By Sam P.K. Collins WI Staff Writer
As District public and public charter schools continue to chart a path forward post-pandemic, education officials continue to analyze the latest statewide assessment results.
Although there were no significant gains in students’ overall math and English & Language Arts (ELA) proficiency, D.C. Mayor Muriel Bowser (D)
SCHOOLS Page 39
By Sam P.K. Collins WI Staff Writer
As D.C. Councilmember Trayon White (D-Ward 8) continues to reel from a federal bribery charge, his political future and that of Ward 8 remains unclear. What’s far from unclear, however, is the apprehension that many Ward 8 residents have about a Republican representing them on the D.C. Council. With only White and Nate Derenge, the Republican nominee, on the general election ballot, a contingent of Ward 8 residents are calling on their neighbors to usher White into another council term while the judicial process and the council’s ad hoc committee investigation are still in motion.
“If we throw Trayon to the wolves and sanction these write-in campaigns, then we bring in a Republican who’s aligned with [former President Donald J.] Trump,” Stuart Anderson, a Ward 8 resident and D.C. Democratic State Committeeman, told The Informer.
On Monday night, Anderson, a political opponent of White, counted STATE Page 34
By Hamil R. Harris WI Contributing Writer
On the night of Aug. 20, during the Democratic National Convention, U.S. Rep. Jonathan Jackson (D-Ill.) pushed his 82 year old father, the Rev. Jesse Jackson, onto the stage of the United Center in Chicago.
In the summer of 1984, Congressman Jackson was only 18 and Vice President
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BRENDA C. SILER, WI CONTRIBUTING WRITER; JAMES WRIGHT, WI STAFF WRITER
Michael Trotter, Jr. and Tanya Trotter continue to ride a wave of success in their careers as the husband and wife duo The War and Treaty.
With several award nominations over the past few years, The War and Treaty recently earned their first-ever GRAMMY nominations for all-genre Best New Artist and Best American Roots Song for their song “Blank Page” from the album “Lover’s Game.”
As a result of an appearance on Celebrity Family Feud earlier this year, The War and Treaty presented a donation to the House of Ruth for $25,000.
Michael Trotter Jr., said he remembers arriving in D.C. at the age of 13 with his mother, and they ended up at the House of Ruth, a nonprofit in D.C. that works with those without a home who have been through domestic violence.
“When we were asked what our charity for Celebrity Family Feud would be, that was an absolute no-brainer. This would be the moment for us for the House of Ruth,” he said, before presenting an oversized check.
The House of Ruth, just one of the Trotters' philanthropic and community outreach efforts, thanked the duo for raising awareness about and uplifting their work.
“We were cheering you guys on,” said Sandra Jackson, president and CEO of the House of Ruth. “We know there are so many other areas where you could have made this donation. Because you thought other people might find themselves in a situation, they must know there is a resource.”
For more information on the House of Ruth, visit houseofruth.org.
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The Coalition of Nonprofit Housing and Economic Development (CNHED) has maintained a website—DCSmallBizHelp--designed to help firms discover, connect and navigate the District’s small business ecosystem.
“The DCSmallBizHelp website was initially created as a result of the recommendations outlined in our Small Business Policy Project back in 2014,” said Stephen Glaude, president of the CNHED. “The vision for the website has always been to help small businesses find and navigate the myriad of resources, services, and programs available in the District. With funding from Truist, CNHED was afforded
the opportunity to revamp and relaunch our website to reflect the small business ecosystem.”
Components of the website include Business Support Programs, Capital Providers and Government Services. The website regularly highlights webinars on a variety of topics such as financing, management, licensing and work balance.
There is also a Small Business Ecosystem Map that reveals programs in the District designed to aid smaller firms. Glaude said strengthening the connections with small businesses is a goal of the DCSmallBizHelp website.
“CNHED will connect with the small business community to identify ways to enhance and round out the information on the website, and to identify additional resources that are needed for small businesses,” Glaude added. “We plan to gather data and analytics to help us refine how we target, communicate, and connect with small businesses. As part of Advancing Communities, CNHED will share best practices around small business ecosystem building.” WI
On Friday, Aug. 30, a special gathering of musicians at Westminster Church in Southwest, D.C. will honor the late National Endowment for the Arts Jazz Master and trumpeter Donald Byrd and pianist/composer Kevin Toney, one of the original members of The Blackyrds. It was in 1973 when the lives of seven Howard University students were changed when legendary jazz trumpeter Donald Byrd anointed them The Blackbyrds, the jazz/R&B fusion group. Original members Kevin Toney, Keith Killgo, Joe Hall, Allan Barnes, Barney Perry and Perk Jacobs performed memorable hits worldwide but are always remembered as the pride of Howard University. Killgo, also an original member of The Blackbyrds, will lead a group of musicians in a tribute to Byrd and Toney, who died in March from cancer. This concert has just been added to the 20th Anniversary JazzFest schedule. For the full 20th anniversary DC JazzFest schedule and
to learn more about the festival, for which The Washington Informer is a proud partner, visit dcjazzfest.org. WI
By Hamil R. Harris WI Contributing Writer
When Imam Talib Shareef of Masjid Muhammad in Northwest, D.C. learned he was scheduled to deliver the invocation on Tuesday night of the Democratic National Convention (DNC), he immediately expressed his gratitude for being able to take part in the momentous occasion.
“I give all praise and thanks to Almighty G-d for the invitation and opportunity to participate in this exciting and historic event,” Shareef told The Informer. “Being invited is an important statement from the DNC, its candidate, and our nation.”
During the convention on Aug. 20, Shareef’s prayer emphasized justice, peace and celebrating diversity for a better and stronger nation and world.
“Bless us to embrace our shared identity and diverse expressions of life that contribute to the beauty and strength of America, a nation of nations, made up of people coming together from every land,” Shareef said during the prayer witnessed by millions nationwide and globally. “In moving forward with a bold vision for the future, we pray it will reflect our nation's diversity and intrinsic nature
to live together intelligently.”
Shareef told The Informer that his participation in the DNC shows “that Islam is a welcomed part of our nation, as are all the other faith traditions.”
He also said his participation shows “that the Harris-Walz ticket is committed to our nation’s diverse population, its foundational values and laws protecting religious freedom.”
District resident Ibrahim Mumin emphasized the importance of Shareef having such a massive platform, to continue his work to offer hope and unity locally, nationally and worldwide in a time of divisiveness.
“To me the importance of the moment is that we have to be intentional,” said Ibrahim Mumin. “We have to have relationships with everybody. We have to be mature and not just emotional.”
Mumin also said Shareef’s participation in the DNC emphasized the importance of having diverse voices heard by all Americans voting in the general election.
“The choices are Trump or Kamala,” Mumin told The Informer. “When it comes down to voting, we have to be around the table. We can't have everybody outside the table.” WI
AUG. 29
1920 – Jazz saxophone virtuoso Charlie "Bird" Parker is born in Kansas City, Kansas.
1958 – Michael Jackson, the legendary "King of Pop," is born in Gary, Indiana.
1962 – Malvin Goode becomes the first African American television news commentator when he begins broadcasting on ABC as a United Nations correspondent.
AUG. 30
1966 – Constance Baker Motley becomes the first African American woman federal judge when she is appointed to the United States District Court for the Southern District of New York.
1967 – Thurgood Marshall is confirmed by the Senate as the first-ever Black Supreme Court justice.
1980 – Guion Bluford, a former NASA astronaut, becomes the first African American in space.
AUG. 31
1935 – Former Black Panther Eldridge Cleaver, author of "Soul on Ice," is born in Wabbaseka, Arkansas.
1935 – Hall of Fame baseball player Frank Robinson, who was also the first-ever African American hired to manage a Major League Baseball team, is born in Beaumont, Texas.
1962 – The nation of Trinidad and Tobago declares its independence from the United Kingdom.
SEPT. 1
1904 – George C. Poage becomes the first African
AUG 29 - SEPT 4 , 2024
SOURCE: BLACK AMERICA WEB
American to win a medal in the Olympic Games by taking the bronze in the 200-yard and 400-yard hurdles.
1979 – Hazel Johnson-Brown becomes the U.S. Army's first Black female general when she assumed command of the Army Nurse Corps.
SEPT. 2
1946 – Grammy-winning singer and musician Billy Preston is born in Houston.
1958 – African American inventor Frederick M. Jones is issued a patent for a control device for the internal combustion engine.
1965 – Boxing great Lennox Lewis is born in Lon-
SEPT. 3
1838 – Abolitionist Frederick Douglass escapes from slavery in Maryland by disguising himself as a sailor and boarding a Pennsylvania-bound train. 1846 – The American Missionary Association, an abolitionist group that helped educate freed slaves, is founded in Albany, New York.
1919 – The film "A Man's Duty" is released by Lincoln Motion Picture Company, an African American-owned company, marking the first feature-length film by a Black filmmaker.
1990 – Jonathan A. Rodgers is named president of CBS's television stations division, becoming the high est-ranking African American in network television at the time.
SEPT. 4
1908 – Famed author Richard Wright known for penning "Native Son" and "Black Boy," is born in Roxie, Mississippi.
1981 – Grammy-win ning singer yoncé is born in Houston. WI
BY SARAFINA WRIGHT
With the upcoming presidential election in November, what key things do you want to see from the next administration?
CHRIS DACOSTA / NEW YORK, N.Y.
MARC MITCHELL / COLUMBUS, OHIO
Honestly, I want to see dedication to service and reparations for the descendants of enslaved Africans.
Lower taxes for the middle and lower class, raise the minimum wage to a living wage, and universal healthcare.
A. RAS / TAMPA, FLA.
JACOBI WALKER / WASHINGTON, D.C.
I’m here for livable wages, rent/mortgage control, and reparations.
Lower taxes, free healthcare, and the decriminalization of marijuana.
CYNTHIA KIDD / WASHINGTON, D.C.
We need healthcare, lower taxes for the middle class, and a woman’s right to choose.
PROFESSIONAL
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.
By Micha Green and Hamil Harris WI Managing Editor and WI Contributing Writer
For the world, the 2024 Democratic National Convention (DNC) was a nationwide gathering featuring current and former politicians, celebrities, and influencers delivering several speeches that emphasized bringing back “joy,” to the United States. However, for those from the DMV, the national gathering was also a moment for local leaders to go to Chicago for information and inspiration, so that they’re able to mobilize the people back home.
“I am here because of the energy and joy and I want to make sure that we help Kamala Harris become the 47th president of the United States,” said Sheila Bunn, chief of staff for D.C. Councilmember Vincent Gray (D-Ward 7), a member of the D.C. Democratic Party, and third vice president of the Ward 8 Democrats, on the last night of the DNC. “It is important that people [in the Black community] understand why it’s important to not just vote, but to bring a friend, a family member and their family member to the polls.”
Bunn emphasized why voting is not something to take lightly, particularly in 2024.
“We have to come out and vote
5Sheila Bunn, a member of the D.C. Democratic Party, and third vice president of the Ward 8 Democrats, on Aug. 22 at the Democratic National Convention in Chicago. (Micha Green/ The Washington Informer)
like our lives depend on it because they actually do. We can’t go back, it’s time to move forward, with Kamala Harris and Tim Walz,” she told The Informer.
From events before the DNC officially kicked off, to post convention parties, DMV residents and leaders played critical roles in the week’s programming, participated in major activities, and were eager to share what they’ve gained since doing so with their communities.
The Rev. Zina Pierre, a Maryland minister and former special assistant in the Clinton Administration, presided over a pre-convention worship service on Sunday, Aug. 18 entitled, “Our Values, Our Voice and Our Vote.”
“Putting God first is the strength of anything we do,” Pierre said.
As she works to encourage people to the polls through her role as a faith leader , Pierre noted that mobilizing voters is different than in years past because “many churches today are not in brick
“I am here because of the energy and joy and I want to make sure that we help Kamala Harris become the 47th president of the United States,” said Sheila Bunn.
and mortar,” spaces.
The Rev. Tony Lee, pastor of Community of Hope A.M.E, in Temple Hills, Maryland, attended the Chicago DNC, as a board member of the National Coalition on Black Civic Participation.
He visited with pro-Palestinian protestors in Chicago, noting their voices are equally as important as those speaking at the convention.
The local pastor emphasized he
DMV Page 9
By Richard Elliott WI Contributing Reporter
The DMV landmark known as FedEx Field is now Commanders Field, following the relinquishing of naming rights and an early end to a deal originally intended to last through 2026. Ending the naming rights two years early will cost the Commanders and new owner Josh Harris roughly $15 million.
"We thank FedEx Corporation for its longstanding naming rights sponsorship and their work with our team and community and look forward to their continued partnership within the Commanders' family," read an official statement from the team posted in February.
In February, FedEx Corporation announced they were ending their decades-long sponsorship of the stadium while still maintaining a partnership with the Commanders. The name was officially removed from the stadium on Aug. 5 and efforts to find a new sponsor are underway.
"We have already started the process of identifying our next stadium naming rights partner,” stated a team press release to The Washington Post. “A partner who will play a crucial role in ushering
appreciated being able to connect with others and witness history.
“For me, I was in Denver when Obama accepted the nomination,” Lee said. “It is just a blessing to be part of history. Under Obama, you heard people say ‘We never thought that it would happen in our lifetime.’ This is another ‘in our lifetime' kind of moment.”
Bunn reflected on the importance of Harris’ nomination and what it could mean for others if she were to win the election.
“I have a 14-year-old daughter and I am so excited about the possibility of her seeing the first woman, the first Black and [South] Asian woman, becoming the president of the United States,” Bunn told The Informer.
She offered ways DMV resi-
in the next era of not only Commanders football, but also a robust slate of top live events and concerts."
Former owner Dan Snyder sold the naming rights to the stadium for $7.6 million per year and it was officially renamed on Nov. 21, 1999.
The team’s ownership group invested $75 million into fan experience, including two new luxury areas and $10 million for expedited automated food service areas. Harris cited Los Angeles’ SoFi Stadium and Las Vegas’ Allegiant Stadium as models to emulate.
The 1932 Club offers all you can eat food, free beer and wine, and theater-style suites: the $7,500 season tickets sold out over the first weekend of sales. The Tunnel Club will allow members to enter through the same tunnel as the team and opportunities to meet the players.
Despite upgrades, some fans have noted rising beverage costs: water is now $6, Gatorade is now $8, and beer is nearly $20.
The team’s future at FedEx Field remains cloudy. Past discussions to move the team and other local sports teams to an entertainment district in Alexandria remain stalled and D.C. leaders are dis-
dents can help Harris secure the presidency.
“The call-to-action is to actually go out to battleground states and help knock on doors, to phone banks, to texts, to write letters to those undecided, to help them understand why they are so important to helping Kamala Harris become the 47th president,” Bunn told The Informer. “We can’t sit home. There’s too much on the line. Women’s reproductive rights, civil liberties, LGBTQ rights, housing, Medicare, health care.”
Bunn also had a particular message for African American voters, recalling former President Donald Trump, the Republican presidential nominee, referring to immigrants taking “Black jobs.”
“We cannot sit. We have to get out there and do our Black job and vote,” she said. WI
cussing the potential to repurpose the RFK Stadium for the Commanders to move.
The team also moved their business operations from the stadium to College Park earlier this year.
The team is also planning to redo the team’s commemoration to the late Sean Taylor, a defensive star who was tragically killed in a home invasion in 2007, and give him the honor of being the team’s first statue for a former player.
Jackie Taylor, the daughter of Sean Taylor, will have input in the design process.
“We've been working closely with the Taylor family and came to a decision jointly that it was probably time to look for something new,” said Harris. “We'll be considering that over the next season with the family.”
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Usher’s “Past, Present, Future,” global tour kicked off at Capital One Arena with a sold-out performance on Aug. 20.
(Abdullah J. Konte/ The Washington Informer)
https://www
“Nothing
Roy Wilkins
House of Ruth staff Sharon Knight and Julian Gross read The Washington Informer. (Ja'Mon Jackson/ The Washington Informer)
By James Wright WI Staff Writer
B. Doyle Mitchell Jr., the president and CEO of Industrial Bank, darted from place to place at the Howard Theatre in Northwest, D.C. on Aug. 20, making sure everything was in order for the 90th anniversary celebration of his family-run financial institution.
As people filed into the theater wearing business casual attire and some wearing sneakers as Mitchell requested in the invitation, he shook hands and accepted congratulations on his family managing the District’s long standing Black bank for almost a century.
Nicole Elam, the president and CEO of the National Bankers Association—the organization consisting mainly of African American owned financial institutions—stood close to Mitchell, admiring the purpose of the event.
“I am honored to be here,” said Elam. “Industrial has been a dedicated member of the National Banking Association. It has been an important part of the economic development of the Black community here in Washington. Businesses such as Carolina’s Kitchen, Lee’s Flower Shop and Ben’s Chili Bowl have benefitted from Industrial Bank. Doyle has also been a leader in the [National Bankers Association] and is leading the effort to get a new headquarters for us.”
As Industrial Bank celebrated its anniversary, Mitchell also expressed the importance of having such institutions, noting 22 out of the country’s 4,000 banks are Black-owned. The numbers of Black banks are decreasing, with current numbers standing in contrast to 1976, when the National Black Bank Foundation reported that there were more than 50 African American owned banks across the U.S.
The country was in the Great Depression in 1933 when Howard University-educated Jesse Mitchell and a group of friends decided to establish a new bank to serve Black Washingtonians. The group took over the former Industrial Bank, with the approval of the federal government, and proceeded to sell $50,000 in stock to finance the bank.
The new bank was called the Indus-
trial Bank of Washington and received its certificate of incorporation from the U.S. Treasury Department on August 13, 1934.
The bank opened its doors on August 20, 1934 with six employees and $192,000 in assets.
Jesse Mitchell served as president of the institution until he stepped aside for his son, the original B. Doyle Mitchell, in late 1954 primarily due to illness. Jesse Mitchell died in March 1955.
When B. Doyle Mitchell Sr. became president of the bank in December 1954, it was the only Black bank in the District and the largest of its type in the country with assets totaling $7 million.
Upon the passing of his father in 1993, Mitchell Jr. assumed the helm of president and his sister, Patricia Mitchell, became executive vice president.
Company officials report that Industrial presently has over a half a billion in assets, over 140 employees, branches in the District, Prince George’s County, Maryland, Newark, New Jersey, the Harlem neighborhood in New York City and an Innovation Campus in Largo, Maryland.
Joel Caston is a strong supporter and customer of Industrial Bank.
Caston received widespread attention when he was elected as an advisory neighborhood commissioner in 2021 while a resident of the D.C. Jail, the only elected official in the country to be incarcerated.
While Caston’s political career captured headlines, what many people don’t know about is his financial acu-
men. Caston said he was already studying and teaching his fellow residents at the jail about financial literacy, but Industrial’s program complemented his efforts.
“I really liked how relation-able the staff who came to the facility were,” Caston, 48, said. “They were good-spirited individuals who were relatable to incarcerated people. They taught residents the importance of setting up a checking and savings account at a bank. It was a program.”
Caston said Industrial Bank celebrated the program participants and has continued their support of formerly incarcerated individuals once released.
“When the program was completed, they treated us to a nice dinner and Doyle and Patricia Mitchell attended. Industrial’s program has helped several residents get started financially when they were released.”
Mitchell said he didn’t want to do a “traditional and stuffy” event, but an affair where people could celebrate the success of Industrial Bank.
The event was also a fundraiser for Duke Ellington School of the Arts in Northwest, D.C. and a salute to Cynthia Mitchell, his mother who taught in District public schools for 34 years.
Mitchell is optimistic about the future of Industrial Bank.
Next steps, Mitchell said, includes: “More digitization, which will continue to keep pace with the ever-evolving consumer’s desire to access financial services the way they choose.” WI @JamesWrightJr10
By Richard Elliott WI Contributing Reporter
Not far from Suitland High School, the Durant Center hosted a back to school community day on the afternoon of Aug. 24 outside of their office on Silver Hill Road. The event, free to the public, included a backpack giveaway, a DJ, free haircuts, a moon bounce and tables with community resources such as the Suitland Civic Association and PGPD Explorers Program.
