The Washington Informer - July 11, 2024 by The Washington Informer

I-83 Proponents Submit Thousands of Signatures to D.C. Board of Elections

Debate Rages on about Voter Turnout, Outside Influences, and Black Voting Power

By Sam P.K. Collins WI Staff Writer

The movement for ranked-choice voting and open primaries reached new heights with the collection -- and delivery -- of tens of thousands of signatures in support of Initiative 83.

On July 1, dozens of people representing Make All Votes Count DC converged on D.C. Board of Elections (DCBOE) headquarters in Southeast with six black boxes sitting atop a red wagon. Those boxes, Make All Votes Count DC members said, had 8,528 petitions with more than 40,000 signatures from voters representing all eight wards of the District.

“This is a historic moment. I'm really excited that we were able to gain momentum from all eight wards and hit a threshold,” said Lisa D.T. Rice, a Ward 7 resident and proposer of Initiative 83. “People from all across the city want to make this type of positive change.”

On June 4, which was primary elec-

Biden Visits D.C. Agency Announcing New Efforts to Curb Impact

of Natural Disasters

By Ashleigh Fields WI Contributing Writer

President Joe Biden recently paid a visit to the D.C. Emergency Operations Center where he met with D.C. Mayor Muriel Bowser and other

5 President Joe Biden meets with D.C. Mayor Muriel Bowser and other leaders to discuss a viable response to excessive heat. (Ashleigh Fields/The Washington Informer)

leaders to talk about local and national challenges and solutions to curb natural disasters. However, a major focus of the event was addressing the high temperatures and how his administration is working to reduce the rate of heat induced illnesses. “Extreme heat is the number one weather-related killer in the United States. More people die from extreme heat than floods, hurricanes, and tornadoes combined,” Biden stated in his opening remarks citing 10- degree plus weather in D.C. and Arizona, before drawing attendees attention to Hurricane Beryl, the earliest category 5 hurricane in the country’s history.

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DISASTERS Page 40

NFL CB KHYREE JACKSON, FORMER UMD ATHLETE DIED AT SCENE

Promising Athletes, Newly Minted NFL Player Killed in Tragic Accident Community

Mourns Loss of Former Wise High School Football Champions

By Richard Elliott WI Contributing Reporter

Khyree Jackson, who was recently drafted to the Minnesota Vikings, and his former Dr. Henry A. Wise High School teammates Isaiah Hazel and Anthony “A.J.” Lytton Jr,

5Khyree Jackson, AJ Lytton, and Isaiah Hazel were all tragically killed in a traffic collision in Upper Marlboro in the army hours of July 6. All three were under the age of 25. (Photo Credit: @BowieDogFootballvia Instagram)

were tragically killed in a traffic accident on Upper Marlboro’s Pennsylvania Avenue shortly after 3 a.m. on Saturday, July 6. Both Jackson and Hazel were pronounced dead at the scene of the accident, and Lytton died at the University of Maryland Capital Region Medical Center.

The incident occurred when another driver attempted to change lanes at a high speed and struck the vehicle with Jackson, Hazel and Lytton. None of the passengers in the

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STAFF

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REPORTERS

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STACY M. BROWN, WI SENIOR WRITER; JUAN BENN JR., CHEVROLET DISCOVER THE UNEXPECTED FELLOW

NATO Summit Sparks Commuting Concerns

Dozens of world leaders will convene in Washington, D.C. this week for the NATO Summit.

Support for Ukraine, Sweden’s induction into the alliance, and President Joe Biden’s leadership will likely be topics of discussion. However, something else has been occupying the minds of many D.C. residents ahead of this week’s event: traffic.

Detoured bus lines and temporarily closed sidewalks, roads, and metro stations are likely to impact Washingtonian’s commute.

Access to the areas surrounding the Walter E. Washington Convention Center, Carnegie Library, Mellon Auditorium, Mount Vernon Square, and the White House will be impacted from Tuesday, July 9 to Thursday, July 11.

Businesses and homes inside restricted zones “will generally be accessible,” according to a joint press release from D.C. Mayor Muriel Bowser and federal partners.

However, “vehicles and pedestrians may be required to

Senators

undergo security screening prior to entering,” according to the statement.

That includes rideshare and delivery services.

“We have a lot of experience hosting large-scale events in D.C.,” said Bowser. “We’re encouraging residents and visitors to plan ahead, sign up for alerts, and leave extra time and have patience if you are moving to or through Downtown.”

Metro is rerouting more than 20 bus lines until 8 p.m. Thursday, July 11, including the 70, D4, Red Line shuttle, and more.

Mount Vernon station will be closed all week from 11 a.m. Tuesday to 5 a.m. Friday.

“We are leaning on Washingtonians to do what they have done time and time again: exercise patience and understand that these impacts are needed to keep both summit attendees, visitors, and all our DC residents safe,” said Chief of the Metropolitan Police Department Pamela A. Smith. WI

Demand Special Counsel to Investigate Justice Clarence Thomas Over Undisclosed Gifts and Financial Omissions

In an unprecedented attempt to uphold judicial integrity, Sens. Sheldon Whitehouse (D-R.I.) and Ron Wyden (D-Ore.) have urged Attorney General Merrick Garland to appoint a special counsel to investigate Supreme Court Justice Clarence Thomas for potential violations of ethics, false statements, and tax laws. The request follows recent new revelations by the Justice and his wealthy benefactors of undisclosed gifts and financial omissions.

In a letter sent last week and released on Tuesday, July 9, Whitehouse and Wyden, who chair the Judiciary Subcommittee on Federal Courts, and the Senate Finance Committee respectively, pointed to solid evidence of wrongdoing.

“The evidence assembled thus far plainly suggests that Justice Thomas has committed numerous willful violations of federal ethics and false-statement laws and raises

significant questions about whether he and his wealthy benefactors have complied with their federal tax obligations,” the senators wrote. They stressed the need for a thorough investigation into Thomas’s financial disclosures and his relationship with his benefactors, emphasizing that “no government official should be above the law.”

The senators’ letter specifically calls for an investigation into Thomas’s failure to disclose more than $267,000 in forgiven debt used to purchase a luxury motorcoach.

The letter also outlined numerous undisclosed gifts from billionaire benefactors, including private jet travel, yacht trips, country club memberships, sports tickets, and significant financial support for Thomas’s family. In addition to these worries, a January letter written by Rep. Hank Johnson (D-Ga.) and other lawmakers highlighted potential conflicts of interest involving Ginni Thomas, the wife of Justice Thomas WI

Biden Defies Calls to Step Down, Asserts Commitment to 2024 Presidential Race

In a resolute stand against mounting pressure from within his party, President Joe Biden declared on Monday that he is “firmly committed to staying in the race,” directly addressing congressional Democrats who have recently suggested he should withdraw from the 2024 presidential election.

Biden’s two-page letter, which his campaign released, emphasized his resolve to stick with it and rally the party against the twice-impeached former President Donald Trump, who has been convicted of 34 criminal felony charges, massive business fraud, and a jury found him responsible for sexually assaulting a woman.

“The question of how we move forward has been well aired for over a week now,” Biden wrote. “And it’s time for it to end. We have one job. And that is to beat Donald Trump.”

The president acknowledged the concerns and fears

expressed by various party members but stood firm in his decision.

“I have heard the concerns that people have—their good faith fears and worries about what is at stake in this election. I am not blind to them. Believe me, I know better than anyone the responsibility and the burden the nominee of our party carries. I carried it in 2020 when the fate of our nation was at stake.”

He emphasized his preparedness to continue the campaign season and win the race.

“I can respond to all this by saying clearly and unequivocally: I wouldn’t be running again if I did not absolutely believe I was the best person to beat Donald Trump in 2024,” the president declared.

The Congressional Black Caucus (CBC) also has voiced

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In Memoriam

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

Local Nonprofit Fights Summer Hunger with Food and Farm Fridays

By Demarco A. Rush WI Reporting Intern

The summer months are a hot, three-month time for outdoor merriment and outside dining, but for some low-income families in the District of Columbia, the season can also bring uncertainty about nutrition and food security.

According to a recent study from DC Hunger Solutions, 41% of low-income students in D.C. ate free or reduced-price breakfast at school, and 59% ate free or reduced-price lunch at school. This means many families can’t afford to provide adequate meals to their children during the summer months while kids are home all day-- and that’s when programs like Building Bridges Across the River’s Food and Farm Fridays become particularly key to addressing hunger.

Residents trek to Food and Farm Fridays at THEARC in Southeast, D.C. (operated by Building Bridges

Across the River)--- from now until Nov. 15-- to fill their bags with vegetables like cabbage, onions, squash, and corn. On a particularly hot Friday recently, meals were also ready on site for anyone battling the scorching temperatures.

A local nonprofit, Building Bridges Across the River has spent almost 30 years working to address necessities for District residents, including food, arts and culture, economic opportunities, education, recreation, and health and well-being.

At Food and Farm Fridays people can pick up free, locally grown vegetables, fruits and herbs, attend cooking demonstrations, and receive prepared meals.

“Most places just give you a bag with a random assortment of produce. Here you can pick, it’s not random.” said Scott Kratz, senior vice president of Building Bridges Across the River.

Wards 7 and 8 in the District are officially declared “Food Deserts,”

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strong support for Biden, with California Democrats Rep. Barbara Lee and Rep. Maxine Waters defending him fiercely during a recent call with Democratic lawmakers.

“We are now at a point and time where people are talking about Biden is too old; hell I’m older than Biden,” Rep. Maxine Waters, 85, said. “Trump has told you who he is. He defined himself… He is a no-good, deplor-

an urban area where it’s difficult to buy affordable or good-quality fresh food.

This makes it difficult for people and families with limited transportation to get groceries efficiently. Food and Farm Fridays offers residents a site to purchase fresh, healthy foods.

“This is important for locals because there’s only one grocery store in the entire Ward 8,” said Kratz.

Senior Farming Manager J.J. Boone has spent 11 years serving District residents through Building Bridges Across the River.

“It takes a lot,” said Boone. “Harvesting, weeding, infrastructure, flipping compost, but I love it because it’s vital to have a close connection to what you’re doing.”

The farming manager emphasized the importance of the work.

“It means a lot to give back, it feels good to be [involved] in something that is not the norm,” said Boone.

Laticia Taylor, communications manager of Building Bridges Across the River’s 11th Street Bridge Park, emphasized that the food selections are available for people of all ages.

“It's for everyone, kids all the way up to seniors too,” said Taylor. “This is all about building a community. The community has spoken and [hunger] is a big issue, so we want to address it.”

able, lying, despicable human being.”

During the Essence Festival in New Orleans, other CBC members provided additional reasons for Black voters to continue supporting the Biden-Harris administration.

Waters assured the audience that she and Biden would continue to fight for the Black community.

“I want you to know that for the rest of my years, me and Biden are going to live a long time,” she said. “We are going to win.” WI

5Locals come out to pick fresh produce at Food and Farm Fridays at the Thearc Building. (Courtesy Photo/Building Bridges Across the River)

5 Free plants and flowers are given out to those interested.

(Photo Courtesy/Building Bridges Across the River)

AROUND THE REGION

JULY 11

1905 – W. E. B. Du Bois and William Monroe Trotter found the Niagara Movement, a Black civil rights organization.

JULY 12

1920 – Emmy-winning actress Beah Richards is born in Vicksburg, Mississippi.

1936 – Rose McClendon, founder of the Negro People's Theatre and a leading Black Broadway actress in the 1920s, dies in New York City at the age of 51.

1937 – Famed actor and comedian Bill Cosby is born in Philadelphia.

JULY 13

1966 – R&B singer Gerald Levert, son of O'Jays lead singer Eddie Levert, is born in Canton, Ohio.

JULY 14

1891 – Inventor John Standard of Newark, N.J., receives a patent for the refrigerator.

1934 – Golfer Lee Elder, who became the first African American to play in the Masters Tournament in 1975, is born in Dallas.

1941 – Professor Maulana Karenga, a major figure in the Black nationalist movement and the creator of Kwanzaa, is born in Parsonsburg, Maryland.

JULY 15

1961 – Award-winning actor, producer and director Forest Whitaker is born in Longview, Texas.

1970 – James McGee is sworn in as the first Black mayor of Dayton, Ohio.

JULY 16

1862 – Civil rights activist Ida B. Wells is born in Holly Springs, Mississippi.

1947 – Assata Shakur of the Black Panther Party and the Black Liberation Army is born in New York City.

1977 – Janelle Penny Commissiong of Trinidad and Tobago is crowned the first Black Miss Universe.

JULY 17

1862 – Congress passes the Militia Act of 1862, which allowed African Americans to participate as war laborers and soldiers.

BILLIE HOLIDAY

DIAHANN CARROLL

JOHN COLTRANE

AROUND THE REGION

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BY SARAFINA WRIGHT

In recognition of National Minority Mental Health Awareness Month, what’s a saying you turn to in difficult times?

LYDIA MACKLIN / JACKSON, MISS

“I am somebody.” - Jesse Jackson

JOYCE CHAPPLE / WASHINGTON, D.C.

“When you have done all you can, just stand strong, and it will move if you don’t give up.” That’s my go-to.

TALIBA JAMES / DAYTON, OHIO

DONALD D. / WASHINGTON, D.C.

“If you don’t stand up for something, you’ll fall for anything.” - MLK

“For these are all our children. We will profit by or pay for whatever they become.” - James Baldwin.

BRYAN DUNSTON / NEW YORK, N.Y.

“If you can only be tall because somebody is on their knees, then you have a serious problem. And my feeling is that white people have a very, very serious problem, and they should start thinking about what they can do about it. Take me out of it.” - Toni Morrison.

The Collins Council Report: The Legislative Meeting before Summer Recess

By Sam P.K. Collins WI Staff Writer

On July 9, the D.C. Council conducted its last legislative meeting before its summer recess.

This edition of The Collins Council Report recaps some of the major topics and takeaways from the legislative body’s final session before meetings resume this September.

A MISSION TO KEEP THE NATIONALS AS A LEASEHOLDER

On its first reading, the council unanimously approved the Ballpark Budget and Maintenance Amendment Act of 2024. D.C. Council Chairman Phil Mendelson (D) introduced this legislation last year in response to the Nationals’ longtime demands for facilities maintenance and repairs at Nationals Park.

5The D.C. Council unanimously approved the Ballpark Budget and Maintenance Amendment Act of 2024. (WI File Photo/Abdullah Konte)

on District taxpayers.

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.

Last year, the Nationals, the current leaseholders for the ballpark in Navy Yard, suggested that stadium revenue be diverted to a stabilization and modernization fund. By that time, the District’s sports teams had been vying for use of funds anticipated to be left over in the Ballpark Revenue Fund, which had been long used to pay for development, construction and renovation of Nationals Park.

Mendelson’s legislation reflects the desires of the Nationals in a manner that, as he explained on Monday to reporters, doesn’t incur additional costs

Per the legislation, the Ballpark Revenue Fund would be used to directly pay for the maintenance, repairs and improvements to Nationals Park until the revenue bonds are defeased. This can only be done after the Washington Convention and Sports Authority has used its funds and excess reserves to pay those costs.

The newly established Ballpark Maintenance Fund would then continue to finance the maintenance, repair and improvements to Nationals Stadium with money remaining in the Ballpark Revenue Fund after its defeasement, along with ballpark sales tax revenue and rent collected for the ballpark lease.

In speaking about the Ballpark Budget and Maintenance Amendment Act on Monday, Mendelson emphasized that it would lay to rest concerns about how the District would finance maintenance of Nationals Park.

“The rule of thumb with a stadium is that it’s good for 15 to 20 years then they need substantial upgrades,” Mendelson said. “The District isn’t responsible for some of the add-ons, but basically ensuring the stadium is state of the art. The legislation makes clear the funding availability to make that happen through the lease.”

A CRUCIAL CORRECTION TO A RETROACTIVE WTU CONTRACT

The D.C. Council unanimously approved a small -- but important -correction to the retroactive contract

that the Washington Teachers’ Union (WTU) negotiated with D.C. Public Schools (DCPS) and D.C. Mayor Muriel Bowser (D) in 2022.

This correction affects elementary school grade-level chairs, each of whom will receive an additional stipend of $1,000 per year through the Workforce Investment Fund, as agreed upon during contract negotiations.

In total, the District will spend $449 million between Fiscal Year 2023 and Fiscal Year 2026.

Since last spring, negotiations for the new teachers’ contract have stagnated because of disagreements about salary and student safety. In May, DCPS filed a Public Employee Relations Board (PERB) complaint against WTU alleging that the union violated confidentiality.

On June 26, PERB dismissed the complaint in its entirety at the request of WTU.

D.C. Councilmember Anita Bonds (D-At large), who, along with Mendelson, has kept abreast of developments in current contract negotiations, encouraged her colleagues on Tuesday to approve the contractual adjustment in the interest of public school teachers.

“It’s important for our government to keep our promises and fulfill our end of the deal when it comes to this agreement,” said Bonds, chair of the council’s Committee on Executive Administration & Labor as she pivoted her focus to the future contract. “All the teachers in this category re-

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COUNCIL from Page 8

ceived their stipend and there remains approximately $643,000 for this coming year. As we remember the teacher’s union contract is enforced, we do hope to get a new one.”

EXPLORING A TRUANCY REDUCTION PILOT

The council unanimously approved an emergency resolution that launches a pilot of the truancy referral pilot program outlined in Bowser’s UPLIFT Amendment Act. That program, to be facilitated by D.C. Department of Human Services, aims to increase student attendance and academic achievement by tackling issues that may be preventing them from attending school consistently.

Per the emergency resolution, the pilot program would involve students at five District high schools that ended the 2023-2024 school year with truancy rates at above 50%. Next year, DHS would submit two reports that analyze how students referred to the truancy reduction program fared in the areas of attendance, academics, and juvenile justice system involvement.

One of those reports, to be submitted during the budget season, could inform Bowser’s Fiscal Year 2026 budget proposal.

D.C. Councilmember Robert White (D-At large), a proponent for sustainable government spending, would later remind his council colleagues about the significance of data collection.

“This will give us the metrics to understand how well this program is or isn’t working,” White said on Tuesday. “We have to understand that we have programs working across the government, but we don’t have clear data about whether those programs are working. We have to make sure we’re not throwing taxpayer money at things that are not solving problems.”

EXAMINING A CONTROVERSIAL CLEMENCY BOARD NOMINATION

On Tuesday, the council approved three of Bowser’s D.C. Clemency Board nominations – but not without some discussion about a moment that’s still fresh in the nation’s collective conscience.

Because of D.C.’s lack of statehood, the D.C. Clemency Board, brought into existence through 2018 council legislation, cannot grant clemency. It can only make recommendations to the president and Department of Justice pardon attorney about recipients of pardons and sentence commutations.

The nominees – Dr. Amber Thornton, Attorney Mark Rollins, and Dominic “Chip” Henry -- each have professional backgrounds and experiences that D.C. Councilmember Brooke Pinto (D-Ward 2), chair of the Committee on the Judiciary and Public Safety, said would “add valuable expertise and perspective to the board.”

Thornton, a clinical psychologist at Children’s National Medical Center, specializes in motherhood, parenting, relationships, career, mental health and personal evolution. Meanwhile, Henry, a returning citizen and reentry consultant, has experience connecting hundreds of D.C. residents to jobs before their release from prison.

Rollins, a defense attorney of nearly 30 years, proved to be more controversial of the nominations. So much so that, during the council’s Committee of the Whole hearing, D.C. Councilmember Zachary Parker (D-Ward 5), requested that his nomination be moved to the non-consent agenda, a space reserved for subject-matter that doesn’t compel unanimous support.

Earlier this year, Rollins negotiated a plea deal for Fabod Azari, one of several people who stormed the U.S. Capitol on Jan. 6, 2021.

Rollins, who spoke to The Informer, addressed his decision to represent Azari, stressing that everyone has a “fundamental right to a fair defense, regardless of the nature of the allegations.”

For Rollins, this outlook translates into his work on the D.C. Clemency Board, where he would be responsible for reviewing clemency applications, weighing evidence, and taking each applicant’s rehabilitation efforts and potential for success into consideration.

“Clemency not only recognizes the progress made by those who have taken responsibility for their actions but also allows them to fully reintegrate into society as productive and valued members,” Rollins said. “I am eager to contribute to a more equitable and compassionate justice system that prioritizes both accountability and the possibility of redemption.

AROUND THE REGION

THE COUNCIL INCHES CLOSER TO MEMORIALIZING RON AUSTIN

On its first reading, the council unanimously approved the Ronald “Ron” Austin Memorial Park Designation Act.

This legislation, introduced by D.C. Councilmember Janeese Lewis George (D-Ward 4), officially names a park in the Manor Park community of Northwest in honor of Ronald “Ron” Austin, a lifelong D.C. resident and Coolidge High School alumnus who died in 2018 after decades of service to his community.

“At the public hearing, we heard Ron’s friends and colleagues testify to his service to the District and dedication to the community,” Lewis George told her colleagues. “When families go to the park, they will know that it’s named after a man who loved the District and its people.”

AROUND THE REGION

On Monday, July 8, District Mayor Muriel Bowser visited a Kitchen Confidential Culinary Camp, a D.C. Department of Parks and Recreation specialty summer program. Bowser joined the students in the Kenilworth Recreation Center on the first day of camp for a taste test as they learned about texture, smell and taste of food. (Ja’Mon Jackson/The Washington Informer)

“The way to right wrongs is to turn the light of truth upon them.”

