Hill-Bound Angela Alsobrooks Resigns as Prince George’s County Executive, Special Election Ahead
Looking Ahead as Trump Prepares to Take Office, Alsobrooks Gearing Up to Protect Marylanders
By Richard Elliott WI Contributing Reporter
Fresh off a general election victory against former Maryland Governor Larry Hogan (R), U.S. Senator-elect Angela Alsobrooks (D), resigned on Dec. 2 from the Office of the Prince George’s County Executive, and will be sworn into Congress’ upper chamber on Jan. 3. Chief Administrative Officer Tara
ALSOBROOKS Page 52
The Collins Council Report: Winding Down to the End of Council Period 24
By Sam P.K. Collins WI Staff Writer
Tuesday, Dec. 3 marked the D.C. Council’s second-to-last legislative meeting of Council Period 24. That convening, and the Committee of the Whole meeting preceding it, started later than anticipated. This was due to spirited debate at the council breakfast about for-hire food delivery vehicles, juvenile re-
Black D.C. Residents Troubled by City Vacant Property Law
By James Wright WI Staff Writer
For years, Howard University students, faculty, and staff, as well as residents of the Parkview and Columbia Heights neighborhoods have stopped by Morgan’s Seafood located on the intersection of Georgia Avenue and Kenyon Streets in Northwest, to grab a fish sandwich, dinner or other treats that the carryout offers.
Community Members Demand Support for Bowser ONSE Nominee In Confirmation Roundtable, Kwelli D. Sneed Answers Questions about Grant Compliance
By Sam P.K. Collins WI Staff Writer
If the D.C. Council approves Kwelli D. Sneed as D.C. Mayor Muriel Bowser’s pick for executive director of the Office of Neighborhood Safety and Engagement (ONSE), she will officially lead an agency that, since its inception, has struggled to gain consistent interagency support like what many in the violence prevention community desire. Most public witnesses who testified at Sneed’s confirmation roundtable on Dec. 2 posed fewer questions around Sneed’s capabilities, and more around how best to support her in a role that, to some degree, overwhelmed her predecessors.
Some of them, like Lorenzo Ford, went even as far to explain how ONSE’s offerings, including the Pathways
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cidivism and housing for pets, among other topics.
This edition of The Collins Council Report delves into a few pieces of legislation of consequence, all of which were voted on by all but one council member, elder statesman Vincent C. Gray, who’s approaching retirement.
Romeo Morgan has managed Morgan’s Seafood for a few decades. However, several years ago, a developer demanded Morgan sell his property for $1.3 million.
“My property is worth five times that much,” Morgan told The Informer. “The developer refused that amount and then he told me he will force me to sell the property.”
Soon after, Morgan said he received a notice from the District government that his property was desig-
Celebrating 60 years. Your credible and trusted source for
Kamala Harris Celevrates Thanksgiving Page 5
5ONSE Pathways Program Interim Director Kwelli D. Sneed, Dalonta Crudup and ONSE Program Manager Mishawn Freeman pose at the Pathways Program’s 14th graduation Ceremony on Sept. 29. (Robert R. Roberts/The Washington Informer)
5As Senator-elect Angela Alsobrooks prepares to join the U.S. Senate on Jan. 3, she resigned from the Office of the County Executive, leaving room for a special election to determine Prince George’s next leader. (WI File Photo/Anthony Tilghman)
5The D.C. Council is wrapping Council Period 24 by planning ahead, talking about the next budget season and working on legislation. (WI File Photo/Ja’Mon Jackson)
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STAFF
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REPORTERS
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BY STACY M. BROWN,WI SENIOR WRITER; BRENDA C. SILER, WI CONTRIBUTING WRITER;
LL Cool J Reflects on His Legacy: ‘The Most Important Rapper That Ever Existed’
LL Cool J, a hip-hop pioneer whose career spans nearly four decades, recently reflected on his profound impact on music, fashion, and entertainment.
Speaking on Apple Music’s “Le Code,” the artist expressed confidence that history will recognize his contributions as foundational to the culture.
“I think that one day people are going to wake up and realize LL Cool J is the most important rapper that ever existed,” he said, referring to himself by the stage name that stands for “Ladies Love Cool James.”
Born James Todd Smith on January 14, 1968, in Bay Shore, New York, the rapper and actor grew up in Queens and adopted his moniker as a teenager.
In 1984, he became one of the first artists signed to Def Jam Records, a fledgling label co-founded by Russell Simmons and Rick Rubin. His debut single, “I Need a Beat,” sold over 100,000 copies, signaling the start of a career
defined by groundbreaking achievements. His debut album, “Radio,” released in 1985, went platinum and featured hits like “I Can’t Live Without My Radio” and “Rock the Bells,” cementing LL’s place in hip-hop’s early canon. LL Cool J detailed how he introduced key elements to hip-hop culture.
“They’re going to look and say, ‘Wow, this is the guy that introduced all the ice, the jewelry, and the champagne,’” he said.
While LL Cool J revolutionized music and style, he also excelled in acting. His film roles include “Halloween H2O” (1998) “Any Given Sunday” (1999), and “In Too Deep” (1999).
Since 2009, he has starred on CBS’s NCIS: Los Angeles, one of television’s most enduring dramas. Balancing his
Catherine Russell Quartet Adds Sparks to American Music Standards, Talks Grammy Nomination
With funny backstories, good music, and riding the high of her recently announced Grammy nomination for the album “My Ideal,” vocalist Catherine Russell delivered an engaging show that took audiences on an exploratory musical journey at Blues Alley on Nov. 30.
“I like well-known people with lesser-known tunes,” Russell told the crowd.
Catherine Russell Quartet comes to the historic Blues Alley in D.C. yearly to sold-out crowds. The group opened with “I’m Gonna Sit Right Down and Write Myself a Letter,” originally recorded by Fats Waller.
Russell brings a mind-opening richness to her performances because she is a child of music royalty. Her father, the late Luis Russell, was a legendary pianist,
composer, bandleader, and Louis Armstrong's longtime musical director. Her mother, the late Carline Ray, was a pioneering vocalist, guitarist and bassist who performed with International Sweethearts of Rhythm.
Russell, recently Grammy nominated for “Best Jazz Vocal Album,” spoke about organizing her father’s archives, which were a treasure trove of songs and arrangements.
Several of the songs in the evening’s repertoire included songs with definite messages, like Dinah Washington’s “My Man’s an Undertaker,” Tiny Bradshaw’s “Take Those Hands Off the Clock,” and Charlie Rich’s “Who Will the Next Fool Be.”
The musicians performing with Russell at Blues Alley were guitarist and music director Matt Munisteri, pianist Ben Patterson, and bassist Tal Ronen.
Released in August, the album was recorded with pianist Sean Mason who usually tours with Russell’s group.
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Read more on washingtoninformer.com.
Bowie Baysox No More: Team Rebranded to Chesapeake Baysox
The Bowie Baysox, the Baltimore Orioles’ AA level affiliate team, officially rebranded the team to the Chesapeake Baysox on Nov. 22.
discovering the scope of the change.
"Chesapeake Baysox highlights the sense of pride in the region and a larger family of fans that are now supporting the team," said team owner Greg Baroni, who also serves as the CEO of Attain Sports.
While the team name was changed to better reflect regional inclusion, similar to fellow Orioles’ minor-league affiliate Delmarva Shorebirds, not everyone is a fan of the new name.
Delegate Adrian Boafo (D- District 23) was invited to attend the naming ceremony but declined once
“This is a backhanded slap towards the City of Bowie! We are a premier destination that has welcomed fans across the state for decades,” said Boafo, who previously served as the Vice Mayor of Bowie, in a social media post. “Very disappointing!”
Despite the new name, the Baysox will continue playing at Prince George’s Stadium with pride.
"While our new name reflects the broader fan base, we're honored to hold on to the local traditions and spirit of the Bowie name,” Baroni said. “We like to refer to it as Bowie, the home of the Chesapeake Baysox."
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In Memoriam Dr. Calvin W. Rolark, Sr. Wilhelmina J. Rolark
5The Catherine Russell Quartet, featuring Russell and her bassist Tal Ronent, performing Thanksgiving weekend at Blues Alley in Georgetown. (Brenda C. Siler/ The Washington Informer)
LL COOL
AROUND THE REGION
Vice President Harris Celebrates Thanksgiving in the District
By Ashleigh Fields WI Contributing Writer
Vice President Kamala Harris and Second Gentleman Doug Emhoff spent the Thanksgiving weekend in the District uplifting local small businesses and serving families.
On Small Business Saturday, the pair stopped by Bold Forks Books, a culinary bookshop, in Northwest D.C., to browse. At one point, Harris picked up a copy of “Streamlined Cooking” by Irma S. Rombauer and posed with the collection of recipes published in 1939.
“Thank you to Clementine, Sam, and the whole team for showing us your amazing cookbook collection and for bringing joy and flavor to the community,” Harris posted online after the visit.
Days before the visit, Emhoff’s children, Ella and Cole spent Thanksgiving with the couple at DC Central Kitchen, where they helped the organization provide meals to over 69,000 residents. The second family was in charge of de-stemming the collard greens, which were declared a family specialty.
“This is not my first rodeo," Ella Emhoff said while prepping the greens.
Throughout the campaign trail, the vice president often bragged about her cooking skills and ability to make a tasty pot of collards, which she seasons with garlic and
LL COOL J from Page 4
acting career with music, he released chart-topping albums such as “Mama Said Knock You Out” (1990), which earned him his first Grammy Award, and “Mr. Smith” (1995), featuring hits like “Hey Lover” and “Doin’ It.”
His recent album, “The Frequencies of Real Creative Energy” (The FORCE), was inspired by a dream involving A Tribe Called Quest’s Phife Dawg.
“He came to me in a dream, and I decided to pivot and collaborate with Q-Tip,” the rapper explained, emphasizing the spiritual connection that
brown sugar.
The vice president’s sister, brother-in-law, niece and great nieces Maya Harris, Tony West, Meena Harris and her two daughters were also present for the family affair.
"Everything in this family is a competition," said Meena Harris, the vice president’s niece, while helping out.
Beyond the family’s competitive nature, Harris emphasized the reason behind her continued dedication to volunteering.
“Each time I visit DC Central Kitchen, I am inspired by the work they do to uplift this community. Thank you for giving our family the opportunity to give back on Thanksgiving,” Harris said after the visit.
After winning the 2020 election, then Vice President-elect Harris volunteered with DC Central Kitchen in the midst of COVID-19 relief efforts. This year, having just lost her bid to the presidency, she decided to return to help families in need and continue the post-election tradition.
“To have her come at the beginning of her time here in the White House and then bookend that with the end of her time here is incredibly special,” the organization’s CEO Mike Curtin told WUSA 9. “She made a point of saying that she wanted to be here at DC Central Kitchen with her family."
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shaped the project.
A social media user emphasized the path the rapper forged in the music and entertainment industry.
“You wouldn’t have Drake without LL Cool J, let’s be serious,” one person wrote on X (formerly known as Twitter).
As LL Cool J continues to thrive across music, acting, and business, his influence on hip- hop and culture remains undeniable.
“Being the first to do so many things in hip-hop has to put me in the G.O.A.T. conversation,” he said. “But ultimately, I’ll let history decide.”
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Shop at participating Healthy Corners stores in your community for fresh produce at fair prices brought to you by DC Central Kitchen.
5Vice President Kamala Harris serves families at DC Central Kitchen on the Thanksgiving holiday. (Courtesy Photo)
AROUND THE REGION
DEC. 5
1784 – Phyllis Wheatley, the first published African American female poet, dies in Boston at 31.
1931 – Singer James Cleveland, "The King of Gospel Music," is born in Chicago.
1932 – Music icon Little Richard is born in Macon, Georgia.
1935 – Mary McLeod Bethune founds National Council of Negro Women in New York City.
1957 – New York became the first city to legislate against racial or religious discrimination in the housing market with adoption of Fair Housing Practices Law.
DEC. 6
1932 – Richard B. Spikes patents the automatic gearshift.
1936 – Richard Francis Jones becomes first African American certified in urology.
1949 – Blues legend Huddie "Leadbelly" Ledbetter dies in New York City at 60.
1967 – Madame Lillian Evanti, famed African American opera singer, dies in Washington, D.C., at 77.
DEC. 7
1942 – Reginald Lewis, the first African American business owner to build a billion-dollar company, is born in Baltimore.
DEC. 8
1868 – Henry Hugh Proctor, a minister, author and lecturer who formed the basis for the Atlanta Music Festival, is born outside Fayetteville, Tenn. 1925 – Famed singer and entertainer Sammy Davis
DEC. 5 - 11, 2024
SOURCE: BLACK AMERICA WEB
Jr. is born in New York City.
DEC. 9
1872 – Pinckney Benton Stewart Pinchhack becomes the governor of Louisiana, the first African American to serve as governor of a U. S. state.
1922 – Comic legend Redd Foxx is born in St. Louis. 1972 – Ralph Bunche, the first African American to receive the Nobel Peace Prize, dies in New York City at 68.
DEC. 10
1963 – The East African territory of Zanzibar gains its independence from the United Kingdom.
1964 – Civil rights icon Martin Luther King Jr. receives the Nobel Peace Prize.
1967 – Soul singer Otis Redding dies in a plane crash near Madison, Wisconsin, along with four members of the Bar-Kays. Redding was 26.
2005 – Seminal comedian Richard Pryor dies in Los Angeles at 65 after a longtime battle with multiple sclerosis.
DEC. 11
1926 – R&B singer/songwriter Big Mama Thornton of "Hound Dog" fame is born in Ariton, Alabama.
1938 – Jazz pianist McCoy Tyner is born in Philadelphia. 1964 – Soul singer Sam Cooke is fatally shot by a motel manager in Los Angeles. He was 33.
LITTLE RICHARD
SAMMY DAVIS JR
AROUND THE REGION
view
P INT
BY MICHA GREEN
It’s the holiday season. A time for family, gifts, gatherings, and food, specifically desserts. What are your favorite holiday pies to enjoy this time of year?
DOREEN TEMPLETON / WASHINGTON, D.C.
Cheesecake with cherries!
BUTCH DEHART / LODI, CALIF.
Sweet potato pie, pumpkin pie, pecan, pie and apple pie!
ROBERT PHILLIPS / CINCINNATI, OHIO
TIMOTHY HARRINGTON / MILWAUKEE, WISC.
Pecan. However, mostly everyone in my family likes sweet potato pie.
The one and only sweet potato pie!
CALVIN KNIGHT / DALLAS, TEXAS
My mama's recipe for her buttermilk pies.
Our staff is made up of writers, just like you. We are dedicated to making publishing dreams come true. Trusted by authors for nearly 100 years, Dorrance has made countless authors’ dreams come true.
AROUND THE REGION
Safeway Feast of Sharing Celebrates 25 Years
By Micha Green WI Managing Editor
The day before Thanksgiving, the Walter E. Washington Convention Center transformed from a simple gathering and exhibition space, to a large site to engage with the community, provide warm meals, and spread joy, love and hope this holiday season for the 25th anniversary of Safeway’s Feast of Sharing.
“We feel we’re in the business of taking care of people, we just happen to sell groceries, and this is just another way during the holiday times that we can make people feel good,” said Safeway CEO Tom Lofland.
With two lunch servings at 11:15 and 12:15, the event – featuring thousands of Washingtonians, entertainers, politicians and community leaders in one place – came together through Safeway’s partnership with organizations such as Events DC, the Salvation Army, and Offices of the D.C. Mayor.
“For the past 25 years all of these groups have come together because they really see a need,” said Kallan Wentworth, director of major gifts and donor services with the Salvation Army National Capital Area.
“And we all just want to come together and take care of our vulnerable populations. It’s the season of giving and we don’t want anyone to be forgotten about.”
According to Feeding America,
Student volunteers pose
food insecurity affects more than 74,000 District residents, with one in nine adults and one in seven children in the nation’s capital facing hunger.
With more than 1,000 volunteers and even more attendees, the event was more than an opportunity to celebrate the holidays and offer meals and residents in need of a helping hand – it was a moment to emphasize the importance of community.
“The community is what Events DC has been built on. The community is the foundation of Events DC. We must give back, we must create a path forward for every resident in the District of Columbia,” said Events DC CEO Angie Gates.
The day was a true community effort — from volunteers coming together to feed the many residents, to cadets from the District of Columbia Fire and Emergency Services Department.
“We’re letting everybody get comfortable with each other,” said the D.C. Fire Department’s Sergeant Robert Wilson. “We engage with each other, and we also are first responders, so we’re always the first ones on the scene, and we [need to let the community] know the importance of our relationship with them.”
In addition to Thanksgiving meals, attendees were treated to programming and packages to help them this holiday season and beyond.
“Everyone who’s here today will get a dignified, warm, happy meal.
They’ll be able to enjoy some events such as ‘Sit and be Fit,’ [and] learn a little bit of health activities that they can do. They’re going home today with a coat [and] with a bag of food. So the community is really just coming together,” Wentworth told The Informer.
While the event included thousands of people from various demographics, the youth volunteers were critical to the success of the day.
Nyree Kirkland, a junior at Friendship Collegiate Academy came with some of her schoolmates to volunteer throughout the day.
While she was looking forward to getting community service hours for participating, Nyree enjoyed the opportunity “to just get out and be more active and connect with other people, and interact and be around the crowd.”
Kendyll Melton, an 11th grade vocal student at Duke Ellington School of the Arts, who sang the “Star Spangled Banner” to kickoff the event, shared why it was so significant to perform at the 25th anniversary Feast of Sharing.
“I am so excited to be able to sing at such a wonderful and wholesome event, helping those that are less fortunate,” said 16-year-old Kendyll.
As she reflected on the holiday and prepared to spend the day serving, Nyree offered words of wisdom.
“Just be grateful and love on people, because you never know when it could be your last time together.” WI
5Volunteers serve food at Safeway’s 25th Feast of Sharing at the Walter E. Washington Convention Center on Nov. 27.
(Micha Green/The Washington Informer)
6
post training for the 25th anniversary of the Feast of Sharing at the Walter E. Washington Convention Center on Nov. 27. (Micha Green/The Washington Informer)
5D.C. Council Chair Phil Mendelson speaks to the crowds at Safeway’s Feast of Sharing, joined by several D.C. Councilmembers to greet residents at the Washington Convention Center on Nov. 27. (Roy Lewis/The Washington Informer)
5Thousands of guests enjoy their meals during the Feast of Sharing at the Washington Convention Center on Nov. 27. (Roy Lewis/The Washington Informer)
5D.C. EMS Cadets performed a day of service serving food for guests during the Feast of Sharing at the Washington Convention Center on Nov. 27. (Roy Lewis/The Washington Informer)
5 D.C. Seniors Queens pose for a photo during the Feast of Sharing at the Washington Convention Center on Nov. 27. (Roy Lewis/The Washington Informer)
AROUND THE REGION
(Roy Lewis/The Washington Informer)
African American State Legislators Meet in D.C. Conference Emphasizes Black Empowerment, Whispers of Trump
By James Wright WI Staff Writer
As a relatively new member of the Maryland General Assembly (2023), Del. Ashanti Martinez (D-District 22) wants to learn everything he can about how to become an effective legislator and leader in Annapolis. That’s why, on Dec. 2, Martinez walked the halls, asked questions and soaked up all the knowledge he could during the National Black Caucus of State Legislators (NBCSL) 48th Annual Legislative Conference, which is taking place at the Capitol Hilton in Northwest, D.C. until Dec. 7.
“I am here to learn, talk and fellowship with fellow legislators from around the country about the issues that are affecting everyone,” said Martinez, 28, who became a delegate appointed by Maryland Gov. Wes Moore (D) after then-Del. Alonzo Washington became a state senator. “This is the only time we get to see other African American legislators.”
While the Dec. 2 session was relatively quiet with the NBCSL setting up and a few members present, Martinez will eventually be joined by more than 500 Black state legislators, policymakers and community leaders from across the nation. Together, they will tackle issues impacting African American neighborhoods and communities such as health, education, transportation, labor policy, diversity, equity and inclusion and justice.
“We very much look forward to hosting hundreds of state legislators to our conference because, now more than ever, we need to continue to engage in critical conversations and find creative solutions to ongoing challenges,” said NBCSL CEO LaKimba DeSadier. "This year’s theme, ‘Rebuilding the American Dream,’ underscores our commitment to uniting state legislators as catalysts for change, striving to make this vision attainable for all, especially Black constituents."
While there will be no formal workshops about the incoming Trump administration, both Martinez and DeSadier, 52, say the future president will be on the minds
and the subject of quiet conversations among the legislators.
THE ORIGIN AND OPERATION OF THE NBCSL
The National Black Caucus of State Legislators was founded in 1977, and since its inception the goal has been to empower African American leaders as they serve around the nation.
The organization started after a group of about 18 Black state lawmakers, attending the annual meeting of the National Conference of State Legislators—the trade association for state lawmakers— perceived the latter group as “racially exclusive” at the time. That’s when the Black legislators decided to call for a national conference in Nashville, Tennessee.
Nearly 90 state legislators attended the inaugural Nashville meeting. Michigan State Rep. Matthew Neeley was elected the organization’s first president. Since then, the NBCSL has grown to have lawmakers in 44 states, the District and the U.S. Virgin Islands, with 700 members representing 60 million Americans.
In the nation’s capital, D.C. Council members are eligible for NBCSL membership because the city operates and is managed largely as a state-level jurisdiction.
Further, the NBCSL, headquartered in Northwest, has passed two resolutions calling for D.C. statehood.
The organization meets in December in a preselected city and holds workshops and other events throughout the year to keep its members abreast of the latest developments in policy areas.
A key activity of the conference is to pass resolutions on various topics and issues— like the ones endorsing District statehood. When resolutions are passed, they are sent to the White House, members of Congress and state legislative and executive leaders.
“That is how the idea of making Dec. 1 ‘Rosa Parks Day’ got started,” said Alabama State Rep. Laura Hall (D-Huntsville), NBCSL president.
Maryland Del. Ashanti Martinez (D-District 22) represents Prince George’s County and is a member of the National Black Caucus of State Legislators. (Courtesy photo)
“I proposed the idea a few years ago, came to the NBCSL and they passed the resolution. Soon, other states such as Tennessee and Texas considered it. It all started here.”
BLACK HOUSE SPEAKERS TO BE HONORED
Hall said MSNBC’s Symone Sanders-Townsend will moderate a panel on Dec. 4 featuring seven Black State House Speakers, including Adrienne A. Jones of Maryland.
“We are honoring these individuals because it is an outstanding achievement to become the speaker of a House,” Hall said. “We have had few Blacks rise to that level. Their rise speaks volumes about their work, the respect they have among their colleagues and that they are good leaders.”
