Remona L. Montgomery who died on September 5, 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 2/15/2025. Claims against the decedent shall be presented to the undersigned with a copy to the Register of Wills or filed with the Register of Wills with a copy to the undersigned, on or before 2/15/2025, or be forever barred. Persons believed to be heirs or legatees of the decedent who do not receive a copy of this notice by mail within 25 days of its first publication shall so inform the Register of Wills, including name, address, and relationship.

SUPERIOR COURT OF THE DISTRICT OF COLUMBIA

Probate Division Washington, D.C. 20001-2131

2024 ADM 000908

Jaeiza Harmal Decedent

Charles F. Walton

10905 Fort Washington Road

Suite 201 Fort Washington, MD 20744

Attorney

NOTICE OF APPOINTMENT, NOTICE TO CREDITORS AND NOTICE TO UNKNOWN HEIRS

Sandra Bond, whose address is 1522 Mateer Place Court, Missouri City, Texas 77459, was appointed Personal Representative of the estate of Jaeza Harmal who died on December 3, 2023 without a Will and will serve without Court supervision. All unknown heirs and heirs whose whereabouts are unknown shall enter their appearance in this proceeding. Objections to such appointment shall be filed with the Register of Wills, D.C., 515 5th Street, N.W., Building A, Third Floor Washington, D.C. 20001, on or before 2/15/2025. Claims against the decedent shall be presented to the undersigned with a copy to the Register of Wills or filed with the Register of Wills with a copy to the undersigned, on or before 2/15/2025, or be forever barred. Persons believed to be heirs or legatees of the decedent who do not receive a copy of this notice by mail within 25 days of its first publication shall so inform the Register of Wills, including name, address, and relationship.

Date of first publication: 8/15/2024

Sandra Bond Personal Representative

Nicole Stevens Register of Wills

Washington Informer

BUSINESS

BRIEFS from Page 14

predecessor, Marcia Fudge, in supporting family-friendly housing programs and improving such initiatives as housing counseling services.

“Things like when interest rates went up, it was our Vice President [Kamala Harris] who announced cuts in HUD’s mortgage fees … cuts that today have netted over $800 million in savings for homeowners,” Todman said. “We got smart about how we looked at student loan debt and making changes to our process so that for someone who is becoming a homeowner for the first time, we are considering how they’ve paid their rent as part of our evaluation.”

Todman called NAREB President Courtney Johnson Rose an “extraordinary leader.”

“I met her for the first time last year, and she is rocking and rolling,” she said. “So proud of her work.”

Todman also commended NAREB Executive Director Renee Wilson.

“For decades you have helped generations of Black people restore their faith in the American dream,” she said. “You’ve helped them build and rebuild wealth through home-

BROTHERS from Page 26

and the ability to pursue esports in college and beyond.

“They provide structure, a league, and matchmaking. They help set up the events and have provided resources to help the gaming community succeed,” said James.

ownership and retain hope that our children and grandchildren can have the bright and successful future that they deserve. Your commitment to pursuing democracy in housing has endured despite the obstacles, redlining and discrimination, predatory lending.”

During the convention, NAREB hosted a series of comprehensive panels, sessions, and workshops providing its members, known as Realtists, with data, counsel, and information that will better prepare them to assist consumers, particularly Black families, and individuals, with selling and buying homes, and building Black wealth, or instance.

tools they need to work with Black consumers to increase Black homeownership,” Rose said. “Increasing homeownership and closing the racial wealth gap is essential for achieving true racial equality in America.”

“Our convention arms our Realtists with the knowledge and

Esports gives students the opportunity to gain skills you would get playing other sports; teamwork, being accountable, consistency, and being calm under pressure.

“What we want here at Eastern is for students to gain skills and have as many adult connections as possible so there is a smaller

chance of slipping through the cracks. It brings another person in their life that is asking about their grades and keeping them on the right track.” emphasized James.

ESPORTS A PATH TO SUCCESS BEYOND HIGH SCHOOL

For the Frost brothers, esports has been a path to valuable lessons and a gateway to further opportunities beyond high school.

“Playing video games is more than just playing a game, there are skills like problem-solving, strategizing and marketing that they can take into the real world. There are colleges that will pay for your kids to go to school to play esports just like basketball or football.”