Art historian and curator, Jeffreen M. Hayes, Ph.D., reading the latest issue of The Washington Informer Newspaper. (Jacques Benovil/ The Washington Informer)

Bloomberg’s Alex Clearfield Wins National Press Club Spelling Bee

By Ashleigh Fields WI Contributing Writer

Journalists and members of Congress tested their knowledge of the American language and familiarity with the dictionary on June 27 during the annual Press vs. Politicians spelling bee at the National Press Club. Scripps National Spelling Bee champion Bruhat Soma attended and served as a judge for participants ahead of the highly anticipated presidential debate.

The team of press spellers included Emily Wilkins, president of the National Press Club, Azi Paybarah of The Washington Post, Alison Fitzgerald Kodjak of ProPublica, Ben Nuckols of the Associated Press, Jessica Mendoza of the Wall Street Journal and Alex Clearfield of Bloomberg Law, who spent the night quailing over spelling strategies rather than debate controversies.

Weeks of preparation proved to be of benefit to Clearfield who successfully conquered uncommon words like waterzooi with ease.

“I knew waterzooi because it was played in a Scrabble video I recently watched,” Clearfield posted on X after the big win.

Wilkins used the platform to make political statements on the current state of detained reporters internationally. When she didn’t readily know the spelling of a word, Wilkins passionately spelled out the phrase “Free Austin Tice.” Tice, a freelance journalist and former marine, has been held captive for 12 years in Syria after an unexpected kidnapping.

As many believe he is being held by the Syrian government, the press club features a scrolling slide dedicated to bringing Tice home, tracking the days of his imprisonment.

“We fight for the rights of reporters,” Wilkins said in her opening remarks. “This includes the American journalists who are detained overseas, Austin Tice, Evan Gershkovich and Alsu Kurmasheva.”

Event sponsor Robert Weiner of Weiner and Associates celebrated the work of the National Press Club Journalism Institute.

“The National Journalism Institute of the National Press Club finds and features issues about journalism: who's fact checking whom, what is truth versus disinformation, who's getting hired and fired by which media and who is covering what about which subject, including the presidential race, and more,” said Weiner.

“I'm so proud of the National Press Club’s Journalism Institute, its President Gil Klein whom I've known and worked with for a lifetime, and the staff, that it was a natural for me to sponsor them.

And the Spelling Bee is just plain fun.”

This year marked the 11th spelling bee since its return in 2013, an idea sparked by Klein, who formerly served as chair of the organization’s History and Heritage Committee.

“The event started in 1913 with President Wilson and much of his Cabinet in the audience — the secretary of agriculture officiating. More than a thousand people attended, so the bee was moved to the Willard Hotel,” Klein told The Informer citing treasured history

between Sen. Miles Poindexter of Washington (R) and a House member who adamantly contested Rep. Frank B. Willis of Ohio ® on the form of the word hydrocephalus.

As the spelling bee evolved over the past century, the evening remains a cherished time for families, friends and colleagues to gather in good spirits.

Rep. Ashley Hinson (R-Iowa) celebrated her birthday while participating on stage next to Donald S. Beyer Jr. (D-Va.), whose family cheered him on from the front row.

In a post on X, Beyer referenced the bee as, “one of the great periodic confrontations in American politics, an epic contest of wit and will.”

The politician team consisted of additional lawmakers Suzanne Bonamici (D-Ore.), Chris Papas (D-N.H.) and Hillary Scholten (D-Mich.).

Eric Sorensen (D-Ill.) could not attend due to illness but fellow Congressmembers managed to put up a competitive fight for the title without him.

5 Alex Clearfield of Bloomberg Law celebrates his win at the annual Press vs. Politicians Spelling Bee at the National Press Club. (Ashleigh Fields/The Washington Informer)

PRINCE GEORGE'S COUNTY

Prince George’s County Political Updates

By Richard Elliott WI Contributing Reporter

GOV. MOORE LAUNCHES CANNABIS WORKFORCE DEVELOPMENT PROGRAM

Governor Wes Moore (D) announced the newly-launched Cannabis Workforce Development Program on June 27, another effort by his gubernatorial administration to implement cannabis legalization while including Marylanders who were left behind. This program is the first workforce development initiative by a cannabis regulatory agency, and comes on the heels of his pardons of over 175,000 Marylanders for cannabis-related offenses.

“This groundbreaking collaboration will support Marylanders interested in joining the state’s growing cannabis industry and prioritize individuals and communities directly impacted by the War on Drugs,” said Moore. “For decades, cannabis policy has been used as a cudgel. Together, we prove how cannabis policy can be

used as a valuable tool to leave no one behind.”

Program participants will have access to eight instructor-led, self-paced courses taught by industry experts, licensed operators, and college professors. Upon completion of 100 cumulative hours of virtual coursework and instruction, participants may enroll in a two-day intensive in-person course that provides 16 hours of hands-on occupational training. In-person training will be offered once per month beginning in November 2024 at locations across the state.

The first rollout of this program will begin in the Baltimore region in November, and the Prince Geroge’s rollout will happen in February of next year.

“Maryland is leading on cannabis reform and reinforcing that legalization must be accompanied by efforts to address the burdens of criminalization,” said Maryland Cannabis Administration Director Will Tilburg.

“Through this program, individuals adversely impacted by cannabis criminalization will be able to receive real-time, hands-on experience and access to job placement.”

For more information about the program, visit cannabis.maryland.gov. WI

COUNTY COUNCIL FINALIZES RENT STABILIZATION, GUN SAFETY BILLS

The Prince George’s County Council unanimously approved a preliminary rent stabilization plan on June 18 that is set for final approval next month. The stabilization plan will cap rent increases for multifamily housing built before 2000 at 3% plus the Consumer Price Index (CPI), with a maximum of 6%.

Single-family homes and any type of housing built after January 1, 2000, will be exempt from the proposed rent cap. Rent stabilization was originally signed into law following the February 2023 passage of a bill introduced by Councilmember Krystal Oriadha (D- District 7).

of our challenges holistically, for the entire County. Each Councilmember has important skill-sets. The At-Large members should have the big picture in mind for the County,” she said in an exclusive interview with The Informer. “As a former chair of the Prince George's House Delegation in Annapolis, I've had that experience, and now as chair of the Council, I am well positioned to have a greater role in guiding the county forward.”

Councilmember Wala Blegay (DDistrict 6) initially announced for the seat, but dropped out to endorse Adams following his July 3 campaign announcement.

Jazz Lewis (D- District 24), and North Brentwood Mayor Petrella Robinson. She has served as both a Delegate and county councilmember, offering her a unique grasp of how each level of government works in tandem.

She ran for the County Council in 2018 and is currently serving as chair while pursuing the At-Large seat.

“We need to ensure the safety of our communities. People need to feel safe, and they need to be safe,” she said about her biggest priorities on the Council currently.

3 County Council Chair Jolene Ivey announced her candidacy for the At-Large special election shortly after the Maryland Municipal League conference. Her campaign focuses include public safety and pursuing federal and state grants. (Anthony Tilghman/ The Washington Informer)

Another bill introduced by Oriadha passed on June 18 requires gun ranges and stores to display pamphlets with information on gun safety. Her bill was named after Grant Colefield, a young man who died by suicide at a gun range in 2019, and his family spoke in favor of the bill during testimony.

Following the resignation of former Prince George’s County Councilmember Mel Franklin in early June, nine candidates, including Council Chair Jolene Ivey (D) and Bowie Mayor Tim Adams, are vying for the vacant seat.

Ivey was first to announce her campaign on June 26.

“I'd like to be able to address more

“I have an ability to bring people together,” said Adams just before filing at the Prince George’s County Board of Elections. “My priorities are to look out for our seniors, make sure they have quality and affordable housing, and we need to make sure we have economic opportunity.”

South County advocate Tamara Davis-Brown and former congressional candidate Gabriel Njinimbot both filed their candidacies before July 4.

Delegate Marvin Holmes (D- District 23), former Board of Education Chair Judy Mickens-Murray, former Delegate Angela Angel, former County Council candidate Leo Eyombo, and Bowie resident Kiesha D. Lewis all filed on the July 5 deadline.

Ivey has been endorsed by over 50 elected officials, including former County Executive Rushern Baker, County Council Vice Chair Sydney Harrison (D- District 9), Delegate

“Jolene Ivey has been an incredible chair of the County Council,” said the former county executive. “She’s the best candidate for Council at Large and I’m proud to endorse her.”

Blegay shared why she is supporting the Bowie Mayor.

“Mayor Tim Adams is a successful business owner who has demonstrated an unwavering commitment to quality development, supporting our seniors, and fostering the growth of small businesses," said Blegay's campaign in a statement after she dropped from the race. "His vision and dedication align perfectly with the values and priorities that we hold dear in our Prince George’s County community."

Early voting will begin July 31 and end Aug. 5. Ballots will be mailed on July 23 and 39 drop box locations will be available throughout the county to return the completed forms. Each Council district will have one open site for the Aug. 6 election.

5 Bowie Mayor Tim Adams, who announced his intention to run for the County Council At-Large seat, pictured with former Delegate Cheryl S. Landis. (Robert R. Roberts/The Washington Informer)

By Richard Elliott WI Contributing Reporter

LISA HARRIS-JONES MAKES HISTORY AS MARYLAND’S HIGHEST EARNING LOBBYIST

Lisa Harris-Jones of Harris, Jones, and Malone is 2024’s highest earning Annapolis lobbyist, marking the first year that a Black woman led the pack in an industry that has been dominated by white men. She earned $2,666,850 over the first half of the year, the vast majority of which was billed during the Annapolis legislative session.

Some of Harris-Jones’ clients include the Baltimore Orioles, Baltimore Gas and Electric, and national corporations like Microsoft, McDonald’s, Home Depot and Walmart.

Gerry Evans, Timothy Perry, and Bruce Bereano, who have been active in lobbying for decades, also made more than $1.5 million this year. Black lobbysists represented half of the lobbyists with over $1,000,000 in client fees, including Frank Boston III, G.S. Proctor, and Delora Ifekauche.

Another six lobbyists earned between $500,000-$1,000,000 over the past six months. WI

NEW PJS COFFEE, CHICK-A-LICIOUS OPEN IN PRINCE GEORGE’S

Several new eateries across

Prince George’s opened early July, including a New Orleans-themed coffee house and a chicken eatery, which features flavors that cater to all.

A new PJs Coffee opened on July 1 in Camp Springs, bringing their signature coffee and beignets to a South County crowd for the first time. There is also a PJs Coffee in the Fairwood Shopping Center.

According to Franchise Development Director Tori Jones, there are also locations in Silver Spring and Linthicum Heights, as well as a new cafe under construction at The Mall in Columbia. The owner of the Linthicum Heights location is eyeing a new store with his additional licenses, possibly in or near Glen Burnie.

PJs Coffee estimates it requires a minimum of $150,000 in liquid capital and a net worth of at least $500,000 to open a single coffeehouse. Initial investments for a single unit can range from around $240,000 to $1.1 million.

Chick-A-Licious, located on St. Barnabas Road in Temple Hills, recently opened and offers signature chicken sandwiches, wings, shakes, and cake slices.

“Whether you’re a connoisseur of Southern cuisine or simply looking to savor the flavors of New York City, our menu promises a culinary journey like no other,” the Chick-A-Licious website explains. “Join us at Chick-A-Licous as we invite you to indulge in a gastronomic exploration that pays homage to the rich culinary heritage of both the Big Apple and the South.”

PRINCE GEORGE’S COUNTY

5 A new PJs Coffee opened in Camp Springs on July 1 and more are expected to open in the state soon. (Anthony

Washington Informer)

Tilghman/The

BUSINESS

By James Wright / WI Staff Writer

U.S. BLACK CHAMBERS INC.

TO HOST NATIONAL CONFERENCE, 15TH ANNIVERSARY CELEBRATION

The U.S. Black Chambers Inc. announced that its National Conference and 15th Anniversary Celebration presented by American Airlines will take place at the Waldorf Astoria DC from July 17-20.

The event will mark 15 years of commitment to fostering the growth and success of Black businesses. It represents a celebration of achievements and a strategic initiative designed to propel Black entrepreneurship to new heights of

briefs

success and influence.

The Rev. Al Sharpton, the president and founder of the National Action Network and the 2024 US Black Chambers Inc., Advocate of the Year, will serve as one of the speakers along with former Georgia Democratic gubernatorial candidate Stacey Abrams, former Sacramento, California Mayor Kevin Johnson, the Rev. Dr. Jamal Bryant and noted journalist Ed Gordon.

For more information, visit info@ usbcnetwork.com and usbc15.com.

WI

EXCELLENCE IN BUSINESS AWARDS

The Prince George’s Chamber

of Commerce announced that it is accepting nominations for the annual Excellence in Business

UNPACK A NEW BEGINNING

Awards Program.

The program is designed to highlight top leaders in the area who have demonstrated great innovation, strength, and perseverance while maintaining a commitment to impactful business and leadership. People who lead companies, small businesses or nonprofits that stand out in their dedication to philanthropy, are acting on racial equity, or whose body of work has made a lasting impact on the region are encouraged to fill out a nomination form.

The deadline to submit nomi-

“Since joining the chamber … I have helped to build several new initiatives, resulting in increased membership and partnership value, ensuring the organization remained a viable resource to our resilient business community during the pandemic and beyond,” she said. “I am grateful for the board and the staff’s leadership that will continue to propel the chamber forward.”

The honorees will be recognized at the organization’s Excellence innial Celebration” that will occur on Oct. 5 at the Gaylord National Harbor Hotel in National Harbor,

The chamber, which represents more than 1,000 local and regional businesses in the D.C. metropolitan area, will begin the search for a new leader in the coming weeks.

DC Chamber of Commerce -

co will step down after her term-

nization since July 2020, called it

“Angela has dedicated herself to advancing the D.C. Chamber’s mission for the past four years,” said Tonya Vidal Kinlow, chair of the chamber’s board of directors. “She has played a crucial role in achieving significant milestones and shaping the chamber into the business nucleus that it is today. Angela’s leadership has positioned the chamber for continued success after her departure. On behalf of the board, I want to thank her for her years of dedicated service and wish her the best in her future endeavors.”

The Washington Business Journal reported that Franco will “take the reins of the Montgomery County Chamber of Com-

5The Rev. Al Sharpton, MSNBC talk show host and president and founder of the National Action Network, will be one of the speakers at the U.S. Black Chambers Inc. national conference that will take place from July 17-20. (WI File Photo)

from Page 14

merce, succeeding Gigi Godwin, a spokesperson for the [MCCC] said on June 27. WI

BLACKBONE SUMMIT & EXCHANGE

The Second Annual BlackBone Summit and Exchange will take place on July 27 from 8 a.m.-6 p.m. at the Sycamore & Oak retail village on the campus of St. Elizabeths East in the Congress Heights neighborhood of Ward 8 in Southeast.

The theme for the event is “Get Connected, Inspired & Empowered.” People are encouraged to join the event for a day of empowerment, networking and growth. The focus is on Black women entrepreneurs understanding they face unique challenges in the business world.

The event is set to engage 1,000 Black women in a day-long summit that will include interactive activities, breakout sessions, and live performances.

For more information, visit www. blackboneproject.com.

CREDIT BUILDING COURSES

The Capital Area Asset Builders (CAAB) has launched a series of credit empowerment webinars this summer as a part of the organization’s DC Builds Credit and Prosperity Campaign for the benefit of low-and-moderate income Black, Latinx, and immigrant residents of the District.

The webinars are free on a weekly basis. On July 24, there will be a Best Practices for Achieving Financial and Credit Success webinar that will take place from 2-3 p.m.

“We are excited to offer the free Credit Empowerment webinars in English and Spanish as part of CAAB’s DC Builds Credit and Prosperity Campaign to intentional strategies CAAB has developed over the past five years to financially empower low-to moderate-income Black, Latinx, and Immigrant Washington,” said Joseph Leitmann-Santa Cruz, CAAB’s CEO and executive director. “We are proudly focusing on intentionally addressing and closing the racial wealth gap in the Washington, D.C. metropolitan region.”

For more information on DC Builds Credit and Prosperity, visit creditandprosperity.org.

WI @JamesWrightJr10

5Angela Franco is departing as president and CEO of the DC Chamber of Commerce and joining the Montgomery County Chamber of Commerce in Maryland. (Courtesy Photo/DC Chamber of Commerce)

Aimee D. Griffin, Esq.,

It is July already! That means we are halfway through the year! It was just six months ago that we had a new vision of what goals we wanted to achieve! It was the beginning of the year that we promised to get our affairs in order, including our physical and financial health. We know that getting ourselves financially and physically in order is not a destination but a journey.

We know many former school athletes had six pack abs and are incredibly muscle bound that became barrels and blubber with lack of effort and focus on maintaining the standard that we have achieved. Our goals and priorities regularly change. We have a privilege of making the commitment regarding how we want to set our goals and priorities. We just need to remember that our lives, like our bodies, are dynamic as well as our capacity to maintain and invest in the maintain. The relationships that we have today are not the relationships that we had yesterday and may not be the relationships we have tomorrow. People change. They move. They marry people we may or may not like. They get sick. They die. All these incidents change our relationships. I am startled by the number of calls that we have received when my answer has had to be, it is too late to take any initiative-taking steps at this point. We just need to wait until the transition happens. I have received quite a few calls that have sought guidance on how to manage the financial affairs of a person who no longer was responsive or was fighting dementia. A very real standard to sign any legal document is that someone must be of “sound mind.” That sound mind standard is not a truly clear black and white line but differentiated based upon the legal purpose. Signing testamentary documents has a different standard than signing a contract. The understanding of the information is the underlying principle. We, unfortunately, receive calls asking us to come to the hospital to have documents executed for people who are terminally ill. Many times, the courts have challenged documents that are executed close to the date of death. This, has often, created conflicts and controversy that impacts relationships and families and significant legal fees that could have been avoided, if our affairs were in order.

Far too often we wait unnecessarily. I encourage people to appreciate that there is no downside to planning in any situation. Planning for the worst while hoping for the best is the strategy that always leaves an individual, families, businesses, and communities in the best position. Alternatively, we find ourselves in situations that create reactions that are not prepared for with resources that do not honor and respect relationships that are important to us.

We have a responsibility to the people that we love and those who love us to flow with the dynamic lives with which we are blessed. We are excited to share that responsibility with you to create the plan and build the legacy that you would like for your family.

Aimee D. Griffin, Esq., The Griffin Firm, PLLC https://www.lifeandlegacy.law/ (855) 574-8481

5335 Wisconsin Ave NW Suite 440 Washington DC 20015 1401 Mercantile Lane, Upper Marlboro, MD 20774 1100 N. Glebe Road, Suite 1010 Arlington VA 22201 Halfway

NATIONAL

My ‘Black Job’ is to Protect Democracy

By Keith Boykin Word in Black

“Black Vote, Black Power,” a collaboration between Keith Boykin and Word In Black, examines the issues, the candidates, and what’s at stake for Black America in the 2024 presidential election. 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).

I’m not doing this again with y’all.

While Democrats debate how to respond to Joe Biden’s debate performance, Trump and the Republicans are plotting to erase the entire twentieth century.

That’s not an exaggeration. Donald Trump has publicly threatened to be a dictator on “day one” if he wins in November, and the Supreme Court justices he appointed have just immunized him from accountability and vested him with

the unchecked powers of a monarch.

If Trump wins, he would empower an army of radical rightwing activists who plan to implement Project 2025, dismantle civil rights, women’s rights, and LGBTQ rights, rescind long-established progressive laws and policies, and swing a wrecking ball against the fragile institutions of government and democracy.

Yes, Joe Biden is a flawed candidate, but Donald Trump is a threat to America. If anyone should withdraw from the race, it’s the twice-impeached convicted criminal.

But some critics are making the same miscalculation they made with Hillary Clinton. A Trump victory will not bring on a progressive people’s revolution, strengthen third-party candidates, or buy us time to elect a better Democrat in the next election. It will set us so far back that it will take decades to unravel, no matter who wins in 2028. America cannot afford to make that mistake again.

Back in 2016, I was teaching at Columbia University when college

AWhile

Democrats debate how to respond to Joe Biden’s debate performance, Trump and the Republicans are plotting to erase the entire twentieth century.

That’s

not an exaggeration.

students were complaining about Hillary Clinton as the Democratic nominee for president. Many raised legitimate concerns, including her support for the unpopular war in Iraq. But others raised less substantive issues. She’s not likable. She panders. And the most memorable critique: they didn’t believe her when she appeared on “The Breakfast Club” and announced that she carried hot sauce in her purse.

I, too, opposed the war in Iraq, and that was one reason why I voted for Barack Obama instead of Clinton in the 2008 presidential primary. But now it was 2016, and Clinton was the Democratic nominee facing a Republican opponent, Donald Trump, who posed a clear and present danger to democracy.

“If Hillary Clinton wins, we may have a liberal majority on the Supreme Court for the first time in nearly 50 years,” I posted on Twitter a few weeks before the election.

That was eight years ago.

Now, as Trump cements his legacy on the right-wing court, that opportunity could be lost for a generation, as Republicans have appointed six of the nine Supreme Court Justices.

Joe Biden is not the ideal candidate to represent the Democratic Party. He’s an 81-year-old white man leading a party that is increasingly represented by young people, women, and people of color.

I worked for Biden’s opponent when he ran for president in 1988. I did not vote for Biden when he ran the second time in 2008. And I did not support him in the Democratic primary in 2020. I even wrote articles criticizing him after he was elected president. But I did vote for

him in 2020 because I knew he was the best available option.