Over the course of the event, 1,000 backpacks were made available along with snacks and school supplies for attending families.
Throughout the event, Wanda Durant, executive director of the Durant Center and mother of NBA superstar Kevin Durant, took pictures with appreciative fans and talked at community tables when she had a
spare moment.
“The possibilities education provides are allowing the young to imagine, to do whatever it is they want to do,” Durant told The Informer. “It opens opportunities to do the things they’ve dreamed, and to believe in themselves and go higher and farther.”
Durant is no stranger to philanthropy. The executive director, her family and the Durant Center have previously dedicated funds to the Seat Pleasant Activity Center and to Bowie State University’s basketball arena, giving back to the rising generation of Prince Georgians.
Community leaders and members talked about the importance of the Durant Center’s work.
“I’m absolutely ecstatic. I’m interested and reassured in connecting with the community. We are building these students into well educated citizens that will perform well into the future. A lot of people don’t believe Suitland is a good school based on what they think about the com-
munity and that’s just not true. This is a wonderful school,” said new Suitland High School’s new principal Maurice Wright, who was on hand for the giveaway.
“I was here from 2003-2007, and the students performed Spectacularly, and I expect these young folks to do the same. We’re operating off an ‘all-in theory.’ The community, the school, the students, and the educa-
By Richard Elliott WI Contributing Reporter
The Big Lots locations in Bowie, Glen Burnie, and Laurel are among the 315 slated to close across the nation. Another location in Capitol Heights’ Ritchie Station plans to remain open.
"While the majority of our stores are profitable, we have made the difficult decision to close certain underperforming stores," a company spokesperson said via email.
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tors are all working, making sure we all achieve excellence. We are all in!”
The Durant Center also runs College Track, focused on helping students both get into college and succeed academically while enrolled. They have provided over 300 scholarships, with the overwhelming majority being to first generation and low-income students.
Eight College Track students were
BurgerFi, a fast casual eatery that prides itself on all-natural burgers and quality ingredients, has opened up on St. Joseph’s Drive in Bowie.
The restaurant was praised by Consumer Report in 2021 for serving beef without antibiotics for three years running, and other have celebrated BurgerFi including 11 straight ratings a Top 10 Brand by Fast Casual.
There are other BurgerFi locations in Oxon Hill, Silver Spring, Gaithersburg, and Arlington.
“If you don't innovate, you die,”
LOCAL UPDATES Page 13
celebrated during the community day, several of whom attended Suitland High School.
“We know that it’s important that youth have a foundation. Life is much easier when you get what you need,” said event volunteer Neven Milline. He expects that there will be another community event with the Durant Center this Thanksgiving.
“We’re working from the elementary kids all the way to the high schoolers to make sure their school needs are met,” said Milline.
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The Prince George’s Police Department (PGPD) is partnering with Jacob’s Ladder Youth Foundation to open a community closet to provide clothing for those in need, especially students as the new school year ramps up.
“Kids might be at the bus stops and don’t have coats walking to school,” said Jacob’s Ladder founder Jarriel Jordan.
Jacob’s Ladder aims to help reduce poverty, unemployment, and crime.
“That’s when we come in and assist the community with these resources,” Jordan explained.
Donations are being collected at the Westphalia-Division VIII Patrol Station, located at 8803 Police Plaza in Upper Marlboro, and are welcome year-round. Unused toiletries, baby clothes, sweaters, jackets, suits, shirts, pants, and shoes are all accepted throughout the year.
“Going to school can be a very stressful time, so a lot of parents don’t have or don’t want to come out and say that they don’t have clothes,” said PGPD Community Captain Thomas Boone. “We want to give them the opportunity with the clothing closet… Partners such as Jacob's Ladder say ‘Hey we’re here to fill in that gap.'”
For more information, contact the program coordinator at 301-516-5200.
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Richard Elliott WI Contributing Reporter
Maryland’s delegation to the Democratic National Convention was given particular prominence last week during the four-day convening, as both Prince George’s County Executive and Democratic U.S. Senate nominee Angela Alsobrooks and Maryland Gov. Wes Moore (D) gave speeches seen by millions across the globe, raising their national profiles.
Alsobrooks is in a competitive statewide election for partisan control of the Senate against former Maryland Gov. Larry Hogan (R), who was personally recruited by Sen. Mitch McConell (R-Ky.) for the seat.
Vice President Kamala Harris, the Democratic presidential nominee, was an early endorser of Alsobrooks, and has made several stops in the DMV.
Harris and President Joe Biden held a rally at Prince George’s Community College on Aug. 15 to spotlight their efforts to reduce prescription drug costs, a plan that will save consumers and taxpayers several billion dollars, and to galvanize enthusiasm for the Democratic ticket.
“I’ve always been inspired by women like my grandmother – women who imagine a better future, and then have the grit to make it a reality. One of those women is a friend, a mentor, and a role model. That woman is Kamala Harris,” said Alsobrooks during her keynote address at the DNC. Alsobrooks emphasized Harris
LOCAL UPDATES from Page 12
said BurgerFi CEO Carl Bachmann.
He plans to elevate taste and expand menu options at their franchises.
“I think that's a problem for our industry. We have to continue to innovate with new reasons to come and try a free trial of our food, especially where we have such a white space in both of our brands,” Bachmann said.
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is about progress.
“We stand with Kamala Harris because we as a country are not going back. For the ancestors who sat at lunch counters and made sure that we all had the right to vote, we are not going back. For the mamas and grandmamas who marched to make sure that women could control our own bodies, we are not going back. For the parents who work from can’t-see in the morning until can’t-see at night not so that they will have a better future but their children will have a better future, we are not going back,” Alsobrooks declared.
The Prince George’s County Executive first attended the DNC in 1992 as an intern with the Congressional Black Caucus. During this year’s festivities, she held a Chicago fundraiser with former U.S. Senator Carol Moseley Braun and Delaware’s Democratic nominee for Senate, Congresswoman Lisa Blunt Rochester.
Moseley Braun noted Alsobrooks’ strength.
“People don’t understand how much work goes into representing a whole state,” said Moseley Braun. “You’ve got to reconcile all these competing interests. It’s a big job, but I think you’re up to it.”
Alsobrooks racked up more endorsements during August from national organizations including the Asian American Action Fund, People for the American Way, and the Maryland affiliates of Laborers’ International Union of North America (LIUNA). Her campaign schedule during August has included a scholarship ceremo-
The former Regal Bowie cinema, right across the highway from Bowie Town Center, was sold for $10.25 million to Passion Java Ministries on July 18. This is roughly $6.25 million more than commercial real estate veteran John Campanella paid for the property last year.
The site, sitting on 12 acres, is currently assessed for $9.1 million.
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ny in East Baltimore, a meet and greet at the National Golf Club in Fort Washington, and a tour of the Eastern Shore. Following the DNC’s conclusion, Alsobrooks held a welcome home event at Denizens Brewing Company in Riverdale Park on Aug. 23.
Moore read the rollcall vote for Maryland’s Delegates with the backing of “Respect” by Aretha Franklin.
“We are Maryland, and we represent Marylanders past and present who’ve contributed to America’s greatness. We are the birthplace of Harriet Tubman, Thurgood Marshall, and Frederick Douglass,” said the governor. “We are the place where soldiers defended our freedoms in Baltimore and Antietam, and the home to thousands of veterans. This community of patriots is proud to cast our votes for the next President of the United States: Kamala Harris!”
Less than a week before speaking at the DNC, attendees chant-
ed “48!” as he spoke during the rally in Prince George’s: a clear sign of support for the young governor’s potential future in national politics.
“My training taught me you never learn anything about any-
body when times are easy,” Moore said during his keynote speech at the DNC, seen by millions of viewers. “You learn about them when times are hard. And America: Kamala Harris is the right one to lead us in this moment.” WI
By James Wright / WI Staff Writer
The District’s Office of the Deputy Mayor for Planning and Economic Development (DMPED) announced on Aug. 22 the selection of HR&A Advisors as the owner’s representative to support the city’s planning, design, and eventual redevelopment of Poplar Point.
HR&A will help the District complete the steps required to transfer Poplar Point from the National Park Service (NPS) to the city and unlock the 110-acre waterfront site for redevelopment
opportunities that leaders say will benefit residents and neighboring communities.
“Poplar Point is our opportunity to fully realize the potential of the Anacostia Waterfront and transform this site into a mixed-use development, world-class park, and entertainment destination that will deliver jobs, business opportunities and housing to Ward 8,” said Nina Albert, deputy mayor for Planning and Economic Development. “Mayor [Muriel] Bowser’s leadership in moving complex, yet important projects forward ensures that we will maximize every opportunity to create economic prosperity for our residents.”
DMPED also released a Request
for Expressions of Interest (REI) for a catalytic, large scale destination anchor to be built on up to 15 acres at Poplar Point. The destination anchor will serve the District’s broader economic development goals as part of the Mayor’s DC Comeback Plan to both ensure thriving neighborhoods and increase recurring domestic and international visitation.
The destination developer is expected to be of significant scale, providing a source of substantial tax revenue, jobs and environmental benefits, many of which will be easily accessible to communities east of the Anacostia River. Before the property can be transferred to the District, the NPS and USPP (United States Park Police) facilities on the site must be relocated.
The initial task of the owner’s representative will include the design of the new NPS and USPP and leading the environmental assessment and planning process. The owner’s representative will also assist the District in the planning and design required to redevelop the land post-transfer.
REQUEST FOR PROPOSALS (RFP) SOLICITATION NO.: 39-2024
Fiscal Year 2024, 2025 & 2026 Financial Audit
The District of Columbia Housing Authority (DCHA) requires licensed, qualified professionals to provide Fiscal Year 2024, 2025 & 2026 Financial Audit in response to this solicitation.
SOLICITATION DOCUMENT will be available beginning Monday, August 26, 2024, on DCHA’s website at www.dchousing.org under “Business” and “Solicitations”. Also available on, https://dchousing.bonfirehub.com/portal
Proposers will then need to log in and locate this RFP for all related documents. It is the Proposers responsibility to check the Bonfire site regularly to stay current on the documents that are available as this is the primary communication site for this RFP.
To access files Vendors are required to Register on the Bonfire platform. See registration link below. https://vendor.bonfirehub.com/
PROPOSAL RESPONSES ARE DUE ON OR BEFORE Tuesday, September 10, 2024, at 12:00 NOON.
Email Ahmad Zubair Majeed, Sr. Procurement Consultant, at amajeed@dchousing.org with copy to business@dchousing.org for additional information.
To view the RFEI and learn more about the Poplar Point redevelopment, visit dmped.dc.gov.
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The D.C. Department of Small and Local Business Development is the founder of the new EatsPlace Line of Credit program for food businesses.
The new program is designed to boost the bottom line for District-based food businesses and fund projects that confront food waste. Highlights of the program include access to $10,000 and only pay interest on what is used; no fees with a 6% fixed interest; and a one-year term with option to renew.
Applicants can get one-on-one help; personalized assistance from EatsPlace; information sessions covering program details; eligibility requirements; line of credit process and application submission; and transform or American Sign Language services upon request.
The application deadline is Oct. 3.
For more information, visit eatsplace.com or info@eatsplace.com.
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The Emerald Cities Collaborative (ECC) DC Contractor Incubator is designed to empower local small and disadvantaged firms in the District to effectively compete in the 21-st century construction industry. By focusing on the green building and clean energy sectors, the program strengthens participants’ knowledge, skills, and networks.
The incubator offers an eight-week program that includes coaching and strategic business support to ensure that small and minority firms are ready to lead in the District’s growing market for building retrofits. This is especially important as building owners begin to invest in improvements and comply with the Building Energy Performance Standards.
The application deadline is Sept. 11.
For more information and to register, go to emeraldcities-eca. WI
VOICESDMV TO RECEIVE DR. SHEILA BROOKS COMMUNITY IMPACT AWARD
from Page 14
The Washington Association of Black Journalists (WABJ) announced that VoicesDMV, a community engagement initiative spearheaded by the Greater Washington Community Foundation, has been selected as the 2024 recipient of the Dr. Sheila Brooks Community Impact Award.
This award celebrates the work of Dr. Sheila Brooks, a longtime member of WABJ and NABJ (National Association of Black Journalists), who has contributed over four decades of exemplary service in journalism, communications, and social impact in the community. Brooks, an entrepreneur, author, and Emmy-award-winning journalist is the founder, president, and CEO of SRB Communications, a firm specializing in multicultural marketing and advertising.
The award will be presented at WABJ’s 2024 Special Honors and Scholarship Gala on Dec. 7 at the Blackburn Center on the campus of Howard University.
This award recognizes a local business leader or organization’s commitment to amplifying the voices and needs of underrepresented communities across the Washington area.
For the last seven years, VoicesDMV has served as an advocate for disenfranchised communities in the Washington area.
VoicesDMV’s Community Insights Report has been an insightful tool for community leaders, donors and philanthropists to learn more about how they can alleviate socio-economic disparities.
The report conveys the concerns of people who are housing and food insecure due to the extreme wealth gap in the District.
In addition, VoicesDMV empowers community members to use their voices to advocate for themselves and solidify their place in the communities to which they work, live and thrive.
“VoicesDMV has demonstrated a deep dedication to fostering community engagement, providing a platform for the lived experiences of marginalized populations, and promoting social justice through its data collection surveys and the Voices DMV Community Insights Report,” the WABJ Executive Board said in a statement. “Its work not only informs but also empowers communities and stakeholders to take action, making a significant impact on the lives of countless individuals.”
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@JamesWrightJr10
By Stacy M. Brown WI Senior Writer
On the night of Thursday, Aug. 22, Vice President Kamala Harris formally accepted the Democratic nomination for president, after a week filled with celebration, reflection, and a sense of history in the making. Following in the trailblazing footsteps of Shirley Chisholm, who ran for president 52 years ago, Harris became the first Black woman to receive a major political party’s nomination for presi-
dent while speaking to a packed house at the United Center in Chicago.
“America, the path that led me here in recent weeks was no doubt unexpected. But I’m no stranger to unlikely journeys,” Harris told the enthusiastic crowd, which greeted her with a standing ovation. She reflected on her late mother, Shyamala Harris, sharing a poignant story that resonated deeply.
“My mother was 19 when she crossed the world alone, traveling from India to California with an unshakeable dream to be the scientist who would
cure breast cancer. I miss her every day, especially now. And I know she’s looking down tonight and smiling.”
The final night of the Democratic National Convention served as both a celebration of Harris’s historic nomination and a pointed critique of the dangers posed by a potential second term for the twice impeached and 34 times convicted former President Donald Trump.
Congressman Jason Crow delivered a stark warning about Trump’s Project 2025, outlining its potential to compromise national security, alienate allies, and dismantle critical benefits for veterans.
“Real strength and security come from our people and our allies. Donald Trump’s Project 2025 would abandon our troops, our veterans, our allies, and our principles,” Crow emphasized, urging voters to choose Harris as the leader who will stand by America’s service members.
The evening also brought attention to the enduring scars of racial injustice as four members of the Central Park Five, introduced by the Rev. Al Sharpton, took the stage to recount their wrongful convictions and the role
By Sam P.K. Collins WI Staff Writer
Every August, members of the Black radical left spend the entire month raising awareness about the women and men of the Black Power Era who paid, and continue to pay, the ultimate sacrifice in the fight against racism, capitalism, fascism and imperialism.
This tradition, known as Black August, revives a call to action to free the Black political prisoners who are spending their twilight years in correctional facilities across the country.
Some of those prisoners, like Jamil Abdullah Al-Amin, have been locked away in the belly of the beast for decades due to what some organizers of the Millennial and Gen Z generations recognize as his power to organize the masses against atrocities
committed by the U.S. government.
“The system isolated Jamil Al-Amin and other political prisoners to break the lineage of the movement,” said Maria Fernandez, an organizer in the D.C. chapter of the Malcolm X Grassroots Movement (MXGM).
“These are elders suffering from medical neglect. They are not alone. The state has young people coming inside. We want to make those connections about how the state kills people and funnels them into the prison system.”
On Aug. 17, the 137th birth anniversary of Black nationalist and political prisoner Marcus Mosiah Garvey, Fernandez and other MXGM members will join Pan-African Community Action and the Black Alliance for Peace at the Black Workers and Wellness Center in Southeast for “Curbfest for Political Prisoners.”
This event counts among several “curbfests” taking place throughout the U.S. in recognition of Black political prisoners. Throughout much of the afternoon, people will converge on a portion of Martin Luther King, Jr. Avenue near Downtown Anacostia for free food, musical performances and films, and capoeira classes.
They will also have an opportunity to write letters to several Black political prisoners -- including Al-Amin.
Al-Amin, the 80-year-old human rights activist and Muslim cleric formerly known as H. Rap Brown, is currently serving a life sentence for the 2000 murder of a Fulton County, Georgia sheriff’s deputy. After a few years in a Georgia state prison, authorities transferred Al-Amin to a federal facility in 2007 and issued a gag order that prevented him from speaking with journalists and biographers.
After a stint in ADX Florence supermax prison in Florence, Colorado and a multiple myeloma diagnosis, Al-Amin became a resident of U.S.
Penitentiary, Tucson in 2018. That’s where he confers with supporters who are fighting on his behalf for a retrial.
During the latter part of the 1960s, before his first prison stint and conversion to Islam, Al-Amin became a target of the FBI’s Cointelpro program, along with Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr., Malcolm X, Elijah Muhammad, Kwame Ture, and several other organizers of that era. Though Fernadez initially learned about Al-Amin’s radicalization of the Student Nonviolent Coordinating Committee (SNCC), she said that she came to better appreciate him while organizing with MXGM comrades in Atlanta, where Al-Amin led a religious movement in the West End throughout the 1980s and 1990s.
As she and others continue to raise awareness about the campaign for Al-Amin’s release, and organize to free other Black political prisoners, including former Black Panther Kamau Sadiki, Fernandez said she remains resolute in ensuring that young people know about the figures who provided a blueprint for self-determination.
AL-AMIN Page 18
Project 2025 is Donald Trump and JD Vance’s plan to remake the federal government if they win. It would:
Use Civil Rights-era laws created to address discrimination to instead benefit white people – Axios, 4/1/24
Gut the Affordable Care Act, which will raise health care costs and threaten health care coverage for millions of Americans – AP News, 11/27/23
Cut Social Security and Medicare Americans have earned – Washington Post, 2/9/23
Ban abortion nationally – New York Times, 2/16/24
5During Black August, members of the Black radical left spend the entire month raising awareness about the women and men of the Black Power Era, and work to free the Black political prisoners such as Jamil Abdullah AlAmin, who has been incarcerated since 2002. (Courtesy Photo/Change.org)
“It’s important to note the impact that he’s had on particular movements, like… SNCC and his spiritual work on the West End [of Atlanta],” said Fernandez, who also served as a member of the committee that secured Dr. Mutulu Shakur’s 2022 release. “Before his last arrest, the state had decades of attacks [against Jamil Al Amin]. We have to make those connections to his work. We have so many lessons to learn.”
In 2000, Fulton County sheriff’s deputies Ricky Kinchen and Aldranon English visited Al-Amin’s home to execute an arrest warrant after Al-Amin didn't appear in court over charges he received during a traffic stop a year prior. Those charges, which included speeding, auto theft, and impersonating a police officer, stemmed from Al-Amin’s alleged possession of a stolen car for which he had the bill of sale, and the police officer’s discovery of an honorary police badge that John Jackson, Al-Amin’s comrade and the first Black mayor of White Hall, Alabama, gave him.
After Kinchen and English determined that Al-Amin’s home was empty, they drove away. As they pulled off, a black Mercedes passed them, heading toward the house. Police reports say that, upon seeing the Mercedes, Kinchen turned the patrol car around and pulled up on the vehicle in question.
Once English exited the patrol car and approached the Mercedes, he asked the driver to show their hands.
The driver then opened fire with a rifle. English returned fire while running between two cars. He was hit four times while Kinchen was shot with the rifle and a 9 mm handgun.
Kinchen succumbed to injuries a day later. English, who survived the shooting, later identified Al-Amin as the shooter.