NBCSL ON NEW TRUMP ADMINISTRATION
DeSadier said the NBCSL is a bipartisan organization that consists of both Republicans and Democrats.
“We work with all administrations,” she said. “We are open to conversations with the new administration.”
Hall, 81, agreed with DeSadier on the organization’s stance on bipartisanship.
“We have members who are Republicans,” Hall said. “We respect their views and their positions on issues.” WI
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PRINCE GEORGE'S COUNTY
Prince George’s County Political Updates
By Richard Elliott WI Contributing Reporter
COUNCILMEMBER
IVEY REMAINS CHAIR, COUNCILMEMBER BURROUGHS
ELECTED VICE CHAIR
Following a series of deadlocked votes from the Prince Georges’ County Council during their final legislative meeting of the year on Dec. 3, Councilmember Jolene Ivey (D- District 5) will remain chair of the governing body, while Councilmember Edward Burroughs (D-District 8) was elected to serve as vice chair.
Although no member received majority votes, the council is free to elect a new chair during the new legislative session, a point noted by Councilmembers Tom Dernoga (DDistrict 1) and Krystal Oriadha (DDistrict 7).
Ivey emphasized she is dedicated to keep doing the work necessary for the county, council and Prince George’s residents.
“To serve this esteemed body as chair is deeply humbling and it is a responsibility I do not take lightly. As we face the looming budget challenges, I am committed to maintaining our AAA bond rating while meeting the needs of all,” said Ivey to conclude the meeting. “The coming year will require all hands on deck as we navigate all the challenges we did last year with the same resources, and more needs. We have the hardest working council and administrative staff. Congratulations on a productive legislative year.”
Both Ivey and Councilmember Calvin Hawkins (D- At Large) have announced their intent to run in the special election replacing outgoing County Executive Angela Alsobrooks (D).
Ivey will soon be elevated to the At-Large seat that she won on a Nov. 5 special election to replace Councilmember Mel Franklin, which will then trigger a special election for the District 5 seat she currently holds. The Council will remain at 10 members until that seat is filled.
While Ivey remains chair, that decision did not come without several steps.
Councilmember Wala Blegay (D- District 6) nominated Councilmember Eric Olson (D- District 3) for council chair, seconded by Councilmember Oriadha. Olson pledged to lead the Council in a fair manner, both the business community and vulnerable communities while partnering with the next county executive.
Councilmembers Blegay, Olson, Oriadha, Burroughs, and Dernoga voted in favor of Olson to lead the council.
“We need a leader of unity, someone who brings us all together, listens to all sides. He works with integrity, he will bring a unity among us, he will bring both sides together, and make sure that everyone has a seat at the table. Not just the Councilmembers, but all stakeholders. He is here to remind everyone that we need to work together as one body and I believe he is the best candidate at this time,” said Blegay. “No one should be chair by default.”
Councilmembers Wanika Fisher (D- District 2), Sydney Harrison (DDistrict 9), Ingrid Watson (D- District 4), and Ivey abstained.
Councilmember Calvin Hawkins (D- At Large) was the sole “no” vote.
Ivey was then nominated to serve as the Council Chair by Fisher and seconded by Harrison.
Blegay, who was also nominated for chair and received five votes, Burroughs, and Oriadha voted against
5
Dec. 3, Councilmember Jolene Ivey
District
Ivey’s nomination. Dernoga and Olson abstained.
Fisher, Harrison, Hawkins, Watson, and Ivey all voted to confirm her nomination. While this did not represent a majority vote, she remained council chair by default as no other candidate reached a majority vote.
Oriadha was originally nominated by Blegay to serve as vice chair, a motion seconded by Dernoga that also failed on a five-five split. Burroughs was elected to serve as vice chair with six votes, with Hawkins serving as the swing vote.
Fisher said she’s confident Ivey can continue leading the council effectively as chair.
“I have known Jolene for a long time. She's served us this year and she really saw us through hard times,” said Fisher. “I think we’ve gotten some bills done together and she will bring us together. At every challenge we’ve had, she’s faced them on.”
LEADERS PRIORITIZE BUSINESSES, WORKERS, CONSUMERS AS LEGISLATIVE SESSION COMES TO A CLOSE
As the close of this year’s legislative session approaches, the Prince George’s County Council has prioritized local businesses, workers and
consumers.
In an effort to combat the cost of living crisis and improve wages locally, the council agreed to index the minimum wage to inflation.
Maryland Center on Economic Policy research analyst Christopher Meyer presented data during the hearing to support the legislation’s potential benefits and said that tying minimum wage to cost-of-living would increase wages for nearly 44,000 workers by more than $20 million annually.
However, numerous disability advocates worried that the bill would negatively impact the direct service providers that so many county residents need.
“We simply have to work with what we are given,” said Rob Bayard, who chairs the Prince George’s Provider Council, a coalition of nonprofits. “A minimum-wage increase in the county will not result in the state increasing our rate. We’ve seen numerous people lose access to services simply because the organizations tasked with providing the support are not able to hire and retain staff to provide those services.”
In addition to minimum wage, the council passed legislation requiring businesses to keep their shopping carts on site and limiting the opening of new convenience stores.
With the increasing popularity of short and long term homestay properties, the council also passed a bill to create a short-term rental database for the Department of Permitting, Inspection, and Enforcement.
Christopher Meyer presented data during the hearing to support the legislation’s potential benefits and said that tying minimum wage to cost-of-living would increase wages for nearly 44,000 workers by more than $20 million annually.
“I am not the only council member who has been contacted by people in a neighborhood who are really being disturbed by the activities that are going on in a handful of Airbnbs or Vrbos, through these short-term rentals,” said Council Chair Jolene Ivey (D- District 5). “But there are those that are really problems in the community, and you need all the information that you can get in order to shut down that kind of disturbing activity.”
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Following a series of deadlocked votes from the Prince Georges’ County Council during their final legislative meeting of the year on
(D-
5) will remain chair of the governing body. (WI File Photo/Anthony Tilghman)
Prince George’s County Local Updates
By Richard Elliott WI Contributing Reporter
LAUREL RESIDENTS BEING FORCED TO MOVE DUE TO SAFETY CONCERNS
Residents from more than 100 units at Tiers of Laurel Lakes Condominiums were notified on Nov. 20 that they must leave their homes before Jan. 11, citing safety concerns regarding exterior staircases that haven’t been repaired or replaced.
While it is currently unclear when they would be able to come back to their homes in the Laurel Lakes community, residents will be able to return if repairs are made in time, according to a statement by the City of Laurel.
“We understand the challenges and disruptions this situation creates for the families affected, and these actions were not taken lightly," said Mayor Keith Sydnor. "However, when structural issues jeopardize lives, we must act decisively to protect public safety and enforce compliance with critical safety codes. The safety of our community cannot be compromised.”
Representatives from the Tiers of Laurel Lakes Homeowners Association (HOA) explained that the identified safety issues were first seen in a Dec. 2021 inspection, which cited 58 staircases needing repair or replacement.
Marcus Brooks, who leads the homeowner’s association, said these issues stemmed from bad management prior to him joining the board. He said the HOA is working with a contractor to make the requested repairs as quickly as possible.
"We are working diligently as a board and as a community to ensure that that deadline is met and that we have a place for all of us for the holidays," Brooks said.
Multiple residents have criticized the lack of notice or monetary support to move to new dwellings.
Two-year resident Dante Sanders said he will miss his neighbors
if forced to move.
Eric Harris, who has lived in the community for about three years, explained that a move would be “very tough.”
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LOCAL LEADERS, ORGANIZATIONS
GIVE BACK FOR THE HOLIDAYS
As the holiday season is in full swing, and with rising levels of food insecurity, local leaders and entrepreneurs are working to give back to the community.
Loads of cars formed a lengthy line leading to William Beanes Community Center in Hillcrest Heights, more than four hours before the start of Prince George’s Councilmember Krystal Oriadha’s (D- District 7) annual turkey and holiday giveaway on Sunday, Nov. 17.
“I sponsored this out of my own budget,” said Oriadha, according to WTOP. “We budgeted $10,000 for the event. I think it’s really important to me to give back. I think when I look at the resources they give us as a council member, the people should feel the impact of it. That to me, is the most important thing.”
Councilmember Sydney Harrison (D- District 9) hosted a food box giveaway at Surrattsville High School on Nov. 23, in partnership with the Coalition for Stronger Communities and Project Give Back. He cited 800 cars coming to receive a box.
On the same day, the Durant Family Foundation gave away 500 turkeys and food boxes in Forestville.
“I am a woman of faith. I am aware of the problem. But I am not afraid. Our stakeholders and community partners with a heart to serve have to come together and meet the need,” said Durant. “I know the God I serve will honor our compassion and heart for one another and make a way.”
Councilmember Ingrid S. Watson (D- District 4) hosted several giveaways across her legislative
PRINCE GEORGE’S COUNTY
district from Nov. 16 to Nov. 26 with stops at Glenn Dale’s Reid Temple, Upper Marlboro’s Fountain Community Enrichment and Greenbelt’s Springhill Lake.
In addition, Thompson Restaurants has partnered with the Northwest Federal Credit Union (NWFCU) Foundation to deliver donated meals to local shelters and organizations, including those serving women and children in Reston, Virginia and Rockville, Maryland.
NWFCU Foundation is a nonprofit dedicated to empowering youth through health, well-being, and education, while Thompson Restaurants is the largest minority-owned food service management company in America.
In Maryland, Thompson Restaurants include Milk and Honey and Matchbox, and the company also operates several food establishments in Washington D.C. and Virginia.
“We’re honored to work with the NWFCU Foundation to bring
McCullough Field. (Anthony Tilghman/The Washington Informer)
Thanksgiving meals to those who need them most,” said Warren Thompson, president and chairman of Thompson Hospitality.
“‘Thompson Gives Thanks’ is our
way of showing gratitude to the community that’s always been there for us. We want to make sure everyone has a seat at the table and a holiday meal to enjoy.” WI
5 Laurel residents participate in the Laurel Advocacy and Referral Services (LARS) Turkey Trot on Nov. 28, starting at Alice B.
BUSINESS
By James Wright / WI Staff Writer
“DIMINISHED RETURNS” DOCUMENTARY
A documentary “Diminished Returns: The Black Wealth Gap in Washington, D.C.” is gearing up for screenings at film festivals and to the public in 2025.
The documentary, which debuted in the District on Sept. 10, is a product of iF, A Foundation for Radical Possibility and is directed and written by Sabiyah Prince, a cultural anthropologist.
“I wanted to bring together social science with filmmaking,” Prince, 65, said. “So much harm has been done to the Black community in Washington. Poverty is a key area. It is important to note that in terms of wealth, the Black middle class is not equal to white middle class.”
The documentary talks about the District as a city of contrasts, distinguishing elites from the working class,
briefs
the native from the newcomers, where intrinsic economic disparities exist alongside a rich history of Black culture and resilience. The film notes that for centuries, Black residents have faced systemic barriers rooted in the legacies of enslavement, segregation, and serial displacement, all of which have contributed to the Black wealth gap that exists.
According to U.S. census data, the median net worth of white households in the area is $284,000 — 81 times the median savings and assets of Black households. Wage theft, housing discrimination, and economic injustice have only widened the gap.
This staggering difference has profound implications for the quality of life, economic stability, and future opportunities of Black residents, according to the documentary.
The documentary features District leaders such as D.C. Councilmember Kenyan McDuffie (I-At Large), historian G. Derek Musgrove and anti-mass
incarceration activist Tony Lewis Jr., talking about how the racial wealth gap negatively impacts Blacks economically, politically and socially. WI
2024 WASHINGTON BUSINESS HALL OF FAME INDUCTEES
The Washington Business Hall of Fame – Greater Washington's signature lifetime achievement award in business – welcomed its 2024 class of Laureates during a gala held at The Anthem in Southwest.
The Washington Business Hall of Fame (Hall of Fame) recognizes the achievements of Greater Washington’s most accomplished leaders and celebrates their impact on the local economy, surrounding communities, and overall quality of life. The 2024 Hall of Fame Laureates join nearly 200 leaders who have received this honor since the Hall of Fame began 36 years ago.
They are:
• Rosie Allen-Herring: president and chief executive officer, United Way of the National Capital Area
• Nate Davis: retired chairman and CEO, Stride Learning, Inc.
• Geoffrey Pohanka: chairman, Pohanka Automotive Group
• Kevin C. Virostek: retired Greater Washington Managing partner, EY
The Washington Business Hall of Fame benefits Junior Achievement of Greater Washington, whose mission is to inspire and prepare young people to succeed in a global economy.
The 2024 Hall of Fame raised $1.6 million to support the organization’s work to provide students with the skillset, mindset, and connections to build thriving communities.
“As an educator, I experienced firsthand the transformative impact of Junior Achievement,” said Monica Goldson, Ed.D., incoming president &
CEO, Junior Achievement of Greater Washington. “Their programs captivate students and prepare them for the workforce. Now, as I take on the role of president and CEO, I am honored to lead this essential mission of empowering students with the skills to succeed in their careers, enrich their communities, and lead meaningful lives.” WI
ROBINHOOD LAUNCHES FIRST HBCU PARTNERSHIP AT HOWARD UNIVERSITY
Robinhood, the popular financial app, has partnered with Howard University as the first historically Black college and university (HBCU) participant for its Money Drills program, extending comprehensive financial education to student-athletes.
The partnership, announced earlier this month at Howard's campus, underscores the critical need to advance financial inclusion and build generational wealth within historically underserved communities.
The initiative comes at a crucial time when college athletes are navigating new opportunities to profit from their name, image, and likeness (NIL) rights. Howard University becomes the ninth Division I institution to join the Money Drills program, which has already demonstrated success at other universities nationwide.
"Technology serves as a powerful democratizing force in the financial system," said Mary Elizabeth Taylor, vice president of Global Government and External Affairs at Robinhood Markets. "Money Drills is yet another way Robinhood is driving financial education in innovative ways, and we are thrilled to collaborate with our first HBCU."
While Howard marks Robinhood's first HBCU partnership, company officials expressed their commitment to expanding the Money Drills program to additional HBCUs nationwide, furthering their mission of democratizing financial education across diverse academic communities.
Times Square
• Broadway
• Macy’s @ Herald Square
• Schomburg Center Black Museum*
Saturday, December 14, 2024 | Time: 8:30am-11pm | $135pp
Rsvp: bbhtours@gmail.com
TEL: 443.983.7974
Lou
REQUEST FOR PROPOSALS STRATEGIC PLAN
Academy of Hope Adult PCS in Washington, DC seeks proposals for Retention Wall construction, demolition, and site preparation. Full RFP details and submission instructions are available at aohdc.org/get-involved/jobs. Proposals are due 12/6/2024.
The announcement event featured Howard Athletics Director Kery Davis, Howard School of Business Dean Anthony Wilbon, former NFL player Brandon Copeland, and Washington Wizards alumnus Etan Thomas. Students participated in financial education workshops led by Planned To a T, featuring guest lectures from Copeland.
The program's launch at Howard addresses a critical need in professional sports, where financial difficulties after retirement are common. Studies show that 16% of NFL players file for bankruptcy within 12 years of retiring, while 60% of NBA players face financial hardship after their careers end.
WI
Read more on washingtoninformer.com.
5A panel discussion on the documentary “Diminished Returns: The Black Wealth Gap in Washington, D.C.” at The Gathering Spot in Northwest, D.C. on Sept. 10, with writer and director Sabiyha Prince; Temi F. Bennett, Co-CEO of iF, A Foundation for Radical Possibility, and the film’s executive producer; and Aja Taylor, Bread for the City advocacy director. (Courtesy Photo)
Prince George’s County Business Updates
By Richard Elliott WI Contributing Reporter
COUNTY WELCOMES NEW BUSINESSES
INCLUDING BBQ, FASHION BOUTIQUE
Several new businesses have opened across Prince George’s County, with more soon to come.
The grand opening of Prince George’s first Roaming Rooster will be held at Glenarden’s Woodmore Towne Center on Dec. 5 at noon, where the first 100 customers will receive a free chicken sandwich.
The restaurant, started by three Ethiopian immigrants, began as a food truck in 2015 and celebrated the opening of their first brickand-mortar in 2018.
“We are excited to open our doors at Woodmore Towne Center and share our passion for great food and exceptional service with this vibrant community,” said a spokesperson for Roaming Rooster.
The nearly 2,500 square foot location will employ an estimated team of 40 employees.
“This grand opening represents more than just another location; it’s a celebration of our journey and the people who make it all possible—our loyal customers, dedicated team members, and the strong collaboration with Urban Edge Properties,” the spokesperson said. “We are grateful for the support of the community, and everyone involved in making this expansion a reality.”
The Pit Stop BBQ has officially opened in Upper Marlboro on Brown Station Road, and will be open on Thursdays, Fridays, Saturdays and Sundays from 11 a.m. to 7 p.m., or until sold out. The restaurant promises smooth R&B alongside their signature ribs, brisket, and smoked salmon.
“All of the smoked meats are marinated for hours before they’re cooked on authentic outdoor grills,” read a social media post to promote the barbecue joint.
WI
5 Pit Stop BBQ now operates on Brown Station Road in Upper Marlboro, Maryland. They specialize in ribs and brisket, and have a second location in Virginia. (Robert R. Roberts/The Washington Informer)
NATIONAL
Trump’s Narrow Popular Vote Victory Fuels Questions of Mandate, Rising Emigration Interest
By Stacy M. Brown WI Senior Writer
Donald Trump’s return to the presidency has ignited debates about his legitimacy and a surge of interest in emigration.
While Trump won all seven swing states and secured the presidency, his share of the popular vote—49.83%—places him among the least popular modern American presidents. His 1.55% margin over Vice President Kamala Harris falls far short of historical landslides like Lyndon B. Johnson’s 1964 triumph, where Johnson won 61.1% of the popular vote.
Further, with a growing number of Trump voters expressing buyer’s remorse, many political analysts have questioned whether the election victory reflects broad public
support for his policies.
“If there ever was a mandate, this isn’t it,” Georgetown University political scientist Hans Noel told MSN News.
Earlier projections showing Trump winning as much as 53% of the popular vote have proven inaccurate and have added further scrutiny to claims of a sweeping mandate.
Cornell University professor Peter Enns, whose model accurately predicted Trump’s swing state victories, said economic dissatisfaction during Joe Biden’s presidency played a key role in voter decisions.
“If this election can be explained by what voters thought of Biden and Harris and economic conditions, it really goes against the notion of a mandate for major change from Trump,” Enns told The Guardian.
INVITATION FOR BIDS – DCHFA-25-0013
Staff Augmentation
Loan Closer and Post-Closer
The District of Columbia Housing Finance Agency is seeking the services of a contractor to provide the above services.
The IFB can be found at www.DCHFA.org/about/business-opportunities. Deadline for submission of bids is December 11, 2024, at 2:00 p.m.
5 Donald Trump’s return to the presidency has ignited debates about his legitimacy and a surge of interest in emigration, with many Americans looking for opportunities to live abroad. (Courtesy Photo)
AMERICANS EXPLORE EMIGRATION IN DROVES
In the wake of Trump’s win, many Americans have begun looking for opportunities abroad.
Google reported a 1,270% spike in searches for “move to Canada” as polls closed on the East Coast. Queries about moving to New Zealand climbed nearly 2,000%, while those for Australia rose 820%. According to Google data, searches for emigration had reached historic levels.
Immigration lawyers across North America have been inundated with inquiries.
“Every half hour, there’s a new email enquiry,” said Evan Green, managing partner at Green and Spiegel, Canada’s oldest immigration law firm.
Green noted that clients’ concerns extend beyond Trump himself to broader societal divisions.
“The majority of Americans voted for him, and some people don’t feel comfortable living in that kind of society anymore. People are afraid they are going to lose freedoms.”
HIGH-PROFILE FIGURES JOIN
THE EXODUS
Several celebrities have also signaled plans to leave the United States.
Sharon Stone intends to move her family to Canada, while America Ferrera is reportedly eyeing the U.K. as a new home base.
Minnie Driver has announced plans to leave Los Angeles for the U.K., citing discomfort with the country’s political direction. Whoopi Goldberg, Cardi B, and Elon Musk’s daughter Vivian Wilson are among others expressing interest in relocating.
For those seeking guidance, destinations such as Panama City, Budapest, Belize, and Phuket, Thailand, are being recommended for American expats. The locations reportedly offer affordable living and pathways to residency.
DIASPORA CITIZENSHIP IN GHANA
In Ghana, the African diaspora is reconnecting with its roots.
On Nov. 19, 524 diaspora members received Ghanaian citizenship during a landmark Accra International Conference Centre ceremony. The event, part of President Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo’s ongoing efforts to strengthen ties with the diaspora, builds on the success of the 2019 “Year of Return” campaign.
“Your ancestors left these shores under tragic and inhumane circumstances," Akufo-Addo exclaimed. "Today, we reclaim that connection by welcoming you as part of our Ghanaian family.”
Earlier projections showing Trump winning as much as
53% of
the popular vote have proven inaccurate and have added further scrutiny to claims of a sweeping mandate.
He reminded attendees that the initiative goes beyond symbolism, providing tangible opportunities for the diaspora to shape Africa’s future.
“Being Ghanaian is about embracing values such as respect, equity, and peace,” Akufo- Addo said. “These principles are at the heart of our identity, and we invite you to embody them as you integrate into our society.”
WI @StacyBrownMedia
Democratic Senators Urge Biden to Restrict Military Deployment, Citing Concerns Over Trump’s Plans
By Stacy M. Brown WI Senior Writer
Senators Elizabeth Warren (D-Mass.) and Richard Blumenthal (D-Conn.) have called on President Joe Biden and Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin to issue a directive limiting the use of military personnel for domestic purposes, warning against potential misuse by President-elect Donald Trump after he takes office on Jan. 20.
The senators stressed the importance of clear guidelines to prevent the military from being deployed against American citizens without explicit constitutional or congressional authorization.
The request is rooted in the Posse Comitatus Act, which prohibits using federal troops in domestic law enforcement unless authorized by the Constitution or Congress.
While the Insurrection Act provides a narrow exception in cases of insurrection, rebellion, or extreme unrest, Warren and Blumenthal called for further restrictions to prevent abuse.
“Any deployment of federal forces must occur only when state or local authorities are overwhelmed and unable to ensure public safety,” the senators wrote.
The senators’ letter notes growing concerns over Trump’s rhetoric and past actions.
During his first term, Trump considered invoking the Insurrection Act to respond to Black Lives Matter protests, and some allies urged him to declare martial law after his 2020 election defeat. More recently, Trump has suggested using the military to deport immigrants without permanent legal status and relocating troops from overseas to the southern border.