I am not invested in the question of replacing Biden on the ticket. I would vote for Biden, Kamala Harris, Gavin Newsom, Gretchen Whitmer, Wes Moore, Pete Buttigieg, or any other credible candidate that Democrats nominate. This election is not about them. It’s about protecting our rights.

For five years, I covered Trump as a political commentator for CNN, following his racist speeches, midnight tweets, and unhinged press conferences. Some Americans may not remember the constant chaos and crises from Charlottesville to Covid that defined the Trump years, but I do, and I refuse to go back.

I know that Democrats prefer young, articulate, charismatic presidential candidates in the tradition of John F. Kennedy, Bill Clinton, and Barack Obama. I do too, but the young guys don’t always deliver. It was not JFK, but an older, less attractive Lyndon Johnson who signed the landmark Civil Rights Act of 1964, 60 years ago today. As Jesse Jackson said at the 1984 Democratic National Convention, “I would rather have Roosevelt in a wheelchair than Reagan on a horse.”

Trump is far more entertaining than Joe Biden, but a presidential election is not a popularity contest. It’s a job interview. Unfortunately, the majority of white voters plan to install a twice-impeached, quadruple-indicted, convicted criminal with a 50-year history of racism in the most powerful position in America.

My Black job, if there is such a thing, is to stop them. WI

I-83 from Page 1

tion day in D.C., Rice spent much of her time at the polls reminding voters, party identification notwithstanding, that non-party voters couldn’t participate in local contests that, to some degree, would determine the District's new leadership. She said that attracting a broad base of support over the last six months required she and her comrades to, in part, address concerns that ranked-choice voting and open primaries disadvantaged Black District residents.

Days after the primary election, Wendell Felder clinched the Democratic nomination for the Ward 7 D.C. Council seat with less than 25% of the votes collected, and less than 26% of the electorate having participated in the process. Similarly, in Ward 8, D.C. Councilmember Trayon White won re-election in a contest where less than 20% of registered voters cast their ballot.

Though she didn't speak in support or against Felder, Rice, an advisory neighborhood commissioner representing Single-Member District 7B07, said that the crowded field in the Ward 7 D.C. Council race highlighted the need for ranked-choice voting.

“Candidates would learn a new way of campaigning: talking to more people,” Rice said. “I think more people would be motivated to come out if they didn't think they were wasting their vote or someone being a spoiler. More people would be excited.”

THE DEBATE ABOUT HOW TO INCREASE VOTER PARTICIPATION

Between July 1 and July 4, DCBOE counted the signatures submitted and found that petitioners collected signatures from 5% of the total number of registered voters in the District and met other preliminary requirements. This milestone triggered the 10-day challenge period, which ends on July 13 at 4:45pm EST.

As of July 8, no one has challenged the Initiative 83 petitions.

If voters approve Initiative 83 during the general election in November, 50% of the vote becomes the new threshold of victory in electoral contests with three or more people. Non-party voters -- one out of six registered D.C. voters -- will also be able to vote in primary elections for the first time since Home Rule.

Nearly 30 states have at least one jurisdiction that uses ranked-choice voting. Over the last 20 years, more than 400 elections have used that voting system. As of February, 15 states -- including Georgia and Wisconsin -- have open primaries in which voters choose a party ballot instead of receiving one based on their registration.

Ranked-choice voting, also known as the instant run-off, allows voters to rank candidates in the order of preference, with their most preferred candidate going first. From that point, all first votes are counted with the candidate to accumulate 50% being declared the winner.

If no one secures 50% of the vote, the race goes into the second round and the candidate who clinched the fewest first votes gets eliminated. All the voters who ranked that candidate first have their next highest ranking candidate counted for the next round.

The process repeats itself until one candidate secures 50% of the vote.

Phil Pannell, a Ward 8 community leader and Initiative 83 supporter, said the process would be like any other where people list their preferences. Pannell told The Informer that, in his capacity as treasurer of Make All Votes Count DC, he pushed back against what he called a D.C. Democratic Party-engineered assertion that ranked-choice voting would confuse voters living east of the Anacostia River.

“People rank their choices all the time, like parents who go through the school lottery or when people apply to public housing, “ Pannell said, “Establishment Democratic Party activists are…not open to change and that’s unfortunate because our Democratic Party leaders are not advancing

I-83 Page 19

Greenpeace, Inc.

IT Solutions Manager Washington, D.C.

$212,950-$216,000

Responsible for managing the design, development, testing and implementation of project workstreams that support the Organization’s overall technology program. Responsible for managing and planning of client equipment and software budget. Lead the Solutions Specialists team and manage the Senior Cyber Security and System Architect to a variety of challenging, high priority objectives.

Must have a bachelor’s degree in computer science, Information Systems, or a related field. Must have five (5) years of experience as an IT Solutions Specialist or a related field. Must have five (5) years or experience with the following programming languages and operating systems: Windows 10 & 11, and all versions of MacOS. Must have five (5) years of experience in implementing, configuring, and testing IT solutions. Must have five (5) years of experience in managing remote hardware admin tools, firmware, and software distribution. Must also have five (5) years of experience in a technical support team, supporting MacOS, Microsoft Windows and/or ChromeOS computers. Remote work allowed 50% of the time.

Qualified candidates should send their resume to gpusa-resumes@greenpeace.org, and reference job code ISM1403.

Greenpeace, Inc.

Business Intelligence and Analytics Manager Washington, DC

$149,600-$171,400

Responsible for the planning, design and implementation of business intelligence and analytics reporting across the organization. Work closely with stakeholders to ensure the timely and accurate flow of critical information to serve fundraising, programs, supporter engagement, finance, human resources and administration teams.

Must have a bachelor’s degree in business administration or a related field. Must have four (4) years of experience as a Business Intelligence Analyst, Business Intelligence Consultant or Decision Support Analyst. Must have four (4) years of experience working with and analyzing multiple types of data from a variety of sources to build management reports and support organizational decision making. Must have four (4) years of analysis and business intelligence experience including understanding of relational and predictive modeling concepts, tools, and data management best practices. Must also have four (4) years of experience working with large databases, reporting, and visualization tools (Tableau, Looker, PowerBI, etc.). Remote work allowed 75% of the time.

Qualified candidates should send their resumes to gpusa-resumes@greenpeace. org, and reference job code BIAM1403.

5Wendell Felder. (WI File photo / Anthony Tilghman)

June Jobs Report Reflects Biden’s Steady Economic Leadership, Record Job Creation

By Stacy M. Brown WI Senior Writer

A recurring theme from supporters of President Joe Biden since the debate debacle has remained: “Look at my record.” Biden himself said, “I know how to do this job.”

The latest jobs report has shown that the Biden-Harris administration has been as effective as any other in American history.

According to the Labor Department’s report on Friday, July 5, the American labor market produced another solid month of employment gains in June. The economy added 206,000 jobs, while the unemployment rate edged up to 4.1% from 4% the previous month.

This marks the 42nd consecutive month of job growth, with teen employment also reaching new

heights. In June, 37.3% of 16-to19-year-olds were employed, the highest rate for that month since 2007.

Addressing the latest figures, President Biden emphasized the administration’s track record.

“With today’s report that 206,000 jobs were created last month, a record 15.7 million jobs have been created during my administration,” Biden said in a statement. “We have more work to do, but wages are growing faster than prices and more Americans are joining the workforce, with the highest share of working-age Americans in the workforce in over 20 years.”

Though the unemployment rate slightly increased, economists suggest this may not indicate a downturn.

Tom Simons, a U.S. economist at Jefferies, noted to reporters:

“Rather than indicating a big decline in labor market demand, we view this data as a sign that workers themselves have better opportunities for full-time employment such that they do not have to go to a temp agency.”

The broader unemployment rate, which includes discouraged workers and those working part-time for economic reasons, held steady at 7.4%. Household employment, used to calculate the unemployment rate, rose by 116,000. However, the household survey also showed a decrease of 28,000 full-time workers and an increase of 50,000 part-time workers.

Nonfarm payrolls increased by 206,000 for the month, surpassing the Dow Jones forecast of

JUNE JOBS Page 19

The Future Depends on Us

DC PLUG is a multi-year project that is designed to protect the District’s most vulnerable power lines by placing them underground and improving grid resiliency where you work, live and play.

5According to the Labor Department’s report the economy added 206,000 jobs, while the unemployment rate edged up to 4.1% from 4% the previous month, with the report showing the Biden-Harris administration has been as effective as any other in American history. (WI File Photo)

200,000, though it was below the revised gain of 218,000 in May.

JUNE JOBS from Page 18 feeling squeezed by the cost of living,” he said. “I’m fighting to lower costs by taking on corporate price gouging, capping the cost of insulin and prescription drugs, and calling on Congress to lower rent by building 2 million new homes.”

David Russell, global head of market strategy at TradeStation, commented on the data to CNBC, saying, “The job market is bending without yet breaking, which boosts the argument for rate cuts. Things are not too hot and not too cold.

Goldilocks is here, and September is in play” for a Fed rate cut.

Government employment has nearly returned to its pre-pandemic level and trend, adding to the overall positive outlook.

Despite these gains, President Biden acknowledged ongoing challenges.

“Too many Americans are still

I-83 from Page 17 election reforms.”

He emphasized the need for change is seen at the polls.

“Things are not getting better as we saw in the primary election results last month,” Pannell told The Informer. “There are reasons why people are not coming out.”

Last year, the D.C. Democratic Party released a statement in opposition of ranked-choice voting and open primaries, saying that both would undermine the party’s power in the District and further exacerbate low voter turnout.

Charles Wilson, chair of the D.C. Democratic Party would later tell The Informer that ranked-choice voting doesn’t get to the heart of why Ward 7 and 8 voters don’t come out to the polls at the same rate as their more affluent counterparts.

He cited undervoting and overvoting -- situations where voters choose fewer or more candidates than allowed on an at-large D.C. Council ballot -as a foreshadowing of the difficulties that lie ahead for voters in the new system.

That’s why, for Wilson, voter education serves as the more viable response to low turnout. During the election season, the D.C. Democratic Party conducted candidates forums. The organization also hosts monthly voter engagement sessions and livestreams events, all part of what Wilson calls an effort to increase participation among voters who are on the periphery of the local political scene.

“Voters just want to know if their government is going to look out for

Biden contrasted his administration’s efforts with those of Congressional Republicans, asserting that their policies would “supercharge inflation” and impose high tariffs, costing middle-class families thousands of dollars annually.

“While they fight for Park Avenue, I’ll keep fighting for working families like the ones I grew up with in Scranton,” Biden concluded.

@StacyBrownMedia

their best interests [and] there are people who don’t think government does that,” Wilson said. “They don’t see the change in their quality of life and feel left out.”

A QUESTION OF WHO THE MOVEMENT REPRESENTS

As Ward 8 resident Patrice Lancaster continues to mull over the impact of ranked-choice voting, she said she increasingly feels convinced that it would decimate Black voting power in communities east of the Anacostia River.

She calls Initiative 83 one the newest tricks that white progressives are using to amass influence across the District.

“Because they don’t have the relationships east of the Anacostia River, they need to reform the Democratic process to get more candidates that they like on the ballot,” Lancaster said.

“We can’t stop believing in people’s dignity and ability to make their own decisions.”

Lancaster, a community organizer and youth advocate, recounted seeing postings from community members in the Ward 8 online forum who tied Ward 8 Councilmember White’s recent electoral victory to voters’ lack of political knowledge. She said that such a viewpoint insults Black residents and disregards their insistence on forming personal relationships with their leaders.

INTERNATIONAL

The leader of the Niger Republic military regime, General Abdourahamane Tchiani, has announced that his country and two other junta-led allies, Burkina Faso and Mali, have turned their backs on the Economic Community of West African State (ECOWAS).

Tchiani disclosed this while speaking at the opening of the maiden summit of the Alliance of Sahel States (AES) in the Nigerien capital Niamey on Saturday, July 6.

AES is the new front formed by the three Sahel allies to advance economic and security relations following their exit from ECOWAS earlier this year.

The gathering was attended by junta leaders from Burkina Faso and Mali, General Ibrahim Traore and Colonel Assimi Goita, respectively.

“Our people have irrevocably turned their backs on ECOWAS,” Niger’s ruling General told his fellow Sahel strongmen at the gathering on Saturday.

Relationships between the three nations and the sub-regional body have strained since the takeover of power through coups between 2020 and 2023.

ECOWAS had imposed several economic and security sanctions on the trio to restore democratic rule.

Last September, Burkina Faso, Mali, and Niger set up a mutual defense pact to ward off ECOWAS' threat of military invasion of the latter after the deposition of the democratically elected President Mohamed Bazoum.

The three nations also announced in January their intention to exit the regional bloc over the accusation that the body had derailed from its core responsibilities.

In May, foreign ministers of Burkina Faso, Mali and Niger agreed in Niamey on a draft text creating a new confederation, which their military leaders were expected to adopt at the ongoing summit.

“The AES is the only effective sub-regional grouping in the fight against terrorism,” Tchiani declared on Saturday, while faulting France for not providing enough support for anti-jihadist efforts in the region. He also called ECOWAS “conspicuous by its lack of involvement in this fight”. WI

The New St George’s School of Sciences will open its doors this September for the 2024-2025 academic year. This significant announcement was made by Minister of Education, Priya Manickchand, during the National Grade Six Assessment results ceremony at the Arthur Chung Conference Centre (ACCC) in Liliendaal, The Guyana Chronicle reported on Sunday, July 7.

“This year, we have a new school. We’re currently building 27 secondary schools across the country. And a few will be finished in September. In Georgetown, there will be the St George’s School of Sciences,” Minister Manickchand stated, highlighting the ongoing efforts to expand educational infrastructure.

The New St George’s School of Sciences represents a pioneering initiative, serving as a dedicated pathway for students with a keen interest in the medical sciences. Minister Manickchand emphasized that this modern facility will be the first of its kind, specializing in this critical field.

“This school will be strictly preparing students for careers in medical sciences, so we’re very happy to make that one of our very first specialized types of schools for students who didn’t get the national tops or the list As, but who we believe have great potential and we’re going to show that in five years,” she said.

Entry to this specialized school will be selective. Minister Manickchand detailed the eligibility criteria, stating, “For a student to be eligible for this school, he/she must have been living in Georgetown, not earned a place in a list A school, and gained 80% in English, 60% in Mathematics, 65% in Science, or at least those grades.”

The new institution will replace the former St George’s High School, which was destroyed by an electrical fire in July 2022. The swift construction of the New St George’s School of Sciences is a testament to the People’s Progressive Party/Civic Government’s dedication to providing quality and accessible education for the nation’s children. WI

5Niger, Burkina Faso, Mali junta leaders bid farewell to ECOWAS. Military leaders of the three Sahel nations formed a new alliance to deepen economic and security relations after exiting ECOWAS. (Courtesy Photo)

5Guyana Minister of Education Priya Manickchand, who announced the new St. George’s School will open in September. (Courtesy Photo)

“This time, it’s TREATMENT WORKS.

Sponsored by JPMorganChase

How To Take Action And Help Protect Older Adults From Scams

Anyone can be a victim of scams. They happen when scammers go after individuals of all ages, using tactics like phone calls, emails and messages to reel in unsuspecting victims to get to their money and personal information.

Older adults are often key targets and it is important to stay alert to common scams and financial abuse signs that can help protect older loved ones from becoming a victim.

KNOW THE SIGNS OF A SCAM

Scammers have grown very convincing. They often can impersonate companies or organizations and make you believe the urgency or need behind their attempts. If you encounter the following signs, you’re likely dealing with a scammer.

1. Urgent demands to take action, send money and personal information requests. An imposter may demand quick action, claim that you will lose money, and push for access to your personal account informa-

tion, passwords or confirmation codes. Remember: neither banks nor the government will threaten you or demand money to protect your accounts. If you receive a call from your bank that you are unsure about, hang up and call the number on the back of your credit or debit card.

2. New relationships that take an interest in their money Financial abuse often happens from persons known to the victim, like a caretaker or a new acquaintance. Be wary of any new friends approaching you with investment “opportunities” or who take an interest in your financial information.

3. Unexpected contact from “loved ones.” Scammers can use artificial intelligence (AI) to replicate familiar voices, posing as friends or family. They’ll call you on the phone sounding like a loved one in danger and demanding that you send money. Hang up and contact your loved one directly to confirm it’s really them.

4. Unusual financial activity. Scammers could be accessing your account if you see withdrawals or changes to your accounts, such as new authorized users or missed bill payments. Also, be sure to keep

your checkbook safe and keep an eye on check activity. Automate all the payments you can and discuss who are trusted contacts to support money decisions if you ever need help.

5. Changes in ownership and responsibility. If you notice changes to wills, power of attorneys or any other financial plans, it could be a sign of financial abuse.

TAKE ACTION TO AVOID SCAMS

You and your loved ones don’t have to be victims. These steps can help reduce the chance of falling for a scam:

• Ignore and block calls and messages from numbers you don’t recognize and don’t trust caller ID alone. When in doubt, hang up and contact the company, bank or loved one directly to ask if there is a problem.

• Throw away unsolicited mail and be careful with suspicious

emails or messages on social media. Don’t answer questions about personal finances.

• Keep your personal information, account details and passwords safe so you don’t give scammers access to your money and identity.

• Be cautious when using checks. Digital payment methods or your bank’s online bill payment feature can help you get money to your intended recipient while eliminating paper checks that can be stolen and altered.

• Enable online alerts to be aware of large purchases. You can act quickly if you see fraudulent charges.

• Shred bank statements, receipts, unused checks and credit cards before throwing them away.

If you’re an older adult, have conversations with trusted family members about how they can support your money needs as you age, which can help protect you from being exposed to fraud and financial exploitation. For those with older loved ones, start the conver-

sation now and use digital tools to help alert you to possible scams. Remember that financial scams can happen to anyone. If you feel you’ve been scammed, contact your bank to verify recent transactions to ensure there is no unusual activity on your account. Don’t feel embarrassed if you become a victim, share your experience with friends and family and ask for help.

You can learn more about ways to detect financial abuse and to protect loved ones at chase.com/ financial abuse.

For informational/educational purposes only: Views and strategies described may not be appropriate for everyone and are not intended as specific advice/recommendation for any individual. Information has been obtained from sources believed to be reliable, but JPMorgan Chase & Co. or its affiliates and/or subsidiaries do not warrant its completeness or accuracy.

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

HEALTH

Essence Festival Features Howard University Dermatologists, Doctors Talk Disparities in Field

By Ashleigh Fields WI Contributing Writer

Even with the lively, large crowds, local food staples and cultural attractions, many said one of the most enjoyable aspects of Essence Festival was the em-

phasis on education. Throughout the Ernest N. Morial Convention Center, people offered intricate panels, lessons and tips for Black women to prioritize health, self-care and educational and career opportunities.

L’Oreal sponsored Howard Uni-

versity skin care experts Dr. Cheshana Kindred and Dr. Cheri Frey to address the lack of equity in dermatology and explain why it's so hard to find doctors that can cater to the specific needs of Black women.

“Like many of us growing up I watched “The Cosby Show” and that’s what inspired me to be a doctor,” Kindred, a Howard University graduate shared. “It wasn’t until my fourth year in college that I knew I wanted to be a dermatologist.”

Both Kindred and Frey shared that they didn’t know much about the industry before deciding to pursue a career in the field.

Statistics show less than 3% of dermatologists are Black.

Frey, who currently teaches at Howard University, believes the small Black representation in her field is due to the lack of awareness and limited number of programs offered to students seeking residency.

“I receive about 600 applications for 3 or 4 spots,” Frey said on stage. “Increasing the number of residency spots is something we need to do. I think there’s more interest, thankfully, now in dermatology. But some of the reasons that we see a disparity is that we need to grab people earlier. The interest needs to be there earlier so that they are on the right path in the beginning so they can match into the right program for a really competitive field like dermatology.”

Kindred, noted the importance of institutions being more purposeful in providing opportunities for students of color to pursue medical careers.

“There’s a reason why we’re only 3%. It’s a reason why the number of medical students and physicians who are Black are actually making it through the career,” Kindred said. “We have to, with the same intensity, intentionally get our kids into medical school. We need to create more scholarships for each other, we need to create more mentoring programs for each other, we need to make sure they aren’t falling through all

of these trap doors that are out there.”

According to Yale, Black students are 83% more likely to leave medical programs and 50% more likely to graduate with only an M.D. as opposed to a Ph.D. to pair it with.

At the Essence Festival, those in the medical field emphasized how deliberate guidance can edify students who are interested in science and medicine from an early age.

“No more having a smart kid and hoping they make it through, get that kid with someone who knows how to get them through each phase on how to become a physician,” said Kindred who recommended those interested in pursuing dermatology visit nmaderm.org.

The site features African American professionals as a part of the National Medical Association’s dermatology section. The organization, established in 1940, has over 100 dermatologists who serve as active members that are open to empowering others coming behind them.

Attendees said the panel helped them better understand why representation in the medical field matters. Out of the 500,000 people who traveled to New Orleans for the 30th annual Essence Fest celebration D.C. mother and daughter duo Brittany and Shirlita Baker were touched by the panel.

“Sitting in on the skincare panel with two Black dermatologists was like having a heart to heart conversation because you don’t see many Black dermatologists,” said Baker, who ventured over 1,000 miles away from home for an enlightening experience. “Growing up I struggled with skincare and I wish I had professionals like these in my life. I will definitely bring back what I’ve learned today and share it with others.”