The U.S. Marshals started their four-day manhunt of Al-Amin at the site of the shooting where they discovered a blood trail. When they found
Al-Amin in White Hall, Alabama, he was unwounded and wearing body armor.
While forensics scientists determined that the 9 mm handgun found at the site of Al-Amin’s arrest was used to shoot English and Kinchen, they didn’t find Al-Amin’s fingerprints on the weapon. Testing of the blood determined that it neither belonged to Al-Amin nor the two officers.
However, authorities later found Al-Amin’s black Mercedes with bullet holes.
On March 9, 2002, two years after the shootings and less than a year after the 9/11 attacks, a jury convicted Al-Amin of 13 charges, including Kinchen’s murder and the aggravated assault of English. Al-Amin’s supporters have since fought for his release, albeit with less than desirable results.
In 2004, the Supreme Court of Georgia upheld Al-Amin’s conviction in a unanimous ruling. In 2019, the 11th Circuit Court of Appeals rejected Al-Amin’s appeal for a retrial, even with requests that officials consider a confession made by Otis Jackson, a man who, two years before AlAmin’s conviction, told authorities that he committed the Fulton County shootings.
In 2020, the U.S. Supreme Court declined to hear an appeal from AlAmin.
Supporters say that the Innocence Project, an organization dedicated to proving wrongful convictions, took on Al-Amin’s case earlier this year. Through a Freedom of Information Act request, the Innocence Project has reportedly secured thousands of documents, most of which had been redacted.
Vanessa Potkin, the director of special litigation at the Innocence Project, didn’t return The Informer’s request for comment.
These days, Luqman Al-Sadiq counts among those who not only maintain regular contact with AlAmin through letters and phone calls, but raise awareness about Al-Amin and advocate for this release through the Imam Jamil Action Network.
Read more on
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n Color Copies
n Contracts & Vouchers
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n Fax & Scan n Programs n Postcards n Promotional Products
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n Tickets & Flyers n T-Shirts n Mugs & Glassware n Notary
5President Paul Kagame meets Chinese President Xi Jinping for bilateral talks at Village Urugwiro in Kigali, on July 22, 2018. China and Rwanda share similarities in governance philosophies and development process. (Courtesy Photo)
Reform and opening-up have been a crucial move for China to catch up with the times in great strides and make great achievements in economic and social development, The New Times, Rwanda’s largest daily newspaper reported on Aug. 25.
Over the past 46 years, along with the main theme of reform and opening-up, the Communist Party of China (CPC) has continuously been planning new strategies and proposing new policies to point the direction for China's economic and social development and modernization.
In 1978, the third Plenary Session of the 11th CPC Central Committee was convened, launching the reform and opening-up, and socialist modernization. In 2013, the Third Plenary Session of the 18th CPC Central Committee marked the beginning of a new journey of comprehensively deepening reform in the new era.
In 2022, the 20th National Congress of the CPC established the central task of building China into a great modern socialist country in all respects and achieving the Second Centenary Goal, realizing the great rejuvenation of the Chinese nation on all fronts through advancing Chinese modernization.
This year July, in order to implement the strategic plans made through the 20th National Congress, and turn the development blueprint into reality, the Third Plenary Session of the 20th CPC Central Committee adopted the “Resolution on Further Deepening Reform Comprehensively to Advance Chinese Modernization.”
In 2021, China built a moderately prosperous society in all aspects and thus achieved the First Centenary Goal. China also historically eradicated absolute poverty with 800 million people and stepped into a new era of economic and social development with new achievements.
In the past decade, China’s economy grew by an average annual rate of 6.1%, contributing to world economic growth more than 30% on average.
The domestic and international economic flows have scaled up commodity trade and recorded new highs. Residents' income has steadily increased.
The fundamentals of China's economy remain robust, and the general trend of high-quality development is still promising. WI
5The Anna Regina multi-purpose stadium plans to create new opportunities for the people of Guyana. Following recent decisions and funding, Guyana is continuing to emphasize the importance of sports to the country’s culture and economy. (Courtesy Photo)
In 2023, the Government of Guyana made investments to the tune of some $4.3 billion to the nation’s sport sector. This trend has continued well into 2024, with some major projects being slated for the sector while others can already be seen around the capital city, as well as in the hinterland, The Guyana Chronicle reported on Sunday, Aug. 25.
Vice President of Guyana, Dr. Bharrat Jagdeo, outlined just a few of the impactful ventures at a press conference last week during the National Toshao’s Conference. He explained that although not frequently highlighted, the government continues to invest in projects aimed at boosting the sport sector throughout the country.
“In sports, we have upgraded 65 grounds in Berbice of the 125. We spent 400 odd million dollars, and this year another $400 million has been awarded to expand,” he added. “If you go to New Amsterdam, you will see a major track being built there for track and field. In Linden, we just put down the track and lights with FIFA lights.”
Further emphasizing the importance of access to the facilities, Jagdeo said, “We are building a new stadium in Berbice that has already started. I can go on. In Anna Regina, a massive new stadium and ground is [sic] being built. I can list in Georgetown there [are] 34 grounds from Agricola to Cummings Lodge, and all of them are being upgraded now.”
In Guyana, sports are a major area of interest and investment for the government. For its 2024 budget, Guyana has allocated $4.6 billion towards sports development to elevate athletes’ performance and enhance sports infrastructure countrywide.
The government’s investment in the very important sector goes beyond investments in facilities, but also extends to sports education, training and the introduction of more skilled sports personnel and professionals; all done in an effort to develop the untapped potential of Guyana’s youth and athletes. WI
Louis Davis, Jr., State Director, AARP District of Columbia
I am not a preacher, and so this will not be a sermon. It is my testimony to what life has taught me about the importance of knowing and living my purpose in this one-time performance I get here on Earth. My purpose has been to help and serve others, to lead in advocacy for those who need someone on their side, and it is has been my way of life since I was a teenager on the South Side of Chicago. It has also included being a good son, brother, uncle, parent, and friend.
When I became a mature adult, life’s bumps, bruises, and “detour signs” taught me to be vigilant about my wellbeing and ever ready to quickly regroup after temporary setbacks. To fulfill my purpose, I had to be here. Fulfilling my purpose continues to depend on me owning my steps and decisions that, while not guaranteeing my time on stage will go on, surely tilts the odds more in my favor. I must be willing to do the work to attain and then sustain good mental, physical, and spiritual health. I must strive to live well! If I am to be of any good to anyone, I must first take care of my mind, body, and soul.
My life has been given back to me many times. As a Black child I had to first survive being born, then I survived being electrocuted at age 18 months when my
5
Jr., State Director, AARP District of Columbia
rascal-self bit into a live-wire, then being nearly shot while a well-trained Chicago police officer calmly asked me to not reach for my wallet as his handgun was inches from my nose, then being nearly shot again but this time by three poorly-trained soldiers with AR-15’s while I was working in Monrovia, Liberia in 1997, and then there were those three bouts of Atrial Fibrillation. And still I rise. My doctors tell me, I am in better health and shape today than most men ten years my junior. I thank my God each morning I awake, and I then work on myself daily. I am far from perfect, but I keep at it!
I am sharing this slice of my story with any Black men reading this to stress that to be there for your spouse, your life partner, your child or grandchildren, your Ride or Die’s, you must first be here, well, and able.
So please, if you won’t do it for yourself, then do it for them…Know Your Numbers. See a primary physician at least once a year and be honest with the doc when you do. Eat to live, and not the other way around. To stay fit inside and outside, keep it moving, and stay engaged with the things that are both good to and for you.
As Black men, the odds are often stacked against us, but we also hold some aces in our hands. We can get in front of the statistics and take better control of our health. Heart disease, strokes, colon cancer, prostate cancer are largely preventable, and usually survivable when detected EARLY.
If you are reading this, then you are still on stage, your performance not cancelled. Don’t let down the people who care about you and who are here to see you shine on stage. Take charge today.
Scan the QR code and share your own testimony.
People today can spend nearly half their lives over the age of 50. That’s a lot of living. So, it helps to have a wise friend and fierce defender like AARP in your community.
Find us at aarp.org/dc.
By Lindiwe Vilakazi WI Health Reporter
The Collaboration for Equitable Health, in alliance with the Black Nurses Rock DMV Chapter, hosted the Back-to-School Wellness Expo in Southeast, D.C., to provide health related resources to prepare Ward 8 residents for an official return to classrooms across the District.
Held at the Washington View apart-
ments, the community event offered residents education on nutrition and physical activity, comprehensive health screenings, referrals for continued care, and immunizations. In addition, attendees had free access to haircuts from local barbers, henna tattoos, face painting, free food, giveaways, and more.
“We are grateful to the Washington View community and staff for helping us put on Saturday’s Back-to-School Expo, bringing essential health resourc-
5Nurses Rock DMV Chapter conduct health screenings for the Ward 8 community during their Back-to-School Wellness Expo at the Washington View apartments in Southeast, D.C. (Courtesy Photo/American Diabetes Association)
es to residents,” said Raisa Johnson, managing director of Resident Services at National Housing Trust, another partnering organization for the expo. “Our goal is to ensure every child starts the school year healthy and prepared, and we’re thankful to all the partners and volunteers who made this possible.”
The Collaboration for Equitable Health, launched in 2022, is a four-year partnership between leading health or-
African American community, District residents east of the Anacostia River are particularly battling with issues of being overweight. In Washington, D.C., the highest obesity prevalence of residents living with obesity is 34% residing in ZIP codes 20019, 20020, and 20032 in comparison to 23.9% throughout the rest of the District.
Obesity is a significant risk factor for type 2 diabetes, the most common and expensive chronic condition in the country. According to the American Diabetes Association’s The Burden of Diabetes in District of Columbia (DC) report:“Approximately 42,900 adults in D.C., or 7.8% of the adult population, have diagnosed diabetes. Every year, an estimated 3,300 adults in D.C. are diagnosed with diabetes.”
ganizations including the American Diabetes Association, American Heart Association, American Cancer Society, and the University of Michigan School of Public Health. The collective, supported by Bank of America, is working in tandem with Black Nurses Rock DMV Chapter to address chronic diseases in D.C. by bringing equitable resources to East of the River residents.
While the expo served as an excellent resource to connect with residents in need, the event was only a segment of a 12-month program, led by Black Nurses Rock DMV, designed to connect nurses of color with underserved community members in Ward 8.
When examining health inequities in D.C., Wards 7 and 8 represent some of the greatest disparities related to chronic illnesses throughout the city.
For instance, although DC Health’s District of Columbia Cancer Control Plan 2022-2026 reports “cancer is the second leading cause of death in the District of Columbia and significantly impacts the social and economic well-being of the community,” Ward 8 residents are particularly feeling the sting.
From 2014-2018, Ward 8 reported the highest cancer incidence rate in D.C. at 453 cases per 100,000, with the lowest incidence recorded in Ward 3, where 379 new cases were diagnosed per 100,000 individuals during the same period, according to DC Vital Records 2022.
Further, cancer mortality rates also ranked highest in Ward 8 and lowest in Ward 3 between the same 2014-2018 period.
In addition, while challenges surrounding obesity continue to affect the
The statistics are even more alarming in neighborhoods East of the Anacostia River (Wards 7 and 8), as records from 2019 suggested that 13.4 % of Ward 7 residents, and 19.7 % of Ward 8 residents have diabetes, being the highest rates citywide.
Ward 8 residents also are fighting further health inequities such as lack of mental health services and access to health care centers as well as food deserts.
Roughly 90% of residents in much of Wards 7 and 8 have low access to a full-service supermarkets providing fresh and organic food choices (compared to 17% nationwide), which
The innovative network of health leaders aim to change these troubling health outcomes in the city’s most underserved neighborhoods.
“Achieving health equity starts with trust, and that trust isn’t built overnight. Black Nurses Rock is committed to prevention, health education, and long-term wellness. We took one step closer to that today and are grateful to the ADA for their support,” said Perina Gains, the president and CEO of Black Nurses Rock DMV Chapter.
The health expo event is one of several community initiatives coming down the pike that will assist in serving District families with the education, tools, and support that they need to maintain a healthy and sustainable lifestyle.
“This weekend’s back-to-school expo is yet another example of the power of community in addressing health inequities. We were thrilled to support Black Nurses Rock and will continue to meet people where they live as we work towards a healthier Ward 8,” Malaika Hill, ADA director of Health Equity and Community Impact, said in a statement.
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“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
By Ashleigh Fields WI Contributing Writer
For many, this year’s Democratic National Convention looked extremely different than past events. Those attending the caucus meetings, press
briefings and daily activities didn’t see traditional print outs and pamphlets but QR codes instead. This decision was a part of a larger goal to create the most sustainable convention in the country’s history.
“We have to make the climate issues
real for every single person in America. They have to see that fighting for the climate is as important as fighting for a dignified wage, as important as retirement, as important as fighting for democracy,” Randi Weingarten, president of the American Federation of Teachers argued.
Throughout the four day convention hosted between Chicago’s United Center and McCormick Place, the Democratic National Convention planning committee collected compost, posted signage to increase recycling and also pushed for a new concept called carbon insetting which helps mitigate toxic emissions by promoting sustainability efforts.
“Just as the Harris-Walz ticket and the Democratic Party are dedicated to protecting the environment, we showed this same commitment at the
convention — before, during, and after this historic event,” Emily Soong, Democratic National Convention Committee Press Secretary told the Informer. “We worked with our sustainability advisors on a comprehensive and detailed approach to sustainability that gave back to the local community, combatted climate change, and set the bar for future conventions.”
While some loved the environmental endeavor others didn’t think it was the most practical.
“I may be behind the times. I thought with the big money raised and available they could have given out a printed program for each of the four days when finalized to the onsite delegates for press at night and press onsite at the morning briefing,” said Robert Weiner, a long-time convention volunteer and media organizer since 1972.
The decision to remove paper and other items from the convention involved BRIGHT BEAT, a sustainable project management agency which specializes in zero waste through diversion. The DNC also chose to use clean energy from ComEd, a regional utility company to power convention related affairs among many others.
The organizing team also encouraged visitors to make donations to community groups like Growing Home, which specializes in flipping urban lots into thriving farms through local residents and volunteers. Those hired often have employment barriers but receive payed job force training that aims to offset poverty in neighborhoods on the South side of Chicago.
Growing Home is currently the only USDA-certified high-production urban farm in Chicago and has grown 35,000 pounds of organic produce.
Janelle St. John, the Executive Director for Growing Home said participating in large scale events like the Democratic National Convention are essential to solving the climate crisis.
“We have limited resources and knowing how we can best utilize those resources is important,” St. John told the Informer. “We have to teach our kids not just to prepare for today but also prepare for the future of our Earth.”
While serving as a vendor at the convention’s expo, Growing Home provided information to guests and encouraged them to travel to different areas outside of downtown where most events were held.
St. John shared, “Chicago is unfortunately very segregated so you have to step out of your comfort zone if you really want to experience it.”
As over 50,000 people traveled to Chicago’s West Side, a working class
5 Democratic U.S. Rep. Lisa Blunt Rochester speaks at the Democratic National Convention on Aug. 21. Using QR codes, emails and other electronic forms of communication, this year’s Democratic National Convention aimed to be the most sustainable convention in the country’s history. (Earl Gibson/The Washington Informer)
community, hundreds helped fund the Growing Home organization which provides 25 hours per week of paid onthe-job experience despite people’s history involving criminal records, medical needs, child-care and housing to put people on the path to self-sufficiency. Donations were promoted by the Travel Carbon Inset Initiative and spanned from $77 in honor of Chicago’s 77 neighborhoods, $47 to supply 5 lbs. of fresh produce for a local family in need and $24 to purchase one student toolkit for Growing Home’s Training Program.
Elected officials believe it will take intense intentionality to spur a national wave of change during the 2024 election and far beyond.
“We are fired up because we know what’s at stake. We are living in a moment and a time where the existential crises of our climate and the injustices that have been perpetuated in our environment particularly for Black folk, poor white folk, indigenous communities and rural communities that have been for too often and too long been overlooked and dismissed,” Tennessee Representative Justin Pearson (D) said. He encouraged others to unite in combating the negative effects of climate change and environmental injustice.
“If we go into those communities knowing that transformation is necessary through community power and if we use our power and our social location to join forces together we disrupt a status quo that hurts and harms the most marginalized.” WI
By Shevry Lassiter
Mosquito season is not over. In fact, the season started in May and depending on the weather in the District of Columbia region, could last until October.
Warm weather means a lengthy mosquito season. Mosquito-borne illnesses are back in the news, with reports of an increase in West Nile virus infections on the rise.
The little annoying insects are less likely to sting in the middle of the day when the sun is at its peak and more likely to bite right before dusk. To avoid mosquito bites, the use of repellents is suggested along with clothing that covers the entire body – arms and legs.
According to healthline.com, mosquitoes appear to be attracted to blood type O, body odor, heat, and dark clothing. Repellents marked approved by the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) include the active ingredient DEET.
Some of the ways to prevent mosquito bites are to avoid dark clothing, make sure there are no tears in windows and door screens. Use mosquito netting and eliminate standing water. Contaminated river water also breeds mosquitoes.
There are several plants that can be grown in a garden to ward off mosquitoes. Some of the plants depicted here are lavender, lemon balm, lemon thyme and rosemary. WI
You have your dream home in mind, and we have the tools and expertise to guide you on your path to homeownership. At City National,® we offer a variety of mortgage options and a dedicated team to streamline your homebuying process.
Let us help you turn the key to your first home or your next home.
By Richard Elliott WI Contributing Writer
Major changes are being implemented in Prince George’s County Public Schools (PGCPS) as the school year gears up.
Previously, there were 13 different bell times across the county’s school system and students reported buses arriving late or never coming at all.
To address these problems, there
will now be three standardized school start times: 7:30 a.m., 8:30 a.m., and 9:30 a.m.
Further, many bus stops will be moved or consolidated and parents are being requested to opt-out of bus routes if students intend to walk or be driven to school. School officials also recommend that parents download the StopFinder app to better track the whereabouts of the bus.
Board Member Shayla Adams-Stafford, who advocated for a PGCPS transportation audit last year, is asking parents to be patient with implementing these changes.
“The opt-out allows us to appro-
5 After complaints about school buses arriving late or never coming at all, many bus stops will be moved or consolidated, and parents are being asked to opt-out of bus routes if students intend to walk or be driven to school. (WI File Photo/Robert R. Roberts)
student information system will stop the process to ensure data quality and accuracy,” Thornton said. “When this happens, PGCPS staff merge the duplicate records and release the process to continue.”
The Washington Informer previously covered the adjustment to school start times; read more here.
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believe that a focus on equity and financial and medical assistance will open more doors of opportunity for the rising generation of scholars.
During the National Society of High School Scholars’ (NSHSS) Day in National Harbor, several students gave their opinions of what community leaders can do to improve paths to opportunity for youth.
Kenyon Munoz from Ashburn, Virginia, who wants to study environmental conservation, and Aaron George from Austin, Texas both
“Our leaders should focus more on equity and giving equal opportunities, which leads to equality,” said Munoz. “We also need financial assistance. Many scholarships have fees. My high school waived scholarship fees.”
Rohan Carlos Hartigan of San Francisco wants to go to Stanford University to study in the institution’s new Department of African Studies, and said he would particularly like to learn more about Liberia. He is thankful for NSHSS’ scholarships and diverse peer group.
“The key is giving students access to the most important problems and showing paths to address them,” Rohan told The Informer. “Take the lessons and apply them to your life.”
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In his inaugural address on January 20, 1961, President John F. Kennedy, then 43, declared a momentous shift in American leadership.
“Let the word go forth from this time and place to friend and foe alike, that the torch has been passed to a new generation of Americans,” he said, referring to the passing of America's leadership and responsibility from the previous generation of United States citizens to a new, younger generation.
Kennedy succeeded President Dwight D. Eisenhower, 70, and narrowly defeated Vice President Richard M. Nixon, 48, to win the White House in November 1960.
The Democratic National Convention last week in Chicago, Illinois, was a vibrant and hopeful event, filled with excitement and optimism.