5 The Biden administration is being urged to issue a directive limiting the use of military personnel for domestic purposes, warning against potential misuse by President-elect Donald Trump after he takes office on Jan. 20. (Courtesy Photo)
SATURDAY DECEMBER 7, 2024
Anacostia Park 8 am-11am
In an interview with Fox News before the election, Trump said: “I think the bigger problem are the people from within. We have some very bad people. We have some sick people, radical left lunatics. And I think they’re the — and it should be very easily handled by — if nec essary, by National Guard or, if really necessary, by the military.”
The senators’ offices said their letter speaks for itself but appeared aimed at drawing public attention to the issue in hopes of deterring Trump from reversing any directive issued by Biden.
“The Constitution is clear, and it is essential that we uphold the rule of law and protect the rights of all Americans,” they wrote. Read more on washingtoninformer.com. @StacyBrownMedia
Biden Pardons Hunter, Sparking Republican Outrage and Questions of Hypocrisy
WI Senior Writer @StacyBrownMedia
President Joe Biden’s pardon of his son, Hunter Biden, has thrown the Republican Party into an uproar, exposing what critics have called brazen hypocrisy within the GOP.
Biden justified the pardon as a response to politically motivated attacks, while Republicans, many of whom have stood by President-elect Donald Trump despite his extensive legal troubles, unleashed their fury.
Trump spokesperson Steven Cheung accused Biden of undermining justice.
“The failed witch hunts against President Trump have proven that the Democrat-controlled DOJ and other radical prosecutors are guilty of weaponizing the justice system,” Cheung said. “That system of justice must be fixed, and due process must be restored for all Americans.”
Trump, a 34-times convicted felon who has promised to pardon January 6 rioters, wasted no time weighing in on Biden’s move. “Does the Pardon given by Joe to Hunter include the J-6 Hostages, who have now been imprisoned for years? Such an abuse and miscarriage of Justice,” Trump posted on Truth Social.
Despite criticism, Trump also selected Rep. Matt Gaetz as head of the DOJ despite the Florida congressman’s myriads of legal woes that include allegations of statutory rape.
In trying to push Gaetz’ candidacy through, Georgia GOP Rep. Marjorie Taylor Greene proclaimed last month that there are many Republicans with criminal skeletons in their closets.
Despite Trump’s 91 criminal charges, 34 convictions, adjudicated sexual assault civil conviction, and civil liabilities, Republican leaders took aim at Biden. Rep. Andy Biggs (R) of Arizo-
na declared on X, “Biden will go down as one of the most corrupt presidents in American history.”
Republican Rep. James Comer of Kentucky, who chairs the House Oversight Committee and has made Hunter Biden a central focus of his investigations, accused Biden of shielding his family from accountability.
“Rather than come clean about their decades of wrongdoing, President Biden and his family continue to do everything they can to avoid accountability,” Comer wrote on X.
Sen. Chuck Grassley (R) of Iowa expressed regret, stating, “I’m shocked [President] Biden pardoned his son Hunter because he said many times he wouldn’t and I believed him. Shame on me.”
Sen. Tom Cotton (R) of Arkansas claimed the decision would erode public trust in the justice system, even as Trump’s legal trou-
bles remain unprecedented.
In his statement, Biden pointed to what he called “raw politics” driving his son’s prosecution.
“No reasonable person who looks at the facts of Hunter’s cases can reach any other conclusion than Hunter was singled out only because he is my son –and that is wrong,” Biden said.
He went on to describe the toll the years-long attacks have taken on his family.
“In trying to break Hunter, they’ve tried to break me – and there’s no reason to believe it will stop here. Enough is enough,” Biden declared.
WI
Dreaming of homeownership?
5 Republican leaders are criticizing President Joe Biden’s decision to pardon his son Hunter Biden, sparking questions of hypocrisy after their continued support of President-elect Donald Trump. (WI File Photo)
What are some ways to bridge the gap between community and healthcare systems to advance health equity?
In the US, Black women are disproportionately affected by HIV and breast cancer.
A conversation with health experts in HIV and oncology on how policy can advance health equity.
Dr. Oni Blackstock Executive Director of Health Justice
Health equity is the absence of unfair, avoidable, and remediable differences in health status among groups of people Health equity is achieved when everyone can attain their full potential for health and well-being 2
Did you know? In the US, your zip code can cause up to a 20-year difference in your life expectancy. 3
Beyond the inequities that result based on changes in zip code alone, Black women continue to be disproportionately impacted by HIV, accounting for 52% of new HIV diagnoses in U.S. women in 2022, despite only making up 13% of women.
Focus on HIV
In a recent discussion with Dr Oni Blackstock about the inequities that exist in HIV in the US, Dr Blackstock shared that “for HIV in particular, when we see its disproportionate impact on black and Latinx communities, much of it is driven by larger structural factors”
Focus on Breast Cancer
In the US, Black women with breast cancer have a 40% higher mortality rate compared to their white counterparts If that isn’t proof enough of the vast inequities that exist, Haylee Brown Buxton Punch shares that “Black breast cancer cells are now proven to look different, and therefore we have to attack them through different ways ”
Making Progress Together
Health Equity Priorities
1. Diverse clinical research. Ricki Fairley shared that there aren’t enough Black women represented in research for them to get the drugs they need to work on their bodies
2. Activate Gen Z in the HIV movement. Nina Giddens shared the importance of continuing to activate the younger population to think about HIV sooner.
A panel of HIV and oncology health experts shared ways that health inequities –particularly health inequities among Black women in the US - must be addressed.
Ultimately, this work is critical towards bridging the gap between community and our healthcare systems to advance health equity in the US. 5
References:
3. Focus on policy. Dr Blackstock shared that by focusing on policy, we can improve access to the resources and tools that are available
1 Gilead Advancing Health Equity Video November 2024 2 World Health Organization Health equity and its determinants 2021
3 https://www cityhealthdashboard com/blog-media/1107 4 AIDSVu Fact Sheet Black Women and HIV 2022
5 https://www cancer org/research/acs-research-news/breastcancer-death-rates-are-highest-for-b ack-women-again html 2024 Gilead Sciences All rights reserved
4. Build trust. Dr Nadine Barrett shared that it isn’t just about the healthcare system building trust with our communities – but rather that our healthcare system needs to become more trustworthy, so it can earn the trust of our communities
Dr. Nadine Barrett Senior Associate Dean, Atrium Health
Valerie Worthy Nurse Navigator, Duke Cancer Institute
Haylee Brown Buxton Punch Director of Programs and Partnerships, TOUCH
n Business Cards
n Banners
n Canvas Bags
n Color Copies
n Contracts & Vouchers
n Church Fans
n Fax &
n Posters & Signs n Tithe Envelopes
World AIDS Day Panel Highlights Progress, Challenges in Fight Against HIV While There’s
Substantial Progress, Much Work Still to Do
By Mya Trujillo WI Contributing Writer
In honor of World AIDS Day (Dec. 1), the Stephen Lewis Foundation, an organization that supports the battle against HIV/AIDS in sub-Saharan Africa, hosted a virtual panel on Dec. 2. Held in partnership with Swaziland Action Group Against Abuse (SWAGAA), Wells of Hope and the Women’s International Peace Centre (WIPC), speakers discussed current challenges, stigma and ways to combat the HIV/AIDS epidemic affecting some of Africa’s most at risk residents.
In 2023, women and girls in sub-Saharan Africa were the most vulnerable population to the illness, accounting for 62% of all new HIV infections.
“When people in need of services are confronted with stigma and discrimination, when girls are denied education, when there’s gender-based violence and when people can be arrested for who they are or who they love, the result is people in need of HIV prevention,” said Angeli Achrekar, deputy director of the Joint United Nations Programme on HIV/AIDS (UNAIDS), during the program.
She noted there are countries that still require immense aid, as 9.3 million of the 40 million people living with HIV are still in need of better resources to care for patients.
“Treatment services are blocked from care,” Achrekar explained.
While there are still challenges, AIDS deaths worldwide have plummeted 70% since their peak in the early 1990s.
To continue propelling statistics in a positive direction, organizations and world leaders are working to address the human rights issues present in their respective nations in order to provide access to preventative resources.
While HIV/AIDs affects every country differently, the fight to mitigate its threat is a combined global effort.
WORK IN ESWATINI:
‘WE DON’T WANT TO LOSE THE GAINS WE’VE MADE AS A COUNTRY’
Based in the southern African nation Eswatini— the country most ravaged by HIV/AIDS, with 27.9% of its adult
5 Since 1988, World AIDS Day has been celebrated to strengthen global solidarity in the fight against HIV/AIDS, remember the 42 million lives lost to the disease, and reflect on measures necessary to mitigate the epidemic’s effects. Many wear a red ribbon as a physical display of their support.
(Courtesy Photo)
population infected— SWAGAA raises awareness about gender-based violence and its implications on the local community.
“[Gender-based violence] is a cause in the sense that once HIV positive, some people are subjected to violence because of their HIV status,” SWAGAA Executive Director Nonhlanhla Dlamini said. “And also, we have people who through violence… get infected with HIV.”
Despite the high percentage of HIV cases in Eswatini, the country has made significant progress in its plight against the epidemic. Eswatini recently reached the 95-95-95 target, meaning: 95% of the population living with HIV is aware of their status, 95% of those aware are receiving treatment, and 95% of people in treatment are virally suppressed.
Although there’s been improvement in Eswatini, HIV infection rates have multiplied among the country’s young people. Now, SWAGAA’s goal is to reach the country’s youth.
“Young people are [more] scared of being pregnant than contracting HIV,” said Dlamini. “We want to try and work with those young people [...] and make them understand that HIV is still there and that we don’t want to lose the gains we’ve made as a country.”
WORK IN UGANDA: ‘THEY KNOW IT’S NOT THEM ALONE'
In Uganda, Wells of Hope is working toward providing more access to treatment and preventative measures
to its inmates, the population estimated to be the most affected by HIV in the country.
Approximately 15% of men and 24% of women incarcerated in Uganda suffer from HIV/AIDS, according to The Uganda National Medical Alliance for Prisoners’ Support (TUNMAPS).
Wells of Hope Deputy Executive Director Marjorie Lunkuse Lwanga has witnessed great change as access to information and resources has increased in the 16 years the Stephen Lewis Foundation has supported her organization.
Increased distribution of food supplements for infected inmates and sensitization training for their families to debunk misconceptions about the disease have contributed to less discrimination against and death among HIV-positive patients while boosting their physical and mental health. Also based in Uganda, the Women’s International Peace Centre is working to diminish the shame women and youth may feel surrounding HIV, as many have contracted the virus through sexual violence. By building victims’ confidence and reminding them they are worthy of love, the feminist organization has pushed many women to become leaders within their communities who provide counseling, food and information.
“This provides them an opportunity to be a part of the decision-making table,” said WIPC Deputy Executive Director Juliet Were. “This has boosted their capacity and confidence because they know it’s not them alone. There are also other women championing that cause, and in a way, reenergizing them and contributing to movement building.”
She desires an expansion of informative campaigns in Uganda to reach more adolescents who may be affected by HIV/AIDS.
Dlamini agrees, as infection rates have multiplied among Eswatini’s youth.
“Young people are [more] scared of being pregnant than contracting HIV,” said Dlamini. “We want to try and work with those young people [...] and make them understand that HIV is still there and that we don’t want to lose the gains we’ve made as a country.” WI
DIRECTOR
CHARON P.W. HINES
Dear DC Seniors,
Happy Holidays! As 2024 comes to a close, I want to take a moment to reflect on the incredible year we have shared and spread some holiday warmth to the amazing seniors living boldly here in the District. Last month, I had a chance to see so many of you at Safeway’s Feast of Sharing and it was truly a joy. We laughed, talked, and danced together, creating cherished memories of our community's strength and vibrancy. Events like these embody the spirit of togetherness that defines our mission at the Department of Aging and Community Living (DACL).
As the holiday season pro-
Live Boldly -December 2024 Message from Department of Aging and Community Living
gresses, I encourage you to check on your neighbors and friends. This time of year can feel isolating for some, and a simple phone call or visit can brighten someone’s day. Let’s continue to lift each other up and spread warmth and connection across our communities. Another way to stay connected during the holidays and beyond is through our DACL app. The app features easy access to vital services like Adult Protective Services and 311, and updates on the latest DACL events around the city. Be sure to download it and stay engaged with everything we offer.
In the spirit of connection and celebration, I am thrilled to invite you to Mayor Muriel Bowser’s 26th Annual Senior Holiday Celebration! Open to DC residents aged 60 and older, this event promises a day full of holiday cheer, entertainment, delicious food, and opportunities to connect with other DC Government agencies and resources. Join us at the DC Armory (2001 East Capitol Street SE, Washington, DC 20003) on Wednesday, December 11, 2024, from 10:00 AM to 2:00 PM (doors open at 9:00 AM). We invite you to RSVP at your earliest convenience to ensure you do not miss out on this fantastic holiday festivity. To RSVP, register at www. tinyurl.com/holidaycelebration26 or call our office at 202-724-5626 for assistance.
As we say farewell to 2024, I want to express my heartfelt gratitude to all of you for making 2024 such a remarkable year. Your engagement, feedback, and support fuel our mission and inspire us to
serve you better every day. Whether attending our events or connecting with us in your communities, you, the seniors of the District, are truly the heart of our city.
I often tell my team and DC seniors: “Without you, there is no us.” As we head into 2025, I invite you to continue sharing your thoughts, ideas, and needs with us. Together, we will ensure that you continue to Live Boldly in the years ahead.
Wishing you a joyous holiday season and a prosperous new year!
In Service, Charon P.W. Hines
I often tell my team and DC seniors: “Without you, there is no us.” As we head into 2025, I invite you to continue sharing your thoughts, ideas, and needs with us. Together, we will ensure that you continue to Live Boldly in the years ahead.
AmeriHealth Caritas DC Grants $100k To Children’s Law Center
Legal Nonprofit Fights To Improve Health Outcomes of District Children
By Lindiwe Vilakazi WI Health Reporter
Across the District, hundreds of children fall victim to adverse childhood experiences (ACEs) that can often hamper educational, safety, housing, behavioral and health outcomes.
Through an innovative medical-legal partnership, Amerihealth Caritas DC is working in tandem with Children’s Law Center to provide legal
advocacy services aimed to reduce housing and health related ACEs and strengthen District families and communities overall.
On Oct. 23, AmeriHealth Caritas Foundation awarded Children’s Law Center a $100k grant to help bolster the organization’s support toward some of the city’s most vulnerable families.
“Children’s Law Center not only helps children and families navigate
BM-Rapha Healthcare Co.
individual legal barriers, but is also a strong proponent of meaningful changes across all the systems that impact the lives of children across the District, such as: foster care, housing, education and children’s behavioral health,” said AmeriHealth Caritas District of Columbia Market President Karen Dale.
The services offered through the partnership, will help AmeriHealth enrollees when poor housing conditions trigger life-threatening asthma attacks in children.
According to the Children’s Law Center, children living in unhealthy housing, particularly in lower-income areas like Wards 7 and 8, are 20 times more likely to end up in the emergency room due to asthma triggers stemming from poor housing conditions, compared to children growing up in wealthier neighborhoods like Ward 3.
In an effort to bridge access to the Children’s Law Center network of lawyers, the nonprofit organization partners with institutions throughout the city to provide legal services in roughly eight different community health clinics with a lawyer on the ground.
Their additional partnerships include Children’s National Health System’s primary care clinics including THEARC, Anacostia, and Shaw-Howard, two Unity Health Care sites, and Mary’s Center’s Fort Totten location.
Under the circumstance of a child experiencing health implications due to poor housing conditions, AmeriHealth care managers will refer that child’s family members, who are AmeriHealth enrollees, to the Chil-
understand that poor education outcomes go along with poor health outcomes in the long term, so we get a lot of those referrals as well as physical health issues related to education.”
According to a report by the Data Resource Center for Child & Adolescent Health: “School performance goes hand-in-hand with ACEs. Compared to school-aged kids with [two plus] ACEs, those with no ACEs are 1.3 times more likely to be engaged in school [and three] times less likely to repeat a grade.”
Further, the report reveals children with ACEs are more likely to have chronic health problems and parents who also battle poor health.
“For instance, those with [two] or more ACEs are [two] times more likely to have chronic conditions, and [five] times less likely to have a mother in good health,” the report states.
dren’s Law Center staff.
At that point, the attorneys proceed to converse with those families to understand their living conditions and what needs to be addressed. Once determined, attorneys then work to hold landlords accountable to fix poor housing conditions or relocate the residents to safer, quality homes.
“We embed [a] lawyer on [each] medical team and solve problems that really can't be solved by medicine,” Judith Sandalow, executive director of Children’s Law Center, told the Informer.
IMPROVING HEALTH OUTCOMES FOR AT-RISK CHILDREN
While Children’s Law Center aims to reduce asthma-related emergency room visits among District children, the nonprofit organization also tackles a host of other adverse childhood experiences across the city including; special education needs, abuse, and neglect cases.
Sandalow highlighted the organization’s efforts to represent diabetic children, often sent to hospitals for care due to a lack of available nurses to manage the condition within their school.
Similarly, cases of pediatric referrals for asthmatic children call for legal interventions to address housing conditions for potential mold or infestations in the home, that goes beyond the parent’s control of care.
“A lot of the work we get is special education, so, kids who are not having their educational needs met,” Sandalow explained. “Pediatricians
Beyond the scope of health, which also includes cases of mental and substance disorders, Children’s Law Center has represented youth residing in households involving custody disputes due to domestic violence or a parent being incarcerated and a family member may be needed to step in.
But despite the nature of these cases, Sandalow underscores the mission of Children’s Law Center and AmeriHealth’s partnership, is to help support families who are faced with challenges beyond their bandwidth of resources. While people commonly question parents for the varying adversities their children face, Children’s Law Center understands that many are doing the very best they can with the circumstances they are dealt.
“The way we think about it is that parents are walking around with this massive burden of poverty, trauma, and racism on their shoulders, and our job is to help lift that burden off of their shoulders,” Sandalow said. “That often takes the form of housing or education, because one of the big burdens is, if a child is not doing well, school is stressful on a parent.”
Children’s Law Center aims to reform the city's behavioral health system as a whole, helping families across the city with a keen focus on supporting children’s physical and behavioral health issues that their parents are seeking help for.
“All kinds of things, which I like to say, ‘rich people can buy their way out of,’ people without money can't. That is a huge part of the work we do.” WI
5 AmeriHealth Caritas District of Columbia Market President Karen Dale (left) and AmeriHealth Caritas Foundation Director Lauren Maloney (right) join Children’s Law Center Executive Director Judith Sandalow (center) to celebrate the $100,000 investment, which will help Children’s Law Center support children and families through direct and systemic advocacy. (Courtesy Photo)
Coping With Seasonal Affective Disorder
Submitted by AmeriHealth Caritas District of Columbia
As winter approaches, the colder temperatures and shorter days can bring more than just a change in the weather. For many, the season also marks the onset of seasonal affective disorder (SAD), a type of depression that occurs during certain seasons, usually fall or winter.1 SAD is characterized by sadness, tiredness, and a general lack of motivation.
WHAT CAUSES SEASONAL AFFECTIVE DISORDER?
SAD is closely linked to reduced exposure to sunlight during the colder months. The exact cause of SAD is unknown, but less sunlight and shorter days are thought to be linked to a chemical change in the brain.2 Sunlight helps your brain produce serotonin, a chemical that affects mood, sleep, and appetite. Common symptoms of SAD include:3
• Feeling depressed most of the day, nearly every day
• Losing interest in activities you once enjoyed
• Low energy and tiredness
• Having problems concentrating
• Changes in sleep patterns, such as oversleeping
• Changes in appetite, particularly craving carbohydrates
• Weight gain As a result of the COVID-19 pandemic, limited social interactions, economic concerns, and mental health challenges have taken on new forms. Many people report feeling more isolated and disconnected from friends and family, which can worsen SAD symptoms.
TIPS FOR MANAGING SAD
Managing SAD starts with simple, effective strategies to lift your mood and boost your energy during the months of reduced sunlight, such as:
• Light therapy. One of the
most effective treatments for SAD is light therapy. Using a light box that mimics natural sunlight for approximately 20 – 30 minutes each morning can help boost mood and regulate sleep patterns.
• Staying active. Although the cold weather can make it harder to get outside, try to include movement in your daily routine. Even short walks during daylight hours can help increase exposure to natural light and release endorphins.
• Maintaining a consistent sleep schedule. A regular sleep schedule is key to maintaining a stable mood. Avoid oversleeping, which can make you feel groggy and more tired.
• Staying connected. Prioritize social connections, whether in-person or virtual. Regular interactions with loved ones can reduce feelings of isolation and help lift your mood.
RESOURCES
If you’re struggling with SAD, it’s important to seek help. Talk to your primary care provider or a mental health professional who can help determine the best course of treatment. Some useful resources include:
• National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI). NAMI provides information and support on a variety of mental health conditions, including SAD.
• 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline. The 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline provides free and confidential emotional support to people in suicidal crisis or emotional distress 24 hours a day, seven days a week, across the United States and its territories.4
As we head into winter, remember that you’re not alone. Seasonal affective disorder is a real and treatable condition, and by adopting healthy habits and reaching out for support, you can improve your mental health and make the most of the season.
Sources
1. “What Is Seasonal Affective Disorder?” Johns Hopkins Medicine,
All images are submitted by AmeriHealth Caritas District of Columbia and are used under license for illustrative purposes only. Any individual depicted is a model
With AmeriHealth Caritas DC’s Healthy Rewards program, taking care of your health has never been so rewarding!
AmeriHealth Caritas DC enrollees can earn rewards for completing activities like doctor visits, health screenings, and more and redeem them for everyday essentials such as groceries and household items. The Healthy Rewards program is a great way to keep yourself and your family healthy while enjoying extra perks.
The Healthy Rewards program allows enrollees to choose gift cards for their rewards from the following retailers:*
• Walmart
• Safeway
• CVS
• Kohl’s
• TJ Maxx
• Marshalls
• Gap/Baby Gap
• Home Depot
• Fandango (movies)
• Smoothie King
• Apple App Store
• Google Play Store
*Retailers are subject to change. For more information, call the Community Outreach Solutions team at 202-216-2318, 9:00 a.m. –5:00 p.m., Monday through Friday.
EARTH OUR
Prince George’s County Council, Advocates Consider Environmental Friendliness and Concerns as
Legislative Session Winds Down
By Richard Elliott WI Contributing Writer
The Prince George’s County Council passed a flurry of bills to close out the 2024 legislative session, and environmental sustainability was a top priority.