5Howard University skin care experts Dr. Cheshana Kindred and Dr. Cheri Frey took to Essence Festival to share about their journey in dermatology and why in recent years, universities aren’t seeing more students like them. (Courtesy Photo/Essence)

EARTH OUR

Hurricane Beryl’s Path of Black Destruction

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).

More than 2.3 million homes and businesses are without power after Hurricane Beryl, downgraded to Category 1 after hitting category-5 wind speeds last week, made landfall in Houston, Texas, on Monday.

The storm slowed even more after moving off of the water and over Texas and continued to dump water over the city as a tropical storm, leading to extensive flooding. Parts of Houston have seen 10 inches of rain, and certain areas could see as much as 15 inches. And as was seen with Hurricane Harvey in 2017, it’s often the city’s Black neighborhoods where the floodwaters crest the highest.

The destruction in Houston marks yet another area with a sizable Black community that Beryl has hit since forming in the tropical Atlantic late last month. The storm, which is abnormally large from so early in the hurricane season, first made landfall in Grenada on July 1 at Category 4 wind

speeds, and then cut a path across the Caribbean, causing damage in Barbados, Trinidad and Tobago, Haiti, the Dominican Republic, Jamaica, and other island nations before making landfall in Mexico and turning toward the north.

“I’m scared but mostly f****** livid,” Rueanna Haynes, a climate negotiator from Trinidad and Tobago, wrote on Twitter. During COP 21 in Paris back in 2015, she spoke about how vital it was for the future of island nations to keep warming below 1.5 degrees Celsius. Now, not quite a decade later, global temperatures have been over that threshold for an entire year, and we’re seeing hurricanes like Beryl hit Category 5 during a time of year when storms tend to be much smaller.

While it didn’t make direct landfall, with just the eyewall skirting the southern coast, Beryl reached Jamaica as a Category 4, the strongest hurricane to ever hit there. Nearly all of Kingston’s 1.24 million residents lost power.

greenhouse gasses, those who con tribute most to global warming, you are getting a lot of talking, but you are not seeing a lot of action,”

Ralph Gonsalves, the prime min ister of St. Vincent and the Gren adines, which is two-thirds Black

and was devastated by Beryl, told The Guardian, “as in making money available to small-island developing states and other vulnerable countries.”

Not all storms cut such a distinctly Black path, and Beryl did cause significant damage in Mexico’s Yucatan peninsula, too. But its

trajectory reminds us who is often at the greatest risk when hurri canes blow through.

The disparity in risk for Black Americans is pronounced even with in the hurricane-prone southeast: Black residents are nearly twice as likely to be affected by a storm than white residents are.

The destruction in Houston marks yet another area with a sizable Black community that Beryl has hit since forming in the tropical Atlantic late last month.

EDUCATION

The Pursue Foundation’s Freshman Sendoff to Support Another Crop of Local High School Graduates

Students, Past and Present, Reflect on Impact of Annual Program

By Sam P.K. Collins WI Staff Writer

This summer, shortly after graduating from Ron Brown College Preparatory High School in Northeast at the top of his class, Evan Bowie started introductory coursework at Georgetown University in Northwest as part of a postsecondary journey to becoming a surgeon.

Despite a nearly all-expense paid

academic scholarship, Evan, like other college students across the country, still finds himself in need of school supplies, bedding, toiletries, and other essential materials.

“I don’t have a job like most people do [so] I have to find ways to make money for myself and buy things for my nursing courses,” said Evan, 17.

However, thanks to The Pursue Foundation, securing these items has become less of a concern.

On July 20, Evan and nine other District high school graduates will receive dorm and school supplies during the Freshman Sendoff, an event that The Pursue Foundation hosts annually for first-generation college students. This event, scheduled to take place at Sycamore & Oak in Southeast, will set the stage for a relationship where The Pursue Foundation helps this crop of young people complete their undergraduate studies over the next four years.

For Evan, a freshman nursing student at Georgetown University, this arrangement paves the way for greater focus on his academic pursuits.

“The Freshman Sendoff allows me to buy those things so I don’t have to worry about the necessities,” he said. “It allows me to save money.”

Evan cultivated his passion for medicine after losing his mother to heart disease at the age of nine. Since his junior year of high school, he’s obtained his basic life

support certification and completed the D.C. Health and Academic Prep Program, coordinated by The George Washington University School of Medicine and Health Sciences.

“In surgery, I could help in emergency situations,” Evan told The Informer. “We need advocates because a lot of Black people don’t know about medicine. People have bad experiences and never go back or they might not have the money. We can rebuild a sense of trust among the marginalized. We need to save these young Black men and women.”

ANOTHER YEAR OF COMMUNITY SUPPORT FOR INCOMING COLLEGE FRESHMEN

For nearly a decade, The Pursue Foundation, in partnership with youth recreation specialist Marc Williams, has collected dorm and school materials for first-genera-

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tion college students from Ward 7 and Ward 8. While cohorts of years past had nearly 25 students, the newest cohort has 10 first-generation college students.

Patrice Lancaster, executive director of the Pursue Foundation, said this counts as part of an effort to provide more intentional, longterm support.

She recently received technical assistance training from Martha’s Table that she credited with helping her develop data and evaluation tools to measure The Pursue Foundation’s impact.

That training, Lancaster said, inspired adjustments to the Freshman Sendoff application process, including the submission of a short reflection.

“The written application has gotten me a different caliber of students,” Lancaster said. “I have children who are really sure about what they want to pursue. Some of them have been showing up in pre-college activities to prepare them for studies.”

YOUNG PEOPLE CONTINUE TO MAKE IT TO THE FINISH LINE

While District high school graduation rates are on the rise, there’s still some concern about graduates’ ability to obtain a bachelor’s degree.

Data compiled by D.C. Policy Center earlier this year found that 53% of 2022 high school graduates enrolled in college within six GRADUATES Page 27

5 Evan Bowie, a freshman at Georgetown University in Northwest, is studying nursing. He wants to become a surgeon. (Courtesy Photo)

5 Patrice Lancaster, executive director of the Pursue Foundation, received technical assistance training from Martha’s Table that she credited with helping her develop data and evaluation tools to measure her organization’s impact. (Courtesy Photo)

GRADUATES from Page 26

months of their graduation. When it came to college completion however, fewer than one out of five students who graduated from high school within four years obtained a bachelor’s degree.

In that group, white students accounted for the largest subset while the economically disadvantaged and those with disabilities were a smaller portion.

Amonte Boyd, a Ballou Senior High School alumnus, said he’s one of five people in his high school graduating class who completed college. Earlier this summer, he walked across the stage, again, after obtaining a master’s degree in sports business from Temple University in Philadelphia.

With two degrees under his belt, Boyd expressed plans to work as a high school athletic director.

In 2018, Boyd counted among those who received school and dorm supplies during the Freshman Sendoff.

In his four years as a student at Lincoln University, Boyd maintained contact with Williams, who continued to provide support and guidance. Boyd said that he made sure to return the favor when Williams brought nearly a dozen young people for a campus tour during his senior year.

“I was able to show them around and take them to one of my classes,” Boyd said.

The support [from Marc Wil-

liams and The Pursue Foundation] helped me a lot because my mom didn’t go to school and she couldn’t help me through everything. [Getting] the things needed gave me extra motivation.”

A YOUNG LADY LOOKS FORWARD TO A NEW FUTURE

As Destiny Crawford prepares to attend North Carolina Agricultural & Technical State University in the fall, she continues to glean wisdom from her older sister, a rising college junior.

Crawford, 18, recently graduated from KIPP DC College Preparatory with a passion for medicine.

While the move to Greensboro, N.C. changes the scenery a bit, Crawford said she’s looking forward to a new environment. She touted The Pursue Foundation’s care package as a blessing that will make it easier for her to adjust to her new responsibilities.

“I would have to spend less money on bedding, comforters, toiletries, trash bags and [other] school and cleaning supplies,” said Crawford, a Northeast resident. “It feels good but I’m sad to be leaving D.C. I’m leaving my family but this leads to more opportunities. I’m getting out of my comfort zone, meeting new people and learning how to navigate a different environment.”

@SamPKCollins

5 Amonte Boyd, an alumnus of Lincoln University and Temple University, credited The Pursue Foundation and Marc Williams with helping him navigate college. (Courtesy Photo)

As Destiny Crawford, an alumna of KIPP DC College Preparatory, prepares to attend North Carolina Agricultural & Technical State University in the fall, she continues to glean wisdom from her older sister, a rising college junior. (Courtesy Photo)

Guess Which Political Party Wants Its

Nominee to Step Aside: Democrats Divided as Republicans Remain United

Party unity is key during campaign seasons, and as the 2024 General Election inches closer, many Republican leaders are displaying a united front for former President Donald Trump as Democrats are becoming more divided behind President Joe Biden.

Recently, the U.S. Supreme Court ruled in a 6-3 decision that Trump is immune from prosecution for some actions while in the White House. This ruling, which was based on the principle of executive privilege, has significant implications for the criminal case by the federal government’s criminal charges against Trump for, among other cases, plotting to overthrow the 2020 election.

Republicans remain united behind him.

On January 6, 2021, Trump, two weeks before President Joe Biden’s inauguration, inspired and encouraged his supporters to storm the U.S. Capitol, on the day House members were meeting to fulfill their constitutional responsibilities by certifying electoral votes across the United States. This process was crucial for the peaceful transition of power and the preservation of American democracy.

Republicans remain united in their support of Trump.

As his supporters broke windows and doors and beat U.S. Capitol and Washington Metropolitan Police Department officers with their fists and other weapons, including American and Confederate flags, Trump, according to several aides who testified before Congress under oath, sat in a room off from the Oval Office and did nothing.

Republican Senators remain united behind him.

The twice impeached Trump has been found guilty by a jury of sexually abusing columnist E. Jean Carroll in 1996. New York State Attorney General Latisha James won a landmark civil fraud decision against the Trump Organization, which has been ordered to pay $450 million for defrauding the state. Close to 20 women have accused Trump of sexual harassment or sexual assault.

Still, Republican House Members are united in their support of Trump.

But, despite all of the above criminality and treasonous behavior, the Grand Old Party (GOP), will formally nominate Trump as its nominee in less than two weeks in Milwaukee, Wisconsin. The GOP is united behind the 45th president, including many Members of Congress who ran for their lives during the insurrection.

Meanwhile, on the other side of the aisle, the Democratic Party is grappling with a significant internal challenge. Following a disastrous debate on June 27, there is a mounting call for President Biden to step aside due to his underwhelming performance.

This demand for a stronger candidate comes at a critical time, less than 40 days before the national convention in Chicago and the general election in less than 120 days.

So much for loyalty by Democrats.

As Congress returns from the July 4 recess, the top issue on the agenda is not passing legislation to improve the lives of everyday Americans but whether President Biden will remain the Democratic nominee.

With November fast approaching, there's no time for a divided convention or internal strife within the Democratic Party.

No one can deny President Biden performed poorly during the CNN debate against Trump. He often appeared confused and disoriented, frequently spoke incoherently, and needed help completing his sentences.

On the other hand, Trump also spoke incoherently but passionately, as he lied at least 30 times and did not deny political retribution for his political enemies if reelected. He has called jailed January 6 insurrectionists “political prisoners.”

He only commits to accepting the election results next November if he wins. Sound familiar, America?

The choice is stark, and the consequences are significant. The contrast

I’m so looking forward to attending the 12th Annual Washington Informer Annual Heritage Tour! The way you all continue to give back to the community, educate, and bring people together should be applauded by all.

Eric King Washington, D.C.

between the two candidates is stark, and the decision is not to be taken lightly.

Consider 90 uninspiring and alarming minutes on a debate stage versus three-and-a-half years of accomplishments.

One lousy summer night in June versus a persistent liar who incited an insurrection.

Recent polls, including one conducted by the New York Times, show Biden falling behind former president Donald Trump by six points, 43% to his opponent’s 49%, with an increasing number of Democrats fearful that the gap will only widen as the days and weeks go by.

Young voters in particular, say they’re considering abstaining from voting this fall because neither candidate reflects their views. Further, they don’t believe either candidate has demonstrated a commitment to making the caliber of decisions, once elected, that will yield positive results for younger Americans in their ongoing quest to achieve personal and professional goals.

Shout out to Quincy Wilson, the 16-year-old Maryland brother going to the Paris Olympics. I watched him run during the U.S. Olympic trials, and he was phenomenal. Wishing him lots of luck on his journey.

Carole Tate Bowie, Md.

Naysayers within the Democratic party as well as those who remain on the fence, would do well to look at the Trump campaign machine and consider how he’s negotiating the support of his base of voters, independents and currently elected GOP officials, at all levels of government.

Despite his troubles in the courtroom, despite the false narrative that he continues to spin and despite the undisputed and numerous lies on which he stands as he promotes his political agenda and attacks his opponent, Republicans remain staunchly behind him. They appear comfortable with and able and willing to overlook his lies – as long as the GOP regains control of the White House.

Sorry but the last time we looked, that kind of thinking can only be described by an “any means necessary” strategy.

The consequences of this election are significant, and the outcome will shape the future of our nation. It’s important Democrats remain united if they have any plans of Biden defeating Trump on Nov. 5. WI

OPINIONS/EDITORIALS

Guest Columnist

President Biden, Talk to the Voters

he'd asked Rev. William Barber and Rev. Liz Theoharis if he could drop by, they would have been happy to have him.

President Joe Biden missed a great opportunity on June 27. Two days after the disastrous debacle also known as a debate, tens of thousands of people thronged to Washington, D.C., for the Mass Poor People's and Low-Wage Workers Assembly and Moral March on Washington and to the Polls. He wasn't invited to speak at the march, but I bet if

Why? The co-chairs of the Assembly and Moral March are hoping to galvanize voters to participate in democracy and vote on Nov. 5. They say that there are tens of millions of registered voters who don't plan to participate in our democracy! Why? They say nobody talks to them.

I don't know if President Biden could have stood the nearly 100-degree heat. I surely didn't. I covered

Presidential

There are times when leaders from the past can be very prophetic in their words, and we should take heed of their warnings. Ulysses S. Grant is most known as the commanding general who led the Union Army to victory over the Confederates during the Civil War. As a war hero driven by a sense of patriotic duty, he broke ranks with then-President Andrew

the march from my air-conditioned home, watching the livestream from my laptop, making occasional phone calls to people on the ground. But that Low Wage Worker's Assembly is exactly the kind of event President Biden needs to attend. Further, when those assembled marched down Pennsylvania Avenue to present their demands, the president or his designee should have been there to meet them. Even now, a couple of weeks after the event, the president can invite Revs. Barber and Theoharis, and some of the Poor People's

Campaign representatives Harris ought to be there, too, emphasizing how important this constituency is, focusing on the least and the left out.

In both his ABC interview with George Stephanopoulos and his stern letter to "Fellow Democrats" on July 8, President Biden indicated that he doesn't believe the polls and cast doubt on the lemming-like chattering class who have piled on their "analysis" of the June 27 "debate." Who does he believe, then? If he believes the people then he needs to get out more and talk to them,

Immunity and the Second Revolutionary War

Johnson over Reconstruction policies and ran for president. Grant, who became president in 1869, was a progressive Republican in line with Abraham Lincoln. As the 18th president, Grant stabilized the post-war national economy; supported the Fifteenth Amendment, which protects voting rights; vigorously enforced civil and voting rights for Blacks; and prosecuted the Ku Klux Klan.

He was an effective civil rights executive who appointed Black Americans and Jewish Americans to prominent positions in the federal government

Guest Columnist

Earlier this month, the country commemorated the 60th anniversary of the signing of the Civil Rights Act of 1964. In reviewing who and what is being recognized and given credit for the ultimate signing of this groundbreaking legislation, I noticed among the different recognitions being featured, none addressed the role of

the artists during the civil rights movement. There were many artists whose work was created with the use of the social justice lens. The 1960s and 1970s cultural movement was begun by African American artists and arose during a time when Black people were engaged in struggles for liberation and equality. Not only in America, but around the world. African American artists' use of literature, theater and the visual arts told the story of the inhumane treatment inflicted upon a particular class of people during a

while signing the bill creating the Justice Department. He effectively worked with other radical Republicans in protecting Black Americans during Reconstruction. During a speech in Des Moines, Iowa, Grant stated that "if we are to have another contest in the near future of our national existence, I predict that the dividing line will not be Mason & Dixon … but between patriotism and intelligence on the one side and superstition, ambition, and ignorance on the other."

In 1875, the president of the United States accurately predicted the po-

litical climate in 2024. Grant's prophecy has become more evident with the recent Supreme Court ruling giving immunity to the U.S. president, thereby creating a monarchy. The "contest" Grant is referencing has become the 2024 presidential election. We hear so much about a second Civil War in our nation. What we really need is a second Revolutionary War to save what is left of our American democracy.

As America celebrated the 248th anniversary of the Declaration of Independence, our nation has come full circle. During the summer of

especially in battleground states like Michigan, Wisconsin and Pennsylvania, but also in other states. If he talks to the people he may have more information and he may also be able to quiet some of the chatter that seems dangerously close to bullying.

Granted, time is short — just s few weeks until the Democratic National Convention. And, granted, the president has shown that he has

MALVEAUX Page 53

1776, colonists celebrated the birth of America's independence by holding mock funerals for Great Britain's King George III as a symbolic end of the monarch's hostile grip on America. Our nation fought and won a Revolutionary War, which served as an outright resistance and rejection of having a monarch lead the country. As the 6-3 supermajority on the Supreme Court determined that presidents and former presidents have broad immunity from criminal prosecution

dark period in our country.

For example, in 1955, photographer David Jackson spent a great amount of his career documenting unjust and unreasonable treatment of African Americans during the Jim Crow segregation in the South. It was Jackson who chronicled the controversial images of Emmett Till for Jet magazine. The visions of the teen's open casket became synonymous with the brutal lynchings that victimized southern Blacks.

Also in 1955, Brooklyn sketch artists Harvy Dinnerstein and Bur-

ton Silverman traveled to Alabama during the Montgomery bus boycott, spending several days drawing Montgomery's African American citizens walking and carpooling.

They sketched the speeches they witnessed from community leaders and civil rights activists as well as the trial that challenged the segregation of public transportation. Their drawings included visuals of expressive portraits and courtroom drama that marked the bus boycott as a turning point in the struggle for civil rights.

Another photographer, Benedict

J. Fernandez, documented the life of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. and the activists who surrounded him. Fernandez followed King for the last few years of his life taking note of his activities. His photographs highlighted King's allies, rallies, and the realities of life during the movement. These are only a few of the artists whose endless catalogs of creative pieces recorded the movements of the civil rights activists. These artists' contributions were also a catalyst for

David W. Marshall

Aaron Myers

Julianne Malveaux

Guest Columnist

Guest Columnist

The 58th Anniversary of the Freedom of Information Act

pion and the driving force behind the Freedom of Information Act.

More than 50 years ago, Michael Ross Lemov was still a young, intrepid general counsel who had just finished working on the National Commission on Product Safety, the forerunner to the Consumer Product Safety Commission. That was the time, he told me, that he started working for the late California Congressman John Moss, the primary author, the cham-

This marked the beginning of a friendship, mentorship and joint commitment to American democracy and open government. Mind you, Moss had already single-handedly brought the Freedom of Information Act or FOIA into being in 1966.

Lemov joined him later to further expand the groundbreaking law and further fight for a mountain of consumer protections. In 1997 when Moss died, Lemov kept a promise and detailed Moss's story in a book,

'Dream and Labor'

When Congressman John Lewis passed away in July 2020, Rev. James Lawson gave a eulogy memorializing our beloved friend at Ebenezer Baptist Church in Atlanta. As our nation continues to mourn Rev. Lawson's own death last month, his words are resonating deeply again right now. Rev. Lawson was honoring "the conscience of Congress" during another perilous

The smoke pollution from Canadian wildfires last summer killed more than 100 people in Michigan — about two dozen in Detroit alone, according to a Cornell University study.

Other Detroiters, like June Mack, saw their medical conditions worsen dramatically. Mack, a retiree living in Northwest Detroit who has asthma, was confined to her home and still

political moment, and wanted to tell us what he believed our nation needed to do in order to move forward. In his words: "We do not need bipartisan politics if we are going to celebrate the life of John Lewis. We need the Constitution to come alive! We hold these truths to be self-evident, we need the Congress and the presidents to work unfalteringly on behalf of every boy and every girl so that every baby born on these shores will have access to the tree of life!"

Rev. Lawson continued: "Let all the people of the USA determine that we

"People's Warrior: John Moss and the Fight for Freedom of Information and Consumer Rights," thus bringing to light a battle most of us never knew about a law that all of us need to know. In spring of this year, Lemov died. Now, the lives of both men have become intertwined and held up as a bright light to all who seek a path forward to a more truthful and better America.

This year, on the Fourth of July, we celebrated FOIA's 58th anniversary and are reminded of what these two men — Moss and Lemov — meant

for our country.

Lemov said it took Moss 12 years, three presidents and a battle against his fellow members of Congress to bring FOIA into being. President Lyndon Johnson begrudgingly signed FOIA into law at his "Texas White House" on July 4, 1966. It went into effect the following year. In Lemov's book, he quoted an angry Johnson, "I thought Moss was one of our boys, but the Justice Department tells me this goddamn bill will screw the Johnson administration." When Johnson signed the bill without any

public ceremony, he did not invite Moss to the signing.