Despite the numerous accomplishments of the Biden-Harris Administration—changing the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on Americans, rebuilding our infrastructure, historic student debt relief for middle and working-class families, and the confirmation of Justice Ketanji Brown Jackson to the U.S. Supreme Court, to name a few—voters were ready for a change.
Indeed, an overwhelming majority of voters in the Democratic and Republican parties were not pleased with the November 5, 2024, choices, once again, of two old white men to lead the
nation, President Joe Biden and former President Donald J. Trump.
For Democrats, as well as countless Republicans, Independents, and undecided voters, the sense of hopelessness and dread, fear, and acceptance of the possibility of the twice-impeached, 34time convicted felon returning to office was suddenly replaced with a renewed sense of hope when Biden dropped out of the race on July 21 and immediately endorsed Vice President Kamala Harris to succeed him.
By doing so, despite his preference to remain in the race, Biden, 82, in yet another selfless act of public service in a career that has spanned over 50 years as a senator, vice president, and president, put his country first. He did what was best for the Democratic Party, and passed the torch to Harris, 59, and a “new generation of Americans.”
Indeed, in his remarks to the Democratic party faithful on the convention's opening night, the president acknowledged: “I gave my best to you. For 50 years, like many of you, I’ve given my heart and soul to our nation. I’ve either been the: too young to be in the Senate because I wasn’t 30 yet and too old to stay as president.”
Hillary Rodham Clinton, 76, whose distinguished public service career includes serving as First Lady, a member of the U.S. Senate, and U.S. Secretary of State, also spoke in Chicago, symbolically passing the torch of public service
to a “new generation of Americans.”
Clinton was the only woman to clinch a major party nomination for president until late last Thursday evening, Aug. 22.
She praised President Biden for being a “true patriot” and for his years of public service, then described “a new chapter in America’s story” with Harris running and becoming the 47th president of the United States.
It’s unlikely that when President Kennedy spoke of a “new generation of Americans” 63 years ago, he envisioned U.S. Rep. Shirley P. Chisholm, the Rev. Jesse Jackson, the Rev. Al Sharpton, President Barack H. Obama, Secretary Clinton, or Vice President Harris running for the presidency, much less sitting behind the Resolute Desk in the Oval Office as Commander-In-Chief.
However, he could, no doubt, relate to a then San Francisco District Attorney Harris when she stood before judges in countless courtrooms declaring five words: “Kamala Harris, for the people.”
Each of us - “the people” - must do our part to ensure that Harris stands on the steps of the West Front of the U.S. Capitol on January 20, 2025, raises her right hand, places her left on the Bible, and recites the 35-word oath as the next president of the United States-- the first woman, and one of Black and South Asian descent.
“Kamala Harris, for the people.” WI
One of the greatest joys and challenges that any person can have is being a parent – and that includes those who serve as surrogates, mentors and adopted parents.
As school bells ring and the fall semester begins for youth throughout the DMV region, both parents and children are understandably excited, and a little anxious as well.
In many ways, being a parent is tantamount to finding oneself caught in a pool of quicksand. That’s because parents are routinely locked in that two-step shuffle of reminiscing about the past while attempting to anticipate the future, all the while hoping to make the best decisions for their families and their children. It doesn’t matter if this fall marks your child’s first year of school and
you’re wondering if you can leave them with their kindergarten teacher without shedding tears, or if you’re the parent of a senior in high school who has perfected the art of getting on your “last nerve,” the job of parenting has become increasingly complex.
One contributing factor to this complexity is the rapid pace at which technology has advanced.
With many of today’s gizmos growing obsolete overnight, the norms and practices long associated with work, play, socializing and, lest we forget, raising children, have undergone such seismic cultural shifts that the map parents of the past once followed fails to conform to today’s ever-changing topography.
Sure, it’s hard being a parent – a
good parent. But for the record, it’s always been that way. And to make matters worse, as parents look out onto the vista– no matter where they live or what their ethnicity may be— they realize that they, and their children, are facing a whole new world.
It’s hard enough for adults to navigate today’s storm-tossed seas while contending with a pandemic that refuses to go away and an economic downturn that has resulted in unbelievably high prices for our most basic needs. But when one factors in the escalation of partisan politics that has led to events like the January 6, 2021, insurrection on the U.S. Capitol, and has fractured America in ways not seen since the Civil War, for those with chil-
The political season is in full swing, and it’s becoming a task to keep up with the ever-changing political landscape, both locally and nationally. I look forward to my copy of the Washington Informer each week, which keeps me up to speed without making my head spin. Appreciate y’all!
Melinda Palmer Washington, D.C.
Shout out to the brother Joseph Knight, the new owner of the IHOP in Congress Heights! I’m hopeful that under his leadership, the restaurant will become a desirable attraction as one of the few sit-down eateries in Ward 8. A place for people to eat and work is great for the community.
Carl Crawford Washington, D.C.
dren, the stakes are even higher.
So, what can parents do to help their children master their coursework in school and enjoy the freedoms of youth without being consumed by the harsh realities of the world?
First, parents might try to set aside quality time each day, shut off the technological gadgets on which we have all come to so heavily rely, and talk to your children – and we don’t mean by engaging in backand-forth conversations via text messaging. Forgo the new technology and go old school. Look them in their eyes and ask how their day was. Ask them to share their more eventful encounters from the day. Ask them to show you what lessons they learned
and what projects they may have for homework. And allow them to share their disappointments, successes and failures without fear of judgment and without you quickly dishing out your patent words of advice.
Through it all, remain quiet and be sure to listen with care and noticeable concern. Listen, talk, and then listen some more to your children.
Depending on their age, children may no longer need or benefit from bedtime stories but they still need to know that someone cares enough about them to listen to them, to value how they feel and to make sure they’re safely tucked in bed – even if they won’t admit it. WI
the last words were spoken, people hung out for more than an hour, full of praise for President Biden and the other speakers.
The big news of this year's Democratic National Convention is, of course, the nomination of Kamala Harris and the drama surrounding her nomination. The kinetic energy of the nomination and the convention are part of the story. From the convention floor on Aug. 19, I can testify to the energy, the happiness, the joy from those assembled. After
The surprise visit by Vice President Harris (it wasn't on the official agenda) wowed the crowd, but there were lots of wow moments on the exuberant first night of this historic convention. Rousing words from congressional representatives including James Clyburn (N.C.), Jamie Raskin (Md.) and Jasmine Crockett (Texas), and Sens. Raphael Warnock (Ga.) and
Chris Coons (Del.) heaped praised on both President Biden and Vice President Harris. But even before Convention Chair Minyon opened the convention, some on-the-floor pre-convention activities were meaningful and historic.
Rev. Jesse Louis Jackson was lifted and celebrated on the convention floor. The wheelchair-bound civil rights leader and former presidential candidate whose once-rousing rhetoric energized the Democratic Party in 1984 was present to receive his flowers from his many
Millions of Americans are increasingly finding themselves at the mercy of commercial insurance companies that are arbitrarily denying their claims. These insurance giants, rejecting claim after claim without valid reasons, are forcing American patients to shoulder significant financial and emotional burdens, in addition to
their serious health issues. Once designed to serve the best interests of patients, some of these companies have turned their backs on the ones they were meant to protect.
A recent analysis by the Kaiser Family Foundation reveals that, on average, insurance companies deny 1 in 5 claims. Some insurers reject as much as 49%, with one shocking example rejecting 80% of claims.
Cigna, a major health insurer with 20 million customers and $195 billion in revenue last year, was caught
People can be pleasantly unpredictable at times, so our politics is equally unpredictable. As a U.S. senator, Kamala Harris was seen as a rising star and viewed as the possible future of the Democratic Party. In January 2019, Harris launched her first presidential bid before a crowd of 20,000 supporters in Oakland, California.
After 310 days of campaigning, she dropped out of the race while polling at 4%.
Compare that to 2024, where President Biden makes an unpredictable move by dropping out of the race for reelection. He then endorses his vice president to be the party's presidential nominee. Just 32 days after Biden stepped aside, Vice President Kamala Harris formally accepted the Democratic nomination in Chicago.
Once again, she is seen as the
friends and admires in the party. The Monday celebration came on the heels of a Sunday evening celebration at the Rainbow PUSH headquarters on Chicago's South Side where Rev. Jackson's storied history was reviewed and revered by friends and colleagues like Congresswoman Maxine Waters (Calif.), Sen. Bernie Sanders (Vt.), Rev. Al Sharpton and others. Hosted by the Nation magazine's John Nicols, the two-hour celebration was a reminder of Rev. Jackson's political history.
Rev. Jackson's impact on the Democratic Party is undeniable. First, he challenged the status quo by running for President without having been elected to political office. People, including Black elected public officials actively discouraged him and even ridiculed his attempt. He ran anyway and based on the number of electoral votes he amassed, became a powerful influence in the Democratic Party. From that perch, he was entitled to
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denying claims without even reviewing patients' files.
The issue is not limited to traditional insurance plans. Medicare Advantage plans, designed to offer more choices and comprehensive benefits, now cover more than half of all Medicare beneficiaries. Unfortunately, these plans are also plagued by an overwhelming number of prior authorization requirements and coverage denials. Each year, more than 1.5 million Medicare Advantage prior authorizations are improperly denied, according to KFF,
and that number is only growing with every coming year.
The inspector general for the Department of Health and Human Services documented nearly 640,000 denials in 2019, with that number skyrocketing to 2 million in 2021 alone. For example, UnitedHealthcare, the nation's largest health insurer with over 50 million customers and the largest share of Medicare Advantage enrollment, denies at least 2 million Medicare Advantage prior authorization claims annually. This is a very alarming number con-
sidering the critical role these types of claims play in ensuring the elderly receive the proper care they deserve. Last year, unfortunately, UnitedHealthcare was sued for using an artificial intelligence algorithm to wrongfully deny care to elderly patients under Medicare Advantage plans. The algorithm, known to have a 90% error rate, led to patients being prematurely discharged from care facilities, disrupting their lives and putting their health in jeopardy.
future of the Democratic Party. Donald Trump and the Republicans definitely did not expect a reenergized Democratic Party after the struggling performance by Joe Biden in the presidential debate. Neither did most Democrats. History was made with Harris becoming the first woman of Black and South Asian heritage to accept the party's nomination. On the night of Harris' acceptance speech, many women delegates wore white to honor the suffrage movement, the movement
that culminated with American women securing the right to vote in 1920.
It's time for America to prepare for a female president and commander in chief. We are not voting for Kamala Harris just because she is Black or a woman. We are voting for her because, unlike her 2019 campaign, she is now electable. We are voting for her because she is the best candidate to bring optimism, inclusion, bipartisanship, enthusiasm, hope, joy, inspiration, unity, pa-
triotism and energy to a nation that has grown weary of the dark MAGA movement. We are voting for Harris because she represents a fresh generational shift for a nation looking for "new blood" and fresh ideas.
The fact that Harris is Black and a woman is a bonus because her victory in November will also represent a resounding victory in the nation's culture wars. "From the courthouse to the White House,"
ics, Republicans, Democrats, and Independents.
During the past week, many of us were glued to our televisions. The National Democratic Convention was going on in Chicago. There was a lot of laughter. There were a lot of tears — but they weren't sad tears. They were happy tears coming from men and from women. Some were from Blacks, Whites, Asians, Indians, Hispan-
Everything there was about Kamala Harris and Tim Walz! I could end this article with those two names, but there is a lot more to tell. Like many, I think I heard lots of speeches telling us who these two people really are and why they should become our president and next vice president.
I just couldn't get enough of the joy I was witnessing. Speaker after speaker were showing their love, pride, respect, happiness and their
anticipation about what would happen next. Yes we cried a lot. We laughed a lot.
We Black women thought such a day would never come, but there it was! We cried as we remembered what our ancestors went through to get us to this day — and we remembered what our dads went through, too, but as Malcolm said, Black women still are the most disrespected women in the world — and one of us is about to become president of the United States of America! It's been a long
Just as Fannie Lou Hamer's historic appearance before the credentials committee at the 1964 Democratic National Convention paved the way for history being made right now, this moment has been infused by the groundbreaking legacy of the eternally unbought, unbossed U.S. Representative Shirley Chisholm. Rep. Chisholm, the Brooklyn-born
The modern civil rights movement hit a new peak last week in Illinois. It marked the movement coming full circle, in a way, back to the state of its birth more than a century ago.
Illinois is the unsung "alpha and omega" of the movement.
It was the 1908 Springfield Race Riot that sparked the creation of
daughter of immigrants from Barbados and Guyana, was honored multiple times during this year's Democratic National Convention for her roles as the first Black woman elected to Congress in 1968 and, in 1972, the first Black American to seek a major party presidential nomination and first woman to seek the Democratic Party's presidential nomination. She fearlessly blazed the trail for more than a half-century of leaders from both major parties who have come after her. This week many people celebrated the direct line of descent from
Rep. Shirley Chisholm to Vice President Kamala Harris, the first woman elected vice president of the United States, who has now officially become the first Black and South Asian woman named a major party presidential nominee.
In her January 1972 speech announcing her candidacy for the Democratic nomination for president, Rep. Chisholm said: "I am not the candidate of Black America, although I am Black and proud. I am not the candidate of the women's movement of this country, although I am a wom-
time coming but it's so close now we can feel it!
Each speaker told us a bit more than we already knew about Kamala and why she is destined to become our next president. Speaker after speaker told us about how she has always fought for others who could not speak for themselves. We were even told about the scar she still carries from protecting a little girl when she was a child.
We laughed and we cried because we were happy about be-
ing so near to having a twofer. Barack Obama was our first Black brother, but we are about to have our first Black sister and the first woman, period! Michelle Obama had already reminded Trump that the job he is seeking just might be one of those Black jobs he's been talking about!
President Joe Biden, Democrats, independents and even a good number of Republicans gave us a respectful number of reasons why
an and I'm equally proud of that. … I am the candidate of the people of America. And my presence before you, now, symbolizes a new era in American political history." She stood firm in her belief that our nation was ready for change. As she said, "I believe we are intelligent enough to recognize the talent, energy, and dedication which all Americans, including women and minorities, have to offer."
And she told the nation she believed it was time "to open our society to the energies and abilities of countless new kinds of groups of Americans" — she
included women, Black and brown Americans, Native Americans, Asian Americans, and young people — "so that they can develop their own full potential and thereby participate equally and enthusiastically in building a strong and just society, rich in its diversity and noble in its quality of life."
At the end of that speech she said: "We Americans are all fellow countrymen, one day confronting the judgment of history in our country.
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the NAACP. That marked the beginning of what would become the modern civil rights movement that evolved through the 1950s and 60s and is still evolving today.
And last week, Illinois hosted the nomination by one of America's major parties of a candidate for president who has broken barriers her entire career … who comes from a family of bold civil rights activists … who could be our first woman president, our first president of Asian descent, and only our second Black president.
If Springfield was the civil rights movement's "alpha," then this year's Democratic National Convention in Chicago and Kamala Harris' campaign are, to date, its "omega." Barely more than a month ago nobody knew this was going to be Harris' convention. Yet the history of the civil rights movement makes poetry of the fact she accepted her party's nomination in Illinois.
The city of Chicago itself has played a crucial role in this history. In the wake of the Springfield Riot, the anti-lynching crusader and Chi-
cagoan Ida B. Wells-Barnett was a leading national voice against that racial violence and one of the original cofounders, six months later, of the NAACP. And Chicago played host to a key civil rights moment featuring another NAACP cofounder, W.E.B. Du Bois.
In 1929, it was where Du Bois dispatched white supremacist Lothrop Stoddard's toxic eugenics claptrap, arguing for racial equality in what was billed at the time as "one of the greatest debates ever held." It is the home of Mayor Harold
Washington and Jesse Jackson. Reverend Jackson's presidential campaigns offered me one of my own first experiences in political organizing. I was captivated by his campaigns and led my county's arm of Youth for Jackson when I was 14. Those Black leaders' groundbreaking campaigns helped create a tailwind for Black candidates across the country to make history in the 1980s. Doug Wilder became the first African American elected state-
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WASHINGTON INFORMER WEEKEND CHECKLIST
WASHINGTON INFORMER'S
By Jada Ingleton
WI Comcast Digital Equity Fellow
Check out a handful of the many events happening in the DMV this weekend.
To keep up with all the fun, don’t forget to check out the Washington Informer Calendar; and remember, there’s always something happening in the DMV to keep your spirit and social life lit.
THURSDAY, AUG. 29
Mamma Mia (Touring)
1:30 p.m. | $51.75+
Kennedy Center, 2700 F St NW, Washington, D.C., 20566
A mother, a daughter, three possible dads, and a trip down the aisle you’ll never forget!
Set on a Greek island paradise where the sun always shines, a tale of love, friendship, and identity is beautifully told through the timeless hits of ABBA. On the eve of her wedding, a daughter’s quest to discover the father she’s never known brings three men from her mother’s past back to the island they last visited decades ago. “MAMMA MIA!” is the ultimate feelgood show.
5Founded by Howard University alumni, Hoop For All has donated over $25,000 towards patient assistance and scholarships since 2012. The organization, which will host the Hoop for Hope Basketball Tournament on Aug. 31, has housed over 20 initiatives that have increased access to health education tools and resources to over 5,000 D.C. residents. (Courtesy Photo/Hoop for All)
Jordin Sparks: No Restrictions Live & Intimate
6:30 p.m. | $40.00
The Atlantis, 2047 9th St NW, Washington, D.C., 20001
Grammy-nominated, multi- platinum singer Jordin Sparks burst into the spotlight in 2007 when she was
named the youngest contestant to win American Idol at age 17. Since then, she has become a household name, releasing catchy love songs like “No Air” and “Tattoo” that showcase her powerful vocals and upbeat attitude.
Join Sparks as she performs her most recent project and fifth album, “Live Restrictions.”
This event is general admission only.
FRIDAY, AUG. 30
Black Menswear Flashmob Weekend DC
9 a.m. | Free with registration Anacostia Arts Center, 1231 Marion Barry Ave SE, Washington, D.C., 20020
Calling all gentlemen of the African Diaspora who are interested in changing the narrative of Black culture.
Similar to Frederick Douglass’ battle against racist imagery, The Black Menswear FlashMob series is a traveling collective that brings Black men together, suited and booted, to network, share ideas and create culture-shifting viral content.
This two-day event kicks off Friday with Black Men’s Health Day, and serves as a great networking opportunity that has produced mentorship groups, business partnerships, and increased clientele for entrepreneurs.
SATURDAY, AUG. 31
Hoop for Hope Basketball Tournament
1 p.m. | Free Banneker Recreation Center, 2500 Georgia Ave NW, Washington, D.C., 20001
The Hoop For All Foundation, a D.C.-based nonprofit increasing access to healthcare resources and education in underserved communities through sports programming, is hosting its 12th annual Hoop for Hope Basketball Tournament at Banneker Recreation Center.
During the tournament, the foundation will present a check to an individual battling cancer, offering both financial support and a message of solidarity in their fight against the disease.
The event is free and includes threepoint contests, raffle prizes, vendors, and live halftime performances.
2024 NLLHOF
East-West Vintage Baseball Game
10 a.m. - 6 p.m.|
Free with registration
Prince George’s Stadium, 4101 Robert S. Crain Hwy, Bowie, MD 20716
The rescheduled 2024 East-West Vintage Baseball Game will officially take place on Sunday, Sept. 1 at the iconic Prince George’s Stadium in Bowie, Maryland.
This event 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.
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JACOB COLLIER•SAMARA JOY•DNICE•STANLEY CLARKE N
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 ALLSTARS 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
Join the Smithsonian’s Anacostia Community Museum on Sept. 19
Since its founding in 1967, the Smithsonian’s Anacostia Community Museum has been powered by the people and stories of the Washington, D.C., region. In celebration of the Museum’s 57th anniversary, the museum is hosting its annual “A Night at the Museum” on Thursday September 19 from 7-10 p.m.
Embracing our legacy of preserving the community stories of Washington DC, this year we are pulling a page from the past and hosting a 90's themed party. Guests will enjoy throwback vibes by Farrah Flosscett and be entertained by local breakdancers. Bar service provided by Sugar Rim and small bites will be available. Plus, Penny Candy to bring home the nostalgia! This celebration is free, but is a 21+ occasion.