Taylor’s goal is to win another championship and potentially play for an esports program in college.

Tyler originally wanted something to do after school other than physical sports but now, he thinks this may be a path for him down the road.

“I would like it [esports] to be a career, I can see it being a big part of my future.”

WI

5Acting HUD Secretary Adrianne Todman delivered the keynote address at the National Association of Real Estate Brokers conference. (Courtesy Photo/Adrianne Todman, X)

FROST

5 Taylor Frost (left) and Tyler Frost (right) stand with their championship hardware. (Demarco Rush/The Washington Informer)

CLASSIFIEDS

Reader Advisory: The National Trade Association we belong to has purchased the following classifieds. Determining the value of their service or product is advised by this publication. In order to avoid misunderstandings, some advertisers do not offer employment but rather supply the readers with manuals, directories and other materials designed to help their clients establish mail order selling and other businesses at home. Under NO circumstance should you send any money in advance or give the client your checking, license ID, or credit card numbers. Also beware of ads that claim to guarantee loans regardless of credit and note that if a credit repair company does business only over the phone it s illegal to request any money before delivering its service. All funds are based in US dollars. 800 numbers may or may not reach Canada.

MEDIABIDS MISCELLANEOUS

Become a Published Author. We want to Read Your Book! Dorrance Publishing-Trusted by Authors Since 1920 Book manuscript submissions are currently being reviewed. Comprehensive Services: Consultation, Production, Promotion and Distribution Call for Your Free Author`s Guide 1-877420-7280 or visit http://dorranceinfo.com/ informer

Two great new offers from AT&T Wireless! Ask how to get the new iPhone 11 or Next Generation Samsung Galaxy S10e ON US with AT&T's Buy one, Give One offer. While supplies last! CALL 1-877-370-2155

Switch to DISH and get up to a $300 gift card! Plus get the Multisport pack included for a limited time! Hurry, call for details: 1-855402-3370

SAVE 67% PLUS 4 FREE BURGERS - The Favorite Feast - ONLY $49.99.    ORDER Today 1-888-318-1190 Use Code 48643VFW or www.OmahaSteaks.com/ ffmb93

Do you know your Testosterone Levels? Call 888-692-5146 and ask about our test kits and get a FREE Trial of Progene All-Natural Testosterone Supplement

Diabetes/Cholesterol/Weight Loss Bergamonte, a Natural Product for Cholesterol, Blood Sugar and weight. Physician recommended, backed by Human Clinical Studies with amazing results. Call today and save 15 percent off your first bottle! 866-640-5982

ATTENTION DIABETICS with Medicare. Get a FREE talking meter and diabetic testing supplies at NO COST, plus FREE home delivery! Best of all, this meter eliminates painful finger pricking! Call 888-421-1874

READERS & MUSIC LOVERS. 100 Greatest Novels (audio books) ONLY $99.00 (plus s h.) Includes MP3 Player & Accessories. BONUS: 50 Classical Music Works & Money Back Guarantee. Call Today! 1-866-680-1822

Any laptop repaired just $79. Macs too. REALLY! FREE Fedex shipping! $69 extra for screen or motherboard replacement. CALL Authorized Laptop Repair Specialists 1-866437-6184

Ever Consider a Reverse Mortgage? At least 62 years old? Stay in your home & Increase cash flow! Safe & Effective! Call Now for your FREE DVD! Call Now 888-420-4716

READERS & MUSIC LOVERS. 100 Greatest Novels (audio books) ONLY $99.00 (plus s h.)

Includes MP3 Player & Accessories. BONUS: 50 Classical Music Works & Money Back

CLASSIFIEDS

Guarantee. Call Today! 1-866-680-1822

Personalized holiday gifts for Everyone on your list! Save 20 percent off qualifying products from Personal Creations! To redeem this offer, visit www.PersonalCreations.com/ Beauty or Call 1-888-732-0679

Diabetes/Cholesterol/Weight Loss Natural Product for Cholesterol, Blood Sugar and weight. Physician recommended, backed by Human Clinical Studies with fast acting results within 30 days. Call to hear about our special offer 866-640-5982

ATTENTION DIABETICS with Medicare. Get a FREE Talking Meter and diabetic testing supplies at NO COST, plus FREE home delivery! Best of all, this meter eliminates painful finger pricking! Call 888-421-1874

SOCIAL SECURITY DISABILITY BENEFITS. You WIN or Pay Us Nothing. Contact Disability Group, Inc. Today! BBB Accredited. Call For Your FREE Book & Consultation. 888-6495110

Attention Joint & Muscle Pain Sufferers: Clinically proven all-natural supplement helps reduce pain and enhance mobility. Call 888-760-5952 to try Hydraflexin RISK-FREE for 90 days.