While the council passed a bill that expands electric vehicle charging, advocates voiced concerns about building data centers and its potential negative impact on the environment, leading to a key part of now former County Executive Angela Alsobrooks’ outgoing agenda being tabled until the next legislative session.
Councilmember Wala Blegay (DDistrict 5) sponsored a bill to install electric vehicle (EV) charging stations at multifamily and commercial developments, as well as in parking lots at office buildings and apartment communities. While EV charging has
NOTE: Be on the lookout for future reporting about legislation surrounding cashless retail.
PLANNING AHEAD FOR THE NEXT BUDGET SEASON
This past spring, during the shaping of the Fiscal Year 2025 budget, D.C. Mayor Muriel Bowser (D) cited her obligations to the Office of the Chief Financial Officer, specifically replenishment of the District’s reserves, as the primary cause for her delayed submission of her budget proposal.
During the council breakfast preceding the Dec. 3 legislative meeting, Mendelson told colleagues that Bowser administration offi-
been available at gas stations and at some shopping centers, she believes that expanding the availability of chargers will ease the transition to cleaner vehicles.
“The reality is that this is the future, this is where we are going,” said Blegay, according to DC News Now. “What Americans love most is convenience, and if someone has their car in an office parking lot, we want them to be able to get a charge so they don’t have to stop somewhere and put themselves at risk.”
Blegay also noted that Howard and Montgomery Counties have implemented similar bills.
However, Sarah Price, Maryland Retailers Alliance vice president of communications and government affairs, expressed opposition to the proposal, stating that there is sufficient EV infrastructure in the county.
“We always appreciate wanting our
cials wanted to avoid a similar snafu next spring. Hours later, the council unanimously approved a set of measures that would push back the deadline for Bowser's submission of her Fiscal Year 2026 budget proposal by two weeks.
The bills, introduced by D.C. Council Chairman Phil Mendelson (D), sets the submission date at April 2, 2026 with Bowser scheduled to present her proposal to the entire council two days later. Despite some concerns about how the resolution would exacerbate spring break scheduling conflicts for council staffers who are parents, Mendelson said he wanted to prevent an equally damaging scenario.
“They missed a deadline this year and that was very problematic,” Mendelson said about the Bowser administration. “It’s very chaotic
5 The Prince George’s County Council approved legislation to install electric vehicle charging stations at multifamily and commercial developments, as well as in parking lots at office buildings and apartment communities. (WI File Photo/Anthony Tilghman)
involvement in these matters as a partner,” Price said during a council meeting on the bill in mid-November. “But I don’t think that occurred during this process and based on the information I have we are still opposed.”
and unfair to everybody because we have to redo the schedule. That means the public has to learn the schedule again with less time to prepare.”
MENDELSON DELAYS SECOND VOTE ON DYRS ACCOUNTABILITY LEGISLATION
Since the D.C. Council approved the Recidivism Reduction, Oversight, and Accountability for DYRS (ROAD) Act of 2024 on its first reading, debate around accountability for the D.C. Department of Youth Rehabilitation Services intensified, with D.C. Mayor Muriel Bowser (D), according to D.C. Council Chairman, threatening to veto the bill should the council pass it.
streamline the process to approve data centers in the county, as county residents and leaders have mixed views about the pros and cons of them coming to Prince George’s.
Some supporters, including Prince George’s Chamber of Commerce CEO Alexander Austin, cited the tax revenue derived from data centers as a major boost to Prince George’s amid ongoing budget uncertainties.
"Data centers that we've seen in the regional capacity have provided a tremendous amount of corporate tax revenue that has impacted the community in a positive way," said Austin.
Under Alsobrooks, the Office of the County Executive sought the passage of this bill, similar to how Gov. Wes Moore (D) has streamlined the data center process at the state level.
"Four data centers in Maryland could create about 500 short-term jobs, 30 to 50 long-term jobs, up to $5 million dollars per year in tax benefits," said Angie Rodgers, deputy chief administrative officer for economic development for the Office of the County Executive.
However, some residents and advocates raised issue with rapid development without proper community input, along with the associated environmental and energy risks.
DATA CENTERS: PROS, CONS AND POTENTIAL ENVIRONMENTAL HARMS
The council also tabled a bill to
That’s why, during the council’s Dec. 3 legislative meeting, Mendelson announced he would postpone the second reading of the bill until Dec. 17, the council’s last legislative meeting for Council Period 24.
“I didn’t feel there was much effort on the other side of the table to find resolutions,” Mendelson said on the dais. “But several members said they would like for me to try for another two weeks to see if there could be some resolution of objections the mayor has raised.”
Mendelson assured his colleagues that the bill wouldn’t die.
“The mayor’s position is that there should be no deadline or timeframe, and DYRS could continue its practices,” he said. “ I don’t think that’s acceptable, and that’s not a bill I want to move forward.”
In its current form, The ROAD
"Data centers are an integral part of our daily life. But as we've learned from northern Virginia, allowing them by right development without community input leads to drastic energy, water and land impacts," said conservation advocate Angie McCarthy.
WI
Act includes provisions requiring DYRS to develop and complete an individualized rehabilitation plan before a dispositional hearing, implement that plan within three days, and provide periodic updates. The agency would also be charged with providing services to youth in residential placement within 30 days. In situations when a young person isn’t receiving recidivism-reducing services and placement, the law also allows for the modification of a disposition order every four months. A newly formed department within the Office of the D.C. Auditor (ODCA) would also provide permanent and independent oversight of DYRS.
DYRS Director Sam Abed, an opponent of the bill, criticized bill
COUNCIL
COUNCIL REPORT from Page 1
New Clean Air Rules Help Black Communities
Will They Survive the Incoming Trump Administration?
By Willy Blackmore Word in Black
This article was originally published online with Word In Black, a collaboration of the nation's leading Black news publishers (of which The Informer is a member).
Over the past four years, the Environmental Protection Agency has tightened restrictions on a host of pollutants and pollution sources, ranging from tougher tailpipe emissions standards for all heavy-duty trucks to cracking down on chloroprene pollution — emissions which come from just one plastic plant in Louisiana’s Cancer Alley.
The new restrictions are continuing even in the waning days of the Biden Administration: last week, the White House announced new standards for all nitrogen oxides, a class of harmful
gasses generated from burning fossil fuels, in power plants and other industrial facilities.
It’s a change that — as is often the case when it comes to air pollution — would greatly benefit Black communities. But like all Biden-era environmental protections, the new nitrogen oxide rule is at risk when Donald Trump returns to the presidency next year.
Joseph Goffman, an assistant EPA administrator, said in a statement that the stronger standards will “better protect nearby communities’ health, and the power sector has already shown that the additional pollution controls can affordably and reliably do the job.”
In 2023, researchers from Northeastern University published a study that looked at how nitrogen dioxide pollution varied by Census tract. It found that Black, Latinx, and otherwise non-white
tracts had disproportionately high rates of exposure.
Like other nitrogen oxides, nitrogen dioxide is caused not only by power plants but cars and other vehicles with internal-combustion engines. And, as freeways were disproportionately built through Black communities, utilities were more likely to build power plants in close proximity to Black neighborhoods.
The study, published in the journal Environmental Science and Technology Letters, found that the number of premature deaths related to NO2 exposure in predominantly Black Census tracts was 47% higher than the national average.
The EPA believes stricter standards “could also lead to reductions in other types of pollution, like particulate matter and ozone, by lowering the amount available
to react with other volatile organic compounds,” according to the New York Times. The agency estimates that cutting nitrogen oxide emissions could produce a “net benefits to society” dividend of $46.4 million.
Under the Clean Air Act, the EPA must reconsider power-plant pollution standards every 8 years, but the nitrogen oxide limits have not been updated since 2006. The
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new EPA rule stems from a 2022 lawsuit filed by the
and Environmental
which set a 2025 deadline for updated standards.
During the last Trump Administration the EPA loosened monitoring standards for nitrogen oxide emissions from coal-fired power plants — plants that are more likely to be located next to Black and brown communities. WI
Sierra Club
Defense Club,
5 Like all Biden-era environmental protections, the new nitrogen oxide rule is at risk when Donald Trump returns to the presidency next year. (Courtesy Photo)
EDUCATION
State Board Explores HighQuality Education as a Civil Right
SBOE Vice President Jacque Patterson Eyes a Change to the Home Rule Charter
By Sam P.K. Collins WI Staff Writer
D.C. State Board of Education
(SBOE) Vice President Jacque Patterson, fresh off the campaign trail, said he will soon recommend a resolution aimed at holding the D.C. government legally accountable for providing every public school student with a high-quality education.
If the state board follows Patterson’s recommendation during a working
meeting scheduled for this week, then representatives will be able to vote on a resolution, titled The Civil Right to a High-Quality Education Resolution of 2024, as early as Dec. 11.
“This was a working proof for open dialogue about education as a civil right,” Patterson, a member of the state board's Education as a Civil Right working group, told The Informer.
Patterson told The Informer that he and his fellow working group mem-
bers -- SBOE Representatives Allister Chang (Ward 2), Eric Goulet (Ward 3) and Brandon Best (Ward 6) -- spent time between May and the Nov. 20 public meeting preparing to provide recommendations to the entire state board.
The actual language will be developed between Dec. 4 and Dec.
11, Patterson said. He expressed a desire for the passage of a resolution in support of an amendment to the D.C. Home Rule charter that codifies the District’s obligation to provide a high-quality education to all public school students.
3 D.C. State Board of Education Vice President Jacque Patterson is recommending a resolution aimed at holding the D.C. government legally accountable for providing every public school student with a high-quality education. (Courtesy Photo/Jaque Patterson, Facebook)
with high quality public schools, defined as schools that equip students with the tools necessary to participate meaningfully in our economy, our society, and our democracy. Legal action to enforce this fundamental right shall be limited to equitable relief,” Patterson contends, is language that should be added to the charter.
If the resolution passes, the D.C. Council has the option of introducing it as legislation that can be passed and sent to Congress for approval.
In 1973–less than 20 years after Brown v. Board of Education deemed segregation illegal— the Supreme Court ruled, in San Antonio Independent School District v. Rodriguez, that the U.S. Constitution doesn't guarantee a right to education.
Much of the testimony from panelists, and later public witnesses, centered on the language for the resolution that Patterson spent a year developing in consultation with local and out-of-state legal scholars. Although he acknowledged concerns about amending the Home Rule Charter while the District government is in the cross hairs of a Republican-controlled Congress and, soon, a second Trump White House, he said time is of the essence in improving academic outcomes.
“Everyone agrees we need to do something about proficiency, especially east of the Anacostia River, but there’s no consensus on how we achieve that,” Patterson, an at-large member of the SBOE, told The Informer. “We’re making efforts [in education] but we haven’t put in place the types of resources that make big impacts. We have to focus and get people accountable for getting there.”
Though most states have statements that, to some degree, obligate the state government to provide public school education, at least a dozen states deem education necessary to preserve rights and liberties. Only Florida, Illinois and Virginia have clauses in their state constitution mandating high-quality education.
To this day, the fight for equal access to high-quality education continues throughout the United States. The local discussion about education as a civil right comes one year after advocates in California failed to get a similarly worded ballot measure on the 2024 general election ballot.
Patterson said that, after his successful re-election bid, he stands prepared to advance this cause, even as some community members, including those representing Parents Amplifying Voices in Education DC (PAVE), are raising questions about D.C.’s precarious political status and parent engagement in shaping the resolution.
Patterson said he wants to add a critical caveat to the Home Rule Charter.
“The District and its public schools shall provide all public school students
“I’ve attended PAVE meetings and we always talked about proficiency and under resourced schools,” said Patterson. “And I’ve talked to people while campaigning. We’ve engaged parents throughout this whole process. I would say over the time I was campaigning and talking to people about proficiency in every quadrant of this city.”
WI Read
County Board of Education Cancels Swearing In, Moves Leadership Selection to Different Date
By Richard Elliott WI Contributing Writer
In a surprising turn of events, the Prince George’s County Board of Education’s swearing in of new members, scheduled for Dec. 2 at 5 p.m., was delayed following a new member filing an injunction with the Circuit Court. While the annual meeting to elect the board chair and vice chair was still scheduled for 5:30 p.m. in Upper Marlboro, it was moved to Dec. 5 following a unanimous vote of the current Board.
“The injunction we filed is to stop the election during the annual meeting, which would select the chair and vice chair,” a source close to the matter told The Informer on the condition of anonymity earlier in the day.
Board of Education Chair Lolita Walker (District 9) kicked off the meeting at 5:34 p.m.
“New members were unable to be sworn in as of today, as the Board
of Elections was unable to release the commissions in time for today’s scheduled oath of ceremony,” the board chair said.
Walker, Student Board Member Jamal Jongo and five other board members attended the Dec. 2 meeting: Jonathan Briggs (District 2), Pamela Boozer-Strother (District 3), Shayla Adams-Stafford (District 4), Branndon Jackson (District 6), Dr. Kenneth Harris II (District 7), and Madeline LaSalle-Frazier (District 8). No public commenters attended the in-person meeting.
The board chair explained the laws necessitating the selection of new leadership on that date.
Walker insisted multiple times that holding the meeting was necessary to follow state laws, which require the selection of a new chair and vice chair on the first Monday in December following an election.
Adams-Stafford requested to table the meeting until the new members
were sworn in and her motion was seconded. However, parliamentarian Daisy W. Matthews cited this motion as out of order as this was not deemed an emergency and a quorum was present for the meeting.
The District 4 board member pushed back.
“We have people that have been elected that should have the opportunity to vote for the chair and the vice chair to bring forward initiatives, ideas, and represent the desires of the communities that elected them,” said Adams-Stafford. “I will be voting to postpone this, to allow our new members the opportunity to vote for their leadership. I hope my colleagues will as well.”
Legal counsel Bradley Farrar noted that the meeting structure could be altered, and a compromise was met to hold the selection on Thursday, Dec. 5 at 5 p.m., leading into a previously scheduled meeting. Then, the board unanimously voted to move the meet-
ing and close the business of the day. If the newly-elected members are not certified before the 5 p.m. Dec. 5 gathering concludes, the board will have to cancel the following 7 p.m. business meeting.
CERTIFYING THE ELECTION, THE VACANT SEAT
The recent election for Board of Education has not yet been certified and
one seat remains temporarily vacant, while two members who did not win reelection remain seated until further notice.
While Tiffani Andorful (District 1) and Robin Brown (District 5) maintained relatively large leads against their opponents during the vote tallying process and Adams-Stafford (District 4) ran unopposed, two other races were much narrower. WI
Read more on washingtoninformer.com.
5The Prince George’s County Board of Education’s swearing in of new members, scheduled for today at 5 p.m., has been delayed following a new member filing an injunction with the Circuit Court. (Courtesy Photo)
Leslie grew up around many types of voices in Puerto Rico. When she and her team engineered voice recognition technology, she was inspired to include different accents, ages, and abilities. Now, this technology processes over 50 million voice commands every day.
Celebrating Shirley Chisholm’s 100th Birthday, Remembering a Barrier-Breaking Champion
On Nov. 30, Shirley Chisholm would have turned 100 years old.
Born in Brooklyn, New York, Chisolm died on January 1, 2005, at 80.
Almost 30 years after her death, Chisholm’s contributions are still making a difference on the American political landscape. Although Vice President Kamala Harris was unsuccessful in her bid to become the first woman—and first of Black and Asian descent—to become president of the United States, her loss in no way minimizes Chisholm’s impact.
The vice president’s very role and 107-day campaign for the White House are clear signs of Chisholm’s major contributions.
Harris often said on the campaign trail, “We stand on the shoulders of Shirley Chisholm, and Shirley Chisholm stood proud.”
Before her historic presidential run in 1972, Chisholm was elected to Congress in 1968, representing the 12th congressional district of Brooklyn. Her election also made
her the first Black woman to serve in Congress.
A fellow Democrat and member of the New York Congressional Delegation, former Rep. Charlie Rangel, fondly recalled in a 2020 interview with CBS News: “I heard more about Brooklyn than I wanted to know. She was a forceful orator. Shirley Chisholm’s voice was heard more, moreso than most members of Congress.”
Chisholm and Rangel were founding members of the Congressional Black Caucus on March 30, 1971.
By the time Chisholm announced her bid for the White House on January 25, 1972, she had already broken barriers, made waves in Congress, and carved out a place for herself in history books.
“We are entering a new era, in which we must, as Americans, demand stature and size from our national leadership – leadership which is fresh, leadership which is open, and leadership which is receptive to the problems of all Americans,” Chisholm said when
Rosa Parks’ Refusal to Give Up Her Seat Reminds Us That One Person Can Make a Difference
Rosa Parks was arrested in Montgomery, Alabama, after refusing to relinquish her seat to a White customer on December 1, 1955, sparking the Montgomery Bus Boycott— an integral part of the Civil Rights Movement and the fight toward freedom and justice for all. While several U.S. states, Missouri, Ohio and Oregon consider Dec. 1 Rosa Parks Day (and on Feb. 4, her birthday, in Michigan and California), efforts are still underway to make the date a federal holiday.
Locally, in the Greater Washington Area, Metrobus continued a tradition which it established on Dec. 1, 2022, reserving a seat marked with a sign featuring an image of Parks, to honor her self-
kicking off her groundbreaking campaign.
Unfortunately, Chisholm did not break the glass ceiling, nor did Hillary Clinton in 2016 or Harris on Nov. 5. However, may the losses of these three qualified women not be a source of discouragement but an inspiration to elect a female American president in our lifetime.
The barrier-breaking woman who will one day occupy the Oval Office will stand on the shoulders of Chisholm, Clinton, and Harris.
So until America can say “Madame President,” let us all remember the words of the late Rep. Chisholm: “If they don’t give you a seat at the table, bring your own folding chair.” WI
The article “The Changing Face of Food Insecurity” was very well written, insightful, and spot-on. Folks of all income levels are feeling the pinch at the grocery store, not just the have-nots. Things must and should turn around soon. I don’t know how long society can go on this way.
Gail Terry Washington, D.C.
less act of civil disobedience.
As Americans pause to reflect on the contributions of Parks in the fight for equal rights for Black Americans, Metro’s Chief Equity, Diversity and Inclusion Officer
Darlene Slaughter said in a statement during last year’s observance, “We ask customers to join us in celebrating her legacy through this small gesture to recognize her enormous contributions to the Civil Rights Movement.”
Parks’ decision was strategic and far from being just a woman bucking the system because her “feet were tired.”
While the other Black people in her row complied with the bus driver’s demands to give up their seats, Parks refused to comply – a
decision that served as a seminal moment in the Civil Rights Movement and led to a citywide, 381day bus boycott.
Finally, on December 20, 1956, the U.S. Supreme Court declared laws in Alabama and Montgomery which allowed for segregation on buses to be unconstitutional and illegal.
It's been 69 years since Parks refused to get up so we could sit down. But it took thousands of men, women and children, walking to work, school or church, and thousands of others joining in the bus boycott, donating their services as car drivers.
Yes, it was the Court’s decision that changed the status quo in America. But America also realized, perhaps for the first time, the immense economic power that
TO THE EDITOR
Kudos on another great issue. Loved the cover stories on Marion Barry, the Home Rule debate, and I can’t forget about The Bridge. The creativity is outstanding! That’s all for now.
Bryan C. Bice Washington, D.C.
Parks’ decision was strategic and far from being just a woman bucking the system because her “feet were tired.”
Black people could wield in efforts to change laws and policies, when we act together.
Lest we forget, most white Americans in Alabama were vehemently opposed to giving up their cherished “white privilege.” But for the bus company, change was
inevitable as the boycott nearly bankrupted the firm. We honor Parks because she represents the indisputable truth that many of us have forgotten: one person who lights the flame in the quest for justice can make a difference. WI
OPINIONS/EDITORIALS
Guest Columnist
A Day for Shirley Chisholm
Nov. 30 is Shirley Chisholm Day in New York, and it's about time New York, the nation and indeed the world celebrates this Black woman, the first to be elected to Congress in 1969, just five years after the passage of the Civil Rights Act.
Shirley Chisholm was the first Black woman to run for president in 1972. Imagine the racism and sexism
she encountered. But it didn't stop her! She competed in just 12 primaries, as the good-old-boys worked to prevent her ballot access. Yet she amassed 152 delegates, around 10% of the total.
As a member of Congress, Shirley Chisholm authored about 50 pieces of legislation, mostly around race and gender equality, children, poverty and ending the war in Vietnam. Her boldness was an inspiration for women like former New Jersey Secretary of State Regina Thomas and retiring Rep. Barbara Lee, who cast
the lone vote against our war in Afghanistan.
If there were no Shirley Chisholm, there would be no Vice President Kamala Harris, whose own presidential campaign reminds us of Chisholm. Shirley Chisholm was not only a legislator, representing Brooklyn, she was also an educator and activist. She earned a master's degree in early childhood education from Columbia University, and that educational background gave her a heart for our children. Committed to women's equal participation in politics she
was, in 1971, a co-founder of the National Women's Political Caucus. In 1977, she became the first Black woman, and only the second woman, to serve on the House Rules Committee.
Her contributions are numerous, her impact legendary. She was awarded a posthumous Medal of Freedom by President Barack Obama in 2015. She is an icon for many, especially for Black women, but for too many she is either unknown or forgotten. The sister who described herself as "unbought and unbossed" deserves a lot
Credit Card Swipe Fees Are Financial Inequities for Black America
America's financial system is quietly reinforcing old inequities. Black American communities — historically denied access to wealth-building tools due to practices like redlining and restrictive banking — now face a new predatory financial hurdle: credit card swipe fees.
For Black Americans, swipe fees
— which credit card companies use to fund luxury points programs — act as yet another layer of systemic discrimination, forcing many to pay more while receiving less in return.
Consider how credit card swipe fees work. Every time someone uses a credit card, the merchant is charged a fee — usually between 2% and 4% — which is often passed on to consumers through higher prices. Wealthier cardholders benefit from this system, recouping costs through rewards like
fancy hotel stays and airline miles. But a legacy of discrimination has left Black families with fewer wealth-building opportunities, resulting in lower homeownership rates, lower credit scores and higher debt burdens — putting those premium credit cards and their luxury rewards out of reach for many.
In simple terms, Black Americans and other communities of color are left to foot the bill for the flights and perks of those who are considerably more affluent. Black Americans are less likely to
The Department of Education Under Attack
an "abuse of your taxpayer dollars" that allows schools to "indoctrinate America's youth."
U.S. Sen. Mike Rounds, R-S.D., recently introduced legislation to abolish the U.S. Department of Education in a not-surprising move since it was part of Project 2025. It also aligns directly with President-elect Donald Trump's repeated pledge to dismantle the federal agency. During the campaign, Trump called for the agency's elimination, arguing it's
Since its inception, efforts to abolish the department date back to the Reagan administration in 1981. Those early efforts were found not to be an easy endeavor and never materialized. Many of the suggestions in Project 2025 concerning the Department of Education came from a memo written by then-President Ronald Reagan's education secretary just one year after it became a Cabinet-level agency under the Carter
administration.