Guests of the event will also have a chance to experience ACM’s current exhibition: A Bold and Beautiful Vision: A Century of Black Arts Education in Washington, DC, 1900-2000. This exhibition traces the story of the teachers and students who made Washington, DC a truly unparalleled center for Black arts education. Featuring original artworks, rare video footage, and awe-inspiring artistic artifacts, like Alma Thomas’s paintbrushes and watercolor paint set, original Elizabeth Catlett prints that once hung in the halls of her Washington high school, and Sam Gilliam artwork from the period when he was teaching at McKinley Technical High School. Join us to experience the artwork and hear the voices of the African American artist-educators who enriched the lives of many generations of Washington’s young people and who— along with their students—produced work admired by audiences across the globe.
Be sure to visit our website at anacostia.si.edu to RSVP for this event. This celebration is a 21+ occasion.
We hope you will come celebrate “A Night at the Museum” with us!
A Night at the Museum: Celebrating 57 Years of Community Stories
Smithsonian’s Anacostia Community Museum 1901 Fort Place, SE, Washington, DC 20020
Thursday, Sept. 19, 2024 | 7-10pm | 21+ only | registration recommended | free | anacostia.si.edu
Rios. (Courtesy photo/DC Jazz Festival)
By Brenda C. Siler WI Contributing Writer
This year’s 20th Anniversary DC JazzFest will be a sweet return for New Jazz Underground, the winning band from last year’s 2023 DCJazzPrix. New Jazz Underground includes Juilliard classmates saxophonist Abdias Armenteros, bassist Sebastian Rios, and drummer TJ Reddick.
As last year’s DC JazzPrix winning band, the group received a $15,000 grand prize, customized business development and career impact services, publicity, and a yearlong association with DC JazzFest programming, including the annual celebration, which runs from Aug. 28 to Sept. 1 throughout the District.
Rios said winning the competition has been fantastic for the band.
“With the competition money, we could record an album at Sear Sound, one of the oldest and best-known independent recording studios in New York. That album will come out next year,” Rios said. “To be validated by DC JazzFest, a festival of their stature says, okay, you guys are doing something. It means a lot to young artists like us… Getting any type of leverage is difficult. It helps to have that competition win on our resume.”
New Jazz Underground performs the 20th Anniversary DC JazzFest on Sunday Sept. 1, at the Transit Pier on The Wharf. WI @bcscomm
HARRIS from Page 16
Trump played in their suffering.
“He spent $85,000 on a full-page ad in the New York Times calling for our execution. We were innocent kids. But we served a total of 41 years in prison,” said Korey Wise. Yusef Salaam, now a New York City council member, added, “45 wanted us unalive. That man thinks that hate is the animating force in America. It is not.”
Sen. Elizabeth Warren (D-Mass.) also addressed the convention, delivering a scathing critique of Trump’s economic record and his disregard for the struggles of ordinary Americans.
“Donald Trump, the felon, has no plan to lower costs for families. He
doesn’t know how, and basically, he doesn’t really care,” Warren said, praising Harris for her efforts to combat price gouging and protect consumers during crises like the California wildfires and the COVID-19 pandemic.
“You know what I love best about Kamala Harris? Kamala Harris can’t be bought, and she can’t be bossed around.
Former Secretary of Housing and Urban Development Marcia Fudge highlighted Harris’s lifelong commitment to housing rights, contrasting her leadership with Trump’s failed policies.
WI Read more on washingtoninformer.com.
Pursuant to D.C. Official Code § 1-1001.16(p) (2), which provides Pursuant to D.C. Official Code § 1-1001.16(p)(2), which provides that the “Board [of Elections] shall publish the established legislative text of an initiative … measure in no less than 2 newspapers of general circulation in the District of Columbia within 30 calendar days after the date upon which the Board certifies … that the measure has qualified for appearance on an election ballot[,]” the Board hereby publishes the legislative text for Initiative Measure No.83, the “Ranked Choice Voting and Open the Primary Elections to Independent Voters Act of 2024.” Initiative Measure No. 83 was certified for ballot access on August 2, 2024, and will appear on the November 5, 2024 General Election ballot.
Ranked Choice Voting and Open the Primary Elections to Independent Voters Act of 2024
If enacted, the Initiative would both:
(a) implement ranked choice voting to allow voters to rank up to five candidates according to their preference in each contest for any office (other than political party offices); and
(b) permit any voter who is not registered with a political party to vote in the primary election of that voter’s choosing for all offices (other than political party offices).
This Initiative will not be implemented unless the D.C. Council separately chooses to appropriate funds for the projected costs.
LEGISLATIVE TEXT
BE IT ENACTED BY THE ELECTORS OF THE DISTRICT OF COLUMBIA, That this act may be cited as the “Ranked Choice Voting and Open the Primary Elections to Independent Voters Act of 2024.”
Sec. 2. The District of Columbia Election Code of 1955, approved August 12, 1955 (69 Stat. 699, D.C. Official Code § 1-1001.01 et seq.), is amended as follows:
(a) Section 2 (D.C. Official Code § 1-1001.02) is amended by adding new paragraphs (38) through (48) to read as follows:
“(38) “Active candidate” means a candidate who has not been defeated or elected and has not withdrawn their candidacy prior to election day pursuant to applicable law.
“(39) “Highest-ranked active candidate” means the active candidate assigned a higher ranking than any other active candidates.
“(40) “Inactive ballot” means a ballot on which no active candidate is ranked, contains an overvote at the highest ranking of active candidates, or contains 2 or more sequential skipped rankings before its highest-ranked active candidate.
“(41) “Overvote” means an instance in which a voter has ranked more than one candidate at the same ranking.
“(42) “Ranked choice voting” means a method of casting and tabulating votes whereby the voters rank candidates according to the order of their choice, and vote counting proceeds in rounds in which candidates are eliminated or elected.
“(43) “Rank” means to assign a number to each candidate for an office corresponding to
the voter’s preference for that candidate relative to the other active candidates for that office, with the number “1” denoting the highest preference, followed by “2” and then “3” and then “4” and then “5.”
“(44) “Ranking” means the number assigned by a voter to a candidate to express the voter’s choice for that candidate, with the number “1” denoting the highest ranking, followed by “2” and then “3” and then “4” and then “5”.
“(45) “Round” means an instance of the sequence of voting tabulation beginning with section 8a(d) for any single-winner contest, section 8a(e) for any general election for members of the Council at-large, and section 8a(f) for any applicable presidential preference primary election.
“(46) “Skipped ranking” means an instance of a voter leaving a ranking unassigned and ranking a candidate at a subsequent ranking.
“(47) “Threshold for receiving delegates” means the percentage of votes necessary for a candidate to receive delegates in a presidential preference primary election conducted under section 8a(f).
“(48) “Undervote” means a ballot that does not contain any candidates at any ranking in a particular contest.”.
(b) Section 5 (D.C. Official Code § 1-1001.05) is amended as follows:
(1) Subsection (a)(12) is amended as follows:
(A) Subparagraph (B) is amended by striking the semicolon and inserting the phrase “; and” in its place.
(B) A new subparagraph (C) is added to read as follows:
“(C) Notifying all voters who are not registered with a political party and have not previously requested a mail-in ballot for any primary election of the ability to request a mail-in ballot and of the means for doing so;”.
(2) Subsection (b)(4) is amended to read as follows:
“(4) The Board shall:
“(A) Arrange the ballot for the presidential preference primary so as to enable each voter to indicate the voter’s rankings for:
(i) Presidential nominee or uncommitted presidential preference (if provided for by applicable party rule); and
(ii) The slate of delegates and alternates pledged to support each presidential nominee or uncommitted presidential preference; and
“(B) Clearly indicate on the ballot the name of either the candidate for nomination for President which a slate or candidate for delegate supports or the person who shall manage an uncommitted slate of delegates.”.
(c) A new section 8a is added to read as follows:
“Sec. 1-1001.08a. Ranked choice voting.
“(a) Notwithstanding any other provision of this act, beginning with the June 2026 primary election and for all subsequent elections thereafter, ranked choice voting as provided for by this section shall be used for each primary, special, and general election involving 3 or more qualified candidates for electors for President and Vice President of the United States, Mayor, Attorney General, Chairman of the Council, Delegate to the House of Representatives, members of the Council, members of the State Board of Education, United States Senator, United States Representative, Advisory Neighborhood Commissioner, or any other elected official as defined in section 2(13).
“(b) Each ballot shall allow a voter to rank up to 5 candidates, including a write-in candidate, or as many candidates as there are in the
contest if fewer than 5.
“(c) Each ballot shall contain instructions informing the voter of the following, subject to usability testing and modification by the Board based on ballot design and voting machine capability:
“(1) That the voter may rank candidates in the order of the voter’s preference;
“(2) That the voter may rank as many candidates as the voter wishes, up to 5 candidates.
“(3) How to properly mark the ballot and indicate the voter’s candidate rankings;
“(4) That assigning a lower ranking to a candidate will not harm the chances of candidates whom the voter assigned higher rankings; and;
“(5) That the voter should not give more than one candidate the same ranking, rank a candidate more than once, or skip a ranking.
“(d) In any single contest conducted by ranked choice voting, other than a general election for atlarge members of the Council and any presidential preference primary election conducted under subsection (f) of this section, each ballot shall count as one vote for the highest-ranked active candidate on that ballot. Tabulation shall proceed in rounds, with each round proceeding sequentially as follows:
“(1) If a candidate has a majority of votes among active candidates in a round of tabulation, that candidate shall be elected or nominated, and tabulation shall be complete; or
“(2) If no candidate has a majority of votes among active candidates in a round of tabulation:
“(A) The active candidate with the fewest votes shall be defeated;
“(B) Each vote for the defeated candidate shall be transferred to each ballot’s next-ranked active candidate; and
“(C) A new round of tabulation shall begin with the step set forth in paragraph (1) of this subsection.
“(e) In any general election contest for at-large members of the Council, in which there shall be 2 winners, each ballot shall count as one vote for the highest-ranked active candidate on that ballot. Tabulation shall proceed in rounds, with each round proceeding sequentially as follows:
“(1) If there are 2 or fewer active candidates, the candidates shall be elected, and tabulation shall be complete; or
“(2) If there are more than 2 active candidates:
“(A) The active candidate with the fewest votes shall be defeated;
“(B) Each vote for the defeated candidate shall be transferred to each ballot’s next-ranked active candidate; and
“(C) A new round of tabulation shall begin with the step set forth in paragraph (1) of this subsection.
“(f) In any presidential preference primary election in which delegates are awarded to multiple candidates on a proportional basis, each ballot shall count as one vote for the highest-ranked active candidate on that ballot. Tabulation shall
proceed in rounds, with each round proceeding sequentially as follows:
“(1) If the percentage of total votes cast for each active candidate is above the party’s threshold for receiving delegates, then tabulation shall be complete; or
“(2) If there are any active candidates whose percentage of the vote total is below the party’s threshold for receiving delegates:
“(A) The active candidate with the fewest votes shall be defeated;
“(B) Each vote for the defeated candidate shall be transferred to each ballot’s next-ranked active candidate; and
“(C) A new round of tabulation shall begin with the step set forth in paragraph (1) of this subsection.
“(g) In any presidential preference primary election that awards delegates to a single candidate on a winner-take-all basis, tabulation shall proceed under subsection (d) of this section.
“(h) Nothing in this section shall be construed to preclude a political party from allocating delegates according to its own rules.
“(i) In any round of tabulation in a contest conducted by ranked choice voting:
“(1) An inactive ballot shall not count for any candidate; and
“(2) An undervote shall not count for any candidate.
“(j) If 2 or more active candidates are tied for the fewest votes and tabulation cannot continue until one such candidate is eliminated, the candidate to be eliminated shall be determined by lot immediately under an automated procedure to be established by the Board. Except as otherwise provided in subsection (l) of this section, if 2 or more candidates are tied for the greatest number of votes and the tie must be broken to determine the winner or nominee, that tie shall be resolved pursuant to section 10(c).
“(k)(1) If there are fewer than 3 qualified candidates on the ballot in a primary, general, or special election for electors for President and Vice President of the United States, Mayor, Attorney General, Chairman of the Council, Delegate to the House of Representatives, members of the Council other than those covered by paragraph (2) of this subsection, members of the State Board of Education, United States Senator, United States Representative, Advisory Neighborhood Commissioner, or any other elected official as defined in section 2(13), that election shall not be conducted by ranked choice voting. Except as otherwise provided in subsection (l) of this section, in such elections, the ballot shall allow voters to select a single candidate, and the candidate receiving the most votes shall be nominated or elected.
“(2) If there are fewer than three qualified candidates on the ballot in a general election for at-large members of the Council, that election shall not be conducted by ranked choice voting. In such elections, the ballot shall allow voters to select 2 candidates, and the 2 qualified candidates receiving the most votes shall be elected.
“(l) If the appointment of presidential electors following any general election for President of the United States is governed by the National Popular Vote Interstate Agreement Act of 2010, effective December 7, 2010 (D.C. Law 18-274; D.C. Official Code § 1-1051.01) (“Act”), then, in any general election for President and Vice President of the United States using ranked choice voting:
“(1) The certification of the appointment of electors shall be made in accordance with the provisions of the Act;
“(2) The final determination of the presidential vote count reported and certified to the States that have enacted the Act, for purposes of the Act, shall be:
“(A) In an election using ranked choice voting pursuant to subsection (d) of this section, the votes received in the final round of tabulation
by each slate of candidates for the offices of President and Vice President of the United States that received votes in the final round of tabulation; or “(B) In an election not using ranked choice voting pursuant to subsection (k) of this section, the votes received by each slate of candidates for the offices of President and Vice President of the United States; and
“(3) If two or more slates of candidates for the offices of President and Vice President of the United States are tied for the greatest number of votes, the tie shall remain unresolved.
“(m) The Board shall issue such regulations as are necessary to conduct elections using ranked choice voting.”.
(d) Section 9 (D.C. Official Code § 1-1001.09) is amended as follows:
(1) Subsection (b)(2) is amended to read as follows:
“(2) The Board shall permit any duly registered voter to vote by mail-in ballot, for any reason, under such rules as the Board may issue. The Board shall permit a voter not registered with a political party to vote by mail-in ballot in a primary election if such voter has requested such a ballot for a specific primary election held by a political party or for that specific election and all future elections in which the voter may be eligible to vote, in accordance with such rules as the Board may issue.”.
(2) Subsection (g) is amended to read as follows:
“(g)(1) No person shall vote more than once in any election.
“(1A) A duly registered voter who is not registered as affiliated with any political party shall be permitted to vote in a primary election held by a single political party of that voter’s choice, for all offices other than:
“(A) National committeemen and national committeewomen;
“(B) Delegates to conventions and conferences of political parties other than delegates to nominate candidates for the Presidency and Vice Presidency of the United States;
“(C) Alternates to the officials referred to in subparagraphs (A) and (B) of this paragraph, where permitted by political party rules; and
“(D) Such members and officials of local committees of political parties as may be designated by the duly authorized local committees of such parties for election at large or by ward in the District of Columbia.
“(2) A name written on a ballot in any election shall not be counted as valid unless the individual whose name is written on the ballot has complied with the requirements of section 8(r).”.
Sec. 3. Applicability.
(a) This act shall apply upon the date of inclusion of its fiscal effect in an approved budget and financial plan.
(b) The Chief Financial Officer shall certify the date of the inclusion of the fiscal effect in an approved budget and financial plan, and provide notice to the Budget Director of the Council of the certification.
(c)(1) The Budget Director shall cause the notice of the certification to be published in the District of Columbia Register.
(2) The date of publication of the notice of the certification shall not affect the applicability of this act.
Sec. 4. Effective date.
This act shall take effect after a 30-day period of Congressional review as provided in section 602(c) (1) of the District of Columbia Self-Government and Government Reorganization Act (Home Rule Act), approved December 24, 1973 (87 Stat. 813; D.C. Official Code §1206.02(c)(1)).
WARD 8 from Page 1
among several Ward 8 residents who converged on the Black Box Theater in THEARC West Campus in Southeast. That’s where Bro. Attorney Malik Zulu Shabazz and The Black Men’s Movement hosted a community gathering for residents who, in the aftermath of White’s arrest, had pressing questions and thoughts about the current state of affairs in Ward 8.
Throughout much of the evening, community members varied on what they believed to be the best response to White’s alleged actions. Many comments centered on the question of White’s innocence, the FBI’s history of targeting Black leaders, and alleged corruption of other public officials.
However, Anderson counted
among those who encouraged residents to vote for White. On June 4, the Ward 8 council member won the Democratic Party nomination when he defeated Rahman Branch and Salim Adofo, the latter of whom Anderson supported. For Anderson, a write-in campaign is not only an affront to the Democratic process, but a sure fire way to split the vote and guarantee Derenge an electoral victory.
“If you don’t want to set the stage for that type of leadership, you gotta respect the process,” Anderson said. “None of the names [for write-in campaigns] will appear on the general election ballot. People mad [about] Trayon will vote for Nate.”
Should White not drop out of the race before Sept. 12, his name will appear on the general election ballot alongside Derenge.
Since Aug. 19, when White appeared before a federal judge, there have been rumblings about whether he would resign from his seat. People have also mulled over the question of who would launch a write-in campaign and whether doing so could prevent Derenge’s victory in the general election.
As explained in a memo that D.C. Chairman Phil Mendelson (D) circulated on Aug. 23, D.C. Councilmember Kenyan McDuffie (I-At large) will chair the ad-hoc committee that, by the general election, would likely still be compiling and analyzing findings related to White’s allegations and residency.
With the 90-day timeline for the council investigation starting on Sept. 15, that means that the ad-hoc committee wouldn’t come to the conclusion of whether to reprimand, censure or expel White until Dec. 16.
Last week, after White’s office canceled its annual back-to-school event, Ward 8 leaders started launching write-in campaigns, or at least hinted at their intentions. Phil Pannell, a decades-long activist and executive director of the Anacostia Coordinating Committee, threw his hat in the ring, partially as a means of encouraging others to do the same.
Pannell would later suspend his campaign to support another candidate: Markus Batchelor.
Batchelor, 31, ran for the Ward 8 council seat earlier this year before dropping out of the race. When The Informer spoke with him last week, he, like Anderson and other District Democrat leaders, was in Chicago during the Democratic National Convention.
Upon returning to the District, Batchelor continued speaking with neighbors about the write-in campaign. For him, time’s of the essence, especially with the legal and political processes putting the Ward 8 council office in a state of limbo.
“Six months ago, I wanted the job. I thought we needed new leadership committed to moving us forward faster with the experience to hit the ground running on day one,” Batchelor told The Informer, emphasizing his political experience. “I served on the ward level as an advisory neighborhood commissioner. I’ve worked in the Wilson Building. I know the agencies. I’ve been a leader with integrity who brought people together to do things for Ward 8 residents.”
Other potential write-in candidates include Branch and D.C. Democratic Party Chair Charles Wilson.
Wilson declined to speak in much detail about a write-in campaign, though he mentioned being in conversation with others about the endeavor.
D.C. Women in Politics will soon launch a campaign of their own in support of a female candidate.
While Branch, one of two candidates White defeated in the June 4 primary, acknowledged that some people have approached him about launching a write-in campaign for the Ward 8 D.C. Council, he stopped short of saying he’s throwing his hat in the ring once again.
Branch’s focus, he told The Informer, is more so on how White’s federal bribery charge affects Ward 8 residents.
“We do need to consider what happens in respect to… addressing the ward’s needs on the council,” Branch said, alluding to Eagle Academy Public Charter School’s recent closure. “Families are still in crisis. Schools are closing and parents don’t have answers about where their children are going. I’m concerned that our representative can’t be a voice for those sorts of things.”
As it relates to White’s future in the John A. Wilson Building, Branch said that the Ward 8 council member has to do some “soul searching… and come to an understanding within
himself” about his next move.
“I know how much he loves the ward,” Branch said. “I know how much passion he has for his community. I wonder what his thoughts are around that move to step down and allow the ward to get support. I choose not to make those decisions, but I have confidence that that’s something he’s considering.”