HEAT YOUR HOME FOR 5¢ AN HOUR! Portable infrared iHeater heats 1000 sq. ft. Slashes your heating bills by 50%.  FREE Shipping too! Use claim code 6239 WAS $499 NOW $279 Call 1-866-784-5182

ACP CLASSIFIED NETWORK

AUTOS WANTED

Donate Your Car to Veterans Today! Help and Support our Veterans. Fast - FREE pick up. 100% tax deductible. Call 1-800-245-0398

HEALTH & FITNESS

VIAGRA and CIALIS USERS! 50 Generic Pills

SPECIAL $99.00. 100% guaranteed. 24/7 CALL NOW! 888-445-5928 Hablamos Español

Dental insurance from Physicians Mutual Insurance Company. Coverage for 400+ procedures. Real dental insurance - not just a discount plan. Get your free Information Kit with details! 1-855-526-1060 www. dental50plus.com/ads #6258

Attention oxygen therapy users! Discover oxygen therapy that moves with you with Inogen Portable Oxygen Concentrators. Free information kit. 1-866-477-9045

HOME SERVICES

Aging Roof? New Homeowner? Got Storm Damage? You need a local expert provider that proudly stands behind their work. Fast, free estimate. Financing available. Call 1-888878-9091

Water damage cleanup: A small amount of water can cause major damage to your home. Our trusted professionals dry out wet areas & repair to protect your family & your home value! Call 24/7: 1-888-872-2809. Have zip code!

Professional lawn service: Fertilization, weed control, seeding, aeration & mosquito control. Call now for a free quote. Ask about our first application special! 1-833-606-6777

MISCELLANEOUS

Prepare for power outages today with a Generac Home Standby Generator. Act now to receive a FREE 5-Year warranty with qualifying purchase* Call 1-855-948-6176 today to schedule a free quote. It’s not just a generator.

CLASSIFIEDS

It’s a power move.

Eliminate gutter cleaning forever! LeafFilter, the most advanced debris-blocking gutter protection. Schedule free LeafFilter estimate today. 20% off Entire Purchase. 10% Senior & Military Discounts. Call 1-833-610-1936

Bath & shower updates in as little as 1 day! Affordable prices - No payments for 18 months! Lifetime warranty & professional installs. Senior & military discounts available. 1-877-543-9189

Become a published author. We want to read your book! Dorrance Publishing trusted since 1920. Consultation, production, promotion & distribution. Call for free author’s guide 1-877-729-4998 or visit dorranceinfo.com/ ads

Safe Step. North America's #1 Walk-in tub. Comprehensive lifetime warranty. Top-of-theline installation and service. Now featuring our free shower package & $1600 off - limited time! Financing available. 1-855-417-1306

Wesley Financial Group, LLC Timeshare Cancellation ExpertsOver $50,000,000 in timeshare debt & fees cancelled in 2019. Get free info package & learn how to get rid of your timeshare! Free consultations. Over 450 positive reviews. 833-308-1971

DIRECTV Stream - Carries the most local MLB Games! Choice Package $89.99/mo for 12 mos Stream on 20 devices at once. HBO Max included for 3 mos (w/Choice Package or higher.) No contract or hidden fees! Some restrictions apply. Call IVS 1-866-859-0405

Replace your roof w/the best looking & longest lasting material steel from Erie Metal Roofs! 3 styles & multiple colors available. Guaranteed to last a lifetime! Limited Time Offer up to 50% off install + Additional 10% off install (military, health & 1st responders.) 1-833-370-1234