Despite confusion on the agency's role — it doesn't set policy on what schools can or can't teach — a major function of the department deals with higher education. It issues student loans and oversees the Federal Application for Free Student Aid (FAFSA), which helps students with "exceptional financial needs." Under the proposed legislation, key programs and funding streams would be moved to other federal agencies.
"Do people know anything about the Department of Education? May-
more recognition than the Nov. 30 festivities, and the day reminds us of the many unsung heroines in our society. It is unfortunate that even in these days of "Black girl magic" we deify men and often ignore Black women.
I don't know why New York chose to lift Shirley Chisholm up this Nov. 30. Perhaps it is because she embodies the kind of audacity we need in these times. When asked how she wanted to be remembered,
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hold credit cards — 72% ownership compared with 88% for white Americans — and often face higher interest rates. Fifty-eight percent of Black Americans have more credit card debt than emergency savings, compared with 30% of white Americans. Black college graduates carry $25,000 more in student loan debt than their white counterparts, which can further harm their credit scores and financial stability.
It's a painful irony: Black Americans, who are systematically excluded from wealth-building tools,
end up paying more to access the same basic financial services. These financial pressures make it hard to escape revolving debt, and harder still to enjoy the rewards that banks offer. The promise of "free" rewards from swipe fees is an illusion for those who can barely afford to pay down their balance every month. While swipe fees aren't solely responsible for racial wealth disparities, they compound existing financial burdens, making it even harder
be not. But have they ever heard of the Pell Grant? Probably so," said former Education Secretary Margaret Spellings, who served under former President George W. Bush. If the Department of Education is eliminated, the Treasury Department would oversee student loans for millions of college students and graduates.
"It's going to be very costly and very complicated, and it's not clear that even people who favor this are going to think benefits justify the cost and aggravation," said Michael
Feuer, dean of the Graduate School of Education and Human Development and a professor of education policy at George Washington University. This illustrates the importance of voter education, awareness and engagement before and after elections. The proposed legislation by Sen. Rounds shows there will always be a never-ending attempt to dissolve the 45-year-old agency while weakening public education in favor of private schools. A key component
Benjamin F. Chavis Jr.
David W. Marshall
Julianne Malveaux
MALVEAUX
Guest Columnist
Guest Columnist
Guest Columnist
No Kings Act
I know it's been a long time since I studied law, but all of my life I heard the phrase, "No one is above the law." During the Civil Rights Movement, such as the time when attorney Thurgood Marshall, Medgar Evers, the Rev. Martin Luther King Jr., attorney Fred Gray, Rosa Parks, Mayor Charles Evers, Dick Gregory, Ella
Baker, Malcolm X, Bayard Rustin, Diane Nash, Fannie Lou Hamer, A. Philip Randolph and others were with us, when something about race didn't seem to be fair, our leaders would say, "We'll take it to the Supreme Court!"
We haven't heard that statement in recent times as we're looking for justice. I know we can rely on Justices Elena Kagan, Sonia Sotomayor and Ketanji Brown Jackson (the three justice warrior women on the U.S. Supreme Court) but they're not in the majority. They can ar-
gue for justice and we're grateful they're there. President Barack Obama tried to even the playing field a bit by putting someone on the Supreme Court. Sen. Mitch McConnell put an end to that when President Obama had the right to make Attorney General Merrick Garland a candidate. Republicans, led by McConnell, immediately announced they would not consider or vote on any replacement nominees from President Obama. They deferred the appointment to the next president
who it just happened was Donald Trump. Even though doing so was not the law or the practice at the time, what McConnell did was set up a situation that a Democrat may not have the opportunity to select a Supreme Court justice in our lifetime — giving a convicted criminal by the name of Trump the right to make decisions on who will be able to become a Supreme Court justice for years to come! Now Trump will have the power of kings! He can do whatever he wishes to do and will have
Malcolm X Lawsuit an Opportunity for NYPD, Feds to Right Old Wrongs
family and the world of his life and legacy." — Civil rights attorney Ben Crump
"For decades, [U.S. government agencies and the NYPD] viewed Black activism as a threat to national security, resulting in the unchecked targeting of prominent leaders, including Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. and Marcus Garvey. This lawsuit seeks accountability for the systemic negligence and intentional actions that deprived Malcolm X's
Six days before Malcolm X was gunned down at the Audubon Ballroom in New York City, an undercover NYPD detective told the department he'd seen "a dry run" of Malcolm X's assassination, which he believed would happen on the upcoming Sunday.
The next day, two members of Malcolm X's security team were arrested and detained in connec-
What is one thing — just one — you can agree on with someone on the opposite side of the political divide? The late Gen. Colin Powell once told me, "Figure that out and you can get a lot done. And as you win one victory together, you might just discover along the way that there's something else you agree on."
Our nation seems utterly divided. Many of the wounds that have been torn open in these last few election cycles are real and painful. But too much focus has been placed on further tearing open those wounds rather than healing them. One way we can heal them is simply by rolling up our sleeves and getting to work on the things we can agree on.
One thing Dr. Martin Luther
tion with a bogus plot to bomb the Statue of Liberty. Malcolm X's daughters charged in a lawsuit filed this week that the arrests were coordinated by the NYPD and federal law enforcement agencies "to weaken Malcolm X's security, which knowingly facilitated his assassination."
In a letter written in 2011 and unveiled after his death in 2020, the undercover officer who drew the men into the plot wrote, "It was my assignment to draw the two men into a felonious federal
crime, so that they could be arrested by the FBI and kept away from managing Malcolm X's Audubon Ballroom door security on Feb. 21, 1965."
The lawsuit pulls together years of systemic and institutional corruption within the NYPD, the FBI and the CIA. A swift settlement would allow these agencies to draw the curtain on an ugly period of rank injustice and usher in a new era of integrity and decency.
Accusations of conspiracy and corruption have surrounded Mal-
no guardrails because something strange happened in the 2024 presidential election. The best candidate did not get credit for the victory. I say "did not get credit" because in my book, Vice President Kamala Harris won the hearts and minds of so many voters and would have been able to straighten out more of the mess Trump made the last time he was president, and in the next four years the horrors he's already putting in place for
colm X's assassination from the moment the bullets were fired. Earl Grant, a close associate, wrote of the immediate aftermath, "Here were New York City policemen, entering a room from which at least a dozen shots had been heard, and yet not one of them had his gun out! As a matter of absolute fact, some of them even had their hands in their pockets."
Two of the men who were convicted of the murder, Muhammad
King Jr. taught his lieutenants, several of whom trained me when I was a young organizer, is that if you are comfortable in your coalition, your coalition is too small.
We need unlikely allies and uncomfortably large coalitions. Coalitions of what can seem like strange bedfellows get things done. When I served as national president of the NAACP, we brought together prison guard unions, conservative governors and Democratic legislators to dramatically shrink
prison systems and allow people who served their sentences to regain their right to vote.
Bipartisanship itself can be a powerful tool and vehicle for progress. Here are a few examples, just from recent or ongoing environmental fights for legislation at the federal, state and local levels.
We know that Donald Trump and his allies in Congress are close friends of the fossil fuel and other extractive industries. As such, one
might assume Republican support for conservation efforts would be hard, if not impossible, to find. But one of the green movement's great victories at the federal level during the first Trump administration was passage of the bipartisan Great American Outdoors Act. The bill provided permanent funding for important conservation and public recreation projects across the country and addressed a multibillion-dollar maintenance
WILLIAMS Page 54
Marc H. Morial
Ben Jealous
Guest Columnist
E. Faye Williams
Columnist
LIFESTYLE
Things To Do, DMV!
By Jada Ingleton WI Digital Equity Fellow
Check out a handful of the many events happening in the DMV this weekend, from prestigious traditions and comedic roasts to celebrations of sisterhood and provocative theatrics.
To keep up with all the fun, don’t forget to check out the Washington Informer Calendar, and remember, there’s always something
Raise a glass and enjoy Washington’s most talented and celebrated Jazz musicians: Charlie Young on saxophone, Herman Burney on double
5Black Leaves Dance Company (pictured in May 2023) – an all-Black, all-male, queer-inclusive dance company – brings their retelling of The Nutcracker story to Atlas Performing Arts Center Dec. 7 - 8. The thought-provoking rendition, titled “A Chocolate City Nutcracker,” serves as an exploratory love letter to pan-Africanism, the queer community, and family.
(Courtesy Photo/Instagram)
This event is part of programming for Amy Kaslow Gallery’s ongoing exhibition, “Joseph Holston: Black Lives, A Retrospective.”
The Washington Roast 7:30 p.m. | $20.00 DC Improv, 1140 Connecticut Ave
In a blend of standup, sketch, and improv, The Washington Roast hosts a constituency of the DMV’s best comedians who faceoff in an interactive roast battle and town hall in character as politicians.
Hosted by The Washington Roast founding father Tim Kardashian, the “politicians” will answer live audience town hall questions before facing off in an unfiltered roast battle. Applause determines the winner of each round in a tournament of 2024 candidates and other deplorables (Trump, Biden, Kamala, RFK Jr. and more).
FRIDAY, DEC. 6
A Funny Thing Happened on the Way to the Forum 8 p.m. | $40.00+
Signature Theatre, 4200 Campbell Ave, Arlington, VA 22206
Three households reside next to each other in ancient Rome. Just outside their doors, the exploits of a quick-thinking Roman slave, a braggart soldier, a beautiful courtesan, a lovesick young man and others devolve into uproarious chaos in a fast-paced, witty and monumental escapade.
With mistaken identities, wily ruses, madcap chases, a love story, and a happy ending of course, “A Funny Thing Happened on the Way to the Forum” is an audacious and irreverent spectacle that has something for everyone.
Women of Sonrise in DC
3:30 p.m. - 6:30 p.m. | Free tickets selling fast, after $100.00 National Harbor, National Harbor Boulevard Oxon Hill, MD 20745
Join The Sonrise Project for adult-only days filled with sisterhood, laughter, and connection with other amazing women in the outskirts of Washington, D.C.
This weekend of events is all about celebrating the strength and resilience of women in the SonRise community. From scheduled activities to free time to shop or explore, guests will leave feeling refreshed and rejuvenated.
Shop, eat and sing karaoke at the free indoor pop-up event at Western Market, where visitors can find elusive vinyl records, unique coffee mugs and clothing, stunning jewelry and more with some of the coolest vendors in D.C.
Guests can also win concert and show tickets to the 9:30 Club, Lincoln Theatre, The Atlantis, and The Anthem.
All ages and all awesome!
Black Leaves Dance Company: A Chocolate City Nutcracker 6 p.m. | $29.25
Atlas Performing Arts Center, 1333 H St NW, Washington, D.C., 20005
“A Chocolate City Nutcracker” – Black Leaves Dance Company’s retelling of The Nutcracker story – follows a young, gay man at his HBCU holiday party, who is searching for his Prince, and travels to the Land of Dreams. There, he explores a variety of African diasporic dance genres. This work is a love letter to pan-Africanism, the queer community, and family.
The show runs Dec. 7-8. Tickets are $29.25 for adults and $18.25 for children.
All ages content warning: rare or mild depictions of violence.
SUNDAY, DEC. 8
The 47th Kennedy Honors 8:30 p.m. | Free, CBS Broadcast Kennedy Center, 2700 F St NW, Washington, D.C., 20566
Throughout its 45-year history, the Kennedy Center Honors has redefined America’s perception of its artistic legacy and reinvented the way this nation rewards its artists.
The annual Honors gala is an evening without categories, without disappointments, without competition -- and the Honors telecast is a perennial Emmy nominee. WI
Read more on washingtoninformer.com.
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The Phillips Collection’s ‘Breaking It Down: Conversations from the Vault’ Features Early Classics and Contemporary Art
By Brenda C. Siler WI Contributing Writer
The Phillips Collection exhibition, “Breaking It Down: Conversations from the Vault,” on display until Jan. 19, opens the door to the thinking of art collectors and philanthropists Duncan and Marjorie Phillips and how they established a place for artists working in their early stages.
Several foundational artists such as Georges Braque, Richard Diebenkorn, John Marin, Sam Gilliam, Paul Klee, and Georgia O’Keeffe are included in the “Breaking It Down” collection. In addition, there are several acquisitions from artists making a Phillips Collection debut, including William Christenberry, Walker Evans, Joel Meyerowitz, Sean Scully, Aaron Siskind, Sylvia Snowden, Renée Stout, and Joyce Wellman.
“My idea is not to show all our treasures at once but in ever-varied and purposeful exhibitions, arranging the Collection in units, which are frequently changed so that the walls of the various rooms reveal interesting transformations,” explained Duncan Phillips in 1926 when he laid out his game plan for his collection.
This Phillips Collection exhibition is divided into themed spaces.
One of the galleries, “Rethinking Surfaces,” has an extensive collection of works by Gilliam, who lived in D.C. until his death in 2022.
Gilliam was known for pouring paint onto unprimed and unstretched canvases and then shaping them. Going up the stairs to view “Breaking It Down,” you will see three drapes of this technique hanging side-by-side.
The “Breaking It Down” exhibition shows a commitment to how
5Three separate draped canvases by Sam Gilliam, part of The Phillips Collection exhibition “Breaking It Down: Conversations from the Vault,” are an example of his approach to using color. (L-R) Sam Gilliam pieces: “Red Register,” 1970, Acrylic on canvas, 89 x 37 x 6 in., on loan from the collection of Barbara and Aaron Levine; “Maya,” 1970, Acrylic on canvas, 100 x 30 x 9 in., on loan from the collection of Susan and Dixon Butler; “Broad Cape,” 1972, Acrylic on canvas, 118 x 50 in., a gift from Harry and Monika Holmgren, 2023. (Courtesy Photo/Lee Stalsworth)
work evolves through the stages of an artist’s life.
Renée Maurer, associate curator at The Phillips Collection, talked about the Phillip’s ethos of “supporting living artists by collecting their art in depth over a period of time.”
“Visitors can get to know an artist and see how the work changed every time,” Maurer said.
For more information, visit phillipscollection.org.
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Howard University Jazz Ensemble Concert and Awards Honor the Memory of Benny Golson
Brenda C. Siler WI Contributing Writer
The Howard University Jazz Ensemble (HUJE), under the direction of Fred Irby, III, presented its fall concert and awards program on Nov. 21; and this year’s event, called “A Tear for Benny,” had an important underlying purpose: honoring saxophonist, composer, arranger and educator Benny Golson, who died in September.
Golson was a Howard University alumnus and National Endowment for the Arts (NEA) Jazz Master. In addition to the concert, the occasion also recognized those receiving the Benny Golson Jazz Master Award and citations, an honor created by Irby in 1996.
A special guest sitting in with HUJE, was NEA Jazz Master drummer Louis Hayes, who received the 2024 Benny Golson Jazz Master
Award, and citations were also awarded to Keith Killgo, Steve Novosel, Donald M. Temple, Esq., and the Jazz Organ Fellowship.
Hayes emphasized the significance of receiving an award in Golson’s honor.
“Benny Golson was a special person in our lives,” said Hayes. “For me, the whole thing was to be here in this environment to receive this award. To have this opportunity at Howard University to meet all of these young people on this level, is something I will never forget.”
Sharing thoughts about Hayes was fellow drummer and composer Nasar Abadey who is on the faculty at Johns Hopkins Peabody Institute. He is also founder and leader of the group SUPERNOVA.
Abadey spoke about seeing Hayes perform with jazz greats like Horace Silver, Freddie Hubbard, McCoy Tyner, Oscar Peterson, and Kenny Barron.
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“I remember hearing him from when I was in my early teens,” said Abadey, a 2023 Benny Golson Jazz Master Award honoree. “He has been consistent with his ability and talent.”
SPECIAL CITATIONS FOR JAZZ MUSICIANS AND INFLUENCERS
Receiving one of the special citations was Keith Killgo, drummer, educator, native Washingtonian, alumnus of Howard University, and one of the original members of The Blackbyrds, a group founded by Donald Byrd on the Howard campus.
Words of praise for Killgo were given by fellow musician, Davey Yarborough, who was also his District of Columbia Public Schools and college classmate. For the past years, Killgo has been on a world tour in celebration of the 50th anniversary of The Blackbyrds.
“This band room looks the same,” said Killgo to laughter from the audience. “But this is where it grew. This is for Kevin Toney and Donald Donald Byrd.”
Attorney Donald Temple has been on the social justice battlefield since his days as a Howard student. Not only is he a well respected attorney, he
hosts a Thursday evening program on WPFW Radio called “Lovethology.”
“The synthesis of law, jazz, justice and what I try to do at WPFW, to be in this space to be honored is priceless,” said Temple. “As a student of the arts and student actor as a part of the Howard Players, to be back in the basement of the fine arts building, this space is special to me.”
Steve Novosel is a bassist seen always performing around the D.C. area. He was introduced as “Dean of the DMV Basists.”
“Howard University has a special place in my heart,” said Novosel who acknowledged his former wife Roberta Flack, also a Howard alumnus.
Pete Fallico, executive director of Jazz Organ Foundation, emphasized the important work the organization does to empower artists.
“The Jazz Organ Fellowship is about acknowledging organists like Bill Davis, Jimmy Smith, Jack McDuff, Jimmy McGriff and Evelyn Ruth Moseley Lathan, known professionally as ‘Lady Byron,’” said Fallico.
TRUE APPRECIATION FOR BENNY GOLSON
During one of their last conversations, Golson told Irby about view-
ing a rough cut of a documentary that was in production about his life.
“‘It brought a tear to my eye,’” Irby recounted Golson saying. “‘I was just so happy.’”
Irby reflected on that conversation which led to the theme for the HUJE fall concert and a request for a student in the band.
“I thought about what Benny told me, so I asked one of our students, vibraphone and percussionist Sean MacCarthy-Grant, to write a composition for Benny,” said Irby.
The world premiere of “A Tear for Benny,” performed at the concert, was a beautiful piece with an intentional blend of brass harmonies.
Entering his last semester at Howard and looking forward to student teaching, McCarthy-Grant said he wanted to capture aspects of HUJE that makes the band blend together so well.
“I knew there was no way I could encapsulate all of his work in this one piece, but what I could do was write something for this band. Benny Golson was all about Howard University.”
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5Fred Irby III, Howard University coordinator of Instrumental Music, trumpet instructor and creator of the Benny Golson Jazz Master Award, with drummer and NEA Jazz Master Louis Hayes. Hayes is the 2024 Benny Golson Jazz Master recipient from the Howard University Jazz Ensemble. (Brenda C. Siler/The Washington Informer)
All Aboard City Cruises to Dine, Sailing the Potomac, Taking in the Best Views of the District
‘We’re
Your Regular Restaurant, Just on the Water with Better Views’
By Micha Green WI Managing Editor
From stunning sites such as the Washington Monument, Lincoln Memorial and Kennedy Center, to watching airplanes take off and the beautiful trees and grassy areas the busy city still boasts, the nation’s capital is filled with beautiful views worth witnessing time and time again. Aboard a City Cruises vessel, guests are able to dine, drink, dance and sail down the Potomac, all the while taking in magnificent views and celebrating District culture.
“You get to see the same views in D.C. that you drive past from a different angle,” D’Mani Harrison-Porter, City Cruises Mid-Atlantic regional director of marketing, told The Informer on Nov. 22 as he entertained guests that evening on the Odyssey, a boat specially made for D.C.
“You’ll never find a boat like this anywhere around the country, because this boat is designed to go under the 14th Street Bridge all the way to Georgetown,” he explained.
A native Washingtonian, Harrison-Porter has a lot of fond memories on City Cruises vessels, which was formerly called Entertainment Cruises before its merger with the West Coast operation Hornblower Group and their rebrand post pandemic.
“A lot of these boats have been in D.C. for a long time, to the point where my entire family has photos of us as kids—for sixth grade graduation, dinners, things like that— here. So, we’re just reminding people we’re still the same company, just a different name,” he said. “We’re the same boat, but we’re a little more upgraded...Better food, better quality, better service.”
The food, service and ambiance are
quite excellent.
During the holidays, people can ditch the stress of dishes and prepping the house for family and friends and check out all City Cruises has to offer.
“We do a lot of holiday events,” said Harrison-Porter, before adding the company was gearing up for their Thanksgiving feast on the water. “We do Christmas Eve brunch, and Christmas brunch and dinner. And then we also do New Year’s Eve, brunch, dinner and then New Year’s Day brunch.”
Beyond the holiday season, City Cruises welcomes guests all year.
“We probably have one of the best brunches in the city, just because of what you get to see. It’s two hours, unlimited mimosas, we have an upscale buffet style menu and we have some of the best DJs,” Harrison-Porter explained.
Chad Barth, vice president for food
and beverage for City Cruises US and vice president of the Mid-Atlantic region (Baltimore, Alexandria and D.C.), has had an up-close look at how much the Odyssey and company as a whole has grown over the years.
Now with 16 ports around the U.S., 90 vessels in the City Cruises portfolio, and operating in Canada, the U.K., and the National Park Service with the Statue of Liberty ferry— the company has certainly grown. However, there’s been a lot of growth for the Odyssey over the years as well.
We took a really deep dive into where people had traveled coming in and out of the pandemic. People were going to the Caribbean, they were going to Latin America, they were going to Asia, they were looking for more worldly flavors,” he explained. “So we reimagined our culinary offerings and made an intentional push starting last March 2023, to redevelop our culinary offerings.”
City Cruises also updated their beverage program and plans on making more tweaks to the menus with a rollout that will be launching spring 2025.
From native Washingtonians who
pass the monuments on their daily commutes, to first-time visitors to the nation’s capital, City Cruises is a perfect and unique way to enjoy all the District has to offer.
“[We’re] your regular restaurant,” Harrison-Porter told The Informer, “just on the water with better views.”
WI
De Beers Group and Signet Unveil ‘Worth the Wait’ Campaign
A peek into a different kind of diamond engagement ring campaign, celebrating the authenticity of natural diamonds with an ad featuring real world couples.
De Beers Group and Signet Jewelers, the world’s largest retailer of diamond jewelry, just unveiled their new 2024 campaign entitled “Worth the Wait” – eschewing the expected traditional fantasy narrative for diverse, real-world couples. Designed to draw parallels between the transformative journey of natural diamonds and the dynamic evolution of contemporary relationships, the advertising demonstrates how just as diamonds undergo a transformative process to become polished gems, couples undergo their own transformations as they solidify their bonds.