On Aug. 27, Sandra Seegars and Ronald Williams, Jr. of Concerned Residents Against Violence conducted an online meeting where community leaders, business leaders and activists discussed Ward 8’s future. That meeting, along with the forum Bro. Atty. Shabazz facilitated, bore some similarity to a meeting that Adofo, chairman of Advisory Neighborhood Commission 8C, conducted with other Ward 8 ANC chairs on the evening of Aug. 21.
As Adofo recounted, he and his ANC colleagues outlined a strategy in advancing budget recommendations and boosting constituent services in their jurisdictions.
Adofo also expressed plans to invite Mendelson to explain to the community the actions that the council will take in response to the allegations against White.
Read more on washingtoninformer.com. WI
PARENTS: Children don’t yet realize that weight is more about having a healthy body and less about how that body looks. To put it into perspective, explain that carrying extra weight means the body must work harder—and that extra work can keep a person from feeling their best.
Good nutrition is a key ingredient for good health. But there are two more important ingredients you need as well. Use the code to discover them.
Our bodies need different kinds of nutrients to perform at their peak. The different nutrients we need come from different kinds of food.
Grocer Joe is thinking about the price per pound of apples and oranges. Which costs more? Write the price per pound on each crate.
When a high school in Pennsylvania put up posters telling students how much fat was in different foods, the students changed what they ate for lunch.
Look at the graph that shows what kinds of food they chose before and after the posters were put up. Then answer these questions:
How many fewer cheeseburgers were chosen after the posting of the nutrition posters?
How many more plain burgers were chosen than cheeseburgers after the posting of the nutrition posters?
What do you think the nutrition posters said about the fat content of cheese?
Look at the nutrients below. Then follow the maze to find out what each nutrient does for your body and what foods provide each nutrient.
We get this from meat, fish and beans. In order for our muscles and organs to grow and be healthy, our bodies need this.
We get these by eating bread, cereal, pasta and other foods made with grains. These give us energy.
NUTRITION APPLES POSTERS BREAD HEALTH SHINE CHEESE ORGAN OBESITY BEANS FISH CALCIUM LUNCH BURGERS BONES
Fruits and vegetables are an important source of these. They make our hair shine, our eyes sparkle and our bodies healthy.
We can get this from a variety of foods including dairy products, dark green leafy vegetables, soy beans, almonds, figs, broccoli and butternut squash. Our bodies need it to grow and keep our bones strong.
Make up a Classified Ad to sell a bunch of carrots. Look at the Classified Ad section of the newspaper to get ideas on how these ads are written.
Look for newspaper pictures of people’s heads. Cut some of these out and glue them onto a piece of paper. Write down something for each one to say about eating well. Draw a bubble around the words to make the pictures look like comics. Ask if you can post these in your lunchroom!
What is your idea of the perfect after-school snack?
"A
By Noliwe Rooks
c.2024, Penguin Press
$28 / 208 pages
Terri Schlichenmeyer WI Contributing Writer
Ten feet tall. Larger than life.
Surely, that describes the person in history you most admire. He was a giant among men. Her actions were bigger than anyone could imagine in her time and place. You think about that a lot, and the rest of their story. Is there, as in "A Passionate Mind in Relentless Pursuit" by Noliwe Rooks, more to learn?
In the early winter of 1938, Eleanor Roosevelt took a stand when she followed her friend Mary McLeod Bethune into the Southern Conference for Human Welfare and sat beside Bethune, defying the racist Public Safety Commissionor of Birmingham, Alabama. That's an account that's easy to find anywhere, and it's thrilling, but the story misses something: at one point, the conference's organizer asked for "Mary" to come up to the platform.
Bethune drew herself up and told the organizer "My name is Mrs. Bethune."
Says Rooks, it was uncommon for a Black woman to demand that she be called by a name she chose. That Bethune did is just one of the things that stick in Rooks' mind.
Bethune was her parents' 15th child and the first one born free. That wasn't her last "first": she was the first Black woman to establish a hospital for Black Floridians, and the first Black woman to launch an HBCU for young Black women in the eastern U.S. Rooks says that Bethune conceived of the idea of the Tuskegee Airmen, she was the founder of several civil rights organizations and served on the boards and committees of others; she was a teacher who held literacy classes for Black adult voters in the South; and she opened Florida's first beach exclusively "for Black people."
Rooks says that her grandparents knew Bethune and, in doing research for this book, her understanding of Bethune was totally changed. Bethune was more than an activist –she was also a dream maker and "the first lady of Black America."
Here's something you won't often see in this column: "A Passionate Mind in Relentless Pursuit" is not lengthy enough. Not by a long shot.
Author Noliwe Rooks brings the story of Mary McLeod Bethune to readers' attention, but there could've been more. We get a nice, albeit scattered, list of Bethune's work and accomplishments, but you may be left with the sense that the list is somehow incomplete. Even Rooks' thoughts and the stories of her own ancestors is so good that you'll be left wanting.
If only this book was longer.
This means you'll devour what is here: the stories, the jaw-dropping achievements, and a lingering feeling that Bethune never felt like she was done, like there was always more to do. Like Rooks, you may find that that, and Bethune, stick in your mind awhile.
Absolutely, this book will send you looking for more information on this talented, driven, brilliant woman. What you'll find here is a little short on substance but still, as an account of the magnitude of one woman's accomplishments, "A Passionate Mind in Relentless Pursuit" is a "10."
nnn
If you're up for more unique history, look for "On a Move: Philadelphia's Notorious Bombing and a Native Son's Lifelong Battle for Justice" by Mike Africa Jr. It's the story of MOVE, a Black Civil Liberties organization and the 11 people killed in a police bombing in 1985. One of those affected in the aftermath was Africa, whose parents were incarcerated and who remembers the bombing and the ensuing questions surrounding it. This is a deeply moving story that sheds light on a little-discussed chapter in history. WI
AUG. 29 - SEPT. 4, 2024
ARIES At the week's start, you'll crave conversations with friends, colleagues, and loved ones that touch on themes of philosophy and big-picture ideas. Any project that requires you to focus on boring, everyday minutiae could feel especially frustrating or draining. See what you can do to check those tasks off your list quickly so you can move on to the subjects that feel more stimulating now. Lucky Numbers: 14, 33, 50
TAURUS It's possible that over the past couple of weeks you've felt pulled and pushed on the job, torn between what you want to do and what you feel you need to do to bring in that paycheck and, in turn, promote your sense of security. But at the beginning of the week, you'll be zeroed in on striking a balance and figuring out how you can prioritize the work that really feeds your soul. Lucky Numbers: 27, 35, 48
GEMINI When the week starts, one-on-one collaborations fuel your soul even more than usual. You might have a hunger to soak up viewpoints that both echo and conflict with your own, so make sure to trade plenty of ideas back and forth with your best friend, significant other, or a close colleague. These conversations might help you land on a joint effort that you're both fired up about. Lucky Numbers: 2, 21, 52
CANCER As the week starts, you'll have extra support for taking on all those major and minor tasks that you've been trying to squeeze into your day-to-day, week-to-week routine. Whether that means finally joining that gym and getting in your strength training or swimming on a regular basis, or packing healthy meals to bring to work, you'll feel like you can tackle healthy changes with the wind in your sails. Lucky Numbers: 8, 13, 22
LEO Expressing your most vivid, artistic thoughts and proposals comes even more organically early in the week. You'll easily entertain your coworkers and significant other or friends with your quick wit and almost childlike playful energy. Take advantage of this vibe by teeing up an imaginative pitch you've been working on, or enjoying flirtation and intellectual banter as a way to set the stage for foreplay with someone special. Lucky Numbers: 3, 17, 58
VIRGO You'll find yourself itching for deep, emotional conversations with your loved ones as the week starts. It feels natural to reminisce about the past and your roots, as well as the dynamic among those you care about the most. These dialogues could lead to better understanding and even stronger bonds. Lucky Numbers: 4, 33, 54
LIBRA It might be more challenging than usual to connect with those you're closest to at the week's start. You might feel like there's a strange, inexplicable distance or coldness that's standing in the way of your ability to find common ground. Keeping your cool and allowing the moment to pass makes it easier to cope. Later, you'll feel like it's time to put your most monotonous tasks on the back burner in order to shake things up in a way that fuels your mind and spirit. Lucky Numbers: 11, 19, 31
SCORPIO Taking a microscope to your cash flow, budget, and other financial plans can feel especially empowering and productive early in the week. You'll have the focus and analytical energy to make a solid dent in any organizational tasks you've wanted to tackle and to set goals related to moneymaking and investments. Meeting with a financial adviser might be wise as well. Lucky Numbers: 21, 28, 45
SAGITTARIUS Finding common ground with a close colleague, dear friend, or significant other might be your main focus as the week starts. If it feels like your impulses and focus have been at odds with one another, or you're simply not as in sync as you'd like to be, this is a moment to zero in on solutions. Later, an exciting moneymaking opportunity could crop up out of the blue. Lucky Numbers: 14, 18, 19
CAPRICORN Meditation and reflecting on deep, psychologically rooted issues might be particularly appealing and healing at the start of the week. You'll do well to journal, express yourself through an art form that speaks to you, or even address old emotional wounds in therapy. The more you can give voice to the mental and emotional forces that underlie your everyday life, the more vital you'll feel as a result. Lucky Numbers: 5, 13, 24
AQUARIUS You might be feeling like work has been your main focus for the past several weeks, and you need a break to spend downtime with the people close to your heart as the week gets underway. Without allowing yourself playful, unstructured time to connect with your VIPs and have lighthearted fun, you might risk burnout and resentment. Later, you'll be feeling fired up to pitch your most imaginative ideas to higher-ups. Lucky Numbers: 11, 23, 30
PISCES Sitting down with higher-ups to go over your goals, both short term and long term, might be your main goal early in the week. You can use language and self-expression to drive home any powerful message you want them to hear, whether that's related to taking on more responsibility or doing what you must to earn additional recognition. Later, you'll feel driven to express yourself creatively and expand your horizons.
Lucky Numbers: 8, 26, 34
By Ed Hill
WI Contributing Writer
The college football season is rapidly approaching and expectations are high for the local teams from historically Black colleges and universities (HBCUs).
Morgan State hangs its hat on its defense, perhaps one of the best in all of the Football Championship Division (FCS). The Bears led the conference in points allowed (21.4), total yards allowed
(308.5), rushing yards allowed (128.5) and third in pass defense (180.4). In addition, the Bears tied for eighth in the nation in turnovers gained, recording 12 fumble recoveries and 11 interceptions in 10 games.
That unit figures to continue its proficiency with the return of All-Conference selections defensive lineman Elijah Williams and senior linebacker Erick Hunter, along with seniors Nan Asante and Arturo Mattocks.
A senior from Jersey City, New Jersey, Williams proved to be the most dominant defensive lineman in his position, finishing with 50 tackles, including 11 tackles for losses. His partnering up with Asante kept offenses off balance by picking up 19 tackles, 3.5 tackles for losses to go along with two sacks. He also led the MEAC with three blocked kicks.
Hunter is regarded by some as
one of the best at his position in the FCS. A Buck Buchanan finalist for the best defender, Hunter proved to be a nightmare for offenses with 75 tackles, six tackles for losses, two forced fumbles to his season's work.
Offensively, the Bears have struggled at times, but they are encouraged by the performance of sophomore Tahj Smith, who played well down the stretch,
3Morgan State (pictured here in a game against Howard University in 2023) has made great strides in its first two years under Damon Wilson. (WI File Photo/ Marcus Relacion)
passing for almost 500 yards and three touchdowns in the last four games. The offense should also be bolstered by the return of senior RB J.J. Davis, who rushed for 584 yards and two touchdowns, averaging five yards per carry.
The passing game should also be improved with the return of junior wide receivers Anthony James, Jr. and Demier Shipley, who combined for 34 catches and two touchdowns.
On special teams, Keith Jenkins, Jr., is one of the most dangerous return specialists in the conference as he averaged over 23 yards per return that included a 90-yard score. On Aug. 31, the Bears open the season at Hampton.
WI
Read on washingtoninformer.com.
SCHOOLS from Page 1
called the latest scores a step in the right direction for an administration working to improve learning outcomes --- starting in the early childhood years.
“I’m proud to be the mayor of a city with free Pre-K3 and Pre-K4, which is real school,” Bowser said on Aug. 26 at the ribbon-cutting ceremony for a state-of-the-art early childhood education center at Miner Elementary School in Northeast.
The new education center, which connects to the main Miner campus via a walkway, includes nine classrooms, a new playground for two to five year olds that's designed for sensory stimulation, and an elevator, among other accommodations for up to 140 youngsters.
This $15 million project follows the completion of an early childhood education campus at Whitlock Elementary School, also located in Ward 7. In recent years, District officials have also made investments into other District public elementary schools, including: Whitlock Elementary School in Northeast; Garfield Elementary
School in Southeast; and Dorothy Height Elementary School in Northwest.
On Monday, Bowser said that these Investments into early childhood education have produced long-term results, specifically the 2.2 percentage increase that third graders this past spring scored on the ELA portion of the statewide assignment compared to third graders from the previous year.
“I know when we put our children in school buildings with teachers and a fine-tuned curriculum, they will be ready for third grade,” Bowser said. “We're getting them reading and math comfortable.”
Last spring, DC Comprehensive Assessments of Progress in Education, also known as DC CAPE, replaced the Partnership for Assessment of Readiness for College and Careers (PARCC) as the standardized test for District public and public charter school students between the third and twelfth grades.
Students took DC CAPE along with the Multi-State Alternate Assessment, which is available for students with significant cognitive disabilities.
Like PARCC, performance on DC
CAPE is graded by performance level, with 4 and 5 signifying the highest levels of proficiency in a subject area. Education officials said that the standardized test has the same format and rigor as its predecessor.
The Spring 2024 DC CAPE results showed that, during the 2023-2024 school year, 34% of District students are meeting or exceeding expectations in ELA while fewer than 23% of students are doing the same for math.
Overall, District students saw an increase of less than a percentage point within a year in each of those subject areas. A closer look however shows that one out of three District schools increased English proficiency by at least three percentage points while nearly one out of four District schools increased math proficiency by at least three percentage points.
Middle school students saw the greatest improvement in math, with a boost of nearly two percentage points compared to their counterparts in elementary and high school who either didn’t show any improvement or improved their overall score by less than a percentage point.
When it came to ELA, elementary
school students fared better, though not significantly so, than their middle and high school counterparts, whose overall English proficiency decreased by less than a percentage point.
With the new school year in full swing, Dr. Carrie Broquard, the principal at Miner Elementary School, explained what lies ahead for early childhood learners as she endeavors to improve upon the small gains made.
“We will look to serve our children from six months to three years old,” Broquard told The Informer. “Literacy preparation and numeracy builds independent learners who are curious about the world around them. We use a play-based curriculum… based on motor skills, language fluency and early phonics. When language is being used, students are learning.”
School Leaders Eye Professional Development as a Strategy
This academic year, District public school teachers will take part in professional development with LEarning together to Advance our Practice, also known as LEAP. Each week, teachers spend 90 minutes in a content-specific professional learning community where they collaboratively deepen
their knowledge of the content and study how to best convey that information to their students.
For public and public charter school teachers, the Office of the State Superintendent of Education (OSSE) provides professional learning opportunities in the areas of: English learner instruction, multilingual education, mathematics standards, STEM integration, dyslexia, multiple tiered systems of support, and restorative justice.
OSSE also doles out funds for instructors at public and public charter schools. During the latter part of August, State Superintendent Antoinette Mitchell delved into these projects a bit more while presenting the most recent state assessment results alongside D.C. Public Schools Chancellor Lewis D. Ferebee, Dr. Michelle Walker-Davis, executive director of the D.C. Public Charter School Board (DCPCSB), and Paul Kihn, deputy mayor for education.
“The Office of the State Superintendent of Education (OSSE) has awarded more than $13 million to
SCHOOLS Page 40
By Hamil R. Harris WI Contributing Writer
The Sunday after the Democratic National Convention (DNC) wrapped in Chicago, the Rev. Al Sharpton to Howard University’s Andrew Rankin Chapel to continue building on the joy-filled momentum of the four-day convening where Vice President Kamala Harris accepted the nomination for the Democratic presidential nominee.
When he accepted the invitation to preach on Aug. 25 a while back, Sharpton said he had no idea that he would be preaching on “the Sunday after this nation saw the acceptance for the nomination as president,” by one of Howard’s graduates.
During the last night of the convention on Aug. 22, Sharpton, founder and president of the National Action Network (NAN), proudly told Harris that he would be speaking at Howard, her alma mater on Sunday. Harris responded by telling him that she would be practicing for the debate against Trump at Howard, affectionately referred to as “the Mecca.”
“It changes a lot in this country when this nation has to accept the
fact that you not only have graduates of Harvard but Howard who can lead the United States of America,” said Sharpton during his sermon.
Before he spoke, the congregation witnessed the fruit of Sharpton’s longtime legacy of activism as he was introduced by members of Howard’s NAN Chapter. They spoke about his justice fight that started from an early age.
“Growing up, our organization’s founder [the] Rev. Al Sharpton, had the opportunity to absorb a wealth of knowledge from [the Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King’s] lieutenants. He then would go on to incorporate Dr. King’s teachings of nonviolent activism into his social justice work,” said Tavia Lee, a graduating senior at Howard University and founding president of Howard’s NAN Chapter. “At the age of 16, he founded the National Youth Movement, Inc. and in 1991, he officially launched the National Action Network to continue the work,”
Fired up from the DNC, Sharpton used his time in Rankin Chapel’s pulpit to offer insight about the upcoming election.
Sharpton explained that he is looking forward to the day when Harris “puts her hand on the He explained
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. I Karen LaTise Richardson affirm that I am a living, sound-minded individual, over 18 years old as of May 3, 1993.
5The Sunday after the Democratic National Convention, on Aug. 25, the Rev. Al Sharpton spoke at Howard University’s Andrew Rankin Chapel about faith despite the storm. (Roy Lewis/The Washington Informer)
that the vice president’s leadership furthers representation for historically Black colleges and universities, African Americans and minorities in the nation.
“The minute she walks up and puts her hand on the Bible, we will go from charity to parity and be treated equally in these United States,” he said.
During his sermon, Sharpton turned to Luke 8:29 and the story of Jesus who calmed the sea, in the boat with the disciples.
“As they sailed he fell asleep and a wind storm came down on the
support literacy coaching and instructional materials for D.C. public and public charter schools. Much of this work came out of recommendations from the OSSE reading workshop,” Mitchell said.
The state superintendent said math is also a major focus.
“OSSE is training 400 teachers in math bootcamp. We’re launching a citywide task force to create a statewide strategy to increase math scores,” she said. “This brings an urgent focus to an area of critical need to identify actionable strategies to increase student learning.”
Some public charter schools, like Friendship Public Charter School, have also implemented professional development sessions where teachers, regardless of the campus where they work, learn about best practices, as actualized by colleagues who’ve pro-
lake and the boat was filling with water,” Sharpton said. “They were in jeopardy and they came to him saying, ‘Master, master we are perishing.’”
In the Biblical tale, Jesus’ questions the disciple’s faith which would get them through the storm. Sharpton said the nation must also rely on faith to save democracy.
“I came out of Broken home but I didn't have a broken faith,” Sharpton said.
He offered a faith-filled, call-toaction.
“It is time to cross over,” Sharpton
duced the most significant academic outcomes in their content area.
Administrators at Friendship PCS credit this collaboration, along with what they call a time-tested curriculum, with the three percentage point gain that the public charter school network made in ELA, and its gain of two percentage points when it came to math.
These gains were seven times greater than the average citywide gain.
“Every day, there’s something that’s available to address a child’s needs,” said Joseph Speight, head of schools at Friendship Public Charter School.
“We’re not just waiting for an assessment. We’re being intentional about how we’re helping children. We also engage parents beyond ta points. It’s a strategic pathway to address what we see in the data.”
A Closer Look: Small Group Instruction & High-Impact Tutoring
In the coming weeks, teachers at Friendship Public Charter School will
emphasized. “It's time to cross over.”