Jacuzzi Bath Remodel can install a new, custom bath or shower in as little as one day. For a limited time, waving ALL installation costs! (Additional terms apply. Subject to change and vary by dealer.) Offer ends 8/25/24. Call 1-844-501-3208

Don't let the stairs limit your mobility! Discover the ideal solution for anyone who struggles on the stairs, is concerned about a fall or wants to regain access to their entire home. Call AmeriGlide today! 1-833-399-3595

Home break-ins take less than 60 seconds. Don't wait! Protect your family, your home, your assets now for as little as 70¢/day! 1-844-591-7951

MobileHelp America's premier mobile medical alert system. Whether you're home or away. For safety & peace of mind. No long term contracts! Free brochure! Call 1-888489-3936

MID ATLANTIC COMMUNITY PAPERS ASSOCIATION CLASSIFIED NETWORK (MACNET)

ANNOUNCEMENTS

Become a Published Author. We want to Read Your Book! Dorrance Publishing-Trusted by Authors Since 1920 Book manuscript submissions currently being reviewed. Comprehensive Services: Consultation, Production, Promotion and Distribution Call for Your Free Author`s Guide 1-866-482-1576 or visit dorranceinfo.com/macnet

Donate your car, truck, boat, RV and more

to support our veterans! Schedule a FAST, FREE vehicle pickup and receive a top tax deduction! Call Veteran Car Donations at 1-877-327-0686 today!

Replace your roof with the best looking and longest lasting material, steel from Erie Metal Roofs! Three styles and multiple colors available. Guaranteed to last a lifetime! Limited Time Offer up to 50% off installation + Additional 10% off install (for military, health workers & 1st responders.) Call Erie Metal Roofs: 1-855-338-4807

AUTO DONATIONS/AUTOS WANTED

Get a break on your taxes! Donate your car, truck, or SUV to assist the blind and visually impaired. Arrange a swift, no-cost vehicle pickup and secure a generous tax credit for 2025. Call Heritage for the Blind Today at 1-844-320-2804 today!

FINANCIAL SERVICE

Inflation is at 40 year highs. Interest rates are way up. Credit Cards. Medical Bills. Car Loans. Do you have $10k or more in debt? Call NATIONAL DEBT RELIEF and find out how to pay off your debt for significantly less than what you owe! FREE quote: Call 1-866-272-0492

HEALTH/MEDICAL

DENTAL INSURANCE from Physicians Mutual Insurance Company. Coverage for 350 plus procedures. Real dental insurance - NOT just a discount plan. Do not wait! Call now! Get your FREE Dental Information Kit with all the details! 1-877-553-1891 www.dental50plus. com/macnet #6258

DIAGNOSED WITH LUNG CANCER and 65+? You may qualify for a substantial cash award. NO obligation! We’ve recovered millions. Let us help!! Call 24/7, 1-866-590-5563

Stroke and Cardiovascular disease are leading causes of death, according to the American Heart Association. Screenings can provide peace of mind or early detection! Contact Life Line Screening to schedule your screening. Special offer - 5 screenings for just $149. Call 1-866-518-8391

Don’t let the stairs limit your mobility! Discover the ideal solution for anyone who struggles on the stairs, is concerned about a fall or wants to regain access to their entire home. Call AmeriGlide today!  1-844-3175246

HOME IMPROVEMENT

Eliminate gutter cleaning forever! LeafFilter, the most advanced debris-blocking gutter protection. Schedule a FREE LeafFilter estimate today. 20% off Entire Purchase. Plus 10% Senior & Military Discounts. Call 1-855-791-1626

Prepare for power outages today with a Generac Home Standby Generator. Act now to receive a FREE 5-Year warranty with qualifying purchase. Call 1-855-465-7624 today to schedule a free quote. It’s not just a generator. It’s a power move.