Designed to reflect the beauty and resilience of natural diamonds, these commercials draw insight from the lengths young adults now go to in order to find the right long-term partner, taking into account the rising age of couples getting married and the growing focus on individual mental and emotional health before finding life partners. According to the U.S. Census Bureau, Americans are delaying (or putting off altogether) getting married for longer than ever before. In 2023, the median average age of men marrying for the first time rose to 30 years of age, while the median average age of first marriage for women rose to 28 years old. This is in stark contrast to the 1950s, when the median age for men to marry was 22, and the median age for women was 20 years old.
Still, for all the hopeless romantics out there, there is hope. Marriage rates are expected to rise in the US over the next few years, driven primarily by the Black, Hispanic and non-white communities, according
to U.S. Census data. Through the “Worth the Wait” campaign, De Beers Group and Signet celebrate the unique paths that couples are now following before saying “I do,” and letting them know their needs and aspirations are being seen and understood.
The evolving focus on developing as an individual before taking the big step of getting married is being noticed across the country by individuals and experts alike. “I think everyone my age feels that it’s most important to feel secure within yourself in order to feel secure in your relationship. My generation seeks relationships where each partner has their own independence and internal strength,” noted Sophia Pasquale, a 22-year-old based in Chicago, IL.
“This generation is a little bit more open to having really meaningful conversations. Even just the way that we view therapy these days versus back then is different,” states Elisa Del Castillo, a New York City-based matchmaker and dating coach. “I know, with Latinos, I can say from my own experience, you don’t go to therapy, or you don’t really talk about it. And now it’s something that people encourage…. People are a lot more open to really diving deeper and diving into the hard stuff.”
And where once marriage vows primarily focused on honoring and obeying, vows now reflect a more nuanced insight into relationships with a focus on truth, communication, and growth – both individually and together. Mark Corser of Washington, DC, included in his own vows this year: “I promise to live in truth with you always, and to communicate without fear or judgment” – as did his wife.
This sentiment has also been reflected in religious faiths, where many couples have traditionally gone to seek marriage counsel as well as spiritual counsel. “If you want somebody to make the commitment for the long term, then you have to commit to working on you and they have to commit to working on themselves,” says Chicago-based pastor and relationship coach Jermone Glenn. “If I don’t see you putting in your
individual work even after we’re married, then I don’t have any hope that our work [together] is getting better. Keep working on yourself, so you can be a better self for your partner.”
The “Worth The Wait” campaign, which celebrates the hard work couples are doing in the hopes of having successful, lasting marriages, will run nationally across various platforms, including social media and online, and will be further supported by brand partners Zales, KAY Jewelers, and Jared Jewelers. As part of their commitment to ethical practices, Signet and De Beers Group emphasize transparency and responsible sourcing. “Across Signet’s banners, we are working to educate customers on their choices and provide transparency as an industry leader in responsible sourcing efforts,” said Jamie Singleton, Signet Jewelers Group President and Chief Consumer Officer.
CEO of De Beers Brands, Sandrine Conseiller, expressed excitement about the campaign’s modern approach: “We’re excited to launch this campaign as part of our refreshed approach to natural diamond category marketing to connect a new generation of consumers to the wonder of natural diamonds. While the campaign draws on our track record of iconic natural diamond advertising, it brings an entirely fresh approach grounded in deep insights about the relationships of today’s diverse couples.”
5A bartender pours glasses of “Candy Cane Lane,” City Cruises version of an espresso martini, offered through the holiday season. (Micha Green/The Washington Informer)
nated as “blighted” because it had graffiti on the north side of the building. Morgan said he had no idea who put the graffiti there, but strongly believes it came from someone associated with the developer.
Morgan closed the eatery temporarily due to the coronavirus pandemic and serious health problems but is working to revive the establishment. However, since his initial tussle with the developer, he has been assessed back taxes, accused of rat infestation, charges of litter and other complaints by District agencies.
He said the D.C. government’s actions were baseless.
“I was told that during the pandemic, my taxes would be in abeyance,” he said. “But I received a $70,000 tax bill and had my property sold at a tax sale. How can that be? I thought tax sales were suspended during the pandemic.”
Morgan fought the District government and won, but noticed that other Black property owners were similarly harassed with false vacancy notices and unfounded complaints.
He said the District government is harassing Black businesses on Georgia
Avenue and the immediate area to sell their properties to developers at a cheaper rate than the market would demand. Then, Morgan said, developers would either sell it at a higher price to make a healthy profit or build an upscale establishment on the property designed to make it profitable.
“This is happening throughout the whole [Georgia Avenue] corridor, but it is especially happening in lower Georgia Avenue,” Morgan explained. “Properties that are not owned by
COUNCIL REPORT from Page 24
author, Attorney General Brian Schwalb, for not consulting DYRS before introducing it, via D.C. Council Chairman Phil Mendelson, to the council’s Committee of Whole and what was then the Committee of Recreation, Libraries and Youth Affairs.
“We want to put it out there that there’s nothing in the act that reduces recidivism,” Abed told The Informer. “No evidence-based strategies, no things that targets causes… workforce development… or any of the things that are connected to rehabilitation. It’s driven by deadlines.”
Black people are left alone and are okay.”
THE VACANT TO VIBRANT BILL
On Nov. 15, Morgan was one of the non-government witnesses at a Committee of the Whole D.C. Council hearing on the Vacant to Vibrant Amendment Act of 2024, which aims to address blighted buildings in the District.
D.C. Council Chairman Phil Mendelson (D), who chairs the committee, is the author of the bill.
“For years, the committee which has had oversight over the Department of Buildings and its predecessors, the Department of Consumer Regulatory Affairs has heard complaints and seen firsthand problems with vacant property in this city,” said Mendelson. “And property oftentimes can become a nuisance and a significant blight to the community. It's a problem that the city has dealt with for decades, how do we get property that’s vacant back into use?”
The bill is an expansion of legislation enacted by the same title in 2004.
Mendelson said D.C. Council members Anita Bonds (D-At Large), Robert White (D-At Large) and Brianne Nadeau (D-Ward 4) are co-introducers of the measure.
Morgan was at the hearing to inform Mendelson on how his legislation should address the concerns of Black business owners.
“One of the things I have been trying to get the city council to do is put forward legislation of a $10,000 fine, $1,000 [fine] or community service and one year, if possible, in jail if you get caught putting graffiti in the District of Columbia,” Morgan said to Mendelson.
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Abed pointed out that the legislation doesn’t address the dearth of local placement options. He also told The Informer that OAG placed too much of an onus on DYRS for lowering recidivism when OAG, in its role, often decides whether to divert juvenile offenders.
“When we set up a system with diversion opportunities without a program or moving the case forward, that leaves the community member who learned they can get away with crime,” Abed said. “We should’ve had a conversation, but this was the decision the OAG decided to make. If you want to do reform, you have to work with the system.”
During the council breakfast on Dec. 3, Mendelson alluded to an amendment that, in response to Abed’s concerns, explicitly dismisses any presumption of release for youth who hadn’t received an assessment within 30 days. For several minutes, council members explored other points of the legislation, including how to measure recidivism.
As D.C. Councilmember Zachary Parker (D-Ward 5), chair of the council’s Subcommittee on Libraries and Youth Affairs, told colleagues, DYRS pushed back against what they called OAG’s inflationary measurement of 92% that tabulated all contacts.
However, Parker said the 50% figure that he deemed more accurate was still too high, much higher than what the Bowser administration acknowledges. He expressed his confidence that DYRS would be able to meet deadlines with the ROAD Act moving up the predisposition process earlier in a young person’s detainment.
“There is a need to have a clear eyed view of DYRS,” Parker said. “The agency needs work. The goal of this legislation is to improve re-
cidivism, which is upward of 50%. This bill gets at how we drive down recidivism and violent crime. Director Abed confirmed that if the agency had the proper staff, some of the goals embedded in the legislative mirror the directors’ goals to [then-committee chair] Trayon White.”
A DEBATE RAGES ON ABOUT HOW TO REGULATE FOR-HIRE FOOD AND PARCEL DELIVERY VEHICLES
During its additional Committee of the Whole meeting, the D.C. Council, in a 7-5-1 vote, struck down a measure to delay deliberation on the Carrier-for-Hire Oversight and Enforcement Act of 2024. The bill, introduced by D.C. Councilmembers Charles Allen (D-Ward 6) and Brianne Nadeau (D-Ward 1), permanently allows the Department of For-Hire Vehicles to issue citations against vehicles delivering food, beverages and parcels.
Several minutes later, during its legislative meeting, the council approved the legislation on its first reading by a 8-3-1-1 vote, with D.C. Councilmembers Kenyan McDuffie (I-At large), Trayon White (D-Ward 8) and Christina Henderson (I-At large) voting in opposition
This outcome came about despite McDuffie’s concerns about Nadeau’s overreach, as chair of the council’s Committee on Public Works and Operations, in shaping legislation that affects a constituency that he engages as chair of the council’s Committee of Business and Economic Development. Minutes earlier, Nadeau said she remained focused on a mission to reduce traffic fatalities.
“Some of the legislation is already in place through emergency,” Nadeau told The Informer. “The rest of it codifies things that companies are already doing. I don't see it as a big change. I see it as my responsibility in ensuring we have the correct food delivery regulations.”
As Nadeau explained, a driver, in their capacity as a ride-share vehicle, skirts the Department of For-Hire Vehicles by turning off its ride-share sign before transitioning into their job as a food delivery driver. WI
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5Romeo Morgan, owner of Morgan’s Seafood, located at the intersection of Georgia Avenue and Kenyon Streets in Northwest, has been advocating for Black entrepreneurs who are dealing with what he calls false vacancy notices and unfounded complaints. (Roy Lewis/The Washington Informer)
Incredible Vanishing Candy Canes
This experiment will reveal how candy canes react to di erent liquids. What do you think will happen?
Record your observations to see if you predicted the correct results.
Dr. I. Cicle’s Lab Equipment
Circle all the things that would be useful in a laboratory to conduct experiments. Do the math. The evennumbered items would be useful. The oddnumbered items would not be useful.
The MakeHolidays Scents
Maybe it’s because I have a carrot for a nose, but I don’t get to smell much of the wonderful scents the holidays bring each year. See if your friends and family members can identify the secret scents hidden in ve bags without looking in the bag.
Stu you’ll need:
5 paper bags
Marker
Choose any 5 of these items.
Question: How does a candy cane react when left in di erent liquids?
Hypothesis: Your guess at what will happen.
Find the words by looking up, down, backwards, forwards, sideways and diagonally.
Question: Will people be able to identify every scent? Which one will every person correctly identify?
Hypothesis: Your guess at what will happen.
Method:
Number the bags 1 through 5. Place the bags on a level surface. Place an item in each bag.
2. Have each person sni each bag and tell you what
Observation: Which scent was guessed correctly most often?
Which scent was guessed correctly least often?
Conclusion: Explain what this experiment taught you.
Holiday Sights
Look through the newspaper for each of these words related to
Weather or Not?
Meteorology is the science of weather. Look at the weather forecast in the newspaper. Observe the weather each day for a week to see if the predictions were correct.
Standards Link: Observe different kinds of weather patterns.
Holiday Jokes
Write down 10 of your favorite holiday jokes and riddles. Send them to a friend and ask them to send back 10 of their favorites!
2024 by Vicki Whiting, Editor Je Schinkel, Graphics Vol.
review wi book
"If
We Are Brave: Essays from Black Americana"
by Theodore R. Johnson
c.2024, Amistad
$30
208 pages
Terri Schlichenmeyer
WI Contributing Writer
What do you think?
You may remember the first time a respected adult asked you in earnest for your opinion, and you felt like you had arrived. Ten feet tall, you were. Suddenly a grown-up with viewpoints and thoughts that mattered. What do you think about sports, fashion, food, school, a new apartment or neighbor? In the new book "If We Are Brave" by Theodore R. Johnson, what do you think about current events?
Every summer for most of his childhood, Theodore Johnson traveled with his family from North Carolina to Georgia to visit relatives. There, Johnson always tried to insert himself in with the menfolk and was usually turned away — until one day, an uncle asked his opinion.
He still remembers it. By listening to your elders, he says, "you learn who your people are."
And yet, Johnson was a curious child, never wanting to take anyone's word, preferring instead to make up his own mind. When a church leader at prayer call told him that "God has a special plan for your life," Johnson was humbled but he knew the prophesy came with baggage.
His thirst for understanding hasn't diminished since then; in fact, it's ballooned.
Here, he dives into democracy in America.
Over the past months, you've undoubtedly heard about the subject and you noticed that the word seems to have a lot of slippery meanings. Johnson believes that these days, democracy can be used to do undemocratic things and most people hardly blink.
To "save democracy," we need to question all the things that affect it, and then reimagine it. We must examine why racism still exists, for example, and how it affected the last five election cycles. We shouldn't worry about changing democracy because we're already in the midst of change. We can look at history for proof of that. And we need to very watchful.
Says Johnson, when elected officials use the "instruments of government to divide and polarize" voters and public institutions, they can easily send democracy on a "death spiral."
It may seem like the kerfuffle over the election has eased some. Whether your candidate won or lost, you've had time now to let it settle in. So read "If We Are Brave" and get ready to have everything you thought you knew shook up like a snow globe.
Like the Black churches he writes so lovingly about, author Theodore R. Johnson "don't play." Once you're pilled into one of his stories, you can just as well find a good seat; you won't want to go anywhere anyhow. Johnson uses tales of his childhood and his classrooms to lead readers into understanding how we got to this point, politically, and how we might've seen this last election coming, had we just known where in history to look.
Reading this book is like having a private civics lesson, only way more interesting than it ever was in high school. It's sense-making, at a time when many things don't make sense. Start "If We Are Brave" and see what you think.
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horoscopes
LIFESTYLE
DEC. 5 - 11, 2024
ARIES A As the week begins, the cosmos gives you an opportunity to focus on "going underground" in whatever way serves you best. This might mean leaning into more mindful wellness practices like meditation or carving out solo time for working on a vision board. Either way, tuning into your intuition now and zeroing in on the dreams you most want to achieve will prepare you to take advantage of the upcoming months. Lucky Numbers: 7, 13, 47
TAURUS When the week starts, you're extra curious and reflective about your long-term goals and how you want to present them and your personal brand to the world. Downtime tends to be one of your greatest pleasures in life, so you'll likely enjoy leaning into this quiet energy that lends itself to understanding where you are at this moment and where you want to go from here. Lucky Numbers: 29, 32, 44
GEMINI The beginning of the week gives you an opportunity to share long-term professional goals with higher-ups, do research, and map out your game plan for achieving them. You'll do well to go big and be imaginative. The cosmos is supporting collaborative efforts with friends, neighbors, or colleagues. Dive into group activities, dates, or projects now. Lucky Numbers: 1, 6, 15
CANCER As the week starts, you'll be fired up to step into the spotlight on the job. You'll be required to step up to the plate and take on challenging work that can ultimately help you better understand and secure your deepest, most intimate connections and financial agreements. Lucky Numbers: 17, 19, 38
LEO At the start of the week you have an opportunity to speak up about your deepest desires. Allow yourself to embrace your wildest fantasies. Later, you'll slowly but steadily feel like it's time to get more serious and commitment minded around your closest relationships. This could mean taking that leap of faith and going into business with a close colleague or taking a romantic bond to the next level. Lucky Numbers: 3, 12, 30
VIRGO In the beginning of the week the cosmos encourages you to clarify, research, and gain momentum on one-on-one endeavors. Being open to a free-flowing, imaginative approach over a more rational one will serve you well. Later, your sensitivity is enhanced, especially when you're contending with any emotional issues with your significant other or a close colleague. Lucky Numbers: 4, 11, 14
LIBRA If you've been feeling a bit anxious about your schedule, you'll be able to get a grip on it once more early in the week. Although you're apt to put a great deal of pressure on yourself to hit the ground running, you'll do well to give yourself a moment to get back into the swing of things. Later, if you're attached, you can look forward to having greater self-assuredness around those one-on-one projects you've been wanting to tackle with your significant other. Lucky Numbers: 22, 34, 57
SCORPIO Embracing self-expression can be truly empowering at the start of the week. You're generally not the first one to blurt out those warm, fuzzy, sentimental thoughts and emotions, but now is the ideal time to give in to any urges to do just that and, in turn, set the stage for almost otherworldly chemistry and magic. Later, the stars breathe new life into your healthy habits and daily routine. Lucky Numbers: 28, 47, 58
SAGITTARIUS Early in the week you'll get a burst of energy and self-assuredness you can channel toward activities that bring you pleasure, joy, and creative fulfillment. Reminding yourself that you deserve just as much of those things as you put out into the world feels deeply empowering. This can help fuel any steps you choose to take to support your favorite forms of self-expression and your love life. Lucky Numbers: 13, 19, 25
CAPRICORN Your schedule is filled with to-dos and making artistic brainstorms more animated and productive as the week begins. Midweek, your attention turns to family matters and domestic pursuits, such as redecorating your home office or celebrating a milestone with loved ones. Later, think back to any foundations you laid related to moneymaking projects and investments a dozen years ago. Lucky Numbers: 24, 27, 39
AQUARIUS In the early part of the week you have a chance to research and connect with friends and colleagues about intriguing moneymaking plans. Just note that you'll do well to double-check all the details before diving in. Conversations with colleagues both old and new can prove downright inspiring and informative. Checking in with your intuition will be key as well. Later, your attention turns to self-improvement and ways you can perfect the conscious and unconscious messaging you're putting out into the world. Lucky Numbers: 8, 14, 17
PISCES At the start of the week you're bound to be even more of a dreamer than usual. Just make sure to give credence to your dreams and meditations, writing down what you believe to be the key takeaways. The stars will be providing you with a chance to reveal your aspirations, sharing them with your closest confidants and figuring out the best strategy for transforming them into your reality. Later, you're motivated to chase down exciting new clients or projects. Lucky Numbers: 21, 26, 28
Dunbar Turkey Bowl Win Vaults Them Into DCSAA Championship
By Ed Hill WI Contributing Writer
The Annual Turkey Bowl, held every year to determine the District of Columbia Interscholastic Athletic Association (DCIAA) football champion, has become a local Thanksgiving ritual.
For 55 years, two teams from the league have gathered on Thanksgiving morning for fans to see the best in the league, and this year on display were Dunbar and Coolidge, who played for the championship title at Eastern High School in Northeast, D.C.
While Dunbar proved victorious in the matchup on Nov. 28, the two schools were just a portion of this year’s special event. In addition to the game, coaches who served the football programs over 20 years were honored at halftime. The all-league members from the various teams, including the Player and Coach of the Year, were also honored as part of the halftime activities.
Yet perhaps the most emotional part of the game was a tribute to a beloved
member of the Coolidge coaching staff, Darnell Dailey, who died the following day after the team’s semifinal win over Eastern.
A tribute was paid to him in the Game Day souvenir program and before the matchup there was a moment of silence in his honor.
"He died doing what he loved," said Coolidge head coach Kevin Nesbitt. "It was so emotional for the entire program because of what he brought. He was more than just a coach. Trying to get the players ready for a championship with it happening is one of the most difficult things I have had to do. I told them that they have to not win for him but to go out and represent themselves and the program. That's what he would have stressed."
DUNBAR AND COOLIDGE GO TOE-TO-TOE IN HARD FOUGHT GAME
As for the game, Dunbar’s Crimson
Tide and the Coolidge Colts worked their ways through different paths to the championship.
Coolidge (5-6), which had not participated in the Turkey Bowl since 2011, defeated upstart Eastern High School (7-5) in the semifinals to get to the Turkey Bowl.
Dunbar (10-1), the defending champion, had a much easier path to the game after easily handling H.D. Woodson in the other semifinal. The Crimson Tide came into the game riding a nine-game win streak, the only loss coming back on to Friendship Collegiate.
Dunbar got on the board first when senior quarterback Brosnan Dukes hooked up with senior wide receiver Tristian Waters for a 66-yard score.
For the game, Dukes was named the MVP after rushing for a gamehigh 93 yards and completing 14 of 21
passes for 244 yards and a career-high 4 TD passes.
"He has really come on strong and grown up as a leader," commented Dunbar head coach Maurice "Bink" Vaughn of his senior signal caller. "I'm so happy for him. He has been a major part of the success of this program the past two years. I am going to miss this young man."
NEXT UP: DCSAA STATE CHAMPIONSHIP
Once upon a time, the Turkey Bowl signaled the end of the season, but there is yet another prize: the now coveted District of Columbia State Athletic Association (DCSAA) championship.
The DCSAA championship game features the same two teams
The Washington Commanders Defeat the Tennessee Titans 42-19 in Week 13
5The Washington Commanders now advance 8-5 after their 42-19 win against the Tennessee Titans on Dec. 1 at Northwest Stadium in Landover, Maryland. (Abdullah Konte/The Washington Informer)
By Skylar Nelson WI Intern
The Washington Commanders now advance 8-5 after their tremendous 42-19 home win against the Tennessee Titans on Dec. 1 at Northwest Stadium in Landover, Maryland.
This is the third game so far this season where the Commanders have scored 40 points or more, a record that has not been hit in team franchise history since 1991.
With Washington putting themselves back in the win column, they break their three-game losing streak and now have a positive outlook entering a long-awaited bye week.
This game against the Titans proved that when the Commanders aim for wide receiver Terry McLau-
rin great things happen offensively.
For weeks, Offensive Coordinator Kliffs Kingsbury received criticisms for not playing McLaurin enough or using him in crucial moments during games.
Kingsbury took the evaluations in full consideration against Tennessee by playing him early on, so much so, fans started multiple ‘Terry’ chants throughout the game.
“I’ve got to shout out the crowd because, you know, they give me energy when I hear them chanting my name and chanting for our team,” McLaurin said. “I wouldn’t rather play with anyone else. So, I’m extremely grateful and just excited. I’ve got to get going early, get in the field of the game, and try to make plays for us.”
A highlight of the day for quarterback Jayden Daniels was his play connection with McLaurin.
This connection solidified success for Washington’s offense and resulted in McLaurin receiving all eight of his passes.
“It’s the 13th game of the season, so, obviously, it’s still rapport; but it’s still our first year together,” said Daniels. “It’s going to continue to grow, continue to learn more about each other, and keep growing.”
After getting a brief break in Week 14, the Washington Commanders will hit the road for Week 15 against the New Orleans Saints on Sunday Dec. 15. Kickoff will begin at 1 p.m.
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3Dunbar High School is now the 2024 District of Columbia Interscholastic Athletic Association football champion, after defeating Coolidge in the Turkey Bowl on Nov. 28. (Marcus Relacion/The Washington Informer) from last year: Dunbar and Friendship Collegiate (8-3).
The game is scheduled for Saturday, Dec. 7 at Howard University's Greene Stadium and kicks off at 3:30 pm.