The activist, religious leader and political commentator told the students, “As long as you are disconnected from where you are you don’t know where you are going,” Sharpton said. ““To know where I am going, first I have to know who I am.”
He left the crowd with an empowering message.
“If people can convince you that you are less than what God made you. It is an insult to God,” said Sharpton. “Don't let nobody tell you what you can’t do.”
WI
closely examine their students’ DC CAPE results, and take that, along with baseline data from MAP assessments, to inform strategies they will implement to improve students’ academic outcomes.
For Brandon McCoy, a sixth and seventh grade ELA teacher at Friendship PCS, small group instruction counts among the most effective of educational models.
“Luckily, we have an ideal class size -- between 15 and 20 scholars,” McCoy told The Informer. “We have a great system where they get one-onone support and two teachers. That’s beneficial with grouping.”
Since 2019, McCoy and his colleagues in the ELA department at Friendship PCS - Ideal Campus have grouped students based on their assessment scores and areas of improvement. WI
Read more on washingtoninformer.com.
The differentiated instruction, Mc-
"My people are destroyed for lack of knowledge." — Hosea 4:6
This series of articles was originally written by me back in 2003 and since has made its way around the world. It has been posted in Africa, the United Kingdom, Sweden, Canada, Europe and Asia, is translated into different languages, and it appears all across America.
It is story of the life and suffering of my mother, which I wrote in order to help somebody, so that her living would not be in vain. This week, the Lord told me to share this article with my readers again. Those of you who have read this column faithfully will remember the devastation faced by me and my family, as my mother suffered for 12 years with diabetes and all of the other implications it brings to the human body. Here is my story:
My own education and public relations campaign on diabetes prevention — established under the name Fannie Estelle Hill Grant — started after the loss of my mother, who succumbed to Type 2 diabetes on Christmas Day 2000.
I noticed a fire burning in the diabetes health arena, in the African American community in particular, and it is still burning out of control. Hopefully, this campaign will stop fanning the flames and put out the fire.
Mother was 73 years old, a wife and mother of nine, a homemaker who loved her family very much, and she believed in preparing wonderful home-cooked meals for the family, desserts any day of the week.
WITH LYNDIA GRANT
Mama enjoyed cooking, cleaning and washing clothes, and even while raising nine children of her own, she always had room for other needy children.
In our early years in the 1960s, Mother was the wife of our sharecropper father in North Carolina, but they moved the family to Washington, D.C., in 1965. For more than 30 years the Washington metropolitan area was home.
The family learned of Mother's Type 2 diabetes after a major stroke she had back in 1989. She lived only 12 years after the diagnosis. I and my sisters pledged to begin the educational prevention campaign while we visited with and cared for our mother during her last year of life.
Mother and Father moved back to North Carolina, where she enjoyed her later years in a very peaceful way. We purchased her a new home, took over the mortgage payments, and she was happy. Mother Grant enjoyed living on a 226-acre farm near Kinston; she was one of the heirs to a farm left to her family by their father, and my grandfather, Floyd Hill. She enjoyed walking around the farm, following my father as he worked.
Mother suffered many strokes, during one of which she lost the use of her tongue and couldn't speak. Her kidneys failed, and she had kidney dialysis for the last two years of her life. High blood pressure was always present, and had been for many
years. Both legs were amputated above her knees; suddenly, her fivefoot-tall body was a little over three feet.
We wanted to know more about the disease that took our mother in such a brutal fashion. There was so much pain and suffering prior to her death. Mother Grant was a Christian, an evangelist who preached the gospel in churches throughout the D.C. area, and everyone loved her and called her Ma.
As her oldest daughter, I promised to educate millions of people regarding the causes and preventions of Type 2 diabetes.
First, I learned all I could about causes, preventions and effects. Well I had already learned first hand, what Type 2 diabetes could do to our bodies. My interest was how to prevent these many devastations! I interviewed doctors from Johns Hopkins Hospital, Washington Hospital Center, Howard University and other private doctors who specialized in Endocrinology. Finally, I became an ambassador for the American Diabetes Association, and accepted speaking engagements to tell the story of my family.
In sharing with the general public, I feel a lot better now, because my mother's living shall not be in vain. WI
Read Part 2 of this five-part series, "The Problem," next week.
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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
SUPERIOR COURT OF THE DISTRICT OF COLUMBIA Civil Division
WILBERT LEE JACKSON, JR. : Plaintiff : : Vs : : Docket No. 2024 CAB000671 ROBERT JACKSON, et. Al., : Defendants : ORDER Before the Court is plaintiff’s Motion for an Order to Allow Service of Process by Publication filed on April 24, 2024. On February 1, 2024, plaintiff filed a Complaint seeking to quiet title for property located at 1646 Gales Street, NE. The instant motion seeks an order permitting service by publication “on all unknown owners of the property. . their heirs, devises, personal representatives, executives, administrators, grantees, assigns or successors, . . and any all persons having or claiming to have any interest” in the property.
WHEREFORE, for the above stated reasons and any others that may appear from a review of the entire record herein, it is this 1st day of July 20204, hereby
ORDERED: that plaintiff’s Motion for Publication is GRANTED July 1, 2024
_________/S/____________ Date
MILTON C. LEE, JR
Associate Judge
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
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 000912
Delores Jones Meikle Decedent
Deborah D. Boddie, Esq. ProbateLawDC
1308 Ninth Street, NW Ste. 300 Washington DC 20001 Attorney
NOTICE OF APPOINTMENT, NOTICE TO CREDITORS AND NOTICE TO UNKNOWN HEIRS
Geraldine Burt, whose address is 3431 Carpenter Street, SE, Washington, DC 20020, was appointed Personal Representative of the estate of Delores Jones Meikle who died on June 14, 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 2/22/2025. Claims against the decedent shall be presented to the undersigned with a copy to the Register of Wills or filed with the Register of Wills with a copy to the undersigned, on or before 2/22/2025, or be forever barred. Persons believed to be heirs or legatees of the decedent who do not receive a copy of this notice by mail within 25 days of its first publication shall so inform the Register of Wills, including name, address, and relationship.
Date of first publication: 8/22/2024
Geraldine Burt 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 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 000542
Juan Rolando Green aka Juan R. Green Decedent
NOTICE OF APPOINTMENT, NOTICE TO CREDITORS AND NOTICE TO UNKNOWN HEIRS
Tracy Steen, whose address is 3402 Wood Creek Dr., Suitland MD, 20746, was appointed Personal Representative of the estate of Juan Rolando Green aka Juan R. Green who died on 12/11/2022 without a Will and will serve without Court supervision. All unknown heirs and heirs whose whereabouts are unknown shall enter their appearance in this proceeding.
Objections to such appointment shall be filed with the Register of Wills, D.C., 515 5th Street, N.W., Building A, Third Floor Washington, D.C. 20001, on or before 2/22/2025. Claims against the decedent shall be presented to the undersigned with a copy to the Register of Wills or filed with the Register of Wills with a copy to the undersigned, on or before 2/22/2025, or be forever barred. Persons believed to be heirs or legatees of the decedent who do not receive a copy of this notice by mail within 25 days of its first publication shall so inform the Register of Wills, including name, address, and relationship.
Date of first publication: 8/22/2024
Tracy Steen
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 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.
Date of first publication: 8/15/2024
Sherrone Lowery Shereece Lowery 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 886
Rosa Candida Aguilar Decedent
NOTICE OF APPOINTMENT, NOTICE TO CREDITORS AND NOTICE TO UNKNOWN HEIRS
Marisol Mar Aguilar, whose address is 741 Longfellow St., NW, Apt. 410, Washington, DC 20002, was appointed Personal Representative of the estate of Rosa Candida Aguilar who died on 7/5/2024 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 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 2/22/2025. Claims against the decedent shall be presented to the undersigned with a copy to the Register of Wills or filed with the Register of Wills with a copy to the undersigned, on or before 2/22/2025, or be forever barred. Persons believed to be heirs or legatees of the decedent who do not receive a copy of this notice by mail within 25 days of its first publication shall so inform the Register of Wills, including name, address, and relationship.
Date of first publication: 8/22/2024
Marisol Mar Aguilar Personal Representative
TRUE TEST COPY
Nicole Stevens Register of Wills Washington Informer
SUPERIOR COURT OF THE DISTRICT OF COLUMBIA CIVIL DIVISION WASHINGTON, D.C. 20001-2131
Jackson vs Jackson 2024-CAB-000671
Wilbert Lee Jackson, Jr. Plaintiff
Nathaniel Bush, Esq. 1119 44th Place, S.E. Washington, D.C. 20019
Attorney NOTICE OF SERVICE OF PROCESS BY PUBLICATION TO UNKNOWN HEIRS AND UNKNOWN PERSONS OF INTEREST IN THE PROPERTY LOCATED AT 1646 GALES STREET, N.E, WASHINGTON D.C. 20002.
Before the Superior Court of the District of Columbia, Civil Division, came the plaintiff Wilbert Lee Jackson, Jr., by Motion for an Order to Allow Service of Process by Publication filed on April 2, 2024. On February 1, 2024, plaintiff filed a Complaint seeking an order to quiet title to property located at 1646 Gales Street, N.E. premises situated, lying and being in the District of Columbia described as Square 4510 Lot 126. The motion seeks an order permitting service by publication “on all unknown owners of the property… their devises, personal representatives, executives, administrators, grantees, assigns and successors… and any persons having any interest” in the property. Persons believed to be heirs or legatees of the property set forth in the proceeding herein or any person claiming an interest in the property shall enter their appearance in this matter and file their claim or objection, in the Office of the Clerk of the Civil Division of the District of Columbia Superior Court, 500 Indiana Avenue, N.W., Room 5000, Washington, DC 20001 on or before 10/10/2024 or be forever barred. ORDERED by the Superior Court of the District of Columbia, that notice be given by the insertion of a copy of this order in the Daily Washington Law Reporter and a newspaper having a general circulation in the District of Columbia once a week for three (3) successive weeks notifying all person of interest or persons with a claim or in the real property described above to file said claim in the Civil Branch of the D.C. Superior Court.
SUPERIOR COURT OF THE DISTRICT OF COLUMBIA Probate Division Washington, D.C. 20001-2131
2021 ADM 000483
Mary J. Thomas Decedent
NOTICE OF APPOINTMENT, NOTICE TO CREDITORS AND NOTICE TO UNKNOWN HEIRS
J. Anthony Concino III, Esq., whose address is 5335 Wisconsin Ave., NW, Suite 400, Washington, DC 20015, was appointed Personal Representative of the estate of Mary J. Thomas who died on November 17, 2020 with 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 2/22/2025. Claims against the decedent shall be presented to the undersigned with a copy to the Register of Wills or filed with the Register of Wills with a copy to the undersigned, on or before 2/22/2025, or be forever barred. Persons believed to be heirs or legatees of the decedent who do not receive a copy of this notice by mail within 25 days of its first publication shall so inform the Register of Wills, including name, address, and relationship.
Date of first publication: 8/22/2024
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 000499
Willie F. Johnson 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 Willie F. Johnson who died on February 24, 2024 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 2/22/2025. Claims against the decedent shall be presented to the undersigned with a copy to the Register of Wills or filed with the Register of Wills with a copy to the undersigned, on or before 2/22/2025, or be forever barred. Persons believed to be heirs or legatees of the decedent who do not receive a copy of this notice by mail within 25 days of its first publication shall so inform the Register of Wills, including name, address, and relationship.
Date of first publication:
8/22/2024
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 FEP 94
January 12, 2024
Date of Death
Bobby Joe Anderson Name of Decedent
NOTICE OF APPOINTMENT OF FOREIGN PERSONAL REPRESENTATIVE AND NOTICE TO CREDITORS
Tabitha Anderson whose address is 415 Kendra Drive, Smithville, Tennessee 37166 was appointed personal representative of the estate of Bobby Joe Anderson, deceased, by the Chancery Court for Dekald County, State of Tennessee, on February 8, 2024.
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: 8/22/2024
Tabitha Anderson 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 000934
Dorothy A. Mills Decedent
NOTICE OF APPOINTMENT, NOTICE TO CREDITORS AND NOTICE TO UNKNOWN HEIRS
Lisa Mills Taylor, whose address is 804 New Orchard Place, Upper Marlboro, MD 20774, was appointed Personal Representative of the estate of Dorothy A. Mills who died on 5/31/2024 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 2/22/2025. Claims against the decedent shall be presented to the undersigned with a copy to the Register of Wills or filed with the Register of Wills with a copy to the undersigned, on or before 2/22/2025, or be forever barred. Persons believed to be heirs or legatees of the decedent who do not receive a copy of this notice by mail within 25 days of its first publication shall so inform the Register of Wills, including name, address, and relationship.
Date of first publication: 8/22/2024
Mills
SUPERIOR COURT OF THE DISTRICT OF COLUMBIA Probate Division Washington, D.C. 20001-2131 2024 ADM 000932
Lillie Mae Valentine Decedent
Julius P. Terrell, Esq. 1455 Pennsylvania Ave., NW, Suite 400 Washington, DC 20004 Attorney
NOTICE OF APPOINTMENT, NOTICE TO CREDITORS AND NOTICE TO UNKNOWN HEIRS
Eric Valentine, whose address is 17920 Curio Dr., Pflugerville, TX 78660, was appointed Personal Representative of the estate of Lillie Mae Valentine who died on February 17, 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 2/22/2025. Claims against the decedent shall be presented to the undersigned with a copy to the Register of Wills or filed with the Register of Wills with a copy to the undersigned, on or before 2/22/2025, or be forever barred.
Persons believed to be heirs or legatees of the decedent who do not receive a copy of this notice by mail within 25 days of its first publication shall so inform the Register of Wills, including name, address, and relationship.
Date of first publication: 8/22/2024
Eric Valentine 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 000921
Robert L. Davis Decedent
Aimee D. Griffin, Esq. 5335 Wisconsin Avenue, NW Suite 440 Washington, DC 20015
Attorney
NOTICE OF APPOINTMENT, NOTICE TO CREDITORS AND NOTICE TO UNKNOWN HEIRS
Brenda D. Jones, whose address is 6974 Kim Lane, Friendship, MD 20758, was appointed Personal Representative of the estate of Robert L. Davis who died on November 13, 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 2/22/2025. Claims against the decedent shall be presented to the undersigned with a copy to the Register of Wills or filed with the Register of Wills with a copy to the undersigned, on or before 2/22/2025, or be forever barred. Persons believed to be heirs or legatees of the decedent who do not receive a copy of this notice by mail within 25 days of its first publication shall so inform the Register of Wills, including name, address, and relationship.
Date of first publication: 8/22/2024
Brenda D. Jones 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 000286
Joe Nelson Sprowl Decedent
NOTICE OF APPOINTMENT, NOTICE TO CREDITORS AND NOTICE TO UNKNOWN HEIRS
J. Anthony Concino III, Esq., whose address is 5335 Wisconsin Ave., NW, Suite 400, Washington, DC 20015, was appointed Personal Representative of the estate of Joe Nelson Sprowl who died on April 29, 2021 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 2/22/2025. Claims against the decedent shall be presented to the undersigned with a copy to the Register of Wills or filed with the Register of Wills with a copy to the undersigned, on or before 2/22/2025, or be forever barred. Persons believed to be heirs or legatees of the decedent who do not receive a copy of this notice by mail within 25 days of its first publication shall so inform the Register of Wills, including name, address, and relationship.
Date of first publication: 8/22/2024
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
2002 ADM 000994
Vernon Owens Decedent
NOTICE OF APPOINTMENT, NOTICE TO CREDITORS AND NOTICE TO UNKNOWN HEIRS
J. Anthony Concino III, Esq., whose address is 5335 Wisconsin Ave., NW, Suite 400, Washington, DC 20015, was appointed Personal Representative of the estate of Vernon Owens who died on May 20, 2002 with 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 2/22/2025. Claims against the decedent shall be presented to the undersigned with a copy to the Register of Wills or filed with the Register of Wills with a copy to the undersigned, on or before 2/22/2025, or be forever barred. Persons believed to be heirs or legatees of the decedent who do not receive a copy of this notice by mail within 25 days of its first publication shall so inform the Register of Wills, including name, address, and relationship.
Date of first publication: 8/22/2024
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 000566
Darrell Dease Decedent
NOTICE OF APPOINTMENT, NOTICE TO CREDITORS AND NOTICE TO UNKNOWN HEIRS
Jewel Walker-Dease, whose address is 404 Oakwood St., SE, Washington, DC 20032, was appointed Personal Representative of the estate of Darrell Dease 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 2/28/2025. 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 2/28/2025, 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: 8/29/2024
Jewel Walker-Dease 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 913
Alice J. Gatewood Decedent
Deborah D. Boddie, Esq. ProbateLawDC 1308 Ninth Street, NW, Suite 300 Washington, DC 20001 Attorney
NOTICE OF APPOINTMENT, NOTICE TO CREDITORS AND NOTICE TO UNKNOWN HEIRS
Norman L. Gatewood, whose address is 3105 McBride Court, Burtonsville, MD 20866, was appointed Personal Representative of the estate of Alice J. Gatewood who died on July 22, 2015 with a Will and will serve without Court supervision. All unknown heirs and heirs whose whereabouts are unknown shall enter their appearance in this proceeding. Objections to such appointment (or to the probate of decedent’s Will) shall be filed with the Register of Wills, D.C., 515 5th Street, N.W., Building A, Third Floor Washington, D.C. 20001, on or before 2/22/2025. Claims against the decedent shall be presented to the undersigned with a copy to the Register of Wills or filed with the Register of Wills with a copy to the undersigned, on or before 2/22/2025, or be forever barred. Persons believed to be heirs or legatees of the decedent who do not receive a copy of this notice by mail within 25 days of its first publication shall so inform the Register of Wills, including name, address, and relationship.
Date of first publication: 8/22/2024
Alice J. Gatewood 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 000962
Mark S. Bell aka Mark Steven Bell aka Mark Stephen Bell Decedent
NOTICE OF APPOINTMENT, NOTICE TO CREDITORS AND NOTICE TO UNKNOWN HEIRS
Marsha Ridgley, whose address is 712 Underwood St., NW, Washington, DC 20012, was appointed Personal Representative of the estate of Mark S. Bell aka Mark Steven Bell aka Mark Stephen Bell who died on 6/28/2024 with a Will and will serve without Court supervision. All unknown heirs and heirs whose whereabouts are unknown shall enter their appearance in this proceeding. Objections to such appointment (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 3/1/2025. 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 3/1/2025, 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: 8/29/2024
Marsha Ridgley
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 000917
Seth Alexander Selby Tetro Decedent
Ann Nathanson
Norris Law Group 600 14th Street, NW, Fifth Floor Washington, DC 20005
Attorney
NOTICE OF APPOINTMENT, NOTICE TO CREDITORS AND NOTICE TO UNKNOWN HEIRS
Christine Selby Regan, whose address is 2415 Jaywood Drive, Titusville, FL 32780, was appointed Personal Representative of the estate of Seth Alexander Selby Tetro who died on October 19, 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 3/1/2025. 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 3/1/2025, 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: 8/29/2024
Christine Selby Regan 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 000020
Helen V. Williams 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 Helen V. Williams who died on November 14, 2021 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 3/1/2025. 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 3/1/2025, 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: 2/29/2024
J. Anthony Concino III, Esq. 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 000927
Patricia Ann O’Connor Decedent
NOTICE OF APPOINTMENT, NOTICE TO CREDITORS AND NOTICE TO UNKNOWN HEIRS
Kent C. Cooper, whose address is 6004 Nevada Avenue, NW, Washington, DC 20015, was appointed Personal Representative of the estate of Patricia Ann O’Connor who died on May 1, 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 3/1/2025. 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 3/1/2025, 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: 8/29/2024
Kent C. Cooper
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 967
Hazel W. Myers Decedent
NOTICE OF APPOINTMENT, NOTICE TO CREDITORS AND NOTICE TO UNKNOWN HEIRS
Colleen H. Brown, whose address is 3309 Slaughter Road, Henrico, VA 23228, was appointed Personal Representative of the estate of Hazel W. Myers who died on April 19, 2020 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 3/1/2025. 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 3/1/2025, 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: 8/29/2024
Colleen H. Brown 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 000955
Marva Louise Smith
Decedent
Stevaughn Bush 600 Maryland Ave., SW, Ste. 800E Washington, DC 20024
Attorney
NOTICE OF APPOINTMENT, NOTICE TO CREDITORS AND NOTICE TO UNKNOWN HEIRS
Joyce Z. Pascal-Kilcore, whose address is 2752 Unicorn Ln., NW, Washington, DC 20015, was appointed Personal Representative of the estate of Marva Louise Smith who died on June 7, 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 2/28/2025. 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 2/28/2025, 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: 8/29/2024
Joyce Z. Pascal-Kilgore 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 000953
Gladys Dickerson Decedent
NOTICE OF APPOINTMENT, NOTICE TO CREDITORS AND NOTICE TO UNKNOWN HEIRS
Michael Dickerson, whose address is 7415 Quail Ridge Ln., Bowie MD 20720, was appointed Personal Representative of the estate of Gladys Dickerson who died on July 17, 2022 without a Will and will serve without Court supervision. All unknown heirs and heirs whose whereabouts are unknown shall enter their appearance in this proceeding. Objections to such appointment (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 2/28/2024. Claims against the decedent shall be presented to the undersigned with a copy to the Register of Wills or filed with the Register of Wills with a copy to the undersigned, on or before 2/28/2024, or be forever barred. Persons believed to be heirs or legatees of the decedent who do not receive a copy of this notice by mail within 25 days of its first publication shall so inform the Register of Wills, including name, address, and relationship.