Prepare for power outages with Briggs & Stratton® PowerProtect(TM) standby generators - the most powerful home standby generators available. Industry-leading comprehensive warranty - 7 years ($849 value.) Proudly made in the U.S.A. Call Briggs & Stratton 1-855-556-2581

Safe Step. North America’s #1 Walk-In Tub. Comprehensive lifetime warranty. Top-of-theline installation and service. Now featuring our FREE shower package and $1600 Off for a limited time! Call today! Financing available. Call Safe Step 1-833-356-1954

Jacuzzi Bath Remodel can install a new, custom bath or shower in as little as one day. For a limited time, waving ALL installation costs! Additional terms apply. Subject to change and vary by dealer. (Offer ends 8/25/24.) Call 1-844-826-2535

MEDICAL SUPPLIES

Portable Oxygen Concentrator May Be Covered by Medicare! Reclaim independence and mobility with the compact design and long-lasting battery of Inogen One. Free information kit! Call 855-837-7844

MISCELLANEOUS

DIRECTV OVER INTERNET - Get your favorite live TV, sports and local channels. 99% signal reliability! CHOICE Package, $84.99/mo for 12 months. HBO Max and Premium Channels included for 3 mos (w/CHOICE Package or higher.) No annual contract, no hidden fees! Some restrictions apply. Call IVS 1-866-6296086

Need IRS Relief $10K - $125K+ Get Fresh Start or Forgiveness Call 1-877-705-1472 Monday through Friday 7AM-5PM PST

WANTED

BUYING CLASSIC CARS, TRUCKS, SUVs **American and Foreign** Any Condition. Buying entire car collections. $$PAYING CA$H$$ Please call 717-577-8206 KRMiller1965@yahoo.com

WANTED! MOTORCYCLES & MINI BIKES! ANTIQUE AND CLASSIC. Honda, Kawasaki, Suzuki, Yamaha, Triumph, BSA, and other foreign models. $$PAYING CA$H$$ 717-577-8206 KRMiller1965@yahoo.com

MARYLAND STATEWIDE CLASSIFIED ADVERTISING NETWORK

MISC. FOR SALE

Get Boost Infinite! Unlimited Talk, Text and Data For Just $25/mo! The Power Of 3 5G Networks, One Low Price! Call Today and Get The Latest iPhone Every Year On Us! 855-9775719

Prepare for power outages today with a GENERAC Home Standby Generator. Act now to receive a FREE 5-Year warranty with qualifying purchase. Call 1-855-993-0969 today to schedule a free quote. It’s not just a generator. It’s a power move.

DENTAL INSURANCE from Physicians Mutual Insurance Company. Coverage for 350 plus procedures. Real dental insurance - NOT just a discount plan. Do not wait! Call now! Get your FREE Dental Information Kit with all the details! 1-855-337-5228 www.dental50plus. com/MDDC #6258

VEHICLES WANTED

DONATE YOUR CAR/TRUCK/RV - Lutheran Mission Society of MD Compassion Place ministries help local families with food, clothing, counseling. Tax deductible. MVA licensed #W1044. 410-228-8437 www.CompassionPlace.org

Yes, we are at a critical moment in American history not witnessed since the Civil War. The forces of retrenchment are highly organized, well-funded and prepared to do whatever is necessary to impose their minority will on the will of the majority. Donald Trump has publicly stated that he doesn't need the votes. Is that so? Then, tell us, Mr. Trump, how do you intend to come back into power?

Thankfully, Vice President Kamala Harris has prepared herself for this moment in our nation's history. Like Joan of Arc, she has donned her suit of armor and is prepared to confront the enemies of America's democracy! While she has announced her policy positions on a number of issues — favoring a women's right to control her own body, protecting the healthcare of millions of Americans, calling major businesses for a summit to discuss price gouging, continuing her decadeslong fight for equality for all Americans, continuing to address global warming and protecting her fellow Americans from the insane proliferation of senseless gun violence — she knows that this election is about more than a civil debate about policy differences. She knows that this election is about protecting our most cherished

MORIAL from Page 32

grounds bring a wealth of different experiences, knowledge and skills. One study found that diverse and inclusive teams made better decisions than individuals 87% of the time.

Diverse companies see higher revenue, with 75% of companies with strong DEI policies in their

DANIELS from Page 32

The loyalty to Biden of Black leaders such as Rep. Clyburn and others in the Congressional Black Caucus, for instance, has been admirable. But, ultimately, this loyalty could not come at the cost of a second Trump presidency and a MAGA Republican government. Black America must now unite to stop policies that will make it harder for communities of color to vote. It must unite to stop policies that will increase the wealth gap for poorer families. It must

We, the people, are being given the choice to continue our march towards a more perfect union, or to accept a new model of governance where some are considered above the law and the masses are subjugated to an injudicious system where revenge, retribution and cronyism are tolerated with impunity.