FOIA gives any person the right to obtain access to any federal agency records. Enforceable in court, FOIA requires, upon request, the full or partial disclosure of previously unreleased or uncirculated information and documents controlled by the U.S. government. In short, FOIA allows the American public to know the truth. And clearly, the numbers tell us the public wants to know.

will not be quiet as long as any child dies in the first year of life in the United States. We will not be quiet as long as the largest poverty group in our nation are women and children. We will not be quiet as long as our nation continues to be the most violent culture in the history of humankind. We will not be quiet as long as our economy is shaped not by freedom but by plantation capitalism that continues to cause domination and control rather than access and liberty and equality for all!

"The forces of spiritual wickedness are strong in our land because of our

history. We have not created them. John Lewis did not create them. We inherited them. But it's our task to see those spiritual forces. I have named them racism, sexism, violence, plantation capitalism. Those poisons still dominate far too many of us, in many different ways. … Do not let our own hearts drink any of that poison. Instead, drink the truth of the life force.

If we would honor and celebrate John Lewis' life, let us then recommit our souls, our minds, our hearts, our bodies, our strength to the continuing journey to dismantle the wrong in our

midst, and to allow a space for the new Earth and new heaven to emerge."

Rev. Lawson then recited Langston Hughes' poem "I Dream a World," adding a few words as he went along like woman, boy, girl, and humankind:

I dream a world where man

No other man will scorn,

Where love will bless the earth

And peace its paths adorn

I dream a world where all

Will know sweet freedom's way,

could not escape the smoke's impact. She suffered vertigo and double vision that required her to wear an eyepatch and give up driving for months. And it left her worrying about the effectiveness and cost of her asthma inhaler. Mack told Planet Detroit, "I'm concerned that if the air quality is still bad … will [it] work? Or do I have to go to something else more expensive?"

Wildfire smoke and its impacts have long been an issue for many in the western United States. But the fires there are getting worse there too.

They are getting worse everywhere. It is climate change in action.

According to the California Department of Forestry and Fire Protection, as of July 6, 150,082 acres had burned so far this year in wildland fires in the state. That is nearly four-and-a-half times the five-year average (34,257 acres) for the same time interval.

"The world is on fire" is no longer a metaphor. In the United States, that means almost 16,000 deaths per year from wildfire smoke. That number could nearly double by mid-century, according to an April analysis by the

National Bureau of Economic Research. Another study this year out of Yale found that we could already be near 30,000 deaths per year, when factoring in all the additional harm to heart, lung, kidney and mental health in the aftermath of smoke exposure. The destruction does not end with the fires and smoke. There are the floods that follow the fires. And all the injuries and illness also carry both extreme human and financial costs.

A study published last month found that in California, between 2008 and 2018, there were 52,480 premature

deaths associated with exposure to the fine particulate matter in wildfire smoke. And the health care costs from that exposure exceeded $432 billion. Climate change creates the conditions for these fires and ignites them. But, part of a vicious cycle, the fires themselves also help fuel climate change.

Our North American forests have an especially big role in cleansing our air. They are among the forests sometimes referred to as "the Earth's

NELSON Page 54

Marian Wright Edelman

Ben Jealous

Guest Columnist

Floyd Nelson

Guest Columnist

LIFESTYLE

WASHINGTON INFORMER WEEKEND CHECKLIST

WASHINGTON INFORMER'S

Things To Do, DMV!

By Jada Ingleton WI Contributing Fellow

Celebrate the legacy of music with “I Got Life: The Music of Nina Simone” and Janet Jackson’s Together Again Tour.

Thespian-enthusiasts can enjoy a combination of culture and theater, as the DMV welcomes the creative productions of “The Wizard of Oz” on Saturday, and “The Migration: Reflections on Jacob Lawrence” Sunday.

The Wine and Culture Fest 2024 brings residents together in

an immersive experience of the wine industry, while The Bitcoin Classic: DMV X HOWARD U invites the community to an innovative tournament that is sure to entertain.

Learn how to make a difference in the Black community with AfriThrive’s It Takes a Village: African Diaspora Youth Conference & Gala, or honor 30 years of union and arts with Kentlands Mansion Mad Hatter Extravaganza. Keep your outlook vibrant with the Washington Informer Calendar, and remember, there’s al-

ways something happening in the DMV to keep your spirit – and social life – lit.

THURSDAY, JULY 11

I Got Life: The Music of Nina Simone 7 p.m. | $96.00+

FEATURED EVENT

July 17 • 2:00-3:00 PM

Smoothies are a simple way to fit in all of your food groups! Also, they are a quick and easy way to make a healthy meal or snack! Join us to learn more about fresh ingredients you can add to any smoothie. You’ll have the opportunity to sample a delicious smoothie!

Blues Alley Club, 1073 Wisconsin Ave NW, Washington, D.C., 20007

“I Got Life: The Music of Nina Simone” pairs two legends of jazz and soul music to celebrate an iconic artist. More than a concert, “I Got Life” is an event that explores the powerful music and empowering messages of Nina Simone. The presentation moves through four aspects of Simone's songbook: Quest, Passion, Fury, and Hope.

Vocalist Carol Riddick and bassist Gerald Veasley lead an ensemble that re-imagines Simone's work with inventive energy.

Wine and Culture Fest 2024 Dependent on event | $450.00+ National Harbor, Sunset Room, 137 National Plaza #200, Oxon Hill, MD 20745

Presented by The Hue Society, Wine + Culture Fest is dedicated to consumer education, brand awareness, industry advancement, and cultural experiences through the Black lens. Encompassed in the four-day event are interactive sessions from industry mavens, tastings of fan favorites and rare selections, and premiere social events that unite the entire industry.

In advocacy for economic inclusion and recognition, the Wine Culture Festival will host two days at the Sunset Room in the National Harbor right outside of Washington, D.C., and include more local events and specialties throughout the city that offers community members a safe space

to learn and experience.

Ticket prices depend on package selection. General admission weekend pass is $450.00. Event locations vary.

FRIDAY, JULY 12

The Bitcoin Classic: DMV X HOWARD U 2 p.m. | $20.00+ Burr Gymnasium, 2400 6th St NW, Washington, D.C., 20001 Hosted at Burr Gymnasium at Howard University, the Bitcoin Classic is coming to the DMV. Powered by Block Inc and Cash App, eight local and national adult teams will compete for $30K of Bitcoin.

The two-day tournament begins Friday, July 12 at 2 p.m. and ends Saturday, July 13 at 8:30 p.m., and will feature giveaways, live performances, youth activities, a threepoint contest, and more.

Janet Jackson: Together Again 8 p.m. | $29.95+

Capital One Arena, 601 F St NW, Washington, D.C., 20004

By popular demand, Janet Jackson’s Together Again Tour is returning to North America for the summer, with a special guest: actor-musician Nelly. In three acts and an encore, the five-time Grammy winner and multi million record-seller will perform hits from her discography, including “Nasty,” “Got ‘Til It’s Gone,” “Together Again,” and more.

TO DO Page 33

5Step Afrika!’s “The Migration: Reflections on Jacob Lawrence.” (Courtesy photo/William Perrigen)

SATURDAY, JULY 13

It Takes a Village: African Diaspora Youth Conference and Gala

9 a.m. | $225.00

Hilton Washington DC/Rockville Executive Meeting Center, 1750 Rockville Pike, Rockville, MD 20852

Join AfriThrive for the inaugural national It Takes a Village: African Diaspora Youth Conference and Gala.

This two-day, in-person event features inspiring speakers, expert panels, thought-provoking workshops, and a glamorous gala to cap off the experience. Organizers invite guests to come be a part of the village and connect with Africa Diaspora professionals and community members who are passionate about making a difference in the community.

All age groups are welcome.

The conference will take place from 9 a.m.- 5 p.m. on July 12-13. The gala is July 13, from 6 p.m. -11 p.m. (featuring music, dances, special guest performances, a live DJ, awards and prizes).

Guests have the option of choosing to attend either conferences and/or the Gala. General admission to the full conference and gala is $225.00.

“The Wizard of Oz” 11:30 a.m. | $15.00 The Puppet Co. Playhouse, 7300 Macarthur Blvd, Glen Echo, MD 20812

Using several styles of puppetry, The Puppet Co. Playhouse tells the great American fairy tale written by L. Frank Baum. This award-winning musical production uses the original Denslow design from the books.

The story takes place at the 1900s Kansas State Fair, with performers in costumes, guiding the audience down the yellow brick road.

SUNDAY, JULY 14

Kentlands Mansion Mad Hatter Extravaganza

4 p.m. - 7:30 p.m. | Free Kentlands Mansion, 320 Kent Square Rd, Gaithersburg, MD 20878

Join the Kentlands Mansion and the City to celebrate 30 years together with “Hats Off to 30 Years: A Kentlands Mansion Mad Hatter Extravaganza.”

Enjoy live ‘90s music, Alice in Wonderland characters, crafts, food trucks, wine tasting, in this free, sensory-friendly event. Kentlands Mansion will also host fairy hair, permanent jewelry, live music, children's entertainment, beer and wine sales, food trucks, and so much more.

The Migration: Reflections on Jacob Lawrence 7:30 p.m. | TBD Arena Stage, 1101 6th St SW, Washington, D.C., 20024

Using its hallmark style of percussive dance-theater, Step Afrika!’s “The Migration: Reflections on Jacob Lawrence” tells the story of one of the largest movements of people in United States history, when millions of African American migrants moved from the rural South to the industrial North in the 1900s to escape Jim Crow, racial oppression, and lynchings.

Inspired by Jacob Lawrence’s iconic 60-panel “The Migration Series” (1940-41), this signature work from the award-winning dance company uses the images, color palette, and motifs in the painting series to tell this astonishing story through pulsating rhythms and visually stunning movement.

Tickets are no longer available for purchase online. Rush Tickets go on sale on the day of each performance in-person at the Arena Stage sales office, are limited to two per person, and availability cannot be confirmed via the phone. Premium rush seats for “The Migration” may also be made available for $45, subject to availability.

Please contact the sales office at 202-488-3300 to get up-to-theminute ticket availability information.

DISB COFFEE

& CAPITAL

For small business owners, access the capital you need at this DISB event

LIFESTYLE

WHAT:

A workshop to help small business owners develop funding strategies and access capital and technical resources.

JPMorgan Chase will discuss its small business access to capital programs.

WHEN: July 17, 2024 10 AM to 11 AM

WHERE: Virtual

WHO SHOULD ATTEND:

• Entrepreneurs

• Small businesses

• Start-ups

• Nonprofits

• Contractors

RSVP: bit.ly/DISBCoffeeandCapital

QUESTIONS?

Aaron Fenwick aaron.fenwick@dc.gov

Tamika Wood tamika.wood@dc.gov

LIFESTYLE

THE DISTRICT OF COLUMBIA HOUSING AUTHORITY

REQUEST FOR PROPOSALS (RFP) SOLICITATION NO.: 0037-2024

VIDEO SURVEILLANCE SERVICES

The District of Columbia Housing Authority (DCHA) requires professional Video Surveillance Services at various DCHA properties.

SOLICITATION DOCUMENTS will be available beginning Monday, July 1, 2024 on DCHA’s website at www.dchousing.org under “Business” and “Solicitations”.

SEALED PROPOSAL RESPONSES ARE DUE ON OR BEFORE Tuesday, July 16, 2024 at 11:00 AM.

Email Lolita Washington, Contract Specialist at lwashing@dchousing.org with copy to business@dchousing.org for additional information.

THE

DISTRICT OF COLUMBIA HOUSING AUTHORITY

REQUEST FOR PROPOSAL (RFP) SOLICITATION NO.: 41-2024

JANITORIAL SERVICES FOR SELECT DCHA BUILDINGS

The District of Columbia Housing Authority (DCHA) requires a qualified contractor to furnish the necessary labor, materials, supplies, equipment and supervision to provide janitorial services for (32) DCHA Service Locations and Properties.

SOLICITATION DOCUMENTS will be available beginning Monday, July 1, 2024, on DCHA’s website at www.dchousing.org under “Business” and “Solicitations”.

SEALED BID RESPONSES ARE DUE ON OR BEFORE Monday, July 22, 2024, at 11:00 AM.

Email LaShawn Mizzell-McLeod, Contract Specialist at LMMCLEOD@dchousing.org with copy to business@dchousing.org for additional information.

Learning about African American Sculptor Augusta Savage is Worth the Search

By Brenda C. Siler WI Contributing Writer

Augusta Savage (1892–1962), as a respected sculptor and arts educator, made a significant impact by mentoring other emerging creatives. Notable individuals who benefited from her free training include Romare Bearden, Gwendolyn Knight, Jacob Lawrence, Selma Burke, Norman Lewis, and Kenneth B. Clark.

Savage’s most renowned sculpture, “Lift Every Voice and Sing,” was created for the 1939 World’s Fair in Flushing, New York. It was a 16-foot masterpiece depicting 12 Black children in a stance resembling a harp. The piece was inspired by the poem of Savage’s close Harlem Renaissance friend James Weldon Johnson. His brother Rosamund Johnson then set the poem to music, becoming one of the most meaningful anthems for African Americans.

At a recent screening of the PBS documentary “Searching for Augusta Savage,” Jeffreen M. Hayes, curator of the 2019 “Augusta Savage Renaissance Woman” exhibition, spoke about the sculptor’s World Fair work.

“Augusta Savage was the only African-American commission to

create an exhibit for the 1939,” said Hayes, an art historian with a PhD and executive director of Threewalls, a Chicago-based arts collaborative. “It was the most popular piece of art in the 1939 World's Fair. After this highly publicized display at the World's Fair, it was just dismantled and discarded.”

“Searching for Augusta Savage” is a 22-minute film co-executive produced, written, and directed by Charlotte Mangin and Sandra Rattley through their company Audacious Women, LLC, in association with American Masters Pictures and Black Public Media.

This production is the lead film for American Masters Shorts, a new digital series from PBS’ flagship biography series. Viewers will see an overview of Savage's contribution to American art and her advocacy for works by African American artists to be included in the mainstream.

Hayes narrates the film, and Screen Actors Guild, Critics Choice, and NAACP Image Award-winner Lorraine Toussaint is featured as the voice of Augusta Savage.

The writing from Mangin and Rattley is clear, with insightful content about Savage, her success in

5From the PBS/American Masters Shorts film, “Searching for Augusta Savage,” Augusta Savage's Lift Every Voice and Sing monument exhibited at the 1939 New York World's Fair. (Courtesy Photo/Manuscripts and Archives Division, The New York Public Library.)

Celebrating James Baldwin: An Exhibition of Unity and Community

By Andrew S. Jacobson WI Contributing Writer

In a stirring homage to the legendary James Baldwin, the National Portrait Gallery unveils an exhibition that not only honors the centenary of Baldwin’s birth but also delves into the profound impact of his life and work.

Curated by Rhea Combs and influenced by Hilton Als’ earlier work, the exhibition in the One Life gallery captures Baldwin’s essence through a lens of unity and built community.

The exhibition, aptly timed to commemorate what would have been Baldwin’s 100th birthday, serves as a reckoning, recognizing the influential figures who shaped Baldwin’s journey and those whose lives he touched.

“Baldwin has played a pivotal role in many lives, and this exhibition is our way to honor and acknowledge that,” Combs remarked.

The exhibition features an eclectic mix of visual arts, blending figuration and abstraction to expand traditional understandings of portraiture. Works by artists such as Glenn Ligon, Faith Ringgold, and Jack Whitten are showcased, each selected for their unique connection to Baldwin’s legacy.

Ligon’s pieces, inspired directly by Baldwin’s words, and Whitten’s reflections on pivotal moments like the assassination of Martin Luther King Jr., offer profound insights into Baldwin’s world.

Curator Rhea Combs elaborated on the diverse representations of Baldwin’s influence.

“We wanted to represent various ways to understand and see Baldwin’s influence. This includes works that reflect his commitment to civil rights and social justice, making it imper-

At the heart of the presentation is the concept of chosen family—a theme that Baldwin himself embodied. Combs, along with Als, sought to explore the impact of Baldwin’s self-selected community on his identity and choices. This intimate circle, composed of fellow artists, activists, and friends, was instrumental in Baldwin’s life, providing support and inspiration.

ative to include both figurative and abstract representations.”

An often overlooked but significant aspect of Baldwin’s life was the

influence of women. The exhibition includes figures such as Nina Simone, Lorraine Hansberry, and Toni Morri-

opening museums, and her fundraising capabilities. Viewers can feel the sculptor’s focused intent.

“The way she was navigating her career, I began to really think about her as a “race woman,” narrator Hayes said. “Putting the Black body and the Black experience at the center, creating a deeper understanding of race in daily life.”

Savage experienced various forms of rejection. When her widely accepted sculpture “Lift Every Voice and Sing” was destroyed, she did what many Black women have done: picked herself up and continued moving forward. She powered through. She never let it stop, it just made her stronger.

“She was a way maker. She was an artist and artist advocate, an artist educator, and an activist,” Hayes explained in the film.

Today, it is thought that 70 of Savage's approximately 160 works of art are lost or missing. With the production of this film, Hayes, Mangin, and Rattley will continue their work to bring more of Augusta Savage to the rest of us.

5James Baldwin, Istanbul, c. 1965. A reflective moment captured by Sedat Pakay in a gelatin silver print, showing Baldwin’s silhouette seated by a large window, sipping a drink and smoking, with a serene landscape view in the background.(Courtesy Photo/Sedat Pakay)

BALDWINPage 37

Wolf Trap’s Updated Look Welcomes TLC, EnVogue, and Jody Watley

By Brenda C. Siler WI Contributing Writer

Wolf Trap National Park for the Performing Arts in Vienna, Virginia, has been around for over 50 years and continues to be one of the premiere venues for outdoor entertainment.

During the pandemic, Wolf Trap had to cancel its season for the first time. A venue in partnership with the National Park Service, the board of the Wolf Trap Foundation used that time to accelerate some of their new ideas.

“We started a multi-year period of renewal. The first thing we did was to build a series of outdoor pavilions to enhance the park's beauty,” said Arvind Manocha, president and CEO of the Wolf Trap Foundation.

“In the first round of improvements, we made an effort to dramatically enhance the experience for the artists who come here”

Visitors will see upgrades to the

picnic and concession area at Wolf Trap. The concession counters have new menu items that will appeal to any palate.

Guests can have fun hanging out before performances when they bring their own baskets of goodies with food and beverages, and there are tables and benches are on the backside of the concession area. Further, the well-kept grounds are also perfect for spreading out a blanket or bringing your own seating.

THE BEST SUMMER NIGHT ENTERTAINMENT

Wolf Trap recently featured three top music acts from the 1990s through the early 2000s.

It was a “ladies night” featuring TLC, EnVogue, and Jody Watley. Chilling on the lawn or staying in your seat was not an option for this concert.

Watley sang hits like “Looking for a New Love” and “Real Love,” and she looked and sounded great. It was a surprise when she said at the end of her set that she had not felt well, but it was not clear to the crowd. The singer, who also has a radio show on Sirius XM, was a trooper performing through her health challenges, and the audience showed their appreciation.

High-powered and pitch-perfect is the way to describe En Vogue’s performance. The group consists of original members Cindy Herron-Braggs and Terry Ellis, as well as Rhona Bennett.

It felt like En Vogue sang their entire catalog, with the biggest

crowd-pleasers being “Hold On,” their first hit release, and “Free Your Mind,” which included graphics and production quality that showed the audience that the song is still relevant today.

The group sang an extended medley of songs by other artists from the 1960’s to today. It was one of the best house party mixes, and the crowd was up the entire time.

Headliners TLC rounded out the evening with Tionne "T-Boz" Watkins and Rozonda "Chilli" Thomas. The late Lisa "Left Eye" Lopes was there in sound and spirit as her vocal tracks were included for some of the group’s hits, such as “Ain’t Too Proud to Beg.”

With four male dancers, a DJ, the band members and the group’s exciting performance, TLC kept the dance party atmosphere going.

THE ENTERTAINMENT CONTINUES

Wolf Trap’s summer season continues with “Children’s Theater-inthe-Woods” events and concerts such as the National Symphony Orchestra performing “Star Wars: A New Hope Concert” and “Ghostbusters in Concert.” Other celebrated artists are also scheduled to perform live at Wolf Trap this summer, including: Daryl Hall and Elvis Costello, Black Pumas, Jazz at Lincoln Center Orchestra with Wynton Marsalis and the opening act, jazz singer Cécile McLorin Salvant.

For ticket information, visit the Wolf Trap website at wolftrap.org. WI @bcscomm

5Wolf Trap National Park for the Performing Arts opened their summer season by unveiling a redesign of its concession area where patrons can purchase food and beverages or bring their own to enjoy in the park before shows. (Courtesy Photo/Wolf Trap )

5En Vogue performed at Wolf Trap. (Courtesy Photo)

from Page 35

son, highlighting their critical roles in Baldwin’s life and legacy.

“People might be surprised by the inclusion of some women who were not publicly associated with Baldwin but were influenced by his work,” Combs noted, pointing to Barbara Jordan as a prime example.

The exhibition also underscores Baldwin’s lasting legacy, particularly among queer artists like Essex Hemphill and Marlon Riggs. By including contemporary queer artists, the curators emphasize the reverberation of Baldwin’s life and work through successive generations.

A unique feature of the exhibition is the integration of archival materials alongside fine art. Photographs and artifacts from Baldwin’s circle, such as Bayard Rustin, are interspersed with artworks, elevating historical objects to the status of art. This approach provides a richer, more comprehensive narrative of Baldwin’s life and influence.