Date of first publication: 8/29/2024
Michael Dickerson 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 000923
Lawrence Yates Jr. Decedent
NOTICE OF APPOINTMENT, NOTICE TO CREDITORS AND NOTICE TO UNKNOWN HEIRS
Karen Yates, whose address is 3083 Brinkley Rd. #T1, Temple Hills, MD 20748, was appointed Personal Representative of the estate of Lawrence Yates Jr. who died on July 20, 1997 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 8/29/2025. 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 8/29/2025, 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: 8/29/2024
Karen Yates 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 000975
Georgia-Jean F. Hollander Decedent
NOTICE OF APPOINTMENT, NOTICE TO CREDITORS AND NOTICE TO UNKNOWN HEIRS
Richard E. Hollander, whose address is 3407 Rodman Street, NW, Washington, DC 20008, was appointed Personal Representative of the estate of Georgia-Jean F. Hollander who died on April 7, 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 3/1/2025. 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 3/1/2025, 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: 8/29/2024
Richard E. Hollander
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 964
Jamil Atif Abdus Sabur David Decedent
NOTICE OF APPOINTMENT, NOTICE TO CREDITORS AND NOTICE TO UNKNOWN HEIRS
Elijah Stewart, whose address is 82 Galveston St., SW #301, Washington, DC 20032, was appointed Personal Representative of the estate of Jamil Atif Abdus Sabur David who died on 1/20/2024 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 3/1/2025. 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 3/1/2025, 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: 8/29/2024
Elijah Stewart 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 969
Ernest E. Reed Decedent
NOTICE OF APPOINTMENT, NOTICE TO CREDITORS AND NOTICE TO UNKNOWN HEIRS
Regina R. Dillingham, whose address is 416 F Street, NE, Washington, DC 20002, was appointed Personal Representative of the estate of Ernest E. Reed who died on January 23, 2020 without a Will and will serve without Court supervision. All unknown heirs and heirs whose whereabouts are unknown shall enter their appearance in this proceeding. Objections to such appointment shall be filed with the Register of Wills, D.C., 515 5th Street, N.W., Building A, Third Floor Washington, D.C. 20001, on or before 3/1/2025. 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 3/1/2025, 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: 8/29/2024
Ernest E. Reed 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 000098
October 19, 2021
Date of Death
Earl Wheeler, Jr.
Name of Decedent
NOTICE OF APPOINTMENT OF FOREIGN PERSONAL REPRESENTATIVE AND NOTICE TO CREDITORS
Danita L. Brooks whose address is 733 Tola Court, Hyattsville, MD 20785 was appointed personal representative of the estate of Earl Wheeler, Jr., deceased, by the Orphans Court for Prince Georges County, State of Maryland, on February 1, 2022.
Service of process may be made upon James Larry Frazier, Esq., 918 Maryland Avenue, NE, Washington, DC 20002 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.
Interest in Square 4474, Lot 0055 1020 19th 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: 8/29/2024
Danita L. Brooks 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 000097
March 26, 2024 Date of Death
Archie B. Reed Name of Decedent
NOTICE OF APPOINTMENT OF FOREIGN PERSONAL REPRESENTATIVE AND NOTICE TO CREDITORS
Archie Byron Reed whose address is 5212 Bordeaux Cove, Ellicott City, MD 21043 was appointed personal representative of the estate of Archie B. Reed, deceased, by the Register of Wills Court for Howard County, State of Maryland, on June 17, 2024.
Service of process may be made upon Ralphaello McKeython 716 Harvard Street, NW, Washington, DC 20001 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.
4349 Dubois Place, 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: 8/29/2024
Archie Byron Reed 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 966
David Louis Balentine Decedent
Rachelle H. Raphael, Esq. 4800 Hampden Lane, Ste. 200 Bethesda, MD 20814
Attorney
NOTICE OF APPOINTMENT, NOTICE TO CREDITORS AND NOTICE TO UNKNOWN HEIRS
Barbara Ann LeRoy, whose address is 17 Woodside Circle, Evans, GA 30809, was appointed Personal Representative of the estate of David Louis Balentine who died on May 7, 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 3/1/2025. 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 3/1/2025, 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: 8/29/2024
Barbara Ann LeRoy 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 000919
Annie L. Ratcliff Decedent
Peggy A. Miller, Esq. 5130 7th St., NE Washington, DC 20011-2625 Attorney
NOTICE OF APPOINTMENT, NOTICE TO CREDITORS AND NOTICE TO UNKNOWN HEIRS
Jacqueline Y. Dorrah, whose address is 7021 Dewdrop Way, Clinton, MD 20735, was appointed Personal Representative of the estate of Annie L. Ratcliff who died on June 23, 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 3/1/2025. 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 3/1/2025, 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: 8/29/2024
Jacqueline Y. Dorrah 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 000973
Christian Berger Tankoua Nzoudja Decedent
NOTICE OF APPOINTMENT, NOTICE TO CREDITORS AND NOTICE TO UNKNOWN HEIRS
Charlin Junior Ngabmen, whose address is 10707 Glenhaven Dr., Silver Spring, MD 20902, was appointed Personal Representative of the estate of Christian Berger Tankoua Nzoudja who died on 7/15/2024 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 3/1/2025. 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 3/1/2025, 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: 8/29/2024
Charlin Junior Ngabmen 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 000965
Pauline Elizabeth Johnson Decedent
George A. Teitelbaum, Esq. 2416 Blueridge Ave., Suite 200 Wheaton, MD 20902
Attorney
NOTICE OF APPOINTMENT, NOTICE TO CREDITORS AND NOTICE TO UNKNOWN HEIRS
Eric G. Klimes, whose address is 933 E. Foxhill Dr., Fresno, CA 93720, was appointed Personal Representative of the estate of Pauline Elizabeth Johnson who died on June 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 2/22/2025. Claims against the decedent shall be presented to the undersigned with a copy to the Register of Wills or filed with the Register of Wills with a copy to the undersigned, on or before 2/22/2025, or be forever barred.
Persons believed to be heirs or legatees of the decedent who do not receive a copy of this notice by mail within 25 days of its first publication shall so inform the Register of Wills, including name, address, and relationship.
Date of first publication: 8/22/2024
Eric G. Klimes
Personal Representative
TRUE TEST COPY
Nicole Stevens Register of Wills
Washington Informer
from Page 1
Kamala Harris, the Democratic presidential nominee, was 19, when Rev. Jackson stood on the stage at the Democratic National Convention in San Francisco after garnering 3.5 million votes.
“I just want young America to do me one favor… Exercise the right to dream,” said Rev. Jackson on July 18, 1984, during his address at that year’s Democratic National Convention.
While Walter Mondale won the Democratic nomination that year and George Bush would win the White House, Jackson won the hearts of a new generation of progressives that became part of the Rainbow Coalition.
The Rainbow PUSH Coalition was formed in 1996 by Rev. Jackson through the merging of two organizations he founded in 1971 and 1984: People United to Serve Humanity (PUSH), and the Rainbow Coalition, respectively.
On Tuesday night, Jackson looked across the United Center at the DNC and later told The Informer: “I saw the fulfillment of the Rainbow: Red, Yellow, Black and White.”
While Jackson didn't speak during this year’s convention, he raised his hands in victory, flanked by his youngest son Yusef Jackson and the Rev. Al Sharpton.
As in 1984, this year’s convention concluded with Democrats leaving Chicago with a new sense of activism.
From Oprah Winfrey who declared, “We are not going back,” to Minnesota Gov. Tim Walz- Harris’ running mate, saying the campaign is in the fourth quarter and “we are on offense,” the convention offered four days of inspirational speakers.
Jackson said his candidacies in 1984 and in 1988 planted seeds of hope and seeing and greeting people in Chicago this week proved, “that we changed people’s minds for what is possible.”
The Rev. Grainger Browning, pastor of Ebenezer A.M.E. Church in Fort Washington, Maryland, emphasized Jackson’s long legacy.
“No one has been more underestimated and under appreciated in terms of their role in American politics than Rev. Jackson,” Browning, a national board member of Rainbow PUSH Coalition, told The Informer. “In 1984 coming in with no money and coming in third, and in 1988, he almost won… He was
the front runner going into the final primary in New York.”
During the 1984 and 1988 conventions, Jackson won several states and thousands of delegates and during the next four decades, the Congressional Black Caucus would expand its ranks with those who started in the Rainbow Coalition.
From DNC Committee Chair Minyon Moore to Vice-President Haris, Jackson said many leading Democrats were all members of the Rainbow Coalition.
The four-day convention was a political family reunion that brought together civil rights icons, many of whom were inspired by Jackson’s leadership.
“I have been with Rev. Jackson for 40 years, when I was just a teenager during his first campaign in 1984, and this is the fruit of his labor and the fruit of what he built,” said the Rev. Mark Thompson, a longtime activist, media personality and the National Newspaper Publishers Association’s (NNPA) Global Digital Transformation Director. “Rev. Jackson changed the Democratic Party so that we can have the first Black woman nominee in this country.”
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From Oprah Winfrey who declared, “We are not going back,” to Minnesota Gov. Tim WalzHarris’ running mate, saying the campaign is in the fourth quarter and “we are on offense,” the convention offered four days of inspirational speakers.
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representation on party committees including Rules, Platform, and Credentials. The Rules committee changed the way Electoral votes are divides, shifting from a winnertake-all system to a proportional distribution of votes.
MALVEAUX from Page 28 and justice includes voting justice. His voter registration efforts were game-changing, and his line "The same hands that picked peaches can pick presidents" continues to inspire, spawning organizations like The National Coalition for Black Civic Participation, Black Votes Matter, and others.
Given that altered formula, Democratic party candidates were able to amass delegates to the convention more fairly. This rules change has helped every candidate, winner or loser, in their race and made the party both more diverse and more competitive.
Jackson's legacy is his Rainbow Coalition, his method of bringing people together whose similarities dwarf their differences. The Rainbow principles are those of social, political and economic justice,
TOWNS from Page 28
Unfortunately, the elderly are not the only vulnerable community affected by these insurance denials. Prior authorization requirements, along with insurance denials, disproportionately affect minority and underserved lower-income populations. A 2022 study found that Black cancer patients were three
Harris said, fighting for the people "has been my life's work." We are voting for her because she is a conscience-driven public servant who fought hard for people in many ways. For those who may struggle with Harris being a trailblazing woman, I suggest they consider Francis Perkins.
The voter registration and participation may be more important now than ever, with Republican nation-wide aggressive efforts for suppress the vote. According to Barbara Arnwine, founder and president of the Transformative Justice Coalition, there have been 291 voter suppression laws in 40 states passed in the past four years, with six states passing seven additional restrictive laws just this year. On the positive side, 11 states have passed 14 laws
times more likely to be denied health insurance compared to their white counterparts. This racial disparity underscores the urgent need for reform to ensure equitable access to healthcare for all.
For too long, some insurance companies have amassed enormous profits at the expense of patients, providers, and hospitals. It's time we prioritize patients over profits
MARSHALL from Page 28 back by helping to abolish child exploitation and child labor. Not only was she a great American, but she was also a great woman. She was a voice for the working class. She became a quiet legend in history who overcame gender bias in a male-dominated society. By doing so, she broke the glass ceiling, making it easier for future women to have opportunities in the federal government.
There are many individuals throughout history who were considered great Americans. Some of these patriots and their legacies will never be forgotten. There are those, such as Harry Truman, who were not fully appreciated during their era, but over time, they were given due credit for their dedicated service. Francis Perkins is unique. Her name will never be well-known, but every American today lives her legacy. Perkins was a great American, not because she simply pushed through a political agenda. She is great due to the lives saved through regulations she developed regarding worker safety.
She allowed the elderly to live with some degree of dignity. She gave children their childhoods
that protect the right to vote. Arnwine, who is part of the Rainbow Coalition's leadership, is passionate about election protection and is among the many who have benefitted from Rev. Jackson's mentorship.
The Chicago convention is focused on the future, and it was delightful to see the future showcased highlighted with speeches from under-40 congressional stars like AOC of New York and Jasmine Crockett of Texas. The Sankofa symbol means "go back and get it." In giving Rev. Jackson his flowers, we've gone back to get elements of his leadership, fire, and focus. Democrats will move forward with Kamala Harris, but we've also got to go back to our basics.
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and hold these corporate giants accountable. This critical issue must be addressed by implementing stricter regulations and oversight on insurance claim denials can provide much-needed relief and justice to millions of Americans.
Our healthcare system should be a source of support and healing, not a battleground for patients to fight for the care they deserve. WI
nating child labor, and regulating worker safety. She defined the 40hour work week, which remains a part of today's work standards. In other words, if you are a man or woman who at any time received workman's compensation insurance or have weekends off from work, you should thank the woman trailblazer who devoted her career to improving working conditions for Americans.
The United States Department of Labor headquarters building in Washington, D.C., rightfully bears her name — the Francis Perkins Building. While the average person may not know her by name, they definitely know her policies. Francis Perkins became the first woman to hold a Cabinet position when she was appointed secretary of labor in the Franklin Roosevelt administration, a position she held for 12 years. She was the driving force behind the Social Security Act of 1935 and was responsible for drafting the Fair Labor Standards Act of 1938.
Through her efforts, the U.S. established the minimum wage, overtime, pensions for the elderly, unemployment insurance, elimi-
In her words, she believed, "Poverty was preventable, destructive, wasteful and demoralizing. In the midst of potential plenty, it is morally unacceptable in a Christian and democratic society. Because the poor are people with hopes, fears, virtues and fellow citizens…" Francis Perkins and Kamala Harris are conscience-driven public servants with the future always in mind. Perkins and future Americans benefitted by having the White House, U.S. Senate and U.S. House of Representatives controlled by the Democratic Party. In November, give the Democrats the federal government trifecta, and let's see what our future holds. WI
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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…
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WILLIAMS from Page 29
we should vote to make Kamala our next president.
Night after night, we saw truly happy people. Stevie Wonder performed his magic. John Legend, Sheila E. and others made us want to dance whether we in the convention center or sitting at home just watching everything.
Rev. Al Sharpton came on and made us feel good come rain or shine. He told us about Trump — a man he has known for a long time who just wanted to get ahead
EDELMAN from Page 29
We are all God's children and the will of each of us is as precious as the will of the most powerful General or corporate millionaire. Our will — our will can create a new America … one where there's freedom from violence and war at home and abroad; where there's freedom from poverty and discrimination; where there exists at least a feeling that we are making progress and assurance for everyone, medical care, employment, and decent housing; where we more decisively clean up our streets, our water, and our air; where we work together, Black and white, to rebuild our neighborhoods, and to make our cities quiet, attractive, and efficient; and, fundamentally, where we live in the confidence that every
JEALOUS from Page 29
wide in Virginia as lieutenant governor in 1985. 1989 then saw Wilder become the first-ever elected Black governor in the United States and David Dinkins elected the first Black mayor of New York City.
I had this epiphany about Illinois' special place in the civil rights movement right before traveling to Chicago to take part in various events held during this year's Democratic convention. It was at the White House, of all places. I had the privilege of being in the Oval Office for President Biden's dedication of the site of the 1908 Springfield Race Riot as our country's newest national monument. Among the crowd were some of Illinois' top political leaders. And one of them mentioned that Illinois currently does not have a Civil Rights Trail.
I thought about that as I was walking out and a photograph on display in the Oval Office caught my eye. It was President Biden with his moth-
for himself but not for others — and how Kamala consistently works to help those in need. He said we are gonna do a job on those who've done a job on us! He talked about the things for which we have worked so hard and we won't go back! At that point, the crowd was cheering with "We won't go back!"
Those were not just Black people. White women were just as loud — especially when the words freedom and choice for women to be able to decide what to do with their own bodies! Others were
man and every woman in America has at long last the opportunity to become all that he was created of being, such as his ability. … All of you who share this vision, from New York to California, from Wisconsin to Florida, are brothers and sisters on the road to national unity and a new America. Those of you — those of you who were locked outside of the convention hall in 1968, those of you who can now vote for the first time, those of you who agree with me that the institutions of this country belong to all of the people who inhabit it, those of you who have been neglected, left out, ignored, forgotten, or shunned aside for whatever reason: Give me your help at this hour."
As Rep. Chisholm looked back at all those who had never been allowed
er and then President-elect Barack Obama on election night in 2008 in Chicago's Grant Park. I remembered that night and was immediately awash in more memories close to my heart and my sense of patriotism.
I was in Springfield, Illinois, when President Obama launched his campaign for president there in 2007. I have always remembered that campaign kickoff vividly because of its historical significance and because of how cold it was. It will be forever even more deeply ingrained in my memory because one of my crew that day who I stood with during the rally was my friend Kamala Harris, then the district attorney of San Francisco.
Springfield was the home of Abraham Lincoln. When the NAACP was formed in 1909, six months after the Springfield Race Riot, it was on what would have been the Great Emancipator's 100th birthday. Then in 2007, nearly 100 years after that, Springfield was where Illinois Sen. Obama chose to begin his presiden-
cheering for reasons we may never know.
More than once we heard, "If we stay together and vote together, joy will come in the morning." I was pleased that he referred to Rev. Jesse Jackson as his mentor, for it was Rev. Jackson who taught so many the importance of getting registered and voting in every election.
A group of Black men said, "We are going to usher Kamala Harris into the White House on November 5, and what a joy that will be!"
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to participate and vote in the past, she also looked forward to all those who would now be included in the political process in the future. Her positive vision for a new America still resonates. So too does her unwavering belief that we must have a nation where everyone participates, everyone is valued, and everyone's voices and votes count. When Vice President Harris gave her landmark speech accepting her own nomination for the presidency, she did not have to focus on the history of her candidacy. But she did follow in the footsteps of Representative Shirley Chisholm and the generations of Americans before and after her who have insisted that we will keep moving forward and keep breaking each remaining barrier and ceiling to assure history keeps being made. WI
tial journey. Once again, it was that pattern of things continuing coming full circle back to Illinois in our nation's long march towards freedom and justice.
Clearly, Illinois deserves to have several Civil Rights Trail-recognized sites.
Last week's convention was one for the ages. The speeches, the optimism, the energy, and yes, the joy. It was also just the latest of Chicago's and the state of Illinois' immense contributions to America's progress toward the day when the rights and dignity of all people are fully realized. This week we celebrate Women's Equality Day. It is the anniversary of women gaining the right to vote with the adoption of the 19th Amendment in 1920. As our country sits poised to elect its first woman as president, it is also fitting to remember that Illinois was part of the very first group of states (along with Wisconsin and Michigan on the same day) to ratify that amendment. WI
“This