I think it is interesting that when the American family has become so dysfunctional, a house divided again, that Almighty God would send us a leader who has shown herself to be a proven guardian of what we hold as sacred: Democracy buttressed by the rule of law.

Kamala Harris has been groomed for this moment of greatness. She has walked through the burning sands of a determined opposition for years. She knows the road ahead will be filled with landmines and treachery. She knows hers is the herculean struggle to protect the soul of the country she loves. But she is ready to accept the challenges that lie before her and, yes, she is endowed with true grit.

I believe that those who have observed Harris prosecuting serious criminals, grilling unscrupulous public officials or consoling the families of children murdered by gun violence would agree with this characterization of Kamala Harris — to

management teams will surpass their financial goals.

The gymnastics world did not sit passively by and wait for a fully-trained Simone Biles to find her own way, unbidden, to the National Championships in 2012. Were it not for a sharp-eyed coach who noticed the tiny 6-year-old on a day care field trip to a gym, Biles may never have been steered

unite to stop policies that will make it harder for Black women to access health care. It must unite to stop policies that will put more guns on our streets and make all communities less safe.

Having achieved an impressive legislative record, President Biden is poised to enter the history books as one of the most influential statesmen in our nation's history. And few presidents can match his achievements in just four years in the White House — from rescuing the United States from the pandemic and putting Americans back to work to re-

paraphrase William Shakespeare, her life is so gentle and the elements so mixed in her that nature might stand and say to all the world: This is a woman!

Yes, America, if we are willing to follow, Kamala Harris is ready to lead. And if we do, one day, history will record that America survived another existential threat to the republic because we, the people, were able to join in one grand chorus of "Hail to the Chief." And that chief was President Kamala Harris. WI

Kamala Harris has been groomed for this moment of greatness. She has walked through the burning sands of a determined opposition for years.

toward the sport. Today she is almost universally recognized as the greatest gymnast of all time.

The leaders of the so-called "anti-woke" movement would rather dominate second-rate institutions than collaborate to build worldclass organizations.

We can give thanks, at least, they're not entrusted to assemble our sports teams. WI

ducing the crushing burden of student debt for millions of people and families.

These achievements ought to be celebrated. And all Americans — not just Democrats — owe President Biden a debt of gratitude for his five decades of service to our country. But now the torch has been passed to a candidate with a better chance of defeating Donald Trump and preserving our democracy. It is why Black leaders and all Black voter must seize this moment and unite to elect Kamala Harris our next president. WI

Each week you’ll get news from The District of Columbia, Prince George’s County, Montgomery County, and Northern Virginia.

You will discover Arts and Entertainment, Social Tidbits, Religion, Sports, People’s Viewpoints, Letters to the Editor, Classified Ads and more! And best of all… No crime, no dirty gossip, just positive news and information each week, which is why…

The Washington Informer is all about you! Name

WILLIAMS from Page 33

to candidate for president of the United States, our Divine 9 and a lot of other "Black Women for Kamala Harris" stepped forward — nearly 45,000 of us and raised more money than many candidates raise in an entire election season to get Kamala started.

We then saw a meeting with Roland Martin called "Black Men for Kamala." I stopped counting the men on the call, but it exceeded

from Page 33

strong Republican Party," Pelosi said in a recent interview with MSNBC.

According to Pelosi, some Republicans have approached her, saying, "You have to beat them in the general because we can't beat them in the primary. And then we will come back to our debate on the issues." There are Republicans who privately are separate from the MAGA extremism and genuinely want to clean house and start over with a new Republican Party. To do that, they need to become Harris Republicans when they vote in November.

One cannot say Republicans didn't have their chance to rid themselves of Trump during his second presidential impeachment. Only seven Republican senators publicly joined the Democrats in voting to convict Trump, falling 10 votes shy of the two-thirds majority required by the Constitution. If Trump loses, will there be a peaceful transfer of power? Republicans cannot have it both ways. On the one hand, they

MAMMEN from Page 33

cent are proficient at reading. Here, white students perform nearly 60 points better in both categories. Lest you think this is a spending problem, D.C. spends more than $22,000 per pupil for this abysmal performance.