Reflecting on Baldwin’s profound impact, Auttrianna Ward, founder and creative director of Auttrianna Projects, stated: “His words encapsulate the Black American experience in the imperial core. Just angry enough at the absurdity of it all while also honoring our deepest truths as Americans

- Black and white and all the above.”

The thematic depth of Baldwin’s work is captured by author Emmanuel Anifowoshe.

“It is my opinion that all great writers have a great theme that drives their work: a theme so expansive that they can write varied novels to explore its multifacetedness. James Baldwin's was empathy.”

The exhibition highlights Baldwin’s direct approach to addressing issues faced by Black men in America.

Shaun Marble, a Harlemite and owner of Marble Title & Escrow, emphasized: “He did not bite his tongue for anyone and was direct about the issues Black men face in this country. He many times put white people in their place and made great logical points about things.

The Baldwin exhibition is not just a celebration of an individual but a testament to the power of community and the interconnectedness of human experience. As visitors explore the gallery, they are invited to reflect on the enduring impact of Baldwin’s words and the communities that sustained him.

“This exhibition is about recognizing the chosen family that bolstered Baldwin and understanding the collective strength that comes from such communities,” said Combs.

Click. Save. Submit!

It’s not too late to go to college this fall! The DC Tuition Assistance Grant (DCTAG) will provide up to $10,000 a year to help cover tuition at participating colleges and universities.

To be eligible, you must be a DC resident with a high school diploma or GED, and meet a few other requirements.

Click on dconeapp.dc.gov, upload a few documents, then submit! Apply by September 6, 2024

5“James Baldwin and crowd, Taksim Square, Istanbul,” 1965. A candid photograph by Sedat Pakay capturing Baldwin amidst a crowd of curious onlookers. This chromogenic print showcases the author’s engaging presence and the cultural exchange of the moment. (Courtesy Photo/Sedat Pakay)

BALDWIN

Special exhibition on view through January 5, 2025

Hamza Hadani Opens Talea Restaurant in Cathedral Heights

By Andrew S. Jacobson WI Contributing Writer

In the District’s culinary landscape Hamza Hadani, a Moroccan restaurateur, has introduced a unique dining experience with his newest concept, Talea in Northwest, D.C.’s Cathedral Heights neighborhood. This new venture merges traditional Italian cuisine with a northern African spirit, bringing a fresh and exciting option to the city’s dining scene.

“We noticed a lack of Italian cuisine in this area, so we decided to expand,” says Hamza, who has been involved in Italian cuisine for over 12 years. “Our chef is Italian, and we prefer it. We’ve always wanted to expand Italian cuisine.”

Talea and its sister restaurant Flavio are both African-owned Italian restaurants in the city. Despite their Moroccan heritage, Hadani and his team have chosen to specialize in Italian cuisine without infusing it with Moroccan or African flavors.

The choice of location for Talea was strategic. Hadani seized the opportunity to set up in a spot he had long admired, formerly occupied by Café Deluxe, a beloved establishment in the area for over 25 years.

“When we heard Café Deluxe closed down, we had to jump in. It’s a great location with Barcelona right there. We’re also opening a speakeasy in the back of this place later in September,” Hadani explained.

Hadani is particularly excited about several standout dishes that have quickly become favorites among patrons. “The Lobster Diablo, Mushroom Ravioli, and whole fish are definitely our top sellers,” he noted.

Talea aims to offer more than just food; it promises a unique ambiance and vibe, different from what is typically seen in the area. With plans for entertainment on Saturdays, including DJs and a distinctive Italian décor, Talea seeks to provide a memorable dining experience.

“Our ambiance is different, especially in this location. We’ll have entertainment on Saturdays, and the design inside is very Italian. It’s all about the atmosphere and our menu, of course,” Hadani shared.

Julia Ginger Davies took to social media to share her excitement about the new restaurant.

"Soo excited! My first job was at Cafe Deluxe and I've been waiting to see what was opening for soo long," Davis wrote.

Sammy Cantone, another Instagram user, commented: "This is what D.C. has been missing!" WI

5Talea’s dining room, adorned with elegant decor, offers a warm, welcoming atmosphere, ideal for an intimate and memorable dining experience. (Courtesy Photo/ Jordan Barnes)

New Matthew Whitaker CD Honors Master Organists

By Brenda C. Siler WI Contributing Writer

With his latest album, Matthew Whitaker is in full command of how he wants to present his talents. A multi-keyboard musician, “On Their Shoulders: An Organ Tribute” is a compilation of compositions by Whitaker and other superior masters of the Hammond organ.

Whitaker’s study and exceptional musicianship on the Hammond organ led to this latest album featuring some of his organ heroes. With the album, he has put his spin on songs by organists Joey DeFrancesco, Elbernita “Twinkie” Clark Terrell, Charles Earland, and Dr. Lonnie Smith, a National Endowment for the Arts Jazz Master.

“Talking to my parents and manager, I started naming the organists I wanted to feature,” said Whitaker, who plays both the Hammond B-3 and Yamaha Grand organs. “I started naming Jimmy Smith, Lonnie Smith, and Charles Earland. Also, I saw the tribute Howard University did for

Richard Smallwood and Twinkie Clark.”

Selections throughout “On Their Shoulders” display the organ's energetic role in American music.

Opening with “The Organ Grinder’s Swing,” Whitaker is influenced by Jimmy Smith’s version of this 1936 composition by Will Hudson, Mitchell Parish, and Irving Mills. Whitaker has a vocal part by using a bass bubble similar to Smith’s addition to his version.

“Happy Cause I’m Going Home” begins like a wake-up alarm. Whitaker’s opening arrangement is huge. The brass section and the flute deliver a few special solos.

Whitaker plays the organ and piano on Clark’s “Expect Your Miracle.” Added stomps, claps, and praise, courtesy of New Hope Baptist Church in Hackensack, New Jersey, prepare listeners to receive a blessing. The track also has a righteous wrap-up.

Two original compositions by Whitaker are included in “On Their Shoulders.” “Yessaah” is a

quick, breezy, feel-good song that will have you moving in your seat. “Don’t Count Me Out opens with a sound that feels like being in a long tunnel. Then the beat moves into a New Orleans-type vibe.

“On Their Shoulders: An Organ Tribute” is Whitaker’s first project on his own label, MOCAT Records. The label name is a trib-

ute to his grandparents, Moses and Catherine Whitaker. Most recently, Whitaker performed at the Kennedy Center during the “Ellington 1250” series of concerts. He performed with his keyboard buddies, Justin Kauflin and José André Montaño.

This album is a great addition to anyone’s music collection.

With a growing list of accomplishments as a composer, bandleader and music director for vocalists Gregory Porter, Carmen Lundy, and others, Whitaker will not be held back.

Visit matthewwhitaker.net to purchase the album.

WI @bcscomm

5Matthew Whitaker, keyboardist, composer, and music director, releases “On Their Shoulders: An Organ Tribute,” his fourth album, which celebrates master organists. (Courtesy photo/Hollis King)

TRAGEDY

from Page 1

other two vehicles involved suffered serious injuries.

Politicians, institutions, coaches, teammates, and members of the community have been working to celebrate the athletes lives.

“These young men impacted and touched so many lives while they worked to live their dreams. The smiles, the laughs, the conversations, and the bonds span further than we could ever imagine,”wrote the Bowie Boys and Girls Club on Instagram. “To anyone that knew these young men, we are praying for you in this moment.”

Jackson, 24, played for the University of Alabama and the University of Oregon. He was a fourth round draft pick for the Minnesota Vikings earlier this year and was in competition to be a starter in his rookie NFL season.

“We are devastated by the news of Khyree Jackson’s death following an overnight car accident,” the Minnesota Vikings said in a statement shortly after the accident.

“Our thoughts are with Khyree’s family, friends, teammates and coaches, as well as all the victims of this tragic accident.”

Lytton, 24, was an Under Armour All-American and played a pivotal role in leading Wise to 42 consecutive wins and three straight 4A state championships. A top 50 recruit in 2018, Lytton was a senior defensive back for the Bowie State University Bulldogs and also played for both Penn State and Florida State. He was the 2017 Maryland Gatorade Player of the Year.

"A.J. will be truly missed," said Kyle Jackson, Bowie State's head football coach. "He was a bright spot for the Bowie State University Football program. He was a great football player but an even better young man."

Largo native Hazel, 23, played defensive back at the University of Maryland and was using his final year of eligibility to play for the University of North Carolina (UNC) at Charlotte.

“All of Isaiah’s hopes and dreams were still before him, and I pray that his family is granted strength now more than ever,” said Charlotte Coach Biff Poggi, a former coach in Maryland.

Prince George’s County Councilmember Wala Blegay (D- District 6) encouraged people to con-

DISASTERS

from Page 1

The president mentioned that last year over $90 billion was spent on emergency response efforts for weather related damages across the nation. However, Biden also announced several new initiatives geared towards preventing future occurrences and protecting Americans.

“Extreme weather events drive home a point that I’ve been saying for so long. Ignoring climate change is deadly and dangerous and irresponsible,” Biden emphasized. “These climate-fueled extreme weather events don’t just affect people’s lives, they also cost money, they hurt the economy, and they have a significant negative psychological effect on people.”

public-private partnership, with the outdoor advertising company Clear Channel Outdoor which limits the District to 788 shelters.

tinue the young men’s legacy as the community mourns the major losses.

“In moments like these, we lean on the memories of their achievements and the impact they had on our lives. Their presence enriched our community, and their absence will forever be cherished by all who knew them. Let us come together in solidarity, offering comfort and support to one another as we honor their lives and legacy,” said Blegay.

The District 6 council member, who recently hosted a townhall on traffic safety for Route 301 alongside several other legislators and state officials, also stressed the importance of improving road safety.

“Our office will continue working with the state highway administration and law enforcement to ensure safer roads for everyone. We must invest in our roadways and collectively strive to prevent such tragedies while holding violators of traffic laws accountable.

REMEMBERING JACKSON,

HAZEL AND LYTTON: ‘THESE GUYS WERE GOOD DUDES’

Quentin Jordan, who played football at Wise’s rival Frederick Douglass High School, was a mentor and big brother figure for all three of the victims.

“It’s a tragedy to hear [of their passing]. These guys were good dudes,” Jordan told The Informer,

adding that he had helped them choose universities and worked to advise them throughout college.

“Football is hard: it’s not just the physical challenges. You’re far from home, juggling your personal life, and still excelling in both academics and athletics,” Jordan explained. “The experiences away from home were hard but made them all better as people and as men. I was also looking forward to making sure they could make the transition out of football, to keep them grounded and keep them motivated in life generally.”

Jordan first learned of Hazel through his trainer, Coach Melvin Coleman, who used to coach at Bowie State. Once learning of Jordan’s experiences at the University of North Carolina at Charlotte, Hazel followed in his footsteps, after transferring from the University of Maryland, and had his breakout year as a defensive back.

Having helped and advised Jackson early in his college career, Jordan was ecstatic to see the young man’s success leading to his NFL draft.

“After working with Coach Coleman, Khyree was about to graduate from high school and asked me about Kansas junior college Fort Scott, where I went,” said Jordan. “We were rivals but I was looking out for a fellow DMV kid, you want to see others around the area do well. Me and Khyree stayed in touch no matter how he was playing, how he was feeling, or where he was in the country. It

The District is considered an urban heat island due to the form of infrastructure, lack of trees, and excessive car exhaust, in addition to heat-absorbent materials such as asphalt and concrete which are capable of absorbing as much as 95% of the sun's energy. Thousands of D.C. residents were warned about the adverse effects of rising temperatures expected to impact people throughout the hottest summer.

Alongside Biden, the Department of Labor is finalizing the first-ever federal safety standard for excessive heat in the workplace regulating healthy conditions for workers. FEMA will now factor in the effects of future flooding for any federally funded construction project and $1 million in grants for 650 projects that emphasize nature based solutions for natural disasters.

At the conclusion of the convening, Bowser said $724,000 of new funds would go towards building shaded bus stops in areas of high heat exposure “right here in D.C.”

Currently, the District Department of Transportation (DDOT) manages bus shelters through a 20-year franchise agreement, similar to a

was so great to see him accomplish his goals.”

He recalled some of the advice he offered Jackson years ago.

“I told him it would be a great experience if he focused, and the things to expect being away from home. I kept up with Khyree at Alabama, and then at Oregon. Sometimes at Alabama, he would get down because he didn’t play enough. I told him to keep his head high through the struggles.”

Jordan later met Lytton after graduating college, through mutual friends. He said Lytton was

“Under the current franchise agreement, riders in wealthier, cooler (temperature-wise), less transit-dependent neighborhoods are far more likely to have a bus shelter nearby than those in less wealthy, transit-dependent neighborhoods that experience the worst of the urban heat island effect,” local Advisory Neighborhood Commissioner Santiago Lakatos wrote in an article for Greater Greater Washington. “Someone who rides the N4 bus on Massachusetts Avenue NW in Tenleytown will likely have a bus shelter to wait in, whereas someone who rides the B2 bus on Bladensburg Road NE in Carver-Langston is far less likely to be sheltered from the elements. That is despite the B2 having six times more riders than the N4 and ranking as the fourth highest-ridership bus route in DC.

He went on to highlight the threat this poses to seniors, the disabled and other vulnerable populations in the District. Lakatos suggested that by adding green roofs and other new provisions, the District could add to the expansive ad-revenue generated from the 711 bus shelters which rake in approximately $8.2 million per year.

NEW DEVELOPMENTS WILL TAKE TIME TO INTRODUCE

In the meantime, since the start of June, Bowser has been adamant about activating several heat emergencies and advisories in response to growing concerns. She’s urged residents to visit cooling centers as needed and stay hydrated to avert heat related sickness.

Number News

= From that ride, head north to Tia’s Tacos. This mystery letter is the last letter of the ride’s name located just east of Tia’s.

= =

= = =

Head to the southwest corner of the park. The mystery letter is the one that’s rst in both words of this ride’s name.

From there, head east to Timber Games. This mystery letter is the third letter of the attraction north of Timber Games.

Now, head west. The mystery letter is the fth letter in that spinning ride’s name.

Head north to Pizza Plaza. Then, head northeast to have a refreshing drink. The mystery letter is the rst letter of this stand’s name.

Go northwest and take the Sky Tram to the northeast corner of the park. Get a scoop at the spot just south of the tram station. The next mystery letter is the rst letter of the second word in this stand’s name.

Cut out a number from the newspaper that comes before and after each number on these balloons:

Standards Link: Math: Number sense.

It was so big that …

Standards Link: Write descriptively using main idea and supporting details. Exercise your powers of exaggeration! Write a sentence starting with “It was so big that …” or “It was so small tha or whatever exaggeration you like!

Cut out five numbers from today’s newspaper. Rewrite each number in a different way. If the number is all digits, rewrite in word format. If the number is written as a word, write using digits.

Main Entrance Gate

Timber Games

MegaMaze

Snack Shack

Haunted House

Ice Cream Corner

Souvenirs

review wi book

"Treating Violence: An Emergency Room Doctor Takes On a Deadly American Epidemic"

By Rob Gore, MD

c.2024, Beacon Press

$27.95 / 200 pages

Terri Schlichenmeyer WI Contributing Writer

Well, thank you so much to your co-worker.

That's where you got this ick, this scratchy-throat, achy-body, upset-stomach, can't-sleep virus. He sneezed and that's all it took. Now you've got what he had and you're trying not to spread it anymore. As you know, and as in the new book "Treating Violence" by Rob Gore, MD, an epidemic affects everybody.

Once upon a time, Rob Gore had a brother.

Angel wasn't biologically related but within a short time after Gore's parents fostered the young boy, Gore considered Angel as a sibling. They tussled and played together. Gore watched over his "brother" and when Angel got older, he did the same for Gore. But Angel was anything but an angel and slowly, he turned to hustling drugs.

Gore says he wishes he'd done more to stop him. Eventually, Angel went to prison.

Growing up in Brooklyn, Gore knew that the streets were not kind to people who looked like him, people with Brown or Black skin, and he understood early how privileged he was. He was granted — and sometimes squandered — the best education. In high school, after he was given a chance to "shadow" sports medicine practitioners and after he noticed a lack of Black people in medical careers, he saw his own future. Gore attended Morehouse College, with an eye toward helping Black and Brown people in crisis.

According to the CDC, he says, "homicide … is the number-two cause of death for Black males ages one to nine..." but there are ways to identify issues before they become dangerous, out-of-control problems. The process moves through examination of a person's childhood traumas and what happened to them as adults, followed by listening, validating, and asking for calm. Gore understood this as a young doctor, and he decided to do something about it.

"Lack of funding was a roadblock" for it, he says, "but the seed was planted and my conviction continued to grow."

You're tired of attending funerals, and tired of reading about another dead child somewhere. You're ready to act. You're ready to read "Treating Violence."

Indeed, this book might light a fire under you: author Rob Gore, MD first explains what street violence does to Black communities and families, which is shocking and upsetting. This begins his biography, which is a brief (too-brief!) set-up for how and why Gore ultimately founded KAVI, an organization that uses trained volunteers to lower the anger level and any desires for revenge when someone is the victim of violence. The story is a rousing one, but readers may feel a bit cheated by the rushed transition from Gore's life and his work as an ED doctor, to KAVI. Information on KAVI and similar organizations may spur you to take action. An abrupt stoppage of Gore's personal stories may disappoint you.

Still, with the surgeon general's recent warning on gun use in mind, "Treating Violence" couldn't be more timely or necessary. Find it, read it for the excellent biography and the ideas, statistics and urgency — and get to work.

horoscopes

LIFESTYLE

JULY 11 - 17, 2024

ARIES Early in the week, the stage is set for fantasies galore. You're happy to get swept away by whimsical, wild daydreams that you're content to keep to yourself or share with a lover when the mood is right. Later, you'll be feeling fired up about taking action in your love life and enjoying the company of your significant other or someone else special. Lucky Numbers: 9, 21, 53

TAURUS The desire to break free of your usual grind could be burning in your gut as the week starts. It might be difficult not to daydream about traveling or taking a class to expand your skill set. Later in the week is a brilliant time to set an intention related to beginning a major undertaking with your significant other or business partner. Lucky Numbers: 3, 7, 42

GEMINI When the week begins, the cosmos amplifies an inclination to be playful, flirtatious, and spontaneous with your lover or a potential significant other. Your confidence is on fire, and you feel like you're glowing from the inside out. If you've been dreaming about a certain kind of date night or making a particular fantasy come true, now's your moment. Lucky Numbers: 41, 45, 57

CANCER If you've been dealing with a challenging situation in your relationship, consider having that tough heartto-heart talk at the start of the week. You'll have the clearheadedness and sensitivity to find common ground. Later, diving into a project that allows you to express yourself creatively can feel even more fulfilling. Lucky Numbers: 30, 40, 45

LEO Talking through concerns on the job with your colleagues and higher-ups comes naturally when the week begins. You'll be more willing than usual to take a microscope to challenging issues that arise on a regular basis and to solve problems alongside others. Together, you can land on a solid solution. Lucky Numbers: 1, 15, 34

VIRGO At the week's start, you might be surprised by how assertive and confident you are in all manner of conversations, from those that are professional to others that are intimate and personal. Take advantage of this by pitching that business proposal you've had on the back burner or talking to a romantic partner about the areas of your relationship that could use more reciprocity. Later, the cosmos sends a lightning bolt into the way you tackle cash flow. Lucky Numbers: 7, 31, 33

LIBRA You might be feeling like sharing your most passionate desires in a far more direct way than usual early in the week. You're also more in touch with your feelings and sex drive than usual, so expressing how you feel with a special someone is sure to set off fireworks. Later, you'll be focused on setting bold financial goals. Make sure to do a self-check to ensure that the moneymaking game plans you're considering are in line with your big-picture aspirations. Lucky Numbers: 7, 21, 55

SCORPIO At the beginning of the week, you have the power to make your mark in a major way with others, especially if you're in tune with your self-image. This is also a good time to express yourself openly. If you've been wanting to make the first move toward hitting a long-term professional goal or take your fitness routine up a notch, now is an amazing moment to get started. Later, you could be focused on reinventing yourself in a thrilling way. Lucky Numbers: 11, 14, 22

SAGITTARIUS At the start of the week, you might be feeling like spending more time on your own, plotting out steps related to your professional track or other big-picture dreams. Tuning in to your intuition and trusting it to guide the way will allow you to make the most of this transit. Later, the cosmos bolsters your drive to take the reins on a team project. Lucky Numbers: 3, 6, 35

CAPRICORN At the week's start, spending more time with friends and colleagues can be inspiring and help you make significant progress on your goals. Don't be afraid to lean in to opportunities to turn a solo project into a team one! Later, you might be feeling frustrated with higher-ups who seem to be hell-bent on standing in the way of your goals. Lucky Numbers: 4, 9, 33

AQUARIUS Early in the week, the cosmos bolsters your ability to tackle deep-rooted, psychological topics with your lover or someone else near and dear. Being unafraid to open up with one another can strengthen your bond. Later, you might find yourself strategizing a whole new approach to your big-picture professional aims. This is the time to think about what you really want and what you need to do to own it. Lucky Numbers: 3, 7, 31

PISCES At the beginning of the week, you'll feel like you want more out of life than what your typical day-to-day schedule can offer. You want to see more of the world by traveling or even experience more of what your neighborhood has to offer (think visiting museum exhibits or taking classes at a meditation studio). Any opportunity to expand your mind and learn can have you feeling more fulfilled. Lucky Numbers: 16, 17, 52

SPORTS

Positive Choices Football Camp Celebrates 20 Years

By Ed Hill

WI Contributing Writer

Positive Choices Football Camp, originally started by Aazaar Abdul-Rahim and a group of colleagues, recently marked its 20th anniversary, not only with a celebratory gala, but an exciting partnership.