In last year's game, it was the Friendship Collegiate Knights who came away with the 35-13 victory for their second straight title and fourth in the last five years. It will be the 13th ranked Crimson Tide's third appearance since 2019.
"We want to do something that no one at Dunbar has ever done and that's win a state championship," proclaimed Vaughn of his team's motivation.
Friendship Collegiate is looking to capture its third straight DCSAA title and fourth in the last five years. The Knights advance to the game following a hardfought, 18-10 semifinal win over Eastern on Nov. 30.
Two of Friendship Collegiate's losses came from two teams ranked in the Top 10.
"This has been a challenging season for us," noted Friendship Collegiate head coach Mike Hunter, in his 10th season at the helm. "We lost a number of key seniors that we depended on, and we had to deal with complacency with winning back-to-back titles."
Hunter also weighed in on the competition.
"Coach Vaughn has done a great job of building a championship level program at Dunbar,” he said. “We have played them several times over the past few years and the games have all been competitive and exciting. We look for the same on Saturday." WI
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CAPTURE the moment
The District of Columbia marked the 38th Adoption Day on Saturday, Nov. 23, commemorating new beginnings for families and children finding their forever homes.
(Ja'Mon Jackson/The Washington Informer)
5Latesha McCalip is all smiles as she becomes the official guardian for her cousins Valentine and Sincere.
6 Thumbs up from Kasmir as he offically becomes apart of the Harrison Family
5Mayor Muriel Bowser speaking about her personal journey as an adoptive parent since 2019.
5Pamela A. Smith, chief of the Metropolitan Police Department, offering the keynote speech.
3The Wilson-Brockington family on D.C. Adoption Day, officially welcoming their newest addition, Jessey Wilson. The Wilson family consists of adopted children who are all siblings.
Advent: A Preview of the Reason for the Christmas Season
By Rev. Dorothy Boulware Word in Black
This article was originally published online with Word In Black, a collaboration of the nation's leading Black news publishers (of which The Informer is a member).
Advent is a peculiar season, one that might only be known by those who attend liturgical churches that closely follow the Christian calendar. Some people put up Christmas decorations and trees before Thanksgiving, while others plan multiple shopping trips for Black Friday, which, to some, seems to be the official signal that Christmas is on.
But the church calendar has another little season sandwiched between Thanksgiving and Christmas that is actually the beginning of the liturgical year. It’s called Advent. And it’s just that— a season between. A waiting period. A time to perfect waiting. A time of preparation. A time to stop and ponder. A time to meditate. And like the season of Lent that precedes Easter, it is a time to con-
sider the sacrifices of Jesus before the celebration of his resurrection.
Advent is observed for the four Sundays preceding Christmas.
In addition to the regular actions that characterize corporate worship, like preaching and teaching, an Advent wreath is displayed in full view of congregants. One of the four candles is lit each week with a scriptural reading to illuminate the themes of hope, peace, joy, and love. A white candle is in the middle and represents Christ and all he brings to the world.
Advent is a time to embrace the entire life of Christ before celebrating his earthly birth. It’s a time to focus on his second coming — he lived, ministered, died, was raised from the dead, and will come again.
The Rev. William Bailey, senior pastor of Christian Love Baptist Church in Baltimore, is making their Advent worship a time for family.
“We’re having different family members of our congregation read the advent lesson, light the candles, and then the entire congregation will sing the hymn, ‘Re-
joice, Rejoice Emmanuel,’” says Bailey.
A season as unknown as Advent lends itself to the interpretation of the worshiper. A season so small easily lends itself to the assignment of a theme or a purpose, such as justice.
Justice fighter and theologian Blythe Scott puts it this way: “We must live with a “holy discontent” — a burning in our hearts because we have a vision from Christ that there is something BETTER He desires for us and our world. A holy discontent that causes us to look at our cities and weep when we see pain or injustice, as Christ did when he looked over Jerusalem (Luke 19:41). We are called to feel the pain of any of our brothers and sisters who
are suffering, who are living under any type of injustice. We are called to feel sickened, to weep, to fight, as Christ did.”
Christians are always called upon to show forth the life of Christ, to be examples of the beloved community, and to be salt and light within that community.
Scott quotes A.W. Tozer: “A scared world needs a fearless church,” which is especially apropos in this post-election America.
“In this time of Advent, we are called to show the world that Christ has come near,” Scott continues. “Advent reminds us that one day He will return again, once and for all, and will make all things new. But until then, we are to be his hands and feet, a foretelling of this reality, furthering
His vision of renewal as much as we can while we are on this earth. In this time of Advent, we can show the world a glimpse of heaven – a glimpse of true peace and justice. We can bring Light into the darkness.”
WomanPreach!, an organization established to help women do just that; to help women determine what God sounds like in their throats, is offering reflections on Advent hymns as a way of capturing the time before Jesus’ birth for this year.
Dr. Tony McNeill, Jeffrey Allen Murdock, the Rev. Dr. Lisa Allen-McLaurin, the Rev. Dr. Alisha Lola Jones, and the Rev. Kendal Brown write about hope, peace, joy, love, and Christmas Eve, respectively.
The Rev. Raquel Gill, a WomanPreach 2022 Advent theme writer, ended her passage expounding on Paul Tillich’s premise, accept that you are accepted.
“Accept the fact that God called you. Accept the fact that God chooses you. Accept the fact that God loves you. Accept the fact that God made you significant just as you are! This holiday season, may you find your significance in the God who created you, the Savior who came to liberate you, and the communities that seek to affirm you.”
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5During the season of Advent, churches who closely follow the liturgical calendar display a wreath in full view of congregants. One of four candles around the circumference of the Advent wreath is lit each week with a scriptural reading to illuminate the themes of hope, peace, joy, and love. A white candle is in the middle and represents Christ and all he brings to the world. (Courtesy Photo)
RELIGION
What is the lesson to learn from the life of a horse born many years ago?
Since his birth, no other horse has beaten Secretariat's records. While visiting my family in my birth state of North Carolina, my family always put on some of our favorite movies to watch together. I had seen this movie long ago but didn't remember it right away. As I kept watching, it came back to me. To watch a movie about a horse that no other has ever beaten should have been in my permanent memory. So I watched it twice last weekend.
Secretariat won the Kentucky Derby and was the first horse to win in under two minutes. Next, Secretariat won the Preakness, and that record has never been broken. Finally, the horse won the Belmont Stakes — that was the finest record ever. That race was 1½ miles. His record will stand forever; it was a world record too! I love to watch his three Triple Crown races. When you're feeling down, this movie will cheer you up! In fact, watching this movie brought me to tears this past weekend. To watch that horse come from behind over and over again with such speed was unheard of. Then Secretariat would catch them all, pass every one of them and win, over and over again. It truly was amazing!
There is a quote by a gentleman who lived in Kentucky during Secretariat's lifetime. The man said, "Through the years I learned to love the Preakness almost as much. Watch it — the horses walk to the gate, and you'll see Secretariat almost put himself in the gate! After the break, the track announcer is calling the race,
WITH LYNDIA
GRANT
Run Your Race: A Lesson Learned From the Life of Secretariat the religion corner
and he says 'Secretariat is last' twice! It's as if he heard that and didn't like it. I wish the film was clearer so you could see how he puts his head down and is moving so fast; it was a sight to see! So no, his records haven't been beaten. I hope they never will be! But as I explained, no horse will ever beat his Belmont record."
Even with modern technology, advanced training, expert trainers and advanced breeding techniques, no horse has ever come within 2 seconds of Secretariat's record, which is a large margin of victory in horse racing.
What an exciting, true story. Secretariat was buried at Claiborne Farm in Paris, Kentucky, in a modest horse cemetery. When any of us are born, we may be one of God's chosen ones. When Secretariat was born, he walked on his legs as if he had been here a while. They all said, "I have never seen a horse walk like that when they are first born!"
How many of us were born in a similar manner, fully equipped for this journey, able to get the job done, regardless of how hard your circumstances may be? You came to this earth with exactly what it takes.
Let's look at some "what ifs" for Secretariat. What if his female owner had not seen the dream of a winning horse in her vision? Her father was dying, losing his horse farm, but though she was married and had four children, what if she had not taken over the horse farm before her father passed away, and she took the lead? They were offering her as much as $8 million to buy the horse, but she said no!
There were chances she took that no one else had taken, only to develop a winning horse that no one else was able to beat, not even more than 50 years later.
What if she had not searched for the best jockey to ride Secretariat to success? What if she had not kept someone around who cared for the horse? What if she did not have someone who kept him clean and fed him buckets of food before each race
— food that he knew would sustain him with the strength he needed?
Like the Scripture says in Romans 8:28, "And I know that all things work together for the good to them who love God and who are the called, according to His purpose!" Amen! Run your own race. Here are a few tips from the story of Secretariat:
• Never Underestimate Your Potential: Though Secretariat was not considered a top contender by most, his owner, Penny Chenery, recognized his exceptional talent and refused to give up on him, even when faced with skepticism from others. She stood alone!
• Overcoming Adversity: Despite facing setbacks and doubts, Secretariat's incredible speed and heart allowed him to push through and achieve greatness on the racetrack. Many horses had heart failure, but Secretariat's heart continued to withstand his excessively high speed.
• The Power of Belief: Penny Chenery's unwavering faith in Secretariat played a crucial role in his success, demonstrating the impact of a positive mindset. A popular quote associated with Secretariat, often attributed to Penny Chenery, is "Never know until you run," signifying the importance of giving your best effort and not limiting yourself based on perceived limitations.
How this translates to everyday life:
• Embrace Challenges: When faced with a difficult situation, remember Secretariat's determination to push through and achieve the seemingly impossible.
• Believe in Yourself: Just like Penny Chenery trusted Secretariat, have faith in your own abilities and potential.
• Give Your Best Effort: Always strive to put in your maximum effort, regardless of the obstacles.
Bottom - Founded in 1867 728 23rd Street, NW - Washington, DC 20037 Church office: 202-333-3985 Fax : 202-338-4958
Service and Times Sundays: 10 a.m. Holy Eucharist with Music and Hymns Wednesdays: 12:10 p.m. - Holy Eucharist www.stmarysfoggybottom.org Email: stmarysoffice@stmarysfoggybottom.org
All are welcome to St. Mary’s to Learn, Worship, and Grow.
Rev Kevin A. O'Bryant
401 Van Buren St., NW, Washington D.C. 20012 Office (202)-882-8331
Service and Times Sunday Worship 10:30 am Zoom: zoom.us/;/2028828331
Bible Study: Wednesday 7:00pm Communion Every First Sunday "Serve, teach and Live by precept and example the saving grace of Jesus Christ."
SUPERIOR COURT OF THE DISTRICT OF COLUMBIA Probate Division Washington, D.C. 20001-2131
2024 ADM 001294
Joseph J. Wassell aka Joseph J. R. Wassell aka Joseph John Raymond Wassell Decedent
NOTICE OF APPOINTMENT, NOTICE TO CREDITORS AND NOTICE TO UNKNOWN HEIRS
Joseph J. Guzek, whose address is 107 Sturbridge Road, Clarks Summit, PA 18411, was appointed Personal Representative of the estate of Joseph J. Wassell aka Joseph J. R. Wassell aka Joseph John Raymond Wassell who died on August 8, 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 5/21/2025. 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 5/21/2025, 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: 11/21/2024
Joseph J. Guzek 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 001353
Vernell M. Newson-Guest Decedent
Tina Smith Nelson, Esq. Legal Counsel for the Elderly 601 E Street, NW Washington DC 20049 Attorney
NOTICE OF APPOINTMENT, NOTICE TO CREDITORS AND NOTICE TO UNKNOWN HEIRS
Celestine Newson, whose address is 130 Pierce Street, NW, Washington, DC 20001, was appointed Personal Representative of the estate of Vernell M. Newson-Guest who died on 7/30/2022 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 5/21/2025. 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 5/21/2025, 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: 11/21/2024
SUPERIOR COURT OF THE DISTRICT OF COLUMBIA
Probate Division Washington, D.C. 20001-2131
2024 ADM 001315
Michael Shalay Johnson Decedent
Ethel Mitchell
8403 Colesville Road, Suite 1100 Silver Spring, MD 20910 Attorney
NOTICE OF APPOINTMENT, NOTICE TO CREDITORS AND NOTICE TO UNKNOWN HEIRS
Christof Yates, whose address is 305 Whittier Street, NW, #301, Washington, DC 20012, was appointed Personal Representative of the estate of Michael Shalay Johnson who died on October 10, 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 5/21/2025. 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 5/21/2025, 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: 11/21/2024
Christof 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 001337
Lucy W. Dunson Decedent
NOTICE OF APPOINTMENT, NOTICE TO CREDITORS AND NOTICE TO UNKNOWN HEIRS
Charles D. Dunson & Edward D. Dunson, whose addresses are 1215 Irving Street, NE, Washington, DC 20017 & 2800 Quebec Street, NW, #515 Washington, DC 20008 were appointed
Personal Representatives of the estate of Lucy W. Dunson who died on October 14, 2014 without a Will and will serve without Court supervision. All unknown heirs and heirs whose whereabouts are unknown shall enter their appearance in this proceeding. Objections to such appointment shall be filed with the Register of Wills, D.C., 515 5th Street, N.W., Building A, Third Floor Washington, D.C. 20001, on or before 5/21/2025. 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 5/21/2025, 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: 11/21/2024
Charles D. Dunson
Edward D. Dunson
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 000125
5/22/2018
Date of Death
Carlet Spearman Taylor Name of Decedent
NOTICE OF APPOINTMENT OF FOREIGN PERSONAL REPRESENTATIVE AND NOTICE TO CREDITORS
Nekia Staley Neither whose address is 16110 Mount Calvert Road, Upper Marlboro MD, 20772 was appointed personal representative of the estate of Carlet Spearman Taylor, deceased, by the Orphans Court for Prince Georges County, State of Maryland, on November 1, 2022.
Service of process may be made upon Harry Staley 3386 Highview Terrace SE, Washington DC 20020 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.
4645 Nannie Helen Burroughs Ave., NE, 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: 11/21/2024
Nekia Staley Neither 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 001335
Judi Adams Decedent
NOTICE OF APPOINTMENT, NOTICE TO CREDITORS AND NOTICE TO UNKNOWN HEIRS
Crystal Alana Stewart, whose address is 1306 S Street, SE, Washington, DC 20020, was appointed Personal Representative of the estate of Judi Adams who died on September 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 (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 5/21/2025. 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 5/21/2025, 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: 11/21/2024
Crystal Alana Stewart 1306 S Street SE Washington, DC 20020
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 000122
February 28, 2016 Date of Death
Phenton B. Moss Name of Decedent
NOTICE OF APPOINTMENT OF FOREIGN PERSONAL REPRESENTATIVE AND NOTICE TO CREDITORS
James Andrew Sullivan, Jr. whose address is 11 N. Washington Street, Suite 700, Rockville, Maryland 20850 was appointed personal representative of the estate of Phenton B. Moss, deceased, by the Orphans Court for Prince Georges County, State of Maryland, on May 16, 2024. Service of process may be made upon District Registered Agent Services Inc., 1025 Connecticut Avenue, NW, Suite 615, Washington, DC 20036 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: 3105 24th Street, NE, Washington, DC 20018. 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: 11/21/2024
James Andrew Sullivan, 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 001332
Mark Timothy Campbell Decedent
NOTICE OF APPOINTMENT, NOTICE TO CREDITORS AND NOTICE TO UNKNOWN HEIRS
Ebony Garvin-Campbell, whose address is 830 Kennedy Street, NW #6, Washington, DC 20011, was appointed Personal Representative of the estate of Mark Timothy Campbell who died on 7/23/2024 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 5/21/2025. 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 5/21/2025, 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: 11/21/2024
Ebony Garvin-Campbell 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 001319
Barbara C. Moore Decedent
NOTICE OF APPOINTMENT, NOTICE TO CREDITORS AND NOTICE TO UNKNOWN HEIRS
Elizabeth E. Whitfield, whose address is 732 Rock Creek Church Road, NW, Washington, DC 20010, was appointed Personal Representative of the estate of Barbara C. Moore who died on May 14, 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 5/21/2025. 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 5/21/2025, 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: 11/21/2024
Elizabeth E. Whitfield 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 001329
Barbara Little Decedent
Aimee D. Griffin, Esq. 5335 Wisconsin Ave., NW, Suite 440 Washington DC 20015 Attorney
NOTICE OF APPOINTMENT, NOTICE TO CREDITORS AND NOTICE TO UNKNOWN HEIRS
Lionel Little, whose address is 2105 Fort Davis Street, SE, Apt. 102, Washington, DC 20020, was appointed Personal Representative of the estate of Barbara Little who died on March 26, 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 5/21/2025. 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 5/21/2025, 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: 11/21/2024
Lionel Little Personal Representative
TRUE TEST COPY
Nicole Stevens Register of Wills
Washington Informer
Filed 11/14/2024
Superior Court of the District of Columbia
IN THE SUPERIOR COURT OF THE DISTRICT OF COLUMBIA CIVIL DIVISION
Bryan Powe 1347 Bryant Street N.E. Washington, D.C. 20018
Plaintiff vs.
Norman Grolman
14213 Georgia Ave NW #204 Silver Spring, MD 20906
And Unknown Personal Representative of the Estate of Norman Grolman 14213 Georgia Ave NW #204 Silver Spring, MD 20906
And The District of Columbia Office of the Attorney General 441 4th Street NW Suite 1100 South
Washington, D.C. 20001
The District of Columbia Office of the Mayor 1350 Pennsylvania Avenue NW Suite 316
Washington, D.C. 20004 And All Unknown Owners of the Property described below, their Heirs, Personal Representatives, Executors, Administrators, Grantees, Assigns or Successors in Right, Title, Interest, and Any and all persons having or claiming to have any interest in the leasehold or fee simple in the property and premises situate, lying and being in the District of Columbia described as:
Civil Action No. 2018-CA-002891-L(RP)
(Action Involving Real Property) Calendar #18
AMENDED ORDER OF PUBLICATION
In accordance with D. C. Code § 47-1375, the object of this proceeding is to secure the foreclosure of the right of redemption in the real property described as Square: 5875, Lot: 0907, which may also be known as a vacant lot with street address 2627 12th Place SE, which property was sold by the Mayor of the District of Columbia to the Plaintiff in this action. The Amended Complaint states, among other things, that the amounts necessary for redemption have not been paid. It is thereupon this 14th day of November, 2024,
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, a newspaper having a general circulation in the District of Columbia, once a week for three (3) successive weeks, notifying all persons interested in the real property described above to appear in this Court by the 2nd day of April, 2025, and redeem the real property by payment of $3,857.93, together with interest from the date the real property tax certificate was purchased; court costs; reasonable attorney's fees; expenses incurred in the publication and service of process; and all other amounts in accordance with the provisions of D.C. Official Code§ 47-1361 through 1377, et seq., or answer the Amended Complaint, or, thereafter, a final judgment will be entered foreclosing the right of redemption in the real property and vesting in the Plaintiff a title in fee simple. by:
Magistrate Judge Joseph E. Beshouri (Signed in chambers)
SUPERIOR COURT OF THE DISTRICT OF COLUMBIA
Probate Division
Washington, D.C. 20001-2131
2024 ADM 1387
Estate of Bennie Mae Daniels
NOTICE OF STANDARD PROBATE
Notice is hereby given that a petition has been filed in this Court by Brian L. Kass for standard probate, including the appointment of one or more personal representatives. Unless a responsive pleading in the form of a complaint or an objection in accordance with Superior Court Probate Division Rule 407 is filed in this Court within 30 days from the date of first publication of this notice, the Court may take the action hereinafter set forth.
In the absence of a will or proof satisfactory to the Court of due execution, enter an order determining that the decedent died intestate appoint an unsupervised personal representative
Date of first publication: 12/5/2024
Brian L. Kass 4301 Connecticut Ave., NW Suite 434 Washington, DC 20008
Petitioner/Attorney:
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 000813
Rose Toussaint 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
Aretha Somerville, whose address is 9701 Apollo Dr., Ste 100AS Largo, MD 20774, was appointed Personal Representative of the estate of Rose Toussaint who died on June 13, 2019 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 6/5/2025. 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 6/5/2025, 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: 12/5/2024
Aretha Somerville 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 001193
Bruce T. Adkins Decedent
NOTICE OF APPOINTMENT, NOTICE TO CREDITORS AND NOTICE TO UNKNOWN HEIRS
Karen Randolph, whose address is 2328 1st Street, NW, Washington, DC 20001, was appointed Personal Representative of the estate of Bruce T. Adkins who died on July 2, 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 6/5/2025. 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 6/5/2025, 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.