Instead of addressing this illiteracy crisis head on, D.C. is doubling down. Last year, the District of Columbia overhauled its social studies program to emphasize things like gender identity and white bias in academia. Sixth graders who can't do long division will learn about how race, privilege and bias determine global resource allocation. High schoolers who lack the literacy to comprehend American classics like "To Kill a Mockingbird" will dwell on how queer, Black indigenous and people of color are

those who came forward the first night of Kamala's campaign. They were followed by "White Dudes for Kamala Harris." Then came "White Women for Kamala Harris," "Asian Women for Kamala Harris." Unions came on board. Hispanics came on board.

Kamala immediately began her opening act and shortly thereafter, she brilliantly chose a candidate for vice president in the person of Gov. Tim Walz of Minnesota. He joined her to bring even more joy

want him to lose, but on the other hand, this is not the time to be partisan by remaining silent when warning signs show the potential of a fair election not being properly certified. A new rule in Georgia could allow some local election boards to refuse to certify results, raising concerns about the November election in a critical swing state. This should be a red flag for Republicans who are looking to the results of the general election to solve their "Trump" problem. Joining the Harris bandwagon is fine for the sake of saving the future of democracy, but will Republicans for Harris go as far as to join Democrats in speaking out in real-time when democracy is threatened before our eyes?

In a word, the Harris-Walz campaign is inspiring. She has not only excited her Democratic base but also encouraged and uplifted those Republicans who felt democracy was slipping away in the same manner as their Republican Party. Timing is everything. The 2020 version of Joe Biden was able to beat Donald Trump, but

impacting change.

This isn't education. This is indoctrination. And while D.C. is particularly bad, this is happening in communities across the country, and it's having an outsized impact on Black kids who have struggled to catch up to their counterparts for decades. These children deserve better than an education that amounts to a self-fulfilling prophecy, where the chance they deserve is replaced by a curriculum full of division, grievances and malice.

That's not to say American history isn't complex. Racism has been and remains a pernicious force, and students of all creeds and colors should understand this story. But our history is enriched by the contributions of Black Americans who overcame barriers as big as slavery and "Jim Crow" to build an enduring legacy. Their descendants are

to the ticket. Together they began a campaign tour with such excitement as one we had not seen before (except for Barack Obama's). Kamala Harris and Tim Walz brought joy back to campaigning, and crowds grew and grew no matter where they went to hold rallies. It's clear as Kamala asks, "Are you ready to fight?" The crowd roars back in the affirmative, and she assures them, "When we fight, we win!" Fighting means we VOTE November 5, 2024! WI

the same could not be said about the 2020 version of Kamala Harris. Polls in 2024 show the reverse is true. With the enthusiasm and excitement surrounding the Democratic ticket, people are sensing this as the perfect opportunity not only to defeat Trump in the presidential election but also to start the dismantling of any long-lasting effects from the MAGA movement. Trump, who may have underestimated a Harris candidacy, could likely see the same thing. He gives himself away when he tells a crowd of Christian supporters that if they vote for him this November, "in four years, you don't have to vote again. We'll have it fixed so good, you're not gonna have to vote."

Many Republicans may truly be persuaded to vote for Harris in 2024, but they were uninformed and seemingly did not understand what happened on Jan. 6. Do they fully understand what just happened in Georgia? If Republicans want Harris to win, they cannot remain blind to the tricks Trump plays.

WI

more than worthy of a system that gives them the tools to dream.

Decades of failure haven't been enough to move the needle. That's why it's time to march. We need to send a message to our leaders in Washington, D.C., that what's happening in communities like D.C. — and Memphis, New Orleans, Minneapolis, Chicago and every place in between — simply can't continue.

Our kids' futures are too important. That's why on Aug. 31, 2024, Every Black Life Matters will be proud to serve as a coalition partner at the March for Kids on the National Mall. We are calling for patriotic, concerned Americans from all walks of life to join us — to fight for the future of all kids and restore sanity in education at a time when it's never been needed more.

WI