Held at Deanwood Recreation Complex in Northeast, D.C., more than 350 campers attended Positive Choices to learn skills and techniques

of blocking and tackling from certified coaches and NFL and college players.

This year, the University of Maryland (UMD) football program and its head coach, Mike Locksley volunteered to contribute to the camp.

A product of Ballou Senior High School in Southeast, Locksley is entering his sixth season as UMD’s head coach, where he has led the team to three straight bowl appearances.

"Positive Choices is a win-win situation for the community," Locksley told

The Informer. "Aazaar does a great job of coordinating the camp. To have some of the former campers who are now playing college and professionally shows the grassroots efforts. It is a positive experience. This is the 20th year and that says a lot."

Abdul-Rahim, who played at Dunbar High School in Northwest, is currently associate head coach and co defensive coordinator at the University of Maryland under Locksley.

He is best known for starting the football program at Friendship Collegiate and turning it into a national power that sent over players to college.

In its 20 years, Positive Choices has served close to 5,000 campers including current NFL players Rakeem Jarrett (Tampa Bay Buccaneers), DJ Turner (Las Vegas Raiders) and Eddie Goldman (Atlanta Falcons).

"This is all about relationships," says Abdul-Rahim. "I would say overall that the camp was a success. It is important to have some of the former players who attended the camp in the past 20 years now come back and invest in these

young people in our community."

Positive Choices featured stations where campers rotated to learn some of the most important fundamentals of the sport. Despite the 90-plus degree temperatures, the camp was well organized, and everything moved swiftly and efficiently.

There were almost 70 volunteers who were assigned various duties. Af

ter completing the skills stations, the campers gathered for a group photo shoot and were encouraged to join in acknowledging the sponsors such as the District Department of Recreation, the Executive Office of the Mayor, the Military Bowl and The Museum DC. WI

CAPTURE the moment

District Hosts

Second Annual July 4 Concert

On Thursday, July 4, Mayor Muriel Bowser, the United States Air Force Band, Events DC, the Office of Cable Television, Film, Music, and Entertainment (OCTFME), and the Department of Parks and Recreation (DPR) presented the second annual "Fourth of July in the District Concert.” Hosted by WPGC (95.5 FM) radio personality, Nori Nori, the concert was held in the Freedom Plaza area on Pennsylvania Avenue NW, between 12th and 13th Streets NW.

The family-friendly celebration highlighted the rich, diverse talent in the nation’s capital and included an all-star lineup, featuring platinum selling artist Gavin DeGraw, hip-hop legend Doug E. Fresh, country sensation Reyna Roberts, and internationally known Go-Go band Rare Essence

Rare Essence keeping the crowd grooving during the Independence Day celebration. (Robert R. Roberts/The Washington Informer)

Apostle Minister Sotayo and his son wave the American flag in celebration of the Fourth of July holiday.

(Robert R. Roberts/The Washington

5Country sensation Reyna Roberts performs with The United States Air Force’s premier rock band Max Impact. (Robert R. Roberts/The Washington Informer)

5D.C. Mayor Muriel Bowser and OCTFME Director LaToya Foster. (Robert R. Roberts/The Washington Informer)

4Hip-Hop legend, Doug E. Fresh. (Robert R. Roberts/ The Washington Informer)

5 The crowd dances and jams during the District's Fourth of July concert. (Robert R. Roberts/The Washington Informer)

RELIGION

Leaders Honor Bowie Couple who were Pillars of the Muslim, Local Sierra Leonean Community

By Hamil Harris WI Contributing Writer

Hundreds of people dressed in white as they packed into a Capitol Heights banquet hall on July 7 to celebrate the lives of a Bowie couple who died while on their pilgrimage to Mecca.

Prince George’s Council Executive Angela Alsobooks members of the County Council and leaders from Muslim community were all part of a four-hour tribute to Alhajji Alieu Dausy Wurie,71, and Hajia Isatu Tejan Wurie,65.

“On behalf of the residents of Prince George County I extend my deepest condolences to you all at a time of profound loss,” said Alsobrooks during her comments Sunday.

Gilda Sherrod-Ali was born in Utica, NY on October 23, 1950, to the late Felix Early Sherrod and Thelma (Washington) Sherrod. She was the third of nine children from their union. The family moved to Buffalo, NY when she was five years old. Gilda attended Buffalo, NY Public School and graduated from Grover Cleveland High School in 1968. Growing up in Buffalo, Gilda

ple cry for you?”

The couple’s love story began as teenagers in Freetown, Sierra Leone. They immigrated to the United States where both earned Bachelor's and graduate degrees before they became deeply involved in the community.

“Isatu was a current member of our African Diaspora Board. She also represented service, every event we organized she was number one. also with vaccine initiatives, she was number one there. She served until she passed,” Vincent Iweanogge said in an interview.

“Their loss is not only a significant one to your family but it is a tremendous loss to our entire community.”

Prince George’s County Council Chair Jolene Ivey (D), At-large Councilmember Calvin Hawkins (D), and District 6 Constituent Services Specialist Sonia Staples all spoke in addition to Dr. Lora Hargrave, director of Interfaith Outreach for Maryland Gov. Wes Moore and Dr. Ahmed Hassani-Madani of Kaiser Permanente.

Many speakers and guests emphasized the couple’s commitment to several organizations, community projects and efforts.

The Wurie family were members of the Jamil ul Jali in Lanham and during the service, Alhaji Amara Saccoh asked the audience, “When you die will peo-

Prince George’s County Councilmember Wala Blegay (D-District 6) shared Tejan Wurie’s commitment to the local Sierra Leonean and Muslim communities.

“She opened the door for me to meet many Sierra Leonean leaders. She outlined the concerns that Sierra Leone and the Muslim community had in terms of having their kids in the school system,” Blegay told The Informer.

The couple had waited a long time to perform Hajj, the annual pilgrimage to Mecca, Saudi Arabia (the holiest city for Muslims), a mandatory religious duty Muslims must do once in their lifetimes. This year’s Hajj, from June 14-June 19, was particularly difficult to due to extreme heat.

According to the official Saudi Press Agency (SPA), “the number of mortalities reached 1,301, with 83% being unauthorized to perform hajj and having walked long distances un-

In Memorium

participated in middle and high school athletics and was an avid reader and writer. In high school, Gilda received a Martin Luther King, Jr scholarship and attended Buffalo State College now known as State University of New York (SUNY Buffalo), majoring in education. In college, Gilda became a member of the Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority.

After receiving her bachelor’s degree in education, Gilda pursued her master’s degree in education from Cheyney State University in Pennsylvania. Following graduation, Gilda became a teacher in the Philadelphia Public School System where she taught high school English. Gilda attended Rutger’s University Law School in Camden, NJ and received her Juris Doctorate. Gilda passed the Pennsylvania Bar examination and began practicing law in the city of Philadelphia. While in Philadelphia, Gilda founded her own theatre company called Theatre in the

der direct sunlight, without adequate shelter or comfort.”

But Imam Talib Shareef of Masjid Muhammad in Washington D.C., said that while “Hajj is over now and people are headed back home,” the Saudi government has to seriously address this incident.

“Various things are being said about what caused it, but the bottom line is that we have to do a better job to ensure this never happens again. With the heat index up like that, you would expect more leaning forward by the government to make sure the pilgrims

Living Room where they performed plays in Philadelphia playhouses. Gilda was also a lover of Jazz and often hosted jazz shows in Philadelphia.

Gilda met and married Imani Ali, moved to Washington, D.C. to start a family and establish her career in law as a social justice warrior for Black people of the African Diaspora. She was a solo practitioner specializing in criminal defense law, family law, probate law and civil matters, and at one point was guardian ad litem. As an attorney, Gilda was a servant leader to many causes, including being the Washington DC co-chair of the National Conference of Black Lawyers and being a member of the National Coalition of Blacks for Reparations in America (NCOBRA). An advocate for many social causes, Gilda was often requested by organizations to speak about political prisoners and prisoners of war. Additionally, Gilda worked on the Black

Farmers Settlement Litigation (commonly known as Pigford II) and for freedom of political prisoners (including being on the defense team for Mutulu Shakur). She served as General Counsel and former Board Chair for Roots Public Charter School and Activity Learning Center.

An avid traveler, Gilda traveled all over the world, visiting Africa several times where she collected beautiful art. She also visited Europe, the Caribbean and South America and was sure to share her wonderful adventures with friends and family.

Gilda was committed to the Black Liberation struggle, but family was most important to her. Gilda loved her children and grandchildren, as well as her sisters and brothers, parents, cousins, nieces, and nephews. She hosted an annual Kwanzaa celebration for family and beloved community members at her home and loved to

are taken care of.

"Shareef said traveling to Mecca is one of the five pillars of Islam and he has been several times. However, he still has questions about how safe the trip was because of excessive temperatures. “All Muslims are required to go in their lifetime if they can afford to and if they can,” said Shareef, adding that. “When someone dies over there, special things are said, and the Saudi government will take care of all the arrangements.” WI

A 'Mystic Library' in Anacostia the religion corner

ience, and the power of community.

In this production, viewers will be introduced to six gifted youth playwrights: SuMayah Washington (17), Gibran Glover (16), Beyond Williams (15), Zarianna Marshall (17) and Rainn Kingsbury (15). These young writers have poured their creativity and hard work into crafting this original 10-minute play.

At Children's Legacy Theatre, we are proud to employ top industry professionals who train and mentor our youth, equipping them with the skills needed to produce a remarkable play. From playwriting, stage management and props to set design, lighting, acting, dancing and marketing, our youth gain hands-on experience in every aspect of theater production, preparing them for the spotlight.

"Our work brings a triple benefit," says Jackie Carter, executive director of Children's Legacy Theatre. "We're diversifying and filling the pipeline of employees in the theater industry, broadening horizons for youth who might otherwise pursue detrimental paths, and influencing behaviors that lead to the development of upstanding citizens for our communities."

Children's Legacy Theatre is more than an alternative to teen violence.

We provide employment opportunities that prevent unnecessary crime and teen pregnancy, emphasizing the pillars of teamwork, responsibility, appearance, punctuality and leadership.

Through their CLT experience, community youth emerge as new

leaders, ready to make positive impacts in their communities.

"I see great potential in all my fellow writers. Everyone is extremely talented," says playwright Zarianna Marshall.

"Mystic Library" will be performed at Matthews Memorial Baptist Church, located in D.C. at 2616 Martin Luther King Jr. Ave. SE. Performances begin at 6:30 p.m. on Aug. 1 and 2.

For more information, go to their website at www.childrenslegacytheatre8. org or call 202-710-7819.

At Children's Legacy Theatre, we are proud to employ

top industry professionals who train and mentor our youth, equipping them with the skills needed to produce a remarkable play.

MCCOLLUM & ASSOCIATES, LLC

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

RELIGION

Church with a past to remember

and a future to mold” www.mtzbcdc.org

Bottom - Founded in 1867 728 23rd Street, NW - Washington, DC 20037 Church office: 202-333-3985 Fax : 202-338-4958

Service and Times Sundays: 10 a.m. Holy Eucharist with Music and Hymns Wednesdays: 12:10 p.m. - Holy Eucharist www.stmarysfoggybottom.org Email: stmarysoffice@stmarysfoggybottom.org

Rev Kevin A. O'Bryant Pastor

401 Van Buren St., NW, Washington D.C. 20012 Office (202)-882-8331

Service and Times Sunday Worship 10:30 am Zoom: zoom.us/;/2028828331

Bible Study: Wednesday 7:00pm Communion Every First Sunday "Serve, teach and Live by precept and example the saving grace of Jesus Christ."

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

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

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

Mt. Horeb Baptist Church

Rehoboth Baptist Church

First Rising Mt. Zion Baptist Church

Historic St. Mary’s Episcopal Church

Promised Land Baptist Church

SUPERIOR COURT OF THE DISTRICT OF COLUMBIA

Probate Division Washington, D.C. 20001-2131

2024 ADM 706

Catherine Grayton Lee Decedent

C. Hope Brown Johnson, Esq. 1319 F Street, NW Suite 600 Washington, DC 20004

Attorney

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

Anthony M. Grayton, whose address is 5075 Breezewood Ct., Indian Head, Maryland 20640, was appointed Personal Representative of the estate of Catherine Grayton Lee who died on February 3, 2020 without a Will and will serve without Court supervision. All unknown heirs and heirs whose whereabouts are unknown shall enter their appearance in this proceeding. Objections to such appointment (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 12/27/2024. Claims against the decedent shall be presented to the undersigned with a copy to the Register of Wills or filed with the Register of Wills with a copy to the undersigned, on or before 12/27/2024, or be forever barred. Persons believed to be heirs or legatees of the decedent who do not receive a copy of this notice by mail within 25 days of its first publication shall so inform the Register of Wills, including name, address, and relationship.

Date of first publication: 6/27/2024

Catherine Grayton Lee Personal Representative

TRUE TEST COPY

Nicole Stevens Register of Wills

Washington Informer

SUPERIOR COURT OF THE DISTRICT OF COLUMBIA Probate Division Washington, D.C. 20001-2131 2023 ADM 001085

William F. Hill Jr. Decedent

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

Ciara Hosein, whose address is 202 Joellyn Court, Fort Washington, MD 20744, was appointed Personal Representative of the estate of William F. Hill Jr. who died on 2/14/2022 without a Will and will serve without Court supervision. All unknown heirs and heirs whose whereabouts are unknown shall enter their appearance in this proceeding. Objections to such appointment (or to the probate of decedent’s Will) shall be filed with the Register of Wills, D.C., 515 5th Street, N.W., Building A, Third Floor Washington, D.C. 20001, on or before 12/27/2024. Claims against the decedent shall be presented to the undersigned with a copy to the Register of Wills or filed with the Register of Wills with a copy to the undersigned, on or before 12/27/2024, or be forever barred. Persons believed to be heirs or legatees of the decedent who do not receive a copy of this notice by mail within 25 days of its first publication shall so inform the Register of Wills, including name, address, and relationship.

Date of first publication: 6/27/2024

Ciara Hosein 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 710

Lestina Amanda Crawford Decedent

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

Tiffany Crawford Fells, whose address is 8653 Chatsfield Way, Hyattsville, MD 20785, was appointed Personal Representative of the estate of Lestina Amanda Crawford who died on 5/3/2024 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 12/27/2024. Claims against the decedent shall be presented to the undersigned with a copy to the Register of Wills or filed with the Register of Wills with a copy to the undersigned, on or before 12/27/2024, or be forever barred. Persons believed to be heirs or legatees of the decedent who do not receive a copy of this notice by mail within 25 days of its first publication shall so inform the Register of Wills, including name, address, and relationship.

Date of first publication: 6/27/2024

Tiffany Crawford Fells Personal Representative

TRUE TEST COPY

Nicole Stevens Register of Wills Washington Informer

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

2023 ADM 001462

Doris B. Lowrie aka Doris Lowrie Decedent

Glenda M. Wheeler Allen, Esq. Law Office Glenda M. Wheeler 800 E Street, NE, Suite A Washington, DC 20002 Attorney

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

Adriane Lowrie and Theodore R. Lowrie, III, whose addresses are 16 Knox Cir., SE, Washington, DC 20020 & 2508 Hurston Ln., NE, Unit #K, Washington, DC 20018, were appointed Personal Representatives of the estate of Doris B. Lowrie aka Doris Lowrie who died on August 23, 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 12/27/2024. Claims against the decedent shall be presented to the undersigned with a copy to the Register of Wills or filed with the Register of Wills with a copy to the undersigned, on or before 12/27/2024, or be forever barred. Persons believed to be heirs or legatees of the decedent who do not receive a copy of this notice by mail within 25 days of its first publication shall so inform the Register of Wills, including name, address, and relationship.

Date of first publication: 6/27/2024

Adriane Lowrie

Theodore R. Lowrie, III 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 722

Irene E. Goodman aka Irene Elizabeth Goodman Decedent

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

Kim Roxanne Fridie, whose address is 10165 Dorsey Lane, Lanham, MD 20706, was appointed Personal Representative of the estate of Irene E. Goodman aka Irene Elizabeth Goodman who died on May 21, 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 12/27/2024. Claims against the decedent shall be presented to the undersigned with a copy to the Register of Wills or filed with the Register of Wills with a copy to the undersigned, on or before 12/27/2024, or be forever barred. Persons believed to be heirs or legatees of the decedent who do not receive a copy of this notice by mail within 25 days of its first publication shall so inform the Register of Wills, including name, address, and relationship.

Date of first publication: 6/27/2024

Kim Roxanne Fridie 10165 Dorsey Lane, Lanham, MD 20706 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 000739

Andrew Burnett aka Andrew S. Burnett Decedent

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

Charles A. Roessler, whose address is 4000 Cathedral Ave., NW, Apt 211B, Washington, DC 20016, was appointed Personal Representative of the estate of Andrew Burnett aka Andrew S. Burnett who died on October 11, 2023 with a Will and will serve without Court supervision. All unknown heirs and heirs whose whereabouts are unknown shall enter their appearance in this proceeding. Objections to such appointment (or to the probate of decedent’s Will) shall be filed with the Register of Wills, D.C., 515 5th Street, N.W., Building A, Third Floor Washington, D.C. 20001, on or before 12/27/2024. Claims against the decedent shall be presented to the undersigned with a copy to the Register of Wills or filed with the Register of Wills with a copy to the undersigned, on or before 12/27/2024, or be forever barred. Persons believed to be heirs or legatees of the decedent who do not receive a copy of this notice by mail within 25 days of its first publication shall so inform the Register of Wills, including name, address, and relationship.

Date of first publication: 6/27/2024

Charles A. Roessler

Personal Representative

TRUE TEST COPY

Nicole Stevens Register of Wills

Washington Informer

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

2023 ADM 000477

Estate of E. N Ade aka Esau N. Ade aka Esau Nji Ade

NOTICE OF STANDARD PROBATE

Notice is hereby given that a petition has been filed in this Court by Roseline Oniya for standard probate, including the appointment of one or more personal representatives. Unless a responsive pleading in the form of a complaint or an objection in accordance with Superior Court Probate Division Rule 407 is filed in this Court within 30 days from the date of first publication of this notice, the Court may take the action hereinafter set forth.

Order any interested person to show cause why the provision of the lost or destroyed will dated June 12, 2013 should not be admitted to probate as expressed in the petition Appoint an unsupervised personal representative

Date of first publication: 6/27/2024

Sharon Legall, Esq. 1325 G Street, NW Suite 500 Washington, DC 20005

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 FEP 000065

12/21/2017

Date of Death

Ingrid J. Ollivierre-Smith Name of Decedent

NOTICE OF APPOINTMENT OF FOREIGN PERSONAL REPRESENTATIVE AND NOTICE TO CREDITORS

Jasmine Ollivierre whose address is 2638 Rhode Island Avenue, NE, Washington, DC 20018 was appointed personal representative of the estate of Ingrid J. Ollivierre-Smith, deceased, by the Maryland Court for Prince Georges County, State of Maryland, on 10/1/19.

Service of process may be made upon Jasmine Ollivierre, 2638 Rhode Island Avenue, NE, Washington, DC 20018 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: 2638 Rhode Island Avenue, 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: 6/27/2024

Jasmine Ollivierre

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 000720

Josephine Catherine Guy Decedent

Tina S. 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

Joann B. Johnson, whose address is 5102 Just Street NE, Washington, DC 20019, was appointed Personal Representative of the estate of Josephine Catherine Guy who died on January 16, 2020 without a Will and will serve without Court supervision. All unknown heirs and heirs whose whereabouts are unknown shall enter their appearance in this proceeding. Objections to such appointment shall be filed with the Register of Wills, D.C., 515 5th Street, N.W., Building A, Third Floor Washington, D.C. 20001, on or before 12/27/2024. Claims against the decedent shall be presented to the undersigned with a copy to the Register of Wills or filed with the Register of Wills with a copy to the undersigned, on or before 12/27/2024, or be forever barred. Persons believed to be heirs or legatees of the decedent who do not receive a copy of this notice by mail within 25 days of its first publication shall so inform the Register of Wills, including name, address, and relationship.

Date of first publication: 6/27/2024

Joann B. Johnson 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 000752

Ruth C. Smith aka Ruth Camp Smith Decedent

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

Henry Nash, whose address is 919 South Belgrade Road, Silver Spring, MD 20902, was appointed Personal Representative of the estate of Ruth C. Smith aka Ruth Camp Smith who died on November 1, 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 12/27/2024. Claims against the decedent shall be presented to the undersigned with a copy to the Register of Wills or filed with the Register of Wills with a copy to the undersigned, on or before 12/27/2024, or be forever barred. Persons believed to be heirs or legatees of the decedent who do not receive a copy of this notice by mail within 25 days of its first publication shall so inform the Register of Wills, including name, address, and relationship.

Date of first publication: 6/27/2024

Henry Nash

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 000723

Trinidad E. Lopez Decedent

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

Benito Lopez, whose address is 1805 19th Street NW, Washington, DC 20009, was appointed Personal Representative of the estate of Trinidad E. Lopez who died on October 21, 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 12/27/2024. Claims against the decedent shall be presented to the undersigned with a copy to the Register of Wills or filed with the Register of Wills with a copy to the undersigned, on or before 12/27/2024, or be forever barred. Persons believed to be heirs or legatees of the decedent who do not receive a copy of this notice by mail within 25 days of its first publication shall so inform the Register of Wills, including name, address, and relationship.