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 Patricia A. Carlton who died on December 2, 2022 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 June 5, 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 June 5, 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: December 5, 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 001131
Dorothy G. Williams Decedent
NOTICE OF APPOINTMENT, NOTICE TO CREDITORS AND NOTICE TO UNKNOWN HEIRS
Dietrich E. Williams, whose address is 2424 Skyland Pl., SE, Washington, DC 20020, was appointed Personal Representative of the estate of Dorothy G. Williams who died on August 31, 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 6/5/2025. 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 6/5/2025, 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: 12/5/2024
Dietrich E. Williams 2424 Skyland Pl., SE Washington, DC 20020 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 001362
Amelia L. Wallace Decedent
NOTICE OF APPOINTMENT, NOTICE TO CREDITORS AND NOTICE TO UNKNOWN HEIRS
Ahsia C. Pinckney, whose address is 3750 Jamison St., NE, Apt 224, Washington, DC 20018, was appointed Personal Representative of the estate of Amelia L. Wallace who died on July 18, 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 6/5/2025. 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 6/5/2025, 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: 12/5/2024
Ahsia C. Pinckney 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 001309
William Idell Jones, Sr. Decedent
NOTICE OF APPOINTMENT, NOTICE TO CREDITORS AND NOTICE TO UNKNOWN HEIRS
Gerald Alan Jones, whose address is 11606 Chantilly Lane, Bowie, Maryland 20721, was appointed Personal Representative of the estate of William Idell Jones, Sr. who died on July 6, 2022 with a Will and will serve without Court supervision. All unknown heirs and heirs whose whereabouts are unknown shall enter their appearance in this proceeding. Objections to such appointment (or to the probate of decedent’s Will) shall be filed with the Register of Wills, D.C., 515 5th Street, N.W., Building A, Third Floor Washington, D.C. 20001, on or before 6/5/2025. 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 6/5/2025, 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: 12/5/2024
Gerald Alan 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 001324
Keith Alpheus Silver Decedent
Bradley A. Thomas, Esq. 1629 K Street, NW, Suite 300 Washington, DC 20006-1631 Attorney
NOTICE OF APPOINTMENT, NOTICE TO CREDITORS AND NOTICE TO UNKNOWN HEIRS
Kevin Anthony Silver, whose address is 1605 Jackson Trace Court, Atlanta, GA 30318, was appointed Personal Representative of the estate of Keith Alpheus Silver who died on July 9, 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 5/21/2025. 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 5/21/2025, 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: 11/21/2024
Kevin Anthony Silver 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 001339
John Sims Decedent
NOTICE OF APPOINTMENT, NOTICE TO CREDITORS AND NOTICE TO UNKNOWN HEIRS
Linus Sims, whose address is 4725 Queens Chapel Terrace NE, Washington, DC 20017, was appointed Personal Representative of the estate of John Sims who died on December 1, 1991 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 6/5/2025. 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 6/5/2025, 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: 12/5/2024
SUPERIOR COURT OF THE DISTRICT OF COLUMBIA Probate Division Washington, D.C. 20001-2131
2024 ADM 1373
Kenneth Nathaniel Hall Decedent
Colline Silvera
Robinson Kirlew & Associate PC 7731 Belle Point Drive Greenbelt, MD 20770 Attorney
NOTICE OF APPOINTMENT, NOTICE TO CREDITORS AND NOTICE TO UNKNOWN HEIRS
Lynn Walkins, whose address is 1307 Beringer Drive, Hoschton, GA 30548, was appointed Personal Representative of the estate of Kenneth N. Hall who died on May 19, 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 6/5/2025. 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 6/5/2025, 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: 12/5/2024
Lynn Watkins 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 001361
Therese Arcole aka Therese M. Arcole aka TT Arcole aka Therese Marie Julie Arcole Decedent
NOTICE OF APPOINTMENT, NOTICE TO CREDITORS AND NOTICE TO UNKNOWN HEIRS
John Spencer Freebairn, whose address is 5010 Newport Ave., Bethesda, MD 20816, was appointed Personal Representative of the estate of Therese Arcole aka Therese M. Arcole aka TT Arcole aka Therese Marie Julie Arcole who died on August 22, 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 6/5/2025. 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 6/5/2025, 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: 12/5/2024
John Spencer Freebairn 5010 Newport Ave. Bethesda, MD 20816 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 001364
Mary Ann Davis
Decedent
Darrel S. Parker, Esq. 1822 11th Street, NW Washington, DC 20001
Attorney
NOTICE OF APPOINTMENT, NOTICE TO CREDITORS AND NOTICE TO UNKNOWN HEIRS
Marquetta Ann Davis, whose address is 4922 Just Street, NE, Washington, DC 20019, was appointed Personal Representative of the estate of Mary Ann Davis who died on September 22, 2021 without a Will and will serve without Court supervision.
All unknown heirs and heirs whose whereabouts are unknown shall enter their appearance in this proceeding. Objections to such appointment shall be filed with the Register of Wills, D.C., 515 5th Street, N.W., Building A, Third Floor Washington, D.C. 20001, on or before 6/5/2025. 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 6/5/2025, 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: 12/5/2024
Marquetta Ann Davis 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 001372
Themeta Coleman Decedent
Julius P. Terrell 1455 Pennsylvania Ave., NW Suite 400 Washington, DC 20004
Attorney
NOTICE OF APPOINTMENT, NOTICE TO CREDITORS AND NOTICE TO UNKNOWN HEIRS
Sandra Hale, whose address is 9662 Bergamont Ct., Waldorf, MD 20603, was appointed Personal Representative of the estate of Themeta Coleman who died on June 8, 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 6/5/2025. 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 6/5/2025, 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: 12/5/2024
Sandra Hale 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 AD 1018
Gladys L. Corley aka Gladys Louise Corley Decedent
Isaac H. Marks, Sr., Esq. 11785 Beltsville Drive, Suite 150 Calverton, MD 20705 Attorney
NOTICE OF APPOINTMENT, NOTICE TO CREDITORS AND NOTICE TO UNKNOWN HEIRS
Isaac H. Marks, Sr., Esq., whose address is 11785 Beltsville Dr., Suite 150, Calverton, MD 20705, was appointed Personal Representative of the estate of Gladys L. Corley aka Gladys Louise Corley who died on January 18, 2023 without a Will and will serve without Court supervision. All unknown heirs and heirs whose whereabouts are unknown shall enter their appearance in this proceeding. Objections to such appointment (or to the probate of decedent’s Will) shall be filed with the Register of Wills, D.C., 515 5th Street, N.W., Building A, Third Floor Washington, D.C. 20001, on or before 6/5/2025. 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 6/5/2025, 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: 12/5/2024
Isaac H. Marks, Sr., 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 000959
Theophilus 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 Theophilus Thomas who died on March 10, 2022 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 6/5/2025. 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 6/5/2025, 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: 12/5/2024
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 001436
Estate of Charles Leon Willie
NOTICE OF STANDARD PROBATE
Notice is hereby given that a petition has been filed in this Court by Cynthia Amanda Robertson for standard probate, including the appointment of one or more personal representatives. Unless a responsive pleading in the form of a complaint or an objection in accordance with Superior Court Probate Division Rule 407 is filed in this Court within 30 days from the date of first publication of this notice, the Court may take the action hereinafter set forth.
In the absence of a will or proof satisfactory to the Court of due execution, enter an order determining that the decedent died intestate appoint an unsupervised personal representative
Date of first publication: 12/5/2024
Cynthia Amanda Robertson 820 Headrow Terrace Hampton, VA 23666
Petitioner/Attorney:
TRUE TEST COPY
Nicole Stevens Register of Wills
Washington Informer
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ALSOBROOKS from Page 1
Jackson will serve as the county executive until an upcoming special election is certified.
“Thank you for your trust and partnership as we worked to build a stronger, united Prince George’s,” said Alsobrooks in a statement. “Serving the residents of this county has been the honor of my lifetime, and I am deeply proud of all we have accomplished together.”
Alsobrooks has been a barrier-breaking leader. She was the first woman to serve both as Prince George’s state's attorney and as county executive. Now, Alsobrooks will be the first Black senator to represent Maryland.
“I want to thank Angela Alsobrooks for her dedicated service to the people of Prince George’s County for the past six years as county executive. Angela worked tirelessly to make Prince George’s County a safer, stronger place to call home: we’re deeply grateful for her effort and for the results she achieved," said Gov. Wes Moore (D), who endorsed Alsborooks early in her race.
Moore, who Alsobrooks also endorsed in his succesful quest to become Maryland’s first Black governor, now has a close supporter in the U.S. Senate.
"We look forward to continuing our work together to uplift Maryland families, protect fundamental freedoms, and build a brighter future for our state in her new role as U.S. Senator, as we welcome the opportunity to continue to serve the people of Prince George’s County alongside acting County Executive Tara Jackson,” Moore said.
Alsobrooks’ leadership is often defined by new housing development and stewarding the county through the COVID-19 pandemic.
Even Hogan, her former opponent, frequently praised Alsobrooks during her tenure as county executive.
“I want to just thank the county executive for her incredible leadership. This really is her vision that brings us all together here today,” said Hogan during a joint press conference alongside Alsobrooks in 2022. “I want to sincerely thank you, Madam County Executive, for the incredible partnership that we’ve had through the entire time that you’ve been county executive. I want to say you’re doing a great job.”
For the first time in American history, two Black women will serve in the United States Senate concurrently: Alsobrooks and Delaware’s Senate-elect Lisa Blunt Rochester.
Legislators and County residents were quick to post thanks and appreciation for the work that Alsobrooks has
to fight to protect Marylanders from potentially harmful policies and plans proposed by the Trump administration. (WI File Photo/Anthony Tilghman)
done to move Prince George’s forward.
“Thank you County Executive Alsobrooks for your service to our beloved county,” said Delegate Jeffrie Long in a social media post.
Tonya Sweat, who ran for county executive in 2022 against Alsobrooks and plans to seek the seat in the upcoming special election, also praised the senator-elect for her leadership.
“Democracy wins today,” said Sweat.
EXECUTIVE VACANCY PUTS
SPECIAL ELECTION ON COUNTY MINDS
As Alsobrooks resigned prior to the appointment deadline, there will be a special election to replace her for the remainder of her term.
This election must be held more than 35, but less than 90, days after the vacancy was announced and could be scheduled on any Tuesday between Jan. 7 to March 4. The general election could be scheduled anytime between March 18 and May 6.
Some of the interested candidates include State’s Attorney Aisha Braveboy (D), County Council Chair Jolene Ivey (D), former County Executive Rushern Baker (D), and County Council AtLarge Calvin Hawkins (D). Treasurer Dereck E. Davis (D), who some have cited as a potential candidate, has dissuaded those rumors in recent days.
Baker was seen in a meeting with former staffer LaVonn Reedy Thomas, who was active in calling for Alsobrooks’ resignation to ensure that voters would have a say in selecting the next county executive.
Recent polling has shown that Braveboy and Ivey have an early lead; 46% of poll respondents view Braveboy favorably, while 39% are in support of Ivey.
"If a vacancy as County Executive for Prince George’s County becomes available, I will seek to fill the seat," Braveboy said in a statement earlier this
NOMINEE from Page 1
Program, advances the agency’s mission of gun violence reduction.
“I thought I knew more, but I was opening my mind, and opening up my career paths and networking skills,” said Ford, a Pathways ambassador and graduate of the program’s 18th cohort, at the very end of a three-hour confirmation roundtable hosted by the council’s Committee on Judiciary and Public Safety.
Ford said he joined, and successfully navigated the Pathways Program in recent years at the advice of past participants he knew from his neighborhood.
year. "I love this county. I grew up here, and I understand the needs of Prince Georgians because I am one."
She first announced her intention to run during the 2023 Black Caucus weekend and updated her social media to “Braveboy 4 Exec” shortly after Alsobrooks’ resignation was announced.
Ivey won the special election to replace former Councilmember Mel Franklin (D) and she made her interest in the county executive seat known after winning that race.
“Prince George’s County is at a crossroads. The next county executive must tackle the housing affordability crisis, improve our schools, support our businesses, and work with the community and police to reduce crime” read the Dec. 2 campaign announcement for Ivey.
WHAT’S NEXT FOR PRINCE GEORGE’S,
ALSOBROOKS SETS SIGHTS ON PROTECTING MARYLAND’S FUTURE
Alsobrooks is being elevated to the Senate amid contentious and uncertain times for Prince George’s County, the state and nation.
Republican control of all three branches of government will accelerate the implementation of the Trump administration’s agenda, which includes plans and policies that could be detrimental to Prince Georgians and people nationwide, such as: cutting Medicare and Medicaid, reducing protections for workers and consumers, and significantly reducing federal spending.
Alsobrooks is poised to fight back on behalf of Marylanders, especially federal workers.
WI
Read more on washingtoninformer.com.
“Everything I learned in this program, I can say launched my life into a better direction,” Ford told D.C. Councilmember Brooke Pinto, chair of the Committee on Judiciary and Public Safety. “I could say that for myself and other members of my cohort. Other ambassadors in previous cohorts are why I was in it.”
KWELLI SNEED MAKES HER CASE TO THE COUNCIL’S JUDICIARY COMMITTEE
The process to confirm Sneed is unfolding at a time when D.C. Councilmember Trayon White (D-Ward 8), an ally in the violence interruption community, is fighting a federal bribery charge and awaiting the release of a council ad-hoc committee report that will determine his future in the John A. Wilson Building.
Earlier this year, an indictment implicated White and employees of ONSE and other District agencies as alleged participants in a scheme to steer government contracts toward Life Deeds, a nonprofit that struggled with compliance during previous grant and contracting cycles.
At the start of the 2025 fiscal year, ONSE extended Life Deeds’ contract by another 90 days to allow for the transition to another vendor. Sneed confirmed on Dec. 2 that Life Deeds and ONSE will no longer have a relationship by the New Year.
After White’s arrest and arraignment, Pinto and Bowser put plans in motion to scrutinize violence interruption contracts. On Dec. 2, in response to Pinto’s question, Sneed spoke about ONSE’s work in recent months to enhance grantee compliance and bring the oversight process in-house.
“The grants manual fully shows
the transparency of what you’re expected to do to be in compliance in our space,” Sneed said.
Soon after, she delved into ONSE’s newly formed compliance unit.
“This unit of employees will be assigned to many of the new grantees to constantly work in tandem with them to make sure they’re leading the metrics, submitting documents and providing information on a timely basis,” Sneed said. “And if there’s a breach in that agreement, there’s a process they will be outlined to follow.”
On Nov. 22, Bowser announced Sneed as her nominee for ONSE executive director. The selection culminated a nationwide search that started after Linda Harlee Harper's death in 2023, Bowser said.
Sneed, a Ward 4 resident and second-generation D.C. government employee, has more than 15 years of experience in public service, with stints at Office of the State Superintendent of Education, Department of Public Works, Department of Parks and Recreation, and Department of General Services.
Bowser said that she felt confident putting Sneed before the council, based on the results of her work at ONSE, like violence reduction in priority areas, and the decrease in violent crime in recent months.
“It takes someone who knows government, who knows how to work in contracting and procurement, gain the confidence of the community, and have knowledge of the city,” Bowser said. “At the end of the day I determined, especially with Kwelli Sneed’s leadership through two tough times, that she's the right person for the job.”
By the time she became ONSE interim executive director in 2023, Sneed had worked closely with Harper in ONSE and what’s now called the Office of Gun Violence Prevention. She’s since hired subject-matter experts, explored the transition from a neighborhood-based to ward-based violence interruption strategy, and gelled plans together for the expansion of the Pathways Program’s workforce development component.
In her remarks before the D.C. Council’s Committee on Judiciary and Public Safety on Dec. 2, Sneed pledged to keep working in honor of her childhood friend Rico, who died from gun violence in the early 1990s, and Harper, whose death triggered Sneed’s ascent to interim leadership.
WI
Read more on washingtoninformer.com.
5Senator -elect Angela Alsobrooks plans
MALVEAUX from Page 30
she said, "I want to be remembered as a woman who dared to be a catalyst."
Dared. Catalyst. Audacious words for an audacious woman. And there are so many more than we need to remember, such as Dr. LaFrances Rogers Rose, a scholar who made her transition on Nov. 10. The pioneering leader founded the International Congress of Black Women, was a champion for Black women scholars and a selfless encourager of others. Like Chisholm, she had audacity.
CHAVIS from Page 30
for Black families to build savings and financial security.
Black Americans are far from the only group that would benefit from comprehensive swipe fees reform: Small-business owners and advocates across the country have been sounding the alarm and leading the calls. For small merchants, swipe fees are often their second-highest monthly cost after labor. These businesses — which operate on razor-thin profit margins — are forced to raise prices to stay afloat. The average American family pays more than $1,100 a year in higher prices due to these fees. The current swipe fee structure exists because the Visa-Mastercard
MARSHALL from Page 30
missing from the initial bill text is Title I funds, the federal government's largest annual funding stream for K-12 education.\
The funding is distributed to districts with larger populations of children from low-income families.
The bill fails to mention smaller department funding streams such as Title II, which funds teacher training and recruitment initiatives, and Title III, which funds services for English learners. The bill would send block grants to the states that they could use for "any purpose" related to early childhood, elementary or secondary education. Under the measure, the allocation would be driven by the number of students enrolled in each state's public, private and home schools without consideration of other factors, such as how many children live in poverty or have different specific needs. "They're trying to set it up that way so states can funnel some of that money to private schools, to home schools," said Nathan Favero, a professor of public
We don't have to go to the past, or even to the ancestors to find Chisholm-like women, because they are all around us. Consider, for example, LaTosha Brown, founder of Black Voters Matter. Or Barbara Arnwine, founder of the Transformative Justice Coalition, or Melanie Campbell, convener of the Black Women's Roundtable. So many sisters making a difference, a difference needed now more than ever. Exceptional audacity is needed during these times. Too many are choosing caution, apprehensive about what the incoming president
duopoly controls 90% of the U.S. credit card processing market, allowing them to set and increase rates for merchants while blocking out competitors.
Swipe fee reform isn't radical; it's about fair competition and a level playing field. The Credit Card Competition Act — a bipartisan bill being considered in Congress — aims to introduce competition into this marketplace by requiring at least two competing processing networks on each credit card. This could save American consumers and businesses an estimated $15 billion annually.
The CCCA won't end rewards programs — only the banks that offer them can decide that. In fact, a
administration and policy at American University.
With alternate goals in mind, how does any dismantling of the Department of Education impact families and students within the Black community, considering the number of Black students who depend on Pell Grants? How does it impact low-income families regardless of race?
While Republican lawmakers may be in favor of using taxpayer dollars for private and home schools, what about their MAGA constituents living in red states that are considered the least-educated states in the nation? These states include West Virginia, Mississippi and Louisiana. Other states at the bottom of the list include Arkansas, Oklahoma, Alabama, Nevada, Kentucky, New Mexico and Texas. Some of these least-educated states are also the nation's poorest. Do MAGA voters in favor of the closure fully realize the Project 2025 proposal could jeopardize the public school funding in low-income areas with white residents? Is their understanding of the Department of Education based
might do about our rights, our health and our environment. Too many government workers, many who are Black women, are tiptoeing because the Orange Man has threatened to "streamline" the federal workforce. We need more who, like Chisholm, dare to speak up and speak out. I'm so glad that New York City chose to honor Shirley Anita Chisholm with a day of her own. While she certainly deserves the day to herself, I'll think of it as Black Women's Audacity Day in honor of all of those who, like Chisholm, are catalysts for change. WI
recent study found that the CCCA would have little to no impact on rewards. What the bill would do is end a broken system that preys on those with the least and benefits those with the most.
Reducing swipe fees through pro-competition reform won't undo generations of economic inequality, but it's a step toward dismantling one of the structures that reinforce it. A fairer financial landscape benefits everyone, not just those most impacted — and Black Americans have paid more to receive less for too long. It's time for that to change. An inequality anywhere is a threat to equality everywhere.
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heavily on the ideas of youth being indoctrinated or in Project 2025 promoting the rejection of Martin Luther King Jr.'s idea of a colorblind society in favor of reinstating a color-conscious society?
In reality, can the full elimination of the agency be implemented?
"Right now, when we have the Department of Education, we have an entire agency where the leadership is thinking 100% about education because that's their whole mandate," said Favero. "Whereas if they slice and dice this up and it goes to different agencies...now education is just going to be a very small part of the portfolio that the organization does, and I don't think their leadership is going to have the same attentiveness to steer new initiatives." With conservatives about to control all three branches of the federal government — executive, judicial and legislative — parents who depend on long-term public school funding may need to take a greater interest in the school priorities of their state and local governments. WI
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WILLIAMS from Page 31
so many of us. If you don't know what I mean, and you haven't read his promises, please read Project 2025, and take a look at who Trump and Musk have chosen to lead Trump's plans for those of us who are not among their wealthy buddies who preferred to be led by a criminal than to vote for a brilliant and highly qualified Black/ Asian woman who ran circles around Trump!
MORIAL from Page 31
A. Aziz and Khalil Islam, were exonerated last year after an investigation by the Manhattan district attorney's office determined that the NYPD and FBI withheld key evidence that likely would have led to their acquittal.
Mujahid Abdul Halim, who confessed to the murder at trial, has always insisted Aziz and Islam were innocent. He initially declined to name his co-conspirators but later identified them as Leon Davis, Benjamin Thomas and two men whose full names he did not know, "William X" and "Wilbur or Kinly."
JEALOUS from Page 31
backlog in national parks and other public lands. At the time, then-executive director of the Sierra Club, Michael Brune, called it "one of the most important conservation bills in a generation." It passed in a closely divided U.S. Senate with overwhelming bipartisan support, by a vote of 73-25.
We now hope to replicate that success with passage of the bipartisan EXPLORE Act during the current lame-duck session or in the next Congress. That bill is a wide-ranging package of popular policies including the Outdoors for All Act and expansion of the Every Kid Outdoors program to make national parks and public lands accessible to more of America's youth.
One of my favorite current examples of a powerful multipartisan, common-ground-finding coalition at the state level is in the fight to stop a dangerous carbon capture pipeline in Iowa. A bill supported by that coalition to slow approval of land seizures for the project passed the Republican-majority Iowa House in March by a
Those who didn't vote, or didn't vote for the woman who was by far the best candidate to save our democracy, I pray they won't come crying and trying to join those who will remain working for the good of the country on the picket lines or in court as our rights are being taken away and as we are trying to get back what we've lost.
Our ancestors taught us to never give up the fight. When you see those MAGA caps, ask yourself, "Was America ever great for Black
The Manhattan D.A.'s investigation did not confirm the guilt of those men or outline a conspiracy among local and federal agencies. But the lawsuit claims the reason Malcolm X was denied entry into France 12 days before his assassination was that French authorities had learned of a CIA plot to murder him and feared he would be "liquidated" on French soil.
The CIA's unofficial motto is the Biblical verse "And ye shall know the truth and the truth shall make you free." Until these agencies acknowledge the truth surrounding Malcolm X's assassination, we cannot truly claim to be free. WI
vote of 86-7. That bill was unfortunately killed in the state Senate, by just a handful of powerful senators, before it could receive a floor vote. But coalition organizers are still fighting, and they believe the bill — or one similar to it — has the support to pass once they can get it to the Senate floor.
At the local level, I heard a story just this month that illustrates how, even when things seem bleak, there are still plenty of opportunities for progress. A Sierra Club volunteer leader receiving a lifetime achievement award for her work spoke to a crowd that was no doubt devastated by the results of the recent election. She told them she had, just the day prior, attended a board of supervisors meeting in her community where she and other community members convinced the body — composed entirely of Republicans except for one Democrat — to ban gasoline-powered leaf blowers. It was a reminder of how often straightforward local community organizing transcends politics.
This is just a small sampling of countless examples across the country of Americans who are not
people, and did they expect that any of their children or children's children would betray their efforts by supporting an uncaring criminal who cares about nothing other than himself?"
Trump told us Nov. 5 might be the last time we would ever have to vote! Those of us who believed him, will still be working for everybody to exercise that right. You might want to begin supporting those working to pass the "No Kings Act"! WI
The CIA's unofficial motto is the Biblical verse "And ye shall know the truth and the truth shall make you free." Until these agencies acknowledge the truth surrounding Malcolm X's assassination, we cannot truly claim to be free.
letting partisanship stand in their way as they work to make things better for their families and communities. The common ground is there if we bother to look for it. And look we must if we care about getting things done.
We do not have to agree on much for us to thrive together, in our families and communities, and as a country. For those of us fighting to get something done, we must remember: coalitions that include a variety of viewpoints are coalitions that ultimately win. Gen. Powell's words still ring true. WI
We do not have to agree on much for us to thrive together, in our families and communities, and as a country.
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