Date of first publication:

6/27/2024

Benito Lopez 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 00751

Doris C. Bagley Decedent

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

Alberta D. Bagley-Green, whose address is 14 W Bartlette Street Apt. 109, Sumter, SC 29150, was appointed Personal Representative of the estate of Doris C. Bagley who died on April 25, 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 1/11/2025. 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 1/11/2025, 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: 7/11/2024

Alberta D. Bagley-Green Personal Representative

TRUE TEST COPY

Nicole Stevens Register of Wills Washington Informer

Phase 2 Declaration of Nationality Protocol

In God We Trust. Declaration of Nationality. Notice of White Flag Surrender. Notice of Special Appearance: I am that I am: "Babafunke Ajamu©/ Wendall Carl Goins©“, in full life, in propria persona, sui juris, in solo proprio, Haqdar by natural issue, the beneficiary and heir of: “BABAFUNKE AJAMU/WENDALL CARL GOINS", corp.sole Dba.: "BABAFUNKE AJAMU© WENDALL C GOINS©", Wendall C Goins, Goins, Wendall C; GOINS, WENDALL C; GOINS, WENDELL C; WENDELL CARL GOINS, AJAMU, BABAFUNKE; BABAFUNKE AJAMU EL, Babafunke Ajamu El, OLOYE ABIODUN, Oloye Abiodun, Akili Tarishi, AKILI TARISHI having reached the age of majority, being aboriginal to the northwestern and southwestern shores of Africa, the Atlantic Islands, the continental Americas, being duly certified, hereby affirms to declare my tribal intention to be as my pedigree subscribes, as an: American Moor, but not a citizen of the United States. declare permanent, and unalienable, allegiance to The Moorish Empire, Al Maghreb Al Aqsa, Estados al Marikanos, Societas Republicae Ea Al Maurikanuus Estados, The Constitution for the united States of America, Article III Section 2, The Lieber Code, Hague Conventions of 1899 & 1907, The Geneva Conventions, [ United Nations Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples ], and all natural laws governing moors, and hereby declare and proclaim my nationality in good faith as an: American Moor. I am that I am: "Babafunke Ajamu©/Wendall Carl Goins©", from this day forward, in harmony with my Nationality / Status / Jurisdiction, shall be known as: " babafunke uasua ajamu © ". Notice of White Flag Surrender: as "hors de combat", pursuant to The Geneva Conventions, Article III, as a minister of The Moorish Empire, and Internationally Protected Person. Notice of: LAWS AND CUSTOMS OF WAR ON LAND HAGUE, IV), ARTICLE: 32, 45, 46, & 47. Notice of Claim pursuant to Public Law 87-846, TITLE II, SEC. 203. Notice of Bailment Merging of Legal Title with Equitable Title: This order is to preserve legal and equitable title , and to reserve all rights, title, and interest, in the property, Re: Commonwealth of Pennsylvania – Department of Health: STATE FILE NUMBER, 0176030-1949 " WENDALL CARL GOINS©”, is as a special deposit order, conveyed to "Vitality Trust©". All property of the same issue and amount, in like kind and specie, is to be returned fully intact, as a Special Deposit order of the Depositor / Beneficiary / Bailor / Donor / Principal / Creditor: " babafunke uasua ajamu © ", nom deguerre:"Babafunke Ajamu©/Wendall Carl Goins© ", as a special deposit order in lawful money. This special deposit is to be used exclusively for the benefit of: " Vitality Trust© “, an Inter Vivos Unincorporated Divine Grantor Trust. This deposit is not to be commingled with general assets of any bank, nor depositary / trustee / agent / bailee / donee / debtor. This deposit is not limited to, but including: discharge and set off, of any and all outstanding liabilities as accord and satisfaction. Inter alia enact fuit. All Rights Reserved. Deo volente.

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

2024 ADM 000761

Thomas A. Jeffries aka Thomas Allen Jeffries Decedent

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

Jennifer Jeffries Weeks, whose address is 31 Shelton Ct., Indian Head, MD 20640, was appointed Personal Representative of the estate of Thomas A. Jeffries aka Thomas Allen Jeffries who died on May 27, 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 1/11/2025. 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 1/11/2025, 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: 7/11/2024

Jennifer Jeffries Weeks

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 000746

Theodore G. Davis aka Theodore Glenn Davis

Decedent

Howard Halley, Esq. The Halley Firm, PC 7600 Georgia Ave., NW #416 Washington, DC 20012

Attorney

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

Monca Lorraine Parker, whose address is 5065 Janet Lane, Irondale, AL 35210, was appointed Personal Representative of the estate of Theodore G. Davis aka Theodore Glen Davis who died on November 21, 2023 with a Will, and will serve without Court supervision. All unknown heirs and heirs whose whereabouts are unknown shall enter their appearance in this proceeding. Objections to such appointment (or to the probate of decedent’s Will) shall be filed with the Register of Wills, D.C., 515 5th Street, N.W., Building A, Third Floor Washington, D.C. 20001, on or before 1/11/2025. 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 1/11/2025, 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: 7/11/2024

Monica Lorraine Parker Personal Representative

TRUE TEST COPY

Nicole Stevens Register of Wills

Washington Informer

SUPERIOR COURT OF THE DISTRICT OF COLUMBIA

PROBATE DIVISION

2024 NRT 000028

Walter P. Diggs

Name of Deceased Settlor

NOTICE OF EXISTENCE OF REVOCABLE TRUST

Walter P. Diggs whose address was 6928 33rd Street, NW, Washington, DC 20015 created a revocable trust on July 20, 1999, which remained in existence on the date of death on February 11, 2024, and Thelma G. Diggs & Sheila Diggs Utts, whose addresses are 6928 33rd Street, NW, Washington, DC 20015 & 2210 Predella Drive, Silver Spring, MD 20902, are the currently acting trustees, hereinafter the Trustee. Communications to the Trust should be mailed or directed to Andre O. McDonald, Esq. at 10500 Little Patuxent Parkway, Suite 420, Columbia, MD 21044 (413) 741-1088.

The Trust is subject to claims of the deceased settlor’s creditors, costs of administration of the settlor’s estate, the expense of the deceased settlor’s funeral and disposal of remains, and statutory allowances to a surviving spouse and children to the extent the deceased settlor’s residuary probate estate is inadequate to satisfy those claims, costs, expenses, and allowances.

Claims of the deceased settlor’s creditors are barred as against the Trustee and the trust property unless presented to the Trustee at the address provided herein on or before 1/11/2025 (6 month after the date of the first publication of this notice.) An action to contest the validity of this trust must be commenced by the earliest of (1) 2/11/2025, (One year from date of death of deceased settlor) (2), 1/11/2025 (6 months from the date of first publication of this notice) or (3) Ninety days after the Trustee sends the person a copy of the trust instrument and a notice informing the person of the trust’s existence, of the Trustee’s name and address, and of the time allowed for commencing a proceeding.

The Trustee may proceed to distribute the trust property in accordance with the terms of the trust before the expiration of the time within which an action must be commenced unless the Trustee knows of a pending judicial proceeding contesting the validity of the trust or the Trustee has received notice from a potential contestant who thereafter commences a judicial proceeding within sixty days after notification.

This Notice must be mailed postmarked within 15 days of its first publication to each heir and qualified beneficiary of the trust and any other person who would be an interested person within the meaning of D.C. Code 20-101(d).

Date of First Publication: 7/11/2024

Thelma G. Diggs

Sheila Diggs Utts

Signature of Trustee

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 000731

Garlandria A. Draper Decedent

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

Dionne D. Draper, whose address is 1024 Spring Road, NW, Washington, DC 20010, was appointed Personal Representative of the estate of Garlandria A. Draper who died on 12/26/2023 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 1/11/2025. 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 1/11/2025, 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: 7/11/2024

Dionne D. Draper 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 000774

Clarence L. Miller aka Clarence Miller Decedent

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

Anita Murray, whose address is 9704 Starboard Court, Cheltenham MD, 20623, was appointed Personal Representative of the estate of Clarence L. Miller aka Clarence Miller who died on 4/3/2024 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 1/11/2025. 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 1/11/2025, 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: 7/11/2024

Anita Murray

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 000744

Mary Catherine Patalkis Decedent

Debra Patalkis 1015 33rd St., NW Washington, DC 20007 Attorney

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

Debra Mary Patalkis, whose address is 1015 33rd St., NW, Apt 706, Washington, DC 20007, was appointed Personal Representative of the estate of Mary Catherine Patalkis who died on March 23, 2024 with a Will, and will serve without Court supervision. All unknown heirs and heirs whose whereabouts are unknown shall enter their appearance in this proceeding. Objections to such appointment (or to the probate of decedent’s Will) shall be filed with the Register of Wills, D.C., 515 5th Street, N.W., Building A, Third Floor Washington, D.C. 20001, on or before 1/11/2025. 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 1/11/2025, 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: 7/11/2024

Debra Mary Patalkis 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 000772

John Carter Decedent

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

Karin H Saffold, whose address is 42949 Shelbourne Sq., Chantilly, VA 20152, was appointed Personal Representative of the estate of John Carter who died on March 30, 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 1/11/2025. 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 1/11/2025, 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: 7/11/2024

Karin H Saffold Personal Representative

TRUE TEST COPY

Nicole Stevens Register of Wills

Washington Informer

LEGAL NOTICES

SUPERIOR COURT OF THE DISTRICT OF COLUMBIA

Probate Division Washington, D.C. 20001-2131

2024 ADM 000825

Estate of Massie S. Fleming aka Massie Fleming

NOTICE OF STANDARD PROBATE

Notice is hereby given that a petition has been filed in this Court by Michelle Gordon “nee” Mitchell 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.

Admit to probate the will dated June 27, 2013 exhibited with the petition upon proof satisfactory to the Court of due execution by affidavit of the witnesses or otherwise

Date of first publication: 7/11/2024

Ronald Dixon 1010 Cameron Street Alexandria, VA 22314

Petitioner/Attorney:

TRUE TEST COPY

Nicole Stevens Register of Wills

Washington Informer

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Reader Advisory: The National Trade Association we belong to has purchased the following classifieds. Determining the value of their service or product is advised by this publication. In order to avoid misunderstandings, some advertisers do not offer employment but rather supply the readers with manuals, directories and other materials designed to help their clients establish mail order selling and other businesses at home. Under NO circumstance should you send any money in advance or give the client your checking, license ID, or credit card numbers. Also beware of ads that claim to guarantee loans regardless of credit and note that if a credit repair company does business only over the phone it s illegal to request any money before delivering its service. All funds are based in US dollars. 800 numbers may or may not reach Canada.

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SUPERIOR COURT OF THE DISTRICT OF COLUMBIA

Probate Division Washington, D.C. 20001-2131

2024 ADM 000050

Marjorie M. Keys Decedent

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

Marbury D. Keys III, whose address is 314 Rhode Island Ave. NE, Washington, DC 20002, was appointed Personal Representative of the estate of Marjorie M. Keys who died on January 13, 2023 with a Will and will serve without Court supervision. All unknown heirs and heirs whose whereabouts are unknown shall enter their appearance in this proceeding. Objections to such appointment (or to the probate of decedent’s Will) shall be filed with the Register of Wills, D.C., 515 5th Street, N.W., Building A, Third Floor Washington, D.C. 20001, on or before 1/11/2025. 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 1/11/2025, 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: 7/11/2024

Marbury D. Keys III Personal Representative

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MALVEAUX from Page 30 clad in business suits and her trademark matching hats. I wonder what she would say about President Biden and the chatter about his age. I'm sure she would point out that age never slowed her down (though it slowed some of her younger aides).

limited energy. But he can counter all the chatter by just talking to the people. Town halls, church visits, appearances at any of the innumerable outdoor events that a synonymous with summer.

Vice President Kamala Harris has been "out there" doing her usual superlative job at the Essence Festival in New Orleans and in other places. Congresswoman Maxine Waters (D-CA) showed out too, noting that at 85, she is older than the president. All this focus on age makes me think of Dr. Dorothy Irene Height, who was 98 when she made her transition. Until nearly the end, she went to the National Council of Negro Women office daily, fashionably

MARSHALL from Page 30

for "official acts" while in office, it changed everything.

Justice Sonia Sotomayor explained, with its decision in the immunity case, the court's majority "makes a mockery of the principle, foundational to our Constitution and system of government that no man is above the law."

Sotomayor continued, "The relationship between the President and the people he serves has shifted irrevocably. In every use of official power, the President is now a king above the law."

Sotomayor's sad and alarming assessment is compounded by former Justice Department officials who served under Donald Trump during his first term. Two former Justice Department officials, who spoke on the condition of anonymity, said the ruling would embolden Trump. They said it would give him cover to improperly pressure the Justice Department for his own political benefit — to prosecute an enemy or go easy on an ally — by saying he was executing his official duties as

MEYERS from Page 30

the change that led to the signing of the Civil Rights Act of 1964.

Earlier this year, the DC Commission on the Arts and Humanities paid homage to this momentous occasion with the exhibition, "Legacy: Civil Rights at 60," which featured the work of local DMV visual artists. These artists submitted their interpretations of what the signing of the Civil Rights Act of 1964 meant to them today and how the landmark legislation influenced their pieces. Included in the exhibition were District artist Roderick Turner's "Re-

President Biden is the only one who can remove himself from the top of the ticket, and he does not seem inclined to do so. But he cannot continue as he is, fending off countless attacks about his age. But he can certainly counter the attacks by talking to the people — not just the media, not just his wife and son.

President Biden must also focus on Project 2025, the Trump plan to limit our rights and to take over government. The former president says he does not know anything about

president. "It gives him tacit approval to keep doing it," said a former official when referring to the Supreme Court ruling. "It sets him up to do the things he has said: to investigate people and send them to jail."

The damage is done. The former president is totally insulated from criminal prosecution. The court has essentially opened the door for Donald Trump to return to the White House and become the authoritarian dictator he always wanted to be. When a more powerful Trump speaks of terminating the Constitution to overturn the 2020 election, we should believe that he will make all efforts to undermine the rights protected under the Constitution. We should believe him when he says he will call for a televised military tribunal for former Republican Rep. Liz Cheney and the jailing of top elected officials, including President Joe Biden and Vice President Kamala Harris. He should be believed when he speaks of using the Justice Department as a weapon to go after political opponents, including members of his

membering the Dream #2," which depicts Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. sitting, reading a myriad of books and newspapers. Another was Denise Wright's, "Little Girl at Civil Rights Rally." A photograph of a child leaning on the podium where the speeches were given during the most recent March on Washington. Also included in the exhibition was Cooper Joslin's "T is Terrific," his way of informing us that LGBTQI rights are also civil rights, and Paula Stern's bust of former South African President and anti-apartheid activist Nelson Mandela. Therefore, I ask that everyone

the destructive Project 2025, but many of his closest allies contributed to the 900-page attack on decency and government that was organized by the Heritage Foundation. The 45th president can say anything he wants, but his fingerprints are all over the putrid document. President Biden must focus on Trump's plans to run our government, and the immunity the Supreme Court has given him in a recent decision.

President Biden, you have often described yourself as a man of the people. So talk to the people. Listen to them. There are millions of lowwage workers who may not vote for you unless you work for it. Get to work, Brother President, get to work!

own Republican Party. When Grant's administration created the Justice Department, it was not intended to persecute true patriots like himself, who fought for the freedom of all American citizens. It was never intended for a U.S. president to directly interfere with the functioning of the Justice Department through public attacks or intimidation of its prosecutors.

The dividing line Grant spoke about concerning our national existence is even clearer now. On one side of the line are those having the patriotism and intelligence to passionately oppose a convicted felon who will abuse his power to the detriment of the people and nation. On the other side, it's the opposite: Those with hypocrisy, ambition, and ignorance who passionately support a convicted felon to be a future dictator. This fight is our new Revolutionary War. The only ones who can stop King Donald I from power are the uncommitted, apathetic, and uninformed citizens who must decide which side of the line they will cross. WI

please not disregard the many contributions to civil rights made by artists past and present. They are the keepers of the notes, and the stories. They are the documentarians. They are the individuals responsible for the images that showed authorities attacking peaceful protesters with fire hoses and police dogs. It was those very images seen around the world that were an impetus for the signing of the Civil Rights Act of 1964. These are the images of America's creatives. These are the images of the artists.

View the "Legacy: Civil Rights at 60" virtual gallery at DCarts.dc.gov/ page/legacy-civilrights-60. WI

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NELSON from Page 31

According to the Department of Justice's Office of Information Policy (OIP), which encourages and oversees agency compliance, "demand for FOIA reached another record high in FY 2023, surpassing 1.1 million requests received and reflecting a 30% increase compared to FY 2022. In the face of this demand, agencies processed a record high of 1,122,166" FOIA requests.

"FOIA is still a weapon for public information about what its government is up to. Except for an 18th-century Swedish law and a similar information law in Finland in 1951, FOIA was the first open government law in the world," said Lemov. "Moss fought for 12 years, against three presidents and at times his own

EDELMAN from Page 31

Where greed no longer saps the soul

Nor avarice blights our day.

A world I dream where black or white, Whatever race you be, Will share the bounties of the earth

And every man is free, Where wretchedness will hang its head

And joy, like a pearl, Attends the needs of all mankind— Of such I dream, my world!

He closed by saying, "Celebrate life. Dream and labor. For Atlanta and Los

JEALOUS from Page 31

lungs." These forests are particularly carbon-dense, because of all the carbon their trees pull out of the atmosphere. Therefore when these forests burn, the fires release significant amounts of carbon dioxide, which in turn creates more warming. And that in turn creates more fires.

Moreover, while the underlying conditions for longer fire seasons and more intense blazes are supercharged by global warming, new research shows that hotter temperatures are themselves likely causing fires to start. We have known that fires continue to smolder under the snowpack in our Arctic forests as so-called "zombie fires." Then, when the weather warms, if there is ample vegetation for those fires to consume, they can essentially rise from the ashes of last year's fire with new life. But new research indicates it could be the heat itself that is lighting the new fires and increasing the prevalence of zombie fires.

The soils of North America's Arctic and boreal forests are rich in peat.

party, for a freedom of information law that has stood the test of time and been copied around the world."

Lemov said Freedom of information laws allow access to government information in well over 100 countries. The United Nations has even set aside a day globally — the International Day for Universal Access to Information (IDUAI) — held every 28th day of September. The UN wholeheartedly agrees that "universal access to information means that everyone has the right to seek, receive and impart information. This right is an integral part of the right to freedom of expression."

If the recent presidential debate is any indication, FOIA is and will be an important human right that will be exercised repeatedly before, during and after the upcoming election.

Angeles and the United States and a world. That is to celebrate the spirit and the heart and the mind and soul of John Lewis, and to walk with him through the galaxies, seeking equality, liberty, justice and the beloved community fo all."

Dream and labor. During a July Fourth holiday this year when many Americans were thinking deeply about our nation's founding principles and how they will be protected and carried forward, Rev. Lawson's words about John Lewis' legacy are now his lega-

Rapid increases in temperature above ground can cause peat-rich soils to heat up to smoldering temperatures underground, without any other spark or ignition. Add forest fires started by spontaneous combustion to the list of the impacts of climate change.

So, what can we do? For one, we need to break our fossil fuel addiction immediately. The cycle of wildfires, carbon release, and atmospheric warming described above can only be broken if we stop pushing the problem along by continuing to burn fossil fuels.

The other thing we can do is protect our trees and plant more of them. Old growth forests are especially important because they are more fire resistant and absorb and store more carbon than their younger counterparts. And those forests have a well-developed understory — the layer of vegetation between the ground and the upper forest canopy. Many understory plants are perennials that come back after a fire.

That means the initiatives from the Biden-Harris administration to pro-

One could say it is truly earning its moniker as the "indispensable tool."

But Moss and Lemov would be the first to admit that FOIA remains a work in progress. Improvements are needed. Case in point, FOIA only applies to federal agencies and not Congress, the courts, or state or local governments. Also, FOIA contains nine exemptions that include national security and internal government discussions. These remain major barriers to obtaining government files.

As Lemov would often say, "The fight for truth and information is not over. My mentor Moss taught me the fight is never over."

May all Americans remember what both Moss and Lemov stood for as we never allow the fight for truth and information to never be over.

cy too. We need the Constitution to come alive. We need it to be a self-evident truth that every child and young person in our nation deserves access to the tree of life. We need to keep fighting against the forces sowing division and systematically working to dismantle progress towards equality and justice for all. We need the beloved community and the new world we have long dreamed of and the country our founding ideals promised, and we need to keep laboring to get there.

tect old growth forests and to plant trees in American cities are critical. The most obvious start is preserving mature and old-growth forests and trees on federal lands from being cut. And the $1.5 billion investment in urban forestry by this administration is another great step. Expanding urban tree canopies directly benefits communities with the addition of much-needed shade and green space. And with 84% of Americans living in or just outside cities, that is important. We should be planting trees in every community.

As we work to slow the warming and increase protections for trees and forests, if you live in a place with fires or fire smoke, take care, and stay inside when needed. If you live somewhere with an acute risk of fire or post-fire flooding, consider taking precautions like having an emergency plan and packing a go-bag.

This is our new normal, but we do not need to just accept it. The solutions are right in front of us. We just need to find the will to reach for